#this actually brought me some joy this morning when i woke up

[iguessitsjustme]

urm sorry i called you rel it was a typo! (rae my beloved)

You’re all good! I actually lowkey like Rel as a name. Its solid. If I hadn’t already decided to go by Rae here, I would like Rel lol. It’s much better than the last name someone accidentally called me which I can’t say without giving away my irl name alas. But just know I put up with being called this name on and off for about a year by my manager at a Dairy Queen I was working at. It was very much a “if I tell them I hate it, it will get worse” type of thing.

But Rel is good. I don’t mind being called Rel. I actually don’t really mind being called anything at all. As long as it’s not malicious, I do not care. I appreciate the apology for it though. But the typo made me laugh a whole lot. I hope you have a great day :)

[ellequarius]

How I Manifested $50k USD

Hi!!! I'm gonna tell you guys how i manifested $50,000 for my dad. So basically my dad had a bunch of credit card debt because he wasn't getting paid very well at his job. This had been going on for a couple months and he had racked up at least $7,000 on his credit card. He brought it up a lot and we'd have to start budgeting and stuff. Anyways a few days ago i wanted my hair done and my dad said we couldn't afford it. This deeply annoyed me for like two days but then i was like "wait, I could just manifest him some money." I've never really manifested large amounts of money like this purely because of limiting beliefs that i've had. Anyways i picked the first number that came into mind, $50k. I was in class at the time and was bored out of my mind and i was just like "fuck it." So i affirmed 3 times that my dad has received 50k and went on about my day, i affirmed any chance i remembered too and i think on the 3rd or 2nd day I woke up one morning and i heard my dad cheering and practically jumping for joy. Now mind you it was like 5am and i had only gotten like 5 hours of sleep (it was midterms week) and I was a little tired and i wondered why he was so happy and i thought to myself "oh must be the money i manifested him". Since then there's been no mention of the credit card debt, and when i asked him to bring me to get my hair done he said yes with no other comments! (im actually getting my hair done as i write this!) I saw his Bank of america transactions and that he received the exact amount that i affirmed for! Now idk if taxes is gonna take some of that money away but I am very proud of myself.

Sorry if this post was really long, I haven't posted on this blog for awhile but i promise i will be more active!! I also listened to adambjas "I am in control" tape a lot and this one https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yeGwSoOmOt4fUIG-wAzXJSBOcCoTLQvd/view?pli=1 , which I think helped a lot.

I ALSO FORGOT TO MENTION that i deleted tumblr off my phone cause i was overconsuming info and i was just getting stressed tf out. I think deleting tumblr was the last push i really needed.

[mamirhodessxox]

Daddy Dearest <3

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Girl dad!Leon x Mom!Reader

Blue for Leon pink for reader & purple for D/N

Desc: Despite his career path Leon has been developing pretty well to his girl dad life & revolves entirely around world around his wife & sweet little angel babygirl

Tags: Tooth Aching fluff, Dilf Leon, No smut ‼️‼️‼️, Just dad Leon living his dream! No use of y/n, D/n stands for Daughters Name

I'm very serious with you guys interacting with my writing!!!! it would make me so happy & excited, the more comments & reposts the more inspiration i have to write :) Votes and comments are strongly appreciated!!!

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Leon Loving his life was an understatement, He was a miserable guy not so long ago but it all changed once he met you & had his very first child! Of course after first he was worried about being a deadbeat father, but eventually he suited up and prepared for everything was to come, dropped his drinking habits, went to therapy for most of his trauma from working on the most messed up cases world wide known to mankind & even baby proofing the entire house you two shared for over 4 years.

He even went out of his way to take random target trips with you during your pregnancy to stare at nursery furniture and random trinkets and toys he found, holding up gender neutral baby clothing before knowing the gender & asking “you think this is cute sweetheart?” It was amazing how he became so obsessed with the thought of having his own little family with a white piket fence & beautiful front lawn garden (He started gardening as a coping mechanism which would soon be one of his top hobbies he brought onto his daughter.)

During the gender reveal he was nothing but pure excitement and joy to have a little baby girl that the next day he even went back to target and came home to baby-proof the entire house, testing objects to see if they would fall on a random baby doll etc, so much so that you had to go downstairs at 12 am and force him to take a break and come to bed, “You don’t think she’ll hit her head on the table one day right? I really wouldn’t want my little princess to get hurt” “I think you need to put down the baby proofing tools for the night & actually come to bed hun, it’s almost 1 o’clock”

Some days you would be in pure anguish because D/N would be doing pure gymnastics in your belly that Leon had to ‘have a talk’ but most of the time during your pregnancy he was always talking to your tummy, Asking her to relax on the jumping around in there, Sometimes waking up super early in the morning to talk to your belly & sometimes waking you up & hearing you tell him off a little bit in a muffled voice since you were buried in your body pillow. “Hi babygirl, you excited to get outta there & see your new room? Yeah? Oh I know your excited angel but you can’t keep kicking mama like this sweetheart it hurts her!”, “Can’t keep jumpin’ around in mommy’s belly sweetness your driving her insane sweetheart” “oh yeah!?You excited babydoll?” “Good morning my sweet girl, I can’t wait to see you y’know, mommy & I are so excited to meet you & hold you & love yo-“ “Leon what the hell are you doing awake at 5:30??” “Uh oh I woke up mom” “leon I swear to god if you don’t go back to sleep.”

And then came along the arrival of his awaited babygirl, he was so excited he even set up a little mini red carpet infront of her nursery & stars next to the door & even putting a little sign on your guys’ front door in bold glittery pink ‘Welcome Home Princess D/N” He even brought a little camera to make a home tape for every memory he makes with you & your daughter so when she is finally old enough she can watch, this tape includes her birthing where your shouting & screams could be heard such as “GOD FUCKING DAMNIT LEON!!” “I’M GONNA KILL YOU IN YOUR FUCKING SLEEP!”& his light crying of when she was born

After your daughter was born it was extremely difficult for you two to set a fair sleep schedule so for the first few weeks Leon would wake up at 2:30 AM whenever D/N was crying on the baby monitor and move the rocking chair placed in her room right next to the crib “What’s the matter sweetness? Can’t sleep again? I know babygirl it must be so tough trying to get your little beauty sleep huh?” He would slip his hand through the little bars of the crib and smile giddily every time she would wrap her little hand around his thumb, growing up was the most difficult for him, he cried every-time his sweet angel took her first steps, said her first word which was obviously a strained “da-da” which was to be expected since D/N was a total daddy’s girl. most of the time when he was off he would let you go to work so he could spend his days with your guys’ daughter, take her to the petting zoo, a random aquarium where she discovered her favorite animal was a sea horse, Leon’s entire existence revolved around D/N to the point where if her little fist was directed at something she wanted he bought it, she starts crying? He jumps right up to take her off your hands so you can relax, his entire world was revolving around her & you loved to see it, sometimes when you got home from work you’d see Leon on the living room floor with your daughter as she babbled playing with a random stuffed animal monkey “Hi honey, Took her to the petting zoo today, we discovered she really loves monkeys”

Some mornings when you would all sit at the table eating before the day started Leon would watch her in her high chair chew on whatever she had in-front of her causing a small mess where he would chuckle & clean up after her “Your just one messy little girl huh princess? Gonna have to teach you manners now little lady.” And then came the day where she got her very first booboo, I’m sure you can imagine what happened, Little D/N was running around the backyard chasing a butterfly while you & Leon just finished harvesting this falls apples and then randomly you heard a tiny little wail behind you causing Leon to jump up from the ground and scoop up his baby girl “Baby she has a cut on her knee we need to take her to the hospital now! Get in the car!” “Honey I think she’s alright nothing a little rubbing alcohol & a band aid can’t fix.” When the two of you went inside and into the bathroom he sat on the edge of the bath tub and sat little D/N on his knee while you rubbed some alcohol on her knee which reasonably made her wail out more than she did beforehand causing Leon to start tearing up and kissing the top of her head “I know angel I know it hurts but we can’t let your lil’ booboo get worse & nasty now can we?” Once you finished that 1 minute of anguish you two sat in the living room holding her close as you slightly teased Leon for his light crying “You love making daddy cry now don’t you honey? You know you have him tied up around your little finger huh” You joked while Leon grunted while worryingly making sure she didn’t hurt herself again

One day you caught him in her room when she was around 4 years old having a little tea party, he was sat in a chair next to her that was far to tiny for him to fit in as he wore a pink tiara around his head that was again to tiny for him & a pink fluffy tutu around his waist while fake sipping tea from the tea cup while causing her to giggle, You had just gotten home from work & leaned against the doorway smiling and holding in a laugh but Leon smiled back and stood up and had the tiny chair stuck on his ass causing you & D/N to laugh obnoxiously especially after he eventually was able to pull it off and walk over to you mumbling “shut up.” Before kissing you lightly & asking how your day went. Obviously because of his career he had to miss some important events at school for D/N and he felt AWFUL. He cried in your arms one night after returning from a 1 week trip where he missed father daughter school day where he imagined his poor babygirl sitting at her table in kindergarten watching everyone else with their dad while she had a confused expression. And every single night after that for a month straight he would have little sleepovers in her room where he read her bedtime stories, you know that one 3 little kitties book from despicable me? He obviously read that to her with the brightest smile on his face and once it was time for bed her would sleep on the floor right next to her toddler bed “Goodnight babygirl, daddy loves you so so much y’know that? You got his heart right in your little fist”

By the time she was 10 he was always helping her with school projects & homework & even going to father daughter dances with her, if

D/N wanted something all she had to do was ask and bat her little lashes, some days when he went to go pick her up from school with you in the car he would see her talking to a boy before running off to the car leaving him with a puzzled face “who the hell is that little twerp near my daughter? She does know he is not good enough for her right?” “Nuh-uh Leon, Don’t start let her have friend alright?” “Sweetheart just look at the little shit! He’s practically blushing looking at her right now!” “Oh stop it.”

Just imagine what it would be like when D/N is finally a teenager and brings a boy home for the first time..Leon makes it VERY clear nobody is good enough for his little girl & never will be, he is the entire reason why her standards will be extremely high…

xtripleiiix’s Masterlist

🏷️ List: @ginswife @coolpastelartshoe @greatkoalawizard @cokolin044 @kotoriarlert

[angelsanarchy]

Glass Houses: Jack Thurlow x Y/N Series CH 21 -> CH 22

Tagging:@roryculkinluvr@thatsthewrongwallcraig@icarus-star @cc-luvr @madamemaximoff06@shady-the-simp @quicksilversg1rl @s-0lar @kristennero-wallacewellsver@ophelialaufey @mayathepsychic1999 @x-prettyboy-x @rorylover71 @auggiethecreator @tempt-ress @blacksoul-27

Jack woke up the next day feeling lighter. He felt like the group session really helped him get some of the toxic thoughts out of his brain and all he had on his mind today was asking Y/n out on a proper date.

"Today's the day Ace. Eat up buddy because I'm going to have to drop you at home before I head out." Ace wasn't paying any attention to Jack as he was scarfing down his food. Jack made sure to clean the house up in the event Y/n actually took him up on the offer of a date. He showered and even put on cologne. He felt like he was a complete newbie, as if he never tried to go out of his way to impress anyone before. It had been a long time since he's had remotely romantic feelings for anyone who wasn't Cleo so he wasn't sure what he was doing.

He dropped Ace off at the house before stopping off and grabbing a few things with some helpful suggestions by her mom. When he walked into the clinic, there was a short older woman sitting at the desk with a huge smile.

"Hi sweetheart! Who might you be looking for?" Her nametag read Joy.

"Hi Joy, I'm looking for Y/n. I believe she's a nurse here." Joy smiled at Jack, face lighting up as she looked him up and down.

"You must be Jack Thurlow, the cute neighbor!" Once she spoke, two other women behind the desk paused.

"This is THE Jack?"

"Oh he's so much cuter than she described."

Jack couldn't help but laugh.

"I hope all the things she's told you are good things because I kind of want to ask her on a date and I'm kind nervous she'll say no." Jack explained as the three started making noises of disbelief.

"I'll fire her if she says no! She's been swooning about you forever now and we've been pushing her to ask you out since you seemed a bit...slow on the punch." Joy rolled her eyes playfully and Jack nodded.

"I've been a bit out of it lately and busy with my house renovating but I have the time to completely dedicate my attention to just her." Jack explained but before the gaggle of ladies could say more, Y/n appear from the hallway with a chart in her hand. She froze.

"Jack?" She said his name like she was scared something had happened but Joy stood up.

"Shame on you for not telling us how pretty this man is!" Joy scolded Y/n and she blushed.

"Look Y/n, he brought you flowers. You know yellow roses are a friendship flower right?" One of the other nurses spoke up.

"Yeah but she expressed they were her favorite." Jack explained earning a smile from Y/n.

"I also brought you coffee." He added holding it up. The women made noises of awe and Y/n sighed.

"Okay, that's enough. Let's get back to work ladies. I can take it from here." Y/n shooed the ladies away and Joy sat with her chin resting on her hand.

"Oh honey I work right here." She smirked as Y/n walked around the desk and pulled Jack by his elbow towards the empty waiting room.

"Sorry, I would have texted you but I wanted to surprise you." Jack held out the coffee and Y/n took it.

"I usually don't like surprises but this is a really nice one. I like this one." She sipped the coffee and closed her eyes with a sign of enjoyment. Jack had kept the receipt from when Y/n had brought him coffee just to memorize what she liked for breakfast. He thought it would be a useful thing to know if she ever stayed the night but this worked too.

"I dropped Ace at the house and your mom's day nurse said you were here covering someone's shift so I figured I would bring you a mid-day pick me up." Jack held out the flowers to her.

"These aren't from mom's garden...she'll be devastated." Y/n joked.

"Yeah well I figured having her cut me some flowers first thing in the morning wouldn't show much effort on my part." Jack laughed.

"You came all this way to brighten my day just because I let Ace stay the night?" She smirked and Jack shook his head.

"Actually, I came all this way to see if maybe you would consider having dinner with me tonight? Your mom's nurse already said she didn't mind working a double." Y/n couldn't help the grin on her face. He had gone through a lot of trouble just to ask her to dinner.

"I work until 10:00 tonight-" Joy cleared her throat catching their attention.

"I'm sure we can get you out of here by 9:15...9:30 at the latest." Joy mouthed a solid DO IT! to Y/n and Jack chuckled.

"You don't have to agree to it but you told me to wait until my head was clear and I woke up today feeling like a new person. I felt lighter and excited for the future. I also couldn't stop thinking about you." Jack stepped in closer to Y/n trying to have a somewhat private exchange with Y/n while the others watched on.

"No pressure-"

"I would love to." She smiled at him taking the flowers and holding them to her chest.

"Really? Great." Jack shoved his hands in his pockets not wanting to seem fidgety with excitement.

"I'm going to stop home and shower after work but I'll text you once I'm walking over." Y/n she put her free hand on his chest and Jack nodded in understanding.

"It's a date." He said patting her hand as it slid down his chest. He made sure to stop off at the desk before leaving.

"Joy, you're a sweetheart and my new favorite person. Never change." He grinned making Y/n laugh as he walked away. The women immediately began to bombard Y/n about Jack the moment he was out of ear shot but she wasn't paying attention to them. She was enjoying the coffee and roses that he had brought her that seemed to make her heart beat faster.

[why-do-i-always-say-what-if]

Trouble In Hellfire

Chapter 8/?

Also on Ao3

Summary: Coffee? Check. Toast? Check. Awkward encounter with Eddie’s uncle? Check.

Pairing: Eddie Munson x Fem!Reader

Warnings!: None

A/N: It only took 2 years... but here's a short chapter 8 - maybe I’ll combine some of the chapters together at some point

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When you woke up you were so relieved that it was Saturday that you had pretty much forgotten where you were.

That of course was until Eddie appeared in the doorway with two mugs of coffee and some burnt-smelling toast.

“Good morning Y/N”

He placed the plate and mugs down next to you

“Oh, Eddie you shouldn’t have!” You sat up, all groggy and looked down.

He really shouldn’t have, this toast was cremated.

Eddie scratched the back of his head and smiled weakly.

“Sorry about the toast… I’ve got the cooking skills of a chimp”

You laughed and took a mug into your hands

“I’ll forgive you- but only because you let me sleep with the good pillow” you chuckled

“Not because you slept with me then?”

Eddie retorted

You choked a little on your coffee.

Oh yeah, that wasn’t a dream.

“That too I guess” you blushed.

Eddie perched next to you on the bed.

“Seriously though, I’d like to take you on that Date Y/N”

“I’d really love that.”

You both sipped your coffee.

“How do you feel about bowling?” Eddie asked

“I didn’t take you for a sportsman” you replied

“Oh Y/N I’m a natural! So…?”

“Bowling sounds great Eddie.”

You placed your coffee down and raked your hands through your hair.

“Can I use your bathroom?”

“Of course Y/N. Fair warning though, my uncle is sleeping on the sofa right now”

“We’ll just have to tell him that you’ve just arrived. He’s a little bit weird about me bringing people back.”

You glanced down. People? How many people had he brought back here?

Eddie noticed your face drop.

“Oh sweetheart, I didn’t mean it like that! I brought Gareth back a few times and a couple of customers here and there and Wayne was not happy with the beers that went missing”

“Oh…makes sense.”

“You’re actually the first girl I’ve had in this room.” He nodded in assurance

“It’s kinda like my secret sanctum, can’t let just anyone is here”

“I feel honoured.”

“I hope to have you in here a lot more times Princess- if that’s all okay with you?”

You stood up in Eddie’s shirt and shorts and looked him in the eyes.

“I don’t think you even need to ask that question, Eddie.”

You lifted the shirt with your arms, your head getting stuck in the neck hole, tits out.

“Eddie, some help?

“I don’t know, I’m enjoying this view”

“Eddie I swear, if you don’t help me then I’m screaming, that ought to get your uncle's attention”

“Okay-okay…”

He freed you from the shirt and passed yours back to you.

You threw your skirt on and headed for the bathroom.

After doing your business you looked in the mirror and grinned.

Who knew that sleeping on a shoddy mattress in a trailer park could bring you so much joy?

You unlocked the door and walked out.

Just in time to be face-to-face with Eddie’s Uncle Wayne.

Oh no.

“Eddie?!” He yelled.

Eddie slowly peeped out from his bedroom.

“Yes, Unc-y Wayne…?”

He said in a sickly sweet voice

Uncle Wayne sighed.

“Please tell me you used protection”

“Aye aye, captain!”

Eddie saluted.

“Then it’s lovely to meet you miss-?”

Wayne reached out his hand.

“Y/N”

“What a lovely name.” He said, muttering some more and walking into the bathroom

“He clearly took a shining to you” Eddie snorted.

“Trust me, that’s how he shows his love”

You smiled.

“Lucky me.”

“Anyways, about that date…”

”Bowling?”

”Bowling.”

[barkspawn]

farmer and seb fake date but it's sudden and confusing for one of them but they like each other so yay

This brought me joy. <3

"Sorry, Clint. I'm already dancing with someone," Amelia started, giving the man before her, standing far too close, an awkward smile. 

"Oh? I see," he frowned, looking down, "uh, can I ask who you're dancing with?"

"Oh, uh," she looked around, mind going completely blank. She didn't think about the fact that she'd actually have to find someone. 

Frankly, Clint freaked her out a little. She definitely didn't want to go with him specifically but didn't even think what would happen if she said she had a date and then went alone. 

Before she could answer, Willy and Elliott came walking up the footpath, pausing to say hello. 

"Good Morning, Amelia!" Elliott beamed, turning to the blacksmith, "Clint."

"How are the two of ye this mornin'?" Willy chimed in. 

"Just asking Amelia who her date to the Flower Dance is," Clint responded, his tone short. 

Shit. 

"Oh! You've found a date, Amelia?" Elliott smiled, stepping in to whisper, "is this just a dance or..?"

Amelia's face burned crimson as she backed up a bit, "oh, I uh, I don't know yet. It's a… first date."

Double shit.

Willy and Elliott shared a look while Clint still stared at her, skeptical. 

"I've gotta run and buy some more seeds," she backed up some more, turning and noticing Caroline and Jodi whispering away to one another, not 15 feet away.

Triple shit.

"I'll see you guys at the dance tomorrow!"

They all called their goodbyes as Amelia made her way to Pierre's to buy some odds and ends. She all but ran up to Robin's to schedule the renovation to her house, thankful she got all of this done before everyone knew she had a fake date. 

"Thanks, Amelia! I'll start on Monday."

"Sounds perfect," Amelia beamed, noting the clock said 9:30 am, Sebastian probably asleep. Still, she gestured, "mind if I pop down to see if he's awake?"

Robin gave a shrug and Amelia knocked on the door 4 times, the way that they always had. She heard him call something that sounded like "come in" or some random intelligible shout. 

She ran down and closed the door behind her, "Seb, I am in so much trouble. I-" Seb had clearly just sat up, sitting on the edge of his bed in a pair of dark flannel pajamas and, unfortunately for Amelia, no shirt. She felt that familiar burn return to her cheeks. The blush was mimicked on Sebastian's face as he realized what was happening, having been just hardly awake when he called her in. 

Stifling a yawn. He reached for the closest shirt and pulled it on, running his fingers through his hair to tame it as he looked over at her, "my bad," he mumbled before furrowing his brow, "wait, in trouble? Ames, I just woke up," he joked, "let's slow down. What happened?"

He walked over and sat on his couch, gesturing for her to sit beside him, which she did, her back against the armrest, "sorry, sorry.." she took a breath before meeting his gaze, "Clint stopped me this morning."

Sebastian's lip curled before he could stop it, "uh, okay? Why?"

"He asked me to dance tomorrow."

Sebastian froze for a moment, his slightly disgusted expression turning to a frown, "don't tell me you said yes. You avoid him like the plague."

"Oh, no, I thought I'd give him a chance," Sebastian looked shocked, staring at her before she smacked his arm, "of course I didn't say yes, doofus."

He couldn't help but laugh, rubbing the spot she smacked as if it hurt, "okay, fair. What did you say then?"

She ran both hands back through her hair, groaning dramatically, "I told him I already had a partner."

"Okay?" Sebastian watched her expectantly. 

"But I don't…?"

"You could find someone to dance with."

"Oh! I didn't think of that!" She rolled her eyes, "but it gets worse."

"Oh, do tell."

She pursed her lips at his teasing before admitting, "Willy and Elliott appeared and asked about it. I panicked and said it was a first date," Sebastian laughed aloud at that, earning him a shove (that was more playful than real), "Seb, Caroline and Jodi heard."

His laugh was cut off, "oh."

"Yeah, oh."

She groaned and sunk back into the cushion of his couch as he drummed his fingers on his knee. 

"I.. what are you going to do?"

"I think the obvious answer is to skip the whole thing and move to a new farm," she teased. 

"Oh, you are so not leaving me alone in this town."

She laughed, raising an eyebrow, "Sam? Abby?"

He waved a dismissive hand, "you're different."

Stupid blushing. 

I don't know what that means, but I'm cool with being special to him.

"Seb, I have no idea. I think I just need to skip it."

"Ames, you're excited about it. You and Emily worked on your dress for weeks now," Sebastian frowned, genuinely not understanding why, but wanting to support her. 

"I know, it sucks. But I can't risk him screwing up my tools when I upgrade them."

There was a long moment of silence as Sebastian stared ahead and Amelia stared at the ceiling. When Sebastian spoke, his voice was so low she almost didn't hear. 

"So, dance with me then."

"I'm sorry, what?" She couldn't have heard him right. There was no way that he was offering to be her fake date. 

"Dance with me. People will totally believe it's our first date," he didn't even try to hide his own crimson tone, looking over at her, "it'll make it more interesting anyway."

"You're… serious?" She asked after another beat, "you'll fake date me so I don't make it weird with the weird blacksmith?"

"You're my best friend, Ames. It's no big deal," he shrugged, closing his eyes against the back of the couch. He jumped, gasping when she pulled him into a tight hug, his whole body unsure of how to react. Though his arms moved around her. 

She smelled nice, like lavender and vanilla. He shouldn't notice that. 

Stop noticing that. It's a fake date.

She pulled back and beamed, "It's a date then. You have no idea how much I owe you."

He rolled his eyes dramatically, "and are we telling anyone it's fake, or are our friends gonna freak out too?"

She bit her lower lip in thought, though he knew the answer, "just between us. Can't risk a talkative drunk."

He laughed again, nodding in agreement. After a moment he added, "no laughing at my suit. It's ridiculous."

"I'll behave," she teased, heading for the door, "pick me up at 8:45?"

He grimaced before nodding, "sure. I'll see you then."

"Thanks again, Seb," she smiled warmly, lighting up the whole room, "text me, I'll be home. He gave her a thumbs up, panicking a bit as soon as the door closed. 

─ ⋅ ⋅ ── ✩ ── ⋅ ⋅ ─

Amelia had spent two entire hours straightening her hair, braiding it, and weaving little flowers in it. She omitted any baby's breath; it made it seem too much like a wedding. She had put her dress on almost at the last minute, admiring how it hugged her in the right places before flaring out at the bottom. Emily had added little embroidered wisteria along the edges, deciding to omit the sleeves entirely. 

I wonder if Sebastian will like it?

She blinked, shocked at herself as she slipped on some white flats. 

It doesn't actually matter, Amelia. Stop treating it like a real date. 

There was a knock at the door, sending her heart into a frenzy. She opened the door, Sebastian stopping mid-sarcastic remark, mouth agape before he cleared his throat, "well, hey. Uh, mom said these are usually… a thing?"

She blushed, fighting the urge to bite her lip at the risk of ruining her lipstick. He held out a simple corsage that matched the flowers already pinned to his jacket. She took a moment to look him over, surprised to see how well-tailored the suit was. The vest was even a light purple that matched her own embroidery. He noticed her looking and his face flushed, opening the corsage before slipping it onto her wrist. 

"I stopped by Emily's yesterday. She is a wizard with that sewing machine. Adjusted the suit and made the vest…" he held the jacket open a bit before glancing at her, "and she made your dress, right? You look… amazing." He couldn't quite meet her eye, which she was glad as she felt her blush all the way in her ears. She stepped out and pulled the door closed behind her. 

"Thanks, Seb," she smiled as he offered his arm with a playful smirk, to which she rolled her eyes. They made their way down the southern path and toward the forest, arm in arm. As they turned, she added, "you look pretty incredible, yourself. It fits you perfectly."

He laughed quietly, shaking his head, "Thanks, but trust me, I'm not the one people will be looking at."

She paused, deciding that a little flirting would help, as people were already staring as they walked in, "but I will be."

He looked down at her, taken aback before it dawned on him that they were there. He hesitated before slipping his hand down into hers as they crossed the small bridge. 

Her heart was winning marathons in her chest, unknowing that his was doing the same. They both continuously had to remind themselves that it wasn't real. They passed Pierre's table, not even bothering to stop as they started to note all of the eyes on them, catching sight of their hands clasped together. She noticed how nervous he seemed and squeezed his hand gently. As he smiled down at her and she smiled back, Sam came bounding up to them. 

"Guys, what is that?" He said, his voice low as he leaned in, pointing at their hands. 

Sebastian shrugged, lifting their hands for a moment before squeezing her hand once more to calm her now, "we.. decided to go on a date. Here. Now."

Sam stared between them before he shook his head, "you know, I figured it'd happen eventually. Abby is going to have a field day when she sees."

As if on queue, Abby walked up, a lollipop in her mouth, removing it with a hum, "when I see wha- oh my god."

She stared in awe at their hands, the attention making the both of them blush wildly. Suddenly Abby shoved Sam. 

"You so owe me $20. You thought it'd take months!"

Sam groaned, fishing out 20 gold and giving it to her. Sebastian and Amelia stared at each other for a moment, speechless. 

"You gambled on when we'd date?" Sebastian asked after a long minute, resulting in a bark of laughter from the two of them. 

"Dude, you two were constantly staring at each other and all of that crush-on-each-other type shit!" Sam said through his laughter, "go on you two love birds, go enjoy your date."

They mumbled thanks before walking to an empty table, sliding into two chairs beside one another at a small table. After a moment of awkward silence, Amelia cleared her throat and teased, "so you stare at me, huh?" She bumped him playfully, causing a groan from him. 

"I do not stare at you like that."

"Uh huh, suuuure."

A devious smirk played at his lips as he turned to face her, "and do you? They said we both stare, you know."

Still teasing him, the awkwardness aside, she leaned in to whisper into his ear, "and what if I do?"

The answer caught him off guard. Despite their constant picking on one another, he stared at her with wide eyes before gently pushing her, "then I'll have to ask you to keep your eyes to yourself," the smirk returned suddenly, wider now, "Ooh, that's why you were staring this morning when I woke up; because I was half naked."

It was her turn to be caught off guard, though she recovered quickly, "I couldn't help it. Put yourself in my place. Imagine walking in on me half-naked. You'd be surprised too."

He considered for a moment before shaking his head, "that's quite different."

"You still pictured it though."

".... shut up."

She laughed, her next quip cut off by the dance announcement. They stood, hands gravitating toward one another again. Once in their place in line, he moved his hands to her waist as she rested her arms around his neck, the sounds of whispers about them echoing around the field. 

The date had turned into a strange form of romantic chicken, each of them trying to see just how far they could push the other person before they backed off. 

As they waited for the music, she toyed with the hair at the base of his neck, watching as he tensed, small goosebumps prickling at his skin. 

"You're really cruel, you know," he leaned forward to mumble into her ear. The breath on her skin had a similar effect to the one she had on him. 

"Ooh, I found one of your little romantic quirks," she teased, "Sebby, likes his hair played with."

His lip curled as he shook his head, "yeah, very sexy to call me by the same name my mom calls me."

She laughed, moving at the same pace as the rest of the dancers, about to pull back for the separate part, but not before whispering, "we're being sexy now?"

He pursed his lips as he couldn't respond, finishing the portion of the dance before they walked back together. 

This feels way too easy and natural. It's fake though. Don't go too far.

She chuckled as his hands found her waist again, despite how the feeling of his hands felt like electricity moving through her. They were closer now, almost oblivious to the rest of the crowd watching them still. As the music stopped, the men bowed and the women curtsied. When she came back up, she stood on her toes to press a kiss to his cheek, his grin seeming genuine. 

"Oh, you're getting bold there, Rowe."

She laughed as she pulled his arm around her shoulders, heading for the refreshment table, getting them both a cup of punch.

"To Pam most likely having spiked this," he raised his glass, her laugh a little too loud as she moved to cover her mouth before touching her cup to his and downing it in one gulp. He did the same, grimacing. It was definitely spiked and burned like hell going down. They refilled their cups before going back to their little table, tossing popcorn into each other's mouths, laughing when they finally caught one. They grew more and more comfortable with the 'date' and became engulfed in their little game of chicken, a hand resting on a leg here, a head on his shoulder there. She had toyed with his hair whenever she got the chance, knowing it was his weakness. Each time, he tossed her a warning look, frustrated that she found one of his romantic quirks. 

She would soon back off though as he found one of hers. He was pretending to do a palm reading before he ghost his fingers over the skin of her forearm, shocked by the sharp intake of breath. She definitely cooled it with the hair after that as he used his revenge often in retaliation. 

"You're such a jerk," she joked. 

"Funny how I'm a jerk when I do it," he laughed, resulting in a smile from her every time. 

She had snuck away to request an extra romantic song, which started to play. She took his hands and pulled him up and couple after couple went to the dance floor. 

"Oh, Yoba, you're making me dance more," he groaned as she grinned mischievously. They both were a little buzzed from the punch. 

Thanks, Pam. 

Still, he followed her, not hesitating to slip his arms around her waist as she followed suit with her arms. Their faces were very close, making it easy for them to talk without being heard. She gestured to Clint as subtly as possible. He stood at his table with a sour expression pretending not to stare directly at the couple.

"I think he's just brooding, honestly. Maybe we're convincing," Sebastian whispered.

"Seems like it," she started, glancing his way, which seemed to entice him over. 

"Shit," she mumbled as he approached. 

"Mind if I step in? You look beautiful, Amelia."

Sebastian's face grew angry for a moment, "seriously? We're on a date and you walk over to tell her she's beautiful and ask her to dance when she already said no?"

She cut him off before he continued, "Seb, it's okay," she touched his face, guiding his gaze back to her before she answered Clint, "sorry, I'm really enjoying myself with Sebastian."

He was walking away before she was even finished. She turned to look over Seb's face, which still seemed mildly irritated, "hey, it's cool, Seb," her voice was soft as she touched his face again, snapping him out of it, "he backed off. No need to be protective," she smirked as he released a breathless laugh, tightening the dance into a tight hug, "sorry, can't help it. Just not willing to share."

She buried her face in his neck, causing him to tense once more, his voice just above a whisper, "don't you dare."

She laughed, the breath against his neck still sending a chill down his spine, "I wasn't going to. It's a romantic battle, not an embarrass-Sebastian-moment."

He let out a laugh before they realized they weren't dancing any longer but just standing there. He touched the small of her back, guiding her to a secluded corner. 

"Thank you again for this, Seb. Really. Thank you," she bit her lower lip before glancing at the rest of the people, "make sure you tell me if I go too far with our little game, okay?"

"Not sure you could," he responded without thinking, clearing his throat before adding, "I'm comfortable with you. If you think it'll make him back off, I'll help."

She tucked herself back under his arm, noting that it did feel natural.

"Don't challenge me, Ainsley," she teased, making him laugh. After a moment, she sighed, "what happens after the dance, Seb?"

"Obviously we keep fake dating, get fake married, and have fake kids before fake growing old together."

She laughed aloud, moving her arm around his waist before he continued, "to be honest? We could just tell people we don't work romanticly."

Amelia surprised herself by feeling disappointed, and more so by noticing he sounded like it as well. 

"This is fun though, teasing you," she hummed, toying with the fingers on the hand that rested over her shoulder. As he watched her, he leaned down and pressed a kiss to her head, not really sure what compelled him to do so. 

She looked up at him, eyes a little wide, "you're enjoying this too then, huh?"

He chuckled, meeting her eyes as he tucked a strand of hair that had fallen loose behind her ear, smirking when he saw her cheeks lose the battle to blushing again. After a moment, she laughed quietly. 

"Oh, Yoba, I just had the worst thought," she shook her head before meeting his gaze, her smile devilish, "were this a real date, you might have made the cut tonight."

He raised an eyebrow, "made the cut?" He looked over her face for a moment before it clicked, "oh."

She laughed, "just being honest. You're a good date, Sebastian Ainsley."

"You're not so bad yourself, Amelia Rowe," he bumped her hip with his, teasing her as she rested her head on his shoulder. He rested his head on top of hers for a long moment. 

They both knew they were in trouble. 

It felt so natural, so undeniably right to be like this. Nearly every touch and tease gave them butterflies. 

Sebastian waged an internal war for a long moment as they watched everyone. Suddenly, he squeezed her shoulder, grasping onto the little confidence he had, "I bet I'll win this little game we're playing."

She chuckled, shaking her head, "oh yeah? Why's that?"

"I can make you turn me away."

"And what if I don't?" 

He paused for a long moment, "then it's a very different game."

She looked up at him curiously as he turned to face her, an almost sad smirk playing at his lips. She was about to ask, but he moved his hand to cup her cheek, thumb brushing over her cheekbone. A million thoughts crossed her mind, none of them even close to rejecting him. 

His eyes flicked down to her lips, his heart skipping several beats as hers did the same. He paused before leaning in a little, his voice a shaky whisper, "am I going to win?"

She started to lean up as well, "no, no you're not," she whispered in return before closing the distance between them, her lips molding perfectly with his, neither of them willing to pull away. Everyone else at the dance disappeared as she thread her fingers up through his hair, a small approving noise escaping his throat. Any other time he'd be embarrassed, but fuck that. 

This was happening and Yoba, it felt so real. 

She pressed closer to him as they deepened the kiss, his tongue cautiously moving over her bottom lip before she met his tongue with hers, waging a new war between them. 

Someone cleared their throat, bringing them back to the dance immediately, breaking their kiss and mumbling apologies as they stood side by side again, chests rising and falling in tandem. 

"Seb?"

"Yeah..?" He breathed, still cautious as he watched a frustrated Lewis walking away. 

"This... isn't fake, is it?" She swallowed hard before looking up at him.

"I think it started that way," he started, slipping his hand into hers, "but, and I can't speak for you, it got pretty real for me pretty quickly."

"When?" She smiled, feeling like a teenager who just kissed her crush for the first time. She braced herself for a sarcastic answer as she saw Seb smirk, eyes focused ahead of him. 

"When you opened your front door." 

She stared up at him, her face that of utter shock before she laughed, lifting his hand to press a kiss to the back of it, "me too. Although I think you knew yesterday when you went to those lengths to match my dress."

He finally turned, his smirk turning to a genuine smile, "guilty."

She leaned up and pressed a kiss to his jawline, "why don't we… go finish what we started?" 

He stared at her, genuinely shocked.  She laughed and took his hand, walking toward the exit. 

"Be safe, you two!" Sam and Abby called out together, laughing at themselves as the non-fake date moved along to somewhere much more private.

[elorwen]

I am thinking of writing a fanfic on the movie Hellboy (2008) with Nuada as the love interest. I have written the prologue so here it is! Tell me what you think of it.

It has been years since I escaped them, decades even, but I could never forget what they did. Each morning, as I wake up, I am reminded by my appearance that I could never go back to my past life. I knew that very well, I was no longer human and there was nothing I could do about it.

It had been a quiet night as I was getting home from school. Two men grabbed me on the dark streets and knocked me out. When I woke up, it was in a dark cell with a throbbing headache. I soon learned that I was in an illegal genetic facility. They took children and teenagers from the streets to experiment on them.

The researchers injected me with so many different animal genetics that I didn't know if I was more animal than human anymore. My body began to change and grew limbs and features I did not have before. The process was painful and almost drove me mad. I heard my bones cracking and twisting as my appearance changed, I heard my skin ripping as new bones and muscles were created, I heard my screams as the scientist studied and laughed at me like I was a lab rat.

As months passed, I grew wings… Large powerful barn owl wings. I also began to feel my nails getting tougher and longer, my teeth getting sharper and my eyes adjusted better to the dark. I grew a tail, a mix between fur and feathers covered it and the end split in feathered tail fins. I watched my body change without knowing what would grow next. A russian roulette of new features…

Years had passed and I began to accept my new body, finding that some features were actually not that bad. Night vision is a big plus when you are constantly in the dark. I had become used to the lack of sleep and the constant visit of my captors, but nothing could have prepared me for that.

They came to my cell and they took me to a new room, a cleaner one. It sent chills down my spine. I fought against their hold on me but they still managed to strap me to the medical table at the center of the room, not without casualties though… Three men fell at my claws and one got his breath knocked out by my wing.

I was feral, struggling against the restraint with violent shakes and tugs. I snarled and for the first time in this facility, I did not mind the animal sound that came out of me.

The researchers were moving around me in silence as they ignored my growls and snarls. Suddenly one approached me with a syringe full of gold liquid and my eyes widened in fear. I tried to snap my teeth at him but nothing I did permitted me to reach him. The man injected me with the substance and instantly I felt a burning pain starting from my neck and spreading to all of my body.

I had never experienced such pain before, it was much stronger than anything they had done before. I screamed as all my limbs felt like they were on fire. The only thing that kept me from fainting was my resolve to stay awake when someone was near. I had soon learned that sleep was one of my biggest enemies here. It left you vulnerable, completely at their mercy.

Minutes passed and the pain went away gradually. As soon as my cries and screams died down, they threw me back in my cell. I had no strength left and simply fell on the floor. My eyes closed and I fell into a dreamless sleep.

⭒◃○▹✩◃○▹⭒

I woke up to an explosion. That was a new sound and my lips quirked in something that looked like a grimace but was a smile. I could only imagine that it meant that one of their machines had blown up in their face and it brought great joy to me, even in my weakened state.

My short-lived joy was renewed when I heard screams and gunshots. The researchers never used guns on us, we were too precious to them for that. It meant that someone else had entered the facility. I got to my feet in a struggle and clutched the bars of my cell as I watched the chaos unfold before me. My captors were running away from men in military gear.

The guards of the facility were taken by surprise and didn’t have time to react and fight back as they were shot and killed. I grinned as I watched the downfall of my persecutors. The carnage was finished in half an hour and all of the sane prisoners, including me, stayed silent as we watched the men that killed our previous captors.

We didn’t know if we had to feel relieved or scared. Suddenly, a man with round glasses and curly brown hair stepped before my cell. I watched with a curious but guarded gaze as he looked over me. His eyes widened and he clutched his book and rosary tightly. “What happened to you? All of you?” he asked me softly as he gestured to all of the cells.

I stared at him for a bit and straightened my back as I spread my wings. “God left this place a long time ago.” I replied as I watched him with wary eyes. “We are not his creations anymore, but theirs.” I finished as I gestured to the dead men.

“How old are you, my child?” he asked with a softer tone. My heart leapt in my throat and I clenched my teeth. “What year is it?” I asked in a whisper. His eyes widened slightly and softened in realization. “Today is the 9th of october 1967.” I stayed silent for a moment and my eyes watered slightly. Its been two years, two fucking years of torture. I wanted to scream, let all my rage and pain out, but all I managed to croak out was: “I will be nineteen in december.”

The man’s eyes softened even more and he glanced at the armed men behind him. He shooed them with his hand and they left with reluctant steps. He turned back to me and smiled in reassurance. “I am professor Trevor Bruttenolm, or as many call me, professor Broom. What is your name, little angel.” he said as he introduced himself. The nickname went straight to my heart and a tear fell down my cheek. I scoffed and sniffled as I wiped my cheek. I had not allowed a single tear to fall in the presence of my captors, I would not give them this pleasure, but now, those words and his tone made me crack. “Frederika, Frederika Walsh.” I replied with a small smile. “And I am no angel, professor.”

He smiled and waved his hand dismissively. “When I see a young and beautiful girl with wings like yourself, I can’t help but see an angel.” He replied with a sincere tone. I sniffled once more and looked at him with grateful eyes. “I am from the B.P.R.D., it stands for the Bureau for Paranormal Research and Defense. There, you could be welcomed and safe,” he continued with a small hopeful smile. “All of you could.”

My gaze became harder and I stepped back. “But at what cost?” I asked as I heard the others agree and pace in their cell. The professor saw my change in demeanor and frowned in disappointment at the fact that he was unable to earn my trust. “Freedom. Freedom is the cost.”

I clenched my teeth and glared at him. “There is a facility in Antarctica ready to welcome all of you, but if you go there, it will be forever,” he continued with a sad smile. I heard some sighs and defeated sounds from the others as I watched the professor with a neutral gaze. “There is another option,” he added quickly.

I raised an eyebrow at him and waited for him to continue. “Work for us and you could roam the world.” I inhaled sharply and clutched the bars of my cell. “I want in,” I said immediately. The professor smiled and looked around the cells. All the others shook their heads no and chose Antarctica. He nodded and asked for each of us to be released but kept under watch.

He personally opened my cell and I stepped out quickly. I looked back at the awful cell and watched as all the others got out. We were only five sane prisoners, all the others were either dead or turned into mindless beasts. I took a deep breath and gave a small nod accompanied by a smile to the professor. He smiled and gestured for us to follow him. “Let’s go home.”

Home. A word I had forgotten. A word that I would soon use frequently.

[yakultii]

it’s that time of the day agaaaaiinnnn …. when I woke up this morning (or should I say afternoon bc I didn’t go to sleep til like 5am again rip) I thought today was gonna be so rough BUT I went through the motions and made some moves to improve it (I’m getting very good at this now! or maybe I always was and never really recognised it until now, allowing me to now feel good about it) and the afternoon was a lot better than expected! It was so exhausting I felt like I was physically dying but I spent hrs cleaning up so now if someone saw into my apartment it just looks a normal amount of messy rather than time to be institutionalised type vibe (no exaggeration) and then I made heaps more protein icecream and then I was so exhausted I wanted to lie in my bed forever but I also wanted to get some fresh air on a walk but I told myself I could only go for my walk IF I cooked them god damn burritos first(knowing I’d be both mentally and physically exhausted by the time I got back and put it off again….. and I did it!!!!!!! It didn’t take long at all which I knew all along but sometimes my mind can’t comprehend that until I actually do it ugh. Then I FaceTimed my mum while I went for a walk but on the way home I walked past them filming the news live cos some really tragic events occurred on my road which is so sad.. and then I got home and learned I have the heart rate variability of a 75yro at 24 so that’s super duper fun but we all knew my body was cooked and imma try do everything in my power to increase that :,) ALSO before I went on my walk I saw the new sign my neighbour put up (as u will see in a prev post) and it made me so happy :))) I’m so glad I made the card heheh making it and giving it brought me so much joy - I think maybe the reason my life feels so empty is because I haven’t been doing nice things for people(idk?) like how can I expect the universe be kind to me when I haven’t actively been going out of my way to be kind lately (I used to all the time but now I don’t have much human contact so that’s kinda why it’s been limited)… I was running at parkrun on Saturday mornings bit before I started getting too physically exhausted to even do that but this has got me thinking maybe I should just go there and volunteer until I’m feeling physically better?? It really can’t hurt for me to learn how to be around people again just one morning a week (just gotta fix my sleep schedule over the next few days first)… anyways I’ll get back to you on the progress w that one! additionally I am super grateful for my hot shower and even more so for the bomb ass burritos I just ate for dinner! I also achieved most my goals from yesterday of drink water and make burrito but not get sleep rip. My goals for tomorrow are 1. get to SLEEP before 3am (I mean that’s kinda today,kinda tomorrowlol) 2. eat a little more than I did today 3. complete readings/questions for at least 1 of my uni classes for next week(I’ve barely done any readings the entirety of my degree and still managed mostly 90s but I’m doin a lil experiment to see what happens when I do LOOL also now I only do so, no more philos, so that readings are gonna be a lot more manageable/I may as well try :) I hope you’re all having a lovely day today and that your tomorrow is even better!

[ageless-aislynn]

Heh, I woke up this morning thinking I was late to record a new Halo game ASMR episode.

What I remember from the dream was that I'd record soft-spoken ASMR commentary over selected bits of my gameplay. The funny part about that is that I TOTALLY used to sit here and talk out loud while I played. Thankfully, I was generally alone in the room at the time, lol. But the idea of me taking that and then recording it as ASMR...?

Well, I guess you haven't lived until you've heard me soft-speaking things like:

Arrrgh, Chief, we're taking it right in the face, aren't we? Yep. Right. In. The. Face.

Kat, you are NOT too good to get in the back of the Troop Transport. Let the guy with the rocket launcher sit in the passenger seat.

What happened to that Revenant? Did it just launch itself into space? Did we know it could launch itself into space?

My dude, I gave you a rocket launcher. Use it. What? Did you have to stop and read the manual? Shoot some Covvies before we get smoked.

Awwwww, yeah, Halo 2 physics when you've got all the fun skulls on mean you can LAUNCH a Scorpion off the bridge to spin away into space, yesssssss.

(If Kat tells me that I'm outstanding) Why yes, I am out standing... in my field. *Noble Six strikes a heroic pose though we're usually not in a field that I am out standing in, sadly* 🤷‍♀️😂

Don't worry, marines, Daddy's here now. You won't get all deadified, I promise.*

*I generally say this to the marines in the Warthog with Chief on Silent Cartographer in CE. If you don't take them alllll the way with you through the level and back out again in that 'hog, you'll find them dead under the Warthog if you bypass being picked up by Foehammer and go looking for them. Yes, UNDER the Warthog, I have no idea why. 🤷‍♀️But I'm not letting that happen to my marines, no way! C'mon, gang, we're cramming this Warthog into buildings and down hallways into places it was never meant to go because I'm KEEPING you alive.

I decided to share this with y'all because I hope the very idea of it will give you at least the same sort of chuckle that it gave me. 😂

Channel advertisement: "Come along and relax with Aislynn as she softly chants, "OH FRICK OH FRICK OHHHHH FRICK" after she accidentally sticks her foot with a plasma grenade. Enjoy peaceful moments as she takes a turn too sharp and rolls the Warthog a few times. Feel your soul soothed and cleansed as it takes, like, a dozen shots to finally get a Jackal to stop dodging and actually lower his shield so she can kablooey him. All this joy and more can be yours if you LIKE COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE to AislynnGamesASMR.**"

Loud announcer voice: "BROUGHT TO YOU BY RAID SHADOW LEGENDS."

(I mean, if you've heard one sponsored by Raid Shadow Legends commercial, you've heard them all, right? 😂😉)

**Not a real Youtube channel, natch. 😉But...

it should be.

*gigglesnort*

Okay, that's it for now.

Six Aislynn out.

[iamdarkness]

Iris

Alfonse x oc Summoner, Lif x oc Summoner

Chapter 4

Dreams

Chapter summary: The dreams continue and Henriette is made aware of a new threat. The house is being rebuilt while the funerals are being planned.

Oly woke to sun on her face. Momentarily she had no recollection of the prior days and wondered why Nanny Bertha had opened the drapes. She wondered if she had lessons then and instantly groaned. She did not want to open yer eyes.

Oly felt the warmth of a body next to her. It felt soft and inviting. She loved sleeping with her mother. She felt like a small kitten next to her mother cat. Her father always felt firm and strong and although both her parents felt very different, she always felt very safe and loved.

She finally opened one eye, when she noticed there was someone else with them on the bed, but it was not big enough to be her father. For a second she thought the letters her parents had sent to the stork had been sent and that the stork had actually brought them a sister. Then when her eyes adjusted, she was met with green eyes starting back at her as well. They were as confused as Oly’s eyes were.

-Sharena? Are you my sister now?

-What?- Asked Sharena even more confused now.

-My sister…the stork sent you to be my sister?

-I…it was the fairies…I think…

-What are you two talking about?- Asked Alfonse getting up from Sharena’s other side. He looked confused as well and was looking around the room.- This is Mother’s chamber…Oh…I remember…

-What did you remember brother? The bad dream?

-I remember.-Chimed in Oly.

-Yes…the bad dream.- Said Alfonse and turned around to hide his eyes that had watered with the memory of his cousin.

-Can we go see father after breakfast?- Asked Sharena.

-Mmmmmmmmmmm five more minutes….God I hate mornings…

The kids turned to Bel. The girls giggled and Alfonse had this face expression between amusement and confusion.

- Mami does not like getting up early…She’s nocturnal…like a vampire.- Giggled Oly. Sharena giggled again.

-I eat little kittens who go to sleep late!- Bel said trying to get any of them with her eyes closed feeling the bed with her hand.- Breakfast…

  The kids jumped out of bed. Sharena and Oly squealed with joy and Alfonse laughed out loud, which was strange because he felt like laughing but at the same time he wanted to cry.

  -What is a vampire?- Asked Sharena once they were sitting to eat breakfast.

  -Bel said it was a made up monster from folklore in her world. They drink the blood of the living and then turn them into vampires and turn themselves into bats….and they dress in black and sleep during the day…umm Oh and they can turn into smoke and animals depending on the civilization the tales come from.

  -Wow Alfonse ! You remember all of that? - Asked Sharena in awe.

  -I…I like folklore a lot. They seemed interesting. Is that why you like the color black on clothing?- He asked Bel. She laughed momentarily forgetting her sadness.

  -Yes I guess in a way, but I have always liked the color along with red and blue…I just don’t look as good in blue.

  -Mami you call Daddy vampire…but he does not sleep in the day time.

  -Yeah…He’s a morning person…he had to have some imperfection you know…but it is not because of when he sleeps.- The kids look confusedly at her, waiting for her answer. She was not going to tell the kids Alfonse was a biter in bed so she thought of telling them the rest of the reasons. -Your grandfather is a count honey. There is a book about a Count that is a vampire. I tease your father with that.

  -So my grandfather is a vampire?- Asks Oly horrified. The question comes just in time for Adrien to arrive.

  -I am what?- He asks sitting down at their small table. They were eating on the low table sitting on cushions.

  -No Oly. Father have you eaten breakfast? Do you need me to bring you something?

  -I have not daughter. I will take some of those pancakes and eggs with sausage.

After they ate breakfast Sharena voiced her wish to visit her father.

-Mami I want to see Papi too.

The time had come for them to tell Oly the truth. Bel thought about allowing Sharena to stay or wait until she was gone. Alfonse decided for her.

-Sister. I think we should wait a moment here with Oly. - He said as he sat by Oly’s side. Sharena looked puzzled, but sat next to him. This was Bel’s cue to start.

 -Oly I need you to listen to me. As you know, your Uncle Gustav was injured and he is in bed. Your own grandfather was injured as well but thankfully not as bad.- Oly nodded and took Alfonse’s hand in hers.- People get injured in wars and sometimes they get very injured and they die. You know that right?- Oly nodded.- Your father was very hurt baby. Much more than even uncle Gustav.- Oly’s lower lip trembled but said nothing.- I am afraid he …will not be coming back.

-Daddy is not coming back?…But…He told me he was coming back…He said …He promised… I gave him my lucky bracelet…Mami! I want my Daddy!- She cried and Bel hugged her tight.

-Cry Baby…Cry all you want… it is fine. I am here with you…We are all here for you. We love you.

-Yes we love you Oly.- Said Sharena and she was crying too. She was clinging to Alfonse’s arm.

-Yes Oly. We love you.- Said Alfonse and took her hand. Oly turned to them her lower lip still trembling. And she let go of Bel to be embraced by Sharena And a reluctant Alfonse.

-I…I want my Daddy…

-I know Oly…I can be like your father if you want to. I can…I can protect you…

-Yes Oly. Alfonse is very good at protecting people and…and I can be your sister too if you want to.

-Who is going to take tuck me in to sleep…

-Well my little darling. If you permit me. I can do it every time you need me to do so.- Said Adrien.

-You will grandfather?-

-Of course I will, little one. I love you. You are a piece of me.

-Daddy said …He said I was a piece of his soul and he would always be with me….is that true?

This took Adrien by surprise and Bel who was crying softly hid her face in her hands to not cry loud. It broke her heart to hear her say that and hear her cry. If it had only been her, she would have been able to bear the loss, but having a child, even though it was a blessing it was harder to see them crumble and suffer so.

  -Yes. Mi gatita…You are a piece of his soul and mine…and…we…he will always be watching over you…even if you do not see him; he will be there with you. OK?

  -OK…

  -But you also have your Grandfather and Sharena and Alfonse. Remember that they will be with you but you also have to be with them.

  -OK…-Oly said and tried whipping her tears with her sleeves. Bel took out the handkerchief Alfonse had lent her and used it to dry her tears.

  Bel knew Oly would not forget the loss of her father but the following hours were spent trying to get her to feel better. At the end it was Oly who suggested they go visit Gustav. Adrien had taken her little hand and Bel walked to her other side. They were walking behind Sharena and Alfonse. Bel had sent Deana to let them know they were coming and had given Oly something for the fever she had gotten with the strong emotions she was dealing with.

  They were turning the corner leading to the hallway to the rooms when Henriette and an unknown man turned the corner first.

  -Oh! There you are. This is Baron Gulbrandsen, Lord of the Southern lands of Embla. -Henriette said to them hastily and then to the lord.- My Lord, as you already know, this is Earl Andreas Lord of Nibelheilm and this is his daughter Lady Andreas.

  The introduction was so fast and so unexpected they were a little speechless for a moment.

  -A pleasure….- was all Bel was able to say before Henriette started talking again.

  -I apologize for the hasty introduction, but I am afraid we are in a bit of a bind. We were just informed that a large group of Emblan Soldiers come our way. They will arrive in three days time, but a small envoy has arrived already.

  -They come for me. I am afraid that by helping you fight on my own I have brought the wrath of the Empire down on me. My punishment surely will be death. My lands and title has already been taken I am sure, along with my remaining daughter Leticia. She will go to live with my relatives.

  -Henriette…I think we should talk in privet.- Said Adrien.

  -I can take the kids to see Gustav and stay with them.- Said Bel. Henriette looked like she wanted to say something but a quick look down at Oly made her change her mind.

  - Of course. I will appreciate it. We follow you Adrien, lead the way.

  - I rather also stay close, just in case we need Gustav’s point of view. Let us use the room next door.

  Once inside Sharena and Alfonse stood next to the door and waited to be called by Gustav. Bel could have rolled her eyes at such pomposity. Others may call it respect, but it felt wrong to her to treat your kids as if they were servants to be called when needed. She never said anything since it was not her house any way. She was a guest even if she was considered family.

  Gustav called both of his kids to get near almost right away. Sharena had been warned where the injuries were and how he looked. Meanwhile Bel sat across from the bed with Oly in her arms. She expected the visit not to be very emotive, so it was a surprise when Gustav tried to sit up and hug Sharena and Alfonse, but got hurt in the process. Oly gasped when she heard him groan and her eyes watered. The healer had gone out of the room and there was no one to help the man.

  -Come Oly. Let us help your uncle.

  Alfonse and Sharena were trying to help him get back in place but were also scared to touch him and cause him more pain.

  -Here let me help you. God! What did they feed you guys that makes you grow so darn tall and ,muscular!…And heavy!-Bel said smiling after she put some more pillows under the man.- I could have used some of it myself.

  -Thank you.- Said Gustav and proceeded to hug a very stiff Alfonse and a worried Sharena. Oly was watching them closely. Bel was about to suggest they let them have a moment when Gustav spoke next.- Little Oly. May I have a hug?

  Oly Looked up at Bel and she nodded at the girl.- Just be careful not to press right there where you can see bandages.

  -Yes Mami.- Oly said and approached the bed. Since this was a guest room, the bed was not as high as the main chambers, but Oly was still too small to climbed by herself so Bel had to sit her by his side the way Sharena had done.- Uncle Gustav…I love you.

  -I…I love you too…as much as…- Gustav closed his eyes, and so he did not see Alfonse and Sharena share a look, their eyes wet with tears once again. They had never seen their father this emotional in a long time.

  -Your beard is ticking me.- Oly said with a giggle. And scratched her cheek where the beard had been tickling her.

  -I do suppose it is very long now.- Said Gustav in an almost shy way.

  - It fits you well though. You should keep it. - Said Bel smiling at Gustav.- Oly come. Let us go find the healer and make sure he did not pull a stitch or something. You guys do not let him move again.- Gustav gave a gruff little laugh and Alfonse and Sharena stood there a little bewildered. Oly came down the bed and took Bel’s hand. They met the healer on the way back and Bel was explaining what had happened when they were met with Aleen. The healer went back to Gustav and Aleen proceeded to talk in a whisper.

  - My Lady…I have news…but first I wanted to…I …I know how you feel…I…

  -Erland? - Aleen lowered her face and nodded. He was dead.- I asked but…no one would tell me. -Aleen looked down at Oly and said nothing more.

  - Let me call Deana.

  -Oh by the way. We found Nanny Bertha. Chimney sweepers saw her through a hole in the wall and took her with them to the kitchen cellar. That is where they held up with the rest of the kitchen staff who were not able to come down to the library. It was a wise decision to leave the food. They were able to survive thanks to that and the fact that two of the healers were among them.

  -Really? Did you hear that Oly?

  -Yay!! Can I go see her?

  -She is still hurt enough not to work but she can have visits… but we have not told her…

  -Oh I see…Oly did you hear? Do not tel her about Papi OK? We can not make her sad right now.

  -OK Mami.

  Deana was called and they took the kids to see Nanny Bertha. Once Bel thanked her and warned her not to do such a thing again, She stepped outside with Aleen to talk outside the door.

  -Aleen…

  -It took so long to find him…The dead…they…there were…are piles of bodies…whole and pieces…it is taking them time to …

   -Ah…

   -Erland was whole thankfully…I am taking his insignia to his mother.- His mother being a widow who lived off the pension of her late husband who was in the military and her son’s salary. Erland was an only child.- But I am afraid we will not be able to take his body…All of them will be buried here or at the town’s cemetery or cremated depending on the costumes. The pieces that can not be identified will be cremated as well.

  -Do we have reports from the city? Were they able to evacuate on time?

  -Yes. There were a few people who decided to stay. Some made it and some did not. It was them who informed the late King we were being besieged. We really do not have as many …it could have been so much worse Madam. My Lady…it was all thanks to my Lord.

  - You don’t know half of it.

  -Oh My Lady…I know…there were those who witnessed…they said to me…they said my Lady and it was confirmed by many…the King…he …They say he offered his son as a sacrifice…his own son and My Lord saved the prince….at least that is what they say…

  -Gustav told me.

  -My Lady…There was a man…he…died…but…Gudrun told me to tell you. There was a man in the infirmary who died early morning and was the royal chamber pot cleaner. He overheard the king telling the priests, he wanted my Lord out of his way, but if Gustav fell it was still in his plans…but he did not say why.

  -Wait what? How does Gudrun know this?

  - The man was a…Gudrun’s father had an affair and

  -Oh…illegitimate son…

  -Yes my Lady. Gudrun did not ask for protection but I fear for his life if this reaches the top. If you should ask…because I know you deserve to know… Gudrun wanted to tell you himself but I told him he could take the time to bury his brother. He is currently doing preparations for that.

  - Don’t worry. I will not say his name or yours. I am well aware of the dangers. In fact I am very sure I will get my information without they even asking who told me. I am sure Gustav is not the danger and I know for their own good they will keep this quiet, but they WILL tell me the truth …that is if they even know the reasons the King had to want my husband dead.

  -There is also the matter of the newcomers. - Aleen looked around again to check no one was overhearing.- Well Gudrun and Feraht talked to some of the soldiers. One of them told them something that seems important.

  -What is it?

  - Just as you heard. Gudrun had many friends in the village that was first attacked. Some of the soldiers that were in the first incident with the ritual was on guard duty and swears the Lord that comes with the group is one of the person performing the ritual. He told Gudrun there should be documentation and proof about the incident and that they even had sketches of the perpetrators and a pendant that looked to be very valuable.

  - We need to let Henriette and Gustav or maybe Adrien may know something and a way to use this…The man said he was going to die…what if we can use this to save him? I am sure Embla did not want to open the door and had their own people die. They knew Hel meant to kill the Empress.

  - So anyone helping open the door would be committing treason!- Exclaimed Aleen.

  -Exactly! Come we need to tell Gustav. He may know where the files are. I will send my father to talk to the witnesses. Please point them out to him.

  Aleen left and Bel checked on the kids before going to see Gustav. She did not want to leave Oly for longer than necessary but she looked happy to be near someone else she loved.

  Bel went to see Henriette and Adrien first. They were still in the room next to Gustav’s. She knocked and then entered. The three people went quiet when she arrived.

  I am sorry to interrupt but I want to know something….ummm related to your problem Sir.- Bel said to Baron Brandenburg, then turned to Henriette.- Henriette, father, do any of you know where the files about the incident with the ritual to open the Hel Gate are? The official reports I mean. Are they in the capital?

  -The…reports? They were sent to Gustav to review and then to the capital to….the king.- Said Adrien.

  -Yes! Gustav took them personally to his father, but brought them back to his study for reference.

  -They are here?- Asked Bel.

  -Yes. Why do you ask?

  -A second. Sir. Would you say that opening the Door to the realm of the Dead, knowing Hel would seek to kill the empress, be consider treason for anyone in Embla?

  -Yes of course!

  - Well this may be your lucky day, because in those files there is some drawings of some of the people who were at the site and we believe at least one of the people that came for you is one of them and we have witnesses too.

  - Are you sure?- Asked Adrien.

  - I trust the info…information, I came to give the report to my father on their stead, but I think we need to check the files first.Father if you need the witnesses, they are some of the men in the army. Ask Aleen to tell you who they are. Still I think you should go right now to look at the reports I am sure Lord Gulbrandsen will be able to identify the perpetrator.

  - Of course. They are in our study. This way.- Henriette said and hurried to the door. She was followed by both men.

  -Henriette. I will go tell Gustav and …I also need to ask him some questions before I return to the kids.

  -Of course. Thank you.

  -Thank you Lady Andreas.

 ==Oh don’t thank me yet…==

  -It is a team effort Sir. I hope the information can help you.

  Bel watched them go before she entered Gustav’s room. The healer was not there. She closed the door behind her and locked it silently.

  - Gustav. Sorry to bother you. I came for a couple of reasons. I have reasons to believe some of the people who came for the Baron were part of the Death Cult that opened the door. Henriette is getting the files with the drawings. They may save the Baron.

  -How do you know this?

  - I am just the messenger from the actual witnesses. At least one of the soldiers who were there is here and pointed the guy out.

  -Good. We can save a good man and bring the assassins to justice.

  -You think we can get Embla to make an extradition so they can be brought to justice here?

  - We can hope. I can ask for it.

  -Good…Gustav…-Bel took a deep breath and looked the man in the eyes. - Did you know your father wanted my husband dead specifically?

  -What do you mean?

  - His...someone close to him who died and had nothing to lose told me…He overheard him say he wanted Alfonse dead…but it was fine if you died too…He said it was within his plans. He heard this when he was talking to the priests apparently.

  -No…no…why would I know this… We were not allowed to be there when he planned the ritual to seal Hel back inside…He said that? This man?

  -Yes. Before he died Gustav. I don’t think he was lying. Gustav… When you told me you thought he wanted you dead… he really was hoping for Alfonse to save you…I did not want to ask why your father would want you dead in the first place… I thought it was family matters and as concern as I was for you I felt it was not my place to ask, but now it is my business.- Gustav listened bewildered still by the news but concentrated and thought for a minute.

  -He had his heir. A young heir he could manipulate. With me out of the picture he would be able to send Henriette away and keep Alfonse.

(gasp) ==That was why Henriette wanted to protect Alfonse!? She understood this would happen if Gustav died! She just never thought it would be intentional…but why…==

  -I see…So why could he want my Alfonse dead?

  Gustav looked away and swallowed.

  - I did not think my father would get to this length…He was very unhinged at the end it appears…He was ever the obsessed man over his work. Sometimes fanatical about our history. He wanted to be a hero to his people.This was the reason we did not tell him the truth until the end. Did Henriette give you a weapon to defend yourself?

  -Yes. It is in her room.

  -It is a sacred weapon that only one person can use. This person is never of this world.

  -…

  -We found a diary in a hidden study. It belongs to the first King Lif. Do you know who he was?- He asks.

- I’ve read about him.==I was married to his number one fan, of course I know who he was. ==- Bel thought. She herself found him a very interesting person and the passion for Askran history Alfonse showed had rubbed off on her.

- In the diary there were instructions on how to get the weapon that rested in his tomb. There were instructions on how to call the hero the weapon belongs to. Henriette…called you those years ago. We did not know the ritual had worked until we heard my cousin Alfonse was getting married and he told us you were not of any of the known worlds.

  -So…that gun is mine? But why call me… I mean I am not complaining…just…I would like to know.

  -The hero is usually called during war time…Henriette…just wanted to try and see if it worked.  We thought it had been a mistake but we could not do anything to fix it because by then you were already willing to stay and was…well already married to Alfonse. We were mistaken but by the fact that we could not see the truth and tell you the truth as well. Hel came and we were not ready.

  -You mean to say that gun is strong enough to kill Hel?

  -In theory, but that is not the main purpose. You see, that weapon is suppose to summon heroes from other worlds and they are supposed to obey you. You are the chosen hero. The legendary Summoner of Askr who can summon heroes and make contracts with them to fight for you. Those heroes form an army that along with our army could finish Hel.

  -Oh…It could have been useful. Why didn’t you tell me…wait…Alfonse knew this? Because he said to me something weird. He asked me to promise him that no matter what I heard I would take my child with me and protect her…almost like someone would try to convince me otherwise.

  -He did not know until the day you were attacked. I suppose he was referring to us telling you to fight . We did not tell you before because…- He sighs.-We did not want my father to know. We knew what would happen if he knew… and we were right. I did not think he would go to this length. The reason my father wanted Alfonse dead was because he wanted to control you and your power.

  -Alfonse is dead…because of me? How did he know? Who told him?-Bel’s eyes welled up with unshed tears.

  -No! Bel…it is not your fault…it is…It IS MY fault…mine alone. I failed my cousin in every way possible. The truth is that it was thanks to you that we were able to rescue you all to begin with. Hel wanted to…Kill the heirs of Lif and that means that she wanted my son dead. That was the reason Hel was besieging the castle. My father was not interested in rescuing you. We did not know Hel was here because he would not even let anyone send any more messenger and much less people. It was the garrison we left in the city who informed us. For my father, coming to rescue you was a waste Bel… it pains me to say this about my father…but I told Henriette you needed to know…as ugly a truth as this is. My father was convinced that the most important part of this war was to protect the cities in the South and contain Hel here. Except the dead kept coming but Hel was nowhere to be found. At the time he did not know who you were, my father was willing to let my family die since I am young enough to…-He paused. Bel made and angry noise and tears started rolling down her cheeks. She was disgusted and about to comment something but Gustav kept on going.

- Alfonse was very worried and very angry and understandably so. I heard him telling the most loyal of his men to get ready and I knew he was about to rescue you. This was my chance to save my own family so I prepared myself and wrote a note …that was my mistake…I wrote a note to my father to be given to him much later. I wrote to him about you. I knew he would do what ever he could to get to you and rescue you once he knew who you were. My idea was that I would go with Alfonse and use his plan. I believed whatever he would come up with would work but I wanted to make sure to have my father come to rescue you and be a distraction or back up. I did not get to tell Alfonse the plan, because the note was given to my father right away before we could make it out of camp. It is thanks to you my children, my family is safe…I owe you…so much…and Alfonse…

-You should have known every one would be on your father’s side…

-You are right…I have no excuse but the faith I had in my servants and how foolishly I thought something like this would pass under his notice.If it helps…Adrien had my servant executed …I wanted to do it myself…but he had the right to do it.

-I wish I could hate you all…I can’t even do that…I have nothing…not one to take out this anger I feel …

-I would not blame you if you hated me…but please do not hate Henriette, she…it is not her fault.

-I don’t hate you…do you think I don’t know…how your father treated you. Gustav… you were the only one who could not see…it is not your fault…my Alfonse loved you enough to give his life for you…I have to go. I don’t want Oly to be alone…Is there something else I should know?

Gustav looked at the ceiling and thought about it. He had thought about telling her everything he knew but the truth would only get worse and he did not want to involve his son in this more than he already had. If something happened between them, which he was sure was a slim chance by what Henriette had told him, then it would be something natural. He had to lie once again and he hated himself for it.

 -No. Not that I remember.

-Fine…I better go now.

-Bel? Where is his sword? - He asked suddenly.- Henriette said to me that she saw Alfonse holding it.

-Yes…he…I don’t know why he asked to hold it for me for the night…I don’t know where he put it. I have not seen it since. He must have seen…I think he…I think he thinks I was going to…I will let him keep it for now…- She said looking at her feet. She had just realized what she had been about to do last night and was ashamed of herself. Gustav’s eyes widen at the confession.

-Oh…Yes. I am sure he will care for it. He is a very responsible young man.

-Yes he is…I owe him more than I can pay…-Bel said and left the room. Gustav was left wondering the situation. He felt tears roll down to wet the bandages still covering his face. He had never cried this much in his life and he had never felt such shame and gilt.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Alfonse looked at Oly. Just like with Bel he was afraid for her. He remember the last time his father had played with him and how he felt the day his grandfather had told him, he was not a child anymore to ask his father to play with him. His father had never been the same since. For years he had felt like his heart was inside a place that the light of the sun could not reach. He had never told Sharena when she was finally allowed to interact more with him, that she had been like a light in a dark tunnel. He did not want for Oly to feel that way.

Oly was smiling at her nanny but not as brightly as she always did. He found himself looking at her big dark eyes. They were big intelligent lights that seemed to sparkle even more than his blue ones. He wondered how she managed to make black look brighter than blue and came to the conclusion that she must have a mysterious magic hidden inside. It must be something like that because every time he was with her and she touched his hand or said something kind to him he would feel like his stomach was dancing and his face felt very hot.

  He turned to the door to see Bel coming inside the room quietly. Her eyes were red. He immediately told himself she had been crying away from Oly just like he sometimes did to not upset Sharena. Her full attention was on Oly who was telling nanny Bertha about the books he had found in other languages in the basement library and all the stories she had been able to tell them.

  -Right Sharena?

  -Yes. Alfonse said it was e very old language called Latin but he is still studding it and could not translate it all.

  -Ah! And did my Lord bring the books with him?

  Alfonse looked at the smiling face of nanny Bertha when he heard her mention him.- No. I left them in the place I found them at, but I already asked for permission to go back after the…after the place is safe to enter it again. I can not go by myself.

  -Mami and I can go with you Alfonse! And Sharena can come and we will be a lot of people and will be very safe together. Right Mami!

  -Yep! As long as your mother says it is fine to go inside we can go. We can take Aleen and Feraht with us.

  - My Lady… I wanted to ask how my Lord is.

  -Um…Oh he is not in the castle.- Said Bel avoiding Bertha’s eyes. Instead she looked at Oly who was looking down at her hands. She was about to suggest they leave before Oly started crying and Bertha suspected something was up, when she heard Alfonse speak.

  -Oly? Maybe we should let your nanny Bertha rest.- He said holding Oly’s hand in his. Oly raised her face to look at him and was met with a very sweet shy smile. She could not help feel good every time he smiled at her and so she smiled back and nodded.

  -Can we go play at the central garden yet?- Asked Sharena. Feraht said they could and they all left the room after giving nanny Bertha their thanks for saving them and hugged her.

Adrien came to them after lunch time. He looked upset and asked to talk to Bel. The meeting with the Emblan group had gone mostly as planned. Henriette had been awesome it seems and together they had managed to lift the Baron’s death sentence and had given the files to the Commanding General who was the head of the group. Since he was in charge of the case he had assured them that the sentence would only be given for disobeying direct orders not to cross the border and such. The most the Baron would get was to be stripped of his place in line for the throne.The general had apprehend two of the three Sect members in their group.

==” The heir and his bitch will die for this! Lif and his Summoner will die!!!”== Adrien Shivered at the memory of what the man had screamed at him when he was being taken prisoner. His eyes were those of a madman.

- I am afraid one of them escaped daughter…and…I also fear they know who you are.

-What do you mean?

-They know you are the Summoner of Askr. They will seek to destroy you.

-The …Oh…how do they even know? I didn’t even know until like two hours ago! Did everyone know except for me?

-There must be a sect member among us and I am afraid this person overheard either one of our conversations or the King’s…The truth is…the King was overly enthusiastic about you…he told me several times during the battle how sorry he was to have not met you personally. Someone must have heard him. Daughter if you are in danger, then surely Oly is as well.

-Oh Hell no! No one is going to touch my baby!

-We have to leave.-Said Adrien. -The funeral will be the day after tomorrow.

-Father…

-I know. There is nothing to bury and no reason to stay. We will hold a ceremony at home. For him and our fallen people.

-OK. That sounds better. Do you think Henriette would let us take Sharena and Alfonse with us for a time? I don’t want Oly to be alone. Being with them is good for her and I am sure Henriette has a lot to do now that the Kingdom is mostly on her shoulders. They will have no time for the kids and they have been neglected long enough.

- I am sure she will agree with you. - Adrien looked at the kids playing tag. They were not even aware of the plume of smoke from the funerary pyres in the family graveyard. Alfonse looked so much like his son. Henriette had told him Gustav had talked to Bel about everything but their belief that Alfonse was the reincarnation of the first king Lif and their bond as his Summoner. She had also told him Bel had tried to end her life and Alfonse had stopped her. Adrien understood her too well but he also had instructed Feraht to keep an eye on her. He did not think she would try something again, but wanted to be sure of it. He though he would not be able to withstand losing another family member. This situation had him wondering too. How close were Bel and little Alfonse? There was a sure connection between them. He could plainly see it but to him it seemed that they loved each other like mother and child.

 Henriette was too busy with official businesses, the military and Gustav to care for some other matters, so Bel had taken over the house hold cleaning and the kids had been with her most of the time helping out in their own way. Manual work took her mind off of her dark thoughts, just like before, when she was little.

That night they all slept together again. Gustav had been moved to his chamber and Henriette would sleep on her room. They were connected by the parlour. Bel took the kids to the room Alfonse and her used every time they came to visit. The bed was big enough for the four of them. The night was beautiful and stars filled the sky and yet the kids woke up again from the same nightmare. Feraht who was sleeping on the floor by the hearth was up in an instant and offered to bring the kids tea or something to sooth them. He went out and as the girls wailed and cried, Bel noticed Alfonse was in shock.

-It was a bad dream! My babies come here. I am here you are safe. Alfonse…Alfonse?- Bel asked the motionless kid.

-It is the same dream…again…

-The library?

-No…I…I …saw…I saw…

-Brother? Did you dream of her too?

  -I…I saw him…but I could not help him and …

  -Brother?

  -Alfonse? Who did you see?

  -I..-Alfonse was about to answer but looking at Oly he shut his mouth and after a moment he added.- The man who was screaming…

  -Who was it brother? I heard him too, but I don’t know who he is.

  Oly was crying softly and listening intently at the two siblings. It was a shock for her to see Alfonse this scared, but she understood it. The woman in the dream was scary enough to make anyone cry.

  -Madam?- Came a voice came from the door.

   Everyone looked up when they recognized the owner. It was nanny Bertha.

  -Bertha? What are you doing up? You should be recovering!- Said Bel still holding Oly and Sharena to her bosom and Alfonse’s hand.

  -I was tired of laying down. I was coming to check on you and bumped into that young man. He looked very flustered and worried, so I asked and he told me everything.- Said the older woman. She walked up to sit on the bed, closer to Alfonse and looked them all over.-Hmp…you think you can hide stuff from me. I helped raise your husband. I have you know that I know well Lord Andreas’ moods and gestures enough to know what is going on. Why did you not tell me the truth? Come here Oly.. You too Sharena.- Bertha took a handful of the two sobbing girls and hugged them. Then looked up to a very chastised Bel and gave her a look that said to pay attention to the quiet boy. Bel looked at Alfonse. He looked so small and frightened. She hugged him as well and felt him flinch.

  -Nanny! My Daddy!…- Sobbed Oly and Sharena cried louder.

  -There, there, my dears. Alfonse loved you and protected you till the end. There is no bigger proof of his love to you. He will be watching you still along with Lord Askr.- At this Bel felt Alfonse stiffen.

  - I need to…I need to …go…cousin Bel can I go…I need your help with… - Alfonse said quietly.

  Bel nodded and Alfonse got off the bed and hurried to the bathroom with Bel following behind. When she entered he looked out of the door to the still crying girls, then closed the door.

  -I had the same dream they did…- Alfonse said looking at his feet. He had no shoes on, only his socks.- I did not want to scare them any more that they were already. Why did we dream the same thing?

  -I don’t know why, but it is strange, and if you had the same dream again then..

  -It was not entirely the same…this time I did not die right away…

  - Excuse me …WHAT? What did you say? Why didn’t you tell me?

  -I…I was going to but…Do not be angry…I did not want to bother you, because you were very busy.

  -No Alfonse. I am not angry at you. I am worried and I thought we were friends.- He nodded and looked more at ease.- Alfonse you know your mother and father are busier than most parents and that is why you do not see them as much as other kids may do, and I am afraid they will be even busier when your father becomes king, but I want you and Sharena to know that no matter how busy I am; you can always talk to me because you two and Oly are my priority. Do you understand?

  -Yes.

  -Good. Now please tell me about the dreams…both of them.

  -The first dream was just like the others said…We were playing and happy and then…then She came… It is a …woman…but she is not human. You can see her bones inside… she is made of lilac colored crystal and the bones are inside her…She ran so fast at me and…I know she killed me because I could see myself on the ground dead and I was watching her take Sharena but I could do nothing about it. I screamed but no sound came from me…but I could hear Oly crying for me and Sharena. I tried moving but I felt like I was trying to swim on …tar…Oly…She was standing there but I am sure she could not move… I also could hear Sharena crying for me to help her, but after a moment her screams ceased and there were new screams. It was a man. He was screaming as if he was being tortured.

  -I see.

  -Tonight…the dream started the same but…we were not playing we…we knew what was coming and we huddled together. I stood at the front of the other to protect them…and she did not… this time she took me instead of Sharena but when we reached the edge of the fores, it was not the forest anymore. It look like a dark stone room and …it was very dark but I could see him…It was cousin Alfonse…I could not see what she was doing because she was behind me holding me by the shoulders, but he was in pain and she was laughing at him and she said “You are next!”. And that is when I woke up. I could do nothing to help him…I just stood there watching, unable to move from fear…

  Bel hugged Alfonse when she noticed he was trying very hard not to cry.

  -Alfonse, you can cry. What you are telling me sounds horrible and scary and it is alright that you were scared. It is very understandable… Don’t be ashamed.- She wanted to reassure him that it was just a dream, but she could not. Alfonse was not told Hel had taken his uncle. He did not know and here he was telling her all of this. She was praying it was just a dream because the thought of Hel taking Alfonse to torture him was the most horrible thing she had ever heard of and the feeling of uselessness she felt was going to drive her insane.- Do you want to stay here a while?- Alfonse was thinking about it when they heard a knock on the door.

  - My Lady a word? I need to talk to you.- Bel heard Bertha say from behind the door. Alfonse dried his tears and nodded. She opened the door and Bel saw that Deana was in the room now with Feraht, serving tea. Bertha came inside and closed the door.

  - My lady. Were you able to see Hel before you went into the library?

  -No. Why?

  - Your Highness? How did the woman in the dream looked like?- Bertha asked. Alfonse answered. He described even the dress she was wearing and the sound of her laugh. Bertha’s face became white as a sheet and looked sick.

  - My Lady. Before I was taken to the pantry where we were hiding in, we were able to see her through a window. That woman the children are dreaming of is Hel.

  -And she has my uncle!- Alfonse said.- She is hurting him.- He added angrily. He did not look as scared but angry. Bertha looked at him and then at Bel.

  -There is something not many know about this and I did not tell Alfonse.The reason we did not have a wake for Alfonse the way I would have wanted and the reason his coffin will be empty is, because we don’t have his body …Hel took his body when she left…There was no way for them to know this…- Bertha looked about to vomit and Alfonse looked a little lost and overwhelmed by emotions. Bel drew him in again for another hug.

  - We need to talk to Henriette. She must know more about this, or she could point us towards research about it.I just don’t know if we should tell my father.

  -Lord Andreas is very strong and wise. We should not hide it from him.

  -Good. We tell him tomorrow…but not Oly. Let us get some tea. Do you feel better Alfonse?- Asks Bel. Alfonse thinks about it and then nods, lets go of Bel and opens the door. Bel stops him and asks him to let her see his injured shoulder. She had seen him flinch when she touched him there and the uninjured one. His partially healed shoulder was an angry red again and there were bruises forming on both his shoulders as if someone had gotten hold of him forcefully. Bel showed the bruising to Bertha who paled at the sight and made some signs of protection just the way Bel had seen her do when she was talking about something evil. It reminded Bel of crossing oneself, the way her grandmother used to do.

  -It was her…What if he is alive aunt Bel?

  -==I wish!== Your father saw him die and… his sacrifice sealed Hel again. There is no possibility of him being alive.- Bel told Alfonse tears rolling down her cheeks. Alfonse nodded and lowered his face. He was a little ashamed to be seen crying again.-I better take him to a healer and show Henriette.- Bel dried her tears and Alfonse’s so she could go out to talk to the girls.

  -Show her first my lady. I will keep Oly and Sharena busy.

  Bel went out and went to kiss Oly and then Sharena and explained to them that she had to take Alfonse to the healer because he had aggravated his shoulder and was in pain.

  Oly and Sharena looked worried and for a moment they forgot about the dream while both of them asked various questions about his wound. Bel reassured them that they were going to fix him right up and that they would come back as soon as possible.

  Bel and Alfonse went to Henriette’s room first. Bel knew she was tired but she should know about it and wanted her to see for herself while the bruises were still fresh and the memory. She was very worried about the kids but as nanny Bertha said Alfonse was the only one getting hurt.

  As expected Henriette looked like she had not slept in days. Bel understood but as much as she wanted to just take care of this problem by herself she did not want to commit the mistake of leaving Henriette in the dark for longer than necessary. This was not a regular problem.

  -Henriette. I am sorry to come to you at this hour. I know you are tired, but I think you should know this. It is very important.- Henriette was looking both at Bel and at Alfonse in quiet curiosity but also tiredness. She noticed Bel was holding Alfonse’s hand in both of hers in such a caring way. She let them in and lead them to the adjacent parlour.- The kids…the three of them had the same nightmare for the past two nights…and this night. Alfonse woke up to this.- Bel shows Henriette the finger bruises already turning green and purple. - Guess who they’re dreaming of…

  - How is this possible?!- Exclaims Henriette horrified.

  -Sit down let us tell you the dream as told by each of the kids. I also need to take him to the healers.

  Bel and Alfonse each told Henriette the dreams in detail. Henriette seemed to grow more worried with each word Alfonse said about his last dream. She got up to inspect the bruises and Bel could see her eyes water.

  -How about you? Any bad dreams?- Henriette said going to her nightstand and getting vial of some liquid.

  -Me? No…My mind is a black hole as of now. I usually don’t dream when I grieve like this for some reason…It is like dreams just can’t penetrate the darkness in my mind.- Said Bel watching Henriette apply a salve on Alfonse’s wound and bruises. Alfonse knitted his brows. Her statement seemed wrong for him somehow even when she said in in such a casual way.

  - I suppose that darkness is shielding you from her attack. This is very concerning…It may help to give them a dreamless potion before going to sleep…

  -That sounds like putting a band-aid on a bullet wound… I mean a …sword wound..a deep one…- Henriette looked at her puzzled.- I mean the intrusions may, stop but only as long as they take it and …I mean that is harmful for the mind on a long period of time and what we need is for the actual attacks to stop. The information on how she is doing it and why. What are the implications of this?…She is sealed but she has enough power to influence the dreams of the living…and harm people! Was this possible before? Have you heard about this?

  -You are right…Let me think…

-Wait…maybe it was possible but not with us per say. This may be the way she talks to her followers. I mean…it seems feasible that they have some kind of connection with her or something.

  -…Perhaps…Let me see what I remember from the information given to us by the Elders.- Henriette looks pensively at Alfonse for a while; her mind rummaging for stored information.-…I think.. no but that is only possible with a potion…a special potion …A potion that would have to be administered…by someone close…someone very close…

- Father thinks…we have a spy…or many…- Bel tell Henriette, pauses then ads curious.-Tell me about this potion.

  -When we were doing research at the village the door is located, the village elders gave us a lot of information. The officers never believed any of it and well to be honest neither did Gustav….but it is my responsibility to write everything the way it is told to me so I have all the reports including the village elder’s accounts and information. If I remember correctly the potion requires …oh…

  -What?

  -Come to the library!…No wait I remember I left them here…Let me see…- She went and rummaged in her wardrobe. There was a wooden box, bigger than a shoebox but not decorated at all. It looked very out of place inside the ornate furniture.- I have them here. The papers…- She reached inside the box where a great number of papers were stored. She read through a couple.- Here! Umm…The ritual needed to contact Hel was discovered by one of the guardians about seven hundred years ago, but not one on our side has ever tried it because, if this were to be a true means of communication, conducting it would alert the enemy that we know about it and they may try to shield us from using it again so it has been left as a last resort kind of plan…I am not sure why the elder would think that contacting Hel would be helpful to us.

  -So not one person has tried it but supposedly this is what the enemy use to talk to her?

  -Correct.

  -But what is it that the potions needs?

  -Oh yes! Umm… it is told that the potion needs an item from the person they need to contact. Blood or even a piece of clothing worn by her…but also something like blood or hair from the person contacting Hel so it can establish a link between them.

  -Huh…Good we have the means and now we are left wondering the reason. What do you think Alfonse?

  -Me?

  -Sure! Fresh mind and a very astute one too. -Bel says.. She knows how smart the kid is and she has noticed he was very focused in what the two of you were saying. Alfonse blushes.

  -Umm…well you said there is a spy. If someone gave us the potion to contact Hel…it means they are more visions rather than dreams right?- Bel nodded.- The same person must know why he or she is doing it? If we trap the spy, we can understand their reasons. And they have to be someone that handles the food or drinks…and someone who can take something from us…like hair.

  -Of course! See? That was great help.- Bel tell Alfonse who smiles shyly. Henriette watches this in silence and smiles.- Never anger someone who handles your foods or drinks. That was my mother’s motto.

  After some speculation as of who it may be that was spying on them and some planing they left Henriette. She would tell Gustav in the morning. Alfonse felt his wound hurt less and he even felt good about himself for helping out.

  They went back to the room and after some reassuring that Alfonse was fine and that he just needed some balm and some pain medication they went back to sleep. Deana gave them some dreamless sleep potion and the dream did not come back.

 The next day Bel and Alfonse got Adrien up to date while the girls were getting ready to go get breakfast. By this time most of the people had returned to the city and the less injured people were leaving for town. The repair had started on the broken walls and the preparations for the royal funerals were ongoing.

  Adrien wanted to leave and so did Bel but after the talk they both came to the conclusion that whatever the cult was trying to do to the kids , it would not stop just because they were away in the mountains. It was better for them to wait and see who the spies were.

  All the time Adrien was directing the Army, Bel spent helping oversee the housework and repairs. She was being aided by Nanny Bertha and the kids who were eager to help. Bel would make it so that the kids were occupied and learned while doing it.

She was asked if she wanted to anything special for Alfonse’s funeral. She really did not want anything to do with the funeral, but thought that since they did not know what she did they would think she did not care about it, therefore she asked only for his favorite flowers to be arranged over his coffin and a small bouquet for each of them to hold. Henriette however told her Alfonse deserved the most respect and told her Gustav wanted something special for him. Bel told her about the flag ceremony done back home.

The funeral was that afternoon. The kids had been so tired of running around the house and helping that Bel let them have a nap. She sat with them on a checkered blanket and prepared a little lunch under the big oak tree. After they ate they started to nod off and Bel let them go to sleep. She sat with her back to the tree trunk where just days before her husband had died. In truth it had been just on the opposite side of the tree. She tried her best to think of the happy memories she had lived here and not of imagining his last moments. She would have taken the kids somewhere else but Oly had asked to do it here. She had said that the tree looked very lonely.

- Mami. Why is the tree crying?- The voice brought Bel back from her memories. She opened her eyes to see Oly standing by her side looking around the tree trunk.

-What is it Mija?

-The tree is crying…I heard it in my dream and it woke me up.

-I am awake and I did not hear it cry mija. It was probably just in the dream.

-It sounded like Papi… but he sounded very sad. He said your name and then mine…but when I peeked around the tree the sound was gone…

-What else did you dream about? Did you see something?

-Oh I dreamed I was going to eat ice cream but my teeth were stuck and then Sharena came and she gave me a goldfish and it turned into a bird!

-Well that sounds like a very normal dream…- Bel says relieved.

-Mami! Fish can’t fly!- Oly said and giggled.

-Girl! I’m talking about nightmares. So you slept better here?

-Yes mami. I want to go back to sleep. If you hear the tree tell me mami.

-Si mija.

Oly laid down by Sharena’s left side and went back to sleep. Bel let them sleep until it was time to get ready for the funeral. The rest of the Royal army had been able to finally reach the city and were ready to to take the body of the King to the capital where he and Alfonse would get a Hero’s welcome at the capital. The idea was discarded when they found out Gustav was unable to be moved and the bodies had been exposed to decay by the high temperatures and humidity. To be honest not one had thought to place him inside the library where they would be cool and dry and the spell would keep him for a longer time.

Bel suggested it to Adrien while they were getting ready. She suggested to place Erland, Njal and Sven’s bodies there to be taken to the mountains. Adrien told her Njal was too damaged to have been preserved and Sven was not found complete. His own retainers had been killed and he had not the heart to tell her how he had found them. Erland would be the only one complete but all of them would be cremated for the ceremony at home.

The funeral was as expected. Formal and respectful. Bel had dressed herself and Oly on those dresses Alfonse liked so much. Unlike Earth, Askr did not required black clothes for funerals or to indicate mourning .

Gustav could be seen slowly making his way to the graveyard at the front of the procession along with Henriette, the priests and the guards. Adrien, Bel and the Kids followed behind them even though closer family members had arrived to the city for the funeral. Henriette had not invited any of them to stay at the house since it was still being repaired.

Bel’s own town home had been used to house Gustav’s aunt on his mother’s side. The older lady was like a mother to Gustav since his own had died when he was young due to a miscarriage. His only living sister was married to a duke who owned lands in the Southern part of Askr. She had three kids of her own that Gustav had only seen twice. She was too far South to be able to come to the funeral even if they had taken his father to the capital. His father had married again, to a woman younger than Gustav in an effort to have more children. This marriage however had remained fruitless until his wife had died in an accident some years ago. Gustav had liked her quiet demeanor and suspected his father had been a tyrant to her inability to bear him another child.

Gustav was tired but he could not show weakness now. It was not even to keep appearances or protocols. He suspected after talking to Henriette, Adrien and Bel that the spies were around waiting for the right time to spring into action. He also wanted to be his best for the sake of respect to his cousin. Gustav was too angry with his father to care about his funeral or paying respect at this point, but it was his cousin’s funeral too and he deserved all the respect from everyone.

With Bel’s information; the Royal Army had been able to arrange the traditional tributes and the added ritual Bel had chosen. Alfonse’s coffin was covered with the Askran flag and also Gustav’s own Royal flag to let everyone know he had saved him. This honor was only given to the royal line or heroes of great importance. In contrast the King’s coffin had only been covered with a flower arrangement. Gustav could already see the people from the city who had come for the funeral talking, but he could not bring himself to care about it. His father did not even deserve to be buried in the family cemetery much less to be buried with honors, but he would not sully the commoner’s cemetery or the rest of his family’s honor because of him. Adrien had asked him to keep quiet about the incident. He did not want more attention over his family and he would keep that promise.

His side ached like nothing ever had hurt him before. It was strange because he had had broken ribs before but never had he felt such pain. His suspicions were confirmed when the royal healers told him his wounds were not mending correctly. In fact they were not mending at all. He does not have the heart to tell Henriette as of yet, so he toils on down the road to the family graveyard while the quiet sobs of one small child breaks his heart even more. He is not brave enough to look back at Bel and much less Oly who bravely wanted to walk and just hold on to her mother’s and Sharena’s hands.

Once in the graveyard they went to put his father to rest. He performed the traditional ceremony but bypassed some of the things he could. His father was buried in the newest mausoleum in the cemetery farthest from the center. They then passed to bury his cousin empty coffin in a separate place. It felt to him like it was a dishonor to have them buried together. He knew he was not there but inside the coffin rested one of his favorite books, training swords and other personal belongings. Gustav had ordered to have King Lif’s own mausoleum opened to have his memory rest there.

That had been a surprise on Adrien and he knew that was not only an honor but also a defiance on Gustav’s part. With this , his first act as King he was defying tradition and destiny.

Adrien looked down at the now prince Alfonse. The child looked on at the mausoleum with awe and respect, but he saw in his eyes a sadness and loneliness he remember seeing before, not only on the mirror but on his own son Alfonse when his wife had passed away. A loneliness and sadness only Bel and Oly had dissipated.

When the coffin was laid on one of the carved niches inside the tomb Adrien, Bel and Oly were to enter the tomb and leave the flowers over the coffin, but Oly had taken hold of Alfonse and he had to enter with them and Sharena had followed too.

Adrien noticed then Oly left her bouquet, but kept a flower with her and so did Bel who was even reluctant to leave the flowers there. At the end two officers were suppose to come inside and fold the flags. The officers made way and Gustav and Henriette came inside instead in what was the outmost show of respect. Together they folded the first flag and handed it to Adrien and then the second one and handed it to Bel. Bel looked down to the royal crest on her white, royal blue and gold expanse. This flag was only given to other members of royalty and Bel was sure it would go to Adrien. She thought it meant she was now the Viscountess and left it at that.

 They filed out of the tomb reluctantly. Bel with the flag hugged to her heart and holding Oly with the other. She looked back to see Gustav standing by the coffin. He looked so sad.

  After the funeral Bel took Oly to the garden and stood by the ancient tree trunk. Alfonse had followed with Sharena in tow and they stood by their side as mother and child left the flowers by the tree trunk. Bel had told him this had been the place where his cousin had fallen. As he watched both his cousin and Oly, Alfonse came to the realization. The dreams had started by this tree… and now he understood the connection.

AN: By this point you probably realized this is a self ship in a way, so the memories from Bel's life are actually my own along with the feelings and personality. My precious Oly is my best friend whom has adopted me as mother since I am a mother hen friend to her. XD

[z-h-i-e]

I finally managed to log into Chewy and memorialize all the pets yesterday.

And yes, all is accurate — all of the pets we had when 2024 began are no longer with us. If we go back a smidge to 2023 that includes Aredhel as well. This post has a happy ending of sorts, but it definitely starts rough.

Princess Paige was a sweet little bean — she was born blind and abandoned at the humane society at age 7. We adopted her six months after Trotter passed—because she looked a lot like him (we’ll get back to that).

We only had her for 18 months. It turned out she had kidney failure, but by the time that was recognized (it was misdiagnosed as allergies for many many months), we only had a few weeks left with her. We set up home hospice and made it the best final weeks we could.

At the same time, the grand queen, Oreo, had some sort of something occur. Oreo was already 20 nearing 21, and when she was 18 had an absolute fit about the vet to the point the vet declined to draw blood because she was just too angry, plus her age.

She was an eating champ up until the end. She actually bounced back for a couple of months and outlived Paige by five weeks. She had the most peaceful death of anyone I have ever known. I went out to pick up a rotisserie chicken for her, couldn’t find one, stopped home to check in before driving out further, and while talking to Smaug, realized she had passed away in her sleep while lying right next to him while he was reading. Just drifted off.

This upset Felix a little. He used to ride around on her back. Both were in their 20s; they were the last two pets that went back to our apartment dwelling days.

The next day, General Patters — who was very close to Paige, but never seemed close to Oreo — was not going to let us take her remains for cremation. He stood over her with a very determined and angry look (and Patters never got angry). Patters was 14, and while he’d been treated for a thyroid condition for several years, was otherwise doing quite well.

I spent the summer immersed in research about the silmarils to write the paper I presented at Oxonmoot. Both Patters and Felix kept me company. Also, an outdoor cat had brought her kittens into our yard not long after Oreo passed, and following cat conversation through the door between herself and Patters. Patters began to insist on outside time, where I would take him out and hold him while he watched the kittens playing. (Patters was himself a stray cat for a number of years.)

Near the end of September, he suddenly dropped weight and didn’t want to eat; we rushed him to the vet. Blood was drawn, though the vet was not hopeful, as she discovered a huge lump on his thyroid. The next morning I could tell he was still not well. He wanted to be held, and died in my arms that afternoon.

Two days later, I came home to find Felix on the bottom of his cage. He had suffered a stroke. He had had seizures over the past few years, but the vet had told me that for a lovebird of his years, he was doing quite remarkable (he was born in April of 2000). I nursed him in a special ‘hospital cage’ beside my bed for a little over a week. He showed improvement; two days before he passed, we watched Judge Judy together, and he made some artwork. He had a subsequent stroke late the next evening. I sat up with him until 3am, when we both tried for sleep; he woke me four hours later, and I can’t share the details even now because it’s quite painful to have a pet who can communicate and to know and understand and to try to comfort them when they also know and understand what’s happening on a level different from cats and dogs. I don’t think I can ever again own a pet that can communicate with words we both understand. He was an absolute joy, and it’s of importance to know that when I adopted him (and his mate, Oscar, who passed way some six years ago), it was because he chose me — by flying out of his cage and perching on my shoulder, and that was where he often was when I was at home (unless he was riding Oreo around).

We also lost the photogenic neighborhood cat, Cthulhu. Cthulhu was a stunning longhair cat who would take walks with neighbors, pose for photos, and was generally the mayor of the neighborhood. I spoke with Cthulhu’s owner once, who explained that Cthulhu was a cat who wanted to be out during the day to basically wander about and greet everyone. A jellicle in every sense. I don’t know the details, but Cthulhu had a very adventurous life.

So where is the happy in all this?

We went from having the oldest group of pets we’ve had (two 20+ year old pets at the same time seemed remarkable, with one nearly making it to 25), to the youngest group of pets.

But for the loss of the others we would not have gained three baby animals.

This is Priscilla Licoricewhiskers, a 4H bunny who was too tiny to be shown. She couldn’t be kept with the other buns because they ganged up on her. She is getting to live her best life as a spoiled rabbit. (Potty training is still a bit work in progress.)

And this is Pollux…

…and Castor. (I can’t get photos of them out of the enclosure yet because they are into running up and down the stairs). Our vet’s office assistant called us a few days after Patters passed away—in fact, his remains were still there awaiting cremation when she called us. Someone arrived with four abandoned kittens, three weeks only, but they only wanted to keep two, and the no kill shelters were all beyond capacity. We brought them home to foster them (but we all know what happened next). And now they live here rent free, as cats do.

So yesterday I finally went through and memorialized pet accounts because I got a bunch of cyber Monday messages with ‘great deals’ for pets who don’t have use of all the things being offered.

And today, I am trying to figure out where the hell I left off on fanfiction because with the exception of a couple S&D things I have done nothing for six months with fanfic.

[danna-kurt]

Memoir

The Missing King Piece: Checkmate by Love

The volcano erupted, my tears flowed with lava when my father left. This is the highlighted page in the book that I’ll never forget. A wound that, even though the scars have healed, is still marked in my heart. Yesterday’s complexities have resurfaced in my mind. But in life, one must endure intense trials before finding happiness or success, just like the process of refining silver.

When my father left when I was in grade 4, I am a siren for crying out loud, piercing the air with urgent walls. It wasn’t clear to me what they fought about, but one thing was certain for me, that in a marriage, disagreements are unavoidable. My father left because of some disagreements with my mother. He stayed with his sibling at that time. From what I remember, the night before my father left, I woke up to find him by my side as I slept. It turned out to be the last time I was with him before he left. The next morning, my father was getting ready, his clothes packed, freshly dressed, and ready to fly away from our home. And so, he left, and I was left with my mother, sibling, and grandmother.

When my father left, it felt like the weight of the planets Earth and Mars had fallen on my mother’s shoulders, and she carried it all. She was the breadwinner of the family and also had to manage household chores. Though tiring, like the earth, she needed the sun to have energy, and my grandmother became the sun for my mother. She was the one who brought happiness to my mother and strengthened her spirit. If the sun could speak, it would tell my mother, “Don’t worry, you’re strong!” Additionally, it would say to my grandmother, “Thank you for being the sunshine for your child, you are a good mother who nourishes her child with love.”

During that time, my grandmother was in our care, and my mother took care of her. It felt good that the mother and daughter were taking care of each other and exchanging love and affection without even asking for it. Moreover, these were the times when my grandmother’s favorite dish was spaghetti cooked by my mother. This dish couldn’t be surpassed by any expert chef because its secret ingredient was genuine and unconditional love.

On the other hand, before my father left, he used to be our escort to and from school. It was exciting to come home after studying, knowing you would see your father, and your smile would reach the skies and even the outer space when you saw him. I was excited to go home. However, because my father was no longer there, my mother asked our neighbor to be our service instead. Sadly, it felt different. There was no joy anymore. Our neighbor wasn’t at fault, and he was actually helping us. But it was hard to adjust. If before, your smile reached the skies, when my father left, the happiness was taken back, and the smile that reached the skies bounced back to the ground, burying the word happiness for me.

How can I be happy if you’re incomplete? It felt like a missing piece to complete a puzzle. I remember, before our father left, we used to bond every afternoon. My father would tell jokes and act as a comedian. He would ask riddles for my sibling and me to answer, and I always lost. I used to get upset whenever I lost during that time. I also remember that to prevent myself from getting upset, my father would help me win against my sibling. Whenever we played chess, I didn’t like it because I always lost. When I was close to being checkmated or losing to my sibling, I would call my father to turn the situation around, and because my father was so skilled at chess, my sibling would lose, and I would win because he fought for me. It could be said that my sibling became a good chess player because of his teacher – my father.

When my father left, it was almost Christmas break. When the Christmas break came, I didn’t feel the Christmas atmosphere, there was no excitement, no fun at all. On the flip side, my mother did everything she could for the sake of us siblings. She even learned how to drive a tricycle. She learned quickly. I remember during that time, when we tried going out and she drove the tricycle, she was good at driving, but when it came to parking, we bumped into the wall. She really worked hard for our sake, and that situation reminded me that she’s selfless and determined to climb invisible mountains, willing to grope in the darkness.

Just like a chessboard, my mother is like the queen. She can move wherever she likes because she’s a strong independent woman. However, you can’t play chess without the king. Furthermore, we celebrated Christmas as a family without the king. We also expected that my father might not return. The new year came, and we still didn’t have my father with us. But one day, before going back to school, that day was January 2, I heard the sound of a tricycle "vroom-vroom" stopping in front of our house. I opened it and saw my father. He was the passenger of the tricycle driver. When I saw him, I hugged him tightly. He came back! The king was back to his kingdom! We were happy! Although my mother still felt bad, she let my father come back because she knew we needed him. Soon after, they reconciled.

Because of this, my father became our escort to and from school again. The buried joy resurfaced and not only reached the skies and outer space but also the moon. The puzzle was completed, and we could play chess again because the king was here. The bonding was back, and we became an even stronger family. Happy parents, happy children! I realized that family stays together! There are disagreements, but love finds a way to solve all the obstacles! Through love, the disagreements can turn into agreements! Misunderstandings can turn into deep understandings! Differences can turn into unity! My father came back because of love! Love defeated pride! In addition, my father missed us, as much as how we missed him! Finally, the king and queen started to rule the kingdom! The enemies are now checkmate because they ruled the kingdom with genuine love!

[i-hope-youre-hopeful]

Glory to God, and peace on earth

Is it me or is it already getting light a little earlier in the mornings?

This Christmas I learned some piano music from Charlie Brown and I’ve enjoyed playing it terribly. I also did a Christmas Sunday service at Brookside, the Women’s ministry Christmas party, and two Hopewell services, so I’ve been playing a lot of Christmas music. I haven’t even hated it for the most part. At worst I’ve just tuned it out. I digress.

On Christmas Adam I played at Hopewell and then went to Hunter’s house during his family’s Christmas celebration. We went on a walk and hung out with the kids and tried very unsuccessfully to make a gingerbread house. Then I picked up McDonalds and ate and watched tv with my mom. On Christmas Eve I played again at Hopewell and had a lovely time, then I sat for a while with Hunter in the parking lot and then I went home and spent some time with my dad. Eventually I went to my mom’s and took a long and lovely nap and woke up and had Starbucks and watched Medium and made salads for dinner. And Christmas Day I slept in quite late, and then we watched Medium and I ate breakfast and relaxed and talked with Hunter and played Animal Crossing. Then my mom and I opened Christmas presents, I made margarita pizza, and we ate and watched The Holiday. Now I am home and clean and comfortable and when I wake up I will hopefully open presents and have pancakes and watch a movie with my dad. This so far has actually been really lovely and I’m so grateful. I have been struggling but I have just barely achieved some balance and I’m relieved. In spite of my constant anxiety things have worked out as they almost always do.

I have felt anxiety about Christmas for weeks if not months, but especially so this last week. Now I feel anxiety about the week ahead and I am desperately anxious about New Year’s Eve. I am afraid I won’t be able to find balance. Still, I have good plans coming up and what has already happened has gone very well. Whatever happens I know that God is in control and all is well. Please let the best case scenario come to pass and let Your will be done Father.

My God, thank you for providing so well and holding me so close. Thank you for your forgiveness and the opportunities you’ve given me to be close to you. Thank you for the joy I’ve had this season with my family, friends, church, and so on. Thank you for the reason we get to celebrate. For the amazing and wonderful things you have done and are still doing even now. For being born to us, for bringing peace and good will for us. For connecting yourself with us. For connecting Heaven and earth. Thank you for another year that has been incredibly good in spite of the hard times. Thank you for everything you’ve brought to me and brought me through and for bringing me safely to the end of another year. Please help everything to work out. Please help me to do what is right. Thank you for guiding me. Thank you that I feel a little more stable this year than last, and that there is joy even in the liminal space between what is now and what is to come. Thank you for the Now, Not Yet. All Glory to You, my Father, and peace on earth for those with whom you are well pleased.

[agent-sushi-fbi]

Danny decided that he was never getting drunk again. Holy shit did Dora have good alcohol in her castle but that was dangerous. He could barely remember the night before, fuzzy images of stumbling around his apartment building and going up to the roof were the first things he could recall.

But then as he hit his head (bad idea) to jog his memory, Danny freaked out as he realized he ran into Red Hood and drunkenly yelled at the vigilante for “stealing” Jason away from him.

Jason wasn’t even Danny’s for someone to steal him!

He was pretty sure Red Hood had been laughing at him under the mask and it had annoyed Danny at the time. Still did. But he also recalled the myriad of emotions he felt when Hood confirmed for him that Jason was not in fact in a relationship with the vigilante.

It was pure relief and joy all mixed in with the initial shock that he may have a chance with the absolutely gorgeous man who lived down the hall.

But then Danny promptly passed out on the roof and he could only assume Red Hood brought him home. How he knew which apartment was Danny’s he had no clue, and didn’t want to know. He preferred to stay away from people with stalker tendencies when he could.

But as Danny woke up from his post drunken stupor, he felt nervousness tingling his arms all the way to his bones. His heart was pumping faster than it had since he died, he was actually a little concerned with how fast it was beating honestly. Yet he didn’t care, because Jason was single and wasn’t dating Red Hood who Danny could never compete with.

He had a chance. He was going to take it.

Deciding to throw caution to the wind, he went without changing his clothes and ran out of his apartment. He didn’t pay attention to the rats nest on his head or the day old clothes or the wine breath. All he could think about was Jason.

Skidding to a stop outside the man’s door, Danny knocked quickly and patted down a bit of his hair while he waited. Not the best impression, but he was working off courage and if he stopped to groom he’d lose his chance.

The door opened to reveal an adorably rumpled Jason Todd, hair mussed and pajamas wrinkled. The taller man squinted through sleep encrusted eyes, obviously just woken up from a short rest. Danny felt kinda bad but he also got to see this side of Jason so he didn’t feel that bad.

“Good morning,” he breathlessly whispered. He couldn’t stop staring at Jason.

The other man blinked a few times and rubbed the sleep from his eyes before focusing on Danny. Jason flicked his eyes over Danny’s figure, and he flushed realizing Jason was checking him out.

“Hmmm, good morning Danny,” he responded. Oh Ancients the man’s voice got even deeper when he first woke up, the low timbre sending shivers down Danny’s arms.

“So-sorry to wake you up this early, I uh, um—I was drunk last night and,” Danny stammered, not knowing what to actually say now that he’s made it this far. Jason simply smirked at him, yawning and casually leaning against the door frame as he woke up a little more.

“Yeah? Must’ve been some good shit if you fell asleep in your clothes,” Jason smiled. He had such a pretty smile.

Focus Fenton.

All he had to do was calmly tell Jason how amazing he thought he was and that he would be interested in pursuing a relationship. Would Jason want to go on a date with him too? Or was he dreaming out of his league? Danny was slender and probably what some would call a “twink” whereas Jason was a walking Adonis.

Okay Fenton, deep breath now. Just be cool.

He opened his eyes to Jason staring at him and his mind went blank again.

“I think you’re really pretty do you wanna go out with me?” He blurted out in a rush.

What the fuck Fenton?

Danny began mentally panicking until he saw Jason’s face turn red and the man coughed into his hand. He paused his freak out and watched as Jason shuffled in his spot by the door jam.

“I think you’re pretty too,” the man whispered. Probably thought Danny couldn’t hear him but he didn’t know about ghost ears. Clearing his throat he continued in a louder voice, “How about I cook dinner tomorrow night? Say, about seven?”

Danny nodded numbly and Jason smiled at him again. God what that man’s smile could do.

Alcohol

A drunk Danny proposes and Jason has a short circuit.

Note: I don't know English, I wanted to share my idea and used Google Translate. Note 2: Warning for terrible writing skills and character characterization, at least I think you get the idea, I think. T-T

Jason x Danny …

Love is complicated. Danny had inevitably fallen for his handsome, cool neighbor: Jason, the problem? His neighbor dates the equally handsome and cool Red Hood.

His heart broke instantly. So to get over his broken heart Danny decides to drink the wine that Princess Dora sent him.

He drank too much, and apparently ghostly alcohol can do what human alcohol can't: get him drunk.

That's how a drunk Danny somehow got to a rooftop and found Red Hood. His love rival. Worst of all, Danny can't even object to Jason's decision to date the anti-hero, because Red Hood is Red Hood and Danny is Danny.

Oh…

Danny became depressed and now he is crying in front of the guard.

The guard panics. He tries to calm Danny down by saying nice things, but Danny cries more. Jason officially hates himself. How did he make his pretty, tender neighbor cry?

And suddenly his drunk Danny screams: "it's all your fault!" That's when Red Hood freezes. Exactly what is his fault?

Danny continues: "You-You…he loves you! Silly, silly, why did he have to like you? I love him more." Oh, that's the problem. His Danny is in love with a bastard, and said bastard is apparently in love with Red Hood.

He absolutely doesn't share the same feeling, especially if Danny is crying for him. He briefly wonders if it would be right to hit the guy Danny likes.

"Jason loves you! You should say those words to him" Excuse me, what did you say? "Silly"

Oh, Jason Todd?

"Yes!" He seems to have spoken out loud, because his pretty neighbor responds with a broken voice.

Ha.

Jason has a short circuit. He can't process this; The reason why his neighbor didn't pay attention to his flirting was because he thought he already had a partner. That he (Jason) was dating him (Red Hood)

He should have stopped that rumor from the beginning, so this misunderstanding wouldn't have wreaked havoc on his love life. On the other hand, seeing his adorable neighbor looking like a drunk makes Jason melt.

"Do you think I'm dating…Jason?" His voice is serious, although it is probably not noticeable through the filter of the mask.

Danny nods. "Is a lie." He is amused when he sees the surprise in Danny's eyes, this drunk is adorable. "Just like you, I already have someone I like."

"So you're not dating Jason?" Oh boy. "Can I go out with him? Can I tell him that I like him?"

Jason laughs internally, and says, "You should do it." And he must return to his apartment soon, after all, he will soon receive an important declaration of love.

This is the best day of his life.

Unfortunately his statement won't come tonight, because Danny trips and falls to the ground. Apparently unconscious.

Jason sighs. He will have to wait until tomorrow, while he takes care of picking up his (now) cute boyfriend on his back. That's when he hears him murmur.

"Jason, marry me…"

!!!!!!

"Hahaha, ask me on a date first." He answers her, although he knows that his boyfriend is already in the world of dreams.

He absolutely won't let Danny forget this.

…

I repeat: I don't know English, I wanted to share my idea and used Google Translate.

[dearemmeline]

Chapter 10. The Real Confession ⎯ It seems hard to believe, but we've known each other for two months now. That's not very long in the grand scheme of things, but it's long enough for me to know how much I love you. I remember (but only vaguely now) how my life was before I met you and I never want to go back to that dreary existence again. That was when I had nothing much to look forward to except a pizza delivery and a rented movie on Saturday night, nothing much to get up for in the morning except a day at work. Having had my heart broken twice already, I was becoming something of a hermit. I never wanted to get involved with anyone again. I was to the point where I believed that the "happily ever after" kind of love was only found in fiction and in fairy tales, but then I met you. The mutual attraction we felt for each other that day has changed my life forever. It was almost too much to hope for (because I have such strong opinions about everything), but we even have the same views. We're never at a loss for words or things to talk about that is, when our lips are free to speak. Now I believe in love again, because I believe in you. And I function at warp speed now because, it thrills me to say it, you actually believe in me.

Emmeline, you've brought me so much happiness and joy that I can scarcely contain it all. I'm sure beams of light radiate from me wherever I go. I noticed a few raised eyebrows at work when I started coming in bright and early, smiling and energized, humming some love song I heard on the radio while driving in. A couple of the guys wanted to know what's up with me, but they don't understand I am filled with secrets that cannot be shared or even expressed in words. So, I just told them that I'm seeing someone and it's the real thing this time.

It's very strange because, even when we're apart, I feel that I'm still with you. I remember what it's like to hold you, to kiss you, to make love to you, as those delicious sensations never really leave me. We respond to each other so naturally and completely I believe the Gods must have created us to complete each other's existence. Ours is a union that reaches beyond the mere physical into mystical planes that take my breath away. You are part of my very being now and I could never be complete or whole without you. Tell me I will never again have to return to that mundane existence I knew before I met you.

This morning I woke at dawn, still wrapped in the memory of last night, repeating over and over that line from that old Hollies' song: “Sometimes, all I need is the air that I breathe and to love you.” I know what that means now because I know how that feels now. Emmeline, tell me we can always be together. I really love you.

[kunikinnie]

as requested by the lovely @thatdazaikin decided to do drabbles because why not AHAH tho as usual these are not proofread

seeing you in house clothes for the first time (part 2?)

featuring: Dazai, Fukuzawa x GN!Reader

Dazai Osamu

As per usual, it was the bright sunlight that woke him up. His grief would soon follow; why must his precious, delightful sleep be bothered? But today, the strangely warm and comforting rays appeased the gloom. Through hazy consciousness brought about by an overdose in alcohol, his brain managed to realize there was something different... something odd.

Suddenly, an ethereal figure entered the room. The light seemed to coalesce on its form, obscuring its face with a delicate glow.

"Am I in heaven?"

You stared at him suspiciously. Was he seriously joking first thing in the morning? (Well, it's actually almost noon). But you continued to place down the tray that you were holding beside his mattress.

"You seem to be fine, but you can at least eat a bit before I kick you out."

"What a cruel angel you are."

He gladly took the divine gift and nibbled at it. As physical sustenance slowly filled him up, reality sunk in as well.

He wasn't in his room. He wasn't in heaven either, although it might be a close substitute: Dazai was in your room, and you were sitting right in front of him.

In very casual, strictly-for-home clothing that he's never seen on you before.

"I-is there something wrong?"

Despite your bashful question, he only continued to stare at you. Who knew you were this beautiful even in such a relaxed setting? Perhaps the alcohol from the previous night continued to skew his perceptions, but he was sure that regardless of sobriety he'd always feel the same way about you.

Without a response from him, the small smile that suddenly formed on his face further unsettled and flustered you.

"Nothing is wrong, Y/N. Far from it, in fact."

It truly felt like a dream to him. The warmth that emanated within those walls was nothing compared to what his imagination had come up with; how could something so simple bring this much joy? Is that the magic of love?

He could get used to this, he thought.

Fukuzawa Yukichi (pre-ADA)

The lightest of drizzles felt like the heaviest of showers to him. His injuries slowly ate at his strength, and he knew that he had to seek shelter for the night if he wanted to survive another day. The closest place he could think of was at yours.

He limped to your door, weakly knocking before using the last of his energy to at least not lean on the thin wood. Looking pathetic to you, even in this state, was the last thing he wanted.

Unfortunately, once you finally opened the door, his body collapsed on you.

"F-Fukuzawa-san? What happened?!"

The warmth from your body burned his - was that how cold he was? He couldn't speak; it's as if his throat and jaw were frozen shut.

You painstakingly half-carried half-dragged him into your place, trying to place his body down as gently as possible.

"I'll go get something for you to wear, just wait a bit-"

He wasn't sure how long you were gone, but it felt shorter than a second. You came back with a t-shirt and loose pants that you thought might fit him, or so you said, and asked for his permission to help change him out of his wet clothes.

Only his eyes could still move on their own. He couldn't even whisper a thank you even if his weakening heart had screamed for him to do so.

That's why it annoyed him when he couldn't take his eyes off of you and his mind began to stray; now was the most inappropriate time for this. But try as he might, the way everything was setup - from the way your half-wet house clothes somewhat clung to your body to the way you so tenderly took care of him, food and all - made him feel like a husband being spoiled by his spouse.

"Tell me if you need anything else, okay?"

At that point, the warm food and blankets had finally lent him some strength. There wasn't anything he needed - not immediately, at least - except that you remain oblivious to how disproportionate the color on his cheeks were to the rest of his body.

"I will, thank you."