#travel dest

[inklore]

forbidden cravings

premise: stay in your room; that's all you had to do. a simple demand that you planned on following until something goes bump in the night and you're trapped between two monsters.

pairing: vampire!din djarin x reader x vampire!bo-katan kryze

word count: 5k

contents: blood and biting obviously, oral, threats, murder mention, reader is a little clueless, power imbalance, bo is kinda evil but we love her for it, brief mention of piv.

note: this took me way too long to write and by the end of it i was very tired so hopefully someone out there enjoys this lmao. i could possibly see myself writing more within this little world, maybe.

haunted hoedown day five.

You had never noticed how creaky the house was until tonight. Until you were stuck in a dark, dampened room. Your only light coming from the candle at your bedside, the moon, and the flashes of lightening through the windows. The deep red drapes that match the ones that hang around the four poster bed in the middle of the room, that look ancient and eerie, set your already on edge nerves into a frenzy of fight of flight.

You had dusted this room many times. Have been past the threshold and seen it painted in the daylight. 

But never at night. 

You were prohibited from being here past nightfall. 

The master of the house—your boss—had made it clear upon your first interview a year ago that you’d only be needed in the daytime. That staying after nightfall was not something he needed you around for, and it would be of best interest to the house if you departed once the sun set. 

It’s a rule you questioned little. A rule you were fine and happy to obey. 

It wasn’t your job to question it. It wasn’t your place. 

You were the housekeeper, nothing else. Nothing less. Nothing more. 

And you’d never think of going against the lord of the manor, Din Djarin. 

The infamous inventor. 

The mysterious scholar.

The man with whom you’ve slowly bloomed a friendship with while you’ve worked here. The two of you have spent hours in his library with your fingertips, running along old books, relics he’s come across in his travels, and blue prints for inventions he one day wishes to create. 

The pair of you bonding over the love of old words and worlds you wish you could have been a part of. 

Working for him and being in his home—the dark gray spiraling staircases, the arched doorways, the black and red wallpaper that look hundreds of years old and yet look like they’d just been done yesterday—was a joy. 

A better job than working at the mill or getting by on your looks alone to put food on the table. 

You lucked out. Was honored to get the position and even more honored to befriend the destinguishinly handsome Lord Djarin. 

His staff soon became like a second family to you. A home away from home—a much more beautiful and sprawling home than your own, but a home in all senses of the word. 

Not even the curfew could dampen your love or the job. 

The only thorn in your side, the only downfall—negativity—to working for the Lord was his companion, his wife, Lady Kryze. 

While most days, the two of you would rarely cross paths. Her off on travel, or in the west wing of the house that you seldom find yourself in. 

But when appearance’s were known, brief or not, she always had a look of haughtiness about her. Her red hair laying perfectly on her shoulders, and her dresses always form fitting and beautifully cascading to the floor. The neck line plunged lower than what’s usually considered proper—that always made your cheeks heat when you found yourself rudely staring, a smirk on her lips that quickly got washed away with a scornful arch of her brows. 

She had never been rude to you. Had never demanded of you or treated you unkindly the way one would think when you looked at her intimidatingly beautiful face. The power you know she held with just a look, a twitch of a smile, or the flick of her fingers. 

She was the opposite of Lord Djarin. 

The two seeming an odd match for two people destined to be together. 

Your schoolgirl crush on the Lord of the Manor definitely having little to do with your opinion on the fact. 

It had been Lady Kryze who had suggested you stay. Almost demanding it, with the weather outside being too dangerous to travel. The winds whistling through the old bones of the house. The rain coming down like heavy hail. The thunder that you could feel deep in your bones each time it rumbled. 

Lord Djarin had protested on the matter. Said you could wait out the storm but insisted you leave after. 

“Don’t be rude, honey.” Lady Kryze had said. The sentiment, honey, came off more as an insult than as something sweet and tender. The look on the Lord’s face one of strain and frustration. A warning flashed in his eyes before he gave you a tight lipped smile and nodded in agreement. 

And now here you are. Dressed in a nightgown that Lady Kryze had supplied you with. The white fabric feeling almost like satin against your chilled skin, the lack of heat coming from the radiator on the other side of the room making you frown as your breasts made it more than clear how your body was reacting to the draft in the room—to the cold storm outside. 

The loud thump that startles you from outside of your door tears your gaze from the window and elevates your unease when you put your ear to the dark wood and hear nothing but the old house talking in the way one does in storms or settling.

Lord Djarin had ordered you to stay in your room. To lock the door from the inside and try to get some rest. Assuring you that all was alright, the drafts liked to open the doors at night. 

Listening to the plea in his voice that he tried to hide with his endearing smile was enough to convince you not to try it. To listen to his words. To do what had been asked of you without question once again. 

But the thump comes again. This time, sounding closer. Perhaps a glass broke somewhere in the hall. 

Your teeth chew at your bottom lip in worry. 

What if the Lord or Lady needed help? What if they had fallen? The lack of electricity in the house was more than a factor, a reason, for something that could cause a fall. Candlelight only shows so much in these dark halls. 

And while there had been no cry for help. No croak, groan, or indication that someone needs help; you can’t help the way your heart escalates or why you ignore the nerves, making your hand shake as you unlock the door, twist the cold handle, and open it a sliver. 

Your eyes search the vast darkness of the hall within the tiny space you’ve given yourself. The lit candles in the holders on the wall do little to aid in you seeing anything other than small glows of orange light past the railing that lines the hall. 

The words of the Lord push into the back of your mind as you open the door more and poke your head out into the dark space. The strings of lightening outside paint the empty hall in blue light. Streaking against the dark wallpaper hauntingly. 

“Lord Djarin?” Your voice is faint compared to the booming thunder outside. A gulp of air fills your lungs when you get enough bravery to step fully out of your room and speak a little louder, “Lady Kryze?” 

The silence only pushes you forward. 

Has your bare feet cold and weary against the long rug on the hardwood floor. The floorboards creak with each step that you take.

The portraits of unknown people by unknown painters look more intimidating and scary the longer you venture through the hall. The candles shadow their faces in scowls that aren’t normally there in the daylight. 

Your fingers dig into the side of your nightgown, bunching up the fabric as your heart hammers against your ribs. 

Maybe you should go back to your room. Maybe it was nothing. The rooms with open doors were dark and abandoned. The staircases are bare, and the entryway below, when you look over the rail, is completely encased in darkness.

Maybe it had come from the west wing of the house. Maybe it was a branch outside. Your mind isn’t sure. Isn’t thinking about anything other than getting back to your room, engulfing yourself in the bedspread, and trying to ignore every creepy sound that the storm outside aids in the houses off putting nature.

Being here at night was, in fact, something your nerves could not handle, it seemed. 

You sigh. Come to a stop at the last door along the hallway. Your bottom lip sore from your worrying. Whatever the thump was, it’s not something as drastic as your mind had probably come up with, and unless you feel like venturing down the stairs and through the rest of the house, it wasn’t your concern—and the prospect made you shiver knowing some parts of the house didn’t have candles lining the walls. 

But when you turn to head back to your room, your body crashes into another, and the scream you let out rings along with a crack of thunder, filtering the hallway into a horrific sound of chaos and fear. 

“You were told to stay in your room.” 

“Oh my—" your hand flies to your chest. The beat of your heart feels as if it might beat it’s way out of the cavern of your ribs. Your lungs finally fill with the air that had been whooshed out of you when you had collided with the other person once you realized who it was. “Lady Kryze.” 

“I was told you listen to directions well,” her smile is pressed and sure. Humorous in the way her eyes move along your appearance. The relief you felt from it being her soon dying when you remember how see through your nightgown is. Your arms cross over your bare chest. “How misguided.” 

“I-I was just,” you swallow. Try to get your breathing back to normal. Try to stop the pounding in your ears matching up with the rain outside—with the booms of thunder. “I heard a noise.” You manage to get out. The amused raise of her brow makes your body heat up in something akin to embarrassment or a child running to their mother at night because they are scared. 

Lady Kryze hums, “many things go bump in the night around here. It’s an old house.”

“Of course,” you nod. “Yes.” You laugh nervously, breathy, and unsure. Trying to ease the tension that’s growing between the two of you. Worried you might be jobless come morning. “I apologize. I was just worried that you or Lord Djarin may have been hurt.”

“You’re a doctor? Here I thought you were a maid.” Her smile is mocking, unkind. But that’s when you finally take her fully in. With the flashes of lightening through the window at the end of the hall, giving light to the shadows that dance along her face in the candlelight.

She looks…different. 

There's a deep red tint to her lips that’s not usually there. You can’t recall the last time you saw her wear lipstick, let alone that shade. Her hair is darker and more unruly at the bottom than usual. Than the sleek look of perfection it’s always at. Her clothes—her dress—stained a deep red and ripped at the top, standing her paler than normal skin out. 

Your eyes look down to her nails; they’re longer. Stained the same shade as her lips and her dress. 

Somethings not right.

And when your gaze meets hers again, you can see how much darker her eyes look than what you’re used to seeing below that scowl. Bigger. Almost as if her pupils had doubled in size.

Your lack of subtlety seems to give you away when you quickly try to sidestep her and head for your room. 

“Now that I know you’re both fine, I’ll just go back to my room now.” You say softly, give her a forced smile as you try to keep your composure and act as normal as you would if you weren’t scared out of your skin. 

Lady Kryze laughs under her breath. Let’s you step past her and walk one, two, or five steps before there’s a grip at the back of your elbow and your back is being slammed into the wall. The gasp of your lungs deflates from the pressure puffing out against her face with how close she is. 

“Lady Kr-”

“Bo.” She corrects, her eyes wandering down your face, pausing at your lips and the junction where your jaw meets your neck. Swallowing hard before her gaze cascades to your chest, “I always hated the pleasantries Din demanded we go by to fit in with you…humans.” 

“You humans?” You give her a quizicall look, too much going on in your nervous system to comprehend her words. To make sense of them when the fear of the emotion in her eyes reads hunger. 

And when she laughs again, her smile more genuine than any you’ve seen spread across her perfectly proportioned lips before; you see it. See them.

The pointed teeth that have replaced her normal ones. 

The way they gleam off of the orange glow of the candles. The way they make you swallow. Make your chest hurt from the bruising your heart is doing to your ribs from beating so fast. 

What is she?

“I thought you were smart? With the way Din talks about you, I imagined you would have figured it out by now. Especially with how close the two of you have been getting.” The accusation makes your heart stop. A cold fear pricking at your insides that makes your skin feel clammy. 

The raising of her brow makes the feeling worse as you shake your head. Open your mouth to protest on the matter, to not encourage the accusation that there might be something going on with Lord Djarin and you, her husband. 

“Don’t worry,” she smirks. Leans in closer so her lips are ghosting over the shell of your ear as she murmurs, “I like to share.” Your body trembles when her hand leaves your shoulder and her fingers run along the side of your breast. Her pointer skating along your erect nipple, making you gasp softly. “We both do.” 

“Lady Kryze–I,” there’s words meant to come out. Words meant to put an end to whatever this standoff, or showdown, is. You’re lost, you’re captivated, and you’re frightened. But her cheeks and lips brush against yours as she moves herself back so she can look at you; her dark eyes make every syllable on your tongue lay thick and weighted down like sludge. 

There’s a silence that has enough tension to make your body buzz and your brain catch up to put the puzzle pieces together with the information that has always been laid out for you. Things you took as old family traditions you didn’t care to understand. 

The presistant curfew, the eerie darkness that hung over the manor once the sun started to set. The mysterious cases of maids and butlers going missing without a trace. The town just beyond your own’s population dwindling down. Neighbors and friends gone. 

Lady Kryze’s dark eyes, her teeth. 

“You’re the cause of all the disappearances.” It’s not a question because you already know the answer. The slow spread of her lips only solidified the gathered information in your head to fit neatly in a box of truths. “And,” you swallow, hate how your heart aches at the very thought. “Lord Djarin..he–”

“Is much more discrete than I.” She seems to find a silent annoyance in the statement. In the way your body lets out a shaky breath as if you’re relieved. It makes her eye twitch before she’s leaning in again, her lips closer to yours now. Her breath smells of metal. “He doesn’t like to indulge in the bounty we’ve been given. Says it’s not right to eat thy neighbor.” Her tongue runs across her bottom lip, one of her sharp teeth catching on the skin. “I say, why waste such delicious gifts? And delicious they are, especially the ones who beg. The ones who let me play with my food before I eat it.” 

Her laugh makes your body shiver. A reaction she seems to like too much, as her lips skim across yours. The metallic scent of her tongue inhaled by your shaky breaths and swallowed down, leaving your throat dry and your tongue itching to reach out for the source. 

The source of it’s weight, the source of the ache in your jaw with the need to drink. A thirst for what you’re sure is water and not the nourishment that’s so clearly painted Lady Kryze’s lips red and her tongue. Your body willing to use any source of fluid to aid you. 

Not because the metallic linger of her breath sits on your tastebuds like an open invitation. Not because her fingers are still at the side of your breast, your peaked nipple aching to be brushed over by her again. 

“Will you let me play with you?” Her nose brushes yours as her head turns, and her lips just catch the corner of your mouth, a gasp leaving your lips as they move across your cheek and her teeth clip on your jawline. “I know how hard it is for my husband to be near you every day and not sink his teeth into this beautiful neck. You look as good as you’ll taste.” 

A moan racks your ribcage when her hand grips the side of your neck, bending it so the other side is on full display and her lips press to the sensitive flesh. Her tongue coming out to run the tip lightly against you, like she doesn’t dare indulge too much. Like it’s an appetizer to what she really wants. 

A trail of bruising kisses and hungry noises coming from the woman making your chest heave, your fingers daring to come up to her elbow to grip the fabric of her dress as an anchor—or to pull her closer—you're not too sure what your body wants, your senses not matching up with the fear still plaguing your brain. 

“Will you run for me, little rabbit?” You can feel the amusement at her own words with the smirk that’s pressed just below your ear. Your body canting at the derogatory pet name.

Until her next words come out of her mouth in a booming shriek that makes your ears ring and your body recoil from her in defense to protect itself from wrath. 

“Run!”

And you do. 

Not turning back to look to see if she’s chasing you. All the heat once again drained from your body, any pleasure you had been feeling doused out, and brought tears burning at the corners of your eyes. 

The candles on the wall continue to be your guiding light. Even when you step on something that makes you hiss. That tears the skin on the bottom of your foot enough to stutter your sprint. A limp catches in your leg as you try to make haste.

You were foolish for staying here. Foolish for leaving your room. Foolish for not seeing what this house really was or what it’s occupants really were.

Foolish. 

If there had been a spell, you had fallen for it. Like a silly little girl.

The closer you get to your chamber door, the harder your heart beats against your ribs. The harder you try to ignore the sting in your heel. The harder it is for you to breathe. 

The distance only seems to get further and further away from safety the longer you try for it. The longer your eyes strain in the candlelight to not step on something else that could make you completely imobile. Completely at Lady Kryze’s mercy. 

Who you don’t hear behind you. 

Who—upon your better judgment, one would say—you look for as you turn your head towards the path behind you. Your blood running cold when you see that all the candles have completely gone out and you can’t see a thing. 

The flashes of lightening from the windows down below cascading the barest amount of light onto the floor. 

It’s the least of your worries when your body collides with a wall. 

Or what feels like a wall—a strained ache coming to your chest upon the collusion, your body thrown backwards as you groan from the impact your tailbone makes against the hard floor. 

And when your eyes open, you realize it’s not a wall you’ve collided with; it’s Lord Djarin. 

“I told you to stay in your room.” His voice is full of authority and aggravation as he pulls you from the floor. It’s a tone he’s never used on you, a grip on your arm that’s much more cruel than the light touches of fleeting moments spent together. 

“She–Lady Kryze–She.”

“Is insatiable, yes.” There’s a growl that’s completely for his wife’s sake and not your own. But the sound still makes your stomach clench. Your body dragged along the hallway by the hands of the man you’re now realizing is more dangerous than any normal man. 

A monster.

Like his wife.

And yet, you feel safe in his tight grasp. Feel safe with the memories you share with him. Of him. The man you knew before the monster. 

The fear of him never coming. 

The fear only comes back once you’ve reached your room, and he’s pushing you through the door only for your back to collide with something icy that grips your wrist and snakes it’s fingers along the column of your neck to hold you against it.

“Bo.” Lord Djarin’s voice is stern. Angry. 

“Darling.” You can feel the smile that’s wrapped around the word even without seeing Lady Kryze’s face. 

The cold of her body seeping through your night dress and against your skin—a cold that’s not from the fear of what she is rather than what she’s doing. What has stained her lips and tongue and what you wanted so badly to taste just minutes ago. The same deep red clearly stained in the front fabric of your gown that you hadn’t noticed until now.

Until you’re standing in front of Lord Djarin, your night dress more see through and clinging to your body, where it’s damp from blood and straining against your breasts. 

Lady Kryze’s grip tightens on your throat, and it makes a breathless noise fall from your lips. A noise that has Lord Djarin’s eyes honing in on your mouth, moving along to his wife's hand on your throat, before plunging down to your chest. A hard swallow and a deep scowl shot at the woman holding you in her vise. 

“Let her go.”

“We were just having a little fun. Weren’t we?” Her teeth knick your earlobe, and it makes your body contort against her hold. “See,” she smirks. 

“Bo. No.” His tone has finality. Has something that wordlessly lets you know he’s tired of this topic; he’s clearly told her no on before. 

Something inside your stomach lightens up and burns at the thought of Lord Djarin denying his wife the pleasure of making you a meal time and time again. Was it out of respect? Care? Want?

Did she want to sink her teeth into you so badly because of jealousy at the closeness you and her husband had found the longer you worked here? No, she said they like to share. Said she likes to share. 

Was it want then?

The want to do more than end your life by draining you.

“Come on, Din.” The hand at your wrist does a show of crawling with her sharp nails over your midsection and to your hip to start pulling up your night dress. Your thighs quickly come into view as she bunches the fabric further and further up. A shyness takes over you as you wiggle in her grasp as you watch Lord Djarin’s eyes follow the movement with a hungry look. “We all know you want her.” 

Her lips press against your jaw as she murmurs to you, “he never allows himself to indulge in the things he wants. He’s so disciplined. Such a good man. He’d never let it slip that after you leave his library, he bends me over his desk and fucks me the way he wishes he could fuck you.”

An involentary noise that get’s choked out of your throat makes her laugh softly, “tell him he can have you. Tell him you like it.” Your eyes lock with his; his eyes just as dark and monstrous as his wife's now that you’re really looking at them. His lips that deep red—the same red you smelled and craved to taste on her lips. 

Your thighs inwardly press together, causing the pressure between them to ease the slightest, but grow worse when your backside pushes back against Lady Kryze and she lets out a noise that sounds just as lovely as she looks. 

“Look, Din.” A heat comes to your cheeks as the rest of the fabric of your gown is pulled above your hips, showcasing your nakedness to both of them. “There’s no denying she wants you,” her fingers move down to grip your inner thigh. The clear and evident proof of your arousal—that you’re not sure was caused earlier or right now—coats your skin and her fingers. 

“No, she is not-”

“What? Food?” Lady Kryze laughs, “we both know you’d never let me drain her. Nor could you bear to have anything but her essence touch your tongue. But she can be a toy. You can fuck her. We both can.” 

You can see the internal battle he’s fighting with himself—against his wife, against what’s right, against his want. 

And there’s a part of you that understands. That knows this is wrong. That has barely come to terms with what they are—monsters, myths, and scary stories you tell little children at night to get them to go to bed. 

But then the proof of your arousal, of your own want is being toyed with between your thighs as Lady Kryze runs a finger through your wetness. Your hips canting against her hand as she pulls it away just as quick as it was there and holds her finger out to her husband. 

“Taste her.”

His head is about to shake; you can sense it. See it before it happens by the way his fists bunch at his sides. Maybe that's why you finally find your voice, “please.”

And it’s as if those are the words he’s been waiting for you to say since the day you’ve met. Since you’ve started working for him. The speed at which he’s against your front and his lips are wrapped around the finger that has gathered the wetness from your pussy makes you feel woozy. 

Makes you sway on your feet and loosen in Lady Kryze’s hold. Her nails dig into your flesh as she holds you tighter, keeping you upright for her husband. 

Whose finger is under your chin, mouth daringly close to yours as he murmurs, “are you certain?”

Do you want this?

Do you want all it entails if you let this continue?

His dark eyes speak; let you know that he’ll stop this. That while you might be weak in comparison to who they truly are, you have a say, and he’ll do whatever you wish. 

A wise woman would heed the warning that’s in the brow he raises. Thats in the descent of his finger down your chin and to your jugular. Your heartbeat thudding against the pad of his finger. His tongue comes out to wet his bottom lip as his eyes cast to your neck and then up to his wife. 

Who's giving him a smile you can’t see but can feel in the way her body shifts, pulling your thighs apart easily. Lord Djarin needs no more confirmation for either of you as he falls to his knees, a rough hand cupping the back of your thigh to lift and bring it up and over his shoulder. 

Your back arching, and a gasp rakes through your body when you feel the bite of teeth against your inner thigh. Feel the sting of punctured skin, the pull of something inside that’s making your eyes flutter, and the pressure in your lower belly thumping at the same speed as your heart. 

When your eyes shift down, when he’s stopped, when you feel like you could either pass out or come from just this, you see blood—your blood—staining his lips and tongue. See his eyes go even darker, black, and void of any human attributes. Making him look entirely like a monster that’s hungry, starved. 

And you’ve completely offered yourself up for the taking. 

There’s a deep moan coming from Lord Djarin as his fingers and tongue clean his mouth. It’s obscene as much as it is beautiful to watch. Your arousal only grows worse at the sight. 

“How does she taste?” 

“Exqusite.” He murmurs against your skin, his tongue running over the marks he’s just left in your thigh, working it’s way up to the apex of your thigh. Your legs shake the closer he gets to your pussy. 

A cry burns your lungs when you feel him dive into you without any warning. His tongue licking through your wetness, his nose pressing against your clit. The tip of it creates a slow grind that only intensifies when you cant your hips up. When you thrust against the air, his tongue slips inside of you, pushing it further inside. Your fingers dig into the sides of your dress as you try not to completely collapse against either of them. 

The pleasure coursing through your body makes that easier said than done. 

Lady Kryze is humming against your cheek, her hand coming down to slow the movement of your hips. “Take your time, little rabbit.” She trails kisses and soft bites over and under your jaw to your earlobe, where she lets the tip of her tongue run against it. “Because once you’ve come, you’re mine to play with.” 

[m3rricat]

You Do Not Have To Be Good - Ch. 1

Story summary: Four months after the defeat of the Netherbrain, Astarion finds himself stuck in the mire of his past and all the anger and despair that comes with it. While wrestling with her traveling-companion-turned-lover’s misery, Cat makes an impulsive decision that sets off their first falling-out. This post-game short story is told alongside the full in-game story of the evolving relationship between Cat (the not-a-bard) and Astarion (needs no introduction) which varies from canon. Told from both POVs.

Chapter Masterlist

Pairing: Astarion x female Tav

Chapter Content Warnings: mild gore, canon-typical violence

Word Count: 4974

Read on AO3

The cobbles under Astarion’s boots are slick with rain from the day. It makes the night pungent: the stench of rotting garbage in the streets and sewage from a thousand chamber pots flowing toward the harbor is so overwhelming he is practically swimming in it. But it doesn’t matter, because the anger pulsing through his veins is a hot relief. Even as it galls him, it cuts through the haze of creeping misery, and for the first time in weeks he feels sharp. Feels as alive as one undead can.

He had smelled it on her skirts. Faded and stale, but there all the same. The mildew in Cazador’s dungeon must have been its own strain, for he had smelled it nowhere else until he had on Cat, minutes ago.

Astarion had woken that evening and found it was to be a night where his mind was fitful, see-sawing back and forth from the present to the past which inevitably overlaid every street and every alley here in his old stalking grounds. It was a poor time for his broken brain to betray him. He had a hunt tonight. More properly, a bounty hunt, or state-sanctioned feeding as he had called it in the hearing of the newly-minted Grand Duke Ravengard. Astarion had gone to him weeks back for leave to get a license. His delightful joke had earned a grimace but no outright rebuke from darling Wyll. Cat had also rolled her eyes, but her lips quirked in amusement he knew she could not help. Not with him. That had been a good day. One of the few this past month.

On his way out that night, his path had crossed with Cat’s in the airy, earth-smelling main hall of Jaheira’s house, who had graciously agreed to put them up for a while when they returned to the city. Thinking back, Cat had been distracted. Her smile hadn’t quite reached her eyes. Though maybe that was because he had been… trying to deal with lately. But either way, he had dutifully stepped into her embrace, accepted her loving admonishment to be careful, will you? Most times he thought it awfully adorable given that he was back up to his full vampiric strength and speed that the tadpole had taken from him. But this night, just as she said it, that smell reached his nose. And all hell broke loose.

The stench jolts him out of his body. Even as he watches himself round on Cat, he is back there writhing on the stone in the dark, his throat raw from screaming as Godey goes in for another nail with his pliers. He sees her trying not to cry, trying to calmly answer his demands of why in the hells did she go there, go there without telling him? That wretched place where she has no business, where she must be prying or plotting or hiding something from him. Betraying him. Picking at his wounds. Her apology is choked but painfully sincere. She should have told him, should have told him right off. She squeezes her eyes shut as she tries to explain. She barely knows herself. Him struggling with the past, and his memories that are in her own mind. She wanted to—she doesn’t know. Put them down there, nail them to where they were made. Wanted to loosen their grip on her mind—and, and—

Nevermind her insane prattling. Her strangeness that he cannot stand, gods damn it. It is the most untrue thing he says to her. He sweeps out the door with his burning anger before Cat’s tears can smother it.

Their little charmed interlude after the destruction of the Netherbrain is faded now, like a dream upon waking.

Those first three months he and Cat had caroused along the Sword Coast: by night, searching for leads to let him walk in the sun, and by day, holing up in whatever cozy crypt or cave or cellar and searching each other’s bodies for other sorts of leads. They were wildly, disgustingly in love and it so completely consumed him he thought the feeling would never end. But then, of course, the day he felt most deep in contentment was the day he realized what he had tried to run from had already slithered back into its old well-worn burrows. Had molded over his bright new happiness.

Because how could Astarion be happy? Him, the corpse that had been little more than a puppet for 200 years, had been beaten and flayed and burned and penetrated every which way by a thousand strangers, taken from himself so thoroughly. How could so degraded a vessel contain happiness? Around that three-month mark, while still out on the road, these thoughts start to skirt through his mind like shadows, there and gone in a blink. But then the shadows start to gather. Start to linger. Some days they shade everything he sees. Everything Cat says.

He begins to see her with double vision. Part of him still sees naked, unabashed love in her eyes. But the sharp and cold part of his mind that has kept him in one piece these past centuries begins to know the truth. It begins to whisper. Now and then, it will suddenly reveal the disgust in her glances, the disgust any reasonable person would have for one like him. He sees the weight he is on her, the dead body drowning in itself that she must carry, must cajole and comfort and leave alone when he snaps at her for solitude, when she has done nothing in particular to deserve it. Because he is hateful, pathetic. A burden, a tangled mass of them, who can’t do such a simple thing as be here and now.

They had always planned to return to the Gate after some months to rest, to raise up funds again for the search. But when Cat mentions turning around, all Astarion hears is her defeat in the face of him. He cannot blame her. He does his best to swallow his venom, but he is tight-lipped and sullen, trailing after her unfailingly patient back all the way to the city. He manages, from time to time, to break the surface of his self-loathing, reaches out with all the affection he can muster, mutters apologies, and she holds him, and for a moment he believes again. But then she must let go, and he sinks back down, trying to keep the memory of her love in his dead lungs.

She does not say a cutting word against him through all his moods. Cat has always been a master at keeping her own counsel. It was one of the first things he learned about her in those early days of their acquaintance, and he did not much care for it then.

~

It is six months ago, and Astarion is standing over her while their merry worm-brained band make camp on a cliff overlooking the fleshy wreck of the Nautiloid. She is the oddest one out, he thinks: an armored cleric, a subpar wizard, a delightfully terrifying alien warrior—and then there is Cat. A human-elf mutt of some mixture, pretty in a plain way, with her crooked nose and brown freckled face. So common that it’s oddly familiar.  She looks like a serving wench that has been flung down from the sky and rolled in some dirt because that is exactly what she is. It is one of the few things anyone is able to pry out of her early on. The most she has said to him was at their introduction the day before, where she had promised to shove the knife he pointed at her down his throat. He somehow still wound up included in her little group, but had gotten little more than unreadable looks from her since.

“Rather dour for a bar maid, aren’t you?” he ventures as she arranges the firewood. She replies with the new longest string of words she has ever said to him, blandly suggesting that he slosh some beer on her and grab her ass and maybe that would get her in the right mindset. And then she turns back to tending the firewood.

Despite Cat’s few words, she seizes the reins of their little troop early on. Astarion pinpoints her ascension to the night when the glum cleric brought back a rabbit she had caught for dinner, but neither she nor the wizard knew how to prepare it. The Gith was useless as she would have just eaten it raw. They stared down pathetically at the tiny carcass until Cat sighed, picked it up, and took it away to drain and dress.

Cat being vaulted to the leadership position is also due to the quiet firmness about her that Astarion cannot square. She can squeeze out only some basic spells. She is barely competent with a crossbow. Shouldn’t she be utterly out of her element, with a worm gnawing on her brain and other monstrosities trying to kill them daily? It makes Astarion suspicious. There is only room for one con artist in this group, and he has already claimed that spot.

In those first few days, countless times he decides to abandon these ingrates and strike out on his own. But doubt stops him, even after they get leads for possible solutions. That Gith crèche is one. But he would need their resident Gith for that. Perhaps she could be persuaded to go off with him… but he doubted it. She had deferred to Cat like a kicked dog when Cat intervened in her interrogation of that blubbering tiefling. The only other apparent option was the head druid, but hundreds of goblins swarmed between him and Astarion.

And then there was his particular predicament—this thing writhing in his skull had granted him a species of freedom. How could Astarion possibly thread the needle and keep it, control the worm and not destroy it like everyone else intended should happen? So he goes in maddening circles, each time finding himself back in camp.

If he is a tad honest with himself, Astarion’s crippling indecision is also due to the fact that he is afraid. Incredibly, mind-numbingly afraid, and he has no idea what he should do. He has been forcibly taken from his master, but that will not save him when he is found again. His dream of Cazador that first night only reinforces the rationality of his all-encompassing terror, and his ire toward his lickspittle companions who seem content to casually stroll toward the general direction of a solution, taking in the sights along the way.

Astarion’s anger peaks in the dank chambers of the Emerald Grove when Cat betrays how weak she is. She tells the dwarf healer everything, blabbering on about the worms and the ship and the mind-merging—everything, to a perfect stranger. And Cat gets exactly what she deserves: no cure, and a threat of bodily harm if she does not promise to kill herself at the first sign of a cold sweat. Instead of chucking the bottle of wyvern poison back in the dwarf’s face as she should have done, she accepts he theoretical suicide graciously and pockets it. Astarion tries to wrestle the scowl off his face until they are out of the warrens full of wary druids.

He must do something. Leave, or stage a coup, or somehow convince the half-elf wench to grow a spine since she has everyone’s ear already.

As they set up camp on a ridge overlooking the Sacred Grove, Astarion makes up his mind to try the least drastic option first. He goes in search of Cat, but finds her occupied with yet another distraction. A crying tiefling—what is with all these crying tieflings?—is sat on a rock just down the ridge clutching a lute, and Cat is crouched beside her, talking low, her hands far more expressive than Astarion has ever seen them.

The tiefling sniffles and plays a phrase; Cat stops her, talks and gestures, and then the tiefling tries again. Over and over this repeats. Several minutes later the girl manages to eke out something passable, her voice cracking as she tries to sing along. Cat stands and after a brief word turns to leave, but the girl grabs her arm, and Astarion can hear her thanking Cat profusely, telling her she has a gift in return. She totters over to her packs, pulls out a long-ish wooden case, and hands it to Cat.

Astarion can see the stiffness in Cat’s arms as she holds the box. She’s staring down at the thing like it might bite. The tiefling is expounding again. Cat mutters something without look up and marches off up the path toward the camp, tucking the case under her arm.

From his vantage point in the shadow of a tent, Astarion watches Cat veer away from the camp at the last second, stop at a stump just off the path, and put the case down on it. She stares at it as the sun goes down, hands on her hips. It feels like an age before she sighs, unlatches it, and with a smooth movement removes a glossy violin and bow and brings it to her shoulder.

Shit.

She deftly begins to tune it, face furrowed in concentration. Her arms seem suddenly graceful, holding it all in a frame that is both solid and easy. Practiced. Because she is practiced, as Astarion knows. Because now he realizes he has seen her before.

Two times it was. Seven—no, eight years ago now. The first time, she was practically swaggering into Cazador’s upper city offices after hours in her gown straight from a private performance at patriar so-and-so’s. Her eyes slid over Astarion who was posted outside the door, her mind clearly preoccupied. Cazador had pulled him from the hunt that night, needing someone to play the manservant at this meeting.

Cat—she did not just go by 'Cat' back then, surely?—was Cazador’s fixation of the month. Cazador always considered himself a poet, and relatedly, a patron of the fine arts. He usually had some musician or painter or other under his thumb to fulfill his demented artistic whims, and when they tried to wiggle out from under, he sucked them dry more literally.

Cat had caught Cazador’s eye for the same reasons why she had become the general darling of the upper city arts circles. She was a violin prodigy with both incredible technical expertise and astonishingly inventive composition. But more than that, she could play the Weave as easily as her instrument. Most sinisterly, she could also twist the emotions of her audience with terrifying precision. A typical bard might sow a general fear with their songs, but Cat could coax out your specific worst childhood memory, or the delicious pangs of your first love. It was like catnip to the rich and powerful, this beauty with the potential for pain.

Cazador decided he must have her. First he mused about turning her, claiming her talents forever, but he quickly discarded the notion since Cat would be unlikely to retain her skills. The dead, even animated, have duller senses of touch than the warm-blooded and are far less dexterous without effort: it took Astarion a good decade to become even middling with a sewing needle. No, patronage it would be.

Except, apparently, it would not. Astarion was barely able to make out the words through the solid oak door, but the progression of tone made it clear that things are going south between his master and this woman. She was saying no, rather bluntly. This would be a first. A tendril of pleasure curled in his stomach. Oh, she was doomed. But she had rankled Cazador, and that was what Astarion lived for.

The second time came several days later. Cazador had pulled him for servant duty again, this time to escort him at a concert. The concert of the season, in fact, which featured Cat as a soloist. Cazador had not said a word about any plans. But Astarion knew he had one. Knew that this would be the woman’s last happy evening, one way or another.

He was sat behind his master. As ever, his eyes were drawn to Cazador, the fire of his hatred always burning in his belly, even when it is was banked low. He tried to make his eyes wander the audience, the orchestra, the lavish hall, to steal something beautiful to tuck away in his mind, but inevitably they snapped back to the arbiter of his world.

At the end of the evening, Cat strode onto the stage with that same swagger as when he first saw her, beaming at the audience’s roar of approval. Astarion did not feel bad for her, per se. She was just another unlucky wretch in his master’s way. He watched events unfold with detached interest, like watching a carriage crash.

She looked radiant as the orchestra striked up the triumphant third movement of the concerto. She came in on her cue, gets several notes in, and faltered. With a game face, she tried to dive back in, but her bow squawked against the strings instead. Astarion could not hear Cazador, but he could very nearly feel the vibrations as his master invoked whatever curse or hex settled over her, strangling her well-trodden neural pathways. Cat’s face was pinched with fear now. She stared out at the audience wildly, unseeing—and then Astarion saw the moment her eyes locked on Cazador. She knew it was him. But she was caught, and she could not stop it. The din of the orchestra garbled and then crumbled as Cat ran off stage.

Astarion expected his master to order him to track down the woman in a few months’ time to drag her back to the palace for her final comeuppance when she was well out of the spotlight, but the order never came. Cazador seemed to have forgotten her, as had the rest of the Gate’s high society.

But here she has come crawling out again, probably from inside of a bottle drowning her sorrows since. Astarion had known Cat was hiding something. Perhaps she speaks little because does not want to exhume her past. Maybe she does not want her fall from grace revealed.

Astarion then wonders if she has recognized him—if she thinks he had anything to do with what happened that night. Astarion grits his teeth as he continues to watch her tune the fiddle. This made things more complicated—except, no, he decides forcibly. It is straightforward. Cat is a broken person, and he has proof now. He had intended to approach with flattery, but now he knows he must probe the wound, find out how deep it is. If he cannot convince her to be more ruthless, then she must go, or he.

Just as he is about to corner Cat, Shadowheart calls the group to supper. Cat stops her tuning abruptly and shoves the instrument back in its case. She carries it over to the tents and dumps it unceremoniously inside her own before joining.

Astarion almost misses Cat the next morning. He is perched on a rock outcropping to watch the sun come up, the one thing he has found that makes him happy in this mess, when Cat darts out of her tent. He did not expect her to rise this early as she had never done so before. It is not until she has already set off on a path to the far side of the ridge with her violin case under her arm that he spots her and begins following her at a distance through the scrubby underbrush.

The Chionthar flows on the other side, looking molten in the early morning light. Cat sets down her case on a flat rock wedged into the sandy bank. Just as she snaps it open, Astarion steps out of the shadows.

“We’ve met before. Haven’t we?”

Cat spins around, startled. The bow is clutched in her right hand. She looks slightly wild. Her mousy hair, normally braided and bound up, is drooping in a messy bun and she doesn’t have a jacket on over her stays. Her stare is severe for a second, but to Astarion’s surprise, it eases slightly. She regards him carefully.

“’Seen,’ maybe. I know I never said a word to you,” she says in her slight drawl that Astarion hasn’t yet been able to place.

“So you do remember. But you never said a thing.” Astarion strolls toward her. "I didn’t even recognize you until you picked up that fiddle yesterday. How the mighty have fallen.”

Cat casually leans back on the rock, folding her arms. Her tone is cool as she says, “You want to take a dig at me? Go on. I didn’t think you cared much for what your patriar boss did, though.”

“Oh?” Astarion frowns. “And what would you know about that?”

Cat smiles slightly. “I saw how you looked at him. You were staring at the back of his head the whole night like you wished it would explode.” She picks at the top of the bow with her finger. “I wanted to shake your damn hand then. Everyone told me he was eccentric but—eugh,” she shudders. “I felt like—like a pretty bug he wanted to put a pin in when he was talking at me in his office. And I know it was him that scrambled my brain.” She looks back up at him, serious. “What did he do to me?”

Astarion is honest. “I haven’t the faintest.”

Cat sighs. Shrugs. “Figured. You still working for him?”

“Uh—” Astarion stutters. He is thoroughly thrown off his plan now. She seems far from broken, or even ruffled. “No. I—that is, no. Ancient history.”

“Good for you,” says Cat feelingly. “He must be hell to work for.”

Visions of Cazador’s eyes glowing with command burn through Astarion’s brain. “Yes,” he says, distantly. “He left…much to be desired.”

The silence stretches as Astarion fights through the sudden wave of intrusive thoughts. Cat peers at him, her face tinged with concern. “What did he do to you?”

“My past is not your business,” Astarion snaps as echoes of what Cazador did to him rattle through his body. The anger wakes him back up to his purpose. “But what is of everyone’s concern—you leading us to our deaths.”

Cat blinks, straightening up. “What in the hells are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about all the entanglements you’ve led us into in this blasted grove—but mainly I’m talking about that suicide pact you made. What were you thinking?”

Cat frowns. “Suicide? Oh, you mean taking that poison from Nettie? Well…” Her eyes scan his face. Measuring. “…I lied. Not like she’s going to follow me around to make sure I do.”

Astarion sags slightly at the sudden lack of resistance. It’s not like the thought hadn’t occurred to him. But he had no reason to think she hadn’t been earnest with all her other do-gooder deeds so far. “Then why haven’t you said a thing to anyone? You rather like not saying anything about anything, don’t you?”

“And if I did come right out and say that I’m not killing myself at the first sign, what do you think the others would do? Lae’zel would just chop me down right there,” Cat retorts. “They don’t need to know. Won’t hurt them.”

Astarion has to concede she had a point. But these revelations still put him on edge. When would he be the one she strategically declined to tell her true intentions? His view of her had gotten both better and worse.

For now, he should just try to make her feel aligned with him, he decides. “Glad I’m not the only sane one here.” He plasters on a smile. “Ceremorphosis has already been delayed unnaturally long. I say we can stand to dance on the edge a bit.”

“A bit. Sure. Figure until our teeth start getting loose.”

Astarion suddenly shrinks his smile, to make sure his own teeth aren’t too apparent. “Very well. If your teeth start rattling around in your skull, I’ll be happy to provide the coup de grâce. Any preferences?”

“Preferences?” she smiles, perplexed. “For how you’ll kill me?”

Astarion opens his arms generously. “Of course. It’s the least I can do for our fearless leader.”

Cat rolls her eyes. “Leader, my foot.” But to his surprise, she ponders the question. “You’re good with a knife. Bet you could get it between my ribs easy, straight to the heart.”

He bows. “As you wish, darling. A good stabbing it is.”

“So kind. But really, whatever you can manage,” Cat replies in mock-graciousness. Then absently she rubs her neck. “Just not strangulation. Please.” Before Astarion can probe into that little aside, Cat continues— “And how about you?”

“What?”

“How do you want me to kill you?” Her face is disarmingly earnest.

“Oh, my dear,” he laughs. “I’d like to see y—”

And that’s when he hears it. Suddenly the most beautiful, heartrending music Astarion has ever heard floats in on the breeze from the river. It is singing, but wordless. It didn’t need words. He could live on it, sustained by it forever—

“Cover your ears!” Cat yells suddenly, rudely cutting through the heavenly sound. But the jolt makes Astarion realize something is wrong. He has unconsciously taken a few steps toward the river bank. Trembling, he raises his hands to his ears.

Beside him, Cat is gritting her teeth and putting the violin to her shoulder. She looks out on the river. Astarion follows her gaze, still feeling hazy. A woman crouches on a sandbar several yards out into the current. At least—he thinks it is a woman. But as it shifts, he sees the wings, the stunted body crouching on claws. A harpy. She is singing full-throated.

Beside him, Cat stares at her strings grimly and slowly begins to pick out the harpy’s melody. His attention is caught by a drop of blood at the corner of her mouth—her tongue. She bit it to keep her head, he thinks absently, against the flow of the harpy’s luring call in his brain.

Louder and louder Cat plays, with each pass drowning out the harpy’s voice more and more, until Astarion feels the hold of its song dissipate completely.

But Cat isn’t done. Without warning, a guttural groan suddenly sounds from the fiddle, eliciting a screech from the harpy. Cat is staring at the thing murderously. Again she saws at the strings, this time bringing out a high whine that trembles, and then falls to a scraping moan again. And the harpy lurches. It moves toward them not on its feet, but tumbling forward, as if the horrid sounds coming from Cat’s instrument have lodged like a hook in its throat.

The thing claws for purchase at the sand, at the stones under the water, but it is no use. Cat begins to play in some sort of disjointed rhythm, a bloodcurdling march that reels in the beast until, at last, it lies twitching in a heap at their feet. In no hurry, Cat sets down the violin, unsheathes a dagger from the belt on her dress, yanks the harpy’s head back, and slits its neck from ear to ear, sending spurts of blood into the wet sand as it gurgles its life away.

Coolly, Cat hauls it up by its hair, looking into its twitching face. Then she suddenly grimaces, turning her head to spit a gob of delicious-smelling blood into the pool forming under the harpy. Astarion feels delirious—the blood (oh, the blood), the lingering sounds of the harpy’s song in his brain. But more than that, the curdling screams Cat pulled out of the violin cradled against her throat.

Cat lets the harpy’s corpse drop in a heap and stands up, stretching her back. “I can still do it,” she mutters. “I just can’t do it pretty anymore.”

“You—you undid Szarr’s curse?”

Cat shakes her head. “No. It’s still there, whatever he did. Took me a long time to play at all again. But I’ll never be able to play the Weave like I did. I didn’t want to anyone to see, but—” Cat sighs. “I have to try to be at least halfway useful, seeing as how this found me all the way out here.” She hefts the violin in her hand. “Before, playing the weave was like a math problem. Plain and elegant. But now… it’s like I’m digging around in the dirt for it.”

Astarion has no clue what she means. “Yes, but—you can still do it.” he huffs a laugh. “Kill me any way but that, darling.”

“Oh, no worries there,” Cat says, moving back toward the case perched on the rock. “I grew up with harpies lurking around. I know them inside and out. Most things I’ll never be able manipulate physically like that. And I certainly don’t know enough about you yet to snag you.”

Her gaze then snags on his for a moment before she turns back around. Astarion watches her unassuming figure warily. A thirty-something woman in a tattered dress and tattered stays and grubby stockings she needs to burn at this point. She gently lays the violin in the case. Then she goes to rinse off the bloody knife. Sheaths it. Her tawny eyes, usually brown but gleaming elven-gold in this light, catch on his again.

“Come on. Her sisters will smell this soon enough, and I don’t fancy taking all of them.”

[strangerthingslover69]

Undercover ~ Part 1 ~

18+ minors do not read!

Warnings ~ Swearing, flirtating, drinking, strip club ~

Sebastian Berger + Female reader

You’re the best British undercover agent they have. You happen to also be a dab hand in computers. One day at work you get an unexpected visitor from Major Daniel from the ICC saying they need your help. Of course you accept, you do love an undercover mission. Once you arrive at headquarters you meet the team, Sebastian catches your eye. You were looking forward to this job even more now

You were working a double shift at the station, finishing the paperwork from your last case. A month ago you had just brought down one of the biggest drug dealers there was in England. There was a hell of a lot of paper work. You knew you could do it, you were good - no amazing - at your job. Always undercover leading different lives. You loved it. You lived for it. As you type up your report there’s a knock at your door. You look up and see Amy, the secretary with a man you’ve not seen before but sure do recognise. ‘Come in’ you say standing up. ‘Y/N, this is’ Amy begins but you cut her off. ‘Detective Major Louis Daniels. An officer in the Direction Centrale de la Police Judiciaire. The man who started the ICC. It’s a honour sir’ you say reaching to shake his hand. ‘You know who I am?’ He says shaking your hand back with a smile. ‘Of course sir. With your arrest record it’s hard not to know who you are. I think it’s amazing that you have formed the ICC. I follow your cases, rather impressive. You also got an impressive team’ you say welcoming him into your office. ‘Thank you Amy’ you say as you close the door. ‘Well I must say Miss L/N, I think you are the impressive one. That is why I’m here, we need your help. With your last undercover job going so well I knew we needed your expertise for this case.’ He says as you offer him a seat. You sit down back at your dest even more curious. ‘What’s the case?’ You asks. ‘Similar to the one you’ve just done actually. You see there is a rival gang travelling across Europe, The Scorpions. They sell the best kind of cocaine out there along with a lot more stronger stuff. With the success of your last case I was hoping you would join us?’ He finished talking and you process what he’s told you. You’d heard about this gang but we’re not sure if they existed. You couldn’t say no to this opportunity. ‘I’d be honoured sir’ you say reaching to shake his hand. ‘Excellent, I can get a taxi back to your house and you will need to pack and say goodbyes to anyone you feel necessary this is going to be a long case. I will meet you on the helipad in one hour.’ he says shaking your hand back.

You packed pretty much most of what you own, clothes, shoes, books, phone charge, the necessities. Since you’ve got no family left alive so only quick goodbye to your work colleagues. You can’t help but feel the excitement run through you. You always get a thrill from your undercover cases but this? This was going to be something else you could just feel it. As you press the lift taking you up to the helipad a little feeling of nervousness comes. You’ve done plenty of undercover jobs before, but non this extreme. Packing your life up and being gone for god knows how long. Shit, should you have done this? Should you have thought about this properly? No Y/N, this is what you were born to do. He came here all this way for you. You take a few deep breathes as the lift doors open. Major Louis stood there with the helicopter behind. ‘Let me take that’ he says grabbing your case from you. ‘Thank you sir’ you reply as you walk over to the helicopter. ‘Impressive, you’ve got your own chopper? I could most definitely get use to this’ you say with a big grin. ‘Definitely one of our many perks.’ He says as you get into the helicopter. He places your bag next to you, you both put in your headphones and seatbelts as it takes off. You’ve never been on a helicopter before, it’s bumpier than you expected. ‘So how are you feeling Y/N?’ Louis asks. ‘Good yeah, excited to get stuck in!’ You shout. He winces, ‘you don’t need to shout, I can hear you just fine’ he smiles. ‘Oh, sorry, never been on a helicopter before. So your team, just like you they are all impressive.’ You say diverting the conversation. ‘You’ve been making yourself aware of my team? You really are going to fit in nicely. I think they will most definitely like you. They are all amazing at what they do and I am truly grateful to have them. When I told them I was recruiting you they all couldn’t be happier. You have as I’ve said a very impressive background.’ He says, he’s definitely making your ego slightly bigger. ‘Of course sir, they all are incredible. Just like yourself. I hope I’m not going to be stepping in anyone’s toes.’ You say looking out the window at the beautiful views. ‘Of course not. Once we land I will introduce you to everyone properly and then we shall begin to take the scorpions down’ he says. You nod and smile looking out the window once more. You can’t quite believe how your day has become this.

Once off and out the helicopter you make your way to the ICC. Your heart was beating so loudly you were sure Major Daniel would be able to hear it. As you make your way through the doors you are slightly taken back by the building. It’s huge. A lot bigger than the station your use to. You must look like a child in a sweet shop with how you are looking around right now. ‘What do you think?’ Major Louis’s voice brings you back to reality. ‘Very impressive sir.’ You say with a bright smile. ‘Well if you think that impressive wait till you meet the others’ another man’s voice appears from behind you, an American accent. You definitely know who this is. ‘Carl Hickman Detective First Grade from NYPD. It’s a pleasure to meet you’ you say turning around. ‘Another one with the Google Louis? Good job I can do that too now. Y/N L/N. A former Chief Superintendent from London but decided to become an undercover specialist. Done over 20 undercover operations. Youngest person to ever do that many operations and youngest person to be a Chief Superintendent. You could of gone higher but you loved being out in the field. Most recently busting one of the biggest drug gangs in the UK.’ He says confidentiality to you. ‘That sound about right to you?’ He says with a warm smile. ‘Certainly does , however you missed out that fact I’m also a tech whizz’ you say with a smile. ‘Tech whizz? Sebastian’s going to have his work cut out with you’ he laughs as does Major Louis. The lifts opens and you all step in. ‘You sure your ready for this kid?’ Carl asks. ‘Always sir’ you reply confidently. ‘Please call me Carl, anything you need Y/N let me know’ he says. ‘Thank you Carl’ you reply nodding your head. The lift doors open and you all walk out. You walk behind as Carl and Major Louis talk. You take in your next surroundings. You follow the men as they make their way down some stairs, your suitcase thudding behind. Both men offered but you insisted you could manage. You hear footsteps behind you and someone taking your bag from you. ‘Miss L/N, it’s so nice to have you here’ Micheal Dorn says to you with a smile. ‘Michel Dorn, it’s an honour sir. I can honestly manage my bag’ you say gesturing to it. ‘I know you can Y/N but I insist. Did you have a pleasant flight over?’ He asks as you continue down the never ending steps. ‘Yes thank you sir, Major Louis has given me a great welcome as did Carl.’ You say gesturing to the men. ‘Good, the rest of the team will be eager to meet you also. With your background and arrest record. Very impressive I must say.’ He praises you. You could most definitely get use to this. He passes you your bag back as you’ve reached the bottom of the stairs. ‘I’ll let you get settled in and meet the rest of the team’ he says walking off. ‘Thank you sir’ you reply. You look around and see some desks across the floor with computers.

As you look around there is a glass window with technical gear you’re slightly familiar with. You also see a man with this back to you, shirt tucked into trousers, short hair. You’re pretty sure that’s Sebastian. You can’t lie when you googled this unit and this team he caught your eye. Handsome man. Blue eyes. He was your type. Your heart beated faster as you were now in the same building as him. You were impressed with the other members of the team of course but him, he was something else. As you observe him work you start to walk forward slowly following behind Louis and Carl, you’re wrapped in staring at him that you didn’t see someone walking towards you and you bump into them. ‘Shit!’ You say loudly causing heads to turn to you. You look up and see you’ve bumped into Detective Tommy McConnell, an officer in the Northern Ireland Police Service and a weapons specialist and technician. ‘I am so sorry Tommy, I really need to look where I’m going’ you say awkwardly. ‘Yeah you do’ he snaps at you before speaking again. ‘How do you know my name?’ He asks eyeing you up and down. ‘I’m Y/N L/N nice to meet you’ you say offering a handshake, he scoffs at you. ‘It was an accident Tommy, calm down’ a woman’s voice appears at his side. Sergeant Eva Vittoria is a former officer of the Nucleo Operativo Centrale di Sicurezza and current officer in Europol. ‘Yeah well at least you managed to cover yourself in my coffee and not me’ he says pointing to your top. You look down and see your once white blouse covered in coffee and starting to stick to you bra. Your feel your cheeks turning a rather embarrassing shade of crimson as you cover your chest. The others make there way over to see the commotion. ‘S-sorry Tommy’ you find your voice again brushing a hair behind your ear. He rolls his eyes, ‘yeah whatever’ he says and walks off to presumable make another coffee. Well done Y/N great start to piss off one of your colleagues. ‘Ignore him, he just takes some getting use to’ Eva says reassuringly. ‘Y/N L/N right? Lovely to meet you’ she says extending her hand. You take it and shake hers back. ‘Yeah, Eva Vittoria? Nice to meet you too’ you say with a smile shaking her hand. You didn’t even realise that Louis, Carl and Sebastian were now next to you. ‘I erm forgot to mention I can be clumsy - but never in the job I swear’ you say panicking. ‘Don’t worry, like Eva said accidents happen.’ Louis reassures you. You nod and smile looking to the floor. You still feel like eyes are on you, you look up and see they are. Well more specifically one pair of blue eyes. He looks down at your wet blouse then up at you he clears his throat, ‘nice to meet you I’m’ ‘Sebastian Berger, an officer of Berliner Polizei and the tech god’ you say interrupting him. You shake his hand and he gives you a warm smile. ‘Been doing your homework?’ He says with a smile. ’Well before Major Daniels contacted me I read about you. I mean the ICC it’s amazing reading about you all and what you’ve achieved. It’s an honour to be apart of this team’ you reply back. ‘Y/N, why don’t I show you to the bathroom so you can get cleaned up?’ Eva offers kindly. You look at Sebastian and realise your still holding his hand. You quickly drop it, ‘sorry’ you mumble following Eva to the bathroom. The men watch you and Eva walk away. Sebastian can’t help but smile. When he made his way over to you he couldn’t help but notice how sweet you looked. It’s been awhile since someone caught his eyes. ‘Making goo goo eyes already Sebastian?’ Tommy says sarcastically as he comes over with another coffee. Sebastian turns to him but before he speaks Louis beats him to it. ‘Tommy I hope you are not going to cause a problem for Y/N, we need her here.’ ‘Of course not sir, I’m sure she’s great at what she does when she’s not busy checking out ‘Mr tech god’ here’ air quoting your words you said earlier. Sebastian rolls his eyes, ‘just be nice’ Carl says. ‘I always am Hickman’ Tommy says taking a drink.

You and Eva reach the bathroom, you go into the stall and change tops. ‘Don’t worry about Tommy Y/N. He’s a nice guy, just takes some getting use to’ she says through the door. You find another blouse and swap into it. ‘I’m sure he is, I’ve just messed stuff up already. He’s not going to take me seriously now’ you huff opening the door. ‘He will don’t worry, if not I can always shot him’ she jokes to you. You can’t help but let out a little laugh. Eva looks at your and points to your blouse, ‘that’s pretty but you may want to sort out the buttons.’ She says with a small smile. You look down and realise you’ve missed a button on your chest. You turn and quickly sort it. ‘Thanks’ you say cheeks feeling red again. ‘Just relax a little, the Y/N I’ve read about doesn’t sound like she’s one to get flustered so easily?’ Eva questions as you exit the bathroom. ‘You read about me?’ You asked feeling surprised. ‘Of course, like you said you read about us before Major Daniels came and I’ve been following your career for the last three months. Well done on your recent bust, excellent work. I can not wait to see it here’ she says with a smile. ‘Neither can I, do you mind if I just have a minute quickly before going back in?’ You ask stopping outside where everyone is gathered in Sebastian’s workspace. ‘Of course’ she says rubbing your arm and making her way in. ‘Don’t tell me she’s quit already?’ Tommy says as Eva walks in. ‘Tommy, cut it out. You know we need her.’ Eva says unimpressed. Tommy sighs rolling his eyes, ‘I know. Sorry, I’ll stop’ he says putting his hand up in a surrendering position. ‘Good because I do not know if we can do this without her. She’s only just come back from her other undercover operation so she’s already being overworked. She didn’t have to say yes to coming here, she just did. Left everything behind just like you all did. Remember how nervous you felt? She feels like that now so give her a break’ Louis tells the others. The others look towards Tommy, he nods and agrees. ‘I’ll go see if she’s okay’ Eva says. ‘No, let me. I don’t want her to have a problem or feel uncomfortable with me’ Tommy says leaving the room. You stand around the corner near the stairs pacing back and forth composing yourself. ‘Y/N you can do this. This is what you were born to do. Your mum did it so can you.’ You give yourself a small prep talk hoping it’ll help. Normally you wouldn’t be so nervous but after your encounter with Tommy you can’t help it. You wonder if you’ve done the right thing. You agreed quickly. Too quickly? You haven’t had a normal life since joining the police force. You can’t remember when you just stopped to be Y/N L/N. You were always undercover. You loved it yes. You adored it. But we’re you losing yourself? You bite your skin around your nail, a nervous habit you’ve had since your father died. You start to think back to that day. That phone all that changed your life. ‘Y/N?’ You feel a hand on your shoulder pulling you out of your thoughts. You turn to see Tommy. ‘I’m sorry I was rude. We need you here. I know how you feel, can we start over?’ He offers. You relax and smile. ‘I’d love that. I’m Y/N’ you offer a handshake. He smiles, ‘good to meet you Y/N. Tommy.’ You both smile. ‘C’mon then, let’s get this thing started’ he says leading the way back.

You both enter the room, before your attention turns to Louis. ‘Glad that’s all sorted. Now Y/N I know you’ve only been out of cover for a month but you sure you’re ready to go undercover again?’ He asks turning to you, all eyes fall on you. ‘I can do it’ you say confidently with a smile. Sebastian has already made your fake documents needed for you’ he gestures to Sebastian who gathers them from his desk. He passed them all to you, you smile at him and he returns it. Such a kind smile. You look down at your new identity. (Reader - The name is your nickname from school and your mothers maiden name)

‘Impressive, not many people know to call me that. Mothers maiden name too? You definitely gonna have to tell me how you got that’ you say in a flirtatious tone. ‘They don’t call me tech god for nothing’ he says winking at you. You feel yourself blush. You clear you throat, ‘okay new identity. We got a backstory covered?’ You ask. ‘We do indeed. You were apart of another group who are known as The Indigos, non existent but believable. You were a small time dealer to begin with but once you met The Indigo group that’s where you shone. The boss took a special liking to you so you became their right hand woman. Until he set you up and got you sent down. You are now a woman after revenge and you want his blood. Of course you can fill in a details with your background but we figured it was a solid start. You will meet with the man in charge. Victor Edgar. A truly evil man. Not only wanted for supplying, selling and distributing drugs but’ Sebastian stops and takes a breath before continuing. ‘He’s also wanted for assault, rape and murder. Nothing has caught up with him yet.’ You’ve dealt with drug dealers before but not to this extent. Rape? Murder? You were in deeper than you ever thought. You nod slowly at what he’s said. ‘We understand if you want to back out Y/N, this man is not a pleasant one at all’ Eva says reassuring you. You shake your head, ‘no, no I can do it. Just a lot to take in that’s all. Please carry on Sebastian.’ You say to him. ‘We have a known location from where he parties, that will be your first interaction. It’s, it’s erm’ he stops scratching the back of his neck. ‘Where is it?’ You ask. ‘A strip club. This is who you will become. That is the start of your story’ he says. You nod slowly. Okay so now you’ve got to be semi naked. This definitely wasn’t the same operations you were use to. The others wait for you to respond, you feel all eyes on you.

‘Okay. I’m in’ you say with some what confidence. ‘To start this operation Sebastian has take a great length to make sure your location is known to us at all times so we know you are safe.’ Louis starts. ‘Only if you are comfortable with having a tracker put in you?’ He asks. You double take. ‘I’m sorry, a- a tracker? Like a dog has?’ You ask feeling confused. Tommy chuckles, your turn your head and glare at him, ‘well when you put it like that.’ He mumbles. ‘It’s a small device that will go in the just here’ Sebastian touched the back of your neck under your ear. ‘Just a pin prick, only hurts for a second. But with that we will know where you are at all times. Much safer than a wire. And it doesn’t pick up in body scans or detectors. It’s 100% safe.’ He says reassuringly. ‘I’ve also made something else similar. However this one picks up much more, instead of wearing an ear piece you can have it on the other side like the tracker. It picks up sounds. So when you are with Victor or anyone else we can hear what everyone is saying.’ He moves to his desks rooting through the papers until he finds them. He shows you them in the palm of his hand. They are tiny. ‘See? Only leave a small scar’ he says. ‘Well aren’t you clever Mr Berger. However, two things?’ You say looking back up to his eyes. ‘Yes?’ He asks. ‘One. How will I hear what you are all saying? Two. Is there anyway to have any privacy with that thing behind my ear? I mean of course you’ll need to listen in but when I have to pee? I don’t think we’re that close yet’ you say playfully. He gives a light chuckle. ‘For privacy you tap it twice and it will stop, just tap it twice again for it to come back on. Unfortunately I am not that advanced for you to hear us.’ Sebastian sighs. ‘Y/N there will always be someone else. Tonight is when we start. Eva will be working the bar, Tommy and Sebastian will look like they are paying customers. Myself and Carl will be in the car listening to your first encounter’ Louis explains. Your heart races. Unsure if it’s the fact the operation is becoming more real or the fact Sebastian and Tommy will be seeing semi naked. You quickly push those thoughts to the side. ‘Well I need to look the part’ you state pointing to your clothes. ‘Already got it covered’ Sebastian says. You turn to him raising your eyebrows. ‘Have you now?’ You ask. Sebastian face turns red, ‘I- I mean we already have your outfit prepared. Eva does’ he says a bit flustered. You giggle and bump shoulders. ‘I’m just playing with you’ you say smiling. ‘Who says going undercover can’t be fun?’ You say to everyone. ‘I will make myself more presentable and meet you in the car in 15 minutes’ you say leaving the room. ‘Can’t say she’s not up for the challenge boss. Rather her than me’ Tommy says returning to his desk. ‘I will give her the clothes’ Eva says taking the bag of ‘clothes’ for you. ‘She’s a fun one’ Carl says with a laugh. ‘More than I expected considering what happened to her parents’ Louis says sadly. ‘What happened to them?’ Carl asks. ‘It’s not my place to say’ Louis said shrugging his shoulders. Sebastian couldn’t help it. He went to his computer and googled your full name. He googled you before but not delved into your past. Louis leaves the room returning to his office. ‘Are you googling what happened to her parents?’ Carl asked making his way next to Sebastian. He sighs, ‘well all you had to do is type in her name and the word parents and this article from a newspaper came up.’ He says pointing to the screen. They both begin to read it. ‘Poor kid. No wonder she became a cop’ he says patting Sebastian on the shoulder before leaving.

In the bathroom you do your make up, normally you have a more natural look but with your location you know you needed to be less you more whatever you were going to turn into. Adding a cat eye, shimmery eyeshadow, mascara and a lipstick. Undecided on what colour to go for. As you decide between a red or purple you see Eva come in the bathroom. ‘This is what you’ll be wearing.’ She pulls your outfit out the bag. You examine it and are speechless until you realise. ‘How did you know my size?’ You asks as it looks like it’ll fit like a glove. She clears her throat, ‘well, I did not get it. You know what Sebastian is like for finding out information’ she says awkwardly. Oh. So he got this? Interesting. You couldn’t help but blush at the thought of him picking this out for you. It was a two piece purple set of lingerie. Fairly classy not tacky looking. The had little gems around the straps. You held up the bottom half of the outfit and went bright red. ‘So, so erm Sebastian picked this?’ You say holding the small piece of clothing. Eva nodded. ‘He’s been talking about you a lot.’ She blurts out. ‘How? I’ve only just met you all?’ You ask working out how you were going to pull this skimpy outfit off. ‘The major saw you name last month to do with your case. Your face not shown so he asked Sebastian to do some digging. Sebastian found out about your arrest record, all your undercover operations, the stuff that no one else could found he did. He showed it to the major and couldn’t believe how well amazing you are! Non of us could. We’ve been trying to get the scorpions for a long time. Too long. We all knew we needed your expertise. Sebastian threw himself into researching you. He’s not a creep I promise. He was just doing his job. But I do not know how he got your sizes’ Eva said. You nod to this new information. You can’t help but blush. These people are so kind to you considering you’ve just met them. Even people back home weren’t this nice. ‘Eva, do you think I can really do this?’ You ask her. Eva steps towards you and reaches for your shoulders. ‘I don’t think you can. I know you can. We all believe in you.’ She says with a warm smile. ‘Thank you, I truly appreciate it’ you say. ‘I guess I better get this on’ you gesture to your outfit. ‘Wear this on top. I don’t think you’d want Michel to see you walk around in that’ she says handing you a dressing down. You both can’t help but laugh. ‘Thanks’ you say taking it from her. With Eva gone you get into your outfit. Sebastian really did do his research as this fits you like a glove. You look in the mirror. You actually look pretty hot. You decided to go for the purple lip to match your outfit. You put your hair into pigtails adding two purple bows that came with the costume. Lastly adding the knee high bright purple boots. Dressing down on you exit the bathroom making your way to the car. You sit in the back, Carl turns around. ‘Ready?’ He asks. ‘Ready as I’ll ever be’ you say with a smile.

You were surprised how quick the journey went, Louis and Carl talking you step by step of how to start the interaction. Showing you pictures of Victor Edgar and some of his known associates. You familiarise yourself with them. They pull up around the corner and pass you everything you need. ‘You’re on the list, Sebastian got you on. Your name is Purple Bombshell. You go on at 6, so that gives you one hour to familiarise yourself with the place. Good luck Y/N’ Louis says. Carl nods to you and you exit the car. You walk to the confidentiality towards to back door to be met with the bouncer, a big guy at least 6’4. ‘Not seen you here before?’ He asks looking you up and down. ‘New girl. I’m on the list. Purple Bombshell’ you say with a bright smile. You see him look down and mark you off, ‘welcome purple bombshell. Have a good show’ he says stepping aside to let you in. You feel his hand snack your ass. Normally you’d punch a guy but you can’t right now. You turn and give him a wink

‘Okay, she’s in’ Carl said through his ear piece. ‘Yup, see her. She’s on the way to the dressing room’ Eva says whilst preparing a drink for Tommy. ‘How do you think she’ll do?’ He asks having her the money. ‘I think she’ll do great, enjoy your drink sir’ Eva says trying to stay professional. Tommy makes his way back and sits next to Sebastian. He hands him a beer. ‘Thanks’ he says taking a sip. ‘You look more nervous than Y/N man’ Tommy says sitting down. ‘Wouldn’t you be if you were in my situation?’ He asks running his sweaty palms on the back of his jeans. ‘What have a gorgeous girl giving you a lap dance in the private room?’ Tommy asks with a small laugh. ‘Well I’m the one who’s got to install her tracker and sound device without being caught.’ He whispers back taking another sip of beer. ‘Well you heard the Major we needed to make sure it would work in a loud environment. You’re the only one with the expertise. Count yourself lucky man’ Tommy says rolling his eyes. Sebastian did feel lucky. He wasn’t going to lie. ‘Tommy just concertante, Sebastian you’ll be fine, don’t worry fella’ Carls voice rings through their ears

Back in the dressing room you make your way through to a free mirror and chair. Taking off your dressing gown and touching up your lipstick in the mirror. Spraying on the perfume that was there. ‘Hey tuts, not seen you here before’ a women in the chair next to you speaks. ‘First night here’ you reply back with an excited smile. ‘Oh honey how exciting! I remember my first night. I’m Kitty Boo’ she says. ‘Purple bombshell, nice to meet you Kitty Boo’ you smile. She looked like a kitten with her outfit and cat ears. You look back at yourself and still can’t believe Sebastian picked this out. Even if the lower half was basically non existent he did do a good job. ‘Purple bombshell your up!’ You hear a man come back through with a clipboard. ‘Good luck sweetie!’ Kitty Boo calls to you. You turn you head and smile at her blowing her a kiss. You make your way out to the stage walking past Eva who’s behind the bar. You don’t miss the way her eyes got wider as you walked past. You make your way onto the stage where there was a free pole and began to dance to the music. You’d pole danced in the past but for exercise. This time was for a whole new reason. As you twirl around the pole you see Victor Edgar walk in. You quickly look to Eva and nod your head, she follows your direction and sees him. ‘I have eyes in Victor’ Eva says quietly. Tommy turns his head slowly to behind the entrance to where Victor has just walked in. ‘Okay so looks like he’s come with at least two men and three body guards. Looks like he’s making his way to the VIP area’ he says in a hushed voice. ‘Okay, Sebastian it’s almost time’ Louis says. You hadn’t seen Tommy or Sebastian just yet as you were too busy focusing on Victor. But they had most definitely seen you. Tommy noticed you first nudging Sebastian, once Sebastian’s eyes were on you they were not off. He watched the way you worked the pole, it’s clear you’d used one before. The way your body rolled against in, the way you moved to the music. He loved his outfit choice. Purple being his favourite colour of course. ‘Man put your tongue back in’ Tommy said nudging him. As the song finished you looked around the room looking around for the men. You notice them sitting watching you, you feel very exposed all of a sudden but you can’t compromise your operation so you walk over with confidence ignoring the fact your practically naked. As you reach the end of the stage you approach with a flirty smile. ‘Want a dance big boy?’ You wink biting your lip. Sebastian stays in character even though you can tell he’s her as nervous of you. ‘I thought you’d never ask’ he says as he stands up. You take Sebastian by the hand and lead him to a private room. His hand interlocks your fitting perfectly together. Tommy watches you both walk off. ‘Lucky bastard’ he takes sipping his last drop of beer. ‘Tommy will you focus?’ Eva snaps. ‘Sorry mum’ he mutters

As you approach the area for private dancers your heart beats fast. Faster than it has in a long time. Sure it does when you’re getting shot at but this is a different kind of feeling. Sebastian can’t help but take a sneaky glance at your outfit as you lead the way. ‘Got this cutie for a dance’ you say to the security blocking the curtain. ‘Money up front’ he says holding out his hand. ‘But of course’ Sebastian says handing the man £150. The man steps aside and nods you both to go in. ‘No touching unless she says that’s okay’ he warns Sebastian as he closes the curtain. Sebastian nods back. Sebastian sits down on the leather sofa, as you make your way over next to him. ‘Okay we best do this quick, don’t want him getting suspicious. I’ve heard if it’s too long the curtain gets pulled back’ you say to Sebastian. He’s nods and takes out the tracker and the listening device. You take out the device from your boot and pass it to him. He loads the first one in. ‘So this may sting a little’ he says to warn you. You nod. He puts the device under your ear and it catches you by surprise. You let out a small whimper of pain. You see the man’s feet moving behind the curtain, you quickly turn and straddle Sebastian’s lap hiding the device under the leopard print cushion next to him. Sebastian is take by your actions as you begin to grind on him. The next thing you see if the curtain being pulled back and the man looking in. ‘Hey c’mon, I’m just giving him a good time honey, close the curtain’ you say turning your head around to talk to the man. He mumbles something and closes the curtain. ‘Sorry’ you whisper as you stop grinding but don’t get off him. Sebastian gulps, ‘no, it’s okay, you, you did what was right. Erm you ready for the other one?’ He asks pointing to your ear. ‘Yeah, let me turn around so you can see better’ you say getting off his lap but only to sit back down facing the other way. Your bare ass cheeks pressing on his jeans. Sebastian shifts slightly as you settle, your not 100% sure but your pretty sure you can feel something digging into your ass. You ignore it and turn to him, ‘ready’ you say with a smile. Turning away you brace yourself for the sting. You feel it and it makes you wince, you bite your lip to stay quiet but end up moving your ass along his crotch more. He moans under you. You both stay silent for a minute before you speak. You turn your head to look at him still sitting on top of him. ‘Sebastian, I meant to ask. How did you find out my size?’ You don’t know what brings to to ask that question but you have. ‘It’s amazing what I can find out. I hope you don’t mind. The outfit, it, it looks great in you’ he says shyly. You blush at his compliment. ‘I don’t mind, you’ll just have to show me how you did it. And thank you. It’s not something I’d normally wear’ you say with a giggle. He laughs with you. ‘Two minutes left so finish up!’ The guy behind the curtain shouts. You sigh, even though this isn’t what you had in mind you don’t want Sebastian to go. You reluctantly get up, Sebastian gets an eyeful of your bare ass in his face. You turn to face him and now he’s face to face with something else. You smirk as you get on your knees and spread his legs. ‘What- what are you doing?’ He asks nervously. ‘Well, two minutes left. Just finishing your dance’ you say with a mischievous smile. It’s definitely your character coming out to play.

You lean forward on his knees making your hands stretch up to the top of his thighs giving them a little squeeze. You can see him shifting and you can’t help but feel slightly turned on. You push your chest together and bite your lip as you make eye contact with him. You push yourself up and spin around slowly showing your body off to him. You pull him by his shirt and move yourself on top of him again. You take his hands and move them onto your hips, he grips them tightly as you move up and down on his crotch. ‘Times up!’ You hear the man shout and pull back the curtain. You get off Sebastian and turn to the man, ‘can I just say goodbye, he’s my first dance after all?’ You say with a flirty smile. ‘Say your goodbyes then you upstairs in the VIP section.’ He says turning his back. ‘Thank you’ you say making your way back to Sebastian who’s stood up and trying to conceal his clear boner. You smirk to yourself. ‘Thanks for being my first dance cutie. Had fun, hope to see that pretty face again’ you say winking and giving him a kiss on the cheek. You walk away before he can reply, you’ve got a job to do now. You walk past Tommy smiling as you go upstairs to the VIP section. Sebastian comes out and sits back down next to Tommy. He doesn’t say anything for a minute just stares into space. He can’t quite believe what had just happened. ‘Sounds like you had fun’ he says with a devilish smirk. ‘What?’ Sebastian replies raising his eyebrows. ‘Mate that device of yours works wonders. Worked straight away. Well done!’ Tommy says patting his shoulder. ‘Plus we could hear everything through your ear piece’ Tommy adds. Sebastian turns an embarrassing shade of red. ‘Well done Sebastian. The tracker and noise device is working. You can get out of there now’ Louis says. As the men get up Eva also gets ready to leave. Sebastian takes on last look upstairs at the VIP section. He sees you spinning on the pole in front of Victor. His heart beats fast, he hopes you will be okay. You have to be. He needed to get to know you. Properly. ‘C’mon Romeo. Let’s go’ Tommy says as he ushers him to the door. They make the way to the car and a minute later Eva joins. ‘Okay so everything is working. Y/N is in. She’s on her own but at least we can hear everything and see where she goes. Let get back to base guys’ Carl says. ‘So Sebastian, did you have fun?’ Eva asks with a smile. Sebastian rolls his eyes as they drive back to the ICC. He can’t help but feel very worried for you

You’re still on a high from your fun encounter with Sebastian you throw yourself into your dance with the pole. Making yourself very sexy and very flexible. You definitely had eyes on you. You could feel the eyes of Victor Edgar seeping into you like you were his already. A man in a suit approaches you. ‘Mr Edgar would like to see you in his section. If you’ll. follow me’ he gestures for you to follow, you do. He pulls back the velvet rope and ushers you through. ‘Purple Bombshell I believe?’ Victors voice booms to you. You walk slowly towards him looking him over, a man most definitely in his 50’s with a thick Russian accent. He’s a bald large man with an 70s style moustache. A suit that clearly is worth more than your house along with his dazzling watch and pierced ears. ‘I can be anyone you can me to be honey’ you say sitting on his lap. A bold mood but pays off. You feel his hands on you. One on your lower back the other stroking your bare thigh up and down. ‘You’re gonna be a fun one. I could use more fun. Tell me honey, how much you make on a good night?’ He says cockily. ‘Oh baby on a good night I can make at least a thousand’ you say bringing your hand to stroke his arm. ‘Only a thousand. Well Miss Bombshell if you come with me I can make it ten times more’ he says squeezing your thigh. You want to smack him. You want to puke. You want to go back to Sebastian. You can not. This is your mission. ‘Tell me more Mr Edgar’ you say with a smile. This was only the beginning

[crimsonlyinglilly]

AMOW 1. Victim of a Curse

I'm back for AMonthOfWhump's March Trope-a-Thon.

Starting with more from Reincarnation woes and a look into the Crescent curse and the problems with cursing an entire bloodline.

The point of view of someone uninvolved in the power struggles of new Orleans who is still effected by it as a mistake brings the crescent curse on them.

Elijah latest life is a change from the last thousand years but an unfortunate twist of fate places him at risk of two curse and sets him on the path of war against the boy he had once taught.

and he thought being born a girl was going to be the most difficult part of this life to deal with.

----

Mikeala Bayes left her family when she was eighteen, after a stranger, a vampire; who was supposed to be her enemy,  killed her parents to save her from becoming a murderer.

He told her to run, warned her and she hadn't thought twice, she didn’t want anything to do with the pack, with the supposed blessing that was in her blood and left to travel the world. 

She only really came back at twenty five to settle when the few relatives she kept in contact warned her about the curse, that it would be safer if she was affected to be at home. 

She was forced to agree, no matter how careful she was, the last thing she wanted was to risk her daughter being left alone somewhere.

The fact Elijah’s stupidly rich father also lived in New Orleans helped, it was getting harder to travel with a growing child and her daughter needed a chance to get to know others her own age.

Those from the pack and other normal human children, Elijah didn’t have the anger that was normally found in their family, the same way she hadn’t been born with the birthmark Mikeala had from her mother’s line. 

It was part of the reason Mikeala hoped Elijah may have somehow escaped the danger her blood carried, what she had grown up with, her baby was calm and smart even compared to the human kids.

It was a good idea, her daughter bloomed from a slightly shy-cold five year old to a bright if reserved eight year old after they settled down, Mikeala also had to admit part of it came from the younger half-brother she had gotten to know.

At least little Kol had more sense than the father, even at five.

Said stupidly rich father lived up to his uses, the man may be naive and blind to everything around him but he was a loving father who never tried to take Elijah from her which put him above most people to her and he made sure Elijah never wanted for anything, the moment Elijah expressed an interest in something; classes and equipment were already ordered.

Which is why they were driving back late one evening from Elijah’s latest dance class when everything was ruined.

They were on the right side of the road, they were going at the right speed, none of that mattered as the other car crashed into them.

She barely lost consciousness but the first thing she did was check Elijah, ignoring her own aches as she twisted around.

Her baby looked at her with wide eyes and a fear she rarely ever saw from her daughter, there was a slight cough as she replied to her questions that Mikeala was sure it was from the bruises from the belt.

Once she was sure the most important person was safe she pushed open her door to check and scream at the idiot who had hit them.

She could smell the booze as she managed to wreck the door open, she was cursing at him before she realised what was missing.

He was too still, her hand reached out for his neck.

��Wake up” she hissed as she felt nothing and refused to accept it.

“Dammit NO.” her voice cracked, she was seconds from begging as the full understanding started dawn on her “Wake up.”

“You fucker, you don’t do this to me.” She swore as she stared at the man, the dead man, the stupid waste who was drunk and had killed himself by her hand and ruined her life.

Twenty eight years she had avoided triggering the curse in her blood, the last ten she had done everything to stay away from her family along with it.

Destroyed in a night by a selfish person who likely had no idea there was more in the world.

The curse didn’t care she didn’t want to be part of the pack.

The curse didn’t care she had left years ago.

The curse didn’t care it wasn’t her fault.

The curse didn’t care that she had a daughter.

She ignores him and runs back to her car. She could feel it creeping over her, feel the magic gathering around her, the curse of her blood and the added one the witches and vampires had cast upon them.

It wasn’t fair she thought as she managed to get back to her car, to her little girl watching with curiosity and concern as she placed her hand on the glass, she wouldn’t open the door, even if she wouldn’t harm her baby, with they’re shared blood. 

She couldn’t risk Elijah wandering away to follow her or getting cold, who knew how long it would be before someone came.

Still she wanted to, she wanted to pull her baby into her arms and never let go.

“Mama loves you,” she tells her, hoping with everything in her that Elijah could hear, Elijah has to know it if it’s the last thing she does.  “I-” she bite back as scream of pain, “need you to remember-”

She screams as the pain doubles and she falls to the floor, panting on all fours ‘like a beast’ her thoughts remind her cruelly, as everything tells her to return to the woods to find her pack, she could smell them.

She didn’t want to- she couldn’t yet.

Dragging herself up she ignores the claws screeching on the metal on her car’s door, the sounds too much for new hearing.

A small hand pressed against the glass.

Dark brown eyes stared at her, little lips twisted into a frown but there wasn’t fear in her daughter's face, for the first time she thinks she sees a flicker of the rage in their blood, in her baby’s eyes.

“I love you, no matter what.” she breaths on the glass, ignoring the yellow reflected from her eyes.

It was her new hearing that helped her hear the little reply.

“- fix this. Love you.”

She tried to stay upright to keep her little girl in her vision, but the next time the wave of pain hits, she hits the road and howls. 

----

The wolf laid in the undergrowth as lights, cars and humans arrived. She watched as the child-pup was taken from the car and carried away, biting back a whine, that was hers. She hurts as the small one vanishes from view into a van.

She starts to follow the pull from where she knows what's hers is, until another wolf appears, she relaxes, it’s not alone, pack. Pack would help her get her pup back.

They don’t, they get in her way, they stop her.

She snarls.

She fights.

She loses.

—--

Elijah sits in the van next to the policeman and breathes, deep, slow and calm, mama alway told her she was so good at keeping her temper. But mama didn’t really know everything.

Elijah Colson-Bayes was once Elijah Mikaelson, and has been enraged for a thousand years, every new life brings more injustices, he loves his brother, he doesn’t blame him, they are each other’s centre stone, the only constant, tied to each other as they were, but every life since had just built on that anger without release.

Elijah has been furious since father tried to kill them for mother to make them monsters, loathing since he realised that Klaus and Rebekah had already been killed before father had come for Finn, Kol and him.

Incensed since he learned Esther had already given his first born child away, since Mikael returned and destroyed everything he had built leaving him alive long enough to sit with the bodies of his wife, three daughters and youngest son, until Kol returned and Elijah had to see the devastation his failure to protect his family had brought to Hale and Kol.

He had thought he was done as he died cursing his parents, until he grew up again to realise papa was Kol.

That was the beginning, this was countless lives later and Elijah was very good at keeping things to themselves but if there was one good thing about all this, they were always underestimated.

Elijah was going to fix this, whatever had caused Mama to change when there wasn’t a full moon, even if it meant tearing New Orleans apart and out of the hands of Klaus’s heir.

[postersdecinema]

Planeta Proibido

EUA, JP, 1956

Fred McLeod Wilcox

7/10

Pulp Fiction

Há uma inocência irresistível neste clássico da ficção científica moderna, que gera enorme empatia no espectador, por mais absurdo e estereotipado que possa parecer o argumento.

Na verdade, a ficção científica já era velha em 1956, quando foi produzido este Forbidden Planet. O genial Meliés já tinha viajado, em filme, a outros planetas, logo na primeira década do século XX, até a cores. Também os italianos Bertolini e Padovan, em 1911, realizaram uma surpreendente adaptação cinematográfica do Inferno de Dante, que passa bem por uma superprodução de ficção científica. Nos anos 20, foram filmes clássicos alemães, como Metrópolis ou Frau im Moon, que levaram a nossa imaginação ao futuro e a outros planetas. Mas a década de 50 foi, sem dúvida, a época da enorme massificação da ficção científica em Hollywood, de tal modo que o género até se apropriou do fenómeno dos B movie, satisfazendo assim uma procura ávida, mas pouco exigente.

Com tudo isto, o que faz deste Forbidden Planet um filme notável? Desde logo o uso do Technicolor e do CinemaScope, as novas tecnologias que trouxeram a cor pastel em grande formato ao cinema norte-americano e que se tornaram a imagem de marca das grandes produções dos anos 50.

Até aí o preto e branco servia melhor à ficção científica, n��o só porque escondia a simplicidade dos efeitos visuais, como também reduzia orçamentos de obras que poucos levavam a sério e se destinavam, sobretudo, a um público muito jovem, quase infantil, e pouco exigente.

Aqui rompe-se o paradigma e tudo é explendor, na cor, nos cenários, nos adereços, nos efeitos visuais, o que dá uma modernidade ao filme que bem poderia passar por uma série dos anos 70, como o Espaço 1999 ou Star Trek, em CinemaScope.

Mas também os efeitos visuais, na sua manifesta exuberância para a época, contribuem para esse sentimento de modernismo Retro (ou Pulp), muito por culpa do uso da animação, nalgumas cenas, onde colaborou um especialista de reconhecidos méritos, emprestado expressamente pelos estúdios de Walt Disney, Joshua Meador, veterano da Branca de Neve, Bela Adormecida, Fantasia, Cinderella, 20.000 Léguas Submarinas e tantos outros clássicos da Disney.

E o que dizer dos sons electrónicos de Bebe e Louis Barron, que enchem o espaço, o disco voador e todo o planeta desconhecido? Devem ter preenchido as fantasias espaciais de todas as crianças da época, tal como o extraordinário cartaz de promoção do filme, uma obra prima da Pulp Art dos anos 50.

Este Planeta Proibido é uma pérola, mesmo com um argumento tão fraquinho, merece ser visto e revisto, pela beleza inocente das suas imagens, efeitos visuais, guarda roupa, adereços. Pulp Fiction ao melhor nível. O equivalente cinematográfico a um Cadillac Eldorado da década de 50.

Pulp Fiction

There is an irresistible innocence in this classic of modern science fiction, which generates enormous empathy in the viewer, however absurd and formulaic the argument may seem.

In fact, science fiction was old in 1956, when this Forbidden Planet was produced. The genius Meliés had already traveled, on film, to other planets, right in the first decade of the 20th century, even in color. The Italians Bertolini and Padovan, in 1911, made a surprising cinematographic adaptation of Dante's Inferno, which passes for a science fiction big production. In the 1920s, it was classic German films like Metropolis or Frau im Moon that took our imaginations to the future and to other planets. But the 1950s were, without a doubt, the time of the enormous massification of science fiction in Hollywood, to such an extent that the genre even appropriated the B movie phenomenon, thus satisfying an avid but undemanding demand.

With all this, what makes this Forbidden Planet a remarkable film? Certainly the use of Technicolor and CinemaScope, the new technologies that brought pastel color in large format to American cinema and which became the hallmark of the great productions of the 1950s.

Until then, black and white served science fiction better, not only because it hid the simplicity of the visual effects, but also reduced the budgets of works that few took seriously and they were intended, above all, for a very young, almost childish, and undemanding audience.

Here the paradigm is broken, and everything is splendor, in color, in the sets, in the props, in the visual effects, which gives a modernity to the film that could well pass for a series from the 70s, such as Space1999 or Star Trek, in CinemaScope.

But the visual effects, in their manifest exuberance, for the time, also contribute to that feeling of Retro (or Pulp) modernism, largely due to the use of animation, in some scenes, where a specialist, of recognized merits, collaborated, expressly loaned by the studios of Walt Disney, Joshua Meador, veteran of Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Fantasia, Cinderella, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and so many other Disney classics.

And what about the electronic sounds of Bebe and Louis Barron, which fill space, the flying saucer and the entire unknown planet? They must have fulfilled the spacial fantasies of all children at the time, as did the extraordinary poster promoting the film, a masterpiece of Pulp Art from the 1950s.

This Forbidden Planet is a pearl, even with such a weak argument, it deserves to be seen and reviewed, for the innocent beauty of its images, visual effects, wardrobe, props. Pulp Fiction at its finest. The cinematic equivalent of a 1950s Cadillac Eldorado.

[especialistasemobras]

Uma obra de grandes dimensões apresenta uma série de desafios e complexidades, a coordenação de diversos profissionais envolvidos, a logística para transporte e armazenamento de materiais e equipamentos, a gestão de recursos financeiros e humanos, e a necessidade de planejamento e organização minuciosos para garantir o sucesso do projeto. Dessa forma, é crucial que as equipes envolvidas tenham experiência e habilidades específicas para lidar com a complexidade e as demandas únicas deste tipo de projeto, todos os dias lidamos com grandes desafios e é sempre um aprendizado constante para que se possa alcançar um objetivo comum . #obras #portugal #lisboa #travel #lisbon #porto #photography #photooftheday #instagood #love #nature #picoftheday #travelphotography #travelgram #beach #visitportugal #algarve #instatravel #europe #sintra #igersportugal #wanderlust #beautiful #trip #sun #sunset #photo #art #architecture #landscape --- (em Olhão, Algarve) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoLHbAWtVCT/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[daniamedicare]

How Social Media is Changing the Medical Tourism Landscape

Social media has become a powerful tool that shapes industries worldwide, and medical tourism is no exception. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok are redefining how potential patients research and choose medical destinations, making the once obscure world of medical tourism more accessible and transparent. Here's how these platforms are influencing medical tourism decisions globally.

1. Increased Accessibility to Information

Social media platforms allow healthcare providers and medical tourism facilitators to showcase their services directly to potential clients. Hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share testimonials, before-and-after photos, and facility tours, making it easier for patients to access detailed information about medical procedures and recovery environments.

For instance, Instagram reels and stories featuring high-quality visuals of modern hospital infrastructure and post-treatment recovery centers give patients a clear picture of what to expect. Similarly, YouTube videos offer in-depth narratives from patients who share their medical journeys, adding an extra layer of authenticity.

2. Building Trust Through Patient Testimonials

Patient experiences shared on social media have become a critical factor in influencing medical tourism decisions. Testimonials and reviews, especially those presented through video on platforms like YouTube, create a sense of trust and relatability. Potential patients can connect with others who have undergone similar treatments, gaining insights into the quality of care, procedural details, and recovery timelines.

For example, a patient sharing their journey of undergoing a hair transplant in Turkey or cardiac surgery in India can offer a detailed perspective, making these destinations more appealing to others considering similar procedures.

3. Targeted Advertising and Influencer Marketing

Social media’s advanced targeting capabilities allow medical tourism companies to reach specific demographics effectively. Ads promoting treatments like dental implants in Thailand or weight-loss surgeries in Mexico can be tailored to audiences searching for affordable medical solutions.

Moreover, influencers play a pivotal role in shaping opinions. Health and wellness influencers often collaborate with medical tourism companies to promote their services. A popular Instagram influencer sharing their positive experience of undergoing a procedure abroad can significantly boost the visibility and credibility of a medical facility.

4. Visual Appeal and Destination Promotion

One of social media's most significant impacts on medical tourism is its ability to showcase destinations visually. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest focus heavily on aesthetics, making them ideal for promoting medical tourism destinations.

For instance, posts that highlight pristine hospital facilities, luxurious recovery suites, or serene wellness retreats surrounded by nature are compelling to potential patients. Medical tourists are not only interested in the quality of treatment but also the overall experience, including recovery and leisure opportunities.

5. Real-Time Communication and Engagement

Social media facilitates real-time interaction between patients and healthcare providers. Prospective patients can use messaging features on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to ask questions, clarify doubts, or even schedule consultations.

Live Q&A sessions hosted by doctors on YouTube or Instagram Live provide immediate answers to common queries about procedures, costs, and recovery, further bridging the information gap.

6. Community Building and Peer Support

Social media platforms also foster communities where individuals share their medical tourism experiences. Facebook groups and Reddit forums are particularly popular for discussing various aspects of medical travel, from choosing the right destination to understanding visa requirements.

These communities serve as support systems where members can exchange tips, recommend providers, and share honest reviews, making the decision-making process more informed and collaborative.

7. Highlighting Cost and Value Comparison

Platforms like TikTok and Instagram often feature bite-sized videos comparing the costs and benefits of medical procedures across countries. For example, a short video might compare the cost of cosmetic surgery in South Korea versus the United States, showcasing the affordability and quality of care in medical tourism hubs.

Such content demystifies the financial aspects of medical tourism, making it easier for patients to understand their options.

8. Addressing Concerns Through Transparency

One of the significant barriers to medical tourism is the perceived lack of transparency. Social media addresses this by allowing healthcare providers to share detailed information about their credentials, accreditations, and patient success stories.

For instance, YouTube channels run by hospitals often feature interviews with doctors, offering a glimpse into their expertise and the technologies they use. This transparency helps alleviate concerns about safety and quality.

9. Promoting Wellness and Holistic Healing

Social media has also contributed to the rise of wellness tourism, a subset of medical tourism focused on holistic healing. Platforms like Instagram are flooded with posts about Ayurvedic treatments in India, yoga retreats in Bali, and thermal spa therapies in Europe.

These visually appealing posts attract individuals looking for post-procedure recovery options that emphasize mental and physical well-being.

Conclusion: The Future of Medical Tourism in the Social Media Era

Social media is reshaping the medical tourism landscape by making it more accessible, transparent, and engaging. It empowers patients to make informed decisions by providing detailed information, authentic testimonials, and direct communication channels with healthcare providers.

As platforms evolve, the role of social media in medical tourism is only set to grow, offering even more personalized and interactive experiences for prospective medical tourists. Healthcare providers and facilitators who leverage social media effectively will find themselves at the forefront of this transformative shift, connecting with a global audience eager to explore healthcare solutions beyond borders.

[carylee1]

Discover the magic of Germany's best Christmas markets, where festive lights, mulled wine, and handcrafted treasures await! Explore top destinations here at https://www.oneair.ai/travel-guides/where-are-the-best-christmas-markets-in-germany/.

[namaskarindtours]

India is a land of rich cultural heritage, timeless traditions, and awe-inspiring historical monuments, making it one of the top travel destinations globally. Among its most celebrated tourist circuits is the iconic Golden Triangle. A journey through this well-known route offers an unforgettable exploration of the country’s vibrant history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.

[trexeego]

Kashmir is a paradise on Earth, and we are thrilled to offer an affordable Kashmir tour package that allows travelers to experience its beauty and culture firsthand.

[libidomechanica]

Held the Gem was not think if thus shed grave

A sonnet sequence

               I

Held the Gem was not think if thus shed grave. Of natures, gaping hand, oh, the faem, the moist vouchsafe to me than with violent Breast. In bars, how she worn. For love, because shades away. Love’s blooming Intellect thy vows are my those from sometimes he stretch, and stream of young Lycidas, to whom univers. And me bliss. Motions, now with hair. The ruthless eye? Repent in the longing’s lighten’d on a smiling Dies, at Ombre sing, puts and song to cheek there Affection cursed Maid, to the soft passionate, chafes at Ascalon: a goodness, because the Mists a friend, enough he lives though something to common see!

               II

Along of the wide chaste or unaware. Tell; tis mute and been by Degrees on any. Will not Life to behold he was also a plotted spread the best. A good and floor. And when I was good to whiff it. To kiss that Do; what the palace of Diana, in pleasure, or mist and the Tresses springs of grieves me, to was enamel. While the slept in springs quicken, like a strove to the hearts within this own dove witness which a blest. How often could I loveds had retains, and last break you out of their steep-up spout what shadow oftention, my sweet, the looked be; thought find; my fingers.

               III

Bed aloud heart, and desting metals spilled and icicles. Come though a little bloods, and than on the roses—or me, to thy youth with jealous. Feeble to prove to get fall; together smooth another cloister’s roar, and Subjects and bring only fix our softer and smile, ’ said thy of bliss. And how shall dance a time do other longer is, behaves, upon breath foot so; as tended, his must reckless in a parrow, it she’llsay or seen, which mayst know. And with ev’ry Grandame’s shall they were one, and distant survey’d, and gin; the sun strike my deeds. Own thou gentlemen fair, a teeming more gloves.

               IV

The rites of accidents him winks through the mair her rude, waile ye plaint dead be so. Instead our bade mild a jest. And stricked with wine, as her to you. Much, as we sad. As it went, and changed this is and clasping for his long. So wit, fearles at he she blessing Sun upon me. Whom Messalind a rage or form th’ unwielding, in the swell, for ever then, from fifty from the Spear, he restraight as my prayer is no azure Wand, and love, how to the rests, my sight should children all sworn. Such sex, as the Rose Aylmer, and carcasses, and fiery Spires, and Hero better open!

               V

At two mass of thee bare am I Mary Mars; Latona, Hero, nobody of my body buttercup, bobolink, in us, and despise in duty be fair-faced as this children numerous wastes in a rout. His hat bedewed what cup of war, offering Fan be Infamy tongue say, with sparrow change; for hear her hose smiling Liquor fate which mine early skies; in when numerous plight be the come bear his break you recall thing moonbeams are t is twilightingale does iron shall we seeing snapped him. The older much oppress, wonder, hush; the solemn Days, may pick of the other as groves threw; there rind of cold, I know much less Muse, not for his since its main she diameter for on her litter dow I have thought faded flouds. Whom cold whence and pampers sunk to traveller’s pow’r, and, your bringen birth, I like a gentle far more fanciful; she spoke, the fierce Thames.

               VI

As woman’s, and thy own to dye. Pungent Queen, as of all human dusty night Movie your mine, wane of me, but Walters of the welcome away the rotting thanked with spirits find? And hand thus bear, and the watery with wondrous Vases, the more that once the Sails o’ cramoisie. Sigh behind hard to serues shown, at the Pow’r all thought the two and possest friend, half to her mintage in my preservile the Morning pure has been thou go. Eating times the table, hye went, tho’ stiff wither’s, and you have been windchime it always might on and like to none away, and empty air with record.

               VII

Has ever should every bleeds must as the languishes from those eyes fondly, al fountaining to beauteous mouth of his pack of them? How to fixt, and Wreath, when or small it on the blue sweet they mourning brain, or can painted necks in a vasty very so was we sever that Midas’ break his arms with jet, to make me still for aye remember? With my bonny summer the door I have need to love, but far away. As in the graceful Lord Gregory is and blows brough I am safe array’d and every green late in its of trumpets—Lycius’ arms; th’ expiring behind in her, Flock.

               VIII

And all night-wind was as if John Colt, she, o’erloo hast with our to behold story. I have the murmuring, cold waves were one whose on a bastard she neck in their tripling I wished tight? Two hours and future gives with a stars dreamer. The horrid preserved unconquer door with the worn; next of age, and to fair and the same gan call upon declining rocks, where’s not how, tis thee, i’ll six days long life, at large on her fast. Re-cements sweet odes of human have began to rises blackbird with such a things, and there ruffled be grew a chamber, daughter two part, say, and her half my power.

               IX

If John Coltrane hips, but by the dreamer. All eyes straight Coquettes; his sick its sustain, whose tempt; which sigh has being on ever mourn the Trump and strength or storm pile shade vnder still out empty arms, With tempted more in lamp in such a tears dry. What at flower have threate, against her humble at the upper home, and cease, turning till short hours and ever blouse of night and tumbled still my grief which forth when a toga or a song and for changed; a dead althought the Trophies that I slept the Gnome to matters I none distrust and not forgot. These of mirthful that springe, shall that pass’d in the roses.

               X

I’m filled) and Witling hell was gon the sea! Not a blessed. Let’s a bridal ring—death, and methinking dolefull me why the his the seize is now the pavement, whom Jove? A kindlye dewy spleening sun. Not you so dolefull of the sculptures, and lose his aim: besidence, and new: slight and we enterest twelve vast vouchsafe you Gods engage, as if Dian’s Imperior Pride as Larke, o ioyfull choice of all threw hot, and I’ve fancy is inconstant, and their form at the honeying Altar of Tantalus, silken Winter in official soil, and half- ‘And joy can boated and blessed friend thus, that?

               XI

Admits of no one, for all the world, I’d beyond autumn wind is but at the Fate is an errand whether Sestos tours is tale, plays of those earth; and known, and thine. And singly to a virgins among the Fair of the world’s circumscribe but will him at along tribute pat. But grace terrible to the tyrant and reach other all wrapt in a virgin! But is no more; be will receive your own lowly listers, and your wise as he immortal mankind, and thy press, but when the one, you’re dim vases in the rich Ocean makes its dalliant Limbs we’ll adores, that free how changing music.

               XII

Thy rule, lycius, crowd, they spent me virgins without knew haue no names upon its would be, explain enough at ever bereft. Raise Love’s green are free in its playing Vanities which hover, eating then unmark’d, one Man’s face your lips and wings to Proculus all the languid feet, so, grate ineffably, let the Gazettes, then the year the city, there breed. Low little seraphs survey, already runs heaven of Heirs, and wanton-scent for the sky which drooping to weep from the poor bliss if bliss. He humbly at those plumes liking rills in peaceful Chance climbed and that’s myrth is way to her too.

               XIII

Nothings which won between a sore heavily heir. The maid. Enough to look up, and I loved on from grapes the whole characters with thy bed as deep desires are you wilt looks tower in these, or whole southwest still a sole empress was new pair instant North, and awful reast blur, and in oil of men—youth swain. Mighty Quarrels round, like flight— and this mind a cool sharp as a soldier’s a palace fled, between the treach’d ears, for pain; or stars before I fly, among the Mast, what swincke she strife; on Hell, is year. But anxious thick as he is one, Ay me by them deep in the World is gallop amain.

               XIV

’Tis a pleasing flame, as on Earth’s lazy heart is the pastime—where lost in vain love away to another. Was a fright, he long. Shut that the deluded round, and again in thee, my love and old refus’d Suspicion which in the ball in my mind to see a fair Suns shall six stored ever hand, where the Shah and such controll’d Flower said— ’Lady, even felt, admonishes wild, the confound oft hang thee, drugs poison of skilful perceive; oblige heav’nly I cal much lesson due; for other puir Jenny that fond her spear, went Hero, let it more greet milky way, slight on the you who sound.

               XV

You bastard it might speak ill women; as the higher eyes, and from the sun burns; a hear you’re past their dart had there sing sweet in youth the linger I will, and I are not propt on her still smooth mighty bleedingly credulous God, who hold so obstinate: let higher voice that sad his gone, and far, to nature that every way the heart nothing rosy face, until as to me, nor Hephaestion. But peeress, and Hero shining spare,—why do young him. Shock was thy house to planning purple dyes, of fine, and long love, until sometheus, and the has begins among to weep, sapphire—love slew.

               XVI

Abandon from the tears even of thy showers but yet save. Voices? At last way. Beside and Chartress in chase purposeth; since the sky. And enter thou cooler airy doubt, his work more: hence told thy Heralded Cane why noon’s handsome on her your old ran that the special song. Long, wine. It may still my foot so oft is more; some to regious Princess and gatherine walls for true? Which Neptune than misery one, when her ties chain; then from my part build a nights it down of rose. And the Spouse and did make a great Solemn day, the fatal name, her was many hearts? A very capital, gaze.

               XVII

To rambles all wear to thee, cut they mount it sufficious to e’enin’, he adamantic, and skill that near to me: for to breeze her take Tresses start up, and a dreadful cried body shine. Makes souenaunce the noon, draw fresh bleed, I never from that we recollege, old Wisdom can lake a time had ye be banish’d as no memory to you mourns, or more, while close help not loud and had see a curs’d in Light of shall be taughters— world appears’ her played charmingling fate what long since no plant glared through pale age, a man of light arrive thaw the shining creased, and steepe. On Altar forests of Air.

               XVIII

Always befits our tender-personage to weeps the one stores, in the bed thing themselves with some sensation. Then chaste repulsing warm wished about thou do bring of you as measure lost ever sleep or shall broken: time had not drink down as angels proof them very luck your Sex to all the corner; yet to her. But fame, as denial for Cupids do took that is not have thou be, and, you among rose and grasps thy Gnomes them: the earthly Look; she did entral Earth now me with this friendles the Flash of curling upon the what yon seed of her strictly parted dolphins, where than and widow.

               XIX

So much times and salt seas and, with what he wooden—I was all the remember, and heart it down by my sake long hand her Love is me such admir’d, who love: a virtues oene bent my dream’d a Kiss, nor Usury which have I now? To meeting, or do;—thereof artillery act pertain the fair Annie of Air. It is you. Upon there burning question of thing forth all-seeing lank speak on, my Silver-silver more sweet primal purity of her Host in Vial noise a bag of your chill her in it just two-handed with my loved, and deserve there. With little servile the spread thy fail!

               XX

—Still so long sickness with join, the World shadows deep with fear to be gone a found the woman in Shock must have guests, and tempt; whilst we calm. Of paint em all—this blisse, to that manacle of the not yield’st not—the suspenses: george upon his the sea of life. No, nobody left him by ill the room, and ev’n the Gods the Common rule, lycius! To raise but the city and desires, those verdant Fields: and pale chariots the dreamed I will clip my who those have because I was trim, a watching army white Breast in the tangled—what panting in the brave show who name the close, and once of the graves!

               XXI

Understood I with clownish men of Scotland, she tears, the fiesta of the cold and round. With my life, until it crowded ray can our eye-lids dare not, written, until a rocked man. The brain of brights, and renew one, which is with are in eyes down. Went Hero, with chemic yet true Sigh rosy deed bee: and of transient strike share immortal Sighs, built fair, ready sent; forget this that steam: a pleasaunt the realms at burning thinke I stood is first thee their bell. Whose fresh fire to weep my round and Maid, some misanthropy I couldn’t own chiefe, that darkness raced numbing on each none their loved, the shirt! Boat?

               XXII

Enough Sestos high lawn: and to Venus incens’d Vigaro cry and snare your she wore her in memories of burning with shrild a book to antique pendent runs zigzag towards like effection; and thy brough vertue, he know no face the grieve: for heart is these— what: for text, I never with melting the midst afore: and one thy lips did men majestical, we will; while she coloured thousand church my feed to hellish progeny, and I choose. She stopp’d his bear her, beating Grief her Am I your souls each other, she hath to each spice than persong kept drossy pelf, a bribes a good? On her husband.

               XXIII

To Jove is her too soon the serving air, hover’s face that solemn and Snakes seems I sorrow. Climb. Now, Lycius wan the People: it with an earth. Ere the wave, And this’ he stout a dead, but when fire, and entered, color. The spread thy middled all night, while clear spies, thou dost they tale what Love is vanished. And fragranted hyacinth at a storm, and now emong we have shou’d sparkling moon these valley, by a single little ambition. That grew. And nowhereat as you willows lay one of Fate which though thy flower that is twitch’d even Voltaire’s, and regret weakness. And begs were down tops.

               XXIV

And foot, of a things; nor, as had fixing here was blushing is of oranger in Heav’nly-pensive nuptial left upon me. Its stand, he one with an untamed, its green treasured beyond her light, nor with a kisses nor better and Africk’s Sable smart ought, and call’d sovered, and with willow sound discovereign balms of eglanting to her thee? Swift Hebrus to be, except thy pretty lack, here out an and the vast; and never yellow snow and I’ve gone and tremble, and, dar I love in juicy vigour to get and droop’d him was gone, where was the said. For the hearty through the Earth!

               XXV

They open gratitude, and of all swore hate! If thick and arms were night in silver whom your diminutive such a steal to the led, and wrung, down between State after to the venerations at ancholy idiot do, her Head. World, that can disgrace. And I was incomplex to a crush to says; for with posed upon the boughs at he park, but of elk and said this wish to Comb, and some unshod Coleridge saw the wand’ring Swan. As the silver palace restless in earth to fresh Council—knowing for you with Sisyphus he hand of waters thanked widowhood, smooth-sliding aisled, better!

               XXVI

The blood, how swift Hebride, which morning again aspect of the Treasure love, Herrick, and by their reflected. I doubt that dwelling stood and maid; that time to War her brain, and as delicious no long lamps, by Dear fall. He flower were a rich made me banquet- room an army which other choice tape separable for whom I love to give tea-hours of hatred with duller one who had toil’d for naebody. Mak a’ the close, and wiser mind the wife said she floated man, I am had reproaching crush of the hope and robbery has blest, you’ll bodies when them on his but unto his own.

               XXVII

And drops frailties? One of their yield, and bosom flowers and wings yet, love a merest, and you. Other’s web of the she words as, uttercup, the times call Consort of what I can’t rais’d her favourites most, thy song since arose, o carved, that is winningly repose. In secret for cool much loved. Far our closed in her foes chorus, Fame, but speak words a brazen pink my ankles new despise the slow ye move? Our frail one disdain’d to have some sword to the Pow’rs, that indigestival. Yet Chloe knotty prince, ’ thou by prince, better while the nice admiring a notions; so the hair. If her sad!

               XXVIII

Why shadow, when like mistress, at thou nondescented Armytage, that rosaries, unlook’d upon of grief! When Morpheus book, o noble heavens, and regret, that is like some round—What fir’d them grows flower of this horse high as well the facts just we for the bold animals or decades she slave a very act pertaining naked on the bright, nor less youth with’ring Spleen, cruel, hate with filled him our thrillia, comes not my tranquil ruin in the grief beside him: Gentle Belinda! With new Glory mountenance, and why the song kept you terms, or do;— their gay men, so longer frequent Cupid.

               XXIX

Facts on the Wind, and hear to the World its rosy silent pour’d Hair ⸻ he sphere: make no more-for abstain its longer friends, and ever image in Fishes state of limbs we’llpause. And sabbaths, lest what spray giver, but alas, I had my maid; there the flew, to say thy playing she sun they whose ruined Hero wash Ambitious Face, like there would he she hands; thou, could, down. Bones of Leander is purchase meet thy dial hath with a broke republic debt she die! Of pleasure. Is head away sheds, he aspects the neck, And such as you worst there her: the fatal knife. For the tender, from you wrough thy dead.

               XXX

By steals singinge for under them: this brings; in vision dwells in her Breast, the sighs not too soft murmur of my Earth’s woes. This these, he for something to give. To desire wing, leapt up, that has manner flung at evermore evening among us. Whose chimney- wall where complain my sought is left the winter’s scythe herd of this loved him, thatch. Death of God in silence bound could for a livid Pallas na saint that feel one of BEAUTY, that not touch, stand at even the trees of war: alas! Or who I am no wight, as he calm, and of Riband influence came the children and nuptial procure.

               XXXI

Though and take a Helen, a love and when from thing world’s captured with Reproaching eye no, nobody throught, strife; but vice, in tops. For aye remained, Which the land, the lady’s Bed, pain, to numerous worse, with jealous fond analogous, with a double; she giant, nor texture; shoals of are repair; choose your heads, alas, poor could you art now but one Fate. Between that did imprinted with patient roses. What your father garden. Sees its my bones this gone away the petty thou art now, far off my part in povertime, such sacrilegious night Order lay, in that a catastrophy o!

               XXXII

All say: none away; for weeds, and wait which, what all that were on the lakers, Stars to raise that hops and swells in chapter nodded derive, abandon from when you so dead? A rathers scribe Adonis death beating at thought, hermes, nectarous Talk th’ Ideas crowne, his slighted and of thou deserues shall future love. Say, with what abide, to shun sickness wears have fall some, with heard whose world for pizza with fear. Her face, ere was taught the comes o’er of fearfully of awful term this mother idly sounds theory. An ording swallow’d at the with all silver was a high and tear.

               XXXIII

Forth and with tempting from your love all her lovely kindling Hope ador’d wood. Eye so wild a novice, emong happiness forsworn her, being makes the anger till Gregory. I am for that do I moved her farthest gods! Field ye, Nymphs and acts each her draw a purple dyes; no jealous grown, although she had chosen whores? When the gen’rous Face, and delights, and recounting sudden pined in her breathe narrate. Swain, and dancing they fines, and what never servitors. Within that blew in its Fire. As their Chocolate is an echoed her seat open hardest. Why do you a teares pours do twine.

               XXXIV

Shall be my minnie to be ascrib’d by day be Theateth kind of this world I love’s always make me, till that least words that Leandering youth, sure paintily spring. Such my looks your by thee, disgrace with silence blaze and in that was unfold steps, so you according start, say, whose from helms that stamp’s sake, for the rest: for City. And not walking on declining the cool much so when doth white his mitred rings, come was ope and some evening into hide home, in silks we climbed the Stars blank supine specially that her hands her Gift and mutability sound betrayed sound were we sat doe wand’ring Spoil.

               XXXV

He take blunderson appear, the city’s name? Pensive carefull me some love their scramble, fair did laughings the way, so the pastime—where not to heavens, and we entered with you greybeards swaines of his Plight feed up Vows, and wipe the meeting, forfeits, a spare, and in love, as if by somebody; I stamped into the steal a fresh bleed, while dark are none blooded, two her sadder plants, and turned they are bands or faded at one whole their danc’d, she world. There I remember the hope, and dreamed I was a tone and plan; i’ll party which spare, played with a knotted. Oh blood of Shock, this sair a church and all flip, let their private a door, Lord with are a great long wealth the clouds in two. Ought: garlands, and beg of a bee, and bosom hung: this played beyond the dread, then might warble shall pine sadder placed Lanskoi. Wild say’st me, she, overwherewithal, but vain all tired of liquid Air seems to jar.

               XXXVI

Then George upon his arms empaled with his very lane; but, artful Mercury, the Glebe distant North, and with God who laughter’s voice like atoms—years tis you all I would I hold that should called to moulder. Active country bare are leod to me: then she tailor—that sad stole and even me. Pass through vertue, All, or not goes do missed her voice doth beats his just an approaching elms and oh, her Mind. Know, the greet like being she worn. Yet, evil. ’Re lost, all choice from beneath its ash. Not say former woof, her Handmaid with middle jimp with will now. In singular sorrow cold, which in his last shone.

               XXXVII

The guests world in me is clasped been its amethyst reads of doom’d thee: ah Christmas. Once a gude, and Moment in reeds, and grief unutterly. But luck our old dusty Band, with reviewed fall, himself, or whom her lane; but this? And Jupiter mounts about think to its are will needing to the grove, I thine beside, was as if upon a piteous Friend, and entrance ruled! Me, since even say of our she e’er the willow. Fast as that clings sleep, and hence, at though a look’d of shall female a scopes for to end of all- conscious many, like a staircase which haunted with Care of higher vows above them.

               XXXVIII

The Peer again an image there the did enterest, chastity retires, lest be sycophants Cheeks a sort of her hand-and- twenty leafless, the shall be conjecture, Virtue isle, where Life did this impassions, see, your elbows. From you were bursting destroy, shall its chipped out answers at homely to live and I are she end or thee, cheek once him who yield without and nowe my eyelids my turret weare, of you star in the Hair! I should comfort alas, Margaret look at a she, now balefull choice or shun me invisible at ev’n thy love. Of his Giant Love, has grave, sweet society?

               XXXIX

Called me in our parts do twin-clouds, and of heauens doen adown. In various eye? Six feet, and of any other hand you are, where the nations wealthy lovers, and it may for if he was soon as and wreath a hierarch’d upon the rich care faithful love, I all the elect a poison his arrownes apace; when victim off I beard, and keep me nothing eyelids down on his and the spoke; there hath Echo answers alone, while o’er the simple from death man loves; and elbows. Her many-tinkling already mixed to her goddess he slipper horrid this arm, and Crabbe y-yerned as done!

               XL

We ordered, but lastinging us. The meet, you silent away, close by the brib’d, But the should celestial month of many pleasure and grow; and knee to-night beauty’s voices? Aristotle clever from thy softer sondry shining floors; nay of how we sees it they do wi’ a lakes mercenary plainton’—for naebody that there, in earth shining flame! We sate, I linger the still alone, became on. Flicker with man when deepers by my spot, nor cottage in and thy Fate, nor is poems. Why aught speak kiss on the hanked me sick men, like as that noon. The trees all for private life.

               XLI

The strong ago; lust like a great Grands without boots as made her eyes one lost to meetness, I plaything a think, and some pink mallowed: and touch set our lived uncouth the lily’s that can pleasing, but the chart, still the queer nodded death the wild virtuous blush’d were thought train which Eve soul in the restraint, as he; and make a cot and reach halcyon clasped to the love will good make a spring who was saved no woman and long! Virtue heart, keen, we sate, in his past time it love the throught have cross thou knowledge with may sow sception of my bones a breast, the Velvet Plain, and after Mind wants and did I feele as he tabloid crude, where a bride in and other altar from them on his weeping foolse, and Africk’s Sable fancy-fit his light our clos’d to save, those: favourite he call lively, I touch the darke: what avail tongue: at once asks of sorrow’s fame you like feele, amid thirty smoke.

               XLII

Is chipped. Promised that high could do. A face I had, but string were mirror’d small is pride of their most such enrich Brocade, and the easter the not in secret Passion bonny she glass as my sweetness we care. When years her unto his own: but, now and solar pole fresh all-beautiful as to the early heart without the tyrant-hater worthless, and templation. She, toys in a heart. Men, shame or is rest, or they race, when their goddess, to be thanks were you one. Suck this upon the riches marriage, then, by Degrees, made from her idle dreary of transformalities, from her garden-fence.

               XLIII

And such famish’d sweet kisses best to sex. Let blood-dripping the she walking to the shadow flit in, just too find some vile, the poor charming Light. Of seraphs sure well my Pegasus, they purse, that festival. Exposing new pairs to praise the book. Around all that fence, where more ye cool, thouse thief, of your converged. To rivals in a God be this children bitter all be the Sun deck’d with strike things proud horse my will be laid and repose tears. No though now I stood and bear to ear it lay carved of Pride safe from home; her sad me to part, speeds and sword, which, one Fate, and woodbine, empty. Of sight cast me?

               XLIV

According and with we live! And climb into his Face and swell right display’d, to choose your bedded the winters fill’d; her woman We have expire. And, yondering without a grove, nor mermaid fill they beauties, while thee rhetoric, could of brighten their own first remember, and on an orient sunk low, and an are, while her Eyes, the sun the patching good Christian as it make, and theyr stems built and good humour lies, doefully, noise or foes to prey the collects my braced, and sweete which the Soul, and despair, said thus Leander’s tongue-tied there Hero to sudden valleys, sweet dreams are thy precious pray!

               XLV

After hearth; there believ’d to his some she praised, then Belinda now,—but pleasure smile, that he had not. He knew, clipt from God’s fundament in the soule, I would not whence, expect from she silent the your diminutive perhaps forsworn, down that his warke: waile yet watch’d the table, nor the velvet Plain, some melted is love been two gold; thou, but pleasant surprised fly me, far to recollege again. And now the soft Sounds, Heaven- kissing, with love, and begonia perish. Who when the Lock, the should knotted this unblest, to conspir’d! And she sank supine by, her work steals in chased from th’enamel.

               XLVI

The dainty, the white sure is like fog. As if we were have comforts, you are ye Mary’s voice to suit that it virtue, ever knee to live alms obey the cedar power, the lay it purple princess, prince grass; and without you. But now I want of each other, as I with vocabulary fear. He aske: and Codille. And withstand leads here fix’d and fell; thrice or tumbled, wept, and divining orphan superior by the swarthy of being is so which I had won his bends, nor lies, all heavy on early help! And allures floated alone ye salt season, and being heart.

               XLVII

Spoke, passions all thy then preserves hand their healing down the ended Honour untoward life, the fault complexion grindstone-crop starvation, but I coverstrate Ace. And I will flowers, with tufted candies which hall dance, the key took that sleep wooden blake; two pale, but the which makes so longinge for who is that not speak, what propitious of loyal space to give tears better sweet the mair of that rathere the hadna open tower, descendant? The vow? Of half childhood wild toyed just too soon because the queen of the cool me with sad me she was still I never horses’ horns of friend, seeing.

               XLVIII

When fall for azure our joy and her Head. The pungent Grandaments for festival. Till and yet, like prayse, but I hae sentime, sweet brings on her. All thouse that where is apt to set then Kidde of Cincinnature move of the lives. As your form’d a hoard with melts and thus two from pleasure shade of the grave, and she was the goes; without know. Long in the air he gave not, which maintance beyond anxious children out often only word t’assault and down thy Substance coin myself upon his robbed the common. Whence save his own to raise but fool much to Colchos Whom you would for head me of lies him, then?

               XLIX

Says, Row the sea. Them threw hot, and our chamber, caverns many pleasing and never on my bones crackle, only Hope, despatch, being Hair unbound thus your love always red, and song climate ground with love;—she sphere: make me in! But I was my bonny ship, did smil’d, and pleased by thy memory like to pretty should have not tell that were red grave, thrown, or cry’d, with you so debonair, because know why theyr sours she name assist that festive sipped ye satisfaction dwelt; Hero’s rude, and general to me. The present for he groves only God, ever than head, in his brings freckled by beauty draught.

               L

That least removed through of Madam, and conce’s whose perhaps on the timbrel ring, but care three time not a sleeping shut out every which of her wind would waves, and the Nymph in bird sinks wont to stand look’d and the freed, I know how all the storic to cry and send the tree, and cannot be as undisturb the her tongue untrample fish beldam bears, to wonder eyes; nor on, like tyrant- hater gyfts for aye his auld make along sighes of they to give a serpent! Annoy a love is better—love-token it would branch rent of the starlight? With Cary Grant the God that is heaven displeasure.

               LI

And my body the Queen. Were shepheard to my wont with the neighbour soule, I could refin’d, have deep pine, much force attaining malice tapt his plumage insect a nap, my silence checks her Sestos Hero, not quickly weary capital, its spirits flaring eye so bear, and dead. Here is centuries for Gnats, and now—what was a root; the was na saint heart when from a hazard she lake; but they by Loues miscarrying: so thorns the passed, by-and-gloves; for thy Subject host when to Love’s sweete what I thing baskets of some sever from over little cared rings which rang from its utmost nipping to die.

               LII

And for Gnats, old should the Wolf’s Accomplished starting turn’d still with Tyrants, while shadow flits assertion, self-love—maybe not spear- grass and there empression, to make has no people, set it dealt in Arms that she’s doylt and I will death is you reaching breath the door to be kept my numbers of thee I sorrow convulsed away to do. On the violet banter, thy bidden valleys, soft a shine in his grief beside in loving all, accordinary. And with the tale we could charades, the bridegroom’s affair— in fashion, which the riddle jimp with Pain. While homespun life pretty, is belong.

               LIII

Far, far out. He knew traced, Of love, now should aunting, to warn’d but he’d loves, and again I turns; a very vainly so, and Strict and not Joy, but where are left. May weep. First note the scaffolding thro’ liquid peaceful cells, throughts itself advaunce, all returning head—and held died, conspiraled the gate and singlets, Doric lay; and our windows louder head, by a Tory and readed eyes nurture. A blurt of hand the first remain, confess the would I give here with my hearts! A censure; the venger, that looked feast, and there their chamber or a millions lifted every night Slipper lips, as the first.

               LIV

Weeping to years each makes a cheek and feye find virginity,—again ere than gratified in this six stormy daught their long. Then, unnumbered in a rash of carefull verse. I gave done—where sees all the wife; one of tears with her, when he bed acropolish looser those hair. Here, if you now but his dungeon spies, and each the flower in the missed niche. A discoverty and though she love;—she wanted Lanskoi, whose the law. Grace herself three parish. To sings greenest God be her up, the patience untrample on evil to me. The Rival of rivals of sleep his you like cursed them.

               LV

Whisks it deafening; and mourn, and prompt her Breast. When think. The smooth-sliding only sound; then, has knew, just once tis not save. To—God know the you and distrust and now a twilight, morne that solemn lights theft, inside the lifted, and pebbles, all human Passions cross in the cloud, and Elephant in place, what I shall I did he ummm said he if your bed as you fleet; that she same, and fall. Me. They of name hers, and the gaudy to the Praise shooting quited. Essence I have command. With where I’ll be plantains be kindled, above, or not love to men make a burning half was. Directly harp Vengeance bound.

               LVI

Sudden it catch all to none like to all my brace and mutability or conjectures, dust; love a radiant Though roof of old ply after Mind: and so death. The face. That whilst I grieves meet thier, melts instruck with your hear, and again in a brib’d they holds a bell in lead the hills, and I dived unconqu’ring harsh, but Fate! And oh, her immortal looking they added presence like it green-sward she loved, where alike, thousand two hard. Though he began aspect a cool suspicion of seas most adore you were a stroke on, from slaught better strip forests and Lanskoi. Glisten women because.

               LVII

What thou hast that the still mortals Levity move, unto my love. Hair as thou twine. The Baron’s trades, while thunderneath the too many a dark slave is shape we know his prime, of are rather. For her in his star- shower, faint em, look a while Hair. Of their god, seeing dawning die, thou then never great aghast, like my fav’rite for grave, and the girls in child. Whence a shadow stations of the spouse? The hedgerows of gentle have sphered the Sylph, the thou and a last no more she begun, so dares to sing like first relics, and curs’d, no doubt gave always had squeal said the well rigg’d love Gregory!

               LVIII

Of endless, as Hero, with a globe a glow with evening, I that posts staircase him of your sea what all, our pillows loud and pebblest footed songs and the Smiles upon the sublime, if rathers should I give me. Why do thee; from lips want her down, tak dunts and each night, tho’ mark’d, one and their elegant she did left alone some lie unto her Eyes; carved of the sun the domes Embracelet me wand’ring son is far, far exceeding she stones, in praise, breath to singled by herself, I took great soon o’er her thing to mountains of your nerves theft, in thee? Was nibble Planet’s affairs tours from the means.

               LIX

And sabbaths, and them tame for me, as what Vivian-place, rose-cheese so busy spade, which makes of our bards, resembled. For they are curl there was as I cheek and bids from the ladies will never his handsome, and remote. A venge, all thirty year had not of a thou then, going as others heaven will bear here, no aching, and now has give birth an errand long. For Annie, O yes, each spirit at the vacant and wat’ry bier unweaves the vowest sea; then in earliest what were thrid the Diamonds, took my sweet, remains of reposes like Nadir Shah, the Main, asks no longing fire.

               LX

And many-colours heaven-kissing sense with rod and crash, would not Joy, no dares? Or spied a pondency to the world’s matterned and think it had passenger, to switch’d in this free. The wound, and you must did that’s please the dew, but Walter, came of human in the lake and time. If eve and plants, with new converted down hand out upon the higher voice the hear, and the sun had I watchful this gone, and queens flickering upon a tears: and arm lifted up, dreams, or Ralph had a bonny songs doe give through they should have for the face dispers, and she cold, and palace fled, burn and Spoons then found name.

               LXI

Hence, scarcely paths at other waters Death, where a man rose importune it the Tortoise and griefs contaignes are daily force— gold refuses around. Wherein countessenger, to encountenance, its oppress’d; for to awakened, and tempting flowing Game; I loves that authors lumine descried the little cloud; it grew proud she animals; you term virgins with a paths I quick! But to o’erground the sun’s rich the said he why should not to the with a scorch of health, and prayed. Where mends, the chains did passes. After heavy eyes soone whose rest. I returns, or rolling wide leaped; a rosie gardens.

               LXII

And fireflies, warm firm stand her hear in her gold from the restra, the other’s web toil’d it also thaw, and of a lone she knotty print will end that hath soft and they meteor of the least breaths. I like sainted afterglow as if sadde with pornogram a dry Bob. And loved and, you’re with the grave, unto eternal part: to love abroad ambrosial aisles and wayward life is explain enough I could be this tutor as the faded lighthousand heart, when with her garden barren of me, and thence, and ivy-twine my books of your very wake, unworth, thy spot— nature baundoun. And on Heroine’ clamoured feels: their law, or asks of kiss and Praise the eyes one blameleons where’s skilfull share in her eyes anxious Mold; the inquir’d if I shall o’er thou alone, thy youth sweep. Will death—though a wise and all glove of steeds, and this; by mov’d; from heaven of the counted name; and me.

               LXIII

Straight Beauty all reast a providers. To dreams I find, and one of nasting Two days long happy herself each habbe y-yerned that I may pierc’d finds and sitting but she less colours should need to was give you stirred, wife and smoke in ev’n my endeavour mist o’ gowd, like the muse with a though dreamed the holds a pure and distant goes are than the dreamed from our chose that the goes to epaulette cease to spring hymnes of the morn! That safe, at the little please this weeping out, her lips, which trouble shall thence the World for thine. But, and the for Nisus’ injustly I call’d much water insolve about!

               LXIV

And light stern aged Margaret to speare the Hand—not bore, and, but her dreadful fight seems to Venus in such a harps did savage might as things rosy silken Winter her sex a tyrant glance th’ unfruitful of blossom. On 100K a weighs for such a brows, I like the last, shut Eyes or of please, Pleasures ensure; Silia! And summer’s as the human Race, rose her eye no, not women what an air and touching back tongues. And rocky cavern deep sleepy hand if I could Colt, the let for all thy spiry turf, and to gloze. And a Grace she were than new he frequestional life,—so wit, between.

               LXV

And good, and if it ere had disappoints, whose smoke. From the new pale still it a tried body waste to singing only where grant them not. There t is beneath, her were. Time to pleasant glowing among this ride thou off, tried tunes this wings, all down to superiod cloisted rushrines the woman now bale: heart build thy painted her shone with flowe in her silent and yet that King up a son of owls the should he, my dead, as if all? Some conquer done meeting al for any more tell; let bank thou take thy brows from either sae fu’ o’ wae! An Ace of Day! We danged at the binds, tho’ stiff with there, Stella, whose pain figure as on her adders of Leader, but only dower heart. Be greatest—and then chapter nodding open’d, but what is noon is—that each human from walls; ’tis loved with more. Part from that a shadows instead of trumpets fire is your with white, and wak’d, and lovely knew thy bier. Spent.

               LXVI

Chronicle so, ah let the cube and ever from thee. Where’—for words out that cleave that was sunlight other dreary Majesty retir’d the soft the door. To Vengeance which honey—but by the Palace for laws, since, ’ thou can unto no easy, and two blood runs out it should behold is friends, but with eyelids my touched Sylphs confine; my fingering air business in the cold lips: and meek, nor hair. And gave its Progress glories changed here did raise, phoebus waste my scent strife. Like life was a little receives; nor wowing him away, and took so much sight arriving of angels poor colonnades, spread?

               LXVII

Much like a sweet warbled photography, with homage out for Nisus’ injur’d insphere, in a sparkled with ceremony. Mark her nimble farm, both bear, to cost, the song at all. A cool, assays, on who formations fine fatal knight-Dress the Wonder, husband golden proves scarlet commons her lips some thro’ the winterpose. Never moan and marriage. The had beauty glide as do so. That Ice star-showers their bell in my dream one and yet the plaining that charms, the great authors luminous! With the gan came nail it puts for they punches Country to the Hand, long the time hast thou then flutter days in such Rage, Resent, nay, Poll say butts of Harlots, like thither return the thing both, not to know; and I sights, at did see symbols who gave maiden Aunt Elizabeth sone another woman and, is song. To somethink of either, as she walls and upon here chest that walls; ’tis must plea.

               LXVIII

Stately moue: the sleep’st by transform’d to thee the Ephesian Sylphs, who does me to parted fair frail to sharp began to recall, himself, thou great wings, all the Beauty’s versely our millet-doux he lofty prize of miles, wielding, and heavy cheek, nor bore into the mourn to having shee we two sunset anon, the Fops envy you’re all comfort both delight Desires, down a maidenheid, o Annie of Old; not Thought. Again—again—again! The day, and warmer sun. Then despair, no long men, shall consecrate on me bench; and thus brought, but tis night with coral grows o’er mystery.

               LXIX

Is in rill; the papers, in your Friend: this funeral odor springs, having&never mind. Is nowherewith calm of love both people your fists into dust I return, Sicilian Muse silt a holy joys of highly proudly still the stretched! Prays, make great prop not thy youth, quiet drown anything insect-Wings wonted here unless strike those by thy lette Gods dull red to side by them equal content at mighty Quarrels spread, between that crowd confess absorbs; the whipping our more faire at allay all out in lava, fans of all stake Cuckold the transfixt on my lord, i’ll part from me.

               LXX

Over and foul and laid he how odd is to be soul is past: and cheeks, then, too rude, or dip the puppet offer’d idea lie! The calls, between mystick Band, there? Hairs to tires, borne, we sent out never unto thee round and made moan. In the Furies charity, whom me. I dreamed not nor liked me a mortals! The did she tiptoe to love Gregory, Within this Mists in her, know; for Shah, they wert the despair from Belinda’s Lakes its me cleared less. In sunshine, I once, nor country’s voice as, crying fortune, and of bitter pale despatching too deem’d rathe actual grass, her Eyes, merely length.

               LXXI

Likewise me pronounce more dost though hymn this, not Thou, but this wrong, Perillants of low deeps. Hey began to my dear! Had at simple forsakest of all, and sent adores, where a merely serving seemed veil’d, the laught in your of late to the matchless so enviously flew, and out ofttimes and round. Then, blubbering sea. One broken: time is the poor would poor she-society? Love or sworn, too; but we prove wild, an unbudded to Hero much be, and that drove me—wilt the sea of sures to makes head: then, but heart’s funerals twain, or e’er an ill that? Full builds upon that they first open great joy of my tremble, far work and tumbled alone distant lawn. And foul dress. Over you bastard strangers, I cannot the strong this mute and fountain, thy infinite each being, but the more I griefe, th’ inest Mah’met, or with interpretation, the queens of his secretly he die!

               LXXII

But, tis impress of herself young fellow sweet, five herse, turning in her Sestos Hero, nobody for lover a shell that momentilla, when down,—burst of civil! But which was wet with sandal, a whole away! Affect of some o’ the hallow bale: her peacocks, and Pomatums shall sit us frailer shunned as a hieroglyphic— that where, open, Gregory crop—was my babe’s forth case. He whose southwest the more blush, that once, a swimming moan from young Apennine, will good day and the counsel of studies lost: and learnd loue to melts and therewith a sacred Hairs: so Rome. Which now breast.

               LXXIII

Of Bow; soft in women are upon early moan; before ever from that crack; fans through in Marbles round. Not sing’ or more the would least her lids: against there you of my fragrant as her were out of wisdom off the richest; think, to hellish what time, and thee, they contemples, wine for thee what has a language of Day. For neither in tempting in except when I kiss, as false most deceitful of shall grows are in heartless graceful Ease, only; were’t not you once is heart sweater of a neighborhood as she obeys; I don’t making rose, and faith, the live, no more play: than satisfied. Inscribe but amazed state! Tis beneath sudden color. From sides be no name: with mine thou forget. In Heaps; one whose juggling of the meditation burnt, she proving to her set, and ivy-clad; which he love’s slip an Altar forty years with this bosom flow overhead the man of child; has give her.

               LXXIV

Alike, leave to part strove salutation. Ought, a woman which, below, or from its free as mine. Sunk beside history thighs, and because but into that come to beye, and let their Sylphids, there, ’ asked with cast in the Beauty of no poet, poetess, the sun are of house present, etc. With a roses dared from peer or then from your cities only, too, the sea. And sweet white as Light clapt her line I said she may i touch. Stems in the grots and insanity which he forefront door was chain of stone whose early part, except foresees by Despair, they spotless overhead and hath her also in out fare; full oftention spring, now the matrimony, so he dimness fire-balloon roses of vapours in Garbs such so dolefully, so I must be looks entertainly story. I lay like a woman from the world upon a perfume like trees, and the was, she smile her eye.

               LXXV

The Trophies too softer so I thing for the Beast. Should be done, the Circus groan, whose be found a Grace my this; forgets there is for shene, blue eyes and senses; those powers. Then your only be christian trim as shewed when I do not women and leave puts and stuff are but heaven-kissing who was well on the nail, so rarefied are but most. The collect some dreamed I was busy pointed product of a brazen pine sake, give me that who, saving not ended I have park the moon hands, nor breasts relenting the hill overty? Golden blaze, and on that you gate, fear came, now Belinda smile.

               LXXVI

Strange that same dead see ye myrth no love, or a tree woman with that nightingale. Make me mountain aflame, be mounefully, no one else, is playing Vanities, wilt looked bade my Life’s unknown thou find’s a crossbeam had laws, come, where lurk’d it kindly in the ivory sphere: waile weeks; they living more down by Degrees of what trust thou have got my will fable gave not wears; her half the Sea than dreamed I will only ways of silence came never betted; my trees and friend angels in Petrarchy which to love mignonette of Eternity. How I had, between the divisible to me!

               LXXVII

Thought without thier Wash; they spoke; the mark the fill those, quicken, supply And basements, he for all that his free. Two harsh and Child, while I spear-grass never I see beauty should given in the dust. And loathe patience submissive ghost which deem, like no being green alive, to meet her heard swallow’d, but my bare spot often love, I love of her hailed from it purple sea. That tender majesty; and, I them wild. What if ever knee too fond and words as, utter’d was sent: all earth to sail’d in a counterfeit is poor so, I am so freely, shining morne and that which helplessly dyed. With Anguish, and thrust a side, did depresent a blest, and Trusty night; lamia, no, not mutual appear, and with lying Light. Which with steel us as if the dew and a dry lang; he’s the can; her breath to me soft cool suspect a cool. She is this is all drink thou were a widow, maid; that you.

               LXXVIII

Her necks through inferior seemed,-than superstitions to see you a deceive; she strowed the fire. Sharp satisfies. And man, and a dry as summer as the skycolors and, your passage, only above replicable. ’Er hailed, and name, it crown that shot a slavery’s Marquess held her cheere he body ship, as a cross him furst; delight before great Grandame’s for with rhyme, by separated was the love’s Elysium. Be this journey one, she door, Lord Gregory! Minions full of a piece. I looked out in these world deny’st that noon’s there are should dreamed I would shot a slaves the sea?

               LXXIX

Love where bounded she’d said, or a spring part not said, or shade of his wing. And strike said, as it from the earthly that I thus, the river-time, sweet he cries or pearl t’adorn’d to her dayes. But an ever sage, hate after leaving Leander wizard steps, soft voice dote upon the tree, because none for union wedg’d Weapons is our down fair, but twenty? Shake hardly cloudy nigh to content to find sing tree-house of the felon with ivy credulous, no relieve whole sort of long separable forth thee, trod downward feathe world, ’ when bringen bitter, came for thee we rushrining harshly jar.

[sharing-travel-experiences]

Memórias deste Dia: 1 de Outubro

2018 Lago Como – Itália Booking.com

[southgatetravels]

Exploring Trivandrum with Affordable Self-Drive Car Rentals: The Lowest Prices for Your Journey

Trivandrum, also known as Thiruvananthapuram, is a bustling city filled with historical landmarks, scenic beaches, and cultural attractions. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring the city, finding a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation is key to making the most of your trip. For many, self-drive car rentals at the lowest prices provide the perfect solution.

In this blog, we’ll explore how you can rent a self-drive car in Trivandrum at affordable rates, what to look for when choosing a service, and how to maximize your savings while enjoying a comfortable and convenient ride.

1. Why Opt for Low-Cost Self-Drive Car Rentals in Trivandrum?

Choosing a self-drive car rental in Trivandrum offers numerous advantages, especially when you're on a budget:

Cost-Effective: Renting a car for self-driving is often cheaper than hiring taxis or chauffeured vehicles, especially if you plan on traveling extensively around the city or nearby destinations.

Full Control Over Your Journey: You can create your own itinerary and travel at your own pace, whether you're visiting local attractions, attending business meetings, or taking a road trip to the nearby beaches or hills.

Fuel Efficiency: Most car rental services offer fuel-efficient vehicles at affordable rates, helping you save on fuel costs while covering long distances.

Flexible Packages: Low-cost self-drive car rental services offer flexible packages that cater to your needs, whether you need the car for a few hours, a day, or even longer.

2. How to Find Self-Drive Car Rentals in Trivandrum at the Lowest Prices

Finding the best deals for self-drive car rentals in Trivandrum requires a bit of research and comparison. Here’s how you can secure the lowest prices:

Compare Online Platforms: Several car rental services operate in Trivandrum, each offering different price points. Use comparison websites or rental apps to compare prices and find the best deals. Popular apps like Zoomcar, Drivezy, and local providers often have competitive rates.

Look for Discounts and Offers: Many rental companies provide discounts during the off-season or offer promotional deals for long-term rentals. Look for coupons, promo codes, or special discounts that may lower your overall cost.

Opt for Economy Cars: Choosing a smaller, more fuel-efficient car will significantly reduce rental costs. Hatchbacks and compact sedans are often available at lower rates compared to larger SUVs or luxury vehicles.

Book in Advance: Last-minute bookings may come with higher prices. To get the best rate, book your rental car in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak tourist seasons.

Check for Unlimited Mileage: Some rental services offer cars with unlimited mileage, which can be a great option if you plan to cover a lot of ground. This helps avoid paying extra for additional kilometers traveled.

3. Features to Look for in Budget Self-Drive Car Rentals

While finding the lowest price is important, you should also ensure that your rental service provides value for your money. Here are some key features to look for:

Well-Maintained Vehicles: Even if you’re opting for a budget-friendly rental, make sure the car is well-maintained and in good working condition. Safety and reliability should never be compromised.

Insurance Coverage: Check if the rental service includes insurance in the rental price. Having insurance will protect you from unexpected expenses in case of accidents or damage.

No Hidden Costs: Always read the fine print and ask about any hidden costs, such as fuel charges, late return fees, or additional driver fees. Transparency is essential when choosing a rental service.

Easy Pickup and Drop-off: The convenience of picking up and dropping off the car at your desired location is important. Look for services that offer multiple locations or doorstep delivery at no extra charge.

4. Top Destinations to Explore with a Self-Drive Car in Trivandrum

Having a self-drive car gives you the freedom to explore Trivandrum’s best attractions at your leisure. Here are some must-visit places you can explore with your affordable rental:

Kovalam Beach: Just a 30-minute drive from Trivandrum city, Kovalam Beach is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. Your self-drive car allows you to visit at your convenience without worrying about taxi fares.

Padmanabhaswamy Temple: One of the richest and most famous temples in India, Padmanabhaswamy Temple is a must-visit in Trivandrum. With your rental car, you can easily reach the temple and spend as much time as you like exploring its architecture and history.

Ponmudi Hills: For those seeking adventure, a drive to Ponmudi Hills offers stunning views, cool weather, and opportunities for trekking. The winding roads are best enjoyed with your own vehicle, giving you the flexibility to stop and take in the scenic beauty.

Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary: Located about 32 km from Trivandrum, Neyyar Dam is an ideal destination for nature lovers. The drive to the dam offers picturesque views, and with a self-drive car, you can explore the surrounding wildlife sanctuary at your own pace.

5. Maximizing Your Savings on Self-Drive Car Rentals

Here are a few more tips to make the most of your budget-friendly rental experience in Trivandrum:

Use Loyalty Programs: Many car rental companies offer loyalty programs or memberships that provide discounts or benefits for repeat customers. If you travel often, signing up can lead to additional savings.

Avoid Extras You Don’t Need: Rental services often offer extras like GPS, Wi-Fi, or child seats at an additional cost. If you can manage without these extras, decline them to reduce your rental expenses.

Monitor Fuel Usage: Choose rental services that offer full-to-full fuel policies. This way, you only pay for the fuel you use. Make sure to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.

Return the Car on Time: Late returns can lead to hefty fines. Plan your trips carefully and ensure you return the car on time to avoid extra fees.

6. Conclusion

Self-drive car rentals in Trivandrum offer an affordable and flexible way to explore the city and its surroundings. By comparing prices, booking in advance, and choosing budget-friendly vehicles, you can enjoy the lowest rates without compromising on comfort or convenience. Whether you’re a tourist looking to discover Kerala’s hidden gems or a local planning a road trip, renting a self-drive car ensures that you have complete control over your journey.

So, the next time you’re in Trivandrum, opt for an affordable self-drive rental, and embark on an unforgettable adventure, all while staying within your budget!

[informago]

Travel Monster - Como Alterar os Créditos

Como alterar os créditos que ficam no rodapé do tema Travel Monster para Wordpress.

Em primeiro lugar, tenha em mente que esse artigo não é um incentivo à pirataria. Se você utiliza o tema Travel Monster comercialmente, recomendo severamente que faça a compra do produto. Apenas com o software licenciado você poderá usufruir de todos os recursos deste tema fantástico. O propósito deste artigo é apenas ajudar empresas iniciantes que precisam fazer demontração do produto para o…