#under his influence

[emjayewrites]

Under His Influence - LH (3/14)

SYNOPSIS: A couple of years after his last submissive, Lewis finally decides to look for another. His search brings him back to The Obsidian Lotus, where he encounters Nikki, a law student working as a cocktail waitress to make ends meet.

PAIRINGS: Billionaire/CEO!AU Lewis Hamilton x Nikita "Nikki" Gaines

A/N: This is a sneak peek of Chapter 3. The rest is posted on my Patreon. I’m also offering a 50% off your first month deal. The code is: C0C78.

The cool air inside the training room brushed against Nikki’s bare skin, raising goosebumps on her arms and pebbling her nipples. She stood in the center of the space, completely nude, her heart pounding with a mix of apprehension and anticipation. The room was quiet, save for the soft hum of a fan nearby and the distant murmur of activity elsewhere in The Obsidian Lotus.

Madam Elise circled her slowly, her sharp gaze assessing every inch of Nikki’s body. There was nothing overtly predatory about her movements, but the intensity of her scrutiny made Nikki hyper-aware of her own vulnerability.

"Breathe, Nikki," Madam Elise said softly, her voice soothing yet authoritative. "This is just the beginning. You’re doing well."

Nikki exhaled shakily, focusing on keeping her breathing steady. She had known this was coming. Madam Elise had explained that part of the initial training involved a physical assessment—getting comfortable with being exposed, inspected, and accepting the gaze of another without shame or self-consciousness. But knowing it in theory was different from experiencing it in practice.

Madam Elise stopped in front of her, tilting her head slightly as she observed Nikki’s body. "You have a beautiful figure," she remarked, her tone appreciative but professional. "Lush curves, soft in all the right places. You’ll find that many Doms appreciate that kind of fullness in a sub. It signifies abundance, comfort, sensuality."

Nikki swallowed, unsure how to respond. Compliments were usually easy to accept when she was fully clothed, but here, laid bare and scrutinized, they felt different—more intense, more personal.

Madam Elise stepped closer, her hand reaching out to lightly graze Nikki’s hip. "It’s important that you learn to embrace your body," she said. "Part of this training is understanding that your body is not just yours but something to be shared, displayed, and enjoyed—on your terms, of course. But you have to be comfortable in your skin before anyone else can be."

Nikki nodded, taking in her words. She’d always been confident enough about her curves, but there was a difference between wearing them proudly in public and standing nude in a room with an experienced Dominant appraising her every detail. It was a challenge, a test of both trust and self-acceptance.

After a few more moments of silent examination, Madam Elise took a step back and handed Nikki a soft robe to slip on. "You can relax for now. You’ve done well."

Nikki quickly slid into the robe, grateful for the warmth and slight sense of security it provided. Once she was settled, Madam Elise motioned for her to sit down on a cushioned bench in the corner of the room. The atmosphere shifted as they moved from the assessment to what Nikki knew would be a more personal conversation.

Madam Elise settled in across from her, crossing her legs elegantly. She held a clipboard in her lap, the pages filled with notes and a familiar form that Nikki remembered from when she first started working at the club. It was the intake questionnaire—an extensive survey that all employees filled out upon hiring. The questions ranged from basic interests to deeply personal sexual preferences and boundaries. At the time, it had seemed more like an exercise in understanding the club’s diverse environment than anything directly relevant to Nikki’s role. But now, its significance felt much more immediate.

"Let’s talk about what you circled," Madam Elise said, flipping to the relevant section. Her tone was gentle but direct, signaling that this was a space for honesty. "It’s normal to be curious or even uncertain when starting out. We’re here to explore those curiosities at your pace."

Nikki shifted slightly, feeling a flutter of nerves. She had circled a few things out of pure curiosity, some that intrigued her and others that made her nervous. Now, she was about to confront those interests head-on.

Madam Elise ran a finger down the list, pausing occasionally. "You indicated an interest in bondage, impact play, and power exchange dynamics. Those are all fairly common kinks for new subs to explore," she began, her voice matter-of-fact. "There’s a lot of range within each of those categories. Bondage, for example, can be anything from soft restraints to more complex rope work. We’ll start slow and see what you’re comfortable with."

Nikki nodded, feeling a little more at ease. "I’ve always wondered what it would feel like to be restrained," she admitted, her voice quiet but steady. "I like the idea of surrendering control, but I’m also nervous about it."

"Perfectly natural," Elise said with an encouraging smile. "The key is trust. We’ll start with simple exercises—guided meditations, blindfolds, and light restraints—so you can get used to the sensation. You’ll always have control over what’s happening, even when you’re the one being restrained."

She continued down the list, pausing at another point. "You also marked ‘curious’ next to humiliation play. That’s a more advanced dynamic and something we’d approach very cautiously. It’s not for everyone, and it can be emotionally intense. But it’s good that you’re being honest about your curiosity."

Nikki bit her lip, feeling a little embarrassed by that particular interest. "I’m not sure why I circled it," she confessed. "It’s one of those things that I don’t fully understand yet, but there’s a part of me that wonders what it would be like to be… challenged in that way."

Elise’s gaze softened with understanding. "Humiliation, when done consensually and with care, is about breaking down and rebuilding boundaries. It’s about trust, vulnerability, and often catharsis. But it’s not something you need to decide on right away. We’ll take things step by step, and you’ll have plenty of time to figure out what feels right for you."

Nikki exhaled slowly, appreciating the lack of pressure. This conversation was helping her see that she didn’t need to have all the answers right away. The whole point of training was to explore, discover, and grow—at her own pace.

"Remember," Elise added, leaning forward slightly, "this journey is about finding your authentic self within these dynamics. You’re here to learn, not just about what turns you on, but what empowers you, what makes you feel whole, and where your boundaries lie. The fact that you’re willing to explore is a strength, not a weakness."

Nikki smiled, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. I’m ready to learn, Madam Elise."

"Good," Elise replied, satisfaction evident in her tone. "Tonight, we’ll begin with a guided session that’ll introduce you to some of the dynamics you’ve expressed interest in."

Nikki left the training room with her robe still tightly wrapped around her, her mind buzzing with everything they had discussed. There was a lot to consider—her boundaries, her curiosities, her readiness for this new chapter.

Heading back to the changing rooms, she dressed in the new outfit for her training: a black lace bodysuit that clung to her curves and a matching garter belt. Around her wrist, she wore a delicate pink rose pendant, representing her status as a sub-in-training. Nikki adjusted the rose charm, reminding herself of the proper etiquette she’d need to follow from now on. If Lewis showed up tonight—and the thought of that alone sent a shiver through her—she would need to remember to address him as Master. Knowing that he had already expressed interest in her was both thrilling and terrifying. It was one thing to flirt with curiosity; it was another to know that a man as commanding and experienced as Master Lewis had already staked his claim on her.

Sub training could take up to three months, depending on how quickly each trainee adapted to the protocols, dynamics, and skills. Some subs completed their training early, while others took the full three months or even longer. Nikki wasn’t in a rush; she was here to learn, to grow, and to see where this path would take her. She resolved to take it one step at a time, trusting that she would know when she was ready.

"Nikki, you ready?" Stella’s voice pulled her from her thoughts. Nikki turned to see Stella waiting by the door, already dressed in her own outfit—a sleek ensemble of black leather and lace. Stella’s confidence was palpable, her movements fluid and sure. Nikki admired that in her, and tonight, she’d be shadowing her and another Madam as part of her training.

"I’m ready," Nikki said, taking a deep breath as she followed Stella out of the dressing room.

The training session began with a brief orientation led by Madam Elise and Stella. Along with Nikki, there were two other trainees—a petite brunette with wide eyes and a slender redhead who exuded quiet confidence. They were instructed to pay attention, observe, and absorb as much as they could from the experienced subs. Nikki took note of everything—the way they held themselves, their posture, the way they responded to commands with fluid grace.

Stella walked the group through a few exercises—basic positions, respectful language, and the importance of understanding the cues from both Doms and other subs. Madam Elise supervised, correcting them when needed but also offering praise when they got it right. Nikki found herself slipping into the rhythm of it quickly, realizing that a lot of it came down to focus, attention to detail, and trust.

As they moved into the main area of the club, Nikki felt the eyes of others on her—both patrons and staff. She noticed Marcus, the club’s manager, watching her closely. His eyes roved over her, lingering just long enough for her to sense that she was being evaluated.

When Marcus approached, his attention shifted to Stella. He leaned in, kissing her softly but possessively on the lips. "Meet me in the Pink Room in an hour," he instructed, his voice low and commanding.

"Yes, sir," Stella replied immediately, her voice laced with anticipation. Nikki could see the devotion in her eyes as she nodded profusely, eager to please.

After Marcus walked away, Nikki couldn’t help but ask, "What’s it like, being his sub?"

Stella’s expression softened into a knowing smile. "It’s intense, but it’s exactly what I need. Marcus is strict, but he’s also fair. He knows how to push me just enough without crossing any lines. There’s a sense of security in submitting to someone who knows how to handle you—someone who sees all of you, flaws and all, and still wants to take care of you."

Nikki absorbed Stella's words, imagining what it would feel like to be seen in that way. To have someone know her deepest desires and fears, and still choose to love and care for her. It was a foreign concept, but one she couldn't help but be drawn to.

"Does it ever scare you, though?" Nikki asked, unable to keep the curiosity out of her voice.

Stella's smile turned wistful. "Of course it does. But being with Marcus, it's the first time I've ever felt truly known and accepted. And that's worth any fear or uncertainty."

Nikki was fascinated by the depth of Stella’s commitment. It wasn’t just physical—it was emotional, too. That kind of connection, rooted in trust and surrender, felt almost mythical. Could she get there one day? Would she even want to?

Stella must have sensed her curiosity because she placed a reassuring hand on Nikki’s arm. "Don’t overthink it," she said gently. "Your journey will be your own. Some subs thrive in long-term, deeply bonded dynamics like the one I have with Marcus. Others prefer something more fluid or temporary. You’ll figure it out in time."

Madam Elise called for their attention, snapping Nikki out of her thoughts. The group followed her to a softly lit corner of the club, where a low platform had been set up for demonstration purposes. Nikki felt her pulse quicken as Madam Elise gestured for her to step forward.

"Tonight, we’ll start with light restraints," Elise explained, her voice calm and steady as always. "It’s important for you to become familiar with the sensation of being bound. Restraints, when used properly, can offer a sense of security and freedom simultaneously."

Nikki’s breath hitched, but she nodded, stepping onto the platform. The small crowd that had gathered—club regulars and a few curious observers—watched with quiet interest. Madam Elise moved with practiced ease, producing a set of crimson silk ties that looked soft to the touch.

"Hold out your wrists," Elise instructed. Nikki did as she was told, holding her arms out, palms up, feeling exposed but oddly exhilarated. Elise’s hands were gentle as she looped the ties around her wrists, her movements deliberate and precise. The silk was cool against Nikki’s skin, the sensation startling in its intimacy.

"How does that feel?" Elise asked, her voice low.

"Soft," Nikki murmured, flexing her fingers slightly. The ties held firm, snug but not uncomfortable.

"Good. Restraints should never feel painful unless that’s the intention and consent has been given. You are still in control, Nikki. If at any point you want to stop, you say the safe word. Understood?"

"Yes, Madam Elise."

Elise nodded approvingly. "Now, close your eyes and breathe. I want you to focus on how this feels—not just the ties, but the act of surrendering your hands. Trust me to guide you through this."

Nikki inhaled deeply and let her eyes flutter shut. Without her sight, her other senses sharpened. She felt the weight of the ties around her wrists, the faint whisper of air across her bare shoulders, and the subtle tremor in her own breath. For a moment, she let herself lean into the sensation, into the vulnerability, and into the knowledge that she wasn’t alone.

"Perfect," Elise’s voice came again, soft and encouraging. "You’re doing beautifully, Nikki."

When she opened her eyes, Nikki saw Elise’s calm, steady gaze and, beyond her, the quiet approval of the small audience. A flicker of pride blossomed in her chest. It wasn’t much—just silk ties and a moment of stillness—but it felt like a step forward. A step toward understanding herself.

Madam Elise untied her wrists carefully, brushing her hands over Nikki’s skin to soothe any lingering tension. "You handled that well," she said, smiling faintly. "How did it feel?"

"Surprisingly… freeing," Nikki admitted, a small smile playing on her lips. "I didn’t expect that."

"Many don’t," Elise replied. "Restraints, for the right person, can be liberating. They allow you to release control, to simply be."

The demonstration wrapped up, and Nikki stepped down from the platform, feeling both lighter and more grounded. Stella caught her eye and gave her an encouraging nod. The petite brunette trainee whispered something to the redhead, their expressions a mix of curiosity and nerves. Nikki understood how they felt—everything about this world was equal parts exhilarating and daunting.

"That’s enough for tonight," Madam Elise announced, her voice carrying through the space. "You’ve all done well. Reflect on your experiences, and we’ll build on them next time."

As the group dispersed, Nikki couldn’t help but glance toward the back of the room, where Lewis had been standing for the last few minutes. His presence was magnetic, commanding, and he was watching her—just her—with an intensity that made her stomach flip. He hadn’t approached her, hadn’t said a word, but the look in his eyes spoke volumes. He was observing, assessing, waiting.

Nikki swallowed hard, feeling heat crawl up her neck. It was one thing to hear about Lewis’s interest in her, but another to feel it—so potent and undeniable. The way his gaze lingered made her feel seen in a way she hadn’t been before. Stripped bare, bound, and vulnerable, yet somehow more confident than ever.

Stella nudged her gently. "Don’t let him get in your head too much," she teased. "Master Lewis likes to take his time. If he wants you, you’ll know it soon enough."

Nikki nodded, her heart still hammering in her chest. Whatever happened next—whether it was with Lewis or on her own—she was ready to keep learning, keep exploring, and keep pushing herself.

As she made her way back to the changing room, Nikki couldn’t help but smile. This was just the beginning.

[lokisprettygirl]

UHI taglist

currently this is the taglist for the series UHI. If you're still here just like the post or comment, if not I'll remove you from the taglist of next chapter especially if you haven't commented in ages. Just a routine taglist check up.. nothing serious 😂

Now sometimes I forget to tag people so if you had asked me tag you and I forgot and it's been quite sometime now, just know it wasn't done intentionally, I pulled a human and just had a memory loss.

Anyways let me know (I'll also remove the blank tags since your settings doesn't allow me to tag you)

@annoyingsweetsstranger   @mcufan72   @nixymarvelkins   @stupidthoughtsinwriting   @fictive-sl0th   @huntress-artemiss   @eleniblue   @violethaze   @anukulee   @ladymischief11   @12-pm-510   @wolfsmom1   @whylokiissocute   @hyperlokilover @vickie5446 @pics-and-fanfics   @daddylokisqueen   @tallseaweed @olivertwistrabbit   @blog-the-lilly   @prettylittlepluviophile   @vanilla-daydreaming   @somewiseguy   @yaaamadaa-blog   @dragonmurray   @nyxxharmonia @elthreetimes   @gruftiela   @thenotoriouserg   @optimisticyouthdefender @mcuhplover @greep215   @yallgotkik   @obscureenigmatic   @janineb86   @sflame15-blog   @nyxlaufeyson   @lokidokieokie   @purplekitten30   @sunnixart   @nikkig496-blog   @frozenhuntress67   @qardasngan   @rosecentury  @lokiswife-dark-fox-queen

[bluerosefox]

Little Grayson and his Talon Knights

Got a new idea cooking in my head.

Another DPxDC idea.

A reborn into DCverse Toddler!Danny but also Dad!Dick and Talons.

Danny is reborn into the DCverse (either he's a clone of Dick, a created test tube baby, OR a kid Dick unknowingly had during his amnesia year) and wakes up in the Court of Owls who finally have their Gray Son and will turn him into the greatest Talon ever.

Thing is, Danny still has his ghost powers (King Danny? Idk leaving it open, either that or just able to control clean ectoplasm) and knows whatever fruitloops have him, this will not be fun. So, when none of the Owls are watching him, he uses his abilities to influence a few Talons and they all book it out of the place.

Danny later finds himself walking the dirty Gotham streets with a few Talons, one holding his hand while the others hide in the shadows in case they need to protect the baby Talon they all care for.

Of course, the sighting of a Talon holding a toddler's hand catches the camera's and Oracles attention very very fast.

One of the Batboys is sent out, not Dick he's on a space mission right now, and whoever it is, is shocked to see a toddler that has a LOT of similarities to Dick.

[seefasters]

you can’t tell me they didn’t have some sort of weirdgirl friendship in the vampverse

[shrimpchipsss]

the professors shen should never have been forced to share an office

wasn't professor shen the senior being associate professor shen the junior's PhD advisor enough?

[puppetmaster13u]

Prompt 197

“Guys look, I got us pet rocks!” 

“That’s nice- Danny, why are the rocks moving?” 

“Ectoplasm. Obviously. They eat bad emotions, isn’t that cool?!” 

“They aren’t going to get that big though, right? I mean, we’re moving to the countryside but still.”

“I mean, they shouldn’t? Dang, maybe I should have asked Dora more questions…” 

[myoonmii]

I keep thinking about Merlin’s love for Arthur and how it’s so clearly portrayed in the show to the point that it practically drives the plot of the show. However when it comes to Arthur’s love for Merlin it’s more subtle and sometimes difficult to even grasp, and I started thinking why that was, aside from the obvious fact that Arthur has a lot of trouble expressing his emotions affection or otherwise. I think it also lies in the fact that Merlin knows Arthur intrinsically throughout the show; he is one of the closest people to Arthur, and sees him for who he really is. Arthur admits as much.

Sure, Arthur knows Merlin but the main part of the plot is that he really doesn't know Merlin. Merlin wants him to desperately understand him and “see me for who I am” but he can't yet. And I think this subconsciously creates a barrier in the way in which Arthur can care for Merlin, and how Merlin can let himself be seen by Arthur.

Which is why I think he was also so hurt when the magic reveal happens because more than the betrayal of Merlin having magic, it was the betrayal of Merlin not letting Arthur see him for who he really is and for hiding a main part of himself. Arthur says it himself “why did you never tell me” that’s what hurt him the most.

I think the most damning piece of evidence for this is the fact that while we see snippets of Arthur’s feelings for Merlin thought the show, the biggest signs are in the last episode after the magic reveal; in which he finally gets to understand Merlin, and this time REALLY know Merlin, and as the barriers of what held them back from understanding each other truly fall away, Arthur evidently “falls in love with Merlin all over again”. We see him actually express himself to Merlin.

This is another reason why I think if anyone was ever to create another season of Merlin after Arthur’s return, it’s physically impossible not to make it about Merlin and Arthur acknowledging their feelings for each other. Because there is no way forward without them acknowledging how deeply they care for each other, obviously anyone is free to argue what kind of love that is, but its impossible not to see the deep love there either way.

They always knew they loved each other, just maybe never realising how much and what that means, because its almost second nature to everything that they do.

[storytellering]

Torn apart. Inspired by Romeo and Juliet by Sergio Cupido

[necrotic-nephilim]

i personally have very complicated feelings on the Gotham Knights video game and the routes it takes with characterization. i think it has a charm to it and it goes in an interesting direction with everyone (especially within the confides of the plot of the game) but it does have certain moments that veer painfully fanon for me. (such as: the dialogue where Tim drinks too much coffee) it's an interesting story for what it is but i don't view it comics-based for characterization and therefore don't care to interact with it much for like. fanfic purposes.

that *said* though. i do have to give the game some kind of credit for giving one of the top five JayTim moments that lives rent free in my mind. every since i played the game, the cutscene lives in my mind daily. it's the specific cutscene where Jason and Tim are arguing about whether or not Jason's non-lethal bullets are too dangerous for the field, and the argument leads to TIm *standing in front of the target* Jason is shooting and telling Jason to shoot him. it lives rent free for me. i never stop thinking about this.

the absolute certainty Tim has that he is in no danger standing in front of Jason, who has a loaded gun pointed at his face. the way Jason *hesitates* for just a moment before lowering the gun. he thinks about it for just a second. Gotham Knights JayTim seem to get along very well and can rely on each other, but Jason still clearly holds a bitterness about his death and Tim that flickers through in some lines of dialogue under the guise of jokes. especially since this game deals *heavily* with concepts of Pit Madness causing an altered state of consciousness, i think it's believable that occasionally, Jason fights the urge to fight and hurt Tim for the feeling of being replaced.

i like their tension so much in this canon. they get along but you can *tell* Tim is afraid of addressing Jason's trauma or even addressing Jason head-on, and Jason leans into spooking Tim about it. which isn't very comics feeling in their dynamic, but it is an interesting way to place their dynamic if you're playing with a more timid Tim who's newer to the role of Robin. (which he seems to be in-game) he really doesn't want to offend Jason, or worse, piss him off. but he'll still face Jason head on for things like this, while completely aware of what Jason could be capable of.

and Jason seems very protective of Tim and respecting Tim as a Robin in typical Jason fashion. if Tim pushes, Jason *will* relent. he knows this is a kid who's proved himself and should be treated with equal respect, sometimes even more than Dick and Babs do in-game.

so for all that to culminate in Tim stepping in front of Jason's loaded gun that he *knows* is on the edge of being too dangerous, just to force Jason to listen? it's the most unhinged way Tim could've gotten his point across in this scene. he was literally daring Jason to hurt him and playing with a very dangerous fire. but he did it anyway bc he believed he could make Jason heel just at the thought of hurting Tim. and he was *right*. they're gay and i'm feral ty.

[bacchuschucklefuck]

this has been a roller coaster of a design journey but finally I can present you: class swap artificer!adaine and rogue!fabian

[thebramblewood]

Helena's not a killer (yet)! Let's party!

Previous / Next

Lilith: What surprises me more is not that you’ve had it all along but that I had no idea. I thought I knew all your secrets.

Caleb: [under breath] Hardly voluntarily.

Lilith: Speak up, baby brother.

Caleb: [slightly louder] It wasn’t a secret. I simply never wished to revisit the memories. But the record seemed worth preserving, so I tucked it away for safekeeping and did my best to forget it.

Lilith: Until you decided to hand it over to her without my permission.

Caleb: [laughs bitterly] Cut the outrage, Lilith. If anything, you should be thanking me. I can already tell she likes you better because of it. I did you a favor by chipping away some of your hard edges.

Lilith: [amused] Maybe you should be thanking me. I haven’t heard so much force in your voice since-

Helena: [sudden frantic shriek]

Lilith: Is she all right?

Drusilla: [agitated yowl]

Caleb: Is she all right?

-

Lilith: Helena?

Caleb: Drusilla?

Helena: [breathlessly] Look! Look!

Lilith: What are we looking at?

Helena: My sister finally updated her feed. They’re alive! I didn’t kill them!

Lilith: Well, that’s certainly a relief.

Caleb: You could say it like you mean it.

Lilith: Of course I mean it! I would never advocate killing children — unless they were particularly nasty ones. How do you feel, Helena?

Helena: Lucky. Grateful. Relieved.

Lilith: That particular storm cloud has been hanging over your head for far too long. Now, we can all finally relax. In fact, we should celebrate, the three of us together for once! And I think I know just the place.

[nichmeddar]

lewis hamilton

Under His Influence - LH (1/14)

SYNOPSIS: Several years after his last submissive, Lewis finally decides to look for another. His search brings him back to The Obsidian Lotus, where he encounters Nikki, a law student working as a cocktail waitress to make ends meet.

PAIRINGS: Billionaire/CEO!AU Lewis Hamilton x Nikita "Nikki" Gaines

WARNINGS: minors do not engage, 18+ only, contains themes of BDSM. (do not read if not comfortable)

A/N: Please let me know if you would like to be on the taglist or removed.

Nikki adjusted her fishnet stockings and then smoothed down her corset, taking a deep breath before pushing through the heavy velvet curtain into the main room of The Obsidian Lotus. The exclusive BDSM club hummed with energy, its dim lighting and plush decor a stark contrast to the austere halls of her law school.

Just a month ago, she'd been struggling to make ends meet. Her scholarships covered tuition and some supplies, but living expenses in New York City were crushing. Now, here she was, navigating a world she'd only read about in steamy novels. The vetting process had been intense - background checks, interviews, health screenings, and a crash course in club etiquette and safety protocols. But the pay was worth it, especially for a broke law student.

"Girl, you won't believe what happened in my training session today," Asha, Nikki's best friend and fellow law student, sidled up next to her at the bar.

Nikki raised an eyebrow as she arranged drinks on her tray. "Oh yeah? Spill."

Asha leaned in, lowering her voice. "I met this tech mogul. He's looking for a permanent sub. The allowance he's offering?" She whistled low. "Let's just say I could pay off some of my undergrad loans and have enough left over for a cushy apartment."

Nikki's eyes widened. She'd known the real money was in being a sub, especially to the wealthy elites who frequented The Obsidian Lotus and its sister clubs in London, Paris, and Los Angeles.

"Just be careful, okay?" Nikki cautioned, genuine concern coloring her voice.

Asha nodded, her expression serious. "Always. That's why I love this place. The safety measures are no joke."

As if on cue, Nikki noticed one of the ever-present security staff doing a subtle sweep of the room. The club's reputation for discretion and safety was what attracted its high-profile clientele - politicians, celebrities, and business tycoons from around the world.

Nikki hefted her tray and made her way into the crowd, weaving between leather-clad bodies and elegant evening wear. As she straightened after serving a table, movement on the main stage caught her eye. A scene was starting, featuring none other than Madam Penny herself.

Madam Penny was a striking figure - a Black woman in her forties with flawless skin and an aura of unshakeable confidence. Her natural hair was styled in an elegant updo, and her curvaceous figure was accentuated by a form-fitting leather dress. As the CEO of a thriving beauty empire, she exuded power and grace.

Circling her on the stage was her sub for the evening - a lithe Asian man in his late twenties. His jet-black hair was artfully tousled, and his lean muscles rippled under smooth, pale skin as he knelt before Madam Penny. His dark eyes never left her face, a mix of adoration and anticipation clear in his gaze.

Madam Penny traced the crop along the man's bare back, focusing on his shoulders and the curve of his spine. "Color?" she asked firmly.

"Green," the man responded, his voice husky.

She brought the crop down with a sharp crack against his upper thigh. The man gasped, his muscles tensing visibly.

"Thank you, Mistress," he breathed.

She alternated between gentle caresses and firmer strikes across his back, buttocks, and thighs. Each impact elicited a different reaction - sometimes a soft moan, other times a sharp intake of breath.

Nikki was transfixed as Madam Penny continued to bring her crop down on the man's skin with practiced precision.

"Careful there, sweetheart," one of the men at the booth chuckled, noticing Nikki's distraction.

Nikki felt her cheeks warm. "My apologies, sir. Enjoy your evening."

As she moved to the next table, she couldn't help but steal glances at the stage. The intensity between Madam Penny and her sub was palpable, even from a distance. She watched as the powerful CEO leaned down to whisper something to the man, saw his full-body shudder in response.

A month in, and Nikki still found herself fascinated by these displays. The trust, the power exchange, the raw vulnerability - it was unlike anything she'd ever seen.

"Nikki! Table 12 needs their order taken," her supervisor, Nigel, voice crackled through her earpiece.

Right. She was here to work, not gawk. Nikki straightened her shoulders and turned towards Table 12, pushing thoughts of the scene from her mind. She had bills to pay, after all.

Nikki walked over to the table, her eyes landing on a handsome man sitting in the booth. His tawny brown skin seemed to glow even in the dim lighting, and his soulful whiskey-colored eyes captivated her immediately. His hair was neatly styled in braids with a sharp faded edges, and the sleeves of his crisp button-down shirt were rolled up, proudly displaying intricate tattoos along his forearms.

Lost in her observations, Nikki was startled when the man cleared his throat. "Sorry, sir," she muttered, quickly glancing down respectfully. It was the first rule she'd learned during her thorough training: always show respect. Between not being allowed to look a Dom or Madam directly in the eyes unless instructed, addressing them correctly, and various other protocols, it had been a lot to take in when she first began working there.

From beneath her lashes, she noticed the man's lips quirk into a slight grin. "It's okay, sweetheart," he said, his accented voice a rich baritone that sent a shiver down her spine. It was warm and smooth, like aged bourbon. "Look up for me."

His command caused her brows to furrow in confusion, but she obeyed, lifting her chin and meeting his gaze. Now that she had a better view, she noticed the glint of piercings in both his nostrils, adding an edge to his refined appearance.

"Fuck, you're gorgeous. Do you have-"

"Lewis!" a voice called, interrupting their exchange. A Black man approached, and Nikki immediately recognized him as Marcus, the club's manager. The two men greeted each other with a familiar dap, and Marcus glanced in Nikki's direction, causing her to instantly avert her eyes.

"Is everything to your liking?" Marcus asked, addressing Lewis but keeping Nikki in his peripheral vision.

"Yes, it is. Just wanted to know about this beautiful woman here."

"Ah…" Marcus said, gently taking Nikki's arm and revealing the flower bracelet on her wrist: a white lily, signifying her status as a simple cocktail waitress - off limits.

"Sorry, my friend," Marcus said, almost regretfully, to Lewis. Nikki could have sworn she heard Lewis grumble his displeasure. "Don't fret, we have many subs available if you'd like to do a scene."

"Mmhmm," was Lewis' only response. He held Nikki's gaze for a few more beats before finally speaking. "In that case, I'll take a scotch, neat."

"Of course, sir," Nikki replied, then quickly made her way to the bar. Once there, she let out a held breath, her eyes drifting to her bracelet.

The Obsidian Lotus used a system of flower bracelets to denote each person's status:

White lily for regular employees and non-subs, like Nikki. Pink rose for subs in training, like Asha. Red tulip for unattached subs, available for scenes or potential long-term arrangements. Purple orchid for attached subs, indicating they were in an ongoing dynamic.

All Doms and Madams wore an obsidian lotus pendant bracelet, marking their status and authority within the club.

Nikki's fingers brushed over her white lily bracelet. For a brief moment, she wondered what it might be like to wear a different flower, to step into that world fully. But she shook off the thought. She had a law degree to focus on. This job was a means to an end - nothing more, nothing less.

Gathering her composure, she prepared Lewis' drink, all too aware of his eyes following her movements from across the room.

Lewis watched as she walked away, his eyes tracing the curves accentuated by her required uniform. The corset-style top hugged her breasts perfectly, while the skirt flared slightly, ending just at the tops of her thighs, showing her wide hips and just the slightest hint of her pert backside. Fishnet stockings disappeared into black stilettos, the ensemble completed by a delicate white lily bracelet that now felt like a barrier between them.

Disappointment settled in his chest. Off limits. The words echoed in his mind, fueling a frustration that had been building for months. As a billionaire with stakes in beverage empires, fashion houses, and lucrative investments, Lewis was used to getting what he wanted. But here, in The Obsidian Lotus, different rules applied.

The last few months of "vanilla sex" had left him feeling hollow, and he was almost desperate enough to step in front of a bus just to feel something. He craved the intensity, the power exchange that only BDSM could provide. His mind drifted to his last sub - a relationship that had ended with security escorting her out and a hastily terminated contract. The memory was a stark reminder of why he avoided emotional entanglements.

Lewis had discovered his dominant side ten years ago, thrown into the deep end by a seasoned submissive who recognized his potential. Since then, he'd honed his skills relentlessly, attending workshops, reading voraciously, and practicing with willing partners. The Obsidian Lotus membership had come later, a natural progression for someone of his status and inclinations.

"Everything alright?" Marcus asked, pulling Lewis from his thoughts.

"Yeah, just… frustrated," Lewis admitted, running a hand over his braids.

Marcus nodded knowingly. "I could arrange a scene for you. We have several experienced subs available tonight."

Lewis considered the offer. He wasn't thrilled by the idea, but he was here, wasn't he? Might as well make the most of it. "Sure, why not?"

As they discussed options, she returned with his drink. Lewis found his gaze drawn to her once more, shaking his head at the cruel twist of fate. Here was a woman who genuinely intrigued him, and she was untouchable.

She was a vision of quiet allure. Her smooth dark skin, high cheekbones and full lips. Her hair was styled in neat box braids, pulled back into a high ponytail that swayed gently as she moved. Almond-shaped eyes, framed by long lashes, held a depth of intelligence that belied her demure demeanor.

She set the scotch down with practiced grace. "Will there be anything else, sir?" she asked, eyes appropriately lowered.

"No, thank you," Lewis replied, noting the perfect balance of deference and poise in her manner. Yet there was something else - a hint of defiance, perhaps? A spark that suggested depths untapped. It both frustrated and fascinated him.

As Nikki retreated, Lewis sipped his scotch, lamenting his poor luck. He'd love to explore that rebellious streak he sensed in her, to see how she'd respond to his dominance. But unless she changed her status, all he could do was imagine the possibilities.

With a sigh, he turned back to Marcus. "So, about those available subs…"

Marcus nodded, his expression a mix of understanding and professional detachment. "We have a few options tonight. There's Jasmine, a petite brunette who specializes in rope play. Or perhaps Alexis, a statuesque blonde who enjoys impact play. Both are experienced and highly recommended."

Lewis listened, but found his attention drifting. He nodded mechanically as Marcus continued his descriptions, his mind still lingering on her. From the corner of his eye, he could see her expertly navigating the room, balancing trays, and taking orders with effortless efficiency.

"You know what," Lewis interrupted, surprising himself. "I think I'll pass tonight. Just not in the right headspace."

Marcus raised an eyebrow but didn't push. "Of course. The offer stands if you change your mind."

As Marcus excused himself, Lewis sipped his scotch, savoring the burn. He found himself wondering about her story. What brought a woman like her to work in a place like this? Was she just here for the money, or was there a curiosity that drove her?

He shook his head, trying to dispel the thoughts. It was pointless to speculate. She was off-limits, end of story. Yet as the night wore on, he couldn't help but track her movements, imagining what could have been if circumstances were different.

The frustration that had driven him here tonight remained, but it had shifted. No longer was it just sexual tension, but a deeper, more complex ache. Lewis finished his drink, deciding it was time to call it a night. As he stood to leave, he caught her eye across the room. For a brief moment, he thought he saw a flicker of something - interest? - before she quickly looked away.

Lewis left The Obsidian Lotus, the cool night air hitting him like a wall of bricks as he slipped into the backseat of his awaiting town car. He knew he should be focused on finding a suitable submissive, on scratching the itch that had been plaguing him for months. Instead, his mind was filled with images of dark skin, almond eyes, and a white lily bracelet.

He wanted her.

Now he just had to figure out a way to get her.

As Nikki left Professor Larson's Constitutional Law class, her mind was still reeling from the complex legal theories they'd discussed. The course was challenging, pushing her analytical skills to their limits, but she found it exhilarating. Today's lecture on the Commerce Clause had been particularly intense, leaving her with a mix of excitement and mental exhaustion.

"Hey Nikki, want to grab coffee and study?" Jake asked, falling into step beside her. His warm brown eyes and easy smile were as charming as ever. With his wavy black hair and sharp jawline, Jake was undeniably handsome. But Nikki had promised herself not to get involved with classmates, no matter how tempting.

"Sorry, Jake. I've got plans," she replied, adjusting her backpack.

Stepping out of Columbia Law School's imposing stone building, Nikki was greeted by a crisp autumn breeze. Golden leaves swirled across the campus green, a picturesque scene that still amazed her even after months of attendance.

As she walked the path towards the subway, she spotted Professor Greene. The anthology professor and department chair was also a member of The Obsidian Lotus. Bald with a neatly trimmed salt-and-pepper beard, his dark skin had a healthy glow that belied his years. Kind eyes behind wire-rimmed glasses exuded a gentle authority. Nikki knew from club gossip that his demeanor changed dramatically in scenes - he was known for his strict discipline and penchant for orgasm control.

"Nikki, how are you?" he greeted warmly.

"I'm well, Professor. Just finished Con Law with Professor Larson."

"Ah, the Commerce Clause, if I remember the syllabus correctly. Tough stuff."

They chatted about the upcoming Moot Court competition, with Professor Greene offering some advice on presentation techniques. Though not his student, Nikki always appreciated these friendly exchanges.

On the train, her thoughts turned to her grandmother as she headed to the nursing home in Queens. Nikki was essentially an orphan - her father unknown, her mother more interested in chasing men than raising a child. Her grandmother had stepped in, caring for Nikki until two strokes left her in poor health.

The nursing home, Sunnyside Gardens, was a modest but clean facility. Its beige walls and linoleum floors weren't luxurious, but the staff was caring, which mattered most.

In her grandmother's room, Nikki took in the frail form of the woman who raised her. Despite her weakness, her grandmother's eyes lit up at Nikki's presence. Her once-dark hair was now completely white, her brown skin papery thin, but her spirit remained strong.

"How's school, baby?" she asked, her voice thin but warm.

"It's good, Gran. Challenging, but I'm loving it," Nikki shared, settling into the worn armchair beside the bed. "I made it to the second round of interviews at Pearson Hardman for their spring internship program."

"That's my girl," her grandmother beamed. "You always were a fighter. Now, when are you going to start dating?"

Nikki laughed, "Gran, you know I'm too busy for that."

"Nonsense. You're young, beautiful. Live a little."

They continued chatting, Nikki filling her in on school gossip and her part-time job (carefully omitting the exact nature of the club). As always, leaving was hard. When she was about to exit, the nursing home director stopped her.

"Ms. Gaines, a moment please," the director said, her tone serious.

Nikki's heart raced, fearing bad news about her grandmother's health.

"I wanted to thank you for this month's payment, but I need to inform you that our rates will be increasing soon," the director explained.

Shock coursed through Nikki as the director revealed the new rate - almost double the current fee, even with a "discount."

"When does this take effect?" Nikki managed to ask.

"In two months," the director replied.

Later, on the subway ride home, Nikki's mind raced on how will she would be able to afford the new rates. More shifts at the club? A second job? Campus tutoring? None seemed feasible with her study schedule.

Then, an intrusive thought: sub training and its stipend. It would cover her grandmother's care, and a wealthy Dom might cover the rest. It was risky, but what choice did she have?

With shaking hands, Nikki texted Asha: "Hey girl, can we talk about that sub training? Might be interested…"

TAGLIST: @mauvecherie-writes @cocobutterqwueen @serpenttines @queenshikongo3 @blowmymbackout @yeea-nah

[lokisprettygirl]

If anyone is still reading UHI , Im gonna try and update the next chapter tonight. Sorry i haven't been much active lately.

[piromina]

OVERANALYSIS OF THE BURNING SPICE UPDATE TRAILER BECAUSE YOU KNOW I HAVE TO

we open up like this. pretty ominous words ... and you wonder which one is the demon and which is the god. burning spice and golden cheese seem to be very similar, possibly the most parallels that one could draw from the ancients and their respective beasts.

And then we get this shot. Obviously it's showing the soul jam, but there are also some things behind it. One resembles a snake ... APOPHIS ANYONE? this has THE most Egyptian mythology symbolism ever. if golden cheese represents ra, which makes one hundred percent sense considering her kingdom and wealth and radiance and all that, and the fact that she resembles a falcon, then the snake on this wall HAS to represent apophis. it can't not. heck, in some versions of the story apophis was A FORMER SUN GOD. like crk def knows what they're doing.

there's also this tiger character ... nutmeg tiger I'm pretty sure? something like that. they seem to be under the influence of burning spice, as well as all the creatures around them. they seem to be at a higher "position" than all these other guys, though. maybe a willing host?

and there is this. this is really interesting. the fact that Golden Cheese is the one to say this is very intriguing. as far as we knew, the ancients had no knowledge that the beasts even existed until pure vanilla's trip. he wrote the letter to dark cacao, and it was all "you won't believe this - but the place called BEAST-yeast has BEASTS in it!!!" and dark cacao was equally surprised. they didn't know. they thought they were the first ever wielders of the soul jam. but golden cheese ... seems to know a bit more than she lets on to the rest of the group. and a bit more than us. what the heck is the spice swarm?

also, the return (and release) of smoked cheese!! man I missed this guy. he seems to be working with golden cheese in this shot, but then what was his little deal at the end of the first teaser about? it does make sense, though, that he would try to at least be against burning spice - his entire goal is to get the soul jam because he thinks the current wielders aren't worthy - but to me it seems like he might have his own third side in this battle. he'll probably convince both sides he's working with them, knowing this dude. he wants the power of abundance and destruction, a second half he knew nothing about, the ability to make a change in the kingdoms and the lives of everyone in them.

and these two images are probably the most interesting of them all. they seem to be part of some sort of ancient papyrus or prophecy or something like that. golden cheese is yelling about the "great destroyer." could it be possible he was some sort of legend in their kingdom, a prophecy just waiting to unfold? could golden cheese have known about this threat since the beginning? could the beasts' corruption have been inevitable from the start, written in the stars ... and could the witches have known about it?

[skrunksthatwunk]

kurama has access to forbidden strains + shiori wedding shenanigans

[farshootergotme]

"Dick Grayson has anger issues-" okay, but does he actually? When I thought that was true I come to find that most of the evidence to make that claim come from a time in which Dick was being mentally controlled by Brother Blood or right after the death of his parents which obviously would cause anger after finding out they didn't even die naturally but were murdered on top of that.