#vertical striped curtains

[alottiegoingon]

hc!friends to lovers

lottie matthews x fem!reader

summary: going from friends to lovers with lottie

warnings: lottie mentioned as lesbian once, pure fluff, nsfw at the bottom so MDNI there, not proofread

this was a request so i hope you enjoy it 🤞

@l0tt1emy this is me tagging youu

WHEN FRIENDS

୨୧ being friends with lottie matthews would include spend your saturday night on her huge house (more like a mansion to you) when her parents were out for work or just so busy that they wouldn't even notice you there

୨୧ you didn't know that, but she would spend the entire day thinking about you when it was a sleepover night

୨୧ sleepovers would be a casual thing for you and it was your favorite moment of the day cause lottie would turn it into a fashion show to model her new clothes for you

୨୧ speaking of it, you would constantly find yourself waiting in fitting rooms and their uncomfortable seats when lottie was trying on thousands of clothes just to buy (steal) one or two

୨୧ "do you think it looks too pink?" lottie comes out from behind the curtains to display the outfit she was trying on, featuring a fluffy pink cropped cardigan with short sleeves paired with a high-waisted, pink skirt that features vertical stripes

୨୧ "no, you look perfect," you say softly, eyes filled with affection while feeling a nervous flutter stirs in your stomach

୨୧ in parties, you would usually stick to her side and even though lottie wasn't extremely popular, people knew who she was. either because her parents had loads of money or cause, let's be honest, she fucking was stunning

୨୧ when offering to get her a drink and she would look at you with those pretty eyes and nod like "okay :)))"

୨୧ if you were part of the yellowjackets, during jackie's idea of telling the girls what you admire about them, you would DEF make her blush on purpose

୨୧ "lottie matthews..." you say lightheartedly and she's already screaming internally "you have the prettiest hair i’ve ever seen and a great fashion sense. and, yeah, you suck at french but you are so good at soccer and you have the biggest and kindest heart ever"

୨୧ and she's giggling and nervously rocking from side to side with her cheeks matching the color of her clothes

୨୧ lottie was a lonely kid and since her parents were always away, she would be taken care of by maids and housekeepers so she was easily anxious when speaking to people her age. luckyfor her, she would hide it quite well and the mean and cutesy lesbian in her would mask it greatly

୨୧ "does someone want to tell kelly kapowski to maybe worry less about prom and more about not fսcking up nationals?" lottie was mumbling in front of the mirror, fixing her bangs and makeup and you were ready to agree with anything she said

୨୧ "i know right?" but you didn't even know what kelly kapowski had said

୨୧ putting her money to good use, one of her favorite ways to show you how grateful she was for your friendship was to buy you things. not like once or twice but ALL. THE. TIME.

୨୧ books, vhs tapes of your favorite movies, vinyl, a cute dress you mentioned once, nice shoes, stuffed animals, things that reminded her of you. all you can possibly think of!!!

୨୧ "lot, you didn't have to. this must have cost a fortune!" and it's just her standing at your front door, hidden behind a huge teddy bear she bought for your birthday and a brand new walkman

୨୧ one night, when lottie's parents were home, she sneaked you in and you almost fell to your death when climbing the walls like fucking spider-man and getting to her room through the window but her perfume lingering around made everything worthy when she hugged you

୨୧ "thank you for coming, i know it's late," she lies in bed and tap the empty space beside her for you to join her. "it's okay, i was just watching a movie. i'm glad you called me"

୨୧ 'movie’ you said, but the flashback of you sleeping buried under the covers and snoring like an old guy comes to your mind...

୨୧ i feel like lottie would have a hard time opening up to people and letting them in but if they were genuine, she would trust them. but def insecure about telling you about her visits to the psychiatrist cause we all know she's just a silly girl with a few issues...

୨୧ but you were so respectful, reassuring and understanding to her that she doesn't feel ashamed or judged

୨୧ during that specific night when you were just hanging around together in her bed and talking about life, an accidental graze of her nose on yours led to an awkward moment that led to awkward giggles and an awkward and messy kiss and this was all you needed to call her your girlfriend

WHEN DATING

୨୧ even when dating, lottie would often feel insecure and ask you for help. reassuring her and telling her that there she wasn't broken and there was nothing wrong with her was something you always had to do but it didn't bother you at all. you were lottie's biggest worshiper and could spend hours just telling her how BADLY you loved her

୨୧ hear me out. lottie was a big fan of holding hands. you could be in class, watching a movie, reading together, talking with your group of friends, and even eating, but she was ALWAYS staring at you with pleading eyes and her palm facing up, extended in your direction, ready for you to hold her hand

୨୧ if you think she spoiled you too much already, you better take a seat cause that girl would show up at your place with presents all the time. "i know we agreed on saving money but i know how badly you wanted these..." you're speechless when she gives you something you really wanted

୨୧ but you can't get mad, you just thank her and kiss her adorable pout :(

୨୧ loves loves LOVES to give you small gifts as well like a pretty shell she found when going to the beach once or even her ENTIRE shell collection

୨୧ strongly believe that she would be the greatest big spoon ever and would love to cuddle you but doesn’t complain if you want to hold her

୨୧ lottie is TALL. a three would be afraid of her! im 100% convinced that she would put your stuff in a place you can't reach so you have to ask her for help. "baby, are you busy? can you get that for me?" and she's fighting demons to maintain her composure, resisting the urge to smile as she handles you the book she had just tucked away on the top shelf

୨୧ over protective lottie!!! she isn’t exactly jealous cause she trusted you a lot but is always around and keeping you in her sight. she has her arm around you all the time, drives you EVERYWHERE (makes her driver do that), and is always ready to defend you

୨୧ oh the many things that happened in the backseat that the poor driver had to ignore...

୨୧ if the crash had happened, one single mumble of yours about how hungry you were was ENOUGH for her to call nat and travis out. "lottie, there's no food. we looked everywhere!" "look harder!"

NSFW (MDNI)

୨୧ lottie spoils you with cute gifts but she’s not innocent. she would buy you the prettiest lingerie in the store just to fuck you in those 🤭

୨୧ she would adore when you face ride her. she just can’t resist to your moans and soft noises or how you feel so shy and dirty about it but just can’t stop. she loves to feel your legs around her face

୨୧ in fact, i’m a strong believer that she could just cum by hearing you moan her name. you can’t believe your eyes when you feel her nails dig into your thighs and lottie desperately closing her legs and rubbing them together, groaning into your pussy :(

୨୧ big fan of overstimulating you!!! holding your hips to keep you riding her face or her strap if she’s under you or rubbing your clit even after you made a mess on her fingers just to watch you squirm and cry for her 🤓

୨୧ i’ve mentioned this before BUT fucking you against a mirror in dressing rooms? she’s all in. even better if she’s fucking you from behind with a strap AND forcing you look at your messy and humiliating reflection in the mirror

୨୧ now when it comes to her, she loves when you suck her but keep your eyes on hers. eye contact is!!!! her fingers go crazy in your hair, pulling and holding so tight that it hurts but you don’t give a damn about it

୨୧ she wouldn't ever say no but she prefers to have her time with you instead of quickies. im a lottie hopeless romantic truther!!!

୨୧ i feel like she's not really loud when you're eating her out or fucking her, she just moans your name and lets lots of soft, weak and breathy noises and whimpers out 😵‍💫

[msmoony7]

New Beginnings

Summary: Y/N transfers to Hogwarts from Ilvermorny and finds herself intrigued by the quiet, sandy haired boy Remus Lupin.

Pairing: Remus Lupin x Fem!Reader, reader not in a specific house

Word Count: 1.4 K

Genre: fluff

Warnings: none

masterlist

You wake up in your bed to the sun shining and the birds chirping through your opened windows. You arrived late last night to Hogwarts and slept in a little later than you had liked; It was nearly lunch time. Classes are starting tomorrow, so you are planning to explore the castle a little before then to get used to your new surroundings. Transferring schools in your 5th year was difficult, so you were hoping to make the adjustment as easy as possible for yourself.

Since there are no classes today, you’re free to dress however you like. You opt for a pair of light blue jeans, black converse, and a blue sweater with some vertical stripes over your chest. You sit at your desk and do your usual makeup and hair routines before unpacking the rest of your things. First you unpack your records and record player. You put on your favorite album - The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars by David Bowie - while you finish unpacking. You got lucky and your dorm has a big bay window with a built-in seat with cushions and large bookshelves built into the wall around it, which is great for you due to your love of reading and insane collection of books. Your bed is in the middle of the room with a huge bed frame and blue curtains draping from the top. After you are all unpacked, you decide to make your way down to the Great Hall for lunch. 

You only have to stop and ask 6 kids along the way if you were going in the right direction. The ever-changing staircases made for a confusing walk there. But finally, you make it down the last set of steps and can see the Great Hall in the near distance. You’re about to turn into the hall when you stop in your tracks as you hear a great boom in the hall followed by smoke and yelling. You see a guy with long jet-black hair run past you first with a glasses wearing brunette on his trail, followed by a shorter boy with blonde hair.

“Come on, Moony, we’re gonna get caught!” you hear the first boy yell. You’re about to turn around to walk into the Hall and see what’s going on but before you could do so, you hear an “oh, shit” and as you turn fully around, are knocked to the floor by someone running full speed out of the hall. You hit the ground and lock eyes with a sandy haired boy who's laying fully on top of you. You’re staring at each other for a solid five seconds before the blonde boy yells at him. 

“Moony, hurry up! Snape’s coming!”

Moony, who you gather to be the boy currently laying on you, quickly helps you up, mutters a quick “sorry” and runs up the stairs to follow the other three boys. You can hear them muttering and making fun of him for falling onto you as they’re running away, and you see “Moony” trip again before all four boys disappear up the steps. Just as they disappear, a raven-haired boy with smoke and powder all over him storms out of the hall and up the steps. You make out that he must be Snape and that the explosion was definitely caused by those boys. 

You finally gather yourself and you see three girls standing by the doorway who must’ve watched everything go down. 

“Quite a tumble you took there. That’s Moony, he’s a klutz,” says a girl with dark, curly hair and a darker complexion, “My name’s Mary. Are you new here?”

“Yeah, my name’s Y/N, I just got here last night.

“Ahhh you’re American! I’m Marlene,” the second girl speaks up. She has blonde hair and a really cool vibe to her. 

“You can come eat with us, if you’d like. I’m Lily, by the way,” says the final red headed girl.

The four of you walk into the hall and you cannot contain your amazement at what you’re met with. The ceiling is the highest ceiling you’ve ever seen, and it’s enchanted to look like the sky. Unlike your old school, which had tables divided by the houses, this hall had numerous smaller rectangular tables so that you could sit with whomever you liked. The four of you grab a table and start eating your meal.

“Those boys are the biggest troublemakers in the school,” Mary says, “Always pulling pranks.”

“Yeah, we still love them though,” Lily replies.

“You more than others,” Marlene says to her as she nudges and winks at her.

Lily blushes in response, “James, the one wearing glasses, yeah, he’s my boyfriend. A real sweetheart. Unless you’re Severus, of course.”

“I take it that’s the boy that had all the smoke on him?”

“Yep, you’d be correct. The boys tend to overreact, but he really isn't a nice person. Steer clear of him,” Mary says.

“Noted. So, that guy, Moony, what’s up with him?”

“Ooooo, Y/N’s got a crush already?” Marlene snickers towards you, making you blush.

“Not a crush, but from our five second interaction, I think he’s pretty cute.”

“You should go for it,” Marlene says, “In all our years at Hogwarts, I don’t think I’ve seen him talk to girls that weren’t us for more than a minute. I’d say you have high odds.”

“Oh, I can’t do that. I’m too shy,” you contest.

“Well, that’s perfect! He’s pretty shy himself. What do you do in your free time?” Lily asks.

You list some of your hobbies for the girls, including reading, writing, and music.

“Well, aren’t you the perfect girl for him. He loves all those things. Tell me you like Bowie,” Mary says. You say nothing in response, shocked that they can read you so well, which causes the girls to yell. “You ARE the perfect girl for him. Come we’ll show you around the castle and then we’re sending you off to him.”

Before you can fight them on this, they’re pulling you around the castle showing you every nook and cranny. You’re grateful for this; You wouldn’t have been able to find your way around otherwise. They show you all the classrooms, take you on a tour of the grounds outside, up all the towers, and finally, you end the tour at the library.

“This is the library,” Lily says, “Since you like to read, I’m sure you’ll spend so much time here. Lucky for you, this is Moony’s favorite place! And if my calculations are correct, he should be in there right now. C’mon, let’s go find him!”

Lily is dragging you inside, and she’s a lot stronger than she looks. They drag you to the far back corner of the library in a hidden nook, revealing the sandy haired boy from before sitting on a couch, nose deep in a book. He doesn’t hear you guys approaching at first and once you guys are a few feet away from him, he pulls his head out of his book and looks up. He immediately locks eyes with you, causing both of you to blush. 

“Gotta go, bye!” Marlene says as she pulls Lily and Mary away from you, leaving you alone with the boy. The two of you still staring at each other, not knowing what to say. 

“Hi,” you say breathlessly.

“Hi,” he says back.

[edupunkn00b]

In the Arms of the Angel

Written for the @tsspromptmonth Sleepy Bean Fanfic Café for @nonbinary-octopus. Prompt: Space au with a language barrier, and optional gt, animal traits, and enemies to friends. Aliens carefully introducing a new humans to the spaceship like acclimatizing cats; Janus as the territorial established "cat."

Rated: G - CW: 3846

Logan lost count of how many days had passed since the ship’s sub-light engines had stopped and the deafening clank of docking claws had dragged against the hull. His captors had switched out the double-walled water tank eight times, always within the same cycle of when the level dipped below 25% of the clear container’s capacity.

They always came in twos to exchange the tank. One would with the sealed 80-liter tank pinched gingerly between finger and thumb, the other standing guard with a tapered metal rod as thick around as Logan’s chest and three times his height. The narrow end spat and sizzled with electricity, the other ended in a hinged semi-circle.

A semi-circle designed to fit perfectly around the average Terran neck.

He eyed the water tank now. One more shower and it would likely hit the Kelplan’s arbitrary refill mark. Sitting in the corner, he could peer through the partially-empty tank, trying again to identify the sensors or cameras they used to track the water level. He’d never found it. He supposed one of the many sets of Keplan’s who’d plod down the hall might make note of it along their path, but save for the singular time a group of them had actually opened his cell, none would slow as they moved past him.

That visit had ended when he’d thrown a cup of water at the nearest of them, a Keplan only twice his height who’d tried to lift him up by his hair. The spill had triggered the ship’s hazard alarms—and granted Logan his personal experience with both ends of the Keplan’s rod.

He’d just drawn the privacy shade and begun to undress when bells dinged, announcing his cell was being opened. Scrambling to cover himself, he’d managed to zip his thermal unisuit when the curtain and pulled back with the sparking end of a Keplan rod.

~“Sdjy aldu yslkfjy sii!”~ the taller Keplan’s mic screeched at him, gesturing with the rod toward his bed in the far corner of the cell. ~”Aldu! Aldu sii!”~

Shaking his head, Logan pointed in vain at his ear piece. He didn’t know if it was his device was damaged or if the Keplans’ had theirs set to the wrong Gamma Quadrant language. It didn’t matter much. Neither could understand each other.

The Keplan stabbed the rod in his direction again, close enough to raise the hair on the back of his neck and arms. When words failed….

Relenting, Logan moved to his bed and sat on top of the blanket, knees hugged to his chest, bare feet carefully clear of the metal bed frame. The Keplan grunted to its partner still in the hall. A low, buzzy hum told Logan they’d activated the floor guard, electrifying the cell floor.

It grunted again, then trilled something long and musical out in the hall. Bulbous blue eyes atop a smooth green head peered through the doorway. Vertical slits blinked at him, once, twice, then a third time before the hulking figure squeezed through the door.

The visitor stood at least a half a meter taller than the largest of the Keplans, though the tight quarters forced a slouch that might have hidden as much as another meter of height. The creature blinked at him again, then reached for him with a hand large enough for Logan to sit on.

Careful not to touch the cell walls, Logan shrank back, shaking his head.

Grey stripes oscillated up and down the newcomer’s face and it turned its hand, palm up, close enough for Logan to touch. The Keplan near the door trilled and tromped further in, the neck-ring end of its rod pointed at Logan. The newcomer squawked and turned, shifting its hulking frame to stand between them. The Keplan stopped its advance.

The green creature made another little sound, a deep, rhythmic huffing that Logan would have thought was laughter in a Terran. Eyes turning first, it looked at Logan. He stared back, watching the creature’s eyes swivel in their sockets. Moving independently of each other, they traced over his cell, his cracked eyeglasses, his bare feet. His neck. They were entrancing, with no discernible limit to their degrees of motion.

Too late, Logan noticed how close the creature had gotten and by the time he felt the slimy touch of its fingertips against his face, and its sticky toxin had already begun to numb his cheek. He shouted, arms flailing, then collapsed in a heap on the bed.

Unable to move, he could only watch as the creature’s giant hand closing around his body. Then darkness fell.

~

“Be careful!” The Kepler System Asylum Coordinator warned from the doorway, too cowardly to enter the Terran’s quarters. “It’s vicious! It tried to burn my cub with acid!”

“I watched the vid,” Patton shook his head, tucking the tiny Terran in his shelter blanket before gently scooping him up. “Your cub lifted him up by his hair!”

“Their hair is dead. LIfeless—” The shorter Keplan interjected, six fingers twitching on her barbaric prod. “They’re not tentacles, you know.”

Patton let his displeasure show in his skin and she had the good grace to step further back. “Just because their hair can’t move doesn’t mean they don’t feel pain when you yank on it! Is this your first Terran?’

“Well—”

Patton turned his back to her and the Keplan in the doorway and caught Remus’ eye where he waited in the hall. “He’s very light,” he frowned, cradling the tiny Terran close to his chest. “I hope I didn’t use too much.”

Center eye narrowed, Remus smiled. “He’s strong. He looked ready to fight you,” he added with laugh that shook the deck.

Unconvinced, Patton brushed away the matted hair that had fallen over his face, noting the sharp cut of his jaw, the hollows of his cheeks. Anger buzzed beneath his skin as he approached the Coordinator. “You’ve been underfeeding him,” he hissed.

“It’s—”

“This Terran uses ‘he.’” Remus interrupted, tapping the datapad in the Coordinator’s hand. “Or can you not read your own chain of custody forms?”

A low growl expressed the guard’s displeasure at the interruption but she bowed her head in quick apology. “He does not eat all we give him.”

Patton stood taller, the tiny Terran clutched close.

Fearful pheromones wafted from both the Keplans. “We cannot be held responsible when it—he’s not a good eater,” the Coordinator finally countered.

Sparing one last look at the meager quarters, Patton stretched to his full height in the hall. “You’d better hope you can prove that on your next inspection.”

“C’mon, Paddy,” Remus tugged his elbow, looking down at the unconscious Terran bundled in his arms. Patton allowed himself to be pulled away from the Keplans. “It’s time we got him home.”

Recalling the little Terran’s willingness to fight him, he kept his eyes on the tiny creature. “You don’t think he’ll be so… fiesty with Janus, do you?”

Remus blinked slowly in thought before tapping the doorplate. Neither could ignore the lack of plates set at Terran height. He wiggled his fingers once they’d passed through and the door swished shut behind them. “Well, that’s what your ju-ju juice is for, isn’t it?”

~

Logan woke on a fluffy cushion in one corner of a large, dimly lit room. The space was furnished in a mix of Standard and Terran-sized pieces, with soft rugs set between plush sitting areas and tables. One wall was taken up with the usual computer screens and terminals, one—impossibly—set to a Terran’s height. At the other end of the room was a tall platform, set at least twenty feet in the air, only six or so feet from the ceiling. Terran-height.

With no ladder and steps, it appeared the way in or out of the elevated space was being lifted by one of the much taller creatures who ran this ship. Logan shuddered at the implications of a soft-padded prison with no walls.

He didn’t have long to think about it. Shadows moved on the other side of the translucent door and Logan hid behind a tall chair just before it swooshed open. Voices filled the space, more of the same musical gibberish his translator had produced back in his Keplan cell with another, lower voice woven through.

A Terran voice.

Logan shook his head, fighting to hear past the buzz from his earpiece to parse through the heavily accented Terran beneath.

“Xcmzz—understand why it has to—zxcbc—my room—cvz!”

The answering rumble was soft, with a similar huffing sound Logan had heard back in his cell.

~”Sdagfd dstr sdar asfwww”~

Logan couldn’t be sure, but the voice sounded… different from the one in his cell. Louder, maybe. More certain. As he was puzzling it out, a third voice broke through.

~”Sdhjew wer djanniss”~

“I am not being selfish—xxc—Merely… Defending my own space.”

~”LKdsjk ssd folks djanniss. Asfdda djanniss.” The response was gentle, solicitous. Though Logan couldn’t understand the words, he edged closer to the door, drawn to the soft voice. Until the Terran spoke again.

“Ugh, and he smells.”

~”Djanniss!”~ Logan ducked behind the upholstered seats when the tall green one scolded the other Terran. He waited for more—a strike, a cry, any sign of his new captors’ correction of the other Terran.

When he heard little more than the red furry one’s cooing, he peeked around one corner.

The creature’s dome-like head was only inches away and again Logan couldn’t help but notice it resemblance to an extinct Terran amphibian. It turned its large green body toward him, keeping one eye directed at the other Terran.

~”Safrtei sadwe?”~ it said, voice trilling up at the end. When Logan didn’t respond, it moved closer and repeated the sounds. ~”Safrtei sadwe? Werpof saf ertw sadwe?”~

After a long moment, it shuddered, bright spirals running up and down its skin. It turned to the other Terran. ~”Sadwe iou.”~

The Terran lifted his head from where he’d settled in the big red one’s arms and scowled down at him. Half his face was hidden in the fluffy red fur but his smirk was unmistakable. ”They think you’re deaf or mute.“ His voice dripped with condescension. “You can speak, can’t you?”

“Of course I can,” Logan snapped, frustration growing. He stood, pointing at his translator. “It’s my ear piece,” he said, voice breaking. “If you—” Hands fisted at his sides, Logan stepped around the sofa.

The room exploded in sound. The red one squeaked, hiding the Terran in his fur and, nattering, the big green frog-like creature reached for Logan, brushing sticky fingers over his outstretched hand.

“If you—” Logan tried again, steps faltering. The floor rushed up to meet him and he fell—right into the waiting palm of the taller green creature.

~

Face smooshed against a rug, Logan woke with bits of fuzz stuck to his chin and lips. He jolted upright then fell back with a grunt against a low, padded wall just as quickly. His pulse throbbed in his ears, a rhythmic crash against his nerves. Moving slower, he pushed up to a seated position and carefully scanned his surroundings.

He'd been changed into a one-piece suit similar to what he could see of the other Terran. Feet clad in thick socks and boots, he smelled… antisceptic. He'd been bathed and—a hand drawn through his much shorter hair confirmed—tangled locks combed or cut away. 

Logan found himself in a much smaller room now, with a Terran-sized bed at one end and a low vid-desk and terminal at the other. The ceiling was low, as well, likely just above his head if he stood. If he stood. Merely looking up caused the spiral patterned walls to swim before his eyes, the dizzying movement reminding him of the moving stripes on his new captor’s skin.

Small sounds wafted to him and, after a few moments, he suspected where he was. Bracing himself on the ledge, he peered over the side. He was in the elevated room he’d spotted when he’d first awoken in the new ship.

Damn.

Now that he was in the space, though, he spotted small hand holds lining the ledge. Perhaps—if he were very careful—he could climb down? Pushing up, he slung one foot over the ledge.

“Oi!” The other Terran's voice voice halted his movement and he froze, one leg still hooked over the edge. “Your food is up there,” he said, looking pointedly at the tall insulated cabinet in one corner of his… box.

From one cell to another, Logan supposed. This one smelled better, at least, like freshly scrubbed air, warm bread and something approximating a berry jam.

“Thank you,” he called back, voice cracking, dry and disused. "I'm… I'm Logan," he said.

"Call me Janus," the other Terran said. "Pleasure."

"Pleasure," Logan repeatedly dumbly. After the first few weeks of attempts to be understood onboard the Keplan ship demonstrated he wasn't merely being ignored, he'd given up trying to speak in more than monosyllabic grunts to his captors. He’d only managed a few words before the big green one had dosed him again. Now the words piled up in his head and his throat, a logjam of thoughts and questions.

Caff would help. It had been years since he'd had more than a stim shot. Sadly, it seemed the fresh environment was letting his imagination run wild, the soothing, spicy scent of tea filling the air. A clinking cup only added to the illusion.

Peering over the ledge, he watched his cellmate—crewmate? What were they here?—take a long draw from a thick-walled cup. Steam billowed off the top as he let out a comically satisfied sigh.

“Is that—“ He cleared his throat, watching the other Terran suppress a flinch at the sudden sound. “Is that tea?”

“Why, yes, it is,” he murmured, hardly bothering to hide a smirk behind his cup as he took a slow sip.

Logan eyed the water and bread and jam he’s been provided. His new captors hadn't included tea with his food. Perhaps it was a privilege to be earned?

“What did you need to do to get it?” he asked, fighting to keep the longing from his voice.

Janus shrugged. “I asked for it. I enjoy it and it keeps me sharp when I help in the conduits.” Back now turned to Logan, he patted a utility belt slung across his back. He winked over his shoulder. “Terran height advantage.”

Licking dry lips, Logan finally stood. The room spun but not as badly as it had when he’d first woken. He stumbled to the cup marked with the universal hazard sign for water and gulped at it. “Do you speak…” He sipped, forcing himself to go slowly when his stomach lurched. “What do they speak?”

“Which one?” Janus drawled, one eyebrow raised still with that blasted half-smile. “Or do all aliens look alike to you?”

“Dammit, you know that’s not what I meant!”

Instead of replying, Janus merely poured himself another cup.

“What about the green one—the smooth green one,” Logan added before he could interrupt.

The other Terran blew across the top of his cup and shrugged. “Don’t you have an earpiece?”

Logan’s shoulders slumped and he picked at the greyish lump of what he supposed was bread. "It's malfunctioning." He sniffed at the loaf. It was soft and warm, bigger than his outstretched hand. Fresh, too, with none of the mold that had covered most of his previous captor's offerings.

With a dollop of the jam the bread was actually quite good. The food settled his stomach and he'd finished half of it before Janus spoke again.

“Pity.”

“You could—" Surprised to find something as mundane, as Terran as a napkin, Logan wiped crumbs from his mouth. "I mean, would you…”

Janus still wouldn’t face him completely, but he straightened at the desperation in Logan’s voice. “Would I…?”

“It would be a favor I’d repay, of course… But… Would you translate that for me? Tell them I can’t understand them? Tell them my device is—”

“Perhaps… If for no other reason than to stop the gibberish you’re sending to my device. Honestly, it’s giving me a headache.”

Logan swallowed back a retort about basic Terran decency and freely sharing skills and nodded. “Thank you,” he muttered. “I would be in your debt.”

“Yes,” Janus smiled. “Yes, you would. I might even—”

A loud clanging outside the larger room drew both their attention and Janus spun around, briefly facing Logan for the first time.

Deep red lines spidered out from his left eye socket, the surrounding skin scarred, stretched tight over his temple and cheekbone. He blinked, left eye milky white.

“Did they—” It was rude to stare, but Logan couldn’t quite tear his eyes away from the scar. It looked… new. “Did they do that to you?”

Janus scowled up at him before his eyes widened and he turned, again hiding his face. “I assume you mean this?” he asked, waving a hand over his left side.

“Well… yes.” Logan had seen worse done at the hands of Collectors.

Janus sucked his teeth. “Of course not,” he spat, stroking a pillow covered in red and green fur. “They would never,” he said, quieter, before staring up at Logan again, giving him a full view of his injuries. “If you must know, it’s a diode burn.”

Logan’s fingers flexed, imagining the tiny diode that would have caused such… precise damage. Far too small for Standard-sized hands to manipulate. His mind supplied the answer just before Janus continued.

“The last stray Terran they’d taken in hadn’t…” Lips pursed, he glared up at Logan. “Hadn’t been housetrained.”

Mouth opening and closing a few times, Logan finally shook his head. No wonder he was so obnoxious. “That’s awful,” he finally said.

Janus’ expression softened—just a bit—but before he spoke, hollow metal clanged again, louder this time. The door swished open. The green furry creature peered inside, fur shifting to reveal several more eyes surrounding the one Logan had seen before.

~”Djanniss! Jkalg asdjl ta lksd as!”~ he said in a rush to Janus before pointing up at Logan on the upper platform. ~”Dsjf?”~

“There’s a coolant leak in the aft crawlspace,” Janus translated, hurrying to the doorway. “If you want to prove yourself worthy of your own tea,” he said. “Now’s the time.”

“Yes! Yes, I want to help!” He nodded, swinging the other leg over the ledge and nodding at the green furry creature.

It turned and crouched low, bringing its monstrous eyes as close to Janus as their heights would allow. ~”Asdl?”~ Logan didn’t know something so large could speak so softly. ~”Djanniss asfdll sdll. Fsadj.”~

Smiling, Janus stroked the creature’s hand. “I’m certain,” he said before glancing up at Logan. “Besides, I know you’ll all have him for dinner like the last one if he tries anything.”

The room shook with the creature’s rhythmic huffing and even as Logan shrank back, it wrapped long, furry fingers around him and plucked him off the ledge. ~”Asd…”~ it said, fur undulating. ~”Lkas asdd asd.”~

Janus laughed as he climbed up onto the creature’s other arm, gripping the fur like rigging lines. “You’re right about that.”

“What?” Logan demanded, holding on tight as the creature strode down the corridor, long legs moving at a near-run. “What did it say?”

“He said"—Janus corrected pointedly—"you're so bony you wouldn’t make more than a mouthful.”

~

Klaxons blared as they moved further aft and in moments the creature stopped at the end of the corridor. A small walkway spanned the doorway and, as they got closer, Logan noticed the doorway was split on one side, a smaller, Terran door hidden within. “That’s our way in,” Janus said, pointing to the tiny control panel. The creature set them down—far more gently than Logan expected—and watched as they pulled on the protective gear hanging just outside the door.

Just before Janus sealed his transparent mask, the creature trilled, all but one eye covered by fur. Janus moved to the edge of their walkway and pulled off one glove. “Done this a million times before, Re,” he said quietly, stroking the creature’s fur. It—he petted Janus back, thousands of strands curling around his hand and arm and shoulder like furry tentacles. A few tugged at the harness straps crossing his abdomen, like they were testing its strength.

~”Gsalk Djanniss,”~ he murmured before stepping back.

“I’m always careful,” Janus winked his good eye at him before hefting up one of the toolboxes.

Logan took the other one and, at Janus’ signal, palmed open the door.

A dull orange cloud rushed out at them and the unmasked creature—Re?—gagged behind them. They hurried inside and Janus slapped the inner panel, closing them in with the noxious coolant. “We have five minutes!” he warned, his mic’ed voice spilling into Logan’s helmet.

Nodding, Logan, scanned the closest pipes, searching for the source of the leak. “There!” he cried, waving one arm to get Janus’ attention and pointing to the far end of the chamber with the other. Dark orange liquid sprayed in the distance, sublimating into a heavy fog after just a few seconds of contact with the ship’s air.

Janus nodded and shot off toward the leak without a word. Hurrying, Logan grabbed his toolkit and followed.

He was fast, ducking between the criss-crossing network of pipes and conduits, sliding between control panels with a practiced ease. Logan struggled to keep up and after just a few seconds, was far behind. "Keep up, Bones," Janus taunted over his mic.

Clamping his toolkit to the front of his safety harness, Logan rushed ahead. Both hands now free, he gripped the higher pipes to launch himself over obstacles, gradually closing the distance between them.

He was nearly in arms reach of Janus when the pipe he gripped vibrated against his palms. “Look out!” he warned, head whipping back and forth, searching for whatever caused the change.

Fog billowed up between them and Logan darted forward, aiming for Janus’ shadowy silhouette. Smoke and steam hissed behind him and he flung himself at Janus’ form, dragging both of them down to the deck. Heat rushed past them, hot enough to be felt through the triple-layer safety suits.

Pressure released, the steam stopped venting as suddenly as it had started. The two Terrans cautiously lifted their heads, eyes lingering on the scorch marks where Janus had been standing.

Gloved hand shaking, Janus smeared the soot left behind. “Don’t think this means you can ask me to share my tea with you,” he said, his low drawl doing little to hide the tremor in his voice. Or his smile.

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” Moving closer, Logan returned his smile. “Besides,” he added, motioning toward the much smaller coolant leak. “We get this fixed and I think I might just get my own.”

"You just might, Bones," Janus chuckled and opened his toolkit. “You just might.”

---

Yes, the title is a Sarah McLaughlin reference and, YES, Janu had absolutely convinced Roman to give him Logan's tea that first morning.

[avaford2009]

This is Asha and The Teens' New Year's Pre-Party!

This is where Asha, Dahlia, Simon, Gabo, Dario, Safi, Hal and Bazeema have fun in New Year's Pre-Party!

Asha prepares the Kadomatsu traditional Japanese decorations, Dahlia makes Kagami Mochi, Hal puts the lanterns on the roof, Bazeema places zabuton cushions, Simon sleeps on Kotatsu table, Gabo prepares Osechi Ryori for Asha, Dahlia, Simon, Gabo, Dario, Safi, Hal and Bazeema, Dario puts kōhaku maku vertical red and white stripes curtains for the entrance, and Safi collects eggs for the chickens!

Would someone do this for my art only?! Please help me!

[mousesquared]

˗ˏˋ┊Gendertheater/Gendertheatre┊´ˎ˗

A gender system related to [x] theaters, [x] stages, [x] acting, &/or the [x] performing arts!

MDP Template (Link immediately downloads!)

ID Template (Replace [color] with colors): Image ID: A 9 horizontally striped flag with the following colors, from top to bottom, being: [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], and [color]. Over the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th stripes there are thin [color] vertical lines. Over the 6th, 7th, and 8th stripes there are thin [color] diagonal lines going down outwards. The 9th stripe is shaped like the back of theater seats. On the left and right side of the flag there are 3 layered shapes that looks like curtains that are the following colors: [color], [color], and [color]. /End ID

Feel free to make your own! (Also feel free to request some from us!) If you make your own, use the tag #gendertheater and tag us!

Tagging: @gender-darling, @radiomogai

[PT: Gendertheater/Gendertheatre. A gender system related to [x] theaters, [x] stages, [x] acting, &/or the [x] performing arts! MDP Template (Link immediately downloads!) (There is a link attached to this text.) ID Template (Replace [color] with colors): Image ID: A 9 horizontally striped flag with the following colors, from top to bottom, being: [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], [color], and [color]. Over the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th stripes there are thin [color] vertical lines. Over the 6th, 7th, and 8th stripes there are thin [color] diagonal lines going down outwards. The 9th stripe is shaped like the back of theater seats. On the left and right side of the flag there are 3 layered shapes that looks like curtains that are the following colors: [color], [color], and [color]. /End ID Feel free to make your own! (Also feel free to request some from us!) If you make your own, use the tag #gendertheater and tag us! Tagging: gender-darling, radiomogai. /End PT]

[sunnytoonsproductions]

Draw Asha and The Teens (Dahlia, Simon, Gabo, Dario, Safi, Hal and Bazeema) in kimonos! For example: Asha, Dahlia, Bazeema and Hal wearing furisode long sleeved kimonos, and Simon, Gabo, Dario and Safi are wearing hakamas!

Asha prepares the Kadomatsu traditional Japanese decorations, Dahlia makes Kagami Mochi, Hal puts the lanterns on the roof, Bazeema places zabuton cushions, Simon sleeps on Kotatsu table, Gabo prepares Osechi Ryori for Asha, Dahlia, Simon, Gabo, Dario, Safi, Hal and Bazeema, Dario puts kōhaku maku vertical red and white stripes curtains for the entrance, and Safi collects eggs for the chickens!

Would someone do this for my art only?! Please help me!

Oh, sure, I can do that tommorow since I'm doing the new sketches of the official profiles for the main cast of the 'back to the SING!' reboot of class of 3000 =^_^=

[theyareweird]

Kianna in Wonderland – Part 4

Card Castle

Kianna stood up from the table. She politely thanked everyone for the tea party before leaving. The Cheshire Cat had quietly vanished from the scene. With the royal couple and Kianna being escorted by the card soldiers, they left the Door Mouse, March Hare and Mad Hatter back at the Hatter's cottage. As the group made their way through the woods, Kianna noticed another Alice's corpse rotting on the ground. This one wasn't decayed down to the bone like the previous body. Instead, this girl appeared fresh with maggots mutilating its crevices. The oder in the air was fowl, causing Kianna to clasp a hand over her nose and mouth. Luckily, she was at least ten feet away from the body and wouldn't be at risk for contracting diseases.

Eventually, the twisted trees of the woods came out of view. A large castle now stood in the distance. Card Castle was a traditional castle, but it was built of cards. The idea was honestly impossible, but the building was there nonetheless and it looked magnificent.

"Welcome to Card Castle". Kaname said.

Upon entering the foyer, Kianna was surprised to see the castle's interior somehow managed to appear as though it was constructed of sturdy walls. Golden chandeliers hung high to light up the space. Black, red and gold furniture were everywhere.

Suddenly, Seiren, Ruka and Zero dispersed. Kianna was now alone with the King and Queen. "We'll give you a tour, Alice". Yuki beamed. From the foyer, the Queen led Kianna into the next room. "Past the entrance hall is the grand dinning room. We have lunch and dinner here. Breakfast is served in our rooms". She happily explained.

The long, rectangular room contained a grand buffet table with many padded chairs lining its perimeter. Beyond that, the left wall was taken up by several  windows, which met the ceiling. The red velvet curtains were drawn to reveal the courtyard outside. There, white rose bushes and various stone fountains decorated the landscape.

"The courtyard can be accessed in another hall. We also have a red rose garden and a hedge maze at the back of the castle". Yuki smiled.

"Your castle is lovely". Kianna commented. She then looked around the environment and asked, "Where is the Cheshire Cat"?

"He probably left to take a nap somewhere. He lives in the castle with us as our cousin. Don't worry, you can visit him later". Kaname reassured.

None of the previous Alices had ever been curious as to the Cheshire Cat's whereabouts. Perhaps this Alice might even be a bit concerned about him. Either way, this level of emotion towards Senri told Kaname she must be the Alice they've been waiting for. With this in mind, it was time for a celebration.

"Tonight, in your honor, we'll be hosting a ball". Kaname announced.

"I'll dress you up, Alice"! Yuki exclaimed.

Kianna froze in place. She was stunned to say the least. Kianna had no idea why the King and Queen were going through this much effort to make her feel welcome, but it was making her flustered.

"I'll leave to allow you both to prepare for the party". Kaname said, kissing Yuki's hand. The king the parted ways and retreated to his own bed chambers.

Meanwhile, Yuki took Kianna to her own bed chambers. The room had been prepared years in advance for the arrival of Senri's future mate, but had never been in use until today. Unfortunately, Kianna didn't have time to take in her current surroundings. She had to dress up for the ball and Yuki was eager to help her prepare.

The dress Yuki laid out of Kianna was certainly extravagant, but not too luxurious. The right side contained a puff sleeve while the left shoulder was held up by straps. A black and white diamond pattern adorned the waist and flared out into a side ruffle layer. Finally, the skirt flared out at the waist, consisting of white and pale blue layers of subtle large flower pattern fabric. Yuki handed Kianna a pair of Marry Jane shoes with vertical black and white striped stockings.

While Kianna sat on the bed, pulling up her stockings, she turned to Yuki, who was holding a pair of Marry Jane shoes for her. "If I could ask, why does everybody call me Alice"? She asked.

Yuki smiled and said "That’s your name".

Kianna frowned at this. 'Alice' wasn't her birth name, nor was it a name she preferred to be addressed by. Regardless, she needed to focus on survival at this point.

Yuki then gawked at Kianna's facial expression. The queen could tell she wasn't happy. "Do you not like your name"?

Kianna's amber eyes widened. If she was going to potentially escape this place with her life, she needed to be on good terms with everyone around her as to not cause suspension or anger anyone to the point they decide to take her life. "Uh, no, I don't hate it". Kianna said, shaking her head. "I'm just surprised everyone knows it".

"Of course we all know it". Zero stated. The knight of spades stood at the entrance to Kianna's bedroom. "We've waited for your arrival for a long time". He mumbled.

"Zero". Yuki smiled.

"Kaname told me to fetch you. It's time for you to return to your bed chambers and get ready". Zero said in a flat tone.

"I see. I'm coming". Yuki said, trotting up to the siver-haired knight. The Queen immediately left Kianna and the knight alone. Before Zero left, he turned to the side and said "One more thing... The King says he's glad you passed the first test".

Kianna was confused. She didn't know what he meant by that. Regardless, the knight walked away before she could question him. Once Kianna was dressed, she left her room to attend the ball, but she had no idea where she was going. At this point, the short girl was nervous. Kianna had never been to a ball before and she didn't want to cause any trouble. Sadly, it was clear she had been transported to a wacky world where it's inhabitants were insane... and immortality corrupt. If the petite girl wasn't careful, she could end up dead. These people had no qualms of killing an innocent person for no reason.

Suddenly, a floatting grin appeared before Kianna. "Where are you going"? The mouth asked.

Kianna recognized the voice. It was the Cheshire Cat. "I'm trying to find my way to the ballroom". Kianna replied.

Senri's full body then appeared in front of Kianna. The cat was currently dressed in a white and pale blue suit with black pants. A black and white diamond tie was tucked under his vest. It was obvious his clothes matched Kianna's attire. "You could go this way". Senri said, pointing to his left. "You could go that way". He continued, pointing to his right. "Or perhaps, you'd prefer to travel up in that direction". Senri said, pointing in the direction of the staircase.

"I don't care how I get to the ballroom". Kianna blurted. "Can you please just tell me how to find my way"? She politely asked.

"Of course, none of them lead you down the right path..." Senri added.

Kianna blinked in response. "Oh". She sighed. Finding her way around the castle was going to be harder than she thought.

"–To me". Senri purred. His tail flicked mischievously. Senri then slid up to Kianna's side and slyly licked his arm with hers.

Surprised: @nunezs-stuff

[crowdsourcedgender]

Alt jestergender flag, requested by a friend based on trick's personal preferences!

[Image ID: Two flags, one with symbol and one without. The flag has 7 vertical stripes that slope away from the center like curtains. The colors (from left to right) are darkish pink, reddish pink, light peach, very light yellow, light green, green, darkish green. In the center is a black clipart jester's hat. The second flag does not have this symbol. /End ID]

[acnhacpcfurnitureguides]

New Horizons/Pocket Camp - Foxy Café Counter DIY Guide (Indoor Furniture)

6 Low simple island counters (Pink)

6 Simple pillars (2 Pink, 4 White)

3 Vertical split curtains (Curtain rod: Brown; Curtain designs: 2 Checkered 1 (left: 2; right: 4), 1 Striped (middle: 4))

2 Dreamy hanging decorations (1 Yellow, 1 Blue)

1 Milkshake

2 Glass jars (1 Fruit syrup, 1 Marshmallows)

1 Songpyeon

[page-2-ids]

[ID 1: A flag with nine vertical stripes; the first and last are twice the width of the others. The colors are darker at the first, third, seventh, and last stripes, and lighter moving away from them. The colors are, from left to right, black, soft indigo, maroon, violet, soft gold, violet, maroon, soft indigo, and black. END ID]

[ID 2: A flag with nine vertical stripes; the first, middle, and last are twice the width of the others. The colors are darker at the first, third, seventh, and last stripes, and lighter moving away from them. The colors are, from left to right, black, soft indigo, maroon, violet, soft gold, violet, maroon, soft indigo, and black. END ID]

Occultarius: A sub-umbrella of Dystrofare for genders related to power, occultism, magic, evil, darkness, non-mental illness caused paranoia, backstabbing, theatrics, abuse of power, etc.

Common themes, connections, and experiences in Occultarius genders include:

- Magic being used for evil, by people in power, for general nefarious reasons, and to keep bad people in power

- Glowing eyes looking out from darkness, the feeling of being watched

- Rituals, spells, magic, curses, hexes, astrology, chanting, general occult stuff

- Backstabbing, worry, paranoia, betrayal

- Velvet curtains, other velvet things, dramatic settings

- Crystals, crystal balls, tarot cards, Lenormand cards, zodiac cards

- Nighttime, darkness, shadows

- Jewelry, gems, jewels, gold, silver

- Riches, money, fame, power, notoriety, abundance, decadence

- Candles, candle circles, candles mysteriously going out

- Sparks, fire

- Blood, blood stains, daggers

- Fighting, arguing, conflict, violence

- Red, orange, yellow

- Purple, indigo, violet

- Dark colors, black, shades of grey

however, Cultaris don’t have to be related to any of these things. Due to this term being inspired by my associations with the songs The Hardest Part is the Night and Shout at the Devil, Occultarius genders do fall under the Bonjender and Cruegender umbrellas, as well as the Dystrofare umbrella, though they don’t have to actually be related to Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, or any of their music or fall under any other umbrellas, unless the coiner wishes.

The colors are inspired by my associations with the vibe of this term

This was for the twenty-ninth day of my coining event! Prompt: Shout At the Devil (Motley Crue) // The Hardest Part Is The Night (Bon Jovi)

Other information, like the related -in-nature term, quality, etc. are under the cut

No suggested pronouns

Taris - Occultarius equivalent of girl/boy

Occul - Occultarius equivalent of man/woman

Cultari - An Occultarius gender

Occultarity - Occultarius gender quality (adjective is Occultarine)

CULIN - Occultarius/Occultarine in nature

-tarius- || -cultarius - Optional Occultarius affixes

[royalty-nobility]

Portrait of King Philip II of Spain

Artist:  Tiziano Vecellio

Genre: Portrait

Depicted People: King Philip II of Spain

Date: circa 1488–1576

Medium: Oil on Canvas

Collection: Cincinnati Art Museum

This portrait of King Philip II of Spain was made around 1550/1551 by the Italian artist Tiziano Vecellio, called Titian, who lived from about 1488 to 1576. It is an oil painting on canvas and was bequeathed to the Cincinnati Art Museum.

Here we have the life-sized portrait of a young king, seated in an armchair turned three-quarters toward the viewer. Behind is a heavy silk curtain decorated with silver embroidery and an open window on the left. His head faces forward, but his eyes look sideways, out at us. He wears a jeweled crown over his short brown hair and is dressed in robes of state that are loosely brushed in and, in some areas, look unfinished. They are white with long, puffed sleeves, decorated with alternating areas of black and white vertical stripes from his shoulder to elbow. Dark fabric is draped over his shoulders and falls to his legs. Philip’s left hand rests on the armrest of an elaborately gilt decorated chair. His right hand holds a scepter that is braced on his right thigh. Hanging over his chest is a large gold chain with a sheep pendant -- the Order of the Golden Fleece.

[pix4japan]

Shinto Shrine after Sunrise during New Year’s Holidays

Location: Shirahama, Shimoda, Shizuoka, Japan Timestamp: 07:30 on January 3, 2024

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter ISO 800 for 1/125 sec. at ƒ/2.0 Film simulation: Astia/Soft

Step into the 2,400-year-history of Ikonahime-no-Mikoto Shrine, commonly known as Shirahama Shrine, where time seems to have left its mark on the weathered tiles and wooden elements of the shrine. As you enter the sacred grounds, the sacred objects lining the walkway to the shrine are a testament of the shrine’s history as it stands as the oldest shrine on the Izu Peninsula. The worship hall the shrine complex is not just a structure; it's a living testament to resilience, having weathered the onslaught of annual tropical storms and salty winds from the nearby Shirahama Beach.

Coming back to the shrine after sunrise, the number of visitors picked up as the vibe transitioned into its New Year's festivities. A focal point is the large grass hoop, the chinowa-kuguri ((茅の輪くぐり), inviting visitors to partake in a ritual where you walk through the hoop three times in a figure-eight fashion, cleansing yourself of impurities and sending prayers for robust health.

As you gaze beyond the chinowa-kuguri, you’ll see that the base of the main worship hall is adorned in a traditional Japanese curtain known as a kohaku-maku ((紅白幕). The red and white vertical stripes are a symbol of happiness. In this ancient pattern, red signifies peace and prosperity, while white represents both spiritual and physical purity.

For those with a keen interest in cultural celebrations, mark your calendars for the shrine’s annual 3-day festival in October. I have provided links to useful sources and map links at my latest pix4japan blog post: https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20240103-shirahama

[stagefoureddiediaz]

Look at me posting a second chapter in less than a week!!!

Here is chapter two of the Buckley siblings time travel fic - we have the introduction of Taylor (don't worry this is the only time we see her!) and the first chapter that earns me the E rating my fic has!

I hope you enjoy and please let me know what you think of regency era Buck - I've been having a blast writing him!

Buck stirred into consciousness, groaning at the light streaming through the window as he flipped himself onto his front and pulled his pillow over his head to shroud himself in darkness once more, cursing the fact he had failed to pull the curtains when he returned to his room last night. He stayed that way for a few minutes, before giving up on being able to get back to sleep and pulling himself from the bed to start his morning ablutions. 

The light blue and gold striped silk suit he had worn the night before lay scattered around the room but Buck paid it no mind as he grabbed a fine linen shirt from the chair in the corner, throwing it over his head as he made his way to his wash stand. The water in the jug was cold, but refreshing as Buck went about washing his face and readying his razor to remove the stubble that had formed overnight, casting its shadow across his lower face and neck. He lathered up his face and set about his shave, losing himself in the methodological motions of scraping the blade across his skin. 

Shaving complete he rinsed the remaining suds from his face and made his way over to his wardrobe, he spent a few moments perusing the contents, before settling on a dark green jacket, matching knee breeches and a waistcoat in the same green with a fawn vertical stripe. Suit selected he collected together the other items he needed - a fresh shirt, stockings, shoes and neck tie, and set about dressing himself for breakfast. He swapped out his dirty shirt for a fresh one and pulled his stockings up his calves, fixing them in place with ribbons tied just below the knees before pulling on his breaches, tucking in his shirt and fixing the fall into place. Next came his shoes before he took up his neck tie and set about fixing it into a simple knot, before fixing his wayward curls and pulling on his waistcoat and fastening the buttons before smoothing it down and reaching for his jacket. Griping the cuffs of his shirt he pulled his arms into the sleeves of the jacket and spent a few moments adjusting his shirt until the cuffs were sitting how he wanted and the jacket felt comfortable. 

He appraised his reflection in the mirror once more and deeming himself satisfactory, made his way over to the dresser to take up his pocket watch and tie pin. Those items secured on his person he made his way out of his bedroom and down the stairs to the breakfast room to face the music for leaving the assembly rooms early the previous night. 

As expected he was met with the unimpressed stares of both his mother and father. Daniel was nowhere to be seen and Buck assumed he was breaking his fast in his bedroom, tired out from expending his energy in attending the ball last evening. Buck perused the sideboard and selected what he wanted for breakfast before taking his seat at one side of the table, his mother at one end, with his father at the head. A servant stepped forward to serve him coffee before withdrawing back to stand next to the sideboard. Buck began to eat his selections while he waited for one of his parents to strike the first blow of their vitriol over his behaviour. 

read the rest of on AO3 here

Tagging a few people who might be interested (if you'd like me to add you to the list, drop me a comment on this post!)

@spotsandsocks @honestlydarkprincess @lovelettertothewise @copyninjabuckley @xxfiction-is-my-realityxx

[costuming-earnest]

All the Women's Clothing Thus Far

I have purchased fabrics! I selected 1895 as my year (for the Sleeves).

I sketched dresses and made my plans! Basically everything is taken directly from a fashionplate/extant garment, or it's via my director's instructions.

Just in case you're needing to scroll through this blog for less than Ten Thousand Years, I'll put a cut here. Details and fashionplates below!

Gwendolin's first outfit will be a light blue satin, almost identical to this fashionplate. With an added uneven hem (from an extant garment) for *drama.* And because I already have a stunning periwinkle satin underskirt that's good in both her outfits.

Gwendolin's second outfit is more like traveling clothes, but still trendy and pretty in a nice solid navy blue. I am excessively devoted to this bodice closure. It fits with the above dress so well, and it's also great for Gwendolin--she doesn't know which direction she's going!

I also love a cape, and capes were popular to go over the giant sleeves. I drew a zigzag hem detail on the overskirt, but I'm not sold on it yet. We'll see. I also think I'll let my actress take off the first bodice and just wear a white shirt underneath. Mostly just the neck ruffle will show.

Cecily's dress is my director's favorite already. She asked me if a tiered skirt was an option. I found a fashionplate from 1898 and an extant garment from a similar time, so why not? I drew a pointed lace neck, but I want it to be rounded now.

Her fabric is an exquisite thick cream-colored satin with big roses woven into it. (Thrift store curtains, and they make me very happy.) Every layer will be finished with pink hem binding, and all the details will be pink!

Lady Bracknell's first outfit is a matter of some consternation. I have a deep mauve satin skirt made by someone in my church. She gave me permission take it down to fit my actress (which is perfect for the gathering in the back!). In the drama supplies, I found a satin shawl (left over from Pride and Prejudice) in the same color with some pretty gold trim. The only problem is that my actress hates it. Well, we told her, Lady Bracknell likes it.

I've paired it with a somewhat brown-er satin for the top. I also am shopping from the same local spot as the last director, so I have more of the same trim available to me! The vertical lines of lace are inspired by many many fashionplates. That main piece of lace, however, is specifically from one photo that I forgot to save. It's one big piece from neck to hem. It's entirely too much, and I love it excessively, and Lady Bracknell would too, I'm sure.

Lady Bracknell's second outfit will basically be a recreation of this, but with long sleeves and in turquoise satin (also formerly curtains) and gold. I am excessively excited.

We decided that she didn't need traveling clothes in the second act. Gwendolin made a decision to go to the countryside. Her mother is chasing her down in a panic. Personally I'm thrilled about the rosettes.

Miss Prism's dress took some deciding. Many versions of the play have put her in working woman's reform dress, or added a vest and tie. We like that, but ultimately we think Jack takes better care of his servants than that. My director sent me a reference photo and a color palette, but I hadn't found a single thing for her yet. So, I went fabric shopping, knowing that the right thing would jump out and bite me.

It did indeed! I found a white fabric with olive green stripes made from leaf shapes. Then on the next rack I found an olive green fabric with white pinstripes. Then on the final rack I found a complimentary deeper green. If it isn't perfect for her! I might put the zigzag hem detail on her dress, but we'll have to see.

I've hit photo limit, so I'll reblog this post to add my fabric photos!

[nkyangiehomes]

Interior Design Tips: Create Your Dream Home with These Simple Ideas

our home is your sanctuary—a reflection of your style, personality, and comfort. With the right interior design tips, you can transform any space into your dream home. Let’s explore some simple yet effective ideas to make your vision a reality.

Understanding Interior Design Basics Balancing Functionality and Aesthetics Great interior design is about finding the sweet spot between beauty and practicality. Your home should look amazing but also serve your daily needs effortlessly.

Importance of Space Planning Before you dive into decorating, plan your space. Measure your rooms, sketch layouts, and consider traffic flow to ensure a cohesive design.

Creating a Focal Point Every room needs a star—a focal point that draws attention. It could be a statement piece of furniture, an accent wall, or a large artwork.

Choosing the Right Color Palette Understanding Color Psychology Colors impact mood and energy. Soft blues and greens promote calmness, while yellows and reds bring warmth and vibrancy.

Selecting Colors for Different Rooms Use calming tones like lavender or beige for bedrooms, energizing hues for kitchens, and inviting neutrals in living rooms.

Using Neutral Tones with Accents Neutrals create a timeless base. Add personality with bold accent pieces like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork.

Enhancing Lighting for a Perfect Ambiance Natural Lighting Tips Maximize natural light with sheer curtains and strategically placed mirrors to reflect sunlight.

Layered Lighting Design Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a dynamic and versatile space.

Selecting the Right Light Fixtures Choose fixtures that complement your room's style—sleek designs for modern spaces and ornate options for traditional rooms.

Furniture Placement and Selection Choosing Multi-Functional Furniture Opt for pieces that serve dual purposes, like a sofa bed or an ottoman with storage, especially for small spaces.

Arranging Furniture for Flow and Comfort Position furniture to encourage conversation and movement, ensuring no piece obstructs pathways.

Scaling Furniture to Room Size Avoid oversized furniture in small rooms and underwhelming pieces in larger spaces for balanced proportions.

Adding Textures and Patterns Incorporating Different Materials Mix wood, metal, glass, and fabric to add depth and interest to your interiors.

Mixing Patterns Tastefully Combine stripes, florals, and geometric patterns in a cohesive color scheme for a polished look.

Using Rugs, Cushions, and Curtains These elements can instantly make a room feel cozier and more inviting.

Maximizing Small Spaces Smart Storage Solutions Invest in furniture with built-in storage or use vertical wall space with shelves and organizers.

Using Mirrors to Expand Space Mirrors create the illusion of a larger room by reflecting light and opening up the space visually.

Selecting Compact and Foldable Furniture Choose sleek furniture designs that fold away when not in use to save space.

Personalizing Your Space Displaying Personal Art and Photos Showcase your favorite memories or artworks to give your home a unique touch.

Incorporating Sentimental Items Add personal items like heirlooms or travel souvenirs to tell your story.

Adding DIY Decor Pieces Craft your own decorations for a truly one-of-a-kind interior.

Keeping Your Design Timeless Investing in Classic Furniture Choose pieces that withstand changing trends, like a well-crafted dining table or leather sofa.

Avoiding Overly Trendy Choices Incorporate trends in small, replaceable items like cushions or wall art.

Updating Accessories Over Time Switch out decorative items periodically to keep your space feeling fresh and current.

Tips for Specific Rooms Designing a Cozy Living Room Layer textures, use warm lighting, and arrange seating for easy interaction to make the space inviting.

Creating a Functional Kitchen Optimize storage, use durable materials, and focus on efficient lighting for a practical yet stylish kitchen.

Transforming the Bedroom into a Retreat Incorporate soft bedding, blackout curtains, and calming colors for a peaceful sanctuary.

Conclusion Interior design doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on these simple tips, you can create a home that’s both beautiful and functional. Take it one step at a time, and soon, your dream home will come to life.

To Known More . . . https://angiehomes.co/blogs/press/create-your-dream-home-with-these-simple-ideas

[krustrebven-09]

Tips to Choose the Right Wall Wrap for Your Space

You’ll be amazed at how much a few pieces of paper can change the look and feel of a space. If you're looking for something that will last longer than paint and be more cost-efficient in the long run, wall wrap is a great choice to add personality to a space or to create smooth and fresh wall spaces that appear to be virtually flawless or help cover uneven surfaces and minor wall defects. 

This blog will help you with how to choose wallpaper for different spaces of your home and how to measure the wall for wallpapers.

How to Choose Wall Wrap?

To choose good wallpaper for your walls, first understand some things about the room:

Room Size: Is the room big or small? For small rooms, choose simple patterns without many colors. Large patterns will make small rooms look crowded. Big rooms can have bold, colorful patterns.

Light in the Room: Does light come into the room easily, or is it usually dark? Bright rooms look nice with light colors like light blue, green, and yellow. These colors make the room look bigger. Dark rooms require deep colors or patterns with white accents to help bring in light. Metalic colors like gold or silver also work well.

Colors that go together: If some things in your room, like the floor, curtains, or furniture, already have certain colors, pick a wallpaper with colors that match nicely. This will make all the colors look good together.

Easy Maintenance: When choosing a wall wrap, it is important to pick one that is easy to maintain. This is because wallpaper for walls lasts for many years if we take proper care. Some points to consider for easy maintenance are cleaning, material durability, and low exposure to substances like heat and oil.

Suitable Wall Wraps for Different Spaces

For the Home Office

Are you easily distractible? Fidgety? Often interrupted? Working at home has plenty of advantages. Get in the zone with a home office design that puts your mind at ease. Choose relaxing colors, straight lines, and clean surfaces to erase all the day’s diversions. Delicate neutrals like these vertical stripes are distraction-proof while still adding interest to your room.

Wall Wrap for the Living Room

The living room is where the family spends most of their waking hours at home, so the wall wrap you choose will be the backdrop for all your family photos and memories. Decorating this room involves some major decisions.

First, you need to decide your level of formality. Is your living room for you, or is it for your guests? Do you want a neutral room to last a lifetime, or do you want to use the living room to showcase the best parts of your family’s personality and tastes?

Next, consider durability. Do you have rough and tumble kids, or is your household tidy and reserved? Vinyl wall wrap is washable, so they are probably your best options if there’s a potential for crayon wall art. For a home full of adults, the living room can be a great place for luxurious specialty wallpapers.

Wallpaper for the Dining Room

The dining room is your home’s showcase. It’s the hosting hub, the center for your finest furnishings, and the heart of your decorating style. No matter your taste, the dining room should always have elegance. 

Whether you love hosting swanky dinner parties or if the dining room is just the place where you eat reheated pizza, sophisticated wallpaper is the perfect way to elevate the room.

Wall Wrap for the Bedroom

This may seem like a major commitment, but the most important part of choosing bedroom wallpaper is to make sure it is in line with your personality. The bedroom is private—a restful sanctuary away from the rest of the house—and designing this room should align with your personality. 

“Whatever your taste, there is something that everyone loves, from traditional flora and fauna to contemporary geometric and tropical patterns or animal motifs and architectural designs,” says Homes and Gardens. We couldn’t agree more!

Conclusion

Themes, colors, and design play a crucial role in determining the vibe of a room. The right wall wraps can truly enhance the character of your space. One of the great features of wraps is that they come in various prints and designs, and you can even create a custom design to suit your needs. 

If you want to give your space a pleasant and unique touch, you can contact Columbus Car Wrap. Whether it's for your home or office, they can help you achieve the perfect look! Visit their website to learn more about their services.

Website : http://columbuscarwrap.com

Email:  info@columbuscarwrap.com 

Phone: +1-6144840885