#victor: @lys-lilac

[heartwithavacancy]

Per @trixxiephantomhive I’mma do this. Challenge mode only AO3 and Public works.  Rules: Pick any 10 of your fics, scroll somewhere to the midpoint, pick a line (or a few), and share it! Then tag people!  IDK who to tag. 

Lost & Found | Miraculous Ladybug | WC :1548 | Gen.

Gathering up his resolve and bracing himself for possibly needing to flee, he’s moving to the crates and peering into them. At first, he doesn’t see anything so he has to reassess this plan, the alley is too dim. After a moment he’s taking his phone from his pocket and turning on the flashlight function and crouching own. That’s when blue eyes finally see the tiny creature and his heart gives a painful little lurch. “What heartless son of a- Come here, baby, I got you. Don’t worry.” 

Flares Over Paris | Miraculous Ladybug (AU/PV)| WC: 4295 | Explicit |BriLix

“You can’t be…” That hardwired thought sparks and fragile hope shoves hard against what he knows - what he’s been told; what was drilled into his very bones. “She… died.” It’s a strained whisper, distress making itself known in his voice.

Bridgette’s hands rest on his chest and she’s taking in a sharp breath, brushing tears from her eyes she’s shaking her head. “Did He tell you that? Guess what, he’s a lying liar - surprise, surprise.” Her fingers reach and she’s taking hold of the zipper on his suit, tugging it down. A simple thought to Tikki and she’s taking off a glove and pressing her warm bare hand to his bare chest.

“Does this feel like the hand of a dead girl, Felix?”

Then she’s shifting leaning forward kissing along his jaw. “Or this?” Her lips trail along his neck slowly - gently.Felix takes in a broken breath, that touch to his chest is perfect. It’s warm and comforting somehow in a way he hasn’t felt in years. Bridgette always made him feel warm, soft… Bridgette had been the only one to make him feel that way the only person to push beyond the walls he’d built up.

In Colors | Yuri!!!! on Ice (Soulmate AU) | WC:1298 | Gen/Soft | Victor/Yuuri

Victor was not one of these people. He had always wanted to find his soulmate. Always. Ever since his days as a child, basking in his parents love; seeing the pink glow that his mother left upon his father’s skin when she took his hand and pulled him up into a joyful dance. Or when they embraced him or  kissed his forehead at night; lilac mixing with rose - the colors rare among the populace but they were so very soothing to young Victor.  Victor wanted that. He wanted exactly this and he would shake every had he had to to find it. Yuuri never really wanted to find his other half. He had enough trouble as just himself and his anxiety was a vicious thing; feeding into his fear that he wasn’t ever going to be good enough or good for anyone. He was just this side of a little chubby, horribly insecure with a bad self-esteem and image… No one wanted someone like him for a soulmate. So he donned gloves, black leather gloves for when he was out about in public.  It was for the best even if he did want someone to have that kind of connection with..

Memories Paint These Walls | BBC!Sherlock/Lucifer (Crossover/AU) | WC: 3721 | Gen | Myc/Greg, Lucifer/Charlie, implied Johnlock

Greg nodded swallowing. If this was true then why was it so hard for Mr. Holmes to accept that Mycroft was with someone like him? Granted, he wasn’t much of anything special, nothing remarkable but… “You’re saying they were lovers. They cared for one another.” “Yes, and again yes, deeply. Lucifer was devastated when he thought that Charlie had died. It seems that he like you had an uncanny ability to survive things that would kill men with less luck than you. Life goes on but they kept in touch; separate lives but another with each other.” He rather wished he was that brave, to have had a life like Lucifer, to have fought for them. “Again this isn’t why we’re here – well not the sole reason.”

I Celebrate You | BBC!Sherlock | WC: 1804| Gen| Myc/Greg 

The door opened only to close. He wasn’t sure who or what to expect given this day. “I hope you don’t mind a bit of company.” The voice that came was not the usher but the voice was much deeper and one he was far too familiar with. He glanced over his shoulder to find Gregory standing there, dressed in a tailored suit; a bit more formal than his usual attire; holding a box of chocolates and wearing a smile. His heart did a strange thing, a flip and twisting flop, slamming against the cage of his chest. Oh dear god.

Maybe Something New | Miraculous Ladybug | WC: 1137 | Gen | Felinette

Marinette Dupain-Cheng was a lightweight. That was the first thing Féllix learned after their third event date.

Another Song | Miraculous Ladybug | WC: 1225 | Gen | Lukathaniel

“Oh, definitely. To be honest, I thought if anyone stood a chance to break Adrien’s hold on her it’d be you. You’re a total package and I just don’t get what she sees in Adien that you don’t have to be totally frank. I mean Marinette’s not shallow or anything like that - I know that but I just don’t get the appeal. He’s arguably handsome, polite, thoughtful but yeah you’re definitely all those things - plus you don’t come with the baggage that is control freak Gabriel Agreste.”

Distracted Vendue | Miraculous Ladybug | WC: 2220 | Gen | Felinette

The instant green eyes fixed on the now-familiar face of the ever enchanting Marinette Dupain-Cheng he knew he had to win the evening with her. Even if they just spent it here tonight dancing, drinking, nibbling food the servers brought out - he wanted that time with her. He'd send her a few times since the video incident, a couple dozen of those in person, three of those as Ladybug.

To her, he wasn't Felix Graham de Vanily; admittedly his first impression on her hadn't been a good one but eventually, they smoothed things out and she'd become something of a friend... perhaps more. He certainly hoped one day it might be more but he wouldn't force the issue, unlike someone.

But truthfully he just wanted more time with her, no matter the confines of it or how they spent it. 

We Were Gods | Miraculous Ladybug (Human Kwami AU) | WC: 2808| Gen | Plikki

Plagg is shifting back to normal, staring at her. Of course, he should have known. Her powers, he’d seen them first hand to a small degree back when they were wilder and beyond her control. It takes a minute for it all to click then he’s moving closer to her.

“Tikki.”

His whisper of her name makes her jump like a door slam. Tikki is peering up at him in shock. “Please, don’t come any closer. I don’t - I don’t want to hurt you. I just wanted to bring you a gift. That’s all. I - I'll stop if you want me to.” She’s shaking, taking rapid steps back for every step he takes toward her.

Strange and Familiar | Miraculous Ladybug (PV/AU/GenderSwapped!Bridgette) | WC:2294 | Gen | FelBrett 

The stranger seems to go on alert the instant LB arrives and turns glancing over his shoulder. “That’s my cue.”

The spotted hero shakes his head, swinging onto the stage. “No. Stay.” It comes out as a sharp demand and the stranger bristles so Brett softens it with - “Please.”

Choices We Make in the End | Miraculous Ladybug {Pirate AU} |WC:1856 | Gen | Past and  currently onesided FeLuka

A sure sign of internal injuries. Now that he’s closer yes, there’s blood under the hand on his abdomen and Luka’s breathing is starting to rattle. The scent in the air around the pirate isn’t just blood - it’s death. Felix knew that smell far better than he would have liked to. And there isn’t anything that anyone can do - well nothing that anyone but Felix could do.

“There’s my favorite pirate. You’ve gotten yourself in a real mess this time.”

Felix is moving and with a gentleness that Felix reserved for those he truly cared for, he eased Luka up from his positing and gathered him carefully against himself. He doesn’t care about his clothes becoming bloodied. He doesn’t care about anything more than bringing Luka as close as he can. If he’s going to do this...

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Shaw’s Staying at Home Date

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 居家之约, which has not been released in EN! 🍒

[ Released on 1 November 2021 ]

On an idle weekend, Shaw and I make plans to spend it together at home.

While waiting for him, I play the disc that he lent to me on TV - a documentary of a punk band’s tour.

The moment I plop myself down on the sofa, a series of sounds drift from beside me.

MC: ...Spicy Stick! No biting the sofa!

[Note] In CN, the dog’s name is “辣条” (là tiáo), which is a popular Chinese snack made of wheat flour and chili :>

Just as it’s about to take a bite out of the sofa, I exclaim at the teddy bear dog. It has already torn apart two pairs of slippers, a charging wire, and a cosmetic compact.

Spicy Stick is a Shichon puppy that a friend had left in my care before heading on a business trip.

As it is currently undergoing its teething phase, its main goal is to learn about the world with its mouth.

Spicy Stick gives me an indifferent glance, and has no intention of jumping off the sofa.

A nameless anger rises in my heart. Just as I’m about to assert my power, my phone suddenly rings.

Shaw: Hey, I’m downstairs. I think the lift’s broken, so I’m taking the stairs.

MC: So soon?

While speaking, I brisk walk to the door and open it. Seeing this, Spicy Stick follows me in an instant.

MC: Oh yes. Shaw, did you bring the collar?

Shaw: I did. Your friend’s dog is pretty capable - it even tore its own collar.

On the other end of the line, Shaw sounds as though he’s about to continue with his complaints. However, he suddenly pauses, his tone switching to a more light-hearted one.

Shaw: You’re watching the disc I lent you?

I glance at the TV. The vocalist of the band is in a jacket, swaying his body along with the melody.

MC: Mm. You could tell?

Shaw: Of course. I’ve watched it so many times. What about you? How do you find it?

MC: I think... aside from having a better understanding of the band, I’ve also added a huge pile of hidden treasures into my playlist~

I find myself smiling as I stare at the entrance of the stairway, able to hear footsteps drawing closer.

Shaw: Oh? Looks like aside from being attracted by their accessories and hairstyles, you’ve gained some other things.

MC: How did you know that I like their hairstyles?

Shaw: Haven’t you been posting pictures of them in your Moments every day? Or has your memory deteriorated after doing so much overtime work recently?

Just as I’m about to retort, something occurs to me. My eyes crinkle into a smile.

MC: Looks like Busy Bee Shaw has been paying close attention to me! You’re able to remember every single one of my posts so clearly.

I deliberately use an exaggerated tone, adding emphasis to my words. I don’t receive a response from the other end, and can only hear the sound of breathing as he steps on the staircase.

After a while, Shaw’s voice returns. This time, it’s much clearer.

Shaw: Tsk. So what?

I turn my face to the side. Shaw is standing at the entrance of the stairway, a pair of eyes looking frankly and directly at me.

He climbs up the stairs in a few strides. Walking over, he hands me a plain-looking paper bag.

Shaw: Here. Collar.

My heart stirs slightly. Just as I'm about to take the bag, a shadow suddenly barges into my field of vision.

??: Woof! Woof!

Accompanying two energetic barks, Spicy Stick emerges out of nowhere, lunging straight at Shaw.

Shaw’s eyes widen slightly, astonishment flashing across his face.

Although Sichons are petite, they are very strong in combat.

After Shaw enters my house, Spicy Stick remains splayed at his feet, growling loudly at him. It seems to have deemed Shaw as an “intruder” in this territory.

Shaw: Little chap, you’re pretty friendly.

Shaw: To think that I personally made a collar for you.

Shaw arches his brows slightly, retrieving a riveted collar from the paper bag. He wobbles it in front of Spicy Stick.

MC: You made it yourself?

A little surprised, I take the collar from his hand. I notice that the rivets are made from a special material and are soft to the touch. Also, the workmanship is incredibly meticulous.

MC: It looks pretty unique.

Shaw: Of course it is.

Shaw responds without a trace of humility. He removes his jacket, placing it casually on the sofa.

Shaw: This teddy bear dog has such a unique name, so it needs a unique collar too. When it heads out with this collar next time, it’d definitely not bump into another dog with the same design.

Even so, Spicy Stick doesn’t buy Shaw’s goodwill. It continues barking at him loudly and fearlessly.

MC: Spicy Stick, be a little quieter.

Spicy Stick: Woof woof!

MC: ...

Shaw: I didn’t expect it to listen to you this obediently.

Shaw tosses me a somewhat gloating glance.

Clearing my throat in embarrassment, I attempt to control the restless Spicy Stick.

During this difficult time, Spicy Stick grabs Shaw’s jacket in its mouth. Something seems to fall onto the ground, releasing an abrupt and crisp sound.

Following the sound, I spot a silver accessory falling out of the pocket. Before I can get a more precise look, Shaw quickly picks it up.

I look up at Shaw, only to see his slightly displeased expression.

MC: What’s that?

Shaw: Nothing much.

With this, Shaw frowns slightly. His face grows solemn, and he takes steps towards Spicy Stick.

Shaw: You aren’t going to stop, are you?

With Shaw’s jacket in its mouth, Spicy Stick slowly retreats to a corner of the room.

Their humongous height difference causes Spicy Stick’s earlier haughtiness and pride to dissipate. It blinks, lifting its head to look at Shaw.

Spicy Stick: Woo...

Worried that Shaw’s genuinely angry, I hurry over. Squatting down, I tap Spicy Stick on the nose.

MC: Spicy Stick, don’t be so fierce. This Big Brother isn’t an outsider. Got it? Be good, and give the jacket to me.

My appearance probably makes Spicy Stick think that the danger has been eliminated. It flits its eyes, obediently loosening its grip. Then, it licks its paw leisurely.

Lifting my hand, I hand the jacket back to Shaw.

MC: All right, don’t be mad at it.

Shaw: Hmph...

Shaw’s eyes flash slightly, as though he wants to say something. In the end, he simply releases a soft “tsk”.

Taking the jacket, he squats down like me. Then, he arches his brows lazily.

Shaw: Just saying it isn't effective.

He stares at Spicy Stick, a dangerous aura brewing in his gaze.

Shaw: It needs to learn from this experience.

-

Scattered bits of sunlight filter in through crevices of the curtains. They fall on the ends of Shaw’s hair, coating him with a soft layer of gentle light.

The documentary playing on TV has been paused. I’m lying on my stomach on the carpet, watching as Shaw draws various images on coloured cards - fire, food bowl, clothes, and other things.

MC: ...why are you drawing these things?

Shaw: You’ll know in a while.

Once he’s done with the final stroke, he covers the coloured pencil with a cap and places it at the side. Then, he takes out the dog food he’s prepared, tapping on the carpet gently.

Shaw: Spicy Stick, come here.

Hearing someone calling it, Spicy Stick comes over curiously. Lowering its head, it sniffs the cards.

Shaw: Look carefully. This is raw meat. It’s the food you eat every day. You can touch it however you want.

Shaw pauses for a moment, then takes out a few other cards.

Shaw: These are clothes. This is fire... For the sake of humanity and your own life, it’s best for you to control your exuberant curiosity when you see them, and keep your paws to yourself.

Shaw props his face up with a hand, tilting his head to look at Spicy Stick.

Shaw: If you understand this, put your paw here. I’ll give you a reward.

While saying this, he sways the snack in his hand, the other hand lightly tapping on the props he had found in my board games.

It’s rare to see Shaw being this serious. Finding this novel, I look him up and down.

But Spicy Stick turns a deaf ear to Shaw’s words.

With its round eyes, it stares at Shaw.

In the short silence, I’m suddenly struck with an idea. I lift Spicy Stick up, my hand on its bell.

“Ding...” 

The crisp sound echoes in the room. With a sly smile, I hide behind Spicy Stick.

Pinching my throat, I pretend to speak like Spicy Stick -

MC: I’ve already recognised all these cards. Next time, I’ll definitely obey instructions!

Shaw is taken aback momentarily, clearly not expecting me to do this.

I can’t help but chuckle inwardly while blinking at him with even more force.

MC: Earlier, I shouldn’t have taken your jacket away. I’ll do my best to correct my ways, and strive to become an obedient and sensible puppy. Please forgive me this time~

After saying this, I couple my words with an incredibly innocent gaze, staring directly at Shaw.

In my arms, Spicy Stick yawns at this appropriate moment.

Shaw and MC: ...

After a moment of silence, Shaw averts his gaze unnaturally, bursting into a nonchalant chuckle.

Shaw: Come to think of it, the both of you are pretty similar.

MC: What?

Shaw: Make a guess.

MC: ...you share more similarities with it! Doing whatever you like!

Spicy Stick: Woof!

Spicy Stick barks, as though agreeing with me. Probably finding this too boring, it suddenly breaks free from my arms, running off to play.

Shaw casts a sweeping glance at its happy rear view, pursing his lips.

Although Shaw isn’t facing me, I’m able to see that the corners of his lips have curled upwards.

Just as the smile on my face broadens, a series of noises draw our attention.

Shaw: ...tsk. It truly causes others to worry.

Shaw looks at the “incorrigible” Spicy Stick, his brows knitted together.

At some point, Spicy Stick has once again run over to Shaw’s jacket, taking the silver accessory from his pocket with its mouth.

This time, I finally get a clear glimpse of the accessory - it’s a necklace with a signet ring for a pendant. A lightning design is engraved on it.

Shaw is clearly exasperated.

Shaw: Be good. Let it go.

He carries Spicy Stick, carefully retrieving the necklace from its mouth before using his hand to wipe the area it had bit.

MC: Is this your necklace?

I look at Shaw with slight curiosity.

Based on my memory, he has tons of accessories. Each time we meet, he seems to don different accessories.

It’s rare to see him being so concerned about one particular accessory.

Shaw: Not exactly.

Shaw responds calmly. A certain emotion flashes across his face, as though he’s vexed over the idea of disclosing something in advance.

After a short while, Shaw looks up, staring fixedly at me.

Shaw: I was going to give it to you later. Since you’ve already seen it, I’ll do it now.

I blink, feeling a little surprised as I study the necklace in my hand.

MC: ...it’s for me?

Shaw: What’s with that expression? Is it that surprising?

Shaw arches an eyebrow, looking at me with slight displeasure.

I nod truthfully.

MC: After all, the things you gave me before were mostly...

I deliberate on my choice of words. Watching as Shaw’s brows arch even further, I immediately continue.

MC: Unique.

Shaw’s expression finally relaxes a little.

Shaw: Is that so. This is very unique too.

He points at the necklace in my hand, his tone light-hearted.

Shaw: Aside from being a necklace, this pendant can be removed and worn on the finger.

Shaw pauses, then chuckles.

Shaw: Forget it. I’m afraid you’re too stupid, so I’ll demonstrate it once for you.

He takes the necklace from me. After removing the pendant, he lifts my hand.

MC: I’m not stupid...

I grumble softly. Shaw simply chuckles, and doesn’t respond.

Strands of hair brush my chin lightly, bringing with it a refreshing scent of shampoo. Shaw lowers his head, a rare serious expression on his face.

Warm breaths sweep the spaces between my fingers, levelling out the slightly cool sensation of his fingers.

Seeing his face, which is close enough to touch, I find myself softening my own breathing. My gaze slowly sweeps across his eyes, his nose, his lips...

Shaw: Here, like this.

Shaw’s voice brings me back to my senses. My face flushes, and I pretend to be calm as I avert my gaze.

MC: [blushing] ...I’ll have a look.

Lowering my head, I see that the signet-style ring has already landed steadily onto my palm.

I scrutinise it carefully. Along with my movements, light reminiscent of flowing water glides across the lightning design engraved on it.

Shaw: How is it?

He stares at me, an almost indiscernible nervousness flashing in his eyes.

The corners of my lips curl upwards, forming a broad grin coming straight from my heart.

MC: It’s so pretty.

Shaw chuckles softly, his brows relaxing gently.

MC: Why did you suddenly think of giving me this?

I look up, meeting Shaw’s line of sight. His gaze stirs slightly, but he responds indifferently.

Shaw: Don’t you find these punk-style accessories cool? So I randomly bought one.

MC: I see...

I nod. Although I don’t say much, a layer of warmth surges from the depths of my heart.

It turns out that he remembers all these seemingly trivial and ordinary details.

As though seeing through my thoughts, Shaw’s lips curl upwards.

Shaw: If you feel like smiling, there’s no need to control it.

MC: Who says I’m controlling it?

I turn to face him, the corners of my lips arched high.

MC: Aren’t I smiling?

Loving it so much that I’m unwilling to put it down, I flip the accessory around in my hand. It emits a beautiful lustre, and seems to have undergone meticulous polishing.

After studying it carefully, I don’t find any brand logo.

MC: Is this necklace handmade?

Shaw: ...you could say that.

The glint in Shaw’s eyes flashes. From his 0.01 second pause, I detect something odd.

All of a sudden, something occurs to me. My gaze flits over to the riveted collar on the drawer at the entrance.

Shaw (flashback): Little chap, you’re pretty friendly. To think that I personally made a collar for you.

A thought suddenly emerges from my heart...

MC: Shaw, did you...

Shaw: Stop. No questions allowed. Just keep it. You can mull over the rest yourself.

Shaw interrupts my words.

I pout unhappily. Just as I’m about to retort, music drifts over to my ears -

“I’m all over my heart’s desire, I feel cold but I’m back in the fire...”

Turning towards the sound, I realise that the tour documentary on TV which was paused earlier has resumed.

And the perpetrator, Spicy Stick, is currently pawing at the remote, staring fixedly at the screen.

MC: Pfft. Looks like watching the documentary with me over the past two days has made Spicy Stick like rock music.

Storing the necklace carefully, I pat my legs before calling out to Spicy Stick.

MC: Spicy Stick, come here!

Spicy Stick tilts its head to look at me before walking over.

MC: Very obedient... hm...?

Just as Spicy Stick is about to lunge itself into my arms, its line of sight seems to be drawn to something. It suddenly changes its mind, both eyes glistening as it turns to the side.

Shaw: Mm... very obedient.

Shaw swings dog food in his hand, glancing at me with pride.

MC: [angry] ...Spicy Stick! You were bought over so easily with snacks?

With bitterness in my heart, I watch Spicy Stick’s gradually retreating form. I didn’t expect our two days of bonding to be no match for a bag of treats.

Shaw: As someone in the media industry, why are your words so inaccurate? It’s clearly a case where an afternoon of interaction has caused the both of us to cultivate a bond. Right, Spicy Stick?

[Note] There’s a writing mistake here since MC didn’t voice out her thoughts LOL

Shaw carries Spicy Stick with both hands, placing it on his lap.

Shaw: Mm, you do have a conscience. I’ll write off what happened earlier.

With an upward curl of his lips, his slender and long fingers stroke Spicy Stick’s back.

Meanwhile, Spicy Stick narrows its eyes comfortably, eating the snacks Shaw feeds to it in a leisurely manner.

Looking at this “quiet and beautiful” scene, I find myself fuming. Although I’m upset at this “snobbish��� teddy bear dog...

Seeing the both of them finally interacting amicably, I can’t help but heave a secret sigh of relief.

MC: ...forget it. From a certain standpoint, this is also a good thing.

I mutter softly. Then, I shift a little closer to them, leaning against the sofa.

Shaw: [chuckles] ...

A nonchalant, soft chuckle lands on my ear. Immediately after, a warm palm is placed on the back of my hand.

I’m taken aback momentarily, feeling my heart rate accelerate slightly.

From my peripheral vision, I sneak a peek at the person next to me. He’s currently watching the TV, a faint smile hooking the corners of his lips upwards.

Outside the window, the brilliant gold sunlight from before has turned into a warm orange. It filters through the windows, spilling onto the carpet.

With a gentle blink, I return the grip of that hand.

In the tranquil room, time seems to be drawn out.

A lively melody flows in the air. On the TV screen, the band is performing a song that I happen to be familiar with, and I find myself humming along softly...

“I'm all over my heart’s desire...”

“I feel love in the shock of the lightning...”

“I fall into the blinding light. Come in, come out, come in, come out tonight...”

The grip on my hand tightens. The person beside me chuckles softly, and my cheeks subconsciously grow a little warmer.

Just as I’m about to guess that I sang off-key, Shaw makes a simple assessment -

Shaw: Mm, not bad. You didn’t go off-key this time.

My eyes crinkle into a smile. Feeling somewhat proud of myself, I speak up.

MC: Of course~ I’ve heard it so many times, and really like this song.

Shaw: Is that so? ...that’s true, it does sound like a style you’d like.

Shaw chuckles. While watching the TV, his gaze seems to drift far away.

Shaw: In the past, I wasn’t really interested in this song because I didn’t think the band was good at this style. But now that I’m listening to it, I feel differently.

MC: How do you feel about it? 

I turn to look at Shaw. He strokes Spicy Stick’s head, then chuckles softly.

Shaw: I like it, of course.

🌶️  Call and Moments: here

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[o0o0thorn0o0o]

OCs a friend and I made together years ago. Wasn’t planning on posting these originally, but I haven’t posted in a while either. Even though this is an art blog, it feels weird posting non-AC content, haha. But yeah—just been drawing OCs and ponies this week. Next post, we’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming.

Names, in order, because I suppose I should include ‘em :

Lila Barlow, Matthias Taylor, Velvet Taylor, Jacques Belmont

Victor Rosewood, Aaron Daughtler,

Andromeda Vespertice, Margo Abram

Does Victor Rosewood sound familiar? Haha, that’s ‘cause my friend and I decided to add in some self-inserts as a joke, twisting our pseudonyms from this one club I had (hers is Jacques Belmont, from Jack Bell). But then they became real characters, and though they still technically are self-inserts, I’d call them more so self-inspired. They are very much their own characters, yup, yup. Dunno if I should say more, but I guess that’s all I’ll say at the moment.

[perhaps-in-anotherdream]

hi! i saw your recent ask, do you know where victor’s novelty date can be read? thank u so much 🧡💝❣️💚💛💖🖤💙💜💞💕♥️

Hello! (´ ∀｀) Yes, the lovely @lys-lilac has done a translation of it, here: ♡!

—

[idleheart]

I Never Liked You

notes: excuse me, i’m new in town and it gets worse!! so have some ren pre-relationship angst-fluff bc this rabbit hole has claimed me.  rating: we’re starting out at the very most mature. it’s extremely tame but there are some, ahem, compromising positions. pairing: ren jinguji / reader word count: 2,173

He wants long love letters, but he doesn’t think you love him.

Ren’s mind wanders between the hardwood floor of your apartment and the softness of your chest. Even there, somewhere safe with your weight above him, he isn’t sure. You lean forward, all body and bossy in tone. You take up his wrists, thin but not delicate and you push them against the edge of the carpet.

Skin on his has never felt like this, completely absent of any sort of spark or light. But if you were to release him, he knows he’d stay in the same place. He’d wait for you to hold him down again, numbly aware that to be in your arms is better than the alternative.

It’s real for him, at least. This lacks the day-glo warmth of televised love, loved scraped down and condensed to a few easy words. He’s usually so good with words. But you are so close, hovering above him like an angel. 

So close, you’re so close. Just a little closer---

“I win again,” you give a laugh, a sweet-sounding laugh before he’s let go. There’s nowhere further to fall, but Ren feels the ground give out under him all the same. You pop up, your hair falling around your shoulders. Triumph is in your smile. You have no idea how he feels, surely.

He rights his expression before you can get a good look at him. He’s in mourning for a moment, all wrapped up in the arch of your grin and missing your pleasant weight.

“I just wanted to see you smile,” he retorts, “you’re cute when you win.”

“Oh, I’m sure it was for your benefit,” you tease, leaning into the melodramatic lie he easily weaves. 

But you don’t lean into him. You give him space, retreating from the familiar press of bodies. You shift, leaning all your weight on your right knee and moving until the heat of your thighs against his are just a memory.

You sit in a heap on the floor next to him, still laughing under your breath.

“Good fight,” you congratulate him. You hold out your hand, offering it the way a gracious victor should always offer peace.

After some hesitation, a question of if he truly wants to damn himself a second time, Ren takes it. It’s the wrong choice, it has to be. There is no spark, just as before, but the rightness of touching you is clear.

Why do anything else, he wonders as he sits up. His hair falls in his eyes and you’re drawn to him almost out of instinct.

“May I?” you ask, gesturing to the side of his beautiful face. He smiles, nods as casually as he can manage and tries not to flinch when your fingers brush his cheek. 

You ask near-every time before laying a hand on him. You find ways to make his stomach sink and cheeks burn. But for all his years of experience doing the same, having the direction suddenly changed is odd. The drop of his heart from his ribcage borders on unpleasant.

Ren looks at you, really looks as best he can without alerting that something’s wrong. What do you see when you stare back? Undoubtedly a pretty face, with eyes beautiful enough to fall into. But would you? Have you? Fallen, that is. Once, he thought he could tell for certain. Now, it isn’t so.

“Your hands are cold,” he exclaims, if only so you’ll stop touching somewhere that nearly aches for this kind of unexpected intimacy. Even if it’s difficult, too near to what he’s always wanted, he doesn’t want to upset you by brushing it off. 

So he takes your hand back in his, his palm swallowing yours. You give his fingers a gentle squeeze, looking worried all of a sudden.

“Wait, really?” you start. You put your other hand to your cheek, feeling your temperature. “I think I’m a little warm, actually.”

There’s a beat, before you see the smile curling up at the corner of his mouth. With a huff, you tug your hand from Ren’s.

“You’re such a liar, I wasn’t even a little bit cold,” you snap, but there’s no bite in your voice. His smile only grows wider, more than happy to return to playful banter. It’s his area of expertise.

“Today just isn’t your day, you keep letting your guard down,” he replies. There’s a sing-song quality to his voice, he doesn’t want to consider whether it’ll work to mask the fresh lie.

“You just wanted to hold my hand,” you mutter, “even after I won, fair and square.”

“You didn’t win honourably,” he retorts, making your eyes snap to him. The fire Ren sees is so warm, closer to what he’s used to from women and yet still markedly different. Hot passion is one thing, he knows it well.

But the way you look, bubbling on the edge of annoyance and put-out is something else entirely. He’s too afraid to name it love, to hope that you might want this forever. He does, he thinks, as he pictures what will happen when this half-argument half-joke is resolved.

The two of you will sit on your couch, channel surfing and retelling old stories from childhood. You’ll surprise him by laughing at his jokes, or leaning over to ask about how the trip to the mechanic went. You remember these things, the things that are the most precious to him. But still, he is in no rush to call it loving acts.

Love is splendid, but it grows cold too soon.

“I did so!” you exclaim. He tuts, shaking his head.

“You disarmed me with your beauty, that’s hardly fair,” he replies. You clearly dislike his tone, it makes you cock your head to the side.

He fails to notice the way you stiffen up, Ren’s admittedly distracted by your hair falling over your bare neck. You’re even beautiful when annoyed with him. In your own uncomplicated way, you’ve made any sort of reaction to his antics an event.

He’s keen to chase that next exasperated sigh or bright smile. But perhaps he’s underestimated your mood this evening.

You turn to him, twisting just slightly to stare. Sat on the ground, you can look directly at him without the hindrance of any height differences. It’s never unnerving to see you confident, it makes his heart flutter.

“You think you’re really tough, huh?” you ask, reaching out and poking him in the chest. It’s a sharp contrast to the feel of your hand in his hair, but no attention you give could go unappreciated.

“Hey, now, don’t put words in my mouth. I just said—” he starts, a grin creeping onto his face to betray him. He meant what he said, to an extent. Though he’s not ready to admit that more than just your pretty face caught him off-guard.

If it was only that, he might’ve stood a chance.

“If you want to fight again, I’ll fight,” you continue, ignoring his futile attempts to diffuse your ire. It isn’t real, he knows, he’s seen you angry and this is far from it. “You’re already on your back, that’s not much of a challenge.”

You straighten up. Despite the offense taken, there’s still that soft hint of mirth in your eyes as you shift closer to him.

“No I’m n—” he starts. You’re looking for a rematch, obviously, and Ren relaxes when you reach out. Your hands find his shoulders this time, giving a gentle shove that knocks him back because he allows it.

Love is stupid, really. He never thought that lying down could be an admission, not in the way that he’s interpreted it. But he goes down easy, falling with a soft thud and a surprised exhale. His eyes widen, playing along with your act.

“Not fair again! I just got distracted a second time,” he insists. But what he doesn’t anticipate is how genuinely fast you are.

With premeditated grace, you’re back on top of him. With ease, he’s compromised. You’re likely expecting him to put up at least the pretense of a fight, but it doesn’t come. His mouth hangs open in genuine shock. The reappearance of your comfortable heat and weight is like a physical blow, one that blindsides him bad enough to send his thoughts racing.

Racing, but scattered. He can’t stutter out anything else, not even an excuse as to why he just lies there. You lean over him, amused but seemingly unsurprised. He expects you to stop at a certain point, but you shift and push yourself onto your knees.

Your face is so close to his. It’s almost close enough. Your hair smells good, like the lilac bush that blooms in an untidily outside your bedroom window. Ren wants to brush away--- something. He isn’t sure. Nothing obstructs his view of you, but he wants to touch you all the same. If only so he can quiet his racing heart.

He thinks you’re going to kiss him. You’re near enough to do it, he rationalizes. But you turn your head at the last second, just before your lips can brush his. You press your mouth instead to the shell of his ear. Your chest is to his chest. Can you hear it, too? His pulse is working overtime.

A part of him hopes so. He braces himself.

“So close your eyes, love,” you whisper. The end of your sentence melts into a giggle. “I can’t distract you if you can’t see me.”

“Yes you can,” he returns. Ren’s eyes stay open because there’s no point in pretending you’re right. It isn’t the look of you, it’s everything else.

“You’re such a flirt!” you exclaim, the disbelief in your voice is shattering. But you don’t sit up, not yet. You seem to like seeing him squirm, laid out beneath you with his ribcage cracked open. He knows he’s lacking in dignity when he lets you look at him without restraint.

You still don’t look annoyed any more. No, you stare at him with something else in your eyes. If he didn’t know any better, he’d say you knew exactly what you did to him. But that isn’t quite accurate.

If Ren didn’t know you at all, he’d say that your heated gaze holds a similar uncertainty. With a love that won’t be willingly admitted.

And then you blink, you smirk at him. He’s still got his eyes open, looking stricken but playful. The tension’s receded, your return to this most-favoured spot is no longer something that can be read into. You both retreat to ignorance, happy to write off the exchange as merely awkward. The shame that turns Ren’s cheeks a bit pink is rooted in inaction, not the abundance of it.

He should say something, he realizes. When is he ever at a loss for words? He should say something now.

But when he clears his throat, makes ready to volley a compliment about how he could get used to this--- you’re already gone.

Like before, you ease off him. Maybe you’re embarrassed as well, nervous because you could have and indeed wanted to kiss him. But you failed. Ren doesn’t know which is worse, his regret or your own.

Unlike before, you lie down next to him. The hardwood presses against your shoulder blades, his arm is dangerously close to yours. He hopes he didn’t imagine your shuddering inhale before you move a little nearer. Near enough to put your skin on his. 

The rightness returns, even if he feels like something has definitely changed. Hopefully for the better, but he can’t be sure just yet. 

“Don’t let me win next time,” you say, “it’s only fun when we both care.”

“It’s just a game,” Ren finally finds his voice, though it sounds half-caught in his throat. 

“Not to me!” you exclaim, giving over to a half-joking tone. Any serious connection is to be ignored, for the comfort of both. “This is very serious, I never lose a fight. And not just because I’m pretty!”

“Like I said, you’re not just distractingly beautiful,” Ren admits, willing to budge on that issue if only to hide another. “You’re too fast for me.”

But he means to say you’re perfect. Perfect in every way. Your eyes, your body, your wit and your charms work together to make him helpless. 

You don’t catch that, though. You’re not looking at him any more. You’ve not pulled away, but you’ve turned your head to look at the ceiling.

“I’m glad we’re friends, Ren,” you start, “I doubt any of the other guys would let me get away with half the stuff you do.”

“Cut yourself some slack, you’re not so bad. Maybe I like you,” he replies. Ren can’t bring himself to look away from the ceiling either.

It’s the biggest lie yet, perhaps. He loves you, and the use of softer words won’t change that. He has never, ever been able to do anything less.

[mellifera38]

Mel’s Big Fantasy Place-Name Reference

So I’ve been doing lots of D&D world-building lately and I’ve kind of been putting together lists of words to help inspire new fantasy place names. I figured I’d share. These are helpful for naming towns, regions, landforms, roads, shops, and they’re also probably useful for coming up with surnames. This is LONG. There’s plenty more under the cut including a huge list of “fantasy sounding” word-parts. Enjoy!

Towns & Kingdoms

town, borough, city, hamlet, parish, township, village, villa, domain

kingdom, empire, nation, country, county, city-state, state, province, dominion

Town Name End Words (English flavored)

-ton, -ston, -caster, -dale, -den, -field, -gate, -glen, -ham, -holm, -hurst, -bar, -boro, -by, -cross, -kirk, -meade, -moore, -ville, -wich, -bee, -burg, -cester, -don, -lea, -mer, -rose, -wall, -worth, -berg, -burgh, -chase, -ly, -lin, -mor, -mere, -pool. -port, -stead, -stow, -strath, -side, -way, -berry, -bury, -chester, -haven, -mar, -mont, -ton, -wick, -meet, -heim, -hold, -hall, -point

Buildings & Places

castle, fort, palace, fortress, garrison, lodge, estate, hold, stronghold, tower, watchtower, palace, spire, citadel, bastion, court, manor, house

altar, chapel, abbey, shrine, temple, monastery, cathedral, sanctum, crypt, catacomb, tomb

orchard, arbor, vineyard, farm, farmstead, shire, garden, ranch

plaza, district, quarter, market, courtyard, inn, stables, tavern, blacksmith, forge, mine, mill, quarry, gallows, apothecary, college, bakery, clothier, library, guild house, bath house, pleasure house, brothel, jail, prison, dungeon, cellar, basement, attic, sewer, cistern

lookout, post, tradepost, camp, outpost, hovel, hideaway, lair, nook, watch, roost, respite, retreat, hostel, holdout, redoubt, perch, refuge, haven, alcove, haunt, knell, enclave, station, caravan, exchange, conclave

port, bridge, ferry, harbor, landing, jetty, wharf, berth, footbridge, dam, beacon, lighthouse, marina, dockyard, shipyard

road, street, way, row, lane, trail, corner, crossing, gate, junction, waygate, end, wall, crossroads,  barrier, bulwark, blockade, pavilion, avenue, promenade, alley, fork, route

Time & Direction

North, South, East, West, up, down, side, rise, fall, over, under

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn, solstice, equanox, vernal, ever, never

dusk, dawn, dawnrise, morning, night, nightfall, evening, sundown, sunbreak, sunset

lunar, solar, sun, moon, star, eclipse

Geographical Terms

Cave, cavern, cenote, precipice, crevasse, crater, maar, chasm, ravine, trench, rift, pit

Cliff, bluff, crag, scarp, outcrop, stack, tor, falls, run, eyrie, aerie

Hill, mountain, volcano, knoll, hillock, downs, barrow, plateau, mesa, butte, pike, peak, mount, summit, horn, knob, pass, ridge, terrace, gap, point, rise, rim, range, view, vista, canyon, hogback, ledge, stair, descent

Valley, gulch, gully, vale, dale, dell, glen, hollow, grotto, gorge, bottoms, basin, knoll, combe

Meadow, grassland, field, pasture, steppe, veld, sward, lea, mead, fell, moor, moorland, heath, croft, paddock, boondock, prairie, acre, strath, heights, mount, belt

Woodlands, woods, forest, bush, bower, arbor, grove, weald, timberland, thicket, bosk, copse, coppice, underbrush, hinterland, park, jungle, rainforest, wilds, frontier, outskirts

Desert, dunes, playa, arroyo, chaparral, karst, salt flats, salt pan, oasis, spring, seep, tar pit, hot springs, fissure, steam vent, geyser, waste, wasteland, badland, brushland, dustbowl, scrubland

Ocean, sea, lake, pond, spring, tarn, mere, sluice, pool, coast, gulf, bay

Lagoon, cay, key, reef, atoll, shoal, tideland, tide flat, swale, cove, sandspit, strand, beach

Snowdrift, snowbank, permafrost, floe, hoar, rime, tundra, fjord, glacier, iceberg

River, stream, creek, brook, tributary, watersmeet, headwater, ford, levee, delta, estuary, firth, strait, narrows, channel, eddy, inlet, rapids, mouth, falls

Wetland, marsh, bog, fen, moor, bayou, glade, swamp, banks, span, wash, march, shallows, mire, morass, quag, quagmire, everglade, slough, lowland, sump, reach

Island, isle, peninsula, isthmus, bight, headland, promontory, cape, pointe, cape

More under the cut including: Color words, Animal/Monster related words, Rocks/Metals/Gems list, Foliage, People groups/types, Weather/Environment/ Elemental words, Man-made Items, Body Parts, Mechanical sounding words, a huge list of both pleasant and unpleasant Atmospheric Descriptors, and a huge list of Fantasy Word-parts.

Color Descriptions

Warm: red, scarlet, crimson, rusty, cerise, carmine, cinnabar, orange, vermillion, ochre, peach, salmon, saffron, yellow, gold, lemon, amber, pink, magenta, maroon, brown, sepia, burgundy, beige, tan, fuchsia, taupe

Cool: green, beryl, jade, evergreen, chartreuse, olive, viridian, celadon, blue, azure, navy, cerulean, turquoise, teal, cyan, cobalt, periwinkle, beryl, purple, violet, indigo, mauve, plum

Neutral: gray, silver, ashy, charcoal, slate, white, pearly, alabaster, ivory, black, ebony, jet

dark, dusky, pale, bleached, blotchy, bold, dappled, lustrous, faded, drab, milky, mottled, opaque, pastel, stained, subtle, ruddy, waxen, tinted, tinged, painted

Animal / Monster-Related Words

Bear, eagle, wolf, serpent, hawk, horse, goat, sheep, bull, raven, crow, dog, stag, rat, boar, lion, hare, owl, crane, goose, swan, otter, frog, toad, moth, bee, wasp, beetle, spider, slug, snail, leech, dragonfly, fish, trout, salmon, bass, crab, shell, dolphin, whale, eel, cod, haddock

Dragon, goblin, giant, wyvern, ghast, siren, lich, hag, ogre, wyrm, kraken

Talon, scale, tusk, hoof, mane, horn, fur, feather, fang, wing, whisker, bristle, paw, tail, beak, claw, web, quill, paw, maw, pelt, haunch, gill, fin,

Hive, honey, nest, burrow, den, hole, wallow

Rocks / Metals / Minerals

Gold, silver, brass, bronze, copper, platinum, iron, steel, tin, mithril, electrum, adamantite, quicksilver, fool’s gold, titanium

Diamond, ruby, emerald, sapphire, topaz, opal, pearl, jade, jasper, onyx, citrine, aquamarine, turquoise, lapiz lazuli, amethyst, quartz, crystal, amber, jewel

Granite, shale, marble, limestone, sandstone, slate, diorite, basalt, rhyolite, obsidian, glass

Earth, stone, clay, sand, silt, salt, mote, lode, vein, ore, ingot, coal, boulder, bedrock, crust, rubble, pebble, gravel, cobble, dust, clod, peat, muck mud, slip, loam, dirt, grit, scree, shard, flint, stalactite/mite

Trees / Plants / Flowers

Tree, ash, aspen, pine, birch, alder, willow, dogwood, oak, maple, walnut,  chestnut, cedar, mahogany, palm, beech, hickory, hemlock, cottonwood, hawthorn, sycamore, poplar, cypress, mangrove, elm, fir, spruce, yew

Branch, bough, bramble, gnarl, burr, tangle, thistle, briar, thorn, moss, bark, shrub, undergrowth, overgrowth, root, vine, bracken, reed, driftwood, coral, fern, berry, bamboo, nectar, petal, leaf, seed, clover, grass, grain, trunk, twig, canopy, cactus, weed, mushroom, fungus

Apple, olive, apricot, elderberry, coconut, sugar, rice, wheat, cotton, flax, barley, hops, onion, carrot, turnip, cabbage, squash, pumpkin, pepper

Flower, rose, lavender, lilac, jasmine, jonquil, marigold, carnelian, carnation, goldenrod, sage, wisteria, dahlia, nightshade, lily, daisy, daffodil, columbine, amaranth, crocus, buttercup, foxglove, iris, holly, hydrangea, orchid, snowdrop, hyacinth, tulip, yarrow, magnolia, honeysuckle, belladonna, lily pad, magnolia

People

Settler, Pilgrim, Pioneer, Merchant, Prospector, Maker, Surveyor, Mason, Overseer, Apprentice, Widow, Sailor, Miner, Blacksmith, Butcher, Baker, Brewer, Barkeep, Ferryman, Hangman, Gambler, Fisherman, Adventurer, Hero, Seeker, Hiker, Traveler, Crone

Mage, Magician, Summoner, Sorcerer, Wizard, Conjurer, Necromancer, 

King, Queen, Lord, Count, Baron, Guard, Soldier, Knight, Vindicator, Merchant, Crusader, Imperator, Syndicate, Vanguard, Champion, Warden, Victor, Legionnaire, Master, Archer, Footman, Gladiator, Barbarian, Captain, Commodore, 

Beggar, Hunter, Ranger, Deadman, Smuggler, Robber, Swindler, Rebel, Bootlegger, Outlaw, Pirate, Brigand, Ruffian, Highwayman, Cutpurse, Thief, Assassin

God, Goddess, Exarch, Angel, Devil, Demon, Cultist, Prophet, Hermit, Seer

council, clergy, guild, militia, choir 

Climate, Environment, & The Elements

Cold, cool, brisk, frosty, chilly, icy, freezing, frozen, frigid, glacial, bitter, biting, bleak, arctic, polar, boreal, wintry, snowy, snow, blizzarding, blizzard, sleeting, sleet, chill, frost, ice, icebound, ice cap, floe, snowblind, frostbite, coldsnap, avalanche, snowflake

Hot, sunny, humid, sweltering, steaming, boiling, sizzling, blistering, scalding, smoking, caldescent, dry, parched, arid, fallow, thirsty, melting, molten, fiery, blazing, burning, charring, glowing, searing, scorching, blasted, sun, fire, heat, flame, wildfire, bonfire, inferno, coal, ash, cinder, ember, flare, pyre, tinder, kindling, aflame, alight, ablaze, lava, magma, slag,

Wet, damp, dank, soggy, sodden, soaked, drenched, dripping, sopping, briny, murky, rain, storm, hail, drizzle, sprinkle, downpour, deluge, squall, water, cloud, fog, mist, dew, puddle, pool, current, whirlpool, deep, depths, tide, waves, whitewater, waterfall, tidal wave, flow, flood, leak, drain

Wind, breeze, gust, billow, gail, draft, waft, zephyr, still, airy, clear, smokey, tempest, tempestuous, windswept, aerial, lofty, torrid, turbulent, nebulous, tradewind, thunder, lightning, spark, cyclone, tornado, whirlwind, hurricane, typhoon

Man-made Item Words

Furnace, forge, anvil, vault, strap, strip, whetstone, brick, sword, blade, axe, dagger, shield, buckler, morningstar, bow, quiver, arrow, polearm, flail, staff, stave, sheath, hilt, hammer, knife, helm, mantle, banner, pauldron, chainmail, mace, dart, cutlass, canon, needle, cowl, belt,  buckle, bandana, goggles, hood, boot, heel, spindle, spool, thread, sweater, skirt, bonnet, apron, leather, hide, plate, tunic, vest, satin, silk, wool, velvet, lace, corset, stocking, binding

Plow, scythe, (wheel) barrow, saddle, harrow, brand, collar, whip, leash, lead, bridle, stirrup, wheel, straw, stall, barn, hay, bale, pitchfork, well, log, saw, lumber, sod, thatch, mortar, brick, cement, concrete, pitch, pillar, window, fountain, door, cage, spoke, pole, table, bench, plank, board

Candle, torch, cradle, broom, lamp, lantern, clock, bell, lock, hook, trunk, looking glass, spyglass, bottle, vase, locket, locker, key, handle, rope, knot, sack, pocket, pouch, manacle, chain, stake, coffin, fan. cauldron, kettle, pot, bowl, pestle, oven, ladle, spoon, font, wand, potion, elixir, draught, portal, book, tome, scroll, word, manuscript, letter, message, grimoire, map, ink, quill, pen, cards, dice

Coin, coronet, crown, circlet, scepter, treasure, riches, scales, pie, tart, loaf, biscuit, custard, caramel, pudding, porridge, stew, bread, tea, gravy, gristle, spice, lute, lyre, harp, drum, rouge, powder, perfume, brush

bilge, stern, pier, sail, anchor, mast, dock, deck, flag, ship, boat, canoe, barge, wagon, sled, carriage, buggy, cart

Wine, brandy, whiskey, ale, moonshine, gin, cider, rum, grog, beer, brew, goblet, flagon, flask, cask, tankard, stein, mug, barrel, stock, wort, malt

Body Parts

Head, throat, finger, foot, hand, neck, shoulder, rib, jaw, eye, lips, bosom

Skull, spine, bone, tooth, heart, blood, tears, gut, beard

Mechanical-Sounding Words

cog, fuse, sprocket, wrench, screw, nail, bolt, lever, pulley, spanner, gear, spring, shaft, switch, button, cast, pipe, plug, dial, meter, nozzle, cord, brake, gauge, coil, oil, signal, wire, fluke, staple, clamp, bolt, nut, bulb, patch, pump, cable, socket

torque, force, sonic, spark, fizzle, thermal, beam, laser, steam, buzz, mega, mecha, electro, telsa, power, flicker, charge, current, flow, tinker

Atmospheric Words

Unpleasant, Dangerous, Threatening

(nouns) death, fury, battle, scar, shadow, razor, nightmare, wrath, bone, splinter, peril, war, riptide, strife, reckoning, sorrow, terror, deadwood, nether, venom, grime, rage, void, conquest, pain, folly, revenge, horrid, mirk, shear, fathom, frenzy, corpselight/marshlight, reaper, gloom, doom, torment, torture, spite, grizzled, sludge, refuse, spore, carrion, fear, pyre, funeral, shade, beast, witch, grip, legion, downfall, ruin, plague, woe, bane, horde, acid, fell, grief, corpse, mildew, mold, miter, dirge

(adjectives) dead, jagged, decrepit, fallen, darkened, blackened, dire, grim, feral, wild, broken, desolate, mad, lost, under, stagnant, blistered, derelict, forlorn, unbound, sunken, fallow, shriveled, wayward, bleak, low, weathered, fungal, last, brittle, sleepy, -strewn, dusky, deserted, empty, barren, vacant, forsaken, bare, bereft, stranded, solitary, abandoned, discarded, forgotten, deep, abysmal, bottomless, buried, fathomless,unfathomable, diseased, plagued, virulent, noxious, venomous, toxic, fetid, revolting, putrid, rancid, foul, squalid, sullied, vile, blighted, vicious, ferocious, dangerous, savage, cavernous, vast, yawning, chasmal, echoing, dim, dingy, gloomy, inky, lurid, shaded, shadowy, somber, sunless, tenebrous, unlit, veiled, hellish, accursed, sulfurous, damned, infernal, condemned, doomed, wicked, sinister, dread, unending, spectral, ghostly, haunted, eldritch, unknown, weary, silent, hungry, cloven, acidic

(verb/adverbs): wither (withering / withered), skulk (skulking), whisper, skitter, chitter, sting, slither, writhe, gape, screech, scream, howl, lurk, roil, twist, shift, swarm, spawn, fester, bleed, howl, shudder, shrivel, devour, swirl, maul, trip, smother, weep, shatter, ruin, curse, ravage, hush, rot, drown, sunder, blister, warp, fracture, die, shroud, fall, surge, shiver, roar, thunder, smolder, break, silt, slide, lash, mourn, crush, wail, decay, crumble, erode, decline, reek, lament, taint, corrupt, defile, poison, infect, shun, sigh, sever, crawl, starve, grind, cut, wound, bruise, maim, stab, bludgeon, rust, mutilate, tremble, stumble, fumble, clank, clang

Pleasant, Safe, Neutral

(nouns) spirit, luck, soul, oracle, song, sky, smile, rune, obelisk, cloud, timber, valor, triumph, rest, dream, thrall, might, valiance, glory, mirror, life, hope, oath, serenity, sojourn, god, hearth, crown, throne, crest, guard, rise, ascent, circle, ring, twin, vigil, breath, new, whistle, grasp, snap, fringe, threshold, arch, cleft, bend, home, fruit, wilds, echo, moonlight, sunlight, starlight, splendor, vigilance, honor, memory, fortune, aurora, paradise, caress

(adjectives) gentle, pleasant, prosperous, peaceful, sweet, good, great, mild, grand, topic, lush, wild, abundant, verdant, sylvan, vital, florid, bosky, callow, verdurous, lucious, fertile, spellbound, captivating, mystical, hidden, arcane, clandestine, esoteric, covert, cryptic, runic, otherworldly, touched, still, fair, deep, quiet, bright, sheer, tranquil, ancient, light, far, -wrought, tidal, royal, shaded, swift, true, free, high, vibrant, pure, argent, hibernal, ascendant, halcyon, silken, bountiful, gilded, colossal, massive, stout, elder, -bourne, furrowed, happy, merry, -bound, loud, lit, silk, quiet, bright, luminous, shining, burnished, glossy, brilliant, lambent, lucent, lustrous, radiant, resplendent, vivid, vibrant, illuminated, silvery, limpid, sunlit, divine, sacred, holy, eternal, celestial, spiritual, almighty, anointed, consecrated, exalted, hallowed, sanctified, ambrosial, beatific, blissful, demure, naked, bare, ample, coy,  deific, godly, omnipotent, omnipresent, rapturous, sacramental, sacrosanct, blessed, majestic, iridescent, glowing, overgrown, dense, hard, timeless, sly, scatter, everlasting, full, half, first, last

(verb/adverbs) arch (arching / arched), wink (winking), sing, nestle, graze, stroll, roll, flourish, bloom, bud, burgeon, live, dawn, hide, dawn, run, pray, wake, laugh, wake, glimmer, glitter, drift, sleep, tumble, bind, arch, blush, grin, glister, beam, meander, wind, widen, charm, bewitch, enthrall, entrance, enchant, allure, beguile, glitter, shimmer, sparkle twinkle, crest, quiver, slumber, herald, shelter, leap, click, climb, scuttle, dig, barter, chant, hum, chime, kiss, flirt, tempt, tease, play, seduce

Generic “Fantasy-Sounding” Word Parts

A - D

aaz, ada, adaer, adal, adar, adbar, adir, ae, ael, aer, aern, aeron, aeryeon, agar, agis, aglar, agron, ahar, akan, akyl, al, alam, alan, alaor, ald, alea, ali, alir, allyn, alm, alon, alor, altar, altum, aluar, alys, amar, amaz, ame, ammen, amir, amol, amn, amus, anar, andor, ang, ankh, ar, ara, aram, arc, arg, arian, arkh, arla, arlith, arn, arond, arthus, arum, arvien, ary, asha, ashyr, ask, assur, aster, astra, ath, athor, athra, athryn, atol, au, auga, aum, auroch, aven, az, azar, baal, bae, bael, bak, bal, balor, ban, bar, bara, barr, batol, batar, basir, basha, batyr, bel, belph, belu, ben, beo, bere, berren, berun, besil, bezan, bhaer, bhal, blask, blis, blod, bor, boraz, bos, bran, brath, braun, breon, bri, bry, bul, bur, byl, caer, cal, calan, cara, cassa, cath, cela, cen, cenar, cerul, chalar, cham, chion, cimar, clo, coram, corel, corman, crim, crom, daar, dach, dae, dago, dagol, dahar, dala, dalar, dalin, dam, danas, daneth, dannar, dar, darian,  darath, darm, darma, darro, das, dasa, dasha, dath, del, delia, delimm, dellyn, delmar, delo, den, dess, dever, dhaer, dhas, dhaz, dhed, dhin, din, dine, diar, dien, div, djer, dlyn, dol, dolan, doon, dora, doril, doun, dral, dranor, drasil, dren, drian, drien, drin, drov, druar, drud, duald, duatha, duir, dul, dulth, dun, durth, dyra, dyver,

E - H

ea, eber, eden, edluk, egan, eiel, eilean, ejen, elath, eld, eldor, eldra, elith emar, ellesar, eltar, eltaran, elth, eltur, elyth, emen, empra, emril, emvor, ena, endra, enthor, erad, erai, ere, eriel, erith, erl, eron, erre, eryn, esk, esmel, espar, estria, eta, ethel, eval, ezro, ezan, ezune, ezil, fael, faelar, faern, falk, falak, farak, faril, farla, fel, fen, fenris, fer, fet, fin, finar, forel, folgun, ful, fulk, fur, fyra, fallon, gael, gach, gabir, gadath, gal, galar, gana, gar, garth, garon, garok, garne, gath, geir, gelden, geren,  geron, ghal, ghallar, ghast, ghel, ghom, ghon, gith, glae, glander, glar, glym, gol, goll, gollo, goloth, gorot, gost, goth, graeve, gran, grimm, grist, grom, grosh, grun, grym, gual, guil, guir, gulth, gulur, gur, gurnth, gwaer, haa, hael, haer, hadar, hadel, hakla, hala, hald, halana, halid, hallar, halon, halrua, halus, halvan, hamar, hanar, hanyl, haor, hara, haren, haresk, harmun, harrokh, harrow, haspur, haza, hazuth, heber,  hela, helve, hem, hen, herath, hesper, heth, hethar, hind, hisari, hjaa, hlath, hlond, hluth, hoarth, holtar, horo, hotun, hrag, hrakh, hroth, hull, hyak, hyrza

I - M

iibra, ilth, ilus, ilira, iman, imar, imas, imb, imir, immer, immil, imne, impil, ingdal, innar, ir, iriae, iril, irith, irk, irul, isha, istis, isil, itala, ith, ithal, itka, jada, jae, jaeda, jahaka, jala, jarra, jaro, jath, jenda, jhaamm, jhothm, jinn, jinth, jyn, kado, kah, kal, kalif, kam, kana, kara, karg, kars, karth, kasp, katla, kaul, kazar, kazr, kela, kelem, kerym, keth, keva, kez, kezan, khaer, khal, khama, khaz, khara, khed, khel, khol, khur, kil, kor, korvan, koll, kos, kir, kra, kul, kulda, kund, kyne, lae, laen, lag, lan, lann, lanar, lantar, lapal, lar, laran, lareth, lark, lath, lauth, lav, lavur, lazar, leih, leshyr, leth, lhaza, lhuven, liad, liam, liard, lim, lin, lirn, lisk, listra, lith, liya, llair, llor, lok, lolth, loran, lorkh, lorn, loth, lothen, luen, luir, luk, lund, lur, luth, lyndus, lyra, lyth, maal, madrasm maera, maer, maerim, maes, mag, magra, mahand, mal, malar, mald, maldo, mar, mara, mark, marl, maru, maruk, meir, melish, memnon, mer, metar, methi, mhil, mina, mir, miram, mirk, mista, mith, moander, mok, modir, modan, mon, monn, mor, more, morel, moril, morn, moro, morrow, morth, mort, morum, morven, muar, mul, mydra, myr, myra, myst

N - S

naar, nadyra, naedyr, naga, najar, nal, naal, nalir, nar, naruk, narbond, narlith, narzul, nasaq, nashkel, natar, nath, natha, neir, neth, nether, nhall, nikh, nil, nilith, noan, nolvurm nonthal, norda, noro, novul, nul, nur, nus, nyan, nyth, ober, odra, oghr, okoth, olleth, olodel, omgar, ondath, onthril, ordul, orish, oroch, orgra, orlim, ormath, ornar, orntath, oroch, orth, orva, oryn, orzo, ostel, ostor, ostrav, othea, ovar, ozod, ozul, palan, palad, pae, peldan, pern, perris, perim, pele, pen, phail, phanda, phara, phen, phendra, pila, pinn, pora, puril, pur, pyra, qadim, quar, quel, ques, quil, raah, rael, ran, ranna, rassil, rak, rald, rassa, reddan, reith, relur, ren, rendril, resil, reska, reth, reven, revar, rhy, rhynn, ria, rian, rin, ris, rissian, rona, roch, rorn, rora, rotha, rual, ruar, ruhal, ruil, ruk, runn, rusk, ryn, saa, saar, saal, sabal, samar, samrin, sankh, sar, sarg, sarguth, sarin, sarlan, sel, seld, sember, semkh, sen, sendrin, septa, senta, seros, shaar, shad, shadra, shae, shaen, shaera, shak, shalan, sham, shamath, shan, shana, sharan, shayl, shemar, shere, shor, shul, shyll, shyr, sidur, sil, silvan, sim, sintar, sirem, skar, skell, skur, skyr, sokol, solan, sola, somra, sor, ssin, stel, strill, suldan, sulk, sunda, sur, surkh, suth, syl, sylph, sylune, syndra, syth

T - Z

taak, taar, taer, tah, tak, tala, talag, talar, talas, talath, tammar, tanar, tanil, tar, tara, taran, tarl, tarn, tasha, tath, tavil, telar, teld, telf, telos, tempe, tethy, tezir, thaar, thaer, thal, thalag, thalas, thalan, thalar, thamor, thander, thangol, thar, thay, thazal, theer, theim, thelon, thera, thendi, theril, thiir, thil, thild, thimir, thommar, thon, thoon, thor, thran, thrann, threl, thril, thrul, thryn, thuk, thultan, thume, thun, thy, thyn, thyr, tir, tiras, tirum, tohre, tol, tolar, tolir,  tolzrin, tor, tormel, tormir, traal, triel, trith, tsath, tsur, tul, tur, turiver, turth, tymor, tyr, uder, udar, ugoth, uhr, ukh, ukir, uker, usten, ulgarth, ulgoth, ultir, ulur, umar, umath, umber, unara, undro, undu, untha, upir, ur, ursa, ursol, uron, uth, uthen, uz, van, vaar, vaelan, vaer, vaern, val valan, valash, vali, valt, vandan, vanede, vanrak, var, varyth, vassa, vastar, vaunt, vay, vel, velar, velen, velius, vell, velta, ven, veren, vern, vesper, vilar, vilhon, vintor, vir, vira, virdin, volo, volun, von, voon, vor, voro, vos, vosir, vosal, vund, war, wara, whel, wol, wynn, wyr, wyrm, xer, xul, xen, xian, yad, yag, yal, yar, yath, yeon, yhal, yir, yirar, yuir, yul, yur, zail, zala, zalhar, zan, zanda, zar, zalar, zarach, zaru, zash, zashu, zemur, zhent, zim, ziram, zindala, zindar, zoun, zul, zurr, zuth, zuu, zym

A lot of places are named after historical events, battles, and people, so keep that in mind. God/Goddess names tied to your world also work well. Places are also often named after things that the area is known for, like Georgia being known for its peaches.

My brain was fried by the end of this so feel free to add more!

I hope you find this reference helpful and good luck world-building!

-Mel

[twistednuns]

December 2019

Maxim calling out of the blue, inviting me to the Mine concert later that month.

Stumbling upon great inspiration for plant-based buddha bowls.

@shitgothssay memes.

Zotter salted caramel chocolate.

Finding out about the fact that you can just add the letter A to some words to transform them into adjectives. Like aglitter or aglow and aglisten.

Ayurvedic Kapha tea with some black tea, honey and milk. Sonnentor Gute Laune tea. Green tea with toasted coconut.

Isana shower oil. Works wonders for dry skin. Such a smooth and creamy texture. Great for shaving, too.

Winning the pub quiz - again! I played with Maggie, Dennis, Daniel and Steffen (Team name: Three geese in a trenchcoat) and we won 178€. However, the best thing about this was when I finally solved the anagram after thinking about it for 10 minutes. It was Greta Thunberg! Winning is lovely, of course, but solving the anagram is already a personal win for me each time.

Tuesdays. Coming home early, sleeping it off.

Being super rested after a nap, cooking a huge pot of veggie stew and my ratatouille signature recipe, even preparing a batch of butter bean hummus and salad dressing. Listening to folk music, singing along, even dancing at some point. Standing there, peeling the potatos… Happy moment.

Signature manicure. Always. This time: bluish iridescent lilac with the obligatory black dot.

A personal realisation. I’ve been massively out of touch with myself. I’ve stopped journaling, stopped doing things for myself because they’re beneficial and not because they’re convenient and numb everything. And why is that a good thing? Well, only being at this point and realising what’s wrong with me makes it possible to do something against it. To come up a self-care plan. To make myself feel better.

Semi-deleting Facebook.

Spending time with Manu for the first time in three months. Watching a documentary about black holes and a cheesy Christmas movie. Ordering south Indian food, cuddling up in bed. Sometimes I don’t know why I keep isolation myself. Being around people can be really lovely and soothing if you can be yourself around them. It’s just that I often feel the presence of other living beings drains my energy.

The best massage I ever had. From now on I’ll always request Yaya as my massage therapist. She is SICK. Strong, merciless, forces me into weird poses and makes my back crack.

Also: the chocolate-filled mint hard candy they hand out at the massage studio. I used to hate mint-infused chocolate but somehow I think these are delicious. Perfect after-torture-treat.

Persimmons. Obsessed.

My eye colour in artificial light. A dark moss green with caramel-coloured speckles and a dark rim.

The National playing a 2-hour-long concert and including some of my favourite songs from the High Violet album. Fangirling with Anika.

The smell of cold. You know, that whiff of cool air you get when you’re sniffing a jacket that’s been hanging on the balcony for a few hours to air out.

Learning more about Claire Saffitz from this article - she likes arts and crafts, is a homebody and has degrees in history and literature! She basically enrolled in culinary school because she was bored after graduation. She’s an enigma of a quirky kind. Not brilliant and scattered, but determined and aimless. Not brave and rebellious, but anxious and creative. She hates change yet pursues it, wants order but trades in chaos. She’s loved because she hates stuff; performs well because she can’t perform. And above all, she’s aggressively regular—and something about this makes the crowd go wild.

Fresh laundry smell on my blankets and pillows. And my new gravity blanket. It weighs 11kg which feels crazy heavy when you carry it but the weight evenly distributes over the body when you’re lying down. Apparently the pressure triggers the release of stress hormones. So far I’m sleeping like a baby and I don’t seem to wake up or move much at night.

Stephanie Madewell. I love everything she writes, her blog is such a godsend of beautiful, important, eclectic ideas. One thing I especially like are her imaginary outfits.

Princess Margaret’s limerick contest with President Lyndon B. Johnson in The Crown. Pure comedy. “There was a young lady from Dallas / who used a dynamite stick as a phallus / they found her vagina in North Carolina / and her asshole in Buckingham Palace.”

Little pieces of string in the corners of a duvet cover. It’s the first time I’ve seen those. So practical for big blankets!

Mental health days. I needed this. So much. Mornings in bed, reading for hours. Drinking a whole pot of tea.

Partner yoga. Chanting the closing mantra together.

Making vegan energy balls for my brother. I adapted the recipe and made my own versions so I ended up with a batch of pistachio/cherry and mango/sesame.

Freaking out whenever I see a cute cat. Damn, I really need to spend more time with animals. My highlight: breakfast in bed, watching a video of an adorable cat giving birth. I cried. Yup.

Going swimming for the first time in, man, I don’t even know. Forever. I didn’t swim for a long time, maybe half an hour, but muscle memory kicked in immediately. Water is totally my element. And, as if it had been destiny: I chose the day they cut the hanging plants in the main hall and the guy gave me a variety of five different cuttings to take home!! He made me a very happy girl.

The ink blue sky right after sunset. / The morning after the full moon in Gemini (the moon still bright and huge, visible in the bluish-grey Western sky). / When the sun suddenly comes out after a very dark and gloomy morning.

Buying a new phone. The old one was broken beyond repair. I even got a nice cork protective case. How could I ever live without an uncracked screen? The battery now actually lasts for more than a day. Nice.

Odd bits of knowledge: A galanthophile is an enthusiastic collector and identifier of snowdrop (Galanthus) species and cultivars. (Wikipedia) // Scientists theorize the Universe might have cracks in it: long thin boundaries that formed as space cooled after the Big Bang. 95 billion lightyears long and a few femtometers thin, these wrinkles in space-time would hold enough energy to bend light and destroy entire planets. (PHD comics) // the word to bloviate (German meaning: schwafeln, langatmig vortragen) // In Japan we have three rituals: HANAMI, TSUKIMI, and YUKIMI. HANAMI is watching the flowers. TSUKIMI is watching the moon, YUKIMI is watching the snow. It’s a beautiful tradition when you invite people to watch with you. I remember them all. (Yoko Ono) // In linguistics, prosody is concerned with those elements of speech that are not individual phonetic segments (vowels and consonants) but are properties of syllables and larger units of speech, including linguistic functions such as intonation, tone, stress, and rhythm. Such elements are known as suprasegmentals. Prosody may reflect various features of the speaker or the utterance: the emotional state of the speaker; the form of the utterance (statement, question, or command); the presence of irony or sarcasm; emphasis, contrast, and focus. It may otherwise reflect other elements of language that may not be encoded by grammar or by choice of vocabulary. (Wikipedia) //

I know I mention this a lot but the first olfactory whiff of a freshly cut open passion fruit is one of the best smells I know.

When my breakfast tastes like a candy bar. Which it immediately does whenever I add almond butter and cocoa nibs to porridge.

Yoga at home on a sunny Saturday afternoon. I’m often too lazy to get out my yoga mat but whenever I do afterwards I’m always so glad I practiced. Also: going to yoga class despite being extremely stressed out. It actually helped me silence some of these tormenting thoughts in my head.

Cutting my own hair. It’s kinda ridiculous and layered but I love the new bounce.

Michael Nyman - Musique à grande vitesse x // feels like it makes my pulse quicker, it’s urging and forceful.

My adventures in psychedelia - an article about the therapeutic effect of psychoactive drugs. I’m going to get Michael Pollan’s book about the topic from the library next week. So interesting.

People who are still writing letters.

My pupils. I realised that some of them have become very fine people. Open, compassionate, motivated, interested, bright, polite. Like the students who attended our first school magazine meeting in their spare time - on the last school day before the Christmas holidays - and had all these amazing ideas. Victor, being able to hold a conversation like an adult. Marks cuddling that dog in front of the supermarket. My tenth-graders being really reasonable, managable, easy to talk to.

Liza Weil’s role as Shy Baldwin’s bass player in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It took me three episodes to recognize her.

A little embroidery set. I love keeping my hands busy when I’m watching movies.

Making vegan walnut lebkuchen and a very good batch of crisp bread in one go.

Roast apples with candied almonds and marzipan for Christmas dinner. Some buckwheat chocolate cookies. Actually helping out my mum in the kitchen.

Sitting at the piano with my brother, singing tunes from our childhood series, Disney songs, pop songs… We both had sore throats afterwards.

Visiting Sash’s parents over Christmas. Her mum cooked a pretty great lunch and we played board games.

Learning how to make a monkey fist knot.

Finding a new spot I like in my apartment. The chair right next to the window at the kitchen table. It’s nice and warm because you can sit beside the heater and while you have breakfast or browse through a cookbook you can see what’s going on outside.

Seeing the incredible gobelins at Kunsthalle / Fäden der Moderne exhibition. I loved the Le Corbusier ones.

Visiting Manu at his parents' place. Playing board games together, his mum feeding me with parsley potatoes and a weird _bird's milk_ dessert. Lying on the sofa, watching old movies. It's weirdly nice to be part of a normal family dynamic once in a while.

Andre saving my New Year’s Eve at the very last minute. Out of the blue he suggested a trip to Czech Republic right after midnight the day before. I was like… okay, let’s do this! So I met up with him and three people I had never met before in Regensburg and we drove to Český Krumlov, checked into our fancy hotel and walked down to the city centre. Czech food for dinner, a band playing at the city square. We climbed up to the castle for the turn of the year. This must have been the first year that started out with a proper New Year’s kiss. Afterwards we went to a weird music bar and - apparently - one of the best clubs in the country. I had a lot of fun. Even though getting Andre home was quite a challenge.

[droewyn]

Give Me a Reason (5/9)

<Part 1>    <Part 2>    <Part 3>    <Part 4>

“He’s not really my friend, you know,” Yuuri informed the Uber driver.  He had no idea how long they had been on the road, or how much longer they’d be on the road, and the silence had finally gotten to him.  “This is actually a kidnapping.  Did you not notice the blindfold?”  It was actually a sleep mask, but the effect was the same.  Yuuri couldn’t see a thing.

“Lies!” Phichit gasped, swatting Yuuri on the shoulder.  “I am your best friend.  Best possible friend.  There are no better friends than me in the entire world and you know it.”

“Did you see that?” he demanded.  “Now he’s using physical violence to subdue me.”

There was a dry laugh from the front seat.  “Yeah, dude.  I can tell you’re terrified.”

“I’m resigned to my fate,” Yuuri corrected primly.  “You notice he’s not even denying the kidnapping part.”

“I’m kidnapping you out of love, Yuuri.  It’s a love abduction.”

“Yeah, I’m pretty sure that’s what serial killers say right before they—”  The car turned abruptly, and Yuuri fumbled for the oh-shit handle to keep himself upright.  Pavement gave way to gravel, and a moment later he felt the engine quiet as they slowed to a stop.

“We’re here!”

Having been forbidden to remove the blindfold until Phichit gave him permission to do so, Yuuri unbuckled his seat belt and opened the car door, but stayed where he was.  “I forgive you for not saving me,” he told the driver as Phichit paid for their ride.  “Please don’t blame yourself for my impending demise.”  Then there were hands on his, pulling him to his feet.

“Good luck with your… whatever,” the voice laughed, and the car started to pull away.

“My unquiet spirit totally won’t haunt you for eternity or anything, so don’t worry about it!” Yuuri shouted after the retreating vehicle.  Gripping Phichit’s hand tightly, he allowed himself to be led off the gravel and onto grass.  The sun was warm on his face, and the air was heady with spring flowers.

“You’re in a better mood today,” Phichit observed as they walked.

Yuuri shrugged.  “I guess,” he said.  “I mean, I’m still incredibly homesick, Victor Nikiforov still doesn’t know that I exist, I’m still going to have to take at least an extra semester of classes thanks to Professor Just-Because-You’re-An-Olympian-Doesn’t-Mean-You’re-Exempt-From-My-Attendance-Policy-You-Entitled-Millennial Goddamn Flint, and King probably still hates me.  But I had the spoons for basic hygiene this morning, so go me?”

The floral scent was getting stronger now.  Much stronger.  “You bantered with Uber Mike.  Having non-essential spoons to spend is good, right?”  Yuuri made a noncommittal noise, and Phichit sighed.  “Look, you were eighth at Worlds this year and tenth in the Olympics so the Victor thing is in progress, you’re going to camp out in front of the dean’s office until she agrees to review Flint’s bullshit decision, which she will since she isn’t an ageist old goat, and King absolutely does not hate you.  In fact, he’s been PMing me so much that I can’t keep up with his messages, and coming from me you know that’s saying something.  He’s worried, and more than a little afraid that you hate him.”

Yuuri opened his mouth to protest, but was stopped by a finger on his lips.  “Later,” Phichit’s tone brooked no argument.  “First things first.”  Without further warning, the sleep mask was yanked from his face, and Yuuri found himself blinking against sudden brightness.

The world was a green and purple blur.  One of the blankets from their apartment was spread out on the grass, and on top of it sat a red and white plastic cooler.  Phichit handed him his glasses, and as he slid them into place, the fuzzy shapes around them resolved into an intimate little grove of lilac bushes.  The plants were in full bloom, branches nearly bowing under the weight of the flowers.  Yuuri gasped.  “Phichit.”  His voice was an awed murmur.  “Is this...” he trailed off.

“It’s Michigan hanami!”  Phichit was beaming at Yuuri, delighted by his reaction.  “I couldn’t find any cherry blossoms, except for some little ornamental trees in people’s yards, but lilacs are basically everywhere.  Mackinac Island even has a lilac festival, but the hotels have been booked up for months and they’re really expensive and anyway, I didn’t think I could get you to put up with the blindfold for that long.”

“No, this is perfect.”   And it was.  If sakura blossoms were Japan – subtly sweet and graceful, with beauty in their very uniformity – then surely the bold lilac, with its powerful fragrance and infinite variations in size and color, had to be America.

And best of all, they were completely alone.  Even in a small town like Hasetsu, hanami would have them fighting for space, everyone’s blankets nearly overlapping in the struggle to fit everyone in for the sakura viewing.  It was fun, but loud and stressful as well.  Here, there was nothing to distract from the flowers, just the rustling of trees in the breeze interrupted by occasional birdsong.

No sooner had they slipped their shoes off and made themselves comfortable on the blanket than Phichit had the cooler open, pulling out treat after treat.  Mochi, onigiri, milk pudding, dango; each colored a delicate purple instead of the traditional cherry blossom pink.  “So this is what you’ve been doing with Ketty all week after practice.”  Yuuri admired a butter cookie and its decoration of sugared lilac blooms before taking a bite.  “It’s good,” he grinned.  “Different, but really good!”

“It was her idea to adapt the traditional recipes,” Phichit admitted.  “But we had to make sure I wasn’t going to poison us first.  Gods bless the internet.”

“I’ll drink to that.” The violet stuff in the clear plastic carafe turned out to be lemonade.  The lilac flavor worked oddly well against the sour citrus.

They made quick work of the festival sweets, and Phichit produced his Dominion cards with a flourish.  Yuuri pulled up his favorite “quiet time” playlist on his phone, and they listened to soft music as they played.  The two roommates were evenly matched and knew each other’s preferred strategies intimately, but managed to keep themselves from getting too competitive.  By the time the sun had turned golden and was starting to hang lower in the sky, Yuuri found himself lying on his back with his head in his friend’s lap, idly watching the clouds.

“Feeling better?”  Phichit was running his fingers through Yuuri’s hair.

He considered the question.  “Yeah,” he sighed finally.  “I think this is exactly what I needed.  Thanks, Phich.”

“Pay me back by helping me drill my triple axel.”

“I’d do that anyway.”  Yuuri was warm and comfortable.  He was pleasantly full of wonderful food, he’d won their little Dominion tournament by a single match – and now didn’t have to do the dishes for three weeks – and Phichit’s fingernails on his scalp were halfway to lulling him to sleep.  There was only one thing keeping the day from being utterly perfect.

“Do you mind if I text King?”  Then he winced.  Way to go, Katsuki.  Phichit plans an entire afternoon to cheer you up, and all you can think about is someone else.

But Phichit only nodded.  “I was hoping you would,” he said.  “Guilt/avoidance spirals aren’t a good look on anyone.”

*            *            *

Three days ago.

Deltatangofoxtrot: then she dragged us out to applebee’s

StandardDeviation: Ew.

Deltatangofoxtrot: ikr?  we’re in nola where like three different cuisines were fuckin invented and she wants to eat some crappy chain food we can get back home

KingElsa: That’s a crime against travel.  What’s the point in going places if you’re not going to sample the local specialties?

Deltatangofoxtrot: i mean i still proposed

lukewarm_mess: wait, what

Deltatangofoxtrot: we were already there and all

Deltatangofoxtrot: i figure i have our entire lives to teach her the right way to food and also tourist

KingElsa: !!!

StandardDeviation: Woah, grats man

lukewarm_mess: congratulations!

KingElsa:   ♡ ＼ ( ￣ ▽ ￣ ) ／ ♡

Deltatangofoxtrot: ty ty XD

KingElsa:  ( ﾉ ´ ヮ `) ﾉ *: ･ﾟ

KingElsa: °˖ ✧◝ (^ ♡ ^) ◜✧ ˖°

lukewarm_mess: have you set a date yet?

Deltatangofoxtrot: nothing firm but we’re hoping for autumn

Deltatangofoxtrot: we met on halloween

StandardDeviation: You want to get on that right away then

lukewarm_mess: yeah definitely, reserve your venue at the very least

Deltatangofoxtrot: …

lukewarm_mess: my family is in the hospitality business and even in a small town we have scheduling conflicts

lukewarm_mess: because people wait til the last minute

Deltatangofoxtrot: is it too late to elope

lukewarm_mess: waiting drives the price of food and stuff up too because they have to make the suppliers scramble

StandardDeviation: It’s never too late to elope but

KingElsa: GASP

StandardDeviation: That has to be what you both want

KingElsa: NO ELOPING!!!

StandardDeviation: My wedding was just a courthouse thing with four people there

StandardDeviation: Then we went out to lunch at a nice cafe

StandardDeviation: It was what we wanted and it was the best day of my life

KingElsa: There should be dancing and cake and laughter

KingElsa And champagne!  And wonderful food

StandardDeviation: But not everyone is okay with that

KingElsa: And everyone should be there to celebrate.  EVERYONE!

StandardDeviation: *cough* Exhibit A *cough*

Deltatangofoxtrot: i don’t mind having a big thing, i just have no idea how to plan one

KingElsa: And my groom had better ransom me properly!

lukewarm_mess: whose wedding is this anyway  ( ￢ _ ￢ )

StandardDeviation: Nobody does fox, if the gods wanted us to know how to plan weddings they wouldn’t have given us the internet

Deltatangofoxtrot: i spent like two minutes googling and then had to eat a whole pint of cherry garcia

KingElsa: !  Is that a proposal, Mess???

StandardDeviation: My cousin just had a big event-style wedding, do you want me to ask her for links

Deltatangofoxtrot: omg i will be your best friend

Deltatangofoxtrot: i will fight ninjas for you

Deltatangofoxtrot: and nazis

Deltatangofoxtrot: and spiders

lukewarm_mess: not if you’re going to be all groomzilla at me, king

Deltatangofoxtrot: i will name my firstborn after you

StandardDeviation: Stan?  >.>

lukewarm_mess: what if I want something small

Deltatangofoxtrot: or devi if its a girl

StandardDeviation: Devi is pretty.  Okay, I approve

lukewarm_mess: family only, maybe on the beach

KingElsa: A hundred people?

StandardDeviation: I’ll PM you when she gets back to me

lukewarm_mess: twenty.  MAYBE.

Deltatangofoxtrot: srsly you are my hero

KingElsa: …Per side?

lukewarm_mess: in total

KingElsa: ( ｡ •́ ︿ •̀ ｡ )

KingElsa: You’re breaking my heart.

Deltatangofoxtrot: STICK TO YOUR GUNS MESS

KingElsa: Stay out of this, you… you elopement advocate!  My tender soul lies in pieces at Mess’ feet.  I can’t go on.

StandardDeviation: Oh lord

KingElsa: Bury me in silk and seed pearls!

KingElsa: Scatter rose petals and string quartets on my grave!

StandardDeviation: *facepalms at the sheer extra*

lukewarm_mess: we can have our dogs be ring bearers though

KingElsa: G A S P

KingElsa: *clasps hands together*

KingElsa: You do love me!

Deltatangofoxtrot: those two deserve eachother

lukewarm_mess: (⁄ ⁄>⁄ ω ⁄<⁄ ⁄)

StandardDeviation: *nod nod*

lukewarm_mess: anyway, back to the travel food thing…

lukewarm_mess: does anyone have any suggestions for good places to eat in chicago?

StandardDeviation: Summer trip?  Nice

lukewarm_mess: autumn trip, actually.  peach and i are making plans to drive out for a weekend

Deltatangofoxtrot: superdawg for hot dogs

Deltatangofoxtrot: giordanos or pequods for pizza

StandardDeviation: I’ve never been, sorry

KingElsa: I always make it a point to go to Alinea.

Deltatangofoxtrot: O.o

KingElsa: The chef there is a mad genius.

Deltatangofoxtrot: damn king how much do you think a poor college student can afford

lukewarm_mess: oh, is it pricey?

Deltatangofoxtrot: does the pope shit in the woods?

lukewarm_mess: ?????

StandardDeviation: He means yes, mess

lukewarm_mess: um.  ok?

Deltatangofoxtrot: like really yes

KingElsa: Maybe a bit.  It’s worth every penny, though.

lukewarm_mess: wait

lukewarm_mess: does that mean he does though?

KingElsa: I… also don’t understand that phrase.

lukewarm_mess: i mean why would he go outside when he lives in a palace or something

lukewarm_mess: doesn’t make any sense

StandardDeviation: It’s just a stupid saying, guys

StandardDeviation: A mixup of two other stupid sayings.  It was in a movie

KingElsa: English is weird.

lukewarm_mess: *nods* ESL SOLIDARITY

iamworthy: Excuse you, AMERICAN English is weird.  PROPER English is normal

iamworthy: *goes back to lurking*

KingElsa: *fistbumps Mess*

lukewarm_mess: AESL SOLIDARITY?

iamworthy: Also cheers, fox

Deltatangofoxtrot: ty ^^

KingElsa: Actually, I’ll be in Illinois myself in October.  I need to make reservations before they get booked up – thanks for reminding me!

Yuuri blinked at the chat window.  What were the chances that he’d be in the same state as King, at the same time?  Not that his Skate America schedule would leave much room for socializing, but… maybe?  If the timing worked out?  If they were close enough to drive?  If he and Phichit left a day or so early, or stayed a bit late?

He tapped out a private message before he could second-guess himself.

/msg KingElsa what dates, if you don’t mind me asking

*KingElsa>> 20-27 Oct.  Why?

He sucked in a breath.  The competition was scheduled for the weekend of the twenty-fifth.  Their visits would absolutely overlap.  And if KingElsa was talking about making reservations at a Chicago restaurant, he must surely be staying in the general area of the city, right?

/msg KingElsa that’s when we’re planning on being there

Do you want to meet up somewhere, Yuuri didn’t type.  Wow what a crazy coincidence, was keyed and deleted.  Do you like me, because I think I might like you and Phichit even agrees because he stopped giving me a hard time about you and he only stops teasing when he doesn’t want to scare me off of something… yeah, no.  All the no.  Nope, even.  Hell nope.

Yuuri realized that he had been staring into space for over a minute.  It was too long a pause.  Whatever he said was going to be weird and awkward now.  Just like Yuuri was weird and awkward.  The little blinking cursor was mocking him.  King hadn’t replied yet, either.  He must be waiting for Yuuri to finish his thought.  Which was a problem because Yuuri was waiting for Yuuri to finish his thought.  His ears were burning, his breaths starting to come shallow and quick.  Say something! he commanded himself in desperation.  Anything!

Yuuri closed his eyes, held his breath, and keyboard mashed.

/msg KingElsa do you think you want ot meet for coffe emaybe

And he waited.

KingElsa didn’t reply.

Of course he doesn’t want to see you in real life, the cruel little voice of his anxiety whispered.  He’s rich and successful, the top of his field he said.  The restaurants he goes to have actual chefs and menus with no prices listed.  He even manages his depression without help.  And who are you?  You’re just a mediocre skater with three prescriptions and a therapist, whose college professor who is flunking you for missing too much class.  You’re too jittery, too awkward, too shy, too boring, too everything.  Too Yuuri.

His hands were shaking as he typed, his vision starting to blur around the edges as he hit the enter key, but he wasn’t so far into his head yet that he didn’t notice the two new lines displayed on the screen.

*KingElsa>> I’m sorry but I really don’t think I’ll be able to

*lukewarm_mess>> KingElsa:  you know hwat never mind so rry it was a dumb idea im sorry i’pp just go now

Well.  There was really nothing more to be said, was there?

Yuuri slammed the laptop lid closed just as the panic crashed over him like a wave.

*            *            *

“Don’t look,” Yuuri cautioned Phichit before taking a deep breath and opening his SMS app.  There were a lot of messages from KingElsa.  He’d known that King was texting him; it was why he had shut off his notifications.

“Of course not,” Phichit huffed in mock offense.  He had already stuffed his earbuds into his ears and pulled up something to watch on YouTube, but he continued his slow petting of Yuuri’s hair.  He really was the best friend ever.

Yuuri deliberately didn’t read the flood of texts that he’d received over the last few days.  At best they’d be super nice and he’d feel even worse about ignoring them.  At worst…

Even Yuuri’s broken brain had a hard time believing that KingElsa needed seventy six individual text messages just to tell him to go fuck himself.

But what to write?  Sorry I’m a human trash fire but you knew that when you met me, unless you didn’t actually believe me at the time, in which case: surprise!?  No.  That sounded like he was fishing for reassurance, and Yuuri wanted things with King to go back to what they had been before, not force the man to be kind to him out of obligation.  It was best to just keep things short and honest.

(a/n: Apparently I can’t right-justify in tumblr?  so quick and dirty hack: Mess’ texts are in italics.  King’s are in bold.  Sorry, going away now)

hi

I know it’s super late in Europe so you’re probably asleep

but I wanted to say I’m sorry for freaking out at you

It was odd how tapping out three little sentences could make him feel so much better.  Yuuri had built the situation up in his head until it was a towering monster of guilt and fear and then he hid from it, even though he knew from long experience that running away could only feed that particular type of beast and make it stronger.  It wasn’t slain yet – wouldn’t be until after King saw his messages and they were able to talk, probably tomorrow – but just facing it was the hard part.

“It’s getting late,” he told Phichit, raising his voice slightly to be heard over whatever his friend was watching.  “We should probably call Uber Mike to come get us, maybe get some dinner?”

“Dinner with Uber Mike?” Phichit was back to teasing him, and all was right with the world.  “I didn’t realize you two had hit it off so well!”

“Funny.  You know what I—”  A new word bubble appeared on the screen.

Mess!!

<3 <3 <3

I missed you!

Phichit rolled his eyes fondly at Yuuri’s expression and went back to his video.

I’m so sorry

I missed you too

You don’t need to apologize.

I just got really nervous

about asking you to meet irl

it’s totally okay if you don’t want to

I did!

I mean, I do.

It’s just… complicated?

I understand complicated

My time is pretty booked while I’m in the US

Even when I’m free I’m already going out with a bunch of people

and I know you don’t do crowds.

well I feel dumb

If/when we do meet I want you to feel comfortable!

Don’t feel dumb.

I just can’t help thinking that there’s no way someone like you could be interested

in someone like me

You are many things, but you have never been dumb!

many things like…

a mess?

The lukewarmest of messes! <3

I had to look that word up when we met, you know.

Your English is better than mine.

And I never went to university at all, much less had a double major!

So you’re super smart and hardworking.

And you can dance better than me.

you’ve never seen me dance

Whose fault is that, I wonder.

it’s embarrassing

I don’t want you to think badly of me

Solnyshko.  That is NEVER going to happen.

I know. I do

I just

wait what does that word mean

It means sunshine.  Because that’s what you are.

if you say so

I do say so!

But…

but?

Ah, and there it was.  The ‘but’.  The pet name was so sweet – and Yuuri had never been given a nickname before – but King was just using it to cushion a blow.  He had always been so kind and thoughtful that way.

The dreaded ellipsis kept appearing and disappearing below Yuuri’s last comment.  King must be struggling for words.

To tell the honest truth, I’m also kind of scared to meet face-to-face.

Yuuri let out the breath he’d been holding.  Was that all?

that makes total sense

I could be an axe murderer

No!  I trust you.

I trust you and I do want to meet you one day.

And see you dance!

I just…

More ellipses.  A longer pause.

I don’t want things to change between us.

And I’m terrified that they will.

Even if you don’t see me any differently other people will want a piece of you

And I’m selfish, Mess

I want to keep you to myself for as long as I can

Yuuri blinked.  Who was this man?

Are you an idol?

A movie star?

Haha no, nothing like that

But I do model, among other things

It’s a rather public lifestyle

I understand

Of course he did.  Even a dime-a-dozen skater had to deal with publicity when competing on the international stage.  Public interviews and sponsorships were all part of the package.  Yuuri had even featured in a few magazine ads of his own, including one very embarrassing Calvin Klein ad in which he’d worn a pair of jeans so tight they might as well have been painted on.  Nothing else; just jeans and a smile.  The thought of what King – or anyone! – might think of him if that was their reference…

He shuddered in sympathy.

let’s make a deal then

you be king and I’ll be mess

no expectations

no judgment

just us

No dance videos??

no

well

:/

maybe someday

Nobody’s ever asked me to just be me before, you know

I’ll probably be awful at it

you seem to be doing just fine to me

^^

“Whoops, our ride’s here!”  Phichit was apologetic, but Yuuri smiled at him as he rolled off the blanket so that it could be folded and stowed in the now-empty cooler.

I have to go, uber is here.  ttyl?

Of course.  I’m always around!

Sparing a last fond glance at his phone, Yuuri blacked the screen with his thumb and slid the device into his pocket.  He and Phichit kept a companionable silence as they walked back through the empty park to go meet their driver – Uber Christina this time – and head home.

If Yuuri had remembered to turn his notifications back on, he would have seen King’s final two texts well before dinner, before Mario Kart, before toothpaste and pajamas and goodnight hugs.  It was just as well.  The sharp intake of breath, the hands covering his mouth, the tears prickling his eyes; these were private things, and not to be shared with strangers or even beloved friends.

You’re one of my reasons, you know.

Good night, solnyshko.

<Part 6> 

[midnightcindy]

Long Day

Albert mafia au! Fluffy fluffy floof.

Albert slumped in his office chair, swiveling back and forth lazily as he sank into the plush leather. He blew out a harsh breath, tossing the brass knuckles onto his sleek, black desk. He didn’t even bother to watch for the blood that coated the metal item to skitter across the table; instead he leaned his head back in his seat and tore off his glasses. He peeled off his black leather gloves- now ruined from the unsuccessful interrogation that he had just returned from- and tossed them beside the brass knuckles. His cool, clammy palms met his eyes, and he pressed them against the ache that was forming in his skull.

The door to his office swung open. Sid strolled in quietly, and Albert did not turn. Silence ensued, until Albert sighed. “Taken care of, then?”

Sid nodded. “Yeah. We dragged the body out to the pier. The twins are taking him to the middle of the ocean by now.”

Albert dragged his hands down his face, and slammed one fist on the table. “You said he would talk.”

Sid ducked his head, his voice low. “Sorry, boss. I heard him say it with my own ears just a few days ago. He said he was embezzling money from our business. I swear.”

“Well until you find any other, convincing evidence that Louis Howard was a lying bastard,” Albert said, swiveling to face Sid, his eyes pointed and dark, “consider yourself on probation.”

Sid took a deep breath. “Boss, I know that he was-”

“I don’t give a righteous damn what you know,” Albert said, standing menacingly as he seethed. “Because of you, I just lost one of my best account trackers. Do you know how much profit we could lose if you were wrong?”

Albert snatched his glasses from his desk, and slipped them up his nose with a flash. “Find me that information Sid. Good luck doing it with Howard dead.” Albert buttoned his jacket as he walked past Sid, heading for the door. “Now get out of my office.”

Sid hurriedly shuffled out, speeding down the hall until he was out of sight. Albert cracked his knuckles, trying to stretch his sore wrists. He shifted his glasses up again, and turned to walk down the long hall to the elevators.

Before he had walked two steps, another voice called out to him. “Mr. Burckhardt, I need you to take a look at these contracts.”

Albert breathed sharply through his nose, closing his eyes slowly as he turned toward the other man. “Nico,” Albert said. “It can wait until tomorrow.”

“I understand Mr. Burckhardt, but it’s something urgent with the Stein shipment. Mr. Wagner wants the product increased.”

Albert furrowed his brows, the ache returning behind his eyes. “By how much?”

Nico pursed his lips, tucking the stack of papers closer to his chest. “Double.”

Albert clenched his teeth, and knocked the stack of papers out of Nico’s hands. The papers went fluttering around the hall, and Nico quickly scurried to pick them up. “Double,” Albert seethed in disbelief. “That shipment is scheduled to go out in a week. What, does Byron think my production is run by fucking Santa Claus? I can’t produce another 10 kilos of cocaine in three days.”

“I- I’m sorry, Mr. Burckhardt,” said Nico, scrambling to pick up the loose contracts. “Someone called today and all I told them was that I would inform you, I didn’t make any promises!”

Albert pinched the bridge of his nose. At least Nico had done his part correctly. Still, Albert shoved past the younger man hard enough that he toppled back into the wall, nearly spilling the gathered papers once again. “I will deal with Byron tomorrow,” Albert shot as he strode purposefully toward the elevators. “Tell him if he wants anything from me, he can wait to do so in the morning.”

Nico nodded, and flitted off around the corner. Albert pressed the button on the elevator. But before the doors could open with a predictable chime, his pocket began to buzz. Stepping onto the lift, Albert swiped out his phone and raised it to his ear. “Burckhardt.”

“Boss,” a smooth voice said from the other line.

Albert massaged the back of his neck as the metallic elevator began to descend. “Don’t waste my time Leo, you’d better have some good news.”

“Well,” Leo said, a ghost of a laugh in his tone. “I have something like that. Louis isn’t dead yet.”

Albert almost slammed his head against the wall of the elevator. “What.”

“Yeah,” Leo said, the sound of gargled screams in the background. “Turns out your beating took him right to the edge, but as soon as we dropped him in the water he started splashing like crazy. I think we can get some more out of him if you just come-”

“I hired you and your brother for a certain set of skills, Leo,” Albert spat into the phone. “If you have any god damned sense left in your skull, you’ll put your talents in persuasion to use and GET ME MY INFORMATION.”

Leo’s voice shifted after Albert screamed into the phone. “Yes sir. Of course, boss,” he said seriously.

The elevator doors popped open, and Albert walked across the marble floor of the lobby. “Handle this on your own. Tomorrow I expect a very positive report. Now unless you want to join Louis in his current state of business, I suggest you not call me again.”

        Albert angrily shoved his phone back into the breast pocket of his coat, and shot a dangerous look at the receptionist. She quickly ducked her head, lowering herself until she was nonexistent in her seat.

        It was raining outside, the dark clouds in the late evening sending sheets of harsh rain down to the city streets below. Albert ducked into the rain, jogging to the car that was waiting to take him anywhere he wanted. “Evening, Mr. Burckhardt,” the driver said. “Where to?”

        “Home,” Albert sighed, resting his head against the plush seating. He closed his eyes, listening to the sound of the rain hitting the metal roof. The ache behind his eyes wouldn’t go away, swirling with the hassle of the day.

        His key neatly fitted into the security lock in the elevator, Albert pressed the button to take him to the top floor. When the doors opened, he stepped inside, his shoes touching the echoing tile of the penthouse. He tossed his keys onto the side table, and they clattered along the dark wood loudly.  

“Al! Quiet,” a voice whispered fiercely.

Albert’s gaze shifted to the living room, where a woman sat holding a bundle in her arms. Baby toys were strung haphazardly throughout the rich living room, a trail of evidence to the messy-haired, spit-covered, exhausted looking woman sitting precariously on the recliner. Her eyes were wide, staring warning signals into her husband’s expression.

She rocked the bundle back and forth gently. “Don’t wake the baby.”

Albert smiled softly, the ache behind his eyes fading to a small buzz. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered, slipping off his shoes as quietly as possible. He slinked his sports jacket from his shoulders, and laid it on the couch. Walking to his wife, he crouched next to her chair, meeting her eyes. “Hey Vanessa. How long as she been like this?”

“An hour,” Vanessa replied softly. “An hour of sweet, quiet bliss.”

Albert smiled; suppressing the chuckle he felt bubbling from his chest. “Has she been giving you trouble today?”

As if in response, the baby woke up, and instantly began screaming.

The woman holding the little girl slumped back in her seat, eyes closing tightly. “Yes,” she responded.

“Here,” Albert said, rolling up his sleeves. He reached out and took the bundle from his wife’s arms. “You’ve had a long day. You could use a break.”

Vanessa allowed him, offering only a small protest. “You’ve had a long day too,” she argued.  

Albert shushed his daughter’s cries, speaking to her sweetly as he carried her around the living room. “Not at all,” he said, toying with the little girl’s hands, her tiny fingers wrapping around his thumb. “It was actually a pretty slow day.”

“Really,” Vanessa said, breathing steadily as she stretched out her back. “It’s been hell here.”

“I can see the wreckage,” Albert said, stepping on a toy. The baby’s cries declined, and soon she was sound asleep once again.

Albert’s wife tossed her hands in the air, surrendering to the victor of today’s battle for dominance. “Fucking baby whisperer,” she breathed.

Albert chuckled, swaying his way back to his wife’s side. He let go of their daughter with one arm, and encircled Vanessa’s waist with it. He pulled her to his side, and leaned down to press a slow kiss to her lips.

Vanessa pulled back, grabbing onto Albert’s hand. She raised it to her line of vision, and knowingly, pointed to the swelling along his knuckles. “A ‘slow day’, huh?”

Albert tugged his hand away and returned it to the duty of cradling the sleeping baby against his chest. “Don’t worry about it.”

“Give her back.” Vanessa tried taking the baby from her husband, but Albert only shuffled away.

“No, you need rest. You work just as hard as I do.” Albert made his way toward the back of the apartment, walking down the hall toward the baby’s room.

Vanessa followed him. “Al,” she said. “You can’t spend all day dealing with God-knows-what, only to come home and have even more work to do.”

Albert shouldered the door to the nursery open, making his way inside the pale lilac room. He walked to the crib, and made gentle work of laying the baby down on the cushion. The little girl gurgled happily, fidgeted, and quieted back into sleep.

Albert turned to his wife, standing in the doorway. “I told you Ness, I’m fine.”

Vanessa shut the door behind them, following Albert as he once again walked back down the hall and turned toward the kitchen. “Al, you’re working yourself into the ground. Please, let me take care of you.” She reached out and caught Albert’s hand, tugging him back toward her. Raising his coarse hand to her lips, she pressed a light kiss over the bruising skin.

Albert conceded, turning his hand to palm his wife’s cheek. “All right,” he sighed. “It’s been a long day.”

“I know,” she said, pulling him down into her embrace. Vanessa wrapped her arms around Albert’s neck, letting him bury his face into her shoulder.

As Albert sighed against his wife’s thrumming pulse, he felt the tension from his shoulders melt as easily as his arms encircled her waist. He pulled back, heat rising in his chest as their noses touched. Albert closed his eyes, leaning forward in the hopes of a kiss.

Then, another bout of wailing drifted from the end of the hall.

Vanessa banged her head against Albert’s chest. “It never ends,” she said, her words muffled by Albert’s dress shirt, to which she so desperately clung.

“I’ve got her,” said Albert, pulling away from Vanessa.

“No,” she said tiredly, lacing her fingers in Albert’s. She smiled sweetly, bags under her eyes softened by the warm light in her irises. “Together.”

Albert grinned, kissing his wife’s temple. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Victor’s Overflowing Novelty Date (Upcoming)

🍒 Warning: This post contains spoilers for content not yet released in EN 🍒

Listen well. This is my answer.

Translator(s): @lys-lilac​

When tidying up the office, I discover many “expired” items, and some even cause me to feel tiny regrets. At this moment, I bump into Victor, who has come over to help. I wonder how he views “shelf life”...

-

“You were the one who gave me the snacks and plush toys. Of course I’d keep them properly.”

“What about these two movie tickets?”

Looking at the two tickets, I scratch my cheek in slight guilt.

“I originally wanted to invite you to watch it with me, but I got the date wrong...”

“In order to draw a lesson from this so that I’d wouldn’t miss another date with you, I decided to keep them.”

Victor arches his brows. “If you keep so many old things, what will you do when there are new gifts in the future?”

“I’ll always make space to store your gifts!”

“You truly refuse nothing.”

“You’re free to deal with the things that are given to you. But there’s no need to be reluctant to part with them.”

[the-graves-family]

VICTOR

 OLYMPIANS AESTHETIC MEME

 APHRODITE: laughter-loving. sweet smiles. dressed in silk and satin. flower in their hair. sees the world as a runway. unapologetically sexual. the sea washing their ankles. in love with love.   stirrer of passion. cunning concealed by painted lips. secret daggers. doves. revolution in their kiss. delighting in the waves. flirtatious winks. strolling along the beach. staring wistfully from a balcony. this is how to be a heartbreaker. wants to be adored. gets turned on by danger.

 APOLLO: glitz and glamour. art galleries. turning the volume up. being made of gold. neatly-organized music sheets. notebooks filled with poetry. bathing in the sunlight. the powerful urge to create. collecting vinyl records. beautiful cover of wonder wall. playing multiple instruments. tasting like sunshine. healing touch. speaking in prophecies. smile mingled with wrath. shunning lies. sporting shades. hanging out at music festivals with their friends.     sleeps naked. arrow to the heart. paint brushes. probably has a tinder account.

 ARES: armed for battle. wants to raise a dog with their significant other. soft spot for children.     gives piggyback rides. scarred body. blood on their hands and face. willing to fight the world for the ones they love. fights against injustice. warm hugs. well-worn combat boots. boxing gloves. bandages wrapped around bruised knuckles. fist raised in protest. ignites revolutions.    fear is a prison. more sensitive than what their tough shell would have you think. exhausted. damaged goods. force to be reckoned with. red roses. curses under their breath.

 ARTEMIS: keen sense of a hunter. freckles like constellations on their skin. piercing eyes. disheveled braid. moonlight peeking through the shadows. the calm of the forest at night. lying on the grass and staring at the stars. mother doe and her fawn. protecting their kin. the moon shimmering on a still lake. quiver full of arrows resting against the bark of a tree. running with wolves.  bonding while circled around a campfire. not being much of a people person. arrow hitting a target. popping egos. patience on 3%. touches heaven and returns howling.

 ATHENA: discerning gaze. unreadable face. quiet museums. owl perched on their finger. armor that intimidates. eye for architecture. plays the sims for the sole purpose of building   houses. studied the blade while everyone else was busy getting laid. huge fan of logic. loves brain teasers, ancient buildings. sweaters in neutrals and cool colors. hair done up. can kill you with their brain. heads to the library often to research. sharpened pencils. abs that can cut steel. stoic statues. pottery classes.

 DEMETER: soil-covered hands. smile that can bloom flowers. skin loved by the sun. being the mom-friend. can lift you and your friends. flowers kept in the pockets of overalls. takes pride in their beautiful garden. speaks to their plants. leaves rustling in the wind. stalks of wheat. picking fruit. greenhouses. heart as strong as a mountain. values simplicity. daisies dotted across a collarbone. curls crowned with flowers. folded pile of sweaters in warm hues. pulling out fresh-baked bread out of the oven and the smell wafting through the air.

 DIONYSUS: drunk shitposter. on their sixth glass of wine before you’ve even finished your second. seductive smirks. untamed curls. rich fabrics on dark skin. sleek-furred panthers. theater masks. stage productions. receiving a standing ovation. rose caught between their teeth. being the baby of the bunch. wild parties that last from sundown to sunup. creeping vines. inspiring loyalty. grand opera houses. masquerade balls. rolls of film. shattered chandeliers with broken glass scattered across the wine-spilled floor. pouring champagne into flutes. lives for the applause.

 HEPHAESTUS: the calloused hands of someone who knows labor. sweaty brow. flame burning in their eyes. inventive mind. broad shoulders. steampunk goggles. nuts and bolts stored away in little boxes. ashes. striking a match. blueprints for future projects. fixing up a busted-up car and giving it cool upgrades. wrestles with bitterness. work boots have seen better years. wrinkled plaid shirts. iron melted in blazing fire. huge jackets. crafting masterpieces. greased-stained overalls. fascination with robotics. pain is fuel. stack of weaponry. even their muscles have muscles.

 HERA: resting bitch face. dressed to the nines. cows grazing on a pasture. cool rain. loving and hating fiercely. hand clutching a string of pearls. large chandelier with glittering crystals. plays the sims for the sole purpose of killing off their sims. romance to realism. pictures of the sky while flying on a plane. files that under fuck it. downs glasses of wine as they relax with a scented bubble bath and netflix. like their selfie or you’re grounded. knows 57 convenient ways to murder a man. dark eyes that penetrate your soul. marble and gold.

 HERMES: devil-may-care smile. always up-to-date on the latest technology. will steal your french fries. does it for the vine. shitposter. puts googly eyes on everything. meme hoarder. long drives on the highway. ma and pop diners. spontaneous road trips. folded maps. fingers dancing across the keyboard of a laptop. shooting hoops on the basketball court. chatting up strangers as you all journey to your own destinations. goes jogging in the morning. mixes red bull with coffee. menace on april fool’s. hoodies and sneakers.

 POSEIDON: storm with skin. colorful coral reefs. waves crashing against the shore. stroking the soft fur of a cat. their heart pounding as their horse’s gentle trot speeds into a gallop. tousled locks. clothes smeared with paint. owns several sketchbooks yet always yearns to own more. leather jackets. fondness for diy projects. handwriting that flows across the page. nimble fingers playing the strings of a violin. velvety singing voice that haunts your dreams. mood as ever-changing as the sea. the roar of a motorcycle. compass with a spinning arrow.

 ZEUS: thunder in their heart. running on coffee. flash of lightning. natural charisma. eloquence. badass in a nice suit. aficionado of history. force of nature. lenny face. nightmare-filled nights. proud arm around their lover’s waist. high-rise buildings. planes soaring through a cloudless sky. technician on the piano. maintains order. strong handshake. juggling multiple events on their busy schedule with ease. expensive watch.

 Muse/OC Aesthetic  

Rules: bold any which apply to your OC/Muse; remember to repost; feel free to add to the list.

 [COLORS]

 red. brown. orange. yellow. green. blue. purple. pink. black. white. teal. silver. gold. grey. lilac. metallic. matte. royal blue. strawberry red. charcoal grey. forest green. apple red. navy blue. crimson. cream. mint green. cobalt blue. lime green. beige.

 [ELEMENTS]

 fire. ice. water. air. earth. rain. snow. wind. moon. stars. sun. heat. cold. steam. frost. lightning. sunlight. moonlight. dawn. dusk. twilight. midnight. sunrise. sunset. dewdrops. magic.

 [BODY]

 claws. long fingers. fangs. teeth. wings. tails. lips. bare feet. freckles. bruises. canine. scars. scratches. wounds. burns. spikes. feathers. webs. eyes. hands. sweat. tears. feline. chubby. curvy. short. tall. normal height. muscular. lean. piercing. tattoos. lithe. moles. dimples.

 [WEAPONS]

 fists. sword. dagger. spear. arrow. hammer. shield. poison. guns. axes. throwing axes. whips. knives. throwing knives. pepper sprays. tasers. machine guns. slingshots. katanas. maces. staffs. wands. powers. magical items. magic. rocks. mud balls. pyre. teeth. rifles. words.

 [MATERIALS]

 gold. silver. platinum. titanium. diamonds. pearls. rubies. sapphires. emeralds. amber. amethyst. metal. iron. rust. steel. glass. wood. porcelain. paper. wool. fur. lace. leather. silk. velvet. denim. linen. cotton. charcoal. clay. stone. asphalt. brick. marble. dust. glitter. blood. dirt. mud. smoke. ash. shadow. carbonate. rubber. synthetics. jade.

 [NATURE]

 grass. leaves. trees. bark. roses. daisies. tulips. lavender. petals. thorns. seeds. hay. sand. rocks. crystals. roots. flowers. ocean. river. meadow. forest. desert. tundra. savanna. rainforest. caves. underwater. coral reef. beach. waves. space. clouds. mountains. poppies. galaxies. stardust. sky.

 [ANIMALS]

 lions. wolves. eagles. owls. falcons. hawks. swans. snakes. turtles. ducks. bugs. spiders. crickets. bees. birds. whales. dolphins. fish. sharks. horses. cats. dogs. rabbits. praying mantises. crows. ravens. mice. lizards. werewolves. unicorns. pegasus. dragons. rats. livestock. foxes. bluebirds. deer. halla.

 [FOODS/DRINKS]

 sugar. salt. bitter. candy. bubblegum. wine. champagne. hard liquor. beer. coffee. tea. spices. herbs. apple. orange. lemon. cherry. strawberry. watermelon. vegetables. fruits. meat. fish. pies. desserts. chocolate. cream. caramel. berries. nuts. cinnamon. burgers. burritos. pizza. french fries. ambrosia. honey.

 [HOBBIES]

 music. art. watercolors. gardening. smithing. sculpting. wood carving. painting. sketching. fighting. writing. composing. cooking. sewing. training. dancing. acting. singing. martial arts. self-defense. electronics. technology. cameras. video cameras. video games. computer. phone. movies. theater. history. libraries. books. comic books. magazines. cds. records. vinyls. cassettes. piano. violin. guitar. electric guitar. bass guitar. harmonica. harp. woodwinds. brass. bells. playing cards. poker chips. chess. dice. motorcycle riding. eating. flight. climbing. camping. running. freerunning. exploring. partying. yoga.

 [STYLE]

 lingerie. armor. cape. dress. tunic. vest. shirt. sweater. boots. heels. leggings. trousers. jeans. skirt. jewelry. earrings. necklace. bracelet. ring. pendant. hat. flower crown. crown. circlet. helmet. scarf. brocade. cloaks. corsets. doublet. chest plate. gorget. bracers. belt. sash. coat. jacket. duster. trenchcoat. hood. gloves. socks. masks. cowls. braces. watches. glasses. sunglasses. visor. eye contacts. makeup. ties. uniform. fancy shoes. leather jacket. sport underwear.

 [MISC]

 balloons. bubbles. cityscape. light. dark. candles. war. peace. money. power. percussion. clocks. photos. mirrors. pets. kisses. diary. fairy lights. madness. sanity. sadness. bittersweet. happiness. luck. optimism. pessimism. loneliness. family. friends. assistants. co-workers. enemies. loyalty. smoking. drugs. kindness. love. hugs. revenge. lust. regrets. passion. spontaneity. potty mouth. recklessness. practicality. hope.

 BOLD ANY FEARS WHICH APPLY TO YOUR MUSE.

 ITALICIZE WHAT MAKES THEM UNCOMFORTABLE.

 the dark. fire. open water. deep water. being alone. crowded spaces. confined spaces. change. failure. war. loss of control. powerlessness. prison. blood. drowning. suffocation. public speaking. natural animals. the supernatural. heights. death. dying. intimacy. rejection. abandonment. loss. the unknown. the future. not being good enough. scary stories. speaking to new people. poverty. loud noises. being touched.

 Unnecessary Detailed Dislikes

 Muse name: Victor Graves

Least favorite nickname: Vicky

Least favorite color: Orange

Least favorite season: Summer

Least favorite weather: Hot and wet, typhoon

Least favorite — hot or cold: Hot

Least favorite holiday: Easter

Least favorite food: Pineapple

Least favorite flavor: pineapple

Least favorite drink: Gin

Least favorite scent: Petroleum

Least favorite sound: Children arguing with each other

Least favorite movie: King Kong

Least favorite school subject or area of study: Math

Least favorite aspect of their job: Dealing with grieving families

Least favorite person: One of his old lawyer rivals.

Least favorite trait in others: Naivete

Least favorite place: Police stations

Least favorite thing to talk about: the family to strangers

Least favorite thing about themselves: he can be a little reckless sometimes and he hates that

Least favorite sexual position: on the side

Least favorite daily chore: cleaning the dishes

Least favorite style of clothing:  70s disco

Least favorite activity: gardening

 absent-minded | abusive  |  addict | adrenaline junkie |   aggressive  | aimless  |  alcoholic |  anxious  | arrogant  |  audacious |  bad liar  | bigmouth  |  bigot |  blindly loyal  | blunt   |  callous  | childish  |  chronic heroism  | cheater  | clingy  | clumsy  |  cocky |  codependent  | competitive |  corrupt  |  cowardly |  cruel  |  cynical  | delinquent  |  delusional |  dependent  | depressed |  deranged  | disloyal  |  ditzy |  egotistical  | envious  |  erratic |  fickle  | finicky  |  fixated |  flaky  | frail  |  fraudulent |  foul mouthed  | guilt complex  |  gloomy |  gluttonous  | gossiper  |  gruff  | grudge holding |  gullible  | hedonistic  |  humorless |  hypochondriac  | hypocritical | idealist  | idiotic  |  ignorant |  immature  | impatient |  incompetent  | indecisive  | insecure  | insensitive  |  lazy |  lewd  | liar  |  lustful | manipulative |  masochistic |  meddlesome  | melodramatic  |  money-loving |  moody  | naïve  |  nervous |  nosy  | ornery  |  overprotective  | overly sensitive   |  paranoid |  passive-aggressive  | perfectionist  |  pessimist |  petty  |  power-hungry  | proud  |  possessive |  pushover |  reckless |  reclusive  |  remorseless  | rigorous  |  sadistic  | sarcastic | senile  |  selfish |  self-destructive  | shallow  |  sociopathic  |  sore loser  | spineless  |  spiteful |  spoiled  | stubborn | suspicious  |tactless | temperamental  | timid  |  thief |  tone-deaf | traitorous |  unathletic |  ungracious  | unlucky   |  unsophisticated  | untrustworthy  |  vain  |  withdrawn |  workaholic

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Adorable Pets at Home Date Collection (Upcoming)

🍒 Warning: Contains spoilers for future content! 🍒

PV: here

Kiro’s Adorable Voice Date

You have to erase these little mistakes from your memory quickly.

Translator(s): @itaruchi-trash

-

Gavin’s Training Date

It’s a small problem. Leave it to me.

Translator(s): @cheri-translates

-

Lucien’s Helpless Date

There are many times when I wish to rely on you, not just this moment.

Translator(s): @xiaomoxu

-

Victor’s Thaw Date

Being able to find a playmate anywhere - is this the merit of a dummy?

Translator(s): @lys-lilac​

-

Shaw’s Staying at Home Date

I’m not a good-tempered person, but it depends on who the other party is.

Translator(s): @cheri-translates​

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Pet Dates Snippets

🍒 Warning: Detailed spoilers for content which has not been released in EN! 🍒

The dates from the Adorable Pets at Home Collection will only be released in November because additional gameplay is required to unlock them :’> In the meantime, @ayarou​ has kindly sent me official snippets so we can get a taste of what to expect!

You have to erase these little mistakes from your memory quickly.

[ Kiro’s Adorable Voice Date ]

Kiro and I are challenging ourselves to use Cello and Apple Boxes’ meows and barks to create a pet song. Unexpectedly, there are complications in the process of collecting these sounds. Even more unexpectedly, the thing that calms this storm turns out to be a new skill that Kiro just learnt...

Translator(s): @itaruchi-trash​

It’s a small problem. Leave it to me.

[ Gavin’s Training Date ]

An “uninvited guest” who freeloads on meals and even complains about them has arrived at the police station - a lost husky. After submitting a request for this “military assignment”, Gavin and I begin our journey of walking the dog...

Translator(s): @cheri-translates​

There are many times when I wish to rely on you, not just this moment.

[ Lucien’s Helpless Date ]

Lucien has a new project recently. Although he promised that he’d definitely eat and sleep punctually this time, he fails to do so. I can’t help but lose my temper at him. At this juncture, a playful stray kitten unexpectedly becomes our mediating cure...

Translator(s): @xiaomoxu​

Being able to find a playmate anywhere - is this the merit of a dummy?

[ Victor’s Thaw Date ]

It’s rare for Victor to ask me for help, and it actually involves taking care of a relative’s kitten? What kind of a special reason could give this “Walking Catnip” trouble?

Translator(s): @lys-lilac​

I’m not a good-tempered person, but it depends on who the other party is.

[ Shaw’s Household Date ]

Shaw and I have agreed to spend the weekend at home together. However, the puppy a friend entrusted to me, Spicy Stick, doesn’t seem to get along with Shaw...

Translator(s): @cheri-translates​

[cheri-translates]

Hi Cheri ! Are you or any other pages gonna translate the victor dates?

Not that I know of!

I can translate them if no one else does, but they will come last i.e. after all the Gavin / Shaw dates have been translated!

I know how it feels to look forward to reading a new date, so I didn’t put my blog down just in case another translator can bring them to the EN community sooner :>

Update: 

🍷 Victor’s date from the Golden Years series will be translated by  @itaruchi-trash !

🍷 His pet date and Novelty Date will be translated by @lys-lilac ~

[cheri-translates]

Hi ! Thank you for working so hard on translating, reading your blog is always the highlight of my day >< I was just wondering who’s going to translate Victor’s lilac date and his pet date :>

Hello~ ૮ ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶ ა @lys-lilac will be doing them!

She has noted that she will need some time to translate them🌹

[cheri-translates]

Hey Cheri !! Do you know when Victor’s lilac date comes out…?

Hello! It has already been released in CN, and @lys-lilac will be translating it (´꒳`)♡