#victoria is kind of a pawn here between them??

[pavlovianpanic]

nathan fighting mark quietly on victoria in the dark room / mark using this angle to get nathan to do what he wants and bring him the right girls / mark knowing there's still a niche market for a girl like victoria so it's not a waste / nathan actively always bringing up victoria because he relies on her, so mark knows she is a weakness, and sees them together is complicated

[elliemarchetti]

What if scenarios for red queen: What if Shade lived? What if Elara had survived? What if Maven had a kid with Iris? What if Cal had said no in king's cage? What if Montfort was involved with the scarlet guard before the events of red queen? What if Mare accepted Montfort's offer in glass sword? What if Mare wasn't captured by Maven? What if Maven survived? What if Tiberias Vl died before the events of red queen? What if Mare didn't fall into the arena? What if indeed.

Once I wrote a story called What If (you can find it in my old masterlist but I suggest not to read it  or do it lightly because my writing style and my english improved a lot since when I wrote it and I don’t really remember if it made sense) but unfortunately it doesn’t answer any of your questions as I have been  struck at chapter 4 for years so I will address your questions in a sort of bullet list that I couldn't wait to use (even if it doesn't seem to I love when things are well ordered).

What if Shade lived

Shade was a valuable asset for the Scarlet Guard, maybe the most valuable they had, and as it happened to George Martin with Robb Stark (as he said in an interview, he had to kill him off otherwise he would’ve conquered the Seven Kingdoms without all the drama that whoever read ASOIAF or watched GOT knows very well) Victoria Aveyard had to do the same, otherwise things would’ve been “too simple” for the good guys. His death shocked Mare and the readers very much, but I consider it extremely wasted as: 

we already knew how Mare mourned and missed him since she believed he was dead in RQ

although he remained her favorite their relationship had still changed, showing how even if two people love each other and are incredibly similar they can grow and take different paths even if in the same family

she was already scarred by other things and at the end of the series she would’ve been way more even without his death

Farley lost again someone she loved and we already know that her reaction to pain is anger.

To balance these points, and still leave the same psychological outcome in the characters, I think it would’ve made more sense if:

one of Mare's older brothers had died, leaving her wondering how things would’ve changed if she had prevented them from fighting as they’re Reds in a war full of people with abilities and leaving the Barrow’s still incomplete but with a different loss to manage 

the Colonel had died, leaving Farley to wonder if she couldn’t have fixed things before his premature departure and what would’ve changed with Clara’s birth (not to mention the fact that I like to imagine that after Clara they would’ve had another girl called Madeline and, after several years and long debates in Diana’s mind, a boy called Willis)

Either way, by analyzing more pratically what would’ve changed if Shade hadn't died, the first thing that comes to my mind is that Mare’s captivity in KC would’ve been way shorter, partly because of Shade's ability, partly because he and Cal would’ve come up with a plan in less than ten minutes and acting on their own, with Farley and Kilorn’s help, they would’ve rescued her. In general, KC and WS’s events would’ve taken much less time, to the point that I think they could’ve been a single book.

What if Elara had survived and what if Maven had a kid with Iris

There are two different options to this question: Elara survives and returns to the role she had in GS or she’s captured by the Scalet Guard. With Elara to force her son's hand, and, let's face it, reign in his place, as she has always been a puppeteer, her whispers the threads she used to move her puppets, Maven’s reign would’ve been much more dangerous. First of all, I don't think she would’ve ever allowed her son to publicly offend the Samos, with the possibility that they would turn against them, but she would’ve created another complex scheme to kill Evangeline by putting the blame on the Scarlet Guard or on Cal's allies, for then team up with the Cygnets anyway, although I think the alliance would’ve been far less shaky with her to manage it and Iris would’ve been the condescending queen necessary to allow Maven to have the heir who would’ve made his position on the throne safer. Knowing her thirst for power she would still have sinned of arrogance and once Cenra died she would’ve attacked Tiora, obviously always in a subtle way and by putting the blame on someone else, so that Maven's son would become heir to Norta and the Lakelands, creating a single, large state. Without Elara's whispers if Maven and Iris had had a child it would have been through an act that bordered on rape, and once things had gone as they went in WS I'm not sure Iris would’ve brought the baby with her in the Lakelands therefore he would’ve ended up exiled, as it happened in the past with children in uncomfortable positions, in Prairie. On the other hand, if Elara had survived but had been captured by the Scarlet Guard, she would’ve died anyway as I don't think that, although those closest to the Mare would’ve proposed it, an exchange would’ve ever been made between them, Command too conscious of her political power and of the danger that the woman's ability entailed.

What if Cal had said no in KC

Assuming you are talking about rejecting the crown, surely there would’ve been less romantic drama in WS, at least until Maven's death, but things would’ve been politically much more difficult since, if Cal had abdicated before his brother's death, Maven would’ve been the actual heir and it wouldn’t have helped anyone, so he should’ve accepted the crown anyway to convince the Silvers to join the cause and at the same time make Maven illegitimate while only a limited circle should’ve known that his effective intent was to abdicate once the kingdom was reunited, perhaps with a lot of signed documents as I can't imagine the Scarlet Guard base the outcome of the war on another Silver prince’s word after Maven’s betrayal. But if he had actually refused they would’ve had to fight not Maven’s kingdom but monarchy in general, therefore losing the support of many Silver, although I am convinced that they would still have been able to win, although probably with many more dead, thanks to the help from Montfort and a couple of allies convinced that Cal's decision was wise, probably the Lower Houses and common Silvers who would’ve benefited from the abolition of the monarchy and racial laws

What if Montfort was involved with the SG before RQ’s events

It would make complete sense because the SG’s purpose is to obtain a government like Montfort’s. Obviously, even in this case, things would’ve been much faster and much safer and the saga would’ve been much shorter, not to mention the fact that newbloods are not new there and therefore the SG could’ve started talking about Reds with abilities much earlier, which would’ve given Norta’s Red population much more courage.

What if Mare accepted Montfort's offer in GS

In hindsight, it would’ve made sense as they would’ve attacked Corros prison much better prepared, not to mention the fact that Mare is a wonderful trainer, so she would’ve had the best team ever. Also the electricon squad really has too little space in the saga while I would’ve liked to see them bond further.

What if Mare wasn't captured by Maven

Again there are several options: if Maven had captured the others but Mare had managed to escape she would still have tried to negotiate for that exchange, once she realized she had no other way to save them, while if he killed all of them the entire outcome of the war would’ve been different since Cal would’ve died leaving Maven as the rightful king, not to mention the profound psychological damage Mare would’ve faced after she left most of her friends, family and her boyfriend to die. The last option is that they weren’t intercepted at all and managed to get to the Choke, but the possible outcomes are too many to be analyzed and the various results would’ve incredibly modified the subsequent books in completely different ways. Honestly, if I can dream and not force Mare to endure captivity, I would’ve liked if she and others had managed to escape but someone, including a person she cared about but not Cal, since this would’ve made things more difficult, had been captured. Maven would try to organize some kind of exchange and Mare would accept but all the others would prevent her, showing her that she wasn’t selfish to save herself and reminding her that she isn’t only a weapon but also a powerful political pawn. Obviously Maven, keeping his word, would’ve killed the hostages and this would’ve hurt Mare but certainly less than being imprisoned at his mercy.

What if Maven survived

I think that @elane-in-the-shadows has written something about it and I recommend you take a look at her blog because I think it's exactly how things should’ve gone but if I'm wrong about the author and someone knows what fanfiction I'm talking about (where Maven escapes before Mare could find him) feel free to let me know and I’ll add the link here because it’s a masterpiece

What if Tiberias Vl died before RQ

If he died of natural causes just before RQ Cal would’ve been king and would’ve listened to what Julian claimed Elara did, and he would probably have read his mother's diary before, consequently exlingin her or killing her if he considered it the only possible option to please everyone without certainly considering that Maven could’ve acted against him as, and it’s stated repeated several times, Cal is definitely blind about his brother therefore the saga would’ve been mainly about Maven who wants revenge and consequently the throne for which his mother had fought so much and performed such horrible acts. I can already imagine Maven saying he can marry Evangeline in Cal’s place so that he can stay with Mare when he’s just plotting with Volo Samos for the Kingdom of the Rift to split from the rest of Norta and then launches a consequent attack to conquer it entirely, promising peace between their kingdoms and a legitimate throne for House Samos. If Tiberias VI died instead shortly after Maven’s birth Elara would’ve tried to control Cal as she did with Maven but according to the bloodline the regent would’ve been Julian, therefore it wouldn’t have ended well for her anyway, which is why I consider that the plan devised in RQ tremendously brilliant since it contemplates years of waiting but strikes at the right time, so much so that many High House believed the story woven by her and supported her son, at least as long as she was there to control him and make him seem less insane.

What if Mare didn't fall into the arena

If we want a similar story she could’ve shown her ability when she and Cal first met and they could’ve tried to analyze and understand it with Julian without Mare having to be Mareena and meet Maven, which, in the long run, could’ve only benefit her and at the same time she and Cal could still have fallen in love while she still had the opportunity to help the Scarlet Guard, while if the question you ask me is "what would have happened if Mare had become a maid anyway and had never shown her powers, or at least not immediately" I think she and Cal would’ve had a clandestine relationship and she would’ve used it to learn as many things as possible to report to the Scarlet Guard until a life or death situation would’ve triggered her ability, making historical events not very different from those of the saga but erasing Maven's interest in her if not as a weapon to weaken his brother.

[alj4890]

New Year's Eve

A Choices Fan Fiction of The Royal Romance, Red Carpet Diaries, and Perfect Match

A/N Oh my this thing is so long and still not finished, LOL! I believe I should have it completed with part three. Maybe an epilogue post. I have to stop now or this will end up beyond my control. But here again is some of @krsnlove​ ‘s favorite pairs in the stickiest of fluff worthy of a toothache.

Masterlist

@lxaah11​ @alleksa16​ @penguininapinktuxedo​ @blackcoffee85​ @stopforamoment​ @hopefulmoonobject​   @krsnlove​   @annekebbphotography​  @gibbles82​  @cora-nova​ @bella-ca​  @hopelessromantic1352​ . @sunflowergirl05​ @desiree-0816​ @greywitchyshots​ @lilyofchoices​ @moodyvalentinestories​ @emceesynonymroll​ @dr-nancy-house​ @aworldoffandoms​ @ab1901​ @pixieferry​ @flyawayboo​ @i-bloody-love-drake-walker​ .

Song: What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

Part 1

Part 2: The Anticipation

December 30th...

The Garden restaurant at The Four Seasons...

"You've got your gown, right?" Maxwell asked.

Amanda nodded while pouring her tea. She reached for a warm blueberry muffin to butter and nearly dropped it when she saw Thomas Hunt being led to a table.

"What is it?" Maxwell looked over his shoulder.

"Nothing." She quickly replied. "So, have you heard anymore about who has been invited?"

He nodded. "We have a conglomeration of diplomats, nobles,--"

"The usual." Amanda muttered.

"And artists--"Maxwell tried to continue.

"Naturally with Joelle's artistic streak." She muttered again.

"And people from Hollywood." He said in a rush before she could interrupt him again.

That caught her attention. "Really?"

"Yes." Maxwell reached for the pot of coffee. "Joelle and Hakim are friends with actors like Jessica Clark, and um, who is that guy that directed Victoria Fontaine in Meridian?"

"Thomas Hunt." Amanda replied, immediately looking over at the man.

Thomas picked up his coffee cup and looked around the restaurant. His eyes widened a moment when he met her hazel.

"Oh dear Lord." Amanda whispered.

"What?" Maxwell turned around again. He looked down at his shirt then touched his face. "Is something on me?"

"No." Amanda set her half eaten muffin down. "Excuse me a moment." She slid out of the booth and tried to not look over at Thomas as she walked toward the restroom.

She would have succeeded in appearing calm and collected if she hadn't tripped over a lady's purse and tumbled down the five steps leading out of the restaurant.

Please let me die, she silently prayed when she heard the gasps and exclamations around her.

"Are you hurt?"

She closed her eyes at the pain in her ankle and nodded. "I'm fine." She looked into Thomas's concerned face and tried to stand up. "I'm--" she gasped when she put weight on her right ankle.

"You're not." He argued. He gently helped her to sit down on the step.

Maxwell rushed over. "I heard the commotion and thought it might be you." He nodded a greeting toward Thomas. "How bad is it?"

Amanda wondered if her face would ever regain its once pale complexion. "I think I merely sprained my ankle. Nothing to be concerned with."

"Oh good." Maxwell exhaled. "Then you won't miss out on the ball."

Thomas frowned as he carefully pressed at the swelling already forming. "I believe you should have this looked at."

"I assure you I am well acquainted with sprains and that is definitely one. Just a rather painful one." She held onto the railing and pulled herself up. She then calmly reassured the lady who's purse she tripped over and the manager that she was fine.

"I think I will go to my room." She told Maxwell to finish eating and turned to Thomas once her friend left. "Please go and enjoy your breakfast. I will be fine as soon as I get to my room."

"You need to elevate it and add ice." Thomas told her.

"I will." She promised. She reached out and took his hand. "Thank you for coming to my aid." She felt his fingers grip her hand and looked down in surprise.

"I will escort you back." He told her. "Since your friend is now elbows deep in pancakes, you need someone to help you." He motioned to the manager and had him cancel his order.

"No!" Amanda said in a firm tone. She recognized he would not budge on this and spoke to the manager. "Have Mr. Hunt's breakfast sent up to my room." She gave her room number and insisted on it being charged to her. "And add a pot of tea, coffee, and a basket of pastries."

Thomas let go of her hand and placed his arm around her waist. "Lean on me instead of that ankle."

She nodded, suddenly speechless, and allowed him to escort her back.

___________________

Near a gangplank in Liberty State Park...

Riley yawned behind her hand as she stood on tiptoe to look at the passing people.

"This is crazy." She muttered. "I'm willing to give up precious sleep to take some guy to the Statue of Liberty just so he won't feel so alone."

"Riley!" Liam called out, smiling when he saw her.

So handsome, she thought. "Hey Liam!" She took his arm and motioned toward the ferry. "Ready to see her up close?"

"I am." He replied. He knew deep down he should tell her who he was, but he had enjoyed the conversation they had late into the early morning hours. He just wanted another moment to be around her sunny optimism. He wanted her to treat him as just some average, normal guy.

"Our boat awaits." She tugged him along the gangplank. "Are you up for some Lady Liberty trivia?"

"I am." Liam smiled as she became more animated to try and make the history more interesting.

"Well, did you know that the Statue of Liberty resembles the Roman goddess, Libertas, who represents freedom from oppression and tyranny?" She asked, reaching out to smooth his coat's lapels.

"I did not." His voice was a touch deeper with the emotion he felt for such an innocent yet significant action.

Liam watched her closely, taking in all her mannerisms. She had a tendency to use her hands when discussing something she was passionate about. She kept her body turned toward his as they chose a bench to sit. Her knees were pressed against his as she gave him her complete attention.

He set his arm along the back of seat while sharing bits of history he knew of the Statue. Her eyes never once left his face. She laughed at his humor and he found himself fall even more under her enchantment.

He had not known such simple happiness existed. It was if his true self had woken from a deep slumber and realized there was a world out there, one with someone like her.

_______________

On this same ferry...

"Here you go." Rashad handed Hana a cup of hot chocolate he had purchased.

"Thank you." She softly replied. She took a sip of the watery drink and tried not to grimace at its dull flavor. "That was very sweet of you."

"I remembered you saying it is one of your favorite treats." He leaned against the railing of the upper deck and looked out at the water, enjoying this moment with her.

"How thoughtful." She mumbled, cradling the cup between her chilled hands. "And completely unnecessary."

Rashad turned back in surprise. "I..."

"Please do not take me for a complete fool." Hana pleaded. She tried to keep her voice from wavering. Why did he have to be so incredibly kind? Why did she have to like everything about him? "This is not the first time one of my father's business associates has decided to, for lack of a better term, court me in hopes of making my father happy, thus reaching a satisfying deal."

"Hana, I didn't--" Rashad tried to explain.

"I'm not a pawn to be sacrificed in such a manner." She snapped. "I have feelings and I do not want you to continue to manipulate me through them. Let's just part ways once we are back on land and meet up at the party. I will assure my parents you were a perfect gentleman and everything will go well."

"Hana, the business deal is already completed. There are no more negotiations or hold outs or whatever else you're imagining." Rashad took her cup out of her hands and set it on a bench. He then took her hands in his. "Yes, your father coerced me into bringing you."

Hana tried to pull away, not wanting to hear anymore. Who would ever want her if her parents continued to do this?

"But..."Rashad continued, looking down at her beautiful face.

She looked up at him. "But?"

He tugged her closer. "If I had met you before he suggested our attending together, I would have coerced him into letting me bring you as my date."

________________

Outside the shops along 5th Avenue...

"We've found your dress, shoes, mask, and way too many other things. Where to now or am I free from shopping?" Damien asked.

"Umm..." Nadia stalled.

"Um, what?" He asked, eyes narrowing in suspicion. "Nadia, what are you about to talk me into?"

"A tea?" She replied timidly.

"As in buying you a glass of tea?" He asked.

"As in escorting me to an afternoon hosted by Duchess Joelle." Nadia looked up at him with a look of desperation. "It is for the artists she wishes to know better."

"Nadia." He dropped his head back. "Why am I just now hearing about this?"

"Because I love you and didn't want you to dread being around me as we shopped." She admitted.

Damien hefted her bags and waved down a taxi. "Get in." He ordered.

"Damien..." She bit her lip in worry.

"Well come on." His smirk formed. "We better get to my place so you can pick what I'm supposed to wear to an afternoon tea."

She jumped up and wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging him tight.

_______________

The Four Seasons, Amanda' suite...

Amanda sat with her foot propped on a throw pillow and wrapped in ice. She watched Thomas go about giving orders to both the staff and those he had traveled with.

He hadn't stopped in trying to divert her attention during their shared breakfast with talk of films and such. He then had insisted he wrap her ankle with the ice pack, setting timers to make certain to remove it once ten minutes was up. She didn't know what to think of his actions.

"Yes” Thomas said with a hint of impatience as he paced while talking on the phone. “Tell Joelle something unexpected came up this morning that demanded my attention. I'm well aware I'm not in my room right now." He looked down at Amanda. "Yes, it is something important." He said goodbye and then picked up her room phone.

"Send up more ice." He covered the receiver. "Do you want anything?"

"Some iced tea would be nice." She said.

"Iced tea for two. Better bring an extra carafe." He hung up and sat back down beside her.

"This is all very kind," Amanda began, "but I don't want you to feel that you should cancel any plans you've made. I will be fine."

He leaned forward and checked her ankle. Bruising was already forming and it was now nearly the size of a naval orange. "You can't get around easily and you should not be attempting to right now." He removed the ice pack when his alarm went off. 

Amanda sighed softly. "I better call Maxwell and tell him he has to go to the tea alone." She searched for her phone and frowned slightly. "Where did I..."

Thomas held his phone toward her. "Call it and we will find it."

She dialed her number and eyes widened at the sound of Maxwell answering. "How did you get my phone?"

"You left it at the table." He replied. "I thought I could give it to you when I come by on the way to the tea. You're not going to believe who I saw once you left! Jessica Clark! I got her autograph and took a selfie with your phone."

"Max!" She interrupted him describing his meeting Matt Rodriguez. "I'm not going to be able to go to the tea."

"No! Drake and Olivia both said they weren't either and I can't get a hold of Liam." Maxwell pleaded with her. "Isn't there some way you can hobble in there. I'll make certain you get a comfy chair."

"Tell him, no." Thomas said once he saw her wavering.

"Who's that?" Maxwell asked when he heard the voice. "Is Thomas Hunt still with you?!"

"Yes." Amanda responded. "He has been sweet in helping me care for my ankle, which is still incredibly swollen. I can't put a shoe on easily much less walk around in heels right now." She looked up at the ceiling as she admitted the next part. "And it looks like I won't be dancing at the ball."

Maxwell groaned. "I'm sorry. I didn't realize it was that bad. Need me to skip the tea too and bring you something? A doctor to add to your handsome man collection you got going on in there?"

She laughed. "No thank you. Please make my excuses to her grace."

"Alright. I'll still come by and drop your phone off. Maybe a miracle will have occurred with your favorite director caring personally for you."

Color flared on her cheeks when she noticed that Thomas heard that. "Thanks Maxwell. I will see you soon." She handed Thomas back his phone. "Thank you."

He nodded on his way to answer the door. He had the tray set on the table and then tipped the porter. He poured them both a glass of tea before settling back on the couch. "Now that all that has been taken care of," he said. "Would you like me to try and find us something to watch or shall we pick up where we left off in our discussion?"

She looked up at him. "Thomas, you shouldn't feel obligated to entertain me. You've already done so much."

He turned more toward her. "Perhaps I should explain something about myself."

She lifted an eyebrow for him to continue.

"I do not do these," he motioned toward her ankle, "type of tender mercies."

Confusion marked her features. "But you--"

Thomas stopped her by taking her hand. "With you though, I can't think of anything else I would rather do right now than to try and take care of you."

_______________

At the top of the Statue of Liberty...

"It's..." Liam looked out toward the city in awe. "Breathtaking."

Riley smiled at his reaction. "It really is."

"Do you come here often?" He asked, still lost at looking at the snow covered city."

"Not really. This is more of a tourist thing." She explained.

"I think I would have a hard time staying away." He admitted.

"Liam?"

They both turned around.

"Rashad?" Liam shook his hand and tried to stop Hana from dropping into a formal curtsy.

"Your majesty, it is an honor to meet you." She said.

"Majesty?" Riley looked at Liam. "Why did she call you that?"

"Riley, I can explain." He quickly said. "I am the King of Cordonia and--"

"King of Cordonia?" Her eyes narrowed. "Being a king must mean you have a number of subjects, staff, people at your beck and call?"

"Yes but--"

"But you decided to lie to a poor waitress and tell her how lonely you were." She snapped. Tears of humiliation filled her eyes. "I can't believe I decided you would be worth me working exhausted tonight." She jerked her hand from his grasp. "Goodbye, your majesty!"

"Riley!" He chased her back down the stairs. "Stop! If you will give me a chance to explain."

She brushed at the tears as she hurried down the spiral staircase. "Don't speak to me!" She yelled back at him. "I don't ever want to speak to you again!"

He continued his pursuit, pleading with her to listen.

"My father died and my brother abdicated." He said once they were past a group of people heading up. "I never expected to be king."

She tried to ignore him as she hurried down.

"Yes I have friends that I am close to and yes there are a number of associates and such that come to the palace. Yet, knowing my chances to find someone I could care for seemed impossible." He picked up his pace, huffing and puffing at the speed she was going. "That feeling was what made me realize how lonely it is to be given such responsibility over an entire country. One misstep and I could harm the livelihood of my people."

Riley began to slow somewhat as more tears fell. She didn't want to be moved by his explanation.

"If I do find someone I love, how can I ask her to live a life of endless pressure? A life where I could possibly lose her as my father lost my mother. How could I live with myself after that?" He stopped and ssat down on a step. He covered his face with his hands and slowly let them drop. "You're right. I should have told you from the beginning who I was officially. Know this." He peeked down at her.

Riley stopped and looked up at him, tears still forming.

"I let you know the real me last night. The man who wears the crown." He stood up and started walking down toward her. "And that man could not resist the chance of spending another moment with you."

Riley took a deep breath and slowly released it. "Anything else you decided to leave out?"

He paused in shaking his head. "Well, perhaps one."

She folded her arms. "And that is?"

"Would you like to go with me to a masquerade ball tomorrow night?"

________________

Afternoon tea at The Garden, The Four Seasons...

"Well, she seems..." Damien tried to find the word.

"Nice." Nadia decided.

"I was going for something more to describe her artistic temperament, but yeah, she seems okay." He muttered.

"Should we mingle?" She asked gripping his arm.

"This is all your call." He whispered. "I haven't one clue how to act right now."

"I--" her words died when she saw the man with the extraordinary blue eyes walk in. He was greeted affectionately by the duchess hosting them and by a few other nobles.

"He's here!" Nadia gasped.

"Who?" Damien looked around the room. "Ryan Summers? Yeah, I saw him when we first walked in.."

Nadia whipped around. "How did I miss seeing him?"

"I don't know. Should we sit? I think we should. That duchess woman seems to be encouraging everyone to take a seat." Damien pushed Nadia toward a nearby table. He looked down at the fragile china and lace table cloth. "Why did I agree to this?"

Nadia stared at the man she had trouble not day dreaming about. He was walking their way while smiling and greeting those he passed. He looked up and made eye contact with her. His delighted dimpled smile appeared. He hurried over and eyed Damien in question.

"Don't worry. I'm just the friend." Damien told him, a slight smile forming. "Nadia here, is single and thinks your eyes are not blue but a mixture of blues. She also loves your dimples." He reached for the teapot and filled his cup. He sat back in his cushioned chair with a satisfied smirk.

Nadia wanted to die on the spot. "Why?" She asked the man she once thought was her best friend.

He leaned close to whisper. "Time waits for no one. Don't be afraid to let him know you're attracted to him. What have you got to lose?" He nudged her with his elbow. "Go for it.”

She squeezed his hand and turned to Maxwell. "Hi."

His dimples deepened with his smile. "Hi." He motioned to the empty chair beside her. "Mind if I sit here?"

"Not at all." She answered. Nadia cleared her throat. "Um, are you a noble?"

"Yes, sorry." Maxwell shook himself out of thinking how cute she was. "Lord Maxwell Beaumont, younger brother to Bertrand, the Duke of Ramsford." He leaned a little closer toward her. "Are you an artist or an actress?"

"Artist. I'm Nadia Park. This is my best friend, Damien Nazario."

"Don't mind me." Damien replied while looking down at his phone. "I'm here for protection."

Maxwell leaned away from her. "I see."

"He's teasing." She quickly said, kicking Damien under the table. "Tell him."

"I'm teasing." He grunted when she kicked him again. "I'm the one in need of protection from short people."

_______________

AMC Orpheum 7 Movie Theater...

"Do you feel guilty?" Drake asked once they picked a spot to sit.

"For what?" Olivia reached for her box of candy and reclined back in her chair.

"For missing the tea." He settled comfortably back in his own chair. He turned away from the movie screen showing ads and waited on her to respond.

"Not at all. Why I was invited is a mystery." She opened her box and offered him some. "The only art I appreciate are the ones that show historical battles."

Drake chuckled while settling the popcorn between them. "That's why I picked Tommy Phelps's latest movie."

"You know, Amanda says that his movies lack a storyline with any depth or emotion. She thinks his films are nothing but an excuse for a man to continue to play with fireworks." Olivia turned to see how he would react to that being said about a director of who's movies he rarely missed.

Drake rolled his eyes. "Who needs depth when you got a character taking out the enemies trying to destroy his or her life?"

"I'll drink to that." She lifted her soda and took a sip. "So what are you most looking forward to in this one?"

He slipped his hand in hers. "Other than your company, the fight choreography is supposed to have been created by a former Navy Seal. I want your input on it."

Olivia's smile brightened. "Excellent. There is nothing I like better than to critique someone's fighting style."

"Better than some tea?" He asked, pressing a kiss to her neck as the lights went out.

"Much better." She replied turning to kiss him.

__________________

Early evening, Amanda's suite...

"Hello?" Thomas said in a low voice.

"Alright, where are you?" Holly demanded. "You have been MIA all day and now you aren't even back for dinner! What is going on?"

He gently smoothed the hair out of Amanda's face as she moved in her sleep against hin. "I can't go into it right now. Go on and enjoy your evening out. I will most likely order room service."

"How?! How are you going to do that when you aren't even in your room?" She snapped. Ryan tried to get her to calm down. She glared at him but took a deep breath. "Sorry. I don’t mean to snap. That tea was not only dull but only provided sandwiches that were small enough to be barely visible to the naked eye.”

Thomas curved his arm around Amanda as her head dropped off his shoulder. "Go to dinner without me. I will call later." He ended the call and turned his body more to make the lady who fell asleep on him more comfortable.

Her phone ringing a few minutes later had them both jump. She blinked sleepily at it and him. "I'm sorry." She mumbled. "I didn't mean to doze off."

"Your response was appropriate. It was a boring movie we were watching." He told her, his lips curving at her sleep induced bemusement.

She checked the missed call and brushed her hair out of her face. "I really don't feel like explaining my ankle again." She mumbled.

Thomas stood up to stretch. "Then don't."

"I have to explain why I'm not going out to dinner. My friends rarely accept a simple, go without me." She explained.

He chuckled while calling for more ice. "Send one of those text messages. I hate the things but desperate times and all that."

Her lips trembled with suppressed laughter. "I don't think I have ever heard of someone who hates text messages."

"You can't properly read inflection in a text, no matter how many of those weird pictures one uses." He explained.

A laugh escaped her lips. "Weird pictures?"

He grabbed his phone and pulled up a message from Addison as an example. "Those." He pointed at the small yellow faces in different moods.

"Emojis." She said for him.

"Yes." His eyes narrowed while a frown formed as he tried to decipher Addison’s latest message. "Their very name evokes a desire within me to throw this piece of technology out the window."

Her laughter brought a slight smile to his face. She shook her head and composed a brief group text telling them she would not be going to dinner and for them to question Maxwell. "There, and just in honor of you, I did not use one single," her eyes shined with mirth, "weird picture."

"I and I am sure countless others appreciate that." He picked up a room service menu and brought it over to read with her.

She pushed her unruly hair out of her face and turned some toward him, "Thomas, you have been stuck in here with me all day. Part of which, I am ashamed to say, I fell asleep on you. Do go out and enjoy yourself with your friends this evening."

"I have not been stuck here." He corrected, while reading over the entrees. "My room is down the hall and I could have easily left to return to it if I wished." His dark eyes cut to her face. "I chose to remain here and am offering to buy you dinner." He leaned closer with the menu. "Now what would you like?"

She remained in quiet study of his profile for a moment, then reached over to squeeze his hand in gratitude. She knew he would dismiss her words once more if she tried to thank him. A surprised smile formed on her face when he held on to it. She rested her head back on his shoulder and pointed out a few options from the menu that they could share.

________________

Liam's penthouse, The Four Seasons...

"Where have you been?" Maxwell demanded of the three when he walked in. "I have been on noble duty all day! It ended up being a valuable lesson: Liam, I will never try and take the throne from you." He collapsed face first on the sofa. "I'm exhausted."

"What happened to Amanda?" Olivia asked.

"She tripped at breakfast and fell down some stairs, sprained her ankle, and somehow managed to have Thomas Hunt as her personal in room nurse." He explained. "Now where were you?"

"I didn't feel like talking about art." Olivia replied. "So I spent the day around the city doing what I wanted to do."

Maxwell turned suspicious eyes to Drake. "And you?"

Drake rolled his eyes. "Since when do I voluntarily go to afternoon teas?"

"Good point. Liam?" Maxwell turned to be able to see him.

"I went to the Statue of Liberty today." He admitted with a hint of sadness. "I lost track of time." He stood up and went toward the window. "How did it go?"

"Fine." Maxwell replied, yawning. "Everyone seemed to either enjoy it or too nervous to admit otherwise."

“Good.” Liam muttered. When he noticed his three friends looking at him with worry, he forced a smile. “Where shall we eat tonight?”

________________

Later that night at the Ty Bar of The Four Seasons...

"Let me see if I understand this." Daniel said while mixing the drinks for a table filled with famous people. "The guy that was in here last night is a king?"

"Yes." Riley said.

"And you spent the day with him as a tour guide of sorts?" He asked.

She nodded while yawning.

"He then, like Prince Charming, asks you to a ball tomorrow night?" Daniel poured a few more.

"Yes." Riley muttered.

"And you said NO?!" Daniel looked at her incredulously.

"That's right." She picked up the tray and walked away.

_______________

At a table in Ty Bar of the Four Seasons...

"It's weird." Holly continued. "I know Thomas avoids a lot of things, but to just be missing all day and night..." She thanked the waitress and took a sip of her drink.

"Maybe not so weird." Ryan nodded toward the man walking into the bar. "If the king is here, then most likely that woman Thomas was staring at is--"

Addison whipped around in her chair.

"You're going to get whiplash if you keep doing that." Seth teased.

"Addison." Matt muttered.

"What? I had to see what he had on. You know I love fashion." She explained.

"And Liam." Jessica added, dodging the balled up cocktail napkin thrown her way.

“He’s all alone.” Addison pointed out. “Should we invite him to sit with us?”

“We could.” Ryan said at the same time Matt said, no.

Addison jumped up and dragged Matt with her. “Come on. He’s from out of town and all alone. He looks like he could use a friend.”

Once they were near Liam, her nerve froze and she couldn’t think of what to say. 

Matt rolled his eyes and cleared his throat. “Excuse us, but we were wondering if you would like to join our table. We are part of Duchess Joelle’s guests for New Year’s.”

Liam looked up and noticed that Riley was working the section their table was and nodded. “I would love to.”

A muffled squeak escaped Addison’s lips. 

Matt made the introductions once they were all seated. 

Liam smiled at them. “I am a fan of many of your movies.”

“I have made a number of great ones.” Seth joked.

“Two. He’s made two movies.” Holly muttered.

Laughter and conversation flowed among the group with Liam mostly listening.

“Your majesty,” Addison began once her brain had regained control over her mouth.

“Just Liam, please..” He said with a warm encouraging smile.

“Oh!” her hand raised to her heart. ”Liam, are you looking forward to tomorrow night’s ball?”

“We’re all excited.” Jessica added. 

“I--” He paused when Riley came by to check on them.

“Is there anything else I can--” she stared in surprise at Liam. “get you?”

“I could use a refill.” Seth handed his glass to her. “Another margarita please.”

“Sure.” She dragged her eyes away from Liam’s face. “Anyone else?”

The group looked back and forth at her and Liam.

“We’re good.” Ryan replied to cut the tension. 

Once she walked away, Holly turned toward Liam. “You okay? Seems like there was something there between you two.”

“I asked her to the ball.” Liam admitted then shook his head in regret. “It is of no matter. I should be going. It was a pleasure meeting you all and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow night.” He gave a short bow and left.

“What do you think happened?” Jessica asked.

“I don’t know but it wasn’t good.” Addison turned around toward where Riley was last seen. “I’ll be back.” 

She hurried over to the bar and smiled at the bartender. “Hello.”

Daniel smiled at her. “What can I get for you?”

“Um, our waitress, do you know where she went?” She asked.

“She wasn’t feeling well and went home.” He explained.

“Oh.” Addison noticed his slight frown. “Did she leave because of Liam?”

His head shot up. “Did he say something to upset her?”

Over at the table the group watched Addison work her magic of getting information out of people.

“She missed her calling.” Matt said when he noticed both her and the bartender smile. “She should have been an interrogator for the CIA.”

Addison ran back over. “Come on. We have work to do.”

“What happened to our vacation?” Seth whined.

“No rest for the wicked.” Ryan told him.

“We have to find a dress.” Addison explained. “We have just become fairy godmothers.”

[scrapyardboyfriends]

Finally all caught up on the last two weeks of Emmerdale...

Human Graham is surprisingly tolerable. Don’t get me wrong, I still couldn’t really care less about him getting killed off because frankly, it’s been a long time coming. However, this more human version of him that is in casual clothes and hanging with Rhona and actually has motivations of his own, is really what his character should have been all along. Because the stuffy robot in a suit who just grunts and takes orders from Joe and then Kim, especially the Kim version, was just really not a good character. Freeing him from the hold the Tates have had over him has really made him so much better because he doesn’t have to be cryptic anymore. I’m sure there’s still another ten or so convoluted backstories in there just ready to burst out before the end, but still, it feels like he can finally speak freely for the first time in forever. I also kind of enjoy him taunting Al with the whole “don’t be me and get sucked into Kim’s web of insanity, she’ll eat you alive” thing. Cause it’s true. 

Speaking of Al, I miss the confident smarmy businessman he started out as. And I don’t know that I want him to just be the new Graham. I mean, he at least has other connections so maybe that will spare him the same fate, but we’ll see. 

New Ellis...is...strange. I’m sure he’ll just take some getting used to but in that scene where he was sort of scolding Billy, he kind of felt like the older brother and not just because he looks a lot older than Asan. They’re going to kind of have to work out a new dynamic for him and Billy. I don’t know. We’ll see how it goes. #DamnitAsan 

I do think overall though, Home Farm has improved a bit. I mean it’s still not great, but at least we’re not spending ten minutes an episode dealing with Millie going to private school as a B plot. So there’s that. And Human Graham being more of a wild card does make the Millie paternity thing marginally more interesting. I also thought Kim with Andrea after the miscarriage was pretty decent. 

I still think it would be interesting to see Kim show some real emotion though. She’s still very guarded 99% of the time. I’d love to see her actually fall for someone and have real feelings for them. I also miss her friendship with Rhona. She needed that relationship, I think. However, I did love her going round to try and bribe Wendy to leave and warning her that she better not make a wrong move. 

The Jamie/Belle stuff was interesting. I wanted that when he first showed up because they were kind of sweet together. But then they saddled him with a wife and child and he was soooo boring and whiny. So since Millie is clearly going to be Graham’s and who knows...maybe Andrea will kill him, maybe this does free Jamie up for a thing with Belle. I’m not sure her and New Ellis will work out so I’d support this. 

I still could do without Nate but just...thank god the affair is over now. He’s tolerable just trying to round up turkeys and hanging with Pete and Belle. I mean, I still do not need him to be Cain’s son and try and form a relationship with him. Because really Cain and Charity too were the last people that needed more random (adult) children. But here they are...being useless. Ryan’s barely even on the show. At least Nate is sort of doing something being a pawn for Kim. 

Moira since the affair is...well more tolerable than during the affair I suppose. I did like her chat with Vanessa. It’d be nice if they remembered they were friends more often. I just want her to lose the farm soooo badly though. She’s just stuck up there and it’s not good for her character anymore. She needs to lose the farm, really hit rock bottom and then build herself back up away from it. And then we can get a new farming family...one with plenty of members to kill off in future storylines. Haha. I did love Pete’s line “and what happened to all of the family I came here with?!”

That Danny kid is a total creep but I like seeing more of Noah and I like him trying to protect Sarah. 

The Jai/Laurel/Jimmy/Nicola/Arthur/Archie stuff has been interesting. I really do like Jai and Laurel together and I think it’s good that they’re giving them all of this angst. It’s affecting their relationship but it’s also giving them stuff to work through. And the tension between Laurel and Nicola has been good too because at least it’s giving a focus to their friendship, however fractured it is right now. And I love getting more of Nicola and Jimmy and her sticking up for him always. And poor Jimmy. He doesn’t deserve any of this. Dark!Arthur is interesting. I do think they’ve done it in a way that makes sense. And I think both kids are doing great with the story. I really hope once it all comes out though that both kids can get some help and come out of it well in the end. Poor Archie though. And with the King kids joining in too. 

Random, but I loved Nicola telling her kids not to talk to Arthur anymore or Dottie...well Dottie doesn’t really talk but don’t talk to her either. Haha. 

Lydia is still breaking my heart. Agatha is super annoying. I feel like there’s hope there somewhere for a relationship between them someday but for now she really needs to back off. I did enjoy Beth wanting to watch the village drama though. 

Speaking of village drama, the panto stuff is quite fun. It’s nice to have that story running along with the rest. I love Manpreet as the director and Liam trying to take over. I don’t really understand this whole Leyla/Liam thing. I wonder if it’s just a tease for later and a plot point so that Diane can tell Liam that Bernice probably isn’t coming back because eventually that news is going to have to come out. 

And then there’s Wendy....who sucks. Interesting watching all of it in context to the rest of the episodes. Finally got to see that Chas and Wendy conversation. It was....yeah. I mean I don’t think they meant to equate anything Aaron’s done with what a rapist has done but...they did. And they should stop. I still hate Bob being all nice to her and telling Aaron to be nicer to her. Would he tell Vic that too? I mean I guess Chas, her other cheerleader, did so who knows?! I do at least like the rest of the villagers sticking up for Victoria. I liked that Brenda and Laurel conversation about her. And Nicola and Jimmy in the pub with Charity. All of it just makes me really confused as to where they’re going with it though. I mean they have to be working towards her admitting what Lee did but when? And what does that do for the story? Ugh...blech. I just want her to go away. And as much as I thought the Luke and Aaron scenes were well done, and I’m glad he’s standing up for Victoria too, he can still go with Wendy. I just want Vic free of that family once and for all. 

Poor Aaron though. He really does not look well at all. I did notice watching it again, that he has to sit down because he’s about to pass out when Luke mentions “your husband is in prison” though. I’ll take what I can get okay. Haha. Still loving that “this is for Robert” line also. Bless. 

[addictingvictories]

❤ five times my muse says they don’t love yours, and the one time they admit it. + adan

five times victoria villalobos says she doesn’t love adan garza, and the one time she admits it + @ofadan

DISCLAIMER: there’s a timeline but… not. because time is an illusion. not all of them will be explicit because, i’m vague af. 

SHE’S SEVEN YEARS OLD… there’s a curiosity in her like any other child. she holds certain mischief in her eyes, some people say she looks like her father when the child seems to have something bubbling in her head. cautious and shy at first, it’s mostly easy for her to speak to others despite the age. everyone is her friend, aren’t they? she’s known adan for some time now, and victoria can’t help but the happiest when he’s around. at every boring dinner she’s at, she looks around for him.  

“is your little boyfriend not here yet?” a woman that always seems to hang around with her parents asks in the same way grown adults like to annoyingly tease children. “ew, he’s not my boyfriend.” 

SHE’S THIRTEEN YEARS OLD… her child-like phase of dreaming with princes, getting married, and having a family is gone. something in her has shifted. maybe it was the fact she noticed not everything that looked pretty or shiny was indeed that way underneath. there was more to the bubble children usually grew up with. like any other fairytale, where there were villains and monsters… it turned out she was surrounded by them since she gave her first breath into the world. she’d be lying if she denied that before all those realizations when she still believed and had stupid dreams, she saw adan as the one. 

love doesn’t exist.

the bottle has fallen on her. a circle of other kids, just as entitled and arrogant as them. thirsting for gossip and drama. the apple never falls far from the tree in these kinds of environments. “truth.” she really doesn’t feel like doing some ridiculous dare at the moment. “do you love anyone in this circle?”  how close she’s been with adan is not something kept a secret. however, whatever goes on between them keeps them all on the lookout, as if they were the stars of some reality show. her eyes scan the circle around them, and everyone is looking expectantly between them. finally, she looks at him. whatever the answer should be, they both know only one will be said. “no.”

FOUR MONTHS SINCE THE ENGAGEMENT… one thing is obvious. whatever there was between them had changed… for the worst. it is at least to them. they have always been excellent at keeping up appearances, at pretending, at faking it. no one can really know how much a pair of frauds they are. if looked under a microscope, probably every cell in their body is made up of lies. and at this point, it’s almost difficult to tell when the lies are out of necessity and when they are made out to be fun. victoria has fallen and fit in pretty well with the game of pretentiousness, with the fake personas, and made up smiles. it comes second nature by now. except… she hates this. 

making proud a woman that would rather hold her valentino bag instead of her own child, or a man that enjoyed to use his own daughter like yet another pawn in his game was not something she had in her agenda. unfortunately, adan was also part of the game. one she despised. her phone has been ringing non-stop, text after text blowing up her phone. she was supposed to have dinner with a bunch of magnates and their wives, put on a charming smile and hold onto his arm like the young promising couple they were. except, as she looked at the phone and adan’s name came in after every second. 

adan: where are you?adan: victoria, please. adan: pick up. she wouldn’t pick up. 

NINE MONTHS SINCE THE ENGAGEMENT… funny how things quickly escalated, or for a lack of a better term– imploded. the moment the doors of the limo were shut closed, the gig was up and their smiles fell from their faces. drained from anything that was there seconds prior. now replaced by empty lips and pointed stares, because that was the thing about adan and victoria. no matter the disgust they could have for each other at the moment, it was rare for them to get in the middle of a screaming match. silence was what they did best, and then… despite how upset they could be, they couldn’t stay away from each other. 

hands ripping clothes apart, pulling hair in a way it would sting, leaving marks and bruises behind to make the other hurt, and every ounce of anger and frustration put in with each buck of their hips until there was nothing more to feel but the addicting bliss and the ache of their bodies. too stubborn to admit fault or damage. 

FOUR MONTHS SINCE ARRIVING AT SAN FRANCISCO… alejandro and mireya garza are dead. probably a good thing if it weren’t because victoria knows three things will happen from now on. there’s one that becomes more obvious than the others. without the garzas in the picture, adan is considered to be disposable, and the order soon follows. she’s not sure what she has in mind as she toys with the ring on her finger and walks through the halls; but the moment her eyes land on a dead body and a careless adan, the pieces fall to the slots they belong in. 

there isn’t much to talk about when the reason why she’s here has become obvious to both of them. when once again any word that is thrown to each other in the same leveled tone they’d use, is shaped in a way it can cause a weapon. except, adan can’t feel them, can he? so whatever she says or does is pointless, she still finds a way. the ring gets shoved against his chest and she’s almost daring him to do something. “we were nothing more but people that relied on the other for image and sex.”

SHE’S NINETEEN YEARS OLD… four months since arriving at san francisco, and what feels like an eternity since the engagement. until it’s over. she turns her back on him one last time, she leaves him on his own for good, she lets him know she doesn’t love him, she never has, and at this point, is clear she never will. victoria villalobos doesn’t love adan garza. 

i suppose it’s not necessary to tell you to hold your tears, right? 

her hand feels too light now, a bit cold. she tells herself its just a phantom feeling that there’s something uncomfortable from not having something that used to be there for so long. her heels hit the pavement from the sidewalk and the cool air of the night hits her face as a tear rolls down her face. she doesn’t love him. another step as a second tear makes its way out. she doesn’t need him. and as she makes her way to the limo, the silent tears have already created a waterfall down her face. because no matter how much she told herself, how much she claimed to them and proved she didn’t love him. there was something more than clear. 

victoria loved adan. she always had, and she always would. 

[deathcvrse]

intro : mason giordano . 

◟ * ◊ ─  dylan o'brien + cis male + he/him » * believe it or not mason giordano is working for the bianchi family . they are 27 years of age and are known to usually spend their time around body cult : tatto & piercing studio . the hitman , who has been a part of the alliance for 10 years , has been living in victoria his entire life . the people closest to them describe the bisexual scorpio to be + kind and + trustworthy as well as - cold and - selfish◝ 

hello everyone , so excited to bring you guys mason !! i also play enrique . a lil bit about me - i’m lorena , 19 & from spain (cest timezone) and i’m pretty much obsessed with video games . if ya got any questions in regards to my muses , or have ideas for connections don’t hesitate in messaging me !! i do have discord , if you’d like to plot over there - but i’m also fine with tumblr ims . anyways if ya wanna plot and stuff give this a like !!

GENERAL BACKGROUND + A FEW FACTS . TRIGGER WARNING: SUBSTANCE ABUSE , DEATH . - mason is originally from naples , italy , but moved to victoria when he was just a few months old . this is due to his father successfully landing a h-1b visa at a well known IT business . throughout his childhood mason lived with both of his parents , his siblings and his grandmother until he was sixteen . - it was no secret that the marriage between his parents was unstable , constant fighting - would not only lead his mother to become an alcoholic but also to having an affair with benito mancini . soon after , she would become pregnant and give birth to his first half brother , rocco mancini . a divorce would be filed , and his mother rosaline would marry benito shortly after . two years later she’d give birth to another son . - with his mother leaving at the age of 6 to be with another man , mason was left alone with his father . while mason missed his mother , he felt as if she preferred his younger siblings over himself . perhaps it had to do with how similar the younger boy looked to his father ?? - overtime he’d see the loving figure of his father morph into a monster . the heartbreak of losing his wife , mixed with the feeling of guilt , would soon lead to substance abuse . what would start with a one or two lines of coke a week , would turn his father into an addict . - at the age of fifteen , mason would lose his father . a bullet between his brows would be the indication of a murder . it was no secret that giovanni giordano had spent all his fortune in drugs . the death of his father would be what would push mason’s mother over the edge . continuously questioning why she never took mason in with her , and what he had to endure as a kid would be what caused her alcoholism to worsen . she’d soon be in and out of rehab . - shortly after the murder of his father , mason’s nan would win custody over him . he would be given a choice , to live with his nan or his mother , but a part of him refused to live with his stepfather and siblings .  - due to the financial issues mason’s grandmother struggled with he joined the alliance . while he started of as a pawn , not even a year in he’d change positions and become a hitman . - overtime mason would slowly stop contacting his mother . he’d be hit with the feeling of guilt after her death in a drunk driving accident . the same year or her death mason would lose his grandmother to cancer .

GENERAL STATS . - name : mason giordano . - nicknames : mg , giordano , tba . - age : 27 . - sexuality : bisexual . - birthday : october 30th . - position within the alliance : the hitman  - scars : caused by weapons - one across the front of his neck , one on his abdomen . accidents - after breaking his wrist , when he was 13 he needed surgery , thus a scar that goes from his wrist slightly down to his forearm . - piercings : current : 2 rings on his left ear cartilage  . past : eyebrow piercing . - tattoos : a perfect rose encompassed by flames with esmerelda’s signature inked onto his back . a small cross inked onto the side of his right thumb . medusa inked onto his right shoulder with a snake embracing his upper arm , slowly connecting to this piece which is also inked onto his upper arm .  mason has a sailboat that is embraced by snakes , inked onto the inside of his bicep on his right arm . one can see a set of mermaids on that piece . on the right side of his right wrist he has a small moon . said snakes slowly travel down his skin until they reach his forearm , where they meet the inked piece of michelangelo’s david , slowly surrounding the perfect figure . on the back of his right arm he has written ‘dead end’ in bold capital letters right above his elbow . on his left arm , mason wears half a sleeve , where inked trees cover his forearm .GG inked onto the back of his neck sitting in between two wings , representing his grandmother’s initials . a small heart inked in the space between his collarbones and ‘ breathe ’ written out vertically in small capital letters on the side of his neck , each letter is spaced out . he has ‘ la pura verita ’ inked right below that same heart . 

WANTED CONNECTIONS . - anyone he knows from high school . 0/? - anyone from the bianchi family he has close ties with . 0/3 - someone he gets his drugs from , a specific dealer maybe ?? 0/2 - a hitman he sees like a brother / sister . basically someone who understands how shit it is having to do the job . 0/2 - a drinking buddy , maybe they just hang out to drink their sorrows idk 0/2 - a partying buddy - yes , someone he simply goes and gets pissed with for the sake of having fun 0/2 - friends , frenemies , enemies . 0/? - past hook ups . 0/? this is self explanatory . mason does hook up with strangers here and there , but it could’ve also been a mate or someone he doesn’t get along with ?? ya never know . - ex girlfriend , see wc page on the main 0/1 .

[midnight-in-town]

John Brown as the mastermind behind the Blue Sect and the recent sad events?

Disclaimer: Spoilers and long post. As such, this theory will initially be a little chronological to try and make the explanation simpler. If any point is unclear, feel free to ask @thedarkestcrow or me about it as it is something we discussed together. :)

First of all, here’s what we know about the current arc (ch127 happens mid-November 1889):

Bravat (who’s most likely human) knew from the beginning that Ciel is the Watchdog (”Earl Phantomhive”), that Seb is a demon, that Lizzie is Ciel’s fiancée and that the Starlight Four committed crimes at Weston.

Bravat’s sect is at least one and a half year/two years old (ch125). However, seeing as there was no hint of massive blood collects and death before August/September 1889, we’ll assume for this theory that the 4 star lords were put in Bravat’s care at some point during Summer 1889, which is when Bravat started using the S4 to promote the Sphere music hall in order to collect as much blood as possible.

Othello said that, considering the anormal progress of the sect’s technology, a supernatural being is most likely behind it (ch119/ch125). This supernatural mastermind is very probably the reason Bravat knew about Sebastian being a demon (and about Lizzie and Ciel). 

While the reason tying Lizzie to the sect is still unclear, we’re going to assume for this theory that Bravat’s mention of her to Ciel (ch123) might mean that she’s seen as a possible hostage to use against him. 

Lastly, about the 2CT: it seems like it’s almost confirmed.

Lord Sirius being Ciel’s twin (aka Real!Ciel, a “bizarre doll”) is a popular theory

Agni’s reaction when he found the burnt picture of Ciel’s family (ch126) was quite telling that something was unexpected about this picture.

I hope all of this makes sense for you guys! Onto the theory about John Brown...

1) Going back in time...

...To December 1885, Vincent is killed and his sons are bought by a satanic cult that intends on using them as sacrifices in order to summon a demon. In January 1886, Real!Ciel is sacrificed on the altar and our!Ciel manages to summon Sebastian, selling his soul to him in order to survive and get revenge. He then becomes the new Queen’s Watchdog in March 1886.

Fastforwarding a bit, ch125 told us that the old Lords whom Bravat used to transfuse regularly should have died more than one and a half year ago, meaning that Bravat’s sect has been at least existing ever since Winter 1887/Spring 1888.

A possible link to Ryan’s Aurora Society or the mysterious Osiris company mentioned during the Campania arc is possible but we don’t have any hint vouching for it yet.

Fastforwarding again, it’s February 1889 and the Circus arc happens, resulting in a messy ending, with Ciel lying to the Queen about his report for this case, not knowing that the Double Charles and John Brown (as well as the Undertaker) witnessed what he truly did.

As a result, Queen Victoria organizes a grand punishment in March 1889, starring Charles Grey killing an important German lord and trying to have Ciel take the fall for the murder in front of witnesses. This ends rather well though, as Ciel manages to trick Grey and blame someone else for the murder.

In April 1889, it’s the Campania arc, where the Undertaker introduces for the first time his Bizarre Doll project, indirectly mass-murdering many people seemingly without a care in the world. He manages to run away, leaving his chain of lockets to Ciel and with Sebastian concluding the arc on...

They obviously did run into him again though, in June 1889, when they end up facing ameliorated BDs, because of several murders committed by 4 students (the Starlight 4).  At the end of this arc, Ciel makes his report to Queen Victoria, telling her about the S4′s crimes but also about the Undertaker’s Bizarre Dolls. Strangely enough though, she doesn’t find Ciel’s explanation to be senseless and once he left, this discussion about BDs happens between her and John Brown:

So, Queen Victoria seems to find the idea of having BDs as “allies” to be very fancy. And, as the following arc happening in Germany in August 1889 will show, it seems that Queen Victoria finds that idea to be oh! so very interesting because she’s actually preparing for a war against Germany, which is also why she asks Ciel to bring Sieglinde and her latest deadly invention (the SULIN gas) back to England, so that Sieglinde can invent new war weapons that the Queen will then use against Germany.   

At least that was how the clever plan getting Victoria new deadly war weapons was supposed to go. 

Because two slight problems arose:

the Undertaker unfortunately doesn’t happen to be Victoria’s greatest fan (most likely because she’s the reason Vincent, and maybe Claudia Phantomhive, ended up dead thanks to the Watchdog duty), so trying to make friends with UT to get the BDs probably wouldn’t work at all.

Ciel unfortunately saw through Victoria’s plan for Sieglinde and the SULIN and he tasked Sebastian with getting rid of the very deadly gas in ch108, double crossing “his master” by doing so.

Unfortunately though, Ciel’s plan kind of backfired at him, since Queen Victoria and John Brown made it rather obvious in ch108 (late August 1889) that they saw through his little game, which means that it’s the second mistake (or act of defiance) that Ciel made as the Watchdog in less than a year, causing Brown/King Albert to...

...compare him to his very murdered father. 

@thedarkestcrow​ and I (and other readers of course) took this as a rather serious threat against Ciel (something he probably realized as well), perfectly fitting with the theory that the Queen and John Brown might have something to do with the murders of Vincent and Rachel, for a reason that’s still unknown. [x] [x]

In any case, while Victoria saw through Ciel’s little game with the SULIN quite obviously, she doesn’t appear to have punished him (yet?) and anyway, ch114 told us that she was actually visiting Sieglinde often, probably because she hasn’t given up on Sieglinde creating something useful for her war. 

As for her desire to get allies in the form of Bizarre Dolls, if the one who initially had the idea (the Undertaker) can’t be found and convinced to help her, maybe she could ask another supernatural being to make them for her?

One she already knows; one she trusts because he comforts her when she’s sad and missing her husband; one who knows about her war plans and who promised to protect her; one who traveled in record time from England to Germany without riding his horse and without triggering the traps in the forest; one whose eyes are always hidden, hinting that maybe they would give away his true nature should they be seen...

...Or maybe John Brown is making it all a surprise in this arc because he’s very dedicated to her...?

2) John Brown (and Queen Victoria?) as the mastermind behind this arc

Starting from here, this is all hypothetical, but maybe I should say now that @thedarkestcrow​ and I started considering that the supernatural mastermind Othello hinted at had to be someone who was not the Undertaker ever since Ciel became targeted in the recent events. For now, it’s unclear whether Soma really was the target of the attack of ch126/127 or if Ciel was, but, even if the target was Soma, it most likely inherently had to do with Ciel. 

So, considering the Undertaker’s attachment to the P family, we tend to agree with Sebastian when he once said that the Undertaker “doesn’t seem to want to cause [Ciel] harm”. Besides, so far, the Undertaker’s BD project mostly was based on alterations of cinematic records, so the fact that the 4 Lords (if they’re indeed supposed to be BDs) seemed to be dependent of blood always made us wonder why he’d change his methods now (especially after BD!Algares who was almost perfect). 

However, John Brown if he’s the mastermind trying to “make things go according to her majesty’s wishes” (no matter what kind of supernatural being he is), wouldn’t know how UT managed to create his BDs, so maybe that’s why the 4 Lords seem to be different, needing blood when UT’s dolls didn’t. 

John Brown could also be behind Bravat’s technology ever since the old Lords started to be transfused at least two years ago, simply because Victoria is preparing for war and as Wolfram put it in ch114...

So after researching about blood transfusion, Brown used these important old Lords to experiment his blood transfusion technique by the intermediary of Bravat’s sect, thanks to the technology he developed as a supernatural being (that device that Othello was impressed with in ch125). 

Brown as Victoria’s footman and as the supernatural mastermind behind Bravat would also be aware of:

Ciel being the watchdog

Seb being a demon

Lizzie being Ciel’s fiancée

the S4 having committed crimes and making for useful pawns.

Finally, if we’re saying that the blue sect is a cover for Brown researching how to make bizarre doll-like beings that will be used as war weapons, I know it does sound strange (if she is aware of what he is doing) that Queen Victoria deliberately put Ciel on Bravat’s trail. 

So, this part is really a wild idea but what if it all was a part of her plan, because no one can know what she and John Brown tried to create using the Sphere music hall as a cover? After all, imagine the scandal if people were to learn that the Queen is indirectly responsible for bleeding to death a part of London, because she’s involved with senseless experiments! 

Which is why she asked Ciel to go investigate the Sphere music hall...

...even giving him the list of these old Lords that were being transfused by Bravat over the last two years...

...maybe hoping that Bravat purposedly endangering Lizzie by making her join the sect at the same time would be a good way for him to focus on settling this case with as much efficiency as possible?

Settling the case might not be what she’s expecting of him at all... Rather she wants him to get rid of Bravat and his sect, Lizzie used “as a hostage” being what should motivate Ciel to do anything to eliminate the ones who endangered her (and obviously Bravat wouldn’t know that he’s expandable). And it’s not such a crazy bet when we see how Ciel solved most of the other cases given to him.

Of course, if John Brown has his own agenda (or if the Queen doesn’t know that he might be supernatural), it’s possible that the Queen might not have known that Brown was trying to create the “bizarre dolls” that they talked about back in ch84, hence why she put Ciel on the case. That being said, considering how she didn’t seem surprised that things as strange as Bizarre Dolls could exist back in ch84, if Brown is supernatural then she might be aware of it.

3) About the events of ch126/127

A really hypothetical part yet again, just to point out that...

...Whoever Agni’s killer is, he’s stronger than a normal human because Agni himself was a very good fighter and he almost couldn’t fight back. So, while we’re not 100% sure of who this man is yet (Lord Polaris? maybe John Brown himself?) and same for the gunman, it would make sense to think that they’re linked to the Sphere music hall.

If the two men who attacked Soma and Agni are Lord Polaris and Lord Sirius then, if they’re really supposed to be equivalents of UT’s BDs, maybe the fact they need a lot blood could also have to do with a possible enhancement of their physical capacities. That would explain the strength of Agni’s killer.

Take Finny for example. Do you remember where Finny is from? A German research institute that the Queen had Ciel raid, for the same reason she sent him to Sieglinde’s village. So if Germany had found a way to enhance physical capacities, it’s not impossible for England to have found it as well, especially since it would be very useful for war. 

In any case, the fact that Ciel’s house was targeted might have been for a simple reason: maybe it was a way to experiment if the “dolls” (Lord Polaris and Lord Sirius in that case) were following orders correctly as well as how they would manage against a strong fighter like Agni (or maybe even Sebastian). As for why choosing Ciel’s house as the target of the experimental attack... well, maybe this (hurting Soma and killing Agni) is Ciel’s punishment for taking the SULIN away from the Queen... Unless it’s an initiative by Bravat of course, because he’s tired of Ciel trying to stop him. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Thanks for reading and sorry that it was so long!

As always, this post could be totally off (the theory about Ciel’s twin wanting revenge still holds, even if I just can’t see UT as the mastermind behind the sect anymore after the events of ch126/127) especially since this theory doesn’t completely explain everything, so please take everything with a grain of salt and feel free to share your thoughts about this theory if you feel like it. 

We’ll see if this will go anywhere next month. :)

[jenmedsbookreviews]

Yes folks. Like a large proportion of the country I got snowed in on Sunday. Yippee. At least for Sunday as I could stay snuggled under a blanket reading. Less yippee if this is what I am faced with trying to get to work on Monday … by the time you read this I’ll either have made it or not. We shall see.

Better week this week. Dragged myself down to London on Monday and attended the final First Monday Crime panel of the year which was a fun and moderately festive affair. So great hear from the panel of Louise Jensen, Mel McGrath, Susi Holliday and Chris Whitaker alongside chair Claire McGowan. This was followed by some top (?) crime writers pitching their slightly unusual story ideas to the audience. It was … an experience. I’m hoping none make it into print …

It was great to be able to get to the pub afterward and catch up with a few bookish folk including Jacob, Victoria, Joy, Amer, Tracy, Gabriela, Alex, Keshini, Roz, Vaseem, Linda, Katherine, Graham, Susi and Mel, as well as Mr Whitaker who was handing out hugs left right and centre. I’m sure I’ve probably missed scores of folk for which I apologise but it was a very busy night and I had to leave in a rush to catch my train or I’d be stranded in London all night. It was a bit like Cinderella only older, fatter, no fairy support and I managed to keep hold of both of my shoes …

I did pick up a couple of books on the day. One was a purchase from Waterstones, a signed copy of Robert Bryndza’s The Girl In The Ice. Seemed rude not to as I was in London. I also couldn’t resist grabbing a copy of All The Wicked Girls while I was at the panel and forcing Mr W to sign it. Cause, ya know, he’s so backward in coming forward … 😉

Book post wise this was an epic week. First up my two outstanding purchases from Goldsboro turn up. Yay. They were the CWA Anthology (Signed) and my signed copy of Whiteout by Ragnar Jonasson. I’m even quoteed in Whiteout so this is a super smiley book for me. On top of these I received arcs of Games with the Dead by James Nally; The Chalk Man by CJ Tudor;  Fault Lines by Doug Johnstone; Blue Night by Simone Buccholz; and Kiss Me, Kill Me by James Carol.

E-book wise I was sent a new novella from Julia Roberts, Christmas at Carol’s which I’ll be reviewing this week.

I also got a couple of books on Netgalley – Let Me Lie by Clare Mackintosh and We Own The Sky by Luke Allnut.

Not a bad bookhaul of a week I guess. Reading wise I finished two books and two novellas so I’ll take that.

Books I have Read

My Sweet Friend by H.A. Leuschel

A stand-alone novella from the author of Manipulated Lives

A perfect friend … or a perfect impostor?

Alexa is an energetic and charismatic professional and the new member of a Parisian PR company where she quickly befriends her colleagues Rosie and Jack. She brings a much-needed breath of fresh air into the office and ambitiously throws herself into her new job and friendships. 

But is Alexa all she claims to be? 

As her life intertwines with Rosie and Jack’s, they must all decide what separates truth from fiction. Will the stories that unfold unite or divide them? Can first impressions ever be trusted?

In this original novella, H.A. Leuschel evokes the powerful hold of appearances and what a person is prepared to do to keep up the facade. If you like thought-provoking and compelling reads with intriguing characters, My Sweet Friend is for you.

A really interesting and quick read, this book looks at the power of friendship and what happens when one of a pair uses manipulation to get what they want from life. I don’t want to give away too much more about the book as it’s only around 100 pages, but you can read my full review here and buy the book here 

…

A Game Of Ghosts by John Connolly

It is deep winter. The darkness is unending.

The private detective named Jaycob Eklund has vanished, and Charlie Parker is dispatched to track him down. Parker’s employer, Edgar Ross, an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, has his own reasons for wanting Eklund found.

Eklund is no ordinary investigator. He is obsessively tracking a series of homicides and disappearances, each linked to reports of hauntings. Now Parker will be drawn into Eklund’s world, a realm in which the monstrous Mother rules a crumbling criminal empire, in which men strike bargains with angels, and in which the innocent and guilty alike are pawns in a game of ghosts . . .

Finally!!! I am a very bad blogger. Should have read this months and months and moths ago but I never quite made it. Would never have forgiven myself if it had come to year end and it was still outstanding. Charlie Parker back at it;s thrilling and supernatural best this has a wonderful blend of the brilliant storyline and also emotional moments which make me very very happy. My review will be posted this week but you can buy a copy of the book here.

…

Christmas at Carol’s by Julia Roberts

An uplifting tale of people’s desire to help each other in the season of goodwill – a romantic comedy with a twist in the tale.

Carol fell in love with Wisteria Cottage the moment she laid eyes on it and moved in two weeks before Christmas hoping it would be start of a new more positive period in her life. 

On her first night in her new home she discovers an old Christmas card to someone called Annie with a heart-breaking message inside from Jake. 

Although she doesn’t know them, and despite being on a self-imposed dating break herself, Carol begins planning how she can bring them together, while her new neighbour, Sally, is attempting a bit of matchmaking of her own. 

What a wonderfully uplifting novella. Very festive and very romantic I’ll be sharing my thoughts with everyone later this week. This is the perfect story of family, friendships, love lost and love found, just set to get you in the mood for Christmas. You can pre-order a copy of the book here.

…

Foul Trade by B.K.Duncan

It is March 1920. May Keaps, the Poplar Coroner’s Officer, has never failed to provide a jury with sufficient evidence to arrive at a just verdict.

The poverty, drunken fights between visiting sailors, drug trafficking, and criminal gangs, haunting the shadows of the busiest docks in the world, mean that the Coroner sees more than its fair share of sudden and unnatural deaths.

May relishes the responsibility placed upon her but there are many who believe it’s an unsuitable job for a woman. Even May begins to wonder if that is the case when the discovery of a young man’s body, in a Limehouse alley, plunges her into an underworld of opium dens, gambling, turf wars, protection rackets and murder.

As her investigations draw her into danger, it becomes increasingly clear that whoever is responsible intends to avoid the hangman’s noose by arranging to have May laid out on one of her own mortuary slabs. 

I read the prequel novella for this series a few weeks ago and I knew then that May Keaps was going to be quite an intrepid kind of gal. I wasn’t wrong. An intriguing mystery led by May who works as a Coroner’s Officer, she is quite relentless in her pursuit of the truth and a key example of an early version of girl power. My review will be up tomorrow and you can order your own copy of the book right here.

…

That was it reading wise, and to be fair I’ve not been much busier on the blog with a handful of reviews and a lot of #bookvent.

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 4

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 5

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 6

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 7

#BlogTour: Anything for Her by G.J. Minett

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 8

Review: My Sweet Friend by H.A. Leuschel

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 9

The #Bookvent Calendar 2017: Day 10

Review: Dark Skies by LJ Ross @LJRoss_author

The week ahead is equally laid back I’ve blog tour reviews today for Carol Wyer’s The Silent Children, and tomorrow for Angelina Kerner’s Follow The Snowflakes and BK Duncan’s Foul Trade, plus Rachel Sargeant’s The Perfect Neighbours this weekend. Alongside that will be the next seven days in my #bookvent countdown.

Hope you all have a warm and book filled week. I’m off to Dublin again on Wednesday for the final time this year so plenty of reading time for me. See you next time.

Jen

          Rewind, Recap: Weekly Update w/e 10/12/17 Yes folks. Like a large proportion of the country I got snowed in on Sunday. Yippee. At least for Sunday as I could stay snuggled under a blanket reading.