#violins and Violets series

[prettylittlelyres]

Violins and Violets - Series - WIP page

1784: Katharina Schmidt and her brother Hans grew up composing and performing music for royalty all over Europe. Now they are adults, only Hans is allowed to pursue his music, while Katharina's father tells her it's time to find a husband and settle down. Katharina's attempts to do as she's told only convince her that it's not what she wants to do, and she must decide how far she's willing to go to keep making music.

Hello, friends! It's been a minute since I updated the links on my blog, and I have just seen that I still have the "Beta Readers Wanted" post linked to the "Violins and Violets (WIP)" button... from the draft I finished and started querying in 2019 / 2020!

Things have... changed somewhat since then...

"Violins and Violets" is now a series, of (I expect) five books. None of them have titles yet, so I'm just referring to them as "Violins and Violets 1," etc. I thought it was time to make a new WIP page.

Book 1 tag - WIP page - first draft completed in December 2023, second draft in May 2024. (Earlier titled "Ladies Don't Write Music" - but this may be a better name for Book 2.)

Book 2 tag - WIP page - first draft completed in January 2024, now writing second draft in June and July 2024.

Book 3 tag - early planning stages, hoping to create outline in October 2024, with a view to writing the first draft in November and December 2024. Hoping to redraft in 2025.

Book 4 tag - hoping to plan and draft in 2025.

Book 5 tag - hoping to plan and draft in 2025 or 2026.

Series tag - all posts made about "Violins and Violets" since I realised it needed to be a series, no matter what book I'm talking about.

Everything "Violins and Violets" - the whole story, right from the beginning, when I started writing the first draft of a single book for Camp NaNoWriMo in April 2018.

One-Shots - short stories that I've written for the "Violins and Violets" world.

"Vogeltje" - another novel that takes place in the same world, and features some of the same characters.

I'm trying to bring each book in somewhere around 75,000 words, taking three months to write a first draft, and two months for each subsequent draft. I find it easier to focus on the story proper when I write quickly and regularly, so when I have a draft on the go, I try to write every day. Between drafts, I am trying to take whole months off writing, so that I can rest my creative muscles, as it were.

You can follow my progress here on my writeblr, and on the NaNoWriMo website.

Characters:

Katharina Schmidt - musical prodigy and composer who performed for royalty as a child, but is no longer allowed, because she's a woman. Disguises herself as "Sebastien", and flees Salzburg to start a composing career in Prague

Hans Schmidt - brother of Katharina, who is also a musical prodigy and composer, but is allowed to pursue his music as an adult.

Franz Schmidt - solicitor; father of Katharina and Hans, who wants to see his daughter married well enough to put silly ideas of music out of her head.

Julia Schmidt - lady of leisure; mother of Katharina and Hans; wife of Franz, who loves to make tapestries and knitted garments; wants the best for her children and is willing to let Franz decide what this is.

Barbara Kirkmann - housemaid to the Schmidts, Katharina's closest friend and confidante.

Elisabeth Meyer - daughter of Franz' boss, Katharina's first "acceptable" friend, and the oldest sister of many siblings; keen to get married and start a life of her own.

Miléna von Tritten - Elisabeth's best friend, and daughter of one of the Meyer firm's wealthiest clients, Baron von Tritten; expected to marry a noble, but totally absorbed in Johann Schneider.

Johann Schneider - training to be a magistrate, under pressure to get married, but totally uninterested in... anyone? All the ladies want him; none of them can catch him. Absolutely tone-deaf, but loves to watch musicians play; friends with Katharina.

Louisa Schneider - Johann's younger sister, also tone-deaf, but keen to become a musician under Katharina's tutelage.

Magdalena Fialová - an opera singer who wants to get more young women into music; one of "Sebastien's" first and best friends in Prague.

Miklós Kovács - a fellow violinist who persuades the management of the Malá Strana Opera House to give "Sebastien" an audition. Best friend of Magdalena, and very close with "Sebastien".

Background:

Yes, Katharina Schmidt is based on Maria Anna "Nannerl" Mozart, who deserved a much better life than she got. I have always wondered what would have happened if she had defied her father when he told her to stop composing. Would she have known as much fame as her brother?

Yes, Katharina Schmidt is a lesbian. That's because she's only based on a real person; she isn't actually Nannerl Mozart. I have no idea what Nannerl Mozart would have called herself, or how she felt, and I think it would be rude for me to try to guess. This part of Katharina's character is inspired less by history than by my own experiences and desire to see more representation of Queer people in historical fiction. (She's not the only person in the series who isn't straight! Who are the others? You'll have to read the books to find out... or just follow here; I'm yappy about it.)

[prettylittlelyres]

Hans Schmidt is entirely human but is absolutely capable of purring, and does so often.

I have a disorder that makes me want to headcanon every nonhuman character with the ability to purr regardless if it makes sense for their kind or not. It's called being right. With enough research i could justify a tree purring if i wanted to

[pascaloverx]

DANDELIONS

Summary: You are the new guest of the Bridgertons. Your mother, an old friend of Lady Violet Bridgerton, has requested that you spend a season at the Bridgerton house in hopes that you will change your perspective on true love and marriage. You are convinced that love is a fictional construct and that a marriage without love will be your downfall; but some time with the Bridgerton siblings might change your mind.

Author's Note: The characters belong to the Bridgerton universe and Julia Quinn. However, the story will have some changes from what happens in the Bridgerton series (2020-). Dear readers, this story may contain strong language and steamy romance scenes. It may even feature a love triangle. Be warned and enjoy the reading.

AO3 LINK TWO

ONE

"A great idea," you grumbled the entire way from your house to the Bridgerton house. Your mother had told you it would be an excellent idea for you to venture into society. "An independent mission," she said. Your father is so ill and trapped in his own world that he didn't mind letting his only daughter go to a stranger's house. Your mother has given up on arranging a conventional marriage for you. She doesn't respect the fact that you don't want a marriage like hers. You wonder if it's so wrong to want a marriage filled with tenderness, passion, love, or any feeling other than indifference. You basically grew up knowing you were the product of an obligation. The only child your parents managed to conceive before your father became too ill to have more children. Or rather, before your mother gave up trying to love him. When you were born, at least she had shed the moral burden of having to provide your father with an heir. Obviously, both she and he had hoped you would be a boy. But you think that over the years they have grown accustomed to you. This year, for some reason, your mother wants you to get married. Perhaps it's because your father is on the brink of death. If you find a husband who can manage your father's properties and investments, maybe you will become something useful to your family. Your father only mutters about wanting a male grandchild to carry on his legacy, and your mother wants you married. After Lady Violet Bridgerton successfully married off her daughter Daphne, your mother began to think that perhaps she could help you. So, after exchanging a few letters, you are now on your way to the Bridgerton house to be introduced to society's marriage system.

"I need to step out of this carriage for a moment," you say as you stop murmuring your mother's words. Your companion gives you a look that says, "She's lost her mind," but you know she will eventually let you get out of the carriage.

"Actually, we are already in front of the Bridgerton house entrance. I must remind you that your mother recommended I stay by your side most of the time," Mrs. Lydia says, as if you didn't know that, as your companion, she is supposed to always be nearby.

"I know your job is to protect my honor, but believe me, if I enter the Bridgerton house in my current mood, they will expel me before midnight. I need a moment to think," you say, nervously adjusting the hem of your dress. Your companion gently nods as if she understands. Lydia is the closest thing to true family that you have. So it's no surprise that she understands you.

"Enter the house for a moment and be polite. There's a stable on the Bridgerton property; I'll see what I can do. Ask Lady Bridgerton or the Viscount Bridgerton if you can go for a ride. And try not to get into trouble. I'll pretend to accompany you but give you some time alone," Lydia says, and you hug her tightly. A good horse ride after meeting the Bridgertons is just what you need. Not that you know much about them. You can only imagine. They are several siblings, and you are an only child. It's not hard to imagine there will be some incompatibilities. Minutes later, you step out of the carriage with Lydia, observing several people standing around you two.

"Dear Miss Y/L/N, it's a pleasure to welcome you here. I must confess that when your mother informed me of your arrival, we all looked forward to it," Lady Violet Bridgerton says as she approaches you. She seems so friendly that you feel inclined to hug her.

"I would like to thank you, Lady Bridgerton, and your lovely family for your hospitality. Unfortunately, my mother couldn't come with me, but my companion Lydia is here," you say awkwardly. The truth is, you're feeling that this season at Aubrey Hall with all the Bridgertons might be more challenging than you imagine.

"Let's not waste time exchanging pleasantries and let's go inside so you can see your quarters. I believe it will be the perfect time for you to get to know my children better," she says as she guides you into the house. The place is spectacular. As soon as you enter, you see some people approaching.

"Miss Y/L/N, I must warn you that this family can be a bit lively, but we will try our best to welcome you with courtesy," says a girl who must be a little younger than you. She has a book in her hands and is the first to approach you as you enter.

"Eloise, don't scare off our guest. Welcome to our abode, Miss Y/L/N. My name is Colin Bridgerton, and if you need someone to talk to, I'll be available. But I know that after a journey, the best thing is a good night's rest," Colin says to you, who smiles, finding it amusing how many Bridgertons are showing up.

"I believe I should thank Miss Eloise for the warning and Mr. Bridgerton for his kindness. Although I believe I still have a long way to go until my restful moment," you say, looking at the two who seem pleased with your gratitude.

"Your dress is beautiful, Miss Y/L/N. By the way, unlike my older brothers, I know how to introduce myself. My name is Hyacinth Bridgerton." A girl who seemed not to be at the entrance of the house just moments ago suddenly appears, saying this as she walks quickly toward you.

"You're mistaking knowing how to introduce yourself with flattery, Hyacinth. I'm Gregory Bridgerton, but you can call me Gregory," says a young boy who appears to be almost the same age as Hyacinth, while the girl taps him on the shoulder. You find it cute and funny how they behave. Having siblings seems to be at least entertaining.

"The younger ones are so noisy. I wish you a pleasant stay with us, Miss Y/L/N. You'll need it. If you need some peace, just look for me. My name is Francesca," a young woman says kindly as she moves away from the confusion that this introduction session is becoming.

"Now that Miss Y/L/N has met most of the Bridgertons who reside in this house, how about having some tea in the garden of the property?" Lady Violet speaks gently, touching your arm. You nod in agreement.

"I would just like to go to the quarters where I will be staying for a change of clothing. I hope you understand, Lady Violet." You were already starting to feel pain in your back from the corset that was too tight on you.

"My dear, you can call me Violet, and you may go. I'll ask them to take you to the room where you'll be staying, and your companion will join you shortly to assist. Once you're done, I'll be in the garden waiting for you." Lady Bridgerton speaks, and you follow the servant she assigns to show you where you'll be staying. Knowing that Lydia will be with you shortly, as soon as you enter the room, you lock the door.

"What are you doing here, Miss?" A male voice speaks as soon as you lock the door, and you startle as you turn around to find a man, his shirt slightly unbuttoned, staring at you.

"I'm almost certain that I should be the one saying that, sir. I must warn you that if I were to scream, you'd be in trouble," you say, composing yourself as you observe the man looking at you curiously. Perhaps he knows that you wouldn't scream because it would ruin your reputation, or maybe he is part of the Bridgerton family, considering your mother warned you that there were three older adult brothers.

"Do you really want my family to know that I'm inappropriately dressed near you? Let me guess, you're desperate for a marriage and want to make your life easier by tying me to you?" The man speaks as he straightens up, buttoning the rest of his shirt.

"How dare you accuse me of such a strategy, considering that it is you who is in the quarters assigned to me, improperly dressed, and with an attitude worthy of pity. Honestly, my last thought at the moment would be to force a scandal so that you would have to become my husband," you reply, holding yourself near the door, keeping yourself away from whoever this Mr. Bridgerton is in front of you.

"Forgive me, Miss, but I don't trust a word coming out of your mouth at the moment. However, I assure you that this type of situation is not customary. I was trying to enter through the window of my room or one of my brothers' rooms, but I ended up in here. I had no idea that you would be arriving today. In fact, I'm being rude at this moment. I am Viscount Anthony Bridgerton," he says, approaching you cautiously as if analyzing you. Perhaps he is trying to figure out if you are an opportunist or not.

"Without intending to be rude, but already being so, whether you are a Viscount, Prince, or Duke, I don't care. What matters now is that no one finds out that we are alone here," you say, looking him squarely in the eyes, as if to firmly convey that you absolutely do not want them to be discovered.

"If you can draw the attention of the people in the house to yourself for a couple of minutes, I can leave the way I came in. Do you think that would be possible?" Anthony says with a certain petulance. However, a bold idea occurs to you. You give him a determined look and then step closer to him, bringing you both very near to each other.

"I'll simulate a small fall down the stairs. You'll have the time it takes for me to miraculously recover. Be efficient, Viscount Bridgerton," you say briefly and storm out of the room, aware that spending more time in the Viscount's presence would be a real test of your self-control. The room was starting to feel quite warm.

You descend the stairs, doing your best to appear slightly unsteady. You kick the last step with all your strength before reaching the bottom of the stairs and let out a loud groan of pain, loud enough to be heard from afar. You even manage to tear up a bit, waiting for everyone to come and check on you. Just as you are lightly sprawled on the floor, a man walks through the door. You don't remember being introduced to him before, but he is certainly a Bridgerton. He sees you and immediately rushes towards you.

"Miss, are you alright? Can I help you up?" The man asks with a concerned and caring expression. Knowing that Anthony needs more time, you let out a cry of complaint as if in fake pain when the Bridgerton in front of you tries to help you up. At that moment, you start to be surrounded by several people.

"Oh, I think I twisted my ankle, but there's no need to worry. I just need a moment," you say, uncertain if you can keep up the pretense much longer.

"My dear, don't strain yourself. Benedict will help you to a room where we can call for Dr. Lewis to examine you," Lady Violet Bridgerton says as she lightly touches the arm of who you presume to be Benedict.

"May I?" Benedict asks seconds before you nod your head in agreement. But to be honest, you're not even sure what you're agreeing to. Until Benedict lifts you, asking you to put your arms around his neck. You hold on tight to him, somewhat afraid he might drop you.

"Mr. Bridgerton, you are very kind. I believe you didn't need to lift me. But I am grateful for your help," you say as you are leaned close to Benedict's chest, which you now notice is slightly exposed. What's with the Bridgertons today that everyone is showing more than they should?

"I must admit, before my family enters here, that it was amusing to take part in your charade. It was quite artistic of you. I hope you'll call on me if you want to star in another theatrical piece to get my brother out of trouble. Have a good afternoon, Miss Y/L/N," he says all this as he gently releases you onto a sofa. He doesn't seem angry or anything like that; genuinely, he seems to be enjoying himself. As soon as he leaves the room where he left you, the rest of the Bridgerton family and some servants surround you. Now you'll have to pretend to be in pain for a little while longer while you're intrigued not only by one but by two Bridgerton brothers.

[basil-does-arttt]

I listen to a LOT of music, right? mostly the DMC soundtrack. so heres some shit i just found interesting while listening and noticing stuff, in no particular order:

In Nevan's theme, if you listen really closely from about 1:15 - 1:27, you can hear a background track really similar to 0:31 - 0:44 in Ultra Violet. Its not exactly the same but it was similar enough to make me pause for a minute and go back to listen again. Similar to above, in The Duel, if you listen closely throughout the song you'll notice that guitar riff sounds traumatically familiar to 0:37 - 0:48 in ASSAULT from DMC 2 (aka, that stupid fucking helicopter.) Intentional? Probably not, but i cant listen to that track the same way again lol The choir in Vergil 3 and Devils Never Cry are actually the same, just in Vergil 3 the pacing of it has been shifted a little, and in Devils Never Cry its a little slower also. It has the same notes in the same order otherwise. Also in Vergil 3, have you ever noticed how playful the track seems in parts? Most notably, the beginning? I plan to write a full analysis of all 3 of Vergil's themes in DMC 3, but i just found this interesting to note considering how otherwise serious the fight is. And also in Devils Never Cry, ive noticed the beginning sounds eerily like what you'd hear at a funeral, especially with that church organ in the background. Fitting, for a scene right after Vergil lets himself fall into hell. this one is probably obvious but can go unrealized, but DMC 5's Divinity Statue theme is the only DV statue theme in the series that isn't primarily a chior track. The track "Public Enemy", as it's named in DMC 5, is named "Pubic Enemy" on Spotify. Actually all of DMC 1's soundtrack on Spotify is a long sex joke. (Pubic Enemy, Red Hot Juice, Final Penetration, IM COMING!, and Blue Orgasm)

DMC 3's Mission 4 theme is actually saying all the deadly sins, which took me an embarassingly long time to realize. that squeaky noise heard in the background of EYE OF THE WIND in DMC 2 is actually first heard in ST-07 in DMC 1. For some reason i thought that squeaky noise was a DMC 2 exclusive thing because its just that annoying. Yamato 2 in DMC 4 from 0:15 - 0:50 uses the same kind of violin track that's used in most - if not all - of Arkham's scenes in DMC 3 (a good example being this track from 0:10 - 0:40), which i also find interesting considering how much of a story point Vergil was in that game, and how Yamato in a way represents him in DMC 4. anyway thats all for now i may reblog in the future with more discoveries if i find them :]

[serialexperimentsviolet]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

💜💜💜💜hi i'm violet. i'm 18, use she/they pronouns, i'm bi, and i'm a trans woman and non-binary.

i've had tumblr for a while and since instagram is run by a misogynist neo-nazi that looks like he's trying to cosplay as a 15 year old boy, twitter is run by an almost comically evil manchild, and tik tok just did a pr stunt for donald fucking trump, i want to try and distance myself from those apps so i'm gonna try and be active here more instead so it's introduction post time.

music is like my favorite thing ever. one of my hobbies is literally just laying in bed and listening to music. (partly because my adhd + insomniac ass sometimes doesn't have the energy to do anything else.) right now i'm totally obsessed with björk, and one of my most iconic character arcs was when i became extremely hyperfixated on kali uchis in october 2023 and she quickly became my most scrobbled artist on last.fm. (@VioletBlueAlbum if you want to follow me over there. 😳😳😳😳)

Some of my other favorites are beach house, slowdive, duster, sweet trip, charli xcx, my dead girlfriend, sophie, magdalena bay, ethel cain, the cure, parannoul, a tribe called quest, anri, marina, etc. etc. i'm always trying to discover new music so if you want totally feel free to send me recommendations.

i play violin and guitar and try to write and produce my own music, although i'm awful at committing enough to get anything anywhere near finished. if i ever do finish anything maybe i'll share it here.

another main hobby of mine is gaming. i've mainly played rpgs ever since i played undertale and earthbound when i was like 9-10 and they altered my brain chemistry. four years ago i played 13 sentinels aegis: rim and it's been my favorite game of all time ever since. (if you like it let's PLEASE be moots the fandom is so small i need to talk to more people that have played it. 🙏😭)

yet another iconic character arc of mine is falling in love with and being hyperfixated on final fantasy 7, leading me to spending the majority of the past year going through the entire compilation. i'm currently on rebirth and i adore it so far.

some other games/series i'm a fan of are megaten, splatoon, portal, dragon quest, insomniac's spider-man, animal crossing, guilty gear, hades, mario, celeste, (obviously 🏳️‍⚧️) portal, ultrakill, the last of us, the legend of zelda, cave story, omori, sonic, (the few that i've played) class of 09, and astrobot. and while most people have an annual two week minecraft phase, i have an annual two week fortnite phase.

i don't watch a ton of shows and movies but when i do it's usually anime. my favorite of all time is k-on, followed pretty closely by violet evergarden, which i connected to so much that i stole her name. jojo's bizarre adventure, and serial experiments lain have both been huge parts of my branding for years.

other favorites of mine are attack on titan, the disastorous life of saiki k, neon genesis evangelion, kaguya-sama: love is war, monogatari, fooly cooly, dr. stone, clannad, cyberpunk edgerunners, madoka magica, chainsaw man, and goodnight punpun. (i know the last two are manga but i don't read enough to make a whole seperate manga section.)

ok that's all, if you read through that whole snoozefest i really appreciate it i know it got really long. 💜💜💜💜

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[prettylittlelyres]

I'm about to put a "Christmas episode" section into my plan for the third "Violins and Violets" book for this exact reason! You think it's not advancing the plot to show Katharina spending Christmas with her friends? Oh. You are wrong. The seeds for so many plants are being sown in those scenes... So many.

crying and sobbing y'all when people said that you only add scenes that advance the plot they didn't JUST mean the overarching plot. they meant the plot of the book... entirely. like a conversation between two friends can advance the plot by characterizing them and grounding them with a meaningful relationship. if your book doesn't have "filler" it's missing emotional beats. which are plot. which are important. fun and whimsy aren't mutually exclusive from what "needs" to happen in your book. the advice isn't bad it's just taken too literally stop come back.

[prettylittlelyres]

I just knocked over my cup of tea and it spilled into the keyboard for my laptop. I've mopped up what I could but I think it's under the keys as well and I'm now quite terrified about what happens next.

Backing up my work now while I still have a working laptop. Praying that my keyboard is more waterproof than it looks.

[chic-a-gigot]

La Mode nationale, no. 7, 20 février 1897, Paris. No. 24. — Toilettes de promenades et de visites. Bibliothèque nationale de France

(1) Grande fillette. Corsage-veste non ajusté en lainage violine, revers semblables et grand col entourés de galon violet, col en fourrure; manches Empire, jupe courte et ronde avec galon en bas. Chapeau canotier en feutre, orné par de grandes coques de ruban écossais posées en aigrette.

(1) Big girl's unfitted jacket-bodice in purple wool, similar lapels and large collar surrounded by purple braid, fur collar; Empire sleeves, short, round skirt with braid at the bottom. Felt boater hat, decorated with large shells of Scottish ribbon placed in an egret pattern.

—

(2) Toilette de visites en satin vert saule, forme princess. Corsage croisé sur soie brochée bleue et paille, formant l'autre côté, col montant sous une ruche, manches petit ballon bouillonné en soie brochée, jupe princesse, ouverte sur les côtés par des plis en soie brochée. Toque de satin bouillonné avec fond Chouberski, et sur le côté grosse fleur d'où s'élance une aigrette.

(2) Visiting ensemble in willow green satin, princess shape. Crossed bodice on blue brocaded silk and straw, forming the other side, high collar under a ruffle, small bubbled balloon sleeves in brocaded silk, princess skirt, open on the sides with pleats in brocaded silk. Toque of bubbled satin with Chouberski background, and on the side a large flower from which an egret soars.

Métrage: 11 mètres satin, 3 mètres soie brochée.

—

(3) Toilette de ville en vigogne caramel. Corsage croisé fermé par des pattes, sous ceinture de velours, grands revers et col en velours semblable, encadrant une chemisette en mousseline crème. Jupe plate, plissée derrière, ouverte sur le côté, où elle est fermée par des pattes. Chapeau rond en feutre, orné sur le côté par un gros nœud, derrière lequel s'etagent une suite de plumes couteaux.

(3) City ensemble in caramel vicuna. Crossed bodice closed with tabs, under velvet belt, large lapels and collar in similar velvet, framing a cream muslin shirt. Flat skirt, pleated at the back, open on the side, where it is closed with tabs. Round felt hat, decorated on the side with a large bow, behind which are a series of knife feathers.

Métrage: 9 mètres vigogne grande largeur.

—

(4) Grande redingote en drap léger gris de fer, à dos ajusté et flottante devant. Devant boutonné sous des pattes, col très montant, manches petit ballon, jupe plate, plissée derrière, poches sur le côté. Toque de drap gris de fer, avec choux de ruban bleu sur le côté et plumes de coq en aigrette.

(4) Large frock coat in light iron gray cloth, with fitted back and flowing front. Buttoned front under tabs, very high collar, small balloon sleeves, flat skirt, pleated at the back, side pockets. Iron gray cloth cap, with blue ribbon on the side and egret rooster feathers.

Métrage: 6 mètres de drap gris de fer.

—

(5) Toilette de ville ne granité de laine bleu hussard. Corsage plat soutaché de noir, petite veste à pointe dessus, col en toile rabattu sur cravate écossaise; manches Empire soutachées noir, jupe brodée dans le bas, plissée derrière. Chapeau rond en feutre pain brûlé orné sur le côté par un groupe de coques en aigrette.

(5) City ensemble with hussar blue wool granite. Flat bodice trimmed in black, small pointed jacket on top, canvas collar folded over a tartan tie; Black attached Empire sleeves, embroidered skirt at the bottom, pleated behind. Round burnt bread felt hat decorated on the side with a group of egret shells.

Métrage: 9 mètres granité de laine grande largeur.

[lemyondre]

Arcane Act 3 Spoilers

I would like to kill myself at this present moment.

LORIS NOOOOOOOO

Maddie yes that bitch can die oh finally.

THE SCENE. YIPPPEEEEE

We all won. CaitVi sex scene, TimeBomb canon, JayVik canon (its Canon because because because of they made the butterfly while embracing each other. Quite homosexual of them)

Also in ep7 when Vik and Jay were fighting, he should've smooched him on the forehead even though that shit would've hurt

Isha dying does make me sad... but I think Isha's death is there to remind Jinx that not everything is her fault and that sometimes you do things for the people you love.

STROMAE COMING OUT TO DROP.

The music this act hurt me what.

The way I knew that hooded man was Viktor.

So Sky isn't Viktor's guilt, she's his humanity and when she left, his humanity left too.

MEL MEDARDA THE WOMAN YOU ARE.

I'm sorry can we talk about Mel.

NOW WE KNOW LIKE WHY EVERYONE CAN BE INFLUENCED BY HER. It's the black girl magic- I mean the magic. The Solari magic.

Her new fit🔥😏😏

Ambessa's love for Mel is something that I can relate to but I also can't relate.

The way Heimerdinger died bro🫠 now the lorax is gone

Ekko in the alternate timeline is my man gng.

SILCO AND VANDER RRAAHHHHH the zaun dads

Silco gets hotter? I did state that I have the hots for silco..

BENZOO RRAAHHHHH. Zaun uncle

Poor Ekko, I can imagine how he felt literally seeing his dead father figure and uncle.

Now I don't think anyone can watch Arcane from the beginning without thinking about season 2.

JAYCE SUPPORTERS FOR THE WINN RAHHHHHH.

COUNCELOR SEVIKA AAAAAAA

Caitlyn and Violet had a scene in a Jail cell. In contrast to how they met. That is very Picasso, very Slay

I think Viktor and Jayce's relationship is beautiful and it evolved like a butterfly.

WHY DID VI DIE IN OTHER TIMELINE MY HEART.

Jinx is not dead guys😃

Everything hurts. My eyes hurt. The last time I cried this hard for a piece of media was probably Rise of The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie.. OH and Good Omens s2e6

Okay, but Arcane is a piece of media that is the prime example what executives should be doing and that's giving artists time, paying them right and NOT TAKING THEIR FUCKING JOBS!!

Further.. I think I might combust. A03 fics anyone? Like any recommendations because I am off to listen to the music now which is a bad idea because when I'm done, I'm probably gonna come back here crying to tell you about how To Ashes and Blood has a bigger meaning and that the full version of Enemy is about Jinx and Ekko.

YES IT IS BECAUSE the Violins represent Jinx and her aggressive nature (they play soft then aggressive) and JID's part had ticking. LIKE A CLOCK?? HELLOOOO???

I'm gonna go be like spongebob and tweak in my room. Peace yall.

Thank you for the soul

Thanks for the tears

Thank you for the reunion

Thanks for the playfulness

Thank you [can't explain.]

Thanks for listening to us

Thank you for understanding

Sigh. Thank you.

Thank you for the memories

Thanks for searching

Thank you Alexander Seaver of Mako and Alexander Temple for everything.

[prettylittlelyres]

This is how Violins and Violets turned into a series of five books, instead of just one! It's also how Chapter 9 of the first book has ended up being almost as long as the first eight chapters combined.

characters said this is my story and i get to choose the actions

[moplayspoke]

I’ve been listening to playlists for each series and found my favorite songs that I think capture their love stories perfectly. May contain spoilers.

1) The Empyrean / Fourth Wing : Violet x Xaden

- Skin and Bones (David Kushner)

- Still Into You (Paramore)

- Luminary (Joel Sunny)

2) ACOTAR : Rhysand x Feyre

- Until I Found You (Steven Sanchez)

- A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)

- Interstellar - Piano & Violin Version (ViOLiNiA Zhanna Stelmakh)

3) Powerless : Paedyn x Kai

- Nobody Gets Me (Sza)

- im yours (Isabel LaRosa)

4) Divine Rivals : Iris x Roman

- Wicked Game (Annaca and Frederick Lloyd)

5) One Dark Window : Raven x Elspeth

- Under Giant Trees (Agnes Obel)

[minhosimthings]

Hold me Without Hurting Me

Chapter 7: Violets and Violins

A/N: In which an old friend fills your life with flowers again, along a bumpy sided road.

Pairings: Ceo!Jay × Ceo!fem!reader, includes rest of Enhypen and certain other groups

Warnings: angst-fluff, hurt/comfort, friends to enemies to fake dating to enemies to lovers, Mentions of food and alcohol, swearing, jay comfort, nothing much but it's a bumpy story.

Story prompt: If I had a flower for every time I fell in love with you, I would walk in my garden forever. (This story is based on the language of flowers.)

SERIES MASTERLIST

"Ma'am I got the reports for today's meet- Ma'am?" Jungwon stopped in front of your figure sitting on the loveseat. You were hunched over a book, an album it seemed, dusty and very akin to a relic at a natural museum. "Uh Ma'am? Ma'am." Jungwon snapped his fingers to break you out of your hypoxia. "What- oh yeah Jungwon." You snapped the book close and sat up more straight, almost knocking over your laptop, which thankfully Jungwon saved.

"Sorry." You mumbled, carefully putting your laptop in your bag, "Anyways do you have something for me?" Jungwon cleared his throat and handed you the blue file he was holding. "Here are the reports for today. I checked all of them and they prove your theory of supply and demand, so I assume you can wipe the smirk off of Mr Minho's face with these." You smiled at Jungwon's perseverance and carefully looked through the files. "Oh and also-" Jungwon took out a letter from out of nowhere and handed it to you, "Mr Park sent these."

The letter was pretty, red in colour and embroidered with what seemed to be gold threads. You carefully tore open the letter with a hair pin that was lying nearby. Something dropped onto your lap. Two pieces of paper. You put the letter down and picked up the paper. They were tickets. To a violin concert.

"Are those tickets to a violin concerto Ma'am?" Jungwon looked up curious, his cat like eyes widened. You handed one of the tickets to Jungwon for him to look at, while you scanned the tore letter again. Something fell out of it.

"Oh wow." you scoffed as you ran your eyes through the paper which was decorated with scribbled handwriting. "Anything wrong Ma'am?" Jungwon peeked. "He wants both of us to come down to a violin concert today, before the meeting. As a second date apparently." You threw the paper into the bin, "Kayla will be there too." You added as an afterthought to a confused Jungwon.

"So will we be going?" Jungwon hesitated. "I mean-" you ran your fingers through your hair, a plan forming in your mind, "-we have to I guess. Pick out a suit Jungwon." You got up with a smirk forming on your face, "I'm going to surprise my boyfriend today."

"Kayla how do I look?" Jay fixed his tie in front of the mirror, looking at all of the imperfections on his suit. "Sir how am I supposed to answer to that question?" A young, brown haired girl, holding her bag tightly in her hands answered. "I need to impress her today." Jay said to no one in particular, "Kayla-" he suddenly called to his assistant, who was quick on her toes to listen, "-this Jungwon boy. How is he life?" Kayla turned a burning red through her dark skin and looked at her heels. "Well sir-" she chuckled nervously, "-I don't think it appropriate to talk to my boss about my crush. But he's a really good guy, surprisingly intelligent. He looks a bit like my cat and he absolutely loves curry. Although I don't think you'll find any of that information important." She hesitated and Jay chuckled. "Well thank you for that. And yes-" he picked up his pocket square, neatly tucking it into his pocket, "-Y/N does always choose the best people to serve her. She's got an eye for those sort of things. And Kayla, let me ask you something-" he went towards the door, Kayla meekly following behind him, "Does Jungwon ever talk about his work?" Kayla smiled shyly and got into the elevator along with Jay. "Funny you should ask that sir because that's the only thing he doesn't talk about. He says that Miss Yang prefers her employees not bring work into their personal life." Jay chuckled again, this time looking at his reflection in the glass elevator. 'She hasn't changed', he thought to himself, 'not a single bit. Still the same flower girl I knew.'

"Ma'am are you sure that your outfit is, pardon me for saying this, appropriate?" Jungwon fiddled with his fingers as both of you rode the elevator down to the hall. You noticed Jungwon had a habit of fiddling with his thumb whenever he was nervous. "It's alright Jungwon." You adjusted the straps of your dress, "He'll know what's coming for him. You look very smart by the way, in that suit. Good choice." Jungwon's ears turned red again and as he mumbled his thank you's, the elevator door opened up to reveal the hall. It was fairly empty, what with it being afternoon, everyone would probably be out escaping into the winds of Seattle.

You spotted Jay sitting nonchalantly on the red couch, along with his assistant. He looked weirdly handsome today, dressed in a sleek black suit which perfectly outlined his figure. For perhaps the first time you noticed how handsome he had gotten since you were children.

"Sir Miss Yang has arrived." Kayla stood up before Jay did. He had been immersed in twirling a bouquet of violets in his hands, which brought back memories he had hoped to surpress.

His mind, however, malfunctioned when he was your figure approaching. If there really was a heaven he probably was in it. "Ready darling?" You spoke, keeping your tone innocent as if you didn't know what you were wearing at all. Jay looked you up and down atleast a hundred times, analysing the dress you were wearing. A black dress, with a slit at your thigh with spaghetti straps. Very elegant, he thought. "Yeah of course." Jay smirked, "Come on babe we don't want to be late." You stumbled for a moment as to why Jay didn't respond to your seemingly masterful plan. "Y-yeah let's go." You mumbled, letting Jay wrap his arm around your waist.

"If you expected a reaction out of me from wearing that dress-" Jay scoffed, reading his newspaper in the car, "-good plan." You crossed your arms and sulked quietly in the far end of the car. Kayla and Jungwon were travelling in the car behind you, a disappointment to you, since you would much rather be sitting with both of them rather than the menace next to you. "Violets Jay, really?" You picked up the bouquet he had gotten you and stroked the sweet smelling flowers, "Modesty." You mused to yourself, hoping Jay wouldn't hear the tone of fondness in your ears. It brought back memories, memories of young, dumb love, which you had hoped to let die in your mind. It brought back pictures of a boy climbing through a window, holding your hand through the night as the thunder raised on, hearing all the things he said to you when he thought you were asleep.

"Well good news is-" Jay handed you the newspaper, "-my lawyer and mother are getting suspicious of the relationship so a meeting between them can be arranged soon enough, you'll get your reward and I'll get mine." You looked over the headlines of the newspaper and amused yourself. "Park Jay and Yang Y/N! Buisness or Love?"

"Quid pro quo, I guess." You tucked the newspaper into the car seat. Jay merely stared out the window, seemingly lost in thought. You decided to look outside too, seeing all the flower shops which were back in store. "Hey Jay?" You called. "What?" "Rude." You scoffed to Jay's cold response, "you know what never mind." You crossed your arms and sulked quietly as Jay rolled his eyes. "What is it?" He grunted, looking out through your side of the window, to see what piqued your curiosity. "I assume you wanna ask something about the flowers?" "Yeah." You brushed a hair out of your face, "Why do they still keep the shops open when it's raining? I mean wouldn't it be better to shut them down?" Jay blinked at the question for a moment, before he let out a cold laugh. "Y/N," he said, "This isn't Seoul that you can just shut the shops down and everything will be alright. Nah, Seattle is called the flower garden of America, and the thing is these flower vendors who sell authentic, real, flowers, they don't get paid much. People nowadays don't prefer going to individual shops. Usually some big buisness person buys them at a low rate and then sells them for higher prices. " He scoffed, "Pathetic honestly."

"Why doesnt anyone do anything about it?" You asked innocently, "I mean, according to most laws, buying any good at a lower rate, ranging lower than what it takes to manufacture that good, is kinda illegal isn't it?" Jay let out a cold laugh again. "Babe-" he wiped a tear from his eyes, "If I could do anything about it, I would. You do know I basically control the economy of this city right? But the thing is it would anger some very important people if I did that, which could cause a drastic fall in economy so I prefer to take the safer option." You slightly recoiled yourself from Jay, disgusted at his choice of words.

"This is a beautiful place." You stated, stepping into the grand hall, lined with chairs and the biggest stage you had ever seen in your life, with curtains in the deepest shade of ruby red, decorating the wooden seams perfectly. "I know." A smug smile formed on Jay's face, "That's why I bought the tickets." You decided not to fire back at him, having been already annoyed to a point that nothing you said seemed to something he couldn't fire back at.

"Tickets please, sir." The man in the black vest with voluminous gold buttons bowed to you, clutching a tiny scissor-like device in his hand. You handed him the tickets with a kind smile, which he returned gratefully. "Thank you." You said briefly before disappearing with Jay into the rows of seats. Jay seemed to have gotten you prime seats right in front. "Where are Kayla and Jungwon sitting?" You looked behind at the people filing in as soon as you sat down. "Front row, about sixteen seats away from us." Jay said, nonchalantly, checking his brochure, "Thought I'd let them have their privacy." "Or did you wanna be alone with me, Park Joengsoeng?" You smirked, holding your head higher, as an elegant looking couple, wearing dramatic costumes of peacock feathers plopped down next to you, engrossed in conversation. "Oh shush." Jay put the brochure into his pocket, "You still haven't let go of that horrible habit of making assumptions too quickly have you? Still haven't let go of the habit of thanking every fucking person either." He scoffed and folded his arms, staring up at the stage, at the staff preparing the instruments. "What do you mean by that?" You glared at him, "I don't thank everyone." "Oh really?" He cocked an eyebrow up, "So you didn't definetly just thank the ticket guy there, who smiled at you as if he hadn't been thanked for a century?" "It's called kindness you asshole." You spat back, "Maybe you'll learn it one day."

The concert started soon after. Captivated by the way the bows danced across the strings of the violin, you failed to notice the expression Jay had on his face all throughout.

It was a peculiar thing for him, to feel whatever he was feeling right now. It felt like the time his mom fed him soup when he was down with the flu or when his dad taught him to ride a motorcycle on a Sunday night. It felt odd... but amazing, to see your eyes filled with stars, as your eyes were pleasured by the canvas of music. Jay felt his ego go up a bit. You enjoying something he picked out? Bravo Jay, you've done it. He had a lingering feeling in his stomach, as the show ended and you clapped with all your might, your face encapsulated into the widest grin, but he ignored the feeling, choosing to stare straight ahead, wondering what the future may bring, as he had done five years ago.

[fashionbooksmilano]

Des oiseaux Paolo Roversi

Texts : Chiara Bardelli Nonino, Guilhem Lesaffre

Atelier EXB, Paris 2023, 88 pagine, 20,5x26cm, copertina rigida, fotografie a colori e b/n, lingua inglese, ISBN 978-2365113854

euro 60,00

email if you want to buy booksinprogressmilano@yahoo.it

Maître de la photographie de studio, Roversi a substitué au top-mode, pour une série réalisée au Polaroïd grand format, des oiseaux de fauconnerie. Figure de la photographie de mode, directeur artistique et grand portraitiste, Paolo Roversi collabore depuis plus de quarante ans avec les plus prestigieuses maisons de haute couture, parmi lesquelles Dior ou encore Yohji Yamamoto. Nimbés de lumières saturées, hiboux, chouettes et faucons posent face à l'objectif. L'approche minimaliste du portrait et les tons monochromes, qui ont fait la signature du photographe italien, donnent à voir dans toute leur majesté un faucon royal, un hibou moyen-duc et une chouette princière. Les oiseaux, posés sur un tabouret ou le dossier d'une chaise, se tiennent avec élégance, regards parfois étonnés d'être là, devenu sujet digne d'attention. Le temps paraît suspendu : dans des tons violines ou presque vieil or patiné, la présence tranquille, l'envol soudain, le regard surpris des oiseaux confinent presque au pictural. La grâce de ces rapaces, la beauté de leurs plumes et la puissance de leur présence se révèlent sous la gélatine argentique et dans les couleurs évanescentes caractéristiques du photographe. Cette série inédite de Roversi offre un nouveau regard sur les oiseaux : leurs liens aux hommes, comme modèle artistique.

For this fifteenth title in the collection, the great fashion and portrait photographer Paolo Roversi invites falconry birds into his studio and produces an intriguing series in which owls, owls and falcons appear drenched in saturated light on large-format Polaroids. The Italian photographer's signature minimalist approach to portraiture and monochrome tones reveal these birds of prey in all their majesty. Installed on a stool or the back of a chair, the birds pose elegantly, their eyes sometimes astonished to have become subjects worthy of attention. Time seems to stand still: in shades of violet or almost old gold with a patina, the birds' quiet presence, sudden flight and surprised gaze almost verge on the painterly. This new series by Roversi offers a new way of looking at birds: their relationship with man, as an artistic model.

21/01/24

[elipheleh]

Music - Henry's Music Room, with special guest Bea

The only room that really feels like both Henry and Bea is a small parlor on the second floor converted into a music studio. The colors are richest here: hand-woven Turkish rugs in deep reds and violets, a tobacco-colored settee. Little poufs and tables of knickknacks spring up like mushrooms, and the walls are lined with Stratocasters and Flying Vs, violins, an assortment of harps, one stout cello propped up in the corner. -Chapter 8, Red White & Royal Blue

This post features youtube links, rather than the spotify links of the other posts, simply due to the nature of the music involved. As such, I've put the whole post under a read more to save space. I want to thank @zukoinmypocket for all her help and willingness to be a sounding board for a stranger!

-----

Link to the masterpost/contents page for the music posts

Link to the masterpost/contents for the whole series

-----

In the center of the room is the grand piano, and Henry sits down at it and plucks away idly, toying with the melody of something that sounds like an old song by The Killers.

-----

Henry's classical music influences appear to be all - aside from the Killers! - within the Romantic era of music. The Romantic period in Europe was at its peak from 1800-1850, but dates throughout the 1800s. The former era was known as the Classical period and is commonly associated with the composers Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert.

-----

So he just listens and nods and smiles a little while Henry explains that this is what Brahms sounds like,--

Husband and wife duo, Lang Lang and Gina Alice Redlinger, play Brahms' Hungarian Dance No. 5.

-----

--and this is Wagner, and how they were on the two opposing sides of the Romantic movement. “Do you hear the difference there?”

R Wagner-C. Marín: Concert Paraphrase of "The Ride of Valkyries". Carles Marín, piano.

-----

His hands are fast, almost effortless, even as he goes off into a tangent about the War of the Romantics--

The War of the Romantics is a term used to describe the schism that emerged in Germany between two groups of Romantic composers, in the latter 1800s. The split - 'war' - was between those who defended the classical tradition - the absolute group which included people like Brahms - and those who were progressive - the program music group with Liszt and Wagner, among others.

Program music was descriptive, inspired by things like literature, or other non-musical inspiration, whilst absolute music's meaning was solely the notes on the page - inspired by nothing outside the music itself.

Liszt's piece linked below is a good example of program music, being connected to the poem "O lieb, so lang du lieben kannst!", as is Scriabin's piece Henry references.

Both forms added to classical music, program music - like Wagner - created new genres within the form, and absolute music - like Brahms - made old styles of music align with contemporary styles.

-----

--and how Liszt’s daughter left her husband for Wagner, quel scandale.

Liszt's daughter - Cosmina - actually had three children with Wagner whilst still married to her first husband.

Liszt's Liebestraum No. 3 - this piece is based a lovely poem, "O lieb, so lang du lieben kannst!" ("Oh dear, as long as you can love!")

-----

He switches to an Alexander Scriabin sonata, winking over at Alex at the composer’s first name. The andante—the third movement—is his favorite, he explains, because he read once that it was written to evoke the image of a castle in ruins, which he found darkly funny at the time. He goes quiet, focused, lost in the piece for long minutes.

Alexander Scriabin's Sonata no. 3, Andante

-----

There's something very interesting - and very in keeping with Henry's characterisation - that he was written as being interested most by Romantic era music. Not only are many Romantic pieces tied to literature and art - and we see Henry's love for both displayed in the book - but the Romantic period involved the rebellion against traditionalist expectations, and emphasised passion over reason. We can see this tying into Henry's storyline - he is, by his reluctance to willingly closet himself for the 'image' of the monarchy, rebelling against the traditionalist norms and expectations that surround his life as a prince of England. It's his passion, his love for Alex which leads him to stand up to his grandmother - the Queen, analgous to the Classical era's traditionalism - and refuse to back down over his desire not to lie about the emails and photographs which outed him.

The Romantic era, in many ways, worked to break the rigid standards that previous composers had been aligned with in the Classical Era and before. This makes an interesting analogy with Henry's interest in Romantic music - especially with the reference to Scriabin's imagery of a castle in ruins. Throughout Red White & Royal Blue, Henry is looking for ways to subvert the rigid expectations that come with being a prince. Multiple times in the book, Henry chooses to do the opposite of what he 'should' do, often when he is frustrated with his family. For example, in Chapter 8, after Phillip has been questioning Henry about his actions & suggests Henry should try to align his friendships more with those 'fitting' for a member of the royal family, Henry says to Alex: "I want to do the absolute last thing I'm supposed to be doing right now."

Henry's characterisation fits in with his appreciation for Romantic era music, in ways that aren't apparent at first glance. Henry & Alex's (happy) ending - breaking the rigid standards the Queen attempts to enforce on Henry as well as challenging the traditionalist expectations - parallels both common themes in Romantic music and the evolution of how the composers rejected traditional styles and created their own.

-----

“You know, Bea has only ever wanted to play music,” he starts. “Mum and Dad played too much Joni Mitchell for her growing up, I think. -Chapter 7

Sources/Additional Reading: Wikipedia - War of the Romantics ClassicFM - The War of the Romantics BBC iWonder - Dr. Caroline Rae discusses the ‘War of the Romantics’ Art And Popular Culture - War of the Romantics ClassicFM - What was the War of the Romantics? Russell Ger Composer - War of the Romantics Wikipedia - Romanticism Encyclopedia.com - The Challenge of Romanticism: Literature and Music Willan Academy - A Quick Summary of Romantic Music OpenALG - Music & The Human Experience, Chapter 11 Connolly Music - The Romantic Period of Music

[e-adlirez]

Can you tell me about the stars academy series? Like, how much Thea sisters content is there that wasn’t translated into English?

Oh god for the second question you have no idea what rabbit hole you're getting yourself into

But the first question is far simpler so I'll cover that first:

Stars Academy is a spin-off where the premise is this: Violet, Colette and Pamela are accepted to do a summer Master's degree in Stars Academy, a very prestigious performing arts academy situated in Broadway, New York. Think of it like uh, the Curtis Institute of Music for music nerds, or Totsuki Culinary Academy for the weebs. The selection process is extremely selective and so is the master's degree itself-- less than 50% of entrants actually make it to the end and receive their master's degree. What happens to the other 50%? Well, you know what happens when a student just can't keep up with the curriculum and is only flunking harder and harder with each exam.

Oh yeah, Nicky and Paulina? Yeah they applied/auditioned with the girls but they didn't make the cut so they're chilling in Mouseford :'D

Anyway so one other interesting thing about the curriculum is that uh... you don't get to choose what you're majoring in for the master's degree :D everyone's doing something along the lines of performing arts, from acting to dancing to singing to music stuff. The way the school works is they look at you and your credentials, and give you a master's degree that'll either enhance your current skillset or pad things out and give you another tool in your belt. How does that apply to the girls? Well uh, Colette is very fond of dance (specifically ballet), Pam is good at acting and would probably make the next member of Starkid Productions (/j), and as we all know Violet is planning to be a violinist so she'd want to go in that route.

The academy chose an Acting degree for Colette, a Dance degree for Pam, and a Music Composition degree for Violet. And they have no way of changing the academy's decision :D soooo shenanigans :DDD

Anyway yeah so that's Star's Academy in a nutshell, it's basically a taste of the girls experiencing stuff in a different school, different environment (look Mouseford is cool and all and hella prestigious but the vibe is the student body is full of Max Jägerman-certified nerdy prudes), different classes and of course, having to adapt to courses they think don't suit them :D Vi in particular is Family Guy deathposing at every step of the way because uh, learning music theory and composition, while a part of a lot of musicians' repertoire, is something very different from musical performance and Vi can't even use her violin as something to lean on for most of it :DDD she eventually gets through it tho without dropping out! It just takes a loootttt of floundering and dealing with the five stages of grief before she gets to that point. Oh yeah and the course has mandatory singing classes. Vi's shy ass is having a lot of fun with that one.

Okay so that's Stars Academy, hope that answers your question ^^

[pascaloverx]

DANDELIONS

Summary: You are the new guest of the Bridgertons. Your mother, an old friend of Lady Violet Bridgerton, has requested that you spend a season at the Bridgerton house in hopes that you will change your perspective on true love and marriage. You are convinced that love is a fictional construct and that a marriage without love will be your downfall; but some time with the Bridgerton siblings might change your mind.

Author's Note: The characters belong to the Bridgerton universe and Julia Quinn. However, the story will have some changes from what happens in the Bridgerton series (2020-). Dear readers, this story may contain strong language and steamy romance scenes. It may even feature a love triangle. Be warned and enjoy the reading.

ONE THREE

TWO

The next few days at the Bridgerton house are chaotic yet incredibly fun. Between walks and conversations with Eloise, helping Francesca with embroidery during silent but very focused hours, and spending time reading with Colin, who introduced you to his favorite books and recommended others, you are quite busy. Every day you have tea with Lady Violet Bridgerton, who is enthusiastic about the idea of finding a suitor for you during the ball season. You try to share her enthusiasm, but the truth is that spending time with her family seems more adventurous than getting married. Today, for instance, you are taking Hyacinth and Gregory to pick some apples in the garden. In reality, Gregory wants to practice archery, and you think it would be a good exercise for the younger ones. Regarding the two older brothers, you have been avoiding them. It's not an easy task, but with Lydia's help, you have managed to escape any moments alone with them. You feel embarrassed for pretending to be hurt in front of one and for covering for the other. Daphne is the only one you have yet to meet, but according to the Bridgerton family, you will soon. Recently, Eloise introduced you to a close friend named Penelope. You found her to be very perceptive and kind, which is good since she seems to be part of the family, and you want to make a good impression.

"Lady Violet Bridgerton, I assure you that the three of us will be very careful while picking apples. When I was Hyacinth's age, it was my favorite pastime," you say as you finish adjusting your shoe. Lady Bridgerton still looks a bit concerned as she watches Hyacinth and Gregory run off with their bows and arrows. You smile, imagining how it will be to spend time with them.

"Believe me, dear, you will need someone to help you with those two," Lady Violet says, somewhat nervously. You look at her, feeling uncertain, and then you hear someone approaching the room where you are.

"I believe I can be of use as the older brother at this moment. I was just finishing up some financial matters, and it seems that fresh air will do us all some good," Viscount Anthony Bridgerton says, surprising you and Lady Violet. You know that Lydia will be joining you, but staying with him and the younger siblings seems like a risk.

"That won't be necessary, Viscount. There's no need to disrupt your busy schedule when I am more than capable of handling this task with my companion," you respond instantly, as if the answer were at the tip of your tongue. Anthony gives you a mischievous smile, indicating that he plans to accompany you anyway, which makes you feel a bit uneasy. Lady Violet, however, seems more relieved.

"Miss Y/L/N, forgive my frankness, but it seems that you do not desire my company. If that is the case, I would like to clear up any misunderstanding by reaffirming that I will be accompanying you and my siblings on this apple-picking outing," Viscount Bridgerton says assertively, taking a step closer to you. You stare at him, almost forgetting that there are others around you.

"Viscount, I can assure you that such an impression is a misunderstanding. I would never have any problem with your company. I simply would not want to disrupt the busy life of a Viscount, especially as a guest in his house." A lie on your part, as you really want to avoid spending time with Anthony. The Viscount Bridgerton is one of the most sought-after men in society. One wrong rumor about the two of you, and your mother would be demanding a wedding at Queen Charlotte's doorstep in a matter of minutes.

"Y/N, I can assure you that my son, busy as he may be, always finds time to spend with his siblings. You will essentially be helping him look after the younger ones. And certainly, my son will be honored by your company," Lady Violet says, lightly tapping her eldest son's arm as if expecting him to support her statement. Anthony nods slightly, as if in agreement.

"In that case, please join us, Viscount. Goodbye for now, Lady Bridgerton," you say, looking kindly at Violet and heading towards the exit of the house. Gregory and Hyacinth follow you while Anthony says something to his mother and then approaches you. Your companion, Mrs. Lydia, comes behind you silently. She seems to want to give you or Anthony space to talk. The two teenagers seem to be having fun walking among the trees.

"Miss Y/L/N, how long exactly do you intend to avoid me?" Viscount Bridgerton speaks near you, pretending to pay attention to something else so that Lydia doesn't suspect he's trying to talk to you.

"You don't need to pretend to be looking for bees among the flowers, Viscount Bridgerton. Lydia won't suspect you. As for your question, I think it's fair to say that given the nature of our last encounter, some distance seems plausible." You try to answer his question without really answering it. He smiles slightly, but it's a nervous smile. He watches the siblings ahead of us, while Lydia takes the opportunity to chat with the young Bridgertons.

"I wasn't pretending. A bee around here is too dangerous. But getting back to our main topic, I would like to apologize for the first impression I gave you," he says as if it were an obligation for him to say so, without truly wanting to apologize. You look at him, finding his pretense amusing.

"Apologies accepted, Viscount. Was that why you wanted to come with us? To apologize for your mistake?" You ask as you and Anthony walk side by side. Hyacinth and Gregory shout, calling for their brother and you as they find an apple tree.

"Not only to apologize for my mistake," Viscount Bridgerton clears his throat loudly, "but also to give you the chance to apologize to me." As soon as Anthony says this, you shoot an arrow accurately at one of the apples at the top of the apple tree that Gregory and Hyacinth are looking at. The two are pleasantly surprised and shout that your aim is great. However, Viscount Bridgerton seems to have become nervous, perhaps even a little irritated.

"Apologize to the Viscount for what reason?" You ask as you both stop walking and face each other. He seems indignant for some reason.

"For not behaving as a lady of your stature should. Surely you know you should have forced me to marry the young lady because of what happened. Don't get me wrong, I don't want to get married, and certainly not to you. I just think that in your place, I would be more concerned about this issue," Anthony says presumptuously, leaving you offended. You look him up and down and smile. He seems not to understand.

"Viscount, I must say that you seem to have misunderstood what happened. You intruded into a room designated for me, a lady. Yet somehow, you think I owe you something. Very well. I give you a warning: if a situation like this happens again, I will be your wife faster than you can pronounce Bridgerton." Your threatening tone seems to intrigue the Viscount.

"Is that a threat, Miss?" Viscount Anthony Bridgerton speaks as if surprised by the way you speak to him.

"The trick to hitting a target like that is to always have concentration and patience. A bit of determination is also appropriate." As you approach Gregory, who can't take his eyes off the arrow, you notice Anthony looking at you with a hint of mockery.

"I believe the young lady is mistaken. Hitting the target is about strength and often talent." You hear this and feel as if he is belittling your technique. So, you raise your bow and arrow in his direction, holding it out to the Viscount in front of you.

"Try to hit the target with your method then, Viscount. Let's see which one of us knows more about what we're talking about." You say, challenging him. He doesn’t hesitate to try to hit an apple almost in the same place you did. He is so sure he will surpass you that it's almost comical when his arrow hits an apple below yours. Gregory and Hyacinth are shocked while he shows no expression.

"Dear brother, I think Miss Y/L/N's method seems to be more effective," Hyacinth says with a humorous tone. Anthony looks annoyed.

"I want to try hitting the target using your tactic, brother," Gregory says as he grabs his own bow and arrow. Hyacinth laughs at him while he struggles to place the arrow on the bow.

"I actually prefer using Miss Y/L/N's tactic," Hyacinth says, showing you how quickly she can place the arrow on the bow. You guide her to focus on the target and tell her to think of something that makes her angry to make her more determined. You can hear Anthony assisting Gregory. Anthony and you exchange glances while helping the younger ones practice archery. Later, you all gather some apples together.