#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.

[ikeprinces-stuff]

🤍[𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐈𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐬' 𝐃𝐞𝐧]🤍

A/N: Hi! chapter 11... It took longer than I thought. March was very heavy and slow for me... yeesh. What do y'all think of the chapter's cover!?? 😆😆✨✨

Pairing: Leon Dompteur x Romarin [female OC]

Words: 3k

Series: Rhapsody Of Life [Masterlist for the past chapters]

Tagging [NO PRESSURE] : @reborn-elven-spirit @chirp-a-chirp @aquagirl1978 @wistfulwanderingone

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

Romarin hesitated as Marlene led her to the grand doors of the Round Table Room. Even before stepping inside, a chill ran down her spine, the fine hairs at the nape of her neck standing on end. She had walked through the halls of many noble estates before, yet none had prepared her for what awaited beyond this threshold.

"This is as far as I can go," Marlene murmured, stopping a few steps behind her.

Romarin exhaled slowly. "Thank you, Marlene."

The maid tilted her head, eyeing her missus with mild amusement. "Why do you sound like you’re heading to a battlefield?" she teased. "You’ll be fine."

Romarin’s gaze remained fixed on the heavy doors. "And what if I won’t be?" she whispered, lowering her voice just enough to avoid being overheard by whoever lurked beyond.

Marlene scoffed, crossing her arms. "There you go again, acting as if you’re walking to the gallows! You didn’t do anything wrong. If anything, you saved the king!" Her excitement carried her voice a notch too high, and she immediately winced, pressing a hand over her mouth.

Romarin let out a weary sigh, her shoulders tensing. "That’s exactly what worries me…" She rolled her shoulders back, a motion almost reminiscent of a fighter preparing to step into the ring.

Marlene took a step back, recognizing the resolve in her stance. "I’ll wait for you at the garden. Good luck, miss," she said softly.

Romarin’s fingers tightened around the handle. There was no turning back now.

"Here goes nothing," she muttered, pushing the door open and stepping into whatever fate awaited her on the other side.

•°•°•°•°•°•

Nine pairs of eyes bore into her. Some familiar, some belonging to strangers. The silence in the room stretched long enough to feel suffocating, thick with an unspoken weight. No one moved. No one spoke.

Romarin’s gaze flitted from one face to another before landing on the one she recognized most—the man seated at the center of the grand table. The reason she was here. Leon.

A sharp, almost serpentine hiss slithered through the silence behind her. "Miss Romarin."

She flinched, a soft, startled noise escaping her lips—like a bird whose feathers had been plucked too soon. Turning on instinct, her eyes met a man cloaked in shadow, his glasses catching the light as he adjusted them. His violet gaze, dark and enigmatic like sugilite, studied her with amusement.

"I imagine you're wondering why you've been summoned." His voice carried an edge of mockery.

Romarin's grip on her violin case tightened. She wasn’t an idiot. She knew exactly why she was here.

A smooth, sultry chuckle broke through the air. "So, this is the legendary musician?" The voice dripped with intrigue, a flirtatious undertone curling around his words. "I must say, after all the chaos she’s caused, I expected someone a little more… feral. Not this lovely, delicate thing."

Her head turned sharply toward the speaker. That tone. That demeanor.

Sleazy.

She had seen him before. Several times, in fact. His name eluded her, but the smugness was unmistakable.

"Nokto," another voice cut in, firm with authority. "I know you're shameless, but at least pretend to act with some decency. Have you forgotten she's still recovering from her injury?"

Romarin recognized the speaker at once. Yves.

But before she could process his concern, another voice—quieter, colder—spoke from nearby. "You're wasting your breath, Yves."

She turned, studying the man beside Nokto. The resemblance between them was unmistakable, though their presences couldn't have been more different. This one… was his twin.

"I have to admit," another voice rumbled—rough, deep. "She's quite the catch."

Romarin's looked at the voice's owner, her brow arched at the recognition.

"Yves is right, Jin, now's not the time." someone else chimed in lazily. His posture was far too relaxed for the tension in the room. His presence didn’t hold the same regal air as the others, but it was clear he somehow does and doesn't belonged here.

"Well, there’s no need for Chevalier and me to introduce ourselves, considering we've already met."

Romarin’s eyes flicked to the wisteria-haired man. His words carried an effortless, teasing lilt, but his gaze held a knowing glint.

Beside him sat the man she had met in the garden earlier. Unlike the rest, he appeared wholly uninterested in the conversation, his expression unreadable, his eyes shut as if this entire ordeal was beneath him.

The room was growing smaller by the second. The air, heavier. The weight of nine princes and their king pressing against her like an unspoken challenge.

“Now she’s going to think you are all a bunch of utter weirdos.,” a voice she did recognize—one far too familiar—spoke with exasperation.

Her breath hitched slightly. Vernard.

Their gazes met. His expression remained unreadable, but she could sense the restrained irritation lurking beneath. He was analyzing, calculating. The same as always.

A hum of amusement followed. "Maybe we should let her tell us what she thinks, Verny," the voice she had been dreading finally spoke.

Romarin stiffened.

That confident smirk. That insufferable, knowing look.

Leon.

The very reason she was in this room. The man responsible for dragging her into this mess.

Her fingers curled into a fist at her side.

That smile. That damn smile.

She wanted to punch it straight off his face.

"Isn't there something important to be said right now?" Romarin asked, her voice cutting through the lingering tension in the room. She swept her gaze across the gathered royals, waiting—no, daring—one of them to say something of actual substance instead of the nonsense she'd been listening to.

Nokto let out a low chuckle, his smile curling with amusement. "Straight to the point, huh?" he murmured, voice like a velvet whisper.

Sariel, still standing beside her, adjusted his glasses before speaking. "It’s quite clear why you’ve been summoned." His tone was calm, matter-of-fact. "You performed a rather noble act the other day."

Romarin's brows furrowed. Noble act?

Sariel turned his head slightly, and for a brief moment, his sharp violet eyes met hers. Was it just her imagination, or did she see the faintest flicker of something—almost like… amusement? But he didn't dwell on her reaction. Instead, he took measured steps forward until he stood beside Leon.

"By saving His Majesty, the royal family is now owes you," he declared.

Romarin blinked. "Owe me…?" she echoed in quiet disbelief.

Leon finally spoke, his voice as steady and composed as ever. "I told them what happened."

Jin leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, his tone gruff yet laced with a smirk. "Leon wants to repay you. And perhaps, in some way, that means we all do. Isn’t that right, boys?"

His gaze swept over his silent brothers. A few exchanged glances, but none denied it.

"You should be honored," Yves added, adjusting his posture as if addressing someone of noble standing. "It’s not every day we find ourselves in someone’s debt."

Romarin barely resisted the urge to roll her eyes.

"We discussed at length what we could offer you," Clavis chimed in, his usual teasing lilt laced in his tone. Then, with a knowing smile, he added, "Since you saved our dear king, you’re entitled to whatever you desire." He leaned forward slightly, eyes twinkling. "That’s the part you were waiting for the most, wasn’t it?"

"Not exactly," Romarin muttered under her breath. She tilted her head, skepticism flickering in her eyes. "Whatever I desire…?"

Nokto exhaled an amused hum. "An itinerant musician being given the chance to ask for anything from a royal family… this already sounds like something out of a fairy tale." He cast her a sideways glance, his smirk deepening. "Now the real question is, what will she ask for?"

Romarin sighed, pretending to mull over the decision. She finally let out a small breath. "Well…"

A pause. A slow, deliberate one.

Then—

"Can I get a new violin?"

Silence.

The weight of it was almost comical.

A choked sound broke through—Leon, barely containing a laugh.

Romarin raised an eyebrow. What, was that not dramatic enough for them?

"That’s all?" Yves asked, incredulous.

She shrugged. "I am a violinist. Can’t exactly continue my career without one, since the previous one got shattered during my 'noble act'" Her voice was deliberately casual, even as she glanced at the royals, noting the way some of their smirks faltered into something closer to disbelief. Even Chevalier, who had remained seemingly detached from the conversation, cracked open one eye at her words.

"Disappointed?" she asked, unimpressed with their stunned expressions.

Clavis let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "You really are something, aren’t you?" he mused. "Perhaps we should have specified, as long as it’s within our power."

Romarin arched an eyebrow, her tone carrying the faintest edge of mockery. "You mean to tell me that bringing me a violin is beyond Your Highness’s power?"

Silence. Then, another round of exchanged glances.

A slow grin spread across Clavis’s face, a glint of intrigue in his golden eyes. He leaned closer to Leon, voice dropping into a whisper—one Romarin definitely still heard.

"I think I like her."

Leon, who had been watching Romarin quietly all this time, merely gave Clavis a sideways glance. He didn’t say a word.

But Romarin saw it—the tiny flicker of something in his expression.

Amusement.

Or maybe… something more.

Sariel adjusted his glasses with practiced ease, his sharp gaze fixed on Romarin. "We can give you a new violin, Miss Romarin," he said, voice cool and measured. "But on one condition."

Romarin arched a brow. "Let me guess," she deadpanned. "Don’t tell a soul." She pressed a hand over her heart mockingly. "My lips are sealed. Lock them up, toss the key straight into the Benitoite's ocean, and let the waves take care of the rest. Now—" she exhaled, her impatience bleeding through, "will you grant my request so that I can go on my way and pretend this never happened?"

Sariel sighed, a small, knowing smirk forming at the corners of his lips. "Interesting," he mused. "You expected these terms. It makes me wonder—" his violet eyes gleamed behind his glasses, "how many times have you found yourself in situations like this?"

Romarin’s expression didn’t waver. "Well, apart from the fact that there was an attempt on my life… several times," she shrugged, as if brushing off a mere inconvenience.

"The condition is simple," Vernard cut in, his tone vague yet firm. "You must remain under protection… until the dust settles."

Romarin narrowed her eyes. "And what exactly does that mean?"

"You know why they tried to kill you," Licht said, his voice cold, void of sympathy.

The moment the words left his lips, an unpleasant throb pulsed beneath the fabric of Romarin’s dress—where her wound lay hidden. The memory of that night, the blade, the blood, the fear—it all resurfaced in an instant.

"And for that reason," Nokto continued smoothly, slumping into his chair with a smirk, "we’ve decided to keep you as our guest."

His words echoed.

"Keep you"

Romarin felt her stomach twist.

Oh great. The sentence she least wanted to hear.

A silence stretched between them before another voice cut through the air—calm, but weighted.

"You did anticipate this outcome, didn’t you, Birdie?"

Chevalier.

Romarin turned to him, irritation flashing in her eyes. "Weren’t my assassins already arrested?" she asked, voice clipped, as if forcing herself to believe it.

Leon, who had remained silent, finally leaned forward, his sharp gaze meeting hers. "Those three?" he scoffed slightly. "They were just breadcrumbs."

Romarin stiffened.

"Our biggest concern…" Leon’s voice darkened, his piercing amber eyes studying her reaction.

"…is the loaf."

A heavy silence filled the room.

Romarin inhaled sharply, her mind racing.

"And what exactly does that have to do with me staying here?" she demanded, stepping forward. "You are the ones with power, with influence, with strength! With a mere wave of your hand, you could have the real perpetrator thrown into prison—or straight to the gallows!"

Her voice had risen slightly.

Tension crackled in the air. The princes exchanged glances, sensing her growing frustration.

She knew what was happening.

By ordering her to stay under their protection—by keeping her here, as their guest—they were stripping her of her freedom. She wouldn’t be able to go where she wanted. She wouldn’t be able to take a single step without thousands of eyes tracking her movements.

Not just because she had survived an attempt on her life.

But because she had witnessed the murder of a noble family.

And now, she was trapped.

Like an injured bird placed in a golden cage—for its own safety.

They weren’t protecting her.

Romarin clenched her fists.

They were caging her.

And she hated it.

"Listen, sis," Luke started, tipping his chair back as he folded his arms behind his head. "I get what ya mean, really—but those baddies are gunnin’ for you." He let out a small tsk and shook his head. "Might even send some fresh ones to shut you up before they’re locked away for good, you know that, right?"

Romarin huffed, crossing her arms, making no effort to maintain etiquette—not that she cared in the first place. “I should be the last thing on their minds. Seriously, let’s pretend I was even asked to testify against these so-called ‘baddies’—why the hell would anyone believe me?” She shot a glance around the grand table, unimpressed. “Think about it. You all really expect them to take the word of some random woman who waltzed into Rhodolite from—hell if I know where—and suddenly starts accusing nobles? And let’s not forget,” she gestured vaguely, “the entire mansion went up in flames, probably just to burn the evidence and make it look like an accident.”

Silence.

A heavy, suffocating silence.

Romarin felt her stomach drop slightly.

"...We never said the culprits were nobles, did we?"

Chevalier’s voice cut through the quiet like a blade.

Romarin stiffened.

Dammit.

That reaction alone was enough to confirm it.

"And that—" Sariel sighs, his tone smooth but sharp, "is exactly why they’ll come after you again."

Romarin let out a dry, exhausted laugh. "Great."

"Face it, dear Romy," Clavis chimed in, leaning forward with an all-too-charming smirk. "Whether you like it or not, the only way to stay alive—avoid being assassinated again—and get back to your little musical life is to accept staying here." He tilted his head slightly, his golden eyes glinting with amusement. "And trust me, you’re gonna want to stay alive, right?"

Damn him.

Damn him for being right.

She hated this.

Her gaze flickered to the one person who hadn't spoken.

The reason she was here.

The reason she hadn’t died that night.

Leon.

He had stayed silent this whole time, but she could feel the weight of his gaze. Was this all his decision? Was this why she was being caged here?

Romarin exhaled sharply, clenching her fists as frustration clawed at her chest. "Why me…? Why…?"

"Is that a ‘yes’?" Vernard asked, his voice laced with a rare hopefulness.

Romarin groaned, dragging a hand down her face before pinching the bridge of her nose. "Just..." she inhaled, steadying herself, "give me a violin and have someone show me the damn garden."

Silence.

Then—

"That’s a yes."

Leon finally spoke.

And, to her absolute irritation, he was smiling. And that was enough confirmation that, when things settle down, she's going to wipe that smile off his face.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

As soon as Romarin was out of sight, the silence in the room unraveled into murmurs, laughter, and contemplative sighs.

"Wow, Leon," Clavis was the first to break, shaking with laughter. "If I hadn't seen her myself, I never would’ve believed you when you said she actually smacked someone with her violin."

"I must congratulate you in advance, King," Jin smirked, his tone laced with playful mockery.

"You've got good taste," Nokto added smoothly, shooting Leon an amused glance.

Yves, however, wasn’t as entertained. Arms crossed, he leaned forward, his brows furrowed. "Are you really sure about this, Leon? I mean, I know you want to protect her, but…"

"It seems she can protect herself," Licht cut in, voice low.

Leon exhaled, running a hand through his hair. “I know what you mean. I’ve thought about it for days. And I know—this is the only solution.”

Sariel, ever composed, adjusted his glasses. “Miss Romarin is more than just the woman who took a dagger for King Leon. If the perpetrators learn we have a living witness in our possession, it may unsettle them.”

"But she was right." Jin leaned back, arms draped over the chair. "People won’t care about her testimony. They’ll tear apart her background first."

"And all fingers will point at us for believing her," Yves added, his frustration thinly veiled beneath his usual poise.

Vernard, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. "We have more than just Romarin as a witness." His jade-green eyes weren’t focused on anyone in the room. Instead, they seemed to be locked onto something—or someone—beyond it.

“You mean the three who tried to kill her?” Licht arched an eyebrow.

Vernard nodded.

“They confessed to the attack, yes,” Licht continued, “but their testimonies weren’t enough to convict the ones behind the Marcels’ murder. Their only mission was to silence Romarin.”

“And the fact that she’s still alive proves just how much of a threat she is to them,” Nokto added, his tone laced with something dark.

Leon’s eyes remained shut as he listened, as if weighing everything against something heavier. When they finally opened, they were sharper, more calculating.

"There’s still not enough evidence," he murmured. Then, after a pause, his lips curled into a knowing smirk.

“And that’s where we play our biggest trump card.” His gaze flickered toward Nokto and Clavis.

“Oh, I see where this is going.” Clavis grinned, catching on immediately.

Yves, still tense, leaned in. “This is about Zultanite, isn’t it?”

"Our new friend seems to be having a rather difficult time mourning his dear father," Clavis mused, his words thick with mockery as he glanced at Nokto.

"Naturally," Nokto rolled his eyes, sinking further into his chair. "The funeral isn’t quite what we expected. Sure, people are dressed in black, but…" He trailed off, letting the words hang, teasing the anticipation in the room.

"But?" Sariel pressed.

Nokto’s lips curled, his expression taking on a chilling edge.

"They’re playing their roles well—pretending to mourn, shedding just enough tears for appearances. But underneath? They couldn't care less that Duke Espen is dead."

The weight of his words settled over the room.

"Very well done," Nokto continued, his voice a low drawl. "A flawless act of grief. But the truth? The truth is far more interesting."

"Explain," Sariel commanded, his tone sharp.

Clavis took over, clearly enjoying himself. "No one’s actually mourning Duke Espen’s passing—not really. The only reason there's a funeral at all is because Zultanite’s people respect the dead, no matter who they were. And the one insisting on holding it?" He let out a short, amused breath.

"Evander," Leon finished.

“Exactly,” Clavis nodded. "Even his own son barely grieves him. That tells you everything you need to know about the kind of man Duke Espen was."

A ripple of understanding passed through the room. The disunity, the fractured bonds—not just between father and son, but between the province and its late ruler.

Zultanite wasn’t mourning.

It was celebrating.

And that, in itself, was a weapon they could use.

The weight of Clavis’s words settled over the room like a dense fog. It was one thing to know a man had been despised, another entirely to stand among his people and feel the absence of grief like a gaping wound in the air. The late Duke Espen’s name was now nothing but dust in the mouths of his people, a specter they would rather see buried and forgotten.

But the fractures ran deeper than just a father and son. The province itself was split—not by war, not by famine, but by something more insidious. Indifference.

“Not only that,” Nokto said, voice smooth but sharp-edged, “we couldn’t get a single step closer to him because of… his guests.” He let the word hang, a vague, teasing specter that immediately had the others narrowing their eyes in thought.

Guests.

The meaning was clear enough. They had already made a strong guess as to who these ‘guests’ were the moment Evander had arrived in Rhodolite. They weren’t just visitors. They were vultures, lingering just long enough to see whether there was still something worth scavenging.

“Evander, however, did his best to ignore them,” Clavis continued, a glint of amusement flickering in his golden eyes. “They were desperate for his attention, but he didn’t even look their way. I have to say, he’s something of a master in the art of ignoring.”

Leon leaned forward slightly, fingers tapping against the table, his gaze flickering with quiet calculation. “Approaching him too soon would’ve jeopardized everything. If anyone suspected his plans before they were official, it could’ve cost him more than just a political standing.” He let the unspoken words linger. In a province where power shifted like sand, a single misstep could mean death.

Sariel adjusted his gloves, his ever-measured voice breaking through the tension. “Would it be best, then, to hasten the declaration of affiliation? Before anything happens to Evander?”

“We still can’t fully trust him, despite what he’s offered,” Yves said firmly, his words like a blade honed over quiet contemplation.

Leon exhaled, tilting his head back slightly. His smile was unreadable—too easy, too self-assured, the kind that made even his closest allies wonder how much of the truth he was keeping to himself.

“You’re right, Yves. It’s not easy to trust a man whose family was once aligned with the anti-monarchy faction.” His tone was even, but there was something almost lazy about the way he spoke, as if he was weighing his own words against an invisible scale. Then, his lips curled into something sharper—decisive. “But he’s offered his province to us. That alone earns him a chance. And besides—” his voice dipped into something amused, “—I’ve heard some interesting things about Zultanite County. Its people. Their… peculiar way of living.”

That last line held weight. Zultanite was not like Rhodolite. It was a place of shifting allegiances, of whispered deals in the shadows. A land where power wasn’t held by birthright, but by the willingness to wield it, no matter the cost.

For a long moment, the only sound in the room was the sound of fingers tapping the table. Then, finally, the voice that had remained silent all this time stirred the air like a slow-turning blade.

“You’d better have a good idea for how to handle this, Black.” Chevalier murmured, his words carrying the weight of steel against bone. His piercing gaze was locked onto Leon, waiting. Calculating.

Leon merely chuckled, closing his eyes briefly before letting them flicker open once more, his confidence unwavering.

“Don’t worry about it.”

It wasn’t just empty bravado. He had a plan. One that involved not just Romarin, not just the assassins, but Evander Sierra—a man whose family name had once held enough weight to tip the scales of war.

And now? Now, that name was a blade waiting to be sharpened.

All they had to do was wield it first.

°•°•°

𝐓𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐝>>>>>>>>>>>

[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 :]

[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.

[acringyassclown]

Series of Unfortunate Events Headcannons

(for the tv show, i never properly read the book or watched the movie)

as adults all three of them hate going to see live theatre, but they love going to the movies,  often times they wont ask ahead of time what movie they are seeing, 

While studying engineering Violet works part time as a handywoman

While Klaus’s part time job at his school’s library, during breaks you can often find him reading on a range of different topics including the incomplete history of secret organizations, judicial law, herpetology, the history of grammar and language, hot air balloons, circuses and fortune telling, submarines and aquatic adventures, and hotel management.

When working on projects (for school or personal) All three siblings always make sure their grammar is correct

Sunny learns to play the piano when she’s older but when asked by her teacher if she’d like to try the violin she quickly shuts it down

On cold days or on visits to large bodies of water (especially lakes) the siblings always make cold cucumber soup and drink their water with lime in it, much to the confusion of others

as an adult sunny has a pet snake named Vera D. Lively

One of Violets first “professional” inventions is a state of the art pet feeder, and when she models it at conventions she always uses a pet iguana 

In her spare time Violet can often be found working on a hot air balloon or a trailer in her backyard

If you go to Sunny’s house you can always find some marshmallows tucked away in a pantry, out of place surrounded by all the hard foods and snacks

[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]

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

[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.

[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)

[spiderraeken]

make me write (please)

tagged by the glorious @chasing-chimeras and @transdunbar

send me an emoji in my asks and I'll do a sentence per emoji

~~

💋 50 types of kisses drabble series

🧬 the science behind ceiling stars and inherited violins

⛓️ the cage fic part three

🐈‍⬛ hybrid au (violet/theo/liam)

💥 nalecett smut oneshot (title tbd)

✈️ plane go whoosh

~~

no pressure tags:

@outcastpack @equallyloyalandlethal @xtarmanderx @de-constructmybones @snaeken @akirasstories @theoceanismyinkwell @wolfboy88 @mmoosen @ksbbb @gayholloway

[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.

[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.