#wicked game cover my beloved

[myladyofmercy]

IT'S HERE!!!

[angelremnants]

A TALES OF... l Bound Intentions

OR.. When you find Loki bound and silenced, you can’t resist teasing him—until your playful banter turns into a dangerous game of wit and power.

pairing : Loki Laufeyson x f!reader

warnings : Flirtation and teasing, power dynamics, mild bondage, strong language.

word count : 1.7k

author's notes : I couldn't sleep. So, what better but to write about my beloved God of Mischief? Find the continuation here–can be read separately.

(ao3 version)

Your boots clicked against the cold stone floor of the dungeon, the sound deliberate and sharp in the thick, musty air. Shadows danced on the damp walls, broken only by the flickering light of torches. You entered the dim chamber, your gaze immediately locking onto Loki.

He was slumped against a crumbling wall, his wrists bound by glowing Æsir chains that thrummed with enchantment. His lean figure was restrained tightly with his arms pulled taut above his head, raised just enough to look uncomfortable but not enough to diminish the regal tilt of his head. A glimmering metal mouthpiece covered his sharp tongue, rendering him silent—probably for the first time in centuries. The dim light flickered across his face, accentuating the sharpness of his cheekbones and the green glint in his narrowed eyes.

You stopped in your tracks at the doorway, folding your arms and tilting your head as a slow, wicked smile curved your lips.

A thrill, cold and exhilarating, jolted through you. This… this was a glorious sight to behold.

“Well, well, well. Now this is a sight I could get used to,” you drawled, leaning casually against the doorframe. “The infamous Loki, prince of Asgard, silenced and at my mercy. Whoever put you in this deserves a round of applause.”

The silence was thick, almost oppressive, broken only by the faint creak of the chains as Loki shifted. Though muted, the tension in his body and the deliberate twitch of his wrists told you everything you needed to know—he wasn’t truly helpless. You took your time, your gaze raking over him like a predator savoring its prey. Loki’s narrowed green eyes glared at you, his jaw tightening beneath the mouthpiece, but he couldn’t do more than shoot daggers at you with his eyes. Unfortunately for him, it only fueled your amusement.

“Perhaps I should keep you like this for the rest of our little quest. It’s almost… poetic.”

Loki’s muffled growl rumbled from behind the mouthpiece, his body tensing against the chains. You clicked your tongue, taking a few leisurely steps forward, circling him like a predator sizing up its prey. “Oh, don’t look at me like that,” you said, sauntering closer. “You earned this one, being all pompous and stubborn as usual. Though, if I’m honest…” You said, sauntering closer and leaning forward with mock concern. “You really do look your best, all bound up like this. You’re a lot less annoying when you can’t talk. I’d even say you make for a good dungeon decor.”

The stagnant air seemed to crackle as Loki’s muffled snarl filled the space. “What was that? Oh, sorry, I couldn’t hear you over the sound of your dignity crumbling.” Loki’s eyes rolled, and he shifted slightly, testing the chains. They clinked ominously, but there was no give. You chuckled at his futile efforts as you reached out to examine the chains, your fingers grazing the runes etched into the metal.

“Of course, it had to be Æsir magic. Great, just great.”

You sighed, as if put upon by the sheer inconvenience of rescuing him. “Alright. Hold still, Princess,” you teased, enjoying the way his eyes flared at the nickname. “I wouldn’t want to accidentally set you on fire.”

You swung a leg over him, straddling his thighs to get a better angle on the bindings. Loki froze, eyes widening slightly, but you remained unfazed. “Oh, relax,” you teased, your fingers beginning to trace the runes on the chains. Her breath brushed against his neck, and you didn’t miss the way his chest rose sharply. “I’ll be gentle.”

The chill of the room contrasted with the sudden heat of his gaze, his chest rising and falling sharply beneath you. You glanced down at him, not missing the flicker of irritation in his gaze. “It’s almost tempting to leave you like this. Maybe drag you around for the show.” You tilted your head, your voice dipping into something more sultry. “I bet you’d hate every second of it.”

Your fingers moved deftly over the glowing runes, trying to figure out a way to lockpick the restraints. His eyes burned into yours, and when you finally caught his gaze, you froze for just a moment.

Loki’s expression was a mix of defiance and frustration, but beneath it all, there was a flicker of something unreadable, something infuriatingly captivating about the way he looked at you, even bound and silenced. For a brief moment, you were distracted, your fingers pausing against the glowing metal.

With deliberate slowness, you slid down your palms flat on his thighs to steady yourself, leaning in just a fraction closer. “You know,” you muttered, your voice low, “it’s a real shame. A bastard like you doesn’t deserve eyes that pretty.”

You let your gaze linger for a moment too long, watching Loki’s gaze darken, making a muffled sound of protest as you chuckled softly, your fingers sliding back over the runes as you returned to your work. “Don’t get any ideas. You’re still insufferable.”

Before he could move, you flicked your fingers, summoning an iridescent ribbon of light from your palm. The ribbon shimmered with hues of green and pink, twisting sinuously through the air before wrapping around his torso in one swift motion, pinning his arms to his sides.

“Not so fast, Princess,” you quipped, tapping against your cheek to indicate that you still had to remove the chunk of metal on his face. You grinned at his glare, fully aware he wasn’t truly helpless. Though, you couldn’t help but needle him further.

His eyes flashed dangerously, and you could practically hear the retort he wanted to spit out. You grinned, leaning in close as you focused on the last restraint, your fingers grazing his jaw as you worked to release it. When the mouthpiece finally clicked loose, Loki let out an audible sigh, though his expression immediately darkened.

“Call me that one more time,” he growled, his voice low and biting, “and I’ll show you exactly why I’m the god here.”

“Oh, don’t be so dramatic,” you replied airily, tightening the glowing light binding him in an instant.

His lips curled into a slow, dangerous smirk. “You think this will hold me?” he asked, his voice low and taunting.

“For now,” you replied airily, tugging on the ribbon to force him to his feet. “You’re lucky I didn’t leave you like that. I was tempted.”

Loki’s lips curled into a slow, dangerous smile. “You should know that for someone so smug, you’re remarkably untrained.”

You froze, your eyes narrowing as you glanced at him. “What are you implying?”

“It means,” he drawled, his voice velvety smooth as the ribbon wrapped around him started to crackle, “that for all your talk of power, you’re woefully reliant on me to clean up your messes.”

You scowled, pulling back slightly. “I’m not reliant on you.”

“Oh really, now?” he asked with a mocking tone. “Then tell me, little lady, how do you plan to escape undetected? Let me guess—more glowing ribbons?”

With a casual flick of your wrist, your auroral rope snapped to life in response and tugged sharply, pulling Loki off balance to where you stood. “Careful, Mischief,” you said, your voice sharp, “or I’ll leave you tied up here and let the guards have you.”

“Oh, darling,” Loki said, his voice dripping with amusement as he leaned forward just enough to close the space between them, “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re enjoying this. Straddling me, binding me in your light. I quite like this side of you.“ he grinned wickedly, his confidence entirely undeterred. “But if you’re going to try to outwit me, at least commit to it.”

A jolt of adrenaline surged through you. You felt the rough stone beneath your knees as you knelt beside him. The air grew thick with tension, the only sound the erratic thumping of your own heart.

“I’m not relying on you for anything, Loki,” you insisted, your voice low and dangerous.

He leaned closer, his eyes gleaming with amusement. “We’ll see about that,” he purred.

Before you could react, Loki’s magic surged, wrapping around yours like a conniving snake, his clever fingers slipping through the weakened edges of your ribbon. In a fluid motion, he spun you around and caught your wrists, pinning your hands behind your back as he flushed it against his chest.

You gasped, glaring up at him. “Let go.”

“Not until you admit something,” he smoothly answered, leaning down until his lips were just a breath away from your ear. “You need me, mortal. Without me, you’re just fumbling in the dark with borrowed power.”

Though your heart was thumping rhythmically, your eyes flashed with indignation. “And here I thought you enjoyed playing mentor,” you shot back, your voice not betraying your affect. “You certainly love the sound of your own voice.”

He chuckled, his grip loosening slightly as he stepped back, his smirk turning wicked. “Oh, I do enjoy the sound of my voice,” he purred, his tone dripping with playful arrogance. “But my tongue is capable of far more than talking. I can do many things with it—and my voice, if you’d care to find out.”

Your eyes narrowed, your cheeks flushing despite yourself. “Can it, Princess. We don’t have time for your… fantasies.”

Loki leaned in closer, his lips curling into a devilish grin. “They’re not fantasies, darling,” he murmured, his voice low and suggestive. “But I’m always happy to turn them into reality, should you ask nicely.”

The faint sound of approaching footsteps broke your moment of tension. You twisted free of his hold, your ribbon dissolving into sparks as you grabbed his arm.

“Save the lessons for later,” you muttered, pulling him into the shadows. “We’re not out of here yet.”

Loki followed dutifully, though his smirk didn’t falter. “Just remember,” he whispered as they crept through the corridors, “without me, you’d still be in that dungeon admiring the decor.”

You shot him a withering glare over your shoulder but said nothing, focusing instead on navigating the maze of hallways.

“Next time, try not to get caught,” you quipped.

“And next time,” Loki replied, his tone dripping with amusement, “try to learn something before you think about outsmarting me. You’ll need far more than light tricks to best me.”

Her smirk lingered as they slipped into the cool night air outside, the faint chill brushing against your skin. You cast a glance at Loki, his sharp features shadowed by the moonlight, and decided to hold your retort—for now.

The silence stretched between them, not uneasy, but charged with unspoken words and promises yet to be made.

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[wtfsteveharrington]

I need a just the tip smut with richie jerimovich

a/n: richie my beloved <3 thank you for requesting!!

contents: richie's a menace and badgering the reader in a playful way, unprotected p in v, fingering, semi public (we all love that damn office), reader referred to as princess once. when i say this is a quickie i mean it!

word count: 1,420 (lol)

•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*

Richie annoyed you - A lot. Constantly annoyed you in fact!

And things haven’t improved since you made out with in the heat of the moment a few months ago. Arguing outside the restaurant after a particularly rough dinner service. He blamed the way you ran front of house, you blamed him for sending table 18’s second course to table 31 (which he promises he didn’t do) and throwing off the flow of the kitchen.

There was a moment when the arguing turned to silence and the two of you staring at each other. Both trying to read the moment. You still don't know who moved first but it was passionate, sloppy, and seared into your memory.

Thus began a mess of touching and kissing when you shouldn't be. It hadn't gone all the way yet, much to Richie's dismay. The closest he got was eating you out in the backseat of his car which you promptly left after you finished and flipped him off as you skipped to your own car. Richie had to drive home hard and annoyed and teasingly gave you a cold shoulder the next day but you'd catch a wicked grin on his face whenever he turned away from you. Both of you loved this game.

You secretly loved the power it gave you when he'd beg and whine and grab any inch of skin you'd let him. Rutting himself against you, shamelessly needy. You made him feel like a teenager again. Stuck with the urge to fold his pillow around his length and fuck into it to get some source of friction besides his hand. It made him feel pathetic and you feel pride.

He loved it too, don't let him lie to you.

That's how you found yourself in the nice office, hips pressed against the edge of the desk while Richie stood behind you. His hands were cupping your breasts over your shirt, savoring the weight of them in his hands while he grinds against your ass. You, on the other hand, try to act unbothered while you look over paperwork even if the both of you know it's getting to you. Thighs turning slick and warm and God he feels good.

“C’mon, Babe. My dick is fuckin’ rock solid. Help me out, yeah? Don’t you want me focused for tonight or are you really gonna let everyone drown because you won’t help take care of ole Richie?” He’s grabbing a hold of the hem of your skirt, pushing it up at your waist and admiring the way your ass looked covered in some white lacey number you totally didn’t buy with the hopes of him seeing it.

You huff and pretend to be inconvenienced but you're reaching the end of your resolve too. Letting go of the papers you were hyper focused on and instead sliding your hands around your body and pulling your underwear to the side so he, finally, has access to you. There's a loud, drawn out groan coming from the man behind you which has you whipping your head around with a sharp, "Shut the fuck up, Richie."

He's looking up at you now and innocently holds his hands up in the air as an apology. There's wicked smirk as one of his hands come down to trace over your core. A rough finger dragging along the folds, bumping your clit before he presses two into you. "Knew you wanted me too, Princess." You can't help but roll your eyes, still adjusting your position on the desk so you're better able to arch your ass back towards him. "Just the tip."

Richie's motions stall, brows knitting together. "You fuckin' serious?" Which makes you laugh while you roll your hips back, chasing your own pleasure by using his hand that's still against your warm core. "Serious. Now - Just the tip and hurry up before we get caught. Think I'd die if anyone knew I was letting you fuck me raw in here."

His hand slides out of you and delivers a sharp smack to your pussy before he's taking your command and making quick work of his pants. Fine, if you wanted to play this game still he'd make sure to drive you just as insane as you were driving him.

You feel the head of his cock tapping against you now, teasing the both of you by rocking himself against your clit. "You're tryna give me shit but you're this fuckin' wet? Bent over the desk and begging. Play tough all you want but you need me."

"Jesus Christ, Richie. Are you gonna keep running your mouth or fin- Oh!" He's cutting you off as you feel him push into you. The head of his cock barely tucked between your folds as you both adjust to the sensation. He's giving you a second before pushing in another in, letting the tip of him rest snug inside of you.

Richie's rubbing his hands over your ass, the texture difference between your smooth skin and the lace of your underwear driving him crazy. Fine, maybe he was clowning you at first but there's something so... Intimate about this. Or maybe you just already had him whipped and he was hopeless.

He's fucking into you just barely, fully content to play along if that’s what it took to finally find himself inside of you.

There’s a pounding on the door snapping you both out of it. Richie’s startled and accidentally sinking a few more inches into you, both of you fighting every urge to moan. “Dinner service starts in twenty! Finish up your paperwork and get out here!”

You're in the clear. No door handle jiggling, no one barging in.

Everyone knew you took some time right before dinner to ensure there were no missed allergies, reservations, and nothing running short. Everyone knew Richie would take off his suit jacket so it didn't smell like smoke before taking a few minutes out back to burn through some cig's. Splashing on cologne from his car before coming back in. They all probably assumed he was somewhere in that circuit out back.

But yet, here you two actually were.

The two of you stand there, still connected, in silence for a moment. Making sure the coast is clear before continuing this already risky game. Once a few seconds have passed, neither of you know quite what to do.

So you take the initiative.

Rolling your hips back and fucking yourself on the few inches Richie has managed to sink into you. His hands are on your ass now, pulling it apart so he can get a better look at the head of his cock slowly pushing in and out of you. Neither of you dare make too loud of a sound.

Your head falls forward, pressing your mouth against your upper arm to muffle any sounds that threaten to slip out when Richie pulls all the way back just to resink himself halfway in. It's a quick motion but the sound of him just barely gliding through your wetness was sinful. Richie's torn between throwing his head back and savoring the sensation or focusing on what's happening right in front of him, "Fuck you, gonna make me come like this." He's squeezing at the handfuls of your ass, fighting the urge to bury himself completely but knows that isn't your game for now.

You can feel his resolve breaking so you decide to prolong this game. Giving him a squeeze of your muscles around his cock before leaning all the way forward so Richie has to slide out of you. His jaw goes slack and you hear a breathless whine from behind you as he instantly wraps a fist around himself to keep the feeling going. Your underwear are getting put back in place, skirt being folded down as you grab a towel from the pile of clean laundry in the corner of the office and hand it to him with a smirk. "Use this to finish in, don't make a mess of your suit."

Richie can't decide if he loathes you or wants to kiss the ground you walk on. You lean up, letting your lips work his jaw for a moment as you feel the head of his cock press against your thigh while he continues to jack himself off. "Don't fuck up tonight and I'll let you come home with me."

You pull back, throwing him a wink before sneaking out of the office door to go clean yourself up before dinner service. Leaving Richie standing there fucking himself into a rag and laughing at the mess you've made of him.

[buckrecs]

ur account is my absolute go to!!! any chance u could rec biker!bucky fics 🥺🥺🥺

Biker!Bucky

masterlist | req masterlist

ONESHOT

Wanted by @jadedvibes

You consider ending things with Bucky after seeing a girl come on to him, but it's not that easy, and you get a hard reminder about who he really wants in the clubhouse bathroom.

Best Friends? Nah. by @wicked-mind

Classic best friends don’t realize feelings for each other until someone points it out.

Business as Usual by @world-of-aus

Not My Babe by @avecra

After a nasty break up to a nearly two year relationship, you find yourself dragged to a bar by your best friend, though a familiar blue-eyed biker makes the best of your crappy situation.

rough around the edges by @wndalovebot

Let Me Love You Old School by @mysecretlittlelibrary

Bucky meets you at a diner and plans to sweep you completely off your feet.

The Bogeyman and Other Monstrosities by @pellucid-constellations

As the local biker club president, Bucky Barnes had a reputation for being tougher than nails and feared by many—he’d never be caught dead at a halloween street fair. Too bad his best girl always got what she wanted.

Waiting Game by @buckychrist

You knew being associated with one of the most notorious and dangerous biker gangs in the city was bad, let alone scandalously dating their kingpin in secret, but you never thought you’d have to face those consequences. Until now.

Home by @all1e23

Bucky runs into his ex at a winter carnival the MC is helping host, but she didn’t come alone.

Whatever It Takes by @sgtjbuccky

Bucky Barnes knows the way to drive you up the wall in frustration, fed up with it, you show him that you know how to play just the same.

deny me by @drewbarymore

In which you feel like Bucky’s ashamed of you.

Drunk, Dumped and Empty by @green-eyeddragonfanfiction

After a nasty breakup, you go out drinking. After an absolute creep hits on you, you’re saved from a concussion by a mysterious, kind man, who reveals himself to be Bucky Barnes. The bar you’re in is a bit suspect, but you never expected him to be head of a biker gang.

yayo by @sergeantxrogers

“I need you safe. I need you here, and I need you safe, and I need, God please, I need you to let me in, baby, just let me in and I promise I’ll make it all better,” his broken voice pleaded through the door.

Drabble by @fandoms-writings

Biker!Bucky x tattooed!reader

hot and cold by @bucksfucks

you & bucky had never gotten along, but when your ex-boyfriend ransom turns up at the same bar you’re at, bucky goes to every length to protect you.

How To Get Away With Murder by @empyreanwritings

Bucky was always good at helping you clean up your messes, which is why he doesn't bat an eye when you show up on his doorstep covered in your abusive boyfriend's blood.

Hush by @buckysknifecollection

Bucky finds a stray kitten but he doesn’t know anything about cats. A friendly librarian helps him out.

little favors by @onceuponastory

Since Bucky saved her from her shitty boss, Y/N hasn’t seen him again. For a while, she gets closer and closer to giving up hope. Until he comes back. And this time, he’s asking for her help.

SERIES

Swallow by @all1e23

Since he was fifteen years old, Bucky Barnes has only been sure of two things; the club should be the most essential thing in his life, and he’d burn it all down for you.

Delicate Edges by @wkemeup

Your family’s beloved flower shop was not the only thing you inherited when your parents passed. Trapped under a mountain of debt to the Hydra club, you bear the cost of your father’s desperate bargain. It’s only in moments when the charming Bucky Barnes walks into your shop that you can forget the cruelty of the biker clubs of this town. But a war is brewing. The border is crumbling. You're trapped in the middle. And Bucky will stop at nothing to keep you safe.

For The Best by @metalbuckaroo

Bucky is tired of waiting for you to realize what you're doing. He does the only thing he can think of to break the cycle.

White Horses by @whitewolfbumble

Kicked out of school and exiling yourself in a town time forgot, one little incident lands the sights of the locally infamous Avengers biker gang square on you. Wild horses run faster and there was no chance to turn back now.

Howlin’ For You by @invisibleanonymousmonsters

When Y/N gets an unreal deal on her first home, she wonders why her neighbor scared away all the other buyers. Despite being cautious, she wonders why the town has given Bucky Barnes a bad name.

Brotherhood & Bullets by @rookthorne

The 107th motorcycle club has been the protector of their collective hometown for many, many years - shouldering all the bloodshed and loss that came with it. Little did you know, you'd become the President's own twisted version of an angel on his shoulder; the tips of your angelic wings tinged red by your own demons.

Stars & Stripes, Studs & Spikes by @buckyismybicycle

The crew has always been tight, but you and Bucky are best of friends. When Bucky sees Brock's mark on you, he nearly loses it and wants to end Brock for good. But, there's something more important - keeping you safe.

call me baby by @cherryrogers

Returning to Brooklyn for the summer after a year of travelling from city to city, you hadn’t expected to find your best friend, Peggy Carter, hopelessly in love with a biker, and when she decided to introduce you to the rest of his club, you hadn’t expected to fall for one either — that was until you met one with pretty eyes and a habit of calling you baby.

Masterlist by @angrythingstarlight

Masterlist by @metalbuckaroo

[vaniri]

Dangerous Thing [Minthara Baenre x drow Tav]

Parties in Menzoberranzan can be exhausting. During one of these, Minthara decides to slip away and spend some quality time with her beloved woman.

----- Rating: E Category: F/F Word Count: 3 243 Warnings: sexual content, oral sex, drow women in love

----- As always, big THANK YOU to @ugh-my-back for helping me polish my work 🖤

-----

Minthara never liked parties.

It didn’t really matter which one of Menzoberranzan’s noble houses hosted them, or why they were thrown – it was rarely anything other than a display of host’s wealth and power, an excuse to flaunt their prosperity (sometimes only alleged) and, more importantly, remind the other houses of their position in the City. What really mattered about these parties was how they ended: who managed to raise their status and who got viciously murdered, who learned the darkest secrets and who vanished without a trace. Hardly any party in Menzoberranzan could go without at least one intricate intrigue and some blood spilled. It was a cruel and dangerous game the high society loved to play and despite Minthara being quite proficient in that (she was taught well and by one of the best), she hardly ever enjoyed getting involved in all that mess. It was all so damn exhausting.

Tonight’s evening was pretty peaceful so far though, but Minthara knew that she should never let her guard down. She had learned that the hard way. Polite smiles often hid malicious intentions. Every hand lost from her view, even for a short while, could potentially try to stab her in the back before the end of the night. The game was always on and to lose was to die. And she was a Baenre, daughter of the most ancient and influential house in Menzoberranzan. Life had already taught her that as a significant and illustrious figure she sure was, she should have always expected people to plot against her and target her in their scheming to get power and influence. And that she should always be prepared to fend off their attacks.

Despite her justified suspicion and wariness, she did not stray from getting involved in social activities in order to avoid getting people’s attention. She mingled with the guests, exchanged hollow-hearted pleasantries and forced smiles, joined discussions and shared her thoughts, carefully worded, on their subjects - as someone of her status was expected to do. But something else seemed to occupy her mind, as her eyes were clearly looking for something, or rather someone, searching the crowd for the only face she wanted to see tonight. The only reason Minthara attended all these parties: her beautiful lover, the most perfect woman in the entire Underdark (and probably also the World Above). She had to be there tonight, she would never miss the opportunity to learn the newest rumors and listen about the scandals involving the most notable members of Menzoberranzan’s society. And, most importantly, she would never miss a chance to see Minthara.

She finally saw her, standing among some young girls Minthara didn’t recognize, probably novice priestesses or some less important daughters of not very important mothers. Their eyes met for a brief moment, a hint of playful smile flickered across her face and Minthara already knew she had something wicked in mind. She watched her politely excuse herself and walk towards the ballroom exit, beckoning Minthara to come with her. Minthara followed her without a moment of hesitation, keen to have some respite from all that socializing and pretending, her eyes glued to the captivating figure moving gracefully before her.

Her lover looked stunning that evening. Her long wavy hair, white and lustrous like the finest spidersilk, was tied in a loose low bun, with several small braids adorning her head. Her well-fitted dress, quite revealing but still covering all the parts a decent noble lady should’ve had covered in public, clung to her perfect form, accentuating her beautiful shapes. Its deep red color corresponded wonderfully with her smooth gray skin and her intricate jewelry, made of the finest materials found in the Underdark. She looked like a literal goddess. And even moved like one, climbing the stairs leading to the upper floor of the mansion with such lightness and elegance she seemed to be floating above them.

Minthara was absolutely mesmerized by that sight. They haven’t seen each other for days, whether because of her family duties, or her lover was simply avoiding her on purpose to whet her appetite before the party – Minthara had no idea. But she missed her a lot and seeing her now, so beautiful and irresistible, made Minthara want her more and more with every passing second. She needed to touch her, taste her, feel her squirm under her body and hear her moan her name. She had to remind her who she belonged to.

She couldn’t contain herself any longer. When her lover reached the top of the stairs, she closed in on her with three long strides and pinned her to the nearest wall, her body on hers. She leaned in to steal a kiss, but her woman stopped her with her hand covering Minthara’s lips.

“Patience.” She whispered softly, dragging her finger along Minthara’s lower lip. Her voice was calm, and so was her breath, but her lustful gaze betrayed her desire.

It was very rare for Minthara to not get what she wanted. Usually it was very simple, all she had to do was pull the right strings and just wait. People loved to fawn on her and throw themselves at her feet. They were ready to do anything to please her, hoping to earn her attention and win her favor. But not her beloved. This one was bold enough to defy her, tease her, say no to her demands and make her beg for what she wanted. And that’s what made Minthara so crazy about her.

But she would never let anyone know how much this woman has bewitched her. And certainly she would never make it so obvious in front of her. She had an image to maintain. So despite the overcoming desire to devour her right here and now, Minthara reluctantly pulled away from her, giving her a sign to lead the way, wherever she wanted to take her.

Her lover took her hand and guided her down a dark narrow corridor, humming some cheerful melody under her nose, her excitement palpable. Minthara didn’t interrupt her, enjoying the familiar tune and waiting patiently to see where this whole jaunt would take them in the end. Finally, after what felt like ages, they stopped in front of one of the many doors and her beloved opened them quickly, revealing a relatively small, sparsely decorated but still fancy-looking room with a large bed in its center. She gave Minthara a quick glance, a playful smile tugging at her lips, and, without a warning, she shoved her inside.

Minthara didn’t have time to protest because her lover pushed her against the wall and closed her lips around hers, finally giving in to her desire. Minthara did not resist, she hungrily returned her kiss, aching to feel her whole. As her tongue explored her lover’s mouth, her hands quickly found their way under the fabric of her dress, finally free to roam her entire body.

“I love when you’re so eager you don’t know where to put your hands.” The woman teased between kisses, groping Minthara’s ass and pressing her pelvis hard against hers to feel even more of her. She moaned softly when Minthara’s hands reached her breasts, fingers rubbing her already hard nipples in a slow, circular motion.

“I missed your body so much. I want to touch you everywhere.”

“I missed yours too. I want to see it, in all its glory.”

With Minthara’s hands still occupied with her chest, she unfastened her dress herself and then gave her a gentle but suggestive push, prompting her to do the rest of the work on her own. Minthara begrudgingly took a step back and swiftly slipped her dress off her shoulders, letting it fall on the floor. Her smallclothes joined it right after. She was standing there proudly, completely naked, watching her lover circle her like a starving predator did its delicious prey and take in every inch of her exquisite form. Minthara knew her body was absolutely ravishing, slender but firm, covered in faint freckles and several dark scars, each a proof of her grit and endurance. But seeing what a mere sight of it did to her beloved, how it filled her with fascination, adoration and unadulterated carnal desire, feeling her lustful gaze burn on her skin – it boosted her self-confidence even further.

Without a word, the woman took Minthara’s hand and led her towards the bed. Still fully dressed, she ensconced herself by the headboard and motioned Minthara to join her there. Minthara obediently crawled to her and let her seat her between her legs, back against her chest.

“Let me show you how much I adore you.” Her lover whispered in her ear, peppering it with hot kisses, her arms wrapping around her waist. Minthara purred softly, enjoying the attention her lover's lips were giving to her ear and neck, and the coolness the fabric of her spidersilk dress provided to her heated skin.

Her woman knew all the right spots on Minthara’s body and lavished them evenly with attention and care. She started off safe, with her ears, neck, shoulders and belly, kissing and massaging wherever she could reach, making Minthara melt into her touch. Her palms moved down to her legs, thumbs rubbing her inner thighs, closer and closer to her groin, then left to caress her sides. Every brush of her fingers made Minthara shiver, every touch made her ache for more. Her beloved had her fully at her mercy, exposed and vulnerable, and she was happily using the power she was given. Normally it would have scared Minthara to be like that, to give herself to someone entirely - without fear of getting betrayed. It should have scared her. But not with this woman. She trusted her completely, with her body and soul. And she was certain she was putting herself in good and loving hands.

She let out a quivering sigh when her lover’s palms cupped her breasts, then a loud moan when her fingers focused on her sensitive nipples. She pinched and rubbed them interchangeably, her mouth nibbling her earlobe, and Minthara felt the throbbing heat between her legs grow more intense with every second. Her beloved could have made her come only by fondling her breasts (actually she had done that before, several times, that skilled woman), but that wouldn’t satisfy Minthara tonight. She wanted her hands on her most sensitive parts, she needed her to touch her properly. She rubbed her legs together, trying to give her already dripping pussy some much needed friction, but her lover kept her in place, biting her ear to remind Minthara that she was in charge now.

“Patience.” She reminded her.

Finally, after a long and delicious while of playing with Minthara’s tits, one of her lover’s hands found its way between her legs. Her slender finger slid between her slick folds, rubbing her already swollen clit and Minthara felt her orgasm build up rapidly in her abdomen, every stroke sending waves of bliss throughout her body. She let out a surprised moan when her beloved circled her entrance and slid a finger inside, dragging her juices out and smearing them all over her bud to add more slickness and make her sensations even better. She stroked her clit with short, quick motions, adding more pressure when she wanted to make Minthara wail and reducing the intensity of her ministrations when Minthara was enjoying herself too much. She knew well how to dose her pleasure and how to make her a squirming mess.

Finally, when she decided she was done teasing, her hand picked up the pace, and with the other hand still playing with her already overstimulated nipples, Minthara couldn’t hold back any longer. She came hard, crying out her lover’s name, succumbing to the overwhelming pleasure rushing through her body like a thunderwave. Her cunt throbbed intensely, walls contracting rhythmically around two fingers her beloved slipped in her to finger her through her orgasm.

She held Minthara tight until she came down from her high, stroking her hair and murmuring sweet words of affection in her ear: how much she meant to her, how much she loved to worship her body and hear her cry her name like it’s the only word she knew. And all these terms of endearment that could have them both tortured and maybe even killed, if anyone caught them saying these to each other. My passion. Source of my joy. My one and only. My love.

Hearing all these things, uttered by the woman she adored so much, made Minthara’s heart flutter. She turned around and pressed her lips against her lover’s, eager to show her how much she reciprocated all these feelings. Their kiss was fierce and messy, and Minthara couldn’t resist playfully biting her lower lip as her hands dealt with the skirt of her dress, tossing it aside and revealing her beautiful toned thighs. She made her way down her lover’s body, kissing every exposed part of her  skin until her face buried between her legs, where she tugged her already damp underwear aside and spread her folds, giving herself full access to her dripping core. Minthara planned to tease her a little first, but the scent of her arousal was too enticing and made her want to devour her right here and now. So she pressed the tip of her tongue against her clit, then slid it into her and tasted her arousal, purring contently at the wanton moan her action elicited.

She lapped at her sweet spot, reveling in all these lovely sounds her woman was making. She was always a delight to please, so vocal and responsive, and so direct with her needs. She guided Minthara’s hand to her entrance, prompting her to slip a finger inside and Minthara happily complied, purring contently when her lover ran her fingers through her silky hair. She held her head, keeping her mouth where she wanted it most while Minthara thrust deep into her in a slow steady pace, adding another digit for more stimulation when one felt like nothing in her needy cunt.

Minthara focused her full attention on her clit, sucking and licking the overstimulated bud, feeling it throb against her tongue - an undeniable sign she was close to her release. Her fingers pounded into her dripping hole, picking up the pace as her lover rutted feverishly against her hand, begging her to fuck her harder. She came moments later, with Minthara's name on her lips, her pussy contracting fiercely around her fingers, covering her entire hand with her juices.

Minthara pulled her fingers out and licked them clean, savoring the taste of her lover’s essence, locking her eyes with hers. She looked exceptionally delectable, with her cheeks flushed and those full rosy lips parted. Some strands of her hair had fallen loose from her previously tidy bun, now framing her face and somehow making her even more beautiful. She reached to Minthara, hand still shaking after her intense orgasm, and held her cheek, whispering her name so tenderly and with so much fondness Minthara couldn’t contain emotions that surged through her. The familiar feeling of warmth and elation was swelling somewhere in her chest and she couldn’t even try to pretend she didn’t know what that sensation was anymore.

It was a very dangerous and unwise thing for a drow to develop feelings for another and give themselves to them, fully and genuinely. Especially for one from a house like Baenre. Minthara was usually very cautious and extremely picky when it came to trusting people and letting them closer. Not too close though, as life had already taught her that most of these people wanted to be in her favor for their own personal gain and would turn against her in an instant the moment planting a knife in her turned out more beneficial. She already had several scars to prove that statement. She had to learn how to see through people and read their motives, play them as she wanted, to always be one step ahead of them and their plotting. And never get attached to them. Of course she had made some mistakes, but after learning her lesson all her lovers and so-called friends became nothing more than a temporary entertainment, a moment of fun with no strings attached, and she was ready to get rid of them without batting an eye the moment she noticed their intentions were vile. That's how she managed to survive so long in the treacherous high society of Menzoberranzan.

But her relationship with this woman was different. She was different. Selfless and sincere, from the very beginning. She never asked for anything, other than affection and honesty, and offered the same in return. She’d proven her loyalty to Minthara, more times than she could even recall, and earned her full trust. It started off as an innocuous affair, based on their carnal desires and yearning for connection with someone, even for a short while. But it lasted for years now and Minthara already knew their involvement had long ago turned into something deeper. Meaningful. Dangerous.

Her common sense demanded Minthara to kill that woman the moment she noticed the change. She should have destroyed the object of these feelings and the bond they shared, before it corrupted her mind and ruined her completely. But one look in her lover’s warm eyes was enough to make Minthara realize that she was already beyond the point of saving. And it didn’t scare her, as she had already come to terms with her own feelings and accepted her weakness in full.

Love like this was a rare thing in the Underdark. It should have been cherished, not fought.

“Hey, where are you?”

“Hm?” Minthara snapped out of her musing. Her love was visibly amused, watching her with curiosity in her eyes.

“You were lost in your thoughts. What were you thinking about?”

“You, of course.” She gave her lover’s crotch a quick peck and put her underwear back in place.

“No need to think about me, I’m already here.”

Minthara crawled back to her and snuggled up against her chest as her beloved pulled her into a loving embrace. She found comfort in her smell, relaxing completely while listening to her heartbeat, strong and steady, enjoying her hand tenderly stroking her head.

“Stay with me here. I don’t want to go back to the party.” Minthara purred, content with her current position and reluctant to change it.

“They’ve probably noticed our disappearance already.”

“Good, they may be noticing it for a bit longer.”

Her lover chuckled lightly, then her expression suddenly sobered.

“Your mother-“

“Knows I came here for you and you alone.” Minthara cut her off. “She has more pressing matters to attend to today than tailing me and making sure I behave, trust me.”

“I do trust you, Alurlssrin.” That word always made Minthara’s chest swell with warmth, so many emotions rushing through her mind. An undeniable proof that her lover felt the same. “But please, don’t complain to her later that you missed the entire party because I kept you in bed all night and didn’t let you go. She didn’t believe you last time and she won’t believe you now.”

It was Minthara's turn to chuckle, until her lover pressed her lips against hers to finally silence her.

She would never dare complain about that.

[lily-alphonse]

Rarepairs mentioned - I HAD to ask for my beloved Abigail x Maru 🖤

I feel like these lesbians could pursue world domination if they wanted. Good thing we have video games and anime to distract them with.

RIP Abigail you would've loved Baldur's Gate 3

Genuinely they would get along so well? Like.. really straightforward friends to lovers. Maybe not even technically lovers because one of them is AroAce and they just have a lovely queerplatonic thing going on.

SOME AO3 RESEARCH LATER (because I don't know what to do with this)

Okay actually yeah they need a cool AU. A Scooby-Doo AU, murder mystery AU, zombie AU, fantasy AU, something where they have to put their minds and muscle together, that's where they would shine. WHAT ABOUT A SPY AU AAAHHH

Sorry I'm about to just get crazy with this one I know you won't mind Crispy

It's too perfect! Maru is like the Q, the gadgets, the control center, the medic, etc. But its a two-woman vigilante operation and they have like a will-they-wont-they thing throughout their missions. Maru is always worried about losing Abigail when she puts herself in danger.

AND THEN AASJDFNWEFPIU AND THEN OMG WAIT IM GETTING TOO EXFCITED

AND THEN MARU GETS TAKENNNNN!!!!!

AND ABIGAIL GOES ON A RAMPAGE JOHN WICK STYLE AAAAAAAHHHH

Lmao I feel like this post is the most authentic look into my process as a writer it's just all out there in this post rn.

And then when she finally saves her and she's covered in blood (some of it hers) she makes some inside joke and they both laugh and cry and Abigail finally admits that she doesn't know what she'd do without her and loves her so much and Maru just smiles past the tears and says

"I know"

roll credits

Send me any Stardew Valley rarepair and I will tell you how I would make them work! (Even non-marriage npcs) If youre lucky you may get a mini fic out of it. Check the list below to see if Ive already answered yours

Rarepair Masterlist

[everygame]

"One of the finest of his generation of critics"—Kieron Gillen (Die, The Wicked + The Divine) Fifty-two essays composing the very best of veteran video game developer and writer Mathew Kumar's "Every Game I've Finished" project, published for the first time in print with commentary from the author. Releasing October 21st, 2024 in print, and available for pre-order now for Kindle or as epub/pdf. Games covered include legendary icons (Wizardry: Proving Grounds Of The Mad Overlord), indie darlings (Papers, Please), beloved obscurities (Attack of the Friday Monsters!), Triple-A franchises (Mass Effect) and modern classics (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild). Essays take the form of everything from straight critique to strategy guide, and represent an overview of the state of the art in video games across its history distilled into ten years of highs and lows. A book that takes video games as seriously as any art form and as deserving of collected criticism. “Mathew’s project, to finish the games he plays, and to write about those he finishes, can be simply stated but it represents a noble act of critical commitment. When taken in concert, these reviews –– unflinchingly acerbic, truthfully stated, and deeply unconcerned with external factors of fashion or consensus –– provide both a diary of criticism, and a long view of the judders and lunges of this still-evolving medium; A charter, too, for what we might cherish, and what we might disdain, in this emergent art form.”–Simon Parkin (A Game of Birds and Wolves, Death By Video Game)

---

Phew! When I announced exp. 2601 I mentioned it was the ten year anniversary of Every Game I've Finished in 2024 and that it might be important, and here it is, a celebration of my last ten years of writing that you can buy as a book that you can own in your house. I didn't originally plan it this way! I intended to release Every Game I've Finished 14>24 as a (somewhat) quick and dirty ebook release, and I did the majority of the work at the beginning of the year pre-exp. 2601, but after realising it would only take a "little" more work to self-publish the book physically I decided if I was going to vanity press, I might as well do it for real.

Of course, it's taken a lot longer than I expected, but I finally have a proof in my hand that I'm satisfied with, and it really does look very nice. 

Vanity press or not, there are a few vectors to this release. Firstly, if you've ever enjoyed any of my writing of the past ten years, here's a nice way to support me and either get a lovely physical or handy digital edition. Secondly, if you haven't, here's a way to immediately get fifty-two of the best articles I've written which you can peruse at your leisure.

Thirdly, I just honestly think that there should be a culture of criticism around games just as there is for literally every other art form, and I think that this book existing makes as much sense as, say Clive James On Television, so I'm just fucking going for it.

That all said, Every Game I've Finished 14>24 is being released on October 21st 2024, and is being released in print on Amazon. I'm no happier about this than you are, but it's the simplest method. I would love to offer copies here on Ko‑fi for launch day, but they (sneakily) give author copies a long lead time and (of course) it's impossible to compete with Amazon's postage rates.

Amazon also--for bafflingly unclear reasons--won't allow me to offer a pre-order of the print edition, so please mark the date in your calendar or follow me on Bluesky or (spit) Twitter if you want to get a copy.

However! If you're just looking for the ebook, you can pre-order it on Kindle or epub/pdf right now! Subscribers will receive their shop discount on the digital edition, so don't forget you can support me for just $1 a month. This release has been, and I know it's a cliche, a real labour of love, just as Every Game I've Finished has been a labour of love for video games (even if it doesn't always read like it.) I can't wait for you to get your hands on it, and I'm so thankful for all of you who have joined me on this journey.

[veronicaleighauthor]

My Favorite Reads of 2024

I still can’t believe 2024 is over. When I was growing up my parents and grandparents used to say that time went by too fast. Boy, they were right. I did a huge amount of reading last year – I reread many of my old favorites and according to Goodreads I read new thirty books. Don’t worry, I’m not going to ramble about all thirty of the new books I read. I’m just going to ramble about the top three.

The first one I really fell in love with was “A Long Fatal Love Chase,” by Louisa May Alcott. Yes, the same Louisa May Alcott who wrote the beloved “Little Women.” Before she was writing “moral pap for the young” as she called it, Alcott wrote “blood and thunder” tales to earn money under a variety of pseudonyms. Encouraged by an editor to write a potboiler to serialize, Louisa wrote “A Long Fatal Love Chase.” Rosamond Vivan, eager to escape her life and have an adventure, elopes with the Byronic Phillip Tempest. He’s no saint, but she naively believes her love will save him. She soon learns he’s married to another, has a child, and that he is truly wicked. Rosamond escapes and spends evading his controlling, abusive clutches. Wherever she turns, there he is. The editor ended up rejecting the book and Alcott couldn’t find a market anywhere for it. “A Long Fatal Love Chase” was put away and forgotten about until the 1990s, when it was rediscovered, sold to Random House and striking a chord with modern readers, it hit the best seller lists. The whole book is ahead of its time. It’s my second favorite of Alcott’s canon, and was my favorite read of the whole year. I’m waiting for an adaptation – it needs to be adapted. ::hint, hint Masterpiece Theater::

The second book I fell in love with was “The Story of My Life” by Helen Keller. A short read, we’re introduced to the author through a series of anecdotes that covers the events of “The Miracle Worker” and lesser-known events of Keller’s life. Though born later than Laura Ingalls Wilder, I got a lot of “Little House” feels from her writing style. First published in Ladies’ Home Journal, it was dedicated to Alexander Graham Bell, who happened to be one of her teachers. It’s a quick read and I was swept away when I read it. There was just so much that I didn’t know about Helen Keller and her life. Yet another book I didn’t want to end.

The third book I fell in love with was “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” by Suzanne Collins which is a prequel to “The Hunger Games.” I was introduced to it by my sister when we watched the movie based on it and I finally broke down and read the whole series last autumn. The main series is good, but I really liked reading Coriolanus Snow’s villain origin story. Most of the novels I read feature good, moral protagonists and how they do something extraordinary to make the world a better place. Coriolanus straddles the good/evil line until he just nose dives right into the dark side towards the end of the book. I hated when it ended, I wanted more. Fingers crossed that Suzanne Collins writes another book with Snow as the protagonist!

What were your favorite books of 2024? What are you looking forward to reading in 2025?

[four-loose-screws]

FE6 Novelization Translation: Front Cover & Introductory Pages

If you would like to start from the beginning, read a missed part, etc., click here!

FE Game Script Translations - FE Novel Translations - Original FE Support Conversations

If you are interested in donating to support my work, please check out my Ko-fi here. Thank you!

———————————

This book is considered #3 in a 3 book set including FE7, so the chapter numbers will be 'Chapter 14' and onward. The first 13 chapters are FE7's 2 books.

Covers

Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade ~ The Binding Blade

Turmoil in Elibe

Book 3

By Masaka Kazuyoshi

Illustrated by Kaneda Eiji

Published by Square Enix

Twenty years after Eliwood, Hector, and Lyn’s journey to save their country ended…

Disaster is once again about to visit the continent of Elibe.

Its fate is in the hands of Eliwood’s son Roy, and Hector’s daughter Lilina.

The tale begins yet again of a set of heroes who take up the current generation’s fight! 

In this final book telling the story of Elibe in turmoil!

Color Art

Title Page

Fire Emblem

From “The Blazing Blade” to “The Binding Blade”

Turmoil in Elibe

Book 3

Table of Contents

Part 2: The Binding Blade

Chapter 14: Dawn of Destiny

Chapter 15: The Rebellion of Ostia

Chapter 16: The True Enemy

Chapter 17: Retaking the Capital

Chapter 18: The Binding Blade

Final Chapter: Beyond the Darkness

Continent of Elibe

Character Introductions

Fire Emblem

The Blazing Sword ~ The Binding Blade     Book 3

Characters

Roy

[Lycian League・Son of Marquess Pherae]

Main character of the second half of this story. He returns home from his studies in Ostia to participate in the Lycian army in place of his sick father.

Eliwood

[Lycian League・Marquess Pharae]

Roy’s father and the main character of the second part of the first half of this story. Because of his illness, he is currently unable to fight at full strength.

Marcus

[Lycian League・Holy Knight in Service to House Pherae]

Roy’s instructor and a leading knight of House Pherae. Though he is getting on in his years, he serves tirelessly as the general of the Knights of Pherae.

Alen

[Lycian League・Cavalier in Service to House Pherae]

A knight from a distinguished family that has served house Pherae for generations. He is daring and honest.

Lance

[Lycian League・Cavalier in Service to House Pherae]

He is around the same age as his ally Alen, and the two are best friends. They are also equally matched in combat together.

Wolt

[Lycian League・Archer in Service to House Pherae]

Son of Roy’s wet nurse Rebecca (she appeared in part 1 of this story). Though they were raised together like brothers, he does not take advantage of his position, serving as a faithful servant to Roy.

Lilina

[Lycian League・Daughter of Marquess Ostia]

Beloved daughter of Marquess Hector. Roy’s childhood friend. She is cheerful, enjoys helping others, and has a natural talent in magic.

Hector

[Lycian League・Marquess Ostia]

Lilina’s father. Secondary main character of the first half of this story. As the marquess of Lycia’s leading territory, he leads the Lycian army into battle against Bern.

Bors

[Lycian League・Armor Knight in Service to House Ostia]

An exceptionally polite and kind person, even amongst the Knights of Ostia. He serves as Lady Lilina’s personal guard.

Merlinus

[Lycian League・Commander of the Supply Convoy Unit]

A government official who has served House Pherae since Eliwood became marquess. He leads the supply convoy unit, and guards the rear line.

Guinivere

[The Kingdom of Bern・Princess]

Younger half-sister of King Zephiel of Bern. To bring an end to her brother’s wicked ambitions, she flees alone to Lycia.

Elen

[The Kingdom of Bern・Guinivere’s Attendant]

A cleric of St. Elimine’s Church. She is entirely devoted to serving Guinivere.

Milady

[The Kingdom of Bern・Commander of Guinivere’s Personal Guard]

A female wyvern rider who has sworn her loyalty to Guinivere. After Guinivere suddenly goes missing, she works tirelessly to find her.

Dieck

[Mercenary Swordfighter]

A skilled mercenary with countless scars all over his body. He leads a small mercenary group. At Eliwood’s order, he lends his strength to Roy and his allies.

Shanna

[Knights of Ilia・Mercenary Trainee]

A cheerful girl training as a member of Dieck’s mercenaries to become a full-fledged pegasus knight.

Chad

[Lycian League・Orphan Thief]

The caretaker who raised him in an orphanage was killed by Bern. He becomes a member of the Lycian army to take his revenge.

Lugh

[Lycian League・Orphan Mage]

From the same orphanage as Chad. After his caretaker’s passing, he took the other children of the orphanage to Araphen to entrust them to a church of St. Elimine.

Rutger

[Sacae Plains・Mercenary Swordfighter]

After his home city of Bulgar was destroyed by Bern, he swore that he would take revenge. He is serving Marquess Laus of Lycia as a mercenary.

Clarine

[The Kingdom of Etruria・Daughter of Count Reglay]

Daughter of Count Pent of Reglay, an Etrurian noble house. She is selfish, believing that the world revolves around her and her brother.

Saul

[St. Elimine Church・Priest]

His church bestowed upon him the duty of locating the Fire Emblem. He has an aloof and easygoing personality, but also loves to flirt with women.

Dorothy

[St. Elimine Church・Archer]

Travels with Saul as his assigned guard. She has a serious and plain personality, and Saul is never far from her side.

Sue

[Sacae Plains・Nomad of the Kutolah Tribe]

Granddaughter of the chief of the Kutolah Tribe. Her tribe became scattered when Bern invaded. She is being held captive in Thria, one of Lycia’s territories.

Zelot

[Knights of Ilia・Commander of the Edessa Mercenaries]

A paladin who refuses to break his mercenary contract even after his employer’s passing, and continues to fight to save his daughter, Lilina.

Trec

[Knights of Ilia・Cavalier of the Edessa Mercenaries]

A member of Zelot’s mercenary group. He has a very laid back disposition, and often falls asleep on the battlefield.

Noah

[Knights of Ilia・Cavalier of the Edessa Mercenaries]

A member of Zelot’s mercenary group. He has a gentle face and personality, but also knows much about the true nature of the world, perhaps because of his line of work as a mercenary.

Fir

[Sacae Plains・Female Swordfighter]

On a journey traveling around each country, training to improve her swordsmanship. She meets Noah while testing her abilities at the coliseum in Ostia.

Larum

[?・Dancer of the Resistance]

A girl who gathers intelligence for the Resistance. After being kidnapped, she is saved by Roy and his army.

Echidna

[The Western Isles・Leader of the Resistance]

A powerful hero cares deeply for others. She leads the ragtag members of the Resistance, fighting against the Etrurian nobles who unjustly abuse their positions time and time again.

Elffin

[Strategist of the Resistance]

A figure wrapped in mystery, with grace and intelligence not at all befitting of a bard.

Bartre

[The Western Isles・Wandering Axe Fighter]

He knows of the Western Isle’s current tragic situation, and out of the kindness of his naturally chivalrous heart, joins the Resistance. He is searching for his beloved daughter, currently traveling to train her combat abilities.

Klein

[The Kingdom of Etruria・Son of Count Reglay]

Deployed as the Etrurian general stationed in the Western Isles. He was ordered by his superiors to subjugate Roy’s army, but he has doubts about the nature of doing so.

Thea

[Knights of Elia・Commander of a Pegasus Knight Mercenary Group]

A talented pegasus knight employed by Klein. Unlike her younger sister Shanna, she is serious and quick to worry about things.

Raigh

[Lycian Alliance・Orphan Dark Mage]

Lugh’s younger twin brother, who left on a journey to study ancient magic before Bern’s invasion. He is curious about the existence of dragons.

Fae

[Nabata Desert・Girl Living in the Hidden Village]

A young dragon girl who snuck out of her village, and follows around Roy’s army.

Cecilia

[The Kingdom of Etruria・Mage General]

One of Etruria’s three generals. She was once stationed in Ostia, and is an old acquaintance of Roy’s. 

Perceval

[The Kingdom of Etruria・Knight General]

One of Etruria’s three generals. He has vowed his unshakable loyalty to the late prince.

Douglas

[The Kingdom of Etruria・Great General]

One of Etruria’s three generals. He fights to protect the king, ready to give his life for that duty if he must.

Zeiss

[The Kingdom of Bern・Wyvern Rider]

Milady’s younger brother. Stationed in Bern’s Western Army, commanded by Narcian.

Yoder

[St. Elimine’s Church・Bishop]

Ordered Saul and Dorothy to search for the Emblem, while he searches to discover what is true and what is false about Bern’s resurrection of dragons.

Niime

[Ilia・Renowned Master of Ancient Magic]

Known as the “Hermit on the Mountain.” Is deeply knowledgeable, even about dragons.

Juno

[Knights of Ilia・Wife of the Lord of Castle Edessa]

A Falcon Knight serving her husband Zelot’s position while he is away. She is also Thea and Shanna’s biological oldest sister.

Zephiel

[The Kingdom of Bern・King]

King of the militaristic country of Bern. Suddenly begins an invasion of Sacae and Ilia. Engulfs the previously stable continent of Elibe in a vortex of chaos.

Idunn

[The Kingdom of Bern・Dark Priestess]

A quiet young woman always by Zephiel’s side, serving him as if she was his own shadow.

Murdock

[The Kingdom of Bern・Leader of the Three Wyvern Generals]

Ordered to conquer Ilia as the commanding officer of Bern’s northern army. He has guarded Zephiel since his youth, and is his loyal servant who obeys his every command. (see book 2).

Narcian

[The Kingdom of Bern・Member of the Three Wyvern Generals]

A wyvern lord who invades Lycia as commanding officer of Bern’s southern army. A narcissist with a cruel and merciless personality.

Brunnya

[The Kingdom of Bern・Member of the Three Wyvern Generals]

A sage stationed in Sacae as commanding officer of Bern’s western army. Her heart is wavering in regards to following Zephiel’s wishes.

Galle

[The Kingdom of Bern・Wyvern Lord Assigned to the Palace]

A powerful soldier who serves as Murdock’s loyal retainer. Though he is originally from another country, his loyalty to Bern is strong. Milady’s beloved.

Arcard

[The Kingdom of Etruria・Governor Over the Troops Stationed in the Western Isles]

Abuses his position to force the pioneers of the Western Isles to work in the mines as slaves to line his own pockets.

Roartz

[The Kingdom of Etruria・High Chancellor]

A high noble who earns the title of next in line for the throne after the crown prince’s passing. Rumor has it that he is colluding with Bern.

Part 2

The Binding Blade

[black-arcana]

HIM Announces Career-Spanning Anthology 'When Love And Death Embrace - The Best Of HIM 1997-2003'

BMG has announced the upcoming release of "When Love and Death Embrace - The Best of HIM 1997-2003", a comprehensive anthology celebrating the early years of the legendary Finnish rock band HIM. Set to hit stores on October 25, 2024, this collection brings together the most beloved tracks from the band's first four studio albums, offering fans a nostalgic journey through HIM's groundbreaking career.

HIM, recognized worldwide for its distinctive blend of sentimental lyrics and hard-hitting rock and its iconic Heartagram symbol, has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. With over 10 million albums sold worldwide, HIM stands as one of Finland's most commercially successful musical exports and remains the first Finnish group to receive a gold record in the United States.

"When Love And Death Embrace" features 16 tracks that defined HIM's sound and propelled them to international stardom. From their debut album "Greatest Lovesongs Vol. 666" (1997) to the acclaimed "Love Metal" (2003),this compilation includes fan favorites such as "Right Here In My Arms", "Join Me In Death" and "The Funeral Of Hearts". The album also showcases HIM's memorable covers of Chris Isaak's "Wicked Game" and BLUE ÖYSTER CULT's "(Don't Fear) The Reaper".

"When Love And Death Embrace - The Best Of HIM 1997-2003" track listing: 01. Right Here In My Arms 02. The Funeral Of Hearts 03. Your Sweet Six Six Six 04. Heartache Every Moment 05. Buried Alive By Love. 06. Wicked Game. 07. Join Me In Death 08. In Joy And Sorrow 09. Soul On Fire 10. Pretending 11. Gone With The Sin 12. (Don't Fear) The Reaper 13. Poison Girl. 14. Close To The Flame. 15. The Sakrament 16. When Love And Death Embrace

The anthology will be available in three formats: a standard CD album featuring a wallet with spot gloss and embossing, a limited-edition 2LP set pressed on 140g white vinyl with a spot gloss jacket and embossing, and digital. Both physical formats are sure to be coveted by collectors and fans alike.

Despite disbanding in 2017, HIM's music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Ville Valo's ongoing solo career, in which he performs as VV, often features HIM classics in live performances, keeping the spirit of the band alive for devoted followers.

"When Love And Death Embrace - The Best Of HIM 1997-2003" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to HIM's enduring legacy in the world of rock music. This anthology is a must-have for long-time fans and newcomers alike.

[bookwormchocaholic]

Fave books of the year?

Hello, thanks for sending this in. I had a lot of favorites this year, but I'm going to only ramble about three.

The first one I really fell in love with was “A Long Fatal Love Chase,” by Louisa May Alcott. Yes, the same Louisa May Alcott who wrote the beloved “Little Women.” Before she was writing “moral pap for the young” as she called it, Alcott wrote “blood and thunder” tales to earn money under a variety of pseudonyms. Encouraged by an editor to write a potboiler to serialize, Louisa wrote “A Long Fatal Love Chase.” Rosamond Vivan, eager to escape her life and have an adventure, elopes with the Byronic Phillip Tempest. He’s no saint, but she naively believes her love will save him. She soon learns he’s married to another, has a child, and that he is truly wicked. Rosamond escapes and spends evading his controlling, abusive clutches. Wherever she turns, there he is. The editor ended up rejecting the book and Alcott couldn’t find a market anywhere for it. “A Long Fatal Love Chase” was put away and forgotten about until the 1990s, when it was rediscovered, sold to Random House and striking a chord with modern readers, it hit the best seller lists. The whole book is ahead of its time. It’s my second favorite of Alcott’s canon, and was my favorite read of the whole year. I’m waiting for an adaptation – it needs to be adapted. ::hint, hint Masterpiece Theater::

The second book I fell in love with was “The Story of My Life” by Helen Keller. A short read, we’re introduced to the author through a series of anecdotes that covers the events of “The Miracle Worker” and lesser-known events of Keller’s life. Though born later than Laura Ingalls Wilder, I got a lot of “Little House” feels from her writing style. First published in Ladies’ Home Journal, it was dedicated to Alexander Graham Bell, who happened to be one of her teachers. It’s a quick read and I was swept away when I read it. There was just so much that I didn’t know about Helen Keller and her life. Yet another book I didn’t want to end.

The third book I fell in love with was “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” by Suzanne Collins which is a prequel to “The Hunger Games.” I was introduced to it by my sister when we watched the movie based on it and I finally broke down and read the whole series last autumn. The main series is good, but I really liked reading Coriolanus Snow’s villain origin story. Most of the novels I read feature good, moral protagonists and how they do something extraordinary to make the world a better place. Coriolanus straddles the good/evil line until he just nose dives right into the dark side towards the end of the book. I hated when it ended, I wanted more. Fingers crossed that Suzanne Collins writes another book with Snow as the protagonist!

[tavyliasin]

Part 1 of Haarlep's Festive Party is now out!

The rest will follow in the next day or so, it's a fight to finish it because it grew so long, but I do hope you enjoy the appetiser~

Mind the tags, I have my usual beloved tropes of Haarlep's aphrodisiac shenanigans, bondage, power play, a little pain play, some devilishly delightful toys and new outfits, oh and this time? Gale is joining the party!

Smut below the cut with some samples, the full work for now is only on AO3 but I shall see about posting it here in chapters when it is completed too~ Happy holidays darlings, in whatever ways you do or do not celebrate~

-------- -------- The Fiend's Feast -------- --------

“Are you nearly ready to go?” Tav’s voice called through the thin fabric of Gale’s tent as he fussed over his outfit. “I still need a few minutes… Look, you all go on ahead without me, I can soon catch up.” He looked in the mirror again and shook his head. He felt ridiculous, and not at all prepared, but he was not going to miss another party. “I will be there, I promise you that.” Outside the tent, Tav shrugged, looking to her companions. “I feel ridiculous.” Astarion complained, lifting the hems of his revealing outfit. “I don’t know how I let the pair of you talk me into this, again. ”

Beside him, Halsin merely grinned, a firm slap to the rear causing the pale elf to leap from the floor in shock with a loud jingling of bells. “I think you look perfect, my heart. I fear it is my dignity taking the hit now.” “Hold still.” Tav stood on her tiptoes to reach up to Halsin as he bent just slightly for her, letting her adjust the large antlers fixed to his head before kissing his red-painted nose. “There. Much better.” The druid smiled, unable to hide his feelings whenever Tav lavished gentle affection towards him, even as Astarion huffed with exaggerated jealousy. “It would be much easier were I to be permitted use of my wild shape.” “That would be cheating.” Karlach gave him a gentle elbow in the ribs, her horn decorated with extra branches and shiny baubles. “We’re going to be late if we stand around talking here all night.” Wyll appeared beside her, linking arms, similar festive items adorning his own curved horns, ribbons sewn carefully through his hair. “Shall we?”

Lae’zel and Shadowheart were already walking on ahead, having some kind of heated argument that Tav and the others couldn’t hear. Karlach watched them with concern. “Maybe we should keep a closer eye on them, before someone gets hurt.” “Oh I think that is their plan, but I wouldn’t worry about anything permanent .” Astarion smirked, as he watched the realisation dawn on the tiefling’s face. 

“Well, let’s not keep the host waiting any longer. I’m curious what all this is about, anyway.” Tav smiled, entwining her fingers with those of her lovers either side of her. The memory of Haarlep’s last party was still fresh in her mind, and her body, and she couldn’t wait to find out what the rest of the night might have in store for them all. ----

“I hate you. You know that?” Raphael sneered, even as he allowed Haarlep to continue as they pleased, covering his wings with white feathers. Well, allowed was perhaps not the most accurate word as he was once more bound - quite literally - by their latest scheme. “Yes, yes, hellfire, brimstone, flay the flesh from my bones. I was hoping you might play the part a little better, Archdu- ” They paused halfway through his title, a far more wicked grin crossing their features. “ Archangel .” They finished on the last row of feathers, checking how firm the golden ropes and vicious daggers pinning his wings spread and open against the metal support were, ensuring he wouldn’t bother struggling. They floated back on a current of magic to properly admire their work, checking the book they summoned to their hand to ensure that everything was just right. Raphael was in his cambion form already, horns painted with gold with a large ornate ring suspended on fine thread between them as a glittering halo. He was dressed in a pure white robe that stopped midway down his thigh. Half of his chest was equally exposed, and his hands were bound with a thin but impressively strong golden rope in a mockery of prayer. A liberal application of golden glitter made his entire form appear to sparkle amidst the twinkling lights as he was held aloft at the top of an unreasonably large evergreen tree. Decorated soul coins hung from ribbons in the higher branches, out of reach of where most of the guests would be in the expansive hall below. The rest of the tree bore a variety of garish baubles, patterns of magical fire and dancing light cantrips being constantly cast by debtors hidden beneath the base, barely able to see from the ribbon-tied boxes they were secured inside, under strict orders not to let the decorations flicker or fade for even a moment. “Now, all you need do is sing .” Haarlep made a swift motion with their hand, their lovely little item buried deep inside Raphael suddenly coming to life and drawing out a prolonged whine from his lips. “Hmmm…you can do better.” Another motion sent the short mild shock of lightning through the pins piercing specific points up the cambion’s back, including several in the most sensitive points just above his tail and at the point his wings joined near his shoulders. This time, the noise from him hit a higher pitch. “Much better.” Haarlep smirked with satisfaction at the disappointed sigh as they left him without any stimulation again, only the feeling of what was there, the pained anticipation of never knowing when they’d next activate their little toys. “Now, you be nice up there, and you might just get your present later~” Their wings stretched in a lazy mimicry of flying as the magic carried them back to the floor. They noted the perfect view, if a guest were to stand in just the right spot beneath the tree, they would see everything . “Here. Hang that silly plant right here.” He motioned to one of the debtors who was helping decorate the hall, stringing the mistletoe on a fine thread they conjured from the high ceiling above. ---

--- Some time later

--- --- “Oh, right, mine’s last then.” She nervously teased the bow open, the paper falling away to reveal two items. The first was a dark flask, the glass itself looking like warm flames were moving within it, a thicker liquid swirling inside. “Do be careful with that now, Little Rat, do not get greedy . Just a drop or two in a drink should be more than potent enough, when you aren’t able to take it from the source.” At those words, they leaned in close tilting her chin up with a single claw and kissing her deeply, a sweeter passion to it, she might have been forgiven for thinking there was just a touch of genuine emotion. “Now, why don’t you look at the other half of your gift.” Their hand drifted down her arm, lifting her wrist as she still held the silk bag by the drawstrings. She passed the bottle of what was now rather obviously distilled aphrodisiac from the incubus themselves over to Halsin to hold for a moment as she began to pull the object from within the fabric. “This is…well, I assume it’s similar to other items you have?” “Not precisely.” They ran their own finger up the length of the decidedly phallic object, coloured deep red with familiar ridges along it. “Right now, it bears Raphael’s likeness , as you can tell. However, you can have it take the form of others, should you wish. All you need do is make a little deal with them - similar to my own, but far simpler. Just use it and kiss them while it is inside you, speaking their name whilst holding it will then transform it into their form.” “What’s the catch?” She eyed them suspiciously as they continued to caress the toy, squeezing at the tip for good measure. “When it’s in their shape, saying their name again while holding it will allow them to feel everything you do with it, much like you feel it if I take your form.” They grinned and dug a sharp nail just below the tip, and Tav once again heard that sound from above. “That…” She began, holding the toy in her hand as she had an idea form. “Haarlep.” She said once, watching the fiend’s eyes widen for a moment as they toy changed in size and shape, the hue changing to a dark tan. “So you did attune it to yourself when you made it, you cheeky devil~” Astarion winked at the incubus, watching the subtle changes in their face. “Haarlep.” Tav repeated, looking them in the eye as she took the item in her hand and began to run her own fingers up and down the length. “It is you…but not the one we know.” The incubus touched the toy quickly. “Raphael.” They uttered, in a hushed tone. “Do not think on that too much, Little Thief, some things even you should not steal.” They put the toy back in the silk bag for her, tying the string. “Something for later , you will have little need of it tonight.” ---

[spinningbuster98]

Anyone up for some monkey business?

So what’s the story for this one? (Assuming you haven’t played one of the most beloved games on the SNES). Well Donkey Kong and his other Kong friends are all chilling on DK Island when suddenly the big ape’s bananas are all stolen by humanoid crocodiles called the Kremlings, ruled by the batshit crazy but fucking tenacious King K Rool. Why did he steal the bananas instead of, I dunno, try to kill the Kongs in their sleep or something? He’s an asshole that’s why and so now he needs to receive a brutal beating by getting stomped on the head a bunch of times

So DKC is a fairly standard platformer, taking most of the basics set by Mario, complete with having a run button: unique to these games is the ability to roll, which you can use to knock enemies away. You speed up with each consecutive enemy you defeat by rolling so be careful for bottomless pits and other obstacles. If you roll off the edge of a platform you can then perform a longer jump. It’s not really needed in this game save for some extra stuff but by the next one you’ll have to drill it into your playstyle

You can pick up barrels and throw them at enemies of course

You can switch between the two characters, Donkey and Diddy Kong, at any time, the character you’re not using will follow you but will be like a ghost of sorts: he won’t take damage but also won’t hit enemies

Tip #1 for this game: always use Diddy, never Donkey. Not because the latter is bad but because the former is just superior: he’s faster, has a higher jump, a smaller hitbox, a faster roll and can throw barrels faster. Moreover he carries barrels in front of himself rather than over his head like Donkey does, this is important because if that barrel collides with an enemy as you’re carrying it the enemy will take damage, making Diddy’s way of carrying barrels basically a shield ability

Diddy’s only downside is that there are like 3 enemies he can’t defeat by jumping on them, so in those rare cases Donkey’s better…but that’s it

And spoilers but it won’t get better for the “thrilla gorilla”, ‘cause he’s not even playable in the next two games and he spends his time getting kidnapped. Jeez I thought X got shafted pretty hard in his own series, my man DK had to wait ‘till DK Returns in 2010 to finally shine (even though at the expense of the other characters…)

As for the other Kongs you meet in the overworld:

Cranky is a crotchety old bastard, usually telling you that you suck when compared to him and whining about how much better games used to be in his days. On occasion he might give you some tips on how to find some secrets but they’re usually very cryptic

Funky is a cool dude, letting you borrow his bodacious flying vehicle to warp to any area of the island that you want. An’ that’s just wicked man! Very mondo!

Finally there’s (Eye)Candy Kong, who saves your game

I’ll be completing this game 101% but I’ll cover the details of what this entails next time, for now just enjoy the incredible music and amazing spritework. yeah ok maybe some character sprites haven’t aged the best due to the whole wanting to look 3D even though they’re really 2D thing, but the actual backgrounds look stunning and are rich with details

[yurigalactica]

okay I saw the assume ask game, so I assume you were a theater kid at some point. You just have theater kid energy in the best way possible. The drama of your blog, your writing, the way you talk, idk it all just screams theater kid. I also imagine that you probably sew patches over ripped clothes. I feel like ypu would do that.

you would be correct for both of those!! i used to be in a youth theater troupe in my community for several years and i did several plays with them, like The Little Mermaid Jr, Frozen Jr, Matilda Jr (they were all Jr because everyone was a little kid and we couldn’t handle multiple act shows yet lol). plus i had a massive newsies phase as a kid (davey my beloved) and i got obsessed with wicked after my parents took me to see it (ELPHABA MY BELOVEDDDDDDED). i also recently saw Les Mis a few months ago (FANTINE’S SONG IS LITERALLY A MASTERPIECE OH MY STARS. CHILLS.) and of course hamilton, i don’t think that one needs elaboration.

and as for the patches, i do indeed have a denim jacket decorated with patches! it’s a fairly new endeavor of mine and i need to get some supplies to fix some of the patches that have started to come off, but i’m really excited for the day it’s covered in stuff that represents me! :D

[k-6196]

Just an idea [Which I will write, the intro is already done ^^]

but what if there was slight crossover between the concept behind the mazes and wicked from The Maze Runner but put into a different context of it being a corporation who accidentally made a bad virus in an underground area and to find a cure they kidnapped kids and forced them to go through trials [like the The Maze]. TF 141 comes in because maybe a terrorist they’ve been tracking has ties to this corporation which eventually leads to TF 141 finding out about The Maze.

Just saying this is gonna be a long, long idea so brace urself a bit if you actually want to read it.

How do they find out? They go to the underground area thinking they can grab intel on the terrorist but instead they find out about the maze through a meeting being held.

Cue Price trying to get Laswell to help but because of how powerful and influential the corporation is her hands are tied so they have to go dark to even do anything.

Cue Gaz and Soap or some other pair from TF 141 trying to sneak into the Maze and accidentally getting trapped. Does the corporation find out? Who knows honestly. I can see it going 2 ways:

1. Corporation gave up on the kids in the maze so the kids inside are basically left to fend for themselves while the corporation finds ways to make use of them. Due to their negligence Gaz and Soap can be kept relatively hidden from them and baam you have ur escaping and angst and death and trauma and main character [it has to be a teen female lead with parental issues and bordering morally grey, why? because im projecting] helping the two to get everyone out

2. Corporation is well aware that Gaz and Soap are there so they do everything in their power to start killing the kids. And because it is a corporation they decide to not use their expensive equipment and just let the infected people and monsters loose on the kids, Gaz and Soap. Cue them fighting for their lives to get out the maze.

Also, to accompany both Price and Ghost have no fucking clue whats going on in the Maze and can’t risk contacting Gaz or Soap because if the Corporation finds out that there SAS personal know of what is happening the entire operation is fucked so they lay low.

However, our boys are not useless like majority of the men in my life so they decide to infiltrate the corporation by acting as terrorists themselves who want to be business partners.

LETS ADD MORE ANGST so because Ghostie our beloved covers his face no one can really trace him back to tf 141 unless he gives his really name so he is the one who has to go in with no mask - Cue him having multiple mental breakdowns with Price being the guy in the chair trying to make sure his Lieutenant doesn’t kill himself before their side quest has even started.

Idk i thought it’d be neat. And found family between MC and TF 141 and maybe a love interest if I feel like it.

Now the important qns:

Will i write this? Yes i will

Will this come out anytime soon? Absolutely not.

Why? I’m a a lazy bitch and have exams.

Posting schedule for this? Imma drop the entire series on yall in one go

What do I aim to gain out of this? Readers to sob like I will when writing this. Also I’m projecting and stressed and currently sick with the flu so this helps

Will the writing be horrendous? Yes, I speak three languages and am better at my Mother Tongue than I am at English + I mainly write argumentative shit so story writing is different ball game. However, I do have the love of my life Grammarly so she will help me

[livelovecaliforniadreams]

Did Daughtry play "September"? Because that's my absolute favorite song by them. So jealous you got to see them! <3

Yeah he played September towards the end. That's such a good one too. God he has so many amazing songs. Like I could sit and listen to him play live for hours honestly. He played a ton off of the first album (Which is my favorite album). That & Leave This Town. But I listen to all the albums so much I knew all the songs. I didn't really know his new one that much that just came out called artificial. But I've been listening to it a lot today after hearing it live and that ones really good. I think that one came out a week or two ago. I'm obsessed with it now. He did the separate ways cover live that was amazing. Did a cover of wicked games. I only took that video of over you cause it was the last song & it's one of my absolute favorites. Also I just wanted to sit and enjoy the music and we were told not to take videos but I figured since it was the last song they couldn't throw me out 😂. He played a ton off of Leave This Town & Dearly Beloved. He played a song that never made it onto Leave This Town. I don't remember the name but it was really good too. He said when they made that album they had a ton of songs that he loved but didn't make the cut but that was one of his favorites. He played at least one song off every album except Break This Spell. But he is amazing live so if he's ever playing near you you should go see him. I loved his show cause it was part acoustic/part live band. He did a few songs where he just played him and the guitar no band. He did a version of No Surprise in a different key it was so good. Like his albums are amazing but like hearing him live is on another level. God he is so mega talented. His band too like the drummer is so good. And the venue was small and the audience didn't scream and they sat so it was like the best concert experience for me. Yeah just everything was perfection.