#you can't see it very well- but they are both wearing matching corsets as well

[topaz-carbuncle]

The Bhaalspawn and the vampire spawn

[kiwi-but-the-bird-not-the-fruit]

Hii! Can i req lizzie hearts x fem!reader meeting her mother for the first time? :))

Hi hi! Happy to get request made

Love lizzie so I'm happy to write for her!

I hope you like what I've come up with and thanks for the prompt! Makes it easier for me to see where the story should go

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Promt: the reader and Lizzie go to wonderland so that she can be introduced to Lizzies mom

She/her pronouns for the reader

Will be using [Name] as substitute for (y/n)

Fluff/nervous and tense (since she's meeting lizzie's mom)

Nickname for the reader- My Rose

Art not mine found on pinterest

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Lizzie Hearts is shown walking through the hallway alongside her is [Name] her girlfriend,who holds Lizzie's waist with her left arm, the two walk in sync.

We see [Name]'s face that seems very stressed out but she's trying to hide it as Lizzie chatted away happily "oh I just can't wait till you meet my mother today I just know she'll love you, well it's gonna take a while but sue will I'm sure of it" she snuggles onto [Name]'s shoulder giving her a reassuring smile

"Haha yeah...I really do hope so" she rested her head as the two walked past a group, [Name] recognized one and lifted her hand waving at them "do you want to try that new dress I made for you Rosette?" [Name] lifted her head looking down at Lizzie nodding her head in enthusiasm "oh yes please especially if we're matching" lizzie nods in agreement "love matching with you rosette" she got on her tiny toes and gave [Name] a kiss on her cheek

The two enter Lizzie's room and she quickly gets to work getting both their outfits from her closet as [Name] sits on the chair under her girlfriend's sewing table, she crosses her leg on the other waiting patiently with a soft smile waiting for Lizzie to emerge from her closet.

Lizzie who is still looking through her endless mountain of outfits grumbles "blasted things where is it'' she mumbles under her breath this makes [Name] giggles at her girlfriends little banter with the outfits she just can't pinpoint where they are "Ah! Here they are'' she twirls around with two dresses, lizzie goes up to [Name] and hands her the dress

They were mainly the signature colors that lizzie wore reds, blacks and golds but she added one more color by the colard of the dress was [Name]'s signature color, (f/c) it was a small part but even if it didn't entirely fit Lizzie's colors,she felt a fuzzy feeling that she considered and actually added it to her beautiful sewing. "Oh my!Liz you're the sweetest i love it!' [Name] ran up to Lizzie hugging her tight then picking Lizzie up twirling her around "Hahaha i'm happy to know you love it!" She giggles into her girlfriends chest

[Name] places her down taking the dress from Lizzie's hands "anything you make me I'll always be happy with" she leans down and places a gentle kiss on Lizzie's cheek leaving a kiss mark on it, she steps back "I'll change in the bathroom I'll be back, tell me if you need help with your corset and possibly help me too hehe" Lizzie nods her head giggling "okay thank you Rosette and I'll definitely hold you up on that offer~" [Name] gives a wink and walks to the bathroom with a hot face.

After several minutes [Name] comes out from the bathroom wearing the knee length dress "Hey Liz, I actually got mine on easier than usual. Did you change the design of the corset?" She tilted her head at Lizzie "yes I did, I didn't want you to be frustrated like last time-don't get me wrong I love your cute pout when you get angry or frustrated but I figured I'd change it to something more simpler" she turns around showing her's "I did it for mine as well so we'd match more" Lizzie turns back to face [Name] smiling

[Name] smiled back stepping closer she takes Lizzie's hand and walks up the the tall mirror, the two stood in front of it as they look contently at their matching dresses, lizzie had made two knee length red & black checker print with a small train at the back that covered the butt, with white lace ruffles on the inside looking out, a heart shape backless at the back that was covered somewhat with a sheer white mesh.

[Name] those a pose for fun and Lizzie follows along with her own, the two make a few more poses for fun giggling while doing so "looking good Liz~" [Name] looks at her in the mirror smirking "not as good as you rosette~" Lizzie wraps her arms around [Name]'s waist snuggling into her bosom " so squishy" making the (h/c) girl laugh

[Name] placed her hand on top of lizzie head and petted her hair gently "hmmm alright Liz as much as I love you snuggling into me,we should get going even if I'm a little nervous to meet your mom" [Name] confessed as she grabbed onto Lizzie with her left arm, squeezing her hip to ground herself from the the dreaded thought of "what if'

What if her mom didn't think she was good enough for Lizzie or what if she would make them break up because [Name]'s fairytale was a more lower status than her girlfriend what if-

"Hey! Snap out of it [Name]" Lizzie shook her girlfriend minutes after she had witnessed her stop all movements staying quiet as she silently contemplated every single thing she had to do right.

So Lizzie knew [Name] would over think any situation,especially meeting someone new, and since this was her mother [Name] was gonna meet she guessed this would happen. Lizzie grabbed [Name]'s hand and placed it on her soft fair cheek "it'll be alright rosette,she'll love you I just know it" Lizzie looked at her girlfriend with reassuring eyes and a squeeze on her hand

[Name] gives her a small smile and nod "your right i-i'm sorry I was over thinking even though I shouldn't, everything will be fine" she took a deep breath in and out "all fine"

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Lizzie and [Name] walk through the thick woods, sounds of the woodland creatures are heard from all directions. As the couple strutted on top the soft wet grass hand in hand they soon found themselves in front of a well. "Ready?" Lizzie asked "I think so" [Name] smiled sheepishly,

Lizzie went in first having her legs inside sitting,then takes her girlfriends hand and have her sit next to her both their legs inside and then with a push the two fall down down down the well

"Oof-" [Name] mutters as she lands on her butt and Lizzie lands perfectly "why did you land so elegantly?" Lizzie turns to her with a smug look "Natural talent,rosette" she says as she flips her hair " okay" [Name] says rolling her eyes as she gets up and dust herself off, Lizzie walks in front of her and mirrors her movements gently wiping off [Name]'s dress from the remaining dust.

"Thanks love" she gives Lizzie a kiss on the cheek, then grabs her hand "now lead the way love" and Lizzie does so

The two walk along a twisty path and they continue on through another forest but more wild than the one before "uhhh are you sure this is safe?" Lizzie nods "yup don't worry it's just a small part we have to go through just up ahead is the exit"

"Phew glad we got out of there love, I was getting chills!" [Name] exclaimed, rubbing her arms for emphasis, "oh come on it wasn't that bad" [Name] gave her a look "I mean- yes me too rosette!" Lizzie sighed once her girlfriend stopped and looked at their surroundings in awe "quite pretty isn't?" The (h/c)nette nodded and said "very in it's own crazy way..kinda like you"

"What do you mean?" Lizzie asked with a hint of curiosity "well your very pretty but there's this essences to you that's just so you..like a specific smell or sound that no one else can replicate cause it already is it's own thing, you are YOU but unlike anyone I've met and wonderland is something on it's own that can't be change just accepted with it's uniqueness and quirks" Lizzie stared starstruck at her girlfriends sudden poetic rant;her heart fluttering violently as if it was the first day they had held hands and shared a soft kiss on the cheek.

Lizzie hit her girlfriend's arm "Hey! What's that for?!" She didn't reply, just stood there with her cheeks red for a moment,then slamming her body into [Name], hiding her flustered face in the crock of the girl's neck which was hard since Lizzie had to get up on her tippy toes to do so.

"Hmpp" lizzie huffed making the (h/c)nette giggle "come on love we have to get there before the sun sets as much as i'd like to delay i don't wanna get lost in the dark" [Name] grabs shoulder and parts her away from her body making the stubborn princess groan in discontent but she eases and nods her head "your right rosette, let's go" she grabs her girlfriends hand and they continue their journey to the red queen's castle

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Arriving at the gates of the castle they are let in by the guards quickly, Lizzie holds [Name]'s hand and squeezes it as they get to the queen's throne room

"Lizze there you are ,finally you have arrived and with your girlfriend you told me so much about it!" She's rather loud but it was to be expected, [Name] bows out of respect "it's a true honor to be meeting your majesty" you stay in that position "rise my child!" You do and take once again Lizzie's hand, the queen stands up from her throne walking down to meet the two, the queen looks at the two of you with a poker face expression then turns to lizzie ``do you truly love her?" Lizzie confidentiality says 'yes'

"Does she treat you right?" Lizzie replies "yes she does,even when I can be too much" the queen hums "does she treat YOU right?" She turns to you "yes she does,always looking out for me and if alright at any given time" you smile knowing it's true.

"Well then" the queen steps closer to the two of you "Welcome to the family!" She hugs you tightly, laughing happily that her daughter had found the right person to not only love but possibly rule with her only daughter. She would be fine with it since now that she saw you and spoke to you, she knew you were worthy of her daughter and her respect for your honesty.

"Will you be staying for dinner?" The queen asked "will you be staying forever?!" The white rabbit shouted, [Name] laughed as her girlfriends face became bright red "Hahaha yeah I'm definitely staying!" She holds Lizzie by the waist and kisses her temple, the queen squeals "Oh we need a photo of the two of you- Scratch that portrait!" She runs to get the painter Wait Mother no, not now we just got here! AND I'M HUNGRY'' she shouts but it goes to deaf ears

"Love we could just sneak into the kitchen real quick and get you some tarts'' Lizzie lights up "oh right! I can't believe you remember, there are always tarts in the kitchen-Come on let's go before she comes back!!" she grabs your hand and makes a run for it, the two giggling as you make your way there.

Guess your worries were for not, thank goodness.

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Hope you like this one! I really liked making this one and hope you don't mind Lizzie is shorter than [Name] I just thought small angry gf x tall calm gf

I feel like the queen may be ooc but idk I like what I did for her questions for the couple

[lady-of-endless]

One Piece Matchup Trade for @pinejayy

Author's Note: Thank you so much for accepting to do this trade, dear. I hope you will enjoy this, have a wonderful day/night! ♥️

I match you with Katakuri Charlotte 💗!

- I think that he'd treat you so very well and that's exactly what you deserve. You like sweet treats so have him as the sweetest treat! How does it start? With him protecting you but as a duty and that's all. In time, this duty turns into a need to see you safe.

- It might be a slow burn as you're both a little bit shy at first but it gets so lovely gradually. He finds you so cute and so very pleasant to hang out with. Your presence is both calming and refreshing to him. You melt his heart when you take care of animals that are in need. However, all this admiration and reactions to everything will be very hard to detect as he's not used to expressing feelings like that. Be patient with Katakuri and prove to him that it's alright to feel and to express emotions.

- You two will look like such a power couple aesthetically, so matching! I'm obsessed. Besides, he'll be head over heels when you wear a corset or fishnet leggings. Your style will have him try harder to concentrate and function properly.

- We know that Katakuri finds bliss when he enjoys sweet stuff and rests a bit, of course in secret because he knows he has to keep up the image of a warrior, right? No, not with you. With you, he finally finds heaven. He'll share his favorite doughnuts with you and that's a big thing.

- Please, let him keep you on his lap as you tell him the story of each tattoo. He would love every second of it.

- Watch him blush so much if you leave black lipstick kiss marks all over him. He will stubbornly refuse to wipe those off, wearing them like a tattoo until they fade.

- You don't seem to be scared or even bothered by his appearance, his sharp fangs especially. He's shocked, it's impossible, he thinks you're lying. It will take a lot for you to convince Katakuri. You will know that he believes you when he stops hiding his mouth around you. (On an explicit note, when he wants to get your attention to initiate an intimate moment he'll look at you and slide the tip of his tongue over his fangs. Another signal will be him slipping a finger under your choker and pulling onto it gently).

- Noticing how attached and careful you are with your favorite plushies, he gets protective over them too for you! Of course, he will get new ones for you because he likes your reactions even if he doesn't really show it at first.

- He also dislikes loud, noisy people, and places. I can see you two being so comfortable with each other's silence. But more than that, I can see you two watching horror movies together.

- Likes that you speak your mind and can protect yourself! You'll see him nodding proudly behind you as you roast anyone who mocks you. And the fact that you won't hesitate to tell him what's wrong it's exactly what he needs because he's not that experienced regarding romantic connections. He is a good listener so he'll always listen closely and try to fix it.

- Your dark sense of humor can make Katakuri crack a smile! There aren't many things for him to smile about but your sense of humor and how you move around to the music from your headphones it's impossible for him not to grin and watch you with a sparkle in his eyes.

- In bed, except him to be very careful at first, a bit tense because of his lack of experience and because of never letting himself feel pleasure from intimacy. Take the lead a few times and in time, he'll be very attentive of what you want and what you like. Once he's comfortable and he knows what to do, oh dear, you're in for a ride. He can't get enough of giving you pleasure. So yes, he enjoys giving, the most.

[duelbraids]

ro "rook" mercar design notes for future me when i finally have energy to draw:

underwear/nightgown

just. worlds most basic set of stays, function over form (corsetry maybe? anything with boning to protect from stabbing. also, thedas' underwear technology confuses me deeply. the canon femme undergarments are like a shitty bandeau. no wonder you can't make your chest area very large.)

nightgown is short, undyed with lace trimming and patching. Patch works fabric will match her other clothes. No sleeves, square neck, straight cut. One patch is more decorative, in the rough shape of a dog. (implication being that she has kept this for a very long time, and has outgrown it, but keeps trying to patch/add to it so she doesn't have to buy a new one. dog patch has sentimental value, so she's obstinate about it.)

casual wear

red high neck blouse, balloon sleeves (or anything that comes a closed wrist cuff) somewhat hidden other the rest of her clothes (from one of the items in game: "red for the blood of the people lost" held close to her chest and protected.)

possible collar shapes: peter pan (too youthful?) johnny (feels more piratey than rebel?) lace bib (too formal? too fancy?) need to cover the full chest for Scar reasons. shawl collar could also work. (too matronly?) bird lapel pin/collar clip (sparrow.)

IDEA 1: dark blue vest - similar vibes to a victorian walking suit, or like, menswear-adjacent. something with the implication of internal pockets, patched but less visibly than the night gown. newsies shit, y'know the vibes. teal trimmings (maybe buttons? that would be cute)

IDEA 2: Teal sash/belt/"corset" which would allow the shape of the blouse to be More Visible but also, wouldn't tie into that idea of hiding the red blouse/blood of the people, as much?

i'm torn on bottoms. a skirt would be cute, though my brain tells me to be more realistic (since video game characters rarely wear full skirts) if it were a skirt, it would be some kind of over-skirt/short dress/kirtle situation.

however, i also like the idea of straight leg pants - again, broadway newsies the musical ish. Patterned, maybe? Plaid would be an option (both to tie in more teal and to tie her to Varric?)

A middle ground could be some kind of tabard-type vibe? Though, tabard leans too much into armor, i think, so maybe keeping her casual wear to red and dark blue works the best.

i want to work in some embroidery, somewhere? less messy than the cutesy dog patch on the night gown. embroidery ties into wings and maybe some snakes (lol snakes and songbirds)

armor:

likely? a variation on the tevinter battle robes, but with my favorite aspects of the other armors.

specifics: I want more of the legs visible, rather than it being a true robe. Either more leg split (?) or just nix the skirt and tie back into that idea of a short kirtle.

the KEYS from the rogue aspirational armor. i hate the rest of it, rogues should never be shiny, but the idea of keeping all the keys you've stolen from slavers fucks so hard

i want to tie into what we see from the Companions, where their casual clothes are clearly what's under their armor. (most visible with Neve and her blue scarf.)

ties her hair up ala Neve as well, though with a hair pin rather than a sick hat

dark blue scarf, big enough to tie over her face if need be. big hood as well.

inner layer: casual clothes, red. middle layer: teal, with hints of white. outer later: dark blue, hidden, assassin's creed liberty vibes. all metal is silver/grey.

[millylotus]

I had a moment & did a thing sorry not sorry ;P

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Damian would definitely wear just below or above knee-length dresses with a high low style, all nature themed with flowers, plants & animals embroidered on them, he is just a kid after all & I think Talia [fashion icon that she is] would have had most if not all his dresses made when he was little, all mainly in green or white

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Duke usually goes for floor length pastel yellow & white gowns with shoulder-less sleeves & a low neckline & corset tops, I think he'd enjoy lots of lace in his fits as well, sometimes he'll use his powers to make his dresses shimmer

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Bruce is mothering no way else to put it, formfitting trailing gowns that are either velvet/soft fabric or lace with lots of detail, along with his signature black gowns or pure white floral gowns

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Dick is so big sister with his dresses, long but not trailing gowns with long sleeves that often turn into capes, he likes a low neckline with embroidery on the bodice for the most part, he'd usually where white or rich blues all with silver no in-between

Also Dick & Bruce low-key dress the same

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Jason has such youngest daughter of a victorian family vibes when it comes to dresses, he'll keep to this sort of nightgown style with delicate layers, & plentiful but dispersed embroidery across the dress, throwing on a shall when the outfit needs something new, all in whites or off-white pinks

Don't care that he went from itty-bitty-baby to giant man he is keeping this style [except for that on slit-dress rebellious phase but we don't talk about that [mainly cause i can't find the dress again o(TヘTo)]]

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Steph likes to make a statement with her suits [that i can't really find unfortunately] all extremely detailed in their patterns & layers & all very specific shades of light purple, it's all either purple mixed with a warm cream color & gold accents, she takes pleasure in looking fanciful

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Babs because of her wheel chair likes suits that aren't as stiff [regardless of what you see in the pictures :P] all with a perfect split at the waist so sitting does crinkle of discomfort, she like earthy tones with major cream & white tones & the occasional suit jacket of fancy cardigan

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Tim likes a sheer turtleneck for his dresses with some dimension to the skirt & a heavy amount of detail across the outfit, with long sleeves or a cape both things just as detailed as the rest of the dress, I think he wouldn't where much jewellery across his neck or arms because of that too, he'd either be in white or light deep reds, kind of wine colors actually

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Cass lastly likes a nice corset suit combo with very detailed embroidered or lace corsets & low necklaces to go with the corset, high pants of course, with sublet patterns on them, the most basic of her out fit tends to be her suit jacket but there's always a little bit of matching detail at the hems of the jacket, she's either in black or with a white piece to go with her mainly black ensemble

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I've done a thing & I shant not look back!

batboys wearing dresses to galas and batgirls wearing suits to galas that's it that's the post. yes batboys includes Bruce and yes batgirls includes Kate

[liannelara-dracula]

💃 What it is like at those vampire balls and what they want their sacrificial bride to wear. for s/m boys (if only 6 characters, S boys plz)

Hi Love,

Thank you for asking this wonderful question. I am so excited to do this. Seriously you have no idea.

-Jade

S Bride Prompt

Requests are open

General hcs:

So before I go into to detail, I will be talking about all the general things since it applies to everyone.

Obviously, this takes place in the demon world so everything is much different.

You are the only human there but, don't worry everyone has to be well behaved since only royal and noble vampire families attend.

Plus you are supposed to get married to a vampire prince, I highly doubt they'd mess with you.

Anyways you have to wear a dress whether you like it or not tbh.

And everyone is on their best behavior, including you.

In this sense, you obviously have to learn or already know how to dance and what to say.

Keep in mind that the vampire world is most likely behind the times so the dresses are little old fashioned, but still beautiful.

They may find you attractive but you are obliviously not into them, I mean how could you be they are forcing you to be their bride. You don’t want to be there at all.

Each brother probably has their own individual bride in this sense, that’s how I’ve been seeing the setting for the s bride prompt.

So rules are always different for you as an s bride, depending on the one who chooses you.

Shu:

He doesn't care to much of what you wear just make sure it fits the occasion or you'll stick out like a sore thumb.

I think he'd like a blue dress on you like the one above.

I mean it does make you like a princess, so why not?

Surprisingly he is very active to keep in image.

So he will dance with you of course and you will most likely have to dance with others if they ask.

He probably prefers to stay in the back and not attract attention so you may sit by him and have people talk to the both of you.

There would be occasional teasing probably of how you may feel uncomfortable in the dress.

Since I mean who really is to corsets and petticoats nowadays?

May be outside tho to listen to music.

He really hates all the dancing and stuff he just can’t wait till the night is over.

But you his s bride makes it better cause he could still have a drink or tease you when he pleases.

I see that when he is outside he does like to converse with you, especially since you also hate this yourself.

Reiji:

He definitely picked out your outfit, there is no mistaking that. Can't even imagine if he let you do it since he's all about control when it comes to his sacrificial bride. And its to have you both match as well.

He made you style your hair elegantly and wear his mother’s jewelry, bc he believes you should wear them as his soon to be wife.

And red lipstick is must since he actually has a thing for it😂

Wants you to make a good impression so he puts you to strict training before you actually attend.

You know how to bow a little (like they do in victorian times) before dancing.

He even taught you to not laugh and to speak elegantly. And he definitely taught you how to dance.

You of course dance with him and maybe some of his brothers and other people but of course, only if he allows it.

Reiji wants to show you off and expects you to listen to him and not leave his side and meet other people he knows.

Takes you out in the yard if he needs to scold you or have a drink.

He does everything so discreetly, and he’s always making sure you don’t try anything stupid or fall out of line (in his terms) you obviously tense up whenever he seems to be displeased by your mannerisms, after all you don’t want to disappoint him.

Typically whispers in your ear about the people you need to avoid or even something sexual if he feels up for it.

Honestly when he sees you in the dress your wearing he might even be turned on(hear me out!) so bc of course you are both in a public place and he can’t do anything, but he can slip off your glove or undo your corset strings after or when outside in the courtyard completely alone.

Laito:

Of course, he would choose something pretty to make you stand out.

A shinning and dazzling dress and of course off the shoulder.

So that later he can drink from you.

He also gave you a special necklace to capture anyone’s eye in the ballroom.

He dances with a lot of ladies and you are most likely left by yourself.

Doesn’t care if you dance with someone since it’s best you do for manners.

Tells you that you look beautiful.

Whispers things in your ear when you both dance.

Will have you sit down beside him as you both observe and he tells you who everyone is even though you didn’t ask.

Has his hand in your lap enough tho he shouldn’t.

Never follows the rules of courtesy at all and takes advantage of you in public if he can.

He finds it exciting and can’t help but try to make it happen.

May even make others believe your relationship is well and real (cause you know image is important)

He is a very good dancer so you won’t have to worry about screwing up.

But just know you won’t be left alone the entire time at the ball.

Kanato:

He pick something very adorable and Lolita like.

Anything to make you like a doll will do.

He even did your hair and fixed it with a bow in the back.

Made sure you were the prettiest and the cutest.

He is a little possessive and watches you as your dancing with others.

Kanato prefers that you don’t dance with anyone but he knows Reiji will tell him to make things look natural.

He would definitely dance with you and tell you how pretty you look tho.

After words he would probably eat some sweets and expect you to follow him and sit beside him as you watch others.

And although every girl must wear gloves as it is appropriate he likes to slide them off to see your fingers and mostly cause he seems like he’d have some strange hand fetish.

Ayato:

Something red to make you stand out and for you to wear his favorite color (Idk if it actually is but it suits him)

Is so arrogant about you he makes sure to have your arm hooked on to his and show you off.

He expects you to be enthusiastic about it even tho you of course would have no interest being there.

Defiantly dances with you and doesn’t let anyone else do it unless it’s a friend of his (yes, he has friends) and he is okay with it.

Talks to others but doesn’t let you out of his sight is complete torture and if some snob insults you he doesn’t care and he doesn’t care if you leave or run off because you need a break.

He tells you to get over yourself if your sad or crying.

But he will follow you to see what is up with you. And mostly likely take advantage of you their.

Doesn’t let you out if his sight.

If someone flirts with you it won’t end well.

Subaru:

He thinks you look beautiful but honestly let you pick out the dress since he doesn’t care.

Probably wouldn’t care who you dance with since he doesn’t like going either.

He’d do it only if Reiji forced him to.

Other than that he steps away from crowd and is probably outside so he doesn’t have to deal with others.

And he also prefers you don’t follow him and he doesn’t care who dances with you since he knows it’s better to not cause a commotion.

But still he makes sure no one else is flirting with you, like Laito for example he’d instantly take you away from who ever it was.

You’d be outside with him as he’s only dragging you until of course he’s put you up against the wall and is drink form your neck forcefully.

He just waits for the dance and everything to be over and he prefers to interact so in this since you get a break from him but maybe not from others if they take an interest in you.

♤ ˗ˏˋ 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑚𝑦 𝑤𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑠 𝑜𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝐼 𝑑𝑜 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠 ˎˊ˗ ♤

♤ ©𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟔~present day ♤

[knockyasocksoff2022]

The Tribute Parade Part 1 - DAZAI

| 1,21 words |

My stylist is young, a girl named Lucy with pink-red hair down to her butt, and that's while it's plaited. She takes my measurements carefully, her touch light. She's afraid of me.

The tribute parade costumes are known for being horrendous, I can only imagine what ours will be. A poorly constructed boulder suit maybe? Mining outfits, no that's 12.

"Can I make a request of you, Lucy?"

She looks at me, wary, suspicious, "Within reason, maybe. But, uh, certain areas must be covered, it's the law!" She blushes.

"Oh, of course. I wouldn't dream of exposing myself, I do have class."

"So, what?" She says, still cautious.

"I want a corset, and eye makeup. Something fierce, cat-like." A contrast to Nakahara's doggishness.

She drops her tape measure. "What? Why? T-that's for women! Wait, n-no that's not what I meant! What I meant is that they don't let us dress the male tribute like that. I guess they want you looking strong or whatever."

"But can't you break the rules just this once? Just for me? You see, Nakahara is so pretty, I have to make myself stand out somehow, no?"

"I mean . . . of course." She looks even more unsure now. She must think I'm vicious for thinking of trying to get a leg up so soon, but what can I say, I'm a career. She knows that, so she doesn't question it. 

-

As we head down to the area where we'll wait before we're paraded out, Lucy turns to me, cheeks redder than her hair, "Y-you're very handsome already, Osamu. Good luck."

It feels strange to hear someone using my given name, but allowing her to was an easy way to make her feel special.

"To you as well, Lucy-chan. I'll wear your clothes well, make sure everyone knows what a brilliant stylist you are."

She makes a sound that falls somewhere between "Thank you" and a squeak, probably at my addition of the suffix. Ranpo told me that she's the youngest stylist the games has ever had, barely 16, and I'm very aware of how vile I am for flirting with her, but now I can use this affection she has for me to my advantage. She'll do anything I say.

-

Nakahara is already waiting for us. Seeing him makes me stop, he looks far different than he ever has. I expected them to put him in some sort of awful dress, but I should've known better than to think that Nakahara would let himself be forced into doing anything he didn't want to. He's far too strong-willed for that, in fact, he almost looks pleased with his outfit. I can tell, the confidence rolls off him in a way I haven't seen since our last training session back in Two.

His hair is down and grey tinsel has been put in, probably the same way Lucy did mine. We don't match (we never have) but we complement each other.

He wears a collared shirt and matching suit, both the colour of wet stone, with real pebbles attached as accents, including a one on his cross-tie. There are even minuscule stones under his cheeks, all unpolished, rough, and raw just like us, making them sparkle in the sun that comes through the massive skylight. His eyes are stormy again today. Alive, so alive.

We aren't equals, not really. I've been deluding myself. He's more than I'll ever be and to sacrifice myself for him wouldn't be such a waste. I wonder what Oda thinks of this. Surely he'd say it would be noble of me to help Nakahara, but I doubt he'd approve of me sacrificing myself, even for someone as good as Nakahara. He thought life was a waste, even mine. He'd call me selfish, and tell me I'm using Nakahara as an excuse to end it all. And he'd be right. But since my death would help Nakahara, he'd be right and wrong at the same time. Isn't life so funny that way? This is what he wanted, to help others. It'd be poetic to die fulfilling his life's mission, to give my death some meaning, that's what Oda would've wanted.

I must admit I'd miss Nakahara if he died, that's what I'm trying to get rid of by competing, the feeling of feeling anything for anyone, including myself. I'd miss having a sparring partner, someone to get my blood flowing with a good argument in the morning, someone who knows exactly how to send adrenaline thudding through my veins, someone who can give me the only feeling I let myself feel: thrill.

But, he has to die, so that's that.

He's looking at me just the same, but for once I can't read him and I don't bother to. Instead, I take his arm.

"Hmm, it's a tragedy," I whisper in his ear as we walk toward our chariot, aptly coloured a dusty grey. "Even with all that makeup you still look like a slug." It's meant to be particularly annoying since I can tell he's wearing none, but he must be feeling so sure of himself that it rolls right off because he says nothing, until he steps up, then, "All the makeup in the Capitol can't make a mackerel pretty, or did you think I wouldn't notice?" and then stretches out his hand to help me up though I, being 21 centimetres taller, clearly don't need it. But it helps with my plan, so I take it, allowing him to help me into the chariot.

His voice was a low whisper, almost drawing, sickly sweet with venom like a hard candy that's rotted on the inside, sticky, the kind of voice that clings to you. I've never heard him like that. Nakahara has never been one for quiet intimidation, always shouting and kicking about things. Perhaps he's modified his tactics for the games, I can't say he's the only one.

When we're both in I look at Nakahara once more. His eyes are fixed straight ahead at a point far in the distance even, it seems, beyond President Dostoevsky's mansion. At some signal neither heard nor seen, but from a distant control room, people begin cheering and the large doors begin to open.

The Hunger Games | soukoku |

Dazai and Chuuya are from District 2. Fukuzawa is their mentor who never talks about his games. Ranpo is their District Escort. Dostovesky is the President. Nikolai is a Telvision show host. All is great in Panem. Why do you ask?

(This fic includes Trans female to male Chuuya. If you don't like it, just don't read it.)

[cl0wnmama]

Take me away

Warning! Violence and abuse

Cesar's POV-

Today was the day, I get to visit my darling friend! Maximilian, he was such a treat to be around, it's refreshing to have someone who truly understands you, I mean I love my other friends, Spencer and Peter but..they are different, they watch me perform not join me, it can be boring

"Master I'm sorry.. please"

Butler? I turn around a corner to see Ivan towering over the small porcelain doll, an broken tea cup as under their feet "useless! Why must you be so useless!?" He was about to hit him!

I rushed over to them and grabbed my brother's hand before he can even lay a hit, he looked a me in a intense glare

"Cesar unhand me"

"I will, unless you don't hit your Butler, you're being selfish! You're being just like father!" I shouted

Smack

I fell to the ground letting go of his hand, Ivan hit me with his other hand, he was fuming

"Watch yourself, do not forget who I am, I'm the oldest! I'm in charge you are merely an shadow under me! You are nothing, now. get. out. of. my. sight!

He turned away as Butler followed behind, looking at me, I gave him a small smile.

I wanted to cry, he does this me all the time when I point out his awful behavior... I hate it..my must greed take away my brother! WHY WHY WHY!

Tears fall from my eyes, as I gotten up, I quickly wipe them, Maximilian needs me.. I can be unhappy in front of him.. he'll think I'm pathetic too.

I walked down the hall and open the door to the basement, walking down the stairs, and going through the portal.

I smell the fresh air, as I walked to the entrance, I when inside, I quickly ran to the stage, please be here I repeated in my head

I saw him, the stage illuminated under him, he looked..nice.. I smiled

"Maxi!" I called out for him, he turned to look at me, his red eyes looked at me

Maximilian smile brightly and he walked down the stage to basically lift me off the ground, and spin me

"Cesar!! I'm so happy you're here!! I have everything planned, look look!" He excitedly handed me the script, it was an romantic, he loved writing those, but it took an unexpected turn and both the lovers die, turning into a tree where there souls intertwined forever, truly beautiful script.

"Oh Maximilian, it's wonderful, I'm already suspecting you have our amazing actors?"

"Yep, you and me! Richard is being the evil sorcerer"

"Uh? This is new Maxi but alright I like change" I say happily, I was feeling nervous however.. I actually never played a main role in a romantic play before.

Despite that I sucked in a breath and followed Maximilian to the stage.

We got in costumes, I wore a beautiful rose gold pattern dress shirt matched with an dark pink corset, also black dress pants and black heeled boots, last thing was an rose in my hair.

I walked out feeling fabulous! Maximilian cleared his throat as I turned around

He was wear an royal purple that had an golden vine vest, under was a white dress shirt, he wore matching purple pants, and golden boots and to tie everything together, and beautiful golden coward.

He stared at me for quite a while, I smile at him, and waved at him, trying to get his attention "why~ hello my good Juliet" he flirted

Typical Maximilian, can't get away from him without at least one flirty remark

I chuckled "and to you as well my dear Romeo, are you set on those names?"

"Not ready, I thought of something more magical, like Celeste and Magus" pointing to me for 'Celeste' then himself for 'Magus'

I nodded, loved those names, suited the story very well

"Well let's get to practicing while Richard is away hm?" I suggest as I quickly walked on stage, I was so ready!

As everyone was set in motion,

It starts

"Oh my darling,why must you come here? You know our love will only kill us in the end!" 'Celeste' says as looking at 'Magus'shocked and despair

"I know this, but a world without you is a world I cannot live in! I dream about you, you never leave my mind, because I love you to dearly to let you go" said 'Magus' as he reach for his lovers touch

'Celeste' look at his lover in the eyes, he cannot say no.. he embrace it, looking at 'Magus'

'Magus'touch his face..

My eyes widen as I flinched hard, and felt scared of on sudden, I'm sorry I didn't mean it, don't hit

"Cesar? That wasn't apart of the script" Called out Maximilian, he was slightly irritated, he known to be an harass.. no please no Ivan I'm sorry

"Cesar?.." he called out more worried this time

I realized my eyes were flowing with tears, as I looked at him "I'm sorry... I'm so sorry Maxi.." I apologize to him

"What's going on Cesar? You never like this, does this make you uncomfortable?" Asked Maximilian, which surprised me a lot, this is kinda out of character for him..

"I'm fine"

"No you're not"

He can see right through me

"Please tell me.."

He said gently

I can't take it, I hug him, and cried into him "I-It's just when I was coming here, Ivan was angry with someone and I stopped him from hurting him, he's acting just like father! He hit me! Where you touch me that's where! Oh Maximilian I don't wanna go back, please take me away!" I cried as I felt Maximilian hold me, caressing my back

"Oh Cesar.. my darling, you are safe with me, I will not let him touch you again" Maximilian whispered to me, I felt calm

"You really mean that?" I say looking at him

He smiled and nods "why of course"

I don't wanna pull away from this warm embrace,it felt so safe

"Now let's take a break, and have some wine, I know how much you like that!" Said Maximilian

I nod happily as I wiped my teary face

As we walk side by side to the wine pantry.

[staytiny-angel]

Grace and Country 2/5

Rating: M

Pairing: 'Hangman' Adam Page/F!OC, One-Sided Kenny Omega/F!OC

Warnings: Canon-Typical Violence, Harrassment.

Co-Written with @lilmissriottbliss

Taglist - @moxleyunstable, @axelwolf8109

Summary: Ava and Adam go on that date, it goes about you'd expect with the Dark Order involved, Things with Kenny come to a head.

"Violet!"

"Ava? Mon Cher Smackdown is about to start why are you screaming?"

Violet gave Finn a look before putting her friend on speaker "Mon Roi is here too, what has you so excited?"

"ADAM ASKED ME OUT ON A DATE!" The younger woman yelled

Ava could hear Violet cursing in French from a small distance. “Really? That’s amazing! Give me details now!”

“I lost my phone and he found it near your adopted brother and then Kenny was annoying me again so he covered for me by saying we were going on a date so we’re actually going on one!”

“I’m so happy for you!”

“Could you do me a solid?” Ava asked

Of course darling," Violet agreed

"Could you guys not tell the big boss?" Ava begged "You know I love Seth to death, he's my dad shaped person but he wasn't happy about this whole AEW deal and he'll be even less happy to know I'm going out with one of their biggest stars"

Violet and Finn silently looked at each other before agreeing to the younger woman's request 

"We have you covered darlin" Finn said

"What are you going to do about Omega?I'm starting to worry. He's really not taking no for an answer"

“I honestly don’t know” Violet handed Finn her phone, taking out the one meant to contact family. “I think she’s going to threaten Malachi into watching over you” Finn laughed.

Ava sighed in relief. While Malachi Black, formerly Aleister to Violet, was dark and broody, he did scare Kenny with a simple stare.

“So how’s Mox doing?” Violet asked

"Good, he got Omega off my back last night at Dynamite, threatened him with Ruby." Ava said "He said something about promising Seth to look out for me?"

"Seth called him and Miro when you decided to go to AEW." Finn explained 

"Called in a couple of favors. You are the baby."

Ava rolled her eyes even though the couple couldn't see her "You've got to be kidding. I can take care of myself"

“We know you can take care of yourself, Seth has a overprotective complex” 

Ava sighed but didn’t disagree. “We got to go now, see you tomorrow!” Violet hung up.

Ava turned off her phone, seeing a text from Kenny. Rolling her eyes she deleted it. “Is he ever gonna get the point?” she asked herself before flopping on her hotel bed with a sigh. He thoughts turning to the next day and the date she'd been dreaming of for years. 

-Next Day-

She met Adam outside a café, the cowboy looking handsome in normal street clothes and without a certain purple and black group shadowing him.

“Wow, you look great” He said. As she grinned and twirled once, showing off the chic black suit she'd chosen for their date. 

“Hope you don’t mind but I invited Violet and Finn just in case your friends crash this”

Adam laughed. “They probably will ”

Inside the cafe, Finn and Violet were waiting at a four person table, surprisingly without their daughter in tow.

"Where's my honey bunches?" Ava said with a pout, that Adam found adorable

"Becky and Seth have her" Finn explained "Shes having a playdate"

“Next time you bring her” Ava pointed. Finn raised his hands and laughed. Violet slid over a black coffee to Adam. 

He accepted it with a smile. “So you’re both going after the top titles in Smackdown” he grinned.

“Yup!” Finn grinned. “It was fun in NXT but I wasn’t spending another week without my husband there” Ava sighed.

“It’s harder to get a title shot in AEW, I have no idea how to get to Britt”

“I lost the chance to be the inaugural champ because someone thought an ass deserved it” Adam muttered.

“Adam I think your shadows are here” Violet pointed to a booth in the corner

Sure enough, the purple and black clad Dark Order filled 2 corner booths, trying and failing to be inconspicuous.

"Oh god" Adam murmured "I'm so sorry, I shouldn't have told them where we were going"

"They really care about you" Ava smiled at Adam causing that feeling to flutter in his chest again.

"You may not, have been the first AEW champion but you've got a shot at Kenny at All Out" Finn says

"Sure do" Adam says "I can't wait, I've owed Kenny an ass whipping for a while now"

“Fucking creep” Ava rolled her eyes. “How’s Paige?”

“You don’t know that from Mox?” Violet raised an eyebrow. Ava shook her head

“She’s ok, doing wonders with her makeup. Her and Sonya are planning a wedding”

Ava nodded. “Sorry about the Kingdom disbanding” 

Finn rolled his eyes. “Of course Vince brings up Shotzi and us but doesn’t want Kyle, Millie, Priscilla or Jordan”

Adam and Ava share a smile knowing while AEW wasn't a paradise by any means…it wasn't run by Vince. 

A loud bang sounded from the back of the restaurant and every turned to see one of the corner tables flipped on its side as John Silver looked around sheepishly. 

Adam dropped his head in his hands as Ava giggled "I'm sorry, I'm gonna go uh…handle this" he said rising from his seat and heading toward the back.

"They are quite the band of misfits aren't they?" Violet said as she tried not to laugh as they watched Adam easily lift the table back in place and start seemingly scolding them for crashing their double date.

"They love him, and with the entire….mess with the Elite…their very overprotective." Ava explained

“Reminds me of Seth” Violet said. Ava’s eyes widened.

“It totally is!” Finn laughed as Adam came back and sat down.

“They swear it’s just a coincidence they all wanted to come here on the same day and time as my date”

Violet flipped her hair and put on her flirty voice. “So this a date?

Adam blushed hard. “Um…well, it’s definitely not a…friend thing…we’re not friends. I mean we are friends!, but I want to be more then friends!" 

Ava blushed as she watched Adam flounder under Violet's question 

"Leave him alone, mo chroi" Finn finally rescued the younger man from his wife. 

“I was just being a good friend” Violet smirked.

Adam took a breath. “I don’t know why but I have a thing for goth people”

Ava looked at Violet.

“Really? Is that why you went to the Dark Order?”

“Honestly? Kenny ruined tag teams for me. The Bullet Club went to shit after you were kicked out”  

Finn’s eye twitched, remembering how the Young Bucks fucked him over.

“The Bullet Club is nothing to me now. They ruined it!”

“The Elite’s worse, nothing but kissing Kenny’s ass, apparently he was looking to go to Impact and take their top title”

“Thank god the old man bought them, Impact might have been the worse part of my career but AEW would have ruined them” Violet sipped her ice coffee.

Adam sighed.

“I don’t know what happened. One minute he was my brother, now he’s a stranger” Adam said quietly as Ava rubbed his back

"Its okay, your going to take the AEW title from him at All Out." Ava consoled him.

The 2 couples finished their meal and left the restuarant, Finn and Violet heading to the arena to get ready for Smackdown, and Ava and Adam walking though the city streets enjoying each other's company. 

"This has been great" Ava says as they finally end up back at the hotel

"We'll have to do it again sometime" Adam replied causing Ava to blush again.

"Maybe next time….just the two of us?" He asked softly

“No demon and vampires. No Dark Order” Ava agreed. Adam hugged her.

“Adam!” Evil Uno yelled. The pair looked at the stable. Anna walked over. “Well, the date was a success so Alex made you this” She handed a black jacket to Ava. It had a purple rose stitched in the back.

“Wow, Alex’s a suckup” Adam joked. “I’m totally wearing this next week” Anna smiled.

“C’mon Adam, before the idiots start screaming” 

He rolled his eyes but hugged Ava goodbye, kissing her hair before walking away.

The Next Week 

After spending the weekend and into the next week bouncing between elation over her successful date with Adam (including spending a hefty amount of time texting back and forth with the cowboy) and annoyance that Kenny just would not stop texting and calling, it was finally Wednesday and time for that weeks episode of Dynamite, at which Ava had a match against Nyla Rose.

 

Over the past few days she had gone hunting for more appropriate gear to compliment her new jacket and was now wearing black leather shorts with purple accents and a purple and black corset top. 

"Don't you look like a full fledged member of the misfit society, I really thought you'd have better taste Sweetheart" Kenny said walking up to her, the Young Bucks flanking him

“I’ve liked purple and black before the Dark Order existed” Ava snapped.

Kenny grabbed her arm. “Let go!”

“I just want what’s best for you” Kenny said fiercely 

“HEY!” Darby Allin hit Kenny with a skateboard.

“She’s said no to you for weeks now, get lost!” He roared, Ava seeing why Mox had pretty much adopted him.

Kenny looked panicked and all but ran. The Bucks, glaring at her as the followed

“Thanks” Ava said to Darby. “I hate that fucker”

"Join the club" Darby replied 

Later that night after beating Nyla Rose, Ava was celebrating in the ring when Kenny's music hit and The Elite surrounded the ring. 

"I really tried to do this in private Ava, baby but you just won't listen to me, you'd rather hang out with those losers instead of being part of The Elite"

“I. Am. Not. Your. Baby!” Ava screamed,.

Kenny stepped in, smirking. “Just accept the date”

The crowd began chanting variations of yes and no. 

Then the music of the Dark Order hit, Adam leading the stable to a beat down. Colt tackled Kenny, Adam waving sarcastically at him before going over to Ava, "You okay Darlin?"

"Yeah, fucking asshole. Why won't he leave me alone" 

"Ava, Ava!" Kenny panted, "I have a deal for you, since you and the drunk, seem so close lately, Next week….you and Adam against me and Britt Baker. You win, you get a title shot at All Out. You two lose, Cowboy loses his shot, and you go out with me"

Ava looked at Adam, who was clenching his jaw. Anna and Evil Uno nodded their heads.

Ava grabbed a mic. “We accept! And let’s raise the stakes!!! If we win and move on to kick you asses at All Out, you leave me the fuck alone!” 

Kenny gulped "Done!"

“I’ll add to that!” Adam yelled. “When I kick your ass, you don’t get to have a rematch as long as I’m champion. Let someone else get an opportunity”

"Deal!" Kenny said cockily "It doesn't matter anyway "You two are gonna lose and when you do...not only will Adam never get a shot at the AEW Championship,  Ava...baby...your all mine" 

[juminhandfs]

Hantober Day 10

Choir Practice: Favorite song that reminds you of Jumin.

I made a playlist actually 👀

I went overboard and tried to include songs fitting of every significant moment of his life in chronological order, including the bad endings and even when he crashed Seven's car... ending with the Good Ending.

If you are going to listen to this I have to warn you, it has 2 songs that touch on the bad ending 2 and can be triggering for some people: Lullaby from The Cure which is more metaphorical and Prison Sex by Tool whose lyrics are very graphic. Listen at your own risk and take care.

But here I want to talk about the first song on the playlist that sorts of encapsulates Jumin's life and what meeting MC means to him.

The song I'm talking about is Lateralus, also from Tool, which has the particularity of relying heavily on the Fibonacci sequence both in the metric of the syllables and in the meaning of the song. This is a song about grow.

If you have never heard about the Fibonacci sequence, also known as The Golden Ratio, I recommend to you to watch all these videos on YouTube talking about it because is something super interesting!

Basically The Fibonacci sequence is the mathematic that you can find in the nature, which goes like this:

0+1 =

1+1= 2

2+1= 3

3+2= 5

5+3= 8

8+5= 13 and so on...

Theses numbers when put on a graphic look like this: a spiral

A grad student made a video about the Fibonacci in Lateralus for a project and there it's infinitely better explained of what can I do here, but sadly the video was taken down, what I could find is this same video from someone who reposted it.

I want to encourage you to watch it so you can understand better how the lyrics match with Jumin's life:

Black/ 0+ 1 =

then /+1 =

white are/ 2 + 1 =

all I see/ 3 +  2 =

in my infancy/ 5 + 3 = 8

This is like a perfect description of Jumin's life growing up and raised like a businessman, with no place to emotions and creativity

Red and yellow then came to be/ 8 - 3=

reaching out to me/ 5  - 2 =

Lets me see/ 3

Red and yellow could stand for V and Rika. They showed him another way for things to be: these are the colors more vibrant in the rainbow. Trough them Jumin got to experience friendship and love. And they "came came to him, reaching out to him" he didn't went looking out for them.

As below, so above and beyond, I imagine/ 13 - 5 =

Drawn beyond the lines of reason/ 8 - 3=

Push the envelope/ 5 -2 = 

Watch it bend 3

Below, above, beyond: the lyrics are describing the dimensions of a box, that's the envelope to push made by "the lines of reason". Also note how the number of syllables were in crescendo, but now they are descending, why? What is stopping the spiral from growing? What is stopping Jumin? The answer is in the following chorus: 

Over thinking, over analyzing separates the body from the mind

Withering my intuition, missing opportunities and I must

Feed my will to feel my moment drawing way outside the lines

Then we have the repetition of the same verses and the chorus + the following verses

There is (2)

so (1)

much (1)

more and (2)

beckons me (3)

to look through to these (5)

infinite possibilities (8)

The next verse marks the moment the song changes, it stops counting syllables and with it both the song and the lyrics go in an endless crescendo...

Feed my will to feel this moment 

Urging me to cross the line

Reaching out to embrace the random

Reaching out to embrace whatever may come

A thing I haven't noticed, but I do now as I'm writing this is that the voice and the style of the singing also changes here. Up to this point was kinda robotic but here is really soft, in awe, you can feel the sincerity of the singer in his voice. If I had to parallel this moment in the song to one in Jumin's route it definitely would be when he tells you about his threads at 2 am. It's my favourite moment in the whole song, as I imagine Jumin saying those words:

I embrace my desire to

I embrace my desire to

Feel the rhythm, to feel connected

Enough to step aside and weep like a widow

To feel inspired

To fathom the power

To witness the beauty

To bathe in the fountain

To swing on the spiral

Swing on the spiral

Of our divinity 

And still be a human

With my feet upon the ground I lose myself

Between the sounds and open wide to suck it in

(He complained about the noise, remember the standing alone in an empty field? The noise is no longer noise, is "sounds" , "words have a meaning once they reach you"

I feel it move across my skin

(He didn't liked to be touched)

I'm reaching up and reaching out

(He is out of the box, or the cage?)

I'm reaching for the random or what ever will bewilder me

What ever will bewilder me

And following our will and wind we may just go where no one's been

We'll ride the spiral to the end and may just go where no one's been

Spiral out, keep going

Translation of all of this? Why I put it at the beginning of the playlist?

Well...

Because of the heavy trauma he received in his early years, Jumin had to rely on rationality and logic to conduct his life (V called him "scientist" and Rika said she wanted for him to find the perfect balance between emotions and logic). Thus ignoring emotions but also his inner intuition, his gut feeling. (Update after the dlc: Now we know the big part his mother also played in this)

Because Jumin's trauma is in direct relation to his body, Jumin tried to distance as far as he could from it and treating it as a machine ("separating the body from the mind"). He mentions how loose clothes make him uncomfortable "because he needs a constant restraint all the time" (if corsets for men were an item you can bet Jumin would wear one)   which leads to his body speaking to him in the way of symptoms: this symptoms are the headaches, the numbness he says he feels in the dlc, the feeling of drowning, etc...

Basically, his body (wether by his emotions, gut feelings or directly through his headaches and mild-amnesia) is desperately trying to talk to him and Jumin is doing everything he can to not listen to it, because he isn't ready for it yet, because these are years and years of unspoken trauma trying to hit him  at once (this is why therapy is important! Guys!) .

So Jumin rationalizes things: he must be having headaches because he ate something bad, or the temperature in the room is below 2 grades, and V must be distant because he is still grieving, not because he is hiding something, not for what Yoosung is telling everyone. And Yoosung is also grieving, so that's why he's acting like this.

And Rika was V's fiance, so he couldn't have feelings for her

All of this changes when he meets MC: first she doesn't treat him as a robot like everybody else, but as person with feelings and with a right to feel and express those feelings, and second and (maybe) more importantly: she doesn't allow him to project his own emotions onto her (as he did with Elizabeth) thus Jumin doesn't have any other option that confront his own emotions, to recognize those feelings as his own… and this scares him to death, but he has to do it if he wants to be with her.

And this, that this battle is for her and for a future with her, is what gives him strength.

Now, onto the song again, Jumin has to listen to his body to do this, he has to decipher what is trying to tell him "Why im feeling like this?" "Why I acted this way". There's another song, also from Tool ("Forty Six & 2") that goes deeper in this process Jumin has to do "I want to know what I've been hiding in my shadow (...) Listen to my muscle memory"

It can't be only raw emotion because that's the bad ending 2 (or he stealing Seven's car), both mind and body had to work together (or to say it in the words of the song, the body can't be keep separated from the mind) for the well being of the person. And if it's in the natural design of things to tend to expansion and growth, why we'll be different? This is to live riding the spiral: self awareness.

"Swing on the spiral

Of our divinity 

And still be a human"

And the best part of all of these? Once this big rock is out the way? 

Now he can allow himself to feel everything! Both the good and the bad, his love for MC, his friendship for the RFA, and by him now being better, he can also be a better, more honest friend to those he loves. And by being more honest, he can now help them to get on their feet again just as MC helped him, and accept help from them . Without fear.

"We'll ride the spiral to the end and may just go where no one's been"

And that's why I love this song and Jumin Han.

.

.

.

.

Note: So this didn't came out as I wanted :/ (that's why I couldn't post it like 1 month ago), but that's kinda of the point of the song I guess? 😅 Certain things can not be explained, only experienced and when you try to dissect them (overanalyzing) they lost something very important in the process. Even the same phenomenon doesn't guarantee the same experience for different individuals... But that's the good thing in the end 😅

How boring life would be if we all experienced the world in the same way...

[incorrectunrulyprincesses]

Underland’s Unruly Princesses: March of the Witch Hunters (aka the crossover) chapter 6

Rosalind III

Of course I was worried about my godmother, but I didn't know if I was ready to see the world above. I'd lived a sheltered life as a princess and was completely content to continue on like that, but seeing as Auntie Winnie was in real trouble, something had to be done.

"Okay, sissy, what's the plan?" I asked once the coast was clear.

Ember pursed her lips for a moment. "Considering that the Alice entered Underland though a rabbit hole, I suggest we find other means of getting above."

"That's all very well, but how are we gonna get out of the castle, especially when we're grounded?"

"Oh, it's not that I am concerned with," she said proudly. "It's what we plan to do once we reach the Above. We are much different than the people from up there."

"Well obviously. They're all weirdos from what I've heard. We'll stand out easily. I say we find the condemned building we saw in our dreams."

For a few seconds I watched as Ember paced. She was biting her bottom lip, as she often did when she was pondering. "I've got it," she chirped. "Before we travel to Aunt Winifred's home, why don't we go and pop in on Aunt Nellie? Surely she could help us with our disguises," she suggested.

"You're right. She used to live Above before she came to work for us so she must know how things work up there." I agreed. "It's settled then. Let us go and see Auntie Nellie."

We walked into the kitchen and found Auntie Nellie chopping up some meat with a huge cleaver. At first she didn't notice us. But Ember went right up to her, and wrapped her arms around her neck in an odd-fashioned hug.

"'Ello, ello, Auntie Nellie," Ember said, mocking Aunt Eleanor's thick accent.

I grinned, hugging Aunt Nellie from behind.

"Oi!" Nellie squeaked. "You girls get off!"

"Sorry Auntie Nellie." I got off. "What are you cooking? Do you need some help?" I loved helping Auntie Nellie in the kitchen. Cooking was kind of therapeutic for me. Aunt

"Auntie Eleanor," Ember said in a deep, seductive tone. "Little Rozzy and I need your help."

Sighing, we watched as Auntie Eleanor plunged the cleaver into a hunk of meat. She wiped the sweat off her forehead with the back of her hand and leaned against the counter.

"What is it this time?" she asked, annoyed.

"We need to go topside to save Auntie Winnie from the witch hunters." I blurted out.

Aunt Eleanor's eyes widened hugely. If she had been sipping a drink, she would have spat it out. "Oi. And what's your Mum think of this?" I didn't answer and looked at my feet.

Ember cleared her throat. "Well, she doesn't really know-"

"-Blimey! Ember, are you kiddin' me?" Aunt Eleanor demanded. "You two are 'bout to just go galumphin' about in the Above, and leave your Mum without the slightest clue?" She began to look extremely confused.

"Well, technically we're grounded until this whole "witch hunter" thing blows over." I explained, using air quotes on the words, "witch hunter."

What with our past of sneaking out to visit Aunt Nellie at her old home in Fleet Street without Mum's knowledge, Aunt Eleanor shook her head in opposition.

"No," she said. "I can't. I can't let you do that to your Mum. If I let you go, and she ever found out, it'd be my head floatin' in that moat."

"You could always come with us. You and Uncle Sweeney know the Above better than anyone around here." I suggested.

Aunt Nellie shook her head. She sighed again. "Absolutely not. Mistuh Todd and I left that life behind us." We both stood quietly as her face twisted in all directions. After a bit, she swiped up her cleaver and gave the meat a good wail. "Oh, all right," she said in defeat. "What kin I do for ya?"

"We need disguises," Ember said flatly. She pulled at a crimson lace on her corset. "Very well can't rough about the Above dressed in royal garb." Ember grasped at the sparkly jewels around her neck, as if she actually cared for material items, which I knew damn well she did not. "Someone may try to steal my jewels," she pouted.

I nervously touched my favorite choker, worried someone might take it too.

"What's in it for me?" Aunt Eleanor asked, challenging Ember.

"Do you forget to whom you are speaking? I am Emberess of Crims, Red Princess of Underland. What I say goes." She slid real close to her. "And I declare that if you help us, I will request your allowance be tripled, and I will gift to you the cottage Mum gave me as a birthday present."

Aunt Nellie smiled. "The one by the sea?"

"Aye, the one by the sea," Ember stated. "Plus. I will assure you have a month's vacation in said cottage. That way you can spend quality time with your Mistuh Todd."

Eyes aglow, Auntie Nellie grabbed hold of me and Ember, and pulled us toward her chambers. "Where are we going? Do you and Uncle Sweeney have kinky toys like Mum does?"

Ember laughed so hard it boomed down the corridor.

Shaking her head, Aunt Nellie giggled.

"What did I say?" I asked. "It's just a question."

Aunt Nellie just shook her head as she grabbed hold of us both, and led us down the corridor to her chambers. Sooner than later Ember and I were perched in front of mirrors as Aunt Nellie presumed to squeeze us into oddly designed Victorian gowns, much like what she adorned, only the corsets were much tighter.

"Auntie Nellie, are you trying to suffocate us?" I asked, as she tightened my laces. I was wearing a red strapless dress with a pink corset. The skirt was trimmed with rosettes and there was an oversized bow in the back. But now Auntie Nellie was squeezing me into a gown that was a dark red, almost like blood, with a black corset over the top of it.

"You kin keep ya jewelry," Aunt Nellie chided. "There be rich folks in the Above that wear shiny things like dat."

"Keep my tiara safe for me," I said, handing over the gold ruby and diamond tiara that matched my necklace. Aunt Nellie took my tiara from me and placed it in a black velvet box, along with Ember's small crown, and slid the box underneath her bed.

I watched intently as Aunt Nellie slid a sheer black gown over Ember's head. She adorned her with a dark red corset. We were exact opposites! I pulled Auntie Nellie into a tight hug. "I'll miss you." I said. "Take care of Mum for us."

"Oi!" Aunt Nellie squeaked. She jumped back from my grasp. She never really was one for affection. "I am gonna pretend I don't know a thing 'bout where you went. I'm goin' back to my meat pies, and that's where I'll stay." I watched as she bade Ember fairfarren and then stalked from the room.

"So, sis. How are we going to get out of here? Mum probably has armed guards surrounding the castle to keep us in."

Ember was in the mirror, adjusting her gown to fit comfortbaly. "I was thinking we'd wait till nightfall," she said. "We can climb out the window, and slip the guards. I think we should go see my father. He can help us get Above."

"Your father has a problem with me, remember?" I sighed. "He thinks I'm too much like Mum. I don't think he'd be too willing to help."

Ember scoffed. "Of course he will, Ros, don't be silly. He will do anything he can to get back at Mum for holding his family captive for all those years."

"That's true." I thought aloud. "When are we going?"

She turned to me. "As soon as the dark falls over Underland, we're outta here. We'll grab our horses and ride hard to my Father's house."

"The only thing left to do now is go to dinner with Mum and pretend everything is normal."

"I suppose it won't hurt to make one final appearance before we up and disappear," Ember said.

"Let's go then." I said.

Ember looped arms with me and we began to skip from Aunt Nellie's chamber.

[waywardscorpio]

His Queen & Her King!: WARNINGS And Intro!!

Jeff Hardy X Reader, Fanfiction. ABO Dynamics, smut and fluff

Y/N and Jeff, have been best friends since Y/N, started the company. Jeff and Y/N, won't admit they have very strong feelings for the other. Jeff gets jealous when he sees her with others, and Y/N gets jealous when she sees him with others. Y/N is a omega human, and Jeff is a very strong alpha vampire. Some people think that vampires and human don't get along when in fact they can. What none of the roaster knows is when Y/N and Jeff are alone she let's him feed off her. The six hundred years that Jeff has been alive he didn't find his mate. But that soon all changes one night when Y/N is dancing and grinding with another man that isn't him. Y/N is Jeff's soulbond and Jeff is Y/N's soulbond. They both have a tattoo like birthmark on their chest on the left side over their hearts. Y/N's birthmark is a vampire with his mouth open ready to bite and underneath it, it says Back Off She's My Human. Jeff's is a girl with her head tilted to the side ready to be bitten and underneath it, it says I'll Stand By My Vampire. All hell is gonna break loose when Edge and Christian come back to Raw with Lita.

Tag list: @scuzmunkie @phoenixoffiretwo @luna-obscura @braunstrowmangirl @callmekda

WARNINGS:

Preferably 18+. Read at your own risk.

There will be SMUT. I will be putting * for SMUTT, a + for FLUFF and +* for FLUFF and SMUT.

Mating

Knotting

Multiple Mates

Pregnancy

Cussing

Fighting

Fluff

Smutt

Sad parts

Arguing

Jealousy

If there are any additional warnings I will add them to the description.

Introduction:

*Third Person P.O.V.*

Jeff walks into Stephanie's office. "Hey. What's up?" He asks pushing his hair back. "We have some news. Christian and Edge are coming back with Lita. They're going after the tag titles." She said. Jeff looks at her as if she shot his dog. "What?! Why are they coming back to Raw and mine and Matt's titles.?" Jeffs angry now. "They signed a contract to come back. I know this isn't what you wanted to hear. The match is gonna be TLC. So, you and Matt will have the advantage. Y/N, will accompany you and your brother to the ring and Lita will accompany Christian and Edge to the ring. If either interferes they will be thrown out." She said. "Okay. Fair enough. Is that all?" He asks. "Yes. Remember if Y/N interferes she will have to be thrown out." She said. Jeff nods and walks out.

As the match went on Lita, jumped on the apron and smacks, Matt in the face. Jeff had to make Y/N stay out of it so, she didn't get thrown out. Lita was thrown out. Edge had his back turned to Matt, who gains the upper hand and pins him to the count of three. "And your winners are Jeff and Matt Hardy accompanied by Y/N." Vivian announces. Jeff smiles at Y/N and hugs his brother. "My good luck charm." Jeff said to Y/N once they were alone. She giggles biting her lip. "Darlin' don't do that. You know what biting your lip does to me." Jeff said with a sly grin on his lips. Y/N just giggles batting her eyes at him "Do what Jeff?" She said biting her lip again and slowly letting it go. Jeff growls warningly. "Baby Doll, don't do that." He says throw gritted teeth his lips merely inces away from her ear. "Or what, Puddin'? You gonna spank me?" She hums well more like softly moans at the words she just said. Jeff smirks and walks away. Y/N whines and pouts. She goes after him. "Puddin'?" She says to Jeff as she grabs his arm with hers and walks with him. "Yes, Baby Doll?" He said to her. Dolph walks past them and smacks Y/N on the ass "hey sexy. If you ever want a real man let me know." Jeff comes to a holt in his tracks, as he swiftly turns around punching dolph in the nose. "Touch her like that again and I'll break your fucking neck." Jeff warned and grabs Y/N's hand and pulls her with him. Y/N tries keeping up with him ignoring the yells from Dolph and the stares from others. "Jeff sl-slow down. I'm human. Puddin' slow down." She says to the much taller guy. He stops when he gets to his locker room and pulls her in and locks the door behind them. He pins her to the wall looking her in the eyes. "Jeff you're scaring me. What's wrong?" She said softly looking at him. "Whats wrong? Dolph touching you is what's wrong. No, one touches my girl." Even though they're not together Jeff always has laid claimed to Y/N. "Jeff I'm not into Dolph. He's not my type." Y/N said to him.

"Who is your type?" He asks her. Before she could answer Stephanie knocks on the door. "Guys time to leave. We're all going out." She said. Jeff opens the door and walks out Y/N follows behind him. "I'll ride with Stephanie." Y/N said. Jeff only nods "I'll ride with Triple H." He said. Jeff gets in Triple H's car as Y/N got in with Steph.

Y/N sighs a little. "Momma can I ask you something?" Since they're outside the building and out of the work place Y/N calls her mom now instead of her name. Stephanie and Triple are Y/N's parents. "Yes, Doll. What's wrong?" She asks as she drives. "Before you and Papa got together how did you know he was the one you wanted as your mate?" She asks her mom.

((Ohhhh plot twist. Hehehe I'm not sorry. Okay don't kill me guys and girls.))

"Well honey. When you find yourself thinking about them all the time, you can't stand seeing others near them, you find it hard to go a day without talking to them, no matter how mad you may get with them or even scared sometimes of them you know they'll never intentionally hurt you." She said. "What if he is alot older then you and not human?" She was 25 years old but she is still a curious women about things shes not sure off. Steph smiles softly "Baby Girl, what has Momma and Papa always told you if you ever found a mate?" She asks. "That if you love someone age won't matter, height, color, race, sexuality ect." Y/N repeated her parents exact words. "Then Baby Girl, if you love this man, then when the time is right you'll say the saying he has had since birth." She said. But oh Steph and Y/N didn't know was that right moment was gonna be very soon.

Jeff got dressed in a tight black button up shirt, black jeans and pair of steal toe shoes, with his hair pulled back. Jeff made it to the bar. Y/N was wearing a mid thigh mini skirt and a little bit of a low cut corset top, with a pair of four inch heels, and her make up was done and her hair was down. Steph smiles proudly at her daughter knowing what she is gonna do because she did the same to get Triple H jealous enough to see if he was her mate. "Okay I'm ready." Y/N said and grabs her clutch bag. Steph nods and grabs her clutch bag as well and they head out the hotel.

Y/N walks into the club with Steph. She walks to the bar to and orders Coca cola mixed with three shots Jack Daniel's. She knew the only way to loosen up was to get a little liquid courage in her system. "You're your Papa made over." Stephanie said to her daughter. "I know." Y/N says as she started drinking her Jack and Coke. After she finished the drink she slowly started feeling the affects of the liquor. "Hey Randy. Would you mind dancing with me?" Y/N asks Randy Orton. He looks her up and down for a mere millisecond and stood up taking her hand and went to the dance floor. Randy pulls her close and started dancing with her. Y/N hums as her hands went up and around his neck while she ground her pelvis on his. Y/N could feel Jeff burning stare through her body. She turns and presses her back on Randy's front. He groaned in her ear and began to kiss and nip on her neck causing her to moan at the feeling. She didn't see the multiple color haired man walk over, with the look of murder in his now dark green eyes. Y/N squeals when Jeff pulls her away from, Randy and punches him square in the jaw. Randy stumbled back. "What the hell, Jeff?" Randy said getting in his face. "Back Off She's My Human." Jeff said in a dead serious tone. Randy smirks "She is not mated so, she is fair game. She doesn't seem to be yours." Jeff snarls at him his fangs extending. Y/N bit her lip to keep from giggling as she tugged Jeff back. Her body tingled with desire as her birthmark glows a reddish black color. "I'll Stand By My Vampire." She said to Randy. Y/N, always chooses Jeff, over anyone. Jeff's birthmark started tingling and he turns to Randy ignoring him. Jeff's body was burning with desire for Y/N.

Y/N and Jeff paid their tabs and said their goodbyes for the night, as Jeff threw her over his shoulder and left to the hotel. Once inside the hotel Jeff, set her down inside the elevator. She bit her lip looking at him "stop biting that lip, Baby Girl" he said to her. "Why?" She asks. "Because you're causing me to get hard and we're not in the hotel room yet." He said. Y/N giggles biting her lip again. Once in the hotel room the door shut with a loud slam as Jeff had her pinned against the door kissing her hard and deep with passion. Y/N moans into his mouth. Once Y/N and Jeff pull away for air he looks at her "If you want me to stop tell me, because once my control is gone, I won't be able to stop." He said to her panting

"I want this. I want you. It's only ever been you that I want." Y/N pants softly. "I only danced with Randy, to make you jealous. I didn't know he would say anything." She adds. Jeff looks at her and kisses her hard. "Its always been you. Always will be you, Baby Girl." Jeff said after pulling away from the kiss.

After three rounds on the bed and two rounds in the shower Y/N, was sure she would be sore in the morning time.

[im-actually-ok]

A Halloween to be Remembered

Word Count: 1048 words

Fandom: Be More Chill

Ships: Jeremy X Christine, Micheal X Rich

Warnings: Very small mention of a kiss, burn scar mention,(Let me know if I missed anything)

This fic is for the Be More Chill Quarantine Challenge run by @bmc-gift-exchange and the prompt for this fic is this picture.

I hope you enjoy!

_____

“I-I'm not sure about this,” I gazed at myself in the mirror, the flowy red material of the cloak covering the off white dress underneath, reaching down to my ankles. I flipped the hood off my head and turned from the mirror, walking away, “Nope, nope I can't do this!”

I flopped down on the bright pink beanbag in Christine’s room facing away from my reflection, too embarrassed to even want to see myself. I bury my face in my hands, but then feel a hand on my shoulder. I look to see Christine kneeling next to me, “Hey, it's ok if you don't feel comfortable in this. But you should know that you look beautiful,” She spoke softly and smiled at me.

“You, you really think so?” I grip the cloak, “You really think I look beautiful?”

She laughed, “Of course I do! And I can think of someone else who would think the same.”  I could feel my face heat up at the thought of him seeing me in this. Micheal and I have been dating for five months now, though I had been head over heels for him since last Halloween, “You think Micheal will like it?”


“He’ll love it, Rich.”

I put my head in my hands once more and groan, that makes Christine giggle. I've never worn a dress before. Well, let me rephrase that. I've never worn a dress in public before. I wear dresses all the time, that is, in the privacy of my locked room. Even before I found out I was Bi, I've just always loved wearing dresses and skirts. I never knew why because I've always known that I'm male, so why did I like girl clothes!? I just decided to never tell anyone.

Then, a couple of weeks ago, I mentioned to Jeremy that I wanted to have an extra special costume for Halloween this year. That's when Jeremy suggested that his girlfriend, Christine, could help me because she was great with costumes. 

So here we are.

I took a deep breath and looked to Christine, “This is ridiculous.” She rolled her eyes and grabbed my hands to pull me up off of the beanbag, “Of course it's ridiculous, It's a Halloween costume, now c’mon, Jeremy is waiting for us outside.”

She pulled the door open and basically flew down the stairs. I followed behind her, slowly. I could hear her open the door and Jeremy say, “Christine, wow, you look, beautiful.”

Christine laughed and I could hear the blush in her voice when she replied, “Thanks.”

Christine was wearing a dark red medieval style dress with a corset in the back. Her hair was done up in braids with flowers braided in. She really did look beautiful.

Jeremy was dressed as a prince to match Christine, his hair was slicked back and he wore a tunic with black jeans and a belt. His costume wasn't as elaborate or factual as Christine’s, but let's be honest, who’s was?

“Hey, wheres Rich?” Jeremy asked and my heart started pounding. I know that Jeremy Is who I should be least worried about. He would never make fun of me unless he was kidding. I can trust him. So why am I so scared?

“He was right behind me,” Christine walked back up the stair and turned to the hallway where I was hiding, “Rich, It's ok, Jeremy won't judge you, you're safe here.”

I sighed and nodded. Christine joined Jeremy at the bottom of the stairs once again and I called out, “Just -- Just don't make fun of me -- ok?”

I turned the corner and walked down the stairs, looking everywhere but at Jeremy. At the bottom, I finally looked up at him. He smiled and gave me a thumbs up, “You look great man.”

I blushed and smiled, “Thanks.”

Christine beamed then grabbed both of our hands and dragged us out the door to Jeremy’s car, “Come on guys! We’ve got a party to go to!”

After the, um, accident at the Halloween party last year, the school decided to host a Halloween dance to keep students safe. We probably would have gone to someone else’s party instead, but, big surprise, no one wanted me at there party. As if I'm not already constantly reminded of how I messed up by the burn scars covering my body. Anyway, we were supposed to meet Micheal outside the school for the dance. 

We pulled up outside the school and I can see Micheal standing there, looking down at his watch probably wondering where we are. He’s wearing blue jeans and a black shirt that said in bold white writing “ERROR 404: COSTUME NOT FOUND”. What a dork. 

Jeremy and Christine climb out of the car, but once again, I stay. I watch as Micheal high fives Jeremy and greets Christine. I watch as Micheal makes some inappropriate joke into Jeremy’s ear, it's probably something about Christine because I see a slight blush come to her face. She laughs and takes Jeremy’s arm.  

The plan is that Christine and Jeremy are supposed to go in first and tell Micheal that I'll be out of the car in a minute. Then, once they are in, I'll check to make sure the coast is clear, then walk over to Micheal. 

So far so good as Jeremy, still linked to Christine, says something to Micheal. He looks confused, but Jeremy just laughs then leads Christine inside. 

This is it. I take in a deep breath as I open the car door and step out onto the pavement. The only thing between Micheal and me now is the car and the walk across the road to him. There’s no going back now.  

I round the car and walk over to him. His eyes widen and a soft red blush falls over his face.

“Um, hi,” I say softly, looking up at him.

“H-hi,” his mouth gapes slightly and then he smiles, “You look -- amazing, I-I don't know what to say.”

My face is probably as red as my cloak now, “You don't have to say anything, just kiss me.”

He laughed and gazed down at me, “I’d like that.”

He leans down and I go on my toes to meet him halfway.

Best. Halloween. Ever.

_____

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed it!

[katedrakeohd]

A Choices: The Royal Masquerade Fanfiction

Pairings :(MC) Julia Aster x Renza Fierro,

Julia Aster x Kaydan Vescovi

Author's Note: As I transferred this story from writen page to digital it occurred to me just how long it was becoming so I've had to break it up into several parts.

...........................

Part One:

A State of Undress

The morning is sunny and warm on the day of our cruise on the Fierro yacht. I’m standing outside in my courtyard with my steward Vasco waiting for Renza’s carriage to come pick me up. As I smooth my hands down over my corset and skirts for the hundredth time, Vasco notices my nervousness and smiles.

“I suppose this will be your first time on a sailing ship M’lady,” he says.

“Yes, it will.” I nod.

“I’ve heard that Lord Hector is a very honourable man. Are you anxious to meet him?”

To tell the truth I’ve barely thought of him at all today. And it’s not Hector or the boat trip that have me feeling anxious. Since we’ll be with the Fierros, that means Kaydan the Crown Shield will be around too. And these days he has occupied my thoughts more than anything.

“I’m hoping Lord Hector isn’t as dull and strange as Lord Emery is. Such a disaster that dinner was. If it weren’t for Henry rescuing me with a new plate of dinner after Cyrus and Emery left the table I would have starved to death.”

My pet wolf cub Astro scampers around the courtyard threatening to trample the flowers. His antics have stolen Vasco’s attention and my comments go unanswered. I shrug and go back to my own thoughts.

Ever since I met Kaydan Vescovi the night of the masquerade, I haven't been able to get him off my mind. Just being around him with his dark eyes, wavy black hair and strong muscled physique is enough to make even the most sober person feel a little intoxicated. When he smiles at you and gives you his full attention it's like nothing else matters. I consider myself a lucky woman to have had the chance to spend so much time with him these past few weeks. As the Crown Shield wherever King-regent Henry Fierro goes, Kaydan isn't far behind. Between both handsome men being around lately it's like receiving two beautiful presents for your birthday when you're only expecting one.

During the joust when Kaydan and Henry both sought my favor, it was such a thrill. But when the swords came out after they had both been knocked off their horses, I realized that the rivalry goes much deeper. Fortunately the duel ended without anyone getting seriously injured. I know they're friends and I would hate to see them ruin that because of me. But still I must admit seeing Kaydan win was exciting.

In the stables after the joust Kaydan told me that it had been fun to fight Henry in front of the crowd. Being able to knock his half-brother Cyrus down a peg anonymously as the Black Knight had also been satisfying for him. His victory takes the title of Champion of the Tournament of Flowers out of noble hands. I enjoyed cheering with the other spectators, even if I was the only one hoping for Kaydan to win.

Henry is all sunshine, winks and flirty smiles. There's no wonder all the single ladies at court clamor for his attention. There's no mystery to him and he wears his heart on his sleeve. He radiates a perfect example of wealth and privilege. When I'm around him I’m polite and friendly. He's given me no reason to doubt his intentions as Crown Regent are genuine. But for me all I feel is loyalty not affection.

Kaydan is all long looks, secret smiles and quiet respect. Although he was born of nobility, he's not considered one of them. He's accepted his place as the bastard son and chose a life of hardship and responsibility in the guard.

Henry may have his name and noble house to hold him up, but it's Kaydan's humble strength and sense of duty that protects him. I admire Kaydan for that, although he won't accept the title of hero no matter how often he's earned it. There's more to Kaydan than his imposing presence. I'm drawn to him in a way that goes beyond the physical, and I’m determined to know him better.

He's worked his way up through the ranks to become Crown Shield, and earned the respect of many along the way. I've sought out his expertise in matters of security, and he's always seemed pleased to have my company. Sometimes when we're alone we comfortably lapse into conversation and he lets down his guard a bit.

In the short time we've known each other we've developed a mutual respect and kinship. When we're alone I'm just Julia the scribe, and he's just Kaydan the black sheep and we're comfortable with that.

I hear Renza's carriage approaching and take a deep breath to prepare myself to be in her company. She's as brash and confident as her brother is charming and sweet. I never know what she's going to say or do when we're together.

Vasco steps forward to open the door of the carriage for me, “Are you entirely sure you don't want me to travel with you your Ladyship? There's room for one more in the carriage.”

As I take his offered hand to assist me up into the carriage, I smile and shake my head. “I'll be fine with Renza. Please make sure that Astro is fed and properly put away for me, and then join us at the marina later for the trip.”

Vasco nods, bowing to me, “As you wish.”

Tucking my skirts around my legs I settle down on the seat opposite Renza. Once Vasco has closed the door behind me, Renza looks me over critically from head to toe and then shrugs.

“Well good morning to you too,” I jest.

“My dear Julia, please tell me you don't expect to impress Lord Hector wearing that?”

I can't help but take offense to her remark since I am wearing a gown in the rich tones of blue and gold that represent my noble house. The House of Aster. I’m not sure if her jab is an intentional insult to my house or my sense of style, so I try my stoic best to deflect it as irrelevant.

“Honestly Renza. If I must marry someone for the sake of politics, what does it matter what pretty wrapper I am presented in?”

It's not like I'm that excited to be offered up to Hector as some sort of trophy wife.

“You may say that now, but you don't need to sound so bored and dismissive about the prospect of a match.”

“I'm sorry, I don't mean to sound that way. I'm just distracted. My poor sister has still not awakened, and suddenly becoming the head of my household is overwhelming. I've barely had the chance to figure out what that even means, and now I am expected to marry myself to a total stranger to support the Crown. Whatever happened to falling in love and getting married. That's what I really wish I could do.”

Renza laughs, “Oh you're such a Romantic. Don’t forget that you're a noble now. Marriage for nobles is a contract with obligations, land titles and bank accounts. Romance is for affairs outside of marriage. Why are you so hung up on love and romance anyway? Is there someone you've had your eye on?”

“I…well. I don't want to say. That's between him and I.” I can feel myself blushing.

“Ok fine, but I'll find out one way or the other. I bet a little wine will get you talking.”

Before I can turn her down, Renza has already opened a bottle of red wine and poured me some. It's still morning but apparently Renza feels that drinking wine is appropriate for all hours of the day.

When the carriage turns off of the main road and onto her Manor's private lane one of the wheels bounces over a rock. I gasp in surprise as the wine in my goblet splashes over the front of my dress.

“Oh no! This is a disaster.” I cry.

Renza produces a handkerchief out of the bodice of her gown and offers it to dab at the wine stains.

“Well that's a shame. But look at it this way. Now I’ll have the excuse to put you in a dress suitable to impress the pants off Hector and your secret lover.”

I hand her back her handkerchief, shaking my head. “We're hardly lovers.”

“Not yet. You may have been able to charm the minds of men at court so far with your cleverness and wit. But leave it to me and your looks will charm the rest of their…parts.”

I roll my eyes, “Oh please Renza I’ve already gotten my fill of Cyrus and his brand of sleazy charm. I don't want all the men at court to start talking to me that way. I implore you to at least keep some shred of my dignity intact.”

As the carriage comes to a stop, I look out of the window and marvel at the grandeur of the Fierro Estate. Renza escorts me to the dressing room attached to her bedroom to get changed. The opulent furnishings of even this room put most of what I have back home to shame.

Renza wastes no time in helping me get out of my dress. As I stand in my underclothes she gives me another critical inspection and I feel myself blush.

“H..happy now?” I stammer.

Renza's surprised expression takes me off guard, “More like impressed! With a body like that you could make a bedsheet look alluring. I'm almost tempted to send you out like this.”

Crossing my arms across my chest I frown at her, “Renza, seriously. Focus.”

She gives me another critical inspection, making me feel even more uncomfortable.

“Natural beauty aside, whoever tied this corset isn't doing you any favors. Here let me fix it for you.”

I back away, holding up my hands. "No, no. Leave it alone. I like being able to breathe thanks.”

She sighs and then steps away from me again. “As you wish.”

I'm still standing in just my underwear as she continues to talk.

“So are you curious about meeting Hector at all?”

“I'm mostly curious about what kind of person he is.”

“Well professionally all that I can tell you is that he is a trade expert hired by the merchants across Cordonia to help improve their business.”

I try to sound interested, “So he's …business minded.”

Renza scoffs, “Well when you say it that way it makes him sound stuffy. Lord Hector sails the world and visits all sorts of interesting places. Imagine the fascinating stories he could tell."

I nod, "Well then I guess he doesn't sound so stuffy after all."

Renza smiles, looking relieved "Good now let's get you dressed. Stay here while I fetch you something to wear."

She gives me a wink and then leaves me alone. I feel self conscious, exposed and plain in such a fancy room. When I hear the door open suddenly I turn around expecting Renza. But instead it's Kaydan!

"Lady Renza, I found the --... "

He stops short and his eyes go wide when he sees me, "Julia!"

I feel myself blush to the roots of my hair, but as shocking as it is for him to see me in my underwear, I can't help but feel a rush of excitement too. My heart is pounding like crazy in my chest, but I flash him my bravest smile and place my hands on my hips and ask, "Looking for something?"

He's still standing there rooted to the spot and gaping. "I..I wasn't expecting -- .."

"Hmm?" I smirk at him, stepping closer.

He clumsily shuffles backward, trying to avert his eyes from seeing so much of my bare skin.

Renza re-enters the room and gasps, "Crown Shield, what in the world do you think you're doing?"

"But..but.." he stammers, looking at us both.

"Out, out, out! Now!" she shrieks.

He quickly shields his eyes and mumbles his apologies as she pushes him out of the room and closes the door.

"The nerve!" she exhales with relief.

Biting my lip and trying to hide my grin, I giggle. "I hope that he enjoyed that as much as I did."

Her mouth drops open and her eyes sparkle with amusement as she laughs, "Lady Julia Aster, you saucy minx!"

"What? Accidents happen. Besides he knows this is your room so I could ask you questions too."

Renza brushes off my remark and raises her chin giving a haughty retort, "Well this is my house after all. Quit avoiding the issue. Out with it, you like him don't you. And here I thought it might be Henry."

Breathing a sigh of resignation I admit it, "Yes, Kaydan is who I'm interested in. Please don't tell anyone. I know he's not noble."

Renza laughs, "True, he wouldn't improve your social standing as a match, but he's definitely an impressive piece of man to have on the side. If you're saying there's more to him than what's on the surface then I must say congratulations to you both."

I open my mouth to protest that Kaydan is more than just a side piece, but then decide to change the subject. "If I'm to impress Kaydan or Hector today you better give me something to wear."

Renza blinks, remembering the gown she has in her arms. "Of course, where was I?" she hands me the dress. "You're sure to grab attention in this."

As she lays the shimmering blue and white silky and sheer fabric in my arms I am amazed at how light and airy it feels. It's surely worth more than my entire wardrobe.

I stammer as I thank her, "Are..you sure about this? Have you nothing more plain or modest?"

"No, no I insist. Consider it my engagement gift to you. It never fit me properly anyway. Hector won't be able to take his eyes from you."

Or Kaydan either, I thought to myself.

I nod gratefully and step into the dress, "Well thank-you, could you help me fasten the lacing in the back?"

Renza smiles as I turn around. She adjusts and ties the satin lacing a little tighter than necessary, and I find it difficult to breathe. Is she jealous that the dress fits me better, or is she feeling spiteful and wanted Kaydan for herself?

As I turn back around and catch sight of myself in the mirror I can't help but smile.

Behind me I catch Renza's expression and she looks annoyed as she says, "Alright then now that you're wearing a properly fitting garment, let's be off, the carriages await."

...

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[budugaapologist]

brocean outfits analysis

i quite like the differences between edward and adéwalé's clothing styles, like theyre both the carribbean pirate assassins but they actually have personalities like the frye twins' outfits, so im gonna ramble about them, feel free to keep scrolling.

the first outfits we see them in (not comparing their true og outfits because uh??? edward's corset vs adé's still a slave in chains and lowrise pants???), edward just has a mostly open leather vest to match his boots and some off-white pants held up by a red plaid sash, with a bandana around his forehead, which is a really minimalist look and likely quite comfy when he isnt drenched in sweat and sea water, like the athleisure of the time. adé has a decorated green/gold vest with a very low cut shirt underneath. he still has the red sash and a bandana but his pants are striped and purple (colorblocking and pattern mixing KING), his boots are much shorter, and he's wearing much more jewelry (his rings, earrings, bracelets, and golden necklace [i think it may be a locket] vs edward's collection of teeth). adé also has far more belts than edward in this look, and has a much more wealthy appearance, even seen in their red sashes theres a difference in the cost, edward's faded stripes far less outstanding than adé's richer red color and more complicated pattern, which appears more classy (his pattern really resembles those on evie, aveline, and elise's dresses):

edward altered his blue assassin's cloak by adding more leather armor to it, a far less minimalist outfit than his first, but adéwalé altered his black cloak by taking off the sleeves and letting his titties breathe, it's like he said "no, thanks, i will take the sexy armor." they both don't have bandanas in their assassin outfits unlike their pirate looks, and they have the same tail shape to their cloaks (despite walpole's cloak not having that shape?). neither of them conceal their weapons in this outfit, contrary to many of the other assassins, instead putting them on display, though adéwalé's cloak seems far less heavy and he likely makes less noise than edward's clunky weapons everywhere, so he doesnt need as much armor because he is less likely to get caught, not to mention it is much easier on the eyes than edward's pirate hobo robes.

lastly, their stripper alter egos diving pants. edward changes his hairstyle to a bun when he is swimming since his hair is less likely to come loose like that than when its a pony tail, something adé doesnt need to worry about lmao. but, for some sexy reason, edward has high waisted pants that are very tight, like if you can't tell how big his dick is at this point? play the game with your eyes open maybe. adéwalé though went for a less flashy outfit, in great contrast to his first look, just with lowrise pants that are not tight at all, hence why he has to tie the leg holes down when swimming and edward doesnt:

regardless, i think adé has a better fashion sense than edward and he may very well be one of the top best dressed assassins with edward being somewhere in the middle, which really fits the differences in their personalities, as edward is a messy and brash guy while adéwalé is scholarly and speaks eloquently (and three languages fluently but who's counting), a trend you can see continued with the twins.

anywho, i fully support bastienne spending most of freedom cry trying to fuck adé, he really does look like he has his shit together, especially next to edward.