#you guys are always welcome to leave little 'gifts' in my ask box to hahaha

[polarisbibliotheque]

Greetings! This is not a request, not even a suggestion, but a gift (?) in form of sharing a poem. I still think with pleasure and gratitude of your Vergil fics, my mind immediately went there when I was re-reading Shakespeare's Sonnet 87. Here it is, an open door to angst: "Farewell! thou art too dear for my possessing, And like enough thou know’st thy estimate. The charter of thy worth gives thee releasing; My bonds in thee are all determinate. For how do I hold thee but by thy granting, And for that riches where is my deserving? The cause of this fair gift in me is wanting, And so my patent back again is swerving. Thy self thou gav’st, thy own worth then not knowing, Or me, to whom thou gav’st it, else mistaking; So thy great gift, upon misprision growing, Comes home again, on better judgment making. Thus have I had thee as a dream doth flatter, In sleep a king, but waking no such matter." ^ this, this all haunts me. goodbye fksjdfgfdg

Look. I dunno if I'm crying because this is too beautiful or the fact that you read some Shakespeare and remembered of lil' ol' me and my writings - and then SENT ME A SONET AS A GIFT.

This is one of the most beautiful and heartwarming things someone has ever done for me. There are no words to express how thankful I am and for how flattered I feel for all this.

At the end of the day, I write for myself but also for everyone else who can find some solace in these words. Thank you, really.

Now, for that sonet, I hadn't read it before! I'm not from an English speaking country, so we don't really study Shakespeare and sonets and such - it's mostly a hobby for me, so I'm delighted to get to know something new ^^

Aaaaaand it's Vergil all over. Angsty, thinking he is undeserving of the person giving him love, releasing them from the shackles of staying with him (he's dumb 'cause he doesn't realize it isn't a shackle though - or, if it is, it's something his s/o chose willingly - cue in Arwen and the "I choose a mortal life" bit).

Now, now. I do think his s/o would answer with something along the lines of:

"Take this kiss upon the brow! And in parting from you now, Thus much let me avow - You are not wrong, who deem That my days have been a dream; Yet if hope has flown away In a night, or in a day, In a vision, or in none, Is it therefore the less gone? All that we see or seem Is but a dream within a dream." (Edgar Allan Poe, A Dream Within a Dream)

And go sort of "if we can't know where a dream ends and reality starts, and all is a dream within a dream, then it makes no difference if I decide to be with you, even if you deem yourself unworthy, for like hope, is it less gone if we are in a dream or in reality?" or something like that. Just a little possible interaction to haunt us between Vergil and his s/o ;)

Once again, thank you so SO much. You are too kind and I'm lucky to have you around, reading my works and appreciating my words. I hope to keep seeing you in the bibliothéque, you're always welcome <3

[pixigirl]

Is Ladybug finally falling in love with her prince, who can tell?

summary and notes

A miraculous ladybug one shot. This is a typed of version of an amazing role play I was part of in the Tumblr chat called Miraculous Ladybug. Owner: @fleur-de-jasmin-fdj

People who participated in the role play are myself @pixigirl,@janani and  @fleur-de-jasmin-fdj

CN= Chat Noir

LB= Ladybug

RR= Rena Rouge

(Patrol Night)

LB: hello Chat

CN: M’lady

LB: guess what? I brought passionfruit macaroons, your favourite.

CN: You know me so well. Come sit *pats the ground next to him*

LB: Of course I know you, you are my partner after all. *sits down and gives him the box of macaroons*

CN: a whole box, yum.

LB: Don’t forget to share

CN: Haha never!

LB: kittyyyyyyyyyyyyy I want some too ya know

UUhhhhhh fine

Thanks *grabs a macaroon*

*starts humming the tune from chat blanc*

*drops macaroon*

Everything alright bugaboo?

*staring at Montparnasse tower*

Y-yeah. Why do you ask, everything is fine… great even

Bug you dropped your macaroon

I did? Oh yeah there it is *she says as she stares at the broken macaroon on the ground*

*Chat stares at her*

*finally notices he is staring*

Chat?

Your eyes are beautiful

T-thanks

Your eyes are beautiful too. I like that they are green and not blue… I mean they are always green

Umm thanks m’lady

Your welcome kitty *scratches behind ear*

What?!

Your cute is all

No, you are

No, you are

Aww thanks

Your welcome chaton. So how was your day?

Better now I've seen you

Your such a flirt

No, I'm not. I'm chivalrous

Are you sure

Positively

*laughs* Why are you so adorable

It’s a gift

*rolls her eyes* Well it’s a lovely gift

Awww *grinning*

*thinking: why is he so cute when he smiles*

*blushes*

Umm, have you finished your macaroon?

Yes, I did. Delicious as always.

Glad you're liked them

I like you… I mean what?

I like you too… umm, race you to the Eiffel tower. Ha

*LB beat CN to the tower*

You're beautiful

*blushes*

Your beautiful too.

Oh, I forgot Rena will be joining us tonight I asked her to meet us here.

You should save some macaroons for her

Too late *shoves remaining macaroons in his mouth*

Chat!

RR: Hey guys.

Hehe

*slaps chat’s arm* Hey Rena

You're still cute

*blushes*

Ewww you two. Chat your such a flirt

I know right!

Hey!

*sees LB blushing*

What, It's true.

Fine then

How was your day Rena?

Pretty good thanks.

That’s great. So glad you could come today and Chat is very sorry for eating the macaroons. Aren’t you chat *nudge*

Yeah sorry *cute pouty face*

That’s okay. I’m sure he was a very hungry kitty.

*Why is he so cute when he pouts LB thinks*

The view from up here is beautiful

You're my best view

*smirks at the lame joke*

*LB blushing so hard she looks like a tomato*

Am I interrupting something???

NOOOOOOOOO

Oh really?

Really. There’s nothing to interrupt *still blushing*

Ok then whatever you say

*glares at Rena*

Your so cute when you're angry

I am not *nudges his shoulder*

Why did you give me that look?

You know why

*turns her face*

Hahaha

What’s so funny

Your face is still red

What! My face is not red

Yesssssss it is

*glares* no it is not humph

You know what?

What is it?

I'm outta here. I’m gonna leave you two love birds alone

*blushes* B-but

Thanks, Rena

*slaps CN*

…a few moments later…

I have something I need to tell you bugaboo

What’s up kitty?

*grabs both her hands*

C-Chat?

Yes?

You wanted to tell me something

Oh yeah sorry sometimes I just get lost in your eyes

*blushes* I get lost in your eyes too occasionally

I think… I think I love you….r macaroons. *CN thoughts: Aww man that was so dumb Adrien. Seriously man up and do it already*

*disappointed* thanks

What’s wrong?

Nothing. Why do you think something is wrong

You just seem a little disappointed

*why does he always know what I’m thinking*

It's not important *fake smile*

Everything is important when it comes to you. Come on say something.

Buts its nothing you should worry yourself about. You know what… *pecks him on the lips and runs away immediately because she doesn’t want to admit that she loves him – she goes and hides in an alley and fumble as she gets out her communicator to call Rena*

*shocked but tries to follow her – he is unsure where she went but knows at least what direction*

 Hello?

Reeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeennnnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!! Help me. I’m in love with chat noir

I knew it!

*from a distance chat hears her talking and edges closer because he doesn’t want her to know he is listening*

I kissed him and an away so I'm now hiding behind a dumpster in a random alleyway. What do I do!?

*RR is dancing because all her dreams have come true*

Rena be serious, I need help. He’s going to hate me because I ran away and he’s trying to find me right now. OH no, what if he does hate me then I’ll never be able to have three kids and a hamster. Noooooooooo

Just tell him the truth. I’m sure he loves you back

Ok ok. I can do that. Thanks, RR for everything. Bug out * hangs up*

*comes out of the blue* I love you too mlady

*jumps high* aaaaaaaahhhhh

*CN catches her when she comes back down*

Chat you scared me! Wait more important: you heard me!!!!!!!

*Holding her in his arms* Every word

*blushes* I love you too chaton, but are you sure?

Ladybug I have loved you since the day I saw you. I love you more than anyone in the world. You are the yin to my yang. My everything. I would die for you, I mean I almost have, quite a few times actually.

*blushes redder than a tomato* I love you too chat noir. You have a heart made of gold, you make me feel special. You make me happy.

*puts ladybug down and kneels on one knee* Ladybug, bugaboo, will you be my girlfriend?

I would love to. *jumps on him*

*kisses each other*

Kitty?

Yes, bug?

I want to know who you are so we can go on real dates and introduce you to my family and friends. I would like to meet yours too.

You DO NOT want to meet mine

Yes, I do. They can’t be any worse than Gabriel Agreste.

Claws in *destrasform* Yes they can, because he is.

Adrien!

Umm surprise

*Kisses him*

Wait who are you?

Oh yeah. Spots off

Marinette!

Y-yeah

Nothing. I just couldn’t imagine anyone better behind the mask *kiss*

*blushes and embraces*

Umm you know when I rejected Chat Noir, I did it because I was in love with Adrien.

What?!

So I rejected you for you

Haha I am pretty great

Without a doubt

*peck*

Let’s go handsome.

-the end-

[artificialqueens]

Tree House Kisses, Chapter 20 (Adorney) - Scorpio and Veronica

A/N: Click here for previous chapters. xoxo!

Chapter Summary: Sometimes sixteen is not particularly sweet. Courtney’s birthday party has arrived, and she’s determined for it to be perfect.

Chapter 20: Rock ‘N’ Roll Party Queen

“Good moooorning!” Adore trilled, sailing into Courtney’s bedroom with a breakfast tray. “Happy birthday, princess!”

Courtney shot up in bed, pushing a sleep mask off her face, panicked. “What time is it!? Did i oversleep?! Omigod!”

“No, don’t worry, it’s only 8:30.” Adore slid the tray onto the bed and climbed in beside her. “You said I was supposed to be over to help set up at 10.”

Courtney relaxed against the pillows, sighing. “Yeah, okay. Jesus, you scared me.” She smiled, calming down a little. “What did you make me?”

“Well, Bonnie made you blueberry pancakes, that gross fake bacon and some kind of coconut banana smoothie. I made you this.” She handed over a black box with “2001” written on the top.

Courtney opened her mouth so that Adore could feed her a bite of pancakes while she took the lid off the box. She giggled at the contents of the box, picking up the note and reading it out loud.

“Remember when we were 11 and I broke my ankle and you were jealous of my cast, because you are a psycho, so my mom wrapped your ankle in an ace bandage and surgical tape and then gave you a pair of crutches and you hobbled around like a drama queen and made everyone sign your bandage? Well, I made everyone sign another one. Cause you deserve to have all your silly fantasies indulged.” Courtney looked up. “Awww, thanks, babe.” She leaned over to give Adore a hug.

“Read the messages!” Adore urged, feeding her a strip of soy bacon.

OMG I remember when you made us all do this when you were 11, hahaha. GET WELL SOON HONEY! XOXO! <3, Darienne

Hey Cheerleader. This is fuckin weird. -Willam

Feel Better, Courtney! Love, Pearl

Get better soon, mi puta sucia! Te amo forever!! Muchos Besos, April

Hey cutie! Love you and your beautiful voice!! Rest and get better! -Jinkx

Court, I this was silly in 6th grade and it’s REALLY silly now. But I hope you like it. So get well soon, I guess. Your friend, Bob

Hope your imaginary ankle heals, Courtney! I mean I know your ankle is real but I mean your imaginary injury. I hope that heals. Whee, yay for pretend!!! Love, Thorgy

HURRY UP AND GET BETTER CAUSE WE NEED YOU ON TOP OF THAT PYRAMID OKURRRRRR! KISSES, GANJA

I don’t really get what’s going on here. Xo, Gia

Gia is a moron. Always and Forever, Alyssa Edwards

Fuck Adore, this present is stupid. I love you. -Roy

^JEALOUS MUCH??^ This present is genius and your boyfriend obviously has no imagination! <3, Dory

Courtney burst out laughing, snuggling against Adore’s warm body. “This was awesome. Thanks. And thank you for breakfast, too. Bonnie’s the best.”

“Alright, cuddleslut, what’s on the schedule today?” Adore asked, kissing the top of Courtney’s head.

“The people from the party supply place are delivering the tables and stuff by 10, and I told Darienne and Roy to come at 10:30.”

“Gotcha.”

She reached for her clipboard. “I should probably make sure that my mom’s boyfriend is on his way to help set up all the lights and stuff. My sister is picking up the cake and the food from Pasadena on her way here, and then we have to put it in the oven while we do hair and makeup. My mom will take care of the final set-up with grandma and my aunt.”

Adore opened her mouth to respond but Courtney continued to speak.

“I have to make sure that there’s power for Tomas, the DJ, and that we print out the lists for the photographer. I was supposed to do that last night but I forgot and oh!”

“Court!” Adore interrupted.

“Yeah?”

“Take a breath, babe. Have some more pancakes.” She held out a forkful and Courtney acquiesced.

-

The way Courtney was giving out orders, it seemed to Roy like she was planning a wedding, not a birthday party.

“Roy, take these chairs outside and set them evenly around the tables.” Courtney pointed to the stack of chairs against the wall.

“By myself? Where’s Adore, so she can help me?” Roy scratched his head looking around.

“Adore is doing other things. Just take a few at a time-- No! Carry them... like this,” Courtney fixed the chairs under Roy’s arm to help him carry the maximum chairs that he could.

As Roy wobbled to the door trying not to drop the chairs, Adore entered, snickering when she saw Roy having a bit of trouble.

“Need some help?” she asked as she held the door open.

“Yeah, take--”

“No Roy, I told you. I need Adore to help me with other stuff. Use your muscles,” Courtney chided, pulling Adore away from Roy causing the door to close on him.

“Uh...” Adore looked back at Roy, trying not to laugh at his groans of pain.

“Help me move this projector outside for the video,” Courtney said, gesturing to the overhead.

“Video?” Adore asked, moving to help Courtney lift the projector.

“Yeah,” Courtney nodded as they headed out the door. “Let's move it over there, I want it by our table so that I can be front and center when the video plays.” Courtney nodded guiding them to where she wanted it to be sat.

“So, like baby videos and all of that?” Adore smirked.

“Yep, annnddd,” she stretched out teasingly, “the video of you, me, Dela, April and Darienne doing Wannabe,” Courtney smiled sitting the projector down.

“No! No you didn’t,” Adore stared wide eyed at her.

“Yes, yes I did. It’s super cute and one of my most precious memories. Remember earlier that day we argued about who would get to be Ginger and you started to cry until I told you, you could be her next time?” Courtney giggled.

“Yeah, I remember because you lied and I never got to be Ginger,” Adore shook her head, “But I also remember the choreography being fucking awful. Which is why you should probably skip over that video,” Adore rolled her eyes.  

Courtney grinned, asking teasingly, “Afraid you’re not gonna look cool in front of Raja?”

“No one is gonna look cool in that video, but Raja isn’t coming.”

“What?! Why didn’t you tell me?!” Courtney’s hand flew to her cheek, brow furrowed in distress.

“I--you didn’t even want her here. I had to beg you to let me invite her, why are you upset?”

“Because now I have to re-do the tables, Adore! She was sitting with us, because she was your date, and now it’s gonna be--”

“Re-do the tables?”

“The TABLE ASSIGNMENTS!” Courtney pointed to the stack of place cards, names carefully lettered on pink and silver stars.

Adore shook her head. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know that we had table assignments, I thought it was like, a party, I thought--”

“Ugh!” Courtney threw up her hands, exasperated. “How will people know where to sit if we don’t have placecards? I need to go get the seating chart!” She flounced back inside to grab more supplies.  

Adore stood there confused as she watched Courtney leave. Roy came up behind Adore, putting his hands on her shoulders, whispering, “Welcome to hell…”

Darienne walked over with a box of centerpieces. “Give her a break, guys. Party planning is very stressful.”

Roy rolled his eyes. “Yeah, we know, it’s really hard to pick napkins that match your shoes or whatever.”

“Stop. After you finish the chairs, why don’t you go help Todd and the guys with the lights, Roy? Adore, can you help me finish the tables? We need to put out all the centerpieces and lay out the placecards by the entrance.”

“Aye aye, captain.”

-

Darienne paused, in the middle of filling up balloons from a helium container with Adore, at the sound of shrieking from the kitchen. She looked at Adore. “Let’s go see what the problem is.”

“Do we have to?” Roy asked nearby.

“Come on…”

All three of them approached the kitchen door tentatively, where Courtney was on the phone with her sister, nearly hysterical.

“Kimmy! You said that Derek would be helping you!...No, fine, but I don’t really think you’re gonna be able to handle it all on your own and he has an SUV and you have a tiny little car and will it even fit? What it the cake gets messed up?!...I thought you could hold the box while he drove!” Courtney paced around the kitchen, voice at a fever pitch. “Don’t yell at me! I’m not mad at you, I’m just trying to figure out--...Don’t hang up, Kimmy!”

Darienne opened the door and walked inside. “Honey…”

Courtney turned around, tears streaked down her face. “I don’t know what to do…I think it’s too much for one person, and she’s all mad at me now, but I was just trying to tell her that she needs help...she’s upset, I think she had a fight with her boyfriend. But how was I supposed to know that?!” Courtney sniffled, letting Darienne stroke her hair.

Roy and Adore exchanged a look, and then Roy cleared his throat. “Uh, Court, I could borrow my dad’s truck, and either meet Kim, or like, just take care of it myself.”

“But what about--”

“And if you want someone to hold the cake, I can bring Eddy. Or if you don’t trust him, I’m sure Lynn is free. She’s a loser.” He flashed his dimples charmingly. “What do you think?”

“Really? You don’t mind? It’s all the way in Pasadena.”

“Yeah, well, it’s your birthday. Consider me your willing slave.”

Courtney threw her arms around his neck, kissing his face all over. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

“So...crisis averted?” Darienne asked.

“Yes,” Courtney sighed happily.

“Oh, thank god!” Adore breathed.

All smiles now, Courtney wiped her eyes and chirped, “We should get started on the gift bags!”

“Okay,” Darienne answered, “But we still need to finish the balloons, so why don’t you take Adore and Roy and I will finish outside?”

“Perfect!” Courtney grabbed Adore’s hand and pulled her into the dining room, which was loaded with party favors.

“Why do I have to do the balloons?” Roy whined.

“‘Cause you have the most hot air,” Darienne explained, shoving him towards the door.

Courtney sat down at the dining room table with a sigh. “Sorry about that. I just had this image of Kimmy driving on the freeway with the cake just like, flying around her backseat.” She shook her head. “I think I’m losing my mind.”

Adore smiled. “I think you need another present.” She pulled a black box labeled “2002” out of her bag and handed it over.

Courtney squealed and clapped her hands, pulling the lid off the box. Inside was a book she remembered well, a tearjerker by Lurlene McDaniel called “Six Months to Live,” with a note that read:

Remember how we were obsessed with all those books about the kids dying of cancer? We’re really fucked up, but at least we’re fucked up together. XO

Courtney giggled. “I still don’t know what that death obsession was all about.”

“It made sense for me, I’ve always been this moody emo bitch. But you...everyone thinks you’re all sunshine and rainbows, but I know on the inside... you’re really a sadistic weirdo,” Adore teased.

Courtney fluttered her lashes. “Well, there’s more to me than sunshine and rainbows, I guess.”

-

The snapping of Courtney opening and closing her phone was starting to irritate Kim, as she wrapped Courtney’s blonde tresses around the curler.

Once Roy had dropped off the food and cake (which, of course, had all survived the journey from Pasadena with no problems whatsoever), he and Darienne had left to go home and change so that, like all of the other guests, they could be dazzled by Courtney’s ensemble when she made her grand entrance.

Adore sat on Courtney’s bed, trying and failing to finish her own eyeliner in a compact mirror - she was supposed to be getting ready with her, and eventually doing her makeup, once Kim finished with her hair. Instead, she seemed to be getting distracted watching on as Courtney grew more anxious, gnawing on her bottom lip and flipping the phone open and closed faster and faster.

“Courtney, stop before you break it. Mom can’t afford to buy you a new one. Especially after today,” Kim said.

“Have you talked to Daddy? I texted him, but he didn’t reply,” Courtney looked in the mirror at her sister.

“Yeah, I did…” Kim nodded, knowing how important it was for their dad to be here. “He said he’d be a little late, but he’ll be here.”

“Ugh,” Courtney groaned throwing her head back, “Ow!” she yelped when the heat of the curlers stung her.

“Hold still or you’ll get burned,” Kim reprimanded.

Deciding that Courtney needed a distraction from her father’s absence, Adore climbed off the bed, “Courtney, guess what happened last night,” Adore said.

“What?”

“Well, I took your advice...”

“My advice?”

“Yeah, with Raja,” Adore nodded, leaning against the dresser.

“Who’s Raja?” Kim asked, running her fingers through Courtney’s curls.

“This really fucking gorgeous senior,” Adore grinned.

“And you two are…”

“Well, I was at her house last night to watch a movie.”

“Alone?” Courtney asked, fingernails digging into the palm of her hands.

Adore snorted, “I wish. I got to meet Raja’s other friends and they were a...welcoming group. Carmen hangs out with them too. You remember Carmen, right, Courtney? Roy’s ex.”

Courtney blinked up at Adore, “Yeah, I remember her. But you said you took my advice,” Courtney said, staring at her reflection in the mirror, wanting Adore to get to the point of the story.

Kim looked between the two girls recognizing the strain in her sister’s voice that Adore wasn’t paying any attention to.

“Oh, yeah. So, after the movie was over and everyone left. I thought about what you said and then started tripping over my words like an idiot, basically asking Raja if there was something between us or if it was in my head and…”

“And?” Courtney dug her fingernails harder into her palms, scooting to the edge of the chair as Kim tousled the curls on her head.

“Uh, I’m going to go get your tiara,” Kim squeezed Courtney’s shoulder before leaving the room.

Adore waited for Kim to leave before continuing, “Raja didn’t even let me finish talking before she walked over to me. It was kind of like in a movie when the person shuts the other person up with a kiss. I know it sounds cheesy, but it was fucking hot. Then we went to her car and made out for like an hour before she took me home.”

Courtney tried to keep her emotions from showing on her face as a lump formed in her throat. She didn’t understand why Adore making out with Raja bothered her so much, but she figured it had something to do with Raja’s better-than-you attitude.

She swallowed and managed to exclaim an enthusiastic, “That’s amazing Dory!”

Courtney stood up, wrapping her arms around Adore’s neck, pulling her into a hug.

“I told you. Sometimes you just have to make the first move,” she said, plastering a smile on her face.

“Yeah, well, you were right.” Adore pulled back, clearing her throat. “Which, I think deserves another present.”

Courtney giggled. “At the very least.”

Adore rolled her eyes and handed over a box with “2003” on it, which Courtney opened happily, pulling out a Magic Mountain keychain and the accompanying note.

Our trip to Magic Mountain at the end of 8th grade was important because I had two major realizations on that day. One, that I am a gigantic fucking wuss. And two, that you are a whore for danger and if we don’t watch you closely, you will willingly participate in your own death. So consider me part of an elite team keeping a close eye on your safety. Big brother is watching. It’s for your own good.

“Adore, roller coasters are fun,” Courtney defended.

“No dude, they are not. They are death traps and you are nuts.”

“You have to admit you had fun that day!”

“Uhhhh…”

“Come on! The chocolate dipped bananas?! And remember we wore our underwear outside our jeans like the ‘Slave 4 U’ video?”

Adore laughed. “Yeah, come to think of it, that’s even more disturbing that Goliath and Batman and Viper combined…”

-

Adore was finishing up Courtney’s makeup while Kim bustled around, trying to help Karen with the final setup and not strangle her demanding little sister.

“Kimmy, is my dress here?” Courtney whined.

“Yeah, do you want me to go get it?”

“Yeah, and is Tomas almost done setting up? I want the music to already be going when people come. Also, make sure all the food is good and covered and that everything’s already out there.”

Kimmy rolled her eyes, but stood up anyway. “Anything else, your highness?”

“Yeah, make sure the the ice hasn’t melted on the drinks. If so, dump the water out and put new ice in. Also tell the photographer that my right side is my best side, but also get shots of my left for variety.”

As Kim left the room, Adore put down the eyeshadow brush, looking into Courtney’s green eyes. “You’re being really extra right now.”

“I’m just trying to give her stuff to do so she leaves us alone…” Courtney said under her breath, and both girls giggled.

-

Courtney pulled nervously on her gloves and peeked through her bedroom curtains at the party guests trickling into her backyard. “Not that many people are here yet. I mean I know it’s early, but...my dad’s still not here.”

“But you knew he was gonna be late, right?” Adore asked, tightening the laces on the back of her dress and tying them into a bow.

“Yeah.”

“I was just out there. April and Dari are here, and Pearl. Roy’s here, of course, charming the pants off your family, really winning those future husband points like the brown noser he is.” Adore rolled her eyes. “He even remembered the pocket square that matches your dress. Speaking as a lesbian, straight people do the gayest shit ever.”

Courtney giggled.

“Come on. Ready to make your grand entrance?”

Courtney nodded, taking Adore’s hand and following her down the hall and to the back door where the guests were gathered.

“Alright, go ahead.”

Courtney took a deep breath as she gathered the glittery tulle of the fuchsia colored skirt in her hands, and Adore opened the door. One foot in front of the other, time seemed to slow down as she entered the backyard.

Roy’s eyes widened and a huge smile spread across his face as he watched Courtney walk into the backyard. She looked as if she had just stepped out the pages of a fairytale. The lights shined off of the rhinestoned bodice and her bare shoulders dusted with glitter, thanks to Adore. The tight corset made her waist look incredibly tiny against the fullness of the poofy layered skirt. Her blonde hair was curled, half up, the rest falling down her back as the rhinestone tiara was bobby pinned on top of her head. The silver tiara matched her necklace and the ring and bracelet layered over her gloves.  

Courtney couldn’t have been happier with everyone’s reaction; gasping and awwing as she twirled, so everyone could get a good look.

But, she could be happier. Courtney wished that her father could have been there to see her. Where was he? She shook her head slightly, blinking back tears, smiling at Roy.

“Wow, Courtney! You look beautiful,” Roy stepped forward, grabbing Courtney's hand.

“So freaking gorgeous!” Darienne practically squealed.

“Yes!” April added. “You look like a princess, lo apruebo.”

“Yeah, wow! You look amazing,” Pearl nodded.

“Thank you! Thank you so much.” Courtney played coy, accepting all the compliments with a bashful flutter of lashes.

“Yep, she was a bit of a fixer upper, but l worked my magic,” Adore joked, wrapping her arm around Courtney’s shoulders, placing a light kiss to her cheek.

“Dory,” Courtney pouted.

“Courtney,” at the sound of Muriel’s voice, Adore removed her arm from around Courtney, leaving her to deal with her grandmother on her own.

“Well, do you approve?” Karen asked, kissing her daughter on the forehead and gesturing to the set-up.

“Everything looks great. Thank you, Mommy.” Courtney smiled, then her brow furrowed. “Why is Jordan wearing navy blue?”

Karen turned to look at Courtney’s 9-year-old cousin, who was in fact wearing a navy blue polo shirt. “Oh, well, that looks dark, I’m sure Aunt Catherine thought it was black.”

“Well, it’s not, and it’s not semi-formal.” Courtney put her hands on her hips. “It’s going to ruin the pictures.”

“Courtney, honey, please relax, it’s night time, no one will be able to tell the difference…”

Courtney turned to Roy. “Does Eddy have a black or white button-down that Jordan could borrow? Or like a sweater? Something he wears for church?”

Roy saluted and pulled out his phone. “On it!”

“Roy, I really wish you wouldn’t indulge her!” Karen told him, pouring herself a glass of wine, muttering, “I will be fucking thrilled when this day is over.”

“Happy birthday, Courtney!” screamed Laganja, bursting into the backyard and racing over to hug her. “Omigod, you look like a Disney princess. Spin around!”

“Yaaaaaaas!” Gia crowed. “Come on, let’s dance!”

Adore sighed in relief that the cheerleaders had arrived. Even though they weren’t her favorite people, maybe having more party guests would cause Courtney to relax and have some fun. If she was dancing, she wouldn’t be stressing out about dress codes and her father being late.

It only took a song and a half before it appeared that was just the trick. The kids were all having a blast on the dance floor while the adults chatted and enjoyed the hors d'oeuvres over by the tables.

Pearl nudged Adore on the shoulder, who turned just in time to see Bob bend down and kiss April softly on the lips.

“Awwww...gross,” Adore commented, causing Pearl to laugh. Then when Alyssa appeared, Adore groaned softly.

“What?” asked Pearl.

“No, it’s just...Alyssa’s dress has red trim.”

“So?” Pearl looked mystified.

“Courtney’s been freaking out when people deviate from the black and white dress code.”

Pearl laughed. “It’s like, one little flower on the waistband. I think it’ll be fine.”

“Who knew Cheerleader was such a diva?” asked Willam.

Adore gave him a Look. “Only those of us who have been around for more than one birthday.”

“You have pink shoes,” Pearl pointed out.

“These were assigned to me. I think I’m like the maid of honor or something. Darienne has pink gloves. Roy’s got that pocket square.”

“This party is so gay,” Willam laughed.

“I know, right? Be right back. I’m gonna go ask the DJ to play some Britney.”

“And you judge me for Madonna?! You’re a garbage person!” Pearl called after her.

After the current song ended, Tomas announced, “We’ve got a special request for some Britney circa 2004, and this song happens to be on the Birthday Girl’s list of pre-approved songs, so...here we go…”

Courtney squealed happily when “Toxic” began to play, and Adore made her way through the crowded dance floor to hand her the “2004” present, a Britney t-shirt…

So last year, you got a pretty fucking cool birthday present, that karaoke machine, and we spent about a month singing Britney songs non-stop. For the record, I’m not opposed to breaking it out again tonight.

Courtney gave Adore a hug. “Good to know,” she told her.

“Are you okay?” Adore asked, sensing that her mood was dipping a little.

“I just...he’s still not here. We’re about to serve dinner and I wanted to play the video while people ate, and I really wanted him to see it. And…” Courtney swallowed. “I guess it doesn’t matter. I mean, I can always show him later, right?”

“Yeah, exactly!” Adore kissed her on the forehead. “Play it now and put me out of my misery. The sooner we get that Spice Girls shit over with, the better.”

Courtney giggled. “You got it, Scary.”

“Ugh. I’m never gonna hear the end of this,” Adore groaned, looking over at Pearl and Willam, knowing they were going to torture her forever once they saw that video.

[handmadecp]

The Little red Bag.

Welcome back to another little project from Beginners journey into Leather Craft here at HandMadeCP. We are doing a few build alongs showing ‘Kit’s’ for those thinking they might like to have a go but unsure what to do, this time it’s a kit slightly larger than the last, if you missed that one please look into the archive. The first thing is to locate a reasonable piece of leather. I used a Veg tan leather, not quite sure of the actual thickness but I chose one that was fairly rigid but that could still be manipulated into the shape I needed. hope that helps....as I’ve often mentioned I’m not a professional I started my own journey into Leather Craft almost three years ago and have enjoyed every minute of it so much that I like to share my projects and my experiences good and bad with others who may enjoy it. but the actual way they measure Leather is confusing as heck lol. So let’s begin.

Pic 1 : I used the original as a template and made a copy on the Veg tan, of the main body the strap, the inside base piece and the small side straps. I used a ‘Box cutter’ style knife with a new blade to cut the shape required as shown above, I marked all of the holes through onto the new piece and used a revolving punch and hand punch to make the holes as can be seen.

Pic 2 : here you see the traced pattern I wanted to carve and tool onto the front flap of this bag, quite a simple design and quite easy to learn if it’s your first venture using a swivel knife but I would advise some practice on old scraps first. Then wet the leather all over..not just where you are going to trace the pattern, this is because each time you wet the leather you will change the shading of it  and doing it all over will help to prevent..’Tide’ lines which may still show through after dying. Then I used a Ball point drawing tool and traced over the picture so the imprint came out on the leather as shown, ‘don’t’..have the pencil side down or the lead will mess up the leather and don’t press too hard that you go through, you just need to be able to follow the lines with the swivel knife.

Pic 3 : Just enough to see the pattern.

Pic 4 : Begin your cutting with the swivel knife, make sure it’s sharpened and you’ve practiced a bit first to warm up.There are some very gifted people on YTube showing how to carve why not drop by and have a look at some.

Pic 5 : using paper tape cover the back if doing any tooling this helps to resist stretching whilst hammering the leather with tools.

Pic 6 : The pattern is carved and now we are tooling, starting a the upper most leaf.

Pic 7 : Close up of the cuts and the  Beveling

Pic 8 : All the beveling is finished.

Pic 9 : using this hand punch I made the required holes in all the other pieces.

Pic 10 : I chose to use a ‘Crimson’ colored water based dye by ‘Eco-Flo’ ( some call it ‘Echo’ as in a vocal Echo Echo Echo...others call it ‘Eeeeco’ as in Eco-warrior or Eco friendly lol..take your pick lol.  I coated everything in the dye then left it to dry..I left it a few hours, because the next step required all moisture to be out of the leather so it wouldn’t be locked in with the ‘fixer’..the Resolene coat, that would trap moisture inside and I’m told it can rot the leather..hence..letting it dry, don’t try to help this process with an oven or hair dryer as the leather can become brittle,....yes...I admit..I tried it lol...so hopefully you won’t.

Pic 11 : No.you’re not seeing things and I haven’t got pics mixed up..I thought you might like to see how I passed the time waiting for it the bag to dry..I made a Belt for my son, this is another fun simple project and I may do a full build along if any one is interested but these are pretty self explanatory.

Pic 12 : This Brass Buckle from Tandy leather goes great with the dark of the leather and the matching Brass rivets.

Pic 13 : The slot was cut using a small cutting blade that comes in a box of blades in all shapes found on Amazon and very affordable, they do a great job, a very clean cut.

Pic 14 : As you can see it’s a very quick thing to make once you know how, if even one person asks I’ll do a build along set. Ok, you can see the bag sections drying in the back ground, time to put this together.

Pic 15 : There really isn’t much to show for the putting together, I used Antique brass rivets,’D’ rings and line 27 snap stud, it all just folds together and you pin it with the rivets and Voila a nice small red Bag...can be any color you choose with any design you can come up with, I chose this one as its easy for any one to follow if new to carving and tooling.

Pic 16 : Back view

Pic 17 : Side view.

Pic 18: Shows the inside base piece, you can glue it in place or leave loose..your choice.

Pic 19 : I left the inside flesh colored for contrast I think it works well. this Bag is small but plenty big enough to carry keys, purse / Wallet, I.D. Make up, Vanity Mirror etc. I was very surprised how much goes in actually.

Pic 20 : Makes for a nice accessory bag for make up keys and phone etc, suits young Adults as well as young Girls. One of my nieces kids also carries her small doll around in it with all the dolls accessories...Kids are so inventive hahaha that’s thinking outside the box. Well guys that’s it. the little red bag, I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing this little build along and might give it a go or maybe it’s fired your imagination towards doing some other style. Thanks for following Watch this space for many more projects this year yet. Feel free to ask questions, as I’ve said I’m still learning myself as I go along but if I can help in any way I will. All the best till next time....and as always..’Stay Crafty’

[fatesinthenight]

The Egos and a Baby (part 8)

“You found her a home?” Kathryn asked surprised. “Yes. I was searching all night.” Dark drinks his coffee and lets out a yawn. “Wow that was really thoughtful of you. And it’s you.” Mark saids. “I did it for me. I rather not have a small baby living here and dealing with it.” Dark sighs. “Question though. How did you find a family for her? Did she have one before she was left at the house?” Amy asks. “Hope did not have a home to go back to. She lost her mother at birth and the father had left before she was born. She was in a bad foster home and was taken in by a selfish woman trying to salvage a failed relationship. She was completely alone.” Dark runs his head and looks at the baby. She was sitting on the floor and Ethan and Tyler were playing peek a boo with her. Willford joins them and makes a goofy face every time he appears behind his hands. “Poor sweetheart…” Amy’s heart goes out to Lil Bub. “So her name is Hope? How did you find that out?” Kathryn asks. “It is on the tag of her toy. The mother bought it for her before she was born it seems.” Dark takes another swing and his coffee. “I looked into her mind last night to see if she can be given to anyone and doesn’t seem to have any other family. So I looked up families and did a search on them and found one. Hope what an ironic name.” “When do we give her to her new parents?” Mark asks. “They should be arriving in two hours. So I suggest everyone saids their goodbyes now.” Dark sits up and walks away. “Hey Dark. Thank you. You did a good thing.” Mark calls to Dark. “I didn’t do it for you.” Dark calls back and goes to his room. Mark goes into the main room and tells everyone what Dark did. He tells them that Hope’s new parents are coming soon. “How come Dark can give up a baby and it’s fine but when I do it it’s a big problem?” Ed makes a face. “Did he really do that?” Bim looks up at Mark from his spot on the floor beside Hope. “Yes he did. So I’m sorry guys but Hope has to go be with her new family.” Mark saids softly. “Wait how do we know this is real? What if this is all a lie and just another one of Darks tricks.” Willford saids. “It is not. I just looked at what Dark had searched on his computer. He looked up adopting agencies and looked through the profiles and found this couple in Long Beach. Their profile seems in check.” Googles eyes glow and he does the search in his head. “Then Dark did something good.” Silver tilts his head. “It appears so.” The Host said. “So this really means that she is leaving…” Bim looks at Hope who is crawling on Tyler as he lays down. “It is for the best remember.” The doctor pats Bim’s head. “We can always just say she likes us better. Me being the best dad.” Willford saids hopefully. “Willford knows that this couple wants Hope just as much as you do maybe even more. They must have been waiting for so long to have a child and now they will be graced with Hope.” The Host saids softly. A hint of sadness in his voice. “I know I know… It’s just I love Lil Bub.” Willford looks down. “We all do Will but her new parents are coming and we need to send her off. So let’s get dressed and send her off with a big smile ok.” Amy holds Willford’s hand looking up at him. “Ok lets do it!! There will be no tears today!! I’m looking at you Bim. Now let’s get this show on the road!” Willford saids in his showman voice. After 2 hours a car pulls infront of the house. A couple gets out and walks to the front of the door an knocks. “Hello you must be the Martins. I’m Mark.” Mark answers the door and lets in the couple into the house. “My girlfriend is getting Hope’s things ready. Can I get you anything?” “O no thank you. Wow you have a big house here.” The wife looks around as they walk into the main room. “O well it’s actually not my house.” Mark saids. “O right it’s your brothers house isn’t it? He said he lives here with all of his family right. That must be interesting.” The husband smiles as they all sit down at the couch. “Um yea it is. It got really crowded so I moved out but I had to stay the night on the count of the storm that hit.” Dark had made up the story that all the egos were relatives so if they questioned why they all looked alike there would be an explanation. But making the egos seem like his brothers, Mark sighed. “Are your brothers here? We wanted to thank them for finding Hope.” The wife asks Mark. “O yea my brothers are around they should be here.” Mark Hope’s they would act normal for once in front of this couple. “O why hello there! My name is Willford.” Willford walks into the room. He made his pink mustache look black for the couple. He shakes hands with the couple. “It’s nice to meet you Willford. You brother here was just telling us you will be here.” The wife smiles. “Of course. I’m going to miss Lil Bub. She is quite the character.” Willford laughs. “Lil Bub?” The husband asks. “It’s a nickname he gave her.” Mark saids. “Awwww it sounds cute.” The wife giggles. “See they like it.” Will whispers to Mark. “Hey there. The names Ed.” Ed walks in and leans in a chair. “Yes sir the little lady is a cutie pie.” “O hi there! I’m Bim it’s nice to meet you two.” Bim shakes the couples hands and sits beside Willford. “Good morning. I am Dr.iplier. I gave Hope an examination and these are her medical records as of now. I hope this will be of use for the future.” The docto hands the papers to the husband. “Wow this is great thank you. We didn’t know if she had an exam yet. Thank goodness your a doctor.” The husband saids looking up at the doctor. “Ummm hello. I’m Silver…” Silver walks out. The egos and Mark stare at him because he took off his costume. It was like they forgot he looks like Mark as they looked at him with eyes wide open. “Silver? That’s an interesting name.” The wife saids. “Yea our parents couldn’t think of anymore names hahaha…” Silver saids nervous. He feels naked without his costume but he was doing it for Hope and treated it like it was a mission. “Why hello it is very nice to meet you. I am Google.” Google steps in. He did his best to seem less like a droid trying not to glitch. “Google? The website?” The wife tilts her head. “The very same. It is a nickname if you will.” Google saids. “Hu cool.” The husband chuckles. “And I am Host.” The Host walks in with his cane. The doctor used patches on his eyes for the time being replace for the bandages. They were then covered by a pair of black glasses big enough to to cover the patches. “O do you need help?” The wife stand up and walks to Host. “That is very kind of you. But I will be fine standing here.” The Host smiles. “Alright.” The wife pats Hosts hands on his cane and sits beside her husband. “I hope my brothers have not bothered you. They can be very unusual.” Dark walks in. He was able to make himself look human and not flicker red and blue. “O no your brothers are great. I find their names very cool. You must be Dark.” The husband stand up and shakes Darks hand. “Yes I’m Dark. I’m glad you had a save journey here. I have all the paperwork here. It is done with I handled it myself.” Dark gives the husband a folder. “Thank you so much Dark. This means so much to us.” The husband smiles wide. “My wife and I have been trying to have children but found out we can’t. We have been wanting to adopt for years but nothing happened. I can’t thank you enough…” The wife walks to Dark and hugs him with tears in her eyes. “Thank you so much… It’s everything..” “Your welcome Mrs. Martin. I wanted Hope to go to a good family. She deserves it.” Dark smiles and pats the wife’s back. Amy walks in holding Hope in her arms and Kathryn has the baby bag in hers. The couple sees Hope and they tear up at the sight of her. “Mr. And Mrs. Martian this is Hope.” Amy smiles and bounces Hope. “She is perfect.. Awwww she is so beautiful.” The wife cries. “Here you can hold her.” Amy gives Hope to her new mother. Hope looks up mat the wife curiously. She tilts her head and then smiles. She giggles and lifts her arms up at her. “I love you already.” The wife holds Hope close. The husband comes beside her and holds Hopes head and cries too. Ethan sniffles with Bim and Silver passes them the tissue box he was holding in case of emergency. They all go outside and put Hope’s bag in the trunk and the couple smiles brightly. “I can’t thank you enough for this…” The husband saids and he looks at this wife bouncing Hope happily. “We are just glad she is going to a good home with you.” Bim saids snuffling. “We should be heading home now. Thank you all so much for everything.” The husband saids. “Umm wait my brothers were the ones That were taking care of Hope. You should thank them more. Without them Hope wouldn’t have been able to find you two.” Mark saids looking back at the egos. “We have gifts for Hope if you don’t mind.” Bim saids. “Of course not. That’s so sweet of you all.” The wife saids. Ed goes first. “Well little lady I got you this hat. It suits you well. I also got you a pair of little cowgirl boots. I’m going to to miss ya. Take care now.” Ed sniffles and give Hope a kiss on the head. Silver goes next. “ Hope I know your going to be a good girl so I want you to have this… It’s my Silver action figure and the onesie I got you is in your bag cape included. So you know you can save the world one day. Bye little sidekick.” Silver kisses Hope. Google comes up. “Now Hope I found that babies enjoy those toys that light up so I got you a robot that teaches you the alphabet. May this serve as a learning device for you. May you stay well in the future.” Google kisses Hope and when he backs away he sniffles just a little. The doctor comes in. “Well now since I was your first doctor I will give you this teddy bear doctor in hopes maybe you will want to become one too. I think you have great potential to help others. Stay healthy.” The doctor give his kiss. The Host comes makes his way to Hope. “I want you to have this. This is a book or fairytale so found in my room. I think they will suit you more. May you always have sweet dreams sweet Hope.” The wife brings up Hope to meet Hosts lips to kiss her head. Willford zooms in. “Now I know I speak for everyone when I say I was the fun dad here. So to keep the it going i got you… A top hat and white and red stripped coat!! Just like me!!! To me you will always be my Lil Bub. Good day to you my darling.” Willford kisses Hope repeatedly and she giggles. Bim walks up sadly but happy. “Ok Hope this is your family now. I know we took care of you for a day but I’m going to miss you so much. I’m so happy I found you… And that you came into our lives even for just a moment. We were a family. And I will never forget you… I love you Hope.” Bim tears up and cries a little. He wipes his tears and takes a breath. “So I got you this daisy. It’s so bright and open. It puts a smile on anyone’s face just like you. Be good for me ok?” Bim kisses Hope and she wipes a tear from his face. Just when the couple was about to leave Dark come up. “Wait. I believe you almost forgot something my lady.” He holds out the plush dog. He hands it to the wife and Hope whimpers and holds her arms out for Dark. “She wants you. Want to hold her for a moment before we go?” The wife holds out Hope. Dark hesitantly takes her in his arms. “You are the most interesting one I have ever met. I am very taken by you. I wonder how you will grow. Did this encounter impact you? Will it influence you? Who is to say.. Usually I want to meet someone again if it means I get a deal but for you only if we meet again I hope is for good intentions. I gave you your gift already. Gave you a family. Farewell my dear Hope” Dark kisses Hope’s cheek. Hope cuddles one last time to his chest and whispers “Dadda” “For this moment I will be.” Dark give Hope back to her new mom. They strap her in her baby seat and take off. The Egos wave at the car as it disappears from sight and smile. Mark looks at them and smiles. When Dark walks past him he snickers. “Who knew you were a softy Darkipoo. It’s nice to know.” “Only for that one.” Dark huffs and he leaves into the house. “Well now we have an empty nest… Let’s get another one!!!” Willford saids happily. “Dear god no… Let’s not mess up any other children” Tyler saids. “But we know what to do now!!!” Willford pouts. “Fine then let me look after Chica to help my broken heart. O Chica I got a dog Willford Warfstache outfit with your name on it!!” Chica’s tail wags happily as Willford scoops her in his arms and runs off with her in the house. “Don’t you dare take my dog!!!” Mark storms in after Will. “Well things are normal now.” Ethan saids. “Hey let’s sleep over again!!” “Yea it was fun!” Bim saids and he and Ehtan walk in to house making plans. “Maybe this time we can play more games.” Silver runs into the house and tugs on his mask. “Well then I’m going to grab some grub I’m starving.” Ed walks in the house next. “Me too I’m starving. Hey Google can we stream some Netflix.” Tyler said as he steps into the house. “I can access that.” Goggle goes in with Tyler. “Host want to help me cook? Lols like we have a full house again.” The doctor sighs. “Ooo please!! I love your cooking.” Amy saids happily. “I call first dibs!!” Kathryn races Amy to the house. The Host makes his way in the house and looks out once more. “Yes one big happy family.” The End *hope you enjoyed this story. I will be posting my original story for now but i will be back with another ego story soon. Also I realized I was spelling Kathryn’s name wrong.. Sorry T-T thank you for reading :)

[naomi-lafleur]

Challenge 3

A/N: Sorry, I know this writing is shit (more than usual) Thank you to @e–jun, @mikavladmska, @alessiaamabo, @eilidhcrain, and @genevamartinelli (so basically Anj) for rping with me :) There’s also mention of @heatherkuwahara and @niara-aldaine

Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock. Tick. Tock.

I was staring at the clock while hyperventilating. In about fifty five seconds, I would be walking down the stairs to meet the foreign diplomats.

Let’s hope you don’t end up insulting them.

“There! You look wonderful, Naomi! Are you nervous?” asked Aurora.

“Nervous is an understatement.” I stared at the mirror for a moment. I was wearing a beautiful navy and white dress with an intricate floral design. I had my straight hair pulled into a ponytail.

Eleanor zipped up my dress and straightened out the bottom. “Don’t worry, just be yourself and they will love you! Now you must go meet the other ladies,” she said, opening the door.

I took a breathe in and smiled.

It’s okay. You got this.

I walked down the stairs and joined the other girls. Heather was ushering us into the women’s room. I looked around the room, looking for someone to talk to. I saw Niara roaming around, so I decided to go start a conversation. We greeted each other for a bit until I saw Viola ending up her talk with the Ambassador of New Asia.

“Hello, your highness! It’s so amazing to be meeting you!”

“Hello, Lady Naomi , please call me E-Jun, nice to meet you”

“Please, call me Naomi, or Nana. Haha it’s what the other ladies call me. Are you having a nice stay so far?”

“I’m having a great time in the palace meeting all the girls, I was looking forward to this. I find the selection a really interesting way to find a future queen. I really like it. How have been your experience living here with so many women fighting for the same man?”

“It’s not as catty as I’ve thought it would be, to be honest. All the ladies are quite kind and wonderful once I got to get to know them.”

“I’m surprised, to be honest, I expected some stories about fights and shouting all over the place.” She chuckled. “I also read in the magazines that you guys almost burned Prince Haiden’s room!”

“Well, it was more like we burned a bush… but none of us have really been getting into fights with each other.”

“That’s great, that you get along as good friends.”

“So, how is it in New Asia? I’m curious.”

“Here in New Asia we have a parliament elected by the people. In the past we used to be a very conservative country but people worked really hard to get a democracy. What do you love the most of living here in Illéa?”

“I personally love the beautiful scenery. I used to hike mountains and paint all day long. Do you have any hobbies?”

“Oh that’s good, do you paint landscapes, portraits or both ? Yes, I like photography, most of all of awesome buildings and  nature.”

“I mainly do landscapes but occasionally I paint portraits as well. That’s so cool! Sometimes, I like exploring the palace to take photos.”

“This place is magnificent, isn’t it? I always enjoy coming here for  meetings.”

“It really is! I haven’t even been able to explore the whole place yet!”

“I bet that takes a while. So how are you feeling now that you have get this far in the competition?”

“I’m getting quite anxious to be honest. The elite are being announced after this and I’m getting very nervous! But I’m sort of homesick at the same time.”

“That’s understandable, I’m sure you all feel like that occasionally. Just try to focus in the positive things, the new friends you are making here and the opportunity you have to become a queen one day and change things in the future. Before I forget I brought you a little detail.” E-Jun paused for a moment to grab a box from the table. She extended a case with a gorgeous gold hair pin inside.

“Oh my goodness! Thank you so much! It is so beautiful!”

“I’m glad you like it!”

“How can I repay you for this wonderful gift?”

“Oh no, you don’t have to repay me, It’s just a little present from New Asia. So tell me La… I mean, Naomi. What do you think of the fact that you can possibly become Illéa’s future queen?”

“It’s quite intimidating to be honest.” I laughed. “I never would’ve thought that I’d have this opportunity.”

“It really is intimidating, I see what you mean, but of course it also means to have the opportunity to work for the people and make a better country, right?”

“Yes, I would feel privileged to have the opportunity to help improve lives.”

“How do you think you can improve lives of the Illèa’s citizens?”

(The world will improve due to my dank memes hahaha shut up Vivian)

I thought about it for a moment. “As a Five, I’ve always been home schooled. Before my mother moved to Illéa, she lived in France where she had a decent education, so she started to teach me at a very young age. As I got a bit older, my father passed away, causing my mother and older brother to work multiple jobs. There wasn’t much time for learning at my home because there was no one to teach. This part of my childhood leads me to the idea that we should build one big school in each province where fives and below can get basic education. Because the lower castes must work so much to make a living, learning is often neglected and the children grow up without having the common knowledge.”

She nodded in agreement. “True, education is the base to get a successful future, schools could make things so much better. So, you have French blood, am I right? Have you ever been there ?”

“Yes, I was born in France, but my family moved to Waverly when I turned five. We were actually planning to visit some family there, but plans were changed once I became a selected.”

“Oh, I see, well soon you will be able to visit them.”

What did that mean? Is she implying that I’m being eliminated soon? Am I overthinking this?

“Haha… yes, I’m very eager to meet my new born nephew.”

Nephew? Is that what your cousin’s child is called by me? First cousin, wasn’t it?

“Aww congratulations, new aunt! Or do you have another nephew?”

“Thank you! Technically he’s my first cousin, but I like to call him my nephew. And this is my first one! There’s another coming our way around April or May, so that’s exciting!”

“Oh!” E-Jun said in a surprised tone. “It’s great that your family is growing.”

After we ended off the conversation, I placed the delicate pin onto my hair. A little while later, I went to talk to Mika Vladmska of the Russian Federation. She seemed quite cold, so I had to be extra careful on how I spoke.

“Hello! It is an honour to be in your presence, your highness,” I bowed.

“And you as well, Lady Naomi.’

“Thank you so much! So, how are you finding Illéa so far?”

“It’s been not to my highest expectations, if I’m entirely honest.”

“Ah, that’s unfortunate, but I see what you mean. I find it much lovelier by the mountains. I prefer rural areas to the city life.”

“In Russia, the cities are never crowded, but it’s still has enough life to keep me sane. The people I meet are another problem, yeah?”

“I’d love to visit Russia one day! Seems wonderful.”

“You must absolutely come. You can be a personal guest of mine.”

Aw, she’s quite kind.

“That sounds amazing! Are there any particular places that you love in Russia?”

“The old palace of the Romanovs always gives me chills when stepping in.”

“Ah yes, I’ve learned a bit about them. Sounds quite spooky.”

“Ah, spooky doesn’t even begin to describe it. It’s completely terrifying learning of their stories and betrayal.”

“You’re making me want to visit the palace more now. How many times have you gone there?”

“Oh quite a lot. Most likely twice or so throughout the year.”

“Wow, you’re so daring! Do you even have any fears?” I let out a quiet laugh.

“I’m not sure myself.”

We continued to talk for another 5 minutes until she ended the conversation. I briefly spoke to Eilihd Crain of The British Empire, Princess Geneva Martinelli of Italy, and Katja Nikula of Sweden. I looked at the big clock.

5:00 PM… Hmm I probably have time for one more.

Finally, I walked over to Alessia Mabo.

“Hello, your highness! It’s so nice to meet you!”

“Hello, Lady Naomi, it’s a pleasure to meet you as well.”

“Welcome back to Illéa! Wow, you look so similar to your cousins.”

“I’ve been told I look quite like my Tante Alizé.”

“Yes, I could tell. You look exactly like her!”

“Have you had the chance to speak with her?”

“I’ve briefly introduced myself, but I don’t think she’s been very talkative so far.”

“Tante Alizé may come off as cold at first, but don’t let that deter you from talking to her.”

“Haha yes, I understand. She probably does not want to get attached to some of us just to see them leave.”

“So how is it like in France? I moved to Illéa from there when I was five, so I don’t remember much about it.”

“You’re French? Oh that’s amazing! Do you speak? And France during the winter and spring will always be my favourite. Even in the summer it’s wonderful, with tourists running about. You must come back one day.”

“Yes, although I wasn’t the best at French, I’m currently getting lessons from Miss Heather to improve my vocabulary. Haha, my family has been meaning to visit our relatives in France, but plans have changed since I got selected.”

“Have you tried any of these Macaroons?” I asked, offering her some. “They are delicious! Chef Baguette has outdone himself once again.”

“Oh, these are delicious. Do send my compliments to the chef.”

“Will do,” I said, smiling.

“So, how do you think the world will improve if you become queen one day?”

“I am very passionate about children, so I would definitely start improving how orphanages work. I find it quite upsetting that children are automatically considered eights just as they are born because they cannot be identified. I want to ensure that they will have a decent life in the future. An idea that I have to improve this is by seeing where their talents are. The orphanages would have a series of tests to see what they are skilled at, then they can be put in the proper caste.”

“That’s an interesting concept.”

“I have many more ideas, such as donating leftover food to local shelters, or maybe building schools where the fives and below would be able to learn.”

Alessia nodded. “Do you think you are deserving of this position?”

“Indeed, I’d like to think that I am somewhat fit for this position.”

Somewhat is the key word here

“I relate to the people, because most of the population is comprised of Fours and lower. And I feel as though I am quite an independent lady. I am able to improvise without being told what to do.”

“Lastly, How will you handle foreign relations?”

“I am fluent in French, which I find is incredibly useful when negotiating or discussing about any situations. Fortunately, my family was originally from France, so I can understand it perfectly, but I am currently learning how to speak in more detail from Miss Heather.”

Right after that, Heather started to tell everyone to start wrapping up.

“Well, it was a pleasure to get to know you, Naomi. I hope to get to speak with you once again!” Alessia said, kindly.

“The pleasure was all mine. Thank you so much!”

We parted ways and I headed back up to my room. I was exhausted. Speaking with foreign diplomats is strangely tiring. I took a bath and then started to write a letter home.

Dear maman, I just came back from talking to foreign diplomats. It was incredibly draining, but everyone was so kind. I’m sorry that I haven’t been able to write to you guys. We’re already on our third challenge and this feels like it’s going by so fast! I’ve made lots of friends and the palace is breathtaking. And I finally turned 18! It’s sad that I couldn’t celebrate with you guys this year, but there’s always next year! I m getting sleepy now, so I must go. Please tell Victoire, Lucien, and Etienne that I miss them. I’ll try to write to you guys more if I don’t get eliminated soon. Je t��adore!

(You can’t see it very clearly, but the hair pin is there)

[writekin]

untitled

"R, this idea is freakin' crazy," He hissed into his phone. "You should see the amount of people here, someone's bound to recognize me." "This isn't about you, D. It's about him. You know that. We need to make sure he's on our side. God knows what he's been doing all these years." Sighed the voice on the other end. Dave Strider shifted uncomfortably in the hot, packed room. There was chatter all around him. A few people snuck suspicious glances at him, though luckily, none looked like they worked for the empress. None had that glazed-over look that indicated that they were under her control. "Christ, I know. I know. I just can't believe intel would say that there's even a slight chance that he'd be on her side. He's always known what's right." He muttered into the phone. More looks his way. He swallowed nervously. The lights in the room started to dim. Dave looked up and sighed. "Listen, R. I gotta go. The show's about to start. I'll update you afterwards." "Okay. Good luck, D. Don't do anything I wouldn't do." "Right, and you're so full of great ideas." Dave snorted. "Goodbye, D." Click. He was on his own now. He put the phone into his pocket, and looked up to the stage. A stagehand walked up and put down a stool, a microphone stand and a few bottles of water. Then, he walked off. A few people enthusiastically applauded him. Dave rolled his eyes. But then his heart started beating rapidly. This was it. Any moment now, he'd come out. It's been years, I wonder how much he's changed. Then he walked out. His shirt wrinkled in a few places, a blue striped bowtie around his neck, sleeves rolled up. Jeans. White socks and loafers. That dark, messy hair, forever sticking up in about a hundred places. Blue eyes (definitely color contacts, they were so blue) long eyelashes and rectangle frame glasses. That awful overbite. Such familiar details from so far away. He walked up to the microphone, tapped it to see if it worked, then picked it up. "Good evening New York. I'm sure you all know what you're here for. If you're here for the male stripclub, you're in the wrong place. You'll wanna go a few blocks east of here. It's called the Bear Cave. I hear they have great cocktail wieners there." Pause for effect. Laughter rang through the room. "Yeah... I've been to a couple male stripclubs before. Don't you hate when you get there and they're already requesting you to dance?" A couple groans and giggles. "Joking. If anyone wanted to see a jelly roll on stage, they could go back in time 70 years. It's okay, you can boo me." He grinned at the audience's reaction. "Anyways, I'm John Egbert. You've all heard of my awful jokes. And if you haven't, you just got a taste of the entree. If you want to leave, go right ahead." Nobody moved. "Shit, who's paying you guys? Can I get in on that?" Laughter. Dave snorted. "Alright, this show is dedicated to my friends back home. And a special shoutout to Rudy. I know you're here man, give me my five bucks already." He took a sip of water and started.

The show was phenomenal. The reviews were terribly understated. John's jokes were all fresh, except the ones he said himself were used in other shows. Everyone seemed entranced, and they gave him a standing ovation when he left the stage. Dave remembered his mission before he walked out of the building. He turned and went back into the auditorium, but everything seemed packed up already. He cursed himself and walked briskly outside. He turned a corner and went down an alley, scaring off a raccoon. He leaned against a wall next to a door, and pulled a lighter out of his pocket. The cigarette pack was already halfway out when he heard the door open loudly. A happy voice was saying goodbye, and the door closed again. Then something bumped hard into Dave, making him stumble, making his glasses fall off, and the contents of his pockets fall out. Dave dived to the dirty alley's floor, groping for the glasses in the dark. The person gasped. "Oh shit, I'm sorry, let me help you!" They dropped down next to Dave, and picked up the phone and cigarette pack. They handed the things to Dave. "Here you g-" Dave looked up, into the eyes of John Egbert. "John--" "DAVE??? OH WOW MAN!!!!" John exclaimed loudly. "IT'S SO GOOD TO SEE YOU!!" Dave took a step backward and shoved the items into his pockets, and his glasses back on his face. They stared at each other for a while. Dave glanced nervously around a few times before John talked again. "Haven't changed much, have you? That's alright.... Hey, you wanna come over to my place for, like, a drink?" John smiled. "Uh....." Dave glanced at his watch. 11:34 PM. I should get back to Rose, He thought, at the same moment he said, "Sure." Fuck.

Dave sat in the passenger seat of John's dark green Ford Bronco, and closes the door. He checks his watch again. 11:45 PM. Rose has gotta be so pissed. John clips his seatbelt on and fires up the ignition. He leaves the gear in park. Dave leaves forward and stares at John. "What's the hold up dude?" John stares back at him with an eyebrow raised. "This car doesn't move without the seatbelts on, Dave." "Really?" Dave snorts indignantly and pulls the seatbelt over, putting it in the clip. John shifts to reverse, backs out of the parking space, then to drive.

Dave's hands tingle halfway through the drive. He rolls down his window and reaches into his back pocket for his cigarettes. Not there. He starts to panic and pats himself up and down for the cancer sticks. "John, we gotta go back, I left my uh, my--" He looks over at John. The box lying on one of his legs. "I swiped those from you. You know they're not good for you, Dave?" John says grimly. "I have half a mind to throw them out of the window. But I won't. Just don't smoke them in my car, okay?" He reaches over to Dave's side, eyes still on the road, and opens the glove compartment. "There's some water and gum in there. Help yourself." Dave sighs, wiping sweat off his neck, and cracks open the water bottle, letting the cool water run down his throat. He opens the pack of gum (peppermint flavored) and chews three sticks nervously. "I really missed you, Dave." John said suddenly. Dave looked over at John, chewing loudly. "Rose, too. And Jade. And I've watched some of your movies. They're pretty awful, huh! You must be rich." John smiles. "And I've read a little bit of Rose's book, but it's really confusing. Have you talked to her lately?" Dave pushed the gum into his cheek. "Er.. yeah. We talk often." Dave nods. "We kinda have to stay together, y'know?" John laughs. "Yeah, you're both getting into that uprising, huh?" Dave swallows nervously and opens his mouth to speak, when his phone beeps. He makes and face and looks at it.

[stupidass 🥀] [Calling iPhone]

He declines the call, silences his phone, and shoves it into his pocket. "Who was that?" John asks curiously. ".....Ben Stiller." Dave lies quietly. "Oh, shit really? He's in your movies right? Wow! Wow, hahaha! I bet he thinks you're a total nerd for owning his glasses. You're welcome for those, by the way." John looks at Dave and grins. "Still wearing them?" Dave flushes. "I've only recently grown into them. You have no idea how long I had to wear those things and they were huge." "Yeah, yeah, okay. No coincidence either that they look so clean and not scratched, huh?" John teases playfully. "Aw whatever, I bet you still have that stupid bunny." Dave groans. "Ahah, I actually do. It means a lot that you'd get that for me, y'know? I can admit that I'm grateful for a gift." He says smugly. "Even if Con Air is garbage." "So you finally admit it." Dave smiles. "Duh!! I mean, Cage's accent is so fake! The acting is horrible, and they basically casted every ham and egger white dude who played a funny character in a movie once." Dave feels his phone buzz. He gingerly pulls the phone out, pretending to listen to John go on about the movie, and checks the screen.

[stupidass 🥀] [Missed Calls (3)] Where the hell are you? Why aren't you answering me? What's going on!?

Dave sighs, and types quickly.

got caught u pwith jhn up with john* might be a while might learn more yw

[stupidass 🥀] Oh my god.