Tumgik
#Windows 11 download time
kwlascl · 2 years
Text
Windows 11 download time
Tumblr media
Windows 11 download time install#
Windows 11 download time update#
Windows 11 download time software#
Windows 11 download time Pc#
Windows 11 download time license#
The process is actually pretty quick since the bulk of the setup was completed when the computer was still running.
After your computer restarts, it will finish the installation.
Windows 11 download time Pc#
In case you had left the PC unattended during the installation, it will restart automatically in thirty minutes. You can choose to restart at a later time too, and the installation will simply continue from there.
When this phase of installation is complete, you will be prompted to restart your computer.
In a departure from other methods, you can continue using your PC through the first phase of the installation, without having to shut down.
Once the necessary files have been downloaded, the application will verify them and then proceed with the installation.
You can keep working on your PC during this time. This can take some time, as around 4 GB of data will be downloaded.
Before it actually gets to the installation, the app will download the files needed for the setup.
If your PC supports Windows 11, you will be able to proceed with the installation.
Windows 11 download time license#
Run the Installation Assistant and agree with the license agreement.
The page also lists options to get an ISO file or create an installation media, though we will not be using those methods.
Head to Microsoft’s official download page to grab the Windows 11 Installation assistant.
Windows 11 download time install#
How can I install Upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 without data loss In case your PC meets the requirements, you can use the installer to upgrade to Windows 11 without having to format your hard drive or reinstall any applications. This includes both hardware compatibility as well as the possession of a valid Windows 10 license. Obviously, the installer will only work if your computer is otherwise eligible for Windows 11. Available for download on Microsoft’s webpage, the installer updates the existing Windows installation to the new version, without changing any of the files or applications already present on the PC. To install Windows 11 on your computer without losing your existing data, you should use the Windows Installation Assistant. How to Install Windows 11 without Data Loss The download button might still be missing, as the rollout is likely to take some time. You will see a message informing you if your system meets the system requirements. In this window, you can see whether your computer is compatible with the new version of Windows.Here is an easy way to verify whether your computer can run Windows 11. Unlike the previous iterations of the operating system, Windows 11 is more restrictive with its system requirements, and will not run on all machines. How to Check if Your PC Can Support Windows 11īefore you try installing Windows 11 on your computer, you should confirm that your PC can actually support the new version. Creating installation media is only useful if you are looking to perform a clean install, removing all existing files and applications. Similar to the image file method, it also wipes the drive clean, so it is an unsuitable method if you don’t want to lose your data.
Windows 11 download time software#
It works similar to the ISO file but is easier to use since you don’t have to install any additional software to make it work. Microsoft also provides a media creation tool to easily create a bootable USB stick (or DVD) that can be used to install Windows 11. Downloading the ISO file needs you to accept a waiver, which can prove to be an issue in the long run. Moreover, using the ISO file excludes you from official Microsoft support and future updates. Unless you have your important files already segregated into a different drive or partition, you will end up losing all your data. The problem with installing Windows through such a disk is that it needs an empty partition. Usually distributed as an ISO file, this image can be used to create a Windows installation disk. The most common way of installing an operating system on your computer is through an image file. Most common reasons for data loss during Windows 11 installing process 💿 Installing from an ISO File You can easily turn your Windows 10 PC into a Windows 11 computer without having to delete a single file or application already installed on it.
Windows 11 download time update#
Is there any way to update to the new version of Windows without losing any of your data? But usually, installing an operating system means having to re-format the hard drive. With Windows 11 finally out, everyone wants to upgrade their system to the latest version.
Tumblr media
0 notes
floofsnoot · 10 months
Text
MY DAILY DRIVING DIRT DUMPSTER GEN 1 INTEL ASS LAPPY DOESN'T WANNA RUN SHIT RAGGHHH-
0 notes
fabiansartstuff · 1 year
Text
photoshop makes me wanna die sometimes fr
0 notes
simwithshan · 8 months
Text
"Workout" Planner Traditions Mod (PUBLIC - 11/9TH)
Tumblr media
Hey Simmers! 🌟 Get ready to spice up your Sims' lives with the "Workout Planner Traditions" mod – because who says getting fit can't be fun? Let's break down the weekly grind with seven days of wellness awesomeness!
🥦 Meal Prep Day: Make a 8 serving size meal for the days ahead!
🏃‍♀️ Leg Day - Jogging or Treadmill: Time to break a sweat with some cardio fun! Make your Sims lace up those sneakers and hit the pavement or hop on a treadmill for a leg day that's as fast-paced as their ambition.
💪 Arm Day - Workout Machine: If you don't have a workout machine at home, head to the gym! Pump those iron and sculpt those biceps. Your Sims will be flexing their muscles in no time!
🍔 Cheat Meal Day - Have a Snack: Throw the diet out the window (just for today)! Indulge in Sims' favorite snacks or quick meal, because life is too short for constant kale. 🍕🍟🍰
🧘‍♀️ Full Body Day - Do Yoga: Time to find your Sims' inner zen! Whether they're beginners or yoga gurus, this full-body workout will have them saying "om" in no time. Downward dog, anyone?
🧘‍♂️ Body Recovery Day - Meditate, Bubble Baths or Massages: Give those muscles a break and let your Sims find their chill. A little meditation, Bubble Bath or Massage goes a long way to keep them centered and ready for the next workout adventure. (Spa Day Required)
📸 Progress Photo - Take Body Photo: Say cheese! Capture the Sims' fitness journey with mirror pics! Watch the progress unfold! Stand near a mirror & use your phone to take a photo (not a selfie).
Download
3K notes · View notes
boeing-787 · 2 years
Text
iu may not be able to play xivc due to laucnher errors for a few months but hte music keeps em going
1 note · View note
fuckyeahgoodomens · 10 months
Text
Tumblr media
Link 1, Link 2 :)
Digital Good Omens 2 Sountrack is coming out in 4 days! 🥳 CD version in October! :) ❤ Coming soon on vinyl…
Tumblr media
Out to Stream/Download from 25th August. Out on CD 13th October. Coming soon on vinyl…
David Arnold’s ‘end of the world’ complex and multi-genre soundtrack.
From the Award-winning composer of Sherlock and Casino Royale comes a follow up to the hugely successful, Emmy nominated Good Omens soundtrack.
Good Omens series 2 premiered on Prime Video on 28th July. The series follows the odd couple, angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and demon Crowley (David Tennant) in their quest to sabotage the end of the World. The six-episode sequel to the popular adaptation of the novel by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, concerns the Archangel Gabriel (Jon Hamm) arriving without his memories to Aziraphale’s bookshop. Aziraphale and Crowley attempt to find out what happened to Gabriel, whilst hiding him from Heaven and Hell, both eager to find him.
The Soundtrack
David Arnold’s soundtrack to Good Omens was first released in 2019 to favourable reviews, with BBC Music Magazine calling it “a rollicking trip to hell and back”. Blueprint Magazine described it as “a great listen” and Sci Fi Bulletin commented on “plenty of memorable themes” to conclude that “This is another work of art from Arnold”. At times nostalgic and eerie but always varied, beautiful and full of excitement, the Good Omens 2 soundtrack showcases Arnold’s every skill from his composer arsenal. Featured here are orchestral arrangements with sprinkling of Sugar Plum Fairy pizzicato and percussion, jaunty strings and mighty choral sweeps from Crouch End Festival Chorus. Added to the mix are rock guitar riffs, and psychedelic 70s sounds and all together they create a haunting otherworldly feel, complementing the fantasy and the quirky humour of the show. The spirited Waltz of the opening theme is also present in the second series and it wonderfully sets the scene for fantastical mayhem. In series 2, this robust, evocative, and funny music entity, becomes yet again another character in the story. Award-winning composer David Arnold is well known for his blockbuster scores, including Stargate, The Chronicles of Narnia: the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Hot Fuzz, Paul, Independence Day, 2 Fast 2 Furious and Casino Royale as well as for his TV work such as Sherlock and Dracula. Also available: The original soundtrack to the first series of Good Omens >
Tracklist
– Disc 1 – Chapter 1: The Arrival 1. Before the Beginning 2. Good Omens 2 Opening Title 3. Into Soho 4. Something Terrible 5. To The Bookshop 6. Maggie and Nina 7. He’s Smoking 8. Tiny Miracle 9. Heavenly Alarm Bells Chapter 2: The Clue 10. Avaunt! 11. The Song is the Clue 12. It’s What God Wants 13. A Mighty Wind 14. Whales 15. Gabriel Returns 16. His New Children 17. Am I Awful Now? 18. Fallen Angel Chapter 3: I Know Where I’m Going 19. Police Arrive 20. Scotland 21. We’re Going to Hell 22. People Get a Choice 23. My Car is Not Yellow 24. Beelzebub in Hell 25. The Book 26. The Fly 27. Mr. Dalrymple 28. We Need to Cut 29. I’m Going to Save Her 30. Crowley Goes Large 31. Not Kind 32. Beelzebub Isn’t Happy – Disc 2 – Chapter 4: The Hitchhiker 33. Hell-O 34. Nazi Zombies 35. March of the Nazi Zombies 36. Crowley Pep Talk 37. The Magic Shop 38. Catch The Bullet 39. Zombies in the Dressing Room Chapter 5: The Ball 40. I’ll Let You Have It 41. We’re Storming a Book Shop 42. Monsieur Azirophale 43. The Candelabra 44. Here Comes Hell 45. Gabriel Gives Himself Up 46. Shax 47. The Circle Chapter 6: Every Day 48. Bin Through the Window 49. Gabriel Leaving Heaven 50. The Halo 51. Gabriel Revealed 52. Gabriel’s Love Story 53. Leaving The Bookshop 54. Gabriel and Beelzebub 55. Crowley and Muriel 56. I Forgive You 57. Don’t Bother 58. The Biggest Decision 59. The End?
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
2K notes · View notes
river-taxbird · 4 months
Text
Have YOU got an old Windows PC Microsoft has told you can't run Windows 11? It's time to give it a new life!
How to install Windows 11 on unsupported PC Hardware using Rufus. You can also disable some other Windows 11 bullshit like data harvesting and needing a Microsoft account.
It has been in the news a lot lately that Windows 11 isn't allowed to be installed on PCs without certain requirements, including the TPM 2.0, a chip that was only included in PCs made in 2018 or later. This means that once Windows 10 stops receiving security updates, those PCs will not be able to (officially) run a safe, updated version of Windows anymore. This has led to an estimated 240 million PCs bound for the landfill. Thanks Microsoft! I get you don't want to be seen as the insecure one, but creating this much waste can't be the solution.
(I know nerds, Linux is a thing. I love you but we are not having that conversation. If you want to use Linux on an old PC you are already doing it and you don't need to tell me about it. People need Windows for all sorts of reasons that Linux won't cut.)
So lately I have been helping some under privileged teens get set up with PCs. Their school was giving away their old lab computers, and these kids would usually have no chance to afford even a basic computer. They had their hard drives pulled so I have been setting them up with SSDs, but the question was, what to do about the operating system? So I looked into it and I found out there IS actually a way to bypass Microsoft's system requirement and put Windows 11 on PCs as old as 2010.
You will need: Rufus: An open source ISO burning tool.
A Windows 11 ISO: Available from Microsoft.
A USB Flash Drive, at least 16GB.
A working PC to make the ISO, and a PC from 2018 or older you want to install Windows 11 on.
Here is the guide I used, but I will put it in my own words as well.
Download your Windows 11 ISO, and plug in your USB drive. It will be erased, so don't have anything valuable on it. Run Rufus, select your USB drive in the Device window, and select your Windows 11 ISO with the Select button. (There is supposed to be a feature in Rufus to download your ISO but I couldn't get it to work.?
Tumblr media
Choose standard windows installation, and follow the screenshot for your settings. Once you are done that, press Start, and then the magic happens. Another window pops up allowing you to remove the system requirements, the need for a microsoft account, and turn off data collecting. Just click the options you want, and press ok to write your iso to a drive.
Tumblr media
From there you just need to use the USB drive to install windows. I won't go into details here, but here are some resources if you don't know how to do it.
Boot your PC from a USB Drive
Install Windows 11 from USB Drive
If you had a licensed copy of Windows 10, Windows 11 will already be licensed. If you don't, then perhaps you can use some kind of... Activation Scripts for Microsoft software, that will allow you to activate them. Of course I cannot link such tools here. So there you go, now you can save a PC made from before 2018 from the landfill, and maybe give it to a deserving teen in the process. The more we can extend the lives of technology and keep it out of the trash, the better.
Additional note: This removes the requirement for having 4GB Minimum of RAM, but I think that requirement should honestly be higher. Windows 11 will be unusable slow on any system with below 8GB of RAM. 8GB is the minimum I think you should have before trying this but it still really not enough for modern use outside of light web and office work. I wouldn't recommend trying this on anything with 4GB or less. I am honestly shocked they are still selling brand new Windows 11 PCs with 4GB of ram. If you're not sure how much RAM you have, you can find out in the performance tab of Task Manager in Windows, if you click the More Details icon on the bottom right. If you don't have enough, RAM for old systems is super cheap and widely available so it would definitely be worth upgrading if you have a ram starved machine you'd like to give a new life.
Tumblr media
612 notes · View notes
ralfmaximus · 3 days
Text
Something a lot of people are misunderstanding about Windows Recall is that it's not just a thing you can turn off and/or ignore.
Sure, you can disable it. You can avoid Windows 11 completely, run Linux, reinstall Windows 7. All of that.
But here's the thing... other people will be using Recall. Whether intentionally or not, because not everyone has control over their computer hardware (employees, minors, the elderly, the indigent) or some business thinks it's a neat way to spy on their employees.
THOSE people will interact with your facebook/insta/tumblr, read & respond to your emails, process your credit card information, pull up your customer service profile to fix your billing problem, view your appointment schedule at the doctor's office... a thousand use cases where YOUR data is on OTHER PEOPLE'S screens.
And if Recall is running, it'll make a copy of that data.
Okay, so what? Some stranger's computer has my personal information stashed away on it. Big deal.
Except that we live in a world where ransomware & phishing attacks happen all the goddamn time, and it's only a matter of months before somebody's Recall-equipped Windows gets rumbled. Recall databases will get downloaded & sold on the dark web, same as they do now with lists of credit card numbers.
Microsoft really shit the bed this time.
206 notes · View notes
callmearcturus · 7 days
Text
@vmprsm replied to your post “Raw MKV rip of Mission Impossible: Fallout:...”:
Theoretically, if one wanted their own copies of the MI movies safely on a hard drive....where would one go?
​I mean, there is a site where you can acquire a lot of movies via torrent. I tend to use (rot13) 1337k.gb and I got a heavily discounted Windscribe VPN subscription that I use on almost all of my devices.
But my thing is that... I want commentary reels and special features, and sometimes you'll download a movie but the fucking subtitles are either bad or they become desynced over time and I haaaaate it.
So I've been gathering bits and pieces over the past year to get a Plex system going in my house and it works like a fucking DREAM. But it requires some investment. If you just want to have a few local copies of your favorite movies, this is way overkill. But me, I am canceling all of my family's streaming services and pivoting to our Plex.
So what I have for actually getting the files:
Tumblr media
I don't have this model but it's similar to this, a Pioneer External Blu-ray Reader. It sits on a little shelf and is connected to my PC by a USB cable. (I think I got mine for around 68 bucks so you can wait for a sale.)
I use MakeMKV which will rip the big honking raw files from a Blu-ray and leave them as matroshka (.mkv) files.
Because these raw files are ENORMOUS, I compress them in Handbrake. Handbrake is wildly powerful, can convert file formats and make them super small. I have my Handbrake set up special to dump all the non-English language subtitles and audio tracks to save space.
(SUPER BONUS TIP FOR HANDBRAKE: If you have a dedicated GPU, you can give Handbrake permission to use it, and it'll compress shit literally 10x faster, love it.)
At the moment, I am using a Western Digital portable 5TB external harddrive because it was one sale and I couldn't beat the price. Eventually, I want to upgrade to two 10TB HDDs so I can keep a full backup of everything I'm ripping. Because this is a bit of a time and energy commitment and I don't wanna lose all my progress here!
At first I was running Plex off my desktop PC and that worked totally fine, but my family hates having to touch my desktop to wake it up every time, so I very recently grabbed one of these guys:
Tumblr media
This is a Beelink Mini PC S12 Pro. It is small enough to fit in my hand but it is a speedy little demon that runs Windows 11. (And eventually I am gonna use it to firewall out ads from our entire home network, I'm pumped for that project but ANYWAY.)
The upside of these mini boys is that instead of being a hefty workhorse like my main computer, this is small and has a low-power draw.
So I moved my Plex Media Server to the mini PC, plugged in my 5TB drive of movies, and now everyone in the house can easily stream anything I have added to the library.
Tumblr media
This is what it looks like, if you're curious. Any device in the house that runs Plex and is signed in can select any movie or TV show I have and just watch it like it was Netflix or something.
A month ago, I has like.... 65 movies? Now I'm ripping a few and we're gonna break 100 soon.
"But Arc, where do you get so many blurays!"
My local library.
When I lived in Broward County, FL, I had an extravagantly wonderful library system. Tax dollars at fucking WORK, y'all. Now I live in Georgia and the library system is not nearly as good, but I have still gotten my hands on a frankly ridiculous amount of blurays. Every week I'm picking up 3 to 10 movies or shows, taking them home, making good copies, and returning them.
All of this is an investment and it is work. But as someone who built my computer, built my keyboard, cracked my 3DS and PS Vita-- this is fun to me! This is what I love to do. And through doing it, I've seen more movies in the past year than the last ten years put together.
So yeah, I can't recommend this to everyone, but if you wanna get out of your subscriptions and to just have high quality shit on demand, this is what I'm doing.
Cannot stress this enough tho, if this seems interesting to you: wait for sales. All the components here go on steep sale if you wait patiently. Take your time assembling the parts and keep in mind that shit is modular, you can upgrade parts later.
71 notes · View notes
lou-struck · 6 months
Text
Seat 14F
Tumblr media
Atsumu Miya x reader
WC: 1.3k 
~You are peacefully getting ready for your flight home in your long awaited window seat until your talkative seat buddy arrives. 
A/n: I am having so much fun finishing some of these WIPS. I hope you enjoy this one.
Tumblr media
The terminal beneath your feet echoes the hollow yet eager sound that is created by your footsteps. The beige hallway twists and turns until you see a fight attendant gesturing you into the cabin with a large red-lipsticked smile. 
“Welcome aboard,” he beams as you step onto the plane.
“Thank you.” You smile back and readjust the strap on your backpack so it’s tighter to your back and at less of a risk of smacking the others in the face as you pass them. Their crumpled boarding pass is in your hand as they make their way down the long aisle. They had only started boarding minutes ago, but already, you see people slumped in their seats, softly snoring into their neck pillows. 
You are in Seat 14F, a window seat. There is something so comforting about having an extra wall to lean up upon in case you were to find yourself drifting off on this flight. 
Your eyes scan the row makers as you pass,
Row 9, 10, 11, 13. 
Row 14 is completely empty as you come to a stop, sliding past the first two seats on the right-hand side of the plane and tucking your travel backpack underneath the seat in front of you to save yourself from a lecture from the flight attendant later. 
You feel your phone in your pocket as you sit down in your seat, which apparently can be used as a flotation device should the plane come down over a body of water. Knowing you’ll most likely forget to do it later, choose now to turn the device into airplane mode and slip it into the mesh netting in front of you for later. With your phone gone, you choose to entertain yourself by watching out the little oval window as airline workers load the bottom of the plane with everyone’s luggage. 
Peering at the little cart, you try to see if you can spot them loading the suitcases you checked. Your white plastic one and the other one…
“Well, isn’t this my lucky day?” a honeyed voice drawls from behind you. “Looks like I got myself a cute lookin seat, buddy.”
“What brings you here?” you ask, watching as a handsome man with faux-blond hair slides into the seat next to you. He unceremoniously slides a gray backpack underneath his seat before wasting no time in making himself at home. 
“14E,” they beam, flashing you their paper boarding pass. Already, the parchment is crumpled beyond recognition and speckled with droplets of what you assume to be coffee. 
You roll your eyes and send him a playful smile. “Atsumu, I printed that boarding pass for you less than an hour ago. How have you managed to beat it up so badly?��
“Who’s Atsumu?” he asks, cocking his head to the side in mock confusion, obviously wanting to keep flirting terribly with you for as long as he can. “I’m uhhh.” he scratches his head in thought, “Mr. Handsome Stranger.”
You sigh as he continues this little ruse of his. “Well then, Mr. Stranger, have a seat.” You place your earbuds into your ear and try to keep a look of disinterest on your face as you scroll through your downloaded podcast episodes. 
“It’s Mr. Handsome Stranger.” He pouts, his cheeks puffing out comically, and he sits down in the seat next to you. From the corner of your eye, you see him looking at you with the biggest puppy dog eyes he can muster. When they spot something shiny on your finger, they gleam, and you can practically see the cogs turning in that pretty head of his. 
“Well, that’s a real nice ring on yer finger,” he hums, leaning well into your personal space; now that he’s closer, you can smell the mint gum he’s chewing, and you can’t help but wonder if it’s his attempt to cover his coffee breath. 
“Thank you,” you sigh, shifting in your seat and admiring the gem yourself in the light of your small oval window. “I got it from my Fiance.”
“Not husband?” he winks, “I guess I still have a chance with you then.”
You laugh at his terrible flirting like the hypocrite you are. Because that same flirtiness that (unbeknownst to you) is causing the other passengers to cringe in their seats was able to ensnare you over two years ago.
“Is there a problem here?” the flight attendant from earlier comes over with a stern expression. Their eyes narrow when they see the way your goofy fiance is practically on top of you, fiddling with your engagement ring. They make eye contact with you, looking for any kind of discomfort in your expression. “Is he bothering you?”
Atsumu slides off of you and into his seat quickly. His cheeks flush pink in embarrassment. “I-it’s not what ya think.” he starts to explain but he is silenced by the commanding gloved hand of the flight attendant who you now think is one of your favorite people on earth. 
People are watching, listening, just waiting for the moment to step in and rescue you. If it wasn’t some big misunderstanding, you would feel that your faith in humanity was restored. 
But you’re not in any danger, so just for a moment, you may as well enjoy this little in-flight entertainment, 
“Sir, did you know it is a crime to interfere with the takeoff and departure of an aircraft?” they ask with a vicious customer service smile. “Is this behavior of yours really worth jail time?”
“Wha?” No, I was just messing around..” Atsumu says in a smaller voice. His tone pulls at your heartstrings, and you know you have to come to his aid. 
“Tsumu, I got this.” You murmur, placing a hand on his bicep as a grounding touch and giving your would-be hero a genuine smile. “I am so sorry about this; this doof is just my fiance. He likes to use those cheesy lines to make me laugh.”
They look between the two of you with a discerning glance before. “Do you promise?” they ask. 
“I promise.” you laugh, relieved that Atsumu is feeling a bit less freaked out now that he isn’t at risk of being dragged off the plane and thrown in jail for his cheesy pickup lines. 
“Here’s my lock screen.” the volleyball player adds, showing the attendant a picture of the two of you wrapped in each other’s arms after one of his games. “We’re together, I swear.”
“Awe, cute.” the attendant says, shutting the luggage compartment above your head. “Glad you’re not a creep. We are about to take off soon, so don’t forget to put that phone in airplane mode, hon.”
“R-right, thank ya.” he breathes his fingers, fumbling with his slightly cracked screen protector to switch his device. 
“I see; one moment, please,” they hum, turning and walking down the aisle away from seats 14 E and F, leaving the two of you rather confused at his sudden exit. 
They come back a few moments later and sneakily slides two prepackaged snack boxes over to you. The ones that are only available in first-class cabins. This sly gesture of good faith is very much appreciated by the two of you. 
“Thank ya,” Atsumu whispers happily, unwrapping his miniature charcuterie snack. 
“For what? The attendant asks, looking innocent. “You two enjoy the rest of your flight.” With that, they turned and left to do their pre-flight duties. Now alone, you and Atsumu lock eyes and fall into a fit of laughter. 
“Oooh, you almost got in trouble.” you tease, leaning your head against his shoulder.
 “What do ya think plane jail is like?” he hums, fiddling with your engagement ring. 
“Hmm, I don’t know,” you murmur. “It’s not too late to find out, though, if you want to call the flight attendant back.”
“Oh shuddup,” he chuckles, turning in his seat and kissing the crown of your head. “You wouldn’t do that to me; ya like my flirtin’ too much.”
“Whatever you say, baby.” You smile, prepared to spend the rest of your flight in the arms of the man you love. 
Tumblr media
Tagging: @enchantedforest-network
192 notes · View notes
godbirdart · 1 month
Note
Hello! I hope you are having a nice start to your week :) I seem to remember you recommending a certain tablet once and tried looking for it but couldn’t find it. Is there still one you recommend for art? I’ve got an ipad now but I was thinking of trying something different when it reaches the end of its days (but still hopefully a draw-on one). I think I’ve heard some tablets let you actually download programs and not just apps. I would love to just 1-time buy clip studio or something instead of the app subscription Dx
No worries if you don’t have a recommendation, I may have just misremembered. Either way, I hope you have a lovely evening and thanks for sharing your art! ^_^
Oh I can talk tablets for Hours don't even worry
I have a tablet that can download programs and that is this one right here!
Tumblr media
The Huion Kamvas Studio 22
It's been retired from Huion's store for a couple years now, succeeded by Huion's new Kamvas Studio 24; the new, sleeker edition of my 22.
If you're looking for a tablet that can download actual software and not just act as a second display for your computer, you'll be looking specifically for a "Pen Computer". Huion currently offers two - the Kamvas Studio 24 and the travel-sized Kamvas Studio 16. Both come with Windows 11 preinstalled.
Huion also released the Kamvas Slate 10, and while it is categorized as a pen computer, it's designed to compete with tablets like the iPad or PicassoTab and operates on Android 12.
While the idea of an independent computer you can draw on the screen of isn't at all novel, they're still arguably "new" for the companies whose target demographic is artists. At the time of this post, Huion appears to be Wacom's main and only competitor in that field. Artisul, Gaomon and XPpen do not manufacture them. Options for standalone drawing tablets that can download software [not just apps like a phone] are largely limited to:
Huion Kamvas Studio 16
Huion Kamvas Studio 22
Huion Kamvas Studio 24
Wacom MobileStudio Pro 13
Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16
I know I hype up Huion a lot and that's primarily because I have actual firsthand experience with their products, but I cannot stress enough that the Huion can do the job just as well as the Wacom. If you're hellbent on the Wacom, get it when it's on BIG sale, or cheaper secondhand / refurbished. Wacom's MobileStudio line can start at around ~$2600 USD and up, whereas the Huion Kamvas Studio, while still costly, can start from ~$1700 USD. I've seen Kamvas Studio 22s floating around for around $1000 USD which is already $500 off what I originally paid for mine.
Pen computers are one hell of an investment but they're extremely convenient to have. I'm currently saving up for a Kamvas Studio 16 as my travel laptop barely has the power to support Clip Studio and I want to be able to take my work on the go without fumbling around with cords.
To anyone else reading: if I somehow missed the release of a pen computer from another art tablet brand, feel free to drop it in the replies! I'm usually on top of these but I've been so swamped with work the past two months I've barely enough time to check my social media most days lmao
75 notes · View notes
robsheridan · 10 months
Text
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
Sisters of the Solstice, part 2 (start with part 1 here). In June of 1975, photographer Sera Clairmont captured the only known documentation of Sweden's mythical “coven of eternal witches,” (as some local folklore refers to them), and published them in Spectagoria magazine issue 11. These are the last of the pages that have been recovered from that issue.
From Clairmont’s text: “The Sisters are women of ritual. Complex layers of rituals for every occasion have collected upon the Sisters’ insular culture over re-generations like stamps on a well-traveled passport. At no time are the rituals more significant than in the weeks surrounding Midsommar, for that is the time of renewal.
“Each Midsommar season, the Sisters chosen for renewal give their physical shells back to the earth. Some depart in rituals of soil, and their remains are used to decorate the land, often raised to decompose as markers of the Sisters’ territory to scare away any men who dare come near. But some of the women - old souls who require stronger magick to transfer - must give themselves to rituals of flame, and [text illegible due to paper damage] reborn in flame. It is in the flame rituals where one understands the depth of the sacrifices the Sisters have endured to survive for so long without men. At dusk, the [illegible] dangerous ancient dark magick, taking a heavy toll on [illegible]… If any mistakes are made, or [illegible] too weak, [illegible] the soul will never return, [illegible] the wrong soul [illegible] …something else comes back.” [the rest is illegible]
---------
NOTE: Spectagoria is an ongoing work of fiction created by me. This alternate reality horror story is part of my NightmAIres narrative art series (visit that link for a lot more). NightmAIres are windows into other worlds and interconnected alternate histories, conceived/written by me and visualized with synthography and Photoshop.
If you enjoy my work, consider supporting me on Patreon for frequent exclusive hi-res wallpaper packs, behind-the-scenes features, downloads, events, contests, and an awesome fan community. Direct fan support is what keeps me going as an independent creator, and it means the world to me.
307 notes · View notes
seaweedoverlord · 9 months
Text
Tumblr media
LMK WUKONG SHIMEJI
Tumblr media
Do you want a tiny lil' guy walking around your screen while you work? Distracting you the whole time? Well look no further! I bring you the tiny devil that's Wukong!!! As a cute lil' shimeji, of course! You can download this tiny guy for free!
You can pet him, throw him around, dangle him by his feet and well- Yeah. That's. That's pretty much it. He is quite adorable though, no?
You can download him for free, here.
Tumblr media
(Macaque ghost made by Venelona. Not me, I'm just using an image where they are standing next to each other.)
How to download, down below.
Just a heads up though, I didn't do any of the coding or anything, I just drew all the images for the shimeji so the art is fully made by me. Which does mean if there are some technical issues working the shimeji, I would suggest checking out THIS video and NOT sending ME an ask about it.
There are some issues with Windows 11 so the tiny guy may or may not be able to throw windows etc. The video has some tricks that might work for you but it might not(I couldn't get it to work for me lmfao.) Best of luck either way.
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
Download the SHIMEJI folder from the drive.
Extract the unzipped file.
Then double click on shimeji-ee
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
If you want to make your own shimeji, you can download the thing from here. You just gotta replace the img files and BAM!! Tiny gremlin!!
I probably won't make a Macaque shimeji, but if season 5 of LMK triggers my shadowpeach brainrot I might make a shadowpeach couple shimeji with Wukong and Macaque in their cute lil beach outfits.
Like I said, if you have trouble getting shimeji to work, your best bet is asking KonfluxGames, he has a discord where he answers questions sometimes, which you can find the link in the description of his videos.
If you send me an ask that already has an answer here, I probably won't answer sorry kasdfjk
I have a twitter.
I hope you have fun with him!!!
Tumblr media
177 notes · View notes
fieldofdaisiies · 3 days
Text
Tumblr media
Modern AU based on Blue Neighbour by Troye Sivan. Eris and Azriel used to be childhood best friends and in their teens they discovered they have feelings for each other. Beron found out about them and punished Eris and forced him to break the contact with Azriel. But when Beron dies years after, Azriel… songs used for this story: Wild, Fools, Talk Me Down, Youth, Rush, One of Your Girls (all from Troye Sivan) for @azrisweek | azrisweek masterlist | read on ao3 | includes explicit content
Tumblr media
A loud, buzzing sound rings out in the otherwise silent meeting room. Azriel's hand immediately slams down on his thigh, trying to press the silent button of his phone through his suit pants — without success. He needs to pull it out, which is something Rhysand, his boss, doesn't like to see at all.
The phone is in Azriel's hand for a mere second when Rhys's voice echoes through the meeting room, his gaze stern when it lands on Azriel, "No phones in the meeting room!"  
I guess that rule doesn't apply to everyone here because when the baby daddy gets sent a photo from little Nyx, he is rather quick to check his phone, completely ignorant to the no-phone rule, Azriel thinks, but doesn't dare voice. 
He only tips his chin at his best friend and slides his phone back into the pocket of his pants, only for it to resume its vibration against his leg.
Rhys' gaze is still on him, still stern and slightly reprimanding. Azriel decides not to risk it and wait until the end of the meeting. The call can't be that important, can it?
Later, Azriel learns that he was wrong. The call was important, and the news he learns from the accompanying text messages pulls the rug out from beneath his feet. 
Two missed calls and a message appear on his screen alongside some Instagram notifications that now seem very irrelevant. Azriel enters the break room, his phone already unlocked, and opens the messages from his mother. His heart slams to a halt.
Mum: Beron Vanserra passed away in the early morning hours. We are all invited to the funeral on Sunday, 11 am. Greg and I are leaving this evening. Join us, please! Love, mum!
Azriel's hands start to tremble, turning a little clammy. He never considered going home again, not after everything that happened, not since New York had become his new home. 
He opens the chat, his thumb hovering above the letters, unsure how to respond. He doesn't want to leave his mother on read, especially not after a message like this, but he has no idea what to say… or do. 
Azriel: Thank you for the information. I'll consider it.
He shoves his phone back into his pocket and helps himself to a cup of coffee before returning to the meeting room. 
Maybe going home after more than ten years isn't that bad of an idea, Azriel thinks, but he knows it will re-open wounds that have finally almost healed.
And Azriel would see him again. Beron Vanserra's son. Eris Vanserra. And Azriel doesn't quite know if he likes the thought of that. 
How will it go? How will he feel seeing him after such a long time? The last time he saw him, he was seventeen, a boy; now, he is almost 28, a grown-up man. 
A lump the size of a peach starts to form in his throat, and he has difficulty swallowing even the smallest sip of coffee. His hands are still shaky, and breathing seems a little harder now. Azriel's gaze moves to stare at the tiny droplets of rain cascading down the floor-to-ceiling window.
They haven't spoken since he moved away, though the first few years in New York were filled with missed calls from Eris that went unanswered and were eventually blocked. He couldn't do that to him, give him hope, string him along, not when there was so much at risk.
Azriel tips his head to the side to think, to recall a moment in the past, a few strands of hair shifting with the movement. A few years ago, when Nesta, his best friend's girlfriend, downloaded Instagram for him, he found Eris and tried to follow him. The man never accepted his request and left Azriel with no idea what had happened in Eris' life. It makes him feel uneasy. Sad.
Did Eris move away? Did he stay in the village they grew up in? Did he fall in love? Did he marry? Has he fallen in love again?
Somehow, the thought of this makes a large crack appear in Azriel's heart, and he shakes his head a little. He will have his answers soon and then have to live with them, no matter the outcome. He wouldn't be staying long, only for the funeral. He doesn't have to worry or care about Eris for longer than the weekend. It should all be alright–
"Break's over!" Rhysand claps his hands. "Let's continue, shall we?"
Reluctantly, Azriel follows him back into the meeting room, his mind racing with questions he tries to push away. He doesn't want to think about Eris or seeing each other again,- but he can't avoid the directions his mind wanders.
Will they talk? How will they act around each other after so many years? How will Eris speak to him? Treat him?
His string of thoughts –thank God– is cut short when Rhysand directly addresses several questions that Azriel is too distracted and unfocused to answer. Usually, he is perfect at his work, but right now, his thoughts have strayed all over the place. He fidgets with a pencil, constantly flipping it over or tabbing a melody against the tabletop.
In the past, he had no real reason to consider returning home. He didn't have anyone to return home to. His mother moved away with him, and his abusive father left with his new family to settle in the West many years before he'd left that village with his mother. Azriel hasn't heard from his father since their move, which he isn't unhappy about. He is relieved to no longer have such a person in his family.
"The documents are on my desk by Monday, got that, Az?"
Azriel clears his throat and nods. He has no idea which documents Rhysand is talking about, but he’ll figure it out. Now, other things matter more- namely, making up his mind. Should he attend the funeral with his mother and her new husband, or should he stay and leave his past entirely behind?
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Mum: We're leaving at seven. Have you made up your mind? Love, mum.
Azriel has only stared at the text since returning to his loft. It is long past seven now, and he hopes that they have already left. It would buy him more time. More time to consider his decision and think about all the possibilities that could come up when he returns home. When he sees him.
Eris Vanserra. His first friend. His best friend. His first love. His first kiss. His first time. His first heartbreak. 
Returning back to the village he grew up in, to the place he once loved so much and that later hurt him so much, isn't an easy decision. He was a young man then and hoped never to spend a day without Eris. They had made plans for their future that he tried to push as far away as possible in the years after he left but plans that he now remembers.
They often talked about it, relaxing in the meadow below the bright afternoon sun, limbs entangled, lips mere inches apart. 
What if, what if we run away?
What if, what if we left today?
What if we let them fall behind and they're never found?
Everything was good in those moments. Together, they had dreams, hopes of a promising and bright future shared with each other. They wanted to move to New York together, study at the same university, get married, adopt children - but it was all wishful thinking. None of it came true. Azriel went to New York alone because he had to. But nothing was keeping him in his hometown either. No one was holding him there…
Azriel folds a scarred hand over his eyes. The marred skin of his hands still serves as a reminder of his twisted and messed up childhood, a reminder that his step-brothers never faced anything more than reprimanding for whatever they did to him. 
He doesn't allow himself to go down that traumatic path, and he reminds himself that their torture is wholly and entirely over and will remain in his past. He will never see his father, step-brothers, or step-mother again. That won't happen. He wouldn't allow it.
Instead, Azriel thinks back to the day he left and the tears he shed. He cried from the village to the airport, wetting the fabric of his mother's shirt as she held him in her arms and let him sob into her shoulder. The questions that plagued him on that ride to the airport plague him now, and he mulls them over once more:
What if Beron had never caught them? What if they had never fallen in love? What if he stayed and—?
Azriel sits up and wipes a cold hand over his face, brushing back a few strands of hair. A deep sigh parts his lips, and he turns on his phone. The picture of him, Nesta, Gwyn, Emerie, and Cassian staring back at him from the glowing screen
He recalls vomiting the moment he opened the door at the airport, and later, on the plane, he opened up to his mother, telling her everything about his sexuality and Eris. His mother had long suspected that Azriel and Eris had been more than just best friends, but she never said anything, wanting to give him time to open up. While holding his hand on the plane, she told him she didn't care if he liked boys or girls and would love him nonetheless. He will always be her little boy whom she is immensely proud of and loves wholeheartedly. 
Azriel inhales a breath that feels too heavy and too large for his lungs, which have somehow constricted. He starts to type.
Azriel: You don't have to wait for me. I'll take a cab tomorrow morning. 
Instantly, almost as if waiting for his reply, his mother sends a thumbs-up, and then three dots appear. It will take her a moment to answer. Azriel knows this, and he closes his message. In the meantime, he goes on Instagram, flicking through pictures of his best friends and their girlfriends, and with a loud sigh, he closes the app again. All those happy couples…
Azriel lets himself fall back into the bed, groaning when his sore back slams into the pillows. He drops his phone onto the mattress beside him, waiting for the ping of response.
Mum: Alright, Azriel. But let me know when you arrive so we can let you in. We'll be staying at Uncle Devlon's place. Love, mum.
Azriel is now the one to send a thumbs up.
Mum: It will be fine, my dear, don't worry about seeing Eris. I'm sure he missed you just as much as you missed him. Don't be afraid. 
He leaves the message unanswered, trying to figure out how to respond. He isn't particularly afraid or worried. He doesn't know what he feels—too much at once, too little, or maybe nothing. 
Azriel flips his phone away and folds a hand over his eyes, shielding them from the city lights filtering through the window. New York is falling asleep, but he is wide awake, far away from sleeping. 
Deafening silence fills the room, surrounded by darkness; he suddenly realises that he is worried that Eris will ignore him. Concerned that there will only be small talk between them. Worried that Eris has moved on without him and no longer thinks about him like Azriel does. Worried that–
There will never be a future for them. And maybe this is good. Maybe Eris has moved on—of course he has, Azriel thinks. He has probably found a wife or a husband, and perhaps he even has children now. Ten years is a long time; a lot can happen in ten years. 
Azriel's head starts spinning from all the thoughts and questions, so he decides to get up, shower, and start packing for his weekend trip. 
His hair is still damp when, half an hour later, he returns to his bedroom. He dons some sleeping pants and falls into the bed, curling up on his side. His alarm is set, his phone is in flight mode, and his vague but adequate messages to Cassian and Rhysand are sent (he's going on a little trip for the weekend, and his destination and purpose are unrevealed).
A silent tear slips out of his eye, accompanied by a soft sob. One thing becomes apparent: yes, he is going home, but he is not going home to him. He will return to the village he grew up in, but not to Eris. 
The lie he's told himself these past years, that he stopped caring about Eris, that he has stopped thinking about him, suddenly falls apart. Azriel has thought about him. A lot. And he still does. And sometimes, many times, he finds himself yearning for how it once used to be. 
He wants to sleep next to him. And that's all he wants to do right now. And he wants to come home to him. And that's all he wants right now.
He doesn't just want to return to the place he once called home; he wants to return to where he fell in love with his best friend. He wants to return to Eris Vanserra, but not as a man whose heart was broken but as someone who can dare to hope for a future together.
He still wants Eris, and he hates that even after ten years, his wanting has never changed.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Azriel's heart presses down on him like a rock heavy with emotion as he closes the cab door. He waves off the driver with his weekend bag in hand and sunglasses pushed back into his hair. He sets off down the dry path leading into the centre of the village and to his uncle's house. The town is small now, and at 28, Azriel notes how close everything else is- his father's house and, a little further down the path, Eris' family home.
Almost like in a movie, pictures flash in front of his vision—of a childhood that seemed unburdened for everyone on the outside. A childhood that maybe wasn't too warm and loving, but one he shared with Eris. They grew up almost in the same exact way, with loving mothers, brutal fathers who didn't shy back from using violence, and brothers who supported that kind of action.
Azriel's jaw tenses, and he stops, only staring ahead at the houses, the facades weathered and dulled over time, at the village stretching out in front of him. Most things have stayed the same. He can make out the same swimming pools, houses, and living rooms he and his friends used to play in. Unchanged little houses with trees on the hills in the far distance where he and Eris used to spend quiet nights together. 
As he walks a little further, he nears an old garden fence. The colour of it is already crumbling, but Azriel still remembers that it was here, right by this fence, next to the big apple tree, where they almost kissed for the first time.
"Are you finally going to tell me what happened?" Eris raises a questioning brow at Azriel, who scrunches his nose in response, his eyes half-closed due to the bright sun. He holds tightly onto his worn school bag and then says, "There is nothing to tell."
"Azriel, I can see your blue eye; it is quite obvious." He reaches out, his fingers curling around Azriel's upper arm, stopping him from walking. "I thought we would share everything with one another."
Azriel shrugs a shoulder. "It was nothing. I ran into–"
"His fist, right. He hit you again, didn't he?"
Azriel shrugs again. 
"I am going to punch him."
"After I punch your father," Azriel chuckles, but the sound lacks warmth or humour. 
"This is messed up," Eris mumbles and steps closer to his best friend, tipping his chin up with his thumb. "But you need to be honest with me. Tell me when he hurts you so I can be there for you."
Slowly, Azriel starts to nod, but then his eyes drop to Eris' lips. Suddenly, He is so much closer, only mere inches away. Eris' eyes are locked with his but also momentarily slide to Azriel's lips, his Adam's apple bobbing. "We can't do this," Eris whispers, but instead of moving away, he leans closer. Azriel does, too, holding his breath. "I know," he answers, his tone equally breathy. "But–"
Eris's baby brother Lucien interrupted them, calling Eris' name from the porch and then running towards the two best friends. Lucien was only seven years old then, and Eris picked him up easily when he reached them—he must be a teenager now.
Azriel remembers that they were both relieved that their moment ended that way, but only two weeks later, they really kissed, and from then on, there was no more holding back. They kissed a lot back then, but always in secret. 
It was two months later that everything they had and loved ended. It was when Beron's cruelty reached its peak, and he—
"Azriel!" The squeaking of door hinges disrupts his daydreaming. "Didn't I tell you to let us know when you arrive?!"
"Mother." Azriel dips his chin after having turned around. "It's good to see you." He cracks a small smile when his mother throws up her hands in despair. 
"You never listen to me, Azriel Marino!"
"I always listen to you, Mama." After closing the distance between them, he wraps his arms around her shoulders and kisses the top of her head. "Always." 
Eleni Marino harrumphs loudly but hugs her son tightly. "Come in. Your uncle is looking forward to seeing you."
Azriel doubts that. His uncle probably only wants to see if he is still the small weakling he always used to call him. But the joke's on Uncle Devlon because Azriel is no longer small or weak. He has grown a lot, including his muscles, which Devlon probably never thought possible. He has changed a lot, and he can't wait to see the look on his uncle’s face. 
"Uncle," Azriel greets upon entering the living and dining room, his chin dipping to his chest, his voice low. His gaze runs over the old man sitting in his armchair - ten years can do a lot to a man – who once used to be a strong and fit army general, is now an old man with white hair and sunken cheekbones. 
"Azriel," he croaks and rises from his chair. "Let me look at you. You have grown up." He assesses him through half-closed eyes, shuffling towards him. "You've grown a lot, boy. How has college been treating you?"
Azriel wants to open his mouth to say that he dropped out of college after the first semester and decided to work instead, but when he meets his mother's gaze, she shakes her head, and it tells him everything he needs to know. 
"College is good. Got good grades and made friends," Azriel says instead, knowing that to keep the peace here, it is wiser to lie a little. Devlon would only ask why he dropped out and then blame them for not having enough money to afford it. Consequently, he would blame Azriel's mother for not working hard enough to make studying at a uni possible for her son. And then blame her for not staying with his father. Abusive or not, it had never mattered to his uncle. So, this small white lie has to do. 
"How's life been treating you, Uncle?"
Devlon shuffles away, wiping his mouth with his hand, and plops down on the armchair again. "Good, good," he mumbles, pulling a blanket over his lap and leaning back. Azriel is sure he dozes off a moment later so he turns back to his mother with a chuckle. 
But there is no amusement on her face. Looking worried, she reaches out her arm to clasp Azriel's hand. "Lunch will be ready in around an hour. Go see him now."
Azriel's throat bobs, his fingers naturally curling tighter around his mother's hand. "What if he doesn't want to see me?"
"You'll only find out if he wants to see you if you go to him. Otherwise, you will be plagued with what-if questions and doubts for the whole weekend. Go see him and talk to him. I'm sure he has missed you just as much." Eleni inhales deeply, "After all, you also used to be best friends at one point."
Best friends and so much more, Azriel thinks. Slowly, he begins to nod, his hands having turned cold, his heart feeling a little heavier, and his feet are somehow rooted to the ground, making it impossible for him to move immediately. He needs just a moment longer, holding onto his mother's hand like he is once again the young man who was sobbing into her shoulder when they left ten years ago. 
"Go now, Azriel. I'm sure he's still at the chapel, preparing everything for the funeral tomorrow."
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
With his heart rapidly pounding, Azriel walks down the familiar path to the chapel he used to take many times when he still lived here, his mind swirling with memories. Every step he takes feels heavier as he nears the old house of prayer, wondering if Eris will truly be there. 
He has mindlessly followed his mother's suggestions and now doubt gnaws at him about whether he should have come. Uncertainty clouds his thoughts, and nervousness tightens his chest. What if Eris doesn’t want to see him? What if he ignores him? What if he is mad at him? 
Will he even recognise him after all these years?
Of course he will, Azriel thinks. He hasn't changed much. He has only grown and built up some muscles. His face is still the same.
His heart nearly breaks through his ribcage when he reaches the door, the crisp air burning down his throat with every inhale. For a moment, he feels like fainting or throwing up, but then his hand reaches for the door handle and pulls it down. The door opens slowly, too slowly, and silently. So silently that Eris doesn't notice him. 
He is standing at the altar, arranging some flowers, and for a moment, Azriel forgets how to breathe. 
Eris Vanserra is more beautiful than ever, breathtaking, to say the least. Azriel can't tear his eyes away, slowly letting his eyes run over the man in front of him, and his knees wobble. Eris has cut his hair, but not too short. He also gained some muscles and now wears a beautiful beard that perfectly complements his look.
Azriel stops on the threshold, unable to move further, hand still on the door. 
"Stop that!" Azriel playfully smacks Eris' hand away, lying on the grass, laughing.
"A flower in your hair would look cute."
"I am not cute," Azriel grumbles, sliding his hand into Eris '. The red-haired boy lies down atop his chest and tips his head back to look up at Azriel. 
"You are cute." Eris grins.
"Stop being cheesy."
"Never!" Eris smoothies his freckled hand up Azriel's chest, humming contentedly.
In the middle of this meadow, in the middle of nowhere, far from their village, they are safe. They have taken their bikes to get as far away from prying eyes as possible. Only here can they be true to themselves and love each other more deeply than friends love each other.
"Eris," Azriel hums, lifting the hand that isn't in Eris's hold to brush it through his boyfriend's auburn locks. "You make my heart shake, bend and break. But I can't turn away. And it's driving me wild. You're driving me wild."
Eris hums softly. "I love you, but why do I only find out now that you are one to spout poetry?"
Azriel's laughter rings out over the meadow…
It was probably the last time he had laughed so happily and freely. This moment was beautiful, as was the whole day. Azriel remembers that this day was also when they first slept together.
When he finally catches himself, his hand lets go of the door and he takes one step into the chapel. The inside is cold, and the scent of polished wood, aged hymnals, and candles lies in the air, mingling with the aroma of incense that adds a touch of spice.
Azriel inhales deeply, bracing himself for what he is about to say. A simple greeting, nothing spectacular, but he has no idea if he is ready for it. For whatever is about to follow the greeting. 
But he doesn't have to speculate. Not when Eris has already noticed his arrival.
"I didn't think you would come." He places a candle next to the flowers, then steps back from the altar and turns to Azriel. His eyes run over Azriel slowly, and small flames flicker in Eris' eye. "But here you are. After ten years."
Azriel nearly chokes on his saliva, but in a croaky voice, he manages to say, "My mother—" only for Eris to interrupt him.
"Of course, your mother told you to come here," the red-haired male cuts in. "Of course, she is the reason you are here. She has always checked in. For the past ten years. Has always sent messages for Christmas and my birthday." A small, nostalgic smile appears on Eris' lips, and he wipes his hands down his thighs, clearing the soil and petals from the flower arrangement. 
Azriel didn't know that, and it infuriated him that his mother had never told him—how dare she! How dare she keep contact with Eris and never tell him?
"Don't make it sound like a reprimand," Azriel grumbles. "I wasn't the one to break up–"
"You know why I broke up with you!" Eris counters.
"Because you were a coward."
A snarl parts Eris' lips, hurt flashing in his eyes, and at the exact moment, a pang of hurt pierces right into Azriel's heart. Is this truly how their first meeting after ten years goes?
"Says the one who didn't reach out a single time in all those years." A look of disgust spreads over Eris' face. He shakes his head and then approaches Azriel, stopping right before him. "Not one time."
"I tried to reach out, but you wouldn't accept my request on Instagram!" Azriel snarls,
"I don't even use this app," Eris retorts, "My little brother's girlfriend downloaded it for me, thinking it would be a good way to socialise and maybe meet a partner."
Azriel doesn't really know what to answer. He hoped their first meeting would be different after such a long time, but he had false hopes. Of course, it would go exactly like this. He should have reached out. He should have called, texted, come here, something. 
But he didn't and now must pay the price for it. 
"I didn't forget about you. Is that what you want to hear?"
A cold huff parts Eris' lips, followed by a cynical chuckle. "Hm, too bad that I did. And now I've got things to do. As you might know, my father died." He brushes past Azriel without saying another word, shoving the brown-haired male by his shoulder, and heads for the chapel door. 
He doesn't give Azriel a chance to say something. A moment later, he is gone, and the door falls shut, a tremor coursing through Azriel at the loud pang. 
He is taken right back in time. To the fateful day when his whole life fell apart. The day when Beron–
"I bet you're already hard for me." Azriel chuckles softly, his hand placed on Eris' bare chest, slowly travelling lower until it rests right above Eris' crotch, only the blanket and Eris' boxers separating between them. His lips find the spot right beneath Eris' ear that makes his boyfriend elicit the most sensual noises. Azriel loves those noises and could listen to them forever, so he lets his teeth run over Eris's sensitive skin, then pokes out his tongue and licks it. 
"Always," Eris hums, hips jerking in response to his boyfriend's touch. 
When Azriel's lips ascend, placing a trail of kisses up his boyfriend's throat, he slides his hand beneath the blanket, palming Eris through the fabric of his boxers. 
Their lips meet in a frantic kiss, tongues fighting for dominance when he lets his hand slide beneath the fabric, but—
But the door slams open only a blink of an eye later, rattling the whole room. Beron barrels inside, seething with anger. 
He most definitely drank a lot at the bar beforehand. He should have been longer, a few more hours.
Azriel only remembers a little of what Beron said to them, but a few words stuck. 
"This is disgusting," he spits. "You disgust me!"
He hurdles for the bed, but both boys are unable to move. He is too shocked about Beron catching them and worried about what will happen now that he knows.
"What do you think you are doing, Eris Vanserra?" Beron shouts, pulling Eris up by his arm, and it doesn't take long for the first slap to land upon his face. "Rolling around in bed with a boy! You disgust me." He slaps him again, this time harder.
By now, Azriel is out of bed as well, screaming at the man to let go of his boyfriend and tugging at Beron's arm, but the man is more muscular. He shoves Azriel away; the young man knocks his head against the bedframe, and his vision goes black. Pitch black. Just like his heart, nothing but void filling the place that once used to beat happily for his boyfriend.
The moments after are a blur of consciousness and unconsciousness, and the next thing Azriel remembers is Eris breaking up with him, his face bruised and marred by markings of Beron's anger.
His throat is dry when he leaves the chapel, the back of his mouth aching. He couldn't help him back then because Eris didn't let him. He broke up with him and pushed him away — Beron prohibited them from ever meeting again. He claimed that Azriel had ruined his son, called him all kinds of homophobic nicknames, and threatened to destroy his mother's life should he ever try to get close to Eris again. 
It was the most devastating moment of his life, surpassing even the time when his brothers burned his hands. Beron’s cruelty inflicted wounds on his heart that would never heal.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Azriel's sleep is restless, constantly rolling from one side to the other, the sheets tangled between his legs, his bare chest coated in cold sweat.
Moonlight filters through the curtain-framed window, casting the room in a gentle, blueish glow. It's still night and nowhere close to morning. 
He raises his hand, letting his fingers coast over his lower lip. 
"You need to smile, Az." A grin, reaching from one ear to the other, spreads over Eris' face while he is staring into the camera. "You are always so broody."
"I'm not!" Azriel snaps and playfully shoves his elbow into Eris' ribs who yelps.
"Idiot!" 
"Say that again!" Eris turns to his best friend, and his breath catches. He reaches out, but stops himself.
"Idiot," Azriel chuckles and moves closer.
"Again." Eris leans in, eyes fluttering shut for a second, then dropping to Eris' lips. 
"Id—" Eris' lips close over Azriel, but instead of pulling back, he kisses him right back, his hand falling to his neck, bringing him in a little closer. All hesitance is erased within seconds; there is only Eris on his mind—and his lips.
At first, their mouths meet clumsily, but soon they find their rhythm, lips parting, tongues exploring, tangling, and dancing. Eris places his hands on Azriel's hips, formally having kept them at his side, and that a little awkwardly. He draws Azriel closer, deepening the kiss and eliciting a soft moan from him.
"Not just best friends, huh?" Eris mumbles when pulling back from the kiss. A string of saliva still connects their lips, which he wipes away with the back of his hand.
Tears build up in Azriel's eyes. "I'm in love with you."
"I know," Eris answers, his thumb wiping over Azriel's cheek, catching some stray tears. "And I'm in love with—"
"Fuck!" Azriel rips away the sheets and sits in bed, his whole body feeling clammy from the cold sweat that had built up due to his vivid dreams. He knows he can't stay here, and he knows exactly where he needs to go. He just needs to see Eris and talk to him. He can't let the conversation from earlier hang in the air like this. He needs to fix what he ruined. 
Grabbing the sweater he had earlier discarded in the room and donning it, he is out of the door before he can question his decision to go see Eris. He slips into his shoes as silently as a gazelle and then out the door, hoping his mother won't wake and question him about his whereabouts the following day. 
Azriel straightens up when he walks down the path leading to the gate at the end of the garden. It creaks a little when he opens it, but he ignores it, only one target in mind: Eris. He still knows the way to Eris' place like the inside of pockets. (Maybe a little suspiciously, he queried his mother in the afternoon about whether Eris still lives there, and she confirmed it, so he knows exactly where he needs to go).
Azriel feels a sudden surge of energy – he wants to talk and fix what has been ruined this afternoon. And in the ten years he was absent. 
He walks faster through the large, looming trees, their branches bending in the wind and leaves rustling and swirling. 
Azriel remembers that Eris's favourite season always used to be autumn, and maybe this is a good sign. It is autumn now, visible everywhere outside.  
But his blood runs cold, and his heart slams to a halt when his eyes land on a scene that also twists his gut. Hot and thick, jealousy bubbles up inside him, making the back of his mouth taste bitter.
"Well," Eris laughs, his features bright and joyful, his arm wrapped around the blond male's shoulders. "Thank god I have you."
Tamlin, if Azriel remembers correctly, flashes Eris a big grin. It makes the content of Azriel's stomach sour, and bile creeps up his throat. He can't believe that he truly lost his first love to him. This spoiled, rich prick!
"You are so lucky, Vanserra, to have me. What would you do without me?"
"I guess I would be hopeless," Eris laughs, pulling back his arm and letting it fall to his sides. "Thank you so much, really. For the arrangements, I couldn't have done them all alone, and with you being the best–"
Azriel can't make out the rest or hear what comes after best, but he can only guess that the word that belongs at the end of the sentence is boyfriend. Or worse, husband.
He can't believe it, and in his fury, and by trying to get closer, Azriel doesn't see a more prominent branch on the ground. His foot catches on it, causing him to trip and twist his ankle as he falls. "Fuck!" Azriel groans when his hands come in contact with the damp soil, and then pine needles pierce his skin. "Fucking bastard!"
He sits back on his heels and knows the moment he does, it was a big mistake. His ankle hurts like hell, and he has to bite down on the insides of his cheeks to keep from loudly alerting Eris to the fact that Azriel's sneaking around.
This is all so fucked up, Azriel thinks, and only wants to cry. 
>>>>>>>>>>>>
"There you go," Eleni hands Azriel a new cold pack, then lets her hand rest atop his head. "You should have woken me, I didn't even hear you fall."
"I tried to fall silently," Azriel answers sarcastically and groans when he shifts on the couch. His ankle has swollen significantly overnight; stepping on his foot hurts insanely, but he wouldn't let it show. And he would most definitely never reveal what exactly happened. Another small lie – he tripped at the staircase when he got himself something to drink during the night. 
He doesn't know if his mother truly believed him, but she didn't ask any further questions, and Azriel is more than grateful for that. 
"I've been meaning to take a little boat ride with you, Azriel, but I guess we can forget that now."
As if good old Devlon could still ride a boat, Azriel thinks. "What a shame," he says instead, glancing at his uncle but then back at his ankle and the cool pack. The outer ice layer already starts to melt, and small droplets of cold water run down the sides of his foot. 
Devlon doesn't say anything; a few minutes later, he asks Azriel's mother to follow him outside. They leave, and after checking if Azriel is alright with being alone, Eleni goes back into the kitchen to continue with lunch. 
For a moment, Azriel wonders what his stepfather eats when his mother isn't there. Who cooks for him? Or does he order food or eat at his neighbours?
Honestly, Azriel doesn't care, so he rests his head on the pillow again, gets comfy, picks up his phone, and finds a few unread notifications. Most are from Cassian, who sent him photos and videos or tagged him somewhere. He decides to ignore them for now and clicks on the message from his good friend Gwyn. 
Gwyn: Karaoke at 7, my place?
Azriel: Sorry, I can't.
Gwyn: ☹️
Gwyn: Are you brooding? 
Gwyn: Should I get the romance movies out and come over to your place with some ice cream?
Azriel: You‘re not funny, Berdara…I'm busy.
Gwyn: Busy? Busy how? Are you on a date? 😏
Gwyn: 😏😏😏😏
Gwyn: Is he hot? Send a pic if he is!
Azriel places his phone screen down on the couch table and blows out a long breath. He lifts his gaze to the window, where he sees his uncle and stepfather standing outside in the garden, discussing something about the old cherry tree. He hears his mother in the kitchen, still cooking, and knows he has a bit of privacy.
He picks up his phone and clicks on Gwyn's name. Her lovely smile pops up on his screen when it rings, and then her voice sounds through the speaker, and Azriel lifts his phone to his ear.
"Hey!" Gwyn says, her voice tinged with a hint of worry. "You're alright?"
"I went home."
"Home to your apartment? Or home like…Massachusetts home?"
"The latter."
"Oh god!" Gwyn's voice is loud and tinged with surprise. "I'll ask again, are you alright?"
"I guess I am, I–"
"Eris?"
Just like his other best friends, Gwyn knows about his past with Eris. It wasn't too easy to open up, but on an emotional night together on his rooftop terrace with quite a bit of alcohol in their blood, he poured his heart out to his friend. 
"I thought our first time seeing each other after such a long time would go differently."
"I'm sorry, Az," Gwyn mumbles sadly. "But I think you just need time. Maybe you can ask Rhys if you can stay a little longer?"
"I don't think it will help much." Azriel inhales a deep breath and sighs loudly. "Ten years is a long time, Gwyn. And not checking in with him once…it hurt him more than I could ever imagine." He lets his head fall back into the pillows.
"I understand, and I know that it is a damn long time, but if you still love him, it doesn't matter," Gwyn answers.
"It isn't weird that I still love him after such a long time?" Azriel asks, heart aching so much he folds a hand over his chest.
"Nope," his friend says, popping the p. "The heart wants what it wants, and if two souls belong together, they will eventually find their way back to each other. It isn't weird that you still love him; your first love will always play a big role in your life."
"Thank you."
"There's Nothing to thank me for, Az. Go get your man now." Her laughter is radiant even over the phone, and it gives Azriel the energy he needs to take the next step and do as she said: get his man.
"You think you can make it to the funeral tomorrow or– oh, I am so sorry, I didn't know you were on the phone." 
Azriel places his phone down and shakes his head. "The call just ended, and yes, Mama, I can."
He has to. He didn't come all this way to stay in his uncle's home.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Another sleepless night follows the previous one, and as silly as it might seem to anyone who finds out about it, Azriel leaves Devlon's house once again in the middle of the night. This time limping, though. He drags himself down the staircase, which seems so much longer when you have a torn ankle. He manages to open the front door as silently as possible and slips through it. 
It is the only chance he gets. The funeral is the following day, and then he will leave again. He has to talk to Eris, having been a coward all afternoon.
Once again, he is met by the crisp night air, only the sound of the wind dancing on the lake nearby and rustling the leaves of the large, looming trees in his ears surrounding him. 
Picking up a few pebbles, he heads to Eris' family home. He walks down the small concrete path he has walked probably over two thousand times in his life. It still looks almost the same; a few trees have been cut down during his absence, but other than that, the buildings, the pavement, and the fences are still the same. 
Azriel allows his gaze to stray, looking into some front yards. Even in the dark, he can make out the small swimming pools and swings. He remembers how he and Eris often met up at night, sitting on the swings in his uncle's garden, talking for hours about anything and everything. 
They mostly only returned to their homes when the sun started to rise and slept until midday (of course, that was only possible during their breaks). 
Azriel smoothes his hand through his hair, his heart having and picking up speed the closer he gets to Eris' place. Yesterday he was stopped, but tonight they will speak. His ankle still hurts, but he barely pays any attention to it, so focused on all the thoughts and questions in his mind. 
What if he never moved away? Would they have found a way to be together and maybe already be married now? 
He knows this is a silly fantasy, but one that is so beautiful it almost draws tears to his eyes. He can imagine them being married. He can imagine it so perfectly and loves the thought of it—and that even after ten years. 
He and Eris fell asleep within each other's arms every night, waking together, having breakfast together, going to work, and then spending the evening together. And that on repeat for as long as they live. 
It is what they always dreamt about back then. And it is what Azriel still thinks about now. It felt like that with no one he dated in the past ten years. He never felt like that. He never felt like he would love to spend the next 50 years with them, but with Eris?
With Eris, he can imagine everything.
His heart is racing like a wild horse when he enters the front yard of the large house, half of it swallowed by the large, looming forest behind it. They playfully used to call Eris' home Forest House when they were children, but when Azriel considers it now, he has to admit it really applies to it – it is a forest house.
He circles the house until he reaches his destination, still knowing exactly which window belongs to Eris' room. He climbed through it many times in their teen years, sneaking in in the middle of the night to–
Azriel cuts off his thoughts and turns his attention back to the pebbles in his sweaty palms. His gaze lifts to the window, and before he can stop himself, the first pebble slides out of his hand and strikes. Silence follows. He throws another. Then another. And another. 
He is about to give up, his heart crushing in his chest, pressing down on his stomach, when a light flickers on in Eris' room. Eris appears in front of his window and glances outside, his long red hair tousled, and he is only dressed in thin sleeping pants. 
Azriel lifts his arm, waving, and it takes Eris a moment to adapt to the dark and then spot him. He opens his window, shakes his head, and grumbles in an annoyed voice, "Go home and sleep!"
But Azriel won't give up that easily. "We need to talk." He is too stubborn to give up this time.
"So you can call me a coward again?" Eris huffs loudly.
"We need to talk about us," Azriel presses.
"At three in the morning?" Eris braces his hands on the windowsill, leaning closer. "My father is getting buried tomorrow, I need to sleep."
Azriel swallows his nervousness and worry, and his hands ball into fists, crushing the pebbles. "Please, Eris. Please, listen to me."
Eris steps away from the window, and Azriel's heart drops, just like his shoulders. The light in Eris' room goes off. 
Then there is nothing but silence and darkness. The darkness creeps in around him. The wind howls, and a shudder courses through Azriel. He is shaking when he bends down to pick up some pebbles again, his ankle aching fiercely, but it is nothing compared to the pain inside his heart. It hurts so much.
But he won't give up like that. Not so easily. He messed up the previous day and in the years prior. This is his last chance, and he is going to take it. 
The moment he lifts his hand, ready to throw another small stone, the house's back door suddenly opens. 
Azriel's breath catches, and he feels like his knees will give in at any moment. 
There he is. Having donned a thin tank top, Eris stands in the doorframe, his eyebrow raised. "Talk."
Azriel takes a step forward, trying to act as if everything is fine. "I am sorry for calling you a coward." He limps another step forward, grinding his teeth hard to bite back on the pain. 
"Okay," Eris answers tightly, then his gaze dips, and he looks at Azriel's very obviously swollen ankle. "I assume that happened when you tried to spy on me Friday night? Did you see what you wanted to see?" Eris raises a brow, crossing his arms over his chest, the muscles in his upper arms rippling with the movement. 
"I wasn't spying on you."
"Of course, Spymaster." The corner of Eris' mouth kicks up when he uses the nickname some kids gave Azriel in their childhood. He always used to spy on the adults and steal cookies and cakes when they didn't look, earning him this title. Azriel has completely forgotten about it, and his lips part in silent surprise. 
"I went for a walk."
"At three in the morning?" Eris closes the back door behind him. "That's a normal time for people to take a walk."
"You were also taking a walk with your boyfriend."
"Boyfriend!" Eris almost shouts, then starts to laugh so hard he has to bend over. It infuriates Azriel, and he braces himself for hearing Eris say something like: "He is my husband, you dumbass."
"Tamlin is not my boyfriend." Eris has calmed a little and now approaches Azriel, his bare feet padding softly over the cool, dewy grass. "He is my best friend, and this guy is as straight as a pole and married to Briar. I'm not sure if you remember her."
Azriel can barely swallow around the lump of shame in his throat. "You are not–"
"No, Azriel. But why do you care?"
"Why do you think I care?"
"Yes, this is what I am asking, Azriel. Why would you care? When you didn't care enough to call a single time?"
"You'll never let me forget that, huh?" Azriel spits.
Eris closes the distance between them faster than Azriel can breathe and is in his face the next moment, forehead pressing against his. "Because it broke my fucking heart. It tore me apart and left my soul in shards on the ground. Because I loved you, and you just left me when everything fell apart."
Azriel's heart breaks anew. "Mum was moving away with me; I couldn't have stayed here alone."
"But you could have called."
"You broke up with me." Azriel flattens his palms against Eris' chest, feeling his warm skin despite the cold night air against his palms. But he doesn't push Eris away; he only rests his hands on his ex-boyfriend's chest. "I couldn't reach out again."
"Why?" Eris growls. "What hindered you? I thought you used to love me."
"I did love you," Azriel answers honestly. "That's why I couldn't reach out again. Beron hurt you so much because of me. He forced you to break up with me. He punched you bloody that night, Eris, I haven't forgotten about that. He broke your collarbone." Azriel swallows thickly, tears filling his eyes. "When I think back to this moment, I still hear your cries, I still see the blood–I couldn't let this happen again. You needed to get rid of me, and that for good." 
"Azriel…" Eris breathes, and it seems as if he doesn't know how to continue. 
Azriel's head starts to spin suddenly, having finally revealed the secret he kept to himself for the past ten years. He has finally given Eris the reason for his ignorance, and it feels like a heavy weight is lifted from his chest. 
"You were too good to be good for me." Azriel's breath tingles Eris' skin, his gaze dropping to his lips. "You deserved so much better. You deserved someone else, someone better. You deserve someone better." Azriel looses a long breath that cascades down Eris' throat and his chest. "But that doesn't mean that I have stopped thinking about you." 
"I haven't stopped thinking about you either," Eris admits, voice equally breathy, his hand sliding around Azriel's waist, bringing him closer. "Night and day, you have been on my mind. No matter what I tried, no matter who I was with, it was always you on my mind."
"It was always you, Eris." Azriel's Adam's apple bobs. They breathe the same air, their bodies almost flush against one another. And yet, it feels as if there are millennia between them. The time they have missed.
"Why haven't you told me before?"
"Because I was worried about you. I knew you would find a way to get to me and reach out, and if Beron found out–" Azriel inhales a long breath, his eyes close. "I never knew loving could hurt this good. And it drives me wild, 'cause when you look like that, I've never ever wanted to be so bad; oh god, you are still driving wild, Eris."
"You are driving me wild, Azriel," Eris huffs. "Showing up here like that, looking like that, and–fuck, I still want you the same way. Is that even possible after such a long time?"
Their lips meet in a hasty kiss, and their feet, even Azriel's injured one, move fully on their own accord until Azriel's back is pressed against the wall of the garden shed. Eris' hands vigorously roam his body, tongues tangling when their mouths open to one another. 
Eris' hands and lips still know their way around, and it truly drives Azriel wild and insane. He feels like he is once again getting drunk on the taste of Eris, on the feel of his body against his own, and it seems like a fever dream that this is truly happening. 
"You still want me, Eris?" Azriel breathes, their lips only parting for a slight second.
"Yes." Eris pushes against him, making him feel exactly how hard he already is, only from a few kisses. "I've never stopped wanting you. No one felt like you. Nothing felt like being with you. It was only ever you. And still is. I've wanted to hate you so much for leaving me alone, but I failed."
"I'm glad you did, because I did too. I failed at trying to forget you, at stopping to love you."
Eris' lips kiss a trail down the side of Azriel's throat, teeth grazing his skin softly and eliciting soft sighs from his former best friend. "You want me now?"
"I always want you, Eris," Azriel pants. "I have always wanted you."
Their bodies move fully on their own accord, guided and driven by sheer desire and need, the longing that has grown so much and so stark over the time they were apart. And after asking for Azriel's consent, there is no more holding back for Eris. For either of them. 
Eris lowers himself to the ground, kneeling, and starts to toy with the button and the zipper on Azriel's jeans. They ignore the fact that they are outside, in the garden where people could see them. Their need for each other right here and now drowns out every little part of rationality. 
After freeing Azriel's already half-hard length, Eris strokes him a few times, loving the soft, breathy gasps that leave Azriel in reaction to his doing. He smooths his hand down the hard length of his shaft, the skin yet soft beneath his palm, and then parts his lips. 
"Ten fucking years," Eris rasps, tongue swirling to collect the bead of liquid already gathered at the tip before fully sucking him into his mouth.
He works him softly at first, and Azriel finds himself moaning at the feeling of his cock engulfed in the wet heat of Eris' mouth, his hand falling into his long red locks, tugging softly at first. Eris begins to suck harder and move his mouth a little faster; his hand grips the back of his mouth, holding on tightly. 
Using his mouth and hand together, Eris hollows his cheeks and holds eye contact with Azriel, which is everything he needs to tip him over the edge. He bucks his hips into Eris' face until he comes with a shout, and Eris greedily swallows around him, drinking him down like he has been a starved male for centuries. 
"Fuck yes!" Eris expresses when he sits back on his heels. He locks his hooded gaze on Azriel, his hand wiping over the drool and Azriel's come running down his cheek. "I've missed this."
"I missed you," Azriel answers and bends down, reaching for Eris to bring him in for a kiss, but cries out when his ankle twitches again. 
>>>>>>>>>>>>>
"You regret what we did?"
"No," Eris answers tightly, carefully tending Azriel's ankle and applying the last bit of cream still on his fingertips. He wipes them clean on a cloth hanging from the table and picks up a bandage. Before he continues, he adjusts Azriel's leg on his lap. "No, I don't."
The moment Azriel cries out in pain, Eris immediately knows he needs to take care of Azriel's leg. He drags him inside the house to examine the injury despite Azriel's protests. Only a minute later, they ended up in the kitchen of Eris' home, now sitting at the dining table that is still familiar to Azriel, with only a small oil lamp lit on the kitchen counter.
"But why are you so calm then?" Azriel asks, hoping to catch his eyes, but Eris keeps looking at his ankle.
"I am just thinking…"
"About?"
"About us."
Us. It still sounds so beautiful, and when Eris says it, it gives Azriel hope.
"What did it feel like…going away, I mean." Eris lifts his eyes for a brief moment, hoping to catch his gaze.
Azriel sighs loudly. "It was awful. The first days, weeks, months. I only cried. I made new friends in New York that helped me out of my misery, but that doesn't mean I didn't miss you daily. I always thought about you and knew you were feeling the same." He wipes a hand over his eyes. "I knew that if I called you, I would only make it worse. For both of us. There was no way we could see each other again any time soon…"
Eris nods slowly. "I gave up at some point. I called a few times, but you never answered. Then, Beron forced me to delete your number and all the pictures I had with you. I could save a few on my computer, but the rest was all gone."
"All of our silly videos and photos?" Azriel asks and places his hand on Eris'. The man nods in answer.
"I'll try to find them on my old phone. I'm sure I still have it somewhere." A small smile appears on his lips and a little light returns to his eyes. "Also, those with your little brother." Azriel chuckles softly. "How is Lucien?"
"A menace," Eris breathes. "He was a sweet boy until puberty hit him with full force. He was all about girls and his appearance, but he still did well in school. He has been dating the same girl for a few years now. They got together when they were fourteen and are still going strong. She might be his soulmate. Elain, she's a sweet girl."
Azriel smiles at that. "I'm glad he's doing well."
"Yeah," Eris sighs. He deserves a good life. "He will be here for the funeral. He said it is a kind of closure."
Azriel nods slowly. "Did he move away?"
"No," Eris answers, "but he spends every other weekend with his biological dad." 
Azriel remembers the little affair, the unspoken story of how Lucien and Eris only share a mother. Eris found out about it very early on and obviously told Azriel. Back then, they shared everything with each other.
"I'm glad to hear he has contact with him now." Azriel inhales deeply. At least someone has luck with their father, he thinks. 
Eris smiles, at least a little, but it doesn't reach his eyes. "I've always hoped you would just show up here again someday. I even thought about going to New York, but I thought I would make a fool out of myself – suddenly showing up in the big city with hopes and dreams for us while it was possible that you were already married or at least had a partner."
A breathy chuckle leaves Azriel. "I was dating a few people in the ten years, but it never felt right. It never felt as right as it did with you."
"I know what you mean, Azriel. I know this feeling." Eris inhales a long, deep breath. "I've always thought it was because you will never forget your first love, and somehow they will always be important to you, but I now know that it is because there is no one in this world like you. I fell in love with you because you are my counterpart and everything I could and would ever hope for in a partner. I fell in love with everything about you, and no one would ever compare to you."
Azriel's fingers curl tighter around Eris, and he leans in, kissing his lips softly. "No one compares to you. I fell in love with your charm and wonderful character and soon realized that no one is like you. You are one in a million, and finding someone like you…I was the luckiest idiot on this planet until I ruined everything."
"Beron ruined it."
"I did, too." Azriel shakes his head. "I shouldn't have given up that easily. I should have fought for us. I should have fought Beron for you. I should have fought for our future."
Eris swallows thickly, a tear rolling down his cheek. "I broke up with you; maybe I shouldn't have given up that easily, either. Let's agree that we both made mistakes and didn't do everything right, but this was in the past. Let it be in the past and focus on the future."
"Can you forgive me so easily?" Azriel asks, his heart heavy, his stomach churning. He bites down on the inside of his cheeks.
Eris' shoulders lift with a deep breath. "I can, if you can forgive me for everything I've said."
"I can." Eris nips at Azriel's lips, then lets his forehead rest against Azriel's. "You will go back to New York tomorrow, right?"
"I'll ask my boss to allow me to stay a little longer," Azriel whispers. "He is one of my closest mates. He won't say no." He kisses the corner of Eris' lips. "But yes, I will have to return in a few days. I have my work there and…I can't give everything up there so easily."
"I know. I wouldn't want you to give up everything there." Eris' eyes close, and his heart sinks into his gut. He wants to leave with Azriel and move to the big city with him, but can he leave everything here behind so easily? 
He has no job at the moment, as he has been taking care of his ill father in the past months and had to take leave and then quit. It wasn't easy, but working as a doctor before earned him a bit of money that he had on the side, which tided him over the months. So technically, he could start anew in the big city. But that would mean leaving everything here behind: his mother, his brothers.
"My apartment in New York is definitely made for two people, so…" A hopeful smile appears on Azriel's lips. 
Eris smiles in return; this time, it reaches his eyes, where hope and anticipation spark to life. 
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
"Are you ready?" Azriel looks at him, holding eye contact, although Eris seems to find reciprocating difficult. 
Beron has never been a good father, but the funeral day isn't easy. Beron was still his father, and from time to time, they had good moments, moments where they could laugh and smile together. But those days were sparse. 
He inhales a deep breath and exhales loudly. "I am."
Everyone is already inside; he and Azriel are the only people still left outside. The funeral will only begin when he enters, so he allows himself this time to breathe and collect himself, knowing he is not missing anything inside. 
"I really am." He nods slowly. "You will sit with me?" Eris swallows thickly. "Stay with me?"
"Always," Azriel answers. I will never, ever leave you again." He pulls down the door handle, and they enter together. They stroll down the aisle leading to the altar together, their steps synchronised until they reach their bench, where Eris' mother and two of his brothers are already sitting. 
Azriel's hand naturally slides into Eris when he sits down beside him. The pastor steps onto the dais, and piano music starts to sound from the back of the chapel. 
"I'm here for you, Eris," Azriel whispers, not turning to look at Eris but staring straight ahead at the coffin. "Forever."
"Forever?"
"Forever. Move to New York with me." 
Eris doesn't give him a verbal answer, only squeezes his hand in response, yet a slight smile that feels so out of place for a funeral appears on his lips. Always sounds just too good. Especially when it means forever with Azriel.
Tumblr media
general Azris tag list (please let me know if you want to be added/removed): @azrielsbabyg @lady-riel @moonlightazriel @aayo-whatt @brekkershadowsinger @ladyelain @banasheefan56 @a-frog-with-a-laptop @ofduskanddreams @acourtofladydeath @secret-third-thing @born-to-riot @chunkypossum @talibunny30 @berryzxx
thank you so much for beta reading @pippsmcgee and @moonlightazriel 💛
38 notes · View notes
a-spawn-on-my-lawn · 3 months
Text
Quick tip for my fellow (Asti) artists for the perfect reference :D
You don't need to know Blender for this except for some tiny basics that you can learn in less than 30 min!
Download Blender. It's free and amazing.
Download this Astarion model as .blend file.
Unpack the ZIP and open the .blend file with double click. It should open in Blender automatically when you have installed the software. (I probably renamed the file so don't worry.)
Tumblr media
4. Once opened in Blender, look for the globe symbols on the top right of the window and click the middle globe "Viewport Shading".
Tumblr media
5. You should now have something like this:
Tumblr media
Don't get distracted by the camera, the lights or the shlong, you won't need any of it (probably)
6. Go to the top left of the window and make sure "Object mode" ist activated.
Tumblr media
7. Pick the "Modeling" tab.
Tumblr media
8. Click on the Asti. You can zoom in and out with mouse wheel. You can navigate by pressing the mouse wheel alone and move the mouse or pressing mouse wheel + shift.
9. On the very right, there should be an area that is called "Scene collection".
Tumblr media
Navigate to this window and click on the eye symbol next to "Astarion Armature" to make sure it is visible if it isn't yet.
Tumblr media
10. Make sure you still have object mode activated. Click on the "Astarion armature". Now you should see a lot of orange fancy thingamabobs around Asti.
Tumblr media
11. Now it is important that you navigate to the "Object Mode" tab and pick "Pose Mode".
Tumblr media
You will now see that the thingamabobs (his rig) will become colourful. Perfect, almost done :D
Now it is time for Asti to strike some Poses!
Click on any of the colourful lines (Some are not able to be moved, but you will figure out which one does what).
In this example, I picked the rig for this arm/wrist:
Tumblr media
On the left side of the window, you should see a toolbar that looks like this:
Tumblr media
If the toolbar is not there, simply press "T". All we basically need are these two:
Tumblr media
If you pick one of these an click on the parts of Asti's rig that you want to move, you can move them up or down with the arrow option ("Move") or rotate them in any direction with the option below the arrow. ("Rotate").
Let's rotate Asti's hand:
Tumblr media
I click + hold the red line and move it upwards.
Tumblr media
EASY GOING! this is honestly basically it. Play around with it a bit and you will get the gist :)
You can really get him into any pose you like, it may be a bit fiddly to find out if you are new to Blender, but it is totally worth it :)
Tumblr media
This is not only a great ref tool for Asti artists, generally he makes a remarkable ref for studying the male anatomy, facial structure, hand poses and so much more :)
I hope my little tutorial was helpful to you, I usually don't make tutorials so I hope I was able to make it somewhat comprehensible 😅
I just really wanted to share this because it was a real game changer to me. :)
If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments/DMs etc.
Also here's a dope Blender beginner tutorial:
youtube
Happy painting/modeling!! ♥
54 notes · View notes
cityof2morrow · 4 months
Text
Fusion Build Repo
Tumblr media
Published: 2-11-2024 | Updated: N/A SUMMARY The original Fusion build set from Simgedoehns (Tolli, 2010) has been remade and simplified for easier use in your game by Kiri (2016). In this version, I’ve added 20-ish frame recolors (CuriousB, 2010), made items visible in neighborhood view, and reposited the glass to my Plain Glass Repository mesh (Simmons, 2023) to give you more color options and less files to manage.
Tumblr media Tumblr media
DETAILS Requires all EPs/SPs. You need the Glass TXTR Repository from the Repository Pack (Simmons, 2023). Frame recolors come from the garage door, door, and window – these files have “MESH” in their names and are REQUIRED. You can only have one version of this set in your game at a time. Manually replace other versions if you use this one. DOWNLOAD (choose one) from SFS | from MEGA
Tumblr media
CREDITS Thanks: Simming Community, Kit Kat Crew. Sources: Any Color you Like (CuriousB, 2010), Beyno (Korn via BBFonts), EA/Maxis, Fusion Build Set (Tolli, 2010), Kiri’s Repo of the original Fusion Build (2016), Offuturistic Infographic (Freepik).
56 notes · View notes