Animated segment of Abby and Rudy from a dancing themed episode of Sesame Street. I like the 4-armed juggle-muppet, they're cool. :)

Francis Drake Main Story

Translations may not always capture the exact nuances or tone of the original text. Expect grammatical errors.

Blank, ageless, and suspicious blogs will be blocked.

The worry about the vampire hunter increased, but as Drake and everyone else said, we continued to live our daily lives as usual.

One afternoon, I walked to the university carrying a meal for Isaac.

I lowered my gaze to the basket lid, ensuring that its contents were hidden, and remembered my conversation with Sebastian.

------------Flashback-----------

Sebastian: "Shall I be the one to deliver Isaac's meals for a while? You seemed concerned about the vampire hunters."

(Sebastian's concern is appreciated, but...)

Sebastian already handled more tasks in the mansion than I did.

It would be pathetic to keep asking him for a favor just because I was scared.

Mitsuki: "It's okay. I'll handle the deliveries since they don't really check the packages."

---------Flashback Ends---------

(Yeah, there's no need to be jittery about this.)

As I recalled that and turned a corner, I heard a sudden, loud voice.

???: "You think you can just steal from me, you brat!"

The sudden, loud voice echoed around the area, startling me.

(That surprised me. I wonder what's happening.)

I looked towards the commotion and saw a shop owner grabbing a girl's arm.

(That girl...)

------------Flashback-----------

Drake: "I knew it. I thought something like this would happen."

Girl: "Let go!"

---------Flashback Ends---------

(Right. She tried to steal my wallet the other day.)

The girl still had those sharp, animal-like eyes, just as she did that day.

Townsperson 1: "It seems like that kid shoplifted."

Townsperson 2: "Bad upbringing, I tell you. What are her parents even doing?"

The people around them frowned and whispered about the girl.

Girl: "I didn't do anything! Let me go!"

Shopkeeper: "Stop lying. I know you hid it in this bag."

When the shop owner pulled the bag the girl was wearing, the bottom ripped open, causing several apples and oranges to roll onto the ground.

Shopkeeper: "Look. This is more than just a prank. I'll hand you over to the police."

The girl, unable to come up with an excuse, glared at the shopkeeper.

Girl: "It's your fault for chit-chatting with that guy. You're practically asking me to steal with all those openings!"

Shopkeeper: "What did you say!?"

The shopkeeper's face turned red, and he raised his hand threateningly.

(Oh no!)

I rushed forward and embraced the girl, squeezing my eyes shut in anticipation of pain. But then suddenly, I heard a defiant voice.

Drake: "Hey, ease up on my little fawn there."

Mitsuki: "Drake!"

I raised my head and saw Drake stop the shopkeeper's arm.

Shopkeeper: "What's the deal with you guys? Are you this kid's family?"

Drake: "No, I have nothing to do with this kid. I just stood up for this overly kind lady here."

The shopkeeper's gaze turned toward me.

Mitsuki: "I-I'm not related to this child either. However, I cannot overlook violence against children."

Mitsuki: "I'll pay for the things she stole, so could you let it slide this time?"

Girl: "----!"

Shopkeeper: "I'm the victim here. I won't be satisfied until I teach her a lesson."

Drake: "Come on, old man. I get where you're coming from, but Mitsuki's only protecting the kid."

Drake: "And if that's the case, I can't back down either. So how about putting your fists down?"

Shopkeeper: "Grgh…"

Drake continued to effortlessly hold the shopkeeper's arm while wearing a faint smile.

(He's smiling, but why do I still feel a sense of intimidation?)

Eventually, the shopkeeper lowered his fist, reluctantly took the money I offered, and returned to the shop.

The onlookers dispersed, seemingly losing interest, and the town regained its peaceful atmosphere as if nothing had happened.

As Drake picked up the fallen fruits, I asked the girl who was looking down at the ground.

Mitsuki: "Hey, I'm Mitsuki. What's your name?"

Karen: "Karen."

Mitsuki: "Karen, I'm glad you're not hurt."

Karen: "Why did you help me? And even pay for it?"

Mitsuki: "I couldn't just leave you alone. It was my own choice, so don't worry about it."

Mitsuki: "But what you did was a crime. I can't always protect you from that."

At this, Karen stuttered slightly.

Karen: "My family, well, my mother is ill and needs food."

(For her mother's sake...)

(If only she had someone reliable to turn to, she probably wouldn't resort to shoplifting.)

Right then, the only thing I could do was pay for the fruit she had taken.

It was frustrating, but I still managed to offer a smile.

Mitsuki: "I hope your mother gets better soon."

Karen: "........."

Drake: "Here you go, kiddo. Make sure to take care of these on your way home."

Drake handed over the fruits, and Karen, still looking down, softly spoke.

Karen: "Um, you see..."

Mitsuki: "What is it?"

Karen: "I'll have some money soon. I promise to pay you back when that time comes."

Mitsuki: "Okay, I understand. It's a promise."

I watched Karen as she ran off, full of energy, promising to meet by the banks of the Seine River in three days.

Mitsuki: "She must be worried about her mother. It's not easy for a child to earn enough money."

Drake, who was also watching her small figure, muttered beside me.

Drake: "Mitsuki, I might be meddling, but I don't think that kid will come."

Mitsuki: "Huh? But一"

Drake: “You can tell she’s lying just by looking into her eyes.”

He’d mentioned before that he had done similar things in the past, but...

Mitsuki: “We won’t know until that day comes.”

Mitsuki: “We made a promise, so there’s no harm in giving her the benefit of the doubt.”

Drake: “So you’ll try to believe in her, huh?”

He furrowed his eyebrows and gently bumped his knuckles against my forehead.

Drake: “More importantly, it’s dangerous to run off like that in such situations, little fawn. You surprisingly don’t think about the consequences.”

Mitsuki: “Ugh, I’m sorry. My body moved on its own.”

Mitsuki: “Thank you for helping me, Drake.”

Drake: “Well, it’s fine. It’s something I did on my own, so don’t worry about it.”

Drake chuckled as he mimicked the words I said to Karen earlier.

Drake: “If something happens to you, it’ll be boring from now on.”

Mitsuki: “Boring? What do you mean?”

Drake: “Exactly what I said.”

He stepped closer and gently lifted my chin.

Drake: “I’m very interested in you, so I want to keep watching you by your side.”

(........)

Not knowing how to respond, I watched as he raised both arms and stretched.

Drake: “Well, I’ve had my break, so I should probably get back to work now. What about you, Mitsuki?”

Mitsuki: “I was on my way to deliver lunch to Isaac.”

Mitsuki: “Crap, I ran earlier. I hope the sandwich didn’t fall apart.”

I looked into the basket, and...

(Huh?)

The sandwiches seemed to be fine, but I noticed a discrepancy in the number of rouge.

(It used to be three recently, but today there are only two.)

(I properly closed the basket and didn't drop them like last time.)

I looked around, but I couldn't find any bottles.

(Come to think of it, Isaac mentioned that he's going to be less busy soon and will come home early.)

Maybe he reduced the rouge for that reason?

Drake: "Is something wrong, little fawn?"

Mitsuki: "Oh, uh, nothing. The sandwich is fine."

Drake: "Well, that's good. Next time, you should bring me some, too."

Mitsuki: "Sure! I'll put your favorite stuff in it. What do you want?"

Drake: "Meat. Definitely meat. Well, fish is tempting too, but meat."

We chatted as we continued walking side by side.

After parting with Mitsuki, Karen checked the alley to ensure there were no people around.

Then she looked down at the fruits in her arms.

Karen: "Haha, I scored. Those idiots really believed I had a sick parent."

Karen: "But I was happy that person stood up for me."

Remembering how Mitsuki hugged her just before the shopkeeper was about to hit her, Karen's eyes trembled slightly.

But she shook her head to dispel those unsettling feelings.

Karen: "Hmph, they're just easy targets. Besides, this time, I really managed to get something valuable!"

Karen reached into her pocket and pulled out something she had discreetly stolen from Mitsuki's basket. But it wasn't something valuable.

It was a small bottle filled with red liquid.

Karen: "What is this, juice?"

As Karen furrowed her eyebrows and gazed at the bottle, multiple footsteps approached and stopped in front of her.

She looked up to find several men in long cloaks with swords at their sides standing before her.

Man: "Girl, what is that thing you have?"

Karen had no idea that these men were vampire hunters.

Previous Part ╎ Masterlist ╎ Next Part

Hah, haven't done this in a while. Tagged by @notabuddhist

Ages ago admittedly, but then I lost the tab in my pile of tabs.

1. are you named after anyone?

Yep! A few people actually. Millicent comes from my great auntie Millicent. A ferocious and seriously impressive lady. I only met her a few times due to being several continents apart, but she always amazed me. I'm somewhat also named after Millicent from Ozy and Millie, the excellent comic by Dana Simpson.

My middle name Alice also comes from my Grandma. It's actually her first name though she typically goes by her middle name. Plus I like the association to a good friend and to she of Alice in Wonderland.

2. when was the last time you cried?

I think about a week ago? I've been rereading the exceptional Old Addictions Die Hard by @logjammer9000 and there are quite a few parts that made me sob. Indeed a big part of why I started my third reread is the most recent chapter included a character death that had me absolutely sobbing. She knows exactly how to destroy me it seems.

3. do you have kids?

No, but I'd love to. It's gotten harder (being trans is a complicating factor), and I often worry that I won't get a chance, but I really would love to be a Mum. On the plus side my sister is interested in having kids and I would be pretty happy to be a cool aunt to them.

4. do you use sarcasm a lot?

Hm. I don't think so. I think I did when I was younger, as I seem to remember having that as a reputation? but can't recall specifically.

5. what sports do you play / have you played?

Tennis and Basket Ball. I think the tennis was mostly just learning not matches, but it was outside school so I think it counts. The basketball was matches, and our team were....not amazing. But I really enjoyed it and it was crazy how much better I was at it than people who didn't play (crazy to me because I assumed I was bad) when I tried it out later.

6. what's the first thing you notice about other people?

Hrm. I'm not sure there's like, a body part or w/ever I go to consistently. It's mostly just 'do they have any distinguishing looks that make them look a bit queer', otherwise my attention often doesn't last long. Y'know, cool jacket, tattoos, pins, coloured hair, that sort of thing.

7. what's your eye colour?

Brown. I used to dislike that cause it was 'boring' and 'normal' but I think it's a fairly nice shade.

8. scary movies or happy endings?

Yup! Love scary movies, all about that. Love happy endings too, big sap for stories where things are just, nice. Doesn't even necessarily need stakes some of the time.

9. any special talents?

I'm bad at complimenting myself so I sorta just don't think I'm good at anything? I'm a bit of a jack of all trades and can pick things up pretty quickly. And generally do them reasonably well when I get a chance to figure it out. I can be really good at retaining instructions and then teaching others (was complimented on this recently so I can ignore the internal criticism).

I also think I'm pretty good with people. Listening to them and empathising when needed. I've been told I have capybara energy which I think is pretty special.

10. where were you born?

Misread this as 'were you born' and was wondering why Macbeth was fishing for information.

I was born in Arica, in Chile. I have few memories from there, mostly from when I revisited at age 5. We left after about 2 years.

11. what are your hobbies?

haaaah. Well. All of them.

I draw and paint; I crochet and knit; I like building models; I do puzzles; I game; I run & rock climb; I write; I like making things in general regardless of medium; I paint miniatures; I make games; I play TTRPGs (mostly D&D).

Not all the time, but those are hobbies I like and where I haven't done them in a while I intend to return to them when the mood takes me.

12. do you have any pets.

Yes! I have an absolutely adorable cat named Kita. She's a princess and meows a LOT and likes to sit on my chest while I work.

I also just recently got a puppy! His name is Ozy (officially Ozymandias King-of-Kings). He's a bit of a terror at the moment due to the puppy madness, but I adore him. He's the softest and cuddliest thing you've ever seen and when not mad, he's a pretty chill and snoozy guy. Also real smart, it's a danger.

13. how tall are you?

Last I measured I was 5'11. That was before the hormones though, so it's possible I'm shorter now.

14. favourite subject in school?

I loved anything that let me be creative. I got a lot out of creative writing, photography, painting etc. Sadly didn't really pursue many into the later parts of schooling as I went with the uni required English Lit which wasn't creative and was just reading and analysing which I didn't like. Some good teachers tho. I also loved Programming (the class had a few names) and was pretty decent at it. Also what I do now for a living.

15. dream job?

Ahhh, I'm currently struggling with this personally! I don't really know. The work I do is...fine. It pays well and keeps me engaged at least some of the time. I was liking it more because I got them to give me a 4 day week. But I found the income hit hard and am back on 5 days and hating it.

I think my current dream would be to run a Bookshop/Event Space. Somewhere fairly cosy with room to host like queer community events, or D&D games or that sort of thing.

That or some kind of artist/writer.

By Way of An Apology: Part 1

A follow up to The Grand Hunt - the Losstarot lords and the Aubemarle twins go on a picnic.

Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

(Written with @escherstrange-ffxiv; my eternal gratitude for her long suffering patience and the lending of her Losstarots. I love them with all my heart.)

~*~

Sunlight illuminates the dining room so brightly that Joshua squints as he rifles through the picnic basket. "Morel salad, cockatrice meatballs, urchin loaf, Sohm Al tart…" 

He counts each one while nudging each into its own corner in some attempt to keep them separated in the picnic basket. It's nothing compared to what House Aubemarle’s cook can whip up, but their cook hasn't worked for them for over thirty years either.

Birdsong is rare in frigid Ishgard since the Calamity, which is why Joshua had suggested to Oudine that they take a carriage to the North Shroud. “The Bobbing Cork is so well-guarded you will forget the Ixal exist, and there are pavilions to watch the spring blooms within its grounds. You have my word that our picnic will be a peaceful one.”

He searches for his brother who is inspecting the chocobo carriage outside along with his bow and arrows, counting and hoping he won't use any.

The young lord hopes this will be more than an adequate apology, loading the basket under the carriage seat.

~*~

“There you are, milady - I'm sure it should hold for the entire time you're out.”

Before her glass, Oudine turns her head a little to see what she could of the low braided bun. Secured with a number of artfully hidden pins, a lace ribbon had been threaded through it. Wisps of hair had been allowed to escape, the tendrils hanging loose round the sides of her face.

“I never cease to be amazed, Eddy,” says Oudine with a beaming smile. “Though I'm obliged to wonder at the lace.”

Eddy tuts. “Picnics and lace never go amiss, Lady Oudine. And you are nowhere close to your dotage, so I'll not hear anything of you being ‘too old’ for it.”

Oudine laughs easily. “Very well, seeing as it's such a fine day, I shan't argue.”

Eddy looks at her mistress with satisfaction. Ever since her return from Tailfeather and the alleged dragon attack at Falcon's Nest, the viscount had been preoccupied with all manner of paperwork and arrangements of some kind. It is good to see her looking so carefree for a change.

A knock on her door, and the permission to enter, admits a tall figure whose hair had needed a fraction of the time to dress. 

Remont, handsome in a dark red waistcoat, linen sleeves rolled to the elbow and black trousers, leans in the doorway with an air of mock-exasperation. It would have had devastating effect on anyone but his sister and her lady’s maid. 

“Dine, must we really bring the table orchestrion? And those rolls too? That's just more weight with all the other stuff. We're going on a picnic, not moving to the Bobbing Cork.”

Oudine glances at Eddy who just grins, then looks at her brother wryly. “You're the one who 

wanted to bring the rods and reels and your bow and arrows. Not to mention, you wrangle Chocobos for a living - a small instrument is hardly any burden.”

“Aha, so you admit it: I'm the one who'll be carrying the thing about.”

She rolls her eyes though she's smiling, getting up from her dressing table. “If the brothers Losstarot insist we bring no food - not even eclairs - we should at least provide some entertainment.”

“What, you don't think I'm entertaining enough for all of us?”

“I think you'll eat, nap and then harass the denizens of the river with your fishing rod, ignoring the rest of us.” She pauses as they all head out of her room, descending the stairs. “I assume there's a river by the name.”

Remont laughs. “By the Twelve, Dine, how have you never been there? I would think cousin Valtin at least would have kidnapped you on a day trip.”

She colours in embarrassment. “I was ill the one time our cousins went, if you recall. It was awful to know everyone had gone and I was stuck here with a head cold.”

Remont pats her head. “Poor darling,” he coos, then chuckles when she swats his hand away. “We'll even have you in Gridania any day now, just you wait. Speaking of which…” he grins, seeing Marceaux glide to the front door. “I do believe our hosts are here.”

~*~

Joshua stands alone at the door while Isillud waits by the carriage talking to the crow perched on his gloved hand. He adjusts his waistcoat and straightens up when the door opens. 

"Good morning Marceaux, would you inform Oudine her royal carriage has arrived?"

Fury be thanked that Marceaux has almost perfected total control over every facial muscle he possesses, or he might have actually smiled at this. He merely bows, poker-faced, saying, “At once, milord. The Viscount and Lord Remont are-”

“Right here,” interjects Remont cheerily from behind Marceaux. He gives a wave and a grin. “Give us a minute to bid la grande dame goodbye! Marceaux, load the various sundries into the carriage, won’t you? There’s a good man.” Oudine waves beside him, offering Joshua a brilliant smile, before quickly disappearing inside.  

Marceaux appears to also have perfected control over his subordinates since the two footmen left in the Aubemarle house appear from nowhere, picking up the various boxes and bags to further laden the royal carriage outside.

It doesn’t seem possible but the Aubemarle siblings do reappear in only a few minutes, still in high spirits for two people who’ve just had an audience with the Dowager. 

“Goodbye, Eddy!” calls Oudine as she leaves the house. 

Eddy waves from the doorway. “Have a lovely time, miss!”

Such is Oudine’s excitement that she forgoes her usual formalities, slipping a hand familiarly around Joshua’s elbow when she meets him at the carriage. “I’m so glad the weather turned out fine - it’s perfect.”

Remont saunters over, already enjoying the prospect of a leisurely day with good weather and pleasant company. He grins at Isillud and Wil. “Thank you for coming to get us, cousin. I’ve packed rods and reels enough for us, so I look forward to some good fishing.”

~*~

Joshua would have offered to help Marceaux, but the footmen pick up the boxes and bags before they even open their mouths. Seeing the amount of bags piling up begins to make Joshua slightly concerned. "They're not planning to stay for a week at the Bobbing Cork, right?" He asks his brother, meeting him at the carriage.

"I think they're just not used to travelling light," Isillud answers, occasionally pointing at places where the footmen can stack the remaining bags. "Remont does seem to let Oudine indulge."

"You talk about Remont like you know him well," Joshua's brows knit slightly, "Were you close before I was born?"

Isillud's ears take on a fine shade of pink as he glances at Wil scraping and examining its feet while staring back at him. "...Somewhat."

Joshua doesn't get the chance to ask further as Oudine skips out and loops her hand around his elbow. He almost pulls back in surprise but thankfully stops himself in time. "Hopefully the weather stays this way, but even if it doesn't I've packed something that should help pass the bells." He puts a finger to his lips, curled up in a knowing smile.

Isillud sucks his breath. "Fishing, right." He is not the one who spent their formative years next to the La Noscean waters. "I'll cheer you on when you trounce my brother with the larger fish."

~*~

Oudine raises both eyebrows, amused by this show of secrecy. She'd not seen such a look on Joshua's face till now. It would be good to get to know him and Isillud a little better, in easier surroundings than formal balls and parties, or her mother's drawing room.

“I have faith in you, Joshua,” she says smilingly, letting herself be helped into the carriage, even if her pants and boots don't make it necessary. At some point, they had fallen into the habit of using each other's first names, though the Viscount had yet to work up the gumption to ask Isillud if she too could call him Izzy, like her brother does. Maybe today, she thinks.

Remont gets in to sit beside her, looking over at the younger Losstarot with a grin. “Would the Shroud hold enough interesting catches after you've crossed the Rhotano?”

Joshua laughs. "I'm no fisherman but I think even the most seasoned fisher will tell you the Navigator never reveals all her secrets at once." The carriage driver wakes the chocobos and they begin the journey past the gates. "Which is to  say, of course, there are myths that lurk in the waters of the Shroud, who knows if we're lucky enough to debunk one today?" 

He looks between Isillud and Remont then asks, with light cluelessness, "Isillud seems to speak of you with some amount of fondness, were you close before I was born?" 

Isillud chooses to look out the window and admire the white blanket of snow draping Coerthas's scenery.

In the opposite seat, something in Oudine goes extremely still, though she knows well enough to keep smiling. Trust your brother. You must trust him. And then perhaps throw him off Ishgard when he's not looking.

Remont blinks once, twice, glances at Isillud's serenity, and bursts into laughter.

“I'm glad,” he says, choking a bit, “that Izzy has fond memories of a distant relation!” He wipes a tear from his cheek. “We were close at a certain point, yes, but our acquaintance began after your birth.”

Remont looks over at his sister with a grin. Oudine's smile slips, when she sees the twinkle in his eye, and fills her own eyes with meaning only a twin could.

Don't you dare.

But it would be so diverting.

No.

Remont returns a beaming smile to Joshua. “I remain fond of your brother of course, as I do of you, and the rest of my cousins. I'm quite glad, frankly, about our reunion. Are you not?” 

Oudine bites the inside of her cheek, both to keep from laughing and from jumping out of the carriage.

Isillud's face sinks deeper into the hand propping up his head, hiding his mouth from the others, staring intently into the snow as if he's on the lookout for stray Ixal or bandits.

It doesn't take Joshua long to figure out what happened. You. Fucking. Slut.

Green eyes narrow into slits, observing and judging Isillud so hard the Fury would object, but lest it sour the mood before they even reach the borders of the Shroud, he laughs along with Remont. 

"Of course! You're the closest thing to family we have now, and I'm glad we get along. Really. Truly." He then weaves his fingers together, the webbed parts locking into each other. "You've got to keep family close, right, Izzy?" He beams at the other grey Elezen.

Isillud chokes, quickly looking at Joshua with a mortified expression. "Wha-"

“I think,” says Oudine smoothly, sliding a hand onto her brother's, and giving him a very quick pinch, “sometimes it's easier to love one's family when one is away.”

Remont, wincing from the admonishment, gives her a sideways glance. “This is about me isn't it?”

Oudine removes her hand, putting it back in her lap. She gives him a knowing look. “Do you really think you'd be able to weather Mamma with so much grace as you do now if you weren't in Dravania half the year?”

Remont pauses to consider this then shudders. “No, quite right. I would be guilty of matricide.” When Oudine frowns, he quickly adds, “I'm exaggerating of course.”

She turns to Joshua. “I'm also glad you've returned to Ishgard, and chose to reconnect with us. Though… I wonder if I might ask an impertinent question.”

"Certainly Oudine. There are no secrets nor impertinence between us." Joshua side-eyes Isillud with a barely-concealed smirk. "Right, Izzy?"

Oudine doesn't quite know how to interpret this interaction, or what to make of this dynamic. But they had worked together to help Rewelle, she is sure of that at least. There may be some things she will never know for certain, but one thing has caught her curiosity since the start of their reacquaintance with the Losstarots.

She hesitates, then asks very gently, “I'm sorry to cause any pain by asking, but… do you know anything about your eldest brother, where he might be or if he is… alive?”

The brothers look at each other, then quickly answer in unison: "He's all right."

"Has a business in Radz-at-han. Very successful." Joshua nods and smiles.

"His daughter's well, but his wife died fleeing to Ul'dah via Gridania. Very tragic." Isillud adds almost immediately.

"He's rich."

"Everyday people clamour at his house for succour."

"Whatever that is."

"Whatever it is he's giving, it works."

They give a final decisive nod. "Yup." Neither seem entirely keen to elaborate, though Joshua softens the cut a little with, "I'm sure he won't mind if you send him a letter."

"Just don't let your mother know."

The speed at which all of this is conveyed throws Oudine somewhat off-balance. Sydney, alive and a widower? A successful businessman in Radz-at-han, a place so far-flung from her, it may as well be on a different star altogether? But their youngest brother is the head of the house?

She offers a dazed nod. “I… I see. Then that's a relief, to have all of you well. I'm glad. Yes, ah, perhaps a letter later on.”

"It's indeed the Fury's blessing that we are all alive," Joshua replies. "If you're wondering, Sydney relinquished his role to me. We agreed that I would be the most suitable to bear the family name, being one with the least questionable reputation." For all his refreshing speech and demeanour Joshua maintains his knives well. Isillud however seems unaffected, accustomed to his brother's ways by now. 

Remont laughs a little at Oudine’s reaction, less fazed by surprises of this kind both by nature and by experience. “I've to admit I've not been to Radz-at-han myself, and not many in my acquaintance can tell me much of the place either. What is it like?”

"Colourful. The aroma of spices in their food will make your mouth water, and that doesn't include the men." At the last part Isillud has a wistful smile on his face, thinking of a past tryst.

"From the humid tropical climate to its spicy food and colourful streets, it's an entirely new culture to experience. You wouldn't expect such a place between dreary Garlemald and Othard, but it is what it is." Joshua chimes in. "And that's not counting the progress they make in alchemy. I hope you’ll be able to visit when you're able, Remont. The stories you'll be able to tell are priceless."

Oudine’s brow wrinkles a little, hearing Joshua speak so bluntly. Though Isillud doesn’t seem to mind, and it clearly has been an established fact, it doesn’t seem quite fair to her to keep bringing it up. Excesses or no, he is still Joshua’s brother, the one with one metaphorical hand on the shoulder guiding him through the rifts and valleys of their highborn circles. 

But then, she thinks, she doesn’t know Joshua’s personal principles nor any relevant history that would have him speak so. And they are family within a closed carriage. Perhaps he thinks it safe to speak freer than he would at a highborn gathering. Either that, or a couple of months in Ishgardian highborn circles have yet to teach him the wisdom of restraint, especially when it comes to one’s allies, something that her five years as Viscount has taught her is a precious asset.

She keeps her thoughts to herself, and lets her brother talk more. He asks the Losstarots for more details of Radz-at-han’s food, culture, its alchemical dealings and yes, its men too, receiving far more information than he could have hoped for. Those dark brown eyes of his spark with enthusiasm, and Oudine predicts she’ll eventually receive a letter from the East. Not so soon perhaps since he had promised to stay in Ishgard for as long as she needed, but he would surely get there in time.

“And the women?” asks Remont, purposefully ignoring Oudine who raises her eyes to the heavens. “Are they as colourful as their menfolk?”

Isillud blinks. "I didn't notice."

Joshua doesn't miss a beat. "All the same, but our experiences are bound to differ." He glances out the window and beckons to Oudine. "Look, we're in the Shroud now." Snow gives way to rock and gravel trails, the hills dotted with greens and reds.  Even the beastkin they see are different; spriggans hugging their crystal chunks scatter about.

"Just past Florentel's Spire and we'll be at the Bobbing Cork soon."

Somehow I don’t think women are a forte of the Losstarots, thinks Oudine with amusement as she follows Joshua’s lead to look out. 

Her eyes widen at the splash of colours, its vibrancy a profound change from all the ice and snow of home. The temperature, she suddenly notices with a jolt, has changed; her breaths are no longer visible as wispy clouds. It may even be necessary to remove her coat when they arrive at their destination. As the Chocobos run, she spots more creatures roaming and bobbing beyond, and she leans a little further out to catch sight of them.

“What are those strange things?” 

Remont leans beside her. “Balloons - Voidkin.”

Oudine’s face takes on a sceptical expression. “They don’t look very balloon-like.”

Her brother laughs. “They float in a balloon-like way. They don’t do you any harm if you don’t provoke them, unlike that.”

Oudine turns to where her brother is pointing at a fairly large, dark, looming thing. Even from a distance, she can see a nasty looking tail and pincers. “Fury have mercy,” she says, eyes getting even rounder.

“Banemites, they’re called,” says her brother helpfully. 

She grimaces at the sight. “I can’t imagine having to fight any of those.” 

He grins. “They’re really not so bad after awhile. Their webs are used for all manner of things: mostly velveteen, but also canes and instruments.”

Oudine nods, feeling her inexperience in the ways of life so far from Ishgard’s noble houses. There is only so much reading stories and listening to others could do. Here is a vast world beyond hers, and three of them in the carriage live in such a place.

“How small Ishgard seems,” she murmurs, still staring out at the changing scenery around them.

-

Onto Part 2

(For the record, this was written in late April to mid-May; we were supposed to be on a break then @escherstrange-ffxiv texted me 'I have an idea (uh oh)' and a Gdocs link

It's just a picnic, why did it get split into 4 parts-)

Ali & Carly

Ali: How do you like your  🥚🍳 in the morning? Carly: no 🐣 Carly: ha Ali: 🐔 didn't show up in your roost later, did he? Carly: he must be scared of you Carly: 🔮 Ali: or my 🐺 Carly: maybe Ali: eggs aside, how you feeling, chick? Carly: 😷🤒🤕🤢🤮 Ali: 👎👎👎👎👎 Ali: unacceptable! Ali: what do you need, kill or cure? Carly: cure forever Carly: im too young to die Ali: I'll swing by with my witches brew Ali: actually doesn't taste like ☠ either Ali: pure 😇 Carly: aw Carly: really? Ali: 'course, not gonna half-arse the job Ali: and it makes a full pot, no sense in not sharing the 💚 Carly: 💙 Carly: wat does it taste like? Ali: like Christmas 🎄🎅🤶🎁❄️🌨️☃️✨🌟 Carly: 😋😊🥰 Ali: it's got ginger and peppermint in Ali: the only other person hanging out their arse is my brother and he would rather die 'cos he's grumpy 👴 man energy so Carly: no 🦃 tho yea?! ha Carly: oh no he sounds like my da Carly: which cute bro is it? Ali: definitely not 😂 Ali: some greens but not sprouts Ali: the freckly one Carly: did u heal my heart to 💔😢? Carly: course itd be the most beautiful one Ali: oh no, you're delirious Ali: I'll come quick 😜 Carly: dont b jealous 👼 hes only the most beautiful boy Ali: 😏 My ma'll be gutted Carly: do u have a tea for that? Ali: 🍋 'cos she's so bitter? Ali: I'll see if she goes for it Carly: noooo 🍯 so she wont be Ali: you're too sweet yourself, Walsh Carly: aw Carly: but ur the 1 who saved me Carly: ur the sweetest Ali: anyone would Carly: nah ur the 1st Carly: not just saying it to u get ur fairy wings Ali: had to fly away from that particular 🐔 plenty myself Ali: harmless and flightless though he is, most the time Carly: yea Carly: he talks about u wen hes been on it Carly: the 1 that flew away Ali: uh oh Ali: can't let a boy ✂ your wings Ali: ever Ali: ever Ali: 👼🏽 🐔 🐧 🐦 🐤 🐣 🐥 🦆 🦢 🦅 🦉 🦚 🦜 🦇 🐝 🦋 🐞 🦗 🦟 🐓 🦃 🕊 Carly: im 😕💫🙃 but idk if those were the guests i danced with Carly: did get a cute lil 🎶🎤 to fall asleep to tho 💙🕊 Carly: 🌚🌝🌛🌜🌞 Ali: very 👸 of you though Ali: I can 👀 it Carly: my ma is trying to make me clean Carly: 🐇🐁🐀🐿🦔🐾 pls Ali: also unacceptable Ali: not 'til you're better Ali: use my wings to fly through and 🤞 he don't get the wrong idea about who I'm there to see Carly: [sends her a pic of whatever caravan mess she caused last night that her mum is raging about] Carly: so u can play a game of spot whats got her 😠 Carly: cuz idk Ali: Fun 🧐🤔🤨 Ali: angry mothers are my forte Ali: [does the circling the hazzards moment on the pic] Carly: making her angry is mine but nah to knowing y ever ever Carly: k ur cute & smart Carly: 🌟 Ali: it's rarely logical, but 🤫 on that or it's hulk levels in 0-60 Ali: how are you this nice when you're 😷🤒🤕🤢🤮 Ali: that's a skill, rare one at that 💎✨ Carly: my da is looking green must of had his own 🎶🍻💃 ha Carly: idk i can b nicer? but k now i know ronan aint been talking bout me when hes 🍺 or 💊 Ali: can be a tea party for three Ali: have to bring his own 🎩 though Ali: not to me anyway Ali: but as you can tell Ali: 🐺 keeps all the 🐓🐓🐓 away Carly: 🐇🐇🐇♠️♣️♥️♦️🐇🐇🐇 Carly: she is fierce Ali: she likes to think so Ali: 🐶 really Carly: course ur not scared of her silly Carly: u love her Carly: im a 🐈 person ha Ali: [sends her a load of pictures of Bluebeard she didn't ask for rather than being like do I love her hmm] Carly: AW!!!! Carly: 🥰🤗 Ali: he's captain ☠🏴 but there's always room aboard Carly: thats the best offer ive had from a gentleman ever ever ever Carly: whats his name? Ali: Bluebeard Ali: and he is MOSTLY a gentleman if you can handle some toe nibbling Carly: 😍😍😍😍 Carly: into it Carly: ive done more for lads i just met who aint as beautiful so Ali: 😂 I feel that Ali: honestly, it's quite comforting, when he doesn't sneak attack you with it Carly: [sends her a selfie that shouldn't be as adorable as it is] Carly: now u can introduce us Carly: 👋 baby blue Ali: the 😍😍😍😍 are mutual Ali: I can tell Carly: yay Carly: 🧡 Ali: is there anything else you need/we want for the tea party? Ali: en-route at last Carly: ur really coming? Ali: yeah, sorry I was ages, it's a whole process brewing it Ali: also a dead giveaway you're 😷🤒🤕🤢🤮 which obvs my ma takes as her cue to be all Spanish inquisition about it Ali: 📚 of my mostly-fictional-but-which-are-and-which-aren't-mother exploits later Carly: sorry iou so much magic Ali: nah, don't worry about it 👸 Ali: who doesn't love a little scandal with their morning brew? she deffo does Carly: its too late im looking for 🍀 Carly: among the 🌼🌼🌼 Ali: awh Ali: I'm never turning down extra luck Ali: we can make daisy-chains Carly: its the dresscode Carly: soz da Ali: does he have a 🧔? Ali: that's a #look Carly: not rn Carly: my ma wasnt on @ me only to clean up Carly: he had his turn Ali: damn it Ali: maybe a nice belt Ali: I'll be 🤔 Carly: dont b 💔😢 he has bushy eyebrows Ali: same Ali: he's earnt his invite back Ali: your ma gonna have to chill though Ali: and it ain't that kinda tea 💔 Carly: you wont b able to tell if shes angry or surprised Ali: 😚 ⬅ I know the vibe Ali: you do you babe Carly: she used to let me sort em out but there was an accident Carly: which im sworn to secrecy about Ali: I'm so good with secrets 🙏🙏🙏 Carly: k Carly: my head zoned out but my hands kept going like Ali: you were meditating you can't help having  🌌🧠 Ali: I'll 🤭 now and never tell, don't worry Mrs W Carly: @ school yea im meditating on your q sir relax Carly: ha love that Ali: they just ask questions to answer it themselves, what is the point Carly: u coming for my ma again? Ali: 🤫 bad first impression, that Carly: shes heard it from ronan too sorry Carly: lad has loose lips Ali: honestly Ali: 🙄 can't keep up with my bad reputation Carly: ud think hed be better at kissing Carly: its talk talk talk Carly: more good things about u than ive made it seem like tho Ali: he was a big talker Ali: probably 'cos he ain't allowed with the lads Carly: if he talked about what a 👼 u are & how 💔😢 he is theyd uninvite him from the bonfire Carly: its sweet really how hung up hes got Ali: he only thinks I'm an 👼 'cos he took my virginity probs Ali: that's more suitable 🔥side chat Carly: he goes on about that alot but I thought he was lying Carly: oh no that sounds bad Carly: not calling u a slag ur obvs not its y he likes u more Ali: 😂 I'm fine with slag Ali: all definition dependent anyway Carly: yea same Carly: can be hot if ur in the mood Ali: right, and if I'm a slag 'cos I didn't marry him then I'll take it Carly: & hes not allowed to marry gorgers theyd wanna throw him in the 🔥 Ali: exactly Ali: we can't both be 💔😢 forever can we boy Carly: just me @ the party til u came to my rescue Ali: 🥺 Ali: What was he even on about then, like? Ali: dickhead Carly: idk i zone out wen he shouts @ me too Ali: I can always poison a cup and send it his way Ali: just say the word Carly: hes not that bad Ali: okay okay, just some laxatives Ali: 'cos he's a bit 💩 Carly: ha Ali: no 🌼🌼🌼 unless he says soz then Carly: but his beautiful curls 🥺 Ali: hmm, a good point Ali: be strong, baby Carly: ill throw one @ him & run away Carly: back to u Ali: you're so adorable Carly: says u Carly: 👼👸🏼 Ali: 💚 we're gonna have an adventure when the tea hits okay Ali: I've decided Carly: k thats the kinda 🎄🎅🤶🎁 it is Carly: i do want the energy of a kid on xmas morning Ali: that's the best Ali: how I'm tryna be every day Carly: 💫⭐️🌟✨⚡️☄️ 🚀🛸 Ali: if only 🚀 Ali: this bike can only go as fast as my lil legs can carry, like Carly: aw baby Carly: i shouldve asked u where u live before this 2nd rescue was launched Carly: im sorry Ali: No distance is too far for a fair maiden Carly: ill have to see what other 🔮 i can find before u get here Carly: dont love ious Ali: there's no ious Carly: [sending her loads of pics of her with or just pics of the cat lady's cats that she's rounding up for this tea party and they're adorable] Ali: 😍💞😻 Ali: okay, non-debt fully paid though Carly: [just rambling about the names she's given each cat cos her and cat lady don't know each other properly til Ali comes along and like facts about each cat/her fave things cos she's a big nerd] Ali: I love them Ali: I'm gonna get them some 🐟🐟🐟 when I get tea party tings Ali: some cream, awh, okay, this is happening Carly: im picking enough 🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼 for everyone Ali: should've put Bluebs in my basket Ali: next time Carly: aw Carly: Humbug might try & fight him Carly: youd b there to protect him tho Ali: I can ref Ali: my little brother is always trying to play-fight everyone so I'm well-versed Carly: is he ticklish? that works for me Carly: broken up lots of fights Ali: big time Ali: his kryptonite Ali: reckon it's against the rules in professional fights but preparing him for anything like any good big sister Carly: ha Carly: aw i bet ur an amazing sister Carly: if i had 1 maybe id wanna be on site sometimes Carly: my ma's eyebrows r hardly a call to home Ali: he might disagree but he's 5 so what does he know 😉 Ali: feel that though Ali: home is just a base, whole 🌍 out there Carly: wen ur 5 you argue to argue Carly: yea if u dont use ur wings theyll think u dont want em 💔😢 Ali: flying is like riding a 🚲 though Carly: r we goin on a 🚲 adventure? Ali: definitely Ali: ugh, need one of those wagons for the 😻😻😻s Carly: ☺️its gonna b so fun! Carly: we might meet more 🐈🐈🐈🐈 Ali: way better than 🐔 Carly: ha Carly: do u have 🔮 left to help me find shoes? Ali: have you checked the fridge? Carly: [a pause while she do] Carly: theyre not there 😕🧐 Ali: damn, that'd be the last place I'd look though Ali: were they in the mess your Ma was sounding off about fr Carly: o mayb Carly: if i was wearing any when you dropped me off Ali: 🤔 I don't know if I recall any glass slippers Ali: I'll ask Lene hold up Carly: 👸 energy Carly: but idk if i wanna scary 🐺 at my door Ali: turns out she's actually your 👵 Carly: ha my grandma is 💍 to god Carly: its not close to the energy shes putting out Ali: she'd probably tell your actual that God is a gay girl Ali: nah she's well 😇 around fam, just hide behind your Ma and me, baby, you'll be fine Carly: ha that wasn't in any of the kids bible stories she sent me every 🎄🎅🤶🎁 Carly: her god is 😠 than Humbug Carly: he likes to shout so i gotta zone out Carly: aw that's sweet ur ma loves her too? Ali: Hooray for Catholicism, yeah? 😏 Ali: she loves my Ma, more like Carly: we spend our sundays on our knees nana but its 🚽🤮 or u kno a bigger sin Carly: u do look like her i remember Ali: that's not QUITE 🚽🤮 levels but close 😂 Carly: nah its nice u have the same 👀💙✨ Carly: idk who i look like Carly: postman maybe Ali: now I don't know whether to 😳 or be 🤨 you like my Ma too Ali: you look like you and that's Ali: 💛 😍 😘 🥰 😚 👸 👼🏽 🐰 🌼 🌻 🌞 🍓 🍑 🍨 🍰 🍭 🍬 🎆 💜 Carly: yea 🤞🙏🌠 the postman isnt my da cuz hes a ride Carly: aw now youve got me 😳 Ali: rude, my postman is not Carly: 🚫💌 then baby Carly: ill text u instead Ali: so grumpy, don't stick your hand right into our house if you don't wanna get bitten, sir Ali: not by me, whatever Ronan has said Ali: though I'm well flattered I'm getting a text back Carly: ha its k its not that u use too much teeth Carly: & course ur my hero Carly: tho 🤞🙏🌠 wont b an sos every time Ali: good, can't have him putting you off with blatant lies Ali: it won't be if I do a better job at the heroics and get there before any bad shit can happen Carly: its k i like it Carly: helps me remember what i did Carly: 💔😢 no lads r spelling their names out in bruises for the who Carly: 🐇🐾🐇🐾🐇 Carly: nooo theres no better u could do Carly: ur flying to me faster than anyone has ever ever Ali: amateurs, like Ali: so rude, ain't they heard you're 👸 Ali: I'm basically there now, prepare for the best tea party you've ever been to Carly: aint wat theyve heard but idc Carly: yay 💙 i havent had 1 since me & my 🧸🧸🧸 Ali: I'll be 🎶🔊 it so get in the know lads Ali: awh, can I meet them too? Carly: not too 🔊 or ur gf will bite me which could b fun but im not trying to do u like 💔😢 Carly: some r shyer than others but if u work ur 🔮 how u did for me ull make friends Ali: fill your boots, babe, I don't reckon she's your type, like Ali: I'll be on my best behaviour 🤞 Ali: the loveliest guest you've ever had 🤞🤞 Carly: be fun though Carly: not boring Ali: 😲😲 Ali: Is that the impression I give off? Ali: or another Ronan tale, either way Ali: gonna have to prove otherwise now in the most extra ways imaginable Carly: nahhh Carly: he don't lie to me its his 1 saving grace Carly: its just like a pls Carly: to u & the universe Ali: I won't be boring Ali: trust me Carly: k Carly: i do ur a lifesaver Ali: nah Ali: just happy to help Carly: im happy we r mates Ali: me too Ali: idk why we weren't before, like Ali: too many people at school Carly: & i dont go much ha Ali: this is true Ali: lesser spotted walsh 🐦 Carly: oooh wat colours am i Ali: 💗💜💛🧡💗 Carly: cute Ali: very Carly: wats ur fave colour? Ali: It's a harder question than people reckon, that Ali: like, there's so many beautiful things of every colour Ali: if I can decide for the day, I feel like I'm doing a disservice to all the others Carly: sorry Carly: i havent decided on mine either Carly: when i was a lil kid it was 💛 for the 🌞 then wen i started goin out it was silver for wat i thought the 🌚 looked like Carly: but ive seen so many new colours since Ali: kids always know Ali: they're much smarter than adults about everything Carly: i bet ur lil bro is the smartest Carly: like u Ali: he likes red for 🚨❌🛑⛔️🚫💯‼️🥊🥤 Ali: and I see the appeal Carly: does he like 🍎? i kno somewhere that sells the reddest shiniest 1s Carly: or we cud just throw 🍅s Ali: he's at the anti-fruit stage Ali: but I reckon he could be convinced if we let him smother 'em in caramel and sprinkles Carly: its a date Ali: Me first

Better Man // Part 2

Hey guys! Hope you liked the first part of Better Man, my newest fanfict for Ashton! I'm really enjoying writing this, and felt inspired recently as I have just returned from a holiday! Enjoy this second part.

Warnings: light smut, swearing, slight mention of controlling relationships.

****

"He called you cute?!" Camila squeeled with delight, as I recalled the events from earlier in the day.

I sighed, but smiled a little. For once Camila actually sounded invested in one of my guy stories.

"And then... His mate just walked off with him?!" she asked confused.

"Well, Luke his friend, and band mate, basically dragged him back to have a nap, he'd had so much to drink Cami" I scoffed.

"He's in a band?!" Ed gasped.

"Go Y/N! You've pulled! " Camila cheered, clapping.

"Comeon guys, I was just providing support. He was quite drunk so I bet he doesn't remember any of it". I chuckle, picking up my drink and heading back to the bar after finishing my break. I wasn't try to make a big deal out of the chat with the boy as it wasn't a big deal, but he was kinda cute. And it was nice that he felt comfortable talking to me.

****

"Lucky number 7, numero siete" I hear the entertainer Sami shout from the stage. Bingo was a very popular game in the hotel, especially as the old folk found it fun. I'd noted that the hotel was busier tonight, filled with all ages, which meant good business. I'd already had to stop 2 guys on a stag do from having more alcohol. I continued to make my favourite cocktail for a lady at the bar, Love On The Beach, which had vodka, strawberry flavouring with peach schnaps and a dash of lemonade. I presented the lady with the drink, to which she lightly clapped.

"Excuse me miss?" I hear a voice say at the bar. I turn around and see the curly haired boy, looking rather sleepy. His hair was messier than usual, and he was dressed in the same clothes are he had on 5 hours earlier. He rubbed his hand in the back of his head in an awkward fashion.

"Well hello rockstar, back for another drink?" I jokingly ask.

He smirks, sitting down at the bar, placing his head in the palm of his hands. I decide to make him a special drink. It was my first drink I learnt from Camila, a hangover cure! Orange juice, lemonade and a few other secret ingredients. I make the drink up, and place it in front of him.

"Please tell me there's no gin in this" he groans, lifting his head up from the bar table to inspect the drink.

I chuckle. "None what so ever sir".

He goes to give me a €10 note to pay for the drink. I wave my hand across my chest.

"No charge, its on me" I smile, pushing the drink closer towards him. He replies with a wide smile, I note his big ___ eyes, looking at me.

"Thanks Y/N" he replies, taking a sip. He subtlety moans.

"That's lovely".

"Enjoy... D'you know, I never got your name." I chuckle.

"Really? How rude of me." the boy laughs, offering me his hand.

"My names Ashton" he says, shaking my hand.

"So I wanted to apologise for earlier, I wasn't myself, and normally I'm not that much of a drinker like that" he said.

"It's okay, I've heard a lot worse stories over the past few months. I witnessed a divorce at this very bar, so you're good" I reply.

"Wow" is all his reply is. He takes another sip of the drink, followed by 2 headache tablets.

"Did you have some dinner?" I ask.

"Not yet, I'm waiting for Luke and Sierra and then we'll head out for the night" he replies.

"So is Luke a friend in your band?".

"Yup, he's the guitarist and vocalist, I'm the drummer" he says proudly.

"That's so cool!" I smile. As I attempt to find out more about Ashton, I hear a clicking of a finger and find a big old gentlemen trying to beckon me over to his side of the bar. I sigh.

"Excuse me Ashton" I say, walking to the gentlemen.

"Finally! I've been waiting for service for ages!" the old man moans.

"I do apologise sir, how may I help?" I reply awkwardly.

****

Its 1am, and the stag do have finally left the bar to head into the town centre for a night out. I sigh in relief, tidying up so I can close up and head home for the night. It was my day off tomorrow so I was looking forward to a lie in. I decided to start clearing the tables first, filling my tray with cocktail glasses. I hear a smash of glass, I turn around and see Margot by shattered glass.

I groan, heading over to her with a brush and pan. I smile at her, and let her get on with cleaning up the mess. She just shrugs at me, and proceeds to clean up. Throughout my shift, all I've thought about is Ashton, and how lovely he was. For the rest of the night before Luke and Sierra returned, we talked about lots in between me serving customers. We spoke about living in England, something both of us had done.

"Don't you miss home?" I questioned.

"Yeah, but the boys and I knew that we had to leave Aus a bit to try and get known musically. It was brilliant, living on our own, no rules, no nagging mums-" he says.

"No cleaning" I interrupted, laughing. He gives me a playful nudge at my comment.

"So did you live alone in England before moving here?" he asks.

"I actually lived with my Dad until he remarried, which became difficult to I decided to stay here for good!" I reply with a smile.

Ashton pouts. "But do you not miss home?" he asks.

"Not really. I have bad memories of home, with family and other people, so it was nice to start all over here again" I reply.

"I get it, like I miss home but so much has happened since I moved out and focused on the band" Ashton smiles.

****

I continued to clean the bar, and manage to finish around 2am. I sigh looking at my Apple Watch, noting the time. I head to reception to sign out, and am greeted by Ashton, sat on the chairs, like he was waiting for someone.

"Hey Rockstar" I smile tiredly, trying to hide my yawn.

"Hey Y/N, going home?" he asks.

"Yup, off tomorrow which will be nice".

Ashton looks somewhat disappointed. "Oh? So I won't see you tomorrow?" he replies, looking at the floor.

"Not at work nope, but if you're in the town or about maybe I'll say hey" I wink, confused at why he appeared so disappointed.

"That would be nice, Luke and Sierra were thinking of heading to the beach tomorrow, so maybe see you around" Ashton says.

"Well personally, I'd go to the one further down towards the airport. Its much nicer and better quality sand, if you get me. I head there with Cami and Ed often, it's nice" I smile.

"I take it Ed and Cami are mates?" he asks.

"Yup, Cami is a cleaner here at the hotel and Ed works on reception." I reply.

"That's cool, well maybe I'll say hey to them if I see them around, point out next time? He asks.

"Will do, enjoy your night Ashton" I smile, signing my name and walk towards the exit.

"Goodnight Y/N" he smiles at me, before walking away.

****

I couldn't sleep last night, which was weird for me. Normally, I'm out like a light, but last night was different. I had Ashton on my mind and I couldn't work out why. The way he smiled at me, made me laugh all night at the bar. The sparkle in his Hazel eyes got made me feel gooey.

I decided to get up, and head to the local Spar to get some food bits for the day. I parked my car in the car park, and headed into the store. I grabbed a roll, some Lays crisps and a bottle of Pepsi. I turned into the sweet section and overheard a woman with an American accent laughing.

"Luke! There here, come get the candy" she laughed, before walking into the same section as me. I stopped, and recognised the voice as Sierra, Luke's girlfriend.

"Oh hello" I warmly smile, continuing my shopping and placing some strawberry laces in my basket.

"Hey Y/N, Ash said you had a day off today!" Sierra says, grabbing the same bag of sweets.

"Do I hear my name?" I hear Ashton say, as he turns the corner into where we're stood. As soon as he sees me, his face lights up like a little boy in Christmas day. I playfully wave at him. He comes over.

"Hey Y/N, did you decide on a beach day too?" Ashton says.

"As a matter of fact I did! I take it you listened to my suggestion of this beach?" I say, pointing to the beach over the road from the shop.

"Ahhh so you recommend it... That explains a lot." Sierra winked at Ashton.

"Well it would be rude of us to not invite you along to sit with us for the day, if you wanted?" Sierra asks.

"That would be lovely, thank you. It's always nice to have some company on my days off" I reply, excited at the fact that I get to spend time with them, as they seemed like a good bunch of mates.

Ashton smiled over at me, beckoning me over to the sweet counter.

"Now Y/N, what other sweets should we get?" he asks.

****

"You're definitely cheating!" Ashton insists, pouting like a four year and throwing the cards onto the blanket.

I laugh, picking up the cards and start to reshuffle the deck. It's the 5th round of Rummy and Ashton had lost every single round.

"What can I say, I'm just too good for you" I wink playfully. Ashton rolls his eyes, poking my chest playfully. I watch Sierra and Luke, who are play wrestling on the beach. Its been good hanging out with the three of them for the day. They've spoken a lot about the band, Luke and Sierra's relationship and planning future holidays.

"They're cute together" I admire the couple dancing on the beach. I look over at Ashton, who is also looking at them.

"Yeah, they've been through a lot those guys, I love them lots" he smiles. "They've both been great friends to me, especially recently".

"Can I ask you, what actually happened with your ex?" I asked curiously, not wanted to upset him.

"Myself and Kay had been dating for 6 months, things were going well, but I found myself not being able to give her my full attention, with everything that was going well with 5SOS. She started to make me feel guilty for being away from her. I tried to make effort more, but in the end she wanted more than I could offer. I tried to end up several times, but each time she'd come up with a different excuse or reason not to. In the end I stupidly invited her on this holiday with Luke and Sierra to try and calm things down. Biggest mistake. She took it as a sign that we would be getting back together, but I kept saying to her that I just want to be friends. We sat down the other day and she ended up storming off. So... That's it" Ashton said, his head facing down the whole time.

I pause, taking it all it. "I'm so sorry, it must have been difficult." I reply, placing a reasurring hand on his back.

"It's okay. I just feel bad that she wanted more from me that I can offer. She knew my schedule. I just wish I could find someone that understands that" he sighs.

"I get you, like a no strings things?" I ask.

"Basically yeah, it's how things with her started, but then it clearly got more complicated. Feelings get mixed up. Sex turns into moving in. It went quickly." he says.

"I get that. My ex jumped ahead, its scary, especially if you aren't ready for it" I reply, sighing.

"You went through the same thing?" Ashton asks, looking at me.

I pause, preparing myself to tell the story.

"Yup, and it ended messy. We dated for 5 months. Started off as a hook up after meeting on Tinder, and somehow he turned it into a relationship. I basically felt forced into it, he kept saying 'it's the right thing' when in reality I didn't want it. He insisted on making it a serious relationship, meeting family and making it official on social media. When I tried to end it, all I'd get is abuse, calling me crazy and stupid. In the end I managed to leave him, but he ended up stalking me for weeks after. In the end I got a retraining order, and I've had no trouble since" I said.

Ashton sat and listened to my entire story in silence, nodding a little and sighing with me.

"Wow, you've been through a lot" he said.

"Yup, but then I look at how happy I am now, at my new job, making new friends and meeting new faces each and every day, it gives me so much happiness" I reply smiling. Ashton smiles at this comment, knowing that I'm hinting at him.

"That makes me happy to hear. I'm glad we met y'know Y/N, you're a lovely girl" Ashton says.

"Thanks Ash, I guess you're alright" I reply giving him a wink. He jokingly pushes me to the ground, and jokingly pins me down to the sand, holding both of my hands. We're both laughing, before it all goes quiet. I look deeply into his eyes, memerizing each part of his face. His cute dimples on his cheek, the crease in his lips. Realising what he was doing, all of a sudden he gets up and walks in a circle.

I pause, confused.

"Is everything okay?" I ask.

"Yeah, sorry, I shouldnt have done that" he replies worryingly.

"It's okay, we were only messing around. It was funny" I replied, shocked at how serious he was taking this.

"If you're sure, just don't wanna hurt you" he replies.

I laugh. "I'm a big girl Ash, I'll be okay" I laugh. He chuckles, rolling his eyes, before sitting back down on the picnic blanket again.

****

We get back to the Hotel, and I'm greeted by a beaming Camila, who introduces herself to Ashton, Sierra and Luke.

"Please excuse Miss Y/L/N, she's needed in a room urgently." she requests, dragging me arm away to room 263. She pulls me into the room, and I see Ed is already sat there patiently waiting, on the bed, legs and arms crossed.

"What in earth?" I whisper, realising that we're in a guests room.

"Oh don't worry they checked out an hour ago, no one new expected until later on" Cami reasurres me.

"So, spill some tea sis!!!" Ed chimes.

"Why didn't you tell us you were meeting up with the curly haired boy?!" Cami says.

"OK so his name is Ashton, and he's really sweet. We hung out with his friends at the beach, nothing special" I shrug.

"It looked pretty special to me, looked like a double date" Camila smirked. Ed clapped his hands at this.

"Ashton isn't really looking for... Anything... Or anyone for that matter... At the moment, so it definitely wasn't a date, just hanging out." I shrug, trying to contain my excitement that he was pretty cute.

"But still, he is cute girl, you gotta admit that" Camila said, smiling.

"Yeah, he is, I like him". I said, smiling and dancing around the room a little. Ed and Camila join in dancing with me, before we're interrupted by a knock. Camila forgot to shut the door behind her.

"You lot seem... Happy?" Ashton questions, seeing us all dancing. I can feel myself turning bright red, hoping that he didn't hear what I just said.

"Erm.. Yeah, just happy that it's the weekend!" Ed smiles, trying to cover our backs.

"Speaking of which, cool if I grab Y/N?" Ashton asks.

"You go ahead sweetie, we'll be just here". Camila grins from ear to ear, ushering Ed out of the room, and hide behind the corner so they can hear every word. I roll my eyes at this action.

Ashton chuckeled. "Your friends are funny".

"Yeah they're petty decent. Did you have a good day? I hope you liked the beach and that you liked the food also, because I really was worried tha-" I said.

"It was perfect, Y/N, thank you. Luke commented on how much of a great tour guide you were for us today. So thankyou. Plus you have a good eye for nice food!" Ashton smiles, lightly brushing his finger along my cheek. I can feel myself shudder at this light touch, making me legs feel like jelly.

"Speaking of food, to say thank you, I'd like to take you out for dinner tonight, just me and you. Is that okay?" Ashton asked.

I pause, shocked at his request.

"I-I would love to" is all I manage to reply.

"Great, it's a date" he winks, before walking off.

****

Part 1 // Part 2 // Part 3 //

True to his word, Henry had the coach driver stop in a town on the way to his cousin's house. At first glance, it was super cute and historic. Everything looked to be from around the Civil War era. Much like Henry's suit and the stagecoach and the "roads" and...

Henry bought a newspaper and asked where one could go to find a pre-made dress for a little girl. He was directed to a corner shop. When we got there, I looked out and noticed the dresses and everything else were also from the 19th century. Henry's newspaper said 1850.

My heart began racing, and my head began pounding. Thoughts started flashing through my mind: How did I end up in 1850? That shouldn't be remotely possible! How do I get home? Can I get home? Do they have plumbing? Does my family know I'm gone? I hate those ruffly hoops skirts. How do I live in an era where women can't even vote? Does my family think I'm dead? Will I ever get home?

I started hyperventilating. Henry patiently waited for me to calm down, and I knew he had no idea how to help. Still, he tried. He put a cautious hand on my back and rubbed it slowly, gently.

Think! Think! One thing at a time! I need to wear clothes. This man is helping me. One thing at a time.

I slowly regained my composure and let Henry know I was ready to go.

Inside, the shop was very girly. The man behind the counter greeted Henry, who in turn said he needed to buy me a few dresses.

A few? Wow.

The man finally looked at me in my tent, his eyes widening. He quickly glanced back at Henry as if to size him up, but the latter was calm as ever.

Soon, I was trying on dresses.

Then our destination rose up amid the fields .s book, and Henry gave him some money.

"I really appreciate this, Henry," I said when we were back in the coach.

"Mr. Baldwin."

"What?"

He sighed.

"It is inappropriate for a young girl to call a man by his first name. Honestly, child, did no one teach you manners?"

Shit. I really messed that one up. That's right. 19th century. I have to be proper. I've read a lot of period novels and watched a lot of period tv. Thank you, Bridgerton. I can do that.

"Apologies, Mr. Baldwin," I correct. "I can do better. Your generosity is deeply appreciated."

I even bowed my head a little and offered a sheepish smile. He looked stunned at my reversal.

"That is much improved," he said. "Now then, Miss Swan, we will be going to my cousin's house. He is Mr. Tobias Nickelby. He has many... people in his... employ... I trust you will be well-behaved?"

"Of course, Mr. Baldwin."

He nodded and fell silent, reading his newspaper. I recalled some genealogical research I had done and the newspapers I had searched for obituaries. They published a lot of local social news, like who was passing through, who was visiting whom, whether my grandparents' homing pigeons made it back to Cleveland. I smiled and quietly chuckled to myself at the memory. I wondered what was in this newspaper.

We had to stay in an inn that night. We weren't far from Mr. Baldwin's cousin's house, but it was too far to venture further in the night. He rented me my own room for my privacy. I was grateful. It did not take me long to fall asleep, what with the eventful day and all.

We were back on the road in the early morning, eating breakfast at dawn and heading out of town. By noon, we were almost there.

"Now remember, Miss Swan, you are to call my cousin Mr. Nickelby."

"Yes, of course, sir."

He smiled.

We took a turn east. Thick trees on the right, vast fields on the left. There were men and women out working in the fields, wielding tools and carrying baskets.

Then our destination rose up amid the fields and we turned down the long driveway.

To call Mr. Nickelby's home a house was an understatement. It was a lovely mansion. Lovely until I got a closer look around me. All the workers wore tattered clothes, and none was white. Except for the odd fellow here or there just standing around barking at the others.

I wanted to cry. This was the past. I knew that. This was 1850. Of course slavery was still a thing. But to see it...

"I don't want to be here!"

Mr. Baldwin quickly turned his head at my outburst.

"I can't!"

"What ever is the matter with you?"

Mr. Baldwin sounded more surprised than upset.

"Th-this," I stammered, tears beginning to fall. "This is-isn't ri-ight!"

He looked out as we neared the plantation house's front.

"You are not wrong, child," he nearly whispered. "But we must be respectful of our host."

I wasn't sure if I could do that. I shook my head.

"How is your imagination? Can you pretend they are not there?"

I must have given him quite the stare because he looked back at me with shock.

"Remember your manners."

His tone was almost scolding, but before I could say anything, he was hopping out of the coach.

Mr. Nickelby -- whose formal name I use out of respect for Mr. Baldwin, not the vile filth that owned humans -- greeted his cousin with a roaring "Welcome!" Mr. Baldwin gestured to the coach, and said something about me. The former waved a greeting in my direction and escorted Mr. Baldwin inside.

I had to leave the coach.

I stepped foot onto a working plantation, and I shuddered. I knew from school and documentaries and movies how frighteningly awful they could be. I looked around for something that didn't seem tainted by malevolence, and I saw a small tombstone under a tree.

"That there was Mrs. Nickelby's favorite tree," said a voice behind me.

I turned to find a beautiful woman in a yellow dress and an apron standing about four feet away. I could just make out a scar on her left brow under her hair and a tattoo on her right wrist. She caught me staring at it.

"Come, Miss. There is a room for you."

She led me upstairs to a very frilly room.

"Thank you," I said, my voice catching in my throat.

I caught sight of her tattoo again. I knew it was a brand. I wanted to cry again.

"I am so, so sorry," I say, trying not sob.

"I'm surprised you care, Miss. If I may say so."

"Of course you may. And I promise you: this will all end one day."

She gave me one of those looks adults give children when they've said something so innocent that their naivity is both adorable and sad. I knew this look; I'd given it to my nephews. It broke my heart that she didn't have that hope.

I did not go down to dinner that night. For the next three days, Mr. Nickelby entertained Mr. Baldwin, and I ate what little I could in my room. I never met his daughter, and she never tried to introduce herself to me. Though I understood we were about the "same" age.

Finally, Mr. Baldwin knocked on the door.

"Come in."

He entered, took one look at my I-just-finished-ugly-crying face, and frowned.

"What has you so upset, child?"

I couldn't talk about how I was stuck 171 years before my "present" and so far removed from those I cared for, but I felt I could possibly mention the horrors I knew about and even had seen from my window. I took a deep breath.

"I hate this place," I admitted. "Enslaving humans beings, it's just so wrong!"

He pulled the chair from the corner to the side of the bed.

"Just yesterday, I saw an overseer whip a man so violently that--"

I had to pause. I didn't think I had more in me.

"It was awful. The crack of the whip. The blood. I could tell what it was even at night."

I buried my face in my hands and tried some deep breathing exercises.

"I am sorry, Miss Swan. No child should have to see that."

I looked up at Mr. Baldwin.

"No human should have to endure that," I answered.

My tone was harsher than I would have liked it to be, but Mr. Baldwin didn't show any shock or disppointment.

"Well, we will be leaving in the morning," he said, rising from the chair. "Hopefully you will feel better once we are on our way."

Through the lens of the 21st century, it nearly enraged me that he wasn't more upset by things. Everywhere I looked, everything I saw reminded me that I was in 1850, yet I could not wrap my head around what I knew to be an ass-backward, hateful, ignorant way of life.

It was somewhat of a relief that Mr. Baldwin at least also disagreed with what those in the south were doing.

It took two weeks to get to Philadelphia. I was relieved to be in the North. I was just about to ask Mr. Baldwin if I would be staying with him.

"I have written ahead to a cousin of mine here in Philadelphia," he told me over breakfast. "She is a teacher at a school for girls, and I have secured you a room there."

I was stunned.

"Do not leave your mouth hanging open, young lady."

"I'm sorry, Mr. Baldwin. I'm just surprised."

"Why? You can read. You are an intelligent girl. Why shouldn't you go to school?"

Well, I can't disagree. I've always loved school, but it's a little elementary for me, my dear Baldwin. I do have advanced degrees.

"You are always so generous, Mr. Baldwin. I wish I deserved it."

"I will leave you with an allowance, and I will send more regularly."

I was speechless. This sort of kindness always made me feel uncomfortable, and I couldn't understand why anyone would want to dote on me.

"Why are you so kind to me, Mr. Baldwin?" I asked quietly.

He smiled and placed his napkin on the table.

"Come, I want to make a stop first."

The stop, it turned out, was for me. Mr. Baldwin took me to a bookstore on our way to the school and told me to pick out anything I wanted. Of course, the books I really wanted to read weren't out yet. But I found a few.

"This may be the most generous thing you've done for me yet," I smiled.

"I'm glad you're happy," he he said with a chuckle. "We are near the school, so you can always come back here."

"Oh, I will."

I wondered about the possibility of somehow getting home and bringing some mint condition first editions with me.

He wasn't wrong; the school was very close. His cousin, much nicer to look at and not a slaver, welcomed us in. She was warm and comforting, not unlike Mr. Baldwin. He left as night fell.

She showed me to my room, which I would share with another girl, Anne. Anne was quiet and very hard to get to know; she mostly ignored me. When I wasn't in class, I was often upstairs reading, sometimes under my blanket, but only when the sun was bright through the windows.

I received regular letters from Mr. Baldwin and his wife, which I did not expect. She seemed like a lovely woman to know. I hoped I would get a chance to meet her.

The Baldwins went to Boston for the holidays. Mrs. Baldwin's father was there, and he was ill. I was glad she had a chance to visit with him. I was homesick, too. I wondered how my mother was and if the nursing home was treating her kindly.

I frequently visited the bookstore, found a few others, and scanned newspapers for any bizarre stories that could be like mine. But to no avail. I had no other way to figure out how to get home.

Late in the spring, I received a letter from Mrs. Baldwin inviting me to stay at their home for the summer months.