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demonbarbers · 3 months

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so high rn so sorry if this doesn’t make any sense i’m just so emotional about josh and annaleigh and this production so i’m gonna ramble a bit about what i love about it and them. ok. enjoy.

the thing about sweeney todd is that it’s mean. it’s a mean show. it ends on the cruel irony of 2 officers bursting in on toby slitting sweeney’s throat, surrounded by 2 other bodies and one in the oven; on johanna watching her father die holding her mother and not even knowing it. everyone is an abuser or abused, and there is no hope or redemption to be found. and it fucking rules! it just rules. it’s so fun to indulge in our basest pleasures for nearly 3 hours, delicately served to us by one of the greatest composers who’s ever lived.

and every major production takes the bile and cruelty inherent to the material and runs away with it. like- just look at this swedish production from 2006, directed by vernon mound. or the last time it was on broadway, directed by john doyle:

productions tend go smaller and nastier, more intimate, in keeping with the spirit of how sondheim originally conceived the piece. (side note: i LOVE when they do that. my ideal sweeney has buckets of blood and visera right in your face)

the original production of sweeney was MASSIVE, but that came from hal prince. hal couldn’t really get an emotional foothold on the material until he found within sweeney an extended metaphor for capitalism and the industrial revolution; people literally eating people and the machine of capitalism grinding everyone up. revivals also tend to seize on the brechtian class elements, like this absolutely gorgeous korean production from 2019 directed by eric schaeffer:

sondheim, meanwhile, always objected to readings of sweeney as brechtian- it was all a farce to him, just a good, nasty time at the theatre. he approached it as a horror fan who wanted to write some fucked up stuff, which is maybe now some of the best art is created. but hal made it into epic theatre.

(if u don’t know what epic theatre is or what brechtian means google will explain it better to u than my ridiculously stoned ass can rn but im just focusing on one aspect of it rn: the distancing effect. basically, emotionally distancing the audience from the characters and the material so that everyone is engaging with the work on an intellectual level as opposed to an emotional one)

obc sweeney is an alienating show. it’s so fun and brutal and deeply felt, but these characters are grotesque. they’re cartoonish in their cruelty. just look at their makeup! john doyle also embraces the distancing effect; his revival is actor-muso, so we’re pretty aware at all times we’re watching a show. it’s all so cold, and the only warmth to be found is in the humor. and it rules. it’s nasty. i love it. this is the show i fell in love with.

all these things have become inherent to sweeney over time, all teased out of the greatest broadway show to ever exist; visceral horror, cruelty, coldness, and class commentary.

but this revival is just.. it’s warm! it’s lush! it’s romantic! and i don’t mean that in the sense of lovett and sweeney (tho this is the warmest they’ve ever been towards each other in any major production i’ve seen). i mean that it gestures at and plays with romanticism.

my biggest critique of this production is, in doing away with the brechtian elements (sondheim just cheered), it also does away with overt class commentary. it’s all still there in the text- turpin is a corrupt judge, beadle is effectively a sheriff, sweeney and lovett are working class, the beggar woman is homeless- but as a director tommy kail seems… uninterested in any biting political commentary, to put it generously lmfao. and i hate so much how little of it there is to be found in this revival, bc you can still Do It without invoking brecht. but i’ve long made my peace with that. i wanna talk about what i love.

and what i really love and what kept me returning to it (beyond the fact that it’s sondheim, and it’s sweeney, and josh groban is so stupid fucking hot) is how human everyone is. the entire production, from the ground up, is built around taking these characters and their pain seriously.

the ensemble all have incredibly period accurate costumes, unique to each character they’ve crafted (fun fact even the swings have their own unique costume that’s only seen when they perform). gone is toby as a mentally disabled man child with an oedipal fixation on lovett. in gaten’s hands he’s a young teenager, aging out of being a cute urchin and just looking for a mother. in daniel’s hands he’s beaten down young man with a limp and a genuine love for lovett.

ruthie’s beggar woman has developed DID after a brutal rape and the trauma of institutionalization and homelessness. she’s not played for laughs, even if sometimes the audience chuckles, and she makes u feel guilty if you ever did laugh at her situation. daniel yearwood leans so far into anthony as a sweet guy completely unaware of the story he’s actually in to the point of comedy. maria is just a revelation as johanna, all nerve and tension and bloody nails from years of self-harm. it’s easy to lean into johanna as a princess track, but ~crazy~. and maria plays jo as mentally ill and traumatized from years of incesteous abuse, but it’s not a pastiche or a praody of it. jo feels human in a way i’ve never seen her depicted before. i love it. maria bilbao u have my heart forever for this.

and then josh and annaleigh…. ugh!!! annaleigh really captures the avarice at the heart of lovett, but still brings in enough genuine moments of humanity and compassion that you find yourself (like sweeney and toby) endeared to her. lovett is always cruel and can only love through manipulation, but annaleigh’s lovett is a woman who makes small concessions. bit by bit, piece by piece, she erodes whatever goodness she had inside her until nothing but her desire for sweeney is left. she’s a woman who’s used seduction to get her way, and it’s easy to envision that when lucy returned from turpin’s, she shamed her for “giving it away” without getting benjamin back. she’s a monster! and yet, when she dreams of a better life, you feel it. when she holds toby in her arms and cried at her perfect little life unraveling, you feel it. annaleigh makes you laugh so hard she gets under your skin and stays there, exactly how lovett seduces sweeney in ALP. and there it is- identification! the complete opposite of alienation. we’re in it with them.

and then there’s josh and his sweeney… i really feel like his sweeney is undervalued. annaleigh steals the show. she won the drama desk for a reason. it’s a legendary performance. but josh…. man. i just. i keep returning to josh’s open wound of a sweeney over and over again. i think he’s probably had this take bouncing around in his head for years. they smartly leaned away from sweeney as this embodiment of rage and physical menace, which surprised a lot of people. but instead leaned into sweeney’s grief in a way i haven’t seen any major production do. josh’s sweeney feels like a man who was put on this earth to be a father and a husband. there’s a buried sweetness to him and you can still see benjamin barker in him until the very end. i keep calling him “kendall roy sweeney” bc it’s the closest way i can covey to other ppl what josh is doing here. he’s all big sad eyes and suicidal ideation, tragedy and twitchy hands. he’s so deeply pathetic he just endears himself to you. i want sweeney to succeed more than ever before. even though he spends all of act 2 killing people and being a shit father and thus killing benjamin barker, i still find myself wanting him and lovett to get away with it. and when the reveal comes, and even worse the betrayal hits- that this woman who he let into his life and body and who, in some odd way, became a friend, lied to him this entire time- it hits like never before for me.

i just love it all so much. i’m so happy it exists, so happy this revival does something so new! sondheim has said sweeney todd is a show about obsession, and it is. this revival supposes: what is the difference between love and obsession? what if the two look the same?

i think often of this quote from luca guadagnino’s suspiria (a masterpiece btw): “Love and manipulation, they share houses very often. They are frequent bedfellows.”

to me, that’s this revival in a nutshell- the thin line between love and obsession, and all the blood spilled in between.

#2023 revival #sweeney todd #.txt #josh groban #annaleigh ashford #i’m sorry if this doesn’t make any sense. i’m crying rn. i love this production i miss josh and annaleigh soooo much

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villainsimpqueen · 1 month

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Echos Of Paradise Lost

Adam x Reader x Eve.

(Art found on pinterest all rights of the art goes to the original artist.)

summary:

In the turmoil of Adam and Eve's troubled relationship in Eden, you are created to bring harmony. Despite uncertainty surrounding your existence, you learn survival skills from both Adam and Eve. However, sinister voices plague you, impersonating your beloved partners.

What does the mean for you and your lovers?

This sets place in the Garden of Eden. They speak in old english.

Reader is Intersex and goes by they/them.

(All my fics are 18+. This is also available on A03. with same title.)

Trouble in paradise, The sole reason why you were created.

After the disaster of a marriage that was Adams and Liliths that ended in anger and hurt leading towards the Banishment of his Ex wife.

Adam was unconvinced of his new wife's Commitments towards him, even if Eve's love seemed ever undying, but even one who was created with the most seemingly undying patience, can grow thin.

The two humans' only purpose was not being fulfilled and the gardens that were created for humanity remained mostly empty as the Two humans that inhabited it seemed to fall into arguments, more from the former than the later.

The high elders did not want to have to wait for years for the two to consummate or have another Rouge angel accident occur to the newest wife.

So after much consideration they came to their final judgment in creating you with the leftovers dust and flesh they had from creating heavens first man and second woman.

The seraphims molded and sculpted you much in a hurry, and recklessly blew life into the husk of your body giving it life, giving birth to you. They hadn't even thought of giving you time to realize what you even were before plummeting you into the cold waters of Eden's most glorious ponds causing you to freeze and sputter as you slowly dragged your freshly made body out of the pond coughing up the glacier cold waters from your lips.

Unbeknownst to you that it was all part of their great plans as when you were focused on hacking up your freshly created lungs, your sputtering and flailing in the pond's water had distinguished the starts of a yelling match between Edens two current residents.

A golden sunkissed gentle hand found its place on one of your shoulders causing you to jerk away from the warm welcoming touch, falling backwards into the pond's shoreline square on your ass as you head jerked up to meet two sets of eyes.

One with the softest gold hue like the blissfully sweet sunrise, the Other the most intense Golden hue like the sun at its most highest and sourcing peek burning into one's skin.

"Art thou well?” The softer honey gold eyes beholder speaks, their voice sweet and soft like morning doves. Eve, you would later learn her name. Her gentle hands would help raise you from the muddy shoreline causing you to stand and fully expose your body to both of them.

"What manner of being art thou?" The scorching eye beholder questions you, Their tone being deeper, almost as if it had an itch to their voice yet it was pleasant on your own ears. You would later learn his name was Adam.

Both of them eyed you taking in your body with curious eyes, you were so similar to the both of them and yet so far different than them both.

“I am Y/n” You told them, for the only thing about yourself that you knew was true was simply the name you were given.

They brought you to their home, a spacious cave surrounded by lush fruit bushes and trees, they welcomed you with Wide and begrudgingly open arms.

You brought uncertainty to them, as they did not know exactly where you fit with them.

Were you a husband? A wife?

Clearly you had to be married to them somehow, why else would you be in the gardens?

Were you to Hunt like Adam?

Were you to gather like Eve?

To help provide? To help nurture?

You didn't know.

They didn't know.

And in the end it was decided that you would be allowed to do both, and both humans showed you all that they knew, even if it was limited and that they themselves were still trying to figure out things much like you, but you welcomed their aid.

Eve showed you what fruits to gather, which vegetables were Adams favorites, she showed you how to weave baskets out of tall grasses to make carrying the foods gathered easier. She happily spoke to you about your shared Husband Adam.

"He is of a stubborn nature, yet he doth provide abundantly.” She tells you as you both gather berries for the night's supper, Adam off hunting.

"Doth he engage in naught else?” You asked her softly as you plucked ripe red berries from the brush. Eve's soft honeyed eyes look at you from over the bushes.

"He is reserved, keeping his heart close, yet when he extends it, his love is profound.” She tells you assuringly, you do not think she understood. But you nodded to her anyways and helped carry the baskets of gathered food back to the home they welcomed you too.

While Adam had not allowed you to join him on a hunt yet, he would ask you to assist when skinning and cleaning whatever animal he had successfully captured.

"Grasp the blade thus, and glide it along the boar's rear in this manner.” He instructed you, he never touched you simply moving his hand above as to guide you. Never hinder your attempt by taking away the stone carved blade he had crafted.

You would glide the blade through the animal's backside lifting the skin away from the meat like Adam would show you and he would take one of the many bowls Eve had made from clay filled with water to wash away the red liquid that would pool and gush from where your blade would glide from.

Once the bowl was empty he would turn to the pond you had not so long ago nearly drowned from when escaping out of it to fill the bowl and come back to wash away the seemingly endless red.

You were soon to learn that He not only provided for Eve and You, But also protected.

As you were too focused on your task, hoping to impress the first man by your quick learning abilities, you did not notice the slithering creature approaching your backside.

You only noticed when Adam grasped your wrist roughly snatching the blade from your hand jerking you away making you fall to the side as you heard the sickening sound of the stone blade stabbing through something fleshy and the harshness of a hiss.

You sputtered, slitting out wisps of your own hair, your hands stung from the ground dirt digging into their pores as you braced yourself from the fall. When you were able to get up once more wanting to shout at your shared husband for attacking you, your words fell on silent lips as you saw him move up from a crouch to a full stance, His blade tipped to the sun as the body of the slithering creature slide down the blade being impaled more. His eyes narrowed in a harsh glance you had never seen on His nor Eve's face before..

You swallowed thickly as you stared at its opened jaw where long spikes jagged outwards from it, its limp body had no other limbs but it was still striking in color.

"What manner of thing is that?” You rasped out as you stared at it.

"I deem it a loathsome creature, named as a snake.” He answers you before flicking his hand that holds the blade, sending the dead animal flying off of it and into the brush before he turns to you moving towards you and taking one of his large hands to help you back to your feet. Those intense scorching eyes moving over you as his hand moved your hair behind your ear.

"Never allow a snake to come near thee, for it bringeth naught but agony.” Adam warned you and you swallowed your eyes going to the bush where he flicked the creature into.

"I shall keep my distance from such creatures.” You promised him as you looked back into his eyes, watching as if the sun was melting in them as they softened his hand moving to your cheek grazing a thumb across your cheek bone.

"Let us hasten back to Eve where she grows anxious in our absence.” He speaks softly to you, perhaps for the first time since your Arrival to Eden before he moves to the boar, with quicker hands he finishes the task at hand before carrying the boar's carcass over his shoulder to carry back to the home you all shared.

His sourching eyes glancing back at you more this time back home to make sure you were safely behind him.

Sometimes you Husband and Wife would leave you at the cave home that you three shared. You never believe it was of ill will, just that they merely wanted to have moments alone together as they had them with you when you helped them with daily expectation chores.

It was when you were left to be alone you tried to understand more about yourself.

As the morning was crisp with fresh air as you moved to the pond, entering its chilled waters you moved to rub its waters over your warmed skin causing an army of bumps to form up. In the water, reflections you took in your appearance moved your hands against your features.

Hair long Like Eves, your face soft and yet sharp like Both of the other humans.

You had thick eyelashes like Adam, but your lips you suppose were supple like Eve's.

Your shoulders Broad, strong and yet have a kiss of femininity.

Your chest was much like Eves, soft, fleshy, Your waist like adams and your hips having a slight curve and dip like Eves.

The biggest difference that separated you from your Husband and Wife was what was below your hip line.

Perhaps it was what confused them at debating what you were to be.

You had both Adam's and Eve's parts.

They never ceased to be a hindrance to you..Nor did Eve or Adam ever demand you to be one or the other.

But you questioned why the Heavens above made you have both.

You stared at your reflection as you were unsure of what to make of yourself before moving on to gaze at your thighs to your feet.

"I trust thou hast acquired the skill of swimming.”

Your eyes snapped up from the pond's waters at the sound of Adam's voice. Your gaze focuses on the shoreline not seeing the first man, before moving to the Gardens forests. The hairs of your skin starting to arise suddenly and a tingling formed on the back of your neck as you tried to find your husband.

"Thou shouldst not linger in the waters for too long, lest thou catchest an ailment.”

The call of your Wife's voice softly called out, yet you could not see any sights of her.

You felt the pounding of your heart in your chest quicken as you turned to check the other side of the pond. You could feel eyes upon your body and it did not feel the eyes of your Husband or Wife.

You felt seen in a way that made a shiver of panic move down your spine as you moved your arms over your chest and a hand to your lower half, covering, hiding.

"Why dost thou not join us?”

Adams' voice called out, yet you could hear the lacking in its tones. Not quite like your husband's voice, close but you knew your husband's voice well enough by now to know that whatever is speaking, taunting you, was not Adam.

"I have discovered the most delicious fruit to share with thee, my dear.”

Eve's voice coaxed out from the trees, Yet it was like song birds and not like morning doves. The coaxing voice called and it only made a cold sweat form on your skin as you turned once again in a new direction trying to find the creatures that had stolen your Husband and Wifes voices.

You felt stalked, preyed upon and it filled you with a sense of dread.

"Come and join our company.” Both the stolen voices called, coaxingly and demandingly.

You grasped yourself together trying to hide as you prayed to the heavens above to keep you safe until you were back in your Wife and Husbands arms as you moved to leave the pond.

“Come”

“come”

You scrambled from the pond's shoreline running in the direction where your shared cave home was, where surely Adam and Eve would be waiting for you. Where you would be safe.

"Why dost thou flee from us, dearest?”

The garden's dirt and rocks dug into your bare soles as you fled through the trees following the path to your home.

"Do not forsake us, return to us, dearest.”

Your heart raced, your lungs burned as you gasped forced air into them as you fled from the stolen voices of your partners. Ever growing closer to the Cave, to home.

"Return! Dost thou not care for us?”

“Dost thou despise us so greatly as to abandon us?”

“Return to us.”

The stolen voices started screaming at you causing whimpers of panic to leap out of your throat, as tears began to sting at your eyes as you fought through the brush's obstacles breaking free of the forest once again and into the clearing where your cave home was waiting.

“Y/n!”

“Y/n Where art thou?!”

Your Husband and Wife's true voices shouted as you scrambled towards the cave, relief washing over you in sharp waves as you could see them standing near the entrance of the cave, puzzled looks morphing into relief as they saw you stumbling out of the forest towards them.

Then the process of watching that relief change as looks of concern as they took in the state of you.

Yet you ran to them, a broken sob stuck in your throat as you hid into their embrace, Gentle and strong arms holding you as your knees started to collapse.

And their safety engulfed you to finally allow that choking sob to let out as you clinged to both Adam and Eve, Your beloved husband and wife.

“What has happened?” Eve's soft voice asked as her warm hands found their way to your hair stroking it ever so softly.

You felt Adams' large hands move you back, as his eyes moved over you to look for any signs of harm.

Your eyes staring up at his own intense golden ones as tears streamed from your eyes like rivers.

“What troubles thee, dearest?” His voice was so soft, suspicion and concern boiling in the golden pools of his eyes.

Your chest ached as the stolen voices of your partners still screamed in your head causing another tremble and a wave of a small sob force from your lips.

“ Snakes.” You gasped out, you haven't seen the creatures that brought this tourment to you, But Adam had warned you of the agony they caused, and that was nothing but agony.

“They summoned me with voices akin to thine own.” You wheezed out, you didn't miss how Eve stiffened nor how Adam stood up tensely, his Eyes immediately staring out into the forest.

His gentle Hands moved to Eve and Your shoulders before leading you both into the cave.

“Remain herein and concealed from view.” He had ordered before he moved to grab his hunting spear leaning against the wall and left for the forest.

You let out a choke wail calling out for your husband to come back, fearful that the snakes will cause him agony like they had you, to prevent him being tormented by hearing your and eves stolen voices summoning him to certain doom.

Your wails fell on Adams deaf ears but on Eves worried ones as she moved you to the shared bedding area and laid you down moving to soothe you.

You cried into her, with warm furrs around your body as you still felt the snake's eyes piercing on your skin. Once you were able to settle down Eve had asked you to explain what had happened.

“They gazed upon me, their stares piercing until I felt as if I was tainted... I am tainted…” You stammered out brokenly as you kept the furs flush against your body, hiding yourself away from your Wife's gaze. You heard her let out a soothing shushing noise as her hands softly moved through your hair.

“Thou art not tainted; thou art pure.” She assured you as she moved to lay beside you her gentle hands moving to the furrs slowly lifting them only stopping when you flinched clinging to them until your knuckles discolored. Tears burned at your eyes as you looked at her with uncertainty.

“Thou art pure.” Eve whispered softly to you as she finally coaxes you to let her under the furrs to join you, moving her body so that you are close to her as she wraps her arms around you leading you to rest your face into her chest, like you've seen her do to Adam when your shared Husband was upset. You now understood why it seemed to calm him as you nuzzled close to Eve looking for her comfort.

“They beheld me, witnessed all, yet how dost thou not despise me?” You whimpered out to your wife in a broken stammer.

Eve's hand that strokes up and down your back, tracing your spine barely hesitates.

“For thou didst not succumb to their guiles, thou didst find us; therein lies the proof of thy purity.” Eve tells you confidently before her gentle fingers weave into your hair softly tugging it making you pull back from her chest to see her honey eyes, and warm loving smile.

“Thou art my spouse, my beloved; I could never harbor hatred toward thee.” *She softly whispered before pressing her lips softly again , causing a surprise jolt through you as you pulled away. You watched her eyes furrow slightly in soft confusion and concern.

“Thou art pure.” She assured you once again watching as you brought fingers to your lips where they still tingled from her own. An action you only saw Eve and Adam do, for they had not done such action to you yet until now.

Your first kiss was one of surprising comfort, And it had concerned you for you did not know if you were allowed to receive such affection from Eve, Your wife without Adam present.

You ever stuck in your internal dilemma missed how Her honey eyes flicked behind you, A Look of concern for you on her face sharing the look on the other, and you let out a noise of surprise as large hands and arms moved around you, another warm body pressed behind you as your back hit the chest of your Husband.

“I banished the serpents, they shall never inflict such feelings upon thee again.” Adams' warm breath brushed against your ear as he whispered out relieving assurance.

You felt great relief and you felt safe and protected in the arms of your Wife and Husband. Your eyes drew heavy as the dark feeling that plagued you in fear finally slain away allowing you to find peace in your beloved ones arms as sleep graces you.

Part 2

#Hazbin Hotel Fanficion #adam x reader #Eve x reader #adam x eve #Adam X reader x Eve #Bible inaccuracies cause i dont know much of anything lmao #adam hazbin x reader #Eve Hazbin x reader

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t-hornapple · 1 year

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ORNAMENT ILLUSTRATION COMMISSIONS - OPEN

the basics:

- black and white linework - traditional ink done on recycled, toothy 24lb paper - usually 7”x9” or 9”x7” - base price starts at $300. Payment is half down, half on delivery - you get the original, jpegs/pngs and one or two prints of it

I am very interested in and comfortable drawing:

- nudity - trans and queer bodies - historical interiors & exteriors - western weapons and armor (from the early middle ages on) - richly patterned fabrics (but richly patterned all sorts of things) - religious motifs - bdsm scenes & fetish wear (leather, pup & pony play, bondage, etc) - occult and esoterica - soulsborne stuff

I do not draw:

- underage or bestiality - furry art (yes, ik there's a small overlap w this in some fetish wear, but I do not draw fursonas) - anything sci-fi, futuristic. mechs, androids, machines, that sort of thing. idk how! - fan art of anything live action, or living people

More detailed info:

‘Ornament Illustrations’ is what I call these highly-patterned black and white linework pieces. Base price for these pieces starts at $300 and goes up for extra complexity. There are no hard-and-fast rules to what is included subject matter wise in that $300. Most subjects (unless it's an orgy of 100 people and you want it drawn to 18" x 24") is gonna fit in a $300 price tag.

(This more simply put: I don't do the type of commissions based on number of characters & complexity of background.)

These are entirely traditionally drawn, and usually put together here and there digitally if I'm layering in patterns, or have a lot of black fill to do. I do not do digital linework or color.

I am not super inclined to draw a lot of fan art, mainly due to unfamiliarity with the subject. I'm open to discussing it however! Some prompts for a commission I might reject for reasons not shown here.

Payment is required half up front, half upon completion. Completion time varies, as this depends on how quickly you get back to me with reviewing sketches. It's usually about 2-4 weeks. I do have shit hands these days, though, and can't ink as much at once as I used to be able to. So my work goes a bit slower now.

For your money, you get:

- the original inked piece - one or two high quality prints of the finished piece - digital files of the work

Please note that I tend to layer in patterns and background shading digitally sometimes, which means they will not show up on the original inking. That's why I provide a print.

I do enjoy being able to provide prints in my shop of commissioned pieces, but let the client choose whether or not they want prints made available to the public.

How to commission:

Email me at thornapplepress(a)gmail.com with your idea. It can be fully fleshed out—Hades as a leather daddy & Cerberus as a non-binary sub in 3-headed pup play—or more vague—something sapphic, intimate and lush.

I do my best to get back to commission requests in 2-3 days, but please do note that I don’t do email on the weekends to help preserve my attempt at work/life balance and my sanity.

#my art #commissions

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tvickiesims · 2 years

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Shrubs Default Replacement + Custom Versions

A complete replacement of almost all shrubs found in game. Now they are bigger, more lush and hopefully look more like their real-life counterparts.

There’s also a custom version of each shrub (lupin only has a V2 version as cutom) with all recolors in case you’d like to keep Maxis ones. It can be used alongside default replacement, it’s also seasonal and behaves just like Maxis shrubs but doesn’t need to be trimmed. These were cloned from Bienchen83′s seasonal shrubs that I’ve modified to be recolorable.

Shrubs replaced: bougainvillea, fountain of grass, hibiscus, hydrangea, oleander, phlox, rose, seaweed called "Big Pond Peddlers Sea Pod”, sunflower and lupin (in V1 they got some minor color tweaks on their leaves but V2 is a complete replacement of their model).

There’s also a V2 version for sunflower, lupin and phlox:

Be sure to choose only one version!

IMPORTANT!

This replacement is incompatible with replacements for shrubs that change their texture, mesh or both. It is also incompatible with @an-elegant-simblr plant fixes (with a few exceptions of shrubs and hedges that I didn’t include in this replacement). All recolors will be broken too. I’ve already integrated my no sheen fix for sunflower and lupin in their packages so you can delete those files if you were using them. The overgrown state of all shrubs looks the same as normal state so visually you won’t see any difference until you click on it. I didn’t test it thoroughly because I use Perfect Plants mod so please report any problems.

- - -

All meshes are my own conversions from The Sims 4 (but sunflower V2 replacement is a Wood For Sims sunflower shrub (original can be found at the booty here) for which I made additional matching recolors). Because they have undersides, polycount became higher for all shrubs but never exceeds 3000 polys. Textures were mostly taken from Witcher 3 (extracted by saricoya and shared here) as well as various images found online. Voeille’s plant fixes were used as reference to create winter states for sunflower and lupin V1.

Everything is separated so you can pick and choose what you’d like to have in your game.

Be aware that one file - Tvickiesims_Hibiscus_DR - has the same name as hibiscus tree replacement I’ve posted earlier. Do not overwrite! Thank you to @plumbtales for letting me know!

NOW HAS A REDUX VERSION - same shrubs and textures but lower polycount. Please note that the way I did it doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll ease the strain on your graphics card (according to wiki). You can always switch to the original version if you have any problems with the new one.

Polycount:

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UPDATE 25/08

For DR only: Forgot to replace phlox’s overgrown state. If you noticed your phlox reverted to its Maxis shape when overgrown - please redownload!

UPDATE 01/09

Slightly reworked Hibiscus’ texture to no longer have that white trim, especially visible when zooming out. Both links were updated, please redownload!

UPDATE 11/09

Added a V2 version for sunflower and lupin default replacement shrubs. Be sure to keep only one version!

UPDATE 24/10

Added a V2 version for phlox, re-fixed phlox’s overgrown state, smoothed out several meshes, added phlox’s V2 to custom shrubs (it can be used alongside V1 only as custom version), changed mod’s description and added polycount.

UPDATE 28/10

Added a redux version of all the shrubs (custom and dr) and adjusted hydrangea recolors (new mesh only, custom and dr).

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Trees replacement is here

Flowers replacement is here

Desert plants replacement is here

Tropical plants replacement is here

Compressed, clearly labelled, pictures included.

Download Default Replacement (SFS)

Download Default Replacement - REDUX (SFS)

Download Custom (SFS)

Download Custom - REDUX (SFS)

Download REDUX-adjusted hydrangea recolors (custom and dr) (SFS)

#s2 #s2cc #default replacement #default #mydr #bytvickiesims #shrubs #plants by tvickiesims

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yourlocaltreesimp · 8 months

Text

Memories I hope to Hold

Cal!LinkxReader Hurt/Comfort I think

TW: Mentions of death and the Calamity but that’s really it

Not edited, please excuse my poor spelling

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*

Today you were going to die. You had less qualms with it than you originally expected. After everything that had happened in the past few months or was it a year yet? death just seemed like an unfortunate add on to the many, many things out of your control. The sun hadn’t even breached the horizon, yet you didn’t miss its warmth. You’d only have until midday to bask in it if you were lucky, and even then you weren’t sure you wanted to. Despite the early morning dew still sticking to the grass, some of Hateno was awake with you. The tech lab, for which you’d been residing since your arrival, if you could even call it that, had white tufts of smoke pluming out from its stone chimney. Purah and Robbie had been lovely friends, letting you chip in with your knowledge about Hyrule. It was amazing to have ears that listened rather than dismissing you, you might not have been from Hyrule, but that didn’t mean that you knew nothing. Of course, you knew the story’s beginning. But more importantly, you knew it’s morbid end. The world to dust and ashes and everyone you knew either laying within their graves or just about approaching. You looked over your map one more time, each shrine you wished to visit pinned carefully. Your hand hovered over the glass screen of your sheikah ‘switch’, your old and once broken nintendo switch repaired with sheikah magic. Purahs birthday gift to you. You pressed decisively on the Central tower.

You looked out at the field you arrived here in, nothing but your switch and the clothes off your back. The sun painted the familiar field a soft gold, so deceptively welcoming. You thought back to that very day, surly a year ago by now.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

Your head was splitting. The open sky above you swirled and faded in and out. Your limbs were made of lead and two voices spoke words you could not make out, but it didn’t matter, you could not bring yourself to care.

When your eyes flicked back open you were met with an incredibly confusing sight. Lush grass for hundreds of meters around, wildflowers dotting the green field with bright color, your switch was now shattered on your chest and you were not on Earth anymore. No. Not close. Two familiar blondes stared at you. One set of green eyes, incredibly concerned, eyebrows knitted with worry. The other set of blue, distrusting and guarded, arm extended to keep the other back, but beneath the harshness, you saw fragility. Maybe not now, granted, but you knew it was there. But so long spent observing Link’s journeys and memories, it’s difficult to fool you with hardened eyes and armour after you saw what lay beneath. You sat up, pushing off the ground to stand, shuffling back on your feet. The blood drained from your head, leaving you woozy and dizzy. You righted yourself as carefully as you could, not wishing to do yourself any more damage.

“U-Uh Where…” Words came slow and difficult, like the words had to pass through a coffee filter to get out, “Where are we?” You knew- well, you didn’t know but you had an idea.

“Central Hyrule, South east of Castle Town. What are you- How did you get here?” The princess had an equal parts wonder as distrust in her tone. You made your decisions rapidly, pretending not to know too much might fair well depending on what they know.

“Hyrule? Castle town? Forgive me I am… Unfamiliar… How did I?” You looked around, the familiar tower glowing a brilliant blue stood tall behind you. You staggered back, trying still to comprehend what it was you were seeing. “What on Earth? I don’t.” You turned back around to see the two moved away from you when you moved closer. You tried your hardest to not take it personally. “I’m sorry, I’m not quite sure myself.” Your voice was quiet and tapered off, the familiar bite of panic knawed just behind your sternum. Your lungs drew their breaths quicker, your aching mind tried to race to a probable conclusions and drawing up blanks.

“You do not know of Hyrule?”

Yes. “No.”

“How Peculiar”

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

How peculiar it was indeed. Moreover that you ended up staying with the both of them for longer after that. It was funny how that entire conversation determined everything that happened afterward. Zelda and you worked on the study of the divine beast and their functions, you learned a great deal of Hyrule’s history and culture from her, adapting to your new home. And Link… well you had just as many words to describe him as words he had to say. Infinitely many, and yet no mix of them could truly ever make sense, to you or to anyone else. Besides, You had to get home, not dwell on such trivial thoughts and such sharp eyes and caring nature and selfless kindness. The world demanded your attention elsewhere, and so you went. Your fingers hovered carefully over the Akh Va’quot shrine before feeling yourself be whisked away.

You tugged your cloak around you as the familiar bite of Hebra’s wind hit once more. Rito Village bustled with the early morning chores, children running around and adults setting up their businesses. You remembered the first time you came here like it was yesterday, the so many rows of stairs captivating in combination with the bird people that inhabited it.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

You could hardly contain yourself as you made you way up all of the stairs. You were spellbound -as you frequently were by Hyrule, how couldnt you?- by the rolling mountains and staggering peaks of Hebra around you. The rest of the champions were already met at Revali’s landing, talking with one another with practiced ease you’d yet to find. You hung back, admiring the views while Zelda and Link passed, letting them join the flow of conversation before you had to. Greetings were exchanged, some even to you which you tried to meet with the same warmth. And yet you couldn’t find it in yourself. Looking at the group of champions, you couldn’t help but feel like an add on… an extra piece of a puzzle there was no room for. You’d met with them more than a few times before, and every time you were met with nothing but welcome, especially after they were informed of your circumstance (and got over their rightful unease). You were so withdrawn that you failed to notice the group trying to draw your attention. You jumped slightly as a gentle hand rested on your shoulder, tensing completely before relaxing. The group stared at you for a moment, and all you wanted to do was leave, to run into the forest and never have to face them again. You might’ve, If it weren’t for Link’s hand on your shoulder, keeping you just the slightest bit grounded.

“Hey, (y/n) you alright?” Daruk was hardly ever worried, as he hardly ever had much that could cause genuine threat to him.

“Yeah sorry I just- I- We dont have sights like this back home and I guess I just feel a little homesick.” Not technically a lie, but not a whole truth.

“Understandable. Rito village is a sight for everyone, even for those from Hyrule. It is no surprise you’re captivated.” Revali crossed his arms? wings? And closed his eyes with confidence, smirking if he could. You allowed yourself a polite smile and another look at the surrounding mountains.

“I find myself more impressed the longer I stay here. It only makes me want to see more. I will say, Zoras domain can’t be topped by anything in my mind.” Mipha smiles gratefully, you’d managed to form a genuine connection with her, especially considering how sweet she was. The rest of that evening went smoothly, plans and conversation explained and discussed over a long dinner.

By the end, the sun was nearly gone, its warmth leaving with it. As you began to leave for the castle, a familiar grey cloak was slipped around your shoulders. It smelled vaguely of pine and grass, sunken into the fabric to the point it couldn’t be removed. You stared at the knight as he walked away from you, a flush growing over your cheeks with your endearing smile.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

You still smiled at the memory, something so trivial at the time was so… easy to read now. You checked the time- shit. You were running late. You had give or take two or three hours left before the sky came falling in. Before the worlds malice stood to fight once more. You didn’t think twice this time before clicking on the Mogg Latan shrine.

Mount Satori was just as beautiful as it always was. The twisting cherry tree letting its fragile pink blossoms fall into the clear water. Silent princesses bloomed around the rocks in the water. You could see your own bittersweet smile in the reflection.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

“Where in the world are you taking me” Link led you determinedly by the hand, mischievous smile taken his face when he told you he had something to show you. Being wholly honest he could’ve shown you a wall of wet paint and you’d have watched it dry if it made him happy.

“You’re awfully impatient” Goddesses how you loved his voice, rare as it was. You could hear his sass, making you role your eyes in turn.

“You’re awfully secretive.” To be fair he couldn’t rebuke that, there was no lie in your words. So he simply kept moving onward.

Your breath was stolen as you looked at the lake in front of you. The familiar time-old cherry blossom in full bloom. A single pink petal fell, rippling against the clear water. You kept your hand weaved with Link’s as you maces closer. After admiring the scene before you your lips pursed to get out a word.

“Link- This- It’s utterly gorgeous” Your words were nearly gone with the wind, not wanting to intrude into the serenity with your words.

“Really is.” You turned to face him and his tender words to find his eyes already on yours. Now you were really speechless. His eyes were softened and cheeks slightly flushed as he took you in, memorising your face. And you found yourself doing the same, but there wasn’t much you hadn’t already noticed. The hairline scar aver his lip, sun spots over his cheeks from so long under the suns rays, wild sandy bangs obscuring his eyes from your view.

“One of the sights I want to hold onto and never let go” His words were equally as quiet now, as if he didn’t want even you to hear them. And in one of your rare moments of courage you found it in you to speak.

“Then don’t.” He took you in his arms so gently, wrapping himself around you as if you’d shatter. But even with that, you knew when you were flush that you’d never truly leave this moment. You were met with the same scent again, pine and grass. He pulled back sooner than what you would’ve liked, but he did not give you long to mourn the loss. A calloused hand gently traced your jaw before his eyes of the endless sky above met with yours again. He kissed you slow and longing, so long spent yearning for you that it bled into his affection. Link had always felt himself tugging you closer, wanting to enjoy the moment before he was forced to abandon it. And he always was.

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

In hindsight, you did get too attached. But you wouldn’t blame yourself, how could you? You were given the chance to be love and be loved in return that you didn’t see how far you’d fall afterward. But maybe meeting the world with open arms really was worth it. Maybe finally figuring out your place in the world was worth it. And maybe letting yourself fall for a love you could never have was worth it as well. A shrill cry pierced the once cerulean blue sky as it bled carmine red. You knew how the story ended, so how foolish you were to hope you could avoid it.

#legend of zelda #link x reader #link x you #angst #age of calamity #calamity ganon #x reader #hurt/comfort

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emotionallyattachednerd · 7 months

Text

Downtime | Bayverse Crosshairs x Drift | NSFW 18+

Word count: 1700+

Warnings: Smut ( touching and spike in valve ) mech x mech and mentions of violent past. NSFW 18+.

Notes: My first m x m, first cc x cc, and first bayverse! Honestly, I do enjoy the bayverse and knightverse movies. I love them all. Animations just have more meanining to me. Anyway, here it is, and I hope it's what you imagined it to be. Sorry for the delay. Enjoy. 🥰

Amica Endura - Long term best friend.

Conjux Endura - Significant other.

Drift would often awake from recharge through a sharp vent, spark pulsing and optics brightly lit, only to calm himself once he realises that he wasn't where he thought he was, but at peace, at least that's what he thinks. It's more peaceful than the troubled past he came from.

He felt all he could offer the universe was death. That was no way to live.

Not many knew of his past, but those few that did kept his secret. The less that knew the better, and most that knew before were offline anyway. Less whispers and ghosts to follow him.

Drift used to be a decepticon at the start of their war. His name was Deadlock, a devoted fighter, cunning, respected, and had a special skill for violence. Fighting for Megatron was an honour at first, but he got carried away with dominance and power, becoming obsessed to destroy not just the autobots but the whole universe. To him, the meaning to fight for decepticons no longer had meaning.

He started to doubt, and that's when he started hearing every horrified scream and remembering every face of all the lives he ever took. He needed an escape, and that happened when he met Crosshairs. Originally the autobot was captured and he was in charge of extracting information. He always did without hesitation.

Crosshairs was annoying, never shut up, and was a horrible flirt towards him while being his prisoner, and he couldn't help but fall in love with that stupid face. He couldn't do it. He let him loose and they made their escape together, but it almost cost him his own life. Crosshairs saved him and brought him back to the autobots where he was given a second chance. He proved himself and he became an autobot.

But the damage was already done.

During his time with the autobots it's Crosshairs that pretty much watched over him, teamed up on missions, and pretty much acted so smug and annoying towards him, which he liked. Eventually Crosshairs became his amica, and at some point along the way, he became his conjux.

Enemies to lovers.

For thousands of years they are together, as soldiers and lovers, and over this time Drift's past seems to always follow. No matter how much he wanted to redeem himself, he'll never forget the choices he made.

Now on earth they are forced into hiding, ordered by Optimus Prime to stay hidden and have no contact with the humans. Turns out humans were hunting them, and deep down Drift didn't blame them. Crosshairs called them greedy buggers, saying humans were only thinking of themselves and he was right.

It's their kind that have invaded their home, their world, rained chaos in their long war. The humans didn't want them around anymore and Drift understood, but they had no other home and no way to leave earth, so staying put is the only thing to do.

In these moments Crosshairs could read Drift so easily and knew what to do to bring any form of peace to his lover. One thing Drift loves about earth is the nature, the green lush forests, there is a calming aura that he embraces whenever possible.

When it happens, Crosshairs knows what to do.

"We don't need to be out here." Drift tries to tell him as he's pulled by his servo through the thicket of the jungle forest. "It was one bad dream, it happens sometimes to everyone."

"Yeah, it happens, and I'm not going to ignore it. I'll drag your pretty ass out here a thousand times more if I have." Crosshairs only cared about Drift and keeping his processor as calm as possible.

"And after a thousand times? Then what?" Drift is only answered with Crosshairs sending him a wicked smile.

"No one keeps count darling."

Drift finds himself laying on the cool forest ground, optics gazing up through the thick tree leafs that hang over him and float against the light breeze blowing through and the sun rays shining through the open areas. Peaceful.

"There we go, nice and calm, yeah?" Crosshairs lets out a tame whisper while laying beside his lover to join him.

"Thank you, my love. You always know how to take care of me. I do apologise that my dreams affect you as well, I wish they didn't."

"Enough of that sap. You're my conjux, and it's part of my duty to take care of you."

"I just wish my past would stop at some point..." It's something Drift does say often.

"Drift, you can't change the past. What you have, that shit is going to follow you always. There's no escaping." His words weren't harsh, but real. "That's why I'm here for you, to help you however I can and love you and your beautiful ass."

"Charming." Drift shroffs through a light chuckle.

Crosshairs shifts closer to nuzzling into his soft neck cables making Drift's optics shutter close from the tenderness, venting softly as his systems went with the calmness that surrounded him.

This went on for a while, welcoming Crosshairs touches and light kisses, before feeling his servo cascade towards his panel cover, earning a minor moan from Drift. Of course this is what his conjux had in mind for them while out here. Better than a dark cave Drift thought to himself.

"Why am I not surprised?" Drift can't help but say softly before shifting a moan feeling the touches press between his thighs at his panel.

"Interfacing can help distract, and release stress." His answer wasn't wrong but Drift wasn't going to agree with him, knowing he'll just brag about it.

Crosshairs always does this, thinking he was a king to make Drift overload so easily in his calm mood, which he always does anyway and Drift wasn't going to complain. He likes it when Crosshairs gives himself so easily in any given moment.

Retracting his panel Drift lets a gentle moan leave him as his vents hitch and kick into a bit of speed feeling his systems already warm up just from his simple touches. His spike emerges from its housing and Crosshairs doesn't hesitate to take hold of his already throbbing length, digits ghosting across his sensitive tip.

Drift feels his shadow and onlines his optics only to be greeted with his lips across his own in a tender smooth, gently his glossa invades and coils around his own while he continues to mildly pump Drift's spike. It's moments like these that have a different kind of calmness, peace, that Crosshairs knew all too well has helped him in the past. He knew exactly what he was doing.

The kiss stays tender between them, warmth clouding their lips as they keep the slow pace together, lingering moans devoured by one another in the slowly growing passionate moment.

Crosshairs straddles himself over Drift while keeping the kiss firm, his own panel already retracted and valve eager to be filled. He grinds himself against Drift's spike, valve lips running along his ridged length and flickering against his delicate node.

"Oh baby...already get me so lubricated and ready just from the sight of you." Crosshairs purrs against Drift's parted lips as his lover drags his glossa across his metal plated chin.

"I thought it was us sparing that gets you most excited." Drift can't help but hint a playful tone through his voice.

"I'm allowed multiple turn ons."

"Everything about me turns you on."

Crosshairs grins against his cheek plating. "You're not wrong there, sweet spark."

Drift lets out a stuttered moan as his throbbing spike is suddenly wrapped around the tight warmth of Crosshairs valve, sinking down directly onto his length before he brings his servos up to rest them against his mate's green armoured waist before feeling him fully sink down on him.

"You like that?" Crosshairs murmurs against his audio, teasing him by rocking his hips down slow and hard against him. "Like me humping you good?"

"I wish for this to be a beautiful moment to remember, not a quick rut." Drift would ask for this sometimes.

"Fine, I'll shut up, make it all pretty and poetic just for you." Crosshairs lets out a snicker and shares a kiss with him, still keeping his hips steady and slow against him.

Drift's servos roam up and down his waist, holding back his sounds and admiring his mate on him with that beautiful flirtatious face of his hanging over his vision.

"Don't shut up, love."

"Anything for you, baby."

Crosshairs starts to rock himself more firmly, grinding the throbbing spike buried deep in his valve before moving his hand to his own twitching spike to stroke himself in sync with his movements, adding to the growing arousal.

Drift lets out soft curses in cybertronian, optics flickering as his plating all over his frame heats up, and manages to move his hips up against Crosshairs movements. He kissed his mate again before allowing him to sit up and use his strength to pick up the fierceness movement, grunting growing longer.

His spike twitched even more with every passing second and neared his overload, but wanted to hold back, though Crosshairs wasn't making that easy.

"Nah ah, don't hold back. I want to feel you, all of you, everything you can give. Come one, baby, give me the juice."

That was all it takes for Drift to overload, moaning loudly through a choked grunt and fill his trans fluids deep within his mate while he continues to ride his cable, clenching and pumping himself like mad before he finally came undone, spraying his own fluids against Drift's front armour.

"Beautiful artwork." He comments through heated vents, grinning through that silly overload grin of his that Drift loves so much.

Drift holds him down a little long, keeping him there before leaning up to kiss him. Eventually Crosshairs dows slide off him and they lay together, frames in contact and servos gently soothing over one another.

"I love you, my beautiful conjux." Drift whispers while nuzzling closer against his side, embracing his mate and the nature surrounding them.

"I know." Crosshairs will never change, and Drift never wanted him to change. "I love you as well."

#transformers #valveplug #bayverse #crosshairs #drift #deadlock #crosshairs x drift #canon x canon #mech x mech #writing #fanfiction #smut #sugarrusheag #I wrote this way too late

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operafantomet · 5 months

Note

I am definitely not a costume expert, aficionado, or anything whatsoever. Can you explain what you mean by the Star Princess dresses not fitting the actors properly?

Let's do the opposite: What is the hallmark of a good bodice?

To ME... a well-fitting bodice will enhance the wearer's own shape and features. This means that the proportions are right, not too long, not too short, it will cinch the waist in a flattering way, lift the bust, and flair out over the skirt to allow a nice bell shape. The silk should also not wrinkle in an obvious way. Ideally it should also reflect back on Maria Björnson's original design, doing it justice.

A bodice I think ticks all the boxes is one worn by Viktoria Krantz Tocca in Copenhagen 2002:

The length is good for her, with an extra emphasis on the pointed bodice front. Then the curved tabs are shorter at the sides, which allows the skirt to curve out. Note too that the pointed front and curved tabs are identical in colour to the skirt. The pink of the bodice is solely in this area so the lower part visually blends with the skirt.

The waistline is underlined just at her natural waistline, both in the tailoring and colour. The middle area is purple, the darkest of the three colours in the bodice, which adds to a sense of narrow waist. Then rich fringes and gathers over the bust, to exaggerate the hourglass shape of the torso.

Note too that the decorations over the bust curves down in the middle, to balance out the pointed front. Had it been high over the bust, the bodice would have looked too long.

This bodice has extraordinary rich beading, which makes the whole thing lush. But the beading also curve inwards, to further emphasis the narrow waist. All in all, it creates a flattering hourglass shape, while also visually connecting the bodice to the skirt.

Now, when I think a bodice is not well fitted it is because it works against the wearer. Lily Kerhoas' bodice in the West End revival is one example. Why? To me her bodice feels too long for her as it both feature a long pointed front and is quite high over the bust. It also feels too narrow over the hips, so the tabs don't flare out over the skirt. This in turn makes the silk wrinkle both in front and in the waist. The whole bodice ends up looking top-heavy and not giving much room for the skirt (if a good hourglass shape is the point, anyway).

It doesn't mean the bodice itself is not well made, it is just not a good match for the actress, and doesn't give much room for the skirt. At first I was sure it was a hand-me-down bodice, but it turns out it was made for her out-of-house, and likely without the skirt. Making the costume in full, in-house, might have made it easier to fit it up as a cohesive whole? I don't know.

It might be unfair to show a backstage photo when the costumes are made for the stage, for movement, for bold stage light. It can change the look of a costume a LOT. But I don't really think it is too successful on stage either. There are fitting issues in the waist and around the hips, and it still looks too high over the bust. Well, according to my gospel, anyway. But the bodice colours blend very well with the skirt, I'll give them that.

It is also not uncommon for hand-me-down bodices to not fit the new actress great. I am pretty sure Jenna Burns (right) inherited hers from Katie Travis (left). The bodice was newly made for Travis, and hence fits her well. On Burns it looks a bit too too long, especially over the bust, and it wrinkles massively in the waist. I suspect from a re-tailoring. So to me not a great fit on Jenna Burns - but not the fault of either bodice nor actress, just a poor fit as the bodice was made for someone else.

So yeah, a good Star Princess bodice takes the actress' proportions into account, underlines the good features of the actress, and creates optical illusions of an hourglass by the use of colours, beading and tailoring. Unlike most new UK and Restaged Tour bodices a good bodice also adds the little extra in the decorations to reflect on Maria Bjørnson's original design.

Some more examples of masterly made and fitted bodices:

To be fair, basically every single US style bodice, including... Elizabeth Loyacano in Las Vegas:

Kimilee Bryant in the US Tour and on Broadway:

Elizabeth Welch, US Tour:

Zoë Curlett, UK Tour and West End:

Claire Lyon, World Tour revival:

Raquel Paulin, Sao Paulo revival:

Kimilee Bryant, Basel:

(and not a complete list, by any means... just the ones that popped into my head while on the subject)

#very subjective opinions yo #star princess #star princess bodice #phantom of the opera #maria bjørnson

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astrojulia · 11 months

Text

More than Seaweeds

Mermaid's Herbal Compendium

Navigation: Masterlist✦Ask Rules✦Feedback Tips

Askbox✦Sources✦Paid Readings

Name: Basil

Scientific name: Ocimum selloi Benth.

Disclaimer: As English is not my native language, there may be some errors in scientific expressions. I am also using local resources.

TECHNICAL USAGE

History:

Due to the shape of its leaves (heart), it was considered a symbol of love in Italy and of mourning in Greece. (Portal São Francisco, 2016)

4,000 years ago, the Hindus, who were percussionists in the culture of basil, exported it to Egypt. (Portal São Francisco, 2016)

In the last century, basil was used by shoemakers to attenuate the smell of leather. (Portal São Francisco, 2016)

The name "basilicum" has its origin in the Greek "basilikós," which means "of the kings or royal," to indicate its nobility. The Greek botanist Theophrastus, in the 3rd century BC, defined basil as an herb of kings. (History of Ingredients, 2016)

Description:

Plant characteristics: Basil is an herbaceous plant grown in gardens and widely known throughout Brazil. It is characterized by the pleasant smell that is released from its leaves. It has a quadrangular stem, and the leaves are opposite, sharp, and abundant. The plant produces small white flowers arranged on an elongated axis, with secondary inflorescences formed on each axis. The corolla has four pieces, and the plant bears fruit with four dark nuclei. It is a meliferous plant. Basil can be propagated by seeds or cuttings taken from the branches. It thrives in fertile soils rich in organic matter, permeable, and with high temperatures. (Treatise on Medicinal Plants, 2014)

Propagation: Basil can be propagated by seeds or cuttings from branches. Basil seeds are sown in 200-cell expanded polystyrene trays containing commercial substrate and kept in protected cultivation. At 30 days after sowing, the seedlings have four definitive leaves and are suitable for transplanting. (PEREIRA; MOREIRA, 2011)

Cultivation: Seedlings can be planted in pots or nurseries throughout the year. For this, the beds must be well prepared, raised to a height of 15 cm. Use 150 g of well-tanned bovine manure per square meter of bed and mix well. Sow the seeds and cover with 0.5 cm of light soil or fine sawdust. The recommended spacing is 30 cm between lines and 30 cm between plants. Irrigate at least once a day, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon. After 60 days of planting in the beds, the first harvest can be made by cutting the plant at 20 cm from the soil. (PEREIRA; MOREIRA, 2011)

How to choose and where to find:

Fresh: Fresh bunches and pots of basil can be found in fairs, markets, and supermarkets. Choose branches with lush leaves that are not stained or wilted.

Dry: Dry basil can be found in supermarkets and specialty stores. Look for products in dark packaging, protected from light, to prevent loss of aroma. Check the expiration date.

How to Store:

Fresh:

Basil spoils quickly, but it can be packed in plastic packaging and dried for up to three days at most.

Chop the leaves and place them in a closed glass container with oil.

Dry: Store in a sealed container, away from light and humidity.

How to dry:

Buy two large bundles of basil, wash them well, and spread them on a clean cloth until dry.

Separate the leaves and make layers of leaves in a glass bowl, alternating with thin layers of coarse salt.

Cover the glass bowl with plastic wrap and leave it at room temperature.

Stir once a day for the first three days.

The dried basil can be used for up to two months. The leaves become dry, and the salt absorbs the aroma of basil. You can use only the leaves or also the coarse salt.

Chemical Composition:

Tannins: Tannins are astringent and hemostatic, and their therapeutic applications are related to these properties. They are mainly used in the tanning and paint industries. They are also used in laboratories to detect proteins and alkaloids and as antidotes in cases of poisoning by alkaloid plants.

Flavonoids: The therapeutic functions of flavonoids are not yet fully understood. The group is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and vasoprotective effects (treatment of thrombosis). Rutin and hesperidin are important flavonoids used in the treatment of capillary fragility.

Saponins: Saponoside glycosides are named for their ability to form abundant foam when agitated with water (from Latin "frog" = soap). They taste bitter and acrid, and drugs containing them are usually sternutatory (cause sneezing) and irritating to the mucous membranes. They are non-nitrogen compounds that dissolve in water, producing foaming solutions by decreasing the surface tension of the liquid. They also have the properties of emulsifying oils and causing hemolysis. The latter is due to the ability of the glycoside to combine with the cholesterol molecules present in the erythrocyte membrane, disrupting the internal-external balance and promoting the rupture of the cell, resulting in the release of hemoglobin.

Essential Oils:

o Thymol: It has carminative, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It also has significant antiseptic potential. o Methyl-chavicol: It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, local anesthetic, and insecticidal activities. o Linalool: It is used for its woody, floral, and refreshing aroma. o Eugenol: It has anesthetic, bactericidal, antifungal, and flavoring properties, with a hot and spicy note. o Cineol: It has decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties and gives a eucalyptus aroma. o Pyrene

Herbal Actions:

Digestant: An herb that promotes good digestion.

Carminative: Herbs or essential oils that help the intestines release gas by relaxing gut spasms and increasing peristalsis to expel gas.

Sweetener: It has the ability to sweeten.

Aperientes: Aperientes herbs are mild laxatives.

Indications: Basil is beneficial for those who have difficulties in digestion, gas, heartburn, and headaches resulting from heavy or inadequate food. It facilitates the functioning of the intestines and acts as a diuretic. It is good for coughs, vomiting, and bad breath. Along with malva and sage, it helps in mouth infections.

Dosage: There is little information on the safe and effective dosage of basil. Usually, 10 to 20 ml of fresh basil leaf juice is used once a day, or teas can be made by infusing 2 grams of fresh basil or dried herb in boiling water twice a day.

Contraindications: Basil is not suitable for long-term use in children, and it should not be used by pregnant women in the first three months of pregnancy.

MAGICAL USAGE

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mars

Element: Fire

Deities: Ares, Eros, Zeus, Apollo, Vishnu, and Krishna

Tarot Cards: The Empress, Justice, Six of Swords, Ten of Cups

Zodiac: Virgo, Scorpio, Sagittarius

Sabbath: Yule, Imbolc

Magical Uses (under observation of effectiveness): Basil is linked to love, health, exorcism, and clairvoyance in magical practices. Its fresh leaves can be used as a natural scent to attract passion. Hanging some branches around the house can protect the environment and bring permanent joy. In some ancient cultures, basil was placed on the chest of the dead as a symbol of a passport to paradise. Fun fact: There are over 64 types of basil. (GORI, 2021)

Therapeutic and Enchanted Recipes:

PROSPERITY TEA:

INGREDIENTS: 1 teaspoon of basil, 1 teaspoon of thyme.

PREPARATION: Heat the water for 10 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the basil and thyme and let it steep for 15 minutes.

CLAIRVOYANCE TEA:

INGREDIENTS: 1 teaspoon of basil, 1 teaspoon of hibiscus.

PREPARATION: Heat the water for 10 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the basil and hibiscus and let it steep for 15 minutes. Drink four sips before your divination practices, especially oracles.

MIX OF HERBS FOR LOVE:

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup of basil, 1 cup of rose petals and buds, 1/2 cup of patchouli leaves, 1/2 cup of lavender flowers, 2 tablespoons of dragon's blood.

PREPARATION: Place this herbal mixture in a bowl in your home to attract love.

HAPPY SIPS:

*This is a recipe that makes me feel really happy...

INGREDIENTS: Fresh basil leaves, fresh strawberries.

PREPARATION: Make a flavored water by adding as much basil and strawberry as your heart desires. Let it sit for a while (to taste) and drink it. I used to make this a lot when working at the office, and it made me feel fresh and happy.

Sources:

CUNNINGHAM, Scott. Enciclopédia das Ervas Mágicas do Cunningham. 1ª ed. São Paulo: Editora Alfabeto, 2021.

PRIETO, Claudiney. Rituais de Magia com o Tarô. 1ª ed. São Paulo: Editora Alfabeto, 2021.

GORI, Tânia. Herbologia Mágica. 2ª ed. São Paulo: Editora Alfabeto, 2021.

CABOT, Laurie; CABOT, Penny; PENCZAK, Cristopher. Tradução de Virginia Dalbo. Livro de Feitiços de Laurie Cabot. 3ª ed. São Paulo. Editora Alfabeto, 2021.

LADDY, Brianna. Apostila Magia das Ervas. 2019. Her Instagram

LADDY, Brianna. 25 Feitiços usando a Magia das Ervas. 2021. Her Instagram

MINHAVIDA. Manjericão alivia problemas intestinais e tem ação anti-inflamatória. Disponível em: https://www.minhavida.com.br/materias/materia-11744#:~:text=Existe%20pouca%20informa%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20sobre%20a,fervente%20duas%20vezes%20ao%20dia. Acesso em: 11 abr. 2021.

SOCIEDADE BRASILEIRA DE FARMACOGNOSIA. Taninos. Disponível em: http://www.sbfgnosia.org.br/Ensino/taninos.html. Acesso em: 11 abr. 2021.

PARODI, Lorenzo. MANJERICÃO. Disponível em: http://www.ingredientes.blog.br/. Acesso em: 11 abr. 2021.

PORTAL SÃO FRANCISCO. Manjericão. Disponível em: https://www.portalsaofrancisco.com.br/alimentos/manjericao#:~:text=Devido%20%C3%A0%20forma%20de%20suas%20folhas%2C%20(cora%C3%A7%C3%A3o)%2C%20era,atenuar%20o%20cheiro%20do%20couro. Acesso em: 11 abr. 2021.

GRANDI, Telma Sueli Mesquita. Tratado das plantas medicinais [recurso eletrônico]: mineiras, nativas e cultivadas. 1. ed. – Dados eletrônicos. Belo Horizonte: Adaequatio Estúdio, 2014. (Download the book HERE)

HOFFMANN, David. Tradução Euclides Luiz Calloni. O guia completo das plantas medicinais: ervas de A a Z para tratar doenças; restabelecer a saúde e o bem-estar. 1ª ed. São Paulo: Cultrix, 2017.

(CC) AstroJulia Some Rights Reserved

#astrojulia #astrology #witchblr #astroblr #all about astrology #astro community #astro observations #astrology notes #witch community #herbology #all about witchcraft #herbs #basil #spells

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peanut-butter-parkerxx · 29 days

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Brushstrokes of New Orleans: 002

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⋆♱✮☽🦇☽✮♰⋆

The garden of the Mikaelson mansion was a symphony of colors and textures, a lush tapestry woven from the finest threads of nature. Vibrant blooms cascaded from trellises and arbors, their petals kissed by the golden rays of the setting sun.

The air was alive with the heady scent of jasmine and honeysuckle, mingling with the earthy fragrance of damp soil. As Elijah and I wandered through the garden, I couldn't help but be struck by the beauty that surrounded us. Tall hedges of boxwood formed intricate mazes, their dark green foliage a stark contrast against the blooms that flourished at their feet.

The path beneath our feet was paved with smooth cobblestones, their surface worn by the passage of time. Elijah cut a striking figure against the backdrop of the garden, his tall frame clad in a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers, his hazel eyes sparkled in the fading light. His movements were graceful and measured, each step a testament to his poise and refinement.

Beside him, I felt small and insignificant, a mere mortal in the presence of a god. My own appearance felt inadequate in comparison, my simple dress and worn sneakers a far cry from the elegance of Elijah's attire.

As we walked, Elijah pointed out various artifacts hidden among the foliage, his gestures graceful and fluid. He moved with a quiet confidence, his every movement imbued with a sense of purpose and grace. His voice was smooth and melodic, a soothing balm to my restless soul.

I, on the other hand, felt awkward and clumsy by comparison, my movements hesitant and uncertain. I stumbled over roots and rocks, my eyes darting nervously from one artifact to the next. And yet, despite my ineptitude, Elijah never once made me feel inadequate. Instead, he guided me with patience and kindness, his presence a steady anchor in a sea of uncertainty.

There were statues of ancient gods and goddesses, their faces weathered by centuries of exposure to the elements. There were vases and urns adorned with intricate designs, their origins shrouded in mystery. But it was one particular piece that caught my eye, a small figurine nestled in the crook of a tree. It was made of delicate porcelain, its features exquisitely crafted with painstaking detail. I felt a flicker of recognition stir within me as I gazed upon it, a memory hovering just out of reach.

"Do you recognize this piece, Penny?" Elijah asked, his voice gentle as he studied my expression.I nodded slowly, a furrow forming on my brow.

"Yes, I believe so," I replied tentatively. "It's the figurine of Demeter, the ancient Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility." Elijah's eyebrows lifted in surprise, a hint of admiration shining in his eyes.

"Impressive," he remarked, his voice tinged with approval. "Not many people know the name, let alone the story behind it." I smiled modestly, a warm glow of satisfaction blooming in my chest at his praise.

"I've always had a fascination with Greek mythology," I admitted, my voice tinged with excitement. "There's something so captivating about the tales of gods and goddesses, of heroes and villains." Elijah nodded, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.

"Indeed," he agreed, his gaze drifting back to the figurine. "The story behind this piece is quite fascinating. It is said to have been crafted by a master artisan during the height of the Athenian Empire, a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the era."

I listened intently as Elijah recounted the tale of the figurine, his words painting a vivid picture of a time long past. It was as if he had unlocked a door to another world, allowing me to step back in time and experience history in all its glory.

"How do you know all of this?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me. "I mean, this piece isn't exactly well-known, and yet you seem to know everything about it." Elijah smiled modestly, a hint of amusement in his eyes.

"I have a bit of a penchant for history," he admitted, his voice tinged with self-deprecation. "I find comfort in the stories of the past, in the forgotten artifacts that tell tales of bygone eras."

I couldn't help but smile at his confession, a warmth blooming in my chest at the thought of sharing this passion with him. It was a side of Elijah that I hadn't seen before.

As Elijah and I continued our leisurely stroll through the garden, we came across a small alcove tucked away beneath the shade of a sprawling oak tree. Nestled within the alcove was a pedestal upon which rested a singular artifact, its presence commanding our attention.

We both stopped in our tracks simultaneously, our eyes widening in recognition as we beheld the artifact before us. Without a word spoken between us, we both uttered the name of the piece at the exact same moment, a synchronicity that sent a shiver down my spine.

"The Forgotten Symphony," we said in unison. A soft smile graced Elijah's lips as he turned to me, a twinkle of curiosity shining in his eyes.

"It seems we share a fondness for this particular piece," he remarked, his voice tinged with intrigue. I nodded eagerly, a warmth spreading through my chest at the realization that we had a shared appreciation for the same piece of art.

"Yes, it's always been one of my favorites," I replied, my voice filled with excitement. "There's something so hauntingly beautiful about it, don't you think?" Elijah's gaze softened as he looked at me, a hint of vulnerability creeping into his expression. For a moment, he seemed lost in thought, as if lost in the depths of my eyes. And then, with a slight stutter, he began to explain the story behind the artifact.

"The Forgotten Symphony," he began, his voice trailing off as he struggled to find the right words. "It's... it's a piece that holds a special place in my heart." I watched him intently, my curiosity piqued by his sudden hesitation.

But before he could continue, I felt a surge of confidence wash over me, a desire to help him in any way that I could. And so, without missing a beat, I picked up where he had left off, recounting the tale of the Forgotten Symphony with passion and fervor.

"It's a piece that tells the story of lost love and longing," I explained, my voice steady and sure. "A symphony left unfinished, a melody that echoes through the ages, reminding us of the power of love and the pain of loss." As I spoke, I could feel Elijah's eyes on me, his gaze softening with each word that fell from my lips. And when I finally finished, there was a moment of silence between us.

And then, with a slight blush staining his cheeks, Elijah turned away, his mysterious demeanor returning in full force. But I could see the hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips, a silent acknowledgment of the bond that had formed between us in that fleeting moment.

"Now I understand why, your professor was so eager for us to meet."

⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆

#elijah mikaelson #elijah mikaelson x reader #elijah mikaelson x female reader #the originals #klaus mikaelson #vampire #dark fantasy #vampire romance #new orleans #daniel gillies #peanutbutterparker

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clementine-writes-things · 22 days

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The Girl In The Woods - V.Z

Summary: While carrying out a hit, Victor Zsasz finds y/n in the woods. Not wanting any witnesses, he confronts them. Short but sweet, possible part 2 if received well.

Content Warning: Blood, guns, death, knife, scary bald man, she/her pronouns, AFAB!reader.

Songs for Inspo:

Season Of The Witch - Lana Del Rey

Soldier, Poet, King - The Oh Hellos

Sarah - Alex G.

Tonight You Belong To Me - Patience & Prudence

Kids - Current Joys

Blondie - Current Joys

Read Below Cut

The gunshot rang throughout the woods, reverberating off of the trees. Birds flew off of trees, flapping their wings frantically as they retreated from the origin of the noise. Tucking his gun away and stretching out his back, Victor let out a long and exaggerated groan. Looking down at the body, he rolled his eyes, realizing he had to dispose of it. He sighed as he picked up the shovel he had brought with him. Observing the area, he tried to find a place that wouldn't be too difficult to dig. As he scanned around him, his eyes landed on a cottage just atop of the hill. If he hadn't looked closely, he would never have spotted it. Trees surrounded the entire area and the lush flora made it difficult to see. What looked to be a woman walked back inside after making eye contact with him.

"Shit. Don't go anywhere." He grunted, giving one last look to the body before going up the hill.

He tried to quicken his pace, not wanting the witness to escape. It would be hard to find them in the woods if they ran away. A slight breeze picked up as he made it to the top, pulling out his gun. Slowly but surely, he approached the front door. But, right before he was about to kick it open, he noticed that it wasn't even closed. Narrowing his eyes, he opened it up slowly, holding his gun up immediately after.

"Get on your knees." He ordered.

The woman turned around, the brown suspenders they wore flowed down into a short dress, a white blouse underneath it. Victor raised an eyebrow, confused at their calm demeanor. He felt a little uneasy.

"Can I help you with something?" She asked.

Victor furrowed his brows, unsure of how to respond. He let out a sigh, scoffing afterwards. The gun in his hand was gripped tightly, not moving away from the person in front of him.

"Lady, you do realize I'm pointing a loaded gun at you, right?" He asked.

"Yes, I do. But, I'm confused as to why." She replied.

Victor rolled his eyes.

"You saw me kill that man. Can't have any witnesses."

"I see. Well, does it look like I have anyone to tell about it?" She asked, gesturing to where she lived.

He didn't respond, keeping the gun pointed at her. Y/n sighed, turning away from him. Victor raised an eyebrow, watching what they did.

"Well, how about I finish making some soup and then you can decide whether you still want to kill me or not, ok? It's vegetable soup. It's all fresh from my garden." She suggested.

Victor laughed, putting his gun away.

"Listen, ma'am. Flattery isn't going to help you." He said, sitting down at the table.

"I can assure you I am not trying to flatter you, Mr. Zsasz." She replied.

His face was neutral.

"Yes, I know who you are. Just because I live out here doesn't mean I don't go to the city every once in a while."

"Then why didn't you run away?" He asked, genuinely curious at this point.

Y/n giggled softly, grabbing a ladle from a hook on the wall. With her other hand she grabbed a bowl. Filling it halfway with the soup, she grabbed a spoon from a drawer and put it in the bowl. She placed it on the table, sliding it over to him. He scoffed, shoving it away. Y/n rolled their eyes, grabbing another spoon. She used it to take a sip of the meal, as if to show him it wasn't poisoned. Rolling his eyes, he started to eat the soup.

"I didn't run away because I knew you wouldn't kill me." They responded simply.

"Oh, really? And what makes you think that?" He asked.

"Well, I'm still alive, aren't I?" She asked, a humble grin on her face.

Victor chuckled lightly, shaking his head. Taking another sip of his soup, he placed the spoon back in the bowl. Y/n, not feeling too hungry, walked to a window. Victor watched as they watered on of the plants with a small watering can.

"I suppose you aren't much of a threat. Oh, which reminds me..." He trailed.

Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his pocket knife. Swiftly, pulled up the sleeve of his shirt. Y/n glanced at the various scars, wincing as she watched him carve a tally mark onto the exposed skin of his forearm. Y/n sighed, grabbing a handkerchief from a pocket in their dress. Victor continued to eat as if nothing happened. However, he flinched when y/n touched his arm gently.

"May I?" She asked.

"Dude, do you have a death wish?" He asked, glaring at her.

Y/n ignored him, using her handkerchief to dab up the blood trickling down his arm. He rolled his eyes, eating his soup as she did that. Y/n laid the cloth over the wound, walking to a cabinet in their kitchen. Victor watched curiously as the rummaged through various glass bottles. Grabbing one, y/n walked back over to him and crouched down, rubbing a paste on the cut. Victor pulled out his gun quickly, placing the barrel directly against their forehead.

"It's just some aloe mixed with basil. The aloe will soothe your skin and the basil will help fight any infections. It's better to be safe than sorry. And, I'd rather not have you drip blood on my furniture." She said softly.

Victor hesitated, slowly putting his gun back in his holster. He looked down at her, casting a shadow over her body. He had no idea how to respond to this random act of kindness from a stranger he had intended to kill. Y/n stood up fully, smiling at him.

"Even hitmen need to take care of themselves, Mr. Zsasz. It would be a rather anti-climactic for a hitman to die of infection. Don't you think?"

Victor nodded softly.

"I suppose you're right." He answered curtly.

Y/n sighed softly, straightening out their dress. Victor watched as she put the bottle of paste back into the medicine cabinet they had. He honestly had no idea what to do anymore. This random girl was really throwing him off.

"Do you still want to kill me, Mr. Zsasz?" She asked.

"I'm not so sure anymore..." He trailed.

"Oh really? And why is that?" She asked, reminding him slightly of his words from earlier.

"Because you're kind of freaking me out." He stated.

Y/n giggled, walking towards the table again. Reaching down, she picked up his soup bowl, seeing that it was empty. She smiled, dimples showing on her cheeks. Victor couldn't help but keep his eyes on her at all times. Y/n placed the bowl in her sink, washing it quickly and drying it with a rag. She placed it back in the cabinet, turning back towards him.

"I'm glad you liked the soup. I was worried I didn't season it enough. Everything I cook with I gather out here. Well, with a few exceptions for trips to the city. For there are some things I cannot find out here." She explained.

Victor cleared his throat, looking towards the front door of her cottage. He rubbed the back of his neck with a gloved hand. Y/n noticed, nodding her head.

"You are free to go whenever, Mr. Zsasz. I'm not holding you captive. Are you holding me captive?" She asked.

"No. I'm not."

"Well, that's a relief. If you need a place to bury the body, there is a patch of sweet peas just a little ways left from here. I'd appreciate if you buried it there, they'll cover up the smell." She suggested, lighting a few candles around their cottage as the night got darker.

"Hm, alright..."

"I hope you make your way back to the city safely, Mr. Zsasz."

"Thank you, Ms...?" He asked.

"Y/n."

"Y/n, ok then. Um, maybe I'll come by for another bowl of soup sometime soon."

"Well, you know where to find me."

#writers #fanfic writer #writers of tumblr #fanfic #gotham #dc universe #victor zsasz #victor zsasz x reader

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maddie-grove · 25 days

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The Top Twenty Books I Read in 2023

Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell (1949): I thought somebody would make me read this book in school, but no one ever did. Now that I've read it, let me just say...mark me down as horny and scared! No, I will not explain what I mean by that.

Prairie Fires by Caroline Fraser (2017): In this examination of Laura Ingalls Wilder's life and work, Fraser skillfully weaves a portrait of two complicated women (Wilder and her daughter/editor Rose Wilder Lane) with an overview of large swathes of American history. The examination of how Wilder and Lane adapted Wilder's life experiences into autobiographical fiction and why they made those choices is particularly interesting.

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver (2022): This is a retelling of David Copperfield by Charles Dickens, transplanted to Appalachia in the 1990s-2000s. Kingsolver retains the warmth and the pathos of the original, and the narrative voice is great.

Song of the Magdalene by Donna Jo Napoli (1996): Miriam, a Jewish girl in first-century Magdala, finds her life altered by unexplained seizures, which she must keep secret, and a first love that ends in tragedy. Napoli often brings it when it comes to thoughtful portrayals of disability and unexpectedly weird sensuality, and this novel is one of her best.

My Sweet Audrina by V.C. Andrews (1982): Audrina Adare, a young girl with severe memory problems, lives in an isolated Virginia mansion with her domineering father and various deranged female relatives...and it gets worse. This is V.C. Andrews at her most deliciously perverse and lurid, and I was definitely rooting for Audrina to close the portal.

I Never Asked You to Understand Me by Barthe DeClements (1986): Faced with her mother's terminal cancer diagnosis and the unhelpfulness of most adults in her life, fifteen-year-old Didi ends up at an alternative school for truancy and finds a friend in Stacy, a would-be runaway whose home life is even more dire. This 1980s YA problem novel always gets me, thanks to the author's gentle, empathetic treatment of her messy teenage characters.

Black Swan Green by David Mitchell (2006): Jasons, a thirteen-year-old boy in early-1980s Worchestershire, copes with brutal grade-school politics, a tense home life, various small losses of innocence, and the odd supernatural event over the span of a year. My favorite stretch of the novel was where half a dozen scary/weird/sexually confusing things happen in the course of Jason taking one meandering walk through the countryside.

Cat's Cradle by Kurt Vonnegut (1963): I'd been intending to read a Kurt Vonnegut novel since he died in 2007, so don't say I never follow through on anything. This book is extraordinarily fun and absurd, which just enhances the horror of the eventual climax.

The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton (1905): Cash-strapped socialite Lily Bart struggles in turn-of-the-century New York society, mainly because she can neither fully commit to gold-digging nor figure out a viable alternative. Her crumbling state, both social and psychological, is horrifying yet fascinating to witness.

The Fell by Sarah Moss (2021): In November 2020, English waitress and single mother Kate breaks quarantine to take a walk through the countryside, with disastrous results. This short novel is lyrical, compassionate, and impressively stressful.

Old Babes in the Woods by Margaret Atwood (2023): This short story collection is split between vignettes featuring elderly couple Nell and Tig, and several standalones that vary wildly in tone and form. All are well-written, but I generally enjoyed the standalones best, especially the poignant "My Evil Mother," the chilling "Freeforall," and the thought-provoking "Metempsychosis."

Beware the Woman by Megan Abbott (2023): Pregnant Jacy goes with her new husband to visit his widowed father in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, but a pleasant vacation soon turns into a paranoid nightmare. Abbott's lush descriptions--kind of sexy and kind of gross, as always--enhance a truly disturbing thriller.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925): This is another book I assumed someone would make me read in school, but I think all my teachers and professors were like "yeah, yeah, The Great Gatsby, we all know what that is." What you don't get from the Baz Luhrmann movie and pop-cultural osmosis, though, is the exquisite secondhand embarrassment of watching Gatsby pursue a married woman who is actually more into her husband, or just how fucking bizarre that husband is.

How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix (2023): Single mother Louise is pulled from San Francisco to her hometown of Charleston by the sudden death of her parents and has to coordinate funeral arrangements with her ne'er-do-well brother Mark...and it gets worse. This isn't the best or the scariest Grady Hendrix novel, but the sibling relationship is compelling and it features the incomparable Pupkin. I love that fucked-up lil hand-puppet.

Seventeen and In-Between by Barthe Declements (1984): High-school senior Elsie Edwards is beautiful, brilliant, and talented, but she's still plagued by the lingering trauma of childhood bullying, her terrible parents, and her complicated feelings for her long-term boyfriend (slightly older and jonesing to Go All the Way) and her male best friend (also trying to figure things out, albeit through working in the lumber industry in Forks, Washington). The Elsie Edwards trilogy is great overall, and Elsie's struggle to figure out how to move beyond her unhappy past is especially moving.

Don't Look and It Won't Hurt by Richard Peck (1972): Carol, the sixteen-year-old middle daughter of a poor divorced waitress, gets a front seat to her older sister's disastrous relationship with a scumbag, experiences her own first romance, and sorts through her feelings about her strained family and stultifying small prairie town. This is a sweet, understated early YA novel that offers a look into the last few years before Roe v. Wade.

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy (2022): In this memoir, McCurdy recounts her relationship with her controlling, abusive late mother and her dispiriting time as a child star on Nickelodeon. I really enjoyed her writing style--clear, conversational, and bracingly pissed off--and she offers some good insight into the acting industry.

Just Like You by Nick Hornby (2020): Joseph, a twentysomething black working-class Londoner balancing his musical aspirations with babysitting gigs and a job at a butcher's shop, stars a romance with Lucy, a fortysomething upper-middle-class white single mom and schoolteacher. This is a pleasant, easygoing love story with some insightful commentary on how ordinary people form political opinions.

The Fourth Grade Wizards by Barthe DeClements (1988): Fourth grader Marianne is distracted in class and adrift at home after her mother's sudden death, but she has a good friend in Jack, who struggles in class because he's hyperactive. You might ask why this list is so dominated by one 1980s middle-grade/YA author, and the answer is that I love her. Also, I did not read all that many new-to-me books last year.

How Do You Lose Those Ninth Grade Blues? by Barthe DeClements (1983): Elsie Edwards, no longer the emotionally battered class pariah she was in Nothing's Fair in Fifth Grade but not yet the maturing young woman she'll become in Seventeen and In-Between, starts high school with everything going for her...except her horribly low self-esteem and her still-terrible home life. This is definitely the slightest installment of the trilogy, but it still makes an impact.

#reading #books

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pancakesmythie · 6 months

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I finally got around to making a page about fusärk lore (that's what my fursona/sporesona is). This took way too long to make but here it is I guess.

The text reads...

Fusärk Documentation

Fusärks have a reptile-like snout, horse ears, tusks, antennas, fluffy manes, bird wings, opposable front paws and canine back legs with a long fluffed dino tail. They usually have shades of yellow, brown & grey fur but some of the unusual variations can be, light yellow/cream, white, dark purple and dark blues. Their eyes are most commonly blue, green, yellow and purple. Rarer variations are red/pink, silver and orange.

Fusärks originated from the planet Verdantis, a lush planet covered in different creatures. They can regulate their body temperature in most climates with their antennas, despite having so much fur. They are also omnivorous but most tend to enjoy fruits and greens over fish and meats, their tusks help them bite into large, tough fruits and vegetables. They are also fairly swift fliers but they can tire quickly from flight.

Civilizations of fusärks and their captains usually favor non-violent means of doing things, this is also why it's looked down upon to eat lots of meat. They are usually friendly when visiting an alien planet and towards alien visitors. They can be unfriendly towards other fusärks who have failed to do so.

Fusärks are an intelligent spacefaring species that tend to favor a non-violent approach to most situations.

Their fur tends to be some shades of yellow, brown & grey and their mouths blue and or purple. There are rarely variations from this.

They mainly eat things made from fish and fruit, some do occasionally enjoy cooked meats but it's looked down upon to eat a lot of meat.

The planet Verdantis is home to the fusärk population but is also home to many other wild, tropical creatures.

#spore #spore creature #spore lore #lore #furry #furry lore #this took too long #hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh #stinky lore anyways #doodoo lore #nothing new here #just keep scrolling

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avidbeader · 2 years

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Okay, so, about “The Sandman”...

It’s amazing.They pulled off a really elegant adaptation, based on the fact that I cannot point to either the comics or the series and say one was better than the other. Plots were tightened up. Characters got shifted here and there. They did the wise thing, in my opinion, and removed just about every reference to the DC superheroes other than a pair of name-checks. By allowing characters to be played by actors regardless of race or gender, they ended up with a cast that did a stellar job. Where there was classic bloody gore/horror, they surrounded it with intense psychological horror so that even those of us who are the type to look away from the screen got almost the full impact. And they took full advantage of the medium to produce incredibly rich and lush visuals and bring iconic pages in the comics to life.

As I said last night, if you feared what a live-action version would do to a story you treasure, don’t be afraid. And if you’re hesitant to watch a series without having read the source material, don’t hesitate. This feels like the once-in-a-generation event where the adaptation not only lives up to the original, but can stand beside it as an equal.

Spoilery thoughts under the cut for both the series and the comics.

I am still really astonished at just how deft an adaptation the series it. Every time I went, “Wait a minute, I don’t like this change,” by the end of that episode or the next I was sold. For example, I was missing Miranda, Rose’s mother, at the beginning of Episode 7, as the buffer between Rose and Unity and also because we were shown the circumstances of their separation from Jed and not just told. But when Gault took on Miranda’s appearance and then railed against Dream because she didn’t want to be a nightmare anymore, it made perfect sense.

And Gault herself was a revelation. In the comics we have a team called Brute and Glob, a rather dumb pair of nightmares, trying to make their own little Dreaming in Jed’s mind. (And if I remember correctly, they’re a reference to one of DC’s older horror comic titles.) They are the ones who capture Hector Hall at his death and bring Lyta to live with him in their fledgling kingdom, and Hector is the “Sandman” of Jed’s dream world. It works in the comics because the text and art pay homage to an early 20th-century comic strip called “Little Nemo”. But it would have been extremely hard to do that on screen without losing the viewers, so they made Jed the star of his dreams instead and gave him all the hokey superhero trappings. And that works because Jed is a kid, with a kid’s imagination. But it gets even better when we see that Gault’s motivations weren’t about power, but about protecting Jed from his abusers because she had changed and wanted to be free of the limitations of her origins. It hit me a little later--it’s such an elegant metaphor for those who are constricted by society because of their race or sexuality, constantly fighting the huge obstacles wanting to prevent such people from any kind of metamorphosis (I mean, Dream gave her butterfly wings when he recreated her as she wanted to be). Which leads me to the one giant tonal shift that has me curious about future seasons. Dream in the comics is almost completely without humor. He is ultra-serious about his duties and responsibilities and way too proud, unwilling to change as the aeons go by. And his inability to change leads him to his end in a classic literary tragedy - even though he knows change will be necessary, he resists and even plans for his demise by setting up for the possibility with Lyta’s child as his successor. But it’s really hard to get a TV series off the ground when your leading man is not just the aloof emo archetype but stoic and stern to the point of needing to be introduced as a prisoner to garner sympathy for him. My husband and I were genuinely surprised in the first episode when Dream cried over Jessamy’s death, because it signaled a depth of caring that we don’t see until much later in the comics. But the TV Dream does show emotion, albeit mostly quietly and with a lot of amazing face acting by Tom Sturridge, does appreciate humor and irony, and at the end of this season does seem to see the need for change.

So now I’m very curious as to how they will herd Dream to his death. Will there be a back-and-forth because Dream can’t change enough? Or will the undertone about the universe having rules mean that Dream’s arc will be less about tragic choices and more about circumstances, with him having to accept the consequences of spilling family blood when he gives Orpheus the coup?

(Of course this is assuming that Netflix allows the series to be completed instead of cutting it off after 2-3 seasons. Yes, I’m still bitter about Sense8.)

TL;DR - I loved it, I think Neil Gaiman has taken full advantage of his previous TV experiences to find what works and find who will work best with him, and I will re-watch this series many times and keep watching any future seasons.

#the sandman #sandman spoilers #sandman comics #sandman series

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iamborsh · 3 months

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ᴅᴇᴀᴅ ʙᴜᴛᴛᴇʀꜰʟɪᴇs William Afton/OC

Tags: au, modelling, fashion industry, coquette!original character, violence, age gap.

ʙᴇᴀᴜᴛʏ ʀᴇǫᴜɪʀᴇs sᴀᴄʀɪꜰɪᴄᴇ

Jennifer Christie is a 21-year-old girl. Beautiful, narcissistic. She grew up in a family of quite wealthy businessmen who gave their beloved daughter anything she wanted. Jenny grew up in luxury: dresses, bags, jewelry - for her these are just little things. Three years ago, she suddenly got wish to become a model, which her parents, of course, obediently fulfilled. Now Mrs. Christie is a popular model. Many agencies of that time would have liked to sign a contract with her, but the most of them were sent to hell by generous Jenny.

April 14, 1996, New York.

"That's not it! And this too!" with these words, the girl was sorting through her closet, which was literally bursting with lots of clothes from different designers. She had a contract signing with one of the agencies today. Of course, it didn't work out without persuasion, but Jenny decided to feel sorry for her manager and agreed.

This meeting means nothing to her, but you always have to look presentable.

Suddenly, the girl went to her tape recorder, covered with pink rhinestones. It was the first time Jenny had worked tirelessly, but the result was worth it. It would be a shame for a girl to have an ordinary gray tape recorder! She's not some kind of beggar.

Taking a CD of a song by a fairly popular band at that time, the room was filled with beautiful female voices.

Oh, say you'll be there ~ ♪

Jenny headed for the closet, but now moving to the beat of the vibing music.

I'm giving you everything ~ ♪

Jenny took three different dresses and threw them on the bed, they looked the best. And even though Jennifer still has a bunch of dresses, she still chose these ones.

All that joy can bring ~ ♪

Jenny danced around the room, darting past the mirror every now and then. It reflected the unearthly beauty of an African-American girl. Beautiful skin, gorgeous and lush curls, brown eyes, a few freckles, plump lips smeared with expensive glitter, which she probably bought abroad. She was wearing a white silk robe made to order, it fit her perfectly, and the image was complemented by yellow fluffy slippers.

This I swear, ow ~ ♪

The last line of the verse of the song sounded and the home phone rang.

"Oh, who is it now?" she went to the pink home phone. Her daddy bought it for her in Paris. It looked cute, elegant, a kind of curiosity that surprised everyone who came to visit Jennifer.

Picking up the phone, the girl held it to her ear.

"Excuse me, Miss Christie, they want to order an adver-" the man didn't finish his sentence.

"I'm not interested in it! How many times have I told you that I don't take ads? Or should I pay you a doctor to check your hearing?" the girl answered rudely. After all, who's he to be polite to him?

It was Jenny's manager, a man of 37 years of French descent, who helped her sign contracts. Well, although Miss Christie always decides for herself, and Mr. Martin is only needed for show.

The girl was just about to hang up when she suddenly remembered.

"Oh, yeah, you're picking me up today! I hope you don't have any problems with your memory and you haven't forgotten about my contract with Mr. Afton's modeling agency!" her voice sounded arrogant.

"Of course, of course, madam, is there something else?" Martin asked meekly in his French accent.

With a grunt, she put the phone back down. While they were talking, the song had already ended. Yeah, her mood to listen to music was gone now.

Her gaze fell on the bed, there were 3 dresses that Jennifer had selected.

Green with a circle, pale pink with lace bell sleeves and yellow with a black strap.

The girl threw away two dresses, namely a green and a yellow one. Yes, she was definitely in the mood to wear pink today.

Pink louboutins, a lace dress, a bow in her hair and an elegant handbag were perfectly combined. Soft-pink lipstick accentuated the beauty of her lips, and blush on her beautiful cheeks.

The girl twirled next to the mirror.

"Not bad, it could have been better. I'll have to buy more clothes, otherwise these are already… Too old and not fashionable." the girl said petulantly.

Her gaze fell on the clock on a white bedside table next to a huge mirror. The time was 2 p.m., 15 minutes.

"Already?" she exclaimed with a gasp, of course, Jenny, you like to sleep until lunch, and then preen up for three hours. "Has this idiot arrived yet?" the girl asked herself with a note of disgust.

Looking out the window of her house, she saw Martin's black car approaching. He must have remembered, apparently, his senility hadn't begun yet.

The girl left her room, went down to the 1st floor and went out onto the porch.

The view was beautiful. There was a wonderful garden near Jenny's house, where white roses grew, a variety of which was personally brought by Jennifer's mother from Holland.

"Mello, Madame Christie." Martin bowed to the girl as she walked impressively to the car.

Glancing at her manager, she extended her hand to him, turning away and wrinkling her nose. This is just an element of etiquette, nothing more. Martin kissed the girl's hand, on the fingers of which was a mother-of-pearl with a gleam of white and pink, a neat manicure. The girl pulled her hand away and got into the car.

"You look great today!" the manager tried to make a compliment.

"I know." Jenny replied indifferently, turning her gaze away from the window.

It was quite bright outside, the birds were singing, the flowers were blooming. Jenny currently lived in a country house located near New York, and the road to the agency building took a little longer than if Jenny lived in an apartment.

The model turned towards Martin. He was not a particularly tall man with black hair, gray streaks flashed here and there, he wore round glasses, and also some kind of suit. He looked very ridiculous, as Jennifer herself thought.

"We arrived, madam." Martin said and got out of the car, walked around her and, like a true gentleman, opened the door for the girl and helped her get up.

The following picture appeared before them: a 4-storey light purple building with large windows.

"Not bad." having assessed the building, the girl concluded. "Even better than many similar buildings."

She'll probably never be happy with anything.

"Martin, follow me!" the girl commanded.

Martin really looked funny next to Mrs. Christie. Jennifer's elegant, feminine and graceful gait made passers-by turn around, while Martin walked unsteadily, trying to keep up with his "madame".

Martin was still able to overtake the girl and held the door for her. She didn't even say "thank you." For what?

The building inside also looked beautiful. Models and designers walked around the floor, carried plastic mannequins as makeup artists ran around. Jenny chuckled, looking at this, what a funny sight.

"Miss Christie?" a girl in a shirt and black trousers, standing behind the reception desk, addressed Jennifer and Martin.

The girl looked at the receptionist. Simple one, what to say.

"Well, yeah, me." the model replied with a haughty look.

"You must be at Mr. Afton's, come on, I'll take you there." with these words, the girl came out from behind the counter and headed for the 2nd floor. Jennifer followed her.

The receptionist looked somehow at home. Wrinkled shirt, oversize trousers, sloppy bun.

Picking up the rabble on the ad, Jenny thought with disgust. "If you work in a modeling agency, then at least look presentable."

"We're here, Mr. Afton is already waiting for you." the girl ran back.

The door was brown, and there was a sign saying "W. Afton."

"Martin, you're waiting for me downstairs." not waiting for an answer, Jenny entered without knocking on the door.

A fairly clean and well-maintained office appeared to her eyes. It contained a pair of mannequins, different from those that were carried around the 1st floor, a desk, a fluffy rug, like Jennifer's in the room, two sofas and a tea table in front of the desk. Everything was done in black and purple style.

"Hello, Mrs. Christie." a man's voice suddenly addressed her.

The girl turned around and was a little surprised. A rather pleasant-looking man of about 35 years old was sitting at the table. Long black hair, braided in a small ponytail, with a purple sheen in the light, silver eyes that Jennifer had never seen before. The man was wearing a purple shirt with a pin with the man's name on it: "William." Blue jeans with a yellow fringe at the bottom. He was wearing an expensive watch with a yellow strap at that time. As well as patent black shoes matching William's hair color.

If it had been worn on any other, then the girl would have said that he looked like a clown, but not in this case. Everything was so combined with each other that no image of any other fashion designer could compare with this. He was simply charming, it was the first time that Jenny fell in love with another person's clothes.

"Yeah, hello." no matter how surprised she was, confidence shouldn't be lost in any case.

"Come in, sit down, would you like some tea?" Mr. Afton kindly suggested, he also seems to be british, oh, how fascinating his voice sounds, just a delight to her ears.

"No, thanks." the girl looked around. The office was, of course, beautiful, but quite ordinary, except for one detail. Mannequins. They looked like real people. They werent just white, but all sorts of different colors. Both dark and beige, even with the effect of vitiligo disease. It's like they're made of real skin.

"So you like them?" the fashion designer suddenly asked.

The girl shuddered:

"Yes, yes… They're very, very beautiful." the girl answered uncertainly, this is the first time it's happening with her.

"I make them myself. Handmade, you can touch them." William said genially with a smile on his face.

The girl got up and walked over to one of the mannequins. She touched it lightly with the pads of her fingers. For real, like a real… Skin.

"I make them out of… Animal's skin. By coloring it in the desired color." why did he stumble on the word "animal's"? Oh, well, okay, it happens.

"It's impressive." she was still running her fingers over the mannequin. "What kind of animals do you use?"

Mr. Afton paused and then grinned hysterically.

"I make them from… Pig's one". his answer sounded as strange and uncertain as possible. As if Jenny had asked something she didn't need to. It's like she's asking too many questions. "Okay, let's move on to the contract." the man changed the topic.

The girl sat down on the sofa while William handed her a contract with a modeling agency. After reading it carefully, the girl picked up a pen and left her neat signature in a beautiful handwriting, and then handed the document back into the hands of the man.

He smiled.

"It's a pleasure doing business with you, I'll see you tomorrow." William said, returning to his desk.

The girl went out the door of the office. Well, tomorrow is her first day working for Mr. William's agency.

***

The dressing room was teeming with stylists, make-up artists and other staff. It was noisy. And Jennifer didn't really like noise, but she sat quiet as she didn't want to spoil her own reputation.

Instead, she sprawled impressively on an armchair while one of the makeup artists weightlessly applied powder to the already delicate skin of the model.

"Miss Christie, do you need anything?" the receptionist, whom Jenny and Martin saw yesterday, turned to the girl behind the chair.

"Yes, coffee." it was normal for her not to say "please", does she even knows about this word existence?

"Mrs. Christie, we're done." spoke the young makeup artist.

She, in turn, began to look at herself in the mirror….Yeah, could have been better. She'd do better one at home.

"It's terrible, but what can we do, you'll learn someday." Jenny criticized, taking her coffee from the receptionist's hands. Probably the makeup artist was hurt by her words.

The girl turned towards the rest of the room. Several of the same girls were sitting and waiting for them to be made up. Makeup artists swirled around them, applying powder, blush, foundation and other cosmetics.

The walls were painted a pleasant white color, wooden tables with lots of cosmetics on them, as well as upholstered chairs, on one of which Jennifer was sitting.

Suddenly, the main fashion designer, namely Afton, entered the room. He looked around the room and when he bumped into Jenny, he smiled.

Without taking his eyes off her, he said:

"The models can meanwhile prepare for the trial show, and I'll have to ask Mrs. Christie to come with me." Mr. Afton announced, nodding his head as if to indicate that she needed to follow him.

When Jennifer entered the office, she saw the same mannequins with different dresses, but one of them caught her eye. It was a beautiful puffy black and white dress… It was covered with artificial black butterflies, complementing the look. On the mannequin's head was a headband with the same medium-sized butterfly. The shoes were high-heeled.

"This is the dress that you'll wear for your first show at our agency." William purred contentedly, looking at his creation. "What do you think?"

The girl came closer. In addition to butterflies, the dress was decorated with thousands of small rhinestones.

"It's wonderful!" the model exclaimed. "you're really a true artist."

William grinned contentedly. He was flattered by Jennifer's attitude, although he's well aware of her character. He knows more about her than she would have guessed.

"How do you like it here?" William asked, sitting down at his desk and lighting a cigarette. "Do you like everything?"

"Well… Its much better here than in other agencies, except that…" Jenny walked over to the mirror in the study. "Though make-up artists should learn more." she tried to say it as politely as possible, but for some reason she wanted to impress William. This was the first time she acted that way, usually Jenny torn up contracts with other agencies with ease, without fear that it would change her life. But then something beckoned to stay here longer.

William looked at the model. He chuckled and said:

"I think I'll agree." he also needed to make a good impression on Jennifer, at least in some ways they are similar. "Is that all?"

No. Noise, annoying staff, disgusting coffee, according to the model's opinion and this is only part of it.

"Yes, everything else is fine." making innocent eyes, the girl said. "Can I go now? I need to get ready."

Letting the smoke out of his mouth, William nodded and the girl headed for the door.

Returning to the studio, she saw defiling girls walking along the catwalk, where the show will soon be held. They did well, of course, but not like Jenny. Its not surprising that she was made the main star at this show.

"Madame Christie!" the main director ran up to the girl. "You're just in time, you're going to be on stage now, go to backstage."

"First, explain they should do." the girl said irritably. "And what about me? Improvisation?"

"Oh, yeah, of course. So, look." the director, whose name is most likely George, began to actively gesticulate with his hands. "You go out in the middle of the stage, scroll through, and then all the model girls come out and together you do the crown pose. Is that clear?"

What an idiotic plan, but there's nothing to do.

The girl went on stage and began to act according to the director's plan with a model gait. All the girl's jaws dropped. Of course, anyone could envy such a figure, gait and grace.

The girl stopped and made a turn at the edge of the podium. Then she turned around and walked towards the other models who had already went out. A wave of the hands and the girls depicted a large crown. It was a pretty spectacular end to the show. Although, its rather strange that Jenny, as the main model of the show, was given very little time.

"Belissimo! Belissimo!" the director standing by the stage clapped. "Girls, you're great, everyone did their best, and you… Mrs. Jenny, especially beautiful." this man also had an accent, but it was Italian. Although, it was already obvious by his mustache that he's not exactly an American.

For the sake of decency, Jenny smiled and went to the dressing room.

***

Pretty boring and terribly long day. Preparing for the show was a tedious task, which didn't bring any pleasure.

After coming home and changing her clothes, Jennifer flopped down on the soft bed. She had a feeling that something bad was going to happen, but what? Nonsense. What could possibly happen in an ordinary modeling agency? Especially when there is such a handsome and kind chief fashion designer.

The girl was lying in her soft lace robe, which clung so pleasantly to her skin. Her bed was large, soft and comfortable. Silk pillows and blankets, there are even bedside curtains to shut out the whole world.

Suddenly, Jennifer's hand came across something fluffy and soft. Picking it up, the girl saw her old bunny Oliver from childhood, which her grandmother gave her. It was a white hare with a red tie. There were patches and scuffs in some places. It was strange that Jenny didn't throw it away, because it was surely worn and battered.

Memories from childhood flashed through her head.

***

October 27, 1985.

A little girl with thick afro-curls quietly entered the room and locked it. She looked to be 11 years old.

She walked lightly to the bed and climbed on it. There were various toys, dolls and much more on the bed, which all the girls dreamed of in childhood. But she picked up a white rabbit. Oliver. Her best friend.

"My parents have left again…" the girl began. "But they promised to play with me…"

Little Jenny always told her best friend everything. She trusted it like no one else.

"But I'm sure they'll come soon, right?" the girl assured herself with a note of sad hope. "Isn't that right, Oliver?… My parents love me, don't they?" tears flowed from her eyes, the little girl's face turned red and she hugged the toy to herself. "They love me! They need me, I'm their daughter!"

***

The girl didn't even notice how teary her eyes were. Did her parents need her? Or were they just buying her off? Yes, she has a luxurious life, but Jenny has never known what true parental love is.

While all the children were playing football with their parents and going on picnics, Jenny was sitting at home at that time and sadly drawing a portrait of her family. She wanted to make sure that her parents loved and cared for her. But instead, they're always at meetings, conferences or whatever.

And only Oliver listened to the girl's tears all these years.

"Okay, I'm crying because of a bullshit." with these words, the girl wiped her tears and put the toy back in its place.

After a while, the girl fell asleep.

***

Days, weeks, and then a month passed. Day turned to night, nothing changed. The day of the show was approaching. Jenny was 100% ready.

And here it is, the long-awaited x-day. Jenny had heard that the entire elite of the modeling business would gather for the show. Someone even said that some of them came only because of Jenny.

And the model itself was already wearing that black and white puffy dress. A headband and black heels complemented the look. It suited the model's face, as if it had been made for her specially. A light make-up to match the color of the dress sparkled on her face.

William walked around the dressing room and checked how the work was going. Of course, it is important for his agency not to screw up and meet the expectations of critics.

The models came out one after another. Cameras clicked and the audience applauded enthusiastically. The journalists were doing some kind of report and were trying to interview William, who was also standing in the hall and watching everything that was happening.

George was running around and saying something to the models who hadn't come out yet. Most likely, he was giving them some advice.

And Jenny was still sitting in the same chair and watching the painting. It's been a month since Jenny got a job at Mr. Afton's modeling agency. And every day she felt more and more uncomfortable around William. If before the silver eyes radiated calmness and kindness, now there is nothing but some kind of intimidation. His character hadn't changed, but his eyes spoke more.

A man's voice pulled out of his thoughts, which most likely belonged to William:

"You ready?" he put his hand on her shoulder, as if feeling her skin, or was it just her imagination? "Now it's your turn, you remember what you have to do?"

Jennifer nodded and headed towards the podium. George was standing very close to them, writing something down in his notebook.

"Madame Christie!" he turned to the girl. "Good luck."

Jenny nodded and went on stage. Hundreds or even thousands of cameras suddenly blinded her, some people clapped. Despite this, the girl didn't even blinked an eye and confidently walked to the middle of the podium. Jennifer's eyes darted. Maybe her parents came after all? The crowd of people was the same and almost merged, but the girl would have recognized her parents out of a thousand. They aren't there, however, it was no longer surprising.

The girl turned around and walked over to the other models who had already run up. They all looked different: orange, blue, light blue, pink dresses perfectly matched the black accessories on the them. Each of them looked beautiful in their own way. But tonight, the star of the night is Jennifer. But she also has every chance to go out today.

A couple of movements and the girls depicted a crown, which, as it turned out, was the symbol of the agency.

Enthusiastic applause, blinding the cameras again. The show was a success.

***

"Mrs. Jennifer, Mrs. Jennifer!" as soon as the girl went backstage, George addressed her. "You have met all our expectations! It was excellent." he spoke enthusiastically, even stammering a little.

"Thank you…" Jenny replied dejectedly, she wanted to rest.

"Mrs. Jennifer, can I talk to you for a second?" Mr. Afton appeared from behind.

Jenny and William moved away from the dressing room.

"Your performance was really amazing, I'm glad that you're working with us." for the first time, a compliment made Jenny blush, although the silver eyes were still frightening, but William's speeches were so pleasant… "How about dinner together?" that's… Is he asking her out on a date?

Jenny had always thought that William was married, as it was rather strange that such a handsome and promising man hadnt yet been taken away.

The girl had no plans for the evening, so:

"Yes, sure." the girl replied with a smile.

"Then you can go home, because I still need to talk to other fashion designers." it's a common thing after screenings at some agency. This was in the girl's favor as she would be able to dress the way she wanted. After all, the dress that William himself sewed was beautiful and elegant, but still belonged to the agency and was a little uncomfortable. "I'll pick you up at 8."

The girl returned to the dressing room to change clothes, and then go home with Martin. Her heart was beating in anticipation. Jenny liked William's attention. Now his eyes radiated not madness, but kindness.

"Martin, follow me!" Jenny called the man over and headed to the car. Martin and Jenny got into it and quickly drove to the girl's house.

And at the same time, a fashion designer was watching the whole picture, smoking next to the agency building. He knew that Jenny was an arrogant and spoiled girl who was easily manipulated, so he bravely took advantage of this without remorse, because beauty requires sacrifices, which William would do without doubt.

***

Jenny got out of the car and slammed the door. The white country house was illuminated by the streetlights and garlands that Jenny had hung on the house to make it look more cozy.

Martin's car drove off and Jenny headed home. Going into her room, the girl again chose what to wear. This is not just an interview, this is a date with Mr. Afton himself. Something about him attracted the girl so much, although she herself didnt realize that she was being controlled like a doll.

"Well, well…" Jenny was looking through the wardrobe, trying to find something that would suit her today. The choice fell on a white and airy dress. It was light, weightless. Jenny also wore lace stockings and small white heels.

It is worth admitting that everything goes for Jenny, even if she'd wear in a cellophane bag, she'll look breathtaking.

It was close to 8 p.m, the time when William would pick up Jennifer.

When the girl was putting on makeup, she heard the sounds of a car approaching. It was William, he stopped near the girl's house and waited for her.

Taking everything she needed, the model ran out of the house.

"Hello, Mr. Afton." the girl curtsied gracefully.

William looked at the girl and smiled.

"You look beautiful." Afton said with a wink. The compliment made her ears and cheeks burn. The girl gets hundreds compliments a day, but none of them caused such strong emotions.

Afton opened the car door and invited the girl. Jenny nodded "thanks" and got into the first seat. Afton walked around the car and got into the driver's seat.

The most amazing thing is that Afton, it turns out, lived very close to Jenny's house. A couple of minutes and they were there.

It was a 2-storey and quite large house. There were children's swings and toys in the yard. After all, he has children. The walls of the house were painted a shade of purple. Guess it's his favourite color.

Afton gently took the girl's arm and they went into the house.

The house looked even better inside. Beautiful, snow-white wallpaper, white wooden floor. The walls were hung with various beautiful sketches as there were also children's drawings.

Afton invited the girl into the kitchen. It was made in a rather fashionable style of that time called Baroque. No wonder, because Mr. Afton is still a fashion designer, after all. Everything was clean and tidy, all the appliances were in their places.

Jennifer sat down at the table and watched Mr. Afton's actions.

"What do you want for dinner tonight? This evening I'm your chef." William asked jokingly and with a touch of coquetry. The girl was embarrassed again.

"Since you are the chef today, I trust you." she put her elbow on the back of the chair.

"Whatever you say, Madame Christie." turning around, his smile changed to an annoyed face. He didn't like his own cheap show, which he himself put on. "Would you like some champagne?"

Jennifer doesn't drink, but since such an occasion…

"Yes, sure!"

Afton went to the refrigerator and took out a bottle of expensive champagne. It finally came in handy.

"I'll pour it." he wouldn't let the girl pour it herself, because he only needs to add a pinch of magic powder to carry out his plan. Opening the lid of the bottle and taking out a glass, he began to slowly fill the glass. After making sure Jennifer wasn't looking, he took a small bag out of his pocket and just wanted to pour it…

"You have children?" the girl suddenly asked, startling William. He turned to her and took a deep breath.

"Oh, yes, i do… Michael, Elizabeth and Evan." Afton exhaled, looking at the portrait that Jenny had apparently noticed.

"And where is your wife?"

You know, sweetie, you're asking too many unnecessary questions that won't help you in any way.

"She left me with 3 kids." William was able to lie by looking into the eyes. Surely he wouldn't say that his wife had died a long time ago? It'll scare our little Jennifer away.

Jennifer began to feel sorry for William in her mind. How can you get away from such a smart, handsome and successful man? Even left him with three kids. She didn't know yet who she considered "kind."

While the girl was thinking, William managed to add the contents of the little bag to her glass. The powder quickly dissolved into the liquid.

The man turned to the girl and gave her the glass. Then he poured himself a drink. Slowly sipping the contents of his glass, he watched the girl. She drank it all quickly.

"It's too strong for champagne." the girl was getting sick.

"When you drink it for the first time, it happens, especially in one gulp." the man assured the girl.

The girl was dizzy and she was slowly losing consciousness. A minute later, she fell asleep.

William grinned at his new victim with his silver eyes.

***

Pain shooting through her whole body. The pain that made her want to scream, but something prevented from doing so. All the muscles were stiff and the girl couldn't move a single limb. Her vision slowly returned. The bright light of the lamp began to fill her eyes, making Jenny squint.

It was cold and only now Jennifer realized that she wasn't only tied up, but also almost naked.

"Are you awake yet?" a familiar voice, of course, it's William.

What the hell is going on here? Where is she? Why is she tied up? Little Jenny tried to say something, but only a mumble came out of her mouth, her mouth was taped.

"Are you trying to say something?" William spoke ironically. "Don't bother yourself, you can't, no one will hear you."

Jenny still didn't understand what was going on, but William, as if reading her mind, answered her question himself.

"You must be thinking what's going on, right? Let me explain."

William walked over to the table and took a syringe, pulling some substance into it.

"You remember the mannequins from my office, so that's it. You will become one of them!" Afton said enthusiastically. "You've always dreamed of beauty and fame, right? Then you must know the phrase: beauty requires sacrifice. I make these sacrifices, making people even more beautiful!"

Has Afton gone crazy? What he's talking about?

The girl remembered those mannequins… For real, are they all made of human skin? The girl had a gagging urge. She started kicking and trying to get out. No, she's too young to die. No, no, no!

William looked at this sight and grinned contentedly. He knew that Jenny couldn't get out, she was doomed.

"Don't worry, I'll make you into something more than just a worthless model." William spoke in a whisper, as if calming the girl. "You can't even imagine how wonderful it is to be a beautiful mannequin that everyone admires." he was a psycho who went mad, but he liked it.

He was sure he was doing people a favour by pulling their skin over a mannequin. He thought they were ungrateful if they kicked and tried to run away.

William slowly walked up to the girl and slapped her in the face to calm her down.

"And you….You're all ungrateful scums who don't understand that I'm doing this for your own sake." William grabbed the girl's hand and inserted a syringe under her skin. The girl tried to pull away, but unsuccessfully, it hurted her even more. But soon it became more difficult to make movements, her eyelids were closing, her breathing slowed down. William injected her with poison to make her agony easier. Although he could have skinned her for profit, he felt sorry for her.

William returned to the table and picked up a small surgical knife. He looked at the girl's lifeless body again. She will make a wonderful mannequin, she'll thank him again.

***

A knock on the door.

"Come in." William said without looking up from his papers.

Men in police uniforms entered the office.

"Hello, Mr. Afton, we have come to you about the case of Jennifer Christie's disappearance, do you know anything?" one of the men asked.

"Jennifer went home after the fashion show, that's it, I never saw her again." pretending that he didn't know anything, William answered the question.

"Did you see anyone suspicious around her?"

William pretended to think. Martin, for sure, he'll be able to divert suspicion from William.

"She left with her manager and as far as I know, she treated him pretty badly, so…." William gave a little hint to the police. Oh, poor Martin, he gave so much nerve to Jenny, and now he's going to jail probably.

"Great, we have a suspect, thank you, Mr. Afton." the men turned around and left.

"Have a nice day." William said goodbye with a smile.

His gaze turned towards the new mannequin with dark skin, dressed in the same black dress with butterflies.

"Guess what, they're looking for you." he turned to the mannequin standing next to William's desk.

Jenny dreamed of being a star. She became one thanks to her parents, who will never see her again, but not all stars are destined to shine forever, right? Jennifer became one of such stars.

#william afton #dark fic #fnaf #william afton smut #william afton imagines #fnaf smut #fnaf x oc

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