Desolate Paradise - The Hope For Motorcity (OC - Rose Maiden) - 7/7

"I'm the only one left in the Fallen Motorcity. I’m left with a heavy burden to bare. I must restore Motorcity to its prior glory."

“I have such a little amount of time before I'm nothing but petals in the wind of this forgotten world..."

 A nice introduction to my Oc Rose maiden. I was just in the mood to create a drawing of her. Just getting out of my comfort zone.

 That’s the end of this doodle series. I will probably do this again but with different characters along with small stories.

I hope you guys liked the series and enjoyed the little stories that I came up with.

Selection page & introduction mockup of my Fear and Hunger 2: Termina OC! They're the animal handler and just so happen to go to Prehevil motivated by an internal problem, as they just so happen to be a marriage of Sylvain. Also a (non-canon) scene with Daan and a doodle page, including their moonscorched form, Janus.

They're really shy and uncomfortable around people (especially new ones and crowds), but with the mask, it just results in them seeming aloof and scary. At least it's something they and Marcoh can bond over at the start! They also slowly come out of their shell with Olivia's interest in plant biology and theirs in animal biology.

On day one, they'll be around the train and riverbank; on day two they'll be in and around the moldy apartments, and day three they'll be in the Virgin Maiden Forest, where they'll eventually moonscorch.

Skip Character History?

(⤵ Under the 'read more' is a very lengthy post! 2.5k words. You've been warned ^^;)

CHOOSE CHARACTER

CLASS/ Animal handler (Kirkas)

AGE/ 29

INFO/ Experienced with the toughest of animals, the animal handler knows their way around nature and the dangers that hide within. They aren’t afraid to stick their head in the mouth of a lion.

Incomplete soul

— Intro

The soothing sound of the railtracks... You are not used to such peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

You can't help but let your mind wander. You reminisce what has lead you to this point in life…

You grew up in a remote city that Voroniya claimed as its own, though you would never see much support in the aging administrative buildings and cracked concrete. The town itself was big, very big, but only one trainline cut through the fields and forests that surround it. When you played at the playgrounds, far away from the other kids, your hands would come back raw from the chipped paint.

It wasn’t as if the other children excluded you specifically, not at the start, but they could never find a connection with you. Or maybe the other way around. 

It didn’t seem that you belonged with them, or anyone else for the matter. Even around your own family, you started to clam up and not find the strength to push the words out. This alienation got so bad at one point you tried to leave this world. You failed.

You still craved a connection, but every other half didn’t fit with yours, like a missing puzzle piece. So instead, you searched for solace elsewhere.

>Isolate yourself at home

You closed yourself off to the world, though even your parents had trouble connecting with you once more. They tried to be understanding, then mad once you were adamant about hiding in your room for ages. You wouldn’t leave for class, you’d get left behind, and your muscles would atrophy. You had to fake going outside just for some peace and quiet, but you would in actuality hide in the closets and under the beds. You grew familiar with the mice that would scratch under the walls and the birds that would land on your windowsill. You learnt the skill Mastery over vermin.

>Run off into the woods

You run off one night, suffocated by the row of houses and families who can all talk but you. For the next two weeks, you find yourself in the ever sprawling forest, surviving cold nights by sleeping in the moss and sucking on rocksides to hydrate yourself. You had to learn which plants were safe by experience. Your uncle found you with hives and a deeper face than usual, but you can’t say you were ever scared in the woods. You never learnt the distinct cues of bird chirps or had the same gait as a burrowing fox, but your affinity with Vinushka rose & you learnt the skill Undergrowth awareness.

>Get close with the stray dogs outside

They were whimpery things, ribs poking out and gums gnashing, but you soon were able to get close to them after stealing pastries from the dinner table. After school was out, they wouldn’t run away from your beckoning hand, but that doesn’t mean you didn’t learn when they got too overwhelmed and ready to lunge. You were lucky for any bites to not get infected, but it was a lesson for you to maintain yourself. You got close enough to take naps with them hidden in rubble. Eventually, some adults noticed your interactions and tried to help by sending the dogs to kennels and be adopted. Perhaps the hounds had gotten a better life with a family, or they were culled for attacking a child. You never found out. You learnt the skill Unleash the hounds.

Your parents had you on a tighter leash once you came back. No running off for you anymore, and the remainder of your childhood years were once more silent and lonely. 

It gave you ample time to throw yourself into studies, however, with no other kids inviting you out for outings once your class got older. Not surprisingly, you aimed for animal care studies. You then slowly worked your way up from a local animal shelter, to bigger things. Learning to talk to other humans, like a human, was the greatest survival tactic you had to overcome, however.

Impassive and skilled, you found yourself leaving your big, desolate city, to work for an organization that helps with wildlife clean up. Years ago, before the second Great War, you had heard of Voroniya experimenting with chemical power. Of course, it ended up as an irradiated disaster, but the media coverage was much easier to clean up than the actual station in the wilderness. The codename for the location was ‘Hell.’ 

(Gain DOMA gas mask.)

You were good at what you did, and many a times were specifically called upon to do field work with these… mutated animals. It felt emotionally filling, you think, but you still came to an empty home. Many a time did you think of getting a cat, but even then, you worked random and long hours. It’d smell the other animals on you, anyway. 

The more you worked at the cleanup, the more you learnt of the branches of the organization. Or rather, it being a branch. It has ties to the Eastern Union military, and the goals weren’t to just observe and take care of the mutations, but to militarize them for its own use. 

The most surprising thing, however… was that you met someone. Someone you could hold a conversation with. 

A soldier, technically, but this person was a pencil-pusher and focused on archives and annotations, and DOMA’s project now fell under this associate’s jurisdiction. The two of you were grouped together, among others, and they took an interest in you as much as you did them. 

The task was to move some specifically aggressive animals into containment, at least for a higher branch to study them. You partially wished to be one of those scientists, but by now, your gas mask has become a second skin. 

The animals were contained in cages and kept in the basement while your team waited for pick-up to arrive, though you hoped that the tranquilizers worked well enough so they slept through the ride and discomfort.

Just as you watched your teammate note things down, the two of you heard noises from one of the cages. It was one of the dog-beasts, who had half-scales forming over its body by the time spent in Hell, and a rough personality that made for its lost years. It took the whole active half of the team to get it down. At any moment now, it was going to burst from its metal imprisonment and enact revenge.

Your friend was much closer to the exit, but you knew you had only one second to figure out what to do, being much closer to the cages.

>Subdue the beast yourself

As it lunges out, you think fast and fall back on adrenaline and skill to handle it. You have faith in your dear friend and colleague getting out the tranq gun, so all you need to do is be the muscle and pin the animal—no, beast down. Easier said than done. With its gaping and jagged maw, it gets you on the arm and shreds it. Past the pain, you realize you can’t move it anymore. It must have bit into your nerves. No matter, your vision is sharp and focused as you’re able to wrestle it down with your remaining strong arm. You have to pin the neck with your knee just as the tranquilizer is shot. Your arm is left bloody, but you learnt the skill One-handed.

>Brace for impact

Just as the lock breaks, you put one hand in your pocket and take out a syringe. Your remaining arm is held up to guard your throat as your feet get into a strong stance. This is as most prepared as you’ll get, it seems. The beast is but a blur as it jumps on you, and even in your uniform and split-second preparation, absolutely bites through your arm. You’re dragged down with it, and fumble with the tranquilizer in your other hand as you yell through the pain. It is muffled by your mask. For a moment, you’re afraid that you can’t penetrate the scales of the dog, but it soon goes limp in your hold. It ended as fast as it started, but you were left worse for wear, clutching your injured arm. You learnt the skill Perfect Guard.

Once more safe, the adrenaline leaves your body and you find yourself lightheaded from the blood loss. Just as your conscience slips away, you feel two hands support you before you drop to the tile floor.

The next time you wake, it is in a hospital. You have a cast on your arm, and even find a leg bandaged. You didn’t know at the time, but you ended up twisting a knee. Your partner-in-crime is sitting on a chair, and they turn out to be delighted in you waking up.

After the nurses made sure your blood levels were normal, you were discharged. You also found your gas mask to be cracked from the scuffle after you passed out, as your friend succinctly put. Oh, well. The organization told you to take an extended leave, so it wasn’t like you would need it in the near future anyway.

You had to learn to do things one-handedly back in your apartment, and it was more of a struggle to make yourself breakfast than it was to traverse the irradiated Hell. Days later of you rotting on your couch, you would slowly limp to the front door and find your only friend waiting. Turns out, they asked for time off as well to take care of you.

After that, the two of you got much, much closer, even after you regained most control of your arm. While you were resting and couchbound, your beau told you many stories of their hobbies to fill the time. Turns out, their archiving habit spanned their work and into their interests, namely of the Old Gods. 

The place you grew up in was quite secular. Sure, grandmothers told kids stories about spirits, but there was no construction for any God like other cities, towns, and villages have. At most, you just had the faintest connection to the deceased Vinushka’s traces, but your beloved’s interest was not devotional (and not for only one God), but rather of appreciation. You learnt of Alll-Mer’s ascension and what most people don’t know of just as you learnt of how Gro-goroth and Sylvain’s amore. 

There wasn’t a specific day that the two of you crossed from ‘friends’ to ‘lovers.’ It felt so natural that you could’ve blinked and missed it. You really couldn’t believe there could be a person like this, who’s caring, understanding, and talking to them feels like second nature to you. So, when your partner brings up experiencing a marriage of flesh for Sylvain, you see no downsides. 

Everything truly was perfect. You had heard of horror stories of failed ‘marriages’, but the two of you coming to one was as if fate had always intended for this to happen. You had Sylvain’s blessing.

The month off from work after you two became one was the most beautiful month in your lives. You never knew you could appreciate each brick that made your apartment until you left the house the next day. 

This euphoria didn’t last for long. Everything had been prim and fair at the start, with while you both were fused in conscience, inner conversation felt like a giddy secret you were in on. It was almost time to go back to the workforce, but the 50/50 train of thought didn’t remain much for long. It started to become more of ‘you’ and less of ‘them’, until you couldn’t feel their presence any longer. The day you couldn’t hear a single thought from them, as if they were locked away in full. 

They were still here, you still felt the twitch of a finger, or a tic only they grew up with, but there was a barrier put between the two of you. There was no body to mourn, but with you wearing half their face, there was equally no other head to caress, mouth to kiss, and to ask if they’re alright. You’re not sure if it would be better if they could hear your thoughts, freaking out at the loss of theirs, or not.

Just days before you’d go back to work, when you decided to buy a ticket out of your region. As they had told you the tales of all the Old Gods, a memory came to the front of your head of one conversation. The ascension of Alll-Mer, a special man who ascended once an Old God died for his spot. It wasn’t just the birth of Alll-Mer, that day, but the Sulfur God as well. One was locked far, far away, and most people know it to be the latter that was chained up and banished…

But if what some people say it to be as Gro-goroth took the skin of man and walked as one of their own… This memory of yours had been so strong, it was as if your lover was still guiding you along. A way to figure out to cut the chains, that’s what you need.

You don’t think you could ever reverse the process of Sylvain’s marriage, or if you even wanted to, but to at least hear your beloved’s voice again… That’s enough.

If by the desire of a Sulfur Priest to cause ruin and destruction, or by the desire of an Alll-Mer Follower to do good unto this world, you could reunite with them, you’d do anything in your power to achieve it. Your ticket is for a land reasonably far away, far enough that they start worshiping these Old Gods, but close enough that it falls under the Eastern Union’s current domain.

How do you prepare for your travels?

>Stock up on medical goods (Gain x2 Blue vials and Cloth fragment)

>Stock up on protection (Gain x2 Bear trap and Leather armor)

>Stock up on food (Gain x2 Dried meat and Moldy bread)

A lifetime ago, you would’ve hated talking to people, but to help get your partner back… Talking to a priest and a cashier should be similar enough, right?

— Extra

Incomplete soul skills:

Unleash the hounds: Be able to recruit the headless hounds, along with extra scenes with Moonless and August. -40 Mind if a recruited hound dies.

One-handed: Be able to use two-handed weapons with one hand and have 25% chance to not use up ammo.

So incomplete I haven’t thought of at least two more. Lol.

Other introduction trivia:

With Mastery over vermin, get extra mini-quest and scenes with the vermin.

With Vinushka’s affinity, get extra scene with Iki Turso about Vinushka being dead.

It is not confirmed which of the two sides is the original, and which was the partner.

DOMA: Дикие Обслуживание & Милитаризация Ада (Wild Observation & Militarization of Hell)

An introduction to my LMK characters :D

So I want to give you all an actual introduction to my LMK/JTTW babies-

So this will be that :) (Note: These are their lmk designs, I might post their jttw book designs some other time)

Zhaoyan "Zhao" Whang'e🍑

Zhaoyan is a Peach Maiden with the gift of healing that was passed down to the girls in her family. Zhao is very calm and motherly, she mostly just takes care of the plants and fruits from the Celestial Realm. However when she's not in the Celestial Realm, she's in Megapolis keeping MK company, MK and Zhao have a very Aunty-Nephew relationship.

Though she might seem social considering she's very good with kids and doesn't seem to have trouble with appealing to people, Zhao is very quiet and actively tries not to make many friends. This is mostly because of her past problems with her relationship towards her family and friends. With her leaving her family because of their mistreatment towards her, and the death of some people that were very close to her, who's death she still hasn't fully recovered from. But don't you worry, MK and Mei are working on helping her past these issues with the help of the gang™ >:)

Quanshuǐ Wǔ���

Quanshuǐ is a very warm and sweet person! She's talkative and loves animals. Though she is very sweet she's incredibly clumsy, often messing things up. In her past this lead her to be very critiqued by her fellow Flora Maidens, they would nag her day and night about how she just messes everything up. Because of this Quanshuǐ developed HUGE self worth issues and anxiety.... Or at least until she met Zhao

Zhaoyan was the sister Quanshuǐ never had, instead of tending to flowers who won't judge her all day, she was hanging around the many Gardens of peaches in the celestial realm. Eventually Quanshuǐ took a crack at people again by trying to befriend the other Peach Maidens as well, which she succeeded in doing!

The Peach Maiden's are sorta like her aunties now. She still has a bit of anxiety but for once instead of being around people who make her feel worthless over every single mistake, she's around people who love and appreciate her for who she really is :'))

(The sparrow named Huā is Quanshuǐ's best buddie. Quanshuǐ found Huā injured in the forest one day while she was tending to a rose bush. She took Huā to Zhao so she could heal her, and Zhao told Quanshuǐ she could take care of the sparrow because Zhao isn't the best with any other animals that aren't cats lol)

Yueliang "Yue"🌙

(off topic but why my man be standin' there like: 🧍‍♂️)

Yueliang or Yue as they call him, is an immortal Moon Spirit. He was born from a magical orchid that only grows on the Moon and after Chang'e- the goddess of the Moon found him she decided to take Yue in. Even these days he visits Chang'e very very often. Because that is his mama :>

Yue is a very silly and a "talk before you think" kinda' guy. He's very, very, very charismatic, respectless and chaotic. Nowadays he acts as a Jade Messenger because of his incredible speed. He delivers messages from the Jade Emperor to the other deities, sometimes he even delivers fake rude messages just to cause drama. He gets punished every time but he's just like "Yk what? T'was worth it. >:)".

Not to mention that Zhao and Quanshuǐ are his number 1 prank victims. He once turned all the Immortality Peaches invisible and the Peach Maidens & Quanshuǐ were just freaking the heck out, and he was just spying on them being like: Hehe look at them go :D

And ye, that's everyone for now! If I do make more LMK OCs I will edit this post. Thank you so much for reading and I hope you'll enjoy these little fella's as much as I do! :)

1 | Winter Is Coming

Joffrey Baratheon x Semi OC! Reader

(Y/n) Beaumont

Warnings: None

A/n: Sorry, this one’s more of an introduction <3

Word count: 1000

ALL CHAPTERS

————————

The sheets were soft and the sun high, shunning the previous chill of the night prior. A mixture of the songbirds and pure excitement awoke (Y/n) from her slumber, her halo of hair arising with her as she stood up from her bed and stretched with a soft hum. Her eyes were weary but bright and her body tired but alive with a fire of anticipation.

Her family, the Beaumonts, had been invited to join the King on a visit to Winterfell. Her father and King Robert had been the best of friends since their youth, hunting together, drinking together, and fighting side by side, creating an inseparable bond. Marcus Beaumont was a general, the highest of his kind, but had recently been dismissed due to his declining health, but the respect he had earned throughout the Seven Kingdoms would never decay, he had saved thousands and commanded victorious armies - he had never lost.

It had been years since the two had seen each other, 15 to be exact. Marcus had to return to the city of Adonis, just north of Riverrun, and leave his station at King's Landing as his wife, Alina, had just given birth to their one and only child, their daughter, their miracle; (Y/n). Being in one of the most notable families throughout the Seven Kingdoms meant their was immense pressure for an heir, even just a daughter, and finally that child had arrived.

He served within their city up until his dismissal, devoting his life to the cause. The city of Adonis had been remarked as one of the most beautiful in the whole of Westeros - the heartland of the Beaumont family. People were happy, flourishing, and fed and (Y/n) truly loved nowhere else more than her home. She feared travelling from sunny Adonis to chilled Winterfell would prove unwelcome for her, but she was willing to try.

"Father! What time are we to leave?" She asked, fluttering through her wardrobe to find her preferred dress.

Her handmaidens always insisted they ought to organise her clothing, but they had horrible taste and she trusted no one's sense but her own. The rest of her clothes were packed, by her own doing, of course.

"By noon, is everything ready?" Her father replied, asking the second part to a nearby maiden. The woman nodded hurriedly before she then retreated to (Y/n)'s room to begin lacing her into her dress and braiding her hair.

"Is this tight enough, my Lady?" She asked nervously.

(Y/n) huffed and looked in the mirror, turning left and right, "Yes, it is fine."

The handmaiden fiddled with her hands nervously, catching her Lady's eye.

"You're so very nervous." She then turned to the woman behind her, "Don't be, it makes me anxious."

"Sorry, M'Lady."

(Y/n) looked at her for a moment before waving her hand and sighing, "That will be all."

With a curtsy, the woman left, leaving (Y/n) to herself. After a few moments, there was a short knock on the door, "Yes?" She asked.

The door opened to reveal her mother, stood with her hands wrapped around something with a smile on her face. (Y/n) looked at her suspiciously before sitting on the edge of her bed, gesturing for her mother to join her.

"I shall miss you, my rose."

"And I, you, mother." She placed a hand over her mother's, "We won't be gone for too long."

Alina held a brief look in her eye, as if she knew something her daughter didn't, but hid it with her another smile. She unfolded her hands and used one to cover (Y/n)'s eyes, making her giggle.

"I have a present for you, open your palm."

The young girl complied and she felt the sharp cold of metal against her skin as chains gathered in her hand.

"Open."

A small gasp left the girl's mouth at the sight of the necklace; a red jewel had been encased in a chain of gold, wrapping around it like vines as it gracefully shone in the morning's light, "It's beautiful, mother." She complimented, quickly moving to put it on. It sat perfectly between the valley of her chest and draped across her collarbone.

In a moment of sentiment, she hugged her mother tightly, "Thank you."

There was a moment's silence before her mother spoke up, "I really will miss you." She pulled away and held her daughter's face in her palms, "You are destined for great things, little rose. I can feel it."

(Y/n) smiled, "I hope so."

Her mother wiped away a stray tear before standing up, "Right," she said, "off with you, you're father is waiting rather impatiently downstairs."

The young girl nodded and gestured for a maiden to take her belongings downstairs to be sorted for travel.

"Write to me?"

"Of course."

Her father's voice travelled loudly from down the hall, "(Y/n)!"

"Coming!" She replied, picking up her skirts and pressing a soft kiss to her mother's cheek before leaving.

Her father was stood at the end of the hall, by the stairs, tapping his foot impatiently, "Oh, there she is, her highness awakes." He snips sarcastically, making his daughter roll her eyes and push past him to go down the stairs. He smirked and followed behind her, making their way out towards the horses.

"Will Sansa be there?" Asked (Y/n), getting onto her horse.

"Of course, doll."

The nickname had stuck since childhood; he often recalled being afraid to touch her as a baby, scared she would break as if she were porcelain.

The nickname had stuck since childhood; he often recalled being afraid to touch her as a baby, scared she would break as if she were porcelain.

"Oh I am glad." She beamed as they began to depart, "I haven't seen her for so long, I wonder if she's missed me, do you think she'll be happy to see me?"

"I'm sure she will be, doll." Her father glanced at her with the same 'knowing' look her mother had, "I'm sure she will be."

And with that, they left for Winterfell.

"Oh I am glad." She beamed as they began to depart, "I haven't seen her for so long, I wonder if she's missed me, do you think she'll be happy to see me?"

"I'm sure she will be, doll." Her father glanced at her with the same 'knowing' look her mother had, "I'm sure she will be."

And with that, they left for Winterfell.

Introduction to Gwenora Rose Isham (OC/FO4)

*reference for first image, Jungkook's new Calvin Klein photos ♥

This post is all about my darling OC, Gwen, my overly-stressed people-pleasing Sole Survivor. ♥

Names:

Gwenora Rose Taylor (maiden name)

Gwenora Rose Isham (married name, prewar)

Gwenora Rose Hancock (married, postwar)

"Nora" (prewar nickname, Codsworth solely uses it)

"Gwen" (postwar nickname)

Traits:

Age: 27 (137 after emerging from Vault 111)

Birthday: November 10, 2060 (Scorpio)

Enneagram Type: 2w1

Height: approx. 5' 6"

Weight: 164 lbs. prewar, 125 lbs. postwar

Pronouns: she/her

Factions: Minutemen & Railroad

Occupation: bankruptcy lawyer prewar, General of the Minutemen postwar

Personality:

Gwen is a hard-headed, moralistic type of person. She deals with stress pretty well, until she doesn't. Her overly-stressed brain tends to shut down and she stops hearing and stops thinking. Unless she has someone close-by that can catch any signals that Gwen's having a silent meltdown who can step in and take over, she eventually overloads and removes herself from the situation, ignoring the problem altogether until she can clear her head. Gwen stays too busy to find downtime, but she used to like reading. Nowadays, she spends her downtime working with Sturges on various projects around Sanctuary. She tends to gravitate toward the people who support her endeavors and whose morals align with her own. She inevitably falls for Hancock after he helped her travel through the Glowing Sea to find Virgil before the downfall of the Institute. She's been told often that she's uptight and needs to relax (mostly by MacCready), but she insists that the moment she relaxes is when all hell will break loose. No, no, she'd rather be prepared for anything at a moment's notice, which makes her the perfect Minutemen General. Well, when she's not busy being Mom, anyway.

Fun Facts:

Gwen has oculocutaneous albinism type 2; her skin, eyes, and hair are extremely pale. Hancock's first impression of her was comparable to a porcelain doll posing as a merc.

Gwen's eyes are pale blue, almost light purple, and look red in certain lights and angles.

Absolutely hated her job as a bankruptcy lawyer. It was soul-sucking work. Her dad and step-mom, however, paid for her college. If she could have chosen, she would rather have been a policewoman. The closest thing she gets to that is working a few cases on the side with Nick.

Has suffered two major injuries so far: severe radiation burns from her elbows to her fingertips, and a sniper bullet that pierced through her right bicep (thank God for Stimpaks and Dr. Amari)

Hancock got Gwen a young Rottweiler as a way to say "sorry" after an argument, so she has two dogs in Sanctuary now (Dogmeat and Isabella) who spend a lot of time with "Shaun"

Gwen is actually a grandmother. Shaun, the Synth, is actually Liam, her grandson, who was born in the name of science. He was the model for Shaun's child Synth experiment, not Gwen's biological son.

Her weapon of choice is a 10mm pistol because it's light, easy to use, and the ammo isn't scarce. After practicing enough, he starts using two.

It still bothers her that she has to teach her kid how to shoot. It bothers her that her kid loves to tinker. It bothers her that her kid likes experimenting with radiation. It bothers her that she can't get nice things for him (nice clothes, nice food, etc). It really messes with her. Hancock helps her in that regard, reminding her that the world's not the same as it was, and offers to teach Liam (Shaun) what he knows that is within Liam's skill level at his age. (Liam really, really, really wants to know how to spin knives like Hancock does, but Hancock won't teach him yet; says he'll cut his fingers clean off.)

Still has deep-seated guilt that she wasn't holding Shaun that day in the Vault and strongly believes that her husband, the soldier, should have been the one to survive.

When Sanctuary didn't survive a Brotherhood assault, she decided to turn Sanctuary into the "Sanctuary Memorial Garden and Cemetary," which led to Vault 111 becoming the "Sanctuary Vault." She and Sturges spent A LOT of time fixing it up to working conditions to house Sanctuary's remaining settlers.

Secretly looks up to Marcy but is terrified of her. Had been wanting to work herself up to asking Marcy to trim her hair, since Marcy cuts her own hair, but never got the courage to bother her about it.

Deemed Sturges Liam's uncle. No explanation is necessary.

Kinda slept with MacCready that one time they were hammered on whiskey and they refuse to talk about it.

S.P.E.C.I.A.L. Stats:

S - 2 | P - 4 | E - 3 | C - 5 | I - 6 | A - 6 | L - 2 (based on standard 28-point distribution)

I would love to answer any asks about her. I'm working on two other OCs as we speak and will post character profiles when I can. ♥

You can find her story here.

Ch. 1

Pairing: Arthur Conan Doyle x Mina Van Gogh x Charles Henri Sanson

Tagging: @plumpblueberry​ @starry-starry-night24​ @youreawizardharr​ (please let me know if you want to be tagged)

A/N: First new oc of the 12 Days of OCmas! Eventual poly-ship. All the Van Gogh siblings will make appearances in this fic!

The dark sky shielded all light from reaching the path outside of the city. Steady rain fell into her soaked form, seeping its cold down into her bones. Trudging along the cobblestones with water pooling in her boots, the young girl shivered. Winter weather wrapped in a rainstorm was not ideal for the long walk.

She exhaled, like dragon’s breath spilling from her mouth, it hung in the air. Mina’s steps sluggish with the numbness spreading across her frigid limbs. This was the only opportunity she’d been given to escape and get this close to the mansion.

Hesitating at the large double doors, she cast a worrying glance behind her. It wouldn’t be unrealistic to fear that someone might be following her. That’s how overprotective her eldest sister was, or rather, how controlling. If she found out, Mina didn’t know what punishment might await.

“How long are you planning on loitering at the door?” The harsh voice paired perfectly with narrowed violet eyes and an annoyed frown. He held the door at a crack, opposed to letting her in.

Mina only paused for a second. “I’m looking for Vincent.”

“Why?”

Why was this man so concerned? Perhaps she should admit that she was also a lesser vampire, but she chose not to. “I’m a friend of his. He’ll want to see me.” That was only half the truth, but it was enough to get her entry.

He demanded that she wait there, muttering under his breath as he walked away.

Alone, Mina investigated the entrance. The whole room warm and bright, like a real home. Not like the place that she lived, which was empty and dark. A stark difference. She let out a soft sigh, brushing her wet bangs away from her face.

“I heard we had a guest. What a pretty little skirt.” The curious man descended the stairs, sauntering up to her as if she were solely there to see him. A wicked grin grew on his lips. “Hello there, love. I’d be delighted to know your name.”

He was very close. Mina found it impossible to look directly at him. If she stared into those blue pools too long, she might absolutely drown. “I’m Mina.” Her voice failed her, barely above a whisper.

“Mina, I’m Arthur. It’s lovely to meet you. What brings you to our humble home?” He asked. She was nervous, pulse racing. Her gaze couldn’t settle. But no, he found no ill intent.

“I- well-”

“Broer, you shouldn’t meet with strangers. I can handle this.”

“It’s alright, Theo. They came all the way here. It must be important.”

Oh, she was not prepared.

All her psyching herself up sizzled out completely.

Arthur observed her behavior with mild curiosity. How interesting. “You’re familiar with Theo and Vincent, are you?” He kept hold of her hand, brushing his thumb gently across her knuckles. It must have been them that brought her here.

“Oh, Arthur, you’re here, too. Mozart said there was someone here for me,” Vincent said, his protective little brother right behind him. No one received visitors, so he’d been quite surprised.

Mina stiffened at his voice, one that she had terribly missed. But her fears overtook her. She needed a moment to calm down, that’s all.

“Oi, is that her?” Theo’s gruff tone did not aid in soothing her nerves.

She was so very grateful that neither of them could see her. Mina reached out a shaky hand to clutch Arthur’s jacket. Her head shook slowly. “I- help-please--” Her voice just loud enough for the mystery writer to hear.

He didn’t quite understand what was going on, but who was he to deny a lovely maiden in need. “I’m not sure,” Arthur replied to the brothers, tugging Mina forward protectively into his arms. “But this sweet skirt is here for me, and you’re frightening her terribly, Theo.”

“The hell did I do?” Theo asked, irritation laced in his voice.

“Well, I suppose it must not have been that important. I’m sorry we interrupted,” Vincent replied.

It hurt more than she realized. The dull ache in her chest turning sharp. Only once they’d gone could she breathe fully again. A gloved hand rested atop her head as a silent comfort. “Oh, I’m sorry-” She pulled away, heat flushing her cheeks.

“Let’s get you some dry clothes and then you can tell me all about why you’re here.” Arthur said, arm falling around her small shoulder, guiding her to his bedroom. What a curious situation he’d found himself in.

Only when the door to his bedroom close did Mina relax. My apologies, luv, but this is the smallest I could find. The clothes in her hands would be baggy, but she cared little when soaked to the bone. However, the trousers staying up would be quite the problem. 

“Hmm, let’s try this,” Arthur said, still snickering at how tiny the woman looked in his clothes, and the hint of pink on her cheeks at his teasing was adorable. She’d be thrilling to play with, he thought. But first, he produced a pair of suspenders, clipping it to the front and back of the trousers and adjusting the length.

Mina was hyper aware of his hands occasionally brushing against her body. “Th-thank you. I’m sorry I dragged you into this,” She apologized. How embarrassing. He must think her some kind of coward.

The writer plopped on the chaise, patting the space beside him. “There’s no need for that beautiful face to have such a sad expression. I helped you because I wanted to, so there’s absolutely no reason for apologies. I am curious about your business with dear ole Vincent.”

His hypothesis currently was that she was a long-lost child. Her bone structure similar, and eye color the same cerulean blue. Physically, save for the raven locks, she fit the part. The only missing piece was that the author couldn’t fathom the gentle Vincent having a fling.

“No, I...” Mina couldn’t draw her gaze away from his, as if he were holding her there to peek at her darkest secrets. Besides, after all he’s done for her, lying would be rude. “I’m Willemina Van Gogh, the fourth child and youngest sister of the Van Gogh family, and I’m also a resurrected vampire, like my brothers and you.”

Arthur searched her but found no lies. She surely believed that she was a vampire, and it would account for how she managed to come to this mansion unimpeded. Most humans didn’t know this place existed. But what fun would it be to simply accept her word. A sly smirk spread across his lips. “Alright, then why don’t you just give me a little bite? You must be parched, after all.”

Mina flushed, surprised by his proposal. Since vampires were a well-kept secret, of course she couldn’t just say it was so. Something about his cheeky tone lit a fire of determination in her. “Alright. If you want proof, then I’ll bite you.”

“Ah, grand! No need to be shy,” Arthur teased, tilting his head to the side, and tapping his neck with his index finger. She was to do it, which absolutely thrilled the writer.

The room’s temperature rose. Mina leaned in slow, convincing herself that she’d be quick and not drink his blood. He smelled of ink and fudge, a strange but alluring mixture. A streak of smudged black ink showed some frustration from his work.

Deep blue irises studied the woman. “Something the matter, luv?”

She jumped at the sound of his voice, his adam’s apple bobbing as he spoke, drawing her in. Mina didn’t answer with words, instead sinking her fangs in. His warm blood coated her tongue, and a low moan escaped from the author’s lips, only making her desire to hear it more.

Mina could lose herself entirely with only a sample of his blood.

But she maintained self-control and pulled away, licking the last drops of the delicious nectar off her bottom lip.

Vampire bites were meant to soothe human prey. They stung, and then spread pleasure in order to subdue them into submission. It affected vampires similarly, except it tended to only make them crazed for each other.

Arthur was buzzing with desire. His features flushed, throat dry, and body burning with need for her blood. He hooked an arm around her waist, hauling her into his lap. Her cerulean irises begging for him to continue.

If only he’d locked his door before he’d begun this little game.

“Hey! Who the hell are you?” Theo had thrown the door open hard enough to knock it from its hinges. He’d heard from Mozart that there wasn’t two women in the mansion, only one.

Mina jerked back from Arthur’s embrace, falling promptly onto the floor. “T-theo!” She yelled in absolute embarrassment, forgetting entirely that he had little idea of who she was. All that swam through her mind was that he’d seen her so intimately with a man.

His eyes narrowed, trying to puzzle out why she knew his name.

One gentle but shocked voice covered all the others. Vincent hardly needed an introduction as he recognized her straight away. How could he forget his darling little sister of whom he’d been so close to?

“Will? You’re... alive?”

Okay, so here’s what you can expect from me this upcoming week.

A new chapter of The Chocolate Prince and The Lovely Maiden will be out today

That therapy fic I mentioned a few days ago. If you wanna be tagged for that, please let me know

An introduction to my Dark Shadows OC (might be making a side blog for that. Idk yet)

I haven’t done headcanons in awhile. Might think up of some. I’ve there’s any specific headcanons you want, let me know

And expect a spam of aesthetic reblogs from me. I found a couple of aesthetic blogs I liked and they have a lot that fits my Rose aesthetic and 🍫Chocolate Flowers💐 aesthetic

Another 🍫Chocolate Flowers💐 Wednesdays.

And reminder, I do take requests too 🥰

GX Month 2020

SUper late and I’m too lazy to do anything (as always), but this seems like fun to think about. So let’s go!

Day 1 (August 31): “Game on!” (It’s Judai/Jaden Yuki’s birthday today! Let’s celebrate!): 

Jaden is a great protagonist. I love dumb but OP main characters, especially when they got lucky-go attitudes. 

Day 2 (September 1): “Red, Yellow, Blue!” (Ah, the tier system at Duel Academy. Which dorm is your favorite?): 

I’m attached to Slifer Red, lol. They got a cat for mascot, what more do I need? Also, they serve tempura for lunch.

Day 3 (September 2): “Rule the School” (These kids might be saving the world, but they’re still students with homework to do and exams to pass. Celebrate the school life today!):

Don’t know what to put here, but I was a terrible student because I didn’t study or do things in a timely manner. Do better than me, kids. 

Day 4 (September 3): “Sometimes I Can’t Believe We’re Related” (10Join! Today is all about the iconic brother-sister pair, Fubuki Tenjoin/Atticus Rhodes and Asuka Tenjoin/Alexis Rhodes!):

I love this sibling pair! ^^ Alexis is really cool, and Atticus is so far out of the left field. I really thought Atticus was going to be cool like his sister, or edgy like Zane, but nah, this guy is, like, I just want to support my sister and play this ukulele. They make such a contrasting pair, so it adds to the humor.

Day 5 (September 4): “Pass The Salt” (No story is perfect. So what is something you wish you could have seen in the story of GX?)

I can’t think of anything. 

Day 6 (September 5): “Going Down With The Ships!” (You know what I’m talking about. We all have an armada parked in the bay, but there’s that one ship, that one ship, that you would die for. Today is all about OTPs and OT3s!)

I really like Rivalshipping. I don’t really have that many ships for GX. 5D’s and Zexal are more of my jam. 

Day 7 (September 6): “Bring the THUNDER” (Ichi! Juu! Hyaku! Sen! Chazz it up! Today the world does in fact revolve around Jun Manjoume/Chazz Princeton.)

HANDS DOWN, one of my two top choices for favorite rival. (Jack’s the other.) My favorite things about Chazz are his name, his energy, and that fact that he’s a baby brother. He’s so cute! ^^ I just want to make fun of him.

Day 8 (September 7): “The Power of Friendship!” (Favorite dynamic duo, two characters you think would have been friends if only they met, how friendship saves the day, or maybe a friendship fail. It’s up to you!):

Chazz and Pharoah, lol. I need Chazz to hold that cat and pet it. Why didn’t he? :’(

Day 9 (September 8): “Born to be Bad” (Inherently evil, brainwashed, misguided, or misunderstood. GX boots a colorful cast of villainy. Who’s your favorite bad guy?):

I haven’t finished season 4 yet, but Nightshroud. 

Day 10 (September 9): Free Day/Introductions (Tell us about yourself and your GX experience! Your favorites, why you like it, how you got into it. Or leave the day open to do whatever you want!):

I’m known as kappa. I got Hulu, and Hulu has almost all the YGO series excluding VRAINS and SEVENS which is fine because I also have Crunchyroll and the internet, lol; so, I watched all the YGO series simultaneously, skipping back and forth between series. I did not watch any of them in order. GX was number 5 or 6, but it’s the one series I’m putting off. 

Day 11 (September 10): “Cyber Legacy” (No Yu-Gi-Oh! show is complete without a pair of brothers. Today’s stars are Sho Marufuji/Syrus Truesdale and Ryo Marufuji/Zane Truesdale!):

I love these guys! It was great to see them grow and become their own people. ^^ They had, I think, the most realistic relationship.

Day 12 (September 11): “But What If We Had Bikes?” (That’s right! It’s time for the GX crew to rev it up on their very own D-Wheels/Duel Runners!):

I CANNOT DRAW. SORRY LMAO

Day 13 (September 12): “And You Are…?” (Got a favorite OC? Or one you’ve been hiding in the closet? Introduce them to the world today!):

I only have a Rivalshipping OC baby. Her name is Mira Princeton, and she has Jaden’s brown hair and Chazz’s dark eyes (with a bit of a golden glow). Since both her parents can see spirits, it’d make sense that she can too, lol. Her companion is Yata-Garasu, a rare card that her mama won at a tournament. She likes pink and flowers. She is very close to Aster and calls him Uncle Aster. She’s four, and most of her life, she knows her dad as the “Slifer slacker but a really good duelist.” 

I love her. :)

Day 14 (September 13): “The Perfect Formula” (He duels with the power math and science! Today, show the world that you still remember Daichi/Bastion Misawa!)

Bastion is a funny character. “Everything is science. I’m going to disappear for several months. Don’t forget to forget me,” I think. 

Day 15 (September 14): “Insert pun here” (It’s meme day! Recreate your favorites! Make some shitposts! Be the troll you’ve always wanted to be!):

Bastion: SIr, I’m afraid your DNA is backwards.

Jaden: AND?

Day 16 (September 15): “Creation and Destruction” (The Gentle Darkness and the Light of Destruction. The eternal struggle. And also the Darkness that tried to drown the world. Huh. Feels a little unbalanced.):

It’s pretty cool to have darkness and light reverse, and then watch as darkness conflict with itself, lmao. The Light of Destruction would be a chaotic good, and the Gentle Darkness as chaotic neutral. (Don't quote me on that, I don’t do personality quizzes.) 

Day 17 (September 16): “Putting the D in Destiny” (Pro duelist by day and crime fighting vigilante by night. Today is Edo/Aster Phoenix’s day!):

He’s great. I like him. He’s the precursor to Declan Akaba’s D/D/D archetype. Maybe not. Can you believe that he actually said “Shmaden Shmuki on national TV???? LMAO

Day 18 (September 17): “In Another Life” (It’s AU day!):

Currently trying to write a fantasy-ish AU in which Jun marries the Supreme King. Trust me, I have no idea what I’m doing.

Day 19 (September 18): “I Was Here Too!” (GX has a vast array of unique characters, some of which we only saw once. Pick a “one shot” character and show them off!):

I really like Princess Rose. She was pretty, and her spirit monsters care for her. I appreciate that. 

Day 20 (September 19): Free Day 2/Support Fellow Creators (Show some love for your favorite creators, or leave the day free for whatever you please!):

Literally @ everyone whose work(s) and/or post(s) I’ve reblogged. Keep up the good work!

Day 21 ( September 20): “Prehistoric Predators” (The dino duelist with a fossil in his leg. Today is all about Kenzan Tyranno/Tyranno Hassleberry!):

Dino DNA is so funny; I’m sorry, Hassleberry, but I don’t like dinosaurs. At least you were cute as one. 

Day 22 (September 21): “Stop Blowing Holes In My Ship!” (Some ships are popular and some are…not. Today is all about rare pairs and crack ships! Give those underdogs some love!):

Tanya/Bastion is kind of cute. And I guess Chazz/Atticus too. ^^ 

Day 23 (September 22): “And For Today’s Lesson…” (The teachers at Duel Academy have their work cut out for them, but they still take care of their students. Show the DA staff some love today!):

Fonda Fontaine!

Day 24 (September 23): “Legend of the Seven Gems” (Resurrect the greatest light in history today with Johan/Jesse Anderson and the Crystal Beasts!):

Johan is very cute! I’m so glad they gave him a Southern accent in the dub. ^^ It makes him extra soft and lovable. I can’t believe that Johan/JIm is called Cowboyshipping, but I love that name so much.

Day 25 (September 24): “For The Glory of Academia!” (We got to see Asuka/Alexis and Edo/Aster over in Fusion Dimension, but what about the rest of the cast? Show us some Fusion counterparts today! What are these dorks up to and what part do they play in the war?):

I’m bad at rewriting canon. ^^: Sorry. 

Day 26 (September 25): “Dream Team From Overseas” (Austin O’Brien/Axel Brody, Jim “Crocodile” Cook, and Amon/Adrian Gecko. Today is all about them!)

I absolutely love Jim Cook, from him being Australian to having a crocodile as his best friend to getting burned with a mysterious object to cowboy hat. xD 

Day 27 (September 26): “Duel Monster Spirit Day!” (The world of GX is full of spirits. Do something fun to celebrate your favorite!):

Mine would be Scapeghost and Rose Garden Maiden! 

Day 28 (September 27): “Gold Eyes in The Darkness” (Today’s all about the Supreme King! Unleash the Darkness and create your content!):

I like his aesthetic. I’m into Chazz/Supreme King for sure.

Day 29 (September 28): “Don’t Forget Me!” (Have an underappreciated character you wish you’d seen more of? Give them some love today!):

Miss Dorothy! She’s wonderful, she’s friend shaped. 

Day 30 (September 29): Free Day 3 (Share anything. Anything at all. It’s free game.): 

The Chazz/Supreme King fic I’m working on: The Supreme King’s Husband (Prologue)

Day 31 (September 30): “Gotcha!”:

Is this a Pokemon reference? O_o

Roommates AU Chapter 1; Meeting the Neighbors

A cab parked by an average looking apartment building. It was a normal city-type complex, so no one really paid attention to it. A pink hedgehog, around the age of 19 had gotten out of the cab. She looked around, and then looked at her phone. ‘This is the place, I guess.’ She took her bags out of the taxi, and went to door number 15. Out came a whiteish-grey hedgehog.

    “Hi! You must be the new girl! I’m Silver the Hedgehog.” The hedgehog introduced himself to the pink girl.

    “Hi. As you might know, I’m Amy. Amy Rose.” Silver chuckled. Amy had a puzzled look on her face. Why was he laughing? Was there something on her face?

     “Sorry. It’s just that, all the hedgehogs I’ve ever met usually have ‘The Hedgehog’ as their last name.” Amy giggled.

    “Well…not me. My dad wasn’t in my life, and so I had to go by my mom’s maiden name. Rose. But, she wasn’t really in my life, either. She left me when I was three and I grew up with my aunt and uncle.” She looked up with determination that Silver didn’t know was possible for the young girl. “Ehh. She probably died. But that’s okay.” Silver was very surprised now. He opened the door fully, and helped her bring her bags in.

    “I was wondering when you’d get here, I was about to call a group meeting. Now that you’re here, we can begin!” Silver told her to put her suitcases in an empty room. He then led her into his living room where a bat, three hedgehogs, a cat, a fox, and an echidna were sitting in. There was a specific blue hedgehog that had caught Amy’s eye. He was staring back at the pink hedgie. They both blushed and looked away.

   “Okay Silver, we’re here. What do you want?” a black and red hedgehog asked.

   “Shadow, relax. First of all, the landlord won the lottery, and said that as a surprise, he’ll decrease the rent.” Everyone cheered. “Secondly, we have a new neighbor. Amy Rose.” He scooted to the side, so everyone could look at her. She froze at the attention.

    “U-Uhm, hi? I’m Amy Rose. I’m 19 years old, and I am a college student at Mobius University. I also have a bakery nearby that’ll be opening in two days. I hope we all become good friends, thank you.” She stepped behind Silver again.

   “Let’s all introduce each other as well.” Silver gestured over to Sonic, who was sitting at the far end of the couch. He looked away from the pretty pink hedgie, and cleared his throat.

    “Hey, I’m Sonic the Hedgehog! I’m fast at everything!” The turquoise hedgehog girl sitting next to him scoffed.

    “Everything, BUT, relationships.” She stood up. “I’m Lyra the Hedgehog. I’m Sonic’s little sister, and I’m also a medical student training to become a psychiatrist. (giving my OC the job I’m studyin’ for LOL) I love coffee, the night, and I really hope we become good friends, Amy! You seem really nice! I even hope my brother fal-” She was interrupted with Sonic smacking his hand over her mouth.

    “Ugh. I’m Shadow the Hedgehog. I am not in anyway related to Faker over there, or his annoying and ugly sister, or Silver over there.” Silver seemed to be in a daze, so Amy snapped her fingers to break him out of his trance. There was a purple cat next to Shadow, who looked all professional and had the aura of a businesswoman.

    “I’m Blaze. Blaze the Cat. I am an accountant, and I live in the middle floor with Rouge the Bat. Speaking of roommates, who’s yours?” Silver spoke up.

     “Me.” They all nodded. Sonic looked a little less cheerful, making Amy wonder why his emotions changed all of a sudden. Silver turned towards the twin-tailed fox.

     “I’m Tails the Fox! I’m a mechanic, so if you have a car in need of fixing, just let me know! I’m also a scientist studying at Mobius University, so I might see you often.”

     “Don’t fall for him, Ames. He’s a womanizer.” Sonic said, chuckling a bit. Amy didn’t focus at what he said at all. She only focused at what he called her.

Ames.

She didn’t recognize this feeling, and didn’t know how to feel except hot. At the cheeks and ears.

      “What do you mean, womanizer?” the bat asked, intrigued at where this conversation was going.

      “He’s two-timing innocent little cinnamon rolls.” Lyra answered, taking out her phone.

      “And who might they be?” Rouge asked leaning over to Tails, getting the red echidna next to her upset.

      “Guys! The introduction?” Silver yelled, trying to get them out of their gossiping state. They all shut up, and leaned back in their seats.

      “Hi hun, I’m Rouge the Bat. I love to party! I’m an FBI agent just like Shadow over there.” She jerked her thumb over at Shadow.

       “Rouge, why is it that you’re trying to tell the whole world what our jobs are?” He asked, clearly annoyed at her.

       “Because why not? She doesn’t seem like the type to go around doing bad stuff.” Rouge said. Shadow made a ‘Are you fucking kidding me?’

       “Are you actually-? You know what? I’m not even going to argue.” Shadow stated, not attempting to explain to her that she shouldn’t be assuming things.

      “Anyways, passing whatever all that was…I’m Knuckles the Echidna! I-”

      “TAKE STEROIDS!” Sonic yelled, interrupting what Knuckles was about to say. Everyone, including Amy began to laugh.

       “NO I DON’T!” Knuckles yelled back.

       “YES YOU DO!”

        “I SEE WHERE THAT ANNOYING HABIT OF INTERRUPTING PEOPLE CAME FROM, LOOKING AT YOUR SISTER!” Knuckles shouted at him. Lyra put her hand to her chest, as if she were offended, but she actually was.

        “LISTEN HERE YOU HOT-HEADED ENCHILADA, I WILL NOT HESITATE WHEN YOU CALL ME ANNOYING!” Lyra screeched at Knuckles, trying to get her point across. Sonic cleared his throat, as if saying that she wouldn’t hesitate in her brother being called that either. “or my brother. Still, you better watch your words, or your dick will be chopped off, and I will shove it down your throat.” She threatened, having the red echidna sink all the way into the couch.

      “Maybe threaten something else that isn’t his dick?..” Rouge asked. Knuckles glared at her with fury.

      “…Um…Amy, why don’t you go check out your room? I need to talk to everyone.” Amy nodded, and slowly walked to the room where her suitcases were. It wasn’t a very big apartment, just two bedrooms and two baths. She heard Silver’s voice and couldn’t help but eavesdrop on their conversation.

      “Seriously guys? I just wanted you to introduce yourselves, but no, you just had to go and start yelling out the most stupidest things! Now Amy’s going to think that we’re freaks, and move out as soon as possible!” As soon as the phrase “Amy’s going to think we’re freaks,” she heard Sonic yell “NO!”

      “Don’t worry, Silver! I think that you guys are amazing, and I’m staying, no matter what weird things I might catch you all doing!” Amy found herself saying, as she stepped from behind the wall.

       “You definitely are. You see, anytime someone moves here, we always have this test to determine their personality. You, have passed this test. Beware, for there are more tests to come.” Silver said. Amy only nodded, as everyone got up and started going back to their apartments. Sonic, the blue hedgehog, seemed to linger. Once Amy was in her room, she turned to the door to see Sonic at the doorway.

       “Hi!” Amy exclaimed, a little too excitedly. Sonic blushed red, and put a hand on his neck.

       “Hey.” Was all he said, which made Amy internally swoon. “Um…You said you own a bakery nearby?” He asked.

       “Yes. It’s called Rose Cafe. It’s going to open in a few days.” She said, while unpacking her suitcases and putting her clothes in a closet.

       “Nice…So…ya need any help with unpacking?” He questioned, as he walked over to her bed and sat on it.

        “No thanks, I’m fine. Now, before we start talking anymore, tell me about the others. The people that live here. What’re they like, and how willing are they to make friends?” She asked, as she took out a red halter dress, pausing to take a piece of lint off.

        “Well, I’ll start with Shadow. He usually never talks, but if he seems a little open to you, that either means you might mean something to him, or you’re a suspect of a crime without even realizing it.” She rose her eyebrows in interest. “Then there’s my sister, Lyra. She’s a chatterbox, but she’s also a bit comforting. Children love her for some creepy reason, and you should never get on her bad side, because she can smell your weaknesses and use them against you. She’s like Shadow and Rouge, but more idiotic. She likes Shadow, but I feel like he’s looking at Silver. If he were to look at my sister, I’d kill him.”

       “Do Shadow and Rouge work together?” Sonic nodded at her question.

      “I guess you could say that their partners, but also friends with benefits. Rouge loves to party all night. She can gather information really quickly, and uses seductive charm on people to get it. Even through girls. Even if they’re straight.” Amy looked petrified at that. Sonic chuckled at her reaction. “Then there’s Tails. He’s really nice, but is a Ladies’ man. Probably because they all think ‘Oh, he’s cute as a button!’ or ‘He’s so polite!,’ well, don’t fall for that, he’s already got two girls who don’t know about the other.”

         “Why is he dating two girls at once?”

         “He claims that he loves them both, and I guess I understand?” He shrugged, and continued talking. “Knuckles says he’s not on steroids, but I’m pretty sure he is. Why do you think he’s so bulk?” Amy giggled at Sonic doing an impression of Knuckles flexing his muscles. “He’s dating Rouge, but she’s constantly cheating on him. He’s too dense to notice, and it annoys me. Poor guy doesn’t deserve that slut.” Amy thought that what he had called the bat was rude.

      “Sonic! Even though she may seem like a slut, maybe there’s a reason she does so!” He only scoffed at her comment.

       “If you say so. Anyways, then there’s Silver. He’s really close to the landlord, who lives three cities away. He’s kind of like the leader of the place. He’s really nice, and he also likes Shadow. It causes some rivalry and competition between him and Lyra to win his affections. Although, I don’t think he notices either of them. I think that’s all-”

       “You forgot Blaze the Cat.”

       “Oh. Well, I don’t know much about her, seeing as she’s always in her office, I think she likes Silver, and doesn’t like talking, but when it comes to Rouge doing something that pisses her off, she starts going off like an airhorn.” Amy giggled. “At least there’s another girl here. You could stop them from arguing. Lyra would do that, but she always gets herself into the argument as well.” Amy smiled.

       “Yes, sir! I will try my best, and won’t stop until the war has been won!” She saluted him playfully, making the two laugh. She put her suitcase in the closet, and put her p.j’s on the bed. Sonic hopped off, and went towards the door.

        “It was nice meeting you, Ames. See you tomorrow!” And he walked out, leaving a shocked Amy.

He called her Ames again. She made sure to lock the door behind him and squeal in delight. They’ve known each other for barely a day, and he’s already gave her a nickname. What a guy.

OC Backstory Weeks by @yourocsbackstory​ | Week 5: Loss

Introduction | Family | Friends | Rivals | Loss (~900 words)

Martha von Hochfels | The Dawnbringer

The heavy bronze bells resounded across the city, singing their very own song of grief. I could feel it humming inside of me. It reverberated in my chest, my bones, my heart. To hear even the bells lamenting made me realise that I could never relive the bygone days.

The queen had left our world, and Alasing mourned. Soon word of the grave news would reach into every corner of Issarien that Queen Alburg had died.

As much as it clawed on my heart, it had been no surprise. My grandmother had been sickly for some time, and the past few weeks she had not once left her bed. She had always been wilful, however, and strong and resilient, but death comes for everyone eventually.

Even now she looked regal and as though she was merely asleep upon the marble altar of the temple. White flowers rested between her folded ringed fingers. They had garbed her in a deep orange gown, embroidered with suns, and had braided her grey hair elaborately. A slim golden coronet lay around her forehead, glittering beautifully in the sunlight that filtered through the windows.

Despite the illuminating sun, candles flickered eagerly upon the marble steps to the altar. Once they had burnt down, they would be replaced, and their lights would shine brightly even when darkness had long veiled the day.

After my grandfather died, Queen Alburg had ruled the kingdom for two more years. But grief had a steely hand around her heart and the burden of the responsibilities weighed too heavy on her mind, and so she gave her crown to my father one year before I was born. Sadly, I never knew my grandfather, but she often talked about a humorous man who brought a smile to her face from the very first moment they met.

Issarien had lost a reserved but benevolent and dutiful queen who sincerely listened to her people's needs. Our family had lost a mother and a grandmother who loved to laugh and share stories. Even in her last days, there had been smiles on her lips when she cupped my cheek with a fragile hand.

My cold fingers were interlaced with my cousin’s. Her skin was but a little warmer than mine, yet I clung to the little warmth as I shivered from the persistent icy sensation that took hold of my body. Beneath my black gown of thick cotton, goosebumps rose on my skin. The more I tried to withhold my tears, the tighter my throat sealed up.

Father stood as unmoving as a statue, and even if it seemed as though he did not notice my mother's arm curled around his, I knew how much he cherished it. Beside him was his younger brother Bredelin, his wife comforting him, brushing a tender hand over his arm. They stood with their backs to my cousins and me, closer to the altar than we did. I did not want to go closer, did not want to say goodbye, but our time to step forward was near.

My lips trembled. Swallowing thickly, I lifted my gaze to Tilda beside me. Her features were hardened, her jaw squared as her blue eyes seemed to stare into nothingness. But she squeezed my hand a little tighter. I'm here, she said without that any words left her lips.

My cousins and their parents had arrived two days before after they had received the news that our grandmother had grown too feeble to recover. I was glad for their presence, and whenever they came to visit, the keep was more lively, warmer even and filled with dear memories.

A snivel rang to my left side, and I turned my head to Garrick. Hair as ginger as my own, my cousin had his head lowered to his feet. He was eighteen, three years younger than I was, and I had never seen him cry before. To me, he had never been someone for tears. I reached for his hand too, wound my fingers around his, and drew him closer. Garrick wiped on his face before he looked at me. A sad smile curled around his lips, and he gave a nearly invisible nod.

So we stood there, cramped together in a comforting closeness, trying to shield each other from sorrow that had nestled in all of our hearts. It reminded me of the time when we were younger, when we sat before a crackling fireplace on soft furs, listening to our grandmother's melodic voice. Often she had told us tales of heroic knights and brave maidens, and of wonders that were impossible to believe, and yet when we were children we believed it all. Tilda had been a fearless little girl, and yet when our grandmother told us of a gigantic sea dragon that shot through the waves like an arrow to steal children from the shores, she grabbed my arm tightly.

Grandmother had a way of weaving words that no matter how often she had told a story already, it sounded entirely new and as though we had heard it for the very first time.

I had not heard her stories for a very long time, and as I stood inside the vast temple I yearned back the time when we were but children, captivated by fantastic stories before a warming fireplace.

The warmth of my cousins hands left mine as we stepped forward. I lowered my head, closed my eyes, and drew in a ragged breath as tears slid down my cheeks. Saying my silent prayers, I bid farewell to a queen, a sister, a daughter, a mother and a grandmother.

OC Test: Intro

Say hello and greet each other like if it’s school or something.

Valerie:Why was this not the first test? Why did we literally jump Carmine to get information out of her?

It was entertaining...

Yujin:Hello everybody! I’m Yujin Xiao Long, daughter of Jaune Arc and Yang Xiao Long. Nothing really special about me besides being awesome without any effort hehe. I like french toast and want to be known as an exceptional huntress by my own skills. Also I don’t really know my own mother that well but let’s not get into that.......

Tenzen:Why would you say that in a school like introduction?

Yujin:Shut up, it’s an impulse and it’s not actually school. Now do yours.

Tenzen:What’s everyone, Lie Tenzen is the name. I may or may not remind you of two amazing members of team JNPR known as Nora and Ren. *smiling* Hard to believe it myself actually. I like breakdancing, cooking, meditation, and being around the the coolest person in all of Remnant, Yujin. *puts arm around her*

Yujin:*red* Why am I apart of your intro?

Tenzen:Because you’re apart of my life.

Yujin:(I’m gonna marry the hell out of him) If you say so.

Jacquelyn:*waving enthusiastically* Might as well go next. I am Jacquelyn Frost, friends call me Jackie. Not really much to say about me honestly. For years I’ve traveled around the world, I’m infatuated with the stories of people’s lives, and somehow I managed to have a wonderful family. Two beautiful daughters and a handsome husband who I love dearly. *blushing*

Sienna:......and you’re the winter maiden.

Jacquelyn:Eh, I’m also that too. I guess that’s pretty interesting to someone.

Sienna:Geez, you’re so carefree sometimes it’s staggering. My name is Sienna Frost , no it’s not the name I was born with but it’s the one I own proudly. Currently in my early twenties but was adopted by the winter maiden and my father when I was six. I like to think I’m pretty nice and approachable as long as you’re not dumb or rude. Currently I’m living comfortably in Menagerie to help Blake create change. *tiger ears wiggle*

Jacquelyn:(That’s a nice way of putting it.)

Jael:My turn, I’m Jael Frost, the blood related child of Jacquelyn and Ad-.....I can say that here right?

Everyone:We already know you dork.

Jael:I was just making sure! Adam Taurus is my dad. I like fishing, training, and one day I hope I can make a world where I can tell people who my dad is without being afraid. I’m not ashamed to say I that love my dad and cherish the family I’m growing up in. I couldn’t ask for a better one. *gets hugged*

Jacquelyn:Aaaaawwwww my adorable little baby goat!

Jael:Stop squeezing!!!!! Can’t....breathe!

xxx

Nick:Okay it’s time for the coolest universe; pun absolutely intended. The name is Nicholas Schnee; yes I was named after my great grandfather. Eldest child of Weiss Schnee and Jaune Arc; heir time the SDC one day. Despite that that however, I’m pretty laid back and happy to be here with my twin sister. Looking forward to keep learning about all of you. You’re up sis!

Summer:Me!? Oh, well......what is there really to say hehe. I’m Summer Schnee, named after my aunt Ruby’s mother. Just so happens I am the younger twin by a couple of minutes which I will hear about my entire life. Anything warm and sweet tends to keep me in a good mood and I’m not a big fan of the cold; I hate it actually. Don’t mind me much, I’m sort of along for the ride. That being said, I never mind a casual conversation. Also I like singing and a few sports.

Valerie:*laying down* Is it my turn yet?

Summer:Yes it’s your turn Val.

Valerie:Kay, *sits up* I’m Valerie Valkyrie, some people call me Val and I have no problem being everyone’s pal because I’m that type of gal!

*multiples groans*

Tenzen:I want a redo on mine.

Valerie:Much like my fellow carrots top, my parents are Ren and Nora. Just in case the amazing face or insanely confident attitude went over your head. You ever need someone to raise a little chaos then I’m done for a good time.

xxx

Lucas:Salutations, I’m Blake and Jaune’s kid. I go by Lucas Belladonna and I’m a pretty straight forward guy. Not really a social butterfly unlike the most of you here but I can hold a conversation. Usually I keep to myself and just let the hours drift by.

Valerie:That must be boring.

Lucas:Not when you know how to sit still.

Valerie:Touché.....

xxx

Carmine:*clears throat* Somehow I ended up last but that’s fine. As you all know by now, my name is Carmine Arc Rose.

Yujin and Summer:Hi Carmine!!!!

Carmine:*chuckles* Hello Yujin and Summer. I also enjoy singing; usually lullabies to my brother Garnet. Not a people person so friends aren’t something I can say I really have but that’s by me. I’ve been fortunate enough to have the guidance of many amazing people like you all I assume. Jaune Arc and Ruby Rose to name a couple. I like gardening and improving my skills constantly; a fight is where I’m truly the best version of myself. That and tucking Garnet into bed. As far as my dislikes go.... I guess it really comes down to awful people doing awful things.

Jacquelyn:Care to elaborate?

Carmine:I would if you didn’t already know exactly what I mean.

Jacquelyn:*nods* Interesting, we should go at it sometime. Test that metal of yours.

Carmine:One day, but not today. Don’t die in your world until then.

Jacquelyn:The feeling is mutual.

Everyone else:.........

Tenzen:Anyone else hear boss music?

Everyone else:Yes!

Across the Road, At the Brothel

Chapter Two

Summary: Jaskier fell in love any day that the sun rose in the East. It was a trifling, pleasurable experience for him. Even when he was jumping out a window to avoid cuckolded husbands. So what happens when his trifles start to become more significant? Jaskier/OC. Some Yennefer/Geralt

A/N: Jaskier is just too adorable not to write about. This is a relationship development story with an OC. There will be smut in later chapters and plenty of angst.

Rating: Mature

Or Dove...It was the low murmur of voices and the rather ominous thunking of feet on floorboards that woke Jaskier. For a dull moment, he thought Geralt had returned from... wherever the fuck he had flitted off to. To be honest, he hadn't paid much attention. After three weeks without a bed, a bath, or a decent meal for that matter – despite what Geralt thought he was not a culinary wizard – Jaskier had been far more focused on enjoying the simple pleasures of which he had been deprived and those pleasures did not include traipsing back out into the wild to find some Gods forsaken creature that could, quite possibly, rend him limb from bloody limb.

Opening blurry eyes, he cast about the room for the hulking form of his friend and frowned when he saw no one. It took longer than he would like to admit before he realized that the noise he was hearing was coming from outside his room. Sitting up, his head pulsed with a faint pain and he groaned, quietly remembering the amount of wine he had imbued the night before. He had to hand it to the Toussaint province when they set out to make wine. They made bloody good wine.

A soft yawn unfurled from his lips and he squinted almost peevishly at the light shining in through the window. It had to be a little before midday, his late-night had ensured that he had most certainly missed breakfast. Biting back another yawn, Jaskier slowly went about his usual morning ablutions. He had to admit it was rather nice not to have a pair of golden eyes silently observing his usual rituals, also a little lonely, but that was not something he wanted to dwell on too closely. He and Geralt had basically been living in each other's pockets lately, time apart was more than needed. And yet...

Jaskier sighed quietly as he finished dressing and headed for the door. He supposed that it was time for him to resurface to reality and sniff out whatever it was that had his companion traipsing through wine country. Hopefully, it was a search for a good bottle of Bordeaux, though unlikely. It didn't take long for him to find the inn empty of its keeper as he made his way outside, his stomach rumbling. The first point of order was to track down some food before he went in search of information. It was still a tad early for a midday meal, but he was sure he could find something at the local markets to nibble on.

...Well, market was a strong term he supposed as he looked about.

While Glynedol was not exactly a one-road town, it came rather close. It seemed the road that he and Geralt had come in on was the main road through the town. It had the inn, the tavern, and the brothel all within a few metres of each other. It looked like there was an apothecary not too far down, as well as a cobbler and smithy a little further from that. His stomach twisted with a faint nauseous hunger and Jaskier had to wonder why he hadn't seen any stalls set up for traders. It was harvest season, after all. Usually, vendors would be selling their wares at any small spit such as this little town. Frowning, he glanced about and realized that there weren't many people about either. He could understand most working the fields of their farms for the last bits of produce before autumn, but surely it was getting late enough and certainly warm enough in the day for more to be taking a break and heading into the local watering hole for a respite. It was all a bit... odd.

"Nigel, you can't keep doing this. Not with winter on the way."

Jaskier perked up as a familiar voice caught his attention. The barmaid. Lyrra. She might be willing to guide him about. His eyes quickly scanned the sides of the road but saw neither hide nor hair of her.

A low rumble seemed to answer her back and Jaskier found himself detouring down a side alley by the brothel. He turned a corner and found his lovely maiden knelt down before a slovenly mess of a man. With her back to him, he silently took in her form. Gone was the headscarf she had wrapped around her head the night prior and he could see luscious chestnut hair tethered in a loose braid. The loose frock and apron she wore as she had worked were replaced by a more form-fitting dress. It was simple in style, but he found he far preferred it to her other ensemble.

"What would Mae say if she saw you now?" Lyrra murmured softly as she tried to coax the man slumped against the wall to stand.

The man's hazy green eyes landed on Jaskier and the bard could tell that the man was drunker than a skunk. Still, he had enough wherewithal to nod at him, "Who's 'e?"

"Wh-?" Lyrra started to ask as she turned, obviously expecting no one as her soft grey eyes widen at the sight of Jaskier. She frowned slightly at him before plastering on a soft smile for the drunkard, "He's a bard. One that has a future as a thief with the way he sneaks about."

"I don't know if I'm offended or flattered by that comment." Jaskier muttered thoughtfully as he stepped up next to her, "Do I not get an introduction, as well?"

A flash of exasperation crossed her features and he hid a smile as she gestured down to her friend, "Jaskier, this is Nigel. Nigel, Jaskier. We'll be on our way now."

Jaskier smirked at her none too subtle hint to go away and glanced at Nigel. He wrinkled his nose and hummed, "Hmmm, will you though?"

Lyrra frowned and looked to see that Nigel had passed out during her introduction. A sigh of weariness escaped her as she knelt again to shake her friend awake with little luck. Jaskier raised a brow at her efforts, "Oh, leave him here, Lyrra. He can sleep it off in the alley just as easily a bed."

"He's been out here all night." She mumbled, her disapproving tone matching the glare she threw over her shoulder at him.

He shrugged, "And somehow he's been left alone... well, till you came along that is. Besides, he'll probably regret the state he is in now more if he were to wake up in a filthy alley than if he were to wake in a warm bed. Less likely for a repeat performance this way."

"That's rather unlikely." Lyrra uttered quietly as she patted the man's cheek, "Come on, Nigel. Just a few minutes and you can sleep again, dove."

"Always been my experience." Jaskier stated blandly as he continued to watch.

"And has it been your experience to drink yourself dumb to ease the pain of your wife's passing?" Lyrra questioned echoing his tone as she stood to face him, "Somehow, I think grief wins over discomfort."

"Ahh." Jaskier's amusement at the situation dropped as a tendril of remorse curled in his gut. Pity flared to life in his heart for the stranger as he resisted the urge to squirm under Lyrra's indifferent gaze. He sighed, "All right."

Jaskier quickly took up Lyrra's previous position before the grieving widower. His hand reached out and quickly found the hollow above the man's collar bone before pressing in and curling his finger over the bone with a decent amount of force. Nigel spasmed and jerked awake from the attack on his pressure point, green eyes wide in betrayed bafflement. Jaskier found he couldn't blame him for that look. Geralt had used that particular move on him enough that he was familiar with the sensation that had shot through Nigel's body. It wasn't exactly painful, but it was definitely not pleasurable. Quickly before Nigel had a chance to gather his bearings to slip back off again, Jaskier tugged his arm up and over his shoulders forcing the drunk to stand.

"Don't you dare throw up on me." The bard threatened with a wince as he finally caught wind of the noxious fumes of alcohol coming off the other man's body. Gods, if he hadn't fucking smelled last night, he surely did now. All this on an empty stomach too. He raised an expectant brow as Lyrra gawked at him, "Where to?"

She started slightly and waved a hand down the alley, "This way."

Jaskier grunted softly, channeling his inner Geralt as he half dragged Nigel down the alley. To his surprise, it really wasn't terribly far before they stopped again. He had been prepared to go a few blocks at least. Not less than fifteen metres or so. He was sure his brows were touching his hairline as he realized what door they were stopped in front of, "He's drunker than a fish in an ocean and you want to leave him in a brothel? I don't know if this man will love you or hate you for that."

A light flush suddenly coated her cheeks as she looked away embarrassed but still, she knocked at the wooden door. A second later the entry was thrown open and a stern older woman peered out. Jaskier tried not to cringe under her heavy stare, even as he quirked a small grin at her. It was a wonder this place got any business if men had to go through that battleaxe of a woman. Yet the moment she laid eyes on Lyrra she softened before peering more intently at the form now dangling into Jaskier's side.

"Again?"

Lyrra nodded quietly and the older woman sighed, "Come on, then."

She stepped aside and began to cluck like an old mother hen. Jaskier listened passively as she pestered Lyrra about being too kindhearted and reiterated a variant of what he had suggested earlier. Leave Nigel to whatever bed he made, essentially. As the drunk began to weigh more heavily on his shoulders, Jaskier was silently inclined to agree. In his periphery, he could see women in various states of undress as they moved down a hall lined with doors. Most ignored the small group, while a few waved at Lyrra and offered a sympathetic smile. He was sure it was the first time in his life he had ever been so soundly ignored by a group of whores. He itched with the desire to check his pockets and make sure his coin hadn't been lifted without his notice.

" 'Ere we are. Jus lay 'im on the bed, luv." The matron said stoutly with a nod forward.

Jaskier basically dropped the man once he was close enough and breathed a quiet sigh of relief at the sudden lack of weight.

"We got 'im now petal. Don't ya worry none."

Jaskier turned in time to catch Lyrra's grateful smile and the subtle palming of a few coins before he fell under the matron's stern glare. A ribald comment was poised on the tip of his tongue when he suddenly felt delicate fingers tugging him away and back outside. He eyed the woman before him with renewed curiosity, "Well, that was an adventure. You're welcome by the way."

Lyrra paused and gazed at him uncertainly for a moment before she offered him a rueful smile, "Thank you for helping."

Jaskier smiled faintly, "Yes, well who am I to deny a damsel in distress?"

He swore she rolled her eyes though her smile never diminished. She caught him by surprise though as she tilted her head curiously at him, "You seem to be coming to my rescue quite a bit it seems."

"Oh?" Jaskier questioned in confusion. His mind raced as he tried to place what other time he had come to her aid.

"Hillard told me you chased out the man who propositioned me last night." She reminded him quietly.

It was his turn to blush, as he felt an unfamiliar heat creep into his cheeks, "Oh er um... Your barkeep saw that, did he?"

Lyrra nodded, "He said you gave him a good laugh."

Well, that was something at least, Jaskier thought woefully, though silently relieved that his childish antics hadn't brought him scorn from either the lady or the barkeep.

"Though I do have to ask. Are you following me?"

Jaskier blinked and smirked, "Why? Do you want me to go? You wound me so, lovely Lyrra. Your attentions are rather hard-won. Especially, after lugging a man down an alley for you."

His eyes twinkled mischievously as she blushed and lightly scowled at him. It was fun to get a reaction from her. She shook her head in exasperation or amusement he wasn't sure which, perhaps both as she replied, "That wasn't what I meant and you know it. The tavern was one thing. I work at the Rose and Pine and you happened to be performing there. But now...?"

In truth, he hadn't been looking for her. He hadn't given her much thought beyond a trifling disappointment at a potential tryst thwarted and an interesting conversation lost. Though the conversation part had been regained it seemed. Yet, he could give her a more playful charming answer, "This morning more like for some of us. When I heard your voice dance across the air, I couldn't help but follow its lead. Much like following a siren's call."

"... You use such pretty words." She surprised him again when he caught the disappointment seeping in her grey orbs like storm clouds. She fixed that polite smile he had received before... the one he had noticed she gave to overly-friendly, but strange customers. It was like seeing a physical manifestation of Geralt's silent glare that said he was now merely tolerating whoever was before him. Usually, it was Jaskier.

"Huh. I – I don't think I've ever heard someone say that like it was an insult before." He murmured with a furrowed brow, feeling like he was losing his grip on...on something.

Lyrra shrugged indifferently, "So what were you really doing this morning then?"

Jaskier stared as he realized that it wasn't that he was losing his grip, but that she could see through his bullshit. Bollocks, "I was looking for some food. An apple or something to nibble on. Rather surprised there weren't merchants anywhere on the street, actually."

As if realizing it herself, she glanced about the street they were drifting down. A frown tugged at her lips, "It has been strange lately."

Her voice was barely louder than a whispered, but Jaskier still caught her words. Maybe this was why Geralt had been so twitchy. Maybe he had sensed something was off with Glynedol – now Jaskier wished he had paid a little more attention to his friend's brief explanations, "Strange how?"

Lyrra shook her head, "Just quiet. Fewer people. Usually, the town is bustling with activity this time of year...it's hard to explain. Your singing brought in more people to the tavern than I had seen in a while."

"Huh." Jaskier huffed, suddenly at a loss for those pretty words she mentioned earlier. He had no idea of what to make of her information or what it could possibly have to do with Geralt's latest venture.

She seemed to sense this as she touched his elbow and nodded behind her, "Come on, let's get you some food."

"Oh yes, that – that is a golden plan right there, that is." He uttered delightedly before his stomach reaffirmed its starved state with a loud gurgle. She snickered softly and his lips quirked as a sinful comment fell from his lips, "Help me sate my body's hunger, lovely Lyrra."

There was no doubt that she rolled her eyes this time as she led the way back to the tavern.

»»————-　　————-««

"Where is your companion?" Lyrra asked lowly as she placed a small bowl of stew before him.

Once they had entered the Rose and Pine, she had disappeared into the back, only to reappear as she had the previous night. Jaskier had felt mild disappointment at the sight of her work frock and headscarf. While practical, he would rather see her lovely hair falling loose from her braid and skimming the small strip of flesh above the neckline of her other gown than this sack of a monstrosity. He said none of this as he munched slowly on his stew.

After a thoughtful moment and under the pressure of her expectant gaze, he shrugged, "Not terribly sure actually. I was more enamored with finding water for a bath when he departed. I saw Roach stabled at the back of the inn still... He couldn't have gone far."

"Roach?"

"His horse." Jaskier clarified with a hint of envy as he thought of his other defacto traveling companion. Should Geralt ever feel the need to ditch him, Roach's disappearance would be his clue, "Geralt loves that beast more than himself. He wouldn't leave her alone for long."

A soft smile crossed Lyrra's lips at this profession. Quietly, she slid into the seat across from him. It was funny, when he wasn't actively pursuing her attention, she seemed not to mind giving it to him, "What's that look then?"

Lyrra blinked and looked at him questionably, "What look?"

"That smile for Geralt's bestial obsession." Jaskier said with a small grin. Had the Witcher been nearby he would have been smacked upside the head for that little comment.

Lyrra shrugged, "Whether a beast of burden or a furry companion, I think it's rather telling of a person on how they treat their pets. Your Geralt seems to be a decent sort at the very least."

Jaskier snorted in amusement, though he couldn't disagree. For as gruff and sinister and outright bloody rude his friend could be, he was more honest and decent than most, "Yes, he is at the very least decent."

She cast him an indecipherable look and he merely smiled back. Finishing his stew, he took the time to really study her. It had been something of game, the previous night to court her attention. She had flitted about the tavern like she was dancing on wind. Her service was so smooth that he hadn't even noticed her until the incident with the leering scruff. Her handling of it had been just as graceful and if he hadn't been standing behind her at the time, he never would have noticed the man's untoward forwardness.

He wasn't sure what had possessed him to comment on it to her, but then she had turned to him. Her grey orbs had shown like stars shining through stormy skies and he had been captivated. She was pretty. Her beauty understated, but nonetheless present as his interest in her continued to climb. It had also helped that Jaskier had caught the interest in her gaze as well. He knew attraction when he saw it. He had been put off when she hadn't acted on hers, however. As fun as it had been to pull blushes to her unblemished cheeks, he hadn't expected to be so thoroughly stonewalled. Admittedly, her reluctance to have anything to do with him was still rather entertaining.

He wondered distantly if there was a word for finding such abhorrence to his person attractive. He was sure it said something about him at any rate, but that too was not something he wanted to dwell on. Instead, he turned his focus back on Lyrra, "So... barmaid, then?... Um, how did you find yourself in that profession?"

He nearly grimaced at how bumbling that had come out. She stared at him silently for a moment, amusement crinkling at the corner of her eyes before saying so dryly, "Well, queen seemed to be taken and I wasn't much for whoring. You?"

"Same." He uttered amusedly, preening when she smiled in quiet laughter.

She shook her head at him and moved to stand, "I need to start getting ready for the dinner hour. Thank you for your help today, sir bard."

"Jaskier, Lyrra." He corrected, longing to hear her recite his name in a more intimate setting.

She smirked, a faint blush appearing as she threw over her shoulder, "Or dove, right?"

Well, well. He grinned in delight at her parting shot and vowed to get her to spend her spare time with him as the night wore on.

Previous Chapter    Next Chapter

Baldwin Montclair/OC

Chapter Three - De rerum natura

Baldwin passed my notebook to me to review. I looked over my glasses to glance at how much was on the page. I had to assume the translations of the manuscript were accurate. At the bottom of the page he had left me several doodles, one of which was me holding a glass in one hand and what looked like a pair of sunglasses in the other.

           I looked up at him, smiling without humour. “Focus please.” I turned back to my work, gently turning over the next page to reveal another set of beautifully preserved pages.

           “Oh, I am focused,” he said huskily. “Wish I could say the same for you.”

           My heart thudded once, very hard, at the statement. He wasn’t wrong, but I did not want to give him an ounce of satisfaction.

           I had spent ample amounts of the night sneaking glances at where his knee barely touched mine, and how the muscles beneath his trousers twitched each time my palazzo pants brushed up against him. I had caught him glancing up at me also, only once but I could feel his cold gaze once in a while, and he would rub his bottom lip against his teeth as he held my gaze briefly. I’d quickly draw my gaze back to the manuscript.

           We were in a moment of peeking at one another when a knock came at the door.

           I leaned back in my seat, pulling open the door. My colleague, Dr. Henry Ashton, reared his head into the room. His mop of chestnut hair made him look exceptionally boyish, as did his round glasses and casual attire. He insisted in teaching classes in Iron Maiden shirts and Birkenstocks, which set him apart in the department already. It made him fit better with many of the sociology profs, not with the old-school philosophers. He was the youngest, but one of the sharpest professors I had experienced in a long time.

           His smile faded a tad when he spied Baldwin.

           “Oh, Nora, I didn’t realize you had a research aid,” Henry said, rolling the sleeve of his cardigan up absently.

           “He’s no one, just a friend helping me with translation work,” I said, waving in his direction. I practically felt Baldwin bristle at the statement.

           “Could I steal Dr. Germaine? Two secs,” Henry pulled at my blouse gently as I rose. I felt Baldwin’s glare on my back as I shut the door on him.

           Henry turned on me quickly, whispering madly. “Are you crazy?!”

           “Having a translator? Henry it’s just some etymological w-“

           “That’s. Not. The point. He is bad news, Nora. Like bad news bears,” Henry said, tapping my hand with each word to add emphasis. I pulled my hand away, feeling a gentle zap with each point of contact.

           “He’s… Odd. And new. But he has already helped me get back on track with this research. I really appreciate it,” I said, surprising myself at coming to this man’s defense.

           Henry bit into his thumbnail. “How often have you seen him around? Like has he shown up at your office, or your grocery store? Seen you at the gym?”

           I sighed. “I forgot to tell you; my leg has been acting up again. My physio said no gym for a while,” I said, putting my hands in my pockets. “Anyway, no, not really. He spoke to me about my studies last time I was in to work with the primaries, and that’s how it came up that he was a translator.”

           I felt bad for lying, but really, Henry was over reacting.

           Henry glared at me, knowing I was not being truthful with him. I didn’t think it good to be an effective liar, but life had made me into someone regrettably well-versed in twisting the truth. Henry managed to call me out, even in a flustered state.

           “You should know you can’t lie to me. Why would you try? He’s basically stalking you, isn’t he?”, Henry snapped at me, and I felt my hair float with static. “You fucked your leg again, and now this… Man is coming around like you’re a wounded deer. Listen to my reasoning!”

           I crossed my arms, growing agitated from his anger. “Henry, I am fine. I can deal with one guy.”

           Baldwin chose that moment to open the sliding door. “I think you need to go,” he said coldly to Henry.

           Henry sputtered but couldn’t get out a word as he was dwarfed by Baldwin’s height. He gazed up him defiantly, but with much less of the gusto he had possessed prior to the third party making himself known.

           “Ashton, I really just need to get my work done. I’ll be here for months without aid. Just let it be, please.”

           He looked at me briefly, then adjusted his shoulder bag roughly. “Fine. Just remember I warned you.”

           “Talk to you later?”

           “Not likely. Bye, Nora,” he said gruffly as he walked into the shelves beyond the study rooms.

           I noticed a group of younger students poking their heads around the corner at the scene, one of them quickly ducking away when I looked their way. Drama on floor three was not unheard of when students had become stressed enough, but some of them would surely recognise us as staff. Great.

           I turned on my heel and sat back down at my chair with a huff, trying to appear engrossed in my work yet again.

           Baldwin remained at the door. “…Are you alright?

           “No, I’m bloody well not. What of it?”, I said quietly, bouncing my knee.

           “Well, that was pretty heated. Also, you’re in my seat.” He put a hand where his jacket was across the back of the chair. The seat wasn’t warm considering he had been sitting there only moments before, which was certainly odd. I shrugged and moved the other chair to where he had been sitting.

           He quirked an eyebrow.

           “What?”

           “I think it’s time for supper. Maybe a tall glass of something strong,” he chuckled, taking my sweater from the back of the other chair.

           “I really can’t. I still have-“

           “A deadline, yes, but you should never work this stressed. We can come right back, monk’s honour,” Baldwin was practically trying to lift me by my armpits as I swatted him away, taking my sweater from him and shrugging reluctantly.

           “I feel like you’re constantly getting me to eat,” I say, shutting off the light to the study room as we leave.

           He chuckles as he locks the door and hands me the tiny key. “Someone has to. You would certainly waste away attended to your tomes like you do.”

           “A true aesthetic, am I,” I snorted bitterly. Considering I lived off of scones and caffeine and had admittedly been eying the (annoying) redhead that had become my companion I was certainly anything but.

           As if reading my mind, said redhead grinned wickedly. “You truly are Anthony of the Desert.”

           “Oh, Jesus H Christ, I hate that,” I chuckled a little too girlishly. I frowned at the thought of Baldwin growing on me in just a few hours of working together.

Turns out getting me to drink something strong hadn’t taken much work. Baldwin had been rather surprised at my choice of the café around the corner from the university, one that served a broad selection of both vegan dishes and Argentinian wines. Such was the way when providing for a campus of young academics.

           We walked into the café just after the evening rush had left, a barista welcoming us as she bussed tables.

           “Sit wherever you like, love,” the barista called, totting an oval full of dishes away to the kitchen.

           “After you,” Baldwin said, putting out an arm toward the front where overstuffed leather chairs sat by the large windows. It was still warm enough outside that the wrap around porch was still filled with patrons, and so inside was the best for a semi-private dining experience. I had often eaten there out of convenience during times that the only places to put a drink or plate was a stand-alone bar meant for leaning rather than sitting.

           I crossed my legs as I sat, a motion I did not miss his eyes following the movement as he sat down gracefully across the squat table from me.

           “This is certainly not what I expected from what you told me. You are certain they sell decent vintages here, not just Strawberry Hill and whatnot?”

           “Hey, you shouldn’t mock Boons, it has a place in the hearts of many broke students,” I said, flipping idly through the menu as if I did not know what I would be getting. “Should we just get a charcutier to start? They have two different ones to choose.”

           He hummed a yes to that, eyes quickly scanning the menu. “They don’t have anything older than 2008,” he said, resting his head against his fist like a frustrated toddler.

           I tilted my head. “Well golly, milord, what shall we do?”

           He frowned at that, to which I allowed myself a grin.

           I looked out the window at just the right moment to see Henry walking quickly past on the opposite side of the street. My stomach turned and I slouched in the seat.

           “He probably hates me,” I thought, regretted the odd interaction with my friend. He was usually so level-headed and understanding, certainly already becoming a father figure despite his recent introduction to nurturing undergraduates. I caught Baldwin’s gaze just as the server came to our table, cutting off what interaction may have occurred in that moment.

           “What can I get y’all,” the server asked, pen and paper in hand.

Fan Made Injustice/MKX Style Intros 1:

Intros/Clashes: Ruby Rose/Supergirl Battle Introduction 1: Ruby: What kind of weapon do you have? Supergril: I don’t need one. Ruby: Awww. I got excited. Battle Introduction 2: Supergirl: Aren’t you a bit young? Ruby: You can fly!? Supergirl: Yep. To young. Battle Introduction 3: Ruby: Why did your cousin do this? Supergirl: I don’t know. Ruby: Do you do the same? Clash 1: Ruby: You’re pretty fast! Supergirl: Thanks? Clash 2: Superfirl: You’re pretty strong for your age. Ruby: Yeppers! Korra/Raven Battle Introduction 1: Korra: I took on Vaatu you should be easy. Raven: That weak thing was nothing. Korra: And here I thought you had no emotions. Battle Introduction 2: Raven: I sense great spiritual energy within you. Korra: Other news: Water is wet. Raven: That is irrelevant. Battle Introduction 3: Korra: I sense something very dark in you. Raven: Pray you never see it. Korra: Could be a fun fight. Clash 1: Korra: You’re much stronger than Vaatu. Raven: That’s because I am a demon. Clash 2: Raven: Weak spirit. Korra: You haven’t seen anything yet. Noctis/Batman Battle Introduction 1: Noctis: What’s with the get up? Batman: It’s armor. Noctis: Looks stupid. Battle Introduction 2: Batman: I lost my parents to. Noctis: Your father didn’t wave you off with a smile knowing he was going to die. Batman: No. But that anger consumed me. Battle Introduction 3: Noctis: You live in darkness? Batman: No. I was re-forged in darkness. Noctis: Ardyn says the damn same. Clash 1: Noctis: You’re done for. Batman: Prove it. Clash 2: Batman: Powers or not. I’m more skilled. Noctis: Tch. Yet I’m still standing. Cecada/Green Arrow Battle Introduction 1: Cecada: I’m fast enough to deflect bullets. Green Arrow: You sure it’s not the blade? Cecada: Fair point. Battle Introduction 2: Green Arrow: My what a big sword you have. Cecada: All the better to hit you with my dear. Green Arrow: Ah fairy tale jokes from the big bad wolf. I love it. Battle Introduction 3: Cecada: How much do you weigh? Green Arrow: That’s a rude question. Why? Cecada: I’m willing to bet my sword weighs more. Clash 1: Cecada: You’re a much better shot then Cinder. Green Arrow: Uh. Thanks? Clash 2: Greem Arrow: You compensating for something? Cecada: Heh. That’s kinda funny. Cecada/Korra Battle Introduction 1: Cecada: All four elements? That’s interesting. Korra: Yep. Been that way since the Avatar cycle started. Cecada: Show me how you fight then. Battle Introduction 2: Korra: *Whistles* That’s a big sword. Cecada: Almost as big as your mouth. Korra: Oh, I’m going to hurt you for that one. Battle Introduction 3: Cecada: Velvet wants a double date with you and Asami. Korra: Oh, I think Asami would love to meet her. Cecada: Then lets end this quickly. Clash 1: Cecada: Seems you can’t bend dust. Korra: Blah blah keep fighting. Clash 2: Korra: Getting tired. Cecada: Can you lift a 300 pound sword? Cecada/Sub-Zero Battle Introductions 1: Cecada: The power coming off you is insane. Sub-Zero: My magic is more powerful than any of your maidens. Cecada: Yet I sense fear in your voice. Battle Introductions 2: Sub-Zero: You should flee this encounter. Cecada: I refused to back down against Adam, I will not back down here. Sub-Zero: You have a warrior’s heart. Battle Introductions 3: Cecada: How could I know your clan aren't villains or heroes? Sub-Zero: I will not lie. We have been both. Cecada: My friends comes first. So the answer is no. Clash 1: Cecada: It’s been awhile since I’ve had to work so hard. Sub-Zero: You are indeed worthy. Clash 2: Sub-Zero: A calm head in battle is hard to find. Cecada: Emotions get in the way when fighting. Altus Du Froid/Damian Wayne. Battle Introduction 1: Altus: Someone has severe daddy issues. Damian: You don’t know a damn thing. Altus: I would beg to differ. Battle Introduction 2: Damian: I don’t get you. Altus: What is there to understand? Damian: You go from sarcastic to cold hearted in a split second. Battle Introduction 3: Altus: You’re more like a blue jay than a robin. Damian: It’s a title not a name. Altus: You use others to get what you want. Clash 1: Altus: All this death. Damian: I’m just getting started. Clash 2: Damian: Your focus is cracking. Altus: Yet you seem afraid. Blue Scale Agate/The Drowned Battle Introduction 1: Blue Scale Agate: Drowned the world for vengeance? The Drowned: It’s all it deserved. Blue Scale Agate: No. You’re just pathetic, human. Battle Introduction 2: The Drowned: I’ve killed many. But never one like you. Blue Scale Agate: Unless you have millions of years of experience, I doubt that will change. The Drowned: Do not underestimate the dead waters. Battle Introduction 3: Blue Scale Agate: You and the other ‘Knights’ are marked for death. The Drowned: I would like to see you try and kill us. Blue Scale Agate: There won’t be a ‘try.’ I will kill you. Clash 1: Blue Scale Agate: Pathetic. The Drowned: Die! Clash 2: The Drowned: You’ll make an excellent pet. Blue Scale Agate: I’ll die first.

Yang Xiao Long/Black Canary Battle Introduction 1: Yang: We have a lot in common. Black Canary: Blonde hair, good looks and a killer right hook. Yang: And a never back down attitude. Battle Introduction 2: Black Canary: I’m going to have to hit you for that. Yang: What? I just asked if you wanted a ‘Yangin’ good time. Black Canary: Thanks for making it even easier to hit you. Battle Introduction 3: Yang: What can you do? Black Canary: Why don’t you come here so I can whisper it to you. Yang: And people say I have a big ego. Clash 1: Yang: The more you hit me, the stronger I get. Black Canary: Yet you’re sweating. Clash 2: Black Canary: Not bad kid. Yang: I’m just getting warmed up. Cecada/ Wonder Woman. Battle Introduction 1: Cecada: Another tyrant to beat down. Wonder Woman: The world needed steel not compassion. Cecada: Your mother would disagree. Battle Introduction 2: Wonder Woman: Batman sends a child against me? Cecada: Trust me. I’m no child. Wonder Woman: I almost believe you. Battle Introduction 3: Cecada: How do you live with yourself? Wonder Woman: I have no regrets. Cecada: There’s no coming back then. Clash 1: Cecada: Predictable tactics. Wonder Woman: I’ve only just started. Clash 2: Wonder Woman: We could’ve used a man like you. Cecada: I served once. Never again Connor Arcadia/Talia Al Ghul Battle Introduction 1: Connor Arcadia: Your father is a monster. You know that, right? Talia: He seeks to bring peace the world. Connor Arcadia: Sure. And I hunt down kittens for a living. Battle Introduction 2: Talia: I hear you’re very skilled hunter. Connor Arcadia: Just ask all the monsters that are dead. Talia: Too bad that old fool Ozpin found you first. Battle Introduction 3: Connor Arcadia: I agree with killing certain criminals. Talia: Certain? You would spare the guilty? Connor Arcadia: Many criminals are victims of circumstance. Not a vile soul. Clash 1: Connor Arcadia: And here I though Ra’s taught you better. Talia: Don’t belittle my father. Clash 2: Talia: You should join us. Connor Arcadia: Please. I like my boss. He doesn’t make me wear pants. Connor Arcadia/Ra’s Al Ghul Battle Introduction 1: Connor Arcadia: How the hell have you not gotten bored? Ra’s: What, pray tell, are you referring to? Connor Arcadia: Five hundred plus years. You can’t tell me you haven’t gotten bored. Battle Introduction 2: Ra’s: Only your maiden’s power could end me. Connor Arcadia: There are allot of dead things that would argue with you. Ra’s: Show me what you can do then, hunter. Battle Introduction 3: Ra’s: I think you would make an excellent successor. Connor Arcadia: Don’t you have a hard on for Batman or something? Ra’s: I… What? Clash 1: Connor Arcadia: I’ll make sure to drop you in some acid. Ra’s: This is far from over fool. Clash 2: Ra’s: I will beat you huntsmen. Connor Arcadia: Oh no. What ever will I do? Asami/Damian Battle Introduction 1: Asami: Your father is a hero. Damian: Don’t pretend to know me. Asami: Oh, but I think I do brat. Battle Introduction 2: Damian: You criticize me? Your father was a criminal. Asami: Maybe. But he redeemed himself in the end. Damian: Starry eyed. Just like Dick was. Battle Introduction 3: Asami: How could you kill your brother? Damian: It was an accident. I didn’t want to. Asami: Your arrogance killed him. Clash 1: Asami: Bet you didn’t expect me to be this skilled. Damian: Shut up and fight. Clash 2: Damian: You’re going down. Asami: Don’t assume anything. (A/n: I’ve been writing these to try and break my writer’s block faster. For those who may not know, in Injustice 2 and Mortal Kombat X they added intros ebtween characters before fights. SO I tried my hand at them accept I won’t be restricting franchises and my OCs are added to. XD Hope these help while I’m absenet and here’s hoping they help me get put of my writer’s block.) P.S: Also in Injustice Superman, Wonder Woman, Cyborg and Raven turned into dictators so that’s why they’re evil. I know fighting games aren’t for everyone so you may not know but that’s why some characters will treat them as villains.