SHE IS SO FATHER AAAAAAAAAAAAAA

My (probably unfinished) official list of everything I love about the trailer💫

- "How's it going :))-" SWERVED. ALEXANDER CLAREMONT-DIAZ GOT FUCKING S W E R V E D-

- Nora looks like she's going to stab Alex with her high heel. Also she's so pretty. Xjakcjd

- "you've done some pretty stupid things in your life, but this-" "Takes the cake? :DD-"

- The way Henry looks at them when they're lying on the floor covered in cake. It's like he's restraining himself from strangling Alex with his own suit jacket for the sole purpose of not worsening the scandal.

- "HENRY. SHOVED. ME.😡🥺" "An urge I currently share."

- Ellen in her pantsuit.. hey Ellen👉👈

- Alex is looking for ways to escape the room when she says the words "damage control" he fucking knows-

- THEY. GOT. LIL NAS X. ON THE FUCKING SOUND TRACK. Oh I p r a y they got the rights to Get Low I p r a y.

- ALEX'S FACE WHILE ZAHRA IS BRIEFING HIM HES SO DRAMATIC

- Im sorry guys henry is so fine alexander isnt going to be the only one thirsting over henry for the entire 2 hours/jjj

- That FUCKING handshake in the park. I can see the veins in their hands they are g r i p p i n g-

- these faces this is a point.

- "My NDA is bigger than yours, I want you to know that." "You're wearing Lifts. I know that too, sweetheart." -H e a d t u r n--- HES SO FLOORED FJSNF-

- HENRY'S LITTLE MOUTH QUIRK AFTER HE SAYS THAT

- I CAN SEE THE KEY NECKLACE. I CAN S E E IT BLESS THE COSTUME DEPARTMENT SHOVING HIM IN A LOWCUT SHIRT-

- "You better act like the sun shines out of his ass and you have a vitamin D deficiency" ZAHRA HAS THE BEST LINES AND ITS WHAT SHE DESERVES.

- Alex faffing about with his hair via his phone camera before the interview thats my b O Y-

- Henry slides over the box of cornettos so hard like thats the only hostile act hes allowed to parttake in

- To the person who theorized in the comments of one of my posts that Alex was going to do a little shoulder punch in the interview scene i am going to draw you a little firstprince fanart-/hj

- Because that was so funny and so fucking cute henrys fucking face through that whole interaction was just. He looks like he's actively trying to dissociate from the situation fjsjfj-

- The cancer ward🥺🥺

- Alex's u g l y ass suit at the new years gala... its such a gross jacket guys Im sorry this is what happens when you dont have jUNE TO MICROMANAGE HIS WARDROBE-

- Alex putting his arm around Henry and Henry smiling to himself because he's probably got the most insane case of butterflies

- I'm marrying the lighting director of this movie.

- GUYS GUYS SHUT UP ITS THE KISS.

- HENRY'S FACE BEFORE HE GIVES THE "Christ, you are as thick as it gets" LINE IS SO FUNNY. QUESTIONING WHY HE EVER WENT AND FELL IN LOVE WITH A DUMBASS

- THEY D O N T KISS LIKE THEYD RATHER GO DOWN A RAZOR WATERSLIDE🎉🎉🎉🎉💫💞💞🏳️‍🌈/GEN

- He does Henry's "Oh shit" face so w e l l-

- ALEX'S STETSON EVERYONE GET AWAY FROM ME

- KARAOKE SCENE KARAOKE SCENE I SEE HENRY AT THE MICROPHONE

- Guys hes g o i n g to do the thing he does with the bottle I just know it oh my god

- "Get O V E R yourself your majesty -p i l l o w-" "It's your royal HIGHNESS -p i l l o w-" "OHoho-"

- The polo match sjsjf. Same alwx-/J

- The little new voters goal thingy poster thats so cute actually-

- The pride flag in the back of the campaign office

- Henry texting while he's getting the royal preening sjcj

- never thought id cry just hearing henry say he misses alex out loud-

- THEYRE NOT SANITIZING IT TO MAKE IT PALATABLE/POS

- HENRY IN THE CLOSET I AM GOING TO SCREAM-

- "If anyone sees you leave this hotel I will brexit your head from your body....... Your royal highness." I LOVE HERRRRRR

- IF YOU FEEL FOREVER ABOUT HIM. AND THE AND THE PANNING TO THEM IN BED WITH THE SOFT LAMP LIGHT. AND THEYRE SO SOFT. AND AND AND AND. UEUE

- "Do you love him?" "What difference would it make if I did?"

- Bea's voice is so pretty sobs..

- It's always the blond autistic boys in the blue hoodies I swear to god/lh

- Theyre just chilling in their robes🥺🥺🥺

- DAVID!!!!!!!😭😭😭💞

- "Prince Henry belongs to Britain" and what if i sobbed.

- THEM HOLDING HANDS SOMEBODY SEDATE ME.

- NO SHUT UP NO GO AWAY HENRY CRYING... I TRUST HIM WITH HENRY'S HEAVIER SCENES NOW

- THEYRE AT THE LAKEHOUSE😭😭😭

- "It's like there's a rope attached to my chest and it keeps pulling me towards you"

- THE ASS GRAB. ALEXANDER GABRIEL CLAREMONT-DIAZ

- "The night is young, ma✨" <- said as if he isn't currently groping the prince of England's ass

- She sees right fucking through him sjcjsj

CONCLUSION: I will eat my hat. The movie looks really really really fucking good, it looks spectacular and I am so excited for it. I trust them. I'm only SLIGHTLY mad they barely had Nora in it and I'm only SLIGHTLY bitter at cutting June and Luna. But I am an optimist and I will focus on the good which is that they're doing the characters incredible justice, and if I see one person try to deny their chemistry I will A Clockwork Orange their ass to this trailer for days. Because That Is Alex and Henry. That's them in front of my eyes and I think they're in very good hands and this is the most coherent thing I can write I'm still crying-/srs

tag yourself as one of my fav album

p l e a s e p l e a s e m e (by the beatles)

old-school discos; throwing balloons full of water from the window; flower dress; buying vinyl with «f» (fair) form; partner’s warm jacket on a cold summer night; cherry coca cola; playful kisses on the cheeks;

m y g e n e r a t i o n (by the who)

disputing only in cases when you’re right (you are right always); nighttime cheats; shabby jeans; strong scented perfume; adults’ misunderstanding; tousled hair; imposing gait; funny nicknames;

d e f i n i t e l y m a y b e (by oasis)

using too complicated metaphors; cold orange juice; sunny rays; determination for life; listening to music late night and looking at the ceiling; buying concert tickets on the last moment; baggy clothes; secretly reading a textbook on philosophy; «live like a storm or don't live at all»;

s h e e r h e a r t a t t a c k (by queen)

bright red lipstick; going to the cinema for late sessions; photos similar to arts; red roses in a baroque vase; kissing back of the hand as hello and goodbye; doing instagram account in bohemian style;

p a r a c h u t e s (by coldplay)

crumpled sheets from a notebook with lyrics; warmth concentrated in the fingertips; sad and peaceful feels at the same time; special part of youth; hugging yourself; cotton t-shirt on the naked body; drawing little stars on hands;

o d e s s e y a n d o r a c l e (by the zombies)

scary enthusiasm of myths and history; reading «hamlet» before sleeping and thinking he’s (hamlet) is emo for real; mirror grimacing; unobtrusive sarcasm that permeates everything; dress shoes with heels; quite casually being indescribably attractive; complicated jokes; colorful posters on the walls;

u n i v e r s e (by exo)

smell of homemade biscuits; listening to rock ballads for peace of mind; catching snow in the mouth; hands reddened with cold; neutral suits; unconsciously play the same melody on the piano; look at pictures taken in space; flickering fire from a candle; remember the color of the eyes of loved ones.

NSFW Alphabet - Miles Strasburg

(screencap is my own)

Soooo, I spent the weekend watching the Darrow & Darrow movies, and fell head over heels for Miles...which resulted in this. I’m not sorry.

Warnings for a whole lot of smutty headcanons

A = Aftercare (What they’re like after sex)

Miles is practical. If there’s no water by the bed (or wherever you happened to do it), he’ll go get some. His priority is making sure you stay hydrated. Miles is also a snuggler. After sex, he’ll want to cuddle for as long as you both possibly can. He likes when you lay with your head on his chest or when he can spoon you from behind. As long as there’s a lot of skin to skin contact, and he gets to touch you and tell you how amazing you were, he’s happy.

B = Body Part (Their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

Miles loves his hands, mostly because you love them. He knows that you love how big they are, how long his fingers are, and he loves what they can do to you. As for you, Miles knows it’s a cliché, but he loves your smile. He loves your bright smile that can cheer up the worst day, loves your sleepy morning smile, loves the bedroom smile you give him to let him know just how much you want him, loves the soft, sated smile you wear after. Just everything about your smile. 

C = Cum (Anything to do with cum basically… I’m a disgusting person)

Back to being practical, Miles is gonna keep it wrapped up, even if you’ve been together for a long time, and probably won’t even think about going without a condom until you bring it up. Which means that nine times out of ten, cum doesn’t really get involved. That being said, with some encouragement from you, he does occasionally enjoy cumming on your stomach and chest. 

D = Dirty Secret (Pretty self-explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

Miles really wants to fuck you in his office. He thinks about it a lot. He wants to sweep everything to the floor, lay you back on the wood, and absolutely make a mess of you. He’d start by going down you, forcing you to bite down on his tie to stifle your moans, then he’d fuck you. He’d take away his tie, instead kissing you to swallow down both of your noises. And afterwards, if someone mentions a damp patch on his tie? Just some grape soda.

E = Experience (How experienced are they? Do they know what they’re doing?)

Miles doesn’t have the most notches on his bed post, but he’s not inexperienced either. He had his share of encounters during Law school and his first few years of being a lawyer. He’s had a lot less since his wife passed, only really having a couple of partners. He’s far from rusty though, and he’s a quick learner...

F = Favorite Position (This goes without saying. Will probably include a visual)

Miles isn’t afraid to shake it up, but he’s a bit of a traditionalist. He likes to keep it simple and stick to missionary. He loves being able to look into your eyes and kiss you at whim, and enjoys feeling your chest heaving under his own. Mostly, he just loves that he can pin your hands to the bed with his own (something he knows also drives you wild.)

G = Goofy (Are they more serious in the moment, or are they humorous, etc)

Though he’s been known to be serious on occasion, usually Miles is pretty goofy. In fact, he thinks that if you’re not having some fun during the act, it’s being done wrong, and you’re breathless giggles that he turns into moans, drives him wild.

H = Hair (How well groomed are they, does the carpet match the drapes, etc.)

Miles has never really thought about grooming down there too much, especially when he’s out of a relationship. However, when the two of you start getting serious, and sex comes onto the table, he does keep it trimmed and tidy.

I = Intimacy (How are they during the moment, romantic aspect…)

Miles loves to be intimate and romantic. Given time, he enjoys setting the scene. One time you came home to find the bed covered in rose petals, and candles lighting the room. Miles spent the night making love to you, and it was probably the best sex you’d ever had.

J = Jack Off (Masturbation headcanon)

In the early days of your relationship, Miles jacked off quite a lot thinking about you. He was so enraptured, how could he not? Though he’d be hard pressed to admit it, he still does sometimes. If you haven’t seen each other in a few days, he’ll masturbate thinking about what he wishes to do to you, and vice versa. 

K = Kink (One or more of their kinks)

Miles isn’t super kinky, but he does enjoy using his tie to blindfold you sometimes. He also purchased some silk rope to tie your hands to the bed too. Miles enjoys sensory play, so keeping you like that means you get to enjoy everything he does to you even more. On occasion, if he’s had a stressful time, Miles does like it if you switch places, and you tie him up instead. He’s also a big fan of the erotic massage, both giving and receiving.

L = Location (Favorite places to do the do)

Miles’ ultimate favourite, hands down, is the bedroom, where you can have complete privacy to explore each other, and take your time.

 M = Motivation (What turns them on, gets them going)

Miles loves seeing you in a well tailored suit. There’s something about the way the clothes hang perfectly on your body that drives him wild. He is, also, a stereotypical man, and if he comes home to find you in something skimpy and sexy, he’ll think all his Christmases have come at once and that he’s the luckiest man in the world.

N = NO (Something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Roleplay. Specifically roleplay that involves abuse of power somehow. Whilst he obviously understands that it is just an act, and that you’d be consenting, the idea still makes him exceptionally uncomfortable. 

O = Oral (Preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc)

While Miles will always enjoy you going down on him, there’s just something about seeing you on your knees, taking pleasure in giving him pleasure, his preference is always to go down on you. Hearing your moans and the way you chant his name as he uses his mouth to bring you to your peak, is absolutely one of his favourite things ever.

P = Pace (Are they fast and rough? Slow and sensual? etc.)

Miles has been known to get a little rougher, especially if things aren’t going well with a case and he’s frustrated, but usually, he prefers to go slow and take his time. If he can, he’d spend an entire night making love until you’re both sweaty, exhausted messes.

Q = Quickie (Their opinions on quickies rather than proper sex, how often, etc.)

Miles is definitely not opposed to quickies if the occasion pops-up (that one time during the office Christmas party immediately springs to mind,) but he definitely prefers to take his time.

R = Risk (Are they game to experiment, do they take risks, etc.)

Miles really isn’t that risky. He doesn’t mind the odd experiment, but only if it’s pretty safe. The riskiest thing the two of you have done was have sex outside one time when you went hiking together.

S = Stamina (How many rounds can they go for, how long do they last…)

Miles isn’t as young as he used to be, so he can’t go for that many rounds. The maximum rounds you’ve had together is two (both of which were fantastic so you definitely weren’t complaining.) However, with his age and experience, comes stamina, and Miles can last a long time if he wants to. Which he does, because he always wants to make sure you come as many times as possible before letting go himself.

T = Toy (Do they own toys? Do they use them? On a partner or themselves?)

Miles doesn’t own any toys, and he’s never thought about buying any either. If you show him one of your own though, or go out to buy one as a surprise, he’s going to thoroughly love helping you use it. Maybe a little too much. You’ll be walking funny the next day for sure.

U = Unfair (How much they like to tease)

Oh Miles is going to tease. It takes him some time to get comfortable enough not to stumble over himself, but once he does...he loves it. But, he’ll readily admit, that between the two of you, you’re the superior teaser. Especially when you’re out somewhere public, and start whispering in his ear what you’re thinking, or texting him the odd sexy pic during the day. It drives him mad.

V = Volume (How loud they are, what sounds they make)

Miles is pretty quiet, he tends to hold back a bit, not wanting to come across too eager or embarrassing. Half your fun though, comes from dragging every little noise out of him. Your favourites are the small breathy moans he makes when you’re sucking him off, and the half-choked groan when he comes.

W = Wild Card (Get a random headcanon for the character of your choice)

Since meeting you, Miles’ new favourite item of clothing to wear is a tie. He loves when you grab him by it and pull him into a passionate kiss (usually shortly after a trial where you watched him be his awesome self and put a bad guy away.) And the first time you suggested using it to tie your hands or use it as a blindfold, his brain almost broke, but fuck, he loved seeing it on you like that.

X = X-Ray (Let’s see what’s going on in those pants, picture or words)

Look at those pants. Miles is packing. He’s long and thick and curled a little to the left, and every time he fucks you he fills you perfectly, and leaves you craving more.

Y = Yearning (How high is their sex drive?)

In between relationships Miles’ sex drive has never been that high. But when he’s with you, he can never get enough. Even after being together a long time, Miles still craves the touch and feel of your body against his. One of his new dreams is to whisk you away on a vacation where neither of you get out of bed the entire time.

Z = ZZZ (How quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

He hates to admit it, but Miles can’t stay awake for as long as he’d like afterwards. If he had it his way, he’d stay awake long enough to watch you sleep a little first, (he loves how relaxed and at ease you are asleep in his arms,) but that’s not often the case, especially if you’ve been at it awhile. You never mind though. You love watching him sleep as much as he does you, and it means you always fall to sleep with a smile.

Resurrection | 5

Summary: A ragtag team of Spec-Ops operators are brought out of retirement for all the wrong reasons. When the dust settles, only the best will be left standing. Pairing: Pablo Schreiber x OFC, Henry Cavill x OFC (listen, she gets with the whole team, okay? Don’t lie, you would too.) Word Count: 2K Warnings: Waterboarding. Dream sequence involving death and gore.  A/N: I’m reposting this for a few reasons. Mainly ‘cause I’m done having my fics in two places, wanted to re-work the cover, and most importantly wanted those of you who weren’t following me back when these chapters were originally posted to be able to take it in from scratch. I’ve also cleaned up a lot of the text as far as grammar, etc. goes, so it’s more polished.  ***ALSO: All the Portuguese translations are found in the links (read the address bar or the error that comes up when you click the link)*** Like what I do? Buy me a coffee (or a commission)!

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Gone are the suits and ties, and my heels are replaced by combat boots. 

The safehouse we use for interrogations is across town from the one we stay at, and it shows. Far from the posh of Knightsbridge, Dagenham is home to the largest diesel engine manufacturing site in the world. Soot and oil coat everything and at night, the area is a ghost town; perfect for our needs. 

On paper, all the governments in the room condem torture, but work in the business of terror long enough, and you know that’s all just to save face and keep the top brass’ hands clean. We’re not animals about it of course, but if Miguel wobbles a little in his seat, it’s only because we let Max drive and London roads are so winding.

“You know...We don’t technically have to take the bag off his head.” Flip murmurs, breaking the silence we’ve all been in since getting Miguel settled into his new surroundings. 

“You’re absolutely certain he’s never seen you, darling?” Max asks me, his face set in concentration. The rest of the team look up for my answer and I nod. 

“Positive. Besides, bag or no bag, if he knew me, he’d have recognized my call sign by now,” I remind them, relief shooting around the room as all the men recall that Miguel was privy to any conversation we had in the car, call signs included. 

“Alright. Who’s going in with you?” Rick asks, finally moving from his position against the wall and taking a seat next to Flip who looks all too eager to get a crack at our soon-to-be informant. Knowing he’ll be a liability if he reads the tone wrong, I look around, my gaze resting on Max as I smirk. 

“Beef. I owe him for nearly taking his head off earlier,” I answer, both Dom and Rick nodding their understanding. Flip looks somewhat crestfallen, but I know he understands. He, of all of us, is too close to the situation, and though I know there’ll be a time to turn him loose, this isn’t it. 

Max and I both stand from our seats, checking our handguns as we move towards the blast door that separates us from Miguel. Taking a moment, we focus our gazes on eachother, silently getting on the same page so that there’s no chance of Miguel thinking one of us is weaker than the other. 

With a nod to each other, I take a deep breath and open the door. Padded on the inside in order to mitigate any screaming or loud music we might use throughout our interrogations, the room is graveyard silent. Once the door shuts, Max moves with precision, turning the stereo on full blast, and I can’t help but smile at the song that comes on. While all of us are metal fans, it’s one of the most effective interrogation tools we have because those in the hot seat usually either haven’t ever heard metal before (and are immediately disturbed by it) or despise it to the point where they can only tolerate so much. EDM comes a close second, but in Miguel’s case, Metal is the right call as he flinches immediately. Catching Max’s eye, we can’t help but grin as we mouth along to the lead singer’s screaming, the song’s lyrics about lying and choking oddly appropriate for what’s about to happen. 

I headbang along with the double-bass as I grab a five gallon jug of water, hoisting it over my shoulder and letting Max handle the towels as we set things up. When everything’s ready, Max moves into position, arms crossed over his broad chest, his trademark scowl firmly in place. 

I count to three with one hand, and on ‘one’, pull the bag from Miguel’s head, immediately tipping his head back and holding it in place with my forearm as I dilate his eyes. Max and I both stay out of his line of sight for the few moments it takes for the drops to work, and once we see the tell-tale squint, we slowly move to our places. 

“Miguel, ta com cara que tá com sede, meu amigo.” I open, one eyebrow raised, staying just far away enough to be little more than a faceless blur to our informant. 

“Vai se foder!” He yells, trying and failing to get out of the restraints he’s in. 

“Ah, que isso, cara. Não fique assim. A gente só quer falar com você,” I purr, playing the “Nice Girl” routine even though everyone in the room knows it won’t last long. 

“Certo, é por isso que vocês me capturaram, colocaram um saco na minha cabeça, e me levaram a Deus sabe onde. Falar, uma ova!” 

“Já aprendeu Inglês, seu cafajeste?” I ask him, hoping he’s picked up a second language since the last time any of our governments dealt with him, more for the rest of the team’s sake than my own.

“I have,” he says, his accent nearly a perfect facsimile of anyone who’s been born and raised in London. Max’s eyebrow goes up in mild surprise, and if I know my team, the rest of them are all pressed against the two-way mirror, intent on listening now that they can understand. 

“Good, so we’ll do this in English, ‘cause fuck you,” I tell him in no uncertain terms, moving into his space so he can confirm that the woman he wanted to bang at the party is the same one who’s now holding his life in her hands. 

With everyone in the room discreetly mic’d up--including Miguel--there’s no need to turn down the music, and I use it to my advantage, wanting him as disoriented as possible so that he’s not focused on his words or the thoughts behind them.

“Three weeks ago, right here in London, two of our own were killed by a bomb that has your signature all over it. Wanna tell me who you sold that bomb to?”

Miguel laughs, a dry throaty sound that comes from too many cigars, and too much time around toxic chemicals; if one of us doesn’t kill him, I know for a fact cancer will get him in the end. 

“I sell bombs to many people. How am I supposed to remember who I’ve sold to a month ago, puta?”

I don’t have time to react as Max lunges in and connects with Miguel’s jaw in one of the most vicious right hooks I’ve seen him throw in a long time. 

“Talk to her like that again and I’ll dislocate the other side, y’cunt.” Max growls, teeth bared mere inches from Miguel’s face, leaving no room for interpretation of just how pissed he is. Without another word, Max takes Miguel’s face in his hand and relocates the joint he popped out, a scream coming from our informant as soon as he can open his mouth.

“See, Miguel, I’d like to think you’d remember, because this particular order had your initials on one of the plates, and I know you only do that when your order is for a single explosive device. Mass orders go through the factory, but the custom pieces, well...You’ve gotta take pride in your work, right?” I’ll give the man props, because if he’s searching for a lie, I can’t tell. His face stays unreadable apart from the discomfort from the light. 

I shoot Max a look just as the song switches over, and he nods. 

“Fuck this.” He barks, flipping a switch on the wall that immediately sends Miguel’s chair back into a 45 degree angle, the back legs hinged to the floor so he can never truly fall back, but feels  like he’s going to, just the same. With the lights directly in his line of sight, I can’t keep from smirking as I hear Miguel hiss and try to cover his eyes, the steel shackles on his wrists clanking loudly and only causing him more pain. 

“What is it, Miguel? Lights too bright?” I ask as I move to grab the first neatly folded towel from the pile. “Don’t worry, I got you.” 

Pressing the towel firmly against his face, I stand out of the way as Max pours the water from the jug. We both count silently in our heads, Max stopping at exactly the right number as I flick the switch to bring Miguel upright once more. 

Our informant coughs and sputters, screaming every vulgarity I’ve ever heard in Portuguese before spitting in our general direction. 

“THERE WAS NO NAME! IT WAS PURCHASED BY AN ENTITY!”

I roll my eyes, annoyed that a man who once gave up an internationally-wanted terrorist is now spewing bullshit about an entity. 

“So you sold your shit to a ghost? ‘That what you want me to believe?” I ask, feeling my own anger start to rise. I grab a fresh towel and Max and I repeat the process with surgical precision. It takes Miguel a little longer to cough up the water he’s swallowed, but when he’s finally able to speak, his voice is far more defeated. 

“Yes, in a manner of speaking. The entity I sold that bomb to is known as Cenere. I get a call with a location, date, and time for delivery. I get the specs sent via encrypted email, and when the time comes, I deliver, usually to a lock box in the middle of nowhere. That is all I know.”

Max looks at me and I know he’s itching to hit him again. I shake my head, squatting down in front of our informant so that he can see me clearly. 

“Is there anything else you want to tell us that may be important? For example, the location and date of the last delivery you provided for this entity?” I enunciate every word, my tone making it clear that I’ll be the one hitting him next if he tries to lie or get smart again. 

“L-last delivery was in Roma, by the Colosseum, a week ago.” He answers, still hoarse from inhaling water. 

“So whoever these people are, they’re planning another bombing,” I say, feeling the room behind me start moving; Rick and Dom looking up information, Flip packing our gear. We don’t have a lot of time. 

“Y-yes. The bomb that killed your amigos was delivered exactly two weeks before it detonated. That’s how they always do it.” Miguel adds, giving us an even narrower timeline to get to Rome. 

“Cut him loose,” I sigh, wishing Miguel could give us more to go on besides a location we’ll be getting to with zero prep time and even less information. 

Max moves towards him, a wolfish grin on his face. I close my eyes, knowing exactly what’s about to happen. 

“I sincerely hope someone strings you up by your balls and cuts them off with a piece of paper. This is for everyone you’ve had a hand in massacring. Especially my friends.” 

I don’t have to look to hear a few of Miguel’s teeth rattle to the floor. 

The room is starkly lit, the sickly blue tone reminiscent of a hospital. Empty aside from a plexiglass box filled with dirt and a pine-board coffin, there’s a feeling dread that emanates throughout the place. 

“Carmen? Carmen! Carmen, if you can hear me, you need to get me out. Get me the fuck out of here, Carmen. Carmen, please!! Please! I can’t-I can’t breathe! Carmen, don’t leave me here!” 

A heartbeat--elevated and distinct--couple with the sounds of hyperventilation to turn dread into pure fear. 

“CARMEN, PLEASE! I’M GOING TO DIE! DON’T LET THEM KILL ME!”

Something cuts through the air with a distinct zing, crashing heavily onto the floor. The box, the dirt, and the coffin are all sliced neatly, trapped almost perfectly between thick sheets of razor-sharp glass. All except the first slice, where the side of the coffin has fallen away, trapped at a skewed angle below the dirt. 

Rick looks like a fish out of water, gasping for breath, tears flooding his eyes. Despite being segmented like some primal experiment, every part of him still heaves with breath, organs pulsing with blood they no longer have, intact structurally despite being completely separated. 

“Carmen, please!” It’s a whisper now, the life going out of Jake’s eyes even as the tears sweep his face.

A long, low horn sounds, finalizing the horror that’s come to pass.

I wake screaming, tears pouring down my face. Not realizing where I am at first, I don’t even see the boys as I fight with my lap belt and haul ass out of the seat, vaulting over Dom’s legs and careening to the bathroom to throw up. It’s rare that I dream, but when I do, it’s never good. This one felt too real; felt like a message from a man I’m certain we buried. The room spins and I heave out what little is left from lunch earlier. When I’m certain there’s nothing left to get out, I sit back, sobbing. 

Once my breath stabilizes, I stand up and wash out my mouth, swilling the jet’s courtesy mouthwash before splashing cold water on my face. Stepping out of the small bathroom, I’m met with utter silence and four sets of eyes staring at me with concern. I can’t bring myself to tell them what I dreamt, and none of them need an intro into nightmares, as all of us, regardless of how little bloodshed we’ve seen, have them from time to time. 

Still feeling the panic in my throat, I decide against taking my old seat, not wanting to be caged in. Instead, I sit behind Dom’s aisle, resting my head against the cool plastic of the window and looking out, my mind reeling. What if the bomb isn’t what killed him and Benj? What if they suffered? What if-- I cut off my own mental processing, not wanting to go down the dark alleys of my mind, wiping my eyes to stem the flow of fresh tears. 

I feel a hand at my knee, and looking down, find Dom’s hand reaching back through the seats. Though he faces forward, it’s easy to tell what he’s doing, and I lace our fingers together loosely, taking the much-needed comfort of his touch. He gives my fingers a gentle squeeze, and I turn my face away further, not wanting any of the guys to see me like this.

Alright I reached my ask limit but I was the one who guessed 5’4 first. Okay so I sent an ask on anon ages ago where the Jims held down Yancy while Bim gave him tummy kisses and tummy tickles to make him squeal and giggle. I’m in a really soft mood so will you please write that Doc? ❤️

Y O U R  I D E N T I T Y  H A S  B E E N  R E V E A L E D

“Uh, guys? Wha’s goin’ on?”

Yancy stopped in the entrance to the living area, raising a suspicious eyebrow at the way the Jims were...looking at him. He swallowed, and set the glass he’d come to put away in the kitchen on an end table, making to spin on his heel, and --

“Wait wait wait wait, Yancy, hold on!” One Jim -- RJ? -- caught his arm. “Just -- hear us out? For one moment?”

“Oh...kay...” Yancy shrugged off the Jim’s touch, unable to shake off the dread pooling in his gut. “What is it?”

All he got was a grin before both Jims were grabbing his arms and throwing him onto a loveseat.

Yancy shrieked, and tried to throw them off, his shirt riding up in his struggles. “Wh -- hey! Let go of me, what the Hell?!”

The Jims just shifted to pin him better, RJ taking both of his wrists to pin against one arm of the loveseat, while CJ grabbed his ankles, pinning them to the opposite end. Yancy squirmed, but the Jims were unexpectedly strong, and he paled a little when they called out, “BIIIIIIM!”

Bim immediately poked his head out of the kitchen with a grin, and Yancy began struggling anew. “You rang?” He stepped fully into the living area, stalking toward the loveseat Yancy was trapped on. The Jims refused to budge, no matter how much Yancy tried to curl in on himself, as Bim drew closer. He tugged on the hem of Yancy’s shirt, raising an eyebrow, and making Yancy’s face flush bright red. “We should get you bigger shirts, Yancy.” His blush just deepened at those words. “Your current ones don’t leave much to the imagination.”

Yancy’s face reddened further, and he opened his mouth to spit out something embarrassed and indignant, but them Bim was scratching his nails down Yancy’s exposed belly.

Yancy let out a surprised, involuntary laugh, squirming more in the Jims’ hold as Bim repeated his actions, a shit-eating grin on his face. “No no no no no st -- stop it PLE --” Bim’s fingers danced underneath Yancy’s shirts, digging into his ribs, and Yancy shrieked again, arching his back in a poor attempt of getting away from Bim’s touch. His head was trapped between his arms in the position the Jims had him, he couldn’t move, could get away, and another bout of bubbling laughter burst from him when one of Bim’s hands moved back to his belly, the other continuing to assault his ribs.

Eventually, Bim pulled his hands away, allowing Yancy a breath. He was giggling to himself in between heaving pants, glaring weakly with betrayal at the three. “Fuck you guys...”

Bim raised an eyebrow, planting on hand on his hip and gesturing with his other. “Do you really think it’s a good idea to threaten us -- with a good time, might I add -- while we’ve still got you pinned?”

Yancy somehow paled as color simultaneously rose back in cheeks. “Wait --”

Bim sank to his knees, and Yancy didn’t know what he was expecting, but it certainly wasn’t Bim planting a big raspberry to his belly.

Yancy’s laughter was infectious as he threw his head back as much as he could, absolutely writhing beneath Bim. The Jims were giggling by now as well, and Bim couldn’t keep up his new assault long before he, too , was dissolving into laughter, shoulders shaking. He stood again after one more raspberry that had Yancy squealing, and brushed off his suit. “Hold him right there, guys, I’m gonna go see if the Host will let me borrow one of his quills --”

Yancy’s eyes widened with a new panic, despite his smile and giggling, and Bim ran off with his own terrifying grin.

Commission me | Buy me a ko-fi

W.A.L: “Fly Me to the Moon” Part One (22)

s u m m a r y:

Eden was the lowest of the low, a monster, hardly human, and was set to be executed. Roman was on trial, perpetually stuck in time until it was time to atone for his families sins.

Neither cared much for staying trapped.

So when a Stranger offered freedom, offered peace, offered power, it was hard to say no.

Even if it put them on the wrong side of history.

v i b e s :

time is irrelevent, homophobia who?, magic and beasts, demigods

w a r n i n g s

Imprisonment, Mentions of execution, Blood/ injuries,  Mentions of past Death, minor character death/suicide,  repression, cursing,

c h a r a c t e r s

Deceit(Eden) Sanders, Remy Sanders, Logan Sanders, Virgil Sanders, Patton Sanders, Roman Sanders, Emile Picani

Ship: Roceit

1) (2)   (3)  (4) (5)

(6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11)

(12) (13) (14) (15) (16) (17)

---

“Are the rest of the brats getting ready?” Roman asked, picking up a comb and a jar of moisturizer.

“Uh-- I think so?” Lauren winced sitting back, “I wouldn’t know, Kai’s being… weird,” Roman ran their hand experimentally through the now kinkier coils in her hair, the light tugging of her scalp painfully nostalgic.

She’d always prefered her hair straight, but she never went so long without taking a break. It was mainly luck that she hadn’t had any major heat damage, but even that fear didn’t make the idea any more appealing.

You could say she was avoiding it in a way.

Her mom had always insisted on braiding Lauren’s hair herself, so the act was tangled with her in every way. Doing it by herself now only made her mom’s absence louder, but having Roman here made it better.

“Weird how?” Roman asked, detangling her hair, “Is he getting pissy about getting his ass kicked?”

“No…” She said, bracing herself, “That’s why it's weird. He’s not complaining, he’s avoiding me,” She sighed, feeling strangely annoyed. It wasn’t like she liked the constant arguing, but this was just odd…. Did she do something wrong?

Why does she even care?

Roman’s hands stopped mid braid, “Oh,” he hummed before resuming, “Maybe he’s just in a mood,” he said, a laugh peeking through his tone.

“What?” Lauren demanded.

“Nothing, nothing,” Roman snickered, “I’m just thinking about how pretty you’re going to be in that dress,” he cooed, pinching her cheek and effectively smearing whatever moisturizer he was using all over her cheek.

“Gross,” Lauren scowled to keep the smile from her face, “Anyway you’re too calm about this,” she said, her worry bubbling at the thought of just… walking into Council territory, “Do you really believe Drak’on’s going to play fair?”

It could go a lot of ways.

Logan was fair to a fault, so she wasn’t worried about dirty tricks from him. But he was predictable in a dangerous way. He had a never ending consistency that tended to wear people down. Roman wasn’t as unpredictable as Remus, but he had a similar quality. He couldn’t afford to trust that his body and magic would perform the same way every time, so he had to be creative, and more than often had to run himself ragged.

“Are you worried?” Roman asked, but it was more like an observation.

“You should be,” Lauren grumbled.

“I’m not,” Roman said.

She was oddly comforted by the finality of the promise.

---

Upon opening the letter, they were taken in a flash of light.

They first saw a glittering series of arcs that were almost translucent. It was as if the towering structure was merely ideas carved into the stars, but it solid beneath their feet. Deceit wasn’t sure how he was breathing with the world so far beneath him, with the stars so close.

The Offerings were a series of events, of elaborate ceremonies, of balls. A celebration at it's finest, but preformative grief at its core. Councilmen decked out in elaborate gowns and ancient suits milled inside the glittering gates, magic flowing from people’s tongues as easy as they laughed.

The brats were pretty much gawking, but thankfully they didn’t wander off.

Roman’s face betrayed nothing but unapologetic decadence. Their hair braided high before exploding into a fire of curls and flowers. All signs of exhaustion were wiped clean behind rosy lips and impossibly dark lashes that were stark against his eyes. Roman was in his element to anyone with eyes, but his death grip on Deceit’s arm told another story.

Which to be fair, was expected. They were deep in Councilmen territory, with their invitation only being allowed due to the technicalities of their situation--i.e all the alleged crimes not being directly linked to anyone, but The Stranger-- and Drak’on’s disturbing amount of influence.

Still Deceit knew that wasn’t it, “Roman?” He said, the question hanging in the air between them as they handed off their bags.

“The curse,” Roman sighed, “Even if I have temporary immunity, I keep expecting to...It’s more mental than anything,” he explained, low, “It shouldn’t be a problem, but...forgive me if I’m a bit more clingy,”

“That’s it?” He said scrutinizing them. They'd gotten better at actually vocalizing their limits lately, but Deceit knew he’d be more willing to cover it up in order to not cause a scene.

“E… Darling... tonight will be fine,” Roman promised. He tilted his head, horns catching the light and his eyes having a hungry glint, “You trust me?”

Deceit was breathless, “Something like that.”

---

Virgil stirred the brothy, something, in front of him, mildly impressed by how shiny the utensils were, but mostly getting sick by how rich everything tasted. It wasn’t like he wasn’t used to eating “good” food, in fact from what he could remember he was most likely used to it, but there was a different level of luxury here. It was almost irritating.

Actually a lot of things were irritating, the key one being that his supposed date fucked off to schmooze with rich bastards, but the most alarming part of that was that Virgil wasn’t sure he wanted to talk to Logan at all right now.

It was all duel this and duel that lately. About how this is what he always deserved, how he’ll somehow become better--how everything will become better once he finally puts this to rest and claim his rightful place. Virgil’s beginning to suspect that Logan didn’t even realize how obsessed he was getting with it.

In fact, Virgil suspected that Logan’s always been obsessed with this, but Dr. Picani never let him fixate on that need entirely. Even if Dr. Picani was low-key just as dysfunctional as his Apprentices, the man was disgustingly determined to create a somewhat functional life for them.

But Dr. Picani was gone, even if they found him-- his consciousness had yet to return. All they had now was Ms. Annalise Drak’on, someone who apparently had no issue with feeding Logan’s obsession.

Virgil felt sick.

He stood, not caring about how loudly he dropped the utensils or about the dirty looks sent his way as he pushed his way through the crowd. The band was some pseudo-jazz, a thundering accompaniment to his rising anxiety and the dazzling lights were getting too much and--

His spiraling halted upon catching the faintest blue flash in the corner of his eye. Turning around he met Patton’s eyes. Virgil flinched and for the briefest moment Patton’s brow furrowed, before smoothing into his normal dazed expression, “You’re alone?”

Virgil wanted to scowl, but he couldn’t. He was alone and he wasn't sure how long its been draining away at him.

Patton nodded at his non-response, “You need air,” he said, before turning on his heel and disappearing into the crowd. It took a few seconds before Virgil realized he was meant to follow.

Virgil somehow found himself out of the crowd, feeling the cool air first, and the relief of being away from all of those people all at once. Patton was already there leaning against the balcony, the translucent beads of their gown soft against the blue of the distant earth.

Patton turned his head to acknowledge him, “Is this better?”

“I think so,” Virgil sighed, slumping against the balcony, “Uh… thanks, I guess,” Patton laughed, an off colored chirp that normally unnerved Virgil, but now only made him blush, “What?”

“I don’t scare you anymore, do I?” Patton said, covering his mouth.

“I was never--” Virgil winced at the lie, “Was I that obvious?”

“Yes, but…” Patton started, trailing off, “I didn’t mind completely,”

Virgil frowned, “You didn’t mind me being an asshole?”

“I minded,” Patton said, “But at least you didn’t hide it,” he shrugged as if that explained it all, “I knew Logan and Emile cared about me, but… it was like they were afraid to admit that they didn’t always feel safe,”

“...Should we feel safe?’ Virgil said, twisting and untwisting the loose hair.

Patton didn’t respond immediately, tracing the rail, “I wish you could, but I…” he sighed, “Watchdogs aren’t meant to be outside the colonies for long without a bond...we aren’t built for that. When I’m home I can feel-- I’m in control,” he said, “But here, it feels like all I can do is take orders and hope, there’s nothing else there,” His face twisted unnaturally, but his eyes remained blank.

“Why…” Virgil tore his gaze away, “After Remus….Why didn’t you go to Roman?” he asked. It seemed simple, just go to another Sanders, a legal, full magic Sanders--

“I wasn’t in love with Roman,” Patton said, with no theatrics, but the simplicity throbbed with something intense, “Why didn’t you die in the river?”

“I-” Rushing water, blood everywhere,it was only supposed to be a game, it was a game it was a game, it was a game, “I didn’t want to die.”

“You’re lying,” Patton said, matter of fact.

Virgil blew out his cheeks, “I got lucky,” he admitted. Lucky that he wasn’t deemed enough of a threat by the other two. Lucky that the vial seared in his hand instead of in his eyes or down his throat. Lucky that at the end of the day, he thought it was a just game. Something stupid to do before church.

If only he knew that it was The Stranger’s Game he was playing.

“Well...I’m glad you were lucky,” Patton said quietly, “I wouldn’t have met you and I certainly wouldn’t have stayed for as long as I did without you two…”

Virgil’s throat tightened, “I…” he wiped his eyes, “Why do I feel like that’s a goodbye?” he choked out a bitter laugh.

“It doesn’t have to be,” Patton smiled, “You could always visit the colonies,” he said wistfully, and Virgil swore he glowed a little bit brighter, “I might be a bit...different there, but it's a good different,”

“...Can you tell me more about it?” Virgil asked.

Patton did.

He told Virgil about the fountains-- how water dripped like fire, but was icy to the touch. He talked about how young watchdogs burned holes in their cribs and terrorized their families. About the family dinners, with plates overflowing with food--how each story and laugh was never the same.

He told Virgil about how the community grew closer and took care of each other in spite of the stricter regulations. About how they’re even planning to build their own schools instead of relying on council tutors. He told Virgil about his mom and dad, about how they missed him, but understood he wanted to see his friends. He told Virgil about everything he missed and hated and seemed to glow a little bit brighter with each second.

Virgil doesn’t know why, but it felt nice. It sounded nice--talking to Patton was nice in a way that Virgil didn’t even know he missed. It's been awhile since he just...had fun.

The music changed, to something delicate--a soft piano, followed by a low, breathy voice. Patton’s voice trailed off and he closed his eyes swaying to the lullaby.

Virgil asked him for a dance.

SINoALICE x Code Geass: Resolve to Take Up a Sword: Turn 2

*As usual, text that is just italicized indicates in-battle dialogue

-

Part 1

"Where in the world is this place?" In this world that is neither a dream nor reality, Suzaku wanders. (First, I have to gather information...) Now, as he looked around the vicinity to evaluate the circumstances, he decided to enter the big shrine for the time being and began walking there. An unknown land. Suddenly, a monster called a Nightmare appeared. And then— (I feel like I saw Euphie...) Suzaku grasped his pocket watch, thinking of his lady that should be dead. There, in the middle of the road, stood a woman with hair the color of a dull rose.

"Don't go any further. You said you needed to find it, right? Find it quick. The meaning of holding a sword." "What are you..." "How many times do I have to repeat myself? God you're a pain." Saying that, she turned on her heel and disappeared back into the forest. "Wait. You— !" Suzaku made to run after her, but a Nightmare blocked his path.

A little lost after fighting the Nightmare, Suzaku came across a decaying hut. (There couldn't possibly be anyone living in such a dangerous place...) However, contrary to his expectations, he could see the form of an old woman inside. Suzaku was impatient, and unconsciously called out to the old woman. "It's dangerous here! There's monsters wandering around the area, you should flee immediately—" "I'm sorry. I understand what you're saying, but this is a very important place to me..." "But—" "You look tired. If you can stay for a bit, I can make you some tea." The old woman gently invited Suzaku in.

- Part 2

The next morning, he was worried about the old woman, but when he awoke, she wasn't there. Panicking, he rushed outside, but the old woman was right there, laying flowers on a grave right next to the house. "Ah, you're awake now?" "Good morning. Um, that's..." "Yes... it's my husband's grave." (Ah, I see. So that's why this person—) Learning the reason why the old woman wouldn't leave this place, Suzaku felt an indescribable feeling. However— "There's no time to waste on sentimentality." Suzaku cut down the attacking Nightmare in one blow.

"Thank you for protecting me. You're strong, aren't you." "No, I'm not..." "You know, your power isn't for saving this old granny. I wonder if you could use it to save many more people." "... If I did that, I would surely regret letting you die. I don't want to make the wrong choice again." As he said that, the old woman reached over and patted his head, like one would do to a child. "You're kind, aren't you."

"I'm kind...?" "That's right. Kind people hesitate in their choices. And they have a lot of worries. Is it okay if I talk for a bit? Right now, what is the biggest thing that's troubling you right now?" Lulled by the old woman's voice, Suzaku said what was bothering him without hesitation. "The person who killed.... someone precious to me..... might be my best friend..." (Isn't that right? Lelouch...) Nothing answered his heart's objection to those words.

- Part 3

"Shall I tell you a little about my husband?" The old woman began to speak tenderly to Suzaku after he voiced his worries. When she was young, her husband would ask her what she wanted for her birthday every year. She wanted flowers, but she was stubborn and thought they wouldn't suit her so she couldn't say what she truly wanted. And so when her close friend gave her flowers for her birthday, she said she was going for a walk because she deplored the smell of flowers. But her husband always gave her something that wasn't flowers.

"But I've been giving you flowers every year since a certain year. Do you know why?" "No..." "Easy. You said you wanted flowers." She said bashfully. "It's no good if you don't say anything. That's why you have to talk to your best friend." "But where are you going now..." "I'm going to the capital. There's lots of people there." "The capital..." "Have you seen the grand shrine? It's there." "I understand. Thank you very much. But before that, I have to do as much as I can." Saying that, Suzaku took up his sword.

"Before she goes to the capital— let's eliminate the monsters in this area. So that the old lady will be safe..."

When Suzaku finished off the Nightmares around the hut, he made a bouquet. (If it's just this, I wonder if there's time to go into the woods to pick flowers.) If he went to the capital, he could get information and come back here quickly. If there was a connection between them— was what Suzaku thought before he opened the hut's door. What was reflected in his eyes was... The old woman dyed with blood, and the form of a bandit splattered with her scarlet blood.

- Part 4

When the bandit who killed the old woman saw Suzaku, he nervously began spouting excuses. "I didn't mean to kill her! She could've handed her valuables over quietly, but this hag resisted! I was desperate! If you're just doing your best to survive until tomorrow, you have to steal from others!" "That's why you say it's okay to kill people?!" "S-Shut up! It's no use! I'm trying to protect myself! That's right, if it's to protect my family, I will—" A black mist began to gather around the robber as he assumed a fighting stance.

" K i l l . . .  T o  p r o t e c t  m y s e l f ,  I ' l l  k i l l  y o u ! "

"You are already... no longer human."

When he cut down the bandit and approached the old woman, she was still breathing, just barely. "Granny?!" — But her wheezing breaths showed that she wouldn't live for much longer. "It... hurts..." "Granny, hang in there!" ".... ll me. In a moment. To where that person is..." "...!" As the old woman wished, Suzaku's sword took her life with a single thrust.

Suzaku stared at the old woman's blood staining his hands. "Aa..." The lukewarm feel and musty odor jolted his memories. It was the same as that time he killed his father to stop the war— "Aa... aaaaaaaaaaaa!" Having an intense headache, Suzaku collapsed on the spot.

- Part 5

When Suzaku opened his eyes, there was a small child sitting in front of the bandit's corpse. "Dad... Dad..." "... Are you that person's child?" "Why did you kill my dad?" "That's because your father..." "Even though all my dad did was protect me! Is that wrong?! So you killed him?!" "Don't... don't ask me!" "Don't run away! Look at your sins!" The girl turned to Suzaku, showing him her father's bright red blood soaking her hands. "For what do you kill?!" "I... I...!"

"You killed him. Dad, come back!"

"I'm sorry... I..."

"BRING HIM BACK!”

"Where on earth did I make a mistake..."

Making a grave for the old woman, the bandit, and his daughter, Suzaku held a funeral for them. "You still don't understand?" When he looked up at the voice, he saw the dull rose-haired fortuneteller standing there. "... It's fine, whether it's reality or a dream. Will you condemn me? Before I make another mistake." "I hate it. Why do I have to wipe your ass? Do it yourself. You'll lose yourself if you don't take responsibility for the lives you've taken."

"And you're not ready to accept the hatred of those left behind." "Responsibility... and hatred..." "If you're not ready to bear all of the responsibility, then you shouldn't have a sword. Just be a bystander that shuts himself away in a corner of the world for the rest of his life." The fortuneteller called irritably over her shoulder as she left Suzaku.

- Part 6

Since then, Suzaku has shut himself away in the hut. Was it right or wrong? He kept thinking and thinking about it until he fell unconscious, then woke up thinking about it again. And he kept seeing endless nightmares. (How do... I...) There was no answer to that question. The answer he came to was—

"I won't forgive you."

"Yes, I won't forgive you."

"To just die like that—"

"We definitely—"

"—won't forgive you."

Suzaku woke to his own shouting. "I... I...!" A black mist gathered around Suzaku as he crouched, holding his face in his hands. The mist gathered, and gradually solidified into the shape of a person. "... Suzaku." "Euphie...?" "It's painful, isn't it? But it's okay. Do you want to start over together? Over and over again, for eternity..." "... Ah, that's right..." The black mist slowly engulfed Suzaku...

"It's no use. It seems that we're too late." Alice said calmly, running up to the hut and seeing Suzaku turn into a Nightmare. "Your best friend was swallowed up again." "I see...." Behind Alice, a slim boy with black hair and violet eyes came running. "I'm sorry, Suzaku. Next time, I will definitely save you. And—" The slim boy's face twisted as he looked up at the sky. "... I'm sorry, Nunnally. Again, I..." The sky he looked up at was dyed bright red.

---

"E h ?  Is it split  a g a i n  ? ! "

" P l e a s e  think of  t h e  s t a f f . "

"If it's the Pokelabo staff, then we don't  n e e d  to  w o r r y  about them,  d o  w e ?  Pokelabo is  w h i t e . "

"As  e x p e c t e d ,  h u h . "

" —  W e l l ,  joking  a s i d e . T h i s  world is  f i l l e d  with ill will. For those who  l o s t  t h e i r  w a y  in this world,  t h e r e  w a s  a  massacre that happened in their original world.  F o r  t h o s e  that were killed, resentment  f i l l s  the world."

" I  s e e ,  I agree."

" I f  Suzaku commits a  m u r d e r ,  the main cause would  b e ,  e v e n  i f  h e  avoids  i t — would be to  a v o i d  a n o t h e r  t r a g e d y ,  i s n ' t  i t . "

"Isn't killing  n e c e s s a r y ? "

" Y e s .  That's why he should  a c k n o w l e d g e  i t . "

"His  w e a k n e s s . "

" L e t ' s  prepare."

"To accept the  p r i c e  o f  s i n  b e f o r e  w e  g o . "

" O n l y  t h e n  w i l l  t h e  l o o p  e n d . "

Yandere!Jeremiah Valeska X Reader One Shot Pt. 5

Hey, guys! Welcome back to the next installment of Yandere!Jeremiah. I was just going to let you know it does get a bit spicy at the end so if that’s not your thing you won’t miss much. As a side note I’d also like to say that I don’t condone things that Jeremiah does in this chapter and if any of you find the ending uncomfortable I can change it. Otherwise feedback is appreciated and I will see you in Part 6!

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/182328341418/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-one-shot

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/182409053588/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-oneshot-pt-2

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/182862984808/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-one-shot-pt-3

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/183226748438/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-one-shot-pt-4

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/183601483818/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-oneshot-pt-6

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/184215467078/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-oneshot-pt-7

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/184513626468/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-oneshot-pt-7

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/184712916978/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-oneshot-pt-7

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/185001873563/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-one-shot-pt-7

https://barefoot-joker.tumblr.com/post/186623351048/yanderejeremiah-valeska-x-reader-one-shot

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Beep.

  Beep.

      Beep.

           Clench.

I felt my fists tighten around the fabric of my skirt, my heart pumping wildly. Jeremiah was going to marry me?! At the sound of the door opening behind me I quickly swiveled to see Ecco, her body now in a long, skintight red and black dress. Her eyes instantly lit up as soon as she saw me, her lips spread in a smile. “Oh, Y/n. Don’t. You. Look. Gorgeous! Boss was right, you are the most exquisite woman in all of Gotham!”

She giggled as she walked to me, her heeled boots clicking the wooden floorboards beneath us. “Ecco, where’s Bruce?”

“He’s been taken care of don’t you worry.”

Taken care of? Don’t tell me he’s-

“He’s not dead, sweetheart. Boss made sure he came to your special day!”

Ecco began smoothing the fabric of my dress down and fluffing my veil to give it volume. As she did her pretty work the door opened once more to reveal Jeremiah, his attire being that of a suit in dark red, black, orange and dark blue. His black dress shoes scuffed the floor as he came towards us, my gaze lowering to the ground. “Don’t you look beautiful, darling!~ If I knew blue was your color I would have had you wear it all the time!”

“Isn’t it considered unlucky if you see the bride before she walks down the aisle?”

Jeremiah chuckled and lifted my chin which caused my gaze to be fixed on him. “Not in my mind its not.”

He side glanced at his proxy and waved his hand, her taking the hint and leaving. As much as I didn’t like the both of them I wish Ecco would have stayed. It would have been better than being with the beast alone. As soon as her heels radiated down the hall Jeremiah leaned in and gave a kiss to my neck, I flinching upon contact. “We’re going to be so happy together, dearest. It’ll just be us ruling this city together and no one will stop us, not even your dear Brucie.”

“What did you do to him? I swear if you hurt a single hair on his-”

“I would never! Bruce is just as special to you as he is me,” I turned away in disgust. “But you’re my top priority~”

“Why can’t you understand that I don’t want to be yours? Jeremiah, I don’t-”

Before I could finish he put a pale finger to my lips. “Shh, don’t say that. I know this whole thing will take some getting used to but we have our whole life ahead of us! If you don’t love me now surely it will come later.”

I sighed and closed my eyes. There was no point in trying anymore. Jeremiah was just too far gone that no matter what I said he wouldn’t change his mind. “It’s almost time for the ceremony, my love. But before I go I have something for you.”

Reaching into his blue jacket pocket, Jeremiah held up a silver chain necklace with a pendant on the end. Sadness reflected onto my soul as I instantly recognized what it was.

{Flashback}

“Miah, come on! Let me open my eyes!”

“Just wait a second.”

I playfully sighed. Jeremiah had called me down to the bunker for some unknown reason and I was hoping it wasn’t because he was in danger. My bad thoughts were removed when I walked into his study, the area decorated with birthday decorations. According to my ginger friend he was upset that he had missed my special day so he and Ecco arranged to have a small party with just the two of them. I will admit it was sweet of them to think of me but they didn’t have to go through with all of the trouble. Currently I sat on a couch with my hands over my eyes, footsteps rustling in the background. “Okay, you can open them.”

I did so and saw he held a small box with a green bow wrapped around it. “Miah, you didn’t have to get me anything!”

“I know but I wanted to stick to customs.”

I sighed and took the box from him, pulling off the bow and opening it. I gasped. Inside lay a simple silver necklace, a blueish green pendant on it. “M-Miah, it’s-it’s beautiful! Oh thank you!”

I got up and hugged him. “No problem, Y/n. I’m just glad you like it.”

“Could you help me put it on?”

“Of course.”

I spun around and moved my hair out of the way so he could clip it. It took him a second or two but as soon as he got it I turned towards him. “So, what do you think?”

I gave him a big smile as I posed with it, my friend not saying anything. After a few moments he shook his head and smiled. “I think it looks perfect.”

{End Flashback}

“This should complete your look.”

He came behind me and pushed my hair and veil out of the way so he could clasp it together. I felt my heart lock up as the cool metal dropped to my neck, it seemingly sealing my fate. “It looks just as perfect as it did all those months ago.”

I wanted to cry, scream, do anything. Everything was tumbling down for me. “See you out there, dearest.”

Quickly he pecked my cheek and left me to my own devices. Quietly I turned back towards the mirror and looked at myself. My reflection looked back at me with sadness in her eyes and in that moment I could see the cage that surrounded me, the one that no matter how lovely I sang or flew about the owner wasn’t going to be unlocking any time soon. Taking a deep breath I turned away and walked through the door, Ecco waiting for me outside. She handed me a bouquet of red roses before gently taking my arm and leading me down the hall to a pair of closed doors. My stomach twisted as I bit my trembling lip, nerves fluttering throughout my system. Suddenly the doors flew open and an organ began playing the infamous bridal processional tune as the dirty blonde woman led me down the aisle, her swaying us back and forth. My eyes scanned the room and I couldn’t stop the gasp that escaped my mouth. Sitting in the pews tied up and gagged was Alfred, Jim, Barbara, Harvey and Bruce, all of them dressed nice and fancy. Before I could go to them Ecco tightened her grip on my arm and pushed me forwards, Jeremiah catching me. Pulling me up to his level the madman gave me a huge grin before nodding to the pastor who looked like he was about to faint. The poor man flipped through his Bible in a nervous manner while mumbling to himself as Jeremiah gave him a glare. “Could we hurry this up a little?”

“U-um..of course, M-Mr. Valeska-a.W-We are gathered h-here today to join these t-two in h-holy matrimony-y. If there are any objections p-please say n-n-now.”

I looked back at my captive friends, all of them trying to say something. I looked over at the organist only to find a person holding a gun to their head. Suddenly my head was brought roughly back to look at Jeremiah, his pale fingers digging into my cheeks and chin. “Eyes up here, darling.” he hissed.

I gulped and he let go, his hands wrapping around mine in a tight grip. “Continue, Father.”

“D-do you pledge your lives t-to one a-another, to w-watch over the o-other in bad t-times? Do y-you promise to l-love each other-r tenderly-y and p-passionately, care for one another and c-cherish each moment?”

I wasn’t about to reply but I felt a gun pointed at the back of my skull so I changed my answer. “We do.”

“Do we have the rings?”

Jeremiah nodded and a random minion scurried off, returning with Selina’s corpse on a dolly holding the rings. I took in a shaky breath and watched as the minion made it seem like Selina was giving us the pieces of jewelry, her hand cold against mine. “R-repeat after me, Mr. V-Valeska. I Jeremiah p-promise to h-have and to h-hold this w-woman I take on as my w-wife. I p-promise to l-love and cherish her e-each day, for better or for worse, for richer, poorer, in sickness and in health till death do we part.”

My groom did as he was told, his blue eyes staring down into my soul and a big grin stretched across his lips. “W-with this ring I-I thee w-wed.”

Jeremiah slipped the gold band onto my ring finger, the blue jewel glinting in the candlelight. A perfect fit.

“Now repeat after me, Miss L-L/n.  I Y/n p-promise to h-have and to h-hold this m-man I take on as my h-husband. I p-promise to l-love and cherish him e-each day, for better or for worse, for richer, poorer, in sickness and in health till death do we part.”

“Jeremiah, you don’t have to do this. Let all these poor people go!”

“I can’t do that, sweetheart. We need witnesses. Now, say your vows.”

My eyes searched for any remaining humanity in my former ginger friend’s but his grip on my hands tightened and a shadow passed over his blue orbs. “Say. Them.”

I looked over at my friends but I heard the gun cock behind me so I returned back to home base, repeating every word in a trembling voice. “With t-this ring I thee w-wed.”

Silently I slid my gold band onto his ring finger, his having an e/c stone in the center. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride.”

Quickly Jeremiah leaned and captured my lips, Ecco the only one clapping. Everything faded into white noise as I stood there enveloped in the madman’s grip.

This is it.

Beep.

You’re trapped forever.

Beep.

No longer will you be able to be with Bruce.

Beep.

You’ll just be a caged bird for the rest of your life.

Beep.

Living your days as a cooped up housewife.

Beep.

                                There’s no escape...Y/n Valeska.

My newly appointed husband pulled away by a few inches, his breath hot against my lips. We stared at each other in the heat of the moment as Ecco pranced about us throwing flower petals. I was numb as Jeremiah leaned down again and kissed me, his excitement and bliss not reaching my body. “Hurray, Boss! You did it! Congratulations you two!”

As Ecco continued her excited chant Jeremiah pulled away and held me close. I felt a few tears fall as my friend’s disappointment clouded my mind, them struggling in the background. “Come now, Ecco! Let’s take the celebrations elsewhere.”

Jeremiah gently took my hand and led me back down the aisle, him turning back to his minions. “The rest of you kill and destroy.”

“NO!”

I screamed as gunfire rang out and smoke piled into the church, the greenette casually walking us down the aisle as if nothing was wrong. In an attempt to get away I hit my husband several times but he just continued dragging me along. I looked back desperately at my friends who tried to get away, my eyes landing on Bruce. Time seemed to slow as I stared into those dark eyes and memories of my happiness came back to me in waves.

Bedside chats.

   Embraces.

Laughter.

    Dinners together.

Our kiss.

“BRUCE!” I shrieked at the top of my lungs. Don’t let me go.

I heard Jeremiah growl and turn towards the dark haired male, a smirk on his face. “I did it, Bruce! I won! Y/n’s mine!”

He chuckled and raced us out the door, I screaming my true love's name. Suddenly I was thrust into the backseat of a car, it speeding off with Ecco as the driver. My heart beeped in my chest as the two clown’s laughter filled my ears, my body getting hot in my dress. The night sky seemed to twirl as I felt my back collide with seat, my eyes closing. Bruce…

I don’t know how long I was out for but when I woke up I was lying on a couch with Ecco standing over me. She smiled upon realizing I was awake and helped me sit up, my surroundings new and unrecognizable. “W-where are we?”

“Your new home, Y/n! Boss has been looking forever for the perfect place and now here we are!”

I blinked a few times and looked around. The room I was in seemed to be a living room as there were several chairs strewn about and a few picture frames up. The fireplace was currently burning some wood making the room nice and toasty. “Well we better get you upstairs. Mr. J has been waiting for you to wake up.”

Gently, Ecco eased me up off the couch and up the stairs across the hall, stopping us at a door at the end of the right hallway. She opened the door and led me inside, a fire dancing in the center of the far wall mantle. “Boss told me to get you ready for when he comes back and that he’s sorry for leaving you in such a hurry. I guess some business came up that he needed to take care of.”

Delicately she removed the veil from my head and placed it on an armchair in the corner before going to a dresser and pulling out a green nightgown. She returned to my side and helped me out of my dress before slipping the pajamas over my head, onto my body. Humming she picked up my wedding dress and set it over by the veil, returning to me with a hairbrush in hand. She had me sit on a footstool as she sat behind me, tenderly brushing my locks. “We’re all going to be one big happy family after tonight. If something should happen in that body of yours Mr. J will be pleased.”

I froze. I forgot about that part of weddings. My fingers dug into my legs creating marks. As if on cue Jeremiah strode through the door with a smile upon his face. Ecco stood and curtsied, making her way out and shutting the door behind her. I gulped and turned away, flinching when I felt his arms wrap around me. His nose tickled my neck as he gave a content purr, my body shaking at the thought of what was next. “You’re finally all mine, Y/n. No longer will I have to worry about someone stealing you away.”

His hand reached up and slid one of the straps down on my shoulder, I clutching his wrist tightly. “Please don’t.”

“Dearest, you don’t know how long I’ve been waiting for this moment. Imagine how much more happier we could be if you gave birth.”

“I don’t want to! Please, Jeremiah!”

“Shh. You’ll be alright. Everything will be alright.”

I cringed as the other strap fell and I knew instantly that tonight was going to be a long one.

                                “Now...let’s have our date with destiny.”

[02] yes or yes | wje.

o n e  /  t h r e e

summary: jackson wang has been annoying you ever since you started working at the same place as him. when he offers you a deal that ends up with him stopping, there was no other option other than yes. word count: 1,636

a/n: this probably wasn’t what i thought about when i first started this second part but oh well. i hope you like it though and it got longer than i thought lmao :>> theres a part three though i don’t know if it’s coming soon hee hee

You never thought you would be standing next to Jackson Wang, the man you probably despised at this point, at a wedding reception. He was good at pleading and negotiating; so good that it got you in a situation where you were arm in arm with him. You sigh internally and remind yourself you were doing this so he would finally stop bothering you.

But it was bothering you how his arm feels. You find yourself remembering how buff he was that night, and you were sure he was the same (if not more) now.

“Thank you,” he whispers. You tensed at his hot breath, causing him to chuckle and say, “Calm down.”

You wish you could tell him it wasn’t the wedding that made you so tense. You wish you could cling on to him, the only familiar face. You wish he would annoy you so you wouldn’t have to think about how you might have ended up here before, but as the bride and with another man.

You shake your head in an attempt to empty it of all your thoughts. You look at him in the hope of being so pissed that he had managed to talk you into this and forget what you’re thinking in annoyance. It has happened so many times before, so you wonder why you aren’t already irritated by the bright smile on his face as he conversed with other guests. You look away quickly so he wouldn’t realize you’ve been staring.

“Want to get out of here?” he asks as if he could read your thoughts. To be delighted at the possibility or not was a question you would ask yourself later in your life. You prioritize escaping, so you nod eagerly at him. He takes your hand and leads you to the dance floor, then he places his other hand on your waist.

“This isn’t part of the plan,” you say in shock, your body swaying instinctively with his.

He takes a step closer to you and whispers, “It is. It would be less obvious if we dance our way to the other side of the room than if we make a dash for it.”

You pretend to consider it for a moment but you already agreed with him. Slowly but surely, you dance your way across the reception hall, occasionally making little comments about your plan and his dancing.

“You must take a lot of women to these things,” was one of the things you told him.

He was looking down when he replied, “You’re the second.”

You had wanted to ask who the first one was but decided against it. You settled with watching him open the door to freedom, and you slip out in suit of him.

“Air,” he exclaims once both of you were outside. He smiles at you until you give him a thumbs up.

“So what now?”

“We spend the remainder of the night talking about nonsense, of course!” he says before skipping in the direction of the parking lot.

You watch him and sigh. You take off your heels and, holding both in one hand, follow him to his car.

“You made it!” he greets happily, sitting on the back of his car. He scoots over a bit and pats the space beside him, waiting eagerly for you to join him. “It’s a nice view,” he offers kindly.

“It must have been hard for you,” he says once you’ve taken a seat. He eyes the heels in your hands and smiles at you sadly, “Good job.”

You stare at him, trying to decipher any hidden message or teasing from that. When you come to the conclusion that there is none, you simply nod and look away.

He hadn’t been lying; the view is nice. You can’t help but let out a sound of appreciation at it and you see him smile at you from the corner of your eye. “Told you so.”

A moment of silence passes before he speaks up once more, “Let’s play a game!”

“This isn’t part of the deal,” you remind him but he shakes his head.

“Let’s play a game,” he says again, “Yes or yes?”

“Or.”

“Come on!” he whines, bouncing on his car a bit to emphasize his desperation, “I helped you get out without anyone noticing!”

You roll your eyes and cross your arms across your chest but give in. It’s probably going to be a nonsense game anyway, based on what he said before skipping away. “Fine,” you huff out, leaning back, “What game?”

“I don’t know,” he says, shrugging. You give him a sharp look of annoyance and he laughs. “Are you up for some Never Have I Ever? Some Truth or Dare? Or 20 Questions?”

“Those aren’t nonsense games,” you can’t help but say in your shock, suddenly feeling defensive. All of the games he’s mentioned required giving away something of yourself, and you don’t want that.

“They can be,” he argues. “We can play 20 Questions to guess a person or something.”

You still feel uneasy, and he seems to notice it this time. You don’t notice it as you were looking away but his eyebrows creased a bit upon seeing it. “We could play Truth or Dare and have the truth be something like ‘Are you really wearing a dress right now?’” he suggests again in a cheerful tone that contrasts his worried expression.

“Can we not play at all?” you groan. You face him and see him pouting.

“It’ll be boring!” he whines. “The wedding needs to finish before we could go home and end this deal.”

You roll your eyes and add nothing more, choosing to look at the view instead. After a while, he suddenly says, “20 Questions.”

You look at him, surprised he was still pushing through without your agreement. You were more surprised, though, to see he was looking at his hand (posed as a mouth or something) instead. You stifle a laugh and go back to viewing; if you were a fan of his, you would have found this weird thing endearing.

“Is it a person?” he asks himself in a high-pitched tone. He agrees with his normal voice.

“Is it a girl?” he asks again in the high tone. You roll your eyes and face a direction he wouldn’t see you.

“Yes. 18,” he replies. You could not believe you were hearing this.

“Have you known her for a long time? Quite some time, 17. Is she a friend? To me, yes. 16,” he continues. You hope he can’t feel you laughing.

“Do you like her?” he asks again, “Yes. 15.”

This makes your ears perk up. The Jackson Wang has his eyes on someone? That would make a juicy story (to the people you trusted, anyway).

“Why do you like her?” he continues to ask himself. “To put it short, she’s a beautiful maiden. She’s witty and confident. She has an enticing smile and a cute laugh. She’s kind to others and she’s a hardworking employee. 14.”

She must be one of your colleagues, you think to yourself. He would have only noticed that much about her if he saw her often at the office, or if she works for him.

You start thinking about all the female employees his age at the office while Jackson goes on with his game. “Is she your age?” he asks as if he’s read your mind. You refuse the urge to look at him but you nod when he says yes.

“What’s her favorite color? (Y/F/C), 12. What’s her favorite group? Surely not mine, 11. Does she know you? Yes and no, 10. What does that mean? She knows me but she doesn’t know me enough. Something like that, 9.”

You resist the want to ask the questions yourself. “Do you want her to know you? Of course, 8. Have you tried to get her to do so? A lot, 7.”

She must work close with him, you think. Maybe she’s part of GOT7′s management team? One of their stylists?

“Does she have a boyfriend?” You wait for his reply to narrow down your list. It shocked you how much you wanted to know about this woman, even if you’re slowly starting to realize it wouldn’t make much of a juicy story coming from an idol who seems really genuine about his feelings for her. “I don’t think so, 6.”

“Is she one of your stylists?” you suddenly ask, whipping around to face him. You already have a few people in mind so you weren’t able to help yourself.

Jackson had been aware of your eavesdropping, may it be intentional or not. However, he feigns surprise for your sake. With an unsure tone, he answers, “No, 5.”

You frown for a nanosecond as you bring up your mental list once more and cross off all his stylists. There’s silence until you pick up on the expectant look in his eyes and smile in embarrassment. “Uhh, is she part of your managing team?”

“Not GOT7 particulary, 4.”

“Okay,” you huff out as you check your list again. There were still quite a few possible interests; it wouldn’t last the four questions. “Do you talk to her on a daily basis?”

“Yes, 3.” Aha!

“What floor does she work on?”

“Third floor, 2.”

You got it. “Is it Sohee?”

“No, 1.”

You furrow your eyebrows at that. You’ve been sure it was her; after all, she was the only one who fit all his descriptions. Jackson’s eyes are on you as you think again and come up with no one. You had one last question, and you don’t think he would give you a name if you ask for it.

A thought strikes you then. Your eyes widen. “Is it,” you swallow, “me?”

“Yes.”

p r e v i o u s  /  n e x t

I Just Saw the Wicked 2019 Touring Cast and Boy Howdy, am I excited to Rant! (All Good things!)

There's a lot so buckle up your seatbealts!

So, first off, this was my first time seeing the show *cough cough* legally *cough* and I was amazed.

I instantly fell in love with the big metal dragon and nearly screamed when it moved and started blowing smoke out of its nose, as my Grandpa lied and told me, even though he's seen it 4 times, that the dragon was just decoration.

I love that the first solid 5 minutes of the show are just winged monkeys running around on the stage and looking concerned at one another before the opening number starts.

Glinda, played by Erin Mackey, was my WIFE.

During her first speaking part of "No one Mourns the Wicked," she got stuck on her big metal bubble and the ensemble had to crowd around her to help her get off, which, because coming off of the bubble was her cue to continue, led to a really long silence. But it kinda fit and showed that she hesitated to celebrate Elphaba's death so yeah! I just thought it was adorable and I admire how she was able to turn it into a cool window into her character!

When Elphaba, played by Mariand Torres, entered we all screamed for a solid 3 minutes and, after seeing her performance, she deserved a solid 8 more. I loved her so much!

I loved her early performance of Elphaba at Shiz because she played her as an angry little bean that snapped at everyone and everything instead of just shy and quiet and it worked so well, especially with how overprotective she was of Nyssa.

A girl literally faints upon seeing Elphaba and I can relate cause she was SO PRETTY!

Mariand's "Wizard and I" was so powerful and emotional at the same time I just wanted to pick her up and keep her! <3

THE 👏 GLINDA 👏 AND 👏 ELPHABA👏 HEIGHT👏 DIFFERENCE!

Usually you see Elphaba portrayed as tall while Glinda is shorter but, because Mariand was a tiny angel and Erin was a tall goddess who literally towered over Fierro without heels, it was quite the opposite and I l o v e d every second of "What is this Feeling" because of it.

I would die for tiny little ball of angry Elphaba and Tall, regal, princess Glinda holding her back from fighting everyone who dares look at them funny and you can pry them out of my cold dead hands.

Mariand did the thing where she mimicked Glinda for the "Your Voice" line and made it extra squeaky and I died.

She also, whenever Glinda had her back turned, copied her with a stupid little kicking dance and tossed her hair way too frantically and I fell in love.

For the "boo", Elphaba had to look directly up and jump at Glinda because she was so short and I squealed

Oh my God. C U R T. H A N S E N. This man was in Big Time Rush and I can not picture Fierro's entrance without the theme song ever again. (Bruh, Chill)

His choreo also had some "not-so-subtle" scarecrow like poses and taps.

Dude, he played him as such a snotty little twink and I loved it! He almost knocked down the statue in the center like eight times during "Dancing Through Life!"

His mic also made him sound like he was under water for a total of one (1) line and I snorted.

Nyssa, (sorry Mili Diaz, you were incredible and I love you,) Please exit my server.

Glinda made at least 16 Tik Tok references and I know, it's not towards the app because duh, but I'm still very conflicted.

Elphaba was S O mad at the scene with Dr. Dillamond I was so proud and in love!

E L P H A B A ' S D A N C E!

It was so good and pure and when Glinda joined she made it look so graceful!

And Elphaba looked very doubtful at first but then she looked around at everyone doing her dance and back at Glinda and she had the biggest smile on her face and tears in her eyes because she was accepted for something and it was beautiful!

Only Boc's mic was really working at this part so the "Let's DAAAANCE" reverberated deeply into my soul and stayed there for a really long time.

Popular was superb and I literally cried.

Literally.

When Erin got out of breath, she fell on the floor and just layed there for 16 counts breathing really heavily into the mic. Pure Poetry

Glinda suffocated Elphaba with hugs to her throat and swung her around like a rag doll while she just glared angry and helpless.

During "Don't Make me laugh" Glinda pushed her hand into Elphaba's face and gently and slowly set her back on her bed and if that ain't the biggest mood.

So many kicks and giggles I LOVE ERIN MACKEY!

When Glinda fell into Elphaba's arms crying after Fierro ran away at the train scene she took up half of her body and I just needed to write that out.

The egg-like Emerald City suits without arms that extended their necks and twirled them like lassos. Need I say more?

Elphaba's teary smile at "Finally, no one's looking or staring at me!" And then Glinda takes off her glasses and grabs her hand saying that she looked as beautiful as an emerald and... A C K

Upon meeting the scary robo wizard, Glinda got scared and tried to hide her 5'9 body behind little 5'1 Elphie and she looked so protective and ready to throw down I loved it!

Monkeys. Monkeys. Monkeys.

"Let her go! It's not her that you want! Its ME!" She sounded so powerful and angry I would die for her.

The part where Elphaba's begging Glinda to go with her but she's too focused on the fact that she's shaking and ties that spooky cape around her shoulders.

Mariand's "Defying Gravity" was so strong and beautiful with all of her God-tier belts and riffs I could not stop smiling and when she finally flies I yelped because you always hear about how cool it is and looks but then you really S E E it and it's beyond words! I had to do nothing and breathe for a second afterwards to find my bearings!

I loved Erin's "Thank Goodness" a lot. She poured a lot of emotion and beautiful vocals into it and just... god, she's gorgeous!

At the part where Elphaba appeared in the closet in Nyssa's office and the mirror became see through I heard a kid behind me exclaim "Zoo Wee Mama" and I won't be the same.

I don't remember Nyssa being so horrible but... *shrug* She gets it from her Dad I guess.

I love that Boc's reaction to finding out Nyssa can walk is just, "oh, good! Now you can work on this whole walking thing and get tf away from me! This worked out perfectly!" Same, boi.

I loved! LOVED! Nyssa Rose's song with a passion and the way her words get all twisted and angry literally talking about how she's going to rip Boc's heart out for leaving her and it gave me a good amount of spooks.

"Don't say I'm beautiful. You don't need to lie to me." B A B Y

"My Family has a Castle! No one lives there or will see us besides the guards!" "Where do you live, now?" "... The other castle." Oh sweetie.

Glinda, you deserve so much more than scarecrow boy and I would die for you!

Elphaba's voice drops at least 8 octaves during her line in "As long as Your Mine" The "For the first time I feel...

Wicked

I have never been more physically and emotionally attracted to a green lady Other than Princess Fiona

Also, there was so much smoke during that song that I could hear some Orchestra members cough.

During that scene with Elphaba's and Glinda's argument at Nyssa's "Funeral", while preparing to fight Glinda twirls her wand and strikes at Elphie like she came out of the Karate Kid.

Elphaba's witch laugh after Glinda slaps her followed by the most serious "Feel Better?"

Both Fierro and Glinda yell at Elphaba to leave before she gets hurt and I feel things because of that.

While Fierro is fake/real threatening Glinda with a gun, she just tearfully shakes her head in a silent plea and he INSTANTLY drops his gun. I love 'em

The way Glinda's "Fierro" melts into Elphaba's "FIERRROOO!" Love.

"No Good Deed" will always be my favorite song. ITS SO GOOD! Mariand's voice was incredible and her riffs and belts added so much!

During Elphaba's little "let all of OZ be agreed I'm wicked through and through," she makes her voice all scary and raspy, but it melts back into her own voice and beautiful despair at "since I can not succeed, Fierro saving you!"

NO GOOD DEED! 10/10 LOTSA SMOKE

March of the Witch hunters always has and will give me chills. Nothing more to say. Just one good bop.

This is the part where I cry too much.

"For Good" was gorgeous and I cried. A lot. A lot.

Elphaba kisses Glinda's hands and wipes her tears away.

Glinda runs her hands across and straightens Elphaba's hat and OH MY GOD!

It hurts how frantically Elphaba hides Glinda to protect her! Side note, I would also die for Chistery.

At their final moments together, Elphaba blows Glinda a kiss and then proceeds to get "murdered" in a really cool way by Dorthy.

Glinda's "Elphie!?" Is so tragic and panicked I was struggling to make it through, and then she grabbed her hat and cried into it and I was long gone.

Fierro adopts spooky Scarecrow movements at the end which I think is really cool and he also mimics Elphaba's "Don't lie to me!" Line.

Before Elphaba leaves, she becomes entranced by Glinda's beautiful singing, like she's thinking of telling her she's okay, but then she turns around and walks through the door with Fierro.

The last thing we see of Elphaba is her wearing her signature hat and walking into dust with Fierro. The last thing we see of Glinda is her sobbing into Elphaba's book in her bubble.

In conclusion, IM NOT OKAY!

Nah, Fam! But seriously! Mariand and Erin's vocals and performances were to die for! It succeeded my wildest expectations! I had so much fun and would 100% recommend seeing the show if you haven't seen it or want to see it a 19th time. Both are just as valid. :)

Natasha Romanoff Fluff Alphabet - Marvel

Author: Cherry🍒 Requested: Anonymous.

A = Attractive. What do they find attractive about the other?

Your ability to be understanding, honesty and compassion. She sees traits in you that she wishes she had, and being around you slowly helps her to develop those characteristics and she appreciates it more than you could realise.

B = Baby. Do they want a family? Why/Why not?

Natasha isn’t much of a family person and she’s never really thought about starting a family. She’s worried she couldn’t provide a life they would deserve, Natasha also isn’t willing to give up her job anytime soon.

C = Cuddle. How do they cuddle?

She likes to lay on her back with you laying next to her, she’ll intertwine her fingers with yours and hold your hand tightly.

D = Dates. What are dates with them like?

She doesn’t care what it is you two go on a date as long as she gets to be with you. Hearing your voice and the sound of your laugh always makes her day, so as long as she can hear those two sounds then it’s perfect for her. Natasha will typically take you somewhere quiet and serene for a date, like a park or even the beach, it lets her escape the chaotic life she lives and also be with you.

E = Everything. You are my ____ (e.g. my life, my world…)

“You are my whole world, my life, my everything. I couldn’t do this without you, Y/N.”

F = Feelings. When did they know they were falling in love?

Natasha is a very aloof person, never allowing anyone to get too close or know too much about her. She knew she was falling in love when she wanted to share everything with you, every single detail of her life. She wasn’t afraid to open up to you anymore.

G = Gentle. Are they gentle? If so, how?

Natasha is usually gentle. She’d never hurt you, at least not intentionally. She’ll be gentle until the both of you have some privacy where she may become not so gentle.

H = Holding Hands. How do they like to hold hands?

Natasha isn’t really into PDA so she doesn’t often hold your hand out in public, but when going on dates or laying in bed together, that’s when she’ll eagerly hold your hand.

I = Impression. First impression/s?

Natasha noticed almost everything about you when she first met you due to her observant nature. She watched your small nervous habit, the way you looked around Avengers tower in complete awe, and the way you smiled. She was immediately curious about the new member of the team/

J = Joker. Are they into pulling pranks?

Not too much. With encouragement, she’ll happily pull the occasional prank on Clint and Tony, sometimes Steve.

K = Kiss. How do they kiss?

Expertly. She’s a great kisser and she also knows what you like. Natasha will make you weak at the knees and desperate for more of her with just one kiss.

L = Love. Who says ‘I love you’ first?

Natasha waited for you to say it first. She’s reserved when it comes to emotions and so naturally she refused to say it first, fearful that you would turn her away and say you don’t feel the same. But the moment the words slipped past your lips, she enclosed your lips with hers, letting you know in a non-verbal way that she felt the same way about you.

M = Memory. What’s their favourite memory together?

A loud yell echoed through the Avengers tower from the open kitchen, drawing the attention of everyone close enough to hear it. When everyone arrived at the kitchen, they were all extremely surprised by the sight in front of them.

There stood you, Natasha and Tony. Both you and Natasha had cookie dough on your hands and bits of flour all over your clothing. Meanwhile, an angry scowl took over Tony’s expression, from head-to-toe he was cloaked in the white powder. Behind him, you stood on a bench, holding the now empty container.

“Y/N, run!” Natasha and Sam Wilson yelled at the same time. You took off down the hallway with Natasha by your side and Tony hot on your heels. It was one of the rare moments where Natashas playful and joyous side shined through.

N = Nickel. Do they spoil? Do they buy the person they love everything?

She’s not much of a spoiler. But if there’s an anniversary, birthday or some sort of celebration coming up, she’ll secretly buy you the thing she knows you very badly want to surprise you.

O = Orange. What colour reminds them of their other half?

Maroon red. Tony made you a specialised suit that worked well for your abilities. Because of how often she sees you in the maroon suit, she can’t help but think of you when she sees the colour.

P = Petnames. What petnames do they use?

“Beautiful”, “Sweetie”, “Angel”, “Sugar” and “Dearest”.

Q = Quaint. What is their favourite non-modern thing?

Natasha loves old-style dresses from around the 50’s era and she has a small collection of them too. She’ll wear them every now and then especially to Tony’s parties.

R = Rainy Day. What do they like to do on a rainy day?

Natasha likes to bake. It’s not something many people know about her, but she quite enjoys the hobby. She picked up a few recipes and learned how to bake during her time undercover and while she’s been travelling. Whenever she gets a free day, Natasha will go to the kitchen and bake until her heart is content. She’s very good at it too, everything always tastes delicious.

S = Sad. How do they cheer themselves/others up?

Natasha is very withdrawn when it comes to emotions, she won’t willingly open up about them, not at first. She tends to hide her sadness until she trusts you more, then she starts coming to you and she’ll try to talk about it.

T = Talking. What do they like to talk about?

There isn’t one specific thing she likes to talk about, it always changes. She’ll talk about movies, music, TV shows, gossip, books, fashion, and so on. Anything that comes to mind, she’ll talk about.

U = Unencumbered. What helps them relax?

Two things help her relax; a long workout to exhaust her followed up by a hot bath. Natasha will ask you to join her or at least sit in the bathroom and chat with her while she relaxes. Your company always helps her feel at ease.

V = Vaunt. What do they like to show off? What are they proud of?

Natasha likes to show off her resilience. She’s tough and strong, there isn’t much that frightens Natasha. Her ability to keep on fighting in life is something she’s proud of after everything she’s been through she hasn't give up.

W = Wedding. When, how, where do they propose?

She proposed after a brutal mission. Natasha’s head leant against your shoulder from where you both sat down heavily against a cool wall of the Quinjet. She had grabbed your had and interlaced her fingers with yours, loosely holding your hand. Soft panting was all that could be heard in the small aircraft as the Avengers regained their breath. Not a single word was spoken, everyone was beyond exhausted from the battle. The silence that filled the air was relaxing enough to slowly soothe members into a slumber.

That was until Natasha broke the silence, “Y/N?”

“Hm?” You responded halfheartedly, too tired to attempt to form more than that.

“Will you marry me?” she asked unexpectedly, drawing the attention of every single person on the jet, “I thought I was going to lose you during the fight and that scared me. It made me realise that I can never live without you, I want to be with you, no, I need to be with you for the rest of my life. So, will you… will you marry me?”

“Yes,” the word had barely left your mouth before your lips collided with hers in a love-filled kiss. The cheering, clapping and congratulations from the team filled the air, startling both you and Natasha from the kiss.

X = Xylophone. What’s their song?

‘Believer’ by Imagine Dragons. She loves the strong beat in the music, and the meaning behind the lyrics too.

Y = You. You are the ___ to my ___ (e.g. the cookies to my milk, the macaroni to my cheese)

“You are the sun to my blue sky,” Natasha suddenly stated, breaking the calm silence that had settled. Her hands tugged on yours lightly as she led you around the track in the national park. Her eyes were fixated on the horizon ahead of us with the sun shining brightly in front of a beautiful, blue backdrop.

Z = Zebra. If they wanted a pet, what would they get?

Natasha would get a Russian Blue cat. Russian Blue’s are very loving towards their owners and enjoy being around them. Natasha would pick a cat because they’re easy to take care of, don’t demand much attention and they’re small.

Hobbit Day

Hobbit Day

“You can't save her, Mr. Ramon.” You rolled your eyes. The Her they were referencing was you. You were wearing a gray dress. Apparently, it was the color of Gollum. This is the fourth time today the boys acted out a scene from Lord Of The Rings.

“What do you know about it?! Nothing!” Cisco sounded and looked very angry. His face softened up, “I'm sorry, Barry. I don't know why I said that.”

“I do.” Barry said, playing Sam’s part. “It's the Ring. You can't take your eyes off it. I've seen you. You're not eating; you barely sleep. It's taken hold of you, Mr. Ramon. You have to fight it!”

Cisco’s face hardened again. He could have been an actor on another earth.“I know what I have to do, Barry. The Ring was entrusted to me! It' s my task! Mine! My own!

“Can't you hear yourself? Don't you know who you sound like?!”

Barry’s concern melted off of his face when Cisco’s smile returned.

“Dude! We were great!” Barry was dressed in an exact replica of Sam’s costume in the Two Towers. Cisco was dressed in Frodo’s costume, every detail down to a tee. Noooo, he couldn't stop there. He even built a body suit that turns the wearer and their clothes invisible when they put on the Ring. Cisco made it for when the hobbit came out. He had been pranking people with it ever since. Barry didn’t know about it.

S E V E R A L  H O U R S  L A T E R  O N  T H E  R O O F  O F  S T A R  L A B S

“Destroy it!” Cisco was holding the chain with his special ring over the edge of the Star labs building. Barry was standing a few feet away. You were watching the security cameras, ready to teleport if Cisco fell off the building.

“No,” Cisco said turning around with an evil smirk painted on his features, “The Ring is mine.” With that he snapped the ring off the chain and slowly slipped it on his middle finger. Then he swirled out of sight.

Barry looked amazed. “The Fuc-” He was cut off by Cisco’s laughter. You decided to humor the boys this once and join in the fun. You teleported onto the roof behind Barry and jumped on invisible Cisco. You found his hand and wrangled the ring off of his finger.

With a terrible Gollum impression you cried out “Precious!” While dancing in heels, you slipped and fell off the roof.

“Y/NNNN!” Barry cried out. You’ve been meaning to tell the boys about your powers. This should be a decent time. You teleported behind Barry and tapped his shoulder.

“Barr?” You smiled enjoying their shared shocked expression. You did not enjoy the next year and a half of coddling.

N E K H B E T | he isn't used to not being clad in a cloak to be fair, he feels /almost exposed/ in a way. it is odd to mix and mingle at this sort of thing, he preferred to stick to the shadows; but it was never bad to garner connections, so he rightfully couldn't complain. still the thought of sanda mel much less a ball made him want to roll his eyes, he doesn't of course because kael wouldn't but the thought is there all the same. idly he finds himself observing everyone pooling into the ball room before he even tries to interject himself into any groups or conversations. A U R E L I U S | the invite did say one /needed/ a date did they not, to think he doesn't have one...unless one counted the healer perhaps but in the company of others this was simply not viable. still he is here and he is at least ever the happy (if a bit nervous) sort to be around his friends and fellow countrymen. this ball gives him hope that all will be well after everything, he tries to shake off any foreboding feelings otherwise as he enters, looking around to see if he spots anyone he knows. to be honest though when had he ever really converse at these events, he quite felt like a ghost that haunted them more than anything else, he is fine with this though never the less. K H A I L E E | Khai looked only slightly less put together than she usually did for these events. She hadn't had the money to have a new dress commissioned for the ball like she normally would have, so she wore an old one. She also no longer had servants to help with getting her ready, so instead of some elaborate up-do she'd left her hair down. But if anything had survived the invasion and the fire, it was her need for a good glass of wine before the night's festivities could begin. As she was making her way over to get herself some, she brushed shoulders with someone, and upon looking up and realizing who it was she couldn't help but smile a bit. "N--" Remembering his new cover identity, Khai cleared her throat and started over. "Kael. I wasn't expecting to see you here tonight. Do you not have a date?" N A T H A N I E L | his own event, one he figured would be best as the holiday approached and yet he wished to be elsewhere. wasn't that how recent events would go in his position? after being bedridden for so long he'd been granted permission to roam the halls and attend his own festivities. with his cane in one hand, the one that had been gifted to him long ago by a certain ironhaven knight, he gently stepped into his ballroom. he nodded to those who gave him a glance, forcing himself to keep a smile on his face. nathaniel was sure he still appeared quite fragile and bruised but he needed everyone in the kingdom to understand he would not let it kill him. M A G N U S | He really didn't want to go to a ball even less a Sanda mel one, last year he would have found some girl to bring and surely sneak away before the end to go to his room but now he was the king and he couldn't do that, not that he had any desire to do that anyway, but he should go and seem to enjoy it for at least a few hours V I O L A | it is becoming, as the weeks pass and the days slip by, quite harder for the queen to balance upon her feet. but the months have been hard for them all---not least of all for their family, she thinks, fingers tightening around nathaniel’s own---& now is not the time to cower in their rooms, covers pulled up to hide her head. sanda mel is a time for JOY, a time to show all the world that their family has stayed strong. an arm looped through her husband ( to support him, as much as herself ) & her head held high, viola smiles serenely as they walk inside the ballroom. “it looks lovely, does it not?” C L E O | Cleo couldn't believe a whole year had passed already, last year they were in the middle of the war against the pirates and now here they were, everything seemed to finally be able to go right, and everything looked lovely as well L U C R E Z I A  | the moment the night's festivities were announced, there was no doubt in the girl's mind that she would attend. sanda mel was one of her favorite holidays and she wanted to enjoy her time in the bearorian kingdom. she had always dreamed a charming man would sweep her off her feet one sanda mel but as she grew, she had become more accustom to how silly her dreams were. dressed in a beautiful teal with her hair in light curls, lucrezia made her way into the room. A V E R Y | he didn’t see her at first – he was, once again, in it for the free food and not necessarily the company, or so he told himself – but then a casual sweep of the room revealed her, and he stopped to stare for a minute. he had to admit it. she looked damn good. and just the person he wanted to talk to, too. he walked over, offering her a pastry he’d grabbed off a platter. “you’re here.” N E K H B E T | the vulture doesn't see anything wrong with khai, she is as pretty as a picture still and ever effervescent looking in the way she holds herself. had anyone else brushed shoulders into him and he might of found himself slightly annoyed, yet it is her and can't help but offer her a cheeky smile in return when she speaks to him. "I wasn't expecting to be here my lady, yet how could I miss such an event to mingle with the likes of you." He cooed, as if he'd only came there for her, it isn't a complete lie, he had thought she might be here and while he never would hate to see her it hadn't been his complete intentions truthfully. "i don't believe i do, unless someone snares me away that i don't know of." it was entirely possible, he'd probably slept with enough people he figures. N A T H A N I E L | he held onto his wife tightly, the overwhelming feeling of danger filling his chest. big rooms had always made him a bit nervous but his suspicion had grown. as much as he knew he shouldn't have been worried, to have so many ironhaven men in the same room as him bothered him. how many of them had been the ones to bruise and beat him weeks ago? doing his best to pay no mind to the past, nathaniel turned to his wife and smiled. " yes, it does. " a simple response, feeling ease in her company. " if you believe this is lovely, wait until i show you my gifts. " it would be hard to beat the year before, yes, though it hadn't stopped him from trying. K H A I L E E | She rolled her eyes at his cooing, swatting him gently in the arm. But even in the midst of their usual playful banter, she couldn't help the anxiety that clogged her throat. She'd slipped a letter under Matt's door earlier that day and hadn't seen him since, and she couldn't help but be a tad antsy as she awaited his reaction. But Nekhbet of all people could help distract her a bit till he showed up, so she nodded toward the wine and responded, "I'll snare you away, even if it's only for a little while. Come, take a drink with me." L U C R E Z I A | " oh, avery! " she gasped, skipping forward and taking his gift with a bright smile. " sanda mel is my favorite holiday, i wouldn't miss this for the world! if it is a shock for either of us to be here, it is you. " lucrezia takes a bite into the pastry, jam covering her lips. she swallows and clears her throat before defending her words, not wanting for him to take them incorrectly. " oh, but i am glad you're here! a pleasant surprise. " A V E R Y | once upon a time he might have jerked his hand out of her grasp immediately. resistance, however, was something he’d come to know as futile, and not at all necessary, either. “i wasn’t going to stay,” he said, almost defensively. he had the feeling that now he would be. staying, that was. “but you’re fucking right. i’m not here for the holiday side of things, that’s for fucking certain.” P A N D O R A | Before passing through the doors, Pandora smooths down the front of her dress. The dark green hue compliments her skin tone nicely, but the simplicity of the number makes her wants to snub her nose at it. Truly, it's a fine dress that suits her well enough, but it's simply not her taste. Still, despite her unhappiness with her outfit, as she scans the room carefully, she is please to see King Magnus already present. With practiced grace, Pandora nearly glides over to where he stands and offers him a curtsy. " Good evening, your majesty. " N E K H B E T | of course he would get that reaction from her and he quite enjoyed it, he snorts in amusement when she swats at him. something still did seem off though, she hadn't told him and he hadn't yet asked; as usual he was happy to offer her a life distraction at least. his thoughts go back to the notion of a date though, briefly picturing a perfect world where perhaps he could have formally invited hadrian with him. he is happy to be equally distracted from that thought with the presence of khai. he offers an arm to her, nodding his head softly. "Oh it would be a pleasure," He replies back his eyes adverting towards the wine as they head that way. "Now tell me, do you have a date or are all the men in Zenan too cowardly to extend an offer." K H A I L E E | She loops her arm through his, the action as familiar as breathing. It was a routine they'd been following for years now. Her heels clicked as she walked across the stone floors, the sound drifting up into the air and getting swallowed by the chatter and noise surrounding them. "I usually attend these things with Lord Matthias, but..." A quick glance around the room. "I haven't yet seen him." Khai snorted then and added, "And of course, I always have to turn a few unwanted suitors down each year." As they came upon the table with the wine, Khailee released his arm and moved to fill two glasses. Handing one to him, she turned her amused gaze back on his and added, "Oh, and I do believe I haven't said it yet: Happy Sanda Mel." L U C R E Z I A | her face falls slightly at his confession and the nurse struggles to keep somewhat of a smile on her face, not wanting her reaction to be too obvious. of course she would want him to stay, but did /he/ want to? her hand gripped his and her fingers interlocked with his, wondering for a moment if he was disgusted by her actions. " you don't have to be here if you don't want to be. " she reminded him, almost a bit hurt. lucrezia knew how he was and yet, for some reason, she thought he would want to stay. for her, out of all things. how ridiculous was that? maybe it was the holiday or her feelings high on love, but the way she looked at avery in that moment was different from how she usually did. " one of my patients gave me flowers today, maybe i could find him if you'd like to leave. " M A G N U S | Magnus smiled faintly at the girl, "Hello Pandora." He said and really by the tone of his voice it would seem that he was actually having a good time, and maybe he wasn't having a bad night, everything looked great and it was nice that things were returning to a normalcy,but things would never feel the same to him "Are you having fun?" V I O L A | there is a TENSION in his grip, a sort of anxiety in his gaze that makes her press closer, & her fingers squeeze his own. it’s alright, she wishes she could tell him, nothing will happen. if only she could believe it herself. she had /trusted/ octavius. or---she had tried to. who else could there be, lurking in the shadows for a chance to strike. she settles---as she must, for a reassuring smile, lips brushing across his cheek. “you spoil me,” she says, instead, opting for the easier conversation. “you did not need to get me anything, nate. you’ve already given me so much. ---i do have a gift for you, as well.” A V E R Y | she seemed a bit disappointed, and he frowned. "don’t mind stay now. just didn’t much fancy it without–” he nearly said he wouldn’t have fancied staying if lou hadn’t been there. “there’s no good food left. all we’ve got’s conversation. and i don’t know if you knew this, but i don’t want to fucking talk to anyone here ‘cept you. so there’s that.” he’d sort of said it anyway, he supposed, by why not? it was the truth. there was nothing more to it. “not the same patient that got crushed by a horse, surely.” N E K H B E T | it wasn't often that he'd so /willingly/ allowed somehow else to be as close as he had with her, yet khai had seeped into his cracks for so long that they'd had their routines; their second nature habits for one another like now. it is a familiar comfort that this offers him, one he won't admit to or complain about. "what a shame for him," he comments, adding "and a gain for me, at any rate perhaps he will show up." nekhbet gives a gesture of his hand before taking the offered wine once they get to it. "of course, i can't imagine you coming to an event like this with anyone less than wanted. honestly it reminds me of the events we used to attend together." he could hardly forget the nights they'd annoy her husband, it had been amusing for a time. "only now we lack, what was his name again?" he acts as if he can't recall her late husbands name, a jest they had done before. "ah it doesn't matter now." there's a slight laugh and before he knows it the holiday is being brought up. he takes a long sip of the wine, surely he needs it upon the reminder what this ball was about. "happy sanda mel to you as well, although you may be the only person i perhaps mean that towards." another snort this time it's indifferent, he'd mean it to the bard too he thinks, he just tends to hate anything pertain to the idea of love. A N Y A | anya wasn't quite in the mood to celebrate but figured she didn't have anything else to do with her time. she's wearing a simple gown, the black fabric contrasting with her porcelain skin. perhaps, this was a funeral after all ?? she takes a seat at a nearby table and eyes the wine closely before deciding on grabbing some bread. her fingers began picking apart the bread, leaving the crumbs scattered around her. N A T H A N I E L | the king leans into her, his forehead pressed against hers. there is much he has to thank her for and though all the gifts in zenan will not make up for any of it, he of course must spoil her any way he can. " you deserve the best, " he assures, giving her a genuine smile. " ah, you got me something and thought i would not return the favor? " nathaniel leans back and his smile grows into a chuckle, shaking his head. P A N D O R A | She gives a shake of her head as a smile plays at the corner of her lips, " I think it might be too early to decide if I am enjoying myself. " Her eyes wonder for the briefest of seconds to those in the center of the room, socializing, dancing. How nice it would be to freely indulge in this night. " Did you receive anything of note for Sanda Mel ?? " She asks lightly, wondering what his thoughts were of the rabbit foot. L U C R E Z I A  | just as her expression had faltered, there was suddenly a bashful grin back onto her lips. her cheeks had turned a bright red and she couldn't help but gently squeeze his hand. " then you will talk to only me. " she returned, nodding her head. " oh, no, absolutely not. he's a bearorian native and he's very kind, he even asked to escort me to the event tonight. " her heart sped up, wondering if she should admit she only said no because of avery. still, she remained quiet, eyes scanning the room to take in the atmosphere. E M E L I N E | she's been greeting the people of dracborough ( and who else wanted to greet the queen ) but as she finally got a moment to herself, emeline walks out onto the balcony, admiring the sun that began to set. her arms lean against the railing, a chalice of wine in her hand. there was a pit of loneliness in her heart but how could that be solved ?? she feels the faint heat on her skin as she takes another sip of her drink. H E N R Y | knew good and well he was late. but the previous night had been a hard one, with the wolf taking its sweet time, and even staying an hour after the first glow of daybreak. still, henry wouldn't allow his lateness to hinder him from going to the ball - or the bags under his eyes and the limp in his step, from when he'd woken with a deep gash in his thigh. the first thing he did when he entered the ballroom was look for nate, but upon seeing him... busy, henry quickly turned his attention elsewhere to prevent himself from becoming jealous or angry. looking immediately for cleo, he went to her as quickly as he could with the small limp, and smiled warmly at his daughter. "cleo," he greeted, leaning down to affectionately kiss her forehead. "happy sanda mel." C L E O l Cleo smiled widely at her father, she knew that he was probably tired from last night, after all some nights were harder than others at least on her experience and she could see that he was tired "Happy sanda mel... Did you like your present?" She asked smiling "Have you spent any time with your person today?" she asked in a faintly teasing tone so anyone asking would think she was talking about the queen of norden B R Y N | bryn's cheeks were fiery with anger and embarrassment. he'd all but forced himself to come to the ball, if only to keep up appearances now that he was a duke, but he wasn't happy with being there. he'd schmoozed the minimal amount, and downed maybe a few too many goblets of wine. the words of the letters he'd read in lotte's handwriting, praising and doting on silas, were swimming through his mind. knowing he would have to speak with her again at some point (even though their previous conversation on the matter hadn't gone well), the tipsy duke made his way over to charlotte, interrupting any conversation she was having. but before he could speak, his eyes traveled over the immaculately dressed and gorgeous form of his former betrothed. his anger drained slightly, and bryn closed his mouth and looked up to her face. "lady charlotte," he said, his voice a bit husky. he took a few steps towards her - maybe a little too close to be a friendly stance - and tried not to smile... he /was/ supposed to be angry, right? "you look... look... well, you look ravishing." A V E R Y | avery couldn’t help but feel a bit pleased that lou had turned the bearorian down. and a little resentment towards the man, whoever he was. he told himself it was merely out of concern for lou’s sanity. avery couldn’t think of anything worse than being handed flowers and asked to go to parties. then again, he was pretty damn sure lou didn’t feel the same way. “fine with me. let me know if you ever want me to scare him the fuck off.” K H A I L E E | She smiled again at his flattery but found her mind wandering back to Matt once more. He usually beat her to these events and would find her in the crowd somewhere when she finally walked in, but she hadn't seen him yet and the thought of his not attending because of something she'd said in her letter was almost unbearable. Khai bit her lip for a moment thinking about it but, remembering how observant Nekhbet had always been, forced herself out of the involuntary action and tried to refocus on their conversation. She smiled again as he pretended to forget her old husband's name, remembering all the fun they used to have toying with him when they were younger. "Ah, yes, such a tragedy he couldn't be here tonight. I truly don't know how I've managed to go on without him all this time." Khai raised an eyebrow at his final words. "I'd better be." She took a sip of the wine and after a moment of contemplation found herself saying, "I was going to slip a note into your chambers but I feared someone else finding it first. I didn't want to risk exposing you in any way." Her words were low and quiet, only loud enough for him to hear. "But what I was going to say in that note is that I'm very happy I've had you around all these years." It was a singular moment of affection, one she knew he needed from time to time even if he wouldn't admit it to either of them. N A T H A N I E L | as he breaks away from his wife, he stumbles around the room, nodding his head in the direction of his guests. there are few people he wants to speak to and while one of them is preoccupied, another is standing on his balcony. he makes his way outside, joining queen emeline and he's suddenly disappointed to not be holding a drink. " happy sanda mel, your grace. " he greets, steadying his balance by holding onto the edge of the stone siding. C H A R L O T T E | Charlotte had always loved any type of balls, though her enjoyment of them had dwindled with all the things that had happened recently, but this one felt like old times, well almost, back then she would be around Niamh, Pollux and Silas talking about how silly some people looked. She had arrived with Silas but she moved away as fast as she could. She was now talking to a friend of her mother when they were interrupted by Bryn, and a wide smile formed on her face, she had wanted to see him all day. "Thank you, your grace. You look very handsome yourself.." H E N R Y | Henry smiled easily, the tension left in his shoulders from the day melting away in the presence of Cleo - as it always did. His smile only widened when she mentioned his gift, and he moved the robe from his side to show her the dagger, sheathed on his belt. "Gods, yes. It must be the most beautiful blade I've ever seen - and I've seen quite a few... and maybe a bit too closely." He moved his head enough to show her the now old scar on his cheek, courtesy of the pirates. He chuckled, though, and continued. "Thank you, darling. It means the world to me." His smile faded when she spoke of his person, and while he tried not to steal a glance at Nate, he shook his head. "Not as of yet," he said. "The queen is a very busy woman." M A G N U S | I "Ah well usually this parties are quite fun...is the first time coming to one?" He wasn't surprised since she wasn't nobility and it was only recently that it seemed everyone was invited no matter the rank. "I liked the present by the way thank you...you liked yours?" L U C R E Z I A | she giggled at his offer and while she would never agree to such terms, to have avery offer such a thing warmed her heart. maybe he did it out of jealousy or kindness, or maybe it was an excuse to punch another man in the face. either way, she decided it was best not to think too much into it. then, suddenly, she questioned if turning down the bearorian was a mistake. whenever she was nervous, lucrezia had a habit of rambling and letting her thoughts get the best of her. unfortunately, her nerves were as high as the clouds. " avery, " she began, tilting her head, speaking quickly. " would you have cared if i agreed to his date? " C L E O I Her smile only grew when he said he liked his present "I send it to have it made almost a month ago" She sighed and her smiled faltered when she saw the scar on his face, her father getting kidnapped and hurt by those pirates had been easily the worst moment of her life, she would take getting poisoned again before something like that ever happening again. "Well yes, but I am sure that she is very excited to spend time with you, it is Sanda Mel after all." P A N D O R A | finds herself nodding at his words. " Yes, " she says. " Any advice for a newcomer ?? " Her smile grows wide. For some reason, the comment makes Pandora feel exceptionally pleased with herself. " The flowers were from you ?? Yes, they were lovely. Thank you. " E M E L I N E | she hears a clink on the floor along with labored breathing before she turns her head to greet the stranger. as it turns out, it was no stranger; instead, a dear friend. "aye, i suppose it's meant to be happy ?" perhaps she shouldn't have had a glass of wine before the ball as well. "happy sanda mel, nathaniel. you look brilliant. 'ave you seen henry ?" she was being a bit too loose with her words but there were scattered people on the balcony, especially when the king and queen began talking, many seemed to leave out of courtesy.   N E K H B E T | perhaps she had been thinking of whoever this lord matthias was, he could hardly blame her to be honest; he'd thought of hadrian himself. still she could have merely had a great number of things on her mind, given whatever happened back in her homeland. he wanted to pull the answers out of her still, like pulling strings from a frayed shirt or rather moans from her lips as he had done in the past. there might have been a time when he was more disgusted at himself for feeling fond of her, wanting to help her even; now is not that time, not anymore. "easily i'm sure." he chuckles, he would have killed the man sooner to be fair for her, if it wouldn't have cause problems for his work relationship with her father. "why you're still the only one who knows my name even, who else would i wish such things on this day. " his voice is also a hushed whisper, although this ball is so loud he doubts anyone would hear that anyway, not that it matters without context. "well i thank you, also should i be offended that you think i have people in my chambers?" it's an obvious joke, mostly because she knew as well as he did just how he was. still he grows quite for a moment at her admission, his face slightly flushing crimson for only a second. "i'm," he pauses another sip of his wine being swallowed down. real admissions had always been hard to him, it was easier to hide them is jests. "i'm happy as well, after everything in ironhaven if i hadn't found you, i think my world would have been rather bleak." M A G N U S I "Dancing and drinking seem to be the best things to do do have fun, and there is a lot to drink or so I've heard." Surely she would find someone wanting to dance with her easily, she was very pretty and tonight she looked great "Ah yes, i suppose i should have signed it." B R Y N | Upon hearing her voice, Bryn no longer saw or heard anyone else in the ballroom. There was just them, and even though he had been angry, he couldn't find a reason to continually be mad at someone he loved so much. Lost in the moment and overcome with wine and forgiveness, Bryn all but ignored her compliment. Instead, he took her by the waist and pulled Charlotte against him and pressed his lips down on hers without a thought. N A T H A N I E L | " it is. " he assured, nodding, letting out a breath. " i look terrible, but i do appreciate you trying. i have seen him with his daughter and yet, i have not spoken to him. the less i can be seen with this cane, in my state, the better. " he referred to the balcony, looking out over his kingdom for a moment. " i am sure you've received hundreds of gifts from men, women, and citizens alike. " C H A R L O T T E | She was taken by surprise, of all things she didn't expect him to just take her and kiss her, not that she was complaining but they were surrounded by people. But the moment his lips met hers she forgot about the world around them and she kissed him back her arms around his neck L E V I | he was fashionably late he thinks, although that might have ever been the /only/ thing fashionable about him; not that he looked bad he just really thought he looked better out of such formal clothing, his hair was still messy as ever however and his expression someplace between happiness and trepidation. he'd spotted many familiar faces as well as many not so familiar ones, he didn't know where to start either; they all seemed rather busy either way. A V E R Y | what kind of a question was that? avery felt caught. it seemed lou knew him: he couldn’t imagine the question being that much of a coincidence. trouble was it was difficult to come up with a satisfying answer. no was too final, and definitely a lie. yes carried implications. he wasn’t sure he liked all the implications. there were some, though, that again almost rang true.   “sure. what of it?” P O L L U X | Unlike his usual behavior, Pollux had been minding his own business. On a day like Sanda Mel -- a day of happiness and love -- he found it was always best to allow the world to work as it would. However, as he spoke to an old duke about his land investments, Pollux found his gaze wandering. Almost immediately, he saw Brynjolf and Charlotte together. His interest was piqued. With Silas nowhere to be seen, Pollux knew he had to do something. Giving a hasty goodbye to the duke, Pollux quickly stepped to the center of the ballroom, wanting to put a stop to whatever it seemed was about to happen. Unfortunately, he was paces away when the two of them kissed. Affronted, Pollux put grabbed for Charlotte’s arm to pull the two of them apart. " What the hell are you doing ?? " He demanded, shocked. B R Y N | The kiss was warm and comfortable, and it felt natural; and it was not soon to be forgotten -- by more people then just them. It was only a moment before Charlotte was pulled from Bryn's arms, and he immediately met the gaze of Pollux. Oh, Gods. "Kissing the woman I love," he hissed lowly, taking a step closer to Pollux and attempting to take Lotte's arm from the Prince's grip. "I'll thank you to let go of her, aye?" P A N D O R A | " I'll have to find the refreshments table then. I doubt I'll be doing very much dancing. All the good partners seem to be taken. " Taken, or standing off to the side. " It might've helped. The gesture was kind. In truth, I had not expected to receive anything. Do you send flowers to everyone in your kingdom ?? " L U C R E Z I A | the woman gave a slight shrug, her mind spinning. had she overstepped? should she have left things unspoken? what if she was about to make a fool of herself? " you are saying that if i was to come here tonight with another man, you would care... as in, not want me to be with another man. " she stated, tilting her head and ignoring eye contact as she rambled on. " if you would not have wanted me to attend tonight with /another/ man, then, perhaps... you would want me to attend with you? which, i suppose i did, as we are here, together? yet, not /together/, but we are talking together. i... " lucrezia closed her eyes and let out a sigh, trying to make sense of the scrambled thoughts in her mind. " is it too late to ask you if you would attend the event with me? as in, a sanda mel date? i understand that these events are not a favorite of yours and i do not know if you even consider me a friend, yet my offer still stands. " her cheeks are red as she awkwardly stares at the floor, waiting for a response of any sort. C H A R L O T T E | Charlotte was returned by reality abruptly for a moment she wanted to snap at whomever pulled her away from Bryn, but she intimidatingly remember where she was, not to mention the one grabbing her arm was Pollux and she just knew...this was bad "Pollux...I..." E M E L I N E | "nonsense, nathaniel." a roll of her eyes follows her statement. her hand grasps his, squeezing it tightly. "you may as well be the most handsome man here. viola," her voice drops to a whisper. "and henry are both lucky to have you." at his next assumption, she lets out a boisterous laugh, thank gods for their lack of an audience. "you couldn't have been more wrong." but her head whips around to the commotion going on inside and instantly sees pollux' face. "what is happening ?" she leaves her chalice on the railing before entering the ballroom to where pollux stood. "what is going on here ?" A N Y A | her bread suddenly seems less interesting but still keeps it in her hand as her attention is caught by the tense conversation happening in the middle of the ballroom. there's a certain prince that she spots-- along with silas' soon-to-be wife. with furrowed brows and the bread, she joins them, grabbing the prince's arm gently. "charlotte ? where's-- where's silas?" L E V I | In one fell swoop he spots his friend in what seems to be a sudden heated exchange, he also spots his queen and a few other people he fails to recognize. of course levi approaches the scene, concerned at the louder voices and the crowd gathering. "i could say the same thing," he chimes in with emeline, eyeing the scene. P O L L U X | His eyes narrow as Bryn's words cut over Charlotte's. His grip tightens around her arm. He doesn't want to hurt her, it's more of an involuntary action. " No one was talking to you, you -- " His words cut off as he hears Emeline's voice and her feels someone touching his arm. " Charlotte, " he says sharply, his gaze refocusing, " you are engaged to Silas. " E M E L I N E | despite being ignored-- or perhaps unseen due to pollux' blatant anger-- she understands the situation all too clearly now. and her gaze goes directly to bryn. making her way over to him, her hand comes up to give him a blow behind his head before she can stop it. "brynjolf !" N A T H A N I E L | he lets out a calmed sigh, a feeling of safety and warmth as his friend squeezes his hand. she has always been one of the most important people in his life and he owes her many thanks for the everlasting support she has always showed him. " i am much more lucky myself... i don't know what i'd do without either of them. " he responds, a small smile unable to be hidden. " then by the gods, they have no idea of what beauty they are missing. " to know emeline is still an unmarried woman is shocking to him, yet he knows her kingdom will always come before a man. at the distraction of something happening, nathaniel grips his cane and makes his way back inside, slowly but surely. he is in no position to handle such a situation. " is there something the matter here? " B R Y N | Bryn was seething, and his breath was heavy with anger and wine. He waited for Pollux's insult, but when it didn't come, a smirk formed on his lips. "Just say it, you coward," he spat, taking yet another step towards the prince and making to grab his arm. Just as his hand wrapped around Pollux's arm, however, he feels a smack on the back of his head. His head turns and he meets the gaze of Em, and his cheeks darken immediately. "Your majesty," he said, turning again to notice Nate joining the gathering crowd. He looks back to Pollux, and with great effort, he lets go of his arm and waits for his punishment. C H A R L O T T E | Charlotte's face was growing red, and as more people surrounded them she was even having trouble breathing, she loved Bryn and she wished she could be with him openly but she was still engaged and everyone that knew her was here. "Pollux...your majesties.." P O L L U X | He releases her arm as Nate speaks. Pollux curses under his breath. " Nothing, " he mumbles, sounding like a child who knows he's about to get lectured. He finds himself slowly backing away from the pair, almost hiding behind Anya's skirts. L E V I | just what the hell was going on, levi felt so out of the loop, he was usually so perceptive but this time it took him longer to put two and two together, and when he did...perhaps because he thought the best of bryn; either way he still did. "perhaps there is a better time ta' settle things-" he implores his friend to listen, he'd back him up but...the matter stood there were kings and queens getting involved and this didn't bode well. S I L A S | He had went outside for a moment to talk to his father, when he returned he frowned when he saw a group of people that were obviously having a problem, his frowned deepened when he saw who were there, he approached his best friend and Charlotte "What is going on" Hie finally saw Bryn and he now had an idea still he wanted to know "Charlotte, darling. May you tell me what is going on?" A N Y A | suddenly, there is a king and a queen in front of her. her eyes are widened with shock and she wants to hide the bread-weapon before she can be thrown in the dungeon for the potential harm she was going to cause. she feels the prince shift behind her and she feels all the more exposed. but her gaze softens as silas joins them and her frown deepens. "silas, my lord--" she greets but what is there to say ? how do you tell someone their fiancee is cheating ?? B R Y N | The voice of a friend calmed Bryn only a little. His gaze traveled to Levi, and his words rung true - he would only get thrown in the dungeons for harming the prince. He nodded and gave Levi a look that said 'perhaps you're right,' but just as he began to back up, he saw Silas enter the room. Suddenly, all rational thought was gone, and he rushed over to him with a heavy step. "Let us settle this," he said, his voice quiet but heavy with bitterness and anger. "Once and for all." S I L A S | Silas stared at Charlotte for a moment before looking at Bryn again as he came closer, he knew best as to try and fight someone when the king and a queen were next to them "Settle what? " He looked at Pollux "Would you tell me what is happening and why does he wants to fight?" P O L L U X | " Because, " he said, stepping forward just a tad, " this asshole was kissing your fiancée. " Gods above, he regretted giving Brynjolf the benefit of the doubt. He couldn't believe he almost allowed him at his wedding. E M E L I N E | her arms crossed over her chest in confusion and agitation but her eyes eventually drift to levi who also seemed interested in the commotion. but she doesn't let her gaze dwindle on him for too long, no, because bryn decides to take a threatening step towards a duke she's never seen before. perhaps, the fiance of the woman before them ? "bryn, you need to calm down." she gives levi a look along with a nod to hold the duke back, hoping he understood what she was implying. C H A R L O T T E | "please..." She said weakly the last thing she wanted was to Bryn to get in trouble by trying o fight Pollux and Silas and they were surrounded and people were watching and she knew word of this would get to her parents N A T H A N I E L | in all the nonsense, as his brother talked, it dawned on him that he had no matter in the situation. he would be a hypocrite to say anything about what brynjolf had done. yet, it was public knowledge now and it was something he could not tolerate to escalate anymore. " brynjolf, stop this immediately! " he hissed, slamming his cane onto the ground. A V E R Y | lou startled him out of keeping an even expression; by the time she’d finished speaking he was looking rather shell-shocked. that she was staring at the floor seemed like something of a blessing. it wasn’t as if he’d had no part in the direction the conversation had gone in. the thing was– “the fuck, lou,” he said. it was instantly regretted. “i hadn’t thought about it,” he confessed. “or any shite like that.” he frowned, and tried out an answer: “yeah. i would.” it felt right. “don’t know what a fucking date is supposed to be like. that’s on you.” B R Y N | Fists clenched and jaw grinding his teeth together, Bryn was all but panting with emotion. He's eerily close to throwing a punch when Em's words reach his ears, and she whips his head to look at her. "Your majesty," he said, his voice transforming to a calm tone, though it shook with anger. He nearly said something else, but the sound of Nate's cane slamming onto the stone sent a chill down his spine - he'd never seen the king so angry. He looked back at Charlotte for a moment, his eyes widening slightly in guilt. He shouldn't have started this mess. A N Y A | suddenly, this was all the more overwhelming to witness. the duke was in silas' face and perhaps anya should've thought about her actions before following through. but with a clenched fist full of bread, she gives a blow to the man, coming to silas' defense. L E V I | levi takes a step closer, trailing after his friend, placing a /firm/ hand on his shoulder. "there are other ways ta' handle this, i'll will help you if i can mate, but this has ta' stop, come on mate why don't we take a walk..." he doesn't want to see something happen to bryn, doesn't want his anger to get the better of him. S I L A S | Silas had to take a very deep breath not to lose control and his temper right then and there, he suspected there was something going on, he wasn't stupid but that he kissed Charlotte in front of everyone, that was too much. he blinked when he saw Anya hit Bryn, with a lot of bread in her hand, it was nice to know she was on his side. "I...think this is not the time for this...Charlotte, I think we should go out and talk." He is practically giving an other he looks at Pollux "will you come with us? " He asked as he grabbed Charlotte’s arm

P O L L U X | As Anya threw the bread at Bryn, he found his jaw falling open. The smile wasn't lost on his face, however. She was a force to be reckoned with. Despite the humor of the situation, Pollux kept his eyes on Silas. He was worried for his best friend. At the look from Silas, he grimaced. " If you'd like me to, " Pollux said. He wasn't entirely sure why he was needed, but if Silas needed him, he would go. B R Y N | Bryn was at the point of dizziness from both the wine and constant swiveling. This time, the duke turned to see a woman who had just... hit him with bread? "What in the gods' name ??" He stared at her, flabbergasted and becoming more and more angry. "Who the hell are you?" He asked, before he could stop himself. Then he felt a firm hand on his back, and turned yet again to see Levi. He looked at him skeptically, but upon glancing around at the crowd, he nodded in agreement. When Silas grabbed Lotte's arm, though, he grabbed Silas's. "If you so much as hurt a hair on her head, you will live to regret it - I swear to the gods above us." He let go, hoping he grabbed him hard enough to bruise. With one more glance at Charlotte, he smiled slightly at her and looked back to Levi. E M E L I N E | gods how had this happened ?? but as the tension begins to fade, her eyes catch sight of the woman between this all. her anger dissipates but she sends a deathly glare to the woman for her unladylike actions. of all days, she chose the day of love to cheat ? surely, there was no hope left in the world. but as levi grabs bryn, she gives a nod his way to show her thanks before her interest lacks and she is back off to the balcony to retrieve her wine and continue on with the lonely night. C H A R L O T T E | Charlotte seemed to have lost the ability to talk but as Bryn grabbed Silas she knew that she had to say something before a fight did broke out "Please...just stop." She looked at Nate "I'm sorry your majesty this is my fault." She looked at Anya, Pollux and Bryn's friend before sighing "Fine let's go" At least the distance would make them stop fighting L E V I | he looks towards emeline momentarily, as if to assure her he had the situation under control, he didn't but he was trying. the closer he got to bryn the more he realizes that he'd probably been drinking, nothing ever good from women and alcohol; it was like water and oil and he knew the feeling all too well. bryn yells at him but levi takes it all in stride, he knows it's not bryn, knows he doesn't mean it. he offers a smile in return it's soft and concerned, this is no time for laughter like usual.   "he won't hurt her," levi assures, he doesn't know the situation but he glares daggers at silas all the same. "tha' i am sure o', why don't ya' come with me, alright? fresh air might do ya' some good, ya' can think about this all when there's less people." less assholes he wants to add as he idly looks to silas. L U C R E Z I A | her lips began to tremble and she blinked back tears as the nurse waited for avery's response. she was absolutely terrified. what if she had ruined everything? at his cursing she sucked in a deep breath and glanced up at him with a pout. " i'm sorry. " she apologized quickly, her face bright red. through the whole scene they'd been holding hands and as he spoke, she immediately pulled both of her hands behind her back. it was as if she'd been scolded for doing something she shouldn't have been doing. in truth, she wasn't sure what she was doing. " i... i don't know either. i just, you know, it's sanda mel and... i like you, avery. " her words are quiet and she presses her lips together, nerves at an all time high. K H A I L E E | She had to resist the urge to roll her eyes again at his joke, but in the end she settled for an amused shake of her head. As she took another sip of wine, she noticed the red tint in his skin. She knew this outright affection was as strange to him as it was to her, but still, she couldn’t help but poke fun at him: “Why, Nekhbet, I do believe I’ve made you blush.” As she spoke, she butted her hip into his softly, a hint of laughter on her lips. “Of course it would’ve been bleak. I’m a breath of fresh air, darling.” Khai’s mind went back for a moment, back to a past that was so long ago that it felt like it was another life entirely: nights spent at Kradaecan balls, Nekhbet at her side, her family surrounding her and her husband’s face turning red as they teased and tested him. It all used to be so much simpler, and she’d taken it all for granted. What was worse was that she still hadn’t even told this man whom she trusted so much what had happened to her. She opened her mouth to speak, but just as the words fluttered up into her throat, they got trapped. Her lips shut, reopened as she tried again, and then shut once more. She hadn’t said any of it aloud before and wasn’t sure she’d be able to now. N A T H A N I E L | he lets out a groan, jaw clenched as his gaze goes back and forth between those in the crowd. can not one night be off limits to the dramatics? the king hears charlotte's apology and yet says nothing, disappointed with the way his citizens have acted. he wants to speak to his brother but instead watches him go with charlotte and silas. " you have all had your entertainment for the night, go back to enjoying your sanda mel. " he announced to those that looked on. with an exhausted sigh, he lifted his hand to rub his beard. B R Y N | Bryn's breathing had not swallowed nor slowed. But he followed Levi all the same, glaring at Silas for as long as he could before the three disappeared on the balcony. "Levi," Bryn whispered, walking away from the scene with his friend. "I must hear what they say. I have to know." His eyes widened in question, as if to say 'will you help me?' S I L A S | Silas needed Pollux to be there because he knew if his friend wasn't there he would really lose it and that wasn't a good idea. once they were out side he took a deep breath "So, you decided to put out a show in front of everyone we know, on Sanda mel. How could you Charlotte, if Pollux hadn't stopped it I would have returned to see you kissing him? I get you're infatuated with him but I am your future husband and I would think that after so many years together I would deserve some respect." He took a breath A V E R Y | “well, shit, lou. i like you too.” when she had her hands entangled with his he rarely payed it any mind, but when she pulled them away her absence was always felt. tonight was hardly an exception. he reached out and took them back. “it’s–” if someone had told him, the night before, that all this would happen if he showed his face at the sanda mel celebration, he would have called them bloody mad. “fuck it,” he said, and kissed her. P O L L U X | He leaned against the wall, awkwardly bearing witness to this conversation. He agreed with all of Silas' points. The way Charlotte had acted tonight was horrifyingly disrespectful. H A D R I A N | Hadrian was sure that he’d never stop hating himself for how long it took him to finally convince himself to come to the ball. He was /nervous/... he didn’t get nervous. That wasn’t normal. And he usually quite enjoyed the holiday itself - it had never meant much to him, personally, but he was admittedly always interested in other people’s love lives. But the very reason he thought he might be so strangely nervous was also the reason why he /had/ to go. So he arrived, horribly late but he was /there/ (and he hadn’t missed the opportunity to dress up, of course). He didn’t care much for mingling just yet; he wasted no time locating his /friend/... who seemed to have a friend of his own nearby. “Well. Fancy meeting you here,” he said as he came up behind the pair. L E V I | he hadn't expected bryn to ask such a thing from him, he didn't have the heart to tell him now, he did however had the sense to in some form; in the end he decides on a compromise. "listen mate, i'll go listen, ya' don't need ta' be in tha' middle o' that right now, i'll tell you what i hear when things have calmed down tomorrow, tha' sound fair?" he eyes him, he thought bryn might go listen if he didn't stop him; thinking it was better for someone not drinking to handle the situation; gods only know what might happen if bryn heard something he didn't like. C H A R L O T T E | "I did not planned this okay...and honestly is not like I am happy anything of that happened, you think I wanted to create a scene where even the king was there?" Finally she was able to talk. "You know that things changed and you know I have feelings for him and things will be much better if we just stop this. I know that by now the only reason you want to marry me is because you don't want someone else to have what you think is yours because let's be honest Silas we don't love each other anymore...maybe we never did, and I really don't want to marry you. We would just be terribly unhappy." A N Y A | after silas and pollux left, anya suddenly felt silly for intervening. the group dispersed and she was alone once more, on sanda mel. her thoughts drift to lucien and wonder what he's doing ?? had he gotten her gift ?? but as her thoughts take over, her eyes catch a pair of lips that she didn't think would be together, kissing. a large squeal erupts but she doesn't want to ruin their moment. at least someone was having a happy sanda mel. she takes a bite out of her bread, chewing it angrily and with frustration. B R Y N | bryn's fogged mind mulled over levi's offer for a moment. while he wanted to hear what was said himself, he trusted levi to tell him the truth. then again... if he waited to hear it, he might not be able to act as soon as he'd like. but, bryn concluded, if it was something that needed to be acted upon, he would have time to plan. and so bryn nodded, his lips pressing together in cooling anger. "aye," he said, nodding. "you're not wrong." he pulled a smirk onto his lips for a moment, patting levi's shoulder sloppily and making a head motion towards the balcony. "listen close and remember well, aye?” L U C R E Z I A | her blushing was accompanied by a small smile, one she attempted to hide as she bowed her head. for someone who had expected her words to reap awful consequences, the situation had turned out quite nicely. at least avery didn't hate her. she glanced up at him, about to speak, when his lips were quickly pressed against hers. her heart jumped in her chest and her stomach was filled with butterflies. it was something she never felt before and it was incredible. she pulled back, for a moment, to look at him with shock. though, to assure him she was thankful of his actions she took her hands away from his once more, only to cup them against his cheeks and pull him back into another kiss. P Y R O S | His brother-in-law was an idiot, that much was obvious. Starting a fight on Sanda Mel was a stupid ass choice. However, he figured there was enough of a crowd and found himself sitting away, close the the refreshments so he could healthily munch away. He is surprised to see Anya coming out from the dispersing crowd. " What happened there ?? " Pyros asks in amusement as he moves to sit closer to her. S I L A S | He couldn't stop his anger anymore and he went and grabbed her by her arms, he didn't care right now if he hurt her. "Things changed because you wanted them to change, because you can't move on from a stupid mistake that you don't want to remember you were part of it too, as was Pollux and Niamh and still it seems all your issues are directed at me. And now you want to be with that fucking stable boy because it reminds you of how things were when you were young and innocent and dumb." He was yelling at her. "You don't love him Charlotte you'll get bored of him soon enough but we we have been together for years now, and maybe if you stopped acting like you are a saint you would see that too." He laughed "Never? For fucks sake Charlotte, is that what you tell yourself so you feel better about what you have been doing?" N E K H B E T | she hadn't made him blush, nope he wouldn't admit it even if she had, even if he believed her; part of him does. "somehow i don't think that would be the one thing you've ever said to me, to make me blush." he has to stop himself from practically waggling his eyebrows suggestively, instead he gets a very cheeky sort of look; plasters it on his face like a mask. he refuses to blush again, absolutely refuses (as if he can control it). he'd almost forgotten how nice it was to spend time with the women, oh how he'd missed it and the little hip butt doesn't go unnoticed with him. "that you are my dear, that you are." he agrees with her, when doesn't he usually though. she seemed as though she wanted to say something, had he managed to get her to speak of what happened back home? tugged at her memories with ones they once shared, she shuts her lips though as soon as the all too familiar bard arrives. it an instant nekhbet has to compose himself from grinning almost stupidly, the things this man does to him rivals many. he opts for a still devilish smile all the same. "hadrian, i'm glad you decided to come, i was hoping to see you." he's especially glad to see him all dressed up and looking as /delicious/ as ever. it takes him a moment, before he realizes that introductions are probably in order. "hadrian, this is lady fell, khai this is hadrian." he hadn't thought about khai not knowing that hadrian knew of him. A N Y A | anya's eyes widen at the presence of pyros before trying to calm her composure. he knew of the baby, what was she scared of ?? "a cheating whore, i suppose ??" it's not as if she had anything against the woman, other than the fact that she /did/ just cheat on her fiance in front of everyone. "i hit someone with bread," she mumbled, taking another piece to nibble on it. "again." she was relentless, especially with bread. "i received your gift. thank you, pyros." her hand reached out to give his a squeeze along with a smile. P O L L U X | He realizes now, as Silas' voice raises, that his role was meant to be the adjudicator of the fight. " Silas !! " Pollux shouts as he grabs Charlotte. His anger is warranted, but the abuse is not. " That's enough, " he says sternly, a hand on his best friend's shoulder. The words also sting Pollux, a little bit, but he knows the reaction is wrong. P Y R O S | He gives a low whistle. " Was the Charlotte ?? I always thought they deserved each other -- Silas and Charlotte, I mean. They both seems so... shallow. " That was, ignoring the fact that Pyros himself lacked any depth. He gives a loud snort. " Again ?? Who do I need to punch this time ?? " At the mention of his gift, Pyros grins. " I'm glad. I made it myself. The painting is nice. I like it a great deal. " K H A I L E E | Khai knew he picked up on her hesitation and knew she'd probably have to answer for it later, but she was forced to wipe her face clean of all anxiety when another man came up. She recognized him, and as Nekhbet introduced them officially, she pursed her lips. Khai held a hand out in greeting as she said, "I do believe we've met before, but it's a pleasure seeing you again." And then, just to the side of Hadrian's face, she spotted Matt in the distance and her heart leaped into her throat. She swallowed hard and tried to collect herself as she glanced back up at the two men before her and dismissed herself. "I believe my date has just arrived, so if you gentlemen will excuse me." She bowed gracefully and then stepped away from them, her feet carrying her in Matthias's direction. But halfway there, she stopped suddenly, unable to move further. Had he read her letter? What did he think of her now? Would he even want her if she wasn't a Lady anymore? A million troubled thoughts swirled around in her brain as she stood there, motionless, eyes glued to the only man that had ever made her truly feel anything. C H A R L O T T E | she stares at Silas and she can feel her eyes beginning to sting as the tears begin to form. "It wasn't just that... though you know that the one that started all that was you." She takes a deep breath as he keeps talking. “ And is not just that, feelings can change..." Didn't Pollux love Niamh more than anything in his life and now he loved Sybill... though of course Niamh was dead.. "Okay fine maybe we did but can you honestly say we do now?" B R Y N | He was smirking at Levi still when he saw it, in the corner of his eye. All smiles gone, he screamed out before he could stop himself, "SILAS!" With no thought or control, he pushed through the crowd and grabbed Silas by the shoulder, spinning the duke away from Charlotte. He warned him; if he hurt her, he would regret it. Bryn stepped back and balled his fist, putting all of his weight and muscle into a punch that hit Silas square in the jaw. POLLUX | As Bryn comes bursting through, Pollux' jaw drops. Fucking. Drops. What the ever loving shit is happening. C H A R L O T T E | "Bryn!" She screams as she sees him running towards them "Pollux...do something.." L E V I | he'd merely wanted to have a nice evening, he didn't regret helping bryn for a second of course but this was not his idea on how the evening would go. "if anything is ta' happen i'll step in, /i promise./" he assures his friend, but before he can say anything else bryn is already spotting something that sets him off. dear god this wasn't going to end well. levi turns on his heels, spinning around after his friend, catching the tail end of pollux stopping silas from grabbing charlottte. so that's what set him off, greattttt.  S I L A S | He was taken by surprise so after he was hit he truly didn't know what was happening but soon enough he recovers himself and takes out his sword "What the fuck are you doing." A V E R Y | he didn’t know what to do with her expression. he told himself he didn’t care what she did. if she wanted to refuse him, he was alright with that – they could go right back to being friends. but though he would accept it, he didn’t /want/ it. he wanted to kiss her again. when lou took care of that for him, he smiled against her lips. yes, he hadn’t been expecting any of it. he’d been expecting nothing. which was why this was a thousand better than his expectations. "good thing you said no to that bearorian." A N Y A | "i like silas," she answers, coming to his defense softly. he was acting incredibly normal despite the information he knew about her. but her smile grows as pyros threatens to come to her defense once again. he was being awfully sweet and it made her heart ache. pyros was here-- on sanda mel and yet, lucien was nowhere to be found. "you.. made it yourself ?" her heart grows. "i'm sure the baby will like it." anya's smile never fades and she nods happily. "i spent some time on it." P O L L U X | He supposes that he should also pull out his sword. Then again, he has children to consider. You know, Vi and Nate's children. Anya's future child. With a sigh, he also draws his sword. L E V I | "woah, woah, woah now." he sputters out, trying to get between bryn and silas once the latter brandishes a sword, he doesn't yet pull out his own blade, this had all gone too far and he didn't want to see a drunken bryn get caught in the scuffle. HELL of a punch though, he'd have to commend him for it later. C H A R L O T T E | "Gods stop fighting all of you" She screams at them "And put away all of your swords what are you doing. Do you want the king to come here again? and find everyone trying to kill each other?" M A T T H I A S | it is ODD, for once, to find himself at a ball without his clara toddling at his heels. he does not mind her company---far from it, in fact--- but he cannot deny he is glad for a few hours of /adult/ conversation. "---yes, i agree, the queen is quite...” the men about him turn to empty small talk as they walk; after a moment, matthias tunes them out, letting his gaze sweep to their surroundings instead. a handful of candles give the room a cheerful glow that warns away the encroaching night, and he smiles to hear laughter in the air. and then---OH. the lord bites his lip, lost behind his eyes—then his gaze focuses like the strike of lightning and he breathes, “khailee.” his mind is spinning. a letter still sits upon his desk, the parchment worn from worry and streaks of ink left to stain his palm. be careful with my heart, she had asked of him. how could he be anything but? the lady fell has not made this decision lightly, and neither will he; and yet, as he meets her gaze with his own, there is no uncertainty in his heart, no uneasiness to give him pause. he SMILES, face relaxed and open in the gold glow of dying sunlight, and his hand reaches for her. “my---my khailee,” he says, dipping into a bow, lips brushing across her palm, “i---my apologies for being late.” P Y R O S | A smile pulls up the corner of his lips. " That's the first time I've ever heard that. " Then, his eyes narrow. " The baby ?? What baby ?? I made the sweater for Ghost. " B R Y N | bryn was close to pulling his own sword, though he had never done so in a fight before. but the voice of levi slowed his hand, and the furthering words of charlotte stilled it altogether. he backed up a step, and then two, and then three... and soon, he was next to levi, and he gave him an 'oh shit' look that screamed that they should leave. S I L A S | He glanced at Charlotte and Pollux and it was just because of their presence and Charlotte's words that he puts out his sword. "Charlotte...I think is time we leave for the night." They had arrived together after all "Pollux...thank you." L E V I | "bryn you head out i'll be there in a minute," he pauses, eyeing him motioning with a slight nod towards the exit. he steps forward towards silas once he lowers his sword, "i don't know n' i don't care what's going, but if ya' ever, n' i mean ever lay a hand on him." he motions his head once more. "ain't nobody gonna stop me, n' i ain't bryn mate, these fancy clothes ain't me, this sword...this sword is me." he's perhaps never been more serious in his life, glowering at the man before he moves to walk back toward bryn. K H A I L E E | Khai remains frozen as he approaches, worry clear in her eyes. It was so strange, to feel so anxious and out of control all the time, to no longer be the collected, confident woman she once was. But she knew that Matt was the last person in that room that would think any less of her for it. It felt like the weight of the world lifted off her chest as his face broke into a smile, little warm beams of light reflecting off of his skin and making him more captivating than ever. 'My Khailee.' She'd never heard anything more comforting in her life. A small smile of her own graced her lips as he kissed the soft skin on her hand, and instead of releasing him afterward, she stepped closer and held on, fingers curling gently around his as she faced him. "Nevermind that. I'm just glad you could make it." There was a fight breaking out at the opposite end of the room, but Khai barely even noticed the commotion. Her mind was only on one thing: "Did you... Did you read my letter?" L U C R E Z I A | at his words she giggled, biting her bottom lip as she blushed once more. " good thing. " she agreed, giving him a nod. her hands fell back to her sides, one reaching forward to intertwine with avery's. as much as she wanted to question things and get answers, she figured she had done enough blabbering on for the night. lucrezia wanted to stop on a good note. " oh, by the way, did you get my gift? i hope you liked it. " P O L L U X | Following Silas' lead, he also puts away his sword. " It's nothing, my friend. " Still, he throws a weary glance at Charlotte. He doesn't want to see his friend bother with her still. She had once been as close to him as Silas, but she had been making so many stupid choices because of Brynjolf, he was tired of her. B R Y N | bryn was all too quick to take levi up on his offer. nodding at him gratefully, he stole one more apologetic glance at charlotte that lingered for a moment before he turned and left the ballroom, ignoring the countless pairs of eyes on his back. A N Y A | so he didn't know ? anya is flustered that she managed to out her secret and takes the bread. "i--i have to go," she says quickly, attempting to leave the ball as urgently as she can. A V E R Y | “i did.” he supposes he should have gotten her something. then again, he hadn’t been aware they were going to kiss. or really that she would be there – should have seen that one coming, though. he reckoned he could make it up to her in little ways, if things continued the way they’d begun that night. “we can share the wine.” C H A R L O T T E | Charlotte stared at Silas and pollux the people that not that long ago meant the most to her, and it seemed all that happened that night and honestly even before this night she just started to cry, she knew she loved bryn but she guessed he hand't really thought of the consequences and just wished all would be fine, She wiped her eyes quickly though and faintly nodded, she really just wanted to go to her home. M A T T H I A S | “ah---yes.” a pause, he pauses for breath as if he means to continue, but his gaze is drawn again to the smile upon her face, the worry in his eyes, and instead he sighs. carefully, he reaches out to cover her hand with his, reassurance and tenderness and something deeper, something /nameless/ that belongs only to the two of them.  the letter she speaks of is his pocket even now, re-folded along its crisp creases, the words read and read till he is sure he will see them in his sleep. ---they do not matter. they might have, years ago, when his REPUTATION was still foremost on his mind. there are far more important things in the world. clara’s laughter in the morning, the kitten chasing a ball of yarn. khailee, here, a mere few feet in front of him, her heart and soul bared. “i simply---why did you not tell me, when your parents... i could have helped you, khai. i would have, you must now that. i would never---i could never leave you behind.” L U C R E Z I A | "i'm glad." she's too high on adrenaline, on happiness to say much. her head is spinning and her heart is pounding, something she hopes isn't loud enough for avery to hear. "i would love that." she returned, swinging their arms happily by their sides. with a giggle, she glanced back at him. "have your feelings about sanda mel changed?" K H A I L E E | The more he spoke, the more she felt the walls she'd put up around her heart after this tragedy begin to break down. She hadn't let anyone in on it yet and the only time she'd given herself to process things and grieve over her lost family was when she was alone at night -- and half the time, she was too drunk on those nights to be able to feel at all. Her pain had been lurking deep down ever since the attack on her family's estate, and she hadn't dealt with most of it still. So now, as she was faced with the understanding and compassion in Matt's gaze and voice, those emotions were beginning to break free. "Matt..." Khai could feel that familiar shame creeping back in and lowered her gaze. "I'm nothing now. I have nothing. And that isn't anyone's problem but my own. I didn't want to burden you with it and-- and--" A deep breath, eyes still on the floor. "And I didn't know if you would even still want me if everything that had made me a noblewoman was stripped from me. A man like you can't be seen with someone without a title." H A D R I A N | He remembered briefly meeting the woman before, and recalled finding her pleasant to be around and interesting, so he greeted her with a genuine smile and a nod. "Good to see you." He didn't know whether to be relieved or anxious when she left so soon after he'd gotten there. He didn't have to put in the effort to fake a casual attitude towards Kael now that they were alone, but there also was no buffer, no excuse not to talk directly to him. /Gods/, when the /fuck/ had he become that person? He always spoke his mind, usually to a fault, without even the slightest hesitation. It had gotten him into trouble more times than he could count, in fact. /Why/ was this so different? "I, uh..." He scratched his head, visibly cringing at his own awkwardness. "Thank you. For the gift. It's a bit unusual... Not something most people would think of when picking out gifts for me, but I suppose you are unique. I wasn't... expecting anything at all from you, so..." He sighed, finally smiling at the other man. "It's beautiful, but it's wasted on me. I don't know how to use it." N E K H B E T | "i've known her longer than i've known anyone really." he comments, "you don't have to worry about any acts around her, at least concerning me- /she knows/." he doesn't elaborate on what she knew because it being a public place but still. "i used to work for her father, years back." another comment he adds with a shrug. he has to admit though hadrian seemed so, what's the word hesitant? nekhbet wonders if he's done something wrong or said something wrong. he doesn't think he has, should he not have given him a gift on this day? he knew that sanda mel was a bunch of bull shit after all... "i don't think i've ever given any sort of gifts for the occasion before, your expectations would have been usually right." there he'd admitted in one way or another that hadrian was different, he couldn't quite explain why..why had he been? what made him so special, the answer was more like what didn't?! "like i said in the note i can show you sometime...but if you really don't want it then trash it i suppose, or sell it." his heart almost pangs slightly at the thought, eyes advert away briefly but they come back to hadrian's smile and all is well again. "nothing beautiful is wasted on you. /nothing/." nekhbet's voice is low, it's quiet, almost like a prayer set in a hushed whisper. A V E R Y | he grins at her. “fuck nah. it’s not sanda mel. this is all /your/ fault, lou.” though just for the night, his feelings for the holiday have changed. it doesn’t seem likely that the night would have reached the same result if traditions were different. M A T T H I A S | she says his name and he watches her lips shape the word, lingering on the curves and points of each letter. his heart is pounding in his chest. the room is heavy with sorrow and something deeper that he cannot quite breathe through it. instead, he feathers fingertips up her neck, over her jaw, letting them slide into her hair; she calls herself a burden and his heart twists. “khailee---how could you ever burden me? i---i WANT to care for you, to be there to give you aid when you need it. it is not a burden. i just cannot bear to see you hurt,” he says, and his voice is gentle. “look at me." it takes both hands on her shoulders, gentle but steady, and he leans to peer into her face, forcing her to meet his eyes. “of course i want you. that was never in question.” K H A I L E E | She found her eyes fluttering shut as his fingertips traced gently over her skin and into her hair. His touch was warm, and she could feel the heat in his fingertips sinking into her skin, drifting down into her ribcage, and wrapping around her heart. Khai's eyes opened again and reluctantly moved back up to his at his lighthearted command. She could feel them stinging ever so slightly, but she blinked quickly to try to rid them of their pesky tears. "I know, I.... I know. I've just never /needed/ anyone's aid before, and I hate the feeling." Khailee reached a hand up and rested it gently against the side of his neck. She was in heels, so their height difference wasn't as drastic as it usually was, making it easy enough for her to lean in and nuzzle against him, just under his jaw. "Thank you. For everything."

M A T T H I A S |

he does not miss the fluttering of her eyes, and neither does he miss the swift blink she gives, as if at dust—or at tears. uncaring of the people about them---the fight still, a mere few paces away, he pulls her close, cheek brushing against hers.

“everything will alright, khailee. i do not know if i can do much, but i will do my best to see you in safety and comfort. i promise you.”

his hand glides through her hair, in easy, familiar reassurance, and his lips brushes her head.

“there is nothing to thank.”

K H A I L E E | To think she had nearly run from him when she'd first developed feelings for him. Her emotions had terrified her so much that she'd almost idiotically given up one of the best people she'd ever known. Her free hand wrapped around him, fingers twisting around the fabric of his clothing tightly, as he was the only source of stability in her life anymore and she never wanted him to let go of her. But every moment must come to an end, and after this one passed she pulled back.

Khai sniffled once, but with a deep breath and a slight shake of her head, the tears dried up and her face returned to its usual expression, her emotions expertly concealed for the time being.

"Now, My Lord, I do believe you owe me a dance." There was a warmth in her voice that was surprising even to her own ears. It was one that came out only rarely. She realized in that moment that she trusted Matthias as much as she trusted Nekhbet and Nicolette, who had both been in her life for so much longer, than the man standing before her had.

H A D R I A N | "Oh. I see." Hadrian had been curious how he'd known her, but he hadn't thought to ask. He was a little /more/ curious now that he'd said that he'd known her long. "She's pretty," he commented with a grin, and he left it at that. He would have been happy to keep the conversation on her for awhile; the fluttery feeling in his stomach when the topic shifted back to him was absolutely /ridiculous/, and terribly distracting. It made it even harder for him to say what he wanted to say.

"No! No, no, no,"he clarifies almost frantically, resting a reassuring hand on the other man's arm for a brief moment. "I would never. I love nice things, you know that,"he adds with a grin. "The greatest archer in all the world probably doesn't possess as fine a bow, and I've never so much as held one. But I would absolutely love for you to show me. I'll teach you to play the lute, in exchange."

It's a humorous thought, but then, he is certain the thought of him using any sort of weapon was probably humorous to most. He almost can't /believe/ the next words out of Kael's mouth, and the long, silent stare he gives him makes that much obvious. "I..." /Need a drink/, is what he wants to say. Why had he thought it a good idea to come here sober?

"I hope that that's true. You have a certain sort of beauty to you, yourself. I would hope that I'm worthy of that."

N E K H B E T | "that she is, /fiery too/ don't let her fool you." nekhbet couldn't really recall a more stubborn women either when it came down to it, had been on the the qualities about her that he'd always liked though. the assassin takes a long sip of his wine, finishing it off. he'd been more apt to actually drink his alcohol recently, he wonders if that was more hadrian's doing than his own. perhaps he hadn't been the only one wearing off on the other, nekhbet doesn't mind though; the alcohol was always a good way to ease himself from thinking too much...usually. only now he wasn't drunk by any means, he wishes he was. then hadrian is speaking again and it's /practically frantic/, that was...different, amusing even to see such a reaction; hadrian when he wasn't drinking seemed to be more easily flustered. nekhbet could get used to that he thinks, it's better than himself getting flustered. "i do," he nods, hadrian liked nice things and nekhbet liked him is was that simple, or was it- "if he did you know i could just off him so you would." he jests, laughing a bit, he keeps his words back down mostly because although it was intended as a jest, it's really less of one than he intended. "the lute?" eyebrow raise curiously. he'd never held any instruments, he thinks he has about as much talent as hadrian believed he did with the bow, still the thought of the bard teaching him how to use his fingers and blow on anything amuses him more than it probably should.

"it's settled then, we'll make a day of it sometime." he wants to crack a joke, tease the other but there is nothing to be said beyond a long gaze back to hadrian's. nekhbet licks at his lips, he wants to leave but not alone, he wants to get away from the crowd now because it's starting to feel like it should be just them. "i lie about a lot of things..." he admits, shrugging as if it is nothing. "but i'm not lying about that..." it was true and all the while when hadrian tells him he's got a beauty about him he can't stop his face from flushing fast enough, can't cover up his cheeks like some young smitten child.

so he gives a defiant look towards the side instead. he'd been told many things in his lifetime, but they always sounded the most sincere coming from the bard. “ thank you," is all nekhbet can mumble out for a moment, adding; "you are worthy of a lot, in fact can a get you a drink." anything to look away and stop his stupid face from feeling warm.

gods the vulture at a dammed sanda mel ball all flustered, who would have thought.

CHARACTER SHEET: DAISY AUDREY ELOISE CANARD

And she's been living on the highest shelf... Oh, and they come unstuck Lady, running down to the riptide Taken away to the dark side

[TW: sexual assault mentions; eating disorder mentions]

STATS

Birthday: 14 January 1995

Hogwarts House (Primary): Ravenclaw

Hogwarts House (Secondary): Hufflepuff

Myers-Briggs: ESFJ

Enneagram: Type 3

Height:  5’4

BACKGROUND OVERVIEW

Mother: Lilian Ophelia Marie Harcourt Canard

Father: Jacques Didier Canard

Mother’s Occupation: lawyer—business law

Father’s Occupation: stockbrocker

Family Finances: quite wealthy—combination of old money on both ends, as well as parents’ own ambitions and finances

Birth Order: middle child

Siblings: Nicolas Etienne Jeannot Canard (24); Andre Leon Charles Canard (19)

Other Close Family: Aunt Cecile on her dad’s side (who has a girlfriend and is like super cool and a movie producer); she has another aunt on that side who has two kids her and Nic’s ages but I don’t have my notebook on hand so I cant look up their names oh well; Lilian is an only child

Best Friend: Clarke

Other Friends: Annette Grant, Hermes Petros, Toulouse Bonfamille, Stanley Schell, Abby and Tabitha

Enemies: Tito? Lol she thinks so :C

Pets: a cat named Sabrina! Her family also has two dogs named Gigi and Fifi

Home Life During Childhood: her parents were both very busy, but she and her siblings were very close and her dad made a huge insistence on family time when they were together; to this day they have a designated week in late July and winter where they go on vacations together; she’s very close with Nic and her dad; Andre can be a bit of a brat; she clashed with her mother a bit growing up but she’s starting to understand her more

Town or City Name(s): Paris, France

What Did Her Bedroom Look Like: very nice and spacious, big windows with a nice view, she has a canopy bed, everything is in pastel colors, lots of whites and pinks—nothing too loud, everything soft like a Rococo painting, a big walk-in closet, a nicely lit vanity, the artwork in there is carefully selected, everything has its place

Any Sports or Clubs: did newspaper also probably a creative writing club; used to fence and do ballet, but quite around 13/14 years old

Favorite Toy or Game: loved paper dolls

Schooling: one last semester at Pride U; probably did some pretty expensive private school in Paris

Favorite Subject: Composition, Art History

Popular or Loner: Popular!

Important Experiences or Events: was sexually assaulted at 17, her then-boyfriend lied about it and harassed her for months after

Health Problems: undiagnosed anxiety, lowkey makes herself throw up after eating sometimes also

Culture: French

Religion and beliefs: Raised Catholic, she wants to believe in a benevolent God but does not really like the Catholic church; she wants to believe in the goodness of people

 PERSONALITY

Bad Habits:  worries, limits her food intake a lot haha, has a tendency to keep her emotions inside before lashing out, cries a lot

Good Habits: uh, organized, keeps up with her fitness, ambitious, kind-hearted (in her own way), stylish

Best Characteristic: determined—once she sets her mind on something or someone, she will not quit

Worst Characteristic: scared—her number one limitation in life is that she is too scared to take chances/take risks/do anything without security

Worst Memory: the whole sexual assault thing and also the night she broke up with Tito

Best Memory: oh gosh, probably getting her bike back

Proud of: not much lol, uh maybe her fashion sense, she’s like really insecure though and attributes all her successes to other factors, poor bby

Embarrassed by: e v e r y t h I ng have you seen how much this girl blushes

Driving Style: she’s a fantastic driver—fast, daring, drives stick-shift in heels, cuts tight corners on her motorcycle, she’s fab, best driver of my characters (except maybe for Eva, but that’s cuz Eva has heightened reflexes lol); does have a tendency to speed, but doesn’t do it except on isolated roads

Strong Points: determined, hard working, kind-hearted, stylish

Temperament: gosh im not sure its like a mix of sanguine and melancholic

Attitude: outwardly, confident and determined; inwardly, really fuckin’ anxious and insecure about everything

Weakness: she’s so insecure and not good with criticism and she’s soft little flower it is easy to crush her

Fears: everything—not being good enough is the main one though

Phobias: see above lol

Secrets: not too open about the whole sexual assault thing for obvious reasons, also he like harassed her for months afterwards

Regrets: every romantic relationship she’s ever had because it makes her seem stupid and heartless and foolish

Feels Vulnerable When: uh always? When she’s being emotional, tbh, since she’s been told to restrict that

Pet Peeves: people who assume she’s dumb, people who assume she’s shallow

Conflicts: oh gosh where to begin—the fact that she wants the world to be this good, ideal place where she has the ability to help it, but the reality that class differences/prejudices in other areas are very real and very hard to overcome; her own desire to do more with her life, but knowing that rejecting her family’s values would not be good, and she really loves her family; navigating being a soft woman in a world that otherwise respects hard, sharp ones

Motivation: She wants to be successful and to make a change in the world.

Short Term Goals and Hopes: Graduate, get a good job somewhere in a big city.

Long Term Goals and Hopes: Rise to the top of her career, hopefully get married at one point.

Sexuality: bisexual

Exercise Routine: goes to spin class three times a week, does a barre class twice a week, weight training the other days, very committed exercise schedule

Day or Night Person — Day.

Introvert or Extrovert — Extrovert.

Optimist or Pessimist — Pessimist, though she tries to be optimistic to other people.

LIKES AND STYLES

Music: girly pop, MUSICALS—she’s a huge musical gal, sings in the shower all the time. Loves taylor swift, knows that its problematic to love taylor swift, but does so in that well #feminism way that’s also lowkey problematic ahaha. Her iTunes is mostly musicals and pop and some classical music too, she likes ballet music.

Books: classics and romance novels; also some trashy YA romance; went through a John Green phase in her high school years; her favourite book is The Bell Jar. She also reads those like “Oprah Book of the Month” club books and enjoys them. Gets most of her reading list from bestsellers lists.

Magazines: VOGUE aka the Bible; also Cosmo and Marie Claire and other high-fashion magazines; whatever the French equivalent of Time is, but also Time; started a subscription to the New Yorker whilst she was in NYC and keeps up with it

Foods: has a sweet tooth—loves chocolate. Chocolate-covered strawberries are her favorite. She thinks she can handle spicy, but she can’t really.

Drinks: Margaritas are her cocktail of choice; she loves champagne and lattes

Animals: cats! Also she loves swans and thinks its so romantic that they mate for life, but she won’t admit that lol

Sports: follows Formula One racing tbh and also fencing

Social Issues: Feminism! (she’s like lowkey a bit of a white feminist) Magick Rights! (lowkey also a bit of a problematic activist in everything; she’s trying though) Also involved in environmental issues!! (she works on a turtle fund thing with Stan)

Favorite Saying: “I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles.” – Audrey Hepburn

Color: Pink!! Any and all shades! Also likes a nice rose-gold. Fond of pastel colors in decorating.

Clothing: Has a very classy, preppy style; lots of skirts and blazers; usually always in heels; most everything is designer and high-end; she takes pride in her style; she also dresses more on the conservative end, but does own a few sexier pieces

Jewelry: very classy, never overdoes herself with jewelry; simple pendants and studs

Games: played the Sims a lot, played racing games with her brothers, Mario Kart fan too

Websites: Instagram—also has a finsta bc she’s hip; tumblr; Pinterest

TV Shows: Downton Abbey, Sex and the City

Movies: The Devil Wears Prada!! (Also Titanic)

Greatest Want: To be successful and make a difference in the world

Greatest Need: To overcome her fears

CURRENTLY 

Home: lives in Castle Suites in a very luxurious one-bedroom flat

Household furnishings: everything is impeccably decorated, lots of pastels and golds, there’s a big window in the living room (which has like white furniture and soft lights everywhere, big white rug on the floor, lots of throw pillows), her room has a big bed with lots of pillows and her closet is organized by type of clothes and colour

Favorite Possession: her car

Most Cherished Possession: her motorcycle

Married Before: Nope.

Significant Other Before: Tito (rip); asshole French boyfriend, Michel

Children: n/a

Relationship with Family:  huge Daddy’s girl, but Daddy is also very busy and not super around all the time and she doesn’t really confide in him; very close to older brother, Nic, sometimes they feel like they are the only people in the world they can trust; younger brother has a strained relationship bc he can be kinda douche but they love each other; relationship with mother is---complicated, they are very similar and often butt heads because of their differences though and Lilian thinks she knows what’s best etc etc and Daisy is just starting to see her mom in a new light

Car: BMW, she also has a motorcycle

Career: journalism student, editor-in-chief of campus magazine: Social

Dream Career: editor in chief of a fashion magazine that also has like a huge philanthropy side

Dream Life: said career, has not given much thought to the like actual life part of it, but ideally she’d like to be married to the love of her life and have two kids as well

Love Life: uh imma get back to you on that

Hobbies : reading, dancing (she loves dancing), driving, sketching fashions, cleaning (lol), amateur baker, used to be a fencer, writing (she used to write short stories but has not in a while)

Guilty Pleasure : those trashy Harlequin romance novels….

Sports or Clubs: Social, PrideU’s premier campus lifestyle magazine; probably involved in like journalism clubs

Talents or Skills : she’s a great dancer and a fantastic driver; also a good writer

Intelligence Level : she is great auditory learner, very sharp and quick to pick up what she listens too; writes the best out of my characters; reads a lot too; not great at sciences or math, but she tries her best and the hard work pays off; a fan of history, but only as it relates to cultural stuff (wars bore her); the most emotionally aware of others of my characters, can read people well

Finances: wealthy—parents are wealthy each from their individual families and from their own careers, pay for their children

↪ b a s i c s ;

N A M E: Italia Tarrentino A G E: 17 P L A C E   O F   O R I G I N: Queens, New York G R O U P: None F C: Katelyn Nacon

❝ I live my life in shackles, but I’m borderline free. ❞

↪ p e r s o n a l i t y ;

P O S I T I V E   T R A I T S: audacious ; persuasive N E G A T I V E   T R A I T S: elusive ; untrustworthy

↪ b i o g r a p h y ;

L I F E   B E F O R E   T H E   O U T B R E A K:

Tarrentino. That was a well known name in the Queens black market. Laurence and Jackie Tarrentino were the King and Queen of illegal arms dealing, often dabbling in drug selling as well, just to make a little more profit. Due to their criminal life, the moment Italia was birthed, she had been spoiled, sleeping and growing up in a rich environment. The biggest house, the nicest toys, the cutest clothes. The parents made sure that Italia was envied, always flaunting her around whenever she could. Which often caused her to be the center of attention, good and bad.

Because she could get away with a lot of things, Italia was growing up thinking it was okay to be rebellious. Slapping things out of her friend’s hands, throwing backpacks into the trash - Doing everything she wanted to do, since she knew that there would be no repercussion. But despite all of her outbursts, Italia never became apart of her parent’s business. She had no interest in becoming the next Queen of arms dealing, or a kingpin. No, instead Italia wanted to become an artist, one who well known around New York and the world. She had hundreds of sketchbooks buried in her closet, containing pages of unseen art. She drew almost every day - Her thoughts, or what she had seen that day. It was her refuge, the place where she didn’t need to force people to do what she wanted them to do. She moved her hands, her thoughts turning, and within an hour, there it was. Her every thought drawn onto one page.

But that didn’t mean her father wouldn’t teach her how to shoot. Or how to talk herself out of an expensive deal, or out of a ticket ( for when she was older ). At twelve years hold, she was already holding a handgun, able to shoot a target from thirty feet away. She could bargain her way out of thousands of dollars, making it that much easier to get good grades in school.

L I F E   D U R I N G   T H E   O U T B R E A K:

It was supposed to be another regular day, go to school, come home and draw. Leave her homework out for her tutor to do. But it was far from that. Halfway during math class, there was a commotion down the hall, shouting and yelling. Stomping, the echo of leather heels hitting the ceramic under their feet. And the door swung open, a couple of men dressed in suit appearing, the tattoo of her family engraved into their necks. Then followed her mother, disheveled as she ordered Italia to follow. No soft voice,  her mother paying no attention to those around her. She dragged her out of class, leaving her belongings behind claiming that she didn’t need them.

Outside the school, several cars were parked, waiting for them. Suitcases packed in the trunk. Her father hurrying them into one of them. It felt like hours where her parents remained silent, refusing to tell her what was going on.

There was a jet waiting for them, just as packed as the cars. And the escorts were armed to the teeth. It frightened her. Nobody would talk, her mother and father fighting for the first time since she was born. They were just as scared. The only thing that they would tell her was that they were going to Cheyenne for an undetermined amount of time, which she knew meant they weren’t coming back to Queens. That it was supposed to be safe there.

They had barely landed at the Regional Airport, that there was already turbulence. People were already greeting them, trying to hurry them into a limo. But gunshots were heard. Screams. And then the undead came rushing.

L I F E   A F T E R   T H E   O U T B R E A K:

Mother and father had pushed her back into the jet with their pilot who closed the door, the guards already firing rounds, knowing what was happening. She had been kept in the dark about the outbreak, and only now was realizing what was happening. There were more screams, the pilot hiding herself and Italia in the washroom cubicle. Until it was quiet. And for a few minutes, all that could be heard was Italia’s silent sobbing. The pilot, who Italia had come to know as Maggie, told her to stay put, going to investigate quietly through the window. She came back, telling her to come out. But every blind had been put down, covering the windows so she wouldn’t see outside.

The airport had become their home, staying inside their jet at night, doors locked and the windows out front sprayed with black paint so nobody could see them. Their only way out of the airport and into the city being a hole in the fence. The jet was packed full of GUNS, courtesy of her family. She didn’t know if they were dead, father and mother, but she assumed as much. The guards had been torn to pieces - And she had a feeling her parents would’ve come back for her.

They never go out at night, knowing better than that. If they didn’t make it back to the airport in time for the closure of the door, there was a restaurant just a few miles east that was secure enough. Italia didn’t take risks anymore. She listened to the former pilot, and made sure she was safe first and foremost.