#I was inspired by the anime Blue period!

[agomeangelcat]

I just find it funny how most fanfics featuring Chishiya x Reader, end up with him sacrificing the S/O, making the s/o question Chishiya's loyalty(i would too), or make s/o a dumb bean, I like those stories, BUT, I want to see the reader being smart, not playing math games (I'm not good at math, fuck math), but knowing how manipulate and read people like a fucking book, but still being a sweet heart and in love with Chishiya, even with his strange traits of acting.

S/o is still more attached to human life, S/O who knows that he would sacrifice them without thinking, but they continues to show Chishiya that he won't get rid of them anytime soon, the power of love, humanity and S/O goes: I'm going to end this man career!. 

They already knew each other outside borderland, and had a Logical person x Emotion person relationship, friends/lovers but Rivals!

Bonus: S/O is a psychiatrist/psychologist, S/O who has already attempted su1c1de, S/O who lost someone in a tragic way and because of that values ​​human life or all the scenarios mentioned, plz just give us a badass overpower s/o with a dramatic backstory.

#alice in boderland x reader #chishiya shuntaro #chishiya x reader #Alice in boderland S2 #I was inspired by the anime Blue period! #me being delusional #just ignore me

[theeoriginals]

I’d love to see your take on an arranged marriage with klaus (like medieval times or some period like that). maybe he’s marrying her to get something from her/her family but there’s something a little off about the reader (hint: she does what giulia tofana did - google her if you’re not familiar!! her story is so fascinating) and when he pieces it together he’s smitten with her 💗💗

aqua tofana | klaus mikaelson

author's note; this has been in my inbox for over a month because i was so inspired by it that I decided a 14k oneshot was necessary I hope I did it justice

klaus mikaelson x reader (no y/n) use of nickname in place of y/n

warnings; arranged marriage, strangers to lovers, klaus is a little shit but so is reader so it's okay, no Y/N, mentions of domestic abuse but not in regards to reader, mentions of poison, fluff, shy!klaus (he is real to me), these two mfers are in LOVE, mikael (a warning in itself), minor violence and bloodshed but nothing too bad. if I missed anything let me know!! this is heavily inspired by ACOTAR bc I just binged the entire series in less than a week so thank you sarah j. maas for your service

The Mikaelsons were said to be a noble family. One with loyalty and strength. 

They were coming to stay in their small kingdom, in their castle. Three of them. Elijah, Rebekah, and Niklaus. Looking for a safe haven, to avoid growing conflicts in surrounding areas. Looking for someplace to call home for a little while longer– at least, until they could no longer pass as mortals.

Riverend was perfect for them. 

The way the people of Riverend saw it, their problems were their own, and the larger, outlying kingdoms could fight their nonsensical battles without any help from a small, useless kingdom built downstream from them, carved right out of the flowing water that traveled through their town square by the calloused hands of the families that still lived there today.

As far as anyone was concerned, Riverend had no monetary value, no natural resources to capitalize off of, no armies worth rallying, and no animals to trade. The only thing it had was its people, and to most, that meant nothing. It meant they went overlooked, and were never considered in territory battles and similar crises. But to the right person–a dangerous person– such a thing could mean everything. 

That is why she was so wary to accept this supposedly noble family into their walls. She had to be wary, to think of the danger they could bring along with them should they stay. How much danger it could put her kingdom in. 

It’s why she had further qualms about marrying the man the king had been corresponding with all these months. Said qualms, of course, outside of the fact that she had no real desire to marry, let alone to a stranger. All familiarity aside, she had a duty to her people to maintain their livelihoods and not leave them stranded for her own selfish desires. Even if it meant marrying some man. 

With her mother’s voice in her head telling her to keep her chin up and her shoulders back, she was determined to keep her wits about her. She didn’t complain when she was asked to wear one of her nicer gowns to greet the family when they arrived that brisk, cloudy afternoon. She let her ladies dress her in a midnight blue gown that swept along the ground, with sleeves that draped over her hands, leaving no skin visible, spare for her neck and face. 

She was escorted by the king to the throne room, where she stood at his shoulder, resting a hand on the embroidered fabric along the muscle hidden beneath the layers. A silent, supportive daughter. A perfect royal family, to anyone who might linger too long while looking in their direction. 

Two of their sentries escorted their new houseguests into the throne room, and she did nothing but raise a brow at their humble appearance. The girl, Rebekah, was young. She’d seen better days, and she silently wondered where they had traveled from that had them end up before her and her father with dirt scuffs on their cheeks, and scruffy, unkempt facial hair marring their jaws. 

“Welcome, Lords and Lady, to our home,” Her father spoke genially, a content smile on his face as if he was unaware of the judgmental look his daughter was fixing them with. “We’re honored to have you here, honored to build a bridge between our families for years to come.” 

One of the long-haired men spoke, his hands clasped neatly behind his back, making him look like he was some proper gentleman and not a random man who had shown up on her doorstep. 

“The honor is all ours, Your Majesty. The opportunities that your generosity has given my family have not gone unnoticed. We thank you and the Princess for your kindness.” 

The King shifted slightly like he’d forgotten his daughter was there. He turned to look at her over his shoulder, and she met his gaze, peering down at him over the bridge of her nose. “Yes, my daughter. Nyxia. She’s a woman of few words, I must warn you all. And when she chooses to speak, it’d do you well to listen closely.” 

All of their eyes shifted to her, but the set of icy blue ones had never left. Not to meet the king’s eyes, or look around at his new home for the foreseeable future of their impending marriage. 

“Your Highness,” Blue eyes, suddenly alight with fire. Flame that burns her from the tips of her toes to the base of her scalp that her very hair grows out of. Flame that ravages civilizations, and wipes out bloodlines. She can feel the darkness in him from two simple words. It’d take a fool to not see it. “I look forward to getting to know you before our prospective arrangement takes place.”

He wasn’t lying, she could tell. But his words seemed to hold as much weight as hers did. A hidden meaning tucked behind every spoken syllable. Dangerous. So dangerous. The King was a fool to not see it, but that was neither here nor there. 

Licking her lips, she chose her first words carefully. It was always important to make a lasting first impression, but with this man– with her future husband, she wanted to be honest from the start. She wanted, for once, to reveal her hand before the game started. Just to see what he’d do. Just to see what he had planned. 

But she didn’t. She knew it would just be chaos. And even though such things were in her blood, she couldn’t risk anything this far into everything.

“Lord Niklaus,” She didn’t move a muscle besides the ones it took to make words form on her tongue. “My kingdom rejoices with your arrival. They will be overjoyed with the announcement of our nuptials.” 

And the man, encased in his flames that felt as if they could burn the whole world down should he please, tilted his head and smirked at her. Like he’d heard every thought she’d had in the moments between words. 

Nothing else was said between them, not verbally, at least, and the king interrupted the rising tension that was so obvious between the Princess and the Mikaelson siblings, oblivious to the people he’d surrounded himself with. 

“Lady Rebekah, my daughter can show you to your rooms in the east wing. You’ll have ladies of your own to help you bathe and dress,” He gestures to the blonde, who looks childishly excited at the thought. “The both of you will be in the west wing, my men can take you to your rooms. We can reconvene tonight at dinner, yes?” 

The three siblings bowed at their waist, easily deferring the power back to the King. 

“In the meantime, feel free to explore. Our home is yours, now. Make yourselves comfortable.” 

She stayed in the throne room long after even her father had left, watching the doors the siblings had been escorted through. She lingered at her place beside the throne, nearly behind it, where her mother once stood behind a man who looked like he belonged on a throne more than any woman would. She laid a hand around the back of the embossed silver and thought to herself that it would look better in gold. 

────── 

Klaus watched his wife-to-be dig into the dinner presented before them moments ago, her fork the first one to move, even before her father’s. She didn’t sit at the head of the table, but just to the right of her father, and Klaus had taken the seat across from her. He did not doubt that she could feel his eyes on her, but she was pointedly ignoring it in favor of talking to his sister at her side. 

Rebekah, ever the people pleaser. Even in their centuries on this earth, Rebekah could never resist the desire to cling to the nearest female in their proximity. He hadn’t said anything to her about it, yet. He figured there was no harm in letting her delude herself into thinking that Princess Nyxia wanted anything to do with any of them. 

Elijah wasn’t even pretending to be friendly like he tended to be in this position. He’d been silent for a majority of the day, perhaps tired from their travels, though Klaus doubted it was anything so simple. If Klaus were to look at himself as a King, it would be Elijah as his second, watching everything and everyone, dutifully reporting back to him about usurpers and battles to come. It would be Elijah ripping hearts out, and Klaus taking responsibility for the blood on his brother’s hands. 

There was a reason it was only the three of them. His other siblings just didn’t understand that you did everything for family. 

He supposes that’s why he’s so curious about the two royals before him. They were the only family they had left, and yet there was something unspoken there, something withheld between them that left a tenuous truce. There was such anger behind Nyxia’s eyes, and Klaus had the urge to push and push at it until it finally shattered. Elijah often compared him to a child for this inane urge, and Klaus couldn’t deny it. 

“This food is lovely, Your Majesty,” 

Rebekah looked at Nyxia’s father with a sweet little smile, and Klaus wondered how she managed to maintain such a degree of humanity inside of her after everything.

“Oh, it’s all my sweet Nyx,” He turns his pleasant, kingly smile to his daughter. Looks like he owes her the world. She doesn’t return an ounce of the fondness, but she still smiles, like she knows it’s expected of her. “She has specific tastes, so I prefer her to pick the menu. Our cooks in the kitchen work to make it all come to life and it never disappoints.” 

It works in the way that it makes Rebekah turn adoring eyes onto Nyxia once again, but it doesn’t do as such for the two brothers. There’s something about this place that drew them to it in the first place and they wanted to figure it out, neither of them did very well when it came to venturing into the unknown, so they devised the plan. It’s set in motion, it’s happening as they sit at this table and eat this food, and yet he still feels wrongfooted. He’s missing something, he’s missing the thing that brought him to this small kingdom in the first place. 

He doesn’t like living in the dark. 

Elijah cuts a thin bite of the lamb chop on the plate in front of him. “Do you cook, then, Princess?”

“If I am feeling particularly inspired, yes,” She grabs her silver chalice, swirling the dark red wine in it before she takes a drink. “I prefer vinification.” 

The King’s face lights up like he’d been waiting for another opportunity to brag on his daughter. “Yes, Nyxia made the wine we’re drinking tonight. She tries to make a personal barrel at least once a year, and it’s always the most unique flavor. She goes out and picks fruits from our trees up near the bluffs, where–”

“I’m sure they aren’t interested to know what fruits our land produces, Father.”

“On the contrary,” Her eyes shot to Elijah at his words. “I think it’d be quite ignorant of us to turn down any knowledge of the land we’re to call… home. It seems to be a very special place.” 

She watches him for a moment, eyes narrowing at his unsuspecting tone. “Yes,” She muses quietly, looking away from Elijah to meet Klaus’s gaze like she can tell Elijah’s speaking on his behalf. “Perhaps I’ll show you what makes it so special.”

None of them acknowledged the fact that it wasn’t so much of an offering of camaraderie, but rather a threat. 

────── 

Months go by. Time passes peacefully, but Klaus is growing restless. 

With the announcement of their joining sent out to the few people they intended to invite outside of their kingdom, they had begun preparing the castle for the celebration and the princess found herself preoccupied with menial tasks, like picking out what flower arrangements to line the aisle with and what color banners should hang from the ceilings above them. 

Throughout it, she’d done her best to avoid the Mikaelsons but maintained a close enough distance so they couldn’t claim she was giving them the cold shoulder. She’d grown quite good at falsifying closeness throughout her years. She was designed to have a connection with her people that displayed generosity but not bias. A relatability, but not a weakness. 

She was sure that Rebekah would call them best friends by now, but she also knew the girl could not even tell a person what the princess’s favorite color was if someone ever bothered to ask her. 

She has always been able to exist in a way that makes her entirely extraordinary, but forgettable the moment she’s out of sight. 

She’s been able to use the wedding as an excuse to avoid isolated interactions with Klaus, but she knew he’d catch her without an excuse one of these days. She would’ve preferred to avoid it for a bit longer, but she wasn’t unprepared when it finally happened.

Standing in the aisle of the throne room where the banners of white and gold were hanging above the place they were to stand in front of her people and all of the guests they’d sent invitations out to and declare an undying bond that didn’t exist, she felt a rage bubble inside of her that she was quick to smother into nothing but cinders and ash when she heard the doors creak open behind her and footsteps slow as he stopped beside her. 

“You’re a hard woman to track down, Princess,” 

“You could have sent for me at any time. It is my duty to serve my subjects,” 

She glances at Klaus out of the corner of her eye and sees an amused look grow on his face. “Is that what I am? One of your subjects?” 

“Until we are bound by law, yes, Lord Mikaelson. You are one of my subjects and I your Princess. Soon enough you’ll be Prince, and you will also owe loyalty to my subjects because this place does not exist without them.” 

“You take such pride in this kingdom, in these lands, yet you did not win it in a battle, have not even fought in one, as far as I’m aware. You have no value to other kingdoms, and yet your father brags of orchards and vineyards with bountiful fruits. He tells tales of heroic civilians, always offering a helping hand to those in need. Sparing what they can, to maintain their peace here. It’s an odd thing, considering I’d never seen or heard of Riverend before that time all those months ago when I first met your father.” 

“And yet, here you stand, within the walls of my kingdom, amongst my people. In my home.” 

There’s no humor in her voice. There isn’t any hatred in it, either, and he can tell she’s got that impenetrable mask on again. Even her momentary anger or irritation was different from this nothingness. 

He can hear her father’s words from that very first day, telling them all that her words are important. He remembers thinking it was such an odd thing to point out at that time. It almost rings like a warning, now, and not a twisted compliment for the woman. 

“It’s curious, is all. I wonder if I’ll understand what inspires such devotion once I am Prince, or if it is a feeling only you experience.” 

She turns, finally, to look at him. “You are interested in learning what makes me love my people and my home?” 

He ducks his head in a nod. “Guilty, I suppose.”

“Then I will show you,” She nods once, firmly. Like she’s just decided it then and there because of his earnest words, and he thinks it’s a ridiculous, rash thing, but when he looks into her eyes there is no hesitation or wariness. “Tonight, we will have dinner and I will answer all of your questions. I will show you why I would spill endless blood for this kingdom, and never ask any of my people to do the same for me in return.” 

He raises his brows, letting a sliver of his suspiciousness show in his icy, blue-gray eyes. “You’re offering such honesty to my family after weeks of pretending like we don’t exist? Forgive me if I’m skeptical of your generosity.” 

“Not your family. You. You and I will have dinner alone, and I will tell you everything you want to know,” She corrects him, earning a more genuine look of shock from him. “You are to be my husband. One day you will be my King, and I your Queen. Is honesty not the place to start?” 

Klaus falls silent, watching her, waiting for a slip-up. For any sign of hesitation or scheming behind her endless eyes. Finding nothing, he bites out a wry laugh and nods in agreement, finally tearing his eyes away from her to look around at the decorated throne room. 

The betrotheds stand silent together for a few minutes, and she offers no insight into whatever it is she’s thinking as she stares at the throne front and center in the room. 

“Is my help needed for our wedding?” Klaus says suddenly as if there isn’t a mounting tension building in the room like a shadow of the night. 

“Not unless you are offering,” She says simply. “I’ve told them white and gold, for our colors. My dress is to be fashioned similarly, as are your garments. I’m sure you’ll be summoned for fittings, but our seamstresses have plenty of work to do before then.” 

The man hummed agreeingly. “Then I shall leave you to it. And I’ll see you at dinner tonight.” 

“Before you go, Lord Mikaelson,” 

“I am certain you can call me Niklaus. Just Klaus if you’re feeling particularly agreeable that day, Princess,” 

She raised a brow like one might raise their lips in humor. “Niklaus.” 

He looks at her indulgently. 

“Even after we are married, outside of our duties to this kingdom, I will never ask you for anything,” She says, her words striking something like a warning bell inside him. “But right now, I have a question for you.” 

“Ask me anything, Princess,” 

“Do you know who you are?” 

Klaus’s eyebrows flexed on his forehead. “Pardon?” 

She turns to face him head-on, standing before him like she did that first day they arrived, only this time there was barely a foot of distance between them. He could almost see her pulse move in the long lines of her throat. “I ask you, as your future wife, do you know who you are? Do you feel the shadow that shields your soul? Do you feel the fire that consumes you?” 

She tilts her head at his suspended silence. “You hide from the light that is still inside of you. You hide from someone. But you won’t hide from me. You can’t. It is because of that unfair advantage that I am offering you honesty. Know that I do this for you as an act of trust. Do not underestimate the weight of such a thing, or you will see just what I am willing to do for this place.” 

She side-steps him and walks past him, leaving him in a stunned silence that quickly turns into rage that they both know he can’t take out on anything within the walls of this castle, and the borders of this kingdom. 

She’s established the high ground. And she has made it clear that it is not Klaus standing up there, looking down at her, but rather the other way around. 

She’s offered to even the playing field, though. He’s curious to see just how much honesty she’ll be parting with tonight. He’s curious to see how it will end. 

────── 

The table is set for two. 

It’s different from the dining table they’ve been occupying for the past three weeks. This is a table made for two, and only for two. 

Candlelight casts shadows around the room, and Klaus does a slight double take as he walks towards the table, escorted quietly by one of the sentries from his quarters to this room. He’s loath to admit he was distracted by thinking about all of the possibilities of this dinner to pay attention to the fact that he was being led to the east wing and not the usual central hall where meals were had. 

But it’s too late for him to question it, as the sentry is walking out and a door across the room opens, revealing the princess. 

She’s changed again– always in different gowns throughout the day. This one is similar to the one she was wearing when they first met. A blue so dark it looks black, that holds color like the night sky. Sleeves that drape over her shoulders and cinch down to her wrist, leaving only her hands bare. With the dim lighting of this private dining room, shadows dance around her face, and he thinks to himself that the shadows cling to her. 

She gestures for him to take a seat, already doing so, and she immediately grabs a corked bottle from the side of the table, popping it open and pouring their golden chalices halfway full before she sets it back down. 

Klaus takes the first drink and has to bite back the pleased noise he starts to make, if only out of spite. 

“I’ve been fermenting this wine for three years,” She informs him, seemingly hearing the noise anyway, if the gleam in her eye is anything to go by. “It’s from my private reserves.” 

“Aren’t they all from your private reserves?” 

“No, I give barrels to the tavern in town,” She swirls it around in her cup, quirking a brow at him. 

“Give, or sell?” 

“Aren’t you the one who said I have undying generosity for this kingdom for no good reason?” She takes a small sip of the wine, holding it in her mouth for a moment before she sets it down. “It’s too bitter for my liking.” 

Klaus hums, taking another drink. “Perhaps you’re just your own biggest critic,” 

“Mm, perhaps,” She concedes, fluttering her eyes in a slight roll. It’s as casual as he’s ever seen her, and she’s still sitting stock-straight in her chair, shoulders back and chin high. As royal as ever. “Are you going to start asking your questions?” 

He smirks, tilting his head in a slight nod. “Maybe I was waiting for your permission. I wouldn’t want to be a rude dinner guest, after all. Not after you’ve brought this lovely meal into this secluded space,” 

“It’s mine. I don’t always prefer to eat in the company of others,” She says. “My bedroom is through that door.” 

She points to the door she’d come through upon his arrival, and his eyes follow the curve of her arm through the fabric shifting along it. 

“How lucky I am, then, hm?” 

“Oh, most people would not call it luck, Niklaus. In fact, I think I heard your brother say to your sister once that it feels like you’re all just sheep in a wolf’s den.”

Klaus makes a dry noise of acknowledgment, mentally cursing his brother for saying such things within earshot of anyone, let alone his soon-to-be wife. “My brother’s desire to protect this family often leads him to paranoia, I’m afraid.” 

“I never said he was wrong.” 

Klaus’s hands flex in his lap, out of view of the princess. “Oh, is that so? Then maybe I am ready to start asking questions,”

She beckons him on with a wave of her hand. Neither of them has touched their meals. He doesn’t think they’ve broken eye contact, either. Locked in this stalemate, tension rising and rising and rising. 

“I have traveled far and wide in my days on this planet, and I have come across some very strange places, I must say. But never have I come across a place that simply… doesn’t exist,”

If Klaus knew any better, he’d think she looked excited at the words coming out of his mouth.

“That is not a question, my Lord,” 

He smirks at her correction. “What is it? What is it that hides this place from the map? How do you keep travelers passing through, yet no one has ever had so much as a–a tall tale, or some monster story to tell about this place? You fight in no wars but you have sentries stationed throughout this castle, on guard every night and day. You trade no goods, but these lands are bountiful in fruits and vegetables, crops as big as this castle grow in people’s yards. So, tell me, Princess Nyxia, how do you do it?” 

She shifts in her chair, leaning her arm onto the armrest, and for the first time since he met her all those months ago, she smiles. 

She smiles widely, and it’s not something wicked or cold, but instead, it’s amusement, through and through. Every bit of that coldness stays in her eyes, though. Darkness still clinging to her like a child and its mother.

“There are stories about things– creatures so dangerous that you cannot even utter their name, for fear of inviting them into your home, your mind,” She starts, undoubtedly aware of the anticipation thrumming in his veins. He’s had to be so careful about feeding since they came here, compelling people, and never taking too much, because he can’t risk her catching on. He thinks he feels more human than ever within these walls, and it’s such an odd thing. 

“My real name has not been spoken in decades. Most people in this kingdom, in this castle, do not know me as anything other than Nyxia. It is the name that my mother held when people started to refuse to say her name as well, and in honor of her great life, I now bear it as my own.”

Klaus lets out a slow breath, a feeling like adrenaline coursing through him. “What are you, Nyxia?” 

“I am the shadows that follow you along the walls, I am the very stars in the sky. I am the end to every day, and I will be the end to it all when I am finally called back home. I am the thing you see every time you blink your eyes, Klaus Mikaelson. I am darkness.” 

He shuffles, leaning his elbows onto the table to examine her closely, in a way that he hasn’t had the chance to do since their arrival. “You keep this place hidden so that people don’t find you and hunt you.” 

“Why do you think you and your siblings found this place? Why do you think you could see and remember what so many others could not?” She raised a brow, pulling her cloth napkin from her lap and dropping it atop her untouched plate. “I know what you are, Niklaus Mikaelson. The Original Hybrid. The divide in you is shadowed in darkness. I am, and have been a part of your very being from the day you took your first breath and were declared a bastard.” 

He flinches minutely, but she sees it anyway. “Why me? Why lure me and my family here? To kill us? I have no doubt you have every means to kill creatures such as ourselves if your claims of power are to be taken as truth.” 

“I have no intention to kill you, Klaus,” She pushes her chair back from the table, standing up. Silently, she gestures for him to do the same. “I have not yet told you why I do what I do here.” 

“You haven’t even told me what you do here, let alone why,” 

She chuckles freely and he ignores the chill that travels down his spine at the sound. It’s like she’s been waiting on him to break this dam between them, and now that her secret is out, she’s alive. 

She’d told him earlier to realize the weight that is behind her trust, her honesty. He will admit to himself that he had underestimated it, even in the wake of her precautions.

“Your family is not expecting you tonight, right?” 

He raises his brows but shakes his head. “I told them I’d be having dinner with you and that I’d be out for the night. Why do you ask?” 

“We’ll be taking a trip. I have things to do,”

It’s all she says before she leads him into her bedroom, shutting the door firmly behind them. 

────── 

Draped in cloaks that covered their faces in shadows she had promised him would keep them hidden while they made their way through muddy alleys and thick groves of trees, Klaus couldn’t help but wonder just what he’d gotten himself into. 

He didn’t often admit that he was in over his head– was rarely in such a position at all– but this. This was something he was utterly in the dark about. The irony wasn’t lost on him, either. 

“Where are we going, Princess?” 

“You may call me Nyxia, you know. You did earlier,” 

“I am nothing if not a gentleman, Princess Nyxia,” 

She rolls her eyes, but there’s an unfamiliar degree of humor in the action. He’s still discombobulated at her complete flip of a switch, but he’s trying to familiarize himself with it. He selfishly hopes that she doesn’t slide that cold mask back on when they return to the castle. 

“They’ll be just through here,” Nyxia led them through another tightly packed thicket of trees, and just as Klaus was about to complain, they broke through into a clearing that nearly took his breath away. 

Though they were undoubtedly still surrounded by the forest she’d traipsed them through for the past hour, at least, this ovaloid clearing was shrouded in a different kind of darkness than the night that encased the rest of the area. 

Light up by the stars glimmering just out of reach above their heads, women mingled about, stopping to talk to one another. A few children ran by, laughing as they chased one another barefoot through the trees, disappearing out of sight and earshot as soon as they left the area, only to reappear before him like a bursting bubble. 

Klaus turned slightly to look at Nyxia, watching her pull her cloak down off her head and smile kindly, genuinely, to the people who had stopped and gathered around them. Klaus took the cue and pulled his own hood off, and his presence immediately earned wary looks. 

Glancing at Nyxia, he fought the urge to jump when her hand landed on his arm, her face contorting into an understanding but reassuring look. “No, no, look,” 

She pulled Klaus closer to her, keeping her hand wrapped around his arm as he looked warily at the sea of faces watching him. Feeling entirely caught off guard, he stayed silent, happily letting Nyxia take the reins.

“This is my betrothed,” Her words immediately earn a variety of reactions. From the children, their hesitance turns into immediate adoration. From the older women, teasing laughs are shared between them, and Nyxia bats a hand out to silence them, though it’s not done out of real offense. 

Friends, he realizes. These are her friends. She’s brought him to meet her friends that she has hidden in this patch of woods, further secluding a place that already doesn’t exist outside of its own bubble. 

An unavoidable arrow of fondness shoots down his spine, and he bats it away as quickly as he can. 

“So our lovely princess has finally brought a prince to meet us,” One of the older women grins tauntingly, and Klaus eyes the wrinkles around her mouth that only come from smiling too much, and the strands of gray hair falling out of the braids she’s got piled atop her head. 

“Klaus,” He says, somewhat shocked by the emotion in his voice. “You may call me Klaus.” 

“Klaus, then,” The woman nods, conveying something to Nyxia that is seemingly translated between the two of them, though Klaus couldn’t even begin to guess what went unsaid. 

Nyxia finally removes her hand from his arm to reach into her cloak, pulling three small bottles out and passing them off to the older woman, whose face turns somewhat solemn. 

“I know that one is for Merida,” The woman starts, meeting Nyxia’s gaze from beneath her lashes. “But who are the other two?” 

“Reya and Liesl,” 

The woman curses beneath her breath and apologizes when the children nearby gasp. 

“When am I to bring this to them?”

“Within the week. It has only been getting worse lately,” 

As if she were a soldier being told her life was being offered up on the chopping block, the woman nodded and tucked the vials into the deep pockets of the dress she wore. “I will send word once they are here.” 

“Thank you, Theresé,” She grabs Klaus’s arm gently once more, beginning to steer him towards the path they’d taken, but she stops short, looking over her shoulder with a slight smirk. “You are all invited to the wedding, of course. Next month. I will send someone to escort you to the castle.” 

A bout of excited tittering follows them out, and they walk in silence, heading a bit of the way back towards the castle before she leads them off to the left, walking them across one of the runoff creeks that flow with the river through town.

He remains silent until she leaves his side to push open a gate ahead of them, the metal creaking and groaning beneath her force, but giving way eventually. 

This time, when Klaus steps forward, he instantly knows where he is. “The orchard,” 

“Yes,” Nyxia takes a deep breath in, releasing it quietly. “Come, let’s sit.” 

She leads him to a wooden bench down the main aisle in between the trees full of ripe fruit, all looking ready to be harvested and used. 

“That place,” He starts once they’ve been seated for a moment, Klaus watching Nyxia’s profile as she basks beneath shadows and night of her own making. “What is it?” 

“It has no name,” She informs him, her voice unexpectedly soft.

She’s been so different this entire night, he wonders how long she’s been waiting for someone to just ask her these questions. Every person who’s been close enough to do it has been too scared of what wrath they may face if they did ask her about the oddities of her home, but Klaus did it because he can’t help but push people. 

“It has no name, and no one knows of it besides the ones who live there, and myself. Now, you do, too,” 

“What is the purpose of it? Why is it only women and children?” 

She takes a long moment to think about her words, and he can see the way she struggles to verbalize her thoughts because no one had ever thought to ask her before. “Just because I am darkness does not mean that I can control all that exists in this world. I can’t take away what already exists, no matter how much I wish to. That place is what I call a loophole. I have them hidden all around the world. Because I cannot erase what already exists, I must find a way to work around it. To remove the darkness I wish to see gone without violating the laws of my making.” 

“And what exactly have you been working around?” 

“Humanity,” She says simply. “With every passing decade, they tear themselves apart more and more. My loopholes exist to take people out of that chaos, of the darkness. Sometimes it’s a hungry child or a bastard,” 

Klaus glances away for a moment before forcing his gaze back to hers. 

“Sometimes it is a woman that gets sold to the highest bidder. The woman I spoke to, Theresé, was one of the first women I saved from a nearby village. Her husband was an utter brute and had killed his first wife when she had barely seen sixteen name days. Theresé was strong, but there was only so much she could do before the inevitable. So I stepped in and I proposed a hypothetical situation to her, where all she would have to do is make him dinner and serve him wine, and meet me outside of her home later that night.

“I did not think she would do it, but when the moon was high in the sky, I waited outside of her house and barely breathed until she was standing before me in one piece, with tears in her eyes and bruises on her cheek. So I told her who I was and what I wanted to do, and she said she would help me if I continued to save women who had been in her position. So I have. The girls I mentioned, Reya and Liesl. Young girls, friends since childhood. They were married off to the same man, a prince of some second-rate kingdom a few days north that had already gone through 3 wives. They have just found out they’re both pregnant, and fear raising children in the environment they live in.” 

Realization dawns on him. “You give them poison. The wine you make,” 

She hums in assent and silence falls between them once more, the princess dutifully letting Klaus turn the events of the night over and over in his head, finally slotting pieces together where they’d been misaligned for months. 

“Why?” He breathes out, his tone of disbelief earning her attention once more. “Why did you bring me there when you’ve barely spoken to me all these months? When you have known what I am and who my family is, and you knew I was suspicious from the very start, why have you just now shown me the truth?” 

Sighing, Nyxia looks down at her hands folded neatly in her lap. “I fear that my honesty is about to get me in trouble for the first time tonight.” 

“Just tell me,” He shakes his head pleadingly. “Please.” 

“Death consumes your very soul, Klaus,” Her voice takes on a distant tone, one he recognizes more than any fondness or humor she’s shown throughout the night. It’s the way she’d spoken to him since he first arrived, down to that very morning in the throne room, overlooking preparations for their wedding. “It is a fire that burns you from the inside out. And because of that fire, there is a shadow on you. And in that shadow, I exist. I see parts of you that you likely would not share with me, and for good reason.” 

Klaus can’t help the way he flinches, shifting away from her on the bench. She looks unsurprised at this particular reaction, but her fingers twitch like she’s going to reach out for him again. 

She doesn’t. 

“I have known you much longer than you have known me, and for that, I apologize. When you first arrived, I was still hesitant to believe what I had felt, and I– I am much different in the daylight. I am at my weakest when the sun is out, and that has never changed. But– other things have.” 

“Your father–”

“He is not my father,” She cuts him off, voice reverting to that cold indifference for a split second. “Once upon a time, he was a man. A king. But he was not a kind man, let alone a kind king. So I took the darkness in his mind, and I collapsed it from within. I made him hollow with it, and now he is but a puppet. A face to put on our currency, so that I may do as I please without so much attention. My people remember the cruel man, and they remember what I did for them. That is why I have their respect. Their loyalty. Trust breeds trust.” 

Klaus’s jaw clenches. “And when you decide you’re ready to become Queen one day, and I become a King, will you also make me into a puppet? Will I be nothing but a conduit of political jargon made to distract people from your loopholes?” 

Nyxia’s eyes burn, but they are dark. Almost black. 

“I did not bring you here to make you a puppet, Niklaus,” 

“Then why did you bring me here? Tell me, Nyxia. Tell me the truth.” 

“I brought you here because I want to protect you,” 

Klaus’s lip curls in a snarl and he stands up, cloak billowing around him. He turns at the feeling of a slight breeze and finds himself looking at the castle from a high distance, and he wonders if he’d been in such shock that he hadn’t noticed their uphill hike, or if this was another one of her tricks. 

Clenching his jaw, he turns to look down at her. “I do not need protecting, Princess. I have done nothing but protect myself and my family for hundreds of years.” 

“I know that, Klaus,” She spits out, looking as angry as he feels. Both of them are stubborn to a fatal degree. “But I want you to let me do it anyway!” 

Klaus lets out a harsh breath through his nose, turning to look away from her as his chest heaves with frustrated breaths. An overwhelming sense of exhaustion practically slaps him in the face as it settles over him and he finds his racing thoughts finally slowing down, seeming to process in his mind after the eventful night. 

“I understand that this has all been unexpected,” She starts, voice carefully neutral in the wake of both of their tempers. “And I will not blame you for being upset. But trust me when I say that I have your best interests in heart, for you and your family.” 

“I’m to trust you after you’ve shown me only a fraction of the truth?” 

Her soft look has shuttered away when he looks at her again. “I told you,” She whispers, voice quiet but certainly not weak with how thick it was around the emotion clenching around her windpipe. “That I was putting all of my trust into you the moment I told you what I am. The danger that I have thrust upon you and myself just by sharing all of this with you is endless. I have bared my soul to you in a single night, Klaus Mikaelson, and then you spit in my face by asking me if I am trustworthy.” 

“Nyxia,” 

She stands from the bench abruptly, pulling the hood of her cloak back up over her head. “We should go. I don’t want to run into the guards at the shift change.” 

“Nyxia, just–”

“We’re leaving,” She cuts him off, not looking back to see if he’s following after her as she stalks off towards the gates she’d opened for him, just for him, moments ago. “Either join me, or find your own way back.” 

Klaus pulls his own hood up and is quick to fall into step a few paces behind her because he isn’t nearly stupid enough to think that their easygoing atmosphere from earlier is still lingering. All because he couldn’t stop the traitorous beating of his heart and the way his skin crawled at the thought of entrusting the safety of his family to anyone else. 

She is going to be family soon enough, though. If she’ll still have him, that is. 

────── 

The tension in the castle is thick for a few days before it’s suddenly dampened with something painful. 

Rain begins to pour and does not stop for three days straight. Most foot traffic that is in and out of the castle for wedding planning is put on pause at the King’s order. Not worth risking the safety and integrity of any person or thing for one wedding. 

Klaus doesn’t see or hear from Nyxia for those three days, and on the fourth day of heavy downpours, of him being stuck in the library with his brother or listening to his sister drone on about a particularly handsome guard, he breaks. He walks the path the sentry had taken him down into the East Wing of the castle and knocks on the thick wooden door, tilting his head just to hear the heart beating faintly on the other side of it. It’s the only reason he even knows she’s alive, and he can’t stop the relief that soothes his nerves. 

It doesn’t manage to get rid of the cloud of guilt that’s been hanging above his head since that night in the orchard, nor does it make him want to turn around and leave. 

“Princess?” His voice is low, but he knows she’ll hear it if she’s listening. “I was just…” 

He trails off, unsure of what excuse to offer up for his impromptu visit. A lie, a half-truth. The whole truth. 

It’s the least he could do in return, offer her honesty. Since he threw hers right back in her face four nights ago. 

“May I come in, please?” 

Silence follows his question, but when he pushes on the door slightly, it creaks open, and he steps through as quickly as possible, not willing to take the chance that it was a fluke. He’s greeted with darkness broken up by dim firelight, and his eyes take a moment to adjust, that concern inside of him chipping away at his pride. 

“Princess?” He asks again, voice low in the dim room. His brows twitch on his forehead, pulling together. “Nyxia?” 

There’s a shift of fabric from the four-poster bed a few feet in front of him, and he can see the orange glow in the room the moment she turns to face him. 

Even in the poor lighting, he can see the sunken shadows of her face and the way the stars in her eyes have gone dull. 

“Nyxia?” He nearly gasps her name as he rushes to her bedside, dropping to his knees beside it as he takes in her sickly features. “What’s happened to you?” 

She lets out a shaky breath that sounds like it hurts. “Sometimes… sometimes I let them take too much,” 

Confusion passes over him momentarily before a realization hits him. “The loopholes… this place… it drains you, doesn’t it?” 

She nods where her head is pressed into the pillow. 

He lifts a trembling hand to her cheek, brushing invisible dirt off of her cheek. He can feel the clammy sweat tainting her skin, the fever roaring in her veins. How odd it must be to be an immortal creature taken down by something comparable to a cold. 

“Why?” He shakes his head, genuine disbelief coating the word as he watches his betrothed wheeze out a few more breaths. “Why do you let them do this? Why do you do this?” 

She smiles and there's a tired pull to it, and she leans into his touch, eyes fluttering shut for a moment. “People are so scared of me,” Her voice is impossibly soft, so unfamiliar, and yet he feels that ache in his chest, the desire to hear it more. To hear her more. “They are scared of everything. The least I can do is make my darkness feel safer.” 

He thinks it shatters something in him, to hear her grand reasoning behind everything. To hear that underneath that cold exterior, and the soft one, too, the woman before him just wants people to feel safe in her shadows. She wants them to leave behind lives of unhappiness, to not feel fear when the moon rises in the sky and stars hang over their heads. She doesn’t want them to fear the thought of a monster under their bed but rather feel protected by it. By her. 

She wants to do that for him. For his family. And he’d practically laughed in her face. 

A shame buries itself deep in him, and he finds himself lurching forward slightly, face hovering above hers to keep her attention while she loses her lucidity before his eyes. “What can I do? What can I do to make this better?” 

She reaches a hand up from beneath her blankets and rests it atop his. “Stay. Just stay with me, please,” 

He nods and holds back more words he’s simply not ready to say yet. Reluctantly leaves her side for a moment to bring a chair to her bedside, and once again intertwine their hands together. 

He watches her fall asleep and continues watching her well into the night. It doesn’t feel like a chore, or anything of the sort. He thinks he’d be content to spend a few years of his eternity just sitting here with her. 

────── 

It takes another four days for Nyxia to be able to get out of bed without feeling weak. In those days she regains a bit of that life back into her eyes, and Klaus is there to see every speck of it grow. He sees the shadows get darker again, not as faded and murky as they seemed to be when she was in the worst of it. It makes him happy in a way that he wouldn’t have ever expected it to. 

They spend those four days together in a bubble of their own, with small touches shared between each other. Lingering glances and longing looks are shared from across the dining table while they share meals with his family and the king. 

He doesn’t know if all of it means he’s forgiven for his harsh words in the orchard. He doesn’t let himself hope for anything, because he’s not sure if he deserves it after everything. 

It’s a particular train of thought he hasn’t let come to fruition for his own sanity. Instead, he’s relished in the freshly budding relationship between him and his wife-to-be. The partnership that’s being created. The friendship.

He finds himself in the library that remains hidden behind one, nondescript door that opens up to high ceilings, and endless bookshelves. The first time she’d taken him to see it, he’d spent the entire evening looking through the books, getting lost in the history books she had in her collection. 

As the days go by, he finds himself there more and more, and it seems that Nyxia’s in the same boat. 

Hands skimming against the worn spines of the books, Klaus’s mind travels near and far, and he lets his imagination run wild. It’s a rare occurrence, this vulnerability that he’s found within these walls, beneath Nyxia’s care, so he can’t be faulted for being caught off guard when a book slides out from the shelf on the other side and he snaps his gaze up to meet her amused one. 

There’s no doubt she misses the slight intake of breath he does at her sudden presence, but she gives him the grace of not saying anything about it out loud. Her face is framed between the two shelves and she grins widely, unabashedly, in the shadows of the books. “Hiding in the art history books again, Niklaus?” 

He ducks his head, glancing at the lone book he is holding in his hands, a finger shoved between pages to hold his place while he searches through other titles. Lifting his eyes back up to meet hers once more, he shrugs a shoulder, poorly feigning obliviousness. 

“It’s alright, at least I always know where I can find you,” She quickly dismisses his uncharacteristic shyness, and he’s once again grateful for it, even if he’s not sure if she does it for her own sake or his. “I wanted to ask you a question, actually, about the wedding.” 

He raises a brow, not hiding his surprise. She rarely brings the wedding up to him these days, and with the celebration in just five days, the castle staff was bustling about more than ever. Klaus only ever looked at the gold and white decor lining the throne room in passing, usually hurrying through to track Nyxia down somewhere in the castle, or dodging his brother’s increasingly personal questions about the state of his relationship with the Princess.

He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t thinking about the wedding, despite Nyxia rarely saying anything to him about it. He found himself wondering just how the day would transpire as it drew closer, wondered how all of the fittings he did for his garments a while back would look like in the end, and wondered endlessly about just what Nyxia would be walking down the aisle in. 

“It’s about the guest list,”

Her voice pulls him from the frequent thought and he bites the tip of his tongue in silent reprimand. Clearing his throat quietly, he looked at her. “What of it? I thought invitations were sent out months ago,” 

“They were,” She confirms, nodding once. Her voice takes on a hint of that diplomatic lilt she likes to pull out of thin air with him when she feels she’s approaching a difficult subject. It instantly puts his nerves on edge, but he tries not to get defensive. If there’s anything he’s learned with her, it’s that he’ll do nothing but regret his knee-jerk reaction to bare his teeth and snarl at the first feeling of danger coming his way. He knows just as well that Nyxia would never put him in danger on purpose. 

“I was just wondering if there was anyone you wanted to invite,” She continued, glancing away from him. “I know Rebekah and Elijah will be there, of course, but is there anyone else you want to come?” 

He’s quick to respond, barely even thinking about it. “I’ve become familiar enough with your subjects that they’re plenty for me, I think. Especially the women coming from the loophole. I’m looking forward to seeing them,” 

Her face softens with an endless fondness he’s not quite sure what to do with. Any time she offers it up to him, he does his best to just hold it gently in between them, like it was a cloud threatening to seep through his fingers and dissipate into nothingness. 

“I am as well,” She smiles briefly before her face falls back into a placating look. “But you’re sure you don’t have any friends you might not have thought of? Or any more family? I’m sure you’ve… outlived… most of your ancestors, but perhaps there’s a distant cousin that was never turned? Or your… your parents, perhaps?” 

Klaus instantly realizes the true nature of her question, and once again has to fight off the urge to snap at her and make her go away. It’s an easier path to take than explaining just why his parents won’t be in attendance at their wedding or part of their futures at all, and why he wouldn’t want them to in the first place, but he finds himself wanting to try. It’s the least he could do for her.

“No, my– my parents are no longer– an option,” He says carefully, brows furrowing as he revisits centuries-old aches and stabs of pain laced with a childish hurt. “I wouldn’t want them here even if they were.” 

Her face twists with concern before she disappears from the side of the shelf, and Klaus’s eyes widen momentarily before he hears the click of her shoes growing closer. She rounds the corner of the bookshelf swiftly, coming to stand before him with a practiced look of understanding on her face meant to convey her state of heeding. 

“You know by now that I’m a bastard,” She nods. “Even though my father was already unhappy with how I came about, it worsened when he learned my father was the leader of the werewolf pack in our village. I wasn’t just a bastard, but a monster, then, too. I faced abuse from my father my entire life, and my mother always let it happen, or encouraged it, if only to save herself from facing his wrath for her own mistakes.” 

Silently, she reaches out and grabs the book from his hand, setting it flat on the shelf in favor of grabbing his hands in hers. 

“When my youngest brother Henrik was killed by the pack my true father was a part of, my mother was overcome with the grief of losing a child and that’s when she turned us. When she made the spell to make us into these undying creatures who survive off of blood. She and Mikael killed us all and we were forced to transition when we woke.” 

Squeezing his hands, Nyxia shakes her head. “You don’t have to go on, Klaus.” 

He shakes his head, waving off her apology. “It’s alright. I want you to know the truth,” Her already soft face opens more and she takes another minute step towards him, closing the distance between them a bit more. “With everything heightened after my transition, I was so overcome with my anger that I lost control and I– I killed her. I killed my mother.”

“Nik,” 

“I regretted it as soon as I did it. And I buried her body where no one would find it, and I told my family that she was killed by our father. Because in my head, she was. She let him abuse me, she let him turn even a fraction of that hatred onto Rebekah and Elijah, and the rest of them, and I– I truly hated her for it. What good of a mother was she if she could just watch that happen to her children?” 

He clenches his jaw and tilts his head slightly, biting down the bitterness that still swims in his veins all these years later. “Mikael knew what I did, though. I don’t know how, but he always knew. And I– I don’t know what’s happened to him, I don’t know if he’s dead or alive, like us or something else, but I– I do not want him here. I wouldn’t want him here, no matter the situation. I never want someone like Mikael to find this place, because a single touch from him would destroy it all.” 

Nyxia shakes her head immediately, eyes wide and full of something that transcends simple fondness. “He wouldn’t, Niklaus. I wouldn’t let him ruin it. This is my home– this is our home. I won’t let him ruin it for you.” 

Klaus wished he could believe her. And he knows she knows that. And he knows they both know it’s truly got nothing to do with her, and everything to do with the fact that his father has ruined his life at every turn since the day he was born. It’s just what he does. He could so easily take this beautiful thing Klaus has been given and tarnish it with a single touch. 

“I had to inherit these shadows, you know?” She says suddenly, taking him off guard. “I wasn’t born with them, not really. I was born with power, I was made of this power. But in order to have them at the capacity at which they exist now, I had to wait for my mother to die. She was my best friend. But I think that made it all the worse when I had to watch her wither away through each century, until one day, she became nothing more than the night sky we came from. Afterward, I was so overcome with grief that I didn’t even acknowledge the shadows. I wanted no part of it, not without her,” 

She huffs out a small, wry laugh and shakes her head. “But they are very stubborn. They persisted, and one day, they brought me into the shadows and showed me the light that exists within them. And after that day, I started doing things differently. It’s been a long time since then, but I still remember all of those feelings like it was yesterday. And I know that because you have been given the gift and the curse of eternity just as I have, that you understand it like no one else does. So you must believe me when I say this, husband, but it will not be like this forever. And I am making you a promise now that your– that Mikael will not ever make his mark in my kingdom. You and I will live in peace for the rest of our days, with our people and no one can take that from us. Do you hear me? Do you hear me, Niklaus?” 

He nods, clenching his teeth together as he swallows around the concrete lump in his throat. “Of course. Of course I do,” 

“Good,” She nods once. “You can trust me. I swear it on my life.” 

He nods again and she offers him a small smile, like she’s wary to shift the graveness that had settled over them into something else. He jostles their conjoined hands, and her eyebrows tick together, silently coaxing his words out. 

“How did you do it?” He asks quietly. “How did you find the light when you were surrounded by the darkness?” 

Her eyes suddenly burned with ferocity, an ancient thing that had roots buried deep inside of her. A small fraction of her power. “I carved it out of the shadows with my bare hands and I did not stop until my fingers bled. Until my nails were cracked and my body screamed for me to stop. And I would do it again if it meant I kept you and your family safe. Understand that, Klaus. If nothing else, understand that I’ll bleed for you.” 

Klaus isn’t sure what to do in the face of her devotion. He feels as if it should be the other way around– him worshiping her, instead of this blood-promise she’s made to him. He isn’t sure what to do or say, but he is sure of one thing; he loves her. And he would bleed for her just as well. 

────── 

The morning of their wedding, a low hum of activity overtakes the calm of the castle and does not falter, well into the early hours of afternoon. Klaus was summoned from his rooms just minutes after the sun was up and brought to the seamstresses that he’d seen increasingly over the months and put into the intricate suit made specifically for him. 

His trousers were plain, simple, and tucked carefully into shoes that almost felt like armor. His surcoat was donned with intricate, weaving lines of gold that gleamed in the sunlight, woven into the fabric like they were the very veins in his body. Like it was a showcase of the life that flowed through him, scorching like the sun for all eternity. When he was draped with a mantle of white fur and more golden details along the draped fabric, he looked in the lone mirror before him and felt, for the first time, that he was truly a king. And just after that thought, he couldn’t help but wonder what his queen looked like. 

When he is escorted to the throne room, he can hear the dozens of heartbeats waiting on the other side of the doors before him and he only has a moment to breathe before the doors are swung open and the guests are standing, turning to face him. 

His blue eyes immediately shoot to the front of the room, where the king awaits his presence at the end of the aisle, where his brother and sister stand on either side of the large arbor, looking at him with an odd pride gleaming in their eyes. 

Bracing himself, he lifts his chin slightly and walks forward, his hands clasped in front of him as he meets the eyes of strangers, all watching him like they’re waiting for him to show his true colors. When he nears the end of the aisle, he looks over to his left and sees Theresé standing there, with a row of familiar faces lined up beside her, and he can’t stop the small twitch of his lips when she meets his gaze head-on with a smile that radiates pure excitement. 

He tears his gaze away from the women and children of the loophole and meets the king’s eyes, exchanging a nod with the man as he takes his place at the center of the room. He turns his head towards the doors he’d come through moments ago, and finds himself holding his breath as he waits for them to open once more, and reveal his bride. 

He prepares himself for the sight of her, but when the doors swing open, guards standing on either side of her, he thinks himself a fool for ever thinking he’d be prepared for the sight of her dressed in a white gown that trails behind her in a sea of golden embroidery that gleams just as his does. Like the life that burns in him also burns in her, despite the way her shadows carve out the angles of her face, the bridge of her nose. 

He knew her dress would compliment him, of course, but he hadn’t anticipated just how much it would take his breath away, to see himself standing before a kingdom, waiting for her slow, graceful steps to come to a stop as she neared him. 

Her own fur-lined mantle was just as carefully draped over her, and it went down the length of her train, the fabric moving along with her as if it were just water rippling along rocks. Slow, elegant, natural. Like she was born to be this. 

For the first time, her arms are bare before him, and the skin below her jaw is as well. Her unexpected bareness exposes things he hadn’t known were hiding beneath her long sleeves and high collars. The shadows that run in her blood wrap around her arms, weaving like vines up across her chest and down into unknown territory, still hidden from his sight and touch. He swallows roughly at the sight of the image she creates before him, her head tilted back ever so slightly just to maintain his gaze as she steps up before him, her hands immediately reaching to lay in his proffered palms. 

He can’t find his voice in time to tell her that she looks beautiful. To make vows to her before they’ve even started. 

The king clears his throat quietly, raising his hand in a silent gesture that has the guests taking their seats once more. 

“People of Riverend, we gather here to witness the joining of two souls. To celebrate a love that withstands life, death, and everything in between. A love forged in shadows and cradled by the moon, that blossoms beneath the sun. It is my honor to stand before you all and mark the start of our future here in these cherished lands beneath their incoming rule.” 

The king shifts, turning slightly to look at Klaus directly. “Lord Mikaelson, repeat after me: I offer my soul to you in exchange for yours, and vow to love and cherish you long after we return to the stars,” 

Klaus swallows and wets his lips, meeting Nyxia’s gleaming eyes. “I offer my soul to you in exchange for yours,” His voice trembles slightly, and her fingers press into his wrist, squeezing reassuringly. “And vow to love and cherish you long after we return to the stars.” 

Nyxia mirrors his swallow, seemingly biting back her own emotion. “I offer my soul to you in exchange for yours,” Her pulse stutters beneath his fingertips, and his blood burns with it. “And vow to love and cherish you long after we return to the stars.” 

“As witnessed by your people, do you both promise to serve them to the best of your abilities? To bleed with them, or for them, shall it one day be necessary? To feed and clothe them, and wash the dirt off of their feet, should they ever ask you to?” 

They both nod once. “We do,” 

The King mirrors their nod and continues. “May this marriage be protected by the powers that be. May it never bend or break, or waver in even the strongest of storms. May you both know one another’s love like no other. May the darkness protect you as it has protected others since the dawn of time,” 

The king takes in a short breath and shifts, holding his hands up for his palms to face the sunlight gleaming in through the stained glass windows. “By the power entrusted unto me, I bless this marriage for the years to come. I now pronounce you husband and wife. Lord Mikaelson, you may kiss–” 

“Stop this nonsense!” 

Gasps echo throughout the throne room and Klaus’s blood freezes as his head snaps over, his gaze locking onto his father’s immediately. 

The man at the end of the aisle takes a step forward, a mean smirk on his face. “Is it not utter blasphemy to make a king out of a bastard?” 

Klaus breathes out a breath that shudders in his lungs painfully, and he looks past Nyxia to find Rebekah standing frozen in her place, tears bubbling in her eyes at the sight of Mikael. He doesn’t need to look at Elijah to know that the man is likely boiling with barely stifled rage. 

Mikael takes another step forward and Klaus flinches back instinctively, despite the distance that stretches between them. 

The man laughs at the sight, and Klaus finally looks at Nyxia, only to find her glaring at his father like her very gaze could burn him into ash. 

“You have no business being here, Mikael,” Elijah’s voice bites out the words from behind him and he hears his brother take a step down, quick to be a buffer between him and Klaus. “Leave now, and you will not face any consequences.” 

Mikael laughs again. “And from whom would these consequences be dealt? You? Or perhaps Rebekah?” The girl flinches, tears skittering down her flushed cheeks at his ridicule. “Certainly not Klaus. He’s not capable of it.” 

“It will be me,” Nyxia’s voice rings out, firm and cold in a way that Klaus hasn’t heard it before, not even in their worst moments. “You will not speak of my husband in that manner. I’ll have your head for treason if you’re not careful.” 

“You’d take my head for him?” Mikael’s brows raise like he’s actually surprised at the prospect. “I hate to break it to you, girl, but he is nothing. He comes from no high standing, he has no riches and nothing to give you in exchange for all that you give him. Whatever he has told you in those regards is a filthy lie. That’s all he is– a liar.” 

Hot tears burn at the back of Klaus’s eyes and he struggles to find his voice again. 

Nyxia drops his hands and Klaus fronts at the loss of her touch, only to reach for her as she turns and steps towards Mikael, unwavering beneath his hateful glare. “Don’t,” He gets out, pulling her back by her arm. “Do not go near him.” 

She wrenches her arm from his hold, looking at him apologetically before she hardens her gaze once more and faces his father. “You come to my kingdom and interrupt my wedding to spew nonsense. You have the looks of a crazed man, Mikael. I should have my sentries imprison you until I find it worth my time to sentence you.” 

He grins like her words are a challenge. “I’d like to see you try, Princess,” He spits her title out and before anyone can blink, he holds the tip of a dagger beneath her chin. 

Gasps of fear ring out through the room and Klaus stumbles forward, stopped only by Elijah holding him just out of their father’s reach. “Do not touch her!” He growls out the words, black veins crawling beneath his eyes, earning a mocking chuckle from the man. 

“Don’t tell me you actually love her, Niklaus,” 

Klaus says nothing, which is answer enough, and it earns another round of derisive laughter from the man. 

“What a ridiculous thing, love,” He tsks his tongue, shaking his head as if scolding his bastard son. “Nothing but a weakness to someone like you who is already softened by his childish emotions. It’s nice to know that you’re still such a disappointment, Niklaus.” 

Klaus lunges for the man but is once again stopped by his brother. 

“Klaus,” It’s Nyxia who says his name, which calms the racing of his heart in his ears, and he looks at her desperately. “Do you trust me?” 

His brows furrow deeply, lines twisting onto his pale skin. “What?” 

She gives him another look that conveys an apology he doesn’t need, and he feels his stomach swoop with fear. 

“Nyx,” He breathes out, eyes wide as he starts to shake his head. 

She rolls her eyes away from him like it pains her to do so, and looks to his father, uncaring of the tip of the dagger digging into her chin. “I told you I would bleed for you, Klaus. And I shall.” 

She takes one long step forward and latches her hand around the handle of the dagger and digs her nails into Mikael’s skin, earning a grunt of annoyance from the man. In the blink of an eye, a cloud of black consumes them, and the last thing Nyxia hears is Klaus’s yell for her to stop. 

Her hold on Mikael falters and they fall away from each other, thrown into shadows and thrown apart in the same breath. 

It’s been centuries since she’s been here. Encased in nothingness, something that cannot even be considered night because it is so dark it does nothing but swallow the life that enters it. 

She hears Mikael’s breathing through the darkness and hears him struggle to find footing as she does the same. 

“You,” She speaks out, voice echoing into the void. Swarming around them like a crow’s call. “You have tarnished his soul. You are the darkness that exists inside of him, and I am going to rip every inch of life out of you even if it kills me.” 

“Such meaningful threats,” The man speaks back, voice tinged in that smugness that sets her nerves alight with rage. “To think that you have fallen in love with a man like Niklaus. You could have such potential if you weren’t clinging to frivolous emotions.” 

“You underestimate me, Mikael. You mock me, even now, when you are surrounded by something that does not exist without me and my power. It is your arrogance that will kill you, and I will offer your heart on a platter to my husband as a wedding gift.” 

She lunges for the sound of him in the void, grunting as they blindly swing for each other, slamming fists and swinging daggers over and over with no sign of stopping. 

She doesn’t know how long she was in this place the last time. Doesn’t know how long they’ve been here now. It could be mere seconds, it could be years. Nothing exists in this place, especially not time. 

Blood from a cut that is already healed trails down her cheek, she can feel the wetness as she brushes her fingers along her skin. She can hear Mikael’s ragged breaths, her endless onslaught of pain catching up to him. 

“He’s an abomination,” Mikael spits out. “Not just in name, but as a creature. It is not enough that he has no soul as this undead thing, but he has that mutt inside of him, waiting to be unleashed. He doesn’t deserve to live.” 

“You don’t get to decide that,” She bites back, lips curling in a snarl. “But I do. And he will live with me until the Earth takes its last breath. And you will never take anything from him again, so long as I am at his side. You will never hurt your children again. I am taking back the darkness that is inside of you. I am taking the very air from your lungs,”

She tackles him blindly, knees pinning him down as she presses her hands roughly down onto his chest, her fingertips itching with heat as she does exactly that. “You will know pain like you’ve never known before where you are going. And with everything in me, I swear that I will not let there be a day that goes by that you do not suffer.” 

The shadows that warm her skin crawl as she takes his life little by little, and she can feel his breaths begin to shallow with every word she speaks. 

“Let your last thought on this Earth be the knowledge that I love your son, Mikael. And not even you can take that from him.” 

A scream tears from her throat as she lifts her hands off of his chest and slams them back down, his body disappearing beneath her as if it had never existed. A burst of energy explodes from her and she nearly falls onto her face, catching herself on her hands and knees as it blows around her like a gust of wind. 

She grits her teeth, trying to catch her breath as the void grows smaller around her, trying to swallow her whole as it had Mikael. But she had let it have Mikael. She would not let it have her. Not when she had something to go back to. Someone. 

“No,” She bites out, jaw clenched tight enough that her bones creak. “You will let me go back.” 

She digs her nails into the nothingness beneath her hands, skin scraping off at the fight it puts back. She lifts her hands from the void and brings them back down, clawing at it like a rabid animal. 

“Let me out,” She says. Demands. “Let me out!” 

Her voice echoes on a yell and she feels a scream build deep in her chest as she clenches her hands into fists and brings them down onto the ground, and she can feel it begin to crack beneath her force. 

The ache in her hands grows with each hit but she doesn’t stop, doesn’t let up, not even as the first cracks of light bleed through. 

With just that sliver of light, she can see the broken skin of her hands and it’s such a guttural reminder of her past that she raises her hands once more and brings them down onto the shattering void with a strength she did not know she possessed. 

All at once she is thrown out of the darkness and she flinches at the burst of brightness that encases her so suddenly. The sound of startled gasps and fearful noises makes her stumble and she tries and subsequently fails to get to her feet, her bloodied hands smearing along the pristine white aisle she had walked down. 

Arms encase her and she turns her head to meet Klaus’s gaze as he pulls her into his chest, eyes wide in fear at the sight of her blood, no doubt mixed with some of Mikael’s that likely splattered onto her at some point in their tussle. 

“Where did you go? What did you do?” He breathes out, eyes brimming with tears. “Where is Mikael?” 

She lets out a shuddering noise as she clings to him, staining his surcoat with blood. “I took it back,” She grits her teeth, fire burning in her eyes for a split second before her exhaustion wipes it out. “I took my darkness back from him, and I turned him into nothing.” 

Klaus makes a noise of grief that she knows is not for his father, but for the thought of her doing something he knows weakens her. 

“I’m alright,” She assures him, finally looking past him at her kingdom that watches on warily. “I’m alright, I promise.” 

Klaus holds onto her tighter like he’s scared she’ll disappear again, and she lets him as exhaustion weighs her down. 

She smiles suddenly, breathless and hopeful. “We aren’t finished here,” Her eyes shift to the king, who hurries towards them, kneeling slightly. “We were interrupted.” 

Klaus mirrors her smile, much more reserved even as his fear dissolves. “We were, weren’t we?”

“Finish it,” She looks up at the king from her place in Klaus’s lap in the aisle. “Please, finish it.” 

The king barely takes a moment before he lets his voice carry like he had before, unwavering as if nothing had happened at all. “Without further ado, Lord Mikaelson, you may kiss your bride.” 

Klaus barely lets him finish speaking before he kisses her, stealing the breath from her lungs as she gasps into it. Starlight burns in her and she raises her hand to gently cup his cheek, pulling him into her for one hard press of their lips before she pulls away, letting her hand fall from his cheek to rest against his heart. 

She turns her face into his neck and whispers into his skin, her breath making goosebumps grow in its wake. “My name,” She says. “I want you to have it.” 

He echoes it back to her softly, like he’s cradling it in his hands, and she looks up at him with stars in her eyes. 

The king speaks from above them, an excitement laced in his voice as he lifts his hands above his hand. “It is my honor to introduce to you for the first time, the Prince and Princess of Riverend!” 

Cheers burst around them, and Klaus dips his head down to hide his smile in her hair, and she clings to him just a bit tighter, her eyes fluttering. 

“Let us celebrate!” The king exclaims, another round of cheers echoing after his words. 

She pulls back slightly to look at Klaus, smiling. “I love you, Klaus,” 

He lets out a breath like she’s knocked it out of him. “I love you,” He hesitates before saying her name like he’s worried she’ll take it back from him. “I'll love you until the end of time. Never doubt that." 

"I won't." 

#klaus mikaelson #the vampire diaries #elijah mikaelson #the vampire diaries fanfiction #rebekah mikaelson #the originals #klaus mikaelson x reader #klaus mikaelson fanfiction #klaus mikaelson fluff #klaus mikaelson angst #stefan salvatore #damon salvatore #kol mikaelson

[alienssstufff]

LAST LIFE APOCALYPSE AU MASTERLIST

A very intensely written Life Series au by ME!

All general updates questions and lore can be found in the #last life apocalypse au tag! This post in particular will act as a masterlist regarding the timeline, worldbuilding and lore of the au. I wish to (hopefully) keep updating this post as more characters and arcs are revealed. 

IMPORTANT YOU VISIT THIS LINK FIRST BEFORE ENTERING (It’s pretty): > Last Life Apocalypse AU Intro (Talks about the mechanics)

Now without further ado - lets begin:

TIMELINE (Summarised)

The timeline of the AU is defined by two major arcs:

The past PROLOGUE 3RD LIFE that is the childhood of majority of the cast (location: their childhood town)

LAST LIFE PRESENT day that takes place in the woods (the main event - when the Apocalypse starts)

These are arcs that involve most if not all of the cast members from their respective seasons.

[BETWEEN ARCS] Between these arcs occur smaller events - big to some but not on a scale to affect everyone. This is the transition period after the cast graduate from Middle School and go their separate ways before reuniting (by fate) in the Last Life Woods. Events that happen in the between arcs take inspiration from the CC’s other respective series beyond the Life Series.

Some current inspirations: Evo SMP, Hermitcraft (various seasons), Scar’s TCD series, Bdubs’ SOTF. More about their involvement as updates progress.

[SCU SPIN-OFF] Consider this as an epilogue describing the state of the planet decades after the main cast has died. Not considered a ‘major arc’ as it is not focused on the main cast but exists solely for worldbuilding purposes (because I like it :] ).

WORLDBUILDING

Setting of Last Life takes place in the woods, think of American national parks or camping grounds on a road trip, or the Walking Dead (the telltale game not the show)

CLIMATE: Generic American woodlands climate but with a less generic winter weather. As the situations for the player’s get more dire, so does the environment around with forecasts for an oncoming snow blizzard from Magic Mountain as the world fades to white.

It is also during this time of year and climate where a creature known as the Wither is rumoured to roam the lands. It is a cryptid that unlike most woodland creatures, the Wither wakes from hibernation only during the Winter when it is cold enough and feasts on a very specific carnivorous diet. In reality this is known as the Patient 0 of the Bogeydisease, born and mutated within the labs of the Research Facility, leading to the downfall desolation of what is now known as the Abandoned Observatory.

MAIN LOCATIONS:

SOUTHLANDS (Camp Southlands) - Were once a popular camping hotspot before the apocalypse. The people who survived there were once camp counselors (Grian, Impulse, Mambo, Martyn, Jimmy). The grounds acted as both a family resort and a summer camp for kids  where they are divided into one of the five factions supervised by each counselor: -MARTYN Counsellor of Athletics and house of the GREEN CATS -IMPULSE Counsellor of Cooking and house of the YELLOW SUN BEARS -JIMMY Counsellor of Safety and house of the BLUE DOGS (formerly blue canaries) -MUMBO Counsellor of Crafts (shop) and house of the BLACK MOTHS -GRIAN Counsellor of (shenanigans) Arts and house of the RED BIRDS

FAIRY FORT (Fairy Fort Reserve FFR) - A geographically enclosed area dedicated to protecting the land and the endangered animals that are shelter there. Ownership of the Fairy Fort was passed along the generations of Lizzie’s family tree. The people who survived there are park rangers with Lizzie as their lead. They have current beef with the Southlanders as there are many things they disagree with and compete against.

ICE FORT (Shade-E-E’s Gas) - As it’s located near the center of the map, the ethubs ‘Ice Fort’ is one of the only ounces of urban infrastructure out in the woods. Upon arrival of the Apocalypse, it is a fortified Shade-E-E’s gas station barricaded by the only employees Bdubs and Etho (the manager). It once acted as a pitstop to drivers and travelers alike and is the only place in the woods that has a working cellphone tower and final connection to the outside world dubbed as “Etho’s Tree”.

TEAM BEST HIDEOUT / ROCKTAPUS (Abandoned Observatory/Research Centre) - An abandoned observatory squatted on by Skizz that doubled as a bunker that was originally built in preparation for a nuclear fallout. Upstairs the observatory contains secret government documents regarding information about the Bogeydisease and the Wither cryptid - Indecipherable to all except for Tango who understands them. Downstairs the bunker’s monitors are linked to several surveillance cameras in the woods.

GASLIGHT GIRLBOSS GATEKEEP (Scottage Club) - A retreat saved for the rich and elite. While the Scottage Club has its HQ here, holiday properties of its patrons are scattered all across the map (the secret green lives hideouts).

MAGIC MOUNTAIN - Kept off limits just for how dangerous the place is, no one ever goes there. Rumor has it the mountain has magic capabilities that can drive a man insane. The last human sightings near Magic Mountain were two lone hikers who by arrogance wished to conquer and come back surviving the woodland’s most treacherous point. And while they were never seen again, they say if you look very closely with a spyglass, you can catch glimpses of a small, broken up hut at the top.

THE NETHER (NETHERLANDS not-the-country): The NETHER is the closest town over from the Last Life woodlands and is home to facilities such as a Fortress Dept Store and a camping & fishing shop known as The Bastion. While hypothetically the cast could escape the woodlands to live in the Nether, it is because of the high value resources that can be found in these stores that attract both surviving scavengers and zombies alike - making the town very dangerous to defend.

The ‘nether portals’ in this au are the vehicles each team has on them to travel between locations. The Nether may be the closest town there is, but even walking there on foot is extremely dangerous - especially considering the apocalypse and the harsh elements.

BOGEYDISEASE

For legal reasons, I dropped biology in highschool as soon as I could - I do not know shit about diseases and how people develop medicine. This is a fictional disease. TLDR; I am talking out of my ass.

[Origins of the Bogeydisease and the L.I.F.E antidotes pending (secret!)]

Transfer of the disease in its early stages of evolution could only be transferred if bacteria had direct contact with the host’s bloodstream. At best (?) in small amounts the host would experience a fever and shivering. At worst the host would feel extreme fatigue, most likely dying of starvation/dehydration due to it being unaware of their hunger (and fatigue - the disease manipulates the brain into thinking the host is not fatigued). 

Nature of the disease (well.. virus) as it continues is designed to adapt with the changing environment. While most samples were not able to survive its effects, some victims of the Wither’s bite would survive and exhibit a second stage of the disease’s effects. If the host were to survive the initial stages of the disease, once the disease has fully adapted to the body of its host it would evolve in order to prolong its survival. This is evident by physical alterations of the host’s appearance.

Not just physical changes but behavioural as well. The host would act more akin to serving its natural instincts, more inclined to the hunt and the tendency to keep itself alive. 

People who are in the second stages and beyond of contracting the Bogeydisease are considered Red Lives. It is possible to cure Red Lives out of the Bogeydisease as long as the disease has not evolved to its later stages. WHEN a person is cured using a L.I.F.E antidote they may experience side-effects [explained in the INTRO]. In some instances, ex-hosts may retain some of the traits afflicted when they were Bogey.

Later stages of disease evolution. The disease and its hosts show strong similarities to how rabies can be passed between hosts. And based on how a host reacts to the disease, hosts of the disease are classified into two types:

Host is overwhelmed by the effects of the disease and dies early. If the body and surrounding scene are left untreated, the disease will continue to live on in the decomposing body and grow a special fungus that feeds off the remains. The fungus and its disease reproduces by its spores which allow the disease to not only infect the environment around but also proves the possibility in contracting an airborne variant of the disease.

Host grows accustomed to the effects of the disease exhibiting the aforementioned loss of higher brain functions above (incapable of reason and rational thought). Movements grow erratic, constantly moving as a means of maintaining fixed body temperature. For colder climates the diet of hosts relies on feasting on warm bodies. Failure to do so will induce drowsiness in the host, placing them in a slumber in order to regain energy and try again. Hosts also show signs of excessive salivation and occasional bleeding. Direct exposure to any of the host’s bodily fluids is another method in contracting the disease.

[ REMINDER THIS IS AN ONGOING AU , MORE TO BE UPDATED ]

#stufffsart #myart #last life apocalypse au #last life smp #last life #life series #life smp #trafficblr #mcyt #mcyt fanart #long post #everything written on a google doc in advance :]c

[amethystsoda]

I saw another post like this, so I wanted to make my own!

My biggest art and design inspirations, older to newer (list under jump)

Lego Clikits / Sanrio (especially Cinnamoroll) / Kim Possible / Adventure Time / MLP FIM / Bee and Puppycat / Star vs the Forces of Evil / Cucumber Quest / Temmie Chang's art for Undertale and Deltarune / Fullmetal Alchemist / Sailor Moon / Jojo's Bizarre Adventure / Toilet Bound Hanako Kun / Space Patrol Luluco and Promare by Studio Trigger / Yu Yu Hakusho (anime) / Trigun (Nightow's art, specifically!) / Witch Hat Atelier / Blue Period / Ryoko Kui's art for Dungeon Meshi + Daydream Hour

#my design inspirations #long post #animation tag #amethyst rambles #aesthetic #inspo #clikits #cinnamoroll #kim possible #adventure time #mlp fim #bee and puppycat #svtfoe #cucumber quest #utdr #fullmetal alchemist #sailor moon #jjba #tbhk #space patrol luluco #promare #yyh #trigun #wha #blue period #dunmeshi

[luvtak]

of weepy afternoons, lhc

❀ pairing lee haechan x afab!reader

❀ tw/genre est. relationship, super fluff, domestic, crying, reader’s on their period, reader is referred to as ‘girl’ a couple times and her cheeks are described to be red once :/, criminal amount of references to the movie enchanted

❀ a/n i wrote this in like an hour so it could be real rough haha, inspired by my very real need to watch enchanted when im on my period. i wrote this with this couple in mind <3 hope you enjoy it and happy august!!

❀ w/c 1058

When Haechan got home, he didn’t expect you to look so sad. There are so many ways he can envision your welcome, anywhere from loud laughing to big bear hugs, but he would never expect you to be bent over and shaking.

When he left this morning, you were buzzing with energy, telling him about all your plans for the day and how excited you were for him to be back with you. Now, you were sat on the couch sniffling into a throw pillow—making no moves to acknowledge his arrival, shoulders shaking with your cries. In the back of his mind, he can hear the TV slowly letting out noise, but with your crushed look, eyes finally raising to meet his he ignores it, and slowly approaches, as if you were a wounded animal: and you might as well be with your glossy eyes and red cheeks, you look so small: his usually tough girl tiny by comparison.

“What’s wrong, honey? He asks when he finally gets to you, lowering himself to be eye level with you, “What happened, huh?” His head is turning like a confused puppy, looking at you with so much worry and affection you can’t help but cry more. You cry because he’s home and you missed him, you cry because the house is a mess and you promised you’d clean up, but most of all you cry because he’s being dumb and it’s obvious why you’re upset (or so you think).

“I—I don’t know, just my heart hurts for them you know?” Your voice is scratchy, showing him that you really must have been breaking down for quite a while. He wonders who you’re talking about, if he’s forgetting something about one of your friends or wasn’t listening when you told him something important, but nothing comes to mind.

“Who, baby? Who’s hurting?” At his confusion all you feel is annoyance, it’s obvious whose hurting, it would be right in front of his face if he just looked.

“Them! Hyuck look at the TV! this is so sad, they’re just so in love, but they can’t be.” And he does look, but all he sees is Enchanted playing on the television. Combined with your sobs is the soft playing of ‘So close’ as Giselle and Robert dance around the ballroom—and suddenly everything begins to make sense.

From the very beginning of your relationship, every time you’ve gotten your period you’ve been drawn to Enchanted like a moth to a flame. Needing to watch the love story and cry your eyes out, as he has to unfortunately watch. He can’t count how many times you’ve sadly announced it’s your time of the month and then promptly turned on the movie.

While he could be annoyed or bitter at the constant playing of sing-alongs, all he feels is endeared, so he quickly cuddles into your shaking figure. Hugging you with both arms and legs like a koala, hoping that his affection will somehow cure your blues. He gives you a series of wet kisses, laughing and cooing at how sweet you are to be a grown girl and still crying at Disney films.

“Oh, my baby, why didn’t you call me earlier? I would’ve come home to you.” And you know he’s telling the truth, if he had even a whiff of you being sad and alone and hurting, he would’ve rushed back with ice cream and flowers galore. He knows millions of people go through this every month, but he can’t stomach the thought of his Honey in pain—all alone with nothing and nobody but Disney plus to comfort you.

“I didn’t want to bother you, you’re so busy and I can watch this all by myself.” You’re putting on a front, looking bravely at him even as the tears flow freely from your eyes. Inside, you know that half the reason you’re crying is because you missed him. Usually, he’d be there to sit with you, laughing and cuddling you at all the right times, and if you were lucky and he was in a good mood he’d sing along to the music like a lullaby.

However, you understand he is a busy boy—his schedule filled up with several commitments that he can’t just walk out on, even if he would. There’s too many people relying on him, and you can’t call him every time your tummy hurts, and your hormones go crazy (even if the hurt feels like a knife repeatedly stabbing you all over your lower body and then laughing at you).

“My silly silly girl, I’m never too busy for you. I know I can’t do much but I’m sure cuddling you and remembering to bring you your pain killers is enough, right?” and it is. There’s something so lovely about him, even if it’s the bare minimum. Your boyfriend never shies away from these conversations, he thinks it’s important that he knows and appreciates everything about you. Even if he can’t fully understand—especially if he can’t understand.

Donghyuck’s love language is really just being obsessed with you, knowing the ins and outs of your everyday life, and loving you more for it. As he sits with you now, he can see fully what he missed before—the telltale signs of your period running its course—the pinch in your forehead and the deep eyebags, and parts of him do feel ashamed he’s only now picking up on it.

“I’m sorry your body and your heart hurts, my honey bear, let’s start the movie over and take a nap, huh? How does that sound?” and even though your nose scrunches at his cheesy nickname, and you know the movie will just make you cry again—you look at him and agree.

He's wrapped around you, and he smiles, hoping your body will benefit from his body heat pressing into yours, smacking kisses all over your face until you’re laughing, and his gentle pecks begin to miss. And you know He’ll hold you tight all day, warming you up from the inside. He’ll tell you he loves you; he’ll tell you over and over again if it helps the pain wash away. And you know if you ask to watch Enchanted again, he’ll put it on with no complaints and sing along with you.

© luvtak

#haechan x reader #nct #nct 127 #nct dream #nct drabbles #nct u #haechan fluff #lee haechan x reader #haechan x you #haechan x y/n #lee donghyuck #nct donghyuck #nct haechan #nct soft thoughts #nct x reader #nct 127 x reader #nct dream x reader #nct dream fluff #nct 127 fluff #✧ drabble

[lilyginnyblackv2]

T&B Clothes and Style Analysis:

This all started when I was thinking of a way to try and get a better gauge on Ryan’s age, but then it started to kind of become it’s own thing. Basically, something I’ve noticed is how aspects of many (though not all) the character designs are indictive of the decade they grew up in.

Let’s start with the oldest of our heroes (I’m limiting it to heroes so this post won’t be any more massive than I’m sure it will already be).

Kotetsu and Antonio: We know that they are both 38 in S2, so that means they were born in 1942. So their childhood and teen years were the 1940s and 1950s, and you can see the influence of those time periods on their outfits.

Back in the 1940s and 1950s cowboy inspired fashion was very popular. My grandfather had a bit of this style too, and he was born sometime in the 1930s. Of course, Antonio’s outfit is also meant to reflect his NEXT persona as well, being Rock Bison and having, iirc, a meat sponsor.

Meanwhile, Kotetsu has that snazzy look about him. Clean cut, button up shirt, tie, sleek and ironed pants,  button up vest - his look is, in a way, rather hip in comparison to Antonio’s look. I also feel is has more of an upscale, blue collar vibe to it than Antonio’s, which style originated with blue collar, “working on the farm,” and legit cowboy types. Of course, Kotetsu doesn’t hold himself in that way, though I do think that his outfit is what adds to the moe gap and charm of Kotetsu. He has this put together appearance to him, but his life is a mess and he can be very immature at times, lol.

(This post is SUPER long and image heavy, so the rest is under a Read More!)

Next, let’s take a look at our newest heroes, since the 1980s influence on their style is obvious. All three of them are teens, so it would make sense that their fashion style and sense would reflect the 80s the most.

Subaru’s is, imo, the easiest to draw a link to in regards to possible inspiration. The outfits aren’t an exact match, but that puffy life preserver like jacket + jean pants combo just screams Marty McFly. I know he is also meant to reflect the “Red Ranger” trope found in series like Super Sentai and stuff like that, but I also think that Subaru’s problems with being looked down on and such is similiar to Marty’s with his issues surrounding being called chicken and what not. They can both be impulsive and quick to anger in that regard.

Lara has a school uniform on or, at least, an outfit inspired by one. Obviously, there are some liberties taken with the design, certain elements to make it cuter and more in-line with how school uniforms are often depicted in anime. The blazer top is really what gives it the 1980s Japanese school uniform vibe though. And since Lara is meant to represent magical girls, it makes sense that she would be wearing a school uniform.

Thomas has the most..anime-like outfit of everyone, imo. His outfit isn’t something you would someone wearing just every day, ya know. I tried looking a bit into high fashion/runaway fashion and the like, but didn’t get very far with that. I think the aspects of his outfit that have some basis in the 1980s though is the combo of “very shiny leather jacket” + tight jean combo like we see MJ wearing in his Thriller MV. 

Okay, so now let’s take a look at characters that we know the exact age of, or have a very good, general idea of how old they are. First up here is Barnaby.

Listen, Barnaby’s outfit really doesn’t have much going on in the way of 60s or 70s fashion (the eras when he was a teen), but his hair absolutely does! Without a doubt, the inspiration for Barnaby’s hair was Farrah Fawcett and her hairstyle became popular in the 1970s, when Barnaby would have been in his late teens and early 20s. He had more of a general shaggy hairstyle in the few flashbacks we see of him as a younger teen.

This chunky gold chain is also very 70s. 

Now we are more in the “we have a general idea how old they are range, and it was confirmed via outside sources.” The one that I feel most concretely on this is Karina, who is 19 in S2. That means she was born in 1961 (one year earlier than my parents, lol) and her childhood was in the 1960s and her teen years were pretty solidly in the 1970s outside of 19.

Whenever I think of Karina’s dress in S1, I my mind just always goes to the kinds of short dresses that were really popular in the Brady Bunch era. Other elements of her design are definitely different, but that dress is such a key aspect. Her S2 design feels more mature and like Mary Tyler Moore-esque.

Ivan, I believe, is 21 in S2. I think it was confirmed, somewhere, that he was 18 in S1. So he is only a little bit older than Karina and his teen years were the 1970s, period. Design-wise Ivan is a complete fish out of water. At least Barnaby had the hair and jewelry tying him to the 60s and 70s. But Ivan is meant to be a Weeaboo, so that whole idea and concept is far later, and his visual appearance reflects that.

However! Edward Said’s book Orientalism, which goes on to describe the term as:

the exaggeration of difference, the presumption of Western superiority, and the application of clichéd analytical models for perceiving the "Oriental world". This intellectual tradition is the background for Said's presentation of Orientalism as a European viewpoint reflecting a contrived Manichean duality.

(Source: The Wikipedia on Orientalism)

And that fits in with Ivan’s Weeaboo persona quite well. It’s a critical concept that is well known today (and which has a long standing documentation of existing before Said’s book was publish), but was only brought into the spotlight with this book in 1978. 

Edit: Check out my reblog where I have more information on how Ivan’s outfit actually connects back to the time period.

The last character that we have a general idea of around about what age they are is Pao-lin. She was 13 or so in S1 and around 16 in S2.

The major inspiration for her outfit is obviously Kill Bill, lol. Especially with the martial arts and everything. But, of course, her S1 outfit also takes inspiration from jumpsuits that really gained popularity in the 1970s and tracksuits too. Her later outfits in The Rising and S2 are more masculine presenting and have her wearing tank tops and hoodies, both of which started becoming more commonplace as everyday wear in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. (This could also apply to Ivan, who is wearing a black tank top under his jacket.

Finally, we get into the characters whose ages are vague: Ryan, Nathan, and Keith. Now, Ryan is younger than Barnaby. That’s basically all we have to go off of really, but in The Beginning we can see that he looks in his late teens (he has a slimmer face similar to Thomas and Subaru).

His outfit there also has a very 70s disco vibe about it. Though the hair and other aspects of it are also a bit late 90s/early 2000s in feel too. His earlier designs were quite 60s and 70s inspired too:

The one in the top left almost feeling New Wave / Hippie-ish to some extent (a part of me would have loved if they went with that design, but I love his current design too). His outfit in The Rising (and S2, which I won’t even bother talking about here) are a bit more:  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ design-wise.

The closest stuff I could find were like sports jerseys/sport shirts from the 70s and those shorts pictured, lmao. Those shorts are a bit shorter than Ryan’s, and they don’t have the more visually appealing hanging material, etc. But they do show how there were these sort of long shorts/pants in that era as well. Though, visually, Ryan still fits more in the 2000s era here. I started this whole research and post hoping that some of Ryan’s outfit could give more insight into his age...but nope, lol.

More info on Ryan’s outfit! :D

Anyway, our final two are Nathan and Keith. Nathan has made statements that make it seem that she is older than Barnaby and Keith, but likely not quite as old as Kotetsu and Antonio. I’ve always assumed that Nathan was in their 30s. Placing their teen years closer to the late 50s and 60s. 

And while a lot of Nathan’s outfits can just be simplified to the idea of being flamboyant, I feel a lot of Nathan’s presence and the air about them is very similar to the Ballroom Scene of the 60s:

While the outfits are not one-for-one matches, there are similarities in posing, feathers, mesh, color choices, and just the outlines that are created. I will say that the shoulder pads in Nathan’s S1 outfit are far more 80s though, lol.

Edit: I realized I forgot to explain what the Ballroom Scene even is and how it relates very specifically to Nathan’s gender identity. From the Wikipedia page:

The Ballroom Scene is an African-American and Latino underground LGBTQ+ subculture that originated in New York City. Beginning in the late 20th century, Black and Latino drag queens began to organize their own pageants in opposition to racism experienced in established drag queen pageants. [...] While the initial establishment of Ballroom mimicked these drag queen pageants, the inclusion of gay men and trans women would transform the Ballroom scene into what it is today: a multitude of categories that all LGBTQ+ people can participate in.

There is a fantastic documentary on this whole subculture and scene called Paris is Burning (link is to the YT video of the full documentary). I watched it back in college in my Queer Studies class. It’s very enlightening and insightful, but it does deal with some heavy topics (SA, suicide, etc.). I definitely suggest giving it a watch if you can though! 

Edit: Some more excellent information on Nathan's and Pao-lin's styles. Pao-lin's connection to Bruce Lee and Nathan's fashion connection to the 1970s glam era + visual kei (his The Rising outfit).

FINALLY! We have Keith. His age is completely unknown. I’ve always felt that he was closer in age to Barnaby than Kotetsu and Antonio. His outfit really doesn’t tell us much. It’s a very “All-American, Hard Worker” guys kinda outfit. Definitely something you would find in the 70s (image pictured above is from the 70s) and 80s, though his pants are more 80s-like than 70s (more straight than flared). 

(Though, looking at that above image, it seems like Barnaby’s big belt is also very 70s-ish!).

Anyway, I feel I can’t talk about Keith and his appearance and style without also mentioning this: 

Keith looks like Tom Cruise, and once you see and know that, you cannot unsee it either, lmao.

Okay, okay, let’s wrap this up! I’m going to be including sources and references for the clothes images and that’s basically it. If you have anything else to add, please do, and thank you to anyone who has read all the way to the end! It’s greatly appreciated and I hope you enjoyed reading this! <3 

Sources:

Antonio’s: blue17 and Vintage Dancer

Kotetsu’s: Vintage-Retro

Lara’s: qph.cf2.quoracdn . net

Pao-lin’s: Plaidstallions

Nathan’s: Esquire

Ryan’s: Vintage Vixen and Bored Panda, Dress That Man and The Empire Tribe

#T&B #Kotetsu T. Kaburagi #Barnaby Brooks Jr. #Taibani #tiger & bunny #T&B 2 #taibani 2 #tnb #tnb 2 #tiger & bunny 2 #tiger and bunny #tiger and bunny 2 #Nathan Seymour #Pao-lin Huang #Ryan Goldsmith #Karina Lyle #Keith Goodman #Antonio #Lara #Subaru #Thomas #Ivan #clothes #fashion #meta #long post #image heavy post

[666writingcafe]

Art Final (NSFW)

Partially inspired by this piece: 子猫 on Tumblr (For Your Eyes Only)

Introduction

Art class was never MC's strong suit. They passed the human world version of the class just fine, but they were never good enough to feature in any school art galleries. So, when they were allowed the opportunity to choose electives at RAD, they dismissed the idea of taking an art class immediately.

Imagine MC's surprise when the most experienced art teacher--the one that is a professional Devildom artist in his own right--reaches out to them to help him conduct his final exam. The request was simple: model for the student as they recreate their form on the canvas.

It wasn't until the first day of the two-week long exam period that MC realized that they would be posing nude and that all of the adults they've grown close to during their stay at the Devildom were in this particular class. At least it was a one-on-one session, and MC's all for trying new things.

"Each of you will have one day to create your masterpiece," the professor tells the class. "Your model is in the next room." He gestures at the closed door to the right of him. "Your time starts as soon as you enter the room, so I suggest you come up with your composition idea while you wait for your turn. With that in mind, first up is..."

____________________

Levi

It takes him about 20 minutes to come to terms with the fact that he has to paint a nude MC. He doesn't even enter the room at first; instead, he opens the door, peeks in, and slams it shut again. Eventually, however, he's able to compose himself long enough to be in the same room as MC.

The idea of the composition comes from MC. You see, there's several boxes of props in the room, along with lots of furniture. One of the many items is a very ornate version of a pirate captain's hat. So, MC suggests to Levi that they can pose on one of the couches while wearing the hat and pretending to eat grapes.

Levi gets a B for his efforts.

____________________

Barbatos

The only reason why the butler is even in this art class is so that he can keep an eye on Diavolo. Throughout the term, the professor has praised his technical skills, but notes that his pieces lack emotion.

Barbatos' final piece, however, has the opposite problem. One glimpse of his work reveals raw, unfiltered emotions, but the piece itself is quite messy and nearly incoherent. Some of that is because he just starts working the moment he gets settled in the room instead of directing MC to pose for him. In fact, he doesn't say a word to them at all, which is quite uncharacteristic of the butler.

The professor gives him an A.

____________________

Diavolo

The Demon Prince has a clear idea of what he wants to do with MC as soon as he sees them: imagine them as royalty. It takes some time to come up with everything he needs, but eventually he finds a throne chair, a crown, a staff, and an animal pelt.

Unfortunately for Diavolo, he keeps getting distracted by sexual daydreams, and he barely finishes the painting on time. If it weren't for the fact that MC had to hold their pose, they would have slapped Diavolo across the face to get him to focus on his project instead of their body.

Final grade: a C.

____________________

Belphie

The youngest demon brother thinks outside of the box. Instead of using a blank canvas to depict MC, he decides to use MC as the actual canvas itself. Thankfully, there's plenty of body paint in the art room, so Belphie is able to execute his idea.

Staying above the waistline, Belphie depicts the night sky on MC's body. He enjoys the process, since he's combining two of his favorite things into one product. There's a lot of blues and purples in the piece. As for his behavior, he's quite professional, asking MC if they are alright throughout the day.

Final grade: an A.

____________________

Mammon

The Avatar of Greed is one of the students that fails to turn in anything, so he automatically fails the final. His reaction is similar to Levi's, except that he never goes back in the room and instead walks out of the classroom. Even when the professor tells him that he'll fail the class if he doesn't complete this final, Mammon refuses to do it. Why? The world may never know.

____________________

Lucifer

Lucifer's work can get quite dark, and this particular piece is perhaps his most twisted. Of course, being the gentleman that he is, he discusses the idea to MC to make sure that they're comfortable with his vision, and MC is on board.

Essentially, in Lucifer's final piece for this class, MC is a bloodthirsty demon. Bodies are all around them, and MC laughs with glee, their body covered with blood. Don't worry, though: no one was harmed in the production of the painting. Once Lucifer is satisfied with MC's pose, he's able to create the rest of his piece entirely from his imagination.

Lucifer gets a B, but the professor tells him that he wants to display the piece at his next art showing.

____________________

Satan

To put it simply, Satan turns MC into a cat. Think Cats.

Does more need to be said? I don't think so.

Satan gets a C-.

____________________

Solomon

Surprisingly, Solomon's piece is the most straightforward out of everyone's. He doesn't try to turn MC into something else; he simply paints them as they are.

Everyone's a bit disappointed, for Solomon's work is usually pretty out there, and the professor was lowkey expecting something abstract from him.

Because of this, but also because there's technically nothing wrong with the piece, Solomon receives a B.

____________________

Beel

The Avatar of Gluttony is another student that fails to turn anything in. Believe him, he wants to complete the project. He's not trying to be insubordinate. He simply cannot think of anything. He could have gotten away with it if he had simply told the professor that he felt like MC was too beautiful to replicate on a canvas, because at least that would have gotten him a D, but the problem with Beel is that he's way too honest.

____________________

Simeon

Simeon depicts MC as an angel, which sounds sweet at first. However, Simeon doesn't go for the innocent version that everyone's used to. Instead, he goes the biblical route, and the final result is a bit disturbing (as biblically accurate angels tend to be).

He gets an A because this piece goes the opposite direction of all of his other work.

____________________

Asmo

The Avatar of Lust is the third student to not produce anything for the final. You see, Asmo has the opposite problem that Beel had: he has too many ideas, and he cannot decide which one to execute. MC tries to help him, but their words only seem to make Asmo more indecisive.

#obey me shall we date #obey me lucifer #obey me mammon #obey me leviathan #obey me levi #obey me satan #obey me asmo #obey me asmodeus #obey me beel #obey me beelzebub #obey me belphegor #obey me belphie #obey me simeon #obey me solomon #obey me lord diavolo #obey me diavolo #obey me barbatos

[thealmightyemprex]

Sci FI Month:Why X Men the Animated series is awesome

So I binged the entierty of X Men the Animated Series and I intended to make an epic review with episode reccomendations,annnnnd it ended up too long ,so instead I am going to go over reasons why this show is Great and has an enduring legacy

1.X Men in general as a franchise has tons of characters to choose from and I think it is so wise of the show that they limit it to 9 core characters,while some fan favorites get really good guest appearences like Nightcrawler

2.The Characterization and relationships are top notch ,every character gets a spot light and each character has layers ,with each character having their own demons.Even Professor X who couldve just been the mentor figure gets fleshed out to where you understand why he does what he does .Oh if you wanna know who my fave characters are:Storm,Wolverine ,Gambit, and Beast

3.The villains are varied ,from the anti villainous Magneto ,to the brutish Juggernaut ,to the bigoted Graydon Creed ,to the sadistic Sabretooth,to the complicated Mystique ,to the cold Mr Sinister to (My favorite ) the bombastic Apoclaypse

4.As a comic adaptation I think its fun that the show doesnt limit itself to one period of X Men but pays tribute to 30 years of comics:The designs are Jim Lee inspired,they pay tribute to Lee and Kirby,the stories pull a lot from Chris Clairmount ,and several episodes were written by comic legend Len Wein

5.The show doesnt have the biggest budget but with its shading ,strong character designs and editing it still holds up rather decently

6.Voice acting is all around solid,Cal Dodd,Lenore Zahn,George Buza and John Colicos are the go to voices for Wolverine,Rogue,Beast and Apocalypse to me

7.The series is serialized with a conitinuity,which while common with modern cartoons,was kind of a new thing back then.We can thank this show for changing how action cartoons were done.Also each season has a distinct feel with the first three having story arcs(The Sentinels in season one,Magneto and Xavier trapped in the Savage Land in season 2 , andDealing with the aliens known as the Shiar Empire in season 3 )

8.The writing does not talk down to kids,in fact the writing for the show is very good not shying away from the fact this is a show about prejudice

9.I think the show has good momentum getting better and better up to Season 4 ,which is the best season of the show .Now Season 5 does feel like it is running on fumes,but it still has great episodes and contiains one of the greatest animated series finales ever "Graduation Day "

10.And of course.....The theme song is kickass

If you want me to explain my feelings more just ask me,I am more then willing to ramble about this amazing cartoon.I plan to do my top 10 favorite episodes,villains,and multi parters

@ariel-seagull-wings @the-blue-fairie @piterelizabethdevries

@amalthea9 @themousefromfantasyland @princesssarisa

@angelixgutz @theancientvaleofsoulmaking @filmcityworld1 @countesspetofi

#x men the animated series #Sci fi month #Youtube

[synergysilhouette]

Reimagining a Disney movie about a wishing star

I already made a remake of "Wish," but I did so trying to keep a lot of the story intact. However, in this post, I decided I wanted to take the bare bones of "Wish" (ie wishing on a Star and certain characters) and make my own story! This is my first time doing this, so lemme know what you think. (Note: I did make my own alteration by trying to fix what we got with "Wish" as well.)

Aesthetic

Overall I like the idea of the film being 2D or 3D instead of hybrid. To appease the nostalgic masses, I'll say my film is 2D, though I'm unsure on what period to take from; I loved the Roccoco-inspired animation of "Cinderella" as well as the gothic, High Middle Ages aesthetic of "Sleeping Beauty" (which was an inspiration for the film; sadly, it imitated poor box office success, too). Though in terms of 21st century animation, I'm not sure if there's anything more amazing than the Firebird Suite sequence from "Fantasia 2000."

Plot

"Every year in a magical kingdom, there is a phenomenon that occurs: the Skyfall, a benevolent occurrence where it appears that all the stars fall from the sky. When it happens, it's said that those who manage to catch the falling star will have their heart's desire granted. Long ago, a young man captured a star, and he asked for the power to grant other's wishes. While his wish was granted, his future--and the kingdom's future--descended into darkness, as the stars fell and never returned to the night sky, leaving it a dark void. Decades later, a young maiden makes a wish that defies all possibility, creating a light that leads to dark shadows that seek to extinguish all hope."

Characters

Protagonist--In my rewrite, I'd have our leading lady as a woman of Middle Eastern, Sub-Saharan African, or Romani heritage. I haven't settled on which, though for names I'd go with either Aaliyah or Nimue. She'd be a more mature and less adorkable lead, but still fun to be around, similar to Belle, Pocahontas, and Tiana. Given her role as the sorcerer's apprentice, I'd love a callback to Mickey's red, blue, and silver look. I'm thinking a red dress in a style similar to Aurora's peasant dress, as well as a headband like Jasmine's, only a sapphire blue with silver stars. She's trained as a sorcerer's apprentice since she was a child, with her family's support motivating her to embrace the mystical world in order to grow emotionally and psychologically. She grew up in a broken kingdom filled with corruption, selfishness, and greed. One of the few people who understand right from wrong (according to American society, anyway; I know such terms are subjective), she thinks of stories her grandfather told her about the stars, and how she wanted to see them--but even more than that, she wanted to wish on one to restore her kingdom to it's former glory. While working as a sorcerer's apprentice, she gains magic and tries to help others, but her innate talent attracts people who would seek to take advantage of her, wanting to use her in lieu of their shooting stars. When she summons a star into existence, she attempts to hide him in order to keep him from being destroyed.

The Sorcerer--Known as Orchus, he was originally a kind young man who existed in earlier days of the kingdom. A gifted magician, he managed to catch a star, and seeing how this was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, he wished to be able to catch more stars. His wish was selfless at first, but when he began giving wishes to others, they began to task him with doing it themselves, not bothering to work to capture them themselves, and coming up with the most mundane wishes. After a time, the townsfolk turn greedy, and one person wishes for the stars to fall every night. For a decade or so, stars rain down, to the point where even the royal family succumbs to it's charm, making wishes for grand(er) things. This earns the envy of the common people, who wish to be grander than the king and his family. This creates a war of wishes, which only Orchus manages to quell. By the end of it, all the stars in the sky have been eradicated from the sky, leaving only the moon and the sun, and the kingdom is in pieces. Orchus has become a powerful sorcerer who controls the kingdom, using the royals as the face of it, rebuilding the kingdom as a illustrious-looking location, but seeping with criminal activity and corruption. He believes this is the natural order of things: if people have wishes, they don't ask, but take what they want, and he fixes anything that gets too out of hand. He takes the protagonist under his wings in order to make a successor who can control the kingdom when he's gone, knowing that a rebellion with break out if there's no one to keep the relative "peace." When the protagonist accidentally summons a star, Orchus seeks to destroy it, believing that the world is better off without them--perhaps one day, no one will wish for anything. As you can see, Xehanort from "Kingdom Hearts" was my inspiration.

The star prince--Let's name him Orion, and he's not a literal prince; it's just a nickname. Originally I had him planned as being innocent and sweet, similar to Hercules, but I do like the idea of him being a bit feisty, essentially a male version of Jasmine. I'm not sure what his race would be, but I would want a fantasy outfit like Prince Ryoma's supreme samurai look from "Fire Emblem Heroes," as well as perhaps taking fashion aspect from Prince Florian and a physical appearance similar to Li Shang and Aladdin. His voice is ethereal and while kind, he isn't afraid to assert his power if need be. Originally I imagined a youthful, slimmer build, but perhaps a more mature, muscular build similar to Shang and Captain Phoebus would be more appropriate. I'd imagine he dresses in very colorful, moving clothes, perhaps with nature motifs, depending on the situation. A scorpion motif (given his name) would be a nice mainstay to his looks. (I swear, I keep imagining an Inuyasha inspiration for some reason.) He's nonbinary since he's a shapeshifter, but most of the time takes a masculine form and goes by he/him pronouns (but I'd think he'd answer to other ones as well). He attempts to help others, but his powers quickly attract the attention of Orchus, who believes his presence will only cause trouble. As he continues to (sometimes unintentionally) grant the wishes of others, the environment begins to grow malevolent, with the weather and waves antagonizing the kingdom. It soon becomes apparent that the frequent wish granting affects the balance of nature, creating more corruption within the city and destruction that even Orchus cannot repair. As such, Orchus demonizes him as a malevolent being who is keeping stars from the people. It's noted throughout the film that there are other, albeit less powerful ways, of people making wishes besides shooting stars, ie a wishing well.

Protagonist's family and friends--I'm kinda iffy on how many people there are in the film so they can all get proper attention and development. I'd like to say both of the protagonist's parents are alive: her mother is like a mix of Gothel and Lady Tremaine, but with good intentions (she's vain, greedy, and a social climber, but deep down she does care about her family, even if she's frequently selfish), and her father is emotionally detached and critical of many of her decisions, being particularly hard on her due to her prestigious position as a sorcerer's apprentice. She has two brothers (I was gonna do sisters too, but no Disney princess has brothers): a younger one who is quite intelligent and crafty, already pessimistic of life and believes you have to lie, cheat, and steal to get anywhere in life, and an older brother who is super naive, easily taken advantage of and must be protected. The family pressures her to let Orion grant their wishes, but they keep wanting more, despite the protagonist's warnings about arousing suspicion. (As you may have noticed, I didn't give them names since I never settled on our protagonist's name/race.)

As for her friends, I'd like to think she has an excitable female friend (similar to Lottie from TPATF) as well as a weary, cautious friend (similar to Nakoma from "Pocahontas"). While her excitable friend is similar to the protagonist's older brother and wants to help those in need, her cautious friend is more concerned with keeping the peace and staying out of trouble. I wanted them to be on two ends of the spectrum in order to show our protagonist two perspectives when facing trouble: trying to get by and trying to help. I don't want there to be a distinct "right/wrong" message with them.

The King and Queen--They would've made kind rulers, but they grew up during the Corruption of the Sky, so they're not the rulers they should be; the king is passive and easily controlled and manipulated, while the queen is insecure and temperamental. They barely get along with each other, but one thing that did seem to quell them was the desire for a child. While they genuinely want children, their corruption makes them paranoid about the future of the throne, and thus a child is as much a need as it is a want.

Music

The Anderson-Lopez team or Lin-Manuel Miranda should've done the music for "Wish" and I guess I'll die on that hill. IDK how they would've approached it, but that's just my dream. However, since pop artist Julia Michaels wrote the music, I tried to take inspiration from radio and alternative music and manifest a unique sound for the album. And I'll probably edit this since I don't fully have the plot written out yet, and I suck at song titles.

Stars--Somewhat of a long song, I imagine a gentle beginning, followed by a glorious middle section, before a haunting end. It serves as the prologue for why the sky has no stars. For musical inspiration, I'd say and Utada Hikaru's "Sanctuary" would be the inspiration.

In the Air--In this song, the protagonist sings about her potential to be the next royal magician, and how she considers the idea of becoming a royal advisor. Her family sings this with her to boost her confidence, and Orchus chimes in to hype her up before dousing her confidence. I'd probably take "Colors of the Wind" as an inspiration here.

Your Eyes--A long song between our protagonist and Orion, in which Orion tells her that she should strive to understand other people's perspectives and beliefs, even if she doesn't agree with them, since it'll make her someone the kingdom will look up to. I imagine it as a soft song at first, I imagine it goes full power ballad by the end, kinda like a cross between "You're You" (a deleted song from "Frozen") and "Let it Go."

Royal Favorite--In order to get the protagonist more on his side, Orchus attempts to manipulate her by encouraging her to tell him about the star (which she hasn't, but he has his suspicions). He does so by having the king and queen convince her that everything is fine in the kingdom, and that she should focus on using her magic to give them a child (which would keep her distracted). I imagine this as a guilt/gaslight song that masquerades itself a bubbly and cozy; Gwen Stefani's "This is What the Truth Feels Like" album (specifically "You're My Favorite" and "Loveable") as my inspiration.

Nightfall--I'm thinking it starts off slow and quiet, creeping and making the hair on the back of your neck stand up as Orchus sings calmly as he uses begins to kill those who oppose him, having managed to kill Orion. Honestly I keep thinking "Pray You Catch Me" with this for some reason.

Nobody--Our protagonist is imprisoned and forced to watch as her parents are abused by the townsfolk for standing against Orchus, with their newfound wealth and power being cast aside. She reflects on how she wanted to make a difference, and all that she's done is hurt everyone she's cared about, and Orchus reminds her that she needs to get in line. However, her friends manage to free her, and they tell her that it's good that she's nobody, since everyone says "Nobody will defeat Orchus."

Constellation--After defeating Orchus, his power explodes across the sky, creating a new generation of stars, albeit now they don't fall. Our protagonist reflects on how she misses Orion, but it's for the best, as she worries that he'd be taken advantage of again. During the journey, she reflects on how some wishes should never be granted, and how she believes that some of the people of the kingdom will eventually achieve their own wishes through their own efforts, not it'd take a while before anyone WANTS a wish granted, seeing all the trauma the kingdom's been through.

Lemme know that you think! This was fun! I may edit this a bit more with time. Don't get me wrong, I like my alternate takes, but maybe I'll do more original stories with the bare bones of Disney films. I'm already coming up with a "Frozen" concept!

#disney #disney animation #wish #magnifico #king magnifico #asha #disney princess #cinderella #sleeping beauty #fantasia #aurora #encanto #frozen

[fanficapologist]

Of Dragons and Maelstroms

Themes and Warnings: slow burn, enemies to lovers, blood, violence, explicit language, sexual violence, period-typical misogyny, sexual themes, smut, tension, marriage, jealousy, pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, attempted sexual assault, breastfeeding, major character death, divergent timelines

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the House of The Dragon/Fire & Blood/Game of Thrones characters nor do I claim to own them. I do not own any of the images used nor do I claim to own them.

Chapter Forty-Nine

Maera's carriage ride from the Red Keep to the Sept was a solitary journey with only her nerves and racing thoughts for company. As it moved through the bustling streets of King's Landing, Maera gazed out the window at the city's surroundings. She first set her gaze upon the procession of guards that marched alongside her carriage, led by Ser Arryk on his brown horse, who were ensuring her safe passage.

Peasants lined the streets, waving as she passed by, and the sound of their cheers and well-wishes filled the air. The hooves of the horses clattered against the cobbles, creating a rhythmic backdrop to the journey. Inside her carriage, Maera's excitement was palpable, but so was her nervousness. She couldn't help but fidget, struggling with her skirts in an attempt to find a comfortable position. She took deep breaths to steady herself, her nerves fluttering as the ceremony drew nearer.

Maera couldn't help but picture Aemond, imagining him standing near the High Septon, awaiting her arrival. In her mind, she saw his tall, lean figure, his regal presence, and his piercing violet eye that held so much power and mystery.

Amidst her musings, she couldn't help but wonder if Aemond was feeling any nerves before the ceremony. But she quickly dismissed the idea, convincing herself that the formidable One-Eyed Prince would not be affected by any such emotions. Instead, she was certain he was eagerly anticipating their upcoming intimacy, relishing the prospect of toying with her in a way she would undoubtedly enjoy. The thought brought a smile to her lips, momentarily easing her apprehension.

A reverberating bellow through the air interrupted her thoughts, as well as a sudden shadow eclipsed the sunlight, prompting Maera to glance out the window, her striking green eyes set on the skies. There, she caught sight of the majestic dragon Ēbrion, his dark blue and black scales glinting in the sunlight, and its incredible wingspan casting a grand silhouette against the sky. He soared above the carriage before beating his wings ferociously, peaking over the Sept in the distance before continuing onto the shoreline, where his lair awaited him.

The memory of that first breathtaking encounter with the dragon came to her mind, along with the connection she had felt with the dragon after she had shared her blood with him. Ever since that day on the beach, Maera had dreamt of Ēbrion and looked for him often outside her chamber window. His presence in the sky was awe-inspiring, and she couldn't help but wonder about the significance of his appearance on her wedding day. She couldn't help but wonder if the dragon somehow knew where she was headed and wanted to offer her a reassuring sign.

Throughout her life, Maera had cared for various animals at Rain House, from horses and hounds to the cats that roamed the grounds. But what she felt for Ēbrion was different. It was a connection that went beyond mere care; it was a powerful, peculiar feeling. Between the gasps and admirations of the peasants below, who clapped and cheered at the sight of the magnificent beast, Maera couldn't help but feel a surge of awe herself, realizing the power and grandeur that these creatures, much like House Targaryen, commanded in the hearts of the people.

After a while, the carriage came to a halt, the sound of the horse shoes on the paved road ceasing. The carriage door was opened by Ser Arryk, revealing their arrival at the Sept. In Maera’s mind, the journey appeared to be too long and too short at the same time. Her loyal protector courteously extended his arm towards her, offering his support to get out of the carriage, to which she took with a grateful smile.

Maera continued to grasp the Kingsguard’s arm as they ascended the many steps leading to the grand entrance of the Sept, her magnificent wedding dress flowing elegantly behind her.

"You look stunning, my Lady," Ser Arryk remarked, wearing a steadfast and protective expression, his hazel eyes watchful and reassuring. Maera, appreciative of his presence, couldn't help but convey her gratitude through a warm smile, accompanied by a nod of her head, but but make a self-deprecating comment.

"I feel a little like a prized mare being sold to a stable hand,” she chuckled, gesturing to the elaborate dress she was wearing.

“Nonsense,” replied the knight in a dismissive manner. “You truly embody the nickname bestowed upon you, the Jewel of Rainwood." His words caused Maera to blush, feeling a warmth in her cheeks and a thankful smile gracing her face.

Reaching to top of the many stone steps, Maera locked eyes with her father Lord Jasper, standing before the intimidating doors of the holy building. was adorned in a striking ensemble, with a turquoise tunic embellished with intricate golden embroidery, a testament to the House's colors. He wore deep black trousers that complemented the outfit splendidly, along with a turquoise cape that flowed gracefully and was fastened by a chain of gleaming gold.The Master of Laws’ distinguished appearance was further accentuated by his dark, well-kept hair and his keen, discerning green eyes, which exuded an air of authority and wisdom.

“You’re late,” the Lord commented, a slight smirk on his face, which Maera returned.

She responded quickly with a playful retort. "It's the one day in my life I can be fashionably late, Father." Lord Jasper chuckled, the tension in the air dissipating as they readied for the momentous ceremony.

Before entering the Sept, Maera was encircled by a group of Septas and Septons, their voices rising in melodic prayers and blessings to the Seven. They gathered around her, each invoking the Gods for guidance and protection for the bride on the momentous day. Lord Jasper took a step closer and with a tender yet ceremonial gesture, he attached his own turquoise cloak to her wedding dress.

With an air of solemnity and pride, he then extended his arm, offering it to Maera to link theirs together, signifying the solemn bond between father and daughter as they prepared to step into the sacred space of the Sept.

To fill the silence as they waited for the doors to open, Maera decided to commend Lord Jasper in a teasing manner. “I believe you should be congratulated once again, my Lord Father, for securing such a remarkable match for one of your children. Especially your most troublesome daughter.” Lord Jasper couldn't help but let out a silent chuckle, appreciating the jest.

Maera looked ahead at the doors, nerves beginning to bubble once more as she could hear the Septon inside leading the congregation in a prayer. She decided to be serious for a moment, taking a deep breath as she addressed her father.

“I know we have not always seen eye to eye. And you find the manner in which I live my life to be somewhat… questionable for a noble Lady. But after today, I will belong to House Targaryen,” She turned her head to gaze at her father, her eyes tracing the lines and contours of his aging face. “So, if you have any more wisdom to impart on me before my union, I suggest you speak it now, Father.”

To her surprise, instead of delivering a dutiful order or a half-patronizing speech about her responsibilities, Lord Jasper's eyes softened as he gazed at his daughter. His words carried a deep sense of affection and nostalgia. "You look just like your mother," he said tenderly, catching her off guard with a heartfelt sentiment.

A loud creaking noise seemed to startle both father and daughter as grand doors of the Sept swung open, revealing the hallowed interior of the seven-sided building. As the doors parted, Maera's gaze fell upon a scene of solemn beauty and grandeur.

The sacred space was filled with the nobility of King's Landing and courtiers from far and wide who had gathered to witness the union of Maera and Prince Aemond. The air was thick with a sense of anticipation and reverence. Sunlight streamed through the intricately detailed stained glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors onto the marble floors. The high vaulted ceiling seemed to touch the seven heavens, its arches adorned with the symbols of the Faith of the Seven.

Guests were neatly stood in rows on either side of the building, forming an aisle, their eyes focused on the bride as she entered the Sept. The soft murmur of conversations and the rustle of fine garments echoed within the hall.

On the few steps leading up to the platform where the High Septon stood were the prominent members of the royal family and the court. King Aegon, though visibly hungover, wore Targaryen attire with the Conqueror's crown resting on his disheveled hair. His presence, though somewhat disheveled, was still that of the ruling monarch. Beside him stood his dutiful sister-wife Queen Helaena, regal in a dress of olive green that covered her little bump, her silver hair braided atop her head, gazed with an air of dignified anticipation.

Their grandfather and Hand of the King, Lord Otto Hightower, stood with his customary poise and authority. The symbol of the beacon of Oldtown was embroidered on the chest of his green and gold garments and a golden chain across his shoulders indicated his high status. Finally was the Hand’s daughter and the King and Queen’s mother, Alicent, her deep green attire adorned with a dragon scale pattern. She presented herself with modesty and faithful dedication to the Seven, her auburn hair half up and half down as she stood with grace and poise.

At the centre of the chancel stood High Septon Eustace, resplendent in his richly embroidered robes. He radiated an aura of solemnity and holiness as he prepared to officiate the wedding ceremony, a central figure in the sacred rite.

Finally, Maera’s bright green eyes fell upon Prince Aemond, her breath catching in her throat. The Prince's presence was striking, and he stood to the left of the Septon, a commanding yet captivating air about him.

Aemond's attire was nothing short of regal. His robe, made of smooth satin, was as dark as the night, a deep black that emphasized the dragon's signature color. The grandeur of the robe was enhanced by the golden dragons embroidered on each breast and adorning the collar. A thick black leather belt cinched his waist, accentuating his lean and muscular frame, and he wore black trousers that complemented his boots, which shone knee-high in glossy black.

One of the most captivating aspects of his appearance was his hair. Though it retained most of its signature look, the top was carefully braided along his scalp before flowing freely down his back, adding to the elegance of the ensemble. The Prince’s demeanor was as cool and composed as usual, but as Maera observed, there was a subtle softness in his slightly widened eye, a reflection of the unique bond they shared. His strong, slender frame radiated confidence and authority, making him a powerful presence within the Sept, one that Maera found impossible to tear her eyes away from.

Lord Jasper led her down more steps before walking through the parted aisle of courtiers. Maera’s feelings were a mix of excitement, anticipation, and a touch of nervousness. The weight of the moment was not lost on her, as she made her way towards her intended. The gazes of the courtiers in the Sept were upon her, and as she proceeded, she received a sea of respectful nods, smiles, and quiet murmurs of admiration. Amongst the crowd, Maera spotted her stepmother, brothers and her sister. They waved eagerly at her, causing her heart to swell with relief and love for them.

Having escorted Maera to the front of the Sept, Lord Jasper granted his daughter a soft smile before leaving her side to join the rest of the gathered crowd. Maera turned to face Aemond, her emotions a whirlwind of nervousness and excitement. Her heart raced, and her green eyes locked onto his one violet eye. There was a subtle, reassuring smile on Aemond's lips as he looked at her, and the sight of him helped calm her nerves. He offered his hand and she took it eagerly, clutching on to it to steady herself before ascending more steps to face the High Septon, who awaited them between the statues of the Father and the Mother.

The High Septon’s voice resonated throughout the grand Sept as he addressed Aemond, instructing him, "You may now cloak the bride and bring her under your protection."

Maera obediently turned her back to him and felt the heavy weight of the cloak being placed over her shoulders. The black velvet with golden dragon embroidery was a symbol of their union, and it sent shivers down her spine. As Aemond's fingertips lingered on her shoulders, and his warm breath brushed against her neck, Maera felt a rush of anticipation. The physical contact, however brief, sent a thrill through her, intensifying her excitement for the ceremony and the night that would follow.

With the bride cloaked, the Septon proceeded to address the entire assembly. He began by acknowledging the presence of House Targaryen, extending his reverence to the King, Queen, Queen Mother and Lord Hand. Then he shifted his focus to the courtiers, declaring, "My lords, my ladies, we stand here in the sight of gods and men to witness the union of man and wife. One flesh, one heart, one soul, now and forever."

The Septon, his voice resonating with solemnity, began leading the couple and the congregation in prayers, invoking the blessings of the Gods upon their union. Maera couldn't help but entertain a thought about the irony of a celibate Septon asking for fertility and fruitful marriage.

In the midst of the ceremony, Maera stole a quick glance at Aemond, finding him already looking at her. The slight blush that tinted her cheeks revealed the fluttering excitement and emotion within. She noticed a mischievous smirk gracing Aemond's face, and the shared moment between them felt like a glimpse into the beginning of their shared journey.

Septon Eustace, after the prayers, produced a golden silk ribbon, a symbol of unity and connection. With a graceful motion, he tied the fabric into a secure knot around the hands of Aemond and Maera. Their hands entwined, bound together by the delicate ribbon, signifying their union.

As the ribbon was unraveled by the Septon, the grand moment arrived when he directed them, "Look upon each other and say the words." The eyes of the betrothed couple met, and the profound weight of their vows and commitments settled in. The couple’s breathing became synced as they gazed upon each other before uttering the vows simultaneously to each other, that so many had said before them.

"Father, Smith, Warrior, Mother, Maiden, Crone, Stranger..."

"I am hers…”

"I am his…”

“and she is mine.”

“and he is mine.”

“From this day…”

“…until the end of my days."

With the vows exchanged, the moment arrived for the couple to seal their union with a kiss. Maera watched intently as Aemond leaned in, feeling a rush of butterflies flutter in her stomach. It was a pivotal moment in their relationship, unlike any other they had shared.

As their lips met, the kiss was soft and chaste, a marked contrast to the fiery and passionate encounters they had experienced before. Their lips moved together in a gentle and tender connection, causing Maera's emotions to swirl within her—a combination of excitement, vulnerability, and the beginning of a new chapter.

The kiss was over all too quickly, leaving Maera yearning for more. They joined hands, facing the congregation, and the assembled guests erupted into enthusiastic applause and cheering, celebrating the union of Prince Aemond and his wife, the new Princess of the Realm.

As soon as they could, Maera and Aemond exited the Sept, hand in hand, and moved with haste toward the awaiting carriage. Their footsteps were filled with purpose, and anticipation of the moments yet to come. Once inside the privacy of the carriage, with Aemond sitting opposite to Maera, the door closed behind them, and the horses began to pull them away from the Sept. Maera, feeling the tension and anticipation of the day finally receding, breathed a sigh of relief.

Aemond's observant eyes didn't miss it, and he couldn't help but ask, "Relieved, are we?"

She chuckled softly in response, the weight of the ceremony no longer bearing down on her. "Yes," she admitted, "I am glad it's over. Now the union is official."

A sly grin played on Aemond's lips, and he raised an eyebrow, his voice dripping with sinister allure. "Well," he said, leaning forward slightly, "The marriage is not valid in the eyes of the Realm or the Gods until it's...consummated."

Maera's nervous gulp didn't escape his notice. She could see the amusement dancing in his eyes, and she sensed his playful intentions, perhaps even an attempt to assert his dominance over her. Never one to back down from a challenge, Maera met Aemond's smirk with one of her own. She crossed her legs under her skirts, a smug expression taking hold. It was a battle of wills, and she was determined not to let him have the upper hand.

"You seem rather fixated on the consummation, my Prince,” Maera provocatively remarked, green eyes settling on the One-Eyed Prince. She couldn't help but smirk, her eyes sparkling with mischief, as she teased further, "I am surprised that you actually refrained from trying to sneak into my chambers before the today ."

Aemond let out a low, thoughtful hum, his jaw clenching slightly as he met her challenge. With a wicked smirk, he leaned in closer, whispering in a husky tone, "Time will tell who will give in first tonight." He couldn't resist the opportunity to tease her, his voice seductive and a hint of provocation as he added, "I have no doubt that you will be the one begging to be bedded."

Maera arched an eyebrow, her lips curving into a defiant smile. "We shall see about that."

Upon their return to the Red Keep for the wedding celebrations, Aemond and Maera entered a transformed hall, now adorned for the wedding reception. The room was filled with splendor, a breathtaking sight. Decorations of shimmering gold and black adorned the walls and ceilings, matching the Targaryen and Wylde colors. Torches and candles were lit, casting a warm and inviting glow.

At the front of the room, a magnificent top table was prepared for the bride and groom. It was adorned with intricate dragon-themed centerpieces, golden goblets, and fresh flowers. The chairs at the top table were especially ornate, fit for a prince and his bride. The feast laid out on the tables was a grand display of culinary delights. There were roasted meats, fresh fish, fruits, and various other dishes to tantalize the guests' taste buds. The tables were covered in sumptuous linens, and the settings gleamed with golden tableware.

The newlyweds sat at the top table, flanked by their respective families. As the speeches were made, the room was filled with laughter and joy. Prominent figureheads of their Houses shared amusing anecdotes, offered heartfelt congratulations, and raised their glasses in a toast to the happy couple. The words of wisdom, love, and support from friends and family brought smiles to the faces of Aemond and Maera.

Throughout the speeches, Aemond's hand rested on Maera's in her lap, a silent but reassuring presence. As the speeches concluded, the bride and groom were prompted to take part in the first dance as husband and wife. With smiles and grace, they rose from their seats, their hands entwined as the walked to the dance floor.

The dance commenced with a graceful bow and curtsy as the music began to play. As they moved together on the floor, their dance seemed to emulate dragons soaring through the skies. They held hands, their fingers entwined as they twirled and stepped in perfect sync, their movements fluid and harmonious.

Throughout the dance, Maera’s face bore a mix of excitement and contentment as she looked into Aemond's eye, her expression soft and tender. Aemond, too, looked regal and composed, but there was a gentleness in his demeanor as he danced with his bride. His eye held an intensity, but his lips curved into a genuine smile as they moved in unity across the dance floor. The room was filled with the joy of the moment, and all eyes were on the newlyweds as they continued their choreography, their elegance and grace captivating the onlookers.

As the dance came to a graceful conclusion, Maera curtsied with a flourish, and Aemond executed a deep bow to her. Their performance was met with thunderous applause and cheers from the delighted audience. Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, Maera glanced around the room, her eyes catching the attention of numerous attendees who vied for her recognition with respectful nods and raised glasses.

She turned to Aemond and said, "I think it is only proper that we go and greet our guests, do you not?"

Aemond hummed in agreement, and Maera playfully cocked her head, her voice laced with suggestion. "We will reconvene later, my Prince."

Aemond responded with a flirtatious grin, his tone equally suggestive. "Until then, Princess."

Notes: Ahhhh next chapter smut yall 😎

Tags: @blue-serendipity @watercolorskyy @manipulatixe @marvelescvpe @shesjustanothergeek @grungegrrrl

Thank you so much for reading! Comments, feedback, likes, and reblogs are greatly appreciated 🖤

#maera wylde #aemond fanfiction #aemond targaryen #aemond x oc #chapters #hotd aemond #hotd fanfic #hotd helaena #house targaryen #house wylde

[ivytea]

Hi, I enjoy your art a lot.

I used to make art but I've not been able to recently.

Is there anything that inspires you a lot? Or makes you feel the I want to draw/make this feeling?

Thank you in advance 🩷

hi! I was thinking over your message this week because this is something i struggle with a lot, so various media/things have worked at various times, but here are some things that have given me this feeling in the past: movies/tv: - kingdom of dreams and madness, song of the sea, from up on poppy hill, grand budapest hotel, phantom thread, the night is short walk on girl, urasawa naoki's manben books: invisible cities (italo calvino), piranesi (susanna clarke) underland (robert macfarlane). - skip & loafer, blue period, witch hat atelier - also various folklore and mythology collections other: visiting libraries or museums/digital collections online, keeping an eye out for unusual events/shows in your area, lectures/videos & interesting concepts (animals/architecture/culture, whatever), going on walks, & making cursed little crafts. - recently I got a little handheld microscope and while idk if it really counts as "inspo" it's been really special to be able to look at things up close, and makes you look at your everyday surroundings differently afterwards I just want to add that it's easy to be stuck in a cycle feeling so unhappy with yourself for being unable to make things like you used to. try not to worry too much, and pursue your interests without pressure of finding inspiration, the drive to create will follow. I hope you will encounter surprising and fun moments that fill you with joy!

#asks #anon #thank you for your message!! hope one of these can be a little helpful for you :^) #SORRY keep trotting out the same 4-5 movies sldkfjsldkfjslf #i just love media that can show you how strange and wonderful different interpretations of this world can be #if anyone has recommendations please feel free to suggest also!!! would love to find new things.......inspo hivemind

[agentnico]

Blue Eye Samurai - Season 1 (2023) Review

Don't think I've ever seen so much human genitalia in animated form all in one go. Makes me wonder if the production team had a designated animator of genitals who literally just spent his time drawing penises for the show. If so, I hope it was Jonah Hill as he already proved in Superbad that he is the perfect artist for this subject.

Plot: Driven by a dream of revenge against those who made her an outcast in Edo-period Japan, a young warrior cuts a bloody path toward her destiny.

Netflix consistently hashes out so much content every week, that it is hard to keep up with any of it, as such many great projects get missed and are forever lost in the streamer's endless library void. Luckily Blue Eye Samurai didn't pass my scrolling and evidently has its fan base, as this is one of the quickest examples of the streaming giant announcing a season renewal after release. Yep, Blue Eye Samurai will be getting a second season which is amazing as this is a superb new series that if you haven't yet discovered then you are doing yourself a disservice and should amend that behaviour immediately and go watch it! Still need persuading? Alright, sit yourself down and allow me to gush about Blue Eye Samurai!...

It’s hard to overstate just how stunning Blue Eye Samurai is to look at. The series uses a mix of 2D and 3D animation styles to create landscapes and characters who seem only a few degrees removed from live-action, even as the form allows for combat on a scale that would cost several large fortunes to craft with flesh-and-blood actors. In fact, looking at the behind-the-scenes the team hired an actual martial arts choreographer to support in creating the combat sequences in real life with real people, and then the movements of those fights were transferred to animation and used in the final product. In one episode (seemingly inspired by the 1978 martial arts film Enter the Game of Death where Bruce Lee had to fight his way up to the tower to get to the last floor) the main samurai Mizu must defeat multiple bosses on each level of the season's big bad Fowler’s impregnable fortress home, and each separate battle is a work of art in itself. Honestly, the show just looks like a moving painting, with every frame absolutely jaw-dropping gorgeous. Even without dialogue or characterization, it would be completely engrossing.

Luckily, writers Michael Green and Amber Noizumi are as interested in the people at the center of these crazy fights as they are in the many improbable techniques Mizu uses against her opponents. Mizu is presented throughout as both supernatural and deeply human. She can handle any odds, and come back from every injury that would cripple or kill a normal person. But the series never loses sight of what a life wholly devoted to revenge has cost her, and the ways in which she has turned herself into every bit the monster that her countrymen believe her to be.

It is then also the exploration of how Mizu interacts with the other characters in this world. There's the disabled would-be apprentice Ringo (played warmly by Masi Oka), who has learned to navigate life despite his lumbering size and lack of hands. Mizu has no interest in a sidekick, but Ringo gradually wears her down, as if he’s a peaceful stream flowing against a rock over hundreds of years. There's also Taigen (Darren Barnett), a warrior chasing after Mizu to collect a debt of honour, yet due to this honour he ends up helping her as in his eyes only he has the right to kill her, no one else, so ends up attacking those that attempt to harm her. Brenda Song voices the princess Akemi, who is just as eager to escape the bonds of Edo society as Mizu is, but who uses very different methods to achieve that. We follow her journey through an intimate tour of the area brothels, which is where the aforementioned heaviness of nudity comes in. There is, in fact, a lot of naked flesh on display throughout the season. The series can be just as graphic in depicting sex as it is in violence, yet both avoid feeling gratuitous. And finally, there's Kenneth Branagh as this season's big bad Fowler, a despicable arms dealer who has no sense of morality or empathy and is willing to destroy anything standing in his path. He's a massive presence and seemingly the only one able to hold himself in a fight against Mizu, hence why Branagh's British snark yet heavy tone fits perfectly here.

The whole thing is an incredible, utterly badass example of how animation can be used to create worlds, characters, and adventure every bit as vivid as live-action if not more at times. Even though I would say there are a few areas of pacing issues, which withheld me from binging this season all in one go and instead had me taking regular break intervals throughout, this is still a stellar show and one that you can tell was created by a team of passionate filmmakers and artists. Blue Eye Samurai would never have had the impact it did had it been live-action - using animation as its storytelling medium elevated it to a masterpiece in my opinion. Kudos to everyone involved in such an amazing project and I can’t WAIT to see more!

Overall score: 8/10

#blue eye samurai #mizu #adventure #thriller #action #animation #digital animation #2d animation #netflix #michael green #amber noizumi #maya erskine #masi oka #brenda song #george takei #randall park #kenneth branagh #darren barnet #2023 #blue eye samurai review #tv series #streaming #samurai #adult animation #history #drama #sword #blue eye samurai season 1 #martial arts

[mapoeggplant]

Hi......If you don't mind, can I ask, what are your top 10 (or top 7) favorite media (can be books/ manga/ anime/movies/tv series/video games)? Why do you love them? Sorry if you've answered this question before......Thanks....

whaaa that's such a fun question, thank you so much for asking!!!!!!

hmmm, since I'm a very terrible person with deciding things, would you mind if I give you top 5 mangas and top 5 books?? I feel like focusing on them, it will be easier for me and I'll be able to talk more about them!!

ok so in no particular order, here are my:

top 5 mangas

ikoku nikki, by tomoko yamashita

I think I fell in love with this manga the second I start to read. it's just incredibly well written, with beautiful characters that are well developed and well explored. yamashita is one of my favorite authors of all time, so I could go on and on about how much I love her writing.

it's a beautiful story about personal connections, grief and future!

shimanami tasogare, by yuuki kamatani

this story is a safe space for me. not only because I love the way it's written and the way it's developed, but it was a huge help for me in my process of self discovering and acceptance of my demissexuality. I will forever be grateful for what this story brought me and all the tears I shed reading it

skip to loafer, by misaki tamakatsu

I think it's already obvious that sukirofa would be on the list OIFJASOJF. I just think it's a gorgeous story that focus a lot on self discovery, growing up and platonic love. I absolute love the "I love you as a person" message that it evoques. I wish there was a story like this when I was a teenager...

haikyuu!!, by haruichi furudate

haikyuu have a deep, deep place in my heart and it's a story I will cary with me forever. it's one of the reasons why I came back to the internet to share thoughts and one of the reasons why I made so many beautiful friends, but also it changed me for the better and it was with me on difficult times. everyone should read it, tbh.

blue period, by tsubasa yamaguchi

one of the reasons why blue period is so important to me is because yatora is a character that resonates A LOT with me. reading it for the first time was like being punched on the face multiple times because I saw a lot of me on it and a lot of my struggles and self doubts. yatora will forever be a character that is extremely important to me.

bonus: "I want to be a wall", by honami shirono and "hibari no asa", by tomoko yamashita

top 5 books

the white book, by Han kang

han kang is one of my favorite authors. I absolute love her writing and, as a writer myself, she inspires me a lot. I find this book to be absolute gorgeous. never in my life I read something that talks about grief and loneliness such as this book. gorgeous, from beginning to end.

the bell jar, by sylvia plath

this book was very important for me growing up. I feel that I picked it up at the right moment of my life and it just stayed with me forever. the fig scene is something that I think about constantly and reflect a lot on it. I feel that I should reread it now that I'm way older.

meu desconhecimentos, by eliane brum

i'm so sorry to say, but I don't think this book was ever translated to english...but I would love to talk about it a little. it was first introduced to me by my therapist and it stayed with me since the moment I started reading it. I resonate a lot with eliane's trajectory with writing and she inspire me a lot too.

the unwomanly face of war, by svetlana alexievich

this book is non fictional and it covers the soviet women who fought on WWII. this book impacted me so much that I still remember vividly scenes from it. it's not an easy book to read and it's extremely graphic, but it definitely left a mark on me.

the good son, by you-jeong jeong 

I wouldn't say this book is one of my favorites of all time, but I doo catch myself recommending it A LOT, so it would be weird not to include here. it's a great, great narrative with a highly unreliable narrator that manages to convince you from beginning to end. it's not an easy read as well, since it's a very slow one and can be repetitive.

WELL!!! I think that's it?? idk I feel like every time someone asks me about my favorite something my mind goes blank OIFJASIOJF but I hope I was able to answer your question 💛 thank you for asking!!

#duckanswers #recommendations