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#amber’s is perfect are you kidding she’s the first one i made

skyeslittlecorner · 2 months

Note

Oh no, everyone has great ideas and you turn them into such amazing stories 🥹 Love family stuffs ahhhhh 😩

How about the kings and their kids prepare for Mother's day? 👀 The kids ask for advices and join their dads in prepare them (...and the king's gifts too... if you know what I mean 👀👌👈)

I love bringing your ideas to life! And I'm glad that you entrust them to me, you don't even know what an inspiration it is, that I can write for you, and you like it. Stay amazing as always 🙏

Family time, let's go!

꧁:･ ✡ ･:꧂

Satan and the twins had some trouble with their gift for you. They said they wanted to do it themselves, without dad, because it would be a surprise for both of you. Of course, he agreed, but he still ordered the nobles to keep an eye on them. First they went to Sitri and wanted to paint the cups, but they broke them. Then they approached Paimon to make you your own stickers, but after half an hour, glitter was everywhere. Before they accosted anyone else, Astaroth intervened. He took them to the meadow (so they could run around and shake off some glitter) and only when they got tired did he start telling them about how their father was a child, when they were picking wild flowers for bouquets for you.

Satan himself will give you a box of mint-blueberry chocolates, which you regularly carved at 3 a.m. during your pregnancy, and a smirk with the words "I'm ready for round two." Of course, he pissed you off with that. And since he also brought good wine, get ready for the next five rounds.

Mammon and your little gang will present you with a whole collection of jewelry. You expected them to be pasta necklaces and modeling clay earrings, but of course you underestimated them. Pearl necklace, ruby bracelets, cufflinks with gold beads. Of course, they are made a bit crooked and clumsy, the younger the child the more so, but you and Mammon look like the proudest parents in the world. This is the only jewelry you want to wear.

From the king you will receive a beautiful silk set (actually five sets, each matching one piece of jewelry you received), underwear and a long dressing gown, (and a matching dress, shoes and even a handbag), which you will have to try out together.

Beelzebub loves scribbles, and so does his little girl! The card you will receive will be the messiest, most colorful conglomeration of colored tissue paper, photos and ribbons you could ever imagine. Beel made sure that there was no shortage of materials, so in one place you have shells from the Caribbean, a heart made of Chinese silk and amber with a fossil (where did they get it from? Did he really take your daughter for a walk around the world? You don't ask, you don't want to know the answer).

Beel will give you markers with edible icing. He had a great time with the little one, but now it's time for mommy to show off her artistic talent. Preferably on his body. You can trace his tattoos with a marker, or maybe write something new. He's ready to be your canvas all night long.

Your daughter has Leviathan’s perfectionism, but in a specific version that when daddy likes something, it means it's already perfect. Usually. Sometimes she says daddy has no taste, and that's the sassy part she inherited from you. She would spend a good week sitting in her father's office and embroidering a pillow as a gift for you, with small flowers, because she doesn't know anything else yet. Levi makes sure she doesn't gouge out her eye with the needle, and every time the needle almost pierces her finger, the thread pulls it back. He usually doesn't worry about it, let the child learn. This time he would prefer there was no blood on the embroidery because the gift for you has to be more perfect than anything else.

Leviathan will give you a choker, also embroidered, but with black thread on black material. You can read it only by touch. What does it say? Only you two know. It's so adjustable that it's perfect for both wearing and choking.

#whb #what in hell is bad #whb satan #whb leviathan #whb mammon #whb beelzebub #skye's little talk

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kittyamore0 · 1 year

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Ethan Landry x Dewey and Gales kid reader??

A/N: Dewey and Gale! Dewey and Gale! ◝(ᵔᵕᵔ)◜

𝒐𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕

˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎˊ˗˗ˏˋ 𓆰•ᴗ•𓆪˗ ˎ

✧ - FANDOM/GENRE: Horror, dark romance, scream 6, Ghostface, Ethan Landry

✧ - TAGS: @kittiescrownedsoul, @zspen, @h34rtsformilli ✧ - PAIRING: Ethan Landry x GN! Reader

✧ - RATING: SFW

✧ - WRITING STYLE: One-shot

✧ - POV: 2nd person

✧ - REMINDER: Do NOT transfer, translate, copy, modify, OR steal my ideas! ✧ - CW: Mentions of killing, knife usage, deaths, guns, setting people on fire, deaths, wounds, slitting throats

At first, Ethan hated you, and you hated him. You were related to Gale Weathers and Dewey Riley. The same very people who tried to stop Richie and Amber from their genus plans, and managed to do so.

Dewey tried to help, and he died. Deserved, is what Ethan would like to think, but Gale, Gale was much harder to shake. A fighter, per-say. She was the one to hold Amber at gunpoint and set her on fire.

Sam Crap-enter, and Tara Carpenter. Oh, how much he hated Sam for slitting Richie's throat. Tara? She wasn't as bad, but still bad.

You? Hated you for your parents, but was all...he couldn't find any other reasons to hate you. You were just...perfect? Kind, funny, smart. All of the above. It infuriated him. God, he couldn't stand to see your perfect face, the same face that made his heart jump up and down, cheeks flushed an words caught in his throat.

Why did you hate him? Well...you happened to catch him talking to Quinn, about Richie being their brother. The same Richie that attacked your friends, parents, and you. Although, you didn't stay long enough to hear them talk about some...Ghostface matters.

But just like Ethan, you grown warm, nice, but overwhelming feelings for you. The shy, dorky, fun, funny, kind, nerd. You two always hung out, despite hating each other. It went from distant, to practically sharing food with the same forks!

The more closer and comfortable you two got, the more you both realized what the feelings you held for each other were. Now, it did infact make it more difficult to not give out any weird signs to each other.

Quinn hated the way her brother swooned for you. You were their next victim, not Ethans next lover. She'd always slap the back of Ethans head when he day dreamed about you. "Ow! goddamit...the hell is your problem Quinn?" Quinn sighed. "Stop thinking about your love duck and focus on the plan!" Ethan rolled his eyes.

You were the first to confess. You were drunk at the Halloween party and Ethan? Somewhat sober.

⚬˶♡˶⚬⚬˶♡˶⚬⚬˶♡˶⚬⚬˶♡˶⚬

"Etahn, I've be been look for you!" You giggled, as your body collided with Ethans. "Woah, you okay?" You nodded and nuzzled in his chest. "Now that you're here..." His cheeks flushed bright pink. "How much had you have to drink?" You shrugged. "3...no, wait...5...?" Ethan 'ohh-ed' before gently pulling you closer.

"You're drunk..." He whispered. "Wait...who are you again?" His smile dropped. "Im Eth " You chuckled and grabbed his shirt. "You look just like Ethan!" His eyebrows furrowed, but he smiled, deciding to play your little game. "Really?" You nodded quickly. "Mhm, yea!"

You hugged him. "Hes really cute, and handsome. Hes so nice to me. I like him a lot. I want him to be my boyfriend!" Ethans eyes widened and he stared at you in shock. "What...? "

You put your index finger on Ethans lips. "But shhh! Dont tell him. I dont know if he likes me back..." You murmured sadly. He gently smiled. "Tell you what, Im a friend of Ethans...and and he tells me how much he likes you. How pretty/handsome you are, funny, kind..." You blushed and averted your eyes away from his.

"Guess what?" You looked back at him. "What?" You spoke quietly. "Im the Ethan you're talking about..." A smirk played his lips. "What? No way!" You softly hit his chest. "Yes way!" You replayed in your mind about what he said. "Does...does that mean you like me too?" He nodded. "Want you to be my lover..." He sighed into you and placed his chin on your head.

"Will you...?" His eyes shined in the blue lights. "Yes." You closed the gape between you two.

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beary-rambles · 1 year

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Ok so if you watched scream 4 Jill manipulates charlie into being with her and thinking he's her partner in crime then she kills him. So imagine that with Ethan you join him and date him you actually start to like him but kill and betray him in the end and get away or you can have reader die too if you wanna be extra angsty

Whatever it takes

Summary | You loved your boyfriend you really did, but did you love him enough?

Warnings | Carpenter!reader (tara’s twin), murder, angst, 1.6k wc, heavily jill coded reader

a/n | i loved writing this request !! i hope you like it sorry for the wait 😭

“You're an asshole!” Tara spits at ethan as he laughs, “I know!”

He turns to the other ghostface standing next to him with a smile, “Come on baby lets do this.”

“Baby?” sam mumbles. The ghostface rips off the mask to reveal you. “y/n?” tara says in shock. “Hi tara.”

Ethan laughs, “God look at their reactions this is gold.”

Your sisters watch in horror as ethan moves over to you and give you a deep kiss to which you smile when you pull back. “Its better than i could have imagined.”

You had always fallen into the shadows with your other sisters, Sam obviously had a mass amount of attention due to the Woodsboro attack, you would watch as people would come up and talk to her and scroll through hundreds of social media posts about her.

You cant forget about tara. Who could? she wasnt internet popular like sam was but she was definitely popular amongst the people you knew. Everyone liked tara, of course they did she was funny and super pretty, basically everyone you knew has or had some sort of crush on her at some point and time like wes, amber, even chad.

Then there was you. Tara’s twin sister. Nobody ever remembered you, there was sam, tara and, the other sister. You were fine with it at first but over time you grew to hate it, and hate them. Nobody ever seemed to notice you or even paid attention to you, not until him.

You met Ethan early into your time at Blackmore University. You sat next to him during econ. You could see him stare at you out of the corner of your eye which got you thinking. When you turned to him with sweet eyes and sweetly asking if you could borrow a pen he melted and stuttered before giving you a pen and you gave him a sickly sweet smile to which he looked down and meekly smiled, he was so shy and sweet. He was perfect, exactly what you needed.

You two quickly became friends and soon enough started dating. When you two started dating your friends were happy for you, it was an easy transition since ethan was already friends with chad since they were roommates so he easily made his was into the friend group.

Ethan was quick to follow along with you. He had a troubled home life, never being shown any sort of love and affection as a kid and when he met you who showed him what it felt like to be loved it was easy to get him to do anything you watched him to just do he could please you.

You quickly learned ethan had very…. violent tendencies. He was more than eager to dawn the ghostface mask and begin to brutally, yes brutally kill the people he once called his friends. Anika, mindy, chad. It was easy to him, once he found out you hated them he began to hate them too.

He was the perfect partner, doing all the heavy lifting because he didn't want you to hurt yourself which made you smile.

You didn't truly like him. did you? you did. you found yourself having a warm feeling in your chest whenever he smiled at you, you would find yourself smiling and laughing after hearing his contagious laugh. it was dangerous. you never intended to actually begin to love him like he loved you when it got closer and closer to the time where you would end this you grew more and more upset. You hated it.

Before your sisters had even arrived, you had given ethan a big long hug, one he did not reject. He squeezes you tight like he always did as you bury your face in his neck, taking him in.”i love you ethan.” you can feel him laugh. “I love you too baby.” You pull back and kiss him deeply, he hums into the kiss and smiles, “i cant wait to celebrate with you afterwards.” You almost frown but nod your head leading him to give you a toothy grin.

Sam watches in horror as ethan brutally stabs tara over and over infront of her, tears running down her face while shes sceaming for him to stop. Looking over at you her face grows angry, “Why are you doing this y/n please stop this.”

You scoff youre growing more and more annoyed, “oh shut up itll be your turn soon.”

Ethan seems to be done having his fun with tara and he stands up turns back to you with a smile. “Fuck it felt good to kill her.”

You barely take a glance at her dead body bleeding out with what must be twenty stab wound all over her. You smile and laugh at her empty and soulless eyes as sam hysterically continues to scream and cry.

Ethan turns to her and rolls his eyes, “god shut up.”

He turns back to you and smiles, “Your turn.”

You had told him he could deal with tara, he had his own aggression towards tara since she was always the one to pick on him so he wanted to be the one to kill her while you got to take care of sam.

You give him your own smile and walk over to wear sam is sitting tied up and kick her in the stomach.

“You wanna know why im doing all this? why ive taken everything from you?” You run your knife along her cheek barely caring if she was actually listening to you over her tears.

“because you took everything from ME.” you slash her arm and she cries out looking at you, “what are you talking about?”

You scoff, “Its always been, oh sam and tara oh sam and tara but what about me! i have always been left behind, forgotten, left for last. Even my own friends i had made nyself chose you guys over me and im sick of it!” Another cut hits her along her stomach and she cries out in pain again. “once i slit your throat and watch you bleed out the news will think it was your fault, you went crazy and killed your best friends. But who will live to tell the tale y/n? im sure youre wondering. Me.”

Ethan thinks nothing if your words, glaring at sam as you make your way towards him and wipe a piece of dried blood off his cheek leading him to smile at you. Your hands shake and the grip you have on your knife grows tighter, “i have always lived in your shadow. in her shadow.” you point your knife now turned towards her dead body, “its my turn to be in the limelight and it would finally be my turn.”

You admire ethan for a moment, your eye's almost water as you stare at him, “and i cant share it. with anyone.”

The knife plunges into the side of his neck and his eyes widen as he stumbles back falling to the floor, blood pours out of his mouth and you move to stand above him.

“im sorry.” you crouch down and run your thumb along his cheek, he struggles below you, grabbing your elbows and staring at you with confused eyes which water.

“im sorry baby, but i cant share my fame with anyone not even you. Im sorry.”

You continue to watch and a tear falls down your cheek at his painful face, “i love you, I really do baby. forgive me.”

With the last of his strength he reaches his hand up and cups your cheek, wiping the tear off your face before his hand falls and the light draining from his eyes.

You frown, he was taking care of you and he did it until the very end. You rub your sleeves on your eyes wiping away any tears you had and stand up. Theres no time to mourn now. You had a job to do.

You turn over to sam, a new agression filling you body as you stalk over to sam. the knife covered in ethans blood tight in your hand.

It was her fault, everything was her fault none of this would have had to happen if it werent for her.

You lift the knife high and stare down at her ignoring any words she was saying or the tears running down his face as you slammed the knife down, hard, over and over and over and over and over.

Admiring your handy work you check her pulse, feeling nothing you smile. it was over. but you cant celebrate yet, you make your way over to ethan trying not to look at his bloody face as you rip the ghostface suit off his body and throwing it into one of the empty trashcans and setting it on fire.

You rushed around, you know somebody had called the police so you had to hurry, taking off your own outfit and putting it onto sams body, you had untied her and put the knives near her but not before stabbing yourself twice, “fuck” it hurt of course it did. it did make you smile, knowing that you were the one that caused sam to feel what you just felt but much worse.

You painfully drag sams body closer to where ethan was and take a minute to take a breath.

You mess up your hair and slice at your arms leaving a couple of times hissing each time.

You can hear police sirens outside so falling to your knees and lay down on the ground, facing ethan. you smile, knowing he would be happy you had succeeded.

#ethan landry #ethan landry x reader #ethan landry x you #ethan landry drabble #ethan landry oneshot #ethan landry imagine #ethan landry x y/n #scream vi #scream six #scream #jack champion #jack champion x y/n #jack champion x reader

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pickledpascal · 6 months

Text

Killer Queen

Chapter One: Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy

Warnings: Slurs, blood and gore, violence, soldier boy is like barely in this because it's the first chappie and i wanted to flesh out amber more as a character

Word Count: 3.1k

Killer Queen Masterlist

Next Chapter |

It was peacetime. Or, at least, that's what most people thought it was. Supe's collateral damage was at an all-time low, partly due to the Department of Superhuman Affairs and Congresswoman Nueman and Hughie.

Amber could not believe Hughie was working with the government and was technically Butcher's boss now. She had known the Boys for a while, helping them out on a few missions because she had a personal vendetta against Vought. Nothing too horrible, she was just naturally an anti-capitalist because of her parents. Vought had way too much power for any one company to hold.

Especially since they had Homelander. Whoever came up with that name? Amber thought it was a bit funny. Homelander. She had a feeling he'd crumble if they'd ever met but he didn't get outside much.

There was a knock at her front door. Amber glanced up from her TV and set the remote down, answering it. "Well, hello." She leaned against the door frame.

None other than Billy Butcher stood in front of her. "Hello to you too, love." He hadn't changed in the time they hadn't seen each other. Still had that shit-eating grin on his face.

"Need something?" Amber left Butcher at the open doorway and sat back on her couch.

Butcher stepped inside, closing the door behind him. "Where's the kid?" He glanced around the house, seeing no sign of Ryan.

Amber and her roommate, Eden, were more than fit to take care of Ryan. Eden was a Supe and… well, Butcher didn't know exactly what Amber was but he knew for sure Compound V was not flowing through her veins.

"Eden took him out." Amber could see Butcher take in a breath to start berating her about the dangers of Ryan being seen in public. "Don't worry, Butch. Eden's careful. They're probably at some random park where she knows there ain't any cameras nearby." She thought for a moment, pursing her lips. "Unless you count game cameras but, y'know."

Butcher shook his head and waved her off. "Yeah, I know. Look, mate, that's not why I'm here anyway."

"Okay," Amber said carefully, crossing her legs on the couch. "Wanna explain?"

"There's this weapon. Something that took down Soldier Boy. And me and the Boys have a means of finding it." Butcher explained. His hand twitched slightly at his side. Amber waited for the catch. "But, it's at a Russian base." And there it is. "And while we could get in there ourselves, would be nice having someone watch our backs."

Amber sighed, brushing a hand through her hair. She could tell he wanted to use it on Homelander. For Ryan. For Becca. His perfect revenge. And, to be honest, Amber couldn't blame him.

"What do you need me to do?"

Getting to the Russian base sucked. She had to wear a janitor's jumpsuit and it itched in all the wrong places. She had to adjust the fabric on her crotch a few times. Amber leaned against their truck while Kimiko talked with her.

Your hair looks pretty, Kimiko signed with a smile. Amber's hair was thrown into a ponytail much like hers but, from the last time Kimiko had seen her, some pieces of deep blue framed her face.

Amber smiled softly at Kimiko. "Thank you." She talked as she signed before she heard a crackling of electricity. It must've been Butcher fucking up the power box.

They all made their way inside the main lab area, Frenchie and Kimiko began looking through files while Marvin, Hughie, and Butcher just looked around for anything that could even resemble a weapon. Amber was more interested in the strange pod that stood in the middle of the room. She tried to take a look inside the small sliver of glass but it was way too frozen over for her to see anything. Her curiosity died.

As Amber started to look through a desk, the alarm went off. The whole room, and possibly the entire building, was drenched in red light. "Shit." She ducked down as she heard the door get slammed open.

All or nothing, huh? While the Boys had guns and Kimiko had her powers, their ammo was limited and even Kimiko didn't always like using her powers. Plus, they were outnumbered. As always.

Amber grabbed a nearby man and punched him so hard that his helmet broke, she broke his arm for good measure. He screamed in pain. She stomped on the floor causing the ground to rumble as a perfectly shaped block all of a sudden lifted to send another man flying through the ceiling. Amber punched in the air, a fire emitting from her fist that caught a Russian on fire. She swept at his legs and stomped on his chest, wiping her boot on the ground afterward.

"Oi, cunts!" Butcher lazered someone behind her. Amber stood back, surprised. When did Butcher become a Supe? Either way, she was glad he got that guy for her.

Once the henchmen were all dead, Marvin and Butcher had a little lover's tiff about Compound V. Amber didn't really pay attention. But they hadn't found any Supe-killing weapon yet. Her eyes shifted back to that pod. She could feel the water pumping into it, freezing something inside. At first, she didn't really care but if it was what they were looking for….

"Woah, we don't know what's in that." Hughie reasoned as Amber stepped closer.

Amber looked at him sharply, "Do you want to come up empty-handed?" Hughie didn't have a response to that. "Didn't think so." She held out her hands in front of the pod, feeling for any way she could open it without completely breaking it.

"I know, she's hot when she's angry." Frenchie whispered behind her, likely because Kimiko said something.

When Amber found no proper way to open it, she put her fingers in the edges of the door and completely pulled it off its hinges. She threw it to the side and stepped back. There was a hiss of steam, too great for her to even see through but it went away over time. Revealing a face. Who was very much alive.

"Soldier Boy." Butcher whispered beside her. He was shocked but it didn't show on his face. It showed on Marvin's face.

Amber had heard of Soldier Boy before. Of course she had. But, like everyone else, she assumed he died in the '80s. Due to saving our country from nuclear holocaust? She wasn't so sure. But there he was, in the middle of a Russian lab very much alive.

Soldier Boy stumbled out of the chamber, breaking free from whatever bound him to it in the first place. Firstly, Amber noticed his large beard and then that he was completely naked. She looked away, covering her mouth with disgust. Until she noticed rubble was gravitating towards Soldier Boy. And his chest was starting to glow.

Amber knew she'd be able to withstand whatever blast he made but what about the others? She opted to guard Marvin while Kimiko dove to protect Frenchie. Except Soldier Boy hit her right through a wall, causing a large piece of metal to wedge itself in Kimiko's leg. And she wasn't healing.

Frenchie ran over to her, Soldier Boy was long forgotten. Who the fuck cared when the love of his life was in danger? Blood was seeping out of her and Kimiko had a hard time staying awake. They were able to get her into the truck, Marvin flashed a light in her eyes to try and keep her eyes open.

"Hey, you have water right?" Amber asked Butcher, slapping his shoulder as he drove to the nearest safe house they had.

Butcher nodded, throwing a water bottle in the back. She caught it with ease and broke the seal.

Amber waved her hand and the water flowed out and onto Kimiko's wound. "Frenchie, I'm gonna say three, two, one and I want you to take that out of her, okay?" Frenchie was frantic and Amber couldn't help but feel for him. He nodded, tears drying on his face as he gripped the metal piping. "Three. Two. One."

Frenchie ripped it out and Kimiko's head lulled as Amber got to work healing her as best as possible. She wasn't the best at water-healing but she'd been working on it.

At the safe house, Frenchie set Kimiko in her own makeshift hospital room with gauze around her thigh. Amber and Marvin sat in the garage, watching some tapes they took from the lab. Tapes of Soldier Boy getting AK-47 rounds down his throat, scalpels to the eye, and all kinds of other shitty stuff.

Amber pursed her lips. They had done some sort of nuclear testing on an already very powerful Supe. That wasn't good. Well, maybe it was for Butcher. Kimiko was normal now. As normal as she could be.

"Did you really think this was a good idea?" Aang had a hand on his forehead.

When did Amber slip into the Spirit Realm? She didn't do it intentionally. But, then of course, there were times Aang or Roku wanted to tell her how disappointed they were in her so they'd drag her into it.

Amber glanced around, her world was paused as Aang's spirit stood in front of her. "Soldier Boy is gonna be our weapon. We just gotta find him." She crossed her arms, staring back at Aang.

When she was younger, she revered Aang. Avatars weren't taught in schools anymore and there were barely any relics of the time. Benders of any kind were thought to be killed off or simply non-existent anymore. Supes kind of replaced them. Until Amber came along and she had visions of a land that did not look like the one she was brought up in. She was young when she first met Aang, he was similar to a father figure and guided her through the stages of life and taught her how to be strong.

Except Amber was naturally strong already. As far as she knew, her physical strength exceeded any other Avatar before her. She wasn't sure why. Perhaps it was the Avatar running through her that knew she'd have to be stronger if she was going to exist in a world overrun by Vought.

"He doesn't seem stable. You need to keep him under control." Aang advised, careful not to make his tone too pointed, or else Amber would happily make her way back into her body.

"She's not an idiot, Aang." Korra chimed in. As Amber grew older, she realized she had a lot more in common with Korra than Aang.

He let out a sharp breath. "She's still young. And has a lot to learn."

Amber was twenty-five, a grown adult with a house. And while Aang was right to an extent, Amber had been fighting for her life nearly every day since she was born. It was hard to keep her bending hidden from Vought but she was careful and so were her parents. Real peace was never in the cards for her.

Letting out a breath, Aang and Korra disappeared and she was back in real life. She opened her eyes with a hand on her shoulder. Marvin. "You alright? Your tattoos were doing that glowy thing again."

Amber gave Marvin a polite smile and nodded, rubbing her hand up her arm where a few tattoos were. "I'm good. Had a little convo with my ancestors. Y'know, the usual." She stood up and went to the bathroom, locking the door behind her.

She wanted to scream. Amber leaned over the sink and looked at herself in the mirror. Aang had saved the world at twelve. Korra had saved the world multiple times over a year or two and what had Amber done? Nothing. She killed a few Supes, a lot more non-supes, and nothing life-changing happened because of it. She was the Avatar. The savior of the people. And what saving had she done? Kimiko was struggling to stay alive, her parents were dead, and everyone Amber had as a mentor nearly died as well. And they weren't saved by her hands.

Amber took in a shaky breath as she stared at herself. Her emotions were becoming too much. Her eyes started to glow blue. No. She shook her head and took a deep breath. Eden. She willed herself to think about that instead. Eden was still alive. Her only friend that wasn't connected to the Boys. Or, the only friend she had made outside the Boys. Eden had a thing going on with Hughie. And Starlight. Amber didn't question it.

"Is she gonna have a meltdown?" Hughie asked in a whisper.

Butcher glared at him. "Shut the fuck up." He had a bit of a soft spot for Amber. They both had people they loved taken away from them, not to mention they felt the overwhelming need to do anything it took to get revenge on whoever took it away from them.

Back in New York, a bunch of shit went sideways. Soldier Boy went nuclear in front of some random building but Marvin made the connection he was likely going to the Legend.

—---

"Do you think this is even gonna work?" Amber crossed her arms. Butcher had just drugged Marvin and set him as gently as possible on the ground.

Butcher cocked an eyebrow at her. "Doubting me now, love?" He asked with a small laugh.

Amber heard footsteps on gravel, causing her to look in the direction they came from. Sure enough, Soldier Boy rounded the corner of a beat-up car in his suit. He'd trimmed his beard and hair. He looked a lot better than he did at the Russian base. Amber narrowed his eyes at him, ready to fight in case that's what he wanted.

"You two… you're from the lab." Soldier Boy's eyes studied the two of them. They stayed a little longer than necessary on Amber. She had a feeling as to why but he didn't voice it so neither would she. "Why are you here?"

Amber could ask the same question but she already knew the answer. "We want to come to an agreement. Of sorts." Butcher smiled wickedly. "You can call this…" He waved to the trailer behind him. "A gesture of good faith."

Soldier Boy narrowed his eyes ever so slightly. They were going to let him kill the Crimson Countess. He stepped closer, making his way inside and they made no move to stop him. But Avery could hear the conversation from outside.

It was hard not to feel a little bit of sympathy for the man. The Crimson Countess called him Ben. He was captured, experimented on, shot full of nearly any chemical they had in the compound all because of her. But Amber also felt for her as well. Soldier Boy got all the glory and she assumed he had the ego as high as a mountain, knowing him to some extent would be hell. It sucked that Amber was going to be in that hell.

And then the trailer blew up. She thought she was gonna see it coming. She didn't. Amber was flown a good ten feet away and landed on her stomach. "Fuck me…" She groaned as she rolled onto her back.

Hughie and Annie came running, only to see Amber on the ground and Butcher carrying Marvin. "What happened? Is he hurt?" Annie's eyes were wide at the sight.

"No need to worry about him. Just four or five milligrams of Rohypnol." Butcher shrugged.

Annie's eyes started to glow. "You fucking roofied him?"

The trailer behind them was in shambles, smoke everywhere but Amber could hear someone coming out from the rubble. Soldier Boy with not even a scratch or hair out of place. Annie's eyes shifted to him, prepared to fight.

Hughie stepped in front of her while Amber did the same. She let them have whatever talk they were gonna have, glancing back at Soldier Boy. He didn't want to fight them. The Countess was the only thing he came for. Amber narrowed his eyes at him.

She'd heard stories about him from the Legend seeing as he was the only one she knew that had ever met Soldier Boy before. Amber knew that whatever beta Compound V they gave him made him stop aging past forty, that he was a grade A Playboy, and was involved in quite a few cover-ups over the years. Whatever Soldier Boy was pumped full of in those early days of Vought, Amber thought Homelander needed it. She counted quite a few wrinkles on his face that Soldier Boy didn't have.

Yeah, Amber had to admit the guy was attractive but she'd never say that to his face. While Soldier Boy seemed a little… emotionally stunted at the moment, she had a feeling that'd change and he'd go back to his ways the moment they got out of there.

And she was right.

Amber nearly had to throw up while Butcher and Hughie tried talking to him. The man had only a robe on and was in the middle of trying to fuck someone. He hadn't even bothered to lock the door.

"I think it would be a good idea if you stayed with Amber." Butcher suggested.

Amber had checked out for most of the conversation until that. "Wait, the fuck?" She shook her head. "Butch, I'm not taking care of…" She waved in the general direction of Soldier Boy, still not wanting to look at him. "That."

Ben wrapped his silk robe around his body and cocked an eyebrow at her. "What are you? Some kind of fag?" He stood from the bed, tilting his head. Hughie's eyes widened while Butcher just looked amused. "You're tall enough to be a tranny so I wouldn't be surprised."

"Yeah? And I bet you'd just love having my cock in your mouth to shut you up." Amber countered with a glare, finally looking Soldier Boy in the eyes. Butcher let out a loud laugh, turning away from the two of them.

He had nothing to stay in response, staring at her with hard eyes. "You're a feisty one, I'll give you that." Ben tilted his head slightly.

Butcher turned back and shook his head, motioning with his hand. "Whatever the fuck this is, you're gonna have to get along." He faced Amber, "I don't like it as much as you do, love, but we both know you're the safest person he," Butcher jutted his head in the direction of Soldier Boy. "Can be with."

Amber's jaw clenched, looking from Butcher to Ben. She had a feeling Eden wouldn't like him living with them but, hopefully, it wouldn't be for too long. "Fine." She stepped closer to Ben, fists at her sides. "You get out of line, you're fucked."

"I plan on it." Ben smirked.

----

taglist open here !!

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razorblade180 · 10 months

Text

Group Gift

Countless of Aether’s friends gather in the Teapot as the man himself stands in front of the house. Nobody had to wonder why as it was painfully clear to notice three columns of steam that came from three separate hot spring locations across the realm.

Aether:Can anyone guess what I’ve done?

Everyone:….

Klee and Yoi:You made a hot spring!

Aether:Thanks you two. You get first dibs.

Everyone:Aether you’re so cool!

Aether:I don’t need an ego boost! I just wanted participation! Anyways, everyone has be doing a good and I personally wanted to do this for awhile. Finally found the time!

Keqing:*silent judgement*

Aether:Don’t do that.

Keqing:I’m just wondering how this got into your head.

Miko:Yes, do tell.

Aether:I found a blueprint and thought, “this could be nice.” That’s all.

Rosaria:Doubt.

Aether:You doubt everything. Now then, let me explain why I have three. One at the bottom near the beach is for the boys. Middle elevation near the main house is for our ladies, and the one up on the hill is special circumstances.

Kaeya:*inhales*

Aether:Let me explain. Shush! It is indeed a coed bath, but primarily for when people are incredibly filthy. Let’s say Razor and Lisa get done exploring and Razor fell in mud or was reckless. He’s gonna need Lisa’s help to make sure he’s cleared properly.

Razor:I clean myself fine.

Lisa:Did you wash behind your ears today?

Razor:Sigh…. *looks down*

Albedo:I see. So in situations where perhaps a certain someone accidentally sets off my lab experiment with an explosion and we get covered in ash…

Klee:I didn’t mean to!

Aether:Exactly! A perfect use of that! You get dibs as well.

Itto:Okay, but feel a little unfair that us guys gotta hike to the bottom and back up? How’d that happen!?

Kaeya:You didn’t really think he’d make a system where our elevations would be above our distinguished ladies, did you?

Itto:Umm, what’s wrong with that? I’m sure they’d like the beach.

Kaeya:….You’re a good and earnest man, Itto.

Tighnari:I assume you have a reason for the third one to be the highest?

Aether:*claps hands together* Klee, Qiqi, Yaoyao, and Diona. I need you to cover your ears tightly and humm your favorite songs until I say stop.

Kids:Understood! *covers ears* hmmm hmm hmmm~

Aether:Listen up you heathen.

Everyone:(So it did cross his mind…)

Aether:I do not care what kind of romantic label you want to put on your individual relationship with whoever you’re with. If you want to “relax” together, use the coed. I already have to clean it more often than the other two. And to answer Tighnari, it’s because it’s very easy to tell when it’s in use and spot ahead of time who’s making their way there. For example, let’s say after a particular messy day you want to go up there but notice a certain Sister and Knight….

Rosaria and Kaeya: Wha-

Aether:At this point you should have in your mind the potential reasons for their journey. Granted, I’ve put dividers in that spring, but use your common sense, like waiting for an appropriate time. Are we clear?

Everyone:Crystal.

Aether:Now I need to hear that again from who this really applies to. Yae…

Yae:And what exactly are you implying? *crosses arms*

Aether:…

Gorou:Say it.

Yae:…I will follow the rules.

Aether:Venti?

Venti:I wouldn’t dream ruining your hospitality.

Kazuha:Same goes for me.

Lisa:I’ll play nice~

Aether:Not very convincing with that specific tone but I’ll hold you to it. *looks at kids and gives a thumbs up* Alright everyone, I’ve stolen enough of your time. Now if you excuse me…I’m tired and making this took a while.

Aether casually leaves towards the coed bath to use it. Before anyone could have further discussion about this wonderful new addition, Amber also casually started walking up the trail. She looked at them, waved with a smile, then continued on about her business and catching up with Aether.

Grown up:(SHE ISN’T EVEN TRYING TO HIDE IT!)

Aether:*red* Ma’am, what are you doing. I’m actually filthy.

Amber:I know. I’ll help with your back.

Aether:…I can’t tell if that’s your excuse or for intent so bravo I guess. But…people are staring.

Amber:*holds hand*☺️

Aether:*flustered* (Maybe I should’ve announced this to everyone separately.)

#genshin impact #gi aether #gi amber #keqing #yae miko #albedo kreideprinz #gi klee #gi rosaria #kaeya alberich #gi tighnari #lisa minci #gi razor #yoimiya naganohara

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melodyalanaroster · 1 month

Photo

Under The Stars With You

The results for the Seniors’ final exams were ready and had been posted. It was finally the day the class found out if whether or not they were graduating. However, the majority of the students had something else on their minds. Most of the girls would not stop talking about what they were going to wear to the Senior Prom. “Come on Nath! Let’s go get our scores!” Alana cheered as she pulled his hand towards their homeroom. “Really? We all know you two passed. You don’t need to see your scores.” Sam laughed as she and Kentin walked up behind them. “We need to make sure.” Nathaniel smiled. When Mr. Faraize entered the room, he looked at the four of them cheerily. “Hello students.” He beamed. “Good morning sir! Where are our scores?” Alana asked, curiously. “Patience, Miss Roster. I will hand everyone’s files out as soon as class starts.” Mr. Faraize chuckled.

When everyone had taken their seats, the class was a buzz with talk about the upcoming events. “I’m gonna be Prom Queen!” Amber loudly proclaimed. “Who would vote for a vain drama queen like you?” Sam asked. “I know you and your idiot sister won’t get it!” Amber shot back. “Remember! My sister is dating your brother!” Sam popped off. “Quiet everyone!” Mister Faraize called as he picked up a stack of folders and stood at the front of the classroom. “Your exam results are in these files and will show you if any of you need to retake them to graduate. To those of you who passed on the first go, congratulations! You may spend the rest of the year focusing on Graduation and, of course, Prom. If you need to retake any of the exams, please come see me and we can schedule your retakes.” He announced. Several students looked around, worried. “I hope I passed!” Violette blurted out. “I’m sure you did fine!” Kim assured her. Mister Faraize began walking around the room and handing out folders. “Are you kidding me?! I have to retake my history exam?!” Amber shouted. “At least it’s only one test.” Lin attempted to comfort her. “I passed all mine!” Alana cheered. “I told you so!” Sam laughed. “I got all A’s!” Nathaniel beamed. Kentin looked through his file. “I barely passed Math, but I made it!” He cheered. “I wonder where mom is gonna take us to get our dresses...” Alana pondered out loud. “Probably the more aristocratic side of town... Achille is gonna be out of town this weekend, so Mom will most likely use it as an excuse to hang out with Aunt V.” Sam shrugged. “Yeah, right! Like you’re gonna get designer dresses! I doubt you’ll even get something out of a BARGAIN bin!” Amber scoffed. Sam and Alana looked at her and rolled their eyes. “You’re right Sam... Not to mention, Verity and Agatha know where to get the dresses that will look the best on us!” Alana chuckled.

“Alana! What are you gonna wear to Prom?” Rosalaya asked as they walked towards the Gym. “I bet you’re gonna wear a lovely ball gown! Just like a princess!” Alexy cheered. “Nope! I’m going for something elegant and formal. I’ve already decided that I want a floor length, blue, dress and silver accessories.” Alana explained. “That sounds lovely!” Alexy beamed. When they got to the Gym, Boris was already at work directing the students in preparation for the weekend’s festivities. “Don’t forget! There is plenty of time to nominate and vote for Prom Royalty! We need a King and Queen and runners up!” He announced. “I know who I’m gonna nominate and vote for!” Rosa cooed. “Who?” Alana asked. “It’s a secret!” Rosa smirked as she walked over to the ballot box, wrote two names on a card and dropped it in. Alana looked at her friends and thought for a couple of minutes. “You could write your own name and run for Prom Queen.” The voice in her head suggested. “No. I want it to be someone who truly deserves the title... Someone who is a great friend. And I want Prom King to be someone sweet too.” She thought back. Suddenly, the choices were obvious. “I know the perfect people to have the title.” She sighed as she walked over to the ballot box, wrote her choices down and dropped the card in. “The theme is “Under The Stars” and we are going to make this place fabulous!” Boris cheerfully called. “Don’t forget to purchase your Prom Tickets so you can get your invitations by the end of the week!” Mr. Faraize instructed as he walked into the room and began putting up decorations.

After everyone had given Mr. Faraize their money for their tickets and the Gym’s transformation had begun taking shape, the bell rang for lunch. “Alana, before we go eat, I wanna talk to you.” Nathaniel cooed. “What’s up?” Alana asked, curiously. He took her hands and looked deep into her eyes. “I know its already been implied... But... Will you g-go to Prom with me?” He asked. “Of course! I’d love to!” Alana blurted out with tears in her eyes. “Great! I’ll meet you at your apartment that night!” He beamed. Filled with joy, Alana threw her arms around him and kissed his cheek. “I can’t wait to dance with you that night!” She cheered. “Come on you two! We saved your seats!” Armin called as he poked his head around a corner. Nathaniel walked a couple of feet forward, turned around and held his hand out to her. “Shall we?”

As the day went on, several students could be heard complaining about their test scores, the loudest of which was Amber. “I still can’t believe I have to focus on my retake! I wanna put more focus on my Prom outfit and becoming queen!” She whined when she entered the classroom. “Amber, calm the frick down! All you have to do is a little bit of studying, and retake the stinking test! Then, once you at least get a somewhat passing grade, you can focus on your little fantasy!” Alana angrily huffed as she and Priya entered the room and grabbed a few items from Mister Faraize’s cupboard. “I don’t wanna hear anything from the little wretch who ruined my family, poisoned my brother against us, and took him from us!” Amber shouted. “I didn’t ruin your family! I did not poison him against you. Your brother is free to be who he wants and associate with you and your mom. He just doesn’t want anything to do with your dad, and you know why! And, I’m his GIRLFRIEND, if he wants to spend time with you, it would be wrong of me to stop that!” Alana shot back.

★

“I am so happy that we get to take you shopping as a family! This will be wonderful!” Verity loudly cheered as Sam and Alana entered their living room. “I wish Rini could be here...” Alana sighed. “I know... But she’s got her studies and Achille won’t let her leave the school until she graduates.” Verity looked down. “I’m sure that, once she graduates, she’ll be able to go shopping for more formal dresses with us another time!” Lynne beamed as she did her best to maintain an upbeat mood. “If Achille ever lets her...” Alana muttered. “Well, let us all pile into the car so we may start this fashion adventure!” Verity cooed as she motioned towards the door. “Yeah, let’s get this party started!” Sam boomed. When the ladies got out of the apartment building, they noticed a limousine parked in front of it. “Come on girls! Let’s go SHOPPING!” Agatha cheered as she stuck the top half of her body out of the sun roof of the vehicle. “Hey girls!” Seraphina smiled as she stepped out and opened one of the doors. “This is definitely going to be an event!” Alana laughed. “Oh god...” Sam chuckled.

When everyone got settled down in the limousine, Verity looked at Sam and Alana. “So, girls, before we get started... What styles are you aiming for?” She asked. Alana was quick to describe the style that she had mentioned to Rosalaya and Alexy. “Of course you’d go with elegant and classic! I love it!” Verity cooed. “So, Sam? What about you?” Seraphina inquired. “I think I wanna go with something kind of out of my element... Something short and glittery.” Sam smirked. “Oh god, you’re aiming to drive poor Ken insane!” Alana laughed. “And what if I am? I’m not like you. I don’t aim to be a proper lady!” Sam spat. “I’m not a proper lady! I just like classic elegance!” Alana spat. “Just like a proper lady!” Agatha laughed. “Can we just go?!” Alana huffed. “Yes, let’s begin this adventure! I’ve booked the finest shop in town for this day!” Verity cheered.

The Aristocratic district of Amouria was filled to the brim with businesses that catered to the finer side of society. Towering skyscrapers, expensive apartments, high dollar enterprises, designer shops, Michelin Star restaurants, and world renowned patisseries all made the quaint, worldly, non-aristocratic side of the city look like it was an entirely different realm. “We’re going to shop for a couple of hours, then I’ve gotten us a table at Across The Universe for a late lunch or early supper! The top table in the garden of course!” Verity beamed. “This is going to be an absolutely lovely day!” Agatha cooed. “I suppose it will be!” Alana smiled as the limousine pulled up in front of a skyscraper. The group walked into the building and was greeted by a young lady at the front desk. “Mrs. Mekina, Ladies Roster, welcome to Regalia. Mademoiselle Baudelaire is waiting for you upstairs.” She nodded. “Thank you. We’ll take ourselves up there.” Verity smiled as an attendant opened the elevator and they all went upstairs.

Mademoiselle Giselle Baudelaire had become the youngest, most sought after, fashion designer in Astaria. Having gained a reputation amongst the Astarian Aristocracy for her fine details and her fashion forward designs, it was obvious that she was going to be Verity’s choice to design the looks for her goddaughters. “Lady Verity! Welcome back to my humble studio!” The pink haired, porcelain skinned, woman with a pink eye and a yellow eye beamed as she walked up to them. “Mademoiselle Baudelaire! Its always a pleasure!” Verity cheered as the women shared a quick hug and two air kisses on the sides of each other’s heads. Giselle looked at the young ladies standing before her. “Well, well, well! I have never been able to design looks for the legendary Roster Clan! The family who has been essential in our nation’s creation and maintenance, and yet... Refuses to become part of the aristocracy. To what do I owe the pleasure?” She cheered. “Pleasure to meet you Mademoiselle Baudelaire, we are here to create my daughters’ prom looks.” Lynne announced. “Its a pleasure to meet you Miss Baudelaire. I’m Melody.” Alana politely bowed. “And I’m Sam.” Sam smirked. “It’s a pleasure to meet you too ladies. Now... Who would like to go first?” Giselle asked as she motioned for one of the girls to go stand on the platform in the middle of the room. “I will.” Alana announced. “Look at Mels taking charge!” Agatha mused.

After several minutes of Alana explaining her vision for her look, Giselle smiled as she walked around the room. “Your idea is very simplistic... I won’t be able to design and completely make it within this short time period... However... I do already have something made that wouldn’t take much alterations, if any.” She smiled as she walked into a room, rummaged around a bit and walked out carrying a floor length, deep blue, dress. “Here. Go try this on and let’s see what else we need to do to bring your vision to life.” She mused as she held the dress up for Alana to look at. “It looks great!” Alana smiled as she ran off to the dressing room. While Alana changed, Giselle asked Sam about her vision for her prom look. “I want something short, maybe a little sheer, glittery in the chest area... I’m not looking to be Prom Queen. I just wanna drive my date insane.” Sam smirked. “Samantha... You drive that poor boy mad enough as it is.” Lynne snickered. “Well... I think I have exactly what you’re looking for.... Young Miss Lafferty recently wanted a green dress, but when I made this, she threw a fit... I almost banned her from the shop for her actions...” Giselle explained as she pulled a very short green dress off of one of the racks. Just as the dress had made it’s way into Sam’s arms, Alana walked out of the dressing room wearing the blue dress that had been presented to her. “It’s a bit loose... But I love the style!” Alana observed when she made her way to the platform. “Melody! That dress is so you!” Lynne cheered. “Elegant! Absolutely radiant!” Verity cooed. “Our little Pixie Princess looks just like royalty!” Agatha mused. “Not bad, Mels!” Seraphina grinned. “We can take the dress in.... But it needs something...” Giselle stated as she looked Alana over. “I’m thinking a blue choker, a blue bracelet, blue heels, and maybe a blue clutch purse.” Alana replied. “That’s not what I mean... It needs a little... Sparkle.” Giselle observed. After a couple of minutes of thinking, the designer quickly looked up, ran off to a different part of the salon, quickly came back and draped a silver jeweled belt around Alana’s hips. “There! Just what that needed!” She mused. Alana looked in the mirror and smiled. “I love it!” She cheered. “Fantastic! I’ll get your measurements and we can take it in here within the week! Now, miss Sam, please go put on the dress that I handed you.” Giselle instructed. “Got it.” Sam nodded.

Minutes later, Sam walked out of the dressing room wearing a VERY short, green, dress that showcased an emerald, glittery, corset and a sheer, long sleeved top. “You’re wearing tights!” Lynne blurted out. “But, other than that? I think Ken will go insane!” Sam chuckled as a devilish smirk spread it’s way across her face. “I’m thinking, open toed, pumps and a silver bracelet.” Verity suggested. “Ken’s gonna have to go take a cold shower after prom.” Alana laughed. “Who is to say I’m not gonna indulge him?” Sam mischievously asked. “Really Sam? Sex on prom night is a little... American, is it not?” Alana judged. “At least we’ve been together for most of this year! Watch, I predict that, before long, Nathaniel will be whisking you away to his apartment for a night of dirty bad fun!” Sam spat. “Well, you’re both being given extra protection that night!” Lynne huffed. “Relax Lynne! You remember when you were their age! You took that poet and you both got caught doing it in his parent’s bed at the after party!” Agatha laughed. Lynne instantly looked horrified. “The girls did not know that story. Thanks for that.” She gasped. “Lynne, that is not the craziest thing you’ve done.” Seraphina joked. “Oh, yeah! What about that time she ran off with the Black Knight from that Ren Faire?” Agatha asked. “Aren’t you still wondering if he’s Melody’s father?” Verity asked. “Wait, what? Mom, is my biological father the Black Knight?” Alana asked, confused. “Enough! Melody, what does it matter? You are a Roster. You are my daughter, and if you choose to take on the role, you will be the head of the family when I step down.” Lynne boomed. “Geez mom... I was just asking...” Alana blurted out as she looked at her mother, bewildered. “Well... Ladies, I think we have found the perfect dresses for the girls! They’ll need to be fitted one more time a couple of days before the event, so I’ll need them here on this day at this time.” Giselle announced as she tapped on a tablet and showed it to Lynne. “We can do that. How much is this going to cost?” Lynne nodded. “Don’t worry about the cost, Lynne. I’m paying for it.” Verity beamed.

Later that day, the group of women sat at the top garden table at Across The Universe and ate their food. “Did you hear? The Royal Family has ordered that the new Cultural Center that’s being built in Amouria become the tallest building on this side of Europe. And they want it done in record time.” Verity chattered. “Really? Did they throw out the original builders?” Lynne asked. “Yeah. Apparently, they’ve gotten architects, engineers, and designers from Dubai to take over the project with the orders to get it done in five years.” Verity explained. “That’s gonna suck for this place... Across The Universe is known for having the highest restaurant on this side of Europe. What’s gonna happen if another tower blocks the view from up here?” Alana asked. “The tower is only going to block the view of the mountains. We can still see the sea from up here.” Verity clarified. “Well... We’ll have to visit the top observation deck when its finished.” Sam chuckled. “I think so too! It’ll be fun!” Agatha mused. “Another family outing for the future? I’m okay with that.” Seraphina nodded.

★

“Well! My dress is going to be from the best designer in France!” Amber boasted. “Ah... Yes, what crime did your father have to commit to get Antoine Moulin to sell you one of his pieces?” Sam cackled as she and Alana walked past Amber and her crew in the main hallway. “He didn’t commit any crime! Anyway, it’ll be better than anyone who sold you two dresses!” Amber spat. “As if Giselle Baudelaire is a hack...” Alana smirked. “How did YOU get dresses from Regalia?” Li asked, insulted. “Aunt Verity often gets clothes from her shop. She was quite happy to service the Roster Clan.” Alana chuckled. “You keep forgetting something major, sweetheart... By basic societal standards, compared to us, you are vermin. We choose to not be aristocracy... But that doesn’t stop King Julius from hoping that his little son will pick one of the two of us for his bride. That doesn’t stop the Astier Clan from praying to the gods that, one day, we will finally take the titles that they have been trying to give our family ever since the first true Astarian King ascended the throne.” Sam snickered. “That also doesn’t stop the legends of our family being monster hunters from continuing to stand the test of time. And don’t get me started on how the history of the Roster Clan is also the history of the city of Weathering. Amber, we should not be forced to be somewhat classist towards you... Yet, here we are.” Alana remarked. “Oh, by the way, its not just our dresses that are being done by Regalia...” Sam began. “What do you mean?” Amber angrily inquired. “Nathaniel and Kentin are getting their suits from there as well.” Alana smirked.

★

The closer Prom got, the more excited everyone became. Not long after Prom, Graduation would happen and everyone would be off to college. Although, Alana had started taking longer looks at her mother at times, as Lynne had begun coughing more and more with each passing day. “She’s probably just got something in her throat! I wouldn’t worry too much about it!” Rosalaya cheered. “For several days straight?” Alana asked. “You know your mom. I’m sure she’ll go to the doctor and see that she’s right as rain!” Rosalaya reassured her. “I really hope you’re right... She’s been spending an awful lot of time around Carol too...” Alana sadly sighed. “Alana... Your mom is going to be okay! Its not your job to worry about her health and make sure she’s good. Now, focus on the fact that, in just a couple more days, you’ll be dancing the night away with your prince charming!” Rosalaya mused. “You’re right! I should be more focused on looking amazing for when I’m able to be in Nathaniel’s arms as his princess!” Alana cooed.

★

“I can’t believe the girls are off to their Senior Prom!” Lynne coughed as the girls finished prepping for the event. “Lynne, don’t stress yourself too much! The doctors still don’t know what’s wrong!” Verity soothed. “I’m gonna be fine! I’m just excited to see my daughters all dressed up!” Lynne hissed. Sam stepped out of her room as she straightened out the bottom of her dress. “Watch out! This’ll probably be the last time you see me dressed up like this!” Sam confidently snapped. “This will definitely not be the last time you see me dressed like this! I love it too much!” Alana cheered as she stepped out of her room and joined her sister. The girls wore their clothes with pride. Sam’s hair was pulled over to her right side in a simple hair tie and decorated with a shiny green hair ribbon. Alana’s hair was done in a princess like up-do with flowers along the top like a crown. “Look at my girls!” Lynne had begun to sob as she and Agatha instantly jumped into a frenzy of photo taking. Alana looked at Verity with pleading eyes and mouthed “Help us!”. “Come on now ladies! I’m sure the boys are waiting right outside the door, too nervous to knock! Let’s get our princesses to their princes and the young couples to their carriage!” Verity excitedly urged. “But the boys aren’t even here yet!” Agatha whined. “Actually, they’re both outside. Kentin is freaking out over the fact that you guys have a limo waiting for us!” Sam pointed out as she put her phone back in her bag. “Wait, you guys have a limo for us? I thought you guys didn’t like that level of pageantry!” Alana blurted out. “Its your Senior Prom. You only get one! Let us have our fun and make you two the stars of this show!” Lynne mused. “Now, come on you four! Get in front of the limo so we can take pictures!” Agatha cheered. “First all four of you, then we want pics of the girls, then the boys, then each couple!” Lynne demanded.

What felt like hours passed before the women would let them into the limo and send them off to the event. “I know that was only a few minutes, but it felt like an eternity!” Sam whined as the car pulled away from the apartment. “I’m not even sure why they got a limo.... The apartment isn’t even that far from the school...” Alana commented. “I think its sweet. Your family adores you two enough to shower you with love and affection, and make a fuss over you when its important.” Nathaniel smiled. “Well... The one thing I’m looking forward to the most is dancing the night away in your arms.” Alana cooed as she looked at him lovingly. “I-I can’t wait to spend the whole evening with you... My princess.” He whispered into her ear. Excitement instantly shot through Alana’s nerves like a bolt of electricity and radiated throughout her body. “Watch it you two... Mom did offer to get us both hotel rooms in case we wanted to have our own little “after parties”...” Sam cackled. “WHAT?!” Nathaniel and Kentin blurted out in unison. “Yeah... Apparently Mom’s Prom was crazy... So she’s got funds set aside for whatever we might need... Including hotel rooms and extra protection...” Sam explained. “Is this true?” Nathaniel asked Alana, bewildered. “Yep.” Alana nodded. “Holy hell...” Kentin gasped. “I d-don’t think w-we’ll need a h-hotel room tonight...” Nathaniel blushed. “I’m not sure if we’re there just yet.” Alana blushed. “The fuck you’re not?! You’ve been wanting to mount him for a while!” The voice in her head boomed. “We haven’t been together long! Its not appropriate!” She thought back. “Suit yourself... We’ll probably have other plans...” Sam smirked. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have arrived.” The driver announced as he pulled the limo to a stop. “You ready for this?” Alana asked Nathaniel. “Of course.” He sweetly smiled.

The driver opened the door and the two couples were hit by a tsunami of clicking cameras, lights, and people rushing to greet them. “GUYS! You look amazing!” Rosalaya cheered. “Thanks you and Leigh look fantastic!” Alana mused as she hugged Rosa. “Thank you!” Rosa beamed. Several members of the Photography Club took their pictures as Rosa walked ahead of the group and lead them into the Gym. “Dance floor?” Sam asked Ken. “Already?” Ken inquired. “Yes.” Sam blushed. “Okay then.” Ken smiled as he began leading her to the center of the dancefloor. The DJ began to play “Clarity” by Zedd featuring Foxes. "Look who it is!” Armin beamed when he saw them. “Hey! You don’t look too shabby!” Alana chuckled. “Hey man!” Nathaniel smiled. “You two look great!” Iris cooed. “Did you not get a date?” Alana asked. “Nah. Decided to come stag with Alexy.” Armin shrugged. “Ah, that’s sweet.” She smiled. “I hope we dance to a really romantic song...” She thought. “Ah... Yes... The DJ will most likely play “A Thousand Years” and Nathaniel will whisk you onto the dancefloor.” The voice in her head snickered. “I actually hope that happens!” She thought back. “A bunch of us girls came as a group! Melody is hanging out with Peggy. Kim is over there dancing with Violette. Priya has already teased Amber for not being asked by anyone. And Lysander and Castiel came stag.” Iris explained as she pointed everyone out. “Kim and Violette look great together! Almost like a couple!” Alana cheered. “I don’t see it.” Nathaniel shrugged. “I do.” Priya chuckled as she walked up to them.

“Nathaniel and Alana look great together.” Lysander pointed out as he and Castiel stood by a secluded set of chairs. “I suppose they do...” Castiel huffed. “Do you really love her?” Lysander quietly asked. “I think I do.” Castiel nodded. “Then you should be happy that she’s happy.” Lysander sighed. “I should have asked her... I should have taken my shot a while ago.” Castiel muttered. “But, you didn’t. You can’t dwell on what you should have done. Focus on what you’re going to do moving forward. Just be happy that you’re her friend.” Lysander reassured. “You’re not wrong... I just... Wish she wasn’t so out of reach.” Castiel sighed. “So, you’re actually pining over her?” Rosalaya asked as she and Leigh walked up to them. “He is.” Lysander nodded. “I mean... Whose to say that she and Nathaniel will be together forever? They’re not as established as Leigh and me. Maybe sometime down the road, you’ll have your chance.” Rosa shrugged as she put her hand on Castiel’s shoulder. The four of them looked at Nathaniel and Alana, who were laughing and making jokes with Sam, Kentin and Armin. The song “Man On A Wire” by The Script had begun to play. “Rosa, don’t give him false hope. The best thing for him would be to just be happy that she’s happy and they’re friends.” Leigh pointed out. “Literally what Lysander just said.” Castiel rolled his eyes.

“Nathaniel, Alana! You guys look amazing!” Peggy beamed as she, Melody and Sharon walked up to them. “Thank you! You three look sublime!” Alana cheered. “Not gonna lie, I kinda hope you two get Prom King and Queen.” Sharon mused. “It’d be nice if Amber doesn’t get it.” Peggy remarked. “I’m kinda hoping that I get it.” Melody muttered. “I don’t think I’ll get it. But I hope that whoever I voted for does.” Alana smiled. “Who did you vote for?” Sharon asked. “Rosalaya.” Alana replied. “She’d be a great Prom Queen.” Peggy nodded. “Nathaniel, who did you vote for?” Melody asked. “I’m not gonna say. I’d rather just see who won.” Nathaniel stated. “A very diplomatic answer from a very diplomatic person.” Sharon grinned. “A good quote for the next issue of the School Newspaper!” Peggy cooed. “It’ll be the final edition with you two running the club, isn’t it?” Alana asked. “Yeah! But our apprentices are gonna handle it well. I have faith in them.” Sharon assured. “Natasha and Nick are good kids.” Peggy agreed. “I kinda hope that you two get the crowns.” Kim grinned as she and Violette approached them. “I think you two would be great.” Violette chirped. “When will they announce the winners?” Alana asked. “Should be soon. They wanna do it before they begin the slow dances.” Sharon explained.

It wasn’t long before the DJ stopped the music and Mr. Faraize took to the stage. “Good evening everyone! I hope you are all having fun on this lovely night!” He greeted. Several students cheered “YEAH!” in response. “Good! Not too much fun I hope!” He chuckled before his face turned a little serious. “Historically, Sweet Amouris High School has never taken part in the tradition of “Prom Royalty”. Unlike most high schools, we’ve never seen the point in this kind of popularity contest. However, this year, we resolved to change that. Other schools throughout our country have adopted this American tradition as a form of pageantry and we’ve decided to join in on the “fun”. You seniors have worked very hard and earned more celebration than just a dance. So, while only four of you will be receiving tiaras and crowns tonight; Just know, you’re all kings and queens to us.” He began. Mr. Faraize motioned for the DJ to begin playing very low music as Boris brought out a rolling table with two sets of tiaras and crowns on it. Boris then handed a very large pink envelope to Mr. Faraize, who then took out and unfolded a large piece of paper. “Your Sweet Amouris High School Prom King and Queen Runners Up are Alana Roster and Nathaniel Jacott!” He announced. “YAY!”, “GO ALANA AND NATHANIEL!”, “YOU GUYS DESERVE IT!” several students cheered. “What?!” Alana gasped. “Mels! Nath! Go! Get crowned!” Sam huffed as she pushed the pair towards the stage. “Go! Leigh and I made the crowns and tiaras for this!” Rosalaya urged as the students made a path for the pair to get to the stage. Nathaniel took Alana’s arm and proudly escorted her to the stage. “Congratulations you two!” Boris cheered as they bowed their heads before them. He placed the silver crown and tiara on their heads with great care. “The tiaras look like something straight out of Barbie: Princess Charm School.” Alana thought. “The crowns look like they’re right out of Disney movies.” The voice in her head piped up. When Nathaniel and Alana took their places by Boris on the stage, Mr. Faraize looked at the paper in his hand. “Your Sweet Amouris High School Prom King and Queen are Castiel Veilmont and Rosalaya de Meilhan!” He announced. “Castiel is Prom King but I’m not Prom Queen! This was rigged!” Amber shouted. “I’m not gonna get that crown.” Castiel huffed. “Come on! You won, fair and square. Now get over yourself and get crowned!” Rosalaya glared daggers into him as she grabbed his hand and dragged him up to the stage. Once the gold crown and tiara were on Castiel’s and Rosalaya’s heads, Boris instructed the four of them to stand on stage and pose long enough for photos to be taken and the balloons to be dropped from the net. The DJ turned the music up and started playing “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons. “So? You and Leigh made the headwear? They look like you took them straight out of Disney and Barbie movies!” Alana laughed. “I was told to make them go with the theme of the school and that if this goes well, Leigh would be commissioned to make them every year for each class!” Rosa resounded. “They look fantastic Rosa!” Nathaniel mused. “I was hoping you two would be King and Queen. But, I’m happy that you guys at least got the Runners Up!” Rosa smiled. “I actually voted for you and Castiel to be King and Queen.” Alana happily shrugged. “You voted for me to be Prom King?” Castiel blushed. “Yeah, I thought it would be nice. The bad boy with the heart of gold getting some recognition for once.” Alana grinned.

The second they were allowed off stage, they took the opportunity to rejoin everyone. Student after student began to walk up to them and congratulate them. “I expect a picture perfect slow dance you two!” Sharon ordered Nathaniel and Alana. “I think we can make that happen!” Nathaniel blushed as he looked at Alana lovingly. “Hey, have any of you seen Amber?” Li asked as she walked up to them. “No. I haven’t even heard her since she got pissed about not winning.” Nathaniel shrugged. “She might be in the girls bathroom. I’ll go look.” Alana sighed as she walked towards the locker room. The sight that greeted her was absolutely horrific. “I THINK I’M GONNA VOMIT!” The voice in her head piped up. Amber was in the locker room. However, she was pressed up against the wall, lip locked with Armin. Alana quickly grabbed her phone, held it up high enough to get the pair into frame, quietly took a picture, slipped her phone back into her pocket and silently left the locker room. “Why did you take a picture of that sin?!” The voice in her head asked. “In case either of them piss me off in the future.” She thought back. “Are you gonna tell Nathaniel?” The voice in her head asked. “No. I’m not gonna tell Nathaniel that his best friend was in the locker room making out with his sister.” She thought back. “Why not?” The voice asked. “Because its not appropriate. If they feel like he needs to know, one of them will tell him.” She thought back. “Did you find her?” Nathaniel asked, almost a little frantic the second he saw her come out of the locker room. “Don’t worry. She’s just in there cleaning herself up and putting herself back together after her little tantrum. She’ll be fine.” Alana reassured him.

Shortly after Amber emerged from the locker room, she ran up to Nathaniel and demanded a dance from her brother. “NATHANIEL! Dance with me!” She whined. “Amber! I was gonna dance with Alana.” Nathaniel called back. “Give your sister a dance, we will have our slow dance before the night is done.” Alana smiled. “Does this mean I get a dance with the Runner Up?” Castiel smirked as he sauntered over to them. “No.” Nathaniel shot. “Nathaniel! He and I are JUST FRIENDS! It’d be like if Armin asked me for a dance! Go be a good brother and dance with your sister!” Alana huffed. Nathaniel gave her a look that said “Are you sure?”. “Yes.” Alana reassured him. “Okay. Amber, let’s go.” Nathaniel looked at his sister and sighed. “Shall we?” Castiel asked as he lead Alana to the dance floor. The DJ began to play “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon. “Is this really a song to dance to?” Alana pondered. “I would have thought you could dance to anything.” Castiel bantered. He pulled her closer to him and lead her into more of a waltz. “I mean... Its kind of weird for Nathaniel and his sister to dance to this song...” Alana replied. “So, its not weird for us to dance to it?” Castiel inquired. “Its not as if you’re interested in me, right? You’ve made it clear that you and I are just good friends. That the girls you’re actually into have bigger... Assets... And aren’t into pop music at all, like I am. Even if you were into me, you know you wouldn’t be able to be with me. I’m with Nathaniel.” Alana articulated. Castiel did everything in his power to hide the fact that Alana’s words were like a shot to the chest to him. “Yeah... I don’t like girls who sing to Taylor Swift!” He laughed. “Who told you!” Alana blurted out. “You did, just now!” His laughter boomed. “I like her music! Sue me!” Alana huffed. The song turned to “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars. “Anyway... Seriously, why did you nominate me for Prom King?” He asked as he looked deep into her eyes. “I wasn’t lying when I said what I said on stage. Cass, don’t get me wrong, you’re a jackass. But, underneath it all, you’re a really great guy with a very kind heart. Despite everything, even your own pride, you end up doing what’s right... Even if you need to be slapped first. Hell, you even put aside your differences with Nathaniel to help him get away from his father. Its obvious that you put the needs of the people you care about above your own. You made that crystal clear when Lysander got hurt. Everyone talks about how Rosa, Lysander, Alexy, Nathaniel, Sam and I all help people and show kindness... But, they never talk about how sweet and selfless you actually are. I thought you deserved some recognition.” She explained. The shot to Castiel’s chest was then worsened by one of Cupid’s arrows going through the hole. He quickly twirled her around so in an effort to keep her from seeing him blush. He looked up and noticed Nathaniel staring daggers into him. As the song came to a close, he stopped their dance and kissed her hand. “I’m really glad you’re my friend.” He muttered barely loud enough for her to hear. “Watch it Cass! You don’t want everyone finding out your secret!” Alana chuckled. She pulled out her phone, wrote up a text and sent it before rejoining Nathaniel’s side. Castiel felt his phone vibrate, pulled it out, read the message smiled and walked back over to Lysander. “I guess, she really will always be just out of reach for me.” He muttered. “I’m really glad you’re my friend, too.” - MR

“You and Castiel danced for at least two songs. He must have really wanted to talk! Although, I don’t know WHAT he would have wanted to talk to YOU about!” Amber huffed. “You know what, Amber? Everyone knows that you’ve been wanting to dance with him all night. You threw a fit a few minutes ago over the fact that he got crowned Prom King and you weren’t his Queen! Go and take charge of your life for once and ask him! The worst he can do is say “no”!” Alana blurted out. “YEAH!”, “YOU TELL HER ALANA!” several students cheered. “After he’s danced with you? I could never!” Amber scoffed. “What do you have to lose?! Its the end of the year and after graduation, you don’t know if you’ll ever see him again.” Alana raised an eyebrow. “Fine!” Amber huffed she gathered her confidence and walked over to Castiel. “What did you two talk about?” Nathaniel asked. “He just wanted more of an explanation as to why I nominated him for Prom King.” Alana flatly replied. “Why didn’t you nominate me?” He pushed a little further. “Because it would have been conceited for me to nominate my own boyfriend for it. I nominated Cass and Rosa for King and Queen and then Sam and Ken for the Runners Up.” She clarified. Nathaniel looked down, almost a little embarrassed. “I nominated us for King and Queen and Sam and Ken for the Runners Up.” He muttered. A wave of love crashed into Alana. “Oh my god! Nathaniel! You’re too cute! You know that, right?” She gushed. “Really? You just said that you thought nominating us was conceited.” Nathaniel sputtered. “Yeah, but you still did it! I thought you would have nominated someone else! Its cute!” Alana cooed. The couple looked at the dancefloor and watched Sam melt into Ken’s arms as the DJ played “Never Knew I Needed” by Ne-Yo. “I think they should have gotten some form of recognition.” Nathaniel commented. “Yeah, but at least they’re happy for us getting it.” Alana smiled. “Your sister is such a hard-ass. Even though she’s been with Ken all this time, its still weird to see her vulnerable.” Nathaniel observed. “Sam is only this way because she wants me to be the soft one out of the two of us. But it is good to see her be soft every once in a while.” Alana replied. “Come on Castiel! You danced with Alana!” Amber called as Castiel walked away from her. “Alana’s not a self absorbed, whiny, entitled, brat like you! Find someone else to dance with you!” Castiel shouted back. He continued walking in the direction of the courtyard. “Well... I was wrong. He did say something worse than “No.”... Whoops!” Alana shrugged. “I should go console her.” Nathaniel suggested. “No, Nathaniel. She’s a grown woman, she can handle this rejection. Aside from that, Li is here and can be there for her if need be.” Alana shook her head. “I mean... He’s not wrong.” Armin commented as he joined the pair. “Why don’t you ask her to dance? You’re her brother’s best friend, it might be considered doing him a favor.” Alana suggested. “Me? No.” Armin began. He turned to Nathaniel and put his hand on his shoulder. “No offense, man... But your sister is a beast.” Armin cringed. “That’s not what I saw earlier!” Alana thought. “Send Armin the pic of him kissing Amber!” the voice in her head cheered. “Nope! He hasn’t pissed me off!” Alana thought back. “Yeah... I know.” Nathaniel exhaustedly sighed. Alana rolled her eyes. “I still think it would be nice. Go take one for the team!” She urged. “Nah! But if you wanna dance, let me know! As it is, I think I’m gonna go see if Alexy needs me for anything!” Armin rushed off.

“Alright everyone! I haven’t seen our Runners Up formally take to the dance floor! It’s time to change that!” Boris announced as he took the mic from the DJ. “Mister DJ, we all know that Miss Roster and Mister Jacott are the “Big Couple On Campus”, so play them something extra special!” He requested, his voice sounding more flamboyant than usual. A spotlight was then turned to Nathaniel and Alana and followed them as they made their way to the center of the dancefloor. As the first notes to “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri began to play, Nathaniel stood before her and bowed. “May I have this dance, my queen?” He lovingly asked. Tears instantly came to Alana’s eyes. “You may, my king.” She purred as he took one hand in hers and placed his other hand on the center of the top of her back. She placed her other hand on his right shoulder. “FUCKING FINALLY!” The voice in Alana’s head shouted. “When did you learn how to dance like this?” She asked Nathaniel as he lead her into a very elegant slow dance. “My parents thought it would be proper for Amber and me to learn it.” He did his best to hide the pain of mentioning his parents. “And you?” He asked. “My two best friends are part of the aristocracy. Aunt Verity and Aunt Cosima convinced my mom to put Sam and me in the same classes as Viktor and Rini.” She explained. “I’ll have to thank Verity when I finally get a chance to formally meet her. And, maybe, I can thank your aunt Cosima at her grave one day.” he blushed. “That sounds like a really nice idea.” She admitted. As they continued to dance, the song changed to “A Thousand Years Part Two”, as if the DJ knew their dance needed to be longer. “Alana... I love you.” Nathaniel admitted as they swept across the dancefloor. “What?!” Alana breathed. She looked into his eyes, a combination of love and shock overcoming her facial expression. “Look, I know we’re only seventeen years old. That this is high school romance. That we could grow old and grow apart one day. But, I need to tell you, now. Melody Alana Roster, I love you. I don’t know what the future holds. And I can’t promise that you and I will always be together. But I love you. I’ve loved you almost since the first day you walked through that classroom door. And I love you now.” Nathaniel professed. The song changed to “This I Promise You” by *NSYNC while Alana gathered her thoughts and they prolonged their dance. She wanted to give him this massive speech of how much she’s loved him since her early days at Sweet Amoris. However, the only words that truly fit the moment were short and sweet. “Nathaniel... I love you too. I love you with everything I have.” She almost began weeping as she spoke. Her mind then turned to the idea of walking down the aisle to meet him and become his wife. “Either you become a Jacott, or he becomes a Roster!” The voice in her head piped up. “I have a feeling that, if he and I do get married, he’ll become a Roster.” She quickly thought back. As the songs ended, the two shared a deep, romantic, kiss. “I love you, my sweet Melody.” He purred. “I love you too, my darling Nathaniel.” She cooed.

“Alright, sis! Take your stuff back. Ken and I are getting out of here!” Sam announced as she stormed the dancefloor and handed Alana her purse back to her. “You could have waited for us to get off of the dancefloor?! You didn’t see me ruining YOUR moment!” Alana exasperated. “Yeah, well... I think its high time I go make Ken a man!” Sam announced. “You also didn’t need to announce that to the whole school! You don’t see Rosa and Leigh announcing their “after prom plans” to everyone!” Alana barked. “I know! But I knew it would make you two uncomfortable! Let’s go Ken!” Sam laughed as she started walking out of the gym. “Sorry guys! You two looked amazing and it was a lot of fun!” Ken shrugged before he followed Sam out. Alana looked down for a minute. “What’s wrong?” Nathaniel asked. “You know... We could take the offer to get a hotel room...” Alana suggested as her face became a deep shade of red. “No.” Nathaniel shook his head. “Why not?” Alana nervously inquired. “I don’t want your first time to be in some random hotel room. Alana, I have the chance to make your first time as special as possible... And I’m going to do exactly that. You deserve it.” He sweetly smiled as he caressed the side of her face with his fingertips. “Oh Nathaniel...” Alana breathed. “I love you Alana. When I finally lay you down, I want you to enjoy every second of it. Even if it means I end up doing all the cliché stuff to turn my apartment into the most romantic place in the world.” He purred.

As the night drew to a close, Alana couldn’t keep her mind off of the idea of making love with Nathaniel. She wanted it. She knew she wanted it. And she knew that she wanted her first time to be with him. Out of all of the other boys she’d ever met, and between him and Viktor, she wanted to give herself to Nathaniel completely. “Maybe after graduation?” the voice in her head asked. “I’m not sure. But I hope its soon.” She thought back. Nathaniel took her back to her apartment, only for the two of them to discover a note taped to the front door. “Mom says that she’s sleeping at Agatha’s tonight. She and Seraphina got into a bit of a drinking game and they both basically lost. I’ve got the apartment to myself.” She explained as Nathaniel gave her a questioning look. “Well, that’s almost convenient.” He blushed. “You could stay the night, rather than walk all the way back to your apartment...” She suggested. “I could... But, Blanche is probably missing me... And I would have to sleep in nothing but my underwear...” Nathaniel replied. “You could go home in the morning after I make us breakfast. I’m sure Blanche has enough food and water to get through to tomorrow... And, its not like its the first time we’ve been in bed together with you in nothing but your underwear and me in pajamas... Its just, this time would be under much better circumstances.” Alana urged. “Societal pressure would dictate....” Nathaniel began. “As it is, its also not like we’d be doing anything sexy anyway! I’m too tired to give informed consent! We’d just be sleeping in the same bed and waking up together! At most, we’ll end up spooning or maybe getting in a couple of kisses! And that’s IF Sylvester doesn’t decide to sleep on top of us!” Alana nervously chuckled. Nathaniel thought for a couple of minutes. “Alright. But, next time, you’re sleeping at my place.” He yawned. “Of course!” Alana smiled as she let out a long yawn.

Several memories passed through Alana’s mind as she held her sleeping boyfriend in her arms. The memory of the day they met. The first time he made her heart beat fast. Their argument when she exposed the abuse his father put him through. The day she helped him get Blanche. The hug he gave her when she slipped and fell out of the tree in the park and was caught by Castiel. The party at Iris’ house. The attempt at a double date with Rosa and Leigh. Their first kiss in the Sweet Amoris High School library. The fresh memories of Prom. The memories then shifted into hopeful visions of their future. The first time they make love. Going to college together. Introducing him to all of her family in Scotland and Ireland. Becoming his wife. One vision finally pushed Alana into the realm of dreams and sleep... The vision of herself, one day, holding their newborn.

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This technically covers episode 39. Giselle Baudelaire is a reference to Giselle from Enchanted, and the Baudelaire family from A Series of Unfortunate Events.

I know that Prom King and Queen and the runners up are typically an American thing... But, I wanted to include them in this chapter. I was gonna make Lysander Prom King, but I figured Castiel would be more popular according to High School Hierarchy.

The cultural center tower that’s mentioned in the Dress Shopping section is what ultimately becomes The Black Tower.

Lynne coughing sets up her getting sick and having to leave the country for treatment.

Antoine Moulin is a slight reference to Moulin Rouge and Marie Antoinette.

Natasha and Nick (Peggy’s and Sharon’s apprentices) are also Marvel references. Just as I have Peggy and Sharon referencing Peggy and Sharon Carter, Natasha references Natasha Romanoff and Nick references Nick Fury.

Songs directly mentioned in this chapter: “Clarity” by Zedd ft. Foxes “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri “Man On A Wire” by The Script “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars “Never Knew I Needed” by Ne-Yo “A Thousand Years Part 2″ by Christina Perry Ft Steve Kazee “This I Promise You” by *NSYNC Honorable Mention: “When The Stars Go Blue” by Tim McGraw I wanted to bring this song up, but couldn’t find the right place for it.

I was honestly considering making that final paragraph more nsfw... But I decided against it and wanted to make it more sweet and romantic. With the way the story goes, every last thing that Alana envisions for their future comes to pass.

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lionydoorin · 1 year

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On the train and wanted to give you some blorbo time. When do you think Tara realized she wasn’t straight? (Also, unrelated: do I really have to say that “Songs About Death” by The Wonder Years is Carpenter sisters-coded?)

(i loved songs about death and i agree it is very carpenter sisters coded <3)

i like this idea i've seen before here on tumblr of woodsboro being a small, religious town. tara's parents getting married for convention right before they graduated high school, as soon as sam was born, and, with it, the carpenters being the kind to try to look like your perfect american family. this would make the impact of sam and tara's dad leaving even harder, because this dream in particular was ruined and the façade fell and shtuff. but anyway-

i believe queerness wasn't something they spoke about, at all. it was only the whole "women are meant to be with men" and "men are meant to be with women" and that's it.

as a child, tara didn't have much of a reference. she only had her bedtime stories about princes and princesses, male and female toys to make husbands and wives and the little dollhouses. she never thought much of it.

sometimes, when she was on her own, she did mix up and make different pairings, such as putting two female barbies to sleep on the same bed. she thought to herself that it was simply because she had less ken's to play around, but she never treated any of them as males and kept them as couples.

when her dad left, of course, her mother decided to not give a shit about anything and sam changed, so tara was left to discover who she was all on her own, leaning onto her friends for support as they all navigated growing up together.

tara and amber, in particular, had always been inseparable. you know, the whole childhood best friends thing: both were super clingy and amber was totally possessive and overprotective of tara, her best friend, and would push any kids that tried to bully her from the playgrounds.

they were the kind to always walk holding hands, the kind to share lunch and sit together and have almost daily sleepovers that they didn't even need permission to, because their parents wouldn't notice nor mind them missing.

tara always loved her; something childish and pure, an innocent love that she had never even thought about.

but puberty came, and talks about who's cute and who's not, and first kisses, and first dates and boyfriends and girlfriends became a natural thing in her group. tara was never unsure of her attraction to men. she knew she could see herself dating one or getting married to one – but women were always a tricky subject, one she could recognize, but chose not to tackle.

everyone felt a little bit jealous of her best friend starting to get attention, right?

amber was always more of an extrovert between the two of them; with that, it was natural that she had made a lot of new friends, and, of course, people would fall for her charm pretty easily. and it bothered tara endlessly.

she thought it was natural to feel her chest tighten at the sight of amber laughing at something bethany from her film club said. to not want to share her best friend's attention with jimmy from chem lab, who everyone knew had the biggest crush on amber, because she was afraid she'd want to hang out with him instead of her.

she'd ignore the way her heart would be crushed at the mere thought of amber liking him back, of her having her first kiss with him, of her ever actually dating him.

(not because she wanted amber, but because she was her best friend, and she didn't want to lose her, of course. she didn't like girls. not like that.)

until mindy came out, and tara was vehemently supportive. they were at the meeks household, and mindy started talking about her experience, about how she had butterflies in her stomach whenever a pretty girl smiled at her, how her cheeks flushed whenever she thought about kissing one, and holding one, and calling someone their girlfriend.

it all felt way too familiar for tara's liking.

she became more self aware after that; of how she loved playing with amber's soft, dark hair, how she felt so safe cuddling with her whenever they watched something, how she'd blush when amber gave her a compliment and called her pretty.

how she thought amber was the prettiest girl she had ever seen.

#i almost made this too long cause i wanted to talk about tara and amber's first kiss but i talk A Lot lmfao #i do think she realized it in the unrequited phase #and they never Dated here. just had the homoerotic teenage friendship 🫶#tara carpenter bisexual queen making her barbies kiss #tara carpenter #tamber #scream #ma talks scream #ask #kirbycarpenter

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innytoes · 6 months

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You have one of those 12 foot skeletons in your yard and you caught me trying to take selfies with it / Sweet Tarts

Also for @invisibleraven who asked for the exact same thing. Who knew this prompt had Carrie/Reggie vibes?

When the Wilsons celebrated, they went hard. Their birthday blow-outs were legendary from the time Carrie had been in kindergarten. Their Fourth of July drones show (fireworks were so 90s) was epic and set to their favourite music. Christmas? Their mansion was covered in so many lights they had their own generator, and every room had a Christmas tree. (The one in Carrie's room was all pink, of course.)

So of course they went all out for Halloween, too. It was pretty hard to convert a sleek white modern mansion into a spooky old Victorian house, so instead they went all out with other kinds of decorations. Like the skeletons that hung out in front of the large windows on the second floor, having cocktails. Or the ghosts hanging from the trees and railings. Or the spooky lights and glowing orbs in the pool. Or the gazillion decorative pumpkins around the place. (Again, the ones in Carrie's room were pink.)

This year's new showstopper, though, was a twelve foot skeleton that her dad brought home. He showed it off, jazz hands and all, like the dork he was, and she could only barely hide her smile even as she eye-rolled at him.

"Not cool enough?" Dad asked her. "Don't worry, I thought of that."

And then he pulled out a pair of giant novelty sunglasses from somewhere. That got her to crack, and she laughed, which made her dad beam, which made her feel gooey inside. Out in public, they had to be perfect, and cool, and flawless, but when it was just the two of them, they could goof around and be dorks.

Now, while all of October was Go Hard On The Spooky Stuff, their Halloween basically had two big nights. The first was their Big Halloween Bash, where dad invited all his famous friends and people he worked with and Carrie got to invite some of her friends as long as they all promised to be cool.

The second, which deep down Carrie liked much better, was Trick or Treating. Because what was the point of living in the rich neighbourhood if not to show off all your badass decorations and costumes and spooky playlists and wow kids with amazing treats.

Full sized candy bars? Pah, those were for the old money losers down the street. Carrie and her dad got custom made edible crystals. Kids could pick out their own colour and shape, and eat something that looked like it shouldn't be eaten. Did you want a neon green orb, or a jagged piece of quartz, or even a candy beetle encased in 'amber'?

Carrie, of course, made sure to grab some in all her Candi's colours and put them aside. (And a few pink ones for herself.)

But the big holiday bash had come and gone, and trick or treating wasn't until tomorrow, so what the hell was this guy doing in their yard?

"Aren't you a little old to be trick or treating?" she asked as she flung the door open. Usually, if someone was lurking around like that, she'd call security, but this guy didn't seem to be paparazzi or a crazed fan who wanted to murder her dad. Also, she'd shoved her taser in the pocket of her cardigan before opening the door. (It was pink. And bedazzled.)

The boy, who seemed to be about her age, yelped and flailed, nearly dropping his crappy little phone. "Sorry, I'm sorry!" he stammered. "I thought nobody was home!"

Carrie raised one perfectly plucked eyebrow. "Is that supposed to make it better?" she asked in her nastiest mean-girl-voice.

He flushed, looking ashamed of himself. Suddenly, even with the leather jacket, he seemed a lot smaller. "I'm sorry," he said miserably. "It's just that this is the first time I've seen one of these giant skeletons in real life and I really wanted to take a selfie with it. I mean, he's wearing sunglasses and everything."

He looked so sad, like a kicked puppy, and really, she couldn't begrudge him too much. Their skeleton was pretty awesome. And he was pretty cute.

"You're never going to get all of him in frame with you like that," she rolled her eyes, grabbing her keys and demonstratively pulling the door closed behind her so he couldn't slip inside in case this was just a ruse.

She made sure to keep her hand on her taser as she passed him, but he just gaped at her. When she was far enough away to get all of the skeleton into the picture, she pulled out her phone. "Smile!" she said, and on instinct, he did. She snapped a picture, and when he realised what happened, he beamed, begging for another one.

She had to admit that the one hugging Skeletor's leg (yes, her dad had named their giant skeleton Skeletor like a massive dork) was pretty funny. As was the one where he was bowing down before it. And pretending to run away from it.

They had a little photo shoot for like two minutes, before he seemed to run out of ideas, and thanked her profusely, before moving to leave.

"Hey!" she shouted after him, and he froze in his tracks. "You have to give me your number so I can send these to you!" Okay, so he was cute but not very bright. She could work with that.

He looked a little flustered, but gave her his number to put in her phone. She sent him a test text, and his entire face lit up when he saw the first picture appear on his own screen.

And if maybe she texted him again the next day inviting him over to try one of their gourmet crystals and see the whole yard done up right for trick or treating, well, she just wanted to share the holiday spirit.

#carriexreggie #julie and the phantoms #carrie wilson #reggie peters #fanfic #I wrote a thing #halloween #oh to have a giant skeleton with sunglasses #reggie being a himbo and carrie being like: guess I'm into that #just picturing trevor and carrie's entire hallway filled with like 50 boxes of custom made gourmet candy #they have treasure chests on tables on the porch with the 'gems' in them for the kids to pick from #because fuck those old money people down the street they're gonna Win Halloween and every other holiday #(for the purpose of this fic Carrie maybe does not live in a house with barbed wire and a gate lol.)#also they make sure to compliment all the kids who are clearly Not From Around Here in their homemade or cheap costumes #because again fuck the old money gatekeeping assholes from down the street

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jaxteller87 · 4 months

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Something new part 2

It was a few weeks after the game and the party. The tension from recent events hung in the air like cigar smoke, but in the middle of it all, I found myself drawn to Amber. It was a feeling that kind of snuck up on me, reflecting the thoughts of friends and family, especially my mother, Gemma. As I walked onto the back porch, I felt a wave of happiness wash over me. I felt a smile grow across my lips as I saw Amber playing with her dogs. I grabbed myself a seat and sat next to her in her wheelchair. I couldn’t help but tease her about revealing our plans to Donna. “So I heard you spilled the beans about my grand plan for our future.” “Of course I did,” Amber blurted out with a laugh. She kept her attention on the dogs, trying to hide her blushed cheeks from me, but I could tell she was as red as a strawberry. “Yeah, Ope just got done filling me in on the parental details. Correct me if I’m wrong, but it was not one, not two, not even three, but five kids. Is that right?” I reached down to pet the playful furbabies, keeping my tone neutral. I heard her let out a little snort as she tried not to laugh. “Um, yeah,” she paused. I could hear the strain in her voice, trying to suppress her excited embarrassment. “That, uh, that sounds like it could be along the lines of something I said…” “I see, I see,” I sat back in the lawn chair, “I thought we said it was going to be more like two kids?” “Yeah,” Amber said mischievously, “But to get to five, you have to have to get to two first.” “Well, the math checks out; I can’t fault you there.” “It’s just…” she hesitated. “What?” I put my hand on her thigh. “How do you know that you want to have kids with me at all? I mean, look at us; we’re still kids ourselves,” she grabbed my hand and stared down at the ground as if she was expecting not to like my response. “I don’t know. I just know. You know?” I replied, realizing how silly I sounded. She laughed, I laughed, and we sat there, watching the dogs playing in the yard. Five kids? I thought. I’m going to need to start working some overtime at the shop if I was going to turn this dream into a reality. Many years later Amber pov Many years had passed, and the Teller household had evolved into a place of warmth and familial bliss. In the kitchen, I found myself with little Mary in her bouncer, cooing away in her own little world. The joy she brought was infectious, and I couldn’t help but share her wholesome, happy moments with her. As we played, I noticed her eyes locked onto something behind me, but it didn’t break her out of her joyous little mood. “Your daddy’s behind me making funny faces, isn’t he?” I teased, watching as our baby exploded with her contagious giggles. “Hi,” I chuckled as Jax made his presence known, his lips planting a gentle kiss on the top of my head. “How are my girls today?” he asked, a genuine smile stretched across his face as he scooped up our giggling bundle of joy. “Good. The first day on my own with her went well,” I replied. “I just made a crockpot meal. I hope that’s okay,” I added, smiling at the man who had been by my side through thick and thin. My soulmate. And so, that’s what we did – had a quiet night in. Jax carried little Mary to the living room after her first feeding of the evening and gently rocked her to sleep before laying her down for bed. Everything was perfect; we nestled on the sofa with his strong arms wrapped around me. Life felt precious in those moments — a pinnacle of love, shared laughter, and the quiet beauty of a family content in each other’s company. As we embraced the simplicity of that evening, I couldn’t help but fall asleep, reminiscing on the journey that brought us here to a life that felt not only complete but also brimming with the promise of more heartwarming memories ahead.

#jax teller fanfiction #jax teller x disabled reader #jax x oc

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unplanned-parenthood · 11 months

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I WANT TO HEAR YOUR AMBER LORE SOOOO BAD. she is my everything i agree with all of your takes on her so so so hard you put it into words

i was definitely exaggerating when i said Amber Lore but i do think abt her past a lot....most of it is related to her upbringing (shocking in the show where absolutely everyone has smthing going on w their family) AND her being a lesbian because lesbian amber is so real to me. this is very messy and barely coherent but. you asked so you shall receive. under the cut though bc its like. a lot

born and raised in boston (thanks mrs. dunnek for being born there) by her mom, really good relationship with her but they didn’t /see/ each other too often bc mamalakis worked a pretty demanding corporate job (she is just as ambitious as amber, yeah, except she worries about how others see her quite more, aka she Will play nice to get what she needs) so amber was by herself a lot since a very young age. she has no siblings and no connection with her immediate or extended family (neither from her mom’s or dad’s side, dad’s mostly because he was never in the picture)

her mom being a very successful and hard-working woman certainly made amber internalize lots of stuff and add lots of expectations to what shes supposed to be slash what shes supposed to do and mamalakis was never demanding or strict w amber but amber 100% was with herself and she was definitely one of those kids who cried and threw up when they didnt get perfect marks LOL

she has always been very blunt + obsessed with being right + smarter than anyone else so she was pretty much by herself even outside of her home but she spent a lot of the time in the local library. she read pretty much everything available and the only ones that didnt bore her were medical books (i can perfectly imagine a little amber liking how grotesque some of the graphics/pictures were lol…my princess)

adding onto the ‘mostly by herself thing’ she pretty much did not have friends for most of her childhood/teenhood but she had a small group of girls she used to hang out and go shopping with during hs, they were all pretty fake and disliked each other though. amber knew that but she didnt care, she just took advantage of it so she at least had someone to drag with her when there were group projects and stuff (if she was going to be gifting away perfect marks she would much rather it be a known evil, you know)

she did her undergrad, premed, um whatever its called in boston uni. last time i did research i settled on biomed, i think? but i could also see her pursuing something in the psychology field…

in uni is when she deliberately started trying to get boyfriends and stuff, even if she knew she didnt need a boyfriend or anything bc her mom didnt have one and she was fine but she still went out of her way to date like every boy out there. just to feel something and like prove herself she could, and maybe just become the image of the perfect daughter her mom deserves (the one who her mom definitely would never push her to become but rather the one amber made in head. she really put her mom on a pedestal A Lot) she didnt like any of the guys she dated though, and most of them werent very Nice either (plays the love and respect scene over and over in my brain) but she just shrugged it off at the fact that maybe relationships just werent for her

but she was like Very Wrong bc while she was out there having meaningless relationships w guys she was growing closer with her roommate lol…who was pretty much her first Real friend and whom she didnt get along very well at first bc she slacked off a lot and was constantly asking for her help but she was also very sweet, had a nice smile and took care of amber whenever she was sick (which was a lot, i think she has seasonal allergies and gets lots of colds) also completely unrelated but she did have brown hair and dark brown eyes :) (you see where this is going) they never dated although her roommate definitely liked her that way but also comphet is a bitch and when amber realized she might actually want to pursue something w her she started dating even More Guys and started avoiding her roommate and everything. she realized somewhere along the 3rd year or so of being roommates (they stuck together even after their freshman year, yeah <3) that she liked her but it wasnt until her last year there that her roommate confronted her about it and it was a whole fight and everything. amber might or might not have said that their friendship would never last bc she didnt want distractions once she started med school and...it was Bad. after that amber stopped dating altogether up until…you know who. absolutely not a coincidence she ended with the one guy who is absolutely repressed and dealing with the comphet demons too (i do think they loved each other though, as much as they could. but they were both trying to fill the gap of the one thing they could never have. and as i have said lesbians and gay men will always literally go and have the most tragic romances in TV)

and. well. after that it pretty much went downhill for my princess. she moved to missouri for med school (canonically WUSM!) and…her mom died, car accident, um. the narratives im so sorry. it was Bad she struggled a lot and she was now by herself for sure but she worked her ass off to get her degree because she knew her mom wouldnt have wanted to see her giving up. then she moved to NJ to do her residencies (a little closer to what she used to call home, but not close enough to make her depressed) and then pretty much what happens in the show :-)

in a happier timeline she comes to terms w her sexuality and tries to connect w her old roommate again and she is like head of radiology in some prestigious hospital. or maybe head of the second diagnostics department to ever exist. she deserves it.

#thank you for asking. i love her so much #inbox #amber volakis

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outivv · 1 year

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Hii! I'd love for you to do this! But don't worry if you don't have time or don't want to! No worries :]

Could you do a super cute platonic date between the reader and Amber? Amber and reader decide to go and walk around Monstadt, having cute shopping moments and a cute lunch scene perhaps?

Amber is super cheerful and happy throughout and maybe towards the end gets a little tired and sleeps next to the reader afterwards under a tree in the end

-☔ anon

Synopsis: cute date with amber!!

Warnings: food, and not proofread

Character: amber

Pronouns for reader: gender neutral/ not mentioned

A/n: hello hello!! Oh my god, my first anon :]]. I’ll have to make an anon list soon. Anyways, this is super cute!! I don’t usually write for amber, so it was a really nice change of pace. Anyways, hope you enjoy!! And have a great rest of your day, take care of yourself :]

The sun warmed your skin, as you waited for amber outside of her apartment. The refreshing wind of mondstadt cooling your skin on this perfect day. “Hey! [name]!” The main door to the apartment swung open harshly, as ambers energetic, and booming voice could be heard calling your name. You smiled, matching the warmth of the sun as you greeted her, “your dress looks gorgeous by the way.” Your compliment made her blush a bit, “aww thanks, eula got it for me last week, and I thought this would be the perfect occasion to test it out!!”

You nodded in agreement, before linking arms and saying, “well then, shall we?” and heading towards the main street of mondstadt. Walking in and out of shops, trying on clothes, and complimenting each other after each time you came out of the changing room. Your hands soon became full of bags, upon bags, your wallets now feeling unsurprisingly lighter.

With the little mora you had left, you got lunch at good hunter, after smelling the moth watering food that they were cooking. “Ooo have you tried the chicken mushroom skewers they make here? They’re sooo goood!!” Amber says as you look over the menu “really? I think it’s hard to beat the ones Kaeya makes.” You said with a giggle. Amber tilted her head, in fake thought, “hmm, I mean true but believe me the ones here are do delicious!!” She days before ordering some, amongst many other dishes.

“Amber… this is so much food” you say looking at the table full of food, “how are we gonna eat all this” amber looks at you while already stuffing her mouth full of food, half the food on the plate already gone. You snort at her, before starting on one of your dishes. After somehow finishing your food, you sit back in your chair, stomach full, “I feel I could go into a good coma…” you groan, amber nods along, with a sigh. You thank sara for the food, and of course tip her (always tip your waiters kids)!!

You’re making your way back to ambers house, before suddenly a whine can be heard behind you “ughhh my feet hurt, is it ok if we sit for a while?” Amber says like a child, you chuckle a bit at her, before sitting with her on a bench. You sit with her and people watch for a bit, before you feel a weight in your shoulder. You look over to see amber snoring softly, your face softens, as you move some hair out of her face. You decide to let her sleep for a bit, not having the heart to wake her up just yet, enjoying this peaceful moment after an eventful day.

#this is so cute Omg very very proud of this >:)#genshin impact #genshin headcanons #genshin x reader #genshin fluff #genshin x gender neutral reader #genshin imagines #genshin amber #amber x y/n #amber x reader #amber x you #amber imagined #amber fluff #amber genshin impact #eula #kaeya

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girl4music · 1 year

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A character study analysis -

Why Tara Maclay matters

youtube

"Now I’ve never been much of a shipper. I think the first ship I ever telegraphed was Harry Potter and Cho Chang, and while I was a little sad they didn’t work things out, I never hated Harry/Ginny. And I accept it as the natural progression of their story. But when I was a kid watching ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ for the first time about 10 years after it first aired there was one ship I fell in love with and was willing to die on a hill for. ... This isn’t going where you think.

I) My Unnecessarily Long Backstory

Very quickly Willow became my favourite character. I’d loved and adored Sarah Michelle Gellar in just about everything I saw her in beforehand but when I finally got around to watching the show that made her famous, I strangely preferred her more as these gals. I’m more receptive to Buffy as a character these days and can appreciate her performance but younger me was all about Willow. Alyson Hannigan’s work continues to impress me with how she transformed a shy bumbling nerd into a powerful confident witch across seven seasons without once making me feel like the characterisation was betrayed. It’s still a marvel to me how Alyson can effortlessly be adorably hilarious in one scene and heartbreakingly emotional in the next. One of the reasons I kinda, sorta love the magic-is-a-drug storyline in Season 6 and the subsequent Dark Willow thing is the strength of this gal’s performance. So now I’ve hopefully established my love and devotion to this character and can convey that if they were going to put her into a relationship with anyone other than me and have me accept it… said partner had better be the perfect match for her.

Enter Oz. Oz represents a good example of how to create a love interest that exists to put someone in a relationship without feeling like you’re actually doing that. He complimented Willow and his very presence helped her become a better person. Unfortunately by Season 4 Seth Green had grown creatively dissatisfied and scheduled conflicts with another film meant he had to be written out only six episodes into the season. As heart-wrenching as Oz and Willow’s break-up was, it proved beneficial in the long run.

Amber Benson was introduced the same season as a character called Tara Maclay. She was not intended to be a love interest for Willow outright since although Joss Whedon had envisioned one of the main cast turning out to be gay, he was actually leaning more towards Xander being the candidate. The main reason for Tara’s introduction was because Willow had become significantly more powerful over the four seasons and thus was no longer able to convincingly be put in danger the way she used to. So they needed a new character that could serve as their resident distressed damsel. Amber Benson almost wasn’t cast because, well, Joss Whedon has his body preferences. Marti Noxon, however, could see that the vulnerability she brought to the character was what they ultimately needed. Through a combination of convenient timing and the surprising chemistry between the two actresses, their friendship was eventually written to have them become a couple. In what became a shocking move for the series the episode ‘New Moon Rising’, in which Oz returns, ended with him and Willow parting on good terms and Willow choosing to stay with Tara. To say this was met with an uproar would be an understatement. Willow and Oz have been a popular pairing and in the far less enlightened early 2000’s the idea that Willow would not only turn down Oz but do so in favour of another woman… To cut a long story short, Amber Benson was met with so many nasty comments that she nearly left the show. But, of course, she didn’t. And I want to highlight just how impressive it was that this character was despised for no reason other than the fact that Willow chose her over Oz. And then at the end of Season 6 when she was written out, there was even more backlash. While I love Oz it’s impossible for me to ignore that his successor became just as, if not more popular, and her successor was the most despised character in the entire franchise. Seriously, there are Xander fans, Wesley fans, even the odd Riley fan. I will be very surprised if this video reveals the rare thing known as a Kennedy fan. Tara was that tough an act to follow.

II) The Triumph of Representation

The Willow and Tara relationship was not the first time a queer romance had been depicted on TV and nor was Buffy the first series to have an established character suddenly come out after been assumed straight beforehand. But compare the sitcom Ellen in which the title character came out alongside her actress and was met with a lot of criticism for the tone shifts that followed with people such as Elton John telling Ellen to “shut up about being gay and start being funny again”, Buffy was notable for not having a big coming out moment or a very special episode about homophobia. It also stood out for avoiding the other end of the spectrum. The Willow and Tara relationship was treated with the same grace and seriousness as any other on the show. Incidental and un-stereotypical. It was positive representation without beating you over the head with it. Queer viewers could see themselves in either character and find comfort and relatability. Straight viewers could see another perspective and learn to normalise the idea. The relationship had an uphill struggle behind-the-scenes with restrictions on what the characters could or couldn’t be shown doing. Forcing the writers to use magic as a metaphor for exploring their sexuality. They didn’t share their first on-screen kiss until Season 5’s ’The Body’ after eighteen episodes as a couple. But despite those restrictions they still stood out as being a same-sex couple on a major show, in which they were accepted as a vital part of the main cast. Both powerful and fallible in their own ways and existing as independent characters in their own right rather than tokens there to meet a quota. And while there was obviously a bigger focus on Willow at first, since she’d been on the show since it started, the writers quickly began to explore Tara’s character in interesting ways.

III) A Different Kind of Empowerment

The 90’s were the era of aggressive, in-your-face girl power in which women declared they could do exactly what the men did and asserted their strength in a multitude of ways. Buffy expressed her strength through physical prowess and razor sharp wit. Willow expressed hers through intelligence and, later, unrivalled magic powers. Cordelia and Anya likewise stood out for their unfiltered, independent attitudes towards life that were then refined through character development to being unafraid to do the right thing. Tara stood out by being defined through her kindness and empathy. She’s introduced as the only Wiccan at a college meeting who listens to Willow and validates her interest in pursuing more advanced spell casting. She then acts as Willow’s guide and mentor to help her improve her powers, remaining an understanding and empathetic teacher the whole time. Even when meeting Oz, she’s understanding of the idea that he and Willow might get back together despite how much pain this would cause her. Throughout the series kindness and compassion would be her defining characteristics. And showing that she is far more than just ‘the nice character’, her first episode establishes that she is also a powerful witch in her own right, providing Willow with enough assistance to fight off The Gentlemen. This helped set her apart from, say, Dawn, who ended up in distress so much the show itself had to lampshade it. Tara was given just enough competency that her ending up in trouble was never annoying, and she justified her presence in the main cast. This made her an easy character to root for and accept.

IV) Tara as Her Own Person

Once she was established as Willow’s girlfriend the show set about developing her into her own person so as not to remain a satellite character. The Season 5 episode ‘Family’ properly delves into her backstory revealing that she comes from a history of abuse and has been brought up to think that she’ll turn into a demon when she reaches adulthood. This story serves to put the audience on Tara’s side where we see that she fears Willow and the others will reject her if they discover this. We’re shown what she’s had to put up with from her family, explaining her shyness and vulnerability, and thus endearing her to us all. So in the end, when the demon thing is revealed to be just a lie to keep the women in the family in line, the episode celebrates that Tara can remain within the main cast. Also her relatives disapproval of her interest in magic and witchcraft is an effective parallel to her sexuality, making the ‘family of choice’ theme very relatable. The episode ends with an affirmation that Tara is an essential part of the group and the show.

But I’d argue that the most significant turning point in her character development isn’t actually from an episode that centers around her. Season 5’s ’The Body’ is considered one of the best episodes of the entire series and it is important for Tara not just because it features her and Willow’s first on-screen kiss. This right here gives Tara a role that only she can fill in the show. Someone who has experienced the loss of her mother at a young age and can relate to what Buffy, and indeed Dawn, are feeling. And as someone who didn’t know Joyce as well as the others, she is able to be the one who can hold it together and be a rock for everyone. We’re normally used to seeing Willow reassuring Tara or being the stronger partner, but this allows Tara to fill that role too. Putting them on an equal footing. In the next episode ‘Forever’ Tara establishes her identity as someone with a different perspective from Willow in what would be a recurring source of conflict for them. Willow - the witch who came to the craft late - always wants to bend the rules and push the limits of what she can accomplish while Tara - the natural witch - knows and respects these limits and doesn’t like meddling with the natural order. Conflict between them is further explored in the episode ‘Tough Love’, highlighting another part of Tara that distinguishes her as her own person. The inner-belief that Willow sees her as just an experiment and will go back to boys as soon as she loses interest in her. And while this isn’t great for Willow to hear, it serves to reaffirm that Tara is her own person with her own thoughts and fears and not just an extension of her girlfriend. She is then the one who is targeted by Glory and has her mind… well I don’t know what the technical term is but because of that Tara then reveals the season’s big secret to the villain. That scene may be a little clunky but the act itself further puts Tara on an equal footing with the main cast. Things now only happen because of her that can only be done by her. A conflict set up by her disharmony with another character that then leads the turning point towards the finale and now she becomes the secondary part of the main tension. It’s not just ‘will they protect Dawn and stop Glory?’ But now ‘will they save Tara too?’. And once it happens in the big battle Tara contributes in a way that reminds the audience that she is also a powerful witch just like Willow.

That’ll continue into the next season. So Season 5 ends with Tara no longer being ‘just Willow but less powerful’, but an important character who serves the narrative.

V) Character Development

The two-part episodes that opens Buffy’s first season on the UPN network is the best season premiere across the entire series. Beginning what is my second favourite Buffy season after three. Tara is one of four characters preparing a dark spell to resurrect Buffy from the dead after she sacrificed herself at the end of Season 5. Initially on-board with the idea we see that aforementioned conflict come into play when it’s clarified how Willow has been hiding some of the darker parts of the spell because Tara is the one who would question her. And one of the things I love about this episode is how it shows Tara rising to the occasion. In a crisis where Willow was too drained to be their heavy hitter, Tara steps it up and demonstrates how she’s a force to be reckoned with too. And I don’t want to gloss over this badass moment either. Like in ’The Body’ we’re shown that when Buffy is M.I.A it is Tara who the group really needs. She keeps everyone together and ensures they stay on track. And what is the next significant development in her story this season?

Tara is the first one to become aware of Willow’s increasing problems with magic use and what happens next becomes a fascinatingly ironic twist in the tale where Willow erases Tara’s memory of their arguments just in time for the musical episode in which Tara gets an entire song to herself titled ‘Under Your Spell’. While a double-meaning to the memory erasing Willow did, it’s mainly about how their relationship has helped her come out of her shell and shine to her full potential. Besides designating her as important enough to have her own solo the song serves as an important next step in something very hard she has to do. In the episode ’Tabula Rasa’, when Willow’s problems become impossible to ignore and it’s clear she can’t be reasoned with, Tara breaks up with her. Despite how much it hurts her to leave and the cold reaction she gets from Dawn in response, she walks out because she now knows her own self-worth and understands her right to be treated with respect. At a point in the series where Buffy and Willow falls so low they resort to using the ones they care about, Xander and Dawn just hurt people, and Giles abandons someone who needs his guidance, Tara has reached her peak in knowing when to stand up for herself and not tolerate mistreatment. And she doesn’t punish the other characters who cared about her for Willow’s actions. She still makes an effort to be involved in Dawn’s life after the break-up. Even staying over at the house after Buffy and Willow are out all night. Even though Dawn is on paper just the little sister of her girlfriend’s best friend and Tara has no obligation to keep in contact with her, she still looks out for her and tries to provide some stability. But Tara’s friendship with Buffy is something that just made me love her even more. And like in the previous season, this creates a role for Tara that only she could fulfil. Buffy could never talk to Xander or Willow about her relationship problems. Giles is out of the picture. And, well, Anya isn’t the sort of person you kiss and tell to. Tara meanwhle is outside of the group at this point so Buffy feels safer going to her about problems. And Tara again shares this understanding with Buffy that allows her to open up. Having feelings that you’re ashamed of and worrying you’re biologically wrong for things outside your control. The script for this scene in ‘Dead Things’ originally had a line where Tara drew parallels between her being a lesbian who’s had to hide her relationships to Buffy being ashamed of hers with Spike. And it’s not drawn attention to but Tara herself was recently in a relationship with someone who could be very virtuous but also had a dark side and was doing bad things that was getting impossible to ignore and justify. Tara is able to provide that support to Buffy and be there for her and making sure Spike stays in line. And even with regards to Willow she’s supportive of her attempts to get clean in a healthy enough way. Take this scene in ‘Older And Far Away’ where Anya is trying to pressure Willow to cast a spell that will allow them to leave the house they’ve been magically trapped in. While the metaphor doesn’t really land (how many life or death situations require alcohol or drugs to get out of?) the sentiment does. Tara stands up for Willow, recognising that she is trying to be better, and again, serving as that grounding presence who prevents the others from falling apart.

By her final episode, this shy wallflower who put up with mistreatment for so long has transformed into a confident, passionate woman who stands up for what she believes in, will lay down boundaries that she will not tolerate the disrespect of,… but also balances that with being 100% there for her loved ones and not hesitating to help someone in need. I hate to constantly reference ‘Games Of Thrones’ but the development of Sansa makes for a good contrast. Both she and Tara start out in perpetual victim mode and their powerlessness is frequently emphasised. Sansa’s character development into ‘empowered woman’ involves shedding her femininity and the attributes that defined her virtues in opposition to her flaws. Most notably her compassion and ability to be smarter than she’s given credit for. Someone who took pity on a drunk knight, became friends with an inexperienced handmaiden, comforted several scared women in a war zone, and stood up for her husband when his family tried to publicly humiliate him develops into someone who smirks after feeding a man to his own hounds, nearly has her own sister assassinated, trash talks a woman who’s literally fighting on the front lines for her, and her reaction to being indirectly responsible for an entire city of innocents being destroyed is…

Tara’s character development allowed her to become stronger and more confident while still retaining the virtues that were built into her characterisation from the beginning. She doesn’t become perfect and I’d argue that restarting her relationship with Willow at the end of ‘Entropy’ probably wasn’t the wisest move that she herself admits - but hey, she’s human. And then what happens?

VI) A Meaningful Death

The real twist of Buffy Season 6 is that The Trio of Warren, Jonathan and Andrew aren’t the true Big Bads. Their actions just unleash the real one. Enraged and distressed at Tara’s accidental death, Willow goes off the deep end and first just tries to kill the three boys in revenge but then escalates into trying to destroy the world to alleviate her pain. It’s probably my favourite arc in the series - or close enough. And even though Tara isn’t technically involved in this arc - what with her dying to start it off - it still speaks to the strength of her character. Tara had previously shown herself as the anchor who kept the group grounded in the aftermaths of deaths or absences, and it was her leaving Willow and being less involved with the group that led to them falling apart. So her death is indeed what allows for things to escalate this way. Remove the group’s anchor from the equation permanently and the conflict increases for maximum drama and therefore excitement. And because Tara was such a beloved character it just adds to the emotional investment. We don’t just want Buffy to stop Willow because the world ending would be a downer in general. We want Willow to be stopped before she crosses lines in a way that Tara herself wouldn’t want, and that she would permanently stop being the character we know and love. Tara’s death also forces things like Xander and Anya to actually talk about their issues rather than what they’ve actually been doing in the fallout of the wedding. Or Buffy to stop seeing Dawn as just someone to protect and closer to an equal member of the team. The resolution to this storyline is not an elaborate spell, fight routine or comically large weapon… but having compassion for the monster and stopping the apocalypse with an act of love - which, arguably, is a very Tara solution to things.

VII) Conclusion

Despite Tara dying at the end of Season 6 there were plans to bring her back in various capacities before the series ended. Given that the Big Bad of Season 7 could impersonate anyone on the show who’s died, she was a prime candidate for that. The episode ‘Conversations With Dead People’ was, in fact, supposed to have her in this scene instead of Cassie but Amber Benson turned it down. Her reasoning being that the Willow/Tara relationship had meant so much and been a lifeline to many viewers who related to it, and seeing Tara as an evil being telling Willow to die “would just destroy people”. You can read the script for that scene in the link below. And yeah, it’s good, but what we got with Cassie is just as effective. There was also a proposed episode where Buffy would get one wish from The Powers That Be and consider using it to, say, restore Angel’s humanity, defeat The First for good, or bring her mother back to life. And it would end with her showing off a new pair of shoes to Willow - letting her believe she used the wish for that - before stepping aside to reveal Tara. The reason for this not happening was initially just that Amber Benson had a directing opportunity in the UK but she later confessed the following:

“I had had some issues with somebody on the show and it had kind of come to a head just as I was getting ready to leave… Leaving the show was sad, because there were some of the crew and the writers and some of the cast that I just adore… But I had made my peace with that person and the show, and I was done… I’m leaving everything in a good place… I don’t need to come back…”

Would the series have been served well by having Tara come back from the dead? On the one hand - that part of Season 7 showing Willow dealing with mourning her and learning to balance magic on her own is pretty strong. On the other - Kennedy, am I right? Part of me feels that Buffy was never the sort of show to have the wish fufillment element. On something like ‘Charmed’ - yeah, no bother. But Buffy always had this gloomy 90’s ‘life sucks - do what you can with it’ vibe. Mainly from Joss Whedon’s mantra that happy people make for boring television. Bringing Tara back may have been little more than fan service. And it’s actually another actor on the show commenting on their character that helps me come down on the side of letting Tara stay dead. Emma Caulfield spoke about how Anya was killed off in the finale, and unfortunately I can’t remember the exact quote or where to find it, but she used the fact that people were upset at the death and that it affected them as a sign that she was successful as a character since a death that no one cared about would hardly be an example of good writing. Tara was lucky in that she got the generous treatment from the writers. Never being given these low moments that were less organic character flaws and more ‘WTF Whedon?!’ I mean Willow will probably be the character I love most overall. Buffy is great and Oz can’t be touched. Gotta love Anya and Cordelia too. But I think Tara easily had the best development and avoided any nasty derailment that virtually nearly everyone else got at some point. And she’s a testament to what the show did right and what holds up about it all these years later.” - Better With Bob?

A fantastic well-worded and reasoned character study analysis of the character Tara Maclay and why she matters even though she was never credited as part of the main or season regular cast. While I don’t believe that Tara had the best character development - by a long mile - I can’t argue with the sentiment that she was a significant character in the show that taught above all that empathy, compassion, kindness and love is all-important in telling a story about flawed characters that so often need it and that rarely, if at all, ever got it. If not for Tara - who could provide it? Sure, tragic and dramatic storytelling is compelling and teaches many lessons but without the balance of hope and love, it feels more like torture than catharsis. You can’t just throw in the dark without the light, the hard without the ease, and the heavy without the heart. And I think - if it weren’t for Tara and the marvellous way Amber Benson portrayed her, Whedon would have taken all the substance out of what he calls a “weight-y story’. Yeah, life does suck and we should just deal with it however way we can, but empathy is enduring a battle that hasn’t been won yet. It provides the empowerment needed to keep fighting against insurmountable odds. We may not win the battle - but least we can say we never gave up the fight and that we never lost ourselves within it.

And that was what Tara Maclay represented alongside being the personification of purity and ‘the nice character’ and ‘Willow’s girlfriend’. She represented that motivation to keep going, to keep fighting, to keep enduring, and to also remain our best selves in the process because it’s not easy to be a fighter and a lover at the same time. It requires real strength and power too few possess or realize that they once did. It’s not just Willow who needed that lesson. Every main protagonist character did. And Tara Maclay showed them how to endure in the fight through love.

#buffy the vampire slayer #tara maclay #amber benson #willow rosenberg #alyson hannigan #willow and tara #empathy #compassion #kindness #love #characterisation #character representation #character development #why tara is the best #better with bob?#character study #analysis

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iviarellereads · 11 months

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Nona the Ninth, John 15:23(1)

(Curious what I'm doing here? Read this post! For detail on The Locked Tomb coverage and the index, read this one!)

(No icon) In which two mysteries are explained, and several additional spinoff questions asked (metaphorically).

The first day, A- believes. The second, M- and G-. The third, everyone believes, because his eyes had changed.

He coughed wetly and, once he had recovered, said: A girl in my high school once told me I had pretty eyes. I was puffed up over that until I was like thirty. You wouldn’t believe how stupid guys get over compliments on our looks, I was vain as.(2) But my eyes weren’t anything special—light brown, not even hazel, yellow on a sunny day. The morning after the lights went out they lightened to dark amber, then they went the colour of new lager, and on the third day they were gold.(3) P— said I looked like a Māori TV Pink Panther.(4) C— said I looked like Edward Cullen from that old Twilight movie, if Edward Cullen had the body of a history teacher.(5) A— said I looked cool. He was the only one. He said, And all around us, those corpses refused to rot.(6)

In the dream(7), they walk up a hill of crunchy brown grass. The water below them is rising, but they don't hurry away. He points at things and names them, more for himself than for her benefit.

Someone’s Honda. Someone’s Mazda. Someone’s four-wheel drive.(8) Someone’s shed. A Macca’s sign.(9)

They find a bench to sit on and he cries for a while, unashamed, then continues his story.

Early on, they moved the corpses around a lot to keep them hidden. M- wanted so badly to prove science had either gone terribly right or wrong. They picked two of them, as different in every way down to method of death as they could ensure, and "played dolls with those two kids for a week". Left them in the boiler room, in the morgue, outside in the elements. Their internal temperatures didn't change the whole time. Every corpse stayed absolutely perfect.

John slept in the facility, not wanting to leave. A- and M- moved in with him, and G- slept in his ute.(10) C- moved in with N-. C- and P- got them through the grace period of a month after lights-out, by massaging the interpretation of contracts and dissuading any sort of action against them. It helped that the world was panicking about the collapse, and not looking at them.

John started to realize he could sense where the bodies were. He could tell which one was in which room without looking, even if the rest of the living moved the bodies around without telling him. M- stops worrying about John being high, and starts cooperating with him, so A- takes up the cause of trying to bring him back to sanity. John took comfort in their squabbling, knowing that when they said the same thing, it had to be serious.(11)

He said, I just wanted to be in the lab. It felt like I could sit by those two bodies, those two kids, and make time go away. I could sit next to them for six minutes, I could sit next to them for six hours. Just listening. They were my moreporks(12) and possums. I was hearing their bodies in all that silence, all the bacteria that weren’t growing … what wasn’t building up in the gut, what wasn’t pooling at the joints. They were my silent night.(13)

He doesn't remember how it came together, how he made the final leap of logic.

The two bodies he'd been working with were named U- and T- on their certificates. It didn't seem right to use those names for them without their permission, with what he was going to do next. He was really starting to care about what was appropriate, what they would have wanted.

So, he got M- and A- to come into a room, saying he wanted to introduce them to someone.

So I brought them into the room with the bodies and I was all, Let me introduce you to … Ulysses. Let me introduce you to … Titania.(14)

In the present, he adds that Titania was for Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream, but Ulysses was for a dog his nana had when he was young.

She said: “But what about the bodies?” He said, Well. When I said, Ulysses, I moved each of his fingers and his thumb into a fist, curled them into the palm. And when I said, This is Titania, same thing, I placed each of her fingers and her thumb into a fist. And I was laughing and laughing like I’d kicked out a chair before someone sat down. Like, good joke. But M— threw up. “Because, Harrow, I’d done it from the other side of the room.”(15)

=====

(1) "He that hateth me hateth my Father also." The greater context is Jesus saying that until him, people were not in sin, but now that he has come, if they reject him, they are in sin for it, because those who hate him must also hate God, who is part of him. How might this relate to the chapter's events? Certainly, lots of people are very intent on shutting down John's operation here, in opposition to him and his mission to save... someone. Or, A1Z26 brings us to THETOW. One assumes this won't be about a blond or flax, though, who knows? (Well, I do, but that's beside the point. Oh boy these John chapters are really sending me down some tangent holes in the intros.) (2) If anyone's unfamiliar with this phrasing, it's just leaving off the implied final comparison so the reader/listener can insert their own hyperbole. He was vain as what? As the day is long, as the sun is bright, as the grass is green, whatever you want to think. I'm sure there's a linguistic descriptive term for it but I don't know it offhand and those things can be hard to search for, especially as search engines turn to algorithms and ads over actual helpful use of terms given. (3) So the gold came with the necromancy. Hm. Was it a change in his genes, allowing Gideon to inherit them? Or did she inherit them because of the power even his sperm carried? God-sperm is what put me off finishing The Magicians series, books or TV, and it's a narrow line Muir walks that keeps me going here, alright, but some questions need to be asked, even if we never get a firm answer. (And honestly, I don't think we NEED or even should get an answer to this one. Some things are better left unsaid so we can fill in our own voids.) (4) And confirmation of John's racial background. This is why you'll see a LOT of fanart that looks a lot like Taika Waititi with blackout eyes with eclipse ring irises. (5) Said like someone who thinks a dad bod isn't hot. (Yes, my reasons for these comments are getting extremely silly. I'm having so much fun my cat won't even stay on my lap because I'm giggling too much. I hope you are too.)

(6) Sounds familiar… (Note to self-grab As Yet Unsent link when it goes up… and I might as well leave that note in for posterity's sake so you see the process. Oh yes, I write these well ahead, having a queue is a must when you can sometimes write a whole week's worth of posts in a day, and sometimes can't write a post for a week because brain.) (7) So, these sequences are placed very obviously in the places when Nona falls asleep, rather like Harrow's River bubble dreams in HTN. But, we know THOSE weren't dreams now… but would it be too boring to do the same thing twice? Are these really dreams? Why aren't they Nona's dreams, if they happen when she's sleeping? Last time we saw Harrow she was in an incredibly ambiguous place, not clearly River or real life, but we know her body is inhabited by Nona. (8) So many vehicles. (9) The southern hemisphere's name for McDonald's. (10) Utility vehicle, an SUV or a pickup truck, big enough to set up a bed in or off the back. Though that might not be quite the same sort of vehicles you might think of for those terms in North American markets. (I can personally recommend checking out the Not Just Bikes channel on YouTube for more information on how NA differs in vehicle styles from the rest of the world.) (11) Definitely tracks with the August and Mercy we knew in Harrow, and John's apparent relationship to them. (12) A kind of owl in NZ. (13) I'm reasonably certain this is primarily a reference to the carol, Silent Night, the night of Jesus's birth, the final calm before his life. However, I posit a second meaning. In 1962 a book was published called Silent Spring, by Rachel Carson, about the damage caused by uncontrolled pesticide use in the environment. In 2017, Tyrone B. Hayes and Martin Hansen published a paper titled "From silent spring to silent night: Agrochemicals and the anthropocene", about how humanity is causing a mass extinction. "Silent Spring" was titled to evoke the decline of birds and their song. The "silent night" is used in the paper to evoke the decline of amphibians. I admit this is tenuous as far as connections go, but given the heavy focus on human contribution to the apocalypse? I think it's a reasonable leap to make as far as interpretation, if not intent. "Silent night" because things like the microbial growth and decay are missing, as a sign of something monumental going on behind the scenes.

(14) The names of the Fourth House Lyctor and cavalier. Coincidence? And why would they be uncensored? Perhaps because John gave them those names, versus their... well, their dead names. This is way more than I can unpack in one of these blog posts but I think it's worth thinking about how big the implications of this are. (15) Why is this in quotation marks? What's different about it?

#the locked tomb #tlt #nona the ninth #ntn #nona the ninth spoilers #ntn spoilers #emperor john gaius #harrowhark nonagesimus

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bdapublishing · 5 months

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December is usually a slow month for publishing but there are some heavy hitters coming out today that have us tapping our feet and doing a little dance. Whether you like your doctors a little evil (and sexy) or a celebrity murder mystery on an island, we’ve got something for you!

Dazzling by Chikodili Emelumadu

Ozoemena is destined (or cursed) to be the first woman in her family to shift into a leopard and protect the land, while Treasure makes a dangerous deal with a ghost in order to bring her dad back. Their fates collide and all that good stuff for you mythology lovers out there.

My Darling Bride by Ilsa Madden-Mills

Emmaline is in a dangerous situation where the only option is to steal a car to get to safety. Did we mention that car is a Lamborghini? Of course, the lambo belongs to a famous football player, Graham, and he tells her that he won’t press charges if he marries her.

Missing by Savannah Brown

Thirty years ago, a singer went missing from a small island town and everyone refuses to talk about it. Mona shows up to Sandown to get the inside scoop for her podcast listeners, but she’s finding a few too many similarities between the missing persons case and her own life.

Five Bad Deeds by Caz Frear

This is like Pretty Little Liars if A was tormenting a lone 40-year-old woman. Ellen recalls every bad thing she’s ever done to try to figure out why this anonymous person is out to get her. She also happens to be renovating her dream house so there’s a lovely home decor backdrop to this psychological thriller.

Here in the Dark by Alexis Soloski

This is like a modern, gothic fever dream for reformed theater kids. Vivian is a theater critic who interviews for a promotion and then her interviewer goes missing. She involves herself and as she uncovers the truth, she resents that she finds herself surrounded by professional actors tasked with keeping secrets.

The End of the World is a Cul de Sac: Stories by Louise Kennedy

One woman has painfully clear visions of her brother committing a murder. Other women are the murderers themselves. Each of the leading ladies in these stories is “good for her” personified.

Orbital by Samantha Harvey

Climate fiction meets science fiction meets literary characterization as six astronauts orbit Earth for sixteen days. There’s a lot to learn about the woes of humanity from outer space; all is revealed from a bird’s eye view.

Stalked by Eva Marks

We’ve got another one for you spicy readers and the title pretty much says it all. Oh, and the stalker is a doctor after his sweet, innocent patient. It’s available on KU! Please check trigger warnings.

Perfect Little Lives by Amber And Danielle Brown

Simone’s mother was murdered ten years ago. She’s done everything she could to live a nice, quiet life since then, but now her childhood neighbor Hunter shows up and reveals that his father had an affair with her mom all those years ago. Simone, Hunter, and a meddlesome true crime podcaster try to get to the bottom of it.

Howl for the Gargoyle by Kathryn Moon

Monster. Smash. Agency!! Need I say more? If you’re a monster lover then you already know what’s up. Hannah turns into a werewolf in her 30s and with all that extra rage in her body, she hires a gargoyle to help her let it out. Good thing he’s made of stone ;)

#bookblr #book blog #books and literature #booklover #books #books and reading #bookworm #reading #new releases #bookshelf #booklr #books & libraries

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elrosil · 1 year

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Holidays: Holiday Happiness

@thecastcompany Gave the writing prompt in April for us

Writing Prompt for April: Holidays Theme: Holiday Happiness or Holiday misHaps

Share a story about your character going through one of the Holidays in Azeroth. Share a good memory of this holiday or a share a horrible memory of this holiday.

Pick between on these holidays: Noblegarden, Hallow's End, Lunar Festival, Midsummer Fire Festival, Love is in the Air, Brewfest, Winterveil, or Pilgrim's Bounty.

I picked Winter Veil! Enjoy the story!

Elrosil, her childhood friend and first love Eri'daras, and young boy that grew up in the brothel with Elrosil named Alsuron looked back and forth as they were pressed against a wall in the Quel’Thalas main market, that was setting up for Winter Veil. Elrosil brushed a black bang from her face casing out the joint and says, “ So they are about to start a market and all the kids from those buildings of learning will be coming out and we can blend in.”

Alsuron the amber headed rapscallion looks at Elrosil and shakes his head, “ They are gonna know we arent like them, we dont look like them?”

Elrosil looks over at him, “ Why do we keep bringing him to stuff he is always a whiner, just act like them thats the point....you cant act like a privellaged brat that is better than folks like us.....here let me start...” thumps one of his ear and walks around in a circle with her booty stuck out pressing her middle finger to her thumb spreading her fingers up towards the sky, “ I am a Thalassian elf from a family with a name! And I am better than you...” she hunches over and laughs, “ See not hard....” rolls her eyes

Eri’daras giggles slightly at taps Elrosil arm, “ Here they come.” she points to the school children.

The three elves would wait and blend into the market with the children, they of course got no looks at first as the children were more focused about the market and all the free goodies, and Elrosil, Eri’daras and Alsuron were about to benefit from this, they rushed stalls with the other children, eating to several different Winter Veil pastries and sweets, sugar not a commodity in the slums, so they were rejoicing.

Elrosil biting off the heads of Gingerbread cookies, biting into popcorn balls, rice crispy balls, dumping a handful of chocolate candies into her mouth, the others following suit. Alsuron even had a ring of chocolate around his mouth, Eri’daras sucking on a candy candy looking at the stalls at all the shiny rings and necklaces in awe, the rest of the children had these luxuries daily, and these three children only wished for this life.

While they were having the time of there life, eventually it was obvious they were not like the others, and it caught onto the guards. They each were grabbed by a single guard, Elrosil grabbed by her ear, they were pinched and dragged back towards the lower city gates, “ You are not suppose to be here! What gutter did you crawl out of here, you know your place cretin!”

The three children screaming out in pain from being dragged and not wanting to be taken away. The teacher of this class called out for the guards to stop as the kids were taken back to the gate and called to guards to stand back, “ One moment....”

The three ruffians stood at the gates back to the lower city and looked up, Elrosil cross her arms and huffed blowing a bang from her face, “ Were not gonna apologize if that is what you want lady....”

The fair skinned woman crouched down to look at Elrosil and the others and shakes her head, “ No, nothing like that.” She sighs and reaches into her back and holds out three stuffed murlocs holding candy canes, “ We had a few of the children that did not want commoner toys....and think this would be perfect for you, its not much but no child should be treated like you just were not so close to Winterveil.”

Eri’daras and Alsuron grabbed there plushies and grabbed it and thanked her. Elrosil walked over to the woman and snatched the doll and looked at the well made blue and purple murloc doll and then at the woman, “ Why are you being nice? People outside this gate are generally dicks to people like us.....”

The woman offered a nice smile, “ Not all of us....you try to have a Happy Winter Veil okay?” She gives Elrosil a hug before she stands up and nods to the guards, “ Just open the gate and dont harm them okay, there just children....”

The guards open the gates and practically kicked the children into there half of the city after the woman wandered off. Alsuron said, “ See I told you it wasnt going to work!”

Eri’dara looks at him, “ Hey we got to try tasty treats we will never be able to have again for a little bit and each scored a toy...”

Elrosil smiles at both of them, “ And a free meal.” she tosses up the nice elf womans coin bag and walks towards the lower city, “ Happy Winter Veil indeed!”

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