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hahawallysimp · 9 months

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Royalty Wally x GN!Reader

(Art and au by @neonross + This fic is heavily inspired by and set in the world built by Emma in her Royalty Au Fic so please go check her out!)

Synopsis: As one of the few knights left under the Spade's council rule, the King of Hearts takes particular interest in you after seeing your fencing abilities, even against one of your own court.

You took a deep breath in, calming yourself. Today the shuffling, a gathering between all four kingdoms, was holding an event. Fencing. Though you certainly didn't consider your skills extraordinary or anything, you were proud of your swordsmanship nonetheless, having trained since childhood. You looked over to the rest of your peers and nodded to Arnold, a duke and soon to be ruler of the Spades Kingdom once he reached of age and maturity.

Silently, you went to go stand next to the Lord, speaking softly so that only he could hear you, "Remember, you are to under no circumstances become prideful or brash in front of this audience." You look to the younger boy sternly, meeting his gaze before continuing, "The kingdom has too much relying on this shuffling going well for you to do so." You could tell Arnold was holding back some indignance at your words, but were glad he kept it under lock and key.

Refocusing your gaze to the large hall where the fencing would be held, you took in the several platforms they had put together. You counted eight in total, all holding different duels as the audience could watch from the giant bleachers. Many had already lined up to take their seats, rows and rows of different shades of red, aqua, and green flooded your eyes and started to overwhelm your senses.

You shook your head quickly, reminding yourself that you must keep it together, if only to put on a good show for the nobles of your neighboring kingdoms. You heard a shriek, and swerved you gaze to face it, realizing a whistle had been blown and a man, a servant of the heart's kingdom by the look of it, was handing out the schedule for those competing. You raced over to meet the man and find where your placement was in the first round.

Seventh stage, with a one... Duke Below? You scoff internally at the odd name, but nod to the servant and thank them before moving away and finding the stage you'd be on. Suddenly, you feel your heart skip a beat as you realize the stage you were put on would be right in front of the tree royals. Squealing internally you think to yourself 'Lady Ebony is going to be so excited, I might be able to impress the royals and give a good name to the spades!'

Shaking your hands you go to the far left of the stage, facing the royals stand before finding where the necessary items for such a duel had been set. You smile to yourself, seeing the mask provided was a dark black, with a blue spade painted on the back. Your sword even had a blue handle, though it's blade was the usual silver. As you wait for the duels to begin you practice your moves, striking and slashing the air gracefully, looking like a grand opry dancer.

After a few moments, you begin to feel eyes on you, though, as a member of the Spades kingdom it wasn't all that of an unfamiliar feeling by now. Judgement was common among the kingdoms by now, with the death of your prior king and the Great Departure that followed it. You take their gaze and smirk under your mask almost resentfully, moving faster, and striking sooner. With a twirl to the other side, you suddenly realize why it seemed as if the stares had gotten so much more intense.

The King. The King of Hearts was staring at you. You felt your breath hitch as your face turned a bright apple red, thankful that he couldn't see it under the mask. He looked at you in such deep thought... one might even say in admiration... 'Focus (Y/N).' You continued to remind yourself, and resuming your practice despite the faltering moment. A bell rings soon after and you straighten yourself, walking up to the stairs that lead up to the stage to meet your opponent.

In front of you stood Duke Below, wearing white and aqua suit and mask. 'Ah, so he's a Duke of Diamonds then.' You snap back into focus as the ref nods and initiates the match. Suddenly, you are in position, dancing around the Duke as he forcefully attempts to jab you even as you move with ease out of the way. His fighting style, if it could even be called as such, reminded you of the young Lord Arnold's, vicious, offensive, barbaric even. Feeling the disappointment fill your chest as you realize the Duke wasn't as experienced as you would have expected, you frown, before aiming a quick strike to his chest and knocking him down with ease, winning the match easily.

After shaking the Dukes hand, you could see the anger almost radiating off of him, stomping his way down the steps and throwing his mask down with a clash. You shake your head, almost embarrassed at the man's behavior, sighing and shaking your head before stepping off the stage and setting your weapon and mask down to get some rest. Though you don't get much time to rest before suddenly a servant of the Hearts is running up to you with a cup of water.

"The King requested you drink some water after such a match, he is very impressed by your skill. You will also be staying on this stage for the rest of the tournament, so long as you aren't disqualified, also at the King's request" The servant curtsies and hands the water as they speak and your eyes widen, almost left without words, simply nodding at the servant before they leave. You chug the water before setting the cup down and looking back to the Royals, finding the King's gaze on you yet again.

Clumsily, you bow attempting to show the King your thanks before nearly tripping over your own to feet. Looking up quickly to try and apologize, at least as best you could from so far away, you were surprised to find the kind chuckling at your actions, with a seemingly genuine smile. Such a smile even graced your face as you looked up to the King, shaking your head before rushing to get your gear back on as the second rounds are announced.

This time you were put against Lord Braxter, dressed in red and white gear that showed off his alliance to the Kingdom of Hearts. Similar to the first round, you played primarily defense, though unlike the Duke, Lord Braxter was careful, calculated even with his movement. You grinned under your mask as you moved quicker, looking for any opening you could find. In a moment he switching from his piercing moves to attempt to slash your shoulder, forcing you to slide to the other side, moving to stand behind him. In a moment, your sword had pierced the back of his clothing, pride filling you at such a genius move in the moment.

Yet again, you were declared the winner, shaking the Lord's hands as he thanked you for a good fight, but this time as you went to go take your break, you already found a cup of water waiting for you, smiling at it. Though you also noticed a small note next to it, examining the slightly rough handwriting before reading it.

Hello, Mx. (L/N) I just wanted to let you know I am very impressed by your skill and grace in these duels. Truly, your strategy and thinking is just such a delightful sight - Darling, King of Hearts

You almost spit out your water as you read the note, unable to hide your shock. Your face turned that same bright red again before you spun your head to face the royals. Though you didn't find any gaze on you this time, thankful that they wouldn't have seen your shock or red face. Sighing through your nose you thank the spirits before looking around you. Surprised, you see that you had already reached the last four, and that the young lord, Arnold, had also made it.

You smiled for a moment, before it fell seeing his prideful grin. You could tell his hubris was beginning to take over, fearing what might result from it. Suddenly, he was walking towards your stage. It took a moment, but you soon realized he was to be your next opponent. You nodded to him but he simply walked past you without so much as a glance, still grinning. The same disgust from earlier began to rise up, yet you kept your face cold and emotionless. You solemnly put your mask on, tightening it as you pick up the sword, feeling the coolness of the handle through your gloves as you walk up the steps yet again, meeting the young lord's stance. 'I have to keep him from winning' His pride could not be shown by a loss to anyone but a fellow Spade, you wouldn't let Lady Ebony's plans all fail because of an immature child like Arnold.

You could feel the eyes of everyone boring into you and Arnold as the duel was signaled to begin, seeing the King's intense gaze back on you from the corner of your eye. This time, you went on the offense, dancing around Arnold as he swung wildly, yet powerfully at you. He couldn't seem to land a hit as you would simply dance out of the way each time he attempted a strike. You could feel the anger boil up in your heart as you realized this was how he had won all of his other matches. By fighting like a child, with no grace or beauty to be seen in it. You were seeing red. All you could feel was the burn of your muscles as you kept dancing around the young man, playing with him like cat does a mouse. Just like he did with all of his other opponents. You could see him getting weary, slowing down and making weaker strikes.

Suddenly, there was a gasp among the crowd. Arnold was on the ground, several yards away. You struck him. Hard. You almost felt guilty, but it faded soon when you remembered how he treated everybody else. You held your chin up in victory as you walked softly to the center of the stage, watching Arnold clutch his abdomen where his clothing was slightly ripped. He limped over to you as he shook your hand. You could feel his intense glare and embarrassment as he looked at you through the mask. Though above the noise of the audience, a loud clapping could be heard as you walked off the stage. Turning around, you saw the King of Hearts clapping to your victory.

Your heart soared at his approval, feeling your face move to be a large grin. As you move down you find yet another full cup of water, but no note or servant this time, almost grateful for no more surprises. You chugged the water quickly, thankful for the cool relief it brought as your muscles ached and burned. You could hear Arnold's voice complaining, indignant to his lost against his own night and shook your head. You would've gone to talk to him about it, but you knew Lady Ebony would eventually discuss the actions he should take going forward anyways. Shaking your head you look down, before jumping up as you hear a deep, monotone voice from in front of you.

"Hello there, Mx. Hedrick." You look up, absolutely flabbergasted as you see the King of Hearts in front of you. Talking to you. A Knight of Spades. Your brain short circuits for a moment as you mumble out stutters and the King smiles at you, chuckling at your surprise. After a moment of pure confusion, you're able to configure your words properly.

"Oh um Your Highness! May I ask why you are here?" You couldn't hide your nerves no matter how hard you tried, your voice was too loud, too unnatural. You felt internal embarrassment and cursed yourself for being so strange around the King. Thankfully though, he didn't seem to mind.

"Well, what kind of host would I be if I didn't personally congratulate the winner, my dear?" Your brain officially stopped working at that point. Winner? There was supposed to be one more match, you were sure of it. It seemed the King noticed your confusion and elaborated quickly. "The other two were forced to come to a draw as one was cut past their protection and the other seems to have broken their leg." Your eyes widened. At a loss for words you simply nodded at the King. He chuckled, his usual monotone, adorable chuckle. You could feel your face heat up at his chuckle, looking down to try and hide it, thanking him for his congratulations.

"T-Thank you, your Highness, I appreciate your thought" He looked down at you and kneeled to meet your height, surprising you as you realized he was doing this in front of everyone. Suddenly, the trophy was in your hands and you smiled, thanking him again before setting it down next to you. "The Spades appreciate you being such a delightful host" You bowed as best as you could from you sitting position. Wally grabbed your hand gently, kissing it and making your face light up on fire.

"Your welcome M'lady." You felt yourself internally die at his words, not believing he would treat a simple night as such. Much less one from the Spade's Kingdom. Just as quickly as he came to you, he left leaving you with a trophy, and a face redder than the most delicious apples of the Heart's Kingdom.

"A King... Just kissed me..." You stared out into the distance, absolutely astonished at the day's events.

#wally darling #wally darling x reader #wally darling x y/n #welcomehomeau #royalty au #wh royalty au #royalty au wally darling

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azsazz · 2 years

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Snatched

Azriel x Reader

Summary: Request from @acourtofmenandthirst where Knox gets stolen from the family while they are on vacation. Thank you for the heartbreaking suggestion, enjoy. 😅

Warnings: Kidnapping, weapons

Word Count: 4,015

Notes: Lots of requests for kidnapping fics...y'all okay?

_________________________________________

“Thank you again, Tarquin, for having us,” you speak graciously to the High Lord of Summer. It isn’t often that you and Azriel get time off, and with the over-thoughtful Illyrian Spymaster, he was cautious of where your family set to vacation, untrusting some of the High Lord’s intentions.

But not at the Summer Court. It has been a home away from home for you and your mate since before your children were even born and Tarquin is like a brother to you. Even all six of your energetic children are welcome, unlike Cassian, though the High Lord says that it’s mostly a joke.

“No need to thank me, (Y/N), you know you both are always welcome in Summer,” the High Lord beams before bringing his golden goblet of wine to his mouth for a sip of the saccharine liquid.

You respond with a tired smile of your own, resting your head on your mate’s shoulder who wraps his arm around you, kissing the crown of your hair sweetly. It’s utter bliss. The babes are all playing in another room, the younger of the brood probably fast asleep by now from the help of Tarquin’s most trusted wraiths, who have been helping corral your children throughout your stay.

You peek up at your shadowsinger but he’s already staring down at you lovingly. With the extra eyes on your children it will be much easier for you and Azriel to get the alone time you so desperately need, and you’re hoping to make it through the night without one of the babes sneaking into your bedroom.

And you can see it in his eyes too, slightly hazy from the few drinks he’d allowed himself, looking at you like you’re the best thing that’s ever happened to him, nearly pleading for you to end this conversation with your old friend so that he can take you to bed.

The High Lord catches your gazes and takes the hint, grinning at the two of you with a wicked smile as he leads the way to the suites.

“Don’t you say it,” you warn your friend, pressing close to Azriel's side. You feel amazing, completely at ease as you stroll through the long halls, the ocean’s salty breeze sweeping all around you.

Tarquin doesn’t listen, chuckling, “Trying for baby number seven then?” he teases and your pink cheeks warmed from the wine sting with a blush. A flash of surprise filters through the bond and Azriel hugs you closer, biting back an amused smirk.

“Quiet you,” you groan, playfully shoving at your friend.

He laughs heartily as he catches his footing. “Shoving a High Lord? That’s the kind of thing that could get you banned from the Summer Court.”

Your snarky retort is on the tip of your tongue when a piercing scream has you all freezing in the hall. Azriel’s shadows immediately slither away as he tucks you closer to him, reaching for the hidden knife in his boot. Tarquin listens to the calls of the water for word of what’s going on as you take off towards the sound.

It’s a wraith, shroud with fear and tears in her eyes as she runs, aqua skirts balled in her fists.

“Lady (Y/N),” she sobs and you halt. Dread fills your stomach and the look in her eyes has your knees wobbling. “It’s the babe, Knox. He’s–he’s gone.”

__________

The High Lord receives the call from his brother in the Summer Court and he stills, unease twisting his gut like a whirlpool, shifting uncomfortably in his seat at the head of the table. His mate glances at him, brows furrowed. The dark feeling sends a shiver up his spine and he knows immediately that something is not right.

Calling out to Azriel he goes still at the brother's words, dark matter swirling from his body and throughout the room, casting it into near complete darkness.

Nyx makes a startled noise, the fork loaded with lovely chocolate cake falls to the plate below with a clang. Feyre clutches onto her mate's hand, begging him to let her in, see what’s going on. He shuts his eyes. He doesn’t want his love to hear this, how Knox was taken from his crib in the Summer Court. The dessert he’s been eating threatens to make a reappearance.

He lets her see and her gasp is heartbreaking. Feyre clamps a hand over her heart in shock, staring up at him with wide, sad eyes. She brushes her fingers through her son’s hair, needing the reassurance that he’s there.

Rhys has to go.

He’s already giving orders, squeezing Feyre’s hand because he can’t even manage to do anything else, he feels too sick to.

He calls out to Cassian, and the warlord replies just as quickly. Rhys can hear the utter devastation in his brother’s voice when he responds, the hot fury burning from his words, letting the High Lord know they’ll be ready.

He and Feyre winnow to the House of Wind, Nyx holding tightly to both of their hands. He doesn’t ask what’s happening, why he didn’t get to finish his cake, he knows better than to pry.

Cassian and Nesta had been in the middle of playing a game with their son, but now, a terrified feeling flitting through the air, it had abruptly ended their competitive match.

Nesta stands with the most emotion he’s ever seen, bracing herself against a chair, hand pressed to her mouth as she stares at Cassian, eyes brimmed with tears. The warlord must’ve just finished telling her what happened as he’s adjusting his weapons on his belt with finality, a murderous look in his eyes.

Gideon keeps glancing between his parents and sends a questioning glance toward his cousin when he sees him, wondering what’s going on. Nyx gives a slight shake of his head; confused doesn’t even begin to describe why his parents are acting like this.

Feyre is to take Nesta and Gideon to the River House where the wards are more secure and wait for Rhys to bring the rest of the babes to safety.

Rhys and Cassian winnow to the Summer Court, their hearts breaking at the sight, plunged into the sound of you sobbing, holding onto your mate for dear life.

He’s never seen this look on Azriel’s face before, and if he didn’t know his brother he’d think him a Death God all his own, hazel eyes dialated with murderous inent, standing stock straight, his shadows already sweeping through the castle for any leads.

Rhy’s is terrified to approach, not only because of the shadowsinger, but because of you. A female who’d just had her son taken. You are sure a force to be reckoned with.

“Where are the rest of the babes?” he murmurs softly. He can see the horror in his brother’s eyes, the heartbreak, how small and scared he is behind that deathly look. He has one hand cradled to the back of your head where it’s buried into his chest, the other wrapped around your waist, holding you upright.

“They’re in the other room with Tarquin and his wraiths,” Azriel’s voice is strained. He’s barely holding himself together but he has no leads yet, shadows revealing nothing of who has taken your son. “We need to question them all.”

You don’t even protest. Even though Tarquin is your friend and would never do something like this, if he had any sort of hand in this you need to know and you need to know now.

Cassian’s already moving for the door, set to watch the children while his brothers create a plan of interrogation and attack. They will not be left without watch again.

__________

Rhys helps Azriel winnow you all to the River House where Feyre, Nesta, and their children wait. The females immediately usher you into their arms, tears streaming down their own faces as they whisper soothing words into your hair.

You’re numb. Can’t feel a thing as you let the floodgates open once more. You hadn’t wanted your children seeing you like this but they were smart, noticed that one of their siblings was missing from the room but didn’t know why.

Wren runs to his cousins, completely confused and alarmed, trying to figure out what they know. He doesn’t know where his youngest brother is and no one will tell him a thing no matter how much he pleads.

Baz’s brows are furrowed in anger. He wants his brother and he wants to see him now. He doesn’t understand why his uncle Cassian isn’t letting him though, and the little boy is beside himself with anger, knowing that something isn’t quite right.

He’s tempted to run over to his older brother, beg him to tell him what’s going on. Surely Wren knows, he is the oldest and knows everything. But Baz waits patiently, arms crossed tightly over his chest as his little shadows swirl around him, slithering towards his parents to listen in.

Zuzu, ever the stubborn half-Illyrian, keeps insisting that she’s going to go wherever her father and uncles are going. Each time one of them sets her down she runs to another warrior on her little legs, begging to be picked up. When they ultimately do she lets them know that she wants to go with them.

Jax’s face is stoic, wide eyes the only thing giving away that he’s watching intently. He doesn’t know what’s going on, too young to understand. He’s irritated by all of the noise, but he can tell that whatever is happening is not good, and he bursts out in tears once Rhys sets him on the floor.

And Knox’s twin sister, Malos, has not stopped crying since her brother had been taken. They’d never been more than a room apart from each other before, often wailing loudly until they were aware they were in the same vicinity with each other, calming down immediately.

You’re worried she’s going to make herself sick with all of this crying but you can’t even blame her because you had hardly stopped sobbing since you’d found out he was gone.

Overwhelmed, you excuse yourself, slipping out of the chaos and into the nearest room with a lock which just happens to be an extra study.

You brace yourself against the desk, taking a shuddering breath that does little to calm you. Your hands are shaking and your heart feels like it’s been cleaved in two, a piece of you taken with your son.

How could this have happened? How could you have let this happen? Is Knox going to be–

You tense at the feeling that sweeps through the room, dark and heavy. It’s Azriel, emerging from the shadows, not even the locked door keeping him away.

He says nothing as he closes in on you, shuffling you gently into his arms as he rests his head against yours.

There’s nothing to say. Nothing that can fix any of this, make anyone feel better, and while he is going to go off with Rhysand and Cassian to find Knox you are going to be left here with your terrified children asking where their brother is.

“I’m going with,” you say weakly and his grip tightens. You know you’d be of little help, having hardly any training or powers of your own, but he’s your son and you feel the need to aid the search.

“(Y/N), someone needs to stay here with the children,” Azriel begs, cradling your face in his hands. He’s trying to be rational, and you don’t think you’ve ever seen your mate more scared in the long years you’ve been with him. You know that he’s trying to hide how he’s truly feeling but you can feel his hands shaking where they rest against your cheeks and the terrified feeling is burning hot across the bond. It’s mixing with your own sickly fear and it’s consuming.

You can’t stop the tears from falling. Your baby is Mother knows where with Cauldron knows who.

“Then you stay here,” you bellow, shoving weakly at his chest. He doesn’t so much as move an inch and his trembling hands are doing nothing to ground you. All you can do is stare up at him in disbelief.

“Az, he’s–” you can’t even say it, choking on the words in your mouth as you collapse against him again in a fit of rage and sobs. Your youngest son, gone without a fucking trace, from right under your noses.

“I know,” your mate's tone is strained, like it hurts him to speak, trying so desperately to keep it together for his family. He blames himself, should’ve known better than to think he could relax and enjoy time with his brood.

You’re keeping him too long, pressed up against him and clutching his clothes for support. He needs to go and you need to console the children that are downstairs with the rest of the Inner Circle.

“I should go with you,” you clear your throat, pleading once more, trying to stop the hot tears from flowing freely down your cheeks. You know that he’d take you in a heartbeat but it would mean leaving your other five children to be tended by their aunts. It would serve better for at least one of you to stay and show them that everything is going to be alright, even if you’re not sure you believe it right now.

“I’m going to bring our baby home, (Y/N). I promise you that.”

__________

“(Y/N),” a soft voice calls from the entrance of the room and you wipe your tears furiously. It’s Cassian, the warlord on guard while his brothers search for your missing child. He must have heard your sniffling and come to check on you.

How he’d managed to remove himself from the pile of children that had climbed atop the Illyrian and fallen asleep was beyond you. He is a true warrior indeed.

Your eyes hurt from the amount of tears you’ve spilled and you’re burning with the need to sleep but your stomach is in knots and your mind is racing, thinking of what they could be doing to Knox at this very moment.

Your friend catches sight of Feyre, who’d been keeping you company but had given into her own drowsiness, snuggled into the blanket you’d pulled over her hours ago. She’d offered a helping hand herself but Rhysand was more than adamant that she stay here with you, Cassian, and all of the children in case something should happen.

“You should be trying to sleep,” he says softly, his usual mirthy tone raw with emotion, the ache he feels for you and your mate as he lowers himself to the ground beside you in front of the smoldering hearth.

“How can I sleep when a piece of me is missing?” you question. Your voice cracks and your already burning eyes fill with tears once again. You’re surprised you have anything left to shed, you hadn’t even been able to eat or drink anything since he’d been gone, that feeling in your stomach all too much.

He tucks you beneath his large arm, pulling you in close and it helps a little but not enough. Nothing is ever going to be enough. “He’s okay, (Y/N).”

You swallow thickly, peering up at him weakly. “How do you know that?”

“Because he’s your and Azriel’s son.”

You’re quiet for a moment, mulling the warlord’s words over as you stare into the dying flames before you, missing the warmth against your already hot cheeks.

“I just don’t get it,” you hide your face in your hands, “A child, Cassian. A fucking child. And not just any child, sweet little Knox who can’t even speak,” you sob and he holds you closer. He’s not so good with knowing how to comfort a crying female, often unleashing his own emotions through his fists, but he does what he can and you’re thankful.

“And I know Az is killing himself over this and remembering how terrifying it was for him when he was young and even though it was his own brothers these are adults who have taken him. Adults who have been trying to hold something over us for centuries…what do you think they’ll do to him?”

Oh Gods, you’re making yourself sick again, hyperventilating at the thought of any sort of harm coming to your child.

Cassian doesn’t even know what to say or do, how to calm you down because Knox may not be his own child but he sure feels like it with how fiercely you all love each other’s children.

So he doesn’t say anything, he just holds you tight until you give into the sleep trying to pull you under, only to jolt awake when you sense your mate’s presence hours later. You haul yourself off of the couch Cassian had laid you on to meet the spymaster, shadows thick like a cloak covering his hands that he’s wringing together.

The look he gives you has you breaking, a slight shake of his head that has you slapping a hand over your mouth to muffle a cry of pain, knees giving out beneath you.

They hadn’t found him.

He looks horrible, hair sticking up from where he’s been pulling it endlessly, dark circles beneath his dull, golden eyes from days of searching, wings drooped lowly behind him in defeat.

Your little boy must be so scared out there all alone.

“I’m going back out there,” Azriel rasps, a promise in those exhausted eyes. “Just came to switch out Rhys for Cassian.”

You want to offer to help, you’ve been running yourself ragged here, trying to do tasks that will keep your mind from going insane with theories about what is currently happening to your son. But Azriel has the experience, gone for days on end with little to no sleep, he’s used to the kind of stress that comes with a mission. But his heart is involved this time too. He will not stop until Knox is found.

You nod, letting him help you to your feet. You have nothing to say, the thickness in your throat won’t allow it.

You mate kisses your forehead tenderly, gesturing to Cassian that he’s ready to go, taking his brother's arm in his grasp, his shadows sweeping around them thickly, ready to winnow.

A knock on the door sounds.

You look between the High Lord and the rest of your friends, brows furrowed. They’re just as confused as you are, wondering for a moment how someone’s made it onto the property through the wards. It could just be Amren or Mor, and you all follow Rhys as he stalks towards the front room.

Azriel’s breath hitches in his throat as you approach, his shadows already receiving word of who’s on the other side.

“Knox,” he whispers in disbelief at the same time Rhys swings open the door to reveal your little boy cradled in the last person you expected arms.

Baz appears around the corner, woken from a nightmare about his brother going missing. There’s fat tears in his eyes and he’s trying to find you – he loves a good snuggle with his mother, it makes everything better – when he catches sight of his littlest brother.

“Knox,” he calls, startling you all. The boy races through the entry, dodging his aunts and uncles that try to lunge for him with ease. You rush forward as well, straight for the child in the arms of the Autumn Court royal.

Baz reaches him first, colliding with his legs that has the auburn haired male staggering back a step, his grip firm on the babe in his arms. Your son scrambles to try and get a peek of his brother, wholly confused as to why this stranger has him, yelling at the lordling to hand his sibling over.

Eris looks like he’d rather be anywhere else as Cassian steps towards him with a glare, prying young Baz off of him. He’d like to see what the tiny half-Illyrian could do, knows he could land some good hits on the autumn native, but now’s not the time, not as he’s surrendering Knox over to you.

You don’t even care that it’s Eris. He has Knox and he looks as happy as ever, playing with the lordlings long fingers.

“Knox,” you cry, taking him from the Autumn male and hugging him tightly to your chest. Rhys has already called for Madja to check on the child and while you examine him, rubbing your fingers across his chubby cheeks Feyre and Nesta lead you away from Eris.

As soon as he has a clear shot Azriel takes it, shoving the male up against the wall with Truth–Teller pressed up against his neck, hissing down at him.

He ignores Baz’s cheering, muffled quickly by Cassian’s large hand covering the boy’s mouth.

“Eris,” his voice is like midnight, sending shivers up the Autumn male’s spine. He knew it was a risk to bring the babe back like this, how it would look when he showed up with the shadowsingers youngest in his arms, but when his mother had handed him the child and begged him to get him back to safety he couldn’t refuse.

He holds his hands up in surrender and only Rhysands grip on Azriel’s shoulder makes the shadowsinger stop, fully intent on killing the auburn haired male before him.

They let Eris speak, you listening with half an ear while the healer looks over the content babe in your arms. You still can’t believe that he’s here, dread slowly ebbing from you when she deems him unharmed and retreats back to the library.

It had been Beron’s plan, and the lordling didn’t even know the babe was in his court until his mother had come to him, beaten and bloody but curling the little boy into her chest, pushing him gently into Eris’ arms with tears streaming down her face.

One look at the babe and his stomach had dropped. He knew exactly who’s child he was cradling in his arms, and had seen that very look directed at him more times than he could count throughout his 500 years of life.

Confused and absolutely terrified of what would happen should the shadowsinger show up and see his son in the arms of the Autumn Court royal, he set out to return him, not only for you and Azriel, but for his mother. She’d been absolutely broken when Beron brought the babe to her, for she knew just how cruel her husband can be and it reminded her of what he’d been dreaming to do to her youngest son, Lucien.

Eris hated to leave his mother there. Amber eyes burning hot at the sight of her and this babe, quiet and calm but staring up at him with a look that made him shift uncomfortably. Must be a family trait.

He hadn’t known how exactly his father knew where you were or how to attack, but he could give Azriel the go ahead to finally kill that son of a bitch. For his mother, for himself, for you.

This is simply something he never would have done.

Even Rhys gives a slight shake of his head in agreement, permission to do just that and a gleam in his eyes to say that he will personally help the shadowsinger rid Prythian of its resident Autumn abuser.

Eris has to admit that the thought of stealing a child made him sick. Couldn’t even fathom what he’d feel like if he had children of his own, but as he took care of the little boy now tucked safely in your arms – the poor thing – and the reaction of his older brother, so fiercely running into the fray to get to him, it made his heart ache in a different sort of way.

And as much as he doesn’t like the shadowsinger, and he’ll never admit something like this aloud – he does have some cute children.

#azriel x you #azriel x reader #azrielxreader #azriel/reader #azriel/you #acotar #acomaf #azriel #acowar #azsazz #nextgen #bat babies #sad #sobbing writing this #my little knoxie

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simplyclary · 4 months

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I Loved How Good You Looked: A TZP 2023 Fashion Wrap-Up (Part 1)

(Edit by yours truly)

In the world of fashion, every outfit tells a story, and 2023 has certainly been a memorable year for rising Hollywood star Taylor Zakhar Perez.

From his lead role in Amazon Prime's hit movie "Red, White and Royal Blue" to his unforgettable fits throughout the year, Taylor shows no signs of slowing down in both the acting world and the fashion world.

As 2023 comes to a close, it's time to take a glamorous stroll down the Taylor Zakhar Perez fashion memory lane! I'll unravel the variety of trends that graced the catwalks, adorned the red carpets, and became street-style staples.

This TZP fashion wrap-up promises a dazzling lineup of looks that defined the essence of elegance and daring creativity that made 2023 unforgettable, especially for Taylor and his ever growing fanbase.

Join me as I unwrap the fashion moments that left fans breathless, inspired, and utterly in love with the one and only Taylor Zakhar Perez.

So get comfortable, grab a drink and some snacks and let the fashion show begin..

Vanity Fair London- February 2023

Ahhh, look at how dashing he is in that black suit? Already slaying and it's only February!

Anyway, Taylor in this black ensemble is nothing but perfection. Also, the way that his hair was styled up and his clean-shaven look adds a bit of a pristine vibe to the overall look.

Give me Taylor in a black suit any day and you would just catch me swooning over it for the rest of the day.

Cyclops x Moncler Genius Show- February 2023

This is the lighter contrast to that of his look during Vanity Fair London, because instead of donning an all-black outfit, Taylor opted for more lighter colors like white, light blue and a dark(ish) aqua green shade.

For this event, he opted for a t-shirt with the name of the brand on it under a plaid flannel like shirt and dark aqua green pants that also has the brand's name on it.

The one thing that I didn't really like is the shades that he wore. It's too big for me and I would've preferred that he went without the shades. However, if he was going for an outer-space alien vibe with this look, I think he nailed it because those shades definitely looked like the eyes of an alien that's coming to invade or seek peace on Earth.

Versace Cruise 2024 Show- March 2023

This is one of Taylor's look that live rent-free in the minds of fans. I mean, how can it not? He looks so handsome.

This mesh tank top with leather pants is a combination that I never thought would work but it actually could, on Taylor at least. I love how his bits of jewelry added a bit of sparkle to the overall darkness of the outfit, similar to stars in the night sky.

I need Taylor to rock more outfits like this come 2024, because this look definitely had fans wanting more.

Green Carpet Fashion Awards-March 2023

I swear to the angels, this look is giving me real Rhysand vibes, and I'm not mad about that.

Just another all-black Taylor outfit for the year (trust me, I know you know this ain't the last all-black outfit he wore), and dang, he looks absolutely handsome. With the clean-shaven look and his hair that styled up, this is a vision of a Night Court prince right here.

Yep, I'm just here throwing out my fantasies, but it is what it is.

Woolmark Trip to Australia-March 2023

One of his memorable supply chain trips that he took to further understand the fabrics that go into the very clothes that people wear.

For the first photo, it was a good choice that he wore a sweater to Australia because he went there during the fall season in the country (which runs from March to May). It's also a good pop of color and compliments really well with the green of the grass (and the white of the sheep).

As for the second photo (which was taken when he was in one of the shops looking at fabrics), he wore a plain whitish-grey shirt underneath a navy blue blazer. It exudes simplicity with a dash of elegance. I also love how it was during this time that he made a custom-wool suit for himself.

I love a man who cares about the environment. Men like him are a rare breed nowadays.

BMW x Coachella- April 2023

Be honest with yourselves, when you look at this picture, what did you look at first? The scenery? The car? Or Taylor? It would be the third option, obviously.

This was a collaboration of BMW with the summer music festival Coachella and to have Taylor as a model for it is perfect because it's like mixing together adventure (with the car) and music & fun (I mean, that's one of the reasons people go to Coachella, right?), which sums up Taylor's personality in a way (adventurous and fun-loving).

For this, Taylor wore a summer look, with a white tank top underneath a black jacket with black shorts and green rubber shoes. I love how the green adds a touch of color to his overall neutral outfit. It's a simple combination but he makes it look like a masterpiece, if I'm being honest.

Ralph Lauren Event- April 2023

Taylor, why are you wearing gray? What do you have against color (Kidding..)

To be clear, I have nothing against the color gray. It's just not my first pick for a color. It comes off as dull and boring for me, but that's just my humble opinion.

For this event, Taylor wore a grey and white ensemble, with a gray shirt paired with a gray blazer and white pants. The overall look may lack color, but do admit that Taylor looks good in it (he looks good in whatever color he wears, to be completely honest).

International Woolmark Prize (IWP) Event- May 2023

Knowing Taylor, he would not pass up on an opportunity to advocate about fashion sustainability while still being fashionable himself, which I honestly love.

During this event with The Woolmark Company, he wore a navy blue ensemble, which is composed of a white tank top and a striped navy blue button-down that is layered by a navy blue coat. He completed his look with black loafers and a pair of necklaces, which add a little shine to his outfit. Again, a simple combination but on him, it looks like a masterpiece.

Take it from Taylor, folks. This is how you advocate for a good cause while also looking good yourself.

Prada (Spring/Summer 2024 Menswear Show)- June 2023

*This is also an excuse for me to post Taylor's unforgettable shirtless entrance photo*

The iconic Prada SS24 Show!! Taylor's fashion week debut (he said so himself during the "Get Ready With Me" video). He really said "this is my first fashion week so I gotta make it memorable". And it was memorable indeed, maybe more for the fans, but regardless, it was an iconic event.

Taylor's photos from this event was one of the first photos that I ever saw of him the moment I became a fan, and it will be one of those events that will forever live rent-free in my mind. I mean, how could I not? Look at the stunning assembly of looks he pulled off for the show. From stepping out of the car shirtless to wearing a white Prada tank top at the end of the day, he surely made the 2023 summer even hotter.

I also love how he made it a designer summer. Prada is a designer brand and then he combined it with some summer essentials like a white tank top and sunglasses. Personally, I love that theme.

Maybe Taylor will be able to beat this on 2024, if he gets invited to the Prada event again (I have faith that he will be).

Givenchy Event- June 2023

It's one fashion show after another, I take it. After Prada (or before, I'm not sure), it's Givenchy.

I got to be honest, this all-black jumpsuit outfit is not my favorite, but I'll make an exception because it's black which is one of my most favorite colors on Taylor. What I love about this is that he made the jumpsuit ensemble not too plain-looking by adding silver jewelry and sunglasses.

This is more of a practical look but hey, something that's both fashionable and functional is what people really look for nowadays.

Tag Heuer Event- July 2023

Let's be honest, it's not Taylor if there was no picture where he does the peace sign.

In this particular photo, I love how his outfit was the dark contrast to the light colors of his background and even to the very couch he's sitting on. His dark outfit is something I can see a warrior in a fairytale wear and I'm not one to complain about that.

This ensemble is something people can wear in the summertime, consider the varying degrees of heat that the summer season brings in every country during the summer months.

Miu Miu Event- July 2023

I would like to point out that this look is very similar to the one Taylor wore to the Tag Heuer event, only with a different brand, but I'll look past that, I guess.

With this look, it still has the summer vibes. I can see people wearing this type of outfit during the summer time where people often opt for sleeveless clothes.

Maybe pair this outfit with your favorite pair of sunglasses, get on a boat and go sailing off into the ocean with the sea breeze in your face and you'll have an unforgettable summer.

Red, White and Royal Blue Billboard Sighting and NYC Street Style- August 2023

Ahhh August, the month where Taylor was catapulted into even more fame (and also the month that I knew of him).

August was the month of the premiere of "Red, White and Royal Blue" where Taylor played his first lead role as Alex Claremont-Diaz. It also premiered in the middle of the 118-day SAG-AFTRA strike, so sadly, there was no red carpet event for the movie but Taylor had to show off his style one way or another.

In the first two photos, it's just Taylor casually walking in the streets but he still looks so good. In the first photo, he wore a blue-black ensemble (two of my favorite colors on him) and the second photo was a contrast to the somehow dark ensemble of the first photo because it shows him wearing a much lighter outfit, which includes a cream vest and green track pants with sneakers.

The third photo is special because it was when Taylor was in New York (Times Square to be exact) with his parents and they went to see the billboard that had the poster of RWRB on it. His outfit is a wool (or cotton) shirt with a mix of orange, brown, black and white colors paired with dark jeans. It was a more casual outfit as compared to the magnitude of what he saw on Times Square that night.

Aperol Spritz Event- August 2023

I suddenly want to have a drink with Taylor and just chill. I mean, don't we all?

With this event, Taylor wore a white tank top underneath a blue striped button-down with matching pants of the same design. I honestly love how the color of his outfit compliments the color of the drink (In art class, blue and orange are known to be complimentary colors because the darkness of blue makes the lightness of orange pop off).

The darkness of the grassy green background also makes Taylor stand out, especially with the angle of this photo, so this outfit is a yes from me. Plus the slightly tousled hair and the little scruff adds more to the chill vibe of the event.

Vogue World: London- September 2023

This was the event that cemented Taylor's status as a prince in my mind. As an avid fan of fairytale stories, his two looks during this event was how I sometimes imagine princes when I read.

The white top with the attached waistcoat and the flared bottoms gives me the vibes of what people in the olden eras of London would wear. Think Victorian/Edwardian era. The second look of the night was this sparkling sleeveless number which is also unforgettable and provided a good contrast to the pristine white top.

I would also like to note that the grey sleeveless top is cropped so a bit of midriff was shown but I'm not complaining since Taylor is cut and fit anyway. These two outfits were really fit for a handsome prince like Taylor who is off to a stunning night in London.

Burberry (Spring/Summer 2024, London Fashion Week)- September 2023

If there's one thing I'm sure about, it is the fact that Taylor will slay even the most common of clothing. In this event, he wore a trench coat that is almost like a raincoat over a plaid long sleeve. It could be a common outfit for people who experience the rainy weather more often, but Taylor rocks it like a masterpiece meant to be exhibited in a fashion show, which is also a lovely idea.

I don't adore this outfit as much as I do the others, but one of the things that I like about this one is the practicality of it. It's a trench coat that can be used as a raincoat if one does not have an umbrella on hand and the rain suddenly started pouring.

Another thing was the idea that Taylor went to London Fashion Week and it generated like the highest media value. Like, that is a record and I'm not mad that he was one of the reasons that happened.

London and Milan Street Style- September 2023

Taylor is one of those people who could make street style look absolutely stunning. He could wear like a super casual combination of clothes like jeans and sneakers but combine that with his charm and you get a photo of him walking the pedestrian lane as if it's a fashion runway or him standing outside of his hotel yet it's gonna look like he posed for a fashion magazine shoot.

His street style in between the gorgeous ensembles he wore attending fashion weeks in London and Milan had fans gasping. Why? Because he looks so good in them.

These are four of my favorite Taylor street-style looks because it’s style and comfort, casual and preppy at the same time. All his clothes look plain at best but it still has the element of shimmer because of his accessories like his signature necklaces and bracelets, which is always lovely to see.

Ferrari (Spring/Summer 2024)-September 2023

Taylor was in his Doctor Strange era during this fashion week and I was so here for that era. It also made me scream because if you don't know, Doctor Strange is one of my most favorite Marvel characters ever!

Taylor could've played a variant of the character because to me, he kind of pulled the reverse version of Doctor Strange. Instead of wearing an all-blue outfit like the character, Taylor wore a dark red turtleneck top with a set composed of a dark trench coat and pants. He kind of completed his Doctor Strange look with tousled dark locks and a bit of stubble.

Honestly speaking, he also gave me a bit of Sherlock Holmes vibes with the trench coat which I honestly love, because I love the Sherlock Holmes stories.

Other than the fact that I completely rambled and disassociated, this look gives immense fall vibes to me, and it's perfect for that chilly stroll around the city while drinking a cup of cocoa or a cup of pumpkin spice latte.

That's A Wrap....for now...

Well, due to the limited amount of images I can put on here, I'm gonna need to put a part 2 for this fashion wrap up. This only means that Taylor had so many good looks this year that this site couldn't keep up with the insane amount of photos (kidding!).

But anyway, here's a link to Part 2 of the TZP Fashion Wrap-Up, so head over there if you want to see more of Taylor's fashion for the year.

#taylor zakhar perez #red white and royal blue #rwrb #fashion show #fashion #style

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yams-here · 3 months

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Redesigned meowscarada because I do like it, there were just a few things bugging me (why does it have the torn up aqua team shorts) so I tried giving it some tuxedo mask/court jester/evil game show host vibes because a dark type cat needs to be a bastard and we need a different type of bastard than incineroar.

Obviously I'm not sharing this to say that my take is the be all Best design for meowscarada I just liked this take I did on the design

#art #digital art #original art #pokemon #pokemon sv #meowscarada #pokemon redesign #redesign

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mochiwrites · 2 years

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good crimes master post!

aka I had to remake the post because tumblr broke my first one </3

welcome to the collection of important posts to the good crimes au! the au is centered around scar/grian/mumbo and their story! scar is mayor of aqua town, grian is his body guard, and mumbo is scar's faithful hit man.

this au is created by myself and the wonderful @idioddyssey <3 (note: there is also hermitshipping/trafficshipping involved in the au, so if that isn't your cup of tea, dni). the au takes influence from hermitcraft season 6 & 7, but has a specific focus on 3rd life lore & characters from the life series in general.

warning(s) for the au: violence, criminal activity, dark themes (n)sfw content, language, guns, alcohol, etc etc.

there is a central discord server if you’d like to join! just press this for the link <3

main tag for the au: #goodcrimeswithmumscarian au

any asks about the au that do not contain lore will be tagged with #good crimes asks

goodcrimeswithmumscarian web

fics.

friend of the devil - main storyline, mumscarian focused.

arts. (side note, if you make any art, please tag both myself and @idioddyssey !!! both of us would love to see it <3)

scar's notes / notes 2 ; @idioddyssey

bang chap. two, bang chap. six , we are windswept ; by @aofikofi / off with his head chap. 2 ; by anon / half a bottle scene by @kotikaleo / gunbo @duckimate

lore things.

ethubpulse / other characters / ethubs meeting / treebark confession / ren and martyn's relationship / treebark fight / scars of other characters / ages / wither rose trio / pearl & impulse / flower husbands lore / world building of aqua town / grian and faces / ranchers / mumbo and cub / grian’s eye contacts /

drabbles ( either things I've written or things others have wrote <3 ).

grian steals scar's clothes / scar braids grian's hair / ethubs drabble ; by @end-st0ne / grumbo drabble / ethubpulse fluff / court case / ren & scar foils / skysiblings moment / pearl and the moon / mumscarian mistle toe /

master post will continue to be updated!

#goodcrimeswithmumscarian au #mumscarian #scarian #grumbo #redscape #mumscar #ethubs #impdubs #treebark #flower husbands #ethubpulse #trafficshipping #hermitshipping

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tropic-havens · 1 year

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The King of Saxony bird-of-paradise, referred to as Kiss-a-ba by the natives of Papua New Guinea and Western New Guinea, as a human interpretation of the male’s loud call. The male bird is black and yellow with a dark brown iris, brownish grey legs, and a black bill with a bright aqua-green gape. The bird has two long 50cm scalloped, enamel-blue brow plumes which can be independently erected at the bird’s will. The male bird’s ornamental head plumes are so unusual that, when the first specimen was brought to Europe, it was thought to be fake. The female is greyish-brown with barred underparts.

The King of Saxony bird-of-paradise likes to eat mainly fruits, false figs, berries, insects, and arthropods. King-of-Saxony birds-of-paradise communicate with vocalizations, body posturing, and movements. The male’s song is a radio-static hiss lasting 4 to 5 seconds. While courting females, the male birds simultaneously sing and perform elaborate movements with their occipital plumes, varying their posture to better attracts the female’s attention.

#papua new guinea #animals #birds #tropical

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atomsminecraft · 1 year

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Ladies, gentlemen, and random abominations on earth(/j), I present to you Aqua’s sprite I saw and now obsessed with

HE’S SO CUTE

I wanna squish those cheeks of his

HIS CHIBI IS SO CUTE

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on-the-pechka · 2 years

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Addressing The Allegations

There is no use hiding it any longer. My fans received a real shock a few days ago when this photo of me leaked online:

First I would like to make clear that this picture was taken in the privacy of my own home and was never meant to be made public. My ex-wife decided to try ruining my prolific blogging career by disgracing me online as revenge after the bored ape she won in the divorce became virtually worthless. I argued in court that the true worth of the bored ape is not the price listed online but the value of being part of the bored ape discord server and getting to network with other members of the world’s most exclusive club. On these grounds, as well as the innate artistic value of the ape, the judge dismissed the case. Still, my bitch ex-wife was not having it.

I know it looks bad, but I assure you, this is one isolated photo and not an accurate reflection of who I am as a person. I do not think Megumin is best girl, I am not a pedophile. Aqua is by far the hottest Konosuba girl, and my true fans know I would never lie about this. I was in a very dark place when this photo was taken (my room), and I am much better now (wife got the house in the divorce). I am not here to make excuses, or even be forgiven, I am only asking that you understand that this was a momentary lapse in judgement that will not happen again. Also, this is not an attempt to distract from the abhorrence of my actions, but at least it wasn’t Darkness. She sucks. Many of my fans trust me to have flawless taste in all matters, and many more trust me with pictures of their feet. To those fans: Thank you, you are part of the reason my wife divorced me and sued me for everything I had, but it was worth it.

I will return to posting soon, I just need some time to collect my thoughts. Thank you to all my loyal fans who continue to support me and do not disclose the extremely inappropriate sexual relationships I have with them. Stay sigma.

#anime #Konosuba #allegations

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pinnacle-pixel · 1 year

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Oh my god Aqua is getting a route !!!

#court of darkness #aqua avari #Cod aqua

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xtallin · 10 months

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ACOTAR ASTRO

Feyre

Sun: Sagittarius (I know she technically capricorn in the books, but she gives more a late December sag feel)- brave, adventurous, literally an archer. Can also be lowkey thick thick-headed.

Moon: Aquarius- not good at expressing emotions/detached, scrappy, can think quickly when she's in a corner. Emotionally responds to people who are also stand-offish.

Rising: Gemini- honest, I really only think this cause she is hard to read for other people. Also would trine with moon, which I Def think fits. Her sun being in the 7th house would also fit considering her taste in men and how men see her and what type she attracts. Her lovelife gives such sun in 7th vibes

Tamlin

Sun: Taurus- the High Lord of Spring def has a spring sun sign haha. He is conventionally handsome, strong, and has a natural beauty about him

Moon: Capricorn- practical, calculating, loyal, and very business oriented especially in ACOMAF. His sun trining his moon is something I'd feel just cause he gives off very earth element vibes. His emotions are very in line with his life goals and purpose.

Rising: Leo- I feel this because his most noticeable features is his long golden hair (like a lions mane ahem) also this would make this square his sun, which I think fits him. Also moon 6th house fits.

Lucien (chose this pic cause finding someone with red hair and no eye is hard.)

Sun: Sagittarius- he's Autumn Court and he honestly vibes with Feyre the most out of everyone in the book imo. Need I also mention red hair?

Moon: Libra- he's got a sharp tongue and a soft heart. A secret romantic. Works more in the shadows than in the presence of others

Rising: Aries- I feel like his emotional side is always clashing with his emotional side. Also I feel like he looks for a sensitive, feminine partner (moon in 7th). Sun trine rising also fits. (Double red hair whammy)

Rhysand

Sun: Scorpio- the platonic energy is so so heavy here. Perfect fit.

Moon: Virgo- he has extreme level emotional control. Constantly able to adjust to any situation he's in and has a secretive caring nature

Rising: Scorpio- okok.. I was thinking capricorn originally because bone structure. But he is the epitome of darkness, dreams and he gives sun 1st/12th house energy. I honestly think his sun conjuncts his ascendant. Also leo would be in the 10th house. Fitting.

Amarantha

Sun: Leo- def evil Leo vibes. Has to be the center of attention, unnaturally beautiful, powerful, and again. How many characters gotta have red hair?? Forreal.

Moon: Aquarius- honestly her sun and moon being opposite is accurate. Especially the competitive, ambitious nature she has. I think the reason Feyre is able to keep up with her is because she is also a aqua moon. Both refuses to quit.

Rising: Scorpio- definitely drawn highly to Tamlin (sun falls in her 7th house) but gives off night court aesthetic (plutonic) I feel like Rhysand's sun would fall in her 12th (hidden enemies). Feyre's rising in the 7th would also fit because they're open enemies (it'd be at the end of the 7th house but still).

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parfumieren · 1 year

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1828: Jules Verne (Histoires de Parfums)

The tallship has just crossed the equator. A junior sailor, newly initiated into the Court of Neptune, descends into the cargo hold. His line-crossing ceremony took place only this morning; his skin is still salty from repeated baptismal drenchings with ocean water. Just for tonight -- as officers and crew celebrate with glasses of port and tankards of rum in their respective mess halls -- he has the run of the place and can go where he likes. Here is where he likes to go.

In the darkness below deck loom crates of lemons, limes, and oranges, barrels of rum and aqua vitae, bundles of Virginia tobacco, and cedar caskets full of spices. The wood -- already fragrant on its own accord -- has been permeated by the scent of nutmeg and black pepper, producing a wholly new and curious fragrance which lifts the sailor's heart. His apprenticeship before the mast has been toilsome and often doubtful. Years from now, skin calloused by work, heart hardened by defeat and sorrow, he may well become as jaded as the toothless, wizened old-timers who barked in laughter at his initiation. But tonight, he belongs to this ship, and it belongs to him. Everything about it -- its crew and cargo, the wide sea upon which it sails -- is beautiful. Curled up in a coil of rope in the full-laden hold, at peace with life's vagaries, he closes his eyes. It comes to him, seconds before sleep descends, that he has never known pure happiness until now. Let the wind and waves rise...

Perfume, like any art form, is a form of storytelling. Every vial of fragrance contains layers upon layers of narrative to be guessed at by the wearer. Sometimes the perfumer's brief provides clues to the plot; other times, it's left to the imagination to interpret all.

1828 is dedicated to the French author Jules Verne, whose fascination with technology and mechanical innovation paved the way for modern science fiction writers such as Philip K. Dick and William Gibson, and has been a primary influence on the steampunk movement. Transportation is a particular fetish of Verne's; submarines (20,000 Leagues Under the Sea), transatlantic steamships and cross-continental trains (Around the World in 80 Days), cannon-propelled spaceships (From the Earth to the Moon), and lighter-than-air craft (The Mysterious Island) all symbolize the quickened pace and boundary-breaking spirit of 19th century life.

Oddly, the perfume named in Jules Verne's honor is neither sleek, fast, nor futuristic. Rather, it is a nostalgia piece, an evocation of an era predating that of the great author: the age of tallships, of Horatio Lord Nelson and the Napoleonic Wars.

Up until 1810, Myristica fragrans -- the tree from which nutmeg and its sister spice mace are derived -- grew nowhere else on earth but Banda, a tiny volcanic island chain east of Indonesia. For nearly 200 years, the Dutch occupied Banda, maintaining a complete monopoly of the nutmeg trade worldwide. But once the British Royal Navy managed to wrest control of the island from the Netherlands, transplanted nutmeg trees began to dot the globe.

To the modern-day nose, the scent of nutmeg still evokes quaint colonial comforts. It's a resolutely anachronistic smell -- and although it would seem to have little to do with the ocean, a nutmeg accord properly embedded in a marine composition will "read" like a Patrick O'Brian Aubrey/Maturin novel.

But where is Jules Verne's place in all this? It's in the clockworks, the gears, the mechanical accoutrements that set 1828 to humming. The trick that this perfume pulls off -- superbly -- is to place a wonderful piece of old-timey scrimshaw in a spare, minimalist, and thoroughly modern setting so that one can no longer tell what century (the 18th? the 26th?) it hails from.

A breezy citrus top note greets the nose first, paired with the smallest touch of eucalyptus to make it fly. A strong middle section of straightforward wood notes lulls you into thinking that perhaps the liveliest moments are over, but at last a radiant nutmeg accord sets in-- rich, cool, weighty, and smooth. This is a scent both Horatio Hornblower and Captain Nemo could wear. (Heck, throw in Morpheus from The Matrix while you're at it. What is the Nebuchadnezzar, anyway, except a supermodern Nautilus adrift in dystopia?)

When a perfume has the power to set all sorts of mental plotlines into motion, you might as well make yourself the hero: steely-eyed, soft-hearted, and guaranteed a new adventure at every latitude.

First, though, you must hear the call of wind and wave.

Scent Elements: Grapefruit, citrus, mandarin, eucalyptus, pepper, nutmeg, cedar, incense, vetiver, pine

#1828: Jules Verne #histoires de parfums #perfume review #parfümieren

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