#asks her to include glinda in their classes

[cometblaster2070]

i'm making myself laugh thinking about this but I wholeheartedly believe madame morrible absolutely HATES the thought of glinda and elphaba being together like the mere mention of gelphie would probably send her into immediate cardiac arrest and it's not even because she's homophobic or anything I just fully believe she dislikes glinda so so much she's just like this is absolutely NOT happening in my house.

glinda and elphaba are having their gay ass moment and she's like "I sense a disturbance in the force; the wind is telling me those fucking lesbians are at it again."

like IK this woman hates to see glinda's fruity ass coming for several reasons but first and foremost I believe it's because she's so fucking ANNOYED by how much elphaba loves and cares for her, like this pink bitch is throwing a wrench in her plans just by EXISTING and being herself.

and she can't even really do anything to glinda because it'll make elphaba upset and she really can't have that so she just has to sit there and be like

[gelphielovebot]

— written mine on my upper thigh

⋆.˚｡𖦹°🫧⋆.ೃ࿔ glinda writes elphaba love notes while bored in class. it starts out innocent, until it becomes something that has elphaba squirming in her seat.

౨ৎ warning: a whole lotta smut

౨ৎ a/n: first time posting smut be nice im shyyy

"glinda, pay attention," elphaba whispered with a stern yet caring tone.

glinda sighed and pouted like an impatient child. "you don't care about my letter."

elphaba turned her head to the sad blonde that was really only faking her sadness to get elphaba to fold.

"glinda-"

"i wrote something really nice."

though out the entire class, glinda had been writing letters to her girlfriend beside her, simply because she was bored and wanting her attention.

elphaba sighed. she gave in quite quickly and opened the note. there were some doodles of hearts and such and then a tiny little paragraph written in cursive about how much she's loves her elphie and how pretty she thought she was.

elphaba would be sure to reciprocate it later but glinda was well aware that during class, her girlfriend was much so locked into the lesson.

glinda knew elphaba wasn't going to open another letter that she threw her way, so this time she wrote it on a bright pink sticky note in big bold letters reading, i need you so bad elphie.

glinda was a woman that said what she wanted straight up and got it. she was a spoiled girl and wasn't shy to say what's on her mind.

elphaba looked down and almost choked on her own dry mouth. the professor looked over at the witch and questioned her, "is there a problem, miss elphaba?" he asked seriously.

"no. sorry, dr dillamond."

the goat continued on with his lesson and elphie gave her girlfriend a serious look that told her she better stop or the consequences wouldn't be very lovely. glinda tried to suppress her laugh behind her hand as everything went down.

but she didn't stop there.

glinda let some minutes go by before she picked up her glittery pink pen and started writing again.

"i was aching for you all morning. thinking about your long fingers inside of me."

elphaba's breath hitched at this particular one and glinda just smirked at her. though, to glinda's dismay, elphie still ignored it. she'd give glinda all the attention she wanted later tonight but right now she had to focus.

however, it began to become hard for elphaba to pay attention to her professors words when there was a throbbing sensation just where glinda was trying to spark it.

as if glinda could read her mind, she placed her hand on elphaba's thigh, making the witch twitch at her touch.

"glinda..."

"shh, pay attention elphie," the blonde whispered, smirking at her with a mischievous glint in her eyes. she was up to no good.

elphaba listened. she payed attention. or at least, she pretended to so no wandering eyes would suspect anything. seconds passed by, glinda's hand slid further, and further, up elphaba's thigh until her fingers, ever so lightly, brushed against her center under her dress.

elphaba jumped out of her seat. everyone, including dr dillamond, looked at her with confused faces, only making her look more like an outcast and a freak than they already made her feel. she needed to play it up, to make an excuse for her sudden burst.

"dr dillamond, glinda's not feeling well. may i help her to the nurse?"

at her name being spoken, glinda stood right up, trying to force down her laugh as to not blow cover. "yes,” glinda said hoarsely and then fake coughed, "very very sick."

neither of them knew if anyone believed them, but their professor excused them for the day. frankly, he was probably just sick of dealing with their antics.

glinda skips down the hallway towards her and elphaba’s dorm with a bright smile on her face that would make anyone who saw her believe that she had just won the lottery or something of the sort. elphie speedily walked in suit behind her, trying her hardest to look mad at the blonde girl. she wasn’t great at acting like that anymore though.

“glinda,” elphaba said and the blonde finally stopped and turned towards her once they made it to their dorm. she put her back up against their door, leaning all her body weight against it, still looking as happy as a clam. “you’re ridiculous.”

“mhm kiss me,” glinda demanded, but didn’t give her a chance because she grabbed elphie by her shirt, pulling her closer and began to make out with her.

elphaba let herself get swept away, feeling drunk on the sweet flavor of glinda’s lips. she pulled away when clarity rushed back to her head. “not in the hallway for everyone to see.”

glinda rolled her eyes, “let them see,” glinda says carelessly. then she puts her mouth near elphaba’s ear and whispers, “let them see how horny you make me.”

elphaba nearly chokes as her throat suddenly feels dry. her face feels flushed and burning. she grabs glinda’s hand, moves her out of the ways and then pulls her into their dorm once she gets the door open.

there’s no time to spare. it feels like there’s some clock ticking down the time for both girls to get a release. elphaba’s the one to pull her into a kiss this time. they both move backwards as their lips combine into one.

glinda’s the one to start unzipping elphaba’s dress and then the green witch follows in suit to glinda. they pull away for a moment and let their dresses fall to the ground, leaving them both in a bra and panties.

they connect again. everything’s so hastily. and somewhere in between, they fall onto the bed. elphaba’s first and then glinda’s right on top of her, straddling her girlfriend.

“i need you to touch me. somewhere. anywhere,” glinda says needily, making direct eye contact with elphaba as she unclasp her own bra. she reveals her perky breast’s in her girlfriends face, implying that she needs to do something to her.

glinda leans back down to kiss the green lips and elphaba reached her hand up glinda’s body to squeeze her boobs, her thumb brushing over her rosy erect nipple which releases of string of moans out of glinda’s mouth.

“i can’t wait long,” glinda says, but her words seem to only come out as a mere whisper, loosing the power in her voice with each second that she isn’t getting off on elphie.

instead of elphaba assuring her that she’d get right to it, she, instead, puts her fingertips at the waistband of glinda’s baby pink colored panties and drags them down her legs. glinda lifts each leg up and shrugs them off until she’s completely bare above her girlfriend.

“can you be good for me now,” elphaba asks, now that she has glinda exactly where they both wanted her.

“you’ll have to find out,” glinda teasingly says with her typical playfulness and then grabs elphaba’s hand and guides it down to her center, making direct eye contact with her girlfriend as her hand presses against her most sensitive part.

“you’re so wet,” elphaba points out. “all for me.”

“all for you,” glinda confirms, breathlessly, “i’ve been like this all morning thinking about you.”

“then we shouldn’t make you wait much longer, should we?” right as she says it, she shoves two fingers between glinda’s wet folds and immediately gets to work by rubbing her swollen clit.

glinda nearly chokes on her on saliva at the sudden unexpected feeling of pleasure. her hand grabs onto elphaba’s toned arm, digging her fingernails into green skin, yet not hard enough to hurt her girl. if she did, elphaba didn’t even notice it because she was too focused on making her girlfriend feel good.

“i need you inside of me, elphie,” glinda says, needing even more than what she was getting.

“spoiled girl,” just then, elphaba slowly slides two slender fingers into her lover. glinda gasps and her head collapses onto elphaba’s neck. and it’s something not even elphaba nor glinda could deny; that blonde witch is completely spoiled 24/7 by everyone but not as much as she is when she’s getting fucked by elphaba.

glinda starts riding her fingers, grinding her hips back and forth. elphaba feels her entire body start to burn when she does this. someone must’ve just thrown a bucket of water on her, she thinks, because it couldn’t be possible for someone to make her burn like this.

“elphie,” glinda whimpers, feeling tears prick at her eyes after waiting so long for this sensation.

“i know,” elphaba coos. she takes her free hand and lightly scratched glinda’s back with it, making the blonde witch almost be sent over the edge.

glinda was extremely touchy with elphaba at all times and so whenever they were making love, glinda needed elphaba to be having some type of external contact with her whether that be hand holding, back scratching, or just running her fingers through her hair.

elphaba moved her thumb so she was simultaneously rubbing glinda’s clit while her two of her fingers pumped in and out of her.

“elphie, i’m so close,” she cried out, words muffled into elphaba’s neck.

“what do you need?” elphaba gently asked, despite how playful they both were just moments ago.

“my neck,” glinda said, “kiss it please.” she sounded so desperate as if elphie wouldn’t have done it. but she did. and her soft lips against her sensitive flesh was enough to finally push glinda over the edge.

“elphie!” glinda cried, louder than a boom of thunder. her body twitched and jerked harder onto elphaba’s hand.

“i’ve got you,” elphaba said in between kisses.

glinda rode her high, her eyes rolling back and she thought she saw oz for a moment. her body eventually stilled when the feeling of pleasure had washed away. her body laid lifeless on top of her girlfriend. her body burning hot and her chest rapidly moving up and down.

“are you okay, my sweet?” elphaba asked like always, even with the knowledge that her girl just needed to recover for a moment.

“mhm” glinda nodded against her neck.

they laid there for a few moments, one of elphaba’s hands scratching glinda’s back and the other still inside of her hence her being too sensitive to remove it just yet.

“you’re so pretty,” elphaba whispers to her girl, drawing a heart on glinda’s bare back with the tip of her nail. she kisses her pink-tinted cheek and it makes glinda blush and smile into her. elphaba can’t see her face, but she can feel her lips turn upwards against her neck, causing her to shiver. “can i take my fingers out, are you alright?”

“yes,” glinda says, and lets her eyes flutter shut as her girlfriend, very slowly, slides her fingers out, careful not to hurt her girl. elphaba then wipes her fingers against the sheets that they’re going to have to wash after anyways.

glinda, still not being finished with their activities, starts kissing elphaba’s neck in order to wordlessly let her know of that. elphie quickly catches on and lets out a content sigh at the feeling of buttery soft lips doing their work against her neck.

elphaba then grabs glinda by the waist and gently flips her over so glinda’s on the bottom now. glinda looks up at her with a soft smile and big lusty eyes. elphaba slithers down her body and leaves a couple of kisses on glinda’s tummy leading down to her core.

“mm your lips are so soft,” glinda says. she always says it but especially now; they feel like a soft melody against her throbbing skin. “i wanna feel them on me.”

“on where?” elphaba knows exactly where but she wants to push glinda just like she pushed elphie in class.

“elphie,” glinda whined in a displeased way.

“tell me where.” the witch raised an eyebrow at her, green eyes locked on her needy girlfriends face.

“elphaba thropp,” she sighed, but quickly realized she wasn’t going to get her way this time without using her words. “i need to feel your lips around my clit elphie, please. need it so bad.”

elphaba truly loved how, even after orgasming, glinda was still so needy for her. she never thought anyone would look at her in this light. let alone the pretty, blonde, popular girl.

finally, elphaba got to work. she started out by kissing glinda’s inner thighs that were slick with her own juices. taking her time on each one as to make glinda feel as loved as possible, and also as a way to work her up.

“i love you,” elphie says before going towards the main attraction.

glinda says it right back effortlessly and then elphaba reaches up and holds glinda’s hand.

elphie started off by sliding her tongue through glinda’s slit a couple of times to lap up her previous orgasms remnants, getting the girl to moan and twitch even more than when she used her fingers. it soon turned into elphaba’s lips wrapped around her clit and her tongue making circular movements around it.

it didn’t take much for glinda to be nearing her climax on the second round. “elphie i’m close,” she whimpered, her legs closing around elphaba’s head. elphie pried her legs back open with her hand that wasn’t holding onto glinda’s.

elphaba looked up at glinda from between her legs, seeing her eyes tightly screwed shut and her face turning a shade of red.

“you’ve got to breathe,” elphaba stops for her moment to say. something glinda always forgot to do when elphaba fucks her like this.

“i can’t,” she said, breathlessly, yearning to feels those lips between her legs again.

“yes you can. focus on breathing, in and out, or you’ll never get there.”

when glinda finally took a breath, elphaba attached her lips to glinda’s clit again, sucking harder than the last time which nearly erupted a scream in glinda. she was thanking Oz that people were hardly in the dormitory during the middle of the day.

more strings of moans and whimpers passed glinda’s lips. her release had hit her quite faster than the first time. her eyes rolled back and her toes curled. every muscle in her body contracted and then released until she was laying there panting.

elphaba came back up so she was face to face with her girlfriend. her lips were wet and puffy and glinda couldn’t help but grab her neck and pull her down into a kiss. glinda moaned, tasting herself on elphaba’s lips.

“you taste so sweet,” elphie said and then kissed her once more, “that’s all you.”

“mm, i wanna taste you now,” she whispered with a little smile, because those words were only for her elphie and she couldn’t risk wandering ears to hear it.

with elphaba still hovering on top of her, glinda’s hand slid down her toned green tummy and past the waistband of her black panties. after all the teasing she did in class, the least she could do was get right to the main course instead of making her girlfriend wait much longer.

glinda’s fingertips were suddenly on elphaba’s throbbing clit, and it happened so fast that elphie’s body jerked forward when she felt it. she let out a gasp, causing glinda to smirk at her. she loves getting her to be a complete mess under her own doing. she loves seeing elphaba finally let go.

“glinda,” she whispers with pleasure laced through her words. she’s typically much quieter than glinda who would scream if she were given the chance.

“mhm. say it louder,” glinda pushes her and presses harder and faster against her clit. she can feel a pulsing against her fingertips. a flower waiting to bloom. a volcano awaiting its eruption. “i wanna hear you scream my name.”

the faster glinda goes, the louder elphaba’s voice gets. she gulped down the knot in her throat as she neared her edge, “fuck glinda! soclose”

glinda smirked and removed her fingers, not remembering the last time she’s heard elphaba curse. the more she thinks of it, she has never heard her use that word.

“not yet,” she says and elphie wants to go and quarrel with her but glinda speaks again before her, “i want you to sit on my face.”

elphaba’s eyes widen when glinda suggests the position they have yet to try. the way she says it makes her ache for her further.

“i don’t want to suffocate you.”

“elphaba thropp, take these off,” she says, referring to the panties that’s glinda is tugging at, “and sit. on. my. face. if that’s the way i go out then i don’t want it any other way,” glinda says with a sudden sternness.

elphaba’s lower belly pools with heat. she can feel herself getting wetter by the second. her words are lost somewhere in her throat. she nods, submitting to the blonde girl in a way she never thought she would just weeks ago.

glinda smiles when she gets her way, pulling the black piece of cotton down toned green legs until they’re somewhere across the room with the rest of their clothing.

glinda lays completely flat, tapping elphaba’s thigh with her pointer finger as a signal to get on her face. elphie crawls closer until her thighs are on either side of glinda’s head.

she hovers over her face and all the blonde witch wants to do is pull her down on top of her. as much as elphaba wants to do this, glinda can sense her hesitation.

“it’s okay,” glinda says sweetly, her demeanor completely changed, “how about i tap your leg if im not okay down here?” she says to ease her anxieties, knowing she won’t ever have to even do that.

elphaba nods, feeling much better about it. glinda grabs elphaba’s hips and pulls her down until her vulva is directly on her mouth. glinda slides her warm wet tongue inside of her and elphaba’s head collapses onto the headboard at the pleasurable sensation.

elphaba lets out quiet whines of ecstasy as glinda continues her ministration’s of her tongue. the blonde witch lightly holds onto elphie’s hips as she thrusts them back in forth to imitate the way her tongue moves.

“feels really good,” elphaba mumbles.

glinda then dips her tongue inside elphie’s wet heat once again, getting her to let out a moan that comes from deep within her throat.

“i’m close.”

glinda speeds it up, impatient to feel and taste her girl’s release in her mouth. elphie’s legs start shaking and closing in on glinda’s head, yet she still doesn’t tap elphaba’s thigh to signal suffocation. she loves the feeling on being smothered by elphaba’s heat.

glinda presses her tongue against elphaba’s clit one last time and that is what unexpectedly brings her to her climax.

“oh my—” elphaba fails to finish what she was saying, being completely taking over by the feeling of complete pleasure.

when she catches her breath, she lifts one of her legs up to give glinda some air and lays down beside her.

“told you i’d be fine,” glinda says and taps her freckles green nose. elphaba giggles at her cuteness. “more than fine. did you like that?”

“yeah, actually, i did,” she answers honestly.

glinda smiles, 90% because she was happy she made her girl feel good, and the other 10% because it was another i told you so moment.

glinda yawned and cuddled closer to her girlfriend. elphaba wrapped her arms around glinda’s body and the blonde girl gently kissed elphaba’s chest before resting her head there.

“i’m so sleepy,” glinda mumbles.

“it’s 2pm, glinda.”

“mm,” she mumbles and says something that is entirely incoherent.

elphaba looks down and realizes that her girlfriend is completely asleep in her arms. so much for the rest of the classes they had that afternoon.

though maybe, just this once, her studies didn’t matter much to her.

[lunaswritingcafe]

"EVERY TIME YOU CLOSE YOUR EYES . . ."

" PROLOGUE "

FEATURING Elphaba & Fiyero (glinda for a small moment!) GENRE angst but some fluff as well. after saving the lion cub, Fiyero and Elphaba share an unexpected romantic moment that leaves him feeling happy but Elphie confused and guilty.

Series list here !!

warnings: small mention of blood, also has dialogue from the movie so it has some spoilers. Also pls do not steal or copy my work, reblogs are v appreciated tho 🫶🏻

“Well someone’s got to do something!” A moment of disbelief and anger is all it was, Elphaba couldn’t believe how obedient and close minded her classmates were. Although she was not friends with the majority of them, Elphie never intended to put them all to sleep with the freshly picked poppies she had gathered that afternoon before class had started. She knew they were her teacher’s, Dr. Dillamond, favorite. He had truly been her one of only friend since her arrival at Shiz. The polen began to take effect as everyone including the staff were fast asleep. She assumed to be the only one awake, giving her the perfect opportunity to free the poor lion cub trapped in the cage, “What is happening?” A voice questioned, making Elphie slightly jump and look to her right. Prince Fiyero, shiz’s new student as well as Glinda’s boyfriend. He was charming, but also self-centered, shallow and slightly irritating. He caught Glinda before her head slammed on the table, “I don’t know, I-I just got mad an-” Elphie cut herself off as he approached the caged lion cub, “Fiyero what are you doing?” She questioned with anger, ready to use her powers again if needed. The prince, carefully as he could, scooped the cub into his uniform blazer, to hide and keep him warm, “Well, are you coming?” He questioned before running out of the lecture room, leaving Elphaba surprised for a few moments before following behind.

The two rushed out to the woods just outside the school grounds, going in far enough to not be noticed by administration, “Here” Elphaba offered, scooping the lion from the prince, “I don’t mean to scare you” She spoke softly, placing him on the ground near a pond, petting him softly with a small yet worried smile, “Why is it you are always causing some sort of commotion?” The prince breaks her away from the cub, fixing his cuff buttons after just taking off his uniform blazer, “I don’t cause commotions, I am one” Elphie replied, still facing the pond, “Yeah, well that’s for sure” He adds. Elphaba narrowed her eyes, yes maybe here at Shiz she hadn’t made a great impression on everyone, but she would not let anyone, especially some stuck up prince, tell her she’s wrong. Elphaba has always stood up for what she believed in, even if the whole world was against her, “So you think I should just keep my mouth shut, is that what you’re saying?” “What? no, no I’m saying-” “You think I want to be this way? You think I want to care this much?” The prince tried to find a moment to speak but she wouldn’t allow it, “I know my life would be much easier if I didn’t care about-” “You ever let anyone else talk?” Fiyero chuckles in disbelief, the two now fully facing each other, “Sorry” She apologizes, used to being so defensive. The two bickered for a few more moments before sitting by the pond, facing their attention back to the lion cub. The small animal was much more calm now, breathing in the forest air and refreshing water, he purred softly when Elphaba drew the back of her finger softly across his fur, becoming more comfortable with her by the minute.

“What did you mean to do back there? And why was I the only one you didn’t do it too?” The prince broke the comforting silence of the forest ambience with the question she feared he asked, because although she wasn’t entirely sure herself, a small sliver of her knew she felt something for him ever since they first met, in the forest after leaving Dr. Dillamond’s quarters, and thought perhaps that's why her magic did not affect him.

“Whoa there!” A male voice spoke, riding at high speed through the dark trees, making elphaba fall on the cold ground covered in leaves and dirt, “I did not see her” spoke the man’s horse, standing still as the man jumped off his horse to help, “Neither did I” He agreed with the mammal. The handsome male adjusted his suit before approaching, reassuring his horse that everything was fine, “So sorry miss, we didn’t see you there you must of . . . “ Elphaba, looking up and facing the man for the first time caught him a bit off guard, but she kept a straight face despite the fear of being trampled on still running through her veins, “. . . Blended with the foliage” “Is this how you go through life?” She is quick to respond “Just running a muck and trampling anyone in your path?” Her voice firm, but not loud.

The man was still stunned by her complexion but was still able to respond, “No” his eyes widened from the situation, taking a glance back at his horse before repeating himself, “Sometimes I’m asleep” A smug look on his face, having a lining of satire in his response. The two stare at each other for a moment, Elphaba clearly not finding joy in his words, “All right, here we go” She finally speaks, setting down her bag “No, I am not seasick” “Neither am I” “No, I did not eat grass as a child” “You didn’t? I did” “And yes, I have always been green” “And the defensiveness, is that a recent development?” His responses were lighthearted but to her cocky, it was interesting though, because no one has ever responded to her questions before, “Hm” was the last he heard from her before Elphaba turned to gather her belongings.

The man’s horse giggles at the situation, which the man can’t help but return a chuckle as well, but quickly cut himself off once he felt her eyes on him again. The man had this charming smolder on, feeling for a moment he be trying to seduce her, she laughed to herself on the inside knowing it was not true. No one has ever or will ever look at her that way, she is not the girl who gains a loving attention from anyone. In this case though she was completely wrong, his gaze was not judgmental but fascinated instead. After looking back one more time, she continued on her original path back to the school grounds, “I’m off for some more trampling, may we offer you a ride?” He asks but she keeps walking to no avail, “No thanks, get stuffed” Her response cold. “Wow” The guy says to himself. In his past whenever he’s ran into a maiden they usually woo over him, he was so used to gaining attention from the female eyes that he never thought there’d every be a day when on rejects him, “Fesville, we have just been spared by a girl” “Indeed” the horse replies.

Elphaba wasn’t sure what this feeling was, it was different, something she had never felt before which was intriguing but terrifying “You’re bleeding” she finally responds, deflecting from his question in order not to let her true feelings slip out, “I’m not” as his eyes trained on the stream of water before meeting hers, Elphie's hand comes up ever so delicately making Fiyero slightly flinch, not in fear of disgust, but because he secretly deep down felt the same thing for Elphaba and knew feeling her touch who just feed more into his temptation, “There” Her fingers lightly grazes the freshly cut scab, trying not to make him wince as his eyes met her, confusion on his face but his heart burning from the inside out, “I must of scratched you” Her hand resting on his cheek, the feeling so nice and loving that he hesitated to pull it away.

It was wrong, he realized that, but he couldn’t deny this feeling any longer, he couldn't deny the somersaults his stomach did whenever she was near him. Certainly at first glance it was shocking to see a green-colored woman as they are not very common, but then he noticed the soft glint in her eyes, how her beautiful braided hair laid upon her shoulder, and damn he’d be lying if he didn't find her stubbornness hot. From the moment they met he knew how defensive she was, it was attractive to say the least but made him sad, angry, that someone could be treated so foul their whole life that every new interaction is started with an explanation for her complexion.

But no longer, no longer would he hold himself back from letting her know how special she truly was, the restraints placed upon his heart by society were becoming undone. “You're beautiful” The prince spoke softly before closing the space between them, his hand now cupping her cheek and the other her waist, dipping her body over the pond, but held her firmly enough so that she wouldn't fall in, and before she could resist, his lips were already on her’s. He was so gentle, so sweet, she hated how he acted so shallow and self-centered because she knew that deep down he was more than just a prince, he had a heart and feelings too, and perhaps he wasn't book smart but nonetheless he still cared deeply for others and apparently the animals too, just like her. It pains her to realize the people in his life treated him more as a trophy than just a human. Her mind became cleared from her thoughts as Fiyero deepened the kiss, his tongue asking for permission. Elphaba hesitated at first but soon allowed herself to give into temptation. So soft, his lips, they were so soft she only hoped he thought the same of her’s. Elphaba wanted him, she wanted more, but instead she opened her eyes and pushed him away.

Glinda was her friend, her new best friend, and although they had a rough start, she was the only person who has ever saw Elphaba for her true self, she was kind, loving and perhaps a bit ditzy but overall more caring than others may realize, she couldn’t betray her like this, how could she after all Glinda has done, “Oh Miss Elphaba, you’re beautiful” the wholesome memory playing through her mind of the two looking in Glinda’s vanity mirror, the blonde bombshell placing light pink rose behind Elphie’s ear, her words mimicking Fiyero’s statement from before “Stop!” Elphaba shouted unintentionally, trying to shut out the thoughts running through her mind. After snapping, she realized that the motion made her push Fiyero forcefully with her magic, “I-I” Her voice lost as her throat became dry, struggling to find the words, “I-I’m sorry” She gasped out of breath before running off back to the courtyard.

Why? When she had just gained a true authentic friendship, why must she go mess it up. She shouldn’t have touched him, maybe if she explains to Glinda what happened maybe she’ll understand, “Elphie!” A sweet familiar voice called out from the fountain located in the middle of the courtyard, “Elphie wait!” Glinda rushes to her friend, “What happened? In the lecture room? Where’s Fiyero?” The questions making Elphaba’s head reel as the guilt began to rush over her again, “I have to go, s-sorry” Her words quick and short before running off. It made Glinda worry, for Fiyero of course but mostly for her friend, she looked pale if even possible and practically sick to her stomach. She looked back towards the direction of her friend but was pulled from her thoughts by Fiyero, “There you are darling, finally decided to wake and bless us with your beauty huh?” Adjusting the buttons on his blazer, acting casual as if nothing had happened.

All well Elphaba never stopped running. She was uncertain of where to go, her bed wasn't an option as her and Glinda shared a room, and the library and diner were usually crowded by this hour. The only other place she could think of was the garden located in the back of the school, where she had met with Madame Morrible on her first day, there she would be able to sort out her thoughts and process the previous events that occurred just moments ago. There was no way Prince Fiyero felt the same right? He couldn't, he'd be blind to choose an outcast over the most popular girl at Shiz. Elphaba sat by the water thinking it was a mistake, a heat of the moment kind of thing and nothing more, after all she is not the kind of girl that ever gets the boy.

" . . . AND FEEL HIS LIPS, YOU'RE FEELING MINE"

[writingsofwesteros]

King's Landing Daily- Wicked takes Westeros!

Daella Targaryen at the King's Landing Premiere of Wicked

The musical phenomena, Wicked, has taken over King's Landing, with the movie's premiere and theatrical debut breaking box office records and garnering high praise for its lead actors. Daella Targaryen since primarily known for her talent in the art of classical ballet, was a shock to most when she was cast as one of the female leads, Glinda the Good. Indeed, while there was never any doubt of her dancing abilities, her singing chops were called into question leading up to the film's release. But the youngest Targtower sibling has been studying performing arts since her days at the very exclusive, elusive private school Oldtown Girl's Prep. When she returned to King's Landing, she worked at a ballet studio while she obtained a degree in Performing Arts. As per her preference for a quiet life, she's stuck to performing at the ballet, and teaching classes to the children of Westeros's Elite, and so a foray into the film industry surprised many- but she hasn't been a disappointment, rather, her performance has left us all, including her harshest critics, struck silent. She attended the premiere with much of her family in tow, it seems that if it's one thing the Targaryens are going to do, it's show up for each other. Much like with the premiere of Baela Targaryen's film on Old Valyria, the family showed up in full force to support Daella. She arrived with her four siblings Aegon, Daenora, Helaena and Aemond, but walked the carpet alone so as to talk to press and greet fans, and take pictures with her cast members. Her mother, Alicent Hightower, attended with her spouses Rhaenyra and Daemon, and to the shock of many, the elusive Hightower patriarch, and Daella's grandfather Otto Hightower, attended with his wife Stevonna. Gwayne Hightower and his girlfriend Sienna arrived not long after them, the family speaking to few members of the press, all of them singing Daella's praises.

Alicent Hightower attending the Wicked Premiere

Alicent answered a few questions for us, and said, "I'm just attending tonight as a proud mother- exceedingly proud. I haven't even seen it yet but I already know it'll be amazing, that my girl will be amazing. She's so talented, and there's nowhere else I'd rather be tonight." She and her spouses didn't linger, Daemon ushering his wives inside quickly.

Helaena Targaryen, sporting her baby bump at the premiere.

Aegon Targaryen with his siblings

Aemond Targaryen making a rare red carpet appearance

Daenora Targaryen

The Targtower siblings graciously stopped and answered some questions, Daenora speaking for the four of them whilst Aegon and Aemond stood with a very pregnant Helaena Targaryen between them. "My sister's been working insanely hard for this, and we're so proud of her. She deserves her moment in the spotlight, for people to see how talented she is and how hard she's worked. I don't care about people who thinks she was wrong for this role, because the minute she opens her mouth to sing, I can say with certainty that those people are gonna shut up pretty quick." She told us. When we asked about Daella's two sons, Baelon and Aenar, and the other young Targtower children, Aegon told us that there'd be a private at-home screening for the kids to see, but Aemond cut our interview short when more questions were prodded about Helaena's latest pregnancy.

Rare public appearance of Gwayne Hightower, Daella's Uncle and Alicent Hightower's brother, CFO of Hightower Banking.

Otto Hightower, CEO of Hightower Banking, Daella's Grandfather, making an appearance to support his granddaughter, he had little comments to the press, except to say, "I'm already exceedingly proud of her."

OTTO MAKING HIS ENTRANCE I AM ON MY KNEES

Aegon looking as delicious as ever, that might be my favourite outfit of his !

Daella looking every inch like a Princess and so soft, you know she smells so good!

Alicent looking as sassy as ever; those doe eyes are just too much!

Helaena looks like a fairy! So sweet and soft, the children loved her dress thats for sure

[dweemeister]

2024 Movie Odyssey Award for Best Picture

Here now are my ten Best Picture winners for the last calendar year. A reminder that films that count towards the Movie Odyssey are movies that I saw in their entirety for the first time over that calendar year. Rewatches don't count.

In other words, these are my top ten "new-to-me" films from my 2024 viewings. I name all ten as "Best Pictures" in alphabetical order. I don't rank them. Any links in the titles take you to my write-ups... regrettably, there are only two:

Adam's Rib (1949; dir. George Cukor)

George Cukor's legal comedy comes with the tagline: "It's the hilarious answer to who wears the pants!" Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn were long-unmarried romantic partners, and their professional partnership included nine films from 1942-1967. Here, he plays a prosecutor; she plays a defense attorney. While in court, Hepburn will claim that a woman’s (Judy Holliday) attempted murder of her adulterous husband is justified. Despite that crazy premise, Adam’s Rib sizzles: this is an ideal movie to watch if you want to know what the comedic and romantic chemistry between Tracy and Hepburn was like.

Awaara (1951, India; dir. Raj Kapoor)

In only his third feature film, Raj Kapoor directed himself, Nargis, and Rithviraj Kapoor (Raj’s father) in a gorgeously made Bollywood movie unafraid of asking questions of class, crime, capitalism/socialism, and personal redemption. The title, which can be translated to “tramp”, is only the first of several aspects in this film reflective of Raj Kapoor’s admiration of Charlie Chaplin’s silent films – humor, pathos, and social consciousness colliding, poetically, into a deeply human work. One of the few ‘50s Bollywood movies to achieve widespread popularity beyond India's borders: it's a touchstone in the former USSR nations, the Balkans, and China. You can watch it here.

The Big Heat (1953; dir. Fritz Lang)

One of two films noir here, this one by German director Fritz Lang (whose film M, from 1931, heavily influenced the creation of noir). Homicide Det. Dave Bannion (Glenn Ford) is investigating the death of a fellow cop when he receives word from “upstairs” to stop. He suspects a conspiracy, and turns in his badge (but not his .38) to get to the bottom of it. How far will he go? The Big Heat benefits from a cavalcade of excellent supporting actors – including Lee Marvin and especially Gloria Grahame. Don’t read reviews or other pieces before viewing this film: The Big Heat contains one of the most vicious moments in film history – unforgettable to anyone who sees it, not just to noiristas.

Detour (1945; dir. Edgar G. Ulmer)

Film noir #2 among this year’s Best Pictures. Edgar G. Ulmer’s Detour was made by “Poverty Row” studio PRC (derisively nicknamed “Pretty Rotten Crap”) and does so much with so little. Unemployed piano player Al Roberts (Tom Neal) is the unreliable narrator recounting how his life was destroyed after hitch-hiking cross-country to reunite with his girlfriend (Claudia Drake) and his encounter with maybe the meanest woman in film noir history, Vera (Ann Savage; what a surname). Detour’s tawdry, yet brilliant, filmmaking and unreliable narration subconsciously creates its own internal logic. This 68-minute film has the tone and rhythm of a nightmare. In the public domain. Best watched in the dead of night, half-asleep. Did you watch or dream this movie?

Dinner at Eight (1933; dir. George Cukor)

Ten years ago? George Cukor’s Dinner at Eight (Cukor again!) doesn’t make this list. I’ve taken a while to come around to comedies of manners. Based on the play of the same name with an adapted screenplay by Herman J. Mankiewicz, Dinner at Eight sees a socialite (Billie Burke, Glinda in The Wizard of Oz) organize a dinner party for all her friends. Also starring Marie Dressler, John Barrymore (whose fallen silent film actor character is alarmingly prescient), Wallace Beery, Lionel Barrymore, and especially a fantastic Jean Harlow, this is a racy, elegantly-costumed witty comedy of high society figures deceiving themselves about their stations in life.

Flow (2024, Latvia/Belgium/France; dir. Gints Zilbalodis)

One of two animated features this year. In only his second feature, Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis delivers a dialogue-free animated feature that follows a black cat and their companions in a boat while they navigate the world, which has been destroyed by water. Made with free software Blender, this is a remarkable production that, like Detour, succeeds beyond its paucity of resources. Zilbalodis – who also was co-producer, co-writer, co-composer, cinematographer, editor, and art director – will tell you not to sweat plot details. This is a movie that is about how one learns to trust and work with others – something that Zilbalodis, usually a one-man show, learned himself while making Flow.

One Way Passage (1932; dir. Tay Garnett)

Along with Dinner at Eight, this is one of two pre-Code films among the Best Picture winners. Tay Garnett’s romantic drama stars two major figures from the pre-Code era: William Powell and Kay Francis. On a monthlong ferry from Hong Kong to San Francisco, Francis plays a terminally ill woman (not that you could tell she was terminally ill) who falls for a murderer (Powell) who has escaped authorities and is bound to be hung. Despite what might appear to be a morbid premise, One Way Passage has a romantic delicateness to it, mixing light comedy with unsentimental gestures for a most curious concoction. Fantastic ending.

Son of the White Mare (1981, Hungary; dir. Marcell Jankovics)

As some of you may know, one of my cinematic blind spots that I am most aware is a blind spot and would like most to address is Eastern bloc animation. Marcell Jankovics’ Son of the White Mare is a mythological movie that takes elements of the creation myths of the ancient nomads of the Eurasian steppe. Our main character is Treeshaker, the third human son of a mare, who has superhuman strength. He later meets his two similarly strong older brothers, Stonecrumbler and Ironrubber. Our trio journey to defeat three dragons spreading evil across the world. Jankovics’ film may be standard folklore, but its visual splendor – bright and bold colors, representational character animation – has never been imitated.

​A Special Day (1977, Italy; dir. Ettore Scola)

No other Italian actors could fit the idea of glamor as much as Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni. And in Ettore Scola's Una giornata particolare, the two inhabit roles far away from their public and on-screen personas. On the day of Hitler's arrival in Rome on May 3, 1938 to citywide celebrations, a housewife (Loren) and a recently-sacked radio announcer (Mastroianni) have a chance encounter. With everyone else in the apartment complex away to watch the pomp and circumstance, the two discuss their lives, their disappointments, and the expectations hoisted upon them by others. Both actors tap into their wartime experiences to deliver performances among the best of their careers.

20 Days in Mariupol (2023, Ukraine; dir. Mstyslav Chernov)

“It's painful to watch. But it must be painful to watch.” So narrates director Mstyslav Chernov. Produced by the Associated Press and PBS for the latter’s Frontline, 20 Days in Mariupol is a war documentary that captures the twenty days that Chernov and his fellow AP photojournalists spent in Mariupol at the beginning of Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine before their dangerous escape. With spare narration from Chernov (that I think I could’ve done without), we see moments unfold that became some of the most infamous images of the conflict in those early weeks – all involving the suffering and deaths of civilians (including children). Essential journalism, harrowing filmmaking. Available on Frontline’s YouTube.

[wilygryphon]

ML + Wicked + Percy Jackson w/ Rooster!Juleka, Backwarder, and Shadybug

Elphaba Thropp, Marinette Dupain-Cheng, Juleka Couffaine, and Luke Castellan enter Shiz University the same year.  Elphaba, Marinette, and Juleka’s status as outcasts, particularly in contrast to the pink, preppy, and popular Galinda Upland and Chloé Bourgeois, lead to them being shuffled together and becoming friends.  While Elphaba studies under Madame Morrible to hone her sorcerous powers, Marinette helps Juleka understand and practice her own ability to grant herself different powers, and Marinette also uncovers and activates a clockwork automaton, which introduces itself as Marianne and reveals that it is imbued with time magic.

Beasts are an oppressed class, with many driven to losing their sapience by being forced out of society, resulting in many turning feral and savage and often attacking humans.

The girls take a stand for Beast rights as bigots target the last Beast working at Shiz, Professor Chiron.  This gets the attention of another student, Luke Castellan, who cynically counters Elphaba’s belief that they should ask the Wizard to help the Beasts by arguing that the Wizard doesn’t care about Beasts and probably facilitated the propaganda against them.

Elphaba meets the Wizard and learns of his true nature, so she steals the Grimoire and rebels against him.  Meanwhile, Luke sneaks into the Emerald City and the Wizard’s castle using an invisibility helmet, confirming his suspicious, and steals a brooch that lets him conjure artificial entities given life from his emotions.  As the Wizard and Morrible declare Elphaba to be a traitor and an enemy of Oz, Luke recruits many students to leave and form a rebel faction with him, including Juleka.  He creates a Sentimonster to help him communicate to the savage Beasts, whom he recruits into his army.  Shiz is left in chaos with many remaining loyal to the Wizard but others not sure what to think.  While the Wizard and Morrible pressure Glinda and Chloé to dispense propaganda and be the faces of unifying Oz against the rebellion, Marinette is manipulated into becoming the Wizard’s enforcer in hunting down the rebels.  Marianne is her only true friend remaining throughout this.

Take ML, the last movie you watched and the last book you read and smash them together to make a crossover AU featuring Rooster!Juleka, Backwarder and Shadybug

[lovelyirony]

if you’re taking prompts uhh “the darkness encroaches (you keep it at bay)” idk for who maybe tony?

Tony, for one thing, did not like the fact he was apparently part of a long line of magic-users. 

His mom had always been tight-lipped about her own family history, even after she left dad and they moved back to New York. 

Tony had asked one time about her family. They had to talk about family history in one of his classes, and there was no way in hell that he wanted to talk about Howard in any capacity that was even neutral. (After all for his debate class, he was talking about how much he sucked in terms of universal weaponry policy.) 

Mom had given him a sharp look from the kitchen counter, and even though she was wearing rubber gloves and her hair was pushed back by a bandana that had little Mickey Mouse print on it, she still looked terrifying. 

“They’re not worth mentioning, Tony. Make something up.” 

“Geez, okay. Touchy subject...” 

“Not touchy. Just not worth the time.” 

Tony didn’t make a comment after that, because in all honesty he and his mom have never been excellent liars to each other, and this time is no exception. 

He does make up his family history. He knows his family is probably from Italy somewhere, they moved in...1923? Yeah, that sounds good. And he’s named after an uncle. 

(He isn’t.) 

Tony doesn’t ask his mom again because he knows that she won’t give in or break down to answer his questions, and there’s probably good reason why he doesn’t know. 

- 

Oh, there’s a reason alright. 

- 

He likes science. He likes understanding things. In his (correct) opinion, magic is just science that no one understands yet. Everything has an explanation. 

Well. 

He accidentally set an asshole’s Mustang on fire. 

To be fair, he was an asshole. He had been talking over the professor during every single slide in the lecture presentation for his lecture, and Tony had just about yelled in frustration. 

So instead as he saw the guy rev his engine for his stupid fucking car and make a whole big scene about how he had a Mustang, how fucking cool is that you absolute shit-heel of a person-

Fire. 

Nothing serious, but Tony knows he did it. 

He could feel how his hands twitched, how something came to him and from him. Something not normal. 

Or at least if it was normal, health class never came close to covering it. 

- 

But it’s a one-time thing, he thinks. He’s not really doing anything else, so maybe it only happens when he’s really mad? That’s probably it. That has to be it. 

Except the ramen that he likes at the grocery store is on the top shelf, and Rhodey wandered off to get actual food, and so he can’t reach it because he’s not a freak who is like 6′4″. 

It floats. 

It fucking floats. 

The sweet-chili-ramen floats into his cart and Rhodey sees it, and he stares. 

"Either I took an edible and it finally kicked in, or you just did something that definitely isn’t supposed to happen.” 

“Maybe the latter,” Tony says faintly. 

“Oh,” Rhodey says. “Do you think we have time to get that queso you wanted, or do we have to pay for the groceries and go to the car to process?” 

“Queso over my mental state,” Tony responds automatically. “Let’s go.” 

-

They eat in silence when they get to their apartment, and they don’t say anything for about ten minutes. 

“So. Do you think you can fly on a broomstick?” 

“What? No!” Tony exclaimed, but pausing. “Well, I’ve never tried before, so...” 

“Then we have to try. For science reasons,” Rhodey says. “Where the fuck do we get a broomstick?” 

So...

As it turns out, you can’t really get a traditional broomstick, so they went to the store and bought a mop. 

“They have a mop, but not a broomstick?” 

“To be fair, it is April.” 

“Why does that matter?” 

“Well,” Rhodey starts to explain, “April showers bring May flowers, but also wet boots into the hallway. Also, it’s not your holiday yet.” 

“Well yeah, it’s not May yet.” 

“I didn’t mean your birthday, dipshit. I meant your holiday.” 

“What the fuck is my holiday?” Tony demands. “No one has a ‘celebrate Tony Stark’ day in their calendars, as far as I or my ego knows, so-” 

He stops. 

“Oh, you little shit.” 

“I’m not little,” Rhodey brags. “I’m taller than you.” 

“For now.” 

“For permanence!” 

“I’ll make you pay for this broomstick with the last ten dollars in your checking account.” 

“Then I’ll tell Jarvis!” 

“Damn your need to know my family,” Tony curses. “Fine.” 

- 

Tony can’t fucking fly on a fucking mop. 

- 

One broken arm later and a phone call to his mother later, Maria Carbonell is sitting on her son’s dormitory mattress and wondering just why the hell he lied to her about how he broke his arm. 

Here was her son’s lie: 

“Um. I broke my arm because dinner sucked.” 

A.) There was no follow up. 

B.) Her son is bad at lying as she is. 

Unfortunately, she did not announce her arrival, and so she gets Tony’s roommate opening the door and screaming that the liquor is in the second cabinet from the left. 

Maria raises one eyebrow. 

“Did Tony at least pick out good wine?” 

“Uh...you’re Tony’s mom?” 

“Yes.” 

“I didn’t think you were coming to visit until move-out.” 

“I...we had an interesting conversation. You wouldn’t happen to know why Tony actually broke his arm, would you?” 

“Um...no.” 

(Rhodey is also a bad liar.) 

- 

Tony gets home about ten minutes later and promptly says: 

“Oh fuck.” 

“Is that any way to greet your mother?” Mom asks, already sipping delicately on her glass of water. 

“Um...move-out isn’t for another month.” 

“I know. But you lied to your dear mother.” 

“How did you know?” 

“You can never hide anything from your mom, and your excuse needed work, honey,” Maria answers. “So. How did you break your arm?” 

Tony sighs. 

“Promise me you won’t laugh. And don’t tell Jarvis.” 

“What did you....what?” 

- 

The mop. 

Maria doesn’t laugh at first, at least until she sees the pictures that Rhodey took and chuckles. 

“You promised me you wouldn’t laugh!” 

“What were you doing? And why?” she asks, laughing. Tony rubs the back of his neck nervously. 

“Um, well...funny story...” 

- 

Maria should have known that her son would have her...abilities. But she had hoped that if he had never known the family, had never known what she could do, that maybe...maybe they wouldn’t come. 

“So what you’re telling me,” Tony says, nostrils flaring, “is that there’s magic?” 

“Yes,” Maria says. “And what we deal with specifically is good magic.” 

“Oh, so I could’ve put Glinda the Good Witch on my family tree project,” Tony says sarcastically. 

Maria scowls. 

“Don’t sass me, Tony. I did it for your own good.” 

“I set a car on fire!” 

“Well, what kind of car was it?!” 

“A Mustang!” 

“Then that makes sense!” Maria says. “Your father drove one, and we all know how that turned out!” 

Tony blinks for a moment. 

And then laughs. 

Maria starts laughing too, until they’re both giggling in the apartment, and Tony tells her about the grocery store incident. 

- 

Mom tells him, essentially, that they have a job: defend from the darkness. She doesn’t say if the darkness is someone or a group or a concept. She just says that she’ll send him some of the spell-books (fucking spell-books!) over and talk about how emotions and different hand motions can affect how spells go. 

“So, why never the family? I mean, you could’ve told me about them and then just not mentioned the magic portion,” Tony asks when he’s moved back into their house, and has grilled Mom on just about every single page in the book. 

“Because as much as your father is a terrible person, you’re still like him in some aspects,” Maria says. “And you are stubborn and don’t let information go. You want to know how everything works, and that includes family. You would’ve been wreaking havoc since you were eight.” 

“I was already wreaking havoc when I was eight,” Tony whines. “But, this also raises the question of when are we doing a family reunion?” 

She stops, looking at him. 

“They weren’t exactly pleased when I married a millionaire.” 

“Not even when he became a billionaire and you got half his fortune?” Tony teases. 

“Not even then,” she answers. “I have a...complicated relationship with magic.” 

“As in, you don’t use it.” 

“Correct,” she answers. “You don’t need magic in your life, and quite often, it gets you in more trouble than you anticipate.” 

“Are you going to give me a ‘magic has consequences’ speech?” 

Maria laughs. 

“No. Magic, as far as I know, doesn’t really have consequences. The actions you do have consequences. You could blast up an entire country and as long as you don’t get caught, no consequences other than what you do to yourself.” 

“Like having guilt?” 

“Like having guilt. But enough about that, it’ll make you feel weird for a week if you keep thinking about it. I want you to light candles from two feet away.” 

“Of course I can do that,” Tony scoffs. 

“Sure you can.” 

-

Tony also sets the curtains on fire! 

- 

Maria realizes that her son is perhaps just a tad (okay, a lot) more powerful than she was (and is). 

So, she regrettably calls her mother. 

- 

Nonna Carbonell is a very imposing figure. A woman who is four-foot-eight and about seven-feet-tall in terms of personality, and dresses only in questionable 1970s-print dresses. 

“Ah, so you finally come back home, Maria. And you brought your boy! Who I only see twice in the magazines!” 

“You know exactly why I didn’t come back, Mama,” Maria says, rolling her eyes. “But enough about that. You need to teach Tony.” 

“Antonio,” Mama says, grinning at him and pinching his cheeks. “Ah, so good to see you have the Carbonell nose, your father was ugly as a mule.” 

Tony pointedly does not say that everyone else seems to think that he is the spitting image of his father, but...

His mom and Nonna do not get along, if family dinner is anything to go by. Tony’s lucky that his mom got him at least some Italian lessons so he’s not completely lost with all of his aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

He sees pots and pans coming off the shelves themselves. Ladles and knifes dance out of the drawers. 

His baby cousin-Geraldine, who is only two-is waving her fingers lackadaisically, and in what seems to be no effort, her bottle of juice is off of the counter. 

Great. A two year old is better at magic than he is. 

- 

Nonna is a great teacher, who also happens to terrify Tony with how much she can do. 

“You’re important,” she grins. “You have more power than your mother, thank God.” 

“Why thank god?” Tony asks. 

“You always thank God, Tonio,” Nonna says, waving the curtains shut. “Now, let’s see you get the flour off the shelf.” 

“Are you sure you don’t want me to get, like, a salt shaker?” 

“If you spill the salt shaker we get the devil!” Nonna declares. “Flour is better.” 

It is not better. It turns Nonna into a ghost, and Tony has to spend ages dusting it off his black jeans. 

“Maybe pepper shaker next time,” she says weakly.  

- 

Tony does call Rhodey. He was supposed to go on a road trip to see him, and now he’s in Italy learning how to fling flour sacks across the kitchen at his idiot Uncle Theo. 

“How goes your magic training you fucking nerd?” 

“Literally I call you, and that’s how you greet me?” 

“I told my DnD group that you moved to Italy to play on a campaign for a worldwide championship.” 

“You are quite literally the worst friend ever.” 

“False, because when I moved out I found your favorite Black Sabbath shirt and am saving it for when you move back. Please tell me you’re moving back so I can plan friendships accordingly.” 

“I’ll be back. Who knows, I might be able to help with some lifting.” 

“I still don’t trust your noodle arms, no matter how much ‘magic’ you have now.” 

“Hey! They’re not noodles!” 

“Says you, noodle-arm boy.” 

“I’m going to curse you into a toad.” 

“There’s no way you can do that,” Rhodey says, laughing. “I guarantee you that you wouldn’t be able to turn me back.” 

“And then we’d have so much more space in the apartment, darling.” 

“But then I wouldn’t have to pay rent! Huzzah! And I wouldn’t have to do my stupid business classes!” 

Tony laughs. 

“I’ve missed talking to you, Rhodey. I can’t wait until I get to come home again.” 

“Me too,” he responds. Tony can practically feel his smile through the phone. 

There’s yelling that Rhodey can hear, something about “come back here you American bastard and learn how to knit with magic!” and a hurried “goodbye, love you” from Tony. 

- 

Tony does get good at magic. He gets very good. 

It’s terrifying to Maria, really. 

Darkness has always existed, and it will always exist. Their family exists as a way to keep it balanced, and Tony...

He plays with magic as if he’s always known it, now. He can do things that not even the older family can do. He has meshed magic with mechanics, and he’s started on ideas that Maria was quite sure no one had thought of. 

- 

And then, of course, family does what family does best: 

They tell you things you should’ve known about three months earlier. 

-

With most families, the thing that they don’t tell you is something like “oh, Aunt Margaret made a terrible choice in husbands again.” Or perhaps “did you see his tattoo? Who in their right mind gets a Sonic the Hedgehog tattoo on their chest?” 

- 

With this family, it is the fact that darkness is coming within the next four years, and Tony is probably their only chance. 

“Why didn’t you tell me?!” Maria hisses at her sister. 

“Because you moved to America!” Gia hisses right back. “We can’t afford to collect call every single time we had trouble.” 

“You couldn’t tell me that the darkness is approaching way sooner than we expected?! Because what, you didn’t want to pay for a phone call!” 

“To be fair, Nonna made that decision,” Enzo says. “She thought we could handle it. And we can! We can!” 

“Oh sure, that’s why Nonna told me that my son is your only chance,” Maria says, dry tone to her voice. “God, I need wine...” 

“Everyone needs wine, it’s practically a requirement,” Gia says. “Don’t worry. Things will work themselves out.” 

“But will it work out for us?” Maria asks. “I don’t want to be the modern model for the next pietà someone wants to make...” 

- 

Tony, unfortunately, is his mother’s son and has listened in on every single conversation that’s ever been had in their house. Here are three things that he has learned: 

1.) Apparently, his mother used to bake the best bread, and they forgot to write and ask her for the recipe, and they also didn’t call her. 

2.) He’s the last hope for everyone of existing with good things, and no one’s sure how to beat the darkness and he has no clue how to. 

3.) Apparently his grandfather (named Basil, of all names) could out-drink anyone and had publicly threatened at least six government officials just because he wanted to see if he could. 

- 

You will notice that one of these facts is most likely important than the others. 

Who the hell names their kid Basil? 

(Just kidding.) 

- 

Tony gets back to the US, promises his mom that he won’t tell anyone, and then immediately tells Rhodey when mom goes to the grocery store. 

“Wait, so...they’re trusting you?” 

“I know! What a terrible idea!” 

“God, I know. You can’t even clean a microwave.” 

“That was one time!” 

Rhodey laughs, tackling Tony in a hug. 

“I know, I know. Welcome back, Tones.” 

He feels safe. Protected. 

- 

He has to learn how to fucking throw knives. Mom has decided that she is going to call in a favor from Howard, and it involves dragging Tony to a most-likely-illegal-pseudo-government-set-up and training under a guy who goes by Hawkeye and a lady who goes by “Black Widow” and expects Tony to be fine with it.  

Rhodey also attends, because Tony appreciates misery with company. 

Plus, they can complain together as they’re getting their asses kicked. 

“Do you ever think about taking a vacation?” Rhodey asks, panting as Natasha once again slams him down on the mat. “I’m sure that Florida or the Philippines would appreciate you. Tourism or the economy, or something like that.” 

“You’re not getting out of your fighting lessons by bribing me with a nice vacation,” Natasha says simply. “Tony, adjust your left arm. You’ll break it when Clint comes into contact.” 

“Maybe I want to break my arm!” Tony declares. 

“Do you want to have to wrap your cast in plastic every single time you shower?” Clint asks. “Because that’s what’ll happen.” 

“Why don’t you just spray the cast with some sort of waterproofing spray?” 

“Would that even work?” Clint asks. “Because you might have just blown my mind.” 

“It might work, I don’t know,” Tony says, panting. 

-

It is eight months when Tony first brushes with darkness. 

It’s the morning, which is...odd. He wouldn’t think that darkness would show up in the morning, but here he is on his morning walk trying desperately hard to fight it off and also not grab attention. 

He manages to slam it down on the road and have a car run it over, and for the most part, the darkness retreats. He sends it off with a curse, and he runs all the way back to the apartment. 

Rhodey frowns. 

“We probably need other people, right?” 

“A regular family reunion and then some.” 

- 

So as it turns out, they’re not getting a family reunion. At least, not any time soon. 

Apparently, Nonna is demanding that they have to be there from October 31st through December 7th, according to Holy Days of Obligation and Holidays (specifically, Christian holidays.) 

“Nonna, isn’t witchcraft considered illegal or something?” Tony asks. “Like, I thought the church didn’t like that.” 

“Too bad, too late. We stay. Talk to your mama, Tonio. She will have answers.” 

-

Maria has absolutely no answers! 

“I didn’t seek out witches who live here, baby,” she says, pressing a kiss to his forehead. “Why don’t you email people? Ask around?” 

“You can’t just ask people if they’re a witch!” Tony cries. 

“Why not?” 

“Because you get people who think you’re insane, or they’re insane!” 

“So?” 

“...good point.” 

- 

Pepper Potts is not sure why she answers the post. It is probably something else not related to what she does. Maybe she’ll be meeting with weirdos. But when you get an ad that’s about “stopping darkness from engulfing the world in two-to-four-years: you wanna help?” you listen to that. 

So she answers, and she walks in her business-casual outfit, and she meets two guys who are sitting at a shitty folding table at the park. 

One of them is wearing cargo pants. 

“Are you here about the darkness?” one of the boys says, blinking up at her behind gigantic glasses. 

“Um. Yes?” 

“Good. My name is Tony, this is Rhodey in the terrible pants. And you are?” 

“Um. Pepper?” 

“Oh, cool name.” 

“Thanks, picked it out myself.” 

Rhodey laughs. 

“Good. Now, what kind of magic stuff can you do?” 

“I’d hardly call it stuff.” 

“Tony uses his to make us ramen while we marathon a crime show, I’m calling it stuff,” Rhodey defends. 

Pepper watches around her, and satisfied with the lack of people around, lifts Rhodey out of his chair and floats him about thirty feet over. 

When he jogs back over, he’s grinning. 

“Very cool. What else?” 

Pepper is well-versed in technique, spells, and a few tricks that Tony doesn’t know about involving manipulation of light. 

“How can you do that?” 

“Practice,” Pepper says. “And a late-night conspiracy theory documentary.” 

“Cool,” Tony and Rhodey say at the same time. 

- 

Pepper actually doesn’t live that far away, and she goes to the same college. They see a lot more of her and become friends. 

She helps them update the spell-book, get it organized online, and focus on finding out where the darkness is going to appear next. 

- 

Tony is trying very hard not to break down from stress. He’s barely twenty, ate ramen for lunch and dinner yesterday, and is not very sure that he can do this. 

People keep telling him that he’s the only hope they have, and he doesn’t want to be that. 

He just wants to have a regular summer and make fun of Rhodey’s questionable fashion choices. 

He doesn’t even know how to defeat this. At all. And he just wants to graduate college, and get a job somewhere and annoy his mom into teaching him how to make homemade pasta. 

Not...not this. 

But you don’t get to choose what you have to do for others. You have to do what they need. 

Rhodey, at least, understands this. 

- 

That is why he is outside of Tony’s door with a half-cold burrito of questionable origins, a smile, and no knowledge of personal boundary space. 

(Not that Tony minds.) 

“Hey,” he says. “So, you have to save the world and I still remember the fact that you forget to get your shit out of the microwave.” 

Tony laughs at that, taking the proffered burrito and biting into it. 

“You still have shitty taste in burritos. Where is this even from?” 

“A badly-painted truck two blocks from here. I think I was their first customer of the day.” 

“No shit,” Tony says, taking another bite of the burrito. “You want to watch a movie or play a video game?” 

“Movie. Something light.” 

- 

This is how they get to watch a movie that honestly doesn’t mean anything to either of them, but it is mindless and it allows Rhodey to sneak his hand over Tony’s, and it allows Tony some sort of happiness that at least Rhodey is still by his side. 

“Hey Tony?” 

“Yeah?” 

“You think if I managed to find an actual broomstick, you could fly it?” 

“Oh, fuck you!” Tony laughs, tossing a pillow over Rhodey’s face. 

“I’m serious. You managed to charm the coffeepot into being sentient, so...” 

“That was a mistake, and now we’re stuck with Maggie, don’t bother her.” 

But it does have him thinking. 

If he can charm a coffeepot, what else could he charm? 

- 

A suit of armor. 

That’s what he charms. He was originally shooting for a broomstick, but then Pepper surprised him and now he has a charmed suit of armor that stands in the hallway of his mom’s old house. (Their base of operations.) 

It gives him an idea. 

Why not combine the old with the new? 

After all, it’s not like darkness hasn’t adapted to hundreds of years of battles. Why not throw a curveball? 

- 

“I don’t like using my major,” Rhodey whines as Tony makes him lift one of the arms for his own suit. 

“Too bad,” Tony teases. “I’ll get you pizza after.” 

“Promise?” 

“Mostly.” 

“Good enough for me.” 

Pepper thinks they’re both idiots, at least until she gets her own suit and is positively thrilled when she looks like she’s a superhero from a television show. 

“Yeah, yeah, we look cool.” Tony says. “Now, who’s ready to learn how to conduct magic and electricity at the same time?” 

It works out better than anticipated, all things considered. 

- 

“You ruined the couch, Anthony Edward Stark-Carbonell!” Mom fumes. “The couch! Where I sit!” 

“To be fair, it’s a really ugly couch,” Tony says weakly. “And it’s, um, for the betterment of...magical society?” 

“Don’t you dare quote your Aunt Gia at me!” Mom goes on muttering in Italian, and it sounds suspiciously like “why did I have to have a son who blows up couches” to Tony. 

- 

The darkness comes in full-force on a Saturday night, which is really inconvenient for a lot of reasons: 

1.) A Saturday? Really? It couldn’t come on, like, a Thursday? 

2.) They’ve been celebrating Rhodey’s birthday and perhaps Tony has enjoyed two or three drinks and gotten a pleasant buzz out of it, all things considered. 

3.) It’s midnight. Why midnight? That’s late, Pepper wanted to get to bed. 

4.) Mom is going to kill them, because technically they weren’t supposed to be out on the town. 

 -

So here they are, panicking and throwing shitty restaurant chairs around in order to main some sort of ahead-of-the-game mentality. 

“Do you think if we called your mom, she would help?” 

“She would probably kill me first!” Tony wails. 

“Before darkness can?” 

“Probably!” 

- 

Maria won’t kill her son yet. 

Yet. 

But god she’s going to come close. 

“You could’ve just asked me to buy you wine!” she says. “You could’ve had a movie in!” 

“Well sorry, I didn’t think that the darkness was going to come on Rhodey’s birthday!” 

“Oh when would you have thought it would come? Next Thursday? Or something more convenient for your year?” 

“I mean, when I have to visit Howard over the summer, that would be beneficial.” 

“I’ll make up a different excuse,” Mom hisses, deflecting a tendril of darkness from the window and wincing as it smashes a painting down from the wall. 

- 

The fight is a hard one. All good fights are. (Although the best fights are ones that are over in five minutes, give or take.) 

It’s been hours, Tony is tired, and honestly he really is debating calling a break and going to get a shitty fast-food burger. 

Rhodey says “no” even though his stomach is growling. 

Pepper has been having fun finding new ways to animate cars, but she’s getting tired. 

- 

And then it gets all of his family that he’s made. 

He can see Rhodey writhing in it, can see his mom fight it off, and watches Pepper scream. 

Tony is not sure if he can do it. 

But he has to. He has to beat this fucking terrible thing back because if he doesn’t, everyone else dies. And they don’t get families, they don’t know what will happen. 

(And he also really wants to plan a vacation with Rhodey and Pepper next year.) 

So he takes himself and all of what he knows, and launches himself directly into it. 

-

By all accounts, he wasn’t supposed to do that. But he hasn’t been able to cut it down into a more manageable size, so he figures that maybe it’s time to try something that has never been advisable by anyone on either hemisphere of the world, or anyone who has ever been rational. 

Going into darkness is a very difficult thing, because for one, you can’t see shit. 

For a second thing, he can hear everything. 

Darkness is not just absence of light. It can be absence of every single damned good thing on the earth, in your head, or anywhere around you. Some people have described it as hell. 

Tony is alone, and he is not sure what to do. 

There’s a table, and there is someone sitting there. 

“So.” 

The woman is stirring an olive around her martini, and she looks impeccably dressed. A fitted skirt and suit, manicured black nails, and eyeliner that looks impossibly intricate. 

“You are...?” 

“The person you’re supposed to destroy.” 

“But you’re not exactly a person, are you?” 

“Smart guy. No, I’m just the personification of what you’re fighting. You intrigue me, Tony Stark.” 

“Just Tony.” 

“Fine then. Tony.” 

“Why do I intrigue you?” 

“Most heroes are alone,” darkness says. (Does he capitalize her name? He’s not sure. “They go alone, they don’t involve people in their struggle. You have involved your family, put them in danger.” 

“They would’ve been in greater danger if I had gone by myself,” Tony says. “People have a nasty habit of sticking together, you know.” 

“Do they now?” 

“Yeah,” Tony says. “And now, I have to make sure we stick together anyways.” 

“And what do you mean by-” 

He’s already lunging at her. 

She wasn’t expecting him to lunge, he guessed. 

She goes down, and yells. 

Tony scrabbles to fight again as she sends out a blast his way, and he ducks. 

“You can’t hide from me!” she yells. 

“I’m not trying to!” he yells back. “I’m just trying to kill you!” 

The fight goes on, and she plays dirty. Her nails tear into his armor, and he tears his fingers through her hair. 

“You can’t beat me,” she howls, triumphant as she manages to pin one of his legs down, and trying to claw at his face. “Darkness always exists! You would be nothing without me!” 

Tony pauses for a second. 

“So what you’re saying is...as long as you exist, so does everything else?” 

“Yes!” 

Tony grins. 

“Aw, you shouldn’t have told me that honey.” 

With darkness being the beginning, everything else comes forth. Tony summons his cousins, his family, Rhodey, Pepper. 

And eventually, her physical form gets smaller and smaller. 

- 

Darkness is not something that can be eradicated from your life. But you can beat the shit out of it with help. Tony learned that. 

He also learned that Rhodey has a phenomenal flying kick. 

- 

They spend the following day laying on the couch or adjacent chairs and staring at the decorations that they need to replace. 

They also learn that Nonna has learned how to call, and is not quite sure if she can be heard or not. 

“TONIO? TONIO! WHERE ARE YOU?!” 

“Nonna, quiet,” Tony groans. “I literally just saved the world yesterday, please don’t yell.” 

“I HAVE FOOD FOR YOU. COME TO ITALY. NEXT WEEK?” 

Tony groans. 

“Sure, Nonna. I will come.” 

“BRING FRIENDS. HAVE GIFTS FROM POPE FOR YOU.” 

“You...when did you have time to get gifts...the pope?” 

“HAVE FRIENDS. COME!” 

Tony looks at Mom, Rhodey, and Pepper. 

“So. When should we leave for next week?” 

[rosileeduckie]

And there was only one broom

We can only all fit if we squeeze together. Anyone opposed? Thought not.

Elphaba agrees to help Glinda with her flying skills, but the lesson becomes quickly informal and with all the more good company when Fiyero joins them. For @thisswitchisacertifiedbitch, who asked for some “movie nights,” “multiple lers,” and “getting stuck” for some holiday fun! You also asked for any musical, so, dear, I went Wicked because I needed some wlw and poly ship content for my holiday fun :) Hope you like it!!  As always, thank you @ticklygiggles for hosting this event! Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Happy Squealing Santa!

SFW. Potential warnings: none. Wicked tickle fic.

Word count: 2,493

~*~

Elphaba’s preferred Saturday night had never included other people. This Saturday night, though—with her arms wrapped around Glinda’s waist and the blonde witch’s joyful shrieks being carried off by the wind, and with Fiyero clinging to Elphaba’s waist for dear life and stifling his own shouts in her back—Elphaba would have gladly seen repeats of similar nights in the future.

That morning, the plan had been for her to help Glinda practice her broom-handling techniques—Elphaba normally wasn’t so willing a tutor, but she was weak to Glinda’s batting eyelashes and puffed out lower lip. Elphaba had fallen equally weak to Fiyero knocking on the girls’ dorm door that afternoon, adorably shy as he asked if they’d want to see a show together later that night. Glinda had agreed right away, all but bouncing in excitement, and had hooked her chin over Elphaba’s shoulder and nuzzled her cheek until she accepted the invitation, with the stipulation that they would fly to the show so Glinda could get her practice in by keeping the broom in the air through the whole production. Elphaba was weak to the girl she adored, but she was also strict in wanting to help her girl do well, especially when she asked for help. Glinda hadn’t mentioned until they were nearly on the edge of the Shiz Academy grounds that her broom had been hexed by a third-year during her last class, leaving the three only Elphaba’s broom to travel with. Glinda had assuredly declared that one broom could fit all three of them and that she’d certainly learn to fly better if her tutor was close enough to give advice. It hadn’t just been advice Elphaba had been whispering in Glinda’s ear on the flight, but it was still certainly encouraging. And, Elphaba admitted, Glinda was right; the broom fit all of them snugly, especially after they’d teased Fiyero that, unless they sat close as sardines in a can, their mount would capsize. He held on nice and tight after that.

Eventually, they’d arrived at the theatre, its drive-in lot full of buggies and carriages and the skies above littered with young witches hovering on brooms, the crowd eager for the show to begin. Glinda pulled their broom to a stop in the back section, a polite distance away from any other fly-ins but reasonably close enough to hear the music from the projector screen. She turned to Elphaba, seamlessly crossing her legs into sitting side-saddle and beaming up at her girlfriend. “Perfect landing, right?”

Fiyero shifted like stored luggage when their journey came to a stop, groaning and nodding gratefully when Elphaba turned and helped him to face the screen and sit more steadily as well. “Yeah, hon, you did great,” he said, trying to smile convincingly, despite the diamond markings on his neck having shifted from deep azure to a more queasy green. “Could fly circles around me.”

“Anyone could fly circles around you,” Elphaba told him fondly, and he chuckled. As she lay a hand on his back and whispered a spell to ease his stomach churning, Glinda reached across her lap to squeeze his knee.

“I’ll take it slower on the way back, promise. You gonna be okay—?” Her heart was in the right place, but her shift in focus made the broom dip sharply. Glinda sat upright with a squeak, and Fiyero’s hands twitched between holding his abdomen and white-knuckling the broomstick.

When their perch evened out, Elphaba turned to lay her other hand on Glinda’s cheek, flushed from embarrassment and the almost-fall. “It’s okay,” she said, giving one blonde curl a fond tug. “This is supposed to be practice. It’s okay if you make mistakes.”

“Even if they make me drop you and Fiyero thirty feet to the ground?” Glinda huffed, though she did lean into the comforting touch.

“It’s not preferred,” Fiyero said with a chuckle, reaching over to squeeze Glinda’s knee in return for her having missed his, “but, Elphaba’s right, it’s okay.”

Elphaba nodded, pressing a kiss to Glinda’s forehead. “Practice for you to be steadier on a broom.” She turned to kiss Fiyero’s temple as well. “Practice for you to get less sky-sick on a broom.”

The show music began to play before them. As it began and went on, the trio found that their broom could be snug in the best of ways when it only had to hover in place. Fiyero grew not to gasp and grip Elphaba’s wrist every time the broom swayed with the wind, though, she imagined rightly, her wrapping an arm around his back and gently scratching the back of his neck may have had something to do with that. When she looped her arm around Glinda’s waist to hold her close as well, she noticed the stiffness in her posture, the determined crease in her brow.

“Hey,” Elphaba said, leaning in close enough to whisper into her girlfriend’s ear without disturbing others watching the movie.

Glinda jumped, smiling bashfully and tucking a tress of perfect hair behind her ear. “Hi,” she whispered back. Though her expression was its usual beaming and coy brand, a flick of Elphaba’s eyes was all she needed to see the way Glinda gripped the broom almost as tightly as Fiyero had been.

The green witch rubbed Glinda’s lower back and smiled back. It wasn’t a smile as charming or big as Glinda’s, but it was sincere and understanding. “It’s okay.”

“I—” She wilted a little, leaning into Elphaba’s touch. “I know. I just.” In the puffy folds of her pink skirt, Glinda balled her fists resolutely. “I can do this.”

“You can,” Elphaba agreed. “You will.” She ran her hand up and down Glinda’s back and gently nuzzled her ear. “But you can’t fly stiff like this, love.”

She shifted away from the touch on her ear with a quiet giggle. “It keeps me focused. I don’t want to bounce you guys off.”

Elphaba, stubborn, rubbed soothing circles beneath Glinda’s shoulder blades. “You won’t,” she insisted, gentle but stern. “And, even if you did, I’d grab the broom and catch us, but, Glinda, you won’t.” She tipped her head, trying to catch Glinda’s gaze and smiling when she caught her trying not to relax into the mini-massage. “Loosen your grip. Relax. You’ve got this. This is supposed to be a date as well as a lesson.”

Glinda bit her lip on a smile, eyelids fluttering peacefully until she sighed. “I— I just—” she began to reply. Only to be cut off by her own surprised gasp as Elphaba lifted her by the waist—Glinda definitely didn’t go rosy at just the show of magic strength—and onto her lap, then scooting over until there was enough room to set Glinda in the middle of the broom bench.

“Fiyero,” Elphaba resting her arm on Glinda’s shoulders so as to reach over and squeeze their boyfriend’s arm and get his attention—like he hadn’t been listening to the familiar hush of their voices for the past few minutes. “Poor Glinda needs our help to be distracted enough to relax.”

Fiyero’s face broke out into a bright grin, and he slid an arm around Glinda’s waist. “Oh?”

“Elphie—” Glinda squeaked as the two of them pressed closer, holding her in place between them with one arm each and leaving two whole other arms ready for mischief.

“Careful,” Elphaba teased lowly, her lips brushing Glinda’s ear, “other audience members might not appreciate you being loud enough to interrupt the show.”

Though it was her first Saturday night out in this exact configuration, the night’s current activities weren’t new to Elphaba. Before attending Shiz, they’d been new, as she’d never had any significant others, let alone ones she was comfortable enough to be silly around. In fact, when it had been new, the first time Glinda had been so stubborn about keeping herself up binge-studying for a class she would certainly pass with flying colors, Elphaba had given Fiyero the reins, figuring he’d have more experience being diplomatic and persuasive. As it had turned out, what they’d needed wasn’t diplomacy but to get Glinda laughing until she couldn’t remember what she’d been so stubborn about in the first place. She’d even told them so during the trio’s cuddle that night, that them finding out she was ticklish might very well be the best thing for her stress levels, since nothing made her happier than being close and affectionate with her two loves.

And so Fiyero and Elphaba dove in with practiced, fondly devious intent. Elphaba’s slender fingers wiggled beneath Glinda’s arms, and Fiyero directed his attention to squeezing Glinda’s sides and hips. There were a number of factors that led to Glinda’s laugh being the most adorable thing in all of Oz. When she laughed, she kicked, fluttering kicks of, today, her high-heeled boots—the ones that made her a perfect height to reach her lovers’ cheeks to kiss—and striped black socks. Her shoulders scrunched up, and her hands clasped over her chest until she couldn’t help but flap them uselessly. Her nose wrinkled, and her cheeks went an adorable shade of pink, and her head rocked between leaning back against Elphaba’s arm and being buried in Fiyero’s neck. Glinda’s actual laugh, when you finished swooning over all the physical tics that went with it, was an absolute pleasure to hear and even more so to earn, a squealing and snorting song of cackles that Glinda instinctively tried to cover with her hand out in public because it didn’t exactly fit the image of the popular, girly, worldly witch. But, Elphaba and Fiyero consistently argued, it fit Glinda.

Even as Glinda wriggled and bit her lip through giggles, the broom held fairly steady, the witch having been serious about being able to focus enough to do so. Elphaba, who was keeping her peripheral attention to keeping them from falling out of the air, had been right. Glinda had been working up a headache trying so hard to control the broom; letting go a little to laugh in the safe arms of her two favorite people eased the tension in her head and made it all a little easier. Elphaba had to smile. Of course, she was right. Glinda was having fun and getting good practice in, and it seems even Fiyero had forgotten about the height and had relaxed a little, too.

Fiyero leaned in to kiss Glinda’s neck and sing softly in her ear, laughing quietly himself as Glinda hid her squeals in Elphaba’s dark blouse. Elphaba could see the gleam of betrayal in Glinda’s eyes when the taller witch’s hands slipped under the hem of her shirt to gently scribble her fingers along her belly. Up until then, they’d been playing nice, teasing and tickling lightly enough that Glinda had some chance of holding back her laughter. But the shift in Elphaba’s hands made Glinda yelp loud enough for nearby audience members to glance their way, not that the trio’s smiles could be seen in the evening dark. Both Glinda and Fiyero had their hands over their mouths, him smothering a laugh at the sound Glinda had let out and Glinda to cover her flushed cheeks and prevent any similar sounds from escaping though the hands and lips had retreated and arms had gone back to being benevolent. Elphaba pressed her lips together but couldn’t suppress a smile either.

“I’ll get you,” Glinda whispered, still wearing a grin and with eyes bright. She pointed a finger at one SO and then the other, using the same finger to give each of them a warning poke to the ribs. “I’ll get both of you back.”

Neither had any doubt about that. Fiyero’s diamond markings visibly went pink at the mere thought of Glinda’s retaliation, from experience sure to be evil and thorough and wonderful. Glinda huffed happily at the sight of the flustered boy.

“Of course, you will,” Elphaba said, not so quick to blush but feeling her heart patter excitedly at the thought as well. She wondered if Glinda would make revenge a game like last time, using spells and relentlessly teasing her significant others to see who would crack first. Elphaba did almost feel heat in her cheeks; since Fiyero consistently broke first, Glinda had started giving her girlfriend more attention off the bat, whatever methods necessary to get her to laugh or fold first. “But not here,” Elphaba added, reigning in her already wandering train of thought.

Glinda pouted, tipping her head to one side in a clear question.

“Because neither of us are as practiced at getting tickled as you,” Elphaba explained. “We’d surely be kicked out for being too noisy.”

“As soon as we get back then,” Glinda decided with a sigh. She barely had to look at Fiyero to make him squirm, and she looked to Elphaba with a smile. “But, Elphie, look how cute Fiyero is. We can’t get him now?” Even the hand she rested on the back of his neck and used to scratch lightly at his scalp made Fiyero’s face scrunch up with a quiet giggle.

“First thing when we get back,” Elphaba said. “He’ll be flustered thinking about it until then.”

Fiyero scoffed, crossing his arms and grumbling under his breath, sounding suspiciously like he’d repeated Elphaba’s words in a mocking tone.

“What was that, darling?” Elphaba said, tilting her head to look at him with a smirk and a wiggle of her fingers that made literal little sparks. Glinda may have been the one to play games with them, but Elphaba was far more adept with spells, including tickly ones. At the familiar show of magic, Fiyero’s ears went hot, and he shook his head, hiding a smile as he ducked his head. Elphaba blew him a kiss at that, and Glinda leaned over to plant a kiss on his cheek before turning to her girlfriend with a radiant grin.

“And then you’ll have a turn, Elphie!” she said, delighting in how she could feel the warmth from Elphaba’s face just by snuggling up to her side. “You deserve it, especially after being such a good teacher.”

What little confidence Elphaba had been able to exude while she and Fiyero had teamed up had been exterminated. She shouldn’t have expected otherwise; Glinda was good at making her melt. “Okay,” was all she could reply.

With a giggle, Glinda slipped her arms around their waists, pulling them closer and giving them each a kiss. On their little broom, they could even cuddle quite well, Glinda leaning into Elphaba’s chest and Fiyero resting his head in Glinda’s lap, happily getting his haired played with by one of each of the girls’ hands. When they returned to their dorms, they could cuddle more properly tangled up, but, for now, they were merry and together, and there was no way they’d rather spend a night.

[groovegalaxxxy5]

The Art School AU nobody asked for

I’ve had this idea for an emercury AU fic kicking around in my head for a while now, but I have so many other projects on my plate rn and nowhere near enough time or energy to write it. So instead I’m just gonna post all the deets in the hopes that one day I’ll be able to come back and actually do something with it.

Emercury Art School AU Summary:

“Emerald Sustrai may have managed to get into the dance program at one of the most prestigious art schools on Remnant, but she has one big issue – after just one year of study, she’s barely managing to stay afloat even with two part-time jobs and her grades have been suffering for it. Fortunately for her, her school offers extra credit to any students who are cast in the school’s yearly exhibition performance.  Unfortunately, this year’s production’s theme is “passion” and the only spot up for audition for sophomores in the dance program is for a couples’ dance performance based on said theme.   

Enter one Mercury Black—a fellow dance student with a reputation unsavory enough to overshadow his considerable talent, and quite possibly the last person on Remnant Emerald would ever want to work with…He also happens to literally be the only other person she can find to pair up with her for the show.  Somehow, improbably, the unlikely duo actually make a pretty good team once they finally start to work out their differences, but as they perfect their routine for the big audition, Emerald finds herself in a whole new predicament: She may have set out to steal the show, but if she’s not careful she might just end up getting her heart stolen in the process...”

So yeah…as you can see, the basic premise is that Em and Merc are classmates at this school for the arts, but both of them are having trouble earning passing marks in this one foundation course they both need to graduate—Emerald because she is completely on her own and has to work a lot to pay for her living expenses and studio fees and stuff even though she has a pretty decent scholarship, and Mercury because he keeps really odd hours and misses class quite a bit for unexplained reasons.  Noticing that she’s struggling even though she is a gifted dancer, one of Emerald’s teachers suggests that she try out for the big show that their school puts on every school year, since anyone who makes the cut receives a bunch of extra credit and each faculty also gives a grant to the students who they judge to have put on one of the top three best performances.  The problem is, there are only a limited number of spots up for audition for each graduating year of each concentration course due to time and resource restraints, and this year’s 2nd year dance spot happens to be billed as a couples’ performance.

Emerald hits up everybody she can think of, but they're all too busy or can't commit to the project for other reasons. Pretty much out of options at that point, she’s just about ready to give up when she has a chance encounter with a classmate, one Mercury Black, after school.  Through some sort of clerical error they managed to book the exact same practice studio for exactly the same time, and since they both really need the extra practice time and neither one is willing to back down, they end up sharing the room for a few hours.  When they do, Emerald is really surprised to find out that Mercury is actually a really talented dancer, she just never noticed before because even though they have some classes together he comes in very irregularly.  After a long, sleepless night contemplating doing something really, really ill-advised, she ends up approaching him at school the next day to propose that they team up and audition for the big show together since they appear to both be failing the same class and need the credit really bad, and to her surprise he agrees rather easily.

Thus, the two of them become reluctant accomplices. However, once they start working out the choreography together, they just can’t seem to see eye-to-eye on anything, which doesn’t bode very well for their performance considering that it’s supposed to embody the show’s theme. Emerald is more of a ballet dancer, while Mercury is more of a street dancer, having started out with breaking and had almost zero classical training before starting school.  After a while (with a lot of practice and a LOT of unsolicited intervention from their nosy friends) our two favorite mayhem children finally start to bond and find some common ground, and naturally, lighthearted romantic hijinks ensue and sparks fly between the unlikely duo as they struggle to cooperate and put together a passionate couples’ dance good enough to get into the final production.

The Supporting Cast:

Em’s peeps -- Cinder (in the class above, sort of her mentor and was the one who encouraged her to apply to school in the first place), Weiss (met in freshman year, in the same ballet, jazz and contemporary classes this year, snarking buddies), Blake (ended up in most of the same classes together this year), Coco (upperclassman in the design course, loves dressing Em in different outfits and often forces her to stand in as a house model for her when she needs to work late into the night to meet a deadline)

Merc’s peeps -- Sun (met in class in freshman year, breaking and sparring buddies), Neptune (met thru Sun, in pop class together this year), Scarlet (ditto), Blake (in a few classes together, waits tables at the same diner where he works), Yang (met at a stunt training camp the Summer of freshmen year, waits tables at the same restaurant, fellow gym rat and occasional sparring partner)

Salem -- Headmistress of the most prestigious arts school on Remnant; has a bitter love-hate (mostly hate) relationship with her ex

Oz -- The headmistress’ ex-husband who runs a very successful Circe du Soleil type show and recruits a lot of his performers from her graduating classes

Glinda -- Chair of the dance department; Contemporary and ballroom dance instructor; is so so weary of her faculty’s incessant bickering

Winter -- Ballet instructor; came up in a rigid traditional Atlesian ballet school and generally looks down on all the other dancing disciplines and their instructors (”What they do can BARELY be described as dancing”); wishes the dance department were as disciplined as the music department

Qrow -- Jazz and tap dance instructor; doesn’t think that what his sister does really counts as actual dancing; jazz hands, rain hands and double dream hands and he’s dead serious about em

Raven -- Acrobatic and contortion instructor; thinks jazz hands look really stupid, just like Qrow and his corny, goofy ass dancing; was actually trained extensively in traditional Mistralian Highlands step dancing from childhood alongside her brother and used to perform internationally before switching disciplines

Tai Yang -- Hip-hop and pop dance instructor; specializes in pop and lock; Raven's ex; constantly catching strays from Qrow and Raven’s feud; just happy to still have a job tbh

Arthur & Tyrian -- Co-chairs of the theater department; Arthur teaches classical acting and Tyrian teaches method acting and they both think the other doesn’t teach “real acting”; somehow their department is actually really popular and all the students love the yearly musical theater production, which is the only time they ever seem to agree on anything

Hazel -- Long-suffering theater production instructor; works really hard to keep things running smoothly in the background despite the department heads' antics; hates the headmistress’s ex with a burning passion

Ironwood -- Chair of the music department; runs his department like a well-oiled machine and has put the fear of god into all his students; has won the national marching band championships seven years running

All the other students are in various departments at their school—e.g. Ruby plays the sax, Yang and Jaune are both acting majors, Oscar plays the cello, Nora and Ren play the tuba and the erhu respectively, Pyrrha is a triple threat etc.

A bunch of random plot points:

-Merc, Em and their friends are all in the same foundation classes together and the two of them start off vaguely aware of one another mostly owing to the fact that all their friends are friends, but they don’t really know each other (…or DO they??? *DUN DUNNN DUNNNNN*)

-Most of the faculty at their school can’t stand each other and the different departments have been engaged in bitter rivalries for years but somehow they all work really well together because at the end of the day they’re all professionals who are good at their jobs

-All of their friends are convinced that they’re secretly dating or hooking up at the very least, because they suddenly start hanging around each other a lot, holing up in the practice studio together until all hours of the night and showing up school at the same time the next morning and are constantly snipping at each other whenever they interact.  Merc’s squad is actually v supportive and (against his wishes) are doing their very best to try and help their boy lay down the mac (Sun: “Hey Merc! Thanks for letting me drive the convertible last weekend!😉👍”) , even though they all generally acknowledge that he’s way out of his league and is headed down the path to utter destruction. Meanwhile, Em’s friends are pretty appalled by her abysmally low standards (Weiss: “Emerald, you’re dating down....WAY down.🙁”) and think that shes going thru some kind of self-destructive phase or something.  They’re convinced she’s about to have her life absolutely ruined by that one smirky fuccboi type from their grade who has super sus habits and “reeks of criminality” (also Weiss).

-Almost everybody including most of his friends are convinced that Mercury is doing something really, really shady for cash on the low because he keeps super odd hours, misses class a lot and is always showing up with all these bizarre, unexplained injuries.  In reality, Em finds out that it’s all because he’s been training as a stunt-man outside of school and works a lot of weird hours at his part-time job so that he can pay off his prosthetics, finance his extra courses and pay for his own living expenses, etc. Although he actually was involved in some serious criminal activity in the past, he’s been trying his best to stay on the straight and narrow ever since he finally cut ties with his scumbag dad, and now just works a lot of nights and weekends as a short order cook at the local greasy spoon.

-Once Mercury realizes that Emerald is like...constantly on the brink of starvation because she’s a destitute vagabond baby but has too much pride to ask for help, he starts subtly bringing her leftovers from work, which she grudgingly accepts (because he owes her for putting him onto the whole extra credit thing, so it’s not really charity...definitely NOT because she is extremely susceptible to offerings of food and her partner also happens to be a surprisingly good cook).  

-Cinder is in the year above them and has known Emerald since they were in the foster system together as kids. She’s a prodigy at ballet and also a very accomplished acrobat and contortionist (as in, like, can easily shoot an arrow into a bullseye with just her feet while her legs are bent backwards all the way over the top of her head and stuff).  At some point she sits in on one of Em and Merc’s rehearsal sessions and ends up dragging the hell out of them both for being way too stiff and exhibiting almost zero chemistry despite the “obnoxiously obvious sexual tension” between them.  She basically ends up barking directions at them until they alter their choreo a bunch and finally start to look somewhat like an actual couple ("For fuck's sake... Lift her like she's the most precious thing you've ever laid eyes on and you're about to make sweet love to her, you idiot, not like she's a frigging sack of potatoes you're bringing home to peel!!!" "This man is supposed to be the moon to your stars...if you don't loosen up and melt into his arms like your soul is on fire, I will flip ALL this shit over and burn this wretched studio to the ground with both of you trapped inside!!!" ), after which things gradually start to get all awkward and messy between them because they start thinking about one another differently.  

-They get into a bunch of compromising situations by virtue of the fact theatre and dance people are just kinda naked  a lot and don’t care.  At various points in the story their friends will walk in on the two of them in some sort of really eyebrow raising situation, get the complete wrong idea  and run away, which in turn makes the two of them start to feel awkward as hell toward each other.

-Coco forces them to wear matching outfits that she made just for their performance.

-Their act ends up being this spicy contemporary couples’ dance that incorporates a lot of elements of acrobatic dance, breaking and ballet, essentially blending together both of their unique dance backgrounds.

 This story idea has absolutely nothing to do with canon and Remnant is a lot like modern-day Earth with some exceptions, so there are no semblances etc. There’s no antagonist; in fact everyone around them is generally supportive and wants them to succeed--the main conflict comes from Emerald and Mercury only having three brain cells between them and not being used to caring about someone else in a lovey-dovey sort of way. I got the idea when I was watching dance videos online and started remembering all those cheesy dance-themed teen movies from the 90’s and early 2000’s.  It’s pretty much just a wholesome little meet-cute/will-they-won’t-they type school romance in that same vein, where Em and Merc are forced to team up out of necessity, start to fall for each other and then have to deal with all the awkwardness that ensues...all with a bunch of help from their extremely eccentric, meddling-ass friends who are all convinced that the two of them are either already dating or about to be and are trying to keep them both from getting their hearts broken lol

 Whew! Guess that’s about it for now...I’d like to try and flesh this one out more and maybe even publish it as a legit fic one day, but first I’ve gotta get back to work on *signal lost*

[vindicatedvirgil]

only fools rush in / part eight: of flowers and freeing words

part one | part two | part three | part four | part five | part six | part seven

TW: sexual innuendo (thanks, Remus), mention of hospital visit, mentions of cancer/chronic illness, VERY vague mentions of domestic abuse, vague mentions of sex, cursing, anxiety attack

chapter summary: Patton reflects on his relationship with Remus, his friendship with Logan, and just... everything.

---

Like a river flows surely to the sea

Darling, so it goes

Some things are meant to be

-

Patton wasn’t sure if he believed in fate. Sure, his mom would read him fairytales as a kid and he hoped that someday, he would find where he was meant to be. But he had worked hard to get where he was, taking care of his mom when she got sick, helping to run the flower shop all throughout high school and helping when he could now that he was in college. Everyone he had dated in the past always felt… like a background character, or one of those characters in video games that you only really deal with for one quest and then you don’t see them ever again. A part of his journey, yes, but not someone to join him on the rest of his journey.

And then he met Remus. Remus, who was so unlike anyone he had ever dated, who looked at Patton like he held all of the stars in his hands, who held him so gently after their moments of intimacy that Patton almost felt like a porcelain doll, so fragile, so ready to break in the hands of the person who he loved so dearly, as long as Remus was happy.

It had all happened so quickly; from the moment they met, Patton was in it. Their first date was unlike any other he had ever had, because they both broke down their walls. And as they grew to know each other more, as they progressed physically and emotionally, Patton wanted more and more to believe that Remus was the one he was made for. That, perhaps, Patton Hart, in his mother’s womb all those years ago, was being crafted just so that he could be held tenderly by Remus Creative. 

He didn’t want to lose that. He couldn’t bear the thought of it falling apart; perhaps that was why he reacted so negatively to what Roman did during the power outage. For the first time in his life, Patton had something that he was terrified to lose other than his mother, Logan, and the flower shop. And even though Roman was one of his best friends, maybe especially so, he couldn’t bear the idea that the theater major would get in the way of what was, in Patton’s mind, meant to be.

It haunted his every thought, though. When he curled in Remus’ arms, the fresh afterglow settling above both of them, when he sat in his child development classes, when he cut the stems off of the flowers in the shop, it was all he could think of: Roman’s letter. And now he felt guilty for holding this grudge over him, but he didn’t know how to resolve things; until he realized that opening night of the musical was coming up.

-

“Hi, Mama,” Patton said, stepping into the flower shop, Remus in tow. “How are you today?” She swept him up into his arms, pressing kisses into his hair and on his cheeks.

“Much better now that you’re here, darling.” Her eyes fluttered over to Remus, who smiled, holding his hand out, but she pushed it aside and brought him into the hug as well. “Remus, you look very nice.” Remus glanced down at his outfit; he was wearing his dark green suit and had his hair brought back into a bun; it was the opening night of the play and they were making a quick stop before going to see it.

“Thank you, Ms. Hart.” He pressed a kiss to her cheek before stepping away to look at some roses, allowing time for Patton to explain what he needed.

“Yellow roses, Mama. For friendship,” he said thoughtfully, glancing at the vase he had dropped off with her the other day. “The usual fillers are good, though.” He fidgeted with the ends of his pink skirt a little bit. He had also dressed nicely; it was almost like he and Remus had decided to cosplay as Elphaba and Glinda. Patton wore white pumps, a white shirt with a sparkly bow tie was tucked into the skirt, and some sparkly tights. Remus had nearly dragged him into the bedroom when they met up at the apartment earlier. That would have to wait until later, though, because Patton didn’t want to miss a single moment of the musical. 

-

Patton cheered louder than anyone for Roman, even louder than Remus (which… seemed impossible, but he managed to do it). The only person who rivaled his deafening cries was Janus, who beamed with joy and proudness whenever Virgil was on stage. And even Logan had to brush a few tears from his eyes at the end of the musical, when the entire audience stood and cheered as soon as Roman stepped out into the curtain call.

After the curtain call ended, Janus, Logan, Remus, and Patton stood expectantly where they knew Virgil and Roman would be coming out. Janus held the bouquet for Virgil, and Patton had the one for Roman. They stood there for a while, watching as families and friends greeted the actors and then left, and soon it was quiet.

“Where are they?” Patton asked hesitantly, and he shared a worried look with Janus. “Do you think Virgil had another anxiety attack?”

“They’re probably just fucking,” Remus muttered, his hands snaking around Patton’s waist, leaning down to press his lips to his earlobe. “Exactly what I’ll be doing to you later tonight, little flower.”

“Re!” Patton flushed hard, batting away Remus with his free hand. Janus smirked, a low chuckle escaping as he watched the encounter with the two. “You keep making moves like that and you’ll get nothing but a door in your face tonight.” Patton was teasing, of course, but Remus stepped back, a hand clapping on Logan’s shoulder as the two discussed a project they had in a mutual class.

Finally, Roman and Virgil stepped out of the green room, their hands intertwined. They were both cleaned of their makeup and costumes, and it occurred to them all that since the two were dressed in intricate costumes and makeup for the tin man and the scarecrow that it would take them a little bit longer to finish cleaning up. Janus moved first, scooping Virgil into a big hug, murmuring how proud he was and complimenting his work. Patton stepped up to Roman hesitantly, holding out the bouquet of flowers.

“You did amazing, Ro,” he said quietly, smiling up at his friend, whose eyes brimmed with tears. Roman took the vase with flowers, then set them on an empty table before hugging Patton tightly, sobbing into the smaller man’s shoulder. “Hey, shh, it’s alright. We’re okay, Ro.” As the two hugged tightly, he felt a pat on his shoulder, and glanced to see Logan, smiling brightly, but shaking his head, as if to say ‘you idiots, I love you.’

“Get in here, nerd,” Roman muttered before pulling the smartest of the three into their hug. Patton didn’t know how long the three stood there for, but when they pulled away, Janus was still hugging Virgil tight. Remus gave Roman a brief hug.

“Proud of you, bro. Though I still say the medieval play in high school was your best,” the mustached twin said, and a look of realization crossed Roman’s features.

“You… saw that play?” he asked, and Remus nodded, confused. “Mom and Dad said you didn’t want to go.”

“I sat in the back corner, but I was so proud of you, Bro-man.” Remus smirked at the nickname he had used in the past for his brother, and Roman laughed, pulling his twin in for another hug. “You did awesome tonight.” Patton apparently had snapped a photo of the pair hugging with his polaroid camera, and thus entered the struggle over who would get to put it on the fridge.

Janus won that fight.

-

Patton sat alone at one of the tables in the schoolyard, his brown paper bag full of goodies that his mom made sure to include. It was scary, starting in a new school halfway through the year, and all of the other kids made fun of the flowers he brought in for his new teacher. Then they made fun of him for wearing a pink sweater, for his big round glasses, and for having long hair that his mom had put into a bun for him that morning before he got on the bus.

So, there he was, second grade, sitting all alone. He didn’t mind, because he knew that when he got home, he’d see his mom, and they’d be safe.

“What are you doing?” A voice said from beside him. He looked up to see a boy with square glasses, neatly combed hair, a polo shirt, and a tie. Patton remembered him as the boy who answered all of the questions during the science part of their class. “This is my table.”

“O-Oh… I’m sorry. I just… didn’t have anywhere else to sit.” Patton looked down, trying to hold in his tears. He didn’t want to be known as the kid who cried on his first day at the school, and his mom always knew when he’d been crying. “I’m s-so sorry…” The other boy sighed, sliding into the seat across from him and setting a book down.

“It’s fine, just stay quiet so I can read, okay Patton Hart?” he asked, and Patton looked up at him through teary eyes.

“Y-You know my name?” His voice was shaky, and he slid his glasses up to sit in his hair so he could wipe his tears with the sleeve of his sweater. The other boy nodded.

“You’re the new kid. You have a frog backpack and a notebook with a kitten on it,” the boy said matter-of-factly. “A little bit frivolous, but if it’s what you enjoy, then there is no harm there.”

“Fribolous?” Patton asked, giggling. “You use a lot of big words.” The other boy sighed again, adjusting his glasses.

“Yes. Frivolous. F-R-I-V-O-L-O-U-S. It’s something that does not have any serious purpose or value,” he explained, and Patton nodded, face deep in thought.

“You know that underwater sea animal, porpoise?”

“I am aware of them, yes. Why do you ask?” he asked, and Patton giggled, having thought of the perfect pun.

“So… if I put a porpoise with serious guy glasses and a tie on my notebook… would it stop being fribolous?” He giggled all the way through his joke, and the other boy groaned.

“That was… awful. Why did you do that?”

“I thought it would be funny,” Patton said, sinking down a little. “D-Do you not like jokes?” He thought about his father, who never made any jokes around him. Who glared at Patton whenever the jokes came out of the small boy.

“I do not think that they lead to important discussions, is all,” he explained, and Patton nodded, taking a bite of his sandwich. Then realization struck.

“What’s your name?”

“Oh. I’m Logan Crofters.”

-

As the weeks passed, Patton stayed sitting at Logan’s table, dishing out puns whenever necessary but mostly asking Logan about different kinds of science-related things. He liked the way that Logan explained things; he made a lot more sense than their teacher, sometimes.

“Am I bothering you?” Patton asked one day. He had slid over his grapes to Logan, who was munching on them between reading paragraphs from a book about frogs. 

“What?”

“Am I annoying?”

“No, Patton. you’re not annoying.” Logan seemed a bit exasperated with the question, but he answered it anyway.

“Are we friends?” Patton’s eyes were focused on Logan, it had been so long since he had a friend that wasn’t his mom or one of his many stuffed animals.

“Oh. Um… I don’t know. I’ve never had a friend before.” Logan’s response was curt, and Patton’s jaw dropped.

“What!?” He jumped up from where he was sitting, then ran over to sit next to Logan. “Can I be your best friend, then??”

“Um. Sure?”

“Yay!” He wrapped his arms around Logan tightly.

-

Logan ran into the waiting room of the hospital, finding Patton sitting on a chair, his head in his hands. He approached him quickly, a hand instinctively going to his best friend’s back. “I got here as soon as I could, is she okay?”

“She collapsed, Lo. I just… She went into the back to rinse off the new roses, and when I went to check on her… she was on the ground.” Patton leaned into Logan’s shoulder, tears staining the polo shirt he was wearing. “The doctors say... it might have come back, but they’re running tests.”

“She’s in good hands, Pat. I’m going to text my parents and let them know that I’ll be here with you until she goes home, okay? And then I can be there for you.” Logan’s phone was in his hand, and he sent a quick text.

“Tell me something logical, please,” Patton whispered once the two were seated together, hands twisted together, Patton’s head on Logan’s shoulder.

“Are you sure?” he asked, and just got a nod in return. “Well… logically speaking, a bee should not be physically able to fly–”

“Lo!” Patton was giggling, his grip tightening on Logan’s hand. “You know me so well. Thank you.”

-

The morning after opening night of the musical, Patton entered the apartment, yawning. He didn’t get much sleep thanks to Remus, and he was hoping to take a nap before delving into studying for his final exams. When he entered the apartment, he found Logan sitting at the kitchen table, papers spread out in front of him.

“Hey, Lo. No Janus?” he asked, glancing around. Logan shook his head.

“He went home a while ago. Roman and Virgil are still in bed, though,” he explained, stretching his arms up. “Did you have a good time with Remus last night?” Patton’s face reddened at the question, and he nodded. “Does Hannah like him?”

It still caught Patton off guard whenever Logan referred to his mom by her first name, but they had been friends for almost fifteen years, so of course it made sense. Logan could call her mom, too, if he wanted to. He was there whenever Patton needed him, whenever she had a doctor’s appointment that Patton couldn’t drive her to because someone needed to look after the store.

Patton wondered why Logan did all of this. Sometimes he thought back to that time when he asked him if they were friends, all the way back when they were first getting to know each other. And Patton, little Patton, just… proclaimed them as best friends. Did he shoehorn Logan into their friendship so that he could never branch out?

No, that couldn’t be true, because Logan joined debate and chess and academic decathlon in high school, but still spent all of his free time with Patton. And even once Roman and Janus and now Virgil and Remus entered their lives, he still regarded Patton as one of his best friends.

“Hey, you look like you’re having some troubling thoughts, Patton. Want to talk about them?” Logan’s voice was pulling him back into the present, and he nodded, sitting on one of the stools. He was quiet for a bit, though, and Logan kept writing some notes down until Patton finally started talking again.

“Are you just my best friend out of convenience? Because I claimed you so early on and never really had any other friends? Do you just… stay my friend out of pity?” Patton was looking down until he felt Logan’s hand on his back, and then a laugh came from the usually stoic man.

“Patton, you’re my best friend because everyone else is annoying. If I didn’t want to be your friend I wouldn’t be, you’re a lot to deal with but I’ve been dealing with you for fifteen years and I plan on dealing with you for many more.” Logan’s voice was serious, and Patton could tell that he meant what he was saying. He leaned into Logan, wrapping his arms around his best friend.

“Thanks, Lo. Love ya.”

“Love you too, Pat.”

-

Patton’s arm burned, but in a good way. Underneath the plastic he could see the vibrant colors of his very first tattoo, his mother’s favorite flower and a bee sitting on its petals, to remind him of Logan. He didn’t tell anyone that he was getting it, not even Logan, so when he got home to find Logan sitting at the kitchen table doing homework while talking to his mom, he was surprised.

“Lo? What are you doing here?” he asked, putting his arm behind his back so neither of them could see. He kissed his mother on the cheek before sitting on one of the chairs beside them.

“I came by to study but Hannah said that you went out for something,” Logan explained, pushing his glasses up further on his nose.

“What did you do, baby?” his mother asked, glancing at him carefully. He was still hiding his arm, but he smiled and brought it out, settling it on the table.

“I uh, I got a tattoo, Mama,” Patton said hesitantly. She looked at it carefully, smiling a little bit. “A sunflower. Your favorite.” Logan eyed the tattoo as well, nodding in understanding. “To celebrate you beating the cancer again.”

“Patton, will you take me to get a tattoo?” Logan’s voice was there suddenly, and the two Harts looked at him with surprised expressions.

“Lo, you… want a tattoo?”

“I want to get a constellation tattooed on my shoulder. The one that was in the sky on the day we became best friends.”

-

Patton leaned into Remus’ side, the taller man’s arm wrapped around his shoulders. They were at the cafe, the others having gone home long ago to study or sleep, but the couple stayed long after, chatting with Remy whenever he brought them over refills on their drinks or small pastries. Remus’ grip got a little tighter around Patton each time he shone his signature bright smile at the barista, earning a soft thigh squeeze from the smaller man and a kiss on the cheek. Maybe that was why he did it; not because he was worried about Patton flirting, but because his boyfriend always comforted him with those delicate touches and sweet kisses. 

The bell above the door to the cafe rang gently as a few men stepped in. Remus glanced out of the corner of his eye at them, and he thought his heart would stop. “Shit,” he muttered, looking down, earning a confused squeak from Patton. “Shit, we need to go. Right now.” Patton glanced over at the group of men, all dressed in leather, covered in tattoos and piercings, evil smirks on their faces as they noticed Remus.

“Do you know them?” Patton asked softly, and Remus buried his face into the other’s shoulder, a small note of truth escaping his mouth. “Are they…?” He didn’t need to finish the sentence. Patton wasn’t a fool; he could tell by Remus’ body language and the way he tensed up that this was the group of boys he had spent time with in high school. “I’ll go pay our tab, will you be okay?” Remus said nothing but gripped onto Patton tighter, shaking his head.

“Remus Creative,” one of the voices said, dark and gritty, and Remus cringed, looking up at him. Him. “Looks like you found yourself a precious pansy, hm?”

“Fuck off,” his voice was weak, trembling, and the memories of those eyes tore through him. 

“Aw, don’t worry, kitten, he’ll tire of you soon enough and you won’t have to deal with his voices and crude comments,” another one said, and Patton considered lunging at him, but held back, because Remus was trembling beside him. 

“Everything alright, babes?” Remy was there, thank god, and Patton smiled sweetly at him, taking his debit card out of his pocket.

“Can we pay off our tab, please, Remy? We have to get going,” Patton said, his eyes flickering from the barista to the men, and a wave of understanding seemed to cross Remy’s face, who nodded and took the card, going back to the counter speedily.

“Running away again, Remus?” That voice asked again, and the mustached man shuddered, unable to look away from the grimace on his face. “You were always so good at that.” Patton’s frown deepened, and he glared at the man. “Aw, are you going to try to defend him, little kitten? Trying to be so cool with those floral tattoos–”

“I TOLD YOU TO FUCK OFF!” Remus was standing, his fists clenched, glaring at the men. Patton scrambled to his feet, a hand gripping the back of Remus’ jacket. Remy reappeared, handing the debit card to Patton, placing himself between Remus and the group of men.

“Alright, boys. Get out. You’re not welcome here if you’re going to torment some of my best customers.” His voice was firm, and they all glanced at the ‘Manager’ title on his name tag. “I don’t want to have to call the authorities. Get. Out.” The group scrambled out the door, the bell clanging almost annoying to the three, and Patton’s arms were around Remus.

“Hey, you okay, babe?” he asked, feeling his taller boyfriend shaking, his head low. “Shh, it’s okay, everything is okay, we’re okay.”

“Are you babes gonna be okay?” Remy asked, still standing there, arms crossed as he watched the group of men outside in deep discussion. 

“Thank you, Remy,” Remus finally spoke, his voice still low. “If you hadn’t stepped in… I might have done something I’d regret.” Remy smiled, setting a hand on his shoulder.

“Hey, no one messes with my babes like that,” he said before going back to behind the counter. Patton’s lips were against Remus’ cheek, grounding him.

“Let’s go, Re.”

-

Remus woke up, feeling Patton’s arms around him loosely. The smaller man was snoring softly, and Remus smiled, carding his fingers through the fading pink hair. When they got back to his bedroom last night, he needed to be grounded, and Patton was there, being gentle and soft, his hands and lips all over his body until Remus felt relaxed enough to fall asleep. 

Patton groaned a bit in his sleep, stretching his arms and legs, his eyes fluttering open to meet Remus’. “Hi,” he said softly, his voice heavy with sleepiness. “Morning, little flower,” Remus said, leaning down to press a stinky-mouthed kiss to his boyfriend’s lips. “Thank you for last night.”

“Oh. Of course, honey. Anything for you,” he said quietly, but Remus could tell something was on his mind. “What did they mean by… you tiring of me, or running away?”

“Before you… I never really had a… committed partner. I’d run at the first hint that things were getting serious, when they said those words, I ran,” Remus explained, looking down. “But… that’s not going to happen with you, Patton. You mean so much to me, you’re… everything to me.”

“Everything?” Patton asked, a smile appearing on his face, his lips pressing to Remus’ cheek and then his neck.

“Patton,” he started, his heartbeat speeding up, and he wondered if the other could hear it because soft blue eyes met his green ones. “I love you.” Patton blinked, absorbing the knowledge, and then his arms were around Remus’ neck, their lips pressing together joyously. 

“I love you too, Remus.”

Remus smiled into the kiss. He wasn’t afraid anymore. Patton was there, he was with him, and everything was good. And if things came up, they’d work through them together. They were a team, and they always would be. He kept repeating those words between kisses, the weight from his mouth lifted, and he wished he could have said those words to Patton weeks ago, because it felt so right to say them.

---

teaser for part nine: and the dark one is soft for the sunshine one

Roman wanted to object, but he knew that Virgil would just remind him of their nights practicing for the auditions, their super early mornings running lines, the way Roman was always there to watch Virgil’s scenes. Virgil was there too, always supporting, always smiling, even when his anxiety got the best of him, even when it was hard to focus.

part nine will be (hopefully) posted on Sunday, September 6 at 12PM PDT

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part nine | part ten

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taglist

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[avinkusprince]

@the-young-rosebud replied to your post “a year ago my third eye was forcibly opened and i was taken by an...”

YES PLEASE

thank u for opening the flood gates

ok so the ship is elphaba/glinda/fiyero/sarima and it’s a soulmate tattoo idea. it starts off at shiz with elphie and glinda realizing they’re soulmates with matching blue diamond cluster tattoos and after some growing pains (and grappling with the fact that elphie only maybe believes in her own soul to begin with) they’re embracing it and happy and “ok so we’re lesbians and that’s that” ... enter fiyero getting attacked by antlers in class and elphie sees Those Tattoos and she’s like “oh shit.” she tries to tell glinda but glinda absolutely doesn’t believe it’s possible until crope introduces fiyero to the charmed circle and glinda’s WHITE KNUCKLING elphaba’s hand like “WE GOTTA TALK” while folks remark on how neat and uhhh Big fiyero’s soulmate tattoo is and he’s like “oh no this isn’t my soulmate tattoo these are decorative” (and glinda exhales.) “but they are the same pattern as my soulmate tattoo which is here” (glinda returns to panic mode)

so there’s like a whole chapter of elphaba and glinda having to talk through their feelings and options and whether they want this and they’re both afraid to say they could be interested, lest it come across as “you aren’t enough for me” so elphaba’s being super standoffish like “honestly he could die and i wouldn’t stop him it would make our lives easier” and glinda’s like “WHAT?? ELPHIE” and it all comes out and they agree to try to at least get to know him and maybe reveal their tattoos to him after careful thought and planning which is all thrown out the window when elphaba just deadpans him in the middle of their first alone conversation like “the 3 of us? we’re soulmates” and fiyero’s SHOOK and he’s like “i can’t believe... the 3 of you...” and elphie and glinda are like “he means the 2 of us... or 3 including him, like ozian’s his second language he just misspoke” and they’re about to Discuss but then the whole squad rolls in and their conversation gets stopped and of COURSE as fate would have it, someone mentions relationships and marriage and fiyero is asked and he says “yeah i’m married.”

OH?? already married??? yeah the reason they marry so young in the vinkus is that they can identify soulmate tattoos in childhood and just preemptively arrange marriage. (listen the au FITS okay??)

so sarima has fiyero’s soulmate tattoo.... but so do glinda and elphaba.... 

and the wild ride ensues from there.

[agrcengrass]

NATALIA DYER? No, that’s actually ASTORIA GREENGRASS from the GOLDEN TRIO ERA. You know, the child of ELIJAH GREENGRASS and ELIZABETH GREENGRASS (NÉE ROWLE)? Only 20 years old, this SLYTHERIN alumni works as a WIZARDING NANNY and is sided with THE NEUTRALS. SHE identifies as a CIS WOMAN and is a PUREBLOOD who is known to be JEALOUS, FRIVOLOUS, and MATERIALISTIC  but also DIPLOMATIC, CHARMING, and NURTURING. 

Warnings: PTSD, slight alcohol abuse, depression

HEADCANONS

01. Her parents raised her and her sister with blood purity in mind. That she was to marry a pureblood man and have pureblood children. At first, Astoria was more than okay with that. Was happy to play the part of a simple pureblooded girl. However, after the war and seeing classmates die and families ripped apart all because...of blood? She didn’t want to be part of that world anymore. She’d rather teach kindness and acceptance than spilling blood over ancestry. Her parents, however, do not understand why Astoria can’t be like other pureblood women like Narcissa and Bellatrix. But Astoria has tuned them out, whenever she sees them she tries not to talk about any of her relationships. She doesn’t need them meddling into her life. Astoria, while not completely confident in this, knows she can live her life outside of what her parents think. She’d be lying, however, if she said it didn’t hurt her when they compared her to the other girls or try to steer her back in the Death Eater path.

02. At Hogwarts, she was very ambitious and always tried to rise to the top. Not because she liked her classes or was particularly clever, but because she wanted to be on t o p. She would study relentlessly and stay up making sure her homework was just perfect. She was planning on NEWTS and planning out possible jobs (she wanted to be a curse-breaker). Was focused on carving out her own achievements that did not include blood purity. But then came the war and everything she had been building came crumbling down. Now, her ambitious streak has dried up and she’s lost at what to do. Astoria never returned her 7th year to take her NEWTS and is unsure if she should even try now. Currently, she’s a nanny and l o v e s it and the children. Loves taking care of them and playing with them. For the first time, it feels like she’s actually good at something and she doesn’t have to try so hard. Caring for these children just comes...naturally. 

03. Astoria is used to being doted on, whether by her family or friends or whoever she was seeing. But the minute whoever she was seeing at the time gives attention to anyone (but especially another woman) she might as well actually turn green. She’ll force herself by his side and smile all polite, then will talk about how she is his date and ‘who are you again?’. She’s not asking to be the center of attention, but she’d like it if her date didn’t get too close to other women and smile when they got all touchy-feely. Even with just her regular friends, she’ll feel it b u b b l i n g up inside her when they ignore her to talk to other people. Unfortunately, this also means that Astoria believes in the “two can play at that game” mentality at times. 

Short Bio

The second-born daughter of Elijah and Elizabeth Greengrass. Her parents had been hoping for a boy, especially after Daphne, but instead Astoria came into the world very early that October morning.

Her mother especially doted on her and was more than happy to give their youngest daughter whatever she wanted. Her father, while he was able to hide it, was still trying to get over the fact that he had no sons to pass on the Greengrass name. 

The doting became problematic when it was time for Astoria to head to Hogwarts, she didn’t want to leave her mother who gave her whatever she wanted. Suddenly, being thrown into a whole different world where she had to look out for herself. (The doting still is problematic. Her parents sending her money and gifts that Astoria doesn’t realize is them trying to bribe her back to the path of blood purity.)

Growing up, Astoria looked up to Daphne and looked to them for guidance while at Hogwarts. She was a bit attached to her sibling up until fourth year when she started coming into her own.

And come into her own she did. She flirted with whoever she pleased. Became friends with whoever sat next to her in classes, regardless of house and only had slight reservations about blood purity. She enjoyed the social side of Hogwarts, making connections and friendships and things more than friends. Although watching her friends and boyfriends or girlfriends talk to other people, become close to other people, made her stomach turn. It made her feel as if she was being left behind as if she was as unwanted as last year's dress robes. 

School did not come naturally for her, but she worked her ass off to get good grades on her OWLS and to qualify for NEWTS. However, she was doing all of this for the wrong reasons. She did not want to disappoint her parents, who always believed in their children being well-rounded with school, activities and well...finding a pureblood husband. A respectable pureblood husband at that. 

After her OWLS came back and she only qualified for two NEWT classes, she really stopped caring about school. She’d skip frequently and hang out with her friends or hook-up with whoever she was seeing. 

The war changed everything. Blood purity seemed pointless. School was even more pointless. She tried her best to help students around Hogwarts, to keep them safe. Slowly building up the courage to stand up to the blood purists. Her parents could not believe this and still chose to forget this ever happened. But helping people and standing up to the bullies gave her new confidence. It was much more fulfilling than any class she could take or EE she could’ve gotten. 

[TW: Slight PTSD]

Of course, of course, the war took more than it gave to her. She knows she had it much easier than some people, but the aftermath still lingers with her. Still follow her around. It’s hard to care about things she was interested in before, classes and subjects she even enjoyed sparked nothing. Only charms really stuck with her, trying push down the memories of classes where they did their best to ignore...everything that was happening.

Flashing before her are people that couldn’t be saved. The bodies in the Great Hall. Someone said something along the lines of survivor’s guilt. 

[TW end]

Astoria did not return to take her NEWTS. Instead, bounced from party to party to social gathering to social gathering to fill her time. Her parents still taking care of her from kilometers and kilometers away. Until one day a neighbor asked her to watch their baby girl and Astoria fell in love with taking of children. Even loved getting up early and going to their large flats or sprawling estates to take care of them. She still loves filling her free time with parties and gatherings, but at least she has a job that she loves. She just wishes her parents could understand that as well. 

The time jump...is mostly an annoyance in Astoria’s eyes. Through a series of unfortunate events, she’s found out that she’s not alive in 2029. In fact, she’s been dead for ten years. This is what is most worrisome and plagues her thoughts. She’s not too interested in figuring out why it happened or what caused it.

Character parallels

Sansa Stark (ASoIaF/GoT) + Serena van der Woodsen (Gossip Girl) + Vex’ahlia (Critical Role) + Alison Hendrix (Orphan Black) + Lydia Martin (Teen Wolf) + Rachel Green (Friends) + Emily Fields (Pretty Little Liars) + Glinda (Wicked)

Random Tidbits 

She was enjoying her life before the time skip and so it’s annoying that she’s here and not back in 2001. But in Astoria’s eyes not much has to change, she can still be a nanny and go out and about. In the grand scheme of things, she doesn’t take the time skip that seriously...except for...

The fact that she’s supposed to be d e a d here upsets her greatly. She shouldn’t even be here. Her thoughts about this are extreme and she tries to not let it show how upsetting it is. She puts on her happy face and pushes the feelings aside. Other than that, the time skip is just an annoyance. 

While Astoria makes a lot of her decisions based on emotions rather than facts or logic, she knows how to keep a cool head even in an argument and is very good about walking away when need be.

Except maybe when it comes to talking to her parents about her life and trying to get them to understand where she’s coming from, she gets very emotional talking to them about it.

[TW: Depression + PTSD + ALCOHOL ]

Is low-key depressed (lack of motivation and ambition, going out and drinking far more regularly, feeling of emptiness and like she’ll never make people proud) but is not medicated and has never and doesn’t want to see a therapist. 

Suffers from slight PTSD. Explosions, fireworks, and sometimes just random loud noises still can trigger her as if she’s back at Hogwarts that May. (She chose to stay behind, even though her parents wanted to take her out.) 

[END TW]

Tries to put her energy and time into other people so she doesn’t have to think about herself and her own problems.

While most of her friends and Daphne knows, her parents do not know about her bisexuality. And frankly, she’d like to keep it that way.

Is brilliant at charms and was her favorite class at Hogwarts and is a decent dueler. 

She only qualified to take two NEWT classes (charms and transfiguration), but other than that her grades fell a bit short despite her best efforts.

Worried that people will leave her, this is mostly based on losing people in the war and her own parents being...not the best.

Personality

Very outgoing and extroverted. Would much rather be around a ton of people — a bar, a restaurant, a party, etc — than be alone. People distract her from the fact that she’s basically a dropout that has no prospects.

Also because she can’t stand to be alone with her thoughts. The memories of the war. Of the destruction. The bodies. 

Or her thoughts about her death. She doesn’t know how she died, or why, and frankly she’s not positive she wants to find out.

Empathetic — she’s good at being able to understand people’s feelings and making them feel validated. Meaning she’s also good at getting other people to open up. 

Astoria is great with children and adores them. She’s very nurturing and her maternal instincts kick in almost immediately. 

This goes for...most people regardless. But she’s especially good with children. But if you’re not a complete asshole or Death Eater, she’ll be nice to you.

Tries to be mostly positive and happy, despite the PTSD and depression. She doesn’t want people worrying about her (especially Daphne).

Being upper-class, she’s materialistic and doesn’t quite understand that not everyone can afford designer brands and have cushy flats. Or understand that some people’s parents can’t just give them money.

She is impulsive and will decide to do something slightly drastic at the drop of a hat. Like dying her hair, going out and getting blackout drunk. And has a hard time saying no to things she probably should not do.

For the most part, Astoria has a hard time taking things seriously. She figures that after surviving a war, she’s allowed to be carefree and not worry about her future or jobs or anything that really entails being an adult. She’s not necessarily worried about being in the new timeline, outside of the fact she’s not supposed to be alive.

Has a mean jealous streak that can extend to from friends to romantic partners to just one night stands.

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[mavros-goodfellow]

The Shiz Diaries

From the diary of Tippetarius Saiserit

Day One

I can’t believe Mombi finally said yes! I’ve been asking her to let me attend Shiz for over a year-- it’s the best school for magic in Oz and I know I don’t have a lot of it but perhaps I could learn how to use it like Glinda does, like she learned here.

I moved in just this morning. Mombi had to leave-- it’s a long way to Gillikin from Shiz-- but my new roommate moved in this afternoon and it’s Mavros!

Oh, I suppose you don’t know who Mavros is, being a book and everything. Mavros is the step-son of Glinda the Good herself! His mother is Prince Robin Goodfellow (which I don’t entirely get, but I suppose it makes sense to them-- Mombi said not to question too much anyways) who is Glinda’s husband and sometimes called Puck, and she (he? they? I’m not sure, I’ve heard all three) was here helping him move in. She was very nice though! All the papers make her out to be so scary, but she unpacked Mavros’ things and even helped with a few of mine. She seemed concerned that Mombi wasn’t there to help me, but I explained it all and besides, I’m used to doing things on my own.

Mavros looked so sad to be here. I bet he’s going to miss his mother. I miss Mombi already.

Day Two

Oh, Mavros is wonderful! He’s already agreed to help with the Homecoming Dance, though I will admit that the other students were a little pushy, but only because they were excited! Mavros didn’t seem to know what to say, I’m sure he was so flattered that they would think of him. I know no one really thinks of me. That’s okay, though. Mombi said that my focus should be on my work, not on making friends. The faster I get my work done, the sooner I can go home. She was very anxious that I come home.

But perhaps one friend would be okay. I sure would like to be friends with Mavros. His life must be so amazing-- living in the palace, having the ear of Glinda the Good herself, and he says that he’s over 1200 years old, that sounds incredible.

We had our first classes today. We’re in several of them together, including magic and history. Mavros seemed a bit confusified over his history book, though I suppose he does come from another world. His history will be different than ours. He’s very smart, you can hear it in his voice. His voice is like... like that darkness that fell over Oz. Rich and cold. A calm eternal night. Oh, goodness, now I’m even writing like how he speaks. It’s just so wonderfied. It’s too bad he doesn’t seem to want to talk to anyone. I suppose we’re both a little shy.

Day Three

I wish Mombi was here. All this school work and cleaning the dorm room? Plus people are constantly asking me about Mavros. Mombi always said, even back home, that I do my work first, and then friends. And there’s always more work.

I cleaned the dorm while Mavros was at his committee meeting. I had hoped that he would be happy that the chores were done. He did not seem so. In fact, he seemed rather perplexed.

“I cleaned the room,” I told him.

“Why?”

Mombi never asked me why I did my chores. She only expected me to do them.

“I, ah...”

“It’s fine,” he said. He seemed distracted by something. “Ariel stress-cleans too. Just don’t disinfect anything.”

“Oh.”

I hope I didn’t upset him too much. Something tells me he’s easily upset.

Day Four

Mavros seems very interested in Ozian history. I started talking about the Wizard and the witches and Glinda, and he waved me off. He said something about “the same lies in the history book”. I hope he isn’t mad at me. He’s the only friend I have right now. There’s too much work for any others. I hope i can get everything done in time for the dance. I’d like to go.

Mavros was using this old textbook that I don’t think is part of the curriculum. He seemed to have some trouble reading it. I might have looked at a few pages over his shoulder-- it made sense to me. Maybe written Ozian is different from the languages he’s used to?

Day Five

History class was exciting! Mavros started telling this story about how the Wicked Witch of the West was named Elphaba Thropp and how the Wizard tricked her into doing something bad and how the Wizard was really in the wrong and it was so fantastical I could hardly believe it. I asked him about this story when we got back to the dorm.

“It’s not a story,” he said. “I placed a truth spell on the textbook, it was almost entirely wrong. Besides that, I’ve been told things by Glinda that directly contradict what it says...”

He told me a wonderful story about Elphaba Thropp and how she fought against the Wizard and how Glinda was left in charge. His voice was so wonderful and his eyes, as black as they are, seemed to light up when he talked about her.

“Then why was she called ‘wicked’?” I asked.

“Because... wicked is what people say when they don’t understand,” he said. “Good and evil is not a light switch. People do wrong things not because they’re inherently bad, but often because they’re scared, or angry, and just can’t control...”

I don’t understand, but then, I’m not a 1200-year-old fairy. But perhaps I can believe him. He seems to need someone to believe him.

Day Six

Someone in our history class tried to prank Mavros today. They got me pretty good, but they were trying for Mavros. He took me to the clinic-- I hope I’m not here long, I have so much work to do. Mavros seemed very angry for me. The ones who pulled the prank ended up here, I think Mavros had something to do with it. He didn’t need to, it was just a bucket of water.

Day Seven

They let me out of the clinic today-- I did not get a concussion. That’s nice, they told me I wouldn’t be able to work if I had a concussion. Mavros took me back to the dorm.

“Thank you for making sure I’m okay,” I said. “Though maybe next time, don’t try to take it out on those guys?”

“They were trying to kill me,” he said.

The Wicked Elphaba Thropp was supposedly melted by a bucket of water. I don’t think it would have that effect on him.

“How many times do I have to–”

“Would it have killed you?” I asked

“…No. The cast iron bucket might have burned me some though.”

I tried to turn the conversation. “Why do they even make buckets out of iron? They’d rust, right?”

He almost smiled, but hid it behind his hand.

“You know, Mombi’s a witch,” I said.

“Your mother? Is she...” He caught himself in a question.

“Is she a good witch or a bad witch? I don’t know. She only really does magic for herself.”

“I see.”

I hope he likes me. I’ve never really had a friend before. I think taking a prank that was meant for him makes us friends now.

Day Eight

I really screwed up in magic class today. I was just supposed to make the pumpkin grow. But it grew too much and left! It had vines that made legs and it just... walked away. There aren’t too many people people in magic class, but one of them is Mavros. I know my magic isn’t much, and I haven’t had as long as he has had to work on it, but I’d really rather not make a fool of myself in front of him again.

I want him to like me. I’ve never wanted anyone to like me this bad before. His magic is so wonderified. He controls these shadows and dark areas. They move with him, like they’re a part of him. It’s totally different from any Ozian magic I’ve seen. He doesn’t even need that spellbook, I bet. He jsut does it all on his own.

There was some iron glued on the doorknob to the door of our dorm (that’s a lot of ‘dor’ sounds...). In terms of pranks, even I could tell that was not a great one, but it certainly shook Mavros. I need to watch out for that. I don’t want him getting hurt.

Day Nine

It looks like I’m going to have plenty of time to go to the dance! I’m budgeting my time well enough that it should be easy to get everything done. It’s a masquerade, so I’m going to need to make a costume. I was looking through what I have when I asked what Mavros was going as.

“I... haven’t decided yet.”

“Oh, neither have I,” I said. “Perhaps we could help each other? I can never decide what to wear...”

“I’m not a fairy godparent,” he said.

“No! That’s not what I’m asking,” I said. “Just… you’re always really well dressed– all the newspapers hate you, but love your clothes.”

“Really.”

“Really! I just need a few pointers the night of, before I leave. When I’m not told what to wear, I look stupid.”

“Thou wears the pre-approved school uniform. Thou already looks stupid.”

“See!”

He really does wear such wonderful clothes. His uniform is a double breasted suit and cape with the mandatory stripes on the edge. He almost always wears a silver circlet with a violet stone. I asked him about it once, but he suddenly became very terse. All I know is that it’s important.

Day Ten

Mavros was poisoned today. Someone put iron in his food and he was in almost immediate pain. I helped him to the clinic where he sent for Ariel. Most people don’t get to see Ariel, he keeps to himself in the palace most often. Some people called him the Tempest, especially during the war. I saw him once back then. He was passing our home with a group of soldiers. I don’t think he recognized me. He really is covered in scales, too!

He was in with Mavros for a long time. Mavros seemed to be fine when he got out, but I’m worried.

I haven’t cleaned anything today, I should do that before I go to bed.

Day Eleven

I cleaned the dorm last night, especially taking care to get the iron off the doorknob and any iron in the dorm that might exist. Mavros came in while I was scrubbing the floor.

“Art thou cleaning again?” he asked.

“Yes,” I said.

“You realize that this is a dorm right? That floor’s never going to be clean.”

“Some of the iron fell, I want to make sure it--”

“Tip.”

I stopped. I half wanted him to say my name again.

“This... isn’t stress-cleaning, is it?” he asked.

“Sure it is. That’s what you said, right?” I said.

“Look, I’ll be fine.”

“I don’t want you to get poisoned again,” I said. That’s not what I wanted to say.

“There’s nothing thou canst do about that,” he said. “Except, of course, making certain thou dost not poison me thyself.”

When he doesn’t wear his hair up, it falls in front of of his face just so... My hands were covered in cleaning solution, I couldn’t do anything about it.

Day Twelve

Mavros invited me along to help set up the Ozdust for the dance. There was so much color and everyone was so excited. Except for Mavros, of course. He keeps a very cool head, but I know he’s excited.

“Oh, Mavros! Isn’t this the most wonderful thing you’ve ever seen?” I asked.

“It’s fine I suppose.”

Ariena, one of the other committee members, must have heard him.

“You’ve done nothing to help all day,” she said. “If you think you can do better–”

“Of course I could,” he said.

“Then go ahead!”

Mavros looked around the room.

“Well, I suppose.”

It’s difficult for me to describe Mavros’ magic because I have no idea how it works. He seemed to reach out and take the room, filling it with his magic, with himself. The cool black that matches that voice surrounded us, and I could just reach out and feel it.

And then he built with it. A gildified chandelier and satin and velvet curtains. Candles everywhere-- floating, on tables, in the chandelier. It looked like starlight in his darkness. He pulled it back, and it all was breathtaking. He was...

“How... magical,” was all I could manage to say, but it made him smile. I wish I could make him smile like that for always.

Day Thirteen

Before the Dance

I had put on my owl costume and Mavros almost retched when he saw it.

“What is this, exactly?” he asked.

“…An owl costume?”

“No,” he said. “Let’s try this again.”

He looked me over and started with the cape.

“If there must be a cape, it must be effortless, with clean lines.”

He turned it into a full-length cape of black feathers, which felt far heavier than the cotton one that I’d been wearing. A silver string tied it in the front.

“The rest of the outfit must fit properly. A shirt fits in the shoulders, collar, arms, and waist.”

He gave me a white collared shirt with fringed sleeves.

“The waist coat fits similarly.”

The vest he magicked up for me was black leather, with silver buttons.

“Tie or cravat?” he asked

“What’s a cravat?”

He gave me a scarf type thing made of grey silk, with a silver pin shaped like an owl’s head.

“And that’s tucked into the waist coat like so. Pants should match the waistcoat, but overdoing leather is a distinct possibility. Also, no break at the cuffs. Thou’rt not exactly the tallest, it will create the illusion of such.”

The black pants fit better than any I’d ever worn. Is he that intuitive about my size..?

“And this is a masquerade, not an engineering lab. Goggles are not appropriate.”

The finishing touch was a black silk mask that felt soft against my skin.

“Well?”

I went over to the mirror. I could hardly recognize myself.

“I don’t think I’ve worn anything finer. Does it, like, end at midnight or something?”

He hid a smile, and my heart skipped a beat. “I’m not a fairy godmother. Time limits on magic are idiotic, and I have no use for them. It will last until I lift it.”

I can’t wait to see what he comes as.

After the Dance

Oh, this was the best night of my life! The music was playing, the candles were perfectly lit, and just when it couldn’t get any better...

He was dressed like the sun, all white and gold. I noticed him when he added a layer of sparkles to my cape. He was trying very hard not to be recognized-- he had a full face mask and a wig that I think was real gold. The music turned soft and slow and I went over to offer him a dance. Perhaps it was the lights, or the music, or the costumes, but I suddenly found the courage to be with him like I want to.

I could feel his magic-- I’m not even sure he was conscious of it. His anxiety was calmed as the dance went on. The knots him him loosened, and perhaps for the first time in his life, he was able to be... normal. I’m still not yet certain why he isn’t normal, but he was closer to it. Next to it, at least.

It wasn’t until I got back to my dorm that that I suddenly had the thought of what Mombi might think. The work was done, I could do as I wished... but there’s always more work. But I read a book once that described a relationship as work. And Mavros needs work. But dancing with him tonight, I could feel that he wanted something. He wanted normal.

Perhaps I can give him that.

Day Sixteen

Mavros has been avoiding me for days now, ever since the dance. I can’t imagine what I did to upset him. Even if he didn’t want me, it was just a dance. But that’s not what I found out today.

He looked tired and I went to ask him what was wrong, but when I put my hand on his shoulder, he flinched. I backed away, convinced that he was done with me.

And then he apologized.

“No, no,” he said. “It’s… it’s just been a long day.”

“Yeah, you seem really out of it,” I said. “Is everything okay?”

“I’m fine!”

His shadows reacted. He closed up again, turning away. I could feel them closing in.

“That doesn’t sound fine.”

“It’s nothing.”

“That was your magic.”

“Oh, an expert now, are we?” He winced. I knew that wasn’t how he meant it.

“Well, now you’re sounding like yourself.” I crossed my arms. “You know you can talk to me, right?”

“No, I can’t,” he said. “You wouldn’t understand.”

“Try me.”

“Fine. I was conceived by a dark force of unknown origin. I am trapped every day in its grip and my only option is to keep total control at all times. Now I try to remain civil, but any perception of impropriety and rudeness are mere moments when I am free to express myself.”

I had no idea. I want to tell him that his magic is beautiful, that his remarks are actually funny, that I don’t mind the dark. His hand was shaking, changing. His veins started to turn black.

“I have attempted to control it, but it doesn’t always work.”

I took his hand. And then… the shadows receded. The black veins were gone.

“I imagine some days are worse than others?” I asked.

“Y-yes,” he said. “How–?”

“You don’t have to worry anymore,” I said. “I’m right here.”

I kissed him. I could feel his magic reaching for mine, I could feel everything he did. He was at peace, for perhaps the first time in his life. Finally, the rest of him was as calm as the sound of his voice.

Me? I could have died happy right then.

[auredosa]

New original character time! This is a mood board for Megan Pearlhove, a witch of mine I came up with a few days ago.

TW/CW: alcoholism, bullying

Name: Megan Pearlhove

Schools: Ice (Primary), Life (Secondary), Moon (Teritary, not started yet).

Profession: Third year student at Ravenwood, within the same class as Ophisa Dominique.

World of Origin: Wizard City

Parentage: Her mom, a fairy from Unicorn Way named Trinity, fell in love with a human man named Richard who worked as an engineer in Marleybone. When she married him, she gave up her fairy wings and immortality and gave birth to Megan, a half-fae, half human child.

Eventually, the father found a mistress working abroad, and Trinity was heartbroken. The Pearlhoves divorced, and Trinity opened a tavern on Unicorn Way. She spends most of her time drinking herself to death, wishing she could go back to being a member of the fair folk. She didn’t care much when Megan presented magical abilities, and signed the paperwork for her to attend and live on-campus at Ravenwood.

Current Occupation:

Megan attends Ravenwood and lives in the girls’ dormitory. She has an estranged relationship with her mother and father, which her professors encourage her to amend. She possesses inate healing abilities which she inherited from Trinity, hence why she took up the school of Life as her secondary. She‘s one of the few regular volunteers at Ravenwood’s clinic.

Due to her sheepish nature, Megan‘s often the target of bullying and teasing. During their first two years at Ravenwood, she was particulary harassed by Ophisa Dominique.

Personality:

Megan is soft spoken, empathetic, compassinate, and reserved. She dislikes confrontations, and does better in the classroom than in the arena. She cries easily, and plans on becoming a Druid under Lady Oriel’s mentorship on Unicorn Way.

Hobbies and Interests:

In her spare time, she enjoys collecting things like rocks and leaves, drawing, perusing the trinket and jewelry stores in the Shopping District, and training her pet; a small Snow Beast she found on Colossus Boulevard during her first year at Ravenwood.

She‘s interested in animals and their preservation, including the ancient dinosaurs of Azteca and the legendary winged beasts of Dragonspyre. Unfotunately, this causes her to cross paths with Ophisa at their Monstrology class under Glinda Burke.

Please ask me anything about her! I need a distraction from finals.

[mredwinsmith]

7 Up-and-Coming Artists You Have to Know | The New Class of Pastelists

Pastel Journal recently asked a few movers and shakers in the pastel universe to tell us about up-and-coming artists who’ve caught their attention this year. And the pastel artists they included in their must-watch lists so far certainly know how to turn heads.

Have we peaked your interest? You can be ahead of the curve by getting to know these seven rising artists of 2017!

Melodie Cook

Nancy Trotter Landry and Bobby—Giffords Circus by Melodie Cook

  Melodie Cook began her artistic career in the Italian fashion industry. After 18 years, she left to set up a design studio. There, she worked on art and illustrations for children’s books, stationery, ceramics and glass.

After a few years, she returned to England to study fine art in London. Cook was elected as a member of The Pastel Society U.K. this past spring.

Ivan Hoo

Goldendoodle by Ivan Hoo, pastel, charcoal and ink on plywood

  Ivan Hoo is a self-taught artist out of Singapore. His hyperrealistic paintings of fuzzy bunnies and friendly dogs have been featured in The Huffington Post.

The artist also paints still life. But he favors the everyday objects of a 21st-century consumer, such as spilling jars of Nutella and crushed Starbucks cups, for his trompe l’oeil treatment.

Anne Strutz

Hanging Out in the 21st Century by Anne Strutz

  A lover of art from an early age, Anne Strutz pursued this passion throughout her work as a designer, teacher and artist. Her works in pastel have been accepted into several major shows, including the International Association of Pastel Societies’ 28th Juried Exhibition at the Salmagundi Club in New York City.

Claudine Gévry

Winter Lights by Claudine Gévry

  When not spending time on her own fine art painting, Claudine Gévry works as a children’s book illustrator. She has contributed art to more than 70 books so far.

All of her illustrations are done with soft pastels, which has helped her develop her techniques in the medium.

  Antonio Abad

Dunes, No. 1 by Antonio Abad (19¾x27½)

  Antonio Abad’s body of pastel work, shown widely throughout Spain, includes landscape and seascape, and still life subjects, excecuted with a painterly touch.

  Gary Rupp

Serenity by Gary Rupp

  Gary Rupp’s interest in art, which he studied in college, was reawakened 10 years ago when he began taking classes again. Now retired, he is been able to focus full-time on pastel painting.

His work has appeared in a number of local and national-level exhibitions.

Glinda Schafer

Cocodrie Saltwater Marsh (24×36)

  Although she has made her home in a variety of locations, Glinda Schafer has always lived near the coast, and her love of water has been a major source of inspiration and a recurring theme in her artwork.

Who are some of your favorite pastel artists? Be sure to share them with us in the comments!

    The post 7 Up-and-Coming Artists You Have to Know | The New Class of Pastelists appeared first on Artist's Network.

from Artist's Network http://ift.tt/2y3Fd78

[arosegardenofstories-blog]

Project Churchill 3

Hey guys here’s chapter 3.  I’m planing on releasing chapters every Friday and posting videos every other Friday to address your comments or questions.  I Hope you guys like it.    

Chapter 3

"Seriously?" I asked him.  “What the hell made you think you could just break into my house?” He tilted his head toward the light, feigning a look of innocence. “Well,” he pressed his hands together, “I figured I could save you some time.”   I sighed as I pinched the bridge of my nose.  “James,” I say “You aren’t paying me anywhere near the amount you should be for me to be risking my life like I am; let alone having the nerve to break into my house when you please.” “We can discuss payment, as I think I have everything I need.” He paused, “Can I see the pictures you took this morning?” “Yeah just let me hook my camera up to my laptop.” I walked over to the desk and signed into my laptop, and pulled the camera out of my bag.  I could feel James come stand behind me as I inserted the cord into the USB port.  I opened the file of  pictures as James leans down to look at the screen over my shoulder; letting him look through all of them while he decided what which ones he wanted to keep. “You know Minna, you’re really good at what you do.  Did you ever consider photography?”   “No, solving crimes is practically engraved into my DNA.” I retorted dryly. “Even the petty ones?” I nodded, “Especially those.” We continued to flip through until he told me which ones to print.  As he walked over to the printer he asked, “Now, about your final payment…” “You know the rules James.”  I turned in my office chair to face him.  “I charge $500 upfront and the rest I’m paid by the hour and expenses, and honestly, I think today was pretty high on expenses.” “How much are we talking about?” “I think you would consider a thirty percent increase from the total wouldn’t be unreasonable.” I watched as his right eyebrow cocked up.  “Thirty?” “Life is a hard expense James,” I said coldly “It’s irreplaceable and today I almost lost mine just so you could get your blackmail material.” “True enough.  How about twenty percent that’s more than fair.” “Twenty-five.” “Twenty-three.” “Twenty-seven.  And I won’t settle for less.  You don’t get to wake me up at three o’clock in the morning, have me risk my life, and break into my house all in one day for twenty percent.” “Fine consider it done.” I watched as he effortlessly walked toward my desk and sat on the opposite side.  I reached down to one of the draws and pulled out his hanging folder and placed it on the desk.  I went through it and find the payment agreement he signed and my recites for all my expenses, along with the normal pay stub.  I quickly factored in the twenty-seven percent increase and pushed the documents toward him.   “Here are the documents we agreed on and the total cost of everything, including the twenty-seven percent bonus.”  I circled all the import information as he pulls out his checkbook.   “Make it out to Lina Anderson.” He looks up at me questioning, “I don’t like to have any connection to my clients after a job.” I explain. He nodded and went back to writing. He finishes looking down. “That’s a lot of zeros.” “And it’s worth every dime.”   I said as I took the check from his outstretched hand.   I looked through the folder and pull out the NDA I have all my clients sign at the end of a job.  “You can either sign this now or have your lawyer look over it and send it to me latter.  Its just a basic NDA saying that you won’t expose anything confidential about my business and the business we shared during the job.” “Isn’t that being a little paranoid?” “I like to be safe rather than sorry.” He sighed as he scrawls his name and initials onto the document.  Pushing it toward me he stood,  hand poised to shake mine; I took it firmly. “It’s been a pleasure Ms. Churchill.” “Same to you Mr. Easton, for the most part.” I walked him to the door and watch as he walks down the street and turns the corner leading him out of my life.  I closed the door and lean on it, letting the lack of adrenaline come over me.  I dragged myself up the stairs and flopped on my bed.  Another case closed, another nap calling my name.

I woke up to a cacophony of distinct but distorted sounds.  I could hear my phone ringing next to my ear, someone banging on the door, and someone possibly Maurice, the neighborhood junkie, wailing outside.  God,  why can’t people just leave me alone today.  I stretched my arm out to grab my phone and saw that the time read 12:30 and that Chloe was calling me.  Hell that’s the longest I’ve slept in a long time. I answered, clearing my throat, trying to get the sense of sleepiness out of my voice. “Hello?” I gruffed. Chloe responded with her normal bubbly, “Hey Mimi!” I rolled my eyes at the childhood nickname. “What’s up?” I asked as I walked down the steps to get the door. “Are we still on for today?”  Her question made me pause on the steps. “On for what?” “It’s Friday silly.  Remember we’re supposed to do lunch, the mall, a sleepover, the works!” “Oh yeah,” I say as I continued down the steps, crossing across the room to the door. “You won’t believe what happened to me on the last job.”  I started to open the door not bothering to look through the peep hole; knowing that it’s probably Maurice coming to ask me to point him in the direction of his house....again.  I opened the door to find Glinda Easton in all her glory, and her trusty sidekick John as Chloe excitedly exclaims, “Oooh spill!” As I try to close the door John pushes his hand against it, forcing it to stay open. “Um Chlo, Imma have to call you back.”

My heart was racing as I sat in my office chair across from Glinda and John was standing guard at the door.  I tried to get my breathing under control.  I raised my head to speak. “How did you find me?” My voice came out more breathy than I wanted it too.   Glinda crossed her right leg over the left.  She looked elegant in her ivory colored tailored pant suit.  Her posture was perfect as she straightened her jacket. “Well dear,” she cooed “you don’t necessarily drive a popular car.  And of course John got your license plate.  After that it was only a matter of tracking you through the DMV.” I briefly turned to look at John, wondering if I could out run him to the backdoor of the house.  The sound of Glinda’s voice caused me to turn back around. “Don’t think about escape.  John’s brother Rob is at the backdoor.” Damn.  If one thing is for sure, Glinda Easton knew how to do security. “What do you want?” I asked impatiently.  Seriously I’m getting tired of everyone interrupting my day.   I watched as Glinda tilted her face into the light.  I noticed that her face looks unnaturally smooth for a woman of her age, she’s definitely had some work done; and a lot of it by the looks of her face. “Minna you and I are both smart capable women; let’s not waste time by running about the bush. “Fine,” I retorted “I’ll bite.  You’re mad that I caught you and your lover boy in the parking garage.” Glinda smiled.  “I knew you were a smart girl.” “But what do you want?” “Isn’t it obvious?” she paused “I want you to give me the reaming photos you have and delete the digital copies.” “I can’t.” “Excuse me?” She looked surprised. “I gave the print copies to your husband and I can’t give you the digital copies.” “Can’t or won’t?” “Both.  I’ve signed an NDA with your husband explaining that I won’t share any of the photos with anyone other than him.  So even if I wanted to give them to you I can’t.” “But I’m his wife. Surely there’s something that can be done to-” “From my understanding  Glinda, your marriage with James is over and you’re the only one refusing to sign the divorce papers.  Why because you’re prenup will leave you in the middle class with the rest of us instead of the polished throne you’re used to?” I watched Glinda’s mouth as she tried to form words.  Her lips moved but no sound comes out.  From the looks of it she didn’t think I know how to do my job thoroughly.   “Did you really James wouldn’t disclose the full details of your relationships?” “No.” Glinda cried, her voice returning to her.  “But I-” "James provided me with everything, before taking this case."I reach down into one of the draws to get the Easton file.  I heard John rush forward trying to stop me.  I turn my chair towards him. “Relax Hercules.” I ordered. “I’m just getting a file to show Her Majesty.” I pulled the file out the draw, and pushed it toward her.   “The top is a summary of the prenup between you and James.” I looked at Glinda as she read. “I have a question for you Glinda.  Why ruin a perfectly good marriage for a boy that’s young enough to be your son?”   She looked up through her lashes. “James and I have always had different tastes especially in old age.  I needed something new.” “And you thought that Liam would be enough to spice things up?” I thought about her motives for this whole affair while she looks at the invisible hole between her feet.  This woman ruined her marriage for a man, who honestly still qualifies as a boy just to spice up her marriage?  That didn’t make sense.  I thought about the possibilities.  Maybe she wanted revenge for something James did, maybe she was looking for an excuse to end her marriage, and maybe and most likely, she has some type of fetish for younger men.  A sudden thought strikes me and I realize that I don’t care either way.  I want her out of my house and for everyone else to leave me alone today.   “Glinda,” I said; pulling her out of her imagination, “I’m going to have to ask you to leave.” “Not until I get what I came for.” This whole day has been a pain in the ass.  I’ve had terrible nightmares,  had to work before day break, have been shot at, and had my house broken into.  I’m really not in the mood for this.  I stood up, towering over Glinda, hoping to play out the difference of the power levels between us correctly. “Glinda, I don’t have the energy for this.  I need you and your sidekicks to get out of my house and leave me alone. Now.” “Fine.” I watched her as she picked up her purse and strode over to John.  Turning over her shoulder she said, “This isn’t over Churchill.” “Actually, Glinda I think it is.  You are one of the forefront minds in psychology correct?”  She paused at the door, clutching her purse to her chest.   “What does that have to do with-” “Glinda, I may not be on good terms with Baltimore City Police right now, but they do owe me a couple of favors.” “What are you-” “I’m sure they would love to see the bank records, videos, and pictures of you and your patients.  Especially the pictures.” She moved her lips, looking like a gaping fish while trying to form the right words. “I take it that you won’t be coming around here again, and James won’t have any trouble finalizing the divorce papers?” She nodded and turned to John.  He opened the door for her and followed behind her; leaving my door still open.  I walk over and close it and tried to pull myself together before Chloe came to pick me up.