#the colour scheme is immaculate

[notes-in-the-margins]

Here Comes the Son - 3x21

[froginamoodboard]

Princess Elody of Greenleigh moodboard

Requested by: @auroratoryy

x x x x x x x x x

[intelligentbiscuit]

Listen this is an odd thought to have at like 2am but like, people who get their thumbnails commissoned by artists or have like a dedicated artist for thumbnails just give me so much joy. I'm aware it doesn't work for some and it doesn't get as many clicks but y'know it's cool to see sometimes

I hope this ramble made sense?? I'm just word vomiting at this point

I just saw some insanely cool art and wanted to yell about it. It might be a bit silly to be so aaah about it but like ;; but pretty

also to add, the character designs?? the expressions?? like I have no clue what's going there but it's cool to look at

...might be why I've gotten into drawing backgrounds/scenario stuff lately

[delirious-donna]

Bath Time Gone Wrong [Part One]

an: a huge thanks to @satorini for the prompt that produced this. Let's see if this goes anywhere... it sure has potential.

prompt: Your best friend lets you crash at her place over the spring break since you have nowhere else to go. Little did you know that it isn't actually her place. Instead, it belongs to a tall (grumpy) hot guy who finds you in his apartment–her brother.

pairing: Nanami Kento x female reader

warnings: none, SFW

Series Masterlist | Part Two

You couldn’t believe your luck. Not only was your friend clearly loaded, they had immaculate taste as well. All of this you might never have discovered if it hadn’t been for a miscommunication that left you with no place to stay over spring break.

It would be wrong to blame your parents for forgetting that you would be coming home for the two week break, instead arranging for the family home to be renovated whilst they cruised to goodness knows where, but you still felt that stab of disappointment and hurt in your gut. One phone call to confirm dates would have fixed that, but no, what was done was done.

Instead, you found yourself in a penthouse apartment that your friend from college said you could use as it was currently sitting empty. Those were Karin’s exact words, “Don’t worry about it, the place is empty anyways. May as well make the most of it!”

Whistling through your teeth, you did a slow 360 spin of the entranceway. 

The moment your Uber had pulled up outside the building you had an inkling that the inside was going to be luxurious, and you were dead right. The penthouse apartment on the very top floor needed a code and a swipe of a keycard to access by elevator. Your fingers fumbled on the keypad in your nervous excitement, only blowing out a breath of relief when you began to move smoothly upward.

As the doors opened, you found that the apartment was almost entirely open plan with panoramic windows of the cityscape lining the length of the wall in front of you. “Well, fuck…”  

The decor wasn’t quite minimalist, there were too many home comforts to allow for that, but everything was clean lines and muted colour palettes. The sprawling couch scattered with one too many throw pillows, a basket of neatly folded blankets of every type of thickness tucked into the corner and a lush potted plant with long spiky green leaves all added that homely touch that true minimalist apartments lacked.

It was spacious but oddly welcoming with a rich scent that permeated the air, French coffee and freshly baked bread. You wondered if there was perhaps a housekeeper or someone that stopped by every few days to keep the place ticking over.

That thought was how you found yourself exploring deeper into the apartment, searching for an occupied room or some sign of life. There were no noises to be heard, no telltale signs that a terrified housekeeper might pop out any moment and scare the bejeezus out of you. What you did find was several seemingly unused bedrooms in different colour schemes and what you assumed was the master bedroom.

What a sight.

The bed dominated the majority of the room, a thick grey duvet adorned with pillows and a turned down fleece lined blanket on top. What kind of luxury lifestyle did Karin live that she had this kind of place stashed away, unused?

Perhaps you should have peeked inside the closets or the walk-in wardrobe at the very least, but you were drawn like the proverbial moth to a flame by the enticing peek of an en-suite bathroom.

Dumping your small wheelie suitcase and hold-all by the bed, you scurried towards the pristine black and white marble decorated room. It was safe to say you were giggling like an idiot, hands clapping together at the generously sized tub and did it have jets too? Oh my gosh, it did!

In your pure unfiltered joy, you found some jasmine scented bubble bath tucked away behind the bathroom mirror, completely overlooking the men’s razor and bottle of expensive cologne that sat beside it.

A bath would be exactly the thing to begin your new adventure. You could soak, shave your legs, listen to some music and contemplate what you could get up to with your two weeks here. Oh, takeout! You could order something super decadent and pretend that this was actually your place for a little while. 

The possibilities were endless. 

You set your phone up in the bathroom, finding a favourite playlist and blasting the music louder than you would have done back home. No one would mind, you were alone and the noise surely wouldn’t filter to any of the apartments below.

This was going to be an amazing spring break, you could feel it.

Kento was tired. What was new?

A weary hand passed over his face as he examined his reflection in the elevator mirror. Has he always looked this tired? Maybe.

He exhaled as the doors opened into his apartment, but only two steps forward told him that something was not right. Nothing had been touched or moved in the living area or kitchen, yet an unfamiliar scent mingled with the one he was used to. 

Slowly, he deposited his briefcase and shrugged out of his jacket to hang it in the closet by the front door. He kicked out of his too-tight shoes and two fingers loosened the knot of his tie whilst his frown deepened.

His home office was exactly as it should be. The same with his little gym studio. None of the unoccupied guest bedrooms were disturbed, including the one that Karin had long claimed as her own for when she visited once in a blue moon.

Had Karin decided to visit thinking that he’d be away on the business trip that was cancelled last minute? It would be just like her to do something like that, but he was certain she would have stayed away from his room—the master suite.

Now certain to find his baby sister, who was as far from being a baby than ever, somewhere within the walls of his home, he felt his temper bubble. He didn’t need to be disturbed during what was pitched to him as mandated paid time off.

Kento was already annoyed by the idea that was forced upon him earlier this afternoon, and it wasn’t until he reached his building did he begin to think perhaps it was a blessing. Honestly, he couldn’t remember the last time he had taken any vacation time. A week or so to unwind, maybe read for the first time in months, sample a new whisky imported from Scotland… 

The possibilities were endless.

He spied a small suitcase open on his bed, the contents a riotous jumble that made his head pound just to look at. A trail of clothing led from the bed to the bathroom door which stood slightly ajar. Perfumed steam escaped and his teeth grit together in irritation. Music played rather loudly in his opinion, a bright bubbly song with lyrics in a different language he couldn’t understand.

Did he dare to burst into the bathroom and scare the living daylights out of his darling little sister? The idea was tempting. The only downside being that he had no interest in mistakenly seeing her in some state of undress if she hadn’t yet made it into the bath. He would listen a little longer, wait until he was sure he wasn’t going to irreparably damage both his eyesight and his psyche before acting. 

Kento padded around the bed, pulling his tie off and throwing it on the pillow to deal with later. The top three buttons on his shirt unbuttoned easily and breathing became a little easier again. Not for the first time, his mood shifted again. It would be nice to see Karin, catch up and find out how school was going. There was never enough time during the holidays to really enjoy her company so maybe this was all working out for the best.

He was still going to give her the fright of her life though.

The sound of splashing reached his ears and he smiled. Memories of tormenting his little sister rose to the surface whilst he tiptoed silently towards the bathroom door. He could hear the sound of humming along to the music and he had to stifle a snort of laughter, singing was not her forte.

A strong hand gripped the edge of the door. Kento held his breath, preparing to yell. Silently, he counted to three and leapt inside.

“Boooo!”

You had never screamed so loud in your entire life. A man was standing in the doorway of the bathroom, his features twisted in amusement but quickly shifting into sheer mortification.

Water sloshed over the side of the bath, bubbles going up your nose as you pushed your body low into the fragrant water. An intruder!

“Who the fuck are you?” You yelled indignantly, anger finally overcoming the terror ripping through your heart. Whoever he was, he was tall and incredibly pissed off. 

His blond hair fell into his eyes, a hand the size of a dustbin lid swiping it back only to highlight the furious scrunch of his eyebrows. Sharp hazel eyes swung between you and the wall, clearly unsure where to look. In other circumstances, you would have called him good-looking, handsome even but not when you were so very vulnerable.

He spoke, almost to himself. “You’re not Karin…” 

You knew that name, it was your friend’s name. This was her pl—Shit, this wasn’t her place. You could scream.

“I’m Nanami Kento, and you’re in my bath. Who are you?”

[bee-calm]

tbhk but they're lab-based phd students- because sometimes you just need to make the most self-indulgent au you can think of

nene

marine microbiology

talks to her culture plates, swears it makes them grow faster

tries to put cute labels on her samples then can’t remember what ANY of her shorthand means the next day

forgets her pass and gets locked out at least once a day 

algae clip-art in all of her presentations

sings in the microscope room, thinks nobody can hear her singing in the microscope room

once thought she’d re-written scientific dogma then realised she’d put a decimal point in the wrong place

thinks transcriptomics is witchcraft. is currently doing transcriptomics.

brings chocolates for the rest of the lab, is everyone’s favourite because of it

became best friends with aoi when they somehow managed to double-book the flow cytometer

could read those papers she’s been saving for weeks, OR she could spend two hours changing the colour scheme on her figures 

amane

materials chemistry, probably something space-exploration-aligned

pure synthesis, if it’s bigger than a kilodalton then he doesn’t want it anywhere near him

if there is an unlabelled round-bottom flask in the lab freezer then there’s a 90% chance it belongs to him. claims he can tell the chemicals apart by Vibes alone (amane voice: nmr is for Weaklings)

worlds messiest fume hood, yet somehow the worlds most immaculate desk-space. (currently the biggest scientific mystery the rest of the lab is working towards) 

will tell people (read: kou) that biochem isn’t real chemistry just to cause problems 

really good at teaching project students

also really good at scaring the project students by pretending to drink the toxic chemicals

extensive lanyard pin collection 

nobody has ever actually seen him go home

has a set of glassware-themed coffee mugs. much debate as to whether or not he just stole them from the lab.

kou

structural biology

just a guy and his 10 litre E.coli grow-up

once spilled an vat of LB all over the bacteria room. legend has it the stains are still there to this day

banned teru from the cryoEM room after he walked in and the entire setup almost crashed 

likes modelling structures, wonders why his computer is always running so slowly, fails to consider that the 5 pymol projects he has open at all times may have something to do with it

serial offender for walking home still wearing his goggles

thinks mammalian cell work is witchcraft 

incredibly chaotic labwork processes, still somehow gets the results anyway. most common saying: ‘this is not going in the methods section’

once dropped his earring into the liquid nitrogen tank, has still not lived it down 

has a framed photo of his first crystal on his desk

ongoing war with mitsuba over whether electron microscopy is real microscopy or not

keeps taking on side projects for other people, has yet to realise that this may be the reason he never gets to go home on time

teru

molecular biology

theory x1000, ask him a question after his presentation and there’s a 90% chance he’s got a bonus slide already prepared to answer it

benchwork also x1000, that person who asks ‘oh can i try?’ and gets amazing results first time on the experiment you’ve been trying to get right for weeks.

cell culture x0, banned from the tissue culture room, WILL contaminate any flask put within 5 feet of him

the machines hate him. the centrifuge keeps trying to eat his samples. the plate reader breaks on him at least once a week.

serial weekender

stickler for lab safety, can and will send out threatening emails reminding people to wear their gloves and lab coats

once drew the entire signalling cascade for his target molecule from memory on the whiteboard in a lab meeting and it was impressive enough that nobody has wiped it off yet 

keeps doing horrendous timecourses, can be found taking plate readings at stupid o clock in the morning 

aoi

immunology 

the flow panels she manages to pull off are a constant subject of awe and horror 

likes working weekends because it means nobody can hear her verbally threatening her cell cultures when they’re not behaving

can fit a scary amount of information onto the lid of an eppendorf tube

when stressed can be found hiding out in the plant biology greenhouses. has made friends with some genetically modified tomatoes

rocks up to the lab meeting with publication-ready figures for an experiment she did yesterday

the source of 90% of the passive aggressive post-it notes around the lab

everyone dreads her post-presentation questions. will dissect your experiments and do it with a smile.

started off working normal hours but has gradually become borderline nocturnal over time

teru contaminated her cells once, has been using it as leverage to make him collect things from stores for her ever since

keeps giving akane’s email to sales reps instead of her own so she can get free stuff without ever being contacted by them again

akane

biophysics 

scary single molecule data, deliberately puts huge equations on his presentations so nobody will ask him questions

might as well get paid lab tech wages too, chronically stuck on stock solution duty

crashed the lab computer trying to run one of his datasets on it

the only reason the lab has a booking system for the equipment. anarchy would prevail if he wasn’t around.

will go off to do photobleaching experiments and emerge hours later looking like a cave creature

keeps having to fix the equipment that teru breaks

perpetually receiving emails meant for aoi by people who got their names mixed up

also perpetually receiving emails from the company sales reps who aoi told his email to so she wouldn’t have to deal with them

says he needs to stop working weekends, then suddenly it’s saturday and he’s stuck in the microscope room with teru again

has somehow acquired a small army of project students (none of them are studying the same thing as him)

incubation time= coffee time

mitsuba

cell biology

made a cell line, treats it like it’s his baby

trust issues, won’t let ANYONE share his reagents. serial pipette hoarder.

neat lab book, can still somehow never find where he put his protocols or what concentrations he used his antibodies at

could probably win an award for his immunofluorescence images, someone automatically turns the lights off when it’s his turn to present in lab meetings bc he’s guaranteed to have cool microscopy to show

thinks bacteria work is disgusting. ensures kou knows this.

[emerging from a 5-hour session in the microscope room] what day is it?????

loves his work, doesn’t act like it (the reagents smell bad. the lab benches are dirty. people keep using the milk he brought to put in the fridge. nobody cleans the water bath. if there’s nothing to complain about, he’ll make something.)

threatens to move to industry at least once a day 

outright refuses to do weekends

found the perfect colour scheme for his graphs, considers this the highlight of his entire degree

any minor inconvenience is an excuse to go to the cafe on campus

natsuhiko

innate immunity, infection

zebrafish models

nobody is sure if he bought a tie-dye lab coat or if it’s just that badly stained

has absolutely named his fish (doesn’t actually remember which is which, but the sentiment is there)

forever followed by a gaggle of project students. is constantly reminding them to do as he says, not as he does 

incubation times are a suggestion, not a rule (read: keeps getting distracted and leaving his experiments way longer than necessary)

convinced he’s going to be patient zero of the zombie apocalypse when he accidentally creates super-salmonella and infects himself 

serial distractor, WILL chat to people while they’re in the middle of a 96-well plate

isn’t going to eat the LB agar, but the temptation is always there

someone bought him the ‘women want me, fish fear me’ hat for his birthday, keeps it on his desk

the confocal microscope hates to see him coming (5 hours is a short session when you’re trying to take z-stacks of an entire fish)

sakura 

drug discovery 

probably dabbles in synthesis, plays orchestral music while running columns bc apparently it gives them better separation 

tea drawer in the office, WILL pull out an entire teapot during their incubation times 

best dressed person in the lab, at all times

eternal struggle of dangly earrings versus the samples they’re leaning over

neat handwriting, still terrible at labelling eppendorfs (what are the lids so small for)

incubation times to the second

runs BIG experiments, has mastered the art of the plate plan. made a template which has somehow ended up distributed around the entire department 

ceo of not replying to sales rep emails 

mildly allergic to the nitrile gloves, the drawer below the tea drawer is the hand cream drawer

earphones + cell culture is the ideal de-stress activity

over-prepares for presentations, will spend 2 weeks rehearsing an informal flash talk

probably the only person who actually sends their lab coat to get washed

mei

tissue engineering 

has designed all of her labmates a mug with terrible research-relevant science puns on them 

invented side-projects, has probably got a collaboration ongoing with every other lab in the department 

bought a label printer for her reagents, has way too much fun with it

thought a week-long experiment was bad? try two months

life goal is to get to try making DNA origami just to say she did it

keeps starting doodle chains on the lab whiteboard

experiment worked= sweet treat to celebrate

experiment failed= sweet treat to commiserate 

probably did a masters in the microbiology department, they keep trying to convince her to switch projects back to them bc her streak plating was gallery-worthy

picks up her lab coat and 10 pens fall out of the pockets

sold her soul to parafilm

tsukasa

RNA therapeutics

goes in cell culture with no gloves, still somehow doesn’t get contamination 

that one insane person who actually enjoys the stress of working with RNA

doesn’t even do SDS-PAGE but still has coomassie stain all over his lab coat 

keeps launching dry ice rockets 

homebrewed a microfluidics system in the lab, it makes weird noises at night and everyone is slightly terrified of it

keeps materialising in the corner of the microscope room when mitsuba is in the middle of taking images. the cause of many a dropped slide.

plots his data in excel

worlds worst file names. no system, no dates, just a keyboard smash and a prayer

who needs desk space when you can just move your laptop into the lab

gave into temptation and tasted the cell culture media once. it was disappointing 

either the most incoherent presentation you’ve ever seen, or a major scientific breakthrough, no inbetween 

[everybody-loves-purdy]

If the Erins are intending for Moonpaw and Goldenpaw to become a couple when they're named warriors, then I'll really be looking forward to some sun & moon imagery of the two, with Moonpaw's name & split face + Goldenpaw's golden fur and radiant personality.

I don’t want them to become a couple mainly because of the incest implications (see the image below 💀) and also because the Erins love giving us main character het romance, but I cannot deny their vibe based on names and colour schemes would be immaculate

[scotianostra]

June 10th 1903 saw the floral clock in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh, begin operation

Driven by clockwork and with only an hour hand it was the first of its kind in the world.

Each year the planting scheme commemorates a special anniversary.In 1973, an electric motor was installed to keep the clock hands moving. Before then the clock’s mechanism had to be wound daily.

The clock is not only an immaculately tended floral display in the shape of a clock, it also tells the correct time. The planting schemes are designed by the Technical team in the Parks and Greenspace Service. The colourful displays take 30,000 plants, and a variety of flower and foliage plants are used in the designs. All are of a dwarf nature, suitable for carpet bedding, including annuals such as Lobelia, Pyrethrum and Golden Moss and succulents such as Echeveria and Sedum.

The man we have to thank is Edinburgh Parks Superintendent, John McHattie.

The 2025 design is currently being planted, and it is expected to be completed soon. The RNIB has been chosen for this year's subject. The clock will mark the 200th anniversary of the invention of braille - and it will be in full bloom from June through to September.

The most recent pics taken a week ago are from my good friend Alistair Dawson.

[improbable-outset]

What Canva, Pinterest and free will does to a girl…

Idk what to calls these but they’re loosely inspired by those little moodboards that @lazyjellyfish300 makes…

Magazine covers??

The Ken Sato one is my fave, the colour scheme is just immaculate here.

And I had to add the famous line from Coach Shimura ‘It takes more than attitude to be a Giant’ cold 😮‍💨😮‍💨

I made a one for Shadow since the movies coming out the end of this year

I put Crush 40 lyrics, duh. It’s just fitting

And Miguel obviously!!

Icl, I don’t really like the way this one came out 😭 everything’s kinda all over the place and it doesn’t align properly

[phnog]

Here's another group of the Order of the Immaculate Heart. This is from a while ago, so I did eventually give them all black hair, but it gives you a good feel for the colour scheme.

Feels a bit Papal to me, which I guess is kind the point?

[talaofthevalley]

if it hasn't been asked already. revolver for the ask game? your postings are fun to read

smacks my desk MY BOY, THANK YOU FOR GIVING HIM TO ME. also thank you that's so sweet of you to say

Why I like them/why I don’t Where do I even start-

He's one of the most honourable characters in the whole franchise. He's ridiculously composed, that the few times he's rattled you know it's significant. He's carrying the sins of his father like they're his own, even though he was eight when the incident happened. But it's like he understands he's the only one who can carry that burden and deliver closure to the ones affected because he wasn't one of the perpetrators, but was still involved and wrapped up in it all.

But he's also a dork who strikes poses during duels. His deck consists of gun and bullet dragons. He's so extra and camp in the best way and is never not taken as a very serious threat. He's one of the strongest duelists in the show. He doesn't consider himself a victim of anything. He was willing to die at the end of S1. He regularly finds the villain of the arc/his enemies first and almost murks them. He's connected to flower and ocean imagery. He gave one of the most beautiful description about loved ones who has passed away I've ever heard. He cares So Much but isn't the best at showing it, yet can help in just the way others need. He hates himself so damn much. But does not let that get in the way of what he believes needs to be done. But he's not completely close-minded either.

Ryoken's just such an amasing character. I love him so much.

What I like about their appearance Everything Since I did the same for Aoi I'll do both his real world and LV designs.

Ryoken: Gorg. Beautiful beautiful boy. I love the soft tones used for his eyes and the blue in his hair. The feathery side bangs are so pretty. And I'm so weak for white hair. I'm not above to admitting I'm not fond of his outfit, but that's just because it's very far from my taste in clothes. I don't think it's as bad as people claim it is though. Love his pink shirt, and that his colour scheme overall in the real world is very soft-toned and almost pastel in contrast to the bolder colours used in his avatar. And of course the eyes, and the eyelashes. My god he is so pretty.

Revolver S1: I like this design! I do think it's usurped by his second avatar, but they share a majority of the same elements and design points, so I'll cover those in the next part. I think his mask is pretty cool ngl, and it's Very yummy to chew on for analysis. The red hair with lighter shades running up the sides looks great as well.

Revolver S2-3: I do think this is just, an absolutely banging design. The way it's separated into parts through use of colours and lines. Love the long gloves, and the coat is so cool, it really adds to his presence. The second avatar did a good I think by adding these cut-ins at the hips to give it more definition and volume.

The new hair colour is really good too, adds another change besides the mask showing more of his face to show his growth from the last time we saw him. Like a visual sign he's mellowed out after the breakdown he had in the S1 finale. Especially love the grey-violet eye colour they gave him, it's really nice. And that visor.... I know it's a crime they hide half of his beautiful face, but it's also so exciting to catch glimpses of his fringe under it. And it does look cool, I can't lie.

And of course I have to point out the bullet earrings. Top tier design. Just immaculate. It's so distinct and memorable. It even got made into official merch. Just iconic.

Do I prefer their dub names or original names? His name only gets a letter hacked off in the dub, thankfully, but I cannot take Varis seriously. It's a bit silly, but also in my first language it's spelled and sounds very close to a word for something less than pleasant =_=

OTP Datastormshipping my beloved, datastorm my everything. I can say so much about them but it would make this post even longer.

NOTP Datastorm is such an otp to me that I don't romantically ship either Ryoken or Yusaku with any other character. I don't think anything comes close to NOTP status for me with Ryoken though.

OT3 But I can accept Ai into the mix, since I see him and Yusaku as very queerplatonic.

Favourite card they use Am I basic if I say Borreload Dragon. I love that giant gun boy so much. The colour scheme is very nice, especially with the contrasting teal wings.

But also. Mirror Force is so iconic. It is SO FUNNY they had Revolver use Mirror Force and built it up so much. And for Link monsters it technically is! They can't be put in defense position! How effective it is makes it even funnier. You know he was having a blast blindsiding people with all these old trap cards.

Favourite moment they were in I can't pick one oh god-

Okay but, seriously I can't pick just one. He has so many good moments over the course of the show. All the duels against Yusaku. The first irl conversation he has with Yusaku. First time using Storm Access. Crashing the Ignis reunion party and curbstomping Windy into putty. The due against Lightning. The AFTERMATH of the duel against Lightning. Both duels against Takeru. The final scene between Ryoken and Yusaku. Yeah no I can't pick one. And a lot of his best moments are built from past scenes and the development he's had across the show.

Least favourite moment None, my perfect boy has done nothing wrong in his whole life- /j

[amarynthian-chronicles]

Our Guest Chapter 1

Vampire!Sun, Vampire!Moon, Vampire!Eclipse x Hunter Reader

(You arrive at a sinister and luxurious castle with the innocent intention of checking why its mysterious residents haven't been paying any taxes or utilities for the past several centuries. Very useful excuse for a vampire hunter to have when trying to do some good old infiltrating. The three vampire lords however, fully intend to capture and seduce you, but that is a bit difficult when you keep asking them about their financial books. Will they be able to make you theirs? Are they onto your little schemes and playing along? Will you finally get that plate of cupcakes? We'll find out)

“There is a beautiful and delicious darling waiting at our castle door, brothers.“

“This is practical, normally we have to go out and hunt for one of those. Apparently the whole process switched to free postal service.“

“I can taste the tantalizing sweetness in their veins even from here. All shall envy our fortune, no other lord of the night will ever have access to such nectar.“

Three vampiric aristocrats were huddling together behind the velvet curtains, trying to get a discreet peek at the unexpected visitor that had rung the castle doorbell, disturbing their nocturnal activities. The boys had been on their best behaviour. Trust them.

Prior to this, Marquis Moon had been composing a new sonata, writing notes in expert penmanship before playing the piece beautifully, but no beloved was there to hear it. Viscount Sun had just been in the middle of painting a new masterpiece, creating wonders with each stroke of his brush, but he had found himself in need of a model to pose for him.

Grand Duke Eclipse's craftsmanship was unmatched when it came to jewellery, his combinations and designs of precious stones and metals resembling physical manifestations of poetry, yet no beauty had been available to wear them, no delicate fingers to offer home for his rings nor lovely neck he could adorn with gold and rubies.

How convenient of you to come and solve their problems, dear Y/N!

You stood at the door, umbrella in hand, calm, smiling, without a care in the world. Possibly wondering why it was taking so long for someone to come to the door. Truth be told, it was a pretty big castle, maybe the residents just needed time to get from one side to the other, you never know.

The three brothers eyed you through the window with hunger, lust and curiosity. It was quite cold outside and your cheeks were red. You were doe-eyed, delectable, theirs for the taking.

Moon's preternatural senses were sharper than those of his brothers, capable of detecting even the smallest of details when it came to analysing a living creature, perfectly appropriate skills for a hunter of his calibre. He could hear the stable rhythm of your heart, memorising it as if it were a beat of a musical piece, something he should use in composing. He could make a whole symphony with your heartbeat as inspiration for tempo, the flow of your sweet blood serving as inspiration for the flow of his music.

Moon spoke, his voice almost a raspy whisper:

“Most unusual, not a single trace of fear in them. Posture almost immaculate, joy and confidence in their bearing, almost as if they just entered an amusement park. Shall we give them a little scare? The steady cadence of their heart could use some excitement, every calm melody needs a good crescendo from time to time.“

Viscount Sun huffed, disagreeing:

“Fear adds such a bitter taste and ruins both the palate and the palette. Various emotions change the chemical components of the nectar of life, different combinations create different flavours, similarly how different colours form various new shades on the canvas. Just look what a soft little thing they are. Such a delicate disposition, definitely not made for this type of weather nor your sadistic chasing games, Moonie.“

“Do not spoil my fun, Sunny.“

“Why chase when you can entice?“

“That is a very interesting way of admitting that you are tragically bad at tracking prey.“

“If only you were as good at throwing compliments as you were with throwing insults, you wouldn't have to chase anyone in the first place.“

Eclipse held up a red beryl gem and gazed at it, as if silently asking a question. A green mist appeared within, whispering to him in a language only he could understand. He listened intently, maroon circles appearing in his golden eyes for a swift moment, before disappearing. All in due time.

Sun and Moon were still having their little argument and he decided it was time to put an end to it:

“Enough, we cannot keep them waiting out there forever. They will freeze before any of you gets a chance to do anything at all. We should warm them up.“

As you were waiting for someone to finally deign to answer the door, you took your time to admire the castle's exterior. You were very fond of such aesthetic and your inner scholar felt like a cat that had fallen into a whole basket of catnip.

Even in the dark of the night and heavy rain, it was fairly easy to discern that it was a place of splendour, its design a combination of Renaissance and Gothic architecture. There was a wide variety of turrets and towers, marvellous rose windows, loggias and galleries, facade ornaments containing statues of figures from Classical antiquity.

Nevertheless, Beauty always had an interesting tendency of holding hands with the Grotesque. Therefore, something lugubrious reigned in the air, a perpetual feeling of gloom, as if there were an echo of forgotten funeral bells, suspended between reality and imagination. Life and Death, Luxury and Decay, all of it intertwined in a shameless orgy of contradictory concepts.

October rain was a perfect proverbial cherry on top. Honestly, there was no better time of the year to make a little detour at such a place. It just didn't hit the same if one were to visit a sinister chateau in June.

The season of Autumn had arrived like an old friend, having just gotten out of its elegant carriage, clad in russet cloaks and vermillion capes, bringing gifts, ripe grapes and apples, calling for harvest and summoning everyone to bask in the final rays of golden sunlight before stern Winter shrouds the land with snow.

However, your particular journey had a few setbacks, forcing you to use all of your negotiation skills to get a local taxi driver to get you to the desired address.

The aforementioned driver was currently sitting in the parked car, keeping the engine running, waiting for your further instructions. He was looking at the building's imposing structure with an expression of visceral fear and the only thing holding him from simply driving away was the suspiciously large amount of cash you had given him to bring you there in the first place.

How lovely, all of our main characters were so trustworthy.

Other than your sudden presence, all had seemed to be perfectly peaceful in our dear castle, not a creature stirred. The bats were napping, the owls nesting, the spiders were wondering whether they should protect their web designs in the central intellectual property system. All was calm. Well, a few poor fellows in the dungeons may not have been having the best time of their lives, but you can't make everyone happy.

You had gotten yourself well-acquainted with the names and ranks of your targets. Pardon, “auditees“. Although, considering the nature of your visit, both terms could equally apply, the revenue and audit business was a cruel one. You had done extensive reading on the subject of their suspicious “economic activities“, along with all the macabre phenomena that had been connected to them. You should be feeling some sort of anxiety over the whole task, but honestly, you were rather giddy. You loved a challenge. What a wonderful way to spend the spooky season.

The heavy door opened in front of you. You looked upwards at the looming shadowy figure, a pair of golden eyes glowing in the penumbra, a deep husky voice greeting you:

“Do my eyes deceive me? A bright morning star is visiting us, is it dawn already? Welcome, welcome, bringer of light.“

“Good evening, sir. Please accept my sincere apologies for disturbing your household so late. You are the Grand Duke, I presume?“

“What a polite little thing you are. Indeed, you presume correctly. Now, why are you here in the middle of nowhere at such an ungodly hour? Lost your way?“

The vampire lord was looking at you as if you were the last scrumptious morsel on that side of the known universe, which could be interpreted as both flattering and unnerving.

Before you could answer, you noticed that two additional figures appeared at his side, a gaze of menacing crimson and one of ardent blue. You spoke, tone chirpy and cheerful:

“The Marquis and the Viscount! What an honour, I only heard the best about your artistic talents.“

“Oh, did you come all the way here for an autograph, dearest? Or perhaps a private performance?“

You smiled at them, tilting your head like a kitten that was trying to charm its owner into getting treats.

“May I come in? I will make it quick, I promise.“

The three of them gave each other a look, grinning as if thoroughly amused.

“Interesting, usually we are the ones asking such a question. Come in, come in! Do tell us, are you a tourist? We love tourists that desperately need assistance with directions. Adore them, very much so.“

“You love to help them?“

“Hm? Ah, yes, yes. Definitely love to help them.“

“Actually, I have been sent by the Revenue and Audit Bureau, I am here on official business. The usual, suspected tax fraud, unpaid utilities and so on. “

They definitely didn't expect that. Oh, no, no. Confusion reigned for a solid minute, before you casually presented your very legitimate credentials, letting them read. Sun was the first to break the silence with a slightly hysterical laugh. He reached to give you a little pat on the head.

“Are you now, my pretty? We still love making new friends, even when they come from financial institutions!“

“The taxi is waiting for me with my baggage still, so I won't take long and will just ask you a few preliminary questions. This visit was really just intended for me to announce that I would be conducting this procedure in the following days. I will be making a few additional visits during the week just for the sake of the inspection, then I shall be on my merry way with the report.“

“Nonsense! We cannot let you go back on the road in this weather. Besides, the local hotel is more terrifying than a graveyard at the witching hour. Do stay with us, we have plenty of comfortable chambers, we cannot let you fly away like a little comet in the night.“

“Oh, you are very generous, but that won't be necessary. Business aside, it is still a great pleasure to make your acquiantance.“

You extended your hand to them, expecting a firm and professional handshake. What could possibly go wrong there?

Everything.

Your eyes widened when the Grand Duke took your hand and kissed it, taking his sweet time. By the time he released it, your cheeks must have gone through several shades of red.

“The pleasure is all ours, morning star.“

As if that wasn't enough to make your heart skip a beat or ten, the Viscount and Marquis joined the fun, as well, each of them placing little kisses on your knuckles.

Alright, apparently neither side would be playing a fair game.

They knew exactly what they were doing. Their gestures and ministrations provided an excellent distraction, making you drop your mental defenses for a few precious seconds, enough for them to work their spell on you as you began to lose yourself in their eyes.

Several firm rules existed when it came to dealing with vampires and you just messed up the most crucial one: do not let yourself be mesmerized.

And yet.

Combine that with your natural curiosity and desire for knowledge, and there you have it, a freshly baked disaster, straight out of the oven.

Suppressing your fascination with the three of them had suddenly become a very difficult task. You had never seen such facial structures nor anatomy before. True, you had seen your fair share of weird things in your short little life, but you were still very much taken aback.

The three aristocrats possessed celestial features reminiscent of their heavenly namesakes, a perfect union of Beauty and the Grotesque, allowing such an appearance to be more alluring than simply awe-inspiring. The brothers were preternaturally handsome, of impressive height, wolfish grins always present, everything about them was perfectly tailored to entrap both willing and unwilling victims.

Sun's canines were discreet but still very sharp, appropriate for someone whose primary role was to lure and enchant. Moon's were far more prominent and intimidating, the rest of his teeth possessing a similar razor edge, fit for a predator meant to deliver efficient results. Eclipse's were the sharpest and most lethal, establishing his status of being the most formidable and terrifying member of the group.

Rich scents were lingering in the air around them, amber, vanilla, cardamom, rose oil, lovely, oh, so lovely.

It took you a solid several seconds to register the fact that you still had to use your words to speak, but the glow of their eyes was so magnificent, magnetic, such ethereal beauty, entire worlds were present in them, promising pleasures untold.

It was as if the concept of time had suddenly been shattered like a fairy tale mirror, seconds became centuries. How long had you been silent and simply standing there in pure adoration?

And yet, a certain part of you suddenly awakened, grasping the rest of your soul by the hand and pulling it out of the mindless haze, showing that it had power strong enough to escape the tendrils of darkness. You had a task, after all. Let's remain professional.

Unbeknownst to you, the brothers were somewhat shocked with your ability to get your mind back on track, even after direct exposure to the hypnotic power of all three of them. True, they had only been using a low level of their mind control magic, but it was still impressive, considering that most humans would simply choose to remain in the comforting embrace of oblivion. Why on earth would anyone choose to return to the cold fields of reality?

During all of that, your grip had slackened on the umbrella's handle and a suspiciously strong wind current blew it away right out of your hand before you even had time to realize what is going on, leaving you unprotected from the pouring rain.

By the time you had finally returned to your senses, you were partially soaked from the deluge and the wind was really not doing you any favours. You made a cute sneeze, followed by another.

“Pardon me. Now, as I was saying-“

Another adorable sneeze. You honestly hoped that this wouldn't make your reputation suffer one day.

Eclipse casually commented, smirking:

“You won't be able to last the drive to the hotel like that. Unless you are prepared to deal with potential pneumonia.“

Before you could protest, Sun eagerly trapped both your hands in his grasp, giving them a little squeeze and massaging them as if trying to warm you up. He didn't let go even when you tried to pull away.

“Goodness, darling comet, your hands are so cold. You will catch your death out there, we must insist that you stay here with us for the whole week. It is very cozy and comfy inside, we can build you a whole nest of blankets after a nice hot bath. Moonie, go get their things and give the good driver some extra compensation, will you?“

You blinked as Moon passed by with a speed that was certainly not normal by any means. You could have sworn that you felt the most tender of caresses along your cheek, a motion so swift that your eyes could barely catch it, but your nerves certainly did. It was difficult to supress a shudder.

Enthusiastic and almost mad with glee, Moon got all of your things from the car, hastily throwing a bag full of jewels in the taxi driver's face as additional payment, ignoring the man's muffled yelp, before dashing right back at the door, carrying your baggage as if it weighed nothing.

A few moments later the only thing that was heard was the rain falling and the sound of the car tires shrieking as it drove off, leaving you alone with your eager and enamoured hosts.

You made a little squeak of surprise as you were suddenly pulled inside, the door closing and making a dramatic echo in the stormy night.

A few words were in order regarding the noble residence. The whole castle served both as a comfortable home and as a convenient trap for newcomers. It was true that the classical process of hunting provided a wonderful thrill, a tingle so exquisite that nothing could compare. Chasing and tracking chosen prey, what a delight, sensing the beating heart, the warmth of blood, bliss beyond description. However, there were times when it seemed appropriate to play a more elegant game, inviting and letting the victims enter the web willingly.

Therefore, our handsome vampire lords had a habit of organizing ostentatious dance parties, having a very strict dress code where all the guests had to dress in accordance with the fashion of the late 18th century. A grand feast would be prepared, fireworks, concerts, luxuries that would place kings to shame, a decadent display of wealth and desire. The celestial vampires would then proceed to charm and seduce their victims, one by one, all of them giving themselves, mind, body and soul.

If all went well, and usually it did, the experience could be pleasurable for all those involved. One drinking from the neck, the other two relishing the sweetness on the pulsating wrist arteries. If things were a bit more amorous, all of them would nibble and drink the precious blood from the inner thigh area.

Sharing was caring, after all.

There was something beautifully intimate about the whole process. Drinking life. Hungry licks and bites, gestures of both a lover and a murderer. For an enemy, tearing out the heart and drinking from the source seemed like a worthy way of evening an old score, but for allies it would always be a pleasant little bite and a quick drink, leaving the victim alive and well.

They harboured a heightened appreciation of the human body. Flesh was aesthetically pleasing, beautiful, pulsing with life, warmth, all those wonderful things that were ready to be stolen. Blood illuminated by moonlight, blood illuminated by early rays of dawn. Art, it was pure art.

Furthermore, the brothers had additional powers conveniently associated with their artistic skills. Temporary enthrallment was a wonderful tool, but they created their own ways of ensuring a more permanent bond with those they allowed to live, assuring that no matter where they run, they could always be called upon and summoned like obedient pets.

Sun would sometimes use some of the precious blood as an additional pigment ingredient for his paintings, no different from Moon at times combining it with ink to write musical notes as he composed. It served as a type entrapment of the person's mind, having a part of them forever bound to them, their soul captured in their art, their music.

If Moon were to play a piece written with the blood of one person, they would immediately succumb to the pull, making haste to heed their master's call no matter what. Similarly, if Sun were to paint with that specific colour containing the blood pigment, he could make the person do whatever the picture was showing in that current moment.

Eclipse's ability was the most potent, he was capable of trapping the entire soul of a person in jewels, ensuring absolute control over their mind and heart whenever he wished. In death they would remain his prisoners, their spirits and energy his to use as he pleased.

Such magic was terrifying even in the world of vampires and therefore a majority of them had acknowledged the celestial brothers as royalty among immortals.

Now, let us return to your fun little predicament with those very sane individuals that certainly only had your best interests at heart.

Moon made haste to bolt the doors as soon as you were inside, of course. Sun's giggle was slightly maniacal as he winked at you.

“Security reasons, my pretty. You never know what beasts are lurking out there, dangerous times we live in.“

You pouted, removing your soaked coat and trying to get your hair to somewhat dry by combing your fingers through it.

“Oh, yes, that is quite true that one can never be too careful, my dear sir. In fact, I think I saw a few life insurance agents on my way here. Truly frightening creatures, the lot of them, wouldn't recommend meeting them in a dark alley under any circumstance whatsoever.“

Moon's voice was close once more, it seemed almost as if he moved as swiftly as a shadow, one could miss him within a single blink.

“There could be some other monsters wandering around, shining comet.“

“Such as?“

“Do you happen to know which creature of the Night feeds on the essence of the living, stalking and doing all it can to attract prey?“

“The HR department?“

Ignoring his confusion, your focus shifted to the grandeur of the interior. They weren't lying, it was undoubtedly cozy and wonderful to behold. Comforting heat was coming from the fireplace. Thick carpets with elaborate patterns were present all over the hardwood flooring. Walls were decorated with intricate tapestries and paintings, golden sconces, cabinets containing Venetian glass and crystal figurines, not a single surface was left bare. Vaulted ceilings, frescoes painted in each available bit of space, creating a wonderful effect that only a mad artist could concoct in a fever dream of divine inspiration.

Which is probably what had happened, considering Sun's habits.

However, elements of the supernatural and macabre continued to linger. Some paintings had eyes that seemed a bit too alive, while others would become more and more disturbing the longer you looked at them. Statues appeared to be capable of changing their pose at a whim and it was easy to miss the motion itself within a mere blink. Shadows cast from the fireplace were not following any law of physics, undulating and writhing on the floor as they please, sometimes creating monstrous shapes.

Marvellous. Beyond description, fascinating. Had it not been for your task, you would have gladly spent a whole eternity studying the components and properties of the whole structure.

You were brought back to reality when you realized that you were still very much shivering and that you really needed to get your hair properly dried.

You gasped as you suddenly felt Eclipse wrap his cloak around you from behind, pulling you closer to his form, his strong arms wrapping around your waist. Goodness gracious, was that a secret additional pair of arms he had?

“Sir!“

“There was no time to fetch you a blanket, consider this an urgent alternative.“

“Don't you think this is a bit of a compromising position?“

“Preposterous, that must be the feverish delirium talking. This cruel weather is detrimental for soft flowers such as yourself.“

“I suppose by this logic it must the delirium that is squeezing my hips right now?“

He purred in your ear:

“Relax, morning star, you need warmth, we cannot allow you to get ill under our care.“

“I think I am very warm now, though.“

“Hush, be still, let us take care of you.“

Viscount Sun made sure to get your attention once more.

“You know, sweetness, many have pursued us for various reasons, but tax evasion was never one of them. This is going to be a fun new experience for all of us.“

It was perfectly within your right to struggle and act indignant in order to free yourself, but you were aware that you had to be diplomatic and collected for the moment. Antagonizing your hosts would yield no results and would certainly make your job far more difficult than it needed to be.

You had to remain professional, it was a task like any other. Yes, your hosts were not really the best examples of sanity nor did they seem to be aware of the concept of personal space, but you couldn't let that distract you from your duties. Someone had to be mature in the whole situation, after all. You cleared your throat, trying to appear as dignified as possible in your current position.

Adjusting a bit, ignoring the fact that you were still being held tightly by four arms, you managed to reach for your pocket to get a little notepad and a pencil. It was a rather comical scene to behold, since you had limited options and an even more limited space to maneuver in, but by some miracle you were able to make a few scribbles on the paper. Such an action required the same skill level one usually achieves when trying to get work done with one cat asleep on their computer and five additional cats on their lap and head.

Sun was very much offended with you playing with the paper and pencil instead of letting him warm your hands. You spoke:

“Alright, I will need some basic information for now, such as source of income, registered businesses, unregistered activities that may go under the radar of the government. You do realize that there is an unusually large cemetery on the way here that is not even on the map?“

“I can answer all of those for you. Accumulated heirloom. Pleasure is our only business and business is doing well! As for the final one, well, it is such a tragedy how incompetent cartographers are these days, my dear.“

“Regardless, I still have to conduct a thorough investigation and write a report, it is a formal requirement. Also, it will be necessary that I take a tour around the place simply to inspect the installations. Since none of the utilities are being paid for either, I must see whether you have self-sufficient power sources.“

“Now, now, you can't explore all on your own, that would be against our rules. And you don't want to be a little rulebreaker. You cannot enter certain rooms or parts of the castle without our permission.“

“Understandable. You three can guide me during my stay, then.“

“Moreover, communication with the outside world is highly discouraged. So discouraged, that it is forbidden, actually.“

“May I ask why?“

“You may! We won't answer, but you definitely may ask regardless, your voice is so pleasant to listen to. Do you sing?“

“I am still processing the “no communication with the outside world with no explanation whatsoever as to why“ part, give me a moment. I think I need ibuprofen.“

“Oh, we do have that!“

Soft cloth suddenly fell on your head and you realized it was a towel. You slowly looked upwards, finding yourself face to face with Moon who was now shamelessly hanging upside down from a cord, crimson eyes as menacing as ever and grin impossibly wide.

You spoke, unsure how to even react properly:

“What on earth are you doing?“

“I was feeling excluded. And you needed something to get your hair dry.“

“How did you even get up there? You were at the door barely a few seconds ago.“

“In a very clandestine and stealthy manner, as is currently being demonstrated. Impressed?“

“Fine, yes. Happy?“

Moon giggled like a wicked imp, relishing the situation. Teasing you was slowly becoming his new favourite activity.

“Are you good at playing hide and seek, my everlasting aurora?“

To his surprise, you actually did ponder the answer to his question for a few moments. Finally, you smiled at him:

“The classical game has a predictable pattern, so I actually did invent my own twist once. I would count, the other person would hide, and then I would simply proceed to steal cookies from the kitchen without anyone knowing. Really practical. Free sweets, nobody knows who the culprit is, perfect cost-benefit analysis.“

Oh, he loved that. Moon definitely appreciated some good old-fashioned mischief and he felt an even greater desire to discover what made you tick. He reached with his hand, tracing along your jawline with his claws, before pressing the palm of his hand to your cheek, his wicked eyes never leaving yours.

“Naughty, naughty. You must be punished.“

“Retroactively?“

“With interest.“

“Good luck with calculating all of that. If you start early, you should be done by the next decade, give or take a year or two.“

Moon's mind was already imagining all sorts of scenarios that he had every intention of bringing into reality.

What a delight it would be to have you, play with you, chase you, catch you, taste you, forever and ever. Your blood was tormenting him, you were the golden apple stolen from a magical garden, ripe and delicious. He did not care how many pomegranate seeds it would take to ensnare you and chain you to his world.

One had to admire the dedication, at least.

He was familiar with that sly streak. Finally, a kindred spirit. You had something guileful within you, as if a joyful scherzo were constantly playing in your soul, lively and vivid, truly akin to an ethereal aurora borealis in the night sky, teasing mortals with its unreachable beauty.

Needless to say that Sun was simply not having this and he had to ruin the moment by intervening in the most mature way possible: by taking your pencil away.

“What is this I see? A hawthorn pencil? Quite sharp, I see. No, no, we can't have such a vile thing as hawthorn wood here, absolutely not, in the trash it goes where it belongs.“

You had every intention of arguing with him, but you were once again distracted with the fact that Eclipse was now diligently getting your hair dried with the towel as if you were a kitten they had found outside or something. Goodybe reputation, it was nice knowing you, write a postcard.

“I must say, nobody ever insulted my pencils before.“

Sun went over to the nearby desk, fiddling with some parchment until he found what he was looking for, returning with a triumphant grin on his face and a quill feather in his hand.

“You shall write with one of these.“

“I don't even know how to write with ink without making a mess.“

“Come now, I am sure you are a fast learner.“

You shuddered as he teasingly slid the feather along your cheek and neck.

“Oh, stop.“

We were all familiar with the saying about everything being about the journey and not the destination itself. Perhaps you could allow yourself some enjoyment in the whole affair. In all technicality, you did manage to get in the castle, so it was going well for now. Moon summoned a few ghostly servants to command them to get a comfy chamber prepared for you, as well as some dinner. You were rather tired and hungry, after all.

Eclipse gave your shoulder a little squeeze to get your attention.

“Now, morning star, since you are already here, could I interest you in some pretty necklaces you may like?“

You pondered his offer for a few moments, before shrugging, letting yourself relax.

“You know what? Sure.“

(continuation also on AO3)

[rokso-o]

AND guess what’s also back? me. specifically, me SIMPING. HIM !!!!!!! the vibe is simply IMMACULATE. the colour scheme???? the blood on the walls???? his stance????? his facial expressions??????? his untied bow tie ???????? his unbuttoned shirt ????? SLUTTY WAIST?????? HIS POSE?????? THE WAY HE WAS SITTING?????????????????

and we also had our shining shimmering crown prince from today’s update

also.... I GOT VICROSS CRUMBS...... babe it’s not even a properly drawn one but do i appreciate it? YEA..... did i get a little heart skip??? MAYBE SO! (HE CAME HOMEEEEEEE)

[altarfates]

Reality is unsympathetic to Lu Guang’s plight for the man before him is rendered now in terrible clarity, in the dream his countenance remains nondescript, a churning sequence of lurid colour, now, his expression is abhorrent. It is the calm he loathes the most, the patience that seems to be drawn taut across his elegant features, it won’t last, he can all but sense the ways it will inevitably fracture. It’s because he has witnessed this before, hundreds of time-lines unravelling at the tips of his impudent fingers, the unspooling thread inextricably woven around lives he had not intended to change. That did not matter, the consequences of his own arrogance aren’t bothered by how benevolent Lu Guang may have considered himself. Not that he did, he had long since lost the ability to see this as anything but a tribulation, inevitability becoming the thing he was running towards and from all at once. Vein is an incarnation of that punitive judgement, staring him down with the intensity of a raging fire.  He is not given an alternative here, his hands are effectively bound and his back forced straight against the rigid wooden back of what he surmises is a seat. Instinct compels him to avert his gaze, to writhe frantically in the snare that has been set for him but Lu Guang has taught himself how to pretend to be unaffected, even if it was not always persuasive. For it was not his life he was considering right now, not as those lethal fingers dab graciously at his slick forehead, nor as the other rests his elbow atop his knee, creasing his immaculately kept trousers. Cheng Xiaoshi’s name reiterates itself over and over in his mind, Lu Guang cannot feel him currently and the absence of his presence sinks into his veins as ice-cold dread. If he acted irrationally, diverted from the intended path that would lead to their future, he could not account for his safety even if he did survive. He has to be smart, even as his heart shrieks in protest, his fingers clenching against his restraints, memorizing the steady, dependable cadence of pain that bloomed from that durable rope embedding itself in his skin.  It is then that Vein relinquishes his hold on that clemency, the cloth discarded in favour for a sleek, silver gun. Lu Guang can taste death on his tongue, a viscous lathering of trepidation that accompanies the erratic beat of his heart. Breathe, he reminds himself, steadying it because he was jostled free of the dream and into something worse. Here, he could not run from his enemy, with the barrel of the gun flush to his chin, effectively tilting his head back, he was entirely at Vein’s mercy. Don’t be rash — it felt like a conversation he would have had with Cheng Xiaoshi before a dive. Don’t do anything you’re going to regret. @rhaazt’s voice cleaves open that palpable silence, addressing him as if he were an inconvenience and perhaps, in the grand scheme of things, he was nothing but an incessant thorn in the other’s side. Lu Guang cannot say he knows for certain what the others machinations consist of but having witnessed Cheng Xiaoshi’s death by his hands he knows he cannot trust his forbearance to be lasting. ❝ I’ll answer your questions.❞  He swallows thickly, the gun’s cool barrel encouraging him to remain docile, any futile squirming could result in a bullet entering and exiting through his skull. It would be a quick death, a compassionate gesture from the man Lu Guang insistently evaded. Now, there’s nowhere left for him to run, cornered with his wrists fettered, the stormy grey of his eyes still possessing the audacity to remain defiant. Because he had something to survive for, not something as tangible as a strategy or as efficacious as a means of escape, but a desperate exigency to see Cheng Xiaoshi’s face again, alive, alive, alive.

He musters equanimity, even as he can envision his own death, even as he meets the other’s gaze and holds it, his breathing was even now, his mind unimpeded by the dregs of fear that had lingered in the wake of that nightmare. ❝  And give you what you want.❞ it’s reluctant but Lu Guang doesn’t let that prevent him, even as his teeth ache to clamp down on his tongue until he tastes acrid blood. He had to live — without him Cheng Xiaoshi’s future was no longer guaranteed and he could not allow that to happen, not now, not ever. 

[themonotonysyndrome]

Wajid Headcanons

(Random assorted headcanons for future fics and infos to flesh him out as a character. Sure the title of 'Dominating Boss' is sexy but c'mon, there's more to this man than his immaculate wardrobe!)

Of Arabic descent hence the name. His family is one of the few that can trace their lineage back to Pre-Cataclysm.

Speaking of which, his surname is 'Al-Basir (البصير): The Perceptive. Fitting since his family is a bunch of vicious opportunists who would do anything to improve their station and status. Even marrying their son into a noble family.

But upon marrying, he takes on Shula's surname as per one of the requests from his father-in-law. The golden plaque on his office desk is written: 'Wajid Sinclar, CEO of Modas'.

As a CEO, it's not enough to be able to keep up with him. No, you must be on his wavelength for he demands nothing but maximum efficiency if you're working with him.

Holds himself to a high standard when it comes to his work and unfortunately, he throws that same standard to his employees as well. This makes him both an excellent and poor CEO.

He doesn't mix business with morality. He sees the latter as something that will hold him back from making difficult decisions or reaping questionable rewards.

Control is everything to him as it brings a semblance of comfort and security. Whatever plans he makes must follow exactly how he wants it or his temper starts showing.

Can't stand romance movies or books. He finds them fanciful and a waste of time.

He is the eldest and has two little sisters who are arranged to be married into good prospects and wealth just like him.

While he doesn't see eye to eye with his parents, he's close to his sisters. They often call each other or send letters.

His favourite colour is actually yellow but for the sake of maintaining his appearance as an untouchable boss, his wardrobe mainly consists of the colours white, black, brown and grey.

He meets every requirement to appear on the runway but prefers to control the show from behind the scenes.

He does boxing every Thursday night and his workout regiment is pretty all-rounded. While he's not as muscular as Castin or Warren, he has a pretty toned body.

His hobbies are boxing and high-stake poker where money won't be on the table. No, instead, it's favours for he only plays against influential people that could benefit him and Modas. Best believe that he will cheat just to add more thrill.

Used to be a part-time chef whenever his sisters are on their period because they tend to be picky and would ask him for all sorts of dishes.

Just like Castin, he has a habit of falling into tunnel vision whenever he gives his all to a project. His scheme with the VP is a ticking time bomb that he just isn't aware of. He's also ignorant of how his constant hovering around you looks to other people.

Prefers wine rather than whisky.

Takes his coffee black with no cream or sugar. Because of course, he does.

His ideal Saturday evening is sketching away couture designs in his office with music playing in the background with a glass of his favourite wine.

Collects rare watches as trophies as every piece symbolises a personal milestone in his life. He recently bought himself a new one though he would never admit that it's a celebratory piece for having you as his partner-in-crime.

Hates dealing with paparazzi but he's damn good at playing them for a fool. He'll put on an award-winning smile and charm them with what they want to hear but his words are nothing more than misdirections or empty gossips. Nothing concrete about Modas or his personal life.

In total, he has five safe houses that he personally designed with a team of architects. The one where you're staying is his pride and joy.

He's not a good horse rider and would prefer to have a chauffeur around to transport him.

At first, he thinks that the Baroness and Castin's arranged marriage and how happy they are is nothing more than a PR stunt. After meeting them, he starts to resent his own arranged marriage with Shula and hates how his parents used him as if he's no better than the livestock that was bartered.

Good at sewing. He often patched up his sisters' plushies back when they were kids.

He stopped wearing his wedding band when Shula lost hers and she replaced it with a bigger, shinier diamond that she made him buy for her.

Unlike Shula who is a well-known socialite and can always be seen attending some kind of high society party, he is an introvert who would rather spend his rare free time resting at home (if Shula isn't around) or take his dogs on a walk.

In a Modern AU, he would be driving an Audi. Powerful, requires steering precision, and it's petroleum-fueled because he's a busy man and he needs to refill his car quickly.

His favourite food is lamb mandi.

He can't stand any raw food so sushi and tartare? Immediately loses his appetite. If there's a raw octopus on the table with its tentacles still wiggling? He would quickly excuse himself, lol.

Has a pair of large, black, purebred Dobermans he keeps as pets and serves as guard dogs. Their names are Zahir and Zehn. He personally trained and disciplined them and each proudly wears an expensive collar. He's that kind of pet owner, yes.

In private, he listens to dark jazz. Expect something slow and sensual to play in the background as he unwinds after a long day of work and lavishs his dogs with toys and attention.

(Random assorted headcanons that focus on Wajid as the Male Lead of his series, as well as his relationship with his Listener, VP.) (Be warned, some are 18+)

He is dominating in every way. He would have you walk in front of him so he can gently rest his palm behind your back to ensure that no one is gonna accidentally trip you from behind. He will hold the mirror up for you if you need to fix your lipstick. He will grab your hand if you're going to the wrong meeting room. Hell, he will grab your chin and make you accept his praise if you dare to say that your makeup isn't perfect.

Has a low sexual libido but when he's in the mood, he can go for more than five rounds. He only slept with Shula once and the stress gained from his position as CEO dimmed his sexual appetite. Until you came into his life, of course.

He will always open the carriage order for you if the coachman doesn't. He also expects you to take his hand as he helps you descend.

He's frightfully attentive. Forget about having secrets because he will pry it from you one way or another. He makes it his personal business to always know where you are, who you are with, what you ate, your medical history, and your likes and dislikes. He would keep this information to himself and surprise you with what you need before you even realise it.

While not full-on into BDSM, his kinks lean on the heavier aside. Ropes, handcuffs, blindfolds and dominating plays are what he prefers.

Posessive to hell and back. What’s his is his. He doesn’t share, doesn’t tolerate rivals, and expects absolute loyalty. Funny enough, he fears becoming too attached—because love makes him vulnerable, and vulnerability can be exploited. It also doesn't help that he can't control you.

He's also fiercely protective. If it's up to him, he would shield you from the world. Will not hesitate to destroy those who threaten his VP.

Can be jealous whenever you so much as talk to someone he doesn't know. By the way, his jealousy doesn't just target the opposite sex. He's aware that women are a threat as well.

Although he craves control, a part of him enjoys it whenever you defy him or shout in his face. He likes it whenever you push his button, testing his patience, knowing full well that it gives him the right to punish you.

We know that he likes VP on her knees and her hair down but he also likes it if you do so in a tight pencil skirt.

While he has trouble showing his vulnerable side, his actions speak louder than words. He's intensely devoted and will shower you with lavish and secret gifts.

He likes flaunting his wealth and power by treating you like the only girl in the world.

Has a habit of watching you through reflections, in shadows and stolen moments. He would memorise every detail about you - expressions, habits and postures. So much so that whenever he sketches a design, your image will be his model.

Not the kind to whisper sweet nothings into your ear but he will steal you away to some private island without warning. You would wear custom couture that he personally designed and tailored while he attends to your every need, in or out of the bedroom.

Obsessed with your scent. Any perfume you would wear would immediately be imprinted in his mind and he would instinctively seek them out whenever you pass by.

He's a service top and god help you if you're spiteful and refuse to cum when his head is in between your legs.

Obsessed with hearing you scream his name while your hands are pinned down in bed. He likes hearing you say it like a prayer.

He'll leave you hickeys for days and he'll make sure it'll be on the most visible parts of your body that makeup can't hide. Though he likes biting your ears and lavishing his tongue on them to soothe any pain.

King of dirty talks. His voice can go low and dark as he whispers in your ear, offering you filthy promises and compliments if you can be a good girl for Daddy.

Likes it when you ride him and he would make sure you're looking at him in the eyes as you chase your orgasm.

Punishment varies from him silently watching you getting fucked by one of those sex machines or vibrators (with him holding the remote) or edging you until you're a sobbing mess. It depends on just how badly you disobeyed him.

He would always make sure you slept first so he could hold you in his arms and stroke your hair which he loves so much. Best believe you're not getting out of his embrace anytime soon. He will pull back into the bed if you somehow manage to wiggle free.

Aftercare is silent but worshipful. He will gently clean you up, make sure you're hydrated and offer you some light snacks or meals to replenish your energy. He would also massage you to loosen any sore wrists or ankles. If you don't want to talk that's fine. At least let him be your servant for the night.

He's a neat freak but if he doesn't see your personal belongings messing up his place then he'll be annoyed. In fact, he'll annoy you because he likes seeing traces of you and your warmth around the house.

He'll be so smug if you colour-coordinate your outfits to match him, even if it's unintentional on your part. Every praise that highlights how well you two work together as a team will inflate his ego.

This man will slip out a few 'habibti' in bed when he's truly lost in your pussy.

Despite his sharp words, he relishes taking care of you. He will scold you for your lack of self-care while he washes your hair, moisturises your body, clips your nails, makes sure you will always have clothes with your preferred texture, fingers you 'till you cum at least twice orders for his dogs to keep you company while he cooks you a full meal.

[zoieru]

OK NOW I MUST KNOW YOUR FAVORITE SKINLINES IN LEAGUE 🎤 🎤

OKAY FOR STARTERS YOU CANT JUST SAY THIS AND THEN NOT DO IT WHAT AM I BEING CUCKED NOW?d?d~@{@£${}${@£~~£!

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

bro i would commit so many acts on this man it is unreal lol

and yeah i picked hk yone bec is favourite splash and omg no way the kaiser thing sdjdsjksdjk so funny. he would delete fr. pats kaiser on the head. is okai bb.

okay uhm well oftentimes i like individual skins from skinlines a lot but not some others? i suppose thats expected.

going through the list i like arcana quite a bit because of tthe colour schemes n the gold sorta trims it itches somethin in me

MY FAVE EVER IS BEES AAAAAAA

i actually designed a beelio (milio) skin a while back > < never completely finished it with rendering but i liked it heh

then i like coven because well... women. vibes immaculate.

and then there's just like... the ones where i like the aesthetics a bunch and individual ones but they arent my faves so much. i like winterblessed, the lunar revel ones too sometimes, spirit blossom is cool obvs, inkshadow a lil? (yone guhh) ooo fright night is awesome too actually. nightshadow> also those dragon yasuo ones > <

what about YOU 🎤🎤🎤

[adriwatchestoku]

Geats ep 9 (and 10)

@tanukitsuneko-suki

"when your game master doesn't know what's happening either that's when you should get worried"

Oh the ACTUAL game master

Oh this is what the Ascians get up to when they're not fucking with the wol

"you gotta select your starter pokemon"

okay but ace what did you do to make tsurumi point a gun at you? I mean, this time

yomi and I both appreciate the cat pose from neon

"these things should hatch fine on hteir own" you should still protect them ffs

"ace is like "my child, we are going to kill.""

these secret missions are just. so weird sometimes

michi plz

I feel like this is 100% a "if you use these as a team" issue but these assholes working together is just…

Michinaga's cheekbones jfc

oh that's a height difference

Neon…

Michinaga having a hallucination over here because yeah. YEAH. His mental health is in the gutter

I like this insinuation that Ace, someone played by a Japanese man, is from ancient Rome

I do appreciate that Michi and Neon have started to get along

"well yeah now he has two weapons rewarding blindly charging through an enemy" "proto-Hanto"

yeah this is definitely a "work together you assholes"

i love that revolving mechanic for their suits.

something about the track that's playing reminds me of a Parasite Eve track

Okay not as much now that the egg hatched but at first

oh goddamn it Ace. Just be honest and say "thank you" for real

I wonder if ffxiv would have happened if the ascians had the DGP

Ah.

ep10

oh shit I just saw the date this episode played on and I just heard "The Final Countdown" in my head

not too many episodes until Takahashi Yuya's Bag of Threats

"yeah I was interested in what happens in episode 15, and confused why episode 15… then I remembered Ex-Aid and Christmas and went aw fuck"

ACE PLEASE

OH GOD ACE PLEASE

Her reaction's even more understandable

Yomi just said something that's making me cackle and I need to transcribe it

"Any time they allude to Ace's wish making process at all, I am more convinced Ace went 'I wish for as many wishes as possible' frame one."

Tsumuri's face oh my god

"she's just so unimpressed"

that is the face of someone who has known Ace for more then five seconds and is made into family

"I'm going to scout out locals until I can find someone to take you out. This is personal now"

"is this an information gathering move?" "yeah probably"

"THAT'S BASICALLY THE SAME THING FOR WISHING FOR INFINTE WISHES FRAME ONE"

Ace my dude flirting frame one

The vibes of this scene are immaculate

"ace knowing he has one chance before he touches the thing and gets punched out frame one"

I keep having to pause to laugh oh god Yomi is on point today

ACE

"this show might be good"

Keiwa…

his name is literally "win"

Michi starting to learn why doing this over again sucks

And learning to care at least a little about others (mildly, it was mostly to get zombie back)

First henshins are so cute

"come on Michinaga, you have killing intent for at least three people"

"I don't think you're going to have a lot of crowd participation, I'm sorry"

oh you're staff, win

tsumuri's like "HI. NEON. HELP."

"he has a lot of killing intent but he can't be in multiple places at once"

this is a sick outfit and we both like teh colour scheme

alright then, neon, bard buff

oh yeah there is definitely something wrong with neon

"man that's like a pretty deep question"