#Center Stage Gallery

[sueclancy]

Ducks in a row

This painting that I began in my last post was inspired by one of my nephews who teased me, gently, about saying so often during our family domino games that I “need a minute to get my ducks in a row”. Apparantly I tend to focus on our family conversations during our games rather than on my dominos and which I’m going to play next – which amuses our nephew. So this last week I worked on… …and…

[soong-type-princess]

VSCO - rachelmackinnonn

[heartsleevemag]

GALLERY: Carlie Hanson

by Vi McDonald

Touring her new album, Wisconsin, Carlie Hanson delivered a heartfelt show at Center Stage Vinyl in Atlanta, GA, last Monday night. Getting up close and personal with the audience to deliver some of her discography’s best songs, Carlie rocked out and left fans raving about her performance afterwards.

If there’s one thing Carlie Hanson can do, it’s choose fantastic openers. The first act to perform was the empowering Brianna Musco and, decked out in iridescent colors, she delivered earnest songs that got the crowd dancing. She wasn’t afraid to be interactive, sharing the story behind some of the tracks. “This was my coming out song,” she shared before performing the energetic “Paradise,” telling the audience that her set was a safe space to be our authentic selves.

Senses was next to perform. The set was electric, their stage presence impossible to ignore. After getting the crowd warmed up with an original and then a cover of Fall Out Boy’s “Sugar, We’re Goin Down,” they continued to deliver banger after banger. With heavy guitar and drums and fearless, ambitious vocals that called to mind great rock vocalists like Hayley Williams, Senses had the entire audience enraptured.

After a short break, fan-favorite Sophie Powers appeared, delivering a lively set full of anti-boy breakup anthems. “Sorry boys, but a girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do!” she announced before launching into one of the tracks. Everyone knew the words to Sophie’s songs, which fueled her as she bounced energetically around the stage, getting the crowd warmed up.

When Carlie finally took the stage, the audience was ecstatic. She performed songs from her entire discography, both her new album Wisconsin and her 2022 debut Tough Boy, as well as a few singles. It’s difficult to pick a favorite from the set, but the audience went particularly wild for “Daze Inn” and “Hazel,” two of Carlie’s older songs and undeniable hits. A standout point in the show was the very personal acoustic performance of “Stealing All My Friends,” and for the outro Carlie’s band joined in to make the live version even more impactful.

If you'd like to get the Carlie Hanson experience, listen to Wisconsin wherever you stream music, and be sure to check out our gallery below!

[themuse-if]

DEMO (TBA) | Cast Profiles | Cast Interviews-Round 1 | Cast Interviews-Round 2 | The Muse: Spotify

The Muse is a 18+ slice of life interactive fiction novel set at NYU focusing mostly on the art departments in the Steinhardt and Tisch schools. Inspired by my love for shows and movies like Felicity, Fame (the show), Skins UK, and Center Stage. This will not be an accurate depiction of school life at NYU, I'll be taking lots of creative liberties.

Content Warnings: explicit language, sexual themes, substance use, violence, mention of SA

You come from a family of artists and art lovers. Your mother is a passionate curator for a small gallery in the city and your father is a sculptor and painter with a very dedicated cult following. They met when they were just starting out and have built a lovely life for themselves and their two children, you and your older brother Cameron.

Your parents have always been super supportive of you and your brother’s dreams and ambitions. They were a great source of encouragement and guidance for your brother on his path to discovering his goal to become a game designer and you on your path to become whatever you choose.

Growing up surrounded by such creativity just so happened to inspired you to want to create something of your own.

Now that you’ve graduated high school it’s time for you to head off to university! You’ve decided to leave the mid sized city that you call your hometown, and go to the big city NYC! You’ll be attending NYU more specifically, but you won’t be making this move alone you’ll be attending with your best friend Maxine!

What will you discover in your university life?

Will you solely focus on schoolwork or wind up in the raging party scene?

Will you explore new creative endeavors or solely focus on honing your craft?

With so much going on will you even have the time to possibly find your muse, or maybe even become someone else’s?

Design your mc from clothing style to physical appearance to pronouns, gender identity, name, looks, and more.

Choose 1 of 6 majors that grant you different classes with new students and professors: (Studio Arts, Dance, Drama, Photography and Imaging, Songwriting, Recorded Music)

Curate your MCs personality and how they react to all the drama and excitement university life has to offer. Style your MC’s dorm room and their aesthetic style.

Navigate the cliques and scenes to figure out where your MC fits in. Maybe you're a social butterfly and you just float from one social group to another!

Engage in a romance with 1 of 10 characters. 5 female/male gender selectable and 5 gender set characters. And 2 poly routes one with The Rebel Rejects and one with The Exes (Faye and Karla).

Choose one of three part time jobs to give you a little extra spending money for things like spring break and birthday gifts for your new friends.

Follow The Muse through your MC’s freshman and sophomore years. Junior and senior year will come much later in Book Two of The Muse. The third and final book in The Muse series will cover the start of MC's new life after graduation.

Roxanne/Robbie Sawyer: (f/m) The lead singer and guitarist of The Rebel Rejects. Ro is everything you would want in a lead singer cool, charismatic, and super talented. Don’t let their dazzling aura intimidate you though because though they may have a raging wild side they can also be extremely down to earth.

Joleen/Johnny Nielsen: (f/m) The drummer of The Rebel Rejects. Jo is the oddball of the band with a sunny exterior and twisted flower child past. They may be a sweet boho bimbo with a heart of gold, but there’s a lot more that lies behind those blue green eyes.

Delphine/Desmond Hartley: (f/m) The bassist for The Rebel Rejects. De is the super glue propelling the group forward. With high expectations from their parents, and dreams that soar even higher, success is the only option.

Rina/Ren Fukushi: (f/m) R is the best ballet dancer in this incoming freshman class, and no one would ever think to say otherwise. They’re cold and closed off, if it isn’t about ballet then they don’t want to hear it.

Everly/Everett Thompson: (f/m) Eve is a triple threat. Singing, dancing, acting they can do it all. They hope to complete their EGOT before they turn 40.

Karla Reyes: (she/her) Karla is a sophomore at NYU studying Studio Arts. Her favorite medium is watercolor on canvas. She dabbled with sculpting and ceramics...until she broke up with her ex, Faye, and can’t stand to be in the same studio with them.

Faye Winters: (she/they) Faye is every bit the ethereal being they seem to be, and just as flighty. She is a sophomore majoring in dance with a minor in studio arts. She has this effortless charm and beauty that extends to her art whether its her dancing or her sculptures.

Sebastien Auclair: (he/him) Sebastien is in his third year of university, he’s an exchange student from the Paris College of Art. He is studying photography and imaging. Sebastian loves Paris, but he is excited for this change of scenery.

Maxine Matthews: (she/her)Max is your best friend in the world! Your parents are friends so you were destined to best pals since birth, thank god you actually like each other or all those shared family functions would have been really awkward. Max is funny and always has great commentary for every show or movie that you watch together. Which is why you weren’t surprised when they decided to major in dramatic writing. Some people think that you’re too close. They wonder how is it possible that you could be just friends.

Silas Walker: (he/him) Silas is your RA. As your Resident Advisor he's super helpful and friendly. You have a question about the best study spots, bad professors, how to use the subway, well he's got answers. He keeps all his advisees at arms length because everyone knows RAs can't canoodle with their advisees. And that just makes it all the more enticing.

[krysfatale]

Children's camp "Aloha"🐟

The children's camp is located by the sea in Sulani. This camp has three main buildings, a dining hall, a stage, a basketball court and an open air movie theater. In the main building there is a medical center, laundry and a common room for the children where they can draw, play games or organize a puppet show, but I gave the whole second floor to the counselors, they have a large common room, an administrative room where they solve various problems and a bathroom. The girls' and boys' buildings are separate and have their own large bathrooms. The heart of the camp is the stage, where discos, first loves and disappointments take place in the evenings. Dining room with a small kitchen where the counselors prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner for the camp. There is a place for volleyball and a basketball court, and the camp has a lot of things for kids to do and develop their skills. Have fun playing 🐢

Lot Info:

Placed on "Admiral's Wreckage" in Sulani

Lot Type: rental

Lot Traits: No

Lot Size: 50*50

Downoload: SFS / This lot will not be available in my gallery

Please do not reupload my work and do not pass it off as your own.

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

This 1953 Muntz Jet convertible underwent a three-year custom build under previous ownership, and it was purchased by the seller in 2021. The car is powered by a fuel-injected 5.7-liter LT1 V8 engine paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and a Ford 9″ rear end, and it is finished in Apple Pearl with a white Carson-style removable top over gray snakeskin-style Naugahyde upholstery. Features include custom bodywork, an Art Morrison frame, power-assisted steering, four-wheel disc brakes, airbag suspension, Painless Performance wiring, and more modified and fabricated details. This custom-built Muntz is now offered with a copy of Rodder’s Journal magazine featuring a story on the build and a clean California title in the name of the seller’s business.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

The steel, aluminum, and fiberglass body is mounted on an Art Morrison ladder frame that was boxed and finished in semi-gloss black, and the floor was raised 3″. The exterior was repainted in a Sherwin Williams two-stage Apple Pearl mixed by the late Stan Betz. Features include a chopped Duvall-style windshield, 1950 Chevrolet headlights, dual Appleton spotlights, 1951 Ford Victoria side windows, and a white removable Carson-style top fabricated to match the height of the chopped windshield. Additional equipment includes color-matched rear fender skirts and chrome bumpers. Wear from fitting the top is noted on the rear deck.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

Steel wheels sourced from a 1976 Dodge measure 15″ and are mounted with Cadillac Sombrero-style covers and whitewall tires. A matching spare fitted with a BFGoodrich Silvertown tire is mounted within a rear-mounted Continental-style chrome carrier. A Mustang II front end accommodates power rack-and-pinion steering , and the car rides on an electronically-adjustable Air Ride Technologies airbag suspension system along with 2” lowered front spindles, Strange Engineering tube shocks, a rear Panhard bar, and front and rear sway bars. The seller reports that the front control arm bushings were recently replaced.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

Braking is handled by GM G-body-sourced calipers matched with Ford Granada discs up front and Ford SVO-specification calipers and discs at the rear.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

The cabin was customized by Jim’s Auto Trim of San Diego, California, and features Glide bucket seats and a rear bench trimmed in gray snakeskin-style Naugahyde upholstery, along with matching treatments for the dash trim, headliner, and door panels. Additional equipment includes a 1952 Lincoln steering wheel mounted to a shortened Lincoln steering column, gray cut-pile carpet, and a Pioneer stereo housed within a custom center cubby.

The engine-turned “Hollywood” instrument cluster houses Stewart Warner gauges consisting of an 8k-rpm tachometer, a 160-mph speedometer, and auxiliary readings for fuel level, battery charge, oil pressure, and water temperature. The five-digit odometer displays 25k miles, though total chassis mileage is unknown. A Lokar pedal assembly was fitted during the build.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

The Corvette-sourced 5.7-liter LT1 V8 features a polished fuel intake manifold along with billet aluminum valve covers, and additional features include an Opti-Spark distributor, a Griffin aluminum radiator, and a wiring loom sourced from Painless Performance Wiring. A set of long-tube headers are connected to a 2.5″ exhaust system equipped with dual Dynaflow mufflers. The seller reports that the oil was recently changed.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

Power is routed to the rear wheels via a four-speed 4L60E automatic transmission and a Ford 9″ rear end with with 3.55:1 gears and Strange Engineering 31-spline axles. Additional photos of the underside, drivetrain, and suspension components are presented in the gallery below.

Custom 1953 Muntz Jet Convertible

The car was featured in issue #36 of Rodders Journal magazine

[demonslayedher]

Today I went to the Zenshuuchuu-ten (Total Concentration Exhibition) for the Swordsmith Village and Hashira Training arcs today!

This is basically a chance for Ufotable to be like, "remember that cool thing we did?" and for we the fans to be like, "yup, sure do, that's why we're here."

It's not quite as extensive as other KnY events I've been to, and it doesn't particularly provide any new information, but it's fun to see some glimpses of the process from animation cells to finished clips. There's always a handful of fun displays to interact with, scrolls of character designs, and nice panels to display screenshots, especially centered around character arcs and impactful moments.

This time it was roughly as follows:

1. A room with large screen shots of Muzan the Upper Moons that appear in time with lines from the show and twangs of a biwa

2. A small room with a small swordsmithing game that they hurry everyone through. You need to strike the sword with just the right amount of force to get a ball into the middle of three slots, which I did, so I got handed a little piece of paper which is my certification as a master. I mentioned this to a friend afterword and her response was "of course you did."

3. A room in two parts dedicated to Muichiro's arc in SSV, with a hazy curtain you pass through sort of like Muichiro gaining his memories, and a model of his sword backlit in turquoise

4. A room dedicated to Mitsuri's arc in SSV, including a model of her sword which curves all the way across the room, and a little Mitsuri whom you could challenge to arm wrestling. She beat me pretty easily.

5. A Genya room of screenshots, and models of both his short little sword and his gun. Forgot to mention that their lines were playing overheard in each room!

6. A Gyokko and Hantengu room. A Gyokko only appeared over a model of the vase if you took a photo with flash, and there was a little Hantengu figure to look for, and if you found it, they'd give you a piece of origami paper on your way out of the gallery (pretty much everybody found it, but it was tiny).

8. The dedicated to Nezuko's mastery was not in-your-face triumph, but instead had a TV screen playing the Nezuko tribute music video version of her song, with the lyrics as scattered across the grey walls as the stream-of-consciousness lyrics.

9. Right after that, the staff ushers you in to the Hashira meeting, as though you were late.

Next to the meeting taking place, there is a model of Tanjiro's new old sword.

8. After that is a room dedicated to Giyuu's back story. I liked the design of the hanging screenshots in this one. Although the overall image is "water" because of the blue, the water design with light cast on the floor, and water droplet sounds mixed in with Giyuu's lines, the half-and-half effect was perhaps not intentional, but it was there. When you turn back to look through this room, the hanging screenshots--memories of Sabito and Tsutako--are all black.

9. The rest is a room dedicated to the different stages of Hashira training, with 3-D displays like riceballs, paper airplanes, pancakes with honeycomb and a ribbon, a board with ropes and sword cut marks (yikes), scuffed wooden swords, and a boulder you could push on. Along the tops of these displays were some eyeballs scoping everything out...

10. After that they put you in a theater room with three wide screens and headphones. At the last Zenshuuchuuten they did a reedit of the Akaza and Rengoku fight across three screens, so I figured this would have has plunging into the Infinity Fortress. After a preview review of Hashira Training highlights and Muzan's walk, yup, sure enough things got explosive and they plunged us in via the big screen, including some extra disorientation by zooming really closely in on some moving shots, or having multiple things happen at once across the screens.

11. Then they funnel you into a place with a TV playing the announcement for the Infinity Castle movies. No new content or news.

12. After that, these things tend to have a bright and happy Kimetsu Academy room! You could take photos, but there was a chalkboard with the voice actors have let their signatures and messages for the fans. I appreciated how they seemed to reflect their characters in their comments and handwriting, to some extent (certainly not Matsuoka (Inosuke) or none of it would be legible, but Hayami (Shinobu) has very legible, handwriting, and Hanae (Tanjiro) has comments like "I hope you'll feel like GUWAAA and GAAAAA!"). You could not take photos of the signatures, but you could take a photo of Mitsuri's art and figment of her imagination who says disparaging things to her (despite how she wants her art to make the world happy?? Oh, the irony):

13. The gallery concludes with a hall eyecatch illustrations, and a hall of Ufotable staff art paying homage to their favorite characters and scenes. Always treat seeing things in Ufotable style, but with individual craft and taste!

14. After that, you buy things. This is where they get ya.

Kind of thankfully, it's late enough in the exhibition's run that they've already run out of a lot of the smaller items I was intrigued by, so I behaved myself. I got the t-shirts I was planning on (I love the simplicity of them so so much, and really had to resist getting the paper airplane one too), a Daki ribbon item leftover from the last exhibition (though what I really wanted was Daki shoelaces), and an official pamphlet of the event. My friend got a couple Osaka-only badges,but since she got doubles of Zenitsuup the Umeda Sky Building, she gave one to me.

I really love that "nanikore" ("what the...?") design. It's so simple, and if you don’t know KnY, you might think they're just silly little circus dudes. But people who know will be like, "!!!" and their day will be a little brighter for having seen it.

Gonna do a quick self-reblog now with some extra photos!

[starshideurfics]

Thirsty Thursday - Paris, 1889

steddie, omegaverse, starving artist eddie, moulin rouge dancer steve

Eddie Munson knows he’s lucky. Some days he feels like the luckiest man alive. He lives in Paris, he’s doing what he loves, and most days he has enough money to eat three meals.

And yes, most of that money is charity from his beloved uncle, and NOT from selling his artwork. 

In the year he’s been in his tiny garret, committing to La Vie Boheme, Eddie has sold one painting. He picks up odd jobs, sells sketches on the street, but paints are expensive.

So is coal. 

Winter is fast approaching, and to save on fuel costs, Eddie stays out of his flat as mich as possible, soliciting gallery owners and doing his best to get something in front of the eyes of the Paris elite. Then, in the evening, he goes to the Moulin Rouge.

It starts out with him trying to stay warm as long as possible, as late into the night. And to get cheap drinks.

The Can-Can dancers are just a fun bonus, fun to watch from the back, but little more.

At least until a new omega starts, wide-eyed and covered in beauty marks.

Now he’s *very interested* in the dancers, and even more annoyed with the fact that they’re dancing. He just wants to stare at the lovely omega, to capture his beauty in charcoal and chalk and oils. Eddie pulls out a little sketchbook, doing his best to get his features down.

He’s so absorbed that Eddie nearly forgets that the purpose of the dance is to titillate, the movements quick, the kicks showing off the splits in the dancers’ drawers, the shadow of pubic hair, and a hint of dusky pink.

Eddie wants to draw that too…

He goes back every night, trying to get a bit closer to *his* omega. Night after night he moves closer to the stage, finally close enough to smell. Most of it is heady perfume, he’s fairly certain the majority of the dancers are betas, but there’s a fresh note, sweet and green.

Staring dumbly up at his pretty dancer, Eddie prays for him to look his way. Three nights pass before their eyes meet, the omega flashing him a soft smile.

That night he builds up enough courage to wait at the dressing room door, to show his sketch to the security guard.

To get a name: Stéfan.

The guard agrees to ask Stéfan to come to the door after Eddie slips him a handful of francs. He’ll gladly give up breakfast tomorrow if he can speak to his new muse.

“Bonsoir,” a low, sweet voice says, startling Eddie from his reverie.

He’s wearing a long coat, buttoned up to his neck, hat on his head, but just as enthrallingly beautiful to Eddie. So enthralling that Eddie says as much, murmuring, “Good evening, Angel.”

“No need for that, Stef is fine.” The omega smiles. “You’re an artist, yes?”

“Yes, how did you know?”

Stef reaches for Eddie’s hands, turning them to show off the black smudges of charcoal on his fingers. “And I’ve seen you drawing in the audience.” He drags a finger up the center of Eddie’s palm. “What are you always drawing?”

“You,” Eddie blurts.

“Me? Why?” Stef asks with a laugh.

“I’m surprised every alpha you meet isn’t driven to catalogue your beauty.”

“Flatterer.”

“It is the truth! I’ve never seen a lovelier omega on this earth.”

“I doubt you’ve seen much outside of Paris.”

“It is still true,” Eddie pouts.

Stéfan is still holding Eddie’s hand, both of them blushing. “Are you hungry? There’s a café I like down the way, we could eat a late supper and maybe… You could show me some of your drawings?” He leans closer, sniffing not so discreetly at Eddie’s neck. “And tell me your name?”

“Édouard! My name is Édouard, um…Eddie, call me Eddie. And I would love to get supper with you.”

🎨🍾💗

Stef goes home with Eddie that night, showing him just how covered in beauty marks his body is, moaning as Eddie worships him with talented fingers.

At the end of the month, Eddie sells a painting: a sensual portrait of Stéfan in their bed. 

[dragons-and-handcuffs]

Key Areas and Attractions

1. Tower of the Sphinx

The Tower of the Sphinx is an iconic landmark that symbolizes the university’s commitment to knowledge and wisdom. This towering structure, with its grand spires and intricate carvings, houses administrative offices and serves as a central hub for university ceremonies and events.

2. Great Library

The Great Library is the intellectual heart of Citadel University. With its vast collection of rare manuscripts, ancient texts, and modern research materials, it provides students with unparalleled resources for academic study. The library’s elegant reading rooms and study areas offer a serene environment for focused research and contemplation.

3. Maester’s Gardens

A tranquil retreat from the bustling campus life, the Maester’s Gardens feature beautifully landscaped grounds, serene water features, and a variety of medicinal plants. It’s a perfect spot for quiet reflection, study, or leisurely walks amidst nature’s beauty.

4. Hightower Plaza

The Hightower Plaza is the vibrant social center of the campus. This open space is surrounded by cafes, shops, and student lounges, making it a popular gathering spot for relaxation, socializing, and campus events. The plaza’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by outdoor performances, markets, and student activities.

5. Alchemy Wing

The Alchemy Wing is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the study of alchemy and chemistry. With modern laboratories, advanced equipment, and research centers, it supports students and faculty in their pursuit of scientific discovery and innovation.

6. Observatory Tower

The Observatory Tower offers stunning views of the stars and planets, making it a central location for astronomy students. Equipped with powerful telescopes and observation platforms, it’s a hub for stargazing events, research, and astronomical studies.

7. Citadel Amphitheater

The Citadel Amphitheater is a grand venue for performances, lectures, and cultural events. Its open-air design and majestic stage make it the perfect location for theatrical productions, musical concerts, and public speaking engagements.

8. Student Union Building

The Student Union Building is the heart of student life at Citadel University. It features lounges, meeting rooms, a cafeteria, and spaces for student organizations and activities. It’s a place where students can connect, collaborate, and engage in campus life.

9. Equestrian Stables

The Equestrian Stables offer facilities for horse riding and care. Students involved in the Equestrian Club have access to well-maintained stables, riding arenas, and opportunities to participate in equestrian events and competitions.

10. Oldtown Regatta Dock

The Oldtown Regatta Dock is where the university’s rowing teams practice and compete. Situated along the Honeywine River, the dock provides stunning river views and is a focal point for rowing events and social gatherings.

11. Arts and Culture Center

The Arts and Culture Center houses the University Choir, Theater Troupe, Film Club, and other creative groups. It features rehearsal spaces, galleries, and performance venues where students can explore their artistic talents and engage in cultural activities.

12. Innovation and Start-Up Incubator

The Innovation and Start-Up Incubator is a modern facility dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and technological advancement. It provides resources, mentorship, and workspace for students and alumni working on innovative projects and start-ups.

13. Cloisters of Reflection

The Cloisters of Reflection offer a peaceful, contemplative environment with beautiful gardens and quiet alcoves. It’s an ideal place for meditation, personal reflection, or studying in a serene setting.

14. Environmental Technology Lab

The Environmental Technology Lab focuses on sustainable practices and environmental innovation. Equipped with advanced tools and resources, it supports research and projects aimed at addressing environmental challenges.

15. The Cultural Heritage Center

The Cultural Heritage Center celebrates the diverse traditions and histories of Westeros and beyond. It features exhibits, cultural events, and educational programs that highlight the rich heritage of the university’s global community.

Campus Atmosphere

Citadel University’s campus is designed to inspire and engage students through its unique blend of historical charm and modern functionality. From the majestic Tower of the Sphinx to the tranquil Maester’s Gardens, every corner of the campus reflects the university’s commitment to excellence in education, community, and innovation. Whether you’re exploring the historic cloisters, attending a performance at the amphitheater, or engaging in cutting-edge research, Citadel University offers an environment where tradition and progress come together to create a truly exceptional learning experience.

Subjects and Extra-Curricular Activities at Citadel University

Citadel University offers a diverse range of academic subjects and extra-curricular activities designed to provide students with a well-rounded education. Below is a comprehensive list of subjects and activities available:

Academic Subjects

1. Arts and Humanities

Ancient History: Study the rich history of Westeros and Essos, including the rise and fall of empires.

Literature: Explore classic and contemporary works from across the world.

Philosophy: Delve into the thoughts and ideas that have shaped civilizations.

Languages: Learn High Valyrian, Old Tongue, Braavosi, and more.

Theology: Study the religions of Westeros and beyond, from the Faith of the Seven to the Old Gods.

Medieval Studies: Focus on the history, culture, and society of the Middle Ages.

2. Arts and Design

Fashion Design: Study the art and science of creating clothing and accessories, including pattern making, textiles, and fashion history.

Textile Science: Explore the properties and applications of different fabrics, from ancient materials to modern innovations.

Interior Design: Learn how to design and decorate interior spaces, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and spatial planning.

Graphic Design: Develop skills in visual communication through digital and print media, including branding, typography, and digital illustration.

Industrial Design: Focus on designing everyday objects, from household items to complex machinery, combining form and function.

Jewelry Design: Study the creation and crafting of jewelry, including materials, techniques, and design principles.

3. Sciences

Alchemy and Chemistry: Combine traditional alchemy with modern chemistry to understand the elements.

Biology: Study the life sciences, including human, animal, and plant biology.

Astronomy: Explore the stars and planets in the Observatory Tower.

Physics: Understand the fundamental laws that govern the universe.

Mathematics: Cover everything from basic arithmetic to advanced theoretical math.

Environmental Science: Focus on sustainability, conservation, and the study of ecosystems.

4. Social Sciences

Economics: Study the forces that shape the markets and economies of Westeros.

Political Science: Learn about the governance systems across the Seven Kingdoms and beyond.

Psychology: Understand human behavior, emotions, and mental processes.

Sociology: Study the development, structure, and functioning of human society.

Anthropology: Explore the cultural and social aspects of human communities.

5. Law and Governance

Westerosi Law: Study the legal traditions and systems of Westeros.

International Relations: Learn about the dynamics between the various kingdoms and beyond.

Public Administration: Focus on the implementation of government policy and the management of public affairs.

6. Engineering and Technology

Mechanical Engineering: Study the design, construction, and use of machines.

Civil Engineering: Focus on the design and construction of infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings.

Electrical Engineering: Delve into the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism.

Computer Science: Explore programming, algorithms, and modern computing technologies.

Architectural Design: Study the principles and practices of architecture, combining creativity with engineering.

7. Medicine and Healing

Maester’s Path: A specialized track for those studying to become Maesters, with focuses on healing, herbology, and the arts of the mind.

Herbology: Learn about medicinal plants and their uses in healing.

Anatomy and Physiology: Study the human body in detail, preparing for careers in medicine and healthcare.

Sports and Athletics:

Rowing (Oldtown Regatta Team): Compete in the prestigious Oldtown Regatta on the Honeywine River.

Fencing: Master the art of swordplay in this elegant and strategic sport.

Archery: Hone your precision and focus with traditional Westerosi bows.

Equestrian: Ride and care for horses in the university’s stables and participate in competitions.

Martial Arts: Learn various forms of combat, from traditional to modern techniques.

Rugby: Engage in fast-paced, team-oriented matches on the rugby field.

Soccer: Play in competitive matches with teams across Westeros.

Swimming: Compete in individual and team events in the university’s pools.

Track and Field: Test your speed, endurance, and agility in a variety of athletic events.

Chess Club: Sharpen your strategic thinking through competitive and casual chess games.

Academic and Professional Societies:

Debate Society: Develop your argumentation and public speaking skills in lively debates.

Maester’s Guild: A community for students pursuing Maester studies, with specialized resources and events.

Engineering Society: Collaborate on engineering projects and explore innovations in the field.

Medical Society: Connect with peers in the medical field for networking, discussions, and case studies.

Law and Moot Court Society: Practice legal skills through simulated court cases and legal discussions.

Economic and Business Club: Analyze economic trends, discuss business strategies, and network with professionals.

History and Archaeology Club: Delve into the past with research, discussions, and archaeological field trips.

Philosophy Society: Engage in deep discussions about ethics, metaphysics, and philosophical ideas.

Creative Writing and Literature Club: Share your writing, discuss literature, and develop your creative voice.

Language Exchange Program: Improve your language skills by practicing with native speakers in a cultural exchange.

Arts and Culture:

University Choir: Perform choral music at university events and concerts.

Theater Troupe: Act in plays and productions, bringing stories to life on stage.

Film Club: Watch, discuss, and create films, exploring the art of cinema.

Photography Club: Capture the beauty of the campus and beyond through the lens.

Fine Arts Society: Express your creativity through painting, sculpture, and other visual arts.

Dance Ensemble: Learn and perform a variety of dance styles in a collaborative environment.

Music Band: Play and perform music with fellow musicians in diverse genres.

Cultural Heritage Society: Celebrate and explore the cultural traditions and histories of Westeros and beyond.

Folklore and Mythology Group: Study and discuss the legends, myths, and folklore of different cultures.

Poetry Slam: Share your poetic voice in spoken word competitions and events.

Community and Social Engagement:

Environmental Conservation Group: Participate in projects focused on sustainability and environmental protection.

Public Health Outreach: Work on initiatives that promote health and wellness in the community.

Student Government Association: Represent the student body and help shape campus policies.

Model United Nations: Simulate global diplomacy and debate international issues.

Volunteer and Charity Group: Engage in volunteer work and organize charity events to support various causes.

Debating for Change: Use public speaking to advocate for social justice and change.

International Student Association: Connect with students from around the world and celebrate cultural diversity.

Women’s Empowerment Network: Support and empower women in leadership and career development.

LGBTQ+ Alliance: Advocate for and support the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

Sustainability Club: Promote sustainable practices and environmental consciousness on campus.

Technology and Innovation:

Robotics Club: Design, build, and program robots for competitions and projects.

Artificial Intelligence Society: Explore AI technologies and their applications in various fields.

Coding and Programming Club: Enhance your coding skills through collaborative projects and challenges.

Astronomy and Space Exploration Society: Study the stars and planets, and discuss space exploration.

Innovation and Start-Up Incubator: Turn your ideas into reality with support for start-ups and innovations.

Virtual Reality and Gaming Club: Dive into the world of VR and gaming, exploring new technologies and games.

Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Group: Learn about and discuss the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology.

Environmental Technology Group: Innovate solutions to environmental challenges through technology.

Biotechnology Society: Explore the intersection of biology and technology in cutting-edge research.

Drone and Aeronautics Club: Build and pilot drones, and learn about aeronautical engineering.

Special Interest Groups:

Wine and Gastronomy Club: Explore the culinary arts and wine culture of Westeros and beyond.

Historical Reenactment Society: Bring history to life through reenactments of famous events and battles.

Meditation and Mindfulness Group: Practice mindfulness and meditation for mental well-being.

Book Club: Discuss and share insights on a wide range of literary works.

Board Games and RPG Club: Engage in strategy games, role-playing adventures, and board games.

Travel and Adventure Society: Plan and embark on exciting trips and outdoor adventures.

Gardening and Botany Enthusiasts: Cultivate plants and learn about botany in the university gardens.

Tea Appreciation Society: Discover the art of tea brewing and enjoy different varieties from around the world.

Fantasy and Science Fiction Society: Explore fantastical worlds and futuristic ideas through books, films, and discussions.

Traditions and Events:

Maester’s Ball: A grand annual event where students and faculty gather for a formal evening of celebration.

Spring Festival: A vibrant celebration of the season with music, dance, and cultural performances.

Oldtown Regatta: A rowing competition that brings together the best teams from across Westeros.

Harvest Feast: Celebrate the bounty of the harvest with a feast and festival in the autumn.

Winter Masquerade: A mysterious and elegant winter ball with costumes and masks.

Graduation Conclave: A formal ceremony marking the culmination of students' academic journey.

Innovation Expo: Showcase your innovative projects and ideas to the university and the public.

Literary Festival: A celebration of literature with readings, workshops, and author talks.

Cultural Night: An evening to celebrate the diverse cultures represented at Citadel University.

Sports Day: A day of friendly competition and athletic events across various sports.

The beautiful images are made by @zaldritzosrose, as amazing as ever. I only had to describe a few words and she created these so quickly. Really grateful for you help and ideas :)

[simstorian-blog]

Planet Honey Pop!

(CC List + Links)

[NOTE: The light switch to the Ravasheen Hidden Lights is on the bubble tea kiosk half wall on the ground level.]

World Map: San Myshuno

Area: Fashion District

Lot Size:  30 x 20

Amenities:

Arcade

Gaming/Internet Café

“Manga” Reading Area

Retail

Rooftop Bar

Thrift & Bubble Tea Store

Gallery ID: Simstorian-ish

Packs Needed

Expansion Packs

Cats & Dogs

City Living

Discover University

Eco Lifestyle

Get Famous

Get Together

Get To Work

Growing Together

High School Years

Lovestruck

Snowy Escape

Game Packs

Dine Out

Dream Home Decorator

Spa Day

Star Wars: Journey to Batuu

Strangerville

Stuff Packs

Moschino Stuff

Kits

Desert Luxe

Recommended Gameplay Mods

(Please read through what each mod has to offer before deciding if it fits your gameplay style or not.)

Arcade Lot Trait

City Vibes Lot Trait Collection

Functional Arcade

Lock/Unlock Doors for Any Lot

MC Command Center

Spawn Refresh

Build Mode

Hamsterbelle

Mini Space Hamster Set (Railings, Stairway)

Felixandre

Paris Pt 1 (Awning Open Long & Short)

Harlix

Harluxe (Laminated Wall)

Tiny Twavellers (Mural Wallpaper)

Harrie

Klean Pt. 2

Klean Pt. 3

LittleDica

Rise & Grind (Fence 2, Wallpaper 1)

MoonSimmers

Bonaerense Set (Mosaic Floor Small, Trim Granitic Mosaic Floor)

Nempne

Cover Sheet Ceiling Tile

Pierisim

Tilable (Plaster)

Syboubou

Classic Elevator (This is NEEDED)

The Royal Geek

Vintage Life Flooring

Buy Mode

AroundTheSims4

Museum Exhibition Shop (Bag, Bag Wall Display, Poster Rolls Display)

Cepzid

Arcade Room Pack (Only the Games)

Felixandre

SOHO Pt. 1 (Mirror Slim, Round Sink, Toilet & Remote)

SOHO Pt. 4 (Lounge Seating, Lounge Table, Planter, Shelving & Poles- ALL, Stool)

SOHO Pt. 5 (Duffle Bag, Kelly Bag)

SOHO Pt. 6 (Jute Rug 4 x 3, Postcards)

Hamsterbelle

Cyberpunk Neon Lights (SpunkyMoney, Tengu)

Floor Light Décor

Hanraja

S015 (Desk Chair 3 LOW)

S019 (Desk, Desktops)

Harlix

Kichen (Glasses)

Kichen 2.0 (Glasses)

Livin’ Rum (3D Wall Art, Coffee Table, End Table, Shelves)

Ledger Atelier

Bar Counter (DL Attached Bellow)

LittleDica

H&B Store (Aisle Sign Lit, Lit Letters – ALL, Stage Light 8)

LustrousSims

Simlish Bookstore

NANDO

Fashion Store

No Style x Woodland

Cöfkeksa Lounge Chair

Tamsusja Booth Corner

Peacemaker

Kassova Sectional

Pierisim

Stefan Living Room (Curtains & Rod - TALL)

Unfold (Dining Table, End Table)

Ravasheen

Easy Peasy Lumen Squeezy Hidden Lights

Shake & Shimmy Dance Floor

RusticSims

IRL (Dining Chair, Taburete)

Sundays

Kediri Pt. 1 (Throw Pillow- Solids)

Sumba Pt. 2 (Wardrobe Dresser II- Small)

TaurusDesign

Lilith Chillin’ Areas Pt. 1 (Drinks - ALL)

Tuds

Beam Kitchen (Table Bar 1x2)

DO NOT REUPLOAD MY LOTS.

DO NOT CLAIM THEM AS YOUR OWN.

DO NOT PLACE BEHIND A PAYWALL.

Tray Files: DOWNLOAD

[runawaydr3amerao3]

The Sims 4 Mods/Custom Content I Use

See my Simsnatural posts here! (Warning: May contain actual or references to Wincest, CGI and animated nudity and sex, kinky shit, and other absolute nonsense.)

I've decided to make a masterpost of the mods and custom content I use to play TS4, so that I can just link back here instead of listing them every time on every post I make of my Winchester Sims. I'll list all of my mods, but I'll only list CC if it's visible in a screenshot I share or mentioned in a post. Otherwise things would get unmanageable.

For reference, I play The Sims 4 with all expansions and stuff packs. EA can bite the big one.

Mods:

Better Exceptions

Bouncing Sim Boobies

Child Birth Mod

Ding & Ditch Smart Doorbell

Education Overhaul

FlirtyFetishes: BDSiM

GeneralPieMenu

MC Command Center

Mood Pack

More Columns in CAS

Pose Player

Selectable Pets Always

SharedTuning

Smarter Pie Menu: Searchable Interactions

Teleport Any Sim

Unlock/Lock Doors for chosen sims

Wicked Whims

Wicked Whims Inappropriate Unlock

XML Injector

Custom Content:

Appearance:

Dimples by PralineSims

Eye colours by PralineSims

Eyebrows by PralineSims

Penis Meshes by Supern4tural

Pierced Penis by Khlas

Clothing:

Boxer-briefs with side mesh by Joliebean

Lace boyshorts by Joliebean & Imvikai

Layered autumn plaid by SimmieV

Pentacle sweater by SimmieV

Sarcasm Inc t-shirt by PralineSims

Gameplay:

Pregnancy Pose Pack by Katverse

Wicked Whims sex animations (shown in posts so far: Anarcis, Artista De Bastardo, FausTTerM, Khlas, MOTHERLODESIMS)

Objects:

BDSM Easel by YrSa

Beer bottles by Around the Sims 4

Glass of vodka by Around the Sims 4

Glock handgun – original by XanKriegor, TS4 edit by SG5150, found here

Naughty TV by Reitanna

Sex toys by 0zzzy: ball gag

Sex toys by asketo: anal beads, dildo with handle, hanging chain, tentacle dildo

Sex toys by chisami: Lovehoney g-spot dildo and wall dildo

Sex toys by Julie J: collar and leash

Sex toys by Khlas: fleshlight

Sex toys by Kodenu: hanging belt and bull whip

Sex toys by Noir and Dark / scaled by wild_guy: chrome dildo, metallic plug, realistic dildo, wand massager

Sex toys by Supern4tural: horse dildo

Whiskey bottle by leosims

Wine cellar by Kaydazzle420 (in-game gallery)

Supernatural-themed Custom Content:

1967 Chevrolet Impala – original by Fresh-Prince Creations, TS4 edit by SG5150, found here

Anti-Possession Tattoo by plumbobfae

Dean's Amulet by BAkalia

Devil's Trap Rugs by WWOM_KittyKatt

Mark of Cain by Nys!k

Men of Letters Bunker by xogerardine

Winchester Bros t-shirt by simmi98x

Sincere apologies if I forget to list anything at any stage. I'm always open to being reminded. And if any links break, do let me know.

Also, please note that I cannot guarantee the security of each link indefinitely. Use your own discretion as well as protective software the way you would/should at any other time.

[holy-puckslibrary]

sid to a furry friend's rescue!

florist!reader gets flustered during sid's calendar shoot

oh, nothing... just them playing house doing a mentorship day and stirring up the rumor mill... another tuesday!

gif from @ehghtyseven

Sidney remains cautious around the local amateur matchmaker, adopting a level of vigilance, one not unlike that of the state he experienced while on duty, whenever she and her cohort openly collude on his behalf. Unfortunately for him—and anyone else audacious enough to be single in their vicinity, their movements are as unpredictable as they are assured to occur.

He could be milling around the market down the block from the station, or waiting for his order at the hole-in-the-wall café beside your shop—even his mailbox was fair game. Blissfully alone one minute, and the next? He's center stage as Halifax's Most Eligible Bachelor, unwittingly sifting through a rolodex of eager contestants, many of whom present in name only.

Their community wasn't remarkable small, but it was quiet. So, Sid could understand the appeal. The residents, many of whom were nearing retirement or already had been for several years, had little else to fuss over. It wasn't uncommon for a single person to become a central topic of conversation at the bingo table or the church pew. Everyone got their turn.

But, of the community's ever-dwindling pool, Sidney Crosby is most definitely the favorite, with you not far behind.

When you arrived, Sid breathed a sigh of relief. Fresh meat meant that, at least a little while, the heat would be off his back. He could go about his business without a peanut gallery or having to stand trial over the state of his (non-existent) romantic life.

It felt somewhat callous to hope for someone else's life to be probed and scrutinized the way his has been, but his reprieve was long overdue. And it wasn't as though he intended for you to fend for yourself. He knew firsthand how relentless Madame Matchmaker—as she liked to be called—could be, and therefore, he could be a vital resource and a nice shoulder to lean on.

You were receptive to his aid and grateful for his kindness, and while Sidney anticipated this alliance of sorts would be largely one-way, he was pleasantly surprised to realize a positive, unintended consequence—a deterrence to meddling. With you by his side, Sidney was approached significantly less.

You both were.

And you knew why. It wasn't hard to connect the dots; appearing together effectively marked you as "off-limits," and, therefore, not worth their time or help.

However, it soon became clear the rouse worked a little too well. And, unwilling to fabricate a half-truth or outright lie, the horde of Cupids found reason to descend with renewed fervor. This time, with a fresh initiative: to bring their fantastical assumptions to fruition.

Today's doings were further fodder, and the pile of pooped toddlers curled between you being the chief culprits.

For nearly eight hours, you looked and behaved like a stereotypical nuclear family out for field trip. The day began with a breakfast spread seated at your breakfast nook and a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood. Then, a trip to your shop for a light lesson in floriculture and an introduction to bouquet arrangement, before the four of you made your way to the station for an edu-chat on fire prevention and safety. And, of course, a gear try-on and (assisted) turns with the fire hose. (Sidney wishes he would've snuck a photo of you donning his helmet.)

As the sun slipped closer to the horizon, you crumpled onto a bench framing the park in the center of town.

Managing two children together for Mentor Day seemed less daunting than going it alone, and it had been—but at what cost?

The hushed giggles just within earshot are measure enough.

"We're never going to hear the end of this, are we?"

Sidney hides his splitting grin behind his hand, all too aware of the typical spectators not two yards from where you're sat. It was best to find amusement in their meddling whenever possible.

"Definitely not," he concurs.

You lapse into comfortable silence, as you usually do around this hour on one of your back porches. The fading sun paints the town square in a buttery golden light soon after. Neither of you can resist stealing glances, open and lingering, too eager to watch the color dance across the other's face to worry about public perception and speculation.

Tired eyes tracking over your face, Sidney hums, "Today was a good day."

He watches you nod in agreement, a dreamy little smile pulling at your mouth. Behind the children's heads, your warm fingers tangle in his. His heart thuds when your hand gently squeezes his three times.

"Yeah, it was."

—

someone let me give him kids! now!

as always, i would really appreciate if you reblogged my work, left a comment or dropped by my inbox w some feedback :) fandom runs on engagement, and so do writers!! thx a mil in advance!

READ MORE OF THEM HERE!

[yunhohours]

Seventeen: Top 5 Kinks

a/n: i received many requests to do this series with various members after readers saw the ones i did for wonwoo and seungcheol. those are copied and pasted here, but the others are all new <3 also since there are so many members and five kinks a piece, there will likely be overlap! i don't want to assign kinks to members that i don't genuinely believe they could have just for the sake of sWiTcHiNg ThInGs uP

p.s. the kinks are not necessarily in order!

seungcheol

mutual masturbation - he likes to watch you touch yourself while he touches himself. smirks like hell the entire time. likes to instruct you on exactly how he wants you to touch yourself.

skype sex - this is similar to no. 1 in the sense that they’re both essentially mutual masturbation, but this is different in his mind. this feels particularly exciting to him because it feels so playful and he probably does it at random times that may not be the smartest choice. he feels like you’re doing something you shouldn’t be and he likes that. of course he gets to watch you, too, which we already know he likes.

shower sex - loves pulling you out of bed with him for his morning shower. he loves the way his senses are heightened from sleep, the way the water feels on his skin, the way you feel around him. he goes hard despite being groggy. it really wakes him up and he likes to start both of your days off “the right way.”

filming - i know i am beating the “cheol is a visual person” thing to death but he is. if you let him, he’ll have a gallery full of photos and videos of you in various stages of undress and engaging in various sexual activities. with him only, of course. would not surprise me even a little bit for him to have a photo of you obviously naked (but unable to see anything compromising), looking up at him, sticking your tongue out as he grips your chin as his wallpaper on his phone.

creampie - he is possessive, proud to have you, and accomplishment-oriented. this gives him all of those at once. he feels like he’s marked you, he loves that no one else gets to have you like this, and he’s succeeded in a) finishing and b) claiming you. bonus points that he gets to enjoy rough sex without having to worry about stopping to pull out or have a condom “in the way.” (i am not advising this, please be safe!)

jeonghan

phone sex - ok hear me out. he doesn't actually love phone sex that much. not in the way that it makes him horny and you touch yourselves together. but he absolutely loves getting you worked up and making you yourself for him. that part... that's what does it for him.

quickies - to put it simply: jeonghan sometimes thinks that all the time and intention that goes into having sex just feels... silly? like he's not trying to make it a big deal and if it feels like that then it can throw him off if he's not in the right mood. quickies are perfect because it's none of that. just pleasure without all the other stuff.

drunk sex - this is pretty similar to the reason he loves quickies tbh. drunk sex is less serious and he loves that. but also, when his mind is less active in the way it normally is when he's sober, he is better able to truly appreciate how beautiful and perfect you are. there are no mental distractions. just you and your body.

threesomes/sharing - if you're into this, so is jeonghan. like he's really so into it. but the center focus of this is always your pleasure. jeonghan mostly likes to watch you being pleasured by someone else, but he doesn't just want to sit off to the side. he wants to talk to you during it and kiss you and let his hands touch you wherever they please. he's not quite a cuck, not quite a voyeur, because he has to be involved to some degree. he will engage with the third party but to a more minimal degree (probably just kissing/touching, no oral or penetration).

sex toys - sex toys just incite curiosity in jeonghan. he loves trying new ones with you to see what they can do. it doesn't always go smoothly and he loves getting to laugh with you about it. you probably have an entire chest for both your pleasure and his.

joshua

scratching (receiving) - i don't think joshua realized how much he liked having his back scratched up by you until he saw them in the mirror. just looking at the marks excites him and makes him want to go looking for you.

striptease (receiving) - joshua is the best audience of one when you give him a little show. he sits there with that little half smile, half smirk on his face and acts so casual. just humming in response to what you say and saying simple things like "oh really?" "is that right?" "wanna come sit in my lap, pretty girl/boy?"

car sex - ngl i think most of the time joshua just wants to have sex at home. alone. but sometimes when you look too good and the vibe is just right, he gets the urge to pull in somewhere empty enough and fuck you in the car. his adrenaline is always racing and he can't stop grinning about it for the rest of the day.

blindfolds (receiving) - on the rare occasion, joshua likes to be completely at your mercy. the way you touch him is heightened so much when he can't see it coming and it makes him a sensitive mess. literally feels like he's in heaven.

pet play (light) - i really need to emphasize the light here because a) joshua would not think he'd be into this on his own and b) he only dips his toe into it but fuck if he doesn't like that little bit. come to him naked with a collar and kitty ears on (bonus points for a tail!) and he's thanking all the gods for you. loves calling you kitten. loves the way you want to please him and be good for him.

junhui

oral sex (giving) - jun loves giving you the sloppiest head over omg. he has a job to do and he doesn't care what happens in the process as long as you're blessing him with your beautiful moans and rewarding him for his hard work with an orgasm. often goes down on you with no plans of anything else afterwards.

sexting - you cannot convince me there's a better sexter in the world than jun. bro makes you so fucking horny with just words on a screen. he doesn't need his voice, pictures, anything. he specifically loves initiating it when you're not at home because he's a menace (hot).

voyeurism - jun likes to attend sex parties/clubs with you and get yourselves riled up watching other people fuck. the need gets so strong just watching for so long without any physical stimulation that by the time you actually do have sex, it's intense and doesn't last long but the orgasms are always top tier.

exhibitionism - similarly, jun likes to be the show for other people. he's very much aware that he's a godlike specimen and so are you. why not gift others a once-in-a-lifetime experience that they'll surely never forget? this bleeds over into your normal daily life as well - he is not bothered if someone catches you two. quite the contrary.

dirty/messy/sloppy sex - yes, jun likes giving you sloppy head but he also just likes everything to be messy. he loves when you're both sweating all over each other, when you're drooling on each other, when he can see the cum leaking out of you. something about feeling dirty really does it for him. the messier the better.

soonyoung

kissing - listen, hoshi loves kissing. he could kiss you all day every day if time and you permitted. but like... he really loves it. if you just kiss him long enough, he's going to be so fucking horny he can't stand it. you don't have to touch him or even kiss him particularly intensely (though of course that helps).

rimming (receiving) - i will die on this hill. nothing will make hoshi whinier than being on all fours with your tongue working his hole. he's so loud and so happy oh my god.

temperature play - temperature play is just fun and what is hoshi if not a fun guy? he giggles a lot when your skin stutters from a drop of wax by his hand and he moans with stars in his eyes when you're dragging a cube of ice down his body with your mouth.

drunk sex - he's beyond grateful any time you amplify his already fantastic time by having playful, head empty sex with him. he gets so clingy when he drinks and he just needs you to remind him how much you love him and how special he is.

somnophilia (receiving) - this really only happens when you wake him up with head but it's one of his favorite things in the world. he falls into sub space immediately upon waking and fully trusts you to take care of him and make him feel good.

wonwoo

praise (receiving) - he likes to know he’s making you feel good. he’s confident in his abilities so he doesn’t necessarily need it, but a choked “you feel so good wonwoo” will have him buzzing. his ego likes that.

lingerie - just the idea that you put so much thought into dressing up for him makes him feel special and that does it for him. it helps that you look amazing in it too, of course.

scratching - mark his back up when he’s fucking you, please. it’s a reminder that he made you feel so good you were holding on for dear life and he cherishes every single one.

breeding - he’s familial and likes a bit of possessiveness in the bedroom. loves the idea of you being full of him. makes you feel even more like his. probably isn't actually trying to knock you up but if it happens, he's not sorry about it.

somnophilia - consensual of course. wake him up inside of you in any way and oh my god he could swear he’s in heaven. there are probably many middle-of-the-night sleepy fucks every year and he never wants them to stop. very gentle with you when he touches you awake he's so lovely.

jihoon

comfort sex - woozi almost doesn't even mind when things upset him anymore. you always take such good care of him when he's stressed or upset, making him cum to clear his head and relax. now when something gets him worked up, he's almost grateful because he knows he gets to go home and be treated like your precious pillow prince.

morning sex - similar to comfort sex, woozi uses morning sex as a way to get through life. he knows he's going to be busy and stressed pretty much every day but starting the day off inside you surely helps. he also thinks you look so beautiful when you first wake up. how is he meant to keep his hands to himself?

dry humping/clothed sex - woozi is more than happy to cum in his pants as long as you're cumming in yours too. sometimes it's just easier, but mostly he thinks it's hot because it feels like you're both too eager to have each other that you couldn't even take the time to get your clothes out of the way.

orgasm denial (receiving) - woozi knows how to run the show and assert himself. he likes to be viewed as capable and a leader, even if he doesn't always feel that way himself. but with you... he likes relinquishing all that control to you and letting you tell him what's what. denying his orgasm is peak control. he gets so frustrated and whiny but he wants you to keep doing it over and over.

oral sex (receiving) - there's just nothing like your warm, wet mouth. he doesn't have to do any of the work and reaps all the benefits. plus you look so hot taking care of him.

seokmin

dirty talk - dk is communicative. he likes to talk to you and listen to you, even during sex. he has plenty to say on his own, but listening to you talk dirty to him? omfg he's gonna cum rn.

body worship (giving) - you are the most perfect thing on planet earth and our darling dk is going to make sure you know that. he'll spend so much time kissing and praising every part of you that you'll simply have to agree with his assertion that there is nothing more beautiful than you.

make up sex - this absolute angel cannot stand fighting with you so he never lets it go on for long. he'll come find you, apologize profusely, and then kiss you until you're giving in to him, letting him show you just how sorry he is.

loud sex - the way dk looks at you with hearts in his eyes when you're moaning nice and loud for him should be a crime. it makes him feel good about himself to know that he's pleasing you well enough that you can't get a reign on your volume level. even if you could, he wouldn't want you to. only fucks you harder to see just how loud you can get with the biggest grin on his face.

hair pulling (receiving) - pulling dk's hair is a sign that he's doing something right and he wants more. it feels good too. he lets his head fall back into your hand with the most blissful moan.

mingyu

size kink - is anyone surprised to see this here? me neither. mingyu just loves the way you gawk at his large body and can't seem to keep your hands off of it. his ego swells every time. he also loves how tiny you look crying out his name underneath him.

praise/degradation - he loves both, okay? he wants to be the best, most beautiful and perfect boy in the world for you but he also wants to be your pathetic little toy. he likes to be objectified when you degrade him - he's not into being sissified or anything like that. just remind him that he's for you to use and that he should consider himself grateful, that kind of thing. he'll even let you slap him around a bit. as for praise, just give it all to him. he eats it all up.

choking - mingyu is happy to be on either end of this one. he never wants to participate to the point of either of you losing consciousness, but he thinks the display of power is sexy.

semi-public sex - mingyu doesn't want to actually be caught fucking you, but he likes the adrenaline that the possibility creates. he especially likes it when you're the one that's needy for him and he "gets" to sneak you off into a closet or bathroom somewhere to take care of you. "can't wait until we get home, hmm? tsk tsk you're lucky i'm such a good boyfriend"

teasing - another one he's happy to be on either end of. he loves to tease you and he loves it when you tease him. that feeling of being head empty only each other during the middle of the fucking day no less is intoxicating. he could live in that state of limbo forever. the actual sex is great of course, but the foreplay of teasing might just be better.

minghao

lingerie - this is especially his thing when he gets to pick out your little outfit. he loves playing dress up with you and then fucking you stupid in it.

spit kink (giving) - no way in hell would he admit this to another soul, but he likes to spit in your mouth. he thinks it's nasty, but that's the point. you're so willing to please him that you'd let him spit in your mouth? my fucking god.

finger sucking (giving) - think of anything you can do that proves you're wrapped around minghao's fingers and you can bet he's into it. loves making eye contact with you while you suck your juices from his fingers. "you just do anything i want, don't you?"

dumbification (giving) - here we have yet another degradation kink of minghao's. he absolutely loves when you're so cock drunk and fucked out that you're barely even there anymore. can't talk to him properly (if at all), just pathetic sounds of pleasure falling from your lips. makes sure to taunt you about it the entire time.

overstimulation - minghao is usually on the giving end of this. watching you shake and cry because he won't relent on pleasuring you plasters the most self-satisfied smirk on his face. but once in a blue moon, he lets you take the lead. and when he does, he wants to make the most of it. so don't let him off easy. make him cry.

seungkwan

handjobs - seungkwan loves blowjobs, don't misunderstand. but handjobs are special. he loves watching your hand around him and he likes that your mouth is free to talk to him. he loves to have a back and forth of flirtatious banter as if you're not literally going to make him cum any second as it is.

cockwarming - seungkwan likes to pretend that he can be all cool about this. he likes to think that he can feel you wrapped tightly around him and be perfectly content with just that. sometimes he's right, especially when he's sleepy enough. but other times it's just a guise he uses instead of just admitting that he wants sex. those times, he holds out for as long as he can, but once he gives up, he fucks you harder than usual. he likes the challenge.

roleplay - he only likes a very specific type of roleplay: when you pretend you're strangers meeting somewhere and seduce each other. seungkwan is all about banter (as evidenced by kink #1) so this gets him going.

fingering (giving) - making you cum with only his fingers is a favorite pastime of seungkwan's. he especially likes doing this in the mornings when you're pretty and needy.

perfume/cologne - seungkwan just can't help himself when you're wearing a nice fragrance and he gets a whiff. all he can think about is burying his face into your neck to drown in it while he fucks into you.

vernon

face-fucking - vernon loves when you let him take control of your mouth on him. he loves to fuck himself into your throat if you can take it, but if that doesn't work for you, he'll take it nice and easy, just guiding you with his hand on the back of your head. always makes extra sure you're okay afterwards because he's the sweetest dude.

somnophilia - sometimes vernon wakes up in the middle of the night with an aching erection. those nights, he's grateful that you let him slip himself inside you even while you're sleeping. you're so good to him.

lazy sex - somno is usually pretty lazy, but vernon just loves lazy sex in general. it's nice when neither of you have to exert so much energy and can focus solely on how good it feels to be full of each other.

mutual masturbation - this is usually accompanied by watching porn together. you'll both sit up against the headboard, eyes glued to the screen as you touch yourselves. at some point along the way, your eyes drift to watching each other instead, kissing often and sometimes taking over for the other.

spanking (giving) - i think this is a repressed kink of vernon's lmao. like he'll usually spank you as a "joke," but when he hears the way you yelp - or worse, moan - in response, he's in trouble.

chan

sex toys - finding new ways to make you cum is so fun for dino. he memorizes the way each toy makes you respond and uses that information for good evil. he has no interest in using them for himself, but he loves looking up at you while he fucks you with one of your toys. you look perfect to him like that.

dirty talk - i'm convinced dino has a filthy mouth omg. like he just gets so cocky when you're having sex that he starts saying any and everything he can think of, no matter how crazy it'd sound to him when he's thinking straight.

wall sex - if there's one thing dino's gonna do it's try to show off to you. and holding you up against the wall while he absolutely ruins you is one of many ways he likes to do that. he feels so fucking powerful that he can't help but go harder on you.

thigh riding - dino is quite confident when it comes to his muscles. in the name of peacocking to you, he likes to make you cum on his thigh. sometimes he'll guide you, doing all the work just to show you all he needs is his thigh to make you feel good. other times, he'll sit back and make you do all the work. proves the same point after all, doesn't it?

jealous sex - dino is yours and you are his. any time either of you feels jealous because of someone else, dino think it's high time you remind yourselves. by fucking, of course.

[nobrashfestivity]

Hodaka Yoshida Sacrifice (Ikenie)

self-carved, self-printed; signed and dated in pencil on the lower right, Hodaka Yoshida, 1956, titled on the bottom left corner, Sacrifice, 1956

16 1/2 by 22 5/8 in., 41.9 by 57.5 cm

In 1955 Hodaka traveled with his brother Toshi to Mexico, a trip which had a profound influence on his work, leading to a third period of work which Skibbe refers to as 'primitive energy prints.' Inspired by Mayan sculpture and architecture in the Yucatan, the early works in this stage depict a single form in the center of the picture plane. In this composition, Hodaka depicts a kneeling elephant offering a wrapped gift held aloft with his trunk.

Scholten Gallery

[rosanna-writer]

Love at First Sight's for Suckers (2/5)

Summary: [A Feysand Newsies AU] Rhysand had a reputation. A big reputation. But fortunately for Feyre, a newsie selling papers on the streets of Velaris, tabloid gossip about the handsome, charismatic, hard-partying war-hero of a High Lord's heir means business is booming. That is, until the city's newspaper magnates get greedy, Feyre finds herself an unwitting labor leader at the center of a strike, and Rhys becomes an unexpected ally... Warnings: None

We're back with Feyre continuing to unwittingly make Rhys lose his mind in second part of my gift for @the-lonelybarricade for @acotargiftexchange! Thank you to @itsthedoodle for beta reading <3

Ch. 1 - Got a Feelin' 'bout the Headline | Ch. 2 - Beautiful. Smart. Independent.

You can read the second chapter Here on AO3 or under the readmore.

Feyre really didn't like the way that cop was looking at her. He'd already passed her corner once, and she'd forced herself to ignore him and just keep hawking papers. There were hundreds of lesser fae newsies just like her on the streets of Velaris—even though she was shouting headlines, she might as well have been invisible.

And when you were technically a fugitive, nothing less than invisible would do.

But something had made him turn around and come back. Lucien, at least, was long gone, back to his spot by the docks to finish work for the day. Feyre hoped he wouldn't come looking for her again; if she needed to bolt, Lucien couldn't travel through shadows, and Feyre would never, ever leave her best friend behind.

Recognition flickered in the policeman's eyes. He broke into a run, straight towards her. "Feyre Archeron!" he shouted.

Heads turned. Feyre's heart pounded. The faeries in the square turned their attention to her, putting it together that they had a criminal in their midst.

So Feyre became a shadow again.

To everyone else, it looked like she'd disappeared entirely. But Feyre had merely made herself impossible to grab, nothing more than a wisp of darkness, and she slid into the shadow that the nearby streetlight cast in the late afternoon sun.

She couldn't stay like this forever, so like a ghost, she passed through the solid walls and doors of the Rainbow. Feyre tried to ignore the pang of longing at the workshops and art galleries—there was no time to linger. The Rainbow had always been a safe haven, but there was one place in particular she knew she wouldn't be found.

Once she was backstage at Ressina's theater, Feyre let herself become corporeal again…only to be greeted by an ear-piercing shriek.

"High Lady! " Ressina cried. "Do you really have to do that right in the middle of my dressing room?"

"Sorry. Had a bit of an emergency, Mind if I hide out here for a while?" Feyre said.

Ressina smiled. "My favorite scenic designer can stay here as long as she likes."

Feyre leaned in and kissed the air just above both of Ressina's cheeks, careful not to touch the actress's heavy stage makeup. If Ressina hadn't been wearing an elaborate sequined costume, complete with feathered hat perched precariously on her head, Feyre would have given the female a hug.

"Painting a few trees hardly makes me a scenic designer."

"I made sure you're credited as one in the playbill. And we've been getting such good reviews, I can finally pay instead of owing you a favor. Rhysand and Morrigan are even in the audience tonight."

"Rhysand is…here?" Feyre almost didn't believe she'd heard correctly. As far as she knew, the prince spent his free time at parties and pleasure halls—not in small, lesser fae-run playhouses in out-of-the-way corners of the city.

Cauldron, did he even like musicals?

"Probably some arts patronage thing. Morrigan is on the board of damn near every charity in Velaris."

That made a bit more sense, Feyre supposed. It was common knowledge that Rhys and his cousin were close; perhaps she'd dragged him here. And regardless of why, the buzz from the prince's attendance would do wonders for ticket sales, and Ressina deserved that. In addition to performing, she owned the place, having built the business from the ground up herself. "That's fantastic news."

Ressina shrugged. "We'll see if anything actually comes of it. I don't count my dragons before they hatch. Intermission is almost over, but feel free to stay and watch the rest."

And with that, Ressina left. From previous experience, Feyre knew that backstage in the middle of a show was a busy place, so she crept up to the front of the house and hoped she could find an empty seat.

As she passed one of the private boxes, a familiar voice drifted through the open door. Feyre did her best to ignore the way her heart gave a traitorous little flip at the sound.

"Mor, are you positive that your contacts at the food bank will be prepared for the increased demand?" Rhys was saying.

That was…odd. Whatever this was about, he sounded deadly serious, not at all like a person who was out to enjoy a night at the theater. Feyre froze and strained to listen for Mor's reply, telling herself that obviously the matter was something of political importance if more people in Velaris were suddenly going to need assistance.

Yes, definitely that and not just her own inherent nosiness.

But Mor's reply never came. And neither did the chance to fade back into the shadows. When Rhys's voice drifted out from the open door again, his purr was unmistakably aimed at her. "Hello Feyre darling.

If he wasn't accusing her of anything, Feyre certainly wasn't about to apologize. "Twice in one day. Think it's fate?" she said evenly, letting her voice carry to him.

He materialized in front of her, leaning against the doorframe. At some point since that morning, he'd changed into a formal black tunic embroidered with silver swirls. Feyre found herself wondering idly if the design matched the Illyrian tattoos she'd never seen for herself—the Herald ran plenty of headlines about Rhys in compromising positions, but tragically, a picture of him completely shirtless had never made the front page.

But of course, Feyre was only thinking about that because the plunging neckline he'd worn last Starfall had sold out papers in record time.

"If it is, then I'm the luckiest male in the world." Something in Rhys's smile was just a bit too knowing. Feyre didn't like it.

But still, there was something comfortingly familiar about hearing more of his teasing. "It's nice to see you, too."

His voice floated into her head, which nearly made her jump out of her skin. Rhys had never used his daemati abilities on her before. You shouldn't be out here, not with the police still after you. The box is secluded enough to hide, and there's an extra seat. Join me.

For a long moment, Feyre just stared at him, blinking in surprise. She'd merely stolen a loaf of bread for Lucien in a moment of desperation when he'd spent several days too sick to work and her own earnings hadn't been enough to support them both. Avoiding arrest by fading into darkness hardly made her a notorious criminal, not when any other shadow-wraith could call upon the same abilities.

But Rhys knew. And Feyre couldn't fathom who might have told him or why he'd care. She didn't trust it. "You'll want something in return, won't you?"

"I might." He gave her another one of those annoying feline smiles. She scowled back.

"Fine. What do you want?"

"Draw something for me on the blank newsprint in your bag, and we'll call it even."

Feyre had never heard him sound so earnest, and his violet eyes had gone soft in a way she'd never seen from him before, either. She couldn't shake the feeling she was missing something. "I— What? Why would you want that?"

"My walls are looking a bit bare. What better way to fix that than with something you made?"

More teasing, then. They were back on familiar ground, and Feyre would have thrown a punch—mocking her art was a low blow—if Rhys hadn't praised her work before. When they'd met, she'd been sketching the skyline over the Sidra on a spare bit of newsprint leftover at the end of the day. He'd asked if she was selling newspapers to pay for art school, and she'd laughed in his face.

But after that, he'd returned to buy the paper from her every morning without fail.

"Alright. It's a bargain."

Magic crackled in the air as the bargain tattoo appeared on Feyre's arm, a swirling design that covered everything from the elbow to the fingertips of her left hand. She'd spent her whole life in the Night Court; she knew what bargain tattoos were. But by the Cauldron was this one elaborate. And beautiful.

Rhys was looking at her as if he could hear her thoughts. Feyre frantically double-checked that her shields were up—it was so easy to forget she was in the company of a daemati. "You have an artist's eye. I hope it's up to your standards."

"Bargains go both ways. Where's yours?"

"If you're that curious, undress me and find out."

It must be exhausting, Feyre supposed, to go through life unable to stop flirting for more than a few minutes at a time. But then again, Rhysand never looked tired. "Will you manage to keep quiet during the show? Or am I going to hear you blathering on about how my eyes are like stars the entire time?"

"That's something else you'll have to find out for yourself."

Before Feyre could get another word in, he took her hand and tugged her into the box. The door snicked shut behind her on a night-kissed wind.

A blonde female Feyre only recognized from newspaper photos turned and smiled at them. Morrigan, Feyre realized. She'd heard Rhys use his cousin's name, but after shouting so many headlines about her, Feyre was still caught off-guard by the sight of the Morrigan in the flesh.

"You must be Feyre Archeron. I'm Morrigan, but call me Mor. It's so nice to finally meet you," she was saying, holding out a hand for Feyre to shake.

"Oh. Um. Hello," Feyre said. There was an awkward beat of silence as she tugged her hand—which was still in Rhys's—back so she could shake Morrigan's. "Nice to meet you, too."

There was more uncomfortable silence as Rhys and Mor just stared at each other, and several different expressions cycled across their faces in quick succession. At first, Feyre didn't know what to make of it. But then she realized they must have been speaking about something mind-to-mind. Whatever the topic was, it seemed…contentious.

And that had almost distracted her enough not to notice that Mor had said nice to finally meet her. Feyre couldn't imagine who could possibly have been speaking about her to Mor so frequently.

Rhys indicated for her to sit, and Feyre did. He was right about the box being secluded; the seats were set far enough back that she'd be difficult to spot if someone came looking for her. It put her at ease.

"Do you need something to write with?" he asked, dropping into the seat next to her and stretching his long legs out in front of him.

Feyre always carried a pencil. She reached up under her cap and pulled it out of the messy bun it had been keeping in place all day. Her hair—light brown now that she was fully corporeal—tumbled down her shoulders. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Rhys staring at her, mouth slightly parted.

Before he had an opportunity to say something cutting, Feyre said, "You left a loophole, you know. I could just draw a line on the paper, and I'd keep my half of the bargain."

He shrugged. "Maybe I just wanted to see what you'd do."

Feyre had no idea what to say to that. But at that moment, the lights dimmed, and Mor took a seat on Rhys's other side. Musicians began to play the opening notes of the entr'acte. Feyre tuned it out; she'd heard it enough times when she'd been painting sets during rehearsals.

The bigger question was what she was going to draw for Rhys. As a shadow-wraith, she could see perfectly in the dark theater, so there was nothing stopping her from spending the next hour perfecting a sketch. And uninterrupted time to work on her art was vanishingly rare.

But still, it was Rhys, so the temptation to draw the outline of a cock just to spite him was strong.

Even stronger, though, was the urge to sketch his face. Rhysand was without a doubt the most beautiful male Feyre had ever seen, and since the day they'd met, she'd been eager to try her hand at capturing his strangely sensual-yet-swaggering demeanor on canvas. But a prince could have his portrait done by any artist he liked, and Feyre doubted that he'd agree if he asked him to model for her.

So even though it was against her better instincts to do something that might inflate his ego, Feyre wanted to sketch a portrait of Rhys. To her surprise, he kept quiet and still, actually paying attention to the show.

It was the longest Feyre had ever seen him go without smirking. His features were soft, and she did her best to capture that instead of the smug mask he presented to the world. Something told her moments where he looked this unguarded were rare.

She finished just as the show ended and the lights brightened again. Before Rhys could see what she'd drawn, Feyre rolled up the portrait and held it out for him with a pointed look, daring him to unroll it and examine it in front of her. The bargain tattoo on her hand faded.

Wisely, he merely thanked her and tucked it into a pocket dimension.

"Feyre, the sets you painted look like dreamscapes," Mor said, brown eyes bright. If Feyre wasn't mistaken, that was admiration.

Feyre shrugged. "The actors just needed something pretty to stand in front of while they sing."

Mor locked eyes with Rhysand again, probably having another wordless conversation. Feyre took it as her cue to leave—she could easily slip into the crowd headed for the exit, then find Ressina backstage. But Mor let out a decidedly unladylike snort, squeezed Rhys's shoulder, and winnowed away.

Rhys looked at her, and something in his eyes pinned Feyre to the spot. "Will you allow me to walk you home?" he said.

***

Rhys wasn't entirely sure he was breathing as he waited for Feyre to answer. Not that it was the point, but he wasn't sure his already-bruised ego would survive slinking back to the House of Wind alone after he'd just urged Mor to leave him alone with his mate.

"Why?" Feyre said. At least it wasn't a no.

He slid his hands into his pockets, hoping he looked nonchalant. "Because I'd like to see you get home safely, and no one will bother you if you're with me."

She nodded once. "Alright."

"I can meet you at the stage door once you've gotten your coat."

"I— I don't have one."

He was pulling his own off the back of his chair and wrapping it around her shoulders before he knew what he was doing. This late in the year, Velaris was cold after dark. And perhaps it was reckless, but the risk of a few headlines about Feyre taking him home was worth making sure she didn't freeze.

At least she'd put her arms through the sleeves while she'd scowled at him, though.

Rhys looped his arm through hers and winnowed them outside to the street. Without thinking about it, he started walking towards the tenement she shared with far too many newsies crammed into the small space. Hopefully she wouldn't ask why he knew exactly where it was.

For a while, they said nothing, but to Rhys's immense pleasure, Feyre didn't pull away from him. The silence was comfortable, and for a moment, Rhys just let himself imagine that they were walking home at the end of a proper night out.

But he'd gone to Ressina's in hopes of finding Feyre there for a reason, so Rhys broke the silence. "In a turn of events, I have news for you this evening."

"Do you?" Feyre raised her brows expectantly.

"Starting tomorrow, the owners of Velaris's newspapers will increase the price they charge the newsies. Sixty cents per hundred."

Her hand tightened on his arm as Feyre's entire body went stuff. Their mating bond was still unaccepted—and therefore, faint—but Feyre's anger surged down it anyway. The force of it was nearly enough to knock him off his feet.

When Feyre spoke again, her voice was low and deadly. "Who told you?"

"I was there when they petitioned my father for assistance today. He said no, so they moved on to another strategy."

"And why are you telling me?"

"Because if this develops the way I anticipate it will, then I want to make sure you're the first to know that I won't be buying the paper from a scab. I'd publicly support a strike."

Feyre went quiet, and to keep himself from succumbing to the temptation to read her thoughts, Rhys forced himself to focus on the lights reflected on the river in the distance. Her fingers on his arm never relaxed.

"We don't have a union," she said eventually.

"Then consider this a head start to remedy that." If anyone could form one in a matter of hours, it was Velaris's High Lady. Rhys was sure of it.

"Thank you."

They lapsed back into silence again. Even if Rhys weren't a daemati, he'd be able to see the wheels turning in her head, just from the determined set of her chin and the way a muscle ticked in her jaw. He wasn't sure he'd ever seen a more beautiful sight.

All too soon, they arrived at Feyre's stoop. Before Rhys had a chance to insist she keep the coat, she shrugged it off and handed it to him. "I'm not a charity case," she said, as if she could hear his thoughts.

Rhys took the coat but didn't slip it back on. "I know better than to suggest you are."

"Good." Despite the cold, Feyre made no move to step inside. Rhys was torn between urging her to go warm up and wishing that she'd stay out here with him forever. Something in her face softened, and Rhys could almost fool himself into believing she'd let him kiss her goodnight after a night at the theater as he courted her properly.

But Feyre, he reminded himself, didn't want him like that.

Rhys started to say goodbye, but Feyre added, a bit more softly, "For what it's worth, you're going to be one hell of a High Lord one day, Rhys."

Maybe Rhys didn't have Feyre Archeron's heart, but he did have her respect. And maybe that mattered more.

"My father's not a dreamer, and the Night Court suffers for it. Good luck tomorrow."

Rhys refused to waste any more of her time; unable to resist preening for her just a bit, he stretched his wings out wide, then launched himself into the air to return to the House of Wind.

When Feyre had shown up outside the box, he hadn't been able to avoid telling Mor exactly who she was to him. And now, Rhys could practically feel his cousin's mind vibrating with curiosity as he reached for it. She reassured him—not for the first time that day—that Velaris's charities were prepared to handle an influx of newsies in need, and Rhys pointedly ignored his cousin's request for updates on what she'd termed the moonlit stroll with his mate.

Alone in his bedroom with the door firmly locked behind him, Rhys finally pulled the newsprint out of the pocket dimension. And if Feyre's art hadn't been so precious, he would have dropped it in shock.

She'd sketched him. There was something soft about Feyre's portrait that had been missing from the stiff, official ones he'd sat through with his family. It gave Rhys the strangest feeling that Feyre had seen something soul-deep within him and recreated it with a pencil on a spare bit of newsprint.

If the next day weren't likely to be long and uncertain, he would have spent half the night staring at it.

When he woke early the next morning, Rhys could still feel Feyre's anger simmering in the back of his mind. He resisted the urge to tug on the bond for reassurance she was alright—the last thing he needed was for her to feel the pull just behind her ribs and realize what it meant. So all he did was keep alert as he dressed, ate, and made his way to his father's study.

And as if on cue, when the High Lord's daily briefing was barely through, Pulitzer himself burst into the study. Darkness swirled around Rhys's father, dimming the room, a clear warning that the interruption was unwelcome.

"My apologies, High Lord, but it's urgent," Pulitzer said, bowing politely.

"What, exactly, is urgent?" Rhys's father snapped.

"The newsies of Velaris are forming a union. They intend to strike, and I'm here on behalf of the city's newspaper owners to ask for your support with breaking the strike."

Rhys stilled. For a long moment, the study went silent. The slight deepening of his father's frown—and the fact that a tendril of darkness hadn't already thrown Pulitzer from the room—made it clear enough that the High Lord was weighing his options.

"Who's their leader?" Rhys said, though he suspected he already knew the answer.

"An upstart shadow-wraith named Feyre Archeron. They call her the High Lady," Pulitzer said with a sneer.

Rhys felt a warm glow of pride—despite the darkness that rolled off his father in waves. The High Lord jealously guarded his power, and it seemed that even a poor lesser-fae female couldn't get away with a nickname he took as a threat or a jibe.

"You can't possibly—" Rhys said.

The High Lord cut him off. "What sort of support?"

"Police, if you can spare them," Pulitzer said.

Rhys stood so quickly, he nearly knocked over his chair. "There is no reason at all this needs to escalate to violence."

"As my heir," the High Lord said coldly, "you need to learn that in situations like this, it's necessary. If we make an example of the newsies, the rest of Velaris will hesitate to disturb the peace going forward. Pulitzer, you have all the crown's resources you need."

Pulitzer was bowing again and thanking the High Lord for his support, but Rhys hardly noticed. He was already storming off towards the Rainbow.

[mc-lukanette]

Luka laughed into the phone. "Marinette, I'm sure you don't need lessons anymore. Your playing already sounds amazing."

"You say that all the time," she huffed, Luka grinning as he imagined the pout on the other end of the line. "Besides, it'll—it'll be different! We'll be in a real place you'd play music instead of your room, so you can judge my playing fairly!"

"Mhm~"

"And I already called Penny so she could get it! There'll be some extra time too if you want to call the others to practice—!"

"You don't have to try to convince me," he cut in, leaning back on his bed casually. "I'm looking forward to it."

"It? How—?!" She paused, then let out a sheepish giggle. "Right, our lesson. Gotcha. See you later!"

She hung up before he could reply. Still, he said a fond, "See you," into his phone even though she couldn't have heard it. As he took it away from his ear, he navigated to his gallery and tapped on the picture that Juleka had taken of Marinette's first guitar lesson with him.

More specifically, it was a screenshot he'd taken of Marinette's post online that contained said picture. He already adored the picture itself - even if he'd been a fool to be staring at Marinette while a camera was being pointed at him, trapping his love-struck face into eternal replay - but Marinette's caption just made it better.

Starting guitar lessons today courtesy of Luka! 🥰🎶

He grinned wider, the heart face in particular warming him. Regardless of how Marinette saw him romantically, she clearly thought highly of him and that was enough.

She was good - really good - at guitar, just like he knew she'd be. She listened to him with every lesson, asked politely for feedback, and was willing to admit when there was something she didn't understand.

The only tragedy that came with seeing her get better was knowing that their lessons would get shorter and eventually come to an end altogether. Luka vividly recalled Marinette asking Juleka to take a picture of her first lesson to post online, then muttering about how glad she was that pictures didn't capture the sound of her awful playing.

He honestly didn't think she sounded that bad for her first time, but he might've been too focused on the song she played without need of a guitar.

——

Eventually, Luka arrived at the TV studio, trying not to smirk too wide at the guards who now had to let him in. The ride up the elevator felt long compared to what he expected, but he knew he was impatient when it came to Marinette.

Even if it was as simple as a guitar lesson, he loved spending time with her.

He entered the room slowly, a mix of positive and negative memories rushing back to him at the mere sight: the designs and music in their video getting stolen, getting mocked by Bob Roth and XY, Marinette being threatened, and finally getting the justice they deserved that let Kitty Section play on live TV.

In the center of all of it was Marinette, who he saw sat down on the stage they'd played while holding a guitar - his guitar - in her lap. It was technically something he let her borrow, but he also had no intention of asking for it back. After all, he had two black-and-white guitars, not one. Both had the same base, but the neck design was different for them. The one he gave to Marinette continued the black-and-white theme with a monochrome neck, whereas the guitar he used for himself had a wooden one.

Because there was so little difference between them, it made it easy to instruct Marinette on where her fingers should go, especially when he could either guide her hands or use himself as an example. She'd always appreciated the ease of it.

Seeing her cradling it like she was, despite already having it for so long, made him unreasonably happy.

"Hey, Marinette," he greeted.

She made eye contact with him, her shoulders relaxing as he approached. Taking one hand off the guitar to wave, she greeted him back with a smile.

He took his guitar case off, then sat down next to her and set it beside him. He turned away from her to undo the latch keeping the case shut, but her hand caught his arm before he could.

"Wait."

Glancing at her, he raised a brow. Her face seemed oddly serious all of a sudden, but he couldn't imagine why she wouldn't want him to take his guitar out.

"I, ah..." She pulled her hand back, fingertips rubbing against her thumb self-consciously. "I wanted you to listen to something before our lesson?"

He perked up. "You wrote something?"

It hadn't been his intention, but his enthusiasm alleviated her anxiety. She took a breath, sheepishly averting her gaze as she replied, "Um, sort of?"

He leaned towards her with intrigue, watching quietly as she checked, double-checked, and triple-checked the guitar to ensure it was properly tuned. He wouldn't have doubted if she'd also checked it before he arrived.

He was absolutely fascinated. Marinette had already had so many talents and hobbies that he thought she was just picking up guitar for the sake of it or as a tool to get her emotions out, but for her to go and actually write something?

He couldn't wait.

Once Marinette was ready, she closed her eyes and strummed a simply melody. It was a warm-up that Luka had taught her - only drawing him in further - but the moment she was done, the real song began.

It started out slow and even a bit bitter. While she didn't add any lyrics, Luka could feel the emotions in the song: loneliness and a lack of hope. It sounded strangely familiar to him, yet he couldn't place it.

Then, the song picked up, and the familiarity came with it. It didn't take Luka any time to catch it because he'd not just heard it, but played it himself. It wasn't a perfect recreation, but it was the song he'd played for Marinette when they first met.

She'd remembered it all this time.

It took one more change of tune, but that was when it clicked for him: she was playing them. She was playing all of their moments together and how they made her feel, from their slightly shaky beginning to his song for her and everything after that. He swallowed, already overwhelmed.

It all culminated when she got to the day they'd learned their music video had been stolen. He could hear the anger of the realization, the low subtlety as they snuck into the studio together, the fear when Bob Roth threatened her, the shock when he'd gotten akumatized to save her, and finally the tenderness when he'd confessed to her.

It took a lot to put one's feelings into music. It required a sense of vulnerability that Luka genuinely admired in a person: the ability to lay one's feelings bare to someone they trust. He almost wanted to ask Marinette to stop - seeing the visible strain on her face at everything she was trying to play right - but he couldn't bring himself to tarnish her efforts in any form.

Thus, he kept listening, almost forgetting to breathe in his awe of her.

There had always been something he could hear in the background of her song whenever he was with her, but he hadn't been sure of it. He thought he may've been fooling himself or was simply mishearing, yet now Marinette was playing it right in front of him as if to make sure he heard.

Love. She was playing not just their experiences together, but her feelings for him. She hadn't fallen as hard as he had when they met, meaning that those feelings started small and only grew over time. He hadn't noticed or at least tried not to, unwilling to be wrong despite his intuition so often being correct.

This was her way of confessing, her way of saying that she cherished their time together, that he was important to her, and that she was even sorry for taking as long as she did for it all to come together. Luka couldn't imagine a single thing that she needed to be sorry for, and certainly not when she was making him feel such a way. His heart was pounding like it wanted to escape his chest and he could barely sit still.

Eventually, the song came to an end, Marinette's face flushed red as she rested her arms on the guitar. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, she explained shyly, "Y-you did it in words, so I thought... I thought I should do it in your language." Turning to him, eyes glistening with emotion, she added, "I know I'm still learning, but I couldn't wait! I wanted you to know, and if I waited too long, I was afraid you'd—mmphf—"

He kissed her. He'd never been the one to just act, but his guitar was still in his case and he needed her to know that he still reciprocated regardless of how much time had passed. He'd even scooted closer to be within distance to kiss her, and the guitar that she'd used to play such beautiful music was suddenly a nuisance, keeping him from showing his full affection.

Marinette, either reading his mind or being naturally in sync with him, used a hand to move it off her lap and to the side opposite of him. Legs free to move, she turned fully towards him and grabbed his jacket to pull him closer, Luka moving in response to cup her face with both hands.

He'd already been breathless from her performance, but he held the contact as long as he could, no other thought in his head beyond showing her that she was loved.

When they both pulled back, it was only a few inches away from each other. Luka simply had no intent to get any further away than necessary and Marinette still had a firm grip on him.

They made some attempts to speak, opening their mouths a few times to form words, but nothing came out. He thought that perhaps she'd seen him opening his mouth and stopped herself, but the timing was all off. They were both lost for words that they didn't need anyway.

A gentle yet insistent tug was all he needed to kiss her again, thoughts of inviting the rest of Kitty Section there having been abandoned long ago.