#ELEGANT FAUX BUN

[wilted3sunflowers]

White Pearl: SOLD Is she just as perfect as all of white's court is supposed to be?

Pink Pearl: Sold Is that smile innocent or malicious?

Blue Pearl: SOLD Professional and Elegant.

Yellow pearl: Sold A radiant Pearl but maybe she shines too bright. First come first serve I take payment over paypal

Design Notes: Obviously these pearls are all based to be one under each court and some leaning in for the court type more than others. I wanted them all to feature the same pattern a you can see on the main article of clothing. For Pink Pearl she's obviously modeled after a flower and a jester much how pink diamond herself was. I even took her to lean into a more devious and malicious side similar to eyeball and past pink diamond's actions could be. even her arms could be read as small stalks and little pollen balls from an upside down flower. The legwarmers helped stop with the full blank space on the bottom half and she gets to be the only one with a separate patterned article instead of just a bulk piece of cloth. Also another thing to note is the midrise bottoms she wears to also match with white pearl's high rise pants.

White Pearl was the first on designed for her silhouette and the hardest part being figuring out her hair- that which ended up being shaped after i got the other pearls designs down further so she ended up with two buns as a compliment to blue having one bun. Last minute in the designing process I added White to have sunglasses both for the nod to 'cool white diamond' court but also to contrast the 'brilliant shine' of yellow as if she's the sun so that those two can mirror while pink and blue have cheek details together

Originally blue pearl was not going to have a cold shoulder open much less a bow in the back. However it got trimmed down so that there will be more visual similarities to White Pearl's cold shoulder and a bow in the back like almost faux shoulder pads in a silhouette look. In the end she kind of ended up looking the most different than what I originally intended for her. Yellow Pearl is the only one of the four to have technically three different patterns going on for her. One the main pattern of course, then three stripes on her shirt and then a lattice of the combined pant and boots of a gradient. Showing she wants a lot, and likely is doing too much. Fitting a bit well into the militaristic but still seeming like a too ornate look, she has metal cuffs- there small blunt spikes and also on the back of her heels instead of long and sharper more piercing type of spikes. No matter what though, she carries the signia of the diamonds intensely. Another thing to note is how blue pearl has a mini dress and that yellow pearl has low rise pants that both almost line up in where they stop

[dauntingsorrow]

book wip: by the fireplace

topics: random scene from my book, descriptions, greek references? word count: 360

And then I was no longer myself, but merely the invisible witness of a scene that happened before me. The woman whom I had loved sat in a living room that looked drastically different from the one I knew. Cocoa skin dimly lit by the roaring flames of the fire, chestnut face on which danced orange hues. Her unruly hair were held in the same, usual loose bun, wild strands of ebony framing her serious visage. Pearly earrings ornamented her ears, and a loose golden chain hung around her neck, descending on her exposed collarbones and disappearing beneath her light dress. 

Her burgundy lips were tightly shut, and although her posture was straight and poised, and her inky eyes revealed pure fierceness and ferocity, the occasional squeeze of her hands gave away some sort of nervousness. She was of small frame, delicate body floating in a pool of white silk, dainty hands solidly intertwined. In that moment she looked like a being of pureness, an angel on earth, an Astrea if you will, blessed by the beauty of Aphrodite and graced by the fearlessness of Athena. Her gaze unwavering, it is only when following her line of sight that I noticed a thing that made my heart drop. 

In the midst of where the light barely reached, peering out of the dark like a grim figure was a man I could only describe as darkness. 

An ivory profile I could recognise everywhere for it resembled my own. A sharp nose on which hung loose spectacles, gaunt cheeks reddened by the cold and carmine lips turned into a severe scowl. His imposing form made hers appear ridiculously small, and unlike her who was draped into the flames of light, sat like an elegant swan, he was shrouded in the cold of night and comfort of black, legs spread like a threatening predator. 

Dour face framed by undone obsidian hair that tediously fell over his shoulders, slender hands flatly pressed against the table and although in his act of faux-nonchalance he tried, he could not conceal the discontentment that adorned his features nor the vexation that steered in his cold steely eyes.

[noisycowboyglitter]

Butterfly Heart Tattoo: Your Guide to Fairycore and Y2K Grunge Fashion

The Butterfly Heart Tattoo Fairycore Y2k Grunge Egirl Aesthetic blends multiple style elements into a unique and captivating look. This eclectic aesthetic combines the whimsical charm of fairycore, the nostalgic vibes of Y2K fashion, the edgy appeal of grunge, and the digital-age flair of egirl culture.

Buy now:19.95$

Central to this style is the butterfly heart tattoo motif, often featuring a heart intertwined with or surrounded by butterfly wings. This design symbolizes transformation, freedom, and love, resonating with the aesthetic's theme of personal expression and growth.

Key elements of this look include:

Clothing: Mesh tops, crop tanks, pleated mini skirts, oversized hoodies, and cargo pants.

Colors: Pastel pinks and blues mixed with darker grunge tones like black and deep purples.

Accessories: Chunky platform boots, butterfly hair clips, chokers, and layered necklaces.

Makeup: Glossy lips, winged eyeliner, glitter accents, and faux freckles.

Hair: Often dyed in bright or pastel colors, with space buns or messy updos.

This aesthetic embraces a DIY spirit, encouraging customization of clothes with patches, safety pins, or hand-drawn designs. It also incorporates digital elements like pixel art and glitchy effects in social media content.

Buy now

The style appeals to those who enjoy mixing contrasting elements, blending the soft and ethereal with the edgy and bold. It's a visual representation of the complex, multifaceted nature of modern youth culture and self-expression.

Butterfly Keepsakes are cherished mementos that capture the delicate beauty and symbolism of butterflies. These treasured items come in various forms, offering lasting reminders of special moments or loved ones. Popular options include delicate butterfly-themed jewelry, such as lockets or charm bracelets, often incorporating birthstones or engravings for personalization.

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Decorative keepsake boxes adorned with butterfly motifs provide elegant storage for small treasures. For a unique touch, some keepsakes feature preserved real butterflies ethically sourced and encased in glass or resin.

Butterfly-themed photo frames, ornaments, or sun catchers make thoughtful gifts to commemorate special occasions. For a more personal touch, handcrafted items like butterfly-shaped dreamcatchers or pressed flower art with butterfly accents create one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

Buy now

These items not only serve as beautiful decorations but also symbolize transformation, hope, and the fleeting nature of life's precious moments.

[fashionitforward]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: New Two Faux Pearl Beaded Hair Bobby Pins - Decorative for Wedding and Gift Box.

[onsiteblinds]

Enhance Your Space with Venetian Blinds: Spotlight on Style and Functionality

In the realm of interior design, every detail matters. From the color of the walls to the choice of furniture, each element contributes to the overall ambiance of a room. When it comes to window treatments, Venetian blinds stand out as a timeless and versatile option that combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. Let's shine a spotlight on why Venetian blinds are an excellent choice for enhancing your living or working space.

Classic Elegance with Modern Appeal

Venetian blinds have been a staple in homes and offices for decades, thanks to their classic yet contemporary look. Their sleek, horizontal slats offer a clean and sophisticated appearance that complements any interior style, whether it's minimalist modern or cozy traditional. Available in a variety of materials such as wood, aluminum, and faux wood, Venetian blinds can be customized to match the decor of any room seamlessly.

Control Your Light and Privacy

One of the standout features of Venetian blinds is their ability to provide precise control over light and privacy. By simply adjusting the angle of the slats, you can effortlessly regulate the amount of sunlight entering your space. This flexibility allows you to create the perfect ambiance throughout the day, whether you prefer a bright and airy atmosphere or a cozy, dimly lit environment. Additionally, when fully closed, Venetian blinds offer excellent privacy, making them ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices.

Durable and Easy to Maintain

Durability is another key advantage of Venetian blinds. Constructed from sturdy materials, such as aluminum or high-quality wood, these blinds are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Unlike fabric curtains that may require frequent washing or dry cleaning, Venetian blinds are easy to maintain with regular dusting or occasional wiping with a damp cloth. This makes them a practical choice for busy households or commercial spaces where low maintenance is a priority.

Versatility in Design and Function

Whether you're outfitting a cozy apartment or a spacious office suite, Venetian blinds offer unmatched versatility. Available in a range of colors, finishes, and slat sizes, they can be customized to complement any window size or shape. For larger windows or sliding glass doors, vertical Venetian blinds provide a stylish solution that coordinates seamlessly with their horizontal counterparts.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Space with Venetian Blinds

In conclusion, Venetian blinds are more than just window coverings—they are a statement of style and functionality. Whether you're aiming to enhance the aesthetics of your home or improve the productivity of your workspace, Venetian blinds offer a timeless solution that combines elegance with practicality. With their ability to control light, ensure privacy, and withstand the test of time, Venetian blinds are a worthwhile investment that will continue to enhance your living or working environment for years to come.

So, if you're ready to transform your space, consider the timeless appeal and versatility of Venetian blinds. With their ability to effortlessly blend into any decor scheme and provide unparalleled control over light and privacy, Venetian blinds are sure to make a stylish impact in your home or office.

For More Info:-

venetian blinds spotlight

bunnings venetian blinds

[littlegirlsclothing]

👋Even though Halloween 2023 falls on a Tuesday, Mia Belle Girls wants to help you make it all about WEDNESDAY! Whether it's trick-or or just a fun dress-up day, these three distinct Wednesday Addams-inspired costumes will help young girls channel their inner spooky-chic fashionista. Here's a style guide to make the most of these outfits and capture the essence of Wednesday's iconic look and even one that Mommy can share! And there's a special discount waiting for you at the end!🎃

1. Girls Prom Dance Wednesday Addams Inspired Tulle Costume Dress:

The Look: This tiered dress is all about the chic combo of creepy and cute. With a sleek sheer neckline and layered tulle skirt, your little one will stand out in style and look just like her favorite character! Inspired by the recent remake series, the high collar, frilled shoulders and belt make this outfit fun for recreating the famous dance scene!💃

Hair:  To pull of that signature Wednesday look, darker hair is a plus. Style hair into a pinned up-do with bangs. It would be easy to start with pigtails as the base and bin them into buns. Think about grabbing a cosplay wig from us instead of using dyes or sprays on lighter hair.💈

Footwear: Pair the costume with black boots that exude an edgy vibe, like our Chained & Pearled Ankle Boots that perfectly complement the eerie elegance of the dress. Not to mention how great they'll look with the rest of her wardrobe.🥾

Accessories: Keep it simple with minimalistic accessories. Consider adding a dark stockings to complete the ensemble. To really sell the Wednesday Addams illusion, get our hands on our Thing Hand Figurine.🖐️

Makeup: Opt for a pale complexion with subtle dark eyeliner and a slightly paler lip color to maintain the spooky charm. And since it's a dance, be sure to add in a dash oh glitter makeup.💄

2. Mommy & Me Addams Family Inspired Costumes:

The Look: Create a matching mother-daughter duo with your little one, embracing both Wednesday's old school elements and mother Morticia's gothic sophistication. This creepy-chic combo is sure to snag trophies for best dressed at Halloween parties, pageants, trunk-or-treats or neighborhood festivals.👩‍👦

Young Girls: Dress your young girl in this velvety black skater dress with white lace ruffle collar and and cuffs. It's an adorable twist on the iconic outfit warn by the original Wednesday. Pair it with striped socks and vintage loafers for a vintage look that will impress friends and family alike with her incredible style.👧

Mom: Wear the matching velvety soft floor-length dress with lace details, starting just above the knees. This makes sure your super cute shoes don't go unseen and keeps the dress flowy and breathable. A flattering look that enhances your shape while remaining modest.🖤

Accessories: Both can wear dark, elegant accessories like our Women's Gothic Lace Necklace & Earring Set or Women's Pointed Toe Lace Heels for a touch of mystique. Carrying around a sing rose would also help sell the costume!🥀

Makeup: Embrace the elegant yet morbid appeal of Morticia by straightening your hair and painting your nails a brilliant red to complete the fantasy. Maintain a pale complexion and opt for a dark, overstated eyeliner and eye shadow, and a vibrant red lipstick look to capture Morticia's essence.💅

3.Girls Wednesday Addams Inspired Uniform Costume:

The Look: This uniform costume has those once purple Nevermore stripes and strips them of color, since we know Wednesday is allergic to color. A lightweight buttoned blazer with faux pockets and a matching skirt with an elastic waistband for comfy all-day wear. Add a simple white collared shirt underneath, or make it even cuter with our Swiss dot chiffon blouse, as one is not included.🏫

Hair: It's just not Wednesday without those pigtails! Recreate Wednesday's signature side braids for an instantly recognizable effect.🖤

Footwear: Complete the ensemble with sturdy black combat boots that embody the rebellious spirit of the character.🤘

Accessories: A simple black headband or a dark ribbon can be a subtle yet effective accessory. Knee-high black socks and this cool smiley face woven tote that makes a perfect candy bag! If it's a daytime look, add a black umbrella to keep your little one cool and on theme!☂️

Makeup: Stick to minimal makeup with a touch of dark eyeliner and perhaps a slightly smudged lip for a hint of intrigue.🥰

General Tips:

Color Palette: Stick to a monochrome palette of black, white, and gray to capture the Addams family aesthetic. A little will go a long way, so keep it subtle so she's picture-perfect!🖤🤍

Hair: Pigtails, bangs and neat buns are key to achieving Wednesday's signature look. Another wonderful thing about this costume is the ease in the hairstyle. While wigs and extensions are always an option, the darker the hair color, the better!👍

Attitude: Encourage your young one to embrace Wednesday's stillness, long stares, and independent attitude while having fun with the costume. Maybe re-watch the movies and shows to find quotes your cutie can say to help her really feel like the eldest Addams' child.😈

Confidence: The most important accessory is confidence. Remind your young girl that embracing her uniqueness is what makes her truly spooky-chic! We KNOW she's going to look amazing, but it's also important that she's having fun! Encourage her to take pictures, dance, and maybe tell her friends in advance to see if they would like to wear matching outfits. The more the merrier! 👧

🤯Your young girls can confidently channel their inner Wednesday Addams while showcasing a blend of creepy and chic fashion that's perfect for Halloween, parties, or any dress-up occasion. Looking for that little extra something to take your Halloween costume over the top? Be sure to check out our Halloween Accessories or use discount code SPOOKYBLOG for 15% off all Halloween collections.🛒

[hairloveindia]

Protective Styling with Satin: Bun Wraps and Headbands for Curly Hair

Introduction

Curly hair is a beautiful and unique texture, but it also requires a little extra care to keep it healthy and looking its best. One way to achieve this is through protective styling, and satin headbands and bun wraps are perfect accessories to help you achieve stunning looks while taking care of your curly locks. In this blog, we'll explore different protective styles that you can achieve using satin headbands and bun wraps. Whether you want to buy satin headbands online or create these styles with what you already have, we've got you covered.

Why Satin?

Before we delve into the styles, let's talk about why satin is an excellent choice for curly hair. Satin is a smooth, soft fabric that reduces friction, which is essential for curly hair because it's more prone to breakage. It also helps retain moisture, preventing your curls from becoming dry and frizzy. Plus, satin headbands and bun wraps are stylish and versatile accessories that can elevate any look.

Classic Bun Wrap Start with a high or low bun, depending on your preference. Secure your hair with an elastic band and twist it into a bun shape. Then, take a satin bun wrap and wrap it around your bun, securing it in place. This classic style not only looks elegant but also protects your hair from friction and damage.

Half-Up, Half-Down Style For a chic half-up, half-down look, start by parting your hair horizontally, with the top half pulled up and the bottom half left loose. Secure the top section with a satin headband, creating a stylish and protective barrier for your curls. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Faux Crown Braid Create the illusion of a crown braid with a satin headband. Place the headband over your head, positioning it like a tiara. Take small sections of hair from both sides of your head, twist them, and tuck them under the headband. Continue this process all the way around your head, creating a faux crown braid that's both protective and stunning.

Low Ponytail with a Twist Instead of using a regular hair tie, opt for a satin bun wrap to secure your low ponytail. After securing your hair with the wrap, twist the ponytail and secure it with a few bobby pins for added flair. This style keeps your hair sleek and protected while showcasing your curls.

Tips for Protective Styling with Satin

Moisturize: Before styling, apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your curls hydrated. Satin helps retain moisture, making it even more effective.

Choose the Right Accessories: Make sure to buy satin headbands online or from trusted sources to ensure the quality of the material. Avoid accessories with rough edges that may cause snags.

Be Gentle: When securing your hair with satin wraps or headbands, be gentle to avoid tugging or pulling on your curls.

Nighttime Protection: Use a satin pillowcase or satin hair bonnet to protect your curls while you sleep.

Conclusion -

Protective styling with satin headbands and bun wraps is a fantastic way to keep your curly hair healthy and stylish. Whether you're attending a special event or just want a chic everyday look, these styles are versatile and protective. Remember to buy satin headbands online or from reliable sources to ensure the best results, and don't forget to keep your curls moisturized and well-cared for. With these tips and styles, you can flaunt your beautiful curly hair while keeping it safe from damage.

[onlywrittenthings]

Perfect Ginger Hair Look For Winters

As the chilly winter months approach, there's no better time to warm up your style with a stunning ginger hair color. Ginger hair exudes coziness and a touch of fiery elegance, making it an ideal choice for the winter season. Here's how to achieve the perfect ginger hair look and different ways to carry it!

Getting that Gorgeous Ginger Shade

Choose the Right Shade: Ginger hair comes in various shades, from light strawberry blonde to deep, rich copper. Pick a shade that complements your skin tone and personal style.

Ginger Copper Hair Color Jar

Pre-Lightening (if needed): If you have naturally dark hair, you may need to pre-lighten it to achieve a vibrant ginger hue. Consult with a professional colorist to ensure a flawless transition.

Select the Right Hair Dye: Opt for a high-quality hair dye that's specifically designed for red or ginger shades. This ensures a more lasting and true-to-color result.

Follow the Instructions: Read and follow the instructions on the hair dye packaging carefully. This includes doing a patch test to check for allergies and timing the coloring process accurately.

Different Ways to Carry Ginger Hair in Winters

Straight and Sleek: Wear your ginger hair straight and sleek for a polished winter look. This style complements cozy sweaters and classic winter coats.

Curls and Waves: Embrace the warmth of ginger hair with soft curls or waves. This adds a touch of romance to your winter ensemble, making it perfect for date nights or holiday gatherings.

Braids and Updos: Ginger hair can be beautifully showcased in braids, updos, or intricate hairstyles. Try a ginger-hued crown braid or a messy bun for a chic and cozy winter vibe.

Accessorize: Elevate your ginger hair look with winter accessories like chunky scarves, beanies, or headbands. These can add texture and dimension to your style while keeping you warm.

Winter Makeup Palette: Adjust your makeup palette to complement your ginger hair. Earthy tones, warm eyeshadows, and berry lip shades work wonderfully to enhance your winter ginger look.

Statement Outerwear: Let your ginger hair be the focal point by choosing statement outerwear like a bold red coat or a classic camel-colored trench. The contrast will make your hair pop even more.

Faux Fur: Embrace the winter spirit with faux fur accessories or clothing. The luxurious texture pairs beautifully with the warmth of ginger hair.

Warm Lighting: If you're sharing your ginger hair look on social media, choose warm and cozy lighting to capture the essence of your winter style.

Incorporating ginger hair into your winter style is a delightful way to stand out and stay cozy during the colder months. Whether you prefer a classic or bohemian look, ginger hair adds a touch of warmth and vibrancy that's perfect for embracing the winter season in style.

[everafterkeiji]

⎯ 𝐉𝐄𝐀𝐋𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐍𝐒

𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐈𝐍𝐆: Jealous by Nick Jonas

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒: Bonten Executives x gn! reader

𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: slight angst, half fluff

"𝐈 𝐌𝐄𝐀𝐍 𝐍𝐎 𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓, 𝐈𝐓'𝐒 𝐌𝐘 𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐇."

⎯ To be fair, 𝐒𝐀𝐍𝐙𝐔 didn't plan to take you along with him since his hands were already loaded enough with risks—hence the gun in his pocket from time to time. However, it didn't exactly mean you were disregarded of his trust in terms of business, but you play the part too well that it makes him ready a barrel, regardless if anyone else would watch someone drop with a bullet to the head and let the blood pool carry out the venue like the shade of your lips.

"Hm, I think that's business in the making." You bid to their dealer, a hand under your palm with one hand down to the mans watch, eyeing the brand and the price that seemed to have pulled you in, plans of mischief formulating already when you've noticed how he was busied with your darlingness. Yet someone wasn't nearly as entertained as you were that your watch heist was postponed by a certain bartender clad in his pink hair in a bun with his front pieces framing his eyes like usual.

"I believe I've got something on my lips, won't you take it off of me?" Sanzu favors with faux innocence in his suggestive tone as you turned your head his way and eye his lips, only seeing its natural hue without any blotches of dirt so you commented, "There's nothing there. "

"Well then." He insists, a hand to the back of your neck to pull you in, lips coming in contact with his while his other hand swifts over your bare shoulder as he returns the lose strap of your dress to it, mildly smirking at the shiver you felt from his rings that caressed your skin.

Haruchiyo smiles, a cheeky grin with a hidden glare to the dealer but compared to before, his neutral lips were now decorated in his urge to show off his property over you by the tint shade of your lipstick on him.

"You can take it off of me now, darling."

⎯ 𝐊𝐎𝐊𝐎, as far as he's concerned, you were always covered in his name. From the tip of your heel to that shimmer in your golden earrings, it could even reach all the way to your hair being decorated in the latest mark up in it's price of accessories—you can name all the diamonds draped onto your skin yet even if they were born within the brands they carried, Hajime Kokonoi is the name that's etched onto you, regardless the designer. So when they open the box right in front of you and there's that subtle glow in your features from the reflection of the gems, no other view was as satisfying then pulling a millions worth necklace to be sold in return for something more favorable for the gang, an exchange if they could say.

When Kokonoi had brought you in the party, you were already sporting his success in that chosen attire of yours. A lose blazer yet Bonten's trademark was right in the middle of your chest which catches his eyes, joining everyone else in its exposure. The click of your shoes on the floor was a head turner—who knew a step of a foot was as magnetic? Even so, it attracted too many clients from how you reeked of money which alarms your boyfriend.

"Your neck... is decorated in elegance. I think, in behalf of our company, you'd be the perfect match." One of them bribes as if you haven't been told the same thing from other clerks. Hajime eyes you from behind the table, intently watching every move of the person in front of you as you were offered to try it on which irks him. Your hands reach for the back of your necklace only to freeze in your motion when one of them had hands to the clasp and it forms a storm in Koko's mind. "Let me do it." They said but another person interferes once the clasp was undone, cold hands above your chest to catch the multi-million accessory. You looked up, ready to cuss at how close they've gotten however, it wasn't the clerk but Koko himself with a smirk at how you've lifted your face up to him.

"Mind if I?" Smiling at him, Koko places the previous one on the table and snatches the other necklace from the velvet box. "I agree with him, love. You do seem perfect." He compliments, lowering himself to meet your nape as he places a delicate kiss on your skin and adds another peck right on the side of your neck while he proceeds to put it on you. "But to be honest, I've bought you way better things than this." He boasts, making you roll your eyes even if it was a fact. While he finishes locking it, he eyes the diamond coated piece with a chaste kiss from your collarbone up to your cheek with lingering eyes to the buyer followed by soft fingers tracing the shape of it on your neck to rest it afterwards under your chin.

"So, gentlemen, name the price as long something that's mine is certainly not included."

⎯ 𝐓𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐎𝐌𝐈 doesn't get jealous, call it a miracle when it does happen but right at the brink of his exhaustion when he just craves a bit of your attention, that's where he cracks and falls under what we call envy— especially when you're occupied with someone else. Right at the kitchen where he can see you and Rindou preparing for dinner, your boyfriend yawns, hoping that you'd spark up a question of how he was feeling but he was disregarded. He takes it as a hint that you might've left him unnoticed since Rindou assisted you in handing the ingredients so he slumps on the couch, head tilted back just to let out a dragged out exhale as he closes his eyes.

"You tired, darling?" You asked him, which he sighs to now that the second attempt worked so he lets out a short "Yeah." You hummed in return, which he didn't expect since he thought you'd offer him to nap with you. "So much for that. " He mumbles, standing up to remove his coat, realizing that he could just march upstairs to his room and go ahead of you. He shrugs when you were still busy, he figures you'd come to the thought in a while so he goes straight to his bedroom, removing all the heavy coats he's had and his boots leaving him in a white shirt with joggers just to log himself off and sleep. Although, since you've yet to return after the first 20 minutes, he's grown impatient with heavy eyes ready to fall any moment but you're to blame, as he states.

"Oi-" he's cut off when Rindou welcomes him from downstairs in a tanktop, only for you to come beside the Haitani with sweat drenched features as you boyfriend clicks his tongue at the misinterpretation. Akashi then pulls you by the waistband of your shorts, tugging you at a certain corner as he breathes and the familiarity of his usual cigars hit you. "I said I was tired."

"I know, we were just cooking-"

"We're filthy rich. Can't you order something?" He argues while you tilt your head at the strictness in tone and your speculations come alive. "You jealous at Rin?" Rin my ass. He thinks to himself while he smiles inconveniently, grinning at your realization yet internally mocking you for the choice of nickname. The younger brother couldn't careless at the bickering happening in front of him but the peak of his entertainment was hearing his name for the source of the argument.

"Trust me, your time with me can never compare to being with that little shit, baby."

— 𝐑𝐀𝐍 doesn't let it unfold into something serious. He's a Haitani—nothing comes worse than that, not a single soul is that brave to steal you from him, but there is Sanzu Haruchiyo. He doesn't want to worry but your ongoing chatter of interests with the pink haired lad had him sat wide legged on the couch, waiting for you to notice him at some point but the closeness of the other executive was taunting him for no rightful specific reason. He couldn't consider it a proper argument because he didn't wanna seem childish, it was his subordinate afterall.

But with all these unnecessary jokes, Sanzu personally made them to provoke Ran.

"You're fun to be with, Y/N, I'll hand that to you. It makes me want to talk to you more." Haru kids, leaning closer to you while you just finished off your laugh from the previous memory, not too quick to realize how he's gotten too comfortable.

"I'm sure you've talked enough." Ran comments on the side, a hand partly covering his mouth out of annoyance that was masked with a playful tone. "Oh no, I think we could still chat up about a lot of things."

"Well whatever, have fun." The oldest dropped the conversation as the other laughs that he's won while you turned to your boyfriend, crossing arms to your chest. "Ran, you can join us y'know."

"I wouldn't want to disturb." He adds out of pettiness which causes Sanzu to sling an arm around you to enhance the level of impatient your boyfriend was having. You were aware that he'd pull actions like that around the Haitani for fun but you never took it to reality at how Ran could easily be affected by it. You were sure something had happened beforehand that ticked him off in the process and that Sanzu might've been the trigger but there was no way that he could've been this explosive on a normal basis.

"Sanzu, quit it." You mumbled while he hushes his own lips but before he could speak up, Ran covers Haruchiyo's lips only to smile at you and kiss you in return with a hand behind your ear down to your waist while he continues on to push Sanzu away. Ran sits beside you, an arm now around you as he pulls harder after a while of letting his lips tell how much he's been too irritated to not enjoy the kiss.

"Mhm, I finally got you to shut up and focus on me, angel."

— 𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐎𝐔 is stubborn. What's there to admit? What's a lowlife worth paying attention for when you're his for sure? For starters it's probably because Koko got too handsy at you when you got ready for another fancy negotiation ball. Corrupt governments weren't that new to hosting parties to mask their intentions with multiple dealerships within the night so Takashi had recommended the rest of the executives follow through regardless if they had no ties to the situation. When Koko had assured everyone of their attires, you were in separate rooms with him instead of your boyfriend because you had trouble in fitting in.

"You're gonna rip it, quit moving Y/N." Hajime insists while you sigh, relaxing your body while he helps you tie the piece from behind. The other room is nearly as quiet when the Haitani brothers were dressing up on their own but it's considered as temporary especially when Ran brings up you and Rindou being separated. "Thought you guys would've been together. It's weird."

"No it's not. Koko's just helping Y/N." Rin assures him, mostly for himself if he wanted to admit. "So Y/N could be naked with him?" Ran adds, earning his little brother to tighten the hold on his tie. "Fuck off. Y/N's already wearing it when they got to the other room. Stop fucking around." He rambled out of frustration while the other only responds with a chuckle with a soft nudge to his side.

"Lot's of things can happen."

Asshole. Rindou thinks, shoving his brother away from him just to hope the thought goes the same way. He shouldn't falter under shitty jokes—you'd never do that, he swears it but has he always been sure about Koko? He's never seen enough signs to fall for it or had he been missing dozens of clues as to why you specifically chose the lad to help you? Well fuck. He grits his teeth, running a hand to his hair. He leaves his buttons midway to his chest undone yet the suspenders were tight on his body with the lose tie hanging from his neck out of his temperature rising from the heat of the thought. Rindou then storms out of the room he was in, marching into where you were to briskly manner to see Koko looking too close at the side of your neck.

"Yeah, I told you. You're not overdoing the perfume, if I haven't told you where to place it that is." Hajime scolds you, closing the bottle as he levels the tux over his shoulder, glancing at Rindou before leaving. Your boyfriend scoffs, a scowl forming on his face as he walks toward you with heavy footsteps from the scene he had gotten himself into. If not for Koko mentioning what happened, he would've pounced on your so called fashion partner.

He sees how unmoved you are, no specks of marks or hints of whatever trace Koko had to leave on you so he claims it as a go, but that firey sensation hasn't dragged out when he imagines how someone else would love you like him— especially not a comrade of his.

Rindou slings you his tie, the two ends over your shoulders while you eye him of the odd movement but he harshly pulls you in by the use of the clothing as your eyes widen. "Rin? What's happening, babe?" He chuckles, orbs down to your outfit to your face, loving the distance he's shortened while he places a kiss to your jaw, something so short and teasing because he's too tense to continue.

"Nothing's wrong, pretty. I just had to make sure no one's holding you down like I do."

— 𝐊𝐀𝐊𝐔𝐂𝐇𝐎 is a lot like Takeomi. Nothing bothers him to the point that it could lead to an outburst because he deeply trusts you but it still bothers him that even if his time was meant to be for you two, he still doesn't get the full circle of it—he always has to share it with his work or you're doing something else on your own. He respects it like he's got a choice to complain anyway but it affects him in a way that it does build up and he can't hide it anymore.

"Let's go to sleep, dear." He mumbles behind you, his chin on your shoulder while your hands rake to his hair as he hums in appreciation. "How was your day, honey? You want me to run the bath so we can relax?" You said turning around, holding his face in your hands. "The usual, babe. What about you?" The little smile on your face was good enough for him to know that at least you weren't in the same situation as he was in so he pulls you closer to listen in. "I had a really good day."

"That's nice to hea-"

"With Ran."

"Ha?" He paused midway into the conversation knowing the Haitani wasn't supposed to have a day off unlike you who wasn't assigned for anything. "What did he do?" Kakucho proceeded to ask, finding the pairing quite odd since he genuinely expected Ran wasn't at the headquarters. "Well he said the meeting was postponed and he just rambled on about random things but he was pretty funny about it." You said chuckling at the end, remembering a few of his previous jokes while your boyfriend subtly drops his expression in order to appear that he didn't mind. To be fair, he liked that Ran was your company so he sighs instead.

"I'm glad to hear you're doing okay, baby. Let's go take a bath." He suggested and you nodded while he removes his coat as you got to the bathroom. He steps out of the room with his pants on without the top, a towel in his hand as he plops down the shoes outside the room knowing it was too covered in dirt.

"Oi, Kaku-chan, you're home. Where's Y/N by the way?" Ran greets, leaning on the door while Kakucho raises an eyebrow. "They're in the bathroom. You need something?"

"Tell Y/N to drop by some time again, I have other shit to tell them." Ran chuckles, entering his room again while your boyfriend stares absentmindedly for a second before he shut the door after he entered again just to be greeted by you. "I heard my name. Was that Ran? You were away for a second so I thought you went outside."

Ran. Ran. Ran. He repeats in his mind making him snicker, running a hand through his hair as you wrapped your arms around his neck when you noticed how bothered he was. "Kaku? Is everything-"

"For a second I thought you forgot about my name, darling." He says, shifting you both while your back hits the door with one of his arms extended out beside your head yet stern eyes were down to you as your heart freezes. "What are you saying, love?"

"Do I have to remind you whose name makes you feel like this?"

"Like what, Kakucho?" At the upward tug of his lips as he lowers his head to meet you better and the way his hand on your waist to pull you to him while he presses his toned body to yours—well the pant of your breath was a clear answer already so he spoke,

"Like that."

— 𝐌𝐈𝐊𝐄𝐘 doesn't need you, or so he thinks. There's no value in looking forward to feeling like he has competition. No one wants to step up anyway, it's Mikey they'll be facing—no one wants to die that early. One look from him is enough to stop any other pestering from other men towards you. He had every bit of comfort that you were truly his but from time to time, he does question if he was the right boyfriend. He could surrender to the fact that he definitely wasn't the ideal but to see Kakucho living as the person he wishes he could be for you is displeasing because he knows he can't reach that.

"Y/N, I can't have you doing all that. I'll half the work, I know the schedules better than you." Kakucho jokes as you slid the paper on his table while his hand falls to your back. "Go rest up or something. You've done enough." he says, patting you lightly while you nodded followed by a yawn and Mikey watched as you rest your head on Kakucho's desk. "I want to sleep." you mumbled. His right hand man looks at the window, standing near it just to gaze at the night while Mikey awaits at the door.

"Yeah, same. We should go."

"Well, I might stay for a while and finish all of these, I'll get help from Koko if I need to."

"No, you're not staying. Go to sleep already, Y/N." Kakucho argues as you rose, stretching while you leaned back on the seat. "It's just a few more-"

"You need to rest. " he sighs, a soft smile forming back to you while he collects your half of the work and places it in the folder. "You too, Kaku." You returned, a hold on his arm as you sat and a sudden heat flushes to Mikey at how domestic you two appeared. Everything was serene and the communication you two had was clear, unlike the relationship you had with your boyfriend which was always done short or a one way type. When you pushed back the chair to distance yourself, one of the legs were slanted backwards too much at your sudden motion so Kakucho grips onto the top of the chair to keep you steady while he lowers his face to check you. "You okay?"

"Enough." Mikey came in while you stood up along with Kakucho. "Y/N, come with me. Kakucho, you too." He spoke forwardly, subtly grabbing your arm and bringing you out of the room. "Mikey? I'm sorry I was late." You apologized as he sighs, walking and putting a gap between you two. Even if you tried to go near him, the more he quickens his pace and avoids you at all cost. His continuous flow of insecurities were dragging his feet to be away from you as much as possible. Would Kakucho have been a better replacement? Or was it Mikey that was the understudy that he failed to play the part?

"What's wrong? I won't be late again." You proposed only to get silence from the other end. You put your hands behind your back before following Mikey better that you place your hand on his shoulder but he moves quicker, opting to grab you first by the waist until he drags both of you to the next room. Mikey tightens his grip on your waist as he sighs. "It's not about being late." he answered shortly while you try to find out what caused this situation in the first place.

"All I want to say is," he began, remembering the way Kakucho had stared at you earlier as well as the hand to your back that he curses to remove from his memory.

Mikey tilts his head, lowering at the brink of your neck before he proceeds to be near your ear accompanied by his hot breath while you panicked wondering why he's gotten so possessive but he finally realized just how much its gonna dawn on him when you leave him for someone else.

"Kakucho can't have you. You're mine, for as long as you're alive, love."

A/N: oh lord am i late to writing a lot of stuff🔪☺️

TOKYO REV : @strawberrieas @kwrgei @raya-sano @kimrena-stuff @heavensbeloved @rosewood1999 @beezebub @l-luci @bekky06 @keiisukebaji @manjiroarchiviste @smileysmileysmiley @tendo-shairdye @toshiswifey @thispenguinrocks @kleesboom

OVERALL: @stesphy @itsmeaudrieee @crapimahuman @vizorlette @floydenai @dai-tsukki-desu @inu1gf

[soulmate-game]

New fic *test*

New Bio!dad Bruce story? I’m testing out this first chapter, and if I like where it’s going I might add it to my growing pile of WIPs. If I have inspiration, I might as well use it. Because of life events stressing me the hell out, I’m throwing any writing plans out the window and I’m purely gonna write to destress right now. Whether that means updating THG or not, or continuing Maribat March, we’ll just have to see how this all pans out. Things are subject to day-to-day change.

I got inspiration from this from rereading my day 1 story for Bio!dad Bruce Wayne month from last year. I’m just gonna change a few things.

—*—*—*—*—*

For once, an unfamiliar face attracted the attention of everyone who caught even a glimpse of them. It wasn’t even because of the person themselves at first, but their dress. The skirt like the most fantastical of storybook ball gowns, fluffy layers of satin over a luxurious petticoat, with a stunning pink floral pattern whose busy appearance was tastefully offset by a shorter, sheer layer of leaf green tulle artistically weaved and somehow sculpted over the floral in order to tame it. The effect turned what should be a grandmotherly pattern into something softer, sophisticated and youthful and yet also reminiscent of fairytale princesses. Over top the short layer of green tulle was an even shorter later of white tulle, almost invisible except for the elegant embroidery of crystal-white vines that twined all over it, connecting the green below it to the bottom-most floral pattern and oddly adding a layer of childishness instead of maturity. At the waist of the dress was a dark plum pink satin ribbon, to separate the elaborate ballgown skirt from the bodice. Attached to the simple ribbon was a large brooch of fabric flowers, with a single plastic ladybug in the center.

The bodice of the dress came up into a cheongsam neckline, but was sleeveless. It was a simple design, of half green and half dark pink, with a white border separating the two. The white border had expertly done embroideries in a soft silver thread that would only be visible close up, the images the thread made being that of fairies and ladybugs dancing around one another.

It was, all in all, a stunning display that made the small eurasian woman wearing them look like absolute royalty. Perhaps a long lost fairy princess. Her black-blue hair was even done up in elaborate looping braids and a braided bun, with silver and green pins that further completed the regal ensemble. And yes, while the expertly done dress was what initially captivated her current audience, it was not what kept them from leaving her alone. That was all her personality, bubbly and bright as her blinding smile. It was a sunny disposition that very few people present had any exposure to at all, and it drew them like a sunflower to the daylight. They could not help but flock closer, or even just stand back and keep themselves turned to her presence. Already she had been at the gala for two hours, but there was no issue. She just kept proving her generosity, admitting she had donated both a dress and a suit of her own making to the charity auction that would begin soon, one of the main attractions of the gala. She skillfully charmed the more snooty of the attendants, and artfully twisted her words so that they felt compelled to donate more money that they truly had no use for. Later, they would remember their donation and wonder what compelled it, but come up with no satisfying answer.

And yet she was entirely unaware of her more silent audience, who stood back and observed. Truth be told, every one of them was glad to not be the center of that attention for a change, to have room to breathe for so long at an event where usually that commodity was so scarce that it demanded a fierce competition for. Compared to her garden of color, they were all shadows in shades of blacks and blues and whites, with a touch of red here and there that was entirely too thematic for their home city. The one who sported a royal blue suit tilted his head at the scene they were all calmly witnessing, his bright azure eyes glittering.

“She’s like magic,” he mused, clearly enchanted despite having not said a single word to the woman. “Perfect socialite. She’s kind, generous, she made that dress and the ones she donated to the auction herself so she’s obviously got an intimidating amount of skill for her age. She even tricks those old fuddy-duddies into spending money. It’s like a dream come true!”

“I don't trust it,” the one to his right said, a man just a few inches shorter in a classic black suit with a red dress shirt underneath. He absently swept his bangs away from his face as he narrowed his eyes at the woman. “It seems too perfect. She doesn’t have any identifiable character flaw, except maybe being a little clumsy and too energetic. She does babble a little… but nothing that actually suggests any depth besides her just being— good. That’s impossible, and I don’t trust it.”

“Tt. I agree with Drake for once. She seems entirely too comfortable with this setting, despite her blushes and rambles,” the one who spoke this like was taller, clearly a teen in the middle of his growth spurt. He, too, wore a plain black suit but his had subtle charcoal embroidery and he wore an emerald-green dress shirt under it that made his matching eyes gleam dangerously. “It seems almost playacted. Expertly so, but nonetheless not entirely genuine.”

“Wow, not many pick up on that. I’m gonna give your observations a solid eight out of ten. They’re all perfectly sound, but not quite complete,” a new voice made all of the silent group stiffen— somehow they had been snuck up on. The newcomer smirked at them as if having fully expected their reaction but still being pleased at being able to evoke it. This was yet another stunner; far too much color in her outfit to be a Gotham native, and far too much skill in the construction for it to signify anything less than extreme influence. She had bright golden-blond hair that was coiled into a low bun, with her bangs artfully curled and arranged to display her crystal blue eyes.

In contrast to the garden-themed dress of the Eurasian woman who had garnered their attention at first, this newcomer was wearing a pantsuit. It was all in a dark honey-gold, in a stiff fabric with construction that made it lay entirely in perfect, straight lines and hug her form in the right places. Black embroidery decorated the long, flared sleeves and pant legs and dripped around the square neckline like a faux necklace. A cape made out of the same material as the rest of the pantsuit was draped on one shoulder. It started out as the same honey-gold color, but it became a gradient as it faded to a solid black at the ends. Gold thread embroidery decorated the solid black bottom of the cape in delicate, deceptively simplistic swirls. The top half of the pantsuit was clearly inspired by military garb, simultaneously rigidly constructed yet fitted, with circular onyx buttons going down the center of the chest and a thick metal belt, all in swirling silver and black, sat perfectly clasped around her waist. It was far more solid-colored and simplistic compared to the fairytale dress in the center, but no less show stopping and luxurious. It simply showcased an entirely different attitude, almost as if the two women could never get along if their personalities matched their outfits.

“And who are you?” The man who had been the center of the group of shadow-like adults spoke up, back straightening to milk every speck of his generous six-feet-and-three-inches of height. This was none other than Bruce Wayne, the host of this annual charity gala. And normally, his current stance would either intimidate or utterly charm whoever it was directed at— but not this pantsuit-clad blond warrior. Her smirk merely widened, and her blue eyes took on a slight shade of teal as if trying to mimic the dangerous ocean depths.

“I am Chloe Bourgeois, the daughter of Andre Bourgeois, the mayor of Paris, and Audrey Bourgeois, the Style Queen. It’s nice to meet you again, Monsieur Wayne,” she introduced herself imperiously. “I also happen to be the best friend of the girl you were just staring at.”

Bruce nodded, but had trouble reconciling this clear powerhouse of a woman with the bratty and entitled preteen he had met years ago, at the last gala she had attended with her mother. “Of course, I didn’t recognize you at first Chloe. You’ve grown a lot since the last Gala I saw you at.”

Chloe wrinkled her nose, clearly not appreciating the reminder. “I was a bitch,” she admitted easily, seemingly not at all bothered by the confession. It caused not only Bruce but also the oldest three of his sons, who had all also met her in the past, to blink in silent shock. “Things have changed. Paris is apparently the perfect chaotic environment right now to promote emotional growth and smack spoiled kids over the head with reality,” she shrugged. Part of the reason her and her whole class had even been able to come to the Gala in the first place was the fact that Bruce wanted to offer the most attacked group of Parisians a respite and some support from their crazy lives. The fact that even Gotham seemed sane in comparison to Paris was a bit of a hard hit for both involved parties, but in the end everyone understood that “more sane” didn’t always equate with “less dangerous.” Considering all that, Chloe had no reason to sugarcoat the situation in her home city. “But it wasn’t easy at all, and Marinette was largely responsible for my improvement too.”

“Marinette?” The heathen who somehow got away with attending a gala in a black leather jacket over a dress shirt and suit pants asked, raising a brow. Chloe nodded.

“The girl you were just goggling at. Marinette Dupain-Cheng, the class president and resident workaholic. Does she ever sleep? Nobody knows,” Chloe shrugged.

The blue-suited man, Dick Grayson, shot a suspicious glance at Tim, who was standing to his right, as if he was worried his brother had made a female clone of himself just so he could continue to work hard and never rest. Tim ignored him and sipped from the thermos of coffee he had somehow snuck in.

Bruce cleared his throat to bring the focus back onto himself, and shot his most charming smile at Chloe. “They would have known who she was, if they had read the brief information I gave them about your class. But they never do listen to me,” he complained with good humor. “But back to the original topic, Miss Bourgeois, do you care to correct us on how our observations are lacking?”

Chloe laughed easily, smiling and nodding to indicate Marinette, still stuck in a circle of socialites and not seeming the least bit worn out.

“Of course. First; She is not completely acting. She really is like magic sometimes— disgustingly kind, generous, far too willing to help just about anyone for just about any reason. She’s one of the best people I’ve ever met, as much as it pains me to admit it. But she is exaggerating her personality a bit and hiding the parts she doesn’t want anyone to see, so there is a little acting involved. Just not as much as you seem to think,” Chloe then waved her arm in a flourish as if she were presenting Marinette to them. “In short; behold Mari Dupain-Cheng, the ridiculously likeable, disgustingly cute, extremely philanthropic mask that she shows everyone at public events like this. You don’t see any of the insomnia, or the anxiety, or the self doubt. Just the parts she wants you to see, accompanied with a smile to blind you to everything else,” her all-too-deep blue eyes settled back on Bruce then, a knowing glint shining in them. “Don’t you think that’s ridiculously similar to Brucie Wayne for you, Monsieur? Utterly, ridiculously, similar?”

Bruce grit his teeth. He hadn’t expected anyone else to know about his exceptionally well hidden secret, not even his kids had caught on or found his buried evidence yet. Yet his heiress comes up, nearly flaunting her knowledge in his face with all too many unspoken questions and criticisms.

And her cryptic words had succeeded in making all of his kids look at him with extreme suspicion. Shit.

“What are you saying, Miss Bourgeois?” he cautiously prodded. She hummed noncommittally before dropping the bomb all too casually;

“I’m saying I’ve seen her adoption papers, and you won’t be able to run from her for long Monsieur Wayne. As soon as she gets an opening, she’s going to pounce,” Chloe’s eyes glittered dangerously again. “And nowadays, Marinette doesn’t ever let people escape her. Your problem with adoption has created a rather unique problem, you know. You’re at fault for a large majority of her self confidence issues, and I want you to know that I am not going to forget or forgive that anytime soon.”

“Bruce,” Jason’s voice was dark and threatening. “What is she talking about?”

“Something we don’t want getting in the tabloids,” Yet another new voice popped up, allowing Chloe to smugly sink back into the background.

Somewhere during their discussion, Marinette had ambushed them.

“Chloe and I are very good at locating all the reporters in a room and distracting them, but we’re not infallible and this event has far too much coverage,” Her smile reeked confidence and charm, but this close all the Waynes could see the doubt hiding in her bluebell eyes. “Since I’m about to turn eighteen, I figured this would be as good a time as any to finally confront you. I want to make it clear that I seek nothing from you, except the occasional contact. I would like to keep in touch, if nothing else. But if you are adverse to that… then at least answer my questions after the gala,” her eyes developed a hint of carefully controlled desperation. “Please.”

Bruce met her eyes evenly, trying to read her. But she was difficult, simultaneously too many emotions to sort through in her demeanor and much too little. After an extremely tense moment of silence, his voice came out barely above a whisper:

“You do not want anybody to know?”

And hell, if she didn’t recognize the hidden vulnerability in his voice as the very same she heard in her own far too often. In a much tamer version of her own rambling, he went on:

“I can keep it silent if that is what you want. But I want you to know that I will not be adverse to you admitting it anywhere. I don’t expect you to change your name, but I would not be ashamed of the truth getting out. I am not ashamed of it, of you.”

Marinette’s smile grew a little watery. She had to clear her throat to keep herself from tearing up. “Maybe eventually, but not yet. I… I want to stay a little more anonymous for now. It’s one thing to be a well known designer with good connections. It’s an entirely different thing to be…”

“A Wayne?” Bruce finished, ignoring the daggers that were being stared into his back. “I understand completely.

“Father,” Damian’s voice was all sharp edges and rapidly suppressed panic. “What. Is going. On?”

Marinette shot him an apologetic smile. “Apparently, eighteen years ago, his prerogative was to put the child he actually knew about up for adoption when the mother died in childbirth,” her voice was once again only barely loud enough for them to hear, since she didn’t want any eavesdroppers. “Imagine my surprise when I find out he completely flipped sides only months later.”

--*--*--*--*--*

Hey, so please share your feedback on this. This is just to test out a possible new bio dad, multichapter fic and this is the opening scene I'm trying out. If you like it, please tell me what you like about it and please suggest titles for the story! I love you guys' feedback so much!

[ceapa-mica]

GEHAT’IK BE ALIIT | Chapter 13

{cross-posted on ao3}   {masterlist}

← previous chapter   next chapter →

pairing: Din Djarin x Original Female Character

warnings: injury and blood

words: 7358

summary: Their job on Naboo throws Din and Elora into an event where they clearly don't fit in.

a/n: Welcome back!

Here it is! The final chapter of the Naboo arc.

In this chapter Naboo gets a trans queen. It's what a beautful planet like Naboo deserves. ❤️ Oh and what's GBA without the action and drama? There's plenty!

I hope you enjoy!

Elora woke up to an empty bed. The side Din had slept on was already cold. When she turned around, she flinched at the sight of Arfour by her bedside. "Good morning to you, too. Yes, you come along on our mission, of course." She patted the flat top of his dome and got up. She sensed Seshén coming up the stairs. Seconds later there was a knock on the door.

"Elora? Wake up, time to get ready!" Seshén came in, looking a little disappointed when she noticed the now wrinkled dress Elora was still wearing. "We'll have to hurry. It's already past 0900!"

"That's early… The ball's supposed to be in the evening, yes?"

"Sure, but it will take several hours alone to turn you into a lady who fits into high society. I'll take care of your looks while my husband takes care of your false identity." With her gray hair tied back in a messy bun and her usual working clothes consisting of a simple blouse, long skirt and an apron, Seshén didn’t exactly look like someone you would expect to know about modern Naboo fashion.

Walking down the stairs in those shoes without losing her balance was harder than she expected. Din waited downstairs, his armor polished, looking shinier than ever. Under the helmet he gaped at her beauty. The light blue gown was a beautiful contrast to her auburn hair. The fabric hugged her waist perfectly, and the crystals really looked just as shiny as his armor, if not even more so. He held out his arm for her to take. As she did, they walked outside together where a luxurious landspeeder waited for them.

Elora knew she never wanted to do a job like that ever again. As expected, the following hours made her very uncomfortable. She couldn't relax, no matter how warm the bath water, no matter how soothing the skin lotion and oils. This was not her. Seshén turned her auburn hair into a very elegant braid and helped her with the zipper of her light blue velvet gown which looked stunning on Elora. From her chest down to her abdomen the fabric was covered in shiny crystals, letting her sparkle like a star cluster, and the sleeves were puffy - typical for Naboo fashion. Elora knew it would catch many eyes, just like Din’s armor would. The pearl white high heels she had to wear with her gown were painful to walk in since her feet were only used to her flat sandproof shoes. Seshén placed a delicate looking silver necklace around Elora’s neck, the pendant was a silver silhouette of a bird she wasn’t familiar with. Silver bracelets with shining jewels graced her wrists shortly after. Bright red lipstick, eyeliner, decent eyeshadow - she was not used to the feeling of makeup on her skin, it even felt a little itchy at some point. Not to forget the powder to cover the galaxy of freckles on her face and the tops of her slender shoulders and defined collarbone that peaked above her dress. She indeed looked just like the women in the holodramas. When she looked into the mirror she sighed, the woman staring back at her did not look Elora Jihiiga anymore, but a stranger. Arfour looked her over with his sensor, making confused bleeping sounds when he noticed her sad expression.

Ghizma wore a black body glove, her curly fuchsia hair tied neatly into a ponytail. She leaned against a speeder bike, cleaning her sniper rifle with care.

"You'll be taking the landspeeder. Ghizma will be making her way on the speeder bike to get to the other side of the palace where her sniper nest will be. Here are your faux chain codes. Good luck!" Zaev announced. The three exchanged looks. Ghizma eyed Elora, biting her lip, as there was nothing to ridicule her for. She lost her bet - Seshén managed to make the filthy desert girl look like actual royalty.

"I'm Princess Edie Jotraas from a small planet named Ristea, and currently on Naboo for a diplomatic visit." Elora looked over the sheets of flimsi Zaev had given her. She had to get used to the role before the mission began. "And you're Jes Favars… my bodyguard and confidante. Looks like you don't have to adapt at all." She rolled her eyes and stuffed the flimsi in Mando's messenger bag. "Edie Jotraas… I have to get used to that name.."

"You better get used to it quickly. We can't afford to fail this mission." Ghizma reminded her and got on her speeder bike with her disassembled rifle on her back.

"How are they supposed to address me? Your highness? Your majesty? Shit…" 

"They will know how to call you. Relax. You gotta pretend you're supposed to be there." Zaev explained.

"And what about you?" she pointed at Ghizma.

"Me? I'll keep watch from a distance and shoot to distract everybody. They will be after me. That will give you a chance to get to Masuk's quarters."

Elora nodded. It was all settled. The landspeeder looked every bit luxurious, expensive enough to be a noble’s vehicle. A spark lit up in Elora's eyes at the idea of scrapping it for parts. Her fingers itched to take the vehicle apart, but she had to resist the temptation and get in the backseat.

This is already harder than I thought. Man, this speeder is so valuable. Maker help me…

Nervously bouncing her leg, she watched the historic buildings of Theed pass. She and Din remembered how they spent the day before exploring this beautiful city. At that moment they wished they weren’t here for a mission but for pleasure. He had learned so much about her just spending the entire previous day with her. With every new planet she visited, her curiosity grew. As Arfour steered the speeder through the streets she wished she could explore the entire city, visit all the little shops, talk to the friendly people, and ask them and Din thousands of questions about life, about the Galaxy. After a life in the desert all she wanted was to explore. Getting acquainted with new types of droids or speeders and learning how to take them apart and fix them. There were so many impressions on their drive to the palace, she couldn’t decide where to look. Her eyes eventually landed on an antique golden gate at which Arfour halted the landspeeder. Din and Elora exchanged looks. "You ready?" he asked and got out to help her out of the speeder like the gentleman he was. One minute they admired the city, the next the situation became uncomfortable to the both of them. They knew they didn't belong in a place like this. Too many people, too many protocols on how to behave - it was a nightmare, and nothing what Elora expected it to be. She recalled the holopic of Eron Masuk from her memory while they walked up the stairs to the palace. Focusing on the job at hand mattered, not what some dumb nobles thought of her. Elora may fit right in with her dress and overall appearance, but Din stuck out like a sore thumb. He didn’t look regal in any way. His armor, no matter how polished, couldn’t hide all his weapons and the regular clothing he wore underneath.

There was a rustle at the other end of the comm. “Ok, remember the etiquette. Do not speak to the queen unless she speaks to you and don’t act confused or shocked when she does. Remember, it’s a matter of respect!” Ghizma told them on their comm channel.

“Don’t worry, my cousin Erwa is trans. There’s no reason to treat someone differently because of their gender.” Elora said.

The guards stopped him at the gate. Din just looked way too intimidating, no matter how shiny his armor. "Sir, we must ask you to leave your weapons. And are you sure about… taking that droid with you?" Arfour didn’t look exactly like a droid a royal would own.

"Weapons are part of my religion."

"This man is my trusted bodyguard. I won't go anywhere without him, same goes for the astromech. You don't want to keep me from joining the festivities, do you?" Elora chimed in, showing them her faux chain code. Arfour’s flaking paint job was something she had to tend to once she was back on the Razor Crest with enough time on her hands. The guardsman apologized profusely and let them pass, obviously afraid to lose his job.

The Royal Palace exceeded Elora’s expectations. The large throne room was an enormous room with historic paintings on the walls, dark red curtains, shiny beige marble flooring and a buffet with more food on one table than she had ever seen. Most of the many guests were human. No matter their wealth, Din's beskar armor drew many eyes regardless. Several guests started whispering. Whether it was about the armor, her dress or Arfour’s paint job, Elora’s reply to all those voices around her was a forced smile on her lips. It took a lot for her to adapt to the way they moved. When she heard them speak, she noticed they used words in Basic she wasn't familiar with. Scanning the crowd, a middle aged man with brown locks and in a stylish suit surrounded by people - mostly by women who admired him - caught Din’s eye. This was most definitely the man they were looking for.

He's one of those guys. This couldn't be easier.

While looking at him, he scanned him with his helmet's sensors and noticed a small object in the pocket of his suit. "El- I mean, your highness… Do you see him? Masuk is right over there. He has the object in his pocket."

"Wait, it's supposed to be in his room." Ghizma told them through the comlink.

"Why would he leave something so valuable in a place where it was almost stolen before?" Elora voiced her thoughts.

"She's right. It makes sense he keeps the stick close. Those women could very well make a potential thief think he's easy to approach. This is most likely a trap."

Elora cocked her head. "The plan was to steal the datastick from his room. Now we need to improvise and-"

"My lady, may I ask for a dance?" A young man in a noble burgundy red suit and black slicked back hair had approached her from behind, interrupting her.

"I- I don't dance."

"Most princesses wouldn't turn down such a great opportunity." He flashed her the whitest smile Elora had ever seen.

Who does he think he is? Who the hell is this guy?

"You know who I am?" she asked, balling her hands to fists behind her back, trying not to make her tension obvious.

"Your royal highness Edie Jotraas of Risteria of course. You were announced when you joined the festivities." With a flirtatious wink the guy held out his arm for her to take. "Lord Charr from the noble house of Teral from Alderaan, my lady. I’m the last of my line." He took her hand and kissed the back of it. She wanted to vomit and Din made a grimace under his helmet at the gesture. He watched her following the guy's lead on the dancefloor. He knew Elora was clever, but nobody could learn how to dance in a matter of minutes. Despite an enthusiastic young lady asking him for a dance, he remained at his spot by one of the tall  white columns with Arfour and watched Elora’s attempt at dancing from afar. The noble from Aldreaan suffered - at least his feet did. She had looked over his shoulder several times to look out for Din and Eron Masuk. The latter was still surrounded by several women and even a few men. She knew she had to catch him alone in a less crowded environment to steal from him. This entire situation sucked. The initial plan had been for nothing. When Elora returned to Din's side, the queen's lackey approached them, looking way too honest to ask her for a dance.

"Your royal highness, Queen Dialé demands to speak with you." he told her in a formal accent.

"With me? May I ask why?”

“You will have to ask her yourself.” He led her and Din towards the throne where a tall beautiful woman was watching the festivities. Her makeup showed off her status as the elected monarch of Naboo, just like the dark royal robes and headdress she was wearing. She looked every bit majestic. Elora noticed this was nothing like the hierarchy of a Jawa tribe. A sudden feeling of nausea overcame her.

“Princess Edie Jotraas, we meet at last.”

At last? Does that mean my false identity is not some made up persona…?!

Elora curtsied, just like she had practiced the previous day.

“After declining each of my prior invitations I’m astounded you followed this one. I take it you’re enjoying yourself?”

“Yes, your majesty. Your palace is impressive, I must say.” She nervously kneaded her fingers, wishing for the moment to be over. Talking with the Queen turned her into the very center of attention in the throne room. She felt attention in the form of many eyes on her at the very moment.

“Curious, I’ve heard your palace lies on a mountain top over a sea of clouds, yet you think of mine as impressive? I’m truly flattered.” Queen Dialé’s eyes went to Din who stood behind Elora showing a relaxed posture Elora knew to be a facade. “Hm, Mandalorians have become a rare sight to behold nowadays. May I ask where you found this one?”

“He… he just crossed my path one day during my travels.”

“Oh? Well, he probably does an excellent job. I hope you enjoy your stay and let me know if you need anything.”

“I will. Thank you for your kind words, your majesty.” Elora curtsied again. Her initial tension fell off once she was out of the Queen’s sight. It confused her to say the least. Queen Dialé was not like a tribe’s chief like she imagined she would be. Instead of mingling with her guests she just sat on that throne and watched the festivity unfold. It didn’t look like she had any task to do apart from sitting there and looking stunning in her royal robes. It had taken a lot of restraint to refrain from asking the Queen if she would like to play a game of sabacc to brighten her mood. Elora had to focus on the task at hand, and that was to separate Eron Masuk from the crowd of admirers which had gathered around him. As if on cue the target stood up from the fancy sofa he sat on an appeasing smile across his face as he addressed his followers and excused himself. Din used his helmet’s sensors to determine exactly what he was saying.

“He’s going to the ‘freshers.” Din spoke to Ghizma over the comm. She recalled the palace’s layout and groaned in frustration.

“No chance. The ‘freshers are hidden from my point of view.”

“Don’t worry, that’s my chance to steal the datastick.” Elora followed the target subtly enough so nobody would become suspicious. The walls in the hallways were covered in art and more wine red curtains, while the marble floor was covered by a carpet in the same shade of red. Everything was so clean and looked more like a museum than an actual home to someone - ruler or not.

“Are you sure this is the right moment?” Din asked.

“I have to try.”

Ghizma rolled her eyes and lowered her rifle. “In case things go south I shoot up the buffet or scare some high ranking dipshit with a few shots.”

“Stay here.” Elora whispered when they reached the corner of the hallway where the ‘freshers were located.

“What’s your plan exactly? Do you wanna seduce him?” Ghizma asked.

Din tensed at the thought. Elora shook her head before realizing that Ghizma couldn’t see her. “I don’t know how to seduce someone. I’ll just act spontaneously.”

“We’re doomed.” Ghizma sighed.

 When Eron Masuk left the ‘fresher, he stumbled over a foot in an expensive looking high heel. The moment it took for him to regain his balance was enough for Elora to snatch the datastick from his pocket. She hid it under her breast band, pretending to scratch an itch on her collarbone.

“My apologies, are you alright?” she asked in the best fake concern she could muster.

“I am, thank you.” When he turned around he pulled a blaster from his jacket in the blink of an eye, holding Elora at gunpoint. “Y’know, it’s a shame a sweet thing like you wants to steal from me.”

“The true shame is guys like you exist.” she answered nonchalantly.

“You know nothing about me. Do you wanna risk your life? Your freedom? Is this worth it?”

Elora remained calm in the face of danger. “I know enough. And I’ve never been one to half-ass shenanigans.” Her facial expression was blank, it made him uneasy.

“Neither have I.” He attempted to shoot Elora with a stun ray, but she dodged it just as he  pulled the trigger.

Alarmed by the shot, Din stepped around the corner, pointing his blaster at Eron Masuk. His gaze suddenly locked onto something behind them a silver protocol droid was approaching them.

“Looks like you’re not the only one with reinforcements.”

“It’s a common protocol droid.” With her words Masuk’s blaster flew out of his hands and she caught it with ease.

“Fascinating.” He snorted. “I thought the Jedi were extinct. Certain people would consider your skillset as very valuable. And your Mandalorian companion - his armor is worth a fortune. I gotta say, I’d prefer you as my allies, but now that it seems impossible I’ll have no choice.” His words served as a distraction. He had pressed a button on his bracelet without Elora or Din noticing. The droid moved towards them, and suddenly it was getting taller and taller until it almost reached the ceiling.

“Give me back my datastick and I shall leave you and your companion unscathed. If you don’t comply you will join all the others of your kind. Don’t be stupid. The Jedi were peacekeepers, and is it really in your interest to die for such an insignificant cause, Mandalorian?”

“Killing someone who’s massively profiting from all the misery he brings over this Galaxy doesn’t seem insignificant to me. This is the way.”

“You think you know who we are, but you don’t.” Elora retorted. Din walked up behind her, intimidating as ever.

“This droid is programmed to eliminate anyone who dares to threaten me. A completely modified protocol droid. It’s your choice. Should you open fire, you won’t survive the counterattack.”

The strange technology allowed the droid to not just become three times its size but it showed off several weapons systems, including three powerful blaster cannons.

“Those could blow up the palace! Are you out of your mind?!”

“What’s going on in there?” Ghizma asked via comm.

“Just a giant ass droid with enough firepower to destroy this place. And for what? What’s on that stick you would blow up an entire palace for?!”

“You would like to know that, wouldn’t you? It contains a map with coordinates to worlds that have piqued my interest.”

“To help those slave traffickers you’re so friendly with?!” Din spat.

The smug look vanished from Masuk’s face, turning downright furious.

“This is your last chance. Give back the datastick and I will refrain from blowing this palace to bits. Naboo is useless to my efforts and has nothing profitable to offer anyway."

Elora knew stopping a droid this big was tricky, but it was a fucking droid. And if anyone had experience with droids, it was her. Masuk wasn’t the one who had built it - machines in a factory did. She had been fixing and building droids from scrap all her life. This one was just another one to be scrapped, she decided. When she reached out to destroy it with her powers… it hardly budged. Din swallowed under his helmet and released a swarm of whistling birds from his vambrace - to no avail. They didn't cause any damage at all. It dawned on Din what this droid was made out of. Eventually it shot at Elora, barely missing her. The noise must have caught the attention of everyone else inside the palace.

“The people must be evacuated! Ghizma, shoot!” Din called.

The Theelin grinned and shot up the buffet from her spot. Food and drinks splattered throughout the throne room paired with the hysterical screams of the guests and orders barked at the palace guards. She had to leave her position immediately if she wanted to remain anonymous.

A huge clanker? Haven’t shot one in ages… I should go check that out.

The bolts from the droids' laser cannons left holes in the marble floor.

"It's made out of beskar!" Din had recognized the Mandalorian metal the second the whistling birds had hit it with the signature sound of beskar colliding with beskar.

This makes the situation a lot more difficult.

Explosives and blaster bolts couldn't destroy pure beskar. Din knew he had to find a weak spot not covered in the valuable metal to shut off the droid. Finding shelter behind a column, he used the sensors in his helmet to figure out the droid's vulnerabilities. He discovered a patch of unprotected wiring on its neck and a plan formed in his head.

"I know what to do!"

Elora took that as a cue to stun Eron Masuk with his own blaster, while dodging another bolt from the droid's blaster cannon. Her ears were ringing at the loud noise as she joined Mando behind the column at the corner.

"Ghizma, we need you here. You must distract the droid for us. Elora, you got the stick?" he asked.

"Hidden in the safest place on my body."

"The droid must be destroyed, otherwise it will wreak havoc and destroy the entire palace. There's a weak spot at its neck - a patch not covered by beskar and, unfortunately, out of our reach, so the droid must fall -" As the heavy steps of the droid neared, a blaster bolt hit the marble floor next to Elora. They escaped to the end of the hallway behind one of the heavy curtains.

"The droid doesn't seem to be fast, we can use that to our advantage. Ghizma, do you copy?"

"Almost there!" she responded, sounding a little out of breath.

"Ok, Elora, in order to make it fall I'm gonna use my whipcord. That won't do much unless you use the Force to keep the droid's legs in place. It will fall. When it does, I'll jump on its back and tear through the wiring."

Elora sensed Ghizma before she arrived. The Theelin was out of breath, her black boots stained with unspeakable stains of food and liquids.

"The throne room looks like a fucking battle zone. So where's your- AH!" A blaster bolt almost hit her in the chest had Elora not force pulled her away from the spot in the matter of a second.

"I- I see… What do you need me to do?"

"Distract it! We need to get closer to it without getting shot."

"Stay here, I'll take care of it." With a determined spark in her deep brown eyes she started shooting while leaving her cover.

"Over here you piece of junk!" she yelled, luring the droid the other way, causing it to tear several paintings off the wall in the process. It aimed its weapons in her direction, turning its back to Din and Elora.

"Are you sure you can do this?" Din asked.

"I will do my best." Elora assured him, looking at Arfour who was trembling behind her. "Arfour? Not so much…"

Din nodded and walked up to the distracted droid, shooting his whipcord at its two legs.

"Now!"

She took a deep breath and reached out through the Force. Gritting her teeth, she kept the droid in place with the whipcord which Din had separated from his vambrace. The droid couldn’t move from the spot, yet it was programmed to move. First it swayed, then it crashed down with a deafening noise, tearing down several curtains and more paintings along with it. Din jumped on its back and tried to get to the exposed wiring.

“Watch out!” Elora yelled, trying with all her power to stop the droid’s beskar arm from hitting him, but she was only able to slow the blow a little. The impact was inevitable. With a sound only beskar colliding with beskar could make, Din was thrown off the droid’s back. Elora’s heart stopped for a moment at the sight.

“ARGH!” Ghizma screamed, focusing her fire at the droid’s face. Simultaneously Elora let go of her force grip the second Din had fallen off the droid. His armor hitting the ground had left cracks in the marble tiles beneath him - he didn’t move when she crouched next to him.

“Mando… D-Din! No no no! Get back up! We must-”

Instead of the Mandalorian it was the droid which was getting back up as it had managed to rip the whipcord apart. Desperately Elora pulled Din’s limp body out of harm's way around the corner.

“Hey redhead! You can stay with your cyare, I know what your plan was. Mando said it’s on its neck? How about you-” Ghizma dodged several deafening shots from the blaster cannons. “How about you throw me on top of that thing?”

Elora looked up while feeling for a pulse or signs of breath. She took a deep breath and swallowed her panic and anxiety.

“Arfour, watch over him, I’ll be back in a sec.” Elora sprinted around the corner. The second Ghizma saw her, she got into position.

“Do it!”

She felt the Force flow through her and reached out until it wrapped around Ghizma, catapulting her onto the droid’s shoulders. There she pulled a vibroblade out of her boot. With a furious scream she rammed it right through the exposed wiring. The droid stumbled several steps before falling. Ghizma jumped off before it hit the ground, approaching a still stunned Eron Masuk, clutching the vibroblade in her hand tighter than before.

“I love you, Din.” His mother kissed him one last time. The heavy steps and blaster shots from the seperatist droids filled the air, but all he could focus on was his mother’s loving face. “Come back to me.” Another voice spoke. It was familiar, so familiar. His parents put him into the hideout, shutting the doors. The explosion which took their lives rang in his ears like it did so many times before in his dreams. When the doors opened, and he expected the droid to aim its weapons at his helpless self, he was back.

The first thing he saw was the bright light of a chandelier, the second thing were strands of auburn hair. At first all he could hear was his rapid heartbeat, but when he saw her face, as she sat next to him, focused and with her eyes closed, it slowed down. Warmth flooded every fiber of his being. It was none other than the kind of warmth which signified safety. He knew it was her doing and watched her as he slowly came to. A pounding headache and pain in his chest, most likely a few broken ribs, made it hard for him to move like he wanted to. 

“What happened?” he groaned, trying to sit up. The pain in his chest worsened tenfold as he did so. Elora sighed in relief when she heard his raspy voice.

“Welcome back! For a second I thought… Nevermind. You, sir, need a bacta tank.”

“Did you remove my-”

“No! Din I would never do that, you hear me? Unless you were actually dying. But your life force was still there. So I wasn’t that worried.”

If he knew how scared I was… No, he’ll be fine. I hope those bacta tanks can be used with a helmet on.

Elora had never heard Din whimper before. That’s when she knew he was in a great deal of pain - pain she wished she could take away from him.

“Just let me take a breath.” He sat down, holding the rips on his right side.

“Let me know when you’re ready to walk back to the speeder.”

Arfour nudged Din gently, making a concerned noise. He patted the astromech's flat dome while focusing on his breathing. Meanwhile Elora dug through the heap of expensive scrap, looking for valuable parts that fit into her bags just like she did all her life. When she reached the droid’s center she found something she didn’t expect to find on this quest. This droid had been powered by none other than a  shiny diatium power cell, and in the correct size to fit into her unfinished lightsaber, too. She bit her lip to suppress a scream of joy as she didn’t want to alert Din.

“Oh this is great! Finally!”

Ghizma cleared her throat behind her. When Elora turned around, she flinched. Ghizma was covered head to toe in blood.

“Don’t worry, it’s not mine. Let’s help the old tin can back to your ship in one piece, shall we?” she said with a smirk on her face. Elora noticed Eron Masuk’s life force was gone. That explained the blood, especially the blood dripping out of Ghizma’s bag. When she noticed the uncomfortable look in Elora’s eyes she just shrugged. “You guys don’t take trophies?”

“None I would know of.”

They helped Din get up and walked slowly through the palace towards the exit, that was until the remaining palace guards spotted them - opening fire.

“Ugh great, just what we needed! Go! I’ll have your back!” Ghizma turned and shot at the guards while Elora and Arfour supported Din while fleeing through the entrance hall. Elora kicked her high heels off in the process, since she was not really able to run in them, especially not the stairs. Din was coughing, his breath went heavy. Yet he reached for his blaster. Their way out was blocked by an entire squad of palace guards.

“Freeze! You’re under arrest!” the captain of the guard yelled.

“The man responsible is dead, there is no one for you to arrest!” The guards didn’t back down, not leaving Elora much of a choice. “Sorry about this.”

A wave of the Force yeeted them several meters back. All of them survived, but it took a moment for them to get back to their feet - a moment Elora, Din, Ghizma and Arfour used to escape to the lot where their landspeeder was parked. It was way past midnight, so getting back to the inn in the dark wouldn’t be easy, and losing the guards who were hunting them down while driving though the brightly lit city would be quite a challenge.

“Get in!” Elora jumped into the driver’s seat. Arfour bleeped in protest. “No offense, but I’ve been driving through rough desert terrain for years. The city streets are like… like canyons, yes!” Arfour got into the astromech socket, audibly sulking. They heard the guards’ footsteps when Elora started the engine.

“Ghizma, you think you can stun them?”

“Sure thing!”

As Elora drove off the parking lot and joined the nightly traffic of Theed, the guards got into their military speeders.

“Take my ion blaster!” Elora threw the weapon at Ghizma. “I modified it several years ago.”

The modification made the blaster much stronger than the usual ion blaster. Strong enough to disable the electrical systems of the military vehicles. Elora hit the gas, zooming through the streets of Theed. People screamed, jumping aside, market stalls got knocked over, it was total chaos. The vehicle was faster than an average landspeeder. Eventually police droids were on their heels, coming from almost every direction.

“Dank farrik! You better hold on tight back there! Mando, how are you feeling?”

“I-I’m fine, just- just get us out of here!” He tried not to sound like he was in a great deal of pain, but Elora sensed it all too well. The way he sat on the backseat pressing a hand over the right side of his chest indicated just how much pain he was in. She steered the speeder through a few dark shortcuts, meanwhile Ghizma was constantly shooting those annoying droids off their funny little vehicles which was almost too easy for a markswoman of her skill. Elora could feel even the smallest obstacles approaching and every blastershot before they could hit the speeder. Apart from a few scratches the speeder still looked as good as new, despite being chased down.

“They just won’t give up!” Ghizma complained.

When they finally reached the city’s outskirts, and with them streets with less lighting, they had to think of a plan to return to Zaev’s inn without leading the law enforcement there.

“They’re after our speeder, we need to jump off and make our way to Zaev’s undetected!” Elora emphasized.

“There are several lakes three klicks north from here.” Ghizma suggested.

Lakes meant water. Elora bit her lip and gripped the steering wheel a little tighter. “There must be another way! The water- I don’t think Mando is capable of swimming at the moment.” She had to think of a quick plan. All she could think of was a thought she did not like at all - using the Force on Din who was already injured. There was no time.

“Ok, get ready. Remember to turn off your lights. We’ll have to jump. Mando, I’ll break your fall with my powers. I can’t promise it won’t hurt or will worsen your injuries-”

“Do it!” he spoke through gritted teeth.

Hills covered in soft grass would have to do. When the police droids were out of eyeshot, Elora set the speeder on autodrive. They prepared to jump. “3…2…1…NOW!”

During the fall, Elora reached out in the matter of a second, breaking Din’s fall at just the right moment, letting him down as gently as possible. Ghizma spat out bits of dirt which had found their way into her mouth at impact. Arfour landed next to Elora beeping questioningly if they were alright.

“We’re fine. Now let’s go hide behind those trees until the droids are gone.”

“I have dirt in my mouth! That’s what you call fine?!” Ghizma complained.

As expected the police droids continued chasing the silver luxury speeder. They were safe, for now. Arfour used his sensors and led them back to Zaev’s inn. It was a 45 minute walk, and Din’s condition did everything but improve.

“We have a medcenter in our village.”

“I won’t remove my helmet.”

Ghizma shrugged. “We have some good med droids.”

“No droids.”

She rolled her eyes. “Is he always that stubborn when he’s injured?”

Elora huffed. “He’s always stubborn.”

“And people are surprised that Mandalorians are almost extinct. Let me tell ya, they’re all stubborn as fuck.”

“You know I can hear you, right?” Mando remarked, then looked at Arfour who was rolling next to him. Initially there had been no trust in this astromech, but now that he had gotten used to the droid being around he didn’t mind him that much.

Perhaps I should trust Elora’s judgment. She knows more about droids than I ever will. I need help. Droids… are no living things. For Grogu. Do it for Grogu.

 They saw the lights from Zaev’s inn two klicks away. There were no police droids in sight, just the Razor Crest was waiting for them at the very spot where Din had left her. With the mission accomplished, they packed what was left of their stuff in their rooms and said their goodbyes to Zaev and Seshén.

Back on board, Din was sitting down on his cot, out of breath, while Arfour and Ghizma went into the cockpit. The Crest was already lifting off when Elora knelt down in front of him to look up at his T visor.

“How are you feeling? It will take several hours until we’re on Mandalore. How can I help you?”

“I’m ok, just- I don’t exactly trust Ghizma with my ship.”

Elora sighed. “Stop your attempts to distract me from your misery. It’s your ribs, right? Care to let me take a look at it?” She went to get the medpack, only to find a cauterizer and several bacta patches in there. “You gotta be shitting me! You’re a kriffing bounty hunter and all you got is that?!”

“It was always sufficient. The beskar keeps me safe, most of the time.”

“Today’s not most of the time. Will you show me your injury or not? Look, I’m just trying to help.”

Din gave in when he saw the piercing look in Elora’s eyes. Arguing with her in his current state would only take more of a toll on him. He removed the armor from the upper half of his body, followed by his clothing. It was the first time Elora saw his bare chest. His skin was golden. She didn’t know what she imagined, but certainly not this. He was just as broad as he looked in the armor.

Now is not the time to fantasize. Save it for later! He’s injured! Elora scolded herself in her mind and applied gentle pressure to the bruises forming on his chest. Din hissed at the pain her touch caused, at the same time he shuddered, as he was not used to someone else’s touch on his bare skin. If it wouldn’t hurt him so much, he would consider the feeling of her skin on his as pleasant. He tried to focus on those pleasant aspects and the focused look in her eyes.

“Ooo that doesn’t feel like it’s supposed to. Several ribs seem to be broken. You don’t have a mediscanner on board, do you?”

He shook his head as she ran her fingers over the bruises again, this time without adding pressure. Din’s breathing was heavy. She didn’t like the sound of it. “Does it hurt when you’re breathing?”

“S-stinging pain, it’s- I’m fine, don’t worry about me, cyare .”

“Sounds like a broken rib might have punctured your lung. This is a dangerous injury and you tell me not to worry? I swear, Din, if you weren't already injured, I would throw a punch at you!”

“I’d like to see you try.”

In so much pain and still smug… I hate Mandalorians and their recklessness.

A sudden jolt notified them that the Crest had entered hyperspace.

Observant as ever, Din nodded towards the full bags inside her cloak. “What did you take?” Elora suddenly remembered the diatium power cell she had taken from the remains of the bodyguard droid. She showed the small rectangle object to him.

“I can finish my lightsaber now.”

Din put his shirt and armor back on. He gritted his teeth more than once at the pain dressing himself caused, but refused Elora’s offer to help him.

“I would like to watch you complete it.”

Elora took the unfinished lightsaber from his weapon storage and began crafting. She looked like she was in her element when she was able to use tools and create things. The way she used the tools, as if her hands were made to hold them, the way she remained fixated on finishing her weapon, Din was intrigued.

Ten minutes later she was done. The weapon looked like it was made from scrap, because it was, yet the material seemed stable and reliable.

“This is it. Let’s hope this works… Are you ready to see it?”

“Yes.” Din felt happy for Elora. She had wanted to use her kyber crystal for so long and now she was able to. There was a happy sparkle in her eyes when the purple plasma blade bathed the room in a purple light. The weapon hummed when she swished it through the air. It looked elegant and the longer he watched Elora wield it, he noticed the weapon and her body became in tune with each other. He had never seen anything like it. The lightsaber became an extension of herself. It was a connection he and his blaster could never have, and Din was more than familiar with his favorite blaster.

Elora felt the Force flow through her body, it connected her with her weapon, physically and emotionally. She knew this weapon would lead her in whatever battle life had in store for her. It was more than a weapon, it was a part of herself, her very soul.

“What do you think?” she asked.

“It looks like you were born to wield it.” Din’s mouth had gone dry. He liked women who knew how to wield a weapon, but Elora made him weak in the knees.

“It’s perfect, Din.” She switched it off and attached it to her belt with a proud smile gracing her lips..

“This is most likely what your mother wanted for you.”

A tear ran down her cheek at his words. She sat down next to him and cupped the cheek of his helmet in her palm. He leaned into her touch despite not being able to feel it through the beskar.

“It feels like we’ve done something right. Like we were supposed to be there at the exact moment, for this exact mission, so I could find the missing piece for my lightsaber.”

“I don’t believe in destiny, but yes.”

“What do you think Mandalore will be like?” she inquired.

“I’ve been told it's a wasteland. Whoever goes there dies. Now our new acquaintances say there’s a village named Kyrimorut. Never heard of it. I don’t know what to think anymore. I just hope Grogu is alright.”

“I can’t wait to meditate with him again.” She leaned her head against his pauldron.

“It’s been three days and I miss the little womp rat more than anything.” he admitted.

Din was not a man who voiced his feelings often, but Elora’s presence caused him to open up. He was just a man under his armor and she was the first person who touched his heart in a way he couldn’t explain. It was different when he was his Grogu. Sure, he was affectionate towards him and the child had a special place in his heart, but the connection he had to him was entirely different than what he felt for Elora. He had shut people out since losing his parent’s on that fateful day to avoid getting hurt again. Somehow Grogu und Elora had managed to worm their way into his heart. The hardened bounty hunter he had been before now was only a facade he pulled up towards outsiders.

Elora felt at peace in Din’s presence. She didn’t mind the cool beskar of his pauldron against her cheek, but sometimes she wished she could be closer. To feel him against her, just like she did during the nights at Zaev’s inn. She had never felt like this before. This wasn’t the same affection she felt towards her family. Being with Din was different and she died to explore those feelings further. He had to heal first, but she planned on bringing this topic up soon enough. Together with him she wanted to figure out how far those feelings went and if they could potentially turn into something more. A part of her yearned for his touch, even fantasized about things she wanted to do with him. She wondered if he felt the same, and in case he did, if he was ready to let go of his restraints and let this feeling take over his actions. Could her wishful thinking become reality soon? Together they sat on the edge of Din’s cot, waiting. He in his shiny armor, she with her now messy hair and slightly torn gown, looking like the polar opposites they were.

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I wrote the battle scene in this chapter before the BOBF finale aired... Hey, should Lucasfilm look for a new writer for their shows, I would gladly accept the job!

Get well soon, Din!!! 🥺

Yep, I plan on writing smut soon. Idk if it will be in the next chapter or the chapter after that. But soon, I promise!

So, Mandalore it is... For all you Legends and Clone Wars lovers, I think the next chapter will be to your liking. 😉

Mando'a translations:

cyare = beloved

[fashionitforward]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: New Two Faux Pearl Beaded Hair Bobby Pins - Decorative for Wedding and Gift Box.

[onsiteblinds]

Illuminating Style: Venetian Blinds in the Spotlight

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Elegance in Design:

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Practicality Meets Style:

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Venetian blinds offer practical benefits that make them a popular choice among homeowners and interior designers alike. Their adjustable slats provide privacy without sacrificing natural light, allowing you to enjoy both seclusion and sunshine whenever desired. Moreover, Venetian blinds are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for busy households.

Whether you're looking to update your home decor or enhance the ambiance of your commercial space, Venetian blinds offer the perfect combination of style, versatility, and functionality. With their timeless elegance and practical design, these window treatments continue to shine brightly in the spotlight of interior design.

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venetian blinds spotlight

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[queer-cosette]

OC Aesthetics

Raphaella Marquez: primary colours offset with greys and blacks and browns, bleached curls, faux mink eyelashes, clear nail polish, elegant dark lip-stain, short skirts and loose blouses, patent leather shoes, clunky earrings, coral and waterlily perfume, rich chords on a baby grand piano, Spanish pet names, statement jewellery, gentle but steady hands, tiny scars connecting freckles like constellations, dark eyes that seem to always know exactly what to do, quiet but not meek.

Ramona-Luisa Bertolucci: bright cyans and pinks that almost seem to glow, dark hair worn in high ponytails and junkie buns, silk eyelashes, chipped neon polish on chewed nails, bold lipstick covering kiss-bruised lips, tight jeans and tube tops, scuffed pink docs, tacky plastic hoop earrings, cigarette smoke and musky body spray, angry punk guitars, food is love, elastic chokers and tangled friendship bracelets, bruised knuckles and calloused fingers, hickies showing through concealer, vivid blue eyes full of life and the promise of adventure, vibrance that shines far below just the surface.

Lilli Walker-Cheng: rich dark reds with tasteful silver accents, sleek hair so shiny it almost seems blue, wispy eyelashes, cherry red acrylic nails, vanilla-scented lip gloss, denim short-shorts and patterned tank tops, neon-striped sneakers, dainty studs or silver hoops, perfume that leaves traces of firewood and sweet pears, bubblegum pop, confirms alibis without question, delicate silver chains with sparkly charms, well-manicured hands that glitter with dainty silver rings, rosy cheeks permanently round from smiling so much, grey eyes that understand without being told, a forward kindness that extends to everyone who needs it.