#Lotus Notes Client

[whitedarkmoonflower]

Need a ride?

Pairing: Valentin x reader (female)

Authors note: this was not planed, but that scene with Valentin on the bike was just too hot to process. You can officially blame my cat who woke me at 3 am today if this totally sucks.

Warnings: plot? never heard of it. Pure SMUT. Sex in public, Valentin giving quite some Dom vibes, fingering, oral, p in v

Word Count: 3,1 K

Summary: your tire is mysteriously gotten flat and you have no other choice as to accept the offer of a ride home from Valentin - the insanely sexy health mentor you've been eyeing from the moment you started working at The White Lotus luxury resort

“Need a ride?” a familiar, soft voice rich with that insanely sexy accent reaches you over the hum of the idling bike as it comes to a stop beside you. 

For a moment your confused gaze remains glued on the completely flat tire of your moped, as if trying to will it to reinflate by your sheer disbelief only, before you slowly lift your eyes to meet that cheeky smile you’ve been fond of since the first moment you set your foot on the grounds of the luxury resort that was supposed to be you new home for a while. 

It might not have been the most rational decision of your life to drop out of the university for a spiritual self-discovery trip through the East but it was definitely not the worst. OK, you ran out of money after something like one month, but that didn’t mean you were ready to give up on your plans. 

Thailand being your next destination after having left behind the breathtaking temples of Cambodia and incredibly beautiful landscapes of Vietnam, you decided to combine business with pleasure as you stormed the manager’s office of The White Lotus – the biggest and probably most expensive resort in the area – the advertisement from the local newspaper, announcing that the hotel was looking for an English speaking service staff, clutched in your hand. 

You weren’t naive, nor were you particularly experienced or life hardened. Something in between. You were impulsive, stubborn and still liked to believe in stories where the good guys saved the world and won the princess, even if deep down you knew it not to be true.

“I don’t understand,” you murmur with slight puzzlement in your voice as your gaze shifts back to your moped. “Everything was perfectly fine when I parked it here this morning.”

“Let me see,” the smooth, velvety voice makes your stomach flutter as the engine goes silent and a pair of leather gloves land carelessly on the tank as their owner swings off the bike and moves toward you.

“You’re new here, I haven’t seen you before,” there is something in the way he looks at you that makes you feel both – a cold shiver creeping up your spine and heat hitting your cheeks.

New is quite a relative term. Yes, you’ve been here for just three weeks, yet you are perfectly aware who is the handsome owner of the only Harley Davidson for the miles around even if he has apparently remained oblivious to your very existence.

But you also have to admit that it is hard not to notice Valentin – the resort’s infuriatingly handsome health mentor and fitness guru, especially when he remains number one topic of nearly every piece of gossip going around. 

Last week he was spotted sneaking out in the middle of the night from the private villa of that arrogant rich bitch from South Dakota, the one who had been terrorising the whole hotel for weeks already – the pool wasn’t warm enough, the massage table was not comfortable, the food was terrible and God forbid she was served the wrong champagne with the oysters. It seemed almost like a miracle to see her smiling the next morning at breakfast. 

Then there was that rumor that the swollen lip and the spectacularly bruised eye of one of the hotel’s personal trainers had nothing to do with the alleged jump rope accident but rather with an argument about a stolen client, apparently ending with Valentin throwing a punch. Though no one could really confirm if that part was true, some still swore of having seen him leaving the gym with blood on his knuckles.

Ah, and, of course, there was the affair, or at least, that’s what the housekeeping staff whispered about after noticing how the resort owner’s wife, easily twice as young as her husband, by the way, had taken an unusual interest in the fitness center with private stretching lessons,  late-night sauna sessions and meditation practices once of a sudden becoming a regular part of her so called wellness routine. 

Yet, despite all the fuss, you have to admit you’ve never actually seen him be anything but polite and smiling. And you have seen him. Just like everyone else, you find it impossible to look away from that broad muscular chest when he strides through the resort only clad in his yogi pants, heading to greet the new arrivals, or from those flexing biceps when you happen to pass by the training ground with him having a course - not that you’d ever admit to staring or having actually no business around there during that time of the day.

A broad chest clad in a snug dark green t-shirt that does more to accentuate than cover the perfectly chiseled muscles beneath, moves past you and your gaze involuntary drops down and lands on his hand, the conversation from the previous day rushing back absolutely uninvited. 

“Have you noticed how big his hands are?” The question had made you freeze mid-motion, the pillowcase in your hands nearly slipping to the floor. 

“Huh?” You had blinked and raised your brow questioningly, turning to Pam, your coworker, a nice girl you became friends almost immediately. 

“You know what they say…,” she had leaned in, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper and giving you a knowing wink.

You had frowned, not really getting it this time, until Pam rolled her eyes, her cheeks already turning pink, as she cleared her throat. “The ones with big hands have big… you know… big khm…,” she had nodded meaningfully toward the lower part of her body.

It still had taken you a second before it finally clicked.

“Ahhh, you mean his dick,” you had said, watching as Pam practically choked on air, her face turning red as a beet, while you burst into laughter.

Yes, it is big. His hand.

“I’m Valentin,” he introduces himself, extending his hand like he expects you not to already know his name.

You hesitate for a second before shaking it, his grip is firm but warm, his somewhat rough fingers sending an unexpected jolt up your arm.

“I know,” you say, then immediately cringe at how blunt it sounds.

His smirk deepens, amusement flickering in those sharp eyes. “You know?”

You clear your throat, crossing your arms over your chest. “Everyone talks about you.”

“Good things, I hope?”

You let out a short laugh. “Depends on who you ask.”

He tilts his head, as if considering your words, then glances at your moped. “Well, I hate to break it to you, but this tire isn’t going to fix itself.”

You sigh, rubbing your temples. “Yeah, I figured. I just don’t understand – how does a perfectly fine tire suddenly go flat?”

Valentin crouches down, inspecting it. “Sometimes, it just happens. Heat, pressure, bad luck. Or…” He pauses, running a finger along the rubber.

You frown. “Or?”

He straightens, wiping his hands on his jeans. “Or someone let the air out.”

A chill prickles at your skin despite the humid air. “You think someone did this on purpose?”

“I think someone doesn’t want you going anywhere tonight,” his gaze shifts back to you, and his tongue flickers between his teeth as he licks his bottom lip. 

Shit, why does it look so fucking hot. That tongue can definitely do more. Wait, no, stop, you innerly slap yourself but it’s too late, the next thought is already there as you wonder – is it true, that thing about big hands and big… you know…

He heads back to his bike, and leans against it, arms crossed, watching you closely. “So… need a ride?”

Your heart stutters at the way he looks at you – his lips are smiling, but there is something in his eyes, something you can’t quite put your fingers on, something that makes you feel like a mouse before a big grinning cat.

You should say no, you should figure this out on your own, but the way he’s looking at you – the way he’s offering, like it’s not just a ride but something more – makes it very, very hard to refuse. 

Fuck it, we ball, you smile back at him and nod. “Yeah, that would be nice.”

—-----------------------------------------------------

“Take it easy, little doll, relax and enjoy the ride,” the hot whisper against your ear does exactly the opposite, you feel your heart racing even faster, each thumping beat pulsing between your legs, as you struggle to calm your breathing that threatens to spill into moans at any second if those thick fingers don’t stop their slow, torturous movement. 

“I… I can’t… Valentin, please…,” you breathe, your fingers gripping the edge of the table for support but your thighs part just a little wider beneath it.

The bar is dim, only the dance floor flashing in neon bursts, drawing all attention away from the shadowed corners and the shallow booths positioned along the walls with tables and red leather, plush and comfortable sofas - all tucked away in just barely enough secrecy to keep you somewhat hidden. A small mercy you feel thankful for, the sound of the pounding bass of the music  being another one, as it drowns out that moan you can’t bite back anymore as Valentin’s fingers push your panties aside, part from your pulsing clit and glide through your wet folds, to slid inside you with devastating ease. 

“You’re soaking, baby doll, just sitting here, waiting for daddy Valentin to take care of you, aren’t you?” That velvety voice edged with steel is killing you, not that those fingers inside you, curling, stretching, teasing, his thumb brushing firm, controlled circles against your clit, is making it any easier to gather any coherent thought. 

“Mmmmm… mmhhh,” is the only thing that rolls over your lips, your body reacts instinctively, muscles clenching around him, spine arching slightly against the seat as you melt into the sensation and sink back against the cushioned backrest, legs falling open just a little bit more, surrendering. 

Valentine’s other arm sneaks around your shoulders, pulling you closer, his lips brushing against your earlobe.

“Such a good girl, aren’t you?” he rasps. “Want me to ruin you, don’t you? Want me to fuck that tight, greedy pussy of yours, until you can’t walk anymore?”

“Ahh-ahhh,” your moan is barely muffled as his fingers curl against the wall of your core and press into that spot inside you that makes your vision blur and your toes curl. Oh, fuck, he’s good. 

The bar is full, the booth next to you crowded with a group of friends, laughing and clinking their glasses, but you don’t care. You can’t. Your head is spinning, thoughts dissolving, and every last bit of your self-control is fading away, all your senses dulled and consumed by the feeling of his fingers inside you, by that hypnotic voice dripping filth into your ear. 

How did you even end up here? The ride, the bike, your arms wrapped tight around his steel cut abdomen, holding for dear life – the memory is somewhat hazy, swept away in the whirlwind that is Valentin.  You can still feel the wind lashing against your skin, your breath stolen as you tucked yourself against his broad back.

“Wanna go out for a drink? You have a free day tomorrow, don’t you?” The question had sounded so casual but there was something in Valentin’s voice, some slight metallic tone, that  should have been a warning, a sign to you. 

“Yeah, sure! Why not?” words had left your lips too easily, although you couldn’t shake off the feeling like you were a prey stepping into a trap, absolutely willingly – if you wanted to be honest with yourself. 

Because of all the whispers that followed Valentin, one was clearly absent – he never went out with anyone from the staff, never even really flirted. Never. Not that they didn’t want him to. The majority of the serving staff being girls, you knew for sure that most of them would kill to go out with the dangerously handsome health mentor, but he never asked. Not until now, not until you.

And you were certainly not letting this chance slip away through your fingers, to see more of him in real life, outside the resort's controlled microclimate. Was it a Russian roulette you were playing? Absolutely, and you were all in for it. 

“Fuck… yes,... oh shit, it feels so good…,” your whines are swallowed by the pounding music, your body trembling as you feel his fingers move faster, expertly working you toward the edge and then you’re coming undone in a bar full of people, music thumping in your ears in sync with your rapid heartbeat. 

Your eyes are heavy and half lidded, head fallen back against the plush backrest, your panties are ruined, completely drenched, and your hips keep rocking instinctively chasing the pleasure he’s drawing out of you. Was this how you thought the evening would end? Fuck, yes! And something tells you it’s far from over. 

“Breathe, kitten,” Valentin’s voice is a dark purr in your ear and it slowly brings you back to reality, as he withdraws his fingers from you. You whine quietly, your thighs twitching at the loss, and your eyes flutter open, finding his gaze already on you. 

Valentin is watching you, a spark of satisfaction dancing in his gaze, his thumb brushes over your bottom lip, a teasing ghost of a touch, then he leans in.

“I want you to put that pretty mouth of yours to work, sweetheart. Will you do that for me?”

You sit up, straightening your spine as you reach for the champagne glass on the table, fingers slightly shaking. 

“Here?” you ask, turning to him. “You want me to give you head here, where everyone can see?”

“If you are up to it, baby doll,” Valentine’s smirk deepens, amusement dancing on his lips, and it just makes your heart skip a beat. 

“But I think you are very much enjoying this, aren’t you?” He leans closer, taking the glass from your fingers, lifting it to his lips and taking a slow, deliberate sip. 

Then, without breaking eye contact, he pulls you back against his chest, while his hand captures yours, guiding it downward and pressing your palm against the hardness straining beneath his pants.

“Look at what you’ve done to me.” 

Fuck, even through the thick fabric, he feels huge, and you can’t help but smirk as the thought slips in that it must be all true, that thing about the hands and the dicks.

Your eyes wander around the room, taking in how the dance floor pulses with bodies under shifting neon lights, the waitresses weaving between tables, laughter and music filling the air, you swallow harshly as the thought alone of sucking him off here practically in public in the tenuous cover of some shifting shadows sends a fresh surge of heat pooling in your core.

Your fingers already move on their own as the heavy buckle unfastens with a soft clink and the zipper parts beneath your touch. You slide a hand inside, wrapping around the length of him, drawing him out.

Valentin inhales drawing air through his teeth, a low growl rumbling in his chest, as your fingers tease over his leaking tip, his fingers weave through the strands of your hair with just enough force to make your scalp tingle, as his grip tightens and he urges you down, his silent command unmistakable.

You glance up at him, meeting his darkened gaze, the corner of his mouth lifts in amusement, watching you, waiting.

Your fingers trail along his length, teasing, feeling the weight of him in your palm. Fuck, he’s big, thick, hot, pulsing against your skin.

Slowly, you lean in, your lips parting as you let your tongue flick over the swollen tip, tasting the beads of precum gathering there and Valentin exhales sharply, a curse slipping from his lips.

"Good girl," he murmurs, his voice dissipating in the thumping bass of the music.

You take him deeper, wrapping your lips around him, savoring the way his breath hitches as he disappears into the wet heat of your mouth. 

“May I get you something else,” you hear the voice of the waitress through the haze and you freeze, unsure what to do, adrenaline surges through your veins, making your heart hammer in your chest. Panic and arousal clash violently inside you, but Valentin’s hand in your hair firmly keeps you exactly where he wants you and you don’t know what you feel more shame or the intoxicating thrill of surrender. The way he controls you, the way he holds you in place without a second of hesitation, sends a sensation through you that you've never felt before and it's rush is so deep it steals your breath.

“Thank you darling, we are well served,” his voice is smooth, utterly composed as if he weren't sitting here with his cock buried in your mouth. You can't see the waitress, your face covered by your disheveled hair, the footsteps fade away, and before you can even process what just happened Valentin guides you back down his cock, resuming the steady rhythm of your movements, and you can't but moan around him. Your tongue glides along the thick vein running down his length and you hollow your cheeks, taking him deeper, feeling him twitch against your tongue, his groan is low and guttural, barely restrained and that sound alone makes your core tighten with need.

"Just like that, kitten," he rasps, his hips jerking slightly, pushing himself further into your mouth, your own pulse pounds in your ears, matching the rhythm of the music, the sensation of him filling you overwhelming and electric. Your fingers tighten around the base of his cock as you set a steady pace, sliding up and down, working him with eager precision, and you feel his thighs tense beneath your touch, the muscles flexing under your fingers. 

You take him deeper, moaning around him, letting the vibration send a shudder through his entire body.

"Fucking hell…," Valentin’s hand tightens in your hair, his head falls back against the booth, his jaw clenched, his chest rising and falling unevenly, you can feel how close he is to letting go and coming undone right here and now, and that thought alone makes you throb between your legs, but before you can push him over that edge, he tugs you back by the hair, pulling you off him with a slick pop. Your lips are wet, swollen, and you look up at him, dazed, your breath coming in short gasps, Valentin smirks down at you, his chest heaving, his cock still thick and flushed in your hand.

"Naughty little thing," he murmurs, his thumb swiping over your bottom lip, his voice rough with barely-contained lust. "That was good. But I’m not done with you yet."

He drags you up, his mouth hovering just above yours, as he whispers. "Now, let’s see how well you take me when it’s your turn. Do you want daddy to fuck you? I know you do,” and before you can even respond, he’s already moving, pulling you into his lap, his strong hands gripping your hips as his fingers push your panties aside once more, the head of his cock is already at your entrance. 

“You know how to play this game, don’t you?” he asks, his mismatched eyes boring into you. You nod, swallowing hard.

“Your colour, baby doll?” 

You know exactly what he’s asking, your mind is hazy, body burning, every nerve tuned to him but there’s no fear, no hesitation, only raw, unfiltered desire.

“Green,” you breathe, and he pulls you down in one swift motion, burying himself inside you to the hilt.

A sharp gasp rips from your throat, your body shuddering as his thick shaft fills you completely in one go, while one of his hands wraps around your throat and the other digs into the soft flesh of your ass beneath your dress, and with that nothing else exists anymore.

The bar, the people, the distant pulse of the music, it all fades away, the only thing that matters is Valentin and his cock twitching inside you, stretching you just right, the firm grip on your throat owning you completely.

You don’t care about anything, there is no room for shame or doubt in your mind, it’s too overtaken by the indescribable pleasure of that simple feeling of giving up the control, of surrendering to that commanding voice and those mismatched stern eyes.

And then he fucks you, his hips thrust up into you, filling you deeper, harder, while his hand guide you, making you bounce on his cock, while his grip on your throat tightens—not too much, never too far—just enough to make your head spin in the best way, and soon, you're a mess, a drooling, moaning, wrecked mess.

—-----------------------------------------------------

When you open your eyes, the sunlight streaming through the curtains tells you it’s already well past midday.

Your head is heavy, your body sore in all the possible ways, and you have no idea how you got home, but here you are, back in your bed tucked beneath your light blanket.

You shift beneath the sheets, and that’s when you feel it, an arm draped around your waist and a firm chest pressed against your back.

Your breath catches, the memories of last night crash over you all at once, flooding your senses as you jolt upright, a soft, mortified moan slipping past your lips.

"Good morning, sweet baby doll," the voice is rich, smooth – so damn pleased with itself, you turn slowly, and there he is. Valentin, bare-chested, relaxed, watches you with that signature smirk that sends heat pooling low in your belly.

"Can I get you something for breakfast?" He stretches lazily, completely unbothered by your flustered state. "You must be starving."

[kickbackkanzaki]

The Dungeon Master and Chess Queen

You're the new student and chess captain at Hawkins High. When Eddie Munson asks you for tutoring you're certain you have him handled but you may have underestimated his strategy.

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

It was morning break on Monday when Eddie came to find you.

You and Max were enjoying the quiet isolation of the picnic bench Eddie usually dealt at. You were sitting lotus style on the table with your chess board set up mid game while Max read a graphic novel you'd found in a thrift store.

Eddie's boots made enough noise to announce himself but you were completely transfixed by the still pieces on their squares. Max saw Eddie but went back to reading without a word.

Today you'd separated her hair into multiple braids and woven them together into a crown. Eddie thought of suggesting you swap book selling for hairdressing but he supposed a legitimate business wouldn't supply the same thrill.

"Sinclair said you two sometimes come up here before class," Eddie tried to get your attention away from the stalled game. "I hope I'm not disturbing you guys and your invisible friend."

Max muttered something about Lucas being a snitch and went back to reading.

You were more polite lifting your eyes and smiled at your visitor.

"I was hoping to catch you actually," you said and motioned for Eddie to join you.

"Really?" Eddie asked suspiciously, "Most people don't say that."

"Do you have ten bucks?" you got the point before he could waffle on. "One of my clients stood me up so I'm short."

"Oh so that's how it works does it?" Eddie asked with mock indignation. "You think a hot time in the janitor's closet opens an account at the Bank of Munson? Well credit denied madam!"

"I left half my good lipstick on you!" you protested joining in the joke. "You owe me! They're quality cosmetics!"

"I'll pay that," Eddie conceded with a chuckle and passed you some crumpled notes from his vest pocket. "What are you buying?"

"Greyhound tickets to Detroit," you answered and smoothed the currency on your leg. "I'm playing at a tournament this weekend. I'll pay you back next week plus ten percent of anything I win."

"Done deal honey."

"Hey, ten bucks doesn't buy you familiarity," you warned jabbing the notes his way threateningly.

"We're beyond familiar babe," Eddie replied then turned to Max. "Scoot kid, I need to talk to your mum."

"Do what I've shown you Max," you sighed returning your attention to the board.

Max flipped Eddie off with both middle fingers and told him to, "Die in a fire."

"I see you're a big inspiration for the youth," Eddie remarked snidely as Max packed the graphic novel in her bag.

"Says the man running a cult," you countered and turned to Max who was on her feet. "You don't have to go because of this guy."

"I don't want to hang around for the pillow talk," Max grunted. "I'll see you later?"

"Yep. Science Lab B for chess at lunch. I have a new opening for you."

Max stomped away through the undergrowth and you were left alone with Eddie and the chess board.

"Did you say I was a cult leader?" he asked when Max was out of earshot.

"You're a charismatic guy with wild hair who recruits young people to join him in practices outside the mainstream and adorn themselves in matching garb," you answered with a small shrug. "Pretty apt description."

"That doesn't make me a cult leader," Eddie retorted and crossed his arms.

"Whatever you say," you said as a smile started rising on your lips. "Just don't run a Kool Aid stand at the next school carnival."

That tickled Eddie's macabre sense of humour and he had to laugh. He and his Hellfire Club had been called a lot of nasty things but no one had the nerve to tease him to his face.

Besides, coming from a chess captain it was insults amongst outcasts.

"What did you come here for Eddie?" you asked.

The bell would ring soon and you needed to cut the banter.

"I wanted to check how you were with the suspension and everything," Eddie slipped his long legs over the bench so he could sit near you. "I would have called but none of your friends would give me your number. Robin said I'd make heavy breathing calls."

"Probably best you didn't. Dad has a habit of answering and trapping people on the line," you admitted.

"Yeah I heard your dad's a little-" Eddie broke off when he saw your friendly expression suddenly drop and eyes narrow.

"Go on," you dared.

"Never mind," Eddie was smart and changed the subject. "How much trouble did I get you in?"

"Got me in?" you nose crumpled from your confused expression. "I got you in trouble, I undid your pants to conceal my controversial library."

"Which I made you show me," Eddie interjected.

"Let's not squabble over details," you said rubbing your temples. "All Dad asked was who I was kissing and why so nothing came of it."

"He was cool with you kissing me? Really?"

One time he had seen his lab partner with her mother at the supermarket and had helped load their shopping onto the conveyor belt. Come Monday he was reassigned a new lab partner because the mother didn't want her daughter subjected to a "long haired thug" who would destroy her chemistry grade.

"A really nice guy who helped prevent a book burning? What's the problem with that?" you asked with open hands.

Eddie was rarely silent so you worried he was catatonic by the way he stared at you blankly while the birds chirped and trees rustled around you.

He thought your fiery defense of his character in the principal's office had stemmed from your need to rebel against Higgins, not genuine faith in his character.

He could count on one hand those who would stand up for him.

"Eddie?"

"Um yeah," Eddie came back online and blinked a few times to dissolve the glassiness of eyes. "I was wondering something else while you're here."

Your stomach began to twist and you held your breath. You'd been worrying about this possibility during your suspension, that Eddie would mistake your cunning romantic ruse for something real.

Something he would want to pursue.

"I hear you do some tutoring for the middle schoolers," Eddie continued before he lost his nerve. He never like admitting he was vulnerable. "I was wondering if maybe you could help me out with a few subjects?"

"Oh, yeah, sure," you stumbled through your quick reply. "We can sort something."

The bell rang and you both leapt into action relieved to end the awkward conversation. You had been rehearsing the 'Let's Be Friends' speech since the weekend and were elated to now know it wasn't needed.

Eddie was likewise pleased as he's half expected you to be contemptuous. He hadn't been suspended like you, he'd spent the last week in after school detentions where he'd asked around about the impressive grades Principal Higgins had mentioned.

Apparently you would be this year's valedictorian if only you could tell people to fuck off less. Hawkins High was not going to let you make the graduation speech for the Class of 86.

One of his fellow reprobates mentioned his younger brother was getting tutoring from you and Eddie started to think. He could feel this was going to be his year and now he knew why, the universe had brought you to him.

Eddie helped you pack up the board and offered a gentlemanly hand to help you off the table.

"Who won?" he asked showing his good mood. "You or Mr Invisible?"

"I lost that one," you admitted as you made your way down the hill together. "I was trying to find where they first made the play I didn't see."

"Who in the club beat you?" he asked curiously.

"That was a match from a local tournament three years ago. I like to go over my old games and analyse my opponent's strategies," you explained.

"You're shitting me," Eddie scoffed as the prison of Hawkins High came into view. "You can't remember the layout from that long ago."

"I shit you not," you countered and gave him a dead serious look. "I remember all my games. Even my first one."

That sounded incredibly spurious but somehow Eddie could believe it. He'd never seen you play but an amateur wouldn't take a six hour bus to play chess against strangers on a weekend.

"Well you better give me a kiss before we go to class," Eddie said changing the subject as you walked into the building.

"Pardon me?" you asked amazed at his hubris.

This guy had some serious balls if he thought you were going to dish out kisses like lollipops on vaccine day.

"The Eye on Sauron is upon us babe which means-"

"Principal Higgins is watching us for any further sign of felonious behaviour," you translated before you got buried in Tolkien theology. "So we best feed the gossip mill who will quilt us a cover with their vicious whispers and spiteful stories. I read Lord of the Rings too."

"Baby I'm not sure if you can get any hotter right now," Eddie purred silky and leaned in for the kiss.

Your lipstick printed on his mouth and you slipped a hand around his neck to feel the smooth skin under his jacket collar. There was no passion in the exchange but you had to admit the way Eddie brushed your hair behind your ear with his calloused guitarist's fingers wasn't entirely unpleasant.

You received a few catcalls and crude comments then pulled away from each other.

Mission successful.

Eddie had such a smug smile on his handsome face you couldn't let him swagger away in victory.

"Tolkien was overrated," you whispered in his ear and wiggled your butt so it suggested you were promising future favours. "Too many descriptions of fucking trees."

Eddie's nostrils flared like an enraged bull's and he opened his mouth to destroy you but your hand was already moving towards the winning move.

"I'm gonna eat this for lunch!" you yelled over the student herd migrating around you and gave Eddie's crotch a tight squeeze.

The crowd went wild with whoops and shouts and you held the delicate bulge just long enough for an appropriate amount of people to witness it.

Eddie was frozen in place and his bag slipped from his shoulder landing on the floor spilling his pens and books. His mind couldn't comprehend what was going on but his cock could.

The warmth and strength of your grip had opened the hormone floodgates and blood rushed straight into his length. You'd let go but his dick was crying out for more like a semaphore flag waving frantically for attention.

"Don't leave me hungry baby!" you hollered and ran towards your history class.

Checkmate.

[ddarker-dreams]

Nexus II.

Yandere Blade x F Reader.

Warnings: Descriptions of Blade's body regeneration ability, Blade is just kinda weird idk, some spoilers for his backstory. Word count: 6k.

Nexus index.

The LOTUS-EATER’s maximum capacity tops out at 124. This number takes current fire codes and oxygen generator parameters into account. There are eight Arbiters — including yourself — and fifteen other employees who work The Club floor on rotation. Additionally, some automatons assist with carrying refreshments to clients. Lucky for you, those fellas aren’t on the payroll. 

The other twenty-two are, though. 

Nona swings her legs back and forth while sitting on the main bar’s countertop, humming a song from an underground band she likes. She’s sent you a link to their discography enough times that you recognize the URL immediately and know not to tap on it. 

“Hey, mom, dad, we’re on the news. ‘IPC Places Eris Under Temporary Travel Ban While Investigating Claims of Fraud’. Why didn’t anyone tell me we were doing fraud? Was I not invited to the group chat?” Nona hums. 

You glance up from your account book, sigh, then glance back down.

Meanwhile, Lear carries a hefty wooden crate from the back and places it on the floor. The sound of muffled glass clinking together can be heard, along with liquid sloshing.

“You shouldn’t make jokes like that,” he frowns. He shoos her off the counter with a wet rag, to which she takes refuge behind you. He rolls his eyes at her shenanigans, ties up his sandy hair, then gets to cleaning. “People could get the wrong idea. It’d tarnish [First]’s reputation.” 

Snickering, she replies, “And casually referring to Our-Lord-And-Savior-The-Exalted-One by her first name wouldn’t?” 

He bristles. “You…!” 

On instinct, he winds up his arm, wielding the now dirty rag as his ammunition. He pauses when Nona points at you. Seeing that there’s no way to hit his target without you joining the casualties, he huffs, and returns to shining glasses, using excessive force this time. 

Nona sticks her tongue out at him. After celebrating her victory, she situates herself on a nearby barstool, stretching her arms out beside your workspace like a content cat preparing to nap. 

“You’ve been staring at that silly book forever,” she notes, exasperation coloring her tone. “I know you aren’t reading it, either. Your eyes give you away. So, what’s up?” 

You shuffle in your seat. This line of questioning was inevitable as the four moons that hang everlasting in the sky, taking in everything as impartial observers. During instances like this, you envy the marvelous masses, how they can exist peacefully without living. No one asks the moon troubling questions. Or, if they do, they have more pressing issues at hand than their spoken query. 

“It’s nothing,” you dismiss. 

She blows a tuft of hair from her face. “Hey, Lear.”

“Mm?”

“Did you hear that?”

“Well, yes, I’m only standing a few feet away.” 

“Right, right. Let me ask a trickier question then, since that one was obviously way too easy for someone of your intellect. Do you believe her?”

“I…” he swallows thickly. “... Yes?”

Nona throws her arms up. “Gah! I’m surrounded by liars who can’t lie. That’s almost worse than liars who can lie— blegh, hey, did you actually throw a rag at me?” 

The rag in question slides down the side of her head and hits the ground with a sad squelch. 

“I’ll do it again too. You shouldn’t bother [First]—” Lear abruptly cuts himself off at the last syllable of your name, “The exalted one when she’s trying to concentrate.” 

You raise your head and frown. “Lear, I told you. Call me by my name when it’s just us. It feels wrong if you don’t.” 

“Seriously? That’s what gets your attention?” Nona laments. 

You both elect to ignore her. 

“I know, I know. It’s just… what if he comes back?” 

Silence descends and clings to the three of you like the suffocating scent of smoke. It’s there again, the uncomfortable, skin-prickling sensation of eyes sticking to you. Amber and sapphire coalesce into one, unspoken plea, forming a disconcerting shade. Nona’s visage betrays nothing, whereas Lear’s concern would be obvious from galaxies away. 

You square your shoulders and try to make yourself appear as decisive as you need to sound. “I’ll know when he’s back. He’ll text so I can let him in.” 

The two exchange knowing looks. It’s Nona who tries her luck. 

“That’s reassuring and all, but, I think the question Lear wanted to ask is why that man’s here in the first place.” 

Magenta eyes, rosy iris’, words that drip like venom-coated honey. 

When you asked how you should explain Blade’s presence to your staff, she told you she’d hate to abuse her authority, and that you’re free to decide those specifics yourself. You would’ve preferred some guidance or hint at her expectations in such a pivotal situation. It’s easier to avoid a landmine if you know how to best watch your step. The uncharacteristic lack of instructions goes on to birth unease. 

“My answer hasn’t changed. He’s here to act as my bodyguard until some concerns are settled.” 

Nona’s lips twist to the side. “You never wanted a bodyguard before.” 

“I never needed one before.” 

A glass shatters violently. 

You and Nona snap your head toward the noise’s origin, finding Lear’s face wound tight in pain. You both jump the counter. The remains of crystal shards are strewn across the floor, catching and refracting light. Watching your step, you make your way over to Lear, who is muttering expletives under his breath. 

No, that isn’t right, you realize. His lips aren’t moving. 

“I’m fine, I’m fine,” he tries waving off Nona, who is inspecting the hand that held the glass, “Just an accident, s’all.” 

The private tumult boiling in his head threatens to overflow, stating loud and clear thoughts no one other than himself should be privy to. You grimace and focus on blocking the intrusive voice out. It’s so resounding, so sharp, that snippets penetrate through and spill their scathing secrets.  

‘My fault — should’ve killed — now she’s — because of me…!’ 

Block it out, block it out, block it out, you chant the mantra incessantly. 

Lear’s psyche wishes to illuminate itself to you in its entirety. The spotlights turn on one by one, focusing intently on the visible portion of the stage that any audience member can see. The overlapping beams penetrate the stage’s back curtain, revealing the silhouettes of the backstage crew. 

You don’t want to witness these delicate inner workings. It isn’t for your eyes, his thoughts aren’t for your ears. Sins committed in days past grant you a front-row seat and sew your eyes wide open. You haven’t attended this theater in some time, so it brought the show to you. 

It requires great effort to struggle against the needle and thread that wants to practice its stitches on you. This pain that feels like your skull is being crushed beneath an anchor could ease away if you were a good audience member who sat still and mute. You resist subservience at the cost of yourself. Eventually, the lights dim. The stage’s back curtain turns opaque. The actors shift their shouts into a normal speaking volume, a whisper, then finally, stop orating altogether. 

Your mind’s dictation is decided by you — the ink of Lear’s thoughts expunged. 

You’re aware of your physical surroundings again. 

Presently, you’re crouching down on the floor. You move your foot back to maintain balance, and there’s a crunch, warning you to tread carefully. You inhale and exhale shakily. At this sign of lucidity, Nona and Lear crowd over you, repeating your name on a loop. You check twice to ensure their mouths are indeed moving and you aren’t hearing what you shouldn’t. Once you dispel your fears, relief embraces you. 

This paroxysm has run its course.

Nona’s shoulders slump. “It’s okay, it’s over. She fixed it.” 

They both hold their breath until you nod in agreement. 

Lear extends his hand to help stand you up, to which Nona swats at it. 

“No touching,” she reminds. Sternness doesn’t sound right in her cadence. He considers arguing, only to decide against it. His fingers twitch, go still, then recede. 

You have to stand on your own strength. 

Neither of them knows what to say in the immediate aftermath — it’s been so long that they’re out of practice. While they think over the best-sounding platitudes, you spare your phone a glance. Several messages mar the screen from an unknown sender. The most recent is time-stamped at five minutes ago. 

You grumble a few choice words. 

“Mr. Personality is back?” Nona asks. 

“Yeah, I’ll handle it,” you close your account book and fold it under your arm. “You both should head home, it’s late. Just let Loopy take care of the glass shards.” 

Nona gives a mock salute. After a moment’s consideration, Lear nods. 

And so the three of you part ways. 

Your fingers blindly grope at the expanse beneath your desk. Finally, you come in contact with a protrusion, then press it. Electricity thrums then turns hushes. For peace of mind, you glide your hand through the air. A holographic keyboard flickers into existence and responds to your vigorous keystrokes. The monitor reads that your noise-canceling software is up to date. It prevents sound waves from escaping a perimeter you’ve set. It’s installed in every room on the second floor, which includes the private rooms in The Lounge, your office, and the bedroom attached to said office. 

Ever since Kafka started slinking around, the software’s uptime has increased exponentially. 

Unlike Kafka, Blade doesn’t sit across from you or relax on the couch against the silver-colored wall. He stands by the door that leads to the hallway like a statue. He hasn’t so much as uttered a word to you since you let him in, not that you put in much effort to rouse conversation. It isn’t as childish as him ignoring you, either, you swear his eyes haven’t left you for a millisecond. 

The keyboard and monitor dissipate at the flick of your wrist. 

“I know I said I didn’t have anything major scheduled this week, but the IPC’s new policy changes things,” you start. Still no reaction. Frowning, you continue, “I’ll have to break the house arrest you’ve imposed.” 

He doesn’t so much as blink. You thought a little provocation might earn you some material to work with, but you thought wrong. 

“Who will be there?” Blade asks. 

Instead of experiencing relief that he’s broken his vow of silence, tension coils its barbed limbs around you. It refuses to squeeze or apply any pressure. No, it intentionally denies you that, for it knows pain precedes understanding. A motive, an intention. Any degree of emotion is better than an unknowable void. Frustration, you can soothe, doubt, you can dispel, but total apathy? That’s a nightmare crossed into reality. 

“The other two leaders of the quadrants and myself.” 

At long last, there's a sign he is indeed a sentient lifeform and not the latest android model. A flash passes over his eyes. Suspicion or disbelief, perhaps. 

“Shouldn’t there be four leaders, if the city’s divided into quadrants?” 

“That’s a fair assumption. As far back as our records date, the southwestmost quadrant, Arc, has rejected the idea of having any fixed governance. They act however they see fit. It’s where that man who attacked me a few cycles back was sent to, since we look down on involuntary confinement.” 

“The prison planet without prisons,” Blade’s wry wording belies his flat tone. 

It’s always been a divisive topic, earning scorn and acclaim alike. You’ve had the misfortune of listening to clients regurgitate talking points that were made digestible by popular media, who started the cycle by devouring journal articles they read one paragraph of. They repeat what’s been said thousands of times with the bravado of the original theorist. Normally, you’d consider it more agreeable to bash your head against a wall than speak on the exhausted topic. 

So why is it a kindling of intrigue burns by a Stellaron Hunter’s offhand comment? 

“What’s this? The wanted criminal isn’t a proponent of prison abolition?” 

“Every decision comes at a price,” he says. “Sins should be punished.” 

You blink. Sins? Punishment? Is this a textbook case of cognitive dissonance, or another beast entirely? 

“What do you consider a sin?” 

“Anything that defies the natural order.” 

“Such as…?” 

The maelstrom that envelops him is potent enough for you to feel it breathing down your neck. Your body prickles all over. 

“Defying death.” 

“Not inflicting it?” 

“No,” Blade’s response is immediate, straight from the heart. “Taking life is permissible. It’s accelerating the inevitable.” 

This callous sentiment should chill you — maybe it would, if you heeded the alarm bells ringing in your mind — but fascination triumphs over any deterrent. This isn’t a creed one stumbles into by happenstance, it’s a burden made to order. His preoccupation with death is personal. A necessity. 

“Show me what it’s like to die.”

Is this request self-flagellation or redemption? 

If you’re ever to fulfill the Synalink you promised, you’ll need to dig deeper. 

“There are ‘sins’ committed with altruistic intentions, though.” 

“Hah,” he barks out a bitter laugh. “Those… those are the worst kind.” 

This is a personal slight he’s grappling with. The shards scattered around him like stardust condense, though the sight they create remains out of focus. It doesn’t have to be a sharp picture for you to discern its immense stature. 

Each person’s psyche is distinct in its manifestation. This image is a culmination of everything that defines them. Their core values, history, relationships, culture, ambitions both met and not fully realized; these colors leave an indelible imprint. In truth, this detailed representation is but a single dot amidst an ocean of stars. The mind of a sentient being must be vast if it is capable of ascending to an Aeon’s status. Still, you need something to work with, even if it doesn’t encompass the full scope. A pianist cannot play their instrument if there are no keys. 

This scale, this sheer magnitude that towers higher the more you crane your neck up, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever encountered. 

“... You’re going to give me a run for my money, Mr. 8.13 billion,” you murmur. “Your head looks like a warzone.” 

He leans against the wall with a hmph.

“With all your impending problems, that’s what you choose to focus on?” 

“I can multitask.” 

“Can you?” He challenges. Sensing your confusion, he elaborates. “You look awful.” 

Blade must be irresistible across all genders with that nuanced level of word crafting. 

“I appreciate your candidness,” you deadpan. 

He shakes his head at your sarcasm. “Don’t act obtuse. Your complexion’s off, your eyes are bloodshot… everything was fine when I left. Must have something to do with your earlier delay, I take it?” 

You underestimated his acumen. This would explain why he’s been sizing you up since you opened the door. His sword proficiency isn’t the only threat you should be wary of. You know to be mindful of your presentation when Kafka’s skulking about, you didn’t think he’d need to be treated with a similar caution.

“It’s nothing serious, just your typical mental overexertion. There’s a lot on my plate, you said so yourself.” 

“Hm.” 

Whether he believes you or not, the conversation is left at that. 

Transportation on Eris functions differently than what’s commonly found in other worlds. 

Traditional gas-based motors aren’t favored due to the frigid climate. Instead, a gemstone mined in the Nectary by vetted groups is the preferred resource. It contains special thermodynamic properties that can emit immense power under the correct conditions. The gemstones have been altered and assembled in such a way that they function as a railroad for insulated cabins to travel from one station to another. These paths were nicknamed 'nectar guides’ or ’guides’ by the first engineers to embed them in the ground. This is in reference to how the eight main paths lead to Perianth II’s center, built above the Nectary. 

The design serves a dual purpose — it optimizes travel and the heat radiating from the ground produces light. The accommodations have outworlders in mind. Your species, the Nymphalians, have long undergone enough natural selection to survive the hostile conditions fine enough. Your species’ eyesight excels in the dark and your physiology resists the cold. Aside from that, your body functions identical to any other humanoid species. The lone visible difference is a thin white ring around most Nymphalians’ iris’. You and Lear display this quality, Nona does not. 

The cabin you sit in has a quaint design. There are plush, brown loveseats lining the wall, glowing orange lights in the arched ceiling, and light refreshments atop wooden table stands. It’s split into a common area and a bedroom suite. More enchanting than any ornate embellishment are the expansive windows. You only get to see your quadrant in person during these trips to Perianth II’s center and back. 

“You warm enough?” You call over to Blade, who is bundled in extra layers of clothes and wearing an especially dour expression. 

He doesn’t dignify your quip with a verbal reply. 

This brief jaunt has earned his ire. For someone who’d likely prefer to be anywhere else, he’s taking this guard assignment quite seriously. He explained that taking this straightforward travel route begs for people with nefarious intent to come slithering out. You could see his point, but the matter isn’t up for dispute. Recent cyberattacks have called electronic communication into question. What you’ll be discussing with the others — Chrysus of Ade and Caicias of Mele — is highly sensitive information. The IPC catching any sliver of it could prove disastrous. 

“You shouldn’t be by the windows,” Blade eventually says.

“Has anyone ever told you that you’re a major buzzkill?” 

Unsurprisingly, he doesn’t respond. 

With some reluctance, you pry yourself away from the glass granting access to the outside world. 

“... Just a bit longer?” You try plucking a sympathetic cord he distinctly lacks. 

“If you like it so much, why not experience it in the safety of your room where your head is a less visible target?”  

“It isn’t possible to perform a Synalink on yourself.” 

“Have an underling do it.” 

The presumptions air to this suggestion eliminates any grace you may have extended.

“The only other Arbiter capable of performing Synalinks on me was my mother,” you say. “Note the past tense.” 

You experience a phantasmal ripple with him as the epicenter. It’s the weakest emotion you’ve inadvertently picked up from him, so you assume it’s nothing of consequence. 

“Passing blurs aren’t worth risking your life over.” 

You rise to your feet. 

“How do you know that?” You challenge, heat rushing to your cheeks. “These homes, these buildings, these streets… they’re either data on my screen or conveyed to me through someone who acts like they’re listing parts in a machine. I have to see it. I have to commit each ‘passing blur’ to memory. Otherwise…” 

What have I sacrificed my freedom for? 

Blade’s eyebrows furrow. 

“Otherwise…” you shake your head. “Forget it.” 

During the ensuing silence, your phone buzzes. 

You had set it on do not disturb for the upcoming meeting. A few contacts were granted an exception, meaning that this message must be urgent if it went through. You swallow the lump growing in your throat. An exhausted part of yourself reasons that it can wait until the meeting’s conclusion. It wouldn’t do you any good to get worked up beforehand, would it? The message will still be there when it’s finished. Then you’ll be able to commit all your bandwidth to its contents. This reasoning is a tempting mistress cooing at you to come join her in bed. The momentary relief will be as sweet as the aftertaste is bitter. 

Responsibility triumphs in the end. After inputting the necessary passcodes, a message four words long scrawls across your screen.

The product is ready. 

A simple code had been devised between you and the alchemist entrusted with testing Kafka’s synthetic tonic. The product isn’t ready yet would mean the sly woman bluffed, or at the very least, exaggerated her 70% comparison claim. You’d gladly take either. She’s sewn deceit before, she’d have no trouble doing it again. In case the alternative was true, you prepared another code; the code you just received. 

You reread it once. Twice, then thrice. You check if the message came from the right number. It did. You check again. 

This frantic fixation consumes you to such a degree, you don’t register the cabin jerking aside. The delay from your reflexes throws your equilibrium off. Squeezing your eyes shut, you brace yourself for an unceremonious rendezvous with the floor. Your right side does come into contact with a hard surface, except it’s sooner than you anticipated. Warmer, too. 

This heat is different from what’s produced inside the Nectary’s gemstones. It’s personal, containing the distinct thrum of life. There’s also an aroma. Slightly floral, mostly spices you don’t recognize. Then there’s this steady sound — consistent enough to put a metronome to shame. A slow thump, thump, thump. 

“How have you survived this long, clumsy as you are?” 

Blade isn’t speaking any louder than he normally would, but you can hear him better. 

“Hey, I’m… not… clumsy…?” 

It’s only when you open your eyes that you’re able to piece together your current predicament. 

Blade’s steadying you by your shoulders and your cheek is pressing against his chest. You always knew he was tall, but having him tower over you this close gives you a new perspective. As does the fact he doesn’t immediately shove you off after breaking your fall. Your body goes stiff enough to rival rigor mortis.

“Accident prone, then.”  

This swipe has you desperate to reaffirm your authority. “You should’ve just… let me fall then! Maybe I wanted to, what do you know!” 

(It sounded better in your head). 

“Are you positive you’re over a century old?” 

An equally snarky rebuttal blooms on your tongue, only to immediately wither, turning to ash that coats the ground. 

There’s the sound of a dying star, a dirge announcing the end. 

What one hears before their name is reduced to an epitaph or an alphabetized list neatly organizing the recently deceased. It’s loud, then it isn’t. Hideous, then hypnotizing. Yellows and oranges and reds swirling in a serpentine motion that mocks you for thinking you ever conquered it. Civilizations can temporarily subdue it, bend it to their will, but it’s not ever truly theirs. The sovereignty of flame is a dynasty everlasting. It may rise, it may fall, but it can’t ever be truly extinguished. 

You’re sent flying back with enough power that the air is forced from your lungs. It’s as if an Aeon’s hand had pushed your body aside, dragging you to the edge of the universe. You’re released from the scorching maw and into an icy nothingness. 

The planet itself is frozen for a time. 

There’s no strength in your body. Your system has been injected with pure, raw adrenaline, causing your limbs to shake and ignore your commands. Your ears are ringing and your eyesight is blurry. Tears cleanse the pollutants from your eyes. A dark swath covers your body, its weight hindering your feeble attempts to move. Determination alone wills you to emerge from this shadowy cocoon. 

The ringing fades and all is quiet, save for the crackling of fire. 

Then the screaming begins. 

You try identifying the source. You think you may have found it, then it starts elsewhere, a different pitch, a different soul lot in lament. Bloodcurdling shrieks rise alongside the thick smoke. You’re being a stretch of buildings that loom imposingly, obsidian spires reaching up to the night sky. The masonry required to maintain their reign basks in the flames. The unusual surplus of light unveils its secrets, from the cracks in the stone to the faded graffiti bored kids left behind. 

The ground is uneven, unlike the glossy pavement found in the entertainment district. This dull, grayish-blue soil with the consistency of fine powder exhibits the true nature of Eris’ untreated exterior. It’s cool to the touch and takes pleasure at the chance to stain your fine clothes. 

Your wandering mind is brought back upon hearing a sputter nearby. You’re not sure where you are, what you’re doing, or why you’re doing it; but you remember you weren’t alone. 

“Blade…” The name comes out as a croak. “Where…?” 

You can’t call out to him, it’s like cotton has been stuffed down your esophagus. 

There’s movement in the corner of your eye. 

You make the mistake of trying to stand. Your arms might’ve begun to heed your commands, but your legs do not. The worst insurrectionists are your ankles. The instant you try putting any weight on them, they collapse as if you were a newborn doe. Recognizing this strategy’s incompetence, you drag yourself over to where you saw movement instead. The coarse ground rubs at and scratches your skin. 

Upon closer inspection, your heart stops. 

The dark swath — that’s Blade. 

He’s in a far worse state than you. His entire backside has been scorched, displaying angry red blisters and split skin just barely hanging on. His right arm is bent in an awkward position, most certainly broken. Then there’s his left arm, or lack of it. Clumps of limp sinew hang where his arm should be joined to his shoulder joint. The force of the impact must’ve blown it off or eviscerated it entirely. 

He’s lying on his side, facing away from you. A pool of blood forms beneath him, mixing with the soil. The coupling results in a sickly mauve that creeps and seeps inch by inch. 

The fire… it’s coming from the guides, you realize. The cabin has been torn to pieces!

This begs the question: how are you alive? 

You should be covered in burns at the very least. Some of your clothes got charred, you think a rib or two might be broken, but you’re living and breathing. There’s a gap in your memory where the previous events should be. You try recalling whatever you can, no matter how seemingly insignificant. You were moved aside as the roaring got louder, and then there was the sound of glass shattering, heat to cold… 

Blade must have intervened. Did he use the few seconds before the fire caught up to break the window and toss you out? That can’t be right; you’d have glass entrenched in your skin and burns on whichever side faced the explosion. Surely, with his inhuman reflexes, he could’ve come out relatively unscathed. 

Unless he chose to shield you. 

You don’t think, you just act. First, by tearing the hem of your long skirt, then second, pressing it against the gaping wound where his shoulder abruptly ends. Gushes of crimson spill through your first makeshift bandage. You throw it aside, rip at your garments again, repeating the process in a desperate attempt to stop the bleeding. A Stellaron Hunter must have a robust constitution, right? He was able to act faster than you could think. He can survive this — you just need to stop the bleeding until you can get help. Kafka has to have connections with advanced medical factions. 

Tears stream down your face and you sniffle relentlessly. Your hands are caked in soot and blood, the scent of burnt skin and metal clings to your nostrils. Is he going to die? Is he already dead? You can’t bring yourself to check his pulse. How could he be willing to die for you in the short period of time you’ve known one another? He could’ve concocted any excuse for why he failed Kafka’s assignment, you’re certain he’s more indispensable to their cause than you are. 

Blade stirs. 

You think that it’s your imagination playing tricks on you. A cruel joke to remind you that you make your living off shaping reality for others, temporarily giving them what they want at the price of never truly having it. 

Or so is your conviction until he moves again. 

You’ve heard of muscles twitching after death to give the false impression of life. However, you’ve never witnessed the phenomenon yourself. Is this how it works? It isn’t sporadic, his right arm is sweeping over the ground, fingers flexing. Much to your astonishment, he pushes himself up with the arm that was contorted into a horrible shape a minute ago. The pain he’s experiencing must be excruciating and yet he merely grunts as he shifts into a sitting position. 

“Stop moving,” you rasp out. With your most recent bandage in hand, you go to apply pressure to the left arm socket. 

He responds to your fervent desperation in a low, gravelly voice. 

“Don’t bother.” 

Don’t bother? Is he in a coherent state of mind? If you don’t attend to his gushing wound, he’s at risk of bleeding out. You prepare to ignore his utterance when a strange sight freezes you in place. 

A white structure emerges from his raw, mangled arm socket, descending like water pouring from a pitcher. It solidifies and takes the shape of a humerus. Once finished, it goes on to create the radius and ulna. Next are the carpals, metacarpals, then phalanges. Tendons join them together, fibrous muscles envelop the bones. Finally, in the blink of an eye, fresh layers of skin build atop one another in sheets. He clenches and unclenches his newly formed hand. 

If defying death is a sin, he is laden in iniquity.

“What hurts?” Blade asks. 

You’re too aghast to respond. His body just stitched itself back together without any medical treatment or esoteric healing techniques. Is it possible you’re hallucinating? Can a visual hallucination be this vivid? 

He reaches out. Seconds prior to his hand coming into contact with your bare skin, you furiously shake your head, flailing backward and narrowingly avoiding him. His eyes bore down on you like molten magma. He retracts his hand after a drawn-out pause. 

“If you can’t speak, point instead.” 

Dazedly, you follow his instructions, focusing primarily on your ankles. They’ve swollen since you last checked. The flesh is tender and puffy. 

“I’ll carry you,” he says. “Stay still.”

“Wait,” you manage to wheeze out. “This area… residential… have to help…!”

A coughing spell cuts your hoarse plea short. 

“That explosion was meant for you. Whoever set it off will want to ensure their job’s success.”

Blade reaches out for you again. You duck to avoid his grasp, despite the pain throbbing in your chest cavity from the hasty movement. The adrenaline must be fading if your brain is doing inventory on the damage you’ve sustained, rather than focusing on survival. Hot waves test your resolution. You grit your teeth. If you make a show of your pain, he’s not going to change his decision. 

He speaks your name in a low, warning tone. 

Adamant in your refusal, you point to where the cries for help are the loudest. 

“It’s not my priority,” he says. 

He easily grabs you on his third try and you yelp. The sluggishness of his previous attempts must've been out of consideration for you. His right arm interlocks behind your knees while the left supports your back. You thrash to no avail, his grip remains ironclad. Your struggles amount to nothing but perspiration clinging to your skin and more aches. 

The nearest medical unit to this street is at least thirty minutes away, now that the guides are out of order, you think. That isn’t fast enough…! Every second counts!

In your panic, a sacred vow made decades ago is desecrated. 

You cup Blade’s face in your shaky hands and stare him straight in the eye. 

The previously formed shards come into focus.

It’s monumental, this psyche you’ve barged into without permission. A violation of another’s autonomy. You know this, you condemn yourself for it, yet you press on nevertheless. The previously unknowable architecture that hulks over you is of Xianzhou design. It’s pieced together by bricks as infinite as the stars in the universe, though there is no magnificent shine, only matte stonework. 

This structure… is it a garrison? You wonder. Was Blade a member of the… what’s the name of their military again… Cloud Knights? 

You’ve had Cloud Knight clients before. Their psyches take the likeness of their favorite, scenic expanse on the Hexafleet, the area that they cared for enough to risk their life. The skies would be blue, clouds fluffy and prolific. A sense of duty and patriotism felt palpable. Occasionally, you’d be made privy to grief’s scent carried on a breeze, perhaps from a loved one’s passing or comrade’s untimely death in battle. 

This is a riddle you need to solve swiftly. With a little tampering, you can form a link. It’s immoral, a blight to your personal code, but you’ll leverage enough influence for Blade to stay and help any survivors until help arrives. Whatever consequences arise can be dealt with later. 

Even with the heightened mental sensitivity from making direct physical contact, this is proving a challenge. You can see his psyche but you can’t interact with it. It’s like running your hands through vapor. For you to successfully exert enough influence to change a decision he’s dead set on, you’ll need to go deeper. Inside this fortress sits the recesses of his mind, the bottom of an ocean you’re merely skimming the surface of. The intrusion’s necessity twists your gut as if your intenses were being kneaded. 

Your incorporeal form flutters to the gates, standing solitary against a leaden backdrop. 

The closer you get, you become increasingly aware of a malicious entity permeating behind the doors which strain to contain it. This is the same harrowing presence you felt when he protected you from Alister. Now that you’ve spent more time with Blade, you can discern its essence is different from his, although they’re forcibly intertwined like a rope. Blade emanates this unremittingly morose energy. It’s bleak, unconcentrated. 

This substance oozes a need to satiate bottomless bloodlust. It wants to sink its teeth into flesh, lacerate muscles, and slice through bone. Mayhem and viscera are its highest raison d'être. There’s no sensibility, no reasoning with it, it acts in one way then shifts on a whim; chaos inside a splintering bottle. 

How is Blade capable of functioning with this slumbering beast ready to wreak havoc at any second? 

Steeling your resolve, you prepare to enter.

A seal halts your progress. 

Impatience urges you to dispel it. Blade’s psyche is rejecting you, any further delays will give it ample opportunity to flush you out. 

The kaleidoscopic seal thrums and wards off your efforts. 

Someone put this here, you discern. It’s deliberate. 

What perplexes you is that the seal prohibits entry yet does nothing to contain the miasma writhing behind it. Wouldn’t whoever created it intend to keep that salivating beast at bay? It’s well-crafted too, denying your every attempt to eliminate it. Kafka dabbles in mind-altering. Could she have left this here? You know what her aura feels like — calm, confident, cunning — this seal radiates none of her trademarks. 

An invisible force hauls you back. 

You took too long — Blade’s psyche is expelling the foreign invader. 

You blink and you’re back in reality. 

Blade is grimacing, the lines on his face highlighted by flickering flame. There’s a pallor to his complexion brought on by the aggressive expulsion his mind pulled off. An act such as that leeches off of one’s vitality. He takes a moment to recompose himself, as do you. Any subsequent attempts to form a link are going to be wrung from a desiccated source. You don’t know how many attempts you have left in you, 

“A first offense, I could pardon,” Blade pants out, blood-red hues shining, “A recidivist like yourself, though… can’t go undisciplined.” 

Your eyes widen. How did he know your intentions so quickly? You hadn’t so much as moved yet! 

There’s a dull discomfort blooming from your nape. 

Your eyelids feel heavy and your breathing slows. Black spots float around in your vision. They start small, appearing as if they were polka dots, then grow to be the size of black holes. Your muscles won’t move. The unconscious realm beckons. Its gravitational pull is irresistible, a tide you can’t swim against. 

What is this? Your neck… did he strike a nerve…? 

“You’ll be fine,” a distant, sonorous voice promises. “Just sleep.” 

The sentence has been delivered. 

You’re made prisoner to a dreamless slumber. 

[warframestuff]

Howdy, Tenno!

1999 has come, and with it, a bounty of Hotfixes to iron out any Y2K bugs! As we’ve resolved issues along the way (but more are being tracked and tackled), we’re pausing Hotfixes while we develop an interim Cert build - Devstream #184 will expand on when and what content will be released in this build! Please note this interim Cert build is not Echoes of 1999 (yet!) 

One important note: during this downtime, the iOS team may continue to Hotfix to tackle performance improvements exclusive to the Mobile platform!

Like always, our next Cert Update includes further code fixes. Code describes changes made directly to the engine, which requires Certification from each Console platform to pass its checks, such as ensuring an Update doesn’t crash the machine itself. 

We also need to ensure Cross Platform Play parity so all Tenno can continue to play together! 

You can find further details on the “Code” and “Cert” processes here!   With that said, a healthy helping of resolved issues from our ‘Known Issues’ list you can expect to see are:

Freezes/crashes on the Nintendo Switch.

We sincerely apologize for this taking so long, Tenno! This Cert build was our only opportunity to resolve these reported Switch crashes.

Continued work towards camera and lighting issues in various Quests and Cinematics, like The New War, The Second Dream, and The Sacrifice.

The broken camera in the Epilogue of The New War.

Incorrect camera position and broken lighting in the Chamber of the Lotus during the Angels of Zariman intro cinematic.

Calendar Task progress lost after a Host Migration.

Certain Task Challenges appearing to restart after completing them in-mission.

Brief Respite / Duplex Bond not working for Clients with Inner Might.

Corrupted Ancients giving Thrax ghosts Overguard.

Rare cases of Scaldra Exterminate Bounties containing no enemies.

Legacyte Harvest ‘Capture multiple targets’ Objective allowing extraction before the Objective is finished.

Players/Crew not being seated correctly as the  Railjack pilot or frontal gunner.

And more as we continue fixing your bug reports!

Severe performance degradation when using Arcane Camisado on Nekros is on our radar!  

Devstream 184 has also been announced for January 31st at 2 p.m. ET! Expect news on On-lyne’s upcoming tour, the next Prime Warframe, Rhino Heirloom, Nightwave, and much more with all things Echoes of 1999! And as always, Tenno, we’re still shining bright at your usual spots!

The Lunar New Year Event is live! Brand new Glyphs, Skins, and Emblems at your fingertips.  

As discussed earlier, Devstream 184 is live on January 31st at 2 p.m. ET! We’re ssssso excited to bring you news about On-lyne’s upcoming tour, which will include a deeper dive into the Technocyte Coda and more!

Prime Time, Warframe International, and Devshorts continue! 

Our directory-wide Twitch Drops Fest for 6 On-lyne and 6 Technocyte Coda Glyphs is live! The campaign is live until January 31 at 11 a.m. ET, with the wave of Technocyte Glyphs beginning on January 24th at 11 a.m. ET!

Thank you for your patience, Tenno! We’re working hard to get more content (and more fixes) into your hands as 1999 continues to grow between now and Echoes of 1999!

[sylviesoothsayer22]

Well Matched - Chapter 2

Hyacinthus orientalis

Summary: Wei Wuxian spent the past year and a half terrorizing the cultivation world. Slowly cracking at the foundations until most of the clans were forced to give up chasing him. Only one person was mad enough to confront the newborn Calamity. Uncaring that Wei Wuxian simply wants to move on with his afterlife and pursue his new purpose in peace.

Link to Chapter One if you haven't read it yet: https://www.tumblr.com/sylviesoothsayer22/767249587576651776/well-matched-chapter-1?source=share

Author's Note: First off, I'd like to preface this chapter by stating that I have absolutely nothing against Jiang Cheng. I actually find him to be one of MXTX's most complex characters and his tragic story was excellently written. I re-read MDZS for this fic and took note of how JC constantly dogs WWX's steps like a man-possessed (after THIRTEEEN YEARS of processing), just so he can make WWX pay for his crimes. In this verse, it's only been around two years since WWX's death. So, it wouldn't make sense for JC to NOT try and confront WWX. Calamity or not. I haven't written a lot of angst in the past and my opinions on both JC and WWX's actions might have bled into this chapter. That being said, if you have a problem with the chapter or how it was written, please let me know in the comments so that I can improve in the future.

Jiang Cheng made another attempt to circulate his spiritual energy through his meridians.

He couldn’t feel the energy flow.

Why?! His meridians weren’t damaged in any way and he knew the bastard didn’t drain him. 

He gritted his teeth and, once more, thrashed against the bindings that secured him to a tree. Uncaring of the thorns digging into his already torn skin.

The sound of a twig snap echoed through the forest clearing. He opened his eyes and glared at the source.

Above him were unconscious Jiang disciples and hunting dogs hanging from the branches of the tree he was tied to. Green tinted mist swirled around the clearing and the figure at the centre of it all was looking back at him with an empty grin. 

“You….” Jiang Cheng breathed out, enraged. 

“Me.” His former martial brother responded. 

He carelessly dropped the immortal binding nets he was holding and set them on fire with a flick of his finger. 

Jiang Cheng gnashed his teeth at the ghost’s casual attitude. 

“Did you think that I was gonna fall for such an obvious trap?” Wei Wuxian tutted. “Haven’t all the other clans given up by now?”

It was true. Any cultivator who came close to the newborn ghost would be met with misfortune. Sometimes he drained their cores and broke their meridians to the point that they’ll never be able to cultivate again. Other times he would simply curse their spiritual weapon or had them outright destroyed. The most gruesome was when the ghost sent hired rogue cultivators back to their clients maimed, disfigured beyond recognition or in pieces.  

It didn’t stop at direct attacks either. Whenever the Calamity got particularly irritated, dizi music would start echoing near sect territories, followed by their properties mysteriously catching fire and an uptick in monster activity within the forests surrounding Golden Carp Tower, Impure Realm, Lotus Pier, and Cloud Recesses.

The minor sects had become reluctant to pursue the matter further, regardless of their superiors’ wishes. It was theorized that Wei Wuxian had also been in contact with many low-ranked cultivators, as talented disciples withdrew from their clans without explanation and there was a great decline in new recruits. No one with an ounce of self-preservation wanted to take up cultivation if it meant that they would come face-to-face with the Yiling Lazou at some point. The ghost had become an even bigger legend than before and people have bestowed him the title “Black Flute Summons Disasters". 

Jin Guangshan, through the urging of Jin Guangyao, withdrew his clan from the manhunt. Their argument? All the sects’ resources were stretched too thin and it’s best that they cut their losses. Also, they reasoned, the Yiling Lazou seems to only act out when provoked. It was next to impossible to track him down and he doesn’t seem to cause harm other than in self-defense. How long will he tolerate their actions before he snaps and goes on another rampage? It had almost been a thousand years since the cultivation world had to worry about a Calamity. This was beyond them. Leave it for the gods to decide. 

No one was brave enough to state the fact that the Jin clan was the one bearing the brunt of Wei Wuxian’s attacks. 

Lan Xichen supported Jin Guangyao’s actions by having the Lan clan withdraw as well, which forced the Nies to follow. Much to Lan Wangjie’s alleged protests and Nie Mingjue’s clear dissatisfaction over having a powerful spirit running amok. The Jiangs were the only clan that refused to drop the matter. 

They chased rumour after rumour. Anything that could give them a clue on the Yiling Lazuo’s whereabouts. Most were farfetched and few were credible. They eventually heard from a reliable source that Wei Wuxian had been prowling up and down a nameless mountain in the far south for nearly a week now. Longer than he would typically stay in one place. Jiang Cheng and his disciples went there and set up traps for the elusive ghost. 

Which is what led to the sect leader’s current predicament. 

“Wei Wuxian!”

“Hmm? Oh, don’t bother reaching for Zidian. The mist is blocking the flow in your meridians. Not to worry. The effects are temporary.” He gracelessly plops himself on a nearby boulder and drops his smile.

“Let’s talk. What do you want from me, Jiang Wanyin?”

Somehow, the way the question was phrased infuriated the sect leader. As if Wei Wuxian was the one who had been wronged! He barked out a harsh laugh and replied:

“I want back the lives you’ve stolen and to end Jin Ling’s torment, but you can’t give me that. I’ll just have to settle for you kneeling at my parents’ altar in penitence before ending you myself!” Wei Wuxian let out a snort at that.

“A ghost asking the dead for forgiveness? That’s a good one.”

Jiang Cheng felt his rage reach a boiling point.

All traces of cruel humour left Wei Wuxian’s face.

“What’s it going to take for you to leave me be? Haven’t I already repented with my death?” He asked, expressionlessly.

“Not even close. I lost everything because of you. One death hardly accounts for all the sins you’ve committed.” Jiang Cheng growled.

Not everything. Wei Ying thought. You still have her boy and yet here you are. Stuck in the past.

“Then what would you have me do? You’ve already denounced me from the Jiang Clan, you led the siege that resulted in my demise, you stabbed me and helped in the slaughter of the people I swore to protect. Is that not enough for you?” He pressed.

Just forget about me, Jiang Cheng. Please….

“You have the nerve to play the victim now?!”

Wei Wuxian felt his own frustrations rise to the surface. He shut his eyes and took a deep breath.

“The only one playing the victim here is you.” He retorted. “I’m well aware that the real victims are the ones who were forced to bear the consequences of my actions.”

“So, now you choose to acknowledge Jin Ling?”

“I wasn’t talking about Jin Ling. I was talking about the Wens under my protection.” He opened his eyes again, coldly staring at Jiang Chang.

“Remember Wen Qing? The one you owed a life debt to? You could have at least requested the other clans to grant her a more humane execution. And as for the others…. I know I warranted my own death after Nightless City. But why did the Wen Remnants have to die?” He hissed out the last question. Infuriated all over again at the mere thought.

Jiang Cheng could not believe Wei Wuxian’s sheer gall.

“Even in death…. you still have the nerve to defend those dogs?” He breathed out disbelievingly. Wei Wuxian felt himself snap.

Of course, his hatred of the Wens still hasn’t abated! What was I even thinking?!

“Dogs?” Wei Wuxian sneered. “Is it fair of you to call people who had no part in that fucking war, dogs? Is it fair of you to look at the suffering of the elderly, women and children and simply say they deserved it? To this day, the sects keep posturing about how righteous and just they are, but in the end, you’re all just a bunch of hypocrites who didn’t even blink at the death of a child!”

That startled Jiang Cheng.

“A child…?”

“I’m talking about A-Yuan!” Wei Wuxian seethed. He pushed back the images of when he first found the boy’s corpse after the Siege and continued. “Remember him? Oh, right. I forgot. In your eyes, anyone named Wen is less than dirt. My mistake.” He stood up and took several steps back, taking deep breaths. Trying to calm down. Gods, he felt so tired.

“You threw your lot in with them and shacked up at the Burial Mounds. Even if you hadn’t slaughtered everyone in Nightless City, did you honestly think that you would’ve been left alone?! Was there a plan on how to protect the Wens or did you think all your problems would just go away on their own? The only person you have to blame is yourself!” Wei Wuxian tried not to react at his words.

Ah! Jiang Cheng.... You always knew where to hurt.

This ‘discussion’ wasn’t getting them anywhere.

Was he the idiot for hoping that they would find some kind of compromise?

“Is it even possible for you to let me go…?”

“….No.”

Wei Wuxian laughed harshly. He pulled out his flute and started to play a low and melodious tune. Wei Ying watched expressionlessly as Jiang Cheng’s eyes widened in realization before they started bleeding. He struggled even more viciously against his bindings, but eventually his eyes rolled to the back of his skull. His former shidi's head slumped forward as he fell unconscious.

Wei Ying lowered his flute and let out a sigh. He felt a familiar presence hovering next to him.

“What is it, Wen Qing?” He asked without looking at the woman’s direction.

A ghostly green firefly flew into his line of sight. It took on the vague apparition of a woman before solidifying into the doctor he knows. As a ghost, her clothes were dirtied by soot and ash. Her skin took on a greenish-grey hue typically found among average ghosts. The healer sported burn marks and blackened limbs. Most of the burns were on her lower abdomen and legs. She died from smoke inhalation before the fire spread to the rest of her body.

“Are we just going to leave them like this?” She asked softly. He shrugged in response.

“They’ll be knocked out for the next few days. When they wake up, we’ll be long gone.” Depending on their luck, they will have found the fabled Ghost City and will be let in or they’ll be occupying a new haunt. He changed the subject:

“Did you find the entrance?” She shook her head.

“It keeps reappearing and disappearing, but we’re sure it’s there. What do you think it means?”

“Maybe Crimson Rain is picky with his visitors?” Wei Ying mused aloud. “Either way, we still have two more days of the Zhongyuan Festival before Ghost Market closes.” She nodded and then asks the question he’d been dreading.

“What happens if we can’t get in?” Wei Wuxian felt himself tense before relaxing.

“Then…. we go with our second option.”

“But you don’t know if it will work.”

“I’ll make it work! I’ll protect you all this time. I promise.” Wen Qing gave him a look of concern.

“We believe you.” She reassured gently. “Just please.... don’t push yourself.”

Wei Ying offered her a tense smile before turning away.

“I’ll check on the others. Notify me immediately of any changes.” She nodded although he couldn’t see it. Wei Wuxian was about to leave when she said:

“Don’t let Jiang Wanyin’s words get to you. You did your best.”

He didn’t acknowledge her words and continued on his way.

I appreciate your kind words, Wen Qing. I really do. But you’re wrong about that.

It didn’t take long for him to reach his destination. A vast field of red spider lilies spread out before him. Soft and vibrant beneath the moonlight. Above the flora, many fireflies languidly flew around. Dipping and bobbing as they pleased. A few of the smaller fireflies appeared to be chasing each other in the air. Wei Ying felt himself relax at the sight. He sighed and flopped down on the flower field. Uncaring of the petals floating in the air because of his disturbance. He held out a finger and one of the smaller fireflies landed on it.

“Hi, A-Yuan.” He whispered softly. “Did you have fun with your friends while I was away?” The little firefly bobbed its body up and down enthusiastically.

He patiently listened to the ghost-child's chattering, before gently flicking him away and urging the little guy to go play with the others.

Feeling his eyelids becoming heavy, Wei Wuxian closed them. Just for a few minutes, he told himself.

I want my parents back…

Come back to Gusu with me…

A-Li…still waiting for you…

A-Xian, stop…. You have to stop first. Don’t… Don’t…

He could feel a strange light flicking back and forth through his closed lids. Wei Wuxian cracked them open. Vaguely aware that he cried in his sleep. He was met with the sight of a silver butterfly hovering above his face.

The strange creature gently landed on his nose.

Chapter End.

Further Notes:

*Timeline: It's now been two years since the Siege. WWX spent approximately six months reforming as a ghost and gaining followers at the Burial Mounds. He then spent the next year and a half doing what was mentioned in the chapter above.

*Hyacinthus orientalis: better known as purple hyacinth. The flower symbolizes deep sorrow, jealousy, grief and asking for forgiveness. I'd say it sums up the Yúnmèng brothers' relationship perfectly.

*Zhongyuan Festival: Ghost or Spirit Festival. In this verse, there's a myth that Ghost City's entrance only appears to newcomers during the festival and WWX decided to see if it's true for himself.

*WWX wasn't aware that JC DID in fact speak up for WQ.

*WWX decided to use subterfuge and fear tactics in order to buy time as he waits for the Zhongyuan Festival to come around. He didn't want to outright confront the sects, but he's not above messing around with them.

*In this verse, WWX is PISSED at the sects/clans (and himself) for the Wen massacre and how it was pushed under the rug. He vowed to leave that world behind and protect the Wens' spirits with everything that he has. Most of that drive stems from the trauma where he found A-Yuan's body after he became a ghost. I'll delve into that in later chapters. (Yes, I killed A-Yuan in this verse. Really sorry, but I couldn't stand him being separated from WWX).

Also, the Four Calamities are akin to semi-true folktales in this verse. Hence why the characters know some vague information about Ghost City, when did the last Calamity appear, etc.

There was just..... so much yelling in this chapter. Jiang Cheng is such a bitter and angry man. I hope I didn't make him too OOC. Hua Cheng will appear in the next chapter. Promise.

Omake:

HC: *peering down at a wraith-butterfly resting on his finger*

YY: *walks in with a mountain of documents and sees his lord watching some massacre -starring WWX yet again- that the butterfly was displaying on its wings*

YY: uh..Chengzhu? I have this month’s -and the last month’s- paperwork?

HC: *waves him off* Put it on my desk. I’ll look at them later.

YY: *knows that ‘later’ means ‘never’ and resigns himself to pulling another all-nighter*

Hope you enjoyed it!

Many thanks~

[only10th]

Been thinking about Pianist!wwx and violinist!lwj playing together at a mall. Wei Wuxian likes to go to the mall to play for people, he loves taking requests, or plays some well known musical pieces and sometimes he’ll play one of this original compositions.

One day he’s playing “Rain” by Ed Carlsen, which is one of his favorite pieces to play when he's out and about. He’s just so caught up in the moment that he doesn’t notice a man standing next to him, pulling out his violin and just joining him on the piece with so much ease. His eyes grow wide but soon that sparkle he has shines brighter at how easy and harmonic both of them sound. He laughs, he smiles, he shows off while the mysterious violinist stays focused and composed, yet the passion drips into every note they play.

Their duet attracts a lot of attention, multiple people taking videos and pictures (plus wwx is recording the whole thing himself since he sometimes uploads the videos of himself playing online) this is the first time anyone has joined him in a duet. After they’re done, they look at each other breathless, a bright smile on wwx’s face while there’s the smallest curve on the mysterious violinist’s lip. Before Wei Wuxian could even ask for his name, he had already put away his violin and walked away. Wei Wuxian groans, annoyed he didn’t even get to know the handsome violinist’s name. Maybe they’ll meet up again.

He hopes they do. He had never felt such a connection with another musician before.

A few weeks later, Wei Wuxian is playing at a restaurant. This time he’s getting paid to do so, which is great! He can’t just let opportunities like that pass by!

So, he’s playing something classical to fit the mood. It is rather fancy, your food, of the size of a quarter, costing you an arm and a leg type of place. Wei Wuxian will never understand why people want to spend their money like that, but it’s because of places like this that he has a place to work. Well, if playing here during the weekends is even considered work. He enjoys it nonetheless.

Once he’s done with a piece there’s scattered claps through the restaurant. This won’t do, the people need to be entertained! Wei Wuxian sets his phone against the piano, already recording. There’s a smirk on his face, cause he already has the perfect piece in mind. Fingers hovered giddily over the ivory keys, an exhale leaving his lips and soon began to play.

The melody startles some of the clients, which makes Wei Wuxian chuckle under his breath. The tune is fun, like a little dance around the calm waters of the lotus lakes of his old home. It’s one of his original compositions, but he’s played it a few times before, so he wouldn’t be surprised if people knew it. Wei Wuxian lets himself get lost in the song, silver eyes fluttering close. A sense of pride fills his chest, noticing how the restaurant had become quiet. He could sense all eyes on him, which sent a chill up his spine. What he didn’t expect was to hear a violin joining his now gentle melody.

His eyes snap open with a gasp, and right next to him he sees the same violinist from a few weeks back. His mouth hangs slightly agape, and for a moment he loses his focus which causes him to play a few sour notes. Yet, he smiles brightly, impressed that, despite this not being composed as a duet, the mysterious violinist was even able to join and keep up. Wei Wuxian can’t help but huff a laugh, and just as he does he is met with a piercing golden gaze. His breath stutters, he had never seen such beautiful eyes, especially ones that looked at him with such intensity.

Wei Wuxian has to stop playing, knowing there’s a solo coming up. He’d usually play it through, but he wanted to see if this violinist had also come up with his own solo, and he delivers as expected. He lets his eyes close and he plays his piece, swaying with the music he produces with much passion and Wei Wuxian can’t help but be completely mesmerized by such beauty. Not just him, but the crowd around him! At some point he has to join back, continue their little dance as both their melodies become one.

A round of applause erupts once they’re done, both of them looking at each other as if nothing else mattered in the world other than this moment. For the first time since their first encounter, Wei Wuxian could take a better look at the violinist. He was only a few inches taller, dark, ebony hair like the keys of a piano cascaded over his shoulder, a white ribbon braided and intertwined in it. A wide smile paints on Wei Wuxian’s face as he stand from the small bench to offer a small bow.

“We finally meet again, mysterious violinist.” Wei Wuxian says, quirking an eyebrow upward, “You know my song.” It was more a statement than a question.

The man nods in response, “Wei Wuxian is very talented.” Oh, his voice. The low timber sends a shiver down his spine. Wait, how does he know his name?

“How do you…?” Wei Wuxian starts, narrowing his eyes if trying to recall someone or something. “You follow my page. You’ve seen my videos.” He says with realization, which is followed by a laugh.

The man nods again before offering a courtly bow. He doesn’t say anything else as he turns to leave. No, not this time. Wei Wuxian manages to grab his wrist, stopping him in his tracks. “Hey, hey, don’t leave like that! Will you at least tell me your name?”

The violinist seems to consider shaking the grip off or telling Wei Wuxian his name. Golden gaze seems to stay glued on the other’s hand for quite some time before exhaling softly. “Lan Zhan.”

“Nice to finally meet you, Lan Zhan. Though, I’ll miss calling you my mysterious violinist.” Wei Wuxian chuckles. His fingers slip from the other’s wrist, now tucking them into his inner coat pocket to take out a piece of paper and scribbling a series of numbers. “I really, really like playing with you. Maybe… maybe we could…?”

“Yes.” Lan Zhan is quick to answer before Wei Wuxian can even finish his sentence, as if he’s been waiting for him to ask all evening. “I would like to play with you, Wei Wuxian.”

“Wei Ying. Call me Wei Ying.” Handing him the piece of paper with his phone number, a broad smile on his face. “Maybe we can grab some coffee? You took my song and modified it into a duet, I’ll forgive you only if we can play it again.”

There’s the tiniest curve at the corner of Lan Zhan’s lips. Golden eyes melting like honey as they gaze at silver ones. “Mn” he agrees. After that, you’d see them playing anywhere they could: malls, airports, restaurants, out in the streets when it was warm enough. They’d perform the most beautiful duets anyone has ever heard.

[blackcatruse]

𝔣𝔯𝔬𝔪 𝔞𝔰𝔥𝔢𝔰

«prev. ❃ next» ❃ first chapter ❃ m.list ❃ ao3 pairing: r. haitani/fem!reader ↳ she/her, fem descriptors, nickname ❃ chapter synopsis: they're "coworkers", but that's a generous, generous term. Lotus and Ran together would be a terrible combo for Rindou's sanity. word count: 4.5k chapter cw(s): swearing, possible ooc, 3rd person POV, suggestive flirting with Ran (again), a/n: this POV chapter only happened bc one of my friends told me they liked chapters in rindou's POV, so i decided to indulge them ;p

Reporting their findings was the easy part. The hard part came when Rindou had to read their reactions and adjust his tone and temperament. He wasn’t bad at it, per se, but he certainly wasn’t as adept as Ran was. Charisma by proxy, Ran had called it. It was one of the reasons Rindou kept his mouth shut during most deals and let Ran take the lead, but this case had both brothers stumped. A tired looking Kakucho sat slumped in the booth across from them, next to the hulking figure of South Terano, who was grinning ear to ear.

They were sitting in a VIP corner of Violet Delight where the bass thumping music could cover their conversation, but it was distant enough that they could hear each other. Ran had just finished summarizing his findings and made note of the things Lotus had also told them. Given how tense things were in the Three Deities’ stalemate, most everyone’s mental faculties were exhausted.

“We were attacked last night,” Rindou said, ripping off the bandage. “Someone was following us and I wouldn’t have known had Lotus not said something.”

Kakucho sat up straighter and South’s wide grin somehow got bigger. “That’s an interesting development,” South remarked, folding his arms over his chest.

“The guy was after Lotus,” Rindou continued. “He was kind of creepy.”

“And he killed himself before we could get any answers,” Ran chimed in as if he was there. Rindou gave his brother an annoyed glare, but Ran ignored him.

“He killed himself?” Kakucho asked.

“Suicide pill,” Rindou said.

“Which is weird,” Ran added. “Why go so far as to kill yourself if you were just a messenger?”

“He did feel a bit like a zealous devotee to whatever cause he was serving,” Rindou muttered more for Ran to hear. Louder he said, “Nothing in this case makes sense. I don’t have a good feeling about this job now.”

“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have the same suspicions,” Kakucho admitted. He rubbed his jaw with a hand and sighed. “Both jobs were given to us by different clients. I can’t say that they’re connected for sure just yet. But with the appearance of those bodies and the information Lotus has given you, something else is going on.”

Ran shuffled next to Rindou, pushing him to the side. When Rindou opened his mouth to protest, he saw that Ran had pulled out his phone and opened up a picture he’d taken of the man’s neck. “Does this symbol look familiar to you?” he asked, showing the image to South and Kakucho.

Both men stared at it, but neither knew exactly what it was. Disappointed, Ran put his phone back in his pocket, somehow still shoving Rindou again. Rindou grunted, but did nothing else to show his irritation. His older brother was always going to be a nuisance, but there were other things to worry about. Whoever was orchestrating all the coincidences believed their men to be disposable, and that thought made Rindou sick. Neither he nor Ran had much loyalty to anyone outside of the S62 generation, and even then it was limited. The Haitani brothers ruled Roppongi for years without any gang, able to call a mass of men at any moment, but even they recognized the value of those that answered them.

The silence around the table grew tighter. The building bass of the song playing didn’t help to ease the mood either. Rindou rested his chin on his palm and asked, “What do you want us to do?”

South shrugged. He wasn’t as invested in the gang politics and preferred to hand the reins over to Kakucho, who was still trying to follow Izana’s dream. South desired a “new era for delinquents”, similar to Mikey’s former dream for Toman. There was only one way for Rokuhara Tandai to become the strongest. On one hand, being among the three ruling gangs in Tokyo was no small feat, but on the other, only one of the Three Deities could remain standing for absolute domination. With Kakucho as the strategic lead and the remaining s62 generation as top members, there was certainly promise for Rokuhara Tandai to claim the number one spot.

However, nothing is as easy as it seems. With the emergence of this new threat, the once calm waters were churning with uncertainty. Lotus could provide information from Brahman’s angle, but even she didn’t know much about the situation. Rindou remembered asking her if she could get anything on the men who tried to kidnap her, but she just shook her head and laughed dryly.

“I’m just a runner,” she said. “They don’t trust me worth a damn, and I wouldn’t either. Besides, I’m not high enough on the totem pole to even look at Genbu’s men.”

Rindou couldn’t help the frown that formed on his face. Lotus didn’t comment on it, but continued on, “If I hear anything, I’ll try to let you know.”

Rindou didn’t thank her. He wondered why she even bothered to share information with him and Ran. What would she get out of it? Lotus was clever and Rindou didn’t like that she was unpredictable. He couldn’t get a read on her and it drove him to the brink of insanity. Not that he’d tell anyone, especially not Ran.

Kakucho snapped Rindou out of his straying thoughts when he said, “Just keep an eye out for anything, and keep in touch with Lotus. She might give us some good information.”

“And if she wants to bargain for information?” Ran asked, lazily flicking the straw in his drink.

“If it’s reasonable, I don’t see why not,” Kakucho answered. “We already promised her freedom, but I’m not entirely certain Wuxing would let her go during these times. Especially if Wuxing also knows about the threat. She could consider it part of the deal she made with us. If we don’t get the information we need to get this settled and behind us, then the jobs that her freedom hinges on can’t be completed. It would be in her best interest to comply.”

“Ouch, that’s cold,” Ran said, clicking his teeth with his tongue. “I don’t think that’ll be a problem, though. She only cares about saving her own skin, and it’s easy to get her to open up. It’s dangerous how she unknowingly wears her heart on her sleeve.”

Rindou glanced at his brother from the corner of his eye. Was Ran right about that? Why did he speak like he really knew her? Lotus and Ran did get along better than she and Rindou, but as far as Rindou was concerned there was no extraneous contact outside of discussing the jobs. It was irritating because why did the thought of Lotus and Ran bother Rindou so much? He shouldn’t care. He doesn’t care. She’s frustrating and stubborn and doesn’t realize her own limits. She could be more of a problem than an asset with her recklessness. Not to mention the emotional vulnerability that exploded in her recently.

Neither brother had reported Lotus’s panic attack nor what triggered it. There wasn’t a need to tell Kakucho and South. All they needed to hear was that Lotus was still up for the job, but she was injured during a deal between Wuxing and who was lurking in the shadows.

“Any updates on the shipment?” Ran asked. “Our timelines could be pushing it with Lotus’s concussion. She said she’s worked in worse conditions, but we need her to be fully recovered for our best chances of success.”

Kakucho shook his head. “We haven’t received much more information. The ship is stuck at another port right now, but we did get a shipping container number. With that information we can figure out where it’ll be placed and then we can move the goods. Which brings me to my next question.”

Rindou sat up straighter when Kakucho’s mismatched eyes focused on him. “Do you have any prediction for when Lotus will be able to map out a route?”

“Why are you asking me?”

“You’re the one closest to her right now,” Kakucho responded. Ran nodded in response.

Rindou felt his jaw tick. This was not a position he wanted, but it was something he was thrown into. A common trend, really. Sighing, Rindou admitted that he didn’t know. “She really did look awful,” he told them. “She said she’d be in touch, and Ran is right that we need her at the top of her game. We’ll wait for now and I’ll let you know when I know something. If there’s any changes, just let me know and we’ll see what we can do.”

It wasn’t the best answer, but it would have to do for now. Patience was a virtue in the world of vice and the precision of timing required for the job wasn’t something that could be rushed. So they would wait until they couldn’t anymore.

“You look less like a truck hit you today.” The words were out of Rindou’s mouth before he could stop them. Not that he would have made an effort to in the first place.

Lotus gave him a flat glare. “Still no normal greeting? And why is it that you’re always commenting on my appearance? That just what catches your eye?” She cocked a hip and crossed her arms.

Rindou frowned, brain churning to try and come up with something witty. Ran snickered from where he was standing. They had decided to meet up at a different location to scout out the cargo bay. Hopefully nobody was stalking them this time around, but they wouldn’t know that until they started moving.

“If it means anything, I missed you,” Ran said smoothly. There was always a hint of flirtation in Ran’s voice when he talked to women, and tonight was not a time Rindou wanted to deal with it.

Lotus feigned amazement by putting a hand on her chest and dropping her jaw. “Aww, really? That means soooo much,” she crooned. Her posture quickly shifted as she dropped her hand to her hip and motioned with her other hand. “Alright boys, let’s get this in motion. We don’t have all night.”

“Love a straightforward woman,” Ran said with a grin. “Take the lead, Lotus.”

Rindou rolled his eyes, but Ran and Lotus had started walking away. He trailed behind them, listening to their banter and only felt his irritation grow. Ran didn’t need to be that close to her. She didn’t have to laugh at him like that. Rindou had half a mind to just get in between them so they would shut up, but he knew Ran would just make fun of him, saying something that wasn’t true.

They made it to the yard without any trouble. Once they snuck past the fence, Lotus started climbing on one of the many shipping containers piled up. The air smelled of sea and old metal. Evenly spaced lights shined bright above them, threatening to expose them in the shadows. The only sounds interrupting the silence was the dull clank of metal as Lotus scaled the containers and the low rumble of the waves.

Rindou took in his surroundings, eyes darting to the shadows. He was looking everywhere except for at Lotus. Ran was also scanning their environment and upon finding nothing suspicious, he made eye contact with his brother. Rindou didn’t want to entertain Ran, but it could be something important. Ran’s eyes flashed between Rindou and where Lotus was moving up a ladder. He looked back and forth enough times to be annoying and the pointed glance at Lotus let Rindou know exactly what his brother was thinking.

“Keep it in your fucking pants, you bastard,” Rindou muttered.

“Aww, c’mon that’s not what I meant at all. You always assume the worst.” Ran pouted. The expression quickly faded as he went on, “Anyway, we should probably join her up there. Elevation would be better for surveillance anyway.”

Rindou raised one brow but said nothing more. He headed towards the ladder on the bottom most shipping container and hauled himself up. By the time he and Ran had reached the third container where Lotus was perched, she was already poring over a rough map and a predicted schedule for shipments. She was muttering to herself, looking at open areas and tracing them with her finger. A pencil was tucked behind her ear, and she was chewing on her lip deep in thought. She looked… surprisingly normal.

Ran approached Lotus, but she was so engrossed in what she was doing she didn’t notice him. She didn’t startle when he pointed out something with his baton. She shook her head. “No, that area will have something in it by the anticipated time. If we’re unloading from here,” she put a finger on the map, “there’s some warehouses nearby that might hide us. The best way to transport the drugs out is a little bit of a distance away, and we’d risk getting caught by patrols. But, if we try to avoid patrol routes we risk being seen as we pull away. Y’know?”

Lotus seemed to come alive doing such mundane work. There was a genuine sparkle in her eyes and Rindou immediately thought that she was weird. Ran stared at her work, pensive, like he could make sense of the colored scribbles and notes Lotus was making. He let out an impressed click of his tongue, “You’re a pro at this.”

Lotus seemed to inflate at that. She grinned. “I’m the best runner in Wuxing for a reason. I have to think of everything.”

“You must’ve done well in school then.”

Her eyes darkened at Ran’s comment, but the older Haitani missed it. Rindou didn’t. His curiosity was piqued because as annoying as Lotus was, she was a complete mystery to him. Did he want to know more about her? Almost. He shooed the thought away as Lotus turned to Ran, a false smile on her lips and her eyes squeezed shut.

“Nah, school wasn’t my thing. Didn’t even go to high school,” she said. She looked back down to focus on the task at hand.

Ran looked over his shoulder at Rindou, who shrugged. What was Ran expecting from Rindou? Lotus hadn’t told him anything noteworthy, and it wasn’t like she was going to anyway. Rindou didn’t care to know and didn’t ask. He was fine letting her be whatever the hell she was. Besides, it wasn’t as if the Haitanis had attended their classes normally, so what could they really conclude from knowing that?

She sat up straight and said aloud, “You think we could steal some worker uniforms?”

“It could be arranged,” Ran answered hesitantly.

“I think it’ll be easier to sneak by if we’re dressed for the part. It’s unusual for dock workers to be out super late, but it isn’t uncommon. We wouldn’t have to worry as much about getting caught.” She tapped her lip with the pencil. “But I suppose it would be suspicious if we just showed up and security didn’t know about us. You guys are popular,” Lotus commented, turning to look at Ran and Rindou. “You know anyone who will turn a blind eye?”

“Anyone will do anything for enough money,” Ran remarked. “Or violence.”

“Roughing them up may not be the best approach here,” Lotus commented. “Hmm, okay. If we get our hands on the workers’ schedule we may be able to find something out. We also don’t know much about patrol routes, just the general times the guards should or shouldn’t be somewhere. Maybe we should go for a distraction on the other side of the yard. You got anyone that’s a pyromaniac?”

“I’m sure we could find someone,” Ran hummed. “Think Shion would be up to it?”

“Prolly,” Rindou drawled.

“No, not him. Anyone who’s a big name we probably want to avoid as a distraction. It could be connected back to us if they don’t get away fast enough. I want to limit the number of familiar faces on this job.”

Ran nodded thoughtfully. Rindou hated that what she said made sense. Lotus went back to looking at the map and scribbling. She chewed on the eraser of her pencil before scratching something out and drawing a different line from some blue blocks to a line that maybe represented the fence? The way her mind worked was going straight over Rindou’s head, and judging by the blank stare Ran had, his brother felt the same way. She jotted down numbers before pausing again. She let out a gasp and quickly drew a disaster of lines before sitting back with a satisfied grin.

“What’s goin’ on in that pretty little head?” Ran asked.

“I think I got it,” she whispered. “The routes are subject to change, but the gist is there.”

Ran patted her head and Lotus blinked like she wasn’t sure what was happening. He only offered a small smile and a soft, “Good job.”

The way she lit up made Rindou’s stomach twist. He forced himself to look away because he knew he’d either look stupid or say something stupid. He also wasn’t thrilled at how easily Ran dished out praise to her. If Rindou knew his brother, he knew Ran wasn’t easy to please. Trying to get a compliment out of the eldest Haitani was like pulling teeth. You had to be or do something exceptional for him to even look at you.

Was he jealous of you for your effect on Ran? No, that wasn’t it. The bitter taste in his mouth was unwelcome though. Maybe it was the old metal and sea air. Whatever, it wasn’t worth Rindou’s time to think too hard about it.

“Is Kakucho available to talk about it?” Lotus asked. “I’m finally getting back to work with Wuxing so I don’t know when I could meet again. I’d make it work, but it probably wouldn’t allow for adequate time to execute the plan.”

“I don’t think he’s busy. Let me call him and we’ll see,” Ran said, touching her shoulder reassuringly.

Rindou watched his brother turn around and flip open his phone. He held the device between his shoulder and ear, a surprising feat given how stupidly long Ran’s neck was. He made eye contact with Rindou and raised his eyebrows. Rindou rolled his eyes and Ran adopted his usual shit-eating grin.

Thankfully, Kakucho picked up and was fine with meeting up with Lotus. They were going to meet in the private back room of Violet Delight where Rokuhara Tandai conducted business. The ride over had the Haitani brothers in the lead, with Lotus keeping a skilled pace. Parking their bikes in the alley behind the club, they dismounted and sauntered over to the heavy metal door. Ran unlocked the door and held it open, mocking a bow to Lotus as he said, “Ladies first.”

Lotus looked at Rindou. “You heard him,” she said.

Ran didn’t even bother to stifle his snicker. Rindou glared at his brother before pushing Lotus forward through the door. He was not in the mood to find a quick retort, so he simply resorted to his next best option: physical violence.

“Hey, hey,” Lotus snapped. “Easy!” She stumbled into the room and looked back to give Rindou an icy stare. She stood in the center of the room and crossed her arms. “That’s no way to treat your logistics person.”

“Don’t dish it if you can’t take it,” Rindou grunted.

“Your response was hardly fair! I said words. You made up some meaning behind them and then decided the best course of action was to physically retaliate.” Lotus pouted.

“Those’re big words coming from you.”

Lotus gaped at him, mouth opening and closing like a fish. “Asshole,” she muttered, looking to the side. For once, Rindou may have won against her. A petty victory was a victory nonetheless.

Rindou and Lotus stayed standing where they were, glaring at each other. Ran flopped down on the beat up leather couch. His eyes closed almost instantly. “You done bickering over there?” he asked, not bothering to look at Lotus or Rindou. “The sexual tension is unbearable.”

Lotus sighed before taking the pen out of her pocket and chucking it at Ran. It missed, but Ran opened one eye. “Don’t start something you aren’t willing to finish,” he warned.

She glanced at the clock on the wall. “The night is still young,” she pointed out. “What? Is it past Princess’s bedtime?”

Rindou glanced at the clock. Two in the morning was in fact far beyond Ran’s bedtime. The longer Kakucho took to arrive and the longer Ran stayed awake, the more likely it was that both Rindou and Lotus were not making it out of this room alive.

Ran clicked his tongue and closed his eye. “It is,” he said plainly. “Now stay quiet or I’ll tie you to the chair again.”

Lotus looked over to the side and her expression became unreadable. It was most certainly the scuffed up chair she had awoken in during her first encounter with the Haitanis. A mischievous grin crawled up her face. She walked over to where Ran was and sat on the sad excuse of a coffee table. “I didn’t realize this is where we were,” she purred. “Doesn’t it bring back memories? Wanna beat me up for old times’ sake?”

Rindou was certain that the concussion had messed up all of her mental faculties. What the fuck was she even trying to do? Sleepy Ran was not someone to be trifled with. Instead of the violent reaction Rindou was accustomed to, Ran chuckled. “You really do keep a man on his toes,” he remarked. “But seriously, shut up.”

Lotus looked like she was about to say something, but Rindou quickly walked over and grabbed her shoulder. “Don’t,” he whispered. “Trust me when I say that it’s better to leave Ran alone when he’s like this.”

“Paws off, Haitani,” Lotus hissed, jerking her shoulder from his grip. She childishly turned her nose up at him and refused to look his way.

Before Rindou could strangle her, Kakucho entered the room. His eyes scanned the scene before him and Rindou could see the way he was tempted to turn around and leave. Forgoing any formalities, Kakucho asked, “So you have a route planned?”

Lotus straightened up with pride and beamed at him. She hopped off the coffee table and hung the map of the cargo terminal on the worn bulletin board. The assault of colors made some sense at least, and Lotus started pointing and explaining the entrance and exit sites. She commented about needing a distraction to draw guards’ attention from where the job was happening. There was something about how she wasn’t entirely sure about the patrol routes but she used her best guess to figure it out, but she also designed several paths based around potential patrols.

Kakucho nodded along and Rindou started tuning her out. The broad gestures she was making stopped briefly when she glanced at Rindou. He could feel the uneasiness prickling under his skin, but he didn’t say anything. It wasn’t until he felt Ran’s presence next to him that he realized Lotus probably wasn’t looking at him. Not that he wanted her attention... So then why did he feel hurt about it?

Rindou could never like someone like her. She was an asshole who didn’t know when to keep her mouth shut. She was fucking confusing. The thought or mention of Lotus had him grinding his teeth. He watched with narrow eyes as Ran approached her, but Rindou couldn’t make out their conversation over the blood roaring in his ears. They acted so fucking comfortable around each other and that was probably the worst thing that could come out of them working together. That must be it, Rindou rationalized. I don’t want Lotus and Ran to get all chummy because then I’d never have any peace. Surely that was the reason, or at least that was the one he wanted to cling onto.

It wasn’t until Kakucho said Rindou’s name that he snapped out of his thoughts. His eyes flicked to Kakucho, “What?”

“Thanks for joining us,” Lotus commented dryly. “Anyway, I was saying that there are three warehouses that would be good places to shelter since they’re nearby where the container will be and they’re close to exit routes. One is farther than the others though.” She pointed to a block circled in red. “Ran offered to man that one. He said something about being the fastest, and I can’t go for health and safety reasons.”

“So what, it’s one of us for each warehouse?” Rindou asked, distracted slightly by Lotus’s claim of health and safety.

“Not quite,” Kakucho said. Lotus pouted when he interrupted. “We can’t afford to have Lotus work with anyone who isn’t one of our top members. She said she wanted to limit the number of familiar faces, so you and Ran are really the only candidates. The third group will be made entirely of Rokuhara Tandai runners, but only the ones you all trust.”

Trust was a tricky word. Rindou knew that the only people he actually trusted were his brother and Kakucho, maybe the remaining S62 members. Mocchi was arguably higher on the list than Shion was, but it didn’t matter if neither of them could go. Which meant only one thing—

“You’re with Lotus.”

The cold tension was tangible as they glared at each other. Lotus just crossed her arms and scowled. She didn’t snap out anything, but instead spoke with a resigned deadpan, “We’re taking the warehouse closest to the drop off point. Kakucho’s right that I can’t work with any other Rokuhara Tandai members because you know what they say about loose lips. Plus, I’m still feeling that damn concussion. Unfortunately, I cannot be apprehended during this job because I will probably die and then you can kiss all your riches goodbye.”

There it was. Her arrogance was infuriating, and the fact that she was right only served to make Rindou’s frown deeper. “Just don’t be a liability,” was all he said. “I’m not going to save your ass again if something happens.”

Kakucho glared at him, but Rindou ignored it. He was more interested in how Lotus was going to respond. “Trust me,” she retorted, “I’m not the one you need to worry about. Look at who’s talking. You don’t even pay attention to your surroundings. Is it lonely on the throne above the peasants?”

Rindou lunged to wipe the sneer off her face, but he was immediately grabbed by the back of his shirt collar. “Don’t,” Ran said. Ran didn’t let go of Rindou until the tension had left his body.

Lotus smiled at him with insincere benevolence. Kakucho looked between Rindou and Lotus, his brows furrowed like he was trying to make sense of something. Ran left Rindou’s side and stood next to Lotus, resting an arm on her shoulder. She quickly elbowed his gut and Ran chuckled after he finished coughing. He still didn’t move his arm from her shoulder. The anger ignited in Rindou’s gut confirmed the conclusion he’d made earlier. Ran and Lotus getting close would be his personal hell.

Please do not reupload, translate, or steal my work! If it isn't here or on my ao3, it's not me! Likes & reblogs appreciated! <3 Dividers courtesy of @/cafekitsune & @/firefly-graphics

[slifarianhawk]

Chapter 37: an old grudge

I stalked through the caves. Slowly following Excella with my hand on my samurai edge. Jill and Gale walked beside me.

Albert's voice rang out in my mind, "Take Jill and Gale with you to the meet-up. I don't want Arias to try and take you away from me again, dearheart. Not to mention the natives are less than friendly."

I stare at the heavy ring on my finger. No way in hell was I about to let that happen again.

"Pay attention, you three!" Excella snapped as I sent Gale off to find a good sniping post, "We need to try and mend our relationship with Mr. Arias. He is one of our best buyers and one of our major clients!"

I felt a growl building in my throat. Arias, the fact I would have to play nice with him left a bitter taste in my mouth. Not only for the fact he saw me be an utter embarrassment to Albert by being captured by the B.S.A.A. but I think he was one of Sergei's suppliers. I'm not too sure on that one, though maybe I'd ask. There was also the fact he tried to kidnap me as well. 

I felt a buzzing on my neck, "My comm is going off."

Excella sighed and walked ahead.

"Pheonix here," I said pressing the speaker on my choker.

"No need for codenames with me, my precious lotus," Albert said, his voice echoing through the comms.

"Wesk," I sigh hesitantly scratching the back of my neck, "are you sure me being here is the best idea? I feel it could lead to trouble the last time. The last time I saw him I was our daughter now I'm your wife and partner."

"Don't sell yourself short my dear. Just be your usual cheery self, my love. Just reintroduce yourself as who you truly are." He said a slightly sour note to his tone of voice.

"Of course, my treasure. I shall" I smiled his voice giving me confidence as I heard a chuckle over the line.

Ugh, the fucking mushroom!

"Galeforce! Are you in position?" I snap.

He laughed almost shouting over the comms, "Of course, I'm in fucking position! What do you think I am a dead pigeon!"

Sighing I groan, "Don't listen to mine and Wesker's conversations over comms."

"Now now boss, don't let me blow away the romance." Game said cocking his kar98.

"Tabitha let's hurry. Excella is already at the rendezvous." Jill said behind her mask and cloak. 

"Right. Love you Wesk see you in a moment." I said hanging up the comms and marching on.

Within five minutes we were at the dock. I watched as Irving pulled in with a certain man with white hair. His minions are beside him. I was paranoid something was going to happen. I just felt it deep inside.

"Ah lady Excella, I see Dr. Wesker didn't escort you this time, " Arias said kissing her hand.

"He is making sure everything is perfect for your visit Glen." She said smiling.

"And who are these lovely people with you, Excella? One is certainly familiar." He asked motioning to me and Jill.

"One is the new bodyguard that Wesker assigned to me. The other is..."She started to stammer.

I quickly bow slightly,  "My apologies lord Arias, we have indeed met before although I was reticent about my true identity. When we last met I was using the identity of my deceased daughter,  Alistar Lancaster."

"Ah yes, I remember you now. You were captured by the B.S.A.A were you not? How ever did you manage to escape?" He asked eyeing my form suspiciously.

"Escape would be the incorrect term. They let me go under the UN's orders. As you have your resources, I have mine. If you would allow me the honor of reintroducing myself, I would be most grateful." I said pushing my loose hair back.

"Please indulge me. What is your actual name?" He said facing me completely now.

"My full name is Tabitha Elise Redfield Wesker. I am the matron of the Phoenix Corps., head of security, and the wife of Albert Wesker." I bowed fully this time my mid-length hair draping my body.

"So I tried to capture Wesker's wife?" He said in a stunned tone of voice, looking paler than he did when he arrived.

Raising my body I had a gentle smile on and with a lie on my lips I spoke,  "I harbor no ill will towards you hun."

Taking a moment to examine me, Arias faced his minions and lowered his hand, "Diego, Maria stand down we are among kindred spirits here."

The girl as well as the masked B.O.W relaxed in expression. I turned on my comms and looked down the dock. A certain mushroom perched atop a shack his scope shining in the firelight.

"Stand down galeforce, turns out I was just paranoid," I spoke to the choker speaker.

A loud groan rang from the comms as Gale jumped down from the little shack to the dock, "You need to get that in check boss. Can't be a walking ball of paranoia forever."

"Who is this gentleman?" Arias asked walking up to me. 

"This is Galeforce, my guard. He is also my best sniper. " I say escorting Mr. Arias toward the cargo elevator.

"You had a sniper trained on me? Clever girl you are Alistar, I mean lady Tabitha." He said walking beside Excella.

"My apologies, my husband was worried an incident would occur and this assuaged him," I state spotting a figure in a black trench coat ahead of me.

"You are quite right Glen our lady is as smart as her husband," Irving said nasally.

"With the B.S.A.A. temporarily off my trail mine and my husband's plans are more likely to proceed without a hitch," I say walking up behind Albert and stroking his well-defined neck.

"For you to be so trusting of me after I had four of my trained soldiers train automatic weapons on you. It is quite impressive." Arias said as Albert faced him.

"She has more training than even I do Glen. She is a fine gem amongst all the common trash we have for soldiers.  Also, welcome to our home." Albert says cordially offering his hand. This action surprises me. He despises most touch. He wasn't enjoying this just like me. It reminded me of the old Umbrella balls we were forced to attend as researchers.

"Dr.  Wesker,  thank you for having us. After all the bloodshed last time, I believe it is best if we bury the hatchet." Arias said taking Albert's hand and giving it a firm shake.

"So long as you don't try to kidnap my lotus again.  I believe we shall be fine." He said placing a gentle kiss on my forehead.

"Of course and please allow me to apologize, Lady Wesker.  I should not have been so bold as to assume someone as fine as you weren't already taken." Arias said motioning his crew to board the freight elevator.

As I board I think about Alistar and Sergei growling, "If I had wanted everyone to know who I was it would have been known. After all, parading around as one's dead daughter isn't the best for one's sanity. I had planned to stay as her awhile longer however Ms. Gionne found her original grave and I had to alter my plans." I sigh placing my head on Albert's chest.

"It's always devastating when we lose family. How old was she?" Arias asked looking at me and Albert.

"She died not even a month after her twenty-second birthday. Killed by my uncle, her great uncle.... our commanding officer at the time.... Vladimir Sergei." I spoke growling when I said the bastard's name.

Albert lightly draped an arm around me when I noticed the masked B.O.W. staring at the girl with a sorrowful expression in its eyes. they were father and daughter more than likely. I felt a ripple of sorrow.

"He killed her right before my eyes and walked away laughing.... she bled out in my arms. She died getting me Umbrella's entire intel network and our new computer system. My U.B.C.S. agent I'd was seven hundred forty-eight. Sergei's right-hand slave to say sadly, his prized bitch."

Arias put his hand up, "I thought I recognized you the last time we saw one another. I'm surprised you didn't recognize me. I was the one who supplied the Russian base with weaponry. I remember when I met the infamous Agent Seven forty-eight and her prodigy student One Zero forty-nine. How he described you as what you just called yourself and the other a perfect follower. He went into..."

"I would stop there Glen. My wife is a very easy-going and forgiving woman who has almost limitless patience. But trauma is a cruel mistress who should not be pushed especially when it comes to Sergei." Albert said in a dark menacing voice.

"My apologies lady Tabitha. I did not mean to cause any offense." Arias backpedaled sincerely.

With a sigh, I step away from Albert and shake my head, "There is no offense Arias and I must apologize.  I don't remember you. You see Sergei installed technology onto my spinal cord creating what is known as a sleeper agent. I have holes in my memories from October ninety-eight to February two thousand and three.  The activating phrase was prized bitch in Russian.  I even almost killed Albert here while I was activated. I live through them when my mutations deactivate. I dread the day I relive her death."

"I understand, my wife died in front of me. I couldn't imagine having your daughter die in your arms. My condolences, was she yours as well Dr. Wesker?" Arias asked as the elevator arrived.

"Yes, she was. She was our firstborn although we had to give her up. I wasn't there for Tabitha when she passed. If I knew what Sergei had done there would not have been a corpse, but a pile of ground flesh." Albert growled out.

"Deep breath my treasure, we can't let old grudges be it from our past or with ourselves, rule our lives," I say reaching up and stroking his hair.

"You are immensely wise lady Tabitha," María said.

"Please let us dispense the formalities.  Tabitha is formal enough." I said leading everyone onto the elevator and pressing the down button as I stood beside my husband.

As we descended Albert moved to the front of the moving freight elevator placing a gloved hand on my back "Now dearheart please introduce and detail your research to Mr. Arias."

"Yes show us what I have given you hasn't been a waste," Excella said snobby like.

"As you wish my treasured god." I look up at him ignoring Excella, "Mr. Arias if you would, please lend me your complete and undivided attention. Allow me to walk you through my gift to this disappointment of a world, The Angelis Virus."

I smile wide and bright. Wicked thoughts filled my head and that smile turned into a smirk. Albert stared a me a proud smile on his face. He was showing me off like a prized jewel and I was on cloud nine.

Hey everyone slifarianhawk here and we are moving decently ahead the next chapter is going to be a decent length. So be prepared my dearhearts. The next chapter will be out within the week. Until then my name is Silfarianhawk and I'm not so far away.

[reviewnearme00]

Office-Appropriate Female Perfume Oils: Subtle Scents for Work

In today’s modern professional environments, personal grooming, including fragrance, plays a vital role in making a lasting impression. However, when it comes to wearing perfume at work, subtlety is key. The era of overpowering scents is long gone — now, it’s all about refined, office-appropriate perfume oils that enhance your presence without dominating the room.

Whether you’re stepping into an important meeting, attending a client lunch, or working in close proximity to others, your choice of fragrance is a silent yet powerful communicator. But what makes a perfume suitable for the workplace? How do you ensure longevity without overwhelming your colleagues? That’s where female perfume oils come in.

What Are Perfume Oils and Why Are They Good for the Office?

Before we discuss specific scents, it’s important to understand why perfume oils are more suitable than traditional Eau de Perfume (EDP) or Eau de Toilette (EDT) in work settings.

Lower Sillage & Projection

Perfume oils are more intimate in their diffusion. While EDPs and EDTs spray into the air and may overpower spaces, perfume oils sit closer to the skin, making them ideal for settings where strong scents can be disruptive.

Long-Lasting Scent

Thanks to their high concentration and oil base, perfume oils last longer on the skin. This means your scent lingers gently throughout the workday without the need for frequent reapplication.

Alcohol-Free & Skin-Friendly

Perfume oils typically exclude alcohol, making them gentler on sensitive skin. Less evaporation also means better longevity and gradual scent release.

What Makes a Perfume Work-Appropriate?

When choosing a fragrance for work, consider the following:

✅ Soft Sillage

Your perfume should not fill the room. Instead, let others notice it only when in close proximity.

✅ Neutral with Clean Notes

Favor clean, fresh, and light floral or citrus notes over deep, musky, or overly sweet profiles.

✅ Non-Intrusive Composition

Avoid fragrances with a loud projection or deep animalic notes that may be perceived as offensive in enclosed spaces.

✅ Professional Image

Opt for scents that match a polished, elegant, and poised image.

Top Office-Appropriate Female Perfume Oils

Let’s explore the best perfume oil options for women that are elegant, professional, and perfect for your daily 9 to 5 — all inspired by signature designer fragrances long-lasting, affordable perfume oils.

🎯 1. Inspired by Chanel Chance Eau Tendre — Fresh, Fruity Floral

Fragrance Family: Fresh, Floral, Fruity Main Notes: Grapefruit, Jasmine, White Musk

Softly sparkling and undeniably feminine, this scent is the perfect blend of professionalism and playfulness. Light enough to wear daily, but distinct enough to leave a signature.

✅ Non-offensive ✅ Delicate sillage ✅ Perfect for open-plan offices

🎯 2. Inspired by Dior J’adore — Warm Floral Elegance

Fragrance Family: Floral Main Notes: Ylang-Ylang, Damascus Rose, Jasmine

Feminine and refined, a great choice for senior professionals who want to exude authority and grace. It whispers elegance and commands attention without overpowering.

✅ Sophisticated and polished ✅ Moderate sillage ✅ Works all year round

🎯 3. Inspired by Versace Bright Crystal — Vibrant and Refreshing

Fragrance Family: Floral, Fruity Main Notes: Pomegranate, Peony, Lotus

This oil is a refreshing daytime scent ideal for dynamic workplaces. Energetic but subtle, it opens with a fruity blast and settles into floral softness.

✅ Use during warmer months ✅ Boosts mood — great for high-stress environments ✅ Youthful yet grown-up

🎯 4. Inspired by Chloe EDP — Powdery & Romantic

Fragrance Family: Floral Main Notes: Rose, Lychee, Freesia

An elegant, powdery rose scent perfect for creative industries, teaching, or executive roles. Never loud, but always appreciated.

✅ Feminine & classic ✅ Powdery dry-down ✅ Soft enough for close contact professions

🎯 5. Inspired by Narciso Rodriguez For Her (Musk Version)

Fragrance Family: Musky, Floral Main Notes: Musk, Orange Blossom, Amber

For those who prefer slightly musky elegance, this perfume oil version of “For Her” by Narciso Rodriguez adds a delicate depth that’s intimate, clean, and modern.

✅ Linear & minimalistic ✅ Ideal for minimalist dressers and professionals ✅ Long-lasting but understated

🎯 6. Inspired by Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue — Crisp Citrus

Fragrance Family: Citrus, Fresh Main Notes: Sicilian Lemon, Apple, Cedarwood

A scent that feels like a morning breeze in a bottle. Clean, invigorating, and appropriate even for sensitive associates.

✅ Excellent for summer ✅ Citrus brightness for early meetings ✅ Great first-job or internship choice

🎯 7. Inspired by Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt

Fragrance Family: Aromatic, Marine Main Notes: Ambrette Seed, Sage, Sea Salt

Perfect for corporate or creative offices, this is a unisex favorite that maintains uniqueness without noise. Breezy and contemporary.

✅ Unique office-friendly aroma ✅ Not floral or sweet ✅ Great for daily wear

Why Choose GenericPerfumes?

GenericPerfumes is not your average indie fragrance shop. It’s a tried, tested, and trusted online platform offering inspired perfume oils based on top designer fragrances.

🛍️ Top Reasons to Online Shop

✅ Affordable Luxury: Inspired scents at a fraction of high-end costs

✅ Oil-Based Fragrances: Alcohol-free and suitable for sensitive skin

✅ Broad Selection: 1000+ fragrances for men, women, and unisex styles

✅ Customizable Options: Choose roll-ons, droppers, or bottles

✅ Long-Lasting Concentration: Strong oil-based formulations that last 8–15+ hours

✅ Fast International Shipping: Delivered globally with great customer service

Whether you’re scent layering or simply looking to build a fragrance wardrobe that works for both office and off-hours, they has you covered.

Tips to Wear Fragrance at Work Professionally

🕒 1. Time Your Application

Apply perfume 30 minutes before arriving at work so it settles into the skin and mellows in projection.

👂 2. Target Pulse Points

Dab perfume oil on discreet spots like inner wrists, collarbones, and behind the ears. These areas provide warmth and a subtle projection.

🔁 3. Avoid Excessive Reapplication

With high-quality female perfume oils, a little goes a long way. No need to reapply unless heading to post-work events.

💧 4. Layer with Unscented Lotion

Applying an unscented lotion before your perfume oil helps with scent retention and makes your application kinder to the skin.

👗 5. Be Sensitive to Others

If someone has allergies or a scent sensitivity in your workplace, respect shared spaces. Choose fragrance-free days when needed.

Customer Testimonials: Office-Perfect Picks

⭐ Emma T. — Marketing Manager “I ordered the Chloe EDP oil and it’s become my everyday signature scent. Sophisticated, soft, and never overpowering — got compliments from my boss too!”

⭐ Layla R. — Lawyer “J’adore (Dior inspiration) made me feel like a lady boss. My colleagues noticed the scent but weren’t exposed to a cloud of perfume.”

⭐ Priya K. — HR Professional “Bright Crystal-inspired oil is so refreshing for 9 to 5. I apply it on neck and wrists and it works all day with a clean, fruity pop.”

FAQs: Office Perfume Tips — Most Asked Questions

💬 Q1: What is the most appropriate type of perfume for the workplace?

The best perfumes for workplace are soft, subtle, and light scents with minimal projection, such as citrus, soft florals, or musky-fresh blends. Perfume oils are ideal due to their gentle diffusion.

💬 Q2: Are perfume oils longer-lasting than sprays?

Yes. Perfume oils are often more concentrated and alcohol-free, meaning they last longer on the skin and evaporate slower than sprays.

💬 Q3: What notes should I avoid in office perfumes?

Avoid loud, intense scents like:

Strong oud

Heavy patchouli

Excessive vanilla

Dense amber or incense

Gourmand blends (food-like)

💬 Q4: Can I layer perfume oils with my moisturizer?

Absolutely! Use unscented or mild body lotion first. Then apply perfume oil to enhance longevity and create a subtle scent aura.

💬 Q5: Is it okay to wear perfume in interviews?

Yes, but keep it light. Choose a clean floral or citrus scent with minimal sillage. Consider applying hours before the meeting to allow the fragrance to settle.

💬 Q6: Are GenericPerfumes fragrances authentic?

GenericPerfumes sells inspired fragrances, not originals. Their oils are carefully crafted to closely mimic designer perfumes at a budget-friendly price. They do not claim to be affiliated with any designer brands.

Final Thoughts: Scent at Work Is About Subtle Sophistication

Perfumes in the professional world are a delicate balance of expression and etiquette. The right fragrance doesn’t scream for attention — it whispers confidence, competence, and charm.

Perfume oils, especially from brands, allow you to wear beautiful scents gently and elegantly — without overwhelming your workspace or colleagues.

So, whether you are dressing for your dream-job interview, gearing up for another day at your corporate firm, or just want to feel good at work, there’s a perfect perfume oil waiting for you.

Explore the impressive collection and build a professional fragrance wardrobe that works as hard as you do!

🥂 Looking to smell sophisticated without being distracting? Try a roll-on perfume oils today and let your fragrance work as elegantly as your wardrobe does.

[juliewhite3]

Mailvita Converter for NSF Tool

This tool accurately converts multiple emails from NSF to various file formats, including PST, EML, MBOX, EMLX, PDF, etc. It is compatible with Lotus Notes and Windows OS, as well as MS Outlook editions. During the process, users can retain the database files. Additionally, it permits examining the preview before starting the conversion. It supports all Webmail clients. This application provides the free of cost demo edition to check out it.

[gadgetrumours]

How to Migrate Data from Lotus Notes to Microsoft 365?

Nowadays, it is very common among users to switch from Lotus Notes email clients to the cloud-based SaaS Office 365. While using the Lotus Notes email client, it is a bit technical and has not been enriched with advanced facilities that are available in Microsoft 365. Therefore, users are looking for the best option: migrating data from Lotus Notes to Microsoft 365 mailboxes. This guide will…

[chikucabllp]

Fascinating Delhi with Comfortable Cab Service in Delhi

Delhi, aptly nicknamed ‘The City of Djinns’ as it is the capital city of India is full of culture and modern architecture. Exploring this vast place becomes an easy task with affordable cab service in Delhi. For a tourist or an auto rickshaw-weary local, taxis provide an easy way to navigate Delhi’s famous monuments, bazaars, and parks. These services involve comfortable and specially designed vehicles, efficiently maintained to provide a secure ride by experienced drivers. Exploring the colonial-style areas of New Delhi, or exploring the Old Delhi street markets in a slow and leisurely manner, is possible with the help of a cab.

Simplified Cab Booking in Delhi for Safe Travel

Planning a trip to Delhi? Delhi cab booking services for business make your journey stress-free. Most cab booking in Delhi provides an online booking option which gives people the advantage to book for an online ride. Whether you are going to Red Fort, a historic monument or to India Gate which attracts tourists around the year, a cab will guarantee punctuality. You will always have time to visit famous tourist destinations such as Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, or Dilli Haat and not trouble yourself over transport. For clients who have flown into the airport, there’s always pre-booked car hire to transport you to your preferred location.

Exploring Another Side of Historical Culture in Delhi

New Delhi has always been one of the best examples of the combination of the historical and modern periods. In this realistic cabbie tour of Old Delhi, you visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in the world and the market of Chandni Chowk which is famous for its food and shopping joints. On the same note, Qutub Minar in South Delhi and Hauz Khas Village give such an artistic historical perspective of the city. Do not visit Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple among others for you to appreciate the architectural support of religious diversity in Delhi. When coming to Delhi with an efficient car hire service, you can visit these places safely and enjoy the atmosphere of the city.

Famous Places to Visit with a Taxi Service in Delhi

Indeed, the city of Delhi offers so many places of interest that is quite hard to list them all. Join your sojourn from the synthetic India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan. Next on your list should be Humayun’s Tomb, a World Heritage Site that served as the model for the construction of the Taj Mahal. In South Delhi, go to the Lodhi Gardens which offer and tranquil experience in the afternoon. The National Museum as well as Gandhi Smriti provide a preview of of Indian history and its freedom fighters. It also opens up an opportunity to take a cab and discover the unfamiliar attractions; such as Agrasen Ki Baoli or Majnu Ka Tilla.

Tips for Travelers: Making the Most of Delhi

Always have with you a list of emergency telephone numbers and it is very important that your phone has GPS to enhance its ability to locate directions. For a complete Delhi, experience taste the delicious delicious cuisines starting right from the spicy chaats of Chandni Chowk to the impressive gourmet food of Connaught Place. That means having a good taxi service in Delhi translates to being on your own, touring the city as you wish – seeing its colourful cultures and historic sites.

[fromdevcom]

Looking for Java RSS Feeds? We have compiled a list of java blogs and websites that will keep you up to date with Java technology. RSS feed gives web readers the freedom to choose from bulk of information spread across the World Wide Web. Though there are ways to choose, its not easy to decide what RSS feed you must subscribe and/or NOT subscribe. For choosing the correct feeds, it's important that you search the internet extensively. Below are the Top ten feeds we think perfectly fits the need of a Java Developer to be up to date on cutting edge technologies and related news. MartinFowler.com Martin Fowler is a renowned author, software consultant and speaker. His blog about software technology is a must read for any software developer (Not only Java). RSS - MortinFowler.com RSS Feed Coding Horror Coding Horror is one of the most popular RSS feeds, which is used by more than 115,000 RSS readers. People who are interested in programming or those who are starting into the field of programming, should visit the site as it provides many different types of information. RSS - Codinghorror RSS Feed DZone DZone is for web developers and programmers, and it is one of the most helpful technical sites for developers. There are more than 20,000 subscribers to Dzone RSS feeds (as given on the website) in the popular links, while more than 1000 users are found in the new links section. RSS - DZone Front Page RSS Feed Webappers Webappers is a blog dedicated to open source projects and developers, and it has more than 16,000 regular readers who are web designer or developers. The website has more than 27,437 RSS subscribers. RSS - WebAppers RSS Feed TechCrunch TechCrunch was founded in 2005 and currently, the website gets more than 10 million visitors in a month. The website has a global network and in 2010, the company was acquired by AOL. It has around 1905,000 RSS subscribers throughout the world. RSS - TechCrunch RSS Feed Digg.com Digg is one of the most popular bookmarking sites and it does provide RSS in the field of technology; and there are no hired editors for the articles. Digg promotes the user's stuff and determines the content. Subscribers to Digg API can get all the latest stories, and you can view the stories at the url provided. Digg can be a really good source of latest trending technology news. RSS - Digg Technology RSS Feed Oracle Technology Network for Java Developers [formerly known as Sun Developer Network (SDN) ] This is the official Java developer website which provides latest resources for Java developers. You can access information in three different categories of interest - Java technology highlights, Java ME Technology and Solaris Technology highlights - all three are XML based news feed categories. A Java developer can set up RSS Aware news reader on the client computer to get the latest information. RSS - Sun Developer Network RSS Feed IBM's DeveloperWorks IBM provides tutorials and technical resources for Java students and developers. RSS feeds are provided for information management products, Lotus products, Rational products, Tivoli products, Websphere products and IBM software products. The user can download a RSS reader and subscribe to feeds which have a title of content which is like a tech-note, a description and a link to the content. RSS - DeveloperWorks RSS Feed O' Reilly OnJava The website was established in 2000 and it provides news about the latest innovations in Java as well as quality code snippets. It has numerous Java based coding examples. Moreover' it provides news in number of sections such as Java and XML, Java IDE Tools, security, SysAdmin, servlets, open source, P2P, web services and wireless Java. RSS - OnJava RSS Feed Reddit Programming Reddit is another popular bookmarking website, just like digg.com. It. Its programming feed contains some of the interesting articles related to Java. RSS - OnJava RSS Feed It's quintessential

for a Java developer to subscribe to some of the best RSS feeds, in order to be in sync with latest developments in technology, and consequently utilize the knowledge of the latest software breakthroughs for better Java programming and development. At the moment, very few web avenues can match the hassle free and minute by minute updates of RSS feeds. Really simple syndication or RSS refers to a syndication format which is used to view updated news, headlines, videos and audios in the standard format. An RSS feed contains a channel, a title, link, description and language followed by series of items. The original RSS was 0.90 version designed by Netscape. UserLand later evolved it to form 0.9 x branches, which can be used for metadata rich syndication. RSS feeds prevent the need to individually visit websites to see the latest content or modified content as you automatically get it through feeds anytime, as per your convenience. Do you subscribe to a RSS feed which is not part of this list? Please don't forget to share it with me in comments section & I will try to include it in the list.

[andrealeocoutures-blog]

Creating an Ethereal Ambiance in Your Wedding Dress Boutique

For a dress boutique that specializes in whimsical, romantic wedding dresses, cultivating an ethereal atmosphere is key. The right ethereal aesthetic can transport your clients into a dreamlike space that enhances the enchanting experience of shopping for a special occasion dress or gown.

With the perfect mix of delicate decor elements and mood lighting, you can establish an air of magic and beauty that plays up the mystical qualities of your dress offerings. Here are some tips on how to make your dress boutique feel utterly ethereal.

Gorgeous Wholesale Wedding Gowns

Of course, you have to start with an elegant collection of wholesale gowns that come in pretty pastels and feature whimsical designs that give storybook romance and fantasy. Andrea and Leo’s collection of wholesale wedding gowns include romantic silhouettes and avant-garde designs that will have customers feeling like they’re the lead in a love story unlike any other.

Incorporate Airy, Sheer Fabrics

One of the most impactful ways to infuse diaphanous, ethereal vibes into your boutique is through the use of gossamer, lightweight fabrics. Consider draping sheer linen, cotton voile, organza, or silk chiffon panels, strings of fabric, or even cascading fabric "clouds" from the ceiling at varying lengths.

Not only does this create a beautiful dimension, it also lends an airy, dreamy quality. You can also use gauzy curtains as lush backdrops for your dress displays. The sheer textiles, when lit properly, will seem to float on ethereal breezes in the space.

Blur Boundaries with Frosted Mirrors

Installing antique or distressed frosted, bronze or smoked mirrored surfaces is another fantastic technique for cultivating an ethereal aesthetic. Frosted mirrors or mirrored backgrounds behind dress displays helps to blur visual boundaries and shape, resulting in an airy, hazy, out-of-focus effect.

Consider affixing multiple mismatched antiqued mirrors of varying shapes and sizes to create a visually intriguing mirrored wall display nook. The warped, dreamlike reflections will feel supremely atmospheric and surreal.

Create Drama with Celestial Lighting

Lighting is another crucial aspect for establishing an ethereal ambiance. Replace harsh overheads with warm, diffused lighting that emits a soft, celestial-inspired glow. Try incorporating twinkling string fairy or globe lights in strategic areas, placing lit candles atop mirrored surfaces, or installing unique sculptural lighting fixtures reminiscent of clouds, moons or stars.

Up-lighting dress displays can also help accentuate the airiness of fabrics. Just a few pools of slightly dimmer, flickering light will enhance the feeling of existing in a transcendent, otherworldly space.

Incorporate Nature-Inspired Elements

Bringing in nature-centric touches will prevent an overly sterile feel and connect your boutique space to the earthiness of the ethereal aesthetic. Lush plants like fluffy pampas grass fronds, wispy dried fronds, or even fresh flower installations woven into structural elements add lovely, ethereal layers of texture and dimension.

Delicate seashells, branches, vines or geodes from nature can be artfully arranged into displays or centerpieces. If possible, consider installing a small water feature like a trickling fountain or shallow pool - the soft sounds will lend tranquil ambiance.

Elevate with Celestial Aromas

Finally, scent plays an underrated yet highly impactful role in composing ethereal atmospherics. Aromatic fragrances like sage or palo santo can give the space a delightfully hypnotic, slightly mystical essence.

Lighter floral scents like white lotus, moonflower or jasmine also impart lovely, celestial notes perfect for an ethereal dress boutique. Candles and essential oil diffusers are easy ways to subtly incorporate hints of these delicate, dreamy aromas.

With these ethereal ambiance tips, your dress boutique can become a truly experiential oasis of beauty, romance and wonder. Clients will feel instantly transported as soon as they step inside your exquisitely atmospheric space designed to highlight the gorgeously whimsical dresses and gowns. By blending whimsical dresses, celestial lighting, natural elements and intoxicating scents, you'll create a boutique that's utterly swathed in ethereal enchantment.

For more information about Formal Dresses Wholesale and evening gowns wholesale please visit:- Andrea & Leo Couture

[weeom20]

Weeom Latest NSF to PST Converter

Weeom NSF to PST converter formerly known as IBM Notes, and Microsoft Outlook are two different email clients with distinct file formats. Weeom NSF to PST converter user-friendly interfaces and robust algorithms, these converters enable individuals and organizations to transition smoothly from Lotus Notes to Outlook, reduce potential data loss, and minimize disruption. This converter makes sure that all the information is transferred with precision and that the original structure and hierarchy are maintained. Many converters are also capable of offering such facilities as batch converting, data filtering, and attachment support, which makes the process a lot smoother and easier to handle. The conversion tool ensures all your emails, calendars, and everything else that is crucial with dates are safely converted to PST files with complete loss of no data. The program has fast processing which reduces time, and accepts all NSF files, which makes this application perfect for both professionals and the end-users.

More to get: https://www.weeom.com/blog/convert-nsf-to-pst/

[akbran-tours]

Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore by Akbran Tours Company.

Introduction The Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore is a popular tourist route in India that connects the three historically significant towns of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. Akbran Tours' itinerary includes Ranthambore National Park, providing a one-of-a-kind combination of cultural exploration and animal experience. The Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore combines breathtaking landmarks in North India with thrilling safaris in one of India's top national parks, noted for its Bengal tiger population.

Why Should You Go on the Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore? This tour is great for anyone wishing to combine India's cultural and historical riches with the thrill of wildlife discovery. The tour's numerous experiences make it ideal for families, couples, and single adventurers alike.

Cultural and wildlife exploration in a one tour. The tour offers a diverse range of cultural experiences, including visits to world-famous buildings such as the Taj Mahal and the chance to witness wildlife in its native habitat at Ranthambore National Park.

A distinctive blend of history, culture, and nature This journey provides a more holistic perspective of India by include Ranthambore on the conventional Golden Triangle route, allowing you to marvel at both man-made wonders and the majesty of nature.

An Overview of Akbran Tours Company Akbran Tours is well-known for its well prepared itineraries and excellent service. The organization specializes in creating excursions that highlight India's tradition, culture, and natural beauty.

History and reputation. Akbran Tours has established itself as a reputable name in the travel sector, with years of experience organizing unforgettable tours throughout India. Their competence in designing varied travel experiences makes them a popular choice among many travelers.

Specialization in Cultural and Wildlife Tours. Akbran Tours specializes at combining cultural discovery with nature adventures. Their Golden Triangle Tour, which includes Ranthambore, is intended to provide an in-depth look at India's heritage as well as an exhilarating wildlife trip.

Customer feedback and testimonials Travelers often praise Akbran Tours for its well-planned itineraries, competent guides, and dedication to client satisfaction. Positive feedback emphasizes the company's capacity to provide enriching and entertaining travel experiences.

Detailed itinerary for Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore Day 1: Arrive in Delhi. Welcome and transfer to the hotel. When you arrive in Delhi, an Akbran Tours representative will greet you and organize a transfer to your accommodation. After you check in, you'll have the remainder of the day to relax or visit neighboring sights at your leisure.

Optional evening exploration. If you have time, go for an evening stroll around Delhi's bustling markets or visit one of the city's many historic landmarks.

Day 2: Exploring Delhi. Full-Day Sightseeing Tour Your day in Delhi will include excursions to some of the city's most important historical and cultural monuments, providing an insight into India's complex legacy.

Red Fort and the Jama Masjid Begin with a visit to the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that represents India's vivid history. Continue to Jama Masjid, one of India's largest and most impressive mosques.

Rajghat and India Gate Pay your respects at Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi's memorial, and travel through the city to India Gate, a war memorial that honors Indian warriors.

Qutub Minar and Humayun Tomb Explore Qutub Minar, a towering example of Indo-Islamic architecture, and Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and forerunner of the Taj Mahal.

The Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple Visit the Lotus Temple, famed for its unusual flower-like appearance, and the Akshardham Temple, a modern masterpiece showcasing Indian culture and spirituality, to round up your trip of Delhi.

Day 3: Delhi to Agra. Morning drive to Agra. After breakfast, take a picturesque journey to Agra, the home of the magnificent Taj Mahal. When you arrive, check into your hotel and plan an afternoon of exploring.

The Agra Fort Visit Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that provides a fascinating peek into the splendor of the Mughal Empire. Discover its palaces, mosques, and public halls.

Visit the Taj Mahal at sunset. At dusk, the Taj Mahal's white marble takes on a warm, golden tone, revealing its fascinating splendor. Your skilled guide will explain the love story that inspired its development.

Day four: Agra to Ranthambore (via Fatehpur Sikri). Morning Visit to the Taj Mahal (Optional) For an amazing experience, go to the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the first light of day puts a peaceful glow over the monument.

Drive to Ranthambore with a stop in Fatehpur Sikri. After breakfast, drive for Ranthambore, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient Mughal capital. Explore the well-maintained palaces, courtyards, and mosques.

Arrival at Ranthambore. Once you arrive at Ranthambore, check into your hotel or safari lodge. The evening is free for you to unwind and prepare for the wildlife experience ahead.

Day 5: Wildlife Safaris in Ranthambore National Park (morning and afternoon) Your day in Ranthambore will be spent exploring the park's rich animals during morning and afternoon safaris. Ranthambore is noted for its Bengal tigers, leopards, deer, and a variety of bird species.

Spotting Bengal Tigers and Other Wildlife With the assistance of trained naturalists, you will go through the park's several zones, where you will get the opportunity to see Bengal tigers in their natural environment. Keep a watch out for sloth bears, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Exploring the Ruins of Ranthambore Fort In between safaris, you can explore the ancient Ranthambore Fort, which has spectacular views of the park and its surrounds. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage monument of important historical value.

Evening of Leisure After a day of wildlife exploration, spend the evening at your accommodation to rest and reflect on your safari experience.

Day 6: Ranthambore-Jaipur Morning drive to Jaipur After breakfast, drive to Jaipur, Rajasthan's capital and the third point of the Golden Triangle. Check into your hotel and unwind before venturing out for the evening.

Evening tour of Jaipur If you have time, you can visit Jaipur's bustling markets, which are noted for their colorful fabrics, jewelry, and handicrafts. Jaipur, commonly known as the Pink City, is renowned for its royal history and architectural magnificence.

Day 7: Jaipur Full-Day Sightseeing Tour. Your day in Jaipur will be jam-packed with excursions to the city's most famous attractions, which highlight its regal history and architectural grandeur.

Amber Fort Begin with a visit to Amber Fort, a beautiful hilltop fort noted for its ornate carvings and breathtaking vistas. You can visit the fort by vehicle or on foot and explore its lovely palaces, courtyards, and gardens.

City Palace, Jantar Mantar Explore the City Palace, a spectacular complex of Mughal and Rajput architecture, as well as Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory and UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Visit the Hawa Mahal, Jaipur's renowned pink sandstone monument created to allow royal women to observe street life without being seen. Its distinctive architecture and lattice windows are a photographer's dream.

Cultural evening (Optional) End the day with an optional cultural evening at a heritage hotel, which will include traditional Rajasthani music and dancing, as well as a delicious dinner.

Day 8 - Jaipur to Delhi Morning drive Back to Delhi After breakfast, you'll leave for Delhi. The beautiful drive provides a final opportunity to appreciate the grandeur of Rajasthan's surroundings.

Arrival in Delhi, transfer to the airport When you arrive in Delhi, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward travel, which will bring your Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore to an end.

Why Akbran Tours is the best choice. Specialization in Cultural and Wildlife Tours Akbran Tours combines extensive experience with a thorough awareness of India's cultural and natural heritage. The Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore is intended to deliver a rich and immersive travel experience.

Professional and knowledgeable guides. Akbran Tours hires advisors who are not only informed about India's history and culture, but also enthusiastic about wildlife. Their insights are extremely valuable to your tour.

Attention to Detail Akbran Tours is well-known for its rigorous preparation and attention to detail, which ensure that every part of your vacation, from transportation to hotels, is handled with care.

Value for Money Akbran Tours' travel packages offer outstanding value for money, combining high-quality service with a comprehensive itinerary that highlights the finest of India's cultural and natural features.

Conclusion Akbran Tours' Golden Triangle Tour with Ranthambore is an ideal opportunity to discover India's rich history, vibrant culture, and spectacular wildlife. This tour offers a unique combination of architectural wonders and thrilling animal adventures, making it an outstanding