#Sashing stigma

[shangtusianheroes]

She seemed to perk up a little when Surge allowed her to stick around. She was very use to the stigma about water dragons scaring people off back home. So a world where that didn't exist was still strange to her. A nice change, but one that still surprised her every day she was on Mobius.

" Lilac! Sash Lilac, but everyone just calls me Lilac... probably because of the fur! It's a pleasure to meet you both! "

No need to complicate things with her position on her own world, she wasn't the hero here. That was ok, she could use a break from all that hero stuff anyway.

" Fast as lightning huh? That's a tall order, catching lightning is no small task! But giving up isn't a Dragon's way! You just need a little faith in yourself! and some determination! "

Lilac was quick to try and boost Kit's faith in himself! After all if he didn't have faith in his own abilities he'd ultimately fail. She knew that better then most! If Carol had one thing going for her it was her stubborn nature! she never gave up! and she never let Lilac give up either.

" So what kind of speed training are you doing with him? might help to know, I spent a lot of my child hood training my tail off. I might have a few ideas! "

She asked as she turned to Surge and placed her hands on her hips confidently! Maybe she could use some of that Red Scarf training she was forced into, to help these two out! Maybe a little less on the horrible beatings though--- and a little more focus on the little guys problems!

The two look at her as she explained. They then looked at each other with a hum.

"Ya know what? Sure, fine. Guess a third training partner real quick wouldn't hurt. Name's Surge, he's Kit. Right now, I'm working on my dodging, Kit is working on attack speed. Little guy just can't go as fast as me, so we've been trying to cover that shortcoming." Surge gives the run down.

"I mean, you have lightning fast speed, literally. It's hard to even come close to that..." Kit mumbles, a bit embarrassed. He doesn't think he can get near Surge's level of speed, but he does know he needs to work on it.

[smashingstigma-blog]

Who else has had a similar encounter?

Autism speaks supporter: "Autism speaks is so good." "That is so offensive, they are people with autism." "I work with children with autism I KNOW what I'm talking about." "My sisters friends brother in laws aunties godchild has autism so I get it." "Autism speaks lets people with autism speak." ACTUAL AUTISTIC PERSON: "Actually..." Autism speaks supporter: *ableism babbling* "You probably don't even have autism." "You need access to behavioural support." "You don't know what you're talking about." *dehumanising conversation.* (If you support autism speaks, listen to actual autistic people. It hurts when you think you are doing a good thing and someone says you maybe aren't doing the best. People don't like being told they aren't supporting properly when they think they are, honestly I don't blame you because logically thinking why would leading global charities be harmful to the people they claim to support? It's stupid! But they are so just listen to us.)

[askfallenroyalty]

New Designs! Because of the polls and the darkworld taking place in Asgore's "Flower King" shop again, Feylow can be a goat again. design is more heavily daffodil themed, the head looks more like the corona while the shoulder... thing... (idk what they're called, its too big to be just a collar?) is the tepals. which makes more sense regarding the coloring as the corona is what typically gets the darker edges and not the tepals.

all skirt are the leaves, feet are the bulbs. sash based on a stigma.

(Feylow's redesign influenced by Moon's design)

The angel wings are tiny and fit on the back, normally not visible.

Ruler, the "Flower King" (Though Ruler is a nonbinary they/them) is based on a Crown of Thorns flower.

They're influenced by Chara's perception of what it means to be an adult.

Ruler is a mob "boss" (pun on boss monster), a greedy capital chasing murdering fem fatale. They sin, they're a "devil." A toxic (literally, as the flower they're based on is toxic) and have a blood/thorn visual motif. They rule with an iron fist, they're a dictator. (They're similar to Queen in some regards, but Queen is more... benevolent and (mostly) harmless. Has good intentions. This is NOT the case with Ruler. They're a proper villain out for themselves.)

There's aspects of the adults who've abandoned Chara in Ruler, mainly Chara's birth mother, Tom the stepdad and Asriel. Becoming an adult is something that corrupts you into something sinister. It's less so the poeple themselves, but the painful aspects that overshadow who they are. They're caricatures, boild down to simple ideas.

but that's hardly all they are. If you squint, you'll see those aspects, but it's more so what Chara fears they'll become like. In a sense, Ruler is a mirror to Chara's fear of what being an adult would look like AND what they could want. They're very much the IDEA of what's bad with adulthood -drugs, sex, violence, money. I never touch the topic of Chara's love life even when they become an adult mostly because I feel Chara's a very private person with a lot of trauma and mental health issues that a relationship is the last thing on their mind.

...But that isn't to say that stuff doesn't worry the hell out of them. There are feelings they repress. Despite their darkworld form being a cherub, Chara IS 16. It's a natural part of growing up to have more adult feelings and desires. (speaking as asexual, even asexuality is a spectrum. i'm not giving chara any specific sexuality here, just saying even asexuality is still on the table.)

Chara wants to fight this boss so frickin bad. Feylow is just embarrassed their older sibling is beefing with their new friend.

But yeah so there's never any 1-1 analog for either of these darkners, when boiled down they're "childhood innocence" vs. "sinful adulthood." They're neither Chara nor the people they knew, and they get their own histories outside the Dreemurr Family.

I assume at the very least Asgore is going to be involved, with it being his shop. I think it'd be funny if Raine pulled a Berdly and tried to partner up with Ruler to get some authority -only to realize the extent of Ruler's depravity and ineptness and side with Chara & co. to defeat them. But I feel that's retreading what happened with the other fallen kids when usurping Asgore and too similar to Queen. But hey, first draft version of the ideas you know?

Anyway Frisk REALLY needs their own stuff going on the plot, they're too reactive and inactive in the story and needs their own B plot. (Or rather, Chara's needs to be the B-Plot, cause it can easily just turn into sulking/anger with little progress for a while)

[itsamiraculous]

The Agreste and Bourgeois Families

I’ve been thinking a lot about the friendship between Adrien and Chloé’s  families, after everything with Queen Banana, and how entwined their families are, so it’s no wonder Adrien and Chloé grew up together. 

I have already mentioned about the Flower Brooch that we see Emilie is wearing the exact same as the one Chloé gives Sabrina, meaning that it is a token of friendship in the first place, probably through Emilie and Audrey?

Now after the recent S4 episode Sole Crusher, we know that it was Andre who was the director of the film Solitude

The fact that the film is also Graham films suggest that it was produced by the Graham de Vanily family, also the logo of the two rings!!!! 

So this may have been the very project that brought the two families together.  And as someone pointed out, it looks like Ms Tsurgi was also a part of the film as well, potentially. They do look incredibly similar. 

There is a reason why there is so much stigma around this film, other than the fact that Adrien was scared his father wouldn’t let him see it because of the memories of his mother. It was was a Graham de Vanily production, but Emilie was an Agreste at the time, and Andre Bourgeois was the director, and I imagine that Audrey and Gabriel also worked in the costume department as well. If we get a flashback episode (which we might with an episode labelled “Gabriel Agreste”) of the adults, I would like to see the production, and know the dynamics of them all back then.

What I want to also mention is the rose. I have been rewatching season 2 and when it got to the Queen’s Battle trilogy I thought about the rose more. Audrey wears one and it's hard to go unnoticed, it becomes her akumatized item 

Then she leaves it with Adrien to protect it and him in that glass shelter.  I get the sleeping beauty and snow white references, but it had to be Adrien didn't it and in a casket no less.  

So who else has roses around them, in a glass casket in this episode and in Queen Wasp?

I have a feeling that Emilie left such an impression on Audrey (as we know Gabriel did with his talent) that roses are a symbol that Audrey decided to remember her by. This is something so strange for Audrey to actually have some kind of compassion, but it is perceived so far that Emilie left a very loving impression on people. Alongside the Brooch as well, I couldn’t not think that they too had a close friendship.

The Bourgeois and the Agreste families were super close... it is going to be interesting if we learn anything more with Adrien and Chloé no longer being friends, and Zoé is allowed us insight to the Bourgeois family. I hope Adrien discovers more about his, now that he is gradually becoming more isolated.

I have already started to discuss Adrien ending his friendship with Chloé, but I also wanted to expand and talk about how Gabriel was telling Lila that Adrien’s friendship with Chloé would not be an easy one to break. Though this was in Miraculer and was probably for motivational purposes. I just find it interesting how it ended because of Adrien, and also Chloé‘s hardened perspective. This season seems to like giving Adrien hard time it seems, so now he’s lost both  Chloé and Kagami, and is “losing” Ladybug as well. I just don’t know whether Gabriel was actually sincere in telling Lila that it would be a hard friendship to break.

Something else that isn’t important, but clearly intentional is the colour schemes of the Agreste and the Bourgeois families

Audrey and Andre black and white, blue eyes, both have red accents, Audrey having gold accents and Andre with the French flag sash.

Emilie and Gabriel... Emilie black and white with accents of gold, green eyes. Gabriel, white with grey but red and gold accents. 

Then with Chloé and Adrien; Chloé black, white and yellow with blue accents. Adrien black and white but with several accents of blues, orange, yellow and green. Adrien’s complexity is meant to suggest that he is more complex anyway.

The black and white seem to be the common thing with the gold/yellow and potentially red accents suggest to me that there is an uncomplex view of the world at large, the gold and red being that of prestige.

These two families are inexplicably tied to each other and I am really interested in their history and I kind of want Chloé and Adrien to make up with each other.

[designingthebarricades]

Prologue Part 2: Digne

The rest of the prologue sees Valjean struggle to support himself after being released from Toulon because of the stigma of having been in prison. We get our first glimpse at life outside the prison, and the introduction of Valjean’s redemption with the Bishop.

Valjean

Valjean needs to look rough and unkempt during this portion of the story. The book describes him thus:

“He might have been forty-six or forty-eight years old. A cap with a drooping leather visor partly concealed his face, burned and tanned by sun and wind, and dripping with perspiration. His shirt of coarse yellow linen, fastened at the neck by a small silver anchor, permitted a view of his hairy breast: he had a cravat twisted into a string; trousers of blue drilling, worn and threadbare, white on one knee and torn on the other; an old gray, tattered blouse, patched on one of the elbows with a bit of green cloth sewed on with twine; a tightly packed soldier knapsack, well buckled and perfectly new, on his back; an enormous, knotty stick in his hand; iron-shod shoes on his stockingless feet. . . “ (Volume 1 Book 2 Chapter 1, “The Evening After a Day of Walking”).

He is ragged from traveling on foot, and his clothes are still prison-adjacent. He obviously doesn’t have family support or a stable home where he’d have the opportunity to care for his clothing.

The Rural Poor

We see Valjean traveling through rural, mountainous southwestern France. Digne is fairly remote and rural. For the laborers, we might want to look at the early realist paintings of Millet. Though created well after the 1810s, they paint a decidedly un-idealized vision of pre-industrial peasants. These work clothes are so far removed from what would be considered “fashion” that the women’s clothing in particular resemble 17th century depictions of peasants more so than contemporary fashion.

Millet, The Gleaners

For the innkeeper and the innkeeper’s wife, we can take a look at depictions of rural peasants who appear to be living in slightly better conditions. We can definitely see the impact of the changing silhouette of fashion in the cut of jackets and bodices, though modified for practicality’s sake. Headwear is geared toward function rather than fashion, while shoes vary from rough-hewn leather to wooden clogs.

Anne-Xavier Leprince, Paysanne Acoudée et Homme Lisant

The rural workers might blend into the landscape in shades of brown and green, while the people who perpetuate the stigma of the prison against Valjean are in shades of blue that echo Javert’s uniform.

The Bishop

Catholic vestments are almost as prescriptive as the uniforms in the last scene. However, we can make some choices that communicate the Bishop’s unique perspective on his role in the town. The book draws an explicit parallel between the revolutionary red of the phrygian cap and the red in the Bishop’s attire:

“Monseigneur, people are inquiring when Your Greatness will receive the red cap!"—"Oh! oh! that's a coarse color," replied the Bishop. "It is lucky that those who despise it in a cap revere it in a hat.” - Les Misérables,  Volume 1 Book 1 Chapter X, “The Bishop in the Presence of an Unknown Light”

By including the sash and skullcap along with the Bishop’s cassock, we can incorporate more of the red that denotes both the “miserables” in our production, and, eventually, revolution.

[petersasteria]

Giving Up The Crown - Peter Parker

Parker || Main || Taglist

Requested? Nah. 870 words Aged up!Peter

* * * *

"How are you feeling?" Peter asked as he looked at you through the mirror in your dressing room. He stood behind you and put his hands on your shoulders, lightly massaging it. You took a deep breath and looked up at him with a small smile, "I'm alright. It's just a bittersweet moment. That's all."

"That's true, but you're letting another person fulfill their dreams. Besides, just because you don't have the crown anymore, doesn't mean that you have to stop helping the world."

"You're right." You looked at your reflection and nodded.

"No one will forget what you did and you'll always be Ms. Universe in my eyes." Peter said sweetly and you giggled.

"Thank you, Pete."

He leaned down and kissed your cheek, making your worries go away. "Well, I'll go back to my seat now. Good luck." Peter said before leaving.

You looked at yourself in the mirror as you stood up from your chair, smoothing down your red dress. It wasn't wrinkled, but you liked the feeling of the material. Before you knew it, you were being called on stage for your final walk as Miss Universe.

You took a deep breath before walking on stage with a big smile on your face as you waved at everybody. The place was packed and you could see Peter with your friends and family and you waved at them too. Then, as if your final walk wasn't emotional enough, your voice over for the final walk started playing.

"Growing up, I saw different people at their lowest and I've always wanted to do something about it. Our generation is so powerful that we, as a society, remove the stereotypes and stigma, especially for women. I believe that women can do more and be more than what society dictates them to be. I wanted my year to inspire young girls; to be who they want to be without anyone telling them otherwise. I used my voice and platform for the good from helping the homeless to providing education for the youth, especially to those who are unable to go to school."

"Thank you to: my parents who have been very supportive of me since day one, my mentors, the Miss Universe organization, to my friends, to my outstanding team, and to Peter who always kept me grounded and on track. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart."

"And to my beloved country, this has been a wild ride and I am forever honored to be your Miss Universe. You inspire me and give me hope all the time. Thank you so so much!"

"Last, but not the least, thank you God. I lift everything up to you as I close this chapter of my life with a grateful heart."

"To all the dreamers, all your dreams are valid and in your journey to fulfill your dreams, you are in control."

You walked to the center of the stage and waved again, trying not to cry. The crowd erupted into cheers and it made you smile.

"Y/N Y/L/N, everybody!" The host said and you walked to where you're supposed to stand as they announced the winners.

The top 3 ladies, Ms. Haiti, Ms. Romania, and Ms. Vietnam, stood in the middle with their hands together. You were admittedly nervous for them, but you know that whoever will be in your place is going to do a great job.

"The second runner-up is..." The host looked at their card and said, "Ms. Haiti!"

You smiled and clapped as Ms. Haiti received a bouquet of flowers and a sash was put on her.

The lights dimmed and you knew they were going to announce the new Miss Universe now. Your heart was beating fast and you were just as eager as everyone else.

"One of you is about to become our new Miss Universe. If for any reason the winner is unable to fulfill her duties, the first runner-up will take her place. Good luck to you both." The host said.

Then there was a long pause. You could hear a few people shouting the names of Ms. Romania and Ms. Vietnam as they stood facing each other and holding hands.

"The new Miss Universe is..." The host said as they opened the card to reveal the winner. "Vietnam!" The host announced excitedly as the crowd cheered.

You all clapped for Ms. Vietnam and the lights were all bright again. The bouquet was handed to her and one of the staff members handed you your crown to give to Ms. Vietnam.

Once Ms. Vietnam was all sashed up, you walked to her with a big smile on your face as you put the crown on her head.

"Congratulations!" You squealed excitedly. She turns to you with a grateful smile, "Thank you! You're my inspiration."

Your heart warmed and you pulled her in for a quick hug before the host announced that she shall now do her first walk as Miss Universe. You stayed where you are and you had a proud look on your face. This chapter of your life may be closed, but you are excited for what the next chapter of your life awaits you.

* * * *

𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐏𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓: @blueleatherbag @cocoamoonmalfoy @thatforgottenangel @parkerpeter24 @slutforsr @givebuckyhisplumsnow @buckys-little-hoe @runawayolives @chewymoustachio @just-here-to-escape-from-reality @yourstrulyamour @beverlythrillz @pearce14 @juliediggory @yaya4302 @alexx-stancati @rumplebutterbaby @dummiesshort @spideyspeaches @moonlight-onyx @marvelsimps @angelsgrxzer @dreamy-clousds @bora-world @hunnybunimdun @supred12 @more-like-reyna @caitsymichelle13 @aayaissaa @oliviabren03 @wannabemobwife

𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓: @holland-styles @trustfundparker @alinastarkrovs @felicityparkers @hufflepuffprincess24 @tommysparker @justasmisunderstoodasloki @quaksonhehe @call-me-baby-gir1 @itstaskeen @theonly1outof-a-billion @lost-in-the-stars03 @justafangirlduh @piscesparker @speedymaximoff @miraclesoflove @lexirv @blairscott @getbywithasmile @pqrkerr @lavender-writer @blackbat2020 @hoodpankow @bi-lmg @emmastarz @moonchild-s-blog

[mikkeneko]

Within a few months, Prince Qionglin returned for the last time: dressed in grander robes than ever before, with fine gold and jade jewelry decked about his person. From a magic pouch at his waist he brought forth a basket as tall as the woodsman's youngest child, full to the brim with food and gifts: oranges, dates, dried fruits, fragrant spices, nuts and berries and the finest white rice they had ever seen. From the magic pouch too he drew forth gifts of sashes and shoes, cloaks and jewels, all the perfect size for Yu Ye. When these gifts were laid out the Prince knelt on the hearth before the woodsman and his wife, and he said:

"Sir, ma'am, I would like to ask permission to marry your daughter, because Young Master Wei keeps saying that I need to meet more pretty ladies, but I don't think I will ever meet a lady who is any more pretty than Yu Ye."

--

Side story for my Yakety Sax verse, explaining how Wen Ning ended up marrying someone completely out of left field. 

When I was making notes for the Golden Future epilogue of Refrain,  trying to figure out where each of them would be in sixteen years, the question of Wen Ning’s family status was a puzzle. Would he marry a man, a woman, or remain happily single? I decided against ‘single’ because that’s how he ends up in the main canon-verse, for good or for ill, and I wanted to try something different for him. But eventually it struck me: like Mianmian before him, Wen Ning would be happiest marrying someone who was not involved in the bullshit of the cultivation world at all. 

Among the cultivation world, golden future or no, Wen Ning is always going to face a certain amount of stigma: weak cultivation, ill health, tarnished family name. But standing alone on his own merits, not being constantly compared to certain others in his family, Wen Ning would show up like a damn Prince Charming! He’s handsome, rich, kind and honorable as all get-out, great at archery, and even a ‘mediocre’ golden core gives him strength and endurance and magic powers! And as long as you don’t know too much about his family history, the fact that he is the nephew of one Fantasy Lord and the brother-in-law of another is a hell of a pedigree!

This was all sounding very fairy tale-ish, so I decided to straight up put him in a fairy tale, where he would meet a typical fairy tale heroine: a young woman of humble birth and poor means, but beautiful and virtuous and filial as all get-out. And since neither she nor her family would be entirely comfortable living in backbiting cultivator society, Wen Ning moves them in with the Wen Remnants at Linqing Village: they can live more or less the lifestyle they are familiar with, but with significantly better access to food, healthcare, and protection against danger.

[insomniac-jay]

Remastering My Goodbye Despair Girls Redesigns

Chiaki Nanami

Chubby Chiaki with an ahoge, braces, acne, and glasses? Yes please.

She wears a Princess Peach tank top, Pikachu headband, Pacman hoodie with several pins about gaming and a transfem flag on it, lilac shorts with MLP, rainbows, and flowers on it, kitty socks, and pastel Crocs. They wear a Pokeball backpack.

Sonia Nevermind

I wanted her to look casual because of this. I imagine she’d dress like an alt girl bc she saw them on Tiktok and thought that the girls her age were into that kind of style so she cut her hair and dyed it a rainbow to seem easier on the eyes. I also imagine she’d be into the pastel goth and lolta. 

She wears a black turtleneck, sleeveless purple lolita dress with coffins and bats and crosses, a few chains on one side, and black platform boots with red bat wings on it. She carries a skull shaped purse around.

Akane Owari

I decided to give her dyed pink hair and put it up in two curly puffs.

She wears a red headband, half white half red leotard, red gym shorts, and black sneakers with red accents. She also has fangs bc I say so and she has bandages around her hands and wrists.

Mikan Tsumiki

I took inspiration from the yami kawaii style which seeks to end the stigma around mental health in Japan and raise awareness.

Fae wears faer hair buns and a pair of round glasses. Fae wears a pastel checkered sweatshirt, a Menhera shirt over it, the light blue skirt from canon, and white tights with cuts and bruises. Fae has red under faer eyes. Fae also wears a cute nurse hat.

Ibuki Mioda

I decided to combine both scene and cyber goth and nyas beta design with the gas mask so bear with me.

Nya wears a black fishnet shirt, a shirt of nyas favorite band from nyas middle school years, a chunky belt, frilly rainbow skirt, rainbow fishnets, rainbow leg warmers, and holographic demonias. Nya also wears a pair of glittery bat wings on her back and neon striped arm warmers with lots of kandi. She also wears chains on her belt with charms.

Hiyoko Saionji

I decided to give her a Hikizuri kimono since they were worn by wealthy women of a high rank in ancient Japan and by traditional dancers in modern times, which fits Hiyoko perfectly.

She wears an orange Hikizuri kimono with floral patterns, long obi sash, and the headpiece from her despair design. She also wears socks with sandals and wears her hair in an updo.

Mahiru Koizumi

I wanted to give her that cottagecore but butch look so I did.

She wears a white dress shirt with a pocket over her chest, baby pink pants with floral patterns, yellow suspenders with gummy bear designs (her gf gave them to her) and a trans and lesbian pin, dark greenish brown cropped jacket, and a sunhat with a pink ribbon to top it all off.

Honestly I’d like to hold hands with Mahiru in a field with this redesign

Peko Pekoyama

She deserves to look like the badass warrior lady we deserved. This is inspired by an instagram user’s Peko redesign.

She wears a white undershirt, black hakama jacket with the symbol of the Kuzuryu clan, black belt with silver lining, black shorts, and knee high combat boots. She also has a red band on her arm which is a reference to a certain someone. She also cut her hair to be faster.

Reblogs > Likes

[thosequeenboys]

Weep Not for the Memories (John Deacon x Freddie Mercury)

Summary:  John is devastated after Freddie’s death. A nighttime visit from his departed friend helps him contemplate moving forward, as he grapples with the loss.

A/N:  Yup, this is sad.  BUT I try to be a glass-is-half-full sort of gal, so the story shows how Freddie helps John cope with the loss by keeping their memories close and embracing all the good in his life as he considers his future. Here’s to lovely memories of Freddie, to those Queen boys who loved him – and still do and this community that celebrates him!

Special thanks to @painkiller80 for providing great edits and to @melisa-may-taylor72 for those Japan videos, which showed me the perfect outfit for Freddie :) 

Warnings:  Mention of death, sorrow, some tooth-rotting song lyrics (bolded & referenced at the end)

The November Sunday morning dawned grey and damp as most did that time of year. A wind whipped up the fallen leaves and blew them into almost perfect whirling oblong circles. He arose and prepared for the day. She stayed sleeping on her side, cuddled under the blankets.   Once downstairs, he started the kettle for tea and ventured to the doorstep to pick up the newspaper that leaned carelessly against the front door.  There it was: Freddie’s announcement of his illness.

John was surprised but not shocked.  The reality they had been living with for years was finally revealed in black and white.   And with it, there was no more denying, no hope that he would be cured and no thinking that maybe, just maybe, it wasn’t as bad as it really was.  Of course, they knew the truth from his deterioration and his rueful jokes, but so long as it wasn’t officially announced in print, they could still hope -- or deny the harsh reality. He folded up the paper and shoved it into the entry foyer shelf between boots and hats and scarves.

He carried on with the morning routine, preparing breakfast before church.  The kids started to amble down the steps and he corralled them around the kitchen table to eat, keeping he banter light, responding to them as needed, mustering great concentration to be in the moment.  Veronica joined them, holding the youngest’s hand cajoling them to finish up and dress for church, which they did.  Attired and groomed neatly, they gathered by the door without fussing or fighting, bantering or bossing, asks or antics, as though they anticipated the ominous afternoon that lay before them. After church, the kids scattered to the family room turning to regular Sunday pre-lunch activities: games, books and crafts.  John joined them eager to distract himself, as Veronica prepared lunch.

The drizzle started hitting the large window, laying wet tracks on the glass.  John turned on all the lights. He welcomed the bright bursts that contrasted the grey landscape and sat down.  Suddenly he heard  the unmistakable sound of tires on gravel.  He peered out the window and saw one, then two cars enter the wide driveway. The cars parted, peeling to opposite sides of the circular drive, and parked, forming the base of a heart.  The boys exited their cars, pulling their coats tightly.  They met and the tall one’s arm gently touched the other’s lower back, as they walked toward the house, their feet crunching.  

“John…” Veronica called, her voice shaking.  They all knew it would happen-some version of this-and now that it was here, it began to unfold in slow motion.

“I know.” John said, rising and walking out of the family room toward the entry foyer where she now stood. She extended her hand, brushing it down his arm as he grabbed a coat from a hook and put it on while opening the heavy wooden door.  

And, at that moment, John knew that once he walked out that door, his life would never be the same.   What lay ahead for them, he couldn’t say. How he’d deal with the avalanche of emotions, he didn’t know. How many memories would fade over time, he couldn’t imagine. Crossing the threshold to that uncertainty, into the dampness, he felt fullness rush to his chest. Emotions ricocheted within himself, the feelings kept at bay for so long.  He met the boys in the middle of the driveway.  Brian extended his long arm and pulled John in, his other arm now tight around Roger.  Before Brian spoke, John’s tears started to flow.  

“He’s gone, Deacy.” Brian’s wet eyes bore into John’s as he brought John and Roger close to him.  They huddled together in the rain, their own tears raining down collectively.  

“Do you, would you like to come in.” John asked quietly after a few moments, as they were standing in the rain, and his politeness overcame him.  

Roger broke away. “ I can’t.” his voice cracked. “I keep hearing Phoebe telling me on the phone. It’s too much.  I gotta go.” He slid his hand down Brian’s arm, letting it linger just a few seconds against Brian’s hand as they stared at each other.  He broke away and turned to hug John.  “See you at the funeral,’  he said as walked toward his car.

Brian rubbed John’s back. “Do you want to talk a bit?”

“I…I don’t know,” John said between tears.  “I gotta keep it together. For the kids. for Ronnie.”

“We’ll have time.  Here I wrote down the funeral information,” Brian took a neatly folded sheet of paper from his inner jacket pocket. “We’ll meet there and then go to lunch. Just the three of us.”

“Yeah.  It’s just the three of us, I suppose.  For now.” John said.  He took the paper.  Brian looked at him curiously, but remained silent as John hugged him, letting the tall man hold and soothe him.  

The funeral came and went and the week passed in a blur.  Roger and Brian did an interview and talked about Fred’s last days, the intrusive press, the stigma of AIDs and homosexuality, the Mercury Phoenix Trust and a future Memorial Concert. John couldn’t believe they could be so articulate and composed, holding it together. This was such a contrast to himself. He needed to use every ounce of energy to go through the motions, trying to hold the patchwork pieces of his life together as the threads loosened.   But not very well.  

Veronica tried to be patient but became increasingly annoyed with his detachment.  “I know you are hurting.  But, we are here.  We are living. We need you.  All of you. Even when you’re crying you’re beautiful too. The world is beating you down. I’m around for every mood.” (1) She said.

Nights were long and torturous.  Veronica got used to sleeping with John flipping around beside her.  Memories assaulted him, stirring up tears as he recounted days together that would never be recaptured – or repeated, lurching him into a state of sadness.

Finally, over a week later, exhaustion overcame him, and John fell into a fitful sleep.  A breeze circulated through the room and skimmed John, causing him to shiver just as he let himself slide into unconsciousness.  Was the window open? he wondered. His eyes flickered, and through them he saw shadows of branches dancing on the bedroom wall, lit by the moonlight. He was too tired to get up to investigate, so he pulled the blanket up around his neck and finally, finally, let his body slide into the rest it craved. 

Suddenly he heard that familiar voice, the voice that soothed, cajoled, joked, laughed, created, emoted, sassed, swore, bickered, slayed, agitated, mediated, cackled.  Sang. Loved.  

“Deacy,  Deacy, Darling….”

“Freddie??”  John sat up in bed as he glanced toward the wall, seeing Veronica cuddled sleeping.  He turned the other way, toward the window, and blinked as his mustached friend came into full view before him:  healthy, muscled and fit, dressed in tight white pants with a red sash belt, his white wife beater with the black lightning bold and the red jacket with the similar design.

“Freddie….you look …. like when we were in Japan.  We ALL wore white!!”

“Yes!  What a wonderful set of shows we had there – over the years, really!” Freddie said wistfully.

Deacy felt a jolt of energy rush through him.  He was uplifted more than he had been in weeks. The chill in the room had vanished.  “You’re healthy, Freddie.  Tell me, please! It was it all a nightmare - and I’ve woken up and you’re still here!!!??”

“No, dear, I’m still dead, sorry to say.” Freddie said in his direct way.

“How? what, why, are you here??” Deacy asked, confused.

“I know you’ve been out of sorts and well, I want to help you move on. You know I love you and it pains me to see you suffering.” Fred replied.

“Freddie, I can’t – I just…I don’t know what my life will be like now. And I don’t know if I can play again. Without you.  Inside my heart is breaking (2)…”  It felt good for John to express his pent-up feelings.

Freddie nodded.  “I understand.  But - You have to join the living-your beautiful wife and children. They need you and they want you. They love you so.   You don’t have to decide about playing, but if you decide you don’t want to – that’s ok.  But you better bloody well play at my Memorial concert!” he laughed slyly.  

“I will, Fred…I’ll play for you.  Of course.  When you died, a light went out, the same light that had guided me, brightened me and calmed me.  You saw the best there was in me.  Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach. You stood by me and I stood tall.  I had your love I had it all. I’m grateful for each day you gave me.  Maybe I don’t know that much, but I know this much is true. I was blessed because I was loved by you. (3) I keep remembering our times together-the images just come to me. Over 20 years of images.  they’re supposed to be soothing but they just hurt.”

“I know.  They won’t always hurt, Dear.  As they say, ‘don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.’” He chuckled.  “See them as celebrations of our lives together.”

“I just can’t believe you’re gone.” Deacy felt his eyes brimming with tears, as Freddie looked at him with love and empathy.

Fred nodded.  “You all knew, but the finality of it.  But our music lives-and me, in it. And there are all those videos. Miami has them.  Who knows one day, maybe they’ll be available to the masses!” (If he only knew) Freddie laughed, stretching his arms in a grand, graceful gesture, as only he could do. “Hear my song. Still think of me the way you’ve come to think of me…Just close your pretty eyes and you can be with me. (4)  I will be there with you on your journey.  When you need me, I’ll wait here in the silence until you come and sit awhile with me.” (5)

Fred continued:  “Deacy-You have to choose to live.  And love.  You have so much love to share-you always have.  You have to redirect your love for me elsewhere-to your family.  And create new love, perhaps,” Fred winked.  

Deacy looked down with a shy smile.

Fred continued, “Well, I’m sure you and Veronica can work on that!  And the band-well, Brian and Roger will have their ideas.   You need to do what’s best for you.  Whatever that is, It will be ok.  You don’t have to figure that out now.  Any of it.  Just be present – in this present.  I know it’s not the one you chose.  Hell, I assure you it’s not what I chose either.  But unlike me, you have a chance for new chapters-with people who love you.”

Deacy took a deep breath, feeling the words and presence of his friend permeate him and a calmness envelop him.  You’re safe in my heart, and my heart will go on. (6)

Suddenly, Deacy felt chilly. He put his feet on the floor and leaned forward.  “Freddie, stay awhile!!  Let me grab my bass and we can jam a bit  - Anything, whatever you like.”

“I can’t, Deacy.  Now the wind has changed direction and I’ll have to leave.” (7)

“Please Fred,” Deacy said as he lurched to touch Freddie, who backed up toward the window and started to fade.  But before he did, he said, “I love you, Deacy.  Remember our chat.  I’ll always be with you-keeping an eye on you, watching your lovely family, laughing at your jokes. Focus on the future and the love in your life.  Don’t let your life pass you by.  Weep not for the memories.” (8)

“Freddie, no, no, come back…please, just for a little while longer.”  John said frantically and started to cry.  Veronica rolled over to John, easing him down on the bed and then swinging her leg and arm onto him, running her fingers through his hair.

“It’s ok, Darling. Did you have a dream about Fred?”

“It wasn’t a dream, Ronnie. He was here.  I was awake. We were talking.  He looked so good.   He….”

“What did he say?” She asked, not debating the interaction he claimed.

“He reminded me of the love I have-with you and the kids. That’s where I belong.  I must think of a new life, and I mustn’t give in. (9) And, he said we should …create new love….” He smiled at her.

“Oh, John, what a lovely thought.  Let’s pick that up tomorrow.”  She giggled. “Now, you need to sleep. Lie back, baby, let me kiss you to sleep.” And she planted soft kisses on his neck and cheek and rested her head on his chest.   As John drifted off, their video of The Show Must Go On came to him.  The images, the music and lyrics lulled him to sleep.  I guess I’m learning. I must be warmer now. I’ll soon be turning, round the corner now.  Outside the dawn is breaking but inside in the dark, I’m aching to be free….Fairy tales of yesterday grow but never die,  I can fly, my friends. (10)

In a few minutes, Veronica heard his steady breathing of sleep.

She closed her eyes and whispered, “Thank you, dear, sweet Freddie,” before she joined John in a welcoming, deep slumber.

SONG NOTES

All of Me, John Legend (People’s Sexiest Man Alive, 2019!!)

The Show Must Go On, Queen

Because You Loved Me, Celine Dion

Teo Torriatte, Queen        

You Raise Me Up, Josh Groban      

My Heart Will Go On, Celine Dion (wow, two songs by CD, Ay, Caramba!)

Border Song, Elton John

I Will Remember You, Sarah McLachlan

Memory, From the Musical “Cats”        

The Show Must Go On, Queen                

[bloodbvg]

[ JORDAN FISHER , CIS MALE , HE/HIM ] hey, isn’t that MATT DONOVAN ? you know, that 21 / 21 year old HUMAN. i’ve heard they are a WHITMORE STUDENT, which means they must know what’s going on in this town, right ? anyways, i’ve heard they’re looking to MAKE A BETTER LIFE FOR HIMSELF in beacon falls. don’t tell anyone, but they’re UNAWARE of the supernatural. you can’t miss them — they’ll remind you of DENIM JACKETS AND OLD, BEAT-UP BOOTS; SAYING A PRAYER EVERY TIME YOU START UP YOUR OLD TRUCK; DARK CIRCLES UNDER YOUR EYES FROM SLEEPLESS NIGHTS; ALWAYS SMELLING A LITTLE BIT LIKE COFFEE; ATLAS, WEARING A PROUD SMILE IN SPITE OF HIS TREMBLING ARMS.

i have no idea how this is gonna turn out, i’m just letting you know ahead of time.  thank you in advance. xo.

you can check out his stats page here and his pinterest here.  let’s get into it!

BACKSTORY.

matthew donovan:  son of the mess of mystic falls, kelly donovan, and an absentee deadbeat father later revealed to be peter maxwell.  younger brother to resident wild child vicki donovan. 

the tl;dr:  kelly provided for her kids where she could, although as the years went on, she acted less like a mother and more like a friend, when her children still needed a mother in their lives.  her wild streak led to matt learning how to be self-sufficient at an early age. 

despite being younger, matt often had to play big brother to vicki, reprimanding her about going to school and doing her homework.  he made them both dinner and took care of her when she was hungover after a night of partying

kelly’s irresponsibility meant money was never a sure thing, so as soon as he was old enough he got a job at the grill, despite the owner laughing in his face when she realized he was “kelly’s kid.”  by this point, matt knew the stigma the donovan name carried, and — just like when his teachers recalled having vicki in class and he had to assure them he was not the same student she was — he assured her that he wasn’t his mother. 

so matt worked twice as hard just to prove that he was different from the rest.  he could be trusted, he could handle responsibility, he wouldn’t show up late or hungover or both.  he saved up enough money to buy a run-down, beaten-up old junker of a truck, brought home food from work some nights to make sure there was dinner on the table.  when the tips were good he’d give some to kelly to make sure bills got paid. 

it wasn’t a glamorous life but it was all matt knew.  he managed good grades all through high school, a successful run on the football team, and even nabbed the oh-so-important sash and crown of prom king.  

his fears of having to play football in college in order to afford it were assuaged after one of his teachers helped him score some clutch scholarships, and off to whitmore college he went.  his major?  social work. 😌

fast forward to the present.  entering his junior year of college, not too much has changed.  he still lives at home, does what he can to help out vicki, and kelly when she decides she wants to live with them and not with whatever boyfriend she’s seeing.  it’s tense, but matt keeps shoving it down instead of dealing with the emotional toll it’s taking.  joined a frat out of boredom and curiosity, although he’s largely remained the same golden boy everyone knows and loves and takes advantage of!

remember when i said tl;dr?  lol

SEASON ONE.

jesus christ, here we are.  i don’t know what to tell you.  in canon, matt doesn’t do much when it’s not directly related to a girl he’s dating, or tyler.  so this is gonna be pretty vague until i’ve plotted stuff out.  woo!

blood bag, punching bag.  ruin his life, but in a fun and sexy way.  help him make bad choices after his breakup with elena.  bi awakening!  

idk in the season the only thing that happens to him is vicki dying and him kicking his mom out.  he starts dating caroline but i’m not married to any ship.  the boy is an open book!  fuck him up!

SEASON TWO.

once again . . . not a lot going on!  in the show this is when he finds out about the supernatural via caroline and tyler but honestly it could unfold however it unfolds!  continuing to be a punching bag and a blood bag for the supernaturals in the process.

literally someone please just give this boy something to be happy about.

SEASON THREE.

y’all know the drill at this point.   do i even need to bother listing big canon points?  no but i’m going to

drowns himself and bonnie brings him back so he can communicate with ghosts via bonnie........ wack but his and jer’s medium plots were kinda fun so catch me keeping this somehow

otherwise just takes on a bigger role in helping the gang now that he knows about the supernatural.  starts to kinda be interested in rebekah?  idk

this was an entire mess but.  it is what it is.  i tried to include as little about other characters as possible to leave it open for plotting, which is why this is kind of an open-ended disaster.  oh well!  we tried.

i didn’t even ATTEMPT to include the teen wolf gang into this now but just know that matt’s always gonna be there for his friends and help them figure shit out, even when he doesn’t know what’s going on.  will he probably resent the supernatural later in life?  maybe but i’m not julie plec so i’m not gonna have him like turn against his friends, fuck that.

and finally, matt’s not gonna be a cop, he says acab and he means it 😌  that’s why he’s gonna be a social worker baby!!!!

[noluot3blog]

My experience of practical prep and first week of practical.

Each day I attempt to read articles about the impact that occupational therapy has in the lives of our clients. This inspires me and makes me be proud to be part of an occupation that has such impact. The topic discussed during practical preparation regarding “Mental health locally and globally”.

Millions suffer with mental health throughout their lives and while OT has been part of treatment plans for many years, there is much research that has been done on the subject. A recent study out by the American Journal of Public Health demonstrated that efforts to improve population mental health, should prioritize inclusion , integration , and competences for the reduction of cultural barriers to recognition , response and recovery. This study also shares views of how mental illness appears to be coupled with a stubborn persistence of negative opinions, attitudes and intentions .As recent path-breaking research has documented , cultures of stigma. Stigma has been linked with problems relating to knowledge (ignorance) and attitudes(prejudice) while discrimination has largely been related to behaviour. Different types of stigma exist ranging from public (externalized or experienced stigma) to self-stigma(internalized stigma) .

People with mental illness have to deal with their illness and in addition have to deal with social , psychological and economic consequences of psychiatric stigma which can exacerbate low self-esteem , marginalization form society , social isolation , social anxiety, poor social skills . difficulties in securing employment, housing difficulties as well as poor social support , all of which are important for integration into society.

Results from the South African Stress and Health (SASH) survey show that a 75% treatment gap of common mental disorders nationally, in addition to other factors responsible for this treatment gap , stigmatization of people with mental illness is mostly responsible for this gap.

Melvyn Freeman , the Department of Health’s Chief director of non-communicable diseases stated that “the direct cost of untreated mental disorders outweighed the direct treatment cost by a factor of almost six”. By reducing the stigma in the society this will ensure that more patients receive adequate treatment care and in the long term this would decrease the indirect costs associated with chronic health care as a result of deterioration.

The practical placement site which I am placed for approximately 10 weeks ,is a long –psychiatric long-term established , with a peaceful feel. The clients at the facility are extremely friendly and keen to participate in OT. Although initially walking to the venue , I was nervous …by the end of the day I left feeling the exact opposite. As my supervisor ensured that as a group we eased into the day with confidence and gave feedback on the sessions that we had done with our clients.

This experience of the practical preparation leading to the first day of practical, has helped grow as an OT in three important ways.

Advocate for my clients: As OTs we need to ensure our clients wellbeing , and to assist them in removing barriers that may prevent them from reaching their full potential.

Advocate for my profession: To be proud and make it known that OTs play a pivotal role in mental health , that our intervention can make an impact in an individuals life.

Read …read : Reading with understanding and reading to further my knowledge , 

 Reference:

·     Pescosolido,B.A,(2012)The “Backbone” of Stigma: Identifying the global core of public prejudice associated with mental illness, American journal of public health,Indiana University,Bloomington

 ·   Scheinholtz,M(2010).Occupational Therapy in mental health: Considerations of advanced practice,Bethesda ,MD:AOTA.Press

[jfoleydrip-blog]

Bosozoku is a Japanese motorcycle gang with its origins starting in a post WW2 broken down Japan, which was a time in which many veterans struggled to embrace the post-war realities like the decimated landscape and the fragile democracy. The car industry was especially crippled. After WW2 a group of motorcycle fanatics — comprised both of returning soldiers looking for a spark of adrenaline, and disgruntled youth influenced by foreign films like ’Rebel without a Cause' emerged in Japan. Initially known as the “kaminari zoku” or “thunder tribe,” the name “bosozoku” which translates “violent speed tribe” was given to these bikers in the 1970s, when riots broke out and biker culture became more criminal in nature. The Bosozoku Uniform was a staple of all members of the gang and each had their own individual messages. At their peak the Bosozoku became known for their reckless driving, modified exhausts systems and their extreme violence. This was distinguished through their erratic driving, the noise they made and them riding around Japan wielding wooden swords, baseball bats, metal pipes, and the occasional Molotov cocktail which was used against both foreigners and the police. However the main reason I am looking into this gang in particularly is their visual presence which is presented through their uniform. Bosozoku’s unmistakable auditory presence is matched with an unmistakable visual presence. The notorious Bosozoku uniform known as the tokko-fuku which translates too “special attack clothing” consists of an elaborately embroidered jumpsuit, inspired by manual laborers and World War II kamikaze pilots. These were customized with personalized slogans, gang logos, kanji, and imperial flags, presenting their membership and their loyalty to the gang. Each member stylized their uniform with a lot of different accessories like, round sunglasses, surgical masks, dangling earrings, and tasuki sashes. The uniforms themselves carry a stigma that even the tokku fuku embroiders are accused of inciting juvenile delinquency. In 2002 the Osaka family court authorized a request by the police to confiscate tokko-fuku worn by local bikers, claiming that the uniforms inspired “fear and reckless driving.” These uniforms are partnered with flamboyantly customized bikes as exhibitionism is a quintessential part of their culture. Next I want to investigate how the Bosozoku has had an impact on the modern fashion industry.

[lostinyourears]

Arena Mexico Super Friday Report! 03/22/2019

Star Jr. & Stigma vs. Grako & El Coyote

Who’s who?

Star Jr. in blue/red & Stigma in red/black.

Grako in green/gold and Coyote in brown.

How’s the match?

Very good, I thought about just giving this a good rating, but decided to bump it up a rating. The 1st round was filled with them trying new stuff, but only half of it landed well or was filmed well. So a decent amount looked awkward, but both 2nd and 3rd falls went off without a hitch. Hope all 4 of these guys climb up the cards in following months years, see lots of potential in them. 

Kaho Kobashi, Marcela & Mystique vs. Dalys, Amapola & Reyna Isis

Who’s who?

Kaho in 2 piece, Marcla in black, Mystique in black with mask.

Dalys in 2 piece/muscular, Amapola in black with pin sash & Reyna in blue.

How’s the match?

Very good, one of the better luchadora matches of recent memory. Nice to see Kaho as she is here on tour and seemed to just go awol for a week or two. This match is shorter than it needed to be, but seemingly spells out a path for Kaho to get a singles match, which should be fun. Marcela/Dalys prove to be two of the best on the luchadora roster as they are billed. The shortness of this match meant most of the fat was cut, which is a plus in my book. 

Stuka Jr., Flyer & Audaz vs. Polvora, Vangellys & Kawato San

Who’s who?

Stuka in blue/black, Flyer in blue & Audaz in gold.

Polvora with a flame mask, Vangellys in red and Kawato in blue/silver. 

How’s the match?

Good, which to remind people means par for my rating scale. This is about what you’d expect from these names. I love the tecnico team, but the rudo side is the definition of hodge podge and it shows throughout the match. If you are a Kawato San fan and want to see more of him, the Tuesday match he had was a better showing for him. This is my low point for this show, but still has a good Audaz moment or two. 

Barbaro Cavernario vs. Forastero

Who’s who?

Barbaro maskless, Forastero masked in all white. 

How’s the match?

Great, honestly this match did more for me than the Tuesday night championship match between Lee/Mephisto which felt like a rehash of their match from the previous year. It helps that these two have met less one on one and that this had a surprising outcome and set up another match with more rounds and more stakes for next Friday. Money was thrown into the ring here and the promise of a longer match seems like it’ll deliver. 

Angel de Oro, Niebla Roja & Titán vs. Mr. Niebla,  Terrible & Bestia del Ring

Who’s who?

Oro in gold, Roja in red and Titan in silver mask.

Bestia/Terrible bald with Bestia in western boots and Niebla with an afro.

How’s the match?

Very good, but I’m not sure where else this feud can go. Roja/Terrible have been named as the 1st team of Incredible Pairs. I hope they don’t win, but that might be how CMLL saves this feud and gets both men over. Seems like Terrible needs time off as his brace/medical taped arm doesn’t seem 100% and banking on him to do great in another big match seems like it could be a mistake given how H2L ended. Worst case scenario the finals of that tournament would be Oro/Bestia vs. Roja/Terrible, which we should all pray doesn’t happen. H2L wasn’t the blow off CMLL wanted though, so it seems they will find some other way to cap off this feud. 

Caristico, Volador Jr. & Diamante Azul vs. Ultimo Guerrero, Euforia & Gran Guerrero

Who’s who?

Caristico in white, Volador Jr. in red/white and Azul in blue.

Ultimo maskless, Gran in an Ultimo mask design and Euforia masked an the biggest of the trio. 

How’s the match?

Good, but CMLL should have shaken the tecnico team up more. This is just the title challenge we got last week except Azul in place for Dragon Lee and for that reason it felt very similar and not all that exciting since Guerreros have been battling teams consisting of Volador Jr./Caristico nearly every week for a month now. Was a poor decision to go to this well again, give some other tencios a chance. Think this match and the previous one would have been helped plenty by swapping the tecnico teams. 

Highlights : (Cannot upload gifs to imgur at the place I’m house sitting has weak wifi, will put album here in about a week or so)

[kv-central]

Black Ridge

“Ariesaela, get ready!”

Groaning as she turned over in bed, the young Daemon shoved her face in her pillow. It was late morning, she could tell by how warm it was from the gentle breeze that flew in through the open window and hit her wings. Curling up under her blanket more, she felt herself falling back to sleep when she heard her name being yelled again.

“Ariesaela, get dressed now! Or else we aren’t going!”

Snapping her eyes open, Ariesaela jumped out of bed. There was no way she was going to miss her chance to leave, she had waited long enough that she was in no way going to give up. Moving quickly to her wardrobe, she opened the doors and looked at her different clothes to decide on what to wear. Tilting her head, she grabbed her white dress with light blue lace and specks of pale green. It was the colors of her Country and she felt a bit patriotic since she wouldn’t be back for a while.

“I’m getting ready, I’ll be down in a bit!”

There’s no reply, but she doesn’t expect one.

Once the dress was on, she looked in the mirror and struck a pose. There was no way she’d ever be allowed out of her house in such little clothing, let alone be alive if anyone saw her so indecent, so these stolen moments where she could admire the way her arms and waist looked without the robes was so-mething she cherished. Sighing, she quickly grabbed a plain white robe with the same light blue trimmings at the bottom, the end of the sleeves and the collar.

To match with her dress, she grabbed pale green robe to wear on her outer layer and felt warmer. Finding her lucky black and white sash, she wraps it around her waist to keep both of her robes in place. Once she is done, she brushes her long dark green hair before doing three small braids on her right side and two on her left. Taking her right side of her hair and top half of her left side, she ties it up and makes her way to her door.

Opening it, she finds the wash cloth and basin already outside, like it always is every morning. Grabbing it, she washes her face and makes her way back into her room to look herself in her mirror once more.

Her hair is put together nicely, and with a simple spell, it’ll stay in place during the flight. Her robes are put on properly, her own little flair added by her lucky sash. Of course, she makes sure her robes hide any curves of her body, not wanting to be seen acting indecent. Ariesaela studies herself, enjoying how her dark skin makes the colors of her robes and dress pop. Then she stops on her eyes, as she always does.

Her eyes have always been a mystery to her, since she was young. She hated looking at herself in the mirror or pictures, because her eyes were different form everyone elses. Her eyes were all the colors of the rainbow, every hue displayed in a swirl. She didn’t have pupils, which was what scared her the most as a child. It didn’t help that her Mom had always seemed so distressed whenever Ariesaela forgot to wear her contacts, a simple black that covered where everyone’s eye colors would normally be. The edges of her eyes were exposed but her Mom had managed to make a spell that would make them white, even though the spell hurt and she had to wear glasses because they made her vision blurry. She always hated her eyes as a child.

But Ariesaela didn’t hate her eyes anymore. Instead she was curious on why she had eyes so different and what that meant. Her Mom had been scared of her eyes, seeming to know the meaning of them from an early age if the fact that as far back that she could remember, she had always worn the black contacts. And it was the only reasonable thing she could think of as to why she had no baby pictures.

“Food is ready!” Her Mom’s voice carried up the stairs, bringing Ariesaela out of her thoughts.

Quickly putting her contact in and smiling at how well put together she was for the day, she stretched her wings out and watched her reflection. Her wings were still clean from the night before, and the not even the wind from the night before had dirtied them in any way.

Spinning on her heel, she made her way down the stairs and into the kitchen where her Mom sat at the table. Nodding at each other, they started to eat.

Not much words were spoken between the two, not that there were much ever spoken. Ariesaela always found it weird how her Mom always seemed to avoid talking but it was something she had long grown used too. It was just another weird thing in her life, her Mom barely spoke to her.

It never bothered her, but today was different. Today was special.

It was Ariesaela’s 15th birthday, which meant that she was allowed to officially leave the Country anytime now. However, like all who wish to leave the Country, she had to spend a year away before coming back. It made sense, since the Country of Vangra was one of the isolated Countries that had no ties to any Territories or Countries run by War Lords, Outlander Leaders, The Order, Network or Rebellion.

No, Vangra was a Country that had long since cut off ties to those organizations and instead only dealt and had relations to those that stayed away from those war torn lands. It was something Ariesaela was proud of, being from Vangra. The main population was daemons, though there were a few tengu, fae and mixed hybrids that resided in the small Country. Of course, everyone had their wings since it was impossible to get around without.

From what little Ariesaela knew of the other Countries, it was that they usually referred to Vangra and the surrounding isolated Countries as the ‘flying territories’. Not that she wanted to explore the rest of the world, it sounded much too harsh for anyone to survive with all the stories she had heard. But her curiosity always won her over, and she thought of maybe visiting the lands below. If she found someone who would go with her, of course.

It wasn’t that there was a law saying she couldn’t go to the surface, but there was a stigma that only troublemakers and heathens went there. She didn’t think she was either, but who knew what it was like in the other isolated Countries, maybe there was someone she would meet who would travel with her.

“Finish eating, we must see the Council soon.” Her Mom’s harsh voice pulled Ariesaela out of her thoughts as she finished eating.

After putting her dishes into the dirty bin, she made her way to the door and put on her black boots. They were warm and could withstand the cold, something that was highly valued when buying boots. Plus, they were meant to last for a long time, something she would need if she was going to be travelling with little to no money for a year. Throwing on a thick black coat, she took a step outside and felt the morning wind on her skin instantly.

Taking out her glasses from their case in her cloaks secure pocket, she put them on as she waited for her Mom.

Five minutes had passed and Ariesaela found herself stretching her wings out as she debated going inside to find her Mom. Tilting her head from side to side, she made her way to the door when her Mom walked out, eye narrowed.

“Come here.”

Ariesaela felt fear slowly creep up her spine from the way her Mom spoke, nervously closing the distance between the two. She stopped when she was am arms length away and closed her eyes after taking off her glasses, knowing what was coming. Quickly, her Mom places her thumbs onto her eye lids and spoke the spell that would make the edges of her eyes look normal. The quick pain that took over on her head was something she was used too, but the way it had sharply stung her head would be something she would never get used too.

“You know how to do this.”

Nodding at her Mom, Ariesaela put her glasses back on as they jumped up and flew over to the Council Building. There was one other teenager there, since it was rare for people to want to leave the Country to begin with. He was a fae, judging by his wings that looked more like a mix between a bird and an insect. He didn’t have a parent with him.

They stood, waiting for a few minutes until a tengu woman came out, her black hair was tied up and she wore light blue robes. She looked at both the fae boy and Ariesaela before waving for them to follow her into the Council building.

Ariesaela was about to take a step forward when her Mom grabbed a hold of her shoulder and looked her in the eyes. It was the first time in years, that Ariesaela saw her Mom’s eyes. They were a beautiful and glimmering green, dark like an emerald’s. Her Mom was beautiful, but she hid away from the world as if she was scared. She barely spoke, as if afraid that if she spoke too much, she’d attract attention. Ariesaela never understood why her Mom was so scared of everything, why she scared of her.

“Please, please. Don’t ever play with the water while you’re out there.” Her Mom’s voice broke, pleading with a desperate tone.

To hear her mom use that voice, as if on the verge of tears and terrified, who was Ariesaela to not agree? “Of course, I won’t. I promise.”

A look of relief mixed with an intense worry and concerned face washed over her Mom, and she had to get out of there. Pulling herself away from her Mom’s grasp, she turned and quickly followed where the Council woman had walked towards the building.

As she made it to the top of the steps, she glanced at the fae boy before looking back at her Mom, only to find that she had left already.

“You will be meeting a member of the Outer Court, to decide what we have to gain by allowing you to travel. It is just a procedure we have to follow, since we don’t have much willing citizens who will leave the Country.” The Council woman opened the door for both of the teenagers, waiting for them to walk in.

The fae boy stopped for a second, his long hair was in dreads, a few stripes of red that matched the color of his robes. He looked at the Council woman, his expression hidden from Ariesaela.

The Council woman narrowed her eyes. “You will need to be respectful to the Member you meet. It could be a life or death situation if you aren’t careful. The Outer Court does have the right to end any life they want, whether it be kids or adults.”

Ariesaela nodded and walked past the fae boy and Council woman. It was known knowledge, and if the Far boy didn’t know this by now, she doubted he would be able to even leave. She took a few steps inside and looked around the large lobby. It was mostly empty, having been just opened for the day. A moment later, both the Council woman and the fae boy walked in.

They both followed the Council, woman as she took them through a series of doors, stairs and hallways. There was old magic on the building, as all of the Government buildings, that prevented the path from being the same to and from each and every room. When they finally reached the door of the meeting room, the Council woman turned around, making eye contact and maintaining it for a second with both teens. Seeming satisfied with what she saw, she nodded and opened the door.

“Hello, I bring the ones who wish to travel beyond our borders.” The Council woman had bowed respectfully, both Ariesaela and the fae boy following suit before sitting down in the chairs across the table from the Member of the Outer Court.

“Yes, of course.” The Man’s voice was deep and old. He was a daemon, his hair black with a blue sheen that was tied up in the back. His smile was all teeth, not reaching his eyes. “I suspect you have all the information, Council woman, Dar?”

Nodding, she passed him two scrolls that had appeared out of nowhere. Taking the scrolls, he opened one and read it over quietly before grabbing the other and doing the same. When he was done he looked up before speaking again.

“Jason, citizen and property of Vangra, you want to travel.” The fae boy- Jason, kept a steady gaze as he nodded and let his head hang down.

“You have many skills that are useful, and you wish to travel to improve and become a better citizen of Vangra, yes?” Another nod. “You are approved to travel.”

Jason sighed softly, relaxing into his chair.

“Ariesaela, citizen of Vangra, you wish to travel as well, yes?” Nodding, she made eye contact with the Court Member. His eyes were pure black, a sign of being a stronger percentage of daemon. “Your intelligence is great, especially the learning aspect. I suspect you wish to travel to bring back knowledge?”

“Y-“ Remembering her position, Ariesaela froze before stiffly nodding. The panic of having blown it for speaking out of turn bubbled up in the back of her mind.

Instead the man laughed, shaking his head. “Kids are so nervous these days.” Looking at Ariesaela, he nodded. “You are approved. Now, we need you both to draw blood to bind this contract.”

Chancing a glance over to Jason, they had made eye contact. Vibrant ruby red eyes met hers and it seemed both were feeling the same thing. Apprehension.

“Sir, we no longer do binding contracts. That was taken out and decided by the Royal Court last year.” The Council woman spoke up, averting attention to her. “We just need to sign the scrolls.”

The man paused, looking down at the scrolls before nodding. Grabbing a pen, he signed both and slid them over to the Council woman where she signed quickly and rolled the scrolls up. They disappeared in an instant.

“I apologize, we haven’t had anyone want to leave the country in a few years. You two are the first from this city to want to leave.” He had a flustered look on his face. “No matter, you two have 24 hours to leave and from tomorrow, this time, until exactly 1 year, you must be out of the country.”

Smiling, Ariesaela nodded. The Council woman had showed them the way out, through a different path of twists and turns before making it to the front lobby once again. She looked at both before sighing.

“You both must be brave out there, and stay away from the surface unless absolutely necessary. I wish you both good luck.” And with that, she turned and disappeared down a corridor.

Ariesaela felt excitement burst inside her, grinning as she opened the door and took a step out. Jason had followed after her, glancing before shrugging and going the opposite way.

oOo

The first day Ariesaela left had been uneventful. Her Mom had given her a map of all the isolated Countries, including the two safe ones on the surface and a small compass. After that, she had taken off, deciding to fly to Neong. It was the closest country to Vangra and was widely populated with Tengu.

Neong was very similar to Vangra in regard to their cultures, traditions and laws. There were differences but they weren’t too bad considering that any and all citizens were allowed to travel freely, unless if they went to the surface. Then they were banished from the country.

Ariesaela was a bit disappointed that she wouldn’t be able to make it to Neong in a day, instead having to fly for at least two days unless if she went full speed which would take her at least 17 hours. Travelling at top speed would be a physical strain that she wasn’t prepared for, and it meant no breaks or sleep.

Plus, it meant she wouldn’t have the chance to stop at one of the countries on the surface. Which was where she was currently landing after a full day of flying. From here she had maybe another day of flying before making it to Neong.

Ariesaela dropped down on the outskirts of a bright cityscape. It was so different from her home Vangra’s cities already, bring brightly lit up. Plus the air was so much warmer down on the surface, her skin already warm from the workout that her day of flying had been. Luckily for her, she had been prepared for the it being warm, since Neong was a lot warmer than Vangra because it wasn’t as high up in the air.

She turned around, after stretching her wings so they wouldn’t be sore the next day. Up in the distance, her country wasn’t visible, only a speck of dust.

Excitement ran through her veins as she turned and made her way to the big road she landed by. She was going to enter her first place outside of her home and she could barely contain her nerves as she practically ran to the city.

oOo

One of the first things Ariesaela had noticed was the lack of clothing on people. Everyone here had been so loosely dressed and barely anyone wore robes. If they did, it was worn sloppily or as a jacket, rather than proper clothing.

The next thing was that the buildings were a lot taller than she had imagined from the outskirts of the city. Each building was tall, and the deeper into the city she made it, the taller and wider each building got. She also noticed that not much people would talk to her unless if they wanted to sell something.

But the thing that amazed Ariesaela the most, was that there was so many other races that she had never seen besides in scrolls and books before. She kept finding herself stopping and staring at different people, watching each person of a different race that she had never met before in her life.

“Hey, you’re from Vangra, right?”

Ariesaela turned around at the question, and made eye contact with a boy who seemed to be around her age, if not older. “Oh, yeah. Is it obvious?” She could feel the nervousness in her voice and hated it.

The boy had a soft smile, his dark skin somehow seemed to glow in the bright neon city lights. His eyes were weird though, left eye a warm brown and the other a murky green color with a faint, jagged scar on the outer edge of it. He also had dark brown birds wings, signifying that he was indeed a tengu.

His hair was longer than Ariesaela’s herself, all tied neatly into a high pony tail. He wore something similar to robes, colors of red, white and black.

Neong’s national colors and traditional clothing.

“Sorry, did I startle you?” The boy asked, shaking his head apologetically and offering a hand. “My name is Leandro.”

Shaking her head, Ariesaela smiled nervously in return. “No- it’s okay. My name is Ariesaela. How-“

Grinning in response, Leandro bowed slightly, pulling back his hand. “Then I was correct. Would you like to come with me? I am also travelling out of my country.”

Ariesaela knew she should have been feeling scared, or threatened even. But she did not feel any of those, instead she felt welcomed and was able to see that Leandro was as nervous as her, if not more. So she nodded slowly and followed after him as he beamed at her and led her further into the city.

oOo

“So you probably don’t know what Territory or city we’re in, huh?” Leandro started talking as they walked slowly down what looked to be a bustling area.

“No..” Ariesaela tentatively replied. She watched how Leandro seemed to weave in and out of the streets fluidly, making it more noticeable that she was obviously not used to such chaotic nightlife.

Leandro turned his head and nodded, seeming to slow down as he noticed that she had begun trailing further behind him. “Well, I didn’t know this place very well myself, when I first came here.” He chuckled quietly, shaking his head. “Which wasn’t all that long ago, either.” He shrugged, slowing down more so he was walking alongside Ariesaela.

Tilting her head, she found the courage to ask the question that had been on her mind since she had first seen him. “How are you allowed to come to the surface when your countries laws say that you’ll be banished for coming to the surface?”

Leandro sighed and stopped, Ariesaela stopping with him. He looked down and then up in the air before looking and making eye contact with Ariesaela. “Fly up, this conversation needs to be private.” He didn’t wait for an answer, instead flying up in the air, Ariesaela following after a moment.

When they were up so high that the city was just a spark beneath them, Leandro spoke. “I am a servant and royal at the same time.” Ariesaela noticed the bitter smile on his face. “I have special privileges as both.” He shrugged. “Oh, and you can call me Leo.”

“Why are you telling me this? You just met me?” Ariesaela felt more confused than her voice let on. It didn’t make sense, to be so nice to someone he had just met and to be telling her everything like this.

Leo laughed, summoning a long sword in his hand with magic. Ariesaela could feel her eyes widen, this was the first time she had seen magic used in a way without the purpose of healing. Fear coursed its way through her body, in a way she had never felt before. She was scared for her life.

“Because I could kill you if I wanted. I’ve killed before and without remorse as well.” Leo’s voice was dark, his face turning dangerous as he spoke but a moment later both the weapon was gone and a bright smile replaced his previous look. “I also know a seer, who had foreseen our interaction.”

The fear she felt was still present, and she looked at Leo warily. He didn’t seem to be showing any signs of attacking, unconsciously moving away from him. “And what did they say? About our interaction?”

Leo chuckled, letting himself slowly flutter to the surface again. “He said, ‘Meeting this girl is vital’ and that I should be friends with you.” He looked up at Ariesaela, a gentle smile on his face from where he was below her. “And that you shouldn’t be left alone to travel. Not yet, anyways.”

Ariesaela let herself drop down slowly. It wasn’t that she trusted Leo, not in the slightest after that show of murderous aura. But seers were people who were to be trusted, as they have never given wrong predictions and have always been held in high regards in her society.

“Why such a scary show of strength, then?”

Leo shook his head, looking down as the city came into clearer view. “Sorry, that’s my own fault. I’m apprehensive around new people- regardless of what truths I’ve been told to follow.” Leo shrugged, dropping at a quicker pace, reaching the tops of the tall buildings.

Ariesaela nodded, though Leo couldn’t see. Today was weird, no one really talked to her much at home. She had always been the weird kid, wanting to leave the country and travel. Plus, her eyes made it difficult- not much people wore glasses unless if there was a problem that couldn’t be fixed with technology or magic. “Many people say that a seers words are gospel.”

They slowed down as the ground below came into view, and that’s when Ariesaela noticed Leo’s wings. From behind, and with more light from the city, she could make out a patch of feathers that were missing. It wasn’t noticeable before, since flying up meant that his wings were closed. But here, open and spread out to slowly land, she could spot it out visibly.

Leo shrugged, landing softly and looking around. “Most people haven’t grown up around a seer foretelling them every little thing. They aren’t always true, sometimes their knowledge comes in blurry, which means that the future is unclear.”

Ariesaela landed beside him and followed as he nodded his head towards a side street. “Not many people are gifted the chance to meet a seer in their beginning years.”

Leo laughed. “Beginning years. Wow, I forgot how unrelated to the rest of the world the isolated and flying countries are.”

“What do you mean?”

“Pfft- Okay. Just follow me, we’re going to this place that I have been able to hold down for a while. I’ll explain more when we arrive. Just wait until then, alright?” Leo looked at Ariesaela, a bewildered expression on his face.

Before she could open her mouth, Leo had started weaving in and out of street and pedestrians. Ariesaela had no choice but to follow.

oOo

Ariesaela sat down in front of a table. They were in what looked like to be an abandoned building, the inside resembling a bar or some sort drink establishment. There were many tables and chair littered around the edges of the room, but only two tables were set up and around 10 chairs scattered closely around each table.

The building was something Ariesaela was more used too, it was only three stories high, though it was still by a busy part of the city. Leo had told her to sit as he took off to the upper levels. She was still wary about the boy, since he talked as if he was much older and there was something terribly dangerous about him. He was also very knowledgeable, if their short conversation was anything to go by.

She had almost forgotten about the fact that she wasn’t supposed to be in these countries, much less a huge city like the one she was currently in. Ariesaela blinked, shrugging her pack off her back and opening it to grab a scroll. It was an older one, when all the isolated countries were on land and before the Great War.

The map was old, many of the land had shifted since and because of the Great War. Looking further in, there was the notes she had taken while she learned of the world when she was in school.

The Great War was carried out for 300 long years, dividing the world more than it ever had been before. Magic and technology mixed in amazing and often, deadly ways. Many cultures and traditions were lost, instead people coming together and mixing theirs until we have the traditions and cultures we respect and follow today.

Ariesaela sighed, rolling the scroll back up and putting it back, grabbing out her notebook that had a much more updated map of the world on it. But now, looking at it, the map must have been old. The city that she was in was drawn to be much more smaller. The technology, not as developed as it was.

She was in an area she shouldn’t have been in, a city and country she couldn‘t tell anyone she had been too. Feeling dismay at the sudden realization of having to make up a lie of where she had been when asked later, she shut the notebook harshly and looked up at the ceiling.

Ariesaela sat like that for a while, before she heard Leo make his way down the stairs, turning her head towards the noise. He was talking to himself, or on a call. She wasn’t sure.

“No- I will take care of that, don’t worry. We won’t be here long-“ Leo stopped on the steps. He sounded annoyed. “I know what will happen, just trust me, okay?” There was a pause before Leo started down the steps again. “Okay, I will. Bye.”

By the time he had made it to the tables, Ariesaela had put her notebook and pack away. Leo raised his eyebrows, looking to be at a loss for words before sitting down. He leant forward on his right elbow and held his face with his right hand. He looked at the middle of the table, the air in the room quickly turning uncomfortable.

Ariesaela felt weird, not wanting to look at Leo and at literally anything else in the room. It was as if he didn’t know why either of them were there, or what they were doing. Finally, he broke the silence as Ariesaela was debating on leaving or staying.

“Your future doesn’t really tie into mine, not for a long time.”

Ariesaela let her eyes travel, slowly, back to Leo.

“But by that time, you will have forgotten about me, which, hey. It’s fine.” Leo let out a puff of air, a silent laugh. “Right now, I am here to meet with another seer, who will help assist you. This is not the seer I know, this is another one. She also assists me, but that’s all I know.” Leo shrugged. “You should wait to go to Neong until your last month.” Leo suddenly looked up, brown and green eyes meeting Ariesaela’s. “I do not say this lightly, if you go before then, you will not meet anything good. Your path is unclear, from what I’ve been told-“

Ariesaela shook her head, confused. “I thought seers can’t see anyone’s paths unless-“

Leo smiled fondly, which made Ariesaela pause. “The seer I know, he’s stronger than any other seer I’ve ever met.”

Ariesaela nodded as if she understood, when nothing Leo had said made sense. He was a complete and utter mystery, and she felt foolish because only now, was she realizing that she shouldn’t have followed him. She shouldn’t have answered back, since he could potentially tell her country where she had been and she’d be left with the humiliation and shame of being on the surface.

“You okay?” Leo asked, looking at her with one eyebrow raised at the question.

Ariesaela shook her head. “No, it’s nothing. Though I do have a question.” She took his silence as a sign to continue. “You said I am to meet a seer here. When? And why do I need to meet with one?”

Leo just shrugged as his gaze went down to the table. “My seer didn’t say. Just told me it was important you hear whatever they say.” Leo paused, before he continued with an uncertain voice. “I was told it was about dealing with water, but that’s all I know.”

Standing up so fast her chair clattered to the floor, Ariesaela stared at Leo. She didn’t care if her face gave away how terrified she felt. No one except her Mom had known about this.

Leo slowly leaned back in his chair, putting both hands up defensively. “Judging by your reaction, that must be important. But that is all my seer told me, he never said anything more or less about you.”

Ariesaela crouched down, holding her head with both hands. She could feel a headache starting to from the last few hours. Her eyes hurt form the contact and magic used on them. Her wings hurt from flying so much and so quickly. She was well aware of Leo watching her.

“Anyways, the seer should be here soon. I must advise you though, they can see through petty magic like you use.”

Ariesaela glared as she looked up at Leo, who seemed completely unbothered by everything. “Petty magic?”

Leo rolled his eyes. “Your eyes. My bloodline lets me see when magic is being used but does not allow me to see anything else.”

Ariesaela shook her head, crouched and curling in on herself from where she was. If only she hadn’t answered him, if she had only kept walking further into the city.

oOo

After a while, Leo had gotten up and disappeared to the upper levels. When he came back, he was wearing less clothing, looking more like the people that resided in the city. His arms were bare, a black dress shirt that was opened with a black shirt underneath. He wore black pants, and if Ariesaela didn’t know any better, she’d think he was a local.

Ariesaela watched as he cleaned up the place, never asking her to move or help, simply walking around her and avoiding her. Soon enough, the room had been cleaned and the tables were neatly tucked away in the darker corners of the room. The extra chairs were stacked, while only five tables each stood around the two tables.

The two tables now had clean table clothes on them with five glasses on each table. Leo had disappeared behind the counter in one corner of the room, grabbed a few bottles and placing them onto the countertop.

“Are you going to stand there all night?” He asked while pouring a pitcher of water, not once looking up or in the direction of Ariesaela.

Ariesaela opened her mouth to say something, but closed it promptly when she realized he had a point. Shrugging, she sat at one of the tables, absentmindedly playing with one of her braids. Leo continued to set up more bottles when someone knocked at the door. She could hear him pause whatever he was doing before calming walking to the door.

Ariesaela watched, an uneasy feeling settling in her abdomen as Leo opened the door. A few words of greetings were exchanged and she turned, to get a better view. Three people stood at the door, features shadowed over from the darkness outside. As they walked in, Ariesaela got a clear view.  

The first one she had noticed was a woman who was absolutely stunning. She had dark oak colored skin, her eyes a stunning fuchsia eyes and long eyelashes. She had full lips as well, and her dark hair was in dreads, delicately tied up on the side of her head, the tips an earth green which made it look like a flower. She wore a dress that had no straps and a few clothes fashionably wrapped around her waist. She was the shortest of the three.

Ariesaela had never seen anyone as beautiful as this woman in her life, and she could feel her face warm slightly. Shaking her head, she looked at the other two who had come in.

Another woman, who had short cloudy grey hair that covered one eye while her visible eye was a striking lavender purple. Her skin was a pale walnut wood brown and there were three stripes of cloudy grey fur on both sides of her face. They started under her eye and had ended at her jaw line, the mark and sign of a full blood werewolf. Her clothes were simple black, though there were a few belts that securely held small pouches to her legs, arms and waist. She was surprisingly the tallest of the three.

The last person was a man. His bright cerulean blue eyes that practically glowed against the blacks of his eyes and dark red markings under each eye. His skin was ashen grey, making the red markings stand out more. He had short black hair and two horns that sprouted out on each side of his head. The markings, horn designs and eyes gave away who he was- a member of the royal bloodline of ghouls. His clothes were almost the same as the werewolf woman, with the same pouches. He was slightly shorter than the werewolf woman.

To say Ariesaela was speechless was an understatement, as she had started the day out with leaving her country for the first time. If anything, it was more of a cultural shock than anything else. Her eyes kept travelling back to the first woman, who had followed Leo to the table. Behind her, the other two followed, which meant she was the leader.

“Guess we should introduce ourselves, huh?” The ghoul spoke, his voice much more softer than expected. He continued, after Leo had nodded. “I’m Cole. This is Sam, my wife.” He motioned to the werewolf woman, who nodded in acknowledgment. “And that’s Alice, our leader.”

Ariesaela nodded as Alice smiled, making eye contact from where she stood on the other side of the table. Alice’s eyes fluttered to the side before she looked at Leo, nodding.

“My name is Leandro, but call me Leo.” Ariesaela could hear the smile in his voice, only to see it a second later when Leo turned and motioned to herself. “And this is Ariesaela.”

Sam glanced at Ariesaela before sitting down on the opposite side of the table, directly across. Alice sat down beside Ariesaela, and in between Alice and Sam, Cole sat.

“Is there anything you’d like to drink? We’re still waiting on some more people.” Leo spoke over his shoulder as he walked back to the counter.

“Water, whiskey and if you have any juice?” Alice spoke, her voice was surprisingly low and rough sounding.

“Any specific type of juice?” Leo disappeared behind the counter, only to pop up a second later with a new bottle.

“Strawberry.” Cole spoke up.

Leo came walking back to the tables a moment later, placing a pitcher of water down and two bottles. Alice reached for the whiskey, Sam grabbed the water and Cole grabbed the juice. Ariesaela stared at her empty cup, not sure of what to do.

She still didn’t know why she had listened or even stayed, she really had no business here besides what Leo had said. Even that seemed sketchy and untrustworthy.

Ariesaela suddenly remembered hearing rumors of the surface, of how people would talk random kids into different sketchy trades. She had heard how kids were sold to different military groups, to different countries to become soldiers. There were much worse things as well, the ones who were fast or had abilities who were sold to War Lords to become their personal servants, slaves and other horrible things.

She glanced over at Sam, who had been watching her since the trio had first arrived. Sam was looking away though, seeming to be lost in thought when Cole nudged her arm. Sam looked at Cole and if Ariesaela had to blink a few times because Sam had smiled and her long, sharp teeth were on display for a moment. Then Sam shook her head and leaned over and whispered something into Cole’s ear.

There was another knock at the door and Leo made his way over to answer. Four more people walked in, three men who wore the same outfits and a woman who wore a dark purple cloak.

The men all wore a mask that covered their faces from below the eyes, each of their eyes almost seeming to be glowing a deep crimson red. They had long black jackets with a deep, royal purple embroidering. They also had swords that rested against their hips, attached to a belt on each of their waists.

The woman had long, platinum blonde hair that was done in a fancy up-do, her ashen brown skin contrasting her hair pleasantly. Her eyes were bright red and she wore make up that was expertly done. She wore two robes that were a mixture of the colors black, royal purple and lavender and a large grey sash was wrapped round her waist, tied at the back. She was beautiful and her eyes in particular, were stunning but there was something about her that made Ariesaela feel uncomfortable.

Leo sat them at the other table, not having the time to introduce them when there was another knock at the door. This time, a small child had walked in without waiting for an answer.

She had long pale purple hair that dripped water onto the ground at her feet, her eyes were bright lime green and she had black markings all along her skin. She wore a white dress that dragged behind her, though there was not a speck of dirt on it. She walked in and sat at the table with the blonde woman and the three mysterious men.

“I need your hands.” The girl’s voice was strong and commanding, sounding nothing like her appearance.

The blonde woman gave the girl her hands and Ariesaela watched, along with Alice, Leo, Sam and Cole. The girl closed her eyes and stilled completely, muttering words of a language no one knew. She let go of the woman’s hands and looked up at her, green eyes hard.

“The lost twin will return, while the other runs. Your loss will fade, but if you’re not safe, it will turn into wickedness. Your trades will expand greatly as your people suffer. A choice has already been made and what happens afterwards is up to your choice.” The girl looked at the men, placing her hands out and waiting.

The men stared at the blonde, who simply nodded before they placed their hands out. The girl took each of their hands, speaking much of the same cryptic words. The girl paused when she got to the last man, her eye flittering to the blonde woman before looking at the man again.

“Grief will change into misery. You will feel greatly betrayed by someone you love. You have another betrayal, but this time it will ruin you comepletly.” The girl paused, then placed her hand on the table, in front of the blonde, a silent question. The woman placed her hand in the little girl’s as she held the man’s in the other. She let go of both, nodding at the both of them.

“Intertwined. One sided. Power and Control.” The little girl nodded, then got off the chair and walked to the other table. The three men and the blonde woman stood up and left without another word or glance back.

Leo had moved off the chair, letting the girl sit as he went to go grab a chair from the other table, sitting in between Sam and the girl.

“I have many names, but you may call me Lof.” Lof smiled, looking around the table. Her eyes seemed to shimmer a bit, as if she was more comfortable now that the members of the other table had left. “I’m sorry about that, the Queen makes demands and I must follow her beck and call. Such is a the fate that had me indebt to her.”

“Queen..?” Ariesaela wasn’t able to catch herself in time, the question slipping out as it had formed in her mind. Instantly, she covered her mouth.

Lof looked at her, a lopsided grin on her face. “Yes. That woman, Amethyst, is the Queen of the vampires. She was named after her family’s beloved crystal.” Lof looked at Alice and her face softened. She looked almost, sympathetic. “It is hard, seeing old faces.”

Alice shook her head. “Didn’t think she’d look the same.”

Everyone glanced at each other in confusion. After a few seconds, it became apparent that there wasn’t going to be any answers. Leo coughed into his arm and finally, Cole broke the silence.

“Lof, I have a question, if that’s alright?” Green eyes skittered to Cole, a silent permission. “You said you were indebted to the Queen, may I ask why?”

Suddenly, Lof clapped her hands together as she wore a big grin in her face and leaned back in her seat. “Well, since you were ever so kind to ask, I will tell you. It had started around 700 years ago, back when I was a mere child. Long before the Great War.” She paused, leaning further into her chair. “Seers were very rare, since we were hunted. Vampires, at this point, had already begun extending all of the other kind lives. But I was a rare type, most of my kind had already died out.”

Leo had poured Lof a cup of water, to which she smiled and took a large sip. “I had Met Amethyst near a lake, at a country long gone, as are its culture and traditions. Amethyst keeps them alive as much she can though, which I can respect.” Lof shook her head. “Anyways, Amethyst was a child as well. She had met me and we became friends. Her parents, the Emperor and Empress of vampires, had allowed me to live with them after finding out I was a seer. I led them to many victories, many triumphs. But I was sick.”

Ariesaela looked around the table, at everyone who was watching Lof with the same, shared expressions.

“So the Empress, the damn bleeding heart she was, gave me the rest of her life. Told me to guide her daughter.” Lof laughed harshly. “I do not follow new magic, I am of old times. I do not need this extended life nor do I need this curse of seeing the future. Amethyst seeks me out only when absolutely necessary, otherwise we have little to do with the other. I gave her a half explained prediction once, and it cost her greatly. She decided to add to my life span, by linking herself to me. And for that, I’m indebt to her.”

Lof suddenly looked at Ariesaela, wearing a lazy grin. “Shall I take your fortune, Ariesaela?”

She must have looked shocked or wearing some sort of expression considering Leo glanced at her then snickered quietly. Blinking a few times, she tentatively placed her hands onto the table in front of Lof. Lof smiled, grabbing her hands and stilled, before pulling her hands away.

Lof narrowed her eyes. “You have greatness waiting for you down the road. There are three paths laid before you, as of now. Depending on your choices you make this next year, whichever path you go down is up to you. There is something else…” Lof trailed off, looking off into space before looking back at Ariesaela, a sadness in her eyes. “You will experience a great pain that will change you, shake your very being to the core.”

Ariesaela looks off to the side, not sure what to make out of what was said. She doesn’t get the chance to ask what it means since Lof then takes Alice’s hands into hers.

“Your future is lively. You are surrounded by nature, in a position of power but also very kind. You have good people with you, as you are surrounded and maintain peace. There will come a time, far into the future, where you will meet someone who will force you to make a choice. I cannot see beyond that.” Alice grimaces and looks down to her lap.

Lof takes Cole’s hands and smiles sweetly and he returns the smile. Cole seems to be a cheerful person, as he happily moves his head while waiting for Lof to speak. “Your training goes well. You have already met the person who will train you and push you past your limits. Your strength lies in your mind, not in your fists or weapons. You will struggle a lot, but none of it is bad.” Cole seems to pause before nodding.

Sam already has her hands out and Ariesaela can see how her the tips of her finger turn into claws. Lof doesn’t seem concerned as she takes Sam’s hands into hers. “Your loyalty knows no bounds, which is both a powerful and dangerous thing. Acceptance, love and admiration will make itself known to you in groups. You will be recognized far into the future and be faced with a few choices that will change your future.”

Sam looks up and takes a deep breath while Cole wraps his arm around her shoulders. Sam leans into his hold, a small smile of appreciation on her face. She glances at Lof, who had been watching her closely. “Thank you.” Sam’s voice is light and soft, surprising Ariesaela a bit. Sam looks intimidating in her size in height and her serious face.

Lof nods and then turns and grabs Leo’s hands. “Your will to protect someone dear to you is strong, which means you will sacrifice a few things. You cannot change someone else’s mind, which will force you into a position of standing on the sidelines. You will and already have, watched someone you love suffer. But worry not, they will soon get better once they meet someone to help. Your future is bright but your own worry and overprotective tendencies cloud your judgment.”

Lof pulled away from Leo’s hands, leaning over the table and grabbing the pitcher of water and pouring herself a cup. After a moment, she leans back into her chair and sighs. “I want to say something, but the fear of changing the future is too great.”

“Tell us, the future is always changing as peoples hearts change constantly.”

Ariesaela looks at Alice, surprised that she was the one to speak. Turning back to Lof, who simply smiles and looks up at the ceiling, Ariesaela can feel the air turn cold in the room.

“The one who will change the world and bring an end to this corruption, he has been born. He is one I will meet soon and someone I’ve now seen in every future I’ve seen in many.” Lof brings her head down and looks around the table at everyone before laughing to herself. “I’ve only ever seen glimpses of him, some people have been lucky enough to know him personally, in the futures I’ve foreseen but.” She shakes her head, looking up again. “I haven’t seen him so deeply intertwined.”

Everyone glances at each other, sharing looks of confusion and worry but by the time they look back at Lof, she is gone. Nothing but an empty chair and glass left show any proof that she was even there.

[tsaritsa]

praise loudly, blame softly

this fic can also be found at ff.net or ao3

PREVIOUS CHAPTER

"I have seen three great monarchies brought down through their failure to separate personal indulgences from duty. You must not allow yourself to make similar mistakes. And while you mourn your father, you must also mourn someone else: Elizabeth Mustang. For she has now been replaced by another person, Elizabeth Regina. The two Elizabeth's will frequently be in conflict with one another. The fact is, the crown must win. Must always win."

The King was well-known for being a somewhat difficult man at the best of times, but on the day of his eldest daughter’s wedding Major Matthew Miles felt that the man was perhaps leaning into his ill-tempered persona a little too much.

“Is it too hard,” the older man fumed, wringing his hands in agitation, “to expect some sort of professionalism for crying out loud? It is my daughter’s wedding-”

“Right you are, sir,” Miles smoothly interrupted, taking the bowtie from the young butler (a new one, if his eyes weren’t deceiving him) and folding it in his hands in the proper fashion, jerking his head towards the younger man to leave. “You must forgive us; we are all just as excited as you must be.”

Berthold eyed the Major carefully, taking a long drag of his cigarette. “Are you doing that Ishvallan thing where you say nice things to my face, but mean much ruder things in your words?” He blew the smoke out lazily, watching the tendrils dissipate into the air. “Well, Major?”

Miles blinked, nonplussed. “Of course not, your majesty. But if I may present you with a challenge…” Berthold snorted derisively.

“A sea captain’s young bride, fell into the bay at low tide...” Miles began, the barest of smirks pulling at his lips.  There was a pause, before the King sighed, and readjusted his position as Miles began to fasten the tie. “You could tell by her squeals,” he continued, “that some of the eels-”

He pulled back and nodded at the King. Berthold raised an eyebrow.

“-had discovered a dark place to hide.” Miles finished easily.

“You’re getting better, Miles,” Berthold replied, rubbing at his chin. “Let me see…ah – there once was a girl named Mariah, who succumbed to a lover’s desire.” He accepted the sash given to him by another butler, motioning for Miles to stay close by. “She said ‘it’s a sin! But now that it’s in’,”

A lewd smile grew on the King’s face. “‘Could you shove it a few inches higher?’”

Miles hid a smile behind a gloved hand. “Very good sir. I will have to think of a winning one for next time.”

Berthold nodded, stubbing out his cigarette on the ashtray next to him on the mantelpiece, running a hand over his hair. “Do you think they will notice?” he asked, turning back to Miles and gesturing at his face.

“Does Your Majesty require more rouge?” an elderly butler asked, but Miles held up his hand, waving the man off.

“There are hot water bottles in the carriage for when you leave, which should do more than enough for your complexion. As soon as you are seated in the church nobody will pay you much attention, I confess,” Miles admitted.

Berthold smiled weakly. “But you don’t think-”

“I wouldn’t wish to overdo it, sir. It is cold today. I think I’d be more worried for the princesses – I do not imagine they have the luxury of long johns like we do.”

The King laughed loudly, before coughing violently, gripping the back of the nearest chair as he bent over. There were a few moments of laboured breathing before he righted himself, moving the handkerchief away from his mouth – it was speckled with red, Miles noted uneasily. The wedding had been on everyone’s nerves, both inside and outside the palace: aside from the stigma Mustang brought over from his family based in Southern Xing, the amount of planning and preparing that had gone into this event meant that mistakes would not and could not be tolerated.

This was the first real test for the family – for Berthold’s family. The scandal that had arisen from Zolf’s sudden abdication and the much quieter scandal that they had managed to keep almost entirely under wraps meant that they were being closely scrutinised, not only by their populace but by neighbouring nations. A transition like that was never meant to go peacefully – any sign of weakness in the family today would be torn apart for clues and signs of discord.

The door swung open suddenly, and Rebecca practically floated in, ignoring the sudden exclamations form the butlers hovering around the room.

“Papa!” she exclaimed, skipping over to him, a wide smile on her face as she balanced a cigarette in-between fingers tightly clenching a near-empty flute of champagne. “You look very handsome.” She draped her free hand over her father’s shoulders and inclined her head at Miles, still smiling broadly. “Don’t you think so, Major?”

Miles bit down a smile and nodded. “Of course he does, Princess. I cannot imagine a prouder father.”

Something flickered in Rebecca’s expression, before she turned to face her father properly, deftly handing her glass and cigarette to a maid as she straightened his collar.

“You must look perfect for Riza,” she murmured under her breath, the grin still sitting brightly on her face. Her dark hair had been tamed into a tight coif, with baby’s breath surrounding her head like a halo. She had changed into her bridesmaid dress: it was a simple design, accented with floral motifs from each district in the delicate lacing surrounding her bodice. It wasn’t entirely suited to her – most certainly to Elizabeth, to be sure – but Miles felt that perhaps even old sibling rivalries couldn’t be laid to rest for the sake of each other.

Miles stepped back to allow the King and his younger daughter some privacy to talk, catching Rebecca’s eyes for a moment before another butler began to whisper furiously in his ear about an incident downstairs involving the groom’s party. Miles sighed inwardly, before gesturing for the man to lead the way.

He was going to need a drink after all this.

She could already hear the roars and screams from the crowd that had assembled outside the palace – a quick peek through the curtains confirmed just as much: the crowd was a sea of green and gold outside, as far as her eyes could see. All waiting for her.

Riza didn’t do well with stress of any kind. She never had – as a child she had always been the more reserved of her and her sister – Becca had always shone under the spotlight, practically lived for it. Becca had the flair for the dramatics that lent her a particular kind of gravitas that Riza could only wish for. No amount of practice would ever fully prepare her for talking with people who may have well been strangers in any other situation: but for some reason being a princess meant that everyone talked to her with the air of an old friend, with the assumption that they knew her intimately.

They did not.

Though she didn’t quite share her father’s hatred of public speaking – provided she actually understood the topic and felt keenly about it, Riza certainly felt she could be very compelling; but the fact still remained that such a significant moment in her life was going to be watched by people of whom she had never met before and was unlikely ever to in future. It didn’t sit well with her that her marriage to Roy Mustang – and she was still shrieking a little inside that she was going to marry that beautiful, idiotic man and he would be all hers – would be shared with people and countries beyond her reach.

It was a moment meant for them, and them alone. Not fifty million others.

She turned from where she hovered by the curtains, her hands running over the lace of her dress as she paced the room. She was grateful her mother wasn’t here, instead someplace else undoubtedly trying to reign in a younger sister that had already helped herself to too much brandy at breakfast, because Riza didn’t think she could listen to her prattling right now. She was a mess of emotions, but terror was the overarching one. What if she mucked up her vows partway through? What if he decided he didn’t want to go through with it, and just left her standing at the altar? What if-

“You’re going to wear a hole into that carpet if you’re not careful,” a familiar voice said behind her. She whirled around, hands flying to her mouth as she realised who had walked in.

“Roy, what are you doing-”

He smirked and held a finger up to his lips ducking his head out the doorway for a moment before carefully closing the door with a slight click.

“You can’t just-”

It only took him three quick strides to gather her up in a bruising kiss, his warm hands cupping her face and sending shivers down her spine as his thumbs rubbed over her pale cheeks. Riza sighed into the kiss, allowing herself to wrap her arms around his neck and draw him closer to her – as much as her dress would let her. He was a much-needed reprieve from the emotions churning inside her, and though she knew she wasn’t meant to be seeing him until the ceremony – the old superstitions surrounding the traditions of weddings niggled at the back of her mind – but there wasn’t anybody else she would be genuinely happy to see in this moment. Her father never had the right words at the right time, her mother had far too many, and Becca – well, judging by the amount of brandy that was missing from the decanter at breakfast, Riza supposed that her younger sister wouldn’t be capable of much coherency anyway.

Roy treated her like a normal woman. Like a human. Too many people were always trying to touch her, to talk to her like they had any right and Zolf had –

She stopped that thought in its tracks, pulling back her shoulders slightly and standing straight, steadfastly ignoring the prickle travelling across her back. Now was not the time to dwell on a man who was a good as dead to the family.

Roy pulled back and inspected her, a soft smile on his face. “Much better,” he said lowly, carefully rearranging her fringe. “Now you have some colour to your cheeks.”

Her hands flew to her cheeks and she groaned, turning towards the full-length mirror on the opposite side of the small room. Roy laughed, a hand drifting down to rest on her waist, his fingers rubbing against the satin of her bodice reassuringly. “Did you have enough to eat this morning?” he asked quietly, shifting her hair aside to drop a kiss on her back, at the top of the mottled skin. She shivered slightly at the touch – not unwelcome, but she always marvelled at Roy’s capacity to love without any kind of hesitation.

“I had some toast,” she answered, closing her eyes and leaning back into his touch for a moment, focusing on her breathing. “I’ll be able to eat once this is all over – this dress, I swear to-.”

Roy snorted harshly. “We’ll all be happier once this is over. I saw your sister on my way here – is she-”

“Yes,” she interrupted tiredly, turning so she could face him properly. Up close, she could see the signs of stress on his face – he certainly could hide it better than she ever would, but it made her feel a little better to know that she wasn’t the only one stressing out about this. Her fingers brushed along his brow bone and she stretched onto her tiptoes to kiss him softly. “We’ll deal with her later – well, somebody will. We have more important things to do.”

“Like getting married,” he murmured, the joy obvious in his voice.

“Like getting married,” she repeated, unable to keep the broad smile off her face.

He kissed her once more, and Riza let herself smile widely, giggling against his mouth as he peppered her face with kisses that were more ticklish than soothing: she batted his hands away, grasping them tightly as she tried to fight him off.

“You’re the worst-”

“You like it,” he reminded her playfully, smirking as she tried to push his arms back to his side. She was too restrained in this dress; normally Roy wouldn’t underestimate her in any kind of fight, whether verbal or physical, but seeing her struggle in this strange, made-up way was far too entertaining.

He relaxed his arms and let her adjust herself and smooth down the dress quickly. She smiled at him nervously, eyes bright. “You should- you should go,” she said hesitantly, twisting her fingers together. Roy inclined his head.

“Are you-”

“I’m fine!” she replied quickly. “Just – you know how I am with crowds, and-”

Roy nodded, reaching to adjust the pearl necklace she was wearing – a gift from him early on in their courtship. Though it was easy enough to transmute mother-of-pearl, this necklace had been created in the traditional fashion (Roy claimed he had hand-harvested each and every pearl – Riza thought he was full of it).

The gifts didn’t matter to her – she had more than enough wealth simply from her own savings, not to mention the coffers that were made available to her if she so wished: but no amount of money could buy what she craved – privacy, quiet, boundaries.

He was the first person that didn’t immediately treat her like an old friend, like he was privy to her secrets and affections. It was a startlingly refreshing change from the other suitors her mother had been coaxing over: for once in her life she was able to savour the ability to say, ‘call me Riza’ of her own volition. The way he had breathed it hadn’t helped her either – like a prayer, like she was sacred. The subsequent kiss had sealed her fate: beyond the intoxicating feeling of him under her fingers, beyond the warmth that had burned like fire on her lips, there was a man who she was already half in love with, by the mere fact that he didn’t presume.

She wrung her hands slightly, trying to ease the nerves she could feel building once more. “Honestly though – you shouldn’t be here, where is Maes-”

“Maes may or may not be causing one hell of a distraction for me,” he quipped, rolling on the balls of his heels. “My time is probably up, anyway. I’ll-” He paused, cocking his head to the side before rubbing a thumb over her bottom lip – Riza tried her best not to close her eyes as a wave of pleasure brushed over her. He was addictive, a trait that had reared its ugly head in the last few weeks. She couldn’t remember the last time she had time to properly enjoy the time she spent with him. In the days following the announcement of their engagement her grandfather had warned her that they days spent shrouded in secrecy were long behind them – Riza was only just beginning to appreciate the few stolen nights she had managed in the last month alone. She worried for him, sometimes; his marrying into this family was far more taxing for him than it would ever be for her, and yet he barely seemed to notice as more duties and responsibilities were thrust upon him.

All for her.

“Now you look presentable,” he said softly, squeezing her hand tightly. “All prim and proper for the people.”

She bit her lip, nodding. “I’ll be glad when all of this is over,” she admitted, running her thumbs over the fingers grasping her hands. She could feel the heat from his body from where she stood, apart from him, and part of her desperately wished this whole affair could be over and done with without the pomp and circumstance. She was just so tired.

“Me too,” he replied, dropping a final, soft kiss on her cheek before ducking out the room, quietly shutting the door behind him. She could hear Maes beyond the wood, chastising her fiancé for taking so long.

“That butler was onto me, I swear if you-”

“You look fine, so obviously you weren’t caught-”

“You won’t be so lucky – you’ve got lipstick all over you, idiot.”

[indn341callum]

different idea again, main reason for change is the stigma of ankle monitors and criminals (whoops). so i chose a sash as it is eye catching because sashes are only used in celebration or winning, so it draws interest so the surrounding people have a greater chance of seeing the message on the sash so everyone knows to keep an eye out, aided by bright colouring. i chose to move from actuators to vibrating motors as i believe it will be a more comfortable interaction for the user, and easier to understand.