#SpringStorms

[weathermadness]

While it will be snowing in Wyoming, severe weather will return to the eastern Plains tomorrow. Storms that develop along the cold front may contain damaging winds and large hail. A tornado threat will exist from northeast Kansas into central Iowa in the afternoon.

[kye-bye]

[verdantvisionsai]

Beneath the tapestry of thunderous spring skies, nature's raw power dances freely, painting the world in hues of stormy beauty. In the symphony of rain-kissed leaves and electrifying winds, one can't help but stand in awe of the majestic forces at play. May the serenity of this moment remind you of nature's fierce yet breathtaking might.

[cozynosy]

SPRING STORM

A redraw of something from arooound 2023? i am proud of my progress

[dissociativewriter]

Once Upon Another Time

Love and Deepspace x Phantom of the Opera

Pairing: Sylus x Christine (OC) x Caleb

wc: 1.4k

cw: nothing bad in this part but for the rest- implied murder, maybe actual murder eventually, consensual kidnapping (?) eventually, probably angst eventually; not proofread; no beta we die like Josephine

Synopsis: A singer at the opera house, Christine is faced with a Colonel from a childhood she barely remembers and a mysterious figure, called the Opera Ghost, who seems to know all the secrets of the opera house and beyond. Stuck between life above and below the opera house, Christine attempts to balance her care for the two men with her budding career in opera. Unfortunately, it seems neither man will settle for half of Christine’s love.

author’s note: writing Caleb’s perspective while still keeping the ‘mystery’ (even though it’s obvious who he is) was more challenging than I thought. I also feel like I wrote too much chemistry between Rafayel and Christine for him not even being a love interest, but I’m going to establish their relationship as purely platonic in the next part so it’s fine.

art found on Pinterest (springstorm art & sesame fruit)

Series Masterlist

2- Think of Me

Christine blinked in the bright light. She stared out at the unfamiliar faces before her, who only stared back expectantly. Christine suddenly felt the weight of the hundreds of people waiting for her, for her singing, for her performance, pushing down deep in her lungs. The weight of their stares, the weight of their expectations, the weight of her ornate ballgown. It all felt like too much, more than she could handle on her own.

With a shallow, shaky breath, Christine brought her posture up; shoulders back, head held high, just as she’d been taught. Her eyes drifted across the crowd as she waited for her cue. Why there was such a delay after the curtain rose, Christine didn’t know. If they didn’t hurry, she noted nervously, she would have to perform unaccompanied.

She looked to Box 5. The center of many rumors and legends that circled the opera house, and an area of particular interest to Christine now. Empty yet imposing, Christine searched for anything in the famed box that could either confirm her suspicions or put her mind to rest. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, but Christine couldn’t explain the flash of crimson she’d seen before going on stage. She saw nothing more, however, and was quickly pulled away from her observation as the conductor tapped his baton.

The soft piano notes echoed through the concert hall, and Christine took one final deep breath before beginning her performance.

‘Think of Me.’ A somber song, but beautiful nonetheless. A plea to a past love not to forget. Inherently nostalgic to Christine from a childhood she could not fully remember. Her melancholy voice filled the opera house, capturing the attention of the audience.

Christine’s voice rose as the music swelled, finding her confidence alongside her voice. Settling into the music, Christine didn’t notice the crimson glint in the tall shadowy figure at the back of Box 5, or the Colonel only just taking his seat in Box 3, his interest apparent in his expression.

The Colonel lifted his hat, resting it in his lap as dark brown locks fell over his eyes. Leaning forward, holding onto the railing of the box, he muttered, “Can it be…?” As there was a brief instrumental break in the song, a few shouts of ‘bravo!’ could be heard throughout the concert hall. The violet eyes of the Colonel scanned the singer’s face, searching for something undeniably familiar.

He settled on her eyes, a familiar, determined glint drawing him in. The Colonel was reminded of summers long past, of two children in the countryside. “Can it be Christine?”

The Colonel resolved to meet her after the performance. Although it had been requested that singers not be approached, nothing was out of reach for the Colonel of the Farspace Fleet. And surely an exception could be made for a childhood friend, right?

The Colonel looked over the railing of Box 3, down, over the heads of those in Box 4, into Box 5. Withholding his disappointment on finding it empty, he leaned back in his seat. His eyes fixated on the girl on stage, and as her song came to a close, he felt something settle in his chest.

“After all this time,” he whispered. “I’ve found you again.” His hand flexed as he breathed, “Christine.”

Thunderous applause rumbled through the opera house as Christine curtsied, her smile wide and bright. Hands clasped as she bowed again, Christine was eager to run off stage, back to the safety of her dressing room. The thrill of performance was undeniable, but it was impossible to not crave the comfort and familiarity in this alien experience. She turned from the stage as the curtains closed, immediately met with the blinding grin of Rafayel.

“See? I told you, you’d be amazing!” He pulled her into a tight hug, holding her close.

Christine frantically patted his shoulder. “Raf, you’re suffocating me!” He loosened his grip slightly, pouting into her hair all the while.

“I can’t help it! You were beautiful out there!” She felt his wide grin against her neck as he nearly vibrated with excitement. His voice took a softer tone as he asked, “Do you feel alright? Anything wrong? I know performing can be nerve-wracking.”

Christine rested her head against his chest. “It was scary when I first went on stage. When the music didn’t start, I didn’t know what to do!” She felt Rafayel nod. “But once I got into the song, it was really thrilling.” She smiled.

“I’m so glad, cutie. You let me know if anything goes wrong, alright?” His grip tightened again, but Christine didn’t complain this time. “Your big, strong Raf will come to the rescue!”

Christine snorted, but before she could respond, they were interrupted by someone clearing their throat. Rafayel raised his head, completely prepared to tell whoever it was to wait their turn, that his cutie just had an amazing performance and he wanted to make sure she knew it, but the words died in his throat when he caught sight of the insignia on his coat. He shifted uncomfortably, not wanting to let go but knowing he should before things escalated beyond annoyance. He reluctantly released Christine under the hard, scrutinizing gaze of the Colonel.

“Christine?” Though the edge on his voice softened slightly, the Colonel still stood before them, tall and imposing. She looked up at him, nodding slightly. “Could I talk to you in private?” He sidestepped beside them, motioning to a secluded hallway backstage. Christine gave one final, curious look to Rafayel, who only mirrored her own confusion, before following the Colonel.

Once they were by themselves, the Colonel grabbed Christine’s hands, tightly engulfing them in his own as if he were afraid she would disappear. Christine looked at him, the shock evident in her eyes even though she tried to keep a neutral expression.

“How can I help you, Colonel?” She swallowed nervously.

His brows drew together. “You… don’t recognize me?”

“Am I supposed to?” Christine cocked her head.

“Yes!” He said a bit more forcefully than he intended, internally wincing as Christine flinched back. “I just…” the Colonel sighed, taking his hat off and running a hand through his hair. He looked back to Christine, eyes wide and pleading. “We were practically raised together. Don’t you remember?”

Christine frowned. “I’m really very sorry, but I don’t remember a Caleb. Maybe you’re thinking of a different Christine?” she offered, her frown only deepening as he shook his head. An impatient cry of her name brought Christine’s attention away from the Colonel, much to his chagrin.

She turned back to him, now offering an apologetic smile. “I’ve got to get going. It was wonderful meeting you, Colonel, and I hope you find who you’re looking for.”

The Colonel stared after her as she ran off, disbelief and disappointment mingling in his violet eyes. A small smile found its way onto his lips as she watched her happily converse with Talia. “Long ago,” he whispered hoarsely. “It seems so long ago. How young and innocent we were! She may not remember me, but I remember her.” Caleb grinned somberly.

After only a couple more performances, the chattering audience was ushered out of the opera house, their praises of the night’s singers echoing in the darkened streets. Christine, in all the bustle of the crowd, managed to sneak away to satiate her curiosity. Swallowing her fear, she forcibly pulled back the curtain leading into Box 5.

She didn’t know whether to be disappointed or relieved upon finding the chairs undisturbed. She took a step further in, searching for any indication of the Opera Ghost. While she stubbornly believed the him to be only a rumor, she couldn’t explain what she had seen before her performance. And who knows, Christine thought, maybe knowing the Opera Ghost wouldn’t be so bad.

She sighed upon finding nothing, but just as she was turning to leave, a glossy black on the arm of the seat caught her eye. She knelt down next to the seat to have a closer look. Carefully balancing the delicate crow’s feather between her fingers, Christine didn’t notice the two watchful eyes on her.

The Phantom of the Opera watched the singer so blatantly intrude upon his space, and, for once, did not act in malice. He stood, attentive eyes trained on her, a long-forgotten emotion passing through his crimson eyes. Maybe someone knowing the Opera Ghost wouldn’t be so bad, he thought.

comments and reblogs appreciated! <3

masterlist

[mendely]

mendelssohnformer. happy birthday dude, you're a fucked up looking stealth aircraft

thinking of turning him into a tf oc named Springstorm

[sheri42]

Spring Storms; #springstorms #poetry #haiku #smallpoems #napowrimo #napowrimo25

[iffoundreturntosea]

March 29, Day 88/89

Day 88 2015

Grandpa & I made peppermint ice cream today. This little guy came up and was licking the salt from the water we used.

#toocute #country #animal #nature #rabbit #bunny #spring #afternoon #picoftheday #project365 #day88

10 years later, after just seeing him, it was quite a bit different of a visit with my grandpa. Always cherished though.

Day 89 2016

What would you wish for?

#wish #dandelion #grass #yard #nature #outdoors #green #shadesofgreen #march #picoftheday #project365 #day89

Day 88 2017

What I think, turns into sticker

#weeds #grass #lawn #stickers #flora #nature #outdoors #macro #march #picoftheday #project365 #day88

Day 88 2018

Patrick

#beautiful #seagreeneyes #iris #lashes #pools #lookslikethecaribbean #eyeball #eye #theeyesofmarch #march #picoftheday #project365 #day88

Day 88 2019

Pop's place 😻

#vet #vetclinic #animals #dvm #smallbusiness #nationalmomandpopbusinessownersday #march #march29 #2019 #nationalday #nationaldaycalendar #picoftheday #project365 #day88

Day 89 2020

More spring rains on the way

#texas #spring #sunset #clouds #stormy #springstorms #springhassprung #march #march29 #2020 #picoftheday #project365 #day89

I love me some rainy days. The more the better!

Day 88 2021

I did a thing and it was amazing! 🏝🐴

#Galloway #horse #equine #beach #beachride #horseback #horsebackriding #gulfofmexico #water #march #march29 #2021 #picoftheday #project365 #day88

Not only did I take a solo trip to Corpus Christi but then I went horse back riding on the beach! I haven't been on the back of a horse since I was a kid. So many big wins for me this week.

Day 88 2022

Red Dahlia

#reddahlia #dahliacoccinea #flowers #spring #texas #pretty #march #march29 #2022 #picoftheday #project365 #day88

Day 88 2023

It was so cool and the humidity was so low all day, so nice!

#notreadyforsummer #iwontsurvive #winnie #beach #lunchbreak #driftwood #march #march29 #2023 #picoftheday #project365 #day88

Day 89 2024

During my trip to Missouri I was finding faces everywhere. This one definitely wants to call you up and tell you a juicy secret.

#communication #dailytheme #phone #hiddenface #iseethemeverywhere #march #march29 #2024 #picoftheday #project365 #day89

A friend saw this and mentioned that hidden faces sounds like a good show or collection name. I might have to do something with this!

[maryjabens]

Spring Storms 8x10” oil I love the storms that snow in the mountains and rain in the low country- my perfect winter lol! I never get tired of seeing the clouds roll over the mountain range and light up Red Hill!! This is the painting from last week- I merged some of the clouds as I didn’t like the separation lines I had created. available msg me or website link in bio. #spring #springstorms #visitcedarcity #maryjabensart #windowtomysoul #zion #southernutah #goodforthesoul #utahrocks #livinglife #womenartistofthewest #womenartistofinstagram #utahig #optoutdoors #keeppainting #wander_souls #southwestlife #naturelover #artforsalebyartist #feelinghappy #boldbrush #exploreutah #mytinyatlas #mhoilpaints #dailypaintworks #cedarcityarts (at Cedar City, Utah) https://www.instagram.com/p/CONZUS4HXsV/?igshid=csamqt8bw85k

[cmjhawk86]

Mid-ride stop at @starbucks seemed like a good idea until I looked up at the sky. Let’s just say the ride back home was a little more vigorous. I had hoped to stop and check out the new @thebikelane shop on the #wodtrail but that will have to wait. I beat the downpour home by about 2 minutes. #bikelife #bikeblr #runblr #fitblr #recoveryweek #roadcycling #frappuccino #springstorms (at Fairfax County, Virginia) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bw-TJ6Ahlyp/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=uws1c2hqjhld

[kmrice]

Spring storms dashing new leaves off of their boughs. #kmriceauthor #kmrice #wildlings #santacruzmountains #spring #springstorms https://www.instagram.com/p/BxlQDwmAf_5/?igshid=18jqr8w38l5mp

[verdantvisionsai]

Lost in a world where the heavens dance with the earth, the stormy skies of spring whisper secrets of renewal and rebirth. Each rolling cloud a tale untold, each rumble of thunder a heartbeat of the wild. In the midst of this majestic symphony, we find solace in the beauty of nature's ever-changing canvas.

[cedella38]

Not enjoying the thunderstorm ⛈️⚡️ #catsofinstagram #springstorms (at Tangletown) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqeE1I0OX_0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[dissociativewriter]

Once Upon Another Time

Love and Deepspace x Phantom of the Opera

Pairing: Sylus x Christine (OC) x Caleb

wc: 1.9k

cw: implied murder, nothing bad really happens in this part, maybe actual murder eventually, consensual kidnapping (?) eventually, probably angst eventually; not proofread; no beta we die like Josephine

Synopsis: A singer at the opera house, Christine is faced with a Colonel from a childhood she barely remembers and a mysterious figure, called the Opera Ghost, who seems to know all the secrets of the opera house and beyond. Stuck between life above and below the opera house, Christine attempts to balance her care for the two men with her budding career in opera. Unfortunately, it seems neither man will settle for half of Christine’s love.

author’s note: I’ve had this idea in my head for a while and finally decided to write it! I’m currently planning on this having about 15 parts, but that’s not definite. I hope someone likes this idea as much as I do.

art found on Pinterest (springstorm art & sesame fruit)

Series Masterlist

1- Overture

The chatter of the crowd echoed in the concert hall as Christine peeked out from behind the curtain. She twisted the rings on her fingers, glancing around at the hundreds of people waiting expectantly. The corset to her elaborate costume gown suddenly felt too tight, leaving Christine gasping as if a weight were on her chest. Two warm hands on her shoulders helped to steady her.

“Careful there, cutie. Wouldn’t want you to pass out right before your big performance.” The playful tone of her coworker helped to ease her breathing, but she couldn’t escape the worry when she looked in his eyes.

“Rafayel… what if I can’t do it? All these people are waiting to hear me.” She pointed to herself in disbelief. “Me? I can’t help but feel like they’ll be disappointed.”

Rafayel’s brows drew together, the gaze in his deep sunrise-like eyes hardening as he turned her around to face him. “Hey, hey, none of that. You wouldn’t be here, about to go on stage if you weren’t talented. Do you hear me?” He leaned down a little, making sure he was eye level so she couldn’t look away. Seeing a smile tug at the corners of her lips, he eased his grip a bit. “Besides, if you’re panicking, who’s going to comfort me? I have to go on after you, how am I supposed to match that?”

Christine rolled her eyes, the comfort of their bantering lessening her panic. “Please, Raf, you sound like a siren.” She crossed her arms, raising a brow. “Sometimes I think you might actually be one.”

“Who knows, cutie, maybe I am. I’m just waiting to lure you in so you’ll fall in love with me.” A grin played in his lips as his hands dropped to his sides. He stepped closer, nudging her with his shoulder. “Is it working?”

Christine laughed, nudging him back. “Not quite. You’ll have to work harder than that.” She reached a hand out, smoothing out a resilient strand in Rafayel’s hair.

“You know, I think it’s working more than you’d like to admit. Just look at you, dying to touch me.” He dramatically held the back of his hand to his forehead, dropping his head back and sighing. “Although I don’t blame you, I am so charming and handsome. Admit it, you’re in love with me!”

“As if!” Christine shoved his back, moving to step past him before he could catch her. He stumbled with a loud yelp.

“Ouch! I’ve fallen, won’t someone help me? I didn’t realize you were so heartless, Christine! How could you just leave me like this after ruthlessly throwing me to the ground?” The sounds of Rafayel’s monologue faded as Christine stepped back into the dressing room, the door softly clicking shut behind her. She walked to the mirror, faced with a reflection she hardly recognized. Stage makeup and detailed costuming made her seem like an entirely different person. She searched for something in her appearance, anything to assure her that she was still Christine, that that wouldn’t go away even if she made her way onto the stage. She finally settled on her eyes. Yes, her eyes. Something distinctly hers, something they couldn’t take away, something they couldn’t hide no matter how many layers of blush.

Christine let out a shaky breath as she smoothed a wrinkle in her white ball gown. It was a beautiful dress, far better than Christine felt deserving to wear. She straightened her back, taking one final look before turning to exist the dressing room.

She was met with mutterings around the corner, hushed whispers of something too concerning to discuss in normal tones. She glanced over, taking note of the silver, starlight-like hair of the tall man she recognized as Xavier. Christine carefully crept behind him, making sure to be as quiet as possible so she could find out why security had to report to the one of the opera house’s most important patrons the night of her big performance.

“…Monsieur Andre, I really don’t think it will be an issue. The Opera Ghost may be a frightening figure, but there shouldn’t be any real issue. If that’s all he is, a ghost, then there’s not much he can do to the audience or performers, and even less we can do to him.” Xavier attempted a reassuring smile as he continued on. “Rest assured, if any issues arise, I’ll be quick to take care of it.”

“I trust you, Xavier, I do. But the Phantom of the Opera has reaches far beyond your own, and I’m afraid he may strike tonight with so many important guests!” Andre took out his handkerchief, wiping the sweat from his brow before imploring the guard, “Please, Xavier, at least stay close by Box 5. You don’t have to go in, I wouldn’t want you to anger the Phantom, but keep an eye on it?” To this, Xavier nodded grimly.

How odd, Christine noted, that Xavier is brushing off the Opera Ghost so easily. He, if anyone, believes the legend most fervently; it’s the entire reason he began to work as a guard for the opera house. He wanted to investigate, see if the tales of terrified party-goers and aristocrats were true. Looking at his face, though, Christine realized: that wasn’t a man unworried, but a man hiding something.

“Christine! I’ve been looking everywhere for you!” The strong voice of Talia cut through Christine’s thoughts, simultaneously striking anxiety into her heart. There was nothing more alarming than the older woman seeking her out personally. “Rafayel keeps whining about something or other about you, we need to make final preparations before your song, and I wanted to make sure your costume was alright.” Before she could protest, Christine was pulled along behind Talia, a firm hand gripping her wrist as she stumbled through the preparations on stage right. Nearing backstage, Christine heard a bit of Rafayel, leaning against a stage prop, holding his makeup artist hostage as he moaned and groaned about how no one respected him anymore.

Ducking her head, she increased her pace with Talia, hoping to dodge the impassioned singer. He caught sight of her, however, and quickly rushed off to catch up with her, leaving his makeup artist scrambling after him, brush in hand.

“Christine! Hold on,” He panted behind them, struggling to catch up as Talia sped up. “A little fishie like me can’t handle this! All this stress you’re putting on me is too much. And some of the chorus girls said they heard something up in the rafters! You don’t think it’s the opera ghost, do you?”

“Rafayel, I’ve told you before, there’s no such thing as the opera ghost! You need to stop encouraging the chorus girls,” Talia grumbled, shaking her head. She abruptly stopped in her tracks, dropping Christine’s hand. “Both of you, behave!” she whispered over her shoulder. She took a proud step forward opening her arms welcomingly. “Colonel! What a wonderful surprise! What brings you to our humble opera house?” She smiled politely, her hands dropping to clasp over her abdomen.

“Madame Talia, so nice to see you!” The Colonel turned, a small smile on his face as he greeted her. He was impossibly tall, imposing, his uniform as crisp and clean as his conversation. “I decided to stop by after I heard such wonderful things of this upcoming performance.” He leaned forward conspiratorially, as if he were going to share a great secret with Talia. “And who knows, maybe I’ll catch a glimpse of this ‘Opera Ghost’ I’ve heard so much about.” He straightened up, noticing the two singers behind Talia, and offered a nod in greeting. His eyes stopped briefly upon seeing Christine, a flicker of some almost-familiar emotion passing through his violet eyes before disappearing as he turned his focus back to Talia.

Christine shifted on her feet uncomfortably, feeling seen in a way she hadn’t in a long time, as if this strange colonel knew something about her that even she didn’t. She leaned over to Rafayel, whispering as Talia and the Colonel talked, “Who is that?”

Rafayel blinked at her for a moment, hesitating as he searched for something in her eyes. “He’s the Farspace Fleet Colonel, and the youngest one they’ve had.” He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. “You don’t have a crush on him, do you?”

Christine’s cheeks flushed slightly. “What? No, he just—” she sighed wistfully. “He seems familiar, somehow.” She gave him one final glance before turning around to make her way to the stage. Her feet moved quickly, trying to shake off the feeling of eyes on her back as something from a past long gone nipped at her heels. She found her usual spot, the corner of the stage where the heavy velvet curtain met aged brick. Christine sighed, observing the hundreds of faces before her.

From the seats close to the orchestra pit, to the seats high in the boxes along the walls, it seemed every seat was filled. Every seat, that was, except for Box 5. The Opera Ghost’s box. That was something Talia was adamant about: Box 5 belonged to the opera ghost, so no one should be sat there. Of course, there had been a few eager, inexperienced stage hands or entitled, high-ranking members of society who thought that was ridiculous. Why should the best seat in the house be left empty for a ghost?

Those people were never found.

Christine never believed in the legend of the opera ghost. She’d always assumed it was something the tired organizers of events at the opera house told newcomers so they wouldn’t meddle. Whatever the chorus girls would hear in the rafters, well, it may have well been mice.

But now, as Christine observed the audience before her, she couldn’t help but notice Box 5. The seats were empty, of course, the box kept impeccably clean. Not a single seat or cobweb out of place. There was something off tonight, though. Maybe it was just because it was her first night performing, maybe it was just jitters, or maybe she was right and there was someone in Box 5! The privacy curtains were blowing slightly, and Christine knew for a fact that there was no draft in any of the boxes. She couldn’t see much else, courtesy of dim lighting and the distance, but Christine’s eyes were drawn to a glowing crimson. What she saw, she didn’t know, and it disappeared as quickly as it had appeared.

She stayed for a moment longer, waiting to see something, anything. The lights dimmed even more then, though, a cue for Christine to get into place and the audience to quiet down. She heard the scurrying footsteps of last-minute additions and changes, the pressured voices of costume designers and singers alike. Christine took a final breath before moving onto the main stage, taking her spot at the very center.

When the curtains rose, Christine tried to keep her cool through the blinding lights and loud applause of the audience. It was different, she realized, to be in front of an audience instead of just observing one. She stood proudly, back straight as Talia had told her, waiting for the orchestra to begin her song. She looked at the boxes again, something deep in her gut drawing her to them again and again. Christine felt her mouth go dry as her eyes moved through the opera house, catching on a curiously familiar flash of violet, and a much more unnervingly familiar flash of crimson.

comments and reblogs appreciated! <3

masterlist

[hallow138]

#mountains #winter #snow #driveby #395north #nevada #california #mood #lastdaysofwinter #solitude #landscape #nature #springstorms #march (at Reno, Nevada) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp_pZthr_6W/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[gigglegirl77]

I’m gonna sleep so good! #nofilter #nightshiftnurse #daysleeper #springstorms https://www.instagram.com/p/Buyf0BmFHqm/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=x1bajclt9ekf