#and the yellow heart is too like blending into the background

[kairiscorner]

guys i had this thought now it's driving me crazy

(reblogs are greatly appreciated, it helps get my content out there! if you guys like what you see, please reblog it too <:D)

imagine watching howl's moving castle with noir.

"a moving castle?" he'd ask himself with a head tilt as he'd adjust his glasses to see the title better. you nodded. "i promise you, it's an amazing film, peter." you'd beam. he'd shrug, and smile. "well, if you say so, love." he'd say as he sits back on the couch as you put the movie on. at first, peter believed this was another, probably childish and whimsical, children's movie that you somehow found nostalgic. he doubted that it was as amazing as you claimed it'd be, but he stood corrected. he was already in awe at the different kinds of colors there were on the screen--all kinds of blues, greens, reds, oranges, and yellows--they all blended beautifully and perfectly, in ways he had never thought would fit together.

he loved the witty dialogue from the characters, his most favorite character being calcifer. "poor little flame," he'd whisper as you two watched the scene where sophie was pressing the pan down on him to cook breakfast. he disliked howl at first, he seemed like quite the womanizer. "oh, if i were sophie's father, i'd never let her leave without me." he'd say as he'd lean forward in his trance as he watched. you giggled as you leaned against him on the couch, his arm wrapped around you as you rested your head against his shoulder. "and why not?" you asked with a smile. peter glanced at you and chuckled. "well... i'd never want my own daughter's heart to be eaten." he said as he adjusted his glasses again.

"you know he doesn't actually consume hearts, he just..." you trailed off as peter held you closer to him. "i know, i know; it's metaphorical. but no matter what..." he said as he placed his hand under your chin and slowly turned your head to look at him as the movie continued playing.

you looked so stunning all the time to peter, every little bit of you shone, literally and figuratively. but here, in the dimly lit living room you two shared--with you looking deep into his mesmerizing eyes--with the light of the film's ending playing out in the background as you two swam in the expanse of each other's eyes for a second or two, you looked breathtaking.

"now... it might just be a movie and all, but... i'd never let anyone eat your heart." he said with a slight chuckle as he took your hands in his, a blush coming on his face as the tips of his ears turned a bright red, along with the bright red and pink on his cheeks. "it sounds weird, i know, but i'd never live with myself if i knew someone else would be capable of stealing you away from me, much more a womanizer like that... howl pendragon. i know how you look at him." he teased as he nuzzled his nose into your cheek.

you chuckled. "he's a drawing, peter..." you responded. "yeah, but... i want to be the guy that makes you feel pretty even on a bad day, a guy who'd make you fall for him over and over and over again even if we've known each other from long ago. the guy who you'd... you know..." he said as he moved his face closer to yours. "...the kind you'd... wanna marry one day." he'd say as your eyelids fluttered, tickling his cheeks.

at that moment, you felt like you were sophie hatter; the humble love interest to the most perfect man in the world, peter parker, who was sort of like howl in the movie. he was witty, he was charming, he was emotional at times... and he loved the real, rawest version of you. even if you believed to yourself you were ugly, you were getting older, that nobody would look at you with such pure love that you didn't believe the world could ever give you--peter was always there to prove you wrong. he was there to prove you were perfect, stunning, and most of all: you were beautiful no matter how old you got, how bad your day was, or how tired you were. you were always, always beautiful to him, that much he knew, and that much would never change--ever.

"i love you, my dearest... you're so beautiful. you're too beautiful for my heart to handle, love..." he'd murmur as you planted a kiss on his soft lips that only wished to kiss and be kissed by your own. be it with lipstick or none, with tears coating them or dry and chapped, be it in the morning, noon, or night--your lips are the only ones he'll love kissing, over and over and over; even when an eternity would pass, he'd still remember and fall in love with the shape, the softness, and the loveliness of your lips--for they are the lips of the most beautiful person peter has ever met, and ever will meet.

"that's my girl." peter muttered as he pulled away, blushing fiercely after you kissed him. "you're red..." you pointed out as you pulled him in for another kiss, with him mumbling out some answer that was pretty much a compliment within a compliment for you. the movie had ended, but your night with peter had just begun.

a/n: gonna leave this here for y'all to be delulu about what you two do after <33

tags !! @thecoolerdor @miguelswifey04 @sabcandoit @binibinileonara @connors-cumslurper @luvstarrstruck @maxoloqy @k4tsu3 @fictarian

[ratsoh-writes]

What can you tell us about the Grillbys? Grillbies?

Besides that fell Grillby is related to his Fell Sans

Here’s all my grillbies in “play”!

Grillby:

the og flame man himself! Grillby is an older flame elemental aged 477 and is from undertale. He stands at 6 feet and has a pretty reddish orange flame.

Grillby is a monster of few words. He’s not shy, just not the talkative type. He does have a lovely laugh though. He’s a bit of a snoop and uses his very impressive poker face to act like he isn’t listening in on his customers conversations lol. If you need good gossip, grillby probably knows all about it already ;)

He owns the bar, grillbys that now has two locations! The main one is in the heart of new ebott of course, and the second is a slightly more classy version in Steeler! While he’s technically the owner, grillby still serves as the bartender in the ebott city location.

Grillby is in fact soulbonded to his handsome soulmate Frosty, a pale blue water elemental. They have a single child together who’s well into her adult years now.

Things he loves: greasy fast food, suits, cute little dogs, playing poker, his soulmate of course, puns, juicy gossip

Felby:

An older flame elemental from underfell, fellby has a purple flame aged exactly 500 this year. He stands at 6’5

Felby is a very grumpy hissy monster. He’s the perfect picture of “get off my lawn!!”. He’s unusually solitary for a monster, prizing his peace. While he is charming when he flirts, he never seems to keep relationships for long. This fact doesn’t seem to bother him though.

Felby had an illegal moonshine bar before the crash, and afterwards, using those skills of his in making unnecessarily strong drinks, he had a fake license made and now runs Fireball, a club only for those wanting to get absolutely wasted. It’s located in Steeler city.

Fellby never soulbonded, but he did have a string of lovers over the years, one of which resulted jn two sons, red and edge. They were a poorly planned attempt by their father(gaster, who carried) to get Felby to commit. Obviously it didn’t work and he doesn’t have any contact with his kids even now

Things he loves: alcohol, hook ups, rap music, leather clothes and furniture, the ocean

Spinby:

Spinby is a middle aged flame elemental, aged 388, from underswap! He has a pale yellow flame and stands at 5’9

Spinby is… he’s something that’s for sure. This guy is totally nuts. Combine a hippie, a circus performer and a child who just drank a 5 hour energy and you have Spinby! He’s incredibly creative and even more bouncy. And he dresses like a walking rainbow lol

Spinby owns an adorable milkshake and donut cafe in mettaland! The whole building is all rainbow pastels and he’s famous for his candy inspired shake flavors! The place is called sugar-spinner!

Spinby has the worst luck with love, but he hasn’t given up on it yet! He’s had a string of brief romances over the years, most of his partners being turned off by his constant cheer. He has an amazing friend group though that keep him down to earth and from getting too lonely

Things he loves: candies, cakes and shakes!, tie dye clothing, disco, bright colors, romance movies

Steallby:

Steallby (and yes that’s his actual name) is a dark blue flame elemental from swapfell. He’s older, aged 490 and stands at 5’10

Steallby is a very anxious monster. He’s quiet around strangers and does his best to blend in with the background, but with friends he’s a bubbly chatty monster. While he can play the nasty aggressive fell monster, he’s really just a shy baby. He’s a sweetie if one gets to know him

Steallby owns a small hole in the wall restaurant specializing in soup and bread! He calls it Soul food, and it’s located in the slums of new ebott

He had used the crash to escape his abusive ex-soulmate the water elemental sickle. He even managed to break the bond before his ex could find him. These days, Steallby has been slowly coming out of his shell and learning to enjoy life again.

Things he loves: fresh baked bread, stainless steal cooking wares, bird feeders, winter foods, snow, soft spoken people

Grills:

Horrortale grillby, he’s ten years older than his counterpart, 487 and stands at 7’1. His flame is slight dulled these days, but is still the same reddish orange

Grills is even quieter than grillby if that’s possible, and somehow is even nosier lol. He’s stopped caring about acting dignified and is quite obvious when he’s eavesdropping. He’s a gentle sort of personality, and despite his scary appearance, many consider him soothing to be around

Grills was hired by grillby when leaving the institution healing the horror monsters after the crash. He works weekends as the bartender on grillbys days off

Grills was extremely lucky to survive the famine with his mate frost (previously known as frosty). They enjoy a slower life together, loving the peace of the surface

Things he loves: any food, his soulmate frost, reality tv, comedy shows, card games

Chillby:

Chillby is a baby blue flamed fire elemental from outertale! She is aged 436 and is 6’2 feet tall

Chillby is a sweet and playful monster who seems to just ooze curiosity. She’s an experimentalist and is all about those new life experiences. She prizes variety and adventure above all else

Chillby is a rather famous food critic in ebott. She’s a great writer with a sensational flair to her reviews, and her good media presence means that cafes and restaurants are actually excited to see her.

Chillby is happily soulbonded to icee and whooly, a grey water elemental and a white earth elemental. The triad all work remotely so they plan all their travels together!

Things she loves: sweet foods, airplanes, zip lines, hiking and her soulmates of course

Farbon:

Farbon is a large flame elemental from drakefell. He has a deep burgundy flame and his natural body shape includes two large flaming dragons wings, although most of the time he concentrates on keeping them in since they always get in the way. He’s aged 501 and stands at 6’8

Farbon is a stoic and dutiful character. He doesn’t have much of a sense of humor but is kind enough to pity laugh even if he doesn’t get the joke lol. He’s also oblivious as hell and will not know if you flirt with him.

He works as a blacksmith, focusing more on precious metals and small dainty creations instead of the more large hardy creations of other drakefell monsters. He’s commissioned pretty often by Ollivander to make decor for his banks.

Farbon against all odds somehow was seduced wedded and bedded by chilbell, a drakeswap water elemental. Chill bell (or chillie as he likes to be called) took one look at Farbon, spent weeks flirting trying to catch his attention, and finally had a breakdown in where he yelled at Farbon for being dumb as a brick, kissed him and asked him on a date all in the same breath. The rest is history and the two are happily soulbonded and have their first child, a toddler flame elemental, together

Things he loves: gold and silver, his soulmate, pretty metal trinkets, spring flowers, potatoes

Dolby:

Dolby is a yellowish orange flame elemental from theatretale. He stands at a shorter 5’6 for an elemental and is aged 399.

Dolby is not one for noise or theatre despite the au he’s from. Instead he’s a man of the written arts. It makes him considered unusual to his fellow theatre monsters, but outside of that au, he’s seen as a rather chill and average guy. He’s a normally quiet monster with a talent for telling jokes at the best time. You never know when he will speak, but when he does it’s hilariously amazing.

Dolby owns a simple cafe in Steeler called cup o’ coal. Its main seller is coffee of course but it also does sandwiches. The cafe is pretty popular with artists and writers because of the book clubs Dolby likes to host there, and the very comfy seating areas

Dolbys soulmate, treble, is a tan earth elemental with a gorgeous deep husky voice. Their childhood sweethearts and trebles voice is the only one that Dolby considers more beautiful than his novels and poetry. They had a child together as well (now an adult himself) and he’s the only “grillby” child to not be another flame elemental. The kid is a handsome grey earth elemental

Things he loves: his soulmate, poetry, coffee, whipped cream, tragedy novels

Phoenix:

Birdfell grillby, he’s a crimson red flame elemental with a massive flaming red pair of wings resembling an albatross! He’s a young 202 and stands at 6’7. He’s bloody gorgeous by monster standards

Phoenix’s wings aren’t the only big thing he has ;). His ego is massive. Being treated like a prince because of his looks has definitely creeped into his personality. Thankfully he’s a sweetie at his core, and while he can come across as big headed and condescending at times, he’s also very generous and friendly with every one around him.

Phoenix is one of ebotts top models. He’s in every years swimsuit edition despite not being a water type monster, and he’s especially famous for this one photo shoot advertising mellow marts new type of cheese by posing on a fur rug and pouring the melted cheese all over his… actually that’s not important. The pictures are a collectors item now though since they’ve been retracted.

Phoenix is surrounded by suitors, but he’s never had eyes for any of them. Or anyone for that matter. He’s just never had an interest in romance. He does adore making friends and keeps the ones that stick around close to his chest.

Things he loves: cheese, showing off his beautiful body, photo shoots, pedicures and manicures, photo shoots with babies and baby animals for those sexy calendars of hot men holding adorable things.

Kelby:

Kelby is a fierce golden flame elemental from fellswap gold. She is aged 477 and stands at 6’6

Kelby is fierce, stern and magnetic to those around her. She’s a monster many look up to and idolize. And she really is all that. She’s an incredibly talented individual who can back her confidence up. Don’t cross her though, her temper burns hot.

She’s the owner and head chef of a prestigious seafood restaurant in Steeler. Her place is a favorite of the royal, Empress and for good reason. Everything tastes heavenly. She runs her kitchen with an iron fist

Kelby always prized her career first, and prided herself as one of the few gold monsters in high society who got there on pure talent. No blackmail needed, a true feat really, so she never had time for romance. She is open to a partner these days though

Things she loves: seafood and meats in general, ballet, weightlifting, champagne and pretty scarves

[ecoamerica]

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[valaruakars]

Prompt 118 with student au viktor? ♥️

Took that to mean pre-act 1 academy students! Hope that works 😉

Tags/Warnings: Viktor x G!N Reader, kinda wholesome make-out, marking, body worship, soft bc I love him

You slip him a note that afternoon in his rush between classes.

Come to my room tonight.

Simple, effective. Nothing too incriminating since you scrawled your name and a reminder of your room number across the bottom.

Though when Viktor turns up at the door still in full uniform, balancing an armful of books for your ‘study date,’ you kick yourself. Drawing him a little heart or a winky face could’ve gone a long way, in hindsight.

The good thing about Viktor though, beyond the way he blushes or the passion with which he speaks, is that he’s perceptive. It takes all of twenty minutes and your hand on his knee to realize that your interest in chemistry isn’t academic.

“You have an exam tomorrow,” he scolds with kiss bitten lips as your fingers work open the knot of his silky white tie.

“Not that interested in being responsible, thanks.” And who is he fooling with his ragged voice and tented slacks? The way his blown, glassy eyes never leave your lips? ”I don’t think you are either.”

His reply is given by the hand on your jaw dragging you back against his mouth; by the slick, breathy cadence of kissing you senseless, long fingers in your hair, on your twin sized bed.

His throat bobs with a heavy swallow when you break to breathe but can’t keep your mouth off him. Panting hot and heavy, your lips trail down his jaw, his carotid where the smell of aftershave is strongest.

It’s not for you.

None of it is, the way he keeps his hair neat or his clothes pressed or, yes, tries overmuch to smell nice. It’s all a means of compensating for his background, for trying to blend in. You wonder, though, if he took it too literally when someone said he reeked of the Undercity in his first year at the Academy.

He doesn’t, for the record. He smells like Viktor, tastes like Viktor, and all that matters is that you want him. He’s worthy of worship, unconditionally so, and you start with his long, lovely neck.

Each kiss lingers longer and deeper, cradling his brilliant head in your hand. It’s when you bite with gentle, bruising care that he remembers himself, though.

“S-Stop leaving marks on my neck,” he says, easing away. Lets you see how his face is flushed and you’ve disheveled his dark hair. “I, eh, have a presentation first thing in the morning.”

Your finger hooks the edge of his collar. With a gentle tug, you ask, “Then can I leave marks anywhere below the neck?”

He licks his lips and lowers his eyes. “If you wish…” Shy, because you’ve never seen him naked.

But you’re going to.

How else will you color him purple and blue, yellow at the edges, in the bruising shades of your affection? How else will you worship him in full?

[astranite]

Pride, Paint and Rainbow Pins!

@thunder-pride fic for Virgil’s day! (a little late but technically still on today’s theme!)

Pride! Fluff! Virgil being artistic!! Demisexuality and gayness!!!

Please say hi, I’m new here!

https://archiveofourown.org/works/47711119 (I’m AstraNite on AO3 too if you want to read it there!)

Now without further ado-

----------

Virgil wondered whether there was such a thing as too many pride pins.

He fumbled the backing of another and creatively swore as he poked the sharp pin into his thumb. The things he did for art.

He’d only taken the numerous pins off of his denim jacket to protect them from getting covered in paint but maybe he should’ve chanced it with the stray art supplies. Last week’s tonne of concrete dropped on him in the exosuit had hurt less. Virgil frowned at the bead of blood that welled up and sucked it away revealing the tiny pinprick wound. His medic knowledge told him he’d live. He pouted, probably.

The last pin went on one-handedly, with not inconsiderable difficulty. Or Virgil was being dramatic about it, could be either. Gords wasn’t the only one in the family with that skill.

Tubes of fabric paints were scattered across his desk, like a particularly colourful minefield. He replaced them in their packet, neatly lined up by gradient. The brushes were already washed and drying by the sink. Virgil never considered a project truly finished until he’d put his tools away.

With the pins reattached to the front panels of his jacket, he flipped it over to show the newly painted back piece. What had once been plain blue denim was now covered shoulder to shoulder in art.

Thunderbird Two soared upwards in all her painted glory, the final details just dried. She was steadfast determination from nose to wingtips, green and majestic.

However it was the background of rainbow sky Virgil was most proud of. Red to orange to yellow, green, blue, purple, blending and swirling together. Fluffy white clouds, then a sprinkling of stars finished it off. The colours were nearly pastel in hue but somehow fiercer, forming a kaleidoscopic sunset.

A rainbow, all joy and hope and Pride.

Virgil swung his jacket over his shoulders, then stood in front of his mirror to admire his handy work. See Scott, he didn’t wear flannel all of the time, just most, because hey it was comfy.

After some twisting around to see what the new art looked like on, Virgil stood there grinning because it was exactly as amazing as he’d hoped.

He fussed with a few pins that weren’t sitting right to his artist’s eye, then turned away from the mirror to look down at himself.

Coloured enamel and shiny metal caught the light, rounded button badges nestled between.

A rainbow gay flag and demisexual flag pin sat pride, get it— pride, of place near the lapel.

Over his heart lay his first badge, an artist’s palettle swirled with ‘love is love,’ which he’d found in a gutter with a broken pin when he’d been sixteen and lost. His teenage self had never imagined how far he would come.

The green ‘he/him’ pronouns pin was a few years old, worn in solidarity with the red one Alan had gotten when he’d first come out as trans. A MLM gay flag in its green and blue was next to it. The tiny astronaut waving a demisexual flag came from John’s packet of space themed aro and ace pins. A rainbow frog had been gifted to him by Gordon who had its panromantic counterpart.

The ‘queer engineers’ badge Virgil had designed himself, on request from Brains. A green carnation turned up one day after he’d been admiring Kayo’s violet pin. The rainbow Thunderbird Two pin was his newest addition, as this year everyone had convinced Scott that International Rescue pride merchandise was a priority. Scott had been first in line for what they nicknamed the Thunder-Bi One badge, sporting it on his flight jacket along with his Aro-plane pin.

A progress pride flag shone for its inclusivity.

Wrapped in trans flag colours and rainbows, a circular badge read, ‘You’re safe with me.’

Virgil had amassed quite a collection of pride pins over the years, so many cool designs by amazing artists in the community.

They were more than the pieces of metal and plastic they were made from. They were a way of showing who he was and what he believed in. A celebration. A remembrance of their history. A part of their community.

They represented Pride.

So, no. There wasn’t a such thing as too many pride pins.

After all, what else would go with his rainbow bootlaces?

[shed0kryptz]

hi guyz !! im makin a bit of a different post today. i wanted to share some album/ep covers that ive been thinking about recently cuz album art is so cool + i love all of these artists dearly. enjoy my rambles :D

Sign - Nobukazu Takemura (2000)

my pfp !!!! i discovered the title track sign from the album hoshi no koe, but this is the record it originally debuted in! takemura is a japanese electronic musician who makes a lot of experimental music, and this album is no different. however, it has sort of a.. nintendo vibe to it? it’s difficult to describe, but it’s super fun !! i love the album art as well and the rhythmic motion of the building. the little music note guy has my whole heart too, theyre jus a little goober <3

Paraiso - Haruomi Hosono and The Yellow Magic Band (1978)

i wouldve put this in yellow but there is no option. anywayz this is a interesting album. ive recently started listening to hosono’s music and i enjoy it a lot !!! hosono house is fire, but this one is also good ! the cover art is what initially led me to listening to this, i love the beach atmosphere and the sky as space. and the little bubbles that have random monuments in them. and the palm trees n plants and agh. it’s delightfully surreal and im here for it !!!

S-F-X - Haruomi Hosono (1984)

look hosono you’re awesome and i love your early stuff so far. but i could not get into this ep at all. might try again tho !! but it’s really a shame because the cover is awesome. i love the distortion on the face and the pops of pink and yellow against the teal background. it’s very pleasing to look at and it’s been floating in my mind for awhile. very futuristic lookin !

Sail - Masakatsu Takagi (2003)

I AM THE ULTIMATE TAKAGI FAN #1 anyway. this album is so so lovely and silly. it has a special place in my heart now fr. the best way to describe it is animal crossing/picopop(??) type music. some of it reminds me of kero kero bonito’s music too. idk genres are weird !! point is it’s very upbeat and nostalgic. a few tracks are more somber sounding, especially rama. but i love the album art of this one, it’s like something you’d see in a dream or a childhood memory. i love the watercolor texture and the blend of pastel colors too!! and how it looks as if it was combined from multiple layers, as in each piece of the figure was made separately. overall takagi is a genius and this album SLAPS

Keep It Unreal (10th Anniversary) - Mr. Scruff (2009)

mr. scruff makes very cheeky and silly electronic music, but occasionally he drops an absolute banger. nah fr all of his stuff is good, some of it is just more “serious” than others. but i appreciate his sense of humor and the beats he makes ! this album of his is a great listen, but i especially love the cover. the og album cover is mounted up in the corner while these little bean guys are celebrating. truly a work of art. his other album ninja tuna also shares a similar art style !! very goofy <3

A Wizard, a True Star - Todd Rundgren (1973)

do i gotta say anything even. this is just a masterpiece of a cover. there is so much going on in the best way possible. i love the incorporation of the geometric shapes. the trippy visuals. it screams 70s. not to mention this album is fire. international feel is so good !!!

Desire, I Want to Turn Into You - Caroline Polachek (2023)

PHOTOGRAPHY JUMPSCARE ! i recently go into caroline polachek and OML where have you been all my life. this album is pure pop bliss and her vocals are so so good. sunset and fly to you are especially good oug. the album cover in particular is very simple in concept but it’s executed so well. the lighting, the sand, the bus chairs, her outfit?? absolutely stunning. this woman oozes creativity fr.

Dreams - Gabor Szabo (1968)

i could not find a better quality image of this one but holy molay this is a great jazz fusion record. is it fusion? idk anymore. but this is a great album and the art is just. mwah. i love all of the intricate details and the flowers. it’s just gorgeous !!! what else can i say !

Dead but Dreaming - vivivivivi (2023)

final one !!! vivivivivi is honestly super underrated, though her song credits song for my death has 8 million views on yt. anyway, this was a pretty recent album from her and it’s very cool !!! def gives the vibes of an rpg. i love the album cover tho!! the artist did a tremendous job with it, i love the overgrowth of the flowers and the shading. it also suits the tracks well !!

[lady-arryn]

Hey!! So for the blending process ask, could you pls explain how you made the first gif in this set: https://www.tumblr.com/lady-arryn/709147925011365888/blood-in-the-wine-aurora-alicent-hightower ? And the last one in this set: https://www.tumblr.com/lady-arryn/705825404701769728/her-heart-was-a-secret-garden-and-the-walls-were ? (Also which font did you use in the text: “secret garden”?). I’m curious as to how you coloured with two different shades the gifs and the blending part ofc. Thank you in advance!! And sorry to bother, I really appreciate you taking the time to read this🥹🫶🏼 Ps: Pls don’t feel pressured to answer this right away, I know these things can be time consuming. Hope you have a great week🤍

Hi! I don't have the files for them saved and I don't remember the exact steps, but I'll try my best to recreate them for a similar result!

I started with putting all my gifs onto one canvas. The scene with small Otto holding Alicent's hands is on the bottom, then Emily's Alicent and then Olivia's on the top. I used lighten to blend them and that's how it looks. I added color balance for the top scene to make it match the rest in being very warm and yellow.

Then I added two separate layers with just some black brush under their faces to hide the background. And then you can see I added three layers where I painted over the top, Emily's face and the right side. The first layer is set on screen 15%, the other two are soft light, but on different opacity and the one on top I blurred a lot more than the middle one.

Then two more layers on top of the gifs, but under general coloring. I basically wanted to make the left side of the gif darker (so black brush with soft light) and then green layer set to multiply to add a bit more color.

And I think that was pretty much it!

Of course there's more to be done here, adjusting the coloring, adding more layers with soft light/screen, just to make the gif look smoother.

The next one! I loaded all three scenes I wanted to use for this gif onto one canvas and I put the one of them fighting at the bottom. Put my regular coloring on top of everything. Added a black and white layer and some curves for brightness for the bottom scene. I set the two other scenes to lighten blending and erased the parts in the middle.

I know Alicent's gif is different than the one in the linked set, but I couldn't find the exact scene. So it's not looking as good, because it doesn't blend as well, it's too dark, but it's ok, it's just for tutorial purposes and the steps would be the same for a better scene.

Then I added two layers on top of the black and white gif. That's where the color comes from. Layer 13 is set on multiply and low opacity and the Layer 13 copy is soft light (as you can see). For the final result I would definitely play more with those layers, maybe add another one with screen or another soft light, as long as I feel it's needed!

And on the top of everything I added two layers with the same colors, but I painted over the bottom parts of the gif. I could add more of the same if needed, if I saw that there's not enough color etc.

You can also see that I put the scene of them fighting on top, because I wanted to make it pop a little more. I added the black and white layer plus some levels to make it darker. It's not really a big difference and I don't know if I actually did that in the linked gif. But I often do copy bottom layers and add them on top, often erasing small parts of them, just to make the blending look a little smoother!

At that point I would color the two faces, add more vibrance or less (like I would do for Rhaenyra here, she looks way to orange). Maybe add more soft layer layers with the green and pink, adjusting as I go.

As for the font, its Monabelia. There are two layers there, the first is set to exclusion, the one on top is color - it gives that see through effect. I rotated it a little -it's normally not crooked. I added another text layer underneath but with the green, to give it a shadow.

And that's the result! It looks really rough and I would never post it like that xD I would definitely adjust the coloring, maybe add more layers, maybe play more with the colors on the font, just some final touches!

And that was pretty much my process for these gifs! It does vary tho, how I blend and it's often a case by case situation, but in general I like to put a lot of layers with soft light/multiply/screen for the color (and put them in different places in my psd, some on the bottom, some in the middle, some on top). And blending hugely depends on the scenes chosen and I often find that it's what's doing the most work, just pairing what looks good!

I really hope that any of this was helpful <3

[ecoamerica]

Watch the 2024 American Climate Leadership Awards for High School Students now: https://youtu.be/5C-bb9PoRLc

The recording is now available on ecoAmerica's YouTube channel for viewers to be inspired by student climate leaders! Join Aishah-Nyeta Brown & Jerome Foster II and be inspired by student climate leaders as we recognize the High School Student finalists. Watch now to find out which student received the $25,000 grand prize and top recognition!

[thatonesongyouretryingtoremember]

El prom dress post

So the El prom dress comes from this post by dis-a-pointment which also has a photo of the inspiration dress so take a look at that and also look at dis-a-pointment 's blog bc it's really cool 😎

Basically red and white are both colored that represent El in different ways unlike blue which represents Mike, so if there's gonna be a Snow Ball parallel, she might wear those colors instead. In the post above she's also gong to prom with Max which is for fun(but would be cool in canon too).I made three versions of the background. One is transparent, one is colorpicked from the photo, and one is a screenshot from the show+ a black gradient.

[ID: three images of a digital drawing of El Hopper from Stranger Things from the waist up at a head-on angle. She is wearing a red dress with a sweetheart neckline and puffy sleeves. A panel on the left of the bodice is a lightly deeper red and a had a vine outlined on it in a curling, almost heart- shaped form. The right/ majority of the bodice is brighter red and gathered slightly at the seam much like the skirt. The triangle waistline has a thin white ribbon and the left side of it has a white bow. She is wearing white silk elbow length gloves and a white pearl choker necklace. Her hair is in short curious reminiscent of season two and she has blotchy red eyeshadow much like in season two, but this time matching her new dress. The leftmost image is set against a transparent backdrop. The second image has a flat maroon backdrop. The rightmost image has a photo background of the gym doors from the Snow Ball scene. : end ID]

Some part of the art I wanted to talk about:

All white elements are filled in with a very light gray. The gloves and pearls have a yellow highlight and blue shadow.

All of the red colors are from the photo

I specifically chose to copy that original snow ball photo but with two key changes besides her outfit and makeup

Her hair in my drawing is kind of styled in bangs/fringe to mimic her Season four hairstyle since she seemed to really like it AND because the original photo had her hair swirled in the front- like Superman. The only person who compares El to Superman is Mike, specifically in the context of their relationship, and unlike the Snow Ball, prom is about El (/elmax for the sake of hc). I also changed her expression from a sort of shocked look to a smile since I think he original reaction was partially due to being around so many people and not having to hide.

The reference photo of the red dress has a bodice panel with embossed or embroidered shiny vines and floral patterns, so the way I added that to the dress and changed it to not look out of place in a cartoony style was to have a larger vine which was colored to blend in with the fabric. I mightn't have bothered, but the vines reminded me of the Upside-Down, which I just thought was cool.

I also have the sketch on paper

Where she originally had a bow in her hair, which I only didn't add by accident💀. Besides that, O didn't change anything, but I like the sleeves outline better in pencil. The erased lines were the original sleeve placement until I realized the sleeves only have one point of attachment.

I made some thumbnail sketches of elmax at prom as well

Max has trousers in one and a skirt in the other bc I couldn't decide.. here's her sketch plus a version with a some quick color on it (colorpicked from El), the colored version has a skirt one and a trousers one. I thought she'd wear a suit bc it can be more simple than an elaborate prom dress and still come off as formal, plus she wrote a sweater to Show Ball. I added a little braid in her hair too for fun :)

[onessinfra1]

The Psychology of Interior Design: How Colors Impact Mood

In the realm of interior design, color stands as a powerful tool, capable of shaping the atmosphere and influencing the emotions of those who inhabit a space.  Oness Infra has one of the leading Interior Designers in Indore. We make living Spaces more beautiful with our Creative and Luxurious Interiors with our Creative Team of Interior Designers and Architects, we worked with ultimate perfection. Whether It is a Villa, Bungalow, Row House or a Commercial Office Our Interior Designers work on the Extreme details of the Projects by delivering Living Spaces with Utmost Quality of work. Just as music can evoke a range of feelings, from joy to sorrow, so too can colors subtly orchestrate the mood within a room. Understanding the psychology of color is essential for interior designers seeking to create spaces that resonate with their clients' needs and desires.

The Emotional Spectrum of Color

Each color on the spectrum carries its own unique emotional resonance, evoking distinct feelings and influencing behavior. Let's delve into the psychology of primary and secondary colors to gain a deeper understanding of their impact:

Red: The fiery passion of red stimulates the senses, igniting feelings of excitement, energy, and vitality. However, oversaturation with red can induce anxiety and aggression, making it a color best used sparingly or as an accent.

Orange: A blend of red's energy and yellow's optimism, orange radiates warmth, enthusiasm, and creativity. It's a color that encourages social interaction and can promote feelings of comfort and happiness.

Yellow: The cheerful sunshine of yellow exudes positivity, optimism, and intellectual stimulation. It's a color that enhances concentration and alertness, making it well-suited for study areas or workspaces.

Green: Rooted in nature, green symbolizes harmony, balance, and growth. It promotes feelings of relaxation, tranquility, and freshness, making it a popular choice for bedrooms and spa-like environments.

Blue: The serenity of blue evokes feelings of calmness, trust, and stability. It's a color that lowers heart rate and blood pressure, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Purple: The aura of royalty and sophistication, purple embodies luxury, mystery, and creativity. It's a color that inspires deep thought and reflection, making it ideal for meditation spaces or quiet retreats.

Harnessing Color Psychology in Design

Armed with the knowledge of color psychology, interior designers can thoughtfully curate spaces that foster desired emotions and enhance the overall experience of a room. Here are some key considerations when incorporating color into interior design:

Purpose of the Space: Consider the primary function of the room. Is it a space for relaxation and tranquility, or does it require stimulation and energy? Select colors that align with the desired mood and atmosphere.

Target Audience: Understand the preferences and sensitivities of the individuals who will occupy the space. Consider their age, cultural background, and personal tastes when choosing color palettes.

Balance and Harmony: Strive for a harmonious blend of colors that complement each other without overwhelming the senses. Utilize color theory to create visually appealing combinations that enhance the overall aesthetic.

Lighting Considerations: The interplay of natural and artificial light significantly impacts the perception of color. In dimly lit spaces, opt for lighter hues to create a sense of spaciousness. In well-lit areas, bolder colors can add depth and vibrancy.

Cultural Associations: Colors often carry cultural connotations that can influence perception. Be mindful of local color associations and use them appropriately to avoid potential misinterpretations.

Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the choice of colors should reflect the personal preferences and style of the client. Collaborate closely with them to understand their vision and create a space that resonates with their individuality.

Conclusion

The psychology of color plays a profound role in interior design, influencing our moods, behaviors, and perceptions of space. By understanding the emotional resonance of colors and applying them thoughtfully, interior designers can create harmonious and inspiring environments that enhance the lives of those who inhabit them. Oness Infra, with its team of experienced interior designers, is committed to harnessing the power of color psychology to craft spaces that not only look beautiful but also evoke positive emotions and enhance well-being.

[j-graysonlibrary]

The Xiang Chronicles: Book Two Chapter 30

Title: The Xiang Chronicles: Book Two

Author: Jay Grayson

Word Count: 98k

Genres: Fantasy, adventure, drama, LGBT+

Available on: my website

Synopsis: With another Xiang in the mix, for the first time in history, Pangu decides to reevaluate his methods and his place in the world. Along with taking his little sister Heidi as his last disciple, he also chooses to take the more political path in his efforts to end the discord throughout the land—particularly within Terra. (And gaining favor from the handsome Lord of Ultimos does not hurt.)

Heidi butts heads with everyone in the group, save Raine, and tensions are higher than ever. There are failed love confessions, in-group fighting, and demons from Kira’s past but that all comes to a head when they meet a servant of Shakti who is more than what she seems.

Could it be that the Mistresses of Shadow are more nuanced than previously believed? Or that the strict dichotomy between light and dark are, perhaps, a touch exaggerated? That and more begin to plague Pangu’s mind and his faith wavers…

Full chapter 30 under the cut

Chapter XXX:

The worship hall was filled with bodies, more than the building had probably ever seen. Even though other weddings had been held in the very same room, Pangu doubted it had ever been this full. Witnesses sat, shoulder to shoulder, each wearing almost matching, eager grins.

He could not linger on any one person and, instead, glanced to his right side at the majestic statue there. Already, Pangu stood upon a platform, lifting him higher than the crowd but the statue of Tiandi rose higher still, cementing in the status difference between them. An arch swooped over his head and was decorated with bright, vibrant vines and inset with jewels.

Everything was white or gold with some pale yellow to blend the two. Pangu feared he actually camouflaged into the background too well and only his makeup, bright red eye liner and lipstick, could distinguish him from the decorations all around him.

When the bells began to chime, Pangu’s heart started to beat even louder, pounding into his eardrums. The witnesses all stood, clapping and cheering as if they were watching the most important event of their lives.

And, to their credit, it was an unprecedented display. 

From one of the side halls, behind the seats of the witnesses, came the bride’s entourage. Pangu had been left alone on his platform as the disciples had run back to join Merra and, now, they were escorting her to him. Gongji and Kubja each had one of her arms looped with theirs and, in front of them, Bofu and Ashoka threw white petals into the air to line the Xiang’s path.

Once they were at the platform, they split off and Pangu was able to, finally, get a good look at Merra. If he had been dressed as the King of the world, she was the Queen of the cosmos. Pangu did not think it possible but he felt plain in her presence.

Her dress, white as snow with thick, gold trimming, was clearly cut and sewn just for her. Gems lined her belt and her fingers were crowded with rings, each probably symbolizing something different. The train of her dress must have been half the length of the room and most of it stayed in the aisle even when she was up on the platform with Pangu.

The headdress expertly weaved into her hair was a head taller than she was and the golden rods fanned out, away from her head, creating a halo like sunrays. Similar to Pangu’s head piece, there were many hanging chains and jewels but, of course, Merra’s was far more endowed.

Her makeup, as well, was more dramatic and it gave her the appearance of a goddess, come to the mortal realm to bless the humans.

She took a deep breath and caught Pangu’s gaze before smiling wide. Her eyes were less enthused than she let on and, within them, Pangu found a warning.

Smile, they told him, smile as if this is the happiest day of your life.

Pangu’s stomach twisted but he did as he was silently asked. He pulled his lips back and smiled as he looked at her and he hoped it was convincing enough.

***

It seemed as though the streets were empty and everyone was at the temple. That worked out well for the escapees, for the time being but, ultimately, their goal was the temple itself.

Still, they kept low as they ran through the streets and alleyways leading to their destination. Occasionally, a rogue civilian or even a patrolling soldier came into view but one of them would take care of it and they would move on as a group.

The closer they got, the louder the bells rang and the more voices could be heard cheering. The disciples, Viren, and Oli exchanged glances once they hit a crossroads.

“We will need a quick escape,” Baiya stated what was on everyone’s mind.

“I can try to make a miasma portal,” Kira suggested though he did not sound sure of himself which made everyone else’s faith waver as well.

“It is a bit dangerous to just try,” Raine replied with a frown. He tried to focus on the present situation but he could not get the image of Kira kissing the guard out of his mind.

Luckily, Baiya took over his thought for him. “You have only done it once, on accident, and none of us went through it. I think we should try a more tried and true approach.”

“Horses?” Heidi offered with a shrug.

“There are some large carriages,” Viren spoke up and pointed west, “A few should be in a stable further in town. We should all be able to fit into one but it will be cramped.”

“That works,” Kira said and nodded, “You and Oli can fetch one and meet us outside of the temple.”

Heidi stepped to Viren’s side. “I will go with them to protect them.” She glanced between the other three disciples and swallowed. “You guys get my brother.”

They nodded, refocused and reinvigorated. There could be no mistakes—their lives and Pangu’s freedom was on the line.

***

“This world is on a tipping point, between a glorious reverence for Tiandi and a descent into faithlessness,” Merra spoke as she held onto Pangu’s hands. Although she was, technically, addressing the crowd, she was staring at him as she said, “One simple selfish act is all it takes to push the scale into the wrong direction.”

Of course, Pangu said nothing. He was not to speak until he swore himself to her. All of the fluff around the ceremony and the set up for the vows were all to be spoken by Merra herself.

One of the disciples surely could have done it but the new Xiang insisted.

“We stand here today as a reminder of all that is good and just in this great world,” she smiled as she continued, “Our very existence—two Xiangs at the same junction in history—was previously unheard of but Tiandi answered the call and need of His people. And now, in this room, with Him as our witness, we give to the world what they need just as He does. What the people need is hope and joy and what is more hopeful, more joyous, than the beginning of a lifelong commitment in marriage?

Men and women come together in this sacred bond to pledge themselves not just to each other but to Tiandi as His creations. We honor Him with our bonds and revere Him with our adherence to His laws. As Xiangs, we normally would be forbidden from wedding but this ceremony is not out of a selfish need for personal love. This binding is to shout to the world—We are Xiang! We are joined! We are stronger than ever before!”

Pangu did not blink but his hands gave him away. His fingers twitched and Merra gripped him harder, as if to hold him in place.

She slowly shook her head as she said, “Shakti may try but she will fail to break us. Our union, blessed by Tiandi, is stronger than any darkness in the cosmos. So, let us now pledge ourselves to one another, with His divine approval, and shine our light unto the world.”

That was his cue. Pangu gulped and steeled himself as much as he could. “Merra, the Xiang gifted to me by Tiandi…I will follow your lead.”

Merra nodded with her lips upturned. “Very well. Do you swear to take me as your bride? To care for me as a husband would for his wife? To protect our love of both each other and Tiandi, until your dying breath?”

Pangu opened his mouth but shut it again, earning a nasty glare. He tried again and only managed to make a croaked sound come out of his throat before the doors to the temple were thrown open.

Both he and Merra snapped their heads to the side while the crowd stared and whispered—a mixture of shock and confusion. And, while Pangu was shocked, he was not at all confused.

“Stop the wedding!” Kira shouted as he, Raine, and Baiya ran down the aisle.

Baiya stretched his hand out. “Pangu!”

He lurched toward him but Merra’s arm held him in place. Her disciples hurried forward, all ready to fight but she did not command them. She kept her arm out but walked to the edge of the platform to look down at the trio.

“You will not ruin this glorious ceremony…” her words were spoken slowly and quietly, keeping the witnesses from hearing.

“Too late,” Kira replied with a smirk.

“Then you leave me no choice.” Merra backed away and the air beside her shimmered. Pangu immediately tensed, recalling the last time he saw such a phenomenon. His disciples had all been drugged when it happened so they witnessed the summoning of the dragon for the first time.

Raine’s brow rose—he had always wanted to see a dragon but now it seemed far less exciting. His heart beat wildly and he planted his feet firmly on the ground.

“You will really attack us? With all of these people in the room?” Kira raised a solid point and even stepped backward, putting more of the guests in the crossfire. “They could be hurt…this is not very Xiang-like if you ask me.”

Merra snarled but did, in fact, dismiss the dragon. Her disciples, however, were not ready to stand down. Ashoka sparked a fire in her hand and the rest took a fighting stance.

Kira let out a breathy laugh before using his trump card.

The corners of the hall were the first to go dark but, soon, the entire room was under nightfall, or so it looked. Black mist lipped up around Kira’s feet and slowly began to whip up around his sides. His skin paled as the miasma poured out of him, threatening to engulf them all.

“Stay back,” he barked, “Or I will unleash every bit of miasma I have in me.”

The fire died in the disciples and they all looked to Merra for guidance. She clenched her jaw and balled her hands into fists. Meanwhile, the crowd screamed and attempted to flee, running for the door only to find it blocked by thick, black tendrils that none of them were willing to touch. Most ended up cowering under their seats, getting as low to the ground as possible.

Pangu frowned and took opportunity in the chaos to climb up on the arch over the statue of Tiandi’s head. It gave him the highest vantage point and the best place to project his voice out into the room.

“Calm down!” he yelled, “Kira will not hurt you!”

There was still crying and murmuring but it died down some. A few faces, pale with fear, looked up at him.

Once he was sure he had their attention, he continued, “This marriage is a sham! I was forced into appearing before you today by Xiang Merra! She threatened me with the lives of my disciples and I had no choice! She is not the great unifier she pretends to be—you know this is true—she led the takeover of the city!”

Her eyes blazed with hate as she glared up at him. Yet she and her disciples were helpless to stop him since Kira’s miasma was inches from latching onto them. If they made even a small movement, he would surely end them.

Pangu took a deep breath. Really, he wanted to scream at the top of his lungs but he kept a calmer tone as he explained, “I am deemed to be against Tiandi because I wish for peace; because I want to see the people of this world live and be happy. Truth be told, some of the rules of Tiandi…I believe they are designed to suppress man—to keep him submissive and blind! If I…” his voice faltered and he had to clear his throat to try again, “If I am to be completely honest with you all, if I was able to, I would not be marrying Merra on this day. I would be marrying a person of my choice…a man…who holds my heart.”

His gaze shifted down, toward Baiya.

It was a short look but he hoped he understood what he meant. He concluded, “Love is not a sin and neither is peace.”

The crowd gave no reaction, not even a whisper was shared between witnesses. Pangu worried his words were lost on them but he would not take back what he said. Even if they fell on deaf ears, he needed to announce them. He needed the world to know.

With a leap into the air, the crowd finally responded with a collective gasp. Pangu slowed his descent some, with the wind, but he fell into Raine’s open arms. As soon as he settled in his hold, Raine and Baiya turned to leave and Kira sucked back all of the miasma, clearing their path to the exit.

Baiya threw back one fireball toward Merra, for good measure, as they escaped from the temple. The adrenaline was still pumping but excitement started to take precedence.

Pangu grinned as he looked between them. “I cannot believe you crashed the wedding!”

Kira shot him a grin. “I have always wanted to do that!”

“Great speech, by the way,” Raine added as he smiled down at him and gave him a squeeze.

He could not help but chuckle. “Thanks.”

“The carriage should be ahead,” Baiya stated, leading the group. He kept checking backward, making sure they were not being followed while also looking ahead to search for Viren.

Down the next street, a carriage drawn by two horses came nearly crashing to a stop. Viren and Oli held the reins and sat atop the cart. The door on the side was flung open to reveal Heidi.

“Hurry!” she shouted and waved them all inside.

Baiya slid in beside her and Raine brought Pangu in, followed by Kira. There was only space for four people, facing each other, so Pangu rested on Raine’s lap as Viren and Oli whipped the reins and bolted down the road.

“Where are we going?” Pangu asked, attempting to get comfortable. Raine’s armor was not the most pleasant thing to sit on so Kira pulled him over to sit with him instead.

His Terran disciple also answered him as he secured his arms around his waist. “Just running until we are sure we have not been followed. Then we’ll discuss plans.”

Even just leaving the city was a relief despite the stress of the bumpy and erratic ride. Viren and Oli both shouted, urging the horses to run with everything they had. Heidi and Baiya peered through the curtain at the back of the carriage to scout for any pursuing soldiers but, so far, they saw none.

The carriage slowed down a little but kept at a brisk pace. Heidi turned around and sighed, finally relaxing and really looking at her brother.

She snorted out a laugh. “You look ridiculous.”

Pangu laughed as well. “What, you do not like it?”

“Terrible situation aside, I think it suits you,” Kira argued and gave him a light squeeze.

“You smell interesting,” Raine commented as he helped Pangu stretch his legs across, onto his lap.

“Oh, it is these,” Pangu responded and pulled out one of the bags of herbs, tossing it to the carriage floor. “I am full of them.”

He fished out a few more as he got more comfortable—or as comfortable as he could get—and he finally looked across from him, at Baiya. He met his eyes but could hardly hold his gaze for longer than a second.

“You do look nice,” Baiya said, quietly.

Pangu knew his face flushed but he was happy.

[talkingtothetallman]

20 Seconds of Courage

"When we had come to Jerusalem, the brothers received us gladly. On the following day Paul went in with us to James, and all the elders were present. After greeting them, he related one by one the things that God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry. And when they heard it, they glorified God." - Acts 21:17-20a

I read these verses this verses before work this morning. All my life I've been told how important it is to always be in the Word, because it is through it that we learn how God wants us to live. Not only that, but it is a beautiful showcase of how the Lord has proven His faithfulness to His people.

I think one of the most sanctifying things the Lord Jesus does through His Word is conviction. You know the feeling. The prick of guilt that wells up in your heart. A sense of filthiness covers your heart and your realize... "man, Lord I'm sorry. Forgive me, I need to change."

That's the case with the above verses. And to clarify, these verses are just the foundation of my conviction; they don't tell the entire story.

The thing that caught my eye was how fluidly and almost casually Paul, James, and the elders, glorified the Lord together and counted the ways God had worked in the ministry. I read that and thought, "Huh, you know I only kinda struggle to be open about God's blessings to believers I'm good friends with, but dang doing it with people I barely know? Man that shows how strong their faith was."

True, Christians have the common bond of Christ. Heck, it's even in the name Christian. But something about being completely open with a stranger about your faith is borderline daunting. I know I'm not the only one who feel this way. But as I was pondering this on my route, the thought crossed my mind: "If I saw a guy in a 22 hat who was clearly a Joey Logano fan, I'd be all about talking to him about all things Logano... but would I be like that about Jesus to a person who clearly was a Christian?"

The situation: a stranger, one with a bright yellow and red 22 hat, and the other with a t-shirt that says, "Jesus. Died, risen, returning" with a cross on the background. Who would I talk to? I'm ashamed of what my answer might be. Why is that? I thought of a few reasons:

1: I don't believe in Jesus.

2: The Lord's power hasn't been made manifest in my life.

3: I don't care.

4: I'm scared. Utterly filled with the fear of man.

I know for a fact that it's not the first two. And yet the second two, they seem to be a good blend of how I feel. For one, the senseless fear of man that Satan so dearly loves fills me with dread, one that says maybe I'll look dumb, or maybe I'll offend that person somehow, or even maybe disagree with them on some theological issues and things will get weird. But the third one is really where the conviction happens. I don't always feel like I care enough about how the Lord has changed my life to proclaim the name of Jesus. But why is that?

I guess my heart is just that hard. And good golly I hate that. I hate that I minimize my sin to the point that I forget how much it really cost to pay for it. Shame on me! How badly I want to be a soul on fire, not caring for one moment what a customer on route thinks of me, what a coworker might say, or what a fellow Christian might think. Sure, there are things to say for specific times, but why am I not shouting from the roof-tops, "Jesus saved me, and He can save you too! He's done so many wonderful things in my life and He can in yours!" Even now as I type this, I almost cringe thinking about how filled with fear I am.

But my heart is filled with a hardness that can only be dissolved by prayer and stepping out in trust. I think that's the big thing; trusting in the Lord's guidance. You know, there's movie quote that just popped into my mind that seems applicable:

“You know, sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage. Just literally twenty seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.” 

That's it. Is it Christian? No. But it true? I would say so. Isn't 20 seconds enough time to proclaim Jesus? It's convicting, isn't it? Do you do that? I sure don't, and I wish I did. Now does that mean that you need to fill every 20 second gap with the Gospel? No, of course not. But are you ready to share the Gospel with someone? Are you ready to give God the glory in all situations? Lord, I'm trying! Thank you for your grace when I fail!

"Heavenly Father, help us, especially me, to be faithful to You as You have been to your people. Grant us softened hearts that fully desire and intend to share Your love, mercy, and salvation with a world who needs it. Open our eyes that we may see how You are working in our lives, and bless us with boldness to proclaim that with the world. Amen."

[smollestskele]

Slight spoilers for Slow Damage

So I just drew up a Slow Damage tattoo because I need to get one, I relate way to fucking much to Towa not to. Plus I already have the Morphine logo from dmmd, gotta keep it up lol.

And omg I'm so excited. I don't draw amazingly, but I can draw decent enough to make a good torn-open vivisection scar, sutures, and sand apparently! :D

I had my heart set on one of his scars but it seemed too on the nose to do a scar tattoo. And I had the idea of the pic of him peering through a wound sutures up from interrogations- you know the one, when you find the scar and rip it open for the character to face head-on.

Anyways, I was like "ok, so I can combine that with his vivisection scar. But wtf do I put in the open tear?" I need this to look less faux pas, more individualized.

I could go hourglass, the rose emblem, but ultimately I like the idea of sand. The whole "the heart is soft like a fistful of sand" quote, and it'd be right near my actual heart anyways. Idk if I want the sand black or beige, but it'll fall thick down the center and pool a bit at the bottom on the opening, almost like an hourglass. Plus UV ink is a thing now, I can make it literally fucking glow!

I'm also gonna have sutures holding it together, probably in multiple, character-smoke-related colors: Taku with Orange, Rei with yellow, etc ya get it. OR just in Towa's suggested smoke color, that deep scarlet pink.

I'm unsure yet what I want the inside of the tear to look like yet, behind the sand, but I'll think on it some more. Probably smoke. Maybe I should make the sutures Towa's color, the sand black, and the background in rainbow-y smoke, blended together like it appears to Towa in crowded spaces?

Idk. I'm just super pumped to finally have an idea finalized lol. I don't think I can express how seen I felt as someone with severe trauma from a mother who is highly manipulative without even consciously getting she is. I feel seen for the moment I got on proper medication and saw the world with so much joy for living in each little moment again. I just feel seen in this character, and I always wanted my body to be a canvas of everything that made me crave to live when I couldn't find a reason of my own.

Feels fitting to dedicate living art to a man that dedicated his own life to making it, honestly.

It's probably gonna hurt like a bitch to get, but that also feels really fitting.

Also ignore some proportion issues pls thx

[messedupessy]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY @dreemurr-skelememer!! (͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) ❤❤🎉

So, I been wanting to draw Kia something for ages, and decided that today was the perfect time for it and this the result, her Treehouse au boys Hawthorn and Birch! Who was allot of fun to draw I gotta say! ❤

I had some serious trouble at first at getting Birch to look good, but I eventually got him to look good and right, I really love how Hawthorn’s expression turned out, Birch’s pose is a bit off still but it works, and the colours overall turned out pretty good!

So yeah, I love you Kia, we might not talk much but you are a very dear friend to me even so, hope your day is or have been good! ❤❤❤

[pinkchanelbag]

pining (in peace). — kenma.

a.k.a., kenma “i’d tell her i like her but i’m sleepy” kozume.

— because things are actually pretty good how they are. because he likes (and really only has the energy for) taking care of you in those subtle ways. because he hasn’t begun prepping for the emotional charge and crippling fear of a confession. and he's in no rush. because, if he's honest, kenma feels like you'll be the one he ends up with regardless.

— constant hangouts that don’t feel like hangouts anymore. “hanging out” implies a start and an end to kenma’s presence in your day, which is like saying you pull all the hairs on your body out of their follicles at the end of every day and then re-place them in the morning. being around kenma doesn’t feel like hanging out with a friend. it feels the way blinking feels. 

— anyone wants to “talk to you in private”? their eyes will look over the brown-yellow mop sitting next to you, a short distance from you, or blended into the background, bent over a PSP or nibbling on some gummies or blinking at them like a people-watching cat. and they’ll have to mind him, as is clear when you say “huh? oh, it’s just kenma.” 

— he only realizes something is different with you when kuroo makes a joke about how kenma looks after you the way kuroo looks after him.

— in fact, it sticks with him so much that it idly wanders through his mind as he games into the night, and the next day when he sees kuroo, he asks him if his caring for you is unusual.

— “is that...bad? like, does that mean something?” and kuroo is grinning fondly at his oblivious best friend.

— like a good coach, though, he doesn’t just give kenma the answer. he points out that he (kuroo) takes care of everyone, pretty much, so there’s nothing unusual about him doing it. he points out that kenma isn’t like that, but vagues about how just because something is unusual doesn’t mean it’s bad.

— and that’s that...yeah, kenma thinks about it often and eventually does go “ohhh.......” but strangely enough, his realization that he has more-than-friends feelings for you doesn’t panic him much. he’s kinda like, “...weird.”

— don’t get me wrong; for a little while after he realizes, when he’s around you he becomes silently flustered for no reason other than his own feelings. he’ll catch himself thinking about how nice your hair looks that day and how you’re really nice to look at, then be like “yo stop.”

— but he falls easily into it, because kuroo is right: he does take care of you, and he enjoys doing it.

— like when the two of you are at your house after school and he’s looking through your fridge for a snack while simultaneously picking out packable-looking foods and tossing them at you, telling you to put them in your backpack. he doesn’t say—doesn’t need to say—that it’s because he knows you’ll forget to pack a lunch for tomorrow’s school day.

— or how he’ll never say it, but he prefers that you stay after school and wait for him to finish practice because he (usually with kuroo in tow) wants to make sure he accompanies you on the train.

— (especially after the time you called him right before practice, and how he got no response to his hello? but could hear the bustling of the train and your little voice responding to another—an older man’s. kenma couldn’t hear the man’s words, but his tone was casual, friendly. too friendly. too old. and you sounded scared. in an instant he hung up and called you back so that you had to visibly pick up a call, then told you to excuse yourself and move to the other side of the car, then get off at the next stop. and to stay on the phone with him , all the way home.)

— it’s why, now, he gets slightly frowny every time you say you’re heading home before him. you notice it, and it’s why you end up spending most days after school in the library or the picnic tables on the front lawn until the two boys come out to take you home.

— at school, in those free periods where you’re on the verge of passing out and kenma is playing his PSP, he’ll take off that practically statement oversized red hoodie so you can bunch it into a makeshift pillow and sleep next to him on the bench (he definitely doesn’t pause to look at you every now and then).

— kenma who has a cat (furudate told me himself) and when the two of you are at his house and you seem to be in a sad mood, he’ll lightly shove his cat’s bum in your direction so it’ll go cuddle with you.

— and when on the train or in free period or sitting on the grass somewhere, he notices the way you idly watch him play and he adjusts his hold on the PSP and his sitting position, sort of brings himself closer to you so you’re right at his shoulder with optimal view to watch his screen.

— he can’t help the sickly smiley feeling inside when you start asking questions about the gameplay, and he happily answers them in a soft voice close to your ear. if you really wanna make his heart ache, the way you lay your head on his shoulder after craning it weirdly to watch for so long will have him letting out the tiniest of lovesick sighs.

— kenma who won’t facetime you himself but will text you consistently and for long enough that you get tired of typing and call him yourself, and his heart stutters when he sees incoming call on the screen.

— he won’t talk much on those calls, instead choosing to listen to your voice as you go on about absolutely anything. if he feels like you’re becoming self conscious about how much speaking you’ve been doing, he’ll ask a question about the topic (he was listening to every word) to let you know he was invested, or bring up his own conversation topic so you wouldn’t feel like you didn’t let him “say his piece.”

— he’s sort of 😦😐 about the idea of romantic affection or intimacy mostly because he can’t see himself doing it; it’s a big factor of why he doesn’t make a move. the thought of him planning dates and kissing openly and saying things like “yeah, i was with my girlfriend.” it’s too unlike him. he couldn’t be that person.

— that was before you’d ever dozed off while on the phone with him.

— before he ever heard your sleepy voice that made something inside him go warm with a realization that hit him harder than when he realized he had feelings for you: he realized he wanted to hold you.

— or something like it. he wanted to be there with you as you fell asleep. instead of a speaker, he wanted to hear your voice through your own mouth. and if he thinks about your mouth, he knows he’ll wither away entirely.

— that was how he discovered the difference between liking someone and wanting them. not in a sexual way; feelings so strong that they could make someone want to cross the line between a crush and something more. to want someone enough that not being with them, not feeling along the lines of their existence and not being able to say all the things you think about them, hurts.

— kenma discovers what it means to ache for someone, and this is what panics him, because now, how can he not tell you?

— because he’s not the type of guy to hold hands in public or give compliments or consent to meaning something to somebody. but he knows, wearily, that he’d do it. if it’s you, he’d do it in a heartbeat.

— (yeah...maybe not so peaceful after all.)

[english8muffin]

Vogue morning routine

Y/N Y/N/L’s guide to effortless natural makeup

Summary: you are asked to do the Vogue Beauty Secrets video and your two boys decide to join the party

Word count: around 2000

Warning: none, just pure floof!

I apologize in advance if there are any spelling and/or grammar mistakes, English is not my first language (+ this is my very first fic)

HEADLINE Henry Cavill’s new girlfriend, designer Y/N Y/L/N reveals her everyday morning routine in recent Vogue video: Y/N Y/L/N shows off her secrets to the perfect fusion of European and Asian beauty.

You stood in the spacious bathroom of the hotel room, only wearing a big, fluffy, white robe, that was actually Henry’s. But since the man was in the gym, you took the opportunity to lend it and bathe yourself in his musky smell, that calmed your nerves. Last night you started panicking, thinking you would probably look stupid for the entire world to see, luckily Henry and Kal tried to calm you down with cuddles and kisses.

This was the first ‘interview’ you would do, being such a young, successful entrepreneur really caught the attention of the media. When you first started your small online shop, you never would have thought you would end up here. Five years later, with a steady income, the job you always wished for and the man you had a crush on since the first time you laid eyes on him. Being a creative, it really made your heart soar with happiness, seeing all your products, your babies, in new homes where they would make others happy.

You were really proud of yourself. Henry was as well, and he made sure you and everybody around you knew. You were apprehensive at first, being with such a well known actor, who was also much older than you, it made you nervous of what people would say, what the media would say. You didn’t want to tarnish Henry’s image. You knew there were people with a much bigger age gap, but still, people were ruthless. So you both decided to take it slow, being careful with going out in public and social media posts.

You stand in front of the large mirror, which had a camera attached to it and open up your makeup bag. Right before you went into the bathroom, you made yourself a nice cup of tea, trying to stay calm. “Hi! I’m Y/N and today I am going to show you my everyday makeup routine,” you say with a smile, “I am not a dermatologist so please don’t take what I say too seriously.”

You grab a small white washcloth and hold it up, so it was in the frame, “First, I am going to wash my face and put on a few drops of serum,” You dampen the cloth and wipe it over your face and neck. You put a few drops in the palm of your hand and pat them into your skin. “Now I going to use my jade roller to massage the serum into my skin. It’s quite funny seeing so many people use these nowadays. In ancient China they were mostly used by the elite to keep there skin ageless. They would call jade the Stone of Heaven. It’s really helpful for the people who wake up with a puffy face like me,” you chuckle.

Somethimes you’d wake up with puffy cheeks, which led to Henry calling you his chubby bunny in the morning.

“Just a quick tip, and this is for everybody, make sure you always use SPF. I personally use SPF 30 and this one is shine control, since I tend to get an oily skin, but you can also use a regular one or a foundation with SPF in it. Believe me when I say your skin will be thankful.”

You grab the small tube of sun cream and show the amount you’ll use. You even convinced Henry to wear SPF everyday. At first he said he didn’t think it would make such a big difference, but when he realised you were going to be the one to put it on him, he was convinced about its benefits and adamant to wear it everyday. After working the thick cream into your skin, you put on some lipbalm and rummage through the pouch in front of you. When you find the product you’re looking for, you hold it up. “Now, I am going to put on a bit of concealer, this one is from Maybelline. After this, I will use a lighter shade under my eyes and on my acne scars that I have here,” you point and circle around the small cluster of scars on the sides of your cheeks.

Before blending out the concealer, you smile at the lens and put in two bright yellow hairclips, to keep your dark locks from falling into your face. “I probably should have done this at the start,” you laugh. The nerves creeping up a little. It wasn’t that you where a shy person, but knowing thousands of people will watch this, did something to you. You were always a very easygoing person, who could talk with pretty much everybody. But knowing people were going to watch you do something so intimate in a way, and would probably comment on it, scared you a little. While you would be 100% yourself, doing something as mundane as getting ready. If they didn’t like you now, then they probably won’t like you later. And that was what made you so afraid.

The bathrobe falls a bit down your shoulder, but you ignore it, since your hair fell down your shoulders in big waves. “Okay, brows. I used to block them in really dark when I was younger, but now I try to keep a light hand. I’ll use this Got 2B Glued as a brow gel afterwards. The tails of my eyebrows tend to move if I don’t use a strong enough gel. If you’re Asian you will understand the struggle.”

You quickly finish your brows, put some bronzer on your face and eyelids and take out your liquid eyeliner. “Am I the only one that acts like I’m a beauty guru whenever I do my makeup? Like, I’m just acting as if I’m used to this, right now, but to be honest, I was really nervous to do this video for Vogue,” you admit, “they will probably regret asking me,” you chuckle. You finish your eyemakeup with curling your long lashes, thanks to your mother’s genes, and add a coat of mascara.

You take in a deep breath, excited to show everyone the product you had been waiting for. “The next thing I am really proud to show you guys, because I designed the packaging. This is the new limited edition blush and highlighter palette from Dior, which they created for Lunar New Year!” You beam with pride, holding up the elegant looking palette. It had a darker toned glossy finish and the borders were the traditional Chinese looking frames, which were 3D and were surrounded by a wild variety of peonies. In the middle of the lid was your Chinese calligraphy in big golden brush stokes that said ‘year of the Ox’, the clasp was designed so it resembled an antique Chinese coin and on the side hung a jade charm.

“You can pre-order this palette now, I think they will put a link-thingy in de description. I wish you all a happy and blessed Lunar New Year, 祝农历年新年快乐牛年大吉!”

Just as you’re about to add some blush to your cheeks, the bathroom door creaks open and a curly-headed, sweaty Henry pops his head in. Fresh from the gym, and were you thankful for his new intense workout, because he was truely a sight to behold. A cheeky smile graces his handsome face when he spots you in front of the mirror, only wearing his robe, which made his grin widen.

“what are you doing in here? Are you hiding from me? Playing hide and seek is it?” he teases and rakes his large hand through the tousled curls, but just as he’s done speaking, he sees the camera behind you, and blushes. “Oh, I didn’t know you were filming, I’m sorry darling,” he smiles and gives a small wave in the direction of the camera. You led out a giggle, cheeks turning red already, if he’d keep this up, you wouldn’t need to add blush. You couldn’t focus anymore, he looked so attractive, only wearing his black gym shorts and a tight dark blue tank top. Damn that camera, otherwise you would have jumped him. Henry, thought the exact same thing. Seeing you, only wearing his robe and your hair still a bit wild from this morning’s cardio, made him hold back a moan. Those two cute, yellow clips in your hair could have fooled him, because you were anything but innocent.

Before he’s about to close the door again, he blows you a kiss. But his actions are stopped when a big bear makes his appearance. Bolting past his dad’s legs, Kal comes into the bathroom. Henry tries to catch him but misses. The black and white akita excitedly sniffs his head around the sink, trying to see what you were up to with all the stuff lying on the marble counter.

“Kal!” Henry whisper-yelled, trying to stay hidden behind the door. But you could still see his massive body crouched down behind the wood. It was rather funny, seeing the large man so panicked about getting his dog to listen. It kind of reminded you of that one video from BBC were a professor was being interviewed and his baby and nanny showed up in the background. While Henry tried to get Kal’s attention, the dog just sat next to your legs, and smiled when you pet him behind his ear. He was your good boy.

You both knew there was no other option but to keep Kal here, once he saw you do your makeup, he wanted to watch and get his ‘makeup’ done as well.

Henry also saw the look in Kal’s eyes and let out a sigh. Might as well stay with his two loves. He stood up from his position and walked to you, wrapping his sweaty but oh so save body around your figure, and placed a prolonged kiss on the exposed skin just by your shoulder. So far for taking it slow… He pressed himself thighter against your back, hiding his face in the crook of your neck and intertwined your hands, slowly rocking you two back en forth. “You look beautiful, my love,” he whispered, so only you could hear it, at least you hoped the camera wouldn’t pick that up. You let out a little giggle, like the inner schoolgirl you were whenever he was around you.

“Kal loves when Y/N does his makeup as well, don’t you boy,” Henry explains with a smile and looks down at the bear by your bare feet. Kal gives a small ruff and sweeps his tail eagerly. “Did you show them what you made,” he asked you with a wide smile, and looked straight in to the camera, “she worked really hard on that design, so I hope you all like it,” he declared proudly.

You ended up doing your makeup routine with your two boys in the background. Henry left for a few minutes to shower in the second bathroom your hotelroom had, and came back clad in a pair of light jogging trousers and a sweater. Even though you were inside, it was still a bit too chilly to walk around in short sleeves, being mid-winter and all. He just sat on the small wooden bench by the door, still in frame for everybody to enjoy and behold. His hair now damp. He was reading in a book and patiently waiting for you to get ready, occasionally looking up and laughing when you would wet your hands or Kal’s special makeup brush in the sink and pretend to do his makeup. The dog would bark excitedly and give you kisses. “Wow Kal, you look so pretty,” Henry told the big floof with the chuckle.

“Okay, this was my -somewhat- everyday makeup routine! Thank you guys for watching this chaotic mess, hope you laughed a bit, bye-bye, 再见!” How do those vlogger end their videos? Smash like and subscribe?

Behind you Henry looked up from the pages of his fantasy book and arched his brow, “Hey! No shout-out for your special guests? See you all next time!”

WOOHOO!! This is my very first fanfic, I really hope you enjoyed it. Liking, reposting and commenting would mean a lot to me! If you do repost this, please do not edit or copy my work. I worked really hard on this.

Much love, Nahmi xxx

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[sylverstorms]

Cassandra x Maiden ----Anonymity Ch.7

Ch.1 Ch.2 Ch.3 Ch.4 Ch.5 Ch.6

Cassandra gradually starts taking up more of your time. Or, more accurately, demands it like it’s her birthright.

Every day, you wake her up with a kiss to her shoulder or neck and a whisper of her name. She comes to you when she’s bored at random times during your shifts, to either talk –complain— about her sisters or to outright distract you. There are times at night when you’ll feel the chill of her slip into your bed and press up against your back, but she’s always gone by morning light, like a dream.

She used to be just another component to your nightmares. Now… she’s what takes them away.

And you’re afraid.

That you’re growing to like the time with her while she’s just playing around, that it will cut that much deeper when you find yourself on the end on her sickle. Because how else can it end, you reason, between the two of you?

The thought momentarily makes your liplock with Cassandra taste bitter, despite the sweet strawberry taste of her lip balm -and no way she’s putting that on for you, right?

She has you pressed deep into a plush armchair with her palm on your chest, while her thighs are locked tight on either side of yours. You want to tell her that you should stop –both because you’re literally in the open and anyone can walk in on you and because it’s late—but her lips are doing wicked things to your neck and you can’t find your voice long enough.

When Cassandra starts grinding down on you though, rather impatiently too, you have to speak up before she starts something neither of you can finish.

“Cassandra.” you say breathily. A sharp nip comes over your pulse, then slippery lips close around the area. “Ah! Cassandra. You’ll be late for dinner.”

She tsks and pulls back, expression much like a kid that got her hand slapped away from the cookie jar. She dismounts you with the same sour look, smoothing down her robes.

“Walk me there.” she orders.

You rise and fall into step beside her, trying not to linger on how strange it feels. It should be nothing, really, considering all the activities the two of you nightly indulge in, but it’s… something.

Cassandra, uncharacteristically quiet, keeps gazing out the windows as though calculating or pinpointing something while you make your way to the dining room.

She comes to a sudden halt just before you reach it, turns to you, steals a quick kiss and then quickly leaves you behind, a colder aura about her as she strolls inside.

You hear Lady Dimitrescu’s voice, but not what she says. Once a few minutes have passed and you can safely blend into the background, you join the other maids on standby within.

You used to hate it here. Having them all in front of you like that, serving them wine, when they’re all to blame for taking any semblance of normalcy out of your life. You never glance at what they’re eating. You still dislike dinner time.

But.

When Alcina makes a snide comment about Heisenberg and you hear Cassandra’s laugh above Daniela’s giggle and Bela’s chuckle…

It no longer seems so bad.

-

-

“Bela, stay a moment.” Cassandra says after Lady Dimitrescu leaves with Daniela in tow.

“Oh, no.” The blonde huffs under her hood.

“I didn’t say anything. Yet.” The younger sibling raises her hands in exasperation.

“When you go ‘Bela~’” You bite your lip to keep your expression neutral as you’re cleaning the table because hearing the normally stoic sister mimic Cassandra’s voice like that is just plain gold. “It’s never good.” her tone turns flat once more.

Cassandra very pointedly rolls her pretty eyes. “I need you to cover for me.”

“See?” Bela sighs. “Absolutely not.”

“Well, it wasn’t really a question, I was just trying to give you the illusion of choice.” Cassandra shrugs. “I’m going out tonight.”

“What?” Bela damn near hisses. “Have you lost your mind?”

“It’s fine it’s, like, thirteen degrees.”

“How is that fine?”

The elder sister’s gaze then flits to you. There is no other maid in the vicinity that can overhear them, but she’s clearly uncomfortable with you picking up the implications of their conversation.

You still don’t get it. You guessed their aversion to sunlight has to do with their mutations… but why would the cold be an issue?

The survivor in you wants to know more. To know if this is something that can be used to your advantage when the time and circumstances are right for a potential escape.

Another part of you… just plain worries.

“I know what I’m doing.” Cassandra says, stern.

“Then you’re doing it alone.” Bela turns to leave…

Except.

“Oh, well. Guess mother should know about that little maid you’ve been orbiting around, lately.” Cassandra comments. “The one you even did a favor for? Just imagine her disappointment in you, the shining example of the family, stooping so low.”

Bela’s back goes rod-straight. The piercing look she sends Cassandra sends ice down your spine. You think she’s going to pounce… yet she exhales.

“One. Hour.” Bela states. “If you’re not back in one hour I’m coming to drag your sorry behind to mother. And she—” A gloved finger points directly to you, “Won’t be coming back with you in one piece.”

Wait.

What?

-

-

You didn’t know Cassandra planned to take you with her. But she didn’t deny it when Bela pointed to you. After her sister left, all she said was: ‘Dress well.’

Which brings you to your current position, pacing by the entrance hall of the castle, in a warm coat and two layers of clothes underneath. You turn to look behind when you finally hear her steps descending the staircase.

And— you freeze.

Because Cassandra is not wearing her usual robes. She’s dressed in all black, yes, but the outfit is tight on her form, fitting every curve, hugging her wonderful legs like a second skin. She’s wearing knee-high boots instead of heels and her hooded, gothic overcoat reaches down to mid-thigh.

There’s not a single patch of her skin visible other than her face… and you can’t, for the life of you, explain why it’s that hot.

“You’re staring, plaything.” she chastises, yet doesn’t sound like she minds. Rather, she’s smirking.

“Uh—” you can’t really form words.

“We need to hurry, clock’s ticking.” she says as she jiggles the very key you’ve looked everywhere during work hours for. The key to freedom. To leaving the castle.

Cassandra double-checks her clothes before she opens the door. You file it as useful information for later as you hurry to catch up to her.

The path to the village –or what’s left of it— through the forest is… difficult. Mainly because Cassandra is entirely unbothered by any and all obstacles and moves like she’s on a walkway, leaving you to fight with every rock hidden in the snow.

You manage. Somehow.

Until a distant howl makes you jump and quite literally crash into her side.

Cassandra laughs. It’s a clear, beautiful sound in the dead of night. “My, my. Scared of a Lycan in my presence?”

“I thought it was just a regular wolf!” You whisper, mortified.

Yellow eyes blink at you. Then her gloved hand raises to yours, taking it in a secure grip. You didn’t realize you were shaking, yet the tremors quickly cease when she does that. It’s just your heart that still feels like it’s going to give out on you, but for an entirely different reason, now.

Cassandra safely leads you to the village. It looks more or less the same, except empty, void of life. You don’t linger on memories. You don’t.

“Show me your house.” she says.

You never thought you’d be tracing the steps of your front porch so soon. You only have to push the door for it to open. And the inside is just as you remembered. A quaint little house. It’s simply not… home, anymore.

Nothing is.

Maybe nothing ever was.

And the thought makes a thin, cracked wall inside you finally give. Cassandra is saying something a few paces behind you, but your vision has blurred, your eyes sting and hot, salty rivers roll past your lids.

“Are you listening to me?” she asks. “...Plaything?”

You can’t talk. If you do, you’ll sob and break to pieces on the floor like a pushed glass statue.

Cassandra’s grip is tight and demanding on your elbow when her fingers curl above it, but she turns you with gentleness you’d never think her capable of. You do not meet her eyes.

Her other hand comes up to your neck.

You can’t, you can’t—

“Alexia.”

Your eyes snap to hers when she says it, from the shock. You didn’t think she even knew your name. Cassandra shifts her weight from one leg to the other, then seems to decide on something and wipes the tears beading at your chin away with her thumb.

“Pack what you wish. We don’t have long.”

As you turn into your bedroom and open your wardrobe to pack a few clothes into a bag, just to feel a tad more yourself when you’re in your room in the castle, the sound of your name falling from her lips follows you.

Haunts you.

You have half a mind to get your mp3, phone and chargers before you return to her. Cassandra is holding whatever she wanted to get from the village in a box tucked between her arm and body.

“Come.” she orders. Her hand settles on your elbow again and practically drags you along.

You don’t talk on your way back to the castle.

From one of the many windows overlooking the front yard, you spot Bela’s eyes on the two of you until she retreats into the shadows. Rigidly, Cassandra enters and immediately goes by the large fireplace to warm up. You only then notice how much more fluid her movements get. Or rather, how sluggish she was during the trip.

You shut the door and turn the key and realize it’s much easier to handle your situation when you’re the one locking yourself inside.

You take off your coat and scarf, then make to head for your bedroom —according to your calculations you’ll only get 3 hours of sleep— until… you notice how cold Cassandra looks.

She’s one step away from hugging the flames. And you can still hear her call you by your name in your head.

Great. Another thing to keep me up at night. You think as you approach her.

Slowly, so as to not scare her, you slip your arms around her slim waist from behind. She’s like a block of ice in your embrace, at first. Her body thaws gradually, to the point she’s fully relaxed against you.

“Thank you for today.” the words don’t come easy –they’re like pulling teeth— but you manage to get them out clearly enough.

“You’ll thank me in very many ways, plaything.” she says. “Having your own belongings in the castle is not a privilege any maid gets. But.” her voice, although quiet, hardens the slightest amount. “If, despite my generosity, you harbor dreams of escape… I will turn them to nightmares.”

Your blood goes cold in your veins. You can only nod against her shoulder.

Cassandra turns in your arms to look at you.

“And if you ever try to leave me alone here… I will find you and kill you myself.”

[smutty-ki113r]

🎠Laughing Jack🎠|| Carousel

Fluff one-shot x gn!reader— only warning is angst (2.6k)

Inspired by: Melanie Martinez

After months of endless nagging you finally convinced Laughing Jack to let you visit his amusement park. He had claimed it was too scary and you would get creeped out but you weren’t one to take no for an answer.

Giving you a piece of candy so the trans-dementional trip wouldn’t be too hard on you. Tasting the sour lemon taffy he gave you and making a tense face as the flavor pulled at your taste buds and stuck to your teeth.

Your head getting dizzy as your surroundings warped and his room became red and white vertical stripes. Blinking a couple times as he leaned into your face, “are you alright?”

“I’m fine!” You told him, almost falling back at how close he was. As soon as your perception adjusted you looked for the exit to the tent you were inside. “Onward!” You said excited, marching comedically to the entrance flap.

“This isn’t exactly the safest place”, he called from behind, catching up with ease because his legs were so long. “You need to stay close to me at all times” you smiled at him, it’s not like you were complaining, “got that?”

Giving him a keen nod you stepped out of the grand tent. Squinting at the sky, which was tainted a dusty gray, swirly clouds amber of scattered around in the background. The carnival was beautifully revolting, with littered attractions as far as the eye could see.

The place looked somewhat abandoned, if you get past the faint cries of children, from their souls stored in toys. Rides that once colored a vibrant red had paint chipped, specks of dull metal flaked over the bars.

Game stands broken down and leaning unsteadily, disturbing toys with eyes and limbs missing hanging from the top. It looked like it might fall down at any minute, but you couldn’t help but notice the newer looking boxes of supplies lying around next to the stands.

Fairy lights hung from the tilted signs, decorating the food court. A fresh trail had been made between the rides.

It warmed your heart that he had made subtle efforts to fix the place up, he certainly didn’t think you would notice.

Looking back at his nervous smile, Jack was terrified you would hate the place. You thought all but the opposite, giving him a big grin. Your expression relaxed him, assuring him that you wouldn’t think he was a freak and leave. His whole demeanor shifting, making him more comfortable and even enthusiastic.

Straightening out and giving you jazz hands, “what are you waiting for?” putting one hand on his hip to motion you to the park with the other “lets go have fun!”

Following behind you with a giggle as you approached the carnival games. The ring toss looking somewhat appealing in between the other activities, so you told him you wanted to play.

“Basically you get 5 rings, if you get at least 3 in the pins you win a prize” he explained.

“Alright alright lemme try” you waved him off, snatching the rings and giving one a toss. It missed, you brushed it off. The second one made it in and Jack gave a little cheer, it still wasn’t enough.

Hyperfocusing on the pin in the middle make a soft throw upward, the edge hitting the top of the pin and falling to the side. You gave a groan, calculating your last two throws.

Your forth throw made the pin to the side, and you only had one more try left. Aiming for another pin at the side to release, the ring clanging against it and falling to the floor.

You went to look at Jack with a frown but he wore a happy expression, “you won!” He exclaimed. Confused you turned back, finding the ring you had just tossed around the last pin. You were completely certain you had missed it, racking your mind for an explanation as jack handed you a small purple bunny that was missing an arm.

Realizing that Jack had manipulating the game so you could win, throwing him a knowing glance. He just happened to be looking away, whistling guiltily.

Squeezing the bunny you moved onto the next game, it was ballon dart toss. The stand had pale red and black balloons scattered across a board. Excitement was written all over his face, you cocked an eyebrow in question.

“It’s a two person game!” He said, “whoever pops more balloons wins!”

He handed you four darts and kept four for himself, “you can go first” he motioned with a grin. Pacing the dart in two fingers a couple times before throwing at a balloon. Giving a groan when you missed and waiting for him to go.

Being as skilled as he was he managed to land one in a bullseye. “Oh it’s on” you dared, getting one point yourself. LJ got the second one too, staring at you intensely as you evened out the score.

Giving him a small smile as the dart broke the surface of the balloon with a sharp noise “pop goes the weasel right?” You laughed, referring to his famous song.

He looked at you almost in shock, taken aback by your joke. Shaking himself into reality he broke out in a light blush, a part of him touched, as if you were accepting him for who he was.

Too distracted by your eyes on him to play the game with concentration. Missing the third one with a growl he waited for you to take your turn, which you lost. It was the last point and Jack was a shoe in, so obviously he took the victory.

You were happy for him, passing along a “good job!” as he retrieved the big brown teddy bear that was half his size, and all of yours. It was missing an eye, thin stands of makeshift fur pulled out and a silky red bow around it’s neck.

“Here” he said, dangling it in front of you.

“For me?” You asked, “but you won”, trying to look up at him but the bear blocked most of your view, only letting you see above his nose.

“Just take it” he practically pushed it into you, making you blow out an oof.

Holding it to the side at the torso with one hand you broke out in a grin “thank you for the plushie” you said, hugging him from the side and squeezing his torso “but I want you to be my teddy” you laughed. He looked incredibly flustered, frozen as you broke away.

“You’re big and tall” you tippy toed up to give his shoulder pad feathers a ruffle “and fluffy”

The man looked like he was about to faint so you decided to knock it off, laughing and telling him you wanted to go on the carousel next. Quickly, LJ happily led you too it, skipping in front of you (mostly to hide his blush).

Standing at the controls to cue a round, watching you walk around to find a pretty horse. Given, all of them had dark spots and chipped paint, but they worked all the same. Leaving the bear on another horse and climbing onto a white one that had a yellow saddle, intricate lacy designs patterned on the sides. Royal blue reigns across it’s chest and a lion on a crest.

It was beautiful, and you traced your fingers on the drawing. It must have been stunning, but the weathering of time and agony had gotten to it. A painful reminder of what was, a mere reflection of the chipping away of a joyful being.

Prying away from your thoughts as you felt the vibrations of Jack stepping onto the walkway- with one of his big smiles. Even after everything, he still wore a smile. It made you want to tear up, he really needed all the love he could get.

He was too tall to get on a horse, so he just stood by you. His big hand gracing the golden pole and holding on, watching as you peeked up at him. Even though his eyes were constantly bright he displayed something…deeper. It was a sort of shine, a sparkle if you will, luminosity glazed over in such a way that one can only get lost in its vastness.

The looped music in the background was secondary as you rose up and down with the horse, giving Jack a little smile and thanking him for bringing you here. “I’m having a lot of fun with you” you noted.

“Well of course you are! It’s a carnival” he said with joy.

“No I mean with you” you clarified “you’re pretty great Jack”. This time he didn’t avoid your gaze, his mouth open slightly, not knowing how to react to the sincerity of the compliment.

The ride slowly came to a stop, and you were feeling slightly tingly. Maybe it was the air, or the loss of focus. “How about a roller coaster?” You dared, to which he gave a tense face.

“Those are pretty broken, you’ll probably die riding one and that’s not what we want” he said, stepping off the carousel. “How about some cotton candy instead?”

You nodded your head vigorously, following him in the pursuit for the fairy floss, the bear falling behind forgotten. Passing by more unused rides that had long past rusted and a house of mirrors to get to the food court.

Jack humming happily as he dipped a paper cone into the bowl of revolving fibers of sugar. Whipping up a swirly pink and blue cotton candy and handing it to you with a proud smile.

He went to make another treat until you spoke, “I’m not that hungry so we can share” you proposed. “If you want”

“Are you sure?” He asked, concerned that you didn’t have much appetite. “Do you want some candy or maybe a funnel cake?”

You shook him off, taking a bite out of the cloud-like dessert. It was absolutely delicious, honeyed and saccharine on your tongue in a blend of flavor you had never tasted had before.

Soft as it disintegrated onto your mouth, leaving behind a remanence of something too sweet. Bringing it up to Jack, who was so tall you had to extend your arm fully to get it to his mouth.

He simply laughed at your struggle, taking a bite before giving you a thin smile and taking it from your hand. Sitting down at a bench so that you could both share comfortably.

By the time the candy had finished you noticed little bits of the silky texture stuck on his nose. Painfully stifling a laugh you turned away.

“What’s so funny?” He asked with a genuine smile.

When you didn’t answer his tone changed, “what’s so funny huh?” he sounded a bit angered.

Hiccuping through your laughter you faced him, leaning in real close to his face, enough so that you could feel the heat emanating from it; taking a bite of the pink woven candy on his nose and holding it in your teeth.

His face went red at the sight, embarrassed that he had cotton candy on his nose. Well, that and for a moment he thought you were going to kiss him.

Noticing your hands were all sticky you asked him if there was a sink somewhere. After both of you washed your hands you sat back down at the bench.

The sky was going dark, the poofs of dusty cloud fading in with the night but still managing to remain visible. You heard a whirr as Jack turned on all the rides at the carnival, lighting the whole thing up.

You sat in awe, a mere spectator in the empty yet live amusement park. Admiring the music that added to the ambiance, watching Jack approach you.

“Wanna take a walk?” He asked, but there was something…off. LJ seemed nervous as you got up and walked next to him.

He had been thinking about it for a while now, probably even before he brought you to the carnival. Even though he had washed the gooey candy from his hands they were still sticky, but it was from sweat. Giving you side glances as you paced the trail with him.

Debating to himself whether or not he should do it, if you would hate him for it. Telling himself that he would regret it if he didn’t, but thinking about the potential negative reactions you could give.

Passing the carousel once again as you noticed the usually loud and happy clown was silent, lost in thought as he stared into the distance, his lips forming a tensing line.

Wondering if he was ok, but brining up the topic might make him uneasy. Perhaps you being there at his haunted amusement park was ticking him off, or if you taking that cotton floss off his nose was too much, or if you were pushing your luck, or worse what if you triggered hi-

All thoughts faded from your mind the moment you felt a slow, shaky hand grasp onto yours. You had to look to where he held you because he was so gentile you thought it was the wind. Holding onto you softly enough that it felt like a feather, somehow still creating a little pocket of warmth between you.

A glowing thump of heat pulsing inside your chest, happiness digging into your cells and giving you the confidence to squeeze his hand.

He let out a sharp inhale at the feel, still avoiding your gaze as he relaxed into your touch. Not daring to move his hand too much or he might risk ruining the moment, afraid of hurting you with his claws.

Approaching the Ferris wheel he finally spoke, “this is probably the one ride that won’t break”, not a peep about holding you. “Do you want to go on?”

You finally caught his gaze, absolutely melting at the smile in his eyes. Responding with a ‘yes’ and letting him open the door for you. Sustaining his grip with you as he helped you on, not letting go even after you sat.

The cart wasn’t exactly small, but with a guy the size of Jack it was pretty compacted. It’s not like you minded, the lack of space gave you an excuse to bunch up alongside him. The feathers from his pads tickling your face as you rested on him.

Watching the view as the cart took you higher and higher, it was perfect. The evening set in the rich obscurity of the night, lights of the festival blinking as if they had a life of their own. The bulbs on the stands making z’s as they illuminated the red and white drapes of the far off tents.

Jack held your hand with such care and caress, you gave him a reassuring press to let him know it was ok. He was so enveloped with the passionate act that he squeezed as well. Letting you feel all the dips and curves of his hand. Clutching onto you, as if you might disappear too.

Facing him to cup his cheek with your free hand, caressing him and tucking a stand of hair behind his ear. Trailing your thumb across his skin and feeling him lean into your touch, swearing that between the lines on the pad of your finger there was a tear that you had wiped away.

Getting lost in the breaths you shared as you inched closer to his lips, giving him a second of warmth longer to prove that you weren’t going anywhere.