#blue drew. woohoo

[afk-brain]

Yesterday was a hecking fever dream of a day, but I did do one of the "I'm probably gonna draw this later lol" drawings!

Link

So, of course, here's Corvraptor!John being the knowledge-eating creature he is:

And I wanted to practice using other people's refs and designs and stuff, so here's @barnowlive's Dragon!Jon design as well :D

Got a few more ideas to doodle today, so keep an eye (heh) out for that!

[afk-brain]

Felt inspired by this and wanted to practice drawing cats, so here's this!

Closeups with reference pictures!

And this last meme was already on my "draw later" list, so it was convenient to add to this!

This is a more realistic style ofc, but I might try something more stylized later!

listen i get the mothman eldritch jon but

what about cat eldritch jon. hes just a large black cat with too many eyes

[rkgk-art]

So...new year, new art!

The tiny doodle on AK's website (that I showed a screenshot of here) aside, I haven't drawn or posted anything yet!

I kinda felt to try to draw Ash from @vendetta-if again. The first time I drew male Ash was July 2022 and again in August 2022, I posted both drawings October 2023.

I feel (hope) I improved by now and that's why I chose Ash again :D

I like them as a character a lot. But I'm not sure if I would say they're my fav RO, because I honestly like all of them so far! I do kinda wanna draw them all at some point as well as my MC lol

Well, enough talk, here's my first Ash for this year🥳

[arkanicdevotion]

I FINALLY DREW HIM WOOHOO My sebastian design I don't like to believe him blue, perfers him more grey but still with hints of colors like in the dull blue fins and the iridescent colored scales on his arms!

[afk-brain]

tSotD blog is live now btw :D

I don't think anyone saw that post about it, but feel free to check it out if you like the rest of my art and stuff!

(It's kinda empty at the moment so I'll add some more concept art and progress to it real quick)

While my new pfp loads (it's just that one concept art of Indigo lol), here's a quick screenshot of the rest of that one concept art of Indigo!

Featuring many silhouette tests, figuring out her horns, and a contrast test for the colors lol

Going to give her a full-body design now - incorporating a bunch of the elements of this design but making it look better:

[namelessheartz]

HAPPY PKMN DAY!! WOOHOO!! (Huge caption warning.) So excited for Legends ZA! Will need to draw some fanart for it soon!

Ah yes, another year has gone by since I last talked about the fact that this franchise means SOOOO damn much to me. It's gotten me through a lot and has helped me meet so many amazing people! It's a huge inspiration for me and I really enjoy making headcanons and stuff for it a lot! (With canon always still included! ^^)

That brings us to the fact: Red's trans (ftm) in my hcs and doesn't come out/realizes until he's like 14(ish) just to clear up any confusion here. I draw all characters based on my hcs so that's why he is like he is here (also a huge projection on my part since I'm also trans ftm)

Red looks taller than you'd think here but in reality he's a tiny ten (almost eleven) year old saving the Kanto region from this tall-scary-mafia-villain man,, drew some Kanto stuff since it's the anni for it (yes I know it's the frlg fits lol but in my hcs Red changes his outfit during the events of the games but did start with his og one.)

[seesboy]

hello it seems i'm back here again with my Ambiguously Late 2000s AU except i managed to draw almost everyone this time around. woohoo

design notes && extra stuff under the cut :-)

~ if there's one design i'm not completely confident about it's combeferre's x_x i honestly didn't know where i was going with it outside of designating him as the Blue in the red/blue/yellow thing i did with enj/him/courf respectively. i might revise it in the future to make it fit him better but for now this is what i'm sticking to

~ there isn't much reason behind bahorel's clothes being similar to feuilly's it was 10pm when i drew him and i got lazy. i don't have much of an issue with how he turned out though

~ grantaire's hair is naturally wavy/curly (somewhere between 2b and 3a? i guess?? looking up hair types didn't help as much as i thought it would. btw it's vv much based off of my own hair lol), but it appears straight in most cases through a mix of him actually straightening it and it just being Greasy. i've drawn it naturally before though !

~ éponine's hair is dyed, naturally it's a lot like the light brown hair gavroche has. oh and the racoon tails are extensions lol

~ speaking of gravroche, while i don't know if it's completely obvious, certain parts of his design (namely the beanie) are based off of what i did for grantaire. he and ep are living with R in this au so i think he looks up to him a ton && really really wants to be like him (albeit in a "10 year old idolizing Some Guy" way) and that's somewhat reflected in his design

~ in an earlier draft of the second part i had a montparnasse design all set up and partially colored before i realized it would've made more sense to add gav lolol... i still have it saved but he's like. a Generic Emo Boy here so i don't feel like i'm confident enough in his design to add him to this post </3

~ oh yeah and i tried adding acne to a lot of the guys (gender neutral) but i don't think it's really noticeable outside of marius -_- i think i'll have to keep studying it to figure out how to draw it better

so yeah ! there's my update to this au, at the moment the fic (which i rewrote shortly after posting the first drawing) is sitting at over 5k words which is like. the most i've written Ever and it's still going strong... it's also taught me that i'm prone to writing scenes that drag and drag </3 thankfully revision helps a ton so hopefully it'll be decent when i finally finish it

[the-himawari]

A3! Tehepero Shuriken Playback Scout - Playback Talk Translation

*Please read disclaimer on blog

---

Kazunari: Hey, y’all ♪ It’s MANKAI Company Summer troupe’s Miyoshi Kazunari!

Misumi: I’m Ikaruga Misumi from the same troupe!

Kazunari: Thanks for tuning into the stream for Summer troupe’s 5th performance, “SHI★NO★BI Misadventuring”!

Misumi: From here on out is the bonus footage~. We’re holding a special talk between the lead, Kazu, and me, the co-lead!

Kazunari: We’d be happy if fans who recently found out about MANKAI Company can watch this stream and learn more about us and our troupe’s history.

Misumi: This is the first time we’ve watched the footage of the play in a long time too.

Kazunari: I know, right! It felt like such a throwback, didn’t it? We all drew pictures and played hide-and-seek together back then~.

Misumi: Right, right! We played a lot. It was so much fun!

Kazunari: When we do stuff like that, the other troupes ask us if we’re still in elementary school or kindergarten. But it’s important for all of us in Summer troupe to move our bodies with all our might and have fun like that. We need that kinda time.

Misumi: Yep! I think so too.

Kazunari: Besides, I feel like I was able to take another step forward thanks to that time. It might’ve looked like we were just playing around, but I could feel all the Summer troupe members’ emotions.

Misumi: Ehehe. I’m glad I got to see you smile, Kazu~! Ah, I know! Hey, hey. Let’s do what we did back then again today!

Kazunari: I’m so down! You’re a genius, Sumi!

Misumi: Let’s draw pictures and play hide-and-seek! Let’s eat onigiri together on the triangle roof at night!

Kazunari: Hell yeah! If everyone in Summer troupe is together, then it’ll be fun no matter how many times we do it! Heck, isn’t it cool beans that we’re at this age, yet we’re still pure like kindergarteners!?

Misumi: Cool beans, cool beans~!

Kazunari: Ahahaha! On that note, that’s all for the “SHI★NO★BI Misadventuring” special free talk footage. Thanks, everyone~!

Misumi: Thanks~! See you!

-pause-

Kazunari: Alriiight, let’s hurry up and shoot the rest of Summer troupe a LIME!

Kazunari’s LIME: “Hey, y’all! We just finished filming the Shinobi play’s free talk”

Kazunari’s LIME: “You see, Sumi and I were talking!”

Kazunari’s LIME: “Let’s draw pics, play hide-and-seek, and eat onigiri together just like we did during the run of the Shinobi play!”

Kazunari’s LIME: “That being said, Summer troupe ASSEMBLE~ ☆”

Misumi’s LIME: “Assemble, everyone~ ∆∆∆”

Tenma’s LIME: “HUH!? Right now!”

Tenma’s LIME: “Geez, guess I have no choice. I’m off today, so I’ll head over”

Kumon’s LIME: “Woohoo! I’ll go right now!”

Yuki’s LIME: “You always say things out of the blue. Anyways, I don’t have plans so I’ll humour you guys”

Muku: “I can’t wait. I’m heading over right now too!”

Kazunari: It’s totally the best when everyone gets together even if they say this or that.

Misumi: Ehehe. I can’t wait~.

Kazunari: Yep, yep! Let’s move our bodies and play with all our might today~!

Misumi: YEAH!

---

[suggahsweet]

Days 30-32 of 66 (Sunday through Tuesday)

I don't understand how I keep miscounting the days and losing track! Also, it's hard to type now that my nails have grown out. The cost of beauty! Sunday I played for my parents' church and prepped for EJ's first day of camp (!!!). Monday was emotional! I got choked up dropping the little man off and I just love how he keeps running back for more hugs and kisses. This morning he calmly informed us, "you can pick me up whenever you want, you know. Come get me after my lunch." UGH so cute. In his little orange camp shirt and blue hat! I've got to admit, packing his lunch is more fun than I thought it would be. (I'm sure the novelty will wear off eventually...) Today I made him a ham sandwich in the shape of a star, black/raspberries, yoghurt, a Babybel cheese, a granola bar, Goldfish crackers, and an apple. (Yesterday I was informed that I did not give him enough snacks. He seemed satisfied this morning.) I also drew a little Kirby and slipped it in so hopefully he sees it and gets a kick out of it. Although knowing him he will now expect me to draw something every day, lol.

And, in the meantime, jnils and I are living our best life! Today we went out for breakfast and to the library and I'm about to have my hair appointment, woohoo! Yesterday I did yoga (!) and we browsed Indigo and by browse I mean that I bought the cookbook I've been loving and considered dropping $50 on a super fluffy white pillow for our couch. We are parents of luxury right now! Haha. But of course, I have to dos to check off too! Speaking of, it's probably time to clean the bathroom, alas.

[0ffthebit]

March PT 2

11. like that - doja cat, gucci mane

This song brings out the absolute freak in me. It has that much power. Also saw one of the greatest Drew Starkey edits I've ever seen to this song.

12. your light - daniel seavey

I used to be a big limelight back in the day. It was actually so bad that I had a fan account, and I made a second fan account for a rival boy band at the time called, Road Trip, where me and some of my mutuals "infiltrated" the fandom to make fun of the fans. This was one of the first songs off of Daniel Seavey's new album that caught my eye.

13. lost in japan - shawn mendes

Every so often I stumble upon this song and absolutely cannot help but listen to it on repeat. I don't know what he put in this song, but it is addicting. This day was my mom's birthday and as I spent the day baking her birthday cake, I danced around the kitchen to this song on repeat. For those who are curious I made a german chocolate cake with coconut pecan frosting.

14. sick dogs - hey, nothing

My best friend invited me over to her birthday party and unfortunately, I started my period that day. My periods are actually the worst and the entire hour I was at her house I felt like I was going to have a panic attack, something I've experience on multiple occasions because of how drastic the pain can be. However, that wasn't even the worst that happened, I ended up puking up blue in her small bedroom trash. I haven't puked since I was seven. I chose this song mainly because it has the word "sick" in it and that's what I felt like for that day.

15. relationships - haim

something always goes back to Drew Starkey. I cannot help it. That man has me in a chokehold and I'm into it. I have a flag of him on my bedroom wall and I've convinced myself that our 12-year age difference isn't so bad. I've always rewatched the music video of this song one too many times for him. Despite Drew Starkey, this song is so good, and I have become a fan of HAIM now. WOOHOO! I'm excited for new music from them.

16. phases - prettymuch

Another boy band that Why Don't We fans had beef with. What was up with that truly? Like why couldn't we coexist with one another? I can't believe I felt the need to secretly like this song, embarrassing. Now, I'm proudly obsessed with this song, and it makes me think of cool summer nights.

17. on my own - niall horan

Niall Horan, Cillian Murphy, Nicola Coughlan, Sinead O'Connor, Oscar Wilde, Graham Norton, Ayo Edebiri, Barack Obama, what do all these people have in common? IRELAND! I love Ireland and the Irish so I knew from the moment I woke up that morning that I would be ending the day with adding a song by someone from Ireland and I decided why not start with the person that had put the country on the map for me. Thank Ireland for Niall James Horan!

18. makeup drawer - isaac dunbar

a genuine bop that that makes me want to sway aggressively back and forth. I also had just gotten 6 makeup palettes that I had bought online arrive at my house.

19. the winner takes it all - abba

Another devastating Hunger Games edit taking over my for you page. That fandom is never happy.

20. spring into summer - lizzy mcalpine

"Spring into summer and the winters gone I try to hold on to it but the currents too strong."

With the rapid climate change the seasons have begun to blend into each other. Winter is like a weeklong and spring has morphed into summer. I felt that although this song is very springy sounding to me, I would use it to help encapsulate my feelings on this change because I'm always going to run back to the colder months and wish for the difference. "If I could jump into the past, I'd only change one thing" bring awareness to our dying earth far sooner.

[afk-brain]

nevermind i got a funnier idea than my previous cursed image:

what can i say the ceaseless watcher ships them

Posting this separate from the rest of the post cuz 1. Don't wanna accidentally spoil TMA for delusionalpockets if they do end up listening to it and 2. the "maybe the real Ceaseless Watcher was the fandom we made along the way" has WAY too many notes as-is and I want this masterpiece to stand apart from it.

also I need to do more fearpocalypse drawings because I'm genuinely really proud of how the actual hellscape itself ended up. I don't think I've seen a “barbed wire fence as the horizon” thing before, which is really fun for several reasons (panopticon being a prison tower, humanity being imprisoned by the Entities after the Change, the megalophobia aspect of it, etc.) and I'm really proud of the idea :D

[littlefreya]

ok i don’t know if this has been done before but what about groom!sy, garter toss and no panties (or like really nice lacey ones??)

i adore everything you do, kisses!💋

Summary: It's your wedding day with Sy and the big bull is nervous.

Pairing: Captain Syverson x Reader (no mention of body type or ethnicity)

Words: 840

Warning: 18+, Minors DNI. Mostly fluff, implied smut, very light fingering.

*No permission is given to repost, translate or copy my work or parts of it.*

A/N: I am pretty sure lots of writers did Wedding!Day Sy :) but I'll take my pick at it. Not beta'd.

A Husband's Duty

Anxiety was an odd stranger to Captain Syverson. Forged in the scorching desert sand and iron, the sturdy man could count the times he experienced stress on one hand, and whenever he did feel mildly nervous, he dealt with it in the only way he knew best - punching something.

There was no punching anyone tonight, not even once his stress levels hit new records and a sheen coat of sweat cloaked his ridged brow. Surrounded by all these people, being in the spotlight and seeing you in that dress turned the strongest man you knew into a stammering, panting, head-scratching fool.

War was nothing compared to a wedding. Explicitly speaking - his own.

So Sy did the one thing he hoped would cool his nerve and downed a shot and then another and another, until his bowtie hung loosely around his neck and a great devilish smile slapped across his face.

"There she is!" He chimed, his strong hand wrapping around your waist and hauling you flushed against him.

"Sy!" A squeal left your throat as he squeezed you too tightly, but seeing the golden bliss on his face, you immediately chuckled and offered him the sweetest smile.

"You are my wife, now," he provoked and reached a hand to your nape in order to pull you into a fierce kiss, "I can do what I want."

"Is that so?" You teased and playfully smacked his wandering hand that threatened to grab one of your breasts.

The tunes of the hired band played an old country-rock song while a crowd of people inched closer and circled the two of you. Tipsy as he was, Sy's eyes gleamed with burning mischief, slowly he lowered to his knees, yet not before he pressed his bristly chin against your chest.

Right there, in front of everyone you knew, in front of the camera snapping shots, you allowed Syverson to venture down your body and descend to his knees. A familiar tingle of lust ran shivers through your spine while your gaze followed his movement in silent admiration.

Sy kept his ocean-blue stare upon you, even while his hands slipped below the silky hem of your white dress to touch your body. You had to still a moan as his blazing hands smoothly roamed up your legs, although your shut eyes and the arch in your spine were enough to give it away.

"Woohoo! Big Sy!!!! Big Sy!!!" You heard the audience cheer for your new husband.

Encouraged by the crowd, Sy hiked the dress to your thighs, just enough to find the creamy piece of garter and slip a wandering finger below the strap.

"Hmm..." He lingered, and his eyes grew suddenly severe.

Another peal of shuddering quakes rummaged through your muscles; you recognised that look well; it was the same look he gave you whenever the desire stirred in his cock.

Sy lowered to plant a tender kiss above your knee, allowing one hand to travel further below your dress and feel your rear. Flames licked up your neck and cheeks, and your eyes widened at his with alarm while Sy simply grinned and crooked an eyebrow at the outrageous discovery -

You were completely bare below your dress.

The wicked smirk on his lips stretched further, causing his cheeks to round with joy at the delightful surprise. Discreetly, he drew his fingers to your petals and gathered the dew that formed between them with a tender stroke.

"Naughty kitten," he mouthed, only for you to see. His mouth ghosted over your skin, the fumes nearly driving you insane while at the same time his fingers continued to toy with your entrance. Glossy-eyed, you begged him with nothing but a glare, to which he chuckled and then sank his teeth to bite on the garter and began peeling it off.

The crowd chanted louder, clapping ecstatically at your display of public affection, unaware that while Syverson made a show of removing the belt, his fingers were stroking back and forth between your lips.

You did all you could to stifle any mewls of pleasure. For the first time in ever, you were thankful as Sy finally drew his touch from your hot little cavern. The moment the garter slipped past your ankle, the large man rose to his feet and with a roar of triumph, twisted the flimsy strap of garment around his index finger and threw it to the crowd.

"C'mere, kitten!"

Without any warning, he pulled you toward him once again and with ease flung you into his arms.

"Sy! Be careful!" You chuckled and wrapped your hands around his neck.

Love burnt on the Captain's stare, he heard not the cheers, nor the music that boomed within the room. In fact, he gave no care to anyone but the woman who was in his arms and had no shame and no anxiety as he opened his mouth to speak, "now I can't wait for everyone to fuck off, so I can perform my duties as a husband."

Credits:

I do not own Sand Castle or Captain Syverson

Beautiful dividers by the beautiful Miss @firefly-graphics

[bcdrawsandwrites]

(Please reblog if you want to, don’t repost! Do not post to Pinterest or any other website!)

[ID: A traditional drawing done in ink and colored pencils of Mario riding Yoshi, both of them looking joyful. Yoshi resembles his appearance in Super Mario World, but slightly more elongated, while Mario is closer to his appearance in the Mario and Luigi games. Yoshi is shown in profile and is running to the left, his head and body leaned forward as he looks back at Mario. Mario is sitting on Yoshi’s saddle and looking back over his shoulder, his right hand gripping one of Yoshi’s spikes and his left hand up in the air as he gives his traditional victory hand sign. On the upper left of the page is “Woohoo!” written in blue ink, while in the bottom right is written “Super [name redacted] Super Star! Mario” with Charles Martinet’s signature below it. /end ID]

I drew this pic in roughly one sitting, which took more than a few hours. I’m pretty happy with it, given I don’t do full traditional pieces much these days!

And if you read the ID there—yes, Charles Martinet signed this! I got to meet him and he was super nice!! I’ll always remember this.

[aerialworms-art]

I posted 15 times in 2022

That's 15 more posts than 2021!

7 posts created (47%)

8 posts reblogged (53%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@fellshish

@desdemonasarahmckenzie-art

@chapeldean

@kotumari

I tagged 15 of my posts in 2022

#spn - 8 posts

#my art - 8 posts

#castiel - 6 posts

#fanart - 5 posts

#dean winchester - 4 posts

#destiel - 3 posts

#supernatural - 3 posts

#30k dean - 2 posts

#reblog - 2 posts

#i know how this website works i swear - 1 post

Longest Tag: 117 characters

#it's so weird to see my clothes drawn out. like yes i did draw and paint this but like. those are mine give them back

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

URL change

@d-ood-le-bug -> @desdemonasarahmckenzie-art

For clarity’s sake, and also because I kept forgetting the third hyphen in my url and it was getting annoying lmao

I’m just gonna post my art on here. I’ll probably go back and change the watermarks on my art if I can.

4 notes - Posted November 16, 2022

#4

Quick and messy doodle turned profile pic for my main blog @desdemonasarahmckenzie (and my AO3 account, desdemona_sarah_mckenzie, since I’ve always wanted my icons on here and over there to match) :) Yes, that’s me hugging Cas. No, I have no shame.

[Image ID: A brightly coloured and simply drawn self-portrait of me, with short spiky brown hair, glasses, and a blue plaid hoodie hugging Castiel, who is smiling slightly. I’m saying ‘Too precious for this world ❤′. The background is the gay pride flag. /End ID.]

7 notes - Posted November 16, 2022

#3

I drew a little Cas in a comfy jumper to motivate me, have some motivation too!

[Image ID: A biro drawing of Castiel from Supernatural.  He is shown from the shoulders up facing the viewer, and is smiling. He is wearing a knitted jumper. In a speech bubble, he says ‘You can do it!’ The artist’s signature ‘IE’ is written by his right shoulder. /.End ID]

10 notes - Posted March 30, 2022

#2

[Image ID: A cartoony watercolour painting of Dean and Cas with black lineart. Dean is waving a big banner that says ‘30k!!!’ in the rainbow pride flag colours while he leans in and kisses Cas forcefully on the cheek. He’s wearing jeans, a green flannel, and an AC/DC t-shirt. He has his arm around Cas’ neck. Cas is smiling and holding Dean’s hand. His other arm is around Dean’s waist. He’s wearing his usual trenchcoat and suit with his backwards tie. There’s rainbow confetti all around them. /End ID.]

[Image ID: Same as the previous image, only the banner is now a rainbow pride flag. /End ID.]

Woohoo!! @fellshish’s Dean post got 30k notes and I got to make some bonus art to celebrate!!! I guess these two are celebrating too!!!

I painted this in meatspace so I could add a pride flag just for funsies :D 

98 notes - Posted August 4, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

Just cuddling with your homies, nbd...

I caught up on @fellshish’s amazing substack fic Dean Daily (now on ao3!) since it finally ended (I’m only crying a little, I swear!) The Jun 28th entry wormed its way into my brain (they got matching tattoos! and Cas was healing them!!!) and I just had to do fanart! 

I might write a little ficlet, but the headcanon for this image is that they’re watching a gay movie together (y’know, so Dean can see if Cas made his confession in a gay way or if he’s just uhhhhh a real good friend), and Dean can’t tell if the glow of grace is from the TV or from Cas <3 Obviously he’s going to be completely normal about it :)

(ID under the cut)

[Image ID: A digital drawing of Dean and Cas sitting on a comfy sofa, facing the viewer, illuminated by an off-screen TV. The room behind them is dark. Cas has a bee-patterned blanket on his lap and a comfy blue knitted sweater. Dean is wearing jeans, a green flannel, and a Queen t-shirt, which is covered by the flannel so only the Queen logo and the letters ‘QUEE’ are showing. 

Cas is leaning against Dean, who has his arm around Cas’ shoulders. His other arm is resting on his knee and that hand is clenched into a fist. Cas’ right hand is on Dean’s left knee, and his other is holding Dean’s forearm, half-turned towards the viewer. They both have matching black angel wing tattoos on their left wrists. 

Cas’ eyes are closed and he is kissing Dean’s tattoo, and grace is glowing from where he’s kissing. Dean is blushing and has a shocked expression. The artist’s blog name ‘@d-ood-lebug’ is sideways to Dean’s left.. /.End ID]

[Image ID: A partially animated gif of the image described above. The TV light flickers throughout. Dean’s eyebrows rise from a neutral position and he blushes as Cas’ grace begins to shine over his lips and Dean’s tattoo. These all increase until the match the first image. The grace dims, and Dean’s blush fades and his eyebrows drop back to normal. The gif loops. /.End ID]

196 notes - Posted July 22, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[bimbosupreme]

mephistopheles love post

the equivalent of a mental breakdown tangent is all going under a read more

yes believe it or not that freaky ass literally not even human clown in fgo gets love, and love from who? me and like 3 other people

first off

ok and with that out of the way,

i’m not even familiar with their lore. Reason why i stopped caring about the lore behind faust and mephistopheles is that an interlude happens that shows that mephistopheles is just some homunculi made by some mage nobody named faust. and even then the interlude doesn’t talk about the lore behind the novel, its just you helping mephy kill faust

that being said though i would hope the developers expand on their origins more and potentially even release a “true” mephistopheles (a girl can dream)

So, they’re not even the real deal demon known as Mephistopheles in the first place, and i can hear u going “well that’s lame” and like, no, we just need to redirect our feelings from appreciating a demon to appreciating a homunculi who has a weird characterization in the fate universe

Design tangent:

Fgo was actually my first gacha, and so when I came across this servant I kinda instantly fell in love with their design, I love the colors used in their final ascension and overall appearance. The hat that has horns but they're not quite horns, theyre these weird colorful pointy twisty things, the large garish butterfly ornament on their chest (which isnt ugly at all and somehow works so well with their everything on them) is cool, the tights are so cool to look at, i mean look -- a checkered pattern with golden lining on the shorts portion, the tits out look like yes we get it youre insane, the gloves??? purple and also cool, plus theyve got this gradient thing going on? and the fingers have this line going through them, thats so cool. actually the only other servant that comes close to this in terms of “out there” colorful designs is probably final ascension kama and qsh ( i love them both). Also, mephy has this scissor weapon?? thats so cool lol i dont see any other servant wielding giant scissors (for the love of god give mephy an animation update i need to see them use the scissors while doing flips) and they also have this bomb obsession going on? cant relate, but the bombs designs are so so cool i mean its a fucking centipede -- no idea if centipedes are a thing in the original faust but thats something Ill have to look up at some point. ALSO mephy is wearing heels oh my god anytime people wear heels is an automatic win. No clue whats going on with the hair but its kinda cute (dont question me on that) and it has curls and the hair colors are cool i mean its like a lavender thing with darker purple highlights? i love colorful things and i love people with wacky personalities so. Oh my god their tail how could i forget that its so cute and dumb i almost forgot it was there, like what is that even a whip? i dont.. but its got these little purple tips to them that are kinda cute/cool but more cool because tails are fucking up there alongside heels in terms of cool stuff on characters. and of course their fluffly cape -- again no idea what the designers were going for i mean look its a mess of a design i have no fucking idea what any of it means and i hope they explain it someday because that hair and the butterfly and the tail and the hat and the fluffy garb and a bomb obsession?? and this got the go ahead - yeah lets add that to the game like what

ALSO LETS TALK ABOUT THEIR EYES

appreciate these with me for a second

god.

oh and the blue lipstick and face paint god thats a cool design ugh

they can be normal too or at least as normal as possible i mean they even trimmed their eyebrow here lol but you can see the not so well hidden insanity/goofiness peaking through with the inside of the suit at the bottom being highlighter purple and a green shirt with gold accents underneath the black coat at the front <3, fuckin hate that hairstyle tho bro we gotta get that middle part hairstyle outta hereeeee--

TAKE A DETOUR AND LOOK AT THIS LINK THOUGH THIS IS THE MOST NORMAL AND BEST IVE SEEN THEM IN FANART. THE POTENTIAL IS THERE. WE CAN HAVE NICE THINGS AND THEY LOOK GREAT ITS POSSIBLE. I HAVE TEARS STREAMING DOWN MY FACE FROM THAT DRAWING.

anyways this is me going off all about why i like their design! but we haven’t even touched the nitty gritty of it all. their personality! what personality you may ask? havent they always been some weirdo laughing a lot and saying dumb shit all the time? well yes and no

Characterization:

True to their dumb little clown design mephy also acts like one.

Some servants bond 1 lines are like “fuck off” and some actually talk to you, nah this bastard mephistopheles’ just laughing. and for the second bond line it seems to imply theyre fuckin with you more (showing up and dissapearing and saying ‘afterimage’) so thats nice that theyre actually making some effort to mess with you in a way? some servants take a long time to actually interact with you so this shows theyre not afraid of interacting with you and thats just at bond 2. and of course the third bond line implies they were probably trying to betray you, its stated in more than 1 place that mephistopheles (actually isnt this a caster class thing?) will betray you or attempt to do so. So the third bond line seems to imply that their attempts have been stopped by you and that’s what they say after some failed attempts. So after stopping this freak from doing some shit their next bond line is actually doing a confession! a jester being honest who couldve seen that one coming but theyre 100% not lying, they really arent a demon but a homunculi made by faust

speaking of faust we’re going to backtrack a little into their interlude that i brought up at the start of this post, its one of those dream interludes and it starts with mephy asking you to help him plant bombs for their eventual reuinion/showdown with faust -- in the meantime faust keeps sending golems in an attempt to kill both you and mephy

When you track faust down, it’s shown that faust was your typical mage, inhumane and uncaring. It’s also pointed out that this faust killed innocents, but this typical mage behavior is boring to mephy, and they say that boring typical behavior is why they wanted to kill them

 so i really cant blame mephistopheles for being the way they are, being raised by this type of guy, even if mephy was always messed up and wacky from the beginning its no reason for faust to attempt to kill him.

Mephistopheles also shows up in salem, cu alter’s interlude, and of course the knk crossover event, and some other things im most likely forgetting but those 3 are ones that i find notable

anytime they show up theyre actually helpful, in salem mephy points out that the nature of the being responsible for the salem epic of remnant is something alien rather than a typical foreign god, mephy also tells you that time is also being sped up and in their weird way they try to cheer you up by spouting some nonsense at the beginning (guda needed some kind of distraction from the grim events that had just transpired at that point in the story), i cant quite remember what mephy did in the knk event but they were a part of your group and were helpful the whole time, actually @/zeravmeta does an amazing analysis of their role in the knk event as well as some extra character analysis here

mephistopheles is kinda cryptic in a weird way though,

like overall i mean theyre a jester homunculi in appearance so yeah its to be expected but come on i love morally gray characters, despite their supposed betrayal hints scattered around here and there

they have this one line that always gets to me

and this line is said with a completely serious face too

the rare serious mephistopheles face! its kinda grim to see that line, no laughs, no nothing, their voice is kinda serious and monotone too. of course this could be just to get you to lower your guard but its still kinda out there that they have this rarely used portrait and that line, so i like to take it as being said to you when youre by yourself and with sincerity

and at least sei (with her wacky outfit and all lol) seems to get along with mephy and thinks theyre nice woohoo

so at the end of the day you have this guy that laughs a lot and gives mixed signals

and they fuck with you

and will most likely try to kill you more than once but hey thats just another tuesday at chaldea

Before I finish last thing I want to point out is this snippet from the fgo source material book which provides more information on servants, and this specific translated bit under mephistopheles

at the core of it all this homunculi....can be your friend! you just need to not go into despair i guess

of course this entire post is an overanalysis into an underwritten character, quarantine + all online college classes have done this to me, i have a douman icon what did you expect

OH...BEFORE I REALLY SIGN OFF AND FINISH THE POST HEY CLOWN LOVERS CHECK OUT THESE FANARTS AND FANARTISTS...

THE FIRST ONE IS HASENDOW YES THE DOUMAN DESIGNER... <3

i cant believe they drew mephy

twice !

and for those of you on twitter check out @cuz_pb and @L0VEYAMA003

[mrsalwayswrite]

Anchor in the Waves- Chapter 3

Woohoo!! We made it! Here is the rescue!! 

Warnings: graphic violence and an disturbing image (i’m so sorry) but the worst is behind us! yay!

All translations are via google...and there is ALOT of translations. Our “couple” finally gets talk for more than 3 seconds! Finally! 

Reminder there will be an epilogue after this. I’m hoping to have that up this weekend since i’ll have some more time. 

Tag List: @happyveday​ @evelynshelby​

The arduous trek from the ship to the slavers' tents above the beach seemed to sap all the energy out of Finan. Certainly, it could not be enough for the beaten, starved slaves to carry their own bodyweight. Oh no, they were forced to carry pelts for trade. Their captors walked alongside the line of chained slaves to encourage cooperation. 

 In front of him, Uhtred stumbled in the sand, his pack of pelts slipping to the sandy ground. Landing on his knees, he stayed down. Just staring at the ground, his shoulders hunched over, head bowed. He looked like a man who had forgotten the sweet taste of freedom. Bound and chained was all he knew, all he expected in his life. So very different from the man who first boarded the slave ship last year. 

 Immediately, Finan dropped to his side, tugging on his arm. "Get up, ya have to. That's it, get up."

 "Move it, slaves!" One of the Danes screamed, quickly approaching from further down the line.

 Uhtred staggered to his feet with a grunt, eyes unfocused. Without a word, he picked up his pack of pelts and continued onward up the hill.  

 Readjusting the pack on his own back, Finan looked up to see how much further they must go. The sandy ground made walking laborious with the added weight of the pelts. He hoped they received a respite once they reached the top. Though the cynical part of him doubted it. These Danes cared nothing for their slaves, working them until they were skin-covered bones and one foot in the grave. 

 At the top of the hill, Finan could see Master Sverri standing there surveying. Next to him cowered Aine. 

 A jerk on the chains pulled Finan back from his staring. He followed the procession of slaves, keeping one eye on the unsteady ground and another on her. Since leaving Islond, he laid eyes on her only one other time. She had been marched from the back of the ship to the front and then later marched back. He guessed they were keeping her in the protected compartment where they stored the trading goods. Hopefully it would keep her from the worst of the sea. 

 When they reached the top, Finan met her eyes for as long as he could. She stared back with terrified eyes until Master Sverri shoved her to the side and she toppled, due to the chains around her ankles tripping her. 

 Without a conscious decision, he took a step as if to help her but the shackle around his ankle prevented him, along with the jeers of the Danes. So he kept moving; eventually to stand under a tent, free of the pelts but still bound. One of the other slaves wondered out loud if they would be fed and watered but another slave scoffed. Finan kept silent. 

 Rubbing his hands together to create warmth, he kept an eye on Uhtred, standing just in front of him. He knew what was wrong, why Uhtred had become a shell of himself, even more since they climbed out of the ship. He had seen it himself. Halig’s body. Still strapped to the front of the ship. The sight of it caused bile to rise in Finan’s throat. The body had been defiled by the waves and curious creatures in the water. Ropes still wrapped around the ankles and wrists, holding him prisoner. Even in death. 

 Shifting his gaze, Finan looked across, trying to locate Aine once again.  He worried what it meant for her to be here. Was Master Sverri planning on selling her? Leaving her here? Or would she continue to travel with them as his own personal slave while on the ship? Thoughts of her fate filled him with both dread and rage. He promised to keep her safe, to free her. He could not do that if she was sold to another. 

 To his surprise, Master Sverri walked towards the group of slaves, followed by a Dane with a black eye patch and a few others in their wake. 

 What transpired next was something out of a fever dream surely. 

 The Dane with the eyepatch tried to goad Uhtred into fighting him. By the way that Master Sverri and the other Danes treated him, this one-eyed Dane was someone of importance. The man had a sword tossed at Uhtred’s feet, pulling his sword out casually. 

 "He's too weak." Finan said, begging for this not to happen. Hoping there would be mercy. Hoping Uhtred would not take the bait, that he would stay submissive for once. He could see Uhtred's arms and legs quivering from fatigue and weakness. After all they had been through, after all they endured, he could not bear to watch Uhtred die. Especially by this pompous arse. This could not be his end. 

 It did not matter. The fool still picked up the sword and threatened the one-eyed man, showing more life in that moment than he had since Halig was taken. "I will kill you."

 "Uhtred, I am pleased you will try."

 Finan thought he would witness his friend, his newfound brother in all but blood, be decapitated. Fallen to his knees before the one-eyed man, Uhtred just watched as the one-eyed man drew back his sword. Finan covered his mouth with his hand, willing himself not to cry out. He closed his eyes, unable to watch what would surely happen. Death. Uhtred's death. At least it would be swift. Yet he could not witness this. He refused to. 

 Just when the sword was to be swung...horses burst over the ridge and charged the Danes. 

 He stood frozen in shock. Saxons, a woman and a large blond Dane rode through the slavers and those that came with the one-eyed man, killing them without hesitation. The Danes ran haphazardly, none fighting back but moving like rats escaping a sinking ship. Shouts and battle cries replaced the sounds of the crashing waves and seagulls. 

 It was chaos. It was mayhem. It was a slaughter. 

 None of the slaves moved, none dared believed what they saw before their eyes. Was this freedom or new masters? What would become of them? Their shock and chains kept them stationary. 

 The large, blond Dane approached Uhtred, claiming to be a name named Ragnar. At hearing Uhtred's broken voice, his silent plea in just the utterance of his name, Finan felt tears come to his eyes. 

 "Free them all." 

 Finan looked around as he felt one of the Saxon soldiers hammering away at the chain with a sword. He stepped out of his shackle, an almost euphoric feel. He was free. They were free. No more rowing. No more chains. No more beatings. 

 Finally free…

 With that thought, he started scanning around for the one he promised freedom too. He had seen her last when Master Sverri tripped her. Where would the bastard have taken her? Finan took a step forward, his gaze searching everywhere. She had to be here still. She must be. 

 Movement on the far side of the tents, drew his eye. Master Sverri stumbled, a hand pressed to his ribs...and at his side, he forced Aine to walk, pulling on the rope wrapped around her wrists. She followed slowly, looking over her shoulder continuously as the other slaves were being freed. She stopped at one point, eyes wide and mouth parted. The stilted movement caught Master Sverri off guard. He yanked on the rope but when Aine refused to move, digging her feet into the ground. He grabbed her forearm roughly and pulled, forcing her compliance. 

 The Irishman knew what he had to do. What he wanted to do. What he had dreamt about for almost two years...and now no one would stop him. 

 Without looking away from his target, he snatched the sword lying next to Uhtred and stalked over. His legs threatened to buckle under him due to the weight of the sword. A familiar feel, a sword in hand. A piece of him clicked back into place as his fingers curled around the handle. A warrior. He was a warrior once again. 

 "Finan…" Aine mouthed his name like a prayer as he drew closer, never taking her gaze off him. Her brown hair hung limply in its usual braid down her back. Her dress was torn and dirty.

 It was as he came closer, the simmering rage under his skin rose into an inferno. Closer now he could see the bloodied lip on her dirty face, the bruises on her cheek and wrists, and the haunting, dark circles under her eyes. Yet it was the way she watched him approach, not out of fear even though his intent was evident, a sword in hand and flames in his eyes. Hope and awe gleamed in her bronze eyes. She watched him as if he were a conquering hero from childhood stories. Which could not be further from the truth. 

 A snarl grew on his face as he surveyed her pain. Not directed at her, no, never at her...but at the one who inflicted it. 

 Master Sverri turned around, hearing his staggering approach. His gaze met Finan's and hardened. "What, slave? Come to kill me? Come to take the bitch?" Angrily he threw down the end of the rope and shoved her away, making her stumble. "Take her. She's useless anyway. Take her and go!"

 "Aye, but first ya must do somethin'."

 "What?" He sneered, hand still pressed to the wound on his side.

 With that, Finan thrust the blade through the slaver's throat. His blue eyes bulged and blood seeped into his mouth, painting it red at the intrusion. "Pull." He commanded then withdrew the blade. It slipped out, covered in red, an offering of the bastard's life force. Finan watched the man whom he swore to kill, fall over dead. His blood staining the sand below. 

 Finan stood there for a long moment, staring down at the crumpled form of the bastard. It was over. He should feel relieved, elated, avenged. Right now though, he just felt exhausted. His hand shook with the weight of the sword still hanging from it. His body felt on the verge of collapsing from the adrenaline coursing through him. It was the sound of a shaky breath that reminded him he was not alone. 

 Looking up, he met Aine's wide eyes. Both stared at each other in unbelief. 

 “Rinne tú é. Shaoradh tú mé.” She whispered, bottom lip quivering. Slowly, as if her feet were unsteady, she stepped closer to him, eyes still holding his. (You did it. You freed me.)

 Suddenly remembering the rope binding her wrists, he dropped the sword in a rush. Reaching forward, fingers fumbling, he untied the rope then watched it fall. That sight, even more so than the dead body near them, gave him pause. She was free...and that bastard could never touch her again. He fulfilled his promise. 

 Gently, almost hesitantly she touched the tips of her fingers against his cheek, bringing his attention back to her. His eyes closed briefly unconsciously at the soft touch. So long he longed for her gentle touch, to save and protect her. Now it was done. They were free. He opened his eyes to see fresh tears escaping from both her eyes. Carefully he cupped her cheek, using his thumb to wipe away the tear and grime on her fair skin. 

 A quiet sob broke from her lips. “Rinne tú é, Finan.” (You did it, Finan.)

 As if drawn together, they collapsed in the sand, arms around one another. Tears streamed down both of their faces unhindered. Neither paid attention to those looking on. Their captors were dead. Blood still coated the sword used to kill the man they both loathed. Years of pain, torment and despair was released as they clung onto one another, their tears cleansing more than just their faces. 

 “Táimid saor, a stór, táimid saor in aisce.” He whispered repeatedly into her hair, unsure if it was reassurance for himself or for her. It all felt like a dream. Yet as she just held onto him tighter, her face buried in his chest, he knew it was no dream. (We are free, my treasure, we are free.) 

 They were free.

 *****

 The fire crackled before her, providing warmth and light against the darkness of night. Aine stared at the flames dancing. For the first time in years, her stomach was pleasantly full and warmth hugged her like a long-lost friend. 

 The others around the fire conversed, particularly the Dane- Ragnar. He spoke to Finan's friend, Uhtred, about what was occurring in the different kingdoms. 

 Aine only half paid attention. None of it interested her truthfully. The places and people mentioned meant nothing to her. The words flowed around her carelessly, her main interest was the flames and sensation of being warm and fed. 

 Anxiety rose in her chest as she peeked at strangers around the fire. She tightened the blanket around her shoulders, more for the self-comfort than the needed warmth. The action drew the eye of the man to her side. Finan tenderly reached over and slipped his fingers between hers. She squeezed back, surprising herself when she leaned over and placed her head on his shoulder. They had only held hands in the past, pressed their foreheads against the slats, pretending to touch one another. Now that they could actually touch, actually hug and be close, she found herself unable to be far from his side. She also trusted him completely. His presence was a solace she desperately needed, especially amongst all the new strangers. Her mind preyed on her fears that she would be alone, discarded eventually. Yet with him by her side and his promise repeated in an endless loop in her mind, she fought back the fears. 

 Finan broke the uncomfortable silence that descended over the small camp. "So, ya Uhtred's brother...ya look nothin' like each other."

 Aine smiled while the others laughed. 

 "Eat." The fighting nun said, trying to pass the extra food to the ex-slaves. Uhtred silently declined, bringing a frown to her kind face but she relented. Next, she held out the bowl towards Finan and Aine. 

 Finan peeked at Aine, giving her hand a brief squeeze to get her attention. When she gave a small shake of her head against him, he looked at the nun. "Our tongues are small and our feet have barely touched dry land...it'll take a little while."

 That seemed to satisfy the nun. She smiled at them and set the bowl back down, no longer pressing the issue.

 "And you," Ragnar pointedly looked at Aine. "How did you come to be here?"

 Stiffening as he seemed to examine her, she hesitated. How could she explain? Would they reject her if they knew? Everything she had been through, the thought of laying it out in front of all these strangers made her mouth dry and throat close up. All she wanted to do was forget it all. 

 When Uhtred spoke, it surprised everyone. His voice was rough from disuse and crying earlier.  "She gave us food and blankets. She kept us alive."

 Ragnar nodded, eyes softening as he looked from Uhtred back to her. "Mmm...for that you have my thanks."

 Finan pressed his cheek to the top of her head, drawing a small smile from her. The group sat quietly for a time, the crackling of the fire and the distant sound of the waves embracing the silence. 

 "The night is late. We need to rest." The nun said, standing up and dusting off her dress. She looked down at Aine. "Would you prefer to stay near me or…" Her gaze flickered to Finan and back. 

 "Cad ab fhearr leat?" He whispered, giving her the choice. (What would you prefer?)

 Although it was not much of a choice, her answer obvious to her. "Ba mhaith liom fanacht leat. Tá muinín agam asat ... níl aithne agam orthu." (I want to stay with you. I trust you… I don't know them.) 

 Finan looked up at the nun. "She'll stay with me, if ya don't mind. I made a promise to keep her safe and I mean to keep it."

 The nun smiled. "Very good."

 They all settled for the night, each finding their own spot in the grassy plain above the beach. Several fires burned around them, for the warriors and other ex-slaves still lingering about. A few slaves had scattered already but most seemed to be in a state of shock at the change of fate.  

 Aine laid on the grass, staring up at the stars. She snuggled further into the blanket wrapped around her. After all the events of the day, she assumed she would be exhausted and drift to sleep immediately; but found sleep eluded her. The nearby sounds of snores, shuffling, and a few of the warriors talking quietly as they kept guard surrounded her. The ocean waves crashed down on the beach and the call of seagulls could still be heard. She blinked slowly, watching the stars twinkle above. 

 "Caithfidh tú dul a chodladh." (You need to go to sleep.)

 She smiled at Finan's sleepy comment, thinking he had dozed off some time ago. He lay to her right, able to feel his body heat even through her blanket. Initially, he had tried to put some appropriate distance between them but she did not care. After everything they endured, she needed him close. She startled a bark of laughter from him as she rolled over, placing her head against his shoulder. He just pressed a quick kiss to the top of her head and settled back, hugging his own blanket to him. 

 "Na réaltaí ... is cosúil go bhfuil siad níos gile." (The stars...they seem brighter.)

 "Aye?" He yawned, turning to his side to face her. Carefully, he reached over and held her hand. "Téigh a chodladh, Aine. Ní aisling é. Nuair a dhúisímid, beidh muid saor fós." (Go to sleep, Aine. It's not a dream. When we wake, we'll still be free.)

 She squeezed his hand and rolled over to face him fully. Watching him, she brought their joined hands towards her face, rubbing the back of his hand on her cheek. Was that why she could not sleep? For fear that when she woke, she would be back in Islond or on the ship? That this would all only be a beautiful dream to torment her. Or when she awoke, she would be all alone? But this was real though. The feeling of his calloused hand in hers, the rough and chapped skin against her cheek. The grass beneath her and the stars above. This was real. Plus she knew, in the depths of her soul, he would not abandon her. He promised. She would not be alone. Without a second thought, she kissed the back of his hand, tasting the lingering salt from the sea on him. 

 "Ní féidir liom a rá leat cé chomh minic a smaoinigh mé ort. Conas a mhothódh sé tú a shealbhú, teagmháil a dhéanamh leat, tú a fheiceáil ag gáire agus ag gáire." He ran his thumb over her lips, eyes locked on the movement as he confessed his secret. (I cannot tell you how often I thought about you. How it would feel to hold you, to touch you, to see you smile and laugh.)

 "Tá mé anseo ... agus táimid saor." (I am here...and we are free.)

 "Sea, scíth anois.” He tugged her closer to wrap an arm around her waist and guide her head to his chest. "Cosnóidh mé tú." (Yes, now rest. // I'll protect you.)

 *****

 "Are you Finan's woman?"

 Aine startled at the question, looking over her shoulder at the fighting nun- Hild, she said her name was.

 She paid no mind to the sudden tension hovering over Aine as she continued her train of thought. "He seems a good man. Clearly he cares for you...and you him."

 "I... I am not sure."

 Silence settled between them as Hild continued to brush Aine's long hair, trying somewhat successfully to get the knots and tangles out. 

 When Aine woke up that morning, still cuddled in Finan's arms, tears filled her eyes. This was not a dream. It was all still real. She was still free. Finan was safe and free. She pressed her head back to his chest, wanting to linger in the peaceful moment. The feel of his chest rising and falling with each breath, his heartbeat under her cheek, the warmth from the blanket and Finan still swaddling her. It was the most peace she had found in years. 

 A soft growl of her stomach brought her back to reality. Carefully, she slipped out of his embrace, hoping he would sleep as long as he could. Most of the camp was awake at this point, the sun showed it was mid-morning. Hild found Aine before she could even begin looking for her. After eating, they searched for new clothes for herself and the ex-slaves still around. Aine found herself enjoying Hild, the peaceful presence of this woman was something Aine did not know she craved until she found herself dwelling in it. For so long she had lived in constant fear and anxiety. Around the men, Aine still found herself lowering her head, refusing to meet their eyes. 

 Hild brought Aine to a small nearby lake where Aine was able to cleanse the grime, dried blood and saltwater from her body and hair. It felt completely divine. The cold water caused goosebumps to appear on her skin. She wished she could wallow in the water. To have it cleanse her body and her soul... but Hild reminded her the men might want a turn cleaning themselves also. That was enough to get her out of the water and into her new, dry clothes. 

 Now they sat under a large tree, just within sight of the camp but far enough away to have a guise of privacy. Aine picked at the dark blue kirtle they managed to find for her in one of the slaver's tents. She also wore a white shift underneath the kirtle and Hild magically found a thin belt to wrap around her waist. With the new clothes, clean skin and body, and her hair being brushed out, Aine felt a renewal bubbling within her. No longer did she feel like a freed slave. She was a woman again. The feeling of her brown hair, hanging softly down her back, a brush sweeping through the locks, the dress covering her completely, it all felt so normal. Though she knew it would take time before she felt like Aine before her time as a slave...if she ever was that person again. For now though, she tried to enjoy the rejuvenation as she soaked in the sun.

 "What will you do now? Will you join us or do you wish to return home?" Hild asked, interrupting her thoughts. 

 Aine opened her mouth but no words came out. What was to be done with her? What did she want now? Questions she had been denied to even think for years felt like they clogged her throat. She had to make a choice. Would they even want her to stay? 

 Hild must have sensed her fear and confusion for she kindly tapped her shoulder before she rose. "You do not need an answer now. Just think on it. Wessex is a good place to call home. If you do not wish to travel with us. I know of a nunnery nearby you could stay until you decide."

 Aine nodded. Thankful Hild did not press for an immediate answer. 

 "Tell me about...Wessex." She hesitantly said. 

 So Hild spoke of Wessex and King Alfred as they walked back to camp. Aine was surprised to see Finan sitting around a low fire, talking and eating with Ragnar and the scary Saxon warrior- Steapa. As the two women approached, all eyes turned to them. It was the pair of warm, brown ones that Aine focused on. When they noticed her, they widened almost comically, never leaving her own. 

 "Uhtred still sleeping?" Hild asked, moving towards her pack. 

 "Aye." Ragnar answered. 

 Hild hummed then turned to the Irishman. "Finan, we have found some new clothes for you and I can trim your hair if you would like."

 "I'll do it." Aine blurted out loudly, immediately regretting it but unable to retrieve the words from the air. The others glanced at her, Hild raising a single eyebrow. Aine fiddled with her dress, ignoring their looks, as she coughed then spoke up again. "I... I’ll trim it...um, his hair."

 "Aye...aye, that be kind, thank ya." He jumped to his feet as he answered, his gaze only flitting to Hild before returning to Aine. 

 Hild handed Aine her scissors, a small smile on her face and a seemingly knowing look. "When you're finished, I'll take those and find Uhtred. Take your time though."

 A blush warmed Aine's cheeks but she tried to ignore it as she started walking back to the spot her and Hild had just been. Finan followed on her side, frequently stealing glances at her making her blush grow. 

 "Cad?" She finally asked. (What?)

 He chuckled, shaking his head. "Feiceann tú.... álainn." (You look...beautiful.)

 "Tá sé na héadaí." (It's the clothes.)

 "Níl ... is tú féin é." He winked at her when she glanced his way. (No...it is you.)

 Aine bit her bottom lip, casting her gaze downward. Butterflies erupted in her belly. She was unsure why this interaction felt different. More potent. More intimate. She had slept in his arms last night...but this felt different. 

 He sat down where she indicated on the patchy grass. Kneeling behind him, she started to cut his long, unkempt hair. With each snip, each strand of hair falling to the ground, his shoulders seemed to straighten slightly as if a physical weight was being lifted. When she was almost done, his hair cut close to his head, she voiced the very question Hild asked her. Needing to know his answer. Desperate for it. 

 "Ar shocraigh tú cad a dhéanfaidh tú ... nuair a fhágfaidh siad?" (Have you decided what you will do...when they leave?)

 "Ceapaim…" He sighed, rubbing a hand over his scraggly beard. "Ní féidir liom dul ar ais go hÉirinn. Níl aon rud ann domsa, ní tar éis ..." (I think… // I cannot go back to Irland. There is nothing for me there, not after…)

 She watched him clench his fists as if cutting off his words physically. They had never talked about the depths of their pasts, what brought them to slavery. Topics neither one wanted to remember. So, hearing he could not return to Irland shocked her. 

 "An bhfanfaidh tú ansin? Taisteal leo?" (Will you stay then? Travel with them?)

 "Uhtred ... is deartháir dom anois é. Is cosúil gur fir mhaith iad na daoine eile ... agus an bhean atá ag troid." He grinned then looked over his shoulder at her. "Agus tú? Cad a dhéanfaidh tú?" (Uhtred...he is a brother to me now. The others seem like good men...and the fighting woman. // And you? What will you do?)

 What would she do?

 She moved to kneel in front of him, starting to trim at his beard. His eyes pierced as he watched her, waiting for her answer. She knew what she wanted to do, where she wanted to be...but could that be her future? It felt like a lump in her throat, refusing to dislodge. 

 "Mo bhaile ... rinne na Danair ionsaí ar mo shráidbhaile. Maraíodh gach duine ach ... ach an cúpla duine againn tógtha mar sclábhaithe. Níl aon rud ann domsa ach an oiread." She confessed, tears pricking her eyes at the memory. Something she had shoved so far back in her memories she hoped it would never see the light of day. The screams of her sisters, blood coating the filthy hands that held her down, fire reaching into the sky as it devoured her home, the maniacal laughter of the Danes...death...death everywhere she looked. (My home...my village was attacked by the Danes. Everyone was slaughtered but...but the few of us taken as slaves. There is nothing for me there either.)

 She did not realize her hands had started to shake with the memory until Finan clasped them between his, rubbing his thumbs along her skin. She tried to focus on his touch, the calluses on his hands, the warmth they provided, the strength in them. Anything but what she witnessed, of what had so violently been destroyed. 

 "Tá brón orm, Aine." (I am sorry, Aine.)

 His words jolted her back to her senses. Swiftly, she slipped her hands from his, running them over her cheeks and eyes even though no tears had fallen. Without a word, she continued trimming his beard, bringing it to his jawline. He watched as if studying her, trying to read the secrets that lay in her eyes. Biting her bottom lip, she focused on the task at hand, refusing to meet his eyes. Though staying focused became difficult as an incredibly attractive man began to take form under her hands. Once done, her hand rubbed along his jawline, tracing it. Not just for stray hairs but to touch him once again. 

 To her surprise, his hand cupped hers on the side of his face, holding it there. "Fan liom, a stór." (Stay with me, my treasure.)

 She stared at him in shock. 

 "Fan liom. Coinneoidh mé slán tú. Níl a fhios agam cad atá os ár gcomhair ach déanfaidh mé gach rud chun a chinntiú go dtugtar aire duit ... agus sásta ... ach fan." His words seemed to tumble out of his mouth, desperate to fill the air between them. (Stay with me. I'll keep you safe. I do not know what lies before us but I'll do everything to make sure you are taken care of...and happy...just stay.)

 She stroked his cheek, thinking on his words. Could this be her future? This man before her, who befriended her through slats and slavery, who once again gave her a reason to laugh, who became as important to her as the breath in her lungs. Was this her fate? She finally spoke, hesitantly. "Agus má dhéanaim ... cad a bheidh mé?" (And if I do...what will I be?)

 His brows furrowed. "Cad atá i gceist agat? Tá tú saor." (What do you mean? You are free.)

 "Níl ..." She glanced down, scared to meet his eyes but when his thumb skimmed her lips, her eyes returned to his. "An mise do bhean?" (No… // Will I be your woman?)

 His eyes widened momentarily and he sucked in a sharp breath. Before she could retract her hand, waiting for his rejection, he kept it firmly against his cheek. "Ar mhaith leat é sin? An é sin a theastaíonn uait?" (Would you like that? Is that what you want?)

 "Sea." She whispered. (Yes.)

 "Sea?”  A grin spread over his face. "An bhfuil tú cinnte?" (Yes? // Are you sure?)

 "Thug tú ar ais an saol dom ... shábháil tú mé. Is mian liom a bheith le do thaobh." (You brought me back to life...you saved me. I wish to be by your side.)

 He cupped the back of her head, bringing their foreheads together. "Aine, a ghrá, níl tuillte agam duit." (Aine, my love, I do not deserve you.)

 "Tá tú agam ar aon bhealach, más mian leat mé." (You have me either way, if you want me.)

 "I gcónaí, riamh ó thug tú orm gáire a dhéanamh sa pheann, ag insint dom conas a mhallaigh mé agus sin mar a bhí a fhios agat gur Éireannach mé. Sin nuair a bhí a fhios agam ... theastaigh uaim leat mé." (Always, ever since you made me laugh in the pen, telling me how I cursed and that's how you knew I was Irish. That's when I knew...I wanted you with me.) 

 Aine huffed a laugh. "Ní raibh ansin ach an dara huair a thug mé cuairt ort." (That was only the second time I visited you.)

 "Is cuma. Ba tú mo dhóchas agus mo shlánaithe..." He rubbed his thumb over her bottom lip. "... Ba mhaith liom tú a phógadh anois." (Does not matter. You were my hope and my salvation… // ...I would like to kiss you now.)

 "Le do thoil…" (Please…)

 He tipped his head, slanting his lips over hers. Even though they were wind-burnt and chapped, tasting of salt and the stew he had been eating, Aine thought she had never tasted anything better. His hands held her face so delicately, his lips touched her with such reverence like she was a treasured prize. Never before had someone touched her with such care, such adoration. It was addicting. They broke apart after a moment. A short and sweet kiss that brought giddy smiles to both of their faces. 

 "Mo bhean ... mo ghrá ..." He murmured, carding his fingers through her hair. His eyes alight with devotion and a lazy smirk on his lips. (My woman…my love…) 

 She beamed, warmth streaming from the top of her head to the tips of her toes. For a moment she wondered if this was a dream. The two of them sitting there in the sun, faces still so close, one hand on his cheek and the other on his chest, his hands in her hair. Her lips still tingled with the taste of his kiss. Here was someone who wanted her, cared for her, protected her. She would not be alone. 

 “An aisling é seo?” (Is this a dream?)

 He chuckled, nuzzling her as he pulled her closer. “Más ea, níor mhaith liom múscailt.” (If it is, I do not wish to wake.)

 It had to be impossible for her heart to flood even more with affection for him...but somehow it did. Without hesitation, she leaned forward and pressed their lips together. This kiss lasted longer than their first and ended with her mostly in his lap, hands in each other's hair and both breathless. Their chests rose and fell heavily as they beheld one another. The air around them thick with unspoken promises and declarations in the morning sunlight. Both of their lips swollen and red from the sudden passion, hair slightly messy now but neither cared. So much pain and torment had led to this moment...this moment of perfection. 

 Finan raised his eyebrows, mischievous gleam peeking past the dilated pupils. "Ó? An é seo an rud a chaithfidh mé dul i dtaithí air? An bhfuil tú ag goid póga uaim?" (Oh? Is this something I'll have to get used to? You stealing kisses from me?)

 "Mmm ... tá amhras mór orm go dtroidfidh tú an iomarca ar ais ach más fearr leat pógfaidh mé duine eile ..." (Mmm...I highly doubt you'll fight back too much but if you prefer I kiss someone else…)

 He slammed his mouth against hers, cutting off her words. She giggled through the kiss but returned it with equal ardor. When he finally released her, his lips hovered over hers possessively. "Riamh." (Never.)

 "Go maith."She wiggled out of his lap, even as he tried to pull her back down. She stood up and faced him, pointing a finger at him. "Má aimsím tú ag pógadh duine éigin eile, gearrfaidh mé do choileach as." (Good. // If I find you kissing someone else, I'll cut your cock off.)

 He stared at her dumbly for a second then threw his head back laughing uproariously, something she had never seen him do before now. She decided the sound might be her new favorite thing and she hoped to hear it every day in the future.

 "Bhí a fhios agam go raibh tine ionat." He teased, rising to his feet. (I knew there was a fire in you.)

 She shrugged. "Tá Gaeilge agam." (I'm Irish.)

 "Go bhfuil tú ... mo Ghrá." He stepped closer. Pressing his forehead to hers, he entwined their fingers together. "Cuirimid tús lenár saol nua anois, le chéile."  ("That you are...my Iove. //  We start our new lives now, together.)

"Le chéile." (Together.)