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prettywordsyouleft · 5 years

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Mistletoe Manor - Part 2

Summary: Christmas is the most important time of year for all those who live within Mistletoe Manor. From the staff to the Hawthorne family themselves, everyone works hard to ensure that the festive season is a success every year! We invite you to see if everyone can pull off another magical Christmas at the manor this year.

Pairing: Park Seo Joon, Bang Yongguk, Brian Kang, Jung Daehyun, Jung Jaehyun, Lee Taeyong and OCs.

Genre: regency au / romance / christmas au

A/N: Becky ( @noona-clock ) and I wanted to create a magical Christmas for everyone and what better way to do that than at Mistletoe Manor! Because of the nature of having several idols, we chose to work with OCs and we hope you love them as much as we do.

Mistletoe Manor will be posted daily at 10am NZST / 4pm EST daily.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Grace always loved her winter stay at Mistletoe Manor. She had gone every year since she was young, and being the only child within her family, having the three Hawthorne sisters to play with eased her yearning for siblings of her own. She and Cassie were close in age and thus bonded more naturally than she had with her younger cousins, though she equally held them close when she stepped out of the car that wound around the entryway to the manor.

“Oh Grace, I’m so glad you are here!” Evie exclaimed and whilst Grace chuckled, she was surprised by her avid greeting.

Josephine moved in with a knowing smile. “She’s been waiting by the window for you all morning, much have I. Though our reasons differ. Evie is hopeful you come with a new book or two from the city.”

“That I have indeed,” Grace announced and the middle sister grinned brightly. As the shy and somewhat overlooked Hawthorne girl, Grace had a soft spot for whenever she was blessed with a genuine smile from Evie.

She turned back to the youngest upon her arm. “And what is it you have to tell me?”

“How expectant, cousin. I haven’t even gotten you through the door and you are waiting for my firsthand gossip.”

“Considering Cassie is nowhere in sight to greet me, I assume she will be of topic?”

Joey grinned. “You know me too well.”

“And so do I,” the eldest announced once they were within the grand entrance of the manor. Grace smiled widely as her dearest friend stepped forward to embrace her tightly. When back at arm’s length, Cassie shot her sister a playful smirk. “She plans to tell you all about my woes.”

“Well, if you haven’t yet sent word of them, perhaps she should have already.”

“You’re here now; I can easily fill you in myself.”

“Always ruining my fun,” Joey breathed as the others giggled together. “Still, let me be the storyteller for our events with the festival thus far. It’s the least you can allow me to speak of!” Once settled in after her trip, and sharing lunch with the family, Grace was immediately thrown into festival tasks with the sisters. They planned out the stall layout for the market and worked on accepting proposals the townspeople had sent in for the event. It was well into the night after stopping for supper when Grace was reminded that she had not heard any of Cassie’s troubles.

“You haven’t even been here a day,” Cassie quipped as they walked along the hallway towards their rooms. She smiled at her cousin. “Can’t it wait until tomorrow? How about a walk on the grounds before coming inside to do more preparation in the morning? I will share it all with you then.”

Grace nodded, giving Cassie a kiss goodnight on her cheek. “I will hold you to it!”

And so, the very next morning after breakfast was seen to and both ladies were ready for the day, they stepped out together, Cassie hooking her arm through Grace’s, patting her forearm affectionately with her hand. “It’s lovely out.”

“Winter is not quite with us yet, you’re right.”

“Come, I wish to show you the changes we made to the back gardens.”

As they made their way around the estate, Grace and Cassie chatted about the happenings over the past few months they yet hadn’t spoken about on the telephone or through letters. The conversation stayed light for some time, Grace knowing her cousin was skirting around her issues. She would allow her to until she was ready to speak of them, knowing Cassie often needed time to process her wording.

Though, when Cassie finally started to open up, Grace’s attention had fallen short. Waving her free hand dismissively at Cassie, Grace gripped onto her lower arm. “C-Cassie?”

“I was finally telling you, and – oh.”

They stood watching the proceedings ahead of them in the field, the young man lining the log up before bringing his axe down upon it. Beads of sweat ran down his face, indicating he had been long at work; much did the pile of chopped wood to the side. Grace couldn’t help the way her mouth fell ajar at the performance before her and it wasn’t until Cassie giggled that she broke away from her reverie.

Which was timely since her laughter had travelled towards the labourer. He glanced up at them and put down his axe as a smile broadly widened out his lips.

Oh my.

“Jaehyun, it’s so nice to see you today. Is the weather good enough for it?” Cassie greeted, now not so subtlety dragging Grace along beside her. Whilst she had managed to snap out of her daze, Grace didn’t wish to get any closer to the gorgeous man.

At least, not right now.

“My Lady! It’s a lovely time to go for a stroll. And with a friend, nonetheless,” he replied, turning to Grace and bowing politely. She found herself curtseying numbly and Cassie stifled another laugh.

“Jaehyun, this is my fondest cousin, Grace. I’ll see to it that you give her a tour of the gardens tomorrow, will that suit?”

Jaehyun glanced between them both and then nodded happily enough. “It’d be a pleasure. Miss Grace, would you like to meet me after breakfast?”

“I – uh, well. Yes, that would be wonderful.”

“Jaehyun is the newest gardener here. I was going to show you his amazing work in the back gardens myself, but I feel it would be better to learn more from the master himself.”

“I wouldn’t stretch it as far as that, My Lady, but I welcome your praise all the same,” he replied with a chuckle and Grace couldn’t help but smile in return.

She should have expected a handsome face would accompany such charming words as well.

“Shall we continue on our walk, cousin?” Cassie prompted and when she looked to the woman at her side, Grace could see how much she was gleaming with delight. It was a Hawthorne trait and Grace groaned inwardly. She could only hope Joey wouldn’t catch wind of this.

The following morning, Grace was a bundle of nerves. She had chastised Cassie all the way back to the estate house, her cousin’s laughter piercing through her annoyance until she couldn’t help but laugh herself. There was no humour within her this morning, however. Smoothing out her dress for the umpteenth time, she flinched when she saw movement behind her in the mirror.

“Evie.”

“Are you alright, cousin?”

“I… could be better,” she answered, smiling exasperatedly, her reflection concerning her. If this was how she appeared now without even seeing Jaehyun, how would she possibly face him today and keep composed?

Evie grinned, rubbing at Grace’s upper arms gently. Cassie had let it be known the reason for Grace’s disappearance from this morning’s schedule and Joey’s teasing was still fresh in her mind. Grace knew that Evie would be much gentler in her approach. “Do you like him?”

“Well, I don’t even know him. Aside from that he’s rather talented with an axe.”

“You missed out on the summer here, cousin. It got so hot and he would often take-”

“I’ll not go if you continue in fear I might faint.”

Evie giggled. “So you do like him then.”

“He’s easy on the eyes, yes.”

“Hm, he’s not bad. Without a shirt on-”

“EVIE!”

Wringing her hands together as she walked outside, Grace tried to walk straight and proud. She wasn’t normally this affected by men; she had no desire yet to follow in Cassie’s footsteps down any aisle. Thankfully, she had more than enough to inherit from her family estate and there was no pressure to find anyone to share that with either. Further, although she enjoyed love stories almost as avidly as Evie did, Grace hadn’t ever entertained the idea that she could step into one.

An affluent woman and a gardener was definitely not one she had read, admittedly.

“Good morning!” Jaehyun greeted and she jolted with fright, the man rushing over to silently give his apologies.

Grace awkwardly laughed it off. “I’m fine, good morning.”

“Shall we go take a look then? I’m afraid there are not many flowers blooming as such but-”

“I like autumn colours,” she interjected and Jaehyun nodded, smiling again.

“So do I.”

As Jaehyun led Grace around the garden, she found herself relaxing into his company. He definitely knew a lot and she was fascinated by how easily he spoke of it to her as well. Jaehyun was comfortable to be around, and it showed when they began to converse about their personal lives too.

“I beg my pardon, I shouldn’t have talked about myself like that,” Jaehyun told Grace as they took a seat upon the bench in the middle of the back garden.

Grace shook her head. “It’s quite alright. I find it interesting talking with you.”

“Can we talk together more often then?” he asked earnestly, and then scratched the back of his head awkwardly. “I uh, I enjoyed your company today, is all.”

“I’d be more than delighted to.”

Whenever Grace could, in between working with her cousins or the numerous outings they took, she would go out to find Jaehyun, satisfied to sit and write in her journal as he tended to the land. And whenever he would take a break, he would come over and sit beside her, trying to read what she had written down.

“I’m curious, will you ever share what you scribble down in here?”

“I most certainly do not scribble.”

“What’s that then?” he wondered and she glanced down at her book in confusion, gasping when he took it out of her hands and leapt to his feet. Scrambling up after him, she chased him around the field, shrieking when he would flick through the pages.

“It’s private! Jaehyun!”

He suddenly stopped, which Grace wasn’t quite ready for, colliding into his side with a soft thud. Although his face was already flushed from running, his cheeks deepened in colour as he glanced down at her. “You wrote a poem about me?”

“I –”

“No one has ever written about me before,” he murmured, his gaze casting back to the paper. “It’s beautiful.”

“There’s another,” she boldly told him, reaching up to take the book from his hand and flipped several pages over. Jaehyun scanned the cursive quietly as Grace chewed on her bottom lip anxiously. This poem was her favourite she had penned this year. It was full of hope for a future she had come to envision over the past month here at Mistletoe Manor. November had finally arrived, bringing forth the beginnings of festive cheer. And she hoped she would have a hand to hold within her own when the festival kicked off at the end of it.

“Grace,” he breathed, blinking slowly.

“Yes, Jaehyun?”

“Would it be improper if I kissed you right now?” he asked, turning his head just enough that it allowed her the opportunity to stretch up and position her lips in front of his. It flustered him and she giggled, somewhat breathlessly herself as her heart hammered in her chest. Jaehyun sucked in an unsteady breath. “Can I?”

“Yes,” she managed right as his mouth melded with hers, pressing softly into her. They stood there joined for what felt like all afternoon, smiling against each other, hands linking together once her journal was safely put away in her pocket.

As Jaehyun walked her back to the manor, hand in hand, he let out a soft sigh. “Will this be accepted by everyone?”

“Not everyone, but if you’re worried my cousins will be dismayed that I have fallen trap for your charms, then you can stop now. They have been rather persistent in telling me of their thoughts of you.”

“All agreeable, I hope,” he replied with a smile and then tilted his head a little. “And my charms? Why, I’m just a mere gardener. You are the one who enchanted me, Grace.”

“Is that so? I think it might have been your axe that started this all.”

“Huh?”

Grace shook her head, laughing lightly. “It’s nothing. But I hope this Christmas we’ll be able to announce we’re something.”

“May Christmas come sooner than planned then.”

_________________

Part 3

[Christmas 2019 Masterlist] | [Main Masterlist] | [Request Guidelines]

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stardustchordz · 5 years

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🖤🖤🖤

20 Dollar Nose Bleed - Fall Out Boy

Alone Together - Fall Out Boy

American Idiot - Green Day

America's Sweetheart- Fall Out Boy

And The Snakes Start To Sing - Bring Me The Horizon

The Anthem - Good Charlotte

Apologize - OneRepublic

The Ballad Of Mona Lisa - Panic! At The Disco

Bandito - Twenty One Pilots

Basket Case - Green Day

Boy Division - My Chemical Romance

Brick By Boring Brick - Paramore

Bulls In The Bronx - Pierce The Veil

Burn Bright - My Chemical Romance

But Its Better If You Do - Panic! At The Disco

Camisado - Panic! At The Disco

Can You Feel My Heart - Bring Me The Horizon

A Car, A Torch, A Death - Twenty One Pilots

Carolyn - Black Veil Brides

The Carpal Tunnel Of Love - Fall Out Boy

Cemetery Drive - My Chemical Romance

Chasing Cars - Snow Patrol

Crazy = Genius - Panic! At The Disco

Crushcrushcrush - Paramore

Cute Without The E - Taking Back Sundays

Cut My Lip - Twenty One Pilots

Dance, Dance - Fall Out Boy

Dead! - My Chemical Romance

Death Valley - Fall Out Boy

DESTROYA - My Chemical Romance

DONTTRUSTME - 3OH!3

Dying In LA - Panic! At The Disco

Emperors New Clothes - Panic! At The Disco

Face Down - The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus

Fake Happy - Paramore

Fake Your Death - My Chemical Romance

Fall Away - Twenty One Pilots

Fallen Angels - Black Veil Brides

Famous Last Words - My Chemical Romance

Far To Young To Die - Panic! At The Disco

Girls/Girls/Boys - Panic! At The Disco

Go To Hell For Heavens Sake - Bring Me The Horizon

Gun - My Chemical Romance

Guns For Hands - Twenty One Pilots

Hard Times - Paramore

Headfirst For Halos - My Chemical Romance

Helena - My Chemical Romance

Honey, This Mirror Isn't Big Enough For The Two Of Us - My Chemical Romance

House Of Wolves - My Chemical Romance

I Dont Love You - My Chemical Romance

If You Cant Hang - Sleeping With Sirens

Ignorance - Paramore

I'm Not Okay (I Promise) - My Chemical Romance

In The End - Black Veil Brides

I Write Sins Not Tragedies - Panic! At The Disco

Just One Yesterday - Fall Out Boy

The Kids Aren't Alright - Panic! At The Disco

The Kill - 30 Seconds To Mars

King For A Day - Pierce The Veil

Kiss The Ring - My Chemical Romance

Knives And Pens - Black Veil Brides

LA Devotee - Panic! At The Disco

Leave The City - Twenty One Pilots

Let's Kill Tonight - Panic! At The Disco

The Light Behind Your Eyes - Panic! At The Disco

Lying Is The Most Fun A Girl Can Have Without Taking Her Clothes Off - Panic! At The Disco

Mama - My Chemical Romance

Misery Business - Paramore

Miss Murder - AFI

My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark - Fall Out Boy

Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na) - My Chemical Romance

Nearly Witches (Ever Since We Met...) - Panic! At The Disco

Neon Gravestones - Twenty One Pilots

New Years Day - Black Veil Brides

Nicotine - Panic! At The Disco

Novocaine - Fall Out Boy

Ohio Is For Lovers - Hawthorne Heights

The Only Exception - Paramore

Planetary GO! - My Chemical Romance

Playing God - Paramore

Roaring 20's - Panic! At The Disco

Save Rock and Roll - Fall Out Boy

S/C/A/R/E/C/R/O/W - My Chemical Romance

Shadow Moses - Bring Me The Horizon

SING - My Chemical Romance

Stacy's Mom - Fountains Of Wayne

Still Into You - Paramore

Sugar, We're Goin Down - Fall Out Boy

Summertime - My Chemical Romance

Surrender The Night - My Chemical Romance

Sweet Blasphemy - Black Veil Brides

The Taste Of Ink - The Used

Taxi Cab - Twenty One Pilots

Teenagers - My Chemical Romance

That's What You Get - Paramore

This Ain't A Scene, Its An Arms Race - Fall Out Boy

Thnks Fr Th Mmrs - Fall Out Boy

Tomorrow's Money - My Chemical Romance

Trapdoor - Twenty One Pilots

Twin Skeletons (Hotel in NYC) - Fall Out Boy

We Dont Believe What's On TV - Twenty One Pilots

Welcome To The Black Parade - My Chemical Romance

What A Catch, Donnie - Fall Out Boy

Where Did The Party Go - Fall Out Boy

The World Is Ugly - My Chemical Romance

Young Volcanoes - Fall Out Boy

#my chemical romance #fall out boy #panic! at the disco #Paramore #twenty one pilots #black veil brides #pierce the veil #bring me the horizon #snow patrol #mcr #fob #tøp #p!atd #2020 #emo #playlist #spotify #music

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rmg91 · 5 years

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The Woes and Antics of Living Together-10; Prank War

AN Edit, 8/14/19: I want to thank you all soooooooo, so much for all the wonderful comments you've left so far! I know I don't reply to all of them (at least on ff.net) but please know I love seeing them and appreciate all the love you've given this fic! I actually wrote this chapter back in like...April/May and while I maybe should've done a few things differently I still like how it came out and I hope you all do too!

So this chapter was really, really hard to start. Not because of the content but because at the time I was going to start it I was dealing with a lot of real life thinks, the biggest being we had to put one of my cats to sleep and it was really hard to find the motivation/inspiration to write. I almost thought this would become like all my other half-finished fics and never get done but with sheer determination and being boosted by all the wonderful comments I'd gotten so far, I kept trying until the muses responded and gave me something to work with. So without further ado, Chapter 10.

Prank War time!! Also this is the chapter where Branch and Poppy apparently unconsiously flirt with each other XD

Previous Chapter/Next Chapter; AO3/FF.net

@writerofberk-I think (and hope) you’ll like this chapter c:

@hair-in-the-air-I know you’ll like the ending of this chapter, heeheehee~

~*~*~*~*~*~

It was a few weeks after The Incident, as Poppy was dubbing it in her mind, and for the most part they had moved on from it. Poppy had been a little awkward around Branch for a few days and he had been a little more irritable than usual but they had managed fall back into their sort of routine. Being distracted by classes and work had helped of course and now they could concentrate on more important things. Like Poppy's current prank war with the Snack Pack.

What had started as a few silly jokes -jump scares, drawing on faces, fun with puns- had quickly turned into elaborate plans to get whoever was the current victim. Guy had tricked them all into wearing shiny disco outfits for a day by telling everyone there was going to be a Retro Day at the university. Of course when they made their epic entrance they were the only ones in costume and Guy was filming them. They all, of course, still had fun, even after Smidge chased Guy around campus.

Satin and Chenille somehow found the time to pull the classic of covering someone's car in sticky notes on Suki. The Dj had been quite surprised to come out of class one day to find her car completely covered in written on sticky notes. Most were teases from the twins but there were a few from Guy asking the tangerine haired woman out. What the twins hadn't expected was for Suki to get them back by wrapping their car in saran wrap the next day.

Smidge had tricked all of them in believing she no longer loved pranks by claiming she was tired of them. She kept them believing it for two whole days until she caught them in a massive water balloon bombing. And then Biggie had somehow managed to find the time to wrap all their things in wrapping paper, tame by comparison sure but their big hearted friend could never find it in him to play mean pranks on anyone.

The latest prank had been by Cooper, who had gotten Poppy by replacing all the middles of a carton of Oreo's with toothpaste.

The young pink haired woman was currently in the midst of setting up her revenge on her friend by filling up a large bucket with as much glitter as she could find. She planned on the classic of a bucket falling on the victims head but with her own twist. Giggling in a rather evil way, Poppy finished filling the bucket almost to the brim before carrying the pail to the front of the art building. Guy and Smidge were helping her set up, as they had also eaten some toothpaste filled cookies, and they were eager to see their tall friend covered in the colorful cocktail of glitter Poppy had mixed up.

Passing the bucket up to Smidge, Poppy watched her attach it to their rig that would spill it all over Cooper when he walked through the door. Once they were certain it wouldn't fall by itself and ruin the prank, the three cleared away the step stool and trash and hid behind the corner as Poppy opened the camera app on her phone. Guy made the call to Cooper telling him to come quickly and now all they had to do was wait for him to show up.

However as they were so focused on the door, they didn't noticed their dreadlocked friend come up behind them, “Hi guys! So what'd you need to see me for?”

“Aaah!”

“Oh my god!!”

“Cooper!” Poppy cried as she turned around, “You were suppose to come through the main door!”

“I was?” He asked before laughing, “Sorry!”

The trio sighed at their oblivious friend before a sudden cry and crash of a bucket falling came from around the corner. The cry had even sounded very familiar to Poppy as she peeked around the side to see a now thoroughly glitter covered Branch standing in the doorway. She couldn't help the snickers that escaped as she watched him growl and shake some of the tiny sparkles off, the bucket slowly turning on the floor.

The raven haired man glanced up with a glare as he heard her and yelled, “Poppy!! What's the meaning of this?!?!”

“Sorry, Branch!” She said, walking over to him, still trying to contain her laughter as her friends giggled behind her, “That wasn't meant for you.”

Branch scoffed and brushed more glitter out of his hair, “Oh yeah, the giggles really sell that.”

“Really!” She exclaimed, “Although...” More snickering escaped as she gestured to him, “You're really making that work. Heehee!”

Glowering at the pinkette, Branch stepped up to loom over her, “Careful, Poppy. You don't want to face the wrath of the Prank King, do you?”

“Ha!” She laughed, giving him a disbelieving look as she crossed her arms, “You? The Prank King? I think not.”

“Oh yeah?” He asked, raising an eyebrow, “Who won all of our prank wars as kids?”

Poppy scoffed, “Pffft, please. We were kids.” She smirked up at him, “You don't have what it takes to take me on, Bud.”

“Oh really?” He smirked back.

“Really, really~”

Branch gave her a rather predatory grin, “Then bring it on, Princess.”

~*~*~*~*~*~

Poppy was on her highest guard for the rest of the day and into the next, she even spent the night at Smidge's just to make sure Branch didn't get the opportunity to prank her at home. She made sure to keep an eye out for him as she made her way around campus, making note of anything that seemed suspicious. She avoided him whenever she could and went as far as sitting in the front row of their shared class, he wouldn't be getting her to sit on any whoopie cushions or brownies. Was she going just a little too far? Maybe but the so called 'Prank King' wasn't going to get the drop on her! She was the Queen of Parody and she wouldn't be de-throned.

Approaching the end of the day, Poppy was confident that she had managed to thwart any attempts Branch could have made during at school. Now she'd just have to avoid him at their apartment, or at least make it very difficult for him to prank her back, a little more complicated but not impossible. She was happily making her way down a hallway, stopping here and there to talk to other friends, heading toward the door that would lead her toward the parking lot. Maybe if she got home before Branch did she could whip up a batch of cupcakes and then preemptively prank him before he got her? Hmm...but how to get him to take the treat if she did?

Taking a chance look out a window, she couldn't help but notice her roommate outside walking down the path, phone in hand. The pinkette stopped and tilted her head to the side, wondering what he was up to as he never walked around texting or playing games on his phone like that. He always claimed it wasn't safe and people were bound to run into something! Watching him disappear around the corner, Poppy scrunched her face up in suspicion and hurried to catch up with him. The hypocrite wouldn't get away from her!

So focused on catching up with him, Poppy harshly pushed open the door and didn't notice the bucket falling on her head until it was too late.

Stopping in shock at being covered in some soft, sticky substance, the young woman lifted the bucket off her head and wiped at her eyes. She wondered briefly what it could be until the familiar sweetness filled her nose and she recognized it as vanilla frosting. How in the world did Branch managed to get this much frosting?! Blinking, she looked up to see her roommate standing a few yards away, smirking at her. He then bowed and saluted her before turning and walking away.

That little-!! How dare he?!?!

“Ooooh...” Poppy growled, hands fisting, “Just you wait, Hawthorn. I'll get my revenge,” She licked some frosting off her thumb, “And it'll be sweet.”

~*~*~*~*~*~

After a thorough shower to wash away all the frosting in her hair and starting a load of laundry, Poppy brainstormed for what she could possibly do to get Branch back before he got home. Humming as she looked through the cabinets for something to eat, she caught site of a lone can frosting. Hmm, Branch wouldn't suspect her to use frosting in her prank against him, would he? But what could she put it in...

Taking a look around, she'd have to choose something that wouldn't be obvious for a prank set up. Nothing in the kitchen, too obvious, and nothing in his room for now as he'd be too suspicious and check everywhere. Groaning, Poppy bounced on the balls of her feet as she tried to shake some idea out. Of course, rushing would make her sloppy but then again if she didn't figure something out soon, she may run out of time. Grabbing her phone, she decided to turn to the internet for inspiration and if that didn't help, she'd text the Pack. Her friends could always come through in a pinch.

Although it looked like that wouldn't be necessary as one of the first few suggestions would be perfect. Poppy grinned and cackled evilly, Branch was in for a surprise.

~*~*~*~*~*~

It was a few hours later, quite a few hours more than Poppy thought he'd be out, when Branch came home. He dropped his keys in the small bowl by the door, glad he didn't have to worry about tripping over any of Poppy's shoes since they added the shoes rack and wandered into the kitchen. He looked around, trying to find anything out of place before glancing at the pinkette on the couch. She was seemingly just innocently playing a game on her phone but he knew her better than that. She'd had plenty of time to set up a revenge prank.

“I'm home...” He said, tone betraying his suspicions.

“And rather late too,” She gasped dramatically as she looked up, “And it's a school night!! Such a delinquent! Whatever were you doing?!”

He glared at her, unamused with her antics, “I was playing video games with Gristle. He's a sore loser and wanted a rematch. Now what did you sabotage?”

She giggled, going back to her phone game, “Tsk, tsk, Branch. You know I wouldn't tell you that. If I did anything that is. As it stands I'm waiting till you fall into a false sense of security before getting my revenge. Nobody dumps frosting on me without paying.”

“Right...” He didn't believe her for a second but currently had no proof that she was lying.

As Poppy went back to her game, he subtly inspected the kitchen for any pranks laying in wait. Finding the cabinets free of fake spiders and the faucet free of plastic wrap and no fake gross food in the fridge, Branch concluded it was safe. Grabbing an apple, and inspecting it to make sure it was indeed real, he wandered into his room to thoroughly check for any tricks. Finding his bed and drawers empty of itching powder or sneezing powder, closet free of anyone waiting to jump out and his desk chair free of glue alongside anything else he could think of, he decided to trust that Poppy hadn't done anything to his personal effects either. Still, he didn't trust her to not have done anything in retaliation and he wasn't about to let her catch him off guard.

Unable to think of anything else to inspect at the moment, the raven haired man yawned and decided he'd have to place some tentative trust in Poppy for not having sabotaged anything yet. Also he was locking his door tonight, he didn't trust her that much to not sneak in and do something in the night. Quickly changing into some pj's, Branch made his way to the bathroom to brush his teeth. However as he opened the medicine cabinet for the toothpaste, he thought better of it and grabbed the new one from below the sink. He wouldn't put it past Poppy to have somehow messed with the opened one.

Squeezing some onto his toothbrush, Branch would have began brushing his teeth, if it had tasted right. Feeling the substance dissolve in his mouth and licking some off the toothbrush, he growled. That little witch! She went and somehow replaced it with frosting!! Mint flavored frosting! Slamming his toothbrush on the counter he stormed out of the bathroom.

“Poppy!!” She had the gall to start laughing as he came to stand in front of the couch, “Seriously?! The toothpaste?!”

“Hahaha! That'll teach you! I told you no one gets away with dumping frosting on me.” She smirked before sashaying her way over to him and poking him in the chest, “Face it, Branch. You're fighting a loosing battle here. Because while you may claim to be the 'king', you're nothing compared to the Queen~” She leaned in close with a smug look, “And this is just the beginning.”

It took all of Branch's willpower to not grab her and kiss that smug look off her face, for there was something insanely attractive about a smug Poppy, as he watched her go toward her room. And if she thought he was going to give up now, she was oh so wrong, this was only the beginning and Branch would be the victor. The Prank King would reign supreme.

~*~*~*~*~*~

The next few days were filled with various pranks pulled on one another, starting the very next morning. Poppy really should have expected a retaliation from Branch for the toothpaste. The prank? The sugar jar replaced with salt. So when a sleepy, not awake pinkette came shuffling out of her room and started pouring herself a cup, she didn't suspect that the white granules she spooned in wasn't the usual. Until she took a sip that is. Her nose had wrinkled and as she made a disgusted face, Branch couldn't help but laugh and snap a quick picture. Poppy had glared and shook her head at him, claiming 'not cool' before finding the sugar to make a proper cup.

Her revenge was simple but a classic. A pie in the face. Spending a quick hour in the Home Ec. kitchens, Poppy whipped up a plain crust before filling it with homemade whip-cream. She even made sure it was towering as high as she could make it, since Branch loved his whip-cream. Waiting until he was distracted with studying, thankfully somewhere outside, she approached as casually as she could with a pie held behind her back. Glancing quickly to where Smidge was recording this for a vlog, Poppy asked if Branch knew there was something on his face. As soon as he turned to ask her what she meant, she cried 'This!' and smashed the pie right in his face. She and Smidge laughed joyously as Branch sputtered and cursed, jumping up and wiping cream off his face. He glared at Poppy and bit out that she was in for it.

Branch had to wait to get back at her as it was extremely difficult to catch Poppy off guard when there were pranks around. The opportunity was finally granted when Branch came home a little earlier from work than usual. Poppy was asleep on the couch, in the aftermath of an afternoon of babysitting, and was dead to the world. Grinning, he had quickly and quietly grabbed the can of whip-cream from the fridge. Sneaking over to spray it in her hand, Branch couldn't help but take a moment to gaze at her. She hardly ever seemed to slow down so for him to catch her asleep and unaware was a rare treat. She was just so beautiful, inside and out, he had to take his chance to take it in. If he had a heart he wouldn't ruin her slumber but she started this war and he wouldn't give up until she caved.

As quietly as he could, Branch had maneuvered one of her hands to cup the whip-cream before spraying a pile. He then stood over the back of the couch and tickled her nose with a feather he found in her craft boxes. Nose twitching, the pinkette lifted the cream filled hand up to get the itch. Coming awake with a start, she stared at her hand before spying a smug Branch standing over her. Pouting, she stuck her tongue out at him before getting up and claiming he was immature. He promptly responded he was just putting himself on her level with a smirk.

After some brainstorming, Poppy opted to prank Branch back by painting his bar soap with clear nail polish. She would have done the classic of some hair dye in his shampoo but the jerk had been hiding his from her. She was however soon rewarded with Branch storming out of the bathroom, sadly dressed, waving the soap in the air. Thankfully she had managed to dodge it when he threw it at her as she was laughing. He then claimed he'd get her back with something she wouldn't expect.

~*~*~*~*~*~

That something was an unexpected find at the grocery store as Branch had been brainstorming the rest of the that week's dinner. Grinning from their small balcony as Poppy walked down below, Branch waited from the perfect opportunity to dump his bucket of balloons on her. Sure water balloons weren't too original, but water balloons filled with special watercolor dyes were. They would make his perky and confident roommate regret ever starting this prank war on him by, temporarily, making her into a walking rainbow for a few hours.

Watching as she stopped to talk to one of their neighbors for a moment, Branch quickly readied the bucket on the railing to dump it once she was done. Just as she waved the neighbor goodbye, the poet quickly shouted to her before pouring the bucket over. Multi-colored tiny balloons spilled out and rushed toward the ground where they broke all over Poppy and the sidewalk. Branch chuckled as Poppy stared up in shock at him before her face transformed into a look of rage and she stamped her foot. He saluted her and watched as she began marching herself inside.

“I can't believe you did that!!” She shrieked about five minutes later as she came inside, “Water balloons?! Really?!”

“Hey, what can I say,” He smirked as he shrugged a shoulder, leaning against the balcony door, “Can't really mess with a classic. Although I did put my own spin on it. Try not to drip too much on the furniture though.”

Poppy huffed, chest heaving and Branch was eternally grateful she wasn't wearing anything that became see-through when wet, “I'll get you for this! Just you wait!”

“I'd like to see you try.” He smirked as it took all his willpower to remain casual because he was quickly discovering an angry Poppy was just as attractive as a smug Poppy, “Maybe you'll even come up with something that isn't as lame as your last prank.”

“Oh-ho-ho! You think my last prank was lame now, huh?” She crossed her multi-colored arms, “Then prepare to feel the rain, mister, because I'm gonna pour the best prank on you. Ever!”

“Water-puns? Really? What? Gonna throw water balloons on me too?”

“Oooh...Shut up!” She punched his shoulder before storming off to the bathroom. He was gonna pay so much for this!

~*~*~*~*~*~

Ok, so Branch had sort of called it and she was gonna return the water balloon assault but the difference was going to be that she had the Snack Pack on her side. Giggling maniacally, Poppy couldn't wait until Branch came down the pathway. Everyone was already in position, Cooper and Biggie were hiding behind some bushes on the right, while Satin and Chenille hid on the left. Suki was kneeling behind a tree and Smidge was beside Guy behind a bench armed with super soakers. Poppy herself was hiding behind a trashcan as she waited for visual before she made herself known to the target.

Creek had briefly tried to talk her out of this, insisting that this prank war had gone on long enough but Poppy hadn't listened. She was determined to make Branch admit she was the prank master. After that the guru had sighed and wandered far away from the splash zone to watch the incoming carnage.

“Poppy, target is incoming,” Came Biggie's voice through the walkie-talkie, “Are you sure about all this?”

“Yes, I'm sure. Now everyone, hold position and wait for my signal. Heh-heh-heh, it's showtime.”

Peering around the trashcan, the pinkette watched Branch walk just past where Biggie, Cooper and the twins were hiding before popping out. She casually wandered up a few steps before stopping as Branch noticed her. He frowned at her and the water balloon she held in her hand.

“So you are copying me. Psh, and I thought you were original.” He said, crossing his arms.

“Oh, Branch, you simply can't mess with a classic.” She smirked, “But you're not the only one who can add their own spin to something. I'm not gonna just throw a water balloon at you. I told you, I'm bringing the rain.” She then grinned evilly before shouting, “ATTACK!!!”

“Wha-?!”

Branch didn't know what hit him as all members of the Snack Pack popped out of hiding and began pelting him with balloons. He tried to get away but was stopped as Smidge jumped in front of him and sprayed him from her water gun. He tried to find another way to escape but it was difficult to form any sort of plan as the small projectiles hit him. Their laughter surrounded him as they continued their barrage with Poppy's being the clearest of them all. Eventually though they ran out of ammo and it was finally over and Branch was now completely and utterly soaked.

He stood there, water dripping off him, clothes sticking to his skin, spitting water from his mouth as Poppy cheerfully skipped up. He pushed his wet hair out of his eyes to glare at her, “Seriously?!”

“Uh-huh, yep~!” She chirped, “Ready to admit I'm the Prank Master?”

Branch growled and stood up from his hunch to tower over her, “Never.” He then marched off muttering, water logged clothing sloshing as he went.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Branch was still seething later that evening when Poppy came home, happily bounding in through the door. His response to her greeting was a heated glare before going back to his homework, not wanting to hear whatever she had to say. He heard her huff, and he could just imagine the pout she sent his way as she placed her hands on her hips, before she went into her bedroom. If he was smart he'd just go knock and tell her what she wanted to hear and end this stupid war but his pride wouldn't let him. He was going to win and she was going to be the one to admit he was the master of all pranks. He just needed a chance to get her back...

His chance came not forty-five minutes later when she flounced out dressed to go clubbing. Ponytail swinging, Poppy said she'd be back later and to not wait up. Branch watched her leave before grinning slowly, she was naive to think he wouldn't set up a return prank just because he was pissed off at her. Or she excepted it and thought whatever he'd do wouldn't compare to bombing with water balloons. Well, he'd just have to pull out something diabolical then, wouldn't he?

~*~*~*~*~*~

Poppy arrived home well after two am, giggling as she teetered on her high-heels coming through the door. Clumsily locking the door, she giggled again as she spun and weaved her way to her room. A few hours of dancing and singing at a club with her best friends was just what she needed. Plus the few drinks she had didn't hurt either. Prank wars were fun and amazing but it was exhausting waiting for Branch to admit she was the master. Oh well, she'd just have to meet his attempts for however long it took.

“And if you knock, knock me over, I will get back up again...” She sang under breath, opening her door before pausing.

She blinked a few times as it took her muddled brain a moment to process what she was seeing. Not only was her bed completely covered and made neatly in newspaper but it was surrounded by a sea of red plastic cups filled with water. Poppy stood there for a second, momentarily impressed how fast Branch had set this all up as she'd only been gone a few hours, before realizing she'd now have to clean some of it out of the way so she could go to bed.

She'd have to make sure to throw a pillow at her roommate in the morning for this.

Sighing, for all she wanted to do was flop down on her bed, the young woman began picking up cups. After a few passes back and forth to the bathroom, and briefly pounding on Branch's door to get him to come help, Poppy finally had a path to her bed. Finding the edge of the newsprint, she pealed it back, making sure to crumple it loudly in hopes Branch would hear. Tearing more off her pillows, Poppy could finally crawl into bed. However she noticed that apparently one other thing had been done as she tried to slip her legs under her blankets. She couldn't slide them more than a few inches.

Throwing her comforter to the side, she saw her flat sheet was folded in half. She couldn't believe it, not only had Branch made it entirely difficult to get into her bed, he had also short sheeted it! Crying out in frustrating, Poppy flopped dramatically down, uncaring that she was now laying the other way. She'd just sleep this way for the night. Grabbing a pillow, the pinkette made herself comfortable, thought's of how she'd make Branch pay for this swimming in her head.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Poppy spent the next few days trying to plan something worthy to get Branch back with while also, hopefully, drawing him into a false sense of security. She had been brainstorming with Cooper that morning but still hadn't settled on the right prank. She needed something epic, something so out there that not only would Branch be impressed by it but finally, finally admit she was the best prankster ever. If only she could figure out what that was...

Taking a quick glance at her phone's clock, Poppy noted that it was getting pretty late and she had yet to see her roommate since that morning. Wondering where he could be, it's not like he went out to party or anything of the sort, she hoped he was alright. That's when she heard the door click open and Branch come shuffling in.

She listened to him lock it before greeting, “Hey, Roomie. Where ya been?”

“Library,” He grunted, not even looking at her as he dragged himself though the kitchen, “I hope you haven't set up some ridiculous prank because I am not in the mood.”

“What's wrong?” Poppy asked, getting up from the couch suddenly worried. He'd seemed fine this morning.

Branch growled low in his throat, “Bad day.”

And it had started out relatively well too but he should have known things would go bad. They always did. Work had been fine, Reed had even praised him on his ideas to help make the store more organized and efficient but that was the only high point. Branch had missed the first bus back toward the university and had almost missed the second. Then the library had a small power outage which was just enough for him to lose the progress on his English essay, which he then of course had to rewrite. Then he'd had a run in with Creek. That damned guru had decided to not only insult his choice of major and his choice of electives but had of course rubbed it in that if he continued to be a negative person, he'd never find anyone to be with. And of course, of course, he brought up Poppy during that bit and how happy she was to be with Creek, even if they weren't 'officially' dating yet. And the last straw of the day had been when he'd gotten a email from one of his teachers saying he had to completely re-do an assignment for no apparent reason, other than to make him suffer.

Branch just wanted to go to bed and not deal with anything anymore. Even his well meaning and caring roommate, who was looking at him like she wanted to hug him. He held up a hand to stop her from speaking, “I don't care what you have to say right now, Poppy. Just tell me you haven't set up a prank. Or go get rid of it, if you have.”

Poppy bit her lip, wanting so badly to hug Branch right now but knew he'd just yell at her if she did, “I haven't done anything. Promise. I hadn't thought of what to do yet.”

“Good.” He grunted before shuffling off to his bedroom.

“Good night, Branch.” Poppy said after him.

He mumbled something that sounded vaguely like a 'good night' back as he opened his door. He paused however, “Poppy...” He said, voice sounding like his was trying to keep it even, “Where the hell is my bed?”

“What?” The pinkette walked closer and peeked over his shoulder to find his mattress completely missing and a small piece of paper sitting on the box spring, “Uuhhh...I did not do this.”

“Really?” He asked, giving her a incredulous look, “Then who did?!”

“Oh dear...” It just occurred to her that perhaps Cooper could have gotten the wrong idea when they were talking and took her nodding to his suggestions as confirmation to go ahead and execute it, “I-I think it was Cooper. We were brainstorming earlier and oooh...”

Poppy ran back to the living room and grabbed her phone, hitting Cooper's speed-dial as she walked back to stand next to Branch. She listened to it ring, bounding on her toes, and preyed he picked up. When that didn't happen and all she got was his voicemail, she groaned, “Cooper! Call me back as soon as you wake up! Please! You weren't suppose to go through with the prank on Branch yet. I love that you wanted to help but I hadn't decided if that's what we were gonna do.”

Branch watched her hang up, scowling, “You're too nice, you know that?”

“Shush, mistakes happen.”

He rolled his eyes, “Suure, mistakes.” He then huffed and glanced at where his missing mattress should be, “Floor it is. Or I guess the couch.”

“What? No.” Poppy protested, “You are not sleeping on the floor. Or the couch. You'll be even grumpier in the morning if you do that.”

Branch leaned against his doorjamb, crossing his arms, “Then what do you suggest? Hmm? Only two options I have.”

It was Poppy's turn to roll her eyes, “You can sleep in my bed. There's plenty of room.”

“I-What?!” Branch's eyes widen and his brain momentarily shut off as he blushed, she couldn't be serious?! Them? Share her bed?! Nu-uh! No way! Not happening! That was the worse idea in forever! There was absolutely no way he was going to sleep in Poppy's bed, “No! W-we can't do that!! I-it's not-! No!”

Poppy rolled her eyes again, “Psh! On please, Branch. We're both adults here. Nothing's gonna happen. Plus we use to share all the time as kids.”

“Yeah. When we were kids! I am not going to sleep in your bed!”

“Yes, you are.”

“No, I'm not.”

“Yes, you are~”

“No, I'm not!”

“Yep~!”

“No!”

~*~*~*~*~*~

He couldn't believe he was doing this. It was ridiculous, him sleeping in her bed when he could just use the couch. But as always, Poppy had managed to get her way. He groaned as he watched her pull back her comforter and sit on the left side, patting the right side before turning to her picture frame of friends and starting her good night routine. Rolling his eyes as her, Branch eyed her bed like it was going to attack him before stiffly sitting on the edge. Maybe he'd just wait till she was asleep before sneaking out to the couch. Sure, he'd probably regret it come morning but it was better than being in the same bed as Poppy. There was no telling what could possibly happen if he let his guard down and he wasn't about to let his feelings get out because he got too comfortable.

“Hey, Branch?” Poppy said, calling his attention to her.

“What?”

“I...I just wanted to say sorry. For letting this prank war get sort of out of hand. Heh...I forgot how competitive we could be. Truce?”

He sighed wearily before glancing at her, “Truce.”

She smiled, and dammit if he didn't want to lean over and kiss her, before she yawned, “Well...guess it's bed time. And you don't have to sit on the edge like that Branch. Just relax.”

Yeah, right. Like he could relax while laying in her bed, surrounded by her scent and being just a few inches away from her. He didn't say that though and just threw a pillow in-between them. It was fruitless barrier but it was better than nothing.

“What? Afraid I'll bite you in the night, Branch?”

He shrugged, “Yes.” He then tossed his own pillow down and laid down, stiff and as far on the edge as he could go.”

Poppy shook her head, “And you say I'm ridiculous. You need to relax, Bud.”

“I am relaxed. Now go to sleep...and stay on your side of the bed!”

The pinkette heaved a fond sigh before flipping her light off and slipping under the covers, “Good night, Branch.”

Branch made a noise in the back of his throat, “Night...”

He didn't know how long he just laid there, trying not to focus on Poppy every time she shifted or sighed. Branch also tried not to find the combination of vanilla and strawberry shampoo relaxing as he waited for her to fall asleep but soon enough his eyes fluttered closed and his muscles lost tension as he fell into a deep sleep.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Morning came and with it Branch's internal alarm rang to wake him up. He came to slowly, feeling more well rested than he had in years. Sighing calmly, he shifted to sink farther into his pillows, deciding a few more minutes of sleep couldn't hurt. Poppy wasn't the only one who liked to sleep in. Then in dawned on Branch that his pillows were never this fluffy and the sun was coming in though the window at a different angle than usual.

And that's when Branch remembered just where he was sleeping. He was still in Poppy's bed and now that he was awake he became aware of a few things. One, he had turned in the night and rolled toward the center of then bed and two, Poppy had done the same. Now she was laying practically on top of him, head tucked into his neck, leg thrown over his and a hand lightly clutching his shirt. And of course his arms had once again found their way around Poppy's waist, holding her close to him.

Branch felt himself tense because this was not good! He couldn't let Poppy wake up and find them like this, it would be so awkward. Trying to keep his breathing calm so he wouldn't wake her up with his hyperventilating, Branch tried to shimmy out from under her. Poppy made a noise of discontent as he started moving though and mumbled out something that almost sounded like 'stay' as she clutched his shirt harder. Branch groaned quietly, heart beating rapidly in his chest because he couldn't stay here. Taking a deep breath, he tried to move again, carefully prying Poppy's fingers from his shirt and slipping out from under her.

Once free, he rolled out of her bed and backed up a few steps, breathing heavily. He watched her grab after him before finding a pillow and hugging it close, humming softly. Trying to calm his racing heart, Branch watched her for another moment, mentally kicking himself for allowing that entire situation to happen. He shouldn't have given in last night. But what was done was done and he managed to get up without waking Poppy. Now he was going to go take a cold shower and not think about just how adorable she was when sleeping, with her hair a mess and the way she clung to the pillow like it was someone special to her. A very, very cold shower.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Branch and Poppy are way too competitive for their own good and honestly could have done way more savage pranks to each other but at the same time I was trying to keep light hearted like the Prank Day episode, which honestly boils down to the frosting buckets and water balloons XD

Also, fun fact, all the pranks were pure set up so I could write them sharing a bed XD

Also yes, I do ship Guy and Suki. I've been slowly falling for it and decided to slip it in, however I headcanon that they have a rather open relationship as Guy is a lover of all and Suki is a go with the flow kind of gal.

And woo!! This is the longest chapter yet! And it took extra long to write not only because of aformentioned RL stuff but also intermine writers block but it's done now and I'm actually pretty proud of it! And wow 10 chapters! I've never gotten this far in a multi-chapter fic! Hope you all enjoyed it!

#Dreamworks Trolls #Branch #Poppy #Broppy #Fanfiction #Human AU #Modern AU #Roommate AU #dreamworkstrolls #DJDiamond

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starhour · 6 years

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Put your music on shuffle and answer the questions about each artist!

Tagged by: No one! I just stole it because I wanted to do it, lmfao.

Name of Artist: Silverstein

What genre are they? They’re very emo, lol. I’d say post-hardcore?

How long have they been active? 2000.

Have you ever heard them on the radio? I actually never have.

Have they released any new music within the last year or two? They released a new album in 2017!

Do they have a male or female vocalist? Male.

Name of Artist: My Chemical Romance

Would you recommend them? Oh, MAN!

What is your favourite lyric of theirs? Listen here, you can’t just do that to me.

What are their album artworks like? Very dark and edgy for the most part, but that’s not always the case.

If they stopped making music, would you be sad? HM.

If you didn’t know what they look like, based off their music, what you guess they looked like ? I would guess that they looked exactly like they did, lmfao.

Name of Artist: The Used

How popular are they? Nowhere near as popular as they deserve to be.

Have you ever seen them perform live? I have!

How did you find out about them? I found their song I’m A Fake back in 2012 and fell head-over-heals in love. ♡

What is their sexuality, if known? I think they’re all straight, but Bert has definitely kissed a ton of guys, and I’m sure Jepha has kissed some too, lol.

Is their music easy to dance to? Depends on the song, but hell yeah!

Name of Artist: A Day To Remember

What instrument is the most prominent in their music? The easy answer is guitars, but I honestly notice the drums much more.

Does your family listen to them? Nooo, aha.

Are they still making music today? They are!

Would you want to meet them? Yeah, that’d be cool!

How represented is this artist in your saved music/collection? It says I have 36 songs saved by them.

Name of Artist: Super Whatevr

When did you discover them? During Waterparks’ Entertainment tour.

How many albums do they have? One album and one EP.

Which member of the band is closest to your ‘type’ / do you find the most attractive? Oh, definitely Chase!

Have they gone through any line-up changes? Yesss.

Is their music more fun or serious? I would say it’s seriously fun.

Name of Artist: As It Is

Is the type of music / genre they play something you would typically enjoy or is their sound different for you? Oh, it’s definitely my style.

Based off of their sound, what would a human version of their music look like? I would say that their earlier stuff would look like a little pop punk dude in khaki shorts, a snapback, and a flower crown that is drinking a Monster. Nowadays it would look like a little emo kid dressed in nothing but black, sitting in the corner with their knees pulled up to their chest and their head lying on them.

Could you see yourself getting along with the members personally? O H H E L L Y E S ! ! !

Did somebody recommend this band to you ? Nooo, I’ve been a fan of Patty’s since 2013, during his YouTube days, so their band just kind of became a thing I loved from the start!

Of all their songs, which would you play at a party? I’d say maybe Sorry?

Name of Artist: Senses Fail

How many people are in this band/group? Five.

When did they start making music? 2002.

Do they have any well known songs, if so, which one(s)? Their most popular ones are probably Calling All Cars and Buried A Lie.

Do you listen to this artist regularly? Oh, hell yeah.

How would you describe their music? Emo meets angsty punk meets post-hardcore meets more emo.

Name of Artist: Waterparks

If they use a stage name, what is their real name(s)? They don’t use a stage name!

Do they regularly make pop charts ? Uhm, not really? They’re definitely picking up popularity at alarming rates, though.

Have you ever met them? I have! ♡

If they toured in your city, would you go see them? F U C K Y E A H !

Name of Artist: Hawthorne Heights

Are they known for anything else besides music? They’re known for being emo as fuck, lmfao.

What is their nationality? American.

Are they a guilty pleasure? Nah, I don’t feel guilty for liking any music.

Which age group is this artist most popular with? Well, they definitely used to be suuuper popular with teens / preteens, but I feel like their fanbase has grown with them (like me), so they’re probably early-to-mid 20′s nowadays?

Has this artist ever toured in your country/state/city? I live in America too, so they have a lot.

Name of Artist: The Ready Set

Do you think it’s necessary or important to know about their personal life to ‘understand’ their music? Nooo, lol.

Have they ever gone on hiatus and did they return? No, thank god.

What instruments do they use? Keyboard, piano, guitar, bass, drums, etc.

What city are they from? Fort Wayne, Indiana.

What are your experiences with fans of this artist? There aren’t really too many hardcore fans of them anymore, but any experience I’ve had involving them have been positive!

I tag: @trgician @otto-wood @water-it-is @clusster @geoffs-band @thehandwrittenletter @cllusterr @blackcloudbyjuly @mad-allthetime @thebluepoptarts @idlehandsandceilingfans @paramoregf @70sbfs @waterparksgf @slaughterparks @silveracoustic and you! Just say I tagged you! ♡

#this was fun!!#you guys dont have to do to it!!#but i tagged the people i like a whole lot on here!!#at least the ones i could think of!!#but if you want to do it just steal this and say i tagged you!!<3 #brooke blabs #personal #about #tag meme

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jorrmungandr · 6 years

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Chapter 8: The Pulpit

Let us continue the Theology lessons, here in this, the most churchy run of chapters in Moby-Dick; or, the Whale.

This chapter contains some real meat in that particular vein, as well as appealing to a particular style of Christian aesthetic that I enjoy a great deal. After the doubts raised in The Chapel, it’s time to get a little more sincere, as the chaplain finally makes his appearance.

SUMMARY: Father Mapple, the chaplain, arrives. Having walked through the icy storm, his heartiness and humbleness cannot be doubted. He takes off his hat, coat, and overshoes, and ascends the pulpit to conduct the service.

It’s funny, sometimes, when I condense down what actually happens in a given chapter into a mere three sentences, and then have to go on for a thousand or two words about all the rest of it. Such is the way with novels! Especially the more twisty, philosophical ones like Moby Dick.

It seems to me that there is something of a tonal shift when Father Mapple arrives on the scene. Ishmael has a certain affection for the man, noting his humbleness, his robustness, his true, solemn devotion to his faith, all throughout this chapter and the next. We are assured that Mapple is himself a former seaman, and that he comes by his eccentricities honestly. Even the ropes of the pulpit are the genuine article, donated from a real ship.

Indeed, Ishmael is convinced that all of this is a part of some sort of clever Metaphor or Allegory being subtly employed by Father Mapple. When the chaplain pulls the rope ladder up into the pulpit, rung by rung, Ishmael waxes philosophic again:

I pondered some time without fully comprehending the reason for this. Father Mapple enjoyed such a wide reputation for sincerity and sanctity, that I could not suspect him of courting notoriety by any mere tricks of the stage. No, thought I, there must be some sober reason for this thing; furthermore, it must symbolize something unseen.

Around this time, he also makes a couple of stray references I thought I should chase down. First, the pulpit is Mapple’s own impregnable “little Quebec”. Quebec City is famously a walled town, and indeed is the only north american town that still retains its walls to this very day!

The other is that the pulpit is “ a lofty Ehrenbreitstein, with a perennial well of water within the walls”. Turns out, that’s just a enormous fortress in Germany, near what would at the time have been the border with France, right on the banks of the Rhine river. It was destroyed by the French during the Napoleonic wars, but then rebuilt even stronger afterwards. At the time of this writing, it would be a massive, impressive symbol of military might and safety. It, too, has survived to this very day, and you can go tour it in much the same form as it was in Melville’s day. As far as I can find, there are no legends about it having a replenishing well within its walls.

This is all in service of the Metaphor that Ishmael mentioned, that this heavenly retreat of Father Mapple signifies his withdrawal from petty physical concerns and turning his attention to the spiritual.

Yes, for replenished with the meat and wine of the word, to the faithful man of God, this pulpit, I see, is a self-containing stronghold

I love this kinda shit. I’m gonna be honest, this sort of... I’m not sure exactly how to describe it, early American naive Christianity. The kind of thing you get from puritans and other wild strands of the faith that were exiled first to Holland and then across the ocean to the New World.

It’s like... people discovering Christianity for the first time and trying to make sense of it on their own. Protestantism flows from the invention of the printing press, and the new availability of the actual text of the Bible to people other than Catholic priests and monks. What must they think of these strange stories, now thrown open for interpretation? Trying to discover the inerrant truths hidden within them, seeking a way of life in a book written thousands of years earlier, for a completely different audience.

It leads to things like Pilgrim’s Progress, a book massively popular in very early New England. Just directly telling people to be good, that greed is bad, and you just have to believe in Jesus. The burden of discovering the truth through the scripture is a heavy one, why not make a cheat sheet? Here’s all the important stuff, laid out in the most bald, easy-to-understand allegory that even the youngest of children or the busiest of farmers could understand it. When you tear down an old idol that was telling you how to run your life, you have to fill that void with something!

This kind of Christianity, with it’s very simple, direct messages trying to convince people not to be so horrible all the time, appeals to me on a deep level. It feels so damn honest compared to its modern American successors, I suppose. Just be good, and not bad, and believe in The Lord and it’ll all be okay.

Of course, the truth is that even back then this kind of ministry was rife with hypocrites and scandal. But that’s more Nathaniel Hawthorne’s territory, we’re reading a Melville book, and though they were close friends, they didn’t exactly speak about the same things all the time.

Speaking of the book that I’m supposed to be talking about, the metaphor is completed by Ishmael saying that the pulpit is like the prow of a ship, but for the whole of the Earth. It is the foremost part, sticking out bravely, leading the way for all the rest of us.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention one other thing: another enormous, portentous oil painting! This time hanging on the wall directly behind the pulpit, above the tragic tablets on the back wall. It depicts a ship in the midst of a storm, but with a ray of sunshine breaking through the clouds above. And in that, an angelic figure beckoning the ship onwards, to safety.

And so the structure of these chapters has gone. First, we were plunged into grief and theological doubt by the tablets, then we climb out of that mire with Father Mapple, to the top of the high pulpit. And finally, next chapter, we shall ascend into hope and light when he finally begins his sermon.

You’ll never guess what book of the bible he’s talking about.

Whew, that one really went some places. I think part of my appreciation for that vein of Christianity comes from the church I grew up in, UCC, which a descendant of Congregationalists, which have their origins among the dissidents of England and the settlers of New England. Also the exceedingly lengthy, yet very good, series of books from Neal Stephenson called The Baroque Cycle, which I highly recommend.

As always, you can follow along for free with the full text of the book from Gutenberg dot org. Next chapter is gonna be realllllll long and even more Theological than this one, as we get into an actual got damb sermon, probably based on one that Melville actually heard at the real church that this scene is set in. We’ll see how it fits in, thematically, with the rest of the book.

Image Credits, in order:

A Sermon From The High Pulpit: The Chancel Behind (1827), Joesph Mallord William Turner.

Photo of Porte St. Louis, Parks Canada.

Festung Ehrenbreitstein viewed from Koblenz (2011), Holger Weinandt.

Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, With Over One Hundred Illustrations Designed by Frederick Barnard and Others, Engraved by Dalziel Borthers (The John C. Winston Company, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Toronto, 1894).

Ships in Distress in a Storm (1720-30), Peter Monamy.

#moby-dick; or the whale #moby dick #19th century literature #herman melvil #ishmael #father mapple #pilgrim's progress #protestantism #new england #philosophy #theology

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managingxmischief · 2 years

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𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐎𝐅 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐍

Hand and hand, Celestia and Draco sprinted through the wooded area with no true destination in mind. After just being attacked by the man whom she called Father her entire life, Celestia failed to accumulate her next steps from here on out. Fear drove their motivation, allowing their legs to work faster than they were capable of matching. Chasing behind the clouds, their legs were beginning to weight heavy due to their long travels. Heavy pants fell passed through the duo’s lips as their strides had finally declined. “Let’s take a break. I think we should be safe here for the night.” The female suggested, leaning her shoulder forward, as her backpack slid down her arm. ”Yeah, I can set up camp for us.” Draco declared, his gaze scanning the area for the perfect location. The second after he found out about what Atlas had done to Celestia, he did not waste another second and demanded he stay by her side. Pureblood or not, she was the love of his life. Nothing could change that. Just as he was about to start their set up, Malfoy heard a variety of voices nearby. He quickly turned onto the defense, standing in front of Celestia, as he drew his wand. “We’re not alone.” He warned in a hushed tone. A subtle gasp slipped from Celestia. She rose to her feet, drawing her weapon as well. There was no way Atlas was capable of discovering her location so quickly. Being on high alert, Celestia rested her back against Draco’s as she prepared for what joined them. Her breathing naturally slowed, still met with the intimidating thoughts that she would meet her fate. ”Show yourself!” Demanded Draco, his grip upon the hawthorn wood growing tighter. Slipping through a dense bush, Harry revealed himself with hands raised in the air. “C-Celestia?” He couldn’t believe his eyes. The last he had heard, she had went into hiding without a word. Sighing in relief, the male couldn’t resist but go in to pull her into an embrace. His arms wrapped around her figure as a bright smile stretched along his lips. “I didn’t know what happened to you. I was so worried!” Noticing the duration of his hug exceeding for far too long, Harry released his arms. Glancing to her side, he noticed Draco present, which wasn’t too much of a surprise. A feeling of guilt washed over Celestia, realizing just how much her actions affected those around her. “Oh gosh, Potty. I don’t even know where to begin. Just know, I’m okay now.” Despite her mind being clouded with negative thoughts, she offered a warm smile. An eyebrow raised upon Draco’s face as he crossed his arms over his chest. “You should be truthful, Cele.” He suggested with a reasonable tone. His dark eyes fell upon Celestia, then Harry. The blonde male reached forward, as he gently pushed her dual colored hair behind her shoulder blades. His comment quickly pulled confusion from Harry. “What does he mean by that?” If he knew anything about Malfoy, it was that he was brutally honest, which could be a pro or a con. Harry watched curiously as Draco pulled attention to her neck, which was still tainted with the remnant of hand prints. “Who did this to you? Who were you running from?” Celestia instantly allowed her head to glance downwards in embarrassment. She could only imagine the pain Harry endured, being left feeling selfish to even talk about her troubles. Clearing her throat, the female finally mustered up the courage. “It was Atlas. He did this.” ”Your Father?!” Hermione questioned as she had finally made her appearance. “But, why would he do such a horrid thing? To his own daughter none the less! Nodding her head, Celestia cleared her throat. “He grew disappointed in me. I didn’t want to help him and the Dark Lord. They wanted me to lead them to Harry and I couldn’t do that. I had no other choice but to run.” ”That vile beast is not her father.” Draco spat out. He did not even want to begin to speculate the different outcomes if Severus wasn’t there watching Celestia. ”Wait, but what are you all doing here out of all places?” Celestia pondered.

Sighing in relief, Harry pushed his glasses further up the bridge of his nose. “It’s a good thing you mentioned. To put it simply, we’re hunting down Horcruxes. I believe if we collect and destroy them, it could weaken Voldemort. It’s the only chance we have.” He softly sighed, looking back at Hermione and Ron. “We could use the extra help.” ”Are you mad? You’re seriously asking Malfoy for help?” Ron hissed, as the Slytherin locket glistened in the sun. “There’s no way we could trust him.” Draco instantly stepped forward with a scowl weighing heavy against his lips. “Want to repeat that, Weasel?” Despite the flawed choices he had made in the past, the male made valiant efforts to make up for such. There was no way he would allow Ron invalidate all of the growth he had made so far. Celestia quickly stepped in front of Draco and reached for his hand, squeezing lightly. “How can we help?” She pondered. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - The evening continued on uneventful as the group accumulated ideas on how to get rid of the locket. Truth be told, that was Celestia, Hermione, and Harry; while Ron and Draco continued at it. They were all taken back by Ron’s sudden expression of ill-mannerism. But unfortunately, being as stubborn as Draco was, he wouldn’t allow anyone to speak to him in such a manner. Before they knew it, the sun was quickly setting as they enjoyed a dinner together. ”Draco, you and Celestia can sleep here. There should be enough room for the two of you.” Offered Harry with a weak smile. As odd as the scenario was, it was a relief to be able to be in the same room as Draco with no animosity. This was the Draco he wish he would have initially met. ”And where are we supposed to sleep, Harry?” Scoffed Ron as he performed a roll of his eyes. ”There are two more beds, it will all work out. There’s no need to make a fuss.” Responded Harry in a exhausted tone. There was no telling how much more of the bickering he could take. Rising from the table, Draco looked down at Ron, feeling concluded with the unnecessary attitude. He went throughout the whole day listening to him spew out negativity, failing to offer anything positive for the group. “No Harry, if he has a problem he can speak up.” Being challenged, Ronald kissed his teeth, as he felt all eyes land onto him. “I’m just failing to understand why we have to sacrifice what little we have for them.” His gaze was locked onto Draco’s. “What’s the matter? Daddy can’t throw galleons for you to sleep in a comfortable bed?” Celestia remained silent as her hands grasped at the material of her pants, fighting back tears. She tried to continuously remind herself that these words carried no truth behind them. Ron had no idea what she was going through. They were all here together to bring down the Dark Lord, not each other. “Maybe it should be someone else to wear the locket?” She suggested in a soft whisper. ”You truly are dense! Take a minute and realize you aren’t the only one here sacrificing something.” Draco marched forward with hands curled into fists. He couldn’t resist but allow his blood begin to boil over the ginger’s arrogance. “Say whatever you want about me. But, I will not stand here and allow you to disrespect Celestia. She nearly survived death by her own father just a mere few hours ago. So, just for a second, I suggest using that pea brain of yours.” Anger lingered in his tone, as his facial expression gave it all away. Now was not the time to play a competition over better sob stories. “I understand that you’re bitter you lost someone special to you, but that was all on your own accord. There are people dying however. And if I have a chance to prevent such, I’d like to do so without having to hear your petty remarks.” Ronald tossed his arms in defeat as he listened to the harsh words given by Malfoy. Despite it all being well deserved, he just couldn’t accept it. “You guys just don’t understand. I have a family who cares whether I come home or not.” At this point, Ron had upset just about everyone in the tent, including his best friend. “If that’s truly how you feel, maybe you should go join them, Ron.” Declared Harry, as he could not even look the male in the eyes. ”How rich. You’re picking Malfoy over me? Forget this. I should have never came.” With a swift motion, Ron’s hand wrapped around the locket and pulled it off and over his head. “Screw you. Screw you all.” He spat out before shoving the necklace into Harry’s hands and stormed out. Silence quickly filled the ten, Ron’s devastating words echoing into everyone’s brains. With the state of the world, Celestia couldn’t believe the behavior of Ronald. But, perhaps it was for the best. After all, they were on a mission to end the tyranny of Voldemort. Sitting side by side, Celestia and Draco shared a glance as the tension slowly diminished. She was unaware whether to remain silent, or to offer words of encouragement towards Harry. “I’m sure he didn’t mean it, Harry.” Celestia spoke softly in respect of Harry’s feelings. She was unsure if anything she would say in this moment would assist or add fuel to his anger. “It could have been the lockets influence for all we know. Have hope, perhaps he’ll come around.” ”I think we would benefit without him for a bit.” Sighed Hermione. “I’m not sure about you lot, but I could take a break from all the bickering. Suddenly, the raven haired female was reminded of the music playing off from the far corner of their make shift home for the evening. Her head quickly turned to face Draco with a wide smile curled at the edge of her lips. “Drac! Do you recognize this song?”

Her question was met with a scoff, “Oh bloody hell.” The blonde playfully complained as a classical tone played throughout the tent. “How could I forget?” He declared before rising to his feet. Draco offered his hand out towards Celestia, gently pulling her to her feet alongside him. His temper being his greatest flaw, a moment with Celestia made for an effortless remedy to shift his mind. Celestia’s smile beamed through the tent. “This song! Me and Draco were taught to dance to this exact song. Oh Merlin, I should say forced.” She admitted with a soft chuckle. The duo would be the first to find humor in their authoritarian upbringing. “It was precious though. I would always catch Draco counting his steps. You little perfectionist, you.” Her large, doe eyes glimpsed upwards at Draco before sharing a soft cackle. ”Taught to dance?” Repeated Harry with a raised eyebrow. “I’m sure it wasn’t as dreadful as McGonagall’s lesson.” It felt odd to share a chuckle with a boy he had shared his entire childhood fighting with. But, Harry could sense a shift in Draco. Perhaps it was with the guidance of Celestia by his side. No matter the reason, it felt natural for him. ”Ah, it all makes sense.” Hermione began as she stepped besides Harry. “You two appeared as if you were performers the night of the Yule Ball!” She reminisced upon the faint memory that felt so long ago. Draco’s arm had coiled along his partner’s waist, pulling her body close against his, as a hand intertwined. “Hey! It was a lot of pressure, okay? Mum scolded me by saying you would never marry me if I had two left feet.” The tent erupted into laughter as the couple’s recollection of memories had drastically lifted the mood. “That’s a lot of pressure to give me as a child!” Their bodies began to sway along with the beat of the music, their old skills showcasing in their movements. Glancing down at Celestia, he softly smiled. This would be the first time he caught a smile from her in days. There were more important agendas at hand, but all he aspired to do was make each day better than the later, no matter where it led them. The male leaned down to press his lips against her forehead as they shared a moment of serendipity. It had appeared that their dancing was infectious, seeing as Hermione and Harry followed in suit. It was obvious that they all needed a distraction from the heinous world outside the doors of the tent. Their voices fell quiet as the sound of the music filled the room. As the song descended into it’s ending, Draco raised his hand and guided his lover to perform a graceful turn. The simple moment was enough distraction they could have ever desired. For a moment, life seemed as close to perfection as possible. Time stood still and nothing existed passed the vicinity. “Everything is going to be okay. You and me at the end, remember?” He spoke softly, barely audible enough for Celestia to decipher. Despite many seeing Draco in a harsh light, it was moments such as these that made falling for him so easy. Celestia perched her body upwards onto the tips of her toes as she leaned forward for a desperate need of affection. A sudden voice quickly pulled the couple’s attention. Turning her head, Celestia’s eyes expanded at the sight her vision fell upon. Harry held Hermione in his arms, as their bodies matched synergy with the beat of the music. For a moment, there was nothing but silence between the two as their shared an intimate moment. Harry pulled his head back, glancing at the beauty that was Hermione, and pressed his lips against hers with much intensity. Clearing her throat, Celestia did not want to stare, and offer the two their privacy; even if they were in a small vicinity. “Draco, I…uh.” Growing nervous, she failed to come up with a distraction of conversation. Harry and Hermione had always shared such tension, but no one suspected for those feelings to be acted upon. Suddenly, she felt the firm hold of Draco’s hand along her arm. ”I think we’re going to call it an evening. I’ve grown tired, please don’t let us interrupt anything!” Draco spoke rapidly, the words nearly tangling against his tongue. ”Y-Yeah, I’m pretty tired too! Don’t let us stop your wonderful evening.” Celestia added, while Draco led the two towards their assigned sleeping quarters. Once the couple had successfully retreated, they locked eyes, and shared similar glances towards one another. Harry quickly pulled away, as he extended his arm out. “Wait, no! You guys don’t have to leave. I mean it.” But, before he could finish his sentence, the duo had disappeared. “Did that just really happen? I can’t say that I am surprised through..” Draco admitted with eyes expanded in disbelief. “Out of the craziness that was this past week, I can admit that was the craziest thing I’ve witnessed.

By now, Celestia’s cheeks were flushed a warm tone of red as she felt the secondhand embarrassment. She was more concerned on potentially ruining a magical moment between the two. However, it might have turned sour if Celestia and Draco decided to stick around. “I can’t believe that happened!” She exclaimed as both hands curled against her cheek. “Well, maybe I can. Ron’s been rather harsh lately, he practically pushed her into Harry’s arms!” The female leaned in closer towards the male, “They’ve been fighting for a long time. After he broke it off with Lavender,he realized how idiotic he was being and begged for Hermione to give him another chance.” Leaning back, Draco balanced the weight of his head against a bent arm behind his head. “I cannot help but grow curious, my love. How do you know all of this?” He was never one to keep up with gossip. Celestia softly giggled as she allowed her body to rest besides Draco’s, head resting against his chest, as she gazed up at him. “I had Divination with her. Hermione asked me one to read her palm. Parvati and I are friends, the list can truly go on.” ”How long then has she and Harry been an item?” He questioned, attempting to piece together the timeline. Softly shrugging her shoulders, Celestia attempted to recollect her memories. “Do you remember that party you held at your home after Slytherin took home the cup? I think that was the night they declared their feelings. ”Do you think they’re snogging right now?” Draco pondered as he leaned forward to peep through the small slit of their canopy. Celestia grinned, playfully sending her hand into Draco’s shoulder. “Draco! Give them their privacy. Perhaps this was their first kiss, after all.” Her soft giggling continued as her hands grasped at the fabric of his shirt, pulling him away from their sight. ”Better question is, why are we not snogging right now?” He pondered before a smirk twisted upon his lips. Draco guided Celestia to lay down beside him as they shared a final laugh, before falling into a peaceful slumber.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The next morning blessed the group with fair weather, the sun offering a gracious warmth in the chilled climate. However, when it came to the Horcruxes, time was rapidly ticking. Celestia was found hunched over in a nearby forested area, her attention fixated upon a pile of branches that sat before her. She softly hummed as she wrapped her arms around her legs, before hearing a soft voice from behind her. ”I hope I’m not interrupting.” Spoke Hermione as she slowly approached from behind. She cleared her throat and nervously twirled her thumbs against one another. “Perhaps this may be horrific timing, but I’d like to ask for your advice.” The brunette began, descending her weight down, until she sat besides Celestia. ”Oh, good morning Hermione.” Celestia greeted in a warm tone. Her view fell upon the motion of the female’s fingers, seeing as it was a rare sight to see, it wasn’t often that she displayed any characteristics of nerves. “Of course, I hope I can be helpful.” Although, she felt as if she knew exactly what the topic of conversation would revolve. Clearing her throat, Hermione pushed her hair from out of her face and tucked it behind her ear. “When you and Draco developed feelings, how did you gain the courage to proceed passed the ‘friend title’ without it being awkward?” She glanced over her shoulder, seeing as Harry had stepped from out of the tent.

- -

Being met with the awakening breeze, Harry had approached Draco, as he caught him admiring his partner from afar. However, a puzzled expression soon twisted against his face. “I apologize, but is your girlfriend…staring at twigs on the ground? Draco quickly furrowed his eyebrows and turned to look in Harry’s direction. “Are you daft? Truly. Are you seriously daft? I am genuinely asking for your own sanity.” The blonde spat out. “She’s performing Xylomancy. It’s a type of divination that relies on twigs or branches.” He crossed his arms over his chest as he shook his head in disappointment. “You should be praising her. She’s attempting to find a solution for the destruction of that horcrux, even out in the middle of nowhere!” Harry fell silent as he watched the two female’s of the group interact with one another. “Second question. Do you think they are talking about me?” Draco turned his head to face Harry, nodding with confidence. “Oh absolutely.”

- - Celestia allowed for her hands to gracefully fall onto her lap as she pondered the answer to Hermione question. “Ah, it’s difficult to answer that, as everyone’s relationship is different. Draco and I had spent so much time together and when we were younger, we used to play pretend…a lot. We would always pretend that we were married. I’d even suggest things like I wanted to pretend to be Merlin and he said no! And one day, when we were about seven, Draco declared that he would marry me if it was the last thing he did.” She took a brief pause in her recollection to softly laugh. “Every year he would remind me of his promise, but then that stopped when we went to Hogwarts. At first, I thought he forgot all about it. I mean, it was a silly thing to hold onto. But then, the summer after our third year, I spent some time over at his house. He was acting so strange that day and led me to this secret field of flowers he found and had a small picnic for us. It was so sweet, he even had my favorite sweets packed. But, he looked at me and told me if he ever planned on marrying me, he needed to date me. Then he just went for it and asked me to be his. Afterwards, it was never awkward. Things just fell into place. And maybe that’s how things will be for you and Harry; falling into place. I know you’ve sat on these feelings for awhile. But, I don’t see a better time to make that jump.” Her answer was met with silence as Hermione simply nodded her head. “I’ve always wondered how such a bright girl could fall for a boy like Draco.” Her head raised as she glanced over the male mentioned, then back onto Celestia. “But, seeing you two together it makes sense. He has such a soft spot for you. You two bring out the best in one another.” Hermione’s head drooped downwards to fixate on her fingers once more. “And I can’t help but feel that way with Harry.”

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circaoaks · 6 years

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In The Heart Of The Sea~Chapter one -Welcome to Nantucket

Summary // Writer Herman Medvillie travels to Nantucket to visit the last surviours of the Essex, ready to tell the truth about how the vessel actually went down. Thomas Nickerson hesitantly retells the story to Herman. The story of the Essex and how he met his wife.

Word Count // 1608

Warnings // None ‘

Chapter one , Chapter two ,Chapter three

‘’How does one come to know the unknowable? What Faculties must a man possess? Since it was discovered that whale oil could light our cities in ways never achieved before, it created global demand. It has pushed man to venture further and further into the deep blue unknown. We know not it’s depths, nor the host of creatures that live there. Monsters, are they real? Or do the stories exist only to make us respect the sea’s dark secrets

The question both vexes and excites me and is the reason I’ve written you a second time to request another meeting. A conversation with you sir, I believe will serve me well for the novel, I intend to write currently entitled 'Moby Dick'. I hope that you will reconsider my offer. The unknown. That is where my imagination yearns to venture. Thus, and so the question plagues me still. How does a man come to know the unknowable? Sincerely, Herman Melville.’’

The town of Nantucket although was still dark, it seemed full of energy and life. Drunkards stumble around the port, some alone, some with friends and some with prostitutes found lurking around the pubs waiting for their next customer. Stray cats and dogs searching the ground trying to find their next meal, Children raced around unknown to the mysteries of life. One man stood out amongst the crowd carrying a case and a parchment of papers this man is Herman Melville, he kept his head up high trying to find the man he’d been looking for

Herman walked up the rickety wooden stairs to a border house painted a rustic red. A calico cat sat next to the door, Herman unknown to its presence. Herman gazed inside to see an older woman wearing a beautiful pale blue dress, her (Y/H/C) hair tied into a messy bun. The woman saw the man’s shadow and yelled out.

“We’re closed! No borders after 8:00’’ the woman cradled another calico cat to her shoulder as she walked passed. Herman knocks on the window which catches her attention, she turns around to see Herman place the letter to the window, not wanting to waste any more time, the woman quickly reads over it, her face suddenly becoming hopeful as they locked eyes

‘’You came’’ the woman quickly opens up the door to let Herman in, the older calico cat following close behind.

‘’How was your trip? All well I hope’’ the woman asked politely as she placed the kitten in a blanket covered basket with four other kittens, the older cat quickly wrapping itself around them protectively

‘’Very well, I must admit, I’ve been nervous to talk to your husband’’ Herman admits, Mrs.Nickerson lets out a chuckle

‘’Trust me, Mr. Melville, it’s him who should be nervous. Come I’m sure you want to get right to writing’’ Herman nods

‘’Yes ma’am’’ Mrs.Nickerson leads Herman to her husband's study, she quietly opens the door and steps in Herman close behind

‘’Someone here for you, my love’’ Mrs.Nickerson announces stepping aside to allow Herman inside

‘’Tom Nickerson?’’ Herman walked up to the sitting man, carefully avoiding the many model boats in empty bottles ‘’Herman Melville’’ he introduced himself politely

‘’We received your letter.’’The older graying man mumbled ‘’You’re either a desperate man or a fool to come all the way to Nantucket’’ Thomas grumbled as he continued fiddling with a piece of thread

‘’My offer still applies,’’ Herman spoke as he reaches into his jacket pocket ‘’Three months of paid lodging for a single night's talk.’’ Herman places the money on the table, Thomas took a quick glance the looked at Herman, his deep brown eyes swimming with torment ‘’It all I have in the world. But I prefer to think of it as an investment. I want you to tell me what happened to the Essex’’

Mrs.Nickerson leaves the study with a hopeful heart, praying that the talk with Mr.Meville would do her husband good.

‘’What do you think happened?’’ Thomas grumbled as Herman took a seat.

‘’There are rumbling rumors that the Essex was-’’ Herman explained, he was apparently waiting too long as Thomas cut him off

‘’What do you want? What story do you expect to hear?’’ ‘’That of the whale.’’ Herman puts the statement bluntly, Thomas doesn’t answer for a while then speaks with a monotone voice ‘’Essex went aground there was a full inquiry’’ ‘’I believe the inquiry was less than truthful,’’ Herman spoke to Thomas eyes filled with wonder Thomas knew that look all too well

‘’Get out,’’ Thomas grunted not wanted to participate, regretting even allowing him into his study ‘’You are the last survivor of the Essex sir. If you won’t talk who will?.’’ Herman begged ‘’Did you hear me? Leave, now.’’Thomas demanded, with hesitation Herman jumped from his chair as he picked up his money and stormed out of the study and down the steps.

Mrs.Nickerson who had heard the ruckus quickly put the older calico down and rushed over to Herman gently placing her petite hands on his chest

‘’No, you mustn’t go. Please!’’ Mrs.Nickerson begged Herman eyes filled with anger as he spoke his mind to the older woman ‘’He is in no mind to talk and I haven’t come all this way to be humiliated and waste my time’’ once Herman calmed down Mrs. Nickerson allowed her hands to come together as if she was going to pray and continued to beg

‘’Please, Mr. Melville. He will not talk to me or our children and grandchildren about Essex. Even we bother were affected by the events. He has not wanted to. To anyone, never has, never.’’ Anger had left Hermans' eyes are Mrs.Nickerson explained her husband's situation ‘’There’s an agony about him his soul is in torment, and in need of confession. My soul is at ease, I want the same for him. Let me talk to him. I beg you.’’ Herman let out a breath and nodded, Mrs.Nickerson quickly rushed up the stair as fast as Herman came down them.

Herman followed closely behind, Mrs.Nickerson stopped in front of the door ‘’Stay here, it shouldn’t take too long to convince him’’ Herman nodded as he watched the older woman disappear into the study. The older Calico cat let out a loud purr as it brushed against his legs. Herman let out a chuckle as he bent down to pet the feline

‘‘Lets hope this all goes to plan’‘

Mrs.Nickerson let out a breath as she sits down on the wooden chair her to her fuming husband ‘’My Beloved. I believe it would do you good to talk to the man’’ she watches as her husband's hands fiddle with a piece of thread and a small piece of wood.

‘’No.’’ Thomas spits out, Mrs.Nickerson let out a groan as she rips the objects from his hands, the way her husband was acting reminded Mrs.Nickerson of her grandchildren having a silly temper tantrum, Mrs.Nickerson grabbed her husbands jaw an old habit that forces Thomas to look at her. (Y/E/C) clashes with mahogany brown.

‘’Now you listen well. Who holds this place together while you drink yourself to death?’’ Thomas’s eyes filled with respect and understanding replacing the annoyed looked, he’d realized how much his beautiful wife had done for him and all she wanted was him to fulfill an easy wish.‘’Now, talk to the man so we can keep the money. You know our circumstances, Thomas.’’ Mrs.Nickerson’s harsh tone was replaced with a motherly tone that soothed Thomas into agreeing but on his own terms

‘’I tell no more than necessary (Y/N).’’ (Y/N) let out a breath of relief, she leans over, her soft lips met his rough cheek and whispered into his ear

‘’Thank you my love’’ Thomas lets out a soft chuckle as he watches his wife open up the study door to let Herman inside. He nodded to (Y/N) in thanks as he stepped closer to Thomas’s table.

‘’I'll get the whiskey.’’ (Y.N) announced as she left the room, her Calico cat following close behind.

‘’I neglected to mention it my letter, that I was a whale once. One trip, I mean. Green hand’’ Herman attempted to connect with the elderly man ‘’So you have seen it all?’’ Thomas askes, Herman let out an awkward chuckle not knowing how to reply to the man ‘’My wife has read your books. She enjoyed them’’ Thomas spoke as he mindlessly ran a hand across the many empty jars on a table next to an old window

‘’I am pleased to hear it.’’ Herman replies as he sits down at the main table, emptying out his bag of supplies to begin writing ‘’I’ve had good sales. This story might even surpass the success of my first novel.’’ ‘’Another of you seafaring yarns?’’ Thomas asked approaching the table ‘’Have you read Hawthorne's works, Mr. Melville? now there’s a writer a great writer’’ Thomas asked still standing above Herman ‘’He is. But he is not here and I am for my own particular reasons.’’ Herman spoke as he placed the money on the table, Thomas looked down at it then back to Herman. ‘’I will tell you of Essex. I believe you will be disappointed but every word will be true. The story of Essex is the story of two men: Captain George Pollard and his first mate ...Owen Chase.’’ Thomas moved back to his chair

Ready to tell Herman the story of The Essex and how he met his wife

#Tom Holland #x reader #tom holland x reader #in the heart of the sea #Tom Nickerson #thomas nickerson #Thomas Nickerson x reader #fanfic #fanfiction

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