#decorative jewelry storage box

[magicalshopping]

♡ My Melody Heart Storage Box from Blippo ♡

[beautyonehome75253]

Home Decor Storage

Looking to bring a natural, earthy vibe into your space? 🌿 Our Jungle Series Home Decor Storage offers beautifully crafted storage solutions perfect for any retailer or event planner seeking something unique.

Explore the collection today: beautyonehome.com/collections/jungle-series

#HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #JungleStyle #NaturalStorage #BeautyOneHome #CustomDecor

[handmadegiftpl]

Wooden Tea Box with 12 Compartments Gustav Klimt Inspired

Wooden Tea Box with 12 Compartments Gustav Klimt Inspired, Japonism & Art Nouveau Style, Handcrafted in Europe Gift for women

[wishlisted]

green witch mushroom travel jewelry box from mysticum luna

[wanderingsimsfinds]

WanderingSims Fave CC - Clutter Pt. 2 List

1 - Art Vitalex - Mid Century Modern Neil Vases (TSR)

2, 16 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas Desierto Bedroom (Desenio Poster Vertical V2 & Vases)

3, 48 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 PsychicPeanutKitty January Clutter (Lamp Globe & Books)

4 - Kelly&Co - Scandi Wall Shelf

5 - simstiful - Incipit Console

6 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sundays-sims Umalas Cermic Jar A-D

7, 57 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas MidCentury Modern Living Room (The Poster Club Square V2 & The Poster Club Horizontal V2)

8 - Onyx - Excelsior Reed Diffuser (TSR)

9 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sundays-sims Raventons Dunes Set Vase A-B

10 - Onyx - Diego Painting Frame (TSR)

11, 14, 44 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 PsychicPeanutKitty May N3 (Small Vase, Wall Clock, Books)

12 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sundays-sims Raventons Oken Set Glass Vase A

13 - Art Vitalex - Glen Mirror

15 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sundays-sims Conversion Set 4 Ceramic & Wood Vase

17 - Kale House - 4t3 MXIMS Menu Afteroom Coat Hanger with Gallery Bag

18-19, 23 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sims-KKB One Room Set 6 (Cupboard, Books V1-V6, Files)

20 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Pinboxdesign Ceduna Set Cupboard

21-22 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas Kirsal Set Part 2 (Candle A & B)

24 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas Boho Deco Vase 1

25 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sundays-sims Berawa Set Candle V2

26 - Over-waxedBanister - 4t3 Slox Bojo Shelves

27 - kitty-pixelz - hyschool book sv2

28-29, 33-34 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Sundays-sims POP Set (Candle for Box, Candle B, A, D)

30 - Ameriko-Steelie - 4t3 Mechtasims Back To School Textbook

31, 37 - breadcrumbssims3 - Cosy Academia Books 2-3

32 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Kaihana Onyx Set Decorative Box Candle

35 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas Kirsal Set Part 3 Candle Tray

36 - Over-waxedBanister - 4t3 MXIMS Soy Candle

38 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Leosims Free September 2023 Content Venus Books

39 - deggdegg - Kanken 1-3

40, 42-43, 45-47 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas Rahat Set (Leaning Poster, Candle Box, Candle Closed, Décor, Jewelry Plate, Jewelry Holder)

41 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 KerriganHouseDesigns Ralph Lauren Hurricane Candle

49 - Mutske - Aria Study 6 Books (TSR)

50 - Over-waxedBanister - 4t3 Gleamer Isobel Wall Shelf

51 - Onyx - Gibsonton Pillow Storage (TSR)

52-53 - SimsDeoGloria - 4t3 Pierism Oak House Large Leather Shelf & Narrow Leather Shelf

54-55 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 MintyJinx VHS Set (Player & Player with Items)

56 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 MeinKatz Platform Tray by Muuto

58 - LemyLou - Curtains Eyelet Long, Mid, Short

59 - kriss - Savoy Curtains L&R Sheer & Tieback Versions (TSR)

60 - SimsDeoGloria - 4t3 Pierisim Oak House Part 1 Dining Room (Curtains Large & Low)

[i-miss-2013]

How to have a 2015 bedroom! ☀️🛼

There were plenty of different bedroom aesthetics in 2015, but for this post I’ll be focusing more on the summer-y, colorful, basic lifestyle YouTuber bedrooms! 🥰

Wall color:

White

Bright or pastel pink

Bright blue

Teal

Biege/cream

Wall decor:

Dream catchers

Posters

Photos

Collages

Fairy lights

Art/paintings

String tassels

Tapestry

Room decor:

Plants

Flowers

Table lamps

Fun jewelry holders/storage

Colorful storage boxes

Makeup organizers

Small white desk

Colorful desk chair

Candles

Picture frames

Cute rugs

Magazines

White shelves, bookcase, bed ends, etc

Anything cute, colorful, bright, and gold detailing is perfect! <3

Bed:

White bed frame

Plain sheets

Colorful, patterned comforter

A LOT of decorative pillows (different shapes and sizes)

Plain, bright pillows too

(Optional) Colorful blanket at the end of the bed

Okay, that’s the general idea of a bedroom from 2015! 😋 Let me know if you guys want more in-depth bedroom posts! ⬇️

Tag me if you have a 2013-15 inspired bedroom, so I can reblog it! <3

[pastelwitchling]

Hi! I simply adore you, and your writing is incredible. I'm homeless, living out of my car, and reading your stories makes it bearable. I was wondering if you could write a malex story where everyone of Michael's family and friends adore Alex and he loves the appreciation for his husband and makes a comment about Alex being the favorite Guerin but Alex gets really upset and after Michael gets him calm he realizes it's about the favoritism and pitting the Manes boys against each other by their dad. Michael apologizes and assures Alex he's loved for being him and not being better or something like that. Much love! ❤️ tyia

***

It started with a birthday party. Liz’s birthday party.

The Crashdown was decorated in balloons and streamers that Isobel had dug out of her storage closet, and somehow made to look like a jewelry box on the inside. They’d met up after the diner had closed for the day, Michael glued to Alex’s back the entire time that he offered Liz their gift.

“If I have to be at a social event, you’re not getting rid of me.”

“It’s just our friends,” Alex said calmly as Kyle passed to hug Liz, “and I never want to get rid of you.”

Michael grumbled into the nape of Alex’s neck, annoyed by his husband’s perfection and completely undermining that point by hugging his waist from behind and squeezing him. He felt Alex’s chuckle, and tightened his hold until Alex couldn’t breathe.

“Stop squishing him, Michael,” Liz scolded, swatting Michael’s hands, “he’s turning all red.”

“I don’t mind,” Alex covering Michael’s hands on his stomach with his own, keeping him close.

“He doesn’t mind,” Michael said with a tight smile.

“Of course he doesn’t,” Kyle smirked, slinging an arm around Isobel’s shoulders, “because he’s too good for you.”

“That’s original,” Michael retorted.

“The hill I’m dying on.”

“You need help with that?”

              “Stop,” Alex groaned. “This is supposed to be a birthday party, can we just this once not bring murder into the conversation?”

Michael and Kyle huffed, their biggest source of entertainment tonight effectively ended, but then Alex leaned his weight back and Michael was too preoccupied with readily steadying him to think of anything else. Alex might not be willing to show anyone else the pain in his leg, his exhaustion, but he would easily allow Michael to hold him and take care of him, even in public. Michael forced himself to stay annoyed with Valenti and not smile into Alex’s shoulder – Kyle wished Alex needed him like he needed Michael.

“C’mon,” he murmured into the shell of Alex’s ear as Kyle and Isobel started chatting with Liz. “Let’s sit down.”

“M’fine,” Alex mumbled, but did as he was told.

“I know,” Michael said, sitting down in a booth and holding his arms out. Alex scoffed, but sat down with his back to Michael’s chest, turning his face into Alex’s collarbone, eyes shut and utterly relaxed. Michael smiled against his hair. “Feeling better?”

Alex hesitated, then nodded, a silent concession, and held Michael’s arms tight around him like he was his favorite blanket. “Don’t let me fall asleep,” he said.

“I absolutely will,” Michael grinned, and pressed a kiss to Alex’s crown. “Don’t worry, baby, no one will mind. You’re practically their favorite Guerin.”

He’d said it to make Alex laugh, to feel his smile as Michael traced his lips with the tips of his fingers, but Alex only opened his eyes and looked up.

“Don’t say that,” he said. His voice was soft, but his brows were pinched like Michael had said something . . . scary.

“I don’t mind,” Michael said, an attempt to reassure. He held Alex even tighter and whispered against his brow, “In fact, I kind of love it –”

“I’m serious, Michael,” Alex sat up, frowning. “Don’t say stuff like that. I don’t want to be anyone’s favorite, I don’t want anyone comparing us, I –”

“Okay, okay,” Michael held his hands up in supplication, concerned. “Okay, Alex, I’m sorry, I won’t say it again.”

Alex swallowed and nodded and looked away, his cheeks dusted red. Michael dropped his hands and stared.

“You want to tell me what that was about?”

Alex scrunched his shoulders, and Michael saw him scooching a little further away, the way he tended to do when he was caught up in his own head and was expecting to be abandoned for it. Michael made up the distance at once, his legs bracketing Alex and holding onto his waist. After a lot of tough conversations and tears, Alex had stopped being as scared of Michael leaving him for his own anxiety, but there were still moments when he seemed to put distance between them anyway without realizing he was doing it. Michael wouldn’t let him this time.

Alex rubbed his face, his expression hidden behind his hands as he heaved a sigh. He dropped his hands and started tugging on his own fingers, and Michael placed his own hand in between them to give him something else to busy himself with while he sorted through his thoughts.

He found it strange that the past version of him would’ve been vibrating with anxiety and impatience, terrified that Alex would push him away and eager to do it first so that he didn’t have the chance to. Now, he knew better. He knew Alex had never wanted to be away from him, not really.

It was remarkably easy now, to put his chin on Alex’s shoulder and breathe him in and wait for him to be ready to talk. And eventually, he was.

“My dad used to pick favorites,” he said quietly, “between my brothers and me. It was one of his many tests, pitting us against each other.” He shook his head and shut his eyes. “I know it makes me stupid, and I know you and I are never going to compete with each other, but I can’t stand the idea that you could feel a second of what I did –”

“You’re not stupid,” Michael said, sliding a hand into his hair and shaking his head. “You’re wonderful, and your dad was an ass, and that’s not your fault.” He kissed his cheek. “Alex, I’m never going to feel unloved, never again. I spent my whole life with everyone choosing Max and Isobel over me, but they chose me. You choose me. As long as I’m your favorite . . .” his smile turned lazy, “then I win.”

Alex’s scoff turned to a weak laugh. “You’re such a . . .” his eyes softened. “I don’t want to be anyone’s favorite but yours.”

“Neither do I.”

“Good, because you are.”

Michael tried and failed to hide his giddy smile and blush. It wasn’t working, but the sparkle and happiness in Alex’s eyes was well worth the teasing that would inevitably come. “Say it again?”

Alex bit his lower lip despite his grin. “You’re my favorite, Guerin.”

“And you’re mine. Again.”

“You’re my favorite.”

“Hell yeah. Now,” he gently turned Alex towards their group of friends and said, “repeat it please, and make sure you’re loud enough for Valenti to hear.”

All of Alex’s anxiety vanished at once as he burst into laughter, and Michael turned a very smug face on a curious Kyle; he wished he could make Alex laugh like Michael could.

***

I hope things get better for you soon ❤️ Happy Malex Monday ❤️

[scriptorsapiens]

Classicstober Day 11: Pandora (𐀞𐀙𐀈𐀨)

Hesiod describes Pandora as the first woman, and each god gave her a gift, hence the name 'Pandora' which can be translated as 'all gifted.' Contrary to the modern popular image, Pandora was not a hapless dupe overcome by curiosity. She was made by Zeus as the original femme-fatale to inflict suffering on mankind (and also because Hesiod and ancient Greece in general were sexist as hell).

Pandora might be one of my more fanciful reconstructions; my version of her lived 400,000 years ago, long before any material culture might have been preserved, so I have nothing to go on but vibes. A friend and I decided several months ago that Pandora opening her 'box' was the cause of the "Human Bottleneck" Theory that is often linked to the eruption of Mt Toba. The Anthropology around this theory is speculative at best, but for the purposes of story I have decided to use that here too.

Since each of the gods contributed to her creation, I decided to represent them on her in various ways.

According to Hesiod, Hephaestus was the one who made the beautiful body for Pandora, which is why you can see a decorative version of his symbol painted onto her shoulder.

Aphrodite gave her … a thing that can't be said without offending the algorithm, so her symbol can be seen on Pandora's head and hands.

Hermes gave her a cunning mind, represented by the wings on her forehead, and persuasive speech, represented by his sing on her lips.

Athena clothed her in silvery robes, an embroidered veil, and an intricate crown, but since all of these things would not have been invented in the time of MY Pandora she wears a white fur, decorated with an ivory owl pin, and a crown of white cowrie shells instead.

The Graces gave her jewelry and garlands of flowers, the latter of which is the only Classical Greek element I gave to Pandora, based on depictions of garlands from classical bas relief sculpture.

Last but not least, the final gift to Pandora was from Zeus: a 'storage device' containing suffering and ailments. I have no idea when it was translated into a 'box,' but while I understand why it still does not represent the ancient myth. The classical authors described her storage vessel as a pithos, a jar used for storage. Since my version predates both concepts, I gave her an ostrich egg instead. Various anthropologists speculate that ostrich eggs might have been the first vessel humans used to carry water, and in addition to having the right shape to match a pithos an egg opens up a further metaphor: once cracked an egg can never be sealed again.

[worshipper-status]

💙Tips from a Worshipper💙: How to Make a Shrine

Hello! I hope you’re having a good day! This post is an idea I’ve had for a while so here’s my guide to making a shrine for your own darling! This post isn’t the be all end all to shrines but it’s tips and advice I’ve gathered from doing my own thing for a while. Feel free to add your own tips in the tags of this post if you reblog it. I’d appreciate it a lot!

1.) Get a shoe box or a larger gift  box if you want more space.

This is entirely for practicality purposes. You don’t want to have a full on shrine in your room, in case anyone ever visits you or goes in your room. It’s inconvenient and annoying to have to take it down and put it back up, if there’s a possibility someone may want to go in your room. This is particularly useful for me, because my beloved knows I identify as a yandere but I get self conscious about her seeing the things I do because of it, so keeping it in a neat enclosed space to take out and do what I please and then pack it up and put it away when I’m done helps a lot both mentally and for practical reasons. 

2.) Consider the materials you want for it. Don’t be afraid to have fun with it!

Your darling deserves a beautiful shrine! If you have photos of them, print them out and line the walls of the box with them, or simply just leave them in an envelope inside the box to flip through when you want. Maybe if you’re artsy, decorate the inside of the box with markers and pens. Get some stickers and slap those on the side of the box. Maybe there’s something you associate your darling with? Put imagery of those in there too! My beloved associates me with sharks and associates herself with eevees so there’s a lot of that going on in mine. I often leave a candle in the shrine to take out and light whenever I’m doing anything with it. Bonus points if you know what your darling smells like so you can grab a candle with a similar scent. Other things I leave in the shrine are things I use to symbolize tokens of affection, so crystals, rings, jewelry, art pieces I’ve drawn for her, gifts my darling has given me, printed screenshots of text conversations with my darling that make me happy, etc. This is very individualized to you and your darling, but if all else fails, just fill it up with things you associate them with. Do they really like bunnies? Bunny themes. Is there favorite color green? Green everything. Do they like nature? Nature motif. 

3.) What’s the purpose for the shrine? Adjust accordingly.

Maybe you just want the shrine as a storage space for things your darling has given you? Or maybe you want to use it as part of a nightly routine to make sure no matter what you’re giving your beloved the proper amount of love and affection and wishing them goodnight. Maybe you just want a space to express that obsessive side of you in peace, and then be able to pack it up and put it away as a coping mechanism for your obsessive thoughts. No shame in any of these options! But make sure you’re designing it to help you with these things. I tend to use mine as more of a place to express my obsessive side in peace and then pack it up and move on with my day, kind of as a way to satiate the thoughts. So what I did was I made a lock for my box. Yeah it’s not really functional, you could easily just rip open the box to see what’s inside, but it helps me make that mental distinction of, this is Worshipper time, and this is not Worshipper time. For nightly routine type shrines (or daytime whichever you prefer), I recommend having a pre determined nightly routine for this. Maybe every night, you talk to the shrine like it is your darling to get out thoughts you never said earlier, maybe you read off an honoring poem, maybe you just brush your hair in front of the shrine while daydreaming about your darling doing it, anything works, just make sure you have the things you need handy, such as keeping a printed poem in the box, or a hairbrush, or whatever else suits you. 

4.) Does your darling know you’re a yandere? Are you brave enough to ask them for things?

I know I’m lucky to have a darling that knows I’m a yandere and for the most part supports it. However, we are currently long distance (yeah, I know, it’s killing me) so I can’t get gifts from her often. However, once we are living together, I know I will not be afraid to ask for tokens of affection for the shrine. This is going to involve me stealing her hoodies (we’re the same size in clothes lol), maybe a few strands of hair from the bathroom sink, any little doodles or notes she leaves around, etc. This is also for those people lucky enough to have a vial of blood from their darling (I wish TwT). Give it an honorary display in your shrine for when you’re not wearing it. But yeah, if there’s anything in specific you want your darling to give you and you know they’d be willing, ASK FOR IT! 

5.) Consider a digital shrine!

I’ve actually just started curating my digital shrine and I think it’s a really good option for people! I have mine on a private discord server that’s just me and pluralkit. I use this server for mostly keeping track of my daily life stuff, system things, recipes, to do’s, etc. But at the bottom of the server, I have a separate channel for my shrine! It has all the selfies I’ve saved and gathered from my darling, images I’ve grabbed online that I feel embody our relationship, screenshots of convos, various poems and writings of mine, future ideas for dates and otherwise. It has been way easier to put together and curate than the physical one,  and I actually enjoy it quite a bit more. It’s a lot easier to make a daily thing, and a lot more fun for me too. I love scrolling through the internet and grabbing things to add to the shrine, throwing my own writings in the mix, and knowing that no one else is going to see it because it’s in a private discord server and unless someone gets onto my computer or phone, I’m fine. 

[julebirdie]

cinema

ft. dk batman/bruce wayne

reader is gn

not requested

disc. reader wears beaded bracelets (not rlly a disc), bruce is a total flirt, fourth wall is broken like two times, use of (y/n), reader likes horror movies

in all honesty, bruce had no idea why he was there, in front if that glass door. the sign above it read ‘g central films.’ it was a hole-in-the-wall store in the heart of gotham, most people passed by it without a second thought. so why didn’t he? what drew him here?

looking around for paparazzi—even though he disguised himself well enough— bruce pushed the door open and heard a bell ding above him. the store was very cluttered, film posters decorated the walls as semi-organized shelves held a wide array of movies, magazines, books, and merchandise.

“hi, sorry, i’ll be with you in a second!” a voice called out from a storage closet, and bruce took off the hood he was wearing, and took to strolling the shelves. he ran his fingers along the spines of the many medias present, feeling new and old items against his fingertips.

the sound of beaded bracelets clinking against each other was the largest indicator of someone’s presence, and an employee—who bruce could assume was also the owner— stood at the opening of the shelf-made hallway.

“holy shit-“ you gasped. when you came into work today, you expected many things. maybe scarecrow would break out of arkham and fear gas the city, or you’d be robbed by some goon, but having billionaire bruce wayne standing in your store was not on that list.

“i’m sorry- excuse my language- what can i help you with mr. wayne?” you asked.

“please, call me bruce.” he said, walking up to where you stood and stuck his hand out, inviting you to shake it—which you did.

“right, bruce, looking for anything in particular?” you inquired, letting your hand fall to your side as you fiddled with the hem of your shirt.

“to be completely honest with you, i didn’t come here with anything in mind,” bruce said, winking, “unless a cute store owner wants to recommend me something.”

your heart started to beat ridiculously fast, it wouldn’t have surprised you if bruce could hear it.

“erm- uh- do you have any genres you like? maybe we could start there?”

“hm, never really paid attention to film genres,” bruce shrugged. he absolutely did pay attention to them, but he’d be lying if he didn’t want to spend time with you, the cute movie enthusiast.

“right, um, i really like horror, uh, i have a few favorites if you wanna pick from them,” you mentally punched yourself for the constant nervous stuttering, though bruce found it very charming.

“sounds good to me, lead the way…”

“(y/n).”

“your name suits you.”

this flirting was gonna knock you off your feet.

you walked out from the shelf area and went behind the counter, digging in a box underneath. bruce stood in front, looking at the items in the glass display case that showcased the more expensive merchandise. whether it be an authentic autograph from cillian murphy (bruce wondered how you managed to get that,) a rare vinyl for a very popular band, or— bruce’s face heated up when he saw the batman-themed jewelry.

he was very flattered, can you tell?

“okay, here we are.” bruce snapped up from the items to see a small stack of horror movie cds propped in front of him. movies such as american psycho, scream, candyman, and the blair witch project caught his eye.

“anything catch your eye bruce? i can always find more if this isn’t up to your speed,” you said, tapping your fingers against the glass. bruce stared at the collection before picking up the cd for american psycho.

“i’ll go with this one,” he said.

“american psycho? alright, a lot of people think it’s garbage but i really like it— has anyone ever told you you look like christian bale?” you asked, picking up the rest of the cds before placing them where they were before.

“christian bale, hm. I definitely see a resemblance, is he your celebrity crush?” bruce teased, and you nearly dropped the cd as you were renting it out to him.

“pssh, no—i mean, not that you’re ugly you’re really handsome—uh, i mean—fuck-“ bruce laughed at the way you got when he teased you, it was adorable.

“right-heres your cd bruce,” you said, handing him the box with shaky hands. he took the box and gently lifted your hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss against the back of it.

“i think i’ll be coming here more often,” bruce said, pulling up his hood and walking out the store, sending a smile your way before he blended in with the bustling crowd of gotham.

you pressed your cold hands to your face, trying to cool down. today was eventful, more than you could’ve ever expected. and, you wouldn’t complain if bruce stopped by again.

[magicalshopping]

♡ Material Ghoul Coffin Box from Claire's ♡

[nostalgiclittlespace]

Hiding Little Gear

For closeted regressors, hiding their gear is as important as it is stressful.  And, unfortunately, I can’t give a cookie-cutter answer of ‘this is how to hide your gear, foolproof,’ as we all having very different living situations and families.  However, I still hope to give some ideas and guidelines on how to best hide your stuff.

Consider if it would be best to hide all your stuff in one place, or to scatter it around.   If you have family members who snoop through your belongings, it would probably be better to find the most secure possible hiding place, and put everything there.  However, if you’re fairly private, then hiding things individually might not be a bad idea either.  It’s a lot easier to explain a singular kid item than a whole bunch of them if they happen to be found.

If you keep all your things in a bag or box, make it as inconspicuous as possible.  While it would be super fun to have a childishly decorated box or themed backpack to hold your things, these might attract attention.  Stashing them in an unmarked box/bag might be less suspicious.

Have a response prepared in case you are caught.  Be prepared, especially if you have little privacy, a high chance of having your gear discovered, and/or you want to remain closeted.  Keeping your cool with a scripted response will certainly help with these.  (I’ll be making a list of suggestions for these another time!)

Be open when you can.  I don’t mean shouting that you’re a regressor from the rooftops, but hiding things in plain sight that aren’t suspicious is one of the best ways to not get caught.  Casually using a coloring book, keeping a stuffed animal on your bed, etc, doesn’t have to be a big deal, and it might not even be questioned.

Keep things themed as something you enjoy in your Big Headspace too/aren’t inherently for kids.  Having something like Sonic the Hedgehog stickers, kawaii notebook, a cool plush, a Disney T-shirt, etc can be for adults and kids.  Things that for any age are perfect because even if they’re found, they aren’t weird to have/can be explained easily.

Places to consider stashing your gear:

Under your mattress

In an old backpack

In clothes’ pockets

A random box in your closet, hidden by other boxes, clothes, etc

Inside a pillowcase 

Keep things like your journal and coloring pages digital if you don’t want them snooped through

Find a stuffed animal with an open-able back, and hide things inside.  Some weighted plushies have their weights removable through a velcro or zipper opening, and these are perfect for hiding things like pacifiers

Make one of those fake books with a secret compartment (I think there are tutorials on YouTube)

A jewelry box with a lock

In a storage bin of your childhood things; I have a box of old things like baby clothes, a favorite plushie of when I was a baby, etc—anything found in there won’t be questioned

That’s all for now! If you have any more suggestions, please share them! Happy regressing, everyone!

-Marty 👻

[caterpills]

This is so fun!! Thank you for the tags from @anti-homophobia-cheese @14carrotghoul @alasse9 @taste-thewaste

Everyone's rooms are so lovely, I will need to steal some things to decorate my room, obviously.

Not sure who has done this yet, so if you want to play along DO IT, and then tag me so I can peeps what I want to steal.

[oftlunarialmoon]

What To Put In A Self Care Box? How to Make a Box for Self Care !

Originally posted to www.onlyfunthings.org on May 21, 2018

Ciao lovelies! Today's post is about how to make a self-care box and what kind of stuff to put in it!

A self-care box is a box filled with items that you can use when you're having a rough day, or just need a bit of self care. What do you need for this?

Well for starters, a box!

I've got some boxes here, as examples. You can find big or small pretty photo storage boxes at craft stores and if you get them on sale they can be relatively cheap. You can also use a shoebox and either decorate it or leave it plain. You can use a "tupperware" style clear box as well. You can even use a jewelry holder styled box, like the one of the top of this pile- I found this one at a thrift store.

For my personal self care box, I will be using this pineapple pattern photo storage box from Joann's:

So, now you've got your box, hooray! Step one, done. Now, what do we put in it?

To begin, I put in this small book of Hello Kitty word searches. It's good to put things to distract yourself in your self care box. And small things that can lead to feelings of accomplishment, like word searches, are good for kicking bad feelings to the curb. 

Next I added some bath bombs, the big one is cucumber and the small one is peppermint. Bath bombs can help encourage you to take care of yourself hygiene wise and will motivate you to bathe/shower. You can also include nicely scented bodywash, bubble bath, bath crackles, a cute toothbrush/hairbrush, anything that will motivate you to take care of your hygiene.

I also added a movie I like to watch. Movies can be a great distraction from bad feelings, and provide you with something else to think about for a while. Movies can also take you to other worlds, and watching a movie while upset can really change your mood! Just make sure you choose an uplifting movie.

After that, I added some perfume, nail polish, and lip balm. Sometimes taking care of your appearance can help uplift your mood, I know it does for me. Plus, lip balm is good for your lips and as for the perfume, I always feel better when I smell nice. 

What else did I add to my box?

I also added:

-Small Toys: I like to use small toys as a kind of Stim, they relax me and I like how cute they are.

-Stimming Items: I included a container of Silly Putty, 2 containers of modeling dough, and a fidget spinner as stimming items for myself in my box. For more info on Stimming, see THIS post.

- A bow hairclip: So I can feel cute even on my down days.

-Vitamin B-12: This vitamin is good for helping with energy levels and balancing mood! I also will later be including vitamin D because sometimes I don't go outside enough, become Vitamin D deficient, and then my depression worsens due to it. So including that vitamin can help as well!

What else could you include in your self-care box?

-Your Favorite Book: Reading, like movies, can take you to a different world and really affect your mood!

-Small Stuffed Animals: Having a small stuffed animal or two in your box could really provide some comfort!

-Friend's Phone Numbers: To text or call them when times get hard.

-Small Snacks (that don't need to be refrigerated): Sometimes you get into a bad mood because you might have missed a meal or your body needs a snack. Some fun snacks that you can keep in your self-care box include: gummies, fruit snacks, crackers, pretzels, cheese crackers, goldfish, dark chocolate chips (Which can help with mood!)..... the possibilities are pretty much endless! You can also keep a reusable water bottle and flavor packets in your box so you stay hydrated!

-A Journal And Something To Write With: So you can write about your feelings. Sometimes writing can be the best outlet.

-Coloring Pages/Book and Coloring Supplies: Keeping a coloring book or coloring pages and markers, crayons, or colored pencils in your self care box can provide a great outlet for stress relief!

-Nice Scented Lotion: To moisturize your skin. I find this to be a soothing thing. 

-Squishies: These can be great stress relievers. If you don't like squishies, maybe try a stress ball instead!

-Whatever Makes You Happy! In the end, this box is yours to customize to your hearts content, because this box's sole purpose is to make you happy!

What do you lovelies think of the idea of making a self-care box? Would you ever make one? Let us know in the comments!

Remember to Stay Awesome and Love Yourself!

[bigsoftmarshmallow]

You know something that I realized a while back? Because of the presence of Sand Seals, the Wild Era Gerudo have most likely cornered the market on ivory. And without having to hurt their little buddies, either. I remember reading that the tusks of walruses (which is more what sand seals resemble) grow continuously through their lives. Eventually, they outgrow their caps & the tusks loosen & fall out. Now, Google's AI says that they grow new ones throughout their lives, but I'm gonna try to get a second opinion on that one, but if they do, then that, right there, is a stable source of income for the Gerudo. So, it's possible that part of how they began to get a better foothold as a society might've been whatever lead to them encountering & domesticating Sand Seals.

I still wish they hadn't lost touch with their equestrian & horseback archery past, but I suppose that this helps fill the void.

But, yeah. I found that interesting!

So I did some googling:

Art: Ivory has been used to make carvings, statues, jewelry, and other art forms.

Everyday items: Ivory has been used to make combs, knife handles, pipes, buttons, storage containers, and more.

Musical instruments: Ivory has been used to make piano keys, violin bows, and other instruments.

Religious objects: Ivory has been used to make religious objects.

Craftwork: Ivory has been used to make netsuke, which are miniature decorative sculptures attached to inro, a portable box carried on kimono belts.

Seals: Ivory has been used to make seals

Heh... Seals making seals. Heheheheheh...

That is very neat! No wonder they have such a thriving community in the desert. Desert Seals.... very useful in many ways!

[brainyxbat]

Roronoa Venus- Hungry Days 1

New Friends, and Past Humiliation

One day after school, Roronoa Zoro was pondering a thought over kendo practice. His fraternal twin sister, named Venus, was always lonely; not to mentioned bullied frequently. Other than him, and their parents, she had no one to fall back on. No one to hang out with her during lunch, or after school hours. It didn't help that she was almost cripplingly shy; she had been for as long as he can remember, so he always protected her. Bullies mockingly called him her bodyguard in times like this, but he couldn't care less.

He himself had friends; Franky, Robin, Brook, Nami, boy genius Chopper, Usopp, and the group leader Luffy. Plus Sanji, to an extent... he shook his head in irritation at the blond Casanova wannabe. He didn't know them for that long, but they were all good people... even if Sanji was overeager with every pretty girl in school. What if Venus could join their little circle? Surely they would accept her; and she would finally have friends.

Huffing in fatigue, he set the bamboo shinai on its hooks hung on his bedroom door, and walked down the upstairs hallway to the room next to his. After a minute of waiting, the music from her electric violin had slowed a stop, before he heard her set it down. "Venus?" He knocked on the black-painted door. "Can I talk to you about something?

"Sure, come on in." He opened up, and lingered at the doorway. "What's up?"

One thing to know about his sister: She was a Goth girl. A "Mall Goth", to be precise. They both had queen-size beds with storage drawers, and black exteriors, but hers had a black dress-like canopy hung above the cushioned headboard, over an arch-shaped decal featuring the night sky with a full moon, so it wasn't hidden by the black wall. The window seat, and the small black tent, which was printed with white bats, were littered with small pillows, and stuffies, as was her bed around where her head laid. There were large moon and star shaped lights dangling front of the window, and alongside various cosmetics, her vanity had 4 different jewelry holders, one for more than just earrings. There was also a black and purple jewelry box with multiple sections for rings, bracelets, chokers, and... tragus earrings.

Now, she didn't have either of them pierced, but she planned on having the left done on their 18th birthday. What possessed her to have such a crazy idea, he still couldn't comprehend, but he didn't want to stop her. After all, it was her decision, and their parents approved of the idea when it was first pitched. And he supposed it was better than her actual face; their parents would each have an aneurysm if she came home with a ring in her septum.

"Well, tomorrow after homework, my friends and I are going to the mall for... stuff."

She nodded, while sitting on her bed. "Okay, hope you have fun-"

"Wait," He cut her off, "Do you want to come, Venus?"

Her eyebrows raised in genuine surprise under her green, asymmetrical bangs. "Really? Me?"

"Is there anyone else here named Venus?" He smirked coyly, earning a playful eye roll from her. "There's two girls in my group; you can shop around with them, and you could find some friends in all of them. You did just get paid, didn't you? And you're off tomorrow?"

"Y-yeah," She replied, "I did, and I am." In the same mall, she worked at a shop specializing in the Goth lifestyle, mostly stuff that was wearable, but with the occasional home decor, and some items revolving around witchcraft such as crystals. Basically, it was her dream job, despite it being only part-time, and even with occasional rude customers, she loved it there. "You really want me to come?"

"Yeah, if you want."

"But... what if they won't like me?"

"They will. Trust me; you'll fit right in."

After a moment of silence, she nodded, as a smile grew. "I'd love to."

"Okay. You can meet them during lunch before we go."

"Deal. Do they already know I'm coming?"

"Yeah, I texted them earlier, in our group chat. They're all good with it, as long as you're wanting to come. And they're eager to meet you."

"Awesome; feeling's mutual."

-

The next day, as the hours ticked by, Venus felt excited, yet nervous at the same time. She was going to not only meet Zoro's friends, but also hang out with them! But... what if they actually didn't like her, despite his assurance? What if they thought she was too strange? Or quiet? She never fit in anywhere, especially here at school; despite the love she received, she felt like the black sheep even in her family.

Before long, lunchtime came. Time to meet the friends. As she walked to the cafeteria with Zoro, her heart beat faster in her chest. He noticed her troubled expression, and her hands being more fidgety than usual. "You okay?" He asked.

"Yeah, I'm... just nervous."

"You'll be fine. They'll like you; I know it." They joined the line in the room, him watching for any bullies on the prowl. His heart boiled with fury at a certain, lilac-haired boy waving tauntingly at her; Zoro wished he could whack that smug grin off his insufferable face, but him getting detention wouldn't help her. When his turn was up, he looked over the pre-watered Nissin Cup Noodles available, while grabbing a Smokey & Spicy Sio for himself. "Looks like there's no chicken ones here, V."

"Yeah, sorry hon," Carmen, the flamboyant cafeteria lady, frowned apologetically. She was also the school's dance instructor, and had some boys, and girls, drooling with her fiery reddish-pink hair, purple eyes, and overall gorgeous looks.

"It's okay," Venus assured, and looked over the selections, "Hmm... I'll try this one. Thanks." She grabbed one of the mild curry cups, along with a pair of chopsticks, before paying for her meal, and following Zoro to the tables.

"There they are," He gestured to a particular one occupied by a certain group, and she looked nervous again, "They'll like you." Keeping an arm around her shoulders, he led her around the other tables, saving her from being tripped when passing one of the bullies. He also saved her noodles from being spilled, and her chopsticks from being dropped. "Damn bastard," He grumbled in irritation, before approaching, and turning to the group he sought out. "Guys, this is my twin sister I told you about, Venus."

"H-hi," She stammered, mentally observing them all, as Zoro introduced them. They all had cup noodles like them, but for the most part, different flavors each. One of the girls, aptly named Robin, had black, shoulder-length hair with even bangs, and an olive skin tone, while the other, paler Nami, had an orange bob, and a pink sweater vest. Luffy had shaggy black hair, and along with his school uniform, wore a straw hat with a red band on his head, while Franky, who looked pretty buff, had light blue hair in a cowlick almost like Ace Ventura, a red Hawaiian shirt with green palm trees under his blazer, and a bandage across the bridge of his nose. Tall Brook had a puffy, black afro, round black shades, and seemed to be merely skin and bones. He seemed to be holding a violin case in his lap.

Sanji was... reaching towards her? "Well hello there, Venus." He took her free hand with a chivalrous look on his face, as she looked on awkwardly. "Who would've thought a twin of Marimo would be so lovely?"

"Uh-" She was about to respond, but Zoro pulled her hand back for her, before the blond could kiss it.

"Back off, curlybrow."

Sanji sneered at him, missing her smirk of awkward gratitude towards her brother. "We were having a moment there, kendo brain."

"Will you two stop already?" Nami scolded, before turning to Venus with a smile. "It's nice to finally meet you."

"Y-you guys too," She responded timidly.

"Anyway," Zoro gave Sanji one last sneer, before returning to the original topic for the final introduction, "And this here is Usopp."

"Hi, I-" Venus turned to him, just as he looked up to her from the table, and they made eye contact... and she couldn't turn away. "I, uh..." His mop of wavy, black curls; his tan complexion; his dark grey eyes; his cute, long nose. Blood rushed to her ivory cheeks, turning them pink; he was so handsome. Wait, what? "Um, I-I'm Venus. R-Roronoa Venus."

Usopp in turn, felt like he was looking at an angel, as he lowered his orange headphones to around his neck in a daze. What with her flowing, yet messy green hair, her ivory skin, and her dark green eye; she was beautiful. Her uniform stood out with her white shirt having a black bat collar, and her sweater vest being black with a small, white moon at the neckline. "N-nice to meet you. Um, please sit," He stammered, "Room for one more."

"Thanks." She sat down on the bench, directly across from him, with her brother next to her. She noticed his noodles cup, and giggled at its familiarity. "You got the curry too?"

"Oh yeah, it's my favorite. Yours?"

"Well um, I love the tasty chicken best, but they're out of it right now, so uh, I decided to try this one today." Through her reply, she stuck her chopsticks in, and began twirling some noodles.

"Well, you're going to love it."

Zoro glanced back and forth, as his sister exchanged smiles with one of his friends. What was going on here? Were they... in love with each other? That quickly? From what he remembered, last year, Venus vowed to never date again after a... humiliating incident. But it seemed she was now retracting that statement. "Mm!" Venus' hum of delight snapped him out of his thoughts. "It's great! I do love it!"

"It is, isn't it?" Usopp agreed. "The little kick really adds to it."

"Little kick?" She blinked in genuine confusion, surprising him.

He was also flustered on how her long lashes fluttered from the movements. "Y-yeah, there's a-"

"She has a high tolerance for spicy foods," Zoro explained after a bite of his lunch, "Sour foods too. If her meal came with a lemon slice, like to squeeze the juice out, after getting some on her fish or whatever, she'd eat it like it was an orange."

Nami couldn't help but stifle a laugh. She could imagine the shocked expressions from any witnesses around them during such a thing. Not to mention any waiters realizing the wedge was completely missing from their platter when cleaning up. "Really?"

"Y-yeah," Venus nodded after swallowing some noodles, " I've been able to for as long as I can remember."

"That's pretty impressive," Usopp complimented, "You do take the seeds out first, right?"

"Thanks," She smiled shyly, before hiding it with gulping from her soda bottle. "Oh yeah, I do. Y-you should've seen our parents' faces the first time," She snickered, and they all laughed after she demonstrated.

The rest of the period went smoothly; Venus fit in very well with Zoro's peer group, as she felt less and less nervous by the minute. Needless to say, she was definitely going out with them after school. And she couldn't wait! Once they were seated on the bus later, Venus started on her homework, with Zoro staying alert next to her. He helped her on occasion, and she was done just as their home was approaching.

"See you guys later!" Luffy waved, as the bus stopped at the Roronoa household first.

"See ya!" Venus waved back, blushing again when Usopp shot a smile at her. After smiling back, she went to follow Zoro out, only for another attempted tripping to be successful. She toppled face-down to the floor, with her violin case thumping on her back. "Oww!" Obnoxious rich brat Charlos laughed mockingly, bringing his leg back in front of his seat, as her knee lightly throbbed in pain.

"Hey, you bastard!" Usopp glared, as Zoro helped his sister to her feet. "You can't do that to her!"

"What'cha gonna do about it, Pinocchio?" Charlos taunted him in retortion without looking back, as his sister Shalria, equally horrible, laughed next to him.

"If I had a nickel every time I heard that one," An unfazed Usopp rolled his eyes, "I'd retire at 18. Now leave her alone!" He recoiled nervously with a squeak when the porky bully turned to him with an intimidating, challenging look, but kept his defiant glare, before relaxing when he looked ahead again.

Venus smiled at him again in silent gratitude, with him returning it, as she and Zoro exited the bus. Tera, the twins' mother, turned to them as they entered the house. "Hey, how was school?" She gasped lightly in concern, and rushed to her daughter, as they stepped out of their shoes. She had a scrape on her right knee above her black uniform sock, that was an angry red, and starting to bleed a little. "Oh, Venus. Shalria tripped you again?"

She shook her head. "Charlos, on the bus."

Tera sighed deeply. "When will the principal ever do anything? You better patch that up, dear, before you bleed out."

"I will," Venus nodded, "I'll do that right now. M-my homework's already done." She rushed to the upstairs bathroom.

Zoro watched her go, before huffing in exasperation, running his hand on his short, green hair. "That damn Rosward won't keep them in line, no matter how many complaints I send his way. They get no more than a slap on the wrist; not even detention."

"Unbelievable," Tera frowned, "Something needs to be done."

"Agreed." He glanced up at the stairwell, as he heard Venus go into her room, gingerly closing the door. It was soon followed by her violin music. "So, after homework, my friends and I are going to the mall. Venus hit it off with them at lunch, so she's coming with us."

"That's wonderful!" She smiled joyfully. "I bet you'll have a great time."

"Yeah, and uh, lunch went pretty... interestingly."

"What do you mean?"

"You remember Usopp? Long nose, black curls?"

"Yeah, I remember him. He's a nice boy; what about him?"

"Well... it seems like Venus now has a crush on him." Tera's eyebrows raised in surprise. "And he her; like, when they were first introduced."

"Really? Aww, love at first sight!" She gushed. "Is she going to date him?"

"It's hard to say. I mean last year, she said she'd never date again, but I guess we'll see how today goes. I trust Usopp with her; I just dread something happening, that breaks her heart."

"That's understandable, honey. You're a good brother, looking out for her."

"Thanks, Mom. I do my best." Zoro glanced at the stairwell again. "I'd better get my homework done, and some kendo practice in before we go."

"Alright. But don't push yourself too hard in kendo; just because you can't defeat that Mihawk fellow, doesn't mean you're not amazing at it."

"Thanks, will do." He walked upstairs without another word.

Tera sighed to herself, as she watched him go. She wished he wouldn't push himself so hard; he was hospitalized for exhaustion recently, and had to have his shinai hidden, in order to make him take it easy. Venus was frantic, even having the idea of hiding it, and did everything she could to help.

She didn't want anything like that happening again.

-

After some practicing, she set her violin down in its coffin-shaped case, and began searching through her vast amount of clothes for something to wear later. This was the first time in years, if not ever, that she had friends to hang out with; she wanted to make a good impression. Especially on... Usopp? Yeah, that was it. She smiled, as her mind wandered; through the short time she'd known him so far, he was so sweet. Not to mention fun to talk with.

After snapping out of it, she stripped out of her school uniform, and for a start, pulled on her black fishnet tights with moons and stars accented all over. She scoured through her dominantly dark-colored wardrobe, before deciding on a black sleeveless dress with a pleather batwing collar, ditching the plain black belt in favor of one with a silver dual-rose buckle. In her hair, she shifted a black thin headband lined with five bows, before adding in ghost flower earrings that dangled with a light, delightful clinking. Noticing the oncoming, beautiful gloominess outside, she grabbed, and pulled on a black hoodie printed with clouds, some having fangs and lightning bolts. Under her tights was a bandage shaped like a Goth Milk carton to cover her small wound.

"Oi, Venus! Are you ready yet?! It's been almost 10 minutes!"

"Yeah, I'm coming!" She grabbed her spiderweb heart purse, lavender shopper tote, and black and purple batwing umbrella, threw her door open, and ran downstairs, oblivious to him tensing up at the latter. "I'm ready!" Zoro waited by the door, as she slipped her feet in a pair of black flats with shiny leather pumpkin faces in a darker black. He himself was in his usual black pants and shoes, with a yellow zip-up t-shirt.

"Mom, we're leaving!" He called out.

"Okay! Have fun, you two! Text me when you're getting home, so I can start on dinner!"

"We will!" Venus promised, before following him out to the public bus. "I'm excited."

"That's good. I told you they would like you."

"Yeah," She snickered, "You did. They're all really nice; though Sanji's kinda strange."

Zoro snorted with an eyeroll. "Do not look behind that curtain, I'm warning you. I'm just glad you like Usopp instead of that dumbass."

"Huh? W-what're you-"

"Venus, we're siblings." He cut her off, not buying her oblivious façade. "Twins at that; I can practically read your mind. And I saw it in your face."

She giggled, and pushed his hand away when he prodded at the side of her head. "Yeah, but... yeah," She caved, and shyly fiddled with one of her earrings, "He's just so sweet, and handsome."

"Well, I trust him, but I'm saying this because you're my sister... just be careful. Remember what happened last year; I don't want you going through that again."

"I know," She nodded, "But I have a good feeling."

Before he could respond, the bus stopped outside the mall, prompting them to disembark. Zoro held his much-shorter-than-him twin's hand to help her off the step without falling on her face, before checking the most recent text from the group leader. "Luffy said they'll be just inside this entrance."

"'Kay." With that, they began walking. In her peripherals, she caught him mindlessly wandering away, and yanked him back on the right path with a stifled snicker. "Going somewhere?"

"Shut up."

She giggled, as they walked through the automatic doors. She may have less emotional maturity between the two of them, but she had always been better with directions.

Less than a minute after entering, they found the familiar group standing close by, waiting on them by a large, digital directory. "Hey, guys!" Luffy called out with an enthusiastic wave of his hand. "Over here!" Venus brightened up upon noticing them, and made a beeline.

Now that they were out of their school uniforms, their real styles showed, and they their personalities quite nicely. Luffy was in blue denim Bermuda shorts, a red tank top, and a pair of brown flip-flops, along with what seemed to be his signature hat. Sanji was in a dark blue t-shirt with the word "Gentlecook" in lighter blue font, black jeans, and black Vans shoes. Franky was in his red Hawaiian shirt from school, dark blue knee-length shorts, and grey sandals. Brook stood out in particular, with his light pink skinny jeans with studs along the front pockets, brown loafers, blue and white striped t-shirt with "Summer Body" along the front in darker blue, and a large, cotton candy tie dye sunhat over his afro.

Robin was in a white button-up shirt-dress accented with purple specks, black shiny knee-high boots, and a black pleather jacket. Nami wore dark blue Bermuda shorts, brown strappy sandals, and a green tank top with darker green flower silhouettes.

She blushed at Usopp, specifically; he was in a white t-shirt, blue jeans with a lighter-hued belt, and patches on the knees, brown combat boots, and a thin, light purple button-up over it all, with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. "H-hi, Usopp," She stammered after walking up to him, avoiding eye contact. Crap, she was nervous again. Why did he have to be so cute?

"Hey, Venus," He greeted her in return, struggling to keep his composure himself, "Y-you look great." More than great; she looked adorable. But he was scared of being too straightforward, remembering how Zoro told all of them about her shyness.

"Thanks," Her cheeks flushed even deeper, "So do you."

Nami smiled widely to herself while watching them; something was definitely happening. "Okay, so where to first?" Robin asked around.

As they wandered, and shopped, Venus bonded even more with the group. At certain places, she stuck by Nami and Robin, while the boys did their own thing across from the shop. "So, Venus," Nami turned to the shorter girl, prompting her to look down at her hands browsing necklaces, "You and Usopp are getting pret-ty cozy there."

"W-what?"

"You have a crush on Usopp."

"N-no," She fibbed.

Nami tilted her head with a look of skepticism. "Venus, I may have only met you today, but I can already tell; you're a terrible liar."

Venus was silent, as she moved on to hair accessories. "It's nothing to be embarrassed about," Robin assured, "You've had crushes before, right?"

She was briefly hesitant, thinking about the previous year. "Yeah, but this time feels... different. Although..." She trailed off.

"Although?" Robin repeated with motherly patience.

"I'm... scared to date again. Since last year; I don't want to talk about it."

"And you don't have to," The raven-haired girl said, "But Usopp is very sweet. He would never hurt anyone. And besides... he seems to be quite fond of you."

Venus looked up at her with surprise, though her gaze stayed downward after a split second of eye contact. "Really?"

-

"So, Usopp," Zoro approached his long-nosed friend, who was trying to pick out a game to try out next, "You seem to be getting quite close with Venus, huh?"

He was startled out of his internal debate by the sudden query. "Oh, uh... y-yeah?"

Zoro snorted at his wariness. "Chill out, I'm not gonna kill you."

"Oh good," He chuckled nervously, "Sorry, Zoro. It's just when I first saw her, standing in front of me... I couldn't look away." He sighed with a headshake. "She's so cute, and pretty. And very sweet."

"I'm glad you think so."

"Has she dated before?"

Zoro sighed in hesitation. "She has, and I won't go into details for her sake, but they were... never good."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that," Usopp's heart swelled with sympathy. Who would have the nerve to hurt someone as kind and meek as Venus? She seemed like she wouldn't hurt a fly. "I won't pry, but she doesn't deserve that treatment. And I promise I would never do that to her. I'd treat her the way she deserves; like a princess."

Zoro smiled just a little. "Thanks, man. I trust you."

"No prob," Usopp nodded with a returning smile, before turning back to the two games in his hands, and holding them up for him to see the covers. "Which of these should I get?"

"Found it!" Chopper cheered, holding up the newest Super Mario game in victory.

-

A few minutes later, the teens regrouped after finishing up. Venus walked straight to Usopp, while he also did for her; it didn't go unnoticed by the others, as they smiled to themselves, and each other. "Can we go down that way?" She pointed to the left-side walkway.

"Sure," Nami agreed, and they headed in said direction. Zoro smirked to himself; he knew the reason behind her request, but kept quiet, so she could explain it herself. "What's down here?"

Venus pointed to a sign straight ahead. It featured the shop's name in a stylized font in black, with a dark blue witch hat bearing constellations on the first M, while the last O was a crescent moon. "You uh, you guys see that shop there, Modern Majo?"

"Yeah," Robin nodded.

"That's where I work."

Nami's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Really?"

"Yep, part-time at least. It's independently owned too. At times, there's um, some rude people coming in like you'd expect, but my boss is amazing, as is the shop itself. Can we, uh-"

"Yeah, we can go in," Franky replied, "Seems like a bit of Robin's speed."

-

The shop was... quite interesting. Not only did it have apparel, jewelry (those for body piercings included), hair accessories, and home trinkets, all in a Gothic style, it also had items commonly associated with witchcraft. The table near the entrance had crystals, tarot cards, and cauldrons. Her boss, Toribia Hekate, was delighted that her kind-hearted, yet lonely and introverted worker had friends; and like them, saw how Usopp looked at the girl.

They witnessed her barking at a particularly ill-mannered customer, effectively scaring him off, and heard sad stories from both her and Venus, about the latter receiving verbal abuse. More often than not, they had happy endings, but their hearts ached for her; especially Usopp's, and Zoro's, although the latter had already heard them all.

They soon left with Robin carrying a small bag, while Venus had one much bigger. Not only was she a hard-working employee there, she may be its best customer as well. "So um, what'd you guys think?"

"Cool place," Robin replied with a smile.

"Yeah, it is," Nami agreed, "I mean, it's not my style, but it's definitely yours; and it's great that you work at a place you love like that."

"Thanks."

Usopp was blushing, as he glanced around mindlessly; before they left, Hekate had pulled him aside by the fitting room, which had a huge, heavy curtain in place of two walls around two large mirrors, for a little, private chat. The short, yet intimidating old woman extracted a promise from him to be good to Venus, which he vowed to inact one day. She deserved all the love; and he wanted to give it to her.

When they passed by a quaint little bakery selling an extensive array of small desserts, he had an idea; he turned to Venus, hoping he won't make her nervous with his offer. "Um, can I buy you a little treat?"

She glanced over behind him, and nodded with a smile. "Sure, thanks!"

"Since you're buying-"

"No," Usopp cut Luffy off, "I only have enough for Venus, and me." With that little fib, he escorted her inside to the back of the short line. While it was just two of them, he couldn't help but notice; she was short. The top of her head had just barely touched the bottom of his chin. That just made her all the more adorable to him.

As a disappointed Luffy pouted, Zoro looked on in bafflement. "What's happening?"

"Oh, I'll tell you what's happening," Nami grinned widely, "They like each other!" She almost squealed.

"Like each other how?" Chopper asked innocently.

Robin patted his shoulder with a motherly smile. "You'll understand when you're older."

"Well yeah, but... th-that fast?" He stammered. "They only met just today."

"Dude, he's smoother with her than Sanji is with every girl in school," Franky laughed.

"Shut up!"

Zoro couldn't help but snicker at the embarrassed blond's expense. "Ah, keep sucking your candy." He turned his attention back to the others. "I don't know, I do trust him; I just don't want her to get hurt... again."

Robin frowned with sympathy. "We get it. You want to protect her; you're a good brother for that."

He smiled a little, as he remembered his mother telling him that same thing earlier that day. "Thanks. She hasn't had any good dating experience, so I worry every time." He didn't want to bring up the particular incident from last year; she could tell them when she was ready.

In the bakery, Usopp and Venus' turn in line came up. "What can I get you, young man?" The guy greeted.

"Hmm..." He looked over the individual cake slices, that almost made him drool, "I'll have the cookie dough kind."

"Mm." He smiled at Venus' hum of delight.

"And for the lady?"

"Um," She followed his lead, before perking up at spotting one of her favorite kinds. One she and Zoro commonly chose together. "T-the Oreo one, please."

"Coming right up." Venus licked her lips, as he promptly paid. "Name?"

"Usopp."

"Alright, once they're ready, I'll call you lovebirds over."

They both blushed deeply at that, before they nodded. "We-we're uh, just friends," Usopp reluctantly stammered, and she nodded with a sheepish grin, "Thanks." After each grabbing a spoon, they had a seat at a vacant table to wait. 'I wish we were more, though,' He thought to himself. Little did he know, she was thinking the same, almost word by word.

"Um," He turned to Venus when she spoke up, "Zoro and I would come here with our parents whenever we had an accomplishment of some kind."

"Oh yeah?"

"Yep. Like if we aced a test, Zoro won a kendo tournament, or whatever. I've won a talent show or two, which also brings us here."

"Ah." He had actually never attended any of the shows himself. None of the group did; except Zoro, that is. "What's your talent?"

"I play an electric violin."

"Oh yeah, Zoro brought that up once or twice," He recalled, "That's really cool."

"Thanks."

"Maybe someday, I can come over, and you can practice for me."

She smiled at the idea; that sounded great to her. "I'd like that." She hoped he wouldn't be put off by how her bedroom was decorated, and/or think of her as a weirdo.

He noticed her change of face, and frowned with concern. "You sure?" He must've been too forward there.

"Oh yeah, I'm sure," She replied, "I'm just worried you'll, um..." He waited patiently for her to find the proper wording. "You'll think I'm weird. 'Cause I'm a..."

"Goth?" He smiled warmly, making her blush deeper. "Yeah, Zoro mentioned that too. Plus I saw it in how you dress." His heart fluttered at her looking down at the table, fiddling with her hoodie drawstring. She was so cute; he wanted to hug her, but that would definitely be going too fast at the moment. "It's okay; I really like it on you."

"Oh, t-thanks." She gave a cheerful, teeth-baring grin. "You'll love my room, then," She giggled, and laughed with him.

"I bet I will."

"Usopp?"

"That's us." He stood back up, and as she followed his lead, he took her hand without thinking. She noticed just after she was on her feet; they blushed red, before they both drew back slowly with awkward grins. Little too soon. After getting their respective slices, they left the shop, and rejoined their friends. "We're back."

"We see that," Brook teased, "You treating your new girlfriend?" He laughed with a kind that sounded like a classic pirate, only more joyful.

Usopp rolled his eyes, as Venus giggled awkwardly, taking the clear top off her plastic platter. "I just met her earlier today, y'know. We all did, except Zoro."

Zoro looked over, and stifled a grin at Sanji's dark scowl. "Envy's not a good look on you."

"Shut up, Marimo."

"Mmm, so good!" Venus beamed, interrupting the tense moment. "Like always." She smiled up at Usopp, who began eating his own. "Um, thanks for buying."

"You're welcome."

Nami smirked at them, as they enjoyed their slices. "Trying to mock us there, huh?" She joked. "Treating her, and not the rest of us, Mr. Favorites-Player."

Usopp snickered. "Well forgive me for wanting to do something nice for a special girl," He retorted with a smirk.

Special girl? Venus felt like her cheeks were on fire, as she kept her gaze on her platter. He was so sweet; she wanted to tackle him in a big hug, but was much too timid for such a bold move. Not to mention his cake would wind up on the floor, and she certainly didn't want that.

Zoro raised a brow in her direction, before smirking at her flustered state. She's got it bad for his friend; wait until their parents hear about this.

Before long, the great day came to an inevitable end. "Um, t-thanks for letting me join you guys," Venus stammered, "This was really fun."

"You're welcome!" Luffy beamed. "You can hang out with us all the time! I like you!"

She giggled, as everyone agreed. "Thanks. I'd love that."

"Want me to drive you guys home?" Franky offered.

"You sure I'll fit?" Venus asked nervously.

"Oh yeah," He assured, "Room for one more, half-pint."

"Franky drives a vintage VW bus," Robin explained, "He fixed it up himself."

"Ah, cool!" Venus grinned. "Thanks, that sounds great!" She stepped inside to the back seats with Zoro, and admired the interior, as he shot a text to Tera. When Robin said Franky fixed it up, she wasn't kidding around; the seat was so comfortable, and it had the features of a modern vehicle, while appearing vintage on the outside. It was amazing.

"Go on, Usopp," Nami teased when he hesitated to follow his new crush's lead.

"Yeah, yeah," He snickered, "Don't nag me." After his jest, he climbed inside, and sat next to Venus, before he had to squeeze into her, so Chopper could fit by the window. She smiled up at him, as she held her shopping bags just above her feet.

Once everyone was inside, Franky started driving around the town, to drop them off at their respective homes. Nami was first; outside of her house was a tan-skinned young woman with short, light blue hair, standing by the front door to greet her. Chopper was next, with his adoptive mother, school nurse Kureha, waiting on him. When Sanji was about to leave, his attempt at a chivalrous farewell to Venus was interrupted by Zoro and Usopp, to her relief. "Thanks guys," She giggled.

Her heart sunk a little when Usopp unbuckled himself; she wasn't quite ready to depart just yet. "I-I'll see you in school," She stammered, so he stopped outside the bus.

"And I'll see you," He gave her a kind smile, before walking to his house, and entering.

Venus smiled dreamily, as she watched him leave. "Alright twins, should be you next," Franky announced, after he started driving again.

"'Kay," She nodded.

"You have fun today, kid?" He asked her.

"Absolutely," She replied, "I can't wait to hang out with you guys again. I like you all."

"Especially Usopp, right?"

She rolled her eyes with a smirk through his chuckles. "Yeah, I walked into that one." Before long, Franky stopped outside the familiar house. "Thanks for driving us," She almost stumbled out on the sidewalk, though stayed on her feet, with Zoro following more smoothly.

"No prob! See you guys tomorrow!"

"You too, Frank," Zoro called out, before heading to the door with her up ahead.

-

Later that evening, the day's events were brought up over an onigiri dinner. "Venus, did you have fun with Zoro's friends today?" Tera asked.

"I definitely did," She nodded after a bite, "They want me to hang out with them again."

"She fit right in," Zoro added.

"I'm glad to hear that," Arashi remarked.

"And Venus has more than a little crush now, on one of them," Zoro smirked, snickering at her blushing cheeks.

"Oh really?" Arashi said in surprise. "Which one?"

"U-Usopp," She shyly mumbled behind her water glass, before shaking it off, "And I heard that he likes me back. Or he could."

"That's great, dear, but please be careful," Tera gently warned, "We don't want you getting hurt again."

"I understand," Venus nodded, before sighing sadly, "I don't want to go through that again."

~

-Last Year-

"I got asked to the prom!" Venus announced the second she entered the house after school.

Zoro lowered his shintai, and exited his room in curiosity. "By who?"

"His name's Spandam! He said that he likes me, and wants to be my prom date! Of course, I said yes!"

"That's great, honey!" Tera beamed. "I'm sure you'll have a great time!"

Zoro squinted his eyes over the excitement, staying quiet. He couldn't help but feel suspicious; Spandam didn't exactly have the best reputation in the school. He decided to keep it to himself, in fear of ruining his sister's joy. Maybe it could work out...

If only he knew how wrong that preposition was.

After changing to look their best, the two headed for the school, with their parents driving. "Have fun, you two!" Tera called out when they exited the car.

"We will," Zoro called back, and they entered the building. He followed Venus along the decorated halls, until they reached the gymnasium, where the event was currently kicking off. "Want to wait for him here?"

"Yeah," She nodded, "I'll be alright on my own."

That didn't help his suspicions at all. "If you say so. I'll be with my friends."

"'Kay, have fun."

"You too." With that, he wandered off, and miraculously located his newfound friends by the punch bowl, where she happened to be out of their sights.

"Surprised you found us that fast, Moss-head," Sanji smirked.

"Shut up, moron," Zoro dismissed the annoying blond; he was more focused on keeping his ears open, for any sounds of distress from Venus.

Meanwhile, she lingered at the entrance, blissfully unaware of the devious plot she would soon be apart of, front and center. Behind her back hid her so-called "date", looking down at her with evil intentions, while gripping a large pot. Time to put the plan into action...

Venus stood with a small smile, looking for a familiar head of lavender hair, when... it happened. She gasped sharply with a shriek at a disgusting-smelling, off-white, curdled substance raining down on her from the ceiling, leaving her drenched. She panted heavily, tears welling up, and not just from the odor, as certain students broke out into laughter. The substance slid down her hair, arms, and legs, and stained her black dress nearly beyond recognition.

Zoro turned sharply at the commotion. "What happened?" Usopp went to look, but his vision was blocked by some large athletes around all of them. Even Brook and Franky couldn't see.

"I don't know," Zoro sneered behind his back. Though he had a feeling that he did know.

Spandam leaped over in front of her with great clumsiness, but quickly regained his composure, towering over her, as he laughed mockingly. "This is what you get, little freak! You really thought anyone would want to be your date anywhere, much less the prom?! Ha! Have fun stinking up the place!" With that, he joined the other bullies in enjoying her misery.

"That's an improvement!" A portly boy named Hordy Jones guffawed.

Zoro pushed past the burly athletes, and just barely saw Venus running out of the room with her face hidden by her hands. "Guys, I gotta go, now."

"But you just got here-"

"I gotta go!" He snapped, interrupting Luffy, before making a mad dash after her. "Venus!" 'What did that bastard do to her?!' He thought furiously. 'I'll kill him!' He saw her disappear into the girls' room, and quickly followed. "Venus?" He held his nose at the terrible smell, as she hid in the handicap stall, leaving it unlocked. The hell was that? She never had it before; unless... Spandam. "V?" He peeked in, and she was sitting on the toilet, sobbing into her hands. "You okay?" He knew it was a stupid question, but he didn't know what else to say. Her only response was a head shake, which sent some gross lumps sliding from her hair, and splattering on the floor. "What did that bastard do?"

He waited patiently for her to calm herself enough to answer. "He... d-dumped some... sour milk on me."

That certainly explained the smell. Her fancy dress had to have been permanently ruined; nothing would get the stains, or odor out of it. "Go rinse yourself off in the girls' locker room. And throw out your dress; here's my jacket." He stripped it off, so he was in his matching black pants, and navy blue button-up printed with whirlpools.

"O-okay, thanks." She took it when he handed it over, and ran off.

In the boys' locker room, Zoro scrubbed off his sister's heeled shoes for her, boiling with rage. Rosward was going to hear from him; Spandam wasn't his offspring, so he would hopefully be punished for this. While cleaning, he called Arashi; he and Tera had to have been home by now, but they needed to come back. No way were they staying at the prom; not after what had just happened. "Dad, you and Mom need to get back here, now."

"Why, what happened?" Arashi sounded worried.

"I'll explain later. Just get here as soon as you can; we're not staying."

"Okay son, we're on our way." With that, he hung up.

In the girls' shower, tears fell down Venus' face. She should've known it was a set-up; who would want to associate with her? No one, that's who. She was just going to die alone. After finishing up, and putting on her undergarments, she pulled on, and buttoned up her brother's jacket, which almost reached her knees, and shoved her pungent dress in the garbage bin. She never wanted to see it again.

Zoro came back less than a minute later, with her now clean shoes on hand. "You better now?"

"I guess," She almost whispered, "T-thanks."

"I called Dad. He and Mom are on our way here." He set her blocky kitten heels on the floor.

"'Kay, good. I just want to go home." After stepping into her shoes, she took his hand, and walked the halls with him. His heart broke at her sniffles, and shuddering breath; she didn't want to cry at risk of other students hearing, and making her feel worse.

After a minute of waiting outside, a familiar car pulled up, and parked close by. Arashi and Tera jumped out immediately, concerned at their daughter wearing their son's jacket instead of her dress, with her hair out of its former braid crown. "Venus?" The second Arashi knelt in front of her, she collapsed into him, and sobbed in his shoulder. "Oh, baby." He held her close, and stroked her damp hair, as Tera rubbed her back. "What's that smell?"

"Sour milk," Zoro replied, his hands clenched his fists, "That bastard dumped it on her."

Tera gasped in shock. "He what?!"

"She had to rinse off in the locker room, and throw her dress away."

"Come on, let's go home, so you can have a proper shower." After Arashi kissed Venus' forehead, they all piled into the car, and took off. Venus sobbed in Zoro's neck and shoulder during the whole drive.

Once they were inside the house, she made a beeline for the bathroom. "I'm never dating anyone again!" She cried while running up the stairs, and grabbing her bat-print bathrobe.

The moment she disappeared into the bathroom, and the shower turned on, Zoro let his rage out. "I knew it, I freakin' knew it!" He dropped to his knees, and his fists pounded the coffee table. "I knew Spandam was bad news! I didn't want to say anything, because she was so excited, but now I know I should have!" His forehead dropped down between his hands. "Now she's humiliated, all because I-!"

"Zoro, it wasn't your fault!" Arashi cut him off. "It was that brat who caused this, not you."

"Yeah, please don't blame yourself, honey," Tera added, "Venus doesn't, I know it."

"Tell Rosward on Monday," Arashi suggested, "Something has to be done about this."

"Gladly." After several minutes, Venus emerged from the bathroom, now smelling like her lemon shampoo/conditioner; she went straight to her room, and shut the door without a word. "I'm gonna-"

"I think she should be alone for a while," Tera stopped him.

"Okay," He nodded after some hesitation, and walked into his own room. He shut the door, grabbed his shintai, and turned to the dummy he always practiced on. Out of nowhere, he imagined Spandam's smug face on the head, laughing tauntingly; seething with rage, he tore into the dummy with loud grunts and shouting battle cries, almost totaling it in seconds. How could he just humiliate his sister?! And with no shame?! She never did anything to deserve it! She was one of the sweetest, most harmless girls in the whole school! "YOU FILTHY BASTARD!" He screamed with fury over her sobs close by. Along with sword slashes, punches and kicks were added in. "HOW DARE YOU HURT MY SISTER!" Venus sat curled up in the small tent, her face buried in her knees, as her shoulders shook.

Minutes later, the dummy was destroyed, now in shambles scattered about. Zoro panted heavily, tears streaming down his cheeks; he put his shintai away before any other damage was done, and sat on his bed to calm down, with his head in his hands. He wanted to check on her, but he couldn't if he was shaking like this.

Once he was chilled out enough, he walked to her room, surprised to notice the door slightly open, and peeked inside. Venus was still sitting in the tent, but was now silent. "Sis?" He cautiously entered the room, and knelt in front of her. "You doing okay?"

She sniffled, and raised her head up. Her cheeks were blotchy, and stained from the tears, and her eye was red. "I guess."

He pulled her into a hug, which she accepted immediately, her head resting on his chest. "I had a feeling there was something... not right regarding Spandam." He sighed deeply. "I didn't say anything, because you were so excited about having a prom date."

"It's not your fault."

"I know, but I still-"

"You couldn't have seen it coming," She raised her head to look at him, "Neither of us did. It's all on him, not you."

Zoro didn't know how to respond, as he simply kept her close. He felt responsible, no matter what, although it couldn't be fixed. It happened, and it was over. But Spandam was going down for this; he would make sure of it.

After a few minutes, she had fallen asleep from emotional exhaustion, still clutching his shirt. He picked her up from the floor, and laid her down in her bed with one of her many blankets; after loosening her grip, and adding a stuffie under her one arm draped over her chest, he left her be.

~

Venus sighed heavily at the memories, before shaking it off. "I'll be careful, I promise."

"Good," Tera nodded.

Later that night, now in her pajamas, Venus laid on her bed, lost in her thoughts. She surely didn't want a repeat of last year, but... Usopp was so different from Spandam. He was nothing like that jerk; he was so sweet, and a lot of fun to be around. Heck, he treated her to a slice of cake after they knew each other for only a few hours! And he was a lot cuter too. No way would he ever mistreat her... right?

No, right. He wouldn't. He'd never.

She soon drifted off to sleep, with her new crush on her mind.

-

Elsewhere, while laying in his own bed, Usopp was thinking hard as well. About Venus, in particular; she was the sweetest, cutest, and most lovely girl he had ever known.

Over dinner, he recalled the day's events to his mother, Banchina, while swooning over the short Goth. She was over the moon at her son having such strong feelings for someone, and her heart broke at hearing how she was bullied in school.

He smiled, as he recollected the day's events; he knew buying Venus a little treat was a good idea. She was so happy, and seemed to enjoy it. He wanted to give her heart a break; show her she deserved all the love in the world, by giving it to her.

He remembered their private chat in the bakery; he really wanted to hear her practice her violin for him one day, hanging out one-on-one. He was eager to learn more about her. And meanwhile, she felt the same about him.

Neither could wait to see each other again at school tomorrow.