#ethnic kimonos

[virblatt]

Slow Fashion by virblatt

At virblatt you will find alternative fashion and hippie clothes for your individual boho style and hippie style outfit. We carry a diverse range of harem pants, aladdin pants, hippie ponchos, hemp shoes and ethnic kimonos. Become part of our project and visit our hippie store now.

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Bei virblatt findest du alternative Mode und Hippie Kleidung für dein individuelles Boho Style und Hippie Style Outfit. Wir führen ein vielseitiges Sortiment an Haremshosen, Aladinhosen, Hippie Ponchos, Hanfschuhen und Ethno Kimonos. Werde Teil unseres Projekts und besuche unseren Hippie Shop jetzt.

[purplemninja]

(Little Nightmares x Undertale) When Six consumes enough souls (all 3 paths)

Genocide:

Neutral:

Pacifist:

I like it when Six is put in a position of great (and not necessarily evil) power, so I made this and the Hollow Knight crossover I made previously to put her in positions of great power.

Plus every time I see fan art of Six wearing a kimono she always looks adorable in them, so I designed her god of hyper death (partial power) outfit to be a kimono. Also I replaced the heart locket that Asriel wears with the crescent moon locket that Six found in my ‘Lost girl’ fanfic and changed the symbols on the shield thing to LN stuff. Plus I designed her to be an adult in the partial power phase.

Hope you guys like it!

[home-and-living]

Top 6 Trending Boho-Chic Kimonos for Spring/Summer 2024!

Indulge in Boho-Chic fashion with our curated selection of kimonos for Spring/Summer 2024! From Tropical Prints to Vibrant Florals, Embroidered Lace, Crochet Cardigans, Ethnic Prints, and Fringe details, these kimonos offer a fusion of style and comfort, perfect for your seasonal wardrobe.

Tropical Print Kimono: Embrace summertime vibes with a tropical print kimono featuring vibrant colors and exotic motifs. Perfect for adding a pop of color to your wardrobe!

Elevate your spring break style with a Tropical Print Kimono, a versatile piece that exudes effortless chic. Whether lounging by the pool or exploring beachside towns, this kimono adds a touch of exotic flair to any outfit. Its vibrant colors and botanical motifs capture the essence of tropical paradise, making it perfect for sunny getaways. Pair it with a swimsuit for a laid-back beach look or layer it over a dress for a bohemian-inspired ensemble. Embrace the spirit of adventure with this trendy kimono, a staple for every spring break wardrobe.

Vibrant Floral Kimono: Embrace the season with a colorful floral kimono. Look for bold prints, lightweight fabrics, and flowing silhouettes. Pair it with denim shorts and a tank top for a carefree vibe!

Step into Spring Break 2024 with flair wearing the Vibrant Floral Kimono, a captivating fusion of style and comfort. Crafted with a lively floral print, this kimono embodies the essence of the season, adding a burst of color to any outfit. Its lightweight fabric and breezy design make it ideal for beachside adventures or poolside lounging. Elevate your vacation look effortlessly by layering this kimono over a swimsuit or pairing it with denim shorts and a tank top. Embrace the vibrancy of spring with this must-have piece

Embroidered Lace Kimono: Lace details add a romantic touch to any outfit. Opt for an embroidered lace kimono in soft pastels or earthy tones. Layer it over a sundress or a swimsuit for beachy boho flair!

Step into Spring Break 2024 with grace and sophistication wearing the Embroidered Lace Kimono. This exquisite piece effortlessly combines elegance with comfort, featuring delicate lace detailing and intricate embroidery. Whether lounging by the pool or strolling along the beach, this kimono adds a touch of bohemian charm to any outfit. Its lightweight and airy design make it perfect for warm weather, while the timeless lace adds a romantic flair. Embrace effortless chic with this versatile kimono, a must-have for your Spring Break wardrobe. Elevate your ensemble with the Embroidered Lace Kimono.

Ethnic Print Kimono: Explore kimonos with ethnic-inspired prints, such as tribal motifs or geometric patterns. These kimonos add a global flair to your wardrobe. Pair them with flared jeans or a simple white dress for a well-travelled aesthetic!

Infuse your Spring Break 2024 wardrobe with cultural flair by donning an Ethnic Print Kimono. These vibrant garments blend traditional motifs with modern style, offering a unique and expressive fashion statement. Perfect for layering over your favorite spring dresses, these kimonos add a bohemian touch to any outfit. Whether adorned with intricate patterns or bold tribal designs, Ethnic Print Kimonos exude confidence and individuality. Elevate your beachside look or poolside attire with these versatile pieces that celebrate diversity and heritage. Embrace the global spirit of fashion with an Ethnic Print Kimono.

Crochet Kimono Cardigan: Crochet textures exude bohemian charm. A long crochet kimono cardigan is perfect for cooler evenings. Style it with a tank top, wide-leg pants, and chunky sandals for a boho-chic ensemble!

Step into Spring Break 2024 with elegance and flair by adorning yourself with a Crochet Kimono Cardigan. This versatile piece effortlessly complements your favorite spring dresses, adding a touch of bohemian charm to your ensemble. Crafted with intricate crochet patterns, these cardigans offer lightweight comfort and stylish sophistication. Whether lounging by the pool or exploring beachside destinations, the Crochet Kimono Cardigan is the perfect layering piece for sunny days and breezy evenings. Embrace the season’s trends and enhance your wardrobe with this timeless and fashionable accessory.

Fringe Kimono: Fringe is a hot trend this season, adding a touch of whimsy to your outfit!

Embrace the bohemian vibes of Spring Break 2024 with a Fringe Kimono, the ultimate fashion statement for sunny days and breezy nights. This stylish piece adds flair to your spring dresses, combining comfort with trendiness effortlessly. Crafted with flowing fabrics and adorned with playful fringe details, the Fringe Kimono exudes a carefree elegance perfect for beachside escapades or poolside lounging. Elevate your vacation wardrobe and channel your inner free spirit with this versatile and chic accessory. Embrace the season’s hottest trend and make a fashion statement wherever you go.

Click here for more Fashions.. !!

[ifanotherworldexists]

[kon-konk]

Is it too early to begin planning my Halloween outfit for this year? No? Good.

I'm torn between Link and a kitsune-themed outfit (this one would involve a lot of sewing because the tentative plan would be kimono and hakama, but it would give me a good excuse to do even more research and use my book titled Sewing Your Own Japanese Clothes, which has patterns and methods of construction and ways to "make it modern" (it was published in 1988 by Kodansha International, so idk how modern those ideas are), as well as seek out more books about sewing).

Link is the "easy" one, where I'd only really have to sew a tunic and hat. Not much research to be done there since I grew up on LoZ. Gives me an excuse to run around with a wooden sword and yell "HYAH!" Also would give me the the good gender feels.

The kitsune one would give me a chance to learn more about wearing kimono (from what I've read and watched, putting one on properly takes some learning time), as well as teach others about kimono and kitsune and Japanese folklore and culture, but the big downside is that I'm not sure Halloween would be an "appropriate" time to wear that without someone deeming it cultural appropriation, no matter the amount of research and respect I put into it.

[maximiliano-dream]

Day 11 of #inktober2022 is #eagle Title: A Bingle the Eagle Well am little stressed out on this piece today to the point I feel like I’ve been taking out on some people I respected. I’m highly disappointed with myself. The worst part I sometimes feel emotionless I guess as a way to cope to feeling stress. I telling you guys this because I want to be to aware of my actions. Either way hope you guys enjoy. But please take this way to be careful when planning artwork to media. #inktober #ink #2022 #drawlloween #drawtober #drawtober2022 #illustration #illustrator #art #artistsoninstagram #artistsupport #inkart #inkartist #inkaddict #bird #kimono #ethnic #hoarder #serious #awareness #stress #surrealism https://www.instagram.com/p/CjmLivmt-Y_/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[indiankhajaana]

[esamastation]

Part thirty-one of Shizuroth, aka, the SOLDIER General's Self Saving Shizun.

Ao3 link.

Previous parts: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-one, twenty-two, twenty-three, twenty-four, twenty-five, twenty-six, twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirty

-

They've landed in Wutai after a frankly miserable plane ride in a windowless, seat-less troop carrier - which, why even call it a troop carrier when it's clearly not designed to be carrying people? The thing is filled with boxes and stuff, there was barely enough room to move!

Guess that's what happens with last minute takeoffs - you get what you get.

The first few minutes onboard were fine and kinda novel - being on a plane at all was kind of a mind trip, because, heh, plane, Airplane Shooting Towards the Sky, eat your heart out! But then it became just hours upon hours of boredom in a rattling tube of metal. Sword flying is clearly a superior mode of transport.

"We will have your things delivered to wherever you're going to be staying," Reno says, waving them off the plane, hiis attention fixed on one of the bigger boxes. "Rude, come give me a hand with this…"

"We should -" Rude starts to say, looking at the SOLDIERs.

"Yeah, yeah, now come give me a hand with this."

Angeal gives them an awkward, slightly relieved smile and then claps Sephiroth on the shoulder. "We better get out of the way," he says, and together they exit the plane.

Sephiroth had been bracing himself for a warfront, Angeal had even told him what to expect, but he… didn't actually know what that entailed.

Shinra troops had taken over a small town at the foot of Tamblin Mountain sometime in the past and are now using it as their forward base. That's where they land - in a dirt runway cut into the forest, just by the town. And it's…

It reminds him of old movies, the mixture of vaguely mixed Asian style buildings, with these modern canvas tents pitched in between them and on the roads. There are trucks that totally aren't jeeps that have worn grooves into soft  streets, unprepared for such traffic, making everything messy and muddy. They've erected fences all over the place, sectioning parts off, and there are  floodlights everywhere. There's also  robots patrolling the place. 

In the distance, on the rolling hills somewhere to the west, there are rice paddies and behind them mountains. All around them there's a lush wall of green that looks almost like a rainforest. It actually might be rainforest! It would fit the allegory!

The mental, ethnic vertigo is so strong for a moment that Sephiroth doesn't know which way to turn to look. He doesn't know what to think. Mostly he just feels kinda… unnerved.

Angeal returns to his side before he even realises he'd gone somewhere. "I talked to the Colonel. Come on," Angeal says, clapping him on the shoulder. "They've set up a place for us. We'll… debrief there."

"... Hn," Sephiroth answers, and follows him.

There's a lot of Shinra troops milling about, infantry mostly, but some SOLDIER Seconds and Thirds too. They all stop to stare. Some of them look excited, but most just look tired and dirty and worn.

Sephiroth wonders if the Colonel is in charge of them. Actually, it might be that they're now in charge of everyone here! They're SOLDIERs First Class. Isn't that the highest rank? He can't remember if Sephiroth being a General was fanon or canon, but hasn't he been involved with the war since the beginning?

Would he have to give orders now, orders to march, to fight… to kill?

Angeal shows him to a house that was clearly someone's home before Shinra took the place over. It's a single room with tatami floors and rice paper walls, and the military bunks clash with the aesthetic horribly. Their pillows are clearly seat cushions.

There's a fancy looking kimono stand that's being used to hang bags and ammo satchels.

"What happened to the people who lived here?" Sephiroth can't help but ask, staring at the stand and wondering where the kimono had gone.

"They abandoned the town ahead of the troops," Angeal says.

Sephiroth looks at him and then at the room. Did they really, or is that a nicer thought than they were all executed? "... Right," he says and picks up the seat cushions from the bunk, piling them up in the corner - wondering if there was a table here, and what happened to it.

"Are you alright?" Angeal asks.

Probably not! "What's our mission here?" Sephiroth asks, picking up bags and satchels from the stand and carrying them outside.

"... We have a day to acclimate. After that, there's a number of things that need to be accomplished," Angeal says, subdued, and takes out his phone. "We can start slow - there's no major engagements being planned just now, no one will mind."

"Mn, and what does starting slow mean?" Sephiroth asks, as he picks up stuff around the hut and gets rid of it.

"Well, there's a number of monster extermination requests around here - Wutai wildlife is high-level, and it's rumoured that they're being intentionally bred by Wutai people. They've been attacking patrols."

Sephiroth gets rid of most of the random crap in the hut and then considers the bunk beds. They're ugly and probably unpleasant, but… they have to sleep somewhere. 

It takes just one swing of Masamune to improve the situation immensely.

"Um," Angeal says as Sephiroth finishes separating the beds and moves one of them to the other side of the hut. "... Why?"

"I am not sleeping in a bunk bed," Sephiroth says simply and looks around. "... Do you think they have folding screens around here?"

 Angeal arches his brows. "I don't know for sure. I suppose we could ask around? I think there's a storage house where they've put the collected, um," he clears his throat. "Things that will be sent to Midgar eventually. Maybe we can requisition some of it."

Things to be sent to Midgar…  that's nice. That's a nice way to say the spoils of war, huh. 

Sephiroth looks away. It's the way of war, he knows that, nothing unusual about it. It happened in PIDW too - cut out all the smut and stupidity, and all Binghe did was plunder and loot and pillage. When he wasn't being handed tributes, anyway. It's just par for the course! Right? Right…

"You…" Angeal starts and then sighs and puts the phone away. "How about I'll go get a screen for you, if there's any available. Do you want anything else?" He sounds very indulgent and understanding.

"Two screens. And a table," Sephiroth says without facing him, feeling like a sullen little kid being placated. "... Thank you. Can you ask someone to get rid of the - stuff outside?"

"I'll take care of it," Angeal promises. "You just… take a moment to make yourself comfortable, okay? There's no rush."

Aka, pull yourself together, man, you're looking really pitiful right now. Thanks, Angeal-bro.

Sephiroth's waits until Angeal is gone before sinking down to sit on one of the beds, putting his head in his hands.

Though they'd not seen much from the plane, what with it not having windows and all, he can see it in his mind's eye now. Burned villages smoking in the jungle, scorched fields, muddy paddies ruined. He'd never cared much for any kind of war stuff, but he'd seen his share of first person shooters and letsplays.

It all feels very real all of a sudden.

And he's supposed to be the Big Bad here! The Demon of Wutai! Who knows how many people he's already killed in this war! And sure, it is a war, and that's what happens, and yeah, he has killed before as Shen Qingqiu, but -!

Going to war on behalf of the America-allegory of the situation? The invader, the hostile occupier, the - the evil planet-sucking dystopian megacorporation?!

Dragging his hands down his face, Sephiroth sighs and looks up.

There are calligraphy scrolls hung up on each side of the door. One reads Integrity and the other Honour. Sephiroth stares at them miserably for a long moment.

Yeah.

He's so going to end up defecting here, isn't he? Four days, four days in this world, and he's doing to fuck up the whole plot, right here and now. It must be some kind of record! But where the fuck will be even defect to? The Demon of Wutai, hello?! The locals probably want his head on a spike!

"I am so fucked," he mutters wretchedly and hangs his head.

[ptiza-sinitza]

SAVAGE LOOKBOOK

Hello. I'm not tired of Western style yet, because it could be so different! This time looks turn more ethnic and bohemian. I keep in mind Dior Cruise Collection. And my thoughts and dreams are alredy in Autumn with this spicy and teal pallet.

1. Hair by @clumsyalienn, hat by @rimings, necklace by @serenity-cc, jacket by Marigold, t-shirt acc by @nell-le, skirt by @charonlee, Dior Saddle bag by @idsims, boots by _zy, watch by @s-club-tbr, earrings by @miniminisims 2. hair by @simstrouble, hat by brazilianforeversim, cape by @clumsyalienn, skirt by hagsims, corset acc by @oydis, boots by @kamiiri, belt by @savage-sims, necklace by @missrubybird, earrings by @darknighttsims, rings by NightingaleSims, wheat stroke by @the-daydream-archives 3. hat by @serenity-cc, Bustier by @backtrack-cc, crochet top acc by @serenity-cc, skirt by @coloresurbanos, Necklace by @simpliciaty-cc, earrings by @pixelette-cc, bracelet R by @joliebean, bracelet L by Marigold, sandals by @miro-sims, pedicure by @magic-bot 4. kimono acc by @happylifesims, hat by toksic, pants by @serenity-cc, top by @viivarium, necklace by @bradfordsims, bracelet R, bracelet L by @bradfordsims, boots by @serenity-cc

Big thanks and love to all CC creators!

[ataraxixx]

one of these days i could just make a masterpost addressing all of ninjagos influences for clothing bc i feel like ppl point out the obvious like "thats not a kimono thats a qipao!!" or yk but like. nyas s1 outfit is closer to an ao dai than a qipao tbh😭like they prolly looked at both designing her but its smth i think abt that the first outfit we see nya in is very vietnamese and its not an ethnic hc i see very often for her despite this (bc i dont think ppl realize?

[blissfullyapillow]

A beauty that transcends the Sakura Blooms

A beauty that transcends the Sakura Blooms

Genshin Impact

Kamisato Ayato x female reader

wc: 10,128~

Notes: fluff with spice because that’s my special formula (lmao), self indulgent (at this point what isn’t?), black/mixed reader, reader is mentioned to have small hands, reader is eluded to be shorter than Ayato, I wrote this inspired by a tiktok I saw talking about how black readers are typically portrayed in fanfics lol, self love is an avenue to personal growth and new opportunities <3 

Back to Main Masterlist

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

Living a peaceful life as a black individual in Teyvat is easier said than done. Being black is not the only part of my ethnicity, but my skin color and black identity is the first and most essential aspect of myself that others see first. 

I’ve traveled to many nations, and the piercing stares have become the norm for me. It makes blending in difficult, but over time I’ve come into my own and developed my self esteem, so I no longer care for the curious glances in my direction. 

Although, having self confidence doesn’t make the insensitive questions any easier to hear. People have asked me, “Why is your skin color brown?” or “Why is your hair like that?” I’ve even heard people make passing comments like, “I’m surprised her hair isn’t braided” and “Oh my, her skin is so exotic, I want to touch her hair.” One of the most interesting comments I’ve received was, “Wow, your lips are so full. I’ve never kissed a woman with full lips before. How about you be my first?” 

…

I think that one speaks for itself. 

I shake my head as I focus my attention on the task at hand. Currently, I’m in Inazuma browsing through the various dyes at Ogura Textiles & Kimonos. I tend to buy dyes, kimonos, and high end silks from Ogura Mio, the shop owner. 

The first time I stopped by to find materials for my next project, I overheard her talking about “new” dyes with a blonde traveler and floaty.. thing. 

After the interesting duo left I asked her if I could try one of her “new” dyes, but she refused. I convinced her by agreeing to trade silk flowers from Liyue, since at that time the sakoku decree was still in effect which put a strain on outsourcing. She agreed to this trade deal, and ever since then I’ve been a regular with my usual haul of silk flowers. 

“Oh, Name! You’re back! I have a new dye to show you and- oh Name, how many times do I have to tell you I don’t need you to bring me silk flowers anymore?” Ogura scolds me like an old friend, but she gratefully takes the flowers from my small hands. In return, she completes our usual exchange with a new batch of her experimental dyes. 

I spot a beautiful hue of blue in the pile, and I’m sure my face reflects my obvious excitement. “Do you need any silks? You’re my only customer who gets a special discount, so make sure to put it to use!” I eagerly eye the new silks Ogura has in stock, and I pick out a natural white shade of silk. I make sure to get a feel for the silk before purchasing it, and I thank Ogura for her dyes and her business. 

“No worries Name, we’re friends, you know. Now, let me know how the dye turns out so I can…” Ogura’s eyes widen like saucers, and her voice comically dies mid sentence. I snort at her expression and open my mouth to tease her, but before the words can escape my lips a voice from behind interrupts me.

“My, it certainly seems business is booming for you.” Wait a minute.

My eyes widen as I make eye contact with Ogura. She raises her eyebrows in shock before she fixes her expression to be less comical. As she addresses the man behind me I feel my heart skip more than a few beats.

There’s no way she’s talking to the person I think it is, right?

I hold my breath before I slowly turn my body to glance at the man. His light blue hair reflects the beaming sun above us as his eyes roam over the various silks and dyes offered by Ogura. I almost can’t believe my luck. The esteemed Kamisato Ayato, or Lord as I should say, is here in the flesh. My cheeks flush as I gratefully take in his natural beauty.

Ayato turns to look at the kimonos, and his purple eyes temporarily meet mine. My cheeks instantly heat up as I freeze in place. I notice the soft chuckle he lets out as he sends a wink in my direction before his eyes return to their previous target. 

Oh, my heart.

I silently will myself to calm down and stop being so awkward when Ayato speaks up. “Would it be alright if I request a custom order?” Ayato’s question shocks not only the shop owner but me as well. 

Ogura, you’re so lucky!

Ogura looks a bit conflicted as she ponders her answer. “I’d love to, but I already have a lot of custom orders for the upcoming festival. I can do a custom order for you, but it may take a bit longer than you’d like Lord Kamisato.” Ogura apologetically bows, but Ayato’s small smile remains on his pretty lips. “It’s alright, no worries.” His simple response dictates the end of the conversation. 

Ogura looks remorseful as I watch her mind work a mile a minute. Her eyes scan the faces of people out and about before they land on me, and her eyes light up.

Oh no. No.

My palms sweat as I aggressively shake my head ‘no’ at her, but she dismisses my concerns. “Lord Kamisato, if you’re interested I know a friend who can fulfill your custom order with the finest of silks. Actually, she just bought silks that I’m sure will suit your tastes.” My feet are rooted to the spot as Ayato takes great interest in her words. “Oh? I’d be delighted to meet them.” With that, I turn on my heel in an attempt to make a break for it.

Ogura knows me all too well and is one step ahead, as I feel her arm link with mine as she all but drags me back to her shop, right in front of Kamisato Ayato- or well, Lord Ayato- no wait, Lord Kamisato. My eyes nervously trail over his elegant clothes until they meet his eyes. My observations were brief, but his clothing seems like a fusion of traditional Inazuma clothing and a suit, an item of clothing I’ve seen on my travels to other nations. 

Ayato smiles gratefully in my direction, and he moves a bit closer to study the silk and dye in my arms. I feel flustered with his body so close to mine. I try to calm my rapid, pounding heart with subtle deep breaths. “Ah, I see. Yes, this silk will do, and the dyes look splendid. Of course, this is all only if you are willing to accept my commission…” Ayato looks at a loss for words as his eyes suddenly look into mine, silently asking for my name, and I hope my nerves aren’t as obvious as they feel. I open my mouth to offer my name, but my nerves hinder my ability to respond.

“Name!” Ogura offers my name for me, and Ayato’s eyes shine with a mischievous glint. 

Hmm, what is this man planning?

“Ah, I see. Well Name, it would be my honor if you accept my custom commission.” Ayato ceremoniously bows in front of me, and some onlookers look at us in awe. I feel embarrassed and way more elated than I should. 

It takes me a moment to respond, but once I do I nod my head in compliance. He curiously tilts his head, no doubt wanting verbal confirmation, and I swear to the Archons if this isn’t the one of the most adorable things I’ve ever seen I’ll personally confiscate my vision. 

“Yes! The honor would be mind, Lord Aya- Lord Kamisato!” I embarrassingly correct myself quickly, and bow my head so he can’t see my flushed cheeks. It’s silent for a moment, and I don’t dare raise my head. Ayato’s sweet laughter cuts through the awkward atmosphere, and Ogura isn’t far behind as her own laughter reaches my ears. 

I slowly raise my head and admire the beautiful expression of joy on Ayato’s pretty features. His melodious laughter gradually calms before his eyes gleam in amusement. “Name, you’re an interesting individual. Thank you for accepting my commission. I will reward you with a generous amount Mora once the commission is complete.” In an unexpected action, Ayato moves closer to me and extends one of his partially gloved hands in my direction.

I watch with intense rapture as Ayato gently holds my free hand in his. Ayato gently leans down to press a chaste kiss against the back of my hand, and Archons know it’s taking every fiber of my being not to show how flustered his actions are making me feel. 

My eyes catch Ogura’s wide ones, and although her eyes express shock she’s quick to change her tune and give me two cheeky thumbs up. 

I giggle at that. 

Ayato raises his head to look into my eyes and I admire the resolve that I see swirl within his mesmerizing orbs.��

“Thank you, Name. If you don’t mind, would you accompany me to the Kamisato Estate? Time is of the essence, after all.” Ayato’s words ooze refined elegance and charm, and I find myself agreeing with his words instead of denying his request like I want to.

It’s not like I don’t want to go to the Kamisato Estate, but this is all so sudden! THE Kamisato Ayato is in front of me right now, smiling and actually talking to me, and he even kissed my hand!

In all honesty, I expected him to dismiss me once his eyes roamed my figure. I thought he would turn his head away in disgust as he inevitably looked elsewhere for a commission from someone with a lighter skin tone. 

“Wonderful. If you’ll excuse us, Miss Ogura. Thank you for your business and for the delightful referral.” After a swift exchange of bows between Ayato and Ogura, Ayato leads me to the infamous Kamisato Estate. 

As I pass Ogura I mouth my thanks. I also use the opportunity to express my shock with what I’m sure is an incredulous look on my face.

She simply sends a wink in my direction with a silent “good luck” in reply.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

The trip to the Kamisato Estate is a leisurely one, and this is reflected in the hues of orange and purple displayed with the setting sun. The scenery around us is bathed in a beautiful golden glow, and I admire the golden rays' majestic glow on my skin.

I have to admit, my arms are getting a bit tired from holding all of my materials. Despite this, I refuse to voice my concerns to the Lord mere inches ahead of me. “Name, are your arms tired? I can hold your silks and dyes for you.” My head shoots up to look at Ayato in pure disbelief. 

Ayato chuckles at my expression as I scramble for a reply. “...Can you read minds?” I cautiously pose my question. Ayato blinks owlishly at me for a moment before his melodic laughter graces my ears yet again.

He wordlessly removes the materials from my tired hands, making sure to take it slow in case I rather keep my things to myself. I let him remove the silks and dye from my arms with no resistance. “Thank you, Aya- Lord Kamisato.” I graciously voice my appreciation. Ayato hums to himself for a moment before he voices another question. “Name, what’s your first and last name?” I feel my cheeks warm and I hope he isn’t getting ready to scold me for being improper. Maybe I should start referring to him as Lord Kamisato in my mind so I stop slipping up when I talk to him.

I make sure to speak up before I’m silent for too long. “Name L/N.” I reply. I carefully watch his expression, and it morphs into one of genuine intrigue. “Ah, I see. Such a lovely name for a charming lady such as yourself. Name, if it’s alright with you, may I continue to call you Name? I happen to like how it sounds.” Ayato’s genuine compliment fills me with joy. I’m glad he seems to be accepting of my unexpected last name rather than close minded..

“Of course! I apologize for slipping up with my formalities, Lord Kamisato. It’s very rude of me.” I bashfully apologize to Ayato as I make sure to keep pace with him by his side. Ayato thoughtfully looks off in the distance, and I follow his gaze to what I’m sure is the Kamisato Estate. 

Ayato speaks up, and when I turn to look at him his intense gaze makes it hard for me to look away. “Normally that would be considered rude, but since I’ve been referring to you by your first name all this time I believe it is only right that you refer to me by mine. You may call me Lord Ayato if you wish, but Ayato is just fine.” My jaw drops as I lose my footing, and Ayato is quick to reach a hand out to steady me before I eat dirt. 

Literally.

I quickly regain my balance. Once I’ve steadied myself, I notice that Ayato skillfully maneuvered all of my materials to his other arm in order to catch me before I fell. 

I also notice that Ayato still hasn’t let go of my arm. 

I feel his eyes on me as I attempt to control my erratic breathing from my near fall. “Sorry.” I mumble. “No worries. Although, I think it’d be wise if I continue to hold onto you. We can’t have you almost falling again.” I look on curiously, wondering what he means by that, and a feeling of bliss explodes in my chest as his gloved hand slowly trails down my arm until they rest against the back of my empty hand.

His hand moves to intertwine with mine. He begins walking again, so I have no choice but to follow. I intently stare at our intertwined hands for the remaining duration of our walk.

I fail to quell the incessant flame that colors my cheeks red. I can only hope he doesn’t catch sight of my burning cheeks.

Although I’m beyond elated at this turn of events, it’s hard for me to believe Ayato doesn’t have any ulterior motives behind his actions. Ayato not only accepted a commission from someone whose skills he knows little about, but he kissed my hand and invited me to the Kamisato Estate, all on day one. On top of that, he’s allowing me to call him by first name.

What is this? A fanfic?

I let that absurd thought leave my mind as Ayato and I finally reach the Kamisato Estate. 

Hopefully I can get answers as I complete Ayato’s commission.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“Ah, milord! You’re back. Just in time for dinner- oh? Who’s this?” I look at the cheerful blonde man in front of me, and his welcoming energy helps to ease the tension in my muscles.

“Ah, Thoma. Thank you, I’ve found someone to fulfill that commission I mentioned to you earlier.” Ayato looks at me in lieu of gesturing in my direction as both of his hands are occupied. For some reason, we’re still holding hands as he has yet to let go.

Thoma, supposedly the cheerful blonde man in front of us, catches sight of our intertwined hands as his eyes glance in my direction. 

A spark of recognition flashes in his eyes, and he sends a dazzling smile in my direction. “Oh, welcome! Since you’re here, why don’t you join us for dinner? Lucky for you, I made extra today.” Thoma’s smile dispels any anxious thoughts I would have, although his recognition doesn’t escape my watchful eyes. 

“Thank you Thoma.” I smile at him, and Thoma returns my smile with a cute laugh. “Well, if you’ll excuse us.” Ayato leads me away, and I wave a temporary farewell to Thoma as I’m guided through the halls of the Kamisato Estate until Ayato leads me into an empty room. 

I gasp as I take in the beautiful interior design of the room. Ayato slowly lets go of my hand as he sets my materials down on a lengthy table in the center of the room. “I apologize for bringing you here so suddenly, but I’d appreciate it if this commission was completed sooner rather than later. If it is alright with you, my retainers can arrange a change of clothes and a bath for you. You may stay in this room for as long as you wish, but I ask that you reside here in the Estate as you work on your commission. That way, you can take all the measurements you need and make adjustments with ease as you progress.” As Ayato relays this information to me, I admire his form as he sits down on the floor below.

I follow suit and sit down across from him. His watchful eyes observe my form.“Of course, I understand. This is honestly a lot, but I’m really thankful for this opportunity so… Thank you. Although, I am curious since you have yet to tell me, and I hope you don’t mind answering.. What exactly do you want me to commission for you?” I curiously eye him, and his calculating gaze catches my interest. 

“Well, I’d like to commission a kimono from you, for myself. I hope that is acceptable.” My eyes widen in surprise, and a giddy giggle slips past my lips before I can stop it. No way! I can finally make a kimono for someone other than my small group of friends, and I’m getting paid for it! 

Wait, before all of that..

“Ayato- I mean, Lord Ayato… um, sorry. I want to ask you another question.” His eyes prompt me to continue, and so I do. “It seems as if Thoma knew something unspoken when you mentioned why I’m here, and your kindness towards me doesn’t make sense at all, considering I should be a complete stranger to you.” Ayato’s eyes glint, and he seems impressed by my astute observations.

“Well done, Name. I’m impressed. Those questions all have an answer, and in due time those answers will be revealed to you. I will return to this room to give you my measurements tomorrow, although if you’d like to begin earlier we may start after dinner.” With that, Ayato stands, but not before he gently brushes his hand against a wayward strand of my hair. 

I’m glad he turns away so he can’t see the goofy grin on my face.

I watch his graceful form leave the room, and I will my heart to slow its rapid march.

Almost immediately after he leaves I hear someone knock before they enter the room. It’s one of Ayato’s retainers, and I’m quickly whisked away for a bath and a comfortable change of clothes. Mere moments later, I find myself seated beside Ayato, Thoma, and Lady Ayaka for dinner.

I don’t even know where to begin, but my addled brain and hungry stomach can only muster enough energy to enjoy the delicious food before me, courtesy of Thoma’s skillful hands.

 

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

I approach Ayato privately after dinner and tell him to meet me in my room. His eyebrows raise and a tease smirk settles on his luscious lips. I realize my mistake, so I quickly backtrack before he can tease me about my suggestive choice of words.

Although, I wouldn’t mind being suggestive with the head of the Kamisato Clan.

Okay, I’m getting way too ahead of myself. 

With minimal teasing on Ayato’s end, I lead him to my temporary room. 

I’m elated when I return to my room to see measuring tape and all the necessary materials I need neatly organized across the center table. “Alright then Mr. Kamisato, are you ready for this?” My confidence finally presents itself as I’m now in my element, ready to get to work.

Ayato chuckles in amusement as he dutifully follows my instructions.

 

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

I have to admit, being close to Ayato like this in nothing but his undergarments is really doing things to me. I know I need to be professional right now, so although I want to admire his physique I focus my attention on acquiring the numbers I need to work on his commission.

It isn’t long before I finish, quite used to this process and Ayato was pleasantly still for me. 

I raise myself up after measuring the length of his legs, and I ask if it’s okay if I finish off by measuring his bust and waist. As I gauge his reaction, I’m blessed with the sight of his flushed cheeks. A rare sight, I’m sure.

Ayato awkwardly coughs before he nods, giving me the go ahead. I cautiously move in closer in case he wants to back out.

That time never comes, and it isn’t long before I’m finished with everything. “All right Ayato, you can get dressed again-” A muffled sound of surprise escapes me when I accidentally slip on the measuring tape whose length reaches the floor below.

I stumble back into Ayato, and I feel his firm chest against my back as his arms wrap around my frame to steady me. “You appear to be quite the klutz, Name.” I abhor the laughter I can hear in his voice, so I turn around to refute his accurate claim. “For your information, Lord Ayato, I’m sleepy and tired right now. I know you need this commission finished as soon as possible so I wanted to get your measurements tonight, but that doesn’t mean I…” My words get caught in my throat when my eyes raise to catch a glimpse of his face.

His purple eyes are burning flames as they travel across the expanse of my face, and I hate how ecstatic I feel as his eyes trail a bit lower, before returning to my face. “You perv, what are you looking at?” I mumble. Ayato hums, and I have to tear my eyes away from his intense stare. “Name, you’re the one fully clothed. If anything, you’re the perv. You were awfully close to my waist you know? You even had your hands all over my person.” I chuckle in disbelief at Ayato’s choice of words.

Ayato laughs at my befuddled expression, and he pulls me in closer. I relish the feeling of his warm skin against me as I close my eyes in content. 

I know I should pull away and conduct myself in a professional manner, but… this feels nice.

Ayato’s laughter dies down after a few moments, and a comfortable silence envelops us. I keep my eyes shut, unintentionally drifting off to sleep. “Name?” Ayato's husky voice simultaneously arouses me and makes me sleepier. “Hm?” I softly reply. 

He’s silent, and I can feel the rise and fall of his chest against my own. Soon, I really am on the verge of being lulled to sleep. I feel his body shift against me, and soon his arms are around me as his breath fans against the shell of my ear. 

“Thank you for your accommodating attitude, Name. May the Shogun bless you with dreams that reflect the beauty of the sakura blooms.” I swear he presses a kiss to my ear before he pulls away and carries me to the bed. 

Butterflies soar the open skies of my thumping heart, and in a breathless whisper his name falls from my lips.

I feel the way Ayato’s body stiffens, so I slowly open my eyes.

His purple orbs hold a softness I formerly believed they were incapable of holding, and in one swift movement he sets me down on my bed. “Rest well Name, I shall visit you in the morning.” I stare into his eyes, and almost as if we can read the other’s thoughts, we both lean towards the other.

I abruptly stop moving, surprised by my own actions. What has gotten into me? I don’t know this man, I know of him and his reputation, but not him. There’s no need to be hasty here, and in the first place I shouldn’t be thinking about my employer like this.

Ayato watches my movements with hooded eyes, and it seems he has an inkling of what my current thoughts are. He slowly leans forward to press a gentle kiss against my forehead. His hand hovers over my head, but he withdraws it before he whispers a cordial “goodnight” before he moves away. 

I shut my eyes as he dresses himself, and I hear his soft footsteps as he leaves.

It isn’t long before I drift off to sleep with more questions than answers and conflicting feelings fluttering around in my chest. 

Unbeknownst to me, Ayato was pressed up against the nearest wall outside, flushed  cheeks covered by his pretty hands. His closed eyes concealed the whirlwind of emotions that blew the soft petals of sakura blooms into the welcoming winds of his heart.

 

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

I had a surprisingly refreshing rest, and my dreams were unexpectedly sweet. Of course a certain blue haired lord was at the center of my dreams, but I think I’ll keep that tidbit to myself. 

My morning is more or less uneventful, as the same retainer from before brings me a change of clothes along with breakfast. It isn’t long before I continue working on Ayato’s kimono.

I ask the retainer if I can see Ayato whenever he is available, and the retainer dutifully leaves to deliver my message. Minutes later, Ayato knocks before entering my room.

“Oh! You’re here earlier than I expected. I won’t take much of your time. I just wanted to know what your favorite color is.” I wait for his response to reach my ears as I mull over the array of dyes I have to choose between, including the ‘new’ blue dye I acquired from Ogura. 

“You’re my favorite color.” My head shoots up and my ears pound as I take in Ayato’s fond expression that’s blatantly directed at me. He moves to sit beside me, and he carefully observes the array of dyes spread out before us. 

I heard that incorrectly, right?

It isn’t long before Ayato hands me the dye of his choice, and of course it’s the ‘new’ blue dye I picked out with Ogura. He picks a second option, an elegant deep hue of purple that graces my eyes. “Ooh, I can work with this! Thanks, Ayato. I know you’re busy so you can leave now. I’m going to get to work.” With that, I begin to work on Ayato’s Kimono.

He stays for a while and watches the process before he stands up to leave, wishing me a pleasant farwell. I finally let out the breath I was holding as my face explodes in a beautiful burst of red.

I would’ve believed I heard his earlier statement incorrectly if he hadn’t whispered the words again in my ear, flustering me all over again.

 

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

Three hours of peace pass before I hear another knock. I place my work in progress down on the table as I stand up and stretch. I voice a greeting, and lo and behold Ayato walks through the door with a stack of papers in his hands. 

As I stretch my legs I watch him walk into the room with obvious intrigue. He wordlessly makes his way over to the lengthy table I was previously working at. He sets his paperwork down on it before he joins me in stretching. I eye the way his arms stretch above his head, and the satisfied sigh that escapes those pretty lips as his stretch comes to a conclusion.

I admire him for a moment longer before his eyes flutter open, and I quickly avert my gaze in hopes of not getting caught staring. I finish my stretch before I return to the table, but not without catching Ayato's knowing smirk as I walk past him.

Ugh, whatever. 

Once I’m comfortable I continue where I left off. Ayato sits himself down beside me. It takes a moment, but Ayato takes a single sheet of paper from the large pile of papers he brought in. He sits up as he carefully reads it over, pen in hand. 

I come to the sudden realization that he brought all of his paperwork with him to visit me; He fully intends to do his paperwork beside me as I work on his kimono. 

I ignore the flip of joy my heart does as I focus my attention on completing Ayato’s commission.

I pretend I don’t notice the way Ayato subtly moves closer to me.

 

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

I allow a yawn to escape as I safely store my work in progress. Ayato only has a paper or two left to sign, and I’ve made decent headway on his kimono. I have to say I adore the contrast of the beautiful blue hue to the natural white silk of the kimono. I’m taking creative liberty with the design, so it’s taking me a bit longer than anticipated to precisely sew intricate blue camellias along the kimono. 

Despite the intricacy of the design I’m sewing, it should only take another measly two hours to finish, three at most. Actually, I should relay this information to Ayato. 

I turn around to do just that, but I wind up staring at Ayato as he reads the words on the paper in front of him. His brows are furrowed, and whatever’s written on the paper is clearly causing an internal dilemma for him. 

Okay, I’m a bit curious..

I return to my previous position beside Ayato, and I sit down beside him. He doesn’t say anything, but one of his hands gently reaches over to rest on top of mine. I ignore how delightful his hand feels on mine in favor of stealing a nosy glance at the paper he’s reading.

I catch a glimpse of the word ‘marriage’ and I abruptly look away. 

Marriage was not the word I expected to see. I feel my cheeks burn as I imagine this isn’t the first time Ayato’s received a letter like that. Why did I think for even a moment that- “Name, I apologize to ask this of you after you graciously agreed to my previous request, but may I ask something else of you?” I feel Ayato’s hand gently curl around mine, and although I know I should pull my hand away I curl mine around his in reciprocation. 

“Yes, you may.” Is my verbal response. I study Ayato’s handsome features, and I take joy in the noticeable way his eyes soften at the sound of my voice. “I originally needed a Kimono for the upcoming festival, but now there seems to be a delightful change in plans, if you will permit.” My eyebrows raise in curiosity, and as a prompt for him to continue. 

Ayato smooths a gloved thumb over the back of my hand, and I watch as he clearly contemplates his next words.

“To be frank, I’m quite tired of all these marriage proposals, and it just so happens a suitable candidate is already by my side. So, if you would do me the honor..”

My mind struggles to process Ayato’s words as he turns his body to face me, and he tenderly grapes both of my hands in his. 

Bashful doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel. I avert my eyes so I don't fall prey to his captivating features, especially his stupid beauty mark.

Ayato leans in close to my ear to whisper against it, “Name, look at me.” I take a steadying breath before obliging his request, and the emotion that swirls in his eyes inadvertently makes me squeeze his hands. He squeezes mine back before he finally voices his additional request.

“Would you do me the honor of being my wife?” My entire body explodes and I’m sure I’m unfortunately as red as a shiny red apple. Ayato studies my reaction for a moment before he bursts into laughter. My heart sinks, thinking he’s toying with me, but before I can remove my hands from his he tightens his grip on my hands as he pulls me against him.

I let out a yelp of surprise as I fall against him. He laughs as his arms wrap me in a hug. “Pardon my bad manners, but your face was utterly adorable. Yes, I want you to be my wife, but only for the night. If rumors circulate about me having a fiance, these pesky proposals will all but disappear from the incessant pile of paperwork I must look over.” 

I contemplate his words, and although the word ‘temporary’ and the fact he is indirectly using me leaves a bitter taste in my mouth, I decide to agree on one condition. “I’ll be your ‘fiance’ under the condition that you tell me the real reason you asked me of all people to sew your kimono.” I look up to see the way Ayato’s eyes reflect genuine excitement and subtle surprise. 

“My, insistent aren’t you? Alright, I agree to those terms.” Ayato loosens his hold on me, giving me the opportunity to escape his arms if I should choose. I remain in his arms and lean my head against his chest. Ayato hums a tune to himself as he holds me against him. 

“I’m sure it won’t come as a surprise to you if I say I may have had some… influence on how we met.” My eyes widen, and my heart pounds against my chest. I honestly suspected as much, as things had gone a little too smoothly with someone as high caliber as the head of the Yashiro Commission. 

“I will mention I’ve seen sparse glances of you around Inazuma, and you have piqued my interest. Not for the ill intent you may be thinking, I assure you, but for other reasons I do not wish to divulge. Not today, at least.” I can’t help but giggle a little at how sheepish that last sentence sounded, and Ayato awkwardly coughs to cover up what I’m sure is a bit of embarrassment.

“Regardless, I have been eager to get to know you personally, and our meeting at Ogura Textiles and Kimonos was just a wonderful event ordained by fate. Does this answer satisfy your curiosity?” Ayato slowly runs a hand along my back as he waits for my response. 

Honestly, it does, but I still have one question. “Why did you want to get to know me?” My words come out a little strained, and I hope he doesn’t question it. As much as I’ve enjoyed my time at the Kamisato Estate, I would hate to realize a man of such power only intended to use me. I’ve endured enough mistreatment from others already.

“Oh dear, it seems I’ve only managed to distress you instead of alleviate your concerns. Alright then, I’ll be completely transparent with you.” Ayato gently places his hands on my shoulders before he slowly pulls me back to look at him. I tentatively look into his elegant purple orbs as he speaks. 

“Do you recall a kimono you sold through Ogura? A furisode kimono with a Same Komon pattern?” I quickly rack my brain. 

A furisode kimono? I previously sold some of my designs through Ogura, which she gave me the mora for, just to see how well my designs would be perceived with the people of Inazuma. Fortunately, they sold out rather quickly, and one of the customers was a sweet young lady who returned to Ogura Textiles and Kimonos just to relay her thanks. 

Oh, wait, that same young lady was the one who bought the furisode kimono I made. From what I remember she was very pretty, kind, and well mannered. ..Now that I think about it, she resembled Ayato in many ways. 

“Yes, I remember. A respectful young lady personally gave me her thanks after buying the kimono. Why? Do you happen to know her-” Suddenly the words die in my throat and my eyes widen in realization. Ayato smiles at me since I finally put two and two together.

“That young lady is my younger sister, Kamisato Ayaka. Remember we had dinner together? Honestly, I learned of you and your work through her. I thought I’d catch a glimpse of the person who made Ayaka’s kimono, so I attempted to locate you. I used some outside help, but I managed to catch sight of you walking the streets of Inazuma. I have to say, when I saw you for the first time you were truly breathtaking, and a beautiful sight to behold.” Ayato all but gushes his admiration of my work and my perceived beauty, and I may as well be putty in his hands.

“O-Oh…” Is all I can shyly mutter. Ayato gently trails a hand down my arm as he silently gauges my expression. “I see, that makes a lot more sense. I’m so sorry for being suspicious of you, I’ve just had a lot of bad experiences with others across the nations and I..” I gulp and take a moment to catch my breath, as the delicate emotions I’m feeling cause my voice to waver. Ayato traces unknown shapes on my arm, and remains a comforting presence as I gather myself. 

“I just don’t want to be hurt again.” I whisper. “I understand.” Is his compassionate murmur of perception.

Although it’s silent afterwards, I feel like a weight has been lifted off my chest. I usually brush off offensive comments made about me, and I’m used to suppressing my feelings in order to cope with the many stressors of life. Some of those daily stressors are things that others will never experience in their lifetime. 

So to hear genuine understanding and empathy in two simple words, well…

I truly feel that he understands what I mean. 

I close my eyes as I rest my head against his chest yet again, and he happily complies with my actions. “Ayato…” I breathe. “Hm?” He hums in question.

“I’ll happily be your wife.”

His hand pauses its soothing motions on my back, and I can feel more than hear the way his breath hitches as his chest stills on inhalation.

A beat passes before he exhales. His free hand trails down my arm to hold my smaller hand in his bigger one. 

“I’d love nothing more.”

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“Ayato, aren’t I just pretending to be your wife?” The only response Ayato offers to my question is a muffled “yes” against the juncture of my neck.

I shiver as his breath fans across my sensitive neck, but I make no effort to move.

I can hear the gentle pitter patter of the rain outside as Ayato comfortably snuggles against me.

“Wouldn’t this be deemed ‘inappropriate behavior’ by your retainers?” I ask. “It doesn’t matter, I am perfectly able to comprehend and make my own decisions.” Ayato gives me a response that isn’t muffled this time.

With a blissful sigh, I finally relax against him as he pulls me impossibly closer to him. 

Our limbs are tangled together on my bed. Ayato visited my room earlier, and after a few swift knocks he entered my room and plopped himself down beside me.

I was still groggy and not fully awake yet, so I didn’t completely register everything that was happening as I welcomed Ayato into my arms with a soft giggle.

I was tired.

And totally not thinking straight.

Despite that, this does feel nice. Being held like this.

I detest the way my heart beats a steady rhythm against my chest as I feel more at ease than I have over the past couple of days. “Isn’t today that fancy event thing you’re supposed to attend? With the kimono I sewed for you?” I gently run my hands through the light blue strands of Ayato’s hair, and he releases a dreamy sigh against my neck.

“Yes, but that doesn’t occur until later, and that is where you will be presented as my fiance.” My hands suddenly stop moving through his hair. Ayato grumbles disapprovingly at this. He reaches up and uses his hand to guide mine in continuing their former movements.

“W.. Wait, but aren’t I supposed to be trained for that? What if I say something wrong or I make a bad impression? I don’t want it to affect you or your reputation..” I verbally voice my concerns, but Ayato doesn’t reply. 

“Ayato, I’ll continue if you respond.” Ayato’s response is quick after my words reach his pink tinted ears.

“You do not need to worry yourself over something so miniscule, Name. Whether they like you or not is none of your or my concern. From what I’ve seen of you over the course of these past few days, I have no concerns. I’m sure that you’ll be able to handle yourself just fine. You naturally conduct yourself in a manner that is suitable to be my fiance.” Ayato’s words subdue my anxious thoughts, but they have the added side effect of making me blush.

I resume running my fingers through his soft hair, and he hums in satisfaction. “You’re really clingy to someone you hardly know.” “Well, let’s change that.” “What do you-” I cut myself off as Ayato removes his head from my neck to send a charming smile in my direction. 

“You know my favorite color, but what is yours?” Ayato watches my face closely. “I, um, purple. I love the color purple, especially light purple. I like all shades of purple though.”  I answer. “Hmm. How lovely, purple is an elegant and graceful color. It is befitting for an individual such as yourself.”

“I swear to the Archons, Ayato!” I bashfully cover my mouth with my free hand as I look away, and I feel the way his chest rises and falls, pressed against mine, with his boisterous laughter. 

“Are you not used to such genuine compliments, Name?” Ayato teasingly trails a finger down my arm, and I refuse to look at what I know is a teasing smirk on his lips.

“W-Well yes, and um.. you’re really handsome, so hearing those words from someone like you is a dream come true. You’re a genuinely good person as well, so it’s kind of hard for me to believe that you can see me in that way.” I whisper. I close my eyes and take a deep, calming breath before opening them again.

When I look at Ayato’s face, I’m graced with the presence of a pink blush on his cheeks. I pointedly look at his beauty mark that is oh so close to my face, and it takes a lot of willpower for me not to lean in and kiss it. 

I watch as Ayato awkwardly coughs in an attempt to cover his embarrassment, and that action is what leads me into a giggling fit.

How can this man tease me relentlessly, yet the moment I compliment him in return he’s a flustered, blushing mess?

I’m almost tempted to compliment him again, if only to see what other pretty expressions he can make.

Ayato continues to smile at me fondly as my laughing fit slowly dies down. 

My next action is honestly out of my control. I can’t help it when he’s smiling at me with such profound adoration in his eyes. 

I give in to the urge and quickly lean in to press a tender kiss against his beauty mark, and I gaze deeply into his eyes as I pull away.

He’s frozen for a moment.

Or two.

Before his entire face is redder than I’ve ever seen it as he sputters and tries to come up with something to say, only to be at a loss for words. 

“Ayato? Are you okay?” I jokingly ask him. 

It feels very empowering to know I can fluster him just as much as he flusters me.

Ayato covers the lower portion of his face with his bare hands. He looks at the bed in favor of looking at me. 

“Can you give me a second? I need a moment.” Ayato’s bashful words elicit a grin out of me. 

I watch in amusement as Ayato visibly takes a few deep breaths in an attempt to collect himself. “This is a sight I could get used to.” I tease. 

I lean my head against a propped hand, and Ayato’s eyes reluctantly follow the action.

A few moments later, Ayato shyly moves closer to me, and I allow him to wrap his arms around me yet again.

“Please speak of this to no one.” 

“No promises.”

“Name.”

“No promises.” 

I love the way he groans in acceptance as he chooses to bury his face in the juncture of my neck again. 

Oh, this is fun.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

“Don’t apologize.” “Sorry.” “Name.”

This is the fourth time tonight I've apologized. This time it was because I clumsily bumped into Ayato. 

I’ve been sticking to Ayato’s side like glue as he talks to various important figures of Inazuma, and I’m doing my best to remain calm under the pressure of so many judgemental stares.

Ayato has more or less been my rock throughout this entire evening, and I’m beyond grateful to him for it. I can’t help but think that I should show him how much I appreciate his guidance tonight in some way, granted he is the reason I’m in this situation to begin with. 

For some stupid reason the thought causes a perverted smirk to present itself on my face.

I quickly catch myself when Ayato turns to look at me, and his eyes widen at my expression. I wipe the smirk off my lips, but it’s too late.

A similar smirk to my previous one finds its way onto his pretty lips. I can’t help but notice the way his smirk lifts the cute beauty mark near his lips. 

Ayato leans down to whisper in my ear. My cheeks warm as his tall figure lowers to my height. “Wow, Name. I never imagined I’d see such a lecherous look on your face.” Ayato’s breath tickles the shell of my ear, and the feeling causes a pitiful whimper to escape me. I enjoy the way Ayato’s breath catches at the sound. 

Ayato and I are taking a breather in a secluded area so I’m not too worried about someone spotting us, although it’s still a possibility. 

Ayato brought me out into the empty halls earlier when he noticed my stiff shoulders, and the small act of his hands wrapping around mine as he led me away from the prying eyes of the crowd… well..

Let’s just say my heart skipped a few beats. 

And my eyes may have sparkled.

…

Anyway-

My mind is drawn back to the present when his nose grazes the skin of my neck. I let out a gasp at the feeling of his soft lips pressed against my neck. “Ayato-” I grasp the sleeve of his kimono in a futile attempt to ground myself. 

Ayato groans as his lips slowly trail sweet kisses down my neck. 

I jump when the sound of footsteps reach my ears, and my heart lurches.

This is super improper! It’ll be bad for Ayato if someone sees us like this.

“Ayato, someone’s-” The rest of my words are incomprehensible as Ayato gently sucks on a sensitive spot on my neck. Now both of my hands are gripping his kimono, and I hear a startled noise from a few feet away.

The sound of footsteps fade away, accompanied by an awkward cough. I almost care about the fact someone saw us like this, but I can hardly muster the energy to as Ayato’s lips cast a captivating spell on the skin of my neck. Ayato pulls away once the sound of footsteps can no longer be heard. 

Ayato tilts his head up to look into my eyes. “Name.” My name sounds hoarse on his lips, and his name escapes my own in a hushed whisper.

My body acts before my mind can catch up, and I find myself leaning into Ayato’s welcoming lips. Ayato’s groan reaches my ears once our lips finally meet, and the stress from this entire evening leaves my body as I melt into Ayato. 

Ayato’s arms wrap around me to gingerly hold me against him as his body all but sinks against mine.

Our lips mold together perfectly, and if I wasn’t so engrossed in the kiss I would feel embarrassed by the moan I let out.

Ayato’s hand slowly trails down my body until it rests against the small of my back. 

As much as I’m enjoying the kiss, my body’s demand for oxygen becomes too much. I gently tap Ayato’s shoulder for him to pull away, and he languidly breaks our kiss. 

Ayato’s wistful sigh elicits a giggle out of me. We stare into each other’s eyes as our heavy breaths mingle in the short distance between our lips.

“Ayato, shouldn’t we return-” 

His mouth steals the rest of the words from my lips. I squeak when he slowly pushes me back into the solid wall behind me. 

This time I’m the one to pull away, and I blush when his lips chase mine in a desperate attempt to continue our kiss. 

“Ayato, wait please.” His lips abruptly stop chasing mine, and he groans in reluctant compliance. I take in his hooded eyes and ruddy cheeks, and that’s when I know.

This feeling is indisputable, but I still try to resist it nonetheless. “Name, I’m sorry if I got carried away… I..” Ayato trails off, and I quickly correct him before he can misunderstand my actions. “Ayato, honey, you didn’t do anything wrong. If you couldn’t tell, I leaned in too. I just broke the kiss since it may be a bit improper for the Yashiro Commissioner to be caught fervently kissing his fiance against the wall. If you’d like to continue, we’d have to go somewhere private.” Ayato’s eyes widen at my bold words, and I can visibly see the moment he finally registers that someone did in fact walk in on us kissing.

Instead of the panicked reaction I partly expected to see, a devilish smirk upturns his captivating lips.

This man is almost too attractive for his own good.

Actually, no, he is. And he knows it too.

“Alright. Then if my fiance permits it we shall return to the function to give our farewells. It is getting awfully late, and I’d hate to neglect the needs of my pretty wife.” A furious heat blazes across my entire body at his suave words, and he watches my reaction with amusement and another emotion I can not name.

“Ayato, did you only kiss me so someone would see? So they couldn’t question whether I was actually your wife- or, well, fiance.” Ayato’s eyes lower at my words, but I catch the hurt in his eyes.

I hate the way my heart hurts at his saddened expression. He begins to pull back a little, but I tighten my grip on his sleeves and pull him into me again.

“I-I don’t want to doubt you Ayato. I’m sorry, I just… I’m sorry, it’s not you. I believe your actions and your words, you’ve given me no reason to doubt them thus far.” Ayato sucks in a breath, and he allows me to press a kiss against his lips.

My kiss tells him the rest of the words that get caught in my throat. He immediately accepts my kiss, and overwhelming relief relaxes my tense shoulders. 

His acceptance tells me that he understands all the words I couldn’t say; he accepts me nonetheless.

When we part again, this time I’m the one who chases after him. Ayato chuckles as he allows me to kiss him again. “I understand. I don’t mind, we’ll move at whatever pace you are comfortable with. Whatever it is my wife wishes, I am more than happy to oblige her requests.” Ayato pulls away from me, and I watch as Ayato gets down on one knee in front of me. I allow him to tenderly hold my shaking hand in his.

My eyes water as he presses a sweet kiss against the back of my hand, and a tear slides down my cheek when he turns my hand over to press a delicate kiss against the palm of my hand. 

Before he can rise to his feet I practically throw myself into his arms.

“My, what’s gotten you so emotional?” Ayato knowingly murmurs the question despite knowing the answer. He silently holds me against him as more tears travel down the valley of my cheeks. 

It takes a few moments before I allow Ayato to see my tear stained face. He dutifully wipes my tears with a handkerchief. 

There’s no judgment in his eyes, and a well meaning smile placates any concerns I would’ve had. 

Once all of my tears are dried Ayato and I return to the function to give everyone our farewells before Ayato escorts me back to my room for the night.

He follows me inside my room, and he comically walks over to my bed and flops down onto his back. I can’t help but smile fondly at the sight of the esteemed Kamisato Ayato spread out like a starfish on my bed.

“Name, you can do more than just stare. I give you permission to touch.” The teasing lit to his voice immediately causes me to fluster. 

This man will be the death of me.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*   ♡　*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

The first thing I register is the soothing sensation of fingers playing with my hair. I coo as I snuggle closer to the smooth skin of my pillow. 

…

Wait.

My pillow doesn’t normally have smooth, warm skin….

I slowly pry my bleary eyes open. I struggle to adjust to the dim lighting of the room as I change my position. “Shh, go back to sleep.” Ayato’s low voice murmurs against my ear. 

I’m silent as Ayato hums, and my thoughts run a mile a minute as I try to remember what happened last night. 

From what I can recall, we changed into our nightwear before sitting side by side on my bed, just talking about how we feel about everything that’s happened and what we’d like to do moving forward. 

Unfortunately I fell asleep during the conversation. I was really tired, and Ayato’s steady pulse against the shell of my ear only encouraged me to rest. 

Now, I all but purr as Ayato plays with my kinky hair. “Did I give you permission to touch my hair?” I joke. Ayato's hand stops its soothing motions. Before he can completely withdraw his hand, I whine and place my hand over his to return his hand to its previous position. 

Ayato lets out a booming laugh as he continues to play with my hair. “It certainly seems as if our roles have been switched, hm?” I can only laugh as I recall an earlier time when Ayato was the one in my position. 

“I don’t mind, it feels wonderful.” I snuggle against his chest. My hand eagerly intertwines with his, and he willingly weaves his hand with mine. As his thumb rubs soothing shapes into the back of my hand, I splay my free hand against his chest. 

My eyes open again, and this time it doesn’t take me long to adjust to the dim lighting. I look at his face to gauge his reaction as I basically feel him up.

I adore the way his eyes squeeze shut and his face explodes in a delightful burst of red. 

“A-Ah, Name, I didn’t take you for the handsy type..” I snicker as he makes no attempt to stop me. 

A comfortable silence accompanies the peaceful atmosphere. My mind wanders, and it isn’t long before I voice a question. “How do you think last night went?” I ask.

Ayato squirms as one of my fingers brush over his nipple, but his hands don’t falter in my hair and his thumb continues its comforting movements. “I think everything went over smoothly. The individual who saw us made it much easier to get the point across; I’m a taken man.” Ayato sighs in content when my hand trails up to play with the baby hairs at the nape of his neck.

Ayato’s hand mimics my action, and I involuntarily shiver when he gives a playful tug to the little hairs on the nape of my neck. Ayato doesn’t say anything, but he resumes his previous playing of my hair, minus the hair tugging. 

I pout.

He isn’t tugging my hair. 

I think back on his words, and my cheeks warm when I remember what he said. “Wait- what do you mean by ‘I’m a taken man?’” “Name, aren’t you my fiance?” “I mean, in theory, yes-” 

I’m stunned by the sound of surprise that Ayato makes in response to my words. 

Did I say something wrong?

Ayato removes his hand from my hair to lift my chin. My eyes swirl with overflowing emotion as his alluring purple orbs stare deep into my eyes. 

“Yes, you were correct when you said ‘in theory,’ but I believe we should change that.” Ayato lets go of my chin and untangles himself from me. 

I sit up in bed as I watch him walk over to the possessions he left here the evening prior. “Ayato..?” He doesn’t respond as he riffles through his things until he finds what he’s looking for.

I get out of bed to see what he’s found. Before I can walk over to him he’s in front of me.

Except he’s kneeling before me on one knee, just like he did last night. 

He wordlessly slips something on my finger, and then he kisses the back of my hand.

“I know we’ve only known each other for a short period of time, but if you’ll allow me, I’d love to know you more intimately. From what I have seen you are an exceptional woman, Name. I have no qualms with letting go of my inhibitions around you, and this is normally a feeling that eludes me in many of my personal relationships. I’d be elated to have you as my fiance Name, not in theory, but in reality. Alas this is only if you’ll grace me with the honor of-” “You’re talking too much.” Ayato’s head shoots up so fast at my words that it’s almost comical. I immediately seal the deal with a passionate kiss against his lips before he can ask the meaning behind my words. 

I lean into the kiss until I fall against him, and he easily catches me in his warm embrace. When we both pull away for much needed air, I give him the verbal confirmation his eyes wordlessly ask for. 

“Yes, I’d love to be your fiance. Hopefully one day I’ll be your wife, if you will ever be so kind as to bless me with the opportunity…” I giggle as I mimic his previously formal tone as he basically proposed to me. His cheeks light ablaze in a color I’m slowly growing fond of.

“I am grateful to have you in my life. Thank you, Name.” “Yeah, yeah. Now kiss me again. Oh, and tug on my hair. I love that.” Ayato’s incredulous facial expression makes me laugh. 

As my bubbly laughter sounds throughout the room Ayato’s fond smile makes me feel at home.

He lifts himself off the floor with me in his arms before he gently places me on my bed. He’s quick to cuddle with me as sunlight streams into the room. Pure elation causes my eyes to water as the sunlight gleams against the ring he placed on my finger.

I close my eyes as I listen to Ayato’s heartbeat. A goofy grin presents itself on my lips, and I’m sure it’ll be a long time before it leaves.  

I feel a tug on the little hairs at the nape of my neck, and a mewl slips past my lips at the pleasant sensation. “Oh? Now that’s a sound I can get used to.” I playfully swat Ayato’s shoulder as his body shakes with laughter.

He presses a multitude of tender kisses all over my face, and there’s nowhere else in Teyvat I’d rather be. 

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[renthony]

Anyway here's my reading list for my big film censorship project in case anyone's been wondering what I've been up to when I'm not being a stupid idiot cringey fandom blogger or whatever the jackasses think I am:

Vaudeville, Old and New: An Encyclopedia of Variety Performers in America, by Frank Cullen

Vaudeville and the Making of Modern Entertainment, 1890-1925, by David Monod

From Traveling Show to Vaudeville: Theatrical Spectacle in America, 1830-1910, edited by Robert M. Lewis

American Vaudeville as Ritual, by Albert F. McLean Jr.

American Vaudeville As Seen by its Contemporaries, edited by Charles W. Stein

Rank Ladies: Gender and Cultural Hierarchy in American Vaudeville, by M. Alison Kibler

The New Humor in the Progressive Era: Americanization and the Vaudeville Comedian, by Rick DesRochers

Humor and Ethnic Stereotypes in Vaudeville and Burlesque, by Lawrence E. Mintz

"Vaudeville Indians" on Global Circuits, 1880s-1930s, by Christine Bold

The Original Blues: The Emergence of the blues in African American Vaudeville, by Lynn Abbott and Doug Seroff

Waltzing in the Dark: African American Vaudeville and Race Politics in the Swing Era, by Brenda Dixon Gottschild

The Wizard of Menlo Park: How Thomas Alva Edison Invented the Modern World, by Randall Stross

Edison, by Edmund Morris

The Rise and Place of the Motion Picture, by Terry Ramsaye

The Romantic History of the Motion Picture: A Story of Facts More Fascinating than Fiction, by Terry Ramsaye (Photoplay Magazine)

Before the Nickelodeon: Edwin S. Porter and the Edison Manufacturing Company, by Charles Musser

The Kinetoscope: A British History, by Richard Brown, Barry Anthony, and Michael Harvey

The Man Who Made Movies: W.K.L. Dickson, by Paul Spehr

A Million and One Nights: A History of the Motion Picture, by Terry Ramsaye

Emergence of Cinema: The American Screen to 1907, by Charles Musser

Dancing for the Kinetograph: The Lakota Ghost Dance and the Silence of Early Cinema, by Michael Gaudio

The First Screen Kiss and "The Cry of Censorship," by Ralph S.J. Dengler

Archival Rediscovery and the Production of History: Solving the Mystery of Something Good - Negro Kiss (1898), by Allyson Nadia Field

Prizefighting and the Birth of Movie Censorship, by Barak Y. Orbach

A History of Sports Highlights: Replayed Plays from Edison to ESPN, by Raymond Gamache

A History of the Boxing Film, 1894-1915: Social Control and Social Reform in the Progressive Era, by Dan Streible

Fight Pictures: A History of Boxing and Early Cinema, by Dan Streible

The Boxing Film: A Cultural and Transmedia History, by Travis Vogan

Policing Sexuality: the Mann Act and the Making of the FBI, by Jessica R. Pliley

Screened Out: Playing Gay in Hollywood, from Edison to Stonewall, by Richard Barrios

The Ashgate Research Companion to Moral Panics, edited by Charles Krinsky

A Companion to Early Cinema, edited by Andre Gaudreault, Nicolas Dulac, and Santiago Hidalgo

The Silent Cinema Reader, edited by Lee Grieveson and Peter Kramer

The Harlot's Progress: Myth and Reality in European and American Film, 1900-1934, by Leslie Fishbein

Oscar Micheaux and His Circle: African-American Filmmaking and Race Cinema of the Silent Era, by Pearl Bowser, Jane Gaines, and Charles Musser

Banned in Kansas: Motion Picture Censorship, 1915-1966, by Gerald R. Butters, Jr.

Black and White and Blue: Adult Cinema From the Victorian Age to the VCR

Complicated Women: Sex and Power in Pre-Code Hollywood, by Mick Lasalle

Dangerous Men: Pre-Code Hollywood and the Birth of the Modern Man, by Mick Lasalle

Pre-Code Hollywood: Sex, Immorality, and Insurrection in American Cinema, 1930-1934, by Thomas Doherty

Forbidden Hollywood: The Pre-Code Era (1930-1934), When Sin Ruled the Movies, by Mark A. Vieira

Sin in Soft Focus: Pre-Code Hollywood, by Mark A. Vieira

Hollywood's Censor: Joseph I. Breen & the Production Code Administration, by Thomas Doherty

The Dame in the Kimono: Hollywood, Censorship, and the Production Code, by Leonard J. Leff and Jerold L. Simmons

Moral House-Cleaning in Hollywood: What's it All About? An Open Letter to Mr. Will Hays, by James R. Quirk (Photoplay Magazine)

Will H. Hays - A Real Leader: A Word Portrait of the Man Selected to Head the Motion Picture Industry, by Meredith Nicholson (Photoplay Magazine)

Ignorance: An Obnoxiously Moral morality Play, Suggested by "Experience," by Agnes Smith (Photoplay Magazine)

Close-Ups: Editorial Expression and Timely Comment (Photoplay Magazine)

Children, Cinema & Censorship: From Dracula to the Dead End Kids, by Sarah J. Smith

Freedom of the Screen: Legal Challenges to State Film Censorship, 1915-1981, by Laura Wittern-Keller

Picturing Indians: Native Americans in Film, 1941-1960, by Liza Black

America on Film: Representing Race, Class, Gender and Sexuality at the Movies, by Harry M. Benshoff and Sean Griffin

White: Essays on Race and culture, by Richard Dyer

Black American Cinema, edited by Manthia Diawara

Colorization: One Hundred Years of Black Films in a White World, by Wil Haygood

Hollywood's Indian: the Portrayal of the Native American in Film, edited by Peter C. Rollins and John E. O'Connor

Wiping the War Paint Off the Lens: Native American Film and Video, by Beverly R. Singer

Celluloid Indians: Native Americans and Film, by Jacquelyn Kilpatrick

Native Americans on Film: Conversations, Teaching, and Theory, edited by M. Elise Marubbio and Eric L. Buffalohead

Framing Blackness: The African American Image in Film, by Ed Guerrero

Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies, & Bucks: An Interpretive History of Blacks in American Films, by Donald Bogle

Hollywood Black: the Stars, the Films, the Filmmakers, by Donald Bogle

White Screens, Black Images: Hollywood From the Dark Side, by James Snead

Latino Images in Film: Stereotypes, Subversion, and Resistance, by Charles Ramirez Berg

Reel Inequality: Hollywood Actors and Racism, by Nancy Wang Yuen

Visions of the East: Orientalism in Film, edited by Matthew Bernstein and Gaylyn Studlar

The Hollywood Jim Crow: the Racial Politics of the Movie Industry, by Maryann Erigha

America's Film Legacy: The Authoritative Guide to the Landmark Movies in the National Film Registry, by Daniel Eagan

Movie-Made America: A Cultural History of American Movies, by Robert Sklar

Of Kisses and Ellipses: The Long Adolescence of American Movies, by Linda Williams

Banned in the Media: A Reference Guide to Censorship in the Press, Motion Pictures, Broadcasting, and the Internet, by Herbert N. Foerstel

Censoring Hollywood: Sex and Violence in Film and on the Cutting Room Floor, by Aubrey Malone

Hollywood v. Hard Core: How the Struggle Over Censorship Saved the Modern Film Industry, by Jon Lewis

Not in Front of the Children: "Indecency," Censorship, and the Innocence of Youth, by Marjorie Heins

Degradation: What the History of Obscenity Tells Us About Hate Speech, by Kevin W. Saunders

Censoring Sex: A Historical Journey Through American Media, by John E. Semonche

Dirty Words & Filthy Pictures: Film and the First Amendment, by Jeremy Geltzer

Flaming Classics: Queering the Film Canon, by Alexander Doty

Masculine Interests: Homoerotics in Hollywood Film, by Robert Lang

Monsters in the Closet: Homosexuality and the Horror Film, by Harry M. Benshoff

New Queer Cinema: A Critical Reader, edited by Michele Aaron

New Queer Cinema: The Director's Cut, by B. Ruby Rich

Now You See It: Studies on Lesbian and Gay Film, by Richard Dyer

Gays & Film, edited by Richard Dyer

Screening the Sexes: Homosexuality in the Movies, by Parker Tyler

Out in Culture: Gay, Lesbian, and Queer Essays on Popular Culture, edited by Corey K. Creekmur and Alexander Doty

Out Takes: Essays on Queer Theory and Film, edited by Ellis Hanson

Queer Images: a History of Gay and Lesbian Film in America, by Harry M. Benshoff and Sean Griffin

The Lavender Screen: the Gay and Lesbian Films, Their Stars, Makers, Characters, & Critics, by Boze Hadleigh

The Celluloid Closet: Homosexuality in the Movies, by Vito Russo

Tinker Belles and Evil Queens: the Walt Disney Company From the Inside Out, by Sean Griffin

The Encyclopedia of Censorship, by Jonathon Green

[vampirevatican]

Obey Me Headcanons

part 1: Language and Race/Ethnicity

DISCLAIMER: keep in mind this is with the thought of them being humans, or mainly for fun nd adding more melanin and culture specifics to the cast

Lucifer

german white, no debating.

he knows every language and long dead languages

but don't you dare try to get him to understand slang

the second he uses it, it sounds weird coming from him and almost corporate

not that he doesn't know or understand the slang, it just doesn't suit him

Mammon

this is a black man. a light skinned black man.

not even talking on canon at this point, bc that's obvious

the confidence and amount of flirtation he exudes?? yeah this mfer knows he's pretty and therefore he's a light skin

because it's mammon, i think he knows languages from the richest countries or countries with the most casinos or game money related things?? (which could easily be all with how much he's been to the human world)

multilingual but ik this bastard doesn't practice and probably only knows how to get himself out of trouble, get around and flirt

Leviathan

who am i if i didn't say he knows english, japanese and korean

and obviously it's for the fandoms and content he enjoys

anyway he's blasian bc i make the rules, and there's enough stuff in canon to make me think this

either he's blasian or it's social/cultural osmosis from mammon, but he doesn't use aave wrong...

don't ask me how ik, you just had to be there

anyway if he was white he'd be pasty af, but bc of my blasian headcanon he's a bit tanned and yet not a lightskin

Satan

another given but he is multilingual, even knowing dead languages (overachiever/in the pursuit of knowledge)

white, but slavic

russian specifically

as badly as i wanna say he's pale? i can't bring myself to do that, so average

Asmodeus

white yes, but french

yes it's because the french language is associated with love why else

i wanna say he knows living languages bc i can see him meddling with humans quite often

this mfer started a war just to goof

skin tone?? a little bit of color to him, bc he's not a homebody

Beelzebub & Belphgor

Hispanic, specifically afro-latinx

They know spanish, latin and english

Now do i like the concept of one of them being lighter toned? yes but not light skinned

these two don't have that energy so

beel is brown, belphie is dark

bonus points for vitiligo belphie (yes cowboy/bull things and demon transformation)

Diavolo

latin. hispanic... this one is a no brainer

ofc he speaks latin, spanish and english but mainly uses english bc he hears that it's the most used language

he is, technically, lightskin but it's not lightskin (derogatory)... do you understand??

he has a charm but it's not like he knows that for certain and is flaunting it the way mammon or asmo would

Barbatos

because of a name like this... id like for him to be black, but a dear friend raises the thought of him being asian

so yes another blasian or just asian, specifically from china

this suits him not only because he looks good in a montsuki (male kimono) but because of age

he is simply, one hell of a butler

if we're going with just asian, i wanna say not pasty skin tone but like... definitely fair

if blasian? then dark skin, i just think it'd go nice on him with his color palette

Simeon and Luke

A dark skinned mother and her black baby

Luke is a sassy but sweet child, i wanna say he's brown skinned or the same tone as simeon?

Simeon is a dark skinned, beautiful, man and you will never take that from me

Luke is learning other languages but he knows english, spanish and japanese

Simeon is multilingual, it only makes sense to me

Solomon

and... solomon is white

definitely learning dead languages at this point but please don't ask him to translate everything

he knows english easily bc it's his native tongue, specifically BRITISH/OLD ENGLISH

but anything else takes the gears in his mind to start churning so he can't just take something in mandarin and quickly translate it to english

he's pasty... again im biased so not as pasty as levi (if we go with white levi canon) but he's close

[stirringwinds]

Isn't something like that canon for nyo japan? although admittedly it doesn't make as much sense

yeah, it doesn't make as much sense for nyo!japan, haha. Kiku not having long hair in canon before the meiji-era feels like a missed opportunity precisely because for Japan (and China), the politicisation of short hair with modernisation, westernisation and "civilisation" in the 19th century (or: from the point of view of their opponents, a rather disgraceful break from important traditional values)—was centred on men's hairstyles, rather than women's. after all, it was still the norm for western women to have long hair in the 1850s. short women's hair as a statement emerges as a global trend more in the 1920s—and Japanese women adopted those styles too (as these photos show).

for men, short hair wasn't really regarded as appropriate in japan or china before the modern era. there were some exceptions, like shaving your head bald to enter a religious order. but otherwise from what i know, forcibly having your hair cut could be a punishment, precisely because the norm is long and pulled back into a bun/topknot, or the Manchu-style braid/queue in Qing China (which was its own controversy because the Qing rulers were ethnically Manchu, and the queue was seen as a foreign imposition on Han Chinese culture). Nonetheless, overall trend = long hair for men.

helltalia-wise, i headcanon that both Kiku and Yao had dramatic haircuts, though Kiku did it first (by 1867, when the Meiji emperor ascended the throne)— in line with how his long-term, pretty intimate relationship with Jan/Johan (Ned) and his exposure to Dutch studies pre-disposed him to being more willing to adopt western styles faster than Yao. after all, Kiku's no stranger to borrowing from others. i like the visual break from tradition and change in worldview this represents, especially since Kiku was not only heavily influenced by Yao for more than 1000 years before (the kimono itself was adopted from the traditional chinese hanfu), but because long hair for men also connoted "civilisation" through the chinese imperial worldview. for example, when china was conquering and colonising what is now southern china, the baiyue tribes who lived there were perceived as 'barbarians', and chinese writers back then noted their short hair as a point of distinction.

so, Kiku cutting his hair short is both about reinventing himself, but also inherently embedded with a symbolic turning away from Yao in some ways (as @hetagrammy and @acemapleeh also observed with some solid tag comments about Confucianism, the mentor-protege dynamic these two had vs. the pull of westernisation). it's like, Yao and Kiku have been at war with each other before the Westerners showed up (it involves Yong Soo, Yao kicking Kiku's ass and being very 'remember your place, upstart'), but to me, what still felt constant even during such periods of antagonism is that it's implicitly taken for granted that China was THE powerful empire, and that Yao's cultural traditions connoted power and prestige—in a manner similar to the sort of image Europeans had of Rome and Greece. so i really like the visual of Kiku's Dramatic Haircut, especially since one reason Japan eventually caved to the Americans' demands during the Perry Expedition was that they'd already heard from the Dutch what happened to China during the Opium Wars.

[crazycatsiren]

Hello! I hope your day treats you well.

Wasn't sure who to ask & can't vet that online sources aren't written by weird people, so I'll ask you, hope you don't mind :)

Is wearing hanfu restricted to Chinese people? Not that I plan on that, but got genuinely curious after seeing lots of discussions on some traditional wear in different Asian countries.

My opinions are the same as how the Japanese generally feel about non Japanese wearing kimonos.

If you do it in a respectful manner, I feel rather flattered that you take such an interest in the culture of my people. There are many aspects that we definitely don't mind sharing.

Besides, the Han Chinese are the majority in China. I'd personally be a bit more mindful when it comes to the ethnic minority groups, depending on context. Keep in mind, hanfu is only one of many types of traditional Chinese clothing. We have many, many others.