#helping businesses off Dei

[if-they-cannot-see-me]

so was anyone gonna tell me that office depot dot com wants to kill god or-

[hobiebrownismygod]

Forgotten Girl Hobie Brown x Fem!Reader Part 2/2!

A/N Sorry this took so long 😭 I've been pretty busy.

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Taglist: @therealloopylupin2099 @rinverse @l0starl @daydreaming-en-pointe @itsparis-077 @vileviale @puff-hugs @d0ubl-tr0ubl3 @lauryn2558 @sunasslut69 @ask-1610-miles @axels-garden @s6onder @nyx-lyn123 @eli21345 @miniaturesuitfox @spotconlon55 @riris-radioactive-panther @ask-1610miles

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───> TAGLIST --> MASTERLIST

He hadn't spoken to you in weeks. In fact, Hobie didn't think he'd even seen you around much after your last conversation. You were always so slippery, avoiding him every time he tried to come talk to you and heading out on missions almost every hour of every day.

He didn't understand why you were being so distant. Well, the two of you had never been friends friends, never been as buddy-buddy as he was with Gwen and Pavitr, but he always had liked you. He thought you were sweet, kind, the all-around good girl that he could start up a conversation with every once in a while.

And now he couldn't help but a feel a little put-off by the way you were acting. After all, if it was just slipping away, he wouldn't mind as much...but you were also being so snarky.

Giving him bored looks when he tried to start up small-talk (conversation which he absolutely hated by the way, he only did it so he could try to figure out what was going on with you), being louder, no longer as quiet as you'd been whenever he was around before, and best of all...you were funny. He couldn't even remember you making a real joke, a sarcastic, fiery one around him before...until now.

And if he was being honest...he liked it.

He liked this you.

It was like you were finally being your real self, the one he'd heard about from your friends and other Spider-people, and even if this personality wasn't the sort he was used to from you, it was still fun to see.

"Oi!" he grabbed your arm as you attempted to walk past him, your eyes dead set forward as if you didn't even see him. "Where'ya off to?"

"Nowhere important" You replied normally, looking up at him. Seeing him staring down at you, a coy smile on his face, made your heart wrench slightly. But you'd already given up. There was no point.

"Nowhere? But you're waddling away so quickly" he teased, leaning down slightly so his eyes met yours. When you didn't respond, his smile faded slightly and he cleared his throat, standing up straight.

"Have you been avoidin' me these past weeks?" He asked abruptly.

Your eyes widened slightly and you immediately scoffed and pushed his hand off your arm. "Not everything's about you, you know" You said, biting the inside of your cheek.

"Oh?" He asked with a laugh. "Someone's gotten snarky, 'aven't dey?" His accent thickened slightly as he stood back, searching for a way to get you to stay. "Come on, dove, jus tell me where you're going!"

"Miguel called me for another mission" You said, folding your arms over your chest.

"You going with anyone?" he asked curiously, cocking his head to the side.

"Why's it matter to you?" You asked with a slight smile.

He shrugged. "Maybe I want to come with you."

"To...?"

"No reason. Just tagging along." He rubbed the back of his neck, looking to the side. "Just haven't talked to you in a while s'all"

"Aww, did you miss talking to me?" You teased, "I never knew our little convos mattered so much to you"

"They did." He admitted, a little more solemnly. He hesitated for a moment, taking a breath before explaining, "Look, dove, I like you, alright? I really do. And honestly?" He smiled, leaning in slightly again. "I missed you a little bit." He pinched his fingers together in front of you, taking your hand. "Just a little."

You felt your face heat up slightly and you immediately looked away. "I never knew that." You said quietly. You'd always thought you were more of a burden to him. That he never noticed you or that you just weren't noticeable. Yet apparently...he did notice you. More than he'd admitted.

"Really? Thought I was making it obvious...always talking to you and shit" He said with a raised brow. "Was the small-talk not plain enough?"

You chuckled, looking up at him with a grin. "The small-talk was horrific."

"That was the goal" He winked, pulling you in a little closer. "I think I like seeing you like this. All smiley and fun."

"Really?" You asked, smile fading slightly as a feeling of warmth began bubbling in your chest. "I'm fun like this?"

"I mean the whole 'sweet', 'quiet' look suited you fine, yeah, but I think you're a lot more interesting when you're open with me, darling" He chuckled, pressing his lips gently to the palm of your hand.

You smiled. So...you weren't as much of a burden as you'd thought you were.

Why had you even stayed hiding your real personality from him all these months? You'd expected him to not like you, to think you were too loud, too annoying. That's what you'd been told before.

But it seemed like the reason your little antics hadn't been working was because they weren't real. They weren't the real you.

And now that you were showing him the real you...well it just felt better, both to him and to you.

You were snapped out of your thoughts, eyes widening as he wrapped his hand around your wrist, holding it in his rather large palm.

He hesitated at your action, pulling his head back slightly. "I'm not moving too fast, am I?" He asked awkwardly.

Suddenly, you pulled him into a needed hug, burying your face in his chest and taking him by surprise. He stumbled back slightly, not having expected it. It took him a moment to adjust before returning the hug, patting your back gently. "Dove?"

"I think I've waited long enough" you mumbled with a smile, looking up into his eyes with your arms still wrapped tightly around him. "So let's speed things up, yeah?"

[yowyowyaoi]

Deidara's Daily Texts from the Akatsuki, Part Two

From Itachi:

I swear I'm not mad just give it back

You're STILL not over that?!

What are you even shaving? You don't have a single hair on your face!

Not my business who you date, just keep them from fighting all the time!

That's funny because Hidan said it was you, asshole.

I never ask you questions like that about Sasori, do I?!

You better hide, Kakuzu's going around collecting rent

God you're a worse gossip than Tobi!

I know it was you my whole room smells like clay!

That's a really lewd thing to say ... are you really hitting on me or are you just drunk off your ass?

Yeah but considering I use nothing in mine and you use like 200 products in yours, I'd say mine is better.

Stop it. You're not a pet person.

Okay can you just come with me? I don't ever ask you for favors do I?!

Pay me back what you owe me first.

From Hidan:

Yeah but I'm hotter. Like WAY hotter.

He loves to say stupid shit like that, he's not being serious.

Bet his dick is bigger tho.

That's literally the most stupid shit I've ever heard. We're MEANT to eat meat, fucker!

Yeah but if shark dick catches us he'll beat our asses and Kakuzu already said he's not putting me back together if it happens again!

I'll pray to Jashin for you, you pathetic atheist.

Let's get the fuck out of here and get something to eat. Kakuzu's sleeping I can swipe his wallet!

Me and you? In your DREAMS, kid. You couldn't handle this immortal dick.

Why tf would I care about that? Tits or not me and you are brothers, man.

Crablegs.

No, steak. Rare-rare. Still mooing.

Fuck a vegetable. Load it up with meat.

No wait corn is good but make sure it's seasoned with the meat blood.

That cunt did not beat my ass he caught me by surprise! I'll kill him next time I see his ugly face!

From Konan:

I don't remember my siblings so you all are it for me.

When a girl asks how old you think she is always answer like 10 years younger than you actually think! But seriously, 40?! FORTY??

Did you always know or did it take you a little bit to figure it out?

Rose petal or honeysuckle. Sometimes lilac if it's not too overwhelming.

It's a complicated situation for sure. They both feel something strongly for you but if my opinion counts? I'd stay with Sasori. At least you know what to expect from him, and I think he genuinely loves you.

I've narrowed it down to you or Hidan. If you confess I'll go easy on you. :-)

Please be gentler with him. He may hide it but he's gotten really fragile these last few months and he's in pain almost constantly.

Threatening to "beat people's asses" isn't my style. I go for the silent kill.

Wow, HE did that for YOU? That's interesting.

Take it up with Kakuzu. He's supposed to provide you all with extra money for exactly these types of things.

I would just do it, Dei. Be grateful your punishment is so light compared to what you did.

Are you two serious? You realize we're all trying our hardest NOT to attract negative attention?!

Perkier if it's chilly out ;)

I thought about it but I've had it this length for forever. It'd probably look weird long.

Only if you promise to sit still this time. I'm not gonna have you complain if it gets smudged again.

From Kakuzu

Brat. Stop.

I don't give a shit if you don't like him. He's valuable and this organization can't afford to lose him. So SUCK IT UP.

The waxing poetic was one thing but the actual poetry was nauseating.

That's coming out of your paycheck.

How is that an "emergency expense"?!

I don't care what you feel it is, "unfair" or not EVERYONE is expected to contribute to the bills. You use the lights? You pay. You take showers? You pay. You eat the food? You. PAY.

I know you two are friends. You have fairly good ideas about what he likes. Help me and I'll take off that debt you owe me from last month.

Sasori can do that for you, can't he??

Nice try, kid, but you still owe me. And you couldn’t handle my immortal love anyway.

From Tobi

I'd ask you to come with but Itachi thinks you'll try and blow him up while he's asleep.

Diabetes was just made up by assholes who don't want us to eat all the good sugar!

He's really so selfish he wouldn't let me borrow you for one night?

Hidan said it was you ...

I KNOW you like older men! Hey what if I told you I was 31, what then??

Of all the things that could be under this mask, why would "sharingan" be one of your guesses? That's ridiculous Senpai!

Come on Senpai! Leader would be mad at first but I think everyone would like a puppy!

Just tell him that you were only home 10 days this month so you should only have to pay 1/3 of the rent

If you want to but Hidan would probably call you a lot of names for wearing it

Marry me and I'll carry you everywhere all the time. It's a good deal!

Let's see if one of the others will trade with us, I hate going to really cold places

Try if you want to but Konan hit me so hard last time I saw stars for three days

Can you make me a bomb shaped like a scythe? Hidan is getting on my nerves.

From Zetsu

It's complicated, but everybody's blood has a distinct scent. Your's smells like lava and ash. It's very unique.

"Love" or not I'd watch my back, child. You'd make a prettier puppet for him than anyone else.

The years don't go by but centuries do.

Come now, you could have left SOME of those bodies in-tact for me!

I can't imagine that it would matter in the long run.

If you three don't stop attracting so much attention we'll have to pick up and move yet again!

I can tolerate human food but it doesn't compare to humans as food.

Neither. Neither of them is a suitable match for you. I'd run as far as I could from both of them.

Thank you for the offer but I don't believe your moisturizer would be effective on my plant skin.

No, not especially. Things are much the same to me.

If Kakuzu said no then there's no point in asking Leader. Kakuzu holds the money with an iron fist and Nagato has never once interfered with his decisions.

A bit more rest and some decent food would do you a world of good.

From Nagato

Then I must not understand true art because all I can see is property damage and unwanted negative attention being drawn towards our organization.

I understand your frustration but please continue to work with him. I need Sasori to stay here and you're the only one Tobi will listen to.

Oh? It seems it may be time I had a talk with you young ones then.

I see no need for further recruits.

Yes, thank you. Konan used it on my hair and it worked wonderfully.

I'm aware you don't like him but please endeavor to coexist in this group with him. Also remember how precarious his health is before you pull another stunt like the one you and Hidan did yesterday.

I won't stand in the way of your personal goals but surely you realize how extreme self-detonation sounds?

I got you all these phones as a way to communicate efficiently with your partners and with the entire group over long distances. NOT to play games. Kakuzu tells me the phone bill is $200 over it's usual amount due to unathorized games and extra features. If this keeps up I'll take them back.

Next time please be sure you're checking who you're sending explicit pictures to. I assume that was meant only for Sasori's eyes? Now I have Tobi and two others ready to kill him to be your partner.

From Kisame

I shouldn't admit it but it WAS very funny.

But what would be the purpose? Samehada steals chakra, aesthetics don't matter.

I can't tell the future but I can guess that if he's stayed this long, then he probably means to stay with you for life.

Yeah well if one more "accidentally" goes off under his window while he's napping I'm going to make a sandwich of your fingers, kid.

I suppose that would be fun but good luck getting the money from Kakuzu.

I can't even imagine the lives they live. It's really more merciful for them that we extract their demon and send them to the afterlife.

Our relationship is so much more than that but all you immature brats ever ask about is the sex aspect. Shameful.

There's no way he bought that fresh, I can smell it all the way back in my room!

Wear your cloak and perhaps borrow Sasori's as well, it's extremely windy and chilly.

Have you considered a haircut, maybe? Or to dye it black like my Itachi's?

Lol relax it was a joke, no need for threats.

From Sasori

I did get them. Beautiful, but Kakuzu would kill you if he knew you were using these phones for such lewd purposes.

A "magic cure" doesn't beat eating right, going to bed at a decent hour, and exercising once in a while, brat.

Funny how they all think I'M the pervert here when YOU'RE the one who came at ME so aggressively. Brat.

I can think of a much better use for all of those pretty mouths of yours, Dei. Come see me and I'll show you what I mean.

Maybe I need to get you a dictionary for Christmas. Because you STILL don't seem to understand what "covert" and "stealth" mean.

Yeah well you nearly dying because of your own carelessness isn't what I'd call fun. So stop it before I end you myself.

I would never.

"<3" is not a heart. I don't care what idiots say. A real human heart is NOT shaped like that. I'll bring you one of my anatomy textbooks so you can see for yourself.

Yes, I suppose. But don't make it a habit please.

Your breathing sounded strange. Come see me for a checkup. Now.

I don't care for when he sends us on missions to cold places. Bad for you and puts a lot of wear on Hiroku.

Trust me, you DO snore. Like a steam engine.

Why you can't simply ignore him, I'll never understand.

Your eating habits are atrocious, brat.

You're quite the silly one, aren't you?

Mm. You know it's not in me to be jealous. But. If I *ever* see him touch you like that again it'll be the last time his fucking hand is attached to his body. You're MINE.

It's just baffling to me that you won't do it. You'd be the centerpiece of the entire collection! Come on I KNOW you love attention!

I wouldn't trust Hidan around something like that.

Goodnight, my sweet prince. See you in the morning ... if the poison doesn't take you out :-)

As per the Inbox request of @tulipunainenruusu 😊

[sashiavi]

Have you seen those mods that turn SDV Leah into a fox girl/Abigail into a cat and stuff? All the townsfolk (or just the date-able ones) being hybrids would be so cute and funnn like we have puppy Sam, bull Alex,black cat seb etc

hybrid farmer taking their golden retriever farm pet for a walk and gets dragged over to sam and that's how they first meet

Gah yesss I remember seeing them around- I never had them downloaded because I always had the Seasonal Villager Outfits Mod <//3

But you're so rightttt

The first week on the farm had been all too busy, tilling the old sandy dirt day in and day out to plant crops, whacking tree debris and stones out of the way to make a barebone path through the property. Not to mention, the fluffy golden retriever pup the nice lady from the Ranch had dropped off at your farm. Covered in mud, twigs and fleas, you swore it took your whole day just to scrub the poor thing clean.

With that in the forefront of your mind, the last thing you were concerned about was making an impression upon the town. So when you finally shuck on some clothes that weren't stained green with grass and clip on your new Pups harness you were ready to face the music.

The early morning breeze urged your feet to move, up past the bus stop and into the towns entrance. Your dog was keen to sniff around, pulling against the harness with some resistance. Until it suddenly bounded ahead, yanking you along as it barked and drooled, eventually toppling over a poor man standing by a tree.

Before you could profusely apologize you find the person scritching and scratching your playful puppy, taking all the slobbery licks and kisses your dog has to offer. It's soon you realise that the man has his own set of bouncy, golden ears, and a happy tail wagging along with your dog's.

And den dey wuv eachother >v>

I can just imagine the others too </3

Alex making a drop by the farm for his Granny, passing out her famous homemade cookies as a favour for her. He spots a neat fence keeping in a small heard of cattle with you inside, patting the spotted fur of the cows and setting down a metal pail to collect their milk.

For some reason, he can't help but be jealous. Tail whipping side to side, brow scrunching ever so slightly. Why can't he get pats on his head too? He's barely any different to them.

Ugh jealous Alex my beloved <//3 I just know he'd take it out on you with his cock ;>

Or grumpy Kitty Sebastian, slinking around you in the dark outside his house, making an attempt to avoid you as you walk home from the mine. He even withholds from hitting his cigarette lest the orange glow give him away. Something about watching you in the dark sparks something hot in his chest..

Grumpy kitty Sebby who's a little jealous you're taking up all of Sam's attention at the tavern every Friday night (at least that's what he tells himsel, we all know he really wants you hehehe)

Hnnhg mmmgg Shane ahhhgnngn hnng *drooling*

I really don't know what he would be <//3 Grumpy Wolf lmao

Why does Harvey give me mouse vibes I'm so sorry- (I need to peg him he's submissive and breedable)

[ladykissingfish]

Deidara: Danna? Are you busy?

Sasori: Why?

Deidara: I need you to step on me, hm.

Sasori: Is this a new kink, or —?

Deidara: No! I pulled a muscle in my back yesterday and I can’t straighten it out. You walking on my back might help crack my spine and make me feel better.

Sasori: Ah; okay then. Lie on the floor …

Sasori: *waits for Deidara to lie on his stomach, then steps on his back and walks across it slowly*

Deidara: Ahhhh; feels so nice, hm.

Sasori: I’m not too heavy?

Deidara: No, you’re just right. Which is good because if you were too heavy then —

*Tobi walks into the room*

Tobi: Oooh, Senpai! Are we playing a new game?! Tobi wants to play, too!

Tobi: *runs full-speed at Deidara, pushes Sasori out of the way and jumps straight on to Deidara’s back*

Deidara: *shrieks as his spine loudly cracks*

Sasori: *shoves Tobi off*  Dei? Are you alright?!

Deidara: I … I think so …

Deidara: *experimentally stands up*

Deidara: Wow … I feel so much better, hm! Thanks, guys! *walks out*

Tobi, to Sasori, in Obito voice: Well, well; looks I’m better at being on top of your boyfriend than you, puppet-man. How does that —

Sasori: *whips out his metal tail and pins Tobi to the wall*

Sasori: You touch him again, you look in his direction, you even think about him, and I’ll kill you.

Tobi, still in Obito voice: You think that worries me, Sasori? You think I fear something as trivial as death? Nothing scares me!

Sasori: You know that dango shop up the road? I’m friends with the owner. One call to him and you’ll never be allowed in there again. And did I mention the surrounding shops in the other villages are all run by relatives of his?

Tobi:

*the next day*

Deidara: Hey, Tobi; wanna hang out? We can watch a movie or go for a walk or —

Tobi, shrieking: STOP TRYING TO SEDUCE ME AWAY FROM MY ONE TRUE LOVE, YOU EVIL MAN! *runs away*

Deidara:

[beardedmrbean]

https://x.com/btzpaper/status/1767666356101566740?s=46

>Hired on a ip that pointed out that racism and isolation is bad

>Refuse to hire white people

This is the bitch that boondocks was making fun off

>Hired on a ip that pointed out that racism and isolation is bad

>That was created by 2 Jewish men as well, which if the current system is running that means they're white too, (handy when it's not flip flopping every other day, someone puts a horn in a game they're an oppressed minority.

Libs should have tagged U.S. EEOC (@USEEOC) / X find out if openly admitting to not hiring people based on race falls under their umbrella or if they should just file a civil rights lawsuit.

Might be a unpopular position with some of my moots and followers but one of the biggest tragedies of the massive DEI push is things like this

Programs that have been in place for 50-60 years or more to help minority owned businesses get started on their feet, buy a home, go to college, you name it there was probably a program to help people out with it.

People pushed and shoved and screamed racism/sexism and told every white person they were the devil and finally some of them took a look at the wording of the civil rights act and realized it protects them too, which I'm sure some people had complained about these programs before but not enough to fuss with.

But now, there's a cadre of people that are pissed off about the way they're being treated and figure if you're going to act like I'm the devil I may as well play the part.

Which from a legal, letter of the law standpoint, there's not really any way to defend against these lawsuits that I can think of, you can't exclude on any of the things covered by the civil rights act.

And it sucks because this is going to hurt minority communities and I wish there were a way to dial back time and slide some of these programs under the radar again, the problem is we'd still have people like the woman in the video openly bragging about it.

Granted that's easier to deal with and doesn't actually damage minority communities, at least not till people get fed up enough to sue a federal agency that exists to help black farmers pay the bills, because it's illegal to discriminate based on race, in retaliation.

But ya, this woman is in for a bad time I think, stupid to brag about that with all the stuff I'm talking about here going on.

[archoniluthradanar]

The Volturi Summer Ball

The Volturi Summer Ball-second winner in the one-shot story poll

This one-shot comes off the storyline of my one-shot series, Summer Fun with the Volturi masters, all posted under Tales of the Volturi at AO3. Got all that? Ok then, here we go.

Thanks to @vampyrheartz for the Moodboard (to inspire me).

Marcus is now mated to the Reader who is still human (and featured in those one-shots). She joins the other wives, Sulpicia and Athenodora, in getting ready for the ball.

The annual ball is a mix of vampire and human guests. But it's alright. Everyone will be having a good time.

oooooooooooooooooooo

The masters had taken care of you since the day they had saved your life. Except for the times you could convince them to share with you your mortal existence, you spent time with them on a business level. You helped them with their responsibilities to the city of Volterra and watched some of the vampire trials they had to judge. But the day came when you would participate in an annual ritual. The Volturi Summer Ball.

Once a year, the Palazzo dei Priori would open its doors to vampires and humans alike. It was a festive occasion, dating back to older times beginning with the Romanians. No one ever brought their name up, the Volturi insisting this was their celebration. Aro would invite the city's leaders and their spouses, along with a special invitation going out to any vampires within the area, with requirements for behavior to be strictly observed. This applied to civilized covens and nomads alike. It was important, because this was one of the few times humans were guaranteed to be completely safe within the walls of the castle. Any vampire who attacked a human guest would be instantly destroyed.

The invited humans were aware of the nature of the Volturi, having worked with them for decades. Due to their sworn, and paid for, silence, the vampires could be themselves during the ball.

You were crucial in the preparations, helping the current secretary in compiling a list of invitees, then sending the invitations out. Yet, as the mate of one of the masters, you were also to play the role of hostess, along with the other wives, Sulpicia and Athenodora.

In the rooms you now shared with Marcus, you searched through your wardrobe, disappointed in not finding anything suitable for such a grand affair. He came into the bedroom, seeing you sitting on the bed looking so forlorn. Sitting at your side, he embraced you with his arm. "What is wrong, dear one? You look so sad. Is there anything I can do?"

"Marcus, this is the first Summer Ball I'm taking part in, and to sound cliché, I haven't a thing to wear. I will be representing you and the Volturi, and I have to be impeccable."

It was all Marcus could do not to laugh at his mate's very human concern. Still, he felt some anticipation for the first time. The Spring Ball never concerned him, and he would only make an appearance to placate Aro. Now he had a reason to go. It was you. He'd planned on asking you to dance with him, something he had not done since Didyme was alive. He was so pleased that you had embraced her memory, and felt no jealousy where she was concerned. It made Marcus love you all the more. So he had an idea.

"My love, I will ask Corin to come get you and take you to the Queens' Tower. You may meet Aro and Caius' mates there. I'm sure they would be happy to help you find a new gown to wear. They usually hire the best dress designer in Rome to make their gowns. This one knows what we are and we pay him a great deal of money to be on-call and to keep his silence. He may think you are a vampire at first, but I'm sure he will notice the difference once he takes your measurements."

You grin, delighted with this plan. "Oh, Marcus, thank you," you say, hugging your mate. You stand to face him, moving between his spread legs and sitting on one. His right arm holds you while his left hand takes your hand and kisses the wrist. "I love you so much," you say, happy to see him smiling. "I'll wait right here until Corin arrives."

Marcus hates to let you go. These small interludes with you give him his greatest joy these days. But to speak with Corin, he must leave for the tower. He pushes you up and stands himself, kissing your cheek and leaving.

You sit back on the bed, imaging what type of gown you want.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

Later, Corin brings you to the Queens Tower room, where you are greeted by both Aro and Caius' beautiful mates. You feel intimidated by Sulpicia, Aro sometimes taking the liberties of an unmarried man with you. But she smiled and hugged you as her new sister. If she knew about Aro's attentions to you, she didn't say anything.

"Welcome, sister. This is Athenodora, as you must know. Congratulations for making our Marcus so happy. At last, our leadership is complete." She stepped to a table covered in books and fabric swatches. "Come here, child," she calls to you. "These are designs and fabrics sent by Master Cervelli. He's one of the best designers in Rome. See if anything here calls to you, my dear."

Sulpicia gave you the strangest look. "Aro has kept you happy, hasn't he?"

She must have known about the day you spent with the masters at the park. "My lady, I am sorry if that information offends you..."

"My dear, there is nothing to offend me with. Aro asked me before he and the others took you out that day. We gave them our permission."

"He asked you? Then you knew we...my lady, it will never happen again. I'm with Marcus now. He's my heart and soul," you reassure both women.

"We were glad to hear that you two are mated. Dear Marcus deserves love after all this time," Dora said.

"And child, you need not call us 'my lady'. I'm Sulpicia and this is Athenodora, although she prefers Dora. Come, sit by us so we can discuss your gown for the ball."

The rest of the afternoon was spent with your new sisters, each of you trying to find the best fabric and dress design. You had wanted something in teal, but Sulpicia convinced you that crimson was your colour. The dress would be slightly tight around the torso, but full in the skirt. There were no sleeves, only off-the-shoulder straps that bared them and your toned upper arms. The chosen designs would be sent to Master Cervelli, who would get the basic gowns made, then he would come to the castle in person to take care of the final fittings.

It had been fun getting to know the wives, and you hope Marcus will find you beautiful when he first sees you ready for the ball.

OoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoOoO

A month or so later, after a lot of hard work, all the preparations had been completed. The audience hall had been decorated with candles and imported blood red roses. Refreshments had been set up on long tables, those for the human guests kept separate from those unique to the vampire guests.

The ballroom, usually closed up when not in use, was opened and aired out. Red and gold drapings now covered the walls. The candles in the bronze sconces were lit. A chamber archestra had set up in one corner and were practicing. Everything was ready, with guests set to arrive in an hour.

You had dressed in your gown, with Heidi helping you with your hair and make-up. When she was finished, you looked into the mirror, hardly recognizing yourself. "Thank you, Heidi. It's perfect. And you look gorgeous yourself. So will you be attending with anyone in particular?"

"Demetri asked me to be his partner, but we both enjoy dancing so agreed not to pair off exclusively." She flashed you a sparkling smile and a 'see you later', before leaving you alone.

You had just stood up from the desk slash dressing table, when Marcus entered the room. He had dressed elsewhere to allow you the privacy of your rooms to get ready. When you see him move to your side, you can't believe how beautiful he is. In a white shirt, bowtie and westcoat with tuxedo and tails, he looked handsome as sin. His hair was tied back with a leather cord, the way you liked it. He had even splashed a bit of human cologne on to fit in with the human guests. It made your nose twitch in interest since it was one of your favourite scents, Drakkar Noir.

"You look...absolutely fabulous, Marcus. I still can't believe what I've done to deserve you."

"I feel the same, my dear. After so much loneliness, I have found the perfect mate in you." Your crimson gown fits you in the right places while baring your shoulders. He leans down and kisses one shoulder, then your lips, careful not to muss your hair. Right now, Marcus would love to tear your gown off and spend hours pleasuring you, but he thinks that might only upset you. He holds out his hand, covered in a black cotton glove.

"Marcus, will you keep your hands bare? I much prefer that to gloves. No part of you is too cold for me. And if you're worried about the humans, you can shake their hands. They all know what you are."

To please you, your mate removes the gloves and drops them on the bed. Then he crooks his arm through which you slide your arm. One more kiss, and you both leave your chambers.

On arrival to the audience hall, you see people entering from the inside staircase in couples and small groups. There are faces you recognize as Marcus greets them, mostly the humans who run the city government. You smile in welcome at the mayor and the chief of police arriving with their wives, and the bishop who runs the Catholic Church here in Volterra. You'd had meetings with all of them since living here, finding them all friendly and aware of the vampires, grateful for their financial aid and protection. The Volturi knew they could be trusted as they had worked with their fathers and grandfathers before them.

Many faces you do not know, but when you see their red eyes, you know these guests are vampires. Confusion hits you when you saw a group of handsome people with golden eyes. Not red, yet they were obviously vampires.

"Marcus, who are they?" you ask, pointing at the group.

"That is the Olympic coven along with their cousins, the Denalis. Carlisle, the head of the family used to live here with us several centuries ago, before heading to the New World in America. He and Aro were once close friends."

"Once were?"

"A story for another time. Let me introduce you to them, my dear." He led you over to the well-dressed group. "Carlisle Cullen, welcome to you and your family. I wish to introduce you to my mate..."

"But she's human," interrupts a beautiful blonde woman.

"Rosalie!" Carlisle chides her. "She is one of our hosts, so be polite. I'm pleased to meet you," he says to you. "My wife, Esme, and my children, Emmett and his wife Rosalie, Jasper and his wife Alice, and Edward and his wife, Bella. Then there is Eleazar and his wife Carmen, Garrett and his wife Kate, and her sister Tanya, our cousins from Alaska."

"Children?" you ask, going back to Carlisle's prior remark.

"Adopted. My family, for all intents and purposes." The blonde coven leader nodded at you with a proud smile.

"Now it's my turn to apologise. Welcome, everyone. Carlisle, Aro is in the ballroom, if you wish to find him and say hello." The Cullens leave you and Marcus, all of them gazing around the rooms' splendour.

You exhale loudly, making Marcus glance at you. "I'm a terrible hostess. At least they're friends of Aro."

"Not all of them, my dear." Marcus leads you into the ballroom, the smile on his face almost invisible.

You see lots of people talking and mingling. Music fills the air but not so loudly you can't hear. Aro, on seeing you, grins broadly. He comes over to you both, his hand taking yours and kissing it.

"You're a vision, my dear. An absolute vision. I assume Sulpicia assisted you."

"Yes, both Sulpicia and Dora were of immense help. They were wonderful to me, Aro."

Aro turns to Marcus, saying, "Brother, you are a lucky man indeed. I'm going to continue my conversation with Carlisle before I ask Sulpicia to dance. Enjoy yourselves. You make a lovely couple." Aro left you, looking as if he were preparing an army for battle. He greeted everyone he passed, offered them refreshments, and in watching him, you noticed how talkative his hands were tonight.

Once you were alone, you smile and tell your mate, "We are a lovely couple, aren't we."

"Of course we are, my sweet." Moving to the middle of the floor, Marcus holds out his hand to you asking, "Will you do me the honour of a dance?"

"I thought you'd never ask." You let him lead you in a waltz, aware you know how to dance it. If the orchestra plays other music, knowing that many of the vampires are very old and remember music from other eras, you might not know the moves to those dances. He decides to play it by ear.

Marcus takes you in his arms, one hand holding yours, while your other rests on his shoulder. To the side, you see Caius dancing with Dora. They both look gorgeous and very much in love. Soon, Aro is with Sulpicia, having ended his talk with Carlisle, who was now dancing with his wife Esme. Everyone seemed to be having a marvelous time.

The music continues while Marcus slowly spins you around the floor. It's all so magnificent and perfect. You marvel at how your life has changed since the masters saved your life from a street robber what feels like only a short while ago. And your life will alter once again as soon as Marcus changes you into a vampire.

As the hour moves into early morning, the human guests partake of the catered food and drink set out for them, while the vampire guests enjoy drinking fresh blood from crystal goblets.

You enjoy a glass of red wine and a few tidbits, not feeling very hungry. Marcus drinks nothing. He prefers not to have the smell of blood on his breath when he is with you.

You and Marcus slip away from the crowd, going out to the large balcony. Marcus takes you into his arms and kisses you, almost bending you against the balcony railing. You respond to him, your arms around his waist. You eventually smile into the kiss, then pull back, looking up into his crimson eyes.

"This has been such a magical night, my love. And you're a wonderful dancer, so graceful. Thank you for choosing me from every woman on this planet."

"I did not choose you, dear one. Our hearts chose one another. We are just going along for the ride. Just know that I love you, my heart of hearts." His cool fingers caress your warm cheek, then he nuzzles your bare neck, kissing your sensitive skin.

You laugh and hug your mate tightly. "I love you, mio marito." The night has been heavenly indeed.

A/N : I listened to the "Volturi Waltz" from the Twilight soundtrack while writing the dance scene. Beautiful. I wish it was longer.

[cosmica-galaxy]

wait, thinking about that ask that talked about the live action grunts thing, gotta remember Player(In salty's au that is) is a streamer, imagine one of the boys accidentally passes by in the background of their stream and people start asking about it, chat asking whoever was that that walked by to come to the camera. and if one of them- say Deimos ends up showing his face- unaware Player was streaming- and people start freaking out about it because "WTF WHATS DEIMOS'S ACTOR DOING IN YOUR HOUSE PLAYER??" or worse, if a fan meets Player in the streets while accompanied by the boys- they'll freak out about it like OH SHIT ITS THE ACTORS. what do they do then?? just be like "oh no its just my roommates that look a lot like them haha and they're cosplaying ahaha" HJGFEWA WAIT FUCK IF SOME RANDOM THAT JUST RECOGNIZES THEM AS THE CHARACTERS- sorry my brain is going at 100 speed - Plague Anon [|87

Being a streamer has many perks.

You get to play games for a living, get paid by strangers, run events for charity, and never have to leave your home to socialize or deal with people in public. But there are some unexpected drawbacks from being a streamer. Getting doxxed, being messaged by needy creeps, and getting rather...unflattering fanart was part of the gig.

However, there was also just the reality that your camera captured more than just you sometimes. One day while you were streaming, you had forgotten to lock the door to your room as you usually do. A practice that became normal after you started getting regular visits from your beloved Nevadeans.

Today, Deimos just decided to randomly come into your room while you were live. You, being focused on the game you were playing, didn't take notice of the door to your streaming room opening and revealing the humanoid Deimos to the chat.

It took a text-to-speech bit alert to let you know that someone was in your room. Upon turning around and seeing Deimos, you nearly choked on your spit in shock.

The mercenary wasted no time hurrying over and getting into your business. Giving the cam a great shot of him looking at your screen and set up.

The chat starts going wild as you internally freak out.

"Hey, what's up with this gig? Is this how you've been seeing us--"

"SHH!! D, why are you here?!"

You hurriedly whisper as you try to push the merc back away from your cam with little success. The moment he spoke, the chat was flooded with surprise and heart emojis.

"OH! This is that 'Chat' you keep mentioning! What's up, chat!!" Deimos would happily respond to a flood of pog emojis and hearts. "Look, they all know my name! Isn't that cute?"

"DEI." You say sternly, finally getting the impulsive merc to look at you.

Completely unaware that Sanford had also entered the room and was currently standing over your left shoulder, in contrast to Deimos standing on your right. The chat took notice of him quickly and also started freaking out about Sanford.

One comment about Sanford and you turn around to look at the new arrival with wide eyes.

"Sanford! Look! This is Player's "chat" and they LOVE me!" Deimos gloats as Sanford looks at the screen as the Player hunches down and nervously flicks their gaze from the two men in the room to the computer and back again.

The chat goes nuts again with pogs and heart emojis with many of the chatters screaming in all caps for Sanford to flex. Sanford can't help the smile that creeps on his face as he watches, what appears to be numerous fans, BEG him to flex his muscles.

To which, Sanford obliges and it causes the chat to go full rabid.

"Hey! I can flex too!!" Deimos chimes in as he also starts flexing, fueling the thirst of the chat by a major amount.

Poor Player can only cover their face in the corner of the camera in exasperation as the two grunts-turned-human flex and show off in their cam to excite their audience. Each one soaking up the compliments thrown at them like sponges.

"OKAY, OKAY! TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES, WE'LL BE RIGHT BACK!!" You loudly shout before pressing a series of buttons, muting your mic, throwing up the 'technical difficulties: please hold' intermission, and closing the cover on your camera.

Then you turn to the two mercenaries in the room.

"What are you two doing?!? How am I going to explain this to the chat?? There's now going to be so many rumors that I live or know the live action cast for Madness Combat! When you aren't even the same people! This is WHY I tell you again and again to stay out of the streaming room when I'm live!"

You scold the two like children as you flick your gaze to the screen, seeing how upset chat had gotten after you booted them to the issue intermission.

"Oh...we're sorry, Player. I probably should've grabbed Deimos and pulled him out of the room when I had the chance." Sanford regretfully states, looking down in an ashamed manner.

"I'm not sorry. Did you SEE how my voice could make so many people melt? I got so many heart emojis! They love me~"

Deimos is then promptly whacked on the head by his taller partner as the two get into a slight argument.

You can only sigh and shake your head and pinch your nose.

How were you going to explain this one...?

Housing interdimensional beings was much harder than you originally thought...

[aceopmari]

The Akatsuki React to Your Winx Transformation Jutsu

Akatsuki Masterlist

Akatsuki Baddie Taglist: @ppg-artss @lovelygeniegirl1012 @mercymccann @kakeisumire @aoi-ajisai @mechmoucha @barbellina @nightingaleflow @bonchin

TW: Slightly suggestive

Hidan: Charmix

“It's the power of Charmix, your magical light…spread your wings and fly…”

* Rather than your power, Hidan was more interested in your skimpy attire.

* He was a drooling mess seeing you in your revealing glittery outfit that showed off your tummy and legs.

* “Damn babe! Are you a stripper?!” He grinned. You glared at him as you blushed. “NO!”

* “C’monnn! Take your bra off!” Hidan teased. Your face was now red. “This is not a bra!”

* He laughed. “Damn! I was just teasing! But whatchu got under that skirt, Doll? You got on something nice for me?”

* Hidan reached for your miniskirt but you slapped his hand away. “Don’t do it Hidan! Don’t you dare!” You warned. “Aw, c’mon gorgeous! Just one peek!” He laughed.

* Hidan didn’t stop after that as he made many attempts to look up your skirt, especially when you flew.

* He managed to succeed when he caught off you off guard. “The hell you are you wearing shorts underneath for? Show me the goods, mama!”

* “Hidan, you need a leash!” You hissed. He rolled his eyes. “Whatever, babe. Can you at least do something about that girly music shit I keep hearing when you transform? I’m sick of hearing ‘charm’ this and ‘charm’ that! That shits fucking annoying!” You couldn’t help but laugh. “Well too bad, Hidan!”

* Hidan loved your Enchantix Jutsu more. It was a more revealing than your last outfit, so he was able to get a nice pretty peek up your skirt!

* In addition to being hot as hell, your Fairy Dust came in handy whenever Hidan lost his head, as you would use it to put him back together.

* One might say that your abilities could arguably be enough to put a medical nin out of business.

* Hidan was just happy that his bad bitch was a sexy fairy lady.

Deidara: Believix & Mythix

“Believix, You're magical.

All you gotta do is believe in yourself…”

“Sparkling and invincible the power of

Mythix…Locked within the pages of the Legendarium World…”

* Deidara had tears in his eyes the moment he saw your Believix form for the first time. Oh he was believing alright! What kind of jutsu was that?!

* The petals on your skirt, those beautiful locks. Deidara thought you were a goddess.

* He loved how you were able to use nature related jutsus to make stuff grow. Your pretty pink flowers and his clay doves truly complimented one another and made true art.

* You’d trap an enemy with a large flower and Deidara would deliver the killing blow by dropping his clay bird causing an explosion of beautiful petals in the air.

* As you both flew on the large bird over the explosion, Deidara would cup your cheeks and look into your eyes lovingly. “My beautiful art flower~” he would then bring you into a kiss.

* Deidara loved your Mythix Jutsu Form too. The way you twirled with your wand as petals appeared around you was absolutely mesmerizing. “Beautiful…” he whispered.

* He also loved the music that played as you transformed. In fact the lyrics made him curious.

* “A magical dimension? Wha?”

* “Legendarium World? I wonder what that is, hm.”

* “Stories that once were fictional?” If there was a book that better explained your Jutsu, he just had to find it.

* “Doesn’t it get tiring from all that spinning?” Deidara asked.

* Your face went blue as you clutched your stomach. “Oh Dei Dei, you have no idea…” you groaned.

Sasori: Tynix & Onyrix

“Tynix Power... Shine, shine, shine…”

“Winx Club, go! On a mission again…Onyrix…”

* Your transformation was absolute art scenery porn for Sasori. Didn’t matter if he was in battle or alone with you, he’d stop everything just to watch you transform.

* Your Tynix Jutsu Form was aesthetically appealing. Sasori mentally got off to you twirling in the air as he watched crystals decorate your curves while diamonds fell around you.

* You giggled cutely as your hair flowed in a way that sent shivers down Sasori’s spine.

* Sasori stopped everything when he saw your Onyrix for the first time.

* The tight fitted jumpsuit, the light and colors, the dance and poses, the way your hands moved. Sasori was in love. This was true art. Almost erotic!

* Sasori loved this form so much that he became possessive of it. He forbade you from using your Onyrix Jutsu out in the open. The scenery porn was for him and him alone.

* Your form gave him inspiration for some new puppets!

* He’d make you transform when you two were alone. Sasori had a predatory smirk and a camera in his hands as he snapped shots of you dancing and posing in the triangle like void.

* Occasionally he would use his puppet strings to make you move in ways that he wanted.

* You started to get tired. “Sasori, how long do I have to pose like this?” You whined.

* “Patience doll,” Sasori purred as he used his puppet strings to make you slowly drag your hands down your curves. “…Now start dancing!”

Kisame: Sirenix

“I feel the power of the ocean

Connecting with the deepest part of me

Sirenix underwater motion…”

* Kisame was absolutely in love! He listened to the music with glee as he watched you transform.

* You could feel the power of the ocean connecting deep inside of you? Where have you been all his life?!

* “Damn!” He smiled.

* You looked so beautiful in your skintight blue wetsuit and super long ponytail. Your ability to control and become one with water was absolutely amazing.

* He grinned when you got into your final pose. “Well don’t you look cute?”

* You were more than that. Kisame had to restrain an overly excited Samehada who wanted to lick and taste your chakra.

* You took Kisame’s large hand in yours as you smiled. “C’mere…”

* The two of you dove into the ocean and swam together at rapid speeds, twirling around each other as you sang.

* Kisame even summoned his sharks and watched all of them dance with you as he smiled lovingly. “You’re just full of surprises aren’t you?”

* You smiled and swam towards Kisame, joining hands with him and twirling together once more before joining together for an underwater kiss as the sharks surrounding you both made a heart.

* Any enemies you’d come across, the two of you would surely drown them in your waves of love.

Itachi: Disenchantix

* He loved the dark colors on you. You looked absolutely enchanting. But he found the clothing to be rather…skimpy and would rather have you wear your teeny bikini in the bedroom for him if anything.

* Itachi wasn’t possessive, he was just thinking about practically. He didn’t want you easily getting stabbed in a vital spot.

* Now as for your power, he was amazed by your dark powers and chakra. Perhaps he didn’t have to worry after all.

* You and Itachi made yourselves well known in the shinobi world. His sharingan and your Disenchantix made you both a dark power couple.

* Even Sasuke himself was shitting himself when he saw you both together. He was determined to figure out your power in order to take you down if it means he could simply spite Itachi for causing him pain.

Kakuzu: Butterflix

“The power flows from the nature to me! Making me, Butterflix…”

* Kakuzu was a dirty old man, so he didn’t mind the slightly skimpy attire.

* He thought the bright colors of your dress were impractical as you could be easily seen by an enemy.

* Absolutely HATED how long your transformations and musical numbers lasted. The vibrations of the music was overwhelming all his hearts. Kakuzu was so annoyed that he nearly popped a blood vessel.

* “Okay, I’m ready! Where’s the enemy?” You asked. “I already took him down. You took too much time with your dainty dances…” Kakuzu said bluntly. You pouted. “It’s not dainty!”

* You decided to spite him one day while he was peacefully counting his money.

* You happily clapped along and danced to the music, as you winked and pointed at Kakuzu.

* Bonus if Tobi joins in with you.

* “Y/NNNNNNNNNNN!” Kakuzu roared.

* He charges towards you, but the invisible magical force hurled Kakuzu back against the wall. Kakuzu groaned as he continues to watch you dancing with Tobi. “Damn you, Y/N…”

* You giggled and make a little heart with your hands as you continued to dance. “Love you, too Kakuzu~”

A/N: Likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated. Also comment to be featured on the Taglist! REQUESTS are OPEN!

[bookgeekgrrl]

My media this week (31 Mar-6 Apr 2024)

lady constance is a seven foot tall badger and knows acab

📚 STUFF I READ 📚

pretty much nothing! It was a rough reading week! The first part of the week I was fairly consumed with the D20 I was watching & not reading much. Then I spent FIVE DAYS reading a little over half of a 258K fic before finally accepting that though it was pretty well written and not bad, I just wasn't into it and the thought of fighting thru another 120K was appalling, so I bailed.

and I did read about 20K of shorter stuff but nothing I want to shout out so.

📺 STUFF I WATCHED 📺

This Is Going To Hurt - s1, e1

QI - series S, ep 10-12

Death In Paradise - s11, e2-3

D20: Mice & Murder - "The Stabber of the Evening" (s9, e4)

D20: Mice & Murder - "The Eye of the Storm" (s9, e5)

D20: Mice & Murder - "Busted" (s9, e6)

D20: Mice & Murder - " I've Been Here the Whole Time" (s9, e7)

D20: Mice & Murder - "Outfoxed" (s9, e8)

D20: Mice & Murder - "The Belly of the Beast" (s9, e9)

D20: Mice & Murder - "Unfinished Business" (s9, e10)

D20: Adventuring Party - s4, e4-10 [Mice & Murder]

D20: Fantasy High: Junior Year - "Infernal Conflict" (s21, e13)

D20: Adventuring Party - "All Pulp, No Juice" (s16, e13)

🎧 PODCASTS 🎧

What Next: TBD - The Psychological Toll of Mars

Working - How a Magician Designs Original, Mind-Blowing Tricks

Hit Parade - The Bridge: Like a Revamped Stone

Worlds Beyond Number - WWW #7: Kahuna

WikiHole - Greek Easter (with Ellie Kemper, Josh Sharp and Aaron Jackson!)

Welcome to Night Vale #245 - Fridge-worthy

Worlds Beyond Number: Fireside - Fireside Chat for WWW ep7 "Kahuna"

Today, Explained - Making taxes less taxing

I Said No Gifts! - Tig Notaro Disobeys Bridger

⭐ Switched on Pop - Cowboy Carter: This Ain't Country

Consider This from NPR - Measuring The Economic Impact Of Baltimore's Port Closure

Pop Culture Happy Hour - Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter

⭐ Vibe Check - This Ain't Texas, This Is Vibe Check

Better Offline - Wikipedia Is All The Web Has Left ft. Molly White

Wiser Than Me - Julia Gets Wise with Bonnie Raitt

Short Wave - How To Make The Most Of Next Week's Solar Eclipse

Ologies with Alie Ward - Heliology (THE SUN/ECLIPSES) with India Jackson and Michael Kirk

99% Invisible #576 - Chambre de Bonne

Worlds Beyond Number - WWW #8: The Catch

Twenty Thousand Hertz+ - Untranslatable Words

Pop Culture Happy Hour - Ripley

Song Exploder - Shania Twain - You're Still The One

Off Menu - Ep 238: Katy Wix

Worlds Beyond Number: Fireside - Fireside Chat for WWW ep8 "The Catch"

Choice Words - Live in Fear or Love? (with Karamo)

What Next: TBD - Truth Social’s Rocky Week

Short Wave - The "Barcodes" Powering These Tiny Songbirds' Memories May Also Help Human Memory

⭐ Pop Culture Happy Hour - Monkey Man And What's Making Us Happy

The Atlas Obscura Podcast - Nevada Week: The Martin

Endless Thread - Nerd Fight

Strong Songs - "The Way" by Meshell Ndegeocello

Today, Explained - The Sephora kids

It's Been a Minute - Is DEI a slur now? Plus, control & basketball

Radiolab - The Moon Itself

Choice Words - Choices We Made: Stay Silent or Sue the Cops? (with Eric André)

Wait Wait… Don't Tell Me! - Chris Pine

Worlds Beyond Number - WWW #9: The King of Cups

Worlds Beyond Number: Fireside - Fireside Chat for WWW ep9 "The King of Cups"

Under the Influence - Cheeky Advertising

In Defense of Fandom - Season 2 Episode 1: What makes a TV ending?

Dinner’s on Me - Kristen Bell

Dinner’s on Me - Dax Shepard

🎶 MUSIC 🎶

Louis Jordan

Ozzy Osbourne

Meshell Ndegeocello

Cowboys + Queens

[electronikmilk]

Seeing God

i'm feral and absolutely sick to death of looking at this, so i'm finally posting it.

Manuel Aringarosa x f reader

Rating: 18+

Contains: Spanking, submissive Manuel, dom reader, also sex worker reader.

You sipped your coffee as you peeked through the curtains of your living room window. It was late, and most other lights in the houses along the street had gone out. You lived on the outskirts of Amsterdam in a little house on a quiet street, some twenty minutes by car from the city's hustle, bustle, and neon glow. 

Typically, you would be tucked away in bed, too, but you had a client scheduled for an incall session, and he wanted it done late at night for privacy. You understood this. Many others requested the same thing when they contacted you. 

This one, however, was...peculiar. 

Bishop Manuel Aringarosa of Opus Dei was now on your list of clients. 

You closed the curtain and went to nestle into the recliner by the loveseat, telling your Alexa to put on your Spotify playlist. You listened to Johnette Napolitano's husky voice begin to sing Mexican Moon. You enjoyed the seductive strumming of thick guitar strings as you reminisced about how Manuel ended up in your lap.  

Thinking of you underneath the Mexican moonlight...

Most of your clients emailed or texted you, but Manuel called out of the blue, nervously asking if booking him for an appointment was possible. He was polite and had a soothing voice with traces of a Spanish accent that you liked immediately. He made it clear right off the bat that he was, in fact, the head of Opus Dei in New York. You knew the order well, as did everyone else since they were ubiquitous and powerful. His honesty impressed you, but you had reservations about taking a man of the cloth as a client, especially someone of his rank. 

"I'm sorry, Father Aringarosa." You had told him, "But I don't think I can do that. Might I suggest the--"

"Señorita, por favor..." His voice strained with emotion before he cleared his throat, "My apologies, miss. But I...I need your help. Please hear me out. Just a few minutes of your time, please." 

Caught off guard, you went quiet. You could hear him sniffling on the other end. Was he crying? Feeling sorry for him, you said, "Alright, Father. Go on. Take your time." 

Aringarosa told you everything in a lengthy story that you listened to intently. He had confided in you that he had desires that had started to cloud his thoughts. Typical of a man of God, he described his interest as horrendously sinful. They had also become impossible to ignore in the past months, even with the comfort of praying and penance. You had asked what it was, and he hesitated to admit it. After some gentle coaxing and a long silence from Manuel, he said he wanted to see what it felt like to let go and give complete control to another person. But it was more than that; he wanted a living goddess to submit to. He wanted to be powerless and made to worship her by whatever means, even if it included him experiencing pain. 

Manuel treated the call like a confessional. Saying he had always craved something like this, even before entering the priesthood and taking his vows of celibacy. Suppressing it was difficult, and the only remedy was to throw himself headfirst into his ambitions within the church. It worked like a charm, and it sat dormant for the better part of twenty years. He eventually took head office at Opis Dei, and from there, all power over the order was in his hands, and he wielded it well. 

Despite his efforts, his desire to be powerless never entirely faded. It always lurked in the back of his mind, forced down but ready to bubble to the surface in solitude and his dreams. Undeterred, Manuel stubbornly told himself that he could manage it, that everything was fine, and went about his business. 

Then, it exploded to the surface once he took up extended residence in Amsterdam. 

The poor man, ashamed, admitted he visited the Red Light District the week he arrived (out of vestments, incognito, Manuel stressed). He claimed he didn't solicit any of the girls in the windows or wander into adult theatres or peep shows. But the temptation was there like a forbidden fruit beckoning Manuel to bite. Taste and know. 

"There were plenty of girls I would have paid to do unholy things to me." He confessed quietly. "And if I could, I would've submitted to every one of them..." 

He regretted setting foot in the district because it only enflamed the desire threefold, and by God did it burn. Day and night, it consumed him until he couldn't even be in the presence of the sisters and nuns he periodically came into contact with. The young novices, especially, drove him to the brink of flustered madness. Not fully covered like the cloistered nuns, he would feast upon the occasional glimpses of soft, girlish bangs and locks of wayward curls, the rounded curves of their calves exposed by their shorter skirts, their dainty hands, anything. He devoured it like a starving man. He would see himself kissing them in his mind, waiting upon them hand and foot, or allowing them to inflict pain so he may be rewarded and become their plaything. He saw himself without will, dignity, or purpose other than giving them pleasure. 

And no matter how much he willed the wicked craving away, it would not go. Manuel couldn't escape it, not even when he prayed alone within the stony walls of the nearby cathedral for his evening devotions, where he thought safety would be assured. It was not. The holy objects around him, the altar, the bloodied Christ on the cross, and the eyes of the Virgin, did nothing to stave off his lust. Prayers faltered, then died on his lips as fantasies danced in his head. The rosary hanging uselessly in his hand, he would look at the altar and think about what it would be like to worship the marvelous curves of the girls he all but ogled upon it. He wondered what it would be like to be bent over it by them and whipped into absolute submission. 

Thinking such thoughts in a holy place horrified him. 

Manuel's voice wavered when he explained how he fled and threw himself onto his knees once in his apartment, praying to God for forgiveness and purification. He prayed for his thoughts to be taken away and purged, but no matter how much he invoked God, Jesus, Mary, and the saints, he felt they weren't listening and feared he was forsaken. And even in these prayers, it took everything he had to focus on his lamenting instead of succumbing to the intense lure of the Red Light District and the beautiful women that danced for his attention through the windows and doorways. The fruit, now candied, demanded consumption. His mouth watered for it, but he couldn't, absolutely couldn't, be seen on those streets again.  

Manuel had to work up the courage to call when he found an online advertisement for your incall erotic services. He spent several evenings debating whether he should do it, his soul in shreds, longing for mending. The bishop almost begged you for help. He feared he would leave the order altogether if he didn't deal with his crisis. He needed to do it once. Just once. Money was no object. Hell, you didn't even have to have fuck him if you didn't want to. He was desperate. 

You felt overwhelming sympathy for the man, so you booked a session for the following week. After briefly discussing what was wanted and your set of rules and requirements, Manuel said he would bring everything he needed to act out his fantasy; you only needed to provide the atmosphere and a small table strong enough to hold your weight.

Manuel showed up to his arrangement out of his vestments, no cassock, no priest's collar, not even a crucifix, just a sweater, pressed slacks, and dress shoes. Incognito. As you should have suspected. A black Volkswagen Beetle was parked a block down the road. 

He was a handsome, somewhat portly man somewhere in his fifties. He had thick eyebrows and large brown eyes with an intense gaze. He was tall, too, reaching over six feet, appropriately imposing for a bigwig bishop. But despite his height and age, he seemed anxious standing outside your door, tugging at the collar of his sweater, and not looking you in the eye as he greeted you. He held a leather suitcase at his side.

"Hello, Father." You said, smiling kindly, "Come in. How was your drive? Not too hard to find the place, I hope?"

"Please, 'Manuel' is fine, my dear." He said, stepping into your home and taking off his shoes. "And the drive was fine, thank you. No trouble at all." 

"Oh, good. Would you like some tea? Or coffee? I have a lovely cream of Earl Grey that I'm trying. I can make you a cup if you like." 

"No. No, thank you." He replied, then took a deep breath to calm himself, "I'm sorry to be rude, but may we just--ah, may we just get to it? I don't want to take up too much of your time." 

"Of course. Please, come with me." You nodded, then gestured for Manuel to follow you into the finished basement, where you converted the unused study into a playroom. Manuel grabbed his suitcase and followed you down the carpeted stairs into a sizeable lilac-colored space. Black and white photos of naked, bound men and women hung on the walls, framed in intricately carved frames like fine art. Erotic tapestries draped parts of the wall, adding to the luxurious feel with a purple rug. An array of tools used for sensual torture, whips, paddles, ball gags, leather masks, and other toys hung on the far wall. Then there was your prized possession sitting front and center: a five-foot-tall alabaster statue of a nude woman with long flowing hair cascading down her back—a nondescript goddess figure with open arms and a calm face with closed eyes. An art-collecting client gave her to you quite a few years ago. She was cute, and you were fond of her. 

As discussed, you had pushed a coffee table into the center of the room, covering it with a white tablecloth like an altar. You situated the table facing the statue so it looked like the figure would be presiding over the session. Manuel had said he wanted the space set up like a temple, so you dimmed the lights and lit pillar candles around the room. Though the candles and lighting alone had seemed enough, you went further and took fake ivy and flowers to decorate your statue. You draped the ivy around her body, then twisted the stems of the flowers together to make a crown and placed it on her head. To finish off, you plucked the heads off the extra flowers and sprinkled them around the base at her feet, just for extra oomph. 

The statue's serene face seemed almost alive in the candlelight, like she was merely meditating. Looking at her, you were happy with your setup. 

"I don't have many religious things in my supplies, so I had to make do with what I had. I hope you don't mind." You said. When Manuel entered the room, he looked at the tools, the photos, and the statue, staring at her in amazement. 

"No. It's perfect, thank you. Quite beyond my expectations, actually..." He said, his voice quivering for a second. His head tilted then, and he seemed to think, suddenly looking uncomfortable, troubled. You noticed he gripped the suitcase handle tight, his knuckles becoming white. His eyes became a little glassy, and you worried he might start crying. 

"Are you alright?" You inquired and reached out to touch his arm. As soon as your fingers made contact, he jumped, snapping out of his thoughts. He nodded.

"Yes..." He said, then composed himself by clearing his throat and putting down his suitcase. "Yes, I'm fine. I'm sorry, I-I suppose I'm just nervous."

"Don't apologize, hon. I understand. But don't worry, alright? I'll take good care of you, and if you want to stop, use the safeword like we discussed." You said, squeezing Manuel's arm. Manuel didn't speak for a moment, then he whispered.

"Do you believe in God? In sin?" 

You blinked at him, taken aback. 

No, absolutely not, you wanted to say. You never believed in the stuff. It was too limiting. Too old-fashioned and arbitrary. Why subject yourself to a religion and a god that frowns upon everything you ever do, no matter how harmless it is to others? Especially in such issues as sex, gender, and love. 

But you thought that conversation hardly mattered at the moment, and it appeared Manuel wasn't looking for your view on the matter anyway. You could see him shaking. He was scared, probably stalling, and it saddened you to see it. It must have been hard for him to lead such a life as a holy man when he had this craving that lifelong tradition taught him was disgusting, even evil, when it wasn't. While his position in the church and lifelong dedication to scripture and faith were admirable to a degree, the fact of the matter was that he was just a man. A man with desires. Natural, human desires that were far from evil. And it must have been challenging to put everything aside to indulge in those cravings. The weight of the guilt must have been excruciating. 

"No. I believe in human nature." You said softly. "But does that really matter right now? I'm not here to judge you, Manuel. It's not my place. And after everything you told me, I just want to help you. I don't think what you want to do is sinful. It's just sex, that's all. It's not hurting anyone, and we're both consenting, right? So I think it's all disco." 

Manuel gave a pained smile and nodded. "Thank you. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked that. I just..." He trailed off, shrugging helplessly.

"It's alright. Just relax and enjoy yourself, okay?" 

"Alright." 

"Are you sure you still want to do this?" You asked.

"Yes." He said, wiping the corners of his eyes. He sighed and slumped his shoulders in what looked like defeat. Surrender. You felt like he wanted to say more, but he didn't. You knew the words anyway; you could see it in his eyes. I need to. 

You nodded at him tenderly. Then he opened the suitcase to hand you a mantilla-style veil made from red lace. He had instructed you to wear it with whatever you wanted but no shoes so that he may kiss your feet. 

"If you don't mind, please change in the other room and come back in. I want to get everything just right." 

"No problem." You winked and turned to leave the room. 

You entered the bathroom and stripped down to nothing except black crotchless panties and thigh-high stockings. It delighted you that you could choose whatever you wanted. It was a rare occurrence since many clients were very particular about play attire. 

Manuel didn't ask for much when you asked what he wanted to enjoy during his session, just no shoes, the environment, and your power to dominate him. Otherwise, you could do whatever you wanted, a simple man with simple needs. 

You selected a black PVC sheath dress with full-length sleeves that you purchased last week. It was skin-tight, and you had to smooth it until it was cleaving to you like a glove. Luckily, it was extremely short, barely covering your ass so you could move freely. It was also lowcut with the closing zipper in the front, and you left it slightly open at the top for just a glimpse of cleavage. 

As you got ready, you started to smell incense smoke from the other room. It smelled familiar, something your old roommate used to burn back in university, earthy, sweet, and soft. Frankincense. Holy smoke, they liked to call it. You smiled, enjoying the smell as you beheld your reflection when you pinned the veil Manuel gave you into your hair, and you couldn't help but feel prideful in your appearance. You hoped Manuel would like it, too, as you exited the bathroom and re-entered the playroom. 

Ghostly wisps of fragrant smoke swirled around the room, dancing around the flickering candle flames, creating an illusion of holiness. A temple of sacred sex and play. Now, that was a church meeting worth going to.

Manuel knelt on the floor, as far away from the objects and table as possible, clasping a rosary. He spoke his prayers softly under his breath. He didn't notice you come in, and you thought it would be rude to interrupt, so you watched him as he prayed. A bottle of wine was on the table, and a gold engraved chalice was beside it, gleaming bright even in the dim light. Beside him was a red heart-shaped dish with the smoldering resin, which you thought looked out of place and fit right in. It was almost funny seeing it used by someone like him. Finally, after a few moments of silent praying, he crossed himself.

"In nomine patris, et filii, et spiritus sancti..." He whispered, kissed the crucifix, and put it into his pocket. 

"Manuel?" 

Manuel's head snapped up. As soon as his eyes landed on you, they widened, and he took a sharp breath, immediately averting his gaze. The tips of his ears turned red. 

"Manuel, are you ready?" You asked, approaching the table. 

"Yes..." Manuel whispered and started to rise. At that instant, you shifted into professional mode. 

"No." You said firmly and sat upon the altar. "You stay on your knees. And yes, what? Is that any way to address me?"

He froze momentarily, then went back onto his knees without protest. 

"No, ma'am. I'm sorry." 

"You are to address me as 'my Lady' and obey my every word when you're in this room." 

"Yes, my Lady." 

"Good boy," you smiled and beckoned him over, opening your legs slightly to give him a peak of your sex. Manuel bit his lip, swallowing thickly. "Come to me. Greet me properly." 

Manuel blushed but obeyed, crawling over and stopping at your feet. You lifted your foot, and Manuel leaned down and kissed it. He did it slowly, seeming to enjoy the action despite his shyness. 

He pressed his lips to the top of your foot and the tips of your toes. They were tender, cautious pecks that bordered on hesitation, though he didn't stop. 

"Aw, what a darling you are." You cooed. You reached down to caress the back of Manuel's neck. "Such a sweetie..." 

He pressed his lips harder, more fervently at your touch and words, letting out quiet moans. 

His shoulders relaxed, and he allowed himself to yield. He whispered between kisses now, silent praises that you couldn't quite hear. 

His tongue darted out, licking your toes, and then he sucked them through the stocking. You giggled at the sensation of the tongue tickling you and let him continue until he dared to bring his lips up to your shin. 

"Enough." You said, putting your foot back down. Manuel tried to follow it, but you leaned over and gripped his thick, dark hair. He winced as you tugged his head back up. "No, no, no, you do as I tell you. I'm your mistress and goddess now. You have no will here, just like you wanted, and I expect you to be a good slave. Do you understand?"

Manuel only whimpered and nodded in response, his eyes looking at you, half-lidded, unblinking, and clouded with lust. You let go of his hair and told him to kneel up. He did so immediately, keeping his arm at his sides. Excellent position, you thought. Already, his arousal was evident. His erection was straining against the material of his pants, standing at full attention. Good response, too. 

"Repeat what I just said to you." You commanded. 

 Manuel shook, and his lips pressed together. He said nothing, and you frowned in disapproval. His cheeks burned pink, and his breath hitched under your gaze. Then, suddenly, you slapped his face hard enough to sting and get his attention. He gasped and looked a bit shocked. His erection, on the other hand, was stiffer than ever. 

"Speak, Manuel. Answer me." You said, taking firm hold of his chin. He seemed to be on the verge of an outburst, barely containing his squirming as he finally whispered,

"Y-you're my mistress, my goddess...I have no will. And I will be a good slave for you." 

You pinched his cheek, "Good boy."

Satisfied with his bodily response and knowing he was okay to continue, you gestured for Manuel to rise. 

"Stand up and take off your clothes. All of them." 

The blush on Manuel's face deepened as he stood, backed up, and pulled off his sweater, and there was his bare chest. Cute nipples, perhaps a little pale, but you could easily give them some color. You smiled at the prospect of it. 

He had a soft, rounded belly, though he was pretty solid in the arms and broad in the shoulders. Combined with his height, you imagined he could throw you aside and overpower you without much effort. 

You felt a rush of excitement commanding this man. And making him worship you made your sex stir. 

Now his pants were down, and he was pulling off his socks. He hesitated briefly with his boxers, his fingers trembling at the waistband. He looked so virginal. The flush in his cheeks was lovely, and you wanted to kiss that rosy face. 

"Boxers, too." You said, making sure to sound monotone. It wasn't good to be kind to him too soon. He had to earn it. "I want to see what you look like." 

He glanced at you timidly before obeying. His cock stood rigid, surprisingly big and thick, the head shining and turning red. It was a decent organ, one of the nicer ones you've seen. 

You stood as well and took a step towards him. You thought you saw him shrink back, saw a flicker of fear in his eyes. It immediately faded when you reached out and touched his chest, running the tips of your fingers down until you reached his stomach. You pressed both your hands into it, feeling the warm softness of his flesh, kneading it, enjoying it. Manuel sucked in a breath. His cock jumped when you pinched and squeezed him for your delight. You smiled, watching his attractive features work to express his bliss. 

When you moved on and touched the head of his cock with your thumb and forefinger, Manuel gasped and involuntarily drew back. 

"Hold still." You said, glancing up at him. "And put your hands behind your back. I want to examine you."

"Yes, my Lady," Manuel said meekly and obeyed. His head lowered, and he couldn't meet your gaze. He sighed and moaned when you took his cock in your hand and stroked it slowly from tip to base, feeling it harden even more in your grasp. His hips jerked, and his sighs became gasping when you griped a bit harder and stroked him faster. All the while, you watched his face. His eyes closed, and his mouth fell slightly open. You wondered if this was what rapture looked like, and you felt a jolt of pleasure seeing it. 

After a moment of teasing, his hips began to rock against your hand, his breathing heavier, on the verge of panting. 

You felt his cock twitch and become wet with precum. 

"My Lady..." He gasped. "I-I'm close..."

You stopped stroking and allotted a series of spanks to his chest, striking his nipples. The slaps were hard and loud, and Manuel cried out. 

"Not yet," You crooned and pinched his nipples, pulled them, tweaked them until he exclaimed in deep moaning breaths, "You can only come when I tell you to."

He begged with his body and a groan but tried to control it. His back arched, and his entire frame writhed. His lips spilled quiet pleas between moans. He gasped when you released his nipples and flicked them. His nipples awakened, becoming hard like bits of stone there, and you smiled, circling your thumbs around them. It drew enticing grunts from Manuel, each accompanied by a thrust of his hips. 

His eyes opened once he caught his breath and looked at you, showing complete submission in their softness. 

"Ooh, that was quick, wasn't it," You teased, "you're like a virgin, almost coming before we even get started." 

He turned red, and you giggled. 

"You're cute," you said, your hands returning to rub his stomach, "I bet those nuns you talked about want to fuck you, dominate you like I am right now. And I bet you'd enjoy that, wouldn't you? You'd obey them like a little puppy." 

"Yes, my Lady. I would." Manuel said without pride, without dignity. "I'd be devoted to them." 

"You show your devotion to me first." You said sternly and continued to fondle his softness while you pondered what he could do for you. You recalled how he described being bent over and whipped over the church altar, and it sounded like a pretty good idea. You took your hands away from Manuel. His dreamy eyes watched you, waiting for your word. 

You stepped aside, pointing at the table. 

"Bend over your goddess's altar."

As Manuel went to obey, his hands shaking uncontrollably, you continued in a calm but steely voice:

"I'm going spank you, Manuel. And I'm going to do it hard. But I don't think you'll mind one bit. After all, that's exactly what you want, right?"

On his knees and leaning over the table, Manuel nodded his head.

"Do you want my hand or the paddle? I'll be nice and give you the choice."

"Your hand, my Lady, please." He said without thought. You gave an approving hum.

"Good pick. I'm glad you're making this fun for me. I love working with my hands." 

Manuel shivered when you got down on your knees behind him. You ran your hand over his broad back, prodding around his hips and thighs. The flesh there was soft, too. You grinned, hearing him exclaim as you grabbed his buttocks with both hands and squeezed and kneaded it like you did his belly. 

"You're so soft." You said, then slapped his ass playfully, "I like it. I believe that bodies like yours are the best to play with. You ought to be proud of that, you know."

"Thank you, my Lady." Manuel whispered, barely audible, "I'm happy I can please you." 

"Oh, you're gonna have to speak up, pet. Or I won't be able to hear you over this." You reeled back your hand and slapped his right buttock hard, catching him by surprise. The force of the slap caused his hips to sway, and a cry flew from his mouth before he could stop it. The handmark was white at first, then bright red.

You gave the mark a barrage of weaker slaps that caused Manuel to gasp and cry out as if you used full force. When you switched sides, you spanked him hard again. Manuel cried aloud and writhed on the table. He clutched at the cloth and tried to silence himself by burying his face in the crook of his arm. It proved futile, his exclamations growing louder with each continuing strike, a whine or two peppered in like a delectable seasoning. 

You looked up at your goddess statue while you spanked Manuel. She looked so alive then, and it was a shame she wasn't getting any attention.

You then stopped and massaged Manuel's sore flesh. His entire body shivered, and his hips undulated in a vain attempt to gain some stimulation. His breathing was ragged, and he whimpered as soon as your blows ceased. 

"Head up, Manuel," You said, "Look up at my statue. Take her in." 

Manuel immediately obeyed. You heard him sniffle, and his hand went to wipe his face. 

"She's pretty, isn't she." 

"Yes, my Lady." His voice was uneven and shaky. "She's beautiful."

"I think she might be a bit lonely, wouldn't you agree?" You took your hands away and stood, "Go and kiss her. Kiss her mouth, then her breasts and feet. Then I want you to fetch me the flowers on the floor. Use your teeth to bring them." 

"Y-yes, my Lady." He said and went into his hands and knees, commencing his task. 

You leaned down to give his bottom a quick slap as he went and laughed when he yelped and scurried towards the statue. 

You rounded the table and sat upon it, facing Manuel. You took the bottle of wine and chalice, opened the twist top, and filled your cup high. It was red and sweet-smelling, and you thought of sacramental wine when you took a sip. You licked your lips. The blood of Christ tasted expensive. 

At the feet of the statue, Manuel knelt up to press his lips to the cold, stony mouth twice before descending to the breasts. He kissed each nipple gently. You felt a warmth rise in your breasts when you heard him moan and caught his hips twitching at the act. Finally, he kissed her feet. Despite his stature, he lowered himself slowly and quietly with the gracefulness of a cat. With his face flaming, Manuel took a flower between his teeth and turned to you. You moved back and spread your legs, tapping the area in front of your sex.

"Meow," You called to him, "Here, kitty, kitty," 

Manuel came to you with his head bowed and dropped the flower on the table. His large brown eyes flicked up at you as he kissed your knee, seeking your approval with a questioning look. You beamed at him for being so good. Kindness was now due. 

You reached down, cupped his cheek, and lovingly stroked it with your thumb. Manuel took your affection with a shuddering sigh. 

"You're doing good, Manuel." You said and kissed his head. His hair was soft against your face and smelled clean with the fading spice of cologne. 

"Thank you, my Lady." He kissed your knee again. 

"Alright, off you go." You ruffled his hair. Manuel nodded, then turned to bring another blossom. His bottom was still red, and you watched it, taking another sip of wine. 

Manuel placed the flowers before you one by one, each time planting a devoted kiss on your inner thigh, coming closer and closer to your sex. But before he could kiss your pubis, you brushed the flowerheads onto the floor and placed the wine bottle between your legs. Now blocked, Manuel sat on his heels. He pressed his lips to the bottle almost desperately, breathing hard, lapping his tongue on the glass, and mewling at the denial. 

You caressed the bottle's neck in long, slow strokes like it was a phallus, looking down at him, a cheeky smile playing on your lips. Manuel pulled back and brought his gaze to you once he composed himself. His lips were wet with saliva. The cupid's bow was wonderfully curved, and the just as shapely bottom lip trembled. Lips weren't always something you often noticed in men, but now that you saw them, you loved them. 

You touched your fingers to the mouth, pinching the plump lips and probing between them with your thumb. 

Manuel opened his mouth, letting you stick your thumb into it. When the eager lips closed on it, you withdrew it slightly, then pushed it back in. You did this repeatedly until Manuel started to moan and suck it. Your lust rose in pitch, feeling his tongue swirl around your thumb, and your nipples were hardening beneath the tight material of your dress. 

You let a sigh pass your lips, and before you could get lost in the moment, you withdrew your thumb from Manuel's mouth completely. His breathing was uneven, and his cock twitched between his trembling, parted legs. You rubbed your thumb against his lips.

"Such a hungry little mouth," You said, taking your hand away and pushing the bottle towards him, "Have those pretty lips ever sucked a cock before?" 

Manuel shook his head. He bit his lip, and it appeared he already knew what you would command. 

"Do you want to please your goddess?" 

"Yes." 

"Then you know what to do." You said, lifting the chalice to continue sipping the wine you had poured, "Do it slowly, for my pleasure." 

Manuel breathed deep, then licked the length of the bottle's neck before he took it into his mouth. He caressed it with his tongue and lips awkwardly. At first, Manuel didn't take the glass shaft very far. He struggled, gagging and coughing when he attempted to take it further at your urging. He gasped but didn't pull away from the bottle, continuing to try to suck it after taking a gulp of air. 

"Breathe through your nose." You said, petting his hair, and he stopped retching once he followed your instructions, "There you go." 

Soon, Manuel fell into a rhythm, his head bobbing up and down on it. Every once in a while, he probed the bottle's mouth with his tongue, teasing it for you, then sucking it again with sensual enthusiasm. 

All you did was take up the chalice and drink, lust curling tight inside you. You felt your sex grow wet upon hearing Manuel groan around the bottle. His hips stirred, but his hands didn't dare touch you or himself. The submissive bishop stopped when you said that was enough. 

But Manuel didn't wait for you to give him another order. Instead, he threw his arms around you and kissed all over your chest, their presence lingering and frantic. His fingers dug into you, all but clawing as he kissed the tops of your breasts, licking at the pillowy flesh. You gasped when a hand pawed at your breast and squeezed hard. 

Manuel ascended to your neck and jaw at your utterance, kissing and nuzzling his face there. His breath was hot, panting. The feeling of his mouth kissing and suckling the skin sent shivers up your spine. You arched your back and set down your cup, narrowly avoiding spilling it.

"Manuel-!" You exclaimed. You grasped at his hands, meaning to calm him. His entire body stiffened when you touched him. He let out an anguished sound and ripped himself away, bursting into tears. However, instead of breaking the fantasy, he hurried to kiss the hem of your veil in reverence. 

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry," Manuel whispered into the fabric, into your ear, "Please punish me, my Lady. I deserve it. Please, please..." 

You froze, stunned by what just happened. 

Again, Manuel didn't dare touch you; he only clutched the veil, wracked by quiet, hiccuping sobs. You felt a tear drop onto your chest and another, and for a moment, you had no idea what to do or say. The large man trembled before you like a lost child, sniffling, his shoulders drooping low. It unleashed an overwhelming sense of pity in you. Poor thing. 

"Manuel..." You said, and slowly, very slowly, you took him by the shoulders and had him sit on his heels. Then, you put the wine bottle aside. His sobbing had calmed once you had him kneeling.

The look on his face betrayed his silence, his cheeks stained with tears that continued flowing, and his beautiful eyes twinkled in the warm candlelight—two deep pools of misery and adoration.

You brushed his hair from his forehead, then cupped his cheek, which he leaned into, shaking. 

"Do you want to keep going?" You asked gently. "Do you remember the safeword?" 

"Yes," He sniffled. Then, without skipping a beat, "Please. Don't stop." 

His deep voice was soft, without doubt or fear. His complete submission shifted into complete trust, and it felt good to have it. 

Manuel was so consumed with red-hot desire that he once again spoke, this time with great eagerness, "Slap me again, my Lady. Like earlier." He blushed at his bold request, then bowed his head in apology.

You laughed lightheartedly.

"You like it rough, huh? Let me see your cheek then."

He obeyed and braced for your strike. You pulled back your hand and slapped him hard. The resounding crack jerked his head slightly, and he hissed in pain mixed with pleasure. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. You struck him again without warning, and he whimpered. You took it further by grabbing a fistful of his hair, pulling him to kneel up, and kissing him hard. You bit his lip. He gasped, and when his mouth opened, you stabbed your tongue into it. He returned the kiss, his lips so soft and velvety against yours. 

He moaned loudly when you yanked his head back and kissed his Adam's apple and jaw. You bit at him, licked at the salty skin, then smacked his chest and belly until he was pink. Manuel writhed, imploring you for more.

"Harder! Please!"

But you let go of his hair and sat him on his heels again. It surprised you how much he enjoyed the pain, how he was greedy for it. If he wanted it harder, you were happy to oblige. You looked over at the wall, eyeing the paddles and thinking about which one to use. 

Manuel protested, and you shooshed him, giving him a sharp look. 

"It's not over yet. Be patient." You said curtly and frowned, though you felt no anger. It was all for show. Manuel bit his lip and nodded, looking like a scolded puppy anyway. 

You took up the chalice, filled it to the top, and held it to his lips. 

"Here. Drink. We'll keep going in a second." You said, petting his hair. Manuel nodded, and after he drank his fill, just a couple of gulps, you gripped his chin and kept his mouth to the chalice when he tried to move away. "Nope. Keep drinking. Don't stop until there isn't a drop left." 

You tiled the chalice higher and higher, at the same time leaning Manuel's head back. Despite Manuel swallowing as much as he could, the liquid overflowed, spilling down the corners of his mouth and over his chin. Wine dribbled down his neck, chest, and belly, streaking like blood. He continued to drink as much as possible, and you only released him when the chalice was empty. You tossed it aside. Manuel coughed and gasped for air. He thanked you, wiping his mouth, then waited for your command obediently. Much of the wine got onto the rug, but that didn't bother you. The wet vacuum would get that right out once the session was over. In the meantime, you ordered Manuel to crawl over to the wall and fetch you a leather heart-shaped paddle.

Manuel trembled in either fear or excitement when he delivered the paddle and leaned down to kiss your feet. You received them, lifting your foot to his lips. They were sweet and feverish, becoming even more so when you tested the paddle against your palm. Perfect. 

"Lay on your back." You ordered.

Manuel did so with a nod and a "Yes, my Lady" and spread out on his back. His body stretched to its full length, though he did attempt to keep his legs bent until you cracked the paddle against your palm again and gave him a sharp order to spread them. You got up and moved over to him, relishing how his eyes held yours and his lips quivered. 

You stepped over and mounted him, deliberately straddling his hips. His entire body shivered under you as soon as you moved to adjust comfortably. You wondered if he felt how wet your sex was, how hot it was because of him, or if he was too lost in his passion to notice. Manuel bit his lip hard and kept his hands to his sides. The flesh on his chest was soft, too, making it ideal for you to do what you pleased. You set down the paddle, reached down with both hands, grabbed, and played with his pectorals like you would a pair of breasts. Manuel struggled to contain himself and winced when you squeezed tight. 

"Lovely. It's a shame I didn't break out any of my nipple clamps." You purred, still playing with the flesh, "They'd make you look so pretty." 

You took hold of and stretched both nipples and snapped them, then did it again. You played with them and rubbed them. Manuel couldn't keep still under you or stay quiet. His hips squirmed, rocking slightly without meaning to, sucking in a shuddering breath and unleashing a whispered string of "fuck"s as you tweaked and squeezed them. 

"Do you like that?" You asked, taking hold of his nipples and twisting them almost cruelly. Manuel arched his back and groaned in pleasure. 

"Yes, my Lady!" He cried. 

You laughed and released him.

"I didn't think you would be such a slut for pain. Nothing wrong with that, though. It's very endearing." 

You took up the paddle and showed it to him.

"So, what do you think, Manuel? Is this fine enough to inflict the pain you want so badly?"

Manuel kissed it as an answer.

You smiled and brought down the paddle on his chest in a series of loud spanks. First, you struck one side, then the other. Manuel gasped and cried aloud upon impact, unable to contain it. His chest bloomed a charming shade of pink, leaving marks vaguely shaped like hearts, much to your delight. His nipples hardened to knots, and his face tightened in pain. He struggled not to thrash by digging his fingers into the rug and throwing his head from side to side.  

"Come on, Manuel, arch your back for me. I want your tits raised for the paddle." And on you spanked once Manuel obeyed, his chest flushing crimson and heaving as he gasped and cried. 

You tormented him further by concentrating your blows to one side. At the same time, you bunched the flesh of the other pec and kneaded it roughly. Manuel grew louder, and his body twisted when you switched sides. His face was the perfect picture of anguish and ecstasy.

Then, he was undone when you paused and leaned down to suckle upon the abused nipples, rocking your hips against him as you did so. He cried against clenched teeth as you licked his nipple and bit it playfully. Manuel was in a frenzy when he let out a choked sob between desperate, keening moans. His hands clamped your shoulders, his back arching.

"Mango!" He wailed the safeword. 

Immediately, you stopped and straightened. Manuel stayed on his back, shaking, eyes closed, his breath coming in ragged pants. His dark lashes were matted with tears. You wanted to lean down and taste them, but you refrained and rubbed his belly while waiting for him to recover, praising and soothing him. The skin was smooth and hot under your hands, and you bit your lips as you let your eyes wander over him. Beautiful, beautiful skin. You trailed your hand down and let it brush over the head of his cock. 

Manuel's eyes, softened and glassy, opened with heavy lids and gave a faint, supplicating moan as he looked up at you. 

You've been a wonderful pet this evening, Manuel." You said. "Do you want your goddess to reward you?"

Manuel hissed and moaned under you. 

"Ohh, yes." His large hands gripped your thighs, "Yes, please." 

You raked your fingernails along the shaft, lightly pinching the tip before taking it with a firm hand and stroking it. The long-awaited stimulation almost seemed too much for poor Manuel. He squeezed his eyes shut and let out a throaty growl that quickly dissolved into a loud whimper. His hips moved to meet your strokes with the shamelessness of a whore. Powerful fingers dug into the tender flesh of your thighs, though it was not enough to hurt you. In fact, you liked it. Your lust pooled down to your groin, and Manuel's sensual moans and gasps made your nipples throb unbearably. It took a lot to resist the urge to fuck his brains out, but the condoms were upstairs, and retrieving them would spoil the mood. And you lived by a golden rule: no condom, no fun. So, no fun it was, at least for tonight. 

You stopped stroking and slapped the organ, drawing out a surprised but pleasured cry. 

"You're pretty well endowed," You said, massaging his balls now. "It's a shame I didn't bring any condoms down here since I changed my mind about fucking you. But we'll have to wait until next time, won't we?" 

Manuel whined as if to lament this fact. He looked up at you, his gaze like a drunken man's. His hazy eyes lowered and lingered on your breasts. His hands moved to your waist, no doubt wanting to trail higher, and he whispered the word "please" over and over, like a mantra, staring at your chest all the while. 

"Are they pretty?" You asked. You touched the zipper of your dress.

"Yes." He said, breathless. His hands squeezed at you. Amused by his desperation, you unzipped just enough to expose them. 

"Suck on them." You said, pushing them out proudly. 

Manuel bolted upright as soon as the words left your lips, and his mouth fixed over your right nipple hungrily, almost aggressively. His hands clawed at your back as he suckled, releasing deep moans against your skin. You shivered in pleasure. A small moan escaped your lips when Manuel latched upon your other breast, sucking just as hard.  

Your body felt electrified and quickly brimmed with sensation. You sighed as Manuel nibbled at your nipple, kissed it, and licked it. His cock pulsed like a heartbeat against you, and you slipped your hand down to grip it again and stroke it. Your hand worked quickly this time, squeezing tight so a drop of precum dribbled from the tip, making the shaft slicker in your hand as you caressed him. Manuel pulled away from your chest and moaned aloud. You didn't slow your hand or stop, stimulating Manuel until his cries became hoarse and unmodulated. 

He slipped his arms around you and pulled you close, though you could still work his shaft. His breaths came in short, frantic pants on your neck. 

"Sí, sí," He moaned. "Fuck, yes."

Now intent on your task, you stroked him faster, enjoying how the warm fluid coated your fingers and palm. 

"Come for me." You said. Manuel's whole body stiffened and clutched you close, crying out in ecstasy. His arms crushed you to his chest, and he buried his face between your breasts as the orgasm rolled through him. His cock convulsed in your grip, and semen erupted from it, spilling over your hand and onto his stomach. Manuel's voice broke at the height of passion, and his moans melted into whines, then whimpers as they ebbed away. His arms loosened around you, but he didn't let go, not even when he caught his breath. Instead, he sat still, sighing and nuzzling your chest, and then he slowly released you, looking drowsy as he stared at you. He smothered your face, neck, and shoulders with tender kisses, his lips whispering his gratitude. Honey dripped from his words, and you wished you could taste it. Or have him taste you; your sex was certainly ripe enough. But, forgoing the satisfaction of your lust, you accepted his sleepy affection in his afterglow, returning it by stroking his hair and kissing his forehead. 

"I'm sorry about your rug." You heard him say. You looked over at the forgotten wine stains and laughed. It was kind laughter, coming light, and amused. It put Manuel at ease, and he laughed too. 

"Don't worry. It's just wine. Easy to get out." You shook your head, smiling. "Did you have a good time?"

"Yes, of course I did." He said, kissing your breast. "You were wonderful." 

"Good. Only the best for my clients. How about we go upstairs for a drink? You must be thirsty. Wine isn't much of a thirst quencher." You smiled, then gave his hair a cheerful tousle, "C'mon, I even have some kombucha if you like..." 

You moved to climb off Manuel's lap, but he tightened his arms around you again.

"Can we..." He started to say but trailed off and blushed.

"Hm?" You inquired. 

"Can we stay here?" He asked. "Just for a little bit? I don't think I want to leave just yet." 

Your heart melted at his innocent request. You decided you liked this man and hoped your time with him satisfied his fixation, that he would stay on his path if he decided that was best for him. You hoped most of all that he would feel less shame for his human and very understandable desires. 

Plus, it was always nice to book an affectionate client. You enjoyed cuddles, too. 

"Of course." You beamed at him. He wrapped his arms around you to pull you close after taking the veil from your head to clean himself up. 

You both stayed there for a while, embracing, with Manuel resting his head against your chest. He rocked you in his arms, occasionally asking little questions about your life. You answered honestly, and you felt safe doing so. Something about Manuel made you feel comfortable. 

Half an hour later, the two of you finally decided to retire for the evening. After getting dressed and Manuel gathered his things, the two of you lingered at the door, wishing each other a good night. 

Manuel seemed reluctant to leave still, stating that he wished he could stay longer for that cup of tea you offered, but, unfortunately, work beckoned him back home. 

"Well," You said, "Maybe we can meet up again, yeah? It doesn't have to be an appointment or anything. We could sit and have coffee; maybe I can fix a nice lunch. Not to toot my own horn, but I make a pretty damn good quiche." 

"That sounds very nice, actually," He said, chuckling. Then he took your hand and stroked it lovingly, "And I would love to see you again." 

"Sounds like a date, then." You nodded. 

Manuel finally turned to leave, strolling down the driveway until he turned on his heel, came back fast, and threw his arms around you. He kissed you for a long moment, long, luxurious kisses that you returned without restraint. 

"So, I'll see you?" You asked when the kiss ended.

"I'll see you." He nodded. 

After a final round of goodbyes, you went inside and watched his little black car sail down the darkened road through the living room window. You went to bed late that night, though you didn't fall asleep. You tossed and turned, bothered by lustful musings about Manuel that refused to stop until you slipped your fingers inside your hot sex. Recalling the size of his cock, you imagined him thrusting into you, slowly at first, then as the pleasure built, the images changed into frenzied fucking. You worked your fingers in an almost punishing rhythm to match, and when you came, you screamed his name, your starved sex pulsing around your fingers. After exhausting yourself, you finally fell into sleep's peaceful embrace, cuddling your pillow close.  

All of that happened two months ago. 

The last of your coffee was cold at the bottom of your cup when you came out of your recollection and looked at the clock—11:35 PM. You expected Manuel sometime soon, and you couldn't help but wonder what he desired for this session. It would be the sixth time you've booked him following the promised lunch date, during which the two of you talked for hours about each other, and the more conversation went on, the more you liked the holy man. He was just as sweet, polite, and passionate in the mundane as in the playroom, where he abandoned himself to complete servitude. He obeyed your every word and responded perfectly to every thrash and spank you dealt. He was a joy, and he became more and more adventurous each time. Manuel rarely opposed anything, giving you absolute control over the games you played. He endured a sound flogging while you role-played as an alluring whore nun; He scurried around on his hands and knees on a leash, barking like a dog on command; You edged him while bound with rope and blindfolded. He even showed a keen interest in pegging. However, you two had yet to indulge in that. 

You raised from the recliner, placed your mug on the coffee table, and peeked through the curtains again. The moon was nearly full, hanging high and bright in the sky among the stars. They looked like shards of diamonds to you, cast upon inky velvet. You marveled at its beauty until a pair of headlights penetrated the darkness. You smiled, and your heart skipped when Manuel's little black Beetle pulled into your driveway. 

You whirled towards the door, feeling the giddiness of a schoolgirl with a crush. 

Then, the heaviness of the whole situation settled itself on your shoulders, and not for the first time. So many times, you contemplated your relationship with Manuel. Being the holy man he was, a familiar creeping thought wriggled in your head: Were you corrupting him? The idea was troubling, and the inevitable guilt flowed over you, thick and clinging like oil. You often felt somehow unclean, even though that wasn't what you believed. But you allowed what Manuel told you to wash you clean. 

He called you not long after your first session, and his tone was merry and infectious, so different from when he first spoke to you. Manuel told you now that he acknowledged his desires; the difference in his life was like day and night. He could sleep well again, pray again, and tackle his work with renewed vigor and without distraction. It was like his despair disappeared that night, replaced not with guilt or self-loathing as he expected but with warmth and comfort like the arms of a Holy Mother. 

"I know this isn't what you believe," He said, then went silent for a second before whispering, "But I think I was led to you to show me my humanity again. Maybe by Mary, perhaps another. Who the hell even knows anymore? Either way, blasphemy or not, it's taught me a lot, and it feels good to have no guilt for what I did." He sighed, "...Thank you for giving me a chance." 

He sounded happy, so very, very happy. 

Those words alone cleansed you as soap and water would. And just like that, guilt was such a ridiculous thing to feel. 

A knock came at the door, and you went to answer it, humming a cheerful tune to yourself. 

[lunamagicablu]

Ieri notte al mio ho chiesto che, per oggi, ma solo per oggi, si pigli un giorno di vacanza. Gli ho chiesto di innalzarsi in volo, di raggiungere chi non vede da molto tempo, perchè, magari, è troppo indaffarato a riparare i miei casini. Non so, forse, là in paradiso c’è un bar, dove si ritrovano tutti gli angeli custodi, dove bevendo un caffè o una birra (il mio ce lo vedo già con una Bud in mano), si raccontano le storie che noi uomini interpretiamo. Il mio, in questo momento potrebbe raccontare: “Lo sai che ha fatto quel cazzaro del mio, invece? Una notte, faceva l’idiota con un suo amico, volevano fare uno scherzo ad una coppietta che si stava imboscando. Si sono nascosti in una casa diroccata e, quel coglione, non si è accorto che mancava il pavimento: è caduto da 4 metri, per salvarlo mi si è stortigliata un’ala… pensa che quando il tempo cambia sento ancora dolore!! E lo sai il bello? Dopo i 2 scemi sono rimasti a ridersela per 30 minuti! Ti rendi conto??” A lui, in questo suo giorno, voglio dire grazie. Voglio dire grazie per aver pianto le mie stesse lacrime. Voglio dire grazie per aver gioito della mia stessa felicità. Voglio dire grazie per aver esultato dei miei stessi traguardi. Voglio dire grazie per essersi emozionato per i tramonti di QUEI giorni che finivano e per le albe di QUELLI che iniziavano. Ma soprattutto, voglio dire grazie per ogni singola piuma perduta per aiutarmi e lo ha fatto tante volte… FRANCESCO PATERA, ANGELI DI LUCE art _by_aisteria_ ************************ Last night I asked my friend to take a day off for today, but only for today. I asked him to fly up, to reach out to those who haven't seen for a long time, because maybe he's too busy fixing my messes. I don't know, maybe, there's a bar in heaven where all the guardian angels meet, where, while drinking a coffee or a beer (I can already see mine with a Bud in hand), we tell the stories that we men we interpret. Mine, at this moment could tell: “Do you know what that jackass of mine did instead? One night, he played the idiot with a friend of his, they wanted to play a joke on a couple who was hiding. They hid in a ruined house and, that asshole, didn't realize that the floor was missing: he fell from 4 meters, to save him my wing was twisted... just think that when the weather changes I still feel pain!! And you know the beauty? After the 2 idiots they were laughing for 30 minutes! You realize??" To him, on this day of his, I want to say thank you. I want to say thank you for crying my own tears. I want to say thank you for enjoying my own happiness. I want to say thank you for cheering on my own accomplishments. I want to say thank you for getting excited about the sunsets of THOSE days that ended and the sunrises of THOSE that began. But above all, I want to say thank you for every single lost feather to help me and he has done it so many times… FRANCESCO PATERA, ANGELS OF LIGHT art _by_aisteria_ 

[making-dough]

🌈- A memory about when they first fell in love

memories meme - very closed and very late.

♠ - Love? Hers was a lifestyle far too risky for love. What would happen if she were to fall in love with someone and then went and gets herself impaled on the nearest lance? Can you even imagine the trauma that would bring to her supposed loved-one? Can you even imagine the pain and the heartbreak?

That was why, unlike her sisters, she'd tried to keep herself detached. They could feel the idealistic warmth of falling in love and being loved but not her. Oh, it'd be nice but it'd be too dangerous. She'd needed to keep her eyes on the prize.

But there was once she was almost tempted to say stuff it all and start on something that might look like a relationship. It was on the boat ride back to Port Badon. Nergal was dead and everything was over and done with. Once back in Lycia, she'd really just planned on slipping away quietly. She really hated saying good-bye. Good-bye just meant never seeing everyone again and returning to the road alone. So long as she didn't say it, they'll meet again one day. Well, she'd planned to save for the heavy hand on her wrist. A hand belonging to a certain dumb pirate. "What is it, wharf rat? Whatcha need?", she muttered at him.

"Aye know tha' look, woman! Yer plannin' on jus' slippin' away, ain't ya?", came the guttural response.

"And what of it?", she sniped back. "I don't need to say good-bye when there's a lot more cash to be made out there!", she pointed out, waving a hand at the still far-off Lycian shore. "And besides, it's not like you guys'll miss me at al-"

"Bu' wha' 'bout yer sisters?" That brought her up to a stop. "Aye, uh, jus' found out Aye had a sister lately. Aye ain't great at al' 'tis but aye tink aye care fer her lots. Aye'm shure yers care fer you too."

"I...they'll be fine.", Farina murmured out, hanging her head downwards. "It'll just be business as usual for them. They won't need me at all."

"Woul'n't they? Aye'd tink dey would. An' Aye tink aye would too."

"I-", Before she could even begin to think of a response to that, she found herself wrapped up in his arms and held close to his chest. "Aye ain't no great shakes at 'tis but aye 'tink aye'm gonna need some help wit' mai dream. Can yer stay an' hel' me?"

For a moment, she found herself moved. Why not? Life as a pirate won't be that much different than as a mercenary. It'll be just as freeing, anyway. And probably less dangerous. At minimum, she won't be treated as cannon fodder and that was an improvement all on its own.

But can she trust him? That was always her bugbear, wasn't it? Trust. Could she even bring herself to trust him and trust that she won't find herself used again? Can she bare her heart out to him and trust it won't get broken? No, she can't. It's still too dangerous.

"Heh, nice try.", she declared, peeling herself from the pirate. "It's for that treasure map, right? You probably just want to go ahead and pick my brains or something? You can go ahead and try. I'm still nabbing the treasure first."

That's right. Ever since that training accident, it had seemed like she's been alone. So, why shouldn't she stay alone? She's freer that way. She can reach anyone and anything that way. So, she didn't need anyone. She turned her back on the pirate and declared simply. "I-I don't need anyone." Now, why did it seem like she was trying to convince herself that?

[makima-s-most-smile]

Trigun Maximum 5 Part 1

Slowly I stalk my prey (catching up to the current week of the trigunbookclub) and slowly I am gaining ground.

So many good Wolfwood panels!

01: The city and then the feast of hounds

Kids really know how to spot prey. Vash is the kiddos’ prey.

Apples? Yeah, apples of enlightenment to be… Vash being part of a little kid’s gang is cute. And they are loitering, but helping their elders. Aw. :3 This will end in tears, I know it.

There was a time when Vash felt safe enough to have something kinda steady! Even as a helper, this is a steady job. This isn’t Vash on the run. And while he is trying to sneak out of the people’s life after he has done his business, he has settled down somewhat, he made connections to people. 

Also Count Vasquez! The guy Vash seemingly killed. Additionally to the whole city, but the wanted poster stressed his murder.

And through all of his emerging memories, the peril that Meryl is in keeps him on track. He cares for her, as much as he keeps her on a distance.

I know this is meant as body horror, but this panel made me laugh so hard. Zazie has eaten too much garlic and is annoying their peers with their bad breath. Or Zazie burping after drinking 2 litres of coke. That initial reaction aside, brrr, their whole body is filled with insects. It looks like releasing them takes a toll onto their host body. How… does Zazie get a host body, btw? Do they just take someone over? Is it corpses or living people? Do they have to take care of it?

And even though they have such power, they protect their host body with a gun. Maybe you need a gun to be part of the gun-ho-guns, even Rai-Dei had a gun-sword. And damn, Hoppered just tore their arm and shoulder off. Dayumm! The panels at the end look like Midvalley and Hoppered killed them together, but I cannot tell how Midvalley attacked? Did he tear the insects apart with his tooting?

I make jokes about Vash and Wolfwood’s: ”I know, he knows, that I know, that he knows, that… to the infinity”, but I feel like that is the whole makeup of the gun-ho-guns. Like Midvalley and Hoppered play fifth dimension chess, with how they suspect Zazie, how they decide to kill Vash, even though it kinda diminishes Midvalley’s chances of leaving alive and so on.

Oh, Midvalley helped Hoppered to sneak upon Zazie by undoing any soundwave Hoppered made with his saxophone. I wonder if I show that to my colleague with perfect pitch, if he hits me for suggesting he does the same.

Fuck yeah! No braincell Meryl to the rescue! Take that gun! I love how we see her come to a decision! Let that spite aid you! Shoot Midvalley in the dick!

02: Breakout Back to the past. This time, Hoppered. And, yeah, this world does not take kindly to the disabled. Vash has the privilege of his high-tech prosthesis, but others have not. Society does not take well to them, if they don’t have a loving community. It says much about Hoppered’s strength that he is able to take care of another person, too. And so respectfully! What happened to her? How are they related, if at all? 

She means the world to Hoppered, that much is certain. But isn’t she to Hoppered like Rem is to Vash? She seems to be the reason for Hoppered’s hate and actions. Her loss makes him, like her presence made his world before. But even more so, she has no real agency. Like the assaulting dude said: She is like a doll. We don’t see her personality, her wishes, or anything. Hoppered idolises her! But he doesn’t reminisce about her personality, her feelings, their connection or anything. His memories are all about her being on a kind of throne, the centre of his world. Something so pure, he cannot even touch her. (While, yes, good for taking her triggers into account, but there are things like: Hey, my friend, may I hold your hand?) While we saw more of Rem, she is gone for so long by now, that even her wishes do not reach the presence anymore. Surely, we can surmise that she wanted the twins to have a good life and such, but in the present her existence has been perverted to Judas or Maria herself, respectively. Like the memory of the nameless woman idol, Rem is scarcely more herself to the twins.

As much as I love Wolfwood, he is an inhuman monster in regards to fights. Blinded, most likely partially deaf and having just barely scraped by death just now, he still finds his target. He is the bloodhound that was put on Vash’ trail, his perseverance and resilience is not normal. And now he is on the trail of Midvalley. Midvalley is rightfully scared of him! People more often think about how Vash is a weapon and how much about him is about the age old question of: Who is the guilty one? The weapon or who pulled the trigger? But Wolfwood is the same. This man is a weapon. The big difference is that Wolfwood somewhat chooses his target to protect others. But the question of his agency in his actions is still up in the air. Because for Wolfwood the question is not whether to shoot or not, it is where to shoot. In his world, there is no no shooting as an option.

Fuck yeah! Meryl! Tell him it is a trap! 

Thanks for making the comparison of Wolfwood to a bloodhound even more obvious by having him lick his fucking lips, Nightow!

Fuck yeah, Milly! Fuck Midvalley up! Take this, Wolfwood! She is not a helpless damsel!

Wait… Did Midvalley cancel out every sound til now? So Vash could not even have heard Meryl warning him? Does this mean that Wolfwood was blind and practically completely deaf while marching on? Ö_____________Ö

Okay, and now they doing a ballerina ass stance. Why? Dunno. But looks awesome. I love the tilting of the panel.

This page just… *chef’s kiss* Nightow loves his standoffs.

03: Loss

It’s about the loss of July, isn’t it? Maybe even the loss of Meryl’s naivete towards Vash.

So, Midvalley knew? Maybe he met the real Chapel before? I love how it is Milly who puts who Wolfwood truly is into focus, by screaming his name. Having the last word “Chapel” and then Milly accidentally countering it with Wolfwood’s true name is just nice symbolism.

Traitor can mean so many things here. Who is Wolfwood betraying exactly? Doesn’t look like it is about Ninelives or Leonof. But Midvalley does not care about Knives, he is betraying him right now himself. Would be pretty hypocritical for him to call Wolfwood out on it. Or did he put two and two together and knows that Wolfwood is there to betray Vash in the end? Why would Midvalley care? He doesn’t care for humanity or Knives or Vash. He just wants to survive. I would say Midvalley gets that Wolfwood is a loyal and softhearted person, who is able to do gruesome things for his close ones. Since they are fighting each other, it is only one person who comes out alive. So Midvalley tries every trick in his repertoire to get an upper hand, like aggravating Wolfwood to make him slip up.

I would be more scared right now, Midvalley. But could Midvalley hear that Wolfwood is not Chapel by his breaths? Maybe even his heartbeat when he lied to Legato?

Holy mother of dog. Yeah, Wolfwood is inhuman. Also, isn’t this the first time the Punisher is used that obviously as a shield? FINALLY! That is my favourite use of her! (later chapter, Zard, then you can gush). Wolfwood is not truly an attacker. While he attacks people, he doesn’t do it without provocation. His first and foremost function is being a protector, to the orphanage, to Vash and to the people he cares ever so slightly about. And he cares about Milly and Meryl!

Hehe, get it? Because of WOLFwood.

And… They are going to blow up the whole of dragon’s nest district. How are they better than the monster that blew up July? Especially Hoppered. Is he so far gone to his revenge that he is unable to understand that there may be someone like him and more so like his friend in the district? Does he care at all?

Vash floofs up! Feathers to the rescue! Is he still conscious? It is a subconscious defence mechanism, but when and how does it go off?

Why… does Hoppered have a cross on his nasal bridge?

Okay, so touching the feathers makes people share Vash’ thoughts? Memories? Can he control it? Or is it about stuff that is on his mind?

Hi, Knives! You beverage boy! Do we ever see him eat? Nightow mentioned that he liked to draw his characters eating for the homely feeling. But Knives does not seem to eat. Only drink. Is he like Stampede Knives and does not need to eat? Only drink? Or is it just pleasure? Doing the sippy. Maybe gifting Knives some really good hot chocolate with whipped cream would have stopped him from going genocidal.

“You are being rude.” Proceeds to cut up his brother. Is Vash rude? Maybe for a delusional, emotional, geriatric cactus like Knives.

Ewewewewew! Medical malpractice. That makes me feel icky as hell. Knives is… Another reader called it pushy to stay polite, but how can Knives not see what he does is monstrous? He is abusing his brother to such a degree and all in the search for power. He seems to have gone through the same, since Vasquez is able to compare him to Vash. Moreso, he is unlocking this power for Vash. How would Vash even be able to gain any control over it? He hasn’t got any! We’ve seen it in January Rock. And honestly that is Knives fault.

Interesting that Knives first idea of anyone having so much power is assuming that everyone would want the person with power dead. That’s him projecting his own fears onto humanity. If it wasn’t Vash bearing that power but, for example, Midvalley, Knives would have killed him off without a second thought. But Vash and Knives are the same, they are brothers, so Vash has to be on his side in the end. That’s why Knives does not harm him, as in doesn’t kill him.

And now poor Meryl gets a first seat for memory lane, too. She does not even get to see what made Vash unlock this power. She is only confronted with the results, with Vash fearing his own body and Knives being Knives. She doesn’t deserve any of this. She should know the truth, but not like this.

Why does it sound so dirty?!? XDD Holy! Contained in their seeds! An amazing feel of release! Blows away all reason! I laughed out loud. It fits how far beyond reasoning Knives is in his hunger for power. This is not something logical, this is just a feral need.

Knives is so hypocritical. We all already said that. But hot damn he is unable to reflect on any of his actions. How many times has Knives hurt Vash? How many times did he betray Vash? He is shocked at the scars? But how many of them are a direct result of Knives meddling? What can and should be said about humanity as a whole, can be said about Knives! But what is even more damning, for every shitty human Vash also meets good humans. Linas, Docs, Luidas and so on. Where is the good Knives? Knives is right that Vash is a walking contradiction. But Knives is one, too. And back to Rem again. Rem, Vash’ Maria and Knives’ devil. Knives completely disconnects from his own actions. All of Vash’ “bad” parts are due to Rem or humans and it is upon Knives to cut them off until only the “good” parts remain. Knives is imagining a perfect brother that never was and Vash has to suffer by that image.

Well, fuck you, Knives. You deserve it. But Vash does not. I… am not sure if Vash chose to shoot. He surely chose where to point the gun and his power, but did he choose to “release” the power? Had he so much control over it? Like a mirror to Fifth Moon Knives took control over him and his power (only in Fifth Moon he has learned that maybe he should stay away from where the gun can be pointed), he is assaulting Vash, taking control over his body and power. Knives wants Vash to release it. He is the one who makes it go out of control. I just do not see a conscious decision in Vash to let it go. It is truly a loss. A loss of July and a loss of Vash’ control, power and agency.

Weird that we do not get more Meryl insights. The panels regularly flicker back to Hoppered, but Meryl is also part of the feather blob. She is sharing those memories, too. She is experiencing the assault and the loss, too. Why don't we get more from her? She is a much more important character than Hoppered, even though Hoppered is the foil to Vash in this fight.

[glitchyk]

Glitchyk Fun fact of da day

I’m berry eepy so it may be a lil bit of a shite post yaayyyyyy

Uh.. fun fact, I write a lot when I’m brrod and I just make random shuidyyrt. Fuck. Why is it when I need yuo bill you font fucking do your job

Fuck you bill

Anyways eh brain go brrrrd bery very offten

Brain go brrrr and I make a ton of stories and shir that I than work on all at once

I guess I like to keep busy, have many things to be able to bounce off of for when I’m making things, so that if I get a slight block with one, than u can bounce to another and work on that

Slight/lil bit vent below the cut

And I guess another childhood fun fact since whythe fuckn ot. So, when I was a child I fro some reason was very morbid as we all knos, and at like a young age I could sorta be able to think to myself, like at kindergarden age, “Man… it’s weird, it feels like everyone hates me, when I know they don’t.. but why do I feel like they do if I know they don’t..?” and it’s something I never worked on, since I didn’t want to bother anyone in my house, I’d rather sit and do nothing at all. It’s fnny how I realize my parents didn’t know everything we did as kids when I was very kittle, like when I told them about how back when we went to church, I used to get bda thoughts every night and I remember just being in tears praying that when I disappear my family will forget o existed since it would be for the better of them. U mean… u didn’t think I’d be missed much if I did die, I never wanted to get hurt or kms, but I always had the mindset of ‘well if I dei, I can’t do nothing about it, but I know it would hurt people I know.’ It didn’t help that I didn’t have much emotions as a kid, I can only ever remember crying, or being mad, aside from just a little bit of agitationsince like, I have six siblings and I’m near the middle, it was really hard to feel like you could do anything. Maybe that’s why I’m just so negative about myself, since my older brother is an artist, I have two older sisters who are cyber soecilists, my oldest sister is great at everything, and meanwhile while pretty much everyone has something that makes them a individual that stands out, but I don’t, I’m just an odo mix of all of them, and I feel like I’m not nearly as good as any of them. Maybe that’s why I feel the need to make so much, because so kind, and to always have these ‘perfect or nothing’ inner thoughts.

Everything’s much better, but it sucks how things used to be. At least it shows how great everything is with my family now.. mostly

Plz don’t ask me ably anything I say right now I’m so eepy and ired that m jus eep typing

Sleeping

Sleep typing

Fuck toy bull

Fuck YOU BILL.

Mmmmhhhhhhhh

I go eep now since it’s ✨✨11:50 at night✨✨

[ghostampede]

okay you already know what time it is: trigun flower shop/tattoo and piercing parlour AU where vash, meryl, milly, and roberto all work at a flower shop while the gung ho guns all work at a large tattoo and piercing across the street and when a menacing beast of a child comes crashing through both places, wolfwood the master tattoo artist ends up actually meeting his floral neighbours and hits it off amazingly

the outlaws run Floral July, a small flower shop downtown. it’s a homey and comforting place for all, filled to the brim with foliage, art, and fun facts (courtesy of vash) about various plants. this is everyone’s second choice in career, all of them had other plans but decided they didn’t enjoy what they were doing enough to warrant and staying and wanted to do something special abd fufilling for them, which ended up being a flower shop. roberto was an ex editor and chief of Gunsmoke News, milly and meryl were both insurance workers sick of the tediousness, and vash was a bio-engineer alongside his brother (until the lab they worked at had a major accident and they both decided to switch careers). milly and meryl were friends who met at their insurance job but seem like they’ve been friends forever with how close they are. meryl met roberto shortly after quitting, as she was considering applying for some journalism-related jobs and even though none accepted, she met roberto after an interview at gunsmoke and learned about the floral shop he was opening up through there. vash came a bit later once the store was preparing to go, like a god damn stampede he came and brought utter chaos with him but also was really keen on helping them out with street set up as he passed by and knew a shit ton about flowers AND he needed a new job so he applied and ended up working with the crew. thus the floral family was born.

meanwhile, the gung ho guns run Knives & Guns: Tattoo and Piercing. it’s a very different atmosphere, filled with a lot more bickering and smirking as they annoy the shit out of each other than you might see at floral july. after quitting his bio-engineering job due to an accident he 100% not cause but was also 100% his fault and having his brother leave him in the dust, nai saverem decided to say Fuck It and bought a property downtown to turn into some kind of business (he always was more of a businessman) which eventually became knives & guns. what he failed to realize though is like the next fucking day vash got a job across the street and vash still refused to even talk to him lmao. though nai owned the place, he mostly dealt with the business side and legato who was moreso like the manager actually had experience with tattoos and lead the team even though he was a little freaky guy. elendria and rai-dei do piercings while livio and wolfwood do that tattoos most if the time (there are others but especially them. midvalley is there but ngl even though he’s technically a tattooist he’s also just some Guy that brings a sax to work and can be heard playing in the background lmao. while most of them met for the first time here, livio and wolfwood were already brothers who aged out of the foster system together and managed to stick through and get a job together. it wasn’t either of their dreams but it pays the bills and they’re good at it. the same sentiment could probably be said for all of them honestly. wolfwood though is so good at his job (even though he lied on his resume and stole half the stuff from his ex-boss Chapel + takes 8 hour smoke breaks + is the fucking worst to legato and nai) many people come by to get a tattoo from him specifically.

zazzie is a neutral force, just some kid who shouldn’t be in either place really but comes by anyway, it’s just an unspoken rule that nai let’s them into the shop. so when they figure out nai’s brother is across the street they cause a shit ton of mischief using bug friends. idk what exactly it would be but somehow it leads to wolfwood having to chase them down and watch over them to avoid a murder taking place, further leading to him meeting the outlaws and having something just click when he sees them, especially vash.