#i did so many of my chores yesterday and today

[iftitah]

it's so fucked up that in my head being productive is equivalent to being academically productive

[readychilledwine]

Housewife

✨️Kink education with Elizabeth✨

The Housewife kink, also known as the 1950s Household, is a power play exchange dynamic that typically involves a dom and service sub. It is characterized by one partner being seen as a homemaker and one as the breadwinner. During the 1950s, the homemaker’s “job” was to take care of the household chores, dinner, children (if they had any), and following norms, their husband's needs all while being the picture perfect example of soft femininity and breedability.

Subs partaking in this form of play tend to wear dresses, heels, aprons, ect, while maintaining a clean home and cooking. Many people enjoy this dynamic due to its ability to come into real-life play instead of just hiding in the bedroom.

It is one form kink play that does not necessarily have to be sexual, but that's not why we're all here 👀

NSFW BELOW CUT

💕Peep Valentines Day Bingo Here 💕

Azriel x Reader

Summary - After a long day of interrogations, Azriel is more than pleased to come home to dinner made, a clean home, and a pretty wife.

Warnings - sub and dom dynamics, references to completely power exchange play, oral (mreceiving), slightly demeaning behavior towards females

A/N - I apologize for the delay. My little is going through a growth spurt and a little fussy today. Plus, it took FOREVER to find the perfect gif.

Azriel opened the door to his cabin. His shoulders were slumped forward, wings hanging slightly lower than normal.

It had been a rough day. He had been torturing the same prisoner for 3 days now. They refused to yield, they refused to break, and they refused to bend and give the shadowsinger what he wanted.

He knew that all would change the second he saw you, though. You were currently setting dinner on the table. Your hair was softly curled and pinned back, a soft touch of makeup graced your face highlighting his favorite features of yours.

You were wearing a blue sundress the flowed out at the bottom with heels and a blue bow in your hair.

“How's my wife today?” He took pleasure in knowing you would not address him until he addressed you. He took pleasure in knowing that within seconds of hearing his voice, you were trained to get him a glass of whiskey and greet him with a kiss.

“Azriel, you're home early,” you immediately went to the liquor counter, dress swaying as you did. You poured him a finger of whiskey, moving to add ice before walking to him and kissing his cheek. “How was your day?”

Azriel drank as you began removing his outer heavy layer for him, watching like a hawk as you hung his coat and placed his already kicked off boats into the precise place he had told you they go.

“Same prisoner as yesterday,” he watched you blink in confusion. “The bastard will not break and submit. Did you make dinner?”

You nodded enthusiastically, walking him to the table and getting him a plate. “I made your favorite.”

Azriel settled into the couch after dinner, watching you as you cleaned dishes. Every soft movement of your dress had his eyes locked on the hem. Each time you'd reach forward slightly, he was rewarded with a glimpse at the garter belt straps that connected to the satin tops of your thigh highs. It was a constant reminder to him that you were his present, waiting to be unwrapped so delicately as a reward for your continued obedient behavior.

“Angel,” he spoke softly. “Are all your chores done after this?”

It should have bothered you as a wingless Illyrian female to hand over submission so willingly out of hope you'd be rewarded with your mate's cock pounding into you over and over, but instead knowing you were about to be rewarded, that he was about to use you like a pretty cock sleeve, that had your thighs pressing together. “They are. Unless you wanted me to do something else.” A cool shadow began swirling your leg. Its touch was like soft kisses and left shivers in its wake.

Azriel leaned back, watching his shadow go on its mission, watching as you took a gasp, spine going straight before moaning his name. “Let me know when you finish.” He placed an arm on the back of the couch, scenting your arousal filling the air as you whimpered and went back to the last few dishes.

It wasn't fair. Trying to focus on scrubbing and rinsing as a shadow sat vibrating against your lace covered clit was nearly impossible. 5 dishes, you reminded yourself. He lets you leave them overnight to dry. Just 5 more. You focused on the dishes, doing the best you could to ignore the growing wetness between your thighs.

You almost jumped as rough hands ran up your arms. “My pretty little wife. My mate,” one of his hands wrapped and held your throat. His other hand ran down your chest, through the valley of your breasts, before settling on your hip. He started placing soft kisses along your neck, your ear. “How lucky am I to have such an obedient wife taking care of my home?” He squeezed your throat softly before his other hand began lifting Your dress. The hand on your throat moved to join the other one as he moved you away From the sink and to a different section of countertop, bending you over it and place one hand at the back of your neck to hold you Down. He groaned as his shadows held up that pretty dress, exposing those sapphire lace panties

"The dishes," you panted.

"Can wait. I can't. I've been hard since I walked in to you setting the table wearing my color, wearing a little bow tying your hair back like some innocent little thing." Your panties were moved to the side. Two fingers began to run the length of your core as Azriel groaned behind you. "So fucking wet I've hardly done anything."

You heard a muffled moan and could only assume he had put his fingers into his mouth. "So sweet, baby." You could hear him undoing his pants, feel as the head of his cock ran your folds. You could feel down the bond that it would be a long night.

You gasped loudly, gripping the counter with a mix between a moan and scream as he pushed into the hilt. Azriel wasted no time, threading one hand into your hair and pulling while the other held your hip. Azriel growled as you wiggled slightly, causing you to still. "Such a good little wife."

He wasted no time, setting a pace that had your toes curling in those heels that made your ass look phenomenal. Shadows quickly moved to hold the dress up, allowing the hand on your hip to move to your still covered clit.

There was something freeing about being below him, serving him, being used by him. It was enough for that coil to tighten faster as your mind went blank, focusing on nothing but the feeling of his heavy hard cock hitting every nerve inside of you, angling until he found the spot that had you scream his name.

Despite the roughness he fucked you with, the power you were freely handing to him, Azriel still sent wave after wave of his love, his admiration, and his pride down the bond. With each wave, that coil got tighter and tighter, your moans louder and more desperate as your body felt like it was on fire. "Be a good wife and cum for me," his fingers pressed down on that bundle of nerves, hips pistoning into you even faster as you screamed his name, walls milking his cock.

Azriel pulled out instead of following you over the ledge, ripping that dress off of you and leaving you in the lingerie and heels. He lifted you into his arms while you still came down from the high, your vision almost blurred.

You felt the soft bed under you, smelling the fresh sheets you had just changed hours ago. Azriel smelled them too as he positioned you with your head hanging off the bed. "You spoil me," his hands ran to your breasts, squeezing and tweaking your nipples.

His cock sat heavy and leaking near your face, soaked in your release, "Open." You smiled, opening your mouth wide, allowing him to push in just as two fingers slid into your heat.

He was gentle this time, for now at least, fucking your throat. You ran your tongue along his length, hollowing your cheeks and swallowing around him. You were at his mercy, wiggling and moaning around him as the wet noises of his cock in your mouth and his fingers thrusting in and out of you echoed with his moans and occasional whimper.

His pace picked up as his fingers did, making him chuckle in satisfaction as you gagged around him. "You deserve a reward for how hard you worked today, don't you, y/n?" He groaned as you moaned around him, vibrating his cock as he held it deep in your throat. "Not a single thing out of place, every chore finished, and I came home to you looking like a delicious treat? What a good little wife." You felt your vision getting slightly blurry until he pulled out again, your pleasure almost maddening as he avoided the spongy spot inside of you and brushed your swollen clit with ghost like touches. "That's what you are isn't it? No thoughts in that pretty mind of yours but pleasing me and taking my cock like an obedient whore?"

You would have nodded, begging him to give you what you needed as you agreed to every word, but his cock was still occupying and twitching in your mouth. You knew from the way his fingers had become messier in their rhythm, from the way his words were getting breathy, from how each moment of your throat burning as he held himself deep inside grew longer and longer that he was close.

You had been dreaming of his all day. Dreaming for your reward for dusting, for cooking, for cleaning. The reward you'd get when he came home to a spotless house, to his laundry done, to you wearing your pretty outfit for him.

His fingers curled into the spot you needed, pressing and tapping there as shadows curled and flicked your nipples and his thumb ran gentle circles on your clit. You finished within seconds with no warning, crying around his cock, hands fisting the sheets.

Azriel fell over the edge soon after, spilling with his cock shoved all the way into your mouth forcing you to swallow what you could, head thrown back as his wings flared and he moaned your name without shame.

He pulled out, fisting the exposed length and allowing the last of his cum to land on your face, admiring the mess of drool, makeup, and his seed you had become. His fingers left your cunt, going to his own mouth as he licked them clean with a smile. He watched as your hand waved and the bathtub began to fill.

"I'm not done with you yet," he panted, hands trailing your body.

You smiled, your own hands running up and down his thighs. "I counted in that, but let me take care of your other needs first."

Azriel looked up, a wide smile on his face as he sent a silent prayer to whoever blessed you with acts of service as your love language. "I would really like that."

General tag list:

@hnyclover @glitterypirateduck @slytherinindisguise @mischiefmanager @bloodicka @starsinyourseyes @the-sweet-psycho

@mariahoedt @rinalouu

Valentines Day Taglist:

@sfhsgrad-blog @amara-moonlight @eternallyelvish

@novaksangel @teenageeggscissorslawyer

As always- please let me know if you would like to be added to a taglist 💜

[kealia]

Notice me, please.

Neymar jr x reader

~ reader is mad at her boyfriend because he forgets about most stuff. Her boyfriend’s best friend locks them up to force them to make up.

———————————————————————

READER’s POV:

“Kylian, let me out!” I yelled out, knocking on the wooden door.

Kylian (my boyfriend’s best friend) locked us up, me and Neymar. We had a stupid argument, but I shall not apologise first! I do not care, I really don’t. He should apologise, it’s all his fault!

NEYMAR’s POV:

I sat down on the bed, I left my phone in the living room. Should’ve brought it with me… Y/n was making such a big deal out of this, I mean she can just apologise and then Ky would let us out. She’s mad at me because I forgot about our anniversary. I get that she’s angry, I do but she didn’t need to make an argument about it! It’s been about 3 days since she stopped talking to me. Of course, I told Kylian at training yesterday, today is his birthday. He invited us, mostly me, but he apparently texted Y/n to come over as well. Y/n was talking to Kylian today, but not to me. I guess he got this idea from her side of the story. Meu Deus, this is unbelievable!

“Y/n…” I started, I wanted to sound calm so there won’t be another argument.

READER’s POV:

“Y/n…” I heard Neymar’s soft voice, God why is he so calm! I stood in-front of the door and just stared at it. It wasn’t interesting at all but I was certainly not in the mood. He just has to apologise. That’s all…

“Querida, podemos conversar?” [Darling, can we talk?]

Did he just ‘Querida’ me? No way. After missing our anniversary he wants to ‘Querida’ me? He didn’t even apologise!

“Sobre o que?” I didn’t want to snap back at him but I just couldn’t help it. I was just extremely mad at Neymar. [About what?]

“Eu sinto muito…”

Carry on.

“Eu sinto muito, eu não queria que você me odiasse! Não esqueci de propósito, apenas esqueci de alguma forma!” [I'm sorry, I didn't mean for you to hate me! I didn't forget on purpose, I just forgot somehow!]

I scoffed, “Eu deveria sentir pena de você?” [Should I feel sorry for you?]

If I’m honest, when he said ‘I didn’t mean for you to hate me!’ It did break a small vein in my heart. Key word: ‘small’! I turned to him, he was sitting on Kylian’s bed. He looked so adorable! I couldn’t break, I needed to stay mad at him. He’ll find out my weakness, which is, Him.

NEYMAR’s POV:

She stood in-front of me, her arms crossed, her eyebrows furrowed, she looked hot when she was mad. But she was mad at me.

“Bem eu não sei-“ I started but she cut me off, [Well, I don’t know-]

“Neymar! I am sick of you forgetting stuff! I mean this anniversary was important. It was important for me! I thought you’d feel the same. For God’s sake, I thought you were different from them! I thought you won’t forget about small things like this! Why can’t you see that?”

I’ve never seen Y/n so frustrated. She seemed more angrier than in our last argument. I didn’t want to fight again. I wanted to apologise…

“Bebê, I really am sorry. Very sorry. I didn’t want you to be mad at me. Please, não me odeie, eu apenas esqueci. Não irá acontecer novamente. Eu prometo!” [Don't hate me, I just forgot. It won't happen again. I promise!]

“Oh please, Ney. I’ve heard that loads of times. Too many! Infact.”

How am I meant to apologise when she won’t let me?

READER’s POV:

I know I was being stubborn but many men told me that. They told me to trust them, that they promise me this, they won’t do that again, it was just a mistake, it only happened once. I was sick. Sick and tired. Exhausted. Why can’t men just be expected to remember stuff or to not do it again? Neymar thinks that not remembering an anniversary is the only thing he did. He forgot loads of stuff. Like doing most of his chores I told him to do, while I was away. My favourite colour, my parent’s names, that I had siblings, that I crave chocolate during that time of the month. He forgets the simple stuff, men just don’t get it. They don’t get it, that we, women, love when they remember small details about us. I wish he’d see me the way I see him. I notice when his eyes soften anytime he sees Davi or Kylian, I notice how much he cares about his sister or mother, how excited he gets when he sees a dog, how he slowly lost his passion in football, I notice so much stuff about him. I wish he noticed my little details…

NEYMAR’s POV;

“Look, Ney. It isn’t just about the anniversary. It’s about how stressed you are about training and family. I get it, I know how stressful work is and family. I have a family and I work, you know that! It’s just… it seems as if you don’t really care about me. You ignore me, the things I do for you-“

“Y/n, I don’t ignore you. I don’t. Eu noto como você escolhe um tom diferente de batom ou gloss para cada ocasião, como você troca de roupa 10 vezes só para voltar para a primeira, como seu sotaque português está melhorando, como você diz ‘ai’ em vez de ‘ouch’,a maneira como seu cabelo se enrola naturalmente na parte inferior, como suas sardas aparecem no verão, mas desaparecem quando fica frio. I notice you, meu amor.” [I notice how you choose a different shade of lipstick or lipgloss for every occasion, how you change clothes 10 times only to go back to the first outfit, how your Portuguese accent is improving, how you say "ai" instead of "ouch", the way your hair curls naturally at the bottom, how your freckles show up in the summer but disappear when it gets cold.]

She started crying, I hope they were happy tears. I didn’t mean to make her cry. I opened my arms and stood up, smiling at her. She looked down, her tears flowing down to the floor.

“Venha aqui.” I told her softly, she looked up and rapidly wrapped her hands around my waist. I held her head close to my chest. My shirt slowly dampening from her tears. I buried my face into her hair. It smelt like vanilla and coffee. Just like she smells, I loved that about her. Sometimes I use her shampoo, because it smells like her. Like Y/n. Like my sweet girlfriend.

I heard the door creak open, “You okay?” Kylian asked.

I just hummed and nodded to him, he closed the door and left us. We stayed like that for about 15 minutes. I love her.

I could never be mad at her, I could never ignore her. I hope she knows that.

———————————————————————

I wrote this at 3 am so there might be some grammar and spelling mistakes but let’s hope not!

Happy New Year!!!

<3

[marymary-diva17]

Trouble fitting in

sully family x human daughter reader

It was the next day after arriving at the village of the metakayian, and you could see some of the villagers were keeping their distance from you. That was something you couldn't blame them for as you had just arrived and not that many knew of your existence as well. It was going to take them so time to trust you as navi and trust you as human as well. They will soon learn that the human girl lived up to her family name and title

Norm " so are you kids ready to started lesson today"

y/n " yes uncle norm"

spider " sure dad we are ready for our lessons and learn the ways of water"

Norm " well eat your breakfast kids and once you are done you, can go to your avatar bodies" you and spider soon nodded your heads in agreement and soon finished the breakfast, that was given and soon went inside the capsules and the transfer took place.

y/n " ummm" you soon open your eyes waking up you soon stepped out of the bed. You soon stepped into the common area of the new home, soon seeing your mom making breakfast and you dad cleaning his blade.

neytiri " good morning my daughter how did you sleep last night"

y/n " I slept well as navi and human still getting use to seeing I'm in a new place"

Jake " don't worry baby girl you will get use to this place soon" you soon saw down on the mats, and soon enough your sibling had come dash into the room.

tuk " y/n you are really here I thought lats night was all a dream" tuk soon hugged you making you laugh as you pat her forehead.

y/n " yes I'm here sweetie"

kiri " when you woke up your bed was already empty so we thought you were gone" you were sharing a room with your sisters, kiri and tuk soon took a sit on the mat.

y/n " I didn't mean to worry anyone I just crawled out of bed and came In here for more breakfast"

lo'ak " so you still have to eat as human and navi"

y/n " yes I have to keep both bodies health and well taken care of as well"

lo'ak " oh"

neteyam " see now we can our family meals as whole family again"

y/n " what do you mean you guys were not eating together"

Jake " we were and there were night your grandmother and uncles came over but it was not the same, we missed having you here and as the barrier between siblings fights"

tuk " kiri and lo'ak will always fight"

y/n " really I'm gone for months and you two fight"

kiri " it was not my fault it was his being a idiot and all that" you just scoffed and shake your head, it was good to be back with your siblings. Once breakfast was over you soon went off with your sibling and spider for the lessons.

Tsireya " it good to have you both here I hope we can help you learn the ways of water"

spider " it cool to finally me here"

rotxo " well come on lets get started" soon the lesson had started all three metkayain teens were very amazed on how, well you and spider could I've and swim.

Aonung " you seem to be a better swimmer and diver then your siblings" The group had decided to take a break and sit down somewhere and just talk and relax. It seem like all the metkayian teens had many question about the two new teens that arrived here just yesterday.

y/n " thank you"

rotxo " so you are two are human as well"

spider " yes we are human as well but we were given this body so we can living a life, like the rest of our families"

rotxo " wow" the group had stayed together talking more and more to each other, along with enjoying each other company as well. You were walking around the village, doing some chores for the family. You were carrying a basket of fruit for the family and your grandmother when you caught, some of the metkayian adults looking at you.

y/n " hello" you had spoke towards a couple who stepped away from you and looked disgusted when you spoke to them. This was something that was not new to you as not that many of the navi, were welcoming toward the humans that were here do to the actions of the RDA.

y/n " well here we go again" you soon sighed and started walking back home there were some navi that gave you a smile, while others just looked at you with disgusted or confusion. You were walking when you had accidentally bumped into a child, it seems like either one of you were paying attention.

y/n " oh I'm sorry" you had help the child back onto their feet and soon collect the fruit, that had fallen.

navi child " it okay I'm sorry as well I was not ...."

navi mom " demon you hurt my child" a navi women soon came towards you hissing at you making you, take a step back you didn't want to do anything to cause a problem. A crowd had form to watched what was taking place right now.

???? " what going on here" everyone soon stopped what they were doing and looked up to see tonowair and your dad standing there, soon Jake saw you and went to you aid.

Tonowari " I asked a question what happened here"

navi women " this demon girl pushed my child over and could of harm my child, that what happened this what we get for only the demon of their clan here first the youngest of them and soon the older ones"

navi man " yes they are all evil why should we allow them to stay"

Jake " y/n what happened"

y/n" I was not paying attention to where I was walking soon I and the kid bumped into each other, I meant no harm dad"

tonowair " this what the girl speak true did anyone witness this" no one was peaking up at the moment, as everyone was very quite or scared to say anything.

tonowari " Jake and y/n I'm so sorry for what has happened here today"

Jake " tonowari i will not have my daughter insult over something she ...."

y/n " dad it okay can we just come home I have to drop these off mom and grandmother" Jake knew his daughter didn't wish to cause anymore trouble and nodded his head, soon escorting her home but it seems like him and tonowair and shared a look about something.

At home

neytiri " how dare that women insult my daughter on her character and actions" sharing with what happened to the rest of the family didn't go well, and now your mom was very mad about the whole situation.

Jake " neytiri"

neytiri " no Jake don't try to clam me down I wont let somebody insult our daughter she never harm a child at home, she was the one that some parents will ask her to babysit their kids for a while"

y/n " mom it okay"

lo'ak " no sis it not okay that women insult you and telling us how they been looking at you with disgust is insult as well on you"

y/n " baby brother it okay I can't change everyone mind about me"

lo'ak " but still sis you are amazing you a good fighter and smart, you take care of our family and people how those that make you a demon"

neteyam " lo'ak calm down" lo'ak soon calm down a bit as the family looked at you.

neytiri " what do you do next Jake they didnt juts insults our daughter they also insult spider and the rest of our clan"

Jake " I will speak with tonowari right now tension are high"

y/n " then I think it for the best I stay with uncle norm and the otter for while until matter die down"

kiri " no we can't lose you and spider again"

y/n " I won't be lost I will be an inland away but I think it will be best if I stay away I don't need my action risking the family and clan safety, and refugee"

Jake and neytiri " ......."

y/n " mom and dad I will be fine I'm not far away and I will have uncle norm, aunt trudy, and spider with me with the rest of our clan"

Jake " fine we trust that norm and trudy will keep you safe"

y/n " mom"

neytiri " you can go my daughter I know you will be safe but we will be checking up on you"

y/n " yes mom"

lo'ak" maybe we cna bring our new friends over as well"

Jake " that will be good but you might want to ask their parents first before you act"

y/n and her siblings " yes sir"

neytiri " come we will eat dinner together before y/n has to leave us" everyone had nodded their head in agreement everyone had family dinner together, it was agreed that you and spider will stay away for a few days until everyone die down. Even due you were not being with them as navi you were still with them as human, and they will make sure to still spend time with you. Everyone and even you were hoping that one day you and the rest of the clan will be able to gain the trust of the rest of the metkayain clan.

[logicsmessystudy]

Day 14 of 31 days until Dissertation Deadline

Another chore day! Welcome to the endless cycle of life!

I danced too much while doing chores today so I'm in pain, but that's my life, I guess.

Today I:

Put my washing in.

Cleared my room of trash (including the many bottles and cans of Diet Coke I accumulate as they wait for recycling day).

Washed up all my dishes so I can start afresh tomorrow.

Finished 'Book 10' of Le Morte d'Arthur and read the entire of 'Book 11'.

Caught a coelacanth in Animal Crossing. This equally as important as yesterday's golden trout but less remarkable since I did use bait.

FaceTimed my bio parent. I got to see the cats - cat time is the most important part of weekly parent FaceTimes.

So a decent amount. Which is nice to see.

See you tomorrow!

[lover-sy]

WHAT I DO WHEN I’M ON MY PERIOD

୨☕️୧

Hi, hii! Today’s post isn’t random because I started my period yesterday and I also got sick so my energy is really drained and I want to share a few tips to maybe help some of you! ( this is the 2nd time I’m writing this so I’m a bit annoyed )

— HYDRATION : you gotta drink A LOT of water during your period. Hydration is already so important as it is but during your period it’s 10x more important

— TEA : first of all shoutout to all my tea girlies. Then, I love drinking tea ( without caffeine!) because it not only makes my cramps better because of the warmth and since i often drink peppermint and ginger ( which is really good during your period ) but i also just convince myself that tea will make me feel better so it does. ( it’a all about the mindset )

— POSITIVITY : I always try to see the good in things which also includes my period. As i told SOME PEOPLE I imagine it as the blood of my enemies.. not i’m kidding. I just tell myself that I can grow a whole human and that it’s gonna be over soon. This isn’t temporary so I shouldn’t complain because I can’t change anything about it by complaining ( I tell myself that with a lot of things. Complaining never helps )

— EATING : I try to get as many vitamins in as possible with veggies, fruits and nuts but fish and chicken is also very good for you!

— VITAMINS/SUPPLEMENTS : i only eat chicken as meat so i’m deficient in a lot of vitamins so i have to take a lot of the most important one during your period is magnesium. Even if you eat a lot of food containing magnesium ( mostly nuts ) you should consider taking some magnesium supplements

— REST : this is the key to not passing out in this week of suffering. Sleep a lot and limit your physical activity ( I’m sorry to my athletes out there. ), instead of going to the gym and doing heavy workouts stay in bed and read a nice book or do chores around the house ( also has you moving )

— MOVE : very contradictory but yoga and a bit of walking can never do harm, i love walking during my period because it makes me feel like I did something but it also doesn’t leave me completely drained from all energy.

— WARMTH : tea, warm baths, heating pads and pets ( my cats keep me warm <3 )

— DISTRACTION : this may differ from person to person but I need a lot of distraction especially when I’m just laying around in bed so I usually read a very captivating book to focus 100% and forget about the pain.

— PEOPLE : I stay in my dark room and when I’m in school talk less because I’m worried that I’ll snap at people but I usually tell my friends that I’m on my period or they figure so there isn’t any misunderstandings

— REMINDERS : you can’t do anything about the fact that you get periods, they’re normal and you shouldn’t feel ashamed about them. People who make you feel that way about them are childish. You weight may vary so don’t panic! ( i don’t weight myself during my period because it’s not my real weight so it’s of no use! ). Your energy is already low so try to stay calm and not waste it on unnecessary things or people. Drama can wait for when you’re ovulating.

[anamoon63]

Hi guys, I am writing this in case anyone wonders why I have been kind of MIA lately. No, I haven't forgotten you, but I have had a difficult week, more than a difficult week, I have been through a real ordeal. Where or how it started it's a long story which I don't have the time or the energy to tell, so I'll just share a brief chronology of what happened during this past week.

Friday May 3 - I turned in my finished work and set out to do my sims posts, play and rest for the weekend since more work would be coming my way on Monday.

Saturday May 4 - My husband came down with the flu, I spent most of the day with him in the emergency room.

Sunday May 5 - I spent it taking care of my husband, who fortunately no longer had a fever. I barely slept two hours at night giving care and medication.

Monday 6 May - My birthday, we couldn't go out for dinner as usual, so we celebrated at home.

Tuesday, May 7 - My son comes down with the flu, too, another afternoon in the ER and sleepless night caring for him and bringing down his fever.

Wednesday, May 8 - My son starts to feel better, and begins to recover very quickly. I start working on the following translations, at the same time I take care of both my husband and my sick son, do food, laundry, order home medicines, and all kinds of small chores, including disinfecting things. It's like going back to 2020.

Thursday, May 9 - My husband no longer has a fever but does have a cough that won't go away and minor problems with his asthma.

Friday, May 10 - Mother's Day, my son was feeling fine, my husband still had a cough, and had a doctor's appointment at noon, when he returned, we celebrated at home just like on my birthday, I spent the rest of the day working, and juggling a thousand other things. In the evening my daughter started to feel sick, but still no fever.

Saturday, May 11 (yesterday) - My daughter woke up with a fever, another visit to the ER. She was prescribed flu medicine, painkillers and rest, and sent home.

And that's my odyssey so far. On top of it all, from Wednesday through Saturday we were in the middle of a heat wave with temperatures of 37ºC with real feel of up to 45ºC; at night we get a "cooler" temperature of 29ºC. So imagine a person with a fever of 38 ºC and with this heat, obviously it's not of much help.

Surprisingly, I haven't gotten sick so far, but I'm not claiming victory. I have been taking care of my family for a week, sleeping two or three hours a night, getting up at different times to check on them, or give them medicine. I don't have time for getting sick! Lol. Thankfully, everyone is better and last night for the first time in a week I was able to sleep straight through. Honestly, I don't need many hours of sleep, but I am routinely and usually I am in bed a 11 pm and up at 8 am every day, so all this did upset my sleep cycle a little bit.

Anyway, that is the reason why I wasn't here much, since the whole day I was too busy, and at night I was so tired all I wanted was to go to bed. I apologize if I've fallen behind on your updates, I'm not ignoring you in any way, I just didn't have the strength or the time, not even to play The Sims. If I did, it was just a little free play to distract myself.

Last week I told you that I was juggling a lot of things, well now I have even more things, lol, at times I feel really exhausted, and even a little cranky from lack of sleep, the first few days my feet and legs hurt so much from going back and forth, but I'm fine, healthy, and in good spirits. Today I believe, as never before, that the universe does not send you more than you can handle.

At this point my family is already in recovery, if I don't get sick too, it's likely by I'll be able to get back to my simming routine. Now, if I do get sick, I hope to recover as quickly as the others. Whatever happens, I'll be around. Know that, even if I don't comment, I read you, and I am with you, especially with those who are going through difficult times of any kind.

Ok, I said to myself this was going to be a short post, but I made a wall of text instead (for a change). My apologies if it's written in a sloppy or confusing way, I just wanted to write it quickly to let you know where I have been and what has been going on with me these days. I hope you are all well, please take care of yourselves, health is a treasure that can be lost at any moment, the flu is a nasty disease, we must never let our guard down and forget to take the necessary measures to prevent it.

Last, but not least, I want to thank all of you who have mentioned me, tagged me, sent me asks and/or stars to my inbox, commented and/or liked what few posts I could do these days, I appreciate it very much and I'll try to reply to you as soon as I can, though I've fallen so far behind that I don't know if I'll be able to find your mentions in my notifications. In any case, thank you very, very much to all of you for thinking about me in my absence. 💗 I'll see you soon, hopefully, with more sim adventures, stay tuned!

[save-the-villainous-cat]

Hi!! I absolutely love your writing!

So... today happens to be my birthday. Could I pretty please get something fluffy as a present?

Five days.

The villain had stayed five days at the hero’s apartment, recovering slowly with the help of their nemesis. It turned out that the hero wasn’t a terrible roommate, they were the exact opposite: doing the dishes seemed more like a hobby than a chore, cleaning the room and decorating the whole place neatly was one of their favourite activities.

Nearly motionless, the villain had watched them rearrange a bouquet of flowers, humming to themselves a content tune that would haunt the villain’s thoughts for the rest of the day. The hero was diligent and careful, making sure the colours in their home could coexist in harmony with every new element they found.

The villain tried to stay as quiet as possible most of the time, hoping the hero would forget about them eventually. Hoping they could turn invisible and be less of a burden. With all the mess they were causing, they didn’t fit into this picturesque world the hero tried to create.

But the hero didn’t forget. Due to their injuries, the villain slept a lot, being out by eight, getting pleasant twelve hours of rest. They were stationed on the comically huge couch, even though the hero had offered them their bed. However, healthy sleeping patterns were unknown to the hero who suffered from a little less than four hours a night. It explained the many naps the hero took on the couch, right next to the villain.

But no matter how many hours the hero slept, they always made sure to eat together with the villain. Every meal, regardless of their grogginess, they sat down next to their enemy and talked about their newest idea to help the city.

“Dunno why I’m telling you,” they said one day while having lunch, spaghetti filling their mouth, “but I really like this new project. Growing more plants in the city?! Love it.”

“Until there’s a villain who can control plants.” The hero’s tired eyes widened as they practically inhaled their lunch. Focus settled on the villain who was trying to eat as gracefully as possible. Once again, they were like a mirror that showed the exact opposite.

“Nonsense. No one can control plants,” they said, bolting the rest of their noodles and meatballs.

“Have seen one,” the villain answered calmly. Damn, the food wasn’t even bad.

“You’re kidding.”

“Am not.” The villain stared at the hero and their poor overworked soul. For days, they’d been rambling about projects and work and on top of that they managed to do the chores and nurse the villain. No wonder they were sleeping every second they allowed themselves to.

“I’ve seen one,” the villain said hastily, getting their thoughts back on track. “South America, somewhere. She’s very old though, so don’t expect her to take over the world.”

The hero’s plate was empty already.

“I didn’t know I could be jealous of some old lady. You travel lots?”

“When I’m not getting shot at, sure.” Something in the hero’s gaze softened, blurring the line between relaxed and hurt. Their eyes dropped to the ground, their shoulders tensed. Fuck. “I like getting shot when it’s you, though.”

What. Oh god, the villain wished they could sink into the ground. I like getting shot when it’s you, what a stupid thing to say. They felt the horrible blush creep up their neck, so they grabbed their tea and gulped it down.

Christ, why were conversations so hard to have?

The hero giggled nervously.

“Well, uh…”

“You need more sleep.” The villain’s face was burning, so they tried to deflect. “You always look tired and sleep throughout the day. What do you do at night?”

Getting the hero’s attention was easy, getting them to talk about important stuff wasn’t. Their nice projects were fun to listen to but when it came to the hero’s desires, to their morals and their longings, the villain didn’t get anything.

“It’s a long story, really,” the hero said. “Did you put that blanket on me yesterday?”

“Yeah, you almost rolled off the couch, too. Gave me nearly a heart attack,” the villain mumbled and it was true. It had made their heart skip for more than one beat. “You don’t have to leave that much space between us.”

“You sure?”

“I’d rather cuddle with you than have you fall off the couch.”

Now it was the hero’s turn to blush.

[fresh-orange-whispers]

MINOR INDULGENCE

So, I finally wrote something about an idea that came to my mind, discussed and shared with my lovely friend @dukeoftheblackstar

Plo Koon in his private chamber.

AO3 link here.

---

Amid the unfriendly chilling air of Coruscant’s night, skyscrapers of the most bustling Galactic City shone brightly with vivid lighting. On the top was the endless circulating skylane, and on the bottom, pedestrians walking along the streets where all forms of life gathered, shuttling between bars, theaters, and clubs to embrace the arrival of the night revelry.

Days like this were not unfamiliar to Plo Koon. Day after day, year after year, now the three hundred and eightieth, dying at the hands of the merciless time that has slipped through his fingers. He traveled between his home planet Dorin, Coruscant and other destinations, for whatever reason. Peaceful life and dangerous missions, two seemingly contradictory concepts, coexisted so harmoniously and equally to him.

Another long-winded Jedi Council meeting, and next to him sat the reputed Master Windu – Mace, a stern, conscientious, reliable man, rigid in the observation of dogmas – who did not seem to have even smiled once since he had known him. Plo Koon used to sit upright in the armchair that belonged to him, with his large hands folded over his chest, fingers intertwined, armored talons resting on the knuckles. He was cautious, calm, and knowledgeable, preferring to listen rather than speak.

It was all about Anakin, again.

Padawan braid long but still a child.

The boy has been proven to be remarkable, despite his young age and impulsive nature. Lately he has been acting quite nervously, in an irrepressible eagerness to show off even more. Plo could hear him speaking out loud and defending his position while challenging Mace Windu's firm authority. Plo had witnessed his potential and the boy had spoken with him many times. He had allowed him to complain, and he understood the enthusiasm sparkling in his bright eyes, that adventurous and carefree attitude unique to a young padawan of worth. He was perhaps the only one on the Jedi Council who could understand that, even if he was no longer young – at least compared to Anakin.

The meeting over, Plo Koon stood up and bowed politely to his fellow Jedi. He was tall and lean, dressed in a long brown robe, the fabric of which draped to his ankles where his boots were barely visible. He had the graceful posture of a scholar and walked like a living Baran Do sage.

Plo had a private chamber in the Jedi Temple, his pristine room on Coruscant where he spent countless dawns and nightfalls. He opened the gas valves near the main door. With a loud hiss, the Dorin gas began to gradually fill the entire confined space.

He must repeat the chore every day. Due to the special composition and functioning of his species’ respiratory system, he had no choice but to pay attention to such trivial matters at all times.

Plo unbuttoned his robe and let the fabric slide off his broad shoulders, revealing his solid chest, clad in a well-crafted light brown tunic with a wide belt at the waist. He had his lightsaber strapped to the belt and a small kit carrying the equipment needed to clean his antiox mask.

He didn't need to clean the mask today since he had already done it yesterday. All he needed now was to rest and relax.

With a few clickings, Plo unhooked the tubes connecting his head to the mask. Extendable, dark pink-orange tendrils wriggled out of the tubes, quickly retracting into the extremities of the sensory organs on either side of his head. He deftly pulled the metal respirator and the goggles off, revealing his bare face. The airtight device had left deep indentations on his face from the prolonged compression — bruises on his orange-brown skin, observable to the naked eye.

He reached up and massaged the stiff muscles of his face, fingers tracing his broad forehead to his protruding cheekbones, then to his gaunt, emaciated visage. Without the barrier of the antiox mask, his facial expression became more evident and clearer — his eyebrows stretched, his gentle silver irises covered in a layer of watery mist — a blessed relief from the constraints.

Plo let out a sigh of relaxation, his voice soft and hoarse without the mask modulator.

Mask, mask.

It was a shame he had to endure that to survive on a planet that wasn't his own. But he never complained, not even once.

He placed the mask in a designated corner of the room, then walked over to the window walls, hands clasped behind his back. Even though he could no longer bathe in the cool breeze of Coruscant's night, he could still look up and appreciate the hazy scenery of the city's brightness and the endless traffic flow in the sky above.

The light and darkness of the night turned into colorful dots, projecting and shining on his face –

A face completely alien to other species.

A pair of dark eyes with silver irises set in its hollow sockets – the hallmark of a Force-sensitive Kel Dor. His nose formed a beak-like structure in the center of his face, beneath which was a large, long vertical gap extending from the nose to the tapered chin. Two pairs of tendrils on either side of his cheeks, thicker than the ones sticking out from his sensory organs, ended in sharp black tusks. As he relaxed physically and mentally, his motionless tusks began to move slightly around his mouth in an easy and casual manner, which was one of the ways the Kel Dors used to communicate with each other.

This face of his was usually hidden under the metal antiox mask, and very few people have seen it.

Plo Koon didn't care about his appearance – that was far from his concern – but he knew that the Kel Dors were not considered an attractive species.

Plo sat cross-legged in front of the massive glass windows. The moonlight streamed through the window walls, forming beautiful rectangular patterns on the spotless floor — an ambiance calm and peaceful. He didn't usually go to crowded places, unless he had to go on crucial missions, gather sensitive information, or meet with important political figures. Even for those tasks, he had to wrap himself in a long, dark cloak from head to toe, doing his best to ensure that no one would recognize his identity as a Jedi.

Meditation.

Through meditation, he could better sense the presence of the Force around him and the power that surged in his veins and bones. Force sensitivity seemed to be an innate superpower, but acquired training was also essential to forging a Jedi Knight. Plo Koon had been fortunate to be favored by the Maker — for the Kel Dors' hypersensitive senses were the cherry on top, setting him apart from other Jedi. He ignited his lightsaber as little as possible, though his swordsmanship was so mastered and precise, strong enough to rival that of the Grandmaster Yoda. Yet, he relied more on his powerful ability to understand than on violence.

A compassionate and unflappable calm man.

And respected by all.

Silence completely reigned the chamber, the Dorin gas had already filled all the corners of the space and the valves had stopped pumping. Plo Koon kept his back straight, like an exquisite statue under the moonlight.

Unconsciously, minute by minute, time fled away, even the humble Jedi Master eventually succumbed to his most basic need for sustenance.

Plo did not eat much, especially in the evening, he usually contented himself with Zand nuts and fruits of the Kand trees. He prepared them already in the morning and put the roll in a clean bowl, placed on the table not far from the windows.

Keeping his body still, he simply waved his right hand. With that gesture, the bowl floated right in front of his eyes, slowly landing between his open palms that were resting flat on his knees.

His silver eyes were still shut, as a piece of nut roll in the bowl rose slowly and steadily. Fine tendrils extended once again from the extremities of the curled sensory organs on the sides of his head, dancing rapidly in the air as if to gauge the distance between him and the food. Until the food reached at the same height as his mouth, his two pairs of tusks began to work. The tips of the tusks staggered over the lips as they fully extended to clamp the food in the air, bringing it into the gaping space of his face in a strange but elegant manner. He then gently pulled his lips back and stuck out the pharyngeal jaws – the upper and lower palates slowly opening to bite off a mouthful of bread.

Piece by piece, Plo enjoyed his rare free time under the pale moonlight. Only when the bowl was empty did he straighten his back and open his eyes, his expression gentle and relaxed.

For other species, the helium-ridden planet Dorin and its strange denizens would indeed remain a mystery, but Plo could have made an exception.

[otherpeoplesheartachept-2]

day 1: A Record of You and I

A diary from the mid 1700s kept by a man named Simon Snow, a farmhand for the Grimm estate. He records the death and the subsequent vampiric transformation of his close friend, and heir to the Grimm estate, Basilton Grimm.

Rating: M

Length: 4,321

Warnings: main character death/undeath. non-graphic (maybe slightly graphic) depictions of violence/blood, mentions of animal death, implied sex

Read on AO3 or below the cut

September 3rd 1742

I've never had a journal before but Basilton tells me it will help with my reading and writing. He's taught me all my letters and wants me to practice on my own now. He says he’ll continue reading to me if I like. He’ll keep helping me with handwriting too, but Basilton insists that having a personal record will do me good. Even so, I do not know what to record. Though I must not waste this lovely gift. Basilton says to write about my day, my thoughts. He must have more thoughts within him than I, for I am already out of things to say, and Basilton adds to his journal at all hours of the day. 

September 6th 1742

Today I milked the cows and took them out in the field to graze. I ate fresh bread with a lot of butter.  I did some other chores. It is late. I do not wish to write more.

September 7th 1742

Today I had porridge for breakfast, and some tasty stew Ebb made for supper. Charlie, the cattle dog, found a new favorite stick out in the pasture today, he hasn't stopped chewing it since this morning.

September 8th 1742

I hope Basil will forgive me for my short entries. It's not as if he’ll read what I put down here. Personal journals are to be personal, he tells me. So I’m just meant to speak to myself? I will keep at it, if only to gain more surety in my handwriting. 

September 9th 1742

It is Sunday, I went to Mass. Basilton came to the cabin after the service. Brought me some scones Vera made. Sir Grimm does not approve of his son spending so much time with a farmhand, Basilton told me of another scolding he got earlier this week. I do not know why he spends time with me, against his father’s wishes, but I will not stop him. We ate lunch together. I enjoyed the food, and the company more. Basilton would call me a liar if he read that, my love of scones is rarely bested by anything, but Basilton is a good friend to me. 

Everything feels so easy with Basil. He can make me laugh no matter what, even when he's poking fun at me. We talked for hours yesterday, and he listened when I spoke about my days, my observations of the cattle. Basil worries I work too hard, but I don't do much really, and I enjoy the labor. Besides, what else am I to do with my time? We discussed a poem Basil had read to me a few weeks ago. I am not usually one for poetry, but Basilton speaks about poems in a way that makes sense to me. I thought him unbearably arrogant when I first started working for his family, speaking of literature constantly and looking down his big nose at me. He still is arrogant at times, but now that we are friends I know he is also kind and caring and truly intelligent. He speaks of his sisters often, and how he worries he won’t meet his father’s expectations. He remains unmarried and this troubles Sir Grimm. 

But Basilton has land to inherit and good social standing. He has many admirable qualities, and it goes without saying that he is handsome. He should have no trouble finding a wife. I said this to Basilton today but he became uncomfortable. Quickly, he brushed it off and picked up a new topic of conversation. This has happened before, I do not know if it’s the subject of marriage, or if he is too modest a man, but many times I have stated his good qualities, only for Basiton to blush and deny them, or leave the conversation. 

September 20th 1742

I ate Turkey for supper yesterday. One of the bulls charged at me today because I looked at him wrong. Bastard. Gareth made me help him till the field today. Another bastard. He said he couldn’t get it done in time without help, despite the crops being his and his sons’ job, and the cattle being mine. 

Went to the pub with Ebb, the goatherd yesterday. She told me a great joke about goats but I was drunk and can't remember it now. I might ask her to tell me it again.  

September 22nd 1742

Today was an easy day, I fiddled with my carving knife while out in the field. Made a little wooden Charlie but when I showed it to him the blasted dog chewed it up. I tried to stop him but then I just laughed. I suppose I’m glad he found my carving nice enough to devour. 

September 30th 1742

Basilton visited today. He brought me some of his books, said I could keep them, since I mentioned how much I liked the last one he read to me. I thanked him for the books, he is so kind to me. I do not know if I will ever read them though. Perhaps I should not have taken them. It’s not that I am ungrateful, I just didn’t know how to tell Basilton I mostly enjoy hearing his voice read to me, more than I care about the contents of the books. I am sad as this probably means he will not continue reading aloud to me. 

October 1st 1742

I’ve not been writing as much as I feel I should. I fear my life is just not that interesting. Basilton tells me it’s plenty interesting. He’ll listen to my stories about cattle and Charlie without complaint. Gareth tells me my stories are boring though. “Who cares if a calf was born with a spot that looks just like a field mouse?” he said to me when I told that story at the pub last week. As if throwing seeds on the ground makes for great stories. 

October 8th 1742

I found some poppies in the field, the first of the fall. I picked a couple of the red flowers. Gave them to Basil when he came round my cottage in the evening. He tried to resist them but I insisted. I told him it was repayment for the books he left with me. That wasn't all true, I just wanted to share the beauty of those little things with him. Basilton accepted the flowers then, I do hope he likes them. I cannot offer him much more, though I wish I had more to give to my friends. 

October 10th 1742

I tried carving a flower out of wood but I cocked it up. I might try again with a thicker stick.

October 12th 1742

The cattle are well. The sun is shortening our days. I heard a bird song I did not recognize today, while out in the field. It was lovely. I must start saving up for a new winter coat, mine is threadbare and has not been keeping me warm enough as the world gets colder. Basilton tells me he’s going deer stalking with his cousins in a few days. He will be gone for at least a month. It will be their first hunt of the season. 

October 15th 1742

Basilton left today. I tended to the cattle. I tried to brush off the sadness that seemed to hang over the day. Perhaps the cloudy days are affecting my mood, or the cold weather. I might just sleep early today. 

October 30th 1742

He died. On that trip he

November 25th 1742

I went to Mass today. I sat alone. I tried to welcome the Holy Spirit but I feel so alone in this world. I grieve Basil every waking moment. I thought this would pass, it’s been nearly a month and still the wound is as fresh as the day I learned of his death. I’ve never had someone to lose before, like this. I loved him deeply, as if he were my own family I have come to realize. I find myself almost grateful that I did not know my parents, that I will not, one day, have to grieve them as well.

The Lord’s Day is the most painful, God forgive my soul for saying so. I cannot distract myself with work. I try to pray, but my mind wanders ever back to my lost friend. I grow tired of writing, but I will not put down this journal forever, Basilton wouldn't want me to.

November 27th 1742

I woke up this morning to something strange. I found one of the cows dead in the field. I hadn’t noticed any signs of sickness in the herd, but there were also no signs of an animal attack. There was no wound I could find, no blood. She looked strange, I cannot say why, though. It was as if something was missing, from beneath the skin. I told Sir Grimm, and the other farmhands, in case there is sickness in the herd. I’ll be keeping a closer watch on the cattle.

November 29th 1742

I visited Basilton’s grave this evening. It did me no good. I only felt the pain of loss much stronger standing there, reading his gravestone. It was as if there were a stake ran through my chest. I could hardly breathe through the sobs that came out of me. It was so strange, knowing Basilton was so close, only two meters or so below where I stood, and yet he was impossibly far. 

It does me little good to dwell on these negative feelings. 

November 30th 1742

I try to fill my days with actions. I inspect the cows twice, three times over, to check for any signs of decaying health. I pace the perimeter of the field while they graze. I help Gareth work the land when I should be resting. I chop enough firewood for this winter and the next two. I stay too long at the pub and drink more than I can afford. I imagine spots in my cabin that need cleaning, and I scrub and scrub and scrub until the pain in my hands is all that I can feel. And yet, I still ache for the companionship of Bailston. What am I to do with myself?

December 1st 1742

I cannot stop thinking of Basilton. Truly, I never stopped thinking of him, even when he was alive and with me. The Grimm family told us he was trampled by his own horse, fell off it while hunting. In quiet moments my mind creates imaginations of his last terrible moments. When I lay in bed, if I am not drunk as a lord, I cannot sleep for hours. I pray to God for a miracle, but my pleas are left unanswered. I know it to be foolish, but I cannot help myself. I would do anything for Basilton. Anything to see him again. 

December 4th 1742

I do not want to write this, but I feel I must. I saw Basilton last night. I know, I know that he is dead, and God willing, he is at peace in heaven. But I came home from the pub late last night, crawled into bed, then, I saw Basil in my room, as if he were alive. He did not look ghostly, no, he looked as if he had new life coursing through him. His skin flush. His smile wide. There were no signs he had ever been dead. 

I cried out, I could not help it. He came to me, to my bed. I sat up to meet him. And he held me. A hand pressed to my chest, the other wrapped around my back. His dark hair against my chin as he rested his face to my collar bone. We did not speak. I feared I would wake from the dream. And it must have been a dream. 

I woke up this morning half expecting to see Basilton about the grounds, as if his death was a nightmare I could finally wake from. But he was not here, of course not. My mind has been so fixed on Basilton it only makes sense he would creep into my dreams.

December 5th 1742

It happened again, last night, I was not asleep this time. I was changing into my night clothes, when Basil appeared to me. I did not hear him come in. My candle cast his shadow against the wall. He must have been standing there as flesh and bone, not as a ghost or a vision. He wore regular clothes, not the burial shroud–made from his own family’s wool–that he was laid to rest in. He had on his purple vest with yellow embroidered flowers. It was one of his favorites, he told me years ago. Again he did not speak, but he touched my hand. He was so cool. a welcome feeling; I was so hot. I pulled him into an embrace. I whispered his name, I did not know what else I could do. I swear to God, he spoke my name in response.

Suddenly I felt so tired, so drained. Likely the day’s work catching up to me. I tried to fight the urge to sleep, but my eyes closed before I could watch Basilton leave, or say anything more to him.

December 6th 1742

Another cow, and one of the bulls have died, for the same mysterious reason as the first cow. The herd was restless yesterday, as if they could sense misfortune in the air, but I could not do anything to prevent their deaths. I do not even know what I need to be protecting them from.  

I am worried, and unsettled.

December 8th 1742

The night before this last I stayed up, hoping to see my old friend again, though he never came. But last night I saw Basilton again. He spoke this time, only my name. My heart filled with joy to hear my friend’s deep voice call me Simon after I was sure we’d never be able to speak to each other again in this life. He sat beside me on the bed. I told him I had missed him. He placed a cool hand on my cheek, looked into my eyes. His were a familiar light grey, but he wore an expression I couldn't make sense of.

Then, he kissed me. I hesitate to write these words. He must be a sodomite. I have always heard such men are evil, but I could never think of Basilton that way. He's always been so lovely. 

And the worst part is that I kissed him back. The best part is that I kissed him back. I have not kissed anyone before. He was so soft against my lips. So cool. His hand held my jaw, and his tongue pressed against my lips. An elation sprung up within me that I cannot describe. I held him tightly, wanting more than anything for this moment to last forever. I couldn’t help but think he should have done this sooner. We should have done this when Basil was still living. 

Oh God! I weep remembering that he is dead. 

Basilton kissed farther down my neck, across my collar bones, left kisses on my chest so hard they hurt. I did not stop him. He didn't go farther than my bosom, but-

I wanted him to. I felt as if under a spell, wrapped up in a world of pleasure balanced by the slightest pain. I wanted more, wanted all of him , but before I knew it I was awake, and alone, as the morning sun shown through my window. 

I was slow in my work today. Gareth noticed, told me I should not be so lazy. My body betrays me, I feel so weak.

December 13th 1742

Basilton visits me nightly now. I welcome his touches, his hard kisses. I walk through my days now, dreaming of night. 

The cows have begun to distrust me, they put up a fight when I try to milk them, and a few are no longer eating. I do not know why. Sir Grimm, despite having experience with livestock, seemed just as perplexed as I when I brought up the strange deaths and behaviors of his herd. Though, I know his mind is elsewhere, the mourning clothes he and Madam Grimm wear are a constant reminder of their loss.

I hear whispers at the pub of ghost sightings. I hear gossip from the house servants that the Grimm children wake up screaming in the nights now. 

December 19th 1742

The weather gets worse. I feel frozen to the bone. My hands hurt daily. My work gets harder, as more animals under my care drop dead, and my strength seems to dwindle with each moment. The waking world has no joy, no pleasure left. But I go through each day, waiting for night. Only at night can I remember what happiness is. Basilton comes to me. He holds me, and we kiss for hours. Basil leaves marks and bruises on my skin but I welcome it. My hands praise the skin he uncovers for me. We commit sins I never knew could bring such pleasures. 

December 20th 1742

I admit, I have not allowed myself to consider how or why Basilton appears to me alive, when I know he was laid in his grave two months ago. I just cannot think of it, I cannot search for reasons to distrust this gift I have. I may be a fool, or a doomed sodomite, but I cannot find it in me to fight what is happening. I cannot consider this to be anything but good or I might truly lose myself. 

December 24th 1742

Last night was disturbing. Basilton came to my room as usual. We kissed, and lay together, and I felt so joyous, but quickly the tides turned. He pinned my naked body to the bed. He sat over me and tore at my flesh with his bare hands. I cried out but I could not stop him. Some dark part of me did not want to stop him. Basilton lapped up the blood that poured from my chest like a starved dog. The unGodly sight did things to me. As if possessed by something, I craved his bloodshed.

I do not know what is wrong with me. 

I awoke with deep wounds on my chest. A mess of horror and lust arose within me as I touched the raised flesh, the dried blood. I know this is not natural, this is not holy. I should seek out a doctor, or a priest, but I can't stand the thought of losing my dear Basil again. I would open up a vein for him. I would tie our hearts together for eternity if it meant Basilton could be mine. 

December 25th 1742

It is Christmas Day. A holiday that should be full of cheer. Basil once told me it was his favorite holiday, so it holds an extra special meaning for me. I wish he had been here, enjoying the day. I try not to be too sad, he will be here soon, arriving with the stars in the sky.  

Ebb spent the day with me. I gave her a small wooden goat I carved. She does not say it but I know she misses her brother most around this time of year. I tried to be there for her, as I pretended not to notice the tears running down her red cheeks. But I found it hard to care. All my thoughts were consumed by anticipation for my next visit with Basilton. I know that is terrible. I tried to fight it, to focus on the friend I had with me at the moment, but I struggled. My mind, and my heart are trapped in a world with only Basilton and myself. A world no one else could understand. 

December 26th 1742 

Basilton attacked me again last night. My neck, chest, and stomach are covered in signs of his violent affection. Oh my dear God, I try to feel remorse, to summon disgust at our actions, but it is just not there within me. My mind is a haze of painful pleasure, my thoughts, along with my flesh and blood, fully consumed by Basilton. He is a fallen angel. He is a monster, and I must be one as well, but I have no will to change that. 

I love him. I’ll love him no matter what we become. 

I found more cattle dead this morning. Now nearly a third of the herd is gone. This time they have markings to match the wounds on my chest. 

I told Ebb about the deaths, she told me a few goats have passed as well. I will tell the baronet tomorrow. 

December 27th 1742

I went to tell Sir Grimm about the dead cows this morning. 

In the manor I overheard the baronet and baronetess speaking of another attack last night. I stopped myself short of the doorway into Sir Grimm’s study. I stood in the hallway, slowing my breath to hear them through the door. 

“Mordelia saw Basilton again last night. He hurt her, picked her up and left scratches on her back,” Daphne said to Malcolm. Sir Grimm stated he’s seen their son some nights as well. I became jealous upon hearing these words, at learning I was not the only one Basil is giving attention to. A foolish thought, of course he would want to see his family. But they spoke of him in fearful tones. They do not know my sweet Basil is only full of love. 

“He is a vampire,” Sir Grimm said. I had to stop myself from crying out. Madam Grimm gasped, begged him no. Sir Grimm mumbled something comforting. “It must be done. He’s not our son anymore, Daphne, he is an evil creature.” 

A vampire. The livestock dying, the frightened children, and my nightly visits from Basilton, all signs of a vampire. Dear God, Basil did not deserve such a fate!! I know what they will do to him: dig up his grave, stake his heart, cut off his head, and burn him to ashes. 

He will be gone forever. 

I cannot bear the thought! 

I know now what I must do, and I must do it quickly. 

Later on the 27th

Hastily, I have made my preparations. I could not risk Sir Grimm getting to Basilton first. I am prepared to go tonight. 

December 28th 1742

I went to Basilton’s grave late last night. I was the only soul awake besides the owls. I brought along a lantern, a shovel, a small pack with all my coin and what few possessions I care to keep, and a small wheelbarrow I took from the barn. The light of my lantern guided me through the familiar trees and headstones, until I found the name Basilton Grimm carved into stone. 

The rain poured down endlessly. The wet earth offered little resistance to my shovel, but digging was not quick work. The wind put out my lantern thrice. I gave up relighting, nothing would stop me. I had a singular purpose. I felt as if I’d been guided here, to this moment, to save my love. 

After hours of labor, my shovel kissed the wood of a coffin, I nearly collapsed from relief, and exhaustion. Prying the lid from my Basil’s prison was harder than I had expected. Once I had it off, I threw it from the hole. 

I wept. There was my dearest Basilton asleep in his coffin. I relit the lantern. I fell to my knees, sharing the cramped space with him. The light revealed a blood-stained mouth and burial shroud. His hair was a little longer, more lustrous than in life, his skin ruddy and plump. I worried I would find his face smashed, his body mangled from horses’ hooves, but he was unmarked and as beautiful as ever. His hands were free from his shroud, also bloody. 

These are all signs of a vampire, but I could not care. I had to reach out to touch his cold flesh.

I had to kiss him. 

My lips met his, and in that coffin, surrounded by earth, over the sound of the attacking rain, Basil softly moaned. I swear I heard it. I swear his lips moved against mine.  

Elated with indescribable joy I tried to wake him more, desperate for proof he really was living. He did not open his eyes, or speak to me, or move. But when I pressed my ear to his chest I heard the drum of his heart beat steadily. 

My sweet Basilton alive! Now that I have him, I will let no harm come to him. I will keep Basil safe from those who want to kill him again. 

It is early morning now, the sun is just starting to peak over the land in the East. This will be my last entry. I shall leave my journal here, in my Basilton’s empty grave, in case anyone is searching for us. I care not who reads these words, they will not find us. I will be far away, with my love, finally happy. 

(A note placed in the back of the journal)

Dearest Simon, 

I hope this journal will be of use to you. I do believe keeping a journal will help you continue improving your literacy. And perhaps it will aid in other ways. I find it helps to have a private place for one's thoughts and feelings. My journals are a great comfort to me. 

Beyond that, I must admit I do enjoy the thought that there will be a record of you and of I. That people may know who we were, and that we were good friends.

Yours truly, 

Tyrannus Basilton Grimm

[aishangotome]

Minamoto no Yoshitsune: Chapter 4

♡———♡

Read Chapter 3 here.

♡———♡

Yoritomo: I’m the man who tried to kill his own brother.

A shiver ran down my spine, and at the same time, I felt like something was connecting in my head…

(Ah…!)

Yoshitsune: —Contradictions exist within everyone.

Yoshitsune: There is only one person I know who can cut that down.

(Maybe…)

(Could it be that Yoshitsune-sama was talking about Yoritomo-sama...?)

Yoritomo: Well then. Shall we end the conversation here? I'll inform Kagetoki about the job.

Yoshino: Ah, yes...! Thank you very much.

I stopped my thoughts, which probably wouldn't lead to an answer, and bowed to Yoritomo-sama.

(In any case, I feel like I've made some progress.)

-

Thus, my new life gradually changes its colors...

Kagetoki: Yoshino, please check and sort these scrolls as I taught you yesterday.

Yoshino: Understood!

(I'll do my best to help today too.)

Following Kagetoki-san's instructions, who is mainly responsible for the shogunate's internal affairs, I've been doing simple chores like organizing documents and taking minutes of meetings for the past few days.

(If I make a mistake, Kagetoki-san will calmly question the cause, so I have to be careful!)

I spread the scroll on the desk with a bit of nervousness.

The scroll I was given was a record of the calculations for the necessary troops and provisions for the battle with Yoshitsune-sama.

Yoshino: We need this much food...

Kagetoki-san, who was sitting across from me, reacted to my murmured words.

Kagetoki: This battle will be larger than ever before.

Kagetoki: We need to gather them from various places and prepare them in abundance.

(Even so, I'm surprised that they've calculated everything down to such detail.)

The scroll also detailed the number of soldiers needed to transport the provisions.

(Just to transport the provisions, this many people are needed!)

Yoshino: It must be really tough to fight a war.

Kagetoki: Of course it is. It's not just about fighting.

Kagetoki: If we run out of provisions on the way, the lives of the soldiers will be in danger.

Kagetoki: We need to secure the routes and personnel for transporting provisions, and then build our tactics based on that.

Kagetoki: Naturally, we also need information about the enemy.

Yoshino: ...It's like the battle starts from the preparation stage...

Kagetoki: Yes. There's no room for delays or misjudgments.

(I see, even one mistake could cost many lives...)

Kagetoki-san's words, which always sound harsh, seem to take on a different meaning when I hear these kinds of stories.

(Kagetoki-san doesn't compromise because he thinks so deeply about the shogunate.)

Kagetoki: What is it? Why are you staring at me?

Yoshino: N-no.. it's nothing. I'll let you know when I'm done.

I hurriedly returned my gaze to the scroll and started working.

About an hour later...

Morinaga: Hey, you're working hard.

Tamamo: I brought you a reward.

Yoshino: Ah, Morinaga-san! And Tamamo too.

(They came to check on me...!)

Tamamo and Morinaga-san visited me, carrying a furoshiki bundle in their hands.

Kagetoki-san, still looking at the scroll, replied to them.

Kagetoki: Eating and drinking in the archives is prohibited.

Tamamo: Don't be so stiff. I had the best shops in Kamakura make these sweets.

Yoshino: Eh, you had them made...? Tamamo did?

Tamamo: I asked my favorite shop. I thought I'd let you try them too.

Yoshino: You already have a favorite shop!?

(Even though you haven't been in Kamakura for long.)

Tamamo: Building a foundation is essential for a fun life.

Tamamo: Sweet shops, restaurants, kimono shops... Oh, and recently I've made more acquaintances at gambling dens too.

Yoshino: Even gambling dens...?

(His range is too wide!)

Kagetoki: Morinaga, the gambling den was your doing, wasn't it?

Kagetoki: Refrain from taking an already suspicious creature to a suspicious place.

Tamamo: How rude to call this nine-tailed fox a suspicious creature.

Morinaga-san laughed nonchalantly next to Tamamo.

Morinaga: Tamamo is a good gambler, and it's fun to take him along.

Tamamo: Morinaga is also surprisingly strong, despite his fluffy appearance.

(Morinaga-san is good at gambling. It's surprising, but somehow I can imagine it...)

Kagetoki: You two are a troublesome combination.

Kagetoki-san said flatly, moving the scroll from the desk.

Kagetoki: Well, if the offering is sweets, I'll accept them. Bring them out.

Kagetoki: Yoshino, let's take a break.

(Huh? He said 'eating and drinking in the archives is prohibited' earlier.)

Yoshino: Do you like sweets?

Tamamo: The epitome of unexpectedness. Your personality should be more suited to savory foods.

Kagetoki: I don't particularly like them.

Kagetoki: Sweets enhance brain function. Consuming them is a result of prioritizing work efficiency.

Yoshino: That's your reason!?

Kagetoki-san continues to speak with a straight face.

(He's serious. It's very much like him...)

Kagetoki: Since we're at it, I'll bring out the ones I carry with me too.

(What is this...!?)

A mountain of tsubaki mochi (camellia rice cakes) appeared from the opened furoshiki cloth.

Kagetoki-san calmly piled them up on the desk.

Yoshino: Oh, isn't that too much?

Kagetoki: This is normal.

(...Is it really?)

Kagetoki: Since we're stopping work, it's better to take in sugar all at once.

Yoshino: Huh?

Tamamo: Who can eat this much tsubaki mochi?

Tamamo complained while sitting down next to Morinaga-san.

Kagetoki: You're a luxurious fox. If you insist, I don't mind sharing my mizuame (starch syrup) with you.

Tamamo: ...Oh? What do you want me to do with mizuame?

Tamamo narrowed his eyes, unusually wary.

Kagetoki: Eating it with mizuame will increase the sweetness even more. The taste will also change, so you won't get tired of eating it, right?

Yoshino: What an extreme idea...!

Morinaga: That's Kagetoki for you.

(The way he dismisses it with a single word, Morinaga-san is quite easygoing...)

Tamamo: Kagetoki, you... don't put mizuame on my sweets, absolutely not.

As Tamamo was admonishing Kagetoki-san while taking out the contents of his furoshiki, footsteps approached.

Shigehira: What are you all doing here?

(Shigehira-san!)

Tamamo: Oh, Shigehira. Did the smell lure you here?

Shigehira: What smell? I just came to return the book I borrowed...

Shigehira, holding books under his arm, looked at the desk and opened his eyes wide in surprise.

Shigehira: ...What's with that mountain of tsubaki mochi!?

(Ah, a good reaction... I knew it.)

Morinaga: It's Kagetoki's.

Shigehira: Ah, the usual... as always, prioritizing efficiency.

Kagetoki: You came at the right time, Shigehira. Let's give you some too.

Shigehira: No, I'm working, so I'm fine...

Morinaga: Come on, come on. Take a break, take a break.

Shigehira: W-wait...

Morinaga-san, with a smiling face, put his hands on Shigehira's shoulders and forcibly made him sit down.

Tamamo: Shigehira, we have sweets here too.

Morinaga: You can eat as much as you like.

Shigehira: Please stop talking to me like I'm a child.

Shigehira-san, trapped between the two, sighed in resignation.

Our eyes met, and he gave me a slightly annoyed look.

Shigehira: Just so you know, I didn't bring any sweets as a gift.

Yoshino: It's okay, don't worry about it!

(That's what you're concerned about? You're so serious and conscientious...)

Tamamo: Well then, let's eat.

Yoshino: Yes! Let's dig in.

The sweets Tamamo and the others had prepared were kinton (sweet mashed chestnut).

My face naturally brightened at the sight of the many tsubaki mochi and kinton.

(They both look delicious!)

I took a bite of a tsubaki mochi, and a gentle sweetness filled my mouth.

Yoshino: This is so delicious!

Kagetoki: Is that so? I get them from the closest shop to the Imperial Palace, so if you like them, it's easy to get more.

Yoshino: Even the location of the shop is rational...

(He's thorough.)

As I admired him, Tamamo offered me a plate.

Tamamo: Yoshino, you should try my recommendation too.

Tamamo: This kinton is made by a craftsman with decades of experience using the finest ingredients.

Yoshino: Thank you! I'll try the kinton now...

Yoshino: Wow, what an elegant taste!

Tamamo: Right? That shop makes other fine sweets too.

Yoshino: Wow... Tamamo, you're a yokai fox, but you're quite the gourmet.

Tamamo: I don't need nutrition like humans, but... food is my entertainment.

Tamamo: Delicious food pleases my tongue.

Tamamo: I'll take you there sometime, Yoshino.

Yoshino: Really? I'm looking forward to it!

(I've heard Kamakura is a lively town, I'd like to see it too!)

Yoshino: Even so... Tamamo, you're amazing, you've already settled into life in Kamakura so well.

Tamamo tilted his head at my words, which were tinged with envy.

Tamamo: But I hear you're often talked about among the samurai.

Yoshino: Eh? Why?

Morinaga: Ah. It's because you've been treating their injuries after training recently, right?

(I have been doing that as part of my work at the Imperial Palace...)

I blinked in surprise.

Shigehira: ...I heard that at the training grounds, they're fighting over who gets treated by you first.

Yoshino: W-what?

(I had no idea...!)

Kagetoki: What a pointless competition.

Morinaga: It's a group of men, after all. Girls have never approached the training grounds before.

Morinaga: Well... if they want to be treated that badly, it means I can be stricter with them, right?

Yoshino: ...Morinaga-san, your smile is a bit scary.

(Morinaga-san''s training is really merciless... even though he's usually so kind.)

Yoshino: But, even if they want to be treated, there's only so much I can do, and I haven't done anything major.

Tamamo: But I'm sure the orders for medicine within the Imperial Palace have increased, haven't they?

Yoshino: Yes, little by little...

Thankfully, I've made more acquaintances while working at the Imperial Palace, and they call on me when they need medicine.

(I'll have to wait until I break my contract with Tamamo to open my own shop, but...)

(I'm so happy to be able to work as a pharmacist like this!)

Shigehira: Even so...

Shigehira-kun glanced at me while eating tsubaki mochi.

Shigehira: It's a big deal just to go to war, but it's crazy to volunteer to be worked hard like that.

Yoshino: I-is that so?

Shigehira: I can't understand it.

Shigehira: Even though you took on the pharmacist job yourself... Kagetoki-san also readily gave you work.

Kagetoki: Unfortunately, I'm the type to use anything that's available.

Morinaga-san rested his cheek on his hand and looked at Kagetoki-san with amusement.

Morinaga: So, how is it? How is Yoshino's work?

Kagetoki: Well...

(Uh...)

I flinched as his gaze pierced through his glasses.

(Especially when I first started, I didn't know the ropes and caused Kagetoki-san a lot of trouble...)

Kagetoki: Since she hasn't run away, it seems she at least has guts.

Tamamo and Shigehira: .....

Yoshino: Huh?

Morinaga: Many vassals have their spirits broken by Kagetoki's strictness.

Kagetoki: She doesn't particularly excel at anything, but she seems to have good discipline.

Tamamo: Hey, can't you praise her a little more properly?

Morinaga: No. It's rare for Kagetoki to say this much.

(Oh... I guess I can take that as a small sign of approval...)

Yoshino: Thank you very much, Kagetoki-san!

Kagetoki: I don't recall doing anything deserving of thanks. I'll continue to work you hard, so be prepared.

Yoshino: ...I'll do my best, so please go easy on me.

Even as I replied, a warmth spread through my chest.

(I hope I can gradually get to know the people of the shogunate like this.)

Even though I've only helped out a little, I'm starting to understand how the samurai are approaching the battle with conviction.

Shigehira: Hmm...

Tamamo: Good for you, Shigehira.

Shigehira: Huh?

Tamamo: You came to check on Yoshino, worried that Kagetoki might be bullying her, didn't you?

Shigehira: ...

(What does that mean?)

Tamamo: You said it earlier, right? That you came to return a book.

Shigehira: Yes, and then I just happened to find everyone here.

Tamamo: Is that so? But you seemed to be looking for Yoshino earlier.

(He's lying!?)

Shigehira: You were watching!? ...It's not like that, it's just Tamamo's imagination.

Morinaga: Shigehira is so cute.

Shigehira: Stop with the malicious jokes... ugh!

(W-wait...)

Morinaga-san shoved a tsubaki mochi into Shigehira-san's mouth as he was about to retort.

Morinaga: Now, now, now. Here, have a sweet and calm down.

Shigehira: Mmm...

Shigehira-san glared at Morinaga-san with a resentful look, perhaps because his mouth was full.

Yoshino: S-Shigehira-san, are you alright? Do you need some tea?

Shigehira: ...Being kind won't make me approve of you.

Yoshino: I'm not thinking about that. But...

(If what Tamamo said is true, I want to thank him properly.)

I turned to Shigehira-san and bowed my head.

Yoshino: Thank you for your concern.

Yoshino: I accepted the job at the Imperial Palace for my own reasons, and I haven't achieved any real results yet...

Yoshino: But recently, I feel like I've gotten closer to everyone through my work, and I'm happy about that.

Shigehira: ...Oh, really.

Yoshino: Yes!

I'm probably not mistaken that Shigehira-san's ears, turned away from me, are slightly flushed.

Tamamo: You've become quite positive.

--CHOICES--

I hope so

I do not think so?

Not yet

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

Yoshino: I hope so.

(I feel like my thoughts are gradually settling.)

(If it were now... could I have given a different answer than before?)

(But...)

Ironically, it was Yoshitsune-sama, my greatest enemy, who gave me the opportunity to change.

(The next time we meet will be on the battlefield. I need to make up my mind before then.)

Such days continued...

-

As I was walking down the corridor after finishing some work, I passed by some maids.

Maid 1: Are you going to the festival later?

Maid 2: Of course! I was invited by someone I've been interested in, so I'm really looking forward to it.

(The festival... Oh right, it's being held in town today.)

(I don't have anything to do after this, maybe I'll go.)

-

(Wow...!)

I walked through the evening streets of Kamakura, listening to the festival music.

Lanterns were hung from the eaves, and the stalls were bustling with people.

(It's fun just walking around like this.)

(I wanted to invite others too, but...)

(I decided on the spur of the moment, so I couldn't.)

(Everyone is probably busy preparing for the war anyway.)

As I walked, the smell of food from the stalls tickled my nose.

(I haven't had dinner yet, maybe I'll buy something. Let's check out the different stalls!)

After browsing a few stalls, I bought some dango (rice dumplings).

(I'm a little tired.)

While avoiding the crowds, I somehow ended up behind the shrine.

(It's a bit scary because there's no one around...)

As I tried to hurry back...

Samurai 1: Hey, hey, are you alone, miss?

Samurai 2: It's a lonely festival to be alone, right? We'll play with you.

(Who are these people...?)

Suddenly, I was surrounded by several men who had called out to me from the darkness with rough voices.

(They have swords at their waists, and judging by their appearance, they're probably ronin...)

Samurai 3: We just arrived in Kamakura tonight, so we don't have anyone to play with either.

(Oh no, what should I do...?)

Yoshino: Excuse me... I'm with someone.

I lightly bowed my head and tried to pass by, but...

Samurai 1: Don't be so scared, okay?

Samurai 2: Being alone in a place like this, you must have been expecting something, right?

Yoshino: No...

My arm was roughly grabbed and pulled towards them.

Yoshino: Let me go!

I tried to shake them off, but they wouldn't budge.

Samurai 2: Relax. We'll be gentle.

Yoshino: No, someone, please...

Just as I was about to be dragged into the bushes...

???: It's quite sinful to take advantage of a woman at a festival.

A calm voice echoed from somewhere.

(Huh?)

Samurai 1: Who's there!?

The next moment, someone jumped down from a tree.

???: This way.

Yoshino: Ah...

My arm was quickly pulled, and I bumped into the person's chest.

I looked up in confusion, but...

(A fox mask...?)

The man wearing a fox mask distanced himself from the ronin and stepped forward, shielding me.

Samurai 1: W-Who are you!?

???: I'm no one worth mentioning.

Samurai 2: Don't mess with us! Give us back the woman!

Yoshino: Watch out!

The ronin, their eyes gleaming, drew their sword in unison and lunged at the man.

(Eek...!)

???: If you insist on attacking, I have no choice.

???: --Prepare yourselves.

With a flash as he gripped the hilt of his sword...

Samurai 1: "Gah..."

In an instant, several swords were knocked away.

Yoshino: No way...

(T-This fierce swordsmanship... I remember it.)

(Not just that, but the voice I've been hearing...)

(It can't be... but...)

As the stunned ronin slowly backed away, the man in the fox mask stepped forward.

Samurai 2: R-Retreat!

One of them shouted, and they all started running away.

After watching them leave, the man in the fox mask silently turned his back to me.

(Ah, he's leaving!)

Yoshino: U-Um...

Yoshino: Yoshitsune-sama...?

???: ...

When I called out to him hesitantly, the man turned around and removed his mask...

Yoshitsune: How did you know?

He tilted his head in wonder.

.

.

.

.

.

Chapter 5

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[study-with-aura]

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

I feel like my posts have been dry lately, specifically my study photos. It's not a bad thing. It merely forces me to get a little more creative with my setup. In my defense, I have been taking these photos later than usual, usually right before I post (I adjust the temperature and use my regular filter 'blossom' so it doesn't look dull). I did buy washi tape, so maybe I can utilize that somehow once it gets here. The ones I got are so cute! I can't wait to show them to all of you!

As mentioned in yesterday's post, I will not be posting again until Sunday, but I will still have my phone to check in on the app. I am really excited for the weekend overnight! I never get to do too much with the youth group because of ballet during the academic year and camps over the summer that run into youth night, so this will be a good thing! I'm really close with the other girls my age in the youth group, and even a few that are a couple of years older. Other than Sundays, we don't really see much of each other.

Oh! And in final news, I have an interview for this really cool leadership project that involves media, event planning, fundraising, and even community service! It's all volunteer and the commitment is only 2-3 times a month on the weekends, so it fits my availability. But it feels like going out for a job! I need two letters of recommendation, had to fill out an application, and now I have an interview. I am really excited, and I really hope I get it! I'm not sure how many people actually apply, but the applicants are very limited in the fact that you have to identify as a girl, be in the last three years of high school, be regularly involved with a church, and you have to meet certain academic requirements outside of grade level whether that be through GPA, extracurricular leadership, sports leadership, or whatever. Plus you have to live within a certain vicinity because it's only available to girls in that community since it's for that community. And they accept around 30 applicants, so the possibility of me being accepted is actually quite high. The interview is next week, and I'm a little nervous, but I'm also looking forward to the experience.

I'm off to get ready for bed. Have a great weekend everyone, and I will see you again on Sunday! 💛💛💛

Tasks Completed:

History 9 - Learned about impressionism in music + learned about Claude Debussy + studied Debussy's Prelude of The Afternoon Faun, Claire de lune, and Voiles

KA GRF Algebra 2 - Completed Unit 4: Lessons 3-5 + Unit 4: Quiz 3

Duolingo - Studied for approximately 30 minutes (Spanish + French + Chinese) + completed daily quests

Piano - 60-minute piano lesson + practiced for two hours in one hour split sessions

Reading - Read pages 125-162 of The Luminaries by Susan Dennard

Chores -  None today

Activities of the Day:

Morning yoga

Swimming

Personal Bible Study (Psalms 25)

Church youth group

Journal/Mindfulness

[sonadorayluchadora]

Yesterday I woke up and hour early before my fiance so I can be a better woman, I did what I thought I should. So many saintly women- mothers, wives, and even daughters- wake up early. So I did

I laid out our clothes, washed dishes, folded laundry, made breakfast etc etc

But it made no difference in the day.

I was such a hypocrite. In my heart I've judged those who believe a bullshit 1950's trad wet dream is peak Christianity. But I, in effect, had the same sentiment.

So today I woke up early, made breakfast and did my prayers, something I didn't do the morning hour the day before.

My priest had advised me long ago to do 10 prostrations according to every one person's action I judged. I nearly fell asleep prostate, I was so weak and tired.

I realized this is truly what a saintly woman is.

And boy could I barely take it.

Not only is the "trad" route ineffective, and probably a bit harmful and DEFINITELY prideful- but way easier. Slothful.

It is much more difficult to do prostrations for those whom you've judged at 5am in the dark trying not to wake your fiance up and get up each up you've fallen on your face still praying the Prayer of the Heart both in your mouth and in your heart- than it is to do some mundane chores.

[missgurrl]

Hoofprints - Chapter 1

Summary: You are the live-in stable hand at Peña Ranch. What happens when the owner of the ranch’s son, Javier, comes back to town? Will you finally be able to open yourself up to love and trust after being hurt?

Word count: 1346

A/N: This is my first try at an actual fic! Kind words and constructive feedback welcome. Every like, reblog, and comment is appreciated and I am happy to add you to a taglist❤️

Read on AO3 Chapter 2

There is something so peaceful about being the first one in the barn at the start of a new day. The sun was just barely peaking over the horizon when you grabbed a bale of hay to start feeding out to the horses. You had been at this job for a little over a year now and were satisfied with your steady routine.

Two years before you landed this job, you wondered if you would ever be happy again. You felt as if your world crumbled at the snap of someone’s fingers. That someone was your ex-fiance. When he cheated on you 3 months before your wedding date, you knew you had to get away. It didn’t need to be far, but you did need a fresh start. After some much needed TLC and spending time healing from your heartbreak at your parents’ house, you found a job listing on Craigslist of all places. A stablehand was needed in a town called Laredo - about an hour from you. It was the perfect opportunity because not only would you be able to live on the property rent free, but you also could bring your dog with you. As a lifetime horse rider whose dreams had been hindered due to finances growing up, you were eager to accept the position.

You bonded with the owner of the ranch, Chucho, and felt as if you knew him your whole life. He was friendly and caring, but also had a no-nonsense attitude which you appreciated. Many days were spent in the saddle with light chit chat and laughter along Chucho. He always invited you into his home for dinner and asked if you wanted to tag along for his weekly trip to the feed store. You could sense his loneliness, probably because you were no stranger to loneliness yourself. He talked about “his boy” and how he was off “fighting the bad guys” in Colombia often. You could see how proud he was of him by the gleam in his eyes.

It had been a long day in the Texas sun. A herd of cows got out on your lunch break and Chucho was nowhere to be found, so you had to wrangle them back into their pasture by yourself. Thankfully you had your cattle dog Gizmo and trusty horse Whiskey to help, though. Once you were done with afternoon chores all you could think about was taking a cool shower to wash the sweat and grime of today’s work off you.

After your shower, you changed into a sports bra and soft athletic shorts. You left your hair wet since the only thing calling your name tonight was your ceiling fan and a new movie you picked up yesterday from Blockbuster. Tonight was the night that Chucho met with the Agricultural Society, so you turned the burner on to make a simple grilled cheese.

The sound of knocking on your door startled you since you thought you were the only one on the ranch. Gizmo barked as you made your way over to the screen door.

Standing before you was the face of a man you had never met before, but he did look oddly familiar. He was wearing a pair of aviators along with tight jeans and a pink button-up shirt. He had dark, thick hair, a mustache, and was holding a casserole dish with tinfoil over it. You audibly gulped before putting a smile on your face to greet him, hoping he didn’t notice the way you were looking at him.

“Hey, I’m Javier. My pop wanted me to bring you dinner since he has his meeting tonight” he said. He reached his free hand out to you but couldn't pull his eyes away from looking at you up and down from behind his sunglasses.

Duh. This is Javi. He’s even more handsome in person.

You gave Javier your name and thanked him for walking your dinner over to your modest guest house. He took his sunglasses off and stuck them in his shirt pocket, and you couldn’t help but notice how beautiful his dark eyes were.

“Well, enjoy your dinner” he said while shifting his balance from his heel to his toe.

“Did you eat yet?!” you blurted out before thinking.

“Uh, no I haven’t” he replied with a tilt of his head. You stepped aside to let him in and then realized what you were wearing. Feeling self-conscious, you told Javier to take a seat and that you’d be right back. You hurried to your room and scrambled to find a pale blue tank top to throw over your sports bra and threw your hair into a messy bun.

“Sorry, I wasn’t expecting company tonight or else I wouldn’t have looked like this” you said, avoiding his gaze while you grabbed two plates and utensils from your cupboard.

God, this is so awkward. Act normal!

Javier cleared his throat and said, “You’re fine. My pops wasn’t even expecting me. Called him from the airport last minute this morning for a ride,” he chuckled.

The awkwardness in the room seemed to dissipate when you both found something to talk about.

“Oh wow, I bet he was so excited to see you, though. He talks about you all the time,” you said with a smile on your face as you sat down across from him at the table.  

Javier looked up at you and grinned, “I’ve heard a lot about you too, ya know. He said that you’re a great worker and I think that he’s really enjoyed your company”.

You looked down at your plate with a smile on your face and muttered how nice of him that was to say.

The rest of the dinner consisted of you filling Javier in on all the updates at the ranch. You talked about how the old animals were doing as well as some of the new horses you got in during his absence. Javier admired how passionate you were about your work, and it was refreshing for him to see your enthusiasm about something so pure. After many years of Hell in Colombia, seeing your face light up while talking about the new colt Chucho got for you to train, “Beau”, almost made his heart swell. Yet, he still tried to ignore that feeling.

After finishing your dinner, you got up and took his plate to put in the sink.

“Sorry, I’ve totally been babbling on and on about these horses. I’m guessing you aren’t into this stuff as much as I am since you chose a different career path,” you apologized.

Javier shook his head and asked, “Why do you say that? I’m enjoying being filled in on everything I missed while I was gone.” He smiled again and you watched the way his chest was rising and falling. He just kept his eyes on you and suddenly you could feel all the blood rushing to your face. How was he making you feel this way? You acknowledged the fact that you hadn’t really had any experience with men since your dreaded ex-fiancé and chalked it up to that.

All you could manage was a giggle and a small “okay” in return.

The sun was starting to set for the night, so you mentioned how you had to be up early for chores and that you’d walk him to the door.

“It was nice meeting you, Javier. You’re welcome over anytime. I don’t get many visitors besides your dad” you chuckled and hoped that you weren’t being too forward. It would be nice to have another friend. If that friend was extremely attractive, well, that was just a plus… right?

“Javi. You can call me Javi,” he said softly. He took a deep breath before turning to the door. Looking over his shoulder he called your name and said, “Thanks for taking care of my pop while I was gone. I really appreciate it.”

“Of course,” you responded gently, “night Javi.”

You watched him walk back to the main house with a smile on your face.

Chapter 2

[nicistrying]

Monday 13th May

Yesterday was an excellent rest day - v hungover, I made it to the pottery workshop we had booked months ago, and made 2 bowls! V proud of myself. We got pastries, had lunch in the garden, then I had a 3 hour nap on the couch bc my period cramps were awful and I didn't want to be conscious to experience them bc I had taken all the painkillers I could 😅

Woke up feeling much better, did a load of housework, made breakfast muffins for the week to use up some spotty bananas we had lying around

Lots of snuggling with my girl in between chores for moral support

And today, still hungover (what the actual fuck no thank you, my first ever 2 day hangover I must be getting closer to 30), went to work, was totally fucking out of it all day but somehow survived without drawing attention to myself I think.

Got home and finally, felt well enough do a little workout to ease back into it

Really enjoyed this. So good to be coming towards the end of the flu (I think) and able to work out again. Matt is bringing so many germs home from uni and it sucks bc we never really used to get ill but in the past year we've both had some nasty colds. Anyway happy Monday, hope everyone had a lovely weekend✌️

[nancypullen]

Good Day

Yesterday was fun...actually FUN! The mister was making some noise about starting a project that's been on the table for a while. You see, this house was born without windowsills. It's tragic. I've never lived in a home without windowsills. Where the heck are you supposed to put little herb pots or cute holiday knickknacks? Where are cats supposed to sit while they watch birds?

I'm sure the original builders saved money, but it's cramping my style. Mickey has assured me that it's easy enough to cut, paint, and install sills. SO that's what he plans to do. Personally, I think we should start in a room no one sees, like his office. He plans to start in the living room and kitchen...

If the end result is windowsills that I can enjoy, I will be forever grateful.

I think you can buy actual windowsills and just slide/glue them in place, but of course our windows are not standard sized - that would be too easy. To make a long story even longer - this post has nothing to do with our windows. Mickey told me that he was going to drive into Dover (about 40 minutes) to shop at the Lowe's there. He encouraged me to go with him and I made every excuse in the world not to go - I had chores to do at home, I needed to do a big grocery shop, I'd just spend money there that I don't need to spend, etc. Then he said the five words that had me in my shoes and out the door in a flash, "Dover has a Home Goods." He suggested dropping me at Home Goods while he did his lumber shopping. Girls, that was the golden ticket. I've been in many, many Home Goods stores. MANY. If I see one, I usually stop. I have left money in Home Goods in various states and cities without a regret. So when I say that the Home Goods in Dover, Delaware is the best I've ever seen, believe me. If there is a heaven, I'm pretty sure I just got a glimpse of what it's like. I could have spent an entire day and a thousand dollars. Because I am frugal I kept it to $35, but I'm very happy with my haul. I tried to be mindful and not get swept away in the massive and beautiful Halloween section but I did end up with one gorgeous crow and a single, glittery pumpkin in my cart. I mean...who could resist?

That wooden cake pedestal was purchased as well. It will be part of a fall centerpiece for the table - isn't it lovely?

I grabbed a pack of napkins from their endless selection and have already used them to transform a dollar store pumpkin.

Now that she's dry I'll add some burlap ribbon and lace.

September is off to a good start. I mentioned a crow. I can't resist a good crow. The one at Home Goods had been looking for me. He's perfect for a project. You see, a few weeks ago I picked up four chunky candlesticks at an auction for just $2. I knew that I'd want to turn them into something else, so this is what I'm starting with..

I'm going to chalk paint them ivory and distress them so a bit of that dark wood shows through. That dollar store stack of pumpkins will be painted in more muted colors, and maybe I'll add a wide burlap ribbon somewhere. How fun is that?? One simple trip to Home Goods has resulted in several craft projects to keep me happy. That's a win. I did buy a few practical things as well, like these adorable reusable straws. Pink with gold crowns!

I use straws every morning when I drink my protein shake. The grandgirl uses straws when she's here as well. I usually buy boxes of pretty floral straws, but these are just as cute and can be popped into the dishwasher. I love having a list of artsy things on my to-do list, and autumn is my favorite time for that, probably because the stuff is just so much fun to make. My last clay ghost is ready for paint and I'll start him today. I'm giddy over that. He's the one who will be a patchwork quilt. I thought I was being so original, and had even dreamed up a book about him. When I did a quick Google search to make sure nothing similar existed, I realized I'm a couple years too late - but doesn't this story sound delightful? Much better than mine.

"His parents are both sheets...his grandmother was a lace curtain..." I love that so much. All the more reason to enjoy painting my little ghost. Anyway, after my $35 Home Goods spree (I regret not buying the Halloween bedsheets) Mickey suggested we grab lunch. If there's one thing I enjoy almost as much as Home Goods, it's going out for lunch. Nothing fancy, we just popped into Qdoba where you can build a semi-healthy, spicy bowl. And, as if the day wasn't splendid enough, when we finally pointed the car toward home we went through a Starbucks drive-thru for a yummy drink. You guys, I felt like I'd been let out of prison after being wrongfully convicted. Home Goods, lunch, and Starbucks - what a fun day! At the moment I have laundry chugging and another load to go in after that one. I should probably dust, and clean windows...but the odds are very good that I will be painting and crafting today instead. It's a holiday, I'm allowed. Alright, time to start painting candlesticks, so this is where I'll sign off. Sending out loads of love, encouragement, and the hope that this new month brings happiness to our doorsteps. While we're waiting, we might as well create a little of our own.

Stay safe, stay well. XOXO, Nancy