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polygamyff · 5 years

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30. Part 6

I feel so out of place, it’s not because his family are making me feel like that but because of this lifestyle I am not used too. I met the Saudi Prince and he called me beautiful, who in the right mind would ever dream of such a thing. I am making sure I don’t leave Maurice’ side at all, I am stuck to him like glue. I won’t even front right now but my arm is hurting, my daughter ain’t heavy but with holding her this long, she is also becoming irritated and I’m stuck here, the baby bag is with my mom, it’s just not realistic “Maurice, hey” I said to him, we are inside in the hotel now and I really have to take her “what’s up?” He turned to me “I need to put Reign down for sleep, she is irritated and she’s not been fed, I need to go. And no I can’t let my mom do it because she needs to have fun too so I need to go to the room and also, I need the baby bag” Maurice doesn’t look happy “I will come with you, show you your suite” shaking my head “no, it’s your day! Please. Don’t do this, just please. This is your day, just Reign and I need to retire to the room” my daughter needs her sleep and I refuse to dump her on anyone, also my mom looks so happy having fun “mhmm, but I want you with me” I smiled at him “and I understand, just Reign needs to sleep. She is not resting or feeding like this” Maurice sighed out rubbing his head “ok, Jay. Yo” he waved at him, looking down at Reign. Look at what she done, she got her dad not happy with it “Maurice is-” Maurice put his hand up at Ally “Jay, find Robyn’ mother. Get the baby bag. Reign needs to sleep” Jay nodded his head walking off, I feel so bad. I feel like I am ruining his moment “sorry, just please wait” Maurice walked by me “follow me” he said to me, I wish Maurice was not upset with me. I can’t just leave my daughter, she is so upset and I know it. I am the one that is keeping her so calm like this, everyone is wanting to speak to him but he is busy making his way to the desk “hi, please. I need the keycard for the R R suite, these are the rightful owners of that room” Maurice pointed at me and Reign “oh this is Robyn and Reign, welcome. They are so beautiful Mr Davenport” the receptionist gushed.

Maurice is such a drama queen at times “you look so stressed and upset, why?” I asked him “because you’re going upstairs, I wanted to bring in the New Year in with you” fixing Reign in my arms “and what makes you think I won’t be back down? I will be back, stop it” Maurice walked over to me slowly “she is so miserable, why?” Maurice lightly stroked Reign’ cheek with the back of his hand, Reign is staring at Maurice with her flushed cheeks. She is stressed out with all of this “she is just not happy Maurice, a lot has happened today. Look at her, she is staring at you, she is probably thinking is this trouble all because of you. I just want her to feed too Maurice. So I rather go, I will be back” Maurice leaned down and kissed Reign’ forehead “my bad Mi Hermoso, you had a long day. I been rude to you, like I totally haven’t slept all night either. Like I should be the diva you know that, look at you. Fatty” Maurice started attacking her with kisses “Mr Davenport, your keycard” Maurice moved back, to see Reign smiling, she isn’t so sad anymore “thank you” Maurice turned around “the bag!” Jay shouted “ok good, would you like me to come with you?” he asked again “no, I am ok” walking over to the elevators, there is like eight of them, this place is too damn big “well Jay will go up with you, this is your butler ok” I got another butler “oh ok, another one..” I drifted off while seeing Naomi just stood right there, stood there staring. She looked at Reign and I felt protective as I turned away a little “call me if you need anything though” Maurice said, didn’t he see her “didn’t you see your wife?” I said as I got in the elevator “why you say that for?” I shouldn’t say that “sorry, ignore that. I will” Maurice put the keycard in, this will take you to your room. Exclusive customers get this, you don’t even need to press any button. I love you” smiling lightly at him “I love you too” pressing a kiss to his lips before he got off the elevator “so we seeing the suites before anyone huh” Jay said.

The elevator doors opened and it’s like I am in an apartment “oh my god” I breathed out, stepping off of the elevator “this is an apartment, a whole asa staircase too, this is crazy” seeing the marble flooring that had both letters decorated into it, the R R red lettering can be noticed as soon as you enter “I feel at home, this just feels at home” making my way through the suite living area, the rows of window panelling. Staring out of the window, we are so high up but you can see how beautiful it looks, it’s so lively outside. The windows slowly started to shade to black, stepping back “what?” I am confused “privacy, the windows go black instead” the butler said “oh my, this is amazing” how fucking crazy is this “would you like me to show you to the rooms?” turning to him “I will be down here Robyn” Jay fell onto the couch “please” I said, the butler walked off ahead of me. Making my way up the stairs “Mr Davenport made a request, baby crib for the princess. This is your room, this is four bedrooms” reaching the top, this is just like home. I love it, I am just ok with being here. The butler opened the double doors “do you need anything else from me?” he said, shaking my head as I made my way to the room, I can honestly just stay here.

I have been here and there, around people and just socialised with them all, but Robyn is on my mind. I did see Terry but I didn’t have the heart in saying to her to go and look after Reign, that is rude to say that. Stuffing my hands in my pockets watching Drake perform, I am not very interested in this at all “nephew” feeling an arm around my shoulder, looking to the side of me and at Kellen’ dad “yes?” I mean what does he want “congratulations are in order, to you and of course, your daughter” moving away from my uncle and turning to him “keep it at that, what do you want?” Kellen’ dad is funny, he trying to be nice but really he ain’t shit “Tiffany is pregnant” I shrugged “Marquis and you are both hiding money within this business and I am not stupid” I sniggered “have fun in Reign’ hotel, that is what my child got. Your grandchild has nothing, you don’t come to me in my event and try to be funny, got it?” catching my dad walking over to us “I need to borrow my son, please” my dad said, walking off as I glared at him “I wanted to speak to you actually” walking with my dad “how?” I asked him “how what?” my dad said, acting like he didn’t do what he did earlier “Robyn, what was that all about. You were too calm old man, too calm to have a girl you dislike in front. How and why?” he said to me no and that you can’t do that and he did, he did it “because in life, you don’t let anyone say no to you. And that includes the person you sit next too, I uhm. I am getting old, and the things I have always done to you, tests and games was to better you. It hurt me to see you out there being ripped apart by the media, you’re my baby, my son and I hated to see you fail but I had to let you fail. Seeing Robyn here, and then hearing what I heard about Hakim and” my dad drifted off “to see you happy, I said no and you listened and I thought to myself what am I doing. I was testing you but also her, and she is still here. It’s about time you had someone that told you no, also your mother drove me crazy” my dad laughed “I won’t deal with the mess but my gift to you is to make your life easier, and that starts off with Robyn. But I never left your side son, I just needed to take those stabilisers off because you’re a man now, a father too. You need to protect your cub like I did you. But don’t ever let anyone say no to you, I am proud” hugging my dad, you know how much this means to me, a seal of approval from my dad “I love you dad, I really do” he means so much to me “we will take down Hakim and co, and everyone else” squeezing my dad close smiling “I want to put everything in your name” moving back staring at my dad “it’s time, but we will discuss ok?” I am shocked at my dad, he has never expressed this to me that he wanted to do this now.

I can’t help but lowkey feel like I should go to Robyn, being here is not my thing as I really want to go but it is my event “Maurice Davenport, is that you handsome” looking behind me, I had to laugh because I never remember how she even gets in my events “Tina” licking my lips laughing “you look so sexy, come here” I sighed out as I hugged her, she kissed my cheek “hey, I am taken now. You can’t be doing that now” moving back from the hug “oh come on, it is just a hug. She got to share, I have seen your lady friend” she pointed at me “she is my fiancé and I got a daughter too, no more Tina. No more flirting” Robyn will not like this woman at all “you didn’t even let me try the goods before you cheated on me huh? Maurice, one night come on” I yelped out “really? My butt? Seriously, you can’t be doing that now” moving away from Tina “Naomi was never the one, I told you that” she did use to say that to me “come on, let us take a picture together” I don’t fuck with old women, she just wants my dick so bad. Tina moved in closer to me, she placed her hand on my chest as the photographer took the picture, looking away from the camera seeing Robyn, no matter how full the room is, I can always notice her. She walked into the room at my birthday party and nobody knew of her and now look at her, she doesn’t even know it yet but she has been welcomed into the family, she now holds importance in my family life. Her skin is glowing, watching her hands wave at someone, the smile on her face. I took in a deep breath as I moved away from Tina, she is here and I am happy again “I told you I would come” Robyn said giggling “you did” wrapping my arms around Robyn and pressed a kiss to her lips “oh and I saw you and that old lady, negro!” she spat “oh it’s long history but you ain’t got shit to worry about” I won’t be cheating at all.

Dragging Robyn into the photo booth “shouldn’t you be out there” pulling her into me as I kissed her lips “I can be anywhere I want to be, and right now I want to be with you” quickly pressing a kiss to her lips before the camera flash went off, moving my head back laughing as I looked at the camera before it went off again. Poking my lips out as it went off again “aight, that is it now” I said before hearing a yelp “we here!” Leon spat as he came in with my sister “we done, it’s fine” let me leave before Leon ends up going off “no, it’s starting again” Leon said as he jumped on my back “what th-” I said as the camera went off “wait for me” Shawn jumped in out of nowhere “negro” the camera went off, looking to the side of me seeing Nalah twerking on Robyn, my mouth fell open “woah, cut!” I spat as the camera went off “y’all wild, can I have my girl back now. Thank you” pushing my sister away, pulling Robyn into me “We going” I laughed trying to leave but we literally fell out of the photo booth laughing “oh, don’t forget the pictures” Robyn went over to get them “I am happy for you, I ain’t ever seen you so happy. I had to join in” Shawn said “I am happy” Shawn looked behind me “your ex” turning around to see her “can I speak to you” she really doing this “whatever you got to say you can say it here. I am divorcing you, I am done with you, my brother? This won’t keep you in the family, you know that right” Robyn just flew by me, I blinked and she shot to Naomi “woah! No!” I was quick with my reflexes, hooking my arm around her torso and yanked her back “not worth it, it’s not worth it. Not with what you worth, it’s over” I am not letting Robyn put her worth down “I kind of like this new sister in law, she can fight” Nalah said “we got a understanding and you know this” shaking my head “speak to my lawyer” I don’t want no fighting, it will just leak out that this happened and my dad will be angry.

I have a weird feeling that Nalah requested this on my dime, I asked for Drake and whatever but Ariana Grande, I know it was her but Robyn is loving it, I would like to know who approved it “your dad was saying that there was trouble with her dad, I was just speaking to him” Shawn said “oh yeah, because Thomas was tripping. He is in my hotel room right now, I want to beat his ass but I am trying to let this event go by and then I can deal with him. Hey” turning to him “you see how Kellen and Tiffany are watching Robyn, you see how they been recording her. Please tell me it ain’t just me” it’s really fucking pissing me off “leave it, she’s having fun. And literally the New Year is coming in” I would beat his ass but I can’t “I feel my dad has got something up his sleeve with things, I think he has anyways” Robyn waved me over “mhmm I guess I have been summoned, be back” let me take my drink with me “yes?” Robyn grabbed my suit jacket “Beyonce is right there, like oh my god” here she go again “stop it, leave them be” her stalking ass “one minute left until the New Year!” someone shouted “Oh my god, it’s the New Year, what is your resolution?” Robyn asked “erm, to make you a Davenport officially so then you are Bonita Davenport but honestly, it is to always make you happy” Robyn cooed out “mine is to become a better mom for Reign and for Reign’ sake know more about your family and the business. To not be so angry” hearing the countdown in the background “Happy New Year” I said as they all shouted it out together, pressing a kiss to her lips before she could even say it back to me.

#Chrianna #ChriannaFF #Fanfic #Fanfiction

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kelyon · 6 years

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Golden Cuffs Chapter 3: The Battle

Posting early today because I actually finished the chapter on time!

The war gets worse and Belle gets desperate.

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The war was getting worse.

Gaston’s reinforcements had given Belle’s people hope. The villagers had thought that with the new supply of fighting men the ogres would be beaten back. And for all that Belle disliked her fiance, she had to admit that his men were well-trained and fearless. With banners held high, they had marched off to defend the farms and villages. They had been hailed as heroes, these veterans of other wars, they were the saviors. With them, and with Gaston to lead the way, everyone knew that the war would be over soon.

But the soldiers were veterans of the wars of men. The ogres slaughtered them and continued their assault on Belle’s people.

Across the land, every temple was repurposed as a field hospital, with the temple in the Belle’s town square the largest of all. Clerics stood by to pray over the dying and the dead. Village women were hastily trained as nurses. Day and night they changed bandages and offered water to the wounded. They stayed beside the frightened young men as they took their last trembling breaths.

Refugees poured into the town surrounding Belle’s castle. People ran from their burned homes to the safety behind stone walls. They stayed with family, with friends, with strangers. And those who had nowhere else to go made haste to the castle, joining the swell of soldiers and servants that already crowded the halls.

Those fleeing from danger came with nothing but the clothes on their backs and the terror in their eyes. Shaking with fear, the refugees would tell the tales of what they’d run from. They said that the ogres doubled in size every time they feasted on human flesh. They said that fire couldn’t hurt them, but only made them hungrier. They said that the adult ogres herded people out onto the fields and made them run until they were so exhausted that the young ogres could make the kill, learning to hunt humans like a cat hunting mice.

Rumors spread like weeds, but the reports that most worried Belle were the farmers who said they had to leave their crops in the field as they ran for their lives. Belle was the head of her father’s household now. Feeding people was her responsibility. She met with the steward every day to arrange for the feeding and sheltering of everyone in the castle.

But the population of the castle was increasingly made up of farmers. Harvest was coming but there was no one to bring in the wheat and fruits. Fields were burned and the roads were not safe to travel. Gaston’s army also had an unfortunate habit of “commandeering” anything edible that it came across. The weekly market day was a dismal affair, though Belle gladly paid silver to anyone who brought anything to sell. But the farmers who paid their taxes in oats and apples had nothing to offer the castle but their helplessness.

Belle knew it was their duty to take in everyone who sought shelter at the castle door. It was the sacred pact between lords and common folk: that her people would be cared for when care was needed. But now when care was needed most, Belle had so little to give them.

Night after night she poured over her mother’s ledger books. Day after day she examined their storerooms, wracking her brain for some cost she could cut, some surplus she could draw from to keep her people fed. But she found nothing. There was nothing she could do to help them if the war kept up.

In the darkest parts of her mind, Belle found herself wondering if it would be better if the war was never won. Wouldn’t it be easier if they were overrun by the ogres? Wouldn’t being burned up or eaten alive be a quicker death than starvation?

But she never voiced those thoughts aloud. She couldn’t tell her friends and cousins how dire their situation could become. And she could never dishonor the men who fought by saying that their fight was in vain, that they had died for nothing. Every breath she took was a victory, Belle told herself. Every sunrise that saw the castle still standing was a triumph. No matter what the future held, she had to keep hope that there would be a future.

She couldn’t give up.

Belle longed for the simpler times, her childhood--or even her girlhood of a year ago. Back when there was peace in the land and she could sleep at night without dreading what would happen in the morning. Would she ever know such quiet bliss again?

When she was a girl, her father’s study had been one of Belle’s favorite rooms in the castle. This was were the books were kept--the histories and the town records and the Encyclopaedia of Magickal Creatures and a few others. The room had been silent and empty for much of every day and Belle had spent hours alone with her books. More than once she had sat so quietly in a corner that Sir Maurice had conducted full meetings without anyone noticing that she was there.

Today, the men in the study noticed her when she arrived for a meeting with her father. No longer was the chamber a place for quiet contemplation. Now it was a war room. Tables lined the walls and young men in uniforms planned and pushed stone figures back and forth over hastily-drawn maps. Pages went rushed in and out delivering messages to and from the front lines. Soldiers walked around or stood guard, some still wearing armor splashed with mud and blood. Belle heard voices raised in an argument--voices that hushed when she approached.

The highest-ranking men in the war stood around a large table in the center of the room. The map on the table was familiar to Belle--it covered the whole of her father’s lands, from the forests to the farmland to the town. She had learned geography on that map when she was little. Now it was covered with carved figures that represented towns and houses and orges. They were using it to mark the places where there had been attacks, places where there had been battles, places where the ogres had won.

Sir Maurice sat in his chair of office at the head of the table. Gaston and two of her uncles were both breathing heavily, as though all three of them had just stopped shouting at once. Her cousin Andre stood at the corner nearest the door, his brow furrowed in distress. Gaston’s favorite lieutenant--the foolish-looking little man who had toasted them at the betrothal feast--was sneering.

Belle clutched her ledger books over her chest, as though shielding herself that way would make her less female and therefore more acceptable in a war room.

“Belle!” her father stood up when he saw her. “Come in. Give us your report, dearest.”

“The report,” Belle approached the table and stood by Andre, setting her books on top of the map. “The report is… dire. The counted intake of crops is less than a third of what they were last year. The few farms that are still intact don’t have enough hands to bring in the harvest because the men are fighting, or--aren’t able to help.” Belle offered the polite way to say that a good number of her people were dead.

“We can send some soldiers home until the harvest comes in,” Andre offered. “Call it a plow furlough and tell them to come back to us with a full wagon when they can.”

Gaston snorted. “Send men home? So the ogres can pick off my army one by one instead of facing them in a real fight? What nonsense!”

“We have to do something.” It was Belle’s Uncle Armand, saying what Belle had been thinking.

“Yes,” Gaston said, “the something we have to do is fight! We can worry about food later.”

“Later?” That was Uncle Pierre, Andre’s father. “People are hungry now, boy. It’s only thanks to Belle’s good management that we haven’t had famine and riots.”

“Please,” Gaston rolled his eyes. “Your peasants know that the only thing keeping them alive is my army. They just have to tighten their belts and learn to make sacrifices.”

“If we don’t get a supply of food in soon,” Belle announced, “then we won’t be able to keep the soldiers on full rations.”

Gaston blanched. “Are you mad? You can’t starve the army!”

“That’s what she was telling you,” Uncle Armand was clearly trying very hard not to shout. “Everyone needs there to be food in the granaries. Even the army. So if we don’t take action, everyone will suffer. But I imagine Belle has some suggestions?”

Belle nodded, hiding her quiet gratification at seeing her family come to her defense. “My first idea is to beseech our allies in Gaston’s kingdom. Would your father be any help to us?”

“My father has his own people to feed, woman. And he’s paying for the wedding as well, though that ought to be the bride’s family’s responsibility. I’m not going to ask him for anything else.”

“You’d rather starve than give up your pride?” Uncle Pierre asked snidely.

“Hey!” Gaston’s lieutenant snapped. “This isn’t our war! We’re only fighting and dying for you people because Gaston tells us to! Have some respect, old man!”

“Don’t talk about my father that way!” Andre shouted. “You stupid little--”

“Stop, both of you,” Sir Maurice said with a weariness Belle had never known from him. How many times had he played peacemaker in a war room? How many petty fights had he ended between factions among people who were supposed to be on the same side? “You two make me glad I didn’t have sons. Belle, darling, what was your next suggestion?”

Belle gathered herself. “If the Duke will not be forthcoming, then we are compelled to ask the king for help.”

Her father nodded. “I agree. In fact, I’ve been in correspondence with King Midas and just received an answer this morning.”

Gaston looked up. “You didn’t tell me that.”

Sir Maurice continued. “The King regrets that he is unable to send cartloads of food or regiments of men over the mountains to get to us before the winter snows set in. He writes that it is not a question of resources, but of time and weather. Personally, I imagine he has heard reports of how useless mere numbers are when fighting against a enemy like ogres. We’re learning how men can do nothing but die.”

Gaston bristled. “So you have nothing?”

“No,” Sir Maurice answered. “The king sent out a group of riders who were able to travel more swiftly than a caravan. They arrived last night in secret and left before dawn this morning.”

“What did they give us?” Andre asked what Belle was wondering.

“Gold,” Sir Maurice said. “A chest of gold, with instructions to buy food from our neighboring lords as they bring in their harvest.”

“Food?” Gaston’s face looked as though it couldn’t decide between shock or disgust. “For the peasants? With a chest of gold we could buy a catapult that would rain fire down on the ogre’s heads!”

“But without food, your soldiers won’t have the strength to turn the crank,” Uncle Armand said calmly. “It all comes back to the most basic essentials: food and shelter.”

Just then, a page burst through the doors and ran to Belle’s father. He was a little boy, Belle noticed as he handed Sir Maurice a message. She recognized him. The boy used to catch rats in the kitchens and present them to the cook in exchange for tarts. But now this child was going back and forth to a war zone.

As her father read the message, Belle saw the color drain from his face. He set the parchment face down on the table and looked up at the war council in stunned silence.

“What is it, Papa?”

After a moment, Sir Maurice’s eyes found her and he spoke. “They… are in the town.”

The men around the table shifted their feet and looked at each other, clearly not believing what they had heard.

“Say that again, Maurice,” Uncle Armand said softly.

“The ogres,” his voice trembled as he spoke. “They have broken through the outer wall. And they are coming in to the town.”

“Gods,” Andre whispered.

Gaston was the first one to pull himself together. “Rouse the troops!” his voice boomed to his soldiers. “We are under attack at this very moment! Every man is to go to the wall and push them back! The walking wounded can stay to defend the castle, but tell every Frontland man if he can hold a pike, he’s going to the front lines!”

“Wait!” Belle reached out to grab Gaston’s arm as he strode away. “There are still people in the town, hundreds of civilians! How are they to get to safety?”

“That’s their affair,” he shook her off and went to join his men.

Belle stood still for a moment, trying not to shake at her rage. That was the man she was going to marry. He was going to rule these people someday! How could he have no consideration for anything but his precious army?

She felt a hand on her shoulder and she turned and looked. Andre.

“I’ll organize the evacuation, Belle. You’re right, people need to get out of there.”

Her anger melted and Belle threw her arms around her cousin. “Send the helpless to the castle, but if anyone wants to stay, let them form a bucket brigade. The fires are as big a threat as the ogres.”

Andre gave Belle a salute and a smile. “I’ll take care of it,” he said, and ran off to his men.

The town was under attack, Belle thought as she walked dazedly back to her chambers. If the town fell, the castle would be the last safe place. If the castle fell, they would all perish. Perhaps Gaston was right. There was no need for food if they weren’t going to survive the winter. What if they didn’t even survive the night?

She was only vaguely aware of coming back to her chambers, of telling her women that they would have to expect even more refugees, of asking the servants to clear a space in the Great Hall so that there would be room for all these new people. She had the cook prepare a vat of soup and a cauldron of warmed wine--comforting foods that would feed a crowd easily. Even if the townsfolk weren’t hungry, having food would give them something to do during what would surely be a long and terrible night.

The people came in a hushed throng. Women and children, the injured and the elderly, they came through the castle gates under a night sky that was red with fire. They carried bundles of their belongings, the heirlooms and essentials they couldn’t bear to leave behind. All of them, Belle noticed, had the same expression, the same shock and befuddlement that she had felt so many times since this war had started. This isn’t happening, their faces said. Not really, not to me. Not here, not in this safe place. It’s not real.

But it was real. Belle had learned that lesson over and over again. It was real and they could do nothing to stop it.

She welcomed them with a brave smile and a kind word, and they looked to her and nodded and for a moment their faces were not haunted. She asked for volunteers to stand on the castle walls with water and be on the lookout for fires. Boys and young women rose to the challenge and Belle could see the relief on their faces, the courage that came from a sense of purpose. That, too, was a feeling Belle knew. It lifted her spirits to help these brave souls by giving them an occupation. Sometimes orders could be a gift.

The mothers and grandparents carried their children into the Great Hall and settled themselves along the walls, sitting on benches or lying on the ground. Some of the children were too young to understand the danger--they played and ran and the sound of their laughter was alien and wrong.

Little Claude joined in the peasant children’s play. Mathilde and Jeanne took it upon themselves to watch over the little ones, sitting some in a circle to listen to stories, letting others run off their energy with racing games. They would make wonderful mothers, Belle thought, if they ever got the chance.

There was a fire in the hearth, to keep everyone warm enough in the cool autumn night. If she tried, Belle could make herself believe that was the only fire she smelled. The woodsmoke was coming from the hearth, the smell of roasting meat was coming from the kitchens.

But she could not make herself believe that the howls and roars and screams were anything but the sounds of men dying and ogres celebrating. She had the servants close the doors but she could not block out the noise.

To keep herself from hearing, Belle spoke. “Is there anything anyone needs?” she asked the people. “Is there enough food for the children?”

Mothers nodded and there was a general consensus of satisfaction under the circumstances. Belle couldn’t believe that. Surely they needed something and they weren’t telling her.

She saw a familiar face in the crowd. “Madame Nanette!” she called. The wise woman would know what the others needed. “Is there anything you need?”

The old witch shook her head. She was the only person in the hall who did not seem afraid. Her eyes were clear and sharp. “We’re well cared for, Lady Belle, all of us.”

There were murmurs of agreement which Belle could not believe. How did they not want more from her? She had been doing her best, but she knew how little that truly was. How could they be calm and content when the monsters were literally outside their door?

Belle voiced her confusion out loud. “But there must be something?”

Again, Madame Nanette shook her head. “You’ve done what you could and you’ve done it well, milady. Whatever happens next is nothing to do with you.”

Copying Madame Nanette, Belle shook her head. That wasn’t true. She was responsible for them. She had a duty. “I need something.” A child’s voice cut through the silence. It was a young girl, with dark brown hair and wide brown eyes. She pushed her way through the crowd, with her mother chasing after her.

“Alix!” the harried woman scolded. “Don’t trouble Lady Belle with your nonsense!”

“Oh, no,” Belle said. “Please, let her come.” She bent down to look the girl in the eye. “What do you need, dear?”

Alix’s eyes shifted around while she looked at the crowd. The girl was not a child, but nor did she have any marks of womanhood on her body yet. Under her worn and patched dress, her body was straight and skinny. Her hair was lank and fell into her eyes. She pushed it back as she spoke.

“I need to know, Lady Belle. I need to know what I’m supposed to do.”

“Do?” Belle asked. “But you’re a child, dear. No one needs you to do anything.”

Alix clenched her jaw. “The older girls get to help,” she said. “The men get to fight and the boys get to carry buckets. But don’t get to do anything.” Her plea had become a whine, childish in her desperation. “I want to help!”

Belle closed her mouth before she opened it again. She saw herself reflected in this child. Her world had been just as shaken as Alix’s and she knew--so clearly--the desire to set it back to rights. The only difference was that the girl had no idea how impossible a wish that was to grant.

“You’re already doing the right thing, Alix,” Belle assured her. “You’re keeping yourself safe. You’re staying close to your mother--that’s very important! You’re looking for ways that you can help. The only thing left for any of us to do right now is to offer up our prayers that the gods will keep us safe and send the ogres back where they came from.”

“I’ve been praying!” Alix looked about to cry. “We all have! Mama prays with me every night! All summer we prayed that the gods will make the ogres go away, but the ogres are still here!”

Belle was at a loss for that. Offering to pray had always been the end of any discussion of misfortune. Pray for a solution, pray for comfort, pray for peace and understanding the will of the gods when the suffering didn’t stop. But the suffering had never stopped, and there was no way to ask this child to understand that the gods seemed to want her to live in fear and die in agony.

Ermentrude stepped into the conversation. “You must pray anyway, child. No matter how dire the circumstances, we all must continue to beseech the gods. We must ask them to have mercy on us.”

“But the gods don’t answer!” Alix shrieked, blasphemous in her rage.

“The gods always answer,” Ermentrude said with a conviction that could have crushed stone. “Even if they do not give us what they want, they always listen. They always answer. Even if the answer is no.”

Alix’s mother took her away before the girl could argue further. The crowd dispersed and Belle was left standing by herself. She found a spot on a bench by the wall and sat down for the first time all day.

It was hard for her to take a full breath. When she tried, the air came out shuddering and shallow. Belle rubbed her face and felt her closed eyelids throbbing against her fingers. She was so tired. It had been dark that morning when she had woken up, and it was dark again now. Her body was hurting--her feet, her legs, her stomach, her head. Everything ached. All Belle wanted was to rest.

“Do you still want some work, Lady Belle?” Madame Nannette walked up to her, bouncing a baby on her hip.

Belle blinked several times to shift her focus away from her own exhaustion. “Yes, of course. What do you need?”

“Hold this,” the old woman held the baby out for Belle to take.

Belle accepted the infant without thinking. It was a fat little thing, under a year old, very contentedly making bubbles from its drool. Automatically, Belle began to bounce it on her knees.

“Where’s the mother?” Belle asked Madame Nanette, who had taken a seat beside her.

“Outside, weeping herself sick. Her man is fightin’, y’see, and she’s afraid he won’t come back.”

Belle held the baby a little closer. “She’s not wrong,” she said softly. “It’s bad out there.”

“But we’re in here.”

“That doesn’t mean we’re safe.”

“No, but it means we can’t change what’s happening out there. We can only care for what’s here in front of us.”

The baby was what was in front of Belle, but it couldn’t be her only focus. She had to have a larger perspective than that. She had to help everyone. “That can’t be true, Madame,” she said. “I have to be able to do something. I have to try.”

“Are you going to fight an ogre, milady?”

“No, of course not.” Belle sighed. “I suppose all I can do now is pray.”

Madame Nanette let a moment pass before she asked, “What did you think of that little girl? Do you think gods don’t listen?”

“They might well listen,” Belle answered. “But they clearly haven’t seen fit to act. And the king won’t help us, and the Duke won’t help us. And there’s no one left to ask.”

Again Madame Nanette was silent. Belle looked over at her and saw the old witch giving her a knowing look.

“What is it?” Belle asked. “Do you know something?”

“It’s more that I’m surprised you don’t know something, milady. Don’t they tell children proper stories anymore? Stories about the true powers of the world?”

Belle rocked along with the baby in her arms. “Is there something in the world more powerful than a god?”

“Certainly he’s more powerful than any god who hasn’t helped.”

“He?” Belle asked. “A person?”

“More or less,” Madame Nanette nodded. “Much more and much less. He is powerful, milady, and he will give us what we need. But he must be called, and he must be paid.”

“Paid,” Belle repeated the word as she tried to think of who or what the old woman was talking about. “Can’t you say his name?”

She snorted. “Never! You say his name and he’ll start watching you. Say it twice and you’re inviting him to come into your life. Three times and you’re commanding him, and he don’t take kindly to being commanded.” She shook her head. “But he comes when he’s called and he follows his rules, so long as he gets his price.”

Belle raised her head as she realized. “Are you talking about the Dark One?”

Madame Nanette nodded. “He won’t come for the likes of me, I’ve nothing to give him. But you, milady, you so young and full of promise. There is much he can take from you.”

One summer at the lodge, Mathilde had dared Belle to speak the Dark One’s full name out loud. It had been late at night and all the girls were silly and excitible. Encouraged by her friends, Belle had lit a candle in a dark room and spoke the name at the stroke of midnight while looking into a mirror. If the magic worked, she was supposed to see his demonic face looking back at her--but all she had seen was darkness.

“But the Dark One is just a story,” Belle sighed. “Nothing happens when you call him.”

“Doesn’t it?” Madame Nanette asked with her eyebrows raised.

Belle sat up. “Do you think he’s real? Have you dealt with him before? What does he take in exchange for his magic?”

“Oh, he’s real, but I’ve never called him. Never needed anything that much. I’ve heard he takes what’s most precious to us, usually children.” Madame Nanette wriggled a crooked finger at the baby in Belle’s arms, tickling the child until it laughed.

There was nothing about the Dark One in the Encyclopaedia of Magickal Creatures. Anything that was known about him was spread by word of mouth, just as Belle had heard now. Stories spread by the fireside late at night, never agreeing on all the same details. No one knew what the Dark One really was. No one knew if he--it was usually he, but sometimes it--was a wizard or a demon or some unholy corruption of a mortal man.

The stories said that he could do anything--make a castle disappear, turn a prince into a frog, even turn straw into gold--but all at a terrible price. He would demand a maiden’s first born child, or take an old man’s memories. And there was no cheating the Dark One. His deals were binding down to the very soul.

If Belle asked him to stop this war, what would he ask of her in return? How much would she be willing to pay?

Before she could give the matter any more thought, Gaston’s fat lieutenant burst into the hall with a team of soldiers. “Clear this space! Get these people out of here!”

Belle stood up and handed the baby back to Madame Nanette. She rushed over to the fat man. “What’s happening outside?”

“Nothing good. We need a place to put the wounded so we’re commandeering the hall. You’ll have to relocate all this rabble.”

“They’ve already been relocated! We told them they’d be safe here! What happened to the field hospital they set up in the temple?”

“It’s a morgue now,” the man said bitterly. “But we can’t stop the battle to dig graves.”

Belle covered her mouth with her hand. “So the wounded are coming here?”

He nodded. “ Gaston ordered us to retreat to the castle, and bring anyone still breathing. It’ll be dawn soon. The ogres will leave, but they’ll come back.”

“You lost,” Belle whispered. “We lost.”

“We lived to fight another day.”

“So we die tomorrow instead of tonight, that’s wonderful!” Belle caught herself before her fear and anger made her break down completely. “Apologies,” she said to Gaston’s friend. “I will clear away a space for the doctors to tend the wounded.”

It was daylight before Belle had found enough places in the castle for all the villagers who had been displaced. After a night of fear, all anyone wanted to do was sleep. She took a group of women into her own chambers, had them lie on her couches and camp out on the floor with the pillows from her bed. She gave Madame Nanette a couch of her own. Alix and her mother curled up together near the fireplace. Instead of sleeping with just Mathilde, Belle invited Jeanne and Little Claude to stay in her bed while the village women piled together on the trundle.

Cramped and frightened, Belle’s body forced her to sleep, even as she dreaded what would happen when she woke.

#golden cuffs #rumbelle #rumbelle fanfic #ouat #belle french #belle

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master-riku · 7 years

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[Bungou Stray Dogs] 55 Minutes Part 4

Disclaimer: [ In no way are my translations perfect. Far from perfect. I’m using this to help me study. Please keep in mind that future translations of this project may change previous translations in order to fit better with the story. The project’s progress depends on the translator’s time! Thank you! ]

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On the same day, 16 minutes ago.

On Standard Island, a large-scale city floating on the sea, tourists arrived on a pier.

A man wearing a black mantle over his entire body shows dislike for the sun.

Concealing his face, he wears a black cloth over his mouth. Only his eyes are exposed which are strangely sharp.

There is another person wearing glasses; a young woman with honey-colored hair that reaches her shoulders.

She seemed to be a young and very talented woman who wore a black business suit and sunglasses.

"We entered the island safely," She said.

"Of course, there isn't a place that Yokohama's sea breeze can reach that we cannot enter. We're the Port Mafia." The man cloaked in black replied. Upon entering the island, they were given the labels of "general tourists." However, the procedure was cleverly counterfeited.

Changing their careers, manipulating their photographs, and passing confirmation by dangling money or showing violence; everything is possible with the Port Mafia's strength.

The sharp-eyed male has a name: Akutagawa.

He is an ability user who is bound to the Port Mafia.

The woman with honey-colored hair goes by the name Higuchi. She is an administrative assistant to Akutagawa.

"Number of enemies." Akutagawa asked while narrowing his eyes.

"It is estimated to be four people," Higuchi responded competently. "They are traitors to the Port Mafia who tried to invade the Port Mafia's banks last night. The traitors attempted to steal money from the safety deposit box, but they were found out and escaped. One of our members was an accountant who was assigned to manage the bank; they were killed during the escape."

"Insurgents?" Akutagawa laughed a bit.

Reddish blood slowly spilled from his mouth. "Those who rise against us, whether it is from disobedience or circumstance, will not have to wait for long to become a corpse. This is who we are. This is the meaning of our existence."

"I agree," Higuchi nodded. "I don't think that the bank robbers knew they infiltrated the Port Mafia's banks, but as soon as they gained information on the murdered accountant, they ran away to the island without taking the money they robbed. They must have thought they could escape the Port Mafia's revenge by coming to this island because it is an extraterritorial jurisdiction."

"Ignorant fools," Akutagawa's smile was colder than a snake's, and the exhale he made more sinister than an evil spirit's. "But, I congratulate their idiocy. They played an important role by giving the Port Mafia a reason to demonstrate the length and intensity of our revenges. I'll scatter their organs and make their screams long and breathless."

"There's no enemy that can stand before Akutagawa-senpai!" Higuchi exclaimed passionately.

Akutagawa nodded while clenching his jaw.

"Let's go forward, Higuchi."

"Yes," Higuchi said while following Akutagawa. "Oh, by the way, Senpai."

"What?"

"There is this world class resort on this island. Is it not important to rid of mental and physical fatigue? After the mission, the two of us should go sightseeing, visit the beach, and more!"

"No."

Akutagawa started walking away.

"Senpai, in the evening, there seems to be masquerade balls that are held at the central square. Would you like to join me? Just the two of us."

"No."

Akutagawa did not turn around and continued walking.

"Senpai, before we begin our mission, we need a base. In fact, we have a room secured under a false name at the high-class hotel, but it's only one room. We could take a break there first."

"Do you not understand 'no'?"

Akutagawa continued to walk down the stone pavement without slowing down.

Higuchi stared up at the blue sky with a defeated look.

"...I know..right..."

After parting with Dazai, Atsushi headed towards an area called the "engine depot."The island was roughly divided into residential areas, experimental districts, tourist areas, and engine depots. The residential area was where the managing staff lived on the island. The experimental district was where power-generated facilities and various experimental examinations took place. The tourist area has music auditoriums, accommodations, beaches, and shopping districts. And the engine depot is a part of the island where the necessary facilities to sail the "ship" are lined up. It is said that the "Jewel Truffle" that Atsushi and the others were meant to protect is kept in a safe room located deep in the engine room.

Atsushi walked passed modern Berlin buildings to head towards the Security Gaurd section. The clock tower that can be seen beyond the townscape had a different design engraved on it from the British side. Even from a distance, the time could be read; it was 11:27.

Atsushi gazed at the surrounding cityscape from the clock tower.

"Hmm....the buildings in this neighborhood have a different atmosphere then from a while ago..." Atsushi murmured while staring. "The buildings' walls and frames are square-shaped, they look like building blocks. A-ah, that shop's sausages...they look delicious....hm?"

Atsushi stopped walking. On the other side of the large sidewalk, in a recessed part of a building, there was a group of three tourists who were sitting down and talking.

They were a strange group of three. They were not enjoying any sightseeing, nor were they looking at a map, the three people were talking to one another face to face near the wall.

Atsushi could not hear well due to the distance, but a few words were carried by the wind: "I forgot," "At an important time like this?" "What should we do?"

Atsushi tilted his head. Did the tourists leave something behind? They did not appear to be officers on this island. One of them was a bald man, the other looked like a tired office worker, and the third was a boy who looked a bit younger than Atsushi. Just by the tone, they seemed as if they were in some distress.

Did they lose a map? If they're lost, he should help them. It was on the way towards the three strangers that Atsushi realized they were in trouble for a slightly different reason than he had expected. As he got closer, he could hear their conversation clearly.

"It wasn't a difficult conversation. Weren't you the one who said that boss? You said, "At most, I only remember how to count up to 12-column digits, and all the names of every woman I slept with up till now."' It was the middle-aged man wearing a business suit that wore a tired expression that gave the troubled voice. His hair was thin and his body looked as if he had insufficient exercise. He was a man who has worked with money as a middle-level manager for twenty years.

His expression invited sorrow.

"That's what was said... That's what I definitely said. Is there something wrong?"

The complaints came from a muscular, bald-headed man with a frown on his face. He was taller than Atsushi by a head, but shorter than the Detective Agency's Kunikida.

"I'm the boss of the bandits. So, you all need to support the boss's every action with full effort! If the boss forgets the 12 digit cancellation code, then make up for it somehow, and show me how it's done!"

Atsushi stopped for a moment. It wasn't because the bald-headed man who forgot how to count to 12 digits had such a defiant attitude, but of course because he heard the word "bandits."

—— I received information from Scotland Yard that three thieves are aiming to steal an item --

He remembers when the captain spoke those words when he was talking about the treasured truffles.

"The boss is amazing! So cool! If something were to happen to me, I'd be safe with the boss!"

It was the third person who spoke in a very vibrant voice. His face was bright, but he was dressed poorly. His eyes shone with trust at the man called boss. He was probably younger than Atsushi by 2 or 3 years.

" Fuhahahaha! That's right, boy! Give me more praise! I'm the leader of the bandits; the reincarnation of Kaitou Thief: Arsene Lupin!"* (Kaitou Thief is a popular term in Japan for Magical thief. A very popular character that has kaitou thief qualities is Tuxedo Mask from Sailor Moon. Arsène Lupin is a fictional gentleman thief and master of disguise created by French writer Maurice Leblanc.)

The boss laughed in a way that made his pectoral muscles burst.

"Of course the boss's greatness is something to behold, yes," The middle-aged salary man lowered his head tiredly. "But, no matter how low I bow my head to the Earth and worship the boss, I can't stop the surveillance cameras unless I have the 12-digit cancellation code."

"The surveillance cameras, you say? Work together and do something about it!"

”There's nothing that we can do!　I'm going to cry!"The middle-aged man gave a sorrowful voice.

"Or, you know, it's okay to use that. You know, that roundish thing you brought. Where you do...something like...this."

"The mouse."

"Yeah, the mouse. And when you push it, it does this sort of.."

"A click."

"Yeah, a click! WELL, IF YOU UNDERSTAND THAT MUCH, HURRY UP AND DO IT!"

"Boss is amazing! Let's do it!" The boy with sparkling eyes said.

"You're already 43 years old, are you sure it's okay to cry out in public?" The middle-aged man lowered his head.

There was no doubt about it. Atsushi hid himself behind a tree located near the sidewalk and pulled out a mobile phone from his bosom.

"Kunikida-san" without waiting for a response from the other, Atsushi whispered in a loud voice, "It's Atsushi. I found the three-person bandit group."

"What?" Kunikida breathed behind the receiver. "Where are you, right now?"

"Uh..." Atsushi looked around. "I'm close to the Engine Depot, it's next to the white art museum."

"As for the bandits?"

"There is a really incompetent boss, a young boy who admires his boss a lot, and a very pathetic middle-aged man."

"....Pathetic...What?" Kunikida sounded confused.

"Uhm, well...They seem to be trying to disable the surveillance cameras or something."

"What do you mean disable the surveillance cameras?"Beyond the phone, there was a sound of Kunikida turning pages in his notebook. "There is an underground passage in the museum, and it is connected with other facilities on the island, and..."

Overlapping Kunikida's voice, the three bandits were speaking.

"Eeyy, you're sluggish!" The boss shouted at his two subordinates. "My power is amazing when reflected on surveillance cameras! For the people who want to see, I'll show them!"

"Uh, uhm, wait a minute - boss?!"

"Let's go, it's time to steal!"

All three people stood up and gradually began to advance to the darker side of the building.

"Kunikida-san, it looks like they're starting to make their move!"

"Don't lose sight of them," Kunikida ordered hastily. "Keep surveying them from afar. "Along with the number of guards we have, we will time ourselves and surround them. I'm on my way!"

Atsushi ran after the three people keeping silent.

Before long, the three people were already behind the art museum. A lawn was spread on one of the areas, and sprinklers watered the other side.

The three people then unexpectedly went off the road and took a turn towards the building's entrance gate, suddenly vanishing from Atsushi's view.

They did not see Atsushi when they turned around the corner, nor did they look back once.

You could say that Atsushi was lucky. Atsushi hurried following the crooked thieves' path.

However, Atsushi's luck ended there.

"-?!"

It was a dead end, and no one was there.

The building's outer walls created a cavity. To the left and right were just white walls. There was also a wall ahead. All the walls were flat. There weren't even windows or gutters to enter in.

Atsushi grabbed his mobile phone with trembling hands and made a call.

"Kunikida-san."

"What?"

"I lost sight of them."

"WHAT?!"

It was strange. He was only a couple of seconds away from the thieves until he lost track of them. The walls were as tall as 4 stories. Even if you boasted any physical abilities, you couldn't do tricks to rush up these walls without leaving a clue behind. However, if in the case of a special power....

"It couldn't be..."

Atsushi placed both hands on the other side of the wall. Lowering his head, he gazed at the wall closely. Footprints were easy to leave on this side where soft grass grew, and Atsushi could clearly see the footprints he himself left.

Oh, he found theirs.

There were footprints that belonged to three people. Two of them belonging to adults, and one belonging to a child. They were the footprints belonging to the thieves, and even though the foot prints were placed in front of the walls, they continued forward without any missteps, and then...

They faded into the wall.

"Kunikida-san," Atsushi spoke on his mobile phone. "The other party seems to have already invaded the museum."

"What? Did you find the people you lost sight of?"

"No, but their footprints have disappeared straight towards the deadend, although the details are unknown..." Atsushi cut off his sentence and breathed, "There might be a person with an ability."

"An ability...?" Kunikida breathed over the phone. "There's a possibility someone possesses an ability?"

"Probably," Atsushi said while thinking. "From the looks of the footprints, it must have been an ability that goes through walls."

"Thieves that can slip through walls...!" Kunikida struck his tongue. "Shit, if that's true, we have to reconsider our entire security plan! We're headed there soon, but it will take us at least 5 minutes to arrive. As it is, you are the closest! Do whatever you can, enter the building and chase after those thieves!"

".......Yes!"

Atsushi gazed at the wall.

The building's entrance was located on the main street. But he didn't have time to go back to the entrance.

The walls were the height of four stories, and he had no clue where he should start grabbing. It's impossible to climb such a place in a mathematical second. One must use a special power.

Atsushi closed his eyes and began to breath.

He envisioned a tiger.

It was a white tiger. It had a huge oral cavity that can swallow humans, and strong limbs like steel melded together.

It's forelimbs were like big tree trunks, and its leaps could jump over a valley. It was a white tiger of violence, completely opposite to his weak self.

As the night cooled the earth, the weakness stored inside him, and a violent ferocity reared itself.

There was no other tiger like this anywhere in this world. It only existed inside him. Arrogant and timid. Proud and Ashamed. The more he tried to conceal his weaknesses, the more the tiger appeared on the other side.

Atsushi's hair was standing. His skin became wavy, and his bones began to grow abnormal. The tendon of his legs started to elongate, and his growth extended into his boots and clothes. A white coat sprouted out like a living thing and covered his legs. A voice like a beast leaked from Atsushi's throat.

The gait undoubtedly belonged to a tiger.

It's position was similar to that of felines' with it's knees bent. The long lower limbs sprung like a coil.

Firmly digging it's nails into the ground, it looked like it was standing on its tiptoes.

Atsushi jumped.

In one leap, Atsushi was halfway up the wall, and in one leap he was facing the building's white walls laterally. The wall's materials broke under his nails while he jumped, and he continued to jump to the opposite walls as he went further up.

While kicking against the walls, the tiger made a zigzag while rushing up them vertically.

If it was an ordinary person watching him, their eyes could not catch up to Atsushi's high speed as he rushed up the wall, and made one last jump before making a semiturn in the air and landed on the building's rooftop.

"......hu...."

Atsushi stopped gasping for air.

He then quickly explored his surroundings after using his tiger's ability to reach the rooftop.

Apart from the wind turbines that were used for the wind power generators lined up, it was a flat and empty rooftop. He needed to find a way down to the lower floor.

And he found exactly what he needed.

There was a colonnade from a huge exhibition that extended from the first floor and continued to the atrium. From the roof's edges, numbers of banners with museum events written on them hung below one another.

Atsushi jumped over the handrails.

In an instant, gravity pulled Atsushi down. He fell through the air. Giving a scream of despair, the tourists from the first floor noticed Atsushi from his commotion.

Atsushi twisted his body in the air and grabbed onto one of the banners. Immediately after, the shape of his wrists changed into a tiger's arm. The tiger's nails created an irritating sound as it tore through the banner vertically.

Ripping through the cloth, Atsushi used his power as a brake, and then landed onto the first floor. Immediately, he rolled forward using his knees and shoulders to disperse the shock.

Raising his head, the faces of many tourists stared at him startled. "Haha....I'm causing trouble." He smiled bitterly to suppress the awkwardness.

From there, he then ran towards where the thieves were headed.

At that time, his mobile phone began to ring. It was Kunikida. "I got in touch with London." Kunikida seemed impatient. "I know the thief’s true ability."

"Really?"

"There was information in Scotland Yard's Special Ability Criminal Department. The name of the bandit is "Nemo." He is a giant with a bald head, and he's stolen from all over the world and is wanted."

Atsushi quickly recalled the thieves' faces. It must have been the unreasonably optimistic man called "boss."

"As you've guessed, he has the ability to go through walls. Furthermore, anything he happens to touch - whether it be equipment or friends - can also pass through the walls. However, he cannot go through walls that are more than 5 centimeters. From there, we should be able to narrow down the invasion route to some extent."

Atsushi replied in agreement and once again turned to look forward.

He clenched his backteeth while running.

As expected the other party had an ability.

The thief "Nemo" had a very deceivingly careless behavior, but he is a formidable person.

Rather than going down the stairs, Atsushi kicked off from one of the walls and reached the 2nd floor in 10 seconds. It was already confirmed that there was a passage leading to other facilities in the basement.

He just needed to find the thieves after that.

However, there was no need to because suddenly, the thieves jumped out before him.

Atsushi was surprised, but the thieves were even more surprised.

Suddenly, before their eyes, an ultrafast youth appeared. Everyone's mouths hung open.

There were fireworks scattering in Atsushi's field of vision.

"Oou!!" The thieves boss's voice was projected clearly. "This island is pretty interesting. Look at that, Gab. That boy came from out of nowhere."

"That was amazing, boss!" The boy called Gab said enthusiastically. "There's bound to be extraordinary things happening whenever boss is around!"

For a moment, Atsushi wasn't able to move.

Of course it was painful crashing into the wall, but it was the matter of making a sudden encounter that left him unable to react immediately.

"Hey, boy. You're pretty interesting. Are you a tourist? How did you do that? Do it again."

"No, no, boss. How ever you look at it, it's really suspicious!" The middle-aged man in a business suit interjected. "It's not a speed that an ordinary person should possess... with that, if the person belonged to the guards then..."

Atsushi stiffened. This was bad.

"Are you an idiot?! There's no such thing as an organization using impoverished children for security! He must have entered in one of the artillery's set up and by mistake he blew himself away in one of the art museum exhibits!"

"I've never known such a person to do that...." The middle-aged man weakly said.

Atsushi stood up while supporting his staggering feet with his hands.

He had to make time for Kunikida and the rest to arrive and give aid. There were no clear chances of winning in a battle, so he had to stall for time by conversing with them to prevent them from leaving.

"Uh-uhm..."

"Huh?"

Somehow, After uttering just one word, the boss reacted.

"I...." Atsushi's head was spinning at a high speed. He had to somehow draw their attention. Anything would be okay.

His head kept spinning, and his mouth kept moving.

"You....You lost something!"Atsushi shouted.

"Hah?"

The boss scratched his neck.

"I'm an ordinary tourist with no special features, and you seemed to have lost something, and you seemed to be looking for it, so I followed you!" Atsushi's head was shaking as he rocked back and forth. He didn't know what was what.

The middle-aged man seemed to smell foul play as he watched Atsushi. "Boss....please, he seems really suspicious."

"Hmm, but the amazing and great phantom thief does not judge an opponent in an unreasonably doubtful manner."

The boss then turned to face towards Atsushi with a sturdy look. "So, what's the item that I lost, boy?"

"What?" Atsushi had not thought of anything beyond his plan, and unintentionally stared in puzzlement.

"Like you said, the thing that was lost..."

"Aa...ehh?" Atsushi was weak when it came to adlib. When trying to come up with contents and act and talk at the same time, it exceeded his mental tolerance. As a result, he becomes defenseless.

"T-that is...you, you should know that the best, don't you?!"

"Ha?"

All three bandits scratched their heads at the same time.

Atsushi wanted to die a little. However, he couldn't stop anymore even if he wanted to. He had to stall for time.

"When you lost it, you....you didn't notice it, but you certainly had it once." Atsushi was embarrassed as he continued to speak, his head was spinning, and he felt like he was going to die. Even if you know that you are on the road to hell, at least you only go through that road you chose once. "What's wrong? The thing that you valued so much, you lost it!"Atsushi spoke faintly. He didn't know what it was. Please, someone stop him. He was about to die in shame. Rather, someone kill him.

However, the boss's carelessness was beyond Atsushi's.

"Ooooh!!!" Atsushi's disorder was suddenly drowned out by the boss's cry. "You're absolutely right, boy! I gave my entire life up to become the greatest phantom thief! And yet, nevertheless, even now..!"

Watching the boss's exaggerated grief, Atsushi became a little calm.

"Boss! Please, calm down, boss!" The middle-aged man panicked and began to shake him. "Boss, even now, you're enough! You are desperately thinking of nothing else, but what else to steal! Stop talking on the spur of the moment already!"

"Oh...what?" The boss's lamentation quickly stopped. "If that's what you say...I guess you could say that."

"Hey, hey, you shortie!" The youngest colleague stepped forward with excitement. "Didn't you just try to trick our great boss? We should tie you up and throw you in the middle of the ocean, you white-haired bastard!"

Atsushi began to sweat. It seemed like everyone was being cautious now, and he didn't really remember how it all became like this.

"I am the great phantom theif's pupil! I am Gab of the swift wind! If you can dodge this dagger, then dodge it!" The boy took out a blue shining steel blade from his bosom. The drawn dagger was made to be concealed in one's pocket.

Alarm bells started ringing in Atsushi's head when he saw the cutlery.

"Wait, wait," Atsushi reflexively stepped away. "Let's talk this over, again!"

"It's useless!" The boy started rushing towards the center with the dagger.

He had no choice, but to fight.

Atsushi's tiger power began to pour into his arms, and instantly his forearm muscles began to bulge explosively. The tiger's hair blew out from under his clothes, and the sound of a tree twisting could be heard as his fingers turned into huge tiger nails.

Knives or bullets could not go through the tiger's hair. If he could prvent the dagger with his arms, he had a chance of winning.

Atsushi's train of thought stopped; however, when a piercing scream cried.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH, WHAT IS THAT? IT'S SCARY. I'M SCARED!"

The boy retreated and fell on his butt.

".....Uh, pardon?"

"What is with that arm! Don't get any closer, stop right there! The hair just grew out of nowhere! Ahhh, I'm scared! I'm traumatized, sorry boss, but can I go home?!"

"Ahhhh, isn't this what I've been telling you, boss?!" Said the middle-aged man with a miserable face. "We shouldn't have brought Gab along! Of course, Gab's an excellent follower....but look at him, he loses his nerves so fast! He's the best pupil only because the other ones quit!"

"Eh."

Was that so?

Atsushi's eyes became tiny dots. Should he just advance?

"Well, I guess it can't be helped. So, you go, Bilgo."

"M-M-M-M-M-M-M-M-ME? That's impossible! I'm only a technician! Technical support is my job! I disable surveillance cameras and extract security codes! Fighting is not in my contract." The middle-aged man called Bilgo lowered his head like a small animal and retreated.

"This is...."

Atsushi raised both his arms and shouted. "This is different from what I imagined!" His soul was crying.

"No matter how you imagined it, it's no longer a problem, since we can complete the request." A low voice resonated in the corridor. "Well done, Atsushi."

"Kunikida-san!" Atsushi shouted.

Behind Kunikida, armed security guards from the island came along.

"The head of the serial group of thieves, Nemo." Kunikida said out loud while reading his notebook. "While having a powerful ability that allows you to go through many walls, because of excessively irresponsible and reckless plans, your robberies fail every time. You exhaust your relationship with your subordinates, where only the people remaining with you are amateurs who have barely any work experience.

While repeatedly failing at your robberies and being captured, your nature of going through prison walls has been a repeated offense. The number of times you have made a jail break has been 89 times. While it's impossible to call you a master thief, we can honor you as the jailbreak king."

"Guuu...uuunu.." The boss's face stiffened. "Oi, you bastards, do something!"

"S-sorry boss, somehow I was careless."

"I'm nothing but an engineer. For that reason, I surrender, so please consider my case."

The young boy was crawling on the floor while the middle-aged man raised both of his hands in defeat towards Kunikida.

Atsushi finally caught up with the situation. Apparently, Atsushi had thought that originally the robbers were 100 times worse than they actually were.

"Atsushi, please contact the client- the captain." Kunikida narrowed his eyes. "We can finally pull the curtains over this fun game of tag with these pleasant thieves." Kunikida took one step as the circle of security guards surrounding them also narrowed gradually. "Boss...boss! I'm sorry...I'll hold them back, so please run away!" The young boy said in a hurried voice. The boss gave no response.

He merely stood there on his thick legs while glaring at his surroundings. "Escape on my own?" There was no hint of impatience in his voice. "The great mysterious Lupin neither had an ability nor a subordinate, and he still performed thefts that, even now, are too difficult for me, and, so he remains in the hearts of people. I knew long ago that I couldn't be like him."

The boss's eyes stared quietly at a point in the air. His eyes grabbed hold of something from far away. "I'm different from Phantom Thief Lupin. Because of that, I have to hold onto something that he doesn't have, keep it in mind, and lay a foundation to ascend into becoming a great Phantom Thief.”

Atsushi noticed something suddenly. The boss was slouching just now. His face was hard, a shadow from a light fell from the ceiling's fluorescent light. "My ability is the ability to slip through objects less than 5 centimeters in thickness - in other words, if they are objects of a certain thickness, it means that they can stay in an overlapping state without interfering with my body."

Atsushi watched.

Something was coming out from the boss's thick chest. There was no sound, and something fell through the boss as if his body did not exist. It was about 5 centimeters thick. The width was as big as a book, it was a square metal plate. Something fell through the boss's body. Atsushi and the others were surprised; their reactions were delayed.

"I definitely will not abandon my subordinates!"

"Bo-!" Kunikida shouted. "Bomb! Get down!"

A flash of light filled the corridor.

Atsushi took off quickly with the tiger's reflex. Kunikida took the security guards and pushed them down; they all lay on the floor together. Fierce smoke and wind blew through the area.

"Geha....ha.." Atsushi coughed in the smoke as he got up. The strong sound of the explosion pierced Atsushi's ears and rung to the center of his brain. Because of the white smoke, he couldn't see what state the corridor was in.

The boss applied his ability of going through walls, and reversed it. He slipped and hid the bomb in his body. No physical examination or observation could find out if he had a bomb inside him with the ability. That is probably how he brought some work tools to the island as well.

Even so, there were no major bruises or pain. Atsushi quickly inspected his own body. He wasn't bleeding from anywhere. If it was detonated nearby, then this small damage shouldn't be possible.

”Damn!　It was a distraction!" Kunikida yelled from the other side of the smoke. "They probably ran to the other side of the wall!"

What Kunikida said was right. He had checked where the thieves were last, and no one was there. There was only the cold floor.

They escaped.

"I'll go after them!" Atsushi shouted back to Kuninkida. He explored the wall by hand due to his vision being blocked by the smoke. The underground walls were thick. If Nemo had escaped with his two subordinates, he should have had his eyes on the wall's thickness beforehand. Fumbling around, Atsushi immediately found something. It was an automatic side door. It's a door painted in the same color as the wall, but it seemed like the thickness was thinner than the other walls that he had touched. There was a high chance of escaping beyond this door. However, it was locked, and it would not open even if you pushed or pulled it.

"Kunikida-san! They might be beyond this door!" Atsushi cried while the smoke was fading. "Please tell me how to open the door!"

"It's probably a security door for certification ceremonies." Kunikida came running furiously. "Use the silver coin on the door's certification board."

Atsushi then remembered the silver coins that were given to them when entering the island. They had an identification transmitter built-in, and they should be able to open places where tourists couldn’t go.

Atsushi took out the silver coin from his bosom and in a hurry brought it close to the door. However, a dull electronic beep resounded, and the door did not appear to open. "Show it to me!" Kunikida approached the door. "...This is strange. I can't even open the door with my silver coin."

"Please, back away." One of the guards came close. "No one is allowed to enter that door."

"......What?" Kunikida turned around and looked back at him. "What do you mean?"

"The destination is a special confidential area, and only people with permission can go in. Please get away from it."

"Get away?" Kunikida's eyes narrowed in anger. "Hey, we were hired to catch the bandits who are running away as we speak. Are there any other secrets or things that need permission? If you're so obedient, open it and catch them!"

"We are not given the authority to enter as well." Somehow, the situation was becoming suspicious.

During the initial explanation of their duties, there was no word about the Detective Agency being unable to enter an area. Even with this situation, it was not the time when thieves were escaping now. "WE'RE MAKING NO PROGRESS. Atsushi, contact the captain! Hurry so we can have this door open and enter inside!"

"The captain also has no authority," The security guard said without expression. "If you need confirmation, you're free to call him."

Atsushi took out his mobile phone. Even though they were underground, there were radio signals. Looking through his phone, he pressed the captain's contact. "Kunikida-san," Atsushi said while listening to the phone. "I can't connect to the captain."

"What?"

No matter how long they waited, the client was not picking up the phone, however...

"Hey, do you hear something?" Kunikida said while looking around. Atsushi started to hear the sound as well. It was a strange electronic sound -- the sound of a chalmera ringing from ramen stalls.

"It's the captain's phone that's ringing..."

"From the other side of the door?" Kunikida said while touching the wall. At that time, the door opened automatically suddenly.

"Hugh!?" Kunikida said in panic.

Beyond the door, there were soldiers.

They weren't just soldiers. They had large automatic rifles with bulletproof equipment. There were more than 10 of them. One could not see their expressions because their faces were covered with bulletproof masks. "Beyond this point, you are prohibited from entering this area. Leave immediately."

"What did you say?"

"Leave, you have only one warning. If you do not obey instructions, then it will be considered appropriate to use firearms.” They hoisted their automatic rifles; their black muzzles shone dully.

More than 10 fully armed soldiers pointed at Kunikida and were ready to shoot at any time. The intimidation the soldiers emitted was the equivalent of plunging headfirst in a Lion's mouth.

However, Kunikida did not change the tone of his voice nor was he frightened. "I also have a warning, and I'll say it once. We are a detective agency who was assigned to capture thieves for a client. Even if this island is an extraterritorial property, there are extraterritorial laws for pointing a gun at a general member of the public, and don't think that I will allow you to threaten one." Kunikida's entire body emanated a murderous aura. The opportunity to capture the thieves was being blocked due to irrational reasons, and it seemed like he was considerably angry.

"Hoho, this person has a backbone." An unexpected voice came from behind the soldiers. "Everyone, rescind your weapons. There's no use trying to threaten this person with a gun." As soon as the hoarse voice ordered the soldiers, the soldiers pointed their guns down. They moved perfectly like a machine.

When the soldiers moved aside and made a clearing, an old man dressed in a military uniform appeared.

He was a small old man. When surrounded by strong soldiers, his stature stood out even more. He had a mild expression and a fluffy gray beard running down his wrinkly face. If he were not wearing military clothes, he looked like he would belong in the country side as some teacher.

"You're the head of this group of soldiers?" Kunikida asked in an angry voice. "We are pursuing thieves, and I would like you to allow us to enter this area."

"Well, if you aren't a young man with a considerable spirit. If you trained with a battalion, you would make a good soldier." The old man laughed with eyes similar to that of a teacher's. "However, I cannot approve of this entry, unfortunately-- but, if it's the case of a gold coin then..."

"You possess silver coins that are given to the general staff. Besides that, on this island, you must be in possession of a gold coin for confidential areas. If a person enters this area without a gold coin and information leaks outside, then he or she can be immediately shot to the death. This is the island's absolute code of conduct. The leaders of your country have signed a consent form."

Atsushi stared at the silver coin in his hand. Certainly, ordinary tourists received copper coins. In other words, there were many places that could be entered depending on which coins: copper, silver, and gold in order.

"However, let it be known, out of respect for your sense of justice, that the thieves have been caught."

"Is that so?" Kunikida said surprised.

"The inside of the confidential area is strictly guarded by surveillance videos, and the amount of soldiers in here is incomparable to the ones outside, so be relieved."

Kunikida glared at the man for a few seconds before slowly speaking. "If that's the case, let us confirm from the client. Would you please give me your name?"

"There is no name to be given. I am called 'Colonel' by everyone here."

"Colonel...You're certainly a military employ."

Atsushi once again looked at the old man's face. Although he had the expression of a school teacher, there were some white wounds that have faded in the old man's face if looked at closely. His shoulder width was solid, and was indicative of having been forged in the past despite his small size.

Suddenly, a wretched smell came through.

Atsushi's five senses become sharp when using his tiger ability. He is able to pick up sounds and smells that no one can usually notice. The tiger's senses must have stayed when he had transformed.

The tiger's nose caught the smell when he had sniffed. He had smelled this scent many times after entering the detective agency, but still he could never get used to it. It was an unpleasant scent, it was....

"It can't be..."

Atsushi darted quickly without thinking. He forcibly shoved himself through the confidential area blocked by the soldiers.

"Hey, what are you doing!?"

Ignoring the soldiers' shouting, Atsushi looked around the area. There was another corridor that continued from the entrance. There was little difference between the place and its interior.

"Get away from the door! Do you want to be shot dead?!" The soldiers' warnings were ignored by Atsushi.

Atsushi's eyes then caught onto a color.

There was a red color within the confidential area. The red stretched tightly in the corridor, and scattered from the wall to the ceiling. It was definitely the source of the unpleasant smell. "That is...!" Atsushi's eyes widened. It was no mistake. There was a brilliant red on a white wall, and a body lying in the center.

There was blood and a corpse.

"Get down!"

Atsushi was brought down by a soldier. Forcibly pushed by a firearm, Atsushi staggered and fell on his back.

Kunikida ran to him.

"Hey Atsushi, are you ok?"

"Kunikida-san...." Atsushi said dumbfounded. He saw it for a moment, but there was no way it was a mistake. "There was a dead body."

"What?" Kunikida widened his eyes. "It couldn't be...was it the thieves?"

When Atsushi instantly smelled the blood, he had also thought that, however...

"No..." Atsushi raised his head. The image was burned into his mind.

"Well....did you see it boy?" The old man called Colonel gave a shrewd face. "As I said earlier, the information in this area is confidential, and there is a code of conduct that we cannot abandon regardless of what the situation is. It's too bad...it won't be easy for you to go outside."

"What? Atsushi, what did you see?"

Blue clothes resembling those of a repairman. A tired face. The sound of a chalmera ringing from a ramen stand. With a faint voice, Atsushi spoke.

"It was the client....the captain is dead."

#55minutes translation #my translation:55 #bungou stray dogs #bsd #55 minutes #very dead #will always be very dead after huge projects like this

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krokodile · 7 years

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movies watched in 2017

wonder woman - it was...fine? i liked it more than i’ve liked any other superhero movie, and the character driven bits (and some of the action sequences) kept my attention, but the longer fight sequences had me dozing off. these types of movies just aren’t my thing. as far as they go, though, this had more things for me to like than most of them do, and damn, gal gadot is charming af.

power rangers - the nostalgia movie boom seems to have skipped directly over my childhood. transformers was a bit before my time; power rangers was a bit after. but this movie looked entertaining enough for me to check it out, and...yeah, it was. obviously i didn’t get any of the references or have any idea of how it worked as an adaptation, but as a kids’ action flick, it had a fair bit of heart and some really good performances. god help me i am really starting to like elizabeth banks, which...if you’d told me this ten years ago, or even two years ago, i would’ve called you a damn dirty liar. is it me, though, or was there not a ton of actual action? not a complaint on my end, but i feel like it might have been for the people there for the nostalgia, or little kids there to watch the power rangers kick ass.

the perfect host - i loved this so much i immediately made my mother sit down and watch it. david hyde pierce is just the fucking greatest thing ever in this. it’s also pretty damn amusing to realize that this character is, really, just what would happen if niles crane just snapped one day. it’s a shitton of fun and i can’t recommend it enough.

war for the planet of the apes - really enjoyed it. as with rise, i regret not seeing it on the big screen; it looks awesome. andy serkis continues to be perfect. woody harrelson is disturbingly hot as amon goeth but with apes. i’m not proud of that last sentence but things are what they are. the kid playing nova (who looks startlingly like a small linda harrison) is an absolute star - no dialogue, acting opposite a bunch of dudes in mocap suits, and you believe every fucking second of her performance just from her face. it didn’t even OCCUR to me until the movie was over that, oh right, there weren’t actually apes there. which also says a lot about just how goddamn well-acted those apes are. i already mentioned andy serkis, but karin konoval deserves every bit as much credit and praise as maurice. it’s not my type of film - rise was the one from this trilogy that was more my cup of tea - but it’s so flawlessly done that i really loved it regardless.

wind river - look, i hate that guy who says “this film is important.” i don’t want to be that guy. but i have to be that guy. this film is important. you need to see it, and with the understanding that this is based on a true story in more than one respect. as the film takes care to point out, native women are the one demographic for whom missing persons records are not kept. this is loosely based one on person’s precise experience, yes, but it’s also the truth of thousands of native women no one ever looked for; women whose families never had the hope of closure, let alone justice. it’s the truth of countless women who are treated as objects by white men, who are raped, who are murdered and who are conveniently forgotten by law enforcement. in 1978, the supreme court declared that white people couldn’t be arrested and prosecuted by native people for crimes committed on native land, and it’s only as of 2015 that non-native men can now be prosecuted through the tribal courts for domestic assault against native women.

it’s also just excellent as a film. i do understand the potential issues with having the main character be a white guy, and “white savior” complaints wouldn’t be out of line. but i also have a feeling that the studio likely didn’t think this film would find an audience at all without a white lead, and they’d probably be correct. jeremy renner, for what it’s worth, does well with the character, and while we didn’t really need the liam-neeson-in-taken-esque turn at the top of the mountain, it’s about what you’d expect from taylor sheridan.

elizabeth olsen...can someone be declared a revelation twice? because every fucking SECOND of her performance is flawless. she won me over in martha marcy may marlene, and she’s grown so much as an artist since then. her character is also well-used near the end of the film to pull focus away from the white leads to refocus on the victim, and...fucking hell, that scene should’ve earned olsen an oscar nomination. it won’t; this film is criminally ignored. whether it’s because of the weinstein connection or just because hollywood has hit its quota of “minorities in america” films for this year and the white powers that be have lost interest, i couldn’t tell you.

the supporting cast, as well, is just spectacular. gil birmingam is the unsung backbone of this film and his performance is glorious, managing to be both passionate and understated. graham greene is impossible likable with amazing delivery. martin sensmeier doesn’t have much screentime, but the minutes he does have are absolutely gutting. teo briones has only a few scenes as jeremy renner’s half-native son, but he makes a real impression (and is the son of jon jon briones, which you have to love; i guess crazy talent runs in the family). and kelsey asbille is given precious few minutes to make us fall in love with a young woman we all know is doomed, and she manages easily, although the fact that she isn’t actually native gives me some pause with regard to her being cast. still, she does a great job with the role.

it looks incredible. taylor sheridan isn’t the person i would have expected to write or direct this one, but damned if he didn’t do some amazing work. this movie deserves to be seen.

personal shopper - if this movie doesn’t stop people from having that weird “kristen stewart can’t act” belief, i suppose nothing will. this is her best performance yet, and yes i did see clouds of sils maria; she’s somehow managed to outdo her work in that film. loved the movie for all its weirdness. never knew what the fuck was going to happen from one moment to the next and i appreciate that.

eyes of laura mars - i can’t tell if this movie was supposed to be taken seriously or not. i have that issue with faye dunaway movies a lot though.

amityville: the awakening - i’ve never liked an amityville movie - i tolerated the aughts remake because chloe moretz was a friend’s client and it had melissa george (not sure if i knew who rachel nichols was at the time but if i did, that would’ve been another bonus) - and i have not started now.

ingrid goes west - not really what i was expected tonally, particularly the ending. didn’t love it, didn’t dislike it. can i finally admit that i just don’t like aubrey plaza that much? o’shea jackson jr. is fucking adorable though.

serpent - i appreciated that there was actual effort put into this, but it was destined to be crap with the premise of “stuck in a tent with a snake for most of the film.” unless it’s ian mckellen and patrick stewart, you’re just NOT going to enjoy watching two people sit in one place and do little of anything for an hour and a half. (and really, you’re going to fight about your relationship NOW?? like, i’m a pretty petty person but damn.)

#movies watched in 2017 #MWi2017: wonder woman #MWi2017: wind river #MWi2017: war for the planet of the apes #MWi2017: power rangers #MWi2017: personal shopper #MWi2017: eyes of laura mars #MWi2017: the perfect host #horror movies: the perfect host #MWi2017: amityville the awakening #horror movies: amityville the awakening #MWi2017: ingrid goes west #horror movies #MWi2017: serpent #horror movies: serpent

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treebananas · 7 years

Text

Tale As Old As Time

Whoo y'all this fic took a lot out of me, but it is definitely one of my favorites that I've ever written.

Disclaimer: I do not own Maggie Steifvaters characters nor do I own any of the beauty and the beast plot. I've used lyrics from the songs, lines from the script, and a description for the beast, but they are not mine, they are the beauty and the beast production teams.

Summary: beauty and the beast au where Adam is belle, Ronan is the beast, blue is Maurice, and tad is gaston. Pynch week day 2: musical au Adam/Belle POV

Word count: 5507

Adam Parrish and Blue Sargent lived together in a small village in the town of Henrietta, Virginia. The two are the closest thing to family that they have. Blue had family, but left to pursue her own life. They worked together perfectly because they had a mutual interest in making things. Blue made clothes while Adam made inventions. The provincial village disliked the two of them and called them funny. Adam guessed they were. The village people and Adam and Blue had different views on living in general. They didn't like how Blue spoke her mind and wasn't as clean cut as the rest of the women. Blue wasn't a slave to her husband and she loved being single. Adam on the other hand needed to be more demanding in the people's eye. He has to be with Blue in a romantic relationship because living together without any relationship was sinful. Adam and Blue liked their situation because it suited them. Adam would never complain about the hateful town. It was heaven compared to his old life. The village people couldn't see that. They were uptight and rigid and their opinions couldn't be swayed, but the rent was cheap.

Adam started another long day by going into the crowded marketplace for the morning chores, but Adam had an early morning and Blue was working on a design for a fashion fair. The marketplace wasn't as bad this morning as it usually was. He could deal with the whispers and gossip that floods the streets as long as he could get his hands on his favorite book, Alice in Wonderland. Something about the book gives him the sense of childhood he had ruined for him.

Adam returned back to the cottage in about two hours with clean clothes, food for two days, and his favorite book.

He called out, “Blue, I'm home!”

He heard a returning, “I'm in the workshop. I need your help.” and ran to the room.

The workshop was the biggest and most important room in the house besides the room that Blue and Adam share for a bedroom. It's as colorful on Blues side as it is gray and monochrome on Adams side. It's full of the most useful invention and stylish clothing; it's also filled with impractical shit and hideous choices of colors. Blue and Adam worked side by side in this space creating the most marvelous goods. They would trade comments, test products, and listen to music through one of Adam's inventions as they worked.

Adam moved over to Blue’s colorful work table to see what she was working on. Blue was using one of Adams most effective inventions. It was a machine that did the sewing for Blue, so all she had to do was put fabric in and she could manipulate it to her desire.

“This ducking machine stopped working.” She barked.

Adam sorted and put the white thread in the right place and turned the wheel slightly. The foot moved briskly up and down placing the stitches in the right place.

She mumbled, “thank you,” and got back to work.

The clothing piece was turning out stunning; the colors were meshing together perfectly and made the piece tell a story.

Adam was brought out of his reverie by a knock on the front door. He jumped back and went to see who would interacts with ‘the crazies.’ At the door was Tad Carruthers, the town's most handsome bachelor, who had his eyes on Adam since Adam came into this village. Adam rolled his eyes secretly, but he let Tad in. Adam stood in the doorway, so Tad couldn't walk into the cottage.

He mustered the biggest, most fake smile and said, “Tad, what do I owe this pleasure?”

“Isn't it though.” Tad boasted. “Such a pleasure.”

Adam held back the scowl making its way onto his face and instead insisted, “It's always nice to have some conversation, but if it's not important, I have to get back to my inventions-”

“What are your thoughts on marriage?” Tad blurted.

Adam knew where this was going, but his eyes still bulged, “Marriage?”

“Yes, a handsome guy like yourself must have had thoughts about it. You are always thinking.”

“I can't say I've thought too much. All I have to say about it is that it will be at the right time and with the right person.”

“You're young, I'm young. What's a more perfect time?”

“Is this your way of asking me to marry you?”

So you are as dense as the village people say you are. Yes, Adam, I'm asking you to marry me.”

“Tad, I..I just don't deserve you.”

“The only other person that deserves me is me. You're a close second.”

“I'm sorry, I just can't.” Adam said, pushing Tad out the door.

When Adam told Blue this, she cried laughing.

“Could you imagine? He asked me to marry him. Me! The husband of that boorish, brainless…”

“Mister Carruthers!” Adam picked up a piece of some fabric laying around and draped it over his head. “Can't you just see it?!”

“Mister Carruthers!” He picked up a piece of scrap metal and pretend-shot it like a bow, “His other half!”

“No, Blue! Not me ! I guarantee it! I want much more than this bigoted life!”

He sighed, “I just want a different life than the village people, including Tad have planned.”

Blue exhaled and nodded, “Once I go to this fair, I'll be picked up by a fashion company and we can finally move to a better place with no snobs or fucking Tads. We can just..be.”

@ @ @

Blue left the next morning with her designs and a cart made of entirely Adams creation. It had everything Blue needed.

“It's just a few days,” Blue said as they hugged. “I'll be back before you know it.”

That was five days ago. Needless to say, Adam was worried. Sometimes Blue would stay a couple extra days if she liked the town or city, but they had an agreement to not stay five or more days. Adam decided to get out of the house and distract his mind from his anxious thoughts.

In the distance, he heard a horse whinnying. His eyes caught Gwenllian, Blue and Adams horse. Blue took Gwen to her fair and had Gwen pull the cart. Gwen wasn't connected to the cart or the harness appeared to be broken. She was waking up the entire village with how loud she was.

“Woah, girl calm down.” Adam tried to comfort, “Is Blue alright?”

At the sound of Blues name, Gwen cried out. Fear crept upon Adam.

Quickly, he said, “Alright, take me to her.”

He mounted Gwen and she took off galloping. She brought him last the village walls and into the deep forests that surround the town. She ran Blue normal path out of the woods until she turned a smaller, unknown path which took them deeper into the woods. Adam swore he could hear wolves howling in the distance. Through the woods, was a clearing. A huge, gray building was peering through the leaves. As they approached the building, Adam saw the turrets and grand steps. Not a regular building. Around the clearing all the trees and shrubbery was brittle and dry. Any architect would gape at the angles and smooth edges; Adam could draw it everyday and still find some new part of the exterior. Adams has dropped as Gwen continued to the castle.

“Wait here.” Adam told Gwen as he walked up to the unnerving castle steps.

He walked through the large door and called out, “Blue!”

He heard whispering around the main floor. Then, he heard coughing coming from a wing of the castle.

“Blue!” He screamed as he grabbed a neat candelabra and raced to the noise.

When he finally saw Blue, he saw the jail cell and threw himself down to meet her face.

She looked at him with a confused look on her face, “Adam?”

“Blue, I'm here. I'll get you out.”

“No, Adam. You have to get out of here and go home; forget about me. Quick, before he sees you!”

“Who sees me?”

A gruff voice called out, “What are you doing here?!”

A growl came from Adam's front left where he suspected the thing was lurking.”

“Let my friend go!” Adam demanded.

“Then who would pay her crimes?” The creature growled, “unless you would want to take her place.”

Silence came as Adam thought. “Come into the light.” He instructed.

Thee thing scoffed, but did as it was told. When the creature was illuminated, Adam saw the most hideous mix of a lion, buffalo, gorilla, boar, wolf, and beat. Adam flinched back, closing his eyes and reopening.

Adam mustered up his courage and clearly said. “Yes.”

Beside him, Blue cried, “Adam, no!”

“It is done.” The beast told, as he threw Adam in the cell and grabbed Blue.

“Don't hurt her!” He exclaimed, but it was no use.

He looked around at the cell walls and bars. This is where he would live forever. In his mind, Adam knew he should be rethinking his decisions, but he couldn't find one regret. Adam just hoped that there was a least a tiny bit of humanity in the talking creature that he would give Adam food. Unfortunately, it was fruitless to hope. These four walls were Adams future.

@ @ @

Adam woke up to sounds of creaky doors. This wasn't a dream. Adam thought to himself. He followed the sounds he heard and saw an open door, but no human to open it.

“Down here!”

Adam looked down to see the candelabra he picked up last night and a clock. He jumped back and screamed. He couldn't believe what he was seeing.

“What the fuck?” He muttered.

“Name’s Henry, this is Noah. We're here to show you to your room.”

“Ronan's not gonna like this.”

“How is this possible?”

“A heartbroken warlock.”

“We can't tell you more.”

“My room?”

“Did you really think we weren't going to give you a room?”

“No?”

“Ronan might not like it, but we’ll just sick Gansey on him.”

Henry and Noah showed him to the east wing of the castle. They told him it was Adam’s bedroom. His bedroom was a beautiful room that could fit five of Blue and Adams workshops. The decor was simple, a desk, wardrobe, and huge bed. It was a room fit for a duke.

“While you're here.” Noah spoke. “Know that some objects are cursed people, the wardrobe including.” And with that they left.

Curious to what Noah was saying, Adam sauntered over to the wardrobe. It was fancy and delicate plastered with the mint green theme of the room. Hesitantly, Adam knocked on its wooden doors. It sprung to life. One half seemed to shine like a sunshine. The other side stayed prim and proper.

A teenage boys voice filtered through one of the doors, “A human? Finally, it's been getting lonely.”

A silky smooth voice like the beasts carried through the other half, “Really? I'm having trouble believing that you're lonely when we share a wardrobe and have for gen years.”

“Shut up, Declan.”

“Matthew where are you're manners?”

“Up my wooden ass.”

“Matthew!”

“It's so nice to see something that has actual skin.”

Adam cleared his throat, “Well, that Beast is holding me prisoner forever, so you'll see me a lot.”

“I swear to g-d when I'm human again. I'll be the first to punch him.”

“Declan! Get in line.”

Adam cleared his throat again, “I have to ask, why are y'all cursed?”

“We can't tell you. Only Ronan can.”

“I'm Declan, the oldest brother and heir to the throne. My other half is Matthew, the youngest child and literal sun. Ronan, as you call the Beast, is the middle child.”

“Trust me, Ronan is just easily angered. He’all calm down.”

As in cue, loud banging shook Adams room. The beasts loud voice followed, “Get the fuck downstairs for dinner.”

Adam called out a response, “I'm not hungry.”

A moment of silence, then a sign, “will you come down for dinner?”

“No”

“I...would...love if you could...come down for dinner...please.”

“No, thank you.”

“Fine, then go hungry for all I care. If he doesn't eat with me, he doesn't eat at all.”

@ @ @

Moments later silent tears still ran down Adams face. Part of him wished to run after the beast and beg for forgiveness and maybe that way, the beast might take mercy and let her go. He knew he couldn't think about life back home with Blue, but his mind wandered. How was Blue? Was she thinking of him? Did she miss him as much as he miss her? He also thought to what Blue would do in his situation. The answer was quite clear. He had to find something good in this tragic place even if his home, his heart was too far away. He would also have to build walls around himself. He could do this for Blue as long as she was home and free.

A knock at his door startled him. In strolled a teapot and teacup on a cart.

The teapot spoke with a politicians voice, “Would you like a cup of tea?”

Adam smiled, “That would be lovely.”

The teapot poured itself into the teacup. Adam lifted the teacup to his face and took a sip. The tea warmed all the way to his heart and chest. On its way down, Adam heard an inhumane noise erupt out of the teacup. He looked closely and saw a face adorned on the teacup.

“That was such a brace thing you did for your friend.” The teapot admitted. “We all think so.”

“I like you! I'm Opal!” The teacup screeched.

The teapot and Adam laughed. “I'm Gansey.”

“And I'm Adam.”

“Say Adam how would you like some dinner?”

“But what about ‘if he doesn't eat with me, she doesn't eat at all.’”

Ganseys look said it all. The three headed downstairs awaiting the dinner.

@. @. @.

Adam walked down the grand stairs with Gansey and Opal by his side. They led him into a ginormous dining room where the chair pulled out and tucked Adam in by itself. On the table was Henry and Noah.

Henry spoke, “Ah Adam! What an honor it is for you to join us this evening. Now watch as the dining room proudly presents your dinner! Please dig in. Be our guest!”

Dinner was a long affair. Music filtered out of the piano in the corner and Henry and Noah did a dance routine that was wonderfully choreographed. Every so often, Noah would remind them to quiet down, so Rona didn't hear. The occupants made an amazing meal with a mysterious gray stuff that melted in Adams mouth. The food made Adam sleepy and full. Adam mentioned to Gansey that he wanted a tour of the castle before bed. Noah called off dinner immediately and went to join the group for the tour. Henry put on his best tour guide voice and showed Adam the library and lower parts of the castle.

When the reached a certain room, Gansey took over and asked, “Say Adam, what do you know about Welsh Kings?”

@. @. @.

At some point during the tour, the objects made intense eye contact, but did not mention the huge staircase leading up to the wing. Adam asked about the bathrooms and when he saw the objects turn, he ran.

The wing was dark gloomy. It was covered in cobwebs, ripped clothing, and claw marks. There were pictures along the walls, but only one Adam could make out what the picture depicted. It was a man and women with three children all in royal outfits and huge smiles. The man and two oldest children had black slicked back hair and features that could cut glass. The women and youngest child had unruly, but flowing blonde curls and soft faces. The whole family shared striking, clear blue eyes that matched the beasts eyes. Over the middle childs face were long, deep, slash marks.

Adam moved to the center of the room where the moonlight hit a pedestal that held a mirror and glass case. In the mirror, Adam saw his face clear as day. He saw something move, but nothing was there. In the glass case was a raven with the feathers falling off. At the bottom were several of the black feathers. He saw that the raven did not have many feathers left.

The Beast appeared suddenly and screamed at Adam, “WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT YOU COULD OF DONE?! YOU COULD OF DAMNED US ALL!! LEAVE, GET OUT!!”

The beast lunged at Adam, then observed the glass case. Adam screamed and ran. He high failed out of the west wing and bolted down the stairs to the door ignoring the screams from Gansey, Henry, and Noah.

He ran out of the haunted castle and rode Gwen into the thick woods. He was surrounded by trees and the pitch blackness of night. He didn't get very far when he stopped and heard the howling of the wolves. Their growls came from every direction and he knew he was screwed. He grabbed a stick as a weapon just as the first wolf attacked. He fought them as best he could, but he was outnumbered. He heard a deeper, more threatening growl and his first thought was shit more of them, but Adam was wrong. It was not more wolves, for it was the Beast coming to Adams rescue. There was the Beast, there was Ronan coming to protect Adam. Adam tried to help, but Ronan's growl at him told him to stay away. He took on several at once, throwing them away as if they were nothing. He finished 15 with ease, but the next wolf got a cheap shot at Ronan. He yelled out before finishing the rest of the wolves. Adam and him stared at each other over the piles of unconscious wolves. Adam was about to say something before Ronan's eyes became half lidded and he collapsed. Adam glanced at Gwen, then back at Ronan. He looked so vulnerable laying there in the cold snow. His wound was bleeding and he would die if Adam left him without help.

He crouched by Ronan's side and whispered, “I need your help. I need you to stand.”

Ronan shakingly obeyed and together they got Ronan on Gwen's back.

Together they would make it back to the castle.

@. @. @.

“Ow!”

“Stop fucking moving!”

“You're hurting me!”

“Well, I'm sorry, tough guy, but suck it up. And stop moving!”

Ronan pouts but hands his arm back to Adam. Adam looks at him, but applies water to his cuts anyways.

Ronan hisses and snatches his arm away, “This never would've happened if you hadn't run away.”

“I never would have run away if you hadn't of frightened me.” Adam said back.

“Well, you shouldn't have been in the west wing.”

“Well, you should learn to control your temper.”

Ronan humpfed and turned over, showing Adam has wounded back. Adam got more water to clean them, but decided against it. He rings out the water and stands.

“I think we should all get some rest. See you tomorrow.”

Adam is almost out the door before he hears Ronan calling him.

“Yeah?”

“Thank you.”

Adam smiles, nods, and walks back to his room.

@. @. @.

Days turned to months and Adam was still a prisoner at the castle. The days at the castle weren't as bad as to be expected. Ever since the wolf attack, Ronan hadn't been as hostile towards Adam. He could keep a conversation with Adam and they spent most meals together. Ronan was acting slightly more human like everyday. He would sit on chairs like a person and he and Adam made a compromise to sip from the bowl instead of attacking it or eating with a spoon. Adam would sometimes bring books from the library and read them during dinner.

Adam was delighted when he found Alice in Wonderland in the shelves. He brought it to the table and when Gansey came over to talk to Ronan, he pulled it out. He started reading from the beginning.

Ronan saw what Adam was reading and dropped his cup on the ground. Gansey ran to get someone to clean up the spill.

Adam asked, “Have you read this book before?”

“Alice was beginning to get very tired from sitting by the bank with her sister, and having nothing to do: once or twice she peeped into the book her sister was reading, but it had no pictures or conversations on it…” Ronan recited.

Adams mouth gaped open. “You know it by heart?”

Ronan nodded, “It was my father's favorite. I used to go into your room and read it to Matthew and Declan because they couldn't read it anymore.”

And that was it.

One night, Adam came downstairs in some garments Matthew and Declan forced him in to find Ronan waiting at the bottom of the steps talking to Henry, Noah, and Gansey, but stopped at Adams arrival.

Henry whispered something to Ronan which he replied, “it's red?”

Henry and Noah groaned and Henry whispered something else in his ear. Ronan's eyes widened before nodding.

Ronan stepped closer to Adam, “Parrish you look...um...good. Nice red suit.”

Adam laughed, “Thank you, Lynch.”

The two lad shared more personal details together such as last names, but why the castle was cursed, Adam did not know.

Ronan cleared his throat, “Come on, Parrish, there's something I wanted to show you.”

They walked for fifteen minutes down an area of the castle Adam hadn't seen before which was surprising because exploring the castle had been Adam's new found hobby. The hallways looked like the rest of the hallways did, gray and slightly creepy. They turned into a room and Adam let out a gasp. It was an engineering workshop that put Adam and Blue workshop to shame. In the far corner, were engineering books and on the other wall were so many tools that Adam hadn't even heard of some of them.

“My father used to hire inventors to make sure the castle had the latest technology. No one ever uses it anymore, so it's yours.” Ronan broke the silence.

“Mine?” Ronan nodded, “you rarely talk about your parents. Are they some object I've never met before?”

Ronan's face dropped. “No...they died before the curse happened.”

Adam pulled out some of the chairs from the workshops tables, “Im so sorry. I never asked you, how did the curse happen?”

Ronan sat down and his shoulders dropped, “it was my fault. After my parents died, I was depressed. I shaved my hair, obtained some new scars on my wrists, fought with Declan. I was a mess. The only people who could me from not ending my life were Gansey, Matthew, Noah, and Henry, but I started talking to a commoner from another kingdom. His name was Joseph Kavinsky. We would meet up street race, drink, and would sometimes fuck. I thought it was no strings attached, but he didn't. He-he fell in love with me and I told him I didn't love him and that he was just a coping mechanism. I never knew he was a warlock. He told me he would place a curse on my castle and all who lived inside it, so I would be as heartbroken as I made him. If I find who loves me and actually loves me, then the curse would be broken. If I don't find someone who by the time the last feather falls from the raven, then everyone I love turns to antiques and I remain a beast.”

Adam was left breathless, “So that's why you got so mad at me when I was in the west wing. Ronan...I'm so sorry.”

Ronan clicked his tongue. “Nothing for you to be sorry over. It's not your fault.”

“It's not your fault either.”

“Parrish.”

“I mean unrequited love sucks, but that's no reason to curse an entire castle.”

Ronan smiled a real and genuine smile unlike his usually smirks that Adam had gotten used to. A moment passed between them where they just stared at each other smiling.

“Wanna make use of the ballroom tonight?” Ronan asked.

“Like dancing?” Adam questioned.

“You can say no.”

Adam thought for a moment. “Id like that.”

@. @. @.

The castle was filled with a sweet presence that came with a ballroom dance. Everyone was excited for the twos dance.

Matthew and Declan dressed Adam in the most amazing silk suit. Blue would have appreciated the yellow color. He felt confident in the form-fitting garment.

He felt flutters when he walked down the steps leading to the first floor. His breath stopped as he saw Ronan on the opposite set of stairs. Ronan's outfit fit him snug and he looked lost until his eyes met Adams. They walked down the steps maintaining eye contact. Ronan outstretched his arm and met Adams.

Music led them to the royal bedroom where Gansey, Noah, and Henry were waiting for them.

Ronan drew Adam into his arms as Gansey started singing. His voice was a little shaky from misuse, but accompanied the dance perfectly.

Ronan certainly knew how to dance from his royal days, but was surprised to learn Adam knew how to dance as well. They moved together in perfect rhythm.

There were stepped on feet and apologetic glances, but overall the night went perfect. The two moved to the balcony to get some air as Henry and his lover Jiang took to the floor and danced the night away.

Ronan let out a breath, “I haven't danced like that in years.”

Adam laughed. “Me either. When Blue and I first moved in together, she thought it was outrageous that I never learned to dance, so she taught me.”

“Do you miss her, Blue?” Ronan asked.

“More than anything. She was my first friend before all this happened.”

Ronan was silent for a moment before continuing, “There is a way to see her.”

“There is?”

“Yeah.” Ronan pulled out the plain mirror and handed it to Adam.

“Show me Blue.”

The mirrors glass shimmered away to show Blue being shoved into a black carriage, the villagers surrounding her with fire, Tad at front.

“Oh my g-d!” Adam shrieked. “Blue in trouble.”

Ronan took a deep breath in, “then you should go to her.”

“I should?”

“She needs help.”

“But what about…”

“You're not a prisoner here, Adam. You haven't been in a long time.”

“But…”

“But nothing. Go.”

Adam reached to give the mirror back. “No. Take it with you so you'll always have a way to look back and remember me.”

Tears welled up in Adams eyes, “I could never forget you.” He leaned forward and kissed Ronan on the cheek, “I'm coming Blue, don't worry.”

@. @. @.

Adam heard Tads booming voice as soon as Adam entered the village. He seemed to be ruling the people up with his harsh words and thunderous voice. The people were following him blindly.

“Tad!” Adam screamed.

Tad let out a giddy smile at Adam arrival. It quickly turned mischievous in a split second, “Adam! It's so good to see you. I'm so sorry to hear about Blue.”

Adam furrowed his brows, “what about Blue?”

Tad put on a mask of remorse. “Blue went off the rails. You weren't here, so I took care of it. She'll be staying in a nice room at Monsieur Blacks asylum.”

“Blue isn't crazy; she's one of the most sane person I know.” Adam scoffed.

Tad whimpered in pity for Adam; the crowd followed. “But she is. She kept raving on and on about a beast.”

“But there is a beast.”

Tad sighed, “not you too.”

“And I can prove it.” Adam held up the mirror. “Show me the beast.”

Ronan's image flickered on the glass. When Adam showed Ronan, the village people gasped in fear.

“Is he dangerous?” One village person shrieked.

Adam replied almost immediately, “No he's very sensitive and gentle once you get to know him.”

Tad looked scandalized. “If I didn't know better, I'd say you have feelings for him.”

“You don't know me well enough to say that truthfully.” Adam retorted.

Tad sneered, “I may not, but I know monsters like that.” He turned to the crowd. “He’ll make off with your children, he’ll come after them in the night. I say we kill the beast.”

The crowd screamed approval while Adam screamed no.

Tad raised his hands up. “It's time to follow me.”

The village people grabbed torches and anything they could use as weapons. Some said prayers before they all took off towards the dark castle.

As soon as the last village was out of sight, Adam ran towards Blue who they forgotten about in the chaos. He threw his arms around her.

“Blue, I have to go warn Ronan.”

“Not without me you won't.”

@. @. @.

They arrived in the middle of the battle, objects vs people. Blue told him that she was going to help the castle and that he should go find the beast. He ran to the west wing as fast as he could in his yellow suit, dodging thrown plates, shovels, and miscellaneous objects. Adams heart was vibrating. What if he was too late?

He made it in time to see Tad leaning over Ronan, dagger in hand. Whatever he was saying to Ronan seemed to be the most painful thing Ronan ever heard. He looked like he was surrendering to Tads knife.

“Ronan!” Adam yelled.

Ronan opened his eyes. “Adam?”

Tad smiled murderously. “Adam! Just in time to see your lovely beast die.”

Ronan and Adam reached for each other as Tad plunged his knife into Ronan's chest.

“No!” Adam sobbed.

Tad took a step to the edge of the balcony to shadow over Ronan. Adam ran, knees buckling, and pulled Ronan's head into his lap.

Tad laughed, throwing his head back, “this is your fault Adam. If you had just married me, your precious Ronan would still be alive. Isn't it just a shame when things don't go exactly as planned?”

Tad laughed and laughed. He was laughing so much he didn't realize his feet went over the edge. Tad roared as he fell his death.

The two, finally left in privacy, stared at each other, tears running down Adams face. Ronan moved his paw to brush away the tears.

“You came back.” Ronan breathed.

“I wished I never left you.” Adam confessed.

“Maybe it's better this way.”

“Stop talking. Conserve your energy.”

“At least I got to see you one last time. Adam I…”

“Ronan? Ronan?”

Adam sobbed into Ronan matted fur.

“Ronan! Don't leave me! You're my home! I...I Love you!”

The castle grew eerily silent. Adam didn't see the last feather fall from the raven from his place in Ronan's chest.

He did see when a bright light washed over Ronan's body. It grew so bright that Adam had to look away. When he opened his eyes, he was met with a man dressed in a loose white dress shirt back tattoos and muscles visible. The man stared at his arms and sobbed with relief. He turned around and Adam could see his entire body. Adam lost his breath. He was by far the most gorgeous man Adam had ever seen, but where had he come from and where was Ronan?

He stepped closer to Adam and Adams stomach dropped. “Adam, look into my eyes.”

Adam did and was met with the most clear water blue. They were so bright, the punched a hole right through Adams guy just like…

“Ronan?” Adam gasped.

Ronan nodded and smiled so bright Adam had to smile back. Adam placed his hands on Ronan's snatched cheeks and looked into his eyes in awe. Tears sprang into his eyes for the third time that night, but this time Ronan cried with him.

Ronan moved closer to Adam, “May I?”

Adam laughed, but nodded.

They came at each other fast until their lips touched each other's. The kiss was chaste and gentle as if they were afraid to break one another. Adam could feel Ronan's tears mixing with his own. When they separated, their foreheads stayed glued shut and they nuzzled noses. They laughed again and hugged almost as a promise to never let go.

@. @. @.

They eventually made it downstairs to be greeted by Blue and villagers now remembering their beloved prince. Ronan and Adam were ambushed by human Gansey, Henry, Noah, and Jiang who pulled them into tight hugs. Opal announced her presence by letting out a inhumane noise and keeping into Ronan's arms. She was followed by Matthew who tackled Ronan's middle and Declan who ruffled Ronan's nonexistent hair. Adam pretended not to notice the looks Gansey and Blue were exchanging before going in to kiss his beautiful, human boyfriend.

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ohmontague · 7 years

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❝ ❀ ☕ ✎ *.:｡ Belle Desrosiers + 100 Questions

Basic Character Questions First name? Isabelle Surname? Desrosiers Middle names? Christine Nicknames? Belle, worm (by Maurice), Beauty Date of birth? September 4, 1993 Age? 23

Physical / Appearance Height? 5’4” Weight? Average Build? Slender Hair colour? Medium brown Hair style? Mid-length Eye colour? Brown Eye Shape? Wide Glasses or contact lenses? Glasses for driving (too many years of reading below the cover with a flashlight shot her eyesight) Distinguishing facial features? Large brown eyes Which facial feature is most prominent? Eyes Which bodily feature is most prominent? Hair Other distinguishing features? Wide smile Skin? Pale, clear Hands? Small, lithe fingers. Usually sans nail polish or rings (they get in the way, and frankly, she gets frustrated by constantly having to reapply nail polish) Make up? Simple Scars? None Birthmarks? None Tattoos? None Physical handicaps? Nearsighted Type of clothes? Vintage and French inspired How do they wear their clothes? Neatly, though she doesn’t have time to iron/press What are their feet like? (type of shoes, state of shoes, socks, feet, pristine, dirty, worn, etc): Wears clean flat shoes (boots or flats) Race / Ethnicity? White, Jewish Mannerisms?: bits lip, fidgets, plays with hair, picks at nail polish Are they in good health? Yes Do they have any disabilities? No

Personality What words or phrases do they overuse? “Beautiful”, “classic”, “ridiculous”, “I was reading”/”I saw this documentary”/”I heard about” Do they have a catchphrase? See above (she’s constantly reading wikipedia articles or reading useless trivia websites and can’t help but find everything fascinating) Are they more optimistic or pessimistic? Optimistic Are they introverted or extroverted? Introverted Do they ever put on airs? Not really What bad habits do they have? See mannerisms What makes them laugh out loud? Bad jokes, physical comedy, satire How do they display affection? Lots of physical contact, looking after people when they’re sad, buying little gifts, “I saw this thing online and thought of you”, saying she loves people Mental handicaps? Socially anxious How do they want to be seen by others? Smart, witty feminist How do they see themselves? Anxious bookish nerd How are they seen by others? Passionate feminist nerd Strongest character trait? Imaginative Weakest character trait? Headstrong How competitive are they? She can be in the right situations Do they make snap judgements or take time to consider? She can make snap judgments about people’s character How do they react to praise? Depending on the person giving, either blushing or a heart “Thank you!” How do they react to criticism? Depending on the person, she either snaps or sulks (harsh criticism); genuine criticism has fairly varied reactions, depending on what the person’s criticizing and how touchy she is about the subject. What is their greatest fear? It was losing her father; now, she doesn’t know. What are their biggest secrets? She’s socially anxious, she misses her mother even though she doesn’t remember her, and sometimes she doubts the existence of God. What is their philosophy of life? Be kind to those less fortunate to make their lives a little easier and hopefully make the world a better place for the next generation When was the last time they cried? A few nights ago, thinking about her father What haunts them? The spyglass her father gave to her at her graduation What are their political views? Staunchly liberal What will they stand up for? The underdog, her family, her opinions about books, most things to be honest Who do they quote? Lots of poets and writers as well as artists and stand up comedians Are they indoorsy or outdoorsy? Indoorsy, but she likes the outdoors What is their sinful little habit? Sometimes she’ll go through an entire box of mini cupcakes in one sitting What sense do they most rely on? Sight How do they treat people better than them? With as much respect as she’s given How do they treat people worse than them? With more kindness than they deserve What quality do they most value in a friend? Loyalty and kindness What do they consider an overrated virtue? Chastity If they could change one thing about themselves, what would it be? Her temper What is their obsession? Books, books, and more books. (Also, travel, making the world a better place, and being kind) What are their pet peeves? Ignorance, people who share memes on Facebook, people who say the movie was better, people who don’t appreciate what they’ve been given, people who assume she wants to get/is married, people who misinterpret classic literature What are their idiosyncrasies? Hates clocks but keeps one of her father’s by her bed; claims to hate Adam but would protect him with her life; self-assured but also incredibly anxious

Friends and Family Is their family big or small? Who does it consist of? Very small, now. She’s an orphan because of her father’s death. What is their perception of family? Family is your blood (though this will change_ Do they have siblings? Older or younger? Only child Describe their best friend. (TBD) Ideal best friend? Kind, forgiving, a good sense of humor, passionate about something Describe their other friends. (TBD) Describe their acquaintances. (TBD) Do they have any pets? Two cats, Billy and Charlie Who are their natural allies? Book lovers, social justice enthusiasts, travel bloggers, liberal arts students Who are their surprising allies? Adam

Past and Future What was your character like as a baby? As a child? As a baby, she was fussy and colicky. As a toddler, she loved to explore and often wound up in scraps. Did they grow up rich or poor? Solidly middle class Did they grow up nurtured or neglected? Nurtured What is the most offensive thing they ever said? Once accidentally said “Fuck” at age three after hearing Maurice swear after dropping a wrench on his foot. It took him a week to shake the habit from her. What is their greatest achievement? Getting accepted to a school she loved. What was their first kiss like? Hasn’t happened yet What is the worst thing they did to someone they loved? Called her father an absent-minded tyrant dwelling on the past once in anger What are their ambitions? To be published What advice would they give their younger self? Keep reading. It’ll keep you sane. What smells remind them of their childhood? Grease, fresh paint, lilacs, library books, new car smell, paper towels, the seaside, vinyl couch What was their childhood ambition? To be a spy or else an adventurer What is their best childhood memory? Papa watching old movies with her while they made brownies What is their worst childhood memory? Being bullied as a child Did they have an imaginary childhood friend? Yes. Her name was Violetta and she was a princess-turned-spy in a kingdom where every street had a library. When was the last time they were crushed with disappointment? Her novel being rejected from a publisher What past act are they most ashamed of? Being cruel to one of her friends because they’d made a separate friend other than her What past act are they most proud of? Throwing cold soup in a bully’s face because he was being cruel to one of her friends Has anyone ever saved their life? Yes, Adam Strongest childhood memory? Her father working overtime so he could afford to buy her a new bike

Love Do they believe in love at first sight? Yes Are they in a relationship? No How do they behave in a relationship? Generally the same as with a friendship, but with more kissing. When did you character last have sex? TBD What sort of sex do they have? TBD Has your character ever been in love? No Have they ever had their heart broken? No

Conflict How do they respond to a threat? Depending on the threat, she either lashes back or remains quiet Are they most likely to fight with their fists or their tongue? Tongue What is your character’s kryptonite? Threatening her loved ones If your character could only save one thing from their burning house, what would it be? Her first edition of The Great Gatsby How do they perceive strangers? Wonderful creatures of humanity What do they love to hate? Reality TV, vapidness, ignorance What are their phobias? Fire, spiders What is their choice of weapon? A well-aimed dictionary What living person do they most despise? Gaston Have they ever been bullied or teased? Yes Where do they go when they’re angry? Her mother’s grave, just to talk to her mother Who are their enemies and why? None at present

Work, Education and Hobbies What is their current job? French tutor What do they think about their current job? She likes it well enough, but it’s tedious What are some of their past jobs? Bookstore clerk, summer camp counselor, babysitter What are their hobbies? Reading, writing, going for walks, painting, watching old movies Educational background? BA in English Intelligence level? High Do they have any specialist training? No Do they have a natural talent for something? She has a strong memory and can remember almost all she reads Do they play a sport? Are they any good? Ha. No. What is their socioeconomic status? Middle class

Favourites What is their favourite animal? Cat Which animal to they dislike the most? Wolf What place would they most like to visit? Italy What is the most beautiful thing they’ve ever seen? The sunrise from the top of a mountain What is their favourite song? “Circle Game” - Joni Mitchell Music, art, reading preferred? Classical/jazz/rap, pre-raphaelite and post-modern, literally everything under the sun What is their favourite colour? Yellow What is their password? She uses the same one for every website. It’s usually a variation on the first letters of words in sentence, with random letters capitalized throughout Favourite food: Pancakes What is their favourite work of art? Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers” Who is their favourite artist? John Williams Waterhouse What is their favourite day of the week? Saturday

Possessions What is in their fridge: Typical foodstuffs + iced tea + lots of cream cheese + french pastries + ingredients to bake What is on their bedside table? A stack of books, a water bottle, a journal, her keys What is in their car? Nothing, really. She keeps it clean. What is in their bin? Lots of receipts, letters from nonprofits, Smithsonian Magazine tear-outs, advertisements for cruise ships, packaging from books ordered online, PBS catalogs, eggshells from baking, lots of hair pulled out from her hairbrush, pill bottles for antidepressants What is in their purse or wallet? Gift cards to bookstores (~5, each with about $2 left), her library card, $15 in cash, two credit cards, lots of random pink/nude lipsticks, a hair tie, a mini notebook for sketching, a book if she can fit it in What is in their pockets? A lipstick, a receipt, a random $10 bill What is their most treasured possession? Her father’s spyglass

Spirituality Who or what is your character’s guardian angel? TBD Do they believe in the afterlife? Yes What are their religious views? Jewish What do they think heaven is? She’s not entirely sure, but she thinks for her it’d be like a library What do they think hell is? A place of nothingness and emptiness and no hope Are they superstitious? Mildly, but mostly for fun What would they like to be reincarnated as? A bird, so she could fly away How would they like to die? Either peacefully or standing up for what’s right What is your character’s spirit animal? What is their zodiac sign? Virgo

Values What do they think is the worst thing that can be done to a person? Take away their basic human dignity What is their view of ‘freedom’? The ability to make your own choices without fear of retribution or embarrassment, so long as another person isn’t harmed When did they last lie? A white lie to a friend What’s their view of lying? White lies are different than black lies When did they last make a promise? Does promising to return library books count? Did they keep or break their last promise? Keep

Daily life What are their eating habits? Two or three meals + a few snacks throughout the day Do they have any allergies? Yes, mildly allergic to nuts Describe their home. Very comfortable and cozy, with hundreds of books, ornaments from around the world, maps of places she’d like to visit, two cats, loads of plants (roses are a favorite), a small piano, lots of warm browns and soft yellows Are they minimalist or a clutter hoarder? Clutter hoarder What do they do first thing on a weekday morning? Shower What do they do on a Sunday afternoon? Watch a period drama and drink tea What do they do on a Friday night? Possibly see a show or go to the movies What is the soft drink of choice? She doesn’t drink soda What is their alcoholic drink of choice? Aperol spritz

Miscellaneous What is their character archetype? (Innocent, Orphan, Hero, Caregiver, Explorer, Rebel, Lover, Creator, Jester, Sage, Magician, Ruler): Sage Who is their hero?: Jane Austen; her father. What or who would your character dress up as for Halloween?: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Are they comfortable with technology?: Yes, but not super savvy If they could save one person, who would it be?: She can’t answer this question (Adam) If they could call one person for help, who would it be? Her father, but he can’t answer. What is their favourite proverb? A little knowledge is a dangerous thing What is their greatest extravagance? Books. What is their greatest regret? Not telling her father she loved him the day he “died” What is their perception of redemption? Being kind to those who hurt you. What would they do if they won the lottery? Buy tons of books, book a ticket around the world, and put the rest up in a savings account What is their favourite fairytale? Psyche and Eros What fairy tale do they hate? Snow White. Belle has a lot of feelings about internalized misogyny. Do they believe in happy endings? Yes What is their idea of perfect happiness? Lots of people who love them, a significant other, lots of animals to keep them company, and the ability to travel whenever they want What would they ask a fortune teller? Will I make a difference? If your character could travel through time, where would they go? Probably 1960s Woodstock What sport do they excel at? Heh. Belle, sports? She’s decent at archery What sport do they suck at? Anything with a lot of coordination (especially basketball) If they could have a superpower, what would they choose? Flight, so she could see the world.

#belle #m; belle

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polygamyff · 5 years

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17. Part 2

I am actually annoyed, I didn’t want anything. I didn’t want no party and my dad is out here surprising me like I’m ten, if he don’t fuck off with that shit “you still angry?” Malik asked while I fixed my bow tie “yes I am, nobody asked for this. I just wanted peace, instead I got to put up with people that are fake as fuck and then now I got to explain to Robyn why I can’t see her tonight, ugh” she is going to be upset with me, this is just not it. I’ll just have to tell her the truth, I hope she didn’t plan anything for me but I will give her the money back if she did. Shaking my head as I typed out the message.

To: Robyn

From: Maurice

Sorry, I can’t make today. I truly mean it when I say this. I’m very upset I can’t see you or be with you. My dad is in Cali and he’s throwing me a bday party and personally I didn’t want it but what can I say. Please don’t be mad at me and I will see tomorrow? X

Pressing send on the message “I know Robyn, she will be pissed with me. She will take this as an offence on why I didn’t choose her instead of this, I got no choice. These things costs thousands, only god knows what he’s done” I’m stressed “well he told me, he said he’s been planning this for a while. He wants the best for you, it will be fun. See your old friends and family members, I mean Naomi will be there” Malik is not wrong she will be there and she doesn’t have the contract so the bitch may act out, I will make her cry again if she attempts to be that stupid. I didn’t want all of this, I am already not happy being thirty, I feel like it’s such a jump. I am closer to forty but also I am going to be a dad so that is an accomplishment for me “I won’t be so negative, I have done well for myself in less than a year. Robyn has made it for me, I think I would be depressed. I don’t think I would want to be here, but anyways. She is here, she hasn’t text me back. I guess we better go and I will act fake shocked, don’t worry” Malik and Shawn broke the news, they told me straight away about this because I was in Anaheim so I could just go to Robyn.

I don’t feel too good about this at all, I am here now so there is nothing I can do and I can’t turn back either. They haven’t opened the doors to the room, it’s literally drinks that are free as we wait to go in “orange juice” Shawn held out the flute shaped glass to me “thank you, I seen a few famous people. I feel all nervous, bad nervous” Leon walked every so quickly back over to me “stop running off to take pictures with the famous” he is crazy “oh yeah, don’t do that. Who did you harass?” Shawn said “it was just Kid Cudi, nothing big. Can you clarify how he knows him?” Leon asked and Shawn shrugged “he knows many people, I think it was when he was renting his place in the Hollywood hills, he became friends with him. I think anyways, I wasn’t always with him you see. Just stay close to me” my eyes widened seeing Maurice’ sister walk up behind Shawn “what you doing here little man?” Shawn looked behind him “little? No thank you, why can’t I be here?” Maurice’ sister looked at me and I swallowed ever so hard, her neck, wrist, ears, fingers all filled with diamonds. I just got some fake shit on but they glisten “this your girl?” she pointed at me “erm, what?” Shawn said like a dumb ass “friends” I answered for him “oh wow, Shawn you being friend zoned. I don’t blame her, you pretty” she waved me off before walking off “acting like I am that ugly” Shawn huffed out.

The huge double doors opened “ballroom is now open!” the guy shouted down the microphone “that means Maurice will be close, just stay with me” looking over at Leon, I am scared as fuck. I can see his family from here, his dad is so old and it’s nasty how he is “let everyone go in before us” I am working myself up way too much “you sweat that make up off I ain’t helping, just relax. You done nothing wrong, you came here for your man. Fix up now” Leon is so pushy “you can just wait here for a while? It’s fine” some white guy touched Shawn’ shoulder “Shawn! Not seen you in so long” they dapped each other “school days, it’s been so long. I am coming in, see you inside” that white is staring at me in a way, I ain’t no meal “talk to you soon” he winked at me “hey!” Shawn spat seeing that “he’s a jerk and always has been but come, let’s just do this” nodding my head “I will walk behind you, a queens train cannot be stepped on” Leon said, I cooed out “I love you” walking behind Shawn, he is such a good friend. I am not a shy person, it’s just I don’t want anything to happen wrong.

My breath got taken a back walking into the ballroom with Shawn ahead of me, I stared around the huge room with my mouth hung open staring at the high walls, the huge chandelier in the middle of the ballroom where it looks to me seems like a dance floor, a stage up at the front and rows upon rows of tables on each side of the runaway down the middle, the tables are elegantly dressed with set table pieces in the middle, something I would have when I get married. The walk seems far, we are getting closer and closer to the front. Seeing the backdrop and two screens at the side of the stage, I pouted my lower lip out. That had to be baby Maurice, it’s him, his ears alone let me know it’s him. He’s got a big head so I assume this child is going to have just that, he is so adorable from being a baby until now, I gasped as the picture changed. How cute, he is wearing a mini suit and his smile, oh my heart “oopps” hitting into the back of Shawn “sorry” he apologised, it was my fault because I was walking too fast and too busy staring at baby Maurice.

Oh my, we cannot be sat here in front, turning my head and seeing the table we walked by. I swallowed hard seeing Tiffany, she sat down and then looked up at me. She gave me a stank look and it’s the first time I can see the hate in her eyes, I knew she disliked me in some way but never showed it but this time she showed it, the hate is real “we sitting here” my eyes bulged out, I am sitting closer to where she is “really!” I said in shock, walking around the table “assigned seats, me, you and then Leon” they have actually got my name on the card a top of my plate, this is crazy “the hell you doing on this table?” Shawn said as I sat down, seeing Nalah pulling a chair back “well seeing as that table is full I have to sit here, you family too” Shawn sat down not looking impressed “who else is sitting here?” I asked, I hope it’s not his parents “my family, they here somewhere. They won’t say much, some of Maurice’ family members are sitting at the side of Leon. It will be fine” nodding my head, I pray that it does go ok “Shawn who is this lady?” that has to be his dad, the eyes “uh dad, it’s just a friend. Sit down” Shawn less than impressed with his dad “how can you make her your friend, hi friend” his dad seems funny “hi” I smiled at him, Shawn is not happy “why can’t you let mom sit next to me” he grumbled “awww you don’t want me sitting next to you now? It’s your boyfriend’ birthday, stop crying” his dad is funny, I like him. Looking back over at the stage, seeing the the picture of Maurice and his dad. He looks old in that picture, he just even old now and I am surprised he could even pick his fat ass up with his frail self. At least I know I will have a cute baby.

Shawn did say Maurice should be coming but it’s been twenty minutes now “I am telling you now, across there is Beyonce, I am sweating. You not listening to me, queen Bey is there. How does he knows her!?” Leon is having a meltdown, looking up at his forehead “you are actually sweating, I can imagine Maurice knows her husband. It is something she would come too” Leon picked the napkin from the plate, patting his forehead “I have to say hi to her, just for her to breathe on me. Robyn, you have to get Maurice to get this done for me” I think I would be the same if I could think about such a thing, I can’t. I have too many other thoughts on my mind, like Naomi walking by this table “wheww chile” Leon said, she didn’t even see this table but that bitch is a little stuck up for what she really is, an ex wife “Robyn!” feeling a pair of hands on my shoulders, looking behind me in shock “Deja” I said in shock “Deja” I said again, moving in the seat “what are you doing here?” she has nothing to do with him “I done told you girl, you got family in this business you get to come” Ally and I met eyes but she looked away “right” I said trying to comprehend what she is saying “can everyone take their seats” thank you god, I don’t wish to speak to this “speak soon” she walked off, I gave Ally the dirtiest look as she looked at me. What a time, bitches are everywhere in this place.

My dad is doing the most, this whole thing is too much “should I call her? I want to know she is ok with me? I didn’t even want this. I didn’t know my stupid father would do this, how would I know?” I knew it would be at this banquet hall, it’s the only hall my dad finds to his standard, we had another event here “you still tripping over Robyn? She good, just give it time. I know she will be ok, she may be having a nap. Just chill bro. Let’s get out of the car and get this shit over with, you better be surprised as shit” opening the car door, I can be fake. It’s my easiest thing to do, in this world well my world there is many fake people that smile in my face. Closing the car door, I am really about to get the age thirty thrown into my face which I didn’t want “dad was like blind fold him, I said he isn’t a child. Just be happy, there is a lot of people here for you” I will try my best, I just want to know Robyn is ok before I can be happy.

I know that through these doors will be a hall filled with people, they are all here for me so I must be positive and I must not be so negative about the whole thing. It’s a nice gesture of my dad so I will plaster a smile on my face “my boy” my head snapped in my dad’ direction “mom, dad. What you doing here?” I said so fake “you think we would miss your birthday, thirty years ago I was so blessed to have you come here!” here my mom goes, being the emotional she is. Hugging my mom “my handsome boy, I am so happy. I am proud of you, everything you have done. I love you” looking up seeing Noami, why is she here but of course she would be “I love you too mom, and thank you” moving back from the hug “happy birthday boy” my dad said, getting my hand out to shake his “thanks dad” he grabbed my hand and yanked me forward, a hug from my dad is weird. The last time he hugged me like this was when I was in rehab, begging me to get better but then fucked me over “you mean so much to me Maurice” nodding my head moving back from the hug “well, I might as well hug you” my sister said “why you playing, you love a good hug” Nalah wrapped both arms around me “I miss you at home, I do” she squeezed me, a big hug from my sister “I miss you too” placing my arm around my sister as I turned around “I know you never want much for your birthday, I do like to spoil you but today your thirty and it’s about you. I want to throw this ballroom for you, to celebrate you” smiling at my dad “I assumed you did, I guess they waiting for me in there” now I have to walk down there.

I guess we better get this over with “you really got this all set up haven’t you? Is this an award show?” I had to ask because they keep saying not yet, like I can just walk “ok so in five” he for real got a whole ass production team “if you all want to stand up and put your hands together and give a big birthday surprise for the birthday boy himself, the heir to the Davenport empire” my dad had to put that in, he is so stupid. The double doors opened, I don’t tend to be shy at such things because I am used to it at such a young age, I am only shy when it comes to Robyn and at times people I care about. I smiled seeing the ballroom filled with people, it’s weird because the only people I care about will be at front, as always. Felling an arm link under mine and I was about to snatch it away but it’s my mom “let’s go prince” my mom is annoying but she is my mother, I started walking into the hall and just looking from the tables in the back it’s people that I have me tin passing and some management within the company “happy birthday big man” some guy said “thank you” I don’t know who he is.

Who allowed Tina to come to such a thing, she don’t know how to act “you look so handsome Maurice, god. If only I was younger” she hugged me tight “god I would be holding his hand Naomi” I just want to get to the stage, that is all but she busy trying to look into my eyes and kissing my cheeks “happy birthday baby” she finally let me go “Tina, you are something else” my mom said chuckling as we walked off, I just wanted to get to the stage anyways. This walk seemed too damn long for me, too many people too. Walking up on the stage, this is too much like honestly. My dad is doing the the most but he has always done that for me, no lie. He has always had the habit of making sure he does the most for me “thank you, thank you for coming” who the hell gave my dad the microphone, god help us all because this is going to be long.

Leon held my hand, looking down at his hand. He knows, he knows I am upset. Just to see Noami stood right next to him on stage, they not touching but she stood next to him close enough claiming what she thinks is hers, not something I want to see at all. I didn’t want to see it and I didn’t want to see them together or even interacting “he loves you” Leon said into my ear “I know, just not nice to see” it’s not nice to see at all, looking up at his family all smiles “I heard some of you say, I can imagine what his birthday will be like when he is forty. If my old self is still here, that is all I can say” the room laughed, I couldn’t on the other hand because I feel like I shouldn’t be here “Maurice Davenport, I remember now when he was born it was the best moment of my life. Besides Nalah of course, I love my daughter but a boy to be born after a while. He has my heart that boy and always has, from the times he sat on my lap in my office. From the moment he was helping his brother on how to walk, this was in my office” a video played on the screen, how adorable is Maurice and look at Malik “he has always been doing that, he is the better part of me and I know that to get where I am now I can’t be nice but him, he wears his heart on his sleeve. He has sacrificed things a lot and has disagreed a lot to things but I always have your best interest in heart, you’re getting older and you’re making more of an impact than I did. To see you in Forbes had to be the proudest moment, you did things I didn’t think you could. You don’t want much for your birthday but from us, we wanted to do this. Happy birthday son” I snarled at Naomi touching his arm as Maurice walked to his to hug him.

He look so handsome, he shaved his outgrown beard, it’ much more cleaner “thank you dad, mom, sister and brother. I appreciate it, thank you for coming all of you. I met many of you on different paths, different reasons. I see some of ya’ll and it was because of a party, I know I threw a good party but for every reason I met you all it was always for a good thing, maybe it was to make a good business deal, a friendship or because you work for me. Each one of you have made a different in my life and I thank you. It will be a birthday to remember and I thank you, each one of you. Appreciate it, and I can’t forger to say thank you Shawn, before he cries about it. Where is he?” Shawn shot up “I’m here!” he shouted “he gets sad when I don’t say his name” the room fell into a fit of laughter “love you bro, I can’t see much with the lights but I hear you” Shawn loves Maurice so much and I can see it now “you are embarrassing, if only you married him” his dad said “shut up” Shawn said in a huff “we close like that!” poor Shawn, his dad won’t leave him alone about it.

Malik placed his hand on my back “come, let’s go and see Shawn” he said to me, seeing Jay “you came here!? You never go to anything” getting my hand out “you know I couldn’t miss it” Jay Z grabbed my hand “you have helped me us out a lot, but speak soon. You busy” waving at Beyonce, I am getting dragged from one end to the other “let’s eat” my dad said, Malik is pushing me to see Shawn “I will, the table is there. I will come” Malik annoying ass “I can see Shawn after, you know this. Tina, don’t get too drunk tonight” she is crazy, I am surprised she hasn’t pushed Naomi out of the way “I won’t baby!” she shouted at me, smiling as I looked ahead of “happy birthday cuz” Kellen is actually speaking to me “thank you, hi uncle” touching his shoulder as I walked by him “Maurice, my dad keep saying we gay” Shawn’ dad is a troll “we are what?” I spat in shock “nigga, watch ya damn foot. Stepping on my friend’ train” my eyes bulged out “Leon?” looking down at the side of me “Robyn” moving back “what? Robyn, what you doing here?” you know when you feel your heart skip a beat, it hurts but it’s because I just saw the love of my life. I don’t know what to do with myself “yeah Maurice, Robyn is here. With everyone around us” she looks so beautiful, oh my god she looks so good “happy birthday Maurice” she smiled at me “thank you” nothing even matter anymore, I can’t take my eyes away from her “you look beautiful” I couldn’t help myself “hey! Maurice, me. Look, I don’t know why you bought him here Malik” Shawn getting in my way “Maurice, we need to eat. Come” I want to sit here, I have never seen such beauty “thank you” Robyn said to me.

I can’t even eat, I am just staring at Robyn. I can’t stop looking, she is eating so that is good so she likes the food but oh my god. She is here, they bought her here. She looks like the queen she is “Maurice, did you not hear me” blinking several times looking at my mom “with what?” Malik is laughing so hard at me right now but I can’t help it, they bought Robyn here so of course I am going to be like this “I said is the food nice? We picked out your favourite” nodding my head “I do” I didn’t taste this shit at all, I can’t sit here and just be so far away from her. Robyn finally caught my eye and my smile grew, she also smiled and looked away from me. Why did she look away, why can’t she look at me with her shy self. My phone pinged, Robyn looked up at me finally and held her phone up but then proceeded to take a picture with Shawn, I felt offended. Grabbing my phone and seeing Bonita has text me, unlocking my phone.

From: Bonita

To: Maurice

Stop staring at me creep!

I chuckled, I am being a creep towards her. I need to see Robyn before this is over, I can’t just sit here “you actually bought her here” Naomi said at the side of me “I didn’t know she would be, I feel so emotional just seeing her here. Someone that means a lot to me” I don’t give a fuck at all, getting up from my seat. I can’t sit here, it’s annoying me. Robyn stared at me all wide eyed “erm, Leon. Can I speak to you” Leon froze with his fork in hand “but I like this?” I just want to touch Robyn so bad, she looks amazing “please” I said, I just need to ask him a favour “you owe me food if it gets cold” he got up, Robyn looked up at me “enjoying the food?” she didn’t say a word but giggled to herself, walking off with Leon “I am very happy to see you both here, it’s been the best gift. Even you Leon, you’re stupid and I find you funny but when we done from here, meaning when everyone has finished eating” walking off into the back of the stage and opened the fire exit “entertainment will start soon, I need you to bring Robyn here. I will be around here. I need to see her, I will let you know when ok?” Leon cooed out “will Mrs Carter be singing” Leon grinned “she could be, just do that for me ok?” he grinned at me “anything for you, I will I promise” I hope I can just hug her, if not then I am just going to do it publicly.

I am trying to find way in getting away from my family, I need too. I mean this could be good, I’ve blew my candles out. Cake is been given out “here” I grabbed the plate from the waitress, Shawn’ family are not there on the table “and this one” holding two plates of cake, I couldn’t go without Leon’ cake. I am rushing my ass across the floor “Maurice, happy birthday” I stopped abruptly “Deja” she is actually here “I told you I am always around” seeing Ally behind “hi” I said to Ally “I saw Robyn, she looks so well with the baby” I cringed and wanted to push the plate of cake in her face, Ally’ eyes bulged out “yeah, I need to go” I need to go, I can’t deal with this mess right now. She has figured it out now, she must have “look at birthday boy” Leon said, placing his plate in front of him. Walking around Robyn’ seat, sitting down on Shawn’ seat “where is he?” holding the plate out to her, looking around me “toilet” she said “you look so beautiful, this dress. Wow. I am in shock, I am so happy you’re here. You are ok yes? Nobody is upsetting you right?” Robyn shook her head “I am just happy that you are” I breathed out laughing “Maurice” looking up, how did he find me “hey Kyle” getting up from the seat “who would have thought, doped up Maurice is this” bursting out laughing “you know it” dapping him “I had to fly out when your dad said” seeing his eyes looking at Robyn “who is this? She fine, wow” staring at my old school friend, I am mentally killing “nobody” I finally dragged out from my mouth “hey pretty, what is your name?” he touched her shoulder “leave her nigga, she good” stepping in front of him “you holding hoes again? You married come on” I will punch him “hey! Old school friends, how are we all” Shawn said, my fist balled up “it’s little Shawn” Kyle said diverting his attention to Shawn, feeling a hand on my balled up fist. Looking to the side of me “it ok” Robyn said, I would have punched him.

I can’t get Leon’ attention, he is too busy screaming about Beyonce. Placing my arm around Malik “Malik! Bring Robyn to me, behind the stage near the fire exit” I said into his ear, Malik nodded his head walking off. I can’t have fun, I just want o have fun with Robyn but I can’t. It’s dope that Bey is actually singing “Tina, no. I don’t want to dance, you go” walking backwards, everyone is very much occupied, as long as people are having fun they good and won’t see me do what I need with Robyn. Seeing Malik speaking to Robyn, that is perfect. As soon as I saw Robyn here at the party me intentions left the room, I just want to be in her arms. I just want to the woman I love, walking by the stage and to the back. I doubt anyone will be here because who would care what I would when there is Beyonce on stage, I mean nothing right now.

Stuffing my hands in my pockets, what is taking her so long. It’s not that damn far, I bet she is just as bad as Leon with the Beyonce thing, rolling my eyes until I see Robyn looking down at her, watching her every step with her clutch in hand. It just hit me so hard, she looked up at me finally and my heart fluttered. She looks so damn good, so good that I can marry her now. I couldn’t lose her, look at her. There is no point talking here, we won’t be able to hear each other. Grabbing Robyn’ hand and walking towards the exit, if anyone sees me here I don’t care because it has nothing to do with them who I am with. Pushing the exit door open, and then turning around, closing it a little “you look so beautiful oh my god, wife” hugging Robyn so close “thank you, I have been dying to touch you so much. I have missed you” I feel so whole again, I feel healed. It hurt being away from her, just to be like strangers “I know Robyn, it hurt to not touch you, the best surprise has been you. You being here, you look so good I want to marry you now” feeling Robyn press a kiss to my neck, moving my head back “and I would accept, I wasn’t so sure about coming but I don’t care. You kept making me shy, I was eating, well I was so into my food and then you are just staring at me” I chuckled, Robyn gasped “I love this song, please” hearing the guitar string play “what song?” I said confused “come” she dragged me back out to the back of stage.

“And it's me and you, that's all we'll have when the world is through. Cause baby, we ain't got nothing without love. Darling, you got enough for the both of us. So come on, baby, make love to me” Robyn started singing, my hands in hers. The words spreading warmth through me, healing from the inside all the cracks and wounds that had grown with loving her. Pulling Robyn into me, she placed her arms around my neck and I placed my arms around her waist “Hey, I don't know much about guns but I, I've been shot by you, hey! And I don't know when I'm gon die but I hope, that I'm gon die by you, hey! I don't know much about fighting but I know I will fight for you” she placed her hands on my chest “hey! Just when I ball up my fist I realise, I'm lying right next to you” she got me choked up here, resting my head against hers as we swayed “Pull me in close and don't let me go, make love to me” bringing my hand up and I pressed my thumb against her lips, our eyes locked as she smoothed her hands up over my chest, I tasted her breath against my mouth before I put my lips against her. Soft touches, tasting, nipping. Before I then dove for her, my hand at the back of her head, I kissed her like I have been dying to do, she kissed me back, long and hard. Digging her fingers into my shoulders, holding on. Moving my kisses away from her lips and down her cheek and to her neck “I love you so much” Robyn said, moving my head back “I love you too” touching the side of her face, Robyn bought her hand up to my lips “you got lipstick on there” she shouted over the music, nodding my head “you did eat though? Mini Bonita eat too?” leaning down “did you eat mini Bonita?” I always do it in public, I don’t care “oh shit!” Robyn spat, I stood straight “what?” looking to where Robyn is looking, my sister and Tiffany just staring.

Leaning to Robyn’ ear “you go, it’s fine. Tiffany can fuck off, she knows anyways. You go and I will find you after, that was beautiful though” kissing her cheek “you sure? I can stay” shaking my head “can you do me one thing though?” Robyn asked “yeah what is it?” Robyn giggled before she spoke “get me a picture with Beyonce, please” I couldn’t help but laugh “I got you, you go have fun” she don’t need to be here with sister, Tiffany ran off when I saw her but she can fuck. Watching Robyn walk off “I am sure she will be fine, we need to talk” my sister said behind me, turning around. My sister went to be same spot where me and Robyn was talking, holding the fire exit door as I walked out “I thought that was Shawn’ girl, but ok” my sister said “why was you there? How long was there?” how did they know “I saw you walking here, then I saw her walk here. I thought see what the deal is, I thought you was having sex but I saw more than that” I didn’t want my sister finding now anything but now look “Tiffany, I don’t know where she came from but wow” I don’t know what to say now “don’t tell anyone” is the only thing I can say “Maurice, it was the most romantic thing I saw. I couldn’t stop watching, wow. I am not telling anyone but I have never seen that side to you. That glisten in your eyes, pure happiness. You got my heart filled, who is it? I mean is this why you’re missing?” she don’t seem angry “I am in love, we met at Kellen’ wedding and that was it. Please don’t tell anyone” my sister shook her head “who likes Noami anyways, remember when I said to you I wish you could be happy. Why would I want to ruin that for you? Is she pregnant? You was touching her stomach” nodding my head “Maurice, you never said! You didn’t tell me? Your older sister, I am not going to hate you for being happy” my sister looks all teary eyed as she hugged me.

I hope Maurice is not in trouble, that was in my intention. I can’t even think about anything Leon is telling me at all, seeing Maurice and his sister appear from the side of the stage and he doesn’t look upset or anything, they are both just talking. He is not sad so I am happy with that, catching Deja staring at me but she is giving the dirtiest look ever. Who is she giving that look too but seeing Ally with her is kind of fits, she must be talking shit about me and I am ok to fight her if she wants a fight. My heart feels so warm and full of love, singing one plus one to the man I love how fitting and Beyonce is here singing it. How crazy is this, my man knows Beyonce, that is everything and more “I am so emotional Robyn, seeing Maurice and now Jay Z, what is life” Leon is too damn happy about all this and I don’t blame him.

“Robyn” I jumped a little at Maurice saying my name “hiiii” why am I like this now “come and Leon” he said, my face dropped he got Beyonce here, in front of my face “Mrs Carter this is my two friends, you don’t mind taking a picture with them now do you?” I want to die a little inside “of course, come and you too Maurice” shuffling over to Maurice, Leon already ran to her to hug her but I want to hug Maurice. I just stood at the side of Maurice instead, his arm draped over me, the photographer came over and took a picture of us “thank you so much” I said, she didn’t need too “I love you so much!” Leon is such a fan, turning to Maurice “I am going now, I am very tired. I feel really weak, but come to the apartment even if I am asleep ok” I would love to wake up in his arms “I promise, I will be right behind you” smiling lightly “Leon, leave Beyonce alone come” I want to get out of the clothing, I feel slightly not well but I won’t tell Maurice that.

I breathed out leaving the ballroom, Noami didn’t attack me, Tiffany didn’t either, Deja is cancelled. I am happy to get out of there alive, thank you god. Looking behind me and at Leon just being the idiot he is, he won’t leave Maurice alone now “well if it isn’t Robyn side bitch Willis” seeing Tiffany and Deja “shut up Tiffany, get a life” I don’t want to start with her “he is married Robyn, I didn’t think you was like that. You honestly messing with a married now?” Deja is speaking to me “so you pregnant now? You fucking bitch, you set out to be pregnant by him” my face dropped “you told!?” I shouted “I thought she knew” I don’t need this “you didn’t like the fact I am in that family that you had to open your legs for him, you purposely got pregnant! You fucking dirty bitch” Tiffany came at me but I stepped back “I do not think so” I pointed out “I know you’re fucking ass can’t fight” I gasped seeing Tiffany being pushed to the ground and sent flying across the floor “don’t you fucking touch her” Maurice spat, Leon rushed from behind Maurice “you bitch, you want to fight” Leon pointed at Deja “no, I was just here” Tiffany got up from the floor “oh my god, that is assault!” Maurice ignored her “are you ok?” he asked me, nodding my head touching his arm in shock “you back down now Tiffany, you do not touch my brother. You go back in there before you end up on your ass, you don’t start with family” Nalah said “Maurice, you go back in. You can’t be out here playing around like this, just go. People are noticing, just go” Maurice walked off, he looks so sad “Tiffany, you better move and you whoever you are, she didn’t hurt you” shaking my head “ok, good. Let’s get you out of here” Leon hissed at Tiffany “sort your weave out Kelly Price!” he shouted, I am in shock that Tiffany wanted to harm me and my baby.

#chrianna #chrianna ff #fanfic #fanfiction

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christinaepilzauthor-blog · 7 years

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The Poster Boys of 17th Century England

by Anna Belfrage

Whenever people talk about those handsome Stuarts, chances are they'll come dragging with Prince Rupert, nephew to king Charles I, valiant royalist commander, owner of a famous dog, and yes, he was good-looking as can be seen in the attached portrait. So were his brothers – especially Maurice, but a friend of mine says there's no point in expending much affection on a man who got lost on his ways to the West Indies (What can one say? Big, big sea, no GPS – plus there was a hurricane involved) which is why said friend remains devoted to Rupert.

Lord John and Lord Bernard Stuart

Good looks bred true among the Stuart men – as can be seen in this portrait by Anthony van Dyck of Lord John and Lord Bernard Stuart. This is a fascinating portrait. Arrogant and endearingly young at the same time, the two brothers are depicted in the late 1630s, sixteen and eighteen years old respectively. Lord Bernard, the younger, sports blue and silver, and if one looks closely, one can see he's wearing pattens over his dashing boots, reluctant to sully those beauties in the mud and grime to be found on your average 17th century street. Long, flowing hair, rich clothes, that cape worn with flair – behold two men intent on making their mark on the world. It was 1639, the young men were presently on their European tour, and who could have thought they would soon be embroiled in the vicious fighting of the English Civil War?

The first Esmé, James VI's favourite

John and Bernard were the youngest sons of Esmé Stuart, 3rd Duke of Lennox. Their father, in turn, was the son and namesake of James VI's favourite Esmé Stuart, a very frenchified Scotsman who to the dismay of other, more rugged Scottish nobles, exerted considerable influence over the young James VI. Our dashing Esmé Sr. was the cousin of James' father, the murdered Henry Darnley – and had lived in France for the first twelve years or so of James VI's life. In short order, he became first the earl, then the duke of Lennox – but he had to convert to Presbyterianism before he could succeed to those titles, as his Calvinistic countrymen would have no papist in such a position of power. James loved his cousin. Given his singularly affection-free childhood, what with his mother being imprisoned in England and he himself being brought up in the strictest Calvinist environment possible, it is no wonder he was attracted to this new relation of his. Further to this, Esmé was elegant and handsome, carrying with him a whiff of a world outside the somewhat dreary confines of Scotland. The other Scottish grandees did not much care for Lennox, and one who positively disliked him was James Douglas, the Earl of Morton and one of James' former regents. Very few liked Morton, who does not seem to have believed much in silk gloves. It was therefore a rather easy matter for Esmé to rid himself of Morton by accusing him of being party to the murder of the king's father. Morton was guillotined – a fancy novelty at the time. Morte a la Francaise, as Esmé may very well have said. Even with Morton gone, the Scottish Kirk remained suspicious of Lennox, as did most of the Scottish noblemen. Some months later, things had turned and James was forced to exile his cousin. Esmé returned to France where he shortly died, his heart being carried back to James as a little gift. I'm not quite sure how James reacted to this present—a man raised by Calvinists would have little time for any sort of relics, even if it was the heart of a beloved relative—but he was delighted to welcome Esmé's nine-year-old son, Ludovic, now the 2nd Duke of Lennox.

Ludovic

Ludovic would go on to be quite the man about court, entrusted with one high office after the other. As can be seen, he wasn't bad-looking, even if the beard is perhaps a bit too much for my taste. Whether Ludovic's genes would have carried through to the next generation we will never know, as he died in 1624 leaving no legitimate heir. Instead, his title passed to his younger brother Esmé Jr., but this gentleman expired of spotted fever some six months later. However, in difference to Ludovic, Esmé had plenty of children. Five of these were sons who survived to adulthood, among them the two handsome boys van Dyck immortalised in the portrait at the beginning of this post. Both John and Bernard died fighting for their king. John was only twenty-two when he died at the Battle of Cheriton in 1644, and Bernard was to die a year later of injuries sustained at the Battle of Rowton Heath.

George

The dashing John and Bernard Stuart had an equally dashing older brother, Lord George. He has also been painted by van Dyck, but in a somewhat more pastoral surrounding. It is thought the painting was made to commemorate his marriage and includes a Latin inscription "love is stronger than I". The reason for this was that George had been naughty and married on the sly, without either the bride's parents, or, more importantly, King Charles I's permission. For some time there, George was consigned to the dog house, but war came swooping, and just like his younger brothers, George hastened to place his sword at the king's service. Just like his brothers, George died – at the battle of Edgehill in 1642. His little son was four… By the end of 1645, only two of Esmé's five sons remained alive. His eldest son and heir, James Stuart, was as handsome as his brothers – almost more, actually. Yet again, we owe van Dyck for having conserved this handsome man to posterity.

James Stuart

James Stuart, 4th Duke of Lennox and 1st Duke of Richmond, stands before us resplendent in his finery – and yes, the Order of the Garter is most prominently displayed. As loyal to his king as his brothers, James was to invest most of his fortune in shoring up the royalist cause. A brave fighter, he also accompanied the king during his confinement at Hampton Court, and after the king's execution, James was one of the four noblemen who carried the remains of the king to his final resting place at St George's Chapel. He died some years later, leaving his titles to his very young son – who in his turn died in 1660. The fifth brother, Ludovic, seems to have retired to the relative peace and tranquillity of his lands in France. A wise move, as he was the only one of the five brothers to remain alive when the Wheel of Fortune turned, thereby reinstating the monarchy in England. Once again, a Stuart sat on the English throne, and while Charles II may not have been quite as gorgeous as his distant cousins, he definitely had his share of the Stuart looks.

Charles Stewart, George's son

Seeing as Ludovic was a Catholic priest, he left no legitimate heirs, and so it was that all the titles, all the extensive landholdings, came to Charles Stewart, son of George, the brother who had died at Edgehill. Charles had his fair share of the Stuart looks, and could afford to spend lavishly on clothes and accessories. He married several times, the third time to his distant cousin the very gorgeous Frances Stewart (so gorgeous was Frances she was used as the model for Britannia on the coins minted to commemorate the war against the Dutch thereby proving good looks was not only the prerogative of the Stuart men) despite knowing Charles II had quite a tendresse for the lady in question.

Frances, La Belle Stuart

Apparently, Charles II had it in him to forgive the happy couple, and our Charles rose to become one of Charles II's most trusted men, and it was in this capacity he was dispatched to Denmark in 1671, there to attempt to convince Denmark to join England in making war on the Dutch. While there, Charles drowned in Elsinore, and just like that, the Stuart Dukes of Lennox and Richmond had ceased to be. Or?

Charles Lennox

Some years later, the titles were resuscitated and given to Charles II's son with Louise de Kérouiaille, Charles Lennox. At the time, the new duke was a boy of three, but over time he grew up to be a competent enough man and a great fan of cricket. And just like so many of the Stuart men, this little Charles had his fair share of good looks. No wonder, given his father and his pretty, pretty mother… A handsome bunch, all those Stuart men. Personally, it is the portrait of James Stuart and his dog that I find the most compelling. Such a handsome, confident man – a good man, as expressed by the devotion in his greyhound's eyes, as testified by how he placed his entire fortune at the disposal of his king. Ultimately, it would not help: King Charles I lost his war against Parliament, and men like James, like his brothers John, Bernard and George, paid the price for their loyalty. But once, those five Stuart brothers had it all. For a very brief period of time, the world was their oyster, there to be enjoyed in full. I hope they did! All pictures in public domain and/or licensed under Wikimedia Creative Commons ~~~~~~~~~~~

Had Anna Belfrage been allowed to choose, she'd have become a professional time-traveller. As such a profession does not exist, she became a financial professional with two absorbing interests, namely history and writing.

Presently, Anna is hard at work with The King's Greatest Enemy, a series set in the 1320s featuring Adam de Guirande, his wife Kit, and their adventures and misfortunes in connection with Roger Mortimer's rise to power. And yes, Edmund of Woodstock appears quite frequently. The first book, In The Shadow of the Storm was published in 2015, the second, Days of Sun and Glory, was published in July 2016, and the third, Under the Approaching Dark, was published in April 2017.

When Anna is not stuck in the 14th century, she's probably visiting in the 17th century, specifically with Alex(andra) and Matthew Graham, the protagonists of the acclaimed The Graham Saga. This is the story of two people who should never have met – not when she was born three centuries after him. More about Anna on her website or on her blog!

Hat Tip To: English Historical Fiction Authors

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