#misguided royalty

[aidenwaites]

ALSO I can't say whether or not it's good on its own merits but apparently that more recent series adaptation where it's about like,, a father and daughter instead or whatever also gave Ajvide Lindqvist 0 royalties. Which. Yknow. Sucks big time

[pygmi-cygni]

writing tip - research

research is one of the pillars of writing. a poorly researched fic, essay, short story, novel, etc is immediately apparent because of several things:

lack of depth

stagnant plot or development

confusing or inconsistent setting

it doesn't matter what genre you write, if it's original or fiction, whatever. you need to research. depending on the relevance of your writing, the depth of research may vary, but it needs to happen. you do not know everything.

Fantasy

I see a lot of writers and authors use fantasy as an excuse to avoid research. Shut the fuck up. Every good fantasy is based on a real ocurrence or social dilemma. That's why we like it so much.

'but pygmi, fantasy is made up! it isn't real!'

SHUT UP. Even if you don't realize it, your story will have elements that readers are intimately familiar with. If you flub something, it will be noticed.

Besides, just because you make stuff up doesn't mean you can be inconsistent. You'll just have to fill in the cracks with made up stuff, which will even out to being about the same amount of effort. Pick your poison, either way you're gonna feel it.

Research is not everybody's favorite. I like it, personally, I think it's like going on little side quests for knowledge. But I understand if you wanna skip all the business and get to writing your baby. No shame.

Let me give you some pointers to make sure the time you spend researching is relevant and well spend.

Lists! God I love lists. after you have outlined your story and your characters and everything, make a list of all the things you need to have a deeper understanding of. This means determining priorities. - How important is The Thing? Will it majorly affect plot or character development? Is it a focal point of the setting? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, it's important. research.

Big picture, little picture. How important is The Thing (again)?. How much detail do you need to know? Especially when it comes to royalty or a hierarchal system, I see research being misguided. There are so many nuances to royal interactions that I could give a rat's ass. Big picture, general outline. I don't need to know everything, just basic courtesy, terms of address, appropriate convo. done. but if your MC is a coroner? might wanna put more detail into that; you'll be talking about the job a lot. determine how much the element will affect your story and go from there.

Don't fudge it for the plot. You'll have a preconceived notion of a certain job description, and then research it and think 'oh that's actually boring.' Don't muddle up the rules just to fit the aesthetic. It's sloppy, and your readers will notice.

To practice researching, pick your topic and after learning a bit about it, try teaching a powerpoint to your parents or friends. if you feel comfortable enough with that knowledge to do it successfully, I'd say you have a good enough understanding.

Setting

researching location is a big one that often gets overlooked. You don't always need to memorize maps, but get a general idea of the city/country layout so when you say "they drove 20 minutes from A to B" it makes sense, rather than having a reader think "Uh, A to B is closer to four hours, wtf?"

if you are making up your city, make a list of important streets and locations in relation to each other. This will help you keep it straight and organized in your head.

Get a feel for flora and fauna. Palm trees don't grow in Alaska. Don't write an Alaskan city with palm trees.

Weather? what's it like? Let me tell you, Portland doesn't get higher than 102F. rainy, cloudy, all that stuff.

Atmospheric details really add a lot, especially if your audience is from that location. It adds another layer of relatability. Also, use weather/plants/animals to your advantage! symbolism, possible curse, all that stuff.

Eras

Oh my god stop fucking this up. Baroque, Elizabethan, Edwardian, Middle Ages ARE DIFFERENT FROM EACH OTHER. STOP SLAPPING FANCY CLOTHES ON PEOPLE AND CALLING IT THE OLDEN DAYS.

get an idea of when electricity was widespread in homes. when was the refrigerator invented? did they use the word 'hella' in 1950? this kinda stuff is important for not breaking the illusion of a time difference. If you are writing a period piece and someone is chatting with a neighbor like it's 2015, we'll have some questions.

Unless it's doctor who. you guys can do literally whatever.

Plot and Character Development

If plot and characters are poorly researched, you are limiting the opportunities for growth. In researching your MC's occupation, you may discover a cool side effect that connects to a plot device. Stagnant, stale characters can be spruced up with a more developed backstory.

All in all, research is really important for your story. regardless of how professional it is, tumblr or the new york times. Do your research. As a writer, you are representing the community in your own way. Do us proud.

xox love you

[okshu]

—ㅤ⠀ 峠ㅤ⠀ 𝗐͟𝗐͟𝗐﹕﹙ATEEZ FIC RECS﹚

all fics of ateez that i read and went "omg wow". the authors are really talented too so make sure to check out their other works.

▨ LEGEND ㄑ ꮺ favs . f,a,s - fluff, angst, smut

𖥔 MEMBERS ˖

홍중 ─── kim hongjoong

i. guns and roses by @baekhvuns [s,ꮺ ] [mafia, enemies to lovers; 6.4k.] ii. love tailored by @arafilez [f] [e2l, fashion designer!khj x ceo!reader; 8.5k] iii. look after you by @mingigoo [f,s] [nurse fem reader x struggling musician hongjoong, enemies to lovers (kind of), some angst, smut, fluff, hospital au; 10.3k] iv. promise by @daesukiii [a,f] [angst, some fluff, hurt/minimal comfort, e for everyone, established relationship; 1.8k] v. ugh, as if by @ennysbookstore [s] [one-shot, punk!hongjoong x feminine!reader, enemies to lovers (kinda); 11.13k]

.

성화 ─── park seonghwa

i. sleep-talker by @mingigoo [f, s, ꮺ] [roommates au, vacation au, one bed trope, forced proximity au; 10.2k] ii. the duke and his general by @baekhvuns [a,s] [royalty, arranged marriage au, romcom, miniseries; 61k] iii. mr and mrs park by @baekhvuns [f,a,s] [mafia, romcom, e2l, single parent au, 50k] iv. bodyguard by @baekhvuns [f,a,s] [romcom, bodyguard au + forbidden relationship au; 37.8k] v. misguided by @flurrys-creativity [f,a]

.

윤호 ─── jeong yunho

i. come fly with me by @hwaightme [f, ꮺ] [love at first sight, bit of angst, slice of life; 9k] ii. bedfellows by @sungbeam [f] [one bed trope, frnds who cuddle; 1.1k]

.

여상 ─── kang yeosang

i. crash landing on you by @atozfic [f, a, s, ꮺ] [mild enemies to friends to lovers, fake dating au, nepobaby!yeosang, student reader; 20.3k] ii. 7:29 P.M. by @edenesth [a, comfort] [timestamp]

.

산 ─── choi san

i. this youth of craziness by @baekhvuns [f, s, ꮺ] [slice of life, drama, romcom & travel dreams; 40k] ii. when he's (drunk) too much by @atinybitofau [f, a] [headcannons]

.

민기 ─── song mingi

i. butterflies by @hwaslayer [f, s, ꮺ] [established relationship/marriage, parents au; 3.2k] ii. 23:47 by @lvlystars [f]

.

우영 ─── jung wooyoung

i. 3.20 a.m. by @strawberryseonghwaz [f] ii. bf texts w/ wooyoung by @beenbaanbuun [f] iii. change of heart by @hotteoki [f, ꮺ] [suitor!wooyoung x princess!reader, arranged marriage, medieval era, strangers to lovers] iv. 21:23 P.M. by @adoringsan v. i don't want to by @sanjoongie [f, ꮺ] [office au, single parent au, rivals to lovers; 1k]

.

종호 ─── choi jongho

i. scoot over, choi by @seonghwaddict [f, ꮺ] [one bed trope, slight fluff, slight enemies to lovers but they're not quite at the lovers part yet, agent jongho and reader; 0.6k] ii. falling and sleeping by @seonghwaddict [f] [crack, friends to lovers; 1.5k]

𖥔 OT8 // POLY ˖

i. ateez in the multiverse by @hotteoki [ f, ꮺ ] [ headcannons ] ii. splish splash by @atozfic [s] [no use of y/n, swim team au, lifeguard!reader, pro-swimmers!sanhwawooho; 20k+] iii. asking bf!ateez to draw you a flower by @eightmakesonebraincell [ f ] [ text imagines ] iv. world episode fin:will by @arafilez [f,a,s] [ series ] v. happy death day by @flurrys-creativity [s] vi. ateez as mafia member who fall for you [ one . two . christmas sp ] by @eightmakesonebraincell [ f ] [ headcannons ]

copyright to respective authors, don't forget to reblog their works ^^ okshu

[loversatthegreatdivide]

Heavily Lies the Heart - Chapter 4

Masterlist // Continue Reading

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x F!OC Word Count: 1.8k Tropes: mutual pining, fluff, angst with a happy ending, royalty Warnings: death Summary: When two second-borns looking for direction meet by chance, can they find purpose in each other? Or will circumstance keep them apart? A/N: Hello darlings. Sorry this wasn't posted as fast as the others; I'm seeing Hozier today and the pending excitement has had my ADHD going bananas. I also just want to say I love love....that's all.

Beatrice flung herself onto the bed, smiling as she stared up at the ornate ceiling above. Her mind was abound with memories of the past few nights, and as she remembered she could hardly believing it had all been real.

She clutched the smudged handkerchief tightly to her chest, feeling her heartbeat thumping quickly below. For perhaps the hundredth time that week, she thought back to his face in that moment. A slight flush to his cheeks as he so deliberately avoided her gaze. Benedict was undoubtedly a handsome man, but in that moment she found him utterly adorable. He always seemed so effortlessly charming; she presumed embarrassment was a feeling he was rather unfamiliar with. It was gratifying then, seeing him be the one flustered when he could make her heart race with just a look.

And he did make her heart race.

After that first visit, she had gone out to see him twice more--each night more wonderful than the last. She would come to his window and he, now knowing to expect a possible visit, would be waiting. On her second visit, Benedict joked that he felt very much like the Juliet to Beatrice's Romeo. She had laughed, but silently wished for their story to end up much happier than Shakespeare's had.

Each visit fell into the same pattern: He would come down, they would say their hellos, and then the pair would set off down the street arm in arm. They spent the time getting to know each other more and more, and if Beatrice had been taken with Benedict on their first meeting, she was all but consumed with him by the end of their fourth. She hung on his every word, lived for every laugh. He would smile at her, and the whole world disappeared.

Throughout the day Beatrice felt like a caged animal, waiting for nightfall when she could escape and be with him once again.

She rolled over, taking a pillow from the head of the bed to rest herself on. She looked at the handkerchief in her hands, her fingers running across the lace border as she lost herself fully to her deepest thoughts.

She was aware that she knew less than most about love. It was not only romantic love Beatrice had little experience with--the love one might experience with a dear friend, or even close family was overall foreign to her.

She knew her father loved her, but he was rarely around to show it. He spent most of his time out with his friends--or more often, with his mistress. The only way he seemed to be able to show love for his daughters was by restricting their freedoms in a misguided attempt to protect them.

Then of course, there was Charlotte. Beatrice loved her elder sister, but it was undeniable they had little in common. Charlotte had always been a tomboy with a rebellious streak, in contrast to Beatrice's more artistic, quiet demeanor. Charlotte did whatever she pleased regardless of the expectations place upon her, and considered her younger sister quite the bore. This led the sisters to care for one another, but to spend little time together.

Then, there was her mother.

Caroline had spent little time with her daughters, having lived separately from Beatrice her entire life. Then of course the time Beatrice did have with her mother was shared with Charlotte, whom Caroline clearly favored. She had taken no pains to see her daughters as they grew, before one day deciding to quit the country and move abroad. Beatrice had not heard from her since.

She had little in the way of friends, and of course no cousins to spend her time with. She tried making friends with the staff she sae frequently, but whenever they became too friendly her father would promptly fire and replace them.

Her only genuinely close relationships were her grandparents. Even then it was hard to say that she had a typical relationship with either of them, her grandmother having a rather hard time with sentimentality and her grandfather's illness making it difficult to have a consistent relationship.

Considering everything, she rationally understood her feelings of affection could be completely misdiagnosed.

Even so, Beatrice had no choice but to believe her feelings for Benedict were nothing less than love. Surely friendship could not fill one with such longing? Such a desire to be near another person so deeply one may perish from the sheer torture of anticipation? Surely one would not feel their heart skip at the mere sight of a person they did not truly love?

Beatrice knew she was naive. She knew that she was inexperienced and prone to daydreaming. Despite it all, she was certain the constant ache in her chest was the symptom of being truly and completely lovesick. And as much as she knew it could only end in heartbreak, she couldn't help foolishly hoping for something more.

If they could even survive the night.

---

Benedict looked himself over in the mirror for the dozenth time in as many minutes. He pulled on his waistcoat, wondering if perhaps he should change it again, before making a disgusted noise as he turned away.

He felt utterly ridiculous.

How many ladies had he courted in his life? How many more had been declined in disinterest? And yet here he stood, completely enthralled by a woman he could hardly wrap his head around. He felt he had begun to know her quite well, yet still so much remained a mystery to him.

He ran both hands through his thick, dark hair as his eyes fell to one of the many portraits he had attempted to paint since they had met. Despite multiple attempts, he found he simply could not do her beauty justice. Benedict looked into the eyes of the painting staring back at him, and sighed.

He thought about the last few nights. The talks they had, the jokes they made, the looks they shared; all of it seared into his heart like a brand. Upon each parting, he yearned so fiercely to see her again that he thought certain he would never feel another emotion in his life.

They had spoken only a handful of times, but when he had watched her walk away that previous night he was overwhelmed with the urge to chase after her, to hold her tightly and never be parted again. More than any other night before she had seemed apprehensive--perhaps even worried--and it made his heart ache.

It was in that moment he knew he had grossly misjudged his feelings. He had never been simply curious; from their very first meeting he had already begun to fall for her.

Benedict turned back to the mirror, the hesitation clear on his face.

And what was he to do about it? Was he now supposed to court her? Marry her? He had always thought the whole business of the marriage mart hardly worth the trouble; was he now to change his whole point of view for a woman with whom he would very likely have no chance with?

After all, as much as they had shared, Beatrice had held fast to the secret of her lineage. Given her effect on the men of the ton, and her absolute belief that he would put distance between them should he learn the truth, Benedict could only assume she must be from some truly great house. If that were the case, could he even measure up? Beatrice had already told him any future marriage would likely be arranged by her father; as a second son with no title of his own, how could Benedict possibly compete?

He sighed, smoothing his ruffled hair. He stood up a bit taller, giving himself a reassuring nod before moving away to grab his coat and head downstairs.

He had no idea what obstacles he may face if he choice to pursue Beatrice formally, but he wanted to try. How could he do anything less than everything possible when it was Beatrice he was fighting for?

---

Benedict stood with his brother by the drink table, nervously sipping his lemonade as he searched the crowd. He had insisted that his family not arrive fashionably late as they seemed want to do. It had looked suspicious to his family, but he did not care. If things went well tonight, perhaps he may finally have something to tell them.

"Are you well brother?" Colin asked, eyeing his elder brother as Benedict's eyes moved across the crowd, "Are you looking for someone?"

"What? Of course not," Benedict replied, his face still turned from Colin.

"No of course not; you're simply admiring all the eager young ladies looking for a dance."

"Yes exactly, I--" Benedict stopped, finally looking at his brother as he scowled, "Oh yes, ha ha," he said sarcastically.

"It is obvious you are searching for someone; do you honestly not wish to tell me?" Colin questioned, looking somewhat surprised.

Benedict sighed, "It is...complicated. But you are correct brother, I am looking for someone."

"And this someone--it is a woman, yes?" Colin asked.

"Isn't is always?" Benedict mumbled, "When we last spoke, she had seemed rather...well, she was not herself. I am beginning to wonder if she will show up at all."

Colin clapped a hand to his brother's shoulder, "Worry not Benedict, I am sure she will be here."

Benedict opened his mouth to give some snarky reply, but was cut off as the sound of trumpets heralded the arrival of royalty. Benedict thought Beatrice truly must be late, to be arriving after the queen.

"Her Royal Majesty, Queen Charlotte," the steward called out.

The queen entered in all her splendor, with every head in the room turned to take her in. She made her way towards the dias at the far end of the room, which had already been set up with chairs. Benedict turned his attention back to the crowd, hoping the stillness of the room might make it easier to spot the woman he searched for.

His head snapped back almost immediately, not expecting a second announcement.

"Her Royal Highness, Princess Beatrice Amelia Sophia of Wales."

Benedict felt his heart stop, barely comprehending what he saw.

There she was, looking just as she had the night of the ball; the same nervous smile on her face, the same style of hair and dress. She moved towards the far side of the room as her eyes subtly looked through the crowd. Her dress sparkled in the light as she took her seat neside the queen--beside her grandmother.

As she sat on the small stage, she continued to search through the crowd. He was certain she was looking for him, and from her face it was clear she worried what she would see.

Finally, her eyes found his, and the world went silent.

----------

Tags: @empressnatsume @sarahskywalker-amidala @may-and-lay @lovelyxjanett @asterizee @g4ns3y @bubblegumcat229

[spahhzy]

Knightfall child 2: Grandmother...lord of lords will you take my sister and I too Olive Garden?

Salem: I grant your request.

Knightfall child 1: We still must convince Mother...

Knightfall child 2: If we do this grandmother...I need to know that you will not lose.

Salem: No, I'd win.

Later that day.

Cinder: The answer is STILL no!

Knightfall child 1: Mother, your decision is unfair and misguided!

Cinder: You want fairness? As you live in my castle untaxed?

Knightfall child 2: Mother, we are your children. All we ask is to dine at Olive Garden, but you deny our request... When does your tyranny end?

Cinder: it ends when I'm dead in the ground next to that blithering bird of yours.

Knightfall kid 1: Liar! You said Baxter flew away!

Cinder: Yes, he flew...straight into a fireball.

Knightfall kid 1: You Wench!

Knightfall kid 2: Sister stay vigilant. We came here for Olive Garden, and we are leaving with Olive Garden... Grandmother.

Cinder: You called your grandmother?

Salem: Cinder, what's this I'm hearing about you deny the young royalties their request for Olive Garden?

Cinder: Royalties? Mother you have been gone for too long. They called you here because they're scoundrels, beasts from the snow...ungrateful seaguls.

Salem: Do you not remember the cries of bloody murder when I didn't let you feast upon Bennigans and Shoney's? You're still as treacherous as ever Cinder.

Knightfall Kid 1: Brother, we're watching the battle of the century.

Knightfall Kid 2: Grandmother can not lose!

Cinder: Mother, how soon you forget eating the same bowl of black-eyed peas for a month straight. Your daughter does not forget.

Salem: I would never...

Cinder: Oh but you did, and now you come into my home to give ME orders?

Salem: Respect your elders Cinder!

Cinder: Surrender now or the only Olive Garden you'll be having is the microwavable pasta in the nursing home.

Salem: !

Cinder: You're washed.

Salem: ...I'm sorry, kids.

Knightfall kid 1: What in the brothers name just happened?

Knightfall kid 2: Grandmother has been...defeated?

Cinder looks at her kids

Cinder: Any other contingencies? Tricks? Schemes? Miracles from the brothers themselves?

Knightfall kid 1: Brother, do something!

Knightfall kid 2: ...

Cinder: Alright then...go, microwave the spaghetti and leave me with my sweet husband.

Closes the door on them as giggling could be heard behind the door.

[rattlingmycage]

Hescrates

I figure it's about time I actually centralize the scattered pieces of my BG3 OC's bio in one place.

Species: Tiefling Gender: Agender (they/he) Background: Noble Class: Fighter. Previously Bard

Occupation

Heir to a noble lineage subservient only to royalty. The family makes their business in handling the martial affairs of the Crown, and are generally feared by aristocrats and peasants alike. Occasional personal security aide to one of the princes. He's charismatic, Epicurean, friendly, and a pain in the ass for Hescrates because he drags them to his various social excursions with foreign dignitaries.

Alignment

Neutral evil. Generally speaking, they're rather vicious. Cut you for staring at them funny vicious. It's what keeps the hired mercenaries in line, and ensures no rivals get any misguided ideas.

They chill out more in the game timeline, since they don't have an army at their disposal and the game companions are all they have to work with. It's an intentional strategic choice, but also the first time they relax the tyrant facade in about a decade.

Philosophy Strike first, ask later. Loyalty is a commodity, trust is a mistake, and power is the only safety. Personal survival above all. I made this OC because I wanted a more precarious relationship arc with Astarion, so I chose the personality traits according to that. They're things that Astarion can relate to, but also a source of constant conflict with him.

Curse Hescrates made a pact with a witch long ago. The stitch scarring on their lips sews back together if they ever try to sing, and the wound reopens without warning at times. In exchange they're very strong and can tank most damage with ease. (I basically made a fucked up Ariel. Instead of legs she just gets hella jacked. And becomes dollar store Deadpool. lol)

I have a zine that goes into detailed backstory (too much, if you ask me), several au versions of them of varying nastiness, and I ship them with Astarion in an enemies > begrudging allies > lovers > separated > ??? something fucked up here > bitter rivals way.

[katieroo28]

this doesn’t get mentioned enough either because it’s very blink and you’ll miss it but we do know goncharov’s first name.

throughout the film he’s only called by his last name because his first is “complicated.” we, the audience, think that’s just a rare cheeky line from an otherwise sullen, stoic character. it’s poking fun a bit at how he’s trying to keep a low profile AND how his first name might be difficult for his italian acquaintances to pronounce.

but briefly we’re shown some papers in his study addressed to vsevolod and in katya’s final chance for him to turn back and maybe change himself, she doesn’t call him goncharov like she usually does. it’s hard to catch but she whispers “sevochka” which is, you guessed it, a diminutive for vsevolod.

now this name is actually an interesting choice from scorsese. he could have just been picking a much more rare and interesting sounding russian first name BUT if he did this to be clever (which i believe to be the case), there’s quite a bit to unpack here.

vsevolod is an ANCIENT russian first name that directly translates to “ruler of everything.” it’s believed to maybe be the origin of the more modern name vladimir and was frequently used by royalty but is now considered very uncommon, even in russia.

this whole film is about goncharov’s misguided quest for power and structure and identity so him being given a prophetic name like vsevolod is certainly interesting and almost tragic. he’s quite literally destined for power but it keeps eluding him because of both his own flaws and the way others seem to not see him fully and clearly. he’s destined for greatness but he’s also turning away from it by forgoing his given name in favor of the simpler surname he possesses, goncharov.

it’s almost a wolf in sheep’s clothing kind of deal. he himself doesn’t always seem so sure in his fate either. he doesn’t realize until the very end when andrey comes for him but by that point it’s already too late. he accepts this, though. it’s beautiful the way he lets death come for him. it’s not just because its andrey of all people but because he’s finally making a choice. he’s not dying as some great and powerful leader like he always thought he would or even as sevochka the loving husband: he’s dying as simply goncharov, the man who wanted so much and fought so hard to be ruler and master over everything in his life but realized too late that none of it was worth it in the end.

[karahalloway]

(Less Than) Noble Intentions: Chapter 17 - News Flash

Fandom: TRR

Pairing: Drake Walker x F!OC (Harper Gale)

Series Summary: The social season may be over, but Harper Gale’s problems are just beginning. With everyone at court a potential suspect, can she and Drake survive the engagement tour and get to the bottom of the plot against her and clear her name? An AU take of TRR2 featuring my OTP - Harper & Drake.

Masterlist: (Less Than) Noble Intentions

Chapter Summary: Harper and the Beaumonts get on a plane to Italy… but they are not riding solo

Word Count: 4,500

Rating/Warnings: M (using the Lord's name in vain, shocking revelations, possible ulterior motives)

Chapter theme song:

A/N1: And… we’re back! I know this is a bit delayed, thanks to my new Heaven’s Secret distraction, but I am hoping to refocus myself on this continuously neglected series again for the next few weeks/months so we can make some headway towards wrapping it up. Also, I know we all miss him, and he hasn’t had as much page time as we all (Harper included!) probably want, but I promise that after this chapter there will be a lot more Drake again 🥃

A/N2: Astute readers will probably notice that there is nary a train in sight (in this chapter, or any future ones). This is deliberate because (i) I never understood why PB went in that direction in canon (is a travelling boutique really that important?!), and (ii) trains don’t make sense from a security point of view anyway (apparently the UK’s Royalty and Specialist Protection — which provides close protection to the royal family — used to hate it when Elizabeth II travelled by train, because it was always a massive headache to ensure her safety as trains travel on a fixed route and schedule, with no opportunities for diversion or evasion of things go to pot). So… planes it is ✈️

A/N3: Finally, another special shoutout to @thegreentwin​ for giving me the inspiration to have a crack at creating the tabloid cover page featured in this chapter. If you have not read The Rebel Prince, please do so! It is cute, funny, insightful and the gossip magazine covers that accompany several of the chapters are something else!

Chapter 17 - News Flash

"I thought we're going to Italy..." I remark the next morning as we pull to a stop on the tarmac of a secluded private airfield.

"We are," confirms Bertrand, jamming a fedora onto his head to protect against the ferocity of the morning sun... and hide the brutal sunburn he managed to acquire as a result of spending the entirety of yesterday's Festival outdoors without any SPF protection.

"Then what's with the literal mountain of luggage?" I ask as we step out of our customary limo.

Bertrand fixes me with a red-faced glare over the roof of the vehicle. "Have you learnt nothing from the social season?"

I throw him a deadpan look. "You mean apart from the fact that you insist on packing everything, including the kitchen sink?"

Maxwell's snort drifts up from the backseat.

The elder Beaumont is not impressed with my clapback. "The engagement tour will be one high-profile event after the other, which means that we will have neither the time nor the opportunity to engage in slap-dash shopping sprees. Not only would such proletarian behaviour be rude, but it would be misguided as well, given that we need to ensure that for each event we abide not just by the formal dress code indicated on the invitation, but also that we do not clash with, or indeed overshadow the hosts — or the King and future Queen, for that matter! — in terms of style and colour, all while being thoughtful in ensuring that we incorporate elements from both local and Cordonian designers to visually showcase the strength of the bonds that knit our respective nations together. On top of all that, it is imperative that we—"

"How the heck is anyone expected to pull all that off?" I blurt in disbelief.

"Through careful planning and coordination," Bertrand declares as he comes to join Maxwell and me on the other side of the limo. "Which is why I have taken the liberty of pre-selecting each outfit for each event of the tour, in consultation with the Palace's Master of the Robes."

My mouth drops. "You... Put a wardrobe together? For me?"

"Yes," comes the diffident affirmation. "Given that all eyes — not just those of our fellow Cordonians, but of our host nations' — will be on us constantly, we cannot afford any fashion faux pas."

I stare at my former sponsor mutely, mouth opening and closing like a dumbfounded goldfish.

Maxwell attempts to diffuse my slap-faced reaction with a jovial grin. "Bertrand used to lay my clothes out for me all the time when we were younger. I know he doesn't look it, but he has excellent—"

I shove an accusatory finger out. "He tried to foist me into a Medieval cosplay dress! That is the exact opposite of excellent taste!"

The elder Beaumont bristles. "It was hardly—"

"And how the hell did you afford all of this anyway?" I interject, throwing my arm out towards the carefully stacked Eiffel Tower of suitcases. "Because last time I checked, you were flat broke!"

Bertrand's already ruddy complexion darkens further. "There is no need for you to concern yourself with—"

"How?!"

After the way Maxwell had tried to sell covert photos and Christian and me from New York to the press in a bid to make bank, I am not willing to take any kind of half-baked deflection when it comes to the Beaumonts and money. I've been used one too many times for someone else's gain, so my trust is virtually non-existent at this point.

Bertrand swallows thickly as he averts his eyes. "I... I may have made recourse to an old sewing machine I found in the attic..."

My eyes just about pop out of my head. "You what?!"

I'd expected any one of six million other explanations — he'd sold the vineyard... remortgaged Ramsford... auctioned off every last chair and curtain from the manor... Even offered his soul to the literal Devil...

But using a sewing machine...? To make actual clothes...?

I had obviously caught the sun yesterday as well, and am now suffering from heat stroke...

"Bertrand has always been interested in fashion," explains Maxwell with a perfectly straight face. "He even wanted to enroll at the world-renowned Istituto Marangoni International in Milan to study Fashion Design. But then our father took unexpectedly ill, and—"

"Yes, yes..." interjects Bertrand with an embarrassed wave of his hand. "No need to revisit broken dreams and unfulfilled promises. The point is that I made the best use of what meagre funds and resources we had at our disposal to curate a serviceable selection of outfits for each of us. With a little help from Maxwell, of course."

"I was the mannequin," he declares proudly. "I admit, I got poked a few times in the line of duty, but it was worth it. Bertrand did a stellar job – you're going to love what he made for you."

"I... I don't know what to say..." I admit faintly.

And here I'd been thinking that Bertrand's closet Harry Potter obsession had been a big reveal...

"Yes... Well..." Bertrand clears his throat uncomfortably. "We each have our unique talents. Speaking of... I trust you have been practicing your Italian?"

I frown. "My what?"

"You were supposed to give her lessons!" cries Bertrand, smacking his brother over the back of the head.

Maxwell's retro '60s sunglasses fly off his face. "My Prada’s...!"

"What about French?" Bertrand demands, rounding on me with all the intensity of a furious tomato on the verge of exploding.

"Allard and Schweitzer have been teaching—"

"Some initiative at last!" exclaims Bertrand, throwing his hands up in the air in deliverance. "Good — you'll have some semblance of a basis, then. However, while both languages share a common root — that being Latin — and a border, as a result of roughly fifteen centuries of historical and linguistic divergence, Italian has become markedly different from its Gallic cousin, so we will have our work cut out in making you even semi-proficient by the time we land in Rome. So, I hope you brought pen and paper with you."

My shoulders slump as I watch Bertrand stride off towards the waiting plane. "Great..."

There goes the next hour and a half of my life...

"I knew I had forgotten something..." admits Maxwell, rubbing the back of his head as he retrieves his sunglasses from the tarmac. "But I thought it was just my second favourite pair of boxers."

"It's fine..." I assure wearily him as I begin my own trudge towards the jet. "It wouldn't be a true Beaumont travel experience without a droning Bertrand lecture..."

Though I guess it could be worse. I could be stuck on the royal jet with Christian and Madeleine. Which — after what happened yesterday — would be like staging an aristocratic rendition of Squid Game... 20,000 feet in the air. So, on that basis, I'll willingly subject myself to Bertrand's monologuing any day of the week, if it means I can—

"And there she is..." remarks a familiar, though very much unexpected voice as I step onto the plane. "The woman of the hour."

Jerking my head to the right, my eyes land on Olivia, lounging on one of the cream-coloured leather seats, her killer spike stiletto boots dangling over the armrest as she casually peruses a broadsheet.

"What are you doing here?" I ask in disbelief.

Olivia lowers the paper to meet my eye with a quirked brow. "You mean, on my own aircraft?"

I cast a glance in Bertrand's direction as I make my way down the gangway. "Guess your meagre funds and resources didn't extend to sourcing jet fuel?"

Bertrand coughs evasively as he stores his briefcase in the overhead locker. "Since we are all heading in the same direction anyway, Lady Oliva was kind enough to—"

"Shut it, Beaumont," Olivia snaps. "I am doing this as a personal favour, not an act of charity. As Lord knows that I wouldn't normally tolerate sharing recycled air with this many people in a confined space. So, if you want to stay on this plane, you will save the histrionics for the Italian President."

Bertrand promptly clamps his mouth shut to sink into his seat without another word.

"Wow..." I say, settling in across from Olivia. "He must've been really desperate to come to you for help... No offence."

"None taken," she replies with a breezy shrug as she flips the broadsheet closed and nods to the cabin attendant. "Because the request didn't come from the Beaumonts."

My head snaps up in surprise. "Then who?"

She regards me for a long moment, as if debating whether to tell me. Finally, she lets out a resigned exhale. "Drake."

My jaw hits the floor. "What!"

Olivia scrunches her mouth up ruefully. "He twisted my arm into agreeing to look out for you while he's off playing desert soldier."

I stare at her. "How in the world did he—?"

Maxwell thrusts his head 'round the back of Olivia's seat. "Drake's playing video games! Instead of coming to Italy?”

The Duchess of Lythikos shoves the intruding face away with the palm of her hand. "No, you imbecile! Drake's gone to Dubai." Glancing at me she adds, "I presume they know?"

"They do now," I concede with a sigh.

Thanks to the slew of quick-fire developments at yesterday's Festival, followed by the rabid packing to get ourselves ready for the international leg of the tour, I haven't had a chance to bring the Beaumonts up to speed with everything that's happened in the past twenty-four hours.

But they're bound to find out about Drake's last-minute side-trip at some point, so this is as good a time as any to level with them.

Maxwell’s mouth drops with an aghast look. "But I didn't hit him that hard!"

Olivia quirks a brow at me.

"Long story, don't ask," I tell her wearily. Glancing up at Maxwell, I add, "He's gone after Tariq. Bastien found him hiding out on some rich cousin's yacht out in the bay."

"Oh." Maxwell scratches his head abashedly. "That makes more sense..."

"How do you put up with these two?" asks Olivia with a shake of her head as Maxwell sinks back into his seat.

I give her a shrug. "They have a weird way of growing on you..."

"Like some deadly fungus..." she mutters with a roll of her eyes.

"I heard that!" objects Maxwell from behind her.

"Well, maybe you shouldn't eavesdrop, then!" she throws over her shoulder snidely. Turning back to me, she adds, "And speaking of funguses, you can remind your boyfriend when he gets back that you both owe me. Big time."

My gaze darts to hers. "I— We're not—"

"Thank you for confirming it," she interjects with a sly smile. "But also, I'm not an idiot. It's obvious to anyone with a set of eyes that the fool is in love with you... and you with him. It's all quite disgusting, really..."

I feel my cheeks redden. "So, why help us, then?"

She heaves a low breath. "Because you stuck your neck out for me when you didn't have to. Despite everything I did to try and undermine you during the season. And because we have a common enemy."

She tosses the broadsheet that she'd been reading over to me.

Catching the copy of the Cordonia Sun before it has a chance to slide off the table between us, I glance down...

...and my heart sinks as I take in the unflattering picture of myself seemingly facing off against Madeleine under the sensationalist headline.

I shove the paper angrily away. "Hey. I didn't start it..."

"And yet you somehow always manage to find yourself in the middle of it, don't you?" she counters with an arched brow as the jet revs its engines for take-off. "The half-nude pictures... The Beaumonts' financial troubles... The speculations about the real reason Christian gave you a duchy... I mean, even the Duchess of Sussex would have a hard time competing with you when it comes to front-page scandals."

"And you think Madeleine is behind it all?" I ask tightly, indicating the tabloid.

"She would certainly have a lot to gain from waging a targeted media campaign against you," Olivia affirms. "She isn't married to Christian yet, and after what happened with Leo, she no doubt feels threatened by your continued presence at court. So, discrediting your integrity in the eyes of the Council would help her ensure that Christian can never formally pick you over her to become Queen."

"Because she doesn't know I turned him down..." I grumble dejectedly as the plane pulls into the air.

"And certainly would not believe you if you told her, either," she adds. "But she is not the only one with something to lose."

I sit up straighter. "You mean there are other suspects?"

"Yes," she nods. "Namely Godfrey and the Queen Mother."

Bertrand erupts from his seat at the mention of the two names. "That is an outrageous accusation! The Queen Mother would never—!"

"Madeleine is her niece," counters Olivia flatly. "Given that she has no children of her own, she practically treats that golden-haired harpy as if she is her heir. And since she was the one who brokered the original marriage contract between Leo and Madeleine, she clearly doesn't want all that work going to waste."

I frown. "But if everything was in place already, why have a social season at all? Why not just sub out Leo's name for Christian's in the contract?"

"To give Christian the illusion of choice."

My jaw drops. "You're not serious..."

"It would have been in poor taste to simply swap one prince out for another," Olivia advises. "Leo hadn't died... merely abdicated. But that decision nevertheless rocked the kingdom to its core."

"It's true," supplies Maxwell, leaning around with a mouth full of jelly worms. "The headlines were vicious."

"So..." I muse with a frown. "The Palace needed a distraction?"

"Yes," Oliva affirms seriously. "To draw attention away from Constantine's failing health."

"Wait," I cut in. "Constantine is dying?"

Olivia nods. "Prostate cancer. By all estimates, he has less than a year to live."

"Oh, my God..." I gasp, hand flying to my mouth. "No wonder Christian didn't want to talk about it..."

"The Palace is under strict instructions to keep the whole thing tightly under wraps..." she explains. "At least until after the coronation and wedding are both out of the way. They don't want the news to overshadow the first few critical months of Christian's rule."

"So, how did you find out?" I query.

She cuts her eyes over at me. "Like I said at the Masquerade Ball... Christian and I share a special connection. There are no secrets between us. Also – look at who you're talking to. I have files on each of the suitors from the social season. You seriously think I wouldn't know about something as vital to the functioning of the kingdom as the state of the King Father's health?"

"I guess not..." I concede, still trying to process this bombshell. "But how does giving Christian an illusion of a choice during the social season help cover up Constantine's cancer?"

"In the wake of Leo's abdication, support for the Rys family fell to an all-time low. The press started to question Constantine's policies, and the direction that the kingdom has been heading over the past few decades, implying that the country's current trajectory was unsustainable... and uncorrectable."

"I remember reading something about that on the flight from New York..." I recall. "There were suggestions that Leo abdicated because he didn't believe in the future of the monarchy."

"Which wasn't the case at all," she cautions. "But the Palace was worried that such intense media scrutiny would unearth evidence of Constantine's ill health... which would in turn intensify the calls from the republican factions of the country to abolish the system of hereditary rule completely. So, in a desperate bid to reunite the people behind a common cause, and shore up support for the monarchy, the Palace decided run the season again."

"But why?" I ask, still not seeing the connection.

"To charm the country with the fairytale of a royal romance," denotes Olivia sourly. "Because people apparently go ga-ga for that shite..."

Bertrand narrowly avoids choking in his seat across the aisle. "That is a crude and absolutely salacious interpretation of—!"

I whirl across the aisle. "Wait. You knew about this?"

Bertrand folds his arms across his chest. "I am a serving member of the Council. Of course I knew about the Palace's decision to run the social season again. But to suggest that it was all done simply for the sake of—"

"God, you're thick..." interjects Olivia.

Bertrand blanches. "I beg your pardon?!"

"You've been at court long enough to know that the truth is never the whole truth — there is always some hidden purpose or ulterior motive."

"But to suggest that—"

"The Palace needed a believable story — one that could capture the public's imagination — while still serving the needs of the kingdom," Olivia states. "A story of duty and love."

"Between Christian and Madeleine?" I ask sceptically. "But they don't even like each other."

"So?" scoffs Olivia. "The aim was to sell the lie to the populace. Everything else is inconsequential. And can be made to fit the narrative."

"But if you knew all this," I counter, "why did you join the competition?"

"I joined exactly because I knew the season was a sham," she replies heatedly. "To give Christian a genuine choice... not just the one that everyone else was determined to steer him towards."

"Because you love him..."

Olivia nods tightly. "Yes. And I knew it was a long shot. But even if he wouldn't end up being able to choose me — Regina would've made sure to stack the Council votes in her favour — at least I could be there to support him... as a friend."

I feel my heart go out to her, knowing from personal experience how difficult it is to be in a situation where you desperately want to be with someone, but can't because of circumstances that are outside of your control.

"But then, of course..." adds Olivia, once again with her customary breeziness, "you show up from out of nowhere with your hideous accent and relatable backstory—"

"Hey!"

"—and the whole country — Christian included — loses their collective minds. With the result that Regina's plan to make her niece Queen begins to unravel at the seams."

"Which is why she decided to set me up..." I surmise heavily as the jet levels off.

It's been fairly obvious from the start that I'm not Regina's favourite person... But the knowledge that she'd go to such lengths to publicly blacklist me? That's just inexcusable.

"You have no proof of that!" objects Bertrand, butting in again.

"Not directly, no," Olivia admits. "But all the evidence we have to date fits. The money Tariq received for his involvement came from a numbered account located in Switzerland. The blackmail letters distributed at the Coronation Ball were printed on Palace stationery. And as far as motives go, the Queen Mother would have more reason than most to influence the outcome of the social season."

"I cannot believe I am hearing this...!" decries Bertrand with a shake of his head. "The implications alone would be—"

"Ruinous to the Rys family," confirms Olivia. "I am aware. Which is why we must tread carefully in order to avoid tarring Christian with any of this. The monarchy would not survive the ensuing scandal."

"What about this other guy?" I ask. "Godfrey? How does he fit into this?"

Olivia throws her hands up. "Lord, you're more clueless than him!"

"Excuse me for not knowing every single Cordonian nobleman by name," I snark back. "I've only been a duchess for a day..."

"I'll send you my files," Olivia huffs wearily. "All two hundred of them."

My eyes widen. "There's two hundred—?"

"There's more, but those are the important ones," she replies with a dismissive wave of her hand. "And if you want to be an effective duchess, I suggest you study up because you need to have the entire contents of those dossiers memorised and ready to deploy in any given conversation."

"Sweet Jesus..." I gasp faintly, making recourse to Drake's favourite invective, as it certainly fit the magnitude of the task Olivia has just dumped on me.

"You didn't grow up in this world, so you have a lot of catching up to do," Olivia shrugs unabashedly.

"Yeah, I'm very much aware of that..." I concede dryly, rubbing my temples. "So, who is this Godfrey?"

"The Third Earl of Huntford, and Duke jure uxoris of Krona."

My brows furrow in recollection. "Krona... Does that mean he's—?"

"He's Madeleine's dad," supplies Maxwell, popping his head into the aisle again, this time in the company of a CapriSun juice pouch.

My eyes widen. "The man at the garden party! But what does he have against me? I've never even met him!"

"The fact that you are still here..." offers Olivia blandly. "Competing against his daughter for the attentions of the King."

"It's not exactly a competition," I scoff. "I'm not trying to steal him away from her."

"Except that isn't how the press is portraying it," counters Olivia pointedly, tapping the front page of the Sun.

I open my mouth again, but quickly shut it, realising that Olivia is right. As regardless of my personal reasons for being back at court — as the Royal Consort, no less! — the view from the outside presents very differently. And given that Madeleine herself clearly feels threatened by my continued presence at Christian's side, it's no small jump to imagine that her father — who, based on what I saw at the garden party a few days ago, is just as power-hungry and image-conscious as his daughter — would also feel the same.

"Crap..." I huff, falling back into my seat dejectedly.

"Not the most elegant of phrasing," muses Olivia. "But certainly succinct."

"What am I going to do?" I ask morosely, starting up at the cabin's air vents.

"Help me gather as much proof as we can during the course of the tour," Olivia instructs. "So we can narrow down our suspect list... or indict all three of them. In either case, we will be more effective if we work together."

"That plan is akin to sedition!" cries Bertrand, clearly aghast by the very suggestion. "Bordering on treason! All of us are in enough hot water already without—"

"Which is why it is imperative that no word of anything that we have just discussed leaves this aircraft," declares Olivia with a steely look. "Or I will personally hunt you down and turn your face inside out."

I gulp at the gruesomeness of that particular image. "What... What about the staff? Can you trust them?"

"They are all Lythikosians," Olivia states. "Who have sworn blood-oaths to House Nevrakis. They would never dare betray me."

"Good to know..." I admit, watching the cabin attendant re-appeared with a selection of drinks, and wondering if underneath her uniform she is as armed to the teeth as Olivia supposedly is.

"I presume the same goes for your beefcakes?" asks Olivia, nodding her chin towards the back where Allard and Schweitzer have taken up residence for the duration of the flight.

"Yes," I confirm. "I trust them with my life."

She dips her head in approval. "Good. So, as first order of business, I suggest—"

"Can we tell Hana?" interjects Maxwell, bobbing up from behind Olivia again. "She's helping us, too!"

Olivia heaves a breath. "Yes, fine. But—"

I hold up a hand. "And Drake will probably want t—"

"Yes, fine!" she snaps irately. "Anyone else? Your maternal grandmother, perhaps?"

I bite my bottom lip as I peek up at her. "Do we tell Christian?"

Olivia holds my gaze for a long moment. "No. Not until we have concrete proof. One way or another. He has enough crises to manage right now without lumbering him with a major constitutional one as well."

I nod in understanding. The mere suggestion that his godmother and future father-in-law have been conspiring to put Madeleine on the throne (potentially with his fiancée's own buy-in!) would be soul-destroying. Which is why we need to find that smoking gun — ideally several — before we present our accusations.

"Not sure if it will be of any help at all," I say, "but Ana de Luca managed dig up some information on the freelance photographer Tariq was working with on the day of the Jamboree."

"Did you bribe her with another exclusive?" chaffs Olivia dryly.

"We'll need someone to help us set the record straight," I affirm. My shoulders slump suddenly. "But I gave the flash-drive to Drake."

"Which he gave to me," smirks Olivia, pulling the device from the pocket of her jacket.

I gape at the piece of plastic in her hand. "Drake really trusts you, huh?"

"More than most," she shrugs coyly, flipping the drive over to me.

I catch it with both hands. "We should review whatever is on here. Who knows? Maybe the photographer is part of the press corps covering the tour."

"I have my laptop with me," Maxwell offers. "I was going to use it to mix some tunes, but—"

"You'll only get one chance to unravel a high-stakes aristo racket!" I quip, dangling the drive between my fingers.

"God, your incessant American optimism is stomach-turning..." Olivia groans. "And you've clearly spent too much time with Walker."

"Hey," I hit back. "This is the best lead we've gotten yet. We shouldn't discount it. This photographer could be key to linking Regina and/or Godfrey to the plot to influence the outcome of the social season."

"Assuming you can find them..." counters Olivia. "And get them to talk."

I meet her eye with a level look. "Good thing that's your area of expertise, isn't it, Duchess?"

The corner of her mouth lifts craftily.

"But what about Harper's Italian!" disparages Bertrand. "We'll be landing in less than an hour, and she still doesn't know the proper way to greet the President in his native tongue without insulting him!"

I swallow a groan. "Do I really need t—?"

"Being able to carry a conversation with the Head of State in Italian will go a long way in demonstrating to both the public and the press that you are serious about your new role as Duchess of Valtoria," he advises frankly. "And will score you some much-needed diplomatic points with our hosts as well."

"Guess we have our work cut out for us, then," I accede with a sigh. "Any chance for some coffee?"

"Turkish, Irish, or Sicilian?" asks Olivia.

"Which is closest to a latte?"

"Probably the Sicilian," she advises. "If you make it into a granita di caffe."

"I'm feeling Italian already!" I gibe in an attempt to lighten the mood a bit.

Bertrand groans loudly from his seat. "Oh, Dio..."

The story continues in Chapter 18 - Diplomatica

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(Less Than) Noble Intentions only (let me know if you want to be added!)

@thetruthisthatiloveyou @anakjaybon-blog

[youremyheaven]

What are the list of archetypes you see Punarvasu/Jupiter women embody? I know you mentioned the courtesan, the mistress, the dream girl/trophy wife, and also marrying royalty. What is it about these women that makes men see them as the ideal and are even willing to risk their marriage/livelihood for them? I’m a Punarvasu Moon. I wish I could completely analyze my Vedic birth chart, but I’m not good at Vedic astrology yet. I’m actually learning a lot from your posts.

about archetypes; look out for my future posts💛

i had already mentioned in my posts about Cancer being the most feminine sign. Be it tropical or vedic, Cancer is the height of femininity.

A tropical Cancer can in vedic be Ardra, Punarvasu or Pushya

3 nakshatras fall into Cancer rashi;

Punarvasu 20 degree gemini to 3 degree cancer

Pushya 3-16 degree cancer

Ashlesha- 16-29 degree cancer

In sidereal, Ardra falls entirely within the Gemini constellation and Ashlesha is tropically entirely Leo. therefore the only nakshatras that tropically and vedically remain in Cancer are Punarvasu & Pushya

I exclude both Ardra & Ashlesha nakshatras when I speak about Cancerian femininity because imo they're not truly representative of it (i'll make a future post regarding it)

but in order to understand what makes these women so desirable to men, we must first understand "desirability" itself. sexual polarity is what creates desire and being innately yin, these women attract yang and encourage men to be more yang. ive often seen discussions about femininity online (be it soft girls, divine feminines or trad wives) and there seems to be a certain emphasis on appearing gentle and submissive but this is slightly misguided.

Cancerian women embody true femininity because they are kind, and naturally receptive (yin) they seek to absorb yang energy because they have none of it within themselves. This pull (some call it neediness) means seeking out that active yang energy, this makes men eager to serve them and do things for them. Yang is an active force and it NEEDS to feel useful. Cancer is a passive sign and it needs to draw upon external yang energy. HOWEVER this hardly means they're doormats or meek and "submissive" (the way this word is commonly understood), it takes a great deal of wisdom to understand the kind of power these women possess. they are "steel magnolias."

a docile, submissive girl will not enthral or magnetize anyone, Punarvasu & Pushya are ruled by Jupiter & Saturn, these are masculine planets and in my understanding these women are emotionally very masculine and in order to compensate for how masculine/androgynous they feel internally, they project a very hyperfeminine manner & conduct. they make more of an effort to "appear feminine" in dressing, style, manners than most other women because internally they don't feel feminine enough. thats why their femininity is so exaggerated, its almost like they're putting on a performance (im NOT calling them fake)

what this means is that they are emotionally cultivated and well developed and not doormats. they project gentleness and a certain vulnerability but they are resilient & strong. this creates intrigue and makes them enthralling to men. someone who seems needy but does not need you at all? it makes the guys go weak in their knees

Cancer is the Mother archetype. how are mothers? they are nurturing, gentle, loving and stern without being harsh (ideally) you don't want to hurt mom, because she's THE woman in your life (i know that everyone has a different dynamic with their mom but im speaking in the broadest possible terms)

Yang energy is the energy of giving and both Punarvasu & Pushya women are known for marrying well. their naturally receptive energy enables them to connect to men who want to give to them endlessly; be it royal titles, wealth, status or their lives 👀🤭

[holding-monsters-hands]

Greetings again author,

You may be my favorite tf2 writing blog. take care if yourself 👀.

May I have headcannons of Tf2 mercs with a sick S/O. (I need some comfort as I am sick myself) How would they help, or comfort them.

(You can choose which characters, as I don't know if there is a character limit.)

Take you time.

Your sincerely,

-Ghost anon 💀

AWE?? YOU ARE SO SWEET <3

also I typically do 3 for a character limit unless it’s like- goosebumps where I just write one point for each character instead of 4 for one character, so that rule will apply here!

warnings: emetophobia

Mercs with a sick s/o

Scout is, so stupid yet so full of concern- he will try to apply the things his mom did for him whenever he got sick as a kid and just do the same for you! getting you soup, ginger ale and crackers, and getting you a mini trashcan for you to throw up in lmfao

Sniper does not know a single thing about taking care of a sick person but he tries, he’ll rub your back when you need to throw up, holding your hair back if it’s particularly long- But he also gets you water, tea, solid foods that’ll hopefully stay down, and of course tons of snuggles.. even if that results in HIM getting sick.

Engineer will bury you in all sorts of warm and cozy quilts, having you lay in bed while he gets you hot/cold towels for your head, constantly checks your temperature, feeds you soup, makes sure you’re extra hydrated, and when gives you little back/shoulder rubs for your sore, bed bound body!

Medic could simply just use the medigun on you and have you instantly back to your peak health.. but, that wouldn’t be as cute, now would it? He takes a lot of pride in caring for you and your health, so you’ll be treated like royalty the whole time! being carried every where, being waited on hand-and-foot.. everything you could ever ask! the only downside is that you’ll have to take some pretty gross medicine.

Heavy has repeatedly had to help take care of his younger sisters whenever they were sick, so with all that practice and knowledge- you’re in great hands! he’s no doctor, but he has a few tips and tricks that help you get better in no time.

Demo is so doting.. like you will always have his full attention, he just gets worried sick about you- constantly by your side checking in on you, seeing if there’s any progress on your health, annoying medic into making sure there isn’t something seriously wrong, shoot- there’s been a few nights where he won’t sleep because he’s so worried over you!

Soldier can hardly take care of HIMSELF but he certainly gives you his all, and he refuses to let you lift a finger! he insists he can take care of it, but medic might have to offer his help/services so there’s no risk of your health getting worse just because soldier is a tad bit misguided.. but hey! you’ll get plenty of solly snuggles!

Spy will make you his special blend of tea: with whatever flavor of tea you want, a tiny slice of lemon and a few spices that help clear your airways and get rid of any nausea, it really does work like a charm!

Pyro is.. very sweet, but not very good at taking care of sick people.

[sakkiichi]

MATCHUP FOR MY DEAR @yourangel137

Suzy, love, I really do hope you like this <3 thank you so much for trusting me with your info, it really helped me determine your best match 🌸

I took into account your personality traits, your preferences and your hobbies, once again I hope I managed to write this according to your expectations.

your genshin impact match is the embodiment of both the sun and the moon: bright and welcoming, yet with a depth of magnetism and mystery if you look just beyond the surface. Although carefree and extremely charming at first glance, don’t let his allure misguide you: he is extremely caring and protective, going to any lengths needed if he so must just to keep you safe. he is definitely the kind to provide conversations for hours, his variety of topics never boring, as if casting a spell over you, you could listen to him endlessly. but because duality clings to him in flames and shadows, he is a dedicated listener as well, refusing to drop the topic until you’re done with all that troubles you.

well, you might have already guessed who’s starring in today’s performance, no? However, let us rise the curtains and meet…

✧ LYNEY

Closed off and leaning on the shyer side are no setbacks at all to Fontaine’s famed magician. Lyney is very curious about you, and all the beautiful secrets hiding behind quiet words and that bashful smile of yours.

Adept in the art of performing, he is also a pro at making you feel comfortable around him; be it his playful yet sincere smiles, the little magic tricks he performs for you or just the enigmatic warmth he radiates, you feel safe around Lyney.

You mention you’re family-oriented and love animals. Lyney is someone who cherishes his family deeply, as proven by his devotion to Lynette and Freminet, he’d literally go to hell and back again for them, and for you. So seeing that same trait reflected in your character as well makes his heart beat in ways he didn’t believe possible before; this is definitely different from being under someone else’s protection… is this what they call love?

Getting hurt by someone else’s words shouldn’t be a problem if you’re dating Lyney. He reads people quite well, plus his speech and mannerisms are inherently enchanting; gentle with you in a playful and mischievous way that makes you feel like royalty (he’d be damned if he didn’t make it known how special you are to him).

Forgiving and giving others chances are qualities of yours that I believe would be beneficial to Fontaine’s beloved illusionist. His past is not exactly the most easy to stomach, and he certainly won’t come clean about it at first. But with the time and nurturing you give him, you both will figure things out together.

After all, that’s the love song written in cursive for you in the distant starlight…

—

Reflections of the universe seem to sift through your fingers as you comb through his hair.

The night is quiet, as if waiting with bated breath for the greatest show to start.

In his lover’s lap, a magician lays the riddles of his magic, unspoken spells coming alive with no wave of wand when he’s around you.

“Does this feel good, Lyney?” You softly utter, fireflies stilling on flowerbeds, spectators of the sweet tale unfolding.

Eyes of lumidouce blooms conceal behind snowy lashes, not in the impenetrable way of the rings of fire he set aflame when painful memories were unearthed, no; but in a serene manner, as if the magic he commands was born from your touch.

“Mm, ma chérie…” Your beloved hums, stardust dotting his fine visage. “It does… but I know a way to make it even better…”

“Oh?” You smile at him, your movements continuing, as your free hand is tenderly caught by his.

“Sing for me, angel.” He whispers, gaze now focused solely on you. Because now, and always, Lyney couldn’t care less about the audience, as long as you were standing there, starry eyed and smiling.

“But Lyney…” Heat spreads through your cheeks, akin to a flock of doves set free from inside a mage’s hat. “Are you sure…?” You tentatively venture, the rhythm of your heart picking pace, already dancing to the symphony to be sung.

“Completely, my rose.” Your boyfriend offers, reassuring you with a gentle squeeze to your hand.

“A-alright…” You hesitate for an instant, and then, the true magic begins. Honeyed notes fill the auditorium of you and him, butterflies and nightingales swaying to your waltz; pluie lotus and romaritime flowers seem to come alive under the veil of your melody, almost glowing in the dim starlit lake; even the moon has appeared to lend an ear, her shawl of misty clouds opening up to the view of this private stage.

This must be what true love feels like. Is the thought flashing through the magician’s mind, his body feeling weightless, nectarine warmth wrapping tenderly around him.

As your song continues, your vocal chords loosen, the passion that you sometimes conceal spreading its fiery wings, flying you both to the faraway stars.

Instants like this one, where your truest feelings become center stage… That’s the greatest show to your partner.

What else could he need, when he has the night and your angelic voice all to himself?

And what more could you want, when the lines of his face look so utterly at peace?

This is your own idyll, its gates open only by the incantation of his lips on yours.

—

Another reason that made me choose Lyney as your genshin match is because of his caring nature. The famous magician will not, under any circumstance, allow you to forget to take care of yourself. As seen when he interacts with his family, Lyney is naturally shielding towards them, their wellbeing a priority to him. And that, of course, applies to you too.

Be it because of large crowds, too much stimulation from the environment or any other reason, Lyney somehow always manages to appear just in time to hold your hand. If you need to, he’ll hug you tight, as you bury your head in the crook of his neck, his pyro vision offering a comforting warmth to fend the cool seeping into your bones.

Lyney thinks it’s absolutely adorable that you enjoy childish things: from pretty dresses to plushies, to cute accessories, rest assured he’ll either make them appear right before your very eyes or buy them for you (I mean, he earns enough as a performing magician, but even if that wasn’t the case, seeing you happy is worth more than any amount of mora).

Your hobbies quite align with Lyney’s lifestyle too. Crocheting is one of your passions, so I can definitely see him including the plushies you sew in magic tricks he performs for children. Their smiles as they hold the dolls you make in their little hands are truly adorable.

Alternatively, I can imagine you giving stuffed animals to some of Fontaine’s less favored children, our star magician smiling melancholy and fondly, completely in love with the kindness you radiate (that could be how you met/your first interaction, with him being absolutely whipped from the first moment).

As for qualities you seek in a significant other, well, he definitely fits plenty of them: he’s shorter than you (and he’d melt every time you kiss his forehead); he can be both mature and playful, he just won’t shut up (affectionate), but knows when to be serious and lend an ear too; he’ll keep you safe without a doubt, plus he’s familiar with the night life in the city; you’d have to chase him a little too, he may seem all smiles and sunshine, but let me tell you, there’s shadows to unfold as you get to know him more. Even so, he’ll open up to you and be honest, it just might take him a while.

As for the insecurities you harbor, Lyney will be sure to make them vanish with a snap of fingers: he’s a natural charmer, his compliments leaving you speechless in the best way every time. Oh, and yes, he definitely takes that chance to steal a kiss or two hehe (don’t blame him, he loves you too much).

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Other matches I considered: Kaedehara Kazuha, Childe.

✧ RUNNER UP: SHENHE

She, too, fits most of your preferences.

She is very protective. I’m telling you, all hell will break loose if anyone ever dares harm you or make you uncomfortable.

Shenhe is mysterious, not letting many people close to her. But the lucky ones who get to truly know her (that is, obviously, you) are rewarded with one of the gentlest souls ever.

You mention you’d find someone both childish and mature interesting. While not exactly childish, Shenhe is still learning about many things from the human world. Her cluelessness is quite adorable at times.

I believe too that your soothing nature and fondness for childish things pair very well with her more detached and closed off self.

In a modern au, I know Shenhe would undoubtedly be the type to win a huge teddy bear or any big plushie you’d like at a fair.

She is not familiar with the concept of music, so wouldn’t it be beautiful, for her to learn about it by listening to your voice? The way her eyes sparkle, dawn rays over frozen streams, is enough to mesmerize you.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Other matches I considered: Raiden Ei, Ganyu.

[indelicateink]

dreams, perversions, and desires continue on the Interview with the Vampire kink meme.

so many thanks to @vampire-dove for maintaining this anon kink meme for us.

sharing some of the prompts going on over there. to play: click on the form link on the left side of the page. please go add more. please fill prompts. have you anonymously wrecked your fav today?

Prompts [7/?]:

Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Gentle Sex, Tender Sex, Exploration, Warm and Fuzzy Feelings, Dominance, Bottoming

after over 70 years of topping and domming, louis is ready for someone else to take the reins when he starts over. finding his way back to being vulnerable doesn't come easy.

--

Armand/Daniel Molloy, Armand/Marius de Romanus, Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Intrigue, Courting Rituals, Alternate Universe - Royalty, Historical Fantasy, Power Imbalance, Sex Work, Fish out of Water

Courtesan Armand has broken with Duke Marius de Romanus over his recent infidelity (well. His recent marriage of convenience. Very inconvenient for Armand). He’s not taking him back this time. Definitely not.

Knowing Armand’s weakness for older men, Armand’s former patron and good friend Marquis Lestat de Lioncourt introduces him to a lowly but charming scholar, Daniel Molloy, for a summer diversion.

Lestat’s close gentleman friend Louis thinks this is a disaster: for all that he’s a courtesan, Armand is not great at casual.

--

Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Accidental Stimulation, Accidental Sex, Oops, Love/Hate, Bad Decisions, Regret, Simultaneous Orgasm, Chemistry, Huddling For Warmth, Naked Cuddling, Tight Spaces, There Was Only One Bed

Strangers Louis and Lestat are each surprised and pissed to discover there’s another vampire on board their trans-pacific voyage, and spend most of their time avoiding each other. When the ship has an emergency and goes down mercifully close to a deserted coastline, luckily Lestat is able to bring one of his coffins to shore, though it’s worse for wear.

The sun is coming up fast on their freezing spit of land, but Lestat is gentleman enough to share his shelter. Louis really, really wishes Lestat had brought a bigger coffin. Or dry clothes.

--

Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Consensual Non-Consent kink: biological imperative

someone casts a curse on the hated inhabitants of the rue royale townhome not knowing they're actually vampires, not some other kind of supernatural creatures. the spell misfires into a fuck-or-die delirium.

lestat and louis are two years into their post-claudia depression era when they suddenly have to set their grudges with each other aside when hit by a misguided curse

--

Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Period-Typical Racism. Forbidden Love, Segregation, Racism, Power Imbalance, Breaking Up & Making Up, Secret Relationship, Fear of Discovery, Closeted, Internalized Homophobia, Period-Typical Homophobia, Homophobic Language

Human AU — In 1963 New Orleans, Lestat and Louis are teachers at a desegregated elementary school where, despite his excellence, Louis is fighting to hold onto his job when more and more of his fellow Black teachers are losing their jobs to white teachers. He can’t afford to hand them any ammunition, which is why the heady adrenaline of his affair with fellow teacher Lestat de Lioncourt is NOT worth the risk—on too many levels to count.

Three times Louis broke it off with Lestat—for real this time—and one time Louis admitted this insecure devoted histrionic fool might be it for him.

--

Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Teasing, Pining

high school au. desperate for his attention, theater kid lestat grows increasingly obnoxious in his bids for pending valedictorian louis to notice him before they graduate.

he slept with louis's boyfriend (before they broke up), he backed his car into louis's, he embarrassed louis while he was giving a report in class to relieve the tension, he dedicated his performance of hamlet to him, he made sure louis received more flowers on valentine's than anyone else, and he had a very public whirlwind seduction of the salutatorian to make sure her grades were too derailed to compete with louis's. lestat honestly doesn't know what it's going to take.

--

Lestat de Lioncourt/Louis de Pointe du Lac Alternate Universe - Werewolf, Full Shift Werewolves, Werewolf Sex

lestat doesn’t reveal himself to louis as a vampire in the church—he reveals himself as a werewolf. he’s not looking to turn louis, but feeling freaked out about louis’s rejection of lestat and louis’s suicidal ideation, lestat has a strong need to claim louis in lestat’s werewolf form.

[literaticat]

i know a lot of writers lament about publishing nowadays, especially the promotion of yourself on social media. But are there things in contemporary publishing that you are glad changed and would NEVER want them to be 'like it used to be'?

Totally!

First of all, when I started as an agent, email querying and submitting was JUST coming into play as a normal thing, and there was pretty scant info about agents and whatnot online (no QueryTracker or anything like that) -- before around Y2k, authors had to, you know, type their queries, do research on agents in physical books, mail queries through the post -- and worse, agents had to print out full manuscripts and post THOSE to editors. Booo! So, a bigger barrier for entry to authors, a bigger pain in the ass for agents and editors, and all around, yuck.

Contracts -- when I started, most all contracts were still required to be multiple copies of wet ink signatures on paper -- the printing, the mailing, what an UNBELIEVABLE pain that was. (And while this was STARTING to change ten years ago or so, it didn't change across the board until the pandemic, honestly.)

Payments and statements -- when I started, no publisher or agency had direct deposit. They'd send us paper checks, and we'd in turn send paper checks to authors. All the hundreds and hundreds of pages of royalty statements came on paper, which we'd have to copy and send to authors, or scan into our own computers to email and file the paper somewhere. (I still have multiple large filing cabinets STUFFED with paper statements and contracts I'm afraid to get rid of!) -- This started to change maybe 10 years ago, as the largest publishers got electronic statements under control and some publishers and agencies got direct deposit, and then the pandemic happened, and now almost (ALMOST) everyone has both. This means people get their money more swiftly and safely, and I'm not swimming in piles of horrible paper statements come royalty time, THANK GOD.

Also, in my early days and before that, there was a LOT more open, toxic behavior tolerated. Straight up racism, misogyny, handsy men... you get the picture. Like, obvs there's still definitely some misguided statements that get made by publishers, micro-aggressions for sure exist in corporate workplaces, etc, but -- trust me when I say, back in the day, people were absolutely unafraid to say VILE things in totally matter-of-fact ways, like, just MACRO-AGGRESSIONS during business meetings and stuff, which I HOPE and believe they'd think twice about today or face repercussions for. There was also a huge drinking culture in publishing back in the day, which is far less normal today -- that can't have helped! So while, yes, I do miss the lavish parties and dinners we used to have, I definitely DON'T miss some of the stuff that came with that!

[themonotonysyndrome]

I was literally about to ask for your opinion too on what you think would happen if one of castins one night stands said something like that to celica.I personally thought she would start laughing and she‘s tearing up because she’s laughing so hard 😂 and when she pulls herself together she says „you‘re so embarrassing“and continues laughing (cherry on top if she‘s w friends like the queen or Reyes maybe and she’s like gossiping right in front of her still trying to hold their laughter “she really thinks she‘s something special“) the one night stand gets hella insecure and walks away. Now I realize how off I was because literally what you wrote IS celica she would 100% make them fail in life like that leaving her marks so they beg for forgiveness 😮‍💨🫶🏾

If Queen Ascendant Isolde is with Celica when Castin's ex confronts her, you have to be stupidly brazen to try something when your target is with royalty and THAT ROYALTY JUST HAPPEN TO BE HER BESTFRIEND. Stupid? Brazen? Check, check!

Celica wouldn't laugh without any restraint in public. Not even in this situation. She would just give some cryptic words and then wait until someone important would request her attention. She won't walk away until then or dismiss this ignorant woman.

Now, if Castin's ex was young, ignorant and harmless in her attempt to confront Celica, she would leave the premise with her life and reputation unscathed because all Celica would do is just scold her because her misguided infatuation would jeopardise the peace that they're trying to build.

Now, if a woman comes up to her with malicious intentions and an ambition to steal Castin away from Celica, all bets are off. She'll go scorched Earth so that in the end, that woman will be an example for any of Castin's past lovers.

I'm currently writing a fic about this right now. Got a new character that's gonna be my new punching bag~ Have already planned that some of Celica's friends will bear witness to a game that Celica will verse in.

I'll try my best to post it as soon as I can.

[cure-typhoon]

i apologize for the wording in that ask lol. using the lalondes as an example again but better hopefully,, kid rose is sent in place of kid roxy and the same with their guardian counterparts. so rose grows up in post apocalyptic fish land with jake, jane, and dirk, while roxy is raised by guardian rose and is friends with john, jade, and dave. you can do this with any player duo like the captors, vantas’s etc but only just them. ur just swapping them around pre and post scratch. ig the question is more what swap would u be most intrigued by :)?

OHH thank you! English is not my first language and i get confused easily! sorry :b

Let's see... I'm assuming they grow up in the alternate universe and didnt just swap places out of nowhere with all their memories and all. Sooo, i think first one would be Feferi and Meenah /The Condesce and Beforus Feferi

It's kinda hard to imagine how some characters would be in different circunstances, as the enviroment is one of the primary things that shapes a person. But I doubt The Condesce/Adult Meenah in Beforus would be the same tyrant she was on Alternia. Meenah has been shown to be cruel (with bullying Damara so extremely that Damara straight up killed her) but also as someone who cares about their friends, like when she starts crying to June about Aranea.

So I think a Condesce rulling Beforus WOULD definitly change the way it is. First I really doubt they would have the Cuddling system the way Beforus Feferi had it, as Meenah literally tried to shape her team to become stronger, in the worst way possible and she ended up failling, but at least that was her plan. So Beforus in the rule of The Condesce would probably start to become like a less hellish Alternia?

But also Meenah was shaped by Beforus Feferi and not wanting to be like her so maybe The Condesce wouldnt have a need to try to make everything harsher? I think she would just be like, Royalty who is worshippped like Gods. Maybe she pulls up fight tournaments from time to time to not get bored and to shape the Trolls to not be ''lame''. This place is probably ridden with lots of inequality, but so was OG Beforus so its not that much of a change.

Basically she would be an uninterested Ruler who is just enjoying the fruits of being basically a Goddess to her people

Feferi in the place of Meenah HMMM, okey I really doubt the condesce in beforus would try to murder her, so at least she has that (And not taking care of Gl'bgolyb). So for starters Feferi would have like 100% less pressure but I feel she would have a God Complex.

Like OG Feferi where she wanted to help people but was obviously misguided, but here I feel she would straight up be like ''I can never be wrong'' and wants to overthrown the Condesce and kill her even though she Definitly Doesnt Need To Do That. But she is sending a message and telling everyone she is changing shit, well at least that was her OG plan before starting the Game as she found a way to make her Perfect World. She is not happy for the failling. I feel she would become like OG Aranea where she tries to be more relevant, she probably was in cahoots with Aranea in this timeline, besties in crime

She would probably be super studious and involved in everything, to try to become ''The Best Ruler That Beforus Will Ever SEA 38D''

(ignore that i forgot her horns)

About Beforus Feferi in Alternia

Like I feel she wouldnt try to change things in Alternia after coming to power, like I really doubt she is a fucking Nice ruler considering how Alternia is, but I think she has her doubts of how things are like, with how much unnecesary death there is. I think she would be a harsh and cruel ruler who definitly see's Lowbloods pitfully, but when she listens to the Sufferer's speechs and decides to meet with the him in private to hear his demand, I feel that The Handmaid would frame The Sufferer as if he was trying to murder Beforus Feferi and she would quickly change her mind.

Meenah in Alternia I really doubt would be having a good time, she would have to be feeding her lusus on her own, threat of murder with her ancestor, and the general Murderland that is Alternia

I don't think Beforus Feferi left the planet in this case or maybe she is much closer than the OG Condesce, pressuring Meenah to become a fit ruler for Alternia makes Meenah stressed

Like yes The OG Condesce went through similar stuff but i feel that Meenah being younger and also being influenced by her ancestor, her friendgroup, her lusus. She just wants to dip but she CANT with her lusus possibly killing everyone so she is very glad with the game starting soon

Okey this post is getting too long im doing another one later with the other swap!

[royal-confessions]

“Anisha just used her money and rest is PR. If her goal is mateen, fine. Just enjoy. Why spread fraud information and misguid young girls. She never showed any of her working skills publicly just like her party or veccation. There aren't any truthful info. Except biased media others say, it is reported or informed (through RF). Not it is found or revealed. This speaks that how much RFs are liars. Previously JRF used similar trick of PR stunts. It is their life. But PR is rude.” - Submitted by Anonymous

“I don't have any jealous over anisha. But fantasising and spreading lies for repect and popularity is absolutely wrong. Very cleary everyone knew that she is a party girl and spent most of her time in vacations and partying. It her life and she has enough freedom to choose. Also marrying into royalty isn't a controversial or bad thing to be criticised. But potraying her as a successful business women for popularity is absolutely wrong. It is well known that she doesn't take part in it.” - Submitted by Anonymous