#olympia pleasant

[urnooboo]

obligatory group photos with family and friends!!! god posing people is such a tedious task but the photos are always so adorable and worth it ahhhhhhhhh!!!!

[softquietsteadylove]

Masterlist

By popular demand, I have done my best to compile things here for you! I will keep it as updated as I can, and I will still use my same tagging system. Chronologically, you can start at the bottom and work your way up!

Thenamesh 18+ List

Part 2 List

Without further ado:

Thenamesh Family Law AU

(Thena has custody of her younger sisters after their parents’ deaths, which she is determined to handle completely on her own, although Gil - who works at the law firm with her - is even more determined to help)

 // Supporting Arguments

Thenamesh Tomb Raider AU

(Thena is a freelancer who retrieves historical artifacts outside of the usual archaeological duties, although sometimes this conflicts with fellow freelancer - but in no way ally - Gilgamesh) 

Second // First

Thenamesh Vow AU

(Thena suffers an episode which makes her forget the last five years of her life, including her marriage to and even meeting her very sweet husband Gilgamesh)

Elephant in the Room // For Better or Worse // Second First Date // Reminiscing // In Sickness and In Health

Thenamesh Addams Family AU

(Thena meets Gilgamesh, the son of a respected and affluent family, but at least he seems much more pleasant company than their equally dry parents)

Love Stories // Beautiful Weather // The Lee Family

Thenamesh Hamptons AU

(Gil is the private chef for Thena, a reclusive heiress of old money who lives in the Hamptons, and seems really sweet even if she’s only ever said a few words)

Monster’s Ball // Worth its Weight in Gold

Reverse AU

(In a reversal of roles, Gilgamesh is cold and frightening to most, but for the quiet but beloved Warrior Eternal, he’s nothing but soft and warm)

Sunshine // Reversed

Thenamesh Inmate AU

(Thena is an inmate in a women’s correctional facility, where Gil works as a guard and is quite sure there’s more to her than meets the eye)

Safe and Sound // Fair Trade

Thenamesh Cook and Critic AU

(Gil is in the cooking track at a culinary institute which also offers studies such as molecular gastronomy and review for critique, which is how he meets Thena, the critique student with a perfect palette and no personal skills)

The Main Course // Amuse Bouche

Thenamesh 10 Things (I Hate About You) AU

(Sersi is forbidden from dating unless her shrewish sister Thena accompanies her, which Dane accepts with the help of reputational bad-boy Gilgamesh)

Out of the Shadows // Young Love(18+) // To Have and to Hold(18+) // A House Divided // Wherefore Art Thou // Star Crossed // Much Ado // A Midsummer Night

Thenamesh Hunger Games AU

(Gil volunteers for his brother Phastos back home in District 4, and meets Thena, a frighteningly competent but oddly helpful girl from District 2 who volunteered for her younger brother Druig)

In The Wild // In Preparation

Olympia AU

(Sersi uses the unimind energy to bring Gilgamesh back to life, and this ends up with Thena becoming pregnant, but the two aren’t alone in raising their young Eternal)

New Star // Olympia

Thenamesh President AU

(Thena has come into office of the presidency following Ikari’s deposition, with the most key support of her personal assistant, Gilgamesh)

Long Distance Relations // Diplomacy // In Private // Protection Detail // Small Reprieve // Behind Closed Doors

Thenamesh Wildfire AU

(based on Those Who Want Me Dead, Thena is a wildfire fighter who used to do search and rescue, but has sequestered herself to perimeter patrol, where she runs into fellow forest fire fighter Gil)

Enclosed // Key // Safe // Slip Up // Sanctuary // Sparks

Thenamesh Circus AU

(based on Water for Elephants, Thena is a star trapeze artist for a travelling circus, married to ring leader Kro, but undeniably fond of the new veterinarian, Gilgamesh)

Snapped // Out of Sight // Just Out of Reach // Just Us // From Afar // [Just Us]

Thenamesh Gladiator AU

(Gil is a gladiator who fights for Queen Ajak and Princess Thena, who - against all odds - has actually spoken to, and maybe even become fond of, him)

Peace // The War // The Battle // Declaration of War // Tournament Rules // [Declaration of War]

Thenamesh Human AU

(Gil gets weakened to a human status by a Deviant attack, leaving the rest of the Eternals - especially Thena - to protect the Strongest Eternal)

Shattered // Paper Skin // Glass Bones

Thenamesh Dressage AU

(Thena is a champion equestrian and competitive rider of Olympia, whose new caretaker Gilgamesh gets along with the stubborn mare surprisingly well)

Guy Talk // Friends...? // Stallion // High and Mighty // Bales // [Friends...?] // Escaped // Hanging Out // Too Nice

Thenamesh Photographer AU

(Gil is a freelance photographer who has come to work with Thena on various modelling contracts--enough that she’s come to maybe like his company)

Comfy // Three is a Crowd // Natural

Thenamesh Mermaid AU

(Thena is a mermaid who one day saves Gil the fisherman after falling into the water, and they only become closer from there)

Not Today Poseidon // Yearning(18+) // The Morning After // Feeling pt 2(18+) // Expressing pt 1(18+) // Green Around the Gills // Touching(18+) // Not Sharing // Sharing // Forbidden Treasure pt 3 // Forbidden Treasure pt 2 // Forbidden Treasure pt 1 // Home // Protective // Safe // Cuddlefish // Catch and Release // More Human // A Gift // Beautiful

Teach Me to Love AU

(based in this work from Ao3 called Teach Me to Love, in which Thena is a single mother to Druig, whose teacher is Gilgamesh; this has become popular to ask for drabbles on this platform, and thus gets its own section)

Butterflies // Consequences // Tiny Terror // Team Effort // Personal Space // Quiet Night In(18+) // Parent Day // [Personal Space] // Overheard // Bad Dreams // Mister Dad //  Teach Me to Love Again(18+) // Home Sick // Visitation Rights

Thenamesh Hanahaki AU

(Hanahaki is a disease in which love will form in the body as flowers, which can worsen until fatal if gone unrequited or even unspoken)

First Bud // Dying Roses // [First Bud]

Thenamesh Doctor AU

(Thena is a doctor who runs the ER, and is the unofficially official work-wife of Gil, one of the best and certainly the most popular paramedic there)

The Little Things // On Break(18+) // Up Close and Personal(18+) // Search and Rescue // Too Little Too Late // Thanks for the Save // [Up Close and Personal] // 5+1 This Time // Grieving Spouses // Revisiting(18+) // Interrupted(18+) // Red Roses for Love // Dreams // Love // Late Lunch // Ongoing Treatment // Wife Talk // Dropped // If You What // Trapped // A Doctor In the Making // Jealous // Hovering // Threat // Dozing Off // Adrenaline // Dream Team // If Only

Thenamesh Special Forces AU

(Thena is the head of a team of agents, although Kingo is keenly aware that she and Gil feel more strongly about each other than commander and agent)

A Little Help // After the Fight // Fighting for Love pt 4 // Fighting for Love pt 3 // Fighting for Love pt 2 // Fighting for Love pt 1 // Transfer // Guard Dog // First Impressions // Cover Blown // Fall Back // Staying Late // And He Did // Come Back // [A Little Help] //  [First Impressions]

Thenamesh Runaway Bride AU

(Thena is a princess who has run away from her arranged marriage to Prince Eros and found Gil, the very sweet and kind lumberjack who takes her in)

New(18+) // Anniversary Night(18+) // Ruined Celebration // Returning to the Scene // Bedridden // Budding Love // Blueberries // Ran

Thenamesh Bodyguard AU

(Gil is the private bodyguard for the very famous and popular singer, Thena)

Dreams // Cuts the Deepest // Silent Admiration // Sounds of Comfort // Where Is He // Trust Goes Both Ways // Caught in 4K // 5+1 Protection // Duet // Date // Slipped // Contract Negotiation // Sounds of Breakfast // Altercation // Trust // Recovery // Stage Rush // Live // Ambush // Cover // [Live]

Thenamesh Pokemon AU

(Thena is a professional Ace Trainer who works in Victory Road for the League; one day Gil - her best friend and a Pokemon Ranger - rescues a Teddiursa in need of a home)

Antidote // Joining the Flock // [Antidote] // Gil Was Hurt by Poison // First Encounter // Take your Kid to Work Day // 5+1 Interruptions (18+) // Rich Boy Eros Wants to Battle // Just Ask // A Great Fall // Something In the Water // Paldea // Calling In Sick // Accident // Rescue // Poachers // First Checkup // Teddiursa // [First Encounter]

Thenamesh Beauty and the Beast AU

(Gil gets dragged into going up the mountain to look for the cursed beast said to roam around the abandoned castle grounds, unrelated to the missing Princess)

The Eye of the Storm // Search and Rescue // Searching for More // Something in the Mountains

Thenamesh Goalie AU

(Gil is a goalie on the high school hockey team who meets Thena the figure skater in between their practices)

No Practice // Rough Practice

Thenamesh Ghost Files AU

(Gil is an amateur ghost hunter, and an avid believer despite his fear, while Thena joins him whether she believes in ghosts or not; conceived with Taran)

Lying // Forward // Be Still, My Beating Heart

Thenamesh Maleficent AU

(Thena and her brothers Ikaris and Druig visit a larger nest from some southern islands; Gil is a nest guard entrusted with guiding and protecting the visitors)

Lookalike // Nesting // Preening // Healing // Trinket // Rescue // Morning // Exchange

Thenamesh Rus AU

(I headcanon that the Eternals were in Kievan-Rus for a time, during which Thena was the war advisor to Saint Olga)

Doomed to Fail // Yours // Warming Comfort // If It Were You // Wounded Pride // She’ll Live // [Warming Comfort] // Soft Water // Warming Up // [Yours] // [She’ll Live]

Thenamesh Ballerina/Boxer AU

(Thena is a ballerina who teaches classes with Sersi across the hall from Gil and his boxing studio)

Fallen // Holding Back(18+) // Life Imitates Art(18+) // Morning Stretching(18+) // Same Territory Different Angle // Territory // Swan Fight // Night Out // Locker Room(18+) // Friendly Match // Friendly Fire // Kiss // Performance // The Swan

Ice Queen/Tyrant King AU

(Thena and Gil are rival mob bosses in the same city; Gil is a gangster who runs Koreatown and everything therein, while Thena controls the diamond industry)

Retaliation // Matching // Lovers’ Quarrel(18+) // 5+1 The Little Things // Meetings // Boyfriend Stuff // Family Visit // Engaged(18+) // Proposal pt 3 // Proposal pt 2 // Proposal pt 1 // Frisky(18+) // Rings // Home Again // Tell Me // Physiotherapy // [Tell Me] // Shots Fired pt 2 // Shots Fired pt 1 // Standing Up // Lying Down // Tied(18+) // Skating // Lost // [Boyfriend Stuff] // Target Practice // Lunch // Reconciliation(18+) // Committed pt 3 // Committed pt 2 // Committed pt 1 // [Meetings] // Targets // [Target Practice] // Poisoned // Dates // It’s Fine // Resolution(18+) // Tension

Thenamesh Life Interrupted AU

(based on the prompt of Girl Interrupted, Thena is a patient in a psych ward, where Gil works in the cafeteria)

New Perspective // Unfamiliar Territory // Getting Better // Bad Day // Outside // Hiding

Thenamesh Receptionist AU

(Thena works as the personal receptionist for Gil, who runs a ‘shipping’ business, but is actually a mafia leader)

Best Served Cold(18+) // Above the Table(18+) // Under the Table(18+) // Free(18+) // Cells // Sundubu Jjigae // Meeting Gone Violent // Shopping // Party // Meeting Gone Wrong // Back in the Office(18+) // Wounded // Sick Day // London(18+) // [Shopping] // Kidnapped // [Sundubu Jjigae]

Thenamesh Actors AU

(Thena and Gil are both professional actors; Gil is famous for doing his own stunts, Thena’s sister Sprite is a big fan of his)

Falling Harder // Sexiest Man Alive // Rubbing It In // Old Wounds // The Big Speech // Too Early for This // (No) Competition // Bewitched // Encouragement // Working Up a Sweat // Never Again // Late Dinner // Red Carpet // He and She // On His Arm // He’s Done // High Score // The Skittles Diet // Salad // Eros’ Panel // Rehearsal // Conference // Movie Night // Sling // Stunt Fall // Paparazzi // Interview // Finally Meeting

Thenamesh Proposal AU

(Thena and Gil have worked together for some time, but when Gil wants trick his father into thinking he’s engaged, he asks Thena for help, and things only get more out of hand from there)

Just Five More Minutes // Just the Dishes // Just One Dance // Just a Snack // The Decaffeinated One // The Beach One // One Bed // The One // Dress Fitting // [One Bed]

Thenamesh Zombie AU

(Thena finds Gil at the end of the world and they decide to stick together)

Candlelit // If Anything Happens // More Than Just Us // Good In the World // 5+1 Injuries // Later // Safe to Sleep // Shed Tears // A Little Help // First Leaving // Train // [First Leaving]

Thenamesh College AU

(Gil and Thena meet through Kingo)

Halloween // First Sight

Thenamesh Spy AU

(all agents have partners, although Thena and Gil might be closer than most)

Relief(18+) // Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing // Rescue Mission // Eyes Elsewhere(18+) // Eyes on Her // Eyes on Target // Extrication

Jack and Thenamesh

(I would consider this somewhere within their canon but not strictly adhering to the rules of the film)

Family Valentines // Day Off // Multigenerational // Confused // Fathers’ Day // Party Guests of Honour // Home Alone // Dog Park // Family Christmas // Bake Sale // Talent Show // Trick or Treating // Prizes // Episode pt 2 // Episode pt 1 // Pick Up // Soccer // Natural

Thenamesh

(I consider these close enough to what we know of the canon to be part of that particular timeline - although not necessarily connected to each other - and dynamic, including Babylon, Australia, Tenochtitlan, etc. I will include things during and close enough to the movie’s timeline, and not things potentially taking place much further from that)

Sleeprunning // Promise of Paradise // Stars // Healing // Warmth // The Sun in Babylon // Three Days Later // Instinct // Be Mine // Out of the House // Comfort // You, Here, This // Aftermath // Hurt // First and Harder // The Bath Halls // Gil’s Nightmare // Woken Up // Nightmare // On the Beach // Drunk // Unwelcome Advances // Sleepwalking // Overly Affectionate // By the River

Thenamesh AU

(every au has this tag, although as soon as it gains a second installment it loses it and becomes part of that running au; anything from slightly outside of the movie’s canon to completely separate ideas)

Eternal and Human // My Kingdom for a Heart AU // Far Out in the Australian Desert // Bittersweet // Enemies to Lovers // Human and Eternal // The Last of Us Remaining // Academic Tension // Unbearable Love // Last Christmas (This Year) // Curve the Bullet // Sorry to Keep You Waiting // The Tourist // Jujutsu Kaisen AU // Cake // Unspoken // Runaway Love // Camp Counselling // Scream // My First and Only AU // The Tube // Young Babylon // Mind Control // Onions // Only the Mahdness // Socrates // Isn’t it? // This is Him // Mr. And Mrs. Lee AU // His Recipe // Passing Notes AU // Intervening // Dane Meets History // Hit a Nerve // Given Enough // Family Bonding // Wedding Reception // Inevitable // Reunion // Total Erasure // A Running Leap AU // Something New // Christmas Cookies // Lifeguard AU // Panic // Pet Store // Sculptor AU // That Time // Lawyer/Client AU // Arthur // Amnesia AU // Family Dinner // Believe in Love // Flirting // Mr. and Mrs. Lee AU // Public Episode // The Australia Chronicles AU // Mid Fight // Mafia AU // [Wedding Reception] // Wedding Gift // Birthday // Interfering // Territorial

Thenamesh Week 2022

(stand alone entries from pre-selected prompts)

08 - Reunion // 07 - Chaotic Family // Spicy 07 - First Time // 06 - Hurt/Comfort // 05 - Soulmates // 04 - Canon AU // Spicy 04 - Outside // 03 - Remember // Spicy 03 - Sweet and Slow // 02 - First Kiss // Spicy 02 - Shower // 01 - Modern AU // Spicy 01 - Wedding Night

[gaygryffindorgal]

A Christmas Prince; The Royal Wedding

Chapter 6: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Summary: Dawn is missing and Quincey and Evander both face challenges of their own.

A/N: It's the customary Quincey chapter! This time with a little Evander twist... It's way past Christmas at this point but this is the second to last chapter and I'm hoping to post the last one as soon as I'm able. This story had a lot of moving parts and I've had to leave many things out simply because I haven't had the time to write. If you're sick of Christmas stuff already, I acknowledge your suffering but I do not apologize😂

Words: 2.8k

Characters:

Dawn Harvelle, Rosa Yaxley, and Evander Alderly by @potionboy3

Quincey, Olympia, and Isabella Alderly, Tess Brandon

Rocky Weasley by @magicallymalted

Pandora Lovelace by@gcldensnitch

Beginning | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Want to read the first fic in the series, A Christmas Prince? Click here!

Chapter 6: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Quincey

Quincey could safely say that he was not having a good day. Of course, he understood that Dawn wasn’t used to the kind of rigorous protocol that life at court demanded but what he couldn’t understand was why he had insisted on going out on some crazy adventure the previous night. Anything could have happened. After the unpleasant meeting at Pince’s office, Quincey went through the notes his mother had made to his speech and resolved to deal with it later. He really had to talk to Dawn. Nothing had gone according to plan ever since Dawn had arrived. He came to the smaller sitting room, holding out hope that Dawn would be there when he heard Olympia’s voice.

“Still at it?” she was asking.

“Silence, cousin,” came Evander’s voice as a reply. “I’m getting there.”

“Are all those coffee mugs yours?”

“And mine,” said Dawn’s aunt Tess.

“Anything I can do?” Olympia asked.

“Develop malware for me to drop into their RDP…” said Evander and that was when Quincey decided to stop eavesdropping and enter the room.

“Good morning,” he said, and all three people suddenly jumped, like there’d been an explosion.

“Quincey!” said Olympia. “How lovely to see you.”

Quincey frowned. “What are you doing?”

“Oh,” said Evander. “I was just introducing your dear sister and Miss Brandon to the intricacies of cryptocurrency so maybe we could all come together and save the kingdom.”

Quincey ignored the sarcasm in his voice. “Have any of you seen Dawn?”

“Not since last night,” said Tess.

“Well, damn,” said Quincey.

“Is everything alright?” Olympia asked.

“I don’t know…”

That’s when the double doors were pulled open with haste and Miss Pince came in, Miss Yaxley in tow.

“Has anyone seen Mr. Harvelle?”

“That’s what I was wondering,” mused Quincey.

“You mean to tell me he’s not here?” asked Pince.

“Well, I’m not hiding him in my pocket,” said Evander but Pince did not find this amusing.

“He has to be found,” said Rosa. “The queen is going ballistic over the wedding preparations.”

“I’m half of the equation, maybe I can help,” Quincey offered.

“No, the queen said Mr. Harvelle must be there,” said Pince.

“It’s almost like it would be her wedding…” said Quincey with a sigh.

~

Quincey found his mother in the room reserved for wedding planning, outfitting, and all those other things that his mother seemed to think she had some sort of control over. The outfit Quincey assumed Dawn was supposed to wear was on a mannequin. It was very traditional, nothing like he’d imagine Dawn would pick for himself. He realized he hadn’t the foggiest idea what his mother, Miss Yaxley, and Dawn had been up to with the wedding preparations. It wasn’t a pleasant feeling.

“Dawn’s missing?” he asked his mother as he entered. There was nobody else in the room but them.

“He did not show up for his fitting.”

“I’ll call him,” said Quincey.

“His phone is offline.”

That was worrying. Quincey tried it anyway, but true enough, he only got a message saying the phone had been turned off.

“Well,” said the queen. “I sincerely hope we won't have to cancel the wedding.”

“Stop,” said Quincey.

“Maybe he has finally realized that the pressures of court are too much for him,” said Isabella, forlornly.

“You’re certainly not helping,” Quincey sighed. “Is that what he’s supposed to wear?”

“Yes. I had a hand in its design.”

“I’ll ask Flitwick to look into Dawn’s whereabouts,” said Quincey. “And mother?”

“Yes?”

“You can forget about that costume. I’ll have a word with Miss Yaxley. I sincerely hope that it’s not too late to make this wedding mine and Dawn’s, and not whatever you’ve been doing behind my back.”

Isabella looked shocked. “Quentin, I’ve only been trying to help you.”

“I know, and I truly appreciate the help,” he said. “Especially when it comes to the financial situation. But I never asked your help in this.”

“Alright,” said Isabella. “I admit, I did get a little carried away.”

“A little?”

“Fine,” said Isabella. “A lot.”

“But you can help me find Dawn now,” said Quincey.

“I would be glad to.”

~

The palace had its fair share of hiding places and so, a lot of the staff were requested to keep an eye out for the run-away groom, but Quincey had an idea of his own of where to look. He headed to the courtyard.

“Dawn!” he called out between the hedges.

“No such luck,” said Olympia, dressed up against the cold in her light pink winter coat. “I figured I might also look here.”

“Oh, hey,” said Quincey but his spirits were immediately lowered.

“Don’t worry, we’ll find him.”

“I’ve been such a fool,” said Quincey.

Olympia walked up to him and put a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

“I screwed up,” he said, miserably.

“What happened?” asked Olympia.

“Dawn’s been having a hard time adjusting to everything here and I’ve been too invested in my duties as king to be supportive.”

“You’ve had a falling out?”

“Just when he needed me most, I caved in to the crown.”

Olympia sighed, seemed to think about something for a while, and then said: “After father died, and you left us to go soul-searching, I was so angry with you…”

“O, I…”

“…At first. But then I realized this life we find ourselves in, the titles and responsibilities we bear, can overwhelm any person, especially a good-hearted one.”

“I've allowed it to happen,” said Quincey.

“You accepted your title with eyes wide open, with the best intent. And that's the brother I love.”

“I've made such a mess of everything.”

“Thanks to Dawn, and I can’t believe I have to say this, Evander, I think we have an actual shot at fixing the country’s problems,” Olympia said.

“What?”

“I’ll explain later,” Olympia said. “Just trust me. All you should focus on right now is finding your fiancé.”

Quincey thought about it. The thing was that he did trust Olympia with his life, but this wasn’t just about him. He had been the one to swear an oath to serve and protect all of his subjects and right now he was doing a piss-poor job of it.

“Please, Q,” said Olympia.

Quincey sighed. “There is one more place he could be in.”

“Yeah?”

“I’m going to need Archimedes.”

~

His father’s old hunting cabin’s windows were lit when Quincey and Archimedes arrived. He stabled the horse and entered the cabin, finding Dawn sat in front of a small fire, drinking hot chocolate.

“Dawn,” he said when Dawn didn’t make a move at the sound of the door.

“I'm so sorry,” he tried again. “Talk to me.”

Finally, Dawn turned around, demanding: “Now you want to talk? You had nothing to say when I needed you in Pince's office.”

“I know.”

“They want me to give up everything, Quincey. My voice, my career.”

“I thought you didn’t want to be a journalist anymore,” said Quincey.

“That’s not the point!” said Dawn. “The point is that I’m supposed to act like a goddamn ornament in one of your over-the-top Christmas trees and that’s not me!”

“Forget about everyone else,” said Quincey. “This should be about you and me.”

Dawn got up from the armchair. He didn’t look pleased. “I always thought that you would support me, and this week has just been so tough.”

“Dawn, please…”

“Just let me finish, okay?” said Dawn and Quincey shut up. “Everything is changing. I feel like I'm losing control and… I'm not used to living like this. This fishbowl, this distance between us,” he finished, taking a deep breath.

“I know it's hard,” said Quincey. “Trust me, I know.”

“It’s not the same for us, though,” said Dawn.

“Everything is changing. For both of us,” said Quincey, stepping closer to Dawn. When Dawn didn’t pull away, he took his hands. “But there is one thing that will never change: My love for you.”

“Shut up,” said Dawn. “You’re not sweet-talking your way out of this one.”

“I don’t want you to have to sacrifice anything to be with me,” Quincey continued. “Your talent, your creativity, your determination… But some things are out of my control.”

“Like my little mission last night?” Dawn asked.

“You could have been hurt,” said Quincey. “The country isn’t exactly approving of us at the moment.”

“That might have been a miscalculation on my part.”

“But I need you,” said Quincey. “And Alderly needs you, too.”

“Well, it has a funny way of showing it,” Dawn said. “I’ve been nothing but a glorified wedding planner–, no not even that. I’ve been standing in the sidelines while our wedding has been planned for us.”

“Yes,” said Quincey. “About that. I had a chat with mother. The wedding’s going to see some changes.”

“What?” asked Dawn. “You did?”

“Well, it all got a bit much, don’t you think?”

“I very much do think that, yeah,” said Dawn.

“How come you came here?” asked Quincey. They hadn’t been back together since the snowstorm last year, though Quincey had visited on his own.

“I just wanted something to feel Christmassy,” Dawn explained. “So I stole some of the biscuits meant for our wedding and came here.”

Quincey laughed. “Okay, that’s actually fair enough.”

“It hasn’t really felt too festive here, recently.”

“I know.”

Dawn bit his lip. “I’d like to have an active role in the family. I don’t want to be just an ornament.”

“You won’t be. I don’t want that either.”

Dawn sighed and reached to touch Quincey’s face. He hadn’t entirely forgiven him; Quincey wasn't foolish enough to believe that. But at least he hadn’t told him to fuck off, so he considered it a start. “Alright, we need to get back to the palace, now and see if Evander has saved the country.”

Quincey decided not to question it, for now.

~

Evander

Evander had commandeered a couch after his back began to protest, sitting at the table. Dawn’s little laptop was putting in the works and Evander sincerely hoped it wouldn’t give out now. He decided to give Dawn a proper laptop as a wedding present, until he remembered he was pretty much broke. Maybe he could sell the ugly cabin in the mountains his mother had gotten him one Christmas. Evander looked up when he heard someone enter the room, but it was just Tess, bringing another round of coffee. The table was starting to fill with mugs.

“Here,” she said, handing the other to him.

Evander took it. “Oh, thanks…”

Tess was pretty much the only person who had been nice to him this entire time, which was odd, since she had no reason to. Unless she was secretly adding poison to his coffee, or that weird herbal tea she had made him the other night. He had slept like a baby the first time in months after it but that had only made him doubly suspicious. He sniffed the coffee, cautiously.

“No herbs,” said Tess. “Just coffee.”

“So just like the previous three.”

Tess nodded. “Just like them.”

Evander eyes her and then the coffee. “Okay.”

“How are you doing?” she asked, still standing up.

“I found a promising lead, but I can’t crack it,” said Evander. “At least, not yet.”

“Damn.”

Evander resolved that the coffee probably wasn’t poisoned. He took a sip. “You make surprisingly good coffee.” Considering the tea tasted like shit, but he didn’t say that part out loud.

Tess chuckled, quietly. “Thanks, though I think it’s probably just that you people have quality coffee here. I don’t normally drink it an awful lot.”

“Could be,” said Evander. “You should consider adding coffee to your selection.”

Just as a suggestion. For all the other people who didn’t like suspicious herbs. He didn’t know much about Tess’s business, other than that he found all the herbal teas horrid but for some reason it was relatively successful.

“I’ll consider it,” said Tess. “If we don’t go to jail for this.”

She motioned vaguely at the computer on Evander’s lap.

“Don’t worry, if I get caught, I won’t bust you.”

“I appreciate that,” Tess mused. “But I think we’re sort of in this together, now.”

Evander didn’t say anything while Tess sat next to him, pulling a blanket on her legs. He thought she was pretty but pretty in a way his mother wouldn’t approve of. Kind of like Rosa was but somehow, he had a feeling like his mother would approve of Tess even less. The only person he could conceive of his mother approving was Diana Somerset but that had been doomed from the start, and Evander was happy she’d turned down his proposal.

He hadn’t spoken to his mother in months and in a way, he missed her a little. It had been about time to cut the cord, though. To find out what he actually wanted for himself. One thing he had learned was that it sucked to be poor and lonely. He missed his family. Especially his entitled royal cousins who he’d never even really liked before. And he knew that he couldn’t trust the country to Quincey’s hands alone when the man had gone to a fucking liberal arts school. Deep down he felt bad, too. Bad about what he had done to him and how he’d left things. He had put himself first and not Alderly, as he should have done. The right thing to do would have been to be there for Quincey and help him, instead of listening to his mother, but that was a lesson learned.

Tess leaned in closer so she could see the computer screen better. Evander was pretty sure she didn’t have experience on the hacking front, but he appreciated another pair of eyes, and maybe he also appreciated her presence. She smelled nice. He felt immensely tired. It had been almost ten hours and they still had pretty much nothing. He felt his focus drift and drank more coffee. He wasn’t exactly sure how much time passed, when Tess suddenly grabbed his wrist and pointed at the screen.

“What’s that?” she asked.

Evander examined the piece of code. “If I just follow this strand…” he said quietly.

Tess let go of his hand so he could continue typing.

“Is this…” he started as the computer did exactly as he had wanted it to.

“Oh my god,” said Tess.

“I think I’m in!” said Evander and jumped up from the couch in excitement. He had almost given up hope so he couldn’t quite believe this plan might actually stand a chance in hell at working.

Tess got up as well and said: “Holy crap,” with a delighted laugh. She did a little jump and clapped her hands together. Evander, high off of his achievement, kissed her cheek before thinking better off it. The pair looked at each other for a fraction of a second. Then Evander cleared his throat and sat back down, grabbing the computer.

“It’s not over yet,” he said, as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. “This is pretty time sensitive.”

“Right, yeah, of course,” said Tess. She also sat back down, and Evander was careful not to look at her. Maybe he had been wrong. Maybe his mother would like her. Tess was pretty smart, after all.

~

Half an hour later Olympia, Rocky, and Pandora returned, presumably from searching for a certain run-away groom.

“We're in,” Evander said.

“What?” asked Pandora. “Seriously?”

“I honestly didn’t think you had it in you,” said Rocky with a yawn. It seemed Evander and Tess weren’t the only ones in need of a nap.

“Shut up and come see,” he said, and the newcomers gathered around the couch Evander and Tess had occupied, to see the screen. All the information pertaining to the companies was there for them to see. Silently Evander echoed Rocky’s sentiment though. After almost ten hours he’d begun to think that maybe he had overestimated his abilities.

“What does it say about those three companies?” asked Rocky.

“Each are listed as a division of this... Glockenspiel Consortium,” said Evander.

“Glockenspiel?” wondered Olympia. “What's that?”

“It could be a parent company, or a shell, used to funnel the money to a foreign entity,” Evander said. It would make sense why neither he nor Olympia had ever heard of it, despite being Alderlian.

“You have a disturbing knowledge of underhanded activities,” Olympia said but there was distinctly less venom in her voice than there had been before, so Evander didn’t take it too personally.

“That would explain why so little of the money's staying in Alderly,” said Tess, who had a much more comprehensive grasp of how businesses worked than dear cousin Olympia.

“Perhaps if we dig a little bit deeper into Glockenspiel…” said Evander, clicking further into the files. “Oh, shit…”

Everyone had seen it; Evander could tell from their shocked expressions.

“I can’t believe it,” said Olympia.

“What are we going to do now?” asked Pandora.

“Quincey’s gone to look for Dawn. He might be a while,” said Olympia.

“We’re going to wait for the king to get back,” said Evander. “He needs to hear this before we do anything.”

tag list: @lifeofkaze, @gcldensnitch, @endlessly-cursed, @cursed-herbalist, @magicallymalted

(ask if you want to be included or removed)

[coinandcandle]

Karpo Deity Guide

Who is Karpo?

Seen as somewhat of a minor deity in mythos, Karpo (Καρπω) , also written as Carpo, is the Greek goddess or one of the Horae—goddesses of the seasons—representing Autumn and harvest. The ancients had varying ideas of the seasons and these ideas would change depending on where, when, and who you asked.

In some places, there were three seasons, and so there were three Horae. In other places, there were only two, and in others, there were four or five.

Despite being a minor deity in mythology, Karpo (along with the other Horae) had some big jobs to do. Horae were in charge of guarding Olympus, helping Helios, protecting young humans and newborn gods, as well as running the passage of time and ripening fruit!

Parents and Siblings

For parentage, there are two main pairings I’ve found:

Zeus and Themis (Hesiod)

Helios and Selene (Later in Roman myth)

For siblings the list could go on forever, as this list would change depending on the parents. Instead, I’ll list the other Horae:

Auxo

Thallo

(Originally the three seasons’ goddesses were the Auxo, Thallo, and Carpo. Later other Horae were added)

Lovers or Partners

None listed

Children

None listed

Epithets

Phthinoporon (a later iteration of the goddess of Autumn, who some say is the same as Karpo)

The Bringer of Food/Fruits

Damia (possibly)

Notes

Karpo comes from the Greek Karpos meaning “fruit” but her name could also mean “harvest” in the context of the Horae.

The Horae were mostly worshipped by farmers.

It’s possible the name Karpo started as an epithet of Demeter.

Karpo is also described as also having been a Charity by Pausanias

I have found one mention of a festival—Horaea, with no date or timeframe given.

The Horae were often found in the company of Aphrodite, the Muses, and Apollo.

Karpo specifically has been associated with Dionysus, Persephone, Hera, and Pan.

In early Athens, only Karpo and Thallo were worshipped. They were also worshipped at Argos, Corinth, and Olympia.

The Horae are also seen as protectresses of newborn gods and of youths and as such were mentioned in the oaths that Athenian youths would make in the temple of Agraulos

They are depicted as young maidens, often dressed lightly and covered in flowers. The Horae are pleasant and kind towards humans, neutral at worst.

Modern Deity Work

Not much is known about how the Horae were worshipped, so I have done my best to find some traditional offerings and correspondences as well as modern ones.

Correspondences

Rocks/Stone/Crystals

Gold, Carnelian

Herbs/Plants

Grapes

Most fruits but especially those from Ancient Greece such as pomegranates, raisins, and figs.

Olives

Animals

Hare

Lizard

Offerings

Wine

Grapes

Olives, olive oil

Flowers (+ flower garlands, flower crowns)

Honey

Jewelry

Acts of Devotion

Work in a garden or tend to plants

Appreciate the passage of time

Celebrate annual festivals or holidays related to the passage of time

References and Further Reading

History Cooperative - Horae

Theoi Project - Karpo

Theoi Project - Horai

Ancient-greece.org - Horae

World History - Horae

Hellenica World - Horae

[phantasmagoriaoriginals]

Here There be Monsters: Creature Basic Intros (Part 2)

Sigil

Fae, he/they.

His species stands out among all other Creatures— and Sigil both lives up to the outstanding Fae reputation and defies the norm. He doesn't seem to have any deep attachment to his kind, so it's all too easy to forget that he's something far beyond human.

Easygoing to a fault, Sigil is a strange combination of serene, ethereal grace and empty-headed carelessness. Very little can catch him off guard or wipe the gentle smile off his pretty face, though his go-with-the-flow nature often comes across as aloof. However, no matter how gentle and pleasant he appears, an apathetic, superficial cruelty lurks underneath it all.

5'9. Eerily beautiful, with fine features, a serene, gentle smile, and a slender, graceful build. Fair skin, light silver eyes, and pale gold hair, falling past his waist, that shimmers faintly with a rainbow of hues. Handsome in an almost androgynous way, with beauty that leaves many humans captivated beyond speech.

Jericoh

Fae, he/him.

Though Fae usually have little interest in human matters, Jerichoh has an unusual penchant for "making use" of the mortal world. He's spent quite a while involved with organized crime, using his supernatural abilities to treat the humans around him like pawns.

Arrogant, vindictive, self-important, and more than a little power-hungry, he finds no disgrace in unfair tactics and dirty tricks. Materialistic tendencies are his ultimate undoing— though he refuses to admit that he's not as untouchable as he claims. Acting like the rest of the world is beneath him, he'll shamelessly use and abuse anyone who might benefit his interests.

6'0. Tall and carries himself proudly. Broad-shouldered, lean-yet-powerful build. Sharp, handsome features, light brown skin, bright gold eyes, and a charming, wicked smirk. Short, dark brown hair usually worn slicked back and out of his face, and often sports a small mustache goatee, or at least some stubble.

Olympia

Fae, she/her.

An outstandingly important figure among her species, with the sheer presence to match. The exact system of authority that the Fae follow remains a mystery to humans, but there's yet to be one observed who doesn't willingly defer to Olympia's orders.

Both intimidatingly dignified and perpetually jovial, humans never quite know what to do around Olympia. Her charisma and larger-than-life personality hide a brilliant mind and a methodical nature; she's a schemer at heart, though her plans seem to be more about drama and entertainment than malice. There are very few people who can keep up with her, and she's well aware of that.

6'2. Imposing, statuesque build, deep, rich brown skin, and a face that appears strikingly beautiful to whoever sees it. Pale lilac eyes, and ivory-hued hair that reaches to her hips, most often worn in a complex updo styled with pearls, pins, and flowers. Wears extravagant clothing and near-excessive jewelry.

Seraph

Djinn, any pronouns.

Because of a "lit" core that can relight itself endlessly, Seraph is functionally immortal. Their physical form is fluid like smoke, and the incorporeal nature of her existence means that he lacks the proper, mortal concept of passing time and physical decay.

Curious in all the worst ways, Seraph finds endless fun in flustering, irritating, and provoking everyone around them. She's infuriatingly emotionally intelligent, with a quick wit and an obnoxious skill for improv. At the same time that he's happily apathetic toward the world, their true personality and abilities go well beyond the playful pervert persona most often seen.

5'7. Physical form shifts at will, and can present as "male" or "female" (or something else) depending on their mood. Light brown skin, orchid purple eyes, and blazingly vivid, red-orange hair that's chin-length and falling over one side of their face. Most often surrounded by hazy trails of fragrant, multi-colored smoke.

Hyakku

Dodomeki, she/her.

A naturally passive Creature whose many eyes grant her superhuman awareness of her surroundings. Though she's useful for information-gathering and surveillance, her species has a long history of being distrusted by humans and seen as greedy.

Hyakku's personality is dull and unassuming at best. Rarely speaking or interacting with others, she silently observes the world around her, follows orders, and little more. She's prone to self-hatred and isolating behavior, but she's also nowhere near as apathetic as she wants people to think— her existence feels so hopeless that she'd rather not look like a fool by aiming too high.

5'4. Slim, unassuming build usually hidden by heavy clothes. Light skin, dark eyes, and pleasant, yet rather plain, features. Dull, straight black hair that falls to her waist, usually pulled back in a neat ponytail with a few loose strands framing her face. Her body is covered in dozens of inhuman eyes, kept closed to hide them.

Julchen

Centaur, she/her.

Her species has a poor reputation among humans— and she's determined to prove it wrong. However, her short temper, emotional nature, and "improper" morals make that a bit difficult. Prideful, she dislikes being associated with other Creatures.

Strict, organized, and controlling, with an anxious personality and a mind that moves too fast for her own good. Though Julchen is great at keeping people in line, stress easily makes her short-tempered and pushy. She's stronger than she realizes, but her emotional control is poor. More than anything else, she hates when people look down on her or assume the wrong things.

5'10. Narrow, lanky, sharp-angled build with toned, lean strength. Plain, nervous-looking features, with pinched brows and a frequent, anxious frown. Short, yellowish-brown hair kept in a messy, somewhat choppy style, amber eyes, and light, tanned skin. Stronger than she looks, and keeps good posture.

Kin

Nekomata, she/they/it.

Though she publicly claims to be a Bakeneko, in reality, she's the more long-lived, powerful, and scheming Nekomata. A natural chaos-causer, Kin has far more tricks up her sleeve than anyone likes. She's not malicious, but her crafty nature shines through.

Most of the time, Kin comes across as a peppy, energetic person with a love of fun and excitement. She's enthusiastic, playful, and social, but her idea of a good time often comes across as mean-spirited and deceitful. Underneath her cheerful smile, she has a predator's instincts— however, she's every bit as content to play the part of a "house pet" when it means easier living.

5'5. Curvy, slightly plump build with round cheeks, wide eyes, and a somehow petite stature. Shoulder-length, slightly messy white hair streaked with a mixture of gold and bright red. Wide, yellow eyes, sharp teeth, and a beaming grin. White cat ears (in place of human ones), and a matching long, gold-striped tail.

Lobos

Black Dog, he/they.

A guardian by nature, Lobos is a Creature manifested from the warped spirit of a dog that met an unfortunate end. The sight of him strikes fear in humans, electrical currents shift around his presence, and his movements are as silent as fog.

Though he's the definition of a gentle giant on the inside, Lobos comes across as downright terrifying. His intense gaze, taciturn demeanor, and overprotective tendencies make him come across as a threat, but in reality, he's somewhere between socially awkward and poor at expressing himself. He's fond of children, struggles with crowds, and fiercely loyal to a select few.

6'11. Massive, stocky, muscular build that's every bit as powerful as it looks. Shaggy black hair, upper back-length, pulled into a loose, barely contained ponytail in the back while the front fluffs out. Dark brown eyes, prominent fangs, and rugged features. Claw-like nails, thick body hair, and a low, growling voice.

[mkm-blog-travel]

Paris Travel

The place dreamed of by most couples, the city of love and much more than what they have told you.

Let yourself be attracted by its magnificent monuments, its historic streets and its great magic in romanticism.

Anecdotes:

-When we arrived in Paris we were trying excellent restaurants and especially a place of classic and original macarons

-We were having a picnic in the parks of the Eiffel Tower, we watched the night and enjoyed the Camps Elysse.

-We were in Paris from April to May, it is a recommended date because the weather was very pleasant

-We were walking through Montmartre, the most artistic neighborhood in Paris, when we saw many artists painting live in the streets.

-We were visiting one of the oldest and most impressive Gothic cathedrals, Notre Dame and we took many photos to remember that beautiful day.

-We were taking a cruise on the Seine River and we really enjoyed the wonderful view of the city.

What should we bring?

You should wear perfume, very fashionable and a little elegant clothes, umbrellas and a camera for the incredible photos

Activities you can do

-You could climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy the views from the top of the most beautiful monument in Paris.

-You should start the day on the Champs-Elysées, enjoying a walk along “the most beautiful avenue in the world.”

-You shouldn't miss the Louvre Museum and Get up close and personal with the Mona Lisa!

-You should visit the Notre-Dame cathedral and Pay your respects to Our Lady of Paris.

-You could attend a show at the Paris Opera, a concert at the Olympia tatro or a ballet at the Moulin Rouge.

-You should visit the Sacred Heart Basilica, it offers wonderful views of the city and is a popular place to watch the sunset.

The Louvre Museum

Recommendations for sustainable tourism.

-You should choose an ecological hotel with sustainable practices that use renewable energy, ecological products and save water.

-Move green in Paris. You should use the subway, bus, tram or light rail: economical and ecological!

-Cycle through Paris. You should rent a bike and enjoy the city while exercising.

-Taste Paris with local products. You could enjoy restaurants that use fresh and seasonal ingredients, supporting the local economy.

-Volunteer in Paris! You could help the local community and make a difference. There are many organizations that need you.

You should take care of the places you visit. Don't vote trash and respect the environment.

Reviews

-I was walking around Paris, admiring the architecture and visiting monuments like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. It was a wonderful experience

-I took the tour of the Seine River at sunset and while I was having dinner I was able to see the Eiffel Tower light up. I recommend you do this tour.

-I was visiting museums like the Louvre and learned about French history and culture.

-I was touring the city on public transportation but it was very slow and there were a lot of people

-I couldn't enjoy the city because it rained very hard on the days I was visiting the city.

-I traveled to Paris with my family and my children enjoyed all the places we visited. It was a very nice experience

[voirs-fortunes]

What are your thoughts on Olympia?

She's a pleasant enough figure. I'm afraid she's not a person I often think about. I can't give a better answer.

[evilasiangenius]

Time passed meaningless in the perpetual twilight within the tall jar, and it seemed like Crawly slipped in and out of a pleasant sleepy unconsciousness, occasionally waking for a moment when a human came into this room though they did not linger.

Sometimes footsteps could be heard. Even more rarely, someone’s voice. Strange, how few people came in here, and the snake wondered; what kind of personal room was this? How did the queen use this room? Crawly tried to remember the layout but it wasn’t an easy prospect, not when the snake had only caught a bare glimpse of hangings and furniture before being set down into a jar. One thing that Crawly was certain of however was that it was not a bedchamber or a sitting room, and given the warmth, Crawley wondered if it was some sort of special store room for snakes.

A snake store room, just as they had store rooms for books.

A snake library.

Crawly hissed in amusement, laughing silently as snakes do, before curling up once more, the tip of a long tail covering a cool nose before drowsing off again.

The rasping sound of the lid being moved as well as a cool draft that trickled down the tall sides of the jar stirred Crawly into waking. A light, nothing more than a little oil lamp whose brightness could not really chase away the shadows was set down on a nearby table, and Crawly tasted the faint scent of molecules of burning olive oil with a flickering tongue.

The demon looked up, yawning, wondering what time it was and if there was a drink of wine to be had and where in Hell Asmodeus was, if he had left the demon to sleep on the warm floor but then Crawly remembered being a snake in a jar.

Despite the darkness, Crawly could see clearly the figure of Olympias as she sat down, dragging the tall ceramic container close and the snake felt the hollow rasp of the bottom of the jar scraping along the floor, rattling through every rib and vertebrae.

And then, nothing.

Crawly looked up, curious, but there was nothing to see from here. The snake tried to crawl up the side of the jar, but it was too slick and so the snake yawned, settling back down in the warm darkness, wondering what to do. Couldn’t change shape, not while in the jar, would either get stuck or break something, and possibly not the jar. Maybe become a bit bigger to become long enough to slither out? Later, when there were no humans about. Probably should return soon to report in...

And while Crawly thought those demon thoughts, the queen sat for a long time quiet, her arm slung around the jar.

Finally, after about an hour by Crawly’s estimation, she sat up.

“Do you know what’s tedious, little snake?” Olympias leaned over the vessel, peering down at Crawly who gazed up at her with unblinking golden eyes.

Unable to shrug, Crawly did the second best thing, which was flick a long forked tongue and wiggle the tip of a thin tail.

“Everything. Every single day. If I didn’t have to do this, I wouldn’t. Fighting and scheming and strategizing… I’d rather read books and see plays and play games of strategy. Spend time only with my friends but know who I could really be friends with, and not suspect everyone who wants to get close. Be comfortable and not think constantly about dressing up and cosmetics and what to eat or what not to eat and how I look, and if I’m still desirable…and do you think I’m still beautiful, snake? Oh, what does it matter, why is it so important, that I’m even asking you? I hate that I have to think like this. It feels so shallow and insipid.

“If the world was different, I’d want to travel and see new places, meet new people all over the world, hear new ideas. And when I came back from all this traveling, I’d run the government better. Improve the economy. Build new cities. I have lots of ideas, but you don’t want to hear about my ideas for land reform or taxation or military budgets; no man does. Though are you male or female, snake? I never looked, but I suppose it doesn’t matter.”

Olympias sighed deeply.

“If...there’s something you ought to know, snake. It’s…” And the queen fell silent for a long time, and then she whispered her words into the jar, as if afraid of being heard. “It’s hard enough some days just sleeping and eating and drinking. Sometimes I think, wouldn’t it be easier to just pick someone like you up in my arms? And just...let you have a little bite. Just a nibble, right here, right along the neck. Enough so I don’t have to worry about sleeping and eating and drinking anymore.”

Crawly winced, but an impassive snake’s face gave nothing away, and so the snake moved about along the smooth bottom of the jar, unsettled.

“Don’t worry, I would never do it. I’m not so tired of life, just this life. Besides, I can’t let him win. After all, what would happen to my son if I wasn’t here to protect him? Tossed away, lost amidst his father’s growing army of children and bastards. No, I have a reason to live, even if I don’t feel like it all the time.”

Olympias hugged the jar, resting her chin against the lip.

“Somehow I doubt you’re magic. But then again, maybe you are. Would it matter? Even a magic snake is just a little snake at the end of the day. You can’t get rid of the dreams. I can’t get rid of the dreams. I can’t get rid of the past. Even if I wanted to, I couldn’t go back to who I was. Do you feel like this sometimes too, snake?”

Crawly wiggled that tail a bit more, hoping that maybe she would understand what that meant, even though Crawly wasn’t even sure if it meant anything.

“Maybe you don’t. But at least you also know what it’s like to be named and unnamed all at once. If you wanted to ask me what that means, I...I would tell you the truth.” But Olympias said nothing.

The snake could feel the soft vibration of her breathing, of her heartbeat resonating through the walls of the jar.

Finally she sighed. “All right, and perhaps this is foolish to tell you. After all, if you’re a magical snake, sacred to the Egyptians, you probably already know this. But just in case. This...this isn’t my name. Not my real name. I’m not actually Olympias. I mean, I am. That’s what everyone calls me now. These days, no one is allowed to call me by the name that I chose for myself, Myrtale.”

Crawly stiffened, thinking about the name that had been attached to this form since those terrible times after the Fall, the one that had never really suited the demon well, and the new name that had been chosen that sufficed, lacking a better option.

“My initiate name. The name that was more me than the name that my father gave me.”

And Crawly wondered; was Crowley more of a name than the name that the Creator had bestowed? The one lost in the Fall, broken and shattered, never to be recovered. The snake wished that this physiology would allow for sighing; that was a question that could also never be answered.

“Now you know the secret, little snake. And that’s why I won’t name you, even if that astrologer tells me I should. Because you should have your own name, little snake. One that you choose for yourself. Not just one that someone changes on a whim or because he could or because he won a horse race, even if it was at Olympia.”

Crawly nodded emphatically, or as best as a snake could.

“You’re a very good listener. I would hold you if I dared, but I do not. After all, a tame viper is still a viper and I have too much work of my own to do without testing how strong your venom is. They say you can strengthen yourself against the poison with a little snake, but I don’t need any more poison in my life. Besides, all my snakes are not dangerous. Except for you.”

Crawly hissed in agreement.

“It’s too bad we can’t have a conversation properly. I wish I could know what you would have to say. Oh, but you are my guest here, where are my manners? All this time we’ve been conversing and I haven’t offered you any refreshments. Would you like some milk? A little mouse? Or a lizard? Or perhaps an offering of wine; the Dionysia is coming soon and along with it all the tragedies. You’ll come with me, won’t you? We’ll celebrate together, and then afterwards...well, we’ll see when the time comes what to do with you afterwards…”

x

[sergeant-spoons]

21. A Morning Fancy

Olympia Bird

Taglist: @thoughpoppiesblow​​ @chaosklutz​​ @wexhappyxfew​​ @50svibes​​ @tvserie-s-world​​ @adamantiumdragonfly​​ @ask-you-what-sir​​ @whovian45810​​ @brokennerdalert​​ @holdingforgeneralhugs​​ @claire-bear-1218​​ @heirsoflilith​​ @itswormtrain​​ @actualtrashpanda​​ @wtrpxrks​​​

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The house was quiet and still. It had been so all week, but the oppressive humidity of the past five days had finally broken with last night's rainstorm, and a lightness had come to the air that made the quietude seem fitting. Olympia was walking down the hall to David's room, an anthology of poems by Ella Wheeler Wilcox tucked snugly between her arm and chest, when she came upon her cousin. They exchanged the usual morning pleasantries before he commented on the lashing of the rain upon his window last night and she teased him to hurry along and not miss the last of breakfast. They parted ways with a smile and a promise to convene on the porch at teatime for tea (the customary) and chess (an additional pleasantry). Olympia checked that no one was about before slipping into her clandestine beau's room, treading the path to his bed she'd followed a dozen times before over the course of the month. August was waning but her affection for David Webster only grew by the day.

Olympia studied the tousled sheets before her, smiling fondly to see he had not made his bed nor Rose had been along to do the chore for him. She patted his pillow affectionately, picturing his pretty head still dozing where she'd left early that morning, sneaking out of his room after a late-night tryst. There was a note sticking out of a certain page in the anthology, a note that read something to the effect of Last night was fun, we ought to visit more, signed with a heart. It was a tease—a flirtation, if you would. David knew as well as Olympia did that 'last night' was not their first evening engagement of the summer, nor would it be their last. In the storm last night, reckless abandon had been the name of the game. The thunder and lightning wreaking havoc on high had not only served to make their 'activities' all the more electrifying, the noise outside allowed for a bit more volume to escape David's bed. A faint flush came upon Olympia's cheeks, nose, and neck as the particulars of their time together arose in her mind.

I miss you, she thought as if he could hear, though she'd only just seen him not ten minutes before at the breakfast table.

"'In the sweet dim light of the falling night'," Olympia whispered to herself as she laid the book of Mrs. Wilcox's poems on David's pillow, "'she found him at her side'."

"Love's coming," she whispered, pressing a soft kiss to the anthology, a musing which she meant with all her heart but just so happened to be the title of the poem she had selected for David's eyes alone. She liked the second stanza the best:

She had thought how his armor would blaze in the sun, As he rode like a prince to claim his bride: In the sweet dim light of the falling night She found him at her side.

Vacating the room and shutting the door silently behind her, Olympia turned down the hall just in time to catch Rose stepping out of the linen closet.

"Good morning!" exclaimed the mistress of the household, in quite a pleasant mood despite the impending heat of the day.

"Oh! Good morning, Miss Bird."

As Rose turned, a smile broke across her lips. There was a small red mark on her neck that she tried to hide with the collar of her blouse; Olympia noticed it but made no mention, stifling a teasing remark.

"If you would please," Rose continued, "Mrs. Withers would like to request something from you as soon as you find the time to visit the kitchen."

Olympia tipped her chin thoughtfully. "Now that is curious indeed. I'll go right now."

"Have a nice morning, ma'am."

"The same to you, Rose."

Waltzing into the kitchen a few minutes later, Olympia snatched up a pear from the fruit basket and declared, "If this has anything to do with our handsome bachelor neighbor, it's an immediate yes from me."

Mrs. Withers, forgoing a greeting in favor of a gasped reprimand, promptly stepped forward and flicked the dishtowel in her hands at her young employer. Olympia yelped, jumping aside to avoid the smattering of tap water flung her way.

"Treachery! Betrayal!"

In feigning a swoon, she fell against a second person she had not yet noticed; turning about as her arms were steadied by familiar hands, she could not help a smile to find David trying his very best not to laugh.

"Good morning to you, too."

She grinned. "What are you doing here?"

"Fetching a lunch basket for himself and your cousin," Mrs. Withers supplied, delivering the very same to David's free hand (his other, he kept resting on the small of her back). "They're off to the country club."

"Really? What for?"

David grimaced.

"Tony wants to go golfing again today."

Olympia snickered.

"Have fun."

He narrowed his eyes at her. "You think my suffering is funny."

"Maybe just a little." She laughed when he made a face, exaggerating his offense. "Wear a hat, why don't you? Antwon, too. It's going to be awfully hot today."

"Good idea." 

David stepped toward Olympia, then seemed to remember Mrs. Withers and leaned back, taking his beau's hand as if to shake. Mrs. Withers, shrewd woman that she was, noticed the glance the lovers shared and promptly returned to the sink, running the tap as if each and every dish wasn't already drying on the rack. David dropped Olympia's hand so he could hold her chin, tilting her face up for him to kiss. He pressed his lips to her forehead, then her nose, her cheek, her jaw—alas, she became impatient and seized upon his collar, taking the initiative for a proper kiss before he allowed himself the chance. He swooned as they parted, his pupils blown a little wider than before.

"Check your pillow," Olympia whispered, pressing a light kiss to his ear before leaning down and biting innocently into her pear.

David adjusted his shirt where it was tucked into his pants and wished his girlfriend an audible, platonic farewell. Mrs. Withers looked over her shoulder but did not turn fully until David had left the kitchen.

"He's a nice young man. With a nice fancy for you."

Olympia blushed becomingly. "You think so?"

"I do."

"Don't tease me like that in front of Antwon, at least."

"I wouldn't even think of it."

"So what's this about Mr. March?" Olympia asked, coming around to lean on the counter and take a bite out of her pear like she would an apple.

Mrs. Withers squinted at her. "I never mentioned Abel."

"Ah, but it is about him, whatever it is you want to ask me, isn't it?"

"Well, yes. But how-"

"You called him Abel," Olympia pointed out gleefully, "and you're wearing your second-nicest dress today."

If Olympia hadn't known better, she would have thought Mrs. Withers had begun to blush.

"I didn't think you would notice."

"Of course, I would!" the heiress exclaimed. "I love that dress! Give us a twirl, now, won't you?"

Mrs. Withers did as requested, and Olympia clapped and cheered with no shortage of mirth.

"Well, then, it's settled! We'll go pay dear Mr. March a visit. It's been too long since I've seen him out and about, though his horses are always in the field just below the hill—you know the one, I go to sit there all the time."

"Yes, I remember." Mrs. Withers untied her apron and hung it neatly on a peg by the wall. "I've got everything prepared to make supper as soon as we've returned, and there's a spread of cold cuts for lunch, and Rose can make afternoon tea better than myself, if we're not back by then-"

"Well, then, you've got it all settled," Olympia soothed, having not even thought what the absence of her honored cook might have on the household, "which means we can go—and should go—right this minute."

"Yes," Mrs. Withers agreed, "just let me fetch the basket first."

"Ooh, the basket." Olympia tried to peer inside but was foiled by Mrs. Withers' quick hand. "What did you make for the old dear?"

"Fudge," came the belated reply as they came down the hall and into the foyer. "I made him fudge."

"What kind?"

"Peanut butter." Mrs. Withers shot Olympia a look. "Will that be all?" she asked almost sarcastically, and Olympia suppressed a giggle.

"One last thing—did you write a note to go along with it?"

Mrs. Withers paused with her hand on the front door's knob.

"No."

"Then how about a poem?" Olympia looked up the main staircase, picturing her beloved library. "I could go copy one down from Atticus, or E.E. Cummings, or-"

"No, that's fine." Mrs. Withers shook her head. "We're simpler people, Abel and I are. We don't fawn over fancy words like you and your Mr. Webster there." A small smile. "I mean no offense, of course."

"None taken at all," Olympia replied, and tucked her arm into Mrs. Withers'. "Let's get going, then. It's not a long way down the hill, I know, but I can already feel in the air—it'll be too hot for a lengthy stroll after midday."

Indeed, the sunny sky on the walk down to the farm seemed to promise a hot afternoon. The sun was busily sloping towards its peak, not a cloud in sight. The day grew hotter with every passing minute—or, at least, that's what Olympia felt it was like. By the time the two women reached Mr. March's farm, they were looking over their shoulders and dreading the march back up the long hill to the Bird Estate. There was an odor in the air about the farm that displeased Olympia greatly, and though she scrunched up her nose once or twice, she did not vocalize her dislike. It was the horses, she was sure, those beautiful beasts that did not smell quite as nice as they looked. She followed Mrs. Withers to the door of the house; when no one answered their knocking, they went through the open gate toward the barn. They found Mr. March stacking hay with a large pitchfork just inside the broad doors, smartly keeping to the shade.

"Ah! Miss Withers, and Miss Bird!" A smile leaped upon the old farmer's fond face, and he set down his work at once to greet the newcomers. "What a lovely surprise!"

"Oh, please," Mrs. Withers hummed, blushing, as Mr. March kissed the back of her hand, "call me Lennon."

Mr. March's delight seemed to be growing exponentially. He offered his given name in turn to both his guests and quickly insisted on giving his hopeful beau the grand tour of the farm (although Olympia knew Mrs. Withers had visited a number of times before). Olympia, happy to grant them a walk by themselves, announced her desire to stay with the horses. She watched the pair as they strolled off, Mrs. Withers' arm tucked familiarly into Mr. March's, and a small smile crept upon her young lips.

See, I knew they would make a good pair.

While the old couple enjoyed the summer sun and their blossoming romance, Olympia withdrew into the barn. Mr. March had not yet let his two horses out to pasture yet and they stood stamping impatiently in their stalls. Olympia came up to the gate and clicked her tongue at them until they came towards her. She patted their noses and they swished their tails, contented for the time being at this new curiosity. Antwon had a messenger bag that he used for his schoolbooks; Olympia had 'borrowed' it for the morning and brought two novels and an apple each for the horses. She reached into the bag and produced the fruit now, and as the horses champed away, their large lips tickling her hand, she laughed and recited a few verses about the loveliness of man's best steed.

"That's some nice poetry, ma'am."

Olympia turned and found Jett Fisher, her groundskeeper (who they called Fish), coming into the barn. Her surprise must have been evident on her face, for he tipped his cap at her and told her often came down here to help Mr. March with the more strenuous tasks on the farm.

"He's not as spry as he once was," Fish said, then paused, an apple of his own raised halfway to his mouth. "I only come once I'm done with all I've got to do on the estate, Miss Bird," he added hurriedly, and Olympia blushed.

"Oh- oh, yes, of course."

It hadn't occurred to her that her staff did things beyond their duties on the estate, and her cheeks began to color as she realizes her ignorance. Fish offered her a small smile, forgiving, and she stepped up to take his arm.

"You said you come here often?"

"Yes'm."

"Could you give me a tour, then?"

"Gladly."

"Wonderful. Oh, but Fish-" Olympia tried and failed not to let her smile become a smirk. "Let's try to keep out of sight of Mr. March and Mrs. Withers."

Fish chuckled. "I don't think they'd notice us even if we came face-to-face, ma'am."

"They are in love, aren't they?"

Fish shrugged. "Seems like it to me."

"And also to me." 

Satisfied, Olympia nodded toward the open doors, where strands of hay lay spilt on the ground by the warm breeze.

"Shall we?"

Fish led her out the door of the barn, and for the next half-hour, they walked and talked their way across the farm. They saw the pasture and discovered a wild blueberry patch growing over the westernmost fence. As they looped back around to the house, Olympia looked at Fish thoughtfully but did not speak her mind until he suggested she do so.

"I was only thinking," she began, "that we don't get out much, do we? The whole staff, I mean, all of us together."

Fish looked like he wanted to make a correction but swallowed it back and agreed. "Yes'm, that's true."

"Well, we should. How about we go out on the town? My treat! We'll have lunch, you and I and Mrs. Withers and Rose and Mr. Carlisle and Mr. Sullivan. And the boys! If they're not off to Harvard by the time we find a good day."

Fish looked surprised, and Olympia was about to ask why when he cleared his throat and replied, "That sounds lovely, ma'am. I'm sure the rest of the staff would be happy to come along."

"Then it's settled!" She clapped happily, bringing one hand across herself to meet the one tucked around Fish's arm. "We'll make a day of it. Someday. Soon."

"Ah, yes. Soon."

There seemed to be a hint of disbelief in the groundskeeper's voice, as if he was hesitant to believe her plan was more than a passing fancy, but Olympia thought nothing of it. She meant it, and that was all that mattered. Of course, he would believe her on the undetermined day she followed through, for he would be along for the ride.

"There you are!" Olympia exclaimed as they came up to the porch and found Mr. March and Mrs. Withers sitting on matching rocking chairs, sipping iced tea from tall glasses. "My, oh my, isn't it hot out today?"

Mr. March hopped up at once. "Please, sit here in the shade, Miss Bird."

"Oh, thank you, but I should really be going soon. I have... studying to do. The newest magazines came in and I really must get through them before the end of the day, or Antwon will get impatient with me. He likes to discuss them, see, and he says that this month, there's a particularly interesting piece on a recent archaeological dig in Iran from Howard University..."

Mr. March returned to his seat, nodding just as slowly as he sat. As Mrs. Withers leaned over to whisper something to him, adjusting the glass in her hand, Olympia saw her fingerprints left by the humidity and hummed discontentedly.

"I wish there was a way to get back up the hill in the shade..."

The heiress turned and pouted at the road sloping up and up towards the Bird Estate.

"I'd be right pleased to take you back in my cart, miss, if you'd only give me a minute to hitch it up," offered Mr. March, rising yet again, and Olympia did not catch the disappointed look on Mrs. Withers' face until she'd already agreed.

"On second thought!" she exclaimed, taking the old farmer by the sleeve and turning him back toward the porch. "Fish and I were thinking of seeing the pond in the glade just down the road. As I recall, the way is mostly shaded..?"

"Ah, yes-"

"Then stay, Mr. March-"

"Please, call me Abel."

"-and we will see you in, say, an hour's time?"

"Sounds just fine to me," Mr. March replied meekly, seeming dazed by all the changing of decisions, whereas Mrs. Withers was used to this sort of wavering from the mistress of the house and did not bat an eye.

"Splendid!"

Olympia tugged Fish along, ignoring his grumblings at the hold-up—"The flowers will wilt in this heat if I don't water them soon."—and waved cheerfully to the ever-shrewd Mrs. Withers, who was calmly sipping on her iced tea and looking at Olympia like no plot or scheme of hers had ever been more obvious.

"Leave them be," Olympia scolded Fish in a low voice when he looked unamusedly over his shoulder. "They'll be lost in conversation-"

"And each other's eyes."

"-before they even know it."

"So?"

"So," she pressed, "they will fall in love!"

Fish sighed and let her lead him onto the side of the road, keeping closest to the motorway in the off chance an automobile came racing erroneously down the road.

"I suppose you're right."

"I often am."

Fish just shook his head and pretended his smile resulted from the sunshine and not the well-intentioned decisiveness of the young woman at his side.

"Often... Right."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[urnooboo]

the whole thing made me emotional asf but what really got me was lee escorting his daughter down the aisle 😭😭IT REALLY MAKES ME WANNA CRY CUZ I CAN NOW PLACE THEM BESIDE PHOTOS OF WHEN JUNE WAS A TODDLER AND WHEN LEE WAS CARRYING HER AND AHHGHHGHJHJSDF!!!

also mommy olympia was the officiant!!! friday was the sim of honor and gave a speech!! (and kind of cried a bit after like come on imagine your dear older sister getting married) and rio got to be the flower buddy!!

also these two klutzes bonked during the kiss HAHAHSDHASD

also i was talking to my friend throughout this whole thing and she said that june's wedding dress resembles angela's (the founding sim) dress AND LIKE YEAH YOU'RE RIGHT IT DOES god my bestie is such a queen for noticing that IT'S SO CUTE CUZ THEYRE BOTH ARTISTS

i think this wedding is so super duper cute, like it's on par with benny and edward's wedding from gen 1

[sabineelectricheart]

Of the Sun and the Sea

Summary: He loved her then and he loves her now.

Rating: T - Suitable for teens, 13 years and older, with some violence, minor coarse language, and minor suggestive adult themes.

Non-explicit depiction of suicide. Reader discretion is highly advised.

Words: 2100

Notes: ...Happy birthday?

It had not been easy to let go of the only thing in his life that gave him hope.

It was not easy to know his love was doomed from the very moment he could comprehend damnation. Falling in love was a lost fight, and falling out of it seems equally bound to a certain fate. Neither of them is poised to be particularly pleasant experiences.

He had been struggling for many years now.

Riku had once entertained the idea of living as recklessly as possible, after his foster father passed away, since he already knew his ending, but as it turned out, it was not in his nature to be that way. He is a coward, just too cowardly to follow through with his desires, to be deserving of freedom.

She knows of that. The free bird is the one who can see the cage clearly.

He kept to himself mostly, was quiet and reserved unless there was a reason not to be, and there often was not anything that tempted him that way. He lived each day isolated from his peers, practicing his craft and terrorizing the lower classes with his presence alone.

The scion of the Blue began his preparations for the leadership early on. It was an inescapable fate, there was no-one else apt to challenge that position, and so his foster family merely concluded it would be best to begin immediately their trimming work.

He often wondered if he had met Olympia first, while he was still an innocent child swimming on the seas, had Lord Douma not been so strict about who could see and talk to the Maiden of the White, if then he could have rewritten his story. However, as he eventually came to realise, fate was locked in too tightly.

Despite his steady descent into unconditional love for her, he still could not see a fork in the road, nor could he turn around and change the past. Instead, he felt guilt weighing on him every time he looked at she, and no matter how far he pushed it down, it would always be there, taunting him. With every smile that shone his way, he could not help but think of the time she was wasting on him, a man who could not give her what she desperately needed, the salvation her and the island demanded.

Olympia needed a husband and a prolific family, and he could give her neither. Each day she wasted on him is one less day on her deadline, and one more day the island would suffer the danger of going without the sun.

It seemed unfair to subject her to the suffering he knew he would cause her, when he knew he could have prevented it. Had he not spoken to Olympia after denying her the name of the Batsu dancer, had he not let his feelings grow, he could have saved her, but it was not in the cards for Riku to save anyone, not even himself, not even her. Besides, he soon found out, it was fruitless to deny her, to deny himself the happiness she brought, he did not have that kind of strength.

At the beginning of their relationship, it was safe to say both Olympia and Riku were hesitant. She knew he was a bit entitled and much too proud of the position that he occupied in society, not to mention the sort of character that seemed to wallow in the pain of the world, but her fascination with his talent could not be helped.

He was cautious around her, which made it feel like she also had something to be cautious about. The rocky start was quickly overturned when she both realised there was nothing to be frightened of in each other.

Riku was adamant in concealing the truths about his parentage and the obligations he had as the future leader of the Blue. He concealed their relationship and his feelings for her, too. He just did not want to have his duty and his desire to collapse on themselves, he did not want to remember that he might have to choose.

He fooled himself in thinking he did not have to do it anymore. Olympia was a woman of the White, she could pick any man to be her husband, and her demands were prioritized over the traditions of the island. It had seemed almost as a lifeline out of his predicament, a reason why he could desire and have it.

What he did not know then was that he fell in too deep.

It happened quickly for Olympia, like waking up one morning and just knowing, as if it came to her in a dream. She had fallen for Riku, it was a fact. After that morning, she had never looked at him the same. He seemed to be a beacon in the darkness that could not be dimmed. A beacon in her lonely darkness. The rush of being near him was too much sometimes, the smile that he brought to her lips seemed too much for her muscles to convey.

Falling in love was nothing like how she had expected it to be, how her mother tried conveying it was. She did not bother trying to understand it or explain it. She was of the firm belief that no-one’s experience of love was the same, and therefore trying to explain it to someone would only sound wrong. Much like a fingerprint, love left its own unique mark on every single person, that could never be communicated to anyone else in a way where it could be understood. It was simply impossible, and she were quite content with it. As long as Riku loved her, she did not need an explanation for anything.

Riku did love Olympia. He was not sure if he had fallen before or after she had, as he was sure the emotion was only spoken long after they had both admitted it to themselves. He only knew that he’d fallen in love with her, which made the world seem brighter and his path widen with possibility. It was only later that he would realise it was simply a distorted image.

The days and weeks that followed their confessions of love seemed sped up, like some sadist was fast forwarding through the good parts to get to the pain. The days ran together, and after a while it seemed like every happy moment that they spent together were all one and the same.

Before he noticed, he had cast out his colour, he had exiled himself underground, and he had met Kaina, got to know him much too intimately to ignore his part on the human tragedy around him. He could be happy there, living a simple, poor life with little expectations, as long as he had her, his own private little ray of sunshine, but he could not shirk his duties anymore. He knew he could not hide his reasons from her, nor could he ask her to wait, so he did the only thing he could think of doing, and that was to let her go.

It seemed unfair that their time was so short-lived, that they only received stolen moments in a life that did not belong to him. All he had now, were treasured memories.

It was raining that day, and Riku was not ignorant of how fitting it was. He took Olympia to the bathhouse garden that evening, sure there would be no one else there, as promised by the trusted staff, they hoped that he would end her search that same evening. In a way, that is what he did.

The cold chill of the underground picked up with the overcast day on the surface, and tiny drops of mist seeped through the rock and fell softly on their heads. He did not care that it seeped through his clothes and onto his skin, numbing him, he only cared that she would not be there to provide warmth when it was over.

He did not take your hand to ease the pain, he did not look at her with understanding eyes to show that it hurt him too, he did not give her any reason to think that this was not what needed to be done.

He wondered if she knew, if she knew that it hurt him just as much to let her go as it did her. The torment behind her eyes that night he would never forget, nor would he want to. It kept him from steering away from his honourable mission as the leader of the Blue. After he became uncomfortably aware of the pain he could cause, he knew he could not remain a proud member of the Blue, he could not remain the staunch traditionalist that he was raised to be. He had to bring forth change to this island, he had to recover his dignity through repentance. He needed to die, be it soon or late, knowing he had not let her down completely.

When he watched she stumble away that night, losing your footing on the slippery cobble and fighting your way through the weather across the Moon Clock Square and up out to the surface, he tilted his head to the ceiling of their cave.

His eyes were shut tight, trying to keep in what wanted to be released. He let the water paint him and change his exterior to resemble more of his interior. He still loves her, and he had convinced himself that he did what he did because he loved her. Maybe there was some truth to that, because even at the end he could see no other way it could have gone.

A month passed and no semblance of the Maiden of the White anywhere in the island. People feared she was ill, that she would die and take the sun away with her. Kuroba of the Black took over the mail box and life continued, tense but normal, for many weeks.

Until they heard from her again. She was to be wed with Akaza of the Red by next full moon.

Riku wept, but he insisted on his path. He even attended the wedding, he behaved like the proud son of the Blue that he fought so hard, that he sacrificed so much to be. He had the chance to see Olympia as a bride, but refused to speak with her, communicating his well-wishes to his old friend alone.

The match was fruitful, and two girls of the White were born in quick succession, almost in the same year. Their mother, however, paid a high price for this, as depression and disease took over the formerly vivacious girl. Summers were cold and winters were long on these years, as if Lady Amaterasu grieved with her.

Soon, Olympia shrivelled and passed away, soon after her oldest daughter’s seventh birthday. It had been just enough time to teach the girl enough of the role she would play in the future.

The widower had been inconsolable, but he remained firm on his duties. He reared the girls with devoted care and, when time came, devolved them to the island where they belonged.

Riku had been sad to see them go. He had never spoke with them, not even once, but he enjoyed seeing them around town. It reminded him of happier times.

Finally, almost thirty years after he met Olympia, after marrying and having a family of his own, after finally abolishing the laws regarding the preservation of colour castes, after a long reign as leader, Riku felt as if his mission had finally been achieved. His only wish is that the woman of the White could see what he had built for her. He is ready to surrender himself to the waves and let them take him to where he needs.

He is tired. He loved her then and he loves her now, as he fell to the cold sands of the beach by stormy seas. He ached with the burden of emotional and physical pain.

It was felicitous that his emotions took their toll now, when he was about to take his final breaths. He thought of nothing but her and her face. He wished she was with him so that he was able to say goodbye to her, so that he could say he was sorry. The more he lost breath, the more the surface of the water seemed to resemble the sky and its stars and how they looked that night.

He loves her.

*_*_*_*_*

Olympia Soirée Masterlist

[thesilverdreamer]

I was looking at which significant trainers from gen 8-back are absent from masters ex out of curiosity. Some are kind of understandable, cause the characters are a bit dull, some I know why they aren't in, because they're old men and women and Dena doesn't think they'll sell, but a few are kinda baffling.

Oldest major trainer by original appearance: Wattson, the Electric-type Gym Leader from the original release of Ruby and Sapphire. Old man, or at least middle-aged man.

Followed up by the folks from Emerald, Frontier brains Greta, Tucker, Spenser, Brandon, and Anabel. Considering Noland and Lucy have both gotten in, I don't think any of these guys are really off the table. I wonder if Noland got in because of his anime role, with his Articuno. Brandon I'm a little surprised by his absence. And Anabel, I'm still wondering why she isn't in, either as a Salon Maiden or her gen 7 appearance.

Juan, the 8th gym leader in Emerald, he's a bit obscure I think.

From gen iv there's Byron, scruffy old man, and the Frontier brains Dahlia and Argenta.

Gen V, Drayden!! Realizing he wasn't in was what made me start looking, he's not exactly obscure and we know TPC hasn't forgotten about his existence. Drayden and Druddigon, there, easy.

Gen VI, the psychic type gym leader Olympia, and here's the really baffling one: Morgan, the Battle Chatelaine, the only Chatelaine not in. Though from her battle quotes she doesn't seem to be the most pleasant person.

Gen VII, the only absence I noticed was Ilima. You know Ilima, right? The guy, with the thing--first trial captain for Normal types. Usually the normal type experts have something to help them stand out, but man Ilima is just bland.

Gen VIII, rounding off, there's Kabu which is a little upsetting, Mustard which is sad to me personally, and Opal which is a fucking travesty. Opal was the highlight of the Galar gyms. There's also the DLC characters Peony, Klara, and Avery. Well, not missing much with the last two, although they could be a matched pair with Galarian Slowbro and Slowking.

[iandilocksmith]

How 24-Hour Locksmiths in Olympia Keep Clients Satisfied?

When you're in a lock-related jam, it's good to know that 24-hour locksmiths in Olympia, WA, have special ways to make sure you're happy with their services. In this blog, we'll talk about the five approaches these locksmiths use to keep clients satisfied, ensuring you feel secure and content with their help.

Being Always Available

One key approach is being available 24/7. No matter the time, day or night, locksmith Olympia WA is ready to help you out. This means you can get assistance when you need it the most, providing a sense of security.

Fast and Efficient Service

Another important way they make clients happy is by working quickly and efficiently. When you're in a hurry or facing an emergency, these locksmiths don't waste time. They get the job done fast so that you can go back to your day worry-free.

Clear and Fair Pricing

These locksmiths believe in being upfront about how much their services cost. They provide clear and fair pricing, so you know what to expect. This transparency helps build trust, making clients feel comfortable with the locksmith's honesty.

Friendly and Respectful Interaction

Interacting with a locksmith can be stressful, especially in an emergency. But the locksmiths in Olympia make sure to be friendly and respectful. They understand your situation and strive to make the experience as pleasant as possible, even during challenging times.

Quality Workmanship and Guarantees

The locksmiths in Olympia take pride in their work. They ensure that the job is done right the first time. Moreover, they often provide guarantees for their services, assuring clients that they stand behind their work and are committed to making things right if any issues arise.

The 24-hour locksmiths in Olympia, WA, have mastered five key approaches to keep clients satisfied. By being available around the clock, providing fast and efficient service, offering clear pricing, maintaining friendly interactions, and delivering quality workmanship, these locksmiths strive to make your experience as stress-free and satisfying as possible. The next time you find yourself in need of locksmith services in Olympia, you can count on these professionals to not only meet your expectations but exceed them.

[evilasiangenius]

“Mother, I have something for you from the oracle.”

“Oh? Did Delphi write back, Alexander?”

“No, not that one, uh. The local one, Nectanebo.”

“What does he want?”

“He didn’t want anything, but he wanted me to bring you this…” And carefully, Alexander reached up to his left shoulder. Before he could try to coax Crawly out, the serpent slipped the tight grip of the fibula and into the boy’s hands.

“Alexander! Drop that, vipers are dangerous!” Olympias said sharply.

“No, it’s all right, mother. Really, it’s safe. This is a sacred snake from Egypt that shouldn’t be seen by anyone other than the two of us. That’s what Nectanebo said. It won’t harm us, he promised.”

Crawly nodded in agreement, curling up into a cosy little knot, trying to show how safe and completely not dangerous this deadly venomous, demonous serpent was.

“Oh…” Olympias’ mouth closed in a tight line and though she still watched Crawly with suspicion, she made no movement at all, holding very still. “Alexander, please put it in the jar over here, a snake won’t be happy if it’s not warm.”

“Yes, mother.” And Crawly was suddenly surrounded by the high sides of a ceramic vessel, warm from where it sat on the floor. The thick ceramic radiated warmth, and Crawly wondered what it was, before remembering that this room must have been above the oven of a kitchen downstairs.

“Why did he send me something like this?” Skeptical, the queen looked at the golden-eyed serpent who stared back with unblinking eyes, coiling and uncoiling, settling into a comfortable position. The inside of the deep pot was slick with a smooth ceramic slip, and the pleasant warmth and coziness of the heated vessel made Crawly drowsy. The snake yawned, settling down, listening to the humans talk.

“I don’t know, but Nectanebo said it was a gift, and that it would help ward off bad dreams.”

“I see. I wonder what he wants. I suppose I should thank him for the thoughtfulness, though I should think that he should have sent his own servant with this and not made you into some sort of messenger boy. If it wasn’t a sacred snake not meant for the eyes of others, I would say that he had insulted us. Make sure not to touch the snake. We shall leave it in the jar.”

“Yes, mother.”

“Promise me, Alexander. You’re to leave this snake alone, do you understand? It might be a tame snake but it’s still a viper, and we don’t know how dangerous it might be.”

“Yes, mother.” Alexander pouted, but acquiesced.

“Tell me, did Nectanebo say if it had a name? I think magic serpents are supposed to have names, in order to better command them.”

“He said the name, but I didn’t hear him clearly,” Alexander sounded dismayed.

“Be more attentive in the future,” Olympias said sternly.

“Yes, mother,” Alexander said, dismayed.

“Did he say if the name mattered?”

“He said the name doesn’t matter. He said that whoever had it could name it whatever they wanted.”

“I see. Then you and I have something in common, snake,” Olympias said to Crawly, as she put a perforated lid over the jar.

Sudden darkness, pierced by the faint stars of light seeping through the perforations. The humans continued their conversation, but it was hard to hear through the vessel and the warmth was very pleasant and it was very nice to not worry about things for the time being and just exist, thinking snakey thoughts, though Crawly noticed that the jar was too tall to slither out of and the walls were too steep and slippery to climb up.

“Mussst be some clever way of keeping snakessss in one place,” Crawly yawned, hissing quietly. “Very clever indeed, humansss. That’ssss going to be a problem, but a problem for Future Crawly…”

x