#our library is one train ride away

[kebriones]

Our school's library:

The rest of the school:

We have our priorities straight in this place.

[tenseoyong]

Hi can you do Aemond x betrothed reader at the dinner scene he’s jealous of jace and reader dancing?

Aemond would scarcely admit he hadn’t expected to become so quickly enamored by his sweet tongued, kind-eyed, gentle handed betrothal. Honestly speaking, Aemond had assumed his arranged marriage would follow a similar pattern as his parents’ and siblings’—loveless and constant avoidance—he was sure that the lovely Lady that had arrived at court would have little interest in the Scarred Prince beyond the gain of gold and the title of Princess.

Yet, Aemond was surprised to find a less than timid woman, one who did not shy away from his cold gaze, nor did she pity or fear his childhood maiming.

Yes, the Prince had grown rather fond of the unusual Lady. Often Aemond spend hours with her, hidden from prying eyes by the many shelves of books of the Keep’s library.

She listened to him attentively—not just keeping up appearances of a doting and obedient wife-to-be—no, she actually enjoyed Aemond’s company; hanging off his every word as he recounted his daily training, or when he told of the history of dragons, even dared to attempt to teach her a word or two in High Valyrian. In turn, she spun tales of her home, how her brothers bickered as children, and how she feared riding a horse just as one would fear facing a dragon.

Aemond would grow to love his Lady Wife—that much he was sure of—and he had dared to hope that she would return that love ten fold.

She had all but extinguished the dragon’s fire that lived in him.

Yet, the moment his darling nephew, Jacaerys, had stepped forward—folllowing his sweet sister Heleana’s speech of marital neglect—and requested she accompany him in dance, Aemond’s mind filled with vivid images of Jacaerys burned to a crisp, curtesy of Vhagar’s breath.

To see her, in the arms of his bastard nephew as she politely accepted his dance proposal, turned his stomach to stone.

Aemond believes he knew true anger. He’d spent a good portion of his childhood angry—angry at his father, and his nephews, and at his dragon-less status. Though, as violet eyes watched his Lady and Jacaerys is dance, Aemond knew then he’d never truly experienced anger—until this moment.

It burned inside him hotter than dragon’s fire, boiling his blood and scalding his heart.

And as his nephew spun his betrothed about the empty corner of the room, Aemond could bare to witness it no more.

The whole room came to a screeching halt as Aemond slammed his fist into the table as he rose to stand tall, and mockingly held his cup in the air, “I’d like to toast to my nephews—Jace, Luke…Joffrey—each of them handsome, wise, brave…” He paused, turning to stare directly at the hand Jace had placed to the small of his Lady’s back. “And Strong.”

Not to give up the game, Jace didn’t release his partner, only twirling the pair until Jace was between his uncle and his intended before demanding, “I dare you to say that again!”

“Why?” Aemond tsked, rounding the table and taking several calculated steps towards the stationary duo. “T’was only a compliment—I would extend my toast to my beloved betrothed, I shall pray to the Gods that they make our sons as Strong as their cousins.”

The fury was evident enough on young Jace’s face, all while the quiet satisfaction of getting under his skin flooded Aemond’s.

Though, the satisfaction didn’t last nearly as long as he’d hoped—for as soon as Jacaerys fixed Aemond with a mischievous look and devious smile, Jace reestablished his hold on his uncle’s bride-to-be, and taunted, “If only there were such a way to ensure your sons’ strength, perhaps I’ll be of some help, if the Lady wouldn’t mind me—“

All at once, Aemond closed what little space remained between him and the dancing pair, and curled his fingers into his nephew’s neck like a claw, snatching the younger boy up much like a kitten at its scruff, “You’ll remove your hands from my Wife.”

“You misspoke, Uncle.” Jacaerys smirked, ignoring Aemond’s seething rage. “The Lady is not yet your wife, is she? I believe that gives her leave to do as she pleases, while she can.”

“I care not for the beliefs of a bastard,” Aemond’s words dripped with venom. “She is to be my bride—since you are so keen on pretending to be of your status—you should be aware that you are greatly overstepping.”

Jacaerys only cocked an eyebrow—a silent challenge—before his fingers curled into your side and what little room between your bodies had been erased, “Oh? Have I overstepped—“

“You will remove your hand,” Aemond was through playing this game, he did break the eye contact he held with his nephew, yet he could still see the obvious annoyance and displeasure growing on your sweet face. Aemond’s hand fluttered above the dagger strapped at his hip. “Or I shall remove it for you.”

The threat lingered in the air momentarily before, much to anyone’s surprise, the Lady squirmed out of Jacaerys’ hold and took her rightful place at Aemond’s right and placed a gentle on Aemond’s tensed arm.

“My Love,” She all but cooed at the furious dragon she would soon claim as a husband. “Let us not ruin the single night your father has requested with his family—I am unharmed and unbothered—let us not have further bloodshed between kin.”

Aemond won’t not soon let go of his hatred for his bastard nephews, but as his Lady-to-be stood by his side and looked upon him with such care and affection Aemond would afford her this kindness.

He released his blade, and his grip on Jacaerys’ neck—though he paused a moment to admire the half-moon shaped nail marks he’d left in his stead—before collecting his betrothed and whisking them both from the disastrous dinner, desiring nothing more than to be hidden away with his Lady love where they belonged.

Soon after, as the servant folks spread tales of the exciting night—a song would emerge—that of a Lady, who had managed to tame the dragon.

[masterlist]

@moonchildrenandflowercrowns

[soda-sparkss]

HOME-BOUND

Its me again, hi <3 I've made yet another Welcome Home Au called Home- Bound where You're on a Train to Escape Your Mundane Life. Every friendly neighbor has their own cart on the train, with Julie's being the first one you're seated at and Wally's being the conductor car. Make your way through this whimsical little train ride that seems to last for Eternity! Where are you headed? Who knows! Trying to Escape the train once you're on will result in a proper Punishment. If you get off before the train Stops, there will be no moving from the spot that you landed on. Any physical or emotional violence caused to the train will result in consequences varying in severity depending on how much damage you've done. Please do Remember that the train is your Home the train is your Home the train is your Home the train is your Home the train is your H Oh, and one more thing! Don't Forget Your Ticket.

Cars are in order starting from the back. Sleeping/Boarding Car Jullie's Car Poppy's Car Sally's Car Howdy's Car Frank's Car Eddie's Car Barnaby's Car Wally's Car/Conductor Car

First off, We have our Humble Conductor, Wally Darling!

Being at the front of the Train, Wally has many responsibilities as a Conductor. Once you board the Train, he will come back to the Boarding Car to punch your Ticket. It is Imperative that you have it, lest you be sent right back to the station!

Second up is Barnaby B Beagle! Wally's very very very close "Friend".

In this lovely dog's car, he can be found cracking so many fun jokes! Heck, he has an entire book full of Comedy skits from passengers who were Fortunate enough to make it up to his car all the way from the Boarding car! Though, if you want to leave, you'll have to give him another skit to add to his book!

Next up is the darling Mailman, Eddie Dear!

This dearest mailman send out all the letters and Tickets to future Residents of the Home Bound Express. He's quite the workaholic, especially during the nighttime hours! If you happen to make it to his car, be in for a load of sorting letters, snacks, and lovely stories about all of his travels on the Train! Poor guy is a afraid of snails too..

Next up is the trains Librarian, Frank Frankly!

If you enter his car, you'll be greeted with books up the Wazoo! He will insist you look at any one that interests you. The books are written by him and consist an encyclopedia of facts about every existing bug on the planet. Not one bug left out! Unfortunately, if you want to leave, you'll have to take a quiz. Find a book about a specific bug he tells you about, read through it, and then tell him what you learned. Careful not to let the bookflies(book butterflies!) distract you! After you tell Frank the facts you learned, you have to navigate your way through a maze in the garden behind his library. Don't worry, the bugs will guide you!

Next up is the 'local' Grocer, Howdy Pillar!

Who can resist a Pillar who advertises his wares so well? He has everything from the little doodads to wild thingamajigs! Careful you don't get lost in the maze of his stock. If you want to leave, however, you must buy something or solve a little riddle of his!

Next up is the ONE AND ONLY!! Sally Starlet!

This Star is always putting on a Show!(With sleep and snack breaks, of course.) Her seemingly endless act will have you wrapped up in a world completely different from your own! Her whips and twirls will thread a story right before your very eyes! It's Almost Impossible to Look Away!! Also, nighttime shows are provided for people with insomnia, headphones are provided for those with sensory issues, plushies and hand santizer are provided for people with anxieties or obsessive compulsions.

And following right behind her is Poppy Partridge!

Who doesn't want an absolute sweetheart to take them under her wing and provide a comfortable place to Relax! Treats are baked for anyone who wants one! Beanbag chairs cots, futons, and a plethora of cushions are provided, as well as DvD players and a TV for Entertainment. Careful, too many sweets from this lovely Partridge will send you into a Deep Sleep.

Then we have the lovely Julie Joyful!

Julie is so playful! If you step foot into her car, you're in for a whole day full of fun games like Tag, Tic Tac Toe, and Hide and Seek! Hide and Seek is her favorite game! Though I can't say the same for her victims Passengers.

And then the Train himself, Home!

While Home is the train, pictured above is his physical manifestation. If he doesn't have a cup of tea, he'll probably be smoking Candy Cloud, which is their form of tobacco.

And Last but not Least, You!

That's right, You! YOu reading this right now! Go ahead and put yourself in the au, draw yourself interacting with the neighbors! You can use this base, I'll post a blank version soon enough! A HUGE huge thank you to @mumimoondrops and @severalbonez for helping me with designs and the story! Mumi is a co-owner of the au. Notes and Disclaimers: Disclaimer: I do not own the characters in Welcome Home. They all belong to @partycoffin. And while two people have already made train conductor au's I wanted to make my own story and designs for the cast! Design Inspirations: @chez-cinnamon, @clownsuu Tags: @3amclothesmonster, @dottyorange, @doggwwoggy23, @kennethmoop, @snowshinefivez5, @larzuen, @nyx-mrbones-2360, @vixxproductions, @sedittedice, @mumimoondrops, @ari-jay, @strugglebugglemoth, @wheatlover, @unpleasantbread, @mockhound, @purplefoxy14, and @anonymous-paperbag

[age-of-play-i-say]

Sentence prompts, huh? Well, never let it be said that I'm not predictable...

"Oh sweetie - if you can't hold it anymore, just do your tinkles on teddy..."

-🐻⚡️

CG and potty-training Little are heading home from what was supposed to be a quick Saturday afternoon errand run: dropping things at the library, stopping by the grocery store, and then picking up some Thai food for tonight. Because they had meant to be out for 90 minutes, 2 hours tops, CG allowed Little to wear big kid undies, just this once! Little was so excited, they have yet to be out of the house with no padding since the potty training started! This will be their first test, and they're determined to prove themselves as a big kid. CG even asked them at the restaurant if they needed to go. Little knew home was a 10 minute car ride away, so they said no. They wanted CG to have no excuse to diaper them up for every outing like this. Unfortunately, the universe has other plans, and the two of them get stuck behind a car accident caused by some serious surprise road construction. No escape routes, no turn offs, no diapers, let's go.

CG: Whoa, what's going on up here? This wasn't here on our way down to the store.

Little: looks scary daddy!! *clutches teddy tightly* shiny stuff all over da road. . .

CG: Pieces of the car, yeah. Wow, looks like the clean-up crew just got here. We're gonna be sitting for awhile, Baby. Here, why don't you enjoy your bubble tea and watch a little Emperor's New Groove on Daddy's phone?

Little: really Daddy?? *bouncing in their booster seat*

CG: Yes, you've been so good for me and I don't want the accident to scare you. Go to your happy place, sweetie, I’ll call you back when we're ready to move.

10 minutes later:

Little: drinkie all gone Daddy! *wiggling with teddy* we almos goin home??

CG: Not yet, Baby. Looks like it's pretty complicated up there. Good job with your drink! Are you doing okay with your movie?

Little: *wiggling faster* hh- mm-hmm! how much longer till home??

CG: I don't know yet, Baby. Be patient for Daddy, okay?

10 minutes later:

CG: I know it's not fun, Baby, but it's gonna be okay, looks like the crew is about halfway done with their work. Can you keep being good for Daddy?

Little: umm!! wanna be good, wanna be big kid!! but um!! *hides face in teddy and plunges one hand down to hold tight against their baby parts, sniffling*

CG: Oh no! Does my sweet Baby need to make tinkles? And you were doing so well with your big kid undies, too!

Little: *crying and potty dancing in their seat with their hand on their undies* no fair!!!! ‘s no fair, Daddy, am a big kid!!! b-but needa make tinkles!! emerg-*hiccups, begins to wail* emergency!!

CG: Oh Sweetie, - if you can't hold it anymore, let's just do your tinkles on Teddy. Here, I’ll take him. Lift up your tush off the seat. Shhhh, it's okay, we’ll wash him at home.

Little: ahh! hhh teddy feels good, Daddy!! *wiggling and sniffling* woulda m-made it!! stupid cars!! stupidt road!! *crying louder again*

CG: I know it, Baby. This won't count against you for future big kid clothes, okay? For now, we gotta get those tinkles out before they start hurting. Come on, sweetie, you can do it. Can you show Daddy how you’d make peepee in your big kid potty at home?

Little: y-ye Daddy *reaches out to cling to Daddy's hand and sniffles once more before a loud hissing noise fills the car* ahhhh - m-makin peepee Daddy!! mmm teddy all wet!

Daddy: There we go, good Baby! That's Daddy's good, sweet Baby. Oh, that sounds like it feels good, sweetie. Are you feeling better?

Little: almos done peepee Daddy feels so good! *stream finally slows to a trickle and then stops while Baby shivers* hhhah all done tinkies!!

Daddy: And it looks like we’re moving again! Good job, Baby! Tell you what. You're right, that wasn't fair, and you didn't make a mess in your carseat. We’re calling this a success!

Little: really?? thank Daddy!! *bouncing on Teddy until Teddy squelches, then a little whimper*

Daddy: We’ll be home in 10 minutes now, Baby, but I have a question for you. Big kids get to choose, so when we get home, do you want to be cleaned up and keep wearing big kid undies? Or do you want soft, cozy protection after all of that? Keep in mind you won't have Teddy to snuggle for a few hours while I clean him up.

Little: ohh umm *hides face in hands* wan diapies Daddy, please!

CG: Of course, sweetie. You can wear your diapers, Daddy understands.

[farrahda5hywrites]

Superposition

Pairing: Alina Starkov(a) x Grisha!Reader, Past!Darklina, Implied!Unrequited Aleksander Morozov(a) x Alina Starkov(a) x Reader

Summary: After the Darkling’s death, you seek to avenge him, but instead you confront some repress emotions.

Warning: It’s all angsty, baby. Vague-ish Spoilers for Season 2, Me, making shit up because I can. 

Taggies: @marvelmusing (Sorry to do this to you.)

“Very convenient of you to leave me out of your plans, Alina.” You appear in the middle of her bedroom as she removes her crown from her head.

She says your name gently, but you swear there’s a hint of malice or perhaps grief.

“You were missing.” She sits down still facing away from you. As you prepare to summon shadows to choke her, she is on her feet in the same stance.

“How?” She gasps, finally looking you in the eye. She hesitates to attack, and you are already close to her, grabbing her by the neck and tossing her against the wall. You are far from surprised that she has his shadows. She was his Sun Summoner, his Alina, his favorite. You were and still are just one of his shadows in the darkness.

“You killed him, and you didn’t even let me say goodbye.” You hiss. “It’s the least you could have done for me.”

“He was a monster.” She wiggle out of your hold, and she attacks you almost knocking you on your feet.

“He was our only hope, and now you’re helping the Royal family.”

“I’m doing the right thing for Grisha.”

“You’re misguided, and you’re helping the enemy.”

“Nikolai is different!”

“Isn’t that great for you? But what about everyone else? The other orphans, the other Grisha who have been tortured for decades under his family rule. You killed their hope! Some of our friends and allies are missing. Or should I say your former friends.”

She grabs you, pinning you on the ground, putting a hidden dagger to your neck. Her hair is disheveled, and you remember the first time she bested you during your training at the Little Palace. You were excited for her finally embracing her powers. Both of you were relatively new to embracing both of your powers, and while you stayed somewhat close and friendly, it was clear you somehow were eclipsed by both the General and Alina.

“You only listen to what you want to believe.” You mumble. “You’re so afraid of being a tool, but you let anyone use you. I shouldn’t have helped you. I wouldn’t have helped.”

You wrap your legs around her, and you roll her over pinning her down. The dagger has left her hand a long time ago, but you’ve just noticed, not to mention she hasn’t screamed for help. She wiggles a hand free and reaches up to touch your cheek. 

Your heart flutters remembering the small talks in the library you had and the fruit you shared during the few walks you took together between Alina learning to ride a horse. The General...he...always had made time for her, and the time you tried to take moments for yourself and Alina were interrupted by his need to be the only one in her orbit. Somehow, she did the same when you attempted to seek him out. She was always in need of something from him: approval, touch, comfort. Eventually, you made yourself scarce knowing you would never penetrate that orbit. 

Alina leans her head in for a kiss, and you can’t help but kiss her back. You immediately pull away, but she pulls you back for another kiss cupping your cheek. Tears start to stream down your face, but the hunger and grief keeps you close to her lips.

You sit up quickly as does Alina, and she holds the hem of your cloak as if she can sense your desire to flee.

“Please stay.” Alina begs, her plea barely hitting your ears. Before you can respond, she’s pulling you to your feet by your shadows, and you can’t break out of her grip. The look in her eye is almost feral, and it is nothing you have ever seen from her.

You pull on the shadows seeming to yank her towards you, and you can’t help fight back. She tugs you harder with what you can assume is hungry smirk on her face, and you pull her close to you.

“Come with me.” You mirror her plea.

She pulls you back to her, and your lips crash against hers. The both of you hold each other close, the kiss deepening.

Alina lets her hair fall to her shoulder, and you can’t help but play with a few strands. Kill her. Avenge him. Kill her. Kill her. Avenge him. She betrayed your people. You don’t have to live in her shadow anymore. You don’t have to compete with him anymore. You don’t have to…be.

You repress the thoughts and pull away, and Alina looks you up and down.

“I am sorry.” Alina wipes tears from her eyes. “I should have…known you loved him, too.”

“I suppose we were all blinded.” You clench your fist, trying to muster the courage to strike.

Someone knocks on the door, and Alina turns toward it. You flee leaving the same way you came.

When you get to your hideout, you press your back against the wall and slump down to the floor fingers touching your lips. You ignore the pull calling you back to Alina along with the regret of not killing her then and there. Another pull urges you, but you can’t place it as Alina’s pull is only slightly stronger from the other one. You won’t be surprised if she chases you until she finds you just as the General did when you attempted to help her flee.

Damn. You touch your lips again closing your eyes. You swear feel lips on yours again, but they’re different this time, a beard scraping against your cheek.  You are up on your feet again, and you sigh, having lost yourself in the grief again.

[whilereadingandwalking]

The Makioka Sisters by Jun'ichirō Tanizaki, translated by Edward G. Seidensticker, can be a bit of a slog. At 562 pages, this book tells the story of four sisters of an old, noble Osaka family. The main plot is Austen-esque: trying to get the 3rd sister, quiet Yukiko, married despite the high, almost snobbish standards of the old Makioka family, so that poor, modern, outgoing Taeko (affectionately called "Koi-san") can marry her long-time lover. As marriage negotiations continue to fall through for Yukiko, Taeko gets increasingly impatient, and older sister Sachiko worries that her behavior will bring ruin to the family name. I first, fittingly, began reading this book on the train from Osaka to Tokyo. It was covered by a flowery book cover I bought from a children's library on Nakanoshima island. Despite my best efforts, it took me more than a weekend to get through the hefty paperback.

Making Sachiko our central protagonist gives us an unreliable narrator in an intriguing way: her sensitive, traditional mindset leaves the reader both nostalgic and frustrated in turns. The book's biggest weakness was long, hefty paragraphs that could be repetitive from other sections. I suspect this comes from it being serialized and published in parts. I think the book would have benefited from multiple point-of-views. Sachiko is the perfect representative of the old family, but her actions were often snobbish and cold, and it would have been interesting to have her unreliability interrogated by having Taeko's point of view as well, here and there. Its biggest strength is to be read between the lines. Over the events of this book, which seem so couched in dated tradition and formality, loom hints of austerity measures and rumors that mark the impending shoe drop of Japan entering World War II. There's a sense (reinforced by the book's Japanese title, "lightly falling snow," which can refer to the falling cherry blossoms, a season of beauty short-lived and always destined to end each year) of impermanence around the entire book. This is a way of life about to be obliterated by world events. It's worth noting that the government actually stopped the publication of this book in 1943 because “The novel goes on and on detailing the very thing we are most supposed to be on our guard against during this period of wartime emergency: the soft, effeminate, and grossly individualistic lives of women.” All of this gives the novel a very specific wash as a frozen moment in time destined to be swept away. Its ending carries a sort of sadness to it: without spoilers, Sachiko feels confident that the future is set, but World War II is about to change everything for her family and country.

Even in the book itself, many holidays, festivals, and traditional arts and celebrations are being reeled back in light of the Second Sino-Japanese War. All of the book's readers during and after World War II would have recognized this acutely, and I suspect that feeling of loss and nostalgia for a traditional Japan (in all its good and bad) was a huge contributor to making this book a classic. As for the ending, the book's pacing was steady throughout, less like a flight (with a take-off, stabilization, and descent) and more like a train ride, straight across with a few interesting stops. The ending felt like getting off one stop before the train's final destination. Unceremonious, and it feels like the story keeps going straight ahead, but you're hurried off the train anyway. The events of the last three pages were large compared to a lot of others in the book that got entire chapters, and yet Tanizaki breezes over them and leaves us, it almost feels, mid-paragraph. I did like the bittersweetness he tries to leave us with, but the final sentence felt very low-energy for being the final words of a 500+ page book. Content warnings for misogyny, ableism, classism, mental illness.

[blueeyedrat]

Games I played in 2023.

Last year was stable. This year has been... less so. I've bounced between getting out more and shutting myself in more, and between trying to take better care of myself and letting small issues and stressors start to pile up. My steady job got a lot less steady, and I'm now out of work and finding ways to pass the time. Like video games, for instance. Shall we?

(2022 ⇐ 2023)

Moncage

This was another decent year for getting caught up on games I've tried out and expressed an interest in before. Moncage, INSIGHT, Railbound, URBO, and a few other games you'll see further down the list. I also followed up on some games I've played in the past like Train Valley 2, and even dipped back into some old mainstays like Eternal. One of these days I'll find time for Minecraft or Dwarf Fortress again.

I more or less broke even on my backlog this year, chipping away at smaller games from assorted bundles I've picked up over the years, but also picking up some new bundles to add to the pile. So many games, so little time.

Before We Leave

While we're talking about the backlog, here's a game I've been interested in for a while. A settlement builder in a solar system of small planets, with a quaint aesthetic of wooden ships and massive space whales. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this one. The automation and logistics aspect is an interesting spin on the genre, even it gets a bit complex at times. Never too challenging, though, and there's enough depth and nuance to hold my interest all the way to the final stages and on towards the stars. I'm looking forward to the upcoming sequel.

The Legend of Zelda (series)

It's hard to go wrong with Zelda. I have fond memories of Skyward Sword, Wind Waker HD, and Breath of the Wild, and with a new one on the way, it seemed like as good a time as any to catch up on my library. In order: Link's Awakening DX, Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask, The Minish Cap, and the DLC quests from Breath of the Wild I never got around to. Our Wii U saw more activity than it's gotten in years.

Opinions on each: Awakening was a fun, solid 2D adventure that never overstayed its welcome, though the game shows its age at a few points. Likewise, Ocarina was an interesting look at the series' jump to 3D, but was also somewhat janky at times and it took a while for me to really get into a groove with it. (I think the turning point might've been the Water Temple. I actually liked the Water Temple. Ye gods.) Majora was a sizeable improvement gameplay-wise and played with the format in neat ways, though I'll admit that I butted heads with the time loop mechanic more than once.

I have a particular nostalgia for Minish Cap; some of my earliest memories of Nintendo games are watching my friend's GBA over his shoulder on the bus ride to elementary school. After so long, this was the one I was most curious to see if it held up. Answer: yes. Minish Cap is officially my favorite 2D Zelda, and the highlight of this little retro binge. There's a lot of charm to it, and it just feels good to play.

It may be a bit too recent for nostalgia, but I almost forgot how much I loved Breath of the Wild. My old file was exactly how I left it, and playing through the extra content was a good way to re-acquaint myself with the "new" Zelda style before…

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

This was a daunting one. If I had to sum up Tears in one sentence, it would be this: There is so much game in this game. Even compared to its predecessor, there's so much to do and so many more layers of exploration and interaction, with a wide array of smaller improvements that make it a smoother experience overall.

I wish I could say I put as much time into this game as I did into Breath of the Wild, and I did put a lot of time into it, but… some other things got in the way. Summer is when my work got a lot busier and a good amount more stressful, and this was a game I slowly chipped away at whenever I found time for it. I got pretty much everything I wanted out of it, and after the credits rolled, I put it away and haven't touched it since. I should change that. I'm sure there are more good times to be had.

Mutazione

The word that comes to mind to describe Mutazione is fascinating. It's a point-and-click narrative, light on gameplay, heavy on story and character. Of the other games I've played recently, the vibes remind me the most of Sable – quiet and contemplative, where all you want to do is observe and take in the world and characters that are being presented to you. It dovetails nicely with the story itself, which largely consists of a curious little soap opera playing out around characters who are along for the ride. The writing is some of the best I've seen this year, and gets real fuckin' raw in ways I wasn't expecting. This one will stick with me for a while.

Pikmin 3 / The Wild at Heart

I've never had the focus or dexterity for a really complex RTS, but Pikmin's always been a little more approachable. Played the second game in the series a while back, picked up a used copy of Pikmin 3 at a local convention this year, and with another one coming out, it seemed as good an excuse as any to make it a double feature.

Both games have their charms. Pikmin has a distinct style and sense of scale that's hard to replicate, and a good variety of environments and encounters and puzzles. The Wild at Heart is smaller in scope as a Pikmin-like, and hits some familiar beats while remixing some of the core ideas in interesting ways. The latter also put more of an emphasis on character and narrative, something I'd like to see fleshed out more, but what we got was still satisfying. Both games were fun, and I'm looking forward to getting my hands on Pikmin 4 soon.

Chants of Sennaar / Heaven's Vault

Another double feature – one game that caught my eye immediately, and another I've been curious about for a while. For a long time I've had a fondness for constructed languages, with scripts and writing systems of particular interest. The idea of decoding such a language lends itself well to a puzzle game, and these two approach it in different ways: Chants of Sennaar features multiple cultures in a Tower of Babel-esque setting, each with their own quirks and traits to learn and translate between, and their own puzzles to solve. Heaven's Vault opts for depth, with a single language and a vast history that you slowly unravel through exploration.

My verdict for both games is the same. The language puzzles are really cool and interesting! I want more of them! …Everything else in between gets sort of meandering at times. Not enough to drag down the overall experience, but perhaps enough to overstay its welcome. Sennaar filled the space with a mish-mash of puzzles and stealth, which felt oddly paced at times. Heaven's Vault's pacing was hit even harder with slow exploration and visual novel-esque story segments – fine enough for one playthrough, but the amount of wandering and backtracking involved makes me hesitant to go back and play NG+ to see the rest of the content. I don't have the patience to play a visual novel multiple times to see what all of the dialogue options do. The story's fine as is, and I got what I wanted out of it.

Even with their faults, these are still probably the games that influenced me the most in 2023. If anyone asks me, as a game dev, what I would make given unlimited time, resources, and creative freedom, from now on I'm going to point to Chants of Sennaar and say "something like that". I want more games like this to exist. I will make them myself, if I have to.

F-Zero 99

This wasn't the only racing game I played this year – a bunch of new content was added to Mario Kart 8, and I also pulled Horizon Chase Turbo from my backlog and spent a bit of time on that – but this is definitely the one that made the biggest splash. I've never played an F-Zero game, and it controls differently enough from other racers I've played that I had to unlearn a lot of muscle memory, but I got the hang of it after a while. The 99-player model is frantic in an enjoyable way, and races are quick enough that it's easy to pick up and play in short bursts… which is good, because short bursts are all my nerves can take with this one. Seriously this game is stressful. Fun, but stressful. Maybe one of these days I'll actually win a 99-player race.

Cobalt Core

I've been playing... a lot of Cobalt Core these past couple months. I don't jump on every roguelite or deckbuilder that comes out, but when one does get its hooks in me, they get in deep. This is another one of those games where everything just works. Great music and pixel art, fun characters (all traits shared with its predecessor, Sunshine Heavy Industries, which I also liked this year), a simple but engaging narrative, and an addicting gameplay loop that I can easily sink an hour into whenever the mood strikes me. It doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it doesn't need to – it takes a lot of ideas from games that have come before it, and builds on them to create something really enjoyable. One of my favorite games of the year, without question.

Terra Nil

As we build up, so too must we tear down. This is another one I wanted to get to sooner or later, and managed to slip it in during the last couple weeks of the year. It's also a type of game I want to play more often; a lot of the time when I play sim and builder games all I really want in the end is to build nice-looking homes and environments, and Terra Nil spins that into a puzzle game where those things are the only goal. It was a nice time, but left me wanting more – either more content in Terra Nil, or more games like it.

Eastward

This game is… a curiosity. A solid action-adventure game with a memorable cast of characters and impeccably detailed pixel art. Gameplay flips back and forth between slow-paced story segments and fun setpiece levels with a decent variety of tools for combat and puzzle-solving. The biggest sticking point is the narrative: the pacing and worldbuilding felt odd and disjointed in places, particularly in the back half, sometimes feeling like it's saying too much and often like it's said too little. Yet throughout all that, it never failed to be compelling, and I was hooked all the way 'til the end. What's more, the idea of the upcoming Octopia DLC flipping the entire game and setting on its head has my interest thoroughly piqued – something to look forward to in the coming year.

-

Here's to 2024, and here's hoping things turn around sooner or later.

[pocket-luv101]

Desert Roses // Chapter 7

Fandom: Genshin Impact Ship: CynoNari

Summary: Cyno and Tighnari have an arranged marriage to end the conflict between the desert and rainforest. Later, Tighnari discovers a box that could hold the truth behind the disappearance of the Scarlet King and the Goddess of Flowers.

Ch.1 // Ch.2 // Ch.3 // Ch.4 // Ch.5 // Ch.6 // (Ch.7) //

Cyno ordered his soldiers to rest after riding throughout the evening. They were trained to endure long journeys but it was better not to push them. Their scouts reported that the approaching army was slow and it was unlikely they would reach their location, let alone the palace. They could take the opportunity to rest. After they set up camp, Cyno volunteered to guard the camp. Even if the army was far from them, there were other dangers in the desert.

He stood at the edge of the camp and watched the horizon. They travelled too far to see the palace and the setting sun was blinding. He should be focused on the fight ahead of him yet he found himself looking back towards his home. Cyno could easily see Tighnari sitting in his greenhouse and teaching Collei how to read. He hoped that they were safe. Even though Dehya stayed behind to guard them, he had his concern. Tighnari suspected that the incident in the library wasn’t an accident.

Should he have stayed by Tighnari’s side to protect him? The pharaoh’s order to march to the border and face the army was best for the kingdom’s safety. However, it was clear to Cyno that he had other objectives by sending him away. The journey was meant to give them time apart and remind Cyno of the purpose of their marriage. He didn’t marry for love but for the sake of their regions. The distance only made Cyno realize how close he grew to care for Tighnari.

When Cyno was a child, he made a contract with Hermanubis to protect their home. He wasn’t the type to blindly follow orders, whether they were from a pharaoh or deity, if it went against his own principles. Protecting his home was important to him and he rarely wavered from that. This was the first time that he felt uncertain of what he should do. He left with the army but he missed Tighnari.

“I have the first night shift. So, you must be here to monitor me instead of watching for mercenaries who would attack us.” Cyno spoke to Rahman without turning to address him. He had sharp senses and easily heard him approach him. Since Rahman didn’t try to hide his footsteps, Cyno doubted that he intended to hurt him. He was still guarded with him after the meeting with the Pharaoh and his words towards Tighnari. “I am the General Mahamatra and I won’t betray the vows I made.”

“Your vow to our Scarlet King or your new marriage? They claimed that we killed their goddess even though the rainforest is still blessed with rain.” Rahman followed the deity even years after his death. The desert struggled after they lost their god and some blamed the rainforest. No one knew the truth of his death and Rahman held the hope that King Deshret would return.

The ground rumbled beneath their feet and Cyno immediately drew his weapon. In the distance, a horse rushed towards them and sand was kicked into the air by its rapid pace. He lowered his guard when he realized that the rider wasn’t a mercenary or thief. The horse rode from the direction of the palace so they could be a messenger. However, he couldn’t relax fully because the rider had lost control of the horse.

Careful not to be trampled by the horse, he tried to calm it. He grabbed the reins and pulled it to a halt with a firm tug. The dust settled and Cyno looked up at the rider. The last person he expected sat on the horse. “Tighnari?”

“Thank the goddess, I found the camp.” Tighnari spoke between shaky breaths. He climbed down from the horse but his movements were sluggish. He didn’t know whether it was due to the heat or riding for hours without stopping. His foot slipped from the stirrup and he almost crashed to the ground. Cyno caught him and hugged him close.

“Are you okay? You need water. I’ll take you into the tent where it’s cooler. You can tell me what happened after that.” Cyno wrapped his arm around Tighnari’s waist to keep him from slumping to the ground. Questions swarmed his mind about why he left the palace but he was more focused on treating him first. Tighnari shook his head and gripped his shoulder.

“No, I need to speak with Cyno and stop him from running into the trap. Let me see him.” Cyno’s heart dropped when Tighnari didn’t recognize him. From his eyes were unfocused and flushed face, it was apparent that he had heat exhaustion. He was already confused to see him outside of the palace and that soon became fear. He needed to take him into the shade where he could recover faster.

Rahman stepped into his path and stopped him. “Why is he here? He must have been trying to escape back to the rainforest. We should take him back to the palace. I will return with him and lock him back in his room while you lead our soldiers to face the army.”

“Don’t touch my husband!” Cyno yelled and his arm around Tighnari tightened. With his free hand, he stabbed his spear into the sand between them and Rahman. The flash of protectiveness in his red eyes stopped Rahman. “Tighnari rode here without supplies. Someone as intelligent as him would have prepared better if he truly intended to leave the desert. He said he came here to warn me about a trap. He is weak against the sun but he risked his life to reach us. Now, step aside so I can take him to my tent.”

Cyno didn’t wait to listen to his response, more focused on Tighnari. He adjusted his arms around him so he could lift and carry him. His head fell against his shoulder and Cyno felt his tall ears brush against his cheek. The last time he held him this close, they were trapped in the underground temple. He bit his lip in frustration. He should’ve done more to protect him since then.

Men stared at him as he walked through the camp but he didn’t stop to explain Tighnari’s sudden appearance to them. Cyno was more focused on him and Rahman could take charge for the night. In the back of his mind, he worried whether the men would be distrustful of Tighnari. He would have to convince them that he came to warn them like he claimed.

He entered his tent and carefully laid him on the ground. Since he planned to guard the camp that night, he didn’t bother to prepare a cot to sleep. Cyno rushed to create a makeshift bed for Tighnari. He knew how dangerous the desert heat was and he did his best to make him comfortable. He loosened Tighnari’s clothes and then fanned his damp skin. After a few minutes, his breathing became steadier but he didn’t open his eyes.

Cyno lifted Tighnari so he was sitting and held a canteen of water against his lips. He drank a few sips but then he turned his face away and coughed. He tenderly rubbed his back to ease the pain. His stomach twisted into knots and he wished that there was more he could do for him. Tighnari finally opened his eyes and his ears flicked against the air.

“Tighnari,” He whispered his name. The questions he had for him vanished and his only thought was how relieved he was. Cyno gathered Tighnari into his arms and buried his face into his neck. He could smell flowers from the desert and rainforest in his hair. Despite the countless battles he fought in the war, he couldn’t remember the last time he was so panicked.

He only loosened his embrace when Tighnari tapped his arm. “I don’t think holding me like this will help me in this heat.”

Tighnari was certain that Cyno would have the opposite effect rather than keeping him cool. His body was warm and, as inviting as that was, he hadn’t fully recovered from the heat. He untied his belt and the shawl over his shoulder dropped to the ground. Without the layer of clothes, he could breathe easier. He read that a cloak would protect him from the sun but he wished he had something made from lighter fabric.

His body felt heavy and Tighnari fought against his exhaustion to move. He rummaged through his satchel until he was able to find the letter from his mother. He wavered slightly from his dizziness and leaned against Cyno to steady himself. Tighnari placed the letter on his knee but Cyno could only see a blank page. “My mother sent me this letter with jimsonweed.”

“The poisonous flower from the library?” Cyno wasn’t an expert in plants but he recognized the flower from Tighnari’s explanation. “Why would your mother send jimsonweed to you? Are you certain this is from your mother? It’s a blank page and this could be another trap.”

“This paper is made from unique desert plants that will make the letter invisible. The Goddess of Flowers taught the Valuka Shuna the method of how to create the paper and ink needed. To reveal the words, we need electro or dendro energy. I haven’t had the chance to read her letter yet. She must know something though. My mother would only send me a letter using this if she wanted to warn me about something. Jimsonweed grows north of the desert and that’s the direction you took your army.”

He placed his hand over the page. He was too lightheaded to concentrate enough to use his vision though. Then, Cyno placed his hand over his fingers and he could feel sparks of electricity against his skin. The translucent ink flared brightly before it settled into a solid colour. Tighnari read through the letter and his brows furrowed with each word.

Tighnari, the rainforest received a warning that you were attacked by diplomats from the desert. This is against our treaty and we intend to have them answer for this. Your father insists that we march to the City of Sapphire and take you back. I’ve missed you so much and I didn’t want you to go to the desert. However, this wasn’t the way I wanted to have you return home. Please, keep yourself safe until we can reach you.

He felt Cyno’s gaze move from the page to himself. His face was unreadable and Tighnari could only guess at the thoughts going through his mind. Cyno must’ve finished the letter and concluded that he was the one to tell his mother about the incident in the library. It was a reasonable assumption against someone from the rainforest. Tighnari recalled the distrustful stares during his first night at the banquet.

“Cyno, I swear that I didn’t tell my parents to march to the palace. This is a surprise to me too. I thought this letter was a warning about a threat to the north, not my parents.” Tighnari started to defend himself.

“I trust you, Tighnari.” He stopped him. “Our scouts discovered a group of people in the north a few days ago. That was before everything that happened. It takes several days for letters to be delivered from the desert to the rainforest so it would’ve been impossible for you to ask your parents to take you back.”

“That worries me. Someone told my parents that my life is endangered. The only person who would be the one to place the jimsonweed for me to find. I don’t believe the person is from the pharaoh’s council. Jimsonweed is from the far north of the desert and I doubt anyone from the desert or rainforest would go out of their way for this flower.”

The few answers that the letter gave him were outnumbered by the questions Tighnari had. The only reason someone would target him and frame the desert was to sew distrust between their countries. Why would anyone wish to return to war when they only recently signed the treaty? Tighnari’s hands clenched into fists around the petal.

His fingers relaxed when Cyno took his hand. “We’ll find the person who attacked you and I’ll question him myself. Though, we have more pressing matters to attend to first. Your parents are marching to the city and we need to stop them. I will ride to their location while you stay here and recover. Can you write a letter for me? They’ll trust your word more than mine.”

“In that case, I will go with you.” Tighnari offered.

“It has been a long time since you’ve seen your parents.” Cyno didn’t immediately agree to take Tighnari with him because he worried that the humid desert would be difficult for him. He thought over what he should choose.

“I do miss my family.” The words struck Cyno more than he expected that they would. Tighnari’s feelings were understandable because he was sent to the desert for a political marriage. The desert was very different from the rainforest he grew up in. No matter how Cyno tried to swallow his hurt with those thoughts, there was still a sliver of disappointment.

Then, Tighnari continued: “I mostly want to resolve this and return home to the palace as quickly as possible. Collei must have been confused after I left so suddenly. There wasn’t much time to explain everything to her. I was scared that you and your men were walking into a trap. In the moment, I could only think of how I needed to reach you before my parents did.”

“We will need to harness a chariot to the horse you bought to meet your parents before they reach the border. Horses will be faster than mules but they can’t travel well over sand. It’s lucky that you weren’t thrown off your horse during the ride here.” Cyno often called Tighnari selfless for accepting the role as a political hostage in their alliance. Now, he didn’t know whether to call him brave or reckless. “You shouldn’t have taken such a risk. Dehya or Kaveh could’ve sent a message for you.”

“This was something I had to do to protect…” The treaty, both of our homes, our friends. Many things passed through his mind and he trailed off. Adrenaline and determination had made him so focused on reaching Cyno that he didn’t have time for his feelings to settle. Now, he realized how scared he was. He let out a shaky breath and thought, I wanted to protect you.

The sound of footsteps approaching their tent pulled Tighnari out of his thoughts and he looked towards the door as the cover was lifted. Rahman stepped inside with a bucket and Cyno subtly moved between them. He didn’t know why he came to their tent but he wouldn’t allow him to repeat their earlier interaction.

Rahman placed the bucket in front of them and Cyno peered inside to find water. They camped near a small pool but he didn’t expect him to go out of his way to bring them water. Rahman crossed his arms and said, “I was listening to your conversation to learn why he’s here. If it’s truly to stop the rainforest from raiding the palace, we can’t send you to them weak and dehydrated. They’ll use that as a reason to attack the desert.”

“I won’t let that happen.” Tighnari reassured him. “Thank you for the water.”

“I will lead our warriors while you go to the border. We’ll be on standby and watch the rainforest’s forces. The moment you fail to stop them, we will deal with the issue.” His voice remained gruff and left without speaking further. While he didn’t voice concern for him, Tighnari hoped that Rahman was beginning to trust him.

Tighnari grabbed the rim of the bucket but he couldn’t pull it closer to him with how his body wavered. The effect of the sun still weighed heavily on him and he almost fell forward onto the ground. Cyno wrapped his arm around his waist and pulled him closer so he could lean on him. He dipped a cloth into the water and then wring it dry.

Tenderly, Cyno wiped the sweat from his body and helped cool his skin. Tighnari couldn’t stop himself from purring and leaning into his touch. He didn’t expect something so simple would ease the unbearable heat. His eyes were drawn to his lips and he thought of the faux kiss they shared before he left the palace.

“Do you think I’ll ever be considered a part of the desert? Riding here was a painful reminder that I might not be suited for this.” He usually kept himself from voicing his insecurities and worries because it might lead to people of the desert distrusting his loyalty. Between the dizzying heat and Cyno’s comforting hand, those thoughts slipped from his lips.

“People like Rahman resent the rainforest after our god was killed and they’ll project that crime onto everyone from your kingdom.”

“The haughty scholars I knew also had that mentality. I always thought it was pointless to hold a grudge when no one knew what happened. However, changing people’s minds is more difficult than I expected.”

Cyno placed his finger beneath Tighnari’s chin and lightly lifted his face so their gaze met. He wiped the cloth over his forehead and brushed aside his bangs in the same motion. His green and amber eyes reflected the rainforest and they were stunning to Cyno. He wanted to reassure him and see his smile again.

“Rahman’s loyalty to the desert is stronger than the hatred he holds. You gained his respect after you came to warn us about the letter. He might not fully trust you but he shouldn’t be openly suspicious of you. Everyone will see you as you are and not just someone from the rainforest.” With the time they spent together, Cyno already came to see Tighnari as part of his home in the desert.

[theteltales]

Fly Back To Me

A Liz and the Blue Bird One-shot

Nozomi

Around and around, Mizore's hands deftly wrapped the string along one end of the new reed she was fashioning. With only a few days left until the holiday recital, she would have just enough time to make sure this one was complete. Not to mention the others her bandmates had asked her to make. Of course, the work also helped calm her mind. To soothe both the anxiety of playing in front of all those people and distract herself from other, more personal matters. A moment later, that quiet reverie was shattered when her phone began to vibrate on the table, off to the side of the supplies spread out in front of her. 

Mizore paused what she was doing and looked over to check who it was. Upon seeing the name, "Your Favorite Person!" and a picture of Nozomi, a small smile kicked up on her lips and she quickly moved to set aside her project before picking it up. 

"Hello?" Her voice was soft as ever and the tone drew out laughter from the other side. 

"Why does it sound like you're questioning who's calling? Unless you changed my picture and my name.” There was a pause for a few moments and then Nozomi continued. “You didn't, right?"

"No, it's still the same." There was no way she'd do that. Nozomi didn't realize it but she'd managed to select one of Mizore's favorite pictures of her when she'd set it as her contact photo. And well, she  was  her favorite person, after all. 

"Good, the facts must be known to the world. So, how was practice today?"

Now that they had gotten into the thick of it, Mizore rose from the table and began walking around it in circles. "It was good. Everyone is working hard to make sure we're ready." As she meandered, her eyes remained downcast and unfocused.

"That's good to hear. Are you feeling nervous about the solo?" 

The solo. Even though it was a band recital, Mizore had earned herself another moment in the spotlight with her oboe. "A little," she admitted. Not as much as she had at one point or another but still enough to cause her hands to involuntarily tighten at the thought of it. Luckily, she had a secret weapon. "You'll be there, right? To watch?" To support her. Even if it was from the audience now instead of together on stage. She’d preferred it when Nozomi had been up there with her, but she understood that time had passed. Thankfully, now they could stand together in different ways. Ways that were still as satisfying, if not more. 

Mizore waited for an answer but Nozomi's voice came back muffled instead, like the phone was pulled away from her face. "Hey! Yeah. No, I just finished up in the library. Oh…next time, I'm going to stop by the convenience store on the way home. Okay, I'm talking to Mizore. Yes, her! Alright…alright! Bye!"

She was clearly talking to someone else but Mizore couldn't make out what they were saying. It sounded like an invitation to dinner if she had to guess. 

"Hey! Sorry, it was a friend from class."

"That's alright. Dinner out again?"

"Yeah, I need something quick. I really hate finals, no time to cook. Anyway, what were you saying? Did you ask something?"

"You're coming to my recital, right?" This time, there was only silence on the other end of the line. The longer it stretched, the slower Mizore walked and the more her anxiety grew. 

"That's why I wanted to call you. Besides our nightly chat, of course. Professor Hirasawa moved our exam up to the same day..." Nozomi's words trailed off leaving the remainder unsaid. Of course, the meaning could easily be inferred. She was going to miss the recital. 

Mizore finally came to a stop and hung her head lower but kept the phone by her ear while she gathered her thoughts. When they'd discussed going to separate universities, a train ride away didn't seem like a big deal. However, it had proved to be quite the impediment when coupled with how busy the two women were. With Mizore's music and Nozomi's studies, on top of her robust social life, they saw far less of each other than Mizore liked. And she assumed, Nozomi liked. Or hoped, at least. 

"But...you missed the last one too..." Mizore's chest tightened and her free hand began to fidget with the string of the sweatpants she currently wore. 

"I know, I know. I'm sorry, Mizore. I promise I'll make it up to you!"

She wanted to protest, almost wanted to raise her voice but what did it matter? It wasn't like it was Nozomi's fault. Still, she couldn't help but be disappointed. "Okay." 

"Okay. Was the rest of your day alright?"

Mizore did her best to push her feelings aside and enjoy their chat. She spoke about her classes in the morning and what she had for dinner in the evening. However, when she tried to ask Nozomi the same, she hadn't realized she'd run out the clock. 

"Shoot! Hey, I'm at the store and I need to pick out dinner. Then I've  really  got to study now that I have less time. Can I call you back tomorrow?"

Always so little time. "Alright. Have a good dinner and study well." 

"Yes Ma'am! Have a good night’s sleep. Love you!" 

"Love you too." 

The last thing Mizore heard before the call ended was a loud  mwah . Which never failed to bring a soft smile to her lips and cheer her up a little. But not more than hearing those three words. Honestly, sometimes it was still as shocking as that first time on the sidewalk. So much had changed since then, but many others remained the same. It was those lingering things that her mind latched onto at night, keeping her awake and riddled with doubt.

What would life be like in a few more years? She'd be done college for starters. What would that mean for her and Nozomi? What would they do for work? Would they even still be together? That particular thought finally forced her to look up and walk back to her seat in an attempt to block it out. Now that Nozomi had called, she set her phone down and started up a playlist to keep her company while she finished the task at hand. 

--- 

A few days later those nerves were back in full force. This time though, they were due to the performance that was set to begin soon. In the buzz of activity on stage, Mizore didn't even realize someone had stepped next to her.

"Is she coming tonight?" 

Mizore looked up from where she was busy making last-minute adjustments to find Aoi standing by her seat. Mizore didn't make many friends in her new school but the ones she did manage to get close with had been very supportive. Even when she'd spoken to them about her relationship troubles. Well, not troubles per se. Worries was a better way to describe it. 

"No. She can't make it."

Aoi seemed to deflate at the revelation and then did her best to smile through it. "I'm sure she's upset about it, Mizore. I know she’d rather be here watching you than doing anything else."

Mizore nodded but otherwise looked unmoved. Even her normally placid expression appeared strained. She knew Aoi's words to be true but she couldn't shake the nagging feeling in the back of her mind that said otherwise. That said this would be their fate. Missed recitals turning into missed dates. Missed dates into missed calls. That they would drift apart bit by bit over time. “Yeah, you’re right. Thank you.”

Aoi brought up a hand and squeezed her shoulder before sitting down and removing her own instrument to prepare. Over the next few minutes, other students did the same until the doors to the music hall opened and guests and the public were allowed to enter. Despite knowing she wouldn’t find Nozomi in the crowd, Mizore still couldn't help but look at each face that entered. Hoping beyond hope. Gradually, the flow of the crowd slowed to a trickle and then ended right before the doors were finally shut. 

Their conductor came up to the podium then and turned to regard the assembled guests. She thanked them for coming and explained the theme of the night and how it related to the pieces the students would play for them. Mizore's gaze lingered on her for most of the speech but eventually settled back amongst the sea of seats. Not focusing on anything or anyone in particular. However, the sudden opening of the furthest door to the left caught her attention. There, a single woman stepped through and came to a stop behind the back row of seats. She didn't move to sit yet and scanned the faces of those on stage instead until she locked eyes with Mizore. 

"Nozomi..." She came! Mizore leaned forward in her seat and Nozomi raised her hand high to wave. Which only drew more looks from the students on stage. 

"Hey," Aoi leaned toward Mizore and nudged her arm. "Looks like she made it!"

"Yeah," Mizore nodded her head and smiled subtly to herself. "It looked like she did."

"Let's play our best for her, hmm?"

Mizore's smile widened and she gripped her Oboe a little tighter. "Let’s." She followed the word by bringing up a hand and waving back. Whereupon Nozomi finally moved to find a seat. 

She came . Mizore couldn't help but repeat the words over and over in her head like some kind of mantra. Each time caused her heart to lift and fill with joy. How exactly it came to be wasn’t even a question in her mind. All that mattered was that Nozomi came to listen to her play and she would do her best to make it worthy of that effort. As if she would ever do anything less. 

The performance began in earnest soon after and Mizore's solo came and went without issue. Any spare moment she had, her eyes drifting to where Nozomi sat. It was a little too far and too dark to see her expression but Mizore hoped she was enjoying herself. At the conclusion of the show, the students stood to a round of enthusiastic applause and then bowed before starting to gather their things. Of course, one particular guest made a beeline for the stage, practically pushing others out of the way. 

"Mizore!" 

Hearing Nozomi say her name was that final piece of confirmation Mizore needed to know she wasn't imagining things. But it wasn’t a dream, she was here in the flesh...and was holding flowers.  

"You made it," Mizore offered before reaching up and moving some of the more errant hair behind an ear. "I thought you couldn't come?"

"Yeah, about that. I ended up asking the professor if I could take the exam with his morning class instead." Nozomi shrugged but continued with her explanation. "I told him I had an important obligation that I couldn't afford to miss. Seems like he also felt bad for moving it up with such little notice. Either way, he let me!" 

Whatever the reason, Mizore was glad she'd been able to listen. "I'm so happy he agreed," Nozomi continued. "You played beautifully, as always." She paused for a moment and then seemed to remember what was in her hand. When she did, she brought the flowers up and offered them with an outstretched hand. “Oh, and these are for you!”

Mizore reached out and took them before bringing them to her nose. They smelled wonderful and the gesture had her cheeks burning red with embarrassment. Adding to the warmth in her chest from hearing Nozomi describe this as an  important  obligation . “They’re lovely, Nozomi. Thank you.”

“Like a certain girl I know!” Nozomi added with a chuckle, further deepening Mizore’s blush. “We should get them back to your apartment though. We need to get them in some water before they wilt.”

Well, she didn’t need to say it twice. Mizore nodded in agreement and reveled in the thought of getting back home. “Okay, I'll grab my things and we can go.”

“Let me do that, you rest. You earned it.” Nozomi hurried around and picked up the Oboe, music sheets, and an embroidered handkerchief that bore both their initials. A gift following a similar performance last year.

“You don’t have to do that; I can get it.”

“Nonsense. This is the least I can do for my girlfriend after stunning us all with your music.” Once she had everything in hand, Nozomi stepped forward and wrapped an arm around one of Mizore’s before moving off towards the locker room. By this point, she knew where everything in the music hall was and greeted people as the pair passed them. People Mizore barely even knew. It was all very…Nozomi.

Eventually, they managed to make it free of the venue and started the short trip back to the apartment. Of course, Nozomi still clung to Mizore’s arm. As they walked, she recounted her day and the exam that morning but mostly continued with a never-ending stream of compliments. Each one more grandiose than the last.

After they arrived home, Nozomi moved to set everything on the dining room table before heading towards the kitchen. “Are you hungry?”

Mizore did the same and then moved to follow, stopping at the entrance to the tiny area and leaning against the door jam. “I had something at lunch but nothing any closer to the show.”

“Alright then, I’ll make us some dinner. Why don’t you go take a shower in the meantime? Relax a little.”

In all honesty, a shower did sound good right about now but she hated to miss out on any time they could get together. It was so important and already hard to come by. Nozomi must’ve sensed her hesitation because she closed the fridge and moved to where she stood.

“Mizore…I’m here, okay.” When she got close, her arms came up to rest on Mizore’s hips before sliding around to her back. With some purchase, Nozomi pulled her into a close embrace. “And I’ll still be here when you get out of the shower. Even better, I’ll have warm food.”

Mizore could only nod and hug tighter before responding. “I know, it’s just…this is precious time to me. I don’t want to lose that.”

“I know it is. However, unless you plan on kicking me out, we have the whole weekend together.”

“I would never!” Mizore's head jerked up to lock eyes with Nozomi. Who chuckled at the sudden outburst.

“Good.” The hands on Mizore's back slowly released but traveled up to cup either side of her face. “Now, off you go while I cook. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be done and then we can spend all night together. Okay?”

“Alright.”

“Alright,” Nozomi followed the word by bringing Mizore’s face to hers so their lips met in a soft kiss. Well, now it was even harder to part! Still, Mizore managed to pull away and leave her to it. A few minutes later she stood underneath the shower head, facing the wall to let the water run through her hair and down over her face. Despite her previous reservations, she wore a pleased expression and at one point brought a hand up to touch her lips. She came back to me. It was no surprise then, that she reemerged not even fifteen minutes later in pajamas that consisted of an oversized t-shirt and a pair of cotton shorts. She wanted to hurry so she could help but found the meal mostly complete after arriving.

When Nozomi noticed her, she smiled and then shook her head gently. “I knew you’d be quick so I didn’t bother with anything fancy.” After arriving in the kitchen, Mizore noted sauteed vegetables off to one side and eggs currently cooking on the stovetop. “Can you do me a favor and plate the rice?”

“Sure.” Mizore moved to a cabinet and removed two plates before bringing them to the rice cooker. She scooped out generous portions onto each and then brought them back to the counter by the stove.

“Thanks!” With everything in place, Nozomi lifted the pan filled with the runny, semi-scrambled eggs and then drizzled them over the rice. She then topped it off with the vegetables and clapped her hands before stretching them out towards her creation. “Viola! I present, college-student-omurice.” This earned her a giggle from Mizore and Nozomi brought her hands down to her hips before looking over longingly. “There it is. That’s the real music to my ears.”

Naturally, Mizore became sheepish following the compliment and moved to get two pairs of chopsticks and a glass of water for each of them. After Nozomi picked up the plates, she followed her to the table and helped set everything out. “How was the train?”

“It was good, especially since I made it on time. You should’ve seen me though, I was running through the station. So, it was probably a good thing I didn’t have any luggage.”

Mizore tried to imagine the scene and ended up bringing her empty hand up to cover her mouth before another laugh escaped her lips. "I bet. Besides, you have everything you need here."

"Yeah, I really do. Don’t I?" Of course, she already kept a few spare things at Mizore’s apartment and the two were close enough in size that they could share clothes. However, that most likely wasn't what she was talking about, was it? Their conversation drifted to lighter topics and stories of happenings since the last time they were together, taking them through dinner and dessert. It was lucky Mizore had selected a rather large piece of chocolate cake with which to drown her sorrows. Of course, she'd happily share it if it meant they never came. 

Once they finished, Nozomi went off to shower while Mizore cleaned up the mess. The tiny apartment didn't come with a dishwasher so she had to do everything by hand, but she didn't mind. It was relaxing, in a way, and the whole time a subtle smile graced her lips. Even something as insignificant as hearing the shower running lifted her spirits because it meant Nozomi was here. However, once her thoughts strayed to her girlfriend  in  the shower, the smile gave way to a more bashful expression and her cheeks turned a light shade of red. Time to scrub harder! It didn't take her long to finish though, so she moved back to the living room and browsed her phone while she waited. She was surprised to hear the shower turn off only a few minutes later since Nozomi usually liked to stay in longer. Another little while and Nozomi emerged from the back in much the same bedtime getup. Albeit with a towel wrapped around her neck. 

Seeing Nozomi enter the room caused Mizore to sit up and open her legs, creating a space between them. Nozomi didn't skip a beat and went to sit in close, most likely anticipating what was to come. It was their normal ritual, after all. Once she was in place, Mizore took the towel up in her hands and began to dry the long, black hair.  

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

When she got to the scalp, her fingers dug in a little deeper, massaging gently as an added bonus. The effort brought out a pleased hum before Nozomi dropped her head back and looked up into her eyes. “Hi,” was as she said in a tone that was almost a whisper.

“Hi.” Mizore's hands came to a stop and then fell away even though she wasn’t finished. 

“I’m feeling worn out after today and I’m sure you are too. Let’s go get in bed, hmm?” Nozomi was right, it had been a long day. Not only had the recital been demanding in its usual way, but Mizore felt like she had been on a roller coaster of emotions as well. It was tiring even if the day had ended in a good place.

“Yes, that sounds nice.”

Nozomi nodded in response and then stood with the towel still on her head before reaching down and taking up Mizore’s hand. “Come on, let’s go.” With a gentle tug, she pulled Mizore to her feet and then led them through the living room and into the back. When they arrived, Nozomi led her to the bed and then turned so Mizore could sit. Subsequently, she left her side momentarily and went to the door to hang up the towel to dry. Once it was in place, she turned and started making her way back. Only to stop a few steps later after noticing the picture on the dresser. “I always love seeing this. Even though I feel like we look younger and younger each time I do.” Nozomi reached out and picked up the frame with one hand before using her other to run over the glass.

“Me too," Mizore agreed. "I can’t believe it’s been almost two years already.” The picture Nozomi held was one of them on their graduation day, holding their diplomas, arms wrapped around one another. It had been a bittersweet day. Knowing the love they shared would continue on, even if they had to be separate for a little while. Or so Mizore hoped.

“Yeah,” Nozomi sighed and then placed it back on the dresser before turning and regarding Mizore where she sat. “We’ll get a new one at this next graduation, right?”

“Oh…yes?”

“Good.” Nozomi sighed and then finally made her way over to the bed where she climbed in without any further preamble. Mizore watched her go but didn’t move herself. Not until Nozomi spread her arms wide and beckoned for her to join. Of course, Mizore needed no further encouragement and practically dove into the waiting embrace.

“Whoa! Someone is eager!”

She was. She was so damn eager she didn’t stop moving until her face lay in the crook of Nozomi’s neck and her arms tightened across her back, pulling them close. She stayed like that for a few moments, silently absorbing everything she could. The warmth of Nozomi’s body. Her smell, even if she used Mizore’s soap and shampoo. Any little detail Mizore could cling to until the next time they could be together.

“Hey, are you okay?” Apparently, this didn’t go unnoticed and Mizore thought she could detect real concern in Nozomi’s voice.

“I…missed you. That’s all.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about the train. I was worried you'd be even more disappointed if something happened and I didn’t make it after all.”

Mizore nodded into her shoulder but still didn’t move to separate. “It’s okay, I understand. You’re right, I would’ve been more disappointed if that happened. I’m happy that it didn't, though."

“Me too,” Nozomi replied and then shifted one of her hands up to rest on Mizore’s head. “I can’t wait for this to be done with...”

Mizore sucked in a breath and then finally lifted her head, unsure what exactly Nozomi was getting at. “For what to be done with?” School? Not having to come and see her? Mizore did her best to not let any worry show on her face but the way Nozomi reacted told her she may not have been very successful with that either.

“Of us being apart,” Nozomi’s narrowed her eyes and titled her head as if confused. “We’re going to live together after graduation, right?”

Mizore’s eyes opened wide and she instantly forgot anything other assumptions that plagued her mind. “What? You want to live together?” Her eyes searched Mizore’s, shifting between them, looking for any hint this was some kind of joke or she’d misunderstood.

“Well, yeah! I mean…don’t you? I thought that was always the plan…” 

“Yes, I do!” Mizore let herself fall atop Nozomi again, wrapping her up in another hug.

“Okay, okay. It’s settled,” Nozomi laughed and dropped her arm to join its twin around Mizore, hugging back fiercely. Their soft laughter filled the room but once it died down, Mizore breathed deeply and then let it ease out.

“I was worried that we would grow apart. That by the time we finished school, we wouldn’t be together anymore…”

“What!? No way! Where did you get that idea?”

“Well, we’ve been seeing each other less and less as time went on and I thought it was becoming too hard.” Not that it was solely Nozomi’s fault, either. There had been plenty of times Mizore had cancelled plans too. Usually after finding out about last-minute changes with a practice or performance. It was all so frustrating.

“Ah. I guess missing your last recital, and then planning to miss this one, wasn’t exactly helping that. Was it?”

“No…”

Nozomi took in a deep breath that raised Mizore’s head slightly where it lay on her chest. She subsequently felt Nozomi’s nose pressed into her scalp right before her lips planted a quick kiss on the crown of her head. “I’m sorry. I really am. I’ll be better, I promise. In making time for us and, you know, actually talking about plans.”

The declaration caused Mizore to look up and match her gaze. “I’m sorry, too. I should’ve said something sooner.” 

Nozomi smiled warmly and then nodded before squeezing her arms where they lay across Mizore’s back. "I guess that’s just something we’ll have to continue working on because I'm not going anywhere, okay? I love you, Mizore. I meant it when I told you that first time and I mean it now." 

"I love you too. So much...” 

Nozomi hummed her contentment and then let her head fall back into the pillows, a wide smile on her face. Only for her to look back up a moment later. “So...where should we live!?"

[pandorias-box]

Fleeting Happiness

I had another dream-memory last night, and it was one where I appeared to be slightly older than the previous ones. It seems as if I was approximately 8 or 9 human years of age, and for once, there were no feelings of underlying dread. Perhaps that is because my father was completely absent from it; it was just me and my mother having a conversation. An important one, actually.

“Can you tell me more stories, mother?” A youthful voice asked. A woman with braided indigo hair stared down at the child and replied with only a simple smile.

“Starlight, there have already been so many I told you! I am no library archive or Akadaemia, and you know this.” She laughed. The young girl crossed her arms and looked away only for a second before facing her attention to her mother once more.

“But how do you know so many stories? And why do you call me ‘starlight’? There aren’t any stars in the city, and you know it!” The youth questioned. The woman sighed and gestured the girl towards her.

“Perhaps it is time I told you something, Pandoria. I am not from Ultra Megalopolis originally. I moved here when I was young, about your age from another inhabited world.”

“Oh! You told me about the other worlds in our lessons, right?” The girl chimed in. Her mother nodded whilst softly grinning.

“I did indeed.”

“So there’s Ultra Forest, Ultra Desert, Ultra Jungle, Ultra Carnival and…”

“Ultra Hive. That was my home. It was one where the stars were actually visible on the horizon, Pandoria. One with two suns and two moons that encircled a gas giant; the planet itself was a moon. One covered in swaths of vast forests that seemed to glow at night and ornate Ultra Beast nests the size of buildings. One where people and Ultra Beast lived together in harmony. And where I learned most my stories you’re so fond of. Maybe one day, you’ll go there.” The young Pandoria’s eyes were alight with wonder. She still had so many questions to ask her.

“Wait, you said most of the stories… where did you learn the rest?” Her mother hesitated somewhat before answering her question.

“I should have told you this sooner. I was a member of the Ultra Recon Squad.”

“No way! Did you go on any cool missions? Fight any nasty Ultra Beasts? Discover anything new?”

“Now, now, Pandoria. I know you still have a lot more thoughts in that head of yours. Sadly, no. I was no scientist,” But your father was, she had refrained from mentioning that man that put them both through so much torment for their own sakes. “I studied the history of Ultra Space and other outlying worlds, but I had a keen interest in folklore and mythology. I have seen countless things and met so many people, Pandoria. I was alight and beaming with curiosity just as you are now. I even got to ride on the back of a Lunala for my job!” The young girl let out a gasp of wonderment and the woman laughed somewhat in response.

“That’s so cool! I wanna be a Recon Squad member so I can learn more stories!” The room then was met with a brief moment of silence. Her mother then sighed.

“Pandoria, I understand your enthusiasm regarding my former field of work, but you must know this: it can be dangerous and you have to train and study hard if you are to even try to get in. I know that you are capable of great things, starlight. But, remember, do not pursue this path for my sake but for yours.” Her mother’s voice softened. Though she was young then and couldn’t truly understand what she was saying, those words would become important to her later on in her life.

“Then… I’ll go to the Akadaemia and study real hard, undergo training, and then be a member of the Ultra Recon Squad to learn more about other worlds! I’ve made up my mind!”

“Is that so?” Pandoria nodded in response with astute confidence. Her mother’s gaze softened and she began to approach her, embracing her daughter gently within her arms.

“For now, I’ll be the one telling the stories. You still have yet to write yours.”

[pbandjesse]

Well I wanted to go to work today. I fully planned on it! I was not feeling amazing but I woke up and got dressed and was about to put my shoes on when Alexi texted that it was snowing at camp and we should stay home. Oh. Okay. There were flurries outside which was pretty but I was very confused about this snow day. But I'll take it.

I wasn't entirely sure if we were actually staying home though. The way she phrased it I was not sure if I should be ready to head in later. But I wanted to be ready so I did not fall asleep. At least not for a while.

James has packed me breakfast and lunch and we're downstairs doing their thing. And I was a little unsettled and not feeling amazing. I wasn't exactly sure what to do with myself. So even though I didn't want to go back to sleep I did get in bed. I was very cold.

I would spend the first hour drawing and being cozy. James went to the museum to get a free bagel from the new bagel store that opened today. And would stay for a bit to help them with a weird school group issue. But I'm glad they were able to help and were safe biking in the wet snow outside.

I would wander around the house a bit. I decided we should move some of the boxes in the studio with my knickknacks to the small room for now. But I only got one box up before I got super tired. I am doing better but I am still so weak. And get so winded so quickly. Which is not fun for me at all. It makes me feel terrible. But I did my best.

I would end up falling asleep for a little. James would come back and I would be out. Just dead asleep. And that made me feel a lot better. When I woke up I finally had some work to do. Elizabeth needed me to edit a PDF and Alexi let us know we would be a part of a meeting at 1. Excellent. While I waited for the meeting I had some ice cream and worked on a drawing for Valentine's day. Which I will print tomorrow.

James would go for a bike ride during my meeting. And it was a nice little meeting about volunteering and how we're going to structure the program. I asked if I could do some research about trainings we could have them do to make the program more well rounded. It was nice to see Sarah and Alexi. Poor Sarah was struggling really hard with her connection but we made it through. And I spent the next hour or so researching and working on a few things.

James would take the car to go get some more stuff from the apartment. We are coming up on there only being some stuff left. Which is nice. Still some books to pack but I'm really happy with the progress. I hope next week to fill holes and clean. And then move my fishtanks. We are going to hopefully buy their new table this weekend at IKEA. I'm really looking forward to having furniture.

While James was gone I attempted to hang the curtain rods in our bedroom. Which went semi successfully but I got very very dizzy having my hands over my head. When James got back they helped me finish them and I really appreciated that.

They brought my table for my band saw back and I got that in place in the basement. And we worked to put more stuff away. Sweetp continues to run around on the vents in the basement. I hung a few pictures in the bedroom. James was downstairs making me something for Valentine's Day. So I was sequestered upstairs for a bit. But that was okay.

Eventually I ran out of steam. I felt gross. I tried my theory about turning the sink on to get the shower to work and it worked? Like it's still not hot but it's so much warmer and I was able to actually comfortably wash my hair and didn't feel rushed or anything. It's still not perfect but it's so much better. And it was really nice being clean.

I hung out in bed for a long time after that. James would make us spaghetti for dinner and we sat together in the living room watching a video about RL Stein. James telling me memories about being a kid and borrowing goosebumps from the library. The pasta didn't taste like much, because my sense of taste is all messed up still, but the love was there.

I wanted to sort the rest of the art we have in the ground but I just didn't have the energy. Instead coming upstairs. It is going to be so nice when we have a sofa downstairs but for now, the bed is good enough.

James is having their book club with their friends. Jess is on a first date. And I am thinking about going to sleep early.

Tomorrow is valentine's day! James and me are going to have special pizza at home. But I hope to have a nice day at work first. I love you all. I hope you are feeling good tonight.

[bluejaysandblackbats]

Daily Planet Classifieds

Fandom: DC Comics, Superfam, Young Justice 98, Titans

Summary: Laney Hausler is currently attending classes at Metropolis University when he sees a boy with his face in the library. At first, he thinks he's seeing things. Later, he starts to realize something strange is going on.

Conner Kent lives off-campus with his friends, but he sees a boy who eerily resembles him, and he hires a private investigator to look into the life of his doppelganger.

Chapters: 1/?

Characters: Jonathan Lane Kent, Conner Kent, Eddie Bloomberg, Rose Wilson, Bart Allen, Cassie Sandsmark, Cissie King-Jones, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Meloni Thawne, Vic Sage, Slade Wilson

Relationships: Past KonBart

Additional Tags: Father-Son Relationship, Father-Daughter Relationship, No Powers AU, Found Family, Stalking, Family Secrets, No Powers AU, No Capes AU, Complicated Relationships, University AU, Roommates, Private Investigator, Twins, Multiple POV, First Person POV, Obsession, Psychological Drama, Complicated Relationships, Unrequited Love, Platonic Relationships

Chapter One: Move-In Day (Laney's POV)

Orientation and the move-in weekend started on Thursday. I spent my entire childhood in home school, but after weeks of begging, Father agreed to let me go away to college. It was the only time I’d ever been alone, so my departure was not without tears. Father set me straight, and he put me on the train. I waved until I could no longer see him, and my journey began. I slept in my train car for a few hours until the sun peeked through the blinds. I woke up and waited for breakfast. Father gave me a book to read to keep me busy, but I couldn’t focus on the words. I pulled my sketchbook out of my backpack and drew our house. It was a little bluish-grey house that you had to take a boat to get to. Just beyond the front door, our wooden dock and willows surrounded the home, almost swallowing our blue house up. I lived in isolation there with my father until I was old enough to sit quietly in his office and tend to my studies.

Father sat with me and worked on my reading between surgeries and consultations. He told me I required more attention than the public schools would’ve afforded me, and I saw things I wouldn’t have in a public school. I sat in on Father’s surgeries when I wasn’t doing homework or sleeping in his office. At home, I’d work on our land, and on weekends I’d make money selling produce at the farmer’s markets. Sugar cane, garden eggs, corn, carrots, and figs. All sorts of things. The farm and the hospital were all I knew. But I sat on the train, looking out the window at unfamiliar territory. I was far from Kansas. And the marsh. And our little bluish-grey house. And Father.

I ate breakfast in the dining car, watching the trees zoom past, wondering when it’d all stop. Smallville to Metropolis was a forty-hour trip by train, requiring a transfer. I was too nervous to travel by plane. But I always had lovely dreams about trains. My breakfast had too much sugar, but I didn’t mind. It gave me such a rush.

I returned to my car, finishing my sketch before listening to the audio for the book Father gave me. I tried to follow along, but I couldn’t stay awake long. I stopped the tape and lay on my stomach.

The train ride went smoothly, and from there, I lugged my suitcases to the nearest cab. The cabbie helped me load my luggage into the trunk. “Where to?” asked the cabbie.

“Metropolis University,” I answered.

“Long way from home?” he questioned.

“Mhm… All I wanna do is lie down in my dorm and sleep, but I’m thrilled-. I’m rambling,” I muttered.

“That’s alright. Most kids don’t wanna talk at all. These drives go a lot faster when you have someone to talk to,” he replied. So, we talked. Or at least I talked. When I arrived at the campus, I ran into a large crowd of people, and I grabbed a map from one of the tables. I’d never had a cellphone before because I never needed one, so I nearly forgot to text my new roommates to let them know I was on my way.

I sent a short message and received a call immediately. “Where are you? I’ll meet you there,” he said without so much as a greeting.

“Um… I’m at the big statue of the bulldog,” I replied, “And… I have a question. I hope you don’t think I’m rude for forgetting. It’s just that I don’t know how my phone works yet-.”

“You don’t remember my name. Do you?” he laughed. “That’s okay. It’s Eddie. You’ll remember it once you meet me in person.”

“Eddie. Right,” I smiled, “Um, I don’t wanna cause you any trouble. If you’re moving in, I can find-.”

“I see you! I think. You’re the one with the hat, right?” Eddie asked.

I looked around and tipped my hat. “Sure am,” I replied.

He tapped me on the shoulder, and I turned to see Eddie for the first time. I don’t think I ever would’ve expected to see the person I did. He was a ruddy ginger boy with blue eyes and a wide smile. “Rose would’ve come too, but she’s putting together furniture, so she’s not exactly in a pleasant mood… And she doesn’t read Swedish-.”

“I could help. I don’t read Swedish, but I’m a whiz at assembling furniture,” I interrupted without meaning to. Eddie laughed and led me to our dorm suite, which was more like a small house than a room. A girl sat on the floor with a cigarette in her mouth, cursing as she tried to assemble a bookshelf.

“Stupid old man and his stupid Swedish furniture. I hope I see that bitch in the street-.”

“Rose,” Eddie raised his voice. She put the unlit cigarette in its box and extended a hand to me. I shook her hand.

“I’m Laney… Um, you bought Swedish furniture from an old man?” I asked.

“No… My fucking dad ordered it as a character-building exercise. I should take this fucking deformed screwdriver-.”

“Allen wrench… It’s an-. I can put that together for you,” I offered, “I can put it together in less than twenty minutes.”

“Fuck yeah, I’ll order takeout. What do you eat?” Rose asked.

“Tacos,” Eddie whispered, “Say tacos.”

“Sure, I’ve never had tacos before,” I replied. Their jaws dropped and they stared at me in silence. “Well, I-. I um-. I lived in a small swampy town outside Smallville… And we didn’t eat out a lot.”

“Put the Alex wrench down. We’re going to find you the best tacos Metropolis has to offer,” Rose replied as she stood up. Eddie grabbed his car keys, and I followed them out the door.

“Oh, it’s no big deal-.”

“Laney, it’s a big deal for us,” Eddie interrupted.

They took me across town in Eddie’s car while Rose smoked a cigarette and looked at ratings for taco restaurants on her phone. “The best one is by S.T.A.R. Labs,” Rose replied, “Hey, Lane? What’s your major?”

“I’m Pre-Med. I wanna go into pediatric surgery,” I answered, “What about you guys?”

“I’m Women’s Studies, and Eddie’s a film major,” Rose answered.

I couldn’t remember much after that because I fell asleep. When I woke up, Eddie and Rose were in line. Eddie walked over and leaned in the window. “What kind of meat do you like? They’ve got chicken, pork, beef, lamb, fish, shrimp-.”

“I’ll have lamb,” I answered.

“Lamb… Okay,” Eddie replied, “Do you want a Coke?” I shook my head.

“I don’t drink pop… Um, I’ll have tea or fruit juice if they have any… And if they don’t, I’ll have water,” I replied. Eddie nodded and tapped the hood of the car.

Eddie and Rose came back to the car several minutes later with drinks and tacos. “You’re a real straight arrow, you know that?” Rose teased. “Do you have a problem with me smoking around you, because-.”

“No, it’s alright. I don’t mind. A lot of the doctors at my father’s hospital smoked cigarettes,” I replied.

“Your dad’s a doctor?” Eddie asked.

“Mhm, he’s a neurosurgeon,” I replied.

“Oh, shit… Is he pressuring you into Pre-Med? Slade almost blew a gasket when he found out I wanted to major in Women’s Studies,” Rose replied, “He’s military.”

“My dad’s a car salesman, but I don’t think he cares what I do. I’ve lived with my aunt for the past six years,” Eddie replied.

“Oh, my father and I are close… We did everything together,” I explained, "I think he wanted me to go into architecture instead, though."

"How come?" Eddie asked as he dipped his taco in sauce and took a bite.

"Surgery is high-stress, and he wanted me to stay closer to home," I replied. Rose gave me my to-go plate and a styrofoam sauce cup. I set the cup inside the lid of my container before dipping my taco like Eddie and taking a bite. It was spicy and savory with hints of lime. Not to mention the lamb. It was cooked to perfection, and the tortilla crunched wonderfully between my teeth. I made a noise and they fell into a fit of laughter.

"Good, huh?" Rose chuckled.

"It's amazing," I replied before taking another bite. I must’ve eaten ten tacos that night. I assembled the bookcase and unpacked after we got home, and I would’ve slept in my bed, but we all fell asleep on the couch after setting up Eddie’s bookcase.

[invisibleraven]

The more the merrier

A series of ficlets for @polyshipweek 2023

Day Five: Epistolary-Regal Jewelry <-AO3 link

Dearest Reginald,

We are well, considering the circumstances. I would ask if you are well, but I’m sure the conditions there are just ghastly. I hope you get the care package we’ve enclosed and it improves matters at least. Everything seems so quiet without you here dearest, and no matter how much pianoforte Carrie plays, nothing really fills the silence of your absence. Though I suppose you would live for a bit of silence given all the guns and cannons on your end.

I’ve been wandering the halls a lot, not knowing what to do with myself. There is only so much needlepoint I can do to distract me from the thoughts of you. It’s agony knowing you’re out there, fighting for God and your kingdom with no idea when it will all end. When you’ll be here with us once more. Everyone preaches patience, but they don’t seem to understand the pain of being separated from you.

I won’t ask how things are there, as I know you won’t answer, due to what you seem to think are my tender sensibilities. I just hope you are staying safe and you will return home soon. Just know you are missed here dearest and we are praying for an end to this idiotic conflict soon.

All my love,

Julie

PS: I made Jane smuggle a bottle of that blackberry jam you’re so fond of into the basket-treasure it for I fear the season for them is quite over.

~

Reggie,

I keep forgetting you’re away at war sometimes you know? I keep thinking that maybe you’re out riding Old Red-who is fine before you ask, we’ve been feeding and grooming him daily, and I think he misses you almost as much as we do. Or perhaps on a morning stroll through the gardens, maybe even asleep with a book in the library. Anywhere but where you are. Which is not with us, where you should be.

Flynn came to visit last week, if you couldn’t guess. Trying to raise our spirits I suspect. Or perhaps in search of a good gossip, she was always the type to have possession of the juiciest stories. Asked after you, and Luke. I think mainly because Robert has been pestering her, and he’d rather ask his employer than his own cousin. Why the both of you volunteered is beyond me, but I suppose the draft will come for us all eventually. I told her what I knew, hopefully that will set his mind at ease. Though I know I will not be eased until you’re home safe in our arms my sweet one.

Come home soon, I need a worthy croquet partner, as Julie is terrible at it and Flynn gloats too much to keep playing piquet with her.

Missing you fiercely,

Carrie

PS: I sent a book for you to read. I know you must not get much downtime, but I figured that if you did, it might keep your mind off the hell around you.

~

My darling girls,

I am only allowed so much post so you’ll have to forgive me for not sending you individual letters. I miss you both most ardently, so much that it aches. I would give anything to leave this muddy ravine and be home in your warm embrace once more.

Things here are hard, as it is cold and dirty. I have seen horrors I would not wish on the worst of men. But I know that I am fighting to keep us safe, to keep you both free. And that thought warms me enough to get through the frosty nights. Though a book or two of matches wouldn’t go amiss.

I hope that I should be home on leave soon, but I can make no promises. And yet even that brief respite will be bliss in order to see you both again. Even if I will have to return not long after. Keep strong my loves, I’ll be with you soon.

All my kisses,

Your Reg

PS: Please send more socks, and perhaps some chocolate, I can trade it for other goods.

~

Darling Reggie,

I wonder if this letter will reach the front before you do, as I am writing it right as you hop onto the train. It was so nice to have you home, even if our time together was short. I keep praying that this war will end soon, so you can be home for good. But then I question how any loving deity could allow such an awful conflict to occur in the first place.

Especially as I see the young men come back to flood the hospital. A gruesome sight, it turns the stomach. But I still go every day, to help. I can do that much so I stop feeling so useless in this whole thing. Carrie has voiced helping as well, but perhaps at the school instead. I’ve never known her to be interested in education or children, but I think this whole thing has given her a new perspective. Once this war is done, we all can be wed… well I know I wouldn’t mind a brood pattering around the halls not long after.

Come back soon my love, safe and whole. Just please-come back.

Te amo,

Julie

~

Sweetheart,

The last of the staff got called up today. We all wept when Bobby departed, but perhaps he and Luke will find each other on the battlefield. Perhaps he will be shipped home before either of them has a chance. I hope you return with them, your crooked grin as blinding as the sun.

The children at the school house don’t quite understand it, why their fathers and brothers are gone. Why some of them will never return. It breaks my heart trying to explain it to them. But I keep my tears at bay, keep strong for them. For Julie. For you.

I’ve knitted you a hat to wear. I know my knitting is atrocious, but I couldn’t bear to think of your head being cold as the winter months draw nearer. Be brave my love, but not foolish. Foolish men make poor bedfellows.

Besides, we have a wedding to look forward to after all.

XOXO,

Carrie

~

My dearest loves,

I hate this bloody war. The horrors I have been subject to-there are no words. Even as it ends, I know I return to you a broken man. For I can never unsee all the dying comrades in my arms. Too many to count as I tried valiantly and needlessly to save them. Never know what it is to have never taken a life. To know another’s blood is on your hands simply due to their geography.

I fear I will be haunted by this. My dreams are all nightmares of the battlefield, the smell of gunpowder and blood, the sounds of the cannons, the lieutenant shouting orders. The smoke and mud and death everywhere. I do not sleep much these days, but perhaps some fresh country air and your gorgeous smiles will help soothe me back to slumber.

I am writing to you from a hospital some ten leagues away. I hope to arrive home shortly after this letter does, so don’t rush to my side on any account. A bullet to the thigh, I’m afraid. I may need a cane to walk down the aisle come June. But rest assured, I am coming home to do so.

I don’t care if I have to crawl down that blasted aisle, I can’t wait until the three of us are wed.

I’ll see you soon my darlings,

Reggie

[ginisbetterthanfirewhisky]

hello!! I’m safa I love ginny myself and she’s a very lovely and lucky girl! I really relate to her <3! I’ve got a huge question that other people should know.

HOW much times has ginny cared for harry?

and please tell me why you love our read-headed hard-blazing girl! <3 I just love hearing it from you!!!

Hi! Thank you so much for the ask.

Ginny, despite having a crippling crush on Harry till her third year, has shown plenty of times that she does understand Harry, contrary to what many people think.

When she saw Harry for the first time at King's Cross station, she was naturally starstruck just like the rest of the Wizarding World. Heck, even rational, muggle born Hermione who hadn't even heard Harry's name until she read it in a book a month ago, couldn't stop having a celebrity moment around him. What about poor Ginny, who had probably heard stories of the great Harry Potter since she was a child?

I'm certain Ron must've talked a lot about Harry at home after coming back from his first year, and hearing all about Harry's heroics (that 11 year old Ron might have exaggerated) intensified that celebrity crush. But, you can see a stark difference between Ginny's behaviour around Harry in PS and CoS. In the first book, she is your average, squealing little fangirl who goggles at Harry and wants to get into the train compartment to see him up close. But in CoS, she is much quieter, clumsier and shier in his presence. Like an eleven year old girl with a crush on her older brother's cool best friend. That's not to say that she doesn't see him as a bit of a hero- of course she does, it's not like she really knows him, but she gets the general idea about him, and about the fact that he doesn't like the attention he receives (like when she defends him against Draco at Flourish and Blotts.)

Then, in PoA, she is much more awkward. Understandable, as he was the one who saved her life and all. On the train ride to Hogwarts, when the Dementors arrive, the two people who get affected the most are Harry and Ginny, who have both witnessed terrible things. In fact, JKR deliberately draws attention to this with the line "Ginny looked as bad as Harry felt." This sets a common chord between the two of them- both of them have been irreversibly touched by darkness. They understand each other. My favourite underrated moment between Harry and Ginny is when Ginny gives Harry a homemade get-well-soon card when he falls off his broomstick when Dementors enter the Quidditch pitch during the match against Hufflepuff. She knows how much the Dementors can affect you.

In the fifth book, Harry and Ginny display the "brooding/gentle" dynamic. Ginny is constantly described as a cheery, warm presence. (The "bright" imagery to describe Ginny was used by JKR as far back as CoS, where she "glows like the setting sun", has "bright" brown eyes and "blushes to the roots of her flaming hair"), in contrast to Harry's brooding one. When Harry is down after watching the Gryffindor vs Hufflepuff match from the sidelines after being banned from playing, it is Ginny who optimistically tries to cheer him up. She also reads his mind about Ron's performance (in fact, JKR deliberately draws attention to this and adds the phrase "as though reading his mind".) Then at Christmas, when he is worried about being possessed by Voldemort, she isn't scared of being firm with him and coolly calling him out. She does the same when he speaks rudely with her and Luna when they are about to go to the Ministry to rescue Sirius. She also knows when to be gentle and calm, and lend a ear, like in the library scene in the same book.

In the sixth book, Ginny is a reprieve from all the darkness around Harry. She is described as "his best source of comfort", and the time spent with her is "like something out of someone else's life". It is full of sunlit days and happiness away from Voldemort and the war. In DH, she is described as "blissful oblivion", and the brief period when they dated was like "stolen hours out of the life of someone without a lightning shaped scar". She is someone who inspires him to live for himself, not just to complete his duties towards the Wizarding World. Even in his (supposedly) last moments, Harry think of her.

Haha, I'm sure you didn't want to read such a long ramble, but I went off. :)

[renee-writer]

All's Fair Chapter 4

AO3

She and Susan sit eating breakfast. It is the next morning. 

 

“Susan, I am selling this house and moving to Inverness.”

 

“Really, wow! My husband and I would love to buy it.”

 

She smiles as she was hoping they would be interested in it. Someone who would love it and care for it, like she does.

 

“How about I let it to you for a year, then you can buy it?”

 

The other lady nods her head. “Perfect, that way if things don’t work out in Inverness, you can have this house to come back to.” That was exactly what she was thinking.

 

“Just so.”

 

Packing is more about deciding what not to. A lot will be returned to the museum, all the Egyptian artifacts. Claire believes they need to be returned home.

 

The books, or must of them, will be donated to the Oxford library. She keeps the botany books. 

 

Everything else, she leaves in the house for the use of Susan and her husband. Two boxes of personal stuff is all, bar the books, she is taking.

 

She decided that one thing she wants to pick back up doing once she is in Scotland, is cooking again. With that in mind, she pens a letter to Nubia inquiring about the spices she will need.

 

Jamie never meet Lambert Beauchamp  but has heard good things from Ned. He sits in his hotel room working on the final details of the Beauchamp estate. He soon has a whole stack of papers for Claire ‘s signature.

 

As the second son of the Laird, he knew from a young age that he would need to find his own profession. Reading the Law suit him. Ned and himself make a good team as they help the vulnerable of the Highlands.

 

He smiles as he thinks of his family. His mam, the strong Matriarch, starting over as a mammy again with the surprise birth of the twin, Angus and Fergus five years ago. She handles this with the same calm strength she handles everything else with.

 

She was spared the worry most mam’s experienced. Neither himself or his brother, William, had to serve in the war. Jamie was injured in a accident as a child, falling of his horse, messing up his back. William has a limp from his own childhood accident.

 

Spared, they make a point to help those not so blessed. Helping each other was the code of the Highlands. They put that code in practice, assisting the war created widows and orphans.

 

Lallybroch and the accompanying , Fraser’ s Ridge houses many of them. Work was found for as many as possible.

 

His da told him that was always the Fraser way. After the ill fated Raising, their ancestors had done the same.

 

His last day in Oxford and he has one more thing to do. It is a task he has been looking forward to.

 

He bows to her when she opens the door. “Miss Beauchamp.”

 

She smiles. “Claire please, Jamie.”

 

“Claire. I have the papers requiring your signature.” She invites him in.

 

“Please come in. I have some tea and scones prepared.” They take seats at her table and she starts to sign.

 

“Do you still wish to sell this house?” he picks up one of the scones.

 

“Not right away. I am letting it to Susan and her husband for a year first. I wish to be ready to leave in a month.”

 

He nods. “I will see Mary has it ready. Is there anything in particular you will need?”

 

“Yes, a ramp if there be stairs. Navigating them is still quite painful.”

 

“It will be done.” She smiles at him as she signs the last paper.

 

“Thank you.” He finishes the tea, wipes his mouth and hands, before gathering them back up.  She watches his ministrations and forces herself not to bite her lip.

 

“I live on a small croft in the property. You will let me know if you need anything.”

 

“I will. Thank you.” He  stands and she joins him. He places the paperwork back in his briefcase.

 

“I will see you in month.” She smiles. Her eyes draw him, as sparkling and intoxicating as his families best whisky. They are in his mind all the way to the train station. It will be a long train ride.

[ofpineapplesanddawns]

Oh yes, I also promised to write up a little thing based on these designs I did last night for Phileas and Will!

This is part of the Let The Adventure Begin au, so there is a mention to the ineffables. 

Enjoy!

On with the fic!

--

Will found his husband in his library, seated in a comfortable chair as he happily poured over the map he had received in the mail from Abigail and Passepartout from their current journey. He watched as Phileas adjusted his glasses, leaning in close, happily muttering something to himself before making notes on a different sheet of paper.

It was moments like this that had Will appreciating everything that had happened to him in the past ten years.

Ever since that train ride in Italy, where he had watched Phileas fly through the sky in the hot air balloon, his life has been better than anything he could have hoped for. He still wasn’t sure what it was about Phileas Fogg that had him throwing away his old life of flirting and one-night stands to spend his time romancing an anxious gentleman who was so far out of his element on his journey.

Never a day had gone by that Will had regretted his choice of taking Phileas’ hand on that first night and kissing it. Nor when he had listened to the man give a beautiful, soulful speech about love to save the life of a young groom, when Will had realized he had fallen in love with Phileas.

And the island, their secret spot away from the rest of the world, where so many things happened, both the good and the bad, and the amazing, when they shared their first kiss.

So much has happened since Phileas’ trek around the world in just eighty days, from more adventures and hijinxs, to a wedding when traveling through India once more. That had been an unexpected event, but Will had been caught up in the moment and had asked for Phileas’ hand, and he was forever thankful that Phileas had laughed, cried, and said yes.

True, they were not legally married in the eyes of the British government, but in a small village in India they were husbands. Rings are not worn, but Phileas had chosen to get his ear pierced just like Will’s, even though it resulted in Phileas having a minor panic attack because he worked himself up.

Will saw the earring that Phileas wore, golden in color, matching the one that Will himself wore now. He pushed himself away from the doorway he had been leaning against as he approached his distracted angel. His hair had grown out over the past year, just brushing against his shoulders now, he looked beautiful like this.

Will, in turn, was graying a bit, but he could make it look good. And it looked nice with the beard he was sporting now, and Phileas loved it. He leaned against the chair and toyed with a lock of long, brown hair, hearing a small ‘oh!’ from Phileas who turned to look up at him.

“Ah, dear, I didn’t hear you come in!” 

“Just got here.” Will shrugged, smiling. “Enjoying your package from our friends?”

“Oh yes, they sent us a map of a location where there is rumored to be a lost treasure! Do you think we should go for it, it’s been a few months since our last big trip.”

“Well, our anniversary is coming up.” Will put his hand on his hip, chuckling. “I’m sure I can arrange for a trip, I think Aziraphale still owes me a favor.”

“Oh, you just want him to pay for it.” Phileas laughed.

“Ah, true, but you know he will because he wants you to be happy!”

“Very true.” Phileas smiled, returning to the map, questioning aloud if Aziraphale and Crowley would like to come along, but then again, the trip should just be for himself and Will. 

Personally, Will wants the latter, he liked when he traveled alone with Phileas, it was more intimate, more for them than anything else. He took his husband’s hand, bringing it up to his lips. He saw the smile on Phileas’ face soften, this is what he deserved, this is what his life should be.

Happy, content, fun, and with someone who loves him so much that they’d travel the world with him. 

And Will was glad that he could continue to give his beloved angel this life.