#soloman goode

[mockup-vampyr]

Fear Street Headcannon that when you marry into the Goode family you have a normal wedding for show and then an actual satanic wedding afterwards.

[trickarrows-bishop]

what is it? the fucking rhyme? the fucking RHYME?!

fear street 1666 ; seven- taylor swift /// genius lyric analysis of seven- taylor swift /// sarah fier poem, fear street

[okcoolthanks]

Fucking, shit

Drawing more fucking fanart of fucking podcast that’s gonna get so many notes compared to my usual art stuff that I definitely spend more time on

Fuck

[starqueen87]

Solomon Brown: First African American Employee at the Smithsonian Institution

Solomon G. Brown (c.1829–1906) was the first African American employee at the Smithsonian Institution, serving for fifty-four years from 1852 to 1906. During his time at the Smithsonian, he held many titles and performed many duties in service to the Institution. He served under the first three Smithsonian Secretaries, Joseph Henry, Spencer Fullerton Baird, and Samuel P. Langley. He formed a deep personal friendship with Baird which is evident in the letters featured on this page. He also served his community in Anacostia, a part of Washington, DC, and was a prominent advocate of African American progress.

"I have engaged in almost Every Branch of work that is usual and unusual about S.I.," Solomon G. Brown.

These words, written to Secretary Baird on August 12, 1862, encapsulate his long and eclectic career at the Smithsonian Institution. In 1902, he wrote a poem commemorating his fifty years at the Smithsonian —spanning the Institution's formative years. Brown, born a free man when slavery was legal in Washington, DC, joined the staff of the Smithsonian shortly after it was founded in 1846.

Born around 1829, Brown was one of six children. With the unfortunate death of his father in 1833, Brown's chance of attending school and receiving a formal education was over. However, Brown began working for Lambert Tree, assistant postmaster with the DC post office. It was in this capacity that Brown first met Joseph Henry, the Smithsonian's first Secretary. Tree detailed Brown to work with Henry, Samuel B. Morse, and Alfred Vail, while they developed the first magnetic telegraph that ran from DC to Baltimore, Maryland.

In 1852, Brown was hired as a general laborer by the Smithsonian under Henry. Initially, he built exhibit cases, cleaned and moved furniture for the Institution, and shortly became the supervisor of a small group of Smithsonian workers. While working, Brown developed a close relationship with then Assistant Secretary Baird, a naturalist and later second Secretary of the Institution. The two worked together until Baird's death in 1887. Baird trusted Brown implicitly and when out of town, relied on Brown to be his "eyes and ears" of the Institution. Brown and Baird frequently corresponded about the operations of the Smithsonian, city events, and their personal lives, sharing a wry sense of humor about life. From these letters we learn that Brown entertained visitors, handled the mail, made travel arrangements, performed clerical duties, and paid the household staff for the Baird family in addition to his other numerous Smithsonian duties.

Brown also wrote to Baird during the Civil War, reporting on the events occurring around DC and the effects felt by the Smithsonian Institution. He described the dangers to Baird's property and delays in communication from Washington. In 1864, Brown wrote of the Confederate march on the city and his own exemption from the military draft. These letters provide the unique views of a free, African American man on the progress of the Civil War as it raged around him.

Although he lacked a formal education, Brown was considered a Renaissance man. While working for Baird, he educated himself in the field of natural history. He illustrated maps and specimens for many of Baird's lectures, as well as his own talks on topics such as "The Social Habits of Insects," and delivered them to church organizations and civic groups. Not only did he excel as a naturalist, but he was an illustrator, lecturer, philosopher, and poet. Brown also read his poetry, which focused on religion and the social issues of the day, to local audiences and civic organizations. After Baird's death in 1887, Brown served as a clerk for the Smithsonian International Exchange Service, distributing scholarly publications around the world.

Brown's activities also reached beyond the walls of the Smithsonian. Within his own Anacostia (Hillsdale) community, Brown was viewed as a leader. Brown and his wife Lucinda hosted picnics for their local community, one of which was attended by Frederick Douglass. He was elected to the DC House of Delegates, served as superintendent of the Pioneer Sabbath School and the North Washington Mission Sunday school, and was a trustee of the 15th Street Presbyterian Church. He was committed to bettering education and gaining opportunities for African American citizens.

A man of limitless energy, Solomon G. Brown continued to work at the Smithsonian, write and draw, as well as serve his community until his retirement on February 14, 1906. Not long afterward, Brown died at his home on June 24, 1906. Over a century has passed, yet Brown's devotion to the foundation of the Smithsonian is still remembered today. In 2004, several trees were planted around the National Museum of Natural History in his honor.

[billybatsonbrainrot]

Has anyone asked about “gods body swap” yet?

Hello! :) You're the first to ask about "Gods Body Swap"! It's an identity reveal fic.

It starts off with the Justice League fighting a villain with magical psychic powers. The villain, about to lose, decides to body swap the whole justice league. However, Captain Marvel always had mental barriers strong enough to cause headaches to anyone who tried to enter his mind. Or at least Billy's, because their power goes past Billy and onto the six gods that gave him his powers.

Now the gods have been body swapped with the justice league and Billy stays the same. But the justice league is now in his head where the gods are supposed to be, and everyone is freaking out. The gods and Billy are able to defeat the villain because their powers transferred over with their consciousness. They find out after the fight that the effects will last a week at max.

This of course, causes more freaking out among the league. They didn't even know Cap had literal voices inside his head. And they belonged to gods!? They're not even in anyone's physical body, just floating around Cap like ghosts.

At least there's some good news. The gods, since they're gods and weren't physically here just more of an astral mind projection that come and go as they please, can actually go back into their original bodies. None of the members have to worry their reputation or relationships in their personal life being ruined. And Billy won't have to worry about looking after them.

They leave the JL members' bodies in the med bay.

The Justice League, however, are not gods. Something is blocking them from entering their own bodies.

Which means Billy is left with:

Batman as Soloman

Superman as Hercules

Green Arrow as Atlas

Wonder Woman as Zeus

Green Lantern as Achilles

Flash as Mercury

And Billy wants to find a way to help them right away. But first-...well first he has to go home and have dinner because he promised Rosa he'll be home by 7. And he actually has a test tomorrow, so he can't miss school. He's actually busy the whole week, so finding a faster way won't even matter in the end.

The justice league is left with no other choice but to follow him around as spectators, only allowed to make commentary.

At first, they were intrigued when Cap said he had a personal life to get back to. Now they can do nothing as they come to the horrifying realization that their coworker is a legitimate child. And then they find out that his siblings are too.

They are also interested in Billy's school life. Who said high school drama isn't entertaining? At least his grades aren't slipping.

[1313ablackcat1313]

Herbs and Their Purposes

Going through some of my witchy journals and sharing things that I have collected over the years.

Amaranth: reduces swelling, helps stomach flu symptoms, repairs broken hearts Angelica: aids colic, helps hepatitis symptoms, protects your home and garden Basil: eases stomach cramps, eases insect bites and stings, helps reduce fevers, banishes negativities, aids in keeping love Bee Balm: makes a sedative tea, attracts fairies Calendula: helps gum disease, encourages psychic development Chamomile: helps insomnia, eases sores, attracts money, protects home, aids meditation Comfrey: heals wounds, bruises, and broken bones, provides travel protection Daisy: helps headaches, brings good luck Dandelion: detoxifies liver, promotes circulation, aids clairvoyance Eucalyptus: works as insect repellent, aids health, provides purification Garlic: works as a natural anti-biotic, dispels negativity, protects the house Heather: suppresses coughs, aids sleep, guard against violent crime Hyssop: aids lung ailments, used in purification baths Lavender: eases nervous tension and stress, used in healing incenses and sachets Lemon Balm: eases bee stings, headaches and colds, used in healing and friendship spells Marjoram: helps asthma symptoms, cough, strengthens intestines, eases grief, protects home Myrrh: works as a powerful antiseptic, used to consecrate and purify ritual tools Patchouli: eases dysentery, diarrhea, and nausea, wards off evil Rose: nourishes skin, purifies blood, aids in love spells Sage: eases laryngitis symptoms and stomach troubles, aids in spiritual purification, banishes evil Soloman's Seal: helps tuberculosis symptoms, helps diabetes symptoms, used in cleansing Spearmint: makes a facial astringent, used in spells for courage Star Anise: eases stomach disorders, wards off evil eye St. John's Wort: helps depression symptoms, heals wounds, banishes negativity Thyme: used as an antiseptic, if used in a pillow it wards of nightmares Witch Hazel: eases insect bites and burns, twigs used for diving, mends broken hearts Wormwood: helps ease liver and bladder symptoms, aids clairvoyance Yarrow: stimulates the liver, eases toothache, wards off negativity, repels fear Yellow Dock: purifies blood, aids in spells for happy homes

****DISCLAIMER**** Do NOT take internally with out a doctor's supervision. Misuse can be FATAL. Do not ingest if allergic. Please see a doctor for all ailments described above.

[ind1c0lite]

(Basic context is that AU of Duel Desinties where the phantom impersonates Phoenix to get him found guilty of Clay's murder, I talk more under the cut abt it jkhlj)

-Basically meant to be a parallel to turnabout trump, cause if you can have ONE boss get found guilty of murder, why not a second one?

-OK basically: everything in DD happens normally until like- a day before clays murder, Phoenix gets yoinked by the phantom somehow (he is still alive, just being held captive), Phantom is still Fulbright, but they've decided to be silly goofy (target Phoenix and get him found guilty of murder, escape police custody and then murder phoenix and make it seem like Phoenix accidentally died while on the run, thats why they didn't kill phoenix right away unlike the real Fulbright) there is an imposter amo-

-I dont have the logistics as to how this affects solving Metis's murder, and how it effects what evidence is used n whatnot and turnabout for tomorrow as a whole, so im just going nuts HGJKHLJ

-Originally I was actually imagining this taking place during turnabout for tomorrow and I wanted that case to be apollo v klavier instead of phoenix and edgeworth and thats why klav is in here instead of Simon (I decided that Simon got badly injured and couldn't stand in court for the retrial, so klavier was asked to step in)

-The courtroom bombing still happens the same way it does normally, but Apollo decides to take up the case again instead of taking a leave, instead of like, you know, healing from the traumatic event that just happened, turnabout countdown still happens as well

-Apollo and Athena do not find out about the phantom's existence until well after this trial, so they have no idea that Phoenix could've possibly been replaced, though simon, after hearing about the trial, might be suspicious about whether or not that was the real Phoenix

-The Phantom had been not only keeping an eye on Simon for a while, but was also stalking Phoenix and Edgeworth after they both started looking into UR-1, so they were able to impersonate phoenix so well that not even his own daughter thought that anything was up (though while Trucy did find him a *little* bit off, but she figured that it might've been the bombing that caused him to act ever so slightly weird, so she didn't pay much mind to it until she heard about his confession in court and realized it might've been because he possibly, ya know, killed someone)

-it's pretty much just switching Athena being framed for murder with Phoenix, and instead of the trial ending on a cliffhanger, it continues on (probably with Klavier insisting on it) ending with soloman being found innocent and Phoenix being declared guilty

-There's a couple days inbetween the end of the cosmic turnabout and the start of turnabout for tomorrow, so Athena, Apollo and Trucy all get a little bit to process the fact that "oh god my boss/my dad killed someone" (simons execution date is pushed back a bit in this au) and they probably get to talk with Klavier and eventually a lil bit with Simon after he gets out

-Im not sure how it all winds down in turnabout for tomorrow (Phoenix escaping and being at large is basically the perfect cover for the phantom to resume being fulbright for that trial) but they do eventually realize that the phoenix who confessed wasn't the real one and now there's a search on going to find out where the real one is being held captive, hes fineeee just ready to take a week long nap and a good vacation (along with every other waa member)

-I dont have anything else to add on rn but if you want to add something or just throw in a scenario feel free to!! this idea has been bouncing around my head for like a month now and Im very happy to finally show yall it

[mrsbrookemunson]

*~Insecure~* | S.S. x Gryffindor!MC

I wrote this in my journal about a month ago, and I thought it was time to share it - I hope you enjoy it. 

Warnings: *Not proofread* Angst with a fluffy ending, insecurities (on Sebastian’s side), ‘MC’ insert, fem!reader (she/her pronouns, referenced as girl), Gryffindor!MC (it’s for the plot), Leander slander (I’m sorry), mentions of food/not eating (hint at an ED, but can be taken a lot of other ways too), Imelda Reyes, Ominis x Anne, Ranrok doesn’t really exist as well as Rookwood, Professor Fig is alive, Anne is not cursed, Soloman is still alive - it’s a good little alternative universe. 

Word Count: 4674

Sebastian stared at his reflection in the full length mirror in his dorm with a rather large frown. It was now finally the weekend, and he had made plans with MC for a Hogsmeade trip. But, at this point he nearly had forgotten as the time was irrelevant, not knowing how much has went by. 

He couldn’t stop. Analyzing every one of his features. The way his nose was a little too flared, the way his cheek were slightly too chubby, and Merlin his freckles - his freckles were just... everywhere. And suddenly he thought - how can she look at me? Did she think all of these things when she stared at her for a moment too long for his liking? 

He always squirmed under her gaze. 

“Sebastian,” Ominis called out.

“Yes?” he sighed. 

“What are you doing? MC’s been waiting outside like a sad puppy waiting for you.” 

Two responses ran through his mind that would inevitably lead to different outcomes, he opted for the rather unfortunate one. “Tell her ‘I’m sorry, but I’m not feeling well’.” 

“Not feeling well? But, last night you wouldn’t stop blabbering about how excited you were for this trip.” 

“Must’ve come in the night - a bug, no doubt.” 

Ominis seemed to look rather disappointment in Sebastian. “Alright then... I’ll see to it.” With that, he leaves. 

When MC heard the news, her shoulders caved in a little, her body a slump as she sulked. “Oh...” she paused. “Did he say what he thinks it is?” 

“A bug - I’m sure he’ll feel better late after some rest.” His words seemed rather forced as if he weren’t sure he believed them himself. 

“Should I go check on him?” 

Ominis shook his head. “Nest to leave it be. I’ll escort you.” 

“And be you and Anne’s third wheel? I’m sorry, but I’ll have to pass.” 

He scoffed, “Oh c’mon - we aren’t near the level you and Sebastian are on, and I have to deal with the two of you everyday.” 

She sighed, “Fine.” 

“I’ll go grab Anne.” 

MC kicked at the ground in defeat.

“Ditched now, are we?” 

She grimaced, looking up at the owner of the voice. Leander. “Oh, no - Sebastian is feeling under the weather.” 

“Sounds like an excuse to me.” 

MC bit her tongue - she cannot talk back to someone from her own house. She cannot. But, oh... did she want to. 

“If I were dating you - I’d never dare to be away from you - even for a second. It makes it easier - us being in the same house, doesn’t it?” He dryly chuckled. “I mean a Gryffindor and a Slytherin?” 

“I don’t believe in house compatibility, nor stereotypes, nor house supremacy.” 

“Still, it doesn’t make sense. And you just had to pick the worst of them.” 

MC was now fuming. “The worst?!” she scoffed. “I’m sorry, but for someone who as you’ve said before, thinks highly of me - you sure don’t trust my judgment.” 

“I’m just thinking about what’s best for you, that’s all.” 

“What’s best for me?! And let me guess, you think you’re what’s best for me?” 

He shrugged. “Maybe.” 

“Well, you’re wrong. And it’s not your choice. And for the record...” She groans in frustration. “Sebastian is more than a Slytherin, he’s a person, a good person, who’s respectful, and generous, and loyal - Ha! He’s a better excuse of a Gryffindor than you’ll ever be!” She straightens her corset. “Now, if you don’t mind - not that I’d care if you did - I’ll be on my way.” She turns around. Her body froze when in front of her stood Anne, Ominis... and Sebastian. All with equally shocked expressions.

Her eyes widened. “Sebastian!” She awkwardly played with her hair. “Ominis told me you’ve fallen ill.” 

He stared at her for a moment before clearing his throat. “Yes - well - right - I’m feeling a little better now.” He attempted a casual smile. 

“Oh! Are you - are you sure?” She walked up to him, concern written all over her. She pressed the back of her hand to his forehead. She frowned. “You don’t feel warm.” She cupped his face, and analyzed his eyes and features for any sign of sickness. “And you don’t look pale.” 

That little voice in his head was going off the longer she took him in. 

“Yes, well...” He removed her hands, and held them in his own. “Like I said - I’m feeling better.” 

Her gaze held suspicion. “Very well, shall we be off.” 

He nodded and linked arms. The couple fell beside Anne and Ominis as they began to walk to Hogsmeade. 

“Why can’t we use floo powder?” Ominis asked. 

Anne nudged his stomach with her elbow before looking toward MC with wide smile. “Can I just say what you did back there was brilliant!” Anne started. “Putting Leander in his place.” 

MC glanced at Sebastian. “I only said the truth.” 

Sebastian’s cheeks turned a light shade of pink. 

When they got to Hogsmeade, Sebastian turned to Brooke. 

“Where to first?” 

MC gasped with excitement. “Oh! The sweets shop!” 

He chuckled. “Lead the way.” 

She grabbed his hand, wasting no time dragging him along to Honeydukes. When they got there she immediately went to the chocolates section.

“Oh ‘Bastian look!” He peered over her shoulder. “They have those bon bons you like so much.” She picked up a box. “I’ll get us a box to share.” She turned her head and pecked his cheek then ran off to go pay.

His eyes flickered around the shop, but when a laugh cuts through the air, his attention is immediately back on the girl laughing at something the owner of the shop had said. 

“Thank you,” he heard her say to the worker.

Should he have paid for it? He thought for a brief moment.

“What were you laughing about?” he asked. 

She waved it off. “Oh, something about me paying - but I said you weren’t feeling well this morning. So, I bought these - which is true.”

He should’ve bought them. 

“Let me pay you back at least... how about with a... butterbeer?” He raised an eyebrow.

“How could I say no?” They linked arms again. 

They walked out. 

“Remember when I took you here on your first day? Still can’t believe Professor Weasley trusted me of all people to be your guide.” 

She smiled at him. “What if I told you it technically wasn’t her decision?” 

“Hm?” He tilted his head toward her. 

She became flustered. “Well, it was either you or Natty and I might’ve chose you...” 

“You never told me that,” he whispered. 

It was quiet, and she could sense that Sebastian had something to say, but she beat him to it.

“If we flashback to earlier that day.- I beat you in that duel.” 

He groaned, softly. “I’ll never live that down.” He laughed. 

“We have a lot of interesting memories together,” she said.

“Oh?” 

“Like you completely rejecting me.” 

He looked at her in alarm. “I thought you were over that.” 

“I am!” 

He gave her a look of disbelief. “You know how horrible I still feel - ” 

“Sebastian! I swear to Merlin it’s okay - it’s in the past - and I understand why you did it, so... no hard feelings.” 

He grumbled. “You should hold a grudge.” 

“Well, I don’t.” She intertwined their fingers. “Because I have you now, and that’s all that matters.” 

Sebastian pulled away for a second to open the door to The Three Broomsticks. “After you, m’lady.” 

She clicked her tongue. “Such a gentlemen.” 

He smirked, following her in afterward. “I try to be,” he paused. “Why don’t you go pick out a table and I’ll get us drinks.” 

“Okay!” She walked off.

His eyes caught her run into Anne and Ominis, sitting down with them. 

“Mr. Sallow, a pleasure to see you here, what can I do for you?” 

Sebastian looked at Sirona with a small smile.” Hello, Sirona, pleasure to see you as well - can I get two butterbeers?” He glanced at MC. “And a pumpkin pasty - please.” 

MC’s laugh spiraled through the room. It made his stomach flutter and his heart speed up a little. He could get drunk off of the sound. 

“I don’t mean to pry, but are you two still courting?” Sirona asked. 

“We are,” he said, proudly. He couldn’t take his eyes off his two favorite girls giggling and smiling as if it were the best day of their life.

“Glad to see it, you two are lucky to have each other. Since the day you came into here the day of that troll attack...” She clicked her tongue a few times. “I know love when I see it - you pick up on one or two things in this business.” She smiled, warmly, setting down the drinks and the pasty.

He smiled back at her, setting down a handful of galleons. “Feels like only yesterday, honestly.” He started to juggle their order in his hands. “Thank you, Sirona.” 

“Any time.” Her voiced dragged in his ears as he walked away. But, he could hear the small chuckle escape her and he could only imagine her shaking her head. 

He managed to get over to the table where Ominis, Anne, and MC were sitting at without causing an accident.

“Ugh - I wish you were in Slytherin sometimes, we could have so much fun together in the common rooms.” 

“Not to mention she does look good in green.” Sebastian winked, setting down her drink down in front of her. “I also got you a little extra something.” He set down the pasty.

Her eyes lit up. “Oh, Sebastian, you shouldn’t have!” 

“I have a debt to pay off, you know,” he said, jokingly. 

“At this rate you’d still owe her a thousand pasties and a thousand butterbeers,” Ominis commented. 

“Make it two thousand,” Anne added. 

Sebastian laughed, awkwardly. “Thank you for that guys,” he said through his teeth. 

MC rolled her eyes, playfully. “You don’t owe me anything, Seb. I am perfectly satisfied with just having you.” 

And there goes his cheeks again. Heating up into a blush. 

Ominis made a noise of disgust. “A perfectly good appetite gone.” 

“Oh shush - ” Anne gently nudged him. “I think it’s cute.” 

Sebastian sits down next to MC. She was digging into her pasty, moaning and groaning in delight of the flavor.

Ominis shook his head. “You could at least have the decency to do that away from civilization.” 

MC froze in embarrassment, looking sheepish. “Sorry!” She ripped a piece off, holding it out for Sebastian. 

He delightfully took the offer. His brain short-circuited when her finger brushed his bottom lip. He taunted her by mimicking her, dramatically. “Oh - OH - that is good!” 

Anne giggled. 

“You know what? I agree with Ominis,” MC said with mocked bitterness. “This is getting too far, and my appetite is gone.”

“No, no!” Sebastian swallowed with a hearty laugh. “What have you eaten today?” 

She looked at him, reluctantly. “A pumpkin pasty...” 

His look got serious. “MC...” 

“M’sorry, okay? I was worried about you when you didn’t show for breakfast.” 

He grumbled under his breath and stood up abruptly. “Let me get you some real food.” 

She grabbed his hand. “Seb, it’s okay - this is plenty.” 

He shook his head, brushing her off, and storming off to the counter. 

Anne meets MC’s pout. “It’s only because he cares.” 

“I know,” MC replied. “I shouldn’t known, wouldn’t kept my mouth shut,” she paused. “I’m not even that hungry.” As if on cue, her stomach growled. Her expression faltered. “I just - he shouldn’t need to worry about me to the point where he needs to prove himself to me - I love him - a little too much if you ask me.” 

Anne grabbed her hand. “Then maybe it’s time to remind him of that.” 

MC nodded. “You’re right, it’s just hard.” 

Ominis tilted his head. “How so?” 

“you know I don’t believe in the whole house system, but others do - I mean if we were wearing our robes right now people would look at us like we were crazy, red in a sea of green. Remember last time I attempted to go into the Slytherin common room?” Anne winced at the memory. “Yeah, exactly - I can’t get him truly alone.” 

“There’s the undercroft - ”

“What about the Room of Requirement?” Ominis suggested. 

MC perked up. “This would be a time of need.” She thought hard about it. “Thank you, Ominis.” 

A plate clamored down in front of her.

“Shepherds pie - you told me you were craving it the other day,” Sebastian said, taking his seat again. (Have any of you tried the shepherds pie at Universal? I remember it being so good.)

MC turned to face him. She leaned in and pressed her lips up against his, gently. He made a noise of surprise, but regained composure almost immediately and kissed her back. He closed his eyes and indulged in the lingering pumpkin and spice flavor on her lips.

She pulled away. “Thank you,” she whispered. She turned away to dig into her food.

Anne and Sebastian gave each other knowing looks.

Sebastian breathes out, “I should get you shepherds pie more often...” He licked his lips, and glanced at her lovingly. 

He noticed her picking at it a few times and she only got halfway through it before saying she was full.

Sebastian’s eyebrows furrowed. “Are you sure?” 

She nodded. “Yes.” 

“Want to take the rest of it to go, at least?” 

“Would it make you feel better if I did?” 

“Yes, definitely.” 

“Then I’ll take the rest of it!” 

He smiled. “I’ll go grab you a box for it.” He leaves. 

MC’s curiosity grew, thinking back to earlier this morning. “I wonder what made him feel ill this morning - he seems perfectly healthy.” 

“It’s Sebastian - could’ve been anything,” Ominis noted. 

She shrugged. “I guess you’re right.” 

He comes back with a box. “Here you go, darling.” 

“Thank you.” 

She scoops the rest of her food into the box.

“Shall we head back?” Sebastian asks. 

“Sure!” MC stands. “Joining us?” she inquired toward Anne and Ominis.

Anne looked toward Ominis for an answer. He sits there quietly, until.the silence alarms him. “Oh! Why do I have to decide that?” 

Anne sighs, “We’ll catch up with you later.” 

MC is about to respond, but Sebastian gets to it first. 

“Suit yourselves.” He places a hand on the small of her back. “We’ll be on our way.” 

They walk out, hands now intertwined. Sebastian holding her food in his other hand. 

“That was fun,” she said as they begin their walk back to the castle. 

“It was...” 

“I’m glad you were able to come - it wouldn’t have been near as fun without you. How are you feeling by the way?”

He glanced at her. “I feel fine.” 

“What do you think it was?” 

He shook his head with a small shrug. “No idea.” 

“Hm...” 

“Don’t worry about it, ‘kay?” he paused. “So... about this morning - ”

“What about it?” 

“You know what I’m talking about.” 

Her posture straightened with pride. “He had no right to speak that way - about you, our relationship... it wasn’t right.” 

“So... you meant everything?” 

“Everything,” she breathed out.

A calm silence filled the air. No tension, no worries - just peace within each other’s presence. 

“So, I was thinking...” she started. 

“Oh?” 

She continued, “I was thinking - maybe - you’d want to sneak off to the Room of Requirement with me tonight?” 

He began to choke, violently coughing as his face turned red. 

She grew flustered as well. “Oh bloody Hell - not like that!” she scolded, reading his mind. “I just - we rarely get time alone.” 

He looked around. “We’re alone right now.” 

“No, I mean, really alone. No distractions, no - ” A lady frantically ran by, clutching her chest, crying. “That.” She cleared her throat. “Just me and you.” 

“Well, what about the Undercroft? Or we can sneak into the restricted section of the library? Or - ” 

She groaned. “Why are you arguing with me about trying to get us some alone time?” 

“I’m not arguing!” he corrected.

“You’re just being stubborn.” 

“Not true...” 

“Listen, just forget I said anything.” She shook her head and kept her eyes trained forward.

“No, no, let’s talk this out - so, you’re wanting some one-on-one time - I get it, but why today?” he paused. “You haven’t talked about this before.” 

She sighed. “Didn’t think it was a crime - wanting to spend time with my partner.” 

“Darling, that’s not - ” He inhales, sharply. “You know more than anyone how much I love being with you and spending time with you - I’m just a little curious is all - why you’re being so prominent about it now of all days.”

“Like I said - just forget it... please.” 

He nodded. He linked their arms to pull her closer to him. He tilted his head ever-so-slightly toward her. “I’d love to sneak off to the Room of Requirement with you tonight,” he whispered in her ear.

She let out a soft smile, meeting his doe-eyes once. “Okay,” she whispered back.

He returned a breathtaking smile. “Perfect.” 

The castle was growing bigger the closer they got. 

“Big game coming up.” 

She smiled. “Gryffindor against Slytherin - who are you rooting for?” 

“Gotta support my house - but you know I’m always secretly rooting for you.” 

“Oh!” she gasped, raising her eyebrows. “What would your people have to say about that? You’ve gone soft.” 

“My people?!” He looked offended. “And I have not gone soft - if we were sentenced to duel right now, don’t think you’d get away easily.” 

“I’ll hold you to that.” She pulled away when they got to the doors. “This is where I part.” She grabbed her leftover food from his hands.

He frowned. “I’ll see you later then.” 

“Yes! I’ll meet you outside your common room at - let’s say - twelve?” 

He nodded. “Till then.” 

MC leaves. When she rounded the corner, disappearing, Imelda walks up to Sebastian. 

“Surprised to see you two still at it.” 

Sebastian looked at her, confused. “What do you mean?” 

“A Gryffindor and a Slytherin? Sounds like a doomed relationship to me.” 

“Doomed? well... you’re wrong.” 

“Just give it time. Those Gryffindors - they always have to prove they’re better than us. Soon enough - you’ll be nothing more than a competition and if I learnt anything over my time being here at Hogwarts - it’s that Slytherins always have a way of losing.” 

His eyes narrowed as Imelda walked away. Deep down he knew none of what she said was true, but still - his mind wandered. Was their relationship really doomed? And had it been from the start? He thought back to the beginning, but can’t seem to find solid evidence. Sure, they would bicker at each other from time-to-time - but even then he was down bad for her that it came off more like bantering. But, then he broke her heart. Now that was something he’d rather not think about right now (It’s a long story.) He found his mind wandering over MC’s biggest belief. That a house doesn’t determine someone’s path. And a house shouldn’t determine how you see people, it shouldn’t affect anything... it’s wrong. It’s like judging someone based off looks, color, size, sexual orientation, the list goes on... And if Sebastian was being honest with himself - he slowly realized that maybe she was right. ‘Cause Merlin... she wasn’t just a Gryffindor - in this case she was also a Ravenclaw, a Hufflepuff - and Hell - even a Slytherin. And maybe that’s where he felt so small. Because in his mind - he was only a Slytherin - and he loathed the thought of what everyone assumed was his dark path in the future that he truly didn’t want. But, he felt it. He’s scared that it really is true and he’ll lose MC, Ominis, and Anne for good one day. The thought made him sick. 

Does he know when to stop? He worried he doesn’t. 

“There you are,” she breathed. “You’re late, thought you accidentally fell asleep or something.” 

Had he really been stuck in his head for so long? “I’m sorry.” 

“It’s okay.” She took his hand. “Let’s go.” 

She guided him through the dark, empty halls of the school. Up the stairs and down some, then back up again. (Don’t get me started on that “Off on another adventure” lady.) Then there it was. She looked around before opening the door, and signaling to him to come in.

“I’m surprised,” she started. “That was surprisingly easy.” 

“I’m not complaining,” he said.

Suddenly a door appeared. 

She looked over at it, curiously. “Interesting...” She walked over and opened it. “Wow...” 

“Find something?” He walked up to her and peeked over her shoulder. 

A room, dim-lit by a roaring fireplace. A sofa, displaying pillows and blankets. She ventured further in.

“Now this is something.” She felt so warm and cozy in the atmosphere the room created for them. 

He followed her in. “And this place just conjured this?” 

“It creates what you need.” She sat down on the sofa. “I brought the chocolates by the way,” she said, pulling them out of her bag and setting them on the coffee table in front of her. 

He sat down beside her. This caused her to avert her gaze to his face, staring at him with such a passionate intensity, one adorned by pure love. 

He shifted in his spot. And there he was, back standing in front of his mirror, staring at his reflection. “What are you doing?” he blurted. 

She was taken aback. “Admiring you.” 

The urge to scoff bubbled in his throat. “Is that it?” 

She frowned. “Is everything alright, Sebastian?” 

He couldn’t help it, the words were on the tip of his tongue, it was no use attempting to hold them back. “Are we a doomed relationship?” 

Oh.... how he wished he didn’t look at her. His heart sunk at the sight of hurt on her features. Immersed in sadness. He knew in that moment, this expression will haunt him in his nightmares once again - the same expression she shared with him all that time ago when he rejected her.

“What?” she whispered. “Is that what you believe?” 

“Imelda said - ”

“Imelda?!” She grew frustrated. “You’re taking her opinions into consideration now?” 

“Yes!” he paused, his shoulders caved in. “No...” He looked down at his shaking hands. “I don’t know! Maybe they’re right... Imelda, Leander - I mean, a Gryffindor and a Slytherin?” 

“Bloody Hell!” she groaned. “Are you hearing yourself right now? Agreeing with Leander of all people! What’s gotten into you?” 

“Nothing! I’m just saying - ”

“What?! What are you possibly trying to say?” She got up and paced around. “Because, it sounds like you’re trying to break up with me - ” She sighed. “You’ve been distant and I don’t.know why, but I know this isn’t you, so please...” She stopped and knelt down in front of him. “Talk to me.” 

It was as if the dam broke and all came pouring out. Tears ran down his face while she was quick to engulf his into her arms, taking a place close next to him. He cried into her shoulder.

“I’m sorry!” he hiccuped.

“Shhh - it’s okay...” She rubbed his back, soothingly. 

He pulled away. “No, it isn’t - I just - I’ve been feeling so insecure lately, and.everyone is getting into my head.”

“What do you mean insecure?” 

He sighed, avoiding her worried expression. “You’re.- you’re so good. You’re kind and loyal and smart and talents and so open-minded, and you see the world so... differently, so beautifully. While I’m just... me.”

“I’m not quite following.” 

He laughed, humorlessly. “Don’t you see?! I’m - I’m not right for you. I’m not good... I’m flawed and ugly and I’m so confused on how you can simply just look at me half the time.” He covered his face with his hands. “Because every time I look in the mirror I can’t stand what I see.” 

Her heart ached, and her own tears were running now her face. “Oh, Sebastian... When I look at you - “ She sighed. “Merlin, words don’t describe it. Sebastian - you’re beautiful - inside and out...” 

He shook his head. He felt her soft hands grip his wrists, gently pulling his hands away. His eyes met hers. 

She gazed, longingly into his blood-shot eyes. Its brown color seemed much more prominent as they were entirely a shade darker, nearly black. But, there was still that rush of sweet honey that swirled around his iris’. “You are beautiful,” she repeated. “Yes, you have flaws, but so does everyone else in the world - you don’t know how many times I’ve - ” She cuts herself off. “The point is - we all have out insecurities, we all have our imperfections, but it’s those that makes us individuals.” She frowned a little deeper when his expression didn’t change. “Tell me,” she blurted.

“What?” he croaked. 

“Tell me what you don’t like.” 

“MC - no - ”

“At least one thing, one thing that you wish you could change.” 

Reluctantly, he gave in with defeat. “My nose...” 

She gasped, scandalized. “What?! This cute little button nose that I could kiss all day long?” She pecked the tip.of his nose. “Wish I could steal it, honestly.” Her bore into his. “What else?” 

He was too enchanted by her to even realize he continued. “My cheeks - they’re too chubby.” 

“Nonsense - ” She cupped his face. “To be honest I’m not into crazy cheekbones and jawlines. Yours is a perfect balance and I love them because I can do this!” She littered his cheeks his kisses, he almost let out a giggle but managed to hold back

He released a breath, that came out dreamily. “My freckles -  ” he blurted whilst she was in the midst of cutely assaulting his cheeks. “They’re just - mmm - ” His eyes closed. 

Her lips pressed to his in a longing kiss before moved them down, in more of a drag to kiss along his jaw, tracing the outline of his face with her lips, she went up to his temple, then to his forehead - at this point he was dizzy and breathless. 

“I would spend eternity counting every one, creating constellations that only I’d ever have the pleasure of knowing about...” she paused. “Sebastian Sallow, I am in love with you, every part of you  that most of the time I don’t know what to do.” 

“Don’t stop.” 

“Hm?” 

“Don’t ever stop being in love with me.” 

She gazed at him in awe. “Never,” she whispered.

“I’m sorry for making you think I wanted to break up with you, it’s just - ”

She stopped him. “Hey, I understand, it’s easier for people to get into our heads when we’re in a vulnerable state. But, please just promise me the next time you feel like this you’ll come talk to me.” 

He nodded, hastily. “I promise.”

“Good.” 

His eyes glanced over at the chocolates. She caught it and widely smiled. She grabbed the box and leaned into Sebastian’s side. As they cozied up together, they found themselves enjoying the presence of each other along with the warmth of the fire. They both listened carefully to each other’s breathing, melting together into the sofa in a state of pure bliss and relaxation.

She took a chocolate out of the box and held it up for him. “Open up.” 

He gladly did, taking the thing whole. “We should do this more often,” he said with a mouthful of chocolate.

They laid down slightly, getting more and more comfortable with each minute passing. 

She plopped a chocolate into her mouth. “I could get used to this.” 

And there is was. Sebastian’s mind went down a new path for his future, one where him and MC lived together far away in a little cottage. Her in his arms all the time, getting to wake up next to her every morning, feeding each other sweets after supper by the fire. Maybe even a family... Whatever or wherever, he knew one thing - he wanted her to be there.

“Yeah...” he breathed. “I could get used to this too.” 

If you’d like to be apart of my Sebastian Sallow taglist let me know!

| @snickette​

| Requests open |

[artistic-moth-man]

My school newspaper didn't allow me to publish this hat investigation article so im posting it here instead

Most students are aware wearing a hat in school is just as much of a crime as vandalism of a classroom. I’m certain many students have stopped to ask themselves, “Why is this such a big deal?” and I’m even more certain the teachers would answer “it’s just tradition”. We all know, however, that this answer isn’t good enough. School is a space for education, so why shouldn’t we be educated on this rule?

Many teachers will simply tell you the hat rule is due to tradition or that it’s respectful, but what does that actually mean? Tradition goes back a long way. In the earlier 1900’s, removing your hat was a sign of respect and humbleness. You would remove your hat indoors, when it wasn’t necessary to cover your face from the sun. In fact, the tradition can stem all the way back to the earlier 1400’s, where knights were asked to remove their helmets to show their faces to nobility. But do hats truly obscure faces? Why do we ban every hat if only a few obscure faces?

Back to the respect aspect, people hinge heavily on the idea of being respectful. Have you ever felt your argument was valid, so a teacher or parent tells you that your words were “disrespectful”? Respect seems to be a way to give teachers more power, more authority. Some would say we should be respectful to all around us, and while this is true, should we remove our hats for everyone? What is respect, in its entirety?

There are two different versions of respect, I believe. There is the respect in that you treat someone like an authority, like they are above you, and the respect in that you would treat a fellow human with kindness. Students believe, generally, that they are being put into strict boxes, given mountains of different rules, or that they have to play mind games with their teachers just to comply with their different sets of rules, and none of that is mentioning the education itself. Students feel like they aren’t being respected.

On the other hand, some teachers believe they have no choice but to be authoritarian toward their students. Our school’s own Mr. Bake believes he had no choice during the single year he taught seventh graders but to be “dictator-like”. He had to be treated like an authority, and he did not give humane respect to the students in turn.

We are commonly mistaught about respect. We are taught from a young age to treat authority like they should be respected on a higher level than those on the same social level as us. We are taught not to question, to just believe in tradition. Some authority figures will say, “if you do not respect me, I will not respect you.” But they do not understand the two versions of respect. If you do not treat me like an authority, I will not treat you like a human.

The hats represent self expression. Freedom. Trust. These things are taken from students; they’re told how to dress and how to think, and the teachers feel they have no choice but to oppress the students. Balance and trust are difficult to obtain, but if we understand respect properly, we can learn to respect our teachers as fellow humans, and they can learn to respect us as much as we do them.

Sources Cited:

Eric Soloman, Why Are Hats Not Allowed In School?, Spectrum News

Mark, Hat Etiquette: Should You Still Take Off Your Hat Off At Dinner, During the National Anthem, Etc? Acme Hat

Jennifer Hurley, A Student’s View on Oppression in Education

Mr Bake, Personal Interview

Ok thanks for reading

[blackjackkent]

Aw, our post-dock, pre-epilogue scene with Wyll starts out with a bit of Durge stuff!

Narrator: You slept like a babe, straight through the night. Dreamless, thoughtless, and almost entirely free.

It occurs to me that I never had Rakha take the Elfsong room during the game, which means this is definitely the first time she's ever slept on a bed this nice ever. Plus this is the first night she's ever spent not battling her brain at all, the first night the battle has not been hanging over her...

(Plus the dialogue coming up suggests she and Wyll made love before going to sleep. :P )

This is the first truly good sleep she has ever had. She is definitely out like a light for a solid like... fourteen hours. And when she wakes, she doesn't open her eyes at once, just lies there, feeling the soft steadiness of the bed beneath her, the gentle touch of the blankets, the emptiness inside her mind.

Narrator: For the first time, you feel alone. Calm, you breathe.

Narrator: Bhaal may have been your beginning, but he will not be your end.

Narrator: Of all those you killed in your father's name, one lingers in your mind even now. Alfira, the Bard of the Emerald Grove. Her death weighs upon you still.

Oof, yeah. :( Alfira's death has drifted more to the back of Rakha's mind as so many other problems have built up. But it has always lingered as the first thing that the beast compelled her to do, and still in many ways the darkest. She still has no memory of the actual act; her body was entirely outside of her control, and all subsequent time was spent caught in an agony of effort to prevent it from happening again.

But it won't. Not ever again. She is free.

Narrator: A burden you will carry for the rest of your days - but fortunately you will not have to carry it alone.

-----

(A/N: This next sequence with Wyll had the potential to be wildly tonally out-of-sequence for Rakha's relationship with him, but it actually works pretty okay. I'm definitely playing fast and loose with how Theo Soloman actually read these lines, because he was absolutely directed with the assumption that Wyll and the PC are going off to a happy ending, whereas with Rakha it's a little more complicated. But overall the whole thing is not wildly off-base.)

Sometime earlier in the morning, Rakha heard Wyll get up and get dressed and go out for a little while; she heard him talking with a few others in the hallway. And then she fell asleep again and stayed that way for several more hours, judging by the slant of the sun out the window.

When she wakes again, he is back, lying on the bed with his head resting on one hand, just watching her. There is a smile on his face, soft, affectionate, a little rueful and sad.

They spent the night together. It was only their second time doing so, and part of Rakha felt guilty at allowing it. She knows it is a matter Wyll takes very seriously, and she knows - and suspects he knows too - that it is probably the last time. But at the same time... she relished it, one more moment of trust and connection, with nothing dragging at the inside of her mind to distract her from him, from what he has meant to her.

It is hard to gauge exactly what is going on in his mind. When he sees her open her eyes, he reaches out and brushes his fingertips gently against her cheek. "My shining star," he murmurs.

She watches him, her eyes half-closed, letting him touch her, focusing on the feeling of his fingers.

Eventually he draws back, sits up on the edge of the bed, then stands. She watches him, attentive to every nuance of his movement.

Shining star. From the very beginning, he saw light in her that she did not. She still doesn't, in a way. But she is beginning to hope that she might one day, that she is starting on the path to being the sort of person he has made her want to be.

He gets up, slowly wandering across the room, eyeing the window as he goes past. "Since I've known you," he says thoughtfully, "we've shed more blood than could ever fill the Chionthar. The wounds we sustained were the testament to our might."

(A/N: This seems like kind of in poor taste to say to a recovering Durge, but what do I know. :P )

As she stands to follow him, he turns to face her, that soft smile still on his lips. "But last night, I swear to you - your touch healed every one of my bruises and wiped away every scar," he murmurs. "Through you, I've been born anew."

Narrator: A moment passes. Wyll's eyes glance up to his horns.

Rakha lets the silence stretch. She knows where this discussion is heading already; they have both seen it coming for a while. But she doesn't want to hurry it along. Let there be a few more moments... just a few more...

"There's something I need to ask you," Wyll finally says quietly. "Something terrible, something greedy, something unreasonable." He squares his shoulders, forces his eyes up to meet hers. "I'm the Blade of Avernus," he says. "I swore to cleanse the Hells of the devils that threaten the Coast."

His eyes harden with sudden determination. "And I know my first target - Mizora. I won't let her claim one more soul, slay one more victim. I'm going to make my way to the Hells and tear the horns right off her damned head."

He hesitates, takes a step forward, takes one of her hands in both of his. "I want you to join me," he says softly. "A reasonable person would say 'no.' I still want you to say 'yes.'"

She wants to say yes, for him.

None of this is a surprise, really. He has already told her he means to battle devils now that the brain is dealt with. He has already told her he means to go to Avernus. Mizora being his first target is new, but not surprising either, and who is she to judge him for a quest of revenge. She would tear Mizora's horns off herself, given half the chance.

And she does want to be with him. He has made her feel worthwhile, all this time, even when she felt she least deserved it. He has helped her to nurture that tiny little light inside her, and whatever she makes of herself now, it will be at least in part because of him.

And she knows he loves her too. He has invested himself in her struggles and triumphs and thrilled to see her overcome them, and he has danced with her in the darkness and talked with her about the world, about his city, and seen both anew through her eyes.

And yet... all of this is still not enough, and they both know it.

She can't go to Avernus. She can't give him forever. She doesn't want to fight anymore, and she needs to figure out who she is before she can make those kind of promises. And he has new battles ahead, and he needs someone who is whole and certain and steady, someone who can be leaned on at times instead of always needing to do the leaning.

(A/N: Tweaking some dialogue here to make it match Rakha's (and Wyll's) thought process a little more. Game dialogue in footnotes as usual.)

"Surely you've earned a rest as well,"(*) she says in a low voice.

"It's not about me," Wyll says earnestly. "It's about every desperate soul Mizora will recruit to the Blood War, every life she snuffs out on Zariel's whims." His fists clench. "I want you to see my blade slice her wings off her back, to hear her groans as she dissolves into ash." A muscle works in his jaw as he stares at her. "Say you'll come."

There was a time when such words would have stirred her - not just because of the beast, but because of her own rage and anger. Attack with purpose, Lae'zel taught her, and Mizora's death is a purpose beyond almost any other. There was a time when he could have convinced her to go.

But she is tired. This night she has just spent, full of calm and peace and empty thoughts and memory, has only made her more certain of it. She needs to rest, and she needs to live. And she is finished with it all, done with killing. Whatever purpose she finds next, it will not take a blade.

And he knew this before he asked, honestly. She's certain of it. This is wistfulness and wishful thinking, not a true request. He wants her to know that if she wanted to come with him, he would welcome her in a heartbeat. He wants her to know that he still loves her, wherever he is headed.

"I know, Wyll," she says, her voice low as ever but oddly gentle, answering the meaning of his words as much as than the words themselves. "But no."(*)

Wyll sighs, his head bowing in answer. "So be it," he murmurs. "The next we meet, my blade will be stained with Mizora's blood."

He reaches out and takes her hand again, gripping it tightly. "All I can ask, then, is... wait for me. If you can't - if you *wont'*, then know this... wherever you go, you take my heart with you. So strong is my love that not even a devil could break it."

She squeezes his hand back fiercely. She knows that he means what he says; if she were to go with him right now, he would love her with every fiber of his being, and perhaps they would carve out a life worth living on the hellplain.

But she can't. She needs to live, to find herself, here. And he needs to go.

Perhaps she will still be waiting when he is finished. It's not impossible. She has no real intention of finding someone else; it is hard to picture herself building this bond again.

But regardless - he also takes a piece of her heart with him to Avernus, because he has changed her for the better, and nothing in this world or any other can ever change that.

-----

(*) In-game line: "A revenge quest? You're better than this, Wyll."

(**) In-game line: "You're on your own." A bit too blunt for what I'm going for here. :P

[slinket]

Smutmas Day 5

I didn't get to as many as I wanted to today, but I've got time!

Prompt: You can finish if you beg.

Starring Ominis, the love of my life - I swear it is a battle to not make everyone of these damn shorts about him

Ominis sat alone in the Undercroft.  No one else really came down here anymore since the death of Soloman.  Sebastian knew he wasn’t welcome, for the time being anyways.  Ominis knew he would cave eventually and let him back. MC on the other hand, well, she has been around, but they hadn’t been alone together in some time.

He still hadn’t decided if he made a mistake of telling her how he felt before she ran into that cave after Sebastian.  He had been so worried about her, desperate for her to stay with him rather than throw herself into danger once again.  Ominis told her that she loved her, earning a gasp from both MC and Anne.  MC still went in after Sebatian though.  

He was glad he had told her, but upset at the assumption that she did not feel the same.  She would have said something by now - wouldn’t she?

Ominis made his way over to what he considered her part of the Undercroft.  She had brought in some comfortable furniture, supposedly there was mood lighting as well.  He sat down on the couch, readying himself for another lonely night, where his mind would wander to thoughts of her until he could hold back no longer.

He started by just running his hand over his pants, sighing to himself as he began to stiffen.  Ominis let his eyes flutter closed, groaning softly as he opened his button and allowed his cock to stand free of his clothing.  He had barely wrapped his hand around it and he knew he was already dripping.  It was always like this when he thought of her, Merlin knows how needy he was for her attention, her touch, her love.      

Spitting into his palm for good measure, Ominis started stroking himself.  Recently he had been bringing himself to completion quickly, likely because the less time he spent with her, the more needy he became. He fell into a steady rhythm, his mind pretending it was her hand around him.  Ominis puckered his lips, imagining MC pressing her lips to his.  She would be kneeling over him, working his cock with her delicate fingers, pressing their chests together.  

“MC, oh baby you make me feel so good.” His chatter made him oblivious to the world around him.  “You could just bring a nipple to my lips, let me tease it with my tongue, gods.”  Ominis knew he was already close, “Fuck, I love you MC.”

“Do you really?” Her voice floated to his ears, and Ominis jumped, grasping out for a pillow to cover himself.

“MC, wh..what are you doing, how did you get here?  I didn’t hear you come in.” 

Ominis listened as she made his way over to him.  

“The entrance from Feldcroft, you wouldn’t have heard anything.”  She was close now, and Ominis couldn’t help but moan when she sat down next to him.

“I, I’m so sorry, I expected to be alone, and…and, oh gods, this…sorry…”  Ominis felt his face bloom redder at every moment.

Suddenly, her finger was caressing his cheek, his face snapping towards her.  

“I’m sorry Ominis, I shouldn’t have kept you waiting for so long.”  She was whispering, moving herself closer to him, until her lips were next to his ear.  “I was worried you may have changed your mind because I didn’t follow you on that day.”

Needy sounds flowed from Ominis’ mouth, and he didn’t realize he was rutting up against the pillow.  Her lips traveled softly down his face until they met his lips, and he opened his mouth, allowing her to explore his with her tongue.

Her hand pressed against the pillow, and the cool air hitting his cock again as she lifted and removed his cover, caused his cock to twitch.

“Let me watch you Ominis?” He almost laughed at her question, like he could ever say no.  

“Puh, please.  I won’t last long.” He gasped at her.

“Tsk tsk Ominis, you can finish if you beg.  Beg for me.”  Her voice was still soft, but so demanding, he groaned once again.

“MC, please let me finish, I want you to see, I need you to see how much I cum when I think of you.”  He could feel her shifting slightly.  “Let me cum MC, I want to belong to you, every part of me, I..ohhhh” He stopped mid sentence as he felt her lips suddenly wrap around the tip of his cock.  Ominis kept his hand moving while she tongued at his opening, her lips tight around his head.

“Fuck, fuck, MC, please, please I can’t… oh gods…” Ominis was about to lose his mind, and when he heard her hum in approval, felt the vibration of her sound, he could hold back no longer. He cried out loudly as his cock unloaded into her mouth, his voice staggering from the pure pleasure and shock that he was feeling.  She kept her mouth on him as he shot load after load, listening to her hum happily.  MC even took his free hand to press against her throat.  She wanted him to feel it as she swallowed everything he was giving her.  The movement of her swallowing against his hand prompted another small spurt from his cock, and then he collapsed backwards, out of breath and feeling out of his mind.

MC moved again, crawling back onto the couch, staying near Ominis, but keeping her hands away from his lower half, not wanting to over-stimulate him, as he was already overwhelmed.

Through ragged breaths he asks “MC, does…does this mean you…that you…”

“I love you too Ominis.”

[spooky-all-year-round]

If Things Were Different.

Sebastian x Female!Mc/reader

TW: ANGST, major spoilers for late game in Sebastian's story, swearing, Sebastian being an ass (but he feels bad), hints at death, violence, self hate, self doubt, the reader is pissed, you are MC

Dust and debris everywhere, you were sweating from all the fire spells cast to combat the inferi and from the running to doge spells from Solomon. You were kneeling on the ground, trying to catch your breath. Sebastian was to your left and winding up for a spell at Solomon, the lightning energy around his wand gave away his intentions. You cast a quick depulso on Solomon, and in your panic the spell was strong enough to knock him back and he crumpled to the floor, unconscious. Sebastian's spell hit the wall opposite of him, leaving a large crater in it. A few pebbles actually made it far enough to hit you.

"Sebastian what the hell was that?!" Your voice echoed in the cave. Your blood was boiling. He promised! He said no more! How could you have trusted him after he went back on his word before? You were too angry for tears, pure rage had you trembling as your glare met his.

"Why did you stop me? He attacked us! He was going to turn us in!" The look in his eyes made it seem like he was going to curse you next. His non-wand hand was clenching and unclenching. He didn't understand, how could you have stopped him? He was saving you BOTH. Soloman had to be stopped, there was no other way.

A quick glance at Solomon confirmed he was still breathing. You gripped your wand a bit tighter and looked back at him before answering, "I couldn't let you do that to one of your only family members left! You would've -"

"YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT I WAS GOING TO DO!" His voice was so loud it had your ears ringing. He was blinded by anger over Solomon attacking you both, over the hatred of Soloman stopping his efforts to save Anne AGAIN. The end of his wand was crackling with sparks, his overflowing emotions seeping out through it in the form of pure magic.

"Sebastian please, if I hadn't done that you would've been haunted by your actions forever." You were trying to reason with him, but you should've learned there is no reasoning with him when he's angry. Let alone this angry.

"I thought you were just ignorant, running around with goblins and playing the hero! But now I know you're down right FUCKING STUPID! YOU THINK NOTHING CAN HARM YOU! THAT PEOPLE ARE INHERENTLY GOOD! HE WOULD HAVE GLADLY SEEN YOU DEAD, OR WORSE IN AZKABAN! YOU COMPLETELY DAFT WOMAN." His chest was puffed out, teeth bared and eyes wild.

That struck you. Hard. Playing the hero? Did he think you did what you did for some kind of praise? That you weren't a kind person but just some attention seeking girl wanting a bit of fame? He always praised you for how smart you are but now you were stupid for saving a life? Where the hell did he get off thinking that?! Tears full of anger and pain started filling your eyes.

His words seemed to hit him when he saw the tears gather in your eyes, the look of pure hatred on your face made him sick. "Wait-" but before he could finish Anne came hobbling in, she took out the rest of the inferi with one amazing and powerful fire spell before falling to her knees. Sebastian could only stand numbly as he watched you conjure up stretchers for Anne and Solomon. You got them situated before rushing out, floating the two of them alongside you.

He had done it again, and even worse this time. He allowed his anger to overpower his rational thoughts and he hurt you again. He didn't really think that of you, Soloman might have tried to get you sent to Azkaban but he wouldn't kill you. Another hit. He almost killed his Uncle. You stopped him from murder, and in return he insulted and screamed at you. Merlin, what has he done? He had to make it up to you. He had to apologize, but he had done that before, no he needed to really change. He had to do something big that would prove that he was done with dark magic, and that he never wanted to get this close to being a murderer again.

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

It had been weeks, you were avoiding him like the plague. You wouldn't even look at him. He didn't know how you would disappear so quickly or where you might be even going to. Ominis wouldn't tell him either, but Sebastian didn't know if that was to help you or out from really not knowing himself.

It seems that you told Ominis and Anne about the fight that broke out with Solomon. But you left out Sebastian's attempt at murder and skipped straight to you sending Solomon hurdling into the wall out of fear. Solomon seems to have forgotten about the whole incident and was told by Anne and Ominis that he was hit by a stray depulso on accident and hit his head on the side of his home causing a bad concussion. Sebastian sent a letter to Anne swearing that he would never delve into the dark arts again and that he would prove it. He just wasn't sure how. But the answer came to him through Ominis, bless him.

"Don't tell me you're reading that book again." The look of anger and disgust on Ominis' face was evident without Sebastian even looking up.

"I've never read this book before mate. What book are you talking about?" He was genuinely confused. He was looking at potion ingredients and writing down ones that might mix well together to cure Anne's different symptoms, he just needed the one thing to tie them together according to Golpalott's third law to making an antidote. Something new, something no one had tried.

"Don't play dumb Sebastian, the book of dark arts you've been obsessing over!" Ominis had walked over and ripped the book out of Sebastian's hands. But a brief pass over the page with his wand had his eyebrows raised. As if he didn't believe it, he closed the book while using his finger to keep track of the page and waved the wand over the front. "This is...just a regular potions book."

"Yes, I told you I was done with that other book. Look!" He swung himself out of bed and walked around to the foot of his bed. He knelt down and opened his truck before digging straight to the bottom before wrestling the damned thing out from it's hiding place. "I've had it at the bottom of my trunk. I haven't touched it since! I don't want to even look at it." It was true, ever since that day he didn't want to even think of that book. But he didn't know what to do with it so he just buried it in the trunk, hoping to find a permanent place later.

"If you don't want it, then why keep it then? Why not just rid the world of that accursed thing and burn it to ashes?" Ominis sneered at him. He was frustrated, he couldn't believe Sebastian didn't want the book. Not after everything. So if it was true, why was it allowed to continue to exist?

Sebastian blinked several times. Why *did* he not just burn it? Why hadn't he even thought of that? He wouldn't have to find a hiding place. He wouldn't have to worry about it being found. No one could ever be tempted by it like he had been. When he told Anne he had given up the dark arts she was so excited he doesn't think she even thought about destroying it. But now he had the perfect plan on how to prove to you and Ominis that he was no longer going to practice the dark arts! But he needed a bit of help, " Ominis, you're brilliant! I need your help!"

Ominis have him an amused look. "With setting something on fire? I'm sure your well practi-"

"Not with setting it on fire you prat! I need you to get her to meet me in the undercroft. All three of us together." The hope that was reignited in Sebastian fizzled a bit at the small frown that graced his friend's lips.

Of course Ominis knew who he was talking about, getting you to even look at him had become Sebastian's new obsession. Anytime Ominis spent more than 5 minutes with you, Sebastian was on him. Asking how you were, if you said anything about him, if you had forgiven him. It drove Ominis crazy. Yes, he wishes you two could be friends again. Yes, he wanted things to return to normal. But he stood firm on not rushing or pressuring you into forgiving Sebastian. You wouldn't even talk about him anymore, not since the night Ominis found you in the Room of Requirements crying your eyes out. It was then you had admitted to Ominis what really happened, and you had begged him to promise to never mention it to Sebastian, for him to please act like everything was normal. He held you for hours as you had talked through everything and continued to hold you until you had calmed down. He agreed to the promise and was true to his word. But that's when Ominis noticed how quiet Sebastian had become. How now it wasn't Sebastian staying up and Ominis finding him after having a nightmare. Instead it seemed like Sebastian was having them too.

"I don't think she would agree to that, and I will not lie to get her to meet you." His frown deepened, as he ruled out that idea before Sebastian could even pose it.

"You don't have to! Just tell her I have something very important to show you both, and that it will be a good thing. That I want to make amends and show you both how sincere I am about giving up the dark arts...please Ominis." Still on one knee, he pleaded with his best friend. His voice had become a whisper on the word please, in an almost heartbreaking way.

Ominis sighed, knowing it was no good arguing; and praying to Merlin that Sebastian was being honest. All he had to do was ask. Hopefully you wouldn't be angry at him for that if he didn't push you. "Fine. I will ask her. But I don't want you bothering me again if she says no." His tone let Sebastian know that his word was final, he would not waver on this choice.

Sebastian jumped to his feet and pulled Ominis into a hug. "Thank you Ominis! I won't let you down!" Sebastian threw the book into his bag and took off to the undercroft. Ominis sighed again. He guessed that means he had better go find you now.

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

Sebastian paced back and forth, opening his pocket watch every once in a while. His nerves only worsened as the minutes passed. What if Ominis couldn't convince you? What would he do then? Could he maybe surprise you when you're alone and burn it then? He was sure you'd tell Ominis you saw him do it. Maybe that would work. But he'd rather do it now and be able to express how sorry he was. His thoughts were cut off at the sound of the gates to the undercroft creaked open. His eyes flickered to the book, it was carelessly tossed on the floor a few feet away so when he burned it he wouldn't get burned as well

His eyes went back to the door way leading to the gate and they landed on you. Merlin you were so pretty to him, even with the prominent frown on your face he couldn't help but stare. How could he have been so stupid to have hurt someone who was so beautiful inside and out. How could he betray someone who did so much to help him? Remembering your smile he wondered how did it not pull him out of that book and steal all his attention.

You turned to him and your eyes finally met his. It had been so long he forgot how intense your gaze could be. His heart fluttered in both fear and attraction. You didn't even say anything, you just raised your eyebrows in a way that asked "well? Why am I here?" He gulped, he was ready to get rid of the book. But now he just had to hope this would be enough. He turned his head, raising his wand, and with a quick flick of his wrist and a shout of "confringo" the book was ablaze. It took only a few seconds for it to be fully turned to ash with how strong he cast the spell. Turning to you he gave a lopsided smile.

"I'm done with the dark arts. I've been researching normal ways to create new potions that might help Anne. Ones that haven't been thought of before! Ominis can tell you, he found me reading the book!" His smile faltered as you continued to glare him down. You turned your head to the blonde and leaned gently against him. Ominis nodded mutely. That stung. You both didn't even need to say anything to communicate.

You turned back to him, your lip curling with anger. "Wonderful. But do you really think that solves everything?" He started to apologize but you pressed on, raising your voice over his. "Do you think that changes or makes me feel better about all you put me through? What you put US through?!" You had gestured to Ominis when you used the word "us".

"Wait, please let me apolo-" Sebastian tried again. But you quickly cut him off.

"NO! YOU don't GET to apologize. You said horrible things at me. You did horrible things, even when we begged you to stop. You were horrible to me! To US! I was just a tool for you to get what you want! You were never my friend! I cared so much about you and I care about Anne. But I am a human too! I deserve kindness too!" Your voice raised loud enough to fill the undercroft, tears were streaming down your face.

He felt sick all over again. Of course this wasn't enough, he had done more than just read the book. He had put you two through so much. He just never realized how much it affected you until now. It never really dawned on him how much he asked of you, how little you asked of him. His eyes started to burn with tears as he sank to his knees. That put a dead stop to your rant, your face changed to shock and confusion. Turning his head down he began to beg. "Please. I'm so," his voice cracked, "sorry. I never meant for anyone to be hurt. I-I didn't mean to make you feel this way. I never knew it affected you so much. I just wanted to save Anne. I just wanted to put my life back together. I was horrible to you both because anytime either of you argued against my ideas... All I saw was Solomon telling me that nothing would work and to give up. That wasn't fair to you both. I can't apologize enough, I will spend my whole life trying to make it up to you, and to prove I've changed...even if you don't give me the chance to show you. You two are so important to me and I can't believe I let some book lead me to harm you two in the ways I have."

The silence was deafening. It seemed too quiet after all your yelling. It pressed in on him, but he never raised his head. Even if he could see through all the tears falling from his eyes, he wouldn't be able to look you in the eyes right now.

"I-" you cut yourself off. Should he dare to hope you'd give him a chance? Maybe even forgive him? Now instead of the crushing silence he heard the blood rushing in his ears, his heart pounding like it was going to jump out and present itself to you. His breath hitched, he was praying to anyone, anything that you would give him just one more chance. Anything, anything at all for him to possibly have you back in his life.

"I just don't know right now." Were the words you finally landed on. Merlin help him.

[billybatsonbrainrot]

For the WIP ask game!

There's so many fun options! I'd like to know about Raise Your Hopes Not the Dead

"Raise Your Hopes, Not the Dead" Features a necromancer Billy (not really) Also wasn't sure if I should call it "Raise the Dead, Not Your Hopes" instead because no hopes are being raised, just a failed attempt at raising the dead. The current title is more like a warning.

Anyways, here's the plot:

Starts a little after the death of Billy's parents and Billy living with his uncle. Billy is still in the denial stage of grief. Billy hates living with his uncle, so he runs away. He's homeless for nearly a month until he meets the wizard.

After getting the powers of SHAZAM and becoming Champion of Magic, Billy realizes that he has the most powerful magic in existence at his fingertips. (He doesn't have another form, just stays as Billy.) He finds a library in the Rock of Eternity after wandering around because the wizard straight up died in front of him and left him there with no knowledge of how to get back. The library is full of spellbooks that he goes through quickly thanks to speed of Mercury and wisdom of Soloman. Eventually, there's a book that catches his eye, one that is black with purple accents with a skull in the middle of the front cover and decorated with symbols he doesn't recognize. Inside are spells on how to commune with the dead, and more importantly, spells on how to bring back the dead.

The first thought he has after discovering this? He's going to bring his parents back from the dead! He starts with his dad first. However, it doesn't really go as he planned.

He didn't even know if the spell would work. Curiosity got the better of him and now he's here, in front of his parents' graves.

Billy is able to dig up his father's body, whose body has still not decomposed because I looked it up and they decompose fast but the good thing about the fictional city of Fawcett is that time works differently there. He doesn't have the other ingredients for the spell to work. The spell he's looking at is how to put a soul inside a dead body. He went looking for his parents' souls but for some reason he can't seem to find them. Turns out there are millions of different afterlives for different religions, alien species, etc. all across the universe. Billy stops looking after the hundredth one because he was starting to get frustrated. Others wouldn't even let him enter because he's still alive.

The other spell suggests putting someone else's beating heart into the body. Billy doesn't want to kill anybody, he's trying to unkill somebody. So what he does instead is give up a piece of his soul and heart for his dad. He got chosen for his pure heart so there is no way his dad would go through corruption, turn evil, or other things he's heard of people coming back wrong.

And it works! A bright light is shone after the spell is casted and Billy can see the figure of his dad moving. Except, he's wearing something different than what he was buried in. His dad is wearing a red suit with golden boots, golden sash around his waist, a lightning bolt on his chest that looks like the one from the wizard, and goddamn white cape with gold accents. He looks like a superhero!

After one conversation, Billy realizes that he did come back wrong. He doesn't remember who he was or who Billy is. And Billy tries so hard to get him to remember. It hurts to reintroduce himself to his own father. He tries to tell him that his name is C.C. Batson, he was an archaeologist, he had a wife and son, he was murdered. He tries to recreate scenes in his life to jog his memory, but the man in front of him does not remember anything. It actually started to drive him crazy.

It's like Bily created a whole new person that's wearing his father's body.

Thus, Billy had created Captain Marvel, a name he gave the superhero. Marvel has a good spirit, and he inherited some his powers when he gave him part of his soul, he can be a superhero if he wants to. In fact, that's the only thing Captain Marvel wants to do, he's always busy doing some good deed. Billy should be proud of him, but he just hates looking at Marvel. This is nothing like his dad.

Billy leaves Marvel to his own devices as he leaves to try to find a way to "fix" him. That's when Captain Marvel joins the Justice League. He's having fun and making friends. And he's with them for about a year because Billy has been gone for about a year.

Billy comes back and he's more frustrated than ever. He managed to find nothing. He doesn't feel like going back to talk to someone who doesn't remember him in the way he wants them to, but Marvel is still his responsibility. His other half that left him with a literal hole in his heart and soul.

He comes back to see that Marvel has joined the league and he tries to be okay with it. He's trying to make it work and pretend he's fine with everything. With Marvel being Marvel and picking up slack on the duties he ignored. He feels he finally reached a breaking point. He gave up on looking for a someone that wasn't there. Maybe he can have a relationship with this new version of his dad. But there's always something that irks him every time he sees him.

When Billy finally has a moment of clarity, he realizes just what a crazy and cruel thing it was that he did. Captain Marvel shouldn't be alive in the first place and the hole inside of him just keeps on getting bigger and bigger. He ends up coming to the conclusion that it's time for Marvel to go.

It was time to put an end to this ruse, but the Justice League doesn't seem too keen on letting Marvel go. Who was this kid anyways?

I made two endings

Ending #1:

Billy knows deep down he'll always miss his family, but his heart showed him what he really wanted, a hero to come save him. The reason he wanted them back was because he knew he wasn't ready for responsibility the wizard had bestowed upon him. He tried really hard to avoid it, trying to go back to a time where his life was easier. He even went as far as creating a new person to hand it off to. It was never going to work in the long run, it was Billy's role to fill in the first place.

In the end, Billy finally puts his father's body to rest and accepts his position.

Ending #2:

Billy can't bring himself to put an end to Captain Marvel. He became his own person while he was gone. He decides to let him stay but he still wants to let his dad rest in peace. They go on a new journey to get Marvel his own body. They even start to bond, and Marvel agrees to help with the duties the wizard left him. Billy is finally able to go through the stages of grief and accepting their death.

In case you couldn't tell, this was heavily inspired by Betty Grof from Adventure Time and her relationship with Simon/Ice King. Trying so hard trying to make him remember who he was she actually drove herself mad by becoming a wizard to find a solution, while having moments of clarity. But she ended up sacrificing herself for him to go back to normal.

Billy drove himself mad with grief and the feeling that he was under immense pressure. He feels that he didn't have time process anything before he got pushed into such an important role. It was only made worse when he wasn't whole. Marvel's problem was that he wasn't really brought back to life to begin with, it was just Billy's soul inhabiting a corpse.

(I also have a hc that if Billy were to be gender-swapped, his name would be Betty. Billy Batson -> Betty Batson. Magical girl Billy occupies my thoughts sometimes)

[bourgeoning]

ABOUT: AYSHA SOLOMAN.

we are so glad to see you safe, PRINCESS AYSHA SOLOMAN of ETHIOPIA! it's dangerous out in the world these days, but i hear that you are GREGARIOUS and PROTEAN enough to handle it. just don't let your VANITY bring you down! stay on your guard, because with your secret being at risk for exposure, you wouldn’t want everyone to find out YOU'RE BEGINNING TO WONDER IF THE REBELS HAVE A POINT.

BASIC INFORMATION.

FULL NAME: aysha soloman.

ETYMOLOGY: the amharic form of the arabic name aisha. depending on its spelling and pronunciation, the name can mean "woman" or "life; alive."

NICKNAMES & ALIASES: the people have called her KEGA for many years, so often that foreign dignitaries have caught wind of it as well—referring to her, at times, by the nickname's translation "THE ROSE OF ETHIOPIA." occasionally called ASH by friends.

TITLES & OCCUPATION: princess of ethiopia.

BIRTHDAY & AGE: october 13th (25).

GENDER: cis woman.

PRONOUNS: she / her / hers.

ORIENTATION: bisexual graybiromantic.

STATUS: unwed and unbetrothed. she's vaguely interested, but marriage is definitely not her focus at the moment.

LANGUAGES SPOKEN: amharic, oromo, somali, tigrigna, afar, english, arabic, others.

PERSONALITY.

TRAITS: gregarious, protean, ebullient, naive, self-centered, sheltered, vain.

ALIGNMENT: neutral good.

HEAVENLY VIRTUES: kindness & charity.

DEADLY SINS: pride & gluttony.

HOBBIES: gardening, coffee brewing, herbology, metalworking and jewelry-crafting.

ALLEGIANCE: the solomans and the people of ethiopia. currently pro-monarchy, as that's where her family stands, but every day aysha silently questions that stance for herself.

HISTORY.

a work in progress. tl;dr: 

as the youngest of the solomans, you had little to worry about on the royal front. all you've ever had to do, really, was sit and look pretty. if you wanted to go further, perhaps find an interesting talent or two, to make you more appealing for a political marriage. so you applied yourself in all the things that interested you — learned what you wanted to, dropped it when you lost the initial spark, and moved on to the next. rinse, repeat. 

your first, true hardship, one that wasn't a petty squabble not getting exactly what you wanted, arrived in the form of the reckoning. your eldest brother, your protector, disappeared without a trace. and it changed you, ever so gradually.

as the days and months marched on, despite what happened to your brother because of their actions, you couldn't help but wonder — did the rebels have a point? is monarchy, and sitting still and looking pretty, really all it's cracked up to be?

HEADCANONS.

a big fan of coffee. she's always interested to see different brewing methods from around the world, though she is partial to the ethiopian way and ceremony.

has an egyptian mau named lulit.

more to come! she's brand new, so i'm still getting a feel for her <3

WANTED CONNECTIONS.

REBELLIOUS INFLUENCE: someone to urge aysha down the path of revolution. she's already a bit amenable to it, but if she could just get a nudge...

previous betrothals and matches, friends, enemies, anything!!

[eclipsed-illustrations]

Remember that secret romance that Viktor (from my last post) was involved in? Meet Soloman (Sully) Songfire, the foster child of the continent's most dangerous man. The Grand Inquisitor of Malum's Bastille... Malum. Technically, he was supposed to report/capture Viktor on-sight buuuut Sully's never been good at following orders.

[cosmicanamnesis]

One Card A Day Tarot Reading

Day 2! So far so good.

Date: 1-2-25

Deck: The Dark Forest Tarot

Intention: I'm experiencing some relationship turbulence, how should I approach?

Card: The High Priestess

Imagery: Like that of the Rider-Waite deck, this robed priestess sits between two pillars, one black and one white inscribed with a B on one and a J on the other in reference to Soloman's temple. At her feet sits a crescent moon. Behind her hangs a tapestry depicting trees and fruits.

First impression: She's one of my favorites. Symbolizes calm wisdom. This tracks.

Guidebook says: Thus card represents wisdom; sageness; common sense; enlightenment; knowledge; education; foresight; intuition; understanding; intelligence; comprehension.

Second impression: Approach with grace and patience. Be steady. Trust your gut.

Evening reflection: I feel like I'm coming off as passive and disengaged, but maybe I'm just too in my feelings to tell for sure.