#strix speaks

[fade-and-loathing-in-thedas]

Hey all, I'm alive and back (kinda). I've been having an absolute nightmare of a burnout which as a result I've come to learn my ass has been misdiagnosed for 20 years (I never had bipolar, OCD, BPD, or any of the number mental health diagnosis I was given) it was just autism and ADHD along with a bonus of dyslexia and dyscalculia. So, while nice to know it wasn't just me being a failure it's also just been really overwhelming.

I'm going to be slowly getting back into posting and engaging in the fandom (at the moment just opening the app is evoking a weird sense of terror) because I can honestly say being here, this fandom and all the wonderful people I interact with, brings me genuine joy. I'm just going to be slow about it. I do see your tags and messages and will respond when I can. I'm still just overwhelmed atm.

[revenge-and-a-little-more]

Hi I'm Strix!

Not gonna lie, this is pretty much gonna be a JDM thirst blog with a shit ton of neggie content. I'm 18+ and this blog is 18+

Main @strixgirl if y'all wondering who's creeping on your blogs.

I write fanfic and there's a master list below if you want to check it out, but also so I can keep my shit organized.

My Fanfic Masterlist

Please read all tags and warnings on AO3, some of these are definitely not for everyone.

COMPLETED FICS

It's always good to make new friends

My methods are controversial, but it keeps them all in line

It was only meant to be a kiss

She's heaven sent, but hell replied

COMPLETED DRABBLES

What are you doing to me?

Don't start fights if you're not prepared to finish them

CURRENT WIPs

If I could do it all over again...

I'm not scared, kiss me (I want you bad)

[shima-draws]

Recently just binge rewatched all of Spy X Family and UGHHH Damianya. God Damianya

[glitxd]

In a modern setting, what kind of music would your operators / drifters listen to?

You could add their warframe's preferred genre too if you want hehe

[starielluvsdnd]

I literally just wanted a place to rant abt my games

I’m currently playing three games:

Dungeon of Duffla-

-Run by Kingsley Master

-Featuring party members Larkian, Roliervie, Aiko (mine), Oliver, Spork and Varian (Starlings)

-World is in political uncertainty as there’s 3 potential leaders/groups

Albatros in the Crows Nest

-Run by Starling

-Featuring party members Luz, Grian, Virgil (mine), King, Skeleman With Magic Powers Purple (Starlings), Strong-String-Strix and Mary Poppins (Kingsleys)

-Has a much more comedic tone due to the fandom characters

The Twelve Guilds

-Still being setup

-I should be the main dm

-Party members Sheira (Friend ima call Sal)

Beneath the Cypress Tree

-Still being setup

-Run by Me

-Revamped version of Speak No Harm (see previous campaigns)

Before these I played in 3 cancelled and unfinished games which I may talk about on occasion:

Destiny of Uralg

-Run by @kawaiimarea

-I played Aiko Oakbuckle

-Had enough players for only one character each

Macas Mystry

-Run by Kingsley

-I played Eryn

-Featured me, @kawaiimarea and a mate of Kingsleys

Speak No Harm

-Run by me

-Featuring party members Aiko/Tanya, Fennel (mine), Faragrim, Jam, Perrigren (Kingsleys), Varien and Dakota (Starlings)

-Took place in mini faewild

-Only ran 2 sessions (using the rest of the plot for Beneath the Cypress Tree)

When tagging I’m gonna use

Stariel posts/speaks/reblogs depending on if the posts mine/if I add to someone else’s/or if I reblog it

When referring to a character (or campaign in general) I’ll always tag both the character and the campaign they’re from. But I only have the campaign tags saved in ‘featured tags’ so if you want to find a specific character tag you have to click on their campaign and find their tag on another post.

Any campaigns that fizzled out before I made this account are tagged under #previous campaigns (you’ll find those campaign and character tags under there)

On occasion I reblog stuff about the DND movie under #honour among thieves

I may also reblog about campaigns I’m invested in vut not part of like #Dndecked out

[glitxd-shenanigan]

Strix has a modern college AU and I haven't wrote anything about this AU at all. I've been stuck and absolutely skronkled so I decided to use my cards to set down some foundations for his story.

Here's how his cards fell;

__ Where they are in life as the story begins The Tower Reversed

The reversal of the tower indicates personal transformation, fear of change, averting disaster, and delaying the inevitable.

As we are introduced to Strix, we could see that he seems to be in deep denial. His blindness is a constant reminder of abuse. On the outside he presents himself as a friend who deeply cares about his friends, but on the inside, this act feeds into his fear of abandonment. As his anxiety spikes, he'd succumb to his instinct for self defense.

He would prefer to avoid confrontation and follow others to hold a relationship together. When pushed too far, Strix would clam up, hoping things will pass.

__

Where they will be as the story ends Two Wands Reversed

To me, "where" is both about location and mental state. It's clear by The Tower that Strix is not as happy as he appears. Strix craves change in his life, but he has no idea where to start. He has no purpose. As the two of wands portrays a man with the world in his hands, when reversed we could imagine the world falling out instead.

Strix will be confused with no place to go both mentally and physically. He needs direction and help to set himself straight.

Combining this with our first card we could ask ourselves; how will he learn to let go? How will he finally learn to live in the present? What event will shake him up to help him "see" clearer? A new card or an oracle card will help, but I'm going to let this marinate in my docs and see what I could come up with. __

What kind of person they want to be as the story ends The Hanged Man

The hanged man is calm and serene despite his position. His arms and legs are tied, and he is able to keep his cool as once see things in a different perspective.

With this card we could sense that Strix craves tranquility. Strix wanted to be freed from his fears and embrace the present, he wants to learn from others so he could see things in a new way and help others find their paths, too. __

What do they want from their career Four Coins Reversed

In terms of career, this card symbolizes determination, honest hard work and generosity. Fours symbolizes stability and strength in collaboration.

I already predetermined that Strix follows his father's footsteps and he is currently working as a junior in the bio-mechanic industry. He wanted to help others in improving their lives and dreams that perhaps someday he could help in developing an implant that could help with degenerative vision. The money he receives from work are used to help his sister with her school. __

What do they want from their relationship(s) Ace Of Wands

Ace of wands represent new beginnings, passion, boldness, and growth.

This is a full 180 from our first card, whatever is happening in Strix's relationship with his friends and partner should be a good thing since this card represents fun and excitement. Even when this story starts before Strix met them, this card is a sign that he needs to bite the bullet reach out as their relationship will change the trajectory of his life.

Strix needs guidance and balance, and wands are the card of passion, inspiration, and energy (something he lacks in his first card). So Strix draws / will draw a lot of inspiration out of his relationships. Or at least, he wishes to...

__

How can they live in tune with their own interests, principles and beliefs? Six Wands Reversed

If Strix has a vision, he wants change, he wants to live a life of tranquility and self-acceptance, and he wants to help others find themselves too. How can he live that life he craves?

The six of wands advises Strix to check in with himself and open up. Confidence and peace often comes from experience, and once Strix tries to open up, he will make better decisions that are more in alignment with who he really is.

...but it isn't that easy. As he gathered up enough courage, perhaps he will not receive recognition, even shamed and neglected. __

What is their greatest strength and potential Ten Coins Reversed

In all honesty I'm pretty stumped with this card since the reversed ten of coins doesn't signify any strength nor potential... so I'll break the symbols down instead of reading the card itself.

Ten is a composite number; One (1) being the beginning represents bravery and initiation. Zero (0) represents potential. Coins / pentacles represents wealth, safety, body, and health.

Mentally, Strix has the potential to easily navigate his murky thoughts once he sets his mind to it. In a literal sense, Strix does this as he lives his life as he could adapt, navigate through his environment and even work despite slowly losing his eyesight. __

How can they get from here to where they want to be Strength

The strength speaks to the inner strength and the human spirit's ability to overcome any obstacle. It invites us to feel our fears and look them in the eyes, and from there we could find the power to persevere.

For Strix, his actions is for him to tame his thoughts, gut reactions and raw emotions. It's normal for him to feel shame, guilt, rage and sadness, but what he does with it and how far he'll go to understand them makes all the difference.

__

What is their first step Knight Of Swords

Strix's first step to get him from being a self-destroying wreck in the beginning to his goal in the end is a simple one; Change.

It's easier said than done. The road ahead will be a bumpy ride, but the knight is strong, focused and daring. Once this change happens there will be no way for him to turn back.

[dr-wormman]

I've never been the happiest with how I ended up coloring his face and the signature placement but ah well

!!! My eyes hurt!!!! But I finished it

[fandomtherapy44]

Loid Forger x Fem! Reader: Spy Confession's

Paring: Loid forger x Fem! Reader

Warnings: SMUT, Language, small talk about gun

WC:2,362

Reblog Banner and 18+ Banner

and divider

cafekitsune

Summary: Loid, Y/n and Anya Forger are the perfect normal family. Just one thing, it's all fake to help the mission Strix, right? Well, things might spill out in Loid's office.

My dear sweet family, well my fake family. We are the Forgers, my husband Loid Forger aka Twilight, and our daughter Anya, who we adopted from an orphanage and who has brought more joy to my life than I thought was possible. And then there’s me, Agent Ruby Phoenix, but I am fronting as Loid’s wife Y/n Forger for mission: Strix. My job is to make our family look normal and presentable enough for Loid to move in and be friends with Donovan Desmond.

Anya also has a large part to play to become an imperial scholar, but that can take a long time, so in the meantime, I will play my part perfectly as usual. Loid and have been partners on a couple of missions, but it has never been this long or stressful. Also, the fact that I actually like Loid does not help, I can’t help it, he’s so handsome and the best spy after me of course. I genuinely admire him, he has saved me more than just once. And this cosplaying as his wife messes with my head and feelings more than usual. 

“Good morning Y/n.” He greets me as he sips his coffee while reading his newspaper. 

“Good morning Loid, did you get any word on your next mission?” On top of the mission strix, we are also called to do mini missions. We really need new agents.

“Yes, I’ll be leaving after work today, so you and Anya will be on your own for dinner. Speaking of, I have to get her up, or she’ll be late for school.” He ruffles the newspaper, puts it down, and snaps into the caring father role. He would never admit it, but he actually enjoys this mundane life, and so do I.

“Morning mama.” Sleepy Anya greets me while rubbing her eyes.

“Good morning Anya! Guess what? We get to have dinner with just you and me tonight so that means I’ll make something special!” I excitedly tell her, hoping to wake her up since the bus is just forty-five minutes away. 

“Really! Yay!” She jumps up and down, waking up Bond, our big fluffy white dog.

“Borf! Borf!” I go over to pet him to calm him down.

“Don’t worry Bond, Anya is just excited. But you're such a good protector aren’t you boy.” He jumps on top of me to lick me. 

“Borf! Borf!” 

“Ah Bond, stop you're getting your slober all over me!” I laughed a real laugh which hadn’t happened in a long time. At that moment, Loid stepped out of his room dressed for the day.

“Wow, I haven’t heard that in… I can’t even remember the last time. It’s nice, I miss it.”  Loid thought to himself, and of course, Anya heard it.

“Ah! Does papa actually like Mama? I got to help them!”  Without her parents noticing, she slips in the kitchen, takes Loid’s lunch, and hides it. “Hehe my plan is in action I’m just like Papa.”

Eventually, Loid and Anya leave for school and work, and I have the day off from my front job. It’s perfect, I've been meaning to clean this place in tip-top shape. To be the ideal typical family, the house must be clean. I start with the kitchen. I am cleaning the fridge when I move the eggs, I see Loid’s lunch.

“Did he really leave his lunch? Damn the agency really need’s to give him a break. Well, I guess I just will need to bring it to him.” I smile to myself and put on my jacket.

“Hold the fort down Bond!” I yell as I leave.

“Borf!”

Walking into the hospital, everyone recognizes me as Mrs. Forger.

“Hi Mrs.Forger!” “Hello!” I smile and wave.

“Good afternoon Mrs.Forger!” another nurse waves.

“Yes good afternoon!” I know every one of Loid’s colleagues, it is my job as his wife to know every one of his work “Friends”.

“Mrs. Forger, you're here?” Miss Fiona Frost asks me.

“Yes, my dear silly husband forgot his lunch. Can you believe that?” I joked with her.

“Right very silly.” She responds in a very serious tone. You see from anyone else I would think they're joking with me, but with Fiona Frost I know she’s planning to take my spot from me. Fiona aka Nightfall is another agent in our organization. She is a very skilled spy, and I would say the best, along with Loid and me. The thing is, she also has a huge crush on Loid, so when she heard I got this mission as his wife and not her. Her hatred for me turned into a deep, uncontrollable detestment.

“Could you tell me where he is?” 

“Right of course he’s… just cleaning up in his office.” Cleaning up from what? “You see, I was bringing him ice tea and spilled all over him, so he’s super… wet.” What the ever living fuck is that supposed to mean. I’m usually calm and collected, but hearing her talk like that, I wanted to pull out my pistol, which I always kept on me. “I can take his lunch for him if you like.” She tries to act innocent.

“No, I will. I want to make sure that the stain comes out, so if you could tell people not to disturb us, thank you, Miss. Frost.” With that I speed walk to his office gribbing his lunch bag I know nothing happened Fiona was just being a bitch trying to make me leave so she could swoop in and be the hero. But I can’t help the jealousy from seeping in like that iced tea.

I grab the doorknob and throw it open.

“Ahh! Y/n what are you doing here?” Loid confusingly asked me as he was buttoning up a new shirt. About four buttons still had to go, leaving his muscular, toned chest exposed. I quickly shut the door behind me.

“You uh you left your lunch at home,” I answer, trying not to look.

“I did. I could've sworn I had put it in my bag. Well, thank you anyway.” He takes the bag.

“So you had Ice tea spilled on you, huh, Twilight?” I teasefully bump his shoulder leaning against his desk. We didn’t have to worry about his office being bugged; we checked everywhere before he came, and there is also a secret passageway to HQ from here.

“Stop it, I was distracted so I didn’t have time to stop it.” I think back to what Fiona was wearing, it was a low-cut dress. Loid’s not the type of man to look down women’s dresses, right?

“What was distracting you?” I asked, looking at his stained shirt, thinking about how I was going to get the stain out, trying to protect myself from his answer.

“I was looking over tonight’s mission notes. Why?” Oh thank God.

“Oh, no reason, just curious. Well, you have your lunch. Good luck on your mission.” With that, I turned to make my leave. 

“Wait Y/n-” He calls after me. As I turn back, I trip over my own feet and have him catch me. My hand’s land on his chest and his on my waist.

“Got you.” His eyes bore into mine.

“You do.” We didn’t let go.

“Y/n, why did you lie?” Shit I forgot one his many skill’s is being able to tell lie’s even better then me.

“I thought that maybe you were looking down, Miss. Frost’s shirt.” I embarrassingly admit. He take’s my words in.

“Y/n, you know I would never do that even out of Loid Forger.” His grip tightens.

“I know it was stupid.” I can’t seem to make eye contact.

“Why would you even- Y/n do you… like me.” Fuck you know what apaertley when it come’s to the man I’ve had a crush on for year’s I turn into a blubering school girl.

“It doesn’t matter, I let my emotions get in the way of the mission. I’m sorry, I understand if you want Fiona as Mrs.For-” I suddenly feel contact on my lips and it wasn’t a fist like it usually is, it was his lips. It seems the world freezes as our kiss continues. He lets go. 

“I like you too Y/n.” I blush at his words.

���For how long?” I barely let out, my face burning up.

“Since our training days”

“That was fifteen years ago,” I stated, my heart beating even faster.

“Exactly.” I've liked him for about ten years, that means he’s liked me this whole time!

“Really!?”

“You're questioning why I like you? Okay, I’ll tell you. One, you are the most brilliant spy I have ever seen. Two, your kindness in situations where people don’t even deserve it. Three, your beauty is unremarkable. Should I go on? I have about two hundred more.” At that, my heart should have jumped out of my chest. “Also, I can add on your Jeously; it is pretty cute.”

“Jeosuly, I wasn’t jeosuly. That’s ridiculous; I am one of the top spies in the whole world.” I spewed out and we both knew I was lying again. 

“Y/n, can I kiss you again?” He tipped my head to meet his eyes with a delicate touch of his hand.

“At this point if you don’t I’ll shoot you.” He chuckles and kisses me again. Somehow he led me to his desk where my legs hit the edge. I throw my arms around his neck to bring him closer.

His lips were everything I had dreamed they would be. Soft in the middle and rough on the outer from all the hits he takes on them. Without even realising he’s tugging on mine, teeth mashing with mine. And our tongues meet in the middle, wrapping over another. I could still taste the sweet and sour lemon and sugar mixture from the iced tea. We finally let go, our breaths mixing.

“I’m going to show you why you are my wife and why I am going to marry you.” He goes to my neck. I grab his shirt, I had been intimate for my missions before, I also had meaningless sex, but I've never had it real. He lays small kisses down my neck and finally settles down a special spot. And sucks down.

“Ah fuck Loid!” I exclamied and in response he sucks harder pulling at the skin a little. He creates a bruise and licks it to soothe it.

“Do you like that Ruby Phoenix?” His voice was low, sending vibrations down to my core.

“Uh huh.” I just nodded, I was putty in his hands.

“Good.” He continues to lick and bite. Without noticing he stops.

“Why did you stop?” I wined out.

“Because it seems another part of your body needs attention.” He gets on his knees. And his hands go up to my skirt.

“Wait wait!” I grab his hands.

“We can stop, no problem.” 

“It’s not that I just no one’s gone down on me.” 

“Well then I must racticaleized that as your husband.” His fingers pull down my skirt. I al wearing tights and he has no problem to ripe those.

“Green lace panties my favorite.” My face burns again. He grabs my thigh and puts it on his shoulder.  He starts to kiss my inner thigh.

“Is that vanilla lotion?” He asks, like his face wasn’t in the middle of my lap.

“Yes it IS” He licks through the fabric up to my clit.

“Loid!” His tongue runs and up and down the slit. The fabric was now getting wet. He sucks up and latches on my clit. And gives a small tug. On this point my pussy was on fire.

“I think she’s ready for my tongue and finger, don’t you think?” I just nod and he grabs my panties and tosses them off. Tongue plunges deep into me. He starts to push in and out slowly and makes rings in me. I was a whole mess. I go to his blond locks to pull him in more. It then starts to go faster. Liquid spilled out of me and it was dribbling down his chin. He was eating me out like he was starved.

“Tastes so good.” My clit get’s light taps to drive me further over the edge. He stops again.

“Loid please!” I was about to combust if I didn't get my realsie soon. 

“I know babe I know just let me do this.” He fingers slide in. Two.

I grab his wrist, not used to the thickness. He just lets them sit there for a second for me to adjust to them. I couldnt imagine his cock.

“I’m going to start pumping them kay?” I nod and he starts pumping up. My pussy clamps over them. His fingers pet my walls, looking for a specific spot. He jams up and finds it.

“SHIT its right there Loid!” I practically screamed out. He pumps faster and faster. My pussy is slodge at this point. His other hand goes to my clit to tease it. And my hips desperately jump forward. Wanting all of it. Fingers in and out and making small rings on my clit I was about to cum.

“Loid I’m close.” At that he kisses me sweetly to hide my moan. At that pump and circle I came.

“MHH!” I squirted all over his hand and desk. We depart from each other.

“So did I perform my husband duties well?” He could be such a teasing asshole sometimes.

“I think so…” I look over the desk. “Sorry.” 

“Don’t be, there's more coming.” I seriously think I'll have a heart attack.

“Loid?”

“Yeah?”

“Be careful on your mission tonight.” With a kiss on his cheek, I cleaned myself up and left feeling like this fake marriage just became very real.

“Mama, I’m home,” Anya called out, entering our house.

“Hi Anya, I’m just making dinner!” I smiled while stirring the soup pot. “Man, I'm sure happy Loid forgot his lunch.”  

“Ah! My plan worked once again, the world is saved thanks to me.” 

I also have smut Gojo fics if you like! Valentine's Day & Work Rivals

[fade-and-loathing-in-thedas]

With the embargo being lifted soon I just wanted to update people on my spoiler tags and how I tag (cos I'm not going to lie, I don't care about spoilers for myself and I will be watching everything)

Anything that has been in the official trailer(s) and/or basic info we've known for a while (that certain characters exist, release date, etc) is tagged da4 and datv

The podcast Dragon Age: Vows and Vengeance is tagged davv

Anything from the gameplay reveals, the bioware discord, or articles are tagged da4 spoilers and datv spoilers

Anything shown after the embargo is lifted (that six hours of gameplay) will be tagged as above but will have an additional tag of da embargo just in case you are okay with all the above but not the additional gameplay.

Also speculation and theories has an additional tag of da4 speculation

I do my best to always tag, but I'm human and mistakes happen. Don't be afraid to let me know (politely) if I miss one or you think a specific tag should apply.

I'll include a link to this in my pinned post for reference.

[yumeka-sxf]

I'm finally home from my vacation and able to discuss the latest SxF chapter...all I can say is, I have a lot to say! I'll start with funny stuff first before I move on to analyzing...

Anya was especially hilarious in this chapter - where do I even start with her gremlin-ness? 😂 First off, there's her calling the butlers "henchlings' henchlings" (in the Japanese version, I believe she's using some mispronunciation of 弟子, which means "follower")

Then she calls out Twilight for being, well, Twilight, even giving his behavior its own acronym 🤣

She feels bad for George because his family isn't important enough for Twilight's aforementioned Twilighting 😅

And this doozy of a nickname for Bill!

In the Japanese version, she calls him something like "old man bully who hits people with balls" 😆

But joking aside, we get these profound words from Jeeves that seem to resonate with Twilight.

His words remind Twilight of the hypocrisy of his position: on the one hand, he agrees with Jeeves and wants the children to be able to grow up as they wish, without being burdened by the expectations of their parents. But that's exactly what he's been corralling Anya towards this whole time...doing whatever's best for Operation Strix, regardless of what may be best for her.

This scene reminded me of his musings when they first took Bond to the dog park; another case where he's aware that the morals he believes in are the opposite of his actions and yet...he continues with the mission.

I also think it's great that the other parents thank Anya for her bravery during the bus hijacking. Even if their kids don't act grateful, the parents should be on their behalf. Perhaps seeing this praise for Anya right before his eyes is what made Twilight feel even more guilt upon hearing Jeeves' words - he's seeing more and more what an exceptional girl she is despite not having the perfect traits for his mission, and yet he's still manipulating her (not realizing she's aware of the mission and wants to help).

But on that note, it's nice to see that George's dad and Becky's mom somewhat agree with Jeeves. As of now, I'd say out of all the Eden kids we've gotten to know, George and Becky seem to have the most decent families. I especially like how Becky's dad is adorably doting, to the point where he gets crushed when Becky asks Yor for help instead of him 😅 Also Martha having to reel him in, lol.

But despite being an overbearing dad, at least he isn't quick to jump on Loid supposedly "seducing" Becky 😂 He seems to not take it seriously, which is good since Becky is the one making the moves with her silly little girl crush.

Also Emile thinking Yor is pretty~ I'm surprised he had something nice to say about anyone connected to Anya, lol. I really want a chapter where Yor takes all the Eden kids on a playdate and they start thinking she's awesome like Becky does, even Damian.

Speaking of Yor, just when I thought she would be demoted to "background character" for whatever arc is coming, the last few panels give the impression that she'll have her next moment in the spotlight soon! Is she just destined to always catch Melinda when she falls? 😅

Not only are we getting more Yor/Melinda interactions next time, but also (hopefully) more of Anya reading Melinda's mind. I know there's theories floating around of how Donovan may be able to read minds and is possibly the one behind the experiments done on Anya, and that Melinda may have some psychic abilities too. Also some relation to that Arnold Crowley character introduced several chapters ago. I'm not good at theorizing, so I'll leave it to fans who are better with that kind of stuff 😅 But I think they're all good theories and I'm keeping my fingers crossed we'll get more insight into Desmond secrets very soon!

...but unfortunately the next new chapter won't be until November 25th, so we'll have to be satisfied with theories for now!

[wholoveseggs]

Dark Star {Part Three}

18+ ---- {Masterlist} {Tag-List}

Part Three

{Elijah Mikaelson x f!Reader} Klaus and Marcel hit a dead end searching for your killer. Until Cami offers a fresh perspective that could change everything. Kol uncovers a spell that might resurrect you, but the cost is steep. And centuries ago, under starlit skies, you surrender to a forbidden night with Elijah, binding your fate to his in ways that transcend time.

♡♡ It's finally time for some smuttt, ~ xoxo {Here is my playlist for the vibes} ♡♡

6.8k words - Warnings: smut, oral sex, first time, a bit of drinking, lots of religious talk, stargazing, so much sinning, Kol being Kol, Cami trying to help, a bonfire, dried fruit & magic mushrooms...

{Part One}{Part Two}{Part Four}{Part Five}{Part Six}

@gorgeouslydangerous @starkleila @lydia1369sworld @notleylaaa @vampiresluv

@myanmy @xflowerbombxo @maryvibess @always-and-forever-daydreaming

@spnaquakindgdom @amournoir @meeom @damienmorton @wickedmuse

@cs-please @complicatedandconfusing-25 @youcanhavemybuckanyday @akala6670229 @yeaiamme2

@itsjulzandmydiamonds @witch-of-letters @elijahstwink @rosecentury

@amanda08319 @starshipcookie @li-da-savage @veggie-eggrolls @spideybv28

@sunkissedebony97 @idk00sblog @savannaounana @sekaishell @b1tchy

@loving-and-dreaming @fancycassie-stayfancy @hcqwxrtss123 @iamawkwardandshy @ziayamikaelson

@absolutemarveltrash @darkened-writer @nina6708 @evasmlp

@madeinmyownmind-blog @lovelyy-moonlight @blacknightrises @poppet05 @sweetieseven

@xoxo-shy @nova-j @decaffeinatedparadisepost @fandom-princess-forevermore @theotherworld97

@origshipfan @cocoabliss

It was almost the end of Cami's shift when Klaus and Marcel walked into Rousseau's, the former looking unusually grim. Cami was used to seeing them bickering and bantering, but the atmosphere between the two was tense and charged. They sat down at the far end of the bar, and Marcel leaned over, grabbing a bottle and two glasses, pouring the drinks with an air of forced casualness. Klaus sat with his shoulders slumped, a frown creasing his brow, his fingers tapping anxiously against the countertop.

"You have to pay for that," Cami pointed out, a teasing smile playing on her lips, her hands busy cleaning glasses.

Neither of them smiled back, their expressions serious, and the smile faded from her face. "Okay, what's going on?" she asked, setting the glass down and walking over, her gaze shifting between them.

Marcel hesitated, exchanging a glance with Klaus, before sighing. "It's about Elijah," he said finally, his voice low.

"How is he?" she asked, concern coloring her tone. He had been seeped in grief since your death, and it was hard to see him like that.

"Not well," Marcel replied, rubbing his temples.

Klaus’s hand wrapped around his drink, his knuckles turning white. "He won’t speak, eat, drink," he said, his voice rough, his anger barely contained. "All he does is sit by the window, staring into space."

"Can you blame him?" Cami asked softly, her expression mirroring the grief in her voice. You had been a light in the family, always finding ways to bring them together, and she missed you, too.

"No," Klaus growled, taking a large gulp of his drink. He set it down so hard that tiny cracks formed on the surface of the bar. "That’s why I have to find who did this."

Cami nodded, looking at Marcel. "Any leads?"

Marcel shook his head, an edge of frustration in his voice. "Nothing. All of my connections… they’re either too afraid to talk, or Elijah already found them first." He hesitated, then added, "Including every last member of the Strix."

Cami’s eyes widened, the full weight of the statement sinking in. "He killed… all of them?"

Marcel nodded. "Anyone he thought might be involved, he left dead. Half of them didn’t even know her name."

Klaus slammed his hand down on the counter, anger sparking again. "This is unacceptable," he hissed. "We have nothing but Elijah’s trail of bodies. It’s like the killer is a ghost… we don’t even have a description, not even a name."

"So… no witnesses, no surveillance," Cami muttered, trying to think.

"No magical trace, no scent," Klaus added, his voice filled with frustration.

Cami tapped her fingers against the bar, her brow furrowing as an idea formed in her mind. She braced herself, knowing Klaus wouldn't like it but deciding to speak up anyway. "What if… what if it wasn’t a member of the supernatural community?"

Klaus turned, his gaze darkening. "Cami… she died with a stake in her chest."

"So? I didn’t say they didn’t know about the supernatural, just that they might not be part of it," she countered, crossing her arms and meeting his gaze.

Klaus sighed, leaning back in his seat. "They broke her bones, Camille. All of them," he said flatly, his voice devoid of emotion. "A human couldn’t do that."

"A group of humans could," Cami replied, her gaze flickering between the two vampires. Neither looked convinced.

"Why would humans target her?" Marcel asked, skepticism lacing his voice.

"Why not?" She shot back, her eyes narrowing. "You feed and kill a lot of humans, Marcel. Maybe someone got revenge."

Marcel flinched, a flash of guilt in his eyes.

Klaus’s jaw tensed, his fingers tightening around his glass. "But why her?" he said quietly, his voice low and strained. "Why not go after me, or one of the others?"

"Maybe because she was the weakest link," Cami said gently, hating how it sounded even as she spoke.

Marcel sighed, rubbing his forehead. "It’s… not a terrible theory, Cami. Especially if we’re dealing with someone who had something personal against her."

Klaus's gaze shifted, staring into the distance, his expression troubled. "We’re missing a piece of the puzzle. I just know it," he muttered, his voice distant.

"Well, there is another option," Cami said quietly, an idea flashing into her mind.

Klaus turned, his eyes meeting hers with a slight challenge in them. "And what would that be, love?"

"Go to the police?" she suggested, her voice firm despite the tension in the air.

"What?" Marcel and Klaus blurted out, identical expressions of confusion and shock on their faces. Klaus began to laugh, his entire body shaking with mirth. "You’re hilarious, Camille," he gasped, tears of laughter streaming down his face.

"No, no, I’m not joking," she retorted, her expression unflinching. "You could talk to the police, tell them that your sister-in-law was killed. You could offer a reward, get them to really investigate."

Klaus and Marcel exchanged glances, neither looking keen.

"And what can they find that we can’t?" Klaus asked, his expression souring.

"Forensic evidence," Cami said immediately. "Traces that can lead them to the killer."

"And then what? They go to prison?" Klaus chuckled, shaking his head.

"If they’re human, yes," Cami replied firmly, crossing her arms.

"And if it’s not a human? How will the police catch a vampire or a witch?" Klaus challenged, his brow arching in skepticism.

"They won’t," Cami admitted, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face. "But it's worth a shot?”

Klaus shook his head, his tone brooking no argument. "Absolutely not."

"Niklaus…" Marcel began, his voice trailing off when he caught sight of the fury in Klaus’s gaze.

"The only thing the police will do is get in the way," Klaus said, his voice cold and final.

"In the way of what? You aren’t doing anything," Cami shot back, her own temper rising. "Sitting here drinking and wallowing isn’t going to find who killed her."

Klaus rose to his full height, his anger flaring, casting an intense shadow over the dim bar lighting.

"Woah, woah, relax," Marcel interjected, sensing a fight brewing. "We are not getting anywhere arguing."

Klaus sighed, his shoulders relaxing slightly. "You can try it your way, Camille. Go tell the cops," he muttered, waving his hand dismissively.

"And you can go do whatever it is you do," Cami shot back, grabbing her phone from her pocket and speed-dialing the number.

Klaus watched her walk away, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully, before turning to Marcel. "Have someone tail her. If she gets in over her head, intervene."

"What are you going to do?" Marcel asked, his voice laced with curiosity.

"Finish this bottle, then that one over there… and possibly that one," he said, gesturing toward the collection of bottles behind the bar.

Marcel sighed, lifting his glass and clinking it against Klaus’s. "You can count me in."

13th Century Europe

As soon as the sun began to set, you climbed out of your window, heart pounding as you crossed the convent grounds and took the path leading to the forest. Shadows stretched over the path, but you kept moving, quickening your pace to ease your nerves. You were going to meet Elijah, the thought filling you with both a heady thrill and a quiver of fear.

Ever since the day in the field, when he had kissed you, and you had kissed him back, everything had changed. He had begun attending church, sitting near the back during Mass, his dark eyes meeting yours, his gaze a gentle, knowing promise. After the service, he would linger, waiting until the others had left, stealing quiet moments with you, his hand brushing yours, his soft words dissolving your willpower. The guilt weighed on you, but the pleasure, the anticipation… it was overpowering.

Tonight was different. Tonight, you would meet away from prying eyes and listening ears, beyond the convent walls. The trees loomed before you, their branches dark and skeletal against the fading twilight. You took a shaky breath, then heard soft footsteps from behind. You turned to see Elijah stepping out from the shadows, his gaze warm and intense.

"I thought perhaps you’d changed your mind,” he murmured, his words wrapped in mischief.

“Maybe I should have,” you replied, a blush warming your cheeks.

He chuckled softly, the sound curling through you like smoke. “Shall we?” he asked, extending his hand. Without hesitation, you placed your hand in his, letting him lead you deeper into the forest. The last of the sun’s light filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows over the earth.

The excitement fluttered in your chest, but as you glanced back toward the convent, doubt slipped in, and you resisted the urge to cross yourself. As the night deepened, you reached a small clearing where moonlight streamed through the branches, illuminating the grass in silvery light.

“This is beautiful,” you breathed, looking up at the stars. They seemed brighter than ever, as if they had appeared just for you.

He nodded, pulling a blanket from his bag and laying it on the ground. He sat down, patting the space beside him, his hand beckoning you.

You sank down next to him, the warmth of his body soothing, calming the flutter of anxiety within you.

He wrapped an arm around your shoulders, his lips brushing your temple. "Are you alright?"

"Yes," you replied, letting out a long breath, the tension leaving your body.

"Good," he murmured, his fingers trailing along your arm.

You leaned into his touch, enjoying the feel of his skin against yours. "I can't believe we're doing this," you admitted, your voice barely a whisper.

He chuckled, the sound sending a thrill through you. "Doing what?"

"Sneaking out," you said, smiling shyly.

"There's no sin in two people spending time together," he said, his tone laced with amusement.

“But there is a reason we’re hiding,” you replied softly, thoughts of the convent creeping in. “If the villagers knew…if Mother Mathilde knew…”

“Then let them know,” he murmured, though his tone turned more serious. “Life’s blessings should not be squandered in fear. Sometimes, it’s worth the risk.”

You thought of the sermons, the warnings, the fear of losing God’s favor. Yet, as you looked into Elijah’s eyes, something inside you rebelled, a longing to believe that this closeness, this love, was a blessing. 

You distracted your trembling hands by digging inside your bag, pulling out some dried fruit, cheese, some wine you borrowed from the church, and a special treat you'd been saving. Elijah chuckled as he watched you lay the food out, a grin on his face.

"What?" You asked, blushing.

"You brought all of this?" He replied, raising an eyebrow.

"Of course," you said, the flush in your cheeks deepening.

Elijah took a piece of dried apple, chewing it thoughtfully. "What is that?" he teased, pointing at some dried mushroom caps.

"Special mushrooms," you replied, your heart pounding. "They make everything feel more...real,"

"Oh, really?" Elijah asked, a playful smile spreading across his face, "Show me,"

Your hand shook slightly as you took a piece, placing it on his tongue. He closed his mouth, the muscles in his jaw flexing, a hint of a smirk on his face.

You took another piece, placing it in your own mouth, the earthy taste filling your senses. You chewed slowly, savoring the flavor, a warm, tingling sensation spreading through your body.

"And the church allows this?" he asked.

You shook your head. "They would be furious if they knew,"

"So it's a sin to eat these?" He teased, popping another one in his mouth.

"I think it brings me closer to God," you said, smiling.

"Mmm," he chewed, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Perhaps."

"Well?" You asked, the suspense too much to bear.

He swallowed, his gaze meeting yours. "Interesting," he murmured, the corners of his mouth twitching.

You smiled, relieved that he seemed to like them. "Try the wine,"

He took the bottle, uncorking it and taking a long swig. "Not bad," he said, handing it back to you.

You took a drink, the sweetness coating your tongue, the warmth of the alcohol spreading through your veins. The cold night air seemed to fade, replaced by a feeling of contentment.

You ate the rest of the food, the conversation flowing easily. You told him stories of the convent, the sisters, and your childhood. The world around you becoming a bit hazy, the trees moving with the wind, the moonlight casting a soft glow on the forest floor.

Elijah was a good listener, his eyes never leaving yours. He was charming and witty, his humor making you laugh, his presence making you feel safe.

As the night wore on, the wine and the mushrooms made you feel bolder, loosening your inhibitions. You were lying on the blanket, looking up at the stars, the night air cool against your skin. You curled up against him, feeling his warmth as you rested your head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart.

"Being with you, it feels right," you confessed, tracing patterns on his chest.

He hummed in agreement, his arm tightening around you.

You closed your eyes, savoring the feeling of closeness, the sense of connection. It was a feeling unlike any other, one that filled you with a deep contentment, a peace you had never known before. You had searched for this feeling in God for so long, but it was Elijah who had given it to you.

"Do you see that?" he asked, pointing at a cluster of stars. "It's the great bear, it holds the brightest star in the sky,"

You smiled, watching the constellation, the stars seeming to dance across the sky. "Tell me more," you said, nestling closer.

"It’s a protector, a guardian watching over us.” His gaze lingered on the constellation, his expression distant.

You watched him, captivated by his words, by the passion in his voice.

"I used to look at the stars when I was a boy," he said, his voice soft. "My mother taught me their names, and their stories. I would sit with her for hours, listening as she told me tales of gods and heroes, of quests and battles."

"How very pagan of you," you teased.

He chuckled, the sound vibrating through his chest. "I suppose so," he mused.

You glanced up at him, seeing a hint of sorrow in his eyes. "Where is she now?"

"Dead," he said simply, his gaze fixed on the sky.

"I'm sorry," you murmured, a wave of sadness washing over you.

"It was a long time ago," he replied, his tone detached.

You sat in silence for a moment, the air heavy with sadness and regret. You had no family, none that you remembered, that pain had been dulled by the passing years. But his felt raw, still fresh.

He looked at you, a sad smile on his face. "I didn't come here to burden you with my sorrows,"

"It's not a burden," you protested, shifting to meet his gaze.

He smiled, the sadness fading. "Perhaps not," he murmured.

You began to shiver as the night grew colder, the thin fabric of your habit doing little to protect you from the elements. Elijah noticed, pulling off his cloak and draping it over your shoulders. The warmth of his body lingered on the fabric, his scent enveloping you.

"I'll build a fire," he said, rising to his feet.

You watched as he gathered the materials, his movements quick and efficient. You marveled at his skill, the ease with which he created the flame, the flames dancing across the dry leaves.

"Aren't you afraid someone will see?" You asked, worried about the smoke and the light.

He chuckled, shaking his head. "No," he replied, settling down beside you.

You felt the warmth of the flames, the cold night air forgotten. You looked up, seeing the stars again, the constellations shimmering above.

"I wonder what the stars are made of," you mused, staring up at the vast expanse of the night sky.

"Hmm, perhaps the same things as we are," he said softly.

"Flesh and blood and bone?"

"Yes, and water and air,"

You nodded, a thoughtful expression on your face. "Do you think God is a star?"

He laughed, his gaze fixed on the dancing flames. "Perhaps, it's a pleasant thought, isn't it?"

"Mmm, to think of him looking down on us, guiding us," you sighed, a contented smile on your face.

Elijah smiled, a melancholy look in his eyes. "That would be a nice thought indeed."

The two of you lapsed into silence, the fire crackling, the air thick with the scent of wood smoke. You sat curled up together, watching the stars and enjoying the night.

"Will you tell me a story?" You asked, glancing up at him.

He smiled, a look of surprise on his face. "A story?"

"Yes, like the ones you used to hear, about the star gods," you pressed, eager to learn more about him.

He chuckled and got to his feet, walking over to the fire and stoking it, sending sparks dancing into the night.

"There once was a great goddess, with many mortal children, who she loved with all her heart. But one day, one of her mortal children died at the hands of a beast, and the goddess was filled with grief. She set out to avenge her child, and in her grief she created a weapon, a blade that could cut through the very fabric of the universe."

You watched him, enthralled by his voice, by the story he was telling.

"With this blade she wanted to protect her children, but instead, she ended up dooming them. The goddess stole her children from death and sold them to time, who is far less merciful,"

He paused, his eyes glimmering with emotion.

"Now those children walk the earth, forever tormented by the knowledge that they will never die, and by the guilt of having brought so much suffering into the world."

You sat in silence for a while, the fire casting shadows on the trees, the only sound the crackling of the flames. You thought about his story, the weight of immortality, the price of defying death.

"Does it frighten you, the thought of an endless existence?" He asked, his gaze locking with yours.

"Yes," you admitted, feeling a shiver run down your spine.

"It frightens me too," he said, a grim smile on his face.

You stared at him, the weight of his words sinking in.

"I've never heard a story like that before," you said finally, your voice barely a whisper.

He gave you a faint smile. "It's an old legend, from my homeland,"

"What happened to the goddess? Is she still out there, somewhere?" You asked, curious.

He sighed, a faraway look in his eyes. "She was banished, forced to watch the earth from an empty place, an eternity of loneliness. Despair her punishment."

"That's awful," you murmured, feeling a sense of sadness wash over you.

"That's the fate of anyone who defies death," he said, his voice low and solemn.

You reached out your hand, beckoning him closer, the distance between you unbearable. He sat back down on the blanket and wrapped his arms around you, the warmth of his body soothing, the feel of his breath on your cheek comforting. You looked into his eyes, the dark, mysterious depths drawing you in, the flames flickering.

"Don't be afraid," he murmured, his fingers caressing your cheek. "Death will never touch you,"

"That isn't what I'm afraid of," you confessed, a blush creeping into your cheeks. "It's the idea of a life without you that scares me."

He smiled, his eyes sparkling. "Then we'll just have to make sure that never happens."

You laughed, the sound a mixture of joy and relief. Then you pulled him closer, your lips meeting in a tender kiss, the firelight casting shadows on the trees, the wind rustling the leaves.

You lost track of time, lost in the moment, in the taste of his lips, the warmth of his embrace. It felt like a dream, the flickering flames, the gentle breeze, the stars twinkling above. But it was real, and in that moment, you knew that you were exactly where you were supposed to be. And what you wanted was pleasure.

"Touch me," you whispered, pressing your body against his.

"What would God say?" he murmured, a mischievous smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

"Let's find out," you breathed, kissing him again, the fire burning hotter, the night growing darker.

He pushed you gently onto your back, the blanket soft beneath you, the bright night sky above. His lips trailed down your neck, his fingers slipping beneath your habit, teasing the skin of your thighs. You arched against him, a soft moan escaping your lips, desire pooling in your core.

He pulled away, his gaze burning into yours. "Are you sure?"

"Yes," you gasped, desperate for him, for his touch, for the release only he could give you.

"I don't want to hurt you," he whispered, his voice strained, the desire clear in his eyes.

"You won't," you promised, tugging at the laces of his tunic, aching to feel his skin against yours.

"But you are an innocent," he murmured, a gentle smile on his lips. "I do not wish for you to regret this, not with me."

You cupped his cheek,"I will never regret being with you," you whispered, your thumb caressing his lower lip. "Never,"

He gazed at you for a moment, then bent down, his lips brushing against yours in a feather-light kiss. Then he pulled back, removing his tunic, his body bathed in moonlight. Your breath caught in your throat and you reached out, running your hands over his chest, his skin smooth and warm.

He tugged at the hem of your habit, his gaze locking with yours. "May I?"

"Yes," you whispered, lifting your arms, allowing him to pull it over your head, exposing your bare skin to the cool night air.

He tossed the garment aside, his eyes roaming over your body, a hungry expression on his face. "You are so beautiful,"

"So are you," you replied, drinking in the sight of him, the lean muscle of his torso, the planes of his chest, the strength in his arms.

He leaned down, capturing your lips in a searing kiss, his hand trailing down your body, leaving a trail of fire in its wake. He slipped his fingers inside your undergarments, finding your most sensitive place, his touch setting every nerve alight.

Why must sin feel so good? Did God give us this chance to feel pleasure just so we could resist temptation, or did He create our bodies so we could enjoy it? This felt like the latter, the way your body was reacting, the pleasure building with each stroke of his finger.

You moaned, clinging to him, your nails digging into his shoulders. He pulled away, his breathing ragged, his eyes filled with desire. "Are you certain?"

"Yes," you whispered, pressing against him, craving his touch, his closeness.

"Very well," he murmured, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, the look on his face making your heart race.

He shifted, sliding his hand down your body, his fingers hooking around the waistband of your undergarments, pulling them slowly down your legs. You blushed, the realization that you were naked in front of him, the vulnerability causing your heart to hammer in your chest.

He placed his hand on your inner thigh, his fingers parting the damp curls, his thumb circling your swollen nub, the sensation sending a jolt of pleasure through you, the feeling unlike anything you'd experienced before.

You gasped, clutching at the blanket, the feelings he was creating within you overwhelming, your body responding in ways you didn't know possible.

He teased you, his touch light and deliberate, his fingers stroking and exploring, learning what gave you pleasure, what made you moan, what made your hips buck. He kissed his way down your body, his tongue flicking against the hard peak of your nipple, his teeth grazing the sensitive skin, his mouth hot and wet.

Your hands tangled in his hair, tugging him closer, your need for him desperate. He kissed his way lower, his tongue tracing the curve of your belly, the sharp jut of your hip bone, his hands gripping your thighs, parting them, exposing you completely. You gasped, the realization of what he was going to do was shocking, thrilling, shameful, and yet so, so right.

He dipped his head, his lips grazing the sensitive skin of your inner thigh, his stubble tickling, the sensation making you gasp. He glanced up, his eyes locking with yours, a smirk on his lips. Then he lowered his head, his tongue finding the hidden place that ached for his touch, his fingers stroking, teasing, building the pleasure within you until it was almost unbearable.

Your hips bucked, your breath coming in gasps, his name tumbling from your lips, the word a plea, a prayer. His tongue licking and stroking, tasting and exploring, the sensation pushing you higher, the pressure building until it was too much, until you could no longer hold back, and you cried out, the waves of pleasure crashing over you, your body shuddering.

No, this wasn't sinning, this was heaven, and when you fell, it was his name you cried out.

He moved, his lips meeting yours, his body settling over yours, the hard length of his manhood pressing against your thigh, the feeling strange, yet exciting. You wrapped your arms around his neck, kissing him hungrily, the taste of him sweet and intoxicating. He broke the kiss, cradling your face in his hands, his eyes searching yours.

"Ready?"

"Yes," you whispered, desire coiling within you.

He kissed you again, his tongue tangling with yours, the heat of his body enveloping you. He positioned himself, the tip of his manhood teasing your entrance, the feeling foreign and thrilling. He groaned, the sound muffled against your mouth, his fingers digging into your hips as he pushed forward, the sensation a mixture of pain and pleasure.

You clung to him, burying your face against his shoulder, the fullness, the feeling of him stretching you, the pain slowly ebbing away, replaced by a different kind of ache, a desire to have him deeper, harder. He smiled down at you, his eyes filled with love, the look making your heart swell. He began to move his hips slowly, as he held you close, his arms wrapped around you.

You gasped, the sensation exquisite, every sermon about pleasures of the flesh were erased by the reality of it. The church had gotten it wrong, It wasn't about fleeting pleasures, like indulging in too much honey cake. It was about connection, the joining of two souls, the sharing of love and passion.

He held you like a precious thing, his forehead against yours, his breath warm against your skin. You arched into him, matching his movements as he whispered your name, his voice hoarse and strained, his hands gripping your hips, his movements growing more frantic, his thrusts deeper, harder.

The stars above seemed to burn brighter, the fire flickered, and the forest became alive with the sound of night creatures and the rustle of leaves. The pressure within you built, the sensations becoming overwhelming, the tension almost unbearable.

You cried out, your body trembling as you reached your peak, the waves of pleasure coursing through you. He groaned, his body tensing, his fingers digging into your skin as he followed you, the world seeming to stand still, the night air thick with the scent of smoke, of earth, and the sweetness of pleasure.

The world came rushing back, and he rolled onto his side, pulling you close, his lips brushing against yours. You lay together, your bodies entwined, the sound of your heartbeat the only thing you could hear.

"I have never felt such happiness," you whispered, a smile on your face.

He chuckled, the sound reverberating through his chest, the sensation pleasant. "I'm glad I did not disappoint,"

You giggled, shaking your head. "You could never,"

"You are too kind," he said, pressing a kiss to the top of your head.

You sighed, contentment washing over you. You gazed up at the stars, the vast expanse of the night sky making you feel small, but protected, sheltered in his arms. It was as if the entire universe had been created just for the two of you, as if nothing else mattered but this moment, the feeling of peace and contentment.

"You know," he murmured, his lips grazing your ear. "I think we can stay here for a while,"

"That sounds nice," you replied, nuzzling against his chest, the smell of his skin, the warmth of his body comforting.

He hummed in agreement, his hand stroking your back, the sensation soothing, the night air cool on your bare skin. The fire began to die down, and he rose to tend to it, the flames casting shadows across his body, the sight mesmerizing.

"It is strange," you said, propping yourself up on your elbow, watching him. "I never knew I could feel this way, so happy and peaceful,"

"Life is like that," he said, a thoughtful look on his face. "We often do not know what is waiting for us, but the path we follow leads to places we could never have imagined,"

You stood, grabbing the bottle of wine and walking over to him, your legs were trembling slightly and you tripped, falling into his arms, the red wine spilling over the both of you.

"Oh," you exclaimed, a blush creeping into your cheeks, his bare chest sticky with the sweet wine.

He chuckled, steadying you, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

"I see that the mushrooms are having an effect,"

"Is it that obvious?" you asked, blushing, the blush deepening when he laughed.

"I believe the drink is helping as well,"

You looked up at him, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips, his hair messy, his skin flushed.

"I suppose so,"

You handed him the bottle, his gaze holding yours as he drank, the wine dribbling down his chin. You stared, mesmerized, the sight igniting a fire within you. You took his hand, pulling him closer, tasting the sweet liquid from his lips, the wine mingling with the taste of him. Then you pulled away as a strange thrill sparked within you, and you began to skip around the fire, laughing, your hair flying wildly, the stars seeming to twinkle brighter.

He laughed, his voice echoing through the night air, the sound making your heart race. He caught you in his arms, lifting you off the ground, twirling you around, the flames dancing around you, the night sky a canopy above, the fireflies sparkling in the darkness. You felt so wild and free, and you wanted to dance with him forever, to stay lost in the moment, the night a dream, the stars a song.

"You make me so happy,"

He gazed at you, his eyes filled with emotion, his expression tender. "As you make me, my love,"

You paused at his words, the weight of them sinking in, the realization that he truly loved you, that he felt the same way about you as you did about him.

"Elijah, I- I," you stammered, the words failing you.

"It's alright," he murmured, his lips grazing yours, his touch soft and gentle.

"I've never felt this way about anyone, I-" you gasped, the feelings too big for your words.

He smiled, cupping your face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears.

You closed your eyes, savoring the feeling of closeness, of being wrapped in Elijah’s arms. But the reality of what you had just done, what you had been doing for weeks, began to sink in, bringing a wave of dread beneath the warmth.

“I’ve never known a life outside the convent,” you murmured, tracing delicate patterns on his skin, feeling the quiet pull of guilt. The convent’s walls, the endless rules, and the silent prayers suddenly felt a world away, and yet their shadow lingered.

“But now you have,” he whispered, his hand moving softly through your hair.

“What will become of me?” you asked, a tremor of fear slipping into your voice as you looked up at him. You thought of Mother Mathilde, of the church and their harsh lessons on purity and sin. The thought of facing them now, of explaining what you had done, made your heart pound with a quiet panic.

Elijah’s eyes softened, and a slight smile touched his lips. “We’ll go wherever the stars take us,” he promised. “The world is waiting for us.”

You bit your lip, a mixture of fear and excitement blooming inside you. The idea of leaving, of stepping beyond the safety of the convent walls, thrilled you in ways you could barely understand.

“Do you swear it?” you whispered, the question catching in your throat.

He pressed his forehead to yours, his gaze never wavering. “I swear it,” he said, his voice full of conviction.

"I love you," you breathed, the words tumbling from your lips.

He smiled, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "And I love you, more than the stars and the sky,"

You closed your eyes, resting against him, feeling a warmth unlike any other. Yet, as the first light of dawn began to creep over the horizon, a quiet fear lingered. The convent, the rules, the life you had always known... They weren’t gone. They waited for you.

You had defied God, broken every rule. And you would face the consequences.

The question was, when.

Freya entered the courtyard, carrying a cup of blood, and found Rebekah already seated beside Elijah, her hand resting gently on his arm as he sat in silence. Rebekah’s gaze was fixed on her brother, her eyes full of worry, unwilling to leave him alone in his grief. Elijah didn’t seem to notice her presence, his eyes distant and hollow, fixed somewhere beyond the walls around them.

Freya approached, giving her sister a small nod before placing the cup beside Elijah. He didn’t move to take it, but his eyes flickered, betraying a glimmer of longing. His skin was ashen, his hair unkempt, and his clothes were crumpled and torn. It was a painful sight for Freya and Rebekah, both of whom knew him as the ever-composed, dignified brother.

“You should feed,” Freya urged softly. “I’ve added some herbs that might help.”

“I am not hungry,” he murmured, his voice barely a whisper.

Rebekah squeezed his arm gently, glancing up at Freya with a look that conveyed her own helplessness. “She wouldn’t want this for you, Elijah,” she said quietly, her voice full of tenderness and sorrow.

Elijah’s gaze shifted slightly, the grief in his eyes so profound that Rebekah felt it cut through her as sharply as a blade. “Don’t,” he said, his tone hard, as if even hearing your name spoken aloud was more than he could bear.

Freya and Rebekah exchanged a silent understanding, both realizing that Elijah’s pain was too raw, too deep to be soothed. The three of them sat in silence for a moment, the weight of loss hanging thickly in the air.

“What did Klaus and Marcel find?” Elijah asked at last, his voice cracking, though he tried to keep it steady.

“Nothing so far,” Freya answered. “Not a lot of people left to question after-”

“After you dismembered most of the suspect pool,” Kol chimed in from the balcony above, his tone light, a mischievous grin on his face.

Elijah’s gaze sharpened, fixing on Kol with a coldness that might have made anyone else falter. Kol only smirked, strolling down the stairs to join them.

“You’re no help,” Freya hissed, irritated.

Kol grabbed the cup of blood and swirled it lazily, shrugging. “Not in your little murder investigation, no… But I do have something rather interesting to share.”

Elijah’s gaze flickered, the faintest trace of curiosity surfacing. “And what would that be?”

Rebekah looked up at Kol, her wariness evident. “What is this about?” she asked, her tone guarded.

“A spell,” Kol replied, setting the cup down and glancing between them, an almost devilish glint in his eyes. “A very old spell.”

Freya’s eyes narrowed. “Kol…” she warned, sensing where this was leading.

“A way to bring her back,” Kol said, his gaze drifting to Elijah.

Elijah sat up straighter, his expression a mix of disbelief and restrained hope. “Explain,” he demanded, his voice hard.

Kol’s smirk softened, his tone turning serious. “It's a spell that can bind two souls together, to form a connection that transcends death itself. A bond that can be used to pull a soul back into its original body, no matter how long they've been apart, no matter how many miles have stretched between them, or how deeply the grave has claimed them."

Elijah was on his feet, his eyes wild with a mixture of desperate hope and anger. "Why did you not come forward sooner?" he snarled, advancing toward Kol.

"Because I only just found the damn thing," Kol replied, not backing down. "It took months to translate the Latin, longer to decipher the incantation, and then I had to identify the ingredients."

Freya’s eyes narrowed. "Ingredients?" she asked, suspicion clear in her tone.

"Some of them are... difficult to come by," Kol said carefully. "And they require a rather unique skill set."

"Get to the point," Rebekah interjected, her gaze as cold and unyielding as Elijah’s.

Kol’s eyes flickered with a hint of challenge as he explained, "The spell requires a witch descended from a long and powerful bloodline. As well as a blood sacrifice, lots of blood."

"Human?" Freya asked, her expression hard.

Kol’s smile returned, amusement glinting in his eyes. "Oh, witch would suffice, or vampire."

"And this witch from a powerful bloodline? I’m guessing Freya can’t perform the spell," Rebekah said, her gaze sharp.

"You guess correctly, sister dear," Kol replied, eyes twinkling with mischief.

"You’ve got a solution, and I’m not part of it?" Freya cut in, her tone incredulous.

"I wouldn’t dream of it, sister; we’ll need you. But this spell calls for more power than any single witch can provide," Kol explained, his gaze shifting between his siblings.

"Who do you have in mind?" Rebekah asked, her tone laced with suspicion. "Davina?"

“Absolutely not. My girl’s not getting involved in this,” Kol said firmly, his gaze hardening.

"Who then?" Rebekah pressed.

Kol’s grin returned. "Miss Bonnie Bennett, remember her? Lovely witch, very powerful, and quite capable of casting the spell."

"The Bennett witch?" Elijah echoed, skepticism in his voice.

"The very same," Kol said, a smirk tugging at his lips. "The problem is, we aren’t exactly on friendly terms. She won’t be eager to help us."

"What other ingredients do you need?" Elijah asked, his eyes boring into Kol.

"That's the tricky part," Kol sighed. "To pull her soul back, we need someone connected to her, someone who cares deeply for her."

"And?" Rebekah urged, sensing there was more.

“We need their heart,” Kol finished, his gaze flicking to Elijah. “The spell requires the heart of the person who loves her most.”

Silence fell as Elijah absorbed Kol’s words, his expression unreadable. His jaw clenched, the weight of the sacrifice sinking in, but he held Kol’s gaze steady. When he spoke, his voice was low and unwavering. "How soon can you get the Bennett witch here?"

"I'll go to Mystic Falls myself and fetch her," Kol replied, a wicked grin spreading across his face.

"I'm coming with you," Rebekah said firmly.

"No," Kol shot back, his tone suddenly sharp.

Rebekah’s eyes flashed as she fixed him with an unwavering glare. "Why not?"

"You need to stay here, to take care of him,” Kol replied, gesturing toward Elijah. “We can't afford him going rogue again."

"I'm fine," Elijah snapped, his gaze hard.

"Sure you are," Kol quipped, a wry smile playing on his lips.

“Kol,” Freya cut in, her voice laced with warning.

"I won't be gone long, a few days at most," Kol said, looking between them.

Elijah’s jaw tightened, a flicker of conflict in his eyes. "Very well," he conceded, his tone resigned.

"Splendid," Kol said, his smile returning. "I'll leave immediately. I can make the flight tonight."

"I'm still coming with you," Rebekah insisted, her gaze locked on Kol.

Kol rolled his eyes, then relented. "Fine. Let's go,"

Rebekah nodded, rising to her feet. She placed a hand on Elijah’s shoulder, her gaze softening as she held his eyes a moment longer than necessary. “We’ll get her back, okay? No matter what.”

Elijah’s expression remained impassive, but when his gaze met hers, Rebekah saw a glimmer of hope… a faint belief that maybe, just maybe, you would return to him.

{Part One}{Part Two}{Part Four}{Part Five}{Part Six}

[glitxd]

My friends and I would talk extensively about our operator's pre-incident school life as if they're just children, thought I'd spill some about Strix.

Strix always has a facination towards his father's job as a bio-engineer, he wishes to follow in his father's footsteps to find a way to help cure glaucoma and similar degenerative eye diseases. He wishes to aid others by being either an engineer or a doctor by the time they reach Tau.

...until the whole void jump that is.

But yeah, I wonder if the Zariman also teaches basic areas of studies aside from teaching kids about existential life crises, like extracurricular activities and clubs (like normal human schools yk)-

[beannoss]

Twilight headcanon

Inspired by this super lovely art by @roucaelum-art 😍! (brief mood spoiler: roucaelum's art is so soft and so sweet! This hc has a touch of the bittersweet 🫶)

After Strix, when the Forgers are well established, no secrets between them, Twilight starts journaling. Obviously this is a security risk, so he creates an elaborate cipher. He tests it on Franky. He tests it on the cipher-breakers at WISE. He even feeds some to the SSS. None break it. Satisfied, he starts to journal. Twilight's journaling time is something he starts to jealously protect; given how much it means to him and helps him process things, Yor starts to protect it jealously, too.

Later in life, when he and Yor have been together for decades, he teaches the cipher to her in case she wants to read and/or share his journals after he dies. It takes time, of course, but not as much as someone might otherwise think, knowing Yor and looking in from the outside. This is in large part because Twilight creates the cipher with Yor in mind. Rarely one to do something for a single purpose when multiple are available, creating it with the intention that Yor can easily learn it also works to confound others in his profession. You see, he’d never met anyone who thinks the way Yor does, and certainly it's far outside espionage or intelligence norms, a way in which no one in those professions would expect a cipher to operate. This revelation he saves for his final journal, and Yor only learns it had been intended specifically for her after his death.

To that point, Twilight does (peacefully) predecease Yor, but she finds she can’t share his journals with the outside world, not yet. They're too precious, too close, touch her too deeply, to share outside the family.

She teaches Anya the cipher, so their daughter can read and share his journals after Yor passes away.

Anya does: she reads her Papa’s journals. Spends a few months, a couple of years, keeping them between herself and her parents' memories. Twilight’s accounts, unsurprisingly, have incredible detail about Yor and Yor’s life and Yor’s opinions and Yor’s views and Yor’s daily life and the way Yor moved through the world. There’s an incredible amount of detail about Anya too: Twilight hadn’t started journaling until years after Strix ended, nearly a decade after he adopted Anya. But, of course, his memory was impeccable, and once he started writing, he never stopped.

Anya reads about herself, about her mother, about their loved ones and their enemies. She reads his words about politics and the news and Twilight's opinions on literature, film, various cuisines. The bakery down the street and the neighbour with the lush roses. Spycraft, war, and international relations. Parenthood, partnership, friendship. Every other idiosyncratic thing he chose to write about. All of it written in her father’s matter-of-fact style from his matter-of-fact perspective, which was always more full of love than he would admit or accept.

She grieves anew, softly, and in her own time.

One day, when she's ready, Anya goes to her father’s favourite archive. She asks to speak with the archivist team. She asks if they would like the journals of the greatest spy in Westalis history: had they ever come across the name Twilight in their research?

She teaches them how to decipher his code (it is, of course, the most complex and creative cipher the lead archivist has ever seen. Anya thinks of her mother, and smiles). It takes them time to go through everything; it takes them time to verify it. But of course, they do. Because Twilight was thorough and he was precise and and he was an excellent planner, prescient more often than not. He ensured there were enough careful points of reference that diligent researchers would be able to confirm his identity and the veracity of what he wrote. And he would only trust the most diligent of researchers.

It's a small archive; the launch of the display of Twilight's journals is similarly small. Anya thinks he would prefer that. The idea of hoards of people reading his words all at once, even if he had intended their being made public, might be enough to revive his stomach aches from beyond the grave.

Anya attends the opening with her loved ones, and later, at home, she shares her own memories of her Papa, and her Mama, and the times they saved the world.

[piracytheorist]

I find it really important that in the last episode, Operation Strix didn't even cross Twilight's mind for a single moment. When he stands outside early in the morning, he becomes determined to "traverse the difficult obstacle" before him... but it quickly becomes apparent that this "obstacle" is simply Anya's inexplicable mood swings.

And while he goes by the entire day going along with whatever Anya asks to do, mentally noting what makes her excited and happy - and what makes her upset, like losing at mini golf - not once does he even mention the "mission". Subconsciously, yes, if asked, he'd say that Anya's happiness and stability is what Operation Strix depends on. But in his immediate thoughts, it's just him trying to make sense of the behaviour he sees, and trying to encourage things that will bring out positive behaviour.

Waiting until Anya gets a scoring point in mini golf. Letting Anya read comics while in the library - and taking note when she starts at the puzzle, then looks upset by it (though he misunderstands the reasons of her change in expression there, as he doesn't know she realized the puzzle wouldn't be an effective distraction for him). Taking her roller-skating, taking her to a magician show, getting her food she seems to enjoy.

And while you could say he's being a little too methodical with it - with all his "observe, analyze" internal orders... that's not really that far from what an actual caring parent does. The ship offers a lot of opportunities for entertainment, and just like a parent who wants to take some time off and offer stimulation and fun to their child, Loid takes a step back and allows Anya to guide him through activities, taking note of the ones she seems to enjoy.

And yet, Anya ends up looking like this.

But this time, Twilight doesn't resort to his usual "I'm a failure of a spy" rhetoric. He is confused, very much so, but he doesn't despair as much. Though getting upset, he puts his determination to see things through in priority.

And at the end? He fears that what will break apart is the Forger family, not Operation Strix.

Subtly, we start to see how his priorities are starting to change. Without him even understanding it, he focuses so much on keeping the family together "for the sake of the mission"... that he completely forgets to even think about the mission.

And then, he tries a quiet and kind approach, fitting it to Anya's needs. He asks Anya if her stomach hurts, he's glad to hear she's having fun but keeps his worried expression to encourage Anya to tell him what's really wrong, and when she shares her feelings, he's supportive, even showing sympathy by saying he would have liked it too if Yor could join them.

His final inner thoughts are him reminding himself that Anya is young enough to sometimes express her emotions in an unpredictable way, and that it was something as simple as missing Yor that made her look upset.

And thus, though he's being realistic about the possibilities of meeting Yor, he offers to try and communicate with her in order for them to meet up. As soon as Anya expresses her concern, he takes the role of understanding her reasons and providing comfort... and all without ever talking about how it would benefit his mission. In this episode, he's simply trying to make a little child feel happy and entertained, listening to her concerns, and offering solutions. And though he may not realize it immediately... the fact that he hasn't been wearing his WISE pin during the entire cruise speaks for itself.

Working as a spy and fully dedicating himself to this way of life is how he's managed to survive in a world of war politics, so it's certainly not easy to fully discard it in one go. But how he goes from "The Handler knew Anya relaxing was about Operation Strix all along" in the previous episode to "Focus on what Anya likes, be supportive and understanding, mission what mission" in this one is very carefully handled to show how even though his methods stay similar, his priorities are slowly shifting.

(Anime only fan here, don't spoil me for the manga)

[seradyn]

Fun and unique nicknames for our favorite dragon boy 🥰🐉

Meant to share this sooner but got distracted 😅

For a long time, I just had Sylus as ‘Hubby’ in my phone, but it didn’t feel very unique, and I wanted to make his nickname special. When his myth dropped, I immediately had an idea that lead me to lots of ways to give Sylus a nickname that really suits him and indicates the bond him and MC have :)

I play DnD, and I knew there was a partial dragon language made for the game. As soon as I saw Sylus was a dragon I raced to the wiki to study up on dragon speak, and was not disappointed.

I combed through every word currently in the draconic dictionary, and here are my favorites:

First, the best word for our purposes imo; the prefix ‘er-’, which is the possessive ‘my’ used to indicate intimate/romantic relationships

This word is an utter gift, and you’ll quickly see why. It allows for all kinds of pairings with other fun words, such as:

‘Har’, meaning echo and ‘haurach’, meaning fate.

So you could call Sylus ‘Erhaurach’, meaning ‘my fate’ ☺️

Or you could pair it with something even cuter like ��noachi’, and call him ‘Ernoachi’, ‘my little treasure/my dear’

You can also always incorporate these into fics with dragon!Sylus himself and have him call MC these names of course!

‘Qal’ and ‘qallim’ are also fun, but ‘qallim’ can’t be paired with the ‘er-��� prefix and be grammatically correct. However I still thought it was a fun word and worth looking at.

These last few before the end (and the word I ultimately stuck with) are more useful for just compliments, but can still work as a nickname (sans the middle, just didn’t want to take two screenshots 😅)! I really love ‘vorastrix’, for obvious lore reasons. Though, unfortunately I didn’t find a word for ‘sorceress’ exactly. The last word I want to mention also has the ‘-strix’ suffix, and its gender-neutral, so I would argue the word works for any gender.

And lastly, this is the word I decided to use with the ‘er-’ prefix, and it just fits so perfectly;

So now, you can call Sylus ‘my dragon’ while simultaneously indicating your relationship status 🥰🥰

But yeah. I just thought this was a really fun and sweet way to honor Sylus’s dragon heritage, while also being really intimate and loving with him. Wanted to share in case anyone else was looking for something more special to call him. Have fun and mix and match as you like! 💕

[strixamans]

WIP Tag Train

Thanks, @arachnomancer!

Fresh and also mostly unedited.

“You’re a good dancer,” he says. “You would have had me fooled.”

“Well, I didn’t exactly have to fool anyone, technically. At least, not in that respect.” She perches her free hand on her hip. “I was the new girl. All I had to do was look sexy, and not make an ass of myself on stage. Nothing fancy.”

“Perhaps.” Astarion eyes her shyly, running his thumb along the t-shirt in his lap as he speaks. “You move well, though. I liked watching you. Well, and I hated it...”

He pauses, letting out a breath. “But you were very good.”

“Thank you,” she says

There’s a more gently brooding look to him now, a softness in the knit of his brow. An earnest, pensive mien; one that tugs at the strings of her sympathy. And for a moment, she just watches him pick through his feelings, with the commercials playing on in the background.

[commercial snippet- open to suggestions. grout cleaner? lol idk]

“Would you give me a dance?” His eyes are wholly focused on her again, though his expression, and his tone, are absent both flirtatious overtones and snark.

It takes Strix a moment to process what he asked. The question feels like it came out of the blue, even if it didn’t really. It isn’t surprising, so much as, well… that she wishes he would just admit he took on all that risk because he couldn’t stand the thought of her getting naked in front of strangers for a single afternoon. That he decided to show up unannounced and do her job for her just because he was jealous—whether or not he likes to think of himself that way.

She wishes he would just say that much, instead of asking whether she would give him a dance. Him, of all people. Of course she would give him a gods-damned lap dance—and surely, he knows it.

Still, there’s something about the earnest way he’s looking at her that keeps her from deferring. “I would,” she answer—plainly, and honest. Raising her eyebrows, when he finally starts to smirk.

“…You mean, right now?”

Astarion shrugs.

“Are you sure?” she presses him. “After all that—”

“Please?” He gives her one of those dramatic, sulky pouts with the puppy-dog eyes. An embarrassingly effective method of getting what he wants from her, as she’s come to learn.

“…I’ll pay for it, of course.”

“Gods… Fine.” Strix rolls her eyes and takes a long sip of beer, before setting the bottle down on the night stand next to Astarion’s. She isn’t entirely sure why she’s saying yes to this—well, no… She knows exactly why. But perhaps it’s also a gesture of goodwill; an olive branch, in the form of an amateur lap dance.

“You don’t have to pay,” she goes on. “But you do have to wear the shirt.”

He issues no complaint, putting on his new t-shirt with a grin. And she can’t help but giggle at the sight of him in it, even from the front.

“Made in Reithwin… Now you’ll really fit in at The Waxing Moon.” She takes another moment to look at him, sighs, then pats the floral bedspread in front of her. “Come. Sit here.”

He scoots into position, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed and placing his feet on the floor, while she lays down the rules. “Remember, I can touch you, but you can't touch me.”

Strix pauses; then adds, “And if you try to catch a tit in your mouth, I’ll slap you. Just like I slapped the last guy.”

“How crass,” Astarion says, a devious gleam in his eye, as she comes to stand with her legs on either side of his, hands reting on his shoulders. “I wouldn't dream of it.”

Of course, they both know he’s going to try it. And of course, Strix is sure he’s looking forward to it, just as much as she is; for in spite of her apprehensions, there’s something about the sight of him, sitting so politely in his silly new t-shirt and expensive underwear…

“Nature’s Fury: Colder than Death is back!”

Astarion’s eyes flit to the television in apparent annoyance.

“Lars and Ravenna Bouldergard made the drive from Neverwinter to Xantharl’s Keep every year since they'd been married, to visit visit Ravenna's parents for the winter holidays. But in Nightal 1487, one wrong turn in the midst of a brutal winter storm turned their annual tradition into a forty-eight hour nightmare, from which only one of them made it out alive…”

“Should I turn that off?” Strix asks, amused.

“Please. I’m not sure anyone wants to receive a lap dance to dramatized reenactments of people freezing to death.”

“Fair enough.” She gives him a sly look, reaching for the remote. “Even though they often take their clothes off...?”

@dramatiquechipmunk @vividiana @shandoratheexplorer @deadly-diminuendo @nocryptographer (I hear you're writing fic again?!) @alwaysmauria (I know I just tagged you, but would to hear your suggestions for this commercial, lol)