#that day? AUGUST 28TH. It is fate...

[poke-is-a-dork]

Pokemon masters anniversary?? Sorry, I think you meant to say Lear's Birthday! Because that is what it is, nintendo told me personally. Happy birthday, king!

(And a Bonus bc I wanted to draw these 2 as well but I didn't have the time or compositional skills to add them to the main one)

[if-whats-new]

What's New In IF? Issue 11 (2024)

By Erika, Marjorie, Axelle, and Noi

Now Available!

Due to the early release of this issue, any release or update during June 28th unmentioned here will be included in next week's issue.

Itch.io. - Keep Reading below

Due to Internal things, the June and July issues will only update on events and games. We hope to resume regular activities and include more pages by August. Note: while Axelle is mentioned, they are currently on a break.

~ EVENT SPOTLIGHT : NEO-TWINY JAM ~

Happening every June, the Neo-Twiny Jam is a jam with a simple restriction: you are only allowed 500 words to create a game!

Even though the wordcount is tiny, it is still larger than the one given by Porpentine's original and pivotal 2015 jam, the Twiny Jam.

With 200 more words (still excl. code and non-story screens), and the possibility of using any program (not just Twine), the jam is meant as a commemoration of Porpentine's influence.

Not just looking to make people think creatively about the restriction, the Neo-Twiny Jam is using its platform to raise money for charity!

Every submitted entry (up to 3 per creator) is matched for a donation to TransEquality, an LBGTQ+ organisation.

If you have 500 words in your IF pocket, come and submit it for a good cause! From kinetic to parser, experimental to conventional, and even visual novels, the Neo-Twiny Jam accepts all IF! The organisers are also looking for donors (matching or set donation). @neo-twiny-jam/@neointeractives

Looking for inspiration? Check out last edition!

~ CONFERENCE ~

The Narrascope happened last weekend both in-person and online, with many different kinds of talks related to IF and game making. If you weren't able to attend, don't worry, they will be uploaded on YouTube down the line.

~ ONGOING (VOTING) ~

The Rayuela (Spanish IFComp) is also still in their voting period. If you are Spanish speaking, come support the entries!

~ ONGOING (SUBMITTING) ~

The submission deadline for the ParserComp is this weekend! Whether it's classic or more experimental, there is still time to submit a parser!

If you are looking to make a Visual Novel, the Otome Jam will be looking for entries until July 1st. There is also the Josei jam running parallel to it.

While it is not IF-focused, the Anti-Romance Jam is once again looking for anti-romance submissions!

Love/Violence is another unranked game jam looking for entries dealing with Love and Violence and all the things in between (also accepts non IF) The deadline is this weekend!

Only a few days left to register an intent to participate in the IntroComp, a yearly competition where you can submit unreleased WIP and compete for cash prize… if you finish the game within a year!

Just a bit over a week left, to Fix the Worst Visual Novels Jam.

Can you write something in French? Or use Google Translate? The annual Nouvim3000 is an unranked francophone IF jam where you need to write between 500 and 3k words. This year's theme is “INCOMBUSTIBLE”.

~ OTHER ~

The Interactive Fiction Showcase is still running! If you have completed an IF piece this year, consider submitting it! It is happening only on itch!

~ NEW RELEASE ~

The Runaway Savior (bipsi) is a visual IF piece about running away from your fate @bntarwarn.

See No Evil (Twine) is a short horror game where you need to escape while… blinded.

The Labyrinth (Twine) is an atmospheric horror game set in a labyrinth.

Return of the Sword (qBase64) is a puzzle parser game involving Excalibur.

Don't forget to check the events mentioned in previous pages! There were a lot of really cool entries!

~ NEW RELEASE (WIP) ~

The Catalyst (CScript) is a Chosen One-trope project with a twist: you are the sacrifice.

Dangerous Games: Kindred Spirits (CScript) is a mature murder mystery game with a heavy dash of romance. @taintedsoul-if

Forever Gold (Twine) is a dark-fantasy mature adventure project. @forevergoldgame

~ GAMES UPDATES ~

Tainted Souls: Fables & Myths (CScript) has added the Second Chapter to the demo.

The Ultimate Magic Student (CScript) added 33k new words in this update.

Dance of the Night (CScript) added extra content to the demo.

Echoes of Kingdom: The Last Stand (CScript) has had a major update.

Citadel (CScript)'s new update is now available for Patreon subscribers. @bouncyballcitadel

Virtue's End (CScript) has completed the rewrite of the First Chapter. @virtues-end

The In-Betweeners (CScript) has added Chapter 5 to the demo.

Magehunter: Phoenix Flame (CScript) has updated to version v5.1.

Bacchanal (Twine) has made their next update available to Patreon. @bacchanal-if

Within Your Eyes (Tumblr)'s demo has been updated. @within-your-eyes-if

Camp Overlook (CScript) has released its First Episode. @campoverlook-if

Eastend (CScript)'s demo has updated. @eastend-if

Kenneski (Twine) added Chapter 2. @devilishmango

~ OTHER ~

The Queer Games Bundle (@queergamesbundle) is live on itch.io. Support a bunch of queer creators (including Interactive Fiction authors!) by purchasing the bundle!

The Summer Steam Sale is happening! And deals include IF games like Arcadie: Second Born and CoG games, as well as VN like Our Life! (@sofia-d-asb, @choiceofgames, @gb-patch)

To Death I Embrace (Twine) is looking for beta-testers. @to-death-i-embrace

We apologize if we missed an update or a release. We are but volunteers trying to find as much info as possible, but sometimes news pass through the cracks.

Please, let us know if something should have been added to the zine, and we will shout it out next week!

ERIKA, MARJORIE, AXELLE, AND NOI

WHAT'S NEW IN IF? 2024-ISSUE 11

[sunflowervoltwentyeight]

Happy 28th! Here is my August 2024 fic rec, organized by word count, from longest to shortest. You can view my other fic recs here. Enjoy!

With The Strength To Carry On by lovelarry10, therogueskimo (113k)

The American British Doctoral Exchange Program was the best thing that ever happened to Louis. It gave him a chance to start over and make a real difference in the world. He could focus on work and not be distracted by anything or anyone. When Harry Styles shows up as the new intern, he turns Louis' world upside down. ~ Harry Styles had one passion in life, and that was helping sick children feel better. Putting smiles on their faces made Harry feel like he was making up for past mistakes and losses. When he gets accepted to the American British Doctoral Exchange Program, he treats it as the chance of a lifetime to make a difference internationally. He didn't expect to fall for his mentor along the way.

... or the one where Louis and Harry are doctors, and things happen.

Stranger Than Larry Fiction by Larrysmomfics / @larrysmomfics (90k)

It's been twelve years since Harry met Louis on TXF, became best mates with him, eventually falling head over heels in love with him. Six years post One Direction deciding to go on hiatus and now everyone is doing their own thing. All the boys have solo careers, some are touring, and with their busy lives in play, Harry and Louis have sort of grown apart. Harry's been filling the Louis void by devouring Larry fanfics, giving himself a chance to love Louis from afar in his own way. So far it's worked for him and he's content with his love of Louis being of the unrequited variety.

That all changes, however, when Harry reads a particularly emotional and classic fic in the fandom, and he simply can't help but call Louis despite his sobs to tell him all about it, inadvertently sending Louis down the Larry fic rabbit hole as well.

OR

A canon-divergent AU where Louis and Harry read Larry Stylinson fanfiction.

Can’t Hide It, You Might As Well Embrace It by supernope (67k)

Together since they were teenagers, Harry and Louis are professors at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. They may also secretly be married.

Someone to Fly Home To by kingsofeverything / @kingsofeverything (34k)

Louis. 55 year old pilot who wants someone to fly home to.

Harry swipes right. Or Louis and Harry’s marriage ended more than a decade ago, but fate keeps bringing them back together.

You Are Half of Me (and I Am All for You) by angelichl / @angelichl (24k)

One Direction, an obscure indie rock band, is about to embark on their first cross-country tour, living out of Louis' beloved van named Patricia.

Harry is in love, and Louis is oblivious. Or is he?

Featuring skinny-dipping in Texas waterfalls, getting lost in the desert, stargazing under the New Mexico sky, performing in front of crowds that grow in size each night, and falling in love on the road during the greatest summer of their lives.

Just a Minute More by kingofthefridaynight (6k)

“Look,” Harry said now, tapping Louis repeatedly on his thigh. There it was, the proud beam on Harry’s face, as he showed off a piece of fabric in a wooden circle. The bright yarn in the middle vaguely resembled a flower. Either way, Louis smiled, “It’s beautiful, angel.” “You recognise it?” Harry asked with a teasing smirk, wagging the hoop a little into Louis’ direction. “Or are you just being nice?” Harry knew him too well. He could read him like a book. That’s what marriage is about though, Louis figured, as he tried to squint at the flower to see what it was supposed to resemble. “I’m sorry, love,” Louis confessed after a second. “Tell me, though?”

Or, a rainy day in bed, where all they do is enjoy each other’s company.

[kiara-ish]

Seoul (Teaser)[MDI!]

Pairing: Jeon Jungkook x fem!reader

Rating: 18+

Genre: roommates au, romance, angst, slice of life

Warnings: angst, reader is undermined for being from a small town/countryside, party animal jungkook, typical uni rivalry, reader is a miser, jungkook is a spender, fluff, domestic fluff, fluff everywhere, some fights and oh yes, smut :) more warnings to be updated with each part.

Summary: You never thought that you'd get that job in Seoul let alone make the decision to move there; even shockingly have a roommate! Knowing your luck and accepting your fate, you awaited a loud, obnoxious roommate with no understanding of your unfamiliarity to the city life. While some of it did come true, your life in Seoul with Jeon Jungkook turned out to be so much more than the cliche girl-meets-world dramas. It did not help that he was awfully attractive and has tattoos!

a/n: Although I am still very much working on a number of WIPs, I'll be going on indefinite writing hiatus after the completion of this series (unless I change my mind halfway). Haegeum should be out by July end or mid-August and well, as for the rest, we'll see. There will be no taglist for this fic. My time here at Tumblr as a fic writer has been filled with mixed feelings but with the plans that I have now, I'll be returning to being a nameless viewer after this series ends. Thank you everyone who supported, loved and interacted with this blog! Although this message sounds like a goodbye, it isn't one. Yet.

m.list | series nav.

Teaser under the cut.

Above you, the sky was a canvas of colours and the clouds, specs of dust on it. You watched the kids slip and fall into the puddles that the storm last night left as remnants. The streets were filled with faces that you have been seeing since the day your eyes started to see the world for what it truly was. You wondered if the mad man that loitered around the raw fish restaurant always looked as sad; then again, you barely knew how to read people, let alone a mad man.

In the pocket of your ironed, pristine suit pants was a heavy piece of paper. In quivering, intended-to-be-fancy lettering was the address of the place and the name of the person who would be staying with you. You've always heard how common and efficient 'roommates' were in Seoul from the auntie who sold seasoned corns by the beach.

Your roommate – what kind of a person were they? Your feet abruptly halted in the middle of the road and you bit your tongue in frustration. Father had told you a hundred times at least, to never, ever stop in the middle of a busy road no matter how loud your thoughts were.

He had exclaimed in fascination and pride of having seen it firsthand, "The streets in Seoul have more buses running in a minute than in a week here!"

But you couldn't contain your nerves as you took out the piece of paper from your pocket, delicately unfolding it to read the name underlined thrice — Jeon Jungkook.

Jungkook choked on the chocolate marshmallow, glaring at his friends in half hearted anger, "Why are we eating marshmallows? I thought we were here to-"

"Chill, chill. I know," Taehyung smiled while biting into another spongy treat, "Let's hear about your roommate first."

Jungkook couldn't help the small smile that lingered on his lips when he recalled the conversation he had with you when the stay was finalised. You spoke with such a nonchalant confidence that Jungkook felt undeniably intimidated on the call and only hoped that you couldn't tell.

"Well, 'dunno much," he shrugged, "only spoke on the call. She sounded very chill."

"You sure hope so. Who's gonna keep up with our wannabe playboy if not a chill person?"

Jungkook chuckled at Taehyung's words before noticing the rest of his group approaching, arms full of clinking bottles. As the night witnessed yet another of his raging parties, somewhere in his mind Jungkook couldn't help but drift again and again to the same question – what kind of person were you?

From 28th July, 2023

[saffronimagines]

Pairing: Daryl Dixon x Female!Reader Reader pronouns: she/her

Era: flashbacks, present day is S11.

Words: 1000+ (they will be get bigger)

Warnings:, violence, language, gore, mentions of death. Tattoos, piercings.

A/N: the chapters will be getting bigger so don't worry, this is more of just backstory.

Summary: Daryl remembers you as he tells carol a story.

2010, August 25th

He was panicking, he couldn’t find you anywhere. He’d went back to your house. Your job at the mechanic, You were simply nowhere to be found.

Merle acted like he couldn’t care less, but in fact, he almost missed you. You made Daryl happy, and Merle loved his nephew, Archer. nonetheless when the brothers found the quarry camp. finding you had been thrown out the window. it's a kill-or-be-killed world.

----------

sometime in 2011.

after the governor, the prison seemed safer.

he hadn't told anyone about you and wasn't planning to. but he'd really gravitated to Carol's energy and spent more time with her. sitting in a guard tower with carol...That's when it happened. he let it slip.

talking about mechanics, and how Daryl knew so much about cars. he was tired, he hadn't registered what he said until he said it. "my wife taught me." her face scrunched. almost not believing him, until he showed no signs of joking.

"you're married?" she whispered, full attention on him as he blushed in embarrassment. "i...was'" he didn't believe you were dead, your or Archer.

"wow. I...I didn't see that coming. you've never brought it up before" Carol smiled, thinking about Daryl as a husband. "ya' know now,'" his southern accent lacing through.

"tell me about her"

North Georgia, June 28th, 1987.

the air was hot, the wind making it even worse. and as if by fate...Merle's bike stopped working.

"My fuckin' bike!" Merle's voice bellowed as he pushed the doors to the bar. Daryl followed behind, not sure if he was even allowed into the place, as he was only nineteen.

"wha' happened this time?" Lucas sighed, blowing the smoke out his mouth. Lucas knew the Dixon brothers quite well, practically growing up with them. "engine started actin' weird as soon as we pulled up" the older brother groaned, sitting next to a new man who sat at the bar.

"who tha' fuck is this?" Daryl asked rudely. "calm down Daryl, this is Norm" "no shit, Norm huh?" Merle dry laughed. drinking a beer the bartender had brought him.

no other words were exchanged until" Lucas nudges the new-comers shoulder. a signal to say "earn your place"

"One of my Workers...she could fix your bike." as if he was put on the spot, he offered. "a chick? yea' no way" Merle's refused, placing the bottle on the sticky table.

"She's my best worker" he looked at his watch. "she could be finished in a few hours, you even don't have to pay" his teeth grind each other, he knew you weren't going to like that.

"fine...give the address" Daryl looked at the address Norm had written on the paper.

you were a woman...? and I've lived in that part of the neighborhood?

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

trapped with Beth in the trunk of a car. if anyone would've asked him where he thought he'd be in two years, he definitely wouldn't have said here. cramped with a teenage girl whose father had just died.

Nonetheless, their time together was short-lived when she disappeared. then finding his chosen family again after separating, at the prison.

Terminus was a huge bust. his both, sad and glad you weren't there. if you were there in a different 'state'...he wouldn't know what to do, or what to say.

the next few events played by quickly, finding Beth, losing Beth, and Aaron stumbling across the group. then taking them to Alexandria.

Alexandria was the exact opposite of where you used to live.

it was clean, nice, and suburban.

North Georgia, June 28th, 1987: 2:54am

as Daryl rode in with Merle on their bike, the neighborhood was worse than he'd ever heard before. dirty, buildings coming down, overgrown, and random loud banging noises.

one knock and no one answered. two knocks and they heard moving. when no one answered, a third knock and you finally opened the door. you looked tired, dressed in sweatpants as well as a long t-Shirt, he watched as your hand leaned against the door, covered in small band-aids, some uncovered cuts, and bruises.

once Merle asked what your name was, your hand clenched. "Norm said ya' could fix ma' bike?" Merle Truly didn't think you could do jack. by the looks of you, you were an alone, useless, teenage girl.

"whoopee.." you smiled sarcastically, the fake smile instantly dropping. head nodding to follow inside, Daryl didn't get a long look at your house before he followed you to the garage.

you crouched over on your ankles and pulled up the garage door. "bring your bike around" Merle's quickly jogged out of the open garage to get his bike from out the front, meaning he would be a minute, you grabbed your toolbox from a nearby shelf before you felt him staring.

"do you need something?" your eyes not leaving the toolbox, "Nah.." picking at his fingers in nervousness. it wasn't every day he found a girl like you. "you sure? by the looks of you, you've got questions" he did, he had tons. and honestly, he was a little scared of you.

"I'm sure.." awkward silence filled the air, Daryl Dixon had never been good in silence. you went back to get tools from shelves and from drawers, "you look so uncomfortable. really just ask, it's making me nervous" Daryl took a seat on one of the counters. "where'd ya' learn to fix bikes" you took a seat next to him, thighs a few inches from each other.

"My father taught me" bringing your knees unto your chin. "he's gone though, 'unfortunately'" you air-quote, he didn't mention your Dad again. he knew the topic too well.

"do you know anything about bikes?" he noticed your eyes shimmer from the bad garage light. "Nah. nothin'" you slightly smiled, and tilted your head, handing him a Wrench, perfectly timed as Merle's bike could be heard down the street.

"I'll teach ya'"

now:

day 31 in the commonwealth

Daryl walked down the stairs to his apartment, where he'd be going to start work. watching as Rosita came down from her own place, then exchanging a quick "hey"

"place getting any better?" Daryl smirked. "hell no, i think this place is literally made of paper." she expressed before following with "you sleeping?"

"Nah, no, no." you would always stay up with him until he fell asleep, then you'd fall asleep a few minutes later, to make sure he was actually asleep.

"can't wait till basics are over and we get new apartments, worrying about money again is so weird" rain poured onto the pair was they walked.

"its not forever" he hoped...

@jasontoddorjasongrace @f1uveryys @4ster01ds @rickysgrimes @letsstarsfalling @2181bigbuss @zomerlovesme @aureolinb @kikitje2003 @mandyjpwood @baldeagle21 @justsomecreaturewandering

[theoneprecioustome]

The Journey: Aikoto Chronology

With P3RE on the horizon, I thought it'd be useful to gather the Aikoto moments that happen in The Journey across the various P3-related releases.

The list will cover:

Vanilla P3 (OG)

FES

P3P

Drama CD

Just in case, given that Atlus seems to be taking some inspiration from the movies, I'll also list some of the stuff the movies added

(Spoilers for the entire game below the cut!)

Note: Out of the Drama CD, there are some that are meant to be considered as canonical, official side-stories. These are Daylight, Moonlight, New Moon and Full Moon. I'll mark the rest with a * since I'm not sure whether they're meant to be considered canon or not.

Note 2: Moments that have been confirmed to be in P3R will be marked with a ✅. Meanwhile, moments that have been confirmed not to be in P3R will be crossed out.

July

✤ Fateful Meeting:

OG/FES: Aigis is introduced with an animated cut-scene. Makoto gets a heart over his head when he sees her and is also disappointment when he doesn't get to approach her first.

Movies: Makoto is "into it" for the first time when he sees Aigis, and he's blown away when she turns to face him.

✤ Reunion:

✅ OG/FES/P3P: Aigis goes into the woods and Makoto has to chase her. Aigis hugs him (in OG/FES, she stops hugging him when Ikutsuki gets there, while in P3P she hugs him for way longer).

Movie: Makoto doesn't chase Aigis; there is a shadow attack that night and Aigis comes to save him, leading to the Aikoto hug from the game.

✤ OG/FES: Akihiko and Junpei are shown to be disappointed when Aigis is revealed to be a robot, but not Makoto.

✤ ✅ OG/FES/P3P/Movies: Aigis wakes Makoto up "five minutes earlier" and proposes she be allowed to stay in his room. In the games, Yukari's last dialogues imply Makoto wasn't against the idea (either "I don't care" or "She can stay"; knowing him, likely the first lol).

August

✤ Movie-Only: Aigis tries to protect Makoto during the Justice & Chariot fight. Makoto worries for her and tries to reach her when she overheats.

✤ ✅ (Optional) FES/P3P: You can walk Koromaru with Aigis (the very first Koro walk!) on August, 15th. Aigis keeps her distance.

✤ (Optional) Summer Festival:

OG/FES: When you go alone to the Summer Festival, Makoto runs into Aigis and Mitsuru. He tries to call out to them, but neither of them hear him.

✅ P3P: When you turn everyone down, the game defaults to sending Makoto to the festival with Aigis and Mitsuru. Once there, Makoto and Aigis share some takoyaki and you even have the option to make them hold hands.

Movie: Makoto goes to the festival with Aigis and they play at the stands. Instead of going with Mitsuru, they run into Shinjiro and Ken.

✤ (Optional) FES/P3P: You can go to the Film Festival with Aigis on August, 28th (the game gives you a heads-up about it the day before).

September

✤ Movie-Only: Aigis drops by Makoto's room and the two talk about his motives.

✤ ✅ OG/FES/P3P/Movie: Aigis starts going to school (and gets assigned the seat next to Makoto). She tells the entire class that she wishes to always be by Makoto's side.

✤ Drama CD (Daylight): It features various events and a lot of Aikoto stuff, including Aigis & Makoto going with Junpei to visit Chidori at the hospital, Aigis & Makoto patrolling the city together, Aigis being curious about ice-cream and Makoto promising to buy her some, etc. It also features the introduction of the "Mysterious Girl" that would later become relevant in Arena thanks to Labrys, as well as a direct tie-in with Labrys' wish and Aigis' route in P4A.

Security Camera:

FES/P3P: When Makoto gets sick because of the typhoon, Aigis goes to his room to look after him. Despite confirming he's doing fine, Aigis decides to keep watch over him. In FES, she sits on the ground; in P3P, she sits on the bed by the side of his head.

Drama CD (Character Drama Vol 3*): It shows Aigis' thoughts as she decides to "follow her heart" and muses on how illogical she has become.

✤ Drama CD (Character Drama Vol 5*): While this CD focuses on Akihiko and Shinjiro, there is some slight Aikoto, since Makoto immediately recognizes Aigis' handwriting and is the only one to figure out what she meant by her note.

September-October

✤ Drama CD (P3P Vol 2*): Makoto and Aigis tease Junpei, plus Aikoto + Koromaru go look for Bunkichi when he goes missing. (The screenshot above is unrelated to this.)

November

✤ OG (Cutscene)/FES (Cutscene)/P3P/Movies: Aigis breaks out of Ikutsuki's control as she and Makoto stare at each other (this isn't shown in P3P, so we have Aigis stuttering Makoto's name instead). The movies add Aigis falling due to the effort and Makoto holding her in his arms, as well as Ikutsuki trying to control Aigis a second time and Aigis resisting to not shoot Makoto.

✤ Drama CD (Full Moon): Aigis is paralyzed by her fear of hurting those who matter to her. Pharos reaches out to her, reminding her that she has to fight if she has someone who is truly important to her.

✤ Movie-Only: Aigis reassures Makoto that she will never leave him (a moment based on her S-Link with him). Makoto hugs her close.

✤ Drama CD (Episode Luck*): Ryoji thinks Aigis is glaring at Makoto rather than at him because she fears Makoto likes another girl. Makoto corrects him: Aigis' animosity is very much reserved for Ryoji lol

✤ Movie-Only: In the game, the girls comment on how much better Junpei is doing now that he is friends with Ryoji. In the movies, they give Ryoji's friendship with Junpei to Makoto, so the girls say this comment to Aigis, who starts thinking about what matters more: Makoto's well-being or her mistrust of Ryoji.

✤ Kyoto School Trip:

OG/FES/P3P/Movie: Aigis wants to share a room with Makoto.

Movie-Only: The movies add a hilarious scene where Aigis takes matters into her own hands lol Also, since Ryoji hangs around Makoto during the trip, Aigis makes sure to tag along.

✤ OG/FES/P3P: As everyone leaves to study, Makoto briefly hangs back with Aigis. As he makes it to leave, Aigis tells him that thinking of anything happening to him and of not being able to be by his side again (this dialogue is present in Japanese, but missing from the ENG translation) has made her understand the concept of "loss". She also tells him that while she doesn't know why, he is very special to her and she wishes to protect him and to always be by his side.

December

✤ Moonlight Bridge:

OG/FES/P3P/Movie: Aigis gets her memories back and realizes why she wanted to be by Makoto's side.

OG/FES: Aigis reaches out for Makoto, who kneels down to hold her hand without player input. When Aigis passes out, he touches her head.

Movie-Only: Since Aigis is laying down instead, Makoto holds her in his arms.

✤ Movie-Only: Makoto goes to visit Aigis at the lab.

✤ OG/FES/P3P: Aigis comes back to the dorm and apologizes to him for what she did 10 years ago. All of Makoto's dialogue choices are supportive of her, showing he doesn't hold it against her: “It was the only way”, “You had no choice” and “You did the right thing”.

✤ Movie-Only: The movies merge Aigis' resolution with the Aikoto scene that takes place in January during Career Counseling. The movie's version notably features Makoto asking Aigis to go see the cherry blossoms with him next spring.

January

✤ (Optional) FES/P3P: Last walk with Aigis and Koromaru. This time, Aigis sits by Makoto's side like everyone else.

✤ (Optional) FES/P3P: You can start Aigis' S-Link on January 8th.

✤ Drama CD (Moonlight): The most Aikoto out of the Drama CD. Words don't do it justice, so here's a link!

✤ OG/FES/P3P: Toriumi asks Makoto to call Aigis for Career Counseling. He finds her on the rooftop, and Aigis proceeds to confess that even though Death is gone now, she still wishes to be by his side. This scene is titled "The Promise Between Aigis and the Main Character".

✤ (Optional) FES/P3P: First and last group walk with Koromaru on January 29th! Everyone tries to "make the most of this moment", as Makoto and Aigis hang out together playing with Koromaru.

✤ The Battle for Everyone's Souls

OG/FES (Cutscene): We can see Aigis looking at Makoto and trying to stand up while they’re crushed under gravity.

Movie-Only: As the shadows swarm SEES, Aigis protects Makoto before being overpowered herself. Makoto screams his heart out. (Note: This scene likely inspired the Aikoto Dance at the Persona Concert 2022, where Aigis gets taken by shadows and Makoto falls to his knees in despair).

OG/FES (Cutscene)/P3P/Movie: Aigis cries out “No, don’t go!” as Makoto levitates away from them. In P3P, we're shown Aigis calling out to him is the last thing he hears before his consciousness fades.

Movie-Only: Makoto's Evoker falls from his hold and Aigis grabs it. He turns to her and says his last words to her, "Live."

OG/FES/P3P: Aigis and Shinji are the last voices Makoto hears before he casts the seal. Aigis says that she won't allow the world that gave birth to him to be destroyed.

Movie-Only: Instead of her line from the game, Aigis reminds Makoto of the promise they all made and tells him that he has to come back no matter what.

OG/FES/P3P/Movie: Aigis laments her lack of strength because she couldn't protect the one she cherishes. The English translation of the games omitted the last part.

OG/FES/P3P: Tiny detail, but it’s only after Aigis calls out to Makoto that we get a >everyone is calling out to you and the option to reply. Her reaction is also the first we see.

OG/FES (Cutscene): A cutscene shows us Makoto returning to SEES. In the cutscene, SEES are split into groups and only Aigis is shown on her own. We also see Makoto's smile widening and his eyes trembling as Aigis sheds tears for the first time. P3P has none of this, but Aigis is the first one to notice Makoto coming back to them.

March

✤ OG/FES/P3P: Aigis sadly watches Makoto from afar (March 3rd).

✤ Movie-Only: Aigis watching Makoto happens on March 5th. Seeing her triggers Makoto's memories, and he struggles to make his way to the rooftop. Aigis is waiting for him there. As the two make their way towards each other, Makoto collapses. Aigis catches him in her arms and hugs him close, welcoming him home.

✤ OG/FES/P3P: Aigis comes to find Makoto on Graduation Day. She picks him up in his room and together they go to the rooftop to wait for everyone. As they wait, Aigis thanks Makoto for everything and reaffirms her desire to protect him and to always be by his side. In OG and FES, Makoto wipes her tears away (once again without player-input).

✤ OG/FES (Cutscene): He falls asleep with a smile on his face, laying on her lap.

✤ OG/FES: Memories of You opens with Makoto and closes with Aigis.

[pavlovleowrites]

From @jegulus-microfic prompt August 28th, Injury (963 words; nsfw, explicit sexual content, violence, mention of blood, mcd)

The champions awoke under the stars, aware that they had only one more hour concealed by the precious night sky. They touched each other uncertainly, their skins marked with scars and bruises from the last three days of fighting. Under the pressure of a thumb, the cut on Regulus' thigh reopened, and blood coated James' hand as his mouth swallowed the other man. Pain and pleasure, neither existing without the other.

The exquisite sound that escaped Regulus’ throat was vocal proof they were still alive. James held him in his arms, using the blood on his fingers to caress around the other man’s entrance, feeling the rim tighten against the breach of his index.

Regulus moaned, and James put his hand in his mouth, expecting him to taste himself, but instead, Regulus bit down on his thumb, sharp canines tearing the skin. "I need you, all of you," he whispered, a confession that stoked the fire burning inside James’ chest.

What could he do but comply as he pumped himself a couple of times, their bodies now marred with the dark stains.

Under the stars they were alives and only belonged to each other, marking each other desperately, hoping the stains would work as protection against the duties that awaited them.

As James got deeper and deeper into Regulus body, he couldn’t help but feel a shiver of apprehension run down his spine. He hoped to bury himself deep enough to ignore it.

Soon they breath synched and the sounds of skin against skin got louder as they grabbed and held each other so tightly they left bruises in the shape of their affections.

Soon after they came, blood, sweat and cum mixing between them, Regulus had to leave. With one last kiss and one last look, he left James' tent and crossed the battlefield to his own garnison.

—

Hours later, Regulus realized he had been too confident in expecting James to simply ignore him and run the other way when they encountered each other on the battlefield. But being a god’s champion was their calling, and neither of them could escape the impending fight.

When the battle had begun, the sun had barely peeked through the horizon, the sky covered in hues of pink, orange, and blue. As the day progressed, their soldiers cut and killed through armor and flesh, the clashing of weapons and the smell of copper heavy in the air, the ally had turned as red as the earth.

It was not their war, but they had been chosen nonetheless, their destiny tied to the rising sun and to the whims of beings that played chess with their lives. They had been given golden shields and blessed swords, carved with the story of their patrons wrath. It was a tale as old as time, gods loved and fought and killed, nothing but blood could satiate their need. A Lion that defended its people, a Serpent that always wanted more. A battle of power, neither one of them proving they were stronger than the other.

As the battle cry had been replaced by painful moans and women’s wailing, Regulus and James came face to face. Regulus' brow had been hit, half his face maculated with blood, vision red, he could taste it in his mouth, not all of it his own. James, the ever strong and tall James, protector of the defenseless, righter of wrongs, his armor still shining through the mud and bits of flesh covering it.

He had lost his helmet, brown curls clinging to his sweaty face. He didn’t look any less like the Hero of the Songs.

Regulus knew the fate of the Villain in those, so he threw his shield on the ground, among the clutter of dead bodies and maimed soldiers, lifting his own sword high. The sun was still too high, but he had made his choice. For James, his hero, it was an easy one.

James didn’t run, he didn’t scream, but his eyes held a deep sorrow as their weapons clashed, the sound loud on the battlefield, resonating high against the mountains witnessing them.

Around them everything seemed to come to a halt, the humans and gods alike holding their breath as the lovers met in their last embrace.

Regulus quickly dodged blows, but James' strength was no match as he overpowered the younger man. Regulus gave his all, owing it to James, but as the sun finally set, and the golden man's sword cut through his stomach, he wished he could have given more.

He had failed his god, and James would be celebrated as the Hero that vanquished the Great Serpent.

Only a handful would remember the way the man had turned into a boy again, his knees falling to the ground as he held the body of his opponent, hands covered in his blood whispering in his ear that it was over, you can go my love, I free you, you can go but please, please don’t leave me.

James would kiss Regulus, again and again, his tears moving even the oldest stone around them. No god could hear them with stars shining above them now, but the Earth had its own magic, and for it could not bring the dead back from such a fatal injury, it could still give the young general a place of rest.

And where guts and tears, and declarations of love had been spilled, a tree like no other would grow.

—

Years later, a house would be built around this tree, and the most magnificent fruits would grow from it, but only ever an old hermit, rumored to be a long lost hero of olds, would get to enjoy their sweet but bitter taste, forever a last kiss left on the mouth.

[hotarutranslations]

New Photobook Release 10/21

Evening

Ishida Ayumi 7th Photobook "Profile.7" has been announced!

Its my last photobook to go on sale as Morning Musume

I also, can say that my favorite thing about me, a work featuring my profile is complete💙

Happy, happy💙

It was shot in Taiwan, The atmosphere completely changes by the street, Its an interesting and unique world view, That's what this book became

Through the theme of, blue bird.. And there are also photos with "dance" in mind, Its my favorite😌💙

In commemoration of it being my last photobook,

There is a 2 book version releasing, as a special set🏅

The special edition is really special..

There is a shoot in Miyagi, a precious place, I also had shots from concerts, which I love, Rehearsals are also something I like, Now as well, I'm watching todays rehearsal video and writing a blog, Since I'm watching the rehearsal video while writing the blog, I haven't made any progress in writing🙃🙃 Since rehearsals is time when I'm really able to do research for myself, I like it, there was also a shoot of this, Finally the other day at the ceremonial pitch.. I also had a shot done, somehow at Rakuten Mobile Park in Miyagi

When the ceremonial pitch was decided, It was really a coincidence and fate, with the timing of it..⚾️🩷

I'm really happy..

Also actually, There was one planned on location for Ara Ara Kashiko but, At the beginning there was but, When the typhoon hit Tohoku..🤦🏻‍♀️ The location shoot was postponed once..🤦🏻‍♀️

Therefore as a result it wasn't included but,

I'm writing about this with the meaning of, Just how precious AraKashi is

Although, Its alright as there is plenty to look at! Saying that, I also think that😌💙

There are still things I can write about but,

Until the release on October 21st, I have time so I'll put it out in order🪽

Everyone!!!!

Please look forward, to preordering it!

The special edition preorder is here

Coming out with a photobook,

And also coming out with an album in autumn, the autumn tour is already starting,

There is a ton but..🥺🥺

You'll follow me, right..🥺🥺

TV Tokyo "Premier MelodiX!"

Thank you very much, for watching last nights show!!

Published for the first time, a video of Ishida and Olive meeting for the first time..

lololol

Oda has always had that video lol Its really funny that the video came out lol

Definitely don't miss the TVer!

Thank you very much for the ceremonial pitch, at Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi⚾️

Play▶️List

Debut song 48th Pyoko Pyoko Ultra~

I danced a lot on my own..

🕺

Graduation Announcement Blog🐣🪽

Hello! Station #531 I also talk about my graduation in this video

📺The MusiQuest 2024 They're airing a live digest from that day!

̗̀📣 Over-Air Broadcast September 14th (Sat) 4:00~4:30AM~ ̗̀📣 CS Broadcast September 28th (Sat) 12:00~5:00PM

📺Sendai Broadcast "Ara Ara Kashiko"

I appear once a month as part of the AraKashi Family

The previous shows, and makings, are on OX VIDEO STORE!

📺Hello Pro Dance Every other Thursday at 11:30PM~

Season 12 will start airing, On October 17th (Thurs)🕺

Thank you for following.. Instagram💙🩵

💿 August 14th new single✨ "Nandaka Sentimental na Toki no Uta/saiKIYOU"

🪩"Morning Musume '24 Concert Tour Autumn WE CAN DANCE!"

Its Ishida Ayumi's last tour💙 I'm looking forward to seeing you

🪩"ROCK IN JAPAN FESTIVAL 2024 in HITACHINAKA" September 22nd GRASS STAGE 10:30AM~

→Tickets are on general sale

📚SCawaii!

Releasing September 17th

Ishida and Oda will be published in it We had a shoot~

📻Morning Musume '24 Morning Jogakuin ~Houkago Meeting~

Airs Every Saturday, On Radio Nihon at 12:00AM~

Past Broadcast Episodes Are Available →Program Details

I visited as a guest🪽 "Sayashi Riho and The Time From Now On" presented by Meiji Bulgarian Yogurt

📻I visited as a guest🤍 Harami-chan no Harami Fan Radio♪

Web The Television

see you ayumin <3 https://ameblo.jp/morningmusume-10ki/entry-12867084275.html

[mskoreodyssey]

Revolutionary Girl Utena [Timeline - Pt1]

Attempts to categorize the canon events in the best of my abilities.

1978

November 11th: Mikage turns 17 years old.

Mamiya is born in the same years as Mikage, which is 1960.

1979

January 23rd: Ruka’s birth

April 

April 1st: Souji Mikage meets the Chida siblings

April 30th

Mamiya Chida dies from illness

Mikage burns the Research Building, then commits suicide by going back in there.

Tokiko is 19-20 yrs old in 1979.

1980

April 2nd: Kanae’s birth

1981

June 4th: Touga’s birth

September 25th: Saionji’s birth

1982

December 1st: Juri’s birth

1983

February 2nd: Shiori’s birth

May 25th: Masaomi & Koto left the school when they were caught together by Chairman Ohtori’s wife.

August 

August 23rd: Chigusa receives an invitation to Koto & Masaomi’s wedding.

August 25th

Wedding Day of Masaomi & Koto

Chigusa burns the Old Fencing Hall, then commits suicide by staying inside there.

December 29th: Utena’s birth

1984

March 14th: Wakaba’s birth

March 28th: Yukiko’s birth

1985

May 28th: Miki & Kozue’s birth

August 8th: Nanami’s birth

1988

July 10th: Mitsuru’s birth

1990

May

Touga and Saionji met Utena by finding her in a coffin. Though they weren’t able to convince her to leave the casket on that rainy night. The next day, those two noticed a certain look in the girl’s eyes. Seeing something has changed in Utena that neither of them couldn’t do for her.

Utena’s parent’s died in an accident, leaving her orphaned. On that rainy night, she lost the will to live. Until she subconsciously met Akio/Dios and Anthy. From that fateful encounter, Utena found her strength to live. The next day, Utena attends the funeral with her legal guardian. Her aunt named Yurika, who chose to take her in.

Aunt Yurika stated, “Utena’s parents died when she was six. I was still young myself… and I couldn’t explain it to her.” Meaning that Yurika must have been 21 years old at the time. However, an age requirement on becoming a legal guardian to someone’s child is 18 and above.

1996

January 23rd: Ruka turns 17 years old.

February 2nd: Shiori’s turns 13 years old.

On that year, Shiori fell into a river. Juri dives in and saved her, then places Shiori at the riverside. However, Juri loss the strength to swim towards the surface. Until Ruka swam to Juri in attempts to rescue her. The next day, bad news occurred at Ohtori Private Academy Hospital. Juri wakes up from the hospital bed, finding out that Ruka died saving her. She can hear it from Shiori’s cries, asking why he would that for Juri.

1997

December 29th: Utena turns 14 years old.

1998

This would most likely be assumptions and a bit of headcanon. Unless anyone reading this have the actual manga version of Revolutionary Girl Utena, then you won’t have any idea what I’m talking about.

Prologue

Early June (3 days)

Day 1 (Pg3-33) // Day 2 (Pg34-49) // Day 3 (Pg50-82)

During Summer Break

X

July 29th: Utena’s arrive to Ohtori Private Academy.

[Before] [During] [After]

[subtile-jagden]

Oswald Boelcke - Part 3

Der Meister

The war diary of the squadron reads on August 27th, 1916: “Jagdstaffel 2 meets under the leadership of Captain Boelcke. Officers and enlisted men come from different departments. Existing: 3 officers, 64 non-commissioned officers and enlisted men. - Accommodation: officers live in Bertincourt, enlisted men in barracks. - Airplanes: there aren't any yet. - Activity: setting up the airport.” Boelcke had a lot of work to do in the following weeks to get the unit fully operational. In early September Richthofen and Boehme arrived, as well as Max Müller (a very successful Bavarian pilot, see: https://www.tumblr.com/subtile-jagden/714297390685929472/just-finished-this-book-about-max-ritter-von?source=share). On the 2nd September Boelcke used one of the three so far arrived aeroplanes and shot down his 20th victory. This highly puplished event hit like a bomb; after all, the people hadn't heard from Boelcke for almost two months. As Boelcke was almost the only one with a plane, he flew a lot and shot down five enemies in the first half of September. Finally, on the 17th September some more machines arrived so that the Staffel could fly together for the first time, resulting in victories for Boelcke, Böhme, Richthofen and Reimann. About his new students he writes his parents: “My gentlemen are all very passionate and eager and capable, but I still have to train them to properly work together – in their eargerness to achieve something, they sometimes still are like young dachshunds.”

Boelcke, like most of the pilots, had no personal contempt against his opponents: “We have nothing at all against the individual pilot, we only fight his flying against us.”

Just as they were able to complete their set-up, English bombers and artillery attacked Bertincourt, causing Boelcke to move his Staffel. By then Boelcke was able to up his victory list to 31. The fighting on the Somme weakened significantly, partly because the fighter pilots' excellent performance ensured that enemy aviators were no longer able to see behind German lines. Boelcke enjoyed great popularity with his men. He was strict and demanding but never without reason. “It is difficult to express with what devotion and love we clung to him in our inner circle of comrades. Never before has a comrade been loved by his comrades, a superior by his subordinates, as he has.”

In his last ever letter, Boelcke told his parents about his 35th victory on the 17th October. On the 26th he shot down number 40. On the 28th his life was over.

The End

The stress of the hard fights and worries about the future did not go unnoticed. “My captain became more and more serious and haggard”, reported Boelcke's orderly. On some day he went up seven times and on the ground he had a lot of organisational work to do. He was supposed to go on leave but “I am needed here!”. At seven a.m. first reports of English planes over the lines alerted Boelcke to start with his own men to fight them off. Four times they went up, all that before it was even noon. At around five p.m. they were called upon once more for help.

Oswald Boelcke is undefeated in the air. No enemy brought him down. It was unfortunately one of his own man who collided with him in what was a pure accident. Erwin Böhme, handpicked by Boelcke to join him and a great admirer of him, writes to his fiancé about the tragic event: “Boelcke and I had an Englishman between us when another enemy, being chased by friend Richthofen, cut our way. Boelcke and I, hampered by our wings, didn't see each other for a moment while we were avoiding each other at lightning speed - and that's when it happened. Our planes brushed against each other, just a light touch, but fatal at the high speeds. Fate is usually so cruelly unreasonable in its choice: only one side of the undercarriage was torn away from me, the outermost piece of the left wing was torn away from him. I had to see how he couldn't straighten his machine anymore and how he crashed next to a battery position. I was utterly distraught, but still had hope. But when we got there in the car, the body was already being brought towards us. He died instantly at the moment of impact. Boelcke never wore a crash helmet and didn't buckle up in the Albatros either - otherwise he might have survived the not-too-violent impact.” Manfred von Richthofen also reported on the incident: “I look around and observe how Boelcke is attacking his victim about 200 m next to me. A good friend of his flies by. Both shot - the Englishman was about to fall at any moment. Suddenly, an unnatural movement can be observed in the two airplanes. I had never witnessed a mid-air collision and had imagined it to be much different. It was just a touch. But at the speed that such an airplane has, every light touch is a violent impact.”

Interesting is the fact, that Richthofen doesn´t mention going after an enemy himself, crossing in front of Boelcke and Böhme. Maybe he did not realize that he did, maybe it was not something that the public should know. Richthofens account is in his biography “Der Rote Kampfflieger”, published at the hight of his popularity. To give the impression that he was partially to blame for Boelcke's death would be fatal.

In the end no one was to blame as it was a truly unfortunate accident. But of course Boehme was devastated. “Outwardly, I've got myself under control again to some extent. But in the quiet hours I always remember the horrible moment when I had to see my master and friend fall next to me - the nagging question arises again and again: Why did he, the irreplaceable one, and not I have to be the victim of this blind fate - because neither he nor I was to blame for the disaster?!”. When Boelckes family came to escort his body home, they met with Böhme and a friendship betweem them was formed that lasted until Boehmes own death one year one month and one day after Boelcke´s.

The death of this national hero sent a shockwave through the Empire and the German front lines. Boelcke is no more!

On the 31st October 1916 the funeral ceremony took place in Cambrai. The coffin was laid out in front of the altar of the cathedral. Crown Prince Rupprecht of Bavaria appeared at the head of the generals, and General von Below represented the Kaiser. Manfred von Richthofen carried Boelcke's Ordenskissen (pillow with all his medals).

He was laid to rest in his home town of Dessau.

On the front the fight rages on. New pilots filled the gaps of the fallen. Inspired by Boelcke's spirit, best expressed by General Thomsen: "I want to be a Boelcke!"

Sources:

Boelcke, by Prof. Dr. Johannes Werner (1932)

Der Rote Kampfflieger, by Manfred von Richthofen (1917)

Briefe eines deutschen Kampffliegers an ein junges Mädchen, by Prof. Dr. Johannes Werner (1930)

Immelmann, der Adler von Lille, by Franz Immelmann (1934)

[swanfireprincessmydear]

Swanfire Month Day 8 | Tallahassee AU or Enchanted Forest AU

Sometimes good things actually do happen to good people.

August was never able to find Emma, or Neal, and so neither of them ever learned that the other was from another land. They moved to Tallahassee as they had planned, and raised their son. Everything seemed normal and fine. They were happy.

But fate has a funny way of catching up on you.

On Emma’s 28th Birthday, she is given an anonymous tip that her parents are in a small town in Maine. Storybrooke.

[links-hella-fine-booty]

2023

Holy shit. This year had to have been the most eventful year of my life and that's saying something.

Beginning of last year, Gavin and I were struggling to do whatever we could to find an apartment. Well, come February, we did. We finally were able to cross the biggest gap in our lives and relationship. I packed my stuff and suddenly, I was with him and living in Texas. My 28th birthday came and I got to spend it with friends. I haven't spent a birthday with a friend in so long. It felt wonderful to have people that wanted to be around me.

April came around and another one of my biggest dreams came true. I finally got my first puppy. Bliz has been a name for a dog I wanted for years and now he's my precious baby. I love my dog so much. He might be a little special needs as I've come to discover, but he's perfect and I know that fate brought my Bliz and I together. AND along with April, I got my beautiful, gorgeous, handsome, cunty, stunning, sweet, passionate, loving new pookie Niran. He literally brought me back to Overewatch single handedly and I love him. Fell for that man harder than any other fictional man ever. I want him carnally fr.

May was lovely and just as exciting. Not only did we once again have a wonderful time with friends for Gavin's birthday, but we got a new baby as well. Toast and Bliz actually got along and she was our kitten. Sly little thing she is, but I can't imagine life without her. Never was a cat person but I suppose she really changed me. I love my fatass little cat.

June was, hard. While being so excited to see Mexico for the first time ever in the following month, my dad ended up in the hospital. Just after Father's day. Quite possibly the scariest thing my family has ever had to go through. Weeks of nothing but worry and stress. He pulled through, but he will never be how he used to be. He's mostly in a wheelchair and can no longer walk on his own. I miss my father. I miss him so much. I took for granted all the times we went to the grocery store and taking him to the bank. I know everyone says it, but do not take time for granted. It really can be gone in an instant. I am happy to say my dad is okay. Him making it to his 81st birthday and to the New Year, means everything. I want nothing but comfort for him this upcoming year, and for my mom and sister to take it easy too. We all love him.

July, was wonderful. I got to go to Mexico with Gavin's family. They showed me nothing but kindness and caring the whole time. Mexico was beautiful and I want to go back. I have to get my passport updated but hey I will. After Mexico, it was back home to NJ. Being back home felt so right and I wish Gavin and I could move over there, but it's not in the cards right now. But! I enjoyed a great time seeing my dad and going to the Jersey Shore. Time with my mom, sister, and dad pretty much recharged me. Stayed about two weeks longer than intended but I know in the long run I needed that.

August. God. August. It started out great. We were back home and Gavin was ready for his appointment to start T. Both of us were so happy that he could finally start his journey. We went, he got it, life felt so good. However, it seemed like Gavin and I couldn't catch a break and life decided, "yeah, throw them in a car accident." Gavin's car was towed and we were in horrible pain. My stomach was so bruised I couldn't bend down and Gavin could barely use his hands. A whole week of stress and anxiety over what to do now that we didn't have a car. Thankfully his parents were once again, so kind, caring, and understanding that we were able to get a new car. His name is Ramram and he's kept us safe which is all we could ask for.

September wasn't so bad other than learning two of our friends, weren't the people we thought they were. October was pretty okay which was nice. Throughout these months it was mostly financial stress which we still have but the hell am I supposed to do about it at this point.

November. I usually hate November. Halloween is gone and done and I don't really care too much about Thanksgiving. But I suppose Gavin changed that. After weeks of severe depression and anxiety, crying every day, it all stopped. He proposed. He had gotten me the most beautiful ring. Goth and elegant. With one question, everything melted away and I haven't cried a sorrow tear since.

Now that it's December, I realize just how many things happened and how things still are happening. My family and family's friends accept my engagement and are excited for me. They are happy. I'm planning a wedding. I made it far enough in life that I am getting married. I'm getting married next October. I'm still tearing up as I write this because 19 year old Lauren didn't think she'd make it to 20, let alone 27. I'm getting married. It's incredible. Other than being in a dream like state from that, of course I had to get a whole ass addiction to Baulder's Gate 3. Perhaps it's not the traditional dnd experience but I can't say I don't love it. I now get to have some fictional men be here without me needing them. I get to have Astarion and Halsin and Gale at my happiest. That's, so different than all of the ones before them, Niran included. It almost doesn't feel real.

2023 was something else. 2024 is going to be wonderful. I am soon going back to NJ to plan where to have our wedding. Gavin and I will have our first anniversary and Valentine's day together too! I get to go back to NJ a few more times for wedding plans and vacation and then the wedding. My biggest hope for 2024, is that Gavin and I can start a process to start my dream.

I want to be a mother. I wanted to be a mother since as long as I can remember. If I can just start this journey into being a mother, everything up until that point will have been worth it. Every moment of stress, pain, tears, and more. I hope sometime next year I can make a post saying we've succeeded. I know the process won't be easy, but it will be worth it.

Happy New Year everyone. I made it through this year. I can make it through next year, and you can too.

[endlessly-cursed]

Primrose’s Legacy, Book One, Chapter Three: The First of September

A/N: After months without writing a word, and with the new format, here’s a new chapter of PGL! 

OCs featured: Henry of Alderly, Malcolm Stolberg-Burke & Estelle Stolberg-Burke ( @gaygryffindorgal ) William Devlin very briefly ( @unfortunate-arrow ) Gwen Archeron ( @thatravenpuffwitch ) 

OCs mentioned: Lillian Brokenshire ( @cursebreakerfarrier​) Ophelia Burke ( @the-al-chemist​ ) Simon Battersea ( @unfortunate-arrow​ ) 

Warnings: Prejudice of the time towards magic 

Word Count: 2.4k 

Taglist: @gaygryffindorgal​ @nicos-oc-hell​ @slytherindisaster​ @camillejeaneshphm​ @catohphm​ @hphmmatthewluther​ @thatravenpuffwitch​ let me know if you want me to add you or remove you from it! 

20th of July, 1892

Primrose was laughing, riding her horse, Lionheart, as her jet black hair sprawled wildly free, her curls giving in to the wind. She had escaped yet another boring class, and was happy to learn how to be a fast rider. She had a feeling that it’d be a very valuable asset.

She came off her horse to one of the fields that her mother owned, and strutted happily, munching over berries and apples, clueless of her future for a few more minutes. Looking around, she took off her shoes and stockings and dipped her feet into the fresh grass, looking up and smiling, the wind stroking her face. She minded little of it, for it was a hot wind against her pale skin. She was a twenty-five-minute ride away from home, yet it felt like a whole day.

How little would she realise that she’d rarely have time to ride away every time she wished. She was to be viscountess, and her training of now four years had been thorough. She loved it at some extent, and was allowed to learn fencing alongside Henry, whom she loved dearly. She was also clueless that it wouldn’t be him whom she’d be betrothed, as her mother had promised when she thought her asleep. It wasn’t her fate to be a duchess, no, but something greater. And so, the sun set, as well as her fate, as her dear and most loyal servant, Miss Gwyn, came running with all her speed. She was red and sweating, panting and placing her calloused hands on her knees “Viscountess… Victoria… letter… urgent… must…come…now.”

Primrose was quick to gather her small water flask and handed it to Beatrice, who smiled and drank almost all of it, coughing at the speed in which she drank it “Your lady mother. She says… that you got a letter and it says that only you can read it.”

Primrose nodded, fully aware of what that meant. It was either revealing her future posh school, or her choice of groom. She quickly rode Lionheart and Beatrice with her, and rode as fast as she could, for she was still very much an amateur. As she dismounted, she could spot Henry’s horse, Bucephalus, and frowned. But her mother took priority.

She was quick to rush to her office. She was wearing a mauve dress, her hair up and her gaze cold, her eyes on her two icicles who mellowed at the sight of her still very much innocent daughter. Victoria sat down on the ottoman and invited her daughter to do the same.

“My sweet girl, you are no longer a baby, and I thought I had accepted it… until this letter came.”

“Is it… a letter confirming my betrothal to Henry, mother? His horse is here…”

Victoria frowned, and was quick to tell the servant to attend His Highness as she talked to her daughter.

“No, I haven’t heard from Duchess Louise yet, but trust that I will. No. You remember my school, yes?”

“Yes. It was a secret place that I’d know about soon. Why?”

Victoria then handed her the fateful letter.

Dear Lady Gray,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Students will be required to report to the Chamber of Reception upon arrival. Please find an enclosed list of all necessary books and equipment. Ter5m begins on September 1st, 1892. We await your owl by no later than August 28th. To avoid detention by Muggles, please use the entrance located at King’s Cross Station Downtown London, on platform 9 %34. We look forward having you at our school.

Yours sincerely,

Phineas Black, Headmaster.

Primrose stood in silence as she held the parchment for what felt like a thousand years. Witchcraft? Chambers of Reception? And owl before August 28th? Platform 9 34? Muggles?!

“I... I do not understand. You’re a witch!”

Victoria frowned “I believe I told you.”

“I thought it was a tale to make me fall asleep and foul gossip!” She cried “Am I a witch as well?”

“According to that letter, you are. Do not worry, my sweet flower, they no longer burn or hang them.”

Primrose was speechless. She got up and ran to her father’s own study, and, with letter in hand, thrust the door open… to find her father and a confused Henry there.

“Is it true, father? Am I? A witch?”

Henry looked back at her and his eyes shone with hope “You got that odd letter too, Prim?”

Primrose’s eyes darted towards her father. He nodded and beckoned to come here “Come, my love. You two need to hear it.” He stood in silence before he admitted “I am a wizard as well. I was born into them, actually.”

“You what?!” They both said at the same time.

“It’s true. All the tales we told of you of Hogwarts, magic, monsters, wands and all… it’s real, and they’re claiming you now.”

“Why me? No one in my family has ever been a wizard!” Henry cried.

“Because magic chose you, my boy. Some inherit it, and some are chosen by a force bigger than anything else.”

Primrose bit her lip “About riding brooms… wouldn’t that… fuel the negative propaganda against it?”

Vincent smiled “When did you become wise enough to learn that big word, my sweet flower?” He cleared his throat “Yes, you shall ride brooms, learn to use cauldrons, but worry not, most of the things said like that we eat children and torment the regular people, known as Muggles in that world, is just nonsense by the Roman Catholic Church. There were some cruel wizards and witches, but not to that extent.”

“Not especially encouraging…”

Vincent looked at Henry with a teasing gleam “And we have known kings to behead their own wives and yet, many princesses were encouraged to marry them.”

Primrose looked apologetically at her friend “He has a point there.”

“My point is, I know that it is scary for both of you, but you will be alright, because we’ll be there for you along the way. I have received word from your father to take care of this matter myself, dear boy. Until you graduate, you are under my protection.”

Henry thanked him and he smiled “My family is rather famous. Especially on my mother’s side. They’re wealthy purebloods, called the Fawleys, which makes me a pureblood myself. Once you’ve settled with this matter, come to me. I shall be happy to provide information about our ancestors.”

He kissed Primrose’s head and ruffled Henry’s golden hair. Then, he called for his own servant, who had loyally served him since he was a boy to prepare the children’s things for Hogwarts and spare no expense on either of them. Henry and Primrose looked at one another. Would they go as bride and groom? Only time would tell…

Three weeks later

“I can’t believe we’re getting our own owls to carry messages!” Primrose smiled. They were in what they called Diagon Alley, buying their own supplies. Henry and Primrose marvelled at everything, though they could see some sneers from people, but paid no mind.

“Look! There they are!” Henry pointed.

“Race you there!” Primrose giggled before darting off. They both laughed before arriving at the shop, where they were greeted by a kind face. “How can I be of help, dear?”

“We would like our own owls!” Henry demanded.

“Please,” Primrose mellowed it, nudging Henry. She gave the owner her puppy eyes, which nobody has yet resisted. Vincent had appeared alongside Victoria, who examined something Primrose couldn’t see.

Primrose saw a barn owl, with brown feathers and a kind face, and looked at her father, who was yet to deny her something from the alley. Henry chose a white owl, and both baptised them. Primrose called her Ravenna. The shopkeeper smiled “One of the founders of the school was named Rowena, and founded the House of Ravenclaw. Your mother was sorted there, you know.”

“Then a Ravenclaw I shall be as well!”

“Or a Slytherin, like myself.” Vincent taunted.

Happy, and with their own supplies and fishing chocolate frogs, which fascinated Primrose, both crossed the path back to London, where their respective carriages awaited them.

They only had to wait until it was time to travel to King’s Cross. Primrose could hardly wait.

1st of September, 1892

Primrose was styled in a simple, yet comfortable sitting dress with no corset, for she was still young for it, and a stylish hat. She and Henry would meet at the station. She was nervous to say the least. She had her wand, of Acacia wood, which effect when elected had lightened the whole room and a blue light surrounded her figure.

She took a deep breath and went into the carriage. At King’s Cross, Henry and a trusted servant were there, and they both greeted one another. As they walked, they ran into Lord Stolberg-Burke, who chatted animatedly with his sister. He spotted the rather lost lady and prince and quickly greeted them. He had become taller since she had last seen him, and could tell he was soon to become a man. With a bow to his sister, the Lady Estelle, she asked him “I take you’re attending our same school?”

“It is my third year, actually.”

“And you never told us?”

Malcolm shrugged “The subject never came.”

“It does now, though. We’d be thankful if you told us what to expect.”

Malcolm nodded “Of course. I actually have two left seats on the train. Feel free to join.”

“But the arrangements—,”

Vincent smiled at Earl Stolberg “I am sure Earl Alexander and I can fix that, right, my good friend?”

Alexander shrugged “I won’t refuse a fellow friend in need of aid, certainly.”

Victoria nodded thank you as she continued talking to Countess Celestia. As they reached the point of meeting, Primrose and Henry stared blankly at it. They looked at Malcolm, who shared a knowing stare with his sister “Estelle, do us the honour.”

Estelle smirked and ran towards it, being swallowed by that wall! Henry stared in bewilderment and Primrose nearly screamed, her eyes and mouth in big O’s. Malcolm seemed amused “Ladies first.”

“But what if I fall?”

“The cart is heavy enough to hold you, trust me.”

I must not be afraid, she thought, I am a Somerset, and Somersets fear no one save God and the king.

With her head high, she gripped the cart and started running, coming close to the walls. She closed her eyes and… felt like she was being swallowed by a godly force, and then, as soon as it was over, she reappeared on another station that looked like King’s Cross, but wasn’t quite King’s Cross. An enormous red and black train stood out, and many students of all ages were there, saying goodbye to their parents. Estelle poked her and smiled “It wasn’t so bad, now, was it?”

“It was… interesting.”

She chuckled before her brother, Henry and Primrose’s parents appeared. She quickly hugged her mother, and she kissed her head. She kissed Henry’s as well and lifted his chin “Head held high, my darlings, and don’t let them see you’re afraid. You can’t be afraid or weak here. They eat them for breakfast, so…be strong every day, alright?”

They both nodded, and Vincent exchanged some words with the earl, who told Mal to have an eye on these two. Primrose took Henry’s hand and the group came into the train. Many huffed that they had the privilege to sit with the elders. It seemed that by no means first years could be there. Primrose protested, but was sent instead with her actual fiancé, Mr. Devlin. He greeted her and Henry, and the three sat there awkwardly.

“That is, in my defence, I couldn’t have told that you’d be there.”

Primrose nodded “I understand.”

William kept on sketching, and Henry gave her a look she could not decipher. She leaned her head against the window and sighed.

As they arrived, Primrose took a good look at the castle. It was gigantic and majestic, taller than many, and full with something she started to become acquainted with: magic. With her head high, she embarked on the small boat, shared with Henry and William. Malcolm was gone, but Estelle was in a nearby one. They smiled encouragingly to one another. This was her first year as well.

As she arrived at the castle, the man before them explained to them how things would work “Before we come in there, you must be sorted into your houses. There are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Your house will be like your home for the next months, and everything you do will affect the house as a whole. House points will be given and removed, so beware of what you do. Shall we?”

The Great Hall was built in a medieval setting, and it was full of students eating and chatting animatedly. Primrose observed Malcolm chatting with a fellow student of the red house, Gryffindor, she supposed. As they started naming the students…

“…Archeron, Gwendolyn! Ravenclaw!”

“…Alderly, Henry! Hufflepuff!”

“…Brokenshire, Lillian! Hufflepuff!”

“…Burke, Ophelia! Slytherin!”

“…Battersea, Simon! Hufflepuff!”

“…Devlin, William! Ravenclaw!”

Soon, it was Primrose’s turn. With her head held high, she marched towards the seat and the talking hat, known as the Sorting Hat. She closed her eyes and allowed the hat to do the job “Ah, what do we see here! Victoria Somerset’s offspring! You are the spitting image of her as well. Hmm, I see several loses, blood has been spilled for you to have your position… I sense a certain sense of duty and wisdom, as well as individuality and determination… very well… let it be… RAVENCLAW!”

Primrose opened her eyes. She was in the same house her mother had been… as well as her fiancé’s. She had hoped to have some distance, or to be sorted into Hufflepuff with her friends…

As she took a seat beside William, a welcoming voice greeted her. It had dark hair and blue eyes, and a kind smile “Hello! My name is Gwendolyn, but you can call me Gwen. Lady Gray, is it?”

“Yes, but I see no need to call me ‘lady’. I am Primrose, Prim to friends.”

They shook hands and Gwen “Very well, Prim. Are you looking forward Hogwarts?”

She looked around, and saw a veiled woman be sorted.

“…Sultana Nilufer… Hufflepuff!”

An Ottoman sultana? This was going to be certainly an interesting year to say the least.

[wastelandersjournal]

August 28th. 2007

I'm lost

Was the first thought that popped into my mind as I stepped out of my car, eyes gliding across the horizon. I stood by, shielding my eyes from the scorching sun. The last few days have been long and unreasonably hot, nights never sticking around long enough for the sand to cool down. (The only pro of this unreasonable day/night cycle were the deep baked lizards I stumbled upon from time to time. Crunchy, crispy lizards.)

I took out my map out of the car and spreaded it out on the hood to take a better look. I was meant to go south, I wanted to see if there's anything left of what used to be a hauntingly beautiful forest reservation. When I was a kid, when we still had reasons to, we would visit our distant family who lived in the inclosed colony deep in the forest. Back then, we needed special permits to be allowed to even step in, let alone stay for few days. My cousin and I used to sneak off at night, mainly during celebrations during which, all attendees seemed to be in transed or possessed by whatever being that given celebration was meant to please.

We would run long and far, over bridges and creeks into an old, overgrown stone square and climb into one of the ancient trees and listen, listen closely to what the trees whispered into our ears. And whisper they did. Swispered so loud it drowned out any other noise we could hear. The saste of iron filling our mouths, always all so similar but never tasting like ours.I never understood their ancient tongue, it passed through my ears, making me dizzy and causing me to overthink. She on the other hand. She understood every single world as Is if was spoon fed to her. After we left, or well, after she dragged me to my feet, supporting me as we walked, she tried to explain if all to me with upmost excitement, but I didn't understand. I didn't want to understand. The trees would come to us at night, in our time of slumber, whispering. I didn't sleep much during those nights.

The last time I visited, nothing seemed to be out of the ordinary. A celebration of some made up god the colony believed in, sacrifices consisting of vegetables and animals were made and attendees fell into a deep transe once more. My cousin and i snuck off to listen to the ancient trees, skerchbooks and pens in hand, determined to write down that the forest said to us. The deeper we went, the more wary I grew of our situation, but I dared not to raise any objection out of fear. I feared what would the trees do to me. The closer I edged to the square, the more I understood the words, their twisted tongue. We were mean to become tools, a mere toy in the forests long awaited game. They thought they had us both, that I heard and understood their words. And understand I did. I stood and listened to the trees hiss and squeal at my weak will and soul, at how unfit I am to serve my role, unlike my cousin, who only lacked one last thing. Blood on her hands.

I was meant to be the first sacrifice.

Fear gripped at my throat as I slowly started backing up, never setting foot at the stone square. My cousin, far infront of me turned to face me, a smile beaming from her pale face, asking me if I was coming. At that moment I turned and ran as fast as my feet could carry me. I could feel her, she was behind me, I was out of reach, she wouldn't quit attempting to pull me back, to the square. I prayed to all the gods I never believed in, at some point I must've prayed to the devil himself, begging him to take me to hell for I would feel safer down there than up here, in the forest.

My feet felt heavier with every step with which I came closer to the unclear opening infront of me. My mind came up with all kinds of terrible scenarios of my incoming fate. The opening would disappear before my eyes, it would go further the closer I got, the trees themselves would catch me and drag me back, stab a stake though my heart and feast upon my dying body as my soul slowly left. I was oh so convinced something bad would happen to me, convinced enough that when I finally ran out of the forest, I did not believe it. I did not believe I was safe, not even when I hid under the blankets, not even when I awoke in my parents arms, both sound asleep.

I stayed awake for hours after that, thinking back at the events of the evening. I'm ashamed to admit that in my state of shock, I was more concerned for the sketchbook i dropped than about the wellbeing of my cousin. She did not come to mind until the next morning. My patents packed up our belongings before the ritual, so we could leave early, with the sunrise. My tired mind wasn't working as it was supposed to, I wasn't thinking straight. All I wanted to do was to go home and forget about the night. As my parents were saying their goodbyes, my cousin came out from their house to say goodbye to me. She did not say a word as she pulled me into a hug. Her hands were cold to touch, unlike the night before. Back then, I payed it no mind. I patted her back, muttered a goodbye and climbed Into the back of our car, promptly falling asleep.

Thinking back now, recalling that faithful day. She was nothing like I remembered her. She was paler, her hair whiter and her eyes shined with secrets unknown to a mortal soul.

And yet, I payed it no mind. I was tired, drained even and I wanted to go home. Our parents stayed a little while longer, chatting and saying their prolonged goodbyes, while my cousin stood infront of me, her eyes piercing through my soul. I rubbed my eyes to get a better look, to rub away the strain her gaze caused me.

I dared not to look into her eyes, I knew she didn't turn away. Not even when I got into the car, not even when we drove away. I felt her gaze hours after we left. As if she still stood there, unmoving, staring.

I soon forgot about the events of that night, forgot that my cousin ever existed. It all seemed like a bad dream I had one night. What did not help was how secretive my parents became. They cut off all family members, close and distant. I was too young to realise it back then, but I should have questioned it more. It was only a decade later when my parents told me the truth.

What happened to the settlement, to it's people was a tragedy. One that would come and pass, but would never be forgotten.

At the time of writing this paragraph, I have changed my mind about my current journey. I turned back on my heel. I will not go back.

For one, from the logical side, I'm running low on supplies. All i have are few bottles of water. Canned food is cooking in the cans, some of it isn't edible anymore, what a waste.

To top it off my motor has been roaring like crazy, exhaust pipes are smoking more than a pile of burning plastic for fuck knows how long. How did I not realise this earlier is beyond me, but I have a theory.

The forest is still there, it wants me back. I won't let it take me.

[robinbuckley1985]

“We Weren’t Each Other’s Forever”

Prompt: “Don’t say it’s over. Please, give us another chance.” “This isn’t our fault. Fate didn’t want us together.” “Have you ever really loved me?” “You can’t change my mind about this. We’re done.” “Don’t try to pin this on me. It was a joint effort.”

Paring: Elyse Wheeler(OC) X Lilian Mayfield-Sinclair(OC)

Summary: When tension rises in the relationship, Elyse attempts to have a civil conversation with Lil. Can they salvage the relationship?

Warnings: Angst angst angst, No happy ending, It’s literally heartbreaking, Spoilers for my Stranger Things Story, My shitty writing

A/N: Inspired by my surviving hawkins story I’ve posted about a few times. I really loved writing this lmao thank you to Skye once again for making me write this. Hope you guys enjoy the lovely little heartbreak.

*********************

August 28th, 2019

One year, one month, eleven days. That’s how long their relationship has lasted. One of them thought it would last forever. The other was about to ruin that. Relationships were not Elyse’s strong suit. She had barely been in one before she had started dating Lil. And sure she was happy, she did love Lil. That much is for sure. But, it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. They had their issues, that much is obvious. Except, Lil didn’t like to acknowledge the issues in their relationship. Therefore, causing more issues.

Overall, it wasn’t the healthiest relationship. But, neither of them wanted to have the conversation about it. It had taken them so long to get here, after years of unknown mutual pinning, they didn’t want to lose it. And what Elyse was most afraid of, losing her best friend. So, she avoided this conversation. Until now. Now, they were both going off to college. On opposite sides of the country. Elyse was going to be in California, Lil was going to be in Massachusetts. That was not going to work. Long distance doesn’t work. So, now it was down to either talk about it in person and hopefully fix things to at least salvage the friendship, or avoid the issue until everything explodes when they’re thousands of miles away from each other and lose their friendship in the process.

So, that’s why the two girls are sitting in Lil’s bedroom, a few suitcases around the room, half the room packed up. She was leaving next week. Elyse had offered to help her pack, because she knew this would be the only chance to really talk. Lil had gotten very good at avoiding talking about serious topics, especially when it came to their relationship. They had both gotten so swept up in the feeling of finally being together, they rushed too fast into it. And now it was crumbling down around them.

As Lil flopped down onto her bed, Elyse sat down on the edge near her. She finally had her chance. She wasn’t wasting it. “We need to talk.” Lil sat up abruptly, getting ready to come up with an excuse. “Don’t. We can’t keep avoiding this. We need to talk.” Elyse said, firmly holding her ground. This had to be done. No matter the outcome, it couldn’t be avoided anymore. “Okay…” Lil said quietly. She placed her hands in her lap, looking down at them. “Look, I think with both of us going to college, and with the problems we’ve had…I think it would be best for us to….not be together anymore.”

Lil’s eyes started watering, her eyes still on her hands. Elyse let out a shaking sigh, a wave of relief washing over her after finally saying the words. “Elyse….don’t say it’s over. Please, give us another chance. Whatever I did wrong, I can fix it. We can fix it together. I….” Elyse gave a look at the girl in front of her. A small ‘oh’ left her lips. Elyse sighed, falling backwards onto the bed. Lil sat there, blinking away tears.

“I-if yo-if you can do this so easily, have you ever really loved me?” Her voice was breaking, holding back sobs. Elyse avoided her eyes, instead looking at the ceiling. “Do-don’t say that. Never say that. I wanted to have this conversation with you because I knew we needed it. Not because I-not because I wanted to hurt you. Don’t ever assume that I don’t love you. Because I do. We just…..” Elyse trailed off, tears rolling down her cheeks. Her eyes landed on the girl, seeing her tear-stained cheeks made her heart break more. She truly hadn’t gone into this trying to hurt her. That was the last thing she wanted.

Lil looked at Elyse, wiping the tears from her own eyes. She swallowed hard, before speaking. “We just what? What? Sure, I get that, I’ve messed up a few times, but what, you’re just perfect and can do no wrong?” She let out a small gasp at the words leaving her mouth. Elyse sat up, her light blue eyes now darkened by the tears filling her eyes. She had a look of such immense pain in her face. “I never said I was perfect. At least I actually took responsibility for what I did wrong. At least I haven’t tried to just ignore everything wrong with our relationship. Hell, this is the exact reason I was hesitant to date you in the first place!”

Lil let out a small gasp at the harshness in Elyse’s words. “But….fine. What did I do wrong that’s such a deal breaker for you?” Elyse sighed, her head collapsing into her hands. She took a deep breath. “For starters, before we were even together, you were jealous of Dan.” Lil scoffs, rolling her eyes. “Oh, please. I was not jealous. I was concerned for you considering how many times you got heartbroken by guys? Forgive me for being worried about another guy hurting you.” Elyse got up, now pacing the room slightly. “Oh, you were worried about me? How kind of you. Except, you made me feel like I wasn’t able to choose anyone over you. Including my own cousin for god’s sake!” Elyse yelled the last bit, her volume catching herself off guard as well as Lil. “You know, for someone who says they love me, you have a really shitty way of showing it. You want to break up just because this wasn’t the perfect little love story you were expecting? God, talk about having unrealistic expectations on life.” She had said slightly under her breath, not really intending for Elyse to hear it. Except, she did hear it. “Don’t try to pin this on me. This was a joint effort, I’m not the sole reason this relationship went downhill.” Lil scoffs, getting up to stand in front of Elyse.

“Don’t look at me like that. Don’t act like we weren't meant to be together. Because I think we were.” Lil says, reaching to grab Elyse’s hands. She pulls her hands away abruptly, pulling them to her sides in tight fists. “This isn’t our fault.” Elyse said, just above a whisper. “Fate didn’t want us together. And it had a really painful way of making that crystal clear.” Lil had more tears fall down her cheeks, her breath hitching in her throat as she shakily exhaled. “You can’t change my mind about this. I know we belong together.” Lil stepped forward, now barely an inch between the two girls. Elyse swallowed shallowly before clearing her throat. “And you can’t change my mind about this. We’re done. Goodbye.” She said, briskly turning to exit the room. As she walked out of the house, down the street to her house, her sobs broke out fully.

Lil collapsed onto the bed, her hands sliding over her face. The sobs were broken and loud. She couldn’t believe this was happening.

Elyse got to her house, making a b-line to her room. She slammed her door shut, making her way to her bed. She got under the covers, holding the blanket close to her chin. Her eyes were burning red from the crying. She was practically choking on her sobs now, barely being able to breathe. It was over.

[cocktailsfairytales]

Second Time Charmed

by Maggie Blake

(Rendezvous at Midlife, #2)

Publication date: August 28th 2024

Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Women’s Fiction

Synopsis:

Sometimes a second chance is all we need.

When Margot Whitley receives devastating news, she keeps it a secret from everyone, determined to maintain her newfound commitment to herself and her career. Having to overcome obstacles as an independent businesswoman, and not wanting to bother anyone else, she feels she can handle it on her own. However, when Margot’s daughter, Callie, and best friend, Susie, sense that something is off and become determined to uncover what Margot is concealing, her secret unravels.

Vaughn Jameson, the love of Margot’s life, currently touring with his rock band, also sensing a change in Margot, decides to head to Los Angeles and check on her between concerts. From the moment Vaughn shows up on that fateful day at Margot’s, a story full of sacrifice, loyalty, and newfound destiny unfolds.

In life, we encounter unexpected twists and turns, surprising opportunities, and occasionally, second chances.

Can also be read as a standalone.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218060894-second-time-charmed

Purchase:

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3X37G7j

AUTHOR BIO:

Maggie Blake, proud owner of a top-rated property management company in the greater Baton Rouge area, immerses herself in the vibrant Louisiana lifestyle. Having been brought up in the charming city of Rochester, New York, she now resides in the heart of Louisiana with her two precious rescue dogs. Maggie has always harbored a burning desire to write a book, a passion that remained unfulfilled until 2016 when at the Atlanta airport she met a man and it sparked her creative side.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, she decided to start the journey of getting her books published. Maggie makes a mean New York-style pizza, enjoys reading, watching movies, and relaxing at home with her spouse—the very man from the airport!

Her debut novel Rendezvous at Midlife is book one in a series, with the additional three books releasing in rapid succession.

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