#& mostly I think I prefer a balsamic!

[hollowtones]

Wait did you move in with Puzz or are you just visiting? (Also if you liked the olive garden salad you should know you can buy their salad dressing in grocery stores it fuuuucks)

I get asked this every time I take time off to visit my partner & it makes me laugh every time. Anyways, I don't need to buy their garbage because Puzz has some copycat recipe they use & I liked that better than what was at the restaurant. LOL

[foodandfolklore]

Tools and Ingredients to keep on hand; Kitchen Witchcraft Elevated Pt. 3

A few more items I'd like to recommend to my kitchen witches. This is going to start getting a little more specific to my own style of cooking and practicing. So if there's anything on this list that makes you go "That's dumb, why would I need that?" then it probably is not for you. Don't go out and get it! But if you think "Huh, that's a good idea" maybe try it out. You can also check out Part 1 and Part 2.

Terracotta Disk Okay let's be real; anyone who's opened brown sugar before knows the struggle of hard sugar. Brown sugar dries out and becomes rock hard. Now, there are lots of solutions that have been presented, but each of them have a new issue. Adding a piece of bread for example. Well now I gotta worry about crumbs, mold and gluten contamination (I'm very mindful of allergies, despite not having any myself). I've also heard of adding a marshmallow to your sugar. I've tried this, but I'm not sure if it's the environment I live in, but it just doesn't work well for me. Plus both feels kind of wasteful. Then I saw a Terracotta disk at the dollarama for about 2 bucks. You soak it in water then drop it in your jar. Boom. Soft brown sugar in a few hours.

Rice Vinegar I know I already suggested vinegar in general, but rice vinegar tends to be more mellow than white vinegar or balsamic vinegar. I like to make a lot of quick pickle stuff like pickled Daikon, Pickled Carrot, or pickled onion. It's also a common ingredient for many Asian sauces and dishes. So if looking up a recipe, it'll often call for Rice Vinegar in some form or fashion. It's also nice to add to plain white rice.

Tortillas Anytime I can find these for cheap in the store, I stock up and throw them in the freezer. Yeah, I can make my own for cheaper, but I've never been 100% happy with how they turn out. They can be too thick, or get a hole, or are not the right size; I dunno. Sometimes I'll make them when in the mood, but mostly I prefer to have them premade. Tortillas, whether made from wheat or corn, have strong solar energies. They also have good protection properties. When you wrap your food in a tortilla, imagine it to be like a protective blanket. It's great for tacos, burritos, fajitas, or just lunch/breakfast wraps in general. But you can also use them non conventionally. When a pizza craving hits, I'll throw some sauce and toppings on a tortilla and bake. Or I may cut the tortilla up into triangles and bake if I need something to go with a hot dip. Monosodium Glutamate Better known as MSG. There has been a lot of misinformation and hate regarding MSG. Starting when Chinese food became popular in North America, but people worried about the quality and cleanliness of food cooked by a foreigner. After all, other countries had different rules about what was considered acceptable when it came to food. So when people were experiencing headaches or stomach aches after eating Chinese take out, they were appalled to find out it was cooked with MSG. MSG was reported to be the cause of these health problems and demonized it. Except.....it was all dog whistling.

I want to be clear: There is NO causation link to MSG having a side effect of pain or stomach problems. What's more likely to have happened is people had an adverse reaction to deep fried food, combined with mass hysteria. MSG is like Salt, Sugar, or Citric Acid. It occurs naturally, and we humans found ways create the product in it's purest form. MSG can be found in all kinds of food like tomatoes, mushrooms, soy, cheese, fish, grapes, and a ton more. Now that doesn't mean you can just eat as much MSG as you want. Like Salt and Sugar, too much over a long period of time can have negative health impacts. But a pinch or two in a dish while cooking is great to help enhance the Umami or savory flavor. MSG also has way less sodium than regular salt. While I don't think it'll replace salt, it can be good to try adding first for flavor if you're trying to reduce your sodium intake.

Cane Sugar There's a lot of different kinds of sugar. Granulated sugar, brown sugar, yellow sugar, icing sugar; most people keep some kind of sugar on hand for baking or sweetening drinks. But I like to keep Cane Sugar on hand as it has a more complex flavor profile. Magically, I find while Cane Sugar sweetens demeanors just like any other sugar, Cane Sugar is able to have people be more...understanding. Instead of finding a new reason to like you or tolerate you, Cane Sugar makes it more likely people sees things your perspective. It makes people more attune to their empathy when engaging with you. If that makes any sense. Oh, and it's my go to for fermented drinks. I actually ran out experimenting with things like ginger beer. Whoops. Scrub Mommy Listen, I hate cleaning. Especially dishes. I chuck as much as I can into the dishwasher, but some things need to be done by hand. So I'm always looking for way to clean them as quickly and easily as possible. But I also don't want to use harsh chemicals or keep buying steel wool that I'll throw away. I saw the Scrub Mommy be used in a lot of videos, so I gave it a try, and holy crap. I bought one for 6 dollars a year ago. I still have it. It doesn't shrink, it doesn't mold; I can toss it in the dishwasher if it needs a clean. And it gets the food off SO easily. I still need to give stuff a soak every once in a while. But most stuff comes right off. Even jars when I'm getting labels off and I got that sticky residue, scrub mommy it with some dish soap. It's gone in like 30 seconds. I still hate doing dishes. But at lest now I can do them without putting every fiber of my being into them.

[atropinenightshade]

Saya for the oc reblog?

[🤡]

"I'm fine! Nothing's wrong. I just tripped."

[👭]

› full name Michaela Saya Mistral

› nickname, if any (optional) not really, she's just called by her middle name more than her first one.

› preferred pronouns she/her

› species (optional) human girl

› universe SGE modern AU

[😰]

› personality traits: reserved, moody, sensitive, independent, cynical, creative, dreamer and a bit scatterbrained, mostly friendly and generous, prone to resentments, and a bit stubborn about things. Competitive. She can form strong bonds with people and feel emotionally down when they break in any way. She rarely opens up to people or trusts them enough.

› mbti, astrological sign, alignment, etc (optional) Capricorn and Ever

› values and beliefs She believes in making others' lives better, not really to heal the world, because that will never happen, but to help others live in it a little happier, etc. She's cynical so rarely expects the best. She thinks bad times outweigh the good and her days are survival. She believes her way of connecting with others deeply is a weakness, especially when she sees how her family acts.

✔ likes: sports (esp golf!), gardening, makeup art, video games, especially gaming with friends, giving speeches, celebrating other birthdays, giving gifts to others, waking up early, the smell of new books, reading, writing, music (Spotify!), her cat, and she has a comfort scarf she always has with her when she sleeps, balsamic vinaigrette and salads

✘ dislikes: many types of noises (especially chewing), disorganization, most forms of spontaneity, driving, math, almond/nutty foods, milk (normal cowmilk), cucumbers and spinach, people forgetting important things about others, apathy and lack of effort

[🐣]

› natural appearance she has wavy light brown hair she keeps tied up, or that her dad makes her straighten if she wants it loose. she has pale skin as well, but sharper features than her sister. She has green eyes that always look sad.

› style choices she's either in uniform, golf wear, a dress and heavy eye makeup, or just at home with a hoodie, pony tail, and sweats. She wears some jewelry, but her sister likes it more. Saya does love bracelets and some chokers. She wears a ring ("engagement").

[🦜]

› a notable memory (you can add multiple memories) piggy breaking, her allergic reaction, getting bullied by other boys, her mom leaving them for days, her getting really mad at rafal when she was five

› an important connection (you can add multiple connections) her and her sister, her and her dad, her and Myra

› an important feeling (you can add multiple feelings) sad, hopeless, envy, frustration, insecure

[👩‍🌾]

♪ https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3biTFXhQIouVVYO50lwLag?si=581dc121f4704332&pt=aff09b24f79c901ceaf096bddda80882

[🎀]

[thecampjuicebox]

DO THE OC QUESTIONS ILY

AHHHH OKAY OKAY ILY

I'll do this for Sif first bc I have severe Sif brainrot rn. I'll get around to Ophyx and my upcoming OC at some point lol

Are there any names they like to be called in bed/names they call their partner? Any names they wouldn’t use/can’t stand? - Sif has an extreme soft spot for pet names like "darling", "my love", "my sweet" and things of that nature. She'd use them for her lover and would enjoy her lover using them for her. There aren't really any names she particularly dislikes.

Are they a “the socks stay on during sex” kind of person? - Absolutely not

Quickies vs Planned sex—thoughts? - Quickies are fun between battles, during baths, cleaning up after dinner. An easy way to expel pent up frustrations. HOWEVER. Planned sex? So much more romantic. Candles and a good meal, setting the mood with music and slow foreplay. So much more preferable.

Are they more of a dom, sub, or switch? If applicable, are they a top, bottom, or vers? - Sif is absolutely a sub/bottom in the bedroom. Inexperienced and shy, definitely one to cover her face and blush in embarrassment when told she's doing a good job, or at the noises she involuntarily makes.

Do they have any really out-of-left-field kinks/fantasies? Maybe even something that they wouldn’t necessarily want to act on but have still thought about? - I wouldn't consider it REALLY out of left field, but Sif constantly fantasizes about the typical princess in a tower scenario. Being rescued and ravaged by a handsome elf. Like I said, she's inexperienced, so I feel she could develop some really fucked up fantasies given the opportunity.

Any place they absolutely would not have sex? - Nope. Anywhere, everywhere, in front of people if the need arises. She may be shy, but she's awfully pent up and horny.

Are they into (consensual) pain during sex? Either giving or receiving - Absolutely into consensual pain. She discovered it by accident at first. Mostly receiving. Sif couldn't purposely hurt a fly if she tried.

How often do they have sex dreams? - At least 3 times a weak, mostly daydreams.

What’s their favorite way to get in the mood? How do they set the mood? - Sif is big into a slow burn. Touches in passing that turn into tight embraces. Soft kisses that turn into tongue fighting, teeth clacking, swollen lips makeout sessions. She's big into touch of any kind. Running fingers up thighs and over breasts, playing with the goosebumps that speckle her or her lover's skin.

Are they down for casual one-night stands? - Not really. She falls too hard, too quickly.

Are they attracted to anyone (specific person or just negative qualities) they really shouldn’t be? - Not entirely. I don't really know how to expand on this because the way she falls in love is so pure, I don't think she has it in her to see red flags haha. She just sees the good in anyone and everyone. She falls for the little things.

Would they be more or less likely to send a risky/risque text to their partner in the middle of a crowded/public area? - Absolutely. She's one hell of a tease.

Morning vs evening sex—do they have a preference? - Either one, honestly. Morning sex is slow and sweet, still blinking the sleep from their eyes, little yawns between moans. Evening sex can be more filthy and grimy.

If they send nudes, are they tasteful or just quick pics? - Tasteful. Even artful, given the time.

Describe their favorite sexual encounter. - Her first sexual encounter is with Karlach, so it's very new and warm and careful. A little bit awkward. It'll always remain her favorite.

Describe their least favorite/most embarassing sexual encounter. - N/A

What’s their go-to safe word? - I have not given this ANY thought but honestly.. It would be something stupid like "Balsam" or something like that ahahaha

Their favorite actions during sex—chin-grabbing, hair-pulling, wrists being pinned, etc. - Sif loves being pinned down and forced to maintain eye contact. Whether it be by her lover holding her chin/jaw, choking her so she can't move, or pinning her wrists above her head.

When they “dress-up” for sex, what’s their go-to outfit? Lingerie, suit, gown, etc.? - Honestly just a silk robe that's just long enough to cover her bottom and is loosely tied so her small perky breasts show just a little. Always green

What do they like seeing their partner in when they “dress-up?” - She'd prefer to just watch them undress from their everyday clothes, or to undress them herself. Nothing special

What scent of candle do they light after sex? - Sandalwood, oak, anything woodsy and fresh

Favorite thing/part about sex—intimacy, role-playing, etc. - Sif's favorite part, by far, is the foreplay. The build up. The dirty talk and wandering lips/hands

Least favorite thing/part about sex—cleanup, setup, etc. - The cleanup, always.

A song they would fuck/get fucked to - "I'll Keep Coming" - Low Roar

Share a sample line of dirty-talk - She isn't too great at dirty talk herself, but more expressing her love for her lover's existence. "Oak Father preserve me, you were sculpted in a perfect image."

[watching-pictures-move]

Movie Review | Raid on Entebbe (Kershner, 1977)

This is one of two TV movies about the Entebbe airport raid rushed into production by US networks after the incident. I haven't seen the other movie, Victory at Entebbe (and the reactions I've read have not been terribly encouraging), but I have seen Operation Thunderbolt, which is probably the best known movie about the event, and the more recent 7 Days in Entebbe, which has mostly escaped my memory outside of its ill advised decision to turn its raid into a montage by cutting constantly to a modern dance troupe. So Operation Thunderbolt will be my main point of comparison.

I think the films' differing strengths can be chalked up to the fact that Raid on Entebbe is a TV movie directed by Irvin Kershner and Operation Thunderbolt is a theatrical release directed by Menahem Golan. Kershner's movie is unsurprisingly sturdier on a dramatic level, mostly because it tries to define the people defined as individuals and to an extent tries to parse out each of their contributions and points of disagreement. It's a largely positive look at the Israeli response to the instigating terrorist incident, but it doesn't feel as nationalistic as Golan's movie, which depicts the response as the machinery of the Israeli state turning entirely in concert.

Kershner also benefits from a star studded cast (meaning this movie probably had a bigger budget than most TV movies). Some of the cast merely fills up the screen without adding much (nearly every frame contains at least one recognizable face; I watched this in part for Charles Bronson but he sadly seems to sleepwalk through his scenes), but there are a number of actors who do make an impression. Peter Finch in his final performance depicts Yitzhak Rabin as an actual person instead of a historical figure, a young James Woods steals his scenes as one of the commandos, Silvia Sidney and Martin Balsam get some of the juicier parts from the hostages (along with Kim Richards AKA the little girl who gets blown away in Assault on Precinct 13). Even the terrorists are somewhat humanized. I liked the contrast between Horst Bucholz and Mariclare Costello (who resembles an angry German Susan Saint James), the former's reluctance and apologetic demeanour versus the latter's harshness and fanaticism. But the most entertaining performance here comes from Yaphet Kotto as Idi Amin, who probably benefits from having the most boisterous person to play (and this is one of those cases where even good imitations can't compare to seeing the real person) but nevertheless brings his usual charisma. As far as depictions of Amin go I think I prefer Joseph Olita in The Rise and Fall of Idi Amin, but that is a much worse movie otherwise and Kotto does a fine job here.

Golan's movie is probably a bit hammy for much of its runtime but snaps into focus for the very good action climax. Kershner's docudrama approach keeps the movie more engaging or at least more sober for most of its runtime, but given the TV movie production, the action scenes hold up better than expected, with the rehearsal scenes playing with a good amount of verve and plenty of tense moments in the climax (bullets flying over the heads of hostages, a pursuit through a hallway that gets resolved with a grenade) and more firepower than expected (some nice explosions as the commandos blow up the Ugandan air force's MiGs). And while some of this is an expectedly dry visual experience, there are some nice surreal touches during Amin's first visit, the psychedelic haze through which his helicopter descends followed by the POV shot of the cameras as they shoot him breathlessly.

Anyway, I'm a sucker for this kind of thing in general but this is stronger than I expected for a TV movie version of this event.

[shadedempsey]

"Sounds good." Shade said finishing up the one in a line of dishes he had set up for them. Having set up a table just outside the kitchen, which was already viewable from the restaurant. One of the draws of the place. He set it to the preferences he was given from Seth by Rhys to make his bullshit amends that he was attempting to make sincere since there was the promise of sex and Shade would do just about anything for sex, obviously. Red was the theme for food and vegetarian. Shade wasn't great at many things, but when it came to food, that was something he was natural at. It went hand in hand with his favorite pastime. Smoking pot. Pot made him hungry and yes he could order things, but found waiting and the whole frozen meals thing didn't cut it. So he found recipes when he was high and started fucking about in the kitchen. Self taught like he was with most things, Shade was a man that was good at failing. He'd just try again and again. Now, half the time he didn't even use recipes, just had ideas or Seth would say something or give him a flavor he wanted. Savory, salty, sweet and Shade would make something with what they had. Granted this wasn't the place he'd expected to open a restaurant or be and yet he still was for reasons he wasn't ready to admit. One stupid one lingering in the doorway.

"You wanna grab that sharkcoochie board?" Shade said butchering the word as he nodded to the red themed vegan charcuterie board that was a starter to the meal he had prepared for them. Wiping his hand on a towel he set to the side he finished plating some balsamic roasted cherry and goat cheese crostini garnished with fresh thyme bringing them to the table after Seth, also part of the starter.

Shade figured casual wasn't going to cut it and he couldn't get away with his normal chef wear so went with black fitted clothing. A long sleeve button up, slacks, and a nice pair of dark brown leather shoes. It wasn't anything too showy. He was sure it wasn't going to be enough to impress the two coming, but the food was going to do that, not him.

Already on the table was an expensive bloodwine for Rhys fuckboy or nonfuckboy whatever it was. Shade made a quick stop to the bar having an idea for a cocktail for Seth mostly but figured he'd make one for himself and Rhys as well. It didn't take him too long to make the drink, it was a bit different from the theme, more fitting for Seth as he put on the garnish and brought it to the younger witch with a grin.

"It's called a black cauldron." He was already chuckling. "Yeah it has tequila in it too." But it was top shelf so Shade didn't really think anything of it as he finished off the remainder of the mix and brought the other two glasses over setting one up for Rhys, while drinking half of the other. "Probably shouldn't tell your bitch tits boss. I mean, less you want me to drink it or you want to drink it." He offered having a feeling tequila or fun in general wasn't Rhys' thing.

@rhysdasior

Double Date From Hell

"They should be here in about a minute," Seth announced, tucking his phone away after checking the latest texted status update from Rhys on their location between Krovs Castle and Cannabites. This was a good idea, or so he tried to continue convincing himself. What could honestly go wrong using promised sex afterwards getting Shade to apologize to Rhys with Roland the narc present? Everything would be fine, he continued to convince himself as he nursed a half-empty vodka soda that was probably more vodka than soda. He leaned against the doorframe between the kitchen and the restaurant, watching Shade work his magic in the kitchen. This was another bad idea in itself that would make his part of their little deal much easier later in the evening. Shade cooking always got Seth's mouth watering and knees weak, dude seemed to know that too. Really made it fucking hard to stay away from the physical aspect Shade wanted after their relationship –– or whatever the cambion apparently decided they were or weren't –– when Seth couldn't move on from the emotional side. "Sure I can't help you with anything?" he asked.

@shadedempsey

[ofmermaidstories]

hiiii my fave 💓 would it be okay for me to ask what kind of reader you see sero with? i genuinely love the way you write anything, especially sero!!! his smile? the things he says??? i’m in love and am so curious who your genius brain sees him with 👁

Hello MY fave. 😭💕 But hmm, lemme think. Sero, eh?

I will argue myself into a grave that canonically, he’s a smartass. A jokester!!! Smooth, lowkey class-clown kinda vibes. He also seems mostly unbothered by the more extreme temperments of his classmates, beyond making snippy lil asides, behind their backs:

(shout out to my King Explosion Bulldozer there, eloquent as ever bb <3)

So with those basics, I could see Sero being good foil for someone who’s a little more anxious!!!

Like: our Reader’s a lil bit of a mousey mouse, keeps to themselves, prefers knowing everything about a situation before subjecting themselves to it and even then needs like, at least three different escape routes available lmao. And then you’d have Sero Hanta who just cruises along like, “yup, ‘sup”.

I think Sero would be good at ferreting out personalities that might otherwise be too shy to approach him!!!! and he’d be especially great at just dropping in, mid-convo, like you’re old friends.

(He snorts at something your coworker says, and before you know it you are shoulder to shoulder with Cellophane, Pro Hero, who winks down at you like you’re in on the joke.

“Nah man,” he says, grinning. “You’re delusional if you think series five was any better—”)

Like with all personality traits, I think being an easy-going quipper can backfire on someone—like, even as adult, I could picture Sero at his worst being kinda… self-absorbed? LOL. I feel like that prolly sounds like it’s coming out of left-field but!!!!! Listen!!!!!!! he’s grown up with some very intense people, some very forceful personalities—he’s known nothing but interesting people!!! so when he’s bored i reckon he can just come of super disinterested/disrespectfully flippant—a trait he’d have to learn how to temper, considering most people aren’t… you know, the greatest heroes of their age lmfaooo. Someone who’s a little more reserved, at first, would be a good reminder for him that people don’t have to be constant performers, that there’s value in sharing quiet moments with someone you like. Which would suit him, I reckon, because away from his mates he seems like he appreciates a more zen environment, like so:

I like imagining his space, as an adult, is just as impeccable. And when you’re finally in his inner circle—idk, I think it’d be good. Sitting with him at a low, balsam wood table, some sweet, woodsy incense burning in the background as you’re both reading.

(Hanta’s got a manga out—a volume Todoroki gave him for his birthday. It looks apocalyptic, something graphic about being the last surviving humans in a world without Quirks. Hanta glances up and catches you looking.

“Get over here,” he says, shuffling over and you move, automatically—setting your book down to curl up with him on his side of the table, his long arms wrapping around you and holding the manga aloft so you can read it, too.)

[mable-stitchpunk]

A Fool’s Endeavor: Sparring

Still at the beginning of their travels, Jester Lure and his companions have stopped at a small village to rest. During the night, Lure cannot sleep, so he goes to find a distraction. Little does he know but he is not to be alone long.

-

  The night was cool and the jester caught the scent of smoke from a nearby bonfire or chimney. He grimaced at the familiar smell and turned to the edge of the inn, stepping into a small alley and into the patch of empty space between the inn and the house behind it. It wasn’t much room, but it was enough for what he was intending on doing. The cover was more than enough to keep him from embarrassing himself and somewhat protect him from less than savory watchers. He looked over the spear, weighed it in his grasp, and lightly began to sway it back and forth. He jabbed it forward into nothing, as though stabbing a snake through the scales. It felt like it would be easy to wield it. Perhaps this would be a better choice than playing around with a short knife with a slippery grip.     Just when he was starting to become familiar with his invisible enemies, he heard the sound of low footsteps from behind. Paranoia kicked in and he braced himself, clutching the spear close to his chest as he waited to see if they were passing by or watching. Another soft footstep. It could’ve been that man that was watching back in the inn. Lure held his breath and pointed the spear ahead, hiding the opposite end between his arm and torso. He took ahold of spear tighter and waited for the footsteps to get closer. Once they did, he shoved the bamboo spear back, striking whoever it was with the blunt side of the weapon. It made contact, but then the intruder grabbed ahold of the spear and yanked at it. Lure spun himself around and used his weight to try and yank the pole out of the man’s grasp.     There was Morrick. Looking tired and as sober as ever, he yanked the spear easily from Lure’s hands. Though the jester wasn’t exactly fighting to keep ahold of it.     “If you had a proper grip, you wouldn’t have lost this,” Morrick spoke as he lifted the spear for emphasis. Lure didn’t know whether to be embarrassed or not, but he had run out of words for a moment or two. “…I expected Balsam to ask me how to use this, but he isn’t interested in fighting. He’s made that clear.” Morrick continued, “but you are, and if that means you need to learn then so be it.”     “I think I know what you’re suggesting, but you’re trying too hard to be vague,” Lure pointed out. Then the amusement returned, “And you scolded me for my wordplay earlier.”     “Do you want to learn?” Morrick asked directly.     “Are you willing to teach a jester?” Lure challenged back. “Even though I’m such an untrustworthy fool, would you risk your time?” He then remembered that it was not the knight who had said those words- mostly because Morrick got a confused look. “You can’t stand me.”     “More the reason to get you in a battle,” Morrick retorted. The corner of his mouth turned upwards in a small smirk. Something was weird about it. Or, more accurately, something about seeing the smirk made the jester feel a lot smaller. “If you agree to it, then I’ll help you. If you won’t, I won’t offer again.”     “Then we have the night!” Lure jovially remarked. He took the spear back and put immediate distance between them. He needed at least a foot of space to regain his bearings. “Teach me, dear knight. Teach this humble fool the art of your trade.” He planted the spear into the dirt and gave a dramatic bow.     “Don’t go too far. We’re starting with something close.” With a few steps, Morrick was back to looming over the jester, who stared upwards at him. “This is the easiest thing I can teach you and probably the most important thing that you can learn. Since you don’t have much formal training and are weaker in the arms, this will be the key to stopping your enemies.” He took the spear right back. Then in a subtle swoop, he caught the pole behind one of Lure’s feet and knocked it out from under him. The jester teetered a moment before regaining balance.     “For someone made for jester work- hopping around and moving too much- something like this doesn’t seem effective, but the bigger they are the harder they fall. If it’s a knight wearing armor and they go down,” Morrick smirked. “They stay down.”     “That’s clever, but it seems a little…”     “It’s basic,” Morrick finished. “You need these basics to keep you afloat. You can’t just wield a spear for one day and think you can handle anything above the simple rules.” His smugness then returned once more. “Now let’s see how many times I can get you on your back.”     Morrick showed him the exact same motion as before, but slower. After that one time he began to make due on his promise; he began attempting to outright knock the jester down. Lure was quick, he learned fast, and he nearly danced his way out of every motion.     Then Morrick’s eyes shifted upwards. “There’s someone watching,” he forewarned. Lure blinked and looked back into the night.     “Probably just that guy eyeing us- Ugh!” This was the first time that Lure hit the ground. He immediately felt his ribs seize as the muscles in his back protested. There was a wave of pain that he wasn’t expecting. After a moment, he choked in air, “That- Very clever.” He coughed and made no attempt to stand. “…If you just broke my ribs, I’m making you carry me back upstairs.”     “That was barely a stumble,” Morrick scrutinized. Not that the jester was surprised; not only had he probably seen worse, but he knew absolutely nothing about the wounds he was recovering from. “More of a reason not to get knocked down. Make sure to focus on your enemy.”     “You were so much more fun earlier,” Lure lamented as he rolled onto his side. “Just need a second.” Sweat caused his already tight costume to cling uncomfortably and everything felt too stuffy. Especially his mask, which he regretted not being able to just take off. Being on the ground only made it all feel so much more uncomfortable.     The knight wandered over to a stack of firewood propped behind the inn and sat himself down. He briefly checked over the tethering on the spear before setting it beside him and staring out. He had brought his new weapon with him as well but saw no reason to unsheathe it. It wasn’t the weapon being taught; it would just leave the lesson confused.     Then Lure pushed himself upwards and stared across the grass at Morrick. The mask seemed to almost glow in the scarce moonlight, giving it a haunting appearance. His voice was direct, “Why don’t you like jesters?”     The knight remarked with a dry chuckle. “You’re taking that fall harder that you are supposed to. You’re supposed to get back up, brush yourself off, and fight back.”     “No, not the training. How dull do you think I am?” Lure corrected. He crossed his arms defiantly, still sitting on the ground. “Let’s do this now so that we don’t have to do it later when Balsam is watching. You clearly have trouble being in a group with a jester.”     “I don’t trust people who I know for only a day and almost manage to get me killed,” Morrick agreed, “but you manage to still stand out on your own… Ever hear of the tale of Mince the Martyr?” Lure perked at this question.     “Of course! Mince the martyr monk leaves the monastery- with a jester, of course- to find a dragon’s tooth so that he may impress the king of the lands. Who hasn’t heard that one?” He tapped his gloved fingers on the ground. “Mince then lets it go to his head, takes all the credit, and becomes the king’s right-hand man. All the while, the jester-.”     “Stabs him in the back with a silver blade,” Morrick broke in. “The jester is jealous and gets his revenge… But you’re not the type for revenge.”     “And that means?” Lure’s voice lost any forced interest. It now was stuck on a low tone, prepared to snap back. “You can’t assume that all jesters would kill for revenge.”     “I don’t,” Morrick clarified. “I could see you as more like Mince. I could see you abandoning us if there was a better path.” Lure’s hands tightened in the grass. This wasn’t what he expected to hear and it was surprisingly upsetting him. He sort of would’ve preferred being compared to the jester in the scenario. He closed his eyes and forced himself to stand.     “That’s really a shame,” Lure answered. He stared Morrick down with coldness that wouldn’t make it through his mask. He spat out, “because I didn’t get these bruises on my body protecting myself.”     With that, he turned and headed off. He couldn’t roll with it, he couldn’t stay in character, and he angrily went to leave.  By time he stepped back inside Balsam and his shared room, he was a mess of frustration. He stormed over to his bed and tore off his mask, throwing it down on the bed. Then he started to go for his cowl-.     The door started to open and anger turned to alarm. Lure let out a choke and fumbled to reach for his mask. He couldn’t tie it on in time, so he was stuck holding it against his face as he turned back towards none other than Morrick. Morrick sent a glance to Balsam’s bed, seeing him still asleep, and crossed to the jester. He handed over the spear and the jester stiffly accepted it. He then expected the knight to leave, but he didn’t. Instead, Morrick quietly spoke.     “I apologize,” he started. “You took care of the princess, you protected her… And my suggestion that you would turn against her or any other is out of line. I think I am above judging someone over their profession…” Morrick took a moment to pause and Lure crossed his arm over his chest. It was supposed to make him look more unwavering, but he doubted it was working. “…But we’ve antagonizing each other since we met and this partnership isn’t going to work unless we can get past this.”     “It’s just part of the act,” Lure defended. He clutched himself a bit tighter. “I’m not actively trying to disrespect you, I’m just doing what I’ve done for years. Eventually you become the mask.” He tapped onto his mask for emphasis to this claim. Then he shuffled around on his feet.     “I know. I can’t afford to take it hard, not when we’ve got more important things to worry about.” Tiredness passed Morrick’s face and he suddenly looked more human than knight. It was a baffling transformation and more potent than his confession at the campfire. “We need to pull together for the sake of the journey and the sake of the princess.”     “If we don’t kill each other first,” Lure muttered softly. Yet while he said this, he couldn’t help but be in a state of shock. Nobody ever apologized, let alone acknowledged that something they suggested upset him. Especially considering that it was a nobleman currently admitting that he was at fault, when in actuality it was them both. “But… You’re right. Maybe I have been antagonizing you a little too much. Balsam seemed to think that…” He let his voice trail off. Before Morrick could add in, Lure continued. “I apologize as well and I agree that we need to try and work together. This… General bitterness- whatever this is, we’ll have to work around it.”     “I agree.”     “As do I.”     “And I would be honored to teach you. You’re willing to learn from a knight who failed in his golden hour; that is much more respect than I have shown you,” Morrick offered.     “And I would be honored to learn,” Lure responded. “To even get the offer is more than most would give.”     Unfortunately, this led to a long period of uncomfortable silence. With Lure still holding his mask and Morrick looking towards Balsam, neither seemed like they knew how to end this conversation. Then the knight took charge by turning and heading to the door to return to his room. The jester set the spear aside and followed him to the door and considered how he would end this.     “One more thing…” Lure quietly alerted as Morrick stepped out into the corridor. “You’re much more fun when ale’s involved,” he playfully quipped. He awaited a response, wanting to see if everything was really back to being alright.     “Maybe,” the knight agreed. Then a small smile came back with a slight smugness added. “At least I can handle it.” A joke at the jester’s expense, but certainly not malicious. Instead of offense, Lure felt relieved.     “That stuff tasted like lamp oil and you know it,” Lure denied right back. “But if you ever get anything worth a damn, let me know. Preferably something that had to be aged.”     “I don’t think you’re ready for something that strong. Might put you on your back,” Morrick pointed out, “and I can do that without wine.”     “I don’t exactly like the way this conversation is turning,” Lure pointed out with a small chortle. “So, I bid you good night, my good knight.” Then he shut the door. It was over and maybe this time the recovery would stick.     His pulse started to quicken in giddiness. A knight- of noble blood- had spoken to him as an equal, even after treating him like something much lesser. There was a funny anecdote here, but it was too late and he was too tired to work it out.

-

This is the turning point in Lure and Morrick’s relationship, for after this moment the two work to become civil and the animosity wanes. Though they began travelling together before this, this truly is the moment where they become companions.  And the beginning of the temptations that come with it.

- - -

A Fool’s Endeavor: https://www.amazon.com/Fools-Endeavor-Janetje-Amabilis/dp/1719844909

[gods-and-pawns]

All flower asks for Cimmerian.

Cimmerian:

O-oh jeez, that’s...a lot of questions, huh? Well, better let’s get to it then.

Alisons: Sexuality?

I’m polysexual.

Amaranth: Pronouns/Gender?

Trans man. He/him pronouns, please.

Amaryllis: Birthday?

December 1st. I’m a winter baby.

Anemone: Favorite flower?

Uhm, sunflowers, probably.

Angelonia: Favorite t.v. show?

If I have to be honest, I don’t really...watch TV all that often. But uh, anything they air on Animal Planet, to be honest. Do you remember that old TV show about the life of meerkats? Fucking loved that shit.

Arum-Lily: What’s the farthest you’d go for a stranger?

That...really depends. I wouldn’t go too far, after all, I don’t know this person, but basic respect and kindness are always a given. I’m not a hero either, I wouldn’t risk my life for them. So, I’d say most of the time, just small favours.

Aster: What’s one of your favorite quotes?

Literally fucking anything that leaves Vincent’s mouth once he gets a little tipsy, this man lacks filter when drunk and it’s fucking great. I know you probably expected some quote with deep meaning, since I have a major in English, but I am very sorry to disappoint.

Aubrieta: Favorite drink?

Pain drink is going to be Whiskey, but anything a little bit fancier then it’s Pina Colada. I like sweet things.

Baby’s Breath: Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

Yes, absolutely, zero hesitation.

Balsam Fir: Have you ever been in love?

Hm...unfortunately...

Baneberries: Favorite song?

........Two Trucks by Lemon demon. Don’t judge me, it’s a fucking great song.

Basket of Gold: Describe your family.

Hm, well, they were great, really. Very caring and loving...Yeah, this question is making me feel sad.

Beebalm: Do you have a best friend? Who is it?

Uhhh...I’m gonna say it’s either North, Tiff, Han or Bright. I’d say Foster too, but...I don’t know, we kind of had a falling out because of our work. It’s hard to meet up.

Begonia: Favorite color?

...I’ll give you one guess.

Bellflower: Favorite animal?

Toads, love these fat boys.

Bergenia: Are you a morning or night person?

Definitely morning. Not that I like waking up early, but I definitely function better in the mornings.

Black-Eyed Susan: If you could be any animal for a day, what would it be?

A hognose snake, they have very cute noses.

Bloodroots: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A teacher, of all things. Mostly because I thought teachers got free summer too. Then I went to high school, saw what little shits my peers were, and immediately changed my decision.

Bluemink: What are your thoughts on children?

I love kids! I always wanted to be a father. Unfortunately, with being nearly 40 now and swarmed with work...I don’t think that’ll ever happen.

Blazing Stars: What are you afraid of? Is there a reason why?

Cars, because of trauma that I’d rather not get into. And, uh...I have apeirophobia. It’s...stupid, I know, many people would probably like to live on for forever. But for me, it’s just...it’s horrible. I don’t even know why. I guess it has something to do with existential dread.

Borage: Give a random fact about your childhood.

I had a lot of adoptive siblings and cousins, we were always close, and would always get into trouble together. I was raised on a farm with woods nearby, you can imagine I had a lot of opportunities and places where I could get hurt at, and I did. I was a stupid and reckless kid.

Bugleherb: How would you spend your last day on Earth?  

Oh man, that’s a loaded question...Honestly? I’d like to reach out to my family, spend my last day with them.

Buttercup: Relationship Status?

Taken~ By two wonderful, cute men.

Camelia: If you could visit anywhere, where would you want to go?

Oh, there’s a lot of places I’d like to explore, probably too many to list. As long as it’s as far away from civilisation as possible, I’m good.

Candytufts: When do you feel most loved?

I like to be held, I love hugs, they make me feel safe and loved. Preferably under a warm blanket with my partner or partners, late in the evening, the rain falling outside and the room is nearly completely dark as we cuddle...

Canna: Do you have any tattoos?  

I used to want to, as a teen, but unfortunately no...I did see some people tattoo over their burn scars, and I’ve been thinking about it, but considering how large my scars are it’d cost a lot, be very time consuming and most likely painful. So I don’t know, but I’m considering it.

Canterbury Bells: Do you have any piercings?  

Used to have a few as a teenager, now I only have one in my right ear.

California Poppy: Height?  

I’m 5′9′’.

Cardinal Flower: Do you believe in ghosts?

In ghosts? No, not really.

Carnation: What are you currently wearing?  

I’ll let you guess.

Catnip: Have you ever slept with a nightlight?

Sure did, I still sometimes do when my nightmares get the best of me.

Chives: Who was the last person you hugged?  

Jackie.

Chrysanthemum: Who’s the last person you kissed?

Northy, obviously~

Cock’s Comb: Favorite font?

My heart tells me Comic Sans, but my brain’s telling me to shut the fuck up and pick a normal font.

Columbine: Are you tired?

Always, 24/7.

Common Boneset: What are you looking forward to?

Autumn, we’re close to Summer and god damn it didn’t even start but I’m already over it.

Coneflower: Dream job?

I’m pretty content with my current one, but uh...maybe something less stressful? Probably a book author.

Crane’s-Bill: Introvert or extrovert?

Introvert, definitely.

Crown Imperial: What’s the farthest you would go for someone you care about?

 Honestly? I’d probably give my life to them. It mostly depends on the person though, and how much I care about them.

Cyclamen: Did you have a favorite stuffed animal as a child? What was it?

I had a ragdoll elephant named Mr Trunk. Still do, actually, he’s one of the few things I took with me when I started working here. He’s now sitting on my bookcase at my apartment.

Daffodil: What’s your zodiac sign?

Sagittarius.

Dahlia: Have you done anything worth remembering?

I don’t think so, no.

Daisy: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

Well...I guess overcoming my trauma counts as an accomplishment?

Daylily: What would you do if your parents didn’t like your partner(s)?  

Well, first of all, my biological parents are dead and my adoptive ones think I’m dead. But, if that weren’t the case, I don’t think Ma and Pa are the kind fo people who’d try to get between me and my partners. I feel like if they were legitimately concerned for me or had deep worries about my partner, they’d talk to me about it. So, nothing too dramatic.

Dendrobium: Who is the last person that you said “I love you” to?

...I’d rather not talk about them.

False Goat’s Beard: What is something you are good at?

Does writing shitty slashfics count?

Foxgloves: What’s something you’re bad at?

Do you want a list or something?

Freesia: What are three good things that have happened in the past month?

Well...I started dating Jackie.

Garden Cosmos: How was your day today?

Tiring, so the usual.

Gardenia: Are you happy with where you’re at in your life?

...It could be worse, honestly.

Gladiolus: What is something you hope to do in the next year or two?

...Uh...if my relationship with Karlos and Jack lasts...well...uhm...God, don’t tell them I said that, alright? But...getting married seems...nice...

Glory-of-the-Snow: What are ten things that make you happy/you’re grateful to have in your life?

My friends. They’re great, I don’t know where I’d be without them. Especially Tiff, they do so much for me...don’t tell them I said that, they don’t need any more of an ego boost.

Heliotropium: What helps you calm down when you feel stressed?  

A good book, audiobook or ASMR and a scented candle in an otherwise quiet room usually does the trick.

Hellebore: How do you show affection?

Usually through words, I didn’t get that damn doctorate for nothing.

Hoary Stock: What are you proudest of?

My work, I guess? My writing? Wait, no, I just remembered my longest work of fiction is a crackfic about mythological characters- I take that back.

Hollyhock: Describe your ideal day.

Just having an entire day to myself, no need to do any work, no stress, no deadlines. 

Hyacinth: What do you like to do in your free time?  

I take care of my pets and plants, read books, write.

Hydrangea: How long have you known your best friend? How did you meet them?

Oh man, it’s been a few years now. Uhm, my longest friend in the Foundation is Foster, we met in high school, but like I said we’ve had a bit of a falling out. Then it’s Tiff, I met them when I first joined the Ethics Committee. I met Karlos and Bright a few years later, and I’ve known Han for the least amount of time, but it’s still been years.

Irises: Who can you talk to about (almost) everything?

Uhm...Hm...Probably Tiff or Karlos. Han too, he’s a good listener.

Laceleaf: How many friends do you have?

A few. On top of the previously mentioned ones I’m also quite close to Clef, Kondraki and Light.

Lantanas: What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

Literally, any kind of compliment either of the O5-1′s or O5-11 gave me. Do you have any god damn idea how fucking hard it is to impress the Ones? And Ten...well, he’s just really nice and I appreciate him.

Larkspur: What do you think of yourself?

Anyway, next question!

Lavender: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

I have great fucking puns and if anybody says otherwise, they’re fucking wrong.

Leather Flower: What’s your least favorite thing about yourself?  

Do you want a list?

Lilac: What’s something you liked to do as a child?

Exploring, I guess it never really changed, I like spending time in nature, I just never have the time to.

Lily: Who was your best friend when you were a kid?

........Probably one of my siblings.

Lily of the Incas: What is something you still feel guilty for?

A lot, but let’s not talk about that.

Lily of the Nile: What is something you feel guilty for that you shouldn’t feel guilty about?  

Jesus Christ, what’s with these questions?

Lupine: What does your name mean? Why is that your name?

I had to look it up, and apparently, Jeremiah means “Yahweh will exalt”. I had no idea my name actually had a religious meaning. When I was born I was named after my grandma, and when I was changing my name I decided to kind of keep with the theme and named myself after my grandpa. He doesn’t know, actually, I never came out to them, but I like to think he’d be happy that I named myself after him

Marigold: Where did you grow up? Tell us about it.

Like I said before, in a small rural town on a small farm. Not much to talk about, really, I was a typical kid that grew up on the farm. Always got in trouble and always hurt myself doing stupid shit.

Morning Glory: What was your bedroom like growing up?

I was quite a tomboy and I loved cows, so just imagine a room with walls painted to resemble a pasture with cows on it and cow-themed furniture. Handmade too, by my grandpa and Pa, of course.

Mugworts: What was it like for you as a teenager? Did you enjoy your teenage years?  

I uh...I’d rather not talk about it.

Norwegian Angelica: Tell us about your mom.

Ma was a great woman, she always cared for me and my siblings, she treated me like her own kid straight away. Didn’t even batted an eye. Never made me feel weird or wrong for liking “boy things” like other adults outside of our family. She was quite fiercely protective of me too, quite a mama bear, I must say. A strong woman, could probably suplex a bear.

Onions: Tell about your dad.  

Pa was...well, Pa was just wonderful. He didn’t even hesitate for a second to take me in when his sis and my biological mother died. He was the first person I saw when I woke up at the hospital. He always made sure I was happy and taken care of. He taught me how to hunt and fight and play soccer and football. He was always very loudly supportive of me. I cannot express enough just how much I’m grateful to him and Ma.

Orchid: Tell about your grandparents.

They were very kind, your traditional old couple. I loved granny, but I was always closer to my grandpa. He taught me how to fish, I could always confide in him. He’s a great guy. Granny was wonderful too, I remember I always helped her out in her garden, she’d always scare me with potato bastards- I mean potato beetles, sorry, old habit- I fucking hate these motherfuckers. I love all animals, except for these ones. Potato bastards can suck a dick.

Pansy: What was your most memorable birthday? What made it be so memorable?

[Heavy sigh] My 4th birthday, my older brothers decided it’d be a fun idea to pick every potato beetle they could find from granny’s garden and throw them at me as a “birthday present”...........You know, I think I just realised why I hate these beetles so much.

Peony: What was your first job?

My first official job was in the Foundation, they hired me right when I finished college to help contain one anomaly, then I just stuck around and worked in Human Resources. I don’t think working small chores in our neighbours’ farms for some pocket change counted as a job.

Petunia: If you’re in a relationship, how did you meet your partner(s)? If you’re not in a relationship, how did you meet your crush/how do you hope to meet your future partner(s), if you want any?

I met North when he started working as a junior researcher in the same Site as me. Bright, I knew for longer for uh...obvious reasons, but I first met him in person during a disciplinary meeting. I also worked as an Ethics Committee Liaison in Site-19. You can imagine our relationship wasn’t the best at first.

Pincushion: How do you deal with pain?

Die.

Pink: Where is home?

Well, that sure is a deep fucking question. At this point...I don’t know, honestly.

Plantain Lilies: If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would stop/change?

...It’s...let’s not talk about that.

Prairie Gentian: Who is someone you look up to? Describe them.

No way in hell I’m telling you, he could read this blog.

Primrose: Describe your ideal life.

Living in a cottage in the forest or mountains as a fairly famous writer, with a spouse and a few kids.

Rhodendron: What is something you used to believe in as a child?

Soulmates. Then I grew a brain.

Ricinus: Who’s the most important in your life?

...So anyways.

Rose: What’s your favorite sound?

Uh, so you know how I listen to ASMR? Probably tapping.

Rosemallows: What’s your favorite memory?

Any kind of holiday with my family, we’d always get together and celebrate.

Sage: What’s your least favorite memory?

Let’s not talk about that!

Snapdragon: At this moment, what do you want?  

...Hm...Well, I am kind of hungry, I guess after this I should go eat something.

St. John’s Wort: Is it easy or difficult for you to express how you feel about things?

I think I’m kind of...intermediate on that scale. Generally, it’s easy for me unless it’s something very personal.

Sunflower: What is something you don’t want to imagine life without?

...yeah, another question I’m skipping.

Sweet Pea: How much sleep did you get last night?

Not a lot, I’m quite tired today.

Tickseed: What’s your main reason to get up every morning?

Work, I guess? Mostly just routine.

Touch-Me-Not: How do you feel about your current job?

Fucking stressful and exhausting, but it could be worse. That’s talking about my chairman position. But my work on Project X? I like it, one of the more pleasant jobs I had at the Foundation.

Transvaal Daisy: What’s your favorite item of clothing?

...Yeah, just take a guess.

Tropical White Morning Glory: Describe your aesthetic.  

Cozy, dark and gold.

Tulip: What would be the best present to get you?

...That’s a bit personal, actually.

Vervain: What’s stressing you out most right now?

The sheer amount of these questions, Jesus fucking Christ.

Wisteria: How many books have you read in the past few months? What were they called?

Unfortunately, I don’t have time for books lately, I did listen to a few audiobooks though. Also, I’m planning to revisit the Warrior Cats books because nostalgia and I need to know what the fuck is happening with these cats lately.

Wolf’s Bane: Where do you want to be in life this time next year?

Hopefully not dead.

Zinnia: Give a random fact about yourself.

Uhhh...hm...I’m petty, but you probably knew that already.

[skybound2]

🥺🌼💕 get to know your mutuals ! when you get this, it means someone wants to know more about you, so list 5 things about yourself you want your followers to know. they can be as simple as your age or as complex as your deepest fear, as long as it’s something you’re comfortable with sharing. when you’re done, send this to 10 people you want to get to know better ! 🥺🌼💕

Why, hello there, my dear!! *TACKLE HUGS* 

So, 5 things huh? *ponders* You know, it’s surprisingly hard to think of 5 random things about yourself without a specific prompt. It really SHOULDN’T be considering how many little facts make up a personalty, you know? And yet, here we are. So...prepare for some true randomness, I guess?

I refused to eat salads until I was in my mid-20s because I associated them with salad DRESSING which made all the yummy salad ingredients (which I would eat individually) WET AND GROSS. It wasn’t until I was, ostensibly, an adult, that I realized I could just ask to have them HOLD THE DRESSING and then I could eat the salad dry. After that, I started branching off by using a little bit of fresh lemon squeezed on the salad and found that was pretty good. AND THEN, I started to learn that I could lightly dip my fork into a lemon vinaigrette and take bites THAT way for extra flavor. These days, I can even handle a lightly drizzled balsamic on top, but mostly, I still prefer salads dry. 

I’ve never stepped foot on Fiji, but I once spent ~8 hours in a plane on a tarmac at an airport there while our plane refueled and exchanged pilots/crew members. We weren’t allowed to deplane for the duration as originally planned because of what the crew just referred to as civil unrest happening at the time, with no further explanations given. 

I have an absolutely ridiculous and non-nonsensical fear of dolls. Mostly the animatronic ones, or those ones that make baby-talk noises or ask for their mother and, just *shudders* This fear does NOT extend to stuffed animals, which I ADORE. It’s not a crippling fear or anything, but the chances of my ever stepping foot inside of an “American Doll” store or watching any movie featuring talking dolls as characters is less than zero. 

While I do not have any natural aptitude for languages, and have never spent any time trying to actually learn how to recreate an accent on purpose, I am extremely susceptible to picking up accents accidentally, and without realizing that I am doing it. This was especially noticeable during the 2 months I spent living in Australia, and the 2 years I spent living in Appalachia, but it has also been know to happen after a weekend binge watching BBC shows. 

When I was maybe ten or eleven, I spent HOURS every day in the basement sitting at an old typewriter/word processor (the kind that let you type a full sentence out on a little screen so you could make edits before hitting enter and making the keys pound it out onto the paper) writing a “book” that was my own take on a Christopher Pike style murder mystery teenage ghost story. (It wasn’t fanfic, but it wasn’t NOT fanfic either.) I am PRETTY sure that after several MONTHS of writing I actually finished the thing. I am also equally positive that I accidentally threw the entire 3-ring binder of it out one day without realizing it while cleaning up. I was devastated by the loss at the time, but this is the first time in probably a decade that I’ve even recalled the memory of sitting in that basement writing it, day in and day out...

[deadinsidedressage]

Do you have preferred tack cleaning products? I swap between a locally made two in 1 and neatsfoot oil and then effax leather combi and their leather balsam.

For tack cleaning--- I had a long standing relationship with castile soap. I currently use M.O.S.S. soap primarily. I also use Albion luxury saddle soap. I think M.O.S.S helps a bit more with retaining conditioning since it's a goat's milk glycerine soap.

For tack conditioning--- I used neatsfoot for years but no longer like it for various reasons. I mostly use mink oil still, but also use and like the Albion luxury leather conditioner. When I'm out of mink oil I'll likely buy Effax lederbalsam.

[laracroftsleatherjacket]

Flower Asks: all of them >:3€ (forgive me)

(this is so many omg but I’ll allow it only bc i love u)

Alisons: Sexuality? 

     Gay af (ace lesbean)

Amaranth: Pronouns/Gender?

     Waman (she/they)

Amaryllis: Birthday?

     November 2nd

Anemone: Favorite flower?

     Funnily enough anemones are one of my favs but i think my top favs are chrysanthemums and morning glories but I really love many flowers and flowers in general

Angelonia: Favorite t.v. show?

     As of right now, stranger things duh

Arum-Lily: What’s the farthest you’d go for a stranger?

     Like favors or? I mean I really do try to be a kind and helpful person but if I don’t know somebody or haven’t at least seen them a couple times before I usually don’t do much bc of anxiety 

Aster: What’s one of your favorite quotes?

     "The extraordinary is in what we do, not who we are.” Lara Croft mostly bc I cant think of anything else right now and that stuck with me

Aubrieta: Favorite drink?

     Like a really good cup of black tea with cream and sugar or sweet tea

Baby’s Breath: Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

     Never been kissed before but I definitely have someone in mind I would kiss ;3

Balsam Fir: Have you ever been in love?

     Hell yeah I am right now and I don’t think I ever have been before now

Baneberries: Favorite song?

     Oh hard question... currently really digging We Fell In Love in October by Girl in Red 

Basket of Gold: Describe your family.

     My family is supportive (for the most part) and very loving, even if they express love in weird ways sometimes. We also like to joke around a lot and make fun of each other but in a good way? Like we all have a good time mostly and I get along better with everyone since I started college

Beebalm: Do you have a best friend? Who is it?

     My girlfriend is my best friend uwu I also have a lot of good friends but yeah

Begonia: Favorite color?

     Purble but specifically like a pastel purple and purples that lean more towards blue than pink

Bellflower: Favorite animal?

     Lynx! I love so many animals tho and I also like many cats and domestic cats in general

Bergenia: Are you a morning or night person?

     Night!

Black-Eyed Susan: If you could be any animal for a day, what would it be?

     Probably would love to just be a loved house cat who gets to lay in front of the fire all day or a lynx bc i love them

Bloodroots: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

     A veterinarian (or a special agent lmao)! I also still plan on being a vet tho even tho I get discouraged at least once a month 

Bluemink: What are your thoughts on children?

     I mean I like kids and I was a camp counselor for a summer, but I dont really want any of my own

Blazing Stars: What are you afraid of? Is there a reason why?

     Oh god so many things.. Biggest thing would maybe be death/dying? Like if i think about it too much like the possibility of there just being nothing after death freaks me out. That and throwing up/nausea 

Borage: Give a random fact about your childhood.

     I played soccer and then I was a competitive swimmer so i was kind of an athlete? even tho i hated sports

Bugleherb: How would you spend your last day on Earth?  

     I think I would like to go to waffle house, have the perfect cup of tea, spend lots of time with my loved ones and pet my kitties, play video games with my gf, and sit under a tree in the mountains preferably on a warmer day in the fall and watch the sunset 

Buttercup: Relationship Status?

     Very happily taken

Camelia: If you could visit anywhere, where would you want to go?

     Always wanted to visit Norway

Candytufts: When do you feel most loved?

      Really big long hugs, good morning or goodnight messages, and I also really love cards 

Canna: Do you have any tattoos?  

     I have 6 

Canterbury Bells: Do you have any piercings?

     Yup! I have an industrial, orbital, and 3 earlobe piercings   

California Poppy: Height?  

     5′2 or maybe a little less

Cardinal Flower: Do you believe in ghosts?

     Yeah I think so, but I do also get freaked out easily lmao

Carnation: What are you currently wearing? 

     Red flannel, jeans, fuzzy socks, and big dyke boots  

Catnip: Have you ever slept with a nightlight?

     Yeah I did for a long time and I still sometimes sleep with one or like a bathroom light on if Im sleeping by myself in a new place

Chives: Who was the last person you hugged?  

     Either my mom or my dad I dont remember technically who was last bc my parents are visiting me at college

Chrysanthemum: Who’s the last person you kissed?

     Again, never kissed or been kissed! but maybe soon... :0

Cock’s Comb: Favorite font?

     Font? I like the font in Night in the Woods?

Columbine: Are you tired?

     Pretty much always either sleepy or tired lol

Common Boneset: What are you looking forward to?

     Christmas, getting to see my gf again, and Magfest!

Coneflower: Dream job?

     Like a veterinarian but having my own practice and also being able to take in injured wildlife if possible

Crane’s-Bill: Introvert or extrovert?

     Introvert for sure

Crocus: Have you ever been in love?

     Oh repeat question, hell yes

Crown Imperial: What’s the farthest you would go for someone you care about?

     Depends what it is but I would go pretty far for somebody I care about and Im also a crazy person and would drive/travel no matter what distance for someone I love

Cyclamen: Did you have a favorite stuffed animal as a child? What was it?

     Yup! I had a ballerina bunny, named Bunny because I was very creative and I still have her

Daffodil: What’s your zodiac sign?

     Scorpio

Dahlia: Have you done anything worth remembering?

     I think so? I did a lot of cool stuff with my GS troop like our bronze award project and going ziplining and to sliding rock. 

Daisy: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

     My GS gold award for sure, that shit was hard work and stressful af

Daylily: What would you do if your parents didn’t like your partner(s)?  

     Umm??? I would tell my dad to eat shit and die and I cant imagine my mom being anything but sweet and supportive so I dont even know

Dendrobium: Who is the last person that you said “I love you” to?

     You! This morning uwu

False Goat’s Beard: What is something you are good at?

     uhh Im pretty good at making sense of stuff in my science labs and reasoning and im sometimes good at art? I feel like I do traditional better but Im getting better at digital

Foxgloves: What’s something you’re bad at?

     bad at not being impulsive sometimes and bad at dead by daylight 

Freesia: What are three good things that have happened in the past month?

     a little over a month but officially got a girlfriend who i love very much, my gf came down to visit and we got to chill on the mountains together, and I had a pretty nice birthday 

Garden Cosmos: How was your day today?

     Good! Got breakfast at a diner with my parents and got coffee and a donut at my fav coffee shop so thats all i really need in life tbh 

Gardenia: Are you happy with where you’re at in your life?

     Yeah Im happy even tho Im stressed with school at times 

Gladiolus: What is something you hope to do in the next year or two?

     Get a job after graduation and hopefully get into vet school on the first or second try

Glory-of-the-Snow: What are ten things that make you happy/you’re grateful to have in your life?

     My kitty, mom, wonderful gf, sister, dead by daylight, heated blanket, apartment, waffle house, my sisters kitty, and my dog

Heliotropium: What helps you calm down when you feel stressed?  

     Donuts, coffee or tea, blankets, video games, and loud music

Hellebore: How do you show affection?

     Hmm... I really like to draw art for those i love, tell them how much i love them even though i can be bad with words, and i just try to spend a lot of time with the people I care about no matter what we are doing

Hoary Stock: What are you proudest of?

     uhhh trying to open up more? and Im really proud of my gf 

Hollyhock: Describe your ideal day.

     Going to waffle house. Go to a mountain and hike a little, sit on the top with girlfriend. Admire beauty of mountain countryside. Admire beauty of girlfriend while they admire the beauty of the mountain. Then warm up together with hot chocolate and play video games

Hyacinth: What do you like to do in your free time?  

     I like to doodle and do the arts, play video games, and I like to bake sometimes

Hydrangea: How long have you known your best friend? How did you meet them?

     uuuuuuh I have a good friend I’ve known since kindergarten or first grade when I first moved to where I currently live

Irises: Who can you talk to about (almost) everything?

     My gf uwu and my mem

Laceleaf: How many friends do you have?

     probably like less than 10 

Lantanas: What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

     I think its really cute especially when you compliment my laugh

Larkspur: What do you think of yourself?

     ??? I think I am an okay person? And I try to be a good person and be kind and polite to people

Lavender: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

     Umm... I mean I like that Im kind? and Im not fake and I try to be a good person     

Leather Flower: What’s your least favorite thing about yourself?  

      I hate that I procrastinate and that I can get frustrated easily at myself and at situations like crowds and traffic

Lilac: What’s something you liked to do as a child?

     I liked to play ‘restaurant’ with my sister with our littlest pet shops

Lily: Who was your best friend when you were a kid?

     I had a really great best friend named Rachel :c

Lily of the Incas: What is something you still feel guilty for?

     Losing a lot of friends and for being distant for a long time 

Lily of the Nile: What is something you feel guilty for that you shouldn’t feel guilty about?  

     Cutting off a friend that was bad for my mental health and who didnt treat me well even though we were best friends for a long time 

Lupine: What does your name mean? Why is that your name?

     My name is literally my parents ship name... like they even told me they chose my name by putting their names together lmao but I mean I like my name so i guess its okay..

Marigold: Where did you grow up? Tell us about it.

     Small town in new jersey when I was really, it was nice and family was closer. Then we moved and that was difficult but I ended up adjusting and it was good, had a decent amount of friends and the schools i went to were good

Morning Glory: What was your bedroom like growing up?

     For a long time I shared a room with my sister and we had a bunkbed and I had the top bunk of course, when we moved out of the apartment and into a house I got my own room and it was baby blue only because I told my dad that no, I didnt want a fuckin pink room and that was a whole thing lmao

Mugworts: What was it like for you as a teenager? Did you enjoy your teenage years?  

    It was good? but also sucked a lot. I had a lot of issues with my mental health and struggled for a long while with something. I was bullied and stuff at home wasnt always that great. And i got outed so that was fun. Other than that I enjoyed swimming competitively and I got into art

Norwegian Angelica: Tell us about your mom.

I love my mom!! she is the most Mom mom and is so sweet and always there for me. She helps me out so much with so many things and I just love my mom so much

Onions: Tell about your dad.  

     I mean I love my dad? And hes better than he used to be, but he still doesnt help with shit and irritates me a lot. 

Orchid: Tell about your grandparents.

     I never got to know my grandfather on my moms side bc he passed away a few months before i was born and I sort of knew my grandmother but she lived far away and passed away 10 years ago. I usually see my gramma on my dads side the most and I try to visit often and help her out with stuff and I love her even though she can be a bit... racist and shit.. and I sometimes see my grandpa and step grandma but they can be strict about weird shit and always ask a lot of uncomfortable questions

Pansy: What was your most memorable birthday? What made it be so memorable?

     I dont really do much on my birthdays? Ive had a lot of nice birthdays and it usually involves going out to dinner or having a nice dinner at home and having birthday cake and playing games like jenga or yahtzee.

Peony: What was your first job?

     I did some petsitting for a while but my first real job was being a camp counselor/tower belayer/lifeguard at a girl scout camp

Petunia: If you’re in a relationship, how did you meet your partner(s)?

     Met online after following them for a long time and drawing some arts for them, but didnt really start chatting until stranger things 3 came out bc I saw they had just watched it. Didnt meet irl until fursonacon and I just remember seeing them walking up to my car when I got there and just being like .... oh no.  I had already had a crush but at that point I was just heart eyes      

Pincushion: How do you deal with pain?

     Its a little fucked up but depending on the type of physical pain I like it? Like getting tattoos and stuff.. emotional/mental I just curl up in blankets and listen to sad music lol

Pink: Where is home?

    I feel like I have many homes? I feel really at home in the mountains, at home with my family, and when Im with my girlfriend

Plantain Lilies: If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would stop/change?

     Every event no matter how shitty shaped me into who i am today and Im pretty content and lucky with what I have today so maybe nothing?

Prairie Gentian: Who is someone you look up to? Describe them.

     My GS leader Miss Kristin. So incredibly kind and outgoing and just willing to do whatever she can to help others. Shes so adventurous and outgoing and made my gs troop so amazing. She is such a wonderful lady and shes basically like another mom to me.

Primrose: Describe your ideal life.

     To be with my SO in a nice cabin in the mountains with a nice fireplace. Its cozy and we have pets (especially kitties but also maybe a dog and chickens and such) and life is okay and we’re happy

Rhodendron: What is something you used to believe in as a child?

     God and Santa Claus (i was so heartbroken (over santa not God lmao))

Ricinus: Who’s the most important in your life?

     My girlfriend and my mom

Rose: What’s your favorite sound?

    My gfs voice and their laugh c: and I also really like the sound of thunderstorms and rain

Rosemallows: What’s your favorite memory?

Sage: What’s your least favorite memory?

Snapdragon: At this moment, what do you want?  

     To see my gf again and for winter break to just be here already I am so done with school lol

St. John’s Wort: Is it easy or difficult for you to express how you feel about things?

     Difficult? I try really hard to express how I feel but I usually mess up and I get anxious but I try my best lol

Sunflower: What is something you don’t want to imagine life without?

     Any of my loved ones and my cat 

Sweet Pea: How much sleep did you get last night?

     I wish I got more sleep but it was an okay amount

Tickseed: What’s your main reason to get up every morning?

     Good morning texts from my gf and my gf in general

Touch-Me-Not: How do you feel about your current job?

      I dont currently have a job but I occasionally do art commissions which is usually fun and gives me something to do 

Transvaal Daisy: What’s your favorite item of clothing?

     Any of my flannels and my leather jacket (also not mine but my gfs hoodie they gave to me to borrow)

Tropical White Morning Glory: Describe your aesthetic. 

     mountains, cabins, flowers, fall, flannel, small coffee shops, pastels 

Tulip: What would be the best present to get you?

     Im not one to be picky about gifts? I just love anything that someone put some thought into and thought I would like or reminded them of me but i feel bad if it was something expensive or anything lol

Vervain: What’s stressing you out most right now?

     Final exams and graduation

Wisteria: How many books have you read in the past few months? What were they called?

     0 lmao I used to read a shit ton but Ive been picky about what books I want to read lately 

Wolf’s Bane: Where do you want to be in life this time next year?

    Working towards applying to vet school and maybe thinking about moving out depending on a lot of things.

Yarrow: Do you know what vore is?

     Unfortunately

Zinnia: Give a random fact about yourself.

     I like collecting pins, pennies, and postcards which is funny to me

(So in conclusion,,, I love my gf)

(wow that was long as hell and took forever but done!)

[banchoaniki]

Multiples of 4 then ☠

4: Talk show host: Imma be real w you I havent watched a talk show since attack of the show on g4 and that got cancelled years ago 8: Yankee candle scent: Fresh Balsam Fir. Smells like christmas and being cozy. Pine scents in general are god tier 12: Thing to cook: Anything that puts a smile on the face of those who eat it. Or Steak, Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus. Its easy, nutritious, and delicious. (That’d make a good dating profile header) 16: Book: Hard question. I’d have to go with Colorless Tsukuru and His Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami. 20: Holiday: Thanksgiving! I was born on it, so I have to like it. Other than that, toss up between Halloween and Christmas. 24: Movie: Uhhhhhhh, for live action, its a toss up between A Clockwork Orange and Apocalypse Now. For animated, Mind Game 28: Band: I dont follow a ton of bands, so Death Grips I guess. Its not like I dont listen to other music, but its mostly individual songs as opposed to deep diving into their discography 32: Athlete: I dont follow sports dude. Maybe like Usain Bolt cause he also has a pet tortoise like me.  36: Vehicle: Triump Bonneville T-100 40: Last person I got mad at: Uhh my former friend who’s girlfriend left him for being a piece of shit basically 44: One person that you wish you could see right now: I’m not missing anyone a whole ton rn. Wish we could meet tho jaz! 48: Ever been in love: Of course, its great and terrible 52: My room is: Fairly messy rn but I’ll clean up soon.  56: Favorite web site: Certainly not tumblr dot com. Idk dude probably like youtube cause I spend a lot of time watching videos or listening to podcasts.  60: I lose all respect for people who: Treat their partners like crap 64: My friends are: Great people! Things have been getting better for a lot of people in my circle of friends recently, and they really deserve it! 68: The worst sound in the world: Nails on chalkboard.  72: Today: Pretty ok day. Need to get a few things under control and still need to work out a bit, but studied hard and met up w a classmate to work on a project together! 76: Right now I am talking to: No one in particular, but ive been talking to friends throughout the day 80: The first person i talked to today was: Probably my dad when he woke me up 84: People call me: a lot of things im sure. Depends on who you ask.  88: Something I will really miss when I leave home is: Connection to where I live. My family’s owned my house for almost 100 years now, living elsewhere lacks that certain je ne sais quoi 92: Got a peircing: Never! maybe in the future tho... 96: Changed a diaper: also never! didn’t have any siblings or a close connected family growing up so I never had to. When I’m a dad, I’m sure I will though 100: Cried in front of someone: Oh jeez, not really sure. Maybe a few months ago, but I can’t recall what for 104: The future: Its filled with infinite possibilities, I just have to work for a future I want. I’m not too worried about stability, but you never know. Always try to have contingency plans for your contingency plans.  108: Designer Clothes: Generally overpriced trash. I’d rather buy from a local artisan that makes clothes specifically for me. Not like I don’t shop for clothes or like looking good, but theres a lot of issues in the fashion industry that I take umbrage with and like to look for alternatives.  112: Facebook: Boomerbook is convenient website that I use on occasion but I find to be fairly toxic, like most social media, so i rarely post on it. I just use the messenger app to talk with friends. 116: Reality TV: Utter trash! There are a billion other ways to spend your time that are more productive and beneficial to yourself and others that getting caught up in some fake drama with celebrities.  120: Gay Marriage: I don’t believe any kind of marriage should be regulated by the government, as its a religious sacrament. If churches want to allow it, that’s their prerogative that I won’t infringe on, but that’s in an ideal world. As it stands, I don’t have any strong feels for or against it, insofar that I think most marriages are fairly toxic.  124: Disney or Six Flags: Didney Worl 128: Manicure or Pedicure: I’ll take both, thanks 132: Kat McPhee or Taylor Hicks: Whomst’d’ve?  136: Hillary or Obama: Both are genuinely terrible people like most, if not all, government officials in Washington.  140: Mac or PC: I built my own PC but iPads do be kinda fresh tho I can see why people who don’t have the same hobbies or interests prefer macs, their visual design blows most PCs out of the water, and they’re functional for work and video editing. They’re obviously overpriced for the performance, but you’re buying it for the label and the well designed UI (generally, theres obviously some UI designs that are/were less than great by apple) 144: Oranges or Apples: While I like oranges, I FUCKING LOVE apples. So yeah, apples, particularly Fuji apples.  148: Summer or winter: Winter. I live in Los Angeles. Our winters are mild and maybe drizzley. Our summers are hellish. Easy choice. 152: Phone or Online: Uh I mean I like talking on the phone but texting or instant messaging is super convenient and, really, a very different form of communication that I engage in more.  156: Orbs: Do i believe in orbs? What kind of orbs? idk dude this is very nondescript and im too lazy to research this. Orbs as a geometric object do exist yes. Jury is still out on whatever the fuck this is asking tho 160: Soul mates: A distinct possibility that I’d love to be true 164: Heaven: I’m catholic, pretty sure I have to believe in it.  168: Luck: Yeah, I believe in it, but I also believe we make our own luck most times. 172: Are you taller than your mom? yeah shes like 5′2  176: Last YouTube video watched: Sure hope you like smooth japanese jazz fusion  https://youtu.be/6GEI3PpXEAo 180: Marriage is: A great responsibility I hope to be ready for one day. It can be incredible and life-affirming or it can be soul crushing if you rush into things or just have a bad partner. I don’t mean to be cynical, I genuinely believe its a beautiful thing, but so many marriages today end up horribly, so I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t afraid of it at the same time.  184: Xbox or ps3: Whichever game console can give me a better user experience with better games and services. Right now that’s playstation, but I sincerely hope microsoft steps up to the plate next gen.  188: My bed is: A queen. Kinda messy rn.  192: I am allergic to: Nothing in particular 196: My eye color is: Green! I’m actually pretty proud of them, its the rarest eye color in the world, so its part of what makes me who I am.  200: My crush’s name is:  Jaz (no homo)  But also I’m not single so I don’t necessarily have any rn

PS: I sincerely apologize for this wall of text y’all 

[nadziejastar]

Isa’s TRUE Personality: The Beautiful, Tortured, Selfless Moon Goddess of Love (Part 1)

Saix’s weapons are an absolute goldmine of esoteric symbolism. There’s no way I can cover it all in one post; there’s just too much. But I want to do a series analyzing everything, to show just how differently his character ended up in canon, compared to how it was originally conceived. I think the original idea for Isa’s character and his relationship with Lea is extremely unique and utterly fascinating. According to the symbolism, Isa’s TRUE personality is exactly as the title describes. A tortured, beautiful, selfless Moon Goddess of Love who was clearly intended as a love interest for Lea.

Part 1: The Tortured Moon Goddess

Cool, collected, and mature beyond his age. He’s good friends with Lea.

— Jiminy’s Journal (Kingdom Hearts Union χ)

Saix’s title, Luna Diviner, is a reference to Selenomancy, named after the Goddess Selene. It is a specialized form of divination that examines the various aspects, phases, and appearances of the moon. According to diviners, moon phases are associated with certain personality types at the time of birth. There are several specific moon phases used as names for Saix’s weapons. Gibbous represents someone who is a healer and humanitarian. They care about other people; sometimes more than themselves. The pain and suffering of others is something that they are not only highly sensitive to, but also want to help transform.  

Balsamic Moon, is the waning crescent that is the trademark symbol on Isa’s jacket. It’s the final phase of the moon. This is a phase of decline and darkness—a rich opportunity for your soul to experience. It is considered the most Yin or Feminine phase. Balsamic means soothing or restorative. If you are born under this Moon, you will be aged and mature in some way. Balsamics are quiet, retiring and resilient; they are often seen as “old souls”. They are complex and wise beyond their years, as well as loners who usually only enjoy the company of a select group of people.  

New Moon is also known as the Dark Moon. It is the phase where the Moon’s energy is weakest. Even though the New Moon is invisible in the sky, those born under it are cloaked in darkness. They tend to lack self-awareness. They may be known for being selfish, callous, or unable to see things from other people’s perspectives. This weapon has the same shape as Berserker and Werewolf.

Saix’s Pandora Gear is Dichotomy. This word has several definitions. It means “a division or contrast between two things that are entirely different.” Or, “the phase of the moon in which half its disk appears illuminated.” It represents the clear division between the past and the present, Isa and Saix.   

Many of Saix’s weapons incorporate ♐︎ the astrological symbol of Sagittarius into them. I believe ♐︎ is meant to represent Lea. Sagittarius is a part of the Fire Trigon of the Zodiac. As an archer, he is said to never fail in hitting the mark. Sagittarius represents the centaur Chiron, an immortal centaur, who was renowned for his gentleness. After being accidentally shot by a poison arrow, he was in agony, but unable to find release in death. So he decided to offer himself as a substitute for Prometheus, who was punished by the gods for giving fire to man. Zeus saw the kindness of Chiron and immortalized him in the stars.

Axel’s weapon Prometheus is a combination of ♐︎ and the symbol of Mars ♂, and ALSO ♋ the Cancer symbol. Mars was known as the Roman god of war. He was said to love the violence and conflict. He carried a spear that was often depicted as covered in blood. He was the patron God of soldiers and was worshiped prior to battle. Soldiers in the Roman Army prayed to Mars before battle, hoping that he would protect them and lead them to victory.

Selene is shaped like a torch combined with ♐︎ the symbol of Sagittarius. In ancient Greek mythology, Selene is the Titan goddess of the Moon and is said to drive her glowing chariot powered by beautiful white horses across the sky each night. Her symbols were the crescent moon, a chariot, and a torch. Selene was very well known mostly because of her beauty. She was a very peaceful goddess and did not approve of war. Her personality was said to be secluded and timid.

Most Ancient Greeks looked to her for healing. Selene also had many powers that you would not think a moon goddess would have. Mythology states that she had powers surrounding dreams, she could harness the ability to awaken intuition and she could also catalyze psychic visions. As the patron of femininity, she was known to have the power to ease childbirth, to inspire love, to mask reality, and to pierce illusion.

Artemis has been commonly associated with Selene. She was the goddess of the Moon, the ruling planet of Cancer, and the daughter of Zeus. Her personality was individualistic and free-spirited, yet kind. She was a patron goddess of hunting and childbirth, and she was also the protectress of little children and baby animals. In Greek mythology, Artemis was usually portrayed as a very tall, beautiful young maiden with a hunting bow the shape of a crescent moon and golden arrows. She is often accompanied by either a stag or a dog. One of her special talents is calming animals, meaning that when she walks near them they come towards her and become calm.

Artemis is one of the ‘virgin’ androgynous goddesses, along with Athena and Vesta. Due to her well-integrated masculine energy and independence, she possesses an introverted temperament, preferring solitude. She was also known to be friends with mortals. Her assets were courage, confidence, and strength (both mental and physical). Her weaknesses were vengeance, impulsiveness, and being quite aloof. She was afraid of men, which is why she used to live in the woods and only went for walks at night. She rarely had any male companions; she only loved one person, Orion, but she ended up unintentionally killing him due to trickery. In her pain she appealed to Zeus to immortalize Orion in the stars so she could be with him.

A quiet and cool-headed youth. Though he does come out of his shell when talking to his best friend Lea, toward others he is distant and untalkative. Often scolds Lea and his contrasting personality.

— description from KHBBS Light Novel 2 (Best Friends)

The design for the weapon Astrologia incorporates ♋, the sigil of Cancer into its design. Cancer is associated with Artemis, who is similar to people born under the sign of Cancer. They are very modest, shy, and extremely emotional individuals who love children and pets. Artemis exemplifies the caring, nurturing and protective qualities of the mother. Deeply intuitive and sentimental, Cancer can be one of the most challenging Zodiac signs to get to know, but they are sympathetic and very attached to the people they keep close.  

Being ruled by the Moon, they are mysterious— they can struggle with sharing their innermost feelings. Cancer was known as the “dark sign” because of the obscured visibility of its constellation in the night sky. They have a tendency to brood and can be very moody and pessimistic. They often don’t have enough coping and defensive mechanisms for the outer world, so they can be prone to introversion and slow to warm to strangers. Cancers are quick to retreat into their shells if it suits their mood. The crab is a perfect symbol for the Cancer sign, symbolizing how a sensitive soul hides beneath a tough exterior.

A Cancer is caring and vulnerable, however callous they may appear on the outside. They are introspective and serene folk, who love solitude yet care gently for the people surrounding them. This receptive nature, however, makes them easily hurt. Cancer is the most emotional sign of the zodiac but at times they might appear icy and separated. Empathy for others is likely to be strong, and they will have an intuitive ability to sense what others need. They have a tendency to be quite clingy. Cancer’s shyness comes from their insecurity and deep fear of rejection. They are a cautious and shrewd people. 

Moon Rabbit is known as the Jade Rabbit in China. The Jade Emperor disguised himself into a poor, starving old man and begged for food from monkey, otter, jackal, and rabbit. Rabbit could only gather grass. Knowing well enough that grass can’t be offered as food to humans, rabbit decided to offer its own body, sacrificing itself in the fire the man had started. Somehow, though, rabbit wasn’t burned. The old man suddenly revealed himself to be the great Jade Emperor. Touched deeply by rabbit’s selfless sacrifice, he sent it to the moon to become the immortal Jade Rabbit.

More than just cute, fluffy, and white, the Jade Rabbit is a sign of selflessness, piety, and sacrifice. The Jade Rabbit is on the moon so that no matter where we are on Earth, we always have the ethics of righteousness and self-sacrifice to look up to. In East Asia, the Jade Rabbit is a widespread cultural symbol. When the bunny isn’t busy making immortality elixirs, it keeps the beautiful goddess Chang’e company in the Moon Palace.

Saix’s weapon Crescent is based on the Phoenix’s wings. This weapon represents the albedo stage of magnum opus. Following the chaos of the nigredo stage, albedo involves the washing away of impurities. In this process, the subject is divided into two opposing principles to be later coagulated to form a unity of opposites during rubedo. The aura is light blue, meaning truthfulness and serenity.

Psychologist Carl Jung equated the albedo stage with “unconscious contrasexual soul images; the anima in men and animus in women”. Jung described the animus as the unconscious masculine side of a woman, and the anima as the unconscious feminine side of a man, with each transcending the personal psyche. This makes albedo a phase where insight into the shadow side of the self is gained, while inflated ego is removed from the psyche.

So, that makes it VERY interesting that the weapon has a similar shape to ⚸. Even if they never planned to actually show it explicitly, the writers seemed to be inspired by Black Moon Lilith. Which raises very disturbing (though very interesting) implications about what happened during the experiments on the “darkness of the heart”. It would certainly explain how Axel’s personality became so warped. It would also explain why he didn’t find Saix’s personality change that unexpected, either, and why Axel seemed to always give him the benefit of the doubt no matter how cold he was. 

Astronomically, Lilith is considered an asteroid. Yet, some astrologers identify Lilith with the “Black Moon”. It’s the mathematical point that’s exactly in between the earth and the moon–essentially, empty space. Astrologically, it represents the cosmic void; the very energy Black Moon Lilith embodies. Psychologically, it is a point that represents how we react to emptiness and isolation. It brings up deep and primal issues like repressed feelings of rejection, rage, and the refusal to give in. This particular archetype is associated with sex, death, obsession, addiction, transformation, resurrection, magic, the occult and the taboo. These things are seen as the entry way between the spiritual dimension (or the underworld), and life on the physical plane.

Put simply, Lilith is the dark side of the moon. She represents animus, the feminine shadow side—What society rejects as appropriate for the feminine, Lilith takes up. The vilest manifestations of sexuality like pedophilia, rape, and satanic ritual abuse are all the domain of Lilith. She was actually said to be a hermaphrodite, so she could act as both a succubus and an incubus. Trauma based mind-control, through the use of sexual torture is another area connected with Black Moon Lilith. She symbolizes the transformation that occurs after going through a dark night of the soul. Usually, the trigger is great suffering, mourning, pain or torture. I can only imagine what poor Lea and Isa must have gone through.

Astrologically, Chiron (Sagittarius) stands in total opposition to Black Moon Lilith and all she represents. He is a symbol to remind us to look at the vulnerabilities we face in light of our connection to Divinity. Through the exploration of our wounds, we are called to heal all that creates a rift or disconnection with our Spirit.

[innerclouds]

more:

Flower Asks

Alisons: Sexuality? Ends with an "I".

Amaranth: Pronouns/Gender?

Yeah no.

Amaryllis: Birthday?

Eventually.

Anemone: Favorite flower?

Irises/Roses.

Angelonia: Favorite t.v. show?

Recently? Good omens was bretty gud.

Arum-Lily: What’s the farthest you’d go for a stranger?

5ft.

Aster: What’s one of your favorite quotes?

None in particular.

Aubrieta: Favorite drink?

Water, black tea, black coffee, root beer, ginger ale, Dr. pepper.

Baby’s Breath: Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

e-kisses, yes. But I'd prefer real.

Balsam Fir: Have you ever been in love?

Yes.

Baneberries: Favorite song?

None currently.

Basket of Gold: Describe your family.

Split in two.

Beebalm: Do you have a best friend? Who is it?

Bae.

Begonia: Favorite color?

Gray, black, blue, purple.

Bellflower: Favorite animal?

Shark.

Bergenia: Are you a morning or night person?

Owl.

Black-Eyed Susan: If you could be any animal for a day, what would it be?

Bloodroots: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Paleontologist, vet.

Bluemink: What are your thoughts on children?

Noisy, grabby sprats.

Blazing Stars: What are you afraid of? Is there a reason why?

Lots of things, yes and no.

Borage: Give a random fact about your childhood.

I was the weird nature/rocks/animals kid.

Bugleherb: How would you spend your last day on Earth?  

I've answered this.

Buttercup: Relationship Status?

Bae.

Camelia: If you could visit anywhere, where would you want to go?

I've answered this too.

Candytufts: When do you feel most loved?

Cuddling.

Canna: Do you have any tattoos?  

No.

Canterbury Bells: Do you have any piercings?  

No.

California Poppy: Height?  

Smol.

Cardinal Flower: Do you believe in ghosts?

In a manner.

Carnation: What are you currently wearing?  

Pink Floyd prism pants and brother's band logo t-shirt.

Catnip: Have you ever slept with a nightlight?

When I was very small, yes.

Chives: Who was the last person you hugged?  

Bae.

Chrysanthemum: Who’s the last person you kissed?

Bae.

Cock’s Comb: Favorite font?

Victorian parlor.

Columbine: Are you tired?

Very.

Common Boneset: What are you looking forward to?

Answered this.

Coneflower: Dream job?

See above.

Crane’s-Bill: Introvert or extrovert?

Intro.

Crocus: Have you ever been in love?

You asked this already.

Crown Imperial: What’s the farthest you would go for someone you care about?

Quite far.

Cyclamen: Did you have a favorite stuffed animal as a child? What was it?

Yes. Maggie.

Daffodil: What’s your zodiac sign?

Rat.

Dahlia: Have you done anything worth remembering?

Possibly.

Daisy: What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?

Bit personal.

Daylily: What would you do if your parents didn’t like your partner(s)?  

Too bad, I don't pick a partner to please them.

Dendrobium: Who is the last person that you said “I love you” to?

Bae, though not quite the same wording.

False Goat’s Beard: What is something you are good at?

Complaining.

Foxgloves: What’s something you’re bad at?

Self praise and self confidence.

Freesia: What are three good things that have happened in the past month?

Something game related, something personal related, something food related.

Garden Cosmos: How was your day today?

Mildly irritating.

Gardenia: Are you happy with where you’re at in your life?

Depends.

Gladiolus: What is something you hope to do in the next year or two?

Long list.

Glory-of-the-Snow: What are ten things that make you happy/you’re grateful to have in your life?

See too personal.

Heliotropium: What helps you calm down when you feel stressed?  

Naps, chatting, certain asmrs.

Hellebore: How do you show affection?

Gifts.

Hoary Stock: What are you proudest of?

I've answered this.

Hollyhock: Describe your ideal day.

I've answered this.

Hyacinth: What do you like to do in your free time?  

Sleep.

Hydrangea: How long have you known your best friend? How did you meet them?

I've answered this.

Irises: Who can you talk to about (almost) everything?

Bae.

Laceleaf: How many friends do you have?

No idea.

Lantanas: What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?

Drawing related.

Larkspur: What do you think of yourself?

Mostly negatives with some positives sprinkled in.

Lavender: What’s your favorite thing about yourself?

Hair.

Leather Flower: What’s your least favorite thing about yourself?  

Fill in all the blanks.

Lilac: What’s something you liked to do as a child?

Pretend I was a dinosaur.

Lily: Who was your best friend when you were a kid?

Didn't have any of those.

Lily of the Incas: What is something you still feel guilty for?

Too personal.

Lily of the Nile: What is something you feel guilty for that you shouldn’t feel guilty about?  

Accidentally'd a class pet.

Lupine: What does your name mean? Why is that your name?

"Noose". No joke, that's one of the meanings. No, I've never been happy about it. iirc great grandma wanted my name to be what it is, not for that specific meaning mind you.

Marigold: Where did you grow up? Tell us about it.

Small castle on a hill with a pond and a miniature forest behind it.

Morning Glory: What was your bedroom like growing up?

Messy.

Mugworts: What was it like for you as a teenager? Did you enjoy your teenage years?

*nam flashbacks* No I did not.

Norwegian Angelica: Tell us about your mom.

Reluctant turned mother bear.

Onions: Tell about your dad.  

Nonexistent.

Orchid: Tell about your grandparents.

Best.

Pansy: What was your most memorable birthday? What made it be so memorable?

I got one of those giant, original JP t-rex toys.

Peony: What was your first job?

Uncomfortable.

Petunia: If you’re in a relationship, how did you meet your partner(s)? If you’re not in a relationship, how did you meet your crush/how do you hope to meet your future partner(s), if you want any?

Outside of an inn in a snowy clearing by a campfire.

Pincushion: How do you deal with pain?

Ignore it until it gets too much then complain while chugging pain pills.

Pink: Where is home?

Somewhere far away.

Plantain Lilies: If you could go back in time, what is one thing you would stop/change?

Beat some sense into my past self.

Prairie Gentian: Who is someone you look up to? Describe them.

Bae. Bae is best bae.

Primrose: Describe your ideal life.

I've answered this.

Rhodendron: What is something you used to believe in as a child?

That we'd have cloned dinosaur pets, flying cars and those microwaved pill-food things from back to the future by now.

Ricinus: Who’s the most important in your life?

Bae, siblings.

Rose: What’s your favorite sound?

Rain, water, wind through leaves.

Rosemallows: What’s your favorite memory?

Lots of those.

Sage: What’s your least favorite memory?

See above.

Snapdragon: At this moment, what do you want?  

Triple cheese burger with onion rings and a large chocolate milkshake.

St. John’s Wort: Is it easy or difficult for you to express how you feel about things?

The latter.

Sunflower: What is something you don’t want to imagine life without?

Air.

Sweet Pea: How much sleep did you get last night?

Not enough.

Tickseed: What’s your main reason to get up every morning?

Not being broke.

Touch-Me-Not: How do you feel about your current job?

Meh.

Transvaal Daisy: What’s your favorite item of clothing?

Shirts.

Tropical White Morning Glory: Describe your aesthetic.  

Non existent.

Tulip: What would be the best present to get you?

Not sure, I'm not picky but I appreciate the thought more.

Vervain: What’s stressing you out most right now?

Long list.

Wisteria: How many books have you read in the past few months? What were they called?

I don't think I've picked up a book in about a year or more.

Wolf’s Bane: Where do you want to be in life this time next year?

Somewhere north.

Yarrow: Do you know what vore is?

Yes.

Zinnia: Give a random fact about yourself.

I think I had a mild case of caffeine overdose once.

[fanfeline]

7, 10, 32?

7. what song is your aesthetic?

Depends on the moment and the mood, you know? I’m going to have to go with “Letting Go” by Tracey Chattaway right now. It’s soft and rainy here, but also a little sad

10.  what do you wish you hated, but actually like?

Lafayette.

No, no, I’m kidding (mostly), probably nothing. I can’t think of anything that I want to hate that I don’t…hate.

32. do you have any strange interests?

I mean, does the French Revolution count? Everyone that I’ve talked to thinks I’m crazy for studying and loving this time period and these people - but then, 99% of the time, they don’t even recognize the name Robespierre, so what do they know?

For the vast majority of my life, I’ve studied HIV (just the biological workings, not in a sociological sense, although that’s also interesting) and MRSA, finding both of them fascinating. That’s definitely gotten me some interesting responses, and even more so when I was like 7.

I also really love urban ballet, balsamic vinegars, and frogs. Preferably not all at once, though.