#Black Obsidian spiritual meaning

[ask-aliasgar]

Black Obsidian Crystal

Black Obsidian is a volcanic glass that forms when molten lava cools rapidly, resulting in a smooth, glossy, and dark-colored material. This powerful and protective crystal has been utilized by various cultures for centuries, both for its practical applications and its metaphysical properties. Let’s explore the characteristics, significance, and various uses of Black Obsidian. Characteristics of…

[the-mortuary-witch]

BAPHOMET

WHO ARE THEY?

Baphomet is a Pagan deity that represents duality and balance. Most people work with Baphomet in order to become more peaceful, understanding, and balanced. Baphomet is often referred to as ‘Satan’ or ‘The Devil’, which isn’t true. People mostly say that because Baphomet has pentacle on their head and they have the head of a goat. A goat represents fertility and spiritually.

BASIC INFO:

Appearance: in some Pagan traditions, Baphomet is seen as a symbol of balance and unity between the Divine Masculine and Divine Feminine, represented by a human figure with the head of a goat. In other traditions, Baphomet is considered the personification of the primordial chaos and oblivion. In some folklore and myths, Baphomet was a symbol of fertility and reproductive power, and was often depicted as a hermaphrodite or a hybrid creature.

Personality: Baphomet is often depicted as a fierce and formidable entity, representing the destructive and chaotic forces of nature. Although they can seem intimidating and unpredictable, they also have a nurturing and compassionate side. Their personality is often reflected in the dual nature of Baphomet, where they are both masculine and feminine, gentle and fierce, peaceful and intense. They are a symbol of balance and unity, the meeting point of opposites and contradictions.

Symbols: pentagram, head of a goat, human body with an animal head, pentacle, sword, key, male and female, and the words "As above so below"

God/Goddess of: sexuality, demonic forces, wisdom, nature, balance, darkness, and pride

Culture: Demonic

Plants and trees: rosemary, lilacs, irises, lavender, aconitum napellus, black walnut, and cacao

Crystals: obsidian, amethyst, onyx, crystal quartz, garnet, black tourmaline, ruby, selenite, and brown quartz

Animals: black goats, snakes, wolves, ravens, dogs, oxen, and black cats

Incense: dragon’s blood, black musk, opium, frankincense, and mag champa

Practices: transformation, ancestor worship, shadow work, balance sex magick, manifestation, death magick, and nature worship

Colours: black, white, yellow, red, green, purple, gold, and dark blue

Numbers: 8, 13, and 666

Zodiacs: Pisces and Aquarius

Tarot: The Chariot, The Hermit, The Empress, and The Devil

Planets: Saturn and Mars

Days: Saturday, Tuesday, Walpurgis Night, Halloween, Blavatsky Day, and Yule

Parents: N/A

Siblings: N/A

Partner: N/A

Children: Azazel and Astaroth (not official)

MISC:

• The Union of Male and Female: Baphomet is often depicted with both male and female characteristics, symbolizing the unity of the masculine and the feminine.

• The Balance of Good and Evil: Baphomet is an entity of balance, symbolizing the interplay between good and evil in nature and in life.

• The Sabbatic Goat or The Horned One: Baphomet is often portrayed as a goat-like creature with horns.

• Harmony

• Knowledge and wisdom

• Power and strength

• Spiritual knowledge and enlightenment

• A balance scale, which represents balance and harmony

• The word "Solve and Coagulo", which translates to "divide and combine" and refers to the dualism nature of Baphomet

• Rebellion and defiance

• Freedom and individuality

• Unity and togetherness

• Chaos and disorder

• Sexuality and sensuality

• Nature and wildness

• Protection and defense

• Magic and witchcraft

FACTS ABOUT BAPHOMET:

• Name: Baphomet is named after the Greek word "baphos," which means "the virgin."

• Symbol of the Satanist: the imagery of Baphomet has become a symbol of the Satanist church, with variations on the iconography being used by other satanists.

• Relatioinships: Baphomet is a figure in the Gnoetics who often represents the synthesis of female and male principles.

• History: the figure of Baphomet is believed to have originated among Gnostics, a group who blended early Christian and Greek-Roman mythology.

• Role: they are believed to represent the balance of male and female and the union of good and evil, acting in many ways as a symbol of the Satanist.

• Associations: they are often associated with the concept of balance, as well as various other aspects of Gnosticism, such as the concept of the duality of existence, the synthesis of opposing forces, and the merging of opposites.

• Connection to the beast: it is said that Baphomet symbolized the balancing of the inner animal nature with spirituality and intelligence.

• Nature: Baphomet is considered to be a symbol of the balance of opposites, blending the masculine and feminine elements into a singular whole.

HOW TO INVOKE BAPHOMET: 

You must ask Baphomet if they want to work with you. Baphomet is a deity, so you shouldn’t be commanding them or telling them what to do. You must be patient with them. (Watch out for trickster spirits). Respectfully ask them to give you a sign, and if you’re respectful enough, you might as well get an answer. 

If they answer YES, you can create an altar to be more connected, but if you cannot then have something that reminds you of them. It can be small and simple. 

If they answer NO, respectfully apologize for disturbing them. If you connected through an object then you don’t have to throw it out, you can cleanse it and get rid of that intention. If it’s something from nature, you can bury it.

PRAYER FOR BAPHOMET:

"Great Lord Baphomet, keeper of balance and bringer of harmony, I come to you seeking your wisdom and protection. I offer myself to you, my heart and my spirit, and I ask for your blessing in this prayer."

"Thank you, Great Lord Baphomet, for walking by my side and guiding me on this path. I depart from this space with balance and peace in my heart and with a sense of purpose and direction. Hail Lord Baphomet.”

SIGNS THAT BAPHOMET IS CALLING YOU:

• A strong connection or attraction to Baphomet.

• Desire to explore or study Baphomet's teachings.

• Wanting to explore your own masculinity or femininity and find balance in your own nature.

• Desire to challenge social norms and embrace your own unique identity.

• Feeling of being guided by a force outside yourself.

• Feeling of being called to a higher purpose or feeling like there's more to your life than just everyday existence.

OFFERINGS:

• Your time.

• Meditation.

• Communication.

• Carving Baphomet’s symbol or name into a candle.

• Any kind of art of them.

• Being respectful.

• Learning about them.

• Candles.

• Liquor.

• Ropes.

• Incense: dragons blood, black musk, frankincense, etc.

• Animal skulls, bones, horns, etc.

• Dark or red flowers

DEVOTIONAL ACTS:

• Reject traditional values and social norms

• Embrace your masculinity and femininity

• Live a chaotic, self-guided life

• Reject authority and control

• Seek freedom and autonomy

• Balance your masculine and feminine energy

• Practice self-love and self-acceptance

• Live a hedonistic lifestyle of pleasure and indulgence

• Be brave, adventurous, and open to new experiences

• Live an unconventional life.

[bitter-bats-cult-of-the-moon]

Six Grounding Exercises

1. Tree Yourself.

Being ungrounded happens when you are out-of-balance. When energy is blocked, you are unable to access the support of the earth and the higher awareness of your spirit.

A simple grounding exercise involves the visualization of yourself as a tree. First, close your eyes. Next, visualize roots growing out from your feet. “Extend” these roots through the ground and going all the way down. Anchor them at the center of the earth.

2. Meditation.

Meditation helps bring about awareness. You notice the subtle energy changes within your body. You know if you are out-of-sync or if you have become ungrounded.

Practicing body awareness or moving meditations is helpful.

You bring your awareness into the now, rather than the past or the future.

You are aware of your physical existence even while increasing your spirituality.

If you are grounded, you are conscious of yourself and your current surroundings.

You don’t have to spend hours doing meditation. In fact, just half an hour a day is enough to expand your awareness.

3. Get Physical.

Physical activity helps to remove any accumulated toxic energy in your aura. When you shift your energy from an overloaded mental focus to a physical one, you can clear away any mental debris. Getting connected through physical activity does not necessarily mean that you must join a gym. All it means is to allow your mind a chance to take a break.

4. Nature.

Going out by the ocean or just being in nature is a wonderful way to revitalize. Working with soil or clay helps in grounding. Simply touching the earth helps. Gardening is a wonderful grounding activity as it reconnects you with nature.

5. Grounding Foods.

According to Ayurvedic Medicine, there are grounding foods that you can eat, and it suggests Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Ginger, Avocado, Mango, Papaya, Grapes, Olives, Berries, Coconuts, Figs, Melons, Green Beans, Egg Plant, or Yams.

For flavoring your food, use warming spices such as ginger, nutmeg, garlic, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and cloves. A dash or two of fennel and/or sea salt also works.

6. Grounding Crystals.

Obsidian

Black Tourmaline

Smoky Quartz

Jet

Blue Kyanite

Simply hold the crystal in your hands, and visualize any unwanted energies flowing outward, and into the crystal itself. Occasionally, you will need to cleanse the crystal by putting it on the soil of the earth to drain and clear it of any negative charges.

[lichtluxx]

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟWho is Leviathan?

Leviathan is described as a primordial serpent, found in many ancient myths of the Middle East. The most famous being Tiamat, for example. Unlike many other entities, he does not appear in any known grimoire, but in the Bible itself.

Isaiah 27: Leviathan is described as a sea serpent, long, strong, twisted and swift.

Job 41: Leviathan is described as a monster with a mouth that spews flames, a nose that smokes, a breath that kindles fire, and strength in its neck.

Psalm 104: Leviathan is described as a sea monster that plays in the sea.

In Jewish mythology, YHWH created two Leviathans, one male and the other female, as a way of demonstrating his power. However, he killed the female one in fear of human extinction if the Leviathans reproduced. For this reason, for many practitioners, Leviathan can choose to appear as either a man (like in my case) or a woman, sometimes changing between both forms. His name comes from the Hebrew Livyatan which means to twist, turn or coil.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟENN:

Jaden Tasa Hoet Naca Leviathan

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟDates:

April 30th, May 2nd, September 21st

Monday

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟHerbs / flowers:

Lavander, iris, lotus, copal, mint, valerian, eucalyptus, sandalwood

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟ Crystals:

Aquamarine, Pearl, Obsidian, Sapphire, Moonstone, Tanzanite, Black Tourmaline, Hydrogen Quartz, Amazonite, Black Jade, Clear Quartz

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟSigns? How do I know if he wants to work with me?

Signs can vary. For me, he simply appeared in a dream, so I didn't have many signs.

But it is common to think about the sea or feel like being in the water, dreaming about the sea, seeing his sigil (Leviathan cross) everywhere, seeing snake and/or ouroborus themed objects, him visiting your dreams.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟ Domains:

Darkness, emptiness/abyss, emotions, unconsciousness, dreams, shadow work, emotional healing/processing trauma, changes, justice, banishing magic and help in creating spells.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟTypes of offerings:

Pearls, shells, starfish, fossils, blood, seawater, bones, dragon, snake or ouroborus themed items, sweets, green tea or white tea, dark music, blue flowers, devotional art, study of philosophy, psychology and science.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟFun fact:

Leviathan's most known sigil, well known as the "Satanic Cross" or the Brimstone symbol, it represents absolute balance. The two bars at the top of the cross symbolize double protection and the balance between the masculine and the feminine. The lower part shows the symbol of infinity, which symbolizes the eternal balance of the universe, of life and death, eternity and/or a double ouroborus that symbolizes the balance between the spiritual and the material.

A/n: Many people don't know who he is or don't work with him and, as someone who started working with him very recently, I wanted to make this little post in his honor 🥺

[coven-of-genesis]

Simple ways to spiritually protect your home -

There are several simple ways you can spiritually protect your home.

Here are a few suggestions:

Cleansing and purification: Start by physically cleaning your home, decluttering, and removing any stagnant energy. Open windows to let fresh air in and use natural cleansing agents. As you move through each room, visualize and intend that the smoke or scent purifies and clears any negative energy.

Salt barriers: Salt is believed to have protective and purifying properties. Sprinkle salt at the entrances and windowsills of your home to create a barrier against negative energies. You can also place small bowls of salt in different areas of your home to absorb any negativity.

Protective crystals: Crystals are thought to have various energetic properties that can help protect your home. Some protective crystals include black tourmaline, amethyst, clear quartz, and obsidian. Place these crystals in different areas of your home, such as near entrances or windows, to create a protective energy field.

Blessings and prayers: You can perform blessings or prayers to invoke positive energy and protection for your home. This can be done according to your personal beliefs or religious practices. Walk through each room of your home, offering prayers or blessings while visualizing a positive, loving, and protective energy surrounding your living space.

Intention setting: Set clear intentions for your home's energy and state your desire for it to be a safe and protected space. Visualization can be a powerful tool. Envision a shield or bubble of light surrounding your home, creating a barrier against negativity while allowing positive energy to flow in.

Sacred symbols: Place sacred symbols or objects around your home that hold personal meaning or are associated with protection. This could include religious symbols, sigils, or objects that have spiritual significance to you. These symbols can serve as a reminder of the protective energy you wish to cultivate in your space.

Remember, spiritual protection is a personal practice, and it's essential to find methods that resonate with you and align with your beliefs.

Feel free to adapt or combine these suggestions in a way that feels most authentic and meaningful to you.

[tiredwitchplant]

Everything You Need to Know About Crystals: Black Obsidian

Black Obsidian (The Regal Warrior of Stones)

Color: Black, Dark Brown

Hardness: 5-5.5 (softer than quartz)

Rarity: Easy to Acquire

Type: Igneous Rock (Comes from a Volcano)

Chakra Association: Root

Angel: Uriel

Deities: Pele, Tezcatlipoca, Itzpapalotl and Sekhmet

Element: Fire, Earth

Astrological Signs: Sagittarius, Scorpio, Aries

Planet: Saturn, Pluto

Origin: Anywhere with Volcanic Activity

Powers: Protection, Grounding, Clarity, Releasing Blockage, Drawing out Stress, Creativity, Divination and Scrying, Negativity Banishment, Transformation and Absorption

Crystals It Works Well With: Howlite, Malachite

How is it Created: Obsidian is a black volcanic glass, formed when molten lava hits cold water or air and solidifies. It is composed of silicon dioxide (quartz) and many impurities which allows it to take different shapes and colors. Black obsidian gets it coloring from iron and magnesium.

History: The earliest obsidian tools can be dated back to the Oldowan, at the dawn of the Paleolithic/Stone Age (2.6 million- 10,000 BCE). Different origins of this rock can be found in Britain, Italy, Mexico, and the USA. In Egypt, obsidian knives were used in ceremonial circumcisions, as well as making mirrors (scrying mirrors for most) and other decorations in tombs. The word “Obsidian” was first used by a Roman explorer, Obsius, who “discovered” it in Ethiopia. In the Americas, Obsidian was used as a symbol of Tezcatlipoca, the chief god of the Aztec religion. Tezcatlipoca means “smoking mirror” which is why a lot of the Mayan priest used the glass rock for scrying mirrors like the Egyptians did. On the Eastern Islands, obsidian was used to make the eyes of the Moai statues before they were lost. The indigenous tribes of North America used pieces of obsidian to make arrowheads, spears and even knives by using an antler in order to carefully form different shapes.

What It Can Do:

Grounds the soul and spiritual forces into the physical plane, making it possible to manifest more spiritual energy

Increases one’s self control

Forces you to face your true self

Brings imbalance and shadow qualities to the surface to release them

Repels negativity and disperses self-hating thoughts

Powerful meditation aid

Great for scrying and divination as the glass allows you to look to see the “clear truth”

Can heal you after a spiritual or mental attack

Was used in the past during ritual for healing physical disorders

How to Charge:

Sit with the stone in the palm of your hand and enter a light meditation. Use your thoughts to charge the stones with desires of protection and make sure the thoughts are clear and concise.

Use high vibration to amplify the crystal

Use a singing bowl to send sound energy into it

Place it in a bed of Himalayan salt and let it sit for 48 hours

If you work with a sun or moon deity, I have noticed charging it in the sun or moonlight with the idea of protection helps to charge it as well

How to Cleanse:

Run under water (not hot just lukewarm) for a minute

Create a saltwater solution and submerge it for up to 24 hours

Burn herbs or incense over the obsidian with the intention of cleansing (I personally use sandalwood incense for this)

Leave your stone under the full moon to cleanse and retrieve in the morning

Bury your obsidian in your garden for 48 hours

How to Get the Best Out of It:

Wear a black obsidian bracelet. The wrist area is a highly energetic zone because it has nearly direct access to the bloodstream. This (in my opinion) is the best place to have obsidian to create a powerful shield and help with manifestation.

For lighter dosage, use an obsidian ring.

Crystal Grid:

Letting Go (Triangle Grid)

Mantra: “I release everything that no longer serves me”

Center Stone: Smokey Quartz Tower

Secondary Stones: Obsidian, Malachite, Rhodonite, Citrine

Best Moon Phase: Waning or Dark Moon

Best Day: Saturday

Sources

[theoccultmoon]

The Basics of Setting up an Altar

Setting up an altar can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be, creating an altar is a deeply personal and spiritual process. It serves as a sacred space for connection, devotion, and intention. Whether you're building your first altar or refining one you've had for a while, the process should feel meaningful and aligned with your unique spiritual path. Every altar is unique because every entity is different! These are general tips to help you if you’re feeling a bit lost, but always remember to adapt them to what feels right for you and the entity you're working with. ♡

‧₊ .ᐟ Cleansing the Space ♡ ‧₊˚ ⋅

Before setting up your altar, consider cleansing the space and the items you'll include. This can be done in various ways, such as with smoke, sound, or intention. 

 (I will make a more in-depth post about cleansing in the future) If cleansing isn't possible for you right now, don’t stress! Setting your intentions while arranging your altar is more than enough. 

୨ৎBudget-Friendly Approach୨ৎ

As I always say, you do NOT need to spend a fortune to set up an altar. Use what you have at home and work within your means. There’s no need to buy fancy tools or decorations unless you truly want to. 

༺♡༻Symbols, Colors, and Personal Touches༺♡༻

Study the entity you’re dedicating the altar to! research their symbols, colors, animals, objects, and anything else that resonates with them. This will help you brainstorm ideas for what to include. 

For example: 

Hecate: 

Candle colors: Black, purple, or silver to reflect her connection to the underworld, intuition, and magic. 

Objects: Keys, torches, representations of dogs, serpents, or moon symbols. I personally added some unused keys from around my home to her altar. 

Crystals: Obsidian, moonstone, or labradorite to enhance intuition and spiritual protection.

Apollo (Sun God): 

Candle colors: Yellow, gold, or orange to represent his solar energy, creativity, and healing. 

Objects: Lyres, sun symbols, laurel leaves, golden objects (like coins), or representations of swans and crows. 

Crystals: Citrine, sunstone, or amber to amplify his connection to light and vitality.

Poseidon (Sea God): 

Candle colors: Blue or teal to symbolize his domain over water and emotions. 

Objects: Shells, a small jar of ocean water or sand, images of horses, or tridents. 

Crystals: Aquamarine or blue calcite to reflect his oceanic energy. 

Gaia (Earth Goddess): 

Candle colors: Green or brown to connect to her nurturing and grounding energy. 

Objects: Stones, potted plants, herbs, moss, or natural items like twigs. 

Crystals: Moss agate or green aventurine to embody her nurturing and grounding essence. 

ಇ Finally, remember that this is your altar, so include items that resonate with you personally. For example, a cherished photo, a handwritten prayer, or an object that connects you to the entity makes the space even more special and meaningful. 

Take your time, trust your intuition, and enjoy the process. Your altar will grow and evolve as you do, and that’s part of the beauty of this practice. 

You can find more posts like this on my Patreon!

https://www.patreon.com/posts/basics-of-up-116454223?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

✮ Thank you so much for taking the time to read my conten! I truly appreciate your support. I would love to hear about your experiences with setting up your altars. Feel free to share your stories, ideas, or questions; it’s always inspiring to learn from one another! ✮

[astra-ravana]

The Magick of Spiders

Spider Totem

Spiders are very delicate creatures that play an important role in the myths and legends of many peoples as the teacher of balance between past and future, the physical and spiritual. To the Native Americans, Spider is Grandmother, the link to past and future.

With its gentle strength, the spider spins together the threads of life with intricate webs. The spider shows that the past affects the future and vice versa. It tells us to make use of our creativity and weave our dreams imto destiny.

For many Native Americans "Spider Woman" stories are important creation mythologies. One of the common features of those are wisdom symbolized with spiders' webs (she taught humans how to weave). Also generally accepted are the ideas that her thread connects the human world and the world of the spirits or the "above world and the below world". The Spider also weaves the relationships of the Web of Life and all beings.

Spider Symbolism

Web of life: The spider reminds us that all paths are connected. You are on the right path because all paths lead to the same place. The spider's 8 legs represent infinite possibility, the gifts of the web of life. Be patient, accept life's trials; you are on the right path.

Eight/infinity: Neverending possibilities, abundance, balance, control, creating your reality.

Keywords: Creativity, feminine power, patience, persistence, emotional awareness, strategy, wealth, attraction

Meanings: Spiritual transformation, evolution, being present, protection, alignment, manifestation, you are the creator of your own destiny

Shadow side: Vampirism, calculating, manipulation, venomous thoughts, ensnarement

Associated crystals: Labradorite, kambaba jasper, obsidian, epidote, howlite

Associated herbs: Spider plant, spider lily, aconite, sunflower, foxglove, fern, ivy, vervain

Seeing a spider is usually a lucky sign, most often associated with creativity, money, and protection. "If you wish to thrive, let the spider go alive." Conversely, money will be lost if the spider dies.

Spider Sightings

Garden Spider: Garden spiders are bold, bright, and beautiful and similarly their spiritual meaning carries a message of confidence and courage, with a dash of charisma as well. Don't be afraid to be seen in your full, authentic glory, even if it catches some by surprise.

Black Widow: Seeing a black widow spider can carry spiritual significance related to the power of persistence and transformation. Ancient wisdom instructs us to look towards this spider for motivation, reminding of the power of our shadow, that no matter what life throws at us, we can persist, adapt and integrate. Through these teachings wa can connect to our darker, feminine aspects, and gain strength of spirit to move on despite hardships and difficulties.

Wolf Spider: The spiritual meaning of the wolf spider insists that we pursue our objectives now. Now is the right moment, so it is best to take action using all of your creative abilities. Wolf spider also assures us we will be successful, regardless of how obtainable the goal may seem. Do your diligence and strike when you see your opportunity.

Daddy Long Legs: Daddy long legs remind us to keep balance in our lives and be patient. They show us the beauty of moving through life with grace, encouraging us to stay connected with our world. Their presence is a gentle nudge to slow down, observe, and find harmony in our busy lives.

Jumping Spider: Embrace their agility and adaptability to navigate life’s twists. Channel patience as you manifest your dreams. Let their courage fill you with boldness, and their ingenuity spark your creativity. Stay curious, explore new horizons, and strive for balance and precision in all you do. Let these tiny, spirited arachnids remind you of the vast potential that lies within your own leaps of faith.

"In the beginning there was the dark purple light at the dawn of being. Spider Woman spun a line to form East, West, North, and South. Breath entered man at the time of the yellow light. At the time of the red light, man faced his creator. Spider Woman used the clay of the earth to create people. To each she attached a thread of her web which came from the doorway at the top of her head. This thread was the gift of creative wisdom. "

[accio-victuuri]

of course there is a new jewelry to obsess about so i’m here! it’s been a while since i saw something new related to wyb cause it has always been 🦴 and the rest are his chanel stuff. and a bracelet??? a bracelet??? this is a first for me. so i’ve lightly discussed before what we think this is for. i don’t see any closet accounts confirming it yet so we may be wrong. we can’t see it clearly but if it is as significant as we think it is, then it will show up in the future.

i would imagine there are different meanings to giving someone with obsidian in them but cpfs are more on the positive meaning of it. leaning towards how it is given as protection.

1. Eliminate negative energy: Obsidian’s energy is strong and pure. It is absorbing energy. Wear an obsidian bracelet or pendants can effectively eliminate the harmful substances attached to the wearer's body.prevent interference from surrounding negative energy, and expel bad luck.

2. Remove disease: Obsidian is a naturally occurring black colored gemstone and also relatively absorbent crystal. lAfter wearing it on the body, it can effectively remove the toxins from the human body. The yin and yang energy of the human body reaches a balance, which is beneficial to the health of the human body and healthy development.

3. Restore physical strength: Obsidian can increase the life of the human body and strength, when worn regularly, it can help the human body recover. restores physical strength. it can also relieve the mental stress of the human body. it can also improve people’s sleep quality and have a positive impact on physical health.

4. Protect safety: Obsidian° is a very good body protection and talisman, because it is a spiritual object. Wear it close to your body for a long time, which can increase your own protection. The protection function can also effectively prevent the invasion of external evil spirits.

you get the point, it is for his protection. 🤍

CHROME HEARTS is not new to WYB. he wears a lot from the brand but really more on clothes but not accessories. I’ve seen some photos from before, xz was wearing a particular CH pendant multiple times but none after 2020. so maybe the choice of brand is he knew that WYB likes it and chose from there.

they are just too sweet 🍬🍭😭😭😭😭

-END.

[stellar-pop]

Cultural references of Citlali

Citlali is my favorite character in Natlan and I haven’t seen people talking about her amazing but subtle elements in her design, she seems to have mostly Aztec and Mexica references which makes sense since these two communities were intertwined with each other at some point in history, I just wanna ramble about the elements I noticed! ;

DISCLAMER

If you think I got smth wrong tell me, even though I’m Mexican I cannot memorize every single detail about the cultural groups I’m talking about (Mexica/Aztec) , I had to do some research for this :P, if you also think there’s more elements I would absolutely love to start a conversation!!!! I love discussing the cultural aspects of Natlan as a whole!!! Also I know Natlan is based on the “ring of fire”, hence, I will not speak about cultures that I’m not a part of until I have done the proper research!

Name Origin!

Citlali’s name means star, but it’s also a derivative from the goddess Citlallicue, which can mean “skirt of stars”. In Mexica mythology she’s the creator of stars, and goddess of the milkyway, there’s also some writings which have Citlaltonac as her husband, but others say it’s just another variation of her name

Possible color inspiration

Citlali’s pink color palette is not a coincidence, she seems to be based on an axolotl, specifically the Ambyosta Rosacium, whose colors are a result of albinism

these animals have the ability of regeneration and keep several of their larva characteristics in their adulthood, the axolotl was thought to have eternal life because of their regeneration capabilities, or “eternal youth” in a sense

the Mexicas tought that this animal was the god Xolotl, the aztec god of the sun, and also called the “afternoon star”

Cultural references

Ilamatecutli could also be another variant of Citlallicue, in Mexica mythology she is the goddess of wisdom and old age, she was also the “feminine representation of old age” in some writings, other variants are “the old lady” and “custodian of traditions, fertility, earth and the knowledge passed down through generations”.

Ilamatecutli was also thought to be another variant of Chicomecoatl, goddess of corn, or the “old corn”, while this may be reaching I wonder if that also influenced her black/purple color palettes since there is the purple/black corn variant

Her dark purple tones can also be a reference to obsidian which was used in all of Mesoamerican for a variety of reason, but I want to highlight that it was used to create “obsidian mirrors” by the Aztecs, I believe this is where her nickname came from since these objects were called itzli! These mirrors had the power to reveal hidden truths, communicate with the spiritual world, and predict the future. Shamans and priests used these during various ceremonies along with other objects

The instrument used to make this textiles is actually called “telar de cintura” the most literal translation would be “waist loom”, but it seems that the translated English word is “blackstrap loom” probably pointing at her skirt in her design! Her entire desing is also filled with both Aztec and Mexica elements such as the triangle and diamond motifs, plus the “eyes” that characterize her tribe

That’s the cultural elements I could notice from Citlali, she’s my favorite character from not only from a design standpoint but also personality wise, and as a Mexican I am absolutely floored that I was able to recognize so many little details from Mexica and Aztec culture after researching her design !!!! I am also thinking of making a Kinich post since he seems to have various Mayan influences

[esoteric-chaos]

What is Protection Magic? The How-To's and Methods

Protection is necessary in the world we live in as it is just a fact of life. Did you know we need spiritual protection too? Whether it be protecting yourself from negative entities, negativity, curses or someone's bad vibes you need to be able to keep your peace and personal safety. Protection magic can either be offensive, defensive or both.

We touch on a form of protective magic called warding in another post, warding is a defensive type of protection magic. You can also do baneful wards. Those are an offensive and defensive type of magical protection.

Here are some other methods of protection that you can keep on your persons or place within the home.

Spiritual

Black Salt - Great for both protection, warding and banishing. Please be careful around pets with salt as they can get sick if eaten.

Water - Holy water, blessed waters and moon water can be used in rituals, baths or in sprays.

Incense - Dragons Blood, Rue, Sage, Rosemary, Mugwort, Frankincense, Blackberry Leaves, and Pine are all great to burn for protection. Can be made into herbal sprays.

Sprays - Herbal sprays can be made to be sprayed around the home and self for protection. Be cautious with pets.

Crystals - Black obsidian, Labradorite, Tigers Eye, Selenite, and Black Tourmaline can be carried or worn for protection

Sigils - Created with protective intent.

Witches Bells - Witches bells hang on your doorknob or on your door (inside the home) for protection and banishing. When someone comes into the home it rings, banishing negative energy.

Talisman - Objects with spiritual and historical meaning for protection. Can be worn or hung around the home.

Charms - Objects enchanted with the intention of protection. Can be worn or hung around the home.

Energetic Shielding and Armor - This is a form of warding but I'd like to place it here as well. Energy shielding and armour are very much like making protections and wards around your home, they're made with the energy you manifest within yourself or if you are someone who has low energy it can be borrowed from energy sources. I go into this more in my Warding post.

Physical

Veiling - Wearing a blessed head covering will protect you from other's personal energies. It can also help you stay in tune with your own energy without being overwhelmed by that around you.

Baths/Showers - Submerging yourself in water with protective herbs and oils. You can also shower with protective herbal soaps and hang a mesh satchel with protective herbs over your shower head.

Infused spell oils - Oils infused with protective herbs can be placed over the pulse points, third eye, feet and heart area.

Makeup/Skincare - Things like foundation, concealer, serums and moisturizer can all be used with the intention of protective barriers. Same with scented lotions, perfumes and leave-in conditioners. Makeup can even be colour correspondence with protection. Drawing a sigil for protection under your foundation may aid too. This is what’s considered glamour magic. Get creative with it!

Clothing - Wear protective coloured clothing like Black.

Vocal - Prayer to deity/ancestors/guides/etc for assistance. Prayer from a holy book.

Feel free to leave your methods below!

Blessings!

Looking for my posts all in one place? Check out the Masterpost

[high-priestess-house]

𝕸𝖊𝖗𝖈𝖚𝖗𝖞 𝕽𝖝. 𝕴𝖘 𝕳𝖊𝖗𝖊

Mercury retrograde begins at 4° Virgo and ends at 21° Leo, traversing two distinct signs with unique energies. Virgo, known for its precision, analytical thinking, and focus on health, sets the stage for the retrograde’s beginning. As Mercury moves backward into Leo, the emphasis shifts to creativity, self-expression, and leadership.

The Astronomy Behind Mercury Retrograde

Astronomically, Mercury retrograde occurs when the planet appears to move backward in its orbit from our perspective on Earth. This optical illusion happens due to the differences in orbital speeds between Earth and Mercury. Since Mercury orbits the Sun much faster than Earth, it occasionally overtakes us, creating the retrograde effect.

During this time, Mercury is closer to Earth, and its gravitational influence is stronger. However, it’s essential to remember that the planet isn’t actually moving backward; it just appears to do so due to our vantage point. This phenomenon typically lasts about three weeks and happens three to four times a year.

Key Aspects and Influences

Mercury-Venus Conjunction (August 7): This alignment at 3° Virgo intensifies themes of love, beauty, and harmony. It encourages us to reassess relationships and personal values, potentially bringing past issues to the forefront for resolution.

Moon Transits: The Moon transits Virgo from August 5-8, amplifying the need for mental clarity and health focus. Later, as it moves through Gemini from August 25-28, it highlights communication and intellectual pursuits. These periods are ideal for grounding and introspection.

Impact on Zodiac Signs: Each sign will experience this retrograde uniquely. Virgos may feel heightened anxiety, needing to manage stress and details carefully. Leos might reassess personal goals and creative projects, focusing on refining their self-expression.

Astronomically, Mercury’s retrograde motion is an optical illusion caused by the relative positions of Earth and Mercury in their orbits around the Sun. This period is a fascinating time to observe the planet in the sky, appearing to move westward against the backdrop of stars.

During its retrograde phase, Mercury is best viewed just after sunset or before sunrise. Use this time to connect with the cosmos and deepen your understanding of planetary movements and their symbolic meanings.

Utilize the Moon in Virgo for rituals focused on health, well-being, and grounding. When the Moon is in Gemini, focus on communication and intellectual clarity. These phases are perfect for enhancing mental and emotional stability through magic.

Mercury retrograde can be a powerful time for introspection and magical work focused on reflection and realignment.

Perform rituals to release old patterns and recalibrate your energies.

Cleanse your space, and set intentions for clarity and purification. This is a powerful time for letting go of what no longer serves you and making room for new insights.

Create a sacred space to meditate and reflect on past actions, decisions, and relationships. Use crystals like amethyst or clear quartz to enhance clarity.

Shield yourself from potential negative influences by casting protection spells using black tourmaline or obsidian.

If old friends or lovers resurface, use this time to mend or release these connections. Light a blue candle (associated with communication) to facilitate open and honest dialogue.

Mercury retrograde is a potent time for divination practices such as tarot, astrology, and scrying.

Reflect on past issues and seek guidance on navigating current challenges. This period supports deep self-inquiry and uncovering hidden truths.

From a spiritual perspective, Mercury retrograde is a time for inner work and growth. It’s an opportunity to slow down, reassess, and realign with your higher purpose.

Practice mindfulness to stay grounded and centered. Meditation can help you maintain clarity and calm amid the chaos.

Document your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Reflecting on your entries can provide valuable insights and guidance.

Engage in energy healing practices like Reiki or crystal healing to balance and align your chakras.

Use positive affirmations to counteract any negative thoughts or fears that arise during this period. Affirm your ability to navigate challenges with ease and grace.

Practical Tips for Thriving During Mercury Retrograde

Be Flexible: Adaptability is key during Mercury retrograde. Have backup plans in place and be prepared for unexpected changes.

Double-Check Everything: Whether it’s an important email, a travel itinerary, or a contract, double-check all details to avoid errors.

Slow Down: Take your time with tasks and decisions. Rushing can lead to mistakes and misunderstandings.

Stay Grounded: Grounding practices like walking in nature, yoga, or deep breathing can help you stay centered and calm.

Mercury Retrograde may have a reputation for causing disruption, but it also offers a unique opportunity for reflection, realignment, and growth. You can navigate this period with confidence and ease. Embrace the introspective energy of Mercury retrograde, and use it as a time to pause, reflect, and prepare for the forward momentum that will follow.

[talonabraxas]

The Flower Moon Talon Abraxas

Flower Moon Meaning

The Flower Moon’s name isn’t much of a mystery given the time of year it graces the sky. Gardens and landscapes are in full bloom with perennials such as primrose, bleeding heart, bloodroot, iris, violet, hellebore, peony, et cetera; flower trees such as pear, crape myrtle, crabapple, magnolia, redbud, dogwood, and others; and spring bulbs including bluebell, hyacinth, lily of the valley, tulip, daffodil, crocus, and more.

As for the May full moon’s other names, this is the time of year when the tribes and farmers plant corn. The frogs are singing their mating songs, and milk-producing livestock such as sheep, goats, and cows now have lush green pastures to fill their bellies and produce more milk.

Flower Moon Spiritual Meaning

The May full moon embodies the spirit of Beltane and all the energy of new life, passion, fire, and rebirth. It brings creativity, inspiration, and a sense of purpose with it.

The Flower Moon in May is a spiritual reminder that our goals should be manifesting. This is the blooming season, but it’s also the planting season. Tap into the energy for growth and fertility. Take some time to think about your intentions and what needs to be done in order to reach your goals come harvest season. This may mean asking yourself some hard questions and reevaluating your priorities and plans.

Don’t feel overwhelmed if you feel like the goals you set at the beginning of the year are still far away. We can’t magically leap to the top of the staircase in a single jump; the journey happens one step at a time. If you feel like you aren’t progressing, take a moment to focus. What do you need to prioritize? What is the next step forward that needs to be taken? What is holding you back (and therefore needs to be released)?

Let the spiritual energy of the Flower Moon inspire you to continue growing, even though it comes with a reminder that we can’t move forward until we let go of what’s inhibiting our ability to fully blossom.

Flower Moon Altar Tips, Colors, & Crystals

The most common altar colors for the Flower Moon are yellow, red, orange, and green. Freshly cut flowers make a perfect altar decoration.

In fact, you can go even further and find many more ways to incorporate flowers on this special night. Arrange them in vases to decorate your home. Integrate them into your tea and cooking. Add them to your bath. Press blossoms that you can later use in your book of shadows, journal, artwork, or even a thoughtful surprise tucked in a card for a loved one.

Crystals that work well with the Flower Moon include:

Moonstone – new beginnings, fertility, intuition, lunar/feminine energy

Selenite – purification, cleansing, protection, a symbol of light, ties to the moon

Labradorite – connect with the psyche, dreams, creative muses, spiritual awakening

Amethyst – spiritual protection, insight, self-reflection, shadow work

Rose Quartz – love, friendship, romance, self-love

Rhodonite – “stone of love,” passion, fertility, grounding energy, healing emotional scars

Flower Agate – new beginnings, self-growth, restores emotional balance

Moss Agate – restoration, healing, rebirth, a connection with earth and plants

Black Tourmaline – strength, stabilization, grounding, alleviating fear (onyx and obsidian are also good alternatives)

Smoky quartz – grounding, emotional calmness, stress relief

Clear quartz – healing, peace, cleansing the mind and aura, divination

[1galaxia369]

TAURUS RISINGS ♉️

Energy vampires! I hear that loudly for you guys. You need to do some deep cleaning-- to your social life and the people you hang around. I hear you need to hold these people accountable for their actions and stop making excuses for them. Words don't mean anything when their actions don't match with what they say. They can say "I love you" all they want, look at their behavior! Does it match up with love? Do you think someone who loves you would do certain things? Make you feel the way do and make you question yourself and what you stand for? It's time for you to do the hard things--for yourself, for your mental health, for your happiness. How much do you love yourself? Are you worth sacrificing for? If your answer is anything but an absolute and resounding "yes" then you need do some inner work.This pattern of behavior is the reason you are feeling stagnant, your surrounding yourself with too much negative energy whether it's negative thinking or negative people. It's time to do a purge, maybe get some Palo Santo or or some incense. An egg cleanse or a spiritual bath is needed also. It's time to make your decision to evolve into the you you want to be. It's time for you to BECOME. 🙏🏾

Out with old and in with the new, the refreshed and renewed. ASE. You need only allow people in your life that will actually invest in you and collaborate and support your projects and dreams. You need more supportive friends and family around, that's the energy that your need to surround yourself with. Those are the people who bring ease and flow into your life and with ease and flow comes the abundance and creative wealth. You can't tap into this beautiful energy with all those different negative energies surrounding you all the time. You need peace & quiet and time to breathe. Do a breath check as often as you can. Deep breath in. Deep breath out. Do it until you feel a release.

Move in power like the boss you are, confidently show case you creativity and skill. You have an empire to build, you don't have time to spend it with people who will never help you build it.

It's time for you to look into self and go through every aspect of yourself you have an issue with or that you feel contributes to an issue, when you look at each thing decide if this is something you want to keep dealing with or is this something that you need to let go for the better. You have to ask yourself if these situations (situationships) and friendship are benefiting you or draining you. Are you pouring more into these people emotionally or materially? The generousity that you keep splurging on unhelpful people can be put to use to actually help people who need it or be invested into your crafts and ideas.

Your real tribe will come to you when you begin your journey. There's an endless amount of abundance in this new path, you'll be unlocking a great amount of wealth and wealth of success. This is an outcome that is well deserved, you get your rewards from hard work, all the time you invested will be for a future of beautiful abundance

I recommend working with Celestite, rose quartz, obsidian or tourmaline (black if you can). Also smudging (sage,Palo Santo, incense), egg cleanse or a spiritual bath. Work with Florida water for cleansing purposes.

10:10

[3outoften]

"Haunted"

Scrooge lingering sickbed for months, late one night in a trance saw a familiar figure sitting on the edge of his bed. Uncovering the black veil, obsidian eyes at the moment but as if dusty, couldn't see what she really think inside. "Letting your old coin accompany you to the last moment of your life, I've already done my best." Seeing his long time unseen arch-enemy, Scrooge knew for himself that they would have to come to this day eventually. With a hint of frustration still welling up from the bottom of his weak and exhausted body, he removed his oxygen mask and signaled for Magica to come over. Magica obediently came over to him ready to listen to his last words, only to be caught off guard with a kiss. Scrooge smiled and closed his eyes, for the rest of her life, Magica had to ponder what he meant by that kiss.

Consciousness seemed to have wandered in the universe for a hundred thousand years, and then also it seemed like only a moment had passed, Scrooge once again opened his eyes to see a witch with slightly reddened and annoyed cheeks and a psychic circle that she had gone through countless information and spent heavenly sums of money to lay down.

After Scrooge left her with a kiss and passed away, Magica almost forgot to take the number one dime with her in her shock and anger. "What the hell does he mean?" A new chapter in her unchanging life began, and after failing for the thousandth time, Magica finally made up her mind to use the number one dime as part of her spiritualism. The number one dime that was most closely connected to Scrooge literally called back his soul with the powerful magic it contained. He himself didn't expect that a bad joke could bring him back from the dead to a certain extent.

Now that Scrooge's soul is trapped in a coin, and Magica is unable to refine a magical amulet from the haunted coin, they both feel that it is all the other's fault, of course.

(I used translator for the above, I am sorry if it reads weird.)

[hae-yeon]

329.Black Dragon's Heart (4)

흑룡의 심장 (4)

“Having thus come to an accord–see to it hence.”

The Young Chaos waved a hand in our direction, showing an extremely put upon expression. ‘See to it hence,’ he said.

“What…exactly should we be doing, sir?”

“Had you not been paying attention, all this while.”

“Uh… I suppose I should end my Skill first then, sir?”

Since we were currently in a ‘dream’ dimension, we would probably have to continue this once we were back outside in reality, I figured. But Chaos shook his head.

“The lizard will simply lapse back into slumber, once you depart. This may be a ‘spiritual realm,’ but as it still retains a connection with the ‘real’ World, you must first see to transferring its consciousness.”

- Bring out my Heart Shard.

The Black Dragon spoke up after Chaos. I pulled out the Black Dragon’s Heart Shard from my inventory, as it had commanded. It looked like a shard of shattered obsidian, slightly smaller than the size of my palm. A crimson aura gently pulsed across the pitch black surface.

‘...isn’t this similar to what happened that time, with the Changeling.’

After entering Sung Hyunjae’s spiritual realm, I’d obtained a shard from him back then, too. The Newcomer had reassured me that ‘an ordinary human wouldn’t be able to exert any influence on it~’, except that Sung Hyunjae hadn’t been just an ordinary human, as we’d assumed; and so the Changeling had been created, as a result.

“Seeing as it was originally intended to be a mount synthesis Skill–then, rather than simply upgrading his blade, does that mean ‘nurturing’ the heart will result in the creation of a Black Dragon, sir?”

“Consider it the acquisition of a pet. A shard of that size should only result in a meager F-rank, in any case.”

- A ‘pet,’ you say.

“Even if an S-rank or higher magic gem were to be synthesized alongside it, sir?”

“That would raise the final rank, certainly, but muddy the state of its consciousness as well.”

Be that as it may, the end product being an F-rank would prove inconvenient for me. It was already hard enough for me to safeguard my own body, much less play valet to an elderly dragon. Owing to its link to Yoohyunie’s blade, I wouldn’t be able to just wash my hands of it, after all.

“Black Dragon-ssi, it would prove disadvantageous if you end up becoming an F-rank, for a number of reasons. To avoid putting yourself at risk, it may be more prudent to aim for a higher rank by adding a magic gem to the equation, sir. I would be willing to provide you with an S-rank magic gem, free of charge, as a complimentary service. Of a suitable attribute as well, of course.”

The Black Dragon mulled this over for a moment, then replied.

- A measly S-rank magic gem should not be capable of holding much sway over my consciousness, I presume.

“It was such arrogance which previously cost that fool its life, mind.”

- It would have been far more preposterous for one such as I to exhibit wariness towards a hatchling of a human! When you weren’t even an ‘Alpha,’ no less!

The Black Dragon roared angrily at Chaos’s provocation, apparently aggrieved. 

“You didn’t start off as an ‘Alpha,’ sir?”

“I mentioned there were fewer ‘Alphas’ seen among the Transcendents prior, did I not. Ah, though Crescent Moon was indeed said to be an ‘Alpha.’”

“Crescent Moon? Of what affinity, would you happen to know, sir.”

“I do not. Our paths have hardly crossed, as it were.”

So they weren’t close buddies, huh. Such a thing did bode better for us, but well. To think, the Young Chaos hadn’t used to be an ‘Alpha.’ He seemed to have been an outstanding individual from the get-go, in any case. Even if he hadn’t been a born S-rank, he’d probably been the equivalent of an S-rank Awakened, at least. Letting out hot puffs of air, the Black Dragon groused.

- They may have called me ‘the Scourge of the Central Continent,’ but it’s that blasted meddler that was the real ‘Scourge,’ as far as I’m concerned. To have someone like him show up out of the blue and derail everything, after the great lengths I’d gone to protect my World…!

“‘Protect your World’–from the Origin, do you mean, sir?”

- Naturally, as all of the monsters sent by the Origin were weaker than I, of course.

The Black Dragon replied haughtily. It made sense; with a fiend like that standing guard, even if the Origin had beset the place with monsters, its World could have managed to avoid being swallowed. Most importantly, it implied that so long as an L-rank Awakened was available to champion a World, it could avoid annihilation. So long as the Transcendents kept their nose out of things, that was.

“‘Protect,’ you say. If one were to disregard the collateral damage inflicted, perhaps. Due to that lizard taking up residence in the Central Continent, not only were scores of mountains dissolved and the rivers filled with molten metal, but the all-pervasive heat resulted in a permanent drought afflicting the land.”

“Sounds like it was an absolute disaster, sir.”

So even after managing to escape from the grasp of the Origin, that sort of side effect was still possible, huh. A new apocalypse, brought about by the hero-nim who had saved the World in the first place. A team scenario might prove more advantageous, then. Since they might turn on each other afterwards, at least.

In any case–since the Black Dragon had claimed to have saved its World, I put on an appropriately reverent expression and began subtly interrogating him. 

“Dealing with the monsters sent by the Origin must’ve been quite the arduous task, sir. Were you at L-rank when that took place, by chance? I’d be interested in hearing what rank those monsters might’ve been at, as well. And did you take care of all of them on your lonesome, sir?”

- I single-handedly dealt with the strongest ones, of course.

As the Black Dragon preened once more, Chaos interrupted its swaggering with a cold splash of reality.

“Questioning it will yield no useful answers. This one merely hunted as it pleased, without ever intending to deliberately embark on a quest to ‘save the World.’”

Since he’d mentioned that the Black Dragon was a Fire-affinity entity too, it had just been the byproduct of going around burning everything down on its own without any regard for others, I supposed. The Young Chaos continued speaking in a stage whisper, at a volume that was still pitched loud enough for the Black Dragon to hear.

“For an ‘Alpha,’ it is fairly dim-witted. Such a thing is said to occur every so often, among the dragon-type ‘Alphas’ that possess more monstrous strength from the onset. Because their ‘existential presence’ is so excessive, they sometimes degrade into a mere ‘beast’ that has lost its ego altogether.”

Now that he mentioned it, Diarma had seemed to be on the slower side too, compared to the other Transcendents. The Black Dragon, having obviously ‘overheard’ everything Chaos had said, let out a savage growl. It seemed unable to refute his assessment, though, as it didn’t provide a rebuttal; and soon after, its eye drifted closed. Simultaneously, the heart shard placed on top of my palm grew hot to the touch. The red aura flashed brightly for a brief moment, before seemingly being sucked into the shard, leaving the surface a pure black.

“...did the transfer work, sir?” 

Almost as soon as I’d asked, the Black Dragon’s head slowly began to sag. The same went for its body, limbs, and tail, scattered hither and yon. Like snow melting under the rays of a summer sun, they started to wilt away. An empty expanse of earth became visible beyond the massive body, showing where the land met the sea.

“When you insert the Heart into your back, make certain to include a measure of that brat’s essence as well. His blood should suffice in that regard, I imagine.”

Hearing Chaos’s words, Yoohyunie’s expression, which had been stiff enough to begin with, only grew harder.

“Why does it have to be hyung again.”

“Yoohyun-ah.”

“Is it not something I can do in his stead, sir.”

“Certainly not. If you are so dissatisfied, then resolve to give up the blade.”

Give up the blade! I hurried to placate Yoohyunie before he said something regrettable.

“It’s just the nature of my Skill, yeah. Sure, it leaves a bit of a scar–but I’m a Hunter too. Compared to the risk a Dungeon raid poses, where your life hangs in the balance, it’s basically a cakewalk. And if you take my long work history into account on top of that, then, rather than you–”

“‘Work history’?”

Yoohyunie’s voice dropped, turning cold.

“What exactly do you mean by ‘work history,’ hyung. Don’t tell me, you used to go into Dungeons before you Regressed? Hadn’t you mentioned that, unlike now, you’d only had a handful of Skills in your arsenal back then.”

“Yeah–of course I went into Dungeons.”

I felt a prickle of dread, but continued on calmly, answering him as though nothing was wrong.

“Hey, d’you really think I’d have just stayed put, with my disposition being what it is. You know how I’m like even now, right. I’m afraid I ended up causing you a lot of heartache back then, too.”

“.......”

“But I managed to survive, still.”

At my words, Yoohyunie’s expression finally relaxed, and I breathed a sigh of relief in turn. I’d really have to be more careful about what I let slip.

“Let me do it, okay. You heard the Black Dragon earlier, right. If an L-rank was able to rebuff the monsters, it seems likely that it’d take multiple SSS-ranks at minimum to pull off the same–when it’s like that, we absolutely can’t afford to give up on a weapon that can reach L-rank.”

“...I know. It wouldn’t be worth it, otherwise.”

My dongsaeng responded glumly. But he didn’t seem to be as resistant to it as I might’ve expected him to be, at least; perhaps because we’d gone at it a few rounds together, earlier. Even if it hadn’t been in the real world, he’d already gotten to bury his sword into my body, after all. 

“Elder–thank you very much for all of the assistance you’ve provided us, sir.”

When I bid him thanks, intending to slowly begin making our way out, Chaos looked at Yoohyunie and I with a dour expression, and took a step forward. Then, suddenly.

“Yoohyun-ah?!”

Losing consciousness, my dongsaeng slumped forward. Chaos, who had suddenly materialized at Yoohyunie’s side, casually reached out with a hand to snatch Yoohyunie up by the scruff, preventing him from crashing into the ground. He then passed my dongsaeng onto me. Catching Yoohyunie as he was very nearly tossed in my direction, I staggered under his weight for a moment before falling flat on my backside. It felt like all my strength had left me, as though I’d reverted back to F-rank stats.

“He has only been rendered temporarily unconscious.”

 “What’s up with you all of a sudden, sir!”

“You indicated that you did not want your dongsaeng to be privy to these conversations, no.”

The Young Chaos replied bluntly.

“This damnable brat. Do you sincerely hope to live a long life, then.”

“Yes, sir.”

I answered, looking up at him. Chaos gave me a deep scowl.

“Yet your actions hardly align with your words.”

“I really do plan on living quietly, sir, once the world’s no longer in danger. And I’ll actually apply myself towards living a long and healthy life, too. My goal is to live to be a hundred, at least–though I don’t know how many years I might have left.”

In lieu of a response, a small hand stroked the top of my head with a fair amount of force behind it. It felt a bit painful, but at the same time, the gesture felt warm.

“What a callow young colt.”

“First a bull, and now a colt. What’s next, sir–a dog, perhaps.”

“Dogs know to be obedient, at least. The vexing matter is that, where the elder colt goes, the younger one seeks to follow.”

“That’s what worries me most, sir.”

I looked down at Yoohyunie, held in my arms. My concerns only increased with each passing day, all because of this dongsaeng.

“There are a few other people he’s willing to at least tolerate, though, sir. Our household has a third member too, you see.”

“Hah? You mean to say that there is yet another one like yourselves? Truly, the end times have come.”

“She’s a good kid, sir!”

“That is also what you said about the Second, is it not.”

That’s, Yoohyunie was a well-mannered young man too, but… I suddenly felt a bit apologetic towards Yerimie.

“Regardless–he gets along with Peace as well, sir. And he should continue to change bit by bit, so. You said as much yourself, right, Elder–that it shouldn’t be out of the question.”

“Yet, no matter the change he undergoes, there is still his fundamental nature to contend with. I doubt he will ever allow himself to hold anyone in his heart but yourself. Such is his innate disposition. Even if you were to abandon this dongsaeng of yours, his devotion to you is an ever-fixed mark, that looks on tempests and is never shaken–it alters not with brief hours and weeks, but bears it out even to the edge of doom(1).”

“Abandon–I would never…….”

I unconsciously ground my teeth together; then, looking changing the subject, I grumbled.

“Your speech only seems to be becoming more and more dated, Elder. You’re going so far as to incorporate hanja(2) now, I see, sir. That being said, you seem to have quite a mastery of Korean, sir–do you possess a language-related Skill, perhaps?”

“It is not the work of a Skill, but rather a localization feature enacted by the System–but it is ‘dated,’ you say? A result of that rabbit’s tinkering, perhaps.”

“If it’s the Newcomer you’re referring to, sir, isn’t he more ‘puppy-faced’ than anything else, though. Just because his ears are long, doesn’t mean that he’s automatically a ‘rabbit.’ Although lop-eared rabbits certainly do exist–if you take his incisors into account, for example, he seems to be either a carnivorous or omnivorous species, sir.”

“And what would a brat such as you, who has never even encountered a meat-eating rabbit, know of such matters.”

“Ah, c’mon–I’m telling you, sir, he’s obviously a puppy, how could you think otherwise?”

“A rabbit.”

We went back and forth in a pointless debate for a moment. It didn’t seem as though we would come to a consensus, in any case. Deciding to put aside what amounted to a trivial matter, I proceeded to probe him about Yoohyunie again. Since I wasn’t sure when I’d ever be able to see him again, I was determined to find out as much as I could.

“I assume you’ve encountered several ‘Alphas’ that are like Yoohyunie, then, Elder–could I ask you to elaborate a bit more on the subject, if so. What happened with them, sir? Someone-ssi mentioned they tended to lead brief lives, but there should be individuals who managed to live for a long time too, right, sir?”

“Eighty percent die during infancy.”

“...that many, sir?”

“When even ‘Alphas’ are already so repulsive to others, those who are tantamount to the incarnation of the ‘Origin’ itself are typically abandoned as infants, far more often than not. The rare scenarios in which they tend to survive, are if the ethics held by the society they are born into, and the social systems put in place, endeavors for the protection of their young.”

…no matter how exceptional a born S-rank might be, if they were to be abandoned before they could even walk, they wouldn’t stand a chance of surviving. It was a blessing that in modern times, at least in Korea, it was fairly difficult to just throw away children. That he hadn’t simply been sent away to an orphanage, too, was an immense relief.(3)

“Have there been any situations where the guardian was also an ‘Alpha,’ sir? It seems to me that ‘Alphas,’ being the same sort, might be able to get on well enough with one another.”

“It is an ‘Alpha’s’ tendency to live only as their whims lead them. Would such creatures be inclined to devote themselves to the rearing of a dull, unresponsive child, I ask you. Perhaps they would experience intrigue for a short while–but soon grow weary of the endeavor, and abandon the child thereafter.”

Which reminded me, Sung Hyunjae had made overtures towards Yoohyunie for a brief interval, too, after realizing he was ‘special,’ only to lose his interest before long. …it made my blood boil, just thinking of it. He better not even dream of laying a finger on him again. Nor anyone else, for that matter. He wouldn’t have developed an interest in grooming Yerimie too, would he. Yerimie wasn’t a ‘regular’ S-rank Hunter either, after all. Should I ban him from coming near the Rearing Facility and Haeyeon Guild outright, perhaps.

“Occasionally, there are situations where an ordinary individual who has taken notice of their potential schemes to use them for their own ends, under the guise of taking them under their wing–in the majority of those cases, they end up being killed by the ‘Alpha Primes.’ They are not beings suited to being tamed, after all. As far as I am aware, your dongsaeng is the first to be so.”

And all of them had died by fifty years of age, far before any hopes of reaching a hundred, said the Young Chaos. 

“Being spurred only by the instinctive nature of their affinity and lacking any sort of ‘desire,’ it is inevitable that they perish sooner than later. Your dongsaeng is different from them, however, so do take heart. So long as you endure, he shall do the same as well.”

“...yes, sir.”

Hearing such bleak feedback, I couldn’t help the way my face had automatically crumpled in anguish. Seeing this, Chaos regarded me with a peeved expression. 

“Always going on about that dongsaeng, each time you open your mouth.”

“I can go on for three days and three nights straight if necessary, sir.”

“And what of yourself, pray tell.”

“Me, sir?”

As far as ‘my story’ was concerned, well.

“I’m just trying to do the best I can, sir.”

I’d wanted to live diligently while raising my dongsaeng, sir, only to end up royally fucking things up. So now I was just trying to keep from screwing things up a second time. That was all.

“I’m just doing my best.”

“Aye.”

“Elder, sir.”

After gazing down at Yoohyunie for a moment, I raised my head. A face that bore an uncanny resemblance to Yoohyunie entered my field of vision. He wore an aloof expression; but he was looking at me, all the same. It was only the third time I’d ever met with him. But still. 

“Can I trust you, sir.”

“That is something for you to decide.”

“Why are you going out of your way to help us like this, sir. Because you are going out of your way, sir.”

“I simply find myself flabbergasted to see such a weak, feckless young thing crawling haplessly along, with nary a thought given to how its flesh is being stripped along the way–that is all.”

“Then, you’re helping us because you find us pitiful, sir?”

Being pitied was fine. As far as a blow to your pride from being pitied was concerned, you needed to be alive in the first place to feel something like that, after all. Even if he was extending his offer of help because he viewed us as poor, unfortunate souls, I would gladly welcome any such assistance. 

“Do you think yourselves the only wretched existences in the universe, perhaps. Nay–I offer my aid simply because you have caught my eye, brat, and because I wish to do so.”

Chaos patted my head lightly, once more.

“That is all.”

The hand that had been resting on my head slipped down, and briefly brushed against Yoohyunie’s cheek. As he did so, my dongsaeng’s eyes, which had been closed, slid open.

“...hyung?”

“As soon as you return, see that you admit your hyung to a hospital.”

Hearing the Young Chaos’s words, Yoohyunie suddenly straightened from where he’d been resting his body against me, as though he’d been splashed with cold water.

“A hospital, sir?”

“Aye. Potions and healing Skills will only serve to act as poison to him, so refrain from the administering of such things, and have him recover through means that do not utilize mana.”

“Is there anything else to remain aware of, sir.”

Yoohyunie inquired seriously. He’d just been knocked unconscious by him just moments prior; yet, it didn’t seem as though he held even a trace of animosity towards him.

“Prevent him from depending on those things on a normal basis as well, and merely see to it that he eats and rests plenty. The Eldest may be out of the question, but you, Second.”

Contemplatively rubbing a clean, hairless chin with one hand, Chaos regarded Yoohyunie with narrowed eyes.

“What say you to coming under my tutelage.”

- - - - -

(1) 매일생한 불매향 - 

supplemented with sonnet 116 to drive home the tone/nuance behind the original traditional poem referenced in-text; the emphasis is placed on the ‘true’ and ‘unchanging’ nature of yoohyunie’s love/unending devotion for yoojin, even in the face of hardship/yoojin potentially abandoning him

(2) hanja

(3) 1, 2, 3

more subtext/plausible deniability notes i’ve been putting off…

so yoojin refers to chaos as ‘어르신,’ which is a respectful way of addressing older individuals:

어르신 → ‘elder’ 할아버지(grandfather), 할머니grandmother) 영감님 → dated way of referring to older gentlemen

it plays into the way geunseo-nim highlights certain character relationships with specific title choices, e.g. the way yerimie chooses to refer to yoojin as ‘아저씨(ahjussi→’mister’)’:

because as i’ve noted before in a footnote, it informs how yerimie views herself as an ‘outsider’ in the han family, and also reinforces how ‘yoojin+yoohyun’ are still considered a ‘set/family(=/=kin)’ within the Han household throughout the entire series, even with ‘yoohyunie+yoojin+yerimie found family’ being a Thing:

+ch614 footnotes on the significance of spending christmas together with someone

because although yermie’s becomes part of the Han household, what’s stressed with her is ‘her eventual independence’, juxtaposed against yoohyunie’s role to ‘always be by yoojin’s side’:

ch342

the ‘highlighting certain character relationships with specific title choices/manner of address’ also manifests in other ways, like how sung hyunjae and song taewon interact. but as for why ‘how yoojin speaks with chaos’ matters in this context, it’s because the way he addresses chaos is a half-step away from being read this way:

by the way, did i mention that a large part of yoohyunie’s gap-moe is how he’s very ‘maidenly/pure/chaste’ (à la luò bīnghé)? (yes)

https://books.google.com/books?id=16WJCj00QvkC&pg=PT141&lpg=PT141&dq=plum+blossom+Shin+Heum&source=bl&ots=T00ASMNHQb&sig=ACfU3U148XXgxXaWKDib4eyGP8QsugFiig&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjnxdOT8p_7AhWumWoFHYERAVUQ6AF6BAgsEAM

anyway–veeery interesting, considering chaos’s particular connection to yoohyunie.

Q) i’m aware that he takes after the young chaos due to the primordial fire’s influence, but does that mean han yoohyun doesn’t outwardly resemble his ‘parents’ or other relatives? A) because the ones who made the physical vessel for him do exert some influence, it can be thought of as ‘young chaos + han brothers’ parents,’ approximately. when han yoohyun had just been born, he resembled the parents a bit more, but as he grew and his fire attribute became stronger, he began to resemble the primordial fire and the young chaos more. however, the parents’ influence does remain, so that’s why he still hears things like how he’s ‘different from han yoojin, but still bears some similarities, as befitting of brothers’ ^^ part of it is that, as the young chaos’s race is close to east asians, he ended up growing to resembling him even more. if the species or race had been completely different, then he probably wouldn’t have resembled the young chaos as much as he does at present.

+ another interaction of note that happens this chapter is chaos ‘reassuring’ yoojin the same way sung hyunjae had done previously as a 'parental' figure, which also echoes the interaction when yoojin asked yerimie if she would permit him to be her guardian when they first met, way back when:

no wonder sung hyunjae and chaos get along, huh:

+(Q&A)

Q) irinie mentioned that fire shouldn’t be stifled, because it transforms when it’s suppressed; since the 24y.o. yoohyunie in the dungeon had not only changed from a black flame (흑염) to a black blood flame (흑혈염), but also became instilled with poison, even after reconciling with yoojinie, would he be able to recover his blue fire (청염) still? A) as drawing forth one’s own natural affinity is a difficult task in itself, no matter which han yoohyun, so long as a han yoojin with a caretaker title is not by his side, even after rising to the rank of a transcendent, he would only be able to earn his blue fire after a very long period of development. however, as the flame would have died out before long without han yoojin becoming his world, consequently, that outcome is effectively an impossibility ^^ the reason the primordial fire was incapable of finding a fire to succeed it for that long period of time, was for a similar reason. the closer it is to being a ‘pure’ flame, the more likely it is to be snuffed out before properly maturing. as the han yoohyun(24) within the dungeon has han yoojin(29) by his side, he is capable of fostering blue flames. however, as the han yoojin within the dungeon has the lesser ‘caretaker’ title, the effect will be far diminished than that of han yoojin(25)’s, so it won’t be an easy task. because of that, rather than erasing the black blood fire to revert to a blue fire, there’s a higher likelihood that they(2429) will choose to mature the black blood fire further instead. 

+(Q&A)

Q) then, did the parents take care of yoohyunie too, instead of ostracizing him? or did they only provide yoojinie with food to eat and clothes to wear, and it was yoojinie who made sure that yoohyunie got to eat and was properly dressed? A) they didn’t go out of their way to prepare meals for him or the like, but made sure there was plenty of food available^^ because han yoojin was too young back then to take care of himself, much less his dongsaeng, if the parents had completely forsaken them, it would have been difficult for either of them to survive. the brothers’ parents didn’t harbor ill intent towards their children. to be precise, they simply wished to divorce themselves from any meaningful connection with the two. as their desire to avoid reality was so great, rather than attempt to either abandon or kill han yoohyun, they opted to maintain the status quo instead. with rice left in the rice cooker and side dishes stockpiled high in the refrigerator, the parents would either stay out of the house or go about their life as though the brothers didn’t exist. because it would draw scrutiny if they wore misfitting clothes, han yoojin was bought clothes of an appropriate size and han yoohyun would typically wear his hand-me-downs. starting from the time han yoojin was in middle school, rather than having his things bought for him, he was instead given a generous allowance that would allow him to acquire necessities such as clothes, shoes, school supplies, etc.; han yoojin used that money to buy his dongsaeng clothes as well. as the parents had been unsparing with money spent on clothes when han yoojin was younger, until about seven or so, there was no issue with han yoohyun only receiving his hand-me-downs. if only to assuage their feelings of guilt, they made sure to take good care of their basic necessities, and han yoojin would console himself through rationales such as ‘mom and dad love each other too much, and that’s why there’s no room left for me and yoohyunie’

+(Q&A)

Q) what were some of the things that you thought were important, when writing an entity that’s far from being human?  A) (about han yoohyun) only, as han yoohyun isn’t ‘a lifeform concerned about continued survival(self-preservation),’ he’s an outlier even among the non-human entities ^^ in polar opposite to the ones mentioned above, his natural disposition is to completely disregard the surrounding environment. the sole exception for that flame was han yoojin, and accordingly, han yoohyun only experiences change through han yoojin. no other environmental factors or beings are capable of influencing him.

+(Q&A)

Q) with gyeol-byeol-seol, have there been any routines or habits the children or yoohyunie have fallen into over time, from yoohyunie frequently looking after them by himself? since, when there’s a parent etc who gets specially designated as the primary caretaker, they automatically end up developing habits/routines with each other; i’m curious if something of the sort might have formed between the babies (gyeol-byeol-seol) and yoohyunie A) as han yoohyun is simply carrying out rote actions in accordance with han yoojin’s instructions when it comes to engaging in childrearing, he doesn’t end up forming any ‘habits’, as a consequence. since, for han yoohyun, the concept of ‘forming a habit’ is contingent on han yoojin’s immediate presence, in a scenario where han yoojin has stepped out of frame, there are no new ‘biological’ or ‘humanistic’ directives being generated for him in that state. in the first place, he’s not one who is given to conforming to any sort of set ‘pattern’, per se. at present, it’s closer to being a situation where he’s ‘diligently repeating the mannerisms he’s learned from han yoojin’ ^^ on their side, the children are currently being indoctrinated into accepting a structured, stable lifestyle pattern as a byproduct of han yoohyun’s exacting approach. as, in addition to the distinct lack of an emotional base(foundation), han yoohyun is given to displaying little to no reaction by default, han gyeol finds this aspect of him difficult to contend with. though he’s perfectly aware that ‘uncle(samchon) is just like that,’ as the most emotionally sensitive of the three children, he still gets dejected about it from time to time. even so, thanks to bak yerim and han byeol’s combined influences, he’s doing well enough–still, he’s the one who’s waiting the most anxiously for han yoojin’s homecoming. periodically, he’ll unload/confide to peace about ‘my difficult life’ and ‘when will appa be coming back’ and ‘the hell is sung hyunjae even doing’, and other such sundry matters. han seol doesn’t hold any particular interest towards han yoohyun, and han byeol is unfazed by how taciturn samchon can be. rather, his inclination to simply stoically corral and calm her down in an unperturbed manner after she’s gone zooming around and caused accidents, actually seems to make him quite well-suited to looking after her in a parenting capacity.

+(Q&A)

Q) then, would it be possible now for han yoojin to surpass 180cm in height? with everyone around him being 180~190cm, he’s the only smol one… (dainty..) since the puppeteer was able to surpass 180 too, would yoojinie be able to do grow over 180 as well? is it impossible? how many years would it take for him to finish growing all the way..? A) if he takes good care of his health while honing his abilities, it would be possible to see physical growth once he leveled up in rank. if, for example, the young chaos sticks to his side to personally oversee his training, he would probably be able to clear 180 easily within a year. if han yoojin is left to his own devices, and nothing out of the ordinary happens, saying that he’s busy enough raising the kids, he'd probably remain at the same point even after 10 or 20 years. at the very least, han yoohyun or bak yerim will force him to take care of his body. irin, who wishes to increase han yoojin’s lifespan for han yoohyun’s sake, will likely come to stick close to him in a supervisory capacity

+(Q&A)

Q) how did soyoungie and sung hyunjae’s first meeting go? A) kang soyoung ambushed (barged towards) sung hyunjae and asked him if he was a dragon, and sung hyunjae felt entertained by her. the interest was short-lived, but as dragon riders are a rarity to begin with, and the way the a-rank didn’t shrink back in front of a born s-rank gained his approval, sung hyunjae ends up extending a scouting offer to her first.

+(Q&A)

Q) i was curious as to whether there were any special ‘episodes’ that occurred over the course of sung hyunjae’s many lives? though sung hyunjae may not be able to remember them, but if there had been a life that he was particularly fond of, or something like that.. i’m curious about the different lives he may have led~ A) aside from his life pre-capture and the ‘freed’ life he leads at present, there weren’t really any lives that he saw as being particularly ‘special.’ he wouldn’t consider any particular lives he led while captured to be more ‘special’ than the others, as each of them were simply ‘a time where sung hyunjae was alive’ ^^ notably, as someone whose core values has always revolved around ‘himself,’ for him to consider any event to be truly special, it would have had to have been something that was ‘an occurrence that was novel to me’; but those lives were merely a time when the entity known as ‘sung hyunjae’ was manipulated to enact another’s will. ergo, he may have travelled across many diverse worlds, but as far as sung hyunjae’s personal situation was concerned, things had remained static all the while. this is why the life he leads at present–i.e. over the course of the novel–where han yoojin and song taewon exists (as the ones who ‘returned his life to him(yj)’ and ‘can see to its end/allow him to die(stw)’) is the one he considers to be the most special to him. when it comes to ‘the kinds of things(episodes) that happened previously,’ there are various stories. from the very beginning, in the post-war period following his time as sigma, crescent moon would usually arrange for him to take up station above others. similar to how sigma had quickly established himself as the leader of solemnis, for example. then, in order to have him go through a wide range of experiences, she would occasionally slot him into ‘ordinary’ stations as well. but as he’d always naturally rise to the top in short order, he never really encountered any hardships, per se. the time where he first learned how to cook was when he was ‘planted’ as a regular family restaurant-owning couple’s offspring. in that life, the father was so repulsed by sung hyunjae that he attempted to kill him, then fled after failing, once he was overpowered; the mother, too, was unable to view him as ‘her child’ either, but pressured by the absence of her husband, nevertheless ended up relying on sung hyunjae to fill the void left in their workplace–and upon seeing the effortless way he quickly picked up on and flawlessly executed every task given to him, at least manages to accept him as an ‘outstanding chef’ instead. because ‘cooking’ was a novel venture for sung hyunjae at the time, he was quite proactive in his studies. afterwards, the mother comes to consider that perhaps ‘he might be an angel sent by the god of cooking, and that is why he exudes such a disconcerting feeling,’ and so comes to reconcile sung hyunjae’s existence in such a way. still, there have been occasions where he has had to serve someone of a higher position; but as the ones stationed above him would either come to find his conduct displeasing and endeavor to force him to fall in line, or find him threatening or otherwise unnerving, such arrangements usually didn’t last very long. in order for the relationship to manage to endure, it was necessary that a distance be maintained between him and them, e.g. that he be sent far away, to a remote location.

re: ‘this is why the life he leads at present–i.e. over the course of the novel–where han yoojin and song taewon exists (as the ones who ‘returned his life to him(yj)’ and ‘can see to its end/allow him to die(stw)’) is the one he considers to be the most special to him.’

volume 13 extra: business trip

+(Q&A)

Q) i wanted to ask if my understanding of what happens when sung hyunjae gets planted(?) is correct! sung hyunjae mentioned that the method crescent moon seemed to utilize was to extract an individual with a similar ‘(existential) value’ from the world, and then to swap him, as ‘an existence outside of the world’, with them; just like yoojinie had wondered, i’m curious who that person who was found worthy of ‘exchange’ with sung hyunjae might have been, and what had happened to that individual! additionally: if the ‘swap’ is made via the method of ‘granting a wish’–then, for sung hyunjae’s parents, who had wished for a child, when sung hyunjae was suddenly ‘planted’ on earth in a fully-grown state, were they forcibly reprogrammed to register him as a child they had raised from the beginning? A) by erasing sung hyunjae’s memories and concealing his accumulated power, crescent moon was able to disguise sung hyunjae’s existential value(존재 가치) as being low-ranked. ordinarily, this wouldn’t be possible, and it’s extremely delicate work besides; but as an artificial Source who had amassed a considerable amount of strength, since there were no existences who could serve as an ‘equivalent’ to sung hyunjae, this was her only recourse. because his existential value was in a lowered state, sung hyunjae was able to be ‘planted’ through exchange via the wishes made to crescent moon. the wishes differed from world to world, and aside from wishes for a child, there were wishes for a hero in a time of war, someone with particular talents, an exquisite beauty, a leader of the herd, etc. as well. their wishes did come true, but they usually didn’t play out in the way they’d hoped for ^^ re:sung hyunjae’s parents, it was a case of a child who previously hadn’t existed suddenly appearing, where they were nevertheless compelled to believe that they had raised him to begin with. but because of the repugnance they experience due to his ‘other-ness,’ in addition to the natural repulsion caused by a born s-rank, the resulting cognitive dissonance caused them to spiral mentally.

+(Q&A)

Q) was sung hyunjae’s household well-off to begin with? if so, how wealthy are they? A) they were well-off enough that they could afford to send their son overseas to study, in addition to hiring a highly competent butler^^ as, around the time that sung hyunjae began to gain a proper foothold and become more active, they had already relinquished to him his designated inheritance, seeing him live well, they were able to relieve themselves of the guilt associated with abandoning a child. though they still want to maintain a personal distance from him, as they are able to think of him somewhat as ‘their son’ with the physical distance in place, they have a relationship where they will occasionally call one another to exchange pleasantries. they currently live overseas, and hope that sung hyunjae will continue to fare well, without occasion to turn his attention towards them.

+(Q&A)

Q) it appears that vantus took on the responsibility of raising sung hyunjae when he was young; since he still seemed to present as a born s-rank even back then, how was vantus able to keep from being afraid of him and treat him as a ‘young master’ instead? is it because vantus is an awakened of a relatively high rank as well? additionally, when sung hyunjae is ‘planted,’ do the people close to him still experience a sense of repulsion? A) vantus recognized sung hyunjae as an entity that he needed to serve, as a being of a ‘higher’ order than himself. a large part of the reason the parents experience a sense of rejection towards their born s-rank child is because of the cognitive dissonance brought on by the conflict between the feeling of ‘something that should be their child, and ergo a being dependent on them’ simultaneously feeling like ‘something of equal or even higher rank than themselves.’ because vantus approached it as him being of a different ‘race’ altogether, his sense of repulsion was lessened, and he in fact comes to serve him in the same zealous manner a religious fanatic might ^^ sung hyunjae makes an excellent leader, after all, and the stronger the leader, the greater the sense of security instilled in their followers also. in the same vein, there are many people in seseung guild who pledge absolute loyalty to sung hyunjae for the same reasons. however, while sung hyunjae will certainly take care of those who display such obedience to him, he would never consider them to be equals.  aside from his parents, everyone else registered him as ‘someone who had always existed.’ the sense of repulsion exuded by a born s-rank would have affected them as usual.

+(Q&A)

Q) i was thinking about that time sung hyunjae recommended to han yoojin that he grow a beard! does yoojinie have an easy time growing facial hair? A) his facial hair grows fairly sparsely, and soft besides, which makes it easier for him to shave ^^