#Fragrance Discovery Set

[krystalfragrance]

Exploring the Luxurious World of Jovoy Perfume

Immerse yourself in the opulent world of Jovoy Perfume. Indulge in the intoxicating blend of exquisite scents that captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. Discover the artistry behind each meticulously crafted fragrance. Elevate your sensory experience with Jovoy Perfume. Experience luxury like never before. You can reach us by visiting our website or calling (406) 407-3797.

[julietsbb]

Chapters: 16/? | 62k WiP Fandom: Thai Actor RPF, เพื่อนายแค่หนึ่งเดียว | Never Let Me Go (TV 2022) RPF, We Are คือเรารักกัน | We Are (Thailand TV 2024) RPF Rating: Mature (borderline E at this point) Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Pond Naravit Lertratkosum/Phuwin Tangsakyuen Characters: Pond Naravit Lertratkosum, Phuwin Tangsakyuen, Jojo Tichakorn Phukhaotong Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Vampire, Canon Universe, vampire!Phuwin, Biting, Blood, your regular vampire tropes, they’re pretty chill and integrated into modern society though, set during never let me go filming, count on the rating most likely going up in later chapters, Other Additional Tags to Be Added, Power Exchange, Dom/sub, Kink Negotiation, except they really don't know that's what they're doing..., Slow Burn, Kink Exploration, Masochism, Sadism, Praise Kink, Under-negotiated Kink, mild sub/top drops, Frottage, Kissing Summary:

“My mum says,” a beat, “that it really would be best if I instead just had someone. That I could feed on. A little. Just while I was a bit too far away from our regular supply.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah.” A pause. He continues, “Mum says it’s not a big deal.”

[mynamesdrstuff]

orok fragrances and lore perfumery are following each other on instagram. which could mean nothing.

[five-seasons-parfums]

Men's Fragrance Discovery Set by Five Seasons Parfums

Discover a new favorite scent with the men's fragrance discovery set from Five Seasons Parfums. This curated collection features a variety of scents, from fresh and clean to deep and woody, allowing you to sample and find your perfect match. Ideal for any man who enjoys exploring different fragrances, the men's fragrance discovery set is available for purchase online.

[boys-fashion-123]

MTJ Himalayan Inspirations

MTJ Himalayan Inspirations Fragrances

MTJ Himalayan Inspirations are not just fragrances; they are mesmerizing adventures for your senses. Each bottle encapsulates the essence of the Himalayas, inviting you to explore the depths of their olfactory beauty. These scents are dynamic, bewitching, and elegant, just like the Himalayan landscape itself.

Discovering the Notes

Before we delve deeper into the captivating journey of MTJ Himalayan Inspirations, let’s explore the olfactory roadmap that these fragrances offer. Just like the Himalayas themselves, this collection is layered with complexity and mystery.

Top Note:

The top note of these fragrances welcomes you with the crispness of cedar and juniper, reminiscent of the lush Himalayan forests. It’s then gently caressed by the sweetness of black currant and the zesty freshness of mandarin orange. This initial burst of scents sets the stage for the adventure that follows.

Middle Note:

As you journey deeper into the heart of these fragrances, you’ll encounter the captivating middle notes. Cardamom adds a hint of spice and warmth, while green tea introduces a sense of calm and tranquility. Patchouli weaves a rich, earthy thread, connecting the scents with the Himalayan soil.

Base Note:

The base note, the final chapter of this olfactory tale, leaves a lasting impression. Musk imparts sensuality, while sandalwood adds a creamy, woody depth. Oak moss, a classic base note, contributes to the fragrance’s longevity and complexity.

Three Enchanting Journeys

Now, let’s embark on the aromatic adventures of the three distinct fragrances within the MTJ Himalayan Inspirations collection.

[sunnybeachcouture]

LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL The Discovery Set

New from Chanel is the LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANELThe Discovery Set New for 2023 Summer is the LES EXCLUSIFS DE CHANEL The Discovery Set. This includes 18 Les Exlusifs De Chanel fragrances and the plus the Gentle Oil Hair and Body. I love this set. Its a great size for display and allows us to try out so many beautiful Fragrances. These fragrance samples are very difficult to get I’d say impossible.…

[lymtw]

Birthday Shenanigans

What business do you have outside of bed—outside of Toji's arms—so early in the morning, on your day off? It never feels right to wake up without you by his side, but today, it feels worse to wake up alone. He's been sleeping on his side of the bed for hours, staying warm, yet, at the discovery of you missing beside him, he almost gets whiplash with how quickly it feels like he's been tossed onto a bed made of snow. He's freezing, and you're to blame. There's a heaviness in his chest that only worsens as he drags his hand back and forth over your side of the bed. None of your warmth remains, meaning you've been gone for a bit. You couldn't have woken him up? Today is supposed to be about him, yet, all he wants to do is spend the whole day with you.

Once Toji fully wakes up, he sits up and prepares to go to the kitchen to fix himself some breakfast. A sticky note that is stuck to your pillow grabs his attention. He peels it off your pillow and takes in the simplistic drawing consisting of two stick figures resembling you and Toji, lying in bed, kissing. This already brings a little smile to his face, but when he reads the caption written in your handwriting-- (Since we didn't get to share our morning kiss, please enjoy this renaissance painting I made of what I think that would've looked like <3) --he lets out a small chuckle and folds the sticky note, before putting it away in the first drawer of his nightstand. He puts on a shirt and some sweatpants and leaves the room, not even bothering to make the bed.

As he's walking past the front door, it aggressively swings open and scares the hell out of him. You're there with your hands and arms riddled with bags. Grocery bags filled to the brim, a few bags from some clothing stores, and one smaller bag from a fragrance store. You have a small box in your hands with the logo of the bakery that is a few streets away from the house.

"Oh, hi, baby! Happy birthday," you say, standing on your tippy toes, which Toji understands as the signal for him to lean down a little. You place a quick peck on Toji's scar, and before he can get a word in, you run off to the kitchen, not even closing the door behind you. Toji shakes his head with a grin and shuts the door, before going after you. He silently watches you scramble to put the bags down in an organized manner. You set the small box from the bakery and the groceries down on the kitchen counter, while the other bags are temporarily set down on the ground.

"Hmm... Oh!" You grab the small box and the pack of small striped candles and take it with you to the counter by the sink. You carelessly rip open the pack of candles and open the box, smiling when you see the single, chocolate flavored cupcake, decorated with a blue flower made of frosting. All is going well, until you can't find the lighter that is usually in the drawer you store the dishrags in. You lift all of the small stacks of towels and can't find it anywhere.

"Where could it be?" You mumble to yourself.

"What's up, ma?" Toji asks, curiosity getting the better of him when he sees you continue to rifle around the drawer, clearly in search of something.

You sigh, defeatedly, and shut the drawer. "Turn around, please."

Toji does as you say and turns around, not wanting to stress you out. He has a feeling this is something for him, too, so he wouldn't want to ruin whatever it is you have planned.

You put the cupcake on a plate and grab one of the blue and white striped candles, taking it with you to the counter by the stove. You turn on the stove and put the candle wick to the flame, watching it quickly light up, before turning the stove off, again. You put the candle on the cupcake and slowly make your way over to Toji, who is leaning on the opposite side of the counter, facing away from you like you asked him to.

"Baby," you call, smiling when his attention goes to you before it goes to the flame you are indirectly holding. He smiles softly at the small pastry you present to him. "The lady at the bakery tried to sell me a cupcake with a red rose and I told her, 'no, he likes blue'. Then she still tried to sell me one with a sunflower on it and I said, 'no, it has to be blue'. So, look, I got you a cupcake with a blue flower, baby. Their specialty is definitely flowers, because I promise you, that green cupcake did not look like a Stegosaurus." Toji chuckles at the rambled, silly recap of your experience at the bakery. "Now, make a wish, before the wax melts and gets all over it," you say, holding up the plate for him.

Toji's gaze remains set on you as he mentally makes his wish. He looks at you for a long time, long enough for the blue and white wax to start dripping down onto the cupcake. A few of those seconds were spent just thinking, because what is there to wish for when he has everything he needs? A home, a job that pays the bills and puts food on the table, something to get around in, and best of all, an unlimited source of love and support.

Then, he knows it.

He considers who you are to him. You lit up his life, again, and he can't wait to spend all the years to come, with you. Because of his big, beefy, tough guy appearance, he knows it would give you a good laugh if he ever told you that being around you makes fluttering little butterflies flood his stomach. He'll say it out loud to you someday, just to hear you laugh. Frankly, you deserve it, because before you, he could count on his hands the amount of times he had laughed so hard and for so long that his stomach felt sore. Being around you has turned it into almost a daily occurrence, and all he can wish for is years, decades, and the appearance of grey hairs and wrinkles with you.

You laugh. You laugh at how he ignored your warning about the candle wax, you laugh at the utterly soft look on his face. You feel giddy as you watch those green eyes of his, tracing your face and taking in every feature on it. Like anybody who can't read minds, you wonder what he wished for, even when you know it's something that is never meant to be said out loud.

Before you can even process it, the candle is blown out and the plate is being taken out of your hands and placed on the counter. Toji wraps his arms around you and pulls you in close enough to rest his forehead against yours. He knocks his nose against yours a couple times, a gesture that lures an unfaltering grin onto his face at the sound of your giggles.

"You're the best, doll. You didn't have to--"

You shut him up, instantly, with a kiss. It's soft and warm and delicate. It's everything that he loves about you, wrapped up in the sweetest touch.

"Yes, I did. Don't even, my love," you assure, smiling as you rub his chest. "I'm so lucky to get to celebrate you, baby. I love you, and i'm happy you're here. Those two reasons are enough on their own for me to willingly wake up at five in the morning and run around store to store like a headless chicken, so I could get home before you woke up. Clearly, you had different plans," you say, reciprocating his smile. Your hand raises to cup his cheek and your thumb strokes his soft skin, tenderly. "All of this is from me to you. Please, let me show you how much you mean to me."

It didn't take much convincing. Toji was on board the moment you killed his denial of these extra things being necessary to celebrate another day of living, another year of getting older. Your trying little kisses don't hurt, though. If this is your way of begging to show him extra love—by showing him extra love—then who is he to reject your affection?

"Please, pretty please, please, pleaseeeee, please-"

"Shh, baby." His index finger goes over your lips. He smiles at how obedient you are—birthday treatment. Normally, whenever he does that, you try to bite his finger in a playful manner. "I woke up alone in bed this morning. That kinda sucked."

"I'm sorry," you say, against his finger.

"I liked your renaissance painting," he says, a smirk forming on his lips when he feels a breath of a laugh from you on his skin. "Couldn't help but feel a little jealous that a few scribbles got more lip locking action, first thing in the morning, than I did." He sighs, almost like he's wounded by the remembrance of reaching for you and being met with an empty space. "How ever will you make it up to me?" His finger slides down your lips, causing the bottom one to bounce back after he pulled it down.

"I'll give you all the kisses and a bonus kiss." You nod, proudly, at your offer.

"Mhm, that's pretty good so far. What else?"

"What else do you want? I'm up for anything today."

You don't miss the movement of his hands on your waist, subtly maneuvering so that his fingers lift your shirt the slightest bit, allowing him to graze your bare skin. The glimmer of mischief that almost immediately appears in his eyes and the unfaltering smirk on his face, make it so that it's not necessary for him to word what he will eventually want to do with you. Your face goes warm at the thought, but you just laugh it off.

"Do you know what time it is, right now?" Toji asks, more to chide you for being out of bed so early, than for the purpose of knowing the time.

"Almost eight, no?" You take your phone out of your pocket and check. "Seven thirty," you confirm, showing him your screen.

"It's seven thirty in the morning, ma. What are we doing awake at seven thirty in the morning, on our day off?"

"I was on a mission, I don't know about you."

He scoffs. "Oh, kill that. You do know about me."

Simple. Toji doesn't like sleeping without you. He likes knowing you're getting your rest next to him and he loves the ongoing, intimate, physical contact. Even if he's not full on spooning you, he's always touching you. Whether it's his face buried in your chest, his legs tangled with yours, his elbow digging into your back or even his head pressed into your shoulder, he's always touching you.

"Let's go back to bed," he says, placing a peck on your forehead, before resting his chin on top of your head. "Just for a little longer."

"You don't want breakfast?"

He shakes his head, in response. "I want you to sleep with me."

"I can make something quick," you insist.

"Do I have to throw you over my shoulder and drag you away?"

"No, sir," you say, with mock seriousness. "I'm going." You wiggle out of his hold and barely manage to take two steps, before you feel his hand swat at your ass. You gasp, dramatically, and turn around to look at him, your widened eyes being the most prominent feature of your surprised expression.

Toji snickers, unable to stay serious when you look at him like he did something life altering to you. "Run. If I catch you, we're staying in bed all day."

Nothing else needed to be said for you to start sprinting towards the room. You've been awake since five in the morning to ensure that these celebratory plans are followed through with, properly. You can't stay in bed all day, so it's a good thing Toji didn't chase you to the room.

Once Toji slides into bed and finds your body under the covers, he completely encompasses you in his hold. His front is flush against your back, his arm strewn across your waist, and his face is pressed to the nape of your neck. He's made himself comfortable, having gone as far as to slightly overlap your leg with his. It doesn't take very long for Toji to fall asleep this way. You're his own personal cuddle bug and the reason he sleeps like a hibernating bear every night, down to the brief snoring he makes you endure before he wakes himself up with the loudness.

You wake up a few hours later, pulling Toji out of sleep as well, because of all your movement. You smile when he grunts and buries his face in your chest, in an attempt to go back to sleep.

"Was that not enough time?" You ask, running your fingers through his hair.

"Mm-mm," he hums, quietly. He's starting to move around more, mostly pawing at you to keep you close, so you don't leave him.

"We have to get up soon. We slept through the rest of the morning," you say, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. The tenderness of the gesture just makes him want to stay in bed with you for longer.

"Mm," he hums, once again, the sound coming off as dismissive.

"Sounds like you don't want your morning-turned-afternoon kisses, before we get up. You would rather stay asleep, huh?"

Now, that grabs his attention.

He moves away from your chest and just stares at you with his sleep ridden eyes and a pout that you know he would deny is a pout if you mentioned it.

"Oh, you're awake. I knew it," you say, with a teasing grin. You know he's ready when his eyes keep flitting between your eyes and your lips, silently signaling to you what he wants. "Alright, alright. Don't yell at me," you jest. You lean in and press a quick peck on his lips, then another, and another, until it's quick bursts of kisses that make him want to laugh. "Come on. Keep up. You know I try my hardest when you do this to me."

As if he's insulted by your taunting, he rolls on top of you and traps you beneath him, returning all your kisses while you're distracted, laughing at the sudden crushing weight of his body on yours.

"Keep up," Toji throws at you, this time, in his slightly raspy voice. "Come on, kiss me back. Keep up," he repeats, not even giving you a chance to respond before he's back to smothering you, again. He laughs when you end up surrendering, welcoming defeat by just lying there in a giggle fit. "It's like... a million to nothing, ma."

A few more giggles flow past your lips, your smile lingering once you somewhat collect yourself. "Best million to nothing ever. I'll get you, tomorrow." You don't promise or swear it, because just by looking at his face, now, you think you just might lose, again. You have a very strong feeling about it.

Toji simply gives you a low "mhm" and smirks, confidently, because he knows that you will be in this position, again, tomorrow morning.

"Well... now that you're awake, we can finally leave the bed." Toji's reaction to that is the most dramatic groan ever, but when you tell him that he can stay in bed while you "do stuff" in the kitchen, he refuses and follows you. It's great, but he almost makes you burn the food a couple times.

"Toji- Baby." You laugh, when he clings to your back and buries his face in your neck. "Go sit down and eat your cupcake."

"Mm-mm. Saving room for you," he mumbles.

"You're so..." You can't even finish the sentence, the shaking of your head and the curl of your lips doing wonders to reveal your flustered state.

"Romantic?" He asks, pressing a kiss to the side of your neck, as if to give you more proof. He smirks against your skin when you freeze, like you're lost in thought. "Keep stirring, mama," he says, grinning when you snap out of your very brief daze and stir quickly to make up for your lack of focus.

"You're gonna make me burn your food," you chide. You reach behind you with your free hand and try to push him back, but he doesn't budge.

"Nah, nah. I'm looking out for you," he corrects.

You turn off the stove and turn to him. "Listen. You're a very handsome distraction, but you're going to make me burn the entire kitchen down if you keep doing what you're doing."

"Which is?" He questions, standing right in front of you. He loves how easy it is for him to have you cheesing.

"Being romantic. You know what you're doing! Stop being cute," you say, pressing your lips together to stop yourself from giggling and egging him on.

"Just say you need my help, pretty," he says, his voice and the placement of his hands on your hips, indicating that there's a double meaning to the sentence. For now, you choose to ignore the one that doesn't involve cooking.

"Okay, then. Help me wash, peel, and cut the potatoes, please."

It's hard not to laugh at his reaction—the quiet 'tsk' sound and the subtle twitch of his lips. He looks like he was expecting you to stop cooking, to take a brief intermission with him. The disillusioned look on his face is quickly traded for an expression that says 'i'll get you'. It's a smirk and something feral hidden in those dark eyes.

"Sure thing," he replies, squeezing your hips a couple times between his enormous hands.

You would think having help in the kitchen would expedite the process of getting things done, but it was the opposite when it came to Toji helping you out. If he's not distracting you, he's distracted by you.

Instead of finishing the task you gave him, he turns around and watches you cut vegetables like it's one of the most interesting things he's ever seen.

"Damn, ma. Look at you go," he says, watching the smooth, back and forth motion of the knife you are using and listening to the consistent, rhythmic sound of the blade on the cutting board. He's mesmerized—you make it look like art.

You put the knife down, unable to contain your laugh when he keeps watching you. "Almost done, Toji?" You ask, turning to look at him.

"Yeah, yeah," he responds, before turning around, again.

Somehow, after all the pauses and distractions, and the swatting at Toji's hands when he would pick at the food, claiming multiple times that he was doing a taste test, the food was finally finished.

"The house smells fucking amazing, doll. We did that," Toji says, coming up behind you and wrapping his arms around you as you finish washing the cutting board.

"We did," you agree, grinning at how proud he is of the results of your conjoined efforts. "How does it taste?" You ask, washing the dish soap off the cutting board.

"Perfect," he murmurs, in your ear. "Not as good as-"

"Don't say it. Don't say it." You turn off the water and turn to look at the menacing smirk on his face.

"-you," he finishes, without hesitation, and almost instantly, you smack his chest, earning a chuckle from him. "What? You don't wanna be my dessert?"

"Oh my god, Toji," you groan, walking away from him to grab some plates.

The cupcake you got him did not go to waste. You both had one of those 'I need something sweet' moments, once you finished eating. After a couple more eye rolls from you towards his suggestive remarks, Toji being the kind soul he is, shared the dessert. He took one enormous bite of it—bits of candle wax and all—and then gave you the rest. It definitely hit the spot, and watching Toji get frustrated every time he asked if his lips and teeth were still blue, has become one of the many core memories you have with him.

"Gifts?" You ask, drying your hands after washing your plate and putting it away.

Toji sighs. "What did you do, ma?"

You smile at him, mischievously, and beckon him to come with you. You pick up all the bags you left on the floor and lead him to the couch, where you set them down. The second he sees how many bags there are, he shakes his head, and you know what he's thinking—'you didn't have to'. It's written all over his face, so in an attempt to steer away those thoughts, you rub his chest, like you did before, and smile.

"Open them."

For someone who was iffy about receiving gifts, he sure went through the opening process quickly. After pulling out the paper tissue you awkwardly fluffed and placed in each bag to hide what was in it, he scanned what was at the bottom of each bag before pulling the items out as well. Shirts, pants, gym shorts and sweatpants, a new coffee mug—he inspects all of the items, closely, with a soft smile on his face.

"Everything else is in black, why the navy blue jacket?"

"You look hot in navy blue."

Case closed.

"Oh shit. What is this, doll?" Toji asks, picking up the smaller, gift bag with the crispy, bold font on it. This gift in particular caught his eye, because it's something he knows for sure both of you like. You watch with a beaming smile as he pulls out the blue box, a low chuckle leaving him when he reads the name of the elegant cologne. "Remember that time you said just sniffing this would get you pregnant?" He asks, as he rips the plastic covering off the box and opens it, bringing out the even more elegant looking bottle.

"Yeah, you have to stay away from me if you're gonna wear that. From here to the kitchen, that's the distance you have to-"

The fragrance lands like mist on your face. It immediately overpowers the smell of the food you and Toji made, and fills your nostrils with the manliest, sexiest, most perilous scent you have ever smelled. It has your heart racing. It's Toji. You smell it and all your thoughts lock in on him. Toji, Toji, Toji, like a siren blaring in your head.

"How you doing, mama?" Toji asks, grinning fiendishly at your stunned reaction. "Smells real nice, huh?"

You stop buffering and take in the teasing smirk on his face. This would be the second time, today, that you look at him like he did something life changing to you.

"We should go to the beach," you suggest. You're calm and collected on the outside, frenzied and bouncing off the walls on the inside. A trip to the beach sounds good.

"That's random. Why do you wanna go to the beach?" He asks, putting the cologne back in its box.

"Let's catch a sunset and get you out of the house for a while," you elaborate. "Do you really want to spend the whole day in here?"

"I do wanna spend the whole day here," Toji responds, stepping towards you. "Just me and you, relaxing in bed together. Doesn't that sound way better than the beach?" He asks.

You can't even pretend like he's wrong when he looks at you like that. Like going outside after getting so comfortable and reveling in the warm atmosphere created in your home, would be worse than when he woke up alone in the morning.

"Let's stay here and keep each other warm," he says, pulling you into him. His arms act like vines around your waist, tightening to keep you close.

"Sure," you respond, a soft smile on your face as you look into his eyes. "We can stay inside."

When Toji leaned in to peck your lips, he really considered turning it into another competition to see who could get more kisses in. He was going for another win, aiming to overpower you with speed and quantity, to end it the way he always does—smothering your entire face with kisses, while you laugh through your sweet defeat—but when he felt your fingers drag over his back, right before you balled up his shirt in your hands, he decided to mind your gentleness and reciprocate it. He even smiled into a few of the kisses, to settle down the urge he felt to laugh, because he could smell his cologne on your face.

Toji took your hand and dragged you with him to the bedroom, once he broke the kiss. There, you spent your time cuddling, kissing, talking, and making love, each act done separately, but just as easily melted together into one act. You even got to see your sunset through the bedroom window, with your cheek and your hands pressed to the glass that kept fogging up.

By the end of the day, you were both spent, but still remained inseparable—not even a shower called for being apart. When it was time to go to sleep, you kept your face buried in Toji's neck. You pressed so many gentle kisses to his skin, while mumbling quiet, sleepy 'I love you's, that he hummed in response to, when he was't tiredly saying it back.

[ceilidho]

I’m starting to warm up to Santal 33 actually……I keep thinking about dill and dirty martinis and I took another sniff today from my sample and I was like wow. I kind of like this actually.

also I got Glossier Doux for Xmas and it smells soooooo good, although unfortunately no glossier fragrance will ever be as good as the original You formula :(( I wish they’d bring that back.

now I have to decide if I want to get the Aesop or le labo discovery set (or Fantome or Stora Skuggan, haven’t decided) and then I’m off perfume until I actually USE UP what I already have.

[blessed-by-umbral]

Violence

@daily-writing-challenge

Topic: Violence

---

Weeks had gracefully slipped by since Baetylus embarked on its voyage to the enchanting shores of Tural, and now, four days had passed since the intimidating vessel had anchored in this unfamiliar haven. The air was thick with the scent of adventure and the promise of discovery, a curious juxtaposition that enveloped Ondrea Cress in a cocoon of anticipation. The strangeness of being enveloped by the unknown was not a source of trepidation for her; rather, it was a vital embrace, a welcoming that whispered of new beginnings and uncharted paths waiting to be trekked.

The passage of time had woven a tapestry of curiosity as the allure of uncharted lands beckoned from the shadows of the past. Those privy to the secrets of the sea had embarked on a meticulous endeavor, crafting maps and devising plans for their ambitious voyages. Yet, for Ondrea, this pursuit appeared to be a futile exercise, akin to embarking on a grand expedition without the slightest hint of direction or guidance. It was only when a reliable course was presented to them, a beacon of certainty amidst the vast unknown, that they finally set their sails toward the horizon.

On this afternoon, the sun reigned supreme, casting its golden rays upon a canvas of immaculate azure. The heavens were devoid of any clouds, creating a breathtaking expanse that seemed to stretch endlessly. Yet, in the depths of her heart, she harbored a profound disdain for the sun. The relentless heat was an unwelcome companion, transforming her midnight tresses into a sweltering burden, while the sensation of her leather attire clinging to her skin felt akin to a serpent ensnaring its unsuspecting victim.

The accoutrements of freshly squeezed fruit juices was a welcome reprieve, as a particular concoction of citrus we dutifully set upon a table before an open window overlooking a breathtaking view of the lush greenery interspersed with the architectural elegance of the nearby buildings.

As the echo of a knock reverberated through her space, it disrupted the serene equilibrium she had cultivated, drawing her attention with an intensity that was impossible to ignore. Ondrea's signature style, a blend of shadowy hues and intricate textures, spoke volumes about her character; she embraced the darkness not merely as a fashion statement but as a shield against the world’s judgments. The aura of mystery that enveloped her was both a source of intrigue and trepidation, ensuring that she remained an enigmatic figure, cloaked in the very essence of her chosen attire

As Ondrea opened the door, she was greeted by a visage that resonated deeply within the annals of her family. Cormac, a steadfast presence since his youth, stood before her clad in his signature ensemble—sleek, armored leather adorned with a distinctive bell sigil prominently displayed on his chest. This emblem, a testament to his unwavering loyalty and dedication, seemed to shimmer in the soft light.

It was evident that Cormac had taken the time to present himself with an air of refinement, embodying a sense of readiness for the day ahead. His hair, meticulously groomed and freshly washed, framed his face, which bore the marks of a recent shave.

Ondrea couldn't help but notice the subtle yet inviting scent of coconut that lingered around him, a fragrant whisper of tropical allure that seemed to complement his polished demeanor.

"My Lady." He addressed with a bow of his head. "All men are accounted for. Our ships are docked and being tended to as we speak. It's been recommended that we tip the service crew. I wanted to get your input."

Ondrea retreated a step, extending an invitation to Cormac as he entered her sanctuary. In stark contrast to his presence, the air within her abode was devoid of the exotic fragrances that characterized this new land; instead, she had meticulously chosen to fill her space with the familiar aromas of incense, carefully selected from her homeland. The delicate tendrils of smoke curled upward, weaving a tapestry of nostalgia that enveloped her, reminding her of of home.

Though she found herself amidst the unfamiliar, the longing for the essence of home lingered in whatever vestiges were left in her heart.

"Extend to them a generous gratuity, one that would comfortably sustain their needs for the forthcoming weeks. Should their circumstances demand further assistance, we shall delve into our reserves to accommodate their requests."

Cormac acknowledged the suggestion with a subtle nod, his gaze drifting toward the window. The vibrant calls of exotic birds echoed in the distance, their persistent cries resonating like a siren song, beckoning him to embrace the allure of this uncharted territory.

"-We've gotten word from some of the locals regarding some concerning news. Like many lands, they're wrought with bandits, enemies, those who would seek you out to cause you harm or your family harm simply because of your status. These warnings you're familiar with. I ask you now, Lady Cress---how would you like to proceed if met with violence?"

The interval stretched between them, enveloped in an almost palpable silence that seemed to linger in the air. In this serene yet charged moment, the only sounds that penetrated the stillness were the distant echoes of the bustling city below, a symphony of urban life, harmonizing with the sharp cries of seabirds soaring overhead.

"My father once said: "Violent excitement exhausts the mind and leaves it withered and sterile." I find it ironic, considering the means this House has taken in its past. Perhaps, in some way, he sought to extinguish that flame."

She paused without contemplation, but more so for effect. "Our words are "Light your candles". Keep them lit, guide the dead home, tolling of the bells--all that history you're intimately familiar with."

"Aye." Cormac affirmed.

"To preserve equilibrium in our interactions, it is essential to respond to hostility with an equally assertive stance. Those who seek to embody this principle to its utmost will find themselves confronted with a response that is magnified tenfold, ensuring that the scales of power remain justly aligned. This approach not only safeguards our interests but also serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to resilience in the face of adversity."

Cormac found himself unable to divert his gaze from Ondrea's striking visage, captivated by the intensity that radiated from her. It was no revelation to him that her response would carry such weight; in fact, he had secretly wished for the tempest of turmoil that raged within her to find some semblance of calm.

Yet, he recognized the futility of such hopes, as the storm seemed to only grow more ferocious with each passing moment. She stood before him, a living testament to the void, and he could almost perceive the dark tendrils of it wrapping themselves around her very essence. Despite the overwhelming nature of the situation, he felt an unyielding determination to engage with her, to reach through the shadows that enveloped her.

"Might it be possible..." he ventured cautiously, "...that extending a measure of mercy could yield positive outcomes? We are in uncharted territories, after all, filled with diverse cultures and unfamiliar customs."

Ondrea's response was immediate, her thickly shaped brow arching in skepticism as a low, dark chuckle escaped her lips, reverberating with a chilling resonance.

"Do you truly think they would entertain such notions about us?" she retorted, her voice laced with a steely resolve. "I refuse to gamble with the safety of our people."

Cormac drew in a deep breath, savoring it before exhaling sharply through his nostrils. "So be it. Violence will be met with violence."

[baravaggio]

okay I actually have more to add. when I was a kid I was obsessed with this book called house of the scorpion where the main character was raised not knowing he was a clone and only found out when the people he thought were his family tried to kill him and harvest his organs, and I remember this making me so upset I'd cry super hard every time I read it in the backseat of my dad's car (while he blasted radiohead and wilco lol)...and I wasn't upset because I was scared, it was because I felt like creating an artificial person as a means to an end only to dehumanize them so viciously was like the one of the worst things you could ever do. and since then I've always reacted that way to media about androids or robots or cyborgs who have come face to face with their lack of humanity and suffer because of it it....like I don't cry over it in the car anymore but it still makes me feel deeply sad you know

anyway that's why I think this one feels so wistful to me lol, as I put my nose to my wrist and start to smell more metallic, musky synthetic skin than clean citrus and light florals it makes me feel like the illusion of humanity is gone and I have to come face to face with it every time I smell myself....not to sound crazy but this is crazy

oh she’s an odd one…I feel like this is what it would smell like if an an android woman wore perfume. super creamy citrus at the start that fades into a metallic skin. it’s not unpleasant though and is actually more fresh than I expected. breezy and futuristic. it’s hard to make comparisons because it’s not like anything I’ve ever smelled before, but to me it evokes a sense of distance that makes it feel a little lonely and a little melancholy idk…I’m def feeling the robot existentialism

[krystalfragrance]

Du Bois Perfume Unveils Timeless Fragrance Collection

Introducing Du Bois Perfume, from Krystal Fragrance. Experience an exquisite blend of scents with our Timeless Fragrance Collection. Immerse yourself in a captivating aroma that transcends time, leaving a lasting impression wherever you go. Discover the essence of elegance and sophistication with Du Bois Perfume.

[crowandmoonwriting]

Writing tip: Explorer Mode!

(Loosely based on Assassin's Creed's Discovery Mode)

Starting off a first draft? Not quite happy with your wording or the starting scene? Inclined to jump around the plot? No idea what the plot is, or who the characters are yet, but still determined to write?

Use Explorer Mode! Your story is an adventure in and of itself, and you are Indiana Jones in the Temple of your Creativity. Write notes, scenes, memes, character motivations, bits of poetry or prose from books or media that inspire you, doodle in the margins, but write. Draw a map from one scene to another. Document your journey, even where you fall into a plot hole full of snakes. You are here to find the story, not make a finished project. It's not so much a first draft as it is a draft zero.

How to switch into Explorer Mode:

It's best to have a dedicated journal to wreck, but you can use whatever writing software you like. Some recommendations: Obsidian, Notion, Campfire Writing, and World Anvil.

At the top of the page, write Explorer Mode, and use it as a header or footer for each page if you have to, to remind you.

Keep it loose. You don't have to keep anything you write in here, but try not to discard anything. Whatever you have might be useful for writing the first draft later, or laughing at with friends.

Make it multimedia! If it's a physical journal, decorate it, draw on it, paint on it, add stickes and fancy scrapbooking paper, pretty washi tape, whatever you like. Cut out pictures from magazines, or tear out pages from old books. Don't be afraid to get messy with it.

Music, music, music! Definitely write down some playlists, or put in some links if you're using a digital journal. Write down the actual names and artists of the songs, however, and when you listen to each one, take notes. What character or scene might this relate to? Who would sing it? What lyrics inspire you? When you close your eyes and just listen, what do you picture in your mind's eye?

Involve the senses! There is nothing so evocative for the memory as scent. Scent your journal, or your pages. Add in a perfume, a fragrance oil, and lightly dab a page. Make a small envelope for a sachet of spices or a scented bit of gauze. What does the scene you're writing smell like? If you're working digitally, write down the notes of fragrances, or which candle you'd like to burn while writing this scene. You can do this with taste, too. Have a few dedicated recipes, if you like to cook, or places to eat that remind you of characters, settings, or plot points. What are your characters' favourite foods? Their comfort foods? For more on food and worldbuilding see my post here.

Get crafty! Make artefacts from your world or story. Embrace other art forms to realise it in your own world. Once when I was taking a ceramics class, I made a series of cups, goblets, and tea pots in the style of one of the countries from my high fantasy world. I love to see them and hold them, and imagine my characters having items just like these (or pretend that these are the real items they used). Sculpt, sketch, make delicate jewellery, sew clothes or a quilt, look up some fun DIY projects on YouTube that might relate to your story or character's interests and give it a go! Remember this is an exploration, so these crafts don't have to be perfect. It's a good idea to have something physical to do, something that you can do while listening to your story playlists, something you can accomplish while you daydream.

And that's about it! Take breaks from Explorer Mode whenever you like, to either actually start work on the first draft because you now feel more confident and comfortable with it, or just to chill and not think of anything for a while. That's important too. Most importantly, have fun! This is art we're making here, and we are artists, but we are also archaeologists, anthropologists, scientists, historians, and explorers of every kind.

Now go out there and have an adventure!

[valerieeei]

“Tangled Petals”

genre: fluff, romance

synopsis: In a charming flower shop, Tighnari, an expert florist, encounters Y/N, a frustrated customer seeking a passive-aggressive message in flowers. Through carefully chosen blooms, Tighnari crafts a bouquet that conveys their emotions. As Y/N continues to visit the shop, a deeper connection begins to bloom, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and unexpected love.

In a serene corner of the bustling city, nestled amongst vibrant streets, stood a quaint little flower shop owned by none other than Tighnari. With his green thumb and passion for all things botanical, he greeted each visitor with a warm smile and an exquisite selection of blooms.

One sunny afternoon, the delicate chime of the shop's bell announced the arrival of a visitor, Y/N. They stormed in, with a determined look on their face and frustration etched in their eyes. Y/N approached the counter, hastily slapping twenty bucks onto it, catching Tighnari off guard.

Without wasting a moment, Y/N looked Tighnari straight in the eye and said, "How do I passive-aggressively say 'f*ck you' in flowers?"

Tighnari blinked, a mix of surprise and amusement crossing his features. He leaned forward on the counter, studying the bundle of emotions before him. His voice, velvety and calm, responded, "Well, my dear customer, we don't typically encourage negative messages in the language of flowers, but I think I understand what you're looking for."

With a gentle, understanding smile, Tighnari began gathering an assortment of blooms. Each flower carefully chosen for its hidden meaning, he crafted a bouquet that would convey Y/N's frustration. Vibrant orange roses symbolized a mix of passion and intensity, while thorny snapdragons hinted at their prickly emotions.

Tighnari's fingers danced gracefully, arranging the flowers with precision, and he added a touch of fiery red carnations, representing rejection and disdain. Finally, he tied the bouquet together with a black satin ribbon, symbolizing strength and resistance.

Presenting the carefully crafted bouquet to Y/N, Tighnari offered a sympathetic gaze. "Here you go. Though these flowers may represent your feelings of frustration, remember, they can also serve as a reminder to rise above negativity."

Y/N's expression softened as they accepted the bouquet, realizing the deeper message conveyed through the arrangement. "Thank you," they whispered, their voice tinged with a mix of gratitude and newfound insight.

As they turned to leave the shop, the tension in the air began to dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of understanding. Y/N glanced back, catching Tighnari's eye and offering a genuine smile of appreciation.

In the days that followed, Y/N discovered that Tighnari's flower shop became a place of solace, a haven from the chaos of the world. They found themselves returning to the shop time and time again, not just for the enchanting blooms but for the gentle wisdom and understanding that Tighnari provided.

And thus, amidst the delicate petals and subtle fragrances, a beautiful connection began to bloom, intertwining their lives and setting their hearts on a journey of growth and unexpected love.

[cleolinda]

(It is, in fact, a perfume)

Juliette Has A Gun: Not A Perfume (2010)

(newly-arrived “discovery set” sample)

I’ve wanted to try Not A Perfume for years; it’s supposedly one single base note that smells different on everyone. Thus, the real allure is, omg what does it smell like on me?

I will preface the rest of this by saying that perfume is a special interest for me, particularly reading about it. As such, I have read a lot about components, and I even have a wishlist of aromachemicals I’d like to huff for myself. And in theory, Not A Perfume would be a chance for me to smell Cetalox.

Allegedly, that’s all this is: “A fragrance made out of a single element called Cetalox. Usually used in perfumery as a base note, it plays here the lead role... Another advantage of this particular composition, is that it is entirely allergen free. The result is minimalist, elegant, pure,” says Juliette Has A Gun’s website.

“An extremely powerful and elegant amber note. Usage: Cetalox® gives rich, elegant effects to all areas of perfumery from sheer florals to modern ambers,” says The Perfumer’s Apprentice, a component supplier I stare at for hours like it’s the Sears Wish Book.

But a Fragrantica article claims,

In addition to cetalox, Not A Perfume obviously contains musks (galaxolide and helvetolide), iso e super and hedione. Together they create a slight floral effect, as if you washed the bed linens with an expensive conditioner with a white flower composition and hung it up to dry on a sunny summer morning.

(For what it’s worth, a commenter on that article says, “According to Dr. Philip Kraft (Scent&Chemistry) of Givaudan - Not a Perfume consists - 7.5% Cetalox along with Hedione, Iso E Super, Ambrettolide, Habanolide, Musk Ketone, Ethylene Brassylate & Boisamberene Forte.” Subsequent googling indicates that this seems to be widely known.)

Like, I don’t plan to do an aromachemical deep dive on every fragrance I talk about, but it seems kind of conceptually relevant here, you know? And I’m willing to believe Not A Perfume is something more floral, musky, and fruity than one (1) synthetic amber, because that Fragrantica description is very much what it smells like on me: dryer sheets. A strong but nondescript white laundry floral. Well-behaved yet loud as hell, like a six-year-old in a Sunday dress with the best of intentions. I sprayed this business into a tissue and barely touched it to my wrist; it gave me a headache within 15 minutes. It did not wash off after four hours. (Modern white musks—like, say, all those (-)olides—are used in dryer sheets and laundry detergent. They repel water; that’s why everything but the detergent scent washes out of your laundry, so I already knew I was probably fucked.) On me, it isn’t terrible, but it sure ain’t “an elegant amber.” My guess is that one note yelling at me in particular is the hedione: “An elegant, transparent floral, jasmine note with a citrus freshness,” known for its “radiance.” It’s been widely used in fragrance since the 1960s, and I’m wondering if it’s why “perfume” in general—in the ’80s for sure—gives me headaches. Goddammit, hedione.

So, dryer sheets. That’s my quiz result. What’s everyone else’s? In Fragrantica user reviews, there is a dizzying range: sour, green, “a fairy sweating,” gasoline, antibacterial hospital soap, “crystalline funk,” animal musk, rubbing alcohol, plain water, nothing, rotting garbage, wet cigarettes, wet burnt cigarettes, dried blood, Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue, ghosts, sandalwood, wet cardboard, metal, salt, and pears. Among many other things.

It smells like dryer sheets, and I do not want to wear it again.

I mean, I might. Actually, it smells kind of nice now that I’ve washed it off—oh, hey, I’m getting the pears now. Maybe Not A Perfume would play different in hot weather. I’ll pick some day to schedule a headache and see.

[maiteo]

which perfumes have you been eyeing or are on your wishlist rn🌹

when i tell you this is a never ending list...one that im constantly adding to, adjusting... all that! but yeth i can name a few🫶🏽

both Moon Glory and Sun Fortune - The Harmonist

both Odette and Odile - Gumamina. the former ballerina in me NEEDS these. real bad!

Blanche Bête - Liquides Imaginaires. this whole brand is soooo me, impossible to decide which scent i want tbh...will be getting a discovery scent very soon!

Aylan - Day Three Fragrances

The Etat Libre D’orange discovery kit

Sakura Snow - D'Annam

Hinoki Fantôme and Flor de la Virgen - Boy Smells

Kasbah - 19-69

Hexensalbe - Stora Skuggan. the person who introduced this to me told me I'd love it because "its dark and witchy" yeth sign me up!

Venom of Angel - Piotr Czarnecki

Choux Choux - Liis

Warm Bulb - Clue Perfumery

Studio Scent - Kismet Olfactive

Opera - Xerjoff. when I say MEEEE! iykyk

Orebella discovery set - all the scents interest me and luckily i saw there was finally a discovery set out there...will be picking that up! supporting a fellow libra...thee princess of nazareth mhm!

[mtndewbajablast]

Hello! id say im sorry about assaulting you with notes but im not. Actually you got me super interested in fragrances lately(and i was goin thru your blogs for reviews) i esp like the Zoologist line. im enamored with the idea of fragrances telling stories(so ive also been looking at the Imaginary Authors line too) Would mind sharing some more fragrances/lines that you really dig right now?

you actually caught me on a day where i wore a zoologist perfume >:3c (squid is soooo good)

ANYWAY ive been working through the etat libre d’orange discovery set and my feelings are all over the place (mostly positive) but they are very evocative it’s something eldo does well!

blackbird is my all time favorite but moto oud specifically transports me to being broken down in an old car in a southwestern desert. mizuchi is also a favorite it reminds me of a steinback novel, central californian in a beautiful but sorrowful way. if that makes sense

the strange south has been on my mind as I finish out their samples…. I think they capture the southern gothic theme they go for very well :3 !

also I have been waxing poetic abt it for a bit now but abduction by the eyes are always there is an EXPERIENCE, one I recommend everyone try a sample of at least. this caught my attention bc of my lifelong interest in ufology & it did not disappoint. I can’t wear it if im having a bad mental health day bc it puts me on edge 😭 but it is an olfactory experience it’s otherworldly and unlike anything ive smelled before