#Historical Merchants' Hall

[postcard-from-the-past]

Merchants of the Central Market Hall of Paris

French vintage postcard

[iguanodont]

Introducing a new birg culture, and the reason the Twowi go to such lengths to cross the icy equator with their cargoes of rare metal and pungent gall-spice. The Ss’wassoum are a wealthy empire based on the far southern coast, where the sea-ice melts more quickly in the spring and its people first built their wealth on the sea-harvest. Their language is heavy on harmonized syllables, which lends their speech a distinctive musical quality. Family units are smaller than the fiercely clannish Twowi, and the gender divide is less rigid, though still distinctly matriarchal. Some of their most lucrative raw exports are refined tree-plastics and sea-silk, which is valued for fine textiles.

While the Twowi run on highly specialized industrial clan-towns, the Ss’wassoum exist in more diverse cities, though the class divide is impossible to ignore. The nobility are loud of dress and voice, with their ornate refined plastic head-dresses, vividly patterned veils, and resonators worn over the rear spiracles to enhance their voices. But despite all the attention they draw to themselves, their faces are always covered; to be perceived as gray-furred mortals akin to any commoner is inconceivable. They walk the streets as living demigods. Just below the nobility are the merchant class, which may approach their influence in wealth and education but are legally barred from the elaborate headwear and home exteriors of their superiors. Instead they adorn the insides of their homes with the latest in art and technology, particularly elaborate electric light fixtures crafted from imported Twowi metal. Commoners wear little at all in the sunny months, save for the occasional beaded sash and brass mandible-cuffs. Sailors and other hard laborers frequently adorn their bodies with scarified and dyed patterns to mark themselves for the goodwill of protective gods.

The Ss’wassoum government does implement a standardized education system of sorts, though only those of the upper class can test or pay their way into the finest schools, where they can master the high dialect and the art of Opinion. Historically, etiquette laws forbade the discussion of controversial topics in public spaces; these were reserved for halls of judgement. The rule is more of a social taboo these days, but an ancient loophole ruled that written forms of debate could be presented anywhere, and with the subsequent invention of movable type, a colorful written debate culture flourished. Wherever there is a public bulletin, a cafe wall, a blank space where people gather, you fill find posted essays on anything from the hypocrisy of the noble class to a long winded treatise on the merits of toe-biter clams. It is not uncommon for a debate topic to outlive the original essayists, as hills are chosen to literally die on are then proudly upheld by the writer’s descendants. So ingrained into Ss’wassoum society is this debate culture, that committed debate rivals may be legally recognized as a marriage-like partnership. Though the Ss’wassoum carry no expectations of monogamy to a reproductive partner, the correlation between rivalry and mating season partners does not go unnoticed. As a general rule, a worldly and strongly opinionated individual is more attractive.

Big thanks to @primalmuckygoop for pitching so many great ideas for these guys, including most of the lore on their debate culture, and the very name of this civilization!

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[sugawhaaa]

SEONGHWA X READER

{Chapter 2}

Treasure

Warnings::I think guns are mentioned like once/Sexually and mentally abusive relationship!!!!

Pairing::pirate!seonghwa x princess!reader

Genre:: pirate AU

A/N::I literally started writing this RIGHT after I finished the first chapter bc I'm so addicted to this story 😭 I'm sorry this chapter is kinda boring but I promise it's important to the story and we'll get to the juicy stuff soon

Taglist:: @hi-kariii @deltamoon666

Reminder‼️this isn't 100% historically accurate and should be taken with a grain of salt. This story is also set in the late 1800s to early 1900s specifically in Europe but if you want you can imagine it wherever else you'd like, it is a fictional story after all 💗 this story also takes some inspiration from pirates of the Caribbean, specifically the first movie.

Part 1:

You wake up bright and early feeling refreshed and recharged. You sit up and stretch your necklace moving up with the movement of your shoulders. You look down at your necklace and remember what happened with Seonghwa yesterday. You pick up the accessory off your neck to look at the bottom of it. An hourglass with blue sand on the inside. You flip the charm upside down and watch the sand fall. 

You look over at the clock by your dresser. The clock reads 6:39 am. You stretch and put a robe over your nightgown. You fetch your maid and she helps you put on a simple and slender dress. You need a simpler dress to wear to the children's school because a big dress is too much of a hassle. You finish putting on your dress and open the door to see your Fiance in the hallway. You look back at your maid confused but she's busy cleaning your clothes. 

"Prince Herrington?" You call out in a confused tone. Herrington turns to look at you and smiles. You approach him and he kisses your hand elegantly. "What are you doing here?" You ask as you notice maids and merchants bringing in luggage into one of the guest rooms.

"Well since I traveled halfway across the country to ask for your hand in marriage I see no reason to go back to my kingdom just yet," he explains as he holds your hands. You watch as the merchants bring in more luggage. "I'm going to be staying here with you until we get married," he states as he lets your hands go. 

"I see," you hummed and forced yourself to smile. 

"Aren't you delighted my princess?" He asks as with his arms behind his back and his chin up high, looking down on you again. 

"Yes, we will have much more time to talk to one another this way," you look at him with a smile.

"No, no, dear," he cuts you off. "I'll be doing work. You will be doing whatever women do," he nods before laughing loudly. His laugh echoed throughout the castle. You swallow your anger and force out a soft laugh. 

"I shall be going now," you nod, leaving the scene quickly to go to the children's school. 

"Oh, by the way, I've assigned soldiers at the door to accompany you when you leave the castle. That filthy pirate will never come near you again, any pirate that is," he grunted before continuing his business. You went downstairs to the main hall and there they were. Two soldiers by the doorway. You approached them carefully as they held their guns to their chest. 

"Must you accompany me to the school?" You ask nervously.

"Yes, princess. We were ordered to accompany you anytime you step out of this castle," one of the soldiers speaks without even looking at you before opening the door and letting you step out. 

The walk to the school was quiet and boring. The tension between the two men ruined your aura anytime you waved to a citizen. Instead of them smiling and waving back they'd bow as you walked by. As you walk down the street you see the merchant from yesterday, painting as he awaits customers. You look between the fruit table and the painting table. That's where Seonghwa had his body pressed against yours, his wrist in his hand, his eyes down your dress. The soldiers kept marching you towards the school as you relive the memories.

Eventually, you arrived at the school and got to see all of the lovely children. At first, they were intimidated by the soldiers but once you told them they were there to protect everyone they got comfortable. You then followed through with your usual schedule, telling stories, dancing, and painting with the children. 

After you had finished dancing the children asked you to sing. You were taken aback by their request. "You want me to sing?" You asked in a childish tone. "I don't know," you sighed dramatically. The kids only got more riled up. "Alright, alright, what do you wish for me to sing?" You asked as birds flew by the field. 

"Come into the garden!" One of the kids called out excitedly and you obliged. 

"Come into the garden, you're lucky I know that one," you say as you stand up off the blanket on the grass. You clear your throat and begin to sing. The kids surprisingly listen well and some sing along. By the end of the song, it was time for the kids to eat. You say bye to each of the children giving them pats on the head or a kiss to their forehead before they leave to the dining area. You sigh and fix your hat. You turn to the soldiers with a blank expression. "I would like to stop by a few merchants on the way back to the castle please," you say as you adjust the bottom of your dress. The soldiers nod and lead you out of the school field. You wave to the teacher before leaving back to the streets. 

You stop by a few shops as you walk back, taking your time to appreciate each stand. You stop at a bread bakery and buy two loads of bread and request a basket to carry them in along with the next few things you'll buy. 

"Of course princess," the baker says as she hands you the basket. You thank her before leaving with the bread, the soldiers following close by. You continue to shop around and end up buying more than you had entailed. After arriving home you put away the goods in a safe place. You now had to decide whether to paint or go outside again for the rest of the day. Until lunch at least. 

[Time skip]

You sat straight in front of your dinner. Your fiance sitting next to you as everyone prayed. You then were finally allowed to eat your long awaited dinner. It was full course and stocked with lots of delicious flavors. The meat was cooked perfectly to your liking and the temperature was just right. Herrington on the other hand couldn't disagree more. 

"The meat is way too overcooked and there's hardly any flavor in any of this," he complained with food in his mouth. You took a deep breath and swallowed your food before cutting some more of the meat. "And it's practically frozen, why is it so damn cold?" He looked up at the maid and she apologized with a bow. You look down at your plate as the rest of the table is silent. 

You looked up at the maid with a consoling look. Despite Herrington whining he was still eating his food, and rather loud. Did this man have any manners? You took a deep breath but your corset restricted your ability to breathe. It also hugged your stomach tightly to the point any food you ate nearly came right back out. 

You set down your knife and wiped your lips with a napkin. Your mother looked up at you concerned. "Is everything alright Y/N?" She asked with dark eyes.

"I'm feeling unwell," you say as you hold your head. The maid instantly comes to your side offering assistance. She helps you up to your room and you ask her to help you undress. She finally takes off your corset and you let out a relieved sigh. She chuckles and hands you your nightgown.

"I cleaned it today," she said as she let you change in private. "I will take care of your dishes," she said before leaving your room. As she went down the stairs you heard her stop and talk with herrington. Soon after you heard a knock on your door and the door opened slowly. Herrington stepped in and closed the door. All he could see is your silhouette behind the curtain. 

"Y/N," he calls out in a calm voice as he walks closer to you.

"Yes," you reply as you finally finish putting your gown on. You close the curtain and he smiles at you. 

"If you didn't like the food you can just say that? There is no need to act sick to run away from the food," he smiles caringly as he strokes your bare arm. You nod and he smirks. "I was thinking, you looked beautiful in the dress tonight," he says as he raises his hand to your cheek, petting your skin softly and your eyes are glued to the floor. "Look at me princess," he says as he lifts your chin. You look at Herrington with tired eyes. "I thought maybe tonight we could mix things up," he said as his hand moved to your lips. Slowly caressing them with his thumb. He kisses you and all you can do is comply. 

"How so?" You look up at him and he smiles. 

"You know what I mean princess. I can take you places you've never been, pleasure beyond your imagination," he explains as he strokes your hair. 

"I'm not really feeling it tonight," you attempt to explain as you look up at him. He instantly frowns. 

"Come on princess," he sighs. "Just me and you, and pleasure," he looks at you with gentle eyes and you shake your head. 

"Not tonight," you retort and he drops his hand. 

"Are you saying no?" He asks angrily.

"That's not what I'm saying, I'm saying not tonight. Tomorrow okay? Tomorrow for as long as you want," you assure him and he sighs.

"Fine," he hissed before storming out of your room. You sigh and sit on the bed. You lay back before curling into a ball, tears streaming down your face as you feel hopeless. You find yourself falling asleep, soon greeted by darkness as you fall asleep. 

A few hours later you wake up and realize how dark it is out. You light a candle and stand up out of your bed. You notice a figure sitting on your stool by the canvas you had painted yesterday. 

"Herrington?" You call out as you rub your eyes but as you approach the figure you realize it isn't your fiance, but a pirate. The man turns to look at you and it's just who you thought. Seonghwa. You gasp and stumble backward. Seonghwa chuckles as you stumble. "W-What-how? When?" You stutter as you come to. Seonghwa stands up and approaches you. He puts a finger over your lips with a gentle "shhh" escaping his lips. 

He takes your free hand and holds it comfortingly. "Your fiance is sleeping next door right?" He asks in a low voice. You nod your head slowly. Seonghwa sighs and blows out your candle. He takes the candle and puts it on the nightstand. "Well, we can't have him hearing our conversation no?" He says as he walks over to your balcony. You follow him curiously and he leans over the edge of the balcony. He pulls a rope off of his waist and ties it around one of the bars on the balcony. He tugs it to make sure it's secure before hopping over the side, holding his body up with his leg. "I'll go down first and you'll follow after okay? If anything happens I'll catch you," he assures you, and your mind races with thoughts.

"You can't be serious," you say in disbelief. 

"I'm serious baby," he says before sliding down. You look over the side of the balcony to see him standing with a smile. "C'mon," he calls out, and your heart races. 

"No way, I can't do that!" You whisper yell to him. 

"Yes you can, I'll catch you," he extends his arms out and you take a deep breath. This is insane, insane, insane. You grab the rope and pull yourself over the side you inch your way down before slipping. You let go of the rope and scream before falling into Seonghwas arms. Your heart racing a mile a minute. You cling to him as you pant. You slowly calm down and look up at him. He looks down at you with a soft smile and endearing eyes. You cleared your throat and jumped out of his arms. You dusted yourself off and looked up at him. 

"Well, what did you want to talk about?" You cross your arms but he just takes your wrist in his hand. 

"We're still too close. Cmon I know a good spot," he takes your hand before leading you to a beach not far behind the castle. He sits down on the sand and you look down at him. He leaned back with his arms holding him up, the wind blowing through his hair. "That feeling. The wind in my hair, the clarity of the air, the smell of the ocean. That's what I live for," Seonghwa smiles before inhaling deeply. You sit down next to him as he basks in the moonlight. 

"Is that what you wanted to tell me?" You ask sarcastically and Seonghwa chuckles. 

"No, no. I just wanted to see you," he smiles at you and you scoff.

"All of this? To see me," you roll your eyes and look up at the stars.

"Do you know how to swim?" He asks abruptly.

"No. Women don't swim," you say as you look at the reflection of the moon on the water. 

"The women on my crew do," he smirks at you before standing up, suddenly undressing. 

"Oh god," you cover your eyes as you hear him take off his belt and vest.

"So dramatic," he rolls his eyes as he puts his hand on his hip. "You think I'm going to strip in front of you?" He chuckles before taking off his boots.

"Strip?" You ask confused by his choice of words.

"It means get naked," he scoffs before extending his hand out to you. You blush before taking his hand. He pulls you up and he looks you up and down. He then takes you to the shore. Your feet in the shallow water.

"It's cold!" You jumped and Seonghwa laughed. "Why are you doing this?!" You say as you pull your hand out of his.

"Because it's fun and you deserve to have fun," he says before pushing you into deeper water. 

"Wait! I can't swim!" You try to stop him from pushing you. 

"I'll hold you, don't worry," he says as he pulls you into his embrace. The water creeps up to your thighs as the waves gently push up against you. You put your hand down into the water and feel the cold wager tingle against your fingertips. "See. It's okay," he says as he holds you close. He treads a bit deeper into the water and you go with him, the water creeping up to your waist. "Now lift up your legs," he says with a smile.

"Why?" You ask confused.

"Just lift them and don't try to hold them up, like you're laying down. I'll hold you," he says as he holds your upper body. You lift up your legs and relax the muscles in your legs and you float a little. Your eyes widen. 

"What? This is crazy," you laugh as you watch your legs sway in the movement of the water. He then lets your body go and you stand up in the water again. You look up at him surprised as the water raises up to your chest, he holds your arms securing you from the waves. He looks up at the moon and your eyes follow. He pulls you close to his chest and you hear his heart racing. 

"Every night on my ship, when I look up I see this treasure," Seonghwa raises his hand up to the moon. His eyes flutter back down before noticing a glow coming from your chest. He looks down to see your necklace glowing as it moves with the waves. 

[himbocoups]

˗ˋˏ Epistolary Yearning ˎˊ˗ | 18+ Only

synopsis: a series of letters, speckled with notes of budding romance and longing, exchanged between a newly married couple separated by seas and the ongoing war the emperor sent his commander to end.

pairing: duke!lsm x reader (gn afab)

genre: epistolary form, historical fantasy, romance | smut

tags: arranged marriage, mentions of a war, dk and yn accidentally invent the concept of planes, two people very much falling in love | degrading, fingering, guided play, honey play, marking, mirror play, pet names, praise, pussy slapping, riding, spitting, squirting…

wc: 5.13k

message from nu: fueled by my love for historical, fantasy, and isekai manhuas. big thank you to my beta readers (@heartkyeom, @aceofvernons, and @multi-kpop-fanfics) for reading when I was playing with the format of this fic + @junkissed with helping out with the syntax for this one very confusing line I wrote. also summoning @onlyseokmins bc I told her I'd tag her once duke!dk was finished <3

himbocoups's masterlist

Letter One - YN

My Lord, 

How are you? I hope your trip is going as smoothly as planned. 

It has been a while since I last heard from you. As Summer comes to a fading end, Autumn threatens to wash the foliage to hues of brown and auburn. And I sit at the library nook beside the window, taking quill to parchment against the cover of a heavily bound book and scratching against blank pages before I can muster the courage to write to you. I do sincerely apologize if this attempt seems strange. 

Though I pity our brief time together, the only things I familiarized myself with are your scintillant eyes. Maybe instead of feeling as dull as the color of nature, I’ll think about how the color is reminiscent of your eyes. Eyes, these beautiful jewels seem to reflect the light through your smile. I can’t help but imagine myself as the last person to see them every night as I lay beside you as we drift off into slumber. Would it be too forward of me to say that the thought of growing fond of you, not just your eyes, is slowly appealing more and more to me? 

However, I do have hesitations as I am left alone to roam these lonely halls in a place so unfamiliar to me. It would be a pity shall I reach familiarity with my surroundings before I become familiar with you. Or even worse, to have you forget your familiarity with me. 

Please be safe for me. Hurry home soon.

Letter Two - DK

My Jewel,

For someone who longs for familiarity, you need not create even more distance between us through formalities. And my love, you need not refer to me as your Lord. Love is all I ask for, as love is what you will always be to me. Albeit, I do find it disheartening to read that you think of me so lowly. I could never forget someone as precious as you, even if you do not believe in your preciousness. 

Nevertheless, I, too, pity the brevity of our time together. Marriage agreed upon through an exchanging of letters by our guardians, now our marriage follows suit in the epistolary form. Yet no descriptive access through penmanship could ever grant the feeling that blossomed inside me and continues to bloom since I first laid my eyes upon you. And on the eve of the third week of our matrimony, I was whisked away to end the war. I do sincerely apologize for my absence. 

On this rocking ship, all I can do is stare into the swirling sea in search of a passing merchant ship with letters to deliver. The birds that soar above me seem to provoke me with their independence, cawing in hearty guffaw at the fact that this poor man can never take flight at any moment back into his lover’s arms - where he feels most at home.

Maybe we should take giant birds instead of ships, soaring in the skies and reaching our destination in an instant. How wondrous that would be. 

But I am an equally lonesome Commander among his squadron, a man who keeps the first letter from his lover in the pocket against his breast and his wedding band around his neck. Just thinking about how you were thinking about me while writing that letter, still thinking about me, conciliates any disarray in my mind. And I promise you that I will make you feel loved for the rest of your life, even if our love is only budding. 

I will lead my men well. Then I will lead myself home. To you. 

Letter Three - YN

My Dokyeom (If it is fine to refer to you in this way),

I do have to admit to my shyness, how my face flushed with heat when you referred to me as your beloved. Your “love”…my goodness, our servants nearly called the doctor over when they saw my state of awe. Although, I do apologize if the language in my initial letter seemed blunt or made you feel even a hint of sadness that I accidentally made you for a man with a cold demeanor. 

You wrote: “Maybe we should take giant birds instead of ships, soaring in the skies and reaching our destination in an instant” in our last exchange. What a preposterous idea! But what a new discovery to find that you are as funny as you are charming. Shall we commission a local alchemist to create potions that magnify tiny sparrows to large ships? Or shall I ditch my archery lessons in exchange for nights in your magnificent library, scouring the archives with the hope to find a recipe to an enlarging potion hidden in a romance novel? 

Oh, how I wish everything could be as easy as depicted in romance novels or that one Opera we went to watch. Days consume me on end. Not in the way in which I consume much of my leisure time by staying in the places we frequented in our time together, but in the way in which time passes by so slowly it feels like the concept of time is consuming me instead. I wish it were you who were consuming me even though I do feel it through your love. Because I, too, keep your letter near me. And I trace over the areas your quill indented the parchment, so much that I sometimes end up smudging the dried ink with my hand. 

I do miss you...even more when everything around me reminds me of you. Because you, who makes silly promises about a budding romance, will also be the receiver of my elementary promise about my slowly collecting love for you. 

P.S. They are close to finishing our portraits. I have yet to decide where they are to be hung. 

Letter Four - DK

My Love,

My Seokmin. Seok. Min. Mine. Beloved. Love. Dearest. Husband. Equal. Anything but Duke, Lord, Commander, or Dokyeom is welcome. How I wish for the day I get to hear my name leave your lips through a soft murmur, laughter, greeting, whisper, and mayhaps even a whine. 

Honeymoon was cut short by my trip across the sea. We are finally on land. In front of me is a crackling campfire whose glow conceals the redness of my cheeks, dappled with jubilance from reading your last letter. 

My dearest shy and humble lover whose metaphoric propositions of love are anything but reticent, I have annotated my favorite portions and circled words that I replay in my mind as a source of comfort. However, like what you did with your quotation of my imaginary bird ship, I must reference a few nuances in your letter that I find interesting. Particularly, I find that you must be careful in formatting your syntax, my beloved — for your way of language is enough to drive a sane man mad. Just think of me: a sane man before I had you and now a man slowly falling madly in love with you. 

Referring back to how time achingly consumes you, your “I wish it were you who were consuming me. Although I do feel it through your love” causes me to quiver in a way that is only shared between two lovers. I am a man whose honeymoon was interrupted by the king’s call, a man who is weeks without his lover, a man who has needs - desires. And your need for me to consume you? I can only pluck it out of context. 

If everything around you reminds you of me, then I must tell you that I hope your reminder does not make you suffer as how I suffer. My love, do you know how painful it was to lay in my bed while the ship continually rocked back and forth? It was reminiscent of our second week together when you decided to mount me in bed, your beautiful opalescent undergarment covering an action so lewd that it could never be named in public. Yet I was a man on a ship with his aching cock in his hand, imagining his newly beloved on top of him who squeezes him tightly as they ride his lap. 

No hand could ever replace the fervor of having you rock me, leaning forward to kiss me down my naked chest while sucking and licking the thin area of skin right above my collarbone. How warmly your walls enveloped my own, squeezing and contrasting with every glide you make. I couldn’t help but twitch in you, trying to hold in my selfishness by grabbing onto your thighs - kneading and feeling the skin fill the areas between my fingers. But you bounced on my lap like a bunny in heat, causing my hands to trail further upwards until they lay on your ass…I wanted to worship you by turning myself into a throne, a marble stand so others could be in awe of you for centuries to come. 

Mouth unable to talk, your kitten drooled onto my lap and coated the surface with liquid lust while you whimpered as I praised you for treating me so well. I scooped the syrup from the maple tap and brought it to my mouth to suck; even now I can still feel your sweet syrup rest on my tongue and swirl in my mouth. Yet there I was on that boat, losing my mind with my hand on my tap. Bed sheets soaked with my sweat, I could only imagine that it was your sweat-glistened skin that stuck against mine. It was but a shame, and still is but a shame, that the image of you collapsed against my chest with exhaustion when your thighs trembled with such a quake only exists as a memory. How long would it take for me to turn the memory of me looping my arms around your back and pushing your upper body against mine, feeling you build and crash through a scream, into our reality? 

The land is no better than the sea. Truly, it must be treason to think such impure thoughts while riding on my finest stallion to head to our base. I am a Commander, a Duke for God’s sake. But the bouncing, the clopping - oh, beloved, my skin pricked with heat so much that I thought bandits were ambushing us. The pain I felt while I waited for my swelling to go down - I am utterly embarrassed to admit I almost released while riding in front of my men. 

How I wish I could come running back home to you. Shall I single-handedly overturn the monarchy so we can be equal partners to the throne? So that we can be rulers who need not leave our estate? Just give me the word, and the empire will be yours. Then I would never need to leave your side. That I guarantee. 

P.S. Hang the portrait wherever you please. Perhaps the ballroom so I would always be with you during the night of the balls. 

Letter Five - YN

My King,

How mad of you to write such vulgarities, to suggest usurping the throne only if it means being able to stay with me. You are a Commander. You are a Duke. You are one of the King’s men. Do you not fear the inevitable consequences that you would face should your letter be opened by anybody other than myself? Do you not fear what would happen to you if your lust-driven joke was wrongly taken for treason? I must say that despite everything, I found myself dipping a finger into your words and listening to my juices sing your letter like lyrics. 

Your words comforted my ache at my core, skillfully fighting fire with fire to extinguish my burning forest. However, if you were to turn into a mere object – a chair, a throne, a stand – I would never be satisfied in your worship. ‘Tis true that I would like to be worshiped by you like the first time your palm cupped my face in private confinement under the shade of the gazebo in the garden. With nobody around us, your face softened to reveal the most beautiful smile I have ever seen. Earnest eyes flittered to and fro as you studied me in awe and whispered words of praise. Up until then, I never even knew you could worship a person such as me. Yet, you, a mere stranger I met a few hours ago, placed a kiss upon my lips as soft as the petals on the flowers that surrounded us. 

If worshipping me means an inanimate you, I don’t think there would be anybody who could worship me with such sincerity and reason as you do…and I quite like the animate you even if the animate you screamed at the bug upon your sleeve. I couldn’t stop laughing then. And when you looked back at me with those bashful eyes, I knew this would be a marriage filled with laughter.  

Laughter, as I have recently learned, doesn’t only exist jovially. No. Reading your comment about my syntax, I almost erupted in a peal of sinister laughter. My poor lover with his cock in his hand and his quill in his other and his attempt to warn someone with such an extensive educational background about their syntax…you are too pure for this world. Should it make you feel better in any way, I have also thought about you in ways such a person in my stature should never. 

The other day when I was particularly distracted by the particular “unease” that had been building inside me, I accidentally launched a practice arrow into the wind. Chasing it, I happened upon our agriculture stables where the young workers sit and milk our cows. I swear, I must have been in such a delusional state to feel such a rush just from watching the motion of our cows getting milked that I ran off to the kitchens without picking up my stray arrow. 

Can you believe it, my dear? Have you been thinking of me differently since I admitted to almost leaking when I saw the cows getting milked? Would you think of me even differently if I told you I thought of you while talking to our ice sculptors? If you can quench my thirst on my loneliest days, I can only imagine what taking you in paired with ice would feel like for both you and me. 

Mayhaps, we should convene in the kitchen at night after the bell strikes twelve when all of our kitchen staff have retired. I want to kiss you with cherry-stained lips, watching tint transfer onto yours as I play with the seed of the fruit in my mouth while I wait for our cups of tea to steep. Kissing, I hope, would act as an analgesic for your painfully sleepless nights. Still, I find it abstruse that a kind, gentle, and good man like you would live such a cathartic life as a commander. Enerverated in every way as I am, I can only offer a somnolent kiss in hopes of luring you to sleep before your tea can fully steep. 

“What is a man without his honey,” you would say. Then I would ask you to specify what type of honey you are referring to. 

You would reply with this cheekiness in your voice while your lips pull into a wide smile, “the syrup.” If I’m not wrong, you would peck the top of my head while you reach over me to grab the jar that the cook keeps at the counter for you to easily access. Because the man with a honeyed siren voice that often procures lullabies for me to fall asleep also has a taste for the pollinators’ syrup. 

As you can tell…we are not simple people. We are not a regular couple. We have exchanged letters for longer than we have physically been together. So when I tell you to close your eyes to try to find your honey, would you? If I blindfolded you with a kitchen towel and told you to search for the dab of honey I swatched on my body, could you do it? Would you go to the lengths just to search for the honey to your tea?

Would you use your nose and sniff along my skin, searching for the floral and fruity aroma? Gently picking up my arm and bringing it to your nose, would you gently guide your nose along the surface of my skin in a position so intimate that you feel my arm hairs tickle the tip of your nose? Would you guide your nose upwards along my arm until you arrive at my collarbone, sniffing and docilely licking areas you think to be as sweet as honey? 

Imploring you in your reconnoiter, I must keep quiet as I watch you blindly explore every groove of the topography of my body. I imagine myself tilting my head towards the side to allow you access to the side of my neck, sharply breathing in as you nose the area in which I am the most sensitive. I see you hesitate for a second before planting your supple lips against the skin as if to sample before making a decision. To your surprise, what coats your lips in a sticky and sweet amber gloss is the honey I placed on my neck slowly trailing towards my collarbone. And I watch you intently as you lick it off your lips, leaving a translucent liquid sheen. 

Affected by a magnetic lure, you would somehow find yourself in front of me, your head positioned right above the slowly trailing bead of honey. It starts with a lick, hot tongue against cold skin. I can’t help but feel how the bumpy texture of your tongue cleans and pulls its way up my neck. After the hot saliva hits cold air, you take off the kitchen towel and look at me like a puppy waiting for its owner. 

“Such a good boy,” I murmur as I take the towel from your hand and wrap it around the nape of your neck to pull you in closer. “How does it taste?” 

What is more, is that I hope that in that moment my heart is not the only one that is beating as fast as how a hummingbird flaps its wings. My greedy husband, you back me against the kitchen island until you are pressed firmly against me as I watch and feel you bite and suck a garden of flowers across my neck and chest. Your large hands find themselves around my thighs, kneading and squeezing them so much that the fabric of my night clothes bunch in the palm of your hands. So I maneuver your hands around my waist, and you spin me around and bend me against that counter so I can feel you push yourself against me. 

“Be good for me,” you would command while undressing me. 

Then I would feel it, hands spreading my legs and fingers prying my ass apart, and then your warm and flat tongue against my kitten. One single lick would make my knees buckle. But you eating me out from behind, the way you knead my ass while you take your time swirling your tongue against my lips and lapping up my juices would make me come in an instant. Your tongue presses against my nub while your nose digs itself into my opening almost to the point where you’re fucking me with the tip of your nose, yet it is me who begs for air. And you keep my liquid on your tongue as you rise from your knees to pull my head back until I’m looking at you and your swollen and burgundy lips with my head tilted backward. 

And you pry my mouth open with your hand and watch me catch that sweet honey on the tip of my tongue. 

My dear, I am much too hot to even think about what comes after you let go of my jaw. My tenses in this letter are all mixed up because I’m so caught up in my delusions that I mistake dreams for reality. I feel ashamed to revert to such elementary composition when I am clouded by lust. But in this sensory game of wits, who do you think would win — the explorer or the explored? 

P.S. I’ve had our painting temporarily hung in our dining room as I cannot even bring myself to think about the possibility of hosting a ball without you. The great ballroom has been collecting dust since the first month you left for the war. Besides, invitations to the first ball of the season have long been sent out. I attended and made some acquaintances. Are you proud of me? Are you missing me as much as I am missing you?

Letter Six - DK

My Sweet,

Loneliness is when you are trapped by your stillness while everything around you splits into two and crumbles. And you are stuck in the open space of where everything once was, you in your bubble of muteness as the world crashes and breaks in a cacophonous roar. The feeling that engulfed me during these past few months was beyond my description of loneliness. So with a happy heart, I am telling you that the war is over. I’m coming home soon to hold you in my arms, to show you what this world that surrounds you is truly like — delicate and with the warmth of a glowing morning Sun that promises juvenescent Springs until the end of time. 

Regarding your question about the potential winner of the sensory game you described in your last letter, whether I am the person exploring or explored, I know I would always be the victor as only a true victor can call you “his.” My sweet love, I hope to stick by your side as long as I prefer honey in my tea and you by my side when I sleep. 

However, with a slightly interruptive transition, I have a few requests regarding the contents of your postscript. That is:

One, I am wholly and with every fiber of my mind, soul, and body proud of you. You, my shyest lover who sought friendship in your moments of loneliness, I love you so. Yet I find myself utterly in distress that I cannot co-host our tea parties until later should you hold one in a few days. Our estate is boring, and it must be tiring seeing the same things and people every day for the past few months. I urge you to go out more and explore so I can come home to plentiful stories told in your voice. I want to fall asleep to your descriptions so I can dream of how you see the world around you. 

Two, of course, I am missing you. Even if I were a few yards away from you, I would still miss you. I am currently bothering our treasurer in regards to spending the rest of our budget on a winter wonderland in which we would freeze the entire world so I could easily and quickly sled back home like a seal off an iceberg. However, our treasurer is insistent on saving the budget for lodging, travel, and sustenance. I, for one, think I am right.

Three, I think this might be my last letter in a while as when this stack of parchments finally reaches you, I would almost be home. So I am struggling between keeping this short and straight to the point or long and thoroughly eloquent with everything that I want to write and say to you. Instead of coming to a conclusion by myself, I bid you farewell until we meet again with this set of instructions within my set of requests for you. I’m sorry if the format of my letter makes it very hard for you to read. Like how you described your delusions, I often find myself alone at night imagining you by my side so much that I feel your physical presence next to me. 

Four, as for our portrait in our dining room, I must ask you to perform a favor for me as I have not seen the finished painting myself. It is a test regarding the “likeness” of our portraits that can only be performed by yourself. When you wish to perform the test before I arrive, please excuse all our staff who stay by your side during dinner and ask to eat alone. Should they give you looks, please say that it was requested by me. 

When you are alone, I need you to get into a position in which you can look at yourself through the large mirror that is mounted above the low mantle towards the end of the dining room table. I assume our portrait is hung on the wall at the other side of the dining room table, am I right? If you move the plates and sit on the table, you should be able to look at both your entire body and our portrait through the mirror. Do not worry about making a mess my dear. 

Perhaps this test may be a little lewd for a dinner setting. But after your proposed rendezvous in the kitchen in your last letter, I suppose this test would be nothing to you. 

Look at yourself in the mirror. Can you imagine me behind you, slowly kissing down your neck as I undress you while the candlelights flicker beside us? Our shadows cast against the walls that surround us tell the story of two lovers slowly conjoining into one. And I sit you against the front of my naked body, bending your legs and positioning them so you can see all of you through the mirror.

My love, can you see your lips unfold into a beautiful bloom, leaking with its sweet nectar for your man to taste? The sweet nectar, the glistening substitute to the honey our staff brought alongside our dinner rolls, rolls off the flower and soaks the tablecloth beneath you. Tonight I am not doing anything except revel in your beauty like a man awestruck by something so exquisite that he cannot do anything but stare. 

I want you to imagine that the same me in the portrait is the me you imagine to be behind you, the very me who writes this letter and instructs you on how to pleasure yourself for the night. Suck on your own fingers, my darling. Bring your fingers to your lips, and let me see the way you ready yourself before the pleasure comes. Because what I want is for you to fuck yourself well for me so that after you’ve squirted all over the dining table your pussy continues to throb so much that you confuse it for your beating heart. 

Don’t be shy. Bring your soaked fingers to your folds, and trace along the lines of the petals. Look at how they seemingly open and close as your stomach jerks in reaction. Slowly rub yourself up and down, coaxing that beautiful sigh that I know too well out of your mouth. Feel the pads of your finger mix with your juices, slipping easily and making your hand glide smoother. 

Are you looking at me through the mirror? Are you begging me to instruct you in other ways to satisfy your lust? Do you want to rub your pearl and flick it with your finger in a way that makes you clench and collapse? 

What is it, honey? Are you whining for me to make you feel good? But this is your guided session. Don’t you see yourself through the mirror, so pathetic looking that you would do anything that I tell you to do? Then take that same hand you used to tease yourself and slap your pussy for me. Bring the hand back and bring it down on your pussy quickly and with so much might that the sound of palm against tender skin echoes throughout the empty dining room. 

Don’t you feel pathetic? Getting off from you slapping your own pussy? Doesn’t it please you and make feel so dirty at the same time? When you’re striking your palm against your pussy over and over as your other hand unconsciously reaches upwards to knead your sore nipple, are you looking at yourself through the mirror? Are you still imagining me sitting behind you on our dining table, whispering and taunting you as you attempt to come undone? If your head is not completely clouded with lust, when that pussy is throbbing with such pain and pleasure, you will take your finger to your entrance and insert it slowly so you feel your warm and wet insides slowly swallow your finger the further in it goes. 

Let your mouth hang open as you plug yourself with another finger. Fill the lonely dining room with your sweet moans for me. Listen to your kitten squelch and leak the more you pump yourself so that a warm and hot feeling grows in your stomach, making you clench your body tighter and tighter. Scissor your fingers, and fill up that empty space where my cock usually rests. When you release, pull out your fingers as you come on the tablecloth and look at the cream I miss the most. 

You’re so perfect, you know that? You’d look even more perfect when you’re on your knees with your fingers underneath you and inside of you. Bounce for me my sweet, ride your own fingers as if you’re riding me. Massage yourself with your other hand, grabbing and kneading your breasts and your nipples as I do for you. Can you see yourself through the mirror more clearly when you’re in this position? Do you see how messy and needy you look while you’re pathetically riding your own fingers? Do you wish they were mine? Do you wish they were my thighs? 

Open your eyes for me as you reach another wave of ecstasy. Look at me in the eyes, the man painted next to your glowing figure as you reach your last high. I know you can do it. Scream my name if you love me, and squirt as if your pussy was crying for the man you love. 

Turn your head around when you’ve caught your breath. Look at our portrait. Do you see how I’m smiling at you? 

I’m proud of you, my love. Thank you for holding on for so long. I’ll be home soon. 

P.S. I love you.

Copyright © 2023 Himbocoups. All rights reserved.

[delicatuscii-wasbella102]

Historisches Kaufhaus (Historical merchants‘ hall) Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

[duckprintspress]

My June Reads

Storygraph introduced auto-generated graphics for sharing our reads by the month, which makes it much easier to do a review, and here I am! Sorry it's kinda pixelly, the settings on Storygraph aren't perfect yet but they're planning to add functionality.

I've been posting on the Duck Prints Press Book Lover's Server for a while, so everyone knows there that the answer to "how do you read so much?" is the library, but just to be clear, if it's a graphic novel, I got it from one of three libraries - either my local system, @queerliblib, or the Japan Foundation Library. The last two are both free-throughout-the-US Libby libraries and they've both been awesome.

Prose books, I usually own.

Anyway. Onward! My June reads:

How to Love: A Guide to Feelings and Relationships for Everyone by Alex Norris (graphic novel, short self-help stories about how to be in relationships, how to be alone, etc., all very inclusive.

Blue Flag Vol. 1 - 2 by Kaito (manga series about modern high school and a young man and his best friend - who has a crush on him - and a young woman and her best friend - who has a crush on her. poly vibes.)

The Tea Dragon Festival and The Tea Dragon Tapestry by K. O'Neill (graphic novels, very fluffy fantasy slice-of-life with various queer rep)

Squad by Maggie Toluda-Hall and Lisa Sterle (graphic novel, modern with magic, wlw high school student discovers that fitting in with the cool kids means becoming a murderous werewolf)

Clementine vol. 1 and 2 by Tille Walden (graphic novel, post-apocalyptic set in the same 'verse as The Walking Dead about a wlw amputee surviving against the zombies.

A Thousand Hopes, A Thousand Risks by Kelas Lloyd (short story, fantasy, pre-mlm between a young merchant and a god)

Ride On, Shooting Star by J. D. Harlock (short story, science fiction, a space courier wants to retire)

Deadendia vol. 1 by Hamish Steele (graphic novel, modern with magic/horror elements, about a trans male teenager who runs away from home and moves into a haunted house at an amusement park)

Giant Days vol. 2 by John Allison and Whitney Cogar (graphic novel, modern college setting, about the somewhat silly lives of the main characters)

Yona of the Dawn vol. 1 by Mizuho Kusanagi (manga, fantasy, about a young princess whose kingdom gets taken over by someone she thought a friend)

In the Dark vol. 3 by Jin Shisi Chai (danmei novel, mlm, last of three volumes - I read the other two in May - about an undercover drug cop who returns home after six years undercover)

The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation manhua vol. 6 by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu (manhua version of the MDZS novel, mlm, historical cultivation about a fraught political situation)

The Fox Maidens by Robin Ha (graphic novel playing on story of the fox maiden Gumiho in Korean mythology, with a side of wlw)

My Hero Academia vol. 9 - 12 by Kohei Horikoshi (manga series about teenagers at a high school for superheroes)

Frontera by Julio Anta and Jacoby Salcedo (graphic novel about a young man crossing the border between the US and Mexico illegally, and about the mlm ghost who helps him)

My Lesbian Experience with Loneliness by Nagata Kabi (autobiographical manga about a young lesbian in Japan trying to figure out her identity and find companionship)

Solo Leveling vol. 1 - 2 by Chugong (a manwha series set in modern fantasy Korea, about a young man is terrible at "hunting"...until he isn't)

Haikyu!! vol. 5 - 6 by Haruichi Furudate (manga series about young men who play high school volleyball)

Little Birds by Anaïs Nin (a collection of short erotic stories with lots of trigger warnings applicable and a few dashes of wlw, originally written in the 1930s and 1940s)

To Strip the Flesh by Oto Toda (manga collection of short stories, with the longest/most involved being about a young man's journey coming out as a trans man)

Shubeik Lubeik by Deena Mohamed (graphic novel exploring three stories of Egyptians getting first-grade wishes in a modern-with-magic world, includes NB rep)

Limerence by Jiang Zi Bei (danmei novel, mlm, about a young college student who breaks up with his boyfriend and ends up falling for his ex's roommate.)

Our Colors by Gengoroh Tagame (manga about a young Japanese gay man coming our of the closet and making friends/finding a mentor in an older gay man)

Silent Hearts vol. 1 by Jing Shui Bian (danmei novel, mlm, modern high school setting, lots of disability rep though not for either member of the main couple)

Rainbow! vol. 1 by Sunny (modern, maybe with magic, about a young woman with a tough life and the people around her; wlw implied in the future?)

Out of Left Field by Jonah Newman (real-life-inspired graphic novel about a young gay man navigating high school)

Escape From St. Hell: My Trans Life Levels Up by Lewis Hancox (autobiographical graphic novel about a young trans man with severe anxiety)

This was the most pages I've read in a month all year, and the second most individual books. There's actually one more book not pictured, as it wasn't on Storygraph and I opted not to add it.

Happy reading, y'all.

[thgfanfictionlibrary]

do you guys know of any everlark fics that are based on robin hood? specifically looking for one where katniss is the robin hood-figure in the story- i can’t find it!!

Hello Anon!

Thank you for this ask! Below is a list of Robin Hood x THG fics, it looks like several are Katniss as Robin Hood but some are not. Figured I'd list all I could find here though! Happy reading!

Between Poverty and Prosperity-Gamemakers (ff) Summary: In Panem's woodlands, the villagers of Twelve struggle to stay alive while those in the Capitol enrich themselves. Katniss Everdeen attempts to right this injustice, stealing from the rich to support the poor. She'll stop at nothing to help the people she loves, but she cannot fathom how far these actions will take her from the world she knows. Robin Hood AU, Everlark. Bullseye (An Everlark Robin Hood Adventure)-hutchabelle (ao3) Summary: Peeta Mellark is the Kingdom of Panem's Robin Hood. All he's missing is Katniss, his Maid Marian. Daughter of Robin Hood-we'reonfire (ff) Summary: Most people say Robin Hood was the best archer in the land. Legend has it, he had a secret daughter. The Merchants turn their noses up at the "tale for the feeble soul." Little did the poor Merchants know, that another Robin Hood was about to give them a run for their money. Hunter Hood-CrystallineX (ff) Summary: Take a Robin Hood, except he's a she and doesn't tow around a band of merry men. Add a sister studying to be a healer, and a baker's boy dreaming of something more. Let the games begin. AU Legend HGRomance (ao3) or (ff) Summary: People in the kingdom whispered about a legend: a boy with a bow. They said he took up residence in the woods, hiding out while committing random acts of kindness, namely stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Historical AU. Robin Hood. Of Arrows and Burnt Bread-sadbrowngirlpoetry (ao3) Summary: Halle Mellark is in love with Robin Everdeen who is best friends with Gayle Hawthorne, and that complicates matters. Then the Games happen, and that changes them entirely. AU series of interconnected one-shots. Genderswap rewrite of The Hunger Games. Robin hood and the juggling lumberjack-Thatoneloserkid (ff) Summary: Katniss tries to teach Johanna how to shoot a bow while Johanna tries to teach Katniss how to throw an axe. Robin Hoods Identity-I-piTy-Da-FoOl (ff) Summary: He saved me, the one that fascinates me the most. That boy has something about him. Something alluring. And even I, Katniss Everdeen, the unknown warrior that most fear, is attracted to him. She has no time for this. She has to take care of her soldiers. They're her life. Will Katniss's mother make or break her? Will Katniss keep her reason to fight? Or will Snow take it away too? Sparrow-jennajuicebox (ao3) Summary: Mad, I might be. But I will never be convenient. Tales-writing4mylife13 (ff) Summary: My name is Katniss Everdeen, but you may know me as Robin Hood. I steal from the rich and give to the poor. The Sun Thief-bubblegum1425 (ao3) Summary: In the land of Panem, over a decade ago, the royal house Mellark was overthrown by the usurper Coriolanus Snow. Though the terror-filled reign of Snow and his sons has now nearly extinguished the last spark of hope in Panem's people, one boy with a bow and his Merry Band seek to restore the faith and overthrow the King. An Everlark take on Robin Hood. Fantasy AU What's a Mob to a Queen?-orphan_account (ao3) Summary: At 17 years old, Katniss vanishes off the face of the earth. Five years later, on the day of Prim's birthday, Katniss shows up at the doorstep of her old home with an ultimatum for both her sister and lifelong best friend: "Come with me now and leave everything you know behind, or stay here and never tell anyone that you ever saw me." Peeta and Prim are shocked and overjoyed to discover that Katniss is alive, but that's not all: she is the Mockingjay – the queen of a powerful, definitely illegal but morally good organization. But reuniting with Katniss has costs; they will both need to say goodbye to their old lives and their old identities if they want to survive here, and Katniss will need to decide whether or not she can truly trust her two oldest companions. Will they find a way to get their old lives back, or will they join her in her life of danger, wealth and power?

If anyone knows of a fic like this, please reblog, reply, or send an ask with fics fitting this idea and I’ll add it here!

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please feel free to shoot me an ask!

[mwthesims3]

I've been fooling around Praaven (original by @potato-ballad-sims, reworked by @nornities and @simsmidgen) around the same time I read threads on historically accurate medieval building reconstructions.

Because of that I ended up reworking the façade of the buildings around the Market Square (specifically the City Hall and the Merchants' Guild) (I felt they needed some more colors, given the time period, as it's supposed to be set in late 14th Century Bohemia iirc).

Next step: remove the sunflowers from all lots that have them (as they're native to Mexico, which hasn't been invaded up to the 1490s)

Edit: Post #500. WOOO!!!1!

[cozycottagelife]

Ropes Mansion, located in Salem, Massachusetts, is a historic Georgian Colonial mansion that was built in the 1720s Originally built for merchant Samuel Barnard, the home was later acquired by Judge Nathaniel Ropes in 1768.

Nathaniel Ropes was a well-known person in Salem, serving as a judge and a member of the Governor’s Council. In 1774 during the American Revolution there was an attack on Ropes Mansion, Nathaniel succumbed to smallpox shortly after this incident.

The mansion is as famous for its haunted tales as it is for its historical significance. Stories of ghost sightings have surrounded the mansion for many years. One of the most well-known ghosts said to haunt the Ropes Mansion is Abigail Ropes. Abigail was the daughter of Judge Nathaniel Ropes II, in 1839 she died in a fire that started in the mansion. According to legend, Abigail’s spirit is tied to the mansion, unable to move on from the place of her death.

Visitors and staff have reported seeing a ghostly figure, believed to be Abigail Ropes, walking through the halls and appearing in the windows. Some have felt sudden drops in temperature, unexplained noises, and the feeling of being watched. The haunting stories have been passed down through many years adding to the mansion’s attraction.

Today, the house is owned by the Essex Institute’s successor, the Peabody Essex Museum. It is one of a number of historic homes owned by the museum, and it stands as an important architectural landmark. However, it is a major tourist destination in modern Salem for different reasons. The 1993 film Hocus Pocus used the house as a filming location, and it was prominently featured as the home of one of the main characters, Allison Watts.

[shadowsteed15]

Romania 🥰

This year my summer is a bit Dracula themed and last month I went on a little trip to Romania by myself. Romania is a beautiful country, it's tourism still growing and not everything is perfect, but there are plenty of wonderful places to see that are more than worth the visit, so here you have some tips for some Dracula tourism in his home country. 😊

Brasov - Whether you're going to Romania to follow Dracula or not, Brasov is an excellent place to start. Situated in the centre of Transylvania, it is a lovely, historical city and a tourist centre from which you can travel to different places of interest in the surrounding area. In the 15th century, Brasov was one of the most important cities belonging to the Transylvanian Saxon merchants, who didn't have a very good relationship with Vlad Tepes and according to legend, Vlad once came to the city and impaled 40 of the merchants on the nearby Tampa mountain. You can visit the mountain yourself either by climbing one of the tracks or using a cable car that travels from the foot of the mountain. Once you come back down, you can visit the beautiful Council Square with the famous Black Church and then you can go have lunch to the Dracula restaurant that features some lovely Dracula-themed decorations. 🙂

Bran Castle - From Brasov, you can then travel by bus or book a day tour to the Bran Castle, nestled in the mountains not far from the city. Bran is famously called Dracula's Castle, even though it has little to do with either the vampire or the prince, beside the fact the the castle is said to have been the inspiration for the actual castle in the book. But here at Bran they love their connection to the vampire that brings crowds of tourists to the area and the castle features a small exhibition dedicated not only to Vlad Tepes and Dracula, but also to other stories from Romanian folklore. In addition to that, the castle is a museum featuring exhibits from the life of the royal family, who used to live in this castle during the last century. 😊

Sighisoara - If you want to truly immerse yourself in the story of Vlad Tepes, you can travel to the beautiful town of Sighisoara, where he was originally born in 1431 and you can find signs of his presence everywhere. Sighisoara is a lovely city with a small, medieval fortress situated on a hill in its centre. This UNESCO heritage site will make you feel like you've been transported back in time with its colourful, old buildings and unigue, medieval atmosphere. The most famous building is a large clock tower that you can see from everywhere in the city, but a few steps from the tower you can find the house where young Vlad Tepes lived with his family for the first few years of his life. Today the building houses a restaurant and a souvenir shop.

Continuing with our exploration of the city, not far from the house, between a church and the city's town hall, you will find a stone bust of Vlad Tepes, commemorating the city's connection to the ruler. Walking back to the square and turning to another street, you can then visit the Mystical Transylvania museum that offers two small, but very well made exhibits, one talking about some famous stories from the city's history and the other one focusing on the story of Vlad Tepes himself, narrating his life with the use of projections, light and shadow and other special effect and an entertaining voice acting.

Though the journey had some challenges, I had a lot of fun and definitely will visit Romania again to see some other cool places, not only those connected to Dracula, and there's still a lot of these, but also from the large collection of other places that I haven't seen yet. 🥰

[maboroshi-no]

Hamefura Movie Novel Extra Story 1 Summary

I am currently reading the light of the novel of the upcoming Hamefura movie and will write summaries as I read.

(The translation is a bit rushed because I am in a hurry).

Previous Chapters:

Chapter 1: The Foreign Merchant Caravan

Chapter 2: The Emissaries From Mutlaq

Chapter 3: Food Supplies

Chapter 4: Encounter

Chapter 5: Sacred Beast

Extra Story 1

Katarina is currently riding a carriage. She asks a question to Geordo, sitting opposite her.

Katarina: The play we're going to watch is having its debut performance today, right?

Geordo (grinning): That's right. Today is the debut performance of the play we're going to watch.

A few days ago, Geordo invited Katarina to go to the theater. Katarina is not fond of theater since the plays she watched long ago always were hard-to-understand historical plays, but Geordo told her that the play this time was intended for a general audience, so she thought she would give it a try. And here they are.

Katarina looks out of the window.

Katarina: I think we'll arrive soon.

Keith: Right, we'll arrive soon.

Keith is actually riding the carriage with Geordo and Katarina. 

When Katarina told Keith that Geordo had invited her to the theater, Keith told her he also wanted to see the play and asked if he could join them. Katarina accepted. When Geordo came to fetch her, Geordo told Keith he had no seat for him, but Keith told him he had already booked a seat for himself. Katarina felt relieved that Keith already had his own ticket. 

The carriage has arrived at the theater. Katarina gets off the carriage, goes through the theater's entrance, and arrives in the hall.

Mary: Lady Katarina!

Katarina turns her head.

Katarina: Mary, Sophia, Maria, Prince Alan, Lord Nicol!

Katarina can see that all her friends are here.

Katarina: What are you all doing here?

Mary (smiling): We were interested in the play so we came to watch it. I am so glad to meet you, Lady Katarina. Let's watch it together.

Katarina is happy to meet her friends in such an unexpected place.

Katarina: Yes, let's.

Geordo: Unfortunately, the box seat I took can't hold so many people, so Katarina and I will watch the play together and once it is over, let's all spend time together.

Katarina remembers that nobles take seats in elevated boxes in theaters. In that case, everyone will indeed not fit in.

Katarina: Oh, right. Everyone will indeed not fit in. Then let's all spend time together after the play...

Mary: It is alright, Lady Katarina. I have also booked a box seat. Up to 4 people can sit in it, so let's split gentlemen and ladies and watch the play.

Sophia and Maria quickly take Katarina's hands.

Mary: Well then, gentlemen, please enjoy the play in the box seat booked by Prince Geordo. 

Mary starts walking elegantly, without letting anyone object. Katarina, Sophia, and Maria follow her.

The girls arrive at the box seat booked by Mary. Katarina feels like it is spacious enough to easily fit more than 4 people. But then she remembers that nobles usually have attendants with them, so it might have been taken into account.

Katarina sits on the soft sofa and sees sweets and tea already on the table.

She remembers how she was amazed by the service the first time she went to the theater. Maria seems to be as amazed as she was long ago.

Mary: Lady Katarina, do you know about the story adapted in this play?

Katarina (shaking head): No, I only heard that it was an adaptation of a story.

Sophia: It seems to be a love story between a princess and a knight. I don't know the precise content since it was written on reading material for commoners and hasn't been made into a book. I am looking forward to it. 

Katarina: So it is a love story between a princess and a knight, huh? I have read many of them in romance novels but I have never seen them in plays. I can't wait.

The plays Katarina watched before were all historical plays, like the history of one of the past kings, or the research of a famous magician. Compared to these, she is way more interested in love stories.

Maria: Is that so? Though, I heard they do this kind of play in commoner theaters.

Mary: Since it was popular in small theaters, it seems like they decided to hold a performance in a big theater like this for the first time.

Katarina: I see.

Katarina is amazed by how well-informed Mary is.

The curtain rises.

The girls watch the play.

The play has ended.

Katarina loved the play. She found the production very high quality: the stage setup, the actors' performance, the costumes… The story was staged as a romance novel, so it was easy to get into it. But Katarina was displeased with one thing.

Katarina: Why was there a bad ending?

Maria is puzzled.

Maria: What is a "bad ending"?

Katarina: Ah, umm~ Like, there wasn't a happy ending.

Sophia (outraged): I wholeheartedly agree! Why did they do such an ending?

Katarina notices that Sophia's expression just now is just like Acchan's angry expression.

Mary (hand on her cheek): I would have never guessed that it would turn into a blighted love.

The princess and knight's love story in the play ended up in a blighted love.

It was the story of a princess and her protecting knight, a commoner, who were both attracted to each other. A common trope in romance novels. In most of them, the two would overcome their difference in status and get married. But in this play, the knight stepped aside because he thought the princess couldn't be happy with him.

Katarina personally prefers happy endings, but she also reads blighted love stories.  

Katarina: But it totally felt like they would end up with each other! It completely built up towards them throwing away their status and getting married. So why at the very end, did it end up with him stepping aside?!

Sophia: It is completely as you say! It should have undoubtedly developed towards their marriage! I just can't believe that at the very end, the knight stepped aside.

Katarina and Sophia agree. Maria gives it some thought.

Maria: But the knight stepped aside because he noticed the prince's feelings for the princess and thought he would make her happier than him, who had low status. Since I am a commoner like the knight, I can understand his feelings.

As high-ranking nobles, Katarina, Sophia, and Mary can't really understand that feeling, but they guess it might be the case if Maria says so.

Maria (decisively): I can understand his feelings, but... If it were me, I wouldn't give up.

Katarina is blank, surprised by Maria's sudden determined words.

Maria (dignified): Supposing there was a difference of status between me and the one I love, if they chose me, I would want to stay by their side for as long as they desired. I would do anything to that end. 

Maria makes a dignified face befitting of the heroine of the game. Katarina is sure the capture targets are also attracted to Maria and want to live with her for as long as they desire.

Mary (fully determined): Me too! I also want to stay by my beloved's side forever! If there were a big obstacle in my way, I would break it!

Sophia (excitedly): Everyone is so passionate. But I share the same opinion. Even if another more suitable person has appeared, what about the princess's feelings? For him to give up one-sidedly, the knight is so self-righteous. If he had refused to give up and run away with the princess, they could have lived together. 

Katarina feels like Sophia breathing out of her nose out of excitement would be NG for a game, but aside from that, she vehemently agrees with her.

Katarina: That's right. He shouldn't have given up. The princess loved the knight after all. It would have been great if she had chosen to be with him. 

The girls all agree that the play was great and that the knight shouldn't have given up at the end. They all have fun exchanging their impressions.

Katarina wonders how it went with the boy's group.

Geordo's POV

Geordo wonders how things turned out like this. He deeply sighs.

A few days ago, Geordo heard a play would adapt a story intended for the general public. Katarina wasn't really interested in plays because a lot of them were historical ones, but he thought she might like this one since she enjoyed reading romance novels.

Geordo secured tickets right away and invited Katarina. Katarina promptly accepted, but Geordo was fairly sure he wouldn't be able to go to the theater alone with her

Based on the usual pattern, since Geordo can't prevent Katarina from talking, she would tell Keith, then it would reach Mary, and then Mary would suggest doing it "with everyone". He can clearly see that happening.

Geordo doesn't particularly hate spending time with everyone. Before meeting Katarina, he found it bothersome to spend time with people at times, but that is not the case anymore. His friends, who have been with him since childhood, are important to him and he enjoys spending time with them. 

Still, Geordo considers his time with Katarina as a different matter. The heart-pounding time with the one he loves is special.

Since he has graduated from the academy, Geordo will start working as a full-fledged royal. As for Katarina, she will join the Ministry of Magic. They will have significantly less time to see each other. That's why he wanted to spend just a little time with her now.

Geordo intentionally chose a narrow box seat to that end. He expected that Mary and the others would forcibly enter the box seat he booked, but if they couldn't all fit in, they would have no choice but to wait outside. He also intentionally chose the date of the debut performance so there wouldn't be any other available box seats. That way, they wouldn't be able to get a large box seat on that day.

...So why did it turn out like this?

Geordo looks at the 3 grown men closely huddled together on the narrow sofa. They are in such close proximity that it would have been improper if they had been unmarried men and women. But since they are all men, there is no problem since same-sex marriage is currently not recognized in Sorcier. This distance does not raise any problem, but it looks so sultry. The sofa is too narrow for 4 grown men to sit together but if he chases them out, the 3 won't have any seat

Geordo wonders if Mary secured a box seat from the start while anticipating that he would take a narrow box seat. If so, the frightening Mary Hunt is becoming more of a formidable enemy with the passing years. He will need to refine his countermeasures against her after that. While thinking of this, Geordo shudders about having to watch a play on a narrow sofa filled with men.

Geordo: Umm, won't it be hard for you? Wouldn't you rather not force yourself to watch the play and just wait outside? 

Alan: No, since I'm already here. Besides, I'm curious about the play, so I'll watch it.

Nicol (expressionless): Me too.

Keith: I'll also watch it since I'm already here. If I don't, I won't be able to discuss the play with Big Sister after.

Keith has added his motive. Geordo has the same motive, so he reluctantly decides to endure the narrowness and the sultriness and watch the play.

The play is over.

Geordo feels like, because they're bringing forth a story intended for the general public for the first time, the staff put out all the stops for the play. Geordo could tell they put a lot of work into the stage setup and the costumes.

The story was about the love between a princess and a knight like in many romance novels that Katarina enjoys, but the feelings of the two protagonists who were attracted to each other despite their difference of status were carefully depicted. Geordo thought that at this rate, they would probably marry each other at the end, but it unexpectedly ended with the knight stepping aside.

Geordo wonders why the knight would step aside here, then concludes that each person is different. But his younger brother and friends have other opinions.

Alan: For him to step aside for the princess here...

Alan is grimacing with a pained face because he is empathizing with the knight. Geordo thinks to himself that Alan has grown up into such an honest person. He sometimes wonders if Alan really is his brother.

Nicol: Yes, for him to go through his decision to step aside so resolutely...

Nicol is expressionless but the tone of his voice resounds as pained.

Geordo is surprised that Nicol would empathize with the knight, but then he remembers that Nicol is Sophia's older brother.

Keith: For him to step aside and entrust the princess to the prince...

Keith makes an incredibly sad face. Geordo thinks to himself that Keith seems to empathize with the knight but he is not disregarding the other people. Though, his look is similar to the other two.

Geordo analyzes the situation. 4 grown men are sitting tightly with shoulders touching on a narrow sofa intended for lovers and married couples and 3 of them are hanging their heads with pained faces. If someone were to enter right at this moment, they would think he had done something to the other three. On the other hand, if he leaves ahead and the remaining 3 are seen hanging their heads like this, people may think that he not only did something to them but also promptly ran away. 

In the end, Geordo didn't leave the sofa and just waited for the other three to sort out their feelings. 

When the 4 of them left the box seat and joined back with the girls, the girls were excitedly talking among themselves. Geordo felt incredibly jealous looking at them.

[aspenous]

Kuroshou medieval AU haHA

Daishou is a noblemans son, one not that important in the grand scheme of things, yet still powerful enough to be allowed into the royal courts. His family has a tendancy to avoid picking sides, more often a neutral party during political conflicts, and because of this Daishou is able to participate in various parties. Its there he meets Tetsurou; another noble who quickly gets under his skin and irritates Daishou to no end. The teen doesn't even tell Daishou which house he's from, instead daring him to guess. Daishou knows everyone. He's poured through historical records and memorized Lords and Ladies alike and yet, he can never pin point which family Tetsurou's from. For each guess wrong, he looses a bit of his own secrecy. Tetsurou asks him about his own family, his studies, his hobbies and whatever else; half the topics feel inproper for noblesons to discuss, but Tetsurou always insists and Daishou is pride bound to uphold his end of the bet.

Tetsurou starts to appear more often. At every party Daishou attends, he'll find Tetsurou as well, who seems to have made it his mission to bother Daishou constantly. It's easier at least, than trying to kiss ass to older noblemen who look at him as if he's a starry eyed toddler. Talking to Tetsurou–despite being annoying–was much easier, and with each conversation they share Daishou learns a little more about the other boy.

Not about his family, history or lineage. But instead his habits, quirks and personality. For one, he prefers salted foods over anything sweet. He constantly hovers close to crowds, and slots himself easily into them, as if he'd been part of the conversation from the start. He talked to people. Alot. He has the worst case of bed hair known to man, and apparently each attempt to fix is has failed. His best friend was a boy named Kenma, a merchants son who always looked like he'd rather be in some ditch than any party. He's preceptive–oddly so–picking up on habits, moods and mannerisms even Daishou hadn't noticed until it's pointed out.

He's a caring person, past all the witty jokes, layered provocations, he has a habit of looking out for others and Daishou finds himself thankful to just know. To be allowed to see this side of the boy. Somewhere along the way, after months of nightly comradery, he's grown fond of Tetsurou,

"More like a crush–" Mika had cooed, taking off down the hall before Daishou could defend himself.

Fond. It's the appropriate word to describe the ease he feels whenever he spots the rooster nest of hair in a crowd. The perfect word for the bright warmth that spreads through his chest when the bastard smiles, more teeth and cheek than socially acceptable. Its the right word, and if Daishou repeats that to himself enough times, maybe he'll believe it himself.

They end up at another party. Grander than any other since it's the royal family themselves hosting it. Despite having arrived an hour ago, Daishou has yet to spot Tetsurou, and almost considers that maybe the other boy had just decided not to show up; that is until the doorman announces the hosts, and Daishou zeros in–embarrassingly quickly–on a familiar boy standing beside their King, covered in fine only the finest cloth and silk.

What the fuck.

(I died lmao Democratic vote should I continue this?? Edit: came back and added a little more.)

[justforbooks]

The actor Michael Jayston, who has died aged 88, was a distinguished performer on stage and screen. The roles that made his name were as the doomed Tsar Nicholas II of Russia in Franklin Schaffner’s sumptuous account of the last days of the Romanovs in Nicholas and Alexandra (1971), and as Alec Guinness’s intelligence minder in John Le Carré’s Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy on television in 1979. He never made a song and dance about himself and perhaps as a consequence was not launched in Hollywood, as were many of his contemporaries.

Before these two parts, he had already played a key role in The Power Game on television and Henry Ireton, Cromwell’s son-in-law, in Ken Hughes’s fine Cromwell (1969), with Richard Harris in the title role and Guinness as King Charles I. And this followed five years with the Royal Shakespeare Company including a trip to Broadway in Harold Pinter’s The Homecoming, in which he replaced Michael Bryant as Teddy, the brother who returns to the US and leaves his wife in London to “take care of” his father and siblings.

Jayston, who was not flamboyantly good-looking but clearly and solidly attractive, with a steely, no-nonsense, demeanour and a steady, piercing gaze, could “do” the Pinter menace as well as anyone, and that cast – who also made the 1973 movie directed by Peter Hall – included Pinter’s then wife, Vivien Merchant, as well as Paul Rogers and Ian Holm.

Jayston had found a replacement family in the theatre. Born Michael James in Nottingham, he was the only child of Myfanwy (nee Llewelyn) and Vincent; his father died of pneumonia, following a serious accident on the rugby field, when Michael was one, and his mother died when he was a barely a teenager. He was then brought up by his grandmother and an uncle, and found himself involved in amateur theatre while doing national service in the army; he directed a production of The Happiest Days of Your Life.

He continued in amateur theatre while working for two years as a trainee accountant for the National Coal Board and in Nottingham fish market, before winning a scholarship, aged 23, to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, where he was five years older than everyone else on his course. He played in rep in Bangor, Northern Ireland, and at the Salisbury Playhouse before joining the Bristol Old Vic for two seasons in 1963.

At the RSC from 1965, he enjoyed good roles – Oswald in Ghosts, Bertram in All’s Well That Ends Well, Laertes to David Warner’s Hamlet – and was Demetrius in Hall’s film of A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1968), with Warner as Lysander in a romantic foursome with Diana Rigg and Helen Mirren.

But his RSC associate status did not translate itself into the stardom of, say, Alan Howard, Warner, Judi Dench, Ian Richardson and others at the time. He was never fazed or underrated in this company, but his career proceeded in a somewhat nebulous fashion, and Nicholas and Alexandra, for all its success and ballyhoo, did not bring him offers from the US.

Instead, he played Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (Lewis Carroll) in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (1972), a so-so British musical film version with music and lyrics by John Barry and Don Black, with Michael Crawford as the White Rabbit and Peter Sellers the March Hare. In 1979 he was a colonel in Zulu Dawn, a historically explanatory prequel to the earlier smash hit Zulu.

As an actor he seemed not to be a glory-hunter. Instead, in the 1980s, he turned in stylish and well-received leading performances in Noël Coward’s Private Lives, at the Duchess, opposite Maria Aitken (1980); as Captain von Trapp in the first major London revival of The Sound of Music at the Apollo Victoria in 1981, opposite Petula Clark; and, best of all, as Mirabell, often a thankless role, in William Gaskill’s superb 1984 revival, at Chichester and the Haymarket, of The Way of the World, by William Congreve, opposite Maggie Smith as Millamant.

Nor was he averse to taking over the leading roles in plays such as Peter Shaffer’s Equus (1973) or Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa (1992), roles first occupied in London by Alec McCowen. He rejoined the National Theatre – he had been Gratiano with Laurence Olivier and Joan Plowright in The Merchant of Venice directed by Jonathan Miller in 1974 – to play a delightful Home Counties Ratty in the return of Alan Bennett’s blissful, Edwardian The Wind in the Willows in 1994.

On television, he was a favourite side-kick of David Jason in 13 episodes of David Nobbs’s A Bit of a Do (1989) – as the solicitor Neville Badger in a series of social functions and parties across West Yorkshire – and in four episodes of The Darling Buds of May (1992) as Ernest Bristow, the brewery owner. He appeared again with Jason in a 1996 episode of Only Fools and Horses.

He figured for the first time on fan sites when he appeared in the 1986 Doctor Who season The Trial of a Time Lord as Valeyard, the prosecuting counsel. In the new millennium he passed through both EastEnders and Coronation Street before bolstering the most lurid storyline of all in Emmerdale (2007-08): he was Donald de Souza, an unpleasant old cove who fell out with his family and invited his disaffected wife to push him off a cliff on the moors in his wheelchair, but died later of a heart attack.

By now living on the south coast, Jayston gravitated easily towards Chichester as a crusty old colonel – married to Wendy Craig – in Coward’s engaging early play Easy Virtue, in 1999, and, three years later, in 2002, as a hectored husband, called Hector, to Patricia Routledge’s dotty duchess in Timberlake Wertenbaker’s translation of Jean Anouilh’s Léocadia under the title Wild Orchids.

And then, in 2007, he exuded a tough spirituality as a confessor to David Suchet’s pragmatic pope-maker in The Last Confession, an old-fashioned but gripping Vatican thriller of financial and political finagling told in flashback. Roger Crane’s play transferred from Chichester to the Haymarket and toured abroad with a fine panoply of senior British actors, Jayston included.

After another collaboration with Jason, and Warner, in the television movie Albert’s Memorial (2009), a touching tale of old war-time buddies making sure one of them is buried on the German soil where first they met, and a theatre tour in Ronald Harwood’s musicians-in-retirement Quartet in 2010 with Susannah York, Gwen Taylor and Timothy West, he made occasional television appearances in Midsomer Murders, Doctors and Casualty. Last year he provided an introduction to a re-run of Tinker Tailor on BBC Four. He seemed always to be busy, available for all seasons.

As a keen cricketer (he also played darts and chess), Jayston was a member of the MCC and the Lord’s Taverners. After moving to Brighton, he became a member of Sussex county cricket club and played for Rottingdean, where he was also president.

His first two marriages – to the actor Lynn Farleigh in 1965 and the glass engraver Heather Sneddon in 1970 – ended in divorce. From his second marriage he had two sons, Tom and Ben, and a daughter, Li-an. In 1979 he married Ann Smithson, a nurse, and they had a son, Richard, and daughter, Katie.

🔔 Michael Jayston (Michael James), actor, born 29 October 1935; died 5 February 2024

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[somethingclevermahogony]

OC Intro: Wadikir the Lord of Oaths

Hello everyone! Here is Wadikir, Bidani, Oligarch of Chibal and "The Lord of Oaths" he was the winner of the last Character intro poll, I will be posting the next round shortly after this!

Name: Wadikir

The name Wadikir is a pseudo-noble name based on the noble name Adikur. Names like this are meant to emmulate the prestige of noble naming conventions for those whose blood is not noble. Though Wadikir is among the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in all of Kishetal, he and his family are not technically noble by blood, nor have they been given a noble title by a king. Here is an explanation of Kishic Noble names.

Continues below the cut!

Family:

Father: Enkamish, Merchant and Bidani (Dead)

Mother: Kadira, Merchants daughter, originally from Fifna (Dead)

Brother: Hubaru, Merchant and Bidani heir (Dead)

Sister: Buruna, Currently married to a minor Ikopeshi chieftain (Alive)

Nephew: Warut, Currently with his mother (Alive)

No children

No Partner

Homeland/Place of Origin

The Palace (Bidanlum) of Chibal, Chibal, Coastal Region of Kishetal

Ethnicity

Coastal Kishite

History

To properly understand Wadikir it is necessary to understand a little about the City-State of Chibal.

The city was founded shortly after the settlement and conquest of Western Kishetal by Tamel roughly 1,400 years before the birth of Narul.

While initially part of the Kishite Empire under the 500 year reign Tamel, Chibal would be amongst the first of the Kishite cities to declare independece after the death of Tamel and the subsequent war against and destruction of Arkodai.

The first king of Chibal, Adikar participated minimally in the civil wars preceding the end of the empire and chose instead to expand economically, creating the Palace of a Thousand Stone Trees, the original name for the grand palatial complex which stands at the center of the city.

The line of Adikar itself would end 300 years later after his descendant, also named Adikar, vanished along with an entire fleet of ships. In the subsequent chaos, a group of 14 powerful merchants, calling themselves the Bidani, named for their leader Bidan, seized control. Subsequently Chibal became an Aristocratic Oligarchy, controlled by a council of powerful merchants, elected and nominated by that same council. Historically the number of members has fluctuated between 6 and 20.

Along with claiming ownership of the Palace (renamed Bidanlum or Home of the Bidani), the Bidani would begin the construction of a massive library.

This library, The Hall of Oaths, is the largest collection of tablets, scrolls, books, and artifacts in the Green Sea. Also called the Hall of Secrets, the hall is infamous for the secrets which it carries, secrets which have historically allowed the Bidani to hold considerable power over much of Kishetal.

Wadikir was born the middle child of the Bidani, Enkamish and the Fifnian, Kadira. Enkamish had secured his place on the council through his aggressive and far-reaching control of the copper flow into the city as well as his contributions to the city's considerable slave trade.

From a young age, Enkamish's eldest son, Hubaru, was groomed to follow his father's path and to eventually take his father's seat as a Bidani.

Wadikir was born seven years after Hubaru, his father did not attend the birth as he was embroiled in a rather intense auction over a ram.

Kadira died of unknown causes shortly after the birth of Wadikir's sister, Buruna. Wadikir was two years old.

Wadikir and Buruna, were in large part ignored by their father. The care of both of these children primarily fell to Nutia, the Pyrian wetnurse/slave purchased by Enkamish.

Around the age of 19, Hubaru was given three ships and named an official partner of Enkamish. Hubaru would go on to follow his father, becoming a copper merchant. Hubaru was known for his friendly attitude and charisma, however his business sense was lacking, and somewhat ironically he had trouble keeping track of his finances.

While Enkamish showered his attention on Hubaru and Buruna was fawned on by local boys and her nanny, Wadikir ingratiated himself with the other members of the Bidani. He became a constant facet around the palace, working on various errands and chores, among other things for the old merchants of the city. Thus from a young age, Wadikir was able to compile a sizeable mental portfolio on the upper levels of Chibalic society. Rather than receiving a ship from his father, as Hubaru had, Wadikir was gifted a ship and crew by the Master of the Hall of Oaths, Renatu, one of the older members of the Bidani. Wadikir used the knowledge of trade routes and international politics learned from the halls and bedrooms of the Bidani to quickly weasel his way into the trading retinues and good graces of several Korithian lords (and their wives, sons, and daughters). At the age of 20, Wadikir was already among the most prominent traders of Korithian oils and resins to not only Chibal but the entire western coast of Kishetal.

Around this time Wadikir became closer to his sister, and became aware of her affair with her father's slave, Kumad. Though at this time, none of them were aware that Buruna was pregnant. This fame did not escape the attention of Enkamish or Hubaru. The confrontation between Wadikir and his brother and father was a fiery one which resulted in Wadikir being ejected from the family manor.

Perhaps as a way of punishing her for not taking his side in the argument, Wadikir sent a letter to his father detailing Buruna's involvement with Kumad. Enkamish sold off Kumad and promised Buruna, who was visibly pregnant at this point, to an Ikopeshi chieftain, where the shame of her impropriety would be kept far away. Wadikir himself untied the last rope on the ship which would take his sister away from her homeland forever.

Wadikir through an almost unanimous vote (all but Enkamish) was allowed to take up residence in the Palace itself. Hubaru's business would continue to flounder, while Wadikir's continued to soar. Hubaru's reputation was certainly not helped by the vicious rumors that Wadikir spread; including that it hadn't been the slave at all but Hubaru who had impregnated his own sister. Though these accusations had no basis in fact they did have the desired effect.

Wadikir began to dress lavishly in Apunian jewelry and eastern silks, many of which were gifts sent by his various clients.

Renatu, Master of the Hall of Oaths, passed around this time, his position thus going unfilled. Around this time Wadikir began to spend more time within the Hall, taking note of the various records and secrets kept within.

At the Festival of the Fall Harvest, a drunken Hubaru would confront Wadikir. The confrontation ended in a physical altercation, though drunk, Hubaru was far bigger and stronger than his younger sibling, and handily beat Wadikir, breaking his nose in the process. Wadikir was left bloodied and humiliated in the mud.

Less than two months later, Hubaru would be captured aboard one of his vessels and subsequently tortured and killed by Korithian pirates. Wadikir of course, denied his involvement, though his sudden burst of new business with the Korithian city that the pirates had come from, certainly raised eyebrows.

Enkamish was inconsolable at the death of his beloved son. The merchant drowned his sorrows in wine, and rapidly became dependent on it. How fortunate (or unfortunate) that jugs of expensive Korithian wine would mysteriously appear on his front doorstep. Enkamish would regularly appear at Bidani meetings heavily intoxicated.

The precise cause of Enkamish's death is not known, though it is believed that he fell down the stairs of his manor.

A vote was called to fill Enkamish's seat with Wadikir as the obvious candidate. However, much to the surprise of the Bidani, Wadikir requested, that rather than being given his father's chair at the council that he be given the title of the Master of the Hall of Oaths. The duty was considered to be lacking in prestige, dealing with dusty records and dank halls, a far cry from the glittering and charismatic merchant who had clawed and wormed his way so deep into Chibalic society.

Ultimately Wadikir was granted his wish, thus becoming the youngest "Lord of Oaths" in the history of Chibal.

Wadikir would make great use of the archives, using the secrets and knowledge held within to increase his influence and bolster his trade.

Additionally his ties with Korithia allowed for Wadikir to create his own merchant army of sorts, a particularly relevant fact when one considers that the city of Chibal has no standing army.

Wadikir deals in secrets, bribery, and coercion, and through this has become not only the richest of the Bidani, but among the richest men in all of the Green Sea rivaled only by the kings of entire countries, and the de facto king of Chibal.

Wadikir, in addition to trading in his secrets, has a hand in everything from slaves to copper, perfume to exotic animals, and jewelry to manure.

Appearance

Wadikir is a tall and thin man in his mid-thirties. He is quite handsome with angular features, though his nose is somewhat crooked. He has lost some of the good looks of his youth, however there is no denying that he is still quite attractive when he wishes to be. His hair and beard are carefully tended to and perfumed. He decorates his body and hair with various beads, necklaces, rings, earrings, and bangles and wears expensive clothing. His eyes are green, a rarity in Kishetal, and something which he is quite proud of. 

Personality

Wadikir is incredibly charming and charismatic when he wants to be. This is however a front which hides his true nature as self-centered, greedy, cruel, misogynistic at times, and overly pompous. He can best be described as a "dick."

Gender/Pronouns

Cis-man He/Him

Sexual Orientation

Aromantic Bisexual

Relationships

Wadikir is not in a relationship and has little interest in relationships and sexuality outside of the realm of business and manipulation

Favorite Color

Navy Blue

Favorite Food

Kisitur Shuliwanash (Salted Scallops, a raw preparation of scallop, very expensive and high class)

Biggest Fear

That he will lose his grasp on the Hall

Drowning

Death

Sage?

No

Literate?

Can read, speak, and write in Kishic, Korithian, Ikopeshi, and Shabalic

Excerpt

Suru coughed in the man’s face. A glob of phlegm trickled down the merchant's cheek. The man stumbled back in disgust, and wiped his face with his shawl.  “You foul little beast!” The man roared.  The first thing Suru felt was the pudgy hand smashing into his cheek and then the wooden stage beneath his head.  “I’ll have you flayed and then dragged through the salt beds for that.” The pig-faced man snarled. “Do you know who I am, you little worm?” “Kadir, have you purchased this slave?”  Kadir spun to look at the tall figure cutting his way through the crowd. His face was soft and yet angular. His black hair was braided and decorated with shells and silver, his beard was cut short, little more than stubble. The red tan skin of his hands was barely visible beyond his extensive collection of jeweled rings and the wide sleeves of his blue robes. At his side was a rodent of a man dressed in the white linen skirt of a servant, his black hair was close-cropped and spikey and his head seemed far too big for the rest of his body as if someone had stuck an artichoke on the end of a small stick. Kadir wiped his hand against his clothes. "The waves be with you, Wadikir. As for this dog, I was considering it, but he would be a waste of silver." Wadikir sighed and bent to inspect Suru's cheek. "A nasty welt here, Kadir. Soiled product I'd say. Really you should have known better. We Bidani have a reputation to uphold. You can't go spoiling goods you have no intention of buying. Don't worry I will rectify this little incident and buy it myself." Wadikir bent to rest a palm against Suru’s cheek. It was soft and uncalloused.

@patternwelded-quill @flaneurarbiter @skyderman @blackblooms @roach-pizza @illarian-rambling @dezerex @theocticscribe @axl-ul, @persnickety-peahen, @surroundedbypearls

[heritagebrowser]

The Hotel Falligan is a historic building on the Kouter in the Belgian city of Ghent. In this post only some pictures of the staircase hall.

The rococo town house was built in 1755 for Hector-Gabriel-Joseph Falligan (from a noble family from the region of Anjou -around Angers, Pays de la Loire- in France) and his wife Jeanne Agnès de Pestre (heiress of a merchant in colonial goods). The building has Corinthian columns with statues of Apollo and Diana. The large, central balcony with hand-wrought work is supported by four stylized consoles. At the rear there is a courtyard with a view of the ornate coach houses, decorated with the coats of arms of the Falligan and Depestre families on the pediment. In 1804 the literary society Club des Nobles settled in the building. Inside there are oriental-inspired murals of Parisian origin.

The building has been a protected monument since 1990. In December 2012, several scenes were shot in this building for the feature film Grace of Monaco about the life of film star and princess Grace Kelly.

[theresattrpgforthat]

I’ve been a big fan of northern fantasy, but especially viking sagas, epics and of course the Eda, are there any games that fall into genres similar to the Volsung Saga or The Epic of Ragnar Lodbrok?

THEME: Viking Sagas

Hello! The following recommendations are either based on Norse Fantasy, Viking Fantasy, or historical Norse societies. Some are more realistic than others, but they run the gamut from light-hearted to serious, and from fantastical to realistic.

9 Lives to Valhalla, by Gem Room Games.

9 Lives to Valhalla is a frenetic, gleefully ultraviolent ttrpg about death metal viking cats earning their seat in Valhalla through glorious violence and death (all 9 of them)!

Nine lives to stalk the earth! Nine times to die with sword in paw! Nine Lives to Valhalla!

You are a death metal viking cat, earning your place in the drinking halls of Valhalla by casting a wake of blood and carnage upon the blighted earth in each of your 9 lives. Guided personally by DEATH, your merry band will leave a wake of ruin ending only at the hands of a truly worthy foe. Find treasures, trade with merchants, mercenaries, or ghosts, and follow DEATH to seek worthy foes, fiendish traps, and ensure your place among the greatest warriors of catkind!

This is absolutely the kind of game you want to pull out for players who want to dive into violence with glee. This is a death-metal dark-fantasy world, with dangerous opponents, a pantheon of cat gods, tons of character abilities, and GM advice on how to design your own foes on the fly. If you want a game that indulges a party of murder hobos and sends nods to the pop-culture tropes of Vikings, you might want to check out 9 Lives To Valhalla. 

Ydalir, by Loreshaper Games.

Ullr took something that is rightly yours. He reigns in his court, Ýdalir, and that is where he has taken your treasure. It may be your beloved, a prized possession or tool, or even your honor—and you will get it back.

One player will take on the role of GM. They will guide the saga as it unfolds. They will tell players when to roll, and what the threshold is. The other players will make heroes seeking to reclaim what Ullr stole from them—they may be after the same object or several different things, but getting them back is a shared quest. 

This is a one-page bluffing game, in which you don’t have to tell the truth about what you rolled. However, other players can take on the role of Ullr call your bluff. If you lied (or failed), you suffer a Loss, while if you tell the truth, you gain a Focus, which forces other players to tell the truth, or reveal their next roll and gives your player a step up in the future. If you like the idea of characters bluffing their way past a God to get their treasures back, or you just want a small game interacting with Norse mythology, you might want to check out this game.

Runecairn, by Odin’s Beard RPG.

In a long forgotten age, a raging war shattered and devastated the worlds of gods and men. Now green life blooms amidst the ruins of the lost worlds. Wondrous and terrible beings roam the Nine Realms. Civilization stumbles forward, fresh and reaching.

Strap on your bearded axe and linden wood shield, delve into the forsaken barrow and cleanse the draugr within. They will overwhelm you at first so prepare to die. But when you wake up at the bonfire, you'll know what to expect for your next attempt. Parry their attacks, disarm them, and hack them to pieces. Defeat the mad jotunn within and claim the soul remnant they protect.

Death is not the end.

Runecairn: Core Rules is a 44-page, black and white tabletop RPG zine, which includes a Norse fantasy setting, a full game system, and character creation rules for adventures set after Ragnarok destroyed most of the Nine Realms of Norse mythology. Runecairn is based on Cairn by Yochai Gal, with streamlined rules, fast character creation, and gameplay based on exploration and player choice.

This game is designed for the OSR gamer, which means that death is likely and character creation is quick. This game has quite a few supplements that you can pick up to enhance your play, from the Advanced Rules, (solo play, advanced character options), Beneath the Broken Sword (an introductory dungeon crawl), and Wardensaga, a package that contains everything in one place. If you’re interested in a rules-set that is easy to pick up and carries time-honoured nods to the fantasy game, with a Norse Mythology twist, I recommend Runecairn.

Blood Feud, by Bläckfisk Publishing.

Blood Feud is a game about toxic masculinity: certain common attitudes and behaviors among men, that cause great harm to them and to others around them. This is a game about people being nasty to each other and about figuring out why.

It’s also a game about vikings of pre-christian Scandinavia; about honor and blood feuds, courage and brutality, corruption and consequences. Above all it is a game about what it means to be a man in such a world—and what consequences that has on the communities they live in.

The goal of the game is to explore and experience toxic masculinity, while at the same time creating a thoughtful drama about relationships, competition and social consequences. Blood Feud is decidedly different from the other games on this list in that it takes away fantastical elements and focuses on the intertwined relationships of Vikings through a critical lens. It does this using the well-matched Powered by the Apocalypse system, which is a hallmark for dramatic role-players. If you’re interested in Viking life as well as exploring public and private relationships, you should absolutely check this game out.

Iron Edda: World of Metal and Bone, by Tracy Barnett.

Dwarven Destroyers stretch shadows across Midgard, a harbinger of war to come. Brave human warriors abandon clan and holdfast to bond themselves to the bones of dead giants, hoping to push back the Destroyers. Strangers from others lands appear in Midgard, bringing with them strange powers, and tales of war abroad.

Seers advise and divine the future, but the fate of the world is murky and dim. Jarls, thralls, and warriors fight in common cause, shouting “victory or Valhalla!” as they charge into battle. Ragnarok has come, and you live in a World of Metal and Bone. Will you dine with the gods in Valhalla, or dance with the dishonoured dead?

Another Powered by the Apocalypse game, World of Metal and Bone lets you tell stories of brave warriors, Jarls, Bone-bonded giants, and their defense of their holdfasts. Based on Dungeon World, this game includes something that not a lot of PbtA games have - established lore. There’s not much of it, but characters are presented with names that follow the naming conventions of different cultures and locations, and the book begins by presenting the reader with different factions and neighbouring countries.

If you’re interested in this setting but you would like a different system, Iron Edda Accelerated is in the same world but uses the FATE rules system instead. There’s also Iron Edda Reforged, a side-story game about building a neighbourhood community and taking down the gods - although this is less Norse Mythology and more a modern-day post-apocalypse.

Godtale, by Bläckfisk Publishing.

GODTALE is a Norse mythological micro RPG about escapades and rivalries, about cunning and vainglory. You portray aesir, asynjur and vanir of your own creation. Together you go on adventures in the Nine Realms. But each of you wants to be the deity who earns the most glory—not infrequently at the expense of your companions.

Godtale is a game in which you can win or lose. You will compete against your fellow players to gain the most Glory by the end of the game. You do so by overcoming Trials, using your Domains, Attributes, and Possessions to do so. You must also be careful not to accumulate too much Pride, which will negatively affect your dice rolls.

As for the GM, this little game provides a few pieces of advice on running the game, as well as some roll tables to give the characters interesting Trials. Overall, this game is quick, simple, and a great way to establish new myths about the deities of the Norse Pantheon - maybe even a great way to set the stage for another game on this list!

In The Time of Monsters, by Possum Creek Games.

It was the final age — the old world was dying, and the new world was struggling to be born. Every day Ragnarok drew closer, the end of the world heralded by churning seas and raging skies. The gods grew rotten and weak, their greedy eyes sunken into rotting skulls. The great heroes were reduced to grist in the mill of war. It was the final age before all things ended, and as the world-tree rotted, everyone knew … Now is the time of monsters.

In The Time Of Monsters is a tactical combat TTRPG about bloodsoaked heroes vying for power at the end of the world. It's inspired by Norse Mythology, Lancer, and Dungeons & Dragons 4th Edition. 

Jay Dragon is more known for games that are diceless or centred on storytelling, but this game seems to be a divergence from this pattern. This is meant to be tactical, it’s meant to be combat-focused, and it carries the familiar character elements of stats, special abilities, and inventory. That being said, characters will also answer questions about where they got their weapons and magic items and what they want in regards to the end of the world. 

If you're looking to tell dramatic fables about tragic warriors on a grid while rolling dice and getting big numbers, this is the game for you. If you’re looking for an adventure to drop into this game, you can check out Ullr’s Revenge, a third-party supplement written by Ripley Caldwell.