#The Fragrance Hero: Aroma

[satellite-evans]

Could you do Benedict Bridgerton with wife reader? She was pregnant and Bridgerton went to a ball. There's a man who makes a move on her and Ben is jealous. Then he saw that the man started to get all touched with his wife and she was clearly uncomfortable. Ben was her knight in shining armor and warned that man 😍 Do it how you want. Thanks !! :))

Handsome Hero

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x reader

Summary: Benedict's protective instincts flared when an unwanted admirer made his pregnant wife uncomfortable.

Word count: 847

Warnings: Fluff, asshole lord who does not know about boundaries

A/N:

Hi nonnie, I want to thank you for your request and for trusting me with writing your idea! I hope you'll like it xx

English is not my first language, so I apologize if I made any (grammar) mistakes. Feedback, requests, recommendations, vents or questions are always welcome. I love talking to you guys about anything <3

Happy reading xxx

I do NOT give permission for my work to be translated or reposted on here or any other site.

The grand ballroom of Bridgerton House was abuzz with laughter and lively conversation. The annual summer ball was in full swing, and the air was thick with the sweet fragrance of blooming roses intertwined with the rich aroma of fine wines and exquisite dishes. The grand chandelier sparkled above, casting a warm golden glow over the elegantly dressed guests. Women in vibrant gowns and men in crisp suits twirled around the dance floor, their movements synchronized to the lively music of the orchestra.

Benedict stood near the refreshment table, a glass of champagne in his hand. His eyes frequently drifted towards his beloved wife, who was standing across the room. You were the epitome of grace, your hand resting gently on your slightly rounded belly, a soft smile gracing your lips as you chatted with Lady Danbury. Your gown, a soft pastel color, accentuated your natural glow, and the delicate lace trim fluttered with each subtle movement.

His heart swelled with love and pride. How radiant you looked tonight, he thought, the very picture of maternal beauty. Your laughter was a melodic counterpoint to the music, a sound that never failed to bring a smile to his face. But even as he basked in his admiration, a shadow of concern crossed his mind. He had noticed a certain gentleman, Lord Prescott, paying you undue attention throughout the evening. Prescott was notorious for his flirtatious behavior, and Benedict’s protective instincts were on high alert.

You were in the middle of a conversation with Lady Danbury, her witty remarks keeping you entertained, when you felt Prescott’s presence. His voice interrupted your chat, smooth yet unsettling.

“Good evening, Lady Bridgerton,” he drawled, his eyes glinting with an all-too-familiar mischief. “You’re looking particularly radiant tonight.”

You offered a polite but distant smile. “Thank you, Lord Prescott. I trust you are enjoying the ball?”

“Oh, immensely,” he replied, his gaze lingering on you a moment longer than necessary. He inched closer, his presence imposing. “But I must say, the evening has just improved considerably.”

Lady Danbury’s sharp eyes flicked between you and Prescott, her brow furrowing slightly. She gave you a subtle nod, recognizing your discomfort and excusing herself with a promise to catch up later.

You tried to steer the conversation towards safer topics, but Prescott was relentless. He leaned in, his hand brushing against your arm. The touch sent a shiver of unease down your spine. You stepped back, but he closed the distance, his fingers trailing down your arm lingering a moment too long.

“So, tell me,” he continued, ignoring your clear discomfort. “How are you finding the evening in your...delicate condition?” His eyes darted to your belly, a lecherous smile playing on his lips.

You stiffened, trying to maintain your composure. “Quite enjoyable, thank you,” you replied curtly. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I should rejoin my husband.”

But Prescott was undeterred. “Surely he won’t mind if I steal a moment of your time,” he said, his hand drifting dangerously close to your waist. “It’s not often one gets to converse with such a captivating lady.”

Benedict’s heart lurched as he saw the discomfort flash across your face. His protective instincts roared to the surface. Setting his glass down with a decisive clink, he strode across the ballroom, weaving through the throng of guests with purposeful steps.

He arrived just as Prescott leaned in, his hand now resting on your waist. “Prescott,” Benedict’s voice cut through the air, sharp and cold as steel. The man turned, surprise and a hint of fear flickering in his eyes. “I believe my wife has had enough of your company.”

Prescott straightened, a smirk playing on his lips. “Bridgerton, always the gallant knight. We were merely conversing.”

Benedict’s eyes narrowed, his protective instincts roaring to the surface. "From where I stand, it appears you were overstepping the bounds of decency. My wife is clearly uncomfortable."

Prescott’s smirk faltered under Benedict’s intense gaze. “I suggest you find your entertainment elsewhere,” Benedict continued, his tone leaving no room for argument. “Before I forget my manners.”

Prescott paled slightly, mumbling an apology before slinking away into the crowd.

Benedict turned to you, his expression softening instantly. He gently cupped your face in his hands, his thumbs brushing your cheeks. “Are you alright, my love?” he asked, his voice a tender whisper.

You nodded, leaning into his touch. “I am now. Thank you, Benedict.”

He pulled you into a gentle embrace, careful of your growing belly. “I will always protect you,” he murmured into your hair. “You and our child.”

You smiled, wrapping your arms around him. “I know. You’re my knight in shining armor. My very handsome hero.”

He pressed a kiss to your forehead, his heart full. “And you are my everything.”

As the music swelled and the dance floor filled once more, Benedict led you to the edge of the room, finding a quiet corner where you could rest and enjoy the rest of the evening in peace. His hand never left yours, a constant reminder of his unwavering love and protection.

[lvoryingrid]

Sweet Serenity Bakery.

Hawks x fem!Reader

Synopsis: In the bustling city, the Number 2 hero, Hawks, stumbles upon Sweet Serenity Bakery, a hidden gem emitting an irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods. The bakery, a haven from the chaos, becomes Hawks' nightly retreat, and the enchanting baker, (Y/n), captures his attention.

The city lights had dimmed to a mere whisper as Hawks descended from his nightly patrol, fatigue weighing on his crimson wings. The wind, gentle and soothing, whispered through Hawks' golden locks with a caress that felt like a soft melody. Each strand danced in harmony with the breeze, creating a tranquil symphony of movement. The cool embrace of the air carried a serenity that seemed to untangle the knots of stress and fatigue, leaving behind a feeling of weightlessness. He closed his golden eyes, allowing the calming sensation to wash over him. It was as if nature itself had taken a moment to cradle him in its arms, offering a brief respite from the chaos of the world below.

The ambient city sounds faded away as Hawks followed the enchanting trail of a sweet symphony. The air carried the irresistible scent of freshly baked goods, a warm and comforting melody that lured him towards a hidden haven. As he turned the corner, the bustling noise of the city gave way to a tranquil quietude, and there it stood – a bakery, like a secret sanctuary waiting to be discovered. The aroma, a delicate blend of caramelized sugar, vanilla, and the rich scent of perfectly baked dough, hung in the air like a fragrant embrace. The tantalizing notes mingled with the cool breeze, creating an ethereal invitation that beckoned Hawks to step inside. The bakery's exterior, adorned with a vintage sign and the soft glow of warm lights, exuded a nostalgic charm, as if it held the promise of timeless indulgence within its walls. Unable to resist the magnetic allure, Hawks pushed open the door, and the tinkling of a small bell announced his arrival. The interior unfolded like a storybook scene – shelves adorned with baskets of pastries, the golden glow of a counter displaying a tempting array of treats, and the air thick with the scent of freshly brewed coffee.

Intrigued, Hawks took a step further, and the bakery welcomed him with a comforting ambiance. It was a retreat from the chaos outside, a place where time seemed to slow down, and the worries of the world were momentarily replaced by the promise of sweetness. The interplay of warm hues and the aroma of baked delights created an atmosphere that felt like a warm hug, wrapping around him and inviting him to savor the simple pleasures within.

A girl stood behind the counter, her face bathed in the soft glow of the warm, ambient lighting that adorned the bakery. The air was infused with the delectable fragrance of freshly baked goods, creating an atmosphere of pure indulgence. Her apron, dusted with a hint of flour, bore the mark of a baker deeply immersed in her craft. Her warm smile was an invitation, a genuine welcome that resonated with the sweetness that filled the air. The gentle clinking of mixing bowls and the occasional hum of the coffee machine created a soothing melody, adding to the comforting ambiance. As she extended her warm greeting, her eyes sparkled with a passion for her creations, and her voice, like a melody, carried the essence of the bakery. "Welcome to 'Sweet Serenity Bakery.' What can I get for you?" The scent of cinnamon lingered in the air, wrapping the scene in an aromatic embrace, inviting Hawks to indulge in the sweet serenity that awaited him.

As Hawks approached the counter, the scent of freshly baked goods became even more pronounced, wrapping around him like a comforting embrace. The air hummed with the melody of soft tunes from the old radio, blending seamlessly with the tantalizing aroma that danced through the space. "Just a coffee, please. And whatever your favorite pastry is," Hawks requested, his voice carrying a rare gentleness that seemed to be drawn out by the bakery's ambiance. The girl's (e/c) eyes sparkled with appreciation as she prepared his order. The counter displayed an array of choices, each pastry a small masterpiece. The air was thick with anticipation as she carefully selected a pastry, presenting it with a genuine smile. "Here you go," she said, her voice echoing the warmth of the bakery. "One cup of our finest coffee and my personal favorite – the raspberry almond croissant. I hope you enjoy it." Hawks accepted the offerings with a nod of gratitude, and as he took a sip of the coffee, the rich flavor warmed him from the inside. The first bite of the pastry brought a symphony of textures – the flaky layers, the sweet raspberry filling, and the crunch of almond. Hawks turned his attention back to the baker behind the counter who seemed to embody the very spirit of the bakery. The genuine smile on her face hinted at a passion for her craft, and the twinkle in her eyes suggested a depth of warmth that went beyond the delectable pastries.

"You know," Hawks began, his golden eyes meeting hers, "I don't think I caught your name." Her smile widened, and she leaned casually against the counter. "It's (Y/n). And you're... Hawks, right? I've seen you around the city. The number 2 hero with the fiery red wings." Hawks chuckled, appreciating the way she recognized him. "Yeah, that's me. But right now, I'm just a guy enjoying a fantastic cup of coffee and the company of a charming girl." (Y/n) blushed, her playful demeanor shining through. "Flattery will not get you extra pastries, you know." Hawks continued to sip his coffee, a mischievous glint in his golden eyes. "Well, (Y/n), I guess I'll just have to rely on the irresistible allure of your pastries then. They seem to have a way of sweetening the deal." (Y/n) laughed, the sound like a delightful melody in the cozy space of the bakery. "You're quite the smooth talker, Hawks. But pastries are limited, so don't get your hopes too high." He leaned against the counter, the air between them charged with a playful energy. "No worries. I'm not here for the pastries alone, you know. It's the whole package – the warmth of this place, the aroma that wraps around you like a hug, and, of course, the captivating company." (Y/n)'s blush deepened, and she retorts "You certainly know how to make a girl feel special, Mr. Number 2 Hero." He chuckled, appreciating the banter. "Well, (Y/n), it's not every day that I stumble upon a bakery that feels like a hidden treasure in the city. And it's certainly not every day that I meet a charming baker who knows how to make even the simplest cup of coffee feel like magic."

As days turned into weeks, Sweet Serenity Bakery became more than just a place for Hawks; it became a refuge, a sanctuary that beckoned him with an irresistible charm. The bakery's warmth and the sweet notes of laughter echoing within its walls drew him in like a moth to a flame. Night after night, Hawks found himself gravitating to the doorstep of the bakery after his patrols. The scent of fresh pastries and the inviting glow of warm lights greeted him, a beacon of comfort in the quiet corner of the city. Each visit brought with it the promise of shared moments with (Y/n), who had become a fixture in his routine. Inside the bakery, the atmosphere shifted with each arrival of the hero. (Y/n) would look up from her work, a welcoming smile curving her lips. "Hey Hawks, the usual?" she would ask, already knowing the answer, as if the bakery itself had memorized his preferences.

The counter, once a place for casual exchanges, now held an undercurrent of familiarity. The air crackled with a tension that mirrored the conflicting emotions within him. The bakery, now became a stage where the subtle undercurrents of possessiveness played out. Hawks, couldn't help it as he stood at the counter, golden eyes fixed on (Y/n) as she prepared his order. The aroma of coffee and pastries seemed to swirl around him, but his focus was singular – (Y/n), the captivating baker who had unintentionally become the center of his nightly routine.

As other patrons entered the bakery, Hawks couldn't shake the surge of protectiveness that welled within him. His gaze lingered longer than usual on those who approached (Y/n), and an invisible barrier seemed to form around her, guarded by the wings that were once symbols of heroism but now became shields of possessiveness. (Y/n), unaware of the internal struggle unfolding before her, greeted each customer with the same warmth that had initially drawn Hawks in. However, as the bakery buzzed with activity, the jealous ember within him flared brighter. Hawks found himself standing a little too close, intercepting conversations with a subtle territorial edge, his actions fueled by a longing to keep (Y/n) exclusively within the sphere of his attention.

"You're becoming a regular here, Hawks. What's the secret behind your sweet tooth?" she looked up from her task, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of her lips. Hawks, caught off guard, couldn't help the accelerated beat of his heart. The playful banter masked the possessiveness that had taken root, but the intensity of his gaze spoke volumes. He cleared his throat, trying to maintain composure. "Well, (Y/n)," he began playfully, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness, "I suppose the secret is the irresistible charm of the bakery and its owner." he says with a smirk adoring his lips. (Y/n) chuckled, her (e/c) eyes meeting his with a knowing glint. "Smooth talker as always, Hawks. But there's more to it, isn't there? I can see it in your eyes." Hawks felt a mix of vulnerability and desire as he locked eyes with (Y/n). The bustling bakery seemed to fade into the background, leaving only the two of them in a moment of charged silence. The warmth of the bakery, the sweet aroma, and the playful banter were overshadowed by the unspoken tension that crackled between them.

Hawks, however, held her gaze with unwavering sincerity. The usual twinkle in his golden eyes now reflected a mix of desire and possessiveness, emotions that had simmered beneath the surface for far too long. The tantalizing aroma of pastries and the soft hum of the bakery became a mere backdrop to the unspoken tension between them. "It's not just the sweets, (Y/n)," Hawks admitted, his voice a low murmur, "It's you. I can't get enough of you." The words hung in the air, a declaration that shifted the dynamics of their interactions. (Y/n)'s surprise lingered, her playful demeanor replaced by a subtle vulnerability. The air between them thickened with the unspoken truth, each passing moment carrying the weight of an uncharted path. Hawks, unable to restrain the possessiveness that had taken root within him, continued, "I want you to myself. I can't stand the thought of others having a taste of what should only be mine." The possessive edge in his words cut through the air, leaving no room for misinterpretation. Hawks had laid bare the desire to claim (Y/n), not just as a friend or a fleeting connection but as something more, something exclusive. The revelation hovered in the space between them, a palpable tension that awaited (Y/n)'s response.

As he awaited her response, the seconds felt like an eternity, and the symphony of the bakery's sounds became a distant hum. The golden glow of the lights overhead cast a warm hue on Hawks, his usually confident demeanor now tinged with vulnerability. The beat of his heart, once steady, quickened with every passing moment. The mixture of desire, possessiveness, and the uncertainty of (Y/n)'s reaction created a storm in Hawks' mind. The air, thick with the heady scent of baked goods and the promise of something more, seemed to press in on him, amplifying the racing rhythm of his heart. Each passing second heightened the intensity of the moment, and Hawks, for all his heroic exploits, found himself standing at the precipice of something new and uncharted. The subtle tension in the air mirrored the tempest within him, leaving him acutely aware of the fragility of the connection he had just exposed.

A sly grin danced on (Y/n)'s lips, the playful banter now shifting into a more intimate territory. The air, thick with the aroma of pastries and the unspoken tension between them, seemed to crackle with anticipation. Closing the gap between them, she leaned in towards Hawks, her voice a tantalizing whisper that sent shivers down his spine. "I get off work at 9," she said, her words carrying a flirtatious undertone that hung in the air like a secret shared between them. The proximity between their bodies created an intimacy that transcended the bustling bakery around them, making the moment feel like a stolen secret in the midst of a crowd.

As she leaned in, Hawks, overcome by the intoxicating blend of emotions, mirrored her movements. Closing the remaining distance, he gently cradled her face in his hands, his golden eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that spoke volumes. The warm glow of the bakery lights framed the scene, turning the space between them into a sanctuary where time seemed to pause. Their lips met in a soft, lingering kiss, a fusion of warmth and sweetness that transcended the flavors of the pastries surrounding them. The world outside ceased to exist as the bakery, with its aroma of baked goods and the hum of daily life, became a backdrop to this intimate exchange.

"See you at 9," Hawks whispered, his words a tender promise that carried the weight of unspoken emotions. With a fleeting glance, he headed towards the door, leaving (Y/n) standing there, her (e/c) eyes wide with a mix of surprise and realization. As the door closed behind him, the ambient sounds of the bakery seemed to return in full force, but for (Y/n), time stood still. Stunned by the unexpected turn of events, she touched her lips, a gentle smile playing on her face as the warmth of the shared kiss lingered.

Masterlist

[call-me-copycat]

I'm so sorry @pink-lemonadae-san ! Tumblr has a nasty problem for me where random drafts of mine go missing for no reason. Luckily I take a screenshot of every ask before saving the draft (since this has happened in the past).

➤ Welcome

Request rules, info about me, and links to all my masterlists

♡ ••┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈•• ♡♡ ••┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈•• ♡

▶ Pairing: Tamaki Amajiki x GN Reader

▶ Genre: Fluff (tiny bit of a slowburn), Romance

▶ Word Count: 11,800 (Exactly!)

▶ Story Notes:

- "Shokupan" is just Japanese for Milk Bread

- I began writing this during Golden Week, but it's over now (Apr 29 - May 5)

- Golden Week is a series of festivals and holidays in Japan, but I didn't go into much detail with it in the story

▶ Warnings: None (Although I might want you warn you that this isn't exactly the best I've written since I'm not very good with romance >///<)

The bell chimed by the door, the light ringing making its way throughout the little bakery. Golden ribbons of sunlight were just barely beginning to peak through the windows, coating the entire shop in its sleepy yet cozy filter.

It was early in the morning, much earlier than when most people got up for the day, but as a baker you saw it as your duty to fulfill the daily tasks for your job - no matter how tedious or dull. It was what got you your job, after all.

Just as any other day customers filed in and out in wide, nearly empty groups, the early morning crowd mainly consisting of office workers, students and teachers, tired night-shift workers ready to rest, and sometimes a hero or two if you got lucky enough.

The syrupy aroma of various pastries, breads, and sweets filled the shop in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The sweet fragrance was something you had enjoyed when you first started working there, but you realized to your disdain you had eventually grown numb to it's smell.

The bell chimed in rhythm with the creaking of the door, accompanied with the sound of the cash register letting out its little clicks and beeps as you paced yourself around the small group of customers. And so the steady rhythm of your everyday life was beginning once again, just as it had done so many times in the past.

Finally, after waving goodbye to a little boy and his older sister you looked up at the clock to realize the early morning rush had finished. It wasn't too bad that day, and since it was the smallest rush of the day it normally helped to wake you up and let you prepare for the bigger crowds that come later on.

Just as you were pulling out a new tray of sweet pastries from where they were sitting in the warm oven, a small commotion gained your attention. The bell on the door rang, and it was quickly followed by three students that came crashing in, clearly in a rush.

Upon closer inspection, you realized that they were most likely around your age. The tallest one had a bright and cheerful smile on his face despite the concern of what time they had on hand, with bright yellow hair to go with his blue eyes.

The girl next to him was also all smiles, with a warm and rather cute expression as she forgot about her surroundings and smushed her face up against the display case that showed what pastries and sweets you sold.

Finally, you didn't even notice the boy standing behind them at first, but after he stepped out to say something to the blond-haired boy you saw that he was much more timid, a shy and nervous expression on his face - some if it being hidden by the indigo colored locks that fell in front of it.

The blonde haired boy was the first that went up to you, the timid boy trying to pry the girl from the case as she went up and down the long glass rows.

"Hey! Is it alright if I get one honey croissant, and- just a sec" he smiled kindly and turned to the other two, a gentle urgency in his voice as he asked them what they wanted.

"Ooh! The mochi! No, wait, the coffee jelly! Wait, wait, wait! I changed my mind, I'm going with the mochi, it looks yummy!" The blue haired girl was ecstatic, jumping around with the energy you felt could compare to an excited 5-year old who wandered in with their mother.

Suddenly, all eyes were on the shy boy, and even as you packaged the orders that were already asked, you could see him visibly shrink under the attention. A small part of you felt a little bad for the boy, so you decided that you'd do something kind to make up for the nervousness he had, especially since you had some extra goodies left over from the night before that you didn't want to go to waste.

"So Tamaki, what's it gonna be?" The blonde asked the shy boy - Tamaki, you learned.

Upon this request, he visibly hunched inwards, stuffing his hands in his pockets and directing his attention to the ground, muttering a simple "I'm fine".

"Nonsense! C'mon buddy, pick something out and then we can head to school - it's on me!" The blonde enthusiastically patted the boy, Tamaki on the shoulder. He seriously didn't seem to want the attention, but nevertheless he still sheepishly pointed at the Milk Bread in the display, a plain yet sweet bread for the less adventurous. You realized he might've just picked something to get the boy's attention off of him for the time being.

Quickly handing the girl her mochi and and placing the honey croissant on the counter, you went to packaging the single piece of Shokupan in its box. Only, before you closed the lid, you got an idea.

The three rushed out of the bakery after paying, and in a way you felt a little accomplished, enjoying the tiny break in routine. It certainly wasn't everyday you met such characters like them, with such contrasting personalities. You could only hope they'd come back for another visit sometime.

As Mirio, Nejire, and Tamaki hurriedly made their way back to UA in order to beat the bell for first hour they snacked on their little pastries, all except Tamaki, who shoved the box into his bag for lunch without even opening it.

It was a typical day at UA, with studying, training, quizzes, and so on. A day that Tamaki felt he could easily handle since the familiar routine with comforting and predictable.

It went this way up until lunch, where he sat confused with a blank look on his face as he started into the box that held his Shokupan he had ordered earlier out of panic. Blinking his eyes, he registered that there wasn't just a single piece of the sweet bread in the box all by its self, but rather it had company.

A cute little cookie sat next to the bread, decorated to look like a little kitty. He normally would've found it charming, but at the moment he felt like a thief.

There was another pastry in the box! What if you put it there by accident?! What was he supposed to do, eat it? Give it back? It had been sitting in his backpack all day, so Tamaki doubted it would still be able to be sold if he gave it back. But he didn't pay for this, was he considered a criminal if the offense was on accident?!

Paranoid thoughts ran throughout his mind, and he struggled to come up with a solution. Mirio looked over, and upon seeing his friend starting intensely at the box with his bread in it, leaned over to check out what was going on.

"Oh, sweet! They gave you an extra!"

Tamaki's eyes flew open at his friends dismissal.

"No! No, they must've put it in here by accident! Mirio what do I do? I can keep this, it's not mine!"

Mirio chuckled reassuringly, patting his nervous friend on the shoulder.

"Well even if it was an accident, I don't think you can give it back-"

Tamaki's panicked expression worsened, but Mirio quickly finished his sentence to avoid being taken out of context.

"- Buut what else can you really do but enjoy it? Besides, there's always the chance they were just being nice!"

Tamaki grimaced as he looked at the little cookie in the box, Mirio's words not reassuring him the slightest. He mentally slapped himself, it was just a cookie! It was probably just 50 yen anyways, why did he always have to overthink everything? Why did he make things so hard for himself?

Before he could decide on what to do, Nejire caught up on the situation and smiled while cheerfully reaching over the lunch table - towards his cookie.

"Hey, it you don't want it I can always eat it for y-"

However, before she could get another word in, Tamaki snapped the little container shut, causing the two pairs of eyes to settle on him due to the unexpected and sudden reaction.

"It's... Fine. It'll be fine"

The two others looked at each other in confusion at Tamaki's sudden change in demeanor, but before either could get a word in, the bell rang and signaled for them to get to class.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

Later at the end of the day, you were just coming home after your own day of work, tired yet fulfilled. It was a fun aspect of your life, getting to bake for people and all. Seeing people eat your own creations and enjoy them was what made it all worth it

As you got ready for the night, you couldn't help but wonder what happened to that shy boy and his friends that visited earlier that morning. They were so entertaining to see, and in a way you felt the most similar to the nervous boy - Tamaki.

It was silly to realize about, but everytime you thought about the boy, you felt a small tug on your heart. For now, you just decided to chalk it up as pity since the poor guy was a shaking mess when you saw him. Maybe he'd visit again with his friends...

The day after was the exact same, making pastries and sweets, serving people, cleaning some, and so on. Only, a small part of you was hoping to see the unlikely trio again, and everytime the door opened your eyes would involuntarily flicker over with a spark of hope.

The day dragged on, and the further it got the smaller your hope would shrink. At the end of the day with no sign of them, you could only sigh and scold yourself for thinking so foolishly, after all they were only customers that visited once.

Just as you were stacking the used trays so they could be put in the dishwasher, a small knocking on the front door caught your attention. Turning, you saw none other than the trio you were hoping to see - well two of the three, that is.

It was only the blond and Tamaki that were standing there, the girl being nowhere in sight. Admittedly, you chuckled to yourself before gesturing for them to turn the handle, only to have to yell in response to further confusion "It's open!"

The blond chuckled and rubbed the nape of his neck, while Tamaki groaned in either embarrassment or annoyance. Perhaps it was a mixture of both.

The door swung open, the bell chimed, and then they were in the shop. Seeing the place near empty (except the one regular who was eating by his lonesome near the back), both their expressions turned a little apologetic.

"Ah! Sorry if you're closing, we-"

The blond got caught off mid-sentence by Tamaki, and this was the first time you saw the boy speak on his own without being pressured.

"We.. We can go. You look busy- don't th-they look busy, Mirio? L-let's not bother them." He tried turning around to leave, tugging his unmoving friend's arm in the direction of the door. Finally he stilled and his shoulders slumped as he looked at his friend who refused to budge, a pathetic and pleading expression on his face. And that's when you felt it again, that thumping of your heart.

"Actually... It may seem empty, but I don't close for another hour." You gave off the warmest smile you could in hopes of reassuring the both that they weren't intruding. The blonde - Mirio, you learned- smiled in response while Tamaki's expression stayed one of pitiful nervousness.

"That's great! We just wanted to visit again to say how much we liked your sweets! They're great, really. Tamaki especially agrees, don't you buddy?" Tamaki groaned his friend's name as his face blossomed into a shade of red at his friends comment, and once again you tried to defuse his anxiety.

"Oh! That's so sweet of the both of you, I have some extras if you'd like one?"

Tamaki waved his hands in front of him, not wanting to deal with the guilt of more free food, while Mirio was about to ask something.

You cut the both off with a genuine smile, "No, really it's okay! It's technically regulation to get rid of the day's batch since we can't use or sell it the next day, so you'd be helping to not let some of that go to waste. Y'know, only if you want of course"

They both looked at you, watching them eagerly with your hands clasped together and a bright smile stretched across your lips. Tamaki felt his face grow hot and his heart speed up, and in a panic he gasped out and clutched his shirt, confused on this newfound feeling and not knowing what to make of it.

Mirio didn't hear any objections from his friend, so he looked over and assumed Tamaki was just panicking over the social settings again. Taking matters into his own hands once more, Mirio smiled and accepted for the both of them.

And so, that's how they walked out each with a small box of slightly stale (yet yummy) treats, courtesy of you being the kindest baker they've met so far.

They walked across the little town, the rays of the sun slowly lowering, it's golden streaks begrudgingly being torn from the surfaces it once covered. Since it was cool, people were out and about as they pleased, cleaning their shops, playing in the park, going shopping, walking pets, and so on.

The evening was nice and calm, allowing Tamaki's chaotic thoughts to settle down once again. Mirio was already eating his way through the box he was given, while Tamaki could only clutch his tightly in his grip.

He thought back to you in the bakery, with your kind smile and genuine atmosphere. Of course he noticed how everytime he became panicked your eyes would flicker over to him. Only, instead of the typical curiosity or pity, he saw something else in your expression. Relation. Familiarity. You understood how he felt, what his position was like.

The fluttering in his chest grew at the thought, and he could barely restrain this feeling of desire and longing that surrounded him everytime he thought of... You.

It was stressful and chaotic.. but it was pleasant. A feeling that wasn't like any other he's experienced before. After so many years of so much anxiety, finally getting someone who knew what it was like and finally feeling some emotion that was a joy to experience... It a freeing in a way.

The sun glittered where it sat, the golden beams of light stretching over Tamaki's face as he conclusively came to terms with what he was feeling by finally taking a bite of the cookie you gave him. And a newfound satisfaction filled his head, his emotions swirling around in a sweet mixture of chaos and joy.

After that interaction with them, you began to see the trio everyday, and they let you know that they had dubbed your bakery as their new hangout spot since they were there so often. It was never set in stone though, because sometimes you'd see all three, other times you'd just see two or one of them. Either way, it flattered you to have a new set of regulars visiting on the daily.

A new rhythm was put in place as they squeezed their way into your life, and as the weeks passed you slowly saw them less as customers, but more at friends.

You had already talked to most of them individually a few times, but you noticed that Tamaki rarely came by himself, mainly with one of the two. He talked everytime he was spoken to, but you could never get him to speak freely on his own.

Truth be told, each time Tamaki tried to approach you, his emotions would get in the way and he'd second-guess himself enough to bail out at the last moment. He couldn't even look your way without you immediately meeting his gaze and smiling, causing his brain to malfunction and his face to erupt in a shade of red. He hated how hard his heart beat in his chest whenever he entered the bakery, the mere thought of seeing you causing his mind to go into overdrive.

You on the other hand began to think his distancing was probably due to lingering anxiety, and so you wanted to do everything you could to get him to trust you more. Both his friends were naturally trusting and friendly people, so they were easy to befriend. Tamaki however, was much harder for you. He'd never reach past the initial point of politeness that you had already passed with the other two. It was shallow, and you wanted something deeper.

Each time Tamaki visited since then, he'd always be greeted first and he noticed you spoke to him much more than you did before. He couldn't shake you off, your kindness was sticky in a way, and it was hard to avoid. It only served to cause his emotions to rush about his head more aggressively, and as much as he was flattered to have your attention on him, there was only one problem. He wasn't good with attention, whether it good or bad.

Every night he laid on his bed, pondering how he would go about this. He couldn't just tell you about his feelings, what if you were just being kind because of your job? No, that wasn't an option for him, it was unprofessional.

He so desperately wanted to look you in the eyes and pour out everything that he was holding in his heart. To have your eyes set on him while he let his thoughts and feelings loose made him clutch his heart over his shirt, the mere idea thrilling but terrifying.

Every smile given his way caused his heart to thrum with elation, and every pastry you gave him made his head buzz with thoughts, always so loud and overthinking on the inside. It was a contrast only he knew of.

To be so excruciatingly chaotic and loud beneath the quiet and somber surface was nothing but a secret held past closed lips. He wanted to open up everything he held inside and let you in, you being the key to his lock. Truth be told, Tamaki was tired of holding it all in. Your welcoming nature and caring behaviors made him feel safe around you, as if he could just hug you and melt away as all his stress was lifted from him.

His thumping heart and doubtful thoughts made themselves known, and that's when he remembered what was keeping him from you. A chain of his own mind was the strongest leash that held him down. As much as he didn't want to be a prisoner of his own creation, he found that no matter how much he struggled he just couldn't loosen the reigns that his mind held over his heart.

And so, all he could do was to continue visiting the bakery, simply being glad to see your face wherever he could. Your sweet remarks were what made his day, being music to his ears. Tamaki had never met such a kind soul before, and he was absolutely captivated by your charms.

Soon enough, he began visiting more frequently on his own, and you were thrilled with the thought that he was getting more comfortable around you. Each time he visited you'd always send him with a little goodie bag with a pastry or two, something that you normally wouldn't do for just anyone.

There were only a few key encounters that you remembered with him. One was when you were closing up, with Tamaki sitting at one of the tables and keeping you company since you were by yourself that night. You had to walk home since the train was down that day, and Tamaki had offered to walk you there - for safety, of course.

"Are you sure?"

You hadn't wanted to push him so far out of his comfort zone.

"...It's dark. It wouldn't be safe you to walk on your own. Sorry."

And so you accepted, the two of you walking side by side until you got to where you lived. It was the fact that it was something out of the ordinary that made the memory so important to you. Along with the realization that he had come to you on his own advances, surely that could be a sign of acceptance or comfort?

Either way, you cherished the thought, and you held onto it with a rigorous hope blooming in your heart, growing only with each interaction.

As time moved on, the three continued visiting as much as they could, and you even spent some time with them outside of the bakery. Small festivities were being held since the one and only Golden Week was coming up, and they each invited you to come with them to the festivals and parades in the coming week.

The air buzzed with excitement, and the bakery was swamped with cheerful orders as people planned out their celebrations. You even had to go as far as pushing back your closing time just to accommodate all the orders, but you didn't mind too much since it was all in great spirit.

The end of the day approached much faster than you had realized, and you only came to know this due to the trio arriving at their usual time at the end of the day.

"Wow! It's crowded in here! Looks like you're gonna be busy for awhile, huh?" Just the same, Mirio was the first to greet you, with Nejire piping up behind him.

"O-oh, so does that mean you can't hang out?" She asked with slight dejection in her tone, yet it wasn't as prominent as her air of glee that nearly shadowed the small negative moment.

You looked at them with an apologetic smile, promising to take a day off to spend time with them at the festival. They both smiled in response, and Mirio went to Tamaki to hear his thoughts on the idea.

"That sounds fine with us! You can't control work after all, what do you think- ...Tamaki?" Your attention was directed to where the taller boy was looking behind him, and you three were all met with nothing. He wasn't there.

"Hm, I swear he was with us when we arrived!" Mirio's expression was now one of confusion, his brows furrowing.

"Yeah, I wonder- Oh! There he is!" Nejire began, then turned to point outside the door to see the missing boy still standing at the entrance - hands in pockets and trembling slightly.

The three of you turned to see what she was pointing at, and you huffed out a small laugh, realizing that so many people in one area would naturally be Tamaki repellent. So in a way you had no idea what you were expecting, but you weren't upset with the thought - just a little amused.

"Well, I guess that's where he is. I'll be sure to tell him, and we'll come back when it dies down, thanks for having us!" Mirio waved his hand as he held open the entrance door, Nejire skipping out and then waving from behind the glass window (shouting a muffled "bye bye!" that you couldn't fully hear due to the surrounding chatter).

You watched them go for a second, then realized something as Tamaki's eyes sorrowfully met yours, clearly upset with his timidness that caused him to not be able to see you properly due to his apprehensive feelings of being around large crowds.

It was the same look he had in the beginning when you first met him, one of utter powerlessness and regret. You weren't about to undo all the hard work you had built up to befriending him, so you rushed out with a small bag of goodies to help remind him of all your chats and walks.

"Tamaki-kun! Please wait!" The trio all turned almost immediately upon hearing your voice, Tamaki being the quickest to come to a halt and whip around. You were calling out for him, for him. Looking closer, he saw the typical goodie bag and understood your intentions.

"Here." You grabbed his hands and placed the bag gently in them, giving them a squeeze before waving bye to them and rushing back inside to assist your coworkers with the rush.

Tamaki was frozen in place. You held his hands. He couldn't believe it, wouldn't believe it if it didn't just happen in front of him. Mirio and Nejire both looked over, curious at the new information. Mirio then grinned as he realized what was going on, nudging his friend in the side with good hearted intentions.

"So-o~" Tamaki frowned at his friend's teasing voice, directing the gift away from his sight only for Nejire to approach him on his other side and attempt to grab the bag from him with gleeful curiosity.

"It's nothing, seriously" Mirio didn't seem to believe him as he looked at him with a smug grin and waved his eyebrows. Tamaki furrowed his own, and Mirio silently responded with a nonchalant shrug of the shoulders. Before anything else could be said, Nejire turned at Mirio and they both shared a look of understanding before Mirio patted Tamaki and the shoulder.

"Alright, alright, if you say so~"

"I'm serious, Mirio-" He cut Tamaki off with a wave of the hand.

"Yeah, like I said, I get it. We'll just all hang out some other time, 'kay?"

And with that they all walked off, yet Tamaki couldn't forget the expression the two of his friends held, knowing they were always up to something. He'd just have to hope it wasn't anything bad.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

The next morning things began to slow down because your bakery was taking a day off to restock and prepare for the upcoming influx of orders, one of the biggest times of year - only coming second to Christmas and New Years.

It was your favorite kind of day, a day filled with no orders or customers, just baking and decorations and preparing. It was all hands on deck, the bakery set up to be swarmed with workers in the upcoming hours. You had come early to set things up, seeing as you had nothing else planned that day.

As you reached the entrance, you fumbled around your pocket for the key, the feeling of some unknown paper catching your attention. You huffed to yourself, hoping you didn't forget some wrappers in there again, only to be met with a neatly folded note upon pulling it out.

Catching you off guard, you nearly forgot to open up the bakery if it weren't for the sudden clank of your keys hitting the cement as they fell out of your pocket. Opening the doors and setting your things down, you finally unfolded the note to read its contents.

"Dear [Name],

When I first met you, you were the sweetest person I had ever met. You saw something in me others didn't. Your baking skills are unmatched, and your desserts are like little pieces of heaven. I always look forward to coming to the bakery just to see you.

If you want to find me, follow the upcoming clues. Find the next clue where you usually get your special ingredients.

- Your Secret Admirer"

Red began to coat your cheeks as your face warmed upon reading the note. Rereading it over another two times to make sure you didn't miss anything, you simply stood in shock, not knowing what to make it the sudden event.

It couldn't have been a person playing a prank, right? But then, why would they go through the efforts to write such a sweet note? It didn't make any sense to you... and all of a sudden it hit you. What if Tamaki-...?

Shaking your head, you pushed the thought away. He could've... He wouldn't... Right? But it did make sense with how shy he was... But he's not the type to do that! Right?

For a split second you considered dumping the note somewhere and starting work, when a flicker of curiosity got sparked on by a sliver of hope.

Maybe...

You'd give it a shot, after all what harm could a little game cause? Hopefully it'd be quick.

You read over the note once more, and immediately pinpointed the spot, as the "special ingredients" of yours were simply things that were prepared for the festivals.

You went out to the kitchen, and as you opened the pantry you saw white in the corner of your eye.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

Meanwhile, Tamaki was getting ready to walk back to his home after training at UA - a daily occurrence on weekend mornings. Packing his things in his duffle bag, he jumped a bit upon hearing a crinkling after shoving a piece of his equipment in the bag. Hoping he didn't forget or damage something important, he took out a few things one at a time until he found the source.

A cute little note was sitting in his bag, surrounded by his clothes and training gear. A shiny red heart sticker decorated the front flap, and it was milk white. Not being able to do anything but stare at it in shock, Tamaki swallowed thickly, the note seemingly weighing heavily upon him.

He gently brought it out, hands shaking as he looked at it. His mind once again went into overdrive, thoughts pushing in and flying out all around his head.

On one hand, he didn't want to raise his hopes up only to be crushed. He was given enough joke letters in middle school to know better, and the memories of it caused him to break into a cold sweat as he stared the note in indecisive agony.

Then again... There was the (ever so small) chance that it could've been real. He didn't want to think about the logic, Tamaki only wanted this to end without anything bad happening. There was no shame in opening it, after all.

He delicately unfolded the note, taking a deep breath before reading its contents.

"My dear Tamaki,

You're always one of my favorite faces to see each day. You light up my day and you have the true heart of a hero!

If you want to find me, follow these clues: To find the next note, go to the spot that's filled with life in the air fluttering around you.

I look forward to seeing you!

~ Your Secret Admirer "

Nope. He couldn't do it. A simple note was one thing, but a whole search was another. What if he was led on? What if it was nothing but a prank? No, he couldn't handle the embarrassment.

He folded it and put it in his pocket, hiking his bag over his shoulder as he left UA high. As he made his way throughout the streets, he couldn't help but continually think about that note.

What if it really was someone that made it for him out of love? What if they were waiting somewhere for him? And how disappointed would they be if he didn't show up?! They'd think he was a jerk!

Tamaki stopped in the middle of the sidewalk and gripped his bag tighter under his hands. Looking down at the ground with an agonized expression, he didn't know what to do. He didn't like drama, and he certainly didn't want to in middle of something like this, completely the dark.

Well.. 'fluttering'...

He had a small idea of where the other note might've been. Maybe taking a small detour wouldn't hurt...

Tamaki breathed in to ease his nerves. If it got to be too much he wouldn't push himself, he'd just quit.

He turned and made his way to the park, heading straight for his favorite area where the butterflies liked to group since there were clusters of flowers over there. He looked around, in no hurry and simply enjoying scenery. That's when he saw a note taped to the large oak tree- right where he liked to sit and do his work sometimes.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

You turned to see the note that was sitting ever so delicately over the ingredients. You plucked it off from the wall it was taped to, and quickly opened it to read it.

"Dear [Name],

Your bright personality fills my day with joy. The way you treat your customers shows me you have a big heart of gold. You're much too sweet for this world!

The next note is placed where a statue of gold stands with its fist in the air.

See you there! ♡

~ Your ever so loving Admirer "

Gold? Gold... You thought about it for a second before immediately remembering the All Might statue that stood on the center of taken, decked completely in gold paint.

Town square... You knew it'd be quite busy with preparations and festivals, but you still went seeing as it was close by. Your coworkers were doing just fine, and everything was ahead of schedule, so why not?

A quick trip on your bike and you were there. The area was buzzing with activity, and you had to swerve around groups of people just to get to the statue.

Upon arrival, you looked up at the statue standing mighty and towering over everyone. Some people had placed Boy's Day carp streamers on the sides and some necklaces on the neck of the golden All Might. You laughed a little, enjoying how he was always decorated, before circling around to search for the note.

Panic began to seep through you as you circled twice and came across no sign of a note. They said golden, right? You knew of no other golden statue in the area, the only other one being a golden flame all the way in Tokyo.

Your eyebrows creased, and worry gnawed at you as you frantically searched all over the statue. Only to come up with nothing. Was this it?

Sighing, you turned to leave, disappointment weighing heavily upon your heart. Before you could take more than 3 steps, a sudden tap on your shoulder caught you off guard, and you turned to see a friendly looking lady smiling at you while offering you something. Initially thinking it was a free sample, you tried to decline, only for your eyes to widen in realization. Looking closer, you saw that she was holding a white letter with a shiny red heart sticker holding it closed.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

As Tamaki went over to the tree to pull off the note, he began to hope that all this wasn't some elaborate trick. From all the little notes you put in the bags you gave him that held the pastries, he began to suspect this wasn't even the same handwriting.

He opened the note to read it, hoping this game wasn't going to last too long. It was beginning to get tiring living in a state that was a mixture of hope and worry.

"Dear Tamaki,

I'm so proud of you combating your anxious thoughts everyday, I know it's hard. Your courageousness certainly benefits! You help so many people each day, you're a true hero, through and through!

Go find next note where you took down your first villain. See you there!

~ Someone who admires you with all their heart"

These notes were getting to be too much for him. Why did this have to happen? He finally catches the eye of someone, and he can't even know who they are unless he plays this game.

It was a little enjoyable though, the unfamiliar events causing him to rethink so many aspects he once held about himself and his life. It was eye opening, too bad it had to be shoved in his face for him to see it.

Gently folding the note and placing it with the others in his pocket, he sat back and thought. Now.. where did he take down his first villain? What could be considered his first win?

The more he thought about it, the more shocked he grew at the number of things he's accomplished over the years. He didn't think it all added up to much, but just trying to remember a certain event that happened his first year of secondary school all seemed like so much alone.

Racking his brain, he came up with a small list of villains he took down around the same time.

There were three instances he remembered, but he just couldn't pinpoint the first if asked. Panic ensued, and he started hyperventilating until he calmed himself down.

'Let's think logically now...'

The first one was more of a con-man than a hero, tricking innocent civilians into believing his lies about heroes and trying to get people to buy his quirk supplements. Tamaki scratched that one off the list, the man put up no fight.

The second one was a cult member who believed quirks were the downfall of society. She had set up an elaborate trap in the center of town, where numerous stands, shops, and people were. It was busy, with vendors selling food, ingredients, and supplies.

She had tried building several barricades around the area and blowing it up, but ultimately failed after Tamaki got to her first. Now that he thought about it, he remembered that in a last ditch attempt she had grabbed a hostage and threatened to use her quirk on them. He was sure he had taken the lady down himself.

Then the third was simply a person who could alter photos on any piece of media. They had tried violently assaulting a hero to frame them and pretend that heroes hurt innocent civilians unprovoked. Tamaki was quick to take them down, even with as sneaky and sly as they were with escaping.

Picking through his options, he decided to go with the second one. The one in town square. The place that was currently crowded full of people celebrating Golden Week...

He gulped at the thought.

The white paper crinkled and deformed in his shaking grip as he clutched it tighter unconsciously at the thought. He'd only have this one chance find out if it was worth it...

Truth be told, Tamaki knew he had to train himself on getting better on dealing with crowded spaces, seeing as he going to be a full fledged hero one day. He just didn't think it'd be so soon.

It was now or never...

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

You looked at the note the mysterious lady had given you with a blank expression. It held no letters of affirmation like the others except for an "Almost there!".

On it was a map. A map you weren't familiar with. You recognized the very place you were standing, and decided to break it down into chunks. You saw the statue... And took a few steps in the direction of the arrows until you saw a crooked sign that matched the one on the map. One step at a time, you followed the steps on the map to the best of your ability.

It was entertaining in a way, as it reminded you of the pirates you always on the TV when you were little. In a way, you were also hunting for a treasure - it was just a little different than gold coins and shiny jewels.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

Tamaki stood frozen. All around him people bustled about, swerving around him, running past him, carrying heavy, hot, or delicate containers. Talking in loud voices, singing songs, placing decorations on things, running around... It was overwhelming.

For a split second Tamaki wondered if he was in too deep and debated on whether or not he should leave.

'No... It'd be silly to give up this far...'

Steeling himself the best he could, he breathed in and tried to ignore the crowd that caused his body to shake with nerves.

He stuck close to the walls, looking around for a clue, any clue. This letter was so vague, he would be lying if he said he wasn't worried about finding it out not. Even if he were to ask for help, the number of people that would actually be able to direct him or do anything helpful would be too tiny to risk sounding foolish.

Sighing out tiredly, he looked at the sky to see sun lowering. Not to the point to where it was dark, but just enough so it surprised him with how long he had been playing this game. No, he definitely couldn't quit now.

A tap on his shoulder caught him off guard, and he almost jumped into the air if he hadn't been on guard all day. Turning around, he saw no one. Now this was confusing. He simply scratched his head and supposed it was someone playing that tap shoulder game.

Well, he did at first. Until he looked down and saw a note left sitting on the edge of the golden statue, almost as if it was waiting for him. He groaned, knowing what he had to do.

Tamaki clenched his jaw, and hesitantly pushed his way through the crowd of people. Slowly... Slowly... A sharp contrast to the hurried, constantly flowing around him.

People pushed and pulled, the crowd moving in an almost hypnotic manner. It was as if it was alive, like a river winding down the roads of the city. A sea of people that threatened to swallow Tamaki in its deep, dark waters. It swelled, it shrunk. It swerved and straightened. It was like he was looking the beast of his fear directly in its glowing eyes.

And it looked back.

What was supposed to be a short walk normally was stretched out beyond, due to the fact Tamaki had to shuffle around so many bodies that brushed against his.

Closing his eyes, he reminded himself.

'I can do this...'

Opening them, he almost didn't believe it as he looked at statue that sat directly in front of him. He had so many worries and anxious thoughts about whether he could, he didn't stop think about what would happen if he did.

And yet, he was there. The white paper in between his fingertips bearing the weight of his struggles.

He opened it, only to be greeted with a congratulations and a map...

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

You had struggled a bit and had to restart after mistaking a certain shop for the one on the map. This time, you decided you'd give it your all.

The sun was setting lower and lower in the sky, the purple color taking place of the bright orange, and the darker blue (that was almost black) taking place of the purple.

Slowly, more and more lights began flickering to life, and you panicked once again, hoping you weren't slowing things down.

Step by step, slowly but surely you eventually followed the landmarks in a chain, one by one. You let the guide lead you up to a grassy hill in the park next to town, right at a point where you could see both the town festivities and what went on in the grassy field on the other side.

It was a beautiful sight. The sun lowering with the creamy beige and pink clouds surrounding it, the flickering lights as they began to be turned on, streamers and kites rising above the city... It was magical.

You stood, simply enjoying view. You had already saw the note sitting on the tree that stated you had reached the final destination. But you weren't too bothered with that anymore.

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

Tamaki grunted, frowning at the map as he nervously sped around the landmarks it read. He didn't know what was expecting him, but he was tired and the anxiety of not knowing what it was drained him further. He clung onto the hope that whatever it was, it was worth the effort. He didn't know what he'd do if it was all a joke. The pain would be monumental.

He passed the statue. He curved around the bent sign. He walked past the shop. Following all these steps diligently, Tamaki was determined to make the most of his time and effort. It had to be worth it. He really hoped so.

As he was walking, Tamaki began thinking. That villain he took down... Memories began surfacing, vague and fuzzy. It was difficult, trying to bring something into sight when you can't even remember what it was you wanted to see. The more he thought, the more a distant shape began to take place, unstable and quick to fall apart if looked at too long, too delicate to handle.

Now that he thought about it, your face looked so favorite familiar...

However, Tamaki didn't have much time to think about it as he looked up to see a grassy hill - the end point of this whole thing.

He stalled, now suddenly feeling shy and timid. He remembered the initial fears he had when he first started this game, and now he didn't know what he should do.

Only, he looked up at the hill, and those fears went away. Because standing at the top, in all your glory... Was you.

You were looking off to the side, looking at the beautiful scene that played out in front of you, the golden and orange colors of the setting sun swathing you in its sheet of light, only serving to further cement the look of grace and elegance that surrounded you. You hadn't noticed him standing at the bottom of the hill, too occupied with the gentle landscape ahead of you, a look of bliss adorning your face.

And at that moment, for the first time Tamaki felt... Calm.

Calm when normally his heart would be breathing out of his chest.

Calm when normally he would've broken out into a cold sweat.

Calm when normally his head would be barraging him with terrible, fearful thoughts.

All he felt was at ease. And it was amazing, astounding even. He normally only felt comfortable whenever he was at his own house, alone.

Yet, looking at you gave him a sense of comfort, a feeling that he couldn't explain, only feel and experience.

And that's when he remembered.

All those years ago during his first year of UA, he had started interning with Fatgum. His anxiety back then was eternally much, much, worse. So much farther behind his peers, Tamaki had wondered if he'd even make it out as a hero. When all his classmates were already being seen as future heroes, when they had already taken down too many criminals and villains to count... He was still hiding his face in the wall.

He wasn't even on the clock that day, he had just been strolling around and enjoying a calm, cool day. It began to get crowded, and naturally he went to leave to somewhere less populated.

And that's when he ran into a shady figure with the same idea. There was a lady who had been walking around, hands in pockets and head down. He knew something was wrong, but he doubted his judgement.

The actual fight was blurry, he didn't remember much of that. Just the fact that he saw her placing what he knew was explosives, and a chase ensued where he also saw her locking in gates, doors, and walls to keep people from escaping.

He had looked around for a hero, nervous about whether or not he could actually do this alone. All his classmates at least had the wisdom of their mentors at their side... He was alone.

He had to steel himself that day for the first time. He had to scream at himself in his head that if he didn't do something because of his anxiety, people would die.

And he fought. And he was ahead. He was winning. The lady wasn't the best with combat, but she still put up quite a fight. Yet, Tamaki was winning, he had the upper hand. It was thrilling, yet terrifying. But still, he'd do it again to prevent the deaths of innocent people.

However at that moment, the lady split off and ran into the crowd, and Tamaki followed her without thought. He only knew something was up when a ring of shouting and worried people started to form, and he had followed the crowd. Only to see the lady holding a random person she had grabbed from the crowd, holding her hand against their head. And that person..

Was you.

It was you.. Tamaki couldn't believe he forgot. He knew your face looked familiar.

He had defeated the lady, and you had thanked him in abundance, a sweet smile decorating your relieved face.

After that, you had walked off. Only, right before that he remembered you had reached into your bag to hand him something.

What was it again?

Tamaki toiled adamantly, trying to piece together the random floating fragments of memories that flew around the vastness of his head. He thought about the past and the present, trying to come to a logical result.

Was it a trinket? No, he would've kept it.

How about a small drawing or something? No, he wouldn't put it in his pocket, and he remembered there was nothing in there.

What was it? You were a baker, so he began to believe it was a treat of some sort...

He gasped lightly to himself. That's why it all looked so familiar.

It a cookie... Decorated to look like a cat.

Too many things clashed together at once, and all Tamaki could do was look up at you in awe and nostalgia. The sounds around the park had subsided as it was getting darker, people all going inside to prepare before going to come out again in some time.

The empty air whistled around, rustling the trees and giving a slight chill to the both of you as the sun lowered even further into the darkness - not quite gone, yet not quite there.

He looked up at you solemnly once more, taking in a heavy breath as he shook at the implications that awaited him. He looked back to the time you rushed out of the bakery just for him. You had run out to still include him, even if he shied away due to his anxious thoughts.

Now it was his turn.

He walked up the hill, step by step. Bit by bit.

The entire way there he didn't take his eyes off you, not even once. His thoughts were screaming at him in his head, and his face was practically lit aflame. Yet he walked up to you with the practiced stride of that of a hero who had a deep focus he intended to complete.

You watched the sun slowly lowering, the light quivering and distorting the lower it got to the bottom of the horizon. The largest stars began to litter the sky, a balance of grey in a black and white world. Where it's not yet day, nor night.

A slight crunching off to the side caught your attention, and it suddenly hit you. You remembered the game you had played, and you stilled for a second in confusion before turning to see the source of the noise.

Eyes widening in surprise, your breath hitched as you came eye-to-eye with the person you had been wanting to see all day.

Tamaki came to a slow halt once he stood directly across from you. Neither had expected to get this far, yet it was equally desired.

Tamaki's hands broke out into a cold sweat as he trembled in place, scared yet still determined. Your heart hammered in your chest, a look of wonder taking hold of your expression.

"I-"

"You-"

Looking at each other with a bewildered appearance, a grin suddenly formed across your face as you broke out into a fit of snickers, Tamaki joining in with that crooked smile of his. He was eternally grateful you knew how to defuse his nervousness, even without particularly trying.

"I suppose... You got the notes too?"

You chuckled a bit, rubbing the back of your neck. "Yeah, I don't suppose you were the one responsible for them?"

He shook his head, a knowing smile growing on the both of your faces as you recalled two particularly mischievous friends of yours.

"No, it wasn't me, sorry."

He swallowed thickly, quickly deciding to get this over with.

"But..."

He choked on his words a bit, the idea and fear of rejection taking hold once again. He loved having you as a friend, and while the idea of being something more was certainly appealing, he couldn't risk losing what he already had. It was terrifying. Even with that small part that constantly screamed for him to get over it.

You smiled softly, a silent understanding. "But..." You parroted, stepping forward and gently taking his hand in yours.

He felt the connection, and you both went silent, only looking at your intertwined hands. He furrowed his eyebrows, trying to force the words out. All that came out was his hand enclosing yours.

Yet it spoke so much more than words could've.

The sun had completely gone down at this point, leaving the two of you to depend on the few surrounding street lights that were placed farther below. The darkness was comforting in a way, and Tamaki felt a little more at ease without his sight constantly worrying him.

If he looked closely enough however, he could trace the outlines of your face, the soft light of the curved moon lighting up the edges of your jaw and nose, along with adding a slight shimmer to your eyes. The darkness took away most of his sight, but it strengthened his other senses. Such as the feeling of your warm, soft hand in his.

The cool breeze blew by once more. A setting that Tamaki knew he was comfortable with.

You were about to say something, when you felt a gentle tug on your hand. Looking back up, you saw the silhouette of Tamaki looking back at you, gesturing gently downwards towards an empty field of grass at the bottom of the hill.

You silently followed, a giddy grin on your face and fuzzy feelings in your stomach. You both stumbled down, softly laughing at the clumsiness caused because of the lack of light. Your laughter rang out like sweet chimes and bells to Tamaki, and he wanted to hear more. He wanted to see you smile more. For you to be more content. All around him, with him, because of him.

You both came to a stop in the middle of the flourishing grassy area, filled with moist plants trying to cling to your legs and the calming aroma that was caused from the rain that fell the night before. You giggled and grabbed Tamaki's other hand, unknowingly giving him a slight confidence boost that was so badly needed for him.

He smiled at your cheerful state, thrilled that this wasn't going bad as he feared. He looked at you directly, silently diverting your attention to him. Tamaki smiled kindly before turning to look at the expanse of grass that grew tall and short all around you.

You turned to try to see what he was looking at, and Tamaki looked at you from the corner of his eye with a tender smile before softly brushing his arm over some of the taller grasses that grew, causing them to gently sway. You were about to ask him the reasoning behind his odd behavior, but your question died out before you could get it out of your throat.

What had caught your attention was little yellow and golden glowing specks that flickered to life before hazily floating around in the air, some almost as if they were half asleep, others shooting around as if they were a coiled spring waiting to jump to life.

They were fireflies. Tons of them.

You looked up around you in awe, and for a split second Tamaki was grateful for his secluded lifestyle, only knowing of this trick after years of visiting this grassy plain since he was a child. It was a secret only few knew of, and he was more than willing to share it with you. The look on your face caused him no regrets - a first in his life.

You continued looking around at the fluttering orbs of light, their soft glows weakly illuminating the area. It was surreal in a way, and the constant feeling that you were floating around in outer space never left you.

Letting out a soft chuckle, Tamaki gingerly squeezed your hand a little, seeing no way in which he'd allow this moment to be ruined by his nervous thoughts.

Laughing in response, you grabbed his hand tighter in yours, and with you leading the way you both walked around the field together, igniting many more of the fireflies to begin flying around at the disturbance in the grass. All around you now they fluttered, their glow flickering and buzzing. It was as if little stars were surrounding you, always in constant motion.

The sounds of the people beginning to come out started trickling in, fading in from small laughs and chatting and growing into an inferno of singing, clanking, yells and screeches of joy from little children and the barking of a random dog every now and then. The festivals were starting, but luckily they were held on the other side of the park, it being split in two by a thick layer of trees heavy with leaves.

Your attention was brought back to Tamaki again as he feebly tugged your hand once more, avoiding eye contact with you when you turned by directing his attention to ground, timidly rubbing the nape of his neck.

Reaching out a hand, you softly brought his head up to look you in the eyes, offering him a kind smile when he followed suit. He felt inside of his mouth grow dry and his heart skipped a beat. You looked too lovely for him to handle, the light caused by the flames of the lamps being set out illuminating you in a dreamlike manner.

"So... About those notes" you started.

His eyes flickered up to yours for a second before just as quickly flittering back away. "I'm sorry if they caused any trouble... "

He looked down further at the ground, the swaying grass helping to comfort him a bit. He liked being outdoors, being one with nature.

"But... Whatever they held... Ne-never compared to how I really feel about you"

Darn, the stuttering was kicking in. He needed to get his words out or it'll get worse. He didn't think he'd be able to bear the embarrassment.

"Tamaki-"

He grabbed your other hand in shaking grip. All inside, his body and mind was going into overdrive, he was melting from the inside out. His brain screamed and his body trembled. Things were falling apart, deteriorating. But he wasn't going to leave without you at least knowing how he felt. He was terrified. But bravery isn't the absence of fear. It's being courageous in the company of fear. Fatgum taught him that.

Time to be brave.

"I can't keep this from you anymore, and-and I'll understand if you don't feel the same. I-I'll get it..."

He took a deep breath before looking you in the eyes.

"I really don't want to lose you... So ple-please, if this is stupid, please tell me now. I want you in my life anyway I can-"

Before he finished you squeezed his hands, cutting him off. "I can never leave you. I never want you to worry about that, okay?" Your voice was soft and serene.

Tamaki gulped and nodded. "I have this weird feeling when i'm with you, I can't explain it, but I know it's a good feeling..."

"...So please... [Name]"

He squeezed his eyes shut tightly, trying to get it out quickly enough before his mind could retort.

"Iloveyousorry.." (I love you, sorry)

He froze in place, not even bothering trying to take his hands back from you to his side. He simply stilled, every inch of him frozen in terror, worry, and anticipation. He's never even felt this anxious over any of the villains he fought.

A thick silence weighed down upon the two of you as you tried to take it all in. It was heavy, the sheer power of three simple words.

You could see Tamaki beginning to shake more and more, and through his shut eyes you saw small tears forming. Quickly jumping into action, you attempted to calm him down.

"Hey... calm down, it's okay." You rubbed his hands in yours with your thumb, trying to urge him to look up at you. He didn't speak, only shaking his head to the side a bit.

"Tamaki..."

You looked down at the ground too, your own stomach fluttering and heart thumping in your chest. Now it's your turn.

"I... I love you too."

Clearly not expecting that response, Tamaki blinked opened his eyes, slowly pulling his head back up to look at you once again. He looked at you in silence for a second, caught off guard by the response.

"You.." he then pointed to himself, dazed. "M-me...?"

You shook your head, chuckling a little.

"Yes, you. Yes, I love you. It's always been you, just you and only you..."

"You're everything I've always wanted and more..." He whispered lightly, stunned and barely holding it all together. He felt lightheaded, and drunk on joy. His heart no longer beat in aching desperation, but rather now for you. His mind no longer screamed at him but rather sat silently, you being the only one that was able to make the painful words disappear.

The wind bristled the leaves of the trees and caused the tall blades of grass surrounding you to flutter and quiver. Someone was cooking something nearby, because the smell of warm cooked foods wafted through the air. Laughter rung about and filled the area with a sense of comfort.

Time seemed to freeze around the both of you, the feeling of being the only ones to exist engulfing you both entirely as you looked each other eye in loving eye.

You both seemed to be drawn in by each other's presence, as if a magnet was pulling you towards each other. Soon enough, you both were barely inches from each other. You looked up at him, simply enjoying each other's company in comfortable silence.

"Can I... Can I hug you?" You broke the barrier with your question, and for the first time Tamaki saw you nervous. You, the one who was just as boisterous as Mirio and Nejire. You, who was friendly with everyone you ran into. You, who was now standing in front of him, fiddling with your fingers in his hands and switching your weight on each foot as you fidgeted from side to side.

He shook his head, a small tender smile growing on face. "I'd like that..."

You leaned in, a little surprised to see Tamaki leaning in as well to meet you halfway. Both your arms wrapped around each other in a loving, silent embrace. He rested his head on your shoulder, and you noticed his grip was light, too afraid of squeezing you too tight.

Staying that way for a couple minutes, you both visibly relaxed at the relief that came with the realization that it was all over. No more games. No more desperate pinning. No more lonely heartaches. You had him and he had you.

Feeling Tamaki begin to pull away slightly, both your faces warmed when you realized just how close you both were. He stuttered a bit, quietly to himself, before closing his eyes and taking a deep breath.

"Can I... - no sorry, forget I said anything"

He tried diverting his attention to the ground again, although you noticed he never removed his arms from around you, both not wanting to leave the warmth and comfort of the other. You gently brought him to face you again.

"No, no... You can ask me anything. Please don't worry about any judgment from me, I'm not going to get upset with you."

He slightly brought in some air through his teeth, creating a light hissing sound as he debated over it, ultimately deciding to go for it.

"May I... I-is it if I kiss you?" His voice grew quieter as he spoke, until it was almost unintelligible at the end - which it possibly would've been if you weren't so close to him.

Your face warmed as your heart hammered away once again, a shy smile forming on your lips.

"I'd... Like that. Please"

He nodded, and without any further words leaned in, connecting to you in a quick, sweet peck. He pulled away for a second, but you leaned in and crashed your lips against his once more. He froze for a second, face burning hot, before finally melting into your embrace. His hand moved from around your back to settling on your waist, content and comfortable.

The moment was tender and soft, and the two of you were too wrapped up in each other to pay any attention to the fireworks that blazed across the sky in their colorful glory, marking the peak of the festival.

Pulling away, you both looked at each other for a split second, before Tamaki burst into red, pulling you a little closer and nuzzling his head in the crook of your neck, the red reaching all the way up to his ears.

You simply held him close just as he did to you as well, both reveling in the loving solace you brought one another. The fireworks continued to go off. The fireflies were still flickering. People were laughing, and music was still being played.

You smiled as you turned to Tamaki, the smile growing at how content he was while holding you in his arms.

"Tamaki...?"

He opened his eyes, pulling away to look at you clearly. "Yes?"

"Do you want to go look at to festival with me?"

At that moment Tamaki realized just how drained he was. That game had taken most of the day to complete, and being constantly surrounded by people along with the anxiety that was brought on by his worrying about confessing only served to drain him further.

"I'm a little tired..."

"It's alright, we can get something to eat and then head home."

He smiled softly and held you tenderly, completely enamored by how you were so loving and kind.

"I'd like that..."

•°•°•°•°•°•°•

"So-o ~"

Mirio teased Tamaki as they walked through the hallways to the cafeteria.

"I-it's nothing, Mirio" Tamaki groaned in response, regretting having let his friends in on what had went down only a few nights before.

You had both agreed to start seeing each other officially, and soon enough Tamaki became a regular at the bakery you worked at, much to Mirio's and Nejire's delight.

"Seems like it's something to me!"

Nejire piped, am equally teasing look on her face as well.

Tamaki could only groan and hide his face in his hands as Mirio and Nejire congratulated him, with Mirio patting him in the back with his good hearted nature.

Tamaki was eternally grateful he had you in his life. You helped him see things about himself he never knew before, helping to boost his confidence a smidge along with easing his anxiety levels. In a way, you were his new emotional comfort, no longer needing to hide his face in the walls as much (he'd just go to you for a hug instead).

And it was all because of a little cat cookie.

∴∵∴ ୨୧ ∴∵∴ ୨୧ ∴∵∴ ୨୧ ∴∴∵∴ ୨୧ ∴∵∴ ୨୧ ∴∵∴

BONUS:

"I knew she looked familiar!" The blue haired girl exclaimed.

"Yeah, but he's never going to admit he has feelings for her anytime soon, you have any ideas?" The blond boy questioned, his finger on his chin.

"Ooh! I know! What if we write them confession letters, and sign them from each other!" The girl came up with.

"Hmm, I was going to say Scavenger Hunt, but I like that idea too"

The girl hummed in thought, when a mischievous smile broke out across her face.

"Why don't we combine them?"

The blond chuckled, an equally wily smile growing on his own face as well, his blue eyes sparkling playfully.

"I like the sound of that. They'll be sure to have lots of fun!"

Fun for them, maybe.

A/N:

I'm sorry if that wasn't the best! It's not exactly what I normally write, but it was still such fun writing anyways! ୧꒰*´꒳`*꒱૭✧

Also for some reason a lot of my friends were particularly interested in seeing how this one turned out [probably because it's the first romance I've written wwww ( ´⁠ε⁠｀⁠ ⁠) ]

I hope you liked this at least a little, I tried rather hard with this one because I wanted it to be realistic but not boring, and fluffy but not embarrassing to read ヾ（´▽｀）

Requests are open! Tags are open! Feel free to ask anything or let me know of any feedback/comments you have! I appreciate it a lot! (ृ´͈ ᵕ `͈ ृ )

Thank you all again! I hope you have a lovely day! ⁠♡

年2023/月05/日10

[ajgrey9647]

wip wednesday: this is new, and not gonna lie, I am very curious;

Truth in Flowers (working title) – Drakkon (David), Red (Jamie), Prime Tommy Oliver, Prime Jason Scott, Prime Farkas Bulkmeier, Prime Kimberly Hart. Pen pals, a needed parental figure, and coming face to face…again…

Nervously, her fingers gripped the doorknob, the sweat on her tiny palm turning the metal to slickness as she gathered her courage. Kimberly wasn’t sure why she was so anxious. Maybe it was because she was showing up, unannounced, to finally meet the person who had become one of her dearest friends, a mysterious personality behind a screen.

Her soft brown eyes traced the cracks in the sun-faded paint coating the door to the lovely nursery, the panes of glass across the top half offering a view of beautiful blossoms in pots and trays. Even from where she stood on the front steps, the Pink Ranger could smell the rich aroma of fresh soil and floral fragrances.

Kim took a deep breath and forced herself to calm. She had been talking to Jamie for almost a year now, well, maybe not talking in the traditional sense. Starting with their initial introduction on a gardening message board, the two had mostly spoken through the forum before moving into personal emails and chats.

Jamie had gotten her through some really tough times in her life including the loss of her grandmother, her mom remarrying and moving off to Paris, looking at colleges, deciding on what to do with her life. In her forties, the older woman was like a mother figure to Kimberly, patient, kind, encouraging, and acting as her biggest cheerleader.

Next to Bulk, of course.

She and Jamie had a lot in common and spent hours discussing gardening, flowers, art, books, and music. It had been her new friend who’d introduced her to mindfulness and Kim found that many of these practices had done wonders in helping quell a substantial part of her anxiety and self-consciousness.

What if that saying was true? ‘Never meet your heroes…’ What if the idea of ‘Jamie’ wasn’t something that the real person could live up to?

‘And how will she react at me just showing up, at how easily I found her?’

They’d never really discussed meeting in the outside world. But neither had any idea how close they were to each other. Not until Kimberly glimpsed the name of Jamie’s nursery reflected in window of one of her flower photos.

‘Ka-Bloom’, she was just able to make out. And a quick internet search found the business’s address, just a few short hours away at the lakeside town where Tommy’s uncle used to reside…

[mommyofkittens]

A Court of Fallen Heroes - Chapter 4: The Countess

          When the first sign that the sun peeked through the mountain ridges appeared, I had already been awake for almost half and hour, fully aware that I had visited someone else's dream.

          It wasn't my purpose, on the first place. I lacked the skills and the determination necessary for such an... abnormality. Not to mention that I had no idea something like this was possible.

          Sleep found me immediately after I put my head on the cold pillow and, for a long time, I dreamed nothing but rhythmic undulation of darkness. Behind my eyelids, there was nothing but a black void with colored fireworks, from time to time. I think my sleep ' adventure ' took place much earlier in the morning.

          I knew a little about the REM cycle and how most dreams happen in the last part of it. I could swear it wasn't just a figment of my imagination: the fragrances, my steps, the house, the burn. It had to be real.

          Nothing surprised me at this point. You could tell me you were a little elf in disguise and I would believe you, no second thoughts.

          However, I was not entirely sure of the things I had seen. Sequences after sequences were chained together, but in an order that seemed to be constantly changing. I was aware only about the suffocating atmosphere and the feeling that time was passing so slowly, that even my actions were letargic.

          In my head, there is a clear image of a large room, with tall ceilings and mint green painted walls. Were they actually green? It was nothing like the ones I saw in my old world. I could sense various perfumes, mixing and becoming one: fresh roses, jasmine and something more... strong, metallic, something that reminded me of iron. I remember how simple the furniture was arranged: fluffy armchairs, the recently extinguished fireplace, the polished floor that didn't make any squeaking sounds, even the few remaining cups left on the table, as if the residents had just gotten up and left.

          Through my eyes, everything was dressed in black and blue, like I had a thin veil over my face, preventing me from seeing the truth. I studied a few paintings that were hanging above the stairs. In one of them, a young lady was wearing a delicate crown made of stars over her complicated braided hair.

          Could that be?.... Maybe, I can't recall exactly her description but... She was so different from how I imagined her.

          Was I actually in their home? Would they know someone was in here?

          My attention is captured by a sudden glow near the fireplace: a letter-opening knife, wrapped in black leather. I grab it, without thinking much further, and I jolt back, caught off guard by the burning sensation that stained my right hand.

          The dream shifts again, before I am able to make any sounds of protest, and I end up in another part of the house: a long, black hall, filled on both sides with unwelcoming, closed doors. I desperately examine my palms, still feeling the dreadful sensation of my skin being ignited by the blazing blade, but nothing was there anymore.

          Raising my head, I search the harsh atmosphere of this place. Even the glamorous black wood of the furniture seemed unfriendly. A sweet aroma hits my nose and I almost grunt, indulging myself in that masculine scent. It was like stepping outside, in the pouring rain, and taking the first breath of the freshly watered environment.

          I had no clue if it was the barely breathable air that was bringing to the surface all these fragrances or if it was only in my mind. My own skin starts to tingle when I touch the cold handle of the door placed right in front of me. Closing my eyes, I exhale, ready for the things waiting for me on the other side.

          To my disapointment, I wake up before I am able to discover what was hiding behind the door. The only detail I left with was the aching memory of a firm and sweaty body, trapped under my fingertips.

          Contrary to all these senses that brought me to a stage of ecstasy, there was the salty taste of seaweed, covering my tongue and dragging me outside my head.

          The little room was the same as I left it when I drifted off to sleep. Me falling through several circles and ending in a weird dimension was no nightmare. So was the fact that I was an orphan.

          As pleasing as it was pungent, the smell of hay and grass was still a dull reminder of the place I was captive. The doused fire no longer prevented the coolness from creeping through the cracked door. Giving him free will, his teeth sank into my thigh, causing it to hurt even more.

          Standing up, I look at Nivy, still deeply asleep, turned with her back towards me. Her pale skin shone almost transparently in the dim light of sunrise, contrasting with her brunette curls. Strands of her hair came loose from the braids she made before falling asleep and were stuck to her neck.

          She resembled Snow White so much, radiating innocence and kindness even when she was unconscious.

          A strangely familiar pain makes my heart drop in my stomach. I contract my right hand a few times, letting the shock to diminish and the truth to sink in.

          The universe was crossing a line here.

          Pulling my arm from under the cover, I evaluate the satisfying weight of the object: a marvelous knife, still icy against my fingers.

          The silver handle was wrapped in smooth, dark leather, and in the middle laid a petite blue stone. A sapphire? The freshly sharpened blade glimed blindingly even in the obscure rays of sunrise. It was of an harmless simplicity, but it held in its vibration a violent beauty, as if the former owner had imprinted his own personality in it.

          To make my suspicions come true, I search the palm of my right hand. The tip of the knife stained my skin with a furious red, as if it was accusing me of stealing it on purpose. Abscess bubbles stained from place to place my wound, giving me a hard time closing my fist without eventually bursting them.

          Was it going to stress me out the whole day? Surely. Was there anything else that could surprise me? Most probably.

          This was the kind of world where everything was possible if you had enough ambition and if you were able to manifestate. It was a world of magic and supernatural. It would be a great thing to stay alive until I find a way back home.

          If I can manage to do that too.

          Now, a phone would have been amazing, even a laptop or a computer. I would be able to do a quick research about Thaibar and their ways of living.

          These guys didn't even had a car that I could borrow.

          On the outside window's sill, the shadow of a thin cat makes my heart race inside my chest. I exhale, full of hope and muster up the courage to remove my feet from under the warm sheets. I firmly stick them to the wooden floor, trying my best to not be defeated by the cold morning chill. I hide the knife between the clothes Niven gave me yesterday, constantly checking on her.

          " Icarus? " I whisper, somewhat affected by my own delusional conviction and gently pull the muslin curtains.

          On the other side of the fogged glass, a gray shadow studies me, its chest and upped lip stained with a white patch. He doesn't recognize me and sniffs the window in disbelief, trying to expose my intentions.

          Disappointment is a much easier word to say than to feel, because more often it affects your lungs, drowning them in breaths that are insufficient in oxygen, making you unable to fully live in the present.

          Icarus was not on the other side of the barrier, obviously. He was lost somewhere down the line of time, in another world, waiting for me to come back home. This was my greatest fear and it came true: losing the animal that had truly loved me from the beginning.

          For a second, I press my forehead on the cold glass, remembering the black fur and the way it felt when I ran my cheeks over it. Even his distinctive smell was present in my memory, the only thing that made me feel like I was home.

          Carefully, I open the window, finding myself nose to nose with an unwelcoming stare. My skin tightens under the action of the bleak morning wind and my teeth chatter on command. The cat sniffs me again, surprised by the unfamiliar gesture.

          " I am... Cyan... " I hesitate, still unable to recall my name, and dare to caress his pink ears with a finger. " Do you have a name? Maybe I can call you Misty, as the weather we met in. What do you say? "

          She doesn't reject me, the only sign that she agrees with my presence are the slight ups and down of her nostrils.

          " I have.. " I stop, aware of the mistake I was about to make and reconsider my words, " Had... I had a cat as well, Icarus... "

          The cat considers me with her wide orange eyes, blinking slowly. She tilts her head to the side and starts purring, looking at me with the same curious expression.

          Out of the corner of my eye I catch Niven's mother carrying two buckets to the chicken yard, then she disappears completely, drowned by the fog.

          I offer another warm smile to the cat and close the window, quietly starting to get dressed so I could go out. I put on my clothes the way I had seen Niven do it, taking the piece of wool on top, for an extra amount of warmth to my back. When it comes to my hair, I'm barely able to tie the red ribbon as easily as Nivy.

          Undecided, I ponder the elegant knife left on the chair. I couldn't leave it here and risk raising more suspicions. I wouldn't know where to hide it, to begin with. It was enough that Shum had the impression that I was going to murder them all in their sleep. He didn't need any evidence too.

          Without another word, I raise the hem of my skirt, wrap a handkerchief around the blade and tuck it into my tights.

          If I was lucky enough, it would go unnoticed.

          I take one last look at the girl's still and even breathing body and gently close the door. Crossing the dimly lit hall, I take a quick glance towards Shum's room. He was the one who was going to kill me if he found out what I had in my pants.

          Once outside, I take a deep breath of the humid atmosphere, feeling the faint scent of amber tickling my nostrils. Niven's mother raises her forehead from the buckets of water and signals me to come to her. With another red kerchief clutched between my fingers, I awkwardly step forward, covering as much as possible the faint limp.

          I loved the mountain air even when I was at home, but here it was different. It seemed fresher, richer. Even the thick fog covering the mountain peaks in the distance was perfect, as if I was watching a bitter painting about the end of winter.

          The majority of animals had woken up and Cynthia had already started her morning routine. The woman was wearing the same clothes as yesterday, with her skirt tucked into the waistband of her pants and a brown woolen vest to cover her torso.

          A hoarse ' meow ' prickles my ears and I notice the small skinny creature following me closely. I get on my knees and try to grab her, so I can warm her inside my clothes, but she avoids me, contenting herself to just follow me from a distance.

          " Good morning, Cyan! " Cynthia greets me with a big smile and a pair of rosy cheeks due to the morning chill, "I hope you slept well. Do you need my help with the kerchief? "

          " Good morning to you too, ma'am! I..." I'm at a loss for words, forgetting about the soft scarf in my fist. I nod my head, not really knowing what was I doing with it or why I hadn't arranged it myself.

          " Come, give it to me. Was it warm enough last night? Did Nivy push you out of the bed? I noticed that there was no smoke coming out of the chimney for quite some time and I thought that it must have gotten terribly cold inside. "

          " Honestly, I didn't even realize when the fire ran out. And no, Niven slept on her side of the bed all night. " I admit, enjoying the soft touch of her fingers on my scalp, " It was warm under the sheets, the problem appeared when I got up. "

          I giggle carefree and turn to face her when she finishes arranging my kerchief. Her icy fingers run down my face, then to my shoulders, caressing me. She adjusts my woolen scarf around my waist and takes my hands in hers.

          I barely contain a grimace of pain when Cynthia squeezes my right palm, digging her short nails in my burned skin. A tortured sound comes out of my mouth and I try to mask it, by clearing my throat.

          " Done. This will help you with the cold. " She smiles again, rubbing our palms together to warm them up. " How did you wake up so early? With Nivy, I have to fight wars to get her up at seven, at least. "

          Biting my tongue, I happily endure the stinging sensation, if it meant seeing Cynthia joyful. I loved making small talk with her. Her voice resembled my mother's, and I ached to hear it again, even if it was another woman in front of me.

          " I'm a morning person, in general. I used to help my mother with chores around the yard. " I admit, thinking about how every morning, Icarus woke me up at 5 am by laying on my chest and purring quietly. He used to lick my face and wait for me to get up so I could change his water and give him food.

          Not even the mother part wasn't a lie. When I was at home, every Saturday, we cleaned together and after we finished, we went into the kitchen to cook. It was one of the things that united us and helped us forget about certain problems. My father was one of them, and we both used to suffered because of it.

          " Your mother is lucky to have you. " Cynthia lifts one of the buckets and empties it into one of the pig's water bowls.

          " Let me help you. " Rushing to another bucket, I pick it up and do the same thing as her.

          " Oh, ha, there's no need. " She chuckles, looking at me in a motherly way, " I do this every morning, I can handle it, it calms me. It's my only moment of peace. "

          " I believe you. My mother used to say the same thing. "

          " Alright, then come help me with the grains, then we have to feed some hay to the horses. I will teach you. "

          I agree, feeling a ghostly joy settle in my chest. God, at least I was a little useful.

          " When you have time, maybe you'll show me how you make the bread. It was one of the best things eaten. "

          Cynthia turn towards me, pure shock written on her face, then bursts out laughing, " Gods! Of course! I'd love to teach you! "

          For the next two hours, I learned to be Cynthia's shadow. I carried buckets, raked leaves, I fed horses and I found the courage to touch them.

          I've never had the privilege of being so close to such a majestic and imposing creature. They smelled like hay and spring water and their hair was shiny and healthy. I knew from articles online that they were one of the most intelligent animals.

          There were four horses here: two stallions, a white mare and another one, a smaller one, the one I assumed Shum saved from being killed.

          The mare had matted black fur and was so weak that she could not stand up. Her left eye was constantly watering and seemed slightly infected. Shum had taken care of her as best as he could: her stable was freshly cleaned and she had more food than the others. But it was in vain if she didn't eat at all.

          " Hey... " I greet her in a whisper tone and reach out my hand, pressing it to her dry muzzle. " You're not feeling very well, are you? "

          Her breaths were shallow and heavy and she could barely keep her head straight. However, the horse didn't seem to have a problem with me touching her, so I pluck up the courage to brush her and try to remove some of the dead hair.

          Shum was sure to be angry at what I was about to do. I grit my teeth and ask Cynthia for some instructions.

          According to her, I find the chamomile on top of a shelf in the kitchen, alongside some apples and carrots. I put some of the leaves in an already boiling water and leave it for a couple of minutes. Then, I go up to the attic and get some torn and unused clothes and a small block of salt, that I break into tinier pieces.

          After I gathered everything I needed, I got down to business.

          I made a bed for the mare, with hay at the bottom, to make it softer, and all the old clothes on top, to keep her warm. She didn't seem eager to sit on it, but I wasn't discouraged and gave her space. After all, she was still too weak to move.

          While the tea was still warm, I wiped the mess from her eyes, disinfecting the area. She didn't have any strength in her to resist me and she didn't even try to. She left her heavy head in my lap, allowing me to take care of her as best as I knew. With what was left from my tea, I brushed her hair again, giving it a glossy shade of black.

          Using one of the knives I had stolen from the kitchen, I cut the apples and carrots in tiny pieces, so she wouldn't have to make too much effort to chew on them.

          The mare sniffed the food and refused them vehemently. I set them aside and reach for the salt. A thrill of happiness revived my souls and tears gathered at the corners of my eyes when she ate all of it, getting the necessary minerals for her muscles.

          She'll be strong when she recovers.

          " Be brave and trust yourself, we will get you to feel better. "

          After I said my goodbye to the mare I went outside again.

          Misty followed me around all day, so from time to time, I stole a piece of raw meat or bread and sneaked it to her.

          Around eight in the morning, Niven made her presence felt in the yard, walking out of the house with Shum. He was wearing a minimal outfit: a white shirt, a vest on top, a pair of loose trousers and worn boots.

          " Oho! Good morning, ray of sunshine! " Nivy chirps, hugging me as if she's known me all her life, " Mother! Where's papa? "

          " To the parish. He'll come back to get you to the medic and then see if he can find Cyan some work to do. "

          Shum walks past me scowling and grumbling under his breath, avoiding my gaze.

          " Who fed the dogs?! " He shouted, staring frantically at the empty bowls in front of the cages.

          " I did. " I admit, feeling somewhat guilty for something I still don't know if I should be or not.

          Shum turns his obsidian locks towards me, his face contorted by hatred. With his fists clenched, he rushes towards me like an uncontrollable whirlwind.

          " Witch! Disguised witch! You want to poison my dogs! " He screamed, throwing his arms in the air, " Their diet is special! They don't need to eat fats, we don't want lazy dogs around the farm! They must hunt and protect us! "

          I take a few steps back, raising my hand protectively. My mouth drops open and I frown, still stunned by the reason he was angry with me.

          " Shum, what has gotten into you? " Niven steps between us, blocking him with her own body. " Even I feed the damned dogs sometimes. They are not always meant to hunt! "

          " You think you're smarter than me?! " Drips of drool fly into the air as the two brothers push each other wildly. " Step aside, Nivena. You're as blind as our mother and I have a feeling you'll end up just as crazy as her. "

          " Right now, you are the crazy one, brother. Do you even hear yourself? " The girl fiercely knocks him against the wooden fence that separated the horse stalls from the rest of the yard. " You are wasting your brain cells among all the scumbags you consider friends and you forget why we came here in the first place. Do you really think it would have been better for us to go back to where we came from? "

          " Yes! Yes! We would have been home! " He yelled back coming closer to her face and grabs Niven's vest in his fist.

          " Shum, I'm terribly sorry. I had no idea... " I start, keeping my hands in the air, feeling all the joy their mother gave me evaporating from my system.

          " Don't say a word to him, Cyan. One who doesn't believe in what he sees doesn't deserve your apology. " Niven slaps his hand and moves away from him. Shum doesn't stop and grabs her forearm violently, " Let me go, you bastard! Don't forget that at our old home we were only servants, not people. "

          " Are you all blind? She's trying to get under our skin. She's a fucking witch, an energy sucker! She's got you all in a daze! "

          " I only tried to help Cynthia, to make her work easier, to make myself useful... "

          " You are a pitiful orphan! " He spat in my face, pointing with a finger in my direction, " A thief, a face carved in blood, a pagan! "

          " A face carved in blood? " Niven asks, astonished by her brother's words and moves closer to me, holding my hand. " What the fuck are you saying? " Her unexpected rage throws me off-guard, witnessing another side of her.

          The girl's once soft features shift into sharp ones: her deer eyes take on an agile glow, much like a hunter's, her eyebrows arch high on her forehead and her body suddenly tenses up, seeming to explode through her own clothes.

          A sense of danger creeps inside my head and I feel unsure of how to react.

          " That is enough, son! " Their father's raucous voice makes us all startle, taken by surprise by his sudden apparition. " Go to you sheep and don't come back till sunset... ".

          The priest grabs Shum by the elbow and throws him a few steps away from his sister. It was an odd situation to witness. An old man, with an appearance shaped by life's hard challenges, fully clothed in his parish attire and barely holding into his tears. The green in his eyes diminishes, as if his own strength abandoned him by cursing his son.

          The boy seemed so much younger now that he was being stripped of his selfishness by his own father. The madness that took over him suddenly leaving his expression hollow. The air around him changes, heartbreak being written all over him now.

          Kallus takes off his black hat, clenching it tightly in his fists as he watches Shum drift off into the distance. A golden ring shines on his pinky finger, revealing the circular spirals of a snake.

          How odd to see such a cunning creature on a man who preaches god's doings.

          I raise my eyebrows and bite my inner cheeks, feeling like an intruder even more. I had to get out. I had to find a way home. But how the fuck will I do that without raising any suspicions? I need to get my hands on a map at least. Would that be of any use, actually? I read these books a long, long time ago. I only remember some of the major plots and... that's it.

          Entranced, I squeeze Nivy's arm tighter. My presence here was breaking apart a family and I couldn't be the one responsible for it.

          I promise myself that I will stay here only a couple more days, then I will leave, with or without the map. Maybe if I died I will be transferred back to my old world, even though I doubt it will be that easy.

          Cynthia's rosy cheeks wither away, revealing a handful of translucent veins under the skin of her eyelids. Her fragile neck looked like it was going to snap at the first gust of wind. Puzzled, I realize she's been here all along, listening to her own son's insults.

          With her lips trembling, she swallows hard, hiding her delicate hands behind her brown skirt. A ghost. Cynthia was a ghost. A relic of something that used to love life not long ago, who trampled among the ethereal curtains of time, losing herself among worlds and without purpose.

          My body feels heavy as I contemplate her existence. She turns on her heels, gloomily entering the farm, like someone had just crushed her last remaining hope. She doesn't turn to watch us anymore, keeping her head bowed and her shoulders slumped. Her soul was a great abyss of sadness and I was afraid she could drown in any minute.

          " Cynthia, my love... " Kallus mutters her name, a bitter pain etched in his posture.

          I grit my teeth and close my eyes, trying as hard as possible to not cry as well. I felt tied to a barbell and thrown somewhere in a deep sea. Unable to swim, I sink and suffocate and suffer and enjoy the feeling of letting go.

          I feel my skirt pulled down by a corner, and notice the little gray cat sitting still next to my leg. She stares deeply into my eyes, as if distracting me from the pit that was slowly swallowing my positivity. I count the vapors that form in the air due to my breathing and raise a silent prayer along with them: may everything end quickly and well for everyone.

          I give Misty my most sincere smile and thank her for the piece of serenity she tried to bring me.

          The priest takes a deep breath and gently touches Niven on her back, " Come on, girls, we have a hard day ahead of us. "

          He awkwardly tries to lift our morals, smiling slightly in the corners of his mouth, a smile that doesn't meet his cheerless eyes. Niven quicly wipes a tear from her cheek, reviving the same gentle and naive face. Even the pets had remained silent in the courtyard during the fight between them.

          The air around us changes, being filled with lies and bitterness. The impression that something wrong was going to happen never letting my thoughts rest. This time, I didn't know what to predict and how to prepare. Everything was filled with chaos here and the situations seemed to get out of control quickly.

          A clear proof was the very knife that I felt hanging heavily from my hip.

          God forgive me, but in this position, I didn't look like a saint either if they ever find what I was hiding.

          We don't make any conversation as we wait for Kallus to collect some things from the house before heading to Thaibar. Niven hugs her father before we leave, a silent promise that she will always be by his side.

          I smile and wrap my arms around myself, trying to offer me the same kind of relief.

          The girl detaches herself from her father's body and wraps one arm around me, rubbing my back in a warm gesture, " Don't worry, my brother... He's always been like this, with aspirations greater than what he can carry. " She whispers in my ear as we move forward, leaving Kallus lost in his thoughts, a few steps behind us.

          " I have a friend, in Thaibar. She works at the flower stand opposite the potion store where you're going to be. " Nivy informs me, somehow trying to erase from our memory the last twenty minutes, " Her names is Aoife. We met when we were a little younger, at one of the village's spring rituals. "

          I remember this. The Spring Court had something... similar, if not the same ritual. I just couldn't remember what it was called and what his purpose was.

          " Ao-.., what a complicated name. A-o-i-... "

          " No, no. It's pronounced Ee, that is, repeat after me. Ee-fa, Eee-faa. Did you catch it? "

          " Eee-faa. " I chatter my lips a few times, guided by Niven until she agrees that I won't make a fool out of myself in front of a stranger.

          " She's one of the main claims of the Resurgence. "

          " Resurgence? What's it about? "

          " It's exactly what the name means: a spring ritual, a celebration of the world being revived after the cold winter, The Resurgence... " Niven dramatically gestures the word, using her long limbs to draw a circle in the air. " Young girls are put in the river that springs from the mountain ridge to wash away their sins accumulated over the year. They get ' cleansed ' for marriage. In their hands they hold a bouquet of corals and the one that attracts the golden fish, the symbol of the ritual... " She says, adding the word ' cleansed ' between two mimed quotation marks, " She's chosen the most beautiful woman in the village. Aoife has been the winner for several years now, but she doesn't seem thrilled by the thought of getting married. "

          I frown, swallowing any retort related to the misogyny of the stereotype of virginity and the nonsense of ' washing away your sins '. Apparently, nothing was different from my own world, so far.

          " A very big bullshit, if you ask me. " Niven huffed, arranging some curls that had come loose from her braids. " Each woman in the village has her own assets, and they may or may not be beauty. Everyone is special and everyone is good at something. Beauty is relative and ephemeral and it is always in the eyes of the watcher. "

          I agree with her, proud by the way she was thinking. I didn't know if it was just her naivety speaking or her experience with life, but I was thrilled by the fact that not every girl here wished to be a servant for men.

          We were far enough from the farm and now, the first forms of Thaibar could be seen: a few houses of varying sizes, all in the same dreary shades of gray and brown, with little wisps of smoke coming of the chimneys. Some small figures walked outside the wooden walls of the village, getting in and out of the unguarded doors.

          I was expecting to see soldiers with swords and armors, like I used to see in those ancient movies with princes and princesses. But, apparently, it was not the case here. Maybe the village was too unimportant to be protected.

          Thaibar was actually small, according to the dimensions that we could comprehend from the high point we were on, and was surrounded by two hills, large enough to hide it from the strangers.

          " So... " I begin, noticing the smoky clouds that were blocking the sun's rays from shining above the settlement.

          It seemed as if whatever divinity they were worshipping here, punished them, depriving them of the astral body, cursed to never feel the warmth and beauty of the green and fruitful meadows.

          Maybe that's why they were all so pale.

          " So, what, Cyan? What where you going to say? " Nivy reminds me, searching my face with her sweet eyes. She raises her hand and covers my ears with the kerchief, " So you don't get a cold... ", she adds, running her finger through my eyebrows, arranging them.

          " So, um, you also have rituals here... " I start again, passing the low gates, with the same height as me.

          I could already notice the shops lining up ahead of us. With my ears, I catch the noisy bustle of the town.

          " Oh, of course! Who doesn't? Tell me one of yours. "

          I stare at her with wide eyes, feeling like I was caught again in my own lie. Pecking my lips, I smooth my dark blue skirt and pick some invisible dust from my shoulders.

          Someone yells from afar that he's selling mudstones, benefic for bone disease, which I quickly interpret as some kind of rheumatism. We used to suffer from that too, in my world. Feathers begin to fly around us when a handful of children chase a brown chicken before us.

          " The Dead's Saturday. " I remember, smiling pleasantly when Kallus greets some acquaintances from the village.

          The crown of people seemed to swallow me and Nivy, throwing unpleasant faces into our direction. I watch them back, trying to understand their behaviour towards us. Was it something I did? Or the problem was Kallus and his daughter?

          Poverty is a soft way of describing these people. They walked barefoot, through puddles of rainwater and horse shit, through piles of mud and garbage left behind by the vegetable stalls. They were miserable.

          When I caught them talking or smiling, more than one tooth was missing from their mouths and the ones that remained, were decayed and purulent, infections spreading to their gums. Some of these people had swollen face, distorting their features.

          It wasn't getting any better when it came to their clothes, either. A clear sign of their way of living was the lack of bodily hygiene. They spread a harsh smell of sweat and filth that made you dizzy. The mud was the least of their problems. Patches of clothing were moth-eaten, skirts were torn and holed and so were the men's trousers.

          There wasn't a wider palette of colors in this world, just brown, black and a washed out red.

          " The Dead's Saturday... " Niven humms thoughtfully, grasping in her long fingers what appeared to be a soft grapefruit.

          Please don't eat that... I pray inside my head. My stomach flutters uncontrollably and a lump forms in my throat, threatening to come out in any minute.

          " Ten habgis, miss Aldo. "

          Nivy raises her soft eyes to the thin and scantily dressed salesman. He was not dressed accordingly for the cold weather, either. She hands him the requested money and we move on, gifting the fruit to an old woman who sat in the mud, begging for coins. She thanks Niven, returning a toothless smile.

          " What do you do on this holiday? Besides celebrating the dead, obviously. "

          The village was disturbingly similar to those depicted in movies like Outlander and The Witcher. I swallow hard, overwhelmed by all the surrounding information and let myself be guided by Niven's bony elbow.

          Some of the taller, and probably more important, buildings, were made out of stone, while the rest of the houses were built from creaking wood. On both sides of the narrow street were shops with colored dresses displayed in their windows. A symbol was printed on some of the constructions: a spiral leading to two entwined swords.

          Kallus signals us to follow him, while he manages to slip amond the elderly women who were chatting and exchanging duck eggs. I raise my woolen scarf to my nose, trying to dissipate as much as possible the smell of dry sweat.

          " We make a cake out of barley in their honor. We enchant it with incense and after that, we go to the cemetery where we surround the grave three times and give the food to them, in the afterlife. "

          Niven turns to me in awe, as if she was capable of reading my thoughts and drops her innocent feline mask for a few seconds. " It sound like a pagan ritual. ", she whispers, motioning with a finger to be silent. " These things are forbidden in these lands. Only the old deities are glorified here in a futile attempt to awaken them. "

          I bite my lips, hypnotized by her black eyes with golden iridescence, and I nod my head, obedient.

          Insecurity settles in my soul and red flags pop up in my head. I must be more careful with these people. What the hell am I thinking? Ancient deities, paganism, rituals with virgins, obscure stories about redheads, nothing I should get involved in. The problem was that the possibility of a connection between my departure from home and myths like this was something that was implying me too.

          " The immortals! The immortals have come to town! I curse you! " A grumpy old man pounces on me and Niven. He manages to clamp his fist around my wrist, smearing me with soot. A horrifying tremor grips my body as a bloody scene unfolds before my eyes: A burning Thaibar.

          " In the name of the Mother... " Niven whispers as I rip my hand from his hand.

                  " You brought famine upon Thaibar! " He screams again, bubbles of foam appearing at the corners of his mouth. His white locks were soiled and covered with a hat eaten by moths.

          Several men, dressed in black armor, surround him and force him on the ground, kicking him in the ribs with their iron shoes. Their faces were covered by a black helmet, not even their eyes could be seen. The same symbol crowned their shoulders and chests, marking them as part of the royal house.

          " Shut up, you disgusting waste of breath! Find a way to pay your debt to the palace. ", bursts out one of the three men, slamming the poor men's head on the mud.

          " Niven, they're going to murder him! " I push against her, trying to look over her tall shoulder at the old man's body, now lying inert on a putrid puddle.

          " He's mad, Cyan... " She snarls at me, managing to get me out of the circle of people gathered to see the slaughter.

          " It's a fucking human being! " I shout against the loud crowd, watching her reach for her father.

          " You'll always see these kind of... atrocities here. Get use to it! " Niven lectures me.

          Kallus stops in front of a cramped house, with a barely legible sign that said ' Potions '. " He's not sane, Cyan. He's always causing trouble for the parish and to village people. "

          I stare at them, bewildered by their reaction and for a second, I realize how alienated I am from this world. A priest without resentment towards and old man, no matter how crazy he was and his innocent daughter, ignoring him completely, telling me these was common practice.

          I was going to faint.

          Biting the inside of my cheek, I close and open my fists a few times, trying to focus on the jerky throb in my leg, only to suppress the emotion that had gripped me. The knife's blade had moved imperceptibly during the time I had been shaken by the old man, and now, it was stabbing my thigh.

          I rearrange it as imperceptibly as I can, then straighten my back.

          When we enter the small shop, the heavy smell of freshly burnt bay leaves makes my head spin and I stumble on my own feet. Kallus quickly supports me with both arms and grabs a wooden chair.

          " Oh my... Cyan, you look so pale... " Nivy pressed her palms against my forehead, checking my temperature.

          Of course I was. I just saw a man beaten to death while everyone was starring and last night, I was in someone else's house without even trying to do that. I am more than dizzy and pale. I am utterly lost and the risk of me losing my fucking mind has reached alarming levels.

          The easiest way out was killing myself, but I was too afraid some smartass was going to bring me back to life, not even leaving me to enjoy my time in the afterlife.

          The vomit rose high in my throat. The ringing in my ears was terribly annoying and in front of my eyes were only smoke of bay leaves.

          " Nimue! Nimue, quick! "

          Several silhouettes come to life in front of me and I inhale the vapors, feeling them burn my neck on the inside. Frightened by the winged figure that flied towards my face, I hit them with my hands, making them burst into hot steam.

          A chocking sensation overwhelms me and I stick my tongue out in a desperate desire to throw up what I've swallowed. It felt like my pharynx had swollen and my lungs had collapsed, inert, leaving me completely breathless.

          Was I having an anaphylactic shock?!

          " She's chocking on the smoke. " The priest announces, alarmed, blowing the clouds away from my face. " Nimue! "

          " Let her throw up if she feels the need to. " Niven says in panic, rubbing my palms into hers, then massaging my chest.

          I stumble forward and catch Nivy's skirt with my nails. My head feels like it's on fire and my scalp itches terribly.

          An angular face emerges from the bay smoke I exhale and considers me for a few moments. Or rather he looks through me. The man's elegant features float in the air, waking something inside me, clawing at my rib cage to get out and answer the call.

          " May the sky give me strength, Kallus! You cast all the devils of the earth upon my head! " A hoarse female voice scratches my eardrums, descending like an angry purple cloud above me, " This girls has the evil spirit inside her! "

          The wave of air dissipates the saturnine face, caused by the austere woman who now sat in front of me, analyzing my mouth, nose and eyes.

          I mumble, watching with wide eyes how the smoke splits one last time, changing and unfolding a whole scenario of two people that seemed to be making love.

          " The Mother of all we feel... "

          " Please... " I gasp, hearing the same song that woke me up inside the oasis, pass my ears briefly.

          My skin tingles and the burn in my palm sends violent electric waves through my arm. A bony hand grabs my face, digging it's uncut nails in my already wounded cheek. " Open your mouth! "

          When a sweet drop touches the roof of my oral cavity and trickles down my throat, the song and the smoke stop their torment. My vision clears right away and I finally catch the form of a lady about thirty-five years old, who beholds me warily. " What's this thing doing here? ", she asks, turning my head to inspect the pair of claws I had acquired before I fell through the worlds.

          I swallow all my ideas, feeling myself seized by her dark violet eyes that seemed to eat you up from the inside out. She licks her thin lips, contoured with a burgundy pencil on the outside, and smiles broadly, " I feel sorry for you soul, little girl. "

          I blink often, watching her leave me and go behind her work table, covered by mountains of notebooks and bottles, knives and herbs. The berry scent turns my stomach upside down and I can't hold the disgusted expression that slips on my face.

          I hated berries.

          " She's the girl I told you about this morning. She says she's trained in the art of medicine. " Kallus begins, getting up from his kneeling position he'd taken when he sat me on the chair and places a protective hand on my shoulder.

          I still can't find the courage to look at the soul eating woman so I focus on the knife on my hip, it's weight giving me a sense of peace.

          " I don't need weak disciples, especially not like this one. She's the first branch to break at the slightest breeze. " Nimue responds strictly, dipping one of her small fingers, the one without a nail, in a clear liquor, then smells it. " Do you recall what happened with the last one and the one before him, and so on? No one lasts long enough here. "

          Kallus takes off his black hat and steps towards her silently, blocking her image with his own body, " I swear, Cyan is not like the others. Not even close. "

          Dizzy enough, every fast rotation of my head made my balance stagger, even while sitting on a chair. Passively, I scan the gloomy corners of the store.

          The peeling walls were full of pictures with pentagrams and lists of names of plants and animals. On a far wall, behind the slender woman, there were three pictures hanging, all of them related to the anatomy of a raven, a snake and another that explained how the light protrudes through the eyes.

          " Ugh, spare me the pleads. ' Chosen ' this, ' Chosen ' that, and yet, the only purpose for which they are ' chosen ' is to die, over and over again. When are you going to learn your lesson, old man? When will you end this mad circus? "

          The woman props herself on her hands on the table, coming closer to Kallus's face. The hems of her purple velvet dress swept the dirty floor, turning black. The edge of the sleeves were embroidered with a thin layer of golden thread, knotted like thorns up to the elbows. On her left wrist, Nimue wears an elegant golden bracelet, with numerous precious stones attached.

          " It's the last time, Nimue, we don't even have the energy anymore to keep it like this. " The priest acknowledges her, putting his hat back on top of his black tail.

          They both turn to me and Niven. The soul eater studies me for a good few moments, then back to Kallus, holding up her imperial posture.

          " This is the last time. I can't hide the things we do anymore, I don't want to put myself in danger anymore. I want what's left of my life to go down in peace. "

          " You know why she's here... The silent prayers, even you raise them sometimes. We don't have another purpose here, Nimue. We have been partners for so long, served each other. You, me... Cynthia... "

          " Haven't I done enough for you and my-... your wife? " Nimue swallows half of her word, causing a bitter taste inside her mouth. " Get up, girl! Let me check you. "

          Shit. The knife.

          My back straightens and I let myself be inspected by the weird woman. She held a strange charm in her sharp features. I wouldn't call her beautiful either, she had something special buzzing in her aura. It was the mean behavior that made me dislike her.

          She unties my scarf from my head with violent movements, pulling a few strands of hair from the back of my neck in the process. She looks inside of my mouth, eyes and ears, then moves to my hands and sternum. Kallus excuses himself and goes outside, seeing that Nimue was about to undress me.

          Begging anyone willing to listen to help me hide the knife, I start to take off my clothes. I still had no plausible explanation for him. It doesn't even look like a kitchen knife...

          Left only in my nightgown and a pair of socks, now surely dirty from the floor, she inspects the bruises from my ribs and legs, palpating the violet patches of skin from time to time. Her actions were much more gentle than I imagined them to be and her skin soft enough to barely be felt against my limbs.

          " You stink of amber... " Nimue mentions, her words full of venom, and she looks at me through her thin eyelashes. " The concussion might affect your memory. I can't tell if it's for a short or long period of time because of the inflammation. I can give you some medicine that you must take at night, before bed. Maybe it will help you dream your memories and discover something about your past. Also, where did you say you fell? The wounds on the thigh and the scalp are swollen and wet, most likely infected too. I'll give you some Echinacea ointment. "

          " I think somewhere on the meadow. " Shamelessly, I lie, and pull my nightgown back over my legs.

          We all know I didn't fall in the field. Besides, no one knows how exactly I got out of the oasis and didn't drown.

          Nimue's eyes sparkle with interest, dissecting my words in her head. Her face twitches as if she's digesting the information. She grins, knowingly, then leaves me get dressed up and signals to Kallus come inside when I am done.

          " For your happiness, the girl can stay. She'll work with me every morning from 8 to 5 o'clock in the evening and if it's necessary, she'll follow me to the palace and stay past her schedule. I don't want you to talk without being asked and I want you to get rid of that amber perfume. It gives me headaches. At this point, you are not my apprentice, but my servant, until I figure out if you can reach my standards. "

          Hoe.

          My perplexed looks turns into a repulsed one. I was used to this kind of humiliation from my former doctors in university. But here, reached another dimension of insensitivity.

          " Are you dumb or deaf? "

          " Neither. " I answer, putting my hands behind my back like an obedient little soldier, " Thank you, for your... " Kindness? Reception? Help? Humiliation? " For you help... "

          " On my life, you're so tiring. Kallus, she's quite fine, just a few bruises and a nasty scratch that'll leave a mark. I hope you don't mind, you're not much of a bless for the eyes. "

          Niven opens her mouth to object, but I frown at her, not giving her the chance to screw this up.

          " I give you my gratitude, Nimue. If there's nothing more to add, I'll take the girls and leave you to your duties. "

          " Aha, no, no. " The soul eater interrupts, raising her head to stop us from leaving. " Let the girl stay, I want to test her before I send her back to you. "

          The priest nods approvingly and squeezes his fist to his chest in my direction, showing me to have courage.

          Confused by the situation, I don't even perceive Nivy's light touch on my wrist until is too late.

          " What can you do? " Nimue asks while tying an apron around her wasp like waist, then starts rummaging around the room, replacing the old books from the table with new ones.

          Nothing, right now, I knew nothing. I'd rather be a doormat or wash the floors.

          " I, a... I know a little about everything. " My answer comes out much more skeptical than I intended, feeling my hands shake behind my back.

          My memory was way behind the things that were happening now. It was still stuck in the trauma I suffered when my parents found out I had a relationship with a girl. So, to try and force her to help me right now, was in vain. I felt exactly like I used to in my old university, when someone asked me a specific thing that I had learned about and I would have a delay.

          " This is not an answer, redhead. You see, you either pull yourself together and start taking advantage from this service or you realize, early enough I hope, that you're incapable and leave me alone. It is not possible to work with me and have no idea about things like: speaking elegantly and managing situation to come out as you like. Especially, if it's the palace. Come, firstly, clean the place: the tables, the floors, the shelves. After you finish, there are plenty of bottles and jars waiting to be washed and filed in order. "

          Before she could finish her sentence, I rush to take an apron and tie it around me so I can begin with my chores.

          " Arrange the potion books according to the level of effectiveness and also, depending on the difficulty of obtaining them. " She stops and makes a revolted face, " Oh, and take that scarf off your head. We're not in the damned yard here. Don't make me look bad. "

          I felt like I was back in my pharmacology class. Only if she knew I failed the exam on the first semester. But, I doubt she'll have any idea about what pharmacology was.

          " Of course, ma'am. " I accept, removing the red kerchief I tied back after i was undressed, and stuff it inside my shirt.

          " Miss. " Nimue corrects me, without turning to face me, and continues her quiet work. " When you're done, come back here and I'll teach you how to make your own potion and ointment. "

          " Excuse me... " I stop in my tracks, weighting the idea I was about to expose, " If you don't mind, how can I treat an eye infection? One of Kallus's mares has a problem and she's tearing up- "

          " Do you think I look like a caretaker at the farm? " She questions me, sarcastically, and puts a hand on her hip, " We're treating humans here, not animals. Now stop humiliating me like that. " She finishes the conversation and turns her back to me. " And besides, you should already know what's the treatment for infection. "

          Yeah, I should. Unconsciously, I squeeze a book between my fingers until I feel the covers break in my palm.

          Fine. Don't give me the information. I'll find it in your books, witch.

          And so, the most horrible hours of my life began to unfold. Initially, I cleaned all of Nimue's work tables that covered the walls, collecting her written recipes that were scattered around, and placing them in stacks. I even tried to move the furniture so I could sweep the floor, but it was in vain. They were built from massive wood and were incredibly heavy. This action only lead to a mocking smile from her.

          After washing her floor from mud and other interesting fluids, I go to my next task: shelves.

          " No, you fool. Don't touch the potions on that shelf. " She scolds me and takes the wet cloth from my hand, starting to clean herself that portion of cabinet.

          I leave her be and start sorting the potion bottles. I manage to place them alphabetically and in such a way so that the label is visible. My heart trembled the whole time. What if my finger slipped and I dropped them. Nimue would have had my head on a plate, probably.

          When I moved the bigger jars, although I was used with aborted fetuses and bits of human organs from my anatomy laboratories back in my old world, I was still unprepared to see animal parts floating in green juice. In other vials, she kept bats in formalin or eyes and teeth. The most shocking part was a small uterus, that was labeled as ' monkey '. She even kept kept nails, human nails in a dry jar.

          I need a break. This woman was a sadist. Is this what doctors did in this society? Collecting human and animal parts and making medicine out of them?

          Somehow, it didn't shock me that much. I read a book, actually, with a very suggestive name ' The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers '. I learned about how the Chinese population used placenta and mummies as ointments and pills. So, it wasn't something new, we just become more moral over time and chose not to exhume the dead for supposed healing recipes.

          Going down to the basement level of her house to collect the last jars, I discovered much more terrible things than a monkey's uterus. She had macerated pig hearts, next to which sat quietly a braided tail, made of a real woman's hair. Among the black strands you could see little reddish cockroaches that hat matted the hair and created a nest. Then, in another silver box, were frog legs, stripped of their skin.

          Placing my hand on my forehead, I feel my temperature begin to rise and the slice of bread I munched on this morning come in my throat alongside my bile.

          " Poor thing... You're going to let some frog ruin your dream of becoming an apprentice? " Nimue giggles behind me, grabbing a jar with yellow eyes in it, as if it was no big deal.

          " Are those real? "

          " Do you like them? " She asks happily, bringing the transparent vessel closer to my face, " I collected them myself from the community corpses. "

          Fuck me. Why am I still in this shit hole?

          " That's what I wonder too. " Nimue answers, wiping a speck of dust from a blue iris.

          " Excuse me?... " My eyes widen, thrown off guard by her repsone.

          Did I really said that out loud or?...

          She shrugs, smiling and sprints up the stairs to the store above.

          I purse my lips and clench my fists. The impression that she tries to get rid of me is not a supposition anymore, it was a certainty.

          " I haven't even started. " I reply, taking the register from the floor and starting to clean and organize the witch's materials.

          She doesn't say anything back, but I can hear her laughter above the floor.

          By the end of my shift my eyes were dropping in my mouth and some of my bones cracked at the slightest move. I couldn't even smell anything rather than formalin, mold and fetid elements. I wasn't expecting to be paid, I didn't do anything other than act as a maid here and there, without showing my limited knowledge related to the medical field: injections, a few incisions, sutures.

          This job didn't correspond at all to my training and, to my dislike, tested the limits of my understanding. But it wasn't only about the job, but about this universe in general.

          Even if my working hours were officially over, I still had plenty to do.

          Tomorrow is another day. I say in my head, slapping the wet cloth against the bucket.

          As I walk past the stacks of books I had to arrange in the library, I notice something that really sparked up my interest: ' Guide to treating infections in cattle and sheep. '

          Damned reptile. Of course she also had manuals about animals, considering the fact she collected parts of them. I borrow, borrow not steal, the book and hide it behind my woolen clothes, then I make my way to Nimue.

          " Rayna, come here. " She hoarsely calls for me, making room at her table so I can join her, " Let's prepare you medicine. "

          " Cyan, miss. " I correct her, rolling up my wet sleeves.

          " Whatever you say, Shyna. Look, you've got two paragraphs here: the echinacea ointment for wounds and lavender potion for sleep. "

          I sigh and begin to follow her instructions, watching her out of the corner of my eye as she leans her hip on the table and folds her arms against her chest. Nimue's hair was tied at the nape of her neck in a simple bun, making her features sharp.

          Even this witch was a fairy-tale beauty and I didn't like to say it out loud.

          I begin my job by crushing the plants in a ceramic bowl. Of course I was criticized for the fact that I pressed too much on the dry leaves and that my movements were lacking finesse. She pushes me aside for a few moments and shows me how to do it.

          I couldn't deny it, her actions were more fluid, hypnotic. She had the hands of a pianist: long and slender, feminine, with clean and short nails. Nimue knew what she had to do and how the end result should be like and, apparently, it worked.

          Even her face held a serious mine, a slight satisfaction written on it. Everything seemed like a sacred ritual that Nimue loved to perform.

          " Here, your turn now. " She invites me to the table and places her palms over mine, guiding me, " Gentle, smoothly, press firmly and take your time. Think of the leaf as a piece of ash, running from the fire. Imagine it crumble under your touch. "

          Nodding, I envision all the properties of the herb coming together in my bowl. A childlike joy blooms in my soul when the plant cuts itself into pieces easily, like it was satisfied of the way I was using it.

          " Making potions is not that simple. You must use all three elements that create a man: the body for strength, the mind for the necessary information about the ingredients and the soul, for a touch of magic. "

          While turning the mortar, Nimue adds a few teaspoons of fat and a few drops of some kind of essential oil.

          " This is shea butter. Very, very rare and very, but very expensive in these places. I would give you pork fat instead, it is much more nutritious, but not very useful when dealing with infections. It could actually worsen the condition. Is full of glucose, too sweet, and you know how germs love the taste of carbohydrates. " She explains as she wipes her hands with a towel and studies me with the same pair of cold lilac eyes. " The essential oil is castor oil. Considering that your wound is on you scalp, it will help you hair grow in that place and stay healthy. "

          Damn, she really was smart. I knew everything she said was true because I learned it in university too.

          " Also, never put lotions on fire, you destroy all their properties. Only teas and certain potions, the ones that contain green plants, not colored. " Nimue informs me, testing the texture of the medicine. " Colored plants contain spirits that enjoy the heat and sabotage your cure. Better to drown them in water for a couple of hours or freeze them if possible and only after that, let them dry. "

          With an almost invisible appreciative gesture, she pours the cream unto an iron box.

          " Good. Now, let's prepare the night potion. "

          My conclusion after this day was that, as much as I despised Nimue, she loved her work enough to teach it good.

          " Are you coming back tomorrow? " She questions me from the doorway, her rough voice being carried away by the wind.

          " Unfortunately. " I joke, turning my face to her.

          " What? " She laughs, showing me a pair of impeccable teeth. " Well, if you're so determined to show up, then I expect you to explain me all the information from the book you've stolen from me. "

          I freeze in the doorframe, with a hand on the hip the heavy manual was hidden.

          " Oh and, I know you didn't fall in the meadow, as you lied, and you should find a scabbard for that dagger you keep. " She smiles crookedly and approaches me, " What I don't know is how you got your hands on it. "

          " As long as I don't use it, there's nothing you have to worry about. Miss. " I reply, taking a few steps back.

          " Do you even have any idea of how to wield a dagger? You barely even managed to properly crush a handful of dead leaves. But twist a knife into someone's heart? Never in a million years, my sweet little star. "

          " We all have secrets, Nimue. Do you want me to make my own suppositions about how you got your hands on this pretty dress or that shining bracelet? "

          Her eyes become alert and her upper lip twitches.

          " I respect yours. " She resumes and twirls a finger through a wine colored piece of my hair. " For your mare it is enough to wash her eyes with chamomile and linden tea, feed her salt so she can rebuilt her muscles and some grains mixed with red apples. After she begins to eat well and can hold her weight on her own, give her hay sprinkled with basil. It'll keep curses away. The mare will be fine by the time you're gone. "

          " How do you know when I'll leave? Will I get home? " I step forward, hearing the floor groan under my shoes.

          " The future is not for us to see. " Nimue chants, slamming a fistful o metal keys in my palm and making a brief contact between our skin.

          She's stunned for a moment, as if she sees for the first time who lays in front of her.

          " You can use the lotion for the burn in your palm, as well. And be careful what path you take by night. You have green eyes and red hair, the traits which the old gods relished most in mortal females. "

          Nimue leaves me in front of the store, waving her ass from side to side, sweeping with her purple skirt the dirty streets.

          I don't get to say goodbye. I'm left on the sidewalk, with my mouth open and barely able to understand the last five minutes of our conversation. Redheads and old gods. The same thing Nivy mentioned the other day. If that was true as well, I might use the knife earlier than I imagined...

          This night was going to be a well-deserved break between the two of us.

          Moving slowly, I take my time to try and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The sky had taken on a rosy hue, a sign that it was already beginning to lose its power and the air smelled of crushed nuts and dust.

          Was I watching the same sky as my loved ones back home?

          I lower my head. I couldn't watch it anymore and not feel empty. This silence, this lack of people, of Niven, was draining me, squishing my heart. I stop, trying to banish all my dark thoughts and make room for some rational ideas.

          If by the end of this month, I was not going to find a way home, I knew what had to be done with my life: throw it away. I couldn't live between strangers, run from house to house. God knows what I have to endure if I even stay on the streets for too long.

          Someone grabs my waist, waking me up. Unprepared and with my nerves stretched to their full capacity, I swing, ready to fight whoever dared to touch me.

          " Whoa, whoa, calm down, Cy. It's me, don't break my nose if you don't know how to fix it. "

          Niven comes out from the shadows, with a huge smile on her pretty face.

          " You scared the soul out of me. " I breath, putting my palm on my chest to feel my heartbeat, " I'm sorry, my head feels so big after today. "

          " Does the Countess approves you? " The blond girl that was by Niven's side asks, running her hands through her beautifully braided hair.

          " Countess? If you mean Nimue, I have no idea. She's expecting me tomorrow. " I explain, analyzing the feminine and voluptuous features belonging to the stranger. " It's only temporary anyway, I can manage. "

          " You haven't changed you mind. You still want to leave me. " Nivy says with an accusing look on her face and takes us both by the hands, leading us slowly down another path with broken stones.

          We make way among the few people still left on the narrow streets, noticing that we are heading in a different direction than the one we came from.

          " You can't adopt me, Nivy. I would like to go home after I remember where I come from. " I look at the stalls with empty baskets and the few stone buildings that rose behind them. " This is not the way home. "

          " It's a surprise. If you want leave, at least let me show you how we secretly have fun. " The brunette chuckles, jumping from one feet to another.

          " I'm Aoife. " The beautiful stranger with the face of an angel introduces herself, showing off her big blue eyes. " Nivy told me that you have and unforgettable face and that's right. I've never seen features like yours before, I swear. "

          My cheeks start to burn and I can swear I'm blushing. I was not a beauty. I wasn't even a natural redhead. I was using a cherry box dye, so that my roots could go unnoticed when they grew too much. Not even my oval face or my prominent cheekbones were not helping much. I looked childish and way younger that twenty-three.

          Here, the standard seemed to be a heart-shaped head, thin lips and way, way more skinnier than I was. My tighs were full of flesh, due to my short height and I had some hip dips as well. My stomach was soft and hid a little belly below. It was the reason I hated wearing tight dresses. I didn't even have boobs in this shirt without the help of a push-up bra. I was pear-shaped and the only thing I really liked about my body was my quite alright behind.

          " Thank you. She told me you are the spring's favorite, as they say. "

          My attempts at making conversation were as poor as I was. A trace of regret saddens her eyes. She doesn't say anything, but puts on a joyless smile.

          " How was your first day? " Niven asks, like a mother who questions her child about the first day of school.

          " Do you want me to exclude the grotesque elements? " I sigh, aggressively massaging my forehead.

          " How dare you? Those are the best! "

          The black smoke from the chimneys were intoxicating the already precarious atmosphere, filling it with the smell of wood and coal. While listing the types of stuffed animals that the ' Countess' seemed to collect, the emotion of not belonging oppresses my soul again.

          The dull pain in my whole body somehow anchored me in this reality and made me much more aware of the situation I was in. I felt the need to drown my sorrow in a drink. More than ever, actually. This was something that happened to me lately, due to stress and unhappiness. It was a fact that scared me terribly: I could become and alcoholic. Just like my father.

          But he was now in another world and my weak heart, unable to hate him, made me think of him. He threw at me so many calumnious words that I can't even remember them all. Does he know that I am no longer among them and that my soul aches?

          Yes, even now, after he beat me and threw me out of the house, after he cursed me and told me he regretted the day he conceived me. Does he know that I can't breathe being so far away from them? It's not even a cliché anymore: we were worlds apart, but I still carried the scars in my chest, buried deep enough to last for a lifetime.

          I sigh deeply, hoping that I can release some of the weight that was making me move slower than usual.

          " Something wrong, Cyan? " Nivy asks me quietly, raising her delicate eyebrows, " You're upset, all of a sudden. "

          Aoife smiles like in those movies I used to watch, the ones with Marilyn Monroe in which she was so delicate, elegant and beautiful. They even looked alike: blonde, small face, a dimple in the chin, small and pouty lips and a pair of eyes as blue as spring water, sharp as those of foxes and overflowing with vitality.

          " Aoife, I'm sorry to interrupt, Nivy, but I can't help it: you have a beauty that I've only heard existed. I've never... um, I've never seen anything like you. "

          I swear I wasn't hitting on her. I wasn't into girls that looked like girls. It was hard to explain even to my parents. I felt attracted to the girls that looked like boys, and that is because I was into men. Even if I despised the majority of them.

          So complicated.

          A blush creeps on Aoife's neck, getting in harmony with her already rosy undertone. She brushes some loose strands of hair away from her face acknowledging my admiration towards her. " You have such a way with your words... But, you should know I am lectured, too. In maths and geography. "

          Niven laughs lightly, tenderly grabbing her shoulders and positioning herself behind her. " Yes, Cyan, she is among the few people who can do arithmetic and read in two ancient languages. "

          As I applaud, I lift the hem of my skirt to avoid an area full of brown water. We turn on some narrow streets, until we get far enough from the view of Thaibar. From this point, up on a side of the hill, we could see the black towers of the castle, rising high on the air and puncturing the grey clouds.

          " What's there? " Squinting my eyes through the darkness that was beginning to fall over Thaibar, I make my own presumption.

          " The kingdom of Hybern, the metropolis of the region. " Niven informs me, cursing them under her breath.

          " I work there. As a maid. " Aoife speaks, not looking in our direction and kicking rocks with her feet, " My shift starts in a few days. "

          " I can't understand your ambition to work between those... worms. "

          " I have a family to feed, Niv. My mother suffers from madness and goes on the road at night thinking she's a prostitute and my brother has school. The palace is the only place where I make enough money. "

          Her nose wrinkles, as she finally lifts her head towards the horizon. Narrowing her eyes, she looks like she is about to go and spit on everyone on the palace.

          It was the same expression as the one that appeared when I brought up the Resurgence. Visible disgust and wrath. I wonder what made her react like that, besides the people. Was she forced to do something? Maybe participating to that competitions was nothing more that an attempt to put herself out there. Gain a husband, steal his money...

          Empathy was deeply rotted in my character. It's always been like this and, sometimes, it was a curse upon my existence. Being able to read the room or the person in front of you, not like an expert would do it, but like a human being that's been through the same, was consuming.

          Aoife was as readable as an open books. Her shoulders were pulled back in an effort to prepare herself to return to those monsters and her eyebrows were dropped, the hope of escaping being lost long time ago.

          We cross a small field of plain, barren field, with scattered earth dunes that scratched my feet through the slim shoes. Rays of light emerge from the forest in front and a dull sound of music tickles my ears.

          " We might not have enough time to speak tonight, Cy. " Aoife catches my hand and leads me through the tall rows of trees, " But I wanted to say that you should prove the Countess what we already know about redheads - they are the fiery women that even the dark is afraid of. "

          She throws me a toothy smile and waves a kiss towards me and Niven before she throws herself into a chaotic pirouette around the campfire. The flames burn high, almost reaching the naked branches, and sparks jump between the dancing bodies, amplified by their energy. Even the crackle of fire seemed to intertwine with the music, setting the rhythm.

          Children and young people screamed and threw themselves into the crowd, others played at the drums and whistles. The more experienced ones sang, not with words, but with sounds and interesting notes. The girls squealed and danced barefoot, twirling flower crowns on their forearms, and the boys accompanied them, circling them with specific dance moves.

          It reminded me of a Georgian dance. The kind where the females were gracious and their moves were delicate and refined.

          Some others played cards on a trunk tree, betting their money on luck, not interested in dancing or admiring the silhouettes and others, kissed, passionately as the fire, hidden between the trees.

          A heady atmosphere of fairy tale and goodwill rejuvenates me, and I find myself laugh and spin my eyes around, trying to eat all of the picture so that I can feel full again.

          Nivy watches me, just as happy, and gestures me to take my shoes off. Gladly following her instructions, the sharp grass stings my heels. It was an atypically pleasant sensation. It eased the tension between my shoulder blades, absorbing all the stress collected from the day.

          Several tables were lined up one after the other, filled with platters of bread, ham and cheese and a few seasonal vegetables like green onions and tomatoes. Nearby, several barrels were arranged, some already emptied by the amateur drinkers of white and red wine.

          " Follow me, let me give you a taste of the best wines from the continent. The wine of Thaibar, made from grapes ripened in the forest, watered by the river that flows from the ridge of the mountains and lulled by the song of nightingales. "

          " They should put you in charge of sales after this commercial. " I joke, and confidently bring the red liquor to my lips.

          A smell of licorice and sour fruits makes my nose tinge. Honey like sweetness overpowers my tongue, and my mouth waters instantly.

          I was about to get really fucking drunk.

          " Foreigners say it's actually fairy wine, forbidden to humans. " Another girl smiles at us, bringing the carafe to her mouth and sipping thirsty.

          Her kerchief was tied around her neck and her skirt was pulled up and tucked into the trousers underneath, a style that all the workers here adopted.

          " I heard about it. They say it holds you hostage in their realm and makes you their servant. " I recall, savoring the mixture of flavors on my taste buds.

          Maybe there were drugs in this. I doubted they didn't have cannabis or marijuana. Maybe they didn't knew their properties but, this wine, the aroma, it warmed you from the inside, from the first sip and boosted your morale instantly.

          Another girl, leaded by Aoife, joins the discussion, speaking somewhat outraged about the world beyond the ocean, " Our wine is served in great palaces among the world, by those sharp-eared shitheads, clashed above their war tables and bathed in at those parties. But no one gives credit to the real people who know the recipe of the wine. "

          " Don't start, Zuleyha. " The other female pleads, rolling her eyes as she unties her kerchief, revealing her long neck and voluminous chest, speckled with hickies. " Thaibar is on the map thanks to us. No one can steal this wine from us. "

          " Shut up, Minodora. You know I'm right. Those damned rich creatures drink our sweat and then brag that the people in the palace made the wine, not us, the peasants. This wine - " Zuleyha says and hits the glass with her purple stained fingers, " It's been made by my father since he was seven. Fucking seven. Honey and grapefruit peels, a very rare ingredient, and the vines must not be planted or moved, they must be left to give birth alone, in the forest, near the river. They have to be gathered by birds and protected by the leaves of oaks. Nothing is by chance, everything is a gift from above. That is why our wine is divine. "

          " That's why Thaibar is divine. " Minodora corrects her.

          " Sounds like a ritual. " I add, already intoxicated by the richness of the alcohol.

          " It really is. "

          " Cyan, finish you drink, let me teach you how to dance. "

          I grab Niven's outstretched hands after I finish the last drop of wine in one gulp and let myself be carried by her to the burning fire.

          Although Nivy was an amazing instructor, holding my waist and moving me to the drums, this dance was something more about learning to feel it, not the steps. It required more than a glass of wine and a little more debauchery and revelry. I took the opportunity to teach myself to move slightly gracious, to raise my hands while twirling them and move my hips soft enough to not make it look vulgar.

          It was like learning a small part of belly dance too.

          You had to lose yourself in jumps and cross steps, pirouettes and undulations. Everything came together: from the sweat provided by heat and the small gusts of wind that made you fly through movements, from the ground that anchored you when you landed. It was a dance of nature, elements and people.

          Shum also makes his presence felt in one of the dancing circles. While we exchange partners, he comes face to face to me, to his horror.

          But I am the one taken by surprise.

          " I'm sorry for my behavior today. " He admits, making me raise my eyebrows high enough to reach the stars.

          I frown, and refuse to let him lead the dance. One of my biggest problems when having a pair was this, not letting the man guide me through the steps.

          He mimics me, and raises his thick eyebrows too, pulling me closer to him. Shum holds my palm and my waist, with a soft, boyish grip. His green irises were flooded by alcohol.

          " Don't worry about it, Shum. I hope we can get along. I'm sorry for feeding your dogs. "

          The boy hesitates for a minute, then looks at me, " I didn't think to say this but I am drunk and... Thank you, for taking care of the mare this morning. "

          I step on his foot, stunned by his words, and murmur a clumsy apology with my lips. I anchor my hand on his shoulder and try my best to not break his confession.

          " She managed to crawl onto the bed you improvised and even ate the fruits you cut... My mother told me. "

          " You gave your mother an apologize? "

          " Yes. It was unfair of me and I felt... terrible. Let's start over again. What do you say? "

          Nodding, I accept his proposal.

          This was a nice ending to a tiring day. I could see a shy light at the end of this tunnel, but there was something holding me back, preventing me from feeling free: something was wrong, something atrocious was going to happen and I couldn't shake the sensation of my shoulders.

-----------

Notes:

Hello! This chapter has only one point of view and is unedited. I tried to post it as fast as possible. The next one is already written, but I have to translate it and it can take a few days.

Also, the next chapter is only about the Inner Circle.

Kisses and hugs! :*

[caffeinatedcursedcutie]

Whumpee kept up her polite smile, her head swimming with the symphony of fragrances wafted through the room, a blend of delicate perfumes and the aroma of meals being served, some of which she couldn’t even pronounce the names of. The hum of conversations, clinking of glasses and silverware making it hard to narrow in on the person in front of her, trying to talk in polite conversation that she doesn’t give a shit about in the first place. Eventually, she realized they had asked her something, and leaned in closer as if the noise of the ballroom is what caused her to miss the question. “Ah! Showtime already? Of course, best to be up to the stage!” She offered a smile, standing and tossing her fancy napkin off her lap, onto the forgotten plate of food that she was too nauseated to eat. Her entire head lurched as she did so, and she sucked in a sharp breath over the usually effortless and automatic motion caused a dull, throbbing pain across her ribs. Being shoved into a beautiful dress with bruises blooming across her skin, each movement, each breath, serves as a poignant reminder of the bruised ribs she had sustained while being the face of the city, the hero they deserved. 

A deep set weariness made her sway on her feet, which she covered up by stepping across the ballroom, around the back to the stage stairs. Another rattling breath, and she stepped up across the stage with a dazzling smile. “Ladies and gentlemen, our own wonderful…” 

The sound of the announcer’s deep voice blended into the murmur of the crowd, a crowd that to her looked like a sea of shining accessories and silhouettes of people turning their gaze to her, a never ending audience that demanded more, more, always more from her. 

She sucked a breath through her teeth before picking up the microphone, the closest thing to silence that the ballroom could offer, the droning buzz of talk quieting down to something that didn’t make her head throb quite so terribly. “Give me my robe, put on my crown. I have immortal longings in me.” Her tongue snaked between her chapped lips, barely covered in lipstick that tasted of vanilla.

“Now, no more. The juice of Egypt's grape shall moist this lip. Yare, yare, good Iras; quick! Me thinks I hear Antony call. I see him arouse himself, to praise my noble act.” 

The pain in her side made her give pause, pressing her hand into her ribcage and hiding it as part of the performance, holding her torso as if in great grief. 

“I hear him mock the luck of Caesar, which the gods give men, to excuse their after wrath.” She sucked in a breath, the beating of her own heart banging against her skull like a tidal wave. 

“Oh, husband, I come: now to that name my courage prove my title! I am fire and air; my other elements I give to baser life. So; have you done?” Heat was crawling up her spine, pain, red as the sunsets that marred the sky of her city, fighting against her every word. 

“Come then, and take the last warmth of my lips. Farewell, kind Charmian; Iras, long farewell. Have I the aspic in my lips? Dost fall? If thou and nature can so gently part, the stroke of death is as a lover's pinch.” 

The words, she should know what the next word was. The crowds adored her for this talent, breathing life into the poetry that was otherwise dead on the page, and yet she found a falter in her words. 

“Which hurts, and is desired. Dost thou lie still?”

She shut her eyes. Just for a moment, just lost in the performance, but not to look as if she felt something wrong with her body, the pain making her breath stutter and her mind missing the words. Time stuttered, a second feeling like an eternity, and it was a great effort to speak again.. 

“If thus thou vanishest, thou tell'st the world, it is…it is not…” 

Her thoughts dissolved into silence, the world eclipsed into a void as her body fell to the floor.

[the-cultivated-home]

Lemon Thyme: A Journey Through Fragrant History and Gardening Triumphs.

Welcome to the world of Lemon thyme, where fragrance dances on the breeze and culinary adventures await. Unearth the history, unravel the secrets of successful cultivation, and unlock the magic of Lemon thyme. From soil secrets to sunlight desires, wateri

Picture yourself in a vibrant garden, the air filled with the invigorating aroma of fresh herbs. Among them stands an unsung hero—a petite yet potent herb known as Lemon thyme. With its delicate leaves and captivating fragrance, Lemon thyme has woven its way into the hearts and gardens of herb enthusiasts around the world. In this blog post, we embark on a journey through the enchanting world of…

[areixyn-en]

Fragrance of Evil

The fragrance of hyacinths abruptly filled her nostrils. Water type, coming from number 4.

Aimee marks the answer on her answer sheet quietly. This is the Test of Perceptual Abilities, the test for measuring a perceiver’s acuity given by the government.

Legend has it that god gave some humans the magic to manipulate elements of the world. However, they instead use their powerful abilities to do evil — even now, incidents of wizards wreaking havoc are still being reported on the news.

Aimee doesn't know what kind of god lets people they chose abuse the power they gave them, but at least god doesn't completely favor wizards — god also created perceivers. Perceivers can’t use magic, but they can sense traces of magic. Whenever magic is used, traces of magic are created, and perceivers can thus identify the wizard that used magic.

Therefore, perceivers took on the responsibility of maintaining social order. Since a perceiver’s abilities are discovered, they are sent to designated kindergartens to receive training and improve their acuity of sensing traces of magic. The second a perceiver senses a trace of magic, they should be able to identify the user and the type of magic used. This is the ability every qualified perceiver should have. After leaving kindergarten, perceivers should also attend regular Tests of Perceptual Abilities to ensure that their abilities are in the best condition.

This time, it’s the scent of jasmines from wind-type magic. It’s from wizard number 7. Aimee colors in the corresponding blank. The sound of pencils scrubbing against paper can be heard across the room.

A light aroma of roses from number 5. Fire magic.

A cool scent of mint. Earth magic.

Wind again, but number 3 this time. There are only 4 types of magic, after all. There isn’t much to be tested.

Before she knew it, the last question ended. The bell signifying the end of the test rings, and the supervisors take away the answer sheets.

Aimee takes a deep breath to relax her overused nose. After packing her belongings, Aimee stands up to leave.

Before leaving the exam room, Aimee glances at the wizards standing by the wall. They surround the room, wearing clothes with the original color barely recognizable and a number card hanging from their neck.

One of them looks at her. She can’t tell what emotion the other has behind the emotionless front. Hatred, perhaps? These are the heroes who caused their downfall, after all. Wizards here most likely got reported by a perceiver.

She looks away. In the end, after getting reported and imprisoned in Tarus — the prison for wizards, how the wizards are treated in there…

Has nothing to do with her.

[vanillascentedperfume5]

Enhance Your Style with Vanilla Scented Perfume

This oil in is created from baobab oil, which is full   vanilla scented perfume nutritional vitamins B and C, each   vanilla scented perfume that are tremendous moisturizing. It's blended with notes   vanilla scented perfume vanilla bean, vanilla orchid, and coconut, and we discover that it stays on our skin for hours learn more. 

This perfume does double duty with vanilla using both bourbon vanilla bean and Madagascar vanilla bean extract with a contact vanilla scented perfume florals. It's designed to get higher together with your body's heat and chemistry. It's simple to see—or smell—why Byredo is so popular, and Vanille Antique, one   vanilla scented perfume the brand's night time veil scents, would not disappoint. You could be expecting something tremendous candy with opening notes like freesia and plum, but the heart and base notes   vanilla scented perfume amber and cashmere woods add an Earthy sophistication.

This is literally considered one vanilla scented perfume my favourite perfumes   vanilla scented perfume all time, and just about everyone who I've hugged while carrying this fragrance has agreed. It's been my signature ever since its launch, and the reality that Zendaya (my hero) is the face   vanilla scented perfume this mix   vanilla scented perfume vanilla, jasmine, citrus, and musk makes it excellent. I've at all times been a Lancôme stan (in addition to Chanel's perfumes—my mom wore a few   vanilla scented perfume its staple scents), so it's a warm and fuzzy line   vanilla scented perfume fragrances that is only punctuated with this sweet aroma. Another favourite perfume   vanilla scented perfume VanDerMillen's is that this basic designer choose, which simply obtained a new, extra intense model. Despite its 4 vanilla notes, this perfume is not overly candy, however somewhat mature and balanced—everything I need a vanilla perfume to be. Vanilla fragrances are probably to really feel warm and comfy, but that does not imply that they can not work for summer.

Another large draw to Henry Rose perfumes, besides their unbelievable scents, is their commitment to sustainability and transparency. The Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 'sixty two scent "completely encapsulates the essence   vanilla scented perfume joyful summer season days," Mary Honkus, a contributing magnificence author, advised Cosmo. Snag the Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Cream , and you'll be the yummiest-smelling person round. I’m legit obsessive about Le Monde Gourmande, an reasonably priced line   vanilla scented perfume fragrances that features this light and sweet vanilla fragrance. It’s positively decadent—hello, vanilla, brown sugar, and apricot—but the amber and jasmine help tone it down a bit from being too rich and heavy. I truly put on this in big crowds a lot with out worrying it’ll give someone a headache.

The 12 Finest Vanilla Perfumes To Spritz On Now, Examined By Magnificence Editors

In fact, it was impressed by Venice, one   vanilla scented perfume the cities Gabrielle Chanel fell in love with after the death   vanilla scented perfume her lover, Boy Capel. The groundbreaking caramel-gourmand vanilla fragrance   vanilla scented perfume the 90s still makes a statement at present. Stash this travel-friendly flacon in your go-bag and you'll remember to go away a lasting impression wherever you might roam. Inspired by the North African desert, the place vanilla incense is burned as a chilled night ritual, Sana Jardin's Vanilla Nomad cocoons skin in a heat haze   vanilla scented perfume vanilla, s  vanilla scented perfumet sandalwood, jasmine, and vetiver. Think matcha tea, spiced with turmeric and a touch   vanilla scented perfume creamy vanilla—with a touch   vanilla scented perfume floral magnolia and powdery orris thrown in for good measure. Lovely, lingering, and something you will want to scent repeatedly.

One spray   vanilla scented perfume Jo Malone's Vetiver & Golden Vanilla could have the compliments rolling in. Henry Rose perfumes are EWG verified and one hundred pc ingredient transparent. Grown-up takes on gourmand, according to an editor who has tried tons   vanilla scented perfume.

The Alien Goddess pairs citrusy and earthy Italian bergamot, vanilla bean, and jasmine (how ironic!), making it excellent for summer season put on. It smells so delicate and delicate, however still has a punch from the vanilla. Sorry, Jasmine, but I may need to steal your signature scent.

Greatest Vanilla Perfumes That'll Make You Odor Like A Literal Snack

Choosing between the three is a matter   vanilla scented perfume private choice and pores and skin and nose sensitivity. Here, Harris breaks down the pros and cons   vanilla scented perfume every sort   vanilla scented perfume perfume. Erin has been writing a mixture   vanilla scented perfume magnificence and wellness content material for Who What Wear for over four years. Prior to that, she spent two and half years writing for Byrdie. She now calls Santa Monica house however grew up in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and studied writing, rhetoric, and communication at University   vanilla scented perfume Wisconsin, La Crosse.

And if a chocolate and vanilla fragrance sounds artificial to you, don’t worry—it’s additionally full   vanilla scented perfume musk and hinoki wooden that make the chocolate notes scent like heat and spicy cinnamon to me. Kate Moss’ Cosmoss Sacred Mist is described as a wellness perfume, that means it not only   vanilla scented perfumefers a gentle white floral scent but also aims to impart feelings   vanilla scented perfume calm with each spritz. For me, this perfume smells extremely comforting, with both fresh notes courtesy   vanilla scented perfume jasmine and tuberose as nicely as creaminess from cedarwood and tonka bean.

As MC's Art Director Brittany Holloway Brown puts it, the mix is a "match made in heaven." Adding cardamom, lavender, and sage   vanilla scented perfumefers it much more   vanilla scented perfume a grounding feel. Personally, I would discover this scent irresistible on a person, but I also love wearing it myself whenever I need slightly something different. I even had someone compliment my perfume on the subway whereas sporting this, so it'll always be a standout in my assortment. Fantasy Intense is a deeper, spicier variation on the traditional fruity gourmand Fantasy fragrance, which makes it feel somewhat extra distinctive and grown up. It is heavy with patchouli so should you aren’t a fan you might want to stick with the original, however should you love a more musky perfume give the extreme a go. Vanilla perfumes are a forever-safe alternative for any event, be it for a date-night, a day within the workplace or ladies' night.

When blended with musk, wooden, or resins, vanilla can create a heat and comforting scent. When added to citrus or floral notes, it brings depth, fullness, and edge to a perfume. You'll see its wonderful versatility in our record   vanilla scented perfume the most effective vanilla perfumes. For this piece, ELLE.com magnificence editor Katie Berohn and wonder commerce editor Nerisha Penrose scoured the internet and editors’ stashes to find one   vanilla scented perfume the best vanilla perfumes on the market.

I bear in mind a friend gifted me a bottle   vanilla scented perfume Coleen Rooney’s perfume, the unsurprisingly named ‘Coleen x’, for my sixteenth birthday and I was instantly obsessive about the sunshine, floral fragrance. Luxurious, opulent, and stimulating are the first words that come to thoughts once we odor this. Captivating patchouli awakens the senses with its earthy, sweet, and musky aroma. Woody amber, musk, and bergamot are the proper complements, adding a bit   vanilla scented perfume depth and thriller.

I'm a sucker for sweet scents, so, after all, most   vanilla scented perfume the greatest vanilla perfumes take up area in my fragrance rotation. Don't get me mistaken, florals and musks have their place — even in some   vanilla scented perfume my go-to vanilla fragrances — however there's one thing in regards to the sweet warmth   vanilla scented perfume a creamy vanilla note that retains me captivated year-round. I'm not speaking about the ultra-gourmand body sprays   vanilla scented perfume yesteryear (no shade, I'm nonetheless a fan   vanilla scented perfume those, too), however subtle, grown-up takes on classic vanilla bean-based spritzes.

Sol de Janeiro’s Sol Cheirosa is the grown-up model   vanilla scented perfume a fun summer season day. In Sol de Janeiro’s world, summer season feels heat (sandalwood, vanilla), sweet (pistachio, caramel), and shiny (jasmine petals). If warm vanilla scents are your thing (or even when they're not), maintain reading to find a few   vanilla scented perfume the most delectably mouth-watering scents that are sure to turn out to be your subsequent signature scents.

The emphasis on natural elements makes it a wonderful selection for those with sensitivities or a desire for eco-conscious merchandise, too. And if you do need to switch it up with some totally different notes, the brand makes other fragrances, like “Vanilla Coconut” and “Vanilla Grapefruit” that scent equally scrumptious. While I really have by no means smelled Ariana Grande myself, I am pretty confident she would odor precisely like this fragrance in particular person. Its prime notes   vanilla scented perfume juicy plum and pink freesia are balanced out by creamy vanilla and cocoa butter, giving it a warm, musky vibe, even hours after it’s been first sprayed on. Even higher, it’s made with clear components that are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. The heat and comforting odor is usually blended with other, extra sophisticated notes—not just sweet ones.

When I first sprayed it on my pores and skin, it kind   vanilla scented perfume smelled like a bubblegum-flavored marshmallow—but as quickly as it dried, I obtained hints   vanilla scented perfume spicy pink pepper, coriander, and musk that gave it some rich depth. I get an ever-so-slight whisper   vanilla scented perfume the orange blossom, nevertheless it essentially just helps all   vanilla scented perfume the sweet goodness all through. These days, nonetheless, I’m pleased to say my perfume tastes have come a great distance. In recent years, I’ve found myself turning my nostril up at celebrity fragrances, shortly passing them   vanilla scented perfumef as overly sweet or fruity and lacking in the extra luxurious notes I now love in a fragrance. That was until just lately, the place a wave   vanilla scented perfume celebrities have once once more turned their hand to crafting scent, however this time round, it is elevated superstar perfumes which are having a second.

If you’re a fan   vanilla scented perfume a rose perfume with a twist, I can’t recommend Rihanna’s Fenty enough. It’s sweetly floral but also musky at the identical time and harking back to Turkish delight being eaten someplace scorching while incense burns in the background. I can’t say it’s the perfume I expected from Rihanna (to me, she’d be spritzing one thing darker, extra sultry) however it's a pretty wealthy, summer scent that feels accessible but distinctive. Founded by Michelle Pfeiffer, Henry Rose is among the chicest and most clear lines   vanilla scented perfume fantastic fragrances you have to learn about. I've been astounded on the attention it is garnered on the workplace when I spritz it at my desk. It's a woody fragrance because   vanilla scented perfume sandalwood, but it will get a fresh, creamy sweetness from clean additions like violet, vanilla, coco musk, and freesia.

Personally, I choose ethereal and lightweight scents to deliver with me while I travel, as I know I'll at all times be within the mood to wear them. This one is made with vanilla, contemporary pear, and rose, so it combines both floral and citrus notes for that pop   vanilla scented perfume freshness. Sometimes, our desire to odor like a tropical vacation leaves us with limited scent options which are infantile and gimmicky.

A musky amber gourmand that sits near the skin, inviting others to lean in. The eye-catching flacon is alone worth the value, and the scent is a lavender-vanilla nuzzle that smells top shelf. Here, the spice's sweetness is couched in zesty citrus, radiant orange flower absolute, pretty-as-anything Egyptian jasmine, and aquatic waterlily. As if the scent weren't vibe-enhancing sufficient, each Vyrao bottle additionally incorporates a charged Herkimer diamond. For scents that last all day, very few come close to Amber Oud by Al Haramain.

Don’t worry—a vanilla scent doesn’t have to be cloyingly sweet, like the vanilla-tinged fragrances   vanilla scented perfume our youth. In fact, many new generation vanillas are smoky, woodsy, or even fresh. Vanilla can add a creamy depth to fragrances that makes them far more wearable. Our favorite vanilla scents are attractive, simple to wear, and the source   vanilla scented perfume infinite compliments.

From Victoria Beckham Beauty’s fragrance collection to Kate Moss’s wellness fragrance, the perfect superstar perfumes are not as they used to be. Forget the saccharine physique sprays that clouded your high school classrooms, vanilla has grown-up with us and it's firmly back on the radar with a increase   vanilla scented perfume gorgeous vanilla scents main sales. At LookFantastic, search demand for vanilla-scented perfumes is up by 65% and a quantity   vanilla scented perfume retailers have seen YSL's Libre (a luxurious blend   vanilla scented perfume lavender and vanilla) high the charts.

Well, that is precisely what this fragrance smells like, in the easiest way possible. Just like the name suggests, the perfume smells shockingly close to candy milk. However, after it dries down and into a few hours   vanilla scented perfume damage, this perfume transforms into more   vanilla scented perfume a light-weight, creamy smell paying homage to chocolate chip cookie dough (it does have notes   vanilla scented perfume cocoa shell, after all). While this scent is deliciously candy, do not get it confused with the saccharine scents   vanilla scented perfume the 2000s.

Inspired by Mona Kattan's bestselling fragrance, Vanilla 28, this sultrier blend is value a spritz. It's an eclectic mixture   vanilla scented perfume candy vanilla, delicate golden rum, sugared patchouli, crème brulée, and royal oud. The odor   vanilla scented perfume vanilla is refined but elementary to this perfume. It's a floral scent due to citrus, rose, and jasmine, however its vanilla base makes it sophisticated and fashionable. WH e-commerce editor Jasmine Gomez smelled so good on the workplace this week, I had to ask her what fragrance she was sporting.

[giftshopfestival]

Unique and Personalized Gifts for Parents That Will Make Their Day

Choosing the perfect gift for your parents can be a daunting task, especially when you want to make it memorable and special. Personalized gifts stand out because they show thoughtfulness, care, and effort, making them more meaningful. Whether it’s for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or Christmas, the right gift can convey your love and appreciation in a special way. Here, we explore some fantastic personalized gift ideas for your parents that will leave a lasting impression.

This Is What Awesome Dad Looks Like T-shirt

Finding the perfect Father's Day gift can be challenging, but nothing says 'awesome' quite like the "This is What Awesome Dad Looks Like" T-shirt. This stylish tee is more than just a piece of clothing; it’s a tribute to the man who has always been your hero, your confidant, and your biggest supporter.

Imagine your dad wearing this shirt with pride, knowing it was specially chosen for him. It’s comfortable, practical, and lets everyone know just how much he means to you. Great for weekend outings, backyard barbecues, or just lounging around the house, this T-shirt is a versatile addition to his wardrobe.

Additionally, this T-shirt can be customized to include a special message or your dad's favorite slogan, making it even more personal. Every time he wears it, he’ll be reminded of your love and appreciation for everything he does.

To a Wonderful Mom Scented Soy Candle

When it comes to Mother's Day gifts, few things are as universally appreciated as a beautifully scented candle. The "To a Wonderful Mom" Scented Soy Candle is an exceptional choice that combines elegance and practicality. It’s more than just a candle—it’s a statement of your love and appreciation.

This candle comes with a lovely fragrance that will fill her home with a soothing aroma, offering a moment of relaxation and tranquility. Each time she lights it, she’ll be reminded of your heartfelt message and the special bond you share.

Soy candles are also environmentally friendly, burning cleaner and longer than traditional paraffin candles. This means your gift will not only be cherished but also sustainable. Plus, you can even choose a scent that you know she will love, making it even more personalized.

Sorry About Your Other Children Custom Mug for Mother

Humor can be a great way to show your affection, and the "Sorry About Your Other Children" Custom Mug is perfect for Mother's Day. This funny and unique gift is sure to bring a smile to her face every time she uses it.

This mug is not just a vessel for her morning coffee; it’s a daily reminder of the special bond you share. It’s a playful way to acknowledge the quirks and laughs that make your relationship unique. Made from high-quality ceramic, this mug is durable and microwave-safe, making it practical as well as amusing.

You can customize the mug with your own message or even add a family photo to make it extra special. It’s a perfect blend of humor and personalization that your mom will treasure.

Mom, Papa, and Cherry Customize Ceramic Mug

For a more traditional yet personalized gift, the "Mom, Papa, and Cherry" Customize Ceramic Mug is an excellent choice. This 15-ounce white ceramic mug is not only practical but also offers endless customization options.

Whether you want to include a family photo, a special message, or a fun design, this mug can be tailored to fit your needs. It’s microwave-safe and dishwasher-friendly, making it a convenient addition to your parents' kitchen.

Every time they enjoy their morning coffee or tea, they’ll think of you and the effort you put into creating such a thoughtful gift. It’s a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation on any special occasion.

Mums Coffee Flower Mug

Looking for a unique DIY gift idea for Christmas? The "Mums Coffee Flower" Mug is perfect for crafting a heartfelt present. Instead of store-bought gifts, encourage your children to create their own masterpieces this holiday season.

This mug can be decorated with hand-drawn designs, fingerprints, or messages from the kids. It’s a delightful way to involve young children in the gift-giving process, making the present even more special. Parents will cherish these handmade keepsakes, and children will enjoy the creativity involved in making them.

This DIY gift idea is not only fun but also adds a personal touch that store-bought gifts often lack. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the holidays with a memorable and meaningful present.

Mom's Last Nerve Scented Soy Candle

For parents with young children, safety and practicality are key when choosing a gift. The "Mom's Last Nerve" Scented Soy Candle offers a safe and mess-free alternative that still provides a touch of humor and relaxation.

This candle comes with a humorous label that will undoubtedly bring a smile to her face. It’s a great way to acknowledge the challenges of parenthood with a lighthearted twist. Plus, the soothing scent will help create a calming atmosphere at home.

Soy candles are a great choice for families as they burn cleanly and are less likely to cause allergies. This makes them a safe and thoughtful gift for parents with young children, combining practicality with a touch of humor.

Journal

A journal can be a deeply personal and meaningful gift for any occasion. It offers a space for your parents to reflect, plan, and document their thoughts and experiences. You can choose a beautifully bound journal and personalize it with their name or a special message on the cover.

Journaling has many benefits, including reducing stress, enhancing creativity, and improving mental clarity. It’s a gift that encourages self-care and mindfulness, making it a thoughtful choice for Mother's Day, Father's Day, or Christmas.

Consider pairing the journal with a high-quality pen set to complete the gift. It’s a simple yet elegant way to show your parents that you care about their well-being and personal growth.

Florist Mama Printed Sweatshirt

For a cozy and practical Christmas gift, consider the "Florist Mama" Printed Sweatshirt. This comfortable and stylish sweatshirt is perfect for the winter months and can be customized with a personal message or design.

The sweatshirt is made from high-quality materials, ensuring it’s both warm and durable. It’s a great way for your mom to stay comfortable while showcasing a personalized touch. Whether she’s running errands or relaxing at home, this sweatshirt will keep her cozy and remind her of your thoughtful gift.

Personalized clothing items like this sweatshirt are not only practical but also add a unique and personal touch to any wardrobe. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the holidays with a gift that’s both functional and meaningful.

Heart a Blaze, Mom's Grace, White, Scented Soy Candle

The "Heart a Blaze, Mom's Grace" White Scented Soy Candle is another excellent choice for a personalized Mother's Day gift. This elegant candle combines beauty and functionality, offering a soothing fragrance that will fill her home with tranquility.

The candle’s white design adds a touch of sophistication, making it a beautiful addition to any decor. Personalized with a heartfelt message, it becomes a cherished keepsake that she’ll treasure for years to come.

Soy candles are known for their clean burn and long-lasting fragrance, making them a sustainable and thoughtful gift choice. This candle is a perfect way to show your mom how much you appreciate her grace and love.

[jolybeautyofficial]

Sandalwood Oil: Nature's Gift for Glowing Skin

For centuries, cultures around the world have revered sandalwood for its rich fragrance and therapeutic properties. But did you know sandalwood oil can also be a game-changer for your skincare routine? Here at Joly Beauty, we believe in harnessing the power of natural ingredients, and sandalwood oil is a true gem in our collection.

Extracted from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree, this essential oil boasts a warm, woody scent and a treasure trove of benefits for your skin. Let's delve into why sandalwood oil deserves a spot on your bathroom shelf:

Soothe the Savage Beast: Struggling with irritated, inflamed skin? Sandalwood oil's anti-inflammatory properties come to the rescue! It can help calm redness, ease breakouts, and soothe conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Hydration Hero: Dry, flaky skin doesn't stand a chance against sandalwood oil. This natural oil acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and keeping it plump and hydrated.

Mattifying Marvel: For those with oily skin, sandalwood oil can be a godsend. Its astringent properties help control excess sebum production, leaving your skin shine-free and balanced.

Anti-Aging Ally: Worried about wrinkles and fine lines? Sandalwood oil's antioxidant power helps fight free radicals, those pesky molecules that damage skin cells and contribute to aging.

Scent-sational Self-Care: Beyond its skin benefits, the calming aroma of sandalwood oil can enhance your self-care routine. Its woody fragrance promotes relaxation and reduces stress, making it a perfect addition to your nighttime skincare ritual.

While sandalwood oil offers a multitude of benefits, it's important to remember that everyone's skin is unique. Here at Joly Beauty, we recommend consulting a dermatologist or esthetician before introducing any new product to your routine. They can advise on the best way to incorporate sandalwood oil into your skincare regimen based on your specific needs.

Ready to experience the magic of sandalwood oil for yourself? Joly Beauty offers a range of natural skincare products infused with this precious ingredient. Explore our collection and discover the power of sandalwood oil for a healthier, more radiant you. Remember, beautiful skin is achievable with the right natural ingredients, and sandalwood oil might be the key to unlocking your inner glow!

[lemaharaja]

Discovering Indian Spices: A Symphony of Aromas

Greetings, culinary enthusiasts! Join me on a delightful exploration into the heart of Indian cooking, where an array of aromatic spices transforms each dish into a culinary masterpiece. Welcome to "Discovering Indian Spices: A Symphony of Aromas."

Close your eyes and imagine the lively streets of India, where the air is filled with the captivating fragrance of spices. That enchantment is precisely what we are about to unravel.

1. Garam Masala: Pulsating Flavors of Indian Cuisine

Envision a fragrant blend of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander – the secret behind the pulsating flavors of Indian cuisine. Garam Masala, the heartbeat of our dishes, adds warmth and depth to favorites like curries and biryanis.

2. Turmeric: The Golden Touch

Let's delve into turmeric, the golden essence that not only imparts vibrant colors to our dishes but also brings along anti-inflammatory properties. A superhero spice, turmeric leaves its mark on both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights.

3. Cumin: Earthy Wonders Unveiled

Ah, cumin! Picture the warm, earthy flavor that seamlessly integrates into every spice blend. Whether it's aloo gobi or spiced rice, cumin is the unsung hero that gives our dishes that unmistakable Indian character.

4. Coriander: Fresh and Herbaceous Notes

Now, let's explore coriander in its seed and leaf forms. Ground coriander adds a refreshing, citrusy note to our spice blends, while fresh coriander leaves, known as cilantro, embellish many of our Indian delicacies.

5. Cardamom: The Regal Spice

Last but not least, cardamom – the regal touch with its sweet and floral aroma. Cardamom graces our desserts, chai tea, and various curries, crowning them with an exquisite flavor.

Summary: A Culinary Odyssey Through Indian Spices

In summary, what we've uncovered is more than just a list of spices; it's a symphony of flavors, a dance of aromas that creates an unparalleled culinary experience. Garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cardamom – they are the artists in the masterpiece that is Indian cooking.

Now, if you find yourself in Paris and crave the magic of Indian spices, allow me to introduce you to a hidden gem. Welcome to Le Maharaja, nestled at 27 Av. Reille, 75014 Paris. Here, you can immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of India amidst the charm of Parisian dining.

Contact Details for Le Maharaja - Bringing Indian Flavors to Paris

Address: 27 Av. Reille, 75014 Paris

Contact Number: 09 50 93 81 48

Website: https://lemaharajaparis14.fr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeMaharajafr/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lemaharajaparis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lemaharajaparis

Whether you're a seasoned lover of Indian cuisine or a curious newcomer, Le Maharaja invites you to savor the magic of aromatic spices in every bite. It's a culinary experience that transcends borders, bringing the essence of India to the heart of Paris. Bon appétit! Lien Google Map:

[mantraherbal]

Of all flowers, methinks a rose is best.” - William Shakespeare 

In Sanskrit, the rose flower is referred to as “Shatavari”, meaning, a flower with hundred petals. Ayurvedic textbook refers to rose water as the best ingredient that balances “Sadhaka Pitta”, a sub-dosha of Pitta, which controls our emotion and its effect on heart and thoughts. Rose water is also considered as “Tridoshic” as it aids in balancing Vata, Pitta and Kapha. The history of rosewater dates back to 10th century in Persia, where it was used to accentuate the beauty and elegance of kings and queens in ancient times. 

A fragrant beauty tonic created by distillation of rose petals in water is known as Best Rose Water for Face . It is a potent source of anti-oxidants, minerals and vitamins that boosts skin radiance and provides hydration. According to Ayurveda, the rose water has anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing and anti-bacterial properties that make it a hero ingredient for treating myriad skin problems such as redness, dryness, dehydration and open pores. Apart from this, having cooling properties, it also improves digestion and relieves acidity and heartburn. 

One of the best advantage of Rose water found in ingredient list of any cosmetic product, is that it suits all skin types and gives a healthy glow to the skin. This champion ingredient has attracted many skincare enthusiasts to imbibe in daily skincare needs. Kannauj, the perfume distillery city of India has been the master creator of 100% pure rose water in the world. 

I have come across different Rose Water products on the Instagram. Different brands promise different results on face.  But, there’s one brand that triumphs over all – Mantra Herbal. I got to know about Mantra Herbal’s Gulab Arka, from a beauty influencer on a social media platform. I was astonished to witness the diverse methods demonstrated for Gulab Arka as a multi-tasker aesthetic tonic. 

 The brand, Mantra Herbal descends from the legacy of Baidyanath, which has a century of expertise in making ayurvedic products. The most highlighting feature of this PETA-certified brand is that they have identified twelve toxic chemicals such as Parabens, SLS, SLES, Artificial color and fragrances. These twelve harmful chemicals are cited as “The Dirty Dozen” and excluded from the products. This makes Mantra Herbal a brand that follows transparent labeling policy in which a consumer consciously knows about all the ingredients in the product.  The other spotlight aspect of this conscious beauty brand that it has curated all the products based on the basic principles of Ayurveda – Vata, Pitta & Kapha. They have unique products that aim to pacify all the three doshas.

As mentioned earlier, Gulab Arka is Mantra Herbal’s most iconic product that has been a super seller since its inception. Infused with the finest quality of rose extracts from Kannauj, this rose water balances pH, provides intense hydration and enhances complexion. Being entirely free from toxic chemicals, Gulab Arka can be used as a facial toner post-cleansing. Every drop of this super-charged antioxidant elixir calms skin rashes, redness and breakouts for oily skin. The mesmerizing floral aroma energizes mind and body. Add Gulab Arka in your freshly prepared homemade face mask to boost glow in weekly skincare routine. For extremely dry skin in winters, you may add a few drops of Glycerin and massage onto your face for locking moisture after bath. At night, sprinkle this rose water onto face and neck before applying your most-loved facial oil for complete skin rejuvenation. 

Gulab Arka’s versatile property makes it an excellent scalp tonic to treat scalp dryness and itchiness. If binge watching a web series makes your eyes tired, then this product works as an instant eye refresher that shreds away tiredness and puffiness. Or if dark circles have been bothering you then you may spray Gulab Arka in a cotton ball and keep it pated on eyes for relaxation. Especially during summers, add 5ml to 10ml of rose water in Thandai, a well known Indian cold-drink, to boost digestion and alleviate bloating.

Rose water is a mega-hit ingredient in the cosmetic industry for its benefits for skin. Mantra Herbal’s Gulab Arka is quite a differentiating product that I have used personally. The superior grade quality, reasonable price and travel friendly packaging will definitely make you a true fan of this product.

[societyteaseo]

Sipping Stories: Spill the Tea Over Green Tea

Green tea steals the spotlight in the world of tea, especially when friends come together for some enjoyment. Imagine a cozy gathering with friends, each holding a cup and surrounded by the lively fragrance of green tea powder. The ritual kicks off as the powder gracefully dances into hot water, creating a delightful aroma that fills the air. This aromatic introduction sets the scene for honest confessions and entertaining anecdotes. The lively energy of green tea powder mirrors the spirited conversations, turning each sip into a vibrant note in the symphony of friendship.

For those who appreciate simplicity, only leaf green tea takes center stage. Envision full leaves gracefully unfurling in hot water, symbolizing the unfolding of shared stories. Each leaf transforms into a chapter, and friends delve into their narratives. Leaf green tea quietly emerges as the unsung hero of these heart-to-heart conversations. Flavoured green tea, like herbal green tea, adds a fun vibe to the tea table. This makes the gathering a sensory experience with fruity, flowery, or exotic scents inspiring imaginative stories. Friends dive into flavor adventures, sharing tales sparked by the allure of mango-infused green tea or the comforting warmth of spiced blends. Each cup becomes a flavorful chapter in the book of friendship. When friends share stories over green tea, it's more than a drink; it turns into a shared experience beyond taste. It's about storytelling, laughter, and enjoying connections with each delicious sip. Green tea, in its various forms, acts as a catalyst for these special memories, transforming a simple get-together into a collection of shared stories.

So, the next time you gather with friends, let the green tea flow, and witness the stories unfold, creating memories filled with the warmth of friendship. When friends spill the tea over green tea, it goes beyond being just a beverage; it transforms into a shared experience that transcends flavor. It's about weaving tales, sharing laughter, and relishing relationships with every delightful sip. Green tea, presented in its various forms, acts as a catalyst for these cherished memories, turning a casual get-together into a rich tapestry of shared stories. So, the next time you come together with friends, let the green tea flow and witness the stories unfold, creating memories steeped in the warmth of friendship.

[eli-amf]

Hey Yall. Wrote a new blog about my TF2 Character - The Goobler.

The Goobler's backstory unfolds as a tale of accidental exposure to the potent aromas of Aromaland during a secret experiment gone awry. Originally an ordinary citizen with a knack for chemistry, The Goobler became a living experiment when a mysterious portal opened, transporting him to Aromaland. The exposure to the diverse range of fragrances altered his molecular structure, granting him the ability to manipulate body odors based on his emotions. Now, The Goobler embraces his newfound abilities and joins the chaotic battlefield of Team Fortress 2.

Aromaland: The Mysterious Realm

Aromaland, the secretive origin of The Goobler, is a fantastical realm filled with floating islands and aromatic landscapes. Each island is dedicated to a specific scent category, ranging from calming lavender fields to fiery volcanic regions. The air in Aromaland is saturated with unique fragrances, and its mystical properties play a crucial role in The Goobler's powers. The lore of Aromaland adds an intriguing layer to The Goobler's character, making him a bridge between two distinct worlds.

Advanced Olfactory Tactics

As players delve deeper into mastering The Goobler's unique abilities, they discover advanced olfactory tactics that elevate the character's strategic impact. The combination of different odors in quick succession or the synchronization of aromas with other teammates' abilities unlocks powerful synergies. This introduces a high skill ceiling for players who wish to become true olfactory tacticians on the battlefield.

Unlockable Scents and Customization

To further enhance player engagement, The Goobler can unlock additional scents through in-game achievements or special events. These unlockable scents not only offer cosmetic variety but also introduce new tactical possibilities. Customization options include unique fragrant accessories, different colored odors, and even special effects tied to each aroma. This customization allows players to personalize The Goobler to suit their playstyle and showcase their achievements in the form of aromatic flair.

Community Involvement

The introduction of The Goobler provides an opportunity for community engagement and creativity. Valve could organize community-driven events where players submit ideas for new scents or cosmetic items related to The Goobler. This involvement not only fosters a sense of community but also ensures that the character remains dynamic and evolves based on the player base's creativity.

The Goobler's Arch-Nemesis

Every hero needs a worthy adversary, and The Goobler's arch-nemesis could be an antagonist from Aromaland who seeks to exploit the mystical aromas for nefarious purposes. This narrative element could introduce exciting story-driven updates, quests, and challenges that keep players invested in The Goobler's ongoing saga.

Conclusion: The Olfactory Revolution

The Goobler, with his Aromaland-infused origins, advanced olfactory tactics, and community involvement, spearheads an olfactory revolution in Team Fortress 2. The character not only adds a comedic and strategic dimension to the game but also invites players to explore the fantastical lore behind Aromaland. As The Goobler's story unfolds, so too does the fragrant tapestry of TF2, promising a fresh and aromatic experience for both new and veteran players alike.

[ramsons-23]

The Difference Between Perfume and Deodorants

Introduction

In the realm of personal care products, the terms "perfume" and "deodorant" are often used interchangeably, but they serve distinct purposes. Understanding the differences between the two can help you make informed choices about what products to use and when. Let's delve into the nuances that set perfume and deodorants apart.

Perfume

Definition

Perfume, in its broadest sense, refers to a fragrant liquid typically made from a mixture of essential oils, aroma compounds, and solvents. It is designed to impart a pleasant scent to the body, clothing, or living spaces.

Purpose

The primary purpose of perfume is to enhance personal fragrance and make a lasting olfactory impression. It's a finishing touch to personal grooming, often chosen based on individual preferences and style. Perfumes come in various concentrations, including eau de parfum, eau de toilette, and cologne, each varying in intensity and longevity.

Application

Perfume is applied directly to the skin on pulse points, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears. It's a luxurious and concentrated form of fragrance that can linger for hours, making it an essential accessory for special occasions or daily wear.

Deodorants

Definition

Deodorants, on the other hand, are specifically formulated to control body odor caused by the bacterial breakdown of perspiration. They often come in the form of sticks, sprays, or roll-ons and are applied directly to the underarms.

Purpose

The primary purpose of deodorants is to combat and prevent body odor. They typically contain antimicrobial agents that inhibit the growth of bacteria, the main culprits behind the unpleasant smell associated with sweating. Some deodorants may also contain antiperspirant properties to reduce sweat production.

Application

Deodorants are applied to clean, dry underarms to provide protection throughout the day. They offer a more targeted solution for individuals looking to stay fresh and confident, especially during physical activities or in warm climates.

Choosing Between Perfume and Deodorants

When deciding between perfume and deodorants, consider your specific needs. If you're looking to enhance your personal scent and make a lasting impression, opt for a perfume that aligns with your preferences. On the other hand, if your primary concern is staying odor-free and maintaining freshness, a deodorant may be the more suitable choice for your daily routine.

Conclusion

In the world of personal care, both perfume and deodorants play essential roles, albeit with distinct purposes. Perfume is your go-to for adding a touch of luxury and personal expression, while deodorants are the unsung heroes in the battle against body odor. By understanding the differences between these two products, you can curate a personal care routine that keeps you smelling delightful and feeling confident in any situation.