#bath and body works flowering herbs

[y2kbeautyandother2000sstuff]

Bath and Body Works Flowering Herbs Body Splash

1990-1994

Found on worthpoint.com

[sunnymoonxx]

❝erotic melancholia❞ | qimir x reader

pairing: qimir x reader

summary: healing your wounds and sore muscles took longer than expected, so qimir decided to offer you his bathtub in the middle of his cave. along with some side offerings.

warnings: this is more of a short scribble so if you decide to jump in, have a nice stay and enjoy the food, starring very soft and gentle qimir - something to relax to i guess, soft physical touch, sensual touches, comfort, massage?

this is very comforting and romantic, i'd say so all you horndogs can move, with love <3 this is how i want osha and qimir to interact once, GIVE ME THEM FOREHEAD TOUCHES

a/n: as i was writing this a fucking spider dropped on me from the ceiling- i may have had a heart attack and i pissed my pants a little

now playing, 13 beaches by lana del rey

The echo of dripping water resonated through the dimly lit cave, mingling with the soft hum of distant waves crashing against the rocky shore outside. The natural formation of the cave walls created a snug, sheltered alcove where a makeshift bathtub had been fashioned from smoothed stones and lined with soft moss. Small glowing crystals embedded in the rock provided a gentle, otherworldly light that bathed the cavern in a warm, ethereal glow.

You stood at the entrance of the cave, your body aching from the skirmish with the Jedi knights earlier that day. Bruises and shallow cuts adorned your skin, and your muscles protested with every movement. Qimir knelt beside the stone tub, pouring a mixture of healing herbs and soothing oils into the steaming water, the aroma of exotic alien flowers, and restorative essences filling the air.

"I think it's ready now," he said, his voice echoing softly in the enclosed space. He looked up at you with concern etched in his features. "This should help with the soreness."

You managed a weary smile, your gratitude evident despite your exhaustion. "Thank you." You simply smiled, adoring Qimir from the other side of the cave. As much as you appreciated Qimir's work and his loyalty to you, you kept your distance. Even if your heart desired the opposite.

Qimir stood up, giving you space to approach the tub. You noticed he had even placed a new robe and new clothes. Looking at them as you made your way to them, you appreciated he matched your size and taste. You felt a surge of warmth dancing in your chest as you looked at him, his unspoken admiration clear in every thoughtful gesture.

He was beautiful in the dim lit cave, the light reflecting over his sharp features. You didn't want to push him away, but you weren't comfortable taking your clothes in front of him. You didn't mind him seeing you bare, but his stare as you'd take of your clothes made you uneasy and caused a strange feeling in your stomach.

As if he could read your thoughts, which he probably did, he apologised and made his way to the corner of the cave, to make you more comfortable.

"When you're ready, let me know." his voice echoed through the cave, startling you as you carefully took of your robe and pants, gently throwing them on the ground above the tub.

With a deep breath, you stepped into the warm water, the heat instantly beginning to soothe your battered body. You closed your eyes and let out a sigh of relief as the tension started to melt away.

Behind the corner of the cave, Qimir lingered for a moment, ensuring you were under the water before he spoke again.

"May I?" he asked, tenderness in his voice. Smile creeped its way to your lips, his voice warming you more than the water around you.

You opened your eyes and gave him a small nod. "You may."

As he appeared again, he smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkling in that familiar, adorable way.

As he quietly entered the cave, the sounds of the island and the soft hum of the Force filled the space, you sank deeper into the tub. The warmth seeped into your bones, and for the first time in what felt like ages, you allowed yourself to relax, knowing you were safe and cared for in Qimir's hidden sanctuary.

Qimir slowly made his way around you to kneel down behind your back. You kept your eyes closed, dozing off in the warm water that melted your pain away. Slowly, you felt Qimir's hand reach your hair, lifting it up and gently braiding it into a small braid. As he finished your hair, he moved it to the side over your shoulder, leaving your back exposed.

"If you won't be comfortable with anything, tell me." He leaned to your ear, whispering, not wanting to startle you from your peaceful setting.

You murmured something back, too distracted by the comfort of it all. The water hugged and caressed your wounds, the chilliness of the cave and Qimir's hands slowly massaging your shoulders. You wanted to melt, and you were sure you were about to.

Qimir's fingers danced their way around your sore muscles, around your neck, and between your shoulder blades. You liked the way they made you feel relaxed and at peace, clearing your mind from intrusive thoughts. When he offered you his tub, you were sceptical at first and didn't want to listen to him. Now you were glad you did as for all the pain and soreness dissapered, melted into the water and Qimir's fingers.

You were so lost in his touch that you were unaware of the noises you began to make, Qimir's lips turning into a soft smile. He felt proud that he made you feel comfortable and safe after the rough day you went through. He secretly wanted to jump inside and enjoy the smells and hot water together, but he respected your privacy, acknowledging you weren't that familiar with each other yet.

He didn't mind. You were close to him, and that was all that mattered to him at that moment.

"Where did you learn to do this?" you asked out of nowhere, wanting to break the silence no matter how comforting it was. Qimir's voice felt way warmer.

"Friend of mine." he replied, not stopping his movements around your right shoulder blade. "She taught me a lot."

A small sting of jealousy ran through your heart as he mentioned the unknown being. You felt ridiculous. He was obviously very charming, and it would be stupid to think he didn't share himself with anyone over his life.

"She died a long time ago," he added, sensing the tension forming around you. If Qimir's hands didn't hold you in place, you'd sink yourself under the water.

"I'm sorry," you whispered, his hands now around your neck, sending shivers down your spine. You didn't hear him answer, and the urge to turn around and apologise again grew stronger with every passing second.

"You mentioned your arms hurting too," he spoke, changing the conversation. "Do you want me to take a look?" he stopped massaging your neck, but his hands never left your skin, letting them rest on your shoulder.

"If it won't bother you," you replied quietly, staring at your feet below the water.

"I wouldn't ask if it did," you heard him smile, his fingers moving in slow circles on your skin.

"You can jump in while you do it." You didn't know what magical force let you say your thoughts out loud, but it was too late. You felt redness overtake your face as the silence kept stretching.

"Do you want me to?" Qimir wanted to make sure he heard you right before stripping himself.

"I want you to fix my arms." You coughed, hoping he didn't marge into your head and read your thoughts as he pleased to do many times before.

You wanted to speak again as another silence took over, but Qimir's hands leaving your shoulders and the sound of his clothes dropping right next to yours shut you up.

At the moment you saw his bare ankles next to you, you dropped your gaze down, nervously playing with your hands below the water. You heard a splash when Qimir sinked into the water, the close proximity melting your thoughts away. You dared to look up at him, choking on the air.

His jawline and high cheekbones prominent in the light, his two small pigtails on the opposite side of his head exposing his forehead and sharp eyes. He was one of the most beautiful men you've ever seen and no matter how cliche it sounded in your head, you didn't dare to deny it.

His chest glittered as the droplets found his way around him, the water reaching to his hips. He was ethereal.

You notice a small smirk on his lips as he lets you brush your stare on him before reaching out for your arm underwater, his eyes never leaving yours. He could have dropped his gaze and look down. He would easily see through the water, but he didn't. Instead, he admired your face, his fingers dancing its way around your arm to find the tense muscles.

"What is your mask made of?" You genuinely wondered, wanting to ask since you saw it deactivate lightsabers. You watched him now concentrating on fixing your arm, his fingers moving in sharp but tender movements.

"Cortosis," his voice low and raspy, his presence intoxicating. He radiated warmth, beating the hot bath he prepared for you. "Like the one we used as younglings." he explained further, his hand reaching your bicep, making him move closer to you. If you'd extend your hand, you wouldn't be able to stretch it fully before meeting Qimir's chest. The proximity and soft touch drove you crazy.

"So it's just you and the Force," you added before he could finish his further explanation. Despite staring at his hands, you didn't miss the acknowledging look he gave you.

"And whatever you bring with you." he whispered, nodding his head, his eyes falling back to your arm. When he finished your right hand, he reached out for your left, but before he could do so, you hid both of your arms behind your back, looking up at him with amusement playing on your lips.

"And what do you bring there with you?" you wondered, your gaze dancing between his lips and his black eyes. His half lidded eyes made you switch position so you could press your legs together. He didn't miss it even tho he acted like he did.

"My partner, I hope." he tilted his head, trying to read your expression. Nodding, acknowledging his answer, you didn't move. You let your eyes drop to his chest, around his nipples, fown to his abdomen. And back up.

Nervously, you played with your fingers behind your back as the silence took its place again. But this time, it was different. The awkwardness vanished, and something else took over.

"Have you found one yet?" Your mind traced back to the person he mentioned a few minutes back, wondering if she was his partner and he lost her. Or maybe he never found one, forever wondering for someone to fill his soul.

"I think I may have." he replied, moving slowly towards you, the water hugging his torso. "But I'm not sure if the person found me."

He was right in front of you. You could swallow his breath. His deep, longing eyesz scanning yours, his lips partially opened. His hair loosened up, falling over his forehead.

"She did," you whispered back, letting his hand caress your cheek before meeting his lips with yours. The softness of his lips made your knees betray you, but his arms were there to catch you. Your hands moved from your back to rest against his chest, feeling his soft glow skin. Your fingers drew shapes around his scars, wanting to love and learn every single one. His arms wrapped around you tightly, bringing you even closer to him. Wanting to feel every inch of you.

Candles flickered around the cave, casting a soft, golden glow that danced with the shadows. The fragrance of the candles mingles with the warmth of the water, creating an atmosphere of serene tranquility.

You leaned back, enveloped by the soothing embrace of the water and Qimir's arms around you. His chest is firm and reassuring, his lips soft and sweet as you imagined clouds would feel. You felt his steady heartbeat, a reminder of their presence and yearning.

In that moment, all pain and worries melted away, replaced by a profound sense of peace and security. Qimir's arms were your sanctuary, always ready to catch you when you stumbled and to hold you when you needed it most.

The feeling was a blend of love and ecstasy, as if every touch and whispered word from Qimir's lips was a promise of unwavering yearning and affection. The chill in the air around you only enhanced the cozy, intimate warmth you shared, making this moment all the more precious.

You closed your eyes, surrendering to the blissful combination of the hot bath, the ambient candlelight, and the tender embrace of Qimir's lips. In his arms, you didn't find just comfort, but a profound, soulful connection that filled you with an enduring sense of peace and love.

[br0kenangel]

“𝒷𝒶𝒷𝓎 𝒶ℯℊℴ𝓃 𝓍 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒸𝒽 𝓇ℯ𝒶𝒹ℯ𝓇”

“𝒮ℯℯ𝒾𝓃ℊ 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝓎ℴ𝓊𝓃ℊ 𝓅𝓇𝒾𝓃𝒸ℯ 𝒻ℴ𝓇 𝓉𝒽ℯ 𝒻𝒾𝓇𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝒾𝓂ℯ”

The first time you saw him, the gardens were bathed in the soft golden light of late afternoon. You were gathering herbs for your potions, the fragrant leaves and flowers filling your basket. The quiet of the garden was interrupted by a rustling sound, and you looked up to see a tiny figure stumbling through the bushes. There he was, little Aegon, his silvery hair catching the sunlight like a halo. He had just started learning how to walk, his steps wobbly and uncertain. His tiny hands reached out to steady himself on the tall stalks of flowers as he made his way toward you. You sighed, a bit annoyed at the interruption. "Go away, little one," you muttered, waving your hand dismissively. "I'm busy." But the little prince was undeterred. He looked at you with wide, curious eyes, then tottered forward, his chubby legs working hard to close the distance. He tripped on a root and fell, but quickly pushed himself back up, determined to reach you. You huffed in exasperation and turned back to your herbs, pretending to ignore him. "Shoo, go find your nursemaid," you said, hoping he would lose interest and wander off. Instead, Aegon toddled right up to you and clung to your skirt with surprising strength. "Up!" he demanded, his voice a mix of frustration and determination. You looked down at him, your annoyance melting away as you saw the earnest look on his face. His violet eyes were bright with trust, and his small hands clung to your skirt as if he never wanted to let go. You couldn't help but smile. "Oh, all right," you said, bending down to scoop him up. "But just for a moment, mind you." As soon as you lifted him, Aegon wrapped his arms around your neck and buried his face in your shoulder, his giggles vibrating against your skin. His small body was warm and surprisingly comforting. "You're a stubborn little thing, aren't you?" you murmured, rubbing his back gently. He just laughed and nuzzled closer, making happy little sounds. You carried him over to a nearby tree and sat down, letting him settle in your lap. He looked up at you with a beaming smile, then pointed to a butterfly fluttering nearby. "Fly!" "Yes, a butterfly," you said, feeling a strange warmth in your heart. "It's very pretty, isn't it?" Aegon nodded, his eyes following the butterfly's every move. Then he looked back at you and patted your cheek with his small hand. "You p'etty." You couldn't help but laugh at that. "Flattery will get you everywhere, little prince." He giggled again, clearly delighted by your reaction. For a moment, you just sat there, holding him and enjoying the simple pleasure of his company. It was a small, unexpected moment of joy that made you realize how precious this little boy was.

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

[psychopomp-recital]

🔥Subtle Brigid Worship⚒️

Completely inspired by @khaire-traveler ‘s subtle worship series!

➤ Light candles in your home

- (bonus points if the scent matches her associations)

➤ Read poetry books and blogs

➤ Build lego sets

➤ Clean your house or space + keep up with repairs

➤ Have bonfires with your community

➤ Swim in lakes or rivers

➤ Write poetry or creative writing

➤ Keep a grief journal

➤ Visit farms/care for livestock

➤ Donate or volunteer at animal shelters

➤ Have a picnic at sunrise

➤ Make your house a home with decor you love

➤ Share a warm drink with her

➤ Make your phone wallpaper something associated with her/art of her

➤ Sit around a fire

➤ Take regenerative baths or showers

➤ Create jewelry or sculptures

➤ Wear clothes or jewelry that suit her energy

➤ Learn a home craft like knitting, crochet or embroidery

➤ Make and mend your clothes

➤ Hang a Brigid’s cross by your door or kitchen

➤ Bake or Cook and share the meal with others

➤ Simmer pots with associated herbs

➤ Volunteer with domestic violence or queer shelters

➤ Work towards and embrace self love

➤ Help mothers & new parents in your community

➤ Grow your own food

➤ Sing songs that make you happy outloud

➤ Show hospitality wherever you can

➤ Have confidence in yourself and your worth

➤ Take care of your body and mind

➤ Go to therapy

➤ Aide the grieving and the dying

➤ Volunteer at a children’s hospital

➤ Do small acts of kindness

➤ Have honeyed or cinnamon toast

➤ Tell folktales, especially to the next generation

➤ Share stories of ancestors, not just those who are blood related

➤ Light a match

➤ Keep a stuffed sheep, cow, ox or other livestock in your home

➤ Wear perfume that reminds your of her

➤ Research Irish history & culture / Gaeilge

➤ Keep artwork of her by your door or kitchen

➤ Keep iron around your space especially your kitchen

➤ Wear iron jewelry

➤ Learn to Blacksmith or Invent something

➤ Create a community either online or irl

➤ Take care of your hair

➤ Go to a cooking or baking class

➤ Take a pottery or quilting class

➤ Foster animals

➤ Befriend your neighbors

➤ Smile and embrace life

➤ Cry and embrace death/grief when it comes into your life (more then just physical death)

➤ Read books and educate yourself

➤ Keep first aide in your home

➤ Get CPR/AED/First Aid certifications

➤ Learn herbalism

➤ Go on walks outside, especially during spring

➤ Make a wish at a well

➤ Embrace your authentic self

➤ Be an ally of or attend LGBTQIA+ events

➤ Eat fruits like apples and blackberries

➤ Learn self defense

➤ Research your ancestors, not just those related by blood

➤ Play ttrpgs or larp

➤ Keep a journal or a commonplace notebook

➤ Support small business and artists

➤ Plant native yellow flowers around your house

➤ Wear shawls, especially when you’re sick

➤ Learn grounding techniques

➤ Washing your face

➤ Eating / Drinking dairy

➤ Create collages

➤ Paint your nails with associated colors or symbols

More to be added later!

[manachiichan]

To see the world that you are so proud of...

Synopsis: Growing up obediently following your empress' shadow, your horizon broaden the moment you met a pirate doning a strawhat who somehow ended up on your island.

Pairing: Monkey D. Luffy x Kuja!Reader, Platonic!Boa Hancock X Fem!Reader

Spoilers from the Amazon Lily and Marineford arcs. Reader is a pure sunshine who is both kind and naive. This is mostly focused on yours and Hancock's relationship.

|| One Piece Masterlist ||

|| Part 1 || Part 2 ||

"Rejoice.. From this day and so on, you will directly serve me alone...."

Growing up, all you ever did was listen and obey those who ranks stronger than you. And that person was no other than Boa Hancock, the Empress of your island.

When your mother died unexpectedly, she took you under her watchful eyes. Being only a child at the time, you were unaware of how dangerous your surroundings were. Surrounded by the jungle and waters filled with sea kings, you will never survive.

The women were all like walking on eggshells around you. Your mother was a fearsome warrior that boarded the Kuja Pirates' ship. She was well respected by her peers and because of that, the rest treated you like a delicated flower that deserved to be sheltered.

You were a child without a maternal protection and guidance.

But after being graced by her benelovence, you grew to adore the snake princess and bow to serve her with everything you have. Hancock treated you like how she would treat anyone below her, yet in your child like mind, she was the only one who didn't see you as fragile as glass.

And to repay that, you went and learned the ways of the women in the island.

"Snake Princess, please allow me to serve your every needs! I won't hesistate to do all of them!"

"Snake Princess, I brought you your tea. Just like how you like it..."

"Please leave quietly. The Snake Princess is currently occupied and cannot see an audience."

"My empress, you seems to be slightly fatigued, should I draw a herb bath to soothe your mind and cleanse your body?"

"I'll be on guard by the door if you ever request anything, Snake Princess. I'll be happy to aid you with all of my capabilities...."

You learned and mastered observation haki at a young age as you often went and learned everything that should and shouldn't do around the Pirate Empress. After all, you felt like you owe your life to her.

But that's also when you finally saw through the mask she often wore. She has a deep fear somewhere in her heart that she tried so hard to hide, the same fear that her sisters share with her.

You kept silent about it as you thought it wasn't your place to ask. But after that, you began to see her in a different light.

Boa Hancock is much more valiantly elegant than what you previously thought. And you admire her strong demeanor in hopes that one day, you'll be like her too..

As a Kuja warrior, you strived and hone your skills in hopes of pleasing your Empress even more. You worked harder to be a better version of yourself. You became the best hunter of your tribe while fully adapting to your own snake weapon.

Hancock rarely talk to you, however, she kept you often at her side, doing her bidding.

"What is with that smile on your face?"

"I'm happy, Snake Princess. To be able to prove my worth by serving you, it's the greatest honor..."

Most women would cower under her cold gaze, but you on the other hand, was brave enough to stare back with much admiration, carrying and obeying with a gentle smile on your face. Pure genuine, you didn't fawn over her like how the rest did, nor threw yourself under her feet as she walk pass by.

Everything you do was all voluntary that she didn't even have to use her charms to force you to obey.

Eventually, your obedience lead to Hancock trusting you completely. Becoming her right hand woman, whom she could trust Amazon Lily with. She know that you will never betray her with how much dedicated you are on serving her.

You were too kind. Whenever she looks out on the window of the castle, she would often see you helping out your fellow women with a huge smile on your face. Every requests thrown at your direction, you immediately agreed on, as if rejection is not on your vocabulary.

She knew by then, that she chosen the right person to trust on.

The first time you actually met a man, was when Hancock commanded you to stay back on the island as she sails away with her sisters and the elite warriors of the tribe.

"Snake Princess, why do I have stay here? I am confident in my abilities that I won't be considered as a hinder.."

You pleaded, carefully observing her reactions if ever you annoyed her with your words. To be near Hancock, means that you have to be careful not to anger her to avoid loosing her favor on you.

"You are not ready to sail on the Perfume Yuda yet. So use that strength on keeping this island safe until I return..."

Being often near the snake princess, gave you privilage to lead your fellow warriors whenever she and her sisters are not around. They listen to your instructions carefully and proceed to do their respective chores dedicatedly.

As you were given the task of protecting the island by Hancock herself, you took the initiative of scouting the jungle along side three other woman named Marguerite, Sweet Pea and Aphelandra.

"While we're here, should we perhaps hunt a beast for today's lunch?"

You asked the trio, hoping to bring a good feast for the warriors who scouted the other areas of the island, but before anyone could respond, you all notice smoke coming from the far side of the jungle. Wordlessly, you gave the women a commanding look before running off to the source with them following behind.

And that's how you met the strange man now called Luffy.

You found him beatened and unconcious with mushroom growing on his body. Not knowing his identity before hand, your pity for the injured had allowed him to enter the village.

Allowing Belladona and the rest of the women to tend his wounds, you and Marguerite provided on sewing new clothes identical to his previous tattered ones.

Marguerite embroidered floral patterns on the vest and you sewed a new pair of clean shorts.

Until the elder, Nyon revealed his identity of being a man.

"So this is what a man look like....?"

Unlike the rest of the women who all got defensive on his sudden outburst, you on the other hand could only continue to stare with curiosity.

Because you could clearly see his intentions. He was annoyed with how the rest wanted to pull his balls of gold, how feminine his clothes were and how tense he was when weapons pointed at his direction.

Yet you can see the desperation on his eyes. His desperation to leave the island, and return to his friends, atleast from what you heard him shout.

"Wait, stop...!"

You told the women to cease all actions but it was then, their arrows rained towards his cell, forcing himself to break out.

"He is not a threat!"

"(Name) all men who enters this island must be eliminated. That is the rules given by our ancestors that is upholded for centuries!"

Kikyo scolded you. Reminding you of where your loyalty lies. If your Empress ever finds out that a man entered the island under your supervision, you knew that you'll be the one paying for the consequences.

You feared to see the disappointment, Hancock would send you once she finds out. Hate to have suddenly betrayed her trust of getting fooled by a man whom you allowed to enter in the island. And you hate to disappoint her.

But the women are willing to help you out by pretending that this had never happened. Once you capture the man and kill him, this will all be a forgotten event. Boa Hancock will never know that a man soiled her land with his filt....right?

So with a conflicted thought, you went with the rest to pursue the strawhat wearing man.

Somehow, you found yourself being held hostaged by the same man. At first, you and the other Kuja warriors were all chasing after him through out the village, when all of sudden, he turned around to face you.

Looking through the crowd of women, his eyes landed on to your guarded ones, stretching his arm, he immediately wrapped them around you before running off.

He kidnapped you, atleast that what you thought as he made his way out to the village with you in his arms.

"I need that paper back..."

He was after the paper you found on his tattered clothes. You stared at him warily as your snake slithered from your shoulders to your arm, forming into your weapon. You hoped that you wouldn't be using it against him but you can't avoid taking that risk.

You stared at his impatient form, silently observing his every move. You can tell that he has no intentions of fighting you either.

"You mean this....? What does it do...?"

Curiosity over took your judgement as you pulled out the paper to his field of vision. Seeing the absolute relief on his face made you lower your guard a little. What was the importance of a small piece of paper with a name written on it?

"My friends and I got separated, I need this paper to see them again."

"Who...are you anyways...?"

"I'm Monkey D. Luffy. I'm a pirate..!"

He spoke with a boyish grin on his face that you couldn't help but reprocate. He kept his distance seeing how you weren't comfortable being near a man....yet. He spoke fondly of his crew.

Like how you often spoke about the Snake Princess.

"The Snake Princess rules this island, she's wary of outsiders like you, but once you see through the mask she often wore, you can see how caring she's really is...!"

"I see! You really like the boss of this place, huh..? She must be really nice then."

You didn't realized that you were talking rather eagerly like you knew him for years already until you hear his laughter. Feeling slightly embarrased that you lost your composure, you immediately went to defend yourself.

"D-don't get ahead of yourself, man! Just because I'm talking to you, doesn't mean I'll let you do what you want here... No men are allowed on this island!"

You were already getting attached to him, he doesn't seem to be a threat at all. You thought as you saved him from drowning after his attempt to make a raft.

And before you could even think about helping him escape, the defense warrior group finally found the two of you in which he decided to flee.

By the time, you caught up to him, you knew it was already too late. Hancock was already aware of his presence and had ordered for his capture after he crashed on her chambers when she was bathing.

"Where were you, (Name)?"

You couldn't face her, you could only stand behind her with her sister Marigold on your front.

"Forgive me, Snake Princess... I was out there trying to capture that man..."

Boa Hancock is a rather observative woman. She observes people who falls under her rules. She knows her worth and what she is capable of and use it for her advantage.

Imagine to her slight surprise, you weren't there to greet her return at the end of the red carpet. That was her first suspicion, you never failed to show up first whenever she returns to the Island after weeks on sea.

She got even more suspicious when every woman she came across to lied when she asked of your wherebouts. Their only replied was, you had to hunt down a troublesome monkey that involves the rest of the island's defense troupe.

So when this man appeared, she knew she has to demonstrate a taste of her power to all of the women on the island. You included. She is the Empress, and it is her duty to protect the women under her care. She ought to show an example of how truly vile men are.

You who were oblivious of how truly cruel the world is. Too kind and obedient for her liking yet she couldn't find the heart to tell you off. She wasn't blind to see the adoration on your face whenever she is nearby. Nor she was oblivious to how genuine your actions were. She can see the unwavering loyalty you shown for her.

However she wasn't expecting you to grow attached to Luffy.

She noticed how your behavior shifted to tense and discomfort seeing him fight in that arena.

"What is it, (Name)?"

"Nothing, my empress..."

She could applaud you keeping your emotions in check. However, she found herself staring at you in disbelief when your cool finally broke when Marguerite, Sweet Pea and Aphelandra step in, attempt to save Luffy.

"My apologies, but I was the one who brought him to the village. If anyone deserves to be punished, it should be me. Those three merely followed my orders."

"You know what happens to those who defy me, (Name). Why are you defending the guilty?"

Taking up the courage, you managed to look her directly in the eyes. Those cold and dull hues that holds deeper emotions within. With a deep breath, you gave her your usual smiles.

Your compassionate smile of purity.

"I was the one who allowed permission for him to enter the village, my empress. So I should be the one held accountable. Marguerite, Sweet Pea and Aphelandra did nothing wrong, so please allow me to take their punishment alone.

You pleaded them to be spared. Seeing how you are willing to take the risks of saving the girls including Luffy slightly wavered her resolved.

"....You disappointed me, (Name).."

But she is still the Empress, and she has to show her authority over the island. Knowing full well that her powers could not affect you in any way, she asked a few warriors to take you away. You who looked back at her with a dejected face.

The man wearing a strawhat look angry on your behalf. He fought bravely against her sisters, demanding to set you free as you were innocent from all of this.

"She did nothing wrong! She was only trying to save me!"

Hancock kept her composure as she watched the battle raged on. What was so special about this man that you were willingly to defend him.

You were just too kind that it slightly annoyed her. You should only reserve it to her and her people alone. Your kindness shouldn't be shown to filthy men who will only take advantage of you.

This was the first defiance you've ever done. Hancock gritted her teeth as memories flashed between her eyes, ransacking every single one, yet she didn't remember you showing any disobedience like this before.

Just when she was starting to treasure you.

Only when the battle was over, she finally understood. Luffy was kind in his own way. Is that why you defended him? Because you were aware that he was not like those men who once trespassed the island?

Luffy seems to know the secret she was so desperate of hiding, so does that means that you already know? What do you see in her now?

Only when she was finally alone in her room, was she began breaking down, silent tears fell down as she didn't want her sisters to hear. Having you by her side for years as her closest aide made her conflicted. She only kept you nearby was because of pity.

You losing your mother at such a young age. Your mother who was apart of her crew, died at sea because of her warrior pride to protect the rest. It was by guilt, your mother's death at her ship is what made her take you under her wing.

She watched you grow up into a formidable warrior serving her with nothing but pure genuine adoration. It was nothing like the lust thrown to her way by both genders whenever she was present.

It was a gaze of a child with innocent admiration. You look up to her as a person and not just someone with otherworldy beauty.

Which is why she didn't let you join her crew. Giving excuses that you weren't strong enough to travel the seas on her ship. She didn't want you to see how vicious and filthy this world truly is. Nor for people to take advantage of your kindness.

What will happen if you knew the truth? It was her selfishness that killed your mother. Her selfish orders is what caused your mother to loose her life. Will you still have the same look on your face if you ever find out her slave mark? Or are you already aware of it?

Knowing you for years, no. You would never look at her differently even after she told you her secret. But the truth? It was because of her that you grew up without your mother's tender love and care.

But even so, she gave in with her fears. Through out the years, even she tried hard to push you away with her cold atittude, you still managed to find a place in her heart.

You were patient with her. Serving her with a bright smile that herself couldn't help but grew fond of. You tolerate her bratty attitude and beauty even when she knew that didn't have any affect on you. Only you were the one who can see through her lies and stayed.

But Hancock is a selfish woman, she was drawn to your warmth that she decided to keep you close, Because she was selfish, she only wants to keep your kindness to herself.

Because being around you, she can be a regular person that people never fawn on. Not like a luxurious item that people wanted to have, but a person who has her own feelings and wants.

All she hope is that you would forgive her like how you always do.

© manachii 2024 ~ all rights reserved. please do not repost, copy, etc. any of the works I made.

[khaire-traveler]

🔮 Subtle Circe Worship 🪄

Grow your own herbs, especially those you plan to use in magical workings (kitchen related magic may be the most discreet for this)

Take a walk on a sunny day; bask in sunlight

Wear/collect rings or hoop jewelry

Have a candle that reminds you of her (no altar needed)

Keep a picture of her in your wallet

Wear jewelry that reminds you of her

Go for a swim in the ocean; wash your hands in salt water

Visit the beach or the bank of a body of water

Have a pig, dragon, stag, or snake stuffed animal

Have imagery of rings, magic, the beach/islands, winged serpents, various beasts (I'd say whatever animals come to mind with "beats"), or the sun around

Volunteer at an animal shelter

Support environmental preservation, animal sanctuary, or humanitarian organizations

Cook a warm meal for someone in need

Learn to trust your own judgement; trust your instincts

Drink an herbal tea, using the herbs with intention; cook using herbs with intention

Read the Greek Magical Papyri or The Odyssey (you can usually find a PDF; check the Internet Archive)

Bake cakes and pastries, especially with honey; give them to loved ones

Take time to meditate in the sunlight; do this in nature if able

Go outside of your comfort zone; try new things, and take risks

Dedicate time to learning about a new subject or topic

Go out of your way to meet new people or engage with a community

Listen to music that empowers you or that you feel represents you; dance to it!

Play a TTRPG; play D&D (yes, really)

Start a garden; tend to plants

Connect with local nymphs or nature spirits

Stand up for others; stand up for yourself

Learn about the history of witchcraft, especially that of ancient Greece (this ties into the GMP)

Take a self-care bath or shower, especially with herbs

Go camping; take time to appreciate nature

Ground yourself often; practice healthy coping skills; practice emotional regulation skills

Clean your space; keep your environment feeling comfortable, and make it your own

Think outside the box for solutions to problems

Be creative; engage in activities that help you express your creativity

Press flowers; keep dried flowers (preferably for use in later magical workings)

Sit by a fireplace; light a bonfire; allow yourself to focus on the heat and comfort of the flames

Learn non-obvious forms of divination; pyromancy, cartomancy, shufflomancy, carromancy, etc.

Make a list of your personal strengths and pride; focus on how strong and resilient you are; know that you have power, you have strength

Create a sigil or symbol that represents/invokes you and your personal power

-

This is my list of discreet ways to worship Circe. I may add more later on! For now, I hope this was helpful. Thank you, and take care! 🩷

Link to Subtle Worship Master list

[notjustjavierpena]

Ubi tu Gaius, ego Gaia: Chapter II

Series Masterpost | Main Masterpost | Support a disabled creator

A/N: I'm so sorry for the very long wait. I ended up separating the chapter into two parts because it ended up being 13k. Hope you can forgive me!

Chapter Summary: In which you get married to the General. 

Pairing: General Marcus Acacius x f!reader/you (no y/n)

Chapter warnings: +18, arranged marriage, historical sexism, probably historical inaccuracies, large age gap, religion in the form of Roman Gods, shitty parents, anxieties over wedding night

Word count: 5k

Link to this work on AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/57443332/chapters/151335016#workskin

Chapter II: A wonderful day for a wedding

Due to the warm night, it doesn’t surprise you when dawn brings the most beautiful sunrise all year. The landscape outside is bathed in gold and when you gently guide a lost bee out of your bedroom window, you feel the warmth of the sunshine prickle your skin.

You have a great deal to do before the carriage ride to the Acacius estate, so you hurry through breakfast - bread and cheese with herbs - to make sure there are enough hours in the morning for your bath, your grooming, and your dress preparations. 

You gently wash off the sweat and sleep from last night by rubbing slow circles down your arms, legs, and chest with a piece of soaked cloth. The excitement pools in your belly as you focus on the dream wedding belonging to the little girl in your heart happening today. The fact that it is arranged by your parents doesn’t diminish the fact that your tunic is beautiful and the festivities will be worthy of the Gods. You have no tears and concerns for Cassius left, you say to yourself, or at least, you’re not allowing yourself to have any left. 

“A perfect day for a wedding,” your mother says as she brings you more water for your bath instead of the maids, pouring the freshly hot water into the tub by your feet. Afterward, she moves to sit on a chair behind you to wash your hair. 

“Mother,” you say while she tilts your head forward, pouring water over the back of your neck, “I want jasmine flowers in the wedding crown, can we please have a maid pick some from the garden? Marcus— I mean, General Acacius will be impressed if I remember our conversation from yesterday.” 

The warm water feels soothing as it cascades down your shoulders, even more soothing is your mother’s fingers detangling your hair with practiced care. You spot her in the full-body mirror along the wall, her face sporting an affectionate smile, “Jasmine is his favorite? The General told you this? He must like you, my daughter.” 

“Mother, we barely know each other,” you let out a little laugh and turn your head back to look up at her. She grins down at you, smoothing her palm over your wet hair to squeeze out some excess water.

“Yet you already care what he thinks,” she points out with a slight hint of teasing. You splash a few drops of water in her direction and she acts outraged in only the way a mother can. The both of you laugh, the bubbling feeling warm in your chest until you also feel melancholic. The feeling that you should have had last night comes creeping up on you now.

“I’m gonna miss you and father,” you say softly and she wraps her arms around you from behind, not caring about getting her clothes wet if it means squeezing you enough to make you feel how much she loves you.

“I’ve been through this two times already. You know we still see both of your sisters. I am not sending you off to another country,” she soothes, rocking you from side to side and pecking the top of your head. You reach up to hold her wrist. 

“I know this but I’m the last bird leaving the nest,” you reply with eye contact in the mirror, corners of your mouth turning downward. You sigh quietly. 

“And father and I will finally be able to have some peace around here,” she tries to make you laugh again. When it doesn’t happen, the tone of her voice changes into something more serious, “I know everything feels safe and familiar here but you will grow to love your new life. Change is good.”

“I still feel like a child,” you lean back into her and stare down at the water that is growing colder, “You should have seen me trying to have a conversation with him yesterday. He is much older and more experienced than I am. I made a fool of myself not just once.”

“Listen to me, dearest,” she releases you from the confines of her arms and lifts your head to find your gaze in the mirror again, “I know that this is not a matter of love. I understand, my dear. This union is a great responsibility, but it can also be an even greater source of joy and strength for you. Your father and I have always wanted what’s best for you, even in situations where it might seem like it is only to our own advantage. Yet think about the possibilities this match will bring you; you will be the wife of a general. You can do anything.”

You nod with an understanding that is still marked by sorrow for the life you will leave behind, the dream of true love delivered by Cupid himself that will not be fulfilled now, “Yes, Mother.”

“And I will say this with confidence,” she continues, now with a gleam of pride in her eyes, “You are not a child, in fact, you have grown into a remarkable young woman. One that you can be very proud of. I know I am.”

A smile tugs at the corners of your mouth and eventually, you cannot hold back the breath of air that you have been holding. Your eyes are watery, your mouth grinning with teeth from being reassured so affectionately by your mother. You suppose that you can get through this day with those words playing on your mind, “You had that rehearsed, did you not?”

“Not at all, came straight from the heart,” she giggles and gets up from her seat. She walks to stand at your side, offering you her hand, “Now, let’s get you out of the tub and make you more beautiful than even Goddess Venus herself. Today is a celebration of everything you’ve become and everything you will achieve with your husband. However, remember that General Acacius is even more fortunate to have you and your heart by his side.”

“Thank you, Mother,” you say as she helps you to your feet, holding you steady as you step over the edge of the bathtub. 

She wraps a linen cloth around you, “I’ll send for the flowers right away. The tailor has already been with your tunic this morning, I’ve had the maids hang it in your room.” 

“Perfect,” you smile. You leave the bathroom while another ancilla - a maid - empties the tub, hangs the linen towel to dry, and mops excess water from the floor. 

As you make your way back to your bedroom, you notice your home is abuzz with servants doing all sorts of tasks to ensure a perfect day. They pass you with kind smiles and congratulations, carrying wine in jugs and baskets of fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread, and flowers for decorating. 

You think back to Marcus’ beautiful garden, wondering how it is taking shape to be the venue for your union. The red roses are sure to compliment your red veil, the marble the golden embroidery on your tunic too. 

But then, as you enter your room, you think about Cassius’ words from last night. In less than a day, you will belong to one of the most powerful families in all of the empire and despite this, it sounded like it did not ensure you the safety that your father had foreseen with this match. Quite the contrary, it seems like you are getting into something that’ll wash the pink and fluffy clouds away. 

However, the concerned thoughts last only a moment as your gaze falls on the beautiful tunic hanging on the wall, just out of the sun’s rays. You smile and sigh, brushing the woven fabric delicately with your hand. It is long and white, embroidered with squared patterns along the shoulder seams and down the short sleeves. You know that Marcus’ own attire will have the same stitching and color, signaling that the two of you are weaved together from now on. 

The veil hangs beside it and is as red as the fires that you have seen built for sacrifices to the Gods. Your mother has taught you enough during wedding preparations for you to know exactly what it is supposed to symbolize; you will be given to General Acacius today and you will belong to him in the same manner as the many gifts that have been given to the many Roman deities, like the coin you tossed in the fountain for Fortuna. 

After taking the tunic off the hook on the wall, you let the linen around your body fall to the floor and slip your wedding attire on. You sit down on the chair by your vanity and gaze at your reflection in the mirror, staring at the woman you have become in such a short time.

You adjust the neckline of the garment, smoothing out any crease that makes you seem less than perfect and then you grab your hairbrush to start detangling your hair. After having brushed your hair for a while and getting lost in the mindless task, a knock on your door distracts your thoughts. 

You quickly get up to hurriedly step behind the room divider in the corner, not wanting to reveal your look before it has gotten its final touches or in case the person seeking entry is your father. 

“Come in,” you say when you are hidden from view. 

However, it is your mother again who carries the wedding crown, which has now gotten beautiful jasmine flowers weaved into it. From the sound of the different footsteps, you deduce that she is followed by two servant girls who have come to help you with the remaining details of your outfit.

“I brought Lupa and Nidia to help you,” she chirps, hands the wedding crown to Lupa with the utmost care, and then gently sits down on the chair by the vanity. She waits as the girls join you behind the screen, “Quickly now, we have to be ready to go in half an hour.”

Nidia has gotten the veil from its spot on the wall, now draping it over the top of your head while Lupa secures it with the flower crown. You can smell the jasmine, feel the soft fabric of the red veil brush your bare arms, and suddenly, the weight of today begins to bear down on your shoulders. You swallow thickly as you look at yourself in the full-body mirror. This summer has changed you since you got the news of your arranged union, and suddenly, as you look at yourself at this moment, you are surprised to see that a bride stares back at you. 

“You look perfect,” Nidia says softly as if sensing your nervousness. She holds your gaze in the mirror and smiles a little when Lupa joins in with a happy, agreeing nod, the both of them adjusting the veil to cascade down your back gracefully. 

“Thank you,” you say gratefully and relax a bit more. At least how you look is going to be talked about the most but then again, will this enhance your future husband’s desire? What will happen when he gets you alone in his chambers? You shake the thought, not used to the idea of being perceived in such a fashion even if you tasted the idea yesterday, “Okay, I think I am ready.”

As you step out from behind the divider, your mother radiates maternal pride and clasps her hands together, “Oh, by Venus, you are radiant! I don’t know what your father was doing with all his worry.”

You try not to overthink that statement and act casual, very much aware that you have not seen him today. Instead, you ask, “Where is father?” 

“He has gone back and forth between our home and the General’s many times today. I suppose that he wants everything to be perfect for you and make you happy,” she keeps her voice high-pitched and cheerful but you can feel your gut telling you that she isn’t completely convinced either. She may have been making jest of you being the last of her daughters to marry but you know that your father sees you as more of a chess piece - the final move out of three - than his blood.

In your wedding attire, sparkling as Lupa gets the box of jewelry and Nadia adorns you in gold, you think again of the way your father had handled the negotiations of your marriage; how little concern he had shown for your thoughts on the matter, and, possibly without intending to, made it clear that this isn’t about love or even your happiness. It is about influence, power, and ascension to something right under the Gods.

“He’s always wanted things to be perfect for us,” you say with a forced smile, though your mother doesn’t seem to notice the strain on your face, “Ever since we were little, it was always about making sure we made the right connections, the right alliances.”

Your mother looks up at you, not quite as oblivious as she tries to convince you of. Her smile softens, “It’s just his way, my dear. He wants the best for you, for all of us, and you like the General! I can tell.”

The best for him, perhaps. You dare ask a question that can only exist between women who understand that you live in a world ruled by men. “Mother, do you think he would have arranged this if General Acacius had been… cruel?”

The silence that follows is thick, and in that moment, you realize that the answer may not be one you want to hear. You stare at her, brows furrowed as you wait for her to say something, but in the end, she avoids your gaze completely. 

“It is time to leave,” she says instead and turns to Lupa and Nidia who have gone completely quiet, “My daughter needs escorting to the carriage. We cannot keep my husband waiting so close to the time of the ceremony.”

You swallow thickly but do not protest, a heavy feeling in your stomach as you are led out of your home, taking in the details of the surroundings that you grew up in for what feels like the last time.

—

Upon arrival at Marcus' estate, you are greeted by who you assume will be your new maid. Ismene is her name, a woman not much older than yourself but with rougher hands, the kind that have known hard labor. She wears a plain tunic and her hair tied back in a braid, curtsying as you step out of the carriage. 

You hear your mother tell Lupa and Nidia to stay back in case it’ll insult Ismene that you have brought maids from your home but Ismene just smiles, her eyes flicking up at you as she bows to catch a glimpse of who she will be serving from now on. 

“My lady,” she greets after stretching to her full height again, a twinkle in her gaze and a gut feeling telling you that she has no ill will towards you, “Everything is ready for you. The General has requested that you go to the gardens immediately where the ceremony will take place shortly.” 

She leads you and your mother through the mansion that is as beautiful as you remember it from yesterday. Except this time, seemingly overnight, the home has been decorated to be fit for festivities later. Your mother walks beside you, her expression calm, but you know her enough by now to sense the tension beneath the surface. She glances around the estate with careful eyes, not having been here before since your father refused it, and is perhaps judging the wealth and power of the man you are about to marry. Maybe, she may even be worrying for you.

You must screen your face from the sun in the gardens, but you still cannot help but notice the red roses and the ivy snaking their way around the columns that surround the spot chosen for the ceremony. Their colors are striking and beautiful against the white marble, eliciting a gasp of awe from your mother. What you also cannot help but notice is the return of the flutter of excitement that stirs in your belly, one that feels out of place among your adult worries. Everything is even more gorgeous than you had imagined in your childhood daydreams. 

“It’s beautiful, truly. The Gods have indeed favored us,” your mother praises in a whisper just as the three of you come to a halt. Ismene has stopped in her tracks just out of sight from the guests who are here to witness the marriage, and she is deliberately quiet to give you and your mother this last brief moment of privacy before everything changes. 

Your mother reaches out to gently touch your arm. In response, you turn to her and are met with her warm and reassuring smile. She cups your face and kisses your forehead. 

“Remember that father and I raised you to be strong,” she tells you with tears welling up in her eyes. You can feel your heart beating harshly against your chest as you recognize both fear and excitement on her face, and you suppose that there’s grief in her following this; her last child leaving home will be the end of her being needed. 

“Te amo in aeternum, Mamma (I love you forever, Mom),” you only just manage to say as your throat feels tight and you can hear footsteps approaching. 

You know it is your father by the commanding pace of the steps, the way the feet strike the earth with determination. He rounds the corner with a small smile on his lips as he sees you. 

“My beautiful daughter,” he greets you and immediately holds his arm out for you to take. There’s urgency in his voice even if it is tender at the sight of you, “It is time.”

“Are you ready?” Your mother interrupts, earning a glance from her husband. His presence somehow looms larger after that question, as if he wants to scoff at the thought that you could ever say no. He shakes his arm with an impatient smile when you still have not taken his arm. Clearly, this is not a moment for lingering but a moment for you to fulfill your duty.

You swallow hard and then you turn to your father. With a nod, you place your arm through his, “I’m ready.”

“Then let us not keep the General waiting,” he smiles.

The wedding ceremony is swift and takes place underneath the blazing sun of Rome. Marcus Acacius stands at the altar, his tall and broad figure exuding strength and importance. You feel drawn to the way he looks as he watches you walk down the pathway between the guests, stoic and calm in an attire that matches yours. You feel reassured by him because of this strength, that if everything fails, he will catch you.

When you stop in front of him and your father nods in a way that feels transactional, you swear that you can see his eyes soften. The officiant drones on but you don’t hear a word, the thoughts of last night when you were alone in your bed flooding your mind and causing your heartbeat to drown out noise around you. You can still feel the warmth of your own touch between your legs and it’s so consuming of your attention that you suddenly hear someone clearing their throat. 

“We will now perform the joining of hands, dear,” the officiant repeats and you can see that Marcus is already holding out his palm for you to place your own in. Your face is hot, your cheeks prickling with embarrassment but you recover by not letting it faze you. Marcus smiles ever so gently when your hand takes his and a leather band is wrapped around them. You say your promise to him like you have practiced so many times in the mirror back in your room.

Where he is your Gaius, you will be Gaia. Mother nature. The first goddess. The one who made sense of chaos. 

“Ubi tu Gaius, ego Gaia.”

–

In the early evening, the festivities begin with a banquet that makes the ones your father has hosted in the past pale in comparison. There’s people and food and people eating the food everywhere. Goblets get continuously filled by servants and bread with oil, butter, and cheese gets restocked as soon as it might look like serving platters are emptying out. However, it is not envy that you see on your parents’ faces as they take in the long table that abounds in the season’s most beautiful flowers laid out in rich displays of colors, or the most expensive foods that are replenished before anyone can take notice of their shortages, but rather pride in your mother’s eyes and some sort of distasteful greed in your father’s.

It makes you think of Cassius again, the idea of his stomach growling as he makes his way home from laboring in the fields surrounding your village. He would hate this, you think to yourself, the sight of the uppermost elite of society stuffing their faces but not for nourishment.

You look down at your hands when you start to feel bad for thinking of another man while sitting right next to your new husband. Yet Marcus doesn’t seem to notice the way your shoulders slump. He smiles warmly at each congratulations that he receives while you sit at the end of the same long table and you’re surprised to see that it comes off as genuine each time. He graciously lifts his goblet of wine as thanks, nodding to the faces of men his own age who approach with offerings and gifts. You’ve seen them steal glances at you when they think others haven’t noticed. 

You wonder if Marcus has, if he feels triumphant or enraged by the lingering appreciative stares that you receive right before they go back to their wine. 

It is to be expected with how beautiful your mother has made you for this day, you say to yourself in your new state as an object of desire, but still, you are without much appetite from being stared at. It makes you think of your wedding night and the duty that lies within it. As a comfort, you reach for your goblet of wine frequently throughout the evening and completely ignore the delicious smell of roasted meats and the sight of shiny green grapes and berries that you have on your plate. Right now, they make you feel sick. 

Sensing your discomfort, Marcus holds his hand up to stop an approaching guest and turns his attention to you. His gaze follows the movement of your hand as you lift the goblet to your slightly-stained lips once more. Gently, he reaches out and covers your hand with his, taking the cup away from you.

“No more wine. I don’t want you to feel unwell on our night together,” he says simply and firmly but there’s affection in his command, a concern for your wellbeing. It’s the first time that you see a glimpse of the man you met yesterday. He makes you fold quickly, nod with embarrassment as you in return stare sheepishly at him while he sets down the goblet out of your reach. 

“Of course, my legatus,” you hurry to say, remembering how your mother had urged you to show respect by referring to his rank. You offer him a hesitant smile, “You’re right.”

“I know this is not easy for a maiden as young as you, and I must admit that it is all very overwhelming even for me,” he gives you a smile in return, allowing himself to show brief vulnerability to ease your mind, “But there’s no need to dull your senses, Carrissima.”

“It was not my intention to make you feel like I was unappreciative—“

“I did not think you were,” he interrupts before you can tear yourself down in an effort to humble yourself. He places a hand on yours underneath the table, “Are you pleased with the celebration? I never notice if others are enjoying the festivities. I admit I seek solitude more often than company in these situations.”

“It is beautiful, I’ve never seen anything like it,” you reply with a nod and realize that you find the conversation less terrifying now. You blame your ease on the amount of wine you have already consumed, “If you want reassurance, a woman can always tell if people are enjoying themselves.”

“And what is your verdict?” Marcus brushes his thumb over the back of your hand. You hide the shiver that goes up your spine, breathe deeply to steady your heart after it has skipped at least a few beats. He must know what his touch does to you after feeling it yesterday.

A burst of laughter from a table nearby catches both of your attention. A group of guests are engaged in lighthearted discussions, chatting cheerfully with each other and getting up when the musicians strike up a song made for dancing. 

You observe them for a moment before turning back to Marcus again, but before you can answer, a man approaches your table with what you assume is more congratulations. You make a mental note to be more present in this, to show your husband and his guests that you are in favor of the union. However, the man leans in close to Marcus, whispering something in his ear. 

You notice a subtle shift in Marcus’s demeanor; the previous warmth in his eyes momentarily replaces itself with a focused seriousness. He nods at the messenger, who quickly slips away into the crowd before you can even register what he looks like.

“Is everything all right?” You ask with curiosity and concern. 

“Yes, nothing to worry about. Just a small matter that needed my attention. I apologize for the interruption,” he assures you but hardly satisfies your curiosity. The seriousness vanishes completely in favor of softness as soon as he looks at you again, “Forgive me for forgetting but I must compliment the jasmine flowers in your wedding crown. They suit my bride perfectly.”

The sudden change in his tone makes your heart flutter, and you realize how intentional his words are, as if to draw you back into the moment with him. You reach up to feel the soft petals of the flowers with your fingertips. You smile genuinely at him, shy from the compliment, “It was already weaved this morning but I remembered you mentioning that jasmine is your favorite.”

He raises an eyebrow, “You remembered our conversation.”

“I wanted to show that I was attentive,” you reply, feeling a connection that wasn’t there just a moment before.

“You’ve certainly succeeded,” he replies with a pleased grin at being surprised by you.

The sunset has crept up on you while you have been in conversation with Marcus for a while, the plate in front of you suddenly having been emptied by you without much thought. You only register the darkness of the night when guests have started to get up from their seats to say goodbye and go home, and panic starts to rise in your throat when the crowd thins out enough for Marcus to send the rest home. 

You've known this night would come, and yet as you get up from your seat, standing right in the middle of all the many tables, it feels like it is brand new information that comes hurtling towards you and frightens you even further. 

With a lump in your throat, you watch the last few faces take their leave, observing how Marcus says goodbye to what you assume are the most important guests. 

When everything is quiet except for the servants’ footsteps, your parents approach you. Your mother is the first to talk, her eyes glistening with pride. 

“My dear, it’s been a wonderful celebration,” she says, gently squeezing you in an embrace. “We’re so happy for you.”

“Thank you, Mother. I’m so grateful you were here to share it with me,” you reply, accepting her embrace warmly and almost desperately due to your anxiety. You can feel her tense up when she realizes that you are hugging her to soothe yourself but she doesn’t say anything. 

Your father stands by quietly. He only nods approvingly when Marcus joins the three of you, “A splendid event. We’re confident our daughter is in good hands.”

Marcus bows his head respectfully, “You have my word that she is.”

Your father turns to you, his expression of importance softening just a bit, “Remember what we’ve taught you, my daughter. Honor and family are paramount.”

“I understand, Father,” you assure him, avoiding his eyes. The surprisingly cool interaction between father and daughter catches Marcus’ attention, and the step he takes closer to you is almost unnoticeable. You feel his arm accidentally brushing yours but you swear that there’s a sort of protectiveness in the featherlight touch even if it is unintentional. It makes exchanging farewells easier.

“Perhaps we should retire as well,” he suggests when your parents are out of sight, “Goddess Nox has already spread her veil across the sky for a while.”

"Yes, I suppose it is time,” you glance up at the stars above, feeling the cool night air against your skin. You wish he would ground you like before.

The both of you make your way to your shared chambers. The short walk feels longer than it should, the weight of the moment pressing down on you with each step. You glance at your husband as he walks beside you, his calm and steady demeanor sharply in contrast with the growing nervousness inside you. The walls of the corridor are lined with flickering torches, and they seem to stretch on endlessly. Though nothing lasts forever and eventually you come to a halt, the door in front of you leading you to your wedding night.

This is it.

.

.

If you would like to follow my writing then go follow @notjustjavierpena-fics and turn on notifications 💖❤️

[magickkate]

Hello, witchlings! Today we're diving into the topic of bath magic and how to incorporate this into a beginner's practice!

🧼 What is Bath Magic?: Bath magic, also known as ritual bathing, is a sacred practice that harnesses the cleansing, healing, and rejuvenating properties of water to enhance our magical workings. By infusing our baths with intention, herbs, crystals, and other magical ingredients, we create a sacred space for self-care, spiritual exploration, and manifestation. You can do bath rituals in line with the timing of the moon. Full moon baths are very common, but they can be done at any point!

🌿 Rituals for Bath Magic:

Cleansing Ritual: Begin by cleansing your physical body with a regular bath or shower to wash away any negativity or energetic debris. As you bathe, visualize the water purifying and cleansing your energy field, leaving you feeling refreshed and renewed.

Setting Intentions: Before stepping into the bath, take a moment to set your intentions for the ritual. What do you hope to achieve or manifest? Focus your thoughts and energy on your desired outcome, infusing it with clarity and purpose.

Herbal Infusions: Add herbs, flowers, and botanicals to your bath water to enhance its magical properties. Lavender promotes relaxation and tranquility, rose petals symbolize love and self-care, and chamomile soothes the spirit and calms the mind. Choose herbs that resonate with your intentions and sprinkle them into the water or create a sachet to hang from the faucet.

Crystals: Incorporate crystals into your bath ritual to amplify its energy and support your intentions. Place crystals such as clear quartz for clarity, rose quartz for self-love, or amethyst for spiritual connection in the water or around the edge of the tub. Allow their energy to infuse the water, enveloping you in a cocoon of healing and protection.

Visualization and Meditation: As you soak in the bath, close your eyes and visualize yourself surrounded by a radiant sphere of light. Envision your intentions manifesting as if they were already a reality, feeling gratitude and joy for their fulfillment. You can also practice meditation, deep breathing, or visualization techniques to deepen your connection to the divine and align with your higher self.

Sigils: Sigils enhance bath magic by imbuing intentions with energy. Create a sigil, charge it with intention, and incorporate it into the bath ritual. I normally do this by drawing the sigil in soap or lotion on myself or in the bath, drawing it on myself with a pen, or drawing it with my finger. Visualize its energy merging with the bathwater, allowing its power to amplify the magic. Release the sigil's energy into the universe, trusting in its ability to manifest desires. I do this by washing the soap or lotion, washing off the pen, or washing over where I marked the sigil with my finger. Bath rituals become more potent and transformative with sigils.

Affirmations: Repeat affirmations that resonate with your intentions as you bathe, allowing their positive vibrations to permeate your consciousness and uplift your spirit. You can create your own affirmations or choose ones that resonate with your goals and desires.

Closing the Ritual: When you feel ready, slowly emerge from the bath and pat yourself dry with a clean towel. Take a moment to express gratitude for the experience and release any lingering thoughts or emotions that no longer serve you.

Whether bathing for relaxation, purification, or spiritual growth, bath magic offers a simple yet powerful way to connect with the elements and manifest your intentions. So draw yourself a magical bath, sink into the soothing waters, and let the magic of bath magic wash over you!

[y2kbeautyandother2000sstuff]

.Bath and Body Works Flowering Herbs Body Splash

Left: early 2000s

Right: mid 1990s-2002

Left found on Ebay, user gwh-health-beauty-supplies

Right found on Ebay, user oppshopsales

[tiredwitchplant]

How to Use Herbs: Basil (Sweet Basil)

Hwello again! This time we shall be talking about how to use basil in different forms. If you want more information about basil, please click this link to get to my basil post: Basil Let's get started.

Alchemist Formulas:

*Remember always try to see one part as a teaspoon before going into other measurements. Doing a smaller amount first and then trial and error is better than making too much and a mess.

Mars:

two parts red sandalwood

one part honeysuckle flowers

one part basil

one part ginger oil

one part juniper oil

Health

one part frankincense (Sun; vitality)

one part basil (Mars; energy)

one part cinnamon (Mercury; nervous system)

one part bay oil (Sun; health)

one part sandalwood oil (Moon; Inner Self)

Oils

Basil Essential Oil:

Ingredients

12 ounces olive oil

2 ounces basil, 1 packed cup

Remove basil leaves from stems.

Place olive oil in a pint sized mason jar.

Carefully stuff basil into mason jar and close the lid.

Store on a sunny windowsill for 1 day.

Use a funnel to strain oil and a spoon to smash last bits of oil out of leaves and discard the leaves.

Transfer oil to a decorative jar and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Prosperity Oil:

1 part mint

1 part basil

1 part cinnamon

1 part pine

Carrier oil of your choice (olive oil, jojoba oil and etc)

Simply take a small mason jar and fill it a 1/4 of the way up with your chosen oil.

Add in your herbs while thinking of your intentions of prosperity and abundance and swirl the jar around clockwise.

Then add a little bit more of the oil before closing the lid.

Awakening Oil:

*This needs to crafted on a full moon

1/4 cup carrier oil

Mason jar

2 drops of basil oil

2 drops of thyme oil

Pour your carrier oil into the mason jar and then added the drops of thyme and basil

Swirl it gently in a clockwise direction so it will mix thoroughly. Say, "I awaken, I listen, I see. Enlightenment come to me. Awareness, mindfulness, clarity. Illumination come to me."

Anoint your temples on your head and pulse points with your oil before doing divination work.

Spells

Basil Growth Spell

Chop fresh basil into fine threads.

Warm honey gently over the stove. (A double boiler or bain-marie is recommended, as honey scorches easily.)

Add the basil to the honey and simmer.

Remove the basil-enhanced honey from the source of heat and murmur over it something like this: "Flies flocks to honey, Customers flock to me, Bears flock to honey, Business flocks to me, Ants flock to honey, Contracts flock to me."

Run a warm bath for yourself.

Rub the honey over your body, and then enter the bath.

Soak in the water for a while. When you emerge, before you drain the water, reserve some of the used bathwater.

Toss this on the grounds of your business.

Sex Worker’s Better Business Spell

Dress a lodestone , a magnetite rock, with essential oils of basil, bergamot, and lavender. (In theory, the lodestones' gender may be coordinated with the gender of the clientele you wish to draw.)

Sprinkle with magnetic sand and a pinch of ground cinnamon.

Carry or wear to charm up added business.

Exorcism Powder

Blend the following ingredients together and grind into a fine powder:

Dried basil

Frankincense

Rosemary

Rue

Yarrow

2. Blend this powder with arrowroot powder.

3. Sprinkle as needed.

Basil Cleansing Bath

Pour approximately one cup of boiling water over one heaped teaspoon of dried basil.

Allow this to stand until the water cools, creating a strong infusion.

Add this to your bath.

Financial Dreams (For Solutions)

Sprinkle either infused basil oil or essential oil of basil onto a lodestone, just before going to sleep.

Get into bed, turn out the lights and gently rub the scented lodestone in a sunwise direction on your forehead. (When you awake, your forehead will probably be dirty. Don’t panic; lodestone dust is lucky.)

Keep the lodestone near the bed, so that you can inhale the basil

Since two of these spells ask for lodestone, here is where you can get some and arrowroot powder. Lodestone , Arrowroot Powder

Kitchen Witch Recipe:

Wisdom Soup

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes, plus a little bit until it’s just right

1 cup red lentils

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can coconut milk

1 lime, sliced into thin wheels

Oil Options: Olive oil, toasted sesame oil

Sour Options: lemon juice, lime juice, rice vinegar

1 onion, diced

Sweet Options: Sugar, honey, agave

2 sprigs basil, de-stemmed and chopped

Salt Options: Soy sauce, sea salt, sweet miso (make a paste with miso and water before adding)

2 inches fresh ginger, minced

2 cups water

2 sprigs cilantro, de-stemmed and chopped

2 sprigs mint, de-stemmed and chopped

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

In a pot, place the lentils, coconut milk, and water, and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer.

Add the onion, garlic, ginger, cayenne.Stir. Do not cover.

Once the lentils are cooked and not firm (about 15–20 minutes), add one thing from the sour category, one from the sweet category, one from the salty, and some oil (add about a teaspoon of oil at a time). Taste. Repeat with a different item from each category.

Garnish with sliced wheels of lime and minced-up basil, mint, and cilantro.

I hope you enjoy these spells, recipes, and formulas and put them to good use. Use them wisely and bye byes~

Sources

[chinesehanfu]

【Historical Artifacts Reference】

Chinese Tang Dynasty Female Figurines in “乌蛮髻/Wū mán Hairstyle”

some will put lotus flowers in the middle of the hair

[Hanfu · 漢服]Chinese Tang Dynasty(618-907A.D) Traditional Clothing Hanfu & Hairstyle Based On Tang Dynasty Female Figurines

High Tang Period Women Attire and Hairstyle

————————

📸Recreation Work: @吃货娃娃

🔗Weibo:https://weibo.com/1868003212/MD7GFiYs0

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【Shangsi Festival/Double Third Festival/上巳節】

Double Third Festival or Shangsi Festival (traditional Chinese: 上巳節) is a Chinese festival celebrated on the third day of the third month of the Chinese calendar.

It is said that the origin of this festival comes from the Dinner Party at the Qushui River during the Zhou Dynasty (about 1100–221 BC). Others say its origins come from the ceremonial custom of getting rid of evils by bathing in the river. On this day, people would hold a sacrificing ceremony on a riverside to honor their ancestors, and then take a bath in the river with herbs to cleanse their bodies of filth. Following that, young men and women would then go for a spring outing in which many of these scenes were described in Shi Jing (The Book of Songs).

The Shangsi Festival activities have changed over the course of subsequent dynasties. The entertainment feast and praying for descendants along the riverside were added in the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 AD). It was after the Wei and Jin dynasties (220–420 AD) that the festival developed into the Double-Third (Shangsi) Festival that is fixed on the third day of the third lunar month.

In modern times, to observe this festival, people would go for an outing by the water, have picnics, and pluck orchids. It is also a day for invoking cleansing rituals to prevent disease and get rid of bad luck. The day is also traditionally considered to be a possible birthday of the Yellow Emperor.

The ancient traditions of Shangsi are mostly celebrated by several communities spread out among the provinces today, such as the ancient village of Xinye

The great calligrapher Wang Xizhi mentions this festival in his famous work Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Poems, written in regard to the Orchid Pavilion Gathering during the Six Dynasties era.

The Han ethnic people in some places also have special customs on March 3rd. For example, Hunan and other places have the tradition of "March 3rd, boiled eggs with ground (shepherd's) purse", while Anhui and other places have the tradition of eating Baba( a kind of bread, with meat):

[celestialtarot11]

Messages from mother earth 🪽🌲

Hey ya’ll!! Back with another post ☺️💗 this one is super interesting and has a lot of endearing messages for ya’ll. I hope you guys enjoy and feel free to comment, like and reblog 🪽✨

• Pile 1: Mother Earth wants to bring you freedom through liberation 🌙✨ releasing through crying, journaling, and letting your body rest is the best way to go through this process. It’s important to give yourself the choice to let go & find deep healing through this. Being around animals is a great way to heal yourself, and builds empathy with the world. Go outside for walks, especially big open spaces. You need to allow yourself to roam freely, emotionally and physically. Crying it out has great benefits and releases hormones so you might feel so much better after, and getting sleep is so important for this group. Find a coffee shop & sit, observe and find stillness. Realize you are part of the community, even if no one knows you. Somehow, you drinking or eating amongst others is not so bad ☕️ you’ll find that you’re handling it well, and its peaceful.

• Pile 2: Take a warm bath with essential oils (if you’re allergic pls do not do this 🤡) or with herbs. Take your time decorating your space, set the mood. Light those candles, play some music, and get into it. Mother nature wants you to connect to your sensuality, divulge in all your senses to create some movement in your energy field. Slowing down with yourself may be the best thing you do all week, so if you have been busy, please slow down. Mother nature has gifts for you too, so if you find people wanting to shower you in compliments, buying you flowers or wanting to hang out, just know thats mother natures way of saying you’re remembered. Buy yourself flowers if no one will, mother nature says having plants in your space will feed you energy 🌲✨ (if ya’ll want a big tree in your room idk about that one) but anyway, slow down & have fun!

• Pile 3: Dress warm mother nature says, if you’re not wearing your scarf or hat please do. Its easy for you to get sick and have digestive issues during the winter. Depending on where you’re at in the world this won’t resonate for all of you. Drink warm stuff and eat soup, soup is for the soul. Nourishment is your theme this month, through food, supplements and body care ☕️✨ manifesting before drinking tea or coffee will help you greatly. Just whisper what you want, drink your coffee/tea, and believe in the magic around you. It will find you. It knows you already. Mother nature wants to shower you in patience, patience is the softest form of love after all. If things have been quiet or slow, this is why. You deserve peace and gentleness. Your heart is big, so if someone is wanting you to be nonchalant, it wont work. You require more, because you can provide it, and that’s valid. Know your worth pile 3’s 🤍

This was so cute and fun to do! Such lovely messages for ya’ll 🤗 I hope this resonated and have a lovely day/night ya’ll!

Book a reading with me here 🤍

[kurov1864]

Scents of Babyls teachers + Opera (pt.2)

Suzy: Warm honey milk, wet soil, green tea, apple crisps. Sooo I may be exaggerating quite a bit, but Suzy seems like a really homey person yk?? Like she's really bubbly and sweet but in the grandma down the street that cares for you just like her own grandchildren way. She would definitely smell faintly of flowers, and that would result in hints of jasmine and lavender, creating this calming and soothing aura around her. Also herbs and spices that lean into the warmer side, so honeysuckle, cloves, vanilla bean, thyme, sage and nutmeg, basically those spices that would taste real good when mixed up in milk. But there would also be some lighter notes, like citrus and mint, to add some energy and zest into her fragrance.

Buer: Clean linen, antiseptic, peppermint, herbal tea. I would think that despite his very stoic exterior, he would have this very fresh scent, almost piercing in a way. It's very invigorating, yet sharp. Maybe it's the scent of all that rubbing alcohol, or maybe it's his eucalyptus shampoo. Whatever it is, it's crisp and refreshing, almost overwhelmingly so.

Orias: Ocean breeze, chocolate, wisteria, lavender. Orias... is quite the two-faced guy. Mysterious and charismatic during the day, an anti-social recluse at night. Also I have no idea what I'm doing I just picked out what feels right?? He definitely has a sort of like clear/light scent, probably more on the refreshing side so I chose ocean breeze. But at the same time purple so like,,, lavender and wisteria. Yes. I am so so so sorry to all Orias lovers.

Monomoki: Moonlight perfume, subtle sugary shampoo, hair spray, sheer lavender. Listen. You CANNOT convince me that her hair just naturally stays down perfectly all the damn time. If she has hair spray, there is most definitely a smell, but that doesn't mean it smells bad. Just gives her scent a more,,, artificial/chemical aspect to it. Moonlight perfume (from Bath and Body works specifically) because she has this light floral scent, but not in the bright way?? Idk if that makes sense but I would say it's like walking through a flower garden at night, when the moon is high in the sky and casting this white, almost blueish glow over the white jasmines, star roses and lavenders. So it's flowery yes, but barely detectable.

[keter-kan]

I'm back 😈

Here's chapter one! The prologue has been heavily edited, up to chapter five lightly edited. So please be nice with all the grammatical errors if you find them! (Also feel free to point them out; I've obviously missed them as of this far lol, much appreciated!) Thinking of maybe doing a character post regarding the main characters you meet here, Oryn and May.

tw: mentions of death and funerals/burial, grief, blood

•

•

•

Our dearest Oryn,

Our faith is strong. Knowing it’s unorthodox means nothing; our souls don’t fear the plaguing nags of Chaos any longer. You can’t harbor any doubts as to where we will go once our souls leave our bodies: know they will all find their homes with the Gods. You needn’t waste your breath praying for us.

Knowing you, this cabin will soon find itself empty. The home we built together will be barren. It’s okay—you can go. We trust you. But remember who you are. Remember who we raised you to be. Please, for the love of all that is good and holy, remember what we taught you. You’re too smart for the world, so be prepared for the way they’ll treat you. It won’t be kind. But don’t let that discourage you. Know that here, in the forest, there is always our home waiting for you to return. Let it be your haven.

There are no others like you. You know what the world does to the things it’s never seen. Don’t go looking for answers in places where none will be found, even when it all becomes too enticing. That lure, that pull at your soul, it’s Natural Chaos slowly wrapping you in its snare. Don’t let it.

You’ve been loved, and in turn loved us. If you’re going to take anything into the world with you, let it be that.

Maureen, Elisa, Starla

 

Ch. 1

It seemed like mere moments, yet the two of them sat there for hours. As the sun bathed the sky in its hues of oranges and reds and purples and pinks, they sat in front of the three fresh graves in silence. Oryn turned the unlit torch over in their hands. The forest wasn’t mourning; it was empty. The life that the three of them had built here didn’t stop with Oryn or what they gave May; they kept the forest here full of purpose. Without them, it was like every living being knew that Oryn wouldn’t stay, so they didn’t need to, either. Once they left, they’d have nothing to protect anymore.

May wanted to give Oryn all the time they needed but didn’t know how time worked for them. She didn’t know how time worked for any of them; everything she seemed to learn about the three women they were about to bury only unearthed more questions that she never had the nerve to ask.

As the sun made its final dip over the horizon, Oryn stood, lighting the torch. May didn’t have the chance to stand before they dropped it in the first grave—Maureen’s.

The flames roared to life, like they knew they were releasing a soul to the Waters and Winds. Lighting two more torches, Elisa and Starla joined her.

May shuffled where she stood, clearing her throat. “Did they want us to perform any… rites? Or say any prayers?”

Oryn took their time to respond, making sure May understood their conviction. As a solitary tear ran down their cheek, they barked, “No.”

“You need time,” May nodded.

“No,” Oryn said. “Let them burn and fill in the graves. Then, we go.”

They stood their long after dusk, letting the flames turn to ash before filling the graves they sat in. Amongst the flowers and herbs and fruit trees would be three women who defiled every god in the name of building a home.

The silence surrounding them wasn’t one that bode dread; it was like the subtle breath of your lover lying next to you as you slept. The forest was letting them sleep in peace.

As May untied her horse from the post near the hut that was both Oryn’s home and prison, she could hear the wood sigh with relief.

They took their time leaving the forest, knowing they wouldn’t be back any time soon. The footpaths seemed to bleed into the plant life surrounding them, slowly rotting the roots and bushes into dust. It was a slow decay, the trees slowly dropping their leaves and petrifying within the few hours of travel it took for them to reach the forests’ edge.

“You should know,” Oryn said, clearing their throat as the steed took its’ final step from the forest into the field, “I don’t sleep well.”

As the crackle of the final trees solidifying rang behind them, May turned over her shoulder. “And by that you mean?”

“I talk sometimes,” they started, “and other times I’ve broken a few things.”

“In your sleep?” May asked, Oryn nodding a bit. “Should be fine. You’ll be on the other end of the manor so I’m sure it’ll be no bother. And there’s not much in the room to break, anyway. I’ll let the guards know not to worry if they hear you mumbling.”

“Guards?”

“Just a few,” May started. “They patrol the manor at night. Since I started commanding the New Guard…” she trailed off, her jaw tightening. “It’s just better to be safe.”

Oryn nodded, taking the two flasks from the small bag they carried. “We should drink these before we make it into town,” they said, reaching their worn hand over May’s shoulder and handing her one.

May slowed their horse, coming to a stop on the path in the lush field. Here, all the living things were normal, singing and chirping and fleeting from one patch of grass to another. She took the flask, holding it up to the moon to see the cloudy brown liquid inside. Taking a deep breath, she smelt something that took her back to the puddles of blood staining the manor’s floor.

Her hands started to shake, the brass ring she wore clinking against the flask. “How many times can someone take this?” she struggled, her throat and tongue contorting as each word barely made it from her mouth.

Oryn sighed, running a hand through their braids. “I know,” they said, downing their own concoction and gagging on the aftertaste. “It’s safe. It won’t break what you’ve built here.”

May sat up straighter, her free hand tightening around the reigns. “You know?”

“I know they gave this to you before,” Oryn stated, “and I know it worked. Drink it again and it’ll work now, too.”

May hesitated.

“I’m Oryn,” they started, their voice flowing freely and with a quality anyone would strain to hear. They starting listing prices for goods they didn’t know anything about, naming duchy’s they didn’t know existed and comparing them to men they’ve never heard of.

May wasn’t concerned if it would work. The hair stood on the back of her neck as the thoughts of the broken bottle and pounding feet ran through her mind; the gold sitting in the cove dug underneath the stairs in the manor by her grandfather. There were things worth killing over.

She put the flask to her lips, letting the taste of tar slide down the back of her throat.

“Good!” Oryn chuckled, a low hum droning in May’s ear. She gagged on the taste and dropped the flask, Oryn reaching around her to tug the reigns. “It’s sealed now. But you know that already.”

-

The cracking of wood rendering itself to splinters rang down the hall, sending another shiver down Alec’s spine. He turned to his lieutenant, looking up at him the way small boys do.

“Dutchess said not to worry,” he started, a yawn creeping from the back of his throat. “Besides,” he sighed, “we have to stay alert for real threats.”

Glass shattered, followed by a metallic grating that could only be a nail ripping itself across the stone walls. A deep hum started creeping its way up the base of Alec’s neck.

“But, sir,” he said, his brows furrowing. “Somethings not right.”

His lieutenant rubbed his temples before conceding, nodding at Alec and starting down the hall towards Oryn’s bedchambers. Alec followed in his wake, his falchion gripped the way he was taught.

Reaching the door, Alec stepped forward when he was gestured to and slowly grabbed the knob. The soft click as he slowly started to turn the handle made a bead of sweat start dripping down his back, the low drone of humming building pressure in the back of his skull. But, after a point, the handle wouldn’t budge.

“Locked,” he mumbled to himself, turning back to his superior. “We shou—”

Alec was flung back down the hall, the shreds of door shielding his front half from whatever came barreling down onto his Lieutenant. He couldn’t see it, but Alec heard the snapping and creaking of flesh tearing from bone mixed with the screams and pleas of his superior, which were cut short by a quick pop of his head. His gray brain matter hit the wood Alec was shrouding behind.

There were footsteps hitting the ground immediately heard down the hall, quickly running to the source of the commotion. As Alec trembled and tried to remember how to breathe, another man’s hand was yanking him up from the ground and pulling him back down the hall.

The beast was of no shape that any of them had ever seen. In a matter of moments, more guards were thrown back against the walls, the demon’s shrieking echoing off the stone. If anyone in the manor happened to still be asleep, they weren’t now.

As one guard after another went with spear after falchion, their meaningless cuts and stabs were rendered useless. As the thick, opaque blood started seeping from the gashes, the skin would mend itself, transforming itself into something new.

The hulking mass of meat and bone would grind, creak, and snap as its limbs changed, its agonizing cries of pain accompanying the transformations. The skin would contort itself, stretching and thinning to contain everything within.

May came barreling from her quarters, untied robes messily hanging over her old nightwear, sword brandished and glowing in the dim light. With a look of determination on her face—the one her men always looked to—she barked out an order and shouted the command calling the bulk of the guard to her back. As the echo of May’s voice started bouncing off the cold walls, a rush of wind flew through an open parapet, the torches amongst the walls hissing into darkness. The soft sigh of relief amongst the darkness turned into a quiet sobbing.

“I’ve…” there was a soft shuffling of skin on stone, a hiccup of a cry emanating down the hall.

[erebusbabylon]

Threads of Fate Chapters 9 and 10

Find chapters 7 and 8 HERE

Notes: No warnings for either chapters.

CHAPTERS 9 AND 10

Chapter Nine: A Dance of Souls

The next morning the sun shone brightly over Eregion, as you immersed yourself in the vibrant garden, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors and the fragrant aroma of herbs. With Miroden by your side, you eagerly studied the various plants, their leaves glistening in the sunlight.

“Remember, each plant has its own story.” Miroden said, gently brushing his fingers over a cluster of delicate, yellow flowers. “Understanding their properties is as much about listening as it is about studying.”

You nodded, jotting down notes in your leather bound journal. “This one—what’s it called?” You asked, pointing to a tall, slender plant with bright blue blossoms.

“That is Lúmindë.” He replied, a smile on his face. “It’s known for its calming effects and is often used in teas for relaxation.”

“I can’t wait to try it!” You said, your eyes sparkling. “There’s so much to learn!”

After a few hours of tending to the garden, Miroden wiped his brow and stretched. “You’ve worked hard today. How about we take a break and grab some lunch at the tavern?”

Your stomach growled in agreement, and you smiled. “That sounds perfect!”

As you made your way through the village, the sounds of laughter and conversation filled the air. The sun bathed everything in a warm glow.

“Eregion has a way of enchanting newcomers.” Miroden said, glancing at you. “I sense you’re feeling the effects of its charm.”

“Definitely.” You replied. “It's so beautiful and peaceful. It really is such a special place. I feel honored having been invited in so warmly.”

Just as you approached the tavern, you caught sight of a figure in the distance. It was Celebrimbor, standing with a group of elves, his wavy golden hair catching the light and his presence commanding attention. You were not sure why but your heart raced at the sight of him.

“Ah, there’s Lord Celebrimbor! Miroden said, noticing your sudden stillness. “Would you like me to introduce you now?”

Before you could respond, Miroden stepped forward, gesturing for you to follow. As you approached, Celebrimbor turned, and your eyes met. In that instant, the very essence of your being seemed to vibrate. Holding his gaze, your body began to burn with an indescribable ache.

“Lord Celebrimbor.” Miroden said, bowing slightly. “I’d like to introduce you to my new apprentice.”

“W...Welcome.” Celebrimbor said, his voice shaking slightly.

You both stood transfixed, gazing at one another as if you were beholding a ghost. As the dazed silence between you lingered, Miroden, noticing the uncomfortable tension, spoke again, attempting to reignite the conversation. "She just arrived yesterday. She's settling in well."

Finally, Celebrimbor cleared his throat and spoke. “I’ve heard much about you. It's a pleasure to finally meet the future queen of Lindon. Eregion is fortunate to have you among us.” He smiled meekly.

“Thank you, my lord.” You stammered, your heart pounding. The intensity of his gaze captivated you, making it difficult to think straight.

“Please, call me Celebrimbor.” he said, stepping closer. “Have you been enjoying your studies?”

“Yes, very much.” You replied, your voice barely above a whisper. The energy between you crackled, sending a shiver down your spine. “Miroden has been an excellent teacher.”

“Ah, Miroden is indeed wise.” Celebrimbor replied, his smile becoming more confident. “I hope you are finding inspiration in our land.”

“I am.” You said, feeling warmth flush your cheeks. “Every moment here feels like a gift.”

The conversation continued to flow effortlessly, punctuated by laughter and fleeting, nervous glances. Miroden observed with a knowing smile, sensing the chemistry igniting between you both. He gently cleared his throat, breaking the spell. “Well, I would love to continue this conversation, but I will leave you both to it. I am in need of a hearty lunch. I will see you inside the tavern." His eyes were twinkling with amusement.

"Right, yes, I will be right in!" You said smiling.

After Miroden took his leave, Celebrimbor leaned closer, his eyes glimmering with curiosity. “There’s something so familiar about you.” He said, his voice low and earnest. “I can’t quite put it into words, but I feel we have met before.”

You blushed so hard you became dizzy. Your heart raced at his admission, and you struggled to find your voice.

“I feel the same.” You whispered, the truth spilling out before you could hold it back. The intensity of the moment enveloped you both, and the world around you faded into a distant hum. Your connection pulsed like a heartbeat, leaving you nearly breathless.

Suddenly, like a tide rushing in, the moment was swept away by the loud laughter of children nearby, reminding you of the life that continued beyond this moment.

As reality flooded back in, you stepped back slightly, breathless. “I should join Miroden for lunch.” You said, though your heart was screaming otherwise.

“Of course.” Celebrimbor replied, his gaze lingering on you. “I look forward to our next encounter.”

He gave a final smile that sent your heart fluttering, you turned to leave, your mind racing. As you walked toward the tavern, you felt the weight of your connection pressing upon you—a force that would not easily be forgotten.

Later, in the cozy atmosphere of the tavern, as you sat across from Miroden, your thoughts drifted back to Celebrimbor. What had just happened? That electric spark, that undeniable connection—you couldn’t shake the feeling that your life was shifting in ways you had never anticipated. The thought both thrilled and terrified you.

Chapter Ten: Visions from Eru

That night, the moon hung low, and the clouds were heavy and gray. It would rain before the night's end. As you settled into your chamber, the events of the day played through your mind like a vivid tapestry. Celebrimbor’s voice echoed in your ears, his warm gaze imprinting itself onto your thoughts. Sleep came swiftly, but it was a sleep filled with visions that would haunt you.

Your mind created the most vivid dream you'd ever had. You found yourself in a lush glade, the air thick with the scent of blooming Lúmindë. The vibrant colors around you pulsed with life, and in the center of the glade stood Celebrimbor, bathed in ethereal light. His golden hair flowed like sunlight, and his eyes sparkled like stars that held the secrets of the universe.

“Come to me.” He beckoned, his voice a melodic whisper that sent shivers down your spine. The moment you stepped closer, the world around you shifted, swirling into a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds. You felt a magnetic pull, drawing you to him.

As your body was pulled toward him, you felt hot flames licking at your back. The glade burst into flames behind you just as you reached Celebrimbor. "It is written by Eru." He whispered.

Then suddenly the ground beneath your feet split open, and you were in a free fall. Your body was falling further and further into the darkness, when at last a hand reached out and grabbed you. When you looked to see who had saved you, your gaze met Gil-galad's.

But then, just as quickly, the scene shifted. Shadows crept in, darkening your vision. You could hear Gil-galad calling to you, but you could not see him. You began screaming out for him, panic engulfing you. "I'm right here." A calm voice called from behind you. You spun around and saw Celebrimbor standing behind you. "I've always been right here."

With a jolt, you awoke, heart racing and breathless, the remnants of the dream clinging to you like smoke. The room was still, but a storm raged outside your window. The sound of thunder filled your chamber. You sat up in bed, shaking and sweating.

“It was just a dream,” you chanted repletely to yourself, but the words felt hollow. The connections you had felt with both Celebrimbor and Gil-galad lingered like a sweet ache in your heart.

Rising from the bed, you paced the room, trying to shake off the lingering feelings. You poured yourself a glass of water, the cool liquid a temporary relief against the heat of your racing heart. Yet, no matter how much you tried to distract yourself, the images of Celebrimbor and Gil-galad remained burned into your mind.

Sighing, you returned to bed, pulling the blankets around you like a shield. Sleep felt elusive, a distant shore you could no longer reach. As you lay there, staring at the ceiling, anxiety began to swallow you. Hot tears formed at the corners of your eyes. Your breath came in quick, shallow gasps. So many changes in your life, so quickly had finally caught up to you.

The last two weeks had been a whirlwind. You got engaged, had the stress of royal duties and expectations thrust upon you, only to then leave your home, and life in Lindon to pursue your passion. You were in a new home, making new friends and learning new things. All without your anchor and protector, Gil-galad.

With a resolve slowly forming in your heart, you whispered into the quiet darkness, “I will be okay.” The words hung in the air, a promise to yourself.

[herbz4spellz]

Witchy self-care🤍🧿🫙🪴

🌞In the first pic i have a ritual bath prepped for myself, i’m still in college so stacked up works stresses me out, and i tend to forget to de-compress, so a ritual bath helps a lot for me, help me remind myself who i am and what my goals are. (And of course as a nature/herbal witch who’s main work surrounds herbs, imma share what i used)

In a pot, boil:

chamomile flowers

cinnamon sticks

rosemary

star anise

basil

orange slices

i let it cool before i strain it straight into my bathtub 🛁 (also i forgot to add that i put epsom salt in my bath too, with intention candles lit beside)

🌞 In the second pic, i have a jar of rosemary and a jar of salt, a homemade sage stick, (dried dill and dried lemon slice) and an inscense.

i make it a weekly routine cleaning outside my apartment, sweeping fallen leaves away my doorstep.

Love love LOVE smoke cleansing and sound cleasing at the same time (peek the cute speaker i bough from Amazon for $15 lol). It helps me have a lil me time, waving the inscense stick around while letting my body move to whatever music i’m playing that day.

That’s all! always dedicate time to yourself before dedicating time into your work!