#bitter applewood

[dragonlordazuroth]

Summer Orchard and Bitter Applewood had three kids: Bright Mac, Apple Brown Betty, and Orange Pippin (Uncle Orange). (His name is Orange Pippin bc there's an apple called Cox's Orange Pippin)

More Apple Family Redesigns

The first image is of Applejack's parents, Bright Mac and Pear Butter. So far, I think I'm just gonna keep their story the same as it is in the show. Also fun fact: Pear Butter's grandmother was a pegasus, so she has some pegasi traits that get passed down to Apple Bloom.

The second image is of Granny Smith and her husband when they were young, as well as old Granny Smith. I think their names in my au are gonna be Bitter Applewood (left) and Summer Orchard (right). They had an unhappy marriage where neither one really respected the other and they were always bickering about who was in charge of the farm or the kids, on top of other things. They divorced long before Bright Mac began courting Pear Butter. Summer Orchard stayed at Sweet Apple Acres with the kids while Bitter Applewood moved into Ponyville, staying nearby as he still wanted to spend time with his kids. However, his relationship with Summer continued to strain, and his own children began to grow distant from him, until one day, Applewood ran off to Phillydelphia with another stallion and was never heard from again. He died without ever meeting his grandchildren.

While both Summer and Applewood mistreated each other, Bitter Applewood was inarguably a shitty person. He was controlling and selfish, and the only reason he and Summer ever made their relationship work to begin with was because Summer Orchard was stubborn enough to be able to butt heads with him and get away with it. (It may have also helped that Summer was very strong)

Still don't know who their other kids are yet. I'll figure it out.

[fitzs-trained-monkey]

Merry Christmas, Darling

Word Count: 1,200 (Tiny for me, but I haven't written in almost a year so forgive me.)

Summary: Ominis is going to miss you over the holidays. || Ominis Gaunt x reader|| Hurt but with plenty of comfort.

Warnings: This is as fluffy as a good sweater.

In the eyes of Ominis Gaunt, Christmas was a complicated thing. He loved it. Truly. Though, he'd never actually had one until he was eleven years old - when Anne and Sebastian Sallow invited him to their uncle's cottage in Feldcroft. They asked him to be there, they told him all these stories about how muggles celebrate the holiday, and their modest Christmas dinner was the best thing he'd ever tasted. The whole house felt so warm.

And... 

They gave him gifts. 

No one had ever done that. 

He hadn't had anything for them that first time, but they told him that was alright. Of course, he had remedied his ignorance every year afterward and for three more blissful years, everything was perfect. 

Until fifth year, when Ominis' only Christmas gift was comforting Anne through her nightmares – frightful visions of a goblin disemboweling itself in front of her. And her brother's manic grin. 

Ominis was sixteen now, and Sebastian was gone. Anne was too. 

In all his time at school, he'd never gone home for winter break and he didn't intend to now. Even if he had nowhere to go instead. 

Because you were leaving him too. 

He'd be, once again, alone.

You'd be going home to your own family to spend Christmas surrounded by love and warmth. Not that he wasn't happy for you, he was! But you wouldn't be with him.  It wasn't your fault. You'd begged your parents to let him come along. 

But why, oh why, would they ever approve? How could they possibly want him – a Gaunt – in their household? 

"That family has a reputation, Y/N." They'd said.

Well, they were right. And he was bitter. And he was sad. And he just wanted to spend Christmas with you. Why was that too much to ask?

He heard you sigh next to him. The sound brought him back to reality. You hadn't left for home yet. You'd leave in the morning. For now, however, you were curled up against him on the sofa in front of the fireplace in the Slytherin Common Room. The flames crackled and roared and he so adored the scent of pine and applewood burning. You hadn’t left him yet. He could still feel you. 

Your cheek against his shoulder. Your hand in his. You smelled like peppermint.

“I wish you could come with me,” You whispered. And you didn’t say you wished you could stay. Because you loved your family and he was so happy that you did. He wished he had the same luxury.

“As do I,” He said. He tried to smile.

“I’ll miss you.”

“I hope you will.” He knew he’d miss you so much more. 

He felt you shift, resting your forehead against his arm now, stroking from his forearm to his hand. You drew in a breath.

“Greeting cards have all been sent… the Christmas rush is through. But I still have one wish to make, a special one for you.” The tune was slow and you sang it so softly. He’d be the only one in the common room to hear it. You didn’t have the most beautiful voice he’d ever heard, but in that moment, you sounded like an angel. Ominis squeezed your hand tighter. 

“Merry Christmas, darling. We're apart, that's true. But I can dream, and in my dreams, I'm Christmas-ing with you.”

“That’s a very nice thought.” He interrupted, unable to stop a smile from tugging at the corner of his lips. You laughed and kept singing. 

“Holidays are joyful. There's always something new. But every day's a holiday. When I'm near to you.” He ducked his head and blushed, and not just a little bit. See, you were one of those people who never said a word you didn’t mean - unlike him. You were always so sincere. 

“Oh, how flattering.”

You kissed the back of his hand.

“The lights on my tree, I wish you could see. I wish it every day.”

“Why would I need them when I have you?” He murmured. As if you weren’t doing enough, you leaned in to kiss his cheek. You were warm. You’d take your warmth with you.

“Logs on the fire fill me with desire to see you and to say that I wish you Merry Christmas. Happy New Year too. I've just one wish on this Christmas Eve. I wish I were with you.”

He couldn’t take it anymore. He stood up abruptly, grabbed your soft, warm hands, and pulled you up against him. You were wearing his sweater. It was far too big for you so he had to go searching for your hands in its sleeves, but he wouldn’t have it any other way. One arm around your waist, yours around his neck, your hand in his. 

“Dance with me?” He breathed. “Just once more… before you go.” 

And sure, you wouldn’t be leaving him forever. But it would feel like longer.

You laughed that sweet laugh of yours and he knew that if he could bottle the atmosphere around them, that emotion on his tongue would keep him warm through the winter. He held you tighter, trying to memorize every inch, every layer of your scent. There was peppermint, and cinnamon, chocolate, and pine. He loved it all. You smelled like the only home he had left. When you were gone, your scent was all he’d have of you. Your family was poor as dirt. Ominis didn’t care, but your parents wouldn’t allow you any money to spend on him of all people. You were the only gift he wanted now anyway. Your presence alone was too much to ask, yet you gave it so willingly.

“Logs on the fire fill me with desire to see you and to say that I wish you a Merry Christmas. Happy New Year too. I've just one wish on this Christmas Eve, I wish I were with you.” You stood up on your tip-toes to whisper to him. Your hand found its way into his hair. “I wish I were with you.”

His breath hitched and what was a dance collapsed into a longing embrace. He held you as tight as he could, burying his face in your shoulder. Though he wasn’t one to be so cavalier with expressions of emotion, he couldn’t help but dip his head to nip at your collarbone. The mark he knew he’d leave wasn’t for him. He just… didn’t want you to forget, was all. And he had to leave more kisses - a trail of them along your perfectly smooth throat. He hoped the taste of your skin would keep his cheeks burning through the January freeze.

You were the one to kiss his lips. When you pulled away, you placed your hands on his cheeks and rubbed your nose against his.

“Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas…” You whispered. 

He sighed.

“Merry Christmas, darling.”

That sweater of his that you were wearing… after wishing you farewell at the train station, he’d find it folded on his bed when he got back. It smelled like you. A note in Braile accompanied it. 

“To keep you warm until I return. Wear it. (I cast a preservation charm on it this morning.)”

He did wear it. And your scent on the wool didn’t fade until you returned and tugged it off him.

This fic is dedicated to @witchcraftandgeekness for telling me to f#ck everybody. Not in the sexy way.

[exhausted-archivist]

ALT

Flora of Thedas Master List

Master list of all the flora in Thedas, mentioned or seen.

Additional notes on certain items will be listed at the bottom, for items marked with asterisks, see the key below for a brief explanation and the Game assets and Additional Notes and Trivia section at the bottom. Sources are listed at the very end and this time linked.

For other lists here are posts for: Real Plants in Thedas

Key: * - Name comes from the asset file name ** - Name not provided but identified based on the textures used on the asset. *** - See Additional Notes and Trivia.

General Flora: Flowers and Foliage

Acacia*: Black Wood*

Andraste's Grace

Ardent Blossom

Ash

Aspen

Banyan Tree*

Barbwood

Beech Tree

Belladonna

Birch: White Birch*

Blackthorn

Bluebell

Borage

Boswellia

Boxwood*

Buttercup

Cactus: Pear Cactus*

Cattail*

Cedar: Red Cedar

Chicory

Clover: Forest Clover*

Coleus**

Cosmos

Cotton

Crape Myrtle

Cypress: Italian Cypress*, Topiary Cypress*

Daffodil

Daisy: Marguerite

Dandelion

Dog-rose

Dogwood*

Elephant Ear*

Elm

Fade Berry*

Felicidus Aria

Fern: Red Fern*, Sword Fern*

Fir

Flax

Foxleaf*

Frangipani

Gorse

Harlot's Blush

Hawthorn

Hay

Hemp

Hensbane

Hero Tree*

Hollyhock

Honeysuckle

Iris

Ironbark

Ironwood***

Itchweed

Ivy

Jasmin

Larch

Lichen: Glowing Lichen

Lilac

Lily: Calla Lily**, Water Lily

Lotus

Maple

Marigold

Moss: Oakmoss, Redmoss, Tree-Moss

Nightshade

Northern Prickleweed

Oak: Serault Oak

Orchid

Palm Tree: Curly Palm*, Fan Palm*

Pansy

Peony

Pine: Chir Pine*, Stone Pine

Ponga Tree*

Poppy

Prickle-burrs

Redwood*

Rose: Climbing Rose

Rowan

Sandalwood

Seaweed

Snapdragon

Spruce

Sugar Cane

Sundew

Sunflower

Sylvanwood

Tahanis

Thistle

Trex*

Trullium

Vasanthum

Violet

Walnut: Black Walnut

Waterweed*

Wilds Flower

Willow

Witchhazel*

Wysteria

Yew

Fruits

Apple: Applewood Apple, Green Apple, Golden Apple, Red Apple

Apricot

Banana

Berries: Blackberry, Blueberry, Bramble Berry, Cranberry, Elderberry, Raspberry, Strawberry

Cherry

Citron

Coco, Chocolate

Coconut

Coffee

Currants: Black Currant

Fig

Grape

Lemon

Lime

Melon

Nuts: Almonds, Chestnut, Hognut, Peanuts

Olives

Orange: Sweet Orange

Palm Fruit: Date

Passion Fruit

Peach

Pear: Bradford Pear*

Plum

Pomegranate

Grains

Barley

Oats

Rice

Ryott

Wheat

Vegetables

Artichoke

Beans: Bush Bean, Green Bean, Pale Bean, White Bean

Beets

Bell Peppers: Red Bell Peppers

Cabbage

Capers

Carrot

Celery

Chive

Corn

Cucumber

Daikon Radish*

Eggplant

Fennel

Onion: Red Onion, Sweet Onion, White Onion

Pea

Peppers: Antivan Pepper, Green Pepper, Hot Pepper, Hot Red Pepper, Sweet Pepper

Potato

Radish

Spinach

Squash: Baby Pumpkin, Marrow Squash, Pumpkin, String Squash

Tomato

Turnip

Fungus of Thedas

Deep Mushrooms

Bleeding Russula

Blightcap

Blighted Morel

Brimstone Mushroom

Deep Mushroom

Destroying Spirit

Ghoul's Mushroom

Unnamed Mushroom Ortan Thaig

Surface Mushrooms

Beetle Spore

Drakevein

Field Mushroom

Gasbloom*

Sponge Root***

Toadstool

Truffle

Morel***

Unnamed Glowing Mushroom***

Unnamed Mushroom***

Spices

Allspice

Antivan Cord-Seed

Cardamom

Cinnamon

Clove

Cumin, Cumin Seed

Dill, Dill Seed

Juniper

Licorice

Mace

Mustard

Nutmeg

Pepper: Black Pepper

Peppercorn: Black Peppercorn

Saffron

Vanilla

ALT

Herbs of Thedas

Herbs count as anything that Dragon Age has classified as an herb (whether technically correct or not), plants that are used as herbs in real life. These do not include mushrooms, fungi, or deep mushrooms simply for ease of organization.

Amrita Vein

Andraste's Mantle

Arbor Blessing

Basil

Bay

Catsbane

Crystal Grace

Deathroot: Arcanist Deathroot, Lunatic's Deathroot

Dragonthorn

Elfroot/Canavaris: Bitter Elfroot, Gossamer Elfroot, Royal Elfroot

Embrium: Dark Embrium, Salubrious Embrium

Felandaris

Foxite

Garlic

Ghoul's Beard

Ginger

Heatherum

Lavender

Lotus: Black Lotus, Blood Lotus, Dawn Lotus

Madcap

Mint: Anderfel's Mint, Foxmint, Peppermint

Mintroot - Not a true mint based on its description and the fact that it grows on trees.

Oregano

Parsley

Prophet's Laurel

Rashvine

Rashvine Nettle

Redleaf

Rosemary

Sage

Spindleweed: Verdant Spindleweed

Stripweed

Thyme

Vandal Aria

Winterberry***

Witherstalk

Star Anise

Wormwood

Wormroot***

Game Assets Notes

These are plants shown in Dragon Age but aren't named in universe, just in their model files or through identification of the textures. Since most filler plant textures are just that of real world plants.

**NOTE:** When I mention they are not the known name of any plant, this comes with the caveat of being popular common names. Common names are highly variable and inconsistent. They depend on regional knowledge and association. Some travel farther than others. Common names are also not reliable identifiers.

Acacia: Black Wood ~ Note: Black Wood is a type of acacia. Both acacia and black wood are named assets.

Artichoke ~ Note: Identification comes from asset name, the artichoke flower is used as ornamentation of a box.

Banyan Tree

Boxwood ~ A type of shrub, identification comes from asset name.

Bradford Pear ~ Their fruits are edible, however their flowers are known to emit a smell akin to rotting meat. Identification comes from asset name.

Calla Lily ~ Note: Not named but identified by the texture used. It is seen in Val Royeaux planters.

Cattail ~ Note: Seen through out DAO and DAI, identification comes from asset name.

Coleus ~ Note: Not named but identified by the texture used. It is seen in Val Royeaux planters and in the Frostback Basin.

Crape Myrtle

Cypress: Italian Cypress, Topiary Cypress ~ Note: In terms of the Italian Cypress, in world it wouldl likely be called the "Antivan Cypress" given that Antiva is pulling from Italian culture, food, environments, and other inspirational elements. Cypress is a plant that is named in canon.

Daikon Radish ~ Note: Found on Dennet's farm, identification comes from asset name.

Dogwood

Elephant Ear ~ Note: Foliage found in the Frostback Basin, identification comes from asset name.

Fade Berry

Fern: Red Fern, Sword Fern ~ Note: The red fern isn't a real plant and therefore can be considered unique to Thedas. In contrast the sword fern is a real plant. Identification comes from the asset name for both of these ferns.

Forest Clover

Foxleaf ~ Note: This is another plant that is not real, no plant has this common name as far as I could find.

Gasbloom ~ Note: Seen in the Arbor Wilds, the Frostback Basin some elven ruins, and the elven ruins of multiplayer levels. Their identification comes from the asset name. There are two versions of the texture the "fixed" version is used in JoH dlc and thus explains the difference in appearance. This is not the name of a known mushroom.

Hero Tree

Palm: Curly Palm, Fan Palm ~ Note: Both palms are seen in the Frostback Basin, both are identified by their named assets.

Pear Cactus ~ Note: Found in the Frostback Basin, identification comes from the asset name.

Pine: Chir Pine

Ponga Tree ~ Note: Also known as the 'Tree Fern'. This is the tree you see in Val Royeaux garden as coming from Par Vollen, and throughout the Arbor Wilds.

Redwood ~ Note: Identified by the name of the file asset. Found in the Winter Palace, Exalted Plains, and on multiplayer maps.

Snapdragon

Trex

Waterweed ~ Note: In real life this is an entire genus not one particular plant. Though the six plants in this genus do share the common name of waterweed.

White Birch

Witchhazel

Additional Notes and Trivia

Ironwood - Unclear if this is an alternative name, the actual name of the plant, or both.

Morel - This mushroom is inferred due to the existence of Blighted Morel. However it is not explicitly specified there is a non-blighted morel.

Sponge Root - Though canonical as it is mentioned and shown in World of Thedas vol. 2 on pg. 138 with a collection of deep mushroom and surface mushroom illustrations. This mushroom was cut twice from Inquisition. It was cut from the base game as a craftable, it had a much different appearance from its final design, and then it was cut again from Trespasser. It does however still make an appearance in Inquisition as the inventory icon for Crystal Grace.

Unnamed Glowing Mushroom Is mentioned in multiplayer when there are two Lukas playing.

Unnamed Mushroom These brown mushrooms are seen in the Fallow Mire and the Frostback Basin. They are shown in two different sizes ranging from shorter than a dwarf to taller than one.

There is one unlisted mushroom, its assets is named "red mushroom" and thus is identified by textures. These is not a canon name but is included for completeness. Amanita Muscaria: More commonly know as fly agaric or fly amanita, the red top with white spots is an iconic in its imagery. You will find large swaths of these mushrooms in the Frostback Basin. Their assets is named "Red Mushroom".

Winterberry is a real plant. However, from what we see in DA2, it does not the same as the plant we have in the real world, just a shared common name.

Wormroot is another real plant name. However, due to the description in The Calling, it does not seem to be the same plant. In The Calling it is used to treat the venom of a giant spider. The real world plant is used to treat parasites in the gut and does not seem to hold any shared uses in folk lore, folk medicine, or western medicine practices.

Sources

Dragon Age Origins + DLCs Dragon Age 2 Dragon Age Last Court Dragon Age Inquisition + DLCs Dragon Age TTRPG Core Rulebook Dragon Age TTRPG Blood of Ferelden Dragon Age TTRPG: Creatures of Thedas: Wyvern

World of Thedas Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 Dragon Age: The Stolen Throne Dragon Age: The Calling Dragon Age: The Masked Empire Dragon Age: Last Flight Dragon Age: Tevinter Nights Short Story: Paying the Ferryman Short Story: Riddle in the Truth Short Story: The Wake

Origins Andraste's Grace Codex: The Bercillian Forest Codex: Falon'Din: Friend of the Dead, the Guide Codex: Feast Day Fish Codex: The History of Soldier's Peak: Chapter 3 Codex: Ironbark Codex: A Note from the Honnleath Village Council Codex: Sylaise: The Hearthkeeper Codex: Sylvan Codex: A Tattered Shopping List Item: Concentrator Agent Item: Deep Mushroom Item: Figurine Item: Madcap Bulb Item: Rare Antivan Brandy Item: Rashvine Nettle Item: Spirit Charm Item: Spirit Cord Item: Sugar Cake Item: Swift Salve Item: West Hill Brandy Item: Wilds Flower

DA 2 Ambrosia Bianca (Crossbow) Ironwood Clearing Codex: Deathroot Codex: Deep Mushroom Codex: Embrium Codex: Felandaris Codex: The Hedge Witch Codex: Spindleweed Item: Carved Ironwood Buttons Item: Harlot's Blush Quest: Hard to Stomach Quest: The Long Road Quest: Tranquility Weapon: The Celebrant Weapon: Ironwood Shield Weapon: Ironwood Warblade

Inquisition Codex: Amrita Vein Codex: Arbor Blessing Codex: Avvar Cuisine Codex: Black Lotus Codex: Blood Lotus Codex: Bottles of Thedas Codex: Crystal Grace Codex: Elfroot Codex: Ghoul's Beard Codex: The Girl in Red Crossing Codex: Hard in Hightown Chapter 7 Codex: Hard in Hightown Chapter 10 Codex: Mediations and Odes to Bees Codex: Notes on Palace Guests Codex: The Orlesian Civil War Codex: Prophet's Laurel Codex: Rashvine Codex: Rashvine Nettle Codex: Vandal Aria Codex: Vivienne's Alchemy Notes Codex: Waterlogged Diary Codex: Witherstalk Note: Betta's Traveling Journal Note: Carta Note on Security Note: Field Notes Note: The Gilded Horn's Drink List Note: Knight-Captain's Orders Note: Love Letter Note: A Note from Skyhold's Kitchens Note: A Note from Skyhold's Kitchens, Again War Table: The Dance with the Dowager: The Allemande Item: Ardent Blossom

Last Court The Abbess' Road The Anchoress Arrival of the Divine The Feast is Ending Fires Flames of Freedom Good Neighbors Heartwood Feast The Hounds The Lord of the Wood Comes a-Calling The Purveyor of Teas Road and River A Swift Stream Thieves! Unofficial Meeting

Want to support this blog? Check out my ko-fi!

[mitchamsocialuser]

Wood Fired Pizza Ovens

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy pizza at home, you might want to consider getting a wood fired pizza oven. It’s not only a great way to prepare a one-pot meal, but you’ll be able to enjoy the food even more than you could if you made it on your stove.

Getting it to the right temperature

Wood fired pizza ovens are great for making pizzas. But if you want to get the most out of your dough, you need to understand the temperature of your oven.

The temperature of your oven will depend on the type of wood you’re using. You can also get the most out of your oven by choosing a build that’s well-insulated. This will keep the heat in and your crust crispy.

Using an infrared thermometer can be a good way to determine your oven’s temperature. An infrared thermometer works by measuring the heat radiated from the fire. While you won’t be able to use it to check the actual temperature of your oven, it will give you an idea of what the average household oven can do.

There are many different types of wood for a wood-fired pizza oven. Applewood, beech, and oak are the top choices. These are all great options for baking your pizzas, and will provide you with the best heat yield.

Choosing the right wood

Finding the right wood for pizza ovens can make or break the flavor of your pizza. The type of wood that you use will impact the taste, as well as the way your pizza is cooked.

There are many different types of wood to choose from, depending on your personal preferences and the type of pizza you want to make. A few popular choices include applewood, cherry, maple, walnut, pecan, and oak.

Maple is a favorite for many people, as it burns slowly and produces little smoke. It has a sweet flavor that is not overpowering. Cherry is another wood that adds a touch of fruity flavor to the pizza.

Hickory, on the other hand, adds a rich flavor to meats, but is also bitter. You may also want to avoid alder, as it can stain clothing. Also, you should be careful not to burn treated wood. If you do, the wood may release toxic chemicals into the pizza.

Cleaning the ash and burnt toppings off

The cleanliness of the oven is important for its performance. It is especially important to clean it immediately after use. This will make sure that it does not damage the pizza toppings. However, it can be difficult to clean up stains. Fortunately, there are several steps to follow to ensure a squeaky-clean oven.

First, the wood should be completely dry. If the wood is damp, it will not burn hot enough. In addition, it can also cause smoke.

Once the wood has dried, it should be seasoned for at least one year. This will help reduce the amount of sap that the wood contains. Depending on the type of pizza you plan to cook, you can use walnut, maple, apple, pecan or cherry.

You can also mix fruitwoods with other hardwoods to get a milder flavor. For example, you can blend elderberry trees with other fruitwoods. These woods are good for cooking vegetables and meats.

Cooking one-pot meals

If you have a wood fired pizza oven, you can cook a variety of foods. These can include fish, pork, and other dishes. They are a healthy and versatile cooking option. Besides, the fire imparts a smoky flavor to the food.

When it comes to recipes, you should have a little practice before you attempt to cook with a fire. To determine the right temperatures, you can use infrared thermometers. Thermometers are cheap these days and are perfect for measuring the right temperature.

For starters, you can make scampi. This Italian dish is quick and easy to prepare. You can choose from different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

Another great dish is a lava cake. To create this dessert, you need a few essential ingredients. It is easy to cook in a wood fired oven. In addition to chocolate, you will need eggs, sugar, and butter.

Another fast and simple meal to cook in a wood fired pizza oven is shrimp. You can even prepare the recipe ahead of time.

[duccnguyen]

Smoking Lisa: Bourbon, Amaretto, Bittercube Bolivar bitters, Bittered Sling Plum & Rootbeer bitters & applewood smoke #InsiderMTL #BarMTL #MontrealByNight #MTLMoments #MTLaTable #jadoremonresto #Bootleggercocktailbar (at Bootlegger Cocktail Bar) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClwPNsOrop2/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[pancakewithamace]

WIP Snippet

I was tagged to show a snippet of a wip! i'm nervous but – here is a part of one of my dramatic Sanders Sides WIPs lmao (i cut out some phrases that are eehhhh fluff for simpler reading). as necessary context, the character Logan is the prince of a kingom called Falos, and has a magic runestone called Ehwaz that he thought only let him talk to animals. turns out, if misused, it can also mind-control animals (whoops!) and it sucks.

Tall trees cuddle close to their campfire and blend into the softer darkness. Bushels of leaves shake the wind out of them, much like a dog would water from its fur. All around them, crickets count the stars in rattling chirps. From [their] campfire, soft flames light a circle around unrolled beds and backpacks, breathing slowly with a pulse every few seconds. Flickering. Occasionally it spits out a small spark.

Logan’s face and knees and eyes are warm in the firelight. [...]

Only a few feet away, Virgil wraps his blanket up over his lap and frowns. Both of the boys are mesmerized by the fire and the only ones left awake.

In a whisper, Virgil asks, “Are you thinking about something?”

“The wood.” Logan huffs, hoping Virgil would get it. The other must’ve, he always seemed to. But, instead, Virgil keeps frowning, this time directed at Logan.

The other prince’s delicate arms look pretty crossed over his chest like they are. “The wood?” He asks, “Like where it’s from?”

Logan turns his head to Virgil, but flicked his eyes away from the fire last. He says, “It’s…from this forest?” and didn’t like how uncertain his voice sounded. So he adds, “They’re applewood trees.”

Virgil glares. It hurts. “Logan.”

“What?”

Logan doesn’t like how bitter he sounded.

“What…about the forest are you thinking of?”

When he shuts his eyes, Logan can see that horned deer; how its eyes were wide with fear when he commanded it to do his bidding. A horrible blue had filled its irises, like a sickening realization had filled Logan’s chest — understanding, at a horrible cost, the actual power of the Ehwaz stone. The animal’s mind had been helpless to his will. It had turned around and ran into the fire without any thought for itself, leaving behind the smell of iron, burning like the wood had, close to home.

“The- the wood,” Logan mutters, staring back toward the campfire. The flames are hot and burning and hurt to touch. It’s a safer danger than Virgil’s eyes, firm and sculpted; the color of clear, smoked honey. “It’s same as the fireplaces in the castle.”

Logan doesn’t want the stinging burn in the corner of his eyes. Painful, like the sour lump in his throat.

Virgil is silent. He shivered in the dark, sighing.

“Were…the fireplaces at Falos special to you somehow?” the other asks, looking back toward the fire. His tone is so gentle. Logan feels a mist across his eyes, and every muscle in his body wants to be closer to Virgil, or a touch, or a hug, or something as gentle as his voice but it’s an irrational, emotional reaction. An urge, so he can’t.

Logan tries to forget that, and recalls the library where he’d spent most of his time in the Falos castle. Always flanked on either side by towering wooden shelves of colorful books, quiet with the windows opened, fresh parchment and lit applewood in the fireplace beneath a carved stone mantle. Virgil would love how peaceful it was there, and Logan would too if he were there with him. Flustered when realizing the intimacy of that desire, Logan hastily thinks of the floor. “The… library. It had the best fireplace, the prettiest.”

A small shift. Logan feels Virgil looking at him. Against his will, warmth flamed under his cheeks. His heart was a drum that throbbed with self-consciousness.

Virgil asks then, his head tilt, “Did it ever burn you?”

Logan closes his eyes, and instead of darkness there’s a flash and he sees the deer again. Standing at attention, its eyes fogged with blue by the words Ehwaz made it understand. [...] ...the sickening plummet, Logan’s anger at what he’d done; the way the rune stone has stayed cold in his hand, uncaring. The deer wouldn’t came back.

“Yes, it burned me, once,” Logan says to Virgil. The stinging beneath his eyes bubbles up, clouding his vision. The fire goes blurry, blacks and browns and gold. “I was four, and… I did not know, I didn’t realize…”

“But you…you learned, right?” Virgil says, and Logan can hear hopefulness in his voice. With every blink, tears fall down Logan’s cheeks. “You learned. It hurt, I bet, but you won’t do it again.”

“No.” Logan sets his shoulders. He hates that he has to choose this power. [...] “No,” he says, “I won’t do it again, now that I know.”

definitely gonna regret picking this section tomorrow lmao.

here are the people i'm tagging!

@januskin, @what-even-is-thiss, @willofwriting, @5am-the-foxing-hour, @nonbinary-writing, @ravenwashere1776, @bookwormscififan

WIP Snippet

thank you @mysdrym for the tag to post a WIP snippet! Here’s a shameless plug for my AU story A Shadow UNIverse, in which I invent an excuse to continue not using the Maw Walker’s real name for another full story 😂

“Oh, you must mean our resident Maw Walker!" exclaimed Theotar at Renathal's description when he came round in the afternoon to bring the staff tea. The short, jovial man enjoyed a reputation that outshone his stature: for knowing everything about everyone in the department, and for his unparalleled brew. Renathal raised an eyebrow. ”A Maw Walker?” It was the less-than-affectionate nickname given to students banished to the old campus housing. The tall, decrepit buildings loomed out of the concrete like jagged teeth around the desolate, natureless chasm lurking in the middle that was the old quad. The Maw, they called it. The new campus had warm tunnels and brightly lit covered walkways to ferry students to all the important school buildings without having to brave the elements. But those relegated to the older campus were forced to walk across the unprotected, ever-shadowed Maw to get anywhere they needed to go. It was the housing given to students and staff who couldn't afford anything else, and precious few of either came through Denathrius' department. "How did she get stuck in the Maw?" "Well, she is new, and presumably not well off," explained Theotar as he prepared Renathal's cuppa. "An exchange student from one of those foreign places.” He gestured vaguely in no particular direction. "On a student visa, you know, so the only work she can get is with the school and I believe they put her up there at a reduced fee. She has helped in the kitchens several times, and I confess, I've grown most fond of her. She’s quite the tea aficionado, we can chat about it for ages, and she does bamboozle with that sense of humour!” Renathal wondered if they were talking about the same person after all. “And how do you say her name?" “Oh, no one knows that,” Theotar tittered, tapping the spoon against the side of the cup with three delicate clinks. “She tried once to explain how to pronounce it, but … I’m afraid no one could quite grasp all its subtle nuances. So, the Maw Walker moniker stuck!

Tagging: @shipping-through-eternity @cljordan-imperium @laplumedemaureen @msahagunauthor @smzeszikorova @pancakewithamace @charlottewritings @frozen-fountain if you want to post a snippet from whatever you’re currently working on (no rule length, entirely lawless, go wild)

[realityparty]

SUMMARY: The most painful confession he ever voiced was too late. It's always too late.

This has been sitting on my laptop forever. It’s very short and canon compliant for any season, I guess. It’s a sad one, but I was in sad Dean x Jo feels I guess. I do have more Dean x Jo centric things I am working on, but I’m a slow writer. 

So this isn't a full-blown Dean x Jo fic, it’s more implied a bit angsty I guess. 

Hope the few Chesterville fans enjoy!

"Hey, it's Dean…"

It's always how he begins. He knows she has caller ID. If it's a new number he is calling from, she's a good enough hunter to deduce it's him. 

He grew up a nomad with constantly changing numbers and scratchy sheets. She grew up on stability and a warm bed to call her own. 

He's not too sure what he wants to say this time. 

Sometimes he tells her about his day. 

How he made nice juicy cheeseburgers with smoked applewood bacon and a toasted bun sprinkled with cheddar on top. He even made french fries with a new fancy potato cutter he bought from the store. 

He explains in detail how he put green dye in Sam's body wash, making him look like a Grinch. 

He tells her about taking Cas to another bar. No sex workers this time. Just a jukebox, whiskey, and a pool table. He tries to tell her about the arcade game and his throat tightens as he remembers a pretty blonde rejoicing after winning. He couldn't look too long as he was scared of the face that would turn around and see him. 

He doesn't go to that bar again. 

He asks questions, of course, about how she's doing. The monsters she takes down and feels her wrath. He reminds her not to be a show-off. To always be aware of her surroundings. His lips tug as he can hear her bitching; she knows how to do her job. 

He knows she does. Just sometimes he hates it. He hates this life. Hates the sacrifices his family has made for each other and the world. For once, he wishes he could be selfish. 

Yet, these thoughts he says in pained, drunken whispers. They are more mumbles than anything. 

True confessions of a broken, weary heart.

Yet, the most painful confession he ever voiced was too late. It's always too late. 

He always wanted an apple pie life when he just wanted a life outside of hunting. Instead, he has the bitter taste of grapefruit on his tongue. He had a taste of it with her cold, copper-coated lips. 

It was always the wrong time, the wrong place. 

He thinks - knows - that he loves her.

Look at where that got her. 

[angelasscribbles]

Complicated Part 16: All of My Life

Series: Complicated

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley

Rating: M

Warnings: Language, adult themes

My other stuff: Master List.

Song Inspiration: It Might be You by Stephen Bishop

Disclaimer: Characters represented here as well as the original story are owned by pixelberry. This content has been written by Angela Harrison based on those characters/stories.

Riley stepped into the private dining room of the restaurant that had obviously been cleared. Other than security, she saw no one else until she was ushered into a room in the back. She had been around Liam long enough to recognize why the room was chosen, it was away from any windows, easier to protect. A guard held the door open for her then closed it behind her as she stepped through.

Liam was on the far side of the room, pacing. In the fraction of a second it took for him to hear her enter and look up, she took in his demeanor, his posture, his facial expression. He was definitely stressed and upset, but she saw something else she was unaccustomed to seeing on his face: fear. Her brow furrowed, what was he afraid of? Was there a new threat? Was that why he had called her here?

Then he looked up and saw her. Their eyes met and something flashed across Liam’s face. His eyes widened and he sucked in a breath, then a smile spread across his face as he hurried across the room to take her hands in his.

“I trust you slept well? Have you eaten? I took the liberty of having something prepared.” He released one of her hands to gesture towards a table at the side of the room that was loaded with food. “Nothing fancy, it was short notice.”

She took in the display of assorted pastas, meats, and sandwiches. “Wow, it looks great. To what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?”

Liam had the kitchen prepare a variety of food and leave it buffet style to ensure privacy. He didn’t want wait staff coming in and out while they spoke.

“Do I need a reason to want to see you?” He asked, something in his voice brought her eyes up to his. He looked vulnerable, nervous and a little sad.

“No.” She responded carefully, not sure what was going on in his head, “But you usually invent one, or try to keep your distance entirely.” She tried not to sound bitter or accusing, but it was true. Even during the social season, their time together had been limited and he never showed her undue affection in front of others.

Liam stared at her for a long minute then nodded as he turned and led her to a table, pulling out her chair so she could sit. “You’re right. But that ends, today.”

“What do you mean?”

“Just….stay here. I’ll explain, but first, what would you like to eat?”

“Oh, I can get it-“ She started to raise from her seat but Liam shook his head emphatically.

“No, I’ll make you a plate.”

He filled a plate with a little bit of everything and placed it on the table in front of her.

“Aren’t you going to eat?” She asked in amusement, “Because I don’t think I can eat if you’re just going to stand there and stare at me.”

“Oh, right, sorry.” He grinned sheepishly and returned to fill his own plate. Not that he had any kind of an appetite. He was too nervous, too focused on the conversation that he wasn’t at all sure how to start. He decided to start with the easy stuff.

“We have a lead on Tariq.”

He filled her in on the details of the search while she ate and he picked at his food. Then he dropped the other bit of information the security team had uncovered, “We know who paid the reporter and set you up at Applewood.”

Riley dropped her fork, “Who?”

“Lady Kiara.”

Riley’s mouth fell open, “Kiara? What? Why?”

Kiara had been one of the ladies that had supported her at the end of the social season. Of course, she had defected to team Madeleine immediately upon Liam announcing his choice. The memory of that moment, that night, still hurt. Maybe Kiara had always been team Madeleine and the rest had been an act.

Liam looked away, unable to meet her eyes for a moment. Then he sighed as he realzez that this was as good of a segue as any. “She wasn’t the mastermind, she was a tool, someone was able to manipulate her into it by playing on her feelings for Drake.”

Riley blinked. “Drake?”

Liam was watching her with laser focus as he responded, “Yes. Apparently, someone convinced her that you were having an affair with Drake and because she has her own feelings for him, I guess she hoped to get rid of the competition.”

“Oh! I….” Riley trialed off, unsure how to respond. She was confused. Yes, she had developed feelings for Drake, but that had been afterthe social season, not during. She met Liam’s eyes and asked, “Why would anyone think that?”

Liam’s shoulders relaxed; he felt the tension drain out of his body at her genuine confusion. Whatever feelings she had for Drake hadn’t been present then. What the two of them shared, had been real. He was surprised by just how relieved he felt. He knew that didn’t change the fact that she had feelings for Drake now, but it somehow softened the blow. He could, and did, understand how his perceived abandonment had affected her, how vulnerable she had been, that she had needed a friend to turn to, a shoulder to cry on. It would be a source of eternal sorrow and regret to him that he hadn’t been the one to provide that, that he had, in fact, been the cause of her heartache, however unintended it had been.

He moved his chair so that he was sitting next to her and angled himself towards her, taking her hands in his again he replied softly, “Because of his feelings for you. People noticed.”

Riley felt several emotions wash over her, mostly shock, also an undeniable thrill at the confirmation of Drake’s feelings, a stab of guilt for the thrill, and surprise that Liam didn’t seem angry. “Oh, ah…you know that he….I mean….”

“Yes, love.” He pulled her hands up to his mouth to drop kisses along the backs of them, “I figured it out last night and this morning he confirmed it.”

“Oh no! Liam, I’m so sorry! I never meant for anything to happen! I didn’t even know, I mean, I wasn’t aware, at first, not back then, I never gave him any-“ She pulled her hands out of his and stood up in distress.

“Shhhh. I know, I know.” He murmured soothingly as he stood and reached for her hands again. “He explained all of that. I know that his feelings were one sided. At least, they were, until recently. Am I right? You have developed feelings for him?”

She looked at him for a moment, waiting for him to be angry, to yell at her, to accuse her of being faithless, but he did none of those things. Instead, he looked so sad and forlorn that her heart hurt, and tears started to pool in her eyes. Before she could stop them, they spilled over, streaking down her cheeks as a giant, shuddering sob shook her entire body.

Liam felt like someone had just ripped his heart out of his chest and thrown it on the floor to be trampled on, not because Riley loved Drake, because he had, once again, made her cry.

“Please don’t be sad, love.” He whispered as he pulled her body into his and stroked her hair, “I can’t bear it. None of this is your fault.”

She pulled back to look up at him in confusion, “What do you mean it’s not my fault? I fell in love with another man!”

Liam winced. He had known it, but it still hurt to hear it, especially coming from her mouth. He sighed, then gave her a sad smile as he wiped the tears from her face, “I know. But the circumstances under which that happened were my doing. At least in part. I could have handled everything better, differently, something.”

He shook his head, frustrated with himself. He had pushed her away, that had been his intention. That fact that it was for her safety had never been communicated to her, not until far later than it should have been. Surely he could have found a way to get a message to her? Bertrand was still the Duke of Ramsford and certainly he could have come up with a believable pretext to meet with him on some business related to governing.

Riley let out a shocked bark of laughter. She was absolutely certain that there was no other man on the planet that would find out the woman he loved, and his best friend had feelings for each other and remain calm, much less try to shoulder the blame for it. Though, he had a point. Had he proposed to her that night, per plan, she would likely still be clueless about Drake’s feelings for her and whatever spark she had felt for him would have remained just that, never having had a chance to grow into anything more.

“Liam, you have to know that nothing happened, not until after-“

“It’s ok my love, you don’t owe me an explanation. I lost that right when I got engaged to Madeleine. Listen.” His hand rested on her face, his thumb gently stroking her cheek, “If you want an out, just tell me. I only want your happiness. If I need to step back-“

Riley pulled out of his grasp and stumbled backwards, “You don’t want me anymore?”

“What?” Panic flashed across his face, she has misread his intentions completely, “Of course I want you! Riley!” He reached out for her, but she stepped away again.

“If this is your way of breaking up with me, not that we’re really together because your engaged to Madeleine, but-“

“Riley!” He caught up with her as she stalked across the room trying to put distance between them, “No, no, no, no, no! That’s not what I’m saying at all! If you’ll listen to me, please, please!” He could not let misunderstandings come between them again.

“Then what are you saying Liam? Because it sounded like you just offered to ‘step back’ and hand me over to Drake!” She was breathing heavy, and fury snapped through her eyes.

He hadn’t meant to make her angry, but he was thrilled to find her furious at the thought of him stepping back. He bit back a smile, fearing she would misunderstand again. “I love you, I’m stupidly, hopelessly and irrevocably in love with you! Of course I want you, you’re all I want! I want to put this scandal behind us, marry you, spend the rest of my life making it all up to you, if you’ll let me. My offer wasn’t an out for me, that’s the last thing I want! But if you- I mean- I don’t want- I want you to be happy Riley, that’s what matters to me. I only offered to step back in case you’ve already decided-“ He stopped, unable to complete the sentence. He felt like his heart was caught in a vise.

He took a very deep breath and tried again, “If you’re not in love with me anymore-“

Without thinking about it, or realizing she was doing it until it was done, Riley went up on her toes grabbed him by the back of his head, her hand gripping his hair as she pulled him down into a kiss. He hesitated for a bare moment, then his arms went around her, and he pulled her into him, deepening the kiss.

The kiss was tender and slow and full of promise. When it finally broke, Liam rested his forehead on hers and tried to catch his breath. “Wow. That was quiet a kiss! So does that mean you don’twant me to step back?”

“I absolutely don’t. I love you, Liam. That has never been in question. Even when my heart was so broken, I thought I might die from the pain, I still loved you. Even when I tried not to.”

“I’m so sorry for the pain I’ve caused you, it breaks my heart to think of it, but I am relieved to know that you love me.”

She smiled but it didn’t reach her eyes. “I do love you Liam, and I want to be with you but….”

Liam sighed; he had known this wasn’t going to be easy. “But you still have feelings for Drake, right?”

She nodded, “I do, and I don’t know what to do about it.”

“I don’t know either, but I do know this, as long as you still want me, I’m here and we’ll figure it out together, ok?” He waited for her nod, then continued, “If I’ve learned anything over this last month, it’s that not talking to each other is what causes all the problems. And before you say it, I know that I started it. Me not telling you what was going on after the coronation, that’s on me. I promise from this moment on to tell you the absolute truth about everything, but I need the same from you. You can’t assume that you know what I’m thinking or how I’m feeling, if you have doubts, questions, please, please Riley, I’m begging you, tell me, ask me! I can’t set the record straight if I don’t know there’s an issue, ok?”

She looked up at him, there was pleading, and anguish etched on every feature. She swallowed thicky, willing herself not to cry again and nodded.

“Ok, on that note, I should probably tell you something.”

“What?” She asked warily.

“Uh….I…sort of told Drake that he should pursue you, or at least, be honest with you about his feelings because the decision to act on that or not should be yours, not his. Before you get mad at me again, I didn’t tell him that to get rid of you, that’s the last thing I want, but in the moment, I was worried that you might want to be with him and I didn’t want you to end up with me but regretting it because the person you really wanted was off limits but Riley-“ his voice hitched a little and he paused for a moment.

“But what Liam?”

“I would still marry you, under any circumstances that you would have me. Is that…selfish of me?”

Riley’s head was spinning, “You…basically gave Drake permission-“

“Riley! You have to understand. I’m so helplessly in love with you that I would give anything and everything to make you happy! I don’t think you have a fraction of a clue about the lengths I would go to just to make you smile. I want to give you the world. I want to give you whatever you want, even if,” his voice hitched a little again, “even what you want is Drake.”

“But how would that make you feel, Liam?” She questioned softly.

He blinked at her, tears standing in his eyes, “It would break me. But I’d be broken if that’s what it takes to make you happy.”

Jesus Christ, how can anyone truly be this selfless? What kind of a fool would I be to walk away from this man?

She shook her head and whispered, “I’m pretty sure I don’t deserve you.”

“Ha! I’m the one that doesn’t deserve you.” He pulled her close again and held her against his chest, swaying to music that only existed in his head.

They stood that way for several minutes, clinging to each other as if for dear life. Then he reluctantly pulled away. He leaned his forehead against hers and told her, “I’m going to send you back to the train now, only because I have to, not because I want to. I will be counting every second until I see you again. Tomorrow we’ll be in Paris. Meet me at the Eiffel Tower after dinner?”

She nodded as she pulled out of his embrace. “I’ll be there.”

He watched her as the guard escorted her out, she turned and gave him once last look over her shoulder as she went through the door. She blew him a kiss and he pretended to catch it.

After she was gone, he pulled a ring box out of his pocket and sat for a while, staring at it. It had been in his possession since the night of the coronation. It was his mother’s ring, soon to be Riley’s he hoped. Today hadn’t been the right time. She was too conflicted; he could see that.

He had let Madeleine pick a ring from among the many in the palace collection. None of those mattered. This one did. He would only give it to the woman he loved. It would be worn by Riley, or no one at all.

[karahalloway]

(Un)Common Attraction: Chapter 23 - A Bitter Aftertaste

Series: TRR (following the events of Book 1, with some changes)

Pairing: Drake Walker x OC (Harper Gale)

Rights belong to Pixelberry, most characters and some dialogue belong to them.

Book Synopsis: Harper Gale is a small-town girl working as a waitress at a seedy New York dive bar. After a chance encounter with nobility sees her jetting halfway around the world to compete for the hand of the Prince of Cordonia, her dream of seeing the world starts to come true sooner than she expected. But as the completion heats up, Harper quickly learns that life at court is a lot more than just pretty dresses and fancy balls, and that the polished aristocratic smiles often hide deceit. Does she have what it takes to rise above the gossip and intrigue of the social season, and beat the nobles at their own games? And, more importantly, does she actually want to become the queen of a small European country? Or will her heart have other ideas?

Masterlist: (Un)Common Attraction

Chapter Summary: It’s the first day of the Apple Blossom Festival and Harper has some uncomfortable conversations... and makes a plan.

Word Count: 4,300

Rating/Warnings: M (swearing)

Please read: Author’s Note

Also available on Wattpad.

Chapter 23 - A Bitter Aftertaste

"Harper... Wake up!"

"...ngh..."

"We're here!"

Rousing myself with some difficulty from my nap, I squint blearily out the window of our customary limo.

The past week had been gruelling, and I had collapsed into bed after midnight each day, only be woken again at the crack of dawn the following morning to begin another seemingly never-ending round of lessons covering everything from the correct utensil to use during each course of a ten-course dinner to how to bake a delectable apple pie, Cordonian-style. To make matters worse, even though I ended up exhausted at the end of each day, both physically and mentally, I had still had trouble falling asleep, my mind running in circles about how to deal with Drake and Christian.

But as we draw up to where we would be spending the next couple of weeks, I cannot help but brighten slightly as I admire the romantic milieu of our surroundings. In contrast to the Royal Palace, which was stately and opulent, Applewood Manor was the definition of European country chic. The pale sandstone façade of the building was wreathed in climbing roses, curving elegantly around Tudor-style paned-glass windows. Manicured hedges lined the long gravel driveway, and on the hills overlooking the estate marched rows and rows of apple trees in perfectly straight lines.

"It's gorgeous..." I breathe as our car pulls to a stop. "This puts even Downton Abbey to shame."

"While I would not normally approve of references to tacky American television, I have looked into this Downton Abbey and I will admit that I was pleasantly surprised that you would choose to spend your time watching something so poignant and educational."

I scrape my jaw off the floor of the limo with some difficulty. "You...you do realise that it's just a story... not a documentary."

"Of course. But even fictional tales can serve as useful vehicles to convey important messages and information. Take the Greek myths, for instance. They teach us that you must respect your elders, control your emotions and do not try to escape your fate, all of which are valuable life-lessons."

"Now I know where you get your oh-so-modern value system from..." I mutter under my breath as I exit the limo.

"But enough chit-chat," declares Bertrand, stepping out of the vehicle as well. "The first event of the Apple Blossom Festival will start shortly, and we have preciously little time to get you settled in your room before making your presentable for the press. Do you have your outfit to hand?"

"Yes," I reply, grabbing my small wheely suitcase from the trunk. It held the clothes that I would be wearing for the day, together with a small bag of make-up essentials so I would not have to waste time rummaging through the entirety of my luggage when we arrived.

"In that case, you best hurry inside and get changed. Maxwell will escort you to the private part of the orchard for the apple tasting once you're ready. I will meet you there once all our belongings have been unloaded."

"Do we really need all this stuff?" I ask, watching a dozen valets hard at work carrying the million and one trunks and suitcases up to the manor house.

"As I said before, since we do not have the luxury of relying on the Palace boutique, or the well-stocked garment shops of the capital out here in the countryside, it is better that we come over-prepared than under."

"Yes, but did we really need to pack ten different ballgowns?" I insist. "When there is no actual ball planned?"

"It's always better to be safe than sorry..."

* * *

Thirty minutes later, I am making my way through in the Manor's private orchard, wearing the white off-the-shoulder sundress that I had picked up during my illicit outing with Drake a few weeks ago. Completing my country-inspired look were a pair of open-toed, caramel-coloured booties with a chunky heel and a wide leather belt with floral detailing which I had snagged from the boutique. I had also laid hands on a pair of dangly pearl earrings and a statement pendant necklace on a long chain.

"Hi, Harper," whispers Hana, as I join the other suitors, who are stood in the shade of an impressive apple tree. "I love your dress."

"Running unfashionably late, as always," snips Olivia by way of greeting.

"Hush!" warns Madeleine, silencing us with a wave of her hand.

Following her intent gaze, I spot the King and Queen making their way through the assembled crowd of nobles and journalists, each of them carrying a wicker-basket of shiny red apples.

"Welcome, one and all to the annual Apple Blossom Festival!" greets the King in his booming baritone. "I always enjoy our reprieve in Cordonia's beautiful countryside, and it seems that this year, especially, we will have a bumper crop of apples!"

His announcement is greeted with enthusiastic applause.

"And, as you very well know," adds the Queen, "in keeping with tradition, myself and the ladies of the court will sample the first apples of season. Ladies, if you'd please..."

We all reach into the baskets and select an apple while the press starts snapping photos. Turning it over in my hand, I can see that it is smaller than the apples that I am used to back in the States, but the skin is such a luscious shade of red that I actually rub my finger against it to see if it had been varnished.

"I get now why it's called the Cordonian Ruby," I remark quietly to Hana.

"They do look delicious," she agrees, lifting her apply up to her nose to give it a delicate sniff.

"Oh, they are..." confirms Olivia with a smirk. "I can't wait for you to both try it. The Ruby always leaves such a memorable aftertaste."

"Make sure you look this way, ladies!" calls one of the photographers. "We'd love to capture your reactions! It's something the public love seeing every year."

"Ladies..." indicates the Queen, lifting her own apple.

We all bite into our apples in unison and the cameras start flashing wildly.

"Oh!" exclaims Hana, covering her mouth with her hand as her eyes go wide in surprise.

"Mon dieu!" agrees Kiara, nearly dropping her apple.

"Delectable!" purrs Olivia, glancing at me slyly. "Don't you agree, Harper?"

"Definitely... memorable," I wheeze, forcing myself to swallow the nauseatingly acidic bite I had just taken, trying to fight back the tears that had formed in the corners of my eyes.

"How are you finding your Cordonian Ruby, Lady Harper?" calls a reporter.

"It certainly has...character!" I remark, drawing chuckles from the crowd.

"The first crop of the season always has a definite bite to it," smiles Madeleine. "I rather like the taste, personally," she adds, taking another bite, the cameras snapping eagerly.

"Well, it looks like our ladies enjoyed their applies," observes the King with a smile. "Before we all disperse, I'd like to extend a special thank you to our apple growers for preserving our venerable traditions, especially those who labour here on the Applewood estate. Your hard work and dedication helped put Cordonia on the apple farming map and I could not be more proud of your achievements this year!"

"And with that... Happy Apply Blossom Festival!" adds the Queen. "Please, feel free to pick as many apples as you would like. I can also heartily recommend a stroll through the Japanese gardens – the apple blossoms are truly magnificent this year."

The crowd starts to break up, but Olivia, Madeleine and I find ourselves surrounded by reporters, who want to know our thoughts about Applewood, the Cordonian Ruby and where we stand with Christian.

After what seems like an interminable length of time, during which the press corps seem more interested in my answers than those of the others, much to Olivia's and Madeleine's annoyance, the reporters finally disband.

"That was... certainly informative," muses Madeleine, studying me as we begin making our way across the orchard. "Lady Harper, for a commoner, you seem to have a real connection with the press."

"Oh," I blush, her comment catching me off-guard. "Thanks."

"I only hope you can keep it up without any mishaps," she replies with an angelic smile. "Some women simply can't handle the pressure of constantly keeping up appearances."

"Well, I certainly can," interjects Olivia imperiously. "So, I wouldn't get too comfortable, if I were you. The press can be so fickle in their affections, after all..."

"Oh, I agree," purrs Madeleine. "One's fortunes can change so quickly, especially given what's at stake. I just hope you can keep up, my dears."

She saunters off, leaving Olivia fuming.

"Bertrand was not kidding," I muse. "Angelic on the outside, Frank Underwood on the inside," referring to Kevin Spacey's character from House of Cards... not that Olivia probably had any idea of what I was talking about. These nobles were seriously missing out on some great TV, not to mention important pop-culture references...

"She has some nerve," she hisses. "Swanning in half-way through the season as if this competition was already decided in her favour. But if she thinks she can nab Christian from under my nose, she has another thing coming!"

"Does Christian even like her?" I ask. "I've only seen him talking to her once..."

Olivia scoffs. "Please... Madeleine is a cold, hard bitch."

"Whereas you're a warm and fuzzy one?"

"Let me put it this way," replies Olivia with a sly smile. "Christian likes women who have some passion... some fire to them, who challenge him. Madeleine is not his type, at all. He would not choose her in a million years."

"Then why are you so threatened by her?"

Olivia glares at me angrily. "Because she is a manipulative snake! She has been trying to get her grubby little hands onto the crown for years and she thought she had won when she was chosen at the end of last year's season. Oh, you should've seen the look on her face when Leo announced his abdication!"

"You have nothing to worry about then," I reply. "Christian told me that he was not interested in a marriage of convenience. He wants to spend his life with someone he actually cares about."

"He told you that, huh?" asks Olivia, her eyes narrowing dangerously. "You two... talk a lot then?"

"Not recently," I admit. "You kind of monopolised him in Lythikos, and I haven't actually seen that much of him over the past couple of weeks. But if you are serious about him, then go for it. I'm not going to stand if your way. I care about Christian, but I don't want to be queen."

"Hah! That is the biggest load of horse shite I've ever heard! Who doesn't want to be queen?"

"Maybe someone who just wants to live a normal life without the constant posturing and manoeuvrings of court life," I retort.

"Have we been spending a bit too much time with Drake?" She laughs when she catches my glare. "Oh, please... the two of you have hardly been subtle, sneaking off every chance you get. If anything, you two deserve each other!"

"We're not—"

"But I'm warning you..." she hisses, leaning in close. "If I find out that the two of you are just pretending to be all baby-eyed for each other in some kind of tasteless commoner plot to make Christian fall into your arms out of jealousy, then I will come down on you with all the wrath of House Nevrakis!"

Eyes glinting dangerously, she turns on her heel and stomps off, leaving me staring at her retreating back with my mouth hanging open.

"Harper!" cries Maxwell from behind me. "Err... you okay?"

"Honestly? I have no idea... Had a very strange conversation with Olivia just now..."

"In my experience, every encounter with Olivia is a strange one," admits Maxwell. "Most of the time I am not sure whether I will make it to the end of a conversation alive and in full possession of all my body parts."

"HBO definitely missed a casting opportunity with her in Game of Thrones..." I remark. "She would've made a great Cersei."

"No kidding! Anyway, Bertrand gave me strict instructions to escort you to the Japanese gardens so you could nab some time with Christian."

"Of course he did..." I sigh. "Lead the way then."

As we make our way through the orchard, I catch the sound of raised voices. Pulling to a stop, I scan the immediate vicinity and spot Bertrand, face livid, arguing with one of the reporters a few trees away.

"Hey, isn't that Ana de Luca from Trend magazine?" I ask Maxwell, grabbing the sleeve of his jacket to catch his attention.

"I-I guess so. I don't know the reporters as well as you do."

"But that's my point! What is Bertrand doing talking to a reporter in the first place? That's normally my job..."

"No idea," shrugs Maxwell. "Bertrand doesn't let me get involved with House Beaumont stuff. He thinks I'd just screw it up."

I watch Bertrand jab his finger accusingly at the reporter before stomping off, while Ana pulls a pack of cigarettes out of her purse and lights one up.

"Looks like she's alone," I observe. "Let's go find out what all that was about."

I had a sneaking suspicion, but I wanted to be certain.

"I'm not sure Bertrand would appreciate us nosing around in his affairs."

"Hey," I reply, fixing him with a serious look. "You're part of House Beaumont too, aren't you?"

"Yeah..."

"And so am I, technically. I know Bertrand likes to keep a tight handle on things, but what if Ana has discovered something about your brother or House Beaumont that is potentially significant...and damaging? Wouldn't you want to know what it is? So, you can help your brother through it?"

That last part was not 100% genuine on my part, but I was not going to pass up on this opportunity to go snooping around Bertrand's dirty laundry, especially if it would provide a lead on who was behind the bachelor party photos.

Maxwell eyes me uncertainly before letting out an explosive sigh. "You're right... We should at least try to talk to the reporter lady."

"That's the spirit!"

We make our way over to where Ana's stood, taking a long draw on her cigarette.

Catching sight of us, her perfectly plucked eyebrows rise above the rim of her Versace sunglasses. "Lady Harper... and Lord Maxwell. What a pleasant surprise... Did you want to add to your earlier comments?

"Not exactly..." I reply. "We couldn't help but overhear you and Bertrand just now and we were hoping you could shed some light on what the two of you were discussing so... passionately."

Ana's lips curve into a thin smile. "Straight to the point, as always. I do like that about you, Lady Harper." Taking another long pull on her cigarette, she crosses her arms over her Chanel suit. "Let's just say that certain information has come to my attention concerning House Beaumont that the Duke does not want publicised."

"And what information would that be?"

Ana looks at us in surprise. "Do you really not know?"

"I have a couple of ideas," I reply. "But I would love to hear it from you."

"It concerns House Beaumont's finances," she replies, tapping her cigarette with a manicured finger.

Damn... I was really hoping it would be the photos.

"Since you are one of the Prince's favourites," she continues, "and could very well become our next queen, the people have the right to know that your sponsors are so heavily in debt that I am surprised that they still have a roof over their heads."

"You can't!" exclaims Maxwell. "It would ruin our house's reputation."

"Well, the Duke should have managed his finances better then, don't you think?" shrugs Ana. "And anyway... the people love a good riches-to-rags story even more than a rags-to-riches one. I cannot afford not to print this piece."

"So much for journalistic integrity," I mutter.

"I beg your pardon?"

"You just admitted that you would be willing to destroy one of Cordonia's noble houses for the sake of good story! You are no better than those desperate paparazzi who will do anything to get a sleazy front-page feature, without giving a moment's thought to how people are going to be affected by the fall-out. You should be ashamed of yourself!"

Ana regards me for a long moment, her thoughts concealed behind her dark shades. "I suppose I can delay the piece until after the Prince has picked his bride."

Maxwell's eyes widen. "You... you mean it?"

"But you owe me one," she adds, finishing off her cigarette and extinguishing it on the trunk of a nearby tree.

"You can have an exclusive interview with me, if you want," I offer.

"I will consider it," she replies stiffly. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a deadline to meet."

"Harper, I have no idea how to thank you!" gushes Maxwell as Ana saunters off.

He wraps me suddenly into a bone-crushing bear hug.

"Can't...breathe..." I gasp.

"Oh... sorry," he says with an apologetic smile, loosening his hold on me. "But I really am grateful. I...I don't think I would've been able to do what you just did."

"Isn't that what friends are for?"

"Not sure," he admits. "Never had anyone do something like that for me before."

"Really?" I ask in surprise. "I find that hard to believe..."

"I'm not having a go at Christian or Drake," clarifies Maxwell. "They're good friends and all, but I just... normally try to sort everything out by myself."

"Well, you shouldn't have to," I reply, laying a hand on his arm. "Friendship is a two-way street, after all."

"Thanks. I'll keep that in mind." He drops an arm around my shoulders and gives me an affectionate squeeze. "Now, let's get you to the gardens before Bertrand has my head!"

He leads me quickly through the rest of the orchard to a high stone wall. Opening the wooden gate, he ushers me inside, and I am transported to another world.

Someone had gone to great lengths (and expense!) to create an authentic-looking Japanese garden, complete with a dainty wooden bridge that spanned a bubbling brook.

"This... this is beautiful!" I breathe in wonder, watching the delicate apple blossoms sway in the breeze.

"I don't see Christian," notes Maxwell, scanning the procession of nobles who are making their leisurely way around the gardens.

"It's alright," I reply. "I'm sure he's just busy making his rounds."

"I'll take a look around."

As Maxwell walks off, I take the opportunity to explore the gardens on my own. Walking down one of the sunken stone paths that leads to an elegant gazebo, I close my eyes to breathe in the sweet scent of the thousands and thousands of apple blossoms and listen to the happy chirping of the birds as they hop from branch to branch.

Opening my eyes, I spot a familiar figure staring forlornly into the dark waters of a koi pond in the shadow of the gazebo.

I try to turn around without disturbing him, but he somehow senses my presence.

"Harper!" exclaims Christian, catching sight of me. "What a pleasant surprise! I thought I was quite alone here..."

"I... I didn't mean to disturb you," I reply, brushing my hair behind my ear. "You look like you have a lot on your mind."

"You could say that..." he sighs.

"The conversation with your dad didn't go so great?"

He smiles at me sadly. "It's not something I can talk about... at this time anyway. But trust me, if I could, you would be one of the first people I'd want to tell."

Taking a deep breath, I say, "Christian, there's someth—"

"Can I ask you something?" he asks suddenly, his green eyes intent.

"Err... sure."

"Do you... do you think you could handle being queen of Cordonia?"

I gulp. It's as if he had somehow read my mind... and it was a bit of a disturbing feeling.

"I need you to be honest with me."

"Are you sure you want to hear my answer?" I ask pointedly. "Because you are not going to like it."

"I'm sure."

I take a steadying breath. "Alright. In all honesty, I don't know... and this is something that I have been wrestling with since I joined this competition. On one hand, I agree with you that I probably have certain qualities that would make me a good queen. But, like I told you back in Lythikos, I am not sure whether I am cut out for life at court."

"But you've been performing so admirably!"

"That's exactly it!" I cry. "I'm performing! Constantly! For the Beaumonts, for the press, for the entire court. And honestly, it's exhausting... And I just know that it's only going to get worse once you become king. If I am chosen as your queen, I fear that I will cease to exist as a person... as an individual, and will simply become some kind of remote figurehead living in a lofty high castle."

"Harper," says Christian gently, closing the distance between us to take my hands in his. "I know you are a free spirit at heart – it's one of the things I love about you. And I appreciate that becoming queen would be a big change for you, especially since you didn't grow up in this life. But the very fact that you are an outsider is one of your strongest assets because it lets you see things that others do not – to think outside the box. I think Cordonia would be lucky to have you as their monarch... I would be lucky to have you."

"Thank you..." I mutter. "For having such unshakable faith in me. But I'm not sure I have that same faith in myself."

"I know you do... even if it may not feel like it now," he replies with a warm smile. "But I will not pressure you into a decision now. We agreed that we would wait until the end of the social season, and I will stand by our arrangement... in the unwavering hope that you may change your mind."

"I'm sorry..." I sigh. "I know this wasn't the answer you were hoping for."

His eyes search mine. "You know, I've been trying to make Drake into a duke... or at least a count since he got back from university. To give him some kind of official position at court and a seat on my Privy Council when I become King. But his answer has always been the same as yours. So even though I admit to feeling more than a bit disappointed, I cannot say that I am necessarily surprised. The two of you are more alike than you realise..."

"I—"

"And before you object," he continues with a wry smile, seeing the look on my face, "please know that I meant that last part as a compliment. There is no one I trust more than Drake, and your forthrightness is something that I treasure... given that many of my courtiers have a regrettable habit of being less than fully honest with me."

"Christian, I need to—"

"Harper!" cries Maxwell suddenly from behind me. "Hana said she saw you wander off this way... And I see you've found Christian!"

"I hope we didn't interrupt anything..." adds Hana, appearing behind Maxwell.

"Not at all," replies Christian with a gallant smile. "And in any case, I suppose we should head back to the main part of the garden. I've been hiding out here for too long and need to make my rounds before my next engagement."

"Oh? I didn't think anything else was happening after this," I say as we retrace our steps along the stone path. "But the Beaumonts do have an adorable habit of forgetting to tell me about the important things."

Maxwell has the good graces to blush as I fix him with a meaningful look.

"Don't worry, it's nothing official, but you're welcome to join me if you want. I'm meeting Drake after this for a drink... cheer him up a bit."

"Why? What's wrong with him?"

Christian glances around furtively, as if expecting his friend to jump out from behind one of the apple trees at any moment. "Please don't tell him that I told you – he'd never forgive me – but today is Drake's birthday."

"And he's... depressed about that?"

This was not the answer I was expecting, but I was not actually surprised that Drake would want to keep something like that a secret... Heck, he hadn't even wanted to tell me his surname!

"It's not something he particularly looks forward to. He usually spends the day hiding out in his room. If I'm lucky, I'm able to convince him to have a drink with me. But that's about as far as it goes."

"We tried throwing him a party once with cake, balloons, champagne tower, the whole shebang," adds Maxwell, "but that only made him grumpier."

"Well, I'm not surprised!" I exclaim. "Have you met the guy? What about him screams over-the-top birthday party?"

"Are you saying that you have a better idea?" asks Christian, raising a brow quizzically.

"Maybe," I reply, pulling out my phone and tapping on the internet browser icon. "He may not want a fancy party, but we cannot just let him mope around his room on his birthday, or drink alone. It's the one day of the year when everyone deserves to feel just a tiny bit special, so let's surprise him by doing something that he would actually enjoy."

"I'm all ears," grins Christian.

"You had me at 'surprise'" admits Maxwell.

"I'm in," nods Hana.

"Alright, here's the plan..."

The story continues in Chapter 24 - Cheap Tricks

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[sfb123]

A Taste of Cordonia: Part 5

The Royal Romance Book 1, Chapters 11 & 12

Tags: @txemrn @texaskitten30 @kingliam2019 @anjanettexcordonia @twinkleallnight @mile9213 @kittypryde-bipride @motorcitymademadame @kat-tia801 @bebepac @gkittylove99 @khoicesbyk @jessiembruno @queenrileyrose @athena-penrose @pixie88 @eadanga @iaminlovewithtrr @hopelessromanticmonie @annarenee355 @burnsoslow @shewillreadyou​ @imturaxamara @gabesmommie1130 @cordoniaqueensworld @hopefulmoonobject

(Let me know if you’d like to be added or removed)

I took some time away from A Taste of Cordonia to focus on my fics, and my real life, but I’m back baby! And now, we’re headed to Applewood Manor for apples, apples, and more apples. It’s the Apple Blossom Festival! 🍎🍎🍎🍎

Apple-mania starts with a taste of the first apples from the seasons Cordonian Ruby crop.

I mean, they really make these apples sound appealing. I love bitter, I love sour, and I love being nauseated! FYI - that was sarcasm, I don’t love any of those things. Here’s the deal with me and apples, i have a solid month in the fall where I’m all in with apples. I throw on a flannel and some leggings like a real basic bitch, I go to an orchard, pick some apples, and have a hell of a time. 30 days later, I’m sick of them and don’t want anything to do with them. I don’t know if I actually like them, so much as I get caught up in the seasonal hype. I guess if I were to be the Queen of Cordonia, I’d probably have to eat a couple more apples a year. Apparently, also significantly more horrible apples than I am used to. Maybe, once I become Queen, I can pay someone to swap my Cordonian Rubies out with Red Delicious or something. Oh what a scandal that would be! 2/10

During MC’s secret rendezvous, she learns that it’s Drake’s birthday, so the gang goes out to an American Western themed bar to celebrate! MC chooses from 3 options for Drake: whiskey, a fruity drink, or something on fire.

I’m sure you’re sick of me talking about whiskey, so I’m not even going to bother. If you want to know how I feel about it, shame on you, you clearly haven’t read my previous reviews. Stop here, go to my masterlist, and catch up! It’s ok, I’ll wait.

(#FreeBritney)

Let’s get to the fruity drink, aka my drink. I’m not a big drinker, but when I do drink, I like my alcohol to not taste like alcohol. My first choice is sweet, chocolaty drinks, but I won’t turn down something fruity, especially if it’s frozen. I swear, I belong on a tropical island somewhere. 8/10

So, we’re lighting drinks on fire now? That’s a thing?

So, I’ve never actually seen a flaming drink in person. It doesn’t seem particularly safe or enticing. Also, I looked it up, and the thing that makes it catch fire is the high-proof alcohol. I feel like that means the drink tastes very much like alcohol, so I’d probably hate it, but it looks cool as fuck. 3/10

The next day, before heading out to the festival, MC tells Bertrand and Maxwell about her apple-tastic breakfast.

That’s...a lot of apples. Individuality, sure, not too bad, but all at once. Wow. And what did she put the butter on? The tart? Did she mix it into the cider? Maybe she just ate it straight up with a spoon? On, let’s break this down:

I’ve never had an apple tart, but I looked it up, and the ingredients seem like something I’d be down with. It seems kind of like an open face apple pie. Or like a more chic apple pie for fancy people. 6/10

As with the whiskey, I won’t bore you with another apple cider review. I will say, it strikes me as a weird breakfast choice. Apple juice seems like it’s more appropriate. Then again, I’m not 4, so maybe not. 10/10

Apple butter, this is an interesting one. The only time I’ve ever had flavored butter was at Texas Road House (that butter...those rolls...*chef’s kiss*). I’d be willing to give it a shot, I don’t hold high hopes for enjoying it though. 5/10

Finally, the suitors split off into two teams and compete in an apple pie baking contest.

Another repeat review. You’ve heard my schpiel about apple pie, and my dad baking the best ones ever and so on and so on, so this is another positive review...unless you let Olivia sabotage the other team, then that shit is nasty, and you’re a dirty rotten cheater. 9/10

[rickchung]

Nightshade Restaurant x Yaletown.

Spearheaded by the Sattva Hospitality team and Montreal-based Canadian-Cambodian Executive Chef Chanthy Yen—personal chef to the Prime Minister and his family—the contemporary eatery feels intimately hip and fresh with its contemporary design.

“Manhattan”: espresso martini drink special.

“Big Apple Sour”: Applewood Smoked Woodford Reserve bourbon whiskey, Granny Smith syrup, simple syrup, lemon juice, and red wine float.

“Last Tango in Paris” cocktail: Beefeater gin, Lillet, rosemary syrup, lime juice, champagne, and cucumber bitters.

Turmeric agnolotti with Blue Heron cheeses tossed in a sauce of fermented chilli arrabiata, confit tomatoes, shaved parmesan, peppercorn, and toasted kasha.

Mista lava lava roll: sake marinated yuba, yam tempura, heart of palm and gochujang crema.

[felassan]

Food and drink lore from The Last Court

Thedosian food and drink lore details that come from Dragon Age: The Last Court. Some of it is Orlesian or even specifically Seraultine. Some of it has its origins in other parts of Thedas and some of it is surely fairly universal. I had been working on this for a while because I just wanted to gather the things of this nature that are mentioned in the game together somewhere as a resource; it’s coincidentally a bit more pertinent now with the looming TLC deactivation. If I come across more I’ll update the post. Cut for length.

Drinks

Serault cider

Spiced wine: served steaming warm

Amaranthine red wine: notably sweet

Southern wine: notably rich and bitter. black as pitch

Red wine: rich. good for accompanying venison

Serault yellow wine: the Elegant Abbess’ own vintage from her small vineyard at the Abbey of the Bans in Serault. I wonder if this is akin to Vin jaune in our world. The Abbess trades her vineyard’s product for other, “more exotic” wines from across Orlais. She’s charmingly modest about her own vintage

Alyons black wine: Alyons is a smaller but better-regarded neighbor of Serault. The vintage in 9:41 was terrible, so casks of the year ’38 were what characters preferred to drink at one point

Celestine black wine: in Orlais, the region between Lake Celestine and the shores of the Waking Sea is known as “The Heartlands”. The Heartlands is a rich place of vineyards and gilded marble estates. This wine costs a fortune. Divine Justinia was fond of it. In one instance it is served in a fountain, from which drinkers filled their cups from the splashing sheets. This fountain took a pair of skilled hands to make, work which cost good gold to have done

Wines (other): there are references to “strong” wine, “sharp” wine, wine “from the sun-brushed south” and “bitter black wine”

Fereldan whiskey

Beer: Seraultine peasants sometimes drink “watered beer” to stave off summer heat. Presumably this refers to watered-down beer

Black tea flavored with juniper: fierce, fiery, insistent, with an undertone of juniper. Supposedly a sovereign remedy for hair loss and perfect for celebrating providential occasions

Lattenfluss tea: eye-watering. The Lattenfluss is a river in the Anderfels. As long as only one cup is drunk per week, it’s “very unlikely” to kill the consumer. According to wild rumors this tea is brewed with lyrium. Gifted in a tiny pouch to the Marquis by the Purveyor of Teas

Fires of Change tea: a unique tea that was offered as a coded message to the Divine. It was presented in a lacquered box, the top of which was inlaid with a red flame symbol (a sign used by revolutionaries)

Old nameless Tevinter tea: a nameless tea that was drunk in “Tevinter of old”. Oily, blue, swimming with leaves, smells like damp wormy earth, unpleasant taste, caustic. It causes the throat to burn after drinking it. Sharing this mysterious tea with another binds the two drinkers together. It’s not clear whether this is just a poetic cultural custom or some kind of magical binding. In the game it was brewed in a black clay pot and served in pewter cups. The Purveyor of Teas and the Marquis drink it in the context of making a pact and entering into a business arrangement

Food

Wild boar: can be hunted in the Serault Applewoods

Deer/venison: can be hunted in the Serault Applewoods. The meat of such deer is rich and red. In one instance venison pasties are served with curls of goat’s cheese. In that instance the meat is heavy and rich, the pastry is light, and the cheese has a kick to it

Rabbit: can be hunted in the Serault Applewoods

Squirrel

Duck

Swan: in one instance brilliant gold-colored gilded swans are served in an apple blossom-white gravy made from river herring. The gilt in that instance is made of egg yolk, flour, an eastern spice and a costly handful of real gold leaf for an authentic luster

Goose: goose-fat is also used for things

Pheasant

Partridge: in one instance served simmering in a pot with sweet onions and pale beans

Cow: their tongues are sometimes eaten as well as their meat

Chicken

First Day chicken: in some areas it is custom to eat chicken on First Day. This reminds me of the tradition in some parts of our world of eating turkey (for example) for Christmas Dinner. Since this reference cropped up in TLC, I wonder if this is an Orlesian thing

Veal: in one instance galantines of veal are served in a teetering mountainous pile on a bed of steamed beans, with cubes of pickled ox-tongue. Galantine is a dish in French cuisine

Pickled ox-tongue

Black pudding

Steak

Meat pasty: venison pasties served with curls of goat’s cheese is a local specialty in Serault

Sausages: there are at least 12 different kinds. In one instance they are succulent and bursting, served popping and sizzling in a skillet as wide as a man is tall. In that instance the sausages came from the pride of the Pig-Farmer’s brood of pigs

Roast meat: in one instance a dozen carcasses skewered on a spit are turned by ten chevaliers, sweating in bright polished armor. As they turn the skin crackles as fat drips onto the flames. Cooks then come forwards with pearl-handled knives to carve steaks from the haunches

Fish

River herring: can be used to make an apple blossom-white gravy

Mussels

Eggs: can be hard-boiled. Egg yolks can be mixed with flour, an eastern spice and real gold leaf in order to gild food

Cheese: a soft variety is mentioned, a feisty variety is mentioned

Blue cheese: blue-veined, ripe

Goat’s cheese: has a kick. Served with venison pasties as a local specialty in Serault

Honey: sweet. The sisters at the Abbey of the Bans in Serault have beehives. The Marquis’ cook bakes round cakes laced with it and peppered with poppyseed

Custard

Round cakes: peppered with poppyseed and laced with honey. In Serault antlers are baked into the crusts of these cakes (since Serault heraldry includes a stag)

Porridge: eaten by peasants in Serault at mealtimes

Bread: a grainy black variety that comes in cobs is mentioned. A soft variety is mentioned. A dark variety is mentioned. A variety is eaten warm. In Serault bread is eaten by peasants at mealtimes

Pie: in one instance a great glazed pie stirs and rustles until its crust is cut open with a sword. A torrent of fifty white doves with gold rings around their legs then burst out. These doves were a symbol of the Marquis’ hope for the Divine’s peace talks at the Conclave. Servants opened the windows of the hall so the doves could escape

Gravy: an apple blossom-white variety can be made from river herring

Vegetables (various)

Sweet fruits (various): from the Serault Applewoods

Nuts: from the Serault Applewoods. Can be set upon with a nutcracker

Apples: there are references to a bitter variety and tart wood apples. Serault has orchards and apple woods

Bramble berries: in the Serault Applewoods there are bramble shrubs, meaning there could be blackberries, raspberries and/or dewberries

Barley: in Orlais, Claose is an area near Serault. Its fertile valleys are golden with barley

Corn

Flour

Pale beans

Steamed beans

Mushrooms: mushrooms grow at the edge of the forest in Serault. Field mushrooms are also harvested in Alyons

Red onion: fiery on the tongue

Sweet onion

Sweet peppers: fiery on the tongue

Antivan olives: can be served steeped in vinegar and stuffed with capers

Capers: may be served stuffed in Antivan olives steeped in vinegar

Wild fennel: harvested in Alyons

Cloves: harvested in Alyons

Black peppercorns: from Caiman Brea (west of the Silent Plains)

Poppyseeds

Vinegar

Honeysuckle

Juniper

An “eastern” spice: I’d guess from Antiva, Rivain, Seheron, Par Vollen or eastern Tevinter

Edible gold leaf: very costly

Herbs: there are “certain herbs” in the depths of the Applewoods. Could refer to culinary herbs, but in the context of the original excerpt it was most likely a reference to recreational/medical substances

Sugar cane

Notes

In Serault, the Applewoods are a region of the Tirashan forest renowned for its hunting and rich game. The Greenwood region is tamer and teems with game. The Deepwoods are further in and more dangerous, hosting more sinister creatures. These woodlands also yield sweet fruit, berries, nuts and herbs.

As a general note, the following were all mentioned or are apparent – pig farmers, bakers, butchers, millers, granaries, vineyards, orchards, apiaries/beekeepers, fields of crops, herds of livestock, game hunting.

Orlesian nobles’ cuisine at special or important occasions is so ostentatious and over the top... pies with 50 doves sealed in, fountains of expensive wine, chevaliers in armor turning roasts on spits, edible gold leaf-covered meats. That extravagance is classic Orlais lol.

Some of the items listed are obvious (like of course inhabitants of a classic fantasy world hunt game and fish etc, just like in real-life) I know, but I wanted to include them for completion’s sake.

[goldafterglow]

The scent (cologne, body wash, sweat, etc...) for each of the above listed man's, and why you think so. 💋

A/N: This is such an interesting prompt. Thanks for the thought generator anon💕 Also I just don’t even know what weird group of boys this is, I just know that I love them :)

Also some of these are literally just from my synesthesia like I can just smell these boys’ pictures; it’s ✨mental illness love✨

Send me headcanons!

Word Count: 862 bc ig I just don’t know how headcanons are supposed to work

Warnings: bad explanations lol, mentions of death

Carrillo:

so a bitch named @glowingpena​ made me realize that apparently Carrillo does smoke even though in my memory of the show he literally never touches a cigarette but whatever, I guess he smells pretty strongly of tobacco

Carrillo smells like a Dove soap bar. Not even men’s Dove, just like a normal ass bar of Dove soap because he doesn’t need men’s soap for everyone to know he is a man of authority. Idk what they had in the 80s, but this man uses a body wash to wash off his sins - even better if you do it for him because our beautiful baby needs a reminder that touch doesn’t always mean pain - and he smells strongly of it because he uses a lot of it. So he smells like that mild cinnamon-honey scent. I feel like Carrillo doesn’t really strike me as a cologne man because there’s a good chance he’s going to be getting sweaty that day anyway, but he does clean up.

Gustavo:

smoke and tobacco we been known

Gustavo just smells expensive. He’s got a lot of money to blow, and in the same way that it is very unlikely his wrist isn’t looking icey, his shelves are lined with luxury men’s cologne. If you were to bury your face in his neck and take in a lungful, you’d get Armani and cash. Also that bitter smell of gold from his chain if you’re close enough to him.

I don’t actually know how to place the scent of wealth. Men’s cologne scents are always weird, they’ll be like ✨night sky✨  or like ✨gravity✨  or some whack ass shit.

If we want a little of my bullshitTM: he smells like bad decisions and the rocks off the side of a river where he’ll leave you and your broken heart for one reason or another (probably bc he d*es but anyways)

Javier:

smoke again, I don’t make the rules I just enforce them

He smells like cheap cologne for sure. He puts a little bit on his collar, neck, and the insides of his wrists. And maybe he does the spritz and sashay

He picks his cologne carefully though. He smells like cloves and cardamon, a scent so spicy it stings your tear ducts but it’s good. Javier cares about how he presents, he just doesn’t really care about how much he paid for it.

He also smells faintly minty, like he was chewing gum a couple of hours ago, but never a couple of minutes ago. He strikes me as the kind of person that spends a solid 5-6 minutes brushing his teeth and staring at himself in the mirror.

And he definitely smells like super shitty instant coffee. It’s all they have at the embassy, and he’d probably lose his job if he didn’t overdose on caffeine some days.

Frankie:

this baby definitely smells not like laundry detergent but like dryer sheets. He just kind of smells clean. Especially if we’re talking post Colombia. He likes keeping it a little domestic after everything he’s been through, and for him doing the laundry makes him feel human.

He smells like sugar, like barbecue sauce. I just think that’s his natural scent. Like the sweetness of the icing on a cinnamon roll and peach cobbler on a summer day.

He smells like the leather of his pilot’s seat and a little bit metallic from leaning on the outside of his helicopter (since we’ve all decided that this muffin man gives copter tours for a living)

AND HE SMELLS LIKE DOG. He definitely strikes me as a dog man, and he always has a treat or two on the inside of his jacket pocket because he just can’t say no to his buddy, so that dog treat smell comes off sometimes.

Ezra:

Okay I’m going to try to not be canon here, because canonically bitch there’s just no way this man smells good. He’s literally in that fucking space suit all the time, and he gets so sweaty and worked up from digging. And he?? doesn’t shower?? Like there’s no shower in his tent, he can’t unsuit into a lake. Noncanon thots only.

I feel like Ezra’s natural scent is strong. The way freshly cut grass can hurt your eyes because it’s just filling up your senses and your pores to the brim until you hurt - he smells intoxicating.

He smells like books. If he had the chance to, he’d definitely stock up on his favorite literature, and the scent of the pages and the ink always seems to linger on him.

Whiskey:

He smells like smoke, but not like tobacco. He smells like charcoal and hickory and applewood. He’s a wooden man, and he just gives me wood vibes, you know?

He definitely throws some cologne on, and it’s gonna be a nice bottle too. He only owns one or two scents, but he makes sure he walks out of his home smelling like twine and spurs.

The felt from his Stetson. It smells intense.

Oberyn:

I never watched Game of Thrones but this man smells like sweat and fruit.

He is constantly eating (which is not my headcanon but I saw it somewhere and it makes a lot of sense), and the sweetness of grapes and berries gets on the skin of his chest.

And you can’t tell me this man isn’t always sweating. His pheromones poison the air before he even walks in.

When he bathes he smells like gold and expensive furs. A little bit like flower petals.

Max Phillips:

this idiot owns one (1) bottle of cologne and it cost him $3.5K

he fucking does it up with that shit literally catch him rubbing it like on his navel and his forehead like he’ll put it anywhere he will get his money’s worth before he ever admits that he got conned

On the bright side, he walks around smelling like a vanilla pod and grapefruit so maybe it was worth the investment????

He’s a vampire so when he doesn’t smell like luxury parfúm he smells like body wash because he doesn’t want to smell like human flesh and blood.

if anyone wants to be tagged in headcanons you can definitely ask, I just automatically assumed no one wanted to lmao. But tbh are these headcanons or a whole ass novel i can’t seem to distinguish the two

[project-rosewood-476]

The Long Way Home

Yet another side fic for ERHIT.

I'm so sorry all I know how to do is angst.

SUMMARY: Tabby and her mom drive home the long way around after a day out. Tabby tries to have a heart-to-heart with her mom but it doesn't go as planned. Leaving Tabby more alone than she could ever imagine

The way home seemed much longer to Tabby than what she remembered—passing through trees that all looked the same with few houses in between. They were driving through the town of Applewood Creek. After this, they would be entering the town of Maplehood Creek and then...home.

Tabby scoffed at that notion. Home? Home is where your real family is. The people who loved and cared and taught and accepted you for you. The people she lives with don't do that, and they're just going back to where they live. The closest thing she had to a home and family was with her friends. But now, she doesn't even have that anymore.

She rested her head on the cool glass window with her knees pulled up to her chest, facing away from her mother, who was driving the car. The miserable child had a dull look in her once wide eyes filled with hope. The only things that brought her brief solace were the rustling of the bags of groceries in the back and the low rumble of the engine that lulled her to the long-awaited sleep.

The older woman at the wheel kept casting pitying glances at her child mixed with concern that only a mother has. She looked to be in her early 30s and looked like a much older version of Tabby. Only she was slightly on the big side and had worse bags under her eyes than Tabby does from working long hours. She wore a lime green tee shirt and ripped faded light blue jeans from years of wear and tear. She had her red-brown hair that was littered with gray strands from stress. Same wide eyes that Tabby does, only hers was green.

Her mother often liked to bring Tabby along for grocery shopping since her "loving boyfriend" repeatedly refused to let Tabby out of the house. So to attempt to make up for the lack of...everything, she tries to take her out for errands, and they go out to eat and talk. It was their weird form of bonding during her mom's limited days off and away from the house, where Tabby was slightly more relaxed. She knew that Tabby hated going home, so they took the most extended way possible back. It was the least she could do.

But that's not enough.

Tabby could feel her mother's periodic gazes on her. She knew something was wrong with Tabby. Tabby grew irritated of her mother's pity constantly on her.

"If you have something to say to me, say it," said Tabby bluntly through closed eyes.

Her mother sighed. She knew she would have this confrontation sooner or later.

"It's just that...Are you okay? I haven't seen you happy in a while. You used to smile so much and had that lightning in your eyes. I'm just worried for you," she stated slowly and awkwardly.

Tabby snorted," You haven't seen me at all in a while."

She turned to face her mother.

"And for your information, no, I'm not okay. I haven't been okay in a long, long time. Why are you asking now?"

She sighed at Tabby's bitter attitude towards her.

"Look, I know I'm not there much. I just thought that for right now, while I'm here, I could help you with what I can."

"Well, for starters, you can find someone else who is more willing to play the part of the parent who doesn't make the 12-year-old do all of the work. What? Do you think he does any of the work? No, I do the cooking, cleaning, and taking care of Adam,"

Her mother went quiet for a minute. She knew who she was referring to.

"I know that your father can be a...difficult person to live with, but he does love you. You know. He... doesn't know how to show it. He's never had a daughter before, so he doesn't know what to do. He has high expectations of you, and that's why he's so hard on you. He sees himself as a failure, and he doesn't want you to end up like him," she explained while beating around the bush.

"Love me?! LOVE ME?! HE DID THIS TO ME! HE DID ALL OF THIS TO ME!" Tabby yelled as she showed as much of the multicolored bruises and scars that she could.

" I promise you it's not just from fights at school. Now I don't know much about love, but I know you don't beat your loved ones nor don't do anything to protect them."

"It will be over with soon. Things will get better. Tomorrow is a new day-," she started.

Those phrases made Tabby snap.

"WHEN WILL IT END?! HUH?! WHAT?! YOU THINK THAT THE MOMENT I TURN 18, YOU THINK I'LL BE ABLE TO UP AND LEAVE?! DO YOU THINK THAT HE WOULD LET ME GO THAT EASILY?! IF HE'LL HAVE HIS WAY, HE'LL KEEP ME LOCKED UP IN THE APARTMENT UNTIL HE DIES! TOMORROW IS NOT A NEW DAY; IT'S THE SAME BULLSHIT DAY IN AND DAY OUT! THINGS AREN'T GETTING BETTER; IT'S GETTING WORSE! YALL ARGUE ALL THE TIME, ADAM IS STARTING TO ACT OUT NOW, AND I HAVE NO FRIENDS LEFT! I'M AT MY WITS END HERE! I CAN'T KEEP ACTING LIKE YOUR HUSBAND, HIS WIFE, ADAM'S MOTHER, STUDENT, SOLDIER, SISTER, DAUGHTER, LIVED IN CINDERELLA, LEADER, AND FRIEND! I NEED HELP!"

She was breathing heavily at her outburst, with her eyes flaming with hatred but slowly softened when she saw her mother cower and flinch a little at her yelling. Tabby realized that she was almost afraid of her and what she's capable of. Tabby knew exactly what given the events that happened towards the end of August. But the thought of her mother being afraid of her and loving her less? It was enough to make Tabby cry. She doesn't want to be seen as a monster.

Her mother sat up straight a little bit and sighed, annoyed and tiredly.

"I'm trying here. I'm trying to be a good mother. I'm sorry I'm not there often. I have to be the one to provide and put food on the table! Most of our arguments involve you; I'm trying to fight for your freedom! But I also have to do what's best for your brother, too!" she explained exasperatedly.

"Then try harder!" Tabby snapped back

"WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME TABBY?!," she yelled.

"EITHER MAKE HIM TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND DO HIS FUCKING JOB AS A PARENT OR DROP-KICK HIS ASS TO THE CURB. OR HAVE SOME BACKBONE AND STAND UP FOR YOURSELF AND YOUR KIDS!" yelled Tabby in disbelief that her mom would ask a stupid question like that.

"YOU KNOW EXACTLY WHY WE CAN'T DO THAT!"

They both looked at each other for a moment before sighing in defeat and saying the answer at the same time.

"Adam"

Even though the abuse wasn't good for Adam to be around, it was still stability, even if it was a nasty form of stability. Tabby would rather have Adam around what he's used to instead of getting rid of his dad, which isn't fair to him and having her mom bring in another man who could be just as worse as her stepdad. She was willing to do anything to keep Adam on a good path and provide some stability for him. So he doesn't end up like her. They both don't have the luxury to be selfish.

"You're so selfish; you know that? And you should at least hold some gratitude towards your dad. He saved you and us, and he made us better. We have a better lifestyle now," she scolded her.

Tabby fucking lost it.

"I'M SELFISH?! I'M SELFISH?! I HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF THE HOUSE, ADAM, HIM, AND YOU! I ALSO MANAGE AND TAKE CARE OF THE WELL-BEING OF MY FRIENDS WHILE I HAD THEM! I KEPT THEM ALIVE! AND I ALSO HELP OUT THE OTHER KIDS AT ROSEWOOD WHEN I CAN AFFORD IT! I AM NEGLECTING MYSELF SAVE FOR MY GRADES TO MEET MY RESPONSIBILITIES THAT YOU BOTH REFUSE TO TAKE! BUT SURE, CALL ME SELFISH BECAUSE I DON'T WANT TO GET BEAT FOR EVERY LITTLE THING I DO, AND I WANT MORE FREEDOM INSTEAD OF BEING TREATED AS A SLAVE IN THE APARTMENT AND WANTING WHAT'S BEST FOR ADAM! YOU'RE THE SELFISH ONE! YOU NEVER DO ANYTHING TO STAND UP FOR YOUR KIDS. I HAVE TO DO THAT FOR ADAM AND MYSELF! THERE IS SO MUCH MORE THAT GOES ON AT HOME, BUT YOU EITHER IGNORE IT OR YOU'RE NEVER HERE BECAUSE YOU'RE TOO BUSY HIDING AT WORK FOR AS LONG AS YOU CAN LIKE THE BITCH ASS COWARD THAT YOU ARE-," Tabby felt as a sharp crack against her cheek. She looked at her mom with disbelief that she hit her.

The woman was crying as they pulled into the driveway and parked.

"Tabby, I'm- I'm sorry...I-I just wanted you to stop…."

Tabby began to unbuckle and opened the car door hurriedly.

"No. Great talk, mom. I can always count on you for anything now, can I?" Tabby said sarcastically as she slammed the car door and opened the other one, and slamming it before carrying the groceries up the stairs. The older woman just cried at the steering wheel.

Tabby entered the apartment. Her stepdad got out of his chair to see what was up. He just stopped in his tracks to analyze Tabby. Her eyes were red and puffy, and she had a red blotch on her cheek. He could feel the anger radiating off of her; He just raised an eyebrow at her expecting an explanation. Tabby paid him no mind and began to busy herself with putting away the food. She didn't owe him an answer. Not yet anyway.

Tabby's mother came through the door a few minutes later. She looked distraught, and her eyes were red and puffy as well. She hugged her boyfriend for comfort, and he led her into their room to talk about what happened. That's just great. Tabby sighed. Already she knew that this was going to be a long night with more fights and beatings while she struggles to explain why she acted out the way she did. And then they would both demand an apology from her which she'll have no choice but to give if she wants to go to bed at a reasonable time. Nothing ever changes. Her mother yet again chose him and Adam over her, and she was left to fend for herself.

That left Tabby more alone than ever before.

[arguscallous]

Basil and copper and umami

Honey and ginger and wine

Long lavender scented morning stretching into bitter blue stainless steel evening, capped by melancholy moonlit night

Bread rising so slowly, expanding on its cold kitchen counter top, knead and rest and knead and rest and knead and rest and need and need and

Whiskey sours made with sugar cubes turned to sharp crystal sipped over one way conversations on the never-ringing ever-buzzing phone

Splattered acrylic paint portraits, profiles permanently titled "mutation," "transition," "experimentation," spawn stains swimming across fabric in eyes on every bit of flesh the filth can reach

Lemon and nutmeg and smoke

Applewood and cinnamon and cream

[helenedavtremont]

date: somewhere between april 5-10 idk location: applewood farm + coming up roses spring flower festival time: afternoon status: open (0/4) @crescentstarters​

She isn’t hiding. Nor is she entertaining the idea that she wants to be chased. Crescent Harbour was a place where nothing happened, and that was exactly what the blonde wanted for herself after a whirlwind winter: nothing. She wanted the nothingness of quiet, the nothingness of having not else to distract her from her work and how she felt. Still, bitterness sits at the back of her mind and makes her nauseous like bile at the back of her tongue if she thinks too long on the topic. But there’s beauty in distractions, and today’s distraction was a quiet, simple sort of beauty in front of her. 

She’d been building a bouquet in her arms, looking between the different containers to decide between different sprays of flora and greenery. What she lacked so far, though, was the focus of the bouquet. Roses, maybe? Peonies? Lilies? Her fingers trail over each of them gently, undecided as she looks towards the other, pointing towards the flowers: “I can’t choose. Pick one for me?”