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literaryvein-reblogs · 9 days ago

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Writing Notes: Hair Types & Haircuts

Hair Type - refers to the attributes that make up your natural hair’s appearance and feel.

Your hair type depends on genetics, which dictates the following factors:

Dryness: As with skincare, moisture is essential for your hair’s health. Dry hair produces less oil on average. Some hairs might be greasier than others, especially after physical activity, and produce more natural oils. Special shampoos and deep-conditioning products can help with oil buildup to dry out and temper your hair’s oil production. You can also use serums or leave-in conditioners to boost hydration.

Texture: In terms of hair texture, the four main hair looks are straight, wavy, curly, and coily. Genetics can determine the shape of your hair follicles, which results in one or a combination of these different textures.

Thickness: Thick hair means your scalp produces hair in a higher density, while thin hair means there is more significant negative space between each hair follicle. Thin hair is not always a sign of hair loss or unhealthy hair; some people naturally have fine hair.

Types of Hair

The hair care industry categorizes hair into four types plus additional subcategories.

Knowing your hair type can help you choose mousses, hair masks, and other care products that can help strengthen your cuticles and improve hair strand health to prevent breakage.

Learn what defines each type and how they differ from one another:

Type 1: Straight hair, type 1, features round follicles, grows flat, and lies flat on the scalp. Type 1A hair is straight and fine, while type 1B has more volume and might hold more curls. Type 1C is thick and coarse, which can lead to frizzing.

Type 2: Wavy hair, type 2, has oblong follicles and grows in a slight zigzag pattern. Wavy hair can frizz in heat and humidity, making it look even curlier than usual. Type 2A wavy hair is fine and forms an “S” shape when it’s dry. Type 2B features waves at the mid-length, while type 2C is thicker and prone to extreme frizziness.

Type 3: Curly hair, type 3, has oval-shaped follicles that produce tighter curls than those of wavy hair. Curl patterns will vary in shape and size. Type 3A hair features loose, spiral curls, whereas type 3B has slightly tighter springs. Type 3C describes tight curls with a thicker texture.

Type 4: Coily hair is Type 4. Coily hair features coils, a tightly packed curl type resembling ringlets or corkscrews. These tight curls lend a heavier density to hair. Type 4A has defined coils, while type 4B has a crimped pattern. Type 4C is coily hair with a thick texture.

Hair Porosity

Hair porosity describes hair’s ability to absorb moisture.

The float test measures this porosity.

After brushing your hair, remove a single strand and place it in a bowl of warm water to see if it has low, medium, or high porosity:

Low porosity: If the hair strand floats in the water, it has a low porosity level, meaning it does not retain moisture well and needs hair care products for extra care. Avoid using oils, which will sit on top of the strands and not absorb well.

Medium porosity: If your hair sinks to the bottom, it has medium porosity. It takes in moisture easily and retains it fairly well. Your hair could benefit, if you desire, from the use of medium-weight products that will help it better maintain moisture.

High porosity: If your strand of hair sinks to the bottom of the water, it has high porosity. It takes in moisture easily but might not be able to retain it for long. Use deep conditioners and repair treatments, such as hair masks.

Tips for Styling Different Hair Types

Each hair type requires special hair care and styling products. Ask your hairstylist for their recommendations, and follow these tips:

Dry your hair type correctly. If you have straight hair, dry it before bed and use natural hair products to keep frizz at bay. You can blow-dry wavy hair to give it a fuller look and style it in the direction of your natural wave pattern. For curly hair, avoid heat-styling methods as they can damage the hair cuticles. Towel-dry coily hair after showering to remove excess water. Since this hair type is already dry, avoid using blow dryers—air-drying it reduces the risk of breakage.

Keep a hair care routine. Different types of hair require different schedules of care. For example, straight, thin hair requires more frequent washing—about three times a week—than other types to control oil production. People with tight coils can wash their hair once a week to prevent breakage.

Use the right products. Using the best products for your hair type is essential to maintain hair health. For example, coily hair is the driest type of hair. Apply deep conditioners weekly. Curly hair has less natural oil and benefits from the use of a sulfate-free shampoo, which moisturizes the hair.

Haircuts for Thin Hair

The best haircuts for naturally thin hair accentuate the face shape while making the hair appear more luscious.

Asymmetrical pixie cut: As a dramatic take on the classic pixie cut, the asymmetrical pixie uses a deep side part to make thin strands sit higher on the head. This short haircut is a low-maintenance style that adds volume and shape to fine hair types. Hairstylists also recommend angling the side part according to your face structure, so your hair highlights your natural features.

Long bob: Also known as a lob, a long bob is a twist on the traditional bob haircut. The style extends the classic blunt bob to the collarbone or just shorter than shoulder-length. Unlike other types of bobs that incorporate different layers, the long bob is a one-length look. Long bobs work well for fine, straight hair since the flat hair strands show off the blunt cut. The blunt ends also add body to thinner hair and complement heart-shaped faces.

Layers: Face-framing layers, such as side bangs and mid-length angles, add extra volume and give the illusion of thick hair. If you wear ponytails, braids, or messy buns, opt for long layers to ensure the ends of your hair tie back. Adding layers to chin-length cuts also make the hair appear thicker, but these types of short hairstyles are more challenging to style in an updo.

Shag: For a low-maintenance look, consider styling fine hair with a shag haircut. With its choppy layers, shags makes thin hair appear thicker. Add a spritz of sea salt spray followed by a mist of hair spray to create tousled beach waves. Wavy hair is a signature feature of the messy shag and adds volume to thin locks.

Wispy bangs: Straight curtain bangs weigh down fine hair and make strands appear thinner. Opt for loose, wispy bangs along a middle part if you want to add bangs to your hair look. Apply a dime-sized amount of pomade to dry hair before separating your bangs and taming flyaways.

How to Style Naturally Thin Hair

Follow these hair care and styling tips to add volume and texture to your naturally fine hair:

Choose a layered look. If you have medium-length or long hair, opt for a hairstyle that adds height, such as a half-up, half-down look. For curly hair, consider using curlers or a curling iron to touch up the top layers of your hair. Defining these top curls adds volume and movement to your hairline.

Gently comb damp hair. Thin hair is more prone to breakage and hair loss than thicker hair types. To detangle your hair without causing split ends, let your hair air-dry most of the way, and instead of using a hairbrush, use a wide-toothed comb to brush your damp hair and detangle your ends.

Only condition the ends of your hair. While conditioner is nourishing and hydrating, too much of it can weigh down fine hair. To avoid saturating your hair with products, apply a nickel-sized amount of conditioner to the ends of your hair. As a general rule, always use conditioner on the bottom half of your hair, as it’s too heavy for the scalp region.

Opt for lightweight hair products. Heavy products weigh down thin hair and cause greasiness. Using the right products helps promote healthy natural hair growth and creates the illusion of thicker hair. Instead of oils and hair moisturizers, opt for lightweight mousses, texturizing sprays, and dry shampoos. These types of volumizing products minimize sebum buildup, reduce frizz, and lift the upper half of your hair for added volume.

Rough-dry your hair. Blow-drying your hair is another way to enhance naturally thin hair. If you have medium-length hair with long layers, consider getting a blowout to define your layers and increase volume. For shorter haircuts with minimal layers, opt for the rough-dry technique, which lets the hair shafts partially air-dry before styling with a blow-dryer. This DIY blowout method uses your fingers instead of a round brush to tousle and scrunch the hair as you move the blow-dryer around your scalp. Pushing the hair shafts up with your fingers is a quick way to enhance your hair texture and create natural volume.

How to Style Curly Hair

Arguably the most important part of styling curly hair is the way you treat it beforehand. Follow these curly hair tips for great-looking, bouncy curls all day long.

Comb wet hair from the bottom up. Your curly hair will detangle best if you start at the tips and comb up toward the roots. Always use a wide-tooth comb and gently work your way through small sections, detangling any knots as you go. Comb while your hair is still wet to allow your curls to dry in their natural curl pattern.

Deep condition once a week. Use a deep-conditioning hair mask designed for your hair texture once a week to restore luster to your curls and lock in moisture. For extra moisture, apply the conditioner to dry hair and cover with a shower cap for twenty minutes, then shampoo and condition as usual.

Dry with a T-shirt or microfiber towel. Use a T-shirt or microfiber towel to dry your hair. Terrycloth towels are rough on curly hair and can create frizz and breakage, while T-shirts and microfiber towels are softer and gentler on curls. You can also let your hair air-dry, or try “plopping,” which involves placing your hair in a mound atop your head and then wrapping it in a T-shirt to dry.

Find the right hair products. Use a shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair. If you have dry hair, aim for sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip nutrients from your curls and use a moisturizing conditioner. Look for styling products that are good for your hair type: Coconut oil will de-frizz, a leave-in conditioner will hydrate, and a mousse or curl cream will add body to fine hair.

Trim your hair regularly. Split ends create frizzy hair. To keep your hairstyle looking smooth and bouncy, visit your hairstylist regularly for a trim. Ask your stylist how often you should come in for a trim and follow their recommendation.

Protect your curls at night. If you want to keep your curls from getting flattened or frizzy while you sleep, try the “pineapple trick” by gathering your hair at the top of your head in a soft scrunchie or hair tie to hold it together in a loose bun. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase will prevent tangling and frizz while you sleep.

Use a curling iron. If your hair refuses to cooperate, a curling iron will help you get rogue curls back in place. Use a curling iron that’s the same diameter as your curl type.

Use a curl-refreshing spray. A curl-refresher hair spray will give you bouncy ringlets after a night of sleep. Make your own out of warm water and leave-in conditioner, or purchase a spray designed for this purpose. Spritz liberally and scrunch your hair with your hand to create defined curls.

Use a diffuser to add body. When you want to blow-dry your hair, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to avoid direct heat, which can cause frizz. Spray a thermal heat protectant in your hair before drying to protect your curls from heat damage. Always blow-dry your hair upside down to retain the body.

Tips to Treat Straight Hair

Using the proper techniques and hair products for naturally straight hair helps nourish and strengthen the follicles, combatting split ends and promoting healthy growth. Follow these tips to care for straight hair:

Condition regularly: To prevent breakage and dry ends, apply a moisturizing oil to the ends of dry or wet hair. If you have long straight hair, also consider using a conditioner with hydrating ingredients, such as argon, rosemary, or coconut oil to prevent frizz and flyaways.

Use heat protectant products: If you use a curling iron, straightener, or hair dryer on a consistent basis, apply heat protectant products to prime and protect your hair from heat damage.

Wash every other day: Unlike wavy or curly hair types, straight hair requires more frequent washes. Since the hair shafts are flat, oil buildup slides down the ends of the hair more easily, resulting in greasy hair. To prevent straight hair from laying flat and looking oily, wash your hair every other day with a sulfate-free shampoo.

Haircuts for Naturally Straight Hair

Straight hair types can pull off sleek styles with sharp edges. Here are some of the best haircuts to highlight your naturally straight locks:

A-line bob: This blunt cut is a twist on the classic bob. Known for its gradual slope, the A-line bob is shorter in the back and longer in the front. Straight hair works well with an A-line look since the flat hair shafts show off the angled hairline.

Long bob: Also known as a lob, a long bob highlights heart-shaped faces. Unlike a traditional bob haircut, which falls around chin-length, a long bob ends just above the shoulders. This blunt bob look also works well for blowouts.

Pixie cut: For fine hair, choosing a haircut with a deep side part is a way to add volume. A short pixie cut is an edgy hairstyle that typically uses a hard part to add height to the hair look. Defined by short layers on the back of the head and longer layers on top, the pixie cut is a low-maintenance look for straight hairstyles.

Side-swept bangs: Another cut that offers various styling options for straight hair is one with side-swept bangs. This look adds shape and volume to thin hair and round faces. Side-swept bangs also work for different hair lengths, so you can incorporate these bangs into a long or mid-length hairstyle.

Undercut: If you have thick hair and prefer a short haircut, consider styling your straight hair as an undercut. This trendy style has short sides that frame a long top piece, creating a striking look. You can play with the top layer of hair, styling it slicked back with a pomade or letting it hang down naturally across your forehead.

How to Style Straight Hair

Depending on the length of your hair and face shape, you can style straight hair with different grooming techniques.

Short hair: Use pomades and hairspray to style shorter hair. Applying these types of styling products prevents frizz and helps your style lasts throughout the day. When using a pomade on short haircuts, apply a dime-size amount to your hair to create a slick hair texture. Stylists also recommend using a lightweight moisturizer on skin fades to prevent the back of your head from becoming dry and irritated. You can use texturizing sprays and mousse to add volume to short hairstyles and incorporate dry shampoo into your hair routine to prevent oil buildup.

Medium-length hair: If you have mid-length hair, you can style your hair up or down. Casual updos, such as low ponytails and side braids, work well with straight, medium hair. You can dress these easy hairstyles up with a colorful barrette or hair tie. For a twist on your natural hair look, add a spritz of sea salt spray and let your hair air-dry to create tousled beach waves. Finish this wavy hair look with a thin layer of hairspray.

Long hair: To prevent tangling and split ends, use a boar-bristle brush or wide-toothed comb on damp hair. When blow-drying long straight hair, use alligator clips to divide sections of hair into manageable pieces and style with a round brush. You can try several long hairstyles, including half-up looks or updos like messy buns, high ponytails, or intricate braids. To style bangs with longer hair, use a blow-dryer and round brush, combing your hair away from your forehead.

Bob Haircut - a short style that frames your face and ends near your jawline.

This versatile hairstyle suits different hair types.

A bob creates a sleek look for thin hair and helps tame thicker tresses.

Different variations of the bob incorporate fringe, layers, and face-framing angles to add movement and shape.

Types of Bob Haircuts

Bob haircuts complement different face shapes and styles. Hairstylists cut long and short hair into the following bob variations:

A-line bob: This chic hairstyle features an angled cut. Shorter in the back and longer in the front, the A-line bob adds volume with its gradual slope. Consider opting for an A-line bob if you have a square face.

Classic bob: Also known as a blunt bob, this short hairstyle is a simple cut that remains the same length around the base of the hair. The blunt cut gives the face a round look, balancing the appearance of long face shapes.

Lob: Also known as a “long bob,” a lob is a longer version of the classic bob. Lobs end around shoulder-length and suit all face shapes. You can use a middle part to create a modern look or style your long bob with a deep side part to add volume. Lobs are a great option if you have long hair and want to try a short haircut while still keeping some length.

Layered bob: This short bob style uses choppy layers to add body and movement to the cut. If you have straight, fine hair, a layered bob gives the illusion of voluminous, thick hair.

Shaggy bob: Known for its razor cut, the shaggy bob is a bouncy, textured bob that features rough layers. Wispy fringe or side bangs are other common elements of shaggy bobs. This tousled, messy bob style is a low-maintenance look.

How to Style a Bob Haircut

While most bobs are too short to tie into an updo, there are many other styling techniques you can use to enhance the look of your bob haircut. Here are styling tips for different hair types:

Curly hair: Maintaining a curly bob involves preventing frizz and enhancing your natural hair texture. Apply a dime-size amount of styling cream to damp hair, gently scrunching the product into your curls. This application method defines your curls and helps prevent frizz. Avoid brushing your hair, as this crimps curls and causes flyaways. If you need to detangle your curls before styling them, use a wide-tooth comb and remove knots gently when your hair is wet. Finish the look with hair clips or a headband.

Straight hair: Unlike curly hair, which has natural volume, straight hair can appear flat. To enhance the look of your straight bob, apply a texturizing spray, dry shampoo, or mousse to your hair to add volume, or use a round brush when blow-drying your hair. Start with the bottom sections, gently curling the layers as you blow-dry, and apply a lightweight hairspray to make your blowout last throughout the day.

Wavy hair: For wavy hair types, play with your hair’s natural texture to create the tousled look of beachy waves. Add a spritz of sea salt spray to your hair, scrunching your wavy bob to accentuate your hair. You can also use a curling iron to touch up your beach waves—just apply a heat protectant spray to prep your hair.

Shag - a haircut defined by choppy layers, tousled volume, and wispy bangs.

As a versatile hairstyle, the shag is adaptable to different hair types and lengths.

The classic shag features soft beach waves, but variations on the shag style include the undercut shag, which has a razor-cut side shave, the wolf cut, and the shag mullet, which combines long layers in the back with shorter layers in the front.

You can have a straight or curly shag haircut and different length cuts, from long hair that extends beyond your shoulders to just above the collarbone (like a lob, or long bob haircut).

Wolf Cut - a hairstyle that features choppy layers on top and longer layers around the sides of your head.

Inspired by the retro rock 'n' roll look popular throughout the 1970s, this cut concentrates volume on the top half of the head, becoming thinner toward the hair ends.

The signature fringe of the wolf cut ends around brow length; however, you can customize the length of your bangs according to your face shape.

Straight, wavy, and curly hair types can create the type of tousled, bouncy lift that defines the voluminous wolf haircut.

If you have a naturally wavy or curly wolf cut, use a curl cream to add definition to your locks.

For straight hair, add a texturizing spray to create body and movement.

The wolf cut look also suits different hair lengths, so you can adapt this style into a long or short haircut.

Types of Hair Clips

Regardless of your hairstyle and whether you have straight or curly hair, there are different types of hair clips to help maintain your look throughout the day.

Alligator clips: Unlike other types of clips, alligator hair clips function as a temporary piece to hold hair back during haircuts or styling. Alligator clips have a unique pinch style that grips hair and prevents it from slipping out of the clip. Since alligator clips have a strong clasp, hairstylists use them to hold curls in place and pin hair off the face.

Banana clips: Known for their unique shape, banana clips have a row of stretchy teeth enclosed by two flexible pieces of plastic. Popular during the 80s, banana hair clips create a voluminous ponytail. You can also use a banana clip to secure a French braid or bun hairdo.

Bobby pins: As a versatile, lightweight clip, bobby pins are a staple hair accessory. Both thick and thin hair types can use bobby pins. You can use them to create messy buns or clip bangs back. Depending on how you position the bobby pins, you can either display them or hide them in your hair.

Claw clip: Also known as jaw clips, claw clips are a hair accessory made with a single clamp and row of teeth. Claw hair clips range in size depending on the number of teeth; however, most claw clips can hold a large section of hair. You can use a claw clip to replace a hair tie and create an elegant French twist or a classic half-up, half-down look. Butterfly clips are small claw clips that look like a butterfly.

Duckbill clips: Similar to alligator clips, duckbill clips are for haircuts or styling rather than for use as an everyday fashion accessory. Made with a large, flat prong, duckbill clips divide the hair into sections so stylists can easily cut and style hair. Using duckbill clips also makes the blow-drying and styling process easier if you do your hair at home.

French barrette: Unlike other types of hair clips, French barrettes have a tension bar positioned under the clip’s flat surface. Since small sections of hair are secure between the top and bottom piece, the tension bar is out of view. French hair barrettes come in various colors and patterns, from minimalist pastel shades to bold prints.

Snap clips: A great option for fine hair, snap clips secure small sections of hair without slipping. Snap clips open and close with a simple push.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ⚜ More: Notes ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs ⚜ Hair Styles

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eccentricallygothic · 3 months ago

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Depraved Night's Watch Lord Commander!Jon Snow and Arrogant Noble Woman!You…

Warning(s): Noncon/Dubcon, dark!Jon Snow, kidnapping, kissing, groping, forced stripping, manipulation, breeding kink, bastard shaming, humiliation. MDNI.

Note: Can/Does this qualify for Kinktober/Halloween?

. . .

His bushy lips that are akin in their roughness to his fingers that ‘gently’ move your hair away from your back that he further exposes by pulling on the harness that had been holding your blouse together feel harsh against your soft skin. He pushes the mass of your soft strands over one of your shoulders from behind and a beastly arm is wrapped around your waist to pull your body closer to that of your captive so he can press his deranged and lewd kisses along the length of your spine, the sickening sensation causing for your body to curl in disgust.

Jon Snow is a bastard in every sense of the word.

Having meticulously crafted the persona of the gentle warrior full of valiance, endurance and better sense, you now understand with a frightening realization that he tirelessly worked for the construction of his present circumstances for years so he could perform a flawless execution of his plan that you are living now.

Although for reasons not particularly aimed at the shallowness in his facade that you can see through now, it is now that you know that you had always been right in your unyielding contempt of him. That your intuition that there festered something dark and twisted behind those ‘innocent’ eyes of his that were black as night and thus your accordingly treatment of him was justified.

Jon had taken your unrelenting shaming and insulting of his origin, your humiliating rejection of his proposal to you and your vehement refusals of any and all attempts at any kind of an alliance between the two of you with a smile for years so as to portray you an unruly beast-like daughter of an influential man only so he could do this.

Your chapped lips curl in fury and disdain that you feel for the thought as well as yourself. You had always considered your skills in self defense and swordsmanship to be on par with any other lad your age.

Only for your mind to not even process your abduction when it was underway let alone your combative learnings to come into play.

Your body stiffens when one of his hairy paws reach for your bare breasts and you almost smack it away but your stomach lets out a painful growl and the lining of your stomach painfully retracts into your organs at that very moment almost as a signal to make you stop and reconsider your urges. Your body freezes and you let your eyes wander to the object of your humiliation and assured desecration. The sight causes for your dry mouth to salivate in a way you had been a stranger to before this.

A steaming bowl of stew with a jug of water.

That is the deal. Jon says he will not force himself on you. No. Rather, you will willingly surrender yourself to his touch and mercy. You are to welcome his acquaintance with your intimates, thank him for it, moan for him, let yourself loose to his touch and enjoy everything he plans to do to you.

Water for every pinch and grope.

Fire and warmth for every move and sway of your body like the whores you've shamed your whole life.

Food for every adulterous act.

A treat for every ‘experimental’ position in the bed that is currently a heap of carelessly woven straws.

A possible improvement of living conditions for every bastard you bear him.

He can easily bring the appropriate means down in this dungeon that he has built specifically for you in the undergrounds of Castle Black to marry you and legalize as well as religiously sanction this depraved dynamic he has devised for the two of you.

But just why would he do that when he can easily get what he wants from you whilst torturing you to live through exactly what you have shamed him for all your lives?

. . .

MASTERLIST

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dreamgrlarchive · 2 years ago

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High Maintenance 101

Prissy Girl Beauty Regimens 🎀

my prissy girl guide to beauty services and building a beauty lifestyle that fits you 💗

Skincare:

Essential Skincare Routine ❤︎︎

twice daily, in the morning and at night

daytime: gentle cleanser, toner, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, SPF

prep and protect skin

nighttime: double cleansing with oil and cleanser, exfoliation, treatments, moisturizer

wash away the day and help skin accept treatments and actives during your beauty sleep

products will change depending on skin type and goals, but sequence will more or less stay the same

Face Masks + Treatments ❤︎︎

Face Masks -

typically done at home 1-3x/week

clay, gel, mud, cream, liquid

my fav masks at home:

aha + bha liquid mask by the ordinary: a literal overhaul of my pores. it’s refining and helps reduce texture and hyperpigmentation. 1-2 x/week

korean modeling mask: i use this after doing everything in my routine. it’s super cooling and smooths my skin out. the low temp of the mask reduces flushing of my skin and helps the steps in my routine absorb better. 2-3 x/week

Treatments -

done either 1-3x/week and/or exclusively at night

consumer grade Retinols, AHAs, BHAs at high strength

little extra things i like to use to enhance my routine:

gua sha, ice pack, rose quartz roller, however often i choose

Facials ❤︎︎

done every 1-2 months by licensed estheticians

often includes exfoliation and extraction

Classic Facial: cleanse, extract, massage, moisturize

HydraFacials: extracts pores while infusing serums to boost skin’s vitamin and nutrient content

dry, dehydrated skin

Microdermabrasion: microabrasive tool removes outermost, textured, damaged layer of skin using suction to reveal a smooth and refined new layer of skin

sun damaged, aged, textured skin or skin with hyperpigmentation

Chemical Peel: application of medical grade AHA, BHA, Lactic Acid, Fruit Enzymes, or Retinol to peel away top layers of skin over the course of 1-2 weeks

pore refining, brightening, and anti-aging

after care is crucial. skin will be peeling and sensitivity to sun is increased. SPF MUST be used. it’s heavily advised that clients stay home for the first few days.

HydroJelly Facial: facial made of electrolytes, algae, organic white grain oat flour, rice flour, and white willow bark powder. leaving your skin hydrated, plump, and nourished. forms a vacuum-like seal that compresses facial contours.

there are 25 different hydrojelly pro masks for most skin concerns you may have, check here

More Facials ❤︎︎

Contouring Facial: sculpting, tightening, and lifting of facial muscles

LED Facial: uses LED light to soothe inflammation, aiding in acne healing and prevention

Vampire Facial: plumps skin and improves wrinkles by extracting blood, removing its platelets, then either re-injecting it into the skin or applying it topically

Diamond File Facial: finely ground diamonds resurface skin by filing to improve dark spots

Glass Skin Botox: multiple tiny botox injections just below the surface of the skin. alleviate fine lines, redness, texture, and more achieving glass skin

AquaGold Facial: microinjections that combine vampire facial methods, hyaluronic acid, botox, stem cells, antioxidants, vitamins, peptides, etc. improves fine lines, wrinkles, pores, pigmentation, acne scarring, dryness, tone, texture, skin elasticity, and more

cite

Hair:

Hair Care ❤︎︎

Wash Routines:

curly textured: wash and condition every 2-3 weeks, deep condition every 1-2 weeks

straight: wash and condition every 2-3 days, deep condition every 2-3 weeks

Styling ︎❤︎︎

Hair should have a style everyday! At home hairstyling is limitless and really depends on your taste and lifestyle. The everyday woman does her own her once every 1-4 weeks using natural hair products, heat, or other tools.

Professional Stylists:

hair is styled every 1-3 months: uses heat to straighten or curl, extensions to lengthen and add volume, shears to maintain/attain a shape and length

trim ends: every 6-8 weeks

hair color: touched up roughly every 6-8 weeks (depending on how fast your hair is growing and how fast your color will fade)

Silk Press:

after a clarifying wash and deep conditioning, natural hair is straightened using flat iron and/or pressing comb, then usually curled in feathers or pin curls to preserve the style

lasts 3-4 weeks depending on maintenance

preserved by wrapping hair at night, keep hands out of hair, and using a wide toothed comb only

can be further styled with different kind of rollers, or with pin curls

Braids:

afrocentric hairstyles typically done to protect hair while maintaining beauty

lasts 3-8 weeks

styles include knotless braids, faux locs, stitch braids, french braids, etc

Extensions:

hair added to natural hair to enhance length or volume

can be done at home with patience and proper materials

sew-in extensions: (my personal fav) 1-2 months

your natural hair gets braided down flush to your scalp and the bundles are sewn on by the wefts in a flat pattern typically with a section of hair left out to cover the wefts $100-600

microlinks: up to 4 months

i-tip extension is added to hair using micropliers, clippers and loop tool. takes far longer than most extension methods but looks the absolute most natural $500-1000

tape-in extensions: up to a year, touch ups every 4-6 weeks

medical grade tape is used to attach extensions to small sections of hair $200-400

clip-in extensions: 3-6 months

extensions are clipped on by the wefts. the hair itself can last up to six months, but it’s not recommended to sleep, shower, or swim with the extensions in $50-100

Natural Styles:

all last roughly 1-2 weeks at most. allowing hair to completely DRY is crucial for these styles. your natural hair can be further changed in styles like buns, puffs, etc once dry

natural hair essentials: scalp oil, leave in conditioner, detangling brush, wide tooth comb, curling cream, styling gel, edge control and edge brush

wash n’ go

wash and detangle, then use leave in conditioner to keep hair moist. oil on the scalp and ends is recommended for growth and healthy ends

bantu knots

a traditionally african style where the hair is cleanly sectioned (usually parted in a cute pattern) and twisted into knots. style can be worn just like this or taken down for curls

braid/twist out

a specific pattern of curls is achieved after hair is twisted or braided with curl preserving products. end result depends on how big your twists or braids are

roller set

hair is sprayed with water and curl cream applied before roller of your choice is added. hair is left to dry usually overnight for springy well formed curls

Brows and Lashes:

Brow Shaping ❤︎︎

in salon or at home

Waxing - every 3 weeks

Threading- every 2-3 weeks

Razor Shaping - weekly

Brow Enhancement ❤︎︎

Tinting - monthly

can be done at home or by pro in the salon

Microblading - every 1-3 years + annual touch ups, exclusively professional work

cosmetic tattooing using a manual tool with nearly invisible hair-like needles to inject pigment in brows to create your desired brow look

Lash Enhancements ❤︎︎

*done exclusively by professionals

Lifts - every 6 weeks

basically a perm for your lashes to curl them semi-permanently for lashes to appear longer

Lash Extensions - new set every 6-8 weeks, fill ins every 2-3 weeks depending on quality and style

false individual strands of lashes glued to natural lashes to create semi-permanent length and/or volume

lash baths: wet lashes and apply a small amount of gentle cleanser or a “lash bath” to lashes. cleanse lashes and eyelids for about 10 seconds. hold a towel under your eye and use a nozzle bottle to flush soap and bacteria from lashes then dry with a disposable lint free towel. finish by brushing your lashes with a spoolie. daily.

Lash Styles:

Classic: one lash on each fan, thin lashes

Volume: fluffier lashes with more lashes on each fan

Hybrid: uses classic and volume lashes to make an alternated look

Russian: volume lashes made with very thin individuals, 5-6 extensions per natural lash, fanned out look

DIY Lash Extensions - lasts about a week (sometimes longer)

lash fragments or individual wisps are glued either under the lashes or on the lash line. KISS Falscara is a product that makes this concept simple and easy

Nails:

all these services can be done at home with the proper materials and KNOWLEDGE

Classic Manicure ❤︎︎

every 1-2 weeks

nail service that consists of soaking hands in warm soapy water then drying them. nails are trimmed, filed, and buffed. cuticles are pushed back before applying nail polish (base coat, color, top coat), then finally cuticle oil is applied.

nails can be enhanced with rhinestones, glitter, or charms and attached with uv gel or nail glue

my fav styles are pink, cream, white, black and any french tip using those colors

Pedicure ❤︎︎

every 2-4 weeks

sister to the classic manicure, but can be upgraded depending on materials. steps are similar to manicure, except feet are scrubbed and exfoliated before feet are washed and dried to apply nail color

regular polish, acrylic, or gel can be used on toenails

Gel or Shellac Mani ❤︎︎

every 2-3 weeks

same process as the classic manicure, but traditional nail polish is replaced with uv base coat, gel or CND Shellac polish, then uv top coat that’s cured in a UV or LED lamp

longer lasting and more strong/3d than classic mani and is typically removed by soaking in acetone

Apres Gel-X Nails ❤︎︎

every 2-3 weeks

my personal fav at home nails using the artme yoko matsuda nails. after doing a classic mani sans polish, you apply a dehydrator and primer to prep nail for gel. then you apply builder gel to your natural nail and cure. then you apply that same builder to the nail extension after etching it using an electric drill or acetone. marry the gel to your nail and cure. then just shape to your liking and top with uv top coat. tutorial here

Acrylic Nails ❤︎︎

every 2-3 weeks, nails are fully grown out after 6 weeks

manicure done with liquid monomer and acrylic powder to build and extend natural nail, then polished with color or just a top coat if desired

Russian Mani ❤︎︎

every 4-5 weeks

essentially a gel manicure, but more invasive. the eponychium is snipped away so polish can be applied more closely and flush to the cuticle. this aids in visuals and longevity

service is seen as risky because the skin is more susceptible to fungal or bacterial infection. this is actually how i do my nails at home.

Body:

Bathing ❤︎︎

2x daily

self explanatory, we all know how to bathe. i have other posts that talk about my shower and bath routines.

use a gentle cleanser then a scented body wash to complement perfume and smell fresh all day.

if needed, you can use body soaps with actives like aha, bha or retinol to exfoliate or treat skin at night

exfoliation - 2-3x/week. using scrubs, loofahs, bath brushes, etc.

Hair Removal ❤︎︎

shaving - 2-3x/week

waxing - every 3-5 weeks

sugaring - monthly

ipl device - a device that uses light therapy to slowly destroy hair follicles and unwanted pigment in skin. i use mine after every 5-6 shaves but i could really use it more often.

Vajacial ❤︎︎

1-2x/month

a “facial” for your lady area

the esthetician will first wax, then cleanse and apply an enzyme exfoliant. then they extract any blackheads or ingrown hairs from the area before applying a soothing mask usually in the jelly form.

Moisture and Hydration ❤︎︎

body cream or lotion - daily right after bathing to hydrate skin

body oil - daily to seal in moisture and protect skin from debris and dryness

masks - weekly to address particular skin concerns

ex. when i was having eczema flare ups on my back, i used a dead sea mud mask every 1-2 weeks to help treat it

done at home or at spa

glycolic, clay, mud, salicylic, etc.

Enhancement Procedures:

the goal is to look younger and balance facial features. all these services are exclusively done by professionals usually in a medspa and are widely considered luxury.

Botox ❤︎︎

every 6-8 months; between brows, smile lines, outer corners of eyes, etc

discourages muscle movement to reduce wrinkles

Lifts ❤︎︎

lasts about 10 years; face, neck, brow, eyelids

skin is lifted to desired look, then excess skin is removed

Fillers ︎❤︎︎

every 6-12 months; under-eye, lips, jawline, wrinkle sites, cheekbones

injects acids (usually naturally occurring) like Hyaluronic Acid and Calcium Hydroxylapatite to add volume to your face

Body Contouring ❤︎︎

every 2-4 months until desired results are achieved

non invasive liposuction to achieve desired physique

CoolSculpting - cryolipolysis freezes fat cells for the body to the metabolize and and remove them

SculpSure - essentially the same as CoolSculpting, but uses heat and laser technology to destroy fat cells

Laser Hair Removal ❤︎︎

every 5-6 weeks; bikini, underarms, legs, arms

touch ups done every 1-2 years

hair growth is inhibited by exposing follicles to light at frequencies that kill them

Building the Regimen 🗒️💕:

when making appointments with your “glam squad” you can stagger your services by week depending on what’s being done. for example you can get your mani and pedi done one week. then your facials, brows and lashes another week.

Things to Keep in Mind 💭💞:

these frequencies won’t be the same for everyone depending on personal wants, budgets, etc. but will most likely land somewhere in the ranges i gave. if you need touch ups or redos any sooner than i mapped out, then the service most likely was of poor quality.

anything done at home may or may not be up to the level of detail and longevity as salon or spa work. if you see yourself doing the majority of your beauty maintenance at home, this can save money but may end up taking more time than professional services. so it’s a give and take.

More Resources:

manage your routines, services and products using a beauty binder

a look at my skincare routine

at home beauty treatments for the summer

my hair care routine at home

pretty on purpose by @shefromhouston

monthly beauty routine by @angeljpg

dream girl routines by me

#the prissy girl agenda #dream girl journey #prissy lifestyle tips 💕🎀#dream girl routines #masterpost #my posts #skincare

2K notes · View notes

lilacxquartz · 7 months ago

Text

Don't Make Me Feel Alive I Chapter 7

kenjaku x f!reader

chapter summary: as his own feelings for you become clear, the more he wants to keep you away from everything and everyone else.

warnings: threats of violence, dubcon

< Previous Chapter • Next Chapter >

7. Electrify

As the week continued to pass you by, you found yourself feeling all the more confused regarding his treatment towards you.

Kenjaku’s initially teasing personality managed to fade into something resembling cold indifference and just as you got used to that side, he once again settled back into something warmer again.

Leaving you completely and utterly confused.

And even while you remained alive just as he had promised, his actions left you feeling just a bit… uncertain?

As such, even despite what he had done to you—you started to develop feelings of something that you probably shouldn’t dare explore, finding that he played the role of a caretaker a little too well for your liking.

Was there something wrong with you for not hating him more than you did? It wasn’t that you were head over heels for him, since even just seeing his cold dead eyes watch over yours made your skin crawl and your senses dry heave, but… there was something beyond that sense that you couldn’t quite grasp.

Such masterful management and knowledge of your illness which otherwise threatened to consume you, proved surprisingly helpful and that was doing strange things to your head.

He hurt you but he also took the pain away.

With that, the week then finally slowly concluded while he continued to conduct experiments on you, testing the recovery times of your waning condition, leaving you feeling conflicted in your own building confusion.

(And his too.)

The experiments continued to reduce only to be replaced with subtle acts of affection, which left you feeling equal parts disgusted as well as strangely wanted. Things like his hand lightly brushing against your shoulder when he would pass you by or how he would gently move your hair out of your face while you rested. Things like ensuring you would stay warm, especially as your condition gradually worsened.

And as he noticed this—his hands so warm against your own, he couldn’t help but shake the feeling that this whole project of his was doomed to fail. Regardless of what he did, the battery only prolonged your life, doing nothing to actually stall the condition.

In short, you were alive but you shouldn’t have been. Realistically, you should have been dead by now if you didn’t have the pendant.

Such a realisation of what must have been a constant state of pain for you stopped him in his tracks momentarily, understanding that regardless of what he did, that you might not make it, after all.

And for the first time in a long while, he didn’t like that outcome, not wanting specifically you to die.

Making another decision, he decided to seldom complete the rest of the tasks leftover for the month, in turn leaving you behind for the remainder of it with only some occasional visits, testing to see if this would improve your condition.

(Maybe it was something to do with him, he thought, so what if he removed himself from the picture…?)

This decision of his left you feeling even more uncertain but at least this sort of life was one you were familiar with already; it was strangely similar to the same sort of routine that you had back at the hospital except this time your surroundings felt more personal.

Nobody else had access to the location he kept you so safely tucked away within so even while left alone, you would very unlikely meet with another soul—locking you away in what seemed to be the perfect prison, providing both optimal protection while allowing you to rest without any interruption.

Food, however, was taken care of by an associate, leaving you behind meals at the front door. Just one other person had access with a key and was given a specific instruction to do it discreetly and to never talk to you, lest their head end up served on a platter instead.

And as the month continued to close to an end, Kenjaku found that his own feelings towards you didn’t waver a single bit, the sense of emotional investment running abundantly strong.

Staring at your worsened state, he found himself feeling frustrated as your condition continued to deteriorate.

“Disappointing,” he muttered.

You didn’t reply to him as he continued to focus his sights over your body, hiding his concern quite well. He learned how to mask his feelings over the course of the past millennia; people come and go, after all.

(And all in the blink of an eye.)

But there was just something about you.

“I’d like to try something with you,” he spoke up again after a while, taking his hands off of you as he took a step back. He decided to actually go forward with the plan he had earlier in mind, refusing to admit defeat in your potential just yet.

“Try what…?” you asked, your tone laced with worry. He was being hurtful and your mind immediately jumped to something perverse.

He looked over at your body, noticing your lack of muscle mass (which only further fed into your unease), finding that while you did look better than you did at the hospital, you were nowhere near the usual standard of a fit sorcerer.

“You can’t fight, right?” he asked you.

“I can’t,” you confirmed, sounding slightly relieved that the direction of the conversation didn’t sound sexual after all.

Kenjaku simply nodded in response as he suspected as much, feeling disappointed even though his smile did not reveal his true feelings. He scrapped the plan in his mind to have you involved with any sort of combat, even if he did intend to keep you around as a trump card—deciding that he would only do so if all other options had run out, knowing that fully utilising your technique would very likely kill you.

So instead of involving you in direct combat, he chose to explore alternative uses of your technique instead, thinking back to when you had no issue during the time spent training bursts of it earlier on in the year. Electricity was versatile, after all, so he could simply tweak your technique to be supportive rather than offensive instead.

“Try to shock me using as little energy as you can,” he suggested, not wanting to damage his own body either while also wanting to see if you were capable of accomplishing what he had in mind.

You nodded in response, feeling him unlock the limitations of your technique. The sparks of it manifesting through what felt like your literal bloodstream as you focused your cursed energy. You continued to lock your hands into a sign, channelling a small surge that he chose to not intercept, instead assessing its potency.

His skin numbed briefly as a tingling sensation washed over his body, however only temporarily. This was enough to give him an idea with how to finalise your potential; still rendering you useful which will have meant that this whole experiment wasn’t a waste of time, at least not completely.

“Did that drain your energy at all?” Kenjaku asked you, his eyes locked on the stone.

“No,” you replied.

A smile returned onto Kenjaku’s lips as he finally relaxed, his curiosity peaking as he desired to hone your capabilities further, seeming to shift his mood into something playful at last.

“Could you channel the electricity a little higher then?” he asked, trying to push you past your boundaries in a safely conducted manner, ready to intercept your attack if you misinterpreted his request as an instruction to demonstrate, but you never did.

“I-I can,” you confirmed with a slightly shaky tone, “but no more than what we practised.”

“In the future, I’d like for you to try and see if you could focus the electricity to connect at a directed point, such as a hand or a leg rather than aiming for the core,” he explained, having an idea.

He spoke in a gentler tone with you that time, not wanting to subject you to mockery just yet. He was capable of kindness, but he was just… selective with who he showed it to.

There was fake kindness and then there was the real thing. Most of the people who crossed his path would get a taste of something fabricated, while maybe just a few would get something genuine.

(And you were one of the very few.)

“I could try,” you replied, however sceptical of its effectiveness, “would that be enough, though?”

“It might be,” he speculated, “from what I can understand about your technique’s use from before, you could only execute quick bursts on your opponents so the shock never lasted,” his volume increasing, excited to flesh out his plans, “so, if you could channel a slower, maybe more of a deliberate shock… then you could likely get away with causing some serious nerve damage.”

“So I’m basically a taser?” you asked, attempting to keep up to speed with his explanations.

“Something like it,” Kenjaku smiled, amused by your comparison, “if you could cause weakness or numbness in your opponents, if even temporarily, then you would be a huge help.”

“And this wouldn’t be stopped by my opponents?” you asked, not quite buying its effectiveness.

“We can work on the speed of your attacks later on,” he reassured, “as long as you can protect yourself from both a distance as well as up close, then you can still be quite powerful.”

“I-I see… so in the end the physical training was pointless…” you sighed.

“Ah-ah,” Kenjaku shook his head, “I taught you how to amplify your reflexes, rest assured that while you’re not fighting head on, that you will have a role. While knowing how to intercept physical danger.”

You nodded once again as you understood your involvement in his plans a little clearer now; your role essentially being a deterant.

Still, you remained uncomfortable with the prospect of helping him, knowing that he was likely up to something potentially devastating, unable to trust him at all after he had hurt you, even if he did fulfill his promise to keep you alive.

It wasn’t as though you had a choice with your involvement either way, so you tried your best to endure what you could manage while your mind pushed the remaining troubling reality away.

Kenjaku continued to swat away at the bursts of energy you kept feeding him, carefully observing your energy output as he did so. He mentally noted that these attacks, while small, were powerful and kept you still grounded on your feet—so that much was already a success.

Whether or not he would choose to have you take on a combative role in the future come autumn, he figured that you should keep practising maintaining control of your energy regardless. It didn’t matter how much rest you got as your condition would continue to develop either way, so you might as well strengthen yourself where you could. The battery would keep you alive in the process either way; just as long as you didn’t fully deplete it.

And as the energy from the pendant finally drained itself to its lowest limit, sleep followed suit, finding that you could last a surprisingly long time if you managed your technique efficiently. Just as he promised you. This proved to be a breakthrough, both to him as well as you because for the first time in years, you could control something that you had to give up so long ago.

Kenjaku meanwhile felt himself grow further attached to you, seeing you as his prized project and maybe even as his property, understanding that he didn’t quite see you as an equal, let alone as your own person because the achievements you had accomplished were forged from his own hand.

As such, that longing hunger seemed to return again, wanting nothing more than to claim your body as his own again and again, equal parts pride clouded by a desire that he once more couldn’t get enough of.

He continued to stare at you as you slept, that familiar returning. Kenjaku already knew fully well that you couldn’t stop him if he woke you up but at the same time, he longed for something slightly different.

This time he wanted to relieve tension.

Tension that you caused from being so unpredictable with your success.

And for that, he required your cooperation.

Gently, he nudged you awake; tracing circles around your skin with his lingering fingertips, slowly pushing you back into a waking state. He noticed that the amulet wasn’t completely dim just yet, so in his eyes that was just enough energy for you to spare.

Kenjaku moved himself closer as he sat by you. His palms moving over your shoulder and sweeping your hair out of the way. His fingers clasped around your scalp, getting a feel for how you felt completely in his grasp.

Locking your head into place, he guided you slowly over his lap. Bless your heart as you tried to resist, but he didn’t let you go.

Tightening his fingers around your skull, he lowered his voice, “Consider it as helping me.”

That particular feeling of dread returned and the guilt combined while he proceeded to pull you by the hair to meet with his inner lap. Your eyes widened into clear lucidity as he parted his robe, presenting you with his thickened length; the tip throbbing; leaking precum in its excited state.

You understood what he wanted for you to do right away as he drew you closer to meet with his twitching cock. You mentally recoiled as you felt it poke against your lips, not even daring to look up to face the look of contempt he was likely giving you.

Initially, you resisted by daring to pull away but he didn’t let you. His fists closed as he pulled at your hair, the strands burning your skull as he tugged tight. You reluctantly surrendered and opened up your mouth when the pain became unbearable, feeling the sickening sensation of his meat pushing against your tongue, sliding into your mouth.

Kenjaku leaned back as his legs widened; his head tilting back in pleasure. He bounced your head to suck at a preferred speed, his black eyes slowly following down to stare blankly at the sight before him. He never let you see it, but a slight smile tugged at his lips as he watched you gag on his dick; enjoying the sight you gave him.

You continued to reluctantly continued to give into his needs and he eased the pressure by continuing to guide you while rhymically thrusting upwards; feeling your throat envelop his shaft—your body began to however struggle; your eyes beginning to water as he rammed himself as far as he could to dominate you.

Through this whole thing, he remained silent on purpose. He wanted to hear you sing for him through the noises of your struggling gagging to fill out the otherwise silent room.

Eventually though, his grip on the bedsheets seemed to tighten as a violent release approached. It was a pity he couldn’t last longer, he thought, but this was from a spur of passion, he supposed. He did try to keep your mouth occupied for as long as he could help it though, not quite caring in the heat of the moment if you could properly breathe or not.

Quickening the pace a final time; a seething gasp followed by a strained grunt escaped his lips at last. His stomach tightened as he continued to force your head down a final time, burying his cock in you while keeping his hands trained on your neck, squeezing it ever so slightly before completely, emptying himself into before finally allowing you to rest.

His body reeled as electrified currents coursed through while thick loads shot out of him and into you. He helped dislodge you from his length as a trail of webbed cum, mixing with saliva followed, spilling even more from you coughing in the aftermath.

Feeling satisfied, he sat there for a moment longer to recover. His hands ran affectionately this time through your hair, the corners of his mouth anchoring into a frown when he felt you flinch away.

Keeping you close to him anyway even as the mess continued to cling onto your chin; something stirred within him as he slowly surrendered himself into deep thought. Pulling your hair slightly back so that he could look you in the eyes, his old barren pupils studied you, searching for something else.

Initially like before, you instinctively averted your gaze. Kenjaku took that however as a sign of submission, seeming to answer what he was seeking out from you.

A dangerous thought formed in his mind as a result.

“[Name],” he spoke, not asking you for your attention but instead directly demanding it.

He moved his hands deliberately over to your neck as he spoke, keeping his fingers wrapped right around your throat while he choked you with just a bit more pressure than before.

You gasped in response as your breath hitched, your words immediately silenced with how he held onto you. He smiled as he noticed that but then his expression turned vacant again.

“If you ever do this sort of thing with anyone else, ever again, just know that I won’t hesitate to kill you,” he lied, flashing a playful smile, although he would hurt you if you did so, wanting for you to understand exactly what your place with him now was.

You tried to reply but then his hands tightened, suppressing every little sound.

“Do you understand what I’m asking from you?” he added, wanting for you to express loyalty to him. For some reason, he felt disgusted at the prospect of sharing your body with others.

You tried nodding in agreement instead, even if this whole thing wasn’t consensual to begin with. Not the first time and certainly not the second time either.

Feeling you do just that, Kenjaku’s gaze then intensified, releasing you from his intense confinement.

“Correct choice,” he smiled, his demeanour thawing as the pressure wafted away, seeming almost playful again. He then let you go, encouraging you to go and get yourself cleaned up at last.

However, you were now completely exhausted as the pendant waned so you couldn’t really do anything other than just exist. You managed to wash up but your stride wobbled and your steps didn’t quite connect on the way back.

“Are you able to walk at all?” he asked you, grabbing onto your hand as he noticed you stumble, “I’m needed somewhere soon, so I’d like for you to come with me, if possible.”

“Not yet,” you warily replied, your voice shaking as you spoke.

“Sleep a bit then,” he said this time, offering you that same sort of confusing warmth despite what he just did to you, “I’ll wake you up in a bit.”

***

He kept to his promise as you felt a hand nudge at your shoulders, prompting you to awake a second time. Initially you flinched, backing away just in case he wanted something more from you before remembering the reason.

It was still dark outside, but he relented as he coaxed you out of bed and got you to look slightly more presentable before leading you right outside.

“I’m tired,” you mumbled to yourself, despite the pendant looking brighter than before. As long as it was glowing, you had no excuse, “where are we going…?”

“A meeting like before,” he replied, choosing to honour his promise of letting you know more about his plans if you really wanted to, “you don’t have to participate but you can listen in.”

“With the uh, group—the group that, the group that-“ you tried to reply, your mind still clouded with the remnants of sleep.

“Mahito’s group, yes, the cursed spirit alliance,” Kenjaku replied, confirming what you failed to say.

“Do I have to work with them?” you asked, seeking clarification because why else would he have you meet with them again. It felt weird talking to him as if nothing had happened earlier on, but you didn’t really have a choice.

“No,” he replied bluntly.

“Then why-“

“—to understand your place as well as to understand theirs,” he interjected.

You yawned again as the rest of the walk passed by in silence, Kenjaku finally slowing the pace as you had both reached your destination. The alliance loitered around in an abandoned factory this time with the patch-faced cursed spirit swinging around on what appeared to be broken machinery. The volcano-headed curse meanwhile simply sat idly by. The pale muscular curse was also present, seemingly mesmerised by a plant sprouting through the concrete while muttering in a language that you couldn’t understand.

Much like before, you had very little interest in participating in their meeting even if you did have an opportunity to listen in this time, choosing to wait in the shadows instead. This was the second time that you encountered the death painting who also seemed to be parked quite far as well.

Personally, Choso felt that his involvement in these talks wasn’t particularly needed as his role was to act on direction, not quite caring about either side’s ideals.

Kenjaku, on the other hand noticed this, not particularly enjoying seeing the two of you interact again, knowing how it made him feel the first time. He didn’t quite understand why you both seemed to get along and it irked him.

This was something you didn’t understand either, but you didn’t actually mind talking to Choso about his continued interest in humanity.

“What types of emotions do you feel daily?” the death painting continued to ask you, seeming genuinely curious to know what it meant to be truly human.

“It depends,” you replied in consideration, “most days it’s indifference, but that’s likely due to my illness. I think some people feel that way too even when they’re healthy though, or maybe just contentment. Maybe stress if they work or study. Maybe even anxiety to an extent.”

It felt strange explaining the fundamental concepts of emotions to someone who listened so intently, but you didn’t see any harm with letting him know such things.

Choso personally found that your answers carried a lot of weight for him, feeling more and more curious from each passing second that you spoke.

Then he caught onto a detail and his brows furrowed, his bruised complexion paling as he squinted his eyes, “Your illness?”

But then as he waited for your response, the meeting seemingly concluded and you were dragged away with Kenjaku before you could reply to him at all.

Choso watched with a hint of confusion as your company gradually disappeared from his sight, feeling frustrated that his questions were left unanswered once again.

Eventually returning back to where he kept you, Kenjaku felt that gnawing need to maintain your loyalty towards him surface again—invading a part of him that he refused to understand. To see you talk and even smile in the presence of someone else when you had never even warmed up to him the same way felt strangely… insulting?

As such, instead of reverting back to his cold demeanour, he chose to take a different approach with you instead. Even if this meant limiting your life even further, he didn’t care for the consequences as long as kept control of you.

“Don’t talk to them again,” Kenjaku spoke, pushing you down and watching you fall; your body meeting with the bed—not quite caring if you missed and hit the floor instead.

“To who…?” you asked in a state of confusion; the sudden anxiety draining the amulet sooner than you’d like. Suddenly you felt tired again. Weary, even and your eyelids dropped shut.

However, Kenjaku refused to let you sleep, forcing you to sit up as he loomed over you.

“Don’t even try to befriend any of them; their roles are too different from yours,” he continued to drill, keeping your attention focused on him, “you have their place and they have theirs, so don’t intervene.”

“I wasn’t intervening, though,” you replied.

“Then how do I put it lightly? Don’t even acknowledge their very existence.”

Internally, Kenjaku understood that what he was currently feeling was very likely a degree of jealousy, wondering yet again if this was fuelled by his vessel rather than his own mind, considering the notion of whether he would care or not if he inhabited anyone else.

Whatever it was, be it his own personality or the one intertwining with him, he stood by the belief of not wanting for you to interact with the cursed spirits, despite being the one who requested your attendance in the first place.

He seemed to take this issue more personally than he liked to admit, seeing any deviation as misunderstanding your role and mingling with his deceitful alliance as sabotage, even if it was an absurd conclusion.

This must have been your fault too, because if you actually listened to him and just did as he told without question (despite that being exactly what you were doing), then he wouldn’t be in this position with you to begin with.

Not thinking logically for a change, Kenjaku pushed your body even further into the mattress and kept your writhing body secured under his hand to deliver you a message instead; to ensure that you wouldn’t dare stray from what he brought you here to do so, even if he wasn’t quite sure himself what that truly meant anymore.

“Your only role is to stay and listen. You can understand that, right?” he asked you.

With an exasperated tone, you stuttered in a questioning voice, “Th-that’s what I’ve b-been doing…?”

“Incorrect, but you’ll learn,” he drilled, “don’t talk to anyone else.”

“But it wasn’t anything bad-“

Kenjaku interjected, his voice sharp as he cut you off, “—Did I stutter?”

“No…” you quietly replied in a sulk.

“Then use your ears for once and actually listen,” he spoke, his lips curving into a lighthearted smile which you felt was unsettling given the frightening context, “because if you continue to self-sabotage such an idiot-proof role, then I have no remaining use for you.”

You struggled to form a response while he now gently patted your head, smoothing your hair down your scalp.

“Don’t make me dispose of you just yet, because I absolutely would do so,” he warned you now, his voice deceptively playful, almost singing his words.

Finally, feeling the weight of what he was warning you with, you backed down and settled into agreement, nodding meekly as you took heed of his threat.

“But of course I’m just kidding, I wouldn’t do that to you just yet,” Kenjaku pushed at your cheeks, squishing your face together a little painfully, “because you’re going to behave… right?”

He nodded your head for you before you got a chance to respond; your eyes wide and staring at him, unsure how to keep up with his unpredictable nature.

“Right?” he asked you again, seeking reassurance as he pinched playfully at your skin.

“R-right,” you repeated as he continued to nod your head, ceasing in doing so after giving him the correct answer.

“Good… now, get some rest again,” he said, finally permitting for you to do so, letting go of your body and letting the pressure disperse.

You tried your best to fall asleep, finding that not even a minute had to pass for your body to finally give in. Was it fear? Nerves? You weren’t sure but you weren’t going to question your body giving you an out as you drifted off to sleep.

Kenjaku meanwhile stared straight down at you, feeling his stress finally subside while not fully understanding why he was still capable of feeling this way for people, given that he was otherwise content in idling his time spent on earth alone.

In fact, through his almost millennia of existence, he recalled that there were only very few people who ever had such an effect on him at all.

Thinking back to his insights earlier on, he speculated that his vessel didn’t even know you personally so there was no memory for him to be misinterpreting—so this must have been something genuine that had formed in the midst of his forced care for you. Finding that when you fulfilled his craving for power in the peak of your hyper-dependence, something else must have blossomed on his end.

(And whatever this feeling was, he enjoyed it, truth be told.)

It was then that it dawned on him that should the moment ever call for him to die, for whatever reason or cause, that he would take you down with him.

He thought this to be completely reasonable, finding chaotic logic under the understanding of if your life was only ongoing because you depended on him, then what right did you have to live without him?

In his mind he owned you, after all.

Your life was his own, not yours.

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shiningfremi · 1 year ago

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freminet when you’re sick/hurting

s/o comfort headcanons + drabble!

- freminet will buy you so much stuff and deliver it right to you. fluffy socks? check. your favorite snacks + beverages? check. medicine? check! it’s like a never ending care package.

- he takes extra care to accompany you and stay close, even if he risks catching your illness. he cannot stand not to come to your aid whenever possible. and when you fall asleep, he adjusts the covers for you and dims the lights, making sure you are nice and comfortable.

- if you have a low appetite, he’ll make extra sure that you are drinking enough water. even if you’re taking the tiniest of sips, he is happy that you are trying.

🐠🍦♡ ̆̈☀️

freminet offered you some lemon water, and informed you that it can help with congestion.

“t-thanks..” you groan, shivering under the covers after you took a little taste.

“is there anything else i can do for you?” he inquired, gently reaching over to put a hand on your shoulder.

“you’ve already done so much for me, fremi.” suddenly, you wince as a horrible ache burgeons in your stomach, forcing you to curl up in a ball.

“of course, now is a time when you need it most-” he then quickly noticed your struggles and scooted a bit closer in concern. “y/n?”

you couldn’t help but cry out in pain, a single tear running down your cheek. you’ve never been this sick in a long time, and you simply felt miserable.

“my stomache..” are the only words you managed to choke out.

“shh, shh, it’s alright, i’m here.” he assured you, his heart broke seeing you in this dire condition.

you continue to sob, trying to stifle your cries the best you could.

“breathe, just breathe, as deeply as you are able.” freminet instructed you, his attention never leaving you, not even for a split second.

you did as he told you to do, breathing in and out, interrupted by a few pitiful coughs.

“there, there.” he soothed, and watched on as your breathing grew steady and your eyes blinked dry. he pulled out his hankerchief from his pocket to gently blot your tears and wipe off your nose.

“see? all better.” he playfully squished your cheeks, causing you to let out a small giggle. it seemed as if he knew exactly what do to when you were feeling down.

“there’s my y/n.”

“i’m sorry you have to see me like this.” you tell him, your voice shaky.

“there is no need to apologize.. i want nothing more than to make sure you’re not alone.” freminet leaned over you and planted a loving kiss on your forehead despite how much you were sweating.

“please don’t hesitate to rely on me.”

his gestures were so sweet, that it made your eyes want to glass over once more. you gave him a small, exhausted grin, and burrowed your head into your soft pillow as he coaxed you to get some more sleep.

🌴🐬♡ ̆̈🍉

- this amazing boy would most definitely hold your hair back in your times of nausea. he didn’t give any care to what you looked like, as that was the last thing on his mind, he just wanted to nurse you back to health no matter what.

- he would dutifully inform you about what you were missing out on, and passed on kind messages from your coworkers and friends.

- freminet would give you back and shoulder massages, hoping to ease your distress and help to relax your muscles.

- he would take great care of the place you two shared during your hiatus, cleaning thoroughly, cooking simple sick-friendly meals, and disinfecting everything.

- when your condition improves, he reminds you over and over again not to overwork yourself and continues to check up on you by touching your forehead with the back of his hand and tucking you in. you are everything to him! ଘ(੭´꒳`)°* ੈ‧₊˚

#freminet x reader fluff #freminet x gn!reader #freminet fluff #genshin impact #genshin fluff #gn!reader #fontaine #freminet #freminet x reader #freminet headcanons #genshin headcanons #genshin x reader #i love freminet sm #fremi

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imreadydollparts · 2 months ago

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It's glitter glue!

Rubbing alcohol and a little gentle elbow grease and it comes right off.

You do have to be careful with rubbing alcohol because it CAN remove the factory paint. I've not had it happen on a G1 but I have had alcohol strip the paint off of a G3.

The easiest way to deal with this would be to either soak the body in boiling hot water (not water that is actively boiling, don't leave it on a stove) or in some cold Totally Awesome but her hair is in decent condition and I don't want to ruin it. Totally Awesome would dry it out and hot water can, too, but is much less likely. I do my best to preserve and improve, not worsen a doll or pony.

What I will most likely do is stand at the sink and carefully scrub the glue off with some Totally Awesome, occasionally soaking thicker globs by laying a bit of paper towel soaked in T.A. on them to soften the glue.

But not right now. My health comes first, and then commissions when I have the energy.

#my little pony #doll repair

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edosianorchids901 · 1 month ago

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Old Familiar Things

@sherlocktember2024 prompt - "wound"

“Holmes?” Watson rushed to the settee, chest seizing with panic. “What’s happened to you?”

With a slight wince, Holmes waved a hand in a weak, dismissive gesture. “I’m all right, Watson.”

“You are very much not all right,” Watson said as he knelt. The claim to be all right was not a surprise. Holmes had said the same thing last year after being beaten nearly to death by Baron Gruner’s men. “How did you come by all these wounds?”

Holmes closed his eyes and curled up, pulling the blanket higher. “I have simply had a little fight. You need not worry.”

“Was it an attempt on your life?”

“No, no. Just a case that developed unexpected complications.”

“Like you are developing bruises?” The bruises were the least of the worries, although there were plenty of them on Holmes’ face, hands, and probably elsewhere. Drying blood crusted the corner of Holmes’ mouth, and more clung to scattered cuts and scrapes. The blood matting his hair was further cause for concern.

“It is hardly the worst I have ever been injured.” Holmes twitched a quick smile at him, and then winced again. “Nevertheless. I would be grateful if you would perhaps tend to me, Watson.”

“Of course I will tend to you.” Watson pushed back to his feet and briefly rested a reassuring hand on Holmes’ shoulder, then fetched a chair and his medical bag. “How did you get past Mrs. Hudson in this condition?”

“I arrived while she was out doing her shopping. I am well acquainted with her routine, and it was a simple matter to avoid her.”

“Naturally.” After retrieving a basin of water and several cloths, Watson sat. He glanced across the blanket covering Holmes, and saw no bloodstains. “Are you hurt anywhere else?”

“Not to the point of bleeding. I believe I have may have some bruising on my abdomen.”

“The sort of bruising that might indicate internal hemorrhaging?”

“Nothing so dire, Doctor.” Holmes drew a ragged breath. “It is considerably less serious than the little injuries I received from Gruner’s associates.”

So, likely no broken ribs this time, and the lack of confusion was a good sign. Holmes was certainly speaking more easily than he had been on that occasion. But still.

“I don’t like that you’ve been struck over the head again this soon,” Watson murmured, carefully sliding his fingers through Holmes’ hair. He soon encountered the bleeding cut, and pushed the hair back to better examine the wound. “Tell me how you feel, and do not conceal anything.”

Flinching away from Watson’s hand, Holmes gave a frustrated sigh. “Ow. I felt perfectly fine until you began prodding me.”

“Holmes.”

“A headache, but less severe than my migraines. No serious sensitivity to light. No nausea. No extreme fatigue.”

“Likely no concussion, then, but we will keep an eye on you.”

“I am quite certain that you will be endlessly hovering.” Holmes sounded dismayed at the concept. He did not like needing help with this sort of thing, and Watson had expected the protest. “You and Mrs. Hudson once she returns shall both wish to endlessly observe me.”

“I’m sure it’s horrifying to have people who care about you,” Watson said with a fair amount of sarcasm. He washed away the blood and bent closer, examining the cut on Holmes’ scalp. It was not too deep, just bleeding in the usual manner of head wounds. “Well, I don’t think you’re going to need stitches anywhere, so that’s an improvement over the last attack.”

“You see?” Holmes flashed another quick smile without opening his eyes. “I am perfectly all right.”

Watson rolled his eyes and returned to his work. He bandaged Holmes’ head first, putting plenty of linen across that deeper cut so that it would absorb the blood. Then he moved on to Holmes’ face. His left cheek was pressed against pillows, so Watson tended to the right side first.

“Can you turn at least partially onto your back?” he asked, smoothing damp hair off Holmes’ brow. “I need to clean the rest of your wounds.”

“I would rather sleep.”

“You are the one who asked me to tend to you, old man.”

With a grumble, Holmes turned over. He was moving more slowly than usual and winced as he did, but did not seem to have any difficulty with the motion. Certainly no serious injury concealed under his clothing, then.

Watson cleaned and disinfected the wounds on Holmes’ face, then turned his attention to his injured hands. They were trembling slightly, and Holmes drew a shaky, whimpering breath when Watson took them.

“Easy.” He turned Holmes’ hands, coaxing him to uncurl his fingers. “Easy, let me see.”

Holmes whimpered again, which was not entirely a surprise. He had always been more sensitive to pain in his hands, particularly as they tended to be a little achy and easily chilled. Sometimes more than a little achy. “I do not think I… have any serious injury there, Watson. I have simply driven my fists into a few too many opponents over the decades.”

“Mm.” Watson studied the bloody hands, then let out a sigh of relief. “Well, you have some swelling, a great deal of bruising, and some cuts. But I don’t think most of those blood is yours.”

“It is not mine,” Holmes said proudly.

“Did you win?”

“Of course I won, Watson!” Holmes gave him an indignant, offended look, as if he hadn’t been beaten and left for dead only a few months ago. “They were hardly worthy adversaries at all. Two common thieves who I somewhat accidentally startled. By the way, when you have finished prodding at me, could you assist me with something else?”

Watson glanced up from wrapping Holmes’ injured fingers. “Always.”

“Good old Watson.” Another smile crossed Holmes’ face, this one gentle and affectionate. “I delivered the thieves to a constable, but I have yet to provide a full account of the case. If I could perhaps dictate to you?”

“I would be honored.” After securing the bandages, Watson held Holmes’ hand in a careful grasp. “I do not want you doing anything taxing with your hands for a couple of days. You must rest them, and give them time to recover.”

Holmes sighed, but he nodded. “Very well. I shall certainly require your writing services, then, for I have a great many cases at present.”

Watson nodded, relieved. At least Holmes was not fighting him on this, and had not been seriously hurt again. He would recover easily, if he rested. “I shall be happy to do whatever I can.”

Closing his eyes, Holmes gingerly squeezed Watson’s hand. “I know.”

Instead of immediately beginning to dictate his account, though, he simply lapsed into a tired silence. Watson sat beside him, holding his bandaged hand.

Soon, it would be necessary to clean up, to wash away blood and collect the dirtied cloths. But not just yet. For the moment, they would simply rest together, and be grateful that this “little fight” had not led to more serious wounds.

#granada holmes #sherlock holmes #john watson #hurt/comfort #sherlocktember2024

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thequeenskeep · 6 months ago

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Self Care Tips 💄

Exude Wealth and Class

In the spirit of lightheartedness, I want to share some of the self-care habits I've developed that have helped me build discipline and routine. Oftentimes, when we speak so seriously about self-mastery it may become unrelatable. I know that we women pride ourselves on our dedication to looking and feeling like our best selves. This skill can be the stepping stone to new heights. Within numerology, the number one represents the self; the very first step to improvement begins with us. Hygiene reflects mental sharpness, wealth, class, and spiritual favor. Instead of denying yourself love because you look unconventional cultivate your look. Be unique. Be the representation you want to see in the world. Please research the tips I provide, as they may not be compatible with everyone.

Facial Massages. Wow oh wow. These have seriously changed my life. I do them to shape my face and help me relax. They increase blood flow and give your skin a youthful, buoyant look. I also massage my neck and shoulders; I really love to do this at night to help me destress.

Hair Steam Treatment. Whenever I moisturize or condition my hair I ensure that it is dripping wet. I apply whatever product I want to really absorb into my hair, then put on a shower cap or processing cap. I leave it on for an hour and the heat from my scalp steams the water infusing my hair with hydration. My hair is so soft every time I do this and gives me a break between steps.

Bathing. Seriously, if all you can afford is 20 minutes a week you will be thanking me. Bathing is an experience. Sitting in the tub, watching the bubbles glisten on your skin, the warmth and aromatics filling your senses, complete relaxation being submerged in nature's hug. A good bath will make you forget everything troubling for a true moment of bliss. When it feels like the world is crumbling down on you take a salt bath and pray.

Foot care. Now this is a big one. The soles of your feet are your connection to the divine feminine. Cleansing and renewing your feet is important for spiritual well-being. Make sure you also take care of your nails. Weekly manicures and biweekly pedicures will keep everything prim and proper.

Dry Brushing. OMGGG! I SWEAR by dry brushing my skin has never been more supple. I've used various forms of exfoliation and got the best results from dry brushing. I like to do a light chemical exfoliation to help renew the skin this, however, is optional.

Movement. I know we're having a great time ladies but this is my final tip. Move your body! Stagnant energy will spill over into everything you do. Stop rotting in bed. Go outside, do yoga, workout, dance, whatever you feel called to do even if it's just 5 minutes a day. If we want to see movement in our lives we need to move ourselves.

Beauty is a significant aspect of life if you'd like to read my thoughts on the power of beauty please refer to:

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brownprincipessa · 2 years ago

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♡ My Looksmaxxing journey ♡

♡♡♡ Hi, everyone! ♡♡♡

I recently embarked on a personal journey to focus on enhancing my physical appearance. With ample free time during my summer break before the start of my final semester in August, I decided to dedicate myself to this endeavor. In this blog post, I'll share my three main areas of focus and the steps I've taken to achieve my goals.

Teeth: While my teeth aren't in terrible shape, I do have some spaces on my upper row and excessive gum display, which I wanted to address.

To address the spaces, I opted for braces ($142/month). Additionally, I plan to undergo a gum reduction procedure, as recommended by my orthodontist, to rectify the excessive gum display.

Skin: I began working on my skincare earlier this year but struggled to maintain consistency. However, I have now established a morning and night routine, along with some dermatologist-prescribed medication.

To improve my skin, I follow a routine that includes applying Spiroloctone (taken twice daily, $15 every 3 months) and Tretinoin (applied topically every other night, $10 every 3 months). In addition, I use Cerave cleanser, Cerave morning and night moisturizers, and a witch hazel toner for both my morning and night routines. To enhance the effectiveness, I incorporate Gua Sha and derma roller techniques in my morning routine and perform dry brushing before every shower. I also ensure to use body oil and lotion immediately after each shower, while using Dove for sensitive skin during my shower routine.

Hair: This year, I made the decision to stop relying on wigs and weaves and embrace my natural hair, which I believe suits me better.

To care for my hair, I follow a weekly routine that includes washing it with a cleansing shampoo and hydrating conditioner. For styling, I opt for a Wash n' Go method, applying a botanical gel layered with a holding/alcohol-free gel. Additionally, I take MSM supplements to support hair growth ($10). To maintain its health, I deep condition my hair once a month.

Body: Though going to the gym has always been challenging for me due to discomfort in crowded spaces, I have found alternative ways to stay active.

Instead of traditional gym workouts, I prefer at-home Pilates routines and outdoor walks in the park, which allow me to prioritize my physical well-being while avoiding the discomfort of being watched or surrounded by large groups of people.

My journey towards looksmaxxing has been an empowering experience of self-improvement. By focusing on my teeth, skin, hair, and overall physical well-being, I am taking proactive steps towards enhancing my appearance and boosting my self-confidence. I'm excited to continue this journey and see the positive changes it brings.

Will try to update every month ♡

#manifesting #looksmaxxing #vindicta #loa #glowup #selfcare #selflove

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multi-fandom-lunatic · 6 months ago

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Message in a Bottle - Percabeth Oneshot

“Sometimes you’ve gotta sit back and enjoy the waters. Right, Perce?” My mother said, her soft voice blending with the waves. She tilted her head upward, and it looked like she was glowing, haloed by the evening sun.

The sand was grainy and light as I let it slip between my little fingers. It was too dry to build a sandcastle, though. I ran down where the waters met the land, planting myself a small distance from the waves. I liked the beach even then. The soft crash of waves on the sand, the wind whipping my jet-black hair, and how the waters matched my sea-glass eyes. I began to pile the sand into towers, building a mansion for the insects and crabs that roamed the sand. I dug a moat around the castle, allowing the waves to gush and fill the moat.

Even today, in perfect beach conditions, wrinkles etched by stress aged my mother's face. It was clear, especially when her face morphed from the carefree mom who bought me ice cream on weekends to the wife she had to be for Gabe. Even the beach couldn't cure that.

I turned away from my sandcastle as a wave washed over my feet, bringing a small glass bottle and a scroll wrapped up inside. I uncorked it and turned it upside down, spilling the paper on the sand with a small pen I hadn't seen earlier. It was blank. I pondered, drumming my hands against my face, about who had sent this note for a few seconds when my six-year-old brain kicked in.

I grabbed the pen with force, uncapping and scribbling on it, illegible handwriting filling the pink paper. I balled the paper and pushed it into the bottle. I capped it and threw it into the sea, channelling all my strength. I waved goodbye to it, watching the waves carry it somewhere.

My mother turned to me, eyes crinkling as she smiled. "Probably time we head back, Percy." She said. Her smile was beautiful, but it was hard to ignore how she longed for this place. It was hard to ignore how much I longed for it.

I nodded, picking myself up and clasping my hands in my mother's. I looked up, the height difference between us becoming apparent, as she dragged me to our car. I stole one last glance at the ocean, hoping I could convey how much I'd missed it, as I strapped into my booster seat. My mother sighed, turning on the ignition and pulling me away from the landscape.

***

We were in the same spot again, my mother relaxing on the sand and me running helter-skelter as the crisp morning air filled my lungs. I plopped down and began my plans for a new sandcastle, bigger and more ambitious than last time when a wave crashed against my leg. I turned to catch the cool, smooth object that washed up with it. The same old Pepsi bottle, but this time with a pink post-it note inside.

I rushed to undo the lid, hardly able to contain my excitement. The note from months ago had reached somewhere! I eagerly eyed the paper, my ADHD scrambling to keep up.

I got your note. I like the beach too. I don't like spiders. I'm Annabeth.

-Annabeth Chase

I squealed, causing my mother to finally look up at me. She eyed the bottle and whispered. "What did you find, Percy?"

I recounted the story to her as efficiently as I could, which was not efficient at all. She struggled to keep up, but her eyes widened when I finished talking. She looked even more excited than I was, and I couldn't understand why.

"Oh, Percy. Quickly, write back!" She said, pulling out a post-it from her bag. I wrote as fast as possible, proud to display my slightly improved handwriting. I slipped the note inside and my mother sealed it shut.

I sent it to the sea and turned to look at my mom when it was out of sight. "What if it doesn't reach Annabeth?"

She simply chuckled. "The sea has a mind of its own. But it also has a heart."

***

The sea acted as my texting service, dutifully carrying my messages to Annabeth, and right back. She always wrote in the messiest handwriting. It was like a puzzle, trying to decode what she said. But usually, the content was the same. Homework, learning, lack of friends and repeat. I never understood why she was lonely at school. She was probably one of the most amazing people I knew.

My mother just giggled every time I brought her up. She always ruffled my hair and offered me a blue cupcake. I brought Annabeth up every day.

Now I was twelve. I thought of myself as mature, but sometimes I doubted it. Sure, the childlike curiosity vanished when I hit the age, and the saturation had turned down. But sometimes, I still felt like a kid, waiting for Annabeth's messages by the sea.

I did end up with one friend, though. Grover Underwood. He was a nice guy, with bushy red hair and a personality almost as great as mine, but not Annabeth's. Grover teased me whenever I brought up my pen pal, but whatever. He didn't know Annabeth like I did.

Our peaceful life bunking schools and failing classes only lasted a while. I've always seen things differently, whether it was magic horses on buildings or monsters on the streets, but it was all too real when Mrs Dodds morphed into a monster and became my nightmare. Grover helped me fight her off, and she screeched like a harpy when she was killed. But I knew. I couldn't stay here any longer. I had to leave.

The drive to Camp Half-Blood was stressful. Grover and I clung to each other (as best bros would) as the car jerked, struggling to leave behind the raging minotaur.

But the battle was a losing one. I knew it when the monster grabbed my mother and crushed her into nonexistence. And I could see the flicker of hope and determination in her eyes. And that only made it worse.

My first day at Camp Half-Blood was a blur. Green fields stretched miles and merged into strawberry ones, and the lake was a mirror to the clear sky, but I was in my head about losing my mom. I couldn't even crack a joke all day. A gentle buzz rang in my head, reminding me that my mother was gone.

I clutched the violet bead on my neck, a gift Annabeth had made for me and sent it through the bottle. I made her the same one back, and I pictured her wearing it every single day.

A girl bumped into me. She scoffed, barely looking back, but I caught sight of her neck. The bead, just as violet as the one around my neck, with a sloppy lilac on its face. I grabbed her hand, too stunned to speak. She turned around, an angry remark written all over her face, but it faded as her eyes trailed down to the bead she gave me. We locked eyes for a moment and said at the same time, "You!"

"Annabeth?" I whispered. She swallowed and nodded.

"Percy?" She said, and my heart fluttered at the sound of her saying my name. She said it so perfectly, as if the name tasted sweet on her tongue like she never wanted to let the name go. I clung to the feeling.

She was different than she was a few seconds ago. And she was beautiful. I had a rough idea of what she looked like, curly blonde hair and grey eyes, but it was nothing like seeing her in person. Her hair formed in ringlets and blew in the breeze. Her eyes were like magnets, drawing me nearer to them. I shook away the thought.

Annabeth was by my side for everything. When I journeyed to the Underworld, and even when Grover had to sport a wedding dress. She was there when Luke . . . I might not finish that sentence.

It wasn't long before I asked her to be my girlfriend, and it was only a fraction of a second for her excited "Yes!". We'd shared many things before, a satchel, a quest, but only then did I share a kiss with her, underwater.

I was kicking my feet, sitting on the dock of Long Island Lake, the water swishing as I swung my legs. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. The sun dipped into the horizon, waving us goodbye, and I could imagine Apollo blowing kisses in the air as he drove his chariot. the grass looked greener than usual under this sun, and I planned to share a hearty meal with Annabeth that night.

I looked down as a bottle hit my feet. Heart racing, I picked it up, feeling like a six-year-old again. I uncapped the bottle like I did with Riptide, and unfurled the note inside.

It was always meant to be and I knew it most. You're very welcome. Hope you and Annabeth are doing alright. I'm just a message in a bottle away.

-Poseidon, your dad

With shaking hands, I held the note close, feeling tears in my eyes. Of course. It was him. It was always him, passing along those notes. I didn't even question it as a kid, just allowing myself to trust the sea. And mom knew too, didn't she? All along, Annabeth and I were written in the stars, by none other than the sea.

I smiled. All of it started with a message in a bottle.

---

HOPE YOU LIKED IT YALL

#percabeth #pjo #percy #percy and annabeth #annabeth chase #annabeth pjo #annabeth percy jackson #pjo books #rick riordan #sally jackson #love #shipping #fandom #riordanverse #oneshot #fanfiction #fanfic #message in a bottle #taylor swift reference

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