#it had really pretty images going on too it was all snowy with the northern lights and stars and things

[skyward-floored]

Another weird dream. This time it was weird in a different way though, there was some kind of monster thing that where if it attacked you (killed you? Ate you? It was vague) you got like, absorbed into it, and it took one of your abilities or something. It was just this big dark cloud though, it was spooky.

In the dream, all of the chain had fought it and been absorbed except for Wild, because somehow because of his sleep in the shrine when the monster tried to absorb him it didn’t really work, and Wild was left as this weird spirit thing. He got weaker over time though, like the monster was still absorbing him somehow. And the only way to make sure he didn’t get totally absorbed was to somehow get magic from the northern lights. I don’t know how he did it, but somehow he managed it at least once.

He went to find Malon because she somehow knew what was going on, and they were trying to get a plan together but my alarm went off so I don’t know what happened next 😭

[puppyluver256]

[Image Description: Three fan-made Pokemon made to resemble the northern cardinal bird, one of which is presented as two sexually dimorphic individuals.

The first Pokemon is a young bird with yellow feathers, tipped red-orange at the wings and on the tail. It has a small rounded blue beak, blue legs, and big dark blue eyes. It has its wings tucked against its body and is looking to the left of the image as it faces the right. The feathers on its head stick up to imply the beginning of a crest. Light blue text to the right of the image reads "Cardling".

The second Pokemon is a juvenile bird with tan feathers on its body and red feathers on its wings and tail. It has a blue beak and legs and light blue markings around its dark blue eyes. Feathers on its head stick up in a crest. Its legs are pulled up against its body and its wings are outstretched in flight. Light blue text to the right of the image reads "Purdinal".

The third Pokemon are two adult birds with large three-feathered head crests, maroon beaks and legs, blue facial markings, dark blue eyes, and turquoise talons resembling icicles. The individual on the left is a little larger and has bright red plumage with blue tipped wings and tail, while the individual on the right is a little smaller and has dull tan plumage with bright red belly, wingtips, and tail. Their wings are tucked up to their bodies and they are positioned to that their bodies are facing each other, while their heads are facing away. Turquoise text outlined in light blue to the right of the image reads "Frostinal", while smaller text in the same colors reads "male" and "female", indicating the larger red individual is a male and the smaller tan individual is female.

End ID.]

-----

Cardling - Chick Pokemon | flying While Cardling are capable of flight a lot earlier in life than some bird Pokemon, they are almost incapable of dealing with the cold until maturing. They tend to become quite close to their parents while they can before they make the trip back north. / Cardling are very susceptible to frigid temperatures, and as such their parents must nest much further south than the typical location of their home. They feast upon a wide variety of berries several times a day in order to build their strength.

Purdinal - Fledgling Pokemon | flying They are capable of fluffing up their down undercoat in order to provide some better cold resistance than they previously could. They seem to be quite fond of Snover berries, but their opportunities to taste them are quite rare. / Beginning to develop some mild cold resistance, Purdinal sometimes travel further up north than they could as Cardling. They are still not fully capable of living in cold climates, merely visiting to briefly reunite with parents while they are still fairly young.

Frostinal - Cardinal Pokemon | ice/flying It lives in the northernmost parts of Cantessy, except for during breeding season when mated pairs will travel south to raise their less resilient young. Males can be seen feeding females berries plucked from Snover during courtship. / Its talons are as cold as the snowy north it calls home. A mated pair will fly south to warmer climates during breeding season as their young cannot withstand the cold very well until fully grown.

I know the tradition with Fakemon stuff is to introduce all the starters and their evos together, but I wanted to post the full evo lines for my starters pretty close to posting people who would reasonably use them, ie. the player(s) and the rival characters. So we're gonna wait a bit on Calflame's evos for now and instead focus on Cantessy's "Route 1 bird": Cardling! And of course its evolutions Purdinal and Frostinal! Compared to the origins of the starters' inspirations, the Route 1 bird was fairly simple to figure out. I knew when I was figuring things out that I wanted my Route 1 bird to be based on Kentucky's state bird, the northern cardinal. I see 'em all over the place here, and they're really not hard to spot, especially the bright red males for which the species gets its name. (fun fact, when I first learned about catholic cardinals I thought they were named after the birds, luckily I was old enough to have the critical thinking to realize it was probably the other way around pretty quick on my own hehe) So Cardling are based on a mix of the babies and fledglings, Purdinal on the juveniles, and Frostinal obviously on the adults. This is going to be the only Cantessy Pokemon to have a gender difference, as I wanted to reference how the females are closer to olive drab rather than that iconic vibrant red. Better egg camouflage, y'know?

Thanks to my buddy Tav for suggesting the final stage of this evolution line gain the ice type! This was the only major hang-up I had with this line at any point, tbh. I knew I wanted it to gain a secondary type, but I didn't want to just play into the red coloration and make it fire type, and becoming fire would also make it too similar to Talonflame with fancy colors. They suggested ice, and I was reminded of all those winter images and holiday cards that have cardinals on them, not to mention the red plumage would artistically stand out against a snowy scene in a really lovely way. (come to think of it, that's probably why cardinals are used in those images hehe) And speaking of ice-type cardinal Pokemon, please check out the Pokemon Cardinal series on YouTube! It's a really cool Fakemon series and I think y'all would liiiike it O:

Also if anyone wants to suggest other moves for these guys to learn and some physical stats (ie. height and weight, idk much about scaling hehe), feel free to throw ‘em at me :3 Links to their info pages will be provided in the replies!

💖🐶 Check out my pinned post for ways to support my artwork, among other things! 🐶💖

~If you like, please reblog to show your friends! Likes are appreciated, but reblogs let more people see my content! If you have something to say, feel free to give feedback in tags/comments/replies as well!~

Pokemon and related concepts © Nintendo/GameFreak Cardling, Purdinal, Frostinal, the Cantessy region, and artwork © PuppyLuver Studios

[mythopoeticreality]

well, I... John Uskglass?!!??!?

Well, if you insist….xD

How I feel about this character

I mean….*sweeping gesture towards blog* I suppose you could say have something of an appreciation for him?

xD Nah, But seriously, from the very moment he appeared on that snowy Yorkshire moor in front of Childermass, I’ve loved this guy. Forget the scene, he stole the whole book! I love the mystery that surrounds him, how much of an enigma he is; I love that he is this incredible force of nature, this legend, this being that seems so Fae at times and so inscrutable. I love how absolutely extra he is? This inclination for melodrama developed over years of growing up in Faerie: Why just walk into a room when you can materialize out of a chaos of ravens? Why simply refuse to learn to read when you can create your own writing system, one that more easily aligns to your own way of thinking?  Why take your vengeance for your parents deaths out on the one guy who did it, when you can conquer half an island? The man has two modes: “Cool Arrogance” and “Sinking Coastal Yorkshire Villages Into The Sea” and I kinda love it? (though, just to make things clear, I don’t actually approve of the drowning of Coastal Yorkshire Villages, no matter what allies they’ve made in their quest not to pay their taxes. In case it needs to be said)

Most of all, I love how incredibly human The Raven King can be as well. There’s compassion – offhanded, a second thought, of course, yet still there–  in the way he heals Childermass before he vanishes again. There’s humor in his parting words to Childermass, “You are wrong, he is not dead” – a dry, ironical sort of understatement, that the man can’t even hear, you can nearly picture the smirk curling at his lips as he says it! And there’s care in all that he does. He set in motion a plan three centuries in the making, manipulating who knows how many events, all for the sake of England, for his Kingdom, to bring magic back. John Uskglass is a teacher, he gave magic to England and it spread through his own students. John Uskglass is an explorer, building the King’s roads and traveling to countless realms in search of more Knowledge, more Magic.  Yes, of course all of these traits are twisted and filtered through a more Fairy lens, why wouldn’t they be? He was raised by these beings! He’s not fully human – but he’s not entirely Fae either. He’s this strange mixture of both that neither can really understand. It’s isolating, it’s lonely, and it’s fascinating. I just…love the Raven King when he’s shown as a person?

And I just…love how he’s presented in the book? We don’t see him until that scene at the end, but by that point in the book, you’ve heard so many legends and stories and Historical anecdotes about him that you just…feel his presence over the whole story? By that point, you know about his conquest of Northern England, and of his youthful Arrogance, refusing even to learn how to read, because what could he possibly gain from doing so? You’ve heard about how he gradually became less arrogant, less like a Fairy and More like a Man after ruling his Kingdom for so long and how he did eventually learn to read – how he decided that engaging with the thoughts of others was worthwhile after all! You hear about his Strange Fae nature in the Raven King Ballad, how he’ll spirit away unsuspecting people to his realm in Fairy. You’ve read about his cruelty: the incident with Henry Barbatus, the Yorkshire Village he sank into the sea. You’ve heard rumor of his multiple returns to England: Riding off of a Fairy Road and blessing the family of the Farmer at the end of it who gave him food and a horse; Guiding back home the daughter of a Newcastle Glovemaker who had wandered her way into Faerie; As an omen of ill fortune for a group of shipwrecked basque sailors. You even know the names of those close to him: Thomas of Dundale, William of Lanchester, Catherine of Winchester.

But in the end, how much do you really know at all? Do you know if any of these tales are true? If they are then they only open more questions. What are the other sides of these tales? Who were those others with the King when he departed from the Fairy Road, the one who vanished along with it with the morning mist, who the Raven King so blithly told the Farmer not to worry about? How did the Glovemaker’s daughter find her way inside the Raven King’s house? Did she just stumble upon it or did he bring her there? And why?

It’s fantastic.  You get all of these glimpses of the character, and you can’t help but build an image from them in your mind. But it’s never a complete image.  Never full, you can never really understand the Raven King any more than any of the characters in the book can.

(So um yeah…apparently I have *alot* of feelings about the Raven King. xD) 

All the people I ship romantically with this character

 Alright so my main ship for this guy is actually John Uskglass/England, take that in whichever way your imagination is inclined, because yes I probably mean it that way. Honestly, when you see how Happy all of Nature is when it thinks Stephen is the Raven King and that John Uskglass is returned? It’s just really cute?! How can you not?!

On a more Human level, as I’ve said before, I do actually picture John Uskglass as being pansexual, and as per his fairy upbringing, rather more casual about his sexual relationships. That said….I actually have very few ships…with like…named characters, for Uskers? Maybe it’s because I do see his affairs as so casual most of the time, or maybe it’s just because he’s so isolated a character. I dunno. Black Joan is the one character  that’s a definate yes. If she’s anything like her son, she’d be shrewd and cynical and the sort of person who can hold her own against the Raven King. I have to admit I definitely love that sort of fairy-tale like trope of this Great and Powerful King, and this relatively ordinary thief falling for one another as well. So yeah, definately here for Black Joan/John Uskglass. Otherwise? Hrmm… I need more Raven King Ships. Any one got any suggestions?

I will say that when John does fall in love, he falls hard. He doesn’t like it. It’s such a soft, vulnerable feeling, and placing your heart into someone else’s hands, to be broken at any moment? It’s foolish, so far as he’s concerned. He is a King in Faerie, after all, he cannot afford to be vulnerable. So he tries to deny any feelings he may develop for a person, even to himself. If you do get him to the point of  admitting it though, I will say he can be absolutely doting. 

My non-romantic OTP for this character

Okay, so I’ve talked about this before, but I do headcanon Thomas of Dundale and John Uskglass as having grown up in the brugh together, pretty much. Thomas –like the naturally born extrovert that he is ;) –  kind of attached himself to John and over the years became something like an older brother to him? I can’t help but picture him as being very protective of the young Raven King, and, having been taken at an age where he could remember things, where he had developed a more human sense of right and wrong, Thomas helped provide something of a balancing point against the Fairies as John was growing up. Thomas encouraged those more human aspects of John’s character, and he was there to talk to about these aspects of himself, these more human instincts, that John might not have understood so well growing up surrounded by Fairies – empathy, compassion, caring. And that bridge that Thomas provided was so important later in John’s life, after he returned to England. It wasn’t merely language that Thomas was translating, but culture, an entire way of thinking that John didn’t fully understand yet. I mean?! Their relationship is just so important to me and how can I not love them?!

And yet, on the other hand…There’s also William of Lanchester? I mean, he’s specifically marked out as The Raven King’s Favorite and Most Trusted servant, and I can’t help but picture this guy as the most Eternally Tired man in all of Northern England. xD  William is the sensible,trustworthy, reliable one and that’s such a beautiful contrast to John Uskglass? Part of me loves the idea that a big part of why John trusts William so much is because William will say ‘No’ to him. He won’t flatter or stay quiet if he feels he needs to speak against John (see: Henry Barbatus). Does that mean John will always listen? That he’ll always appreciate William’s input? No, of course not (also see: Henry Barbatus) But he will get the truth, and that is important too.

And again, on the third hand, I really do love the whole relationship between Catherine of Winchester and John Uskglass as well. I love the idea of the Raven King as a teacher, and Catherine herself is just really awesome? And the idea of even John Uskglass being impressed at her dedication to magic, of how much he finds himself valuing her as a pupil, and growing to care about her over the coarse of their relationship, just…as a person? I feel like John Uskglass does most easily connect to other people through magic and through teaching, and I like to think that Catherine was one of his favorites…

Ughh. I can’t choose. Let’s go with all four of them hanging out in 13th century Newcastle. Yes? Yes. Good! 8D 

My unpopular opinion about this character

I’m not sure. I don’t…think I have any unpopular opinions? What are the popular ones? Are we all in agreement that the Raven King is a Melodramatic Goth Nerd and That is Why We Love him?

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this character in canon.

I want just…more in general? I mean, like more, like a whole series of historical novels focusing on the intrigues and plots surrounding the Raven King’s court. I want to see him interacting with all of these historical personages, reacting to like historical events happening, how magic and his presence changes that past? It would be *amazing* and I want it so badly!

…so  I’m prolly gonna have to write it myself xD

[draginhikari]

Final Fantasy XIV: Azure and Crimson Section 2: Kari Azuresol, Light Reborn Chapter 6: Rejection and Acceptance, The Path to Heavensward

Once Kari had fully recovered from her injures she began her journey once again.  This time heading towards the snowy lands of Coerthas in the northern lands of Eorzea.  This landscape, held by the Holy See of Ishgard, was transformed by Calamity from a mountainous forest region to a realm of endless ice and snow.  It was in this land where Kari intended to once again meet with the Doman Shinobi, Yugiri Mistwalker.  This time their meeting was less business and more of a personal matter for Kari.  Kari had arranged this get together to accept Yugiri’s previous offer to learn about the Au Ra and her homeland.   Meeting at the Observatorium, in the southeastern corner of the Coerthas Central Highlands, Kari and Yugiri enjoyed a little respite from their individual missions as Yugiri took the time to explain to Kari about the Au Ra people, the land they came from, and the differences between the two clans.  Yugiri brought a map of the east to provide to Kari, which featured both regions of Othard and Hingashi, as well as some eastern tea for Kari to try.   After a rather enjoyable and casual conversation between the two Auri.  Kari decided it was time for her to take the next step forward on her mission.

Kari smiled as she finished her tea as they sat at a table near the stove keeping the room warm, “This stuff is pretty good.  Thank you Yugiri.   Someday, I would like to see it for myself, but for now it’s at least comforting to know where I come from.” Yugiri smiled and nodded to Kari, “Tis a pleasure Kari, I understand that this must all be perplexing for you.   Tis a difficult thing to not know who you are and where you come from for so many years.  Still, I find certain things in your story hard to believe.   I had no idea that Ala Mhigian refugees had made their home on a southern island that is so close to home.”

Kari chuckled, “There isn’t much else to really say about them.  It’s enough to know that the view that Shadros’ people held of me was not the reality.   Spending a lot of years only knowing yourself as a…” Kari paused a moment before continuing, “freak.  It was definitely hard but I feel better about myself these days and that’s all that matters.”  

Yugiri sipped her tea before speaking, “If I may inquire Kari, that blue mark across your eyes? Have you always had it?” Kari ran her hand over part of the face marking for a moment, “Yes, for as long as I could remember.  Why do you ask?” Yugiri thought for a second before she shook her head, “Tis just a curiosity think pray me none.  What course of action will you take now?”

Kari went quiet for a few moments before she said, “I think it’s time I made my presence known to Alphinaud and Tataru.  I had to be certain of my path before I met with them which is why I wanted to talk to you about all this before I went ahead and did so.” Yugiri put her hand to her chest looking down for a moment before looking back at Kari, “If it is your wish.  I have business but if you can wait a time I could accompany you. Would be a simple task to vouch for your words.” Kari chuckled, “I appreciate that, but I’ve already taken up enough of your time so I will do my best to try to convince them on my own.” Yugiri nodded, “If that is your desire, I will return amidst the night and see how you have fare regardless as I worry of them as well.  Till then take care, Kari.”

Kari would part ways with the Doman Ninja glancing northward, “Camp Dragonhead.  Shadros, I’ve finally made it here.  After all this time and after all this struggling, I’m ready to stand with them like you did.”  Kari took a deep breath before she began up the path towards Camp Dragonhead. Fortunately Camp Dragonhead wasn’t all that far away from where she had been staying at the Observatorium.   Kari let her eyes wander some as she arrived at the camp.  So much of Coerthas had such a different feel from the rest of Eorzea.   The realm seemed bleak and desolate not helped by the number of weapons aimed for the sky in preparation for more conflict with the Draconian hordes of Nidhogg.   Kari only knew the basic history surrounding the Dragonsong War, a conflict going for over a millennium between the Holy See and the dragons, but she figured there would be more time to address that at a later date.   Kari found herself standing before the Camp’s headquarters.  Kari glanced inside the headquarters as she made her way inside, “Let’s see if my memory serves, Lord Haurchefant works somewhere in here.  He was the one sheltering them so he probably know where to find them.  I just hope Shadros’ letter is enough to convince him.” Kari would spy the silver haired Elezen working from his desk towards the back of the headquarters.  Haurchefant looked up as Kari approached, though he did a bit of a double take when glancing at Kari’s attire.  Haurchefant regained his composure quickly to greet her. “Welcome to Camp Dragonhead. Please, warm yourself by our hearth.  By the fury, your appearance gave me a bit of a shock, I had been expecting return of a friend who wears a familiar garb not all that different from your own.  Tell me, are a follower of the Warrior of Light? Tis a worthy role model to have in this current day and age.”  Haurchefant said as he stood up gesturing his arms out in a welcoming expression before bring them back down.   Kari chuckled finding something about the man interesting, she could only image how annoyed Shadros must have gotten at the man’s antics.

Kari would raise her hand in greeting “My name is Kari Azuresol and I suppose I am in a manner of speaking, I am a… student… of Shadros Hiku and am here on his behalf.” Haurchefant put his hand to his chin, “A student you claim?  He didn’t seem like the type to keep students.   I must admit curiosity.  Why would he send you when he has no reason not to come himself?” Kari nods and reached into her bag pulling out a letter addressed to Haurchefant specifically, “A lot has happened and it’s a bit complicated.  It might save you some time if I just give you this to read.” Haurchefant would take the letter and look at the outside, “Ah yes, tis definitely Shadros’… unique handwriting.” Kari had to hold back a snort as even Haurchefant seemed to struggle to find nice things to say about Shadros’ penmanship.   Haurchefant began to read over the letter slowly.  Kari saw his expression shift a few different times as he read through the letter as if trying to process what was being said.   Haurchefant rubbed his eyes for a moment as if to collect himself and went silent much to the confusion of some of the other knights.   After about ten minutes or so Haurchefant finally stood back up again with a more serious expression on his face, “I must ask you this Miss Azuresol.  Do you plan on continuing to follow the path that your close friend did?” Kari wasn’t sure why Haurchefant was asking her this, but Kari responded with total honesty, “Yes, absolutely.   It’s exactly what I want to do.” Haurchefant chuckled and extended his arms some, “Splendid!  Tis what I needed to hear from you,” Kari was taken aback by Haurchefant forwardness, “Wait?   That’s all you needed from me?   You aren’t the least bit curious about anything else?” Haurchefant chuckled, “Why would I?   The amount of passion and faith my friend had for you in his letter displayed I hath no reason to do otherwise.   Though I am saddened to hear of the loss of such a noble soul and a dear friend, this is not a time for mourning loss.  Would be disrespectful for me to put my feelings over his noble wishes and see you forward from here as he wished of me.”  

Kari blinked some, “Then you’ll…” Haurchefant replied before she finished her sentence, “Yes, I will permit you to visit with the Scions that are currently here.   I am still waiting to grant them access to Ishgard so this would be a good time to convince them of your case.” Kari bowed, “Thank you, Lord Haurchefant.” Haurchefant chuckled, “Think nothing of it.   Shadros was a dear friend, I consider it my duty to support my friends and those they call friends.  Especially one such as you, who is a sister to him? As such I must consider you the same.” Kari was a little surprised to hear him say that.   Kari could only wonder how different that letter must have been from the others for the knight to reach that particular conclusion.  Haurchefant would leave his desk and escort Kari the ‘Falling Snow’ as he called it where Alphinaud and Tataru were currently residing while they await word from Ishgard.   Haurchefant and Kari would go inside.   Tataru was the first to catch site of them, who was taken aback by Kari’s appearance.  Soon, Alphinaud also turned once his thoughts were broken equally taken aback by the situation.

Alphinaud looked at Haurchefant, “Is something amidst Lord Haurchefant?   Why is this woman dressed up like Shadros?  Is this some unusual Ishgardian custom that I’ve not heard of?” Haurchefant gestured to Kari, “Nay Alphinaud. This is Kari Azuresol, someone who knows Shadros quite well, and she has something of the essence to speak with you about.  I believe it best to hear it from the young lady herself.” Haurchefant would gesture to Kari before he step out of room leaving the three to their privacy.  An awkward silence would pass between the three as if none of them knew what exactly to say.   Kari finally took a deep breath deciding she had to come out clean with the two and explain what really happened.  Her lie of being Shadros’ apprentice was not going to fool someone like Alphinaud anyway.   Kari would start to tell her story beginning with how Shadros had been seeking the Hymn Venom order, the visions, his battle with the Hymn Venom order, and his very fate.

Tataru looked mortified by what she heard, “Shadro is gone too!?  No, we can’t have lost another one.  Not him too.” Alphinaud clutched his fists and glared at Kari, “You think this twisted jest is humorous!?  You expect me to believe such rubbish?   Shadros would not have kept these kind of secrets from his allies like this!” Alphinaud voice escalated and became angrier as he raised his tone, “After all we’ve be through you dare come here and speak such lies?   We have been harmed enough by deception and I won’t be deceived by you here!” Kari looked stunned trying to find her words, “But I’m…. not lying… I’ve got Shadros’…” Alphinaud knocked a glass off the table causing it to shatter which stunned Tataru as such an outburst was unlike him, “Enough, I do not know wherever you came from or what kind of game you are playing at but you have no friends here.   Be gone from our sight, Kari Azuresol, and never show yourself before us again!”  Kari froze for a moment before closing her eyes some, this wasn’t how she expected this to go.   Even if she provided Shadros’ letter now, it wasn’t likely Alphinaud would believe it.   Kari turned around and left the two alone.  

Kari returned back to cafeteria at the headquarters sitting down at one of the tables putting her head down as grumbled to herself, “This is not how this was supposed to go at all.”

Haurchefant sat across from her after a short time, “I take it that things did not go accordingly with Master Alphinaud?” Kari groaned, “No, it was an utter disaster. He wouldn’t listen to anything I said.” Haurchefant put his arms on the table looking at Kari, “Do not distress my lady, you must forgive Master Alphinaud and be relentless in your pursue.   He has been through many difficulties since the fall of the Crystal Braves and learning of Shadros’ fate liken to worsen such things.   I am certain you will convince him in due time once he given himself some time to calm.”  Before Kari could answer him as a knight of the camp approached Haurchefant and he was force to raise a hand to Kari to give him a moment, “Speak, you seem to be in distress.”

The knight said, “My Lord, the tower just spotted an attack by dragons on a supply caravan heading here from the city!  It’s utter chaos!” Haurchefant stood up, “Gather whatever units that are not currently off duty, we shall make haste!”   Haurchefant turned to Kari, “Forgive me Kari, I must see to this situation but perhaps may we talk more once this dire situation has passed. Try to keep your spirits up, Kari.” Haurchefant would go at this point.  Kari simply remained silent and put her head back down.   She wondered for a moment if she should have offered to help but she really wasn’t in the mood at the moment.   Kari simply dozed off for a short time.   Kari would snap awake when she hear a woman scream outside of the Headquarters.   Kari quickly ran outside as she heard people screaming something about dragons. Once outside, Kari caught sight of a Wyvern that was attacking the base with a small group of minor dragons. Kari glanced around, “The caravan attack must have been a diversion with the bulk of Haurchefant’s forces out the rest decided to strike at the base!”  The remaining guards were doing the best they could and other adventurers that were in the area also provided back-up to the camp.  Kari turned as the Wyvern dove down towards a few children had fallen in the snow while attempting to flee.  Kari quickly ran forward drawing the Aegis Shield to block the razor sharp talons of the Wyvern. The children looked up, fearful and stunned at Kari.  Kari shouted at them, “Don’t just sit there like a lump get to safety!”  The children would run away as the Wyvern shrieked at Kari and gritted her teeth as the wyvern swooped down at her.   Kari managed to get a slash on the wyvern wing as she moved out of the way.  Though not with enough damage to knock it out of the air.   The swoop was nothing more than a distraction by the Wyvern as several lower dragons, known as Dragonflies, descended upon Kari forcing her to content with them first.   The biting and scratching of the lower dragons were little direct threat to Kari’s heavy armor but her focus on them meant she couldn’t watch the Wyvern very closely as it slammed into Kari throwing her into the wall. Kari let out a gasp as she made contact with the wall.

Alphinaud’s Amber Carbuncle took down another dragonfly that were attacking the anti-dragon weaponry on the upper levels of the base, “Another one down, there appears to be no end to this.   Hm?” Alphinaud turned to see the Wyvern approaching Kari on the lower wall, “What in the name of the gods is she doing?  Watch out!” Kari snapped back to focus as she thrust the shield to smack the Wyvern in the face when it got too close to her with its jaws, “I’m far from done arsehole!” The Wyvern stumbled back taking to the air, lurching its head back, and released a burst of fire in Kari general direction. Kari gritted her teeth in frustration, her anger reaching a peak as she shouted, “I’m not done!  Not by a long shot!”  A spark shot through the Excalibur and Aegis as she went to defend with her shield.   Alphinaud thought Kari had snapped and completely lost her mind.   However, the flames seem to spread around her rather than going through her as Alphinaud expected as another light formed within the fiery spread.   When the wyvern’s attack dispersed, Kari stood back up slowly.   The Excalibur and Aegis were now glowing with a new energy, for the first time since Kari had taken hold of Shadros’ weapon she had finally tapped into the true power of the Zodiac Braves and unleashed their full power that Shadros had originally obtained. Alphinaud was taken aback by what he just saw, “That sword and light pattern, Shadros’ sword had the same effect.  Then that weapon isn’t a replica at all!  It’s a real Zodiac Brave!?”   Kari walk slowly towards the wyvern with a serious glare on her face.  She was entirely focused, she was not hesitating, and she was entirely in control of the power flowing through her.   The wyvern shrieked and attempted to charge Kari again but she moved to the side slashed through a chuck of the wyvern’s wing this time when it passed by her.    Causing the Wyvern to clumsily stumble out of sky and crash into the wall a complete reversal of the situation from a few moments ago.  The Wyvern roared angrily and began release balls of fire in Kari direction.   Kari began to run towards the Wyvern strafing from side to side dodging the fireballs as she moved forward as if she were able to see the path of the attacks a second before they were coming towards her.   Alphinaud continued to watch the scene play out, not believing what he was seeing, “These movements they seem similar to the manifestation of the Echo that Shadros used.  Is it possible?   Was Kari speaking truth?”   Kari reached the wyvern shouting some as the Wyvern lunged towards Kari. Kari dodged to the side growling, “Spirits Within!” The light around the Excalibur intensified as Kari thrusted the blade through the side of the Wyvern’s head.   For a moment, Alphinaud swore he saw Shadros. It wasn’t the case it was just her stance, her attack method, and her power seemed extremely similar to Shadros’ own, too much to be a coincidence.  The wyvern’s eyes widen for a split second before the wyvern flopped down to the ground.  Kari drew her sword from the Wyvern’s head panting heavily as she recover from the sudden adrenaline rush.   Kari glanced down at her sword, “I did it, the Zodiac Brave’s power has finally awoken for me.   Shadros, I did it…” Kari groaned as she slid to the ground, “I hope it’s not always going to be this draining to do.” With the Wyvern down the lesser dragons would begin to scatter or were easily taken down by the knights still at the base.

Haurchefant returned to the base with his men to wrap the situation up.   Haurchefant personally defending Kari from a few stranglers going after her.  Afterward, Haurchefant turned his gaze to Kari and the Wyvern, “Ah, my friend it seems I left you to clean up an unintended mess, my apologies.”

Kari groaned some, “Can’t talk… recovering…” Haurchefant chuckled some, “Of course my friend, as I suspected you have just much spirit as Shadros did and the ferocity to boot to take a Wyvern that large single handedly.  Thank you, my friend, you likely saved a few lives by choosing to get involved like you did.”  

“I must admit my impression as well,” Kari turned to see Alphinaud approaching the two, “I assumed you merely a charlatan but based on your actions just now it appears my initial judgments may have been on the… hastily side.”  Kari just looked at Alphinaud unable to speak much yet.   Alphinaud looked to her, “When you are ready.  Come back to room, I will here you out again.   I want to understand fully what has happened with an open mind.  You’ve earn that much today.” Alphinaud would return to the chambers at this point.   Kari just seemed kind of surprised as she stood back up putting her sword and shield back in their place.

Haurchefant chuckled some, “Well, my friend, it seems you now have a second chance to make your case.   Alphinaud seemed to be in a better mood now so I wouldn’t waste your opportunity here.” Kari nodded, “Right.”

Kari would return to the chamber with Alphinaud and Tataru.  She would retell her story and fill in some of the gaps she left out in the story earlier. Once Kari had finished her story she reached into her bag and revealed the final letter from Shadros and provided it to Alphinaud who would sit down and read through the letter carefully.

Alphinaud and Tataru,

If you are reading this letter it means that my personal mission to end the Hymn Venom Order has failed and I have fallen.  

I owe you all an apology.   It was never my intention to hide so many secrets from the Scions but I didn’t want anyone else getting hurt in my private matters.  In the end I was not strong enough it seems to fulfill the role I was given.  The truth is the power I held was not originally mine to wield in the first place but rather was a combination of circumstance and my close friendship of the young woman who has likely handed you this letter.  The manifestation of the Echo I wielded was Kari’s soul united for a time as a result of a horrible tragedy.   Kari gave me an extension on my life and with her help I would become the Warrior of Light that you would know me as, together we became unstoppable.   However, it was simply not meant to be. Whatever boundaries we broke, the power of the echo needed to be properly restored.

Please, do not blame Kari for what has happened to me.   She tried to stop me from pursing her but I would not listen. I could not ignore the guilt I had for allowing all this to transpire and followed what my heart was telling me to do.   Whether successful or not I had to try to resolve this issue with my own hands.  This was greatly selfish of me and I do it knowing so.   However, I did not do so recklessly and believe Kari will want to continue where I left off.   Kari is young and inexperienced, this much is true.   However, Kari possess a potential that could easily surpass my own but only if she has the guidance to lead her down the right path.   I have left Kari my memories, my experiences, and my Zodiac Brave.   She has gone far and wide to seeking those that could help her learn and knowing her she has now come before you far different person then how I left her.   Yet still, she has much left to learn.

My final request of you, my friends.   Please accept Kari among you, let her grow, change, and become the person she always wanted to be.   She will be the Warrior of Light you all have been truly waiting for.  I truly believe that.

P.S. – Alphinaud please give my regards to your sister and… I am sorry that I failed to keep my promise to her too.  

Sincerely,

Shadros Hiku Alphinaud sat quietly for several minutes re-reading the letter from Shadros a few times.   Before he finally stood up again looking at Kari, “Tell me Miss Azuresol, what is it that you want to do?” Kari looked at Alphinaud answering him like she had earlier in the day to Haurchefant, “I wish to continue where my friend left off.   I want to help his friends, clear his name, and continue protect my new home here in any way I can.  I want the power to be able to do that.” Alphinaud tilted his head moving his hands to his chin in thought, “There is a certain sincerity in the words you speak but I am still uncertain on whether to believe them or not.”  Kari frowned but the door would open again and a voice would speak out as it did. “Perhaps my words, Master Alphinaud, would settle your doubts,” Yugiri stepped in along with, surprisingly Aya.

Alphinaud turned to Yugiri slightly stunned, “You know of this Lady Yugiri?” Yugiri nods, “I do.   This woman is Aya, she is a shinobi I recommended to Shadros when he was seeking help with his personal matters with the Hymn Venom Order.   Shadros had also spoken to me on the matter on a number of occasions.” Alphinaud said, “And you decided not to inform us on such matters?” Yugiri said, “It seemed unnecessary as though I did not understand what he meant and he requested me to stay silent on the matter.  After all Shadros had done, I feel he deserved at least that level of respect.   Though I not know to the extent of his plans.   He inquired of my race and his connection to a girl he had seen in his vision.  He descripted to me a young woman of Kari’s appearance.  He could list nearly every feature to me as if she were standing before me.   Shadros requested that if something went wrong that I could provide him a trinket to help me identify her if she escaped the order.  That is exactly what transpired and why I did not hesitate for a moment to help Kari find her way.  Aya has agreed to step forward and speak on the validity of the story and confirm the nature of Kari’s character”.  Kari was a little surprised by that, that Aya would stick her neck out for her so easily. Aya bowed slightly, “Master Alphinaud, I have been with Kari since she first appeared several weeks back and I was the one who worked with Shadros on his personal mission.   I found the information on the Hymn Venom Order, accompanied Shadros to investigate the information and was the last to see him before his disappearance where he gave me a key to his belongings to give to a girl matching Kari’s description when she appeared before me.  Whether you fully believe my story or not, Kari has already proven her worth on more than one occasion.   Not only has she progressed in power faster than anyone I’ve seen.   She unselfishly engaged in a battle she did not have to and saved a group of young women from abuse, manipulation, and assault. She even defeated a notorious criminal single handedly.  She’s still a little bit green around the gills that’s for sure, but she bravely stood against a criminal far more experienced and powerful then she was and still managed to come out on top.   I would trust Kari with my life at this point and there are about a dozen young women that could say the same.”  Aya handed Alphinaud small stack of papers.   Kari couldn’t tell what they were but with the different handwriting they appeared to be testimonials from different people.   The entire thing just surprised Kari even more.   Did Aya really do all this for her? Alphinaud listened and gestured to two shinobi, “I will take your council into consideration.”  Aya would bow again and prepared to leave giving Kari a wink and her usual smirk dropping her polite act for a moment before she left.   Alphinaud was quiet for a few more minutes. Tataru looked at Kari then at Alphinaud, “Alphinaud, I think I’m more then convinced, I think we should give her a chance.” Alphinaud stated, “Given the circumstances of our current predicament to turn down willing help would be a perplexing choice for sure.” Alphinaud looked back at Kari, “Miss Azuresol, you do understand that we walk a difficult path and that there is no guarantee of success in any sense of the word.   Is that a risk you are willing to take?” Kari chuckled and gestured towards Alphinaud, “If I wasn’t I wouldn’t be putting myself through all this right now.   I need to live for both Shadros and myself now.   I don’t plan on giving up.” Alphinaud finally let a small smile show, “Very well, Miss Azuresol, then I will allow you to accompany us to Ishgard and will expect you to demonstrate your words on the trials ahead.   Understand, I am still hesitant to entirely trust you.  If your words are true however, I hope to be free of such hesitation soon enough.” Kari crossed her arms and nods, “That’s all I can ask and I prefer that anyway.   Though I do have one request.” Alphinaud seemed a bit surprised, “And that would be?” Kari squinted her nose in annoyance and stated, “No more of this Miss Azuresol stuff all right?   My name is Kari okay?  The formalities give me a headache.”

Alphinaud was taken aback as if he wasn’t expecting her to be so forward, “Yes, of course.   My apologies.  Very well, Kari.”

Tataru approached Kari and held out a linkpearl for her, “Welcome aboard, Kari.”  Kari would take the linkpearl with a slight smile.  Kari had actually done it, after so much work she was finally on the way to starting her mission.

Alphinaud stated, “We still awaiting official word from Lord Haurchefant on when we can enter Ishgard. Once that time arrives we will contact you on the linkpearl.   Once we contact, you please make haste as we will not be able to wait upon you for long.” Kari chuckled, “Very well, don’t worry you won’t be waiting up for me.”  Tataru would clap some and Yugiri would nod to Kari before she too left the scene.  Haurchefant provided Kari a bed in the barracks to stay for the night.   The following morning Kari rose and grumbled as she wrapped her arms around herself, “Sheesh, another cold morning.” She reached for the Paladin Soul Crystal to get her armor on as quickly as she could before she stood up and walked outside noticing that the weather was actually calm this morning.   Kari decided to take a walk and she made her way to the west from Camp Dragonhead.   Kari would stop as she turned towards the Gate of Judgement that lead towards the City-State of Ishgard stopping for a moment looking towards the magnificent and ancient city in the distance. There was something impressive about the city, yet she had a feeling of dread when she looked upon it for reasons she could not directly explain.   A burst of aetheric energy released as Midgardsormr suddenly appeared alongside her again.   Kari looked towards the ancient Wyrm for a moment before turning back to the city.   She didn’t even have to ask him why he was here.   Midgardsormr gave a monotonous chuckle as he spoke, “Heh Heh Heh.  Thou thinkest sanctuary lieth beyond?  Delusion. Despair.  Death.  Thou shalt find naught else here.”  Kari expression grimaced some as she heard Midgardsormr’s words.   She would normally have questioned the ramblings of the Wyrmking but for whatever reason she believed his words on that matter. Midgardsormr would soon disappear and Kari turned back to make her way to Camp Dragonhead.   Kari stopped a short distance from the camp looking towards some cliffs near the camp feeling like she was being watched for a moment but saw nothing.   Kari shrugged some wondering if she was just hearing things before she continued towards the camp.  Upon leaving a figure stepped forth, the Azure Dragoon of Ishgard, Estinien Wyrmblood.   Estinien glanced down at the Eye of Nidhogg he was carrying that seemed to have lead him to this place.

“The eye reacts to a third?   No, that is impossible.   This feeling is familiar, tis like the day Shadros Hiku first appeared before me.  That woman was dressed like him as well.”  Estinien looked down at the eye again, “What is the connection?  No matter.   I will find out one way or another.” Estinien leapt off up to a higher cliff as another snow storm masked his exit.  

Kari shielded her eyes as she glanced upward to the stormy skies when she arrived back at Camp Dragonhead, “This is only the beginning of my struggle… isn’t it Shadros?”  The Scion linkpearl would go off and Kari would take it out and look at it, “It’s time…” Kari would begin to make her way back to the room where Alphinaud and Tataru awaited her arrival.  Kari’s journey as the new Warrior of Light had just begun.

To preserve the dawn’s light the Heroes journeyed north.  Their hearts filled with hope and eyes fixed Heavensward!

End of Section 2: Kari Azuresol, Light Reborn

Section 2 - Chapter 5: Duty Commenced! Life or Death Dance upon the Silver Waves

Final Fantasy XIV: Azure and Crimson Complete  

Section 3 - Chapter 1: Azure Dragoon and Iceheart (Coming Soon)

[mysticsparklewings]

Aurora Inktense

I just couldn't let go of the idea I felt like I'd failed to realize on my Arteza Watercolor Polaroids; the image of some snowy evergreen trees with the Aurora Borealis behind them. And since I had some supplies I wanted to revisit anyway, I decided it was worth a second attempt using a few different techniques. This is a sort of follow-up to when I originally tested out the Derwent Inktense colored pencils, as even then I knew I wanted to do more experimenting with them and get more colors to work with. I haven't done much since the original drawing with them primarily because of the limited 18-color palette I originally had. But I have managed to finally get my hands on a 12 set to expand my color selection a little, thanks to clearance prices induced by needing to clear shelf space at my local Michael's. And so I figured it was about time to revisit the pencils as a whole and see if anything new came up or if anything from my original impressions had changed. I'll be honest, I went into the swatches and this drawing with the new pencils with heightened curiosity and an open mind, as since last time I was working with a set that was showing its age in a few different ways. For all I knew, the newer pencils could've provided a totally different experience from the old ones. Funnily enough, no, my experience was largely the same. To be fair, I remembered from my experience last time and knew from all instances of just swatching the pencils that, especially for the price you pay, the Inktense pencils are pretty underwhelming as just colored pencils. They can't do anything better than Prismacolor can in that department. So I didn't waste my time on a new dry/colored pencil format only drawing with them, and instead jumped straight away into using them with water, which still seems to be the place they shine brightest. Just to deviate for a second before I get into that, though; I noticed during my swatching and some less pretty testing that the new Inktense pencils had the same issue I'd had with the older ones; when you start to really apply pressure and pile on the color/pigment, the pencils have almost a "sticky" type feeling to them and some of the pigment sort of grinds itself into the paper, and it looks pretty weird. There's just a lot of friction between the pencil and the paper in an uncomfortable way. I wouldn't say it's a dealbreaker, but it is something to watch out for and just another reason I don't think these are worth investing in if you're not going to use them with water. Speaking of which... I started by stamping my trees on some watercolor paper--and not the dinky stuff, this is nice 100% cotton cold pressed paper, so it has enough texture for colored pencils and can handle plenty of water--masked said trees with some washi tape, and then I scribbled in some rough color placement with the pencils, knowing the pigment would spread pretty far once it got wet and that no matter what I did I'd probably be doing a lot of back and forth between smoothing/blending out the colors and adding more. I was reminded pretty quickly of the fact that compared to regular watercolor pencils, the Inktense pencils take more water to melt the color down, as well as sometimes if you press too firmly when you put the color down initially, the pencil strokes may not want to fully melt anyway. In this case, that issue had its uses, given the traditional look of the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, but if you like super smooth blending and you want the colored pencil texture to completely go away when you hit the color with water, I have to strongly suggest staying away from these. After wetting my first scribbly layer, I started the cycle that I knew was coming and started scribbling a little bit here, a little there, on the still-wet paper. This and dipping the tips of the pencils into the water and then scribbling with them tend to be the better ways to work with them, at least from my experience. Taking a brush to the pencil tip and/or applying the pencil and then wetting it with a brush works fine for lighter washes, but the best color payout comes from, like I said, either taking the pencil directly to wet paper or dipping the pencil tip in water to make it into a creamy, oil-pastel type consistency. I did a lot of dipping the tip into water and using that combined with the wet paper to blend out my colors, and I have to say while the white Inktense pencil still fails to impress me on its own, it does work pretty nicely as a blender, at least when it's wet. Beyond what I've already mentioned, the main issues I had while working on this piece mostly came down to getting the right color depth/intensity where I wanted it and making sure everything blended out the way I wanted, which was all more on me than it was the pencils. Once I was pretty much finished with the Inktense portion of the picture before it dried I was still a little bit iffy on how it looked. It was still more streaky than I was convinced it should've been, and I wasn't entirely sure about the colors themselves being what I'd hoped for either. But I let it dry overnight and I felt a lot better about it when I came back to it the next day. Maybe it just needed to dry and settle, maybe I just needed to refresh my eyes, maybe both; I don't know. Still, I went in and did my best to do the star-splatter with the white Inktense pencil. And while this does technically work, it takes a lot longer and loads more patience than just grabbing my bottle of white Speedball ink would've, but I refrained in the name of experimentation and trying to push the Inktense a bit farther. It's also weirdly not as precise, since the Inktense pigment really doesn't like leaving the pencil, so it comes off as a little thicker on the brush and therefore has less good star-producing taps in it then the liquid ink does. Needless to say, I did end up touching that up a little with a white gel pen, as always. Then I unmasked my trees and filled in some spots/went back over some that weren't black enough with a Copic multiliner and did my signature with it as well so it wouldn't be too distracting. After that, since I had originally drawn out a circle as the share I wanted to work in, I cut the circle out and just for ambiance I went along the exposed edge of the paper with a black marker. In the end, the final product does look quite nice and I feel more like I've properly seen this idea through. (Although I make no promises this will be the last time it pops up in my gallery. ) Still, my opinion on the Inktense remains pretty firm that they are a unique, albeit pretty fun thing to play with when you use them with water. But if you're not going to do that, I wouldn't bother investing in them when there are plenty of other options out there that do the plain colored pencil job a lot better. Even Derwent has like four or five different artist-grade pencil lines to choose from just for that purpose if you're extremely loyal to them as a brand for some reason. For me and my purposes though, I would still like to get my hands on the full 72 set at some point and I do think I will continue to play around with them in the meantime. They're interesting and they do have their uses for me as someone who tends to favor mixed-media art. I'm really excited for the next piece I've got going up for you guys though; it turned out so well and I can't wait to share it! And of course, I have some projects in the works that I hope end up being equally exciting, so keep an eye out for what's coming up. ____ Artwork © me, MysticSparkleWings ____ Where to find me & my artwork: My Website | Commission Info + Prices | Ko-Fi | dA Print Shop | RedBubble |   Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram

[mariaclaragomez276]

Where the SLH Team are dreaming of spending Christmas

We’ve had to use our imaginations for most of 2020 when it comes to travel, stocking up on inspiration for when we can explore the world again. While we’re planning to stay closer to home this holiday season, the most magical time of the year has us dreaming of snowy or sunnier settings – here’s the SLH Team’s Christmas wish list.

We’re dreaming of a White Christmas…

Daniel Luddington – Vice President of Development

I would head to Swedish Lapland for a Scandinavian Christmas beneath the Northern Lights at Arctic Bath, one of our newest and coolest additions to the SLH portfolio – think floating cabins, star-gazing decks and real life reindeer with a traditional Sámi herder.

Christopher Grime – Head of Product Integration

The romantic in me likes a cold and perhaps also snowy Christmas. Carol and I spent a few days in the Cotswolds in late November last year at Dormy House and whilst there was no snow, the Christmas trees were up, the smell of open log fires pervaded the air and hot chocolate or hot toddies were the order of the day. It would be lovely to go back there.

My other choices would be El Lodge Ski and Spa as I have never skied in Spain before; Hotel Rangá in Iceland for the Northern Lights and hot tub under the stars; Storfjord Hotel in Norway for those views of the fjord by the patio fire pan…and perhaps some Storfjordbrygg – an ale produced for the hotel and served nowhere else – what’s not to like; Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant in Gothenburg – I have only been to Stockholm in Sweden and I loved that, so I would love to give Gothenburg a try; and finally Hotel Lilla Roberts in Finland – I love the Art deco style and for some reason I am strangely drawn to the concept of a traditional Finnish sauna followed by ice swimming!

Rafael Pirassinunga – Operations Manager – World of Hyatt Partnership

I’d love to spend Christmas at Terelj Hotel, just outside of Ulaanbaatar. Mongolia has always fascinated me and as a proper Grinch I’d like to spend Christmas in a non-Christmassy location, social distancing from the world. It combines all the wild beauty and serenity of the steppe with comfort and services of a luxury hotel –  what’s not to like? Plus, winter is also the season for eagle hunting which is one of the coolest things in the world I’d like to experience.

Abi Tottenham-Smith – Head of Social Media

I am a big lover of a cold, snowy Christmas. I have only ever been abroad somewhere hot over Christmas once in Vietnam, and it was pretty miserable to be honest – for me, Christmas just isn’t the same in the heat, and away from family! Therefore, I would love to spend Christmas with my family at one of the SLH ski hotels. Miramonti Boutique Hotel has been on my list for a while, purely for the photos of the swimming pool and the ‘relaxation room’ but it looks even cosier in the winter, and the perfect place to spend the holiday season!

Jemima O’Lone – Digital Content and Design Manager

My travel plans have been thin on the ground this year, like everyone else, and I have longed for a hot weather holiday! However, I just can’t tear myself away from mountains, snow and open fires in the winter! So it would have to be Storfjord Hotel in Norway or any one of our beautiful ski hotels.

Chloe Frost-Smith – Digital Image & Content Executive

Although I am almost certainly Vitamin-D deprived after this year, I would always still opt for a white Christmas on the slopes – it’s hard to beat a Christmas Day ski! Le Coucou Méribel looks incredibly stylish as well as cosy, and the French really know how to celebrate when it comes to festive food. Thinking closer to home, retreating to Inverlochy Castle in the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands for the holiday season would be top of my list, for both Christmas and Hogmanay.

Gabor Toth – Global Training and EMEA Revenue Account Manager

I would like to spend the holiday season at Le Grand Bellevue, Gstaad – you have pretty much everything you want on your doorstep. Apart from being surrounded by hundreds of kilometres of ski pistes, the location offers you everything from restaurants to shops, to events for all ages. I would also enjoy the hotel’s own spa after skiing all day and in case you’re too tired or lazy, you can dine in at the hotel, where you can choose from their Michelin-starred menu, featuring amazing sushi or traditional Swiss cuisine.

Patrick Pieters – Senior Revenue Account Manager – EMEA

It would have to be Nimb Hotel in Copenhagen for me – the Christmas lights in the Tivoli Gardens are a must see!

Floriana Cosentino – Revenue Account Manager EMEA

I would love to stay at Crossbasket Castle in Scotland. I have never been yet unfortunately, and love the idea of staying in a traditional Scottish castle. Their rooms look so spacious, warm and full of character. It has lovely grounds and a river just by it, with a little terrace where I would love to have my tea. I can imagine it all “Christmassy” with their special festive package –  this would make me feel it is Christmas at its best.

Crystal Davies – Senior Revenue Account Manager – APAC

I would like to spend Christmas in Eichardt’s Private Hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand. The hotel is located right in front of Lake Wakatipu, the longest lake in New Zealand which is 380m deep. The water temperature is about 15 degrees even in summer, it is so deep that it never gets warmed up! Christmas is rather hot in Australia where I live, so it would be the perfect place to escape the heat.

The hotel main building has mountain and lake view suites, and the Penthouse is on the top floor with the most amazing bathtub overlooking the lake. The hotel has a fine dining restaurant, a recently opened spa, and is in a superb location, with many shops, high end and casual dining options available within walking distance.

The amount of activities I would be able to do nearby the hotel is impressive. Many water sports and sky diving can be arranged, along with the longest bungy jump (134m) in New Zealand which also happens to be in Queenstown. If you are not so extreme, walking by the lake is just lovely. The hotel has a luxury yacht, Pacific Jemm, which takes you out for a day tour or sunset cruise – a nice way to spend Christmas with family and friends. You can be very active or relaxed during your stay, I highly recommend it.

Anna-Lisa Hafgren-Willis – Regional Manager – Americas & Travel Trade Relations Manager

I would love to experience a European Christmas market and doing so amidst the medieval walls of Tallinn would be a double treat. Returning to the lovely Hotel St. Petersbourg for a sauna and cocktail by a fireplace would be magical.

Lita Moreno – Sales Manager, Southeast USA

I would love to spend Christmas anywhere where there is snow – Stein Eriksen Residences in Utah, Le Grand Bellevue in Gstaad or Le Coucou Méribel. I don’t really ski but would love to do other activities, explore the towns nearby and get cosy in front of a fire place at night. I live in Florida so it’s quite hard to get into the Christmas spirit when it’s warm!

Katrin Holtkott – Barter Room Co-ordinator

Please put me down for Storfjord Hotel in Norway (happy to share it with any of my colleagues!) I love the Nordic design and décor, I will feel even closer to Santa Claus, and the idea of long hikes through the snow and forests with an open fire and cosy blankets waiting on my return, a good book and a glass of wine or hot chocolate (or both!) – what could be better for a Christmas break?

April Lee Smith – Group Accounts Assistant

I would stay at the Stein Eriksen Residences in the USA. The mountainous snow and wooded exterior give it an old school American Christmas movie feel. I can just imagine spending a few days here with the family.

Sunny Season’s Greetings…

Barbara Levedag – Vice President Business Development EMEA

Regarding Christmas wishes, I shall be joining the sun seekers amongst us – and my choice would be The Plettenberg by The Liz McGrath Collection. I’ve been lucky enough to have visited ‘The Plett’ once in June 2019 – a stay too short. My heart beats for the stellar beauty that is South Africa.

Situated along one of the country’s many incredible sights – the Garden Route – the hotel enjoys a prime position right on one of the many beautiful white sandy beaches around the small town of Plettenberg. Watch the Indian and the Atlantic Ocean meet – including whales (seasonally) and dolphins if you’re lucky from the hotel’s beautiful terrace or from one of their delightful Corner Suites.

The property’s feel good vibes coupled with a genuine friendliness of a wonderful team invite instant relaxation in a picture-perfect beachfront setting.

Oswaldo Sampaio – Head of Quality Assurance

Whilst all of our SLH hotels would make a wonderful home-from-home during the holiday season, given the opportunity there is one hotel in our portfolio where I would spend my annual leave – at Baros Maldives. Despite the isolation in the middle of the Indian Ocean they have very strong Wi-Fi so one could even stay there to WFM – ‘work from Maldives!’

The property opened in 1973 – it is a grand dame that has stood the test of time and aged truly gracefully by renovating, adding new facilities and staying on trend with the latest features in modern hospitality. Their facilities are second to none and the service, provided by their long-standing staff, is unforgettable. Our best senior inspectors left Baros Maldives in awe: awarded the 2017 Resort Hotel of the Year by SLH, I came to Baros with pretty high expectations. My experience at this hotel sets the benchmark of what an SLH experience should be – it was nothing short of amazing. Very proper, traditional hospitality in paradise, a well-oiled operation that I can’t wait to experience again one day.

Suzanne Drew – Director SLH Finance and Data Protection Officer

I would like to spend Christmas at The Sandpiper, after a year of feeling trapped inside and seeing very little sun, Barbados would provide a welcome respite from the gloomy UK winter.  The smell and sound of the Caribbean Sea, a Rum Sour from Harold’s Bar and the sunshine on my skin are what I need.

Joanna Renwick – Executive PA to CEO

I would love to spend the holiday season on Petit St. Vincent Island with my family. I grew up in the West Indies on the island of Grenada and Christmas for me was always a huge family occasion – my favourite part was always Boxing Day on the beach with all of our family and friends. You’d often see Santa whizzing past on water skis!

This year has been really hard not being able to see my family because of COVID-19 and it has me craving the beautiful white beaches, warm sunshine and the scent of spices in the air.

Maddy Morgan – Director of PR Worldwide

I have never spent Christmas somewhere hot and having missed out on all my holidays this year a tropical Christmas is definitely on the cards. I would love to go to Calala Island in NiCaribbean and completely switch off in one of the four suites at this ultra all-inclusive hideaway while my kids are entertained by pirate treasure hunts. Maybe I’d take over the whole island for the ultimate festive reunion!

Jessica Sparkes – Head Of Digital Performance

A usual Christmas for me is always a big family occasion, so it would need to be at a UK country house with beautiful grounds for walking off all the turkey and trimmings. However, as with everyone else this year, I am seriously craving some holiday sunshine. I would love to do something a bit different and escape the UK, traveling far, far away to the Cook Islands – staying at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki, swapping mulled wine for beach cocktails!

Laura Bizayi – Senior Digital Campaign Manager

Huvafen Fushi Maldives – because we have just been speaking about where we’d love to be right now! Maldives is on my hit-list anyway, but after the past year – the lockdowns, the current gloomy UK weather – I’d love to take isolation to a whole new level by lounging in my lagoon bungalow with 360 degree views of the ocean, basking in all of the sunshine I am so yearning for.

Viola Azzolini – Revenue Account Management Team Director

I would love to spend the holidays at The Norman Tel Aviv because it is pure luxury but not pretentious, small but with all the ‘essential’ services (a rooftop terrace with swimming pool, restaurant in an elegant outdoor terrace), just a stroll away from the lovely Neve Tzedek neighbourhood. Not my typical Christmas because normally it would be in the cold mountains of northern Italy but I think that we all need a change to our routine after this year.

Chloe Musumeci – Senior Revenue Account Manager – EMEA

During the Christmas time I dream of being in one of the suites at Le Barthélemy Hotel and Spa, ideally in the beautiful La Suite Plage with walk-out access to the beach. There is nowhere I’d rather be!

Isabel Urdiales – Senior Revenue Account Manager – EMEA

I would like to enjoy some winter sun at La Sultana Marrakech, and experience their one-of-a-kind festive programme, which includes a 50-minute massage and lots of other treats. They also offer bespoke experiences during the holidays like hiking or e-biking in the Atlas mountains or discovering the Agafay desert. Apparently you can also book to have a Christmas tree in your room!

Jill Liu – Sales Manager, China

I would like to stay in one of our Maldives hotels, for example Milaidhoo Island Maldives, just purely to enjoy the sunshine, blue skies, and white sandy beaches. I would also like to stay in one of our hotels with a cosy fireplace like Hotel Haven or Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge, with a simple blanket and a book close being warmed by the fire.

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