#rooibos tea buy online

[solshop]

Unlocking the Magic of White Tea: 10 Health and Wellness Benefits

Unlocking the Magic of White Tea: 10 Health and Wellness Benefits

Here are 10 potential benefits of white tea:

High in Antioxidants: White tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

2.Supports Skin Health: Antioxidants in white tea may help slow down the aging process, keeping your skin looking youthful.

3.Weight Management: Some studies suggest that white tea may help with weight management by increasing metabolism and reducing fat cell growth.

4.Heart Health: White tea may improve cardiovascular health by lowering the risk of heart disease, reducing high blood pressure, and improving cholesterol levels.

5.Cancer Prevention: The antioxidants in white tea may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, although more research is needed.

6.Oral Health: White tea may help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, potentially preventing dental issues.

7.Antimicrobial Properties: It has natural antimicrobial properties, which can help protect against infections.

8.Stress Reduction: Some compounds in white tea may have a calming effect and help reduce stress and anxiety.

9.Better Focus: The caffeine content in white tea can improve alertness and concentration without the jitters associated with other caffeinated beverages.

10.Improved Immune Function: The antioxidants in white tea may enhance your immune system's ability to fight off infections.

[spicezen]

Discover the Rich Flavor of Authentic Rooibos Tea!

Naturally caffeine-free and packed with antioxidants, this vibrant herbal tea offers a unique, sweet flavor profile. Perfect for any time of day, rooibos tea promotes relaxation and wellness. Sip on a cup and enjoy its delicious health benefits today!

[askallianything]

[Funeral Event Opener]

Alli was in a cheery mood despite it being the date of her own funeral. But "funeral" was just the name she was using for it. It was more so.... a self indulgent party with coffins and flowers.

She sent invitations out to just about everyone but the boring general students. Alli wanted as many people as possible to come and celebrate her. And she wanted to make sure they had fun too. She skipped all her morning classes (which isn't anything new) just to decorate the dark Obscuary forest with lanterns and ribbons. When she was looking for the lost "leafy guy" weeks ago, she found a nice clearing in the woods adjacent to a river- the perfect place to hold her funeral.

After weeks of selling feet pictures online, she finally had enough to buy herself a pretty coffin and a pretty dress! Her coffin was black with delicately carved wood embroidery. Red velvet cushions lined the inside as silver accents accentuated the exterior. Her dress, like the coffin, and her hair, was mostly black with red as a secondary color. It was of the gothic lolita variety- having a pigeon-breasted top with lace embroideries and multiple ruffled layers. Her waist was sinched with a small corset, complimenting the puffy layers shaping her. The skirt of her dress was just a few inches above the knee. Which would usually feel too modest for Alli... but she remembers being told before that a modest dress code is a big part of funerals.

She didn't originally plan on it, but she decided to stock up on a few snacks. For the guests. She even brought non-toxic flowers for Towa and plain, boring, rooibos tea - just in case Jiro came. Alli didn't want anyone leaving early just because they were hungry! She did a gracious amount of accommodation for guests considering this party was supposed to be about her. Alli didn't even bring her snakes! Though, of course, she brought her beloved Kithy along. Every boy deserves to be invited to his mother's funeral.

Along with guest accommodations, Alli also worked relentlessly on the playlist for the occasion. She wanted the playlist to reflect her inside and out, for it to be so impactful that anytime someone hears "There’s a Good Reason These Tables Are Numbered Honey, You Just Haven’t Thought of It Yet" by Panic! At the Disco, they burst into tears from the overwhelming emotions attached to Alli's funeral.

After triple-checking that everything was in tip-top shape, she sent out a doodled map to all of her WickChat contacts. If no one showed up, she could just blame it on the map instead of spiraling into convincing herself that everyone hates her.

Everything was in order. Now all she has to do is wait for people to arrive!

[wheretheharekissesthefox]

The hand that feeds is the hand that's loved

Chapter 4: Curry not

Astarion's an aspiring lawyer, who's running from his past and suffers from a long list of food allergies. Gale's a former culinary prodigy, who's going through a nasty divorce and suffers from cooking fatigue. They meet in the snack aisle.

Trigger Waring (18+): Alternate Universe: Modern Setting, No Magic, No Vampire, No Wizard, Lawyer Astarion, Cook Gale, Astarion Has Food Allergies, Gale Is Depressed, Astarion Everything Is A Transaction Ancunin, Unnecessary Cooking And Food Details, This Is Basically A Culinary Show, Author Constantly Thinks About Food, Food As A Love Language, POV Astarion, Emotional Rollercoaster, Feelings, Overthinking, PTSD, Dissociation, Past Domestic Abuse, Past Non-Con/Rape, Unhealthy Coping Mechanism, Blow Job/Fellatio

Read on AO3

With a huff, Astarion banged open the door of his apartment, kicked off his shoes, and manoeuvred the shopping bags into the kitchen. He hated to go grocery shopping in the evenings. There were always too many people in the supermarket. Sighing deeply, Astarion sat everything down on the counter. It was time to meal prep.

Since he suffered from so many food allergies and food sensitivities, it was literally impossible to eat out or order in. He had to make every single meal he ate himself, or otherwise, he'd spent the next seventy-two hours in agony. Switching between curling up in bed in the foetus position, and hunching over the toilet, ejecting his entire stomach content one way or another. And all that while running a fever, breaking out in cold sweat, trembling like a leaf, and gripped by stomach cramps. Yeah, no thank you. He had had enough of that during his childhood and teen years. Never again.

Astarion took out his phone and logged into the GobblingGoblin online store to place his usual order of items he couldn't buy at GlutMart: dried wakame seaweed, toasted (with olive oil instead of sesame oil) nori seaweed snacks, vegan chocolate bars with cherries, dried porcini mushrooms, orange-flavoured rooibos iced tea sweetened with agave syrup, and gluten-free, vegan saltine crackers. He winced at the price, but nonetheless paid via PayMate. With that out of the way, Astarion started meal prepping. He washed, halfway peeled, and sliced the fresh cucumbers. He filled them into five glass containers with airtight lids, of which each one could fit exactly one sliced cucumber and a small jar of salad dressing. Astarion whipped up the latter in a bigger bowl, mixing together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper, before dividing it into the five small jars. He sprinkled some frozen, pre-chopped chives and caraway seeds over the cucumber slices before adding the little sauce jars on top and snapping the lids shut. Astarion placed his weekly ration of salad in the fridge. He cooked a fresh batch of white rice to store for later use as well. Meanwhile, he prepared his dinner with the last bit of what was left over from the last portion. In a microwave-safe serving bowl, he created a soup base with vegetable bouillon powder, pepper, and some boiling water from the electric kettle. Then, he added some dried wakame seaweed and the leftover rice, mixing it all thoroughly before topping everything off with some more boiling water. Dinner was served. With a sigh, Astarion slumped onto a chair at the kitchen table and started eating. He didn't cook to woo and wow people with fancy creations. He cooked to survive, using his scarce ingredient options to make meals that were tasty enough to eat every day without triggering his gag reflex when smelling them. He and Gale were not the same. Unenthusiastically, Astarion supped the too-familiar soup and was grateful as it warmed his body from the inside out. When he'd finished it, he hunted down the second-to-last chocolate bar in his pantry and munched it while his mind drifted off, once again occupying itself with thoughts about Gale. Groaning, Astarion ran a hand down his face. He had kissed him in the park and agreed to a goddamn date! Falling for a client was an absolute no-go, especially when their case wasn't closed yet. Thankfully, he'd been professional on Monday during their meeting and had shook Gale's hand instead of kissed him again.

"Get your shit together, Ancunín," Astarion scolded himself. The last thing he needed was getting into trouble because his dick did the thinking instead of his head. As if to taunt him, his phone vibrated to notify him of a message from his favourite client.

Gale Dekarios: Good evening, Mister Ancunín, I'm sorry to bother you so late, but I have a couple of questions. Do you like chocolate? Can you eat freeze-dried cherries and berries? Do you also have a negative reaction to pickled onions? Can you eat garlic if it's cook for over an hour? I'm looking forward to hear from you :) Sincerely, Gale

For a moment, the lawyer stared at the message as if it could bite him. What the hell were these questions? He finally unfroze from his paralysis and typed out a reply.

Astarion Ancunín: Hello, Mister Dekarios. Yes, I like chocolate. I can eat freeze-dried cherries and berries. I don't know about the onion and garlic thing because I've never tried it before. Also, no one ever cooked garlic for so long, just the normal amount of time? I don't know how to answer that question. Why do you want to know anyway? Are you thinking about me while you're cooking? ;) Have a nice evening.

Stop flirting, you idiot! Astarion cringed inwardly about his own stupidity. Thankfully, his phone vibrated before he started spiralling.

Gale Dekarios: Okay, great! Thank you for answering so quickly. I'm doing some experimenting in the kitchen, so, yes, I'm thinking about you while I'm cooking. :)

Astarion Ancunín: Sounds fun, but please don't treat me like a lab rat, and don't serve me some fancy shit either. What about that Halruaan rice you promised me?

Gale Dekarios: Worry not! I always keep my promises. I just got inspired and started to think about tweaking certain recipes to fit your needs. For example, my mother's infamous chicken soup. I also got a few other ideas and theories. If you'd humour me, I'd be very curious how your body will react. Nothing dangerous, of course. I don't want you to get sick. Just rather harmless chemistry experiments.

Astarion Ancunín: Like what? Using laughing gas to force-feed me with your creations?

Gale Dekarios: Good heavens, no! D: I'd never do anything without your consent! Plus, I'll write down every single ingredient that I'll use to create our dinner. Nitrous oxide is commonly used in whipped cream canisters and cooking sprays though.

Astarion Ancunín: I was merely joking, darling, stop clutching your pearls. Also, I know about whippets. They're a rather popular party drug in the Lower City.

Gale Dekarios: God... The only thing I'm addicted to is my work.

Astarion Ancunín: I'd drink to that if I could. To us workaholics!

Gale Dekarios: Touché!

The house looked odd. Astarion double-checked the address, but he seemed to be at the right place. The grey stone building had a square, raised ground floor and first upper floor. The other three floor were a literal, round tower with a conical roof.

Since moving to Waterdeep three years ago, Astarion had never seen this building before – granted, he usually didn't hang around in the Dock Ward neighbourhood. The chilly wind tousled his silver curls, the smell of saltwater, fish, and algae were in the air. Seagulls screamed and fought over a few soggy French fries in a puddle. Astarion flinched when a cargo ship honked somewhere behind him, and he hurriedly rang the doorbell. When Gale opened the door and greeted him, Astarion couldn't help but ogle him. The cook was dressed in a dark purple polo shirt and dark blue jeans. He wore his brown hair in a half-updo and his beard neatly trimmed. As Gale showed Astarion around, the light caught a dangling, silver earring. A star with small amethyst gemstones. The man was stunning, and Astarion couldn't look away.

"So, how does one acquire a tower?" the latter wanted to know. "I didn't expect such an eccentric, humble home for a famed star chef like you."

"Oh, really? What did you expect?"

"Something sleek and modern. Boring and sterile, with loads of chrome. Like a restaurant kitchen."

Gale laughed amused and replied: "Not my style at all, but to be fair, it's exactly what my wife likes. You pretty much described the apartment I shared with her."

"Ugh, sounds dreadful," Astarion retorted. To his surprise, Gale agreed.

"It was. I never felt at home there – which might explains why I only went there to sleep and nothing else really. I poured myself into work instead. But enough of that."

He led Astarion towards the table in the living room and pulled the chair out for him. Astarion sat down and accepted the offered glass of water with a smile. He watched as Gale hurried to the kitchen to plate the first course of their dinner and served it, before sitting down. Astarion inspected the salad in front of him.

"A multiple-course meal? Oh, my! What did I do to deserve this?" he joked, and Gale smiled bashfully.

"I... I suppose I'm trying to impress you, Mister Ancunín. You're a rather fascinating specimen."

"Charmer," chuckled Astarion. "And let's drop the honorific form of address. This is a date, after all." Blushing a tad, Gale nodded. How adorable. "Tell me about your grandiose dinner plan, and how and what you came up with."

Unsurprisingly, the addressed's face lit up and he started rambling happily.

"Well, as you can tell, we start off with a beetroot salad. After cooking them, I diced and tossed them in a balsamic vinaigrette. The addition of caraway seeds gives it a distinctive flair that reminds me of the national dish of the North: borscht. For an extra kick of freshness, I added a few filleted orange slices as decoration. That pleases the eye, the tastebuds, and the health. Bon appétit!"

"Bon appétit," smirked Astarion and took the first bite. The earthy flavour of the beetroots harmonised well with the caraway seeds and the citrus flavour. "It's lovely."

"Yes, but nothing special, I'm afraid," Gale retorted, completely ignoring the praise. "Salads are one of the most versatile dishes, but if you can't use any raw vegetables, it's much more challenging to make it colourful and interesting."

"You could have gone for the safe option: cucumber salad. It's the only veggie I can eat raw without any issues," Astarion remarked "But you didn't. You wanted to surprise me with something different, and that's rather thoughtful."

"Yes. Well." Gale cleared his throat awkwardly. "I cannot resist a challenge when one arises. A constant folly of mine, I'm afraid."

"I don't mind. It's a charming folly."

Astarion watched amused as Gale turned the same colour as their salads, and quickly finished the first course. The brunet carried the plates back to the kitchen and returned with the promised Halruaan rice. The smell alone had Astarion salivating.

"Voilà, the famed Eastern dish, as promised!"

"Honestly, I've been waiting for this all week," admitted Astarion. "I even fantasised about the rice in my sleep."

"Well, then I'm glad I can satisfy this urge," Gale told him, before they dug in. The long grain rice was fluffy and firm to the bite. The mild yellow curry was elevated by sweet bits of raisins and dates. On the side, Gale had served a juicy chicken breast, marinated with the same yellow curry mixture and a drizzle of honey, and had garnished it with a fresh sprig of rosemary. Holy shit, it was delicious. Astarion couldn't help but moan at the taste, making Gale blush once more in the process.

"I apologise for ever doubting you. You really are a culinary wizard!"

Gale huffed a laugh, sounding relieved.

"I'm glad you like it, Astarion."

They lapsed into comfortable silence while they ate, until Gale spoke up again.

"I haven't actually answered your question from earlier. About the tower?" Astarion hummed encouragingly, shovelling another forkful of addictive rice into his mouth. "Originally, it served as a harbour tower since the middle ages, but has lost its importance one hundred and fifty years ago."

"And then it was just offered for sale?" Astarion asked in disbelief. "Not turned into a museum, or something? This city's so obsessed with its history otherwise."

"Ahem, well..." Gale grinned sheepishly. "Both sides of my family are deeply rooted in Waterdeep, and my maternal ancestors weren't cooks but fishers."

Astarion's eyes widened in realisation.

"No... Don't tell me that..."

"Guilty as charged, I'm afraid," giggled Gale. "This tower belongs to the Aumar family since the thirteenth century. My great-grandfather was the last harbour tower guard before the industrialisation, and since the tower lost its use and value, my family was able to keep it. My grandparents lived here, and after their death, the property went to Elminster." Gale had a fond look on his face as he smiled. He was beautiful, Astarion thought once more. "I've made a lot of good memories in here. After... after the scandal, Elminster encouraged me to move in long-term." He sighed as a shadow past his face. "You know, even before all of that, we had marital problems. Occasionally, Mystra got so mad at me that she changed the locks of the apartment and refused to let me in. During these times, Elminster allowed me to hunker down in here. The tower was empty anyway, so he told me to make myself comfortable and make it my own. I never had a say in the apartment’s furnishing and decor. Mystra hated how our tastes clash. Well..." Gale shrugged, smiling apologetically. "It's not my fault I like my home to be cosy."

He seemed so tired all of a sudden. So much older than thirty-five. Astarion suppressed the urge to stand up, walk over, and stroke the other man's hair. Instead, he remarked: "Well, darling, in my opinion, your home's nice and cosy, and I like it a lot. It feels warm and safe."

"Not cluttered?" Gale asked, the corners of his mouth ticking up.

"I think that's part of the charm, darling," teased the addressed, and they laughed about it.

After polishing off his plate, Astarion couldn't resist when Gale offered him seconds. When he was done with it, the cook prepared the dessert in the kitchen. It gave Astarion time to thoroughly look around and find out more about the other man. The plentiful, overflowing bookshelves gave away Gale's love for reading, the many pots everywhere proved his green thumb, and the old-fashioned furniture made of dark wood and velvet revealed Gale's taste. Astarion's head snapped back to attention when the brunet walked in, carrying a serving tray. Maybe he could continue his snooping later on.

"Ta-da! Tiramisu and a Myratma Fog!"

"Gale..."

"Listen, I know what you're thinking, and I'm aware it looks like the real deal, but it's not, I promise! I brew organic lavender from the Purple Hills region and steamed almond milk, which I've sweetened with vanilla sugar before. I gently stirred it all together, placed some almond milk macrofoam on top, and garnished it with a sprinkle of dried lavender flowers. It's safe for you to drink, I swear it on the lives of all my ancestors."

"What about the tiramisu?" Astarion asked quietly. "That's biscuits, coffee, mascarpone, and egg. I'm not an idiot, Gale."

"I know, yes, but I - I changed the recipe! I bought vegan mascarpone, and it consists of coconut cream, rape seed oil, and guar gum flour. I double-checked the ingredient list, I swear!" Gale was stumbling over his words in the haste to explain himself. "I used gluten-free, vegan ladyfingers and soaked them in Amaretto and chicory coffee substitute. I left out the eggs and simply fluffed up the vegan mascarpone with sugar, and orange and lemon zest. I topped it off with a light dusting of a cocoa and powdered sugar mixture."

Despite Gale's words, Astarion stared and poked at the dessert as if it could jump off the plate and bite him. Gale sat down with a heavy sigh.

"It's safe to eat, I promise. I'm not trying to hurt you and make you ill. Quite the contrary, actually." A faint blush spread across his cheeks as he nervously rubbed his nose. "I believe more chefs should cater to people with food allergies. It was rather challenging to hunt down all the ingredients I needed, and if food companies and cooks would focus more on that problem, new products would be invented, the variety would increase, and the prices would be less exorbitant."

"That's exactly why I try to stay away from products that are specifically labelled as allergen-free," Astarion ranted. "All those breads, cookies, and snacks are at least twice as expensive as the 'normal' products, and, as the cherry on top, usually, they taste like shit!"

Gale laughed, good-naturedly.

"I think you're onto something."

"Naturally," quipped Astarion, winking.

They lapsed into a pleasant silence. It was never fully quiet in Gale's tower though. The grandfather clock was ticking slowly, the fridge hummed in the background, the fireplace – which apparently was the building's heating system – crackled, and outside the windows screeched a colony of seagulls.

Finally, Astarion cut off a piece of the tiramisu with the spoon and, with a pounding heart, put it in his mouth. ... Fuck. He closed his eyes as long-forgotten but still familiar flavours exploded over his tongue, and his tastebuds sang their praise. Despite being a coffee substitute, the chicory offered the typical roasted flavour and harmonised perfectly with the nuttiness of the almond liqueur. The vegan mascarpone had a thicker, less fluffy texture than the real stuff, but still provided the required creaminess. The zests gave it a fresh kick, which would cut through the heaviness of the dairy, but in this case, they served to enhance the taste of the vegan mascarpone. The bittersweetness of the cocoa/sugar powder brought it all together. It obviously didn't taste like 'real' tiramisu, but it was easily the best dessert Astarion had ever had since he'd cut out all the allergens. Fuck. He swallowed another bite.

"Is it to your liking?" Gale wanted to know, sounding anxious for some damn reason. Was he actually nervous? He? The culinary prodigy, who could do magic in the kitchen? Astarion opened his eyes, horrified to feel the sting of tears in them.

"Gale... this is the best thing I've eaten in fifteen years. Not just the tiramisu but the entire dinner. I... I don't know what to say." Astarion barked a laugh, furiously blinking away the unshed tears. "There are no words that could describe my gratitude, so, I'll make it simple. Thank you, Gale. This is a gift, you know, and I'll never forget it."

The addressed beamed at him, replying: "Anything for you, Astarion."

After finishing their dessert, Astarion followed Gale into the kitchen. He knew what naturally came next. They were on a date, after all. Usually, Astarion made sure to keep some room in his stomach, but he'd had no self-control tonight. Gale's cooking was too delicious to deny. So, there was no way he could be fucked without the risk of puking. A blowjob then. Yes, he could do that. Astarion observed Gale, who was yapping about the little experiments he wanted to involve the lawyer with. The latter hadn't really been listening, too distracted by the thoughts of repaying the cook for his generosity. When Gale was drying his hands on a kitchen towel, Astarion took it as his cue. He moved closer, trapping the other man against the kitchen counter.

"You know," he purred, "no one has ever cooked for me specifically before. What I like or what I can eat never mattered. I just had to make do with what was given to me. So... thank you, Gale. For everything."

He leaned in for a kiss, sighing when their lips met. Gale's were soft, plush, and warm, and the cook brought his hands up to cradle Astarion's face between them. The lawyer liked it. He gently sucked on Gale's lower lip, and when the brunet gasped, Astarion slipped his tongue into the other's mouth, making him moan. It felt so good. Kissing Gale was a revelation. Astarion liked everything about him: his personality, his looks, his scent, his taste. Gale was the first person in years, who didn't put Astarion off. With a happy, little sigh, the brunet drew back to gasp for breath.

"Astarion," he whispered, reverently. The addressed felt a pleasant shiver running up his spine. Kissing Gale felt great, but he knew that was not enough for payment, and he wasn't sure if he'd enjoy the next part of it.

"You took care of me, now, let me take care of you in return, darling," he purred and unzipped Gale's jeans. The latter's breath hitched, his eyes widened. Oh, he was totally into this. Of course he was. Astarion was beautiful, and they both knew it. The lawyer went down on his knees, pulling Gale's trousers and underwear down. The half-hard cock sprang free, uncut, and nestled in a neatly trimmed bush. At least, he wasn't gross. A small mercy. Astarion licked his lips. He could do this. He'd done it countless times before. This was Gale, not a random stranger, and he would be gentle. Wouldn't choke him on his dick until he gagged and threw up. This was Gale, with his soft eyes and warm hands. He wouldn't pull his hair and push him down. Wouldn't call him derogatory terms while fucking his throat raw. Astarion took a deep breath to calm himself and glanced up to see a look of awe and adoration on the other man's flushed face. Gale wouldn't hurt him. Determined, Astarion took him in his mouth, deliberately slowly, running his tongue along the underside of Gale's dick. It wasn't so girthy that it caused lock-jaw, and it smelled clean and faintly of lavender. Gale's dick was perfect – and so were the noises he made. Little hitches of breath and high-pitched whimpers. Delicious. His surprisingly dextrous fingers were in Astarion's curls, not griping or pushing, but lightly massaging his scalp, which was rather pleasant. Astarion focused on sucking the cock in his mouth, he was a professional after all. He drew back to lick the tip, tasting the pearly precum. It wasn't too bad. With closed eyes, he sunk down again, twirling his tongue, while his hand stroke the base. He had an intense fear of deepthroating ever since that one very specific incident when –

"Astarion... I'm close. Please..."

Ah, alright then. The addressed hummed in understanding and kept going. Gale's panting sounded loud and harsh in the otherwise quiet room.

"Astarion."

There was a sob and a hitched breath, and then, Gale was coming. Astarion swallowed it all down dutifully – too afraid of the punishment if he wouldn't – and was surprised that it didn't even taste too bad. Other than HIM, Gale didn't drink coffee nor alcohol, nor did he smoke, so, maybe, that explained the difference in taste. With a gasp, Astarion popped off the softening dick, slightly dazed. The gentle fingers in his hair wandered down to his cheek to tilt his head up.

"Sorry, I'm sorry, Astarion. I didn't mean to - to - But you didn't stop."

"What's the problem, darling? Didn't it feel good to come in my mouth? Isn't it what you wanted?"

The lawyer's voice was raspy and his speech slightly slurred as he peered up through his long, black lashes.

"W-well..." stammered Gale, turning crimson. "It – It felt good."

Astarion hummed in acknowledgement. Of course, it felt good. He'd been praised for his skills often enough. He knew he was a talented cocksucker.

"Was it... good for you too?"

Okay, that was new. Astarion blinked a couple of times, dumbstruck, and found his way back into his body.

"Of course, darling," he lied, coquettishly. – Was it a lie? Astarion suddenly wasn't sure anymore.

"Oh." Gale let go of the breath he'd been holding. "What a relief. I have no intention of making you uncomfortable, or getting you into a sticky situation."

"Sticky, eh?" Astarion smirked, his brain fully online again, as he stood up with feline grace. "It's fine, darling. I'm glad you enjoyed yourself so thoroughly."

To his utter surprise, Gale placed a gentle, chaste kiss on his lips despite the fact that he'd just sucked his dick and reeked of it.

"I'll gladly return the favour," the cook told him, still flushed. "I - I can do that for you, if you wish."

"That's not necessary," Astarion replied quickly. "The pleasure was all mine, and it's getting late."

"But..." Gale frowned. "It would be rather ungentlemanly of me not to –"

"You can be a gentleman next time," Astarion interrupted him smoothly. Gale kept frowning, but thankfully didn't object. Astarion was relieved when the brunet turned around and started stacking food containers with leftovers into a cooling bag, together with his experiments.

"Here you go," Gale smiled. "Again, you don't have to indulge my curiosity if you fear it'll be unsafe for you, but I'm curious about the results nonetheless."

"I'll see what I can do," replied Astarion smoothly.

"Spoken like a true lawyer," teased the cook.

"I am a true lawyer."

Laughing, they moved towards the front door, and Astarion took the cooling bag from Gale, before pecking him on the cheek and stepping outside.

"Thank you, Gale. I had a lovely time," smiled Astarion. He meant it. The addressed smiled back.

"Me too. Goodnight, Astarion. Be safe."

With a curt nod, the lawyer turned around.

As he walked along the wharf beneath the yellow light of the streetlamps and lulled by the sound of the gently swaying sea, he could still taste Gale on his tongue. For the first time in forever, the lingering cum didn't make him want to retch. How peculiar.

[many-to-mention10001]

What types of tea does Harney & Sons offer?

What types of tea does Harney & Sons offer? Harney & Sons offers a wide range of teas, including black, green, white, oolong, herbal, and specialty blends like flavored teas and wellness teas.

Where is Harney & Sons tea sourced from? The company sources its teas from reputable tea-growing regions around the world, including China, India, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Africa.

Are Harney & Sons teas organic? Many Harney & Sons teas are organic, and they offer a selection of certified organic blends. Look for the organic label on specific products.

Is Harney & Sons tea gluten-free? Most Harney & Sons teas are naturally gluten-free. However, some blends with added flavorings or ingredients may contain traces, so it’s best to check product labels.

Do Harney & Sons teas contain caffeine? Caffeine content varies by tea type. Black and green teas typically have caffeine, while herbal and rooibos blends are caffeine-free.

How should Harney & Sons tea be stored? Store the tea in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and strong odors, ideally in its original tin or an airtight container.

Does Harney & Sons offer loose-leaf tea and tea bags? Yes, they provide both loose-leaf teas and tea sachets (pyramid-shaped tea bags) for convenience.

Can I buy Harney & Sons tea in bulk? Yes, Harney & Sons offers bulk options for some teas, ideal for frequent drinkers or businesses like cafes.

Are there any seasonal or limited-edition teas? Harney & Sons frequently releases seasonal blends and limited-edition teas, especially during holidays and special occasions.

Where can I buy Harney & Sons tea? Their teas are available on the Harney & Sons website, in their retail stores, and through various online and physical retailers worldwide.

[basketleaftea]

How to Research Your Target Market for a Tea Business – Basketleaf

Launching a successful tea business starts with thoroughly understanding your target market. Researching your audience allows you to shape your offerings, create effective marketing strategies, and ultimately ensure that your business appeals to the right customers. For entrepreneurs aiming to start one of the best businesses under ₹1 lakh, understanding your target market is essential to make smart, budget-friendly decisions that will maximize growth potential.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to researching your target market for a tea business.

1. Define Your Target Customer Profile

Identifying your target customer is the first step. Look at characteristics such as age, lifestyle, purchasing preferences, and health awareness to build a detailed customer profile.

Key Demographic Points to Consider

Age Range: Who would buy your tea? Millennials and Gen Z customers often look for unique and health-conscious options, while older generations might prefer classic flavors.

Income Level: Higher-income customers may be more interested in premium, organic, or artisanal teas, while budget-conscious buyers may prioritize affordability.

Lifestyle and Interests: Health-focused consumers might prefer herbal or Ayurvedic teas, while tea enthusiasts might look for specialty blends and unique flavors.

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Conduct informal surveys through social media or leverage free survey tools like Google Forms to gather insights into customer preferences.

2. Conduct Competitor Analysis

Look at what other tea businesses in your area or online are offering. This will help you identify market gaps, learn about successful strategies, and understand consumer expectations.

What to Look For in Competitors

Product Range: Which tea varieties are popular? Are there any unique flavors or blends that competitors are known for?

Pricing Strategy: Note the price range of products, discount offers, and bulk pricing. This can give you an idea of the expected price point in your target market.

Customer Engagement: Observe how your competitors engage with customers through social media, email marketing, and content to see which strategies resonate with their audience.

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Use free tools like Ubersuggest and SEMrush’s free version to analyze competitors' keywords and online performance. Follow competitors on social media to see their marketing strategies in action.

3. Explore Industry Trends and Consumer Preferences

Stay informed about the latest trends in the tea industry, as they can reveal what appeals to modern tea drinkers. Trends such as organic teas, sustainability, and unique flavors are all important considerations.

Popular Trends in the Tea Industry

Health-Boosting Ingredients: Teas with ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and matcha are increasingly popular due to their health benefits.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Sustainable packaging is a priority for many consumers, especially environmentally conscious younger customers.

Unique Flavors and Blends: Beyond traditional chai, tea drinkers are exploring exotic flavors like hibiscus, lavender, and rooibos.

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Subscribe to free industry newsletters and reports or follow tea industry websites to get regular updates on trends. Platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram can also reveal trends through influencer posts and consumer conversations.

4. Use Online Market Research Tools

There are several free or affordable tools that provide insights into consumer behavior, search trends, and market demand. These tools can reveal what your target market is searching for, which keywords they use, and what they’re interested in.

Recommended Market Research Tools

Google Trends: Explore popular tea-related search terms and discover seasonal patterns in tea purchases.

Keyword Planner (Google Ads): Learn which keywords related to tea are most searched, such as “organic tea” or “green tea for health.”

Social Listening Tools: Free tools like Hootsuite (with limited features) allow you to track conversations about tea on social media to learn what customers care about.

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Use Google Trends and Keyword Planner to understand high-demand tea categories without any cost. Social media can also be a goldmine of market insights for free if you follow popular hashtags in the tea industry.

5. Identify Customer Pain Points and Preferences

Knowing what your potential customers value and what challenges they face when buying tea can help you design a more appealing product. Common pain points may include limited availability of certain flavors, high prices, or lack of eco-friendly packaging.

How to Identify Pain Points

Customer Reviews: Read online reviews of similar tea businesses to learn about common complaints or issues customers encounter.

Social Media Feedback: Engage with tea-related groups and forums to understand consumer feedback and complaints.

Surveys and Questionnaires: Conduct small surveys, asking what customers value most in a tea brand (e.g., flavor, health benefits, packaging, affordability).

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Use free online platforms like Reddit and Facebook groups where tea lovers share opinions, ask questions, and provide reviews. Reading through these posts can offer invaluable insights.

6. Conduct a SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)

A SWOT analysis can help you assess your own business potential within the target market. By understanding what strengths to capitalize on and what weaknesses to address, you’ll be better prepared to succeed.

Basic Steps in SWOT for Your Tea Business

Strengths: Identify what makes your business stand out. For instance, if you have a unique blend of herbal teas, that’s a strength.

Weaknesses: Acknowledge areas that may require improvement, such as limited funding for marketing.

Opportunities: Recognize market gaps, like the demand for organic teas or locally sourced ingredients.

Threats: Identify potential challenges, like high competition or fluctuating ingredient prices.

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Use SWOT templates available online to quickly conduct this analysis without needing any paid tools. Reviewing competitor SWOT analyses online can also offer additional context.

7. Run Test Marketing Campaigns

Before launching your tea business full-scale, test your concept on a small scale to gauge interest. A test marketing campaign allows you to validate your assumptions, understand customer reactions, and refine your offerings before investing fully.

Ways to Test Your Tea Business Concept

Pre-Order Sales: Launch a pre-order campaign for select tea blends to gauge interest.

Pop-Up Stores or Farmers Markets: Consider testing your products locally to get real-time feedback from potential customers.

Social Media Polls and Ads: Run ads or polls on platforms like Instagram to see which products or concepts resonate most with your audience.

Budget-Friendly Tactic

Utilize social media platforms to test your concept with minimal investment, and attend local markets where you can pay a low vendor fee to showcase your products directly to customers.

8. Refine Your Customer Profile and Strategy Based on Insights

Once you’ve gathered data from various sources, refine your customer profile and marketing strategy based on the insights you’ve collected. Keep refining as you learn more about your audience, and use these insights to adjust your offerings.

Key Points to Consider

Product Development: Customize your tea blends based on identified customer preferences, such as wellness teas or fruity flavors.

Pricing Strategy: Adjust your pricing to align with customer expectations and competitor pricing.

Marketing Channels: Focus on the channels where your target audience is most active, whether that’s Instagram, YouTube, or local markets.

Budget-Friendly Tactic: Track analytics from Google and social media insights to monitor what works best, then adjust your strategy based on actual data rather than assumptions.

FAQ

Q1: Why is target market research important for a tea business?Market research helps you understand what your potential customers want, how to price your products competitively, and how to market effectively. Knowing your audience ensures you meet their expectations and stand out in a competitive market.

Q2: Can I conduct market research on a limited budget?Absolutely. There are many free or low-cost tools available for competitor analysis, keyword research, and social listening. Focus on high-impact, budget-friendly strategies like social media polls and free tools.

Q3: How do I validate demand for my tea products?Testing your products through pre-orders, pop-up shops, or small-scale digital campaigns can help you validate demand. Gathering real-time feedback is invaluable for fine-tuning your offerings.

Q4: How often should I revisit my target market research?Customer preferences can change over time, so it’s wise to revisit your research annually or whenever you plan significant product updates or marketing campaigns.Starting a tea business is one of the best businesses under ₹1 lakh when approached with a clear understanding of your target market. With focused research and a strategic approach, you’ll be able to connect with your ideal customers, offering products that truly resonate and establishing a strong brand presence.

[robbno]

Trapped by culture

Some stores just ain't introvert friendly. I'm not talking like these people are mean or anything. Quite the opposite in this case. Just too much "Hello there!"

We have this spa store in town that sells scented oils, candles, soaps and perfumes. The idea is relaxing aromatherapy and feel good skincare. As one would guess.

I like their products, but can't afford it that often. Shouldn't stop me from staying updated, though.

Since it's impossible to smell their stuff online, one needs to go to the store itself to make a "when possible, I'll buy this" list.

There it was. The gate to the store in front of me. I can do this.

My feet was touching the doorway...

Okay. Just in, smell the samples, read the names, say thank you and leave. The products I'm curious about are right by the door. I still have to be seen though. I don't want them to mistake me for a thief. I just need to be quicker than their services.

I stepped inside and got a cup of tea out if nowhere and a long friendly presentation about the series I just wanted to study a bit quickly.

I swear. The only thing missing was a couch and some relaxing music. I've been eaten alive by this store's heavy service. Again!

I tried the tactical comments "just browsing" and "I don't have much to spend" so they'll know I won't be buying today. Probably leave me to it.

Nothing could stop them. I was stuck until there was nothing else to be said about the product.

I awkwardly just stood there alone in front of them for a minute after everything, sipping the tea I never asked for. It was a nice... Rooibos with cinnamon, I think.

"Okay. Thanks. Bye." And I left.

I feel so darn guilty everytime. Just let a socially terrefied bloke browse! Please!

My hand smells like I just kicked down the doors to heaven to slam dunk it in a fountain filled with the nectar of mindful peace and ran off the way I came arms out, like a runaway toddler who doesn't want to nap.

I was afraid angels would possess my hand and attack me.

I will buy that scented oil when the one I have now runs out. I need the peace it gives after shopping at a place like that.

[bubblydiaspora6]

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[evadingreallife]

@kamijoxversailles you want to go? I can do this all day.

I never had lapsang souchong (i dont think so at least), and yes actually i misspoke and meant earthy for the pu'er. Specifically the yunnan pu'er shu i have at home. I like it a lot and it's got a very specific taste. I assume it's a commonality between pu'er but i havent tasted many.

I do not like earl grey nor anything else that has come into contact with bergamot. In fact, i hate bergamot with the passion of a thousand burning suns. That's a character flaw im afraid, and i wont budge.

Of course i meant loose leaves whenever possible. Loose leaves got me in a chokehold and refuse to let me go back to tea bags. Peace was never an option.

As for water temperature, i try to keep it within the recommended range they usually give you when you buy loose tea leaves, but i do ad lib it a lot when the mood strikes (or look it up online and find 10 different results lol). Generally tho it's between 70-85 for green teas depending on the variety and how much i want it to be strong and 90-ish for blacks and pu'er, even tho sometimes i go lower for a more mellow flavour. 95 or whatever for herbal blends and ofc 70 or lower for whites. Brewing times tend to be however much i think it's going to be required, unless i forget it and oversteep the leaves lmao. Usually a minute-ish (?) with blacks and greens, but it varies. And ofc i wash out the leaves first. And i usually brew it at least twice or more depending.

Anyways usually my teas are long jing or jasmine green tea, yunnan dianhong if im feeling in the mood for black tea or my aforementioned pu'er. I have a Mystery Tea that a friend gifted me that she swears it's a green tea but i actually think it's a yellow one because it's really mellow, but i cant be sure. I do have some tieguanyin too and a white monkey, but i do not drink them as much. I have some assam tea but its just kind of sitting there forgotten bc it feels too strong a flavour no matter how little i brew it, and a vietnamese green tea that tastes like spinach is i oversteep it. Weird. I had a laaarge bag of qimen and some yinzhen that i struggled to finish and i never want to drink qimen ever again now but that's it. And i hate hate hate bi luo chun, but that may be because i didnt know how to steep it yet back when i had it. I have a bag of kukicha that's pretty neat, even tho i get the feeling it's a weird tea choice bc it's not leaf based.

I have no idea what tung ting is tbh, and im not the biggest sencha fan, but i could be moved to give them a first or second try. Whenever i had it i havent liked matcha at all but that could be because maybe ive never had it properly brewed so im reserving judgement on that one.

Which kind of yunnan tea did you mean tho? I have at least two teas that have yunnan in their name by virtue of being from the yunnan region, so im a bit lost there.

We call rooibos tea in my language even tho it's not, so that's why it's on there (and i dont like the flavour, what can i do), and by fruity teas i dont mean herbal blends i mean specifically those tea blends that have fruit flavours mixed inside. Ew. No. Just no. For context: i was that kid that hated candies and chewing gum and any and all "artificial fruit flavour" ever. Fruit flavoured teas just are an all around bad experience to me.

Now, that's different from herbal blends in my books, specifically because i am all for plants and flowers releasing flavours in my hot water, and that's what i mean by herbal blends. Idk if it has another name in english. May be infusions? No idea. Anyways in my home we are devout chamomile drinkers and any and all herbal blends we come across tbh. Chrysantemum anyone? Just me? I blame that one on my study period abroad.

Oh and i dont like to drink tea with milk bc i prefer the taste of plain tea (no sugar no nothing ofc, that should be obvious at this point). I do drink milk tea on occasion (the occasion being me going to a boba place with friends and not wanting the boba part so i can only get the milk tea part) but i dont like it much so i dont go out of my way to get it. And i hate tapioca pearls, sorry not sorry. It links back to me hating candies and gummies unfortunately. And it's not as if i can get plain tea there bc those shops here tend to have really really strong (and bitter!) tea so it can better complement the milk. Or something. Not a fun drink at all.

Ive never had masala chai nor any other indian tea variations so i cant say anything in favour or against that.

Hmmmm that's it for my Tea Opinions? Yea that's it. For now.

(yes im coming for yall)

[teanourish]

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Herbal teas have gained significant popularity. These beverages offer a delightful way to boost your metabolism, curb cravings, and support your weight loss journey. Packed with antioxidants and natural compounds, herbal teas can help enhance digestion, reduce bloating, and promote overall well-being. In this blog post, we at Teanourish.com, the best online tea store in the USA, will explore the five best herbal teas for weight loss that can assist you in achieving your fitness goals naturally. Incorporating herbal teas into your weight loss regimen can offer a natural and enjoyable way to support your goals. Green tea, oolong tea, rooibos tea, peppermint tea, and ginger tea are among the top choices due to their unique properties that aid in metabolism, digestion, and appetite control. Remember that herbal teas should complement a well-balanced diet and regular exercise routine. So, sip your way to a healthier you by incorporating these herbal teas into your daily routine and enjoy their weight loss benefits along with a host of other wellness advantages. Cheers to a fitter, happier you! Need to buy tea online? Visit Teanourish.com right now and explore our variety of teas.

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7 Amazing Benefits Of Natural Herbal Tea.

Herbal tea has been enjoyed for centuries due to its numerous health benefits. It is an excellent way to relax, boost your immune system, and improve your overall well-being. Unlike traditional tea, which is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, herbal tea is made from a variety of herbs, spices, and flowers, you can drink it the way you like. In this blog post, we will discuss 7 amazing benefits of natural herbal tea.

1) Boosts Immune System.

Organic herbal tea bags is a great way to boost your immune system. Many organic herbal tea, such as ginger tea, echinacea tea, and elderberry tea, contain antioxidants and other natural compounds that help strengthen your body's natural defense system. These compounds help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses, which can help reduce your risk of getting sick.

2) Reduces Stress and Anxiety.

Organic herbal tea is also known for its calming properties, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Chamomile tea, for example, contains a natural compound called apigenin, which has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain. Other herbal teas, such as lavender tea and lemon balm tea, are also known for their calming properties.

3) Improves Digestion.

Organic herbal tea bags can also help improve digestion. Peppermint tea, for example, can help relieve stomach pain and bloating, while ginger tea can help soothe nausea and improve digestion. Herbal teas can also help promote regular bowel movements, which can help reduce constipation and other digestive problems. You can buy organic herbal tea online whichever you like. 

4) Reduces Inflammation.

These compounds can help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.

5) Promotes Healthy Skin.

Organic herbal tea is also great for promoting healthy skin. Many herbal teas contain natural compounds that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage skin cells and lead to premature aging. Rooibos tea, for example, is rich in antioxidants that can help protect skin cells from damage, while chamomile tea can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.

6) Helps with Weight Loss.

Herbal tea can also be beneficial for those trying to lose weight. Herbal teas can also help reduce cravings and appetite, which can help you stick to your weight loss goals. You can prefer to buy organic herbal tea online. 

7) Improves Sleep Quality.

Finally, herbal tea can also help improve sleep quality. Many herbal teas, such as valerian root tea and passionflower tea, have natural sedative properties that can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

In conclusion, herbal tea is a natural and delicious way to improve your health and well-being and betterment. Whether you are looking to boost your immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, improve digestion, or promote healthy skin, there is an herbal tea that can help. So why not try incorporating herbal tea into your daily routine and reap the many benefits that it has to offer?

[tteachaite]

We've been selling online since 2003 and we love our customers. Premium Loose Leaf Tea Blends. Made with in Portland. Quick shipping. Amazing service. Tea Chai Te brand has become a joyful Portland staple for the last decade, and we are eternally grateful for such wonderful community support.

[aboutiroh]

Hey for caffeine free tea that tastes very similar to breakfast tea/black tea, rooibos is a nice alternative! I don't like caffeine anything because it gives me the shakes really badly but with rooibos i don't get them at all xx also you can buy it online loose leaf plastic free quite easily which is always a bonus 💕 it's also lower in tannins than most black and green teas xx have a lovely day ✨✨

this is very helpful thank you!!!