#so they don't celebrated christmas. they celebrate the winter solstice/yule

[enbysiriusblack]

Sirius was in the middle of taping a dung bomb underneath a desk in Flitwick's empty classroom when Peter spoke.

"You going home for the holidays?"

Sirius easily slid out from under the desk, folding his arms on the top as he glanced over to Peter, "Nah. I'll probably go to James' instead. See how long it takes them to come drag me back themselves instead of sending that wretched Kreature."

Peter nodded, "I might come join you, Mum's place is always packed during winter."

Sirius grinned, "Brilliant", he climbed over the table and jumped off it, "We can spend Yule together."

Peter smiled back, "Yeah. The Potter's made you your own guest room right?"

"Oh, I forgot you haven't seen it! It's much cooler than my room at Grimmauld Place."

"Oh, no naked women?"

Sirius laughed, "Absolutely not. Maybe I want my mother to have a fit, but definitely not Mia. But Monty got me these proper band posters and there's this huge Queen one over my bed, and last summer when I flooed to the Potter's, me and James stole this traffic cone so that's in there. Oh, and Mia met me in Camden as well and she got me all these muggle clothes and Marlene built me a cupboard to put it all in."

"It sounds nice, can't wait to see it."

Sirius grabbed Peter's hand to drag him to the next classroom, "Merlin, neither can I. And you can borrow any of it, of course. I actually got a guitar for when you come over."

"You got a guitar? What kind?"

Sirius shrugged, "Fender Strat, I think. You'll play it right? I love hearing you play."

Peter beamed, "Course, I will."

Sirius tousled Peter's hair before glancing at his bag of dung bombs, "Only got a few left", he sighed.

Peter held his hand out, "Pass them here, I was thinking if we put them on the doors instead and leave them open then the smell would reach to a further distance."

Sirius instantly perked up, grabbing Peter's face and quickly giving him a kiss before turning to the windows, "Make sure all the windows are shut as well!"

Peter, cheeks still bright red, walked over to shut the remaining open windows.

[looselipssinkships-x]

I did all of my holiday baking last night

I woke up, ate breakfast, and baked for nine and a half hours straight

I made 212 cookies

I feel like i blacked out and the spirit of a manic 85yo took over

[babey-fruit-bat]

Ut te mihi Juno

Caracalla X F! Reader

Summary: Caracalla presents a surprise gift for your wedding, hoping it will be to your liking Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanza, Happy Winter Solstice, Yule, and glad tidings to all my followers or readers! Hoping you have a delightful holiday season no matter what it looks likes or who you celebrate with!

🕊️🌿💍🕊️🌿💍🕊️🌿💍🕊️🌿💍🕊️🌿💍🕊️🌿

The dawn cascaded through the large windows of your room in the imperial palace. Your gaze drifted open to the golden embroidered gown hanging in the windowsill. There wasn't much time to ponder the day's events as your handmaids flooded the room preparing a steaming bath with lily, rose and locus. You were ushered in as breakfast was brought up. A spread of cheeses, breads, fruits and a light wine was served, and as you ate your mind drifted to the memory of Caracalla. The first day you met so vivid in your mind, as if it was yesterday. It was a grueling process of selection, that quickly became easy within the first week of your arrival. You were selected along with five other noblewomen as choices for the young emperor to sort from and select a bride. You'd attended meetings, parties, formal and informal gatherings both as a group and an individual to see how well he might take to each of you. By the end of the week, it was time to attend the first gladiator tournament. You'd accompanied him as a group to not only show off his selection of brides, but to view how each of you would attend an event he cherished so much. You'd been fitted in a cobalt gown and filed in last, Caracalla standing by as each lady found their seat before taking his own. The heavy fabric snagged beneath your sandal, and you found yourself caught in his arms before your soft skin could be marred by the rough granite of the Coliseum. His grip lingered on your body for a few moments before he released you to find your seat.

It was practically tangible the jealousy that coursed through each womans veins as he kept turning to sneak glances at you during the game- the feel of your prefect skin burned into his mind. He had to have you. From that day forth an obsession with you erupted from within him. He could not eat, speak, nor dream without his brain plagued by your scent. He surprised the Senate by having every other noblewoman removed from his party of admirers. He desired only you to accompany him, always insisting you take his arm. Geta, who wished to consider a more rational proceeding had to share his concerns to his brother, who promptly shut him down, "She is entirely perfect- she fit beneath my arm as if the Gods crafted her just for me- you just don't understand." Despite initial discrepancies no one could deter Caracalla- he was determined to make you his empress, his eternal companion, his woman. His love for you had become all consuming- and the wedding arrangements consumed much of his spare time. He consulted you for most of it, agreeing to a winter wedding in January- to honor the Goddess, Juno, in hopes of a blessed and fruitful union. Each detail had been crafted to honor of you both. An ornate hall was trimmed in gold, and sapphires glittered from every corner of the ceiling. White silks lined the floors underneath tables with rows upon rows of the finest delicacies. Vases with floating candles and peacock feathers lined the tables. The opulence and detail in each piece was nearly overwhelming to your senses.

Billows of incense wafted through the temple, scents of frankincense, myrrh, and pine delighted your senses as you made your way to the holding room before the wedding. You slipped into your gown the white fabric melting onto your skin in silken pleats. Your maids tended to any finishing details adorning you with a collared necklace encrusted with diamonds and sapphires from the far East- the last gift delivered to your room from Caracalla before you'd become his. The groom paced frantically around the room, servants sent away, just him, his brother, and beloved pet- Dondas. He was brought along to help ease Calla's growing anxiety, but not about his marriage to you. He tugged at the golden pieces littering his garb groaning for time to move faster. The deep red robes swished around his feet clinking and jangling softly as his pace increased. "Brother, you've checked with the servants twice and you've ensured everything's been delivered?" Geta rose with a huff, his wine nearly sloshing out of his cup. "Yes, Carcalla, she's right here, the servants just brought her in as you finished dressing."

They both ventured over to a stand containing a large dome covered in cloth. Dondas peered closer trying to uncover it with the familiar sound of a creature hidden from view. "And you're sure she'll like this brother? I have yet to see you acquaint your darling lover with the stables or any of the animals' grounds- perhaps she will not share your love of beasts."

"You speak in lies and doubt, Geta, you do not see her eyes, powerful, understanding, and unyielding... like Dondas." He smiled looking to his Capuchin- who squeaked in amusement nibbling on the bowl of nuts and fruit specially brought to him. The pair paused gazing at the creature, happily unaware of the impeding events about to unfold. "Right... I suppose you would know her best- I only hope once she weds you, she does not have to vie for your attention alongside Dondas." Geta said with a lilt, focus back on his brother. "Certainly not- My jewel will be the most coveted in Rome! The most envied and cared for in imperial history- Just as Dondas is. I have no doubt she'll accept this offering as well, one perfect enough for my wife." "And there's no time like the present- Come now Caracalla, the priest is ready to start." With that, Geta guided him to the altar to start the ceremony. Time seemed to stand still as you glided down the aisle. Guests lined the rows of seats eager to catch a view at the empire's newest family member. As you reached the end of the aisle Caracalla took your hands in his, both repeating your vows in tender speech and promise. His warm hands felt firm on your hips as he pulled you in for a feverish kiss, desperate to finally claim you as his own. An astounding array of cheers followed as guests poured into the receiving hall quickly being served a bountiful round of courses and drink upon drink was filled and refilled.

Before the night concluded and guests started to make their way home Carcalla stood before the crowd determined to capture everyone's attention. He had indulged heavily in the party's whimsy and substances passed around on sliver platters, vases, and cups. You'd had your fair share too ending up in your new husbands' arms most of the night mimicking the stories spread far and wide about young lovers and their affectionate nature. "Great celebrates! We thank you for coming in celebration of Rome's glory, of victory, and great love found within it-" A round of cheers and raised glasses concurred with Calla's statement. "I wish to present my wife with one more precious gift. One more declaration before the festivities end, and I have you, my dear empress all to myself this night." His gaze met yours and darkened as low murmurs and a few celebratory cheers were heard from the husbands in the hall. Dondas leapt up to join him on his shoulder, chittering before ruffling his master's hair. "Bring her in, I cannot wait any longer for this!"

A fanfare of servants was summoned into the room by horns throwing a parade of flower petals down to meet you, leaning down where to sat until the strange dome was eye level. You carefully removed the sheet to find the most precious creature. Another Capuchin monkey, a female, dressed in a gown identical to your wedding gown, adorned with a ribbon tied loosely around her neck. The tiny moneys eyes peered into yours seeking warmth and refuge after spending so much of her day kept away from the festivities. You popped the latch as quickly as possible and cradled her close to your chest. "Oh, Caracalla, I really don't know what to say-" His eyes flickered with doubt for a moment, his mind returning to the words of his bother earlier. "She's just perfect! Not only for I, but Dondas, now he will also have a dear friend to spend his days with!" Your face was brighter than ever as Dondas crawled his way up to your shoulder to sneak a peek at your new pet. "We will have to name her, a name fitting for an imperial pet, a title she'll be worthy of..." Calla paused searching his drunken brain for names befitting a creature meant to represent so much to him. "What about... Juno?"

He paused to ponder your choice ""Hmm, Juno? As in the queen of the Gods?" "Yes, it's perfect- Juno will favor us as we have honored and favored her during our union- our future will be blessed, happy." Your decree fell to his ears in a hushed tone, keeping the intimate moment between yourselves and pets private from the prying ears of guests. "It really is perfect, isn't it?" He agreed taking your hand in his pressing a soft kiss to inside of your palm. Calla stood once more on top of the table, Geta rolling his eyes hoping he'd fall off. Caracalla swayed steadying himself before commanding the crowd to his attentions again. Your eyes glittered in amusement with his display of affection and devotion.

"Citizens- we delight in sharing our other newest imperial member with you tonight- Hail Juno!"

@certifiedcodbabygirl @s-lverwing

[nikalaeva]

So, SJM and mythology

For a start, ACOTAR series is a horrible mishmash of mythologies. Irish, Scottish and Welsh names are mixed with Latin, Greek, Hebrew and even French. We have the Scottish ballad "Tam Lin", and next to it the Slavic Koschei and the Firebird. Feyre is like Cinderella and Belle and Janet and probably Persephone at the same time. WTF?

If Prythian is Britain, then the map should be changed. For example, let the northern courts (Night, Winter and Autumn) be "Ireland", the southern ones (Day, Summer and Spring) - "Scotland", the Dawn Court - "Wales". Although it would be better to divide the Courts into western and eastern. Idk what would be correct, and may citizens of these countries forgive me if my ideas insulted them. But I think after ACOWAR any other idea would be better. Did everyone realize that Hybern is Ireland? Fuck 😡. This daft woman just shit on beautiful country and its history. We know nothing about Hybern, the king DOESN'T EVEN HAVE A NAME (dear publishers, are you fucking out of your mind releasing something like this?).

Sorry. Let's continue with cold blood. So, Britain was a part of the Roman Empire historically. The Romans conquered many countries. They called everyone who was not Roman "barbarians". Slavery was a big part of their economy and society. Just come up with a country like the Roman Empire. Change the damn map so Prythian was BETWEEN that empire and the continent with human kingdoms. Write that the Emperor offered High Lords to let him through or join him to enslave humans. High Lords refused - so the war began. Then it's clear where the characters got Latin names - they have ancestors from there. Amaranta is also a Latin word/name.

Prythian is an ugly chimera of different cultures molded into one. We see togas and leggings, Summer Court next to Winter Court, evil Ireland versus good Britain, a Slavic and a Greek creatures (for me, the Weaver is obviously an Arachne reference). It's literally a dump. Where the hell is Celtic mythology, paganism, fairy world? And I don't want to hear the excuse "it's just fairy porn". This is a published book, not a first grader's fucking essay about how he dreams of spending summer.

I only liked Calanmai. It's a Welsh festival marking the beginning of... summer? 🤨 If Tamlin is "Scottish", it must be Imbolc, the Gaelic festival of the beginning of spring on February 1st. Correct me if I'm wrong. Real Calanmai is definitely not an orgy, but in ACOTAR version it's so fae and weird. Let that Calanmai be celebrated in the Spring and Dawn Courts.

I'd like to see colorful Beltane in the Summer and Day Courts. If Calanmai is a fertility festival, let the faery version of Beltane be a more "social" festival, with costly, high-sounding, mass weddings. Let it be a symbol of family, no matter what kind of - unrelated, childless, polyamorous etc.

I'd like to see a creepy, otherworldly Samhain in the Autumn Court. The dead literally rise and wander around Prythian, reminding us of death, but thanks to the Autumn Court they do not bother anyone. Let the restless souls have a chance to confess, repent of their sins and receive forgiveness from any fairy who will listen to them. And at the end all of them return to the land, so the nature falls asleep for the winter.

I'd like to see, maybe, Yule in the Winter and Night Court. I know, it's a Germanic midwinter festival that the Christians replaced with Christmas. Okay, let there be a Solstice, but make it not like Christmas. Let this be the longest and snowiest night of the year. Let the snow literally cover the towns and villages, shining as brightly as the starry sky. No lights or bonfires, only night and winter - frighteningly beautiful, like the fairies, but cruel and deadly dangerous. Let this festival be a symbol of the ancient history of Prythian, its wars and victories. Citizens honor the warriors, heroes and rulers who led the people through the same darkness and cold into a bright, peaceful future.

But I've seen nothing. Except poor imagination of SJM, of course.

P.S.: you may think I'm being too picky, but that's my opinion - if you want to write about a fantasy world with non-human creatures, work with the lore. Or just write a contemporary romance novel and don't embarrass yourself.

[stoned-frog]

hc, nm and dream would celebrate something like Yule (the celebration of the winter solstice) instead of christmas. later on, dream would slowly adapt to christmas out of respect of those alive around him, and still have a little solo yule for himself. nm however takes the chance to go all out on it, full yule feast and everything. it's one of the holidays he puts any real effort into

Omg yes!! ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!!

Also love how Dream would try and get his friends to celebrate Yule but most of them don't even know what it is and so he slowly adapted to Christmas and left his old traditions behind, only having a small celebration alongside his birthday, often alone.

But Nightmare would almost force the Yule traditions onto his gang

"What do you mean you don't know what Yule is?! Seriously, today's education.... I'm gonna show you how to properly celebrate the winter spirit"

Finally they came to an agreement of celebrating a little bit of both, letting Nightmare show appreciation for nature and sun and stuff but also get in the Christmas mood with his boys. I also think that the day after his birthday he would go out for the whole day, watch the sunrise, breathe in the cold air, walk in the forest, watch the sun set, stargaze for a bit and go home.

I think Dream would have a similar celebration of walking in the woods but he would also write letters to Nim and Nightmare to gather his thoughts of what happened throughout the year and express how much he misses them.

And now I'm thinking of a truce au scenerio where they celebrate Yule together alongside their birthday and just be able to celebrate again like they did when they were younger and Dream can finally fully come back to his traditions

[l-in-the-light]

How do the Heart Pirates celebrate Christmas and the time around (if there's sth in the OP universe 😁)? 🎅🏻🎅🏻🎅🏻

I'm slightly late, but Merry Christmas! 🎄🎁🌟 Are you perhaps the same anon who asked about Law's birthday celebration? Even if not, I just wanted to mention it because both asks warmed my heart ❤

I will tackle your question in two, or actually, three ways. First, I will use my knowledge in the field of anthropology to try to break down Christmas-like traditions in the world of One Piece. Secondly, I will try to relate real-world customs to Flevance, basing it on (rather obscure) hints in the manga. You would be surprised what can be guessed about their culture just from a few facts we got. And lastly, I will try to sprinkle some ideas about how Hearts would choose to spend their Christmas ;) I hope you will enjoy the read!

Christmas in One Piece (seems it's actually Winter Solstice)

We don't get much information on that, not directly at least. Would they celebrate Christmas as the rebirth of the sun? That's the origin of old traditions (like Yule/Winter Solstice and Saturnalia); celebration of light and changing of seasons. It marks the end of the darkest days of winter, because days start to be longer so you see more sun around. Some folk traditions survived till today (like straw goats in the North or festivals of fire) or chosen elements got incorporated into Christian customs: wreaths, carolling, misletoe and gift-giving, among others. You could say in our world Christianity tried to get rid of "pagan cultures", but when it realized it can't unroot them, they started to incorporate religious imagery into their traditions. This way they didn't erase Winter Solstice, they instead stole it as their own custom, heh. Which is part of the reason why Christianity spread around the world so effectively. But this process wasn't peaceful everywhere.

But how does it relate to One Piece? I remember they mentioned a Winter Solstice in Elbaf: they eat semla, then are fasting till "sun gets reborn" (our advent used to be about fasting as well, btw. Nowadays that tradition died out). Winter Solstice is often tied to the Norse beliefs. There was also this legend about the two kings: Oak King (also sometimes called the Sun King) and Holly King, always fighting each other so one of them can rule the next season. Perhaps Giants, besides Semla, also cultivated the old Yule log tradition? I admit that would really fit right in. But I don't think every island in OP world has same traditions, because they're all so isolated from each other. So just because Giants have Winter Solstice doesn't mean it's celebrated everywhere and even if it's a widespread custom, it's likely it's not done in exactly same way.

Why are beliefs about sun god present among various people of the world (Shandorians, Giants from Elbaf, Bucaneers)? Is it the same like in our world, that in many cultures there's a concept of some kind of sun deity and sometimes it's even the most important one? We have traditions of various sun dances in native beliefs of North America (and a sun dance in one tribe can be drastically different from others, but a ritual called this way exists among most of Great Plains tribes). Ancient Mayan and Aztec beliefs also had their own sun deities, and even the most isolated tribes in Amazon Rainforest also had some. Egyptians and Japanese have their own sun deities etc.

We have no idea why everyone worshipped the sun, even though we can guess as to why they found sun important in general. And I think that mystery will probably stay unsolved in OP universe as well. We might find out that the origin of Nika comes from one, specific culture (be it Elbaf or something more ancient - my guess is on the latter), or we might find out there were always multiple sun deities beliefs in the world and the source of it's origin can only be speculated. But we still should keep one fact in mind: we saw Government use Mother Carmel before to spread religion around, which could be the analogy to Christianity swallowing up native customs, like it happened in our world as well. That could suggest the sun god church is a religion spread by the Government and would explain why they really wanted that Nika devil fruit so badly (but that would mean they want their own, acceptable version of a sun god, not Nika - that name is apparently forbidden). But at this point, it's just a speculation.

But back to the main topic: Law and Hearts are mostly from North Blue, so they might share similar traditions, not counting some of the crewmates they likely recruited on the Grand Line. I suspect traditions are somewhat similar in their respective Blues, but might wary drastically between, let's say, South Blue and West Blue, thanks to the impenetrable wall seperating them for centuries. North Blue seems to be based on wintery regions of our world, so their customs might be reminiscent of those as well (for example, focus on illuminations, lights and candles/lanterns).

Situation gets more tricky with the rest of the Blues actually, we know very little about South and West Blue. South has some regions looking rather exotic (Torino Kingdom or Baterilla) and some appear to be very dangerous places, suffering from high criminal and poverty rates, like the home country of Kid Pirates. We have also region clearly inspired by Russia and Brazil there. There's a lot of disproportions, but the mash-up of different cultures suggest that each of them probably has their own, unique traditions. In comparison, West Blue is home to many rich-looking kingdoms, as well as having some world-wide recognized heritage like Scholars of Ohara, Kano (with it's long standing traditions like China), mysterious european-looking Thriller Bark before it became an actual Thriller Bark, there's also a country based on Hollywood. It's not much to go by, but Christmas in rich countries tends to be more consumption-focused and multicultural (doesn't mean it erases the differences between cultures, but it makes them become less distinct). Even Bege, who comes from West Blue, is based on Italian mafioso who has taste in expensive things (I'm basing it solely on his clothes and hat choices, but also him being big on keeping appearances and high hygiene standards, lol).

We saw plenty of East Blue, and I would say they're the poorest, but also homogenous and peaceful region of the world (people living in small villages like Foosha or Coco Village, depending on harvest from groves or getting most income from "travellers" - mostly pirates and bandits - since Foosha is a really small place but has an actual bar and it's probably because it's also a port town. And port towns are usually richer than inland cities thanks to trade etc.), close local communities in small towns (Orange Town), and the only truly flourishing place is Shell's Town, because it has a Marine base, and Goa Kingdom (wouldn't really call it flourishing, more like parasiting). Most of their traditions would be probably centered around village life and agriculture. Seems it's also never snowing there, so Christmas celebrations are probably absent, but there are most likely feasts shared together as a community instead.

Heart Pirates would try a lot of different, traditional food and customs from all around the world while travelling the Grand Line, and that sea is for sure even more unique when it comes to cultures (it has Egypt and Spain and old Japan!). Maybe some countries don't really celebrate Christmas and instead focus on New Year (like in Japan, all they do for Christmas is eating christmas shortcakes, look at illuminations and go on dates. yes, dates. Often they also eat chicken from KFC, because it became trendy there in Christmas season. Of course, Christmas is an imported holiday there, they didn't have anything like that before). Maybe on some islands they have unique traditions akin to the Diwali, the Festival of Lights? Or perhaps they do Christmas picnics or barbeque outside (Franky would love the latter!) in summer-like weather, like in South Africa, accompanied by some mango and palm trees decorated with ornaments; after all each island has it's own distinct climate! It's also possible there are many different dates for Christmas on Grand Line, spanning the length of two months - which means a Christmas-focused tour would be possible, to experience all sorts of different traditions and food one after another :D

Does Santa Claus exist in One Piece world? (canonically - not yet!)

Santa is probably not widespread belief in One Piece world, judging from the Drum Island arc.

There's no guy with long beard dressed in red and white, riding sleigh, going down the chimneys and giving people presents; just some rumours of a doctor travelling with a pet reindeer curing people of illnesses and taking their money for it. If Santa Claus was a thing, it would be mentioned in this scene or in the arc, but it wasn't, not even once. Instead of being called a fake Santa abomination, Kureha earned herself a witch nickname. For me that's a proof Santa Claus never existed, not even as just a random story from some winter country.

But not all hope is lost yet! Now, that I think about it, Wapol made a fortune by making specifically toys for kids. Doesn't that ring any bells? And he comes from Drum Kingdom originally! If he ever gets back to his country and starts giving those toys for free, that would be the One Piece's own Santa's origin story, haha. All the pieces are fitting lol. And we would still get Kureha with the sleigh distributing the gifts! Like I know, Wapol is a terrible person and a coward, but he's also going through second biggest crisis in his life currently. If he ever gets brave enough to reveal the truth to the world about Imu, his hair might go white as the result of all the accumulated stress and anxiety, lol. Wapol becoming the future Santa Claus is not something I expected to foresee for the end of One Piece, but it sure is a delight to imagine, haha.

Short answer: YES, he would be grumpy, but he wouldn't try to destroy the fun for others!

Hearts Pirates celebrating Christmas-like traditions on their voyage around the Grand Line

I mentioned before that Law doesn't seem the type who celebrates his birthday, and considering his reasons for it I think it would be likely that he would avoid Christmas-like celebrations as well. They might remind him of his home and the family he lost, because those are family-centered holidays. But let's face it: even if he's the captain he wouldn't be able to ban his own crew from celebrating Christmas. But whenever Hearts do a celebration on the Polar Tang, Law will probably try to vanish quickly, to his cabin or to the deck (I assume they wouldn't celebrate while submerged, because then part of the crew would have to work on maintaining the submarine instead of celebrating, you know).

One of the possible compromises Law might agree to would be celebrating unique traditions on different islands, which means they stay somewhere on land to celebrate. This way his crew gets to enjoy stuff, Law is less grumpy, and they also experience some adventures. So, instead of doing the same thing every single year, they would make it a point to try out a different tradition each year! (a dream come true tbh) After they decide which island they visit, they start preparations, asking for local traditions, creating ornaments or baking cakes together to contribute. I mean, it's Law's crew, they're a bunch of planners, right? I bet he taught them well.

On the day of celebration they all go to the land and have fun together, dressing up Christmas trees (if the place has that tradition), taking part in the feast, participating in eating contests, getting souvenirs like a true tourists from Christmas markets etc. I bet you at least once they ran into Strawhats and maybe also Kid Pirates (or heck, half of the worst gen, because why not, lol). That ends in some idiotic competitions. For example, our traditional Christmas soup is borscht with dumplings, so they could be taking part in "who eats the most bowls of borscht wins". You would think it would become a close battle between Kid and Luffy, but surprisingly enough Law would stay in the run, probably thanks to cheating on the side (shambling his portions of borscht away as he pretends to gulp down bowls in one go, lol). Because he can be a brat as well and would use his skills to his advantage :D they would have to really blackmail him hard into agreeing to even take part in this contest in the first place though.

They would for sure convince him into secret santa gift exchange and he would dread it, because he has to get something for someone like Usopp or Urouge, and he doesn't know much about them. Thankfully he can get advice from Penguin and Shachi who became best buddies with Usopp in Wano and they end up choosing something together. Law himself receives a figurine made out of straw that oddly reminds him of someone and he is convinced Kid gave him that, to mock him about his hidden adoration of a certain pirate-king-to-be (the gift was actually from Killer, lol).

At the end of the day the Strawhats would make a family-style feast on the Sunny and invite everyone, and then in the middle of the night Luffy and Usopp would try to catch Santa putting gifts under the Christmas tree, but they end up falling asleep while waiting. After witnessing that, Law, who rarely gets a good night of sleep, would have mercy on them and ask Jean Bart to dress up as Santa Claus and leave some presents under the tree. Zoro caught him and teased him about it, thankfully Law had some alcohol he could bribe him with to keep it a secret. He decided to ask Jean Bart to do the same for the Heart Pirates, who are in tears the next morning as they shout excited to each other that there are mysterious presents under the tree. Some guess Law was behind it though, but some never find out (Bepo, for example, lol, who ends up believing in Santa ever since).

Mining customs of Flevance and celebration of the sun; advent was likely a big thing

Ever wondered how Flevance would celebrate Christmas? I sure did. Considering that Flevance had a church and the only religion we know of in OP is centered on the sun god, I would assume Christmas was slightly more Christian, with kids carolling, visiting the church at midnight to give thanks to the sun god, having a feast with families at home, traditionally without meat. They would have Christmas markets though, because German vibes. But since Flevance is also a mining country, I would assume mining traditions were important there. For example, miners parades (it used to happen as the grand finale at the Christmas markets, miners played some musical instruments as they walked around the town square, maybe even marching all the way from or to the mines). We saw that parades are part of celebrations in Flevance (and Law mentioned as a child that celebrations are common in his town in general), so this seems canon-accurate (and also close to our real world mining customs which often include parades of miners playing musical instruments!).

That figure of a winged lady on a fountain is probably a Patron of Miners, that's why she appears to be holding a torch of some kind. In our world that could be the Saint Barbara or some Lady of Flevance (as a possible analogy to Our Lady of Lebanon, because church is also important in Flevance). Or you know, a Sun Goddess, if sun god has a different image depending on the country you visit. Why would a Sun God be a patron of miners? Because miners worked deep beneath the ground and as the result really yearned for sun, especially in winter months, when both days and nights were dark. That's how the famous light illuminations traditions got born, so they can lead husbands to their homes after their work shift is done in the mines. Those illuminations back in the days were candles or lanterns. That's why Lady of Flevance holding a torch makes a lot of sense (and yes, I'm gonna call her that for now, I kinda like the ring of it, haha).

In the backstory on Flevance it's revealed that people there were really good in craftswork, and mining towns often have ties to that field as well, so It's possible Flevance also had things like this:

In some mining towns they often put a figurine of a miner and an angel as candle-holders. They put them on windowpanes, so the light of the candles illuminates the darkness on long winter days. Some traditions mention that the angel figurine was for the wife, while they could be multiple miner figurines, each symbolizing one kid in the family (which means Trafalgars would get two). Some other sources mentioned an angel was for the girl child and miner for the boy child in the family. Other possible popular figurines and motives could be old guys smoking a pipe and nutcrackers. And of course the Angel Lady Patron.

Or instead of that, they could place some decorative wooden arches in the windows, depicting wintery landscapes, everyday life or mining scenes, with candles displayed, like this: Schwibbögen.

The wooden decorations would be, of course, white, because forests in Flevance were also white, even the fir trees! Ignore that they're not white in the colored version of the manga, haha. Or perhaps the candle-holders would take the form of Christmas pyramids, considering how Law's nationality would be German? (those pyramids also originated from mining traditions btw) :D

I bet you anything though, that whatever they would display in their windows in Flevance, it would be made out of amber lead, so ouchie. Beautiful, pristine white and deadly :/ Flevance was known for skilled craftsmen so I'm sure their decorations were very beautiful and full of exquisite details.

In my country mining traditions were centered around the 4th of December, it was called Saint Barbara Day or Miner's Day, and focused mainly on appreciating the patron. Saint Barbara was the most popular/universal mining patron, but there were some special, field-specialized patrons as well (Saint Kinga for salt mines in particular). There were some minor customs accompanying it, like fortune-telling: picking up special branches (of cherry tree or forsythia) that indicated different wishes for the future (good fortune in coming year, easy marriage etc.). There was also a special gingerbread bread baked for this occassion (yes, bread made out of gingerbread :D this is most likely an even older tradition originally). In Flevance they could bake some traditional white pastry instead, maybe meringue which is often powdery and white, so it would fit really nicely with the fairytale wonderland image of Flevance. On the day of the patron they also held a ceremony for new miners joining who had to go through a special rite of passage, which included jumping over a piece of leather or a special miner apron. They also drank a lot, mostly beer, but I'm sure mulled wine was a popular drink in mining towns too.

Flevance probably also celebrated Candlemas - 40 days after Christmas they officially took down Christmas decorations, also in the town squares. Before Christmas they also celebrated last shift - basically finishing up work earlier and celebrating, singing and eating together. Mining celebrations used to be cheerful, included lots of singing/playing music and drinking, and also light illuminations and parades in towns. Since Flevance became a rich country, I would expect some Christmas markets emerging as well as the result. Let's not forget that Flevance was also religious, and that also checks out for mining towns. Miners would usually start their day by giving prayer to a Mining Patron figure (in this case the winged Lady of Flevance) or attending the mass before work, on special occassions performed even inside the mines.

Special torches/poled lanterns used for special occassions.

Mining was a hard job, exposing people to dangers like cave-ins and extreme temperatures, risks like standing close to explosions (and their possible miscalculated consequences), toxic air from excavation, and some long-term health effects. People working constantly underground, aware that if something happens they might never get out unless a miracle happens, often turned to religion. They prayed for safety and protection, that's why church also becomes important as the consequence. I bet Law as a child saw miners often in the hospital; serious injuries and accidents are one of the most common risks coming with this job. Of course miners dedication and commitment delivers irreplacable resources, not only for one town or whole country, but global economy in general. And yet even nowadays miners face many problems, also related to no good health care and no proper support from the government. We saw what Government did to help Flevance... oh right, they didn't help. They instead waited like vultures for the situation to get worse, so they can be excused for executing drastic measures.

Coincidentally, Jail Island in the game One Piece World Seeker, is also a mining town, and it holds many secrets and attracts extreme interest of the Government.

Geez, I wrote a lot. Anyone actually finished reading this post? 😅

[dustedcreationsblog]

Why Christmas is not related to Christ Jesus nor Christianity

A search on the internet will tell you that Christmas is a Christian holiday (I don't think I read that in the Bible) celebrating the birthday of Jesus Christ. Where in the Bible was the birth date of Jesus Christ given? It doesn't even give the date of the 25th of December. Christmas means "mass on Christ's day" how did it come to be that that was Christ's day? I know that He says He's Lord of the sabbath and that's God's day is the sabbath but Christmas? No. Christmas is the English term. "The earlier term Yule may have derived from the Germanic jōl or the Anglo-Saxon geōl, which referred to the feast of the winter solstice." Yule which is "the pre-Christian festival originating in Scandinavia which was later subsumed, along with other pagan celebrations, into the Christian holiday of Christmas." There are pagan roots, celebrations in it, how does it glorify Jesus? God? People might say, oh but they sing Christmas carols and there's the nativity. Please, it doesn't matter if that is done on that day when there are parts of Christmas which are contributed from celebrations offered to idols or possible pagan gods. "Yule celebrations began as a Norse festival called jol, although assessments of the purpose and traditions vary. Like most winter solstice festivals, themes of light, fire, and feasting are common threads. Some historians think that sacrifices were an important part of the observance, either to the gods and other supernatural beings (such as elves) or to the dead or both." "Since the early 20th century, Christmas has also been a secular family holiday, observed by Christians and non-Christians alike, devoid of Christian elements, and marked by an increasingly elaborate exchange of gifts. In this secular Christmas celebration, a mythical figure named Santa Claus plays the pivotal role." If it's really about Jesus Christ, why is there an image of a mythical man called Santa Claus? What does he have to do with Jesus Christ? As the quote above said, Christians and non-Christians celebrate it. Why would non-Christians, people who don't believe in, nor follow or have accepted Christ as their personal saviour, celebrate the day? How strange that is, a day allegedly dedicated to Christ is celebrated by a non believer who can celebrate that day yet still not want to seek or receive Christ Jesus. "The precise origin of assigning December 25 as the birth date of Jesus is unclear. The New Testament provides no clues in this regard. December 25 was first identified as the date of Jesus’ birth by Sextus Julius Africanus in 221 and later became the universally accepted date. One widespread explanation of the origin of this date is that December 25 was the Christianizing of the dies solis invicti nati (“day of the birth of the unconquered sun”), a popular holiday in the Roman Empire that celebrated the winter solstice as a symbol of the resurgence of the sun, the casting away of winter and the heralding of the rebirth of spring and summer. " Gosh, the Roman Empire and it's influence in Christianity is. . .I'm speechless. Many people are being led astray by their "traditions", "doctrines" etc. So much falseness. I'm not even surprised. Saturnalia: "The influence of the Saturnalia upon the celebrations of Christmas and the New Year has been direct. The fact that Christmas was celebrated on the birthday of the unconquered sun (dies solis invicti nati) gave the season a solar background, connected with the kalends of January (January 1, the Roman New Year) when houses were decorated with greenery and lights, and presents were given to children and the poor." "Saturnalia celebrations are the source of many of the traditions we now associate with Christmas, such as wreaths, candles, feasting and gift-giving." "The pagan celebration of Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture and time, began as a single day, but by the late Republic (133-31 B.C.) it had expanded to a weeklong festival beginning December 17. (On the Julian calendar, which the Romans used at the time, the winter solstice fell on December 25.)"

[timmtamdrake]

as a witch that was formerly Christian. not Catholic just Christian. seeing people debate the meaning of Christmas honestly is both upsetting and funny.

it was never about the birth of Christ and isn't for may people. its a time to get together with family and friends and enjoy their company.

and don't tell me that Christians didn't steal that tradition from pagans because it is known fact that they did. in an act to turn people to there religion.

as well as claiming it isn't celebrated after the winter solstice. it is, it happens to be celebrated for multiple days. and so many things that were yule traditions that are now Christmas traditions.

I just want to reiterate: It was never about the birth of Christ until the church stole it from pagans.

[vioredynamite]

Those who say "actually Christmas is a secular holiday" and those who say "actually Christmas is a pagan/Yule-based holiday" are two branches of the same kind of insufferable people.

I'm an atheist so I'm not interested in celebrating Christmas, no matter how "secular" they want to dress it up. And besides I live in the southern hemisphere, I don't give a shit about Yule and the winter solstice (of the northern hemisphere).

[moonlatias]

Belated season's greetings--Merry Christmas, Blessed Yule, Happy Hanukkah, and so forth~

Been super quiet lately because of all the holiday celebrations--did my annual vigil on the Winter Solstice. Mostly just stayed up watching terrible Rifftrax Christmas movies, lol. We had a lovely dinner to go with, and lit candles in honor of the reborn God and the Goddess who now sleeps within the earth.

Christmas Eve and Christmas were very nice celebrations. It's usually just me and my spouse on Christmas Eve, exchanging our gifts for each other, then we spend time with family on Christmas Day exchanging gifts with them. Big dinners involved on both days. I'm still so full, lol.

I got so many nice and meaningful gifts this year. Some notable ones for my spiritual path include Scott Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic, which I'm happy I decided to ask for because it really fits everything I was hoping to have in a crystal book. (I was waffling between a bunch of different ones.)

I also received the official World of Warcraft tarot deck that came out earlier this year, which made me so so happy. I think this above all my other decks will really invite a lot of intuitive readings, because I have such a deep, personal connection to WoW and its lore. There's going to be way more symbolism and meaning behind each card for me personally, than what the author provides in the guidebook. Besides that, I think the deck is beautifully illustrated and actually is faithful to much of the symbology from the Rider-Waite tarot cards, which I've found many tarot decks don't do very well. First reading to try it out was very nice, so I look forward to continuing to use it!

There were a lot of other really special gifts to me, all of which helped me really feel secure in the spiritual path I've chosen while also honoring my Catholic background and what I learned from growing up with that. None of it was a "waste" or "wrong path." It was all a part of getting me to where I am now.

And as the new year approaching, I'm secure in the things I'm dedicated to and what I want to accomplish going forward!

[wheretheharekissesthefox]

Bon appétit – Holiday Special: Snow Cone

[Astarion/Gale]

Astarion & Gale enjoy a walk in the fresh snow. Shenanigans occur, freaky ideas are tried, dirty fantasies get shared. Who knew snowmen were helpful for... other forms of entertainment?

This belongs to the "Bon Appétit" universe, but can be read as a stand-alone. There are spoilers regarding Astarion & Gale relationship status and Gale's job situation though.

Happy holidays, Christmas, Hanukkah, Yule, Midwinter, Winter Solstice, or whatever else you're celebrating! Here's a little gift from me to you <3

Trigger warning (18+): Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, No Magic, No Vampire, Graphic Description of Sex, Smut, Anal Sex, Fingering, Sex In The Snow, Unorthodox Use of Icicles, Misuse of Snowmen, Improvised Sex Toys (don't try this at home kids), Accidental Voyeurism, Overall Mandatory Snow-related Activities, Domestic Fluff

When Gale pitter-pattered into the kitchen that morning, he was almost blinded by the brightness of the snow outside the windows which had covered everything in sight. Grunting and squinting, Gale made it to the electric kettle and got the water boiling. He needed tea. A nice spicy chai with milk would be preferred, but he was too lazy to make it himself, or to drive to the Emerald Grove. Thus, he settled for a lovely cup of rooibos tea. While Gale grabbed the mugs and placed the tea bags inside, Tara weaved between his legs, loudly demanding her breakfast.

"I hear you, my dear," Gale chuckled. "Give me a moment."

He walked over to the fridge - careful to neither step on Tara, nor trip over her - and fetched a vial of Vetsulin. He picked up a fresh syringe from the stash next the fridge, ripped open the packaging, uncapped the bottle, lowered the needle into it, and filled it with the clear liquid up to the necessary line. In a practised manner, Gale placed the vial on the kitchen counter, kneeled down, and got a hold of his beloved cat. He kissed her head before spreading the fur on her left hind leg.

"You know the drill, little love," Gale murmured before carefully pushing the needle into the flesh and slowly injecting the diabetes medication. Tara grumbled, but didn't make a scene. She was used to it by now and behaved like the distinguished lady she was. She received another kiss for her good behaviour, and she purred happily as her chin was scratched. With a grunt and a loud crunch of the knee, Gale got up to serve Tara her well-deserved breakfast. As she chowed it down happily, the professor-turned-librarian prepared some sandwiches for Astarion and himself before steeping the tea. Then, he placed everything on a tray and brought it to the bedroom where his husband was still sprawled out and pretending to be snoozing. Gale nudged Astarion's thigh with his foot and balanced the tray in his hands while sitting down. Grumbling, the blond propped himself up against the headboard and eyed the offered meal.

"Cheese-ham toast? You know me so well." Astarion smiled and took a big bite, moaning in the process. "I love you so much."

Gale chuckled amused and replied: "I love you too."

He placed a kiss on his husband's cheek before grabbing his own sandwich.

They ate in silence until Gale asked: "What do you think about a walk in the snow?"

"It snowed?" gasped Astarion in disbelief. "It's only Mid-November!"

Without waiting for a reply, he scrambled out of bed, almost tripping in the process when his foot got tangled in the blanket, and sprinted to the window. An excited laugh escaped him as the blinds rolled up and revealed the picture-perfect Winter Wonderland.

"Hell yes!" Astarion beamed. "I absolutely want to go for a walk! I want to make a snow angel."

"Really?" Gale chuckled amused.

"Yes," nodded his husband, much more seriously than expected. "I've never done it before. Cazador... He hated snow and the cold. I... I wasn't allowed outside by myself."

"What?" Gale's face fell in shock. "Why?"

Astarion simply shrugged.

"He was a very possessive man. He never let me out of his sight."

Gale's gut clenched uncomfortably. Suddenly, he wasn't hungry anymore. He swallowed thickly, desperately searching for the right words to say.

"I'm sorry you had to go through that, it sounds awful." After a small pause, he added: "I hope you know I'd never do such a thing."

"I know," retorted the blond, smiling softly. "You're nothing like him."

Gale was flooded with relief and he sighed as his stomach unclenched and growled loudly. Quickly, he finished his sandwich. They had places to go.

They sauntered through the winter landscape, hand in hand, the powdery white glittering around them like Swarovski crystals, the blue sky clear, and the midday sun golden and warming their rosy faces.

Gale led his husband towards the edge of town where a wide strip of meadow parted the city from the nearby forest. There, the snow was still fluffy and untouched, not trampled and salted to ugly, grey slush. With a sweeping gesture, Gale spread his free arm.

"Here we are; the perfect battleground for making snow angels! People from near and close come to this remote spot to make their dreams of divine ascension come true." Astarion snickered amused. "Go on, have some fun."

The blond was frozen in place, wringing his hands nervously, and Gale's smile faded.

"What's wr-"

"I don't know how." The words were bursting from Astarion who looked deeply ashamed and embarrassed. "I don't know how to make snow angels. Can you – can you show me? Please?"

To Gale's utter horror, his husband's eyes were brimming with tears of frustration. He quickly pulled him into a hug.

"Of course," Gale answered and stepped further into the snow. "It's easy, really. Just find a spot with a generous amount of snow, lay down - oof, my knees! - like this; the starfish position. And then, you just -" He started moving his spread arms up and down and opened and closed his outstretched legs. "- move like demonstrated, and you're done. - A hand? Please?"

Chuckling, Astarion helped Gale back up, amused by the grunts, huffs, and popping knees.

"You're getting old, my love," he teased, making his husband snort. Before he got a reply, Astarion plopped down, stretched out his limbs and wildly flailed them to leave an imprint in the snowy ground. Gale watched, smiling softly, and pulled his husband onto his feet when he made grabby hands towards him. With a giggle, Astarion turned around to look at his work.

"I did it! I made my first snow angel!"

He laughed, with his cheeks all flushed, and Gale wanted to kiss him breathless.

"Well done. How about another one? It's custom to make multiple ones, or otherwise your angel's lonely," the brunet spoke.

"Really?" Astarion looked at him, all big-eyed and soft. "Is that true, or are you taking the piss out of me?"

"True Waterdhavian tradition, I swear," Gale answered, smiling. "Do you want me to join you?"

At that, Astarion beamed at him.

"Absolutely!"

Together, they lay back down and created a few more snow angels, laughing and giggling like children while doing so. Red-cheeked and smiling, Astarion turned his head to gaze at Gale. His puffs of breath left little white flags in the cold air, curling up like smoke from a chimney.

"This is awesome," he admitted, uncharacteristically shyly. "Thank you for showing me."

"Well, we're not done yet," replied Gale, in an equally jolly mood. "Next, we must build a snowman."

Astarion's eyes lit up and he scrambled off the ground, impatiently pulling his husband up. The latter laughed at the blond's eagerness, but wasted no time to lead him further onto the field to instruct the snowman-building process.

"You start with a small snowball, like so, and roll it across the ground so that it'll gather up more snow and grows. That's why it's important to do this somewhere where there's enough snow."

"And what if there isn't?"

"Well, then, you can technically just stack three small snowballs on top of each other, but it'll look rather sad that way."

"Better a sad snowman than no snowman at all."

"Maybe. Now, keep rolling it, no slacking off."

"Hah! You're one to talk!"

"I'm literally creating the second snowball right now, don't project!"

Laughing, Astarion went back to his task until he'd formed a knee-high ball. Gale carried his snowball, which was slightly smaller, over and placed it on top of Astarion's. They fixed them together with a bit of extra snow by patting it onto the seams were the snowballs touched. Then, Gale instructed Astarion to roll a third snowball for the snowman's head. Meanwhile, the brunet stomped off towards the small, tree-lined creek that flowed across the meadow. Panting from the exertion, Astarion placed the third snowball on their art piece. It reached up to his chest. Gale came back with a handful of pebbles, a pinecone, and two twigs. Astarion frowned and asked: "What's that for?"

"The details, of course. Otherwise, our snowman just looks like an sad-looking tower," Gale explained cheerfully. "Here, use the pebbles to give him a pair of eyes and a smile."

Astarion did as he was told while beaming with childlike excitement. Gale completed the snowman by using the pinecone as a nose and the twigs as arms. Then, they took a step back to admire their work.

"Look at this distinguished gentleman," Gale joked. "A true looker. All the snowwomen on the field will fall for his charm."

"Just like all the other snowfolks," Astarion added, grinning. They chuckled and looked at their creation again.

"We did that," said the blond, sounding awestruck. "I did that. I've never thought I ever will. Thank you, Gale." He pulled his husband into a kiss. "This is a gift, you know, and I won't forget it."

"It's just a snowman and a few snow angels," the addressed replied, confused.

"No. It's more than that." Astarion kissed him again. "You gave me the world."

The embrace tightened, their tongues tangled, their breaths mingled. For a moment, it was just the two of them, and the rest of the world faded out of existence. When they finally parted, they were both panting and flushed.

"Come on, I want to show you something else," Gale smiled and took Astarion's hand to lead him to the creek. The stream was in a slightly slanted bed, and a simple wooden fence marked the slope. Gale pointed at the icicles growing from the wood which glinted in the sunlight.

"There's so much beauty in the small and simple things," he mused. "It's rather astonishing to think that it's simply frozen water. Imagine the art you could create if you could bent water to your liking. The sculptures you could bring to life." With a happy, little sigh, Gale leaned against the fence to gaze at the half-frozen creek. "The way the sky reflects on the ice is marvellous. And did you know that each individual snowflake has a unique structure? Scientists discovered this thanks to microscopes. It truly is -"

His rambling was interrupted when Astarion draped himself across Gale's back, wrapped his arms around him, and kissed his exposed neck.

"Mmh, truly fascinating," the blond teased. "But what's even more fascinating, is you."

With that, he shoved his gloveless hands under Gale's jacket, flicked open his pants, and palmed his dick. The brunet gasped, leaning heavily against the fence.

"Astarion," he breathed. "We're in public!"

"Mhm, and I know it turns you on," purred the addressed. "Someone has a bit of a danger kink."

He accentuated his words with a bite to Gale's neck, making the latter moan. The brunet tightened his grip on the wooden fence. A reply was on the tip of his tongue, but the tantalizing combination of a squeeze and a slide of Astarion's hand along his dick made him keen instead, all his verbosity lost due to the sensation. Astarion grinned like the cat that got the canary and let his fingers glide along the silky skin. He knew exactly how Gale liked to be teased. With his other hand, he blindly fumbled for one of the icicles growing on the underside of the fence. Then, he trailed it up Gale's erection.

"Oooh, that's cold!" gasped the latter, jumping in Astarion's grip. The blond chuckled gleefully, teasing "It'll warm up soon." as he brought the rapidly melting icicle towards the glans, rubbing the slit.

"It would be small enough for sounding," Astarion grinned, and Gale's knees almost buckled as he whined. "Just imagine how an icicle would feel like entering your dick. How that ice-cold hardness would slide into your urethra."

"Fuck, Astarion..." keened the brunet, bucking into the cold hand wrapped around him. The addressed felt rather proud that he’d made Gale swear.

"Oh, you'd love that, wouldn't you?" he purred into his husband's ear. "We must explore that little fantasy of yours soon."

Gale's breath hitched and he groaned in anticipation. He thrust into Astarion's cold hand, relishing in the feeling of the small, leftover shard of the icicle rolling up and down the underside of his dick and slightly poking him once in a while. Gale moaned when Astarion pressed his noticeable erection against his ass.

"Ngh... yes! I'm so close," he groaned, fucking into the offered fist. But Astarion didn't let him finish and pulled his hand away. Gale shot him a slightly annoyed glare over his shoulder, but it was somewhat nullified by his wheezing.

"Not yet, darling," teased Astarion. "First, you must earn your reward."

Muttering colourful profanities under his breath, Gale pulled up his trousers and staggered after his husband who was walking upstream.

"Where are we going?" he wanted to know.

"You'll see," was the unhelpful answer.

As they made their way along the creek, they took notice of multiple snowmen and commented on them like they were judges of a fashion show. A very unlucky snowman got his carrot nose stolen by Astarion, who simply shrugged nonchalantly as Gale raised a brow in question.

When they'd almost reached the end of the field, Astarion pulled Gale behind a stack of wrapped haylage bales. As soon as they were hidden, they crashed their lips together and unzipped their pants.

"Fuck, you're hot!" groaned Astarion while grabbing his husband's semi-hardness with a cold hand. Gale made a noise of complaint, but didn't stop his partner from continuing. He was panting in anticipation as he got onto his hands and knees, goosebumps spreading across his skin as the cold dampness of the snow soaked through his trousers.

"Hold this for me, love," Astarion purred and pushed the carrot into Gale's mouth. The latter moaned, curled his tongue around the vegetable, and warmed it up, imagining it was his husband's cock. Meanwhile, Astarion exposed Gale's ass to the harsh winter air and ripped open a package of lube with his teeth. He squirted it onto Gale's hole, impatiently and messily, and quickly inserted two of his fingers, scissoring it open. With his free hand, Astarion started moving the carrot in and out of Gale's mouth in tandem with his fingers in the latter’s hole. Gale had closed his eyes, moaning wantonly, his cock hung heavily between his legs, steadily dripping precum onto the snow below. Astarion withdrew his fingers and the carrot, switching the latter into the other hand, and quickly pushed the vegetable into Gale's ass. The brunet's loud moan was silenced as the blond pushed two fingers into his mouth, pressing down against his wet tongue, causing Gale to drool. Astarion started to fuck the carrot in and out of his husband's hole, watching with satisfaction how the latter's eyes rolled back in his head.

"Gorgeous," he murmured. For a second, Astarion thought about abandoning his plan and fucking Gale's mouth instead of his ass. When the blond pulled his fingers out of the brunet's mouth, a thick string of saliva still connected them with the latter's tongue. Astarion couldn't resist to kiss that sinful mouth before moving behind Gale and opening another package of lube. To keep his hands clean, he squeezed its content onto his husband's crack. The blond quickly freed his erection and rubbed it between Gale's ass cheeks to coat his dick with lube. With satisfaction, he watched how the brunet gasped and dropped down onto his elbows to arch his back. His pink hole winked at Astarion and he took it as an invitation to push his cock inside it. They both moaned in unison, and Astarion held onto Gale's ass to fuck him fast and hard. Gale moaned and mewled as his prostate got stimulated so viciously, drool dripping from his chin and precum from his slit, as his glutes flexed around the cock inside his ass. Astarion was huffing and grunting as he fucked his husband. He was so close already, only a few more pumps and he'd come inside Gale’s warm, tight ass. He closed his eyes, imagining how his cum would trickle from his husband's puffy hole afterwards and how Gale would have to walk home that way. A shiver ran down his spine, the sweat making his skin itch. Astarion felt the tell-tale twinge in his abdomen that signalled his orgasm, thus, he pushed his cock deep into Gale again, his own ass cheeks tensing. Almost there. So close, only a bit more –

"Snow-Wrestling isn't funny, you know?"

The couple startled, whipping around to, in horror, be greeted by the sight of a little girl standing next to them. She was wearing a green one-piece ski suit and a black knit cap with little, red, shiny horns on top and the words "Little devil" embroidered on the front.

"Uhm," Astarion uttered stupidly, still in shock of being caught fucking his husband by a child.

"Having snow shoved into your pants is really nasty," the girl babbled on. "Mattis did it to me once, and I cried because the cold hurt my butt so much." She fixed Astarion with a serious stare. "You shouldn't do that, it's not very nice. Mattis had to apologise to me afterwards and I got ice cream as a treat."

"Uh-hu," Astarion got out, desperately trying to hide the fact that his dick was still deep inside Gale's hole and about to burst. "I - uhm... I'm sorry, Gale. I won't shove snow into your pants again."

The addressed coughed, face burning with embarrassment, and said: "No harm done, but thank you."

As Gale shifted under him, Astarion bit his lip and buried his nails in his partner's love handles. He was about to come.

"See?" beamed the girl. "That wasn't hard, was it?"

"Hurry up, Arabella! Otherwise, Mattis and Silfy reach the top of the hill first and we'll lose the sledding challenge!" shouted another girl who was wearing a red snowsuit but the same knit cap which had slipped over one of her eyes. Cheerfully, the addressed yelled back: "I'm coming!"

So was Astarion, but in a different literary sense. He bit his lip to keep from moaning loudly, his eyes rolling back in his head as he exploded into Gale's ass, who clenched around him with a gasp and covered his groan with a fake cough.

"Okay, I'm going now," warbled Arabella. "It was nice to meet you. Bye!"

"Bye!" the men wheezed in unison. With laughter, the girl sprinted away and joined her friend.

"Holy shit!" gasped Astarion.

"You came in me while a child was present!" hissed Gale. "Get off me! Immediately!"

The addressed did as he was told as fast as if he'd been burned, and fell backwards onto his own ass while trying to pull up his pants.

"Fuck, that's cold!" Astarion yelped while Gale, with a scowl and popping knees, got up and fastened his trousers. He glared down at his husband and stated: "We'll never do this ever again."

"Fucking outside, or fucking while a child ogles us?" asked Astarion, fluttering his eyelashes.

"Both," Gale hissed.

"Aww, really? I thought you enjoyed our public display of affection."

"Okay, the latter," Gale grumbled after a pause for thought, and Astarion grinned like the cat that got the canary.

"I knew it, you little freak!" The blond kissed the brunet deeply. "And just to clarify; I love that you're an absolute freak."

Gale snorted inelegantly and gave Astarion a peck before taking his hand and tugging him back onto the path to walk home.

[blackcrowing]

Hello! As an Irish reconstructionist, do you maybe know any specific traditions in celebrating Mean Geimhreadh (Alban Arthan?? Are these the same things??)

Ok, so for me personally this is a REALLY complicated question. I focus my reconstructionism on ~approximately~ Iron Age traditions (I feel this is an 'authentically' 'Celtic Irish' period being an age when there is abundant evidence of the Pre-Christian religion we know of as 'pagan Irish' being practiced and not yet being blended with Christian practices and beliefs).

So as such I don't do anything for Meán Geimhridh. That is not necessarily to say that the peoples of the Iron Age didn't recognize the long hours of darkness on this day, because I am certain they did, but that as far as the evidence that is available to us it was not something that held great religious importance. While the Stone Age religion being practiced seemed to place great importance on the solstices (marking them very clearly in the monolithic monuments and passage tombs they built) and later the dates held importance to the blended cultures of Irish/Scandinavian (yule) and Irish/Christian (Christmas), the period of time I focus on is oddly silent about these solar phenomenon. Apparently, only being noted by the classical writers as Alban Arthan.

However, even here there is a great level of debate. I subscribe to the theory that this particular description of religious activity was actually a case of mistaken identity and was actually speaking of, not the 'Keltoí' peoples, but the Germanic tribes further north (who we KNOW would have recognized this time of year and KNOW had a special religious connection with mistletoe). Furthermore, even IF this historical account WAS speaking of what we think of as the 'celtic' cultures it was obviously addressing an act preformed on the continent, which we know held similar but separate traditions from the insular 'Celts'.

Which brings us back to looking at any evidence for Pre-Christian/Post-Stone Age traditions that mark this time, and we do see some (just not in so much in Ireland). In the UK we see a widespread tradition at this time of year involving the Wren and straw boys, but as far as my research can tell it was likely spread through the UK in its Christian guise and any pagan roots it has are likely Welsh is origin.

Lastly, there is the widespread idea of the Mistletoe King and the Oak King.... this, in my opinion, is a jumbled fabrication of the pagan renaissance of the 1800s, and so while it can be considered 'traditional' at this point, holds no more historical weight then the Wiccan 'wheel of the year.'

At the end of the day, I don't hold any religious significance to the event BUT if I were to try doing something I felt was historically accurate I would keep a fire stoked, keep my family and friends close, eat and drink and share stories and songs to keep us all entertained as we enjoyed each others company (so the basic blueprint for any winter festival in most of the world 😅)

[b4ts1e]

▀▄▀▄▀▄Traditions▄▀▄▀▄▀ (𝚐𝚗!𝙼𝙲)

𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛'𝚜 𝙸𝚗𝚌𝚕𝚞𝚍𝚎𝚍: 𝚀𝚒𝚞/𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚞𝚖𝚗 𝙻𝚒𝚗 𝚃𝚊𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝙱𝚊𝚞𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚗 𝙾𝚙𝚊𝚕 𝚂𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍 𝙼𝙲 𝚂𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚍 (𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝙾𝙻:𝙽&𝙵)

𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚙𝚝: The night before Halloween, the cul-de-sac trio decides to have a sleep over at MC's house- going trick or treating the next evening as a group. Based in Step 1

(𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚛𝚍 𝙿𝚎𝚛𝚜𝚘𝚗)

The cul-de-sac trio, all bundled up in their pajamas with a bunch of fluffy blankets (supplied by MC) together layed out on the floor with snacks as they huddled together, watching classic Halloween movies from Opal's laptop. (Imma draw this, at some point- I already have a refrence picked out.)

"I'm super excited to go trick or treating! My parents didn't really do Halloween, so this basically a first time for me!" Tamarack said excitedly shifting side to side- scooching just a bit closer to MC who resided in the middle of the trio, controlling the laptop while laid out on their stomach. "Really? Why didn't they?" Qiu asked, curiously- lifting himself up with his elbows slightly to get a better look at who he was talking to.

"I dunno, we just didn't. Not very common in German culture I guess, plus they were always busy." She said nonchalantly, not bothered much by it- too distracted by the movie playing on the screen. "Makes sense to be honest, cultures can be vastly different." MC spoke up, pausing the movie. "Oh? How do you know that?" Qiu asks, a smug smirk on his face but it was a genuine question.

"Well, living previously in the city- many different types of people lived there. Plus we used to move around alot for my mom's job- that said I had the oppertunity to meet a lot different people, or at least learn about them." MC explained a bit before Opal came into the room with a plate of decorated cookies- halloween themed of course. "So- how's the movie going kiddos? Need anything? Water, more blankets, anything?" She asked with a kind smile, putting the cookies down on MC's nearby desk.

"Hey momma? What was that guy from the bakery's name again? Him and his mother ran that place after moving from France to share his mom's recipes?" MC asked, shocking Opal a bit who just chuckled a bit but smiled anyways. "That was Monty sweetheart, why do you ask?" she replied gently, crossing her arms and leaning on the doorframe gently. "Tamarack is having her first genuine Halloween with us, and that turned into talk about different cultures." Autumn explained quickly, resulting in Opal to nod swiftly.

"Gotcha, well- Monty was from France. Just like how Tamarack's Omi and Opa were from Germany. Germans don't often celebrate Halloween because of one of their holidays: Martinstag. It's very similar to both Halloween and Christmas, but also- what me and MC celebrate: Yuletide. I don't know much about the specific details of the traditions or celebrations, but I do know they light lanterns, share treats, and have a communal bonfire." She explains a bit, teaching what she knows from her minimal experience. "Yuletide?" Tamarack asks, looking to MC with a questioning glance.

"Yeah, what's Yuletide?" Qiu asked with her, MC's eyes seemed to sparkle in delight at the mention of the holiday season. "Yuletide is the holiday season of what you both know as Christmas! Yule is the actual holiday. It's a whole two weeks of celebrations! We light bonfires, give gifts, do a simmer pot, cook together, decorate a yule tree, and a bunch more things! Christmas was derived from it actually!" they rambled on a bit, excited to be able to teach their friends about one of their own traditions.

"A WHOLE TWO WEEKS?!" Tamarack exclaimed, sparkles in her eyes- jaw dropped. "That's so lucky!" she said excitedly. "So do you get gifts everyday?" Qiu asked, making Opal chuckle a bit. "Well- we normally spend the first week and a half exchanging hand made gifts. The second week we spend quality time together but on the day of the winter solstice we exchange the rest of the presents we got each other." she explained with a happy sigh, recalling the memories.

"Do you think we could participate in each other's traditions this year? All together?" Qiu asked with sparkles in his eyes, Tamarack nods eagerly- grinning like a kid on Christmas. "Well I'd have to speak with both of your guardians first, but if they accept it- then I don't see why not!" Opal says happily, pulling out her phone. "I'll go give them a ring, you three get back to your movies and snacks!" she said before exiting the room, the three kids giddy and excited for the possibility of spending more than just Halloween together.

"I hope they say yes!" Tamarack said excited, hugging a stuffed animal tightly as she got back into her original position for watching the movie. "I hope so too! It'd be super fun to join our families for the holidays! Besides, even if they don't say yes I still intend to make and get you guys gifts for the holidays!" Qiu said with a grin. "Oh yeah? You sure you won't lose them?" MC teased him gently, earning a slight elbow to the arm- making them laugh a bit. "Either way- I had already planned to make you guys Yuletide gifts, but now I'm way more excited!" MC said hugging a pillow and snuggling it close.

"Aww MC!" Tamarack said before hugging them, "I'll be sure to make you some gifts as well!" she said happily. Qiu chuckled lightly, smiling softly "I will too, it's only fair. After all you do keep my papers from magically disappearing." he said with a smirk, leaning against MC lightly. "You mean, they keep your papers after you lose them?" Tamarack teased before getting a pillow thrown softly at her, both her and Qiu laughing as MC just laid their shaking their head and stiffling a laugh.

"You guys are the best, thank you for being my friends. Seriously." MC said with a soft smile, catching the other two off guard slightly. "Where did that come from?" Qiu asked with a chuckle, his hair dishevled and completely down. "I don't reallty know, just- thank you. Both of you." they said again. "MC!!!!!" Tamarack squealed before she practically tackled them in a hug, making Qiu get squished behind the two- but they all laughed despite that.

𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝙲𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 1,017

[crumpet-doodles]

Sorry,,, no fancy art from me this holiday season- you get this half-assed doodle of me currently before I'm forced to a party I don't want to go to.

Okay not to be a grinch or offensive or anything but lowkey???? I hate Christmas- my family is super-religious so I'm over here in the corner bEGGing to celebrate something that DOESN'T involve Jesus for once like. Yule, or the Winter Solstice, but nooooooooo-

Don't get me wrong Christmas is cool and stuff!!! But you can also celebrate other things without having to shove this holiday down people's throats!!!!!

WhenI get out of this fucking house I'm celebrating Yule. No more Christmas for me. Please. If's the same party every year at our house, the same food because it's Polish tradition, the same 2 families coming over. Stop the insanity.

Anyways, happy holidays, people- maybe I'll draw something better tomorrow.

[foodandfolklore]

Dry your own Orange Wheels and Peels

For many people it's strange to think that Oranges are often seen in winter decorations and are traditionally eaten this time of year. I know my house always had tangerines around, and I still buy them to this day in December. People also got them in their stockings as a treat. I didn't know still did this until I had my first Christmas with my now partner and they made me a stocking with an orange and apple. Gotta say, that orange was good. Now, this is partly because citrus fruits are in season in the winter. But there's another aspect.

The winter Solstice, the longest night of the year, is in December. Also called yule. It marks the celebration of the returning of the Sun, and Oranges are packed with solar energy. An orange wheel, fresh or dried, is a perfect symbol of the Sun to decorate with. Many people will dry their oranges during this season to make storage and decorating easier.

A dehydrator makes things a lot easier, but not everyone has one. However, fret not, you can still dry your oranges in the oven. You just need to set your oven to as low as it will go. Start at 150F and see if it will accept. Most ovens the lowest it will go will be between 160F to 200F. Don't try higher than 200F, your Oranges will get too toasty.

Orange Peel

If you want to just preserve orange peel, first decide what you are going to be using it for. If you plan to use it in things like tea, spell jars, basically need big chunks, simply use a vegetable peeler to peel the zest from the pith. Then place the strips on some parchment lined baking sheets, and place in the oven for around 30 minutes until they start to curl.

However, if you are wanting to use the peel in ways where us would need to be smaller; like curry powders, cookie doughs, and other general cooking, I strongly recommend grating your zest before drying. You can grind or cut up the larger chunks after they have dried, but orange zest (and all citrus to be honest) becomes rather leather like once dry. So grinding with a simple mortar and pestle is near impossible. You will need a coffee grinder or some other blender.

Orange Wheel

Lay your orange on it's side, so it's bump bits are on the left and right. This way, when you slice into the orange, you get your desired wheel look.

Now Start slicing. You want them to be fairly thin. I'm talking like no thicker than half a centimeter or quarter of a inch. If you have a mandolin, that'll make things easier. But if you're like me and don't have one nor can you consistently cut straight to save your life, fear not this will still work. These wheels just need to be thin.

One you have your wheels, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. You can dab off excess juice with a paper towel if you happen to have a leaky fruit. Place them in the oven and check on them after 3 hours. They may be done, or they may need more time. Be prepared to wait 6 or 7 hours drying orange wheels. Maybe have a home day planned.

If your wheels are getting brown but not dry, remove them from the oven and give them a moment to cool. Turn the tray around before placing back in the oven.

You can store these in a clean glass jar, and if done right can last a few years. This process will work with other types of Citrus too. Lemons, Limes, Grapefruits. You can make lovely decorations or dress up a gift in an eco friendly way.

[copiousloverofcopia]

Here is a new fic commission just in time for Christmas with a few more to come!!!!

Starting things off with some Terzo and Alessandra from my fic Tied as One Eternally for the lovely @captaingrebelguf!!!

Merry Christmas my love and I hope you all enjoy!

Commissions are OPEN, please see pinned post for Carrd info!

That Night Under the Mistletoe

During the Annual Yule Ball, Cardinal Terzo Emeritus spends the night listless until he sees Alessandra, one of the new Sisters of Sin.

If you have not read the fic this is a sequel for, please start there from the link above. Also available HERE on AO3!

Read more below the cut!

It was a long time ago now. A time when the champagne bubbles danced within glasses and the joyous music hummed blissfully in the air. The winter solstice celebrations were nearing their end and it was the Ministry's annual Yule Ball. Each of the siblings and ghouls, merry and gluttonous, as Lucifer intended. All the while truly appreciating the abundance that his dark grace had bestowed upon them during the year. 

Cardinal Terzo sat at the front table of the Hall. Positioned alongside his most trusted ghoul, Omega, and trying desperately to drown out the sound of Secondo gloating. His brother, insistent on droning on and on that he soon would become Papa. Terzo did his best to ignore him, mindlessly tracing his fingers along the edge of his glass and letting out a sigh. Wondering to himself if he was to be Omega again or if he would spend the evening alone.

He found himself scanning the room. Unable to appreciate the bright lights and happy faces. The beautiful decorations and whimsical party before him. Feeling empty as the night carried on. Just as he resolved himself to an early turn in, he saw her. The mysterious and willful Alessandra. A newer Sister of Sin from the most recent group of novitiates. She was surrounded by the rest of the crowd, yet somehow seemed as if she were by herself. The rest of them, only a blur with her silhouette against the bright lights—calling to him.  

She was breathtaking in a short, golden liquid knit dress. Dripping in sparkle and cinched at her waist. Her long dark curls, bouncing with each step and every curve on display. Smiling brightly as she worked the room with ease. The Cardinal was instantly smitten.

“Something on your mind.” Omega asked, nudging Terzo out of his thoughts. Noticing that he was obviously distracted. 

“Just admiring the view.” he mused, Omega following his line of sight to the sister. Rolling his eyes and twitching his tail in response. Terzo was intrigued by her, adjusting himself in his seat as he was visibly happy to see her. 

“If you’re so interested”, the ghoul jabbed, taking note of the visible swelling in Terzo’s pants, “why don't you go talk to her?” 

“You know what? That sounds like a great idea.” Terzo smirked, rising from his chair and practically hopping over the table to go greet her. Primo watched, glancing over to Omega and shaking his head. Secondo, only now stopping his monologue as Terzo took off across the room. 

“Where’s he off to?” he asked, having been completely aloof. Primo placed his hand on his brother’s shoulder. Giving him a look that implied they both knew where he was going and why. 

“He’s trying to find himself a good time...but I have a feeling it’s not going to go well.” Primo sighed, Secondo nodding and returning to his rambling. 

By the time he reached her, she was by the entryway doors. Ready to leave for the night and return to the solitude of her room. Just as Alé set foot on the threshold, Terzo brought himself between her and the exit. His abruptness was jarring, catching her off guard.

“Oh…I’m sorry Cardinal.” she responded, minding her manners. Knowing all too well that his intrusion in her space was anything accidental. Still, she would be expected to show respect with him as a member of the high clergy.

“No…no sorella. I apologize for startling you. You see I had noticed you from across the room and well I couldn’t help but come over to say hello.” he responded. The famous Emeritus charm oozing from every pore. His smile, mischievous like the Cheshire cat’s grin. Alessandra immediately recognized he was up to no good, but it didn’t help that he was also so incredibly handsome.  

She had been made well aware of him. The Cardinal’s reputation was one of legend within not only the Abbey but the whole of the Ministry. A man whose ability to charm someone out of their pants, was matched only by his proclivity to hop from one person to the next. Seemingly allergic to commitment, but somehow so convincing that he had been able to have his pick of anyone, siblings of sin and ghouls alike. 

Terzo, known for having a string of broken hearts in his wake. It was for that very reason Alessandra had been actively avoiding him. Unsure if her resolve would be enough to prevent her from suffering the same fate. Despite that, now they were face to face and there was nowhere to escape. His mismatched eyes, captivating as they stared deeply into hers. 

“Well now that you have, I’m sorry but I think I should go. I think I may have had a bit too much champagne.” she laughed nervously, hoping that her excuse would be enough for him to let it go. It was true, he was hard to resist even for someone as levelheaded and firm as her. Terzo smiled, closing the space between them. Coming closer and closer, forcing Alessandra to back up against the door frame. Trying her best to avoid the press of his body against her. 

“No need to be shy, sorella.” he said, glancing upward and noting the fortuitous placement of mistletoe. Alessandra looked up, her heart beating fast within her chest as she too caught sight of it. “Would you do your Cardinal the honor of a small kiss…we are under the mistletoe after all.” he reasoned.

His eyes had turned soft, unlike the lecherous gaze she had expected of him. What a clever disguise , Alé thought to herself. He was a notorious playboy, and she knew no matter how innocent and sweet those eyes looked now, succumbing to them meant she’d end up a notch on his belt and a story shared with the ghouls. But they were oh so enticing, Alé forced herself to divert her eyes, only worsening the situation when she found herself staring down at his pouty lips. Despite her better judgment, she began to cave. Closing her eyes before him. 

“Just this once.” she whispered, waiting for the press of his lips against hers. Terzo quickly grabbed hold of her hips and tried to kiss her. Unable to hold himself back from his passionate and lustful desires. His hands filled with the curves of Alessandra’s rear end just before a swift smack to the face. 

“You bastard!” she barked, eyes wide open and jaw clenched in anger. How dare he try to man handle me like that , she thought to herself. Steaming hot inside as Terzo’s arrogance once again had gotten the better of him.

“Aww come on sorella, don’t be like that.” he whined. Watching Alessandra’s face flush red. Doing everything in her power to restrain herself from slapping him again.  

“Get bent, you letch.” she snapped, shoving past him and heading down the main hall, towards the siblings’ wing. Terzo stood in the doorway. His hand held gently against the tender flesh of his cheek. The sting of Alé’s touch, still burning there.  

“Struck out?” laughed Omega as he approached. Relishing the humor of such a rare sight to see. 

“Seems that way, but you never know.” he winked as the two of them watched Alessandra disappear up the stairs. 

------------------Many years later…-------------------------------

The lights were tickling quietly on the Yule tree. Terzo, mesmerized by them as the memory of that night lingered on his thoughts. Though it had been many years, there were times when it felt like just yesterday—just the two of them beneath the mistletoe. Things have changed so much since then.

This year they had declined attending the Yule party. Choosing instead to enjoy the soft echoes of celebrations in the distance as their little family got nestled in for the night. It was hours ago when their oldest children, Mena and Dante had fallen asleep. Snuggled up against their father after a long day of wreaking havoc, as small children often do. Terzo and Alessandra’s newborn daughter, Luciana, too was slumbering away peacefully in her mother’s arms. 

Alessandra inhaled deeply. Enjoying the quiet moment shared between them, and the scent of pine that filled the air, when she noticed Terzo smiling beside her. Watching the lights on the tree. “What are you thinking about?” she asked him, resting her head on his shoulder while they listened to the cracking of the warm fire beside them in the Papal suite. 

“I was remembering that first Yule after you arrived.”

“Oh?” Alé laughed, remembering all too well how things had played out that night. “Yeah…that seems like a dream now, doesn't it?” she asked him. Both of them, watching little Luci wiggling around in her swaddle.  

“What we have now, is the dream.” he smirked, Alessandra perking up an eyebrow at him.

“You were something else then and you’re something else now.” she chuckled to herself, completely amused by his cheesy and yet still very romantic charm. Even after all this time. 

“Who knows what could have been had you only kissed me then, that night under the mistletoe.” 

“Hmm…” Alé hummed before kissing her husband. Both of them, careful not to wake the kids, “Guess we’ll never know.”