#the hourglass bookshop and cafe

[aces-and-kings]

Come to My Window

The soft morning light filtered through the dusty windows of The Hourglass, casting a warm glow upon the wooden shelves that held countless treasures, books of every size, color, and genre. Alex stood amidst the hushed whispers of literature, readying the bookshop for the day ahead. With practiced care, he placed books back on their rightful shelves, ensuring each one found its proper place.

The aroma of freshly baked pastries wafted through the air, a delightful accompaniment to the symphony of rustling pages. He'd risen early that morning to prepare the treats, an offering to the eager readers who would soon grace his sanctuary, temporarily calling it their own.

As he arranged the treats on a delicate silver tray, his fingers brushed against the heart-shaped birthmark on his upper left cheek - his unique identifier. It was a reminder of the love he had for the written word and the warmth he wished to extend to everyone who crossed his path.

With the final touches in place, the bookshop was ready to welcome its visitors. Alex took a moment to savor the tranquility before unlocking the front door, inviting the world to step into the refuge of stories and imagination he had lovingly crafted.

Once the first customers trickled in, he greeted them with a genuine smile and engaged in animated conversations about books, authors, and the magic of storytelling. It was evident that Alex was in his element, as the bookshop came alive with the energy of literary enthusiasts.

As the morning bustle settled into a steady rhythm, he stole a moment to himself, pouring a steaming cup of coffee, the comforting aroma enveloping him like a familiar embrace. With the warm mug cradled in his hands, he settled into a cozy chair by the window.

Opening the pages of a well-worn novel, he delve into a world of fantastical adventures and courageous characters. The words transporting him far beyond the boundaries of Ishgard, and for a while, he was lost in the magic of the written word.

Yet, a soft sigh escaped his lips as he glanced out of the window, his gaze drifting beyond the bustling streets and the horizon beyond. He couldn't help but wonder about his friends, scattered across the realm, each on their own unique journey. He hoped they were safe and well, and a twinge of longing tugged at his heart, wishing he could be with them in that moment.

As if in response to his silent musings, the wind outside began to pick up. Alex knew that his own adventures awaited him beyond the confines of his beloved bookshop, and he embraced the wanderlust moments that always tugged at his soul.

But for now, he was content with the gentle shuffling of books, the scent of coffee, and the soft murmur of customers lost in their own selections.

With a wistful smile Alex rose to greet the next bustling crowd pouring in from the bitter cold. Pondering would have to wait.

[lower-east-side]

first line game 🖋

Rules: List the first lines of your last 20 stories (if you have less than 20, just list them all!). See if there are any patterns. Choose your favorite opening line. Then tag 10 of your favorite authors!

Thank you for the tag @glittering-git!!! Going back 20 fics takes me to April of 2018. I think the only pattern is that my first lines tend to be pretty short. There is very little punctuation other than commas and periods. Almost all refer to a person, either describing or them doing something. Yet only one begins with dialogue (the single Devilman fic, and incidentally the nearly-complete sequel also begins with dialogue.) Over time, I think I show improvement! I’m not sure how representative of my writing this is, however, as I’m more concerned with an opening paragraph rather than lines. 

All of these are Drarry, complete, and rated E unless otherwise noted.

1. You’ll Love (To Let Go) -- It was the noise that woke Harry up.

2. King's Crossing (WIP) -- All the trees were bending down to hold him in their arms.

3. New Chevrolet In Flames (Devilman, M, Ryo/Akira) -- “Not again,” Akira groans as Ryo pulls up to the curb.

4. The Company of The Rose -- Brunch, according to Pansy, was the most important meal of the day.

5. Let's Kiss and Make Up -- Washing up just isn't the same without him.

6. Table Ten -- Every Thursday night was Open Mic Night at the cafe.

7. don’t say you love me, that’s extortion -- Harry is only allowed to say it when Draco is asleep.

8. Cryptography -- With a whir and a snap, the sides of the cube fell into place, and a warm glow filled the room.

9. Harriet Evans and the Happily Ever After (G, Ronmione with potential Drarry) -- It was bedtime in the Granger-Weasley household, and there was a change to the routine.

10. More Than Friends (G) --The door to the compartment slid open, and Ginny slipped inside.

11. Turncoat -- (G) When the smoke had cleared and the Horcrux dissolved, Harry, Ron and Hermione stood shell-shocked outside the Room of Requirement.

12. Taphonomy (T, Lucius/Narcissa) -- She’s holding another person in her body, and yet she’s never felt more alone.

13. To Keep the Heart’s Action -- Vampires are disgusting.

14. Variation -- The Malfoy Heir lives in Malfoy Manor.

15. House Cup Blues -- In front of the hourglasses that displayed House Points, two students stopped — or rather, one student stopped and the other ran into them.

16. all the good that won't come out (T, Daphne/Pansy, background Drastoria) -- The bookshop is Daphne’s refuge from the world.

17. In this world (we’re just beginning) (T) -- It’s not like Harry hasn’t seen the latest Muggle fashions.

18. Does Your Heart Beat Slower (M, Dransy) -- Pansy has never seen the Manor looking so gloomy.

19. Really Good, Indeed -- Sometimes, Harry and Draco still liked to fight.

20. Electric Demons in Love -- It had to be Dark Magic.

As to picking a favorite... hmm. I like the ones that make you guess a little bit, like #1 (what noise?) or #7 (allowed to say what?)  Overall, though, I’ll have to go with 12. It’s very sharp. What do you guys think?

This has illuminated how much I don’t like the opening line of my Big Bang, and that I really need to make it punchier. That’s what editing is for!

I never tag a lot of people on these (ten whole tags? hahaha social anxiety says no) and this is a lot of work so feel free to ignore, but I’d love to see first lines from @phenomenalasterisk @sunflower-swan @candybarrnerd 

[aces-and-kings]

Is Alex’s bookshop a place you can visit in-game? It just sounds so cozy, I’d love to see it.

Yep! It's actually Thor's apartment in game. You can find it at Foundation - Empyreum - 4th Ward - Wing 1 - Room #48. I plan to hold a book event soon. I had set up one before but rl got in the way.

[aces-and-kings]

The Hourglass Grand Re-Opening Event

You're cordially invited to join us at the Grand Re-Opening of The Hourglass, now under the ownership of Alexander Hawthorne! We're thrilled to welcome you this Thursday CST to our beloved bookstore in the brume of Ishgard.

Step inside and be captivated by our extensive collection of new tomes and texts. From literary classics to contemporary masterpieces, there's something for every reader's taste. Take your time to browse and discover literary treasures that will transport you to realms unknown.

But it doesn't stop there! Indulge your taste buds with our delectable offerings. Treat yourself to a mouthwatering deli sandwich, a delightful dessert that will satisfy your sweet cravings, or perhaps a steaming cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of wine to enhance your visit.

At The Hourglass, we believe in the power of inclusivity and hospitality. No matter your background or where you come from, all are welcome within our cozy haven. We embrace diversity and foster a safe space for everyone.

--

This Grand Re-Opening is a casual event where you can fully immerse yourself in roleplay or simply treat it like any other shop visit. Understand that Alexander may be occupied in roleplay at times, so feel free to interact with an unseen friendly NPC at the counter, who will be delighted to assist your character.

Remember, at The Hourglass, time stands still as you get lost in the magic of books!

THIS THURSDAY 07 - 14 - 23 | 6-8pm CST!

MATEUS | EMPYREUM | WARD 4 | INGLESIDE WING 1 | ROOM#48

Alex's studio too, and the alcove he rents out for those weary travelers in need of reprieve.

[aces-and-kings]

Amidst the towering shelves of The Hourglass, a sanctuary of books taken over by Alexander ever since the demise of the former owner, Semex Drogon, Thor stood lost in a realm of thought. His eyes wandered over the dusty tomes, searching for the words that eluded him. Alex, approached him with a mixture of curiosity and concern etched upon his face.

"Thor, my friend, what weighs upon your heart? I can see the shadows of sorrow playing across your countenance."

Thor shifted his gaze to meet Alex's eyes, a hint of sadness lingering in his own.

"Aye, there's a request Ah must make o' ye. A've always been rubbish wit' words, an' now Ah must write a letter ta bid farewell."

Alex's eyes softened, recognizing the weight of Thor's emotions.

"In this haven of tales, we shall find solace through the written word. Tell me, who is the recipient of this letter, the one to whom you bid adieu?"

"Viper, a soul intertwined wit' mah own. A've caused him pain, an' now Ah must find a way ta set him free. Tha words evade me, refusin' ta be captured, an'd Ah'm left wit' a heavy heart."

Offering a gentle smile Alex could tell how difficult it was for the brooding pirate to ask for help and he was nothing if not considerate of that in proceeding. "Within the realm of ink and parchment, we shall craft a farewell imbued with profound emotion. Find respite here, dear Thor, and let us shape the words that will grant solace and release."

Thor exhaled a somber breath, following Alex's lead as they sought a table in a quiet corner of The Hourglass. Together, they delved into the depths of Thor's sorrow, selecting phrases that bore the weight of his goodbye and the essence of his lingering longing.

"Lad, your way wit' words is a balm ta mah troubled soul. Ye've taken tha fragments o' mah thoughts an' woven them inta somethin' achingly beautiful. Ah cannot express mah gratitude enough."

Alex smiled brightly, adjusting his glasses, "And you say you lack a way with words! Pfft. There is no need for gratitude, dear Thor. It is an honor to aid you in this. I owe you anyway, after you and your organization helped me obtain this shop. It's everything I'd ever hoped for."

"T'was no trouble at all, lad."

Alex stood, taking the letter with him and returned behind the counter where he signed, folded, and wax sealed it. It was passed over to Thor as he made way to the exit. "Safe travels, my friend."

With a mixture of sadness and newfound clarity, Thor expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Alex for their invaluable assistance. Leaving The Hourglass, he carried the weight of his words, prepared to bid farewell to Viper with a letter that would release them both from the chains of their shared past. As he walked away, Alex watched, a tender smile gracing his lips, knowing that he had played a part in the bittersweet tale of letting go and finding healing in the power of words.

[aces-and-kings]

How about Stefan and Alexander with coffee and books? :D

Every Friday, like clockwork, Stefan found himself standing outside The Hourglass, Alexander's quaint bookshop nestled in the bustling brume sector of Ishgard. The familiar scent of old parchment and freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air as he pushed open the creaky wooden door and stepped inside.

The tinkling of a bell announced his arrival, and Alexander looked up from behind the counter. "Ah, Stefan! Good to see you again," he greeted, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. "The usual, I presume?"

Stefan nodded with a grin. "And surprise me with a new book this time too, hm?"

As Alexander prepared Stefan's black coffee just the way he liked it, he glanced at the stacks of books lining the shelves. His keen detective instincts always led him to choose something he thought his regulars would appreciate. Today, he settled on a forgotten tome about ancient ruins and lost civilizations—a subject that never failed to ignite Stefan's curiosity.

"I have something I think you'll find fascinating," Alexander said, placing the steaming cup of coffee on the counter. "It's a book about ancient ruins and the untold stories they hold. I thought it might capture your adventurous spirit."

Stefan's eyes sparkled with anticipation as he reached for the book. "Thank you, my friend. You always manage to find the most intriguing reads."

Alexander chuckled. "It's all part of the job. I love helping people find just what suits their particular tastes." He paused for a moment before adding, "Speaking of taste, I've prepared some fresh baked goods for you to take to P’sahji’to. I hope he enjoys them."

Stefan's expression softened. "He adores your baked goods, especially the pastries. You have a way with desserts just as much as you have a way with books."

The two men chatted about the latest literary discoveries, sharing stories and recommendations, while savoring the aroma of coffee that filled the air. It was a ritual they both cherished, a sanctuary of words and friendship amidst the bustling city.

After a while, Stefan reluctantly stood up, feeling the weight of time urging him to leave. "I must get going, my friend. P’sahji’to is eagerly awaiting my return. Same time next week though?"

Alexander smiled, his eyes twinkling. "I'll be here, ready with a new adventure and a fresh pot of coffee. Safe travels."

With a nod of gratitude, Stefan bid farewell to his friend and left The Hourglass, clutching the precious book in one hand and the basket of desserts in the other. As he strolled through the brume, the echoes of his footsteps mingled with the whispers of stories yet to be told.

@cadrenebula, thank you. I enjoy the idea of Alex having regulars at the shop.

[aces-and-kings]

🏋️ - do they own a secret place for their most prized possessions?

Answering for Alex because he's my only not homeless character. Behind the counters in The Hourglass Bookshop (and cafe) there's a murphy door built into the shelves. When you open it you find the entrance to his studio apartment, which just happens to make for a really well hidden safe house for his friends as well. So inside this apartment within the shop Alex has a chest built into his bed. You access it by lifting the mattress, but otherwise it just looks like any other bed frame. He keeps a few very valuable books in there, as well as some sentimental mementos. The rest of my characters might keep things on their person or in a satchel, bag or nightstand, but no one else currently has a "home", much less a place to keep important things. In fact, the majority don't put much stock in possessions at all. It tends not to vibe well with the wayward traveling types I guess? Think the closest that exists is Red's old distillery which might have a few special items laying around collecting dust.

Thanks for asking @lookbluesoup!

[lower-east-side]

Tagged by @snortinglaughter​ (like quite a while ago I’m sorry) for this little look back (that makes me feel unproductive compared to last year, but hey, quality over quantity, right?)

Rules: Post the first lines of your last 10 fics, and tag 10 people. 

I left out drabbles. All are H/D except Taphonomy (Lucius/Narcissa) and all the good that won’t come out (Daphne/Pansy). I feel like I tend toward shorter lines? Interesting to see them here like this!

All the trees were bending down to hold him in their arms. - King's Crossing

Every Thursday night was Open Mic Night at the cafe. - Table Ten

Harry is only allowed to say it when Draco is asleep. - don't say you love me, that's extortion

With a whir and a snap, the sides of the cube fell into place, and a warm glow filled the room. - Cryptography

It was bedtime in the Granger-Weasley household, and there was a change to the routine. - Harriet Evans and the Happily Ever After

She’s holding another person in her body, and yet she’s never felt more alone. - Taphonomy

Vampires are disgusting. - To Keep The Heart's Action

The Malfoy Heir lives in Malfoy Manor.  - Variation

In front of the hourglasses that displayed House Points, two students stopped — or rather, one student stopped and the other ran into them. - House Cup Blues

The bookshop is Daphne’s refuge from the world. - all the good that won’t come out

I’m not tagging anyone because this sat in my drafts for soooo long but if you want to play please do and tag me back so I can read!