#twelfth concubine

[meowwrites]

This letter adorned my presence the moment I step foot in my quarters.

“Your Imperial Highness, thank you for coming to visit the palace. I understand you must be very busy, but I believe all the concubines appreciated your presence, they were overjoyed with your arrival just as I was.

I dearly apologize for falling ill, making your presence feel entirely somber. The company is much appreciated, and I was told I should be able to walk on my own in the coming weeks. I would like to ask you not to worry, I will be fine even despite me being dissonant.

I must admit to you, my dear, that the reason for my behavior is not because I have fallen ill. In fact, I fear it may be the opposite, that the reason I am ill is because of my behavior.

I am not sure if you remember this, but when I first came to your quarters after you ordained me as your concubine, you told me that as I was as beautiful as the water lilies that sprouted in your childhood river. I keep that regard close to my chest. And if you may have noticed, I have a lot of water lilies surrounding my area of the palace.

Why do I care to remind you of this? Well, it’s because when my ladies-in-waiting heard of this, they took care to spread the idea that you consider me as ‘the most beautiful concubine’, which I feel my cheeks burn when I recall such a thing.

And, I believe that’s the root of my problem, my dear. You consider me a beautiful woman, and so does everyone in the palace. But, I do not particularly enjoy the notion. It quite upsets me. It is not as if I do not enjoy it when it comes from you, no, I love everything that comes from you. It is… difficult to explain.

There was a time in life where I snuck out of my home, and I was dressed up as a commoner man to avoid drawing attention. That, was one of the happiest days in my life, or I suppose I should say week. I spent a whole week in town before I was dragged back by my ear by my mother. People held me in high regard even if I wasn’t dressed as I normally am. They revered me, I was likable. I felt likable.

I want you to perceive me as likable, as well. I want my servants to perceive me as someone to hold in high regard, not simply because I am just your concubine, but because I am… I don’t know the word. Apologies. This may not make any sense.

I sound deranged. You adore me for being your most gorgeous woman; and yet I don’t want such a thing. I would adore to remain your concubine, however these feelings are not giving me the will to go on as such. I despise how I look every single day I walk this earth knowing that there was only one day I felt truly comfortable in my own skin.

Please forgive me for feeling this way. I do not know what is wrong with me. I adore being your concubine, being your woman. But the idea of remaining like this makes me sick. I feel guilty for burdening you with my problems, but I am unsure how else to proceed.

I fear I might die if I don’t admit this now.

You are one of the most kind, caring, and forgiving men I have ever met, and the nights I spend with you are one I cannot forget ever. You make me feel safe, and that is why I tell you this, even if it may risk my position as you beloved.

I am sure it is late by the time you read this, so do get some rest tonight. I will see you another day, whenever you choose to visit.

Goodnight, my dear.”

[sunderwight]

Moshang AU where Airplane transmigrates into a demon NPC from one of the fanservice clans he created, rather than into Shang Qinghua.

So basically, there was a point in time where a lot of PIDW chapters were just Luo Binghe running around propelled by political plots and rebellions from the demon kingdoms, and most of that actually just ended up being Luo Binghe collecting wives with cute animal ears and tails and various abilities that Airplane used all of once and then completely forgot about. They covered the usual bases of the sexy cat girls, sexy fox girls, sexy bunny girls, sexy bird girls with wings, etc, before moving into more, erm, niche animal hybrid demon territory.

Which is all a roundabout way of explaining Cute Hamster Boy Shang Qinghua in his faithful-to-canon clan of Hamster Demons, whose primary skills include cute squeaking noises and digging abilities.

In the process of making his braindead written-in-a-panic-at-3-am "world building" on this front actually function in a real version of the setting, there has got to be a way for the otherwise-unremarkable fanservice demon tribes to actually survive the incredibly hostile environment which Airplane otherwise described, though. Like yeah sure when you're writing a book you can just say in one breath that the demon realms are incredibly brutal and cutthroat, and then in the next that this tribe of bunny girls with no visible skills at self-defense has existed here for thousands of years, but if you actually tried to set that up in some kind of a simulation the bunny girls wouldn't last one year, let alone one thousand.

In that case of Airplane's hamster tribe, their digging skills are so supernaturally prodigious that they are able to construct massive underground fortifications in otherwise hostile terrain. But that still doesn't solve all of their problems, because they still need to acquire food, and for that they mostly do have to go up to the surface. Some of their weakness is mitigated by sheer numbers -- they have a lot of kids to offset the high mortality rate. However, to further increase the survival rates, the hamster demons also try and make contracts with some of the local liege lords or ruling clans whenever they expand into a new territory. In exchange for protection, they send some of their extraneous family members out as servants, to either cement alliances through marriage (that high fertility is helpful and was indeed the crux of Wife #whatever's acquisition in canon) or to work as diggers or even high-level architects.

As the like, twelfth son of the Hamster Demon chieftain, this is Airplane's fate. On the one hand he's highly positioned enough to get an education, and his plot knowledge helps a lot. On the other hand, he's not high enough in the hierarchy to be kept around, so it's either go work for some other clan or else risk his neck doing missions on the hostile and deadly surface. Neither seems great, but Airplane would rather try his luck as a sycophant than a warrior.

Luckily (or unluckily, depending on his mood when he thinks about it) when Airplane reaches sixteen years of age, it's around the same time that the Hamster clan's tunnels have expanded towards the Northern Desert. Airplane ends up being part of the "hiii~ pleasedon'tkillus let's be friends~" tribute to Mobei Jun's father.

Mobei Jun's father tosses him to Mobei Jun, so Airplane dutifully latches onto him in order to avoid being eaten by any of the other retainers. Airplane has been educated in various subterranean building skills and is under the impression that he's been given to MBJ in order to build him his own palace or something?

Everyone else assumes that the Hamster demon is a concubine.

Mobei Jun also thinks that's what he's been given, but he's too busy bristling in teenage offense at being given a concubine by his father to actually consider taking Airplane to bed. So when Airplane starts doing other things for him, he just sort of bemusedly lets it happen.

Gradually it becomes apparent that Airplane himself isn't interested in being a concubine. No. Clearly, this Hamster is gunning for future empress of the Northern Desert! How else would one explain all the lengths he's going to not only to win Mobei Jun's favor, but to secure his position and ensure his future rule? The system also wants Airplane to ensure the Abyss plot arc happens in the future, too, which means Airplane helps Mobei Jun win and instigate conflicts against the righteous cultivation sects too.

Obviously, Airplane wants power. Mobei Jun knows that if he gets an heir off of Airplane that will be that, the wily minx will use any children to secure his position, and MBJ is not convinced he could control himself well enough to prevent that sort of eventually. Airplane is fiendishly attractive, and he clearly knows it, and Mobei Jun is not sure if he wants to accept what increasingly seems to be the inevitable. He won't be a ladder for someone else's ambitions! But... as long as Airplane remains loyal to him, he will consider it. Even if Airplane never harbors any true affection for him, and simply considers him a means to an end. If, by the time he ascends the Hamster has not betrayed him or tried to elevate himself by flipping over this uncle's side, or seduced any of his other relatives or any of the highly-placed lords all salivating to steal MBJ's would-be empress, then Mobei Jun will grant his wish and make him the second most powerful demon in the North.

Airplane, meanwhile, just wants a snack and a nap. Maybe if he builds a secure enough fortress and amasses enough of an intelligence network and hoards a few advantages for himself, and figures out how to stop pissing off MBJ, he'll survive long enough to retire. Somehow.

[screeching-bunny]

hi, can you be part two of yandere concubine harem

Yandere! Concubine Harem pt.2

Warnings: Obsessive Behavior, Yandere Thoughts, Bad Writing, Stalking, Possessive Behavior, Reader is Referred as ‘You’

Pt.1

God fucking damnit it happened again. Currently, you were standing in front of your father as he was lecturing you. The reason for this scolding? Well, it was due to the fact that yet another one of your concubines had passed away. You wanted nothing more than to just go to bed and take a fat nap right now. Like how was this even remotely your fault? Everyone knows that once someone joins your harem there’s like a seventy percent chance of them dying. Yet they still do it! Why were you being blamed for their stupidity?

“I can’t fucking believe you!!! How could you let another one of your concubines die!?!? How on Earth are we supposed to explain this to the family!?!?”

“I honestly don’t understand why you're putting so much of the blame on me. Everyone literally knows the dangers of entering this place. This is the twelfth concubine to die. Can anyone really be surprised? Most people already know the fatalities, yet they still send their children here in hopes of being married to me. If they're shocked, that's on them.”

“What– I honestly can’t deal with you right now. Just go away. I can already feel my blood pressure rise…”

Man what a drag. You’re gonna have to start planning another funeral again. What did she even die from anyways? Probably just by some poison, that seems to be what’s popular nowadays. You started to make your way towards your bedroom so that you could finally relax. When you were by your window outside you noticed that a figure was already in your room. Any normal person would see this and start freaking out but you had a suspicion that you knew who this was. Taking a closer look, your suspicions were deemed correct when you got a clear view of one of your male concubines there. Not only that but they were digging through your dirty laundry. Man this is seriously gross and did they just smell your underwear!!! Man he really needed to touch some grass. Yeah… maybe it wasn’t the best idea to bedroom anyways. Whatever, to the hot springs it is!

With that you started to call a maid over and order her to bring all your bath supplies. The hot springs were in a secluded part of the palace so hopefully no one was around there. With a quick walk you finally reached the area and you patiently waited for the maid to come over and hand you your things.

“Sorry for making you wait, your highness here are all your things. I’ll make sure to tell everyone not to come here so as to not bother you. Enjoy yourself and let me know if you need anything.”

“Thank you, I will.”

Stepping into the waters, you start to feel your body relax as that hot water begins to hit your body. You began to just sink yourself into it. You love how calming and peaceful this place was. This was soon interrupted when you saw the waters begin to ripple with movement. Rolling your eyes a bit you then look up at a figure. Low and behold it was another concubine. This time however, you remembered his name. You think his name was Atlas… probably but you were certain that he was the prince of a southern boarding nation.

“Your highness, what a coincidence running into you like this. Mind if I have the honors of joining you?” he said with a large smile.

Coincidence my ass but nevertheless you gave him a small nod. His face immediately began to light up as he made his way towards your side. He had the eagerness of a puppy and the speed of a cheetah.

“Your highness, let me rub your back for you!”

He began to rub his hands all over your body eager to not leave one spot untouched. You were honestly so dumbfounded by him but just let him do his thing. Something else that you noticed while he was doing all of this was the fact that he was packing! It took you all your willpower to not look down and just stare at it. You couldn’t help but think and ask yourself in your mind, “was it heavy?” Man you really need to get out of here before your mind turns into the gutter. You were seriously turning into one of your perverted concubines. Before you could say anything and make an excuse to leave he beat you to it.

“When we’re finished, let's go to my side of the palace where we can relax with each other.”

Feeling that you could use a change in scenery you agreed and began to get dressed. As the two of you made your way towards his courtyard you couldn’t help but notice how beautiful it was. The place was filled with flowers and many butterflies roamed the area. The both of you sat near a nearby bench and started to make conversation.

“I’m sorry for the lack of entertainment. If I had known that I would be meeting you I would have set something up. I do have some tea that I made this morning and it would be lovely if you could try it!”

With your hum of his approval he quickly made his way inside to go and fetch it. Something that you’ll never understand about your concubines is their constant need for approval from you. You could not imagine why one would be so desperate for praise from someone else. The thought of yourself being like that almost made you laugh. Your thoughts were quickly broken when you heard the sound of someone's footsteps.

“I’m back I hope I didn’t keep you waiting for long! Let me pour the tea for you!”

He swiftly grabbed the teapot and poured it into a teacup for you. Then presented you with some biscuits.

“I made this all for you! They probably don’t taste as good as they did this morning but they're still delicious!”

Taking the sip of the tea you noticed that it had a pleasant sugary taste to it. The cookies were also quite delicious. When you finished your snack the two of you continued to make small talk until you started to feel your vision begin to get blurry. You noticed that your body became hard to move and sluggish. God dammit you knew better than to accept food from anybody. Now look at where it got you!

“My love, it seems like the tea is starting to kick in but don’t worry I’ll make sure to take care of you.” he said with a lovesick expression.

[candysugarush]

𝐒𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬: part 2

"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑷𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒐𝒓 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒏-𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒆𝒔"

✧══════•❁❀❁•══════✧

Xu Minghao

Character : The eighth princess

Story : The second born prince of the concubine of the king. Minghao despite his words and behavior, fully enjoy spending time with his brothers even if they tend to get on his nerves. Which is why he meditate to control his emotions and tend to lean toward more calm activities and artistic ones. Dancing is a way for him to let out everything he can't put in words. Whether it is the good, the bad, or just the passion. And oh, how much passion do you inspire him! His emotions going as brazen as a wildfire pulling him in thousands waltz.

Won't you take his hand and join him? If you refuse him, his temper might get out of control and burn you.

Kim Mingyu

Character : The ninth princess

Story : The charming and sweet giant prince. Despite his looks, Mingyu doesn't have traditional princely interest, finding cooking and baking in the kitchen more interesting than sparing. Even if his appearance and muscles would suggest the contrary. Dancing might be the only moment he willingly moves as he sees more as an art than a sport. All of this just adds into his princely charm that makes most of the kingdom's maiden swoon. But you, you saw behind this and genuinely went to learn about him and his interest. He is so grateful for that, you're the only one who did such effort.

This deserves a gift, a special treat he made just for you... Don't mind the tangy taste and just eat it all, don't be ungrateful now.

Lee Seokmin

Character : The tenth princess

Story : The sunshine and laughing prince. There isn't a day in the castle without hearing the wonderful laugh of the tenth prince. He is always following along his brothers, eager for whatever adventure or mess they get into. But he is just following, he also know how to tale the lead and demonstrate remarkable skills such as acting or quick thinking to get out of whatever mess. Even when it involves dancing, and singing. Nobody can stop him once he starts. And you, you are no exception, although he would pause just long enough to pull you against him in a waltz.

Isn't this wonderful? Everyday would be full of joy and laughter if you remained by his side. Now won't you consider it? He won't let go until you say yes.

Boo Seungkwan

Character : The eleventh princess

Story : The elegant, eccentric and chic prince who's voice resonate through the castle with gasps, huff, and scoffs. He is the oldest of the triplets and share a deep relationship with the second twin and a rivalry with the youngest. Of course he has a good relation with the rest of his brothers, especially when it comes down to him asking for attention or anything. Dancing is one of the most refined art he likes in partake in, and you my dear is the lucky one who gets to share this with him.

What a privilege, don't get your hopes up. It's just because you provided him with dancing shoes... But that doesn't mean he doesn't want you here! At least stay to watch him try them.

Chwe Hansol

Character : The twelfth princess

Story : The nonchalant and blank faced prince who is laid-back and doesn't bother himself with useless matters. He is the second born triplets and has a good relation with all his brothers, he isn't playing favorite (even if eleven want him to). Although he has a tendency to get distracted and let his twin drag him around, Hansol knows how to put his focus when it matters. Such as dancing, probably the most energetic his brothers had ever seen him. And also when it comes to you. Sure he is chill and laid-back, but that doesn't mean he will let people walk over him.

He isn't a doormat and his talent for swordmanship speak for itself. If anyone bothers you, just tell him. He will make sure they don't ever again try such silly stunts.

Lee Chan

Character : The thirteenth princess

Story : The youngest prince who's treated like a child and babied by his older brothers. He is the youngest of the triplets and the runt of the litter. Despite being teased by his brothers all the time and the weird rivalry with his oldest twin, Chan know how to stand on his own. And he is a man of many talents to back up his words. And that includes dancing, as all his brothers were into it and he couldn't stand the thought of being left out. So he tries his best to be an excellent dancer. And good dancing shoes are quite the must for that. That's where you come in.

He is smitten and wants you, but seeing how all his brothers are also vying your attention sends a wave of jealousy and rage through him. They cannot have you, that's the only desire he won't concede. So stop looking at them and only focus on him.

✧══════•❁❀❁•══════✧

Who will be your dancing partner?

Taglist: @loumin908

[sesskagarchive]

From the Archives: June 2024

banner by @jafndaegur

Aubrey Simone

AO3 | Dokuga | FFnet

Recommended by @alliasphyxiated, for:

"I’m recommending because I was always checking for updates on a specific fic. However, I feel that Aubrey’s writing was so creative and interesting to read in all of her fics. She’s one of many great authors in the fandom, and I wish she was still active. I think about her stories very often."

Recommended reading:

The Twelfth Concubine Rated MA. From 2011-2015. Incomplete Chapter Fic. Summary: She had only wanted to be accepted, and he had only wanted a little excitement, but maybe, just maybe, the twelfth would be the last. Threesome Edition

"he Twelfth Concubine (I prefer the threesome edition, but she did have one with just SK); this fic was never completed which is so sad because I was INVESTED. Updates were always kind of sporadic and spread out, but whenever I saw an update email for this fic I would runnnn to read it. I’ve reread this many times, this was a big SK staple for me, and I think about it often."

Recommend a creator who's no longer active in the SessKag fandom for this monthly spotlight HERE!

[princejackal]

The RO List

This is a long time coming.

This is a list of confirmed ROs in the game. So far I’ve focused on love interests who your MC will meet early on in the game. Love interests from other kingdoms like Assyria, Babylon and one of the Aramean states have yet to be included.

In the game, marriage is about political gain. So your MC is suppose to marry for an alliance and not because they simply love the other person. While most love interests can be romanced by both male and female MCs, a marriage will only be recognised between heterosexual couples. But gay couples can have a private ceremony to affirm their relationship.

DISCLAIMER! Your MC can choose not to marry and be single. They can choose to monogamous to one person. Or they can decide to have numerous nameless concubines to bear children for them. It’s really up to you.

Now on to the list.

The Companions:

The first group of ROs are your three companions you’ll meet shortly after getting out of prison.

Name: Najim/Najima [M/F]

Race: Ghoul

Magic Type: Blood Manipulation, Shapeshifting

Description: Your friendly neighbourhood ghoul. N is the one who helps you out after you escape from prison. He/She sees your potential and is willing to go the extra mile for you. N doesn’t mind cracking a few skulls or eggs in order to secure back your throne. But don’t expect them to open up to you in the beginning. N has a past that they’d like to keep hidden.

Political Power: N doesn’t have a family to help you. In fact, N would be reluctant to marry your MC because it would cause a scandal. Even though N is a jinn, they are a wrong type of jinn. Ghouls are not seen in the best of light in the kingdom. Their shapeshifting ability has given them a bad reputation because shapeshifting is mostly used for espionage and assassination jobs.

Name: Leila [F]

Race: Qarin

Magic: Earth Manipulation

Description: Leila comes from a merchant family. But times have been hard for her family as trade routes have been monopolised in the kingdom and only those politically connected to the elites get good trade routes.

Leila is an excellent negotiator and can sell anything to anyone. Like any good merchant she has detractors who accuse her of being a charlatan and swindler who sells fake jewelry at highly inflated prices. But she never let’s criticism get in her way of securing the bag.

Political Power: Leila has contacts around the kingdom. Even though her family isn’t super rich, their wealthy enough and well-connected enough to assist you in reclaiming your throne. They won’t help you out for free but they expect the MC to pay them back.

Name: Zaki [M]

Race: Marid

Magic: Water Manipulation

Description: Zaki is currently a fisherman. He comes from a family of mercenaries. He spent years fighting for others in foreign lands. But he got sick and tired of the bloodshed. After the death of his younger brother, he decided to return to Jinnestan and live a simple life. But his simple life will become complicated when he helps the MC out and gets embroiled in the conflict between the MC and the vizier.

Political Power: Zaki comes from a good family. His family knows how to fight and can help the MC out in a war situation. The tribe Zaki comes from is known for their bravery. That’s why in the kingdom they’re hired to protect caravan routes from bandits.

The Betrothed:

You’ll first meet these two ROs during your twelfth birthday party. Your father wants to solidify your right to the throne. And has decided a good betrothal will put you in a good position.

The player is not forced to marry the person they’re betrothed to. After the incident that occurred in MC’s birthday party, the player is free to choose whoever they feel will secure them the throne.

Name: Raita [F]

Race: [Depends on MC’s Race Choice]

Magic: [Depends on MC’s First Elemental Power]

Description: Raita is your cousin from your father’s side. She’s known to be reserved and mostly keeps to herself. Raita is an excellent gardener and spends her free time tending to the plants in the palace. Surprisingly, your uncle finds Raita to be so non-threatening that she can go in and out of the royal palace without first seeking permission . But even though she’s quiet, she’s aware of her precarious position in court and tries hard to not arouse attention to herself. Raita however makes sure to keep notes on what goes on in the palace.

Political Power: Raita comes from the MC’s family tribe but is from a different clan than the MC. She’s your second cousin to be specific. A marriage with her would solidify your family’s support of you and de-legitimise the vizier.

Name: Qaus [M] (*NB: I’ve yet to change his name currently in demo)

Race: Half-Jinn, Half-Nephilim

Magic: Levitation

Description: Qaus is the second eldest son of the king of Edom. He believes he’s better than his brother and therefore should rule Edom. But his father has other plans. So most of the time his bored and spends reading scrolls from scholars. He longs for adventure and a chance to prove himself to his father.

Political Power: Qaus is a prince. A marriage with him would create an alliance between two kingdoms. Such an alliance would be beneficial for the MC. But it also poses a risk as Edom frequently comes into conflict with Israel and could drag Jinnestan into it if the MC is not careful.

High Risk, High Reward:

So this marriage would be very controversial and has many pitfalls for the MC. But if MC plays their cards right, you can end up on top. So here are two siblings from the second powerful tribe in the kingdom.

Name: Suhail [M]

Race: Hinn

Magic: Wind Manipulation

Description: Suhail is known to be carefree. He loves going out and partying hard. Coming from a very rich and powerful family, he organises a party every week in his house. Most people don’t take him seriously. He’s seen as a goofball, a guy who likes cracking jokes at inappropriate times. And Suhail prefers having people think he’s not a serious threat.

Political Power: Suhail belongs to the second most powerful tribe in the kingdom. During the war of unification, Suhail’s tribe opposed MC’s father and allied themselves with other tribes who didn’t want Arabia to be united. But at the final battle against your father, Suhail’s tribe switched sides in the middle of fighting. They betrayed their allies and launched a surprise attack from the rear against their former allies.

This would hand a total victory to your father. And MC’s father decided to reward Suhail’s tribe for switching sides. Over time, the tribe became more powerful and richer. They’re pretty much distrusted by most people in the kingdom for their dishonorable act. But a marriage with them will give you a powerful ally. So powerful that they could consume the MC in their web if the player is not careful.

Name: Samar [F]

Race: Hinn

Magic: Wind Manipulation

Description: Unlike her brother, Suhail, who enjoys partying all the time, Samar tries to get people to take her seriously. She spends her free time writing and publishing poems and stories. She organises poetry competitions at her home and provides financial support for young artists in the capital. Samar uses most of her income for charitable ventures like building orphanages and giving aid to poor widows.

She’s trying hard to repair her family reputation the best she can. But she can be vindictive. She’ll use her power and influence to crush anyone who mocks or speaks ill of her family.

Political Power: Again just like her brother, she belongs to a powerful tribe. A tribe that could help MC instead of supporting the vizier.

And that's it for now. The re-write is chugging along well

[horsesarecreatures]

“Tomoe Gozen (巴 御前) (1157–1247); was a late twelfth-century female samurai warrior known for her bravery and strength. She is believed to have fought in and survived the Genpei War. She was also the concubine of Minamoto no Yoshinaka. According to one historical account, Tomoe was beautiful, with white skin, long hair, and charming features. She was also a remarkably strong archer, and as a swordswoman, she was a warrior worth a thousand, ready to confront a demon or a god, mounted or on foot. She handled unbroken horses with superb skill; she rode unscathed down perilous descents. Whenever a battle was imminent, Yoshinaka sent her out as his first captain, equipped with strong armour, an oversized sword, and a mighty bow; and she performed more deeds of valour than any of his other warriors (The Tale of the Heike)” - Kyoto and Nara Dream Trips

[blueiscoool]

AN EGYPTIAN TERRACOTTA FEMALE FIGURE

MIDDLE KINGDOM, 12TH DYNASTY, CIRCA 1976-1793 B.C.

61/4 in. (15.9 cm.) high.

In death, as in life, the Egyptian nobleman sought to share his time with female companions. In the Twelfth Dynasty these so-called "concubine" figures took the form of stylised, attractive shapely women and were formed of wood, ivory, faience and clay. They are now understood to represent a more general idea of female fertility and sexuality, potent powers which could imbue the deceased with new life.

Many display brightly patterned clothing, jewelry and tattoos. The back of the head in this example is perforated for the insertion of hair, with dots and knobs along her back and buttocks indicating jewellery and tattoos.

[kyotodreamtrips]

I posted 481 times in 2022

That's 285 more posts than 2021!

481 posts created (100%)

0 posts reblogged (0%)

I tagged 460 of my posts in 2022

Only 4% of my posts had no tags

#japan - 435 posts

#kyoto - 267 posts

#landscape - 160 posts

#photography - 128 posts

#buddhism - 109 posts

#matsuri - 106 posts

#autumn - 93 posts

#travel - 78 posts

#nature - 77 posts

#shinto - 71 posts

Longest Tag: 109 characters

#shikoku 四国 kagawa prefecture 香川県 japan cherry blossoms 桜 sakura hanami 花見 matsuri landscape toryo park 県立桃陵公園

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

Sacred "White Heron Dance" (白鷺の舞) at Yasaka Shrine during Gion Matsuri at Yasaka shrine in Kyoto.

142 notes - Posted July 2, 2022

#4

Although this castle is more know for its cherry blossoms, one can find some autumn colours too.

215 notes - Posted November 7, 2022

#3

The entrance to the Okumiya area of the Kifune shrine in Kyoto City-Japan.

243 notes - Posted January 20, 2022

#2

Purple wisteria at Byōdō-in temple, Uji City, Kyoto-Japan.

369 notes - Posted April 22, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

Tomoe Gozen (巴 御前) (1157–1247); was a late twelfth-century female samurai warrior known for her bravery and strength. She is believed to have fought in and survived the Genpei War. She was also the concubine of Minamoto no Yoshinaka. According to one historical account, Tomoe was beautiful, with white skin, long hair, and charming features. She was also a remarkably strong archer, and as a swordswoman, she was a warrior worth a thousand, ready to confront a demon or a god, mounted or on foot. She handled unbroken horses with superb skill; she rode unscathed down perilous descents. Whenever a battle was imminent, Yoshinaka sent her out as his first captain, equipped with strong armour, an oversized sword, and a mighty bow; and she performed more deeds of valour than any of his other warriors (The Tale of the Heike).

555 notes - Posted October 23, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[theblindninja]

Kyoto and Nara Dream Trips Tomoe Gozen (巴 御前) (1157–1247); was a late twelfth-century female samurai warrior known for her bravery and strength. She is believed to have fought in and survived the Genpei War. She was also the concubine of Minamoto no Yoshinaka. According to one historical account, Tomoe was beautiful, with white skin, long hair, and charming features. She was also a remarkably strong archer, and as a swordswoman, she was a warrior worth a thousand, ready to confront a demon or a god, mounted or on foot. She handled unbroken horses with superb skill; she rode unscathed down perilous descents. Whenever a battle was imminent, Yoshinaka sent her out as his first captain, equipped with strong armour, an oversized sword, and a mighty bow; and she performed more deeds of valour than any of his other warriors (The Tale of the Heike).

[meowwrites]

“to the twelfth agate concubine,

(tw for mentions of suicide!)

My lady, I apologize that you must see me this way, for I know that you care for me just as I have you and I, as your sole lady-in-waiting, was one of the few people who would look you in the eye and hold respect for you. I apologize for my definite absence in your life from now on, and I hope you can forgive me.

A year ago today, I understand you attempted to end your own life just as I have now. You were dressed in this exact clothing, your hair put up the same way as mine, and you had written a letter the same way I have. This is no mistake on my part, I am purposely mimicking you.

You, my lady, are full of splendor and delicacy, one in which I am proud to say I have served for as long as I did. I apologize for being so rude to you in the beginning of our relationship, even despite the fact we were both in similar positions. You never deserved such treatment, and I never deserved the high praise you have given me.

My lady, being by your side has fulfilled me, and I cannot bear the thought of you leaving me as you wanted to a year ago. You have a beautiful heart and soul, one that should be praised to the heavens, not to be wasted by hanging rope. You deserve a life you want to live and so much more.

Everything I have done for you up until this point, is done out of love, even now as I leave you.

I was never a religious person, but for you I would be. You are my god, my universe, you are the one thing I hold dearly above all. You are the one I worship, and I hold no regrets other than the fact that you will be alone after my death.

I have never been able to give you your own jewelry nor dresses, for I was never taught how to sew correctly or make fine jewelry, so please consider this parting as a gift rather than a loss. I’m giving you the chance to lead the life you always wanted.

I left my clothes on your bed. I also left my jewelry and my daily routine in writing. I left every letter I have every written to anyone. Please, take my place in this world. I will act as you. The emperor will assume you have died, and will presumably ask you whether or not you would like to keep working in the palace under the pretense you are me.

I understand you like to draw. You have piles of sketchbooks hidden away; you engrave your drawings on your walls and on rice grains, you are extremely talented. It’s as if your hands bring life to everything you touch. I would like you to pursue this passion of yours, to be the woman you have always wanted to be.

This is selfish of me to ask of you, I could imagine you’re in indescribable pain right now, and I once again apologize. I don’t mean to make you feel more pain than you have gone through. Please know, one of us would have definitely gone this way, and I would rather it be me over you.

I made an oath once I become your lady-in-waiting, that I would serve you diligently and without hesitation. And if I could, I want to do so for eternity. To remain by your side forevermore would be my greatest honor.

Please don’t shed tears over me. You’re too pretty to be wasting tears over someone below you. I would rather you hate me than wish for my return.

I love you.

That is selfish of me to say. I know that. I’m unworthy to even speak to you. I’m unworthy to even touch you if it weren’t for the fact I’m your lady-in-waiting. I’m a hypocrite for loving you.

But I’m your hypocrite. You will always be my lady and I will always be by your side even in death.

I love you even in death. There will never be a moment where you are without me.

I live to serve you, and even in death, I will serve you.

I pray that we will meet again, in our next life.

Goodnight, my love. May we meet again, when morning comes.”

[queenshelby]

The Concubine - Part Eight

Pairing: Tommy Shelby x Reader

Warning: Graphic Torture, Blood, Angst, Violence, Loss of Pregnancy, Smut

Words: 2,656

One week has passed since you miscarried and your life had changed quite significantly. You were sharing it with Tommy now and he was very different to Steven. To your surprise, he was gentle and caring and this wasn’t something you were expecting from a man in his position and with his standing.

You knew what he did and what he was involved in. The murders, the killing, the drug trafficking. You weren’t blind and business was always on his mind. In fact, his mind never rested. He couldn’t rest. There was too much to do and he still craved revenge.

Whilst you had never spoken about it again, the beatings and causing you to miscarry, you knew that he wanted to see Steven suffer for what he did to you. But, Steven was nowhere to be found until that very cold Sunday evening where everything changed with a phone call from Arthur.

‘Fucking got em Tom’ Arthur said through the phone and Tommy was quick to put on his jacket and coat, making his way through the door and to his silver Bentley.  

‘Where are you going Tommy?’ you asked surprised as you followed him through the door. He seemed to be in a mad rush.

‘I’ve got work to do Love. Don’t wait up, eh’ Tommy said, turning around briefly to give you a kiss.

‘Tommy, you promised’ you pouted, knowing that tonight was the night your abstinence and hunger for him was to come to end.

‘I will make it up to you, eh?’ Tommy said with a grin before you pulled him in for another kiss.

‘You will?’ you asked, biting your lip seductively. Whilst you were still bruised and hurt, you were desperate for him to take you. You loved being intimate with him.

‘Yes, I will, and you won’t be able to walk straight for fucking days, eh’ Tommy winked before getting into his car, causing you to laugh.

***

When Tommy arrived at the factory building where Arthur and Michael held Steven captive, the anger within him was building and so was his rage.

He knew what Steven had done to you and he knew what he had done to other women, including several working girls at establishments owned by the Shelby family while using an alias.

‘At last, we meet, eh’ Tommy said harshly as he sat down on a chair across from Steven who was bound to a pole with a with rope. A white piece of fabric was tied around his mouth to keep him quiet while he was sweating profusely.

‘It was fucking hard to find you. But now that you are here, your father can go free, get on with business or, more so, start over again because you fucked up, eh’ Tommy said as he removed the white fabric from Steven’s mouth.

‘I haven’t done anything to you. What the hell do you want from me?’ Steven asked, shivering and crying as he did. He was fearful and believed that Tommy was there to kill him.

‘I don’t want anything from scum like you. All I want is for you to pay for your fucking sins, eh’ Tommy growled, pulling Steven up on his shirt as he did.

‘If this is about this whore your brother saved, she fucking deserved it’ Steven then said, unable to hold back his emotion and, just as he did, Tommy pulled off his razor cap and slowly dragged it across Steven’s face, causing him to bleed profusely.

‘Listen to me you little fuck. I have made a deal with your father not to kill you but if you disrespect Y/N again, I will end you in the most painful way possible’ Tommy then said louder as Steven’s screams.

‘She cheated on me and I should have beaten her to death’ Steven growled in anger and pain.

‘He didn’t fucking listen to a word I said’ Tommy observed with a chuckle. ‘Did he fucking listen Arthur?’ he then asked, looking at Arthur.

‘No Tommy. He didn’t listen’ Arthur confirmed.

‘Pull him up, put him onto the table and start with what he did to his fiancée and the whores he visited at our establishments’ Tommy growled, handing one of his men a belt and they were quick to comply with Tommy’s request while Tommy watched.

‘She did fucking cheat on you, didn’t she, eh’ Tommy then said as the tenth stroke hit Steven’s back.

‘Because why would she be with someone like you...’ he went on to say as the twelfth stroke came down, causing Steven to cry in pain.

‘He is enjoying this too fucking much. Hit him harder’ Tommy then instructed before he continued on.

‘Now, I tell you a little secret Steven. The man she cheated on you with was me. Unlike you, I didn’t force her to do anything, treated her with respect and, if it wasn’t for you fucking animal, she would still be carrying my child. You killed my child and you can be grateful that I didn’t know that she was pregnant before she lost the baby, eh. Because if I would have known, you most certainly would die tonight’ Tommy then said, pulling on Steven’s cheek with anger as the 20th stroke hit him.

‘How does it fucking feel, eh? Being treated and abused like this’ Tommy growled when the final stroke came down on Steven’s back and he told his men that this was enough.

‘I am sorry please…please just stop’ Steven pleaded as tears were running down his face.

‘So that you can go back and rape more prostitutes, beat more women or take your anger out on anyone else who is not equal in size to you?’ Tommy asked.

‘I promise, I won’t hurt anyone…please just let me go’ Steven pleaded.

‘No, you won’t. I will make sure of that’ Tommy then said, pulling his face close as the blood from Steven’s cheek-stained Tommy’s clothes.

Then Tommy pulled Steven of the table and, whilst the blood from Steven’s back now also covered Tommy, he forced him to turn around and sit on the chair in the corner.

‘If you come near Y/N, or her family or any of my establishments, I will have you killed and I will also have your father and brothers killed. Do you understand?’ Tommy asked, causing Steven to nod.

‘Good’ he growled before turning around, facing his men.

‘Finish it’ he then ordered before lightening himself a cigarette and handing one of his men a hot piece of metal.

‘This will hurt’ Arthur then said as he followed Tommy to his car and, just as they left the building, they could hear the screams in the distance as Tommy’s men were branding Steven’s skin with the word ‘Rapist’ as a warning for any women who would cross his path.

‘See that the women in our establishments receive compensation for what he has done to them. Also, I am taking a break for two weeks. I trust you can handle matters without me, eh’ Tommy then said to Arthur, causing Arthur to nod.

‘A break? Arthur asked surprised.

‘I promised Y/N a holiday when this is over. And now it’s over’ Tommy then said.

***

It was at around midnight when you heard Tommy’s car pull up in front of the house and, whilst he told you not to stay up, you did and waited for him in the small reading room leading to his office.

‘You waited up, eh’ Tommy said somewhat surprised when he saw you wearing nothing but black and very seductive lingerie as he hung up his jacket and gun holster.

‘Tommy, are you alright? Your clothes are covered in blood’ you said with worry as you quickly walked over towards him.

‘Yes Love, it’s not my blood’ Tommy said, reassuring you before kissing you gently.

‘Then who’s blood is it?’ you asked almost unbothered by it.

‘Steven’s’ Tommy said carefully, leaving you speechless.

‘I wanted to kill him. But I didn’t. Yet, he got what deserved and he won’t be hurting anyone else’ Tommy then said, sighing as he did and, just like that, you crashed your lips onto his in haste.

There was something wrong but yet sexy about all of this, Tommy covered in blood, the man you loved seeking revenge on the man you hated with all your heart.

‘I need you to fuck me, right here and right now’ you said. Your crimson lips curled, taking on a sinful countenance as your ever hungry tongue slithered forth before whispering ‘I need you Tommy’.

‘My clothes are stained with blood Y/N, I should…’ Tommy said, holding back and, before he could finish his sentence, you responded.

‘I don’t care’ you said with urge and Tommy was quick to return your kiss.

You felt small as he towered over you but you drew up to your full height and boldly ran your hands over his chest.

You then stepped back just far enough to let your nimble fingers glide over Tommy’s tie and shirt, unbuttoning his vest and releasing the loose knot of his tie.

‘Fuck’ he simply growled and you watched his eyes crawl from your encased feet, up your stocking legs, to the clasp of the garter...following the garter straps up and noticing what the frame job was doing to your immaculately bare pussy.

You couldn't help but shiver as Tommy took in the sight of your mound. You could tell just how excited he was by your swollen glistening pussy lips and clit peeking out from under its protective hood. Tommy’s eyes only pulled away reluctantly, to continue the sight-seeing journey they started until your eyes met.

What you saw there made your heart skip a beat. Gone was the selfless man that saved you as he once again transformed into a predator ... and you were his prey.

The smile that your face sported grew with a devilish delight. Finally, the week of abstinence was coming to an end and you would get to experience the beast within Tommy again.

You had no time to react as Tommy stepped close, pushing you back against the wall with a resounding grunt, his hands moving to the lace barely covering your breasts and tugged the flimsy material down.

‘Tell me if I am hurting you, alright? Your back is still bruised’ Tommy said caringly and you nodded before pulling him closer again.

‘I need you to fuck me, Tommy. No holding back, please’ you demanded, causing Tommy to chuckle.

Your breasts were fully exposed now with the prickly lace under the tender flesh, your nipples extended and aching. Tommy used this moment to exert his prowess, as strong fingers captured the taut buds, pinching, rolling and tugging them until he heard a familiar moan.

His lips quickly and fiercely covered yours in a consuming kiss, his tongue forcing its way into your mouth, finding yours and battling with it. You knew the demanding kiss was intended to keep you as quiet as possible with the maids around but you couldn't help but return it with equal urgency and demand.

You felt one of Tommy’s hands release your aching nipple and slither down to your fiery pussy. His fingers rough as they worked between the slick folds and against your erect clit. You cried out, his mouth the only thing keeping the sound to a minimum, as your hips bucked against his questing fingers. You ached for those same fingers to worm their way into your seeping hole and give you the slightest moment of relief, but no ... that was not his plan at all.

Your own hands were not still, as the nails of your left hand raked harshly against his shoulder, while your right hand found the buttons of his pants and tore at them. You needed this just as much as he did and were rewarded with little "pops" as the buttons released. You fished your hand behind Tommy’s briefs seeking what you had hoped was his throbbing cock and were again rewarded as your fingers wrapped around his steely member and began to stroke.

Tommy groaned and broke the kiss, panting heavily, nostrils flaring and you saw the darkness in his eyes deepening. His fingers still danced between your thighs and your own hand continued to stroke his hot cock all the while you dared to whisper, ‘I need you inside me Tommy, please’

With each word spilling from your lips, you squeezed his cock in exclamation. There was no doubting your words or purpose.

Tommy needed no other prompting as he pulled his hands from your needy body and worked his pants and boxers down just past his ass, his beautiful cock sprang into full view now, swollen,

Some pre-cum was glistening at the deep red tip and though you longed to tongue bathe that precious organ, Tommy again decided the outcome of this particular adventure.

His hands cupped your ass, lifting you and you wrapped your legs around his waist, your back hard against the wall, your left-hand clutching at him while your right was positioning his cock at your seeping hole. Tommy’s eyes never left yours as he thrusted forward, burying his cock easily into your lava-like cavern.

‘Oh god yes, fuck Tommy’ you moaned before you tucked your bottom lip between your teeth and bit down, wanting so badly to cry out in pure pleasure as Tommy quite literally took you. Each thrust was more powerful than the last and you knew that you would most definitely be sore in the morning.

Tommy’s fingers curled painfully into the flesh of your ass, holding you tightly as he roughly drove his member into your spasming pussy. It didn't surprise you when you felt the index fingers of his hands work their way to your wicked hole and pry before pushing them inside the sinful star.

‘Oh god, fuck’ you moaned as you bit down harder on your lip, tasting blood but managing to squelch the whorish moan that threatened to burst forth.

Tommy worked his fingers in deeper and though you tried, you couldn't gain enough purchase to meet his pounding thrusts. Tommy pulled back just far enough that his swollen tip rubbed the hidden bundle of nerves within you and sent you flying over the edge.

He saw how your eyes widened, how your own nostrils flared and knew you were about to cum. His mouth covered yours possessively again, drinking in the scream of utter bliss and complete orgasmic delight. Your pussy rippled down Tommy’s length, pulling his own release from him.

Your hand left his shoulder and found Tommy’s head, pulling his mouth tightly to yours. It was your turn to devour his guttural growl and devour you did. You drank his pleasure down as his cock spit his precious seed deep into your mound, painting you.

It all happened so fast with an urgency born of intense need. As Tommy’s cock slipped free, he looked into your eyes.

‘Fuck’ Tommy huffed, letting go of you slowly before kissing you again passionately.

‘I missed this Tommy’ you said just before Tommy pulled up his pants and lifted you up.

‘Where are we going?’ you asked as Tommy carried you upstairs.

‘The bathtub for round two, then the bed for round three and I haven’t decided where we will take round four yet, maybe my office…’ Tommy smirked and your eyes widened in disbelieve.

‘I told you, you won’t be walking straight for days, eh’ he then grinned, causing you to giggle.

Tag List:

@lilymurphy03 @deefigs @theflamecrystal @desperate-and-broken @weepingstudentfishhorse @livinginfantaxy @rosey1981 @atomicsoulcollecto @peakyboyslover @nerdy4itall@elenavampire21 @hanster1998@mariapaiva13 @fairypitou @harry-is-my-sunflower @zozeebo @lauren-raines-x @kasaikawa @littlewierdalien @sad-huffle-nerd @theflamecrystal @peakymalfoyscullymulder @themissthang@0ghostwriter0 @stylescanbeatmyback @1-800-peakyblinders @datewithgianni @momoneymolife @ntmynouis @lilymurphy03 @mcntsee@cloudofdisney @missymurphy1985 @peakymalfoyscullymulder @otterly-fey @janelongxox @uchihacumdump @basiclassy @being-worthy @chaotic-bean-of-smolness @margoo0 @chocolatehalo @vhscillian @ysmmsy @littlewierdalien @crazymar15  @stickyknightflowerbailiff @im-constantly-fangirling @goldensunflowe-r  @tellingyouastory  @captivatedbycillianmurphy​  @namelesslosers​  @littlewhiterose​  @ttzamara​  @ttzamara @cilleveryone  ​

@severewobblerlightdragon​  @ysmmsy​  

Cannot Tag (please check your settings):

@l0tsofpennies @trolleydolly @avonlady1985 @chrisevanshoeee @daydreamingnymph @fookingshelby  @thenattitude  

[harunayuuka2060]

Audacious!MC's relationship with the 12 Concubines

1. Nieve - The first concubine

-a close childhood friend of MC

-born as a princess but never been chosen as an empress of her own country (which MC solved btw)

-likes gambling, diamonds, pearls, and white flowers

-is a lesbian and has a lover

-agreed to be a concubine for political purposes and freedom

2. Della - the second concubine

-a former maid

-met MC when she once served them during a party in one of their territories

-a bit shy, always worried about people's opinion about her

-MC's confidant

-likes reading books and is good in singing

3. Rix - the third concubine

-is an asexual; MC made him into a concubine just to tease him

-Second command of the army

-has good sword skills and usually have a sparring session with MC

-thinks that MC is a complete idiot

-likes cooking and outdoor activities

4. Hellios - the fourth concubine

-MC's little tsundere (their relationship is completely platonic)

-really disliked MC at first because of their audacious personality

-has been seen MC naked for a couple of times

-learned that she's an asexual

-likes to nag at MC and points out their fault, a bit of a perfectionist

5. Suzanne - the fifth concubine

-an aroace; agreed to become a concubine only for the position and the benefits of it

-but she also likes MC for being truthful to their words

-has been thinking of whacking MC sometimes because of their behavior

-likes chess and fishing

6. Ruru - the sixth concubine

-pronouns: She/Him

-the most adorable and kindest concubine MC has ever had

-understanding and helpful

-She's not picky of gifts especially if they are made just for him

-secretly admires Della

7. Non - the seventh concubine

-jack of all trades that's why MC chose him

-always feels haggard when he's not doing anything

-if he doesn't like something, he will say it

-only talks to MC when there's an important matter

-doesn't give a shit about what's going on within the harem

8. Shiela - the eighth concubine

-is blind because of a disease she had when she was young

-MC's closest concubine and the only one they never played a prank on

-her palace and everything around her are made according to her needs

-likes smelling the flowers and listening to music

9. Pierre - the ninth concubine

-Pronouns: He/Him

-a talented introvert; always a victim of MC's behavior

-promised to himself that MC is the only extrovert he will tolerate

-likes to hang out with Suzanne and Shiela

-his favorite sport is horseback riding

10. Lana - the tenth concubine

-the simplest among concubines

-she got her concubine position to save her little brother who was sent to war

-smart and caring, but never understand dirty jokes

-has a strong maternal instincts and knows when MC is in danger

-likes kids and cleaning at home

11. Chante - the eleventh concubine

- MC's pansexual baby and the youngest concubine

-was sold by parents in hopes of being saved from MC's wraths

-asked her parents to be punished

-likes to party and going out with friends

-wasn't able to stay out late not until she was old enough

12. Devian - the twelfth concubine

- a fire mage

- decided to be a concubine just for fun

-one of MC's generals

-is secretly a hopeless romantic

-hides when MC goes crazy and wants to drag him just to start a fight with the water dragons

-exceptionally loyal with the harem

[dwellordream]

“During the early Middle Ages, being born out of wedlock was not much of an issue for the elite. Many early medieval kings – Charlemagne included – had concubines who mothered children that were fully part of the kings’ lineage. However, from the eleventh and twelfth centuries onwards, the Church implemented and enforced a series of laws aiming at framing and strengthening marriages.

Marital regulations centred on what it meant for a marriage to be valid, severely repressed adultery and concubinage and limited the rights of illegitimate children. Bastards, for instance, could no longer become members of the secular clergy. Illegitimate children suffered legal restrictions limiting the scope of their ambitions and careers, not to mention that illegitimacy tainted their reputation – at least in the case of non-noble bastards.

The birth of an illegitimate child was even a significant burden for their mothers whose reputation was ruined. As we shall see in this article, some mothers abandoned their child, leaving the baby at the door of a church or a hospital, but others kept the baby and raised it. The baby’s father could officially recognize the parentage. But this did not make the illegitimate children legitimate. Acknowledgement of parentage simply created legal duties and responsibilities between the father and the child, as this article lays out.

From the fourteenth century onwards, the urban authorities of Montpellier helmed a charity dedicated to “exposed” children – abandoned and orphaned children and babies they entrusted to wetnurses and foster families for their upkeep. In the case of abandoned children, the consuls strived to identify the parents to return the babies to their care. A charter drafted to that effect on June 30, 1505, tells us the peculiar story of a baby girl, aged one or two months, who had come into their care. The consuls wanted to identify the baby’s parents.

According to rumours, the baby girl, named Jehanne, was born at the end of May. She “was said to be of Thomas Artault […]; the said Artault would have had her with the participation [sic] of Agnès Gilbaude who currently lives with Jehan Rondellet, a merchant of Montpellier.” Agnès likely worked as a servant at Rondellet’s house.

The lord consuls had Agnès come to city hall. They spoke to her and inquired about the girl. Agnès confessed that “it was true and that the little girl was and belonged to the said Thomas Artault, who had participated [sic] three times carnally with her in a vineyard.” In other words, Agnès and Thomas had had sex three times in a vineyard, and pregnancy had ensued.

The consuls then asked Thomas to come to city hall, where Agnès and the lieutenant of the local court of justice were waiting. The consuls urged Thomas to financially support the baby girl before the story became the talk of the town, ruining his reputation and Agnès’. But Thomas denied being the baby’s father. If Agnès was distraught, she was also certain of Thomas’ involvement in the pregnancy. She offered to repeat her assertions under oath and on the relics of St. Anthony. The consuls therefore sent Thomas, Agnès and the lieutenant of the court of justice to the church of St. Anthony for Agnès to proceed to her pledge.

In the church, the priest stood, holding a book “in which was written Christ’s passion and the four Gospels” and on top of which he had placed the holy relics of St. Anthony – that is, the saint’s arm. Agnès repeated that Thomas was the baby’s father and swore it was true “in the hands of the priest”, on the holy book and the holy relics. This pledge seemed to have made a strong impression on the lieutenant, who then told the consuls what had happened in church.

The consuls and the court lieutenant agreed that Thomas would support Jehanne’s expenses and would recognize her as his daughter, under the penalty of a jail sentence. In the region of Montpellier, fathers whose paternity was recognized or who freely acknowledged a child’s paternity were obligated to financially support their bastard child for three years.

Testamentary sources from Languedoc testify both to the abandonment of illegitimate children, as the above story illustrates, and to the raising of children by the mother and her family. Sources also show that the fathers of these bastard children sometimes acknowledged their paternity and went beyond the three years of upkeep that the Montpellier charter had made mandatory.

Half-a-dozen wills show fathers making testamentary bequests to their illegitimate children, all boys or grown-up men. These fathers had no legitimate heir alive at the time of their will and most of them granted them generous bequests. The wills suggest that these fathers had fostered close relations with their illegitimate sons and behaved towards them as most fathers did towards their legitimate children.

In 1483 for instance, a nobleman from Montpellier left 100 golden écus and his upkeep to his bastard son Philippe. The father said that he made this donation so that his son could have an honest life and “upheld his rank.” Half a century before, a man named Anthony Bonet, a peasant from the village of Prades, gave all his goods to his underage and illegitimate son Guilhem under the condition that Guilhem takes care of his father and his father’s wife, whether sick or in health, until their death.

These examples show fathers of illegitimate children undertaking traditional parental responsibilities in providing for the needs of their descendants. The case of Anthony Bonet and his bastard son also illustrates the reciprocal duties and responsibilities embedded with ties of filiation: children were expected to take care of their parents.

One final example stresses that, once paternity was acknowledged, fathers could not shy away from their responsibilities. On May 10, 1414, a woman also named Agnès, the daughter of a deceased cobbler and the wife of another cobbler from Béziers, made a peculiar declaration under oath. She spoke in front of Johan Castanhier, abbot of Valmagne, a small Cistercian monastery near Montpellier, a notary and five witnesses.

Agnès declared to the people present that “some time ago, before you, Johan Castanhier, were appointed abbot of Valmagne, I was talking to you and you knew me carnally and impregnated me with a child named Anthony”.

Agnès added that “in the presence of a notary and witnesses, I assert that Anthony, my son, is your son, that you engendered him and procreated him in me. This Anthony, my son, I give him to you and you shall do towards Anthony, your son, as any father is supposed to do towards his son”.

The notary then wrote down Johan Castanhier’s words, who said, “I receive him as my son and I promise you, Anthony, my son, to do as any good father must and is supposed to do, and that, I promise you with my hand on my chest.” Johan Castanhier thereon acknowledged he was the child’s father and that he would take him under his care and would provide for his needs.

The fact that the child’s father was a cleric is not surprising. Medieval archives are plentiful with documents and stories about clergymen having affairs and fathering children. In medieval Spain, it was customary for clergymen to have concubines and children well integrated into the fabric of society.

In medieval France or England, these indiscretions were also common – although not customary – and much more repressed. The case of Agnès, Johan the Abbot and the little Anthony does not tell if Johan would suffer the consequences of his actions career-wise. What is clear, however, is that the clergyman was ready to assume his parental responsibilities.

If many illegitimate children were abandoned by their parents, it was not always the case. Women who could and wanted to keep their children were able to do so. In some cases, the baby’s father would get involved, at least financially, in their bastard’s maintenance and upkeep. It seems, from testamentary documents, that men were more inclined to acknowledge their fatherhood if they were deprived of legitimate heirs.”

- Lucie Lamonier, “Illegitimate children in the Middle Ages.”

[questionsonislam]

How was life in Arabian Peninsula before Islam? Could you please give information about the belief systems of that time?

Arabs lived as nomads in the Arabian Peninsula before Islam. Their livelihood was based on animal breeding, and some Arabs were engaged in farming in oases in the inner parts of Arabia. In addition to this, one of the most important ways of livelihood was also robberies of caravans which were the custom of the desert. The way of being organized of Arabs before Islam was the classical Badawi system (nomadic way of living).

According to that system, there was a committee whose members were respectable persons of tribe. In tribal life, rules were formed according to the ancestors’ way of living and there was no private land. Meadows, waters, and sometimes even herds were common property of the tribe. Makkah turned into a commercial center because of its convenient position and people were settled there. The settled life, development of trade, and private riches earned as a result of it accelerated the collapse of tribal life.

Tribal ties became loose. Economic concerns and the idea of earning more replaced tribal solidarity. The fact that Makkah was getting urbanized more and more and due to the hierarchy among tribes and members of tribes, a new separate regime emerged. According to that regime, the city was governed by a council. As for the council, it consisted of ten leaders who had different roles inside that regime and whose powers inherited from father to son. Thanks to the Kaaba which was worshipped, Makkah was considered as Holy Land. Among tribes, peace was announced by the city government for development of trade and tribes went on pilgrimage by visiting the temple in Makkah in that period. Loots and robberies against caravans which were the cornerstones of trade still went on although if they decreased within that period. The continuing wars and tribalism, though they were about to disappear, were the biggest obstacles to social life and trade. There was a need for an institution which would organize life and relationships among tribes. That would be a state.

Tribal life in Arabia started to be shaken to the foundation. However, there was no slavery in progress. After primitive communal society, the next step as a result of natural development would be slavery society. However, slavery had not developed, that is, labor of slaves had never been crucial to social development and production. Although there were slaves owned by people within the society, they were mostly used for housework, protection of caravans, and as concubines (female slaves). It was rare to see labor of slaves in the production.

Dominant religion before the rise of Islam was paganism. Each tribe had many idols each of whom were symbol of a god. The idols had been sculptured as figures such as a woman, bird, lion etc. the inside Kaaba, which was considered holy by all tribes. It was full of idols and there were also about one hundred temples far from the Kaaba in Arabia. Judaism and Christianity had also entered Arabia through merchants. However, Arabs did not show interest in those religions that they did not see close to themselves. Those religions had very little support within Arabia. Islam, unlike Christianity, arose within those historical conditions. When Christianity arose, the state of Rome was a slavery society. Christianity also existed by rejecting the authority of that state and giving hope to the oppressed class. However, tribal system was still dominant although it was about to collapse in the conditions in which Islam arose. Therefore, Islam’s development process would be different from Christianity.

As it is known, our Prophet was born in 570 (or 571) on the Gregorian calendar, on a Monday corresponding to the twelfth day of the month Rabi al- Awwal . When we search for religions and belief systems, we meet some strange faith types as far as we understand from the Holy Qur’an.

The most important ones of them are as follows:

1. Hanif (monotheism): They were persons who continued the remains of the religion of Abraham. It is accepted that most of Arabs believed in that religion until idolatry was spread. They had accepted the belief in One God via Ismail. When the Prophet (pbuh) was born, those who believed in One God believed in Oneness of Allah and the Day of Judgment, refused to worship idols, and did not accept many customs of Jahiliyya. They had no military or political power.

2. Star-worshipping: There were people who worshipped stars in Yemen, Arab Peninsula (near Damascus according to some), Hurran valleys, and upper parts of Iraq. They were called Sabiis. Although we do not accurately know when and how star-worshipping had begun within Arab society, we can understand that this belief was available in the time of Suleiman from the anecdote of Suleiman and Balkis, the Queen of Sheba, which is mentioned in the Qur’an (The Ant (an-Naml), 27/20-24). They maintained their existence till the time of our Prophet. They are mentioned in the Qur’an as follows: “Among His signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. But do not prostrate yourselves before the sun or the moon; rather prostrate before Allah, who created them both, if it is He whom you worship.” (Detailed (Fussilat), 41/33)

However, those people were in the minority and had no military and political power.

3. Zoroastrianism: There were some groups which believed in Zoroastrianism in Iraq and Bahrain. They worshipped fire. The Iranian emperor who was Zoroastrian protected them. Later on, along with Jewish people, they played a crucial role by setting Muslims against each other and casting doubt on Islamic beliefs.

4. Christianity: There were some Christian groups among Taghlib, Qudaa, and Ghassan tribes in the north of Peninsula and the South of Yemen. They also had no political or military power. Within the Peninsula, there were also some Christian groups but they were very little in number. Christianity entered Arabia as from beginning from the year 340 as a result of the invasions of Romans and Ethiopians. (Mubarakfuri 1980, 47)

5. Judaism: There were Jewish people in Yemen, Wadil Qura, Khyber, Tayma and Yathrib (Madinah’s name before Islam). Jewish people had economic, political, and military power unlike the orher groups. They were predominant. They called themselves as the elite nation of God and believed that God would make them authorize to manage people. Therefore, they expected that the last prophet would be born among their own nation. Upon the invasion of their country by Buhtunnasr in 587 B.C, they had migrated to Arabia. (ibid , 46)

6. Idolatry: It had spread all around Arab Peninsula. It was more effective and more common than all the other belief systems. There are different views about when it had entered Arabia and how it had been common. The most common one of them is that idolatry entered Arabia via a man named Amr Bin Luhai. This person, the leader of the tribe Huzaa, was a person who was famous for his honesty and interest in religions. The people of that time saw him as one of great scholars of his time. Amr who caught a kind of skin disease was recommended to go to Hurran, located in Damascus, and to have a bath with water there. Keeping the advice, Amr went to that place, had a bath and recovered. He saw there that people worshipped idols and he liked it. Taking an idol called Hubal with him, he put into Kaaba and began to worship it. He also wanted his people to worship it. In the course of time, this worshipping had become so common that among Arabs that each tribe had its own idol. When the Prophet (pbuh) conquered Makkah, there were 360 idols in the Kaaba; destroying all them, our Prophet cleaned the Kaaba from idols.

Another account says: “when Ismail’s children grew up and had to go outside Makkah because of lack of enough food, they took some Haram soil with them to remember their father and later showed respect to it very much. In the course of time, it changed into worshipping by accepting it as holy. Thus, idolatry was founded and it developed in the course of time.

Since the most common faith was idolatry in Hejaz District in which the Prophet was actually brought up, the Prophet primarily fought against idolatry. The most well-known ones of idols, some of which are also mentioned in the Qur’an are as follows:

Manat: It was in a place called Al-Musallal between Makkah and Madinah. Ansar tribes such as Saad, Huzaa etc. worshipped it.

Lat : it was in Taif. People of Taif worshipped it. Our Prophet, after the conquest of Makkah, made it break down by sending Abu Sufian bin Harb and Mughira bin Shuba.

Uzza: It was the idol of the tribes Ghatafan, Ghani, and Bahila. Our Prophet made it break down by sending Khalid.

Hubal: it was the biggest idol of Quraysh. It was made of red agate.

Apart from those, they had idols named Isaaf, Naila, Wadd, Suwa, Yaghus, and Yauq etc., some of which have been mentioned in Arabic poems. For example, Amr bin Humama ad-Dusi, when he burnt the idol called Dhulkaffain, read this couplet:

“Oh Dhulkaffain! I am not from the time of your father.. My birth is before your birth. I filled your heart with fire. (Shukri, 2/209)

Arabs made their idols of stone, wood and other; they also made them of food. For example, the tribe Sons of Hanifa ate a big idol that they had made of flour and dates during a famine so they were criticized by the poet of the rival tribe as follows:

Sons of Hanifa ate their gods, when the time of famine came. (Qalaji 1998, 2)

When someone saw that a fox peed on an idol which he built in the garden of his house, he burst with anger by saying how one who could not protect itself in such a condition could be a god and said the following:

“Is he a god over whose head a fox peed? Pay attention; those over whom foxes peed are despised.” (ibid)

As far as we understand from those kinds of verses above and some verses in the Holy Qur’an, idolatry did not satisfy most of the Arabs. Since they originally had the belief of Ismail and Abraham (pbuh), they believed in the existence of an Almighty God. Thus, some verses in the Holy Qur’an refer to it. For example:

If you ask them: 'Who has created the heavens and the earth?' They will reply: 'Allah.' Say: 'Praise belongs to Allah!' But most of them do not have knowledge. (Luqman, 31/25)

“‘We only worship them so that they will bring us near to Allah’ (they say)” (the Troops (az-Zumar), 39/3)

But those whom you invoke, other than Allah do not create anything, they are themselves created. (The Bee, 16/20)

As it is seen, Arabs had some contradiction about that issue. In the Qur’an, that contradiction is mentioned in many verses. For example:

Is He (Allah) who creates as he (idols) who does not create? Will you not remember? (the Bee (an-Nahl), 16/17)

We can shortly classify Arabs’ ways of worshipping and ceremony as follows: begging and praying in front of idols, wishing that they ease their worries when they are in trouble or sick; visiting idols inside the Kaaba, prostrating themselves in front of them, circumambulating them, and praying; sacrificing an animal for them in order to be close to them, which has been banned in the Qur’an by saying “you are forbidden (to consume)………….of animals sacrificed on stones (to idols).” (al-Maida, 5/3)

Idolater Arabs gave a part of their foods or crop and livestock to idols or Allah. The holy Qur’an mentions it and bans it:

They set aside for Allah a share of what He has created of tilth and cattle saying: 'This is for Allah so they claim and this for our associates (gods).' The share of their associates never reaches Allah, but the share of Allah reaches their associates. How evil they judge! (Cattle (al-Anam), 6/136)

Arabs made a vow to idols, too. When they decided to go for a long journey or to start an important work, they came to the Kaaba and sacrificed an animal for idols; the oracle who was there took out a bag in which there were fortune-telling arrows and told their fortunes. On some of those arrows “Do”, over some “do not do”, over some “empty” were written. If it was “do”, they would do what they wanted to do; if it was “do not do”, they gave up; if it was “empty”, they drew again. Islam banned those, too. In Islam, when somebody cannot decide over what he or she will do, there are some methods which are called consultation (istishara) and seeking goodness from Allah (istikhara)

Arabs in that period did not believe in the Day of Judgment and resurrection after death. Thus, someday, one of the notable persons of Quraysh, Umayya Ibn Khalaf, by holding two decayed bones in his hand, came to the Prophet; breaking them into small pieces, he asked: “Oh Muhammad! Do you think that Allah can vitalize these, too?” Replying him, the Messenger of Allah said, “Yes, Allah will kill you, later vitalize, and then burn you in Hell.” That incidence is mentioned in the Qur’an as follows:

“Has the human not seen how We created him from a drop (of sperm)? Yet he is a clear opponent. And he has struck for Us a parable, and forgotten his

own creation. He asks: 'Who will quicken the bones after they have decayed?’ Say: 'He will quicken them who originated them the first

time; He has knowledge of every creation.” (Ya Seen, 36/77-79)

Despite all of the corrupt belief systems, we see that there were those who believed in the Day of Judgment affected by Christianity and Hanif (monotheism). Thus, one of the poets of Jahiliyya Period, Al-Akhnas Ibn Shihab at-Tamimi writes the following in one of his poems:

“There is no doubt that Allah will reward people in the Day of Reckoning because of their good deeds.” (Qalaji, 18)

[sesskagarchive]

Hello, do you have any fanfic recommendations of a Lord/Concubine or Mistress AUs? Anything from Sesshomaru having a harem or him being in a political marriage and falling for Kagome and be his mistress kind of concept. I read a fanfic (The Twelfth Concubine by Aubrey Simone) with that concept and I freaking loved it but unfortunately was abandoned and I've been looking for fanfics similar ever since but I am failing miserably. Thank you so much and I really appreciate what you guys do in the Sesskag community! I would be lost if I didn't find this blog to look for good fanfics.

Hi Anon,

Thanks for submitting this ask. Here’s what I was able to find. Happy reading!

-Admin Sage

Concubines by Oki

Posted on: Dokuga, FFnet Rating: MA Summary:  The humans lost the war between the Demons and ultimately lost their freedom. Now there's a new ruler, rumors of a coup brewing inside the borders, and humans are now forced into breeding or servitude. However, not every demon supports this new world order. Any chance for Humanity's freedom now rests solely on the shoulders of a Miko concubine named Kagome and a Demon Lord named Sesshomaru. Status: Abandoned

Deep Desires by Shastuhh

Posted on: A03, Dokuga, FFnet Rating: T Summary:  Sesskag prompt raffle: She was forbidden to him, but he wanted her anyway. She was his brother's favorite concubine. 

Koshitsu no Sokushitsu *Imperial Concubine* by Joo777

Posted on: Dokuga Rating: M Summary: To aid her in escaping a life of hardship Higurashi Shin, a poor merchant registers his 16 year old daughter Higurashi Kagome into an Imperial Concubine audition. Will Kagome survive the Palace's tasks and obstacles to become the Koshitsu no Sokushitsu?  She captivates the emperor with her wit, personality and piercing blue eyes but as an Imperial Concubine she will belong to both the Emperor and his son Crown Prince--Sesshomaru Taisho. Is she willing to share herself amongst the Imperial house or will her humanity and hearts rationality stand in the way? (Ps: This will eventually become mainly a Kag/Sess pairing ) Status: Abandoned

Miko of my Desire by ruuruu-chan

Posted on: Dokuga, FFnet Rating: MA Summary: Caught by slave traders; Kagome is forced into the harem of her sworn enemy Sesshomaru. Now owing him a significant debt she is forced to be his personal servant and to bow at his every need. Will Kagome be able to escape her fate? Love is truly a demon.

Sesshomaru’s Concubine by Lady of the Gaia

Posted on: FFnet Rating: MA Summary: Sesshomaru mated soon after Naraku's defeat, but she kept a secret from him...she's barren. His mother tells him to get a concubine that could give birth to his children, so his line does not end. But it seems that the newly returned Kagome is the one chosen to do so. Rated M for a reason, people, so don't complain if you don't like it. Not for little girls or boys!

Suddenly A Concubine by Stella Mira

Posted on: A03, Dokuga Rating: MA Summary: Kagome only wanted to save a few hanyou children from starvation and mistreatment. How she ended up as a potential concubine of the Western Lord when she was brought before him to answer for her supposed crimes was beyond her understanding. Semi PWP. Status: Abandoned

The Virginal Concubine by misty

Posted on: Dokuga, FFnet Rating: MA Summary: Sesshomaru has been feeling the pull of his instincts and can't ignore it any longer. He needs his pack with him- but there is just a few tiny problems- 1) his pack is dead. 2) the only family he has left is a young girl that doesn't know him. and 3)if anyone learns of whom her father is- her life is forfeit. Status: Abandoned

When the Belladonnas Bloom by NovemberDoll

Posted on: Dokuga Rating: MA Summary: Cursed upon birth, exalted as the most notorious puppet of the Warlord Onigumo, his first and beloved consort finally turns sixteen. A gift from her generous lover: a harem of her own, to quell her insatiable lust. But many a man that stepped in her bedchambers were never seen alive again. That would change tonight, when a golden-eyed concubine accidentally unravels a most hidden secret. (AU) Status: Abandoned