#and it’s just a simple garter stitch throw

[gaviicreates]

FO: time flies by in the yellow and green...

...Stick around and you'll see what I mean

(there will also be more pictures under the cut)

Remember literally yesterday when I mentioned I was doing a stretchy bind-off purlwise, and I loved the fluidity of it? Well, obviously a bind off pretty much heralds the end of a project in sight so here we are. I was so eager for this one to be completed that I lightly washed the shawl and pinned it overnight so that, by today, I'd have my first finished, knitted shawl.

Pattern: Mara Shawl by Madelinetosh, available here through Ravelry

Yarn: Arcane Fibre Works, "Calm Waters" -80/20 Extra Fine Merino Nylon Super Wash Fingering Weight. (2 Skeins)

Tools: Clover Takumi Bamboo Circulars - US 5 3.75mm, Eucalan Lavender Wash for blocking

This shawl is a garter stitch shawl with yarn overs down the center and sides to both increase and add a bit of lacy interest. I had actually started on this before I finished the throw blanket, so these two pieces together were so critical for my knitting journey thus far, and I've learned so much already.

While the throw maintained the upward structure of its rows, this shawl gave me the experience of increasing along the center and sides, working outward as well as up. Once I figured out the yarn-over and the cadence from row to row, the location of the yarn-overs was easy to remember. Simple, but elegant on the piece. It did take me a few rows in to figure out that a stitch marker for the RS vs WS would probably be helpful, and from there it was smooth sailing.

Almost too smooth, because I just kept going. I don't remember the cord size I used, but eventually working the stitches scrunched up on the needles, and the work curled into itself. Once that started, I had a hard time imagining what it would look like finished. I had no idea what the shaping would look like once it was off the needles, so my plan was to hope I just figured out when would be a good time to stop. Low stakes winging it, if you will.

She's big. This is no shawlette you behold. The length surpasses my wingspan on both sides, and the drape down the back is lovely and full while the fabric itself is light and breathable between the stitches. I think because the needles were a bit bigger than recommended size for fingering weight, this resulted in some space between the stitches.

I'm dreaming of that first cool day of fall, and wrapping myself up with her covering my shoulders pinned with a nice brooch, or rolled into a scarf around my neck over denim. She's going to be a wonderful addition to my wardrobe, and I am ecstatic with the final length and look.

I mentioned above I used two skeins. Another learning curve for me - one I intentionally played with here - was the way the colors fell. I don't think it's a crochet thing specifically because I know opinions still vary, but coming from a craft that tends to create potentially less ordered fabrics with variegated yarns, I'm kind of open to color pooling at times. It's not for everyone, but I think there's a fun little magic in letting the colors land the way they want to in both crafts it seems.

I started with one skein, then switched to alternating after a while to learn that technique, then ended with one skein again as I finished out the project. I was nervous about this choice, especially as I started seeing entire blocks of yellow forming. But in the final garment, I don't feel like these larger streaks take away from the color combination. I'm loving that it's not uniform and there's a bit of fun and randomness to how the colors fall.

Towards the final rows, the pattern switched from garter to 1x1, then 2x2 ribbing, which I could see being a great opportunity to switch out to another color to complement. But I really wanted to have my yellow and green shawl, so I decided to keep working up with the same yarn. Plus I am kind of in love with seeing how different stitches create a new texture that gives the colors in a variegated yarn a bit of a different life to them.

Now - I do have one more skein of this colorway, as I had bought a just-in-case extra. I am thinking my big shawl needs a little something else to go with it - maybe a hat or some fingerless gloves, oooh! or some socks.

Now, I have... how many more months till I can wear this?

#Gavii Makes Stuff #knitting #knitted shawl #knitblr #arcane fibre works #mara shawl

[warlock-enthusiast]

"Do you know a way out of here?"

Prompt number: 16 Fanfiction Fandom: Dragon Age (set after Inquisition) Rating: M Characters: Gaspard de Chalons, Persephone Trevelyan Warnings: some risky talk, swearing

Fuck Orlais.

Fuck Orlesians.

Fuck this stupid mask. 

Persephone tore it off her face, finally free of the confinements. She was tempted to stomp on it as well, but the delicate jewels stitched into the fabric were worth too much to simply throw it away. Some out of luck folk would be able to start a new life with such a high amount of gold, which is what she’d planned for it after this stupid day. Give it away and make someone happy. People still strove to find a new purpose after a new Divine took the golden seat and declared all wars over. 

First she had to escape this maze though. Some noble family, known for their splendor and summer gatherings, used magic to quickly grow the hedges and trap every guest in them. Persephone guessed that some heirs would not survive the next hours, because it appeared as a wonderful place for an assassination. 

And now she seemed lost as well.

Her skills concerning finding her way around the wilds were never great to begin with. Persephone preferred to hit things instead of solving them with her mind, but she neither wore armor nor did they allow her to carry her weapons. A single dagger stuck close to her thighs and she felt awfully naked without sword and shield. 

Her husband clearly didn’t care about her worries and promised a hunting trip after this, which suited her interests better than this fucking maze. Ten minutes later, Persephone got the impression that she was running around in circles. At least she was now joined by someone else. 

Gaspard de Chalons himself. All dressed in black and silver and cutting a rather impressive figure. He didn’t wear any weapons either and a mask that seemed so more simple than hers had been. 

She raised her brows, watching her better half pondering the way as well. Left or right? "Do you know a way out of here?"

“No, my dear. They forgot to grant the Emperor the privilege of a map.” He turned around, clearly not surprised by finding her at his side. His arms were held against his back and amusement was shown in his eyes. “Shit.”

“Indeed. We better be prepared to fight off my opponents.” Sighing, Persephone tried to listen to the quiet around them. Some voices sounded a few hedges away. Laughter, distant music, but nothing that spoke of assassins or affronted nobles. Some of them still could not get over the fact that he’d married a Trevelyan. Her lineage simply wasn’t impressive enough. 

“Why does everyone always want to kill you? We can’t go anywhere without someone being poisoned or stabbed.” “My charming nature for sure.”

Persephone huffed. “Charming, yes. One of the last words that I’d use for you.

“Hm, what words do you prefer when you think of me?”

She settled on a marble bench, pulling up her skirts, and showing him her tanned legs. The silken stockings were held in place by garters. Something that Gaspard only seldom saw on his wife.

“Lover, equal, stubborn bastard.” It was an invitation, though a stupid one, considering that they just talked about possible attempts on his life.

He laughed, slowly pulling off his gloves. “I can work with that.”

#fictober23 #gaspard de chalons #persephone trevelyan #dragon age #dragon age inquisition #headcanons #the always otp

[wasatchmountaindogs]

My WIP is clearly the most comfortable spot in the room.

#I’m just glad he didn’t pull off stitches #oso #knitting #wip #this blanket has been on my needles for months #and it’s just a simple garter stitch throw #for a gift #but I have had to pull out multiple rows at a time #because why not? #really it’s because I didn’t like the new stripe color I had picked #so it had to be unraveled partially #and then I picked up my stitches on the wrong side #and my color work was off #idk why this project in particular has been so rough #but alas #I’m on the last third

[caligobeltrao]

Brahms with an S/O who knits

So I rewatched The Boy... head empty, only Brahms. And apparently he’s the only one I flipping write for I’m sorry I swear I want to write for more people... Also my inbox is empty so if you have requests... please send them? <3 

SO first and foremost, let’s set the scene. You have just been hired as a nanny in the English countryside for a doll named Brahms, there’s no cell service and no wifi, so tbh it’s a great time to knit. 

You fall into his routine quickly, and add your own little knitting breaks in where you can, mostly at night or during music time. 

You start out with small, simple stuff; things you know how to make really easily and don’t take up too much brain space, like dishcloths or a plain garter stitch scarf (or two... or ten...). Things you’ve made a thousand times before. Things that you don’t really take notice of if they go missing. 

Of course they do, but it’s easy to chuck a scarf you’re not going to wear in a drawer and then forget you ever made it. 

It is a little more noticeable when you decide you want to gift Malcolm a particular thing you’ve made (since there’s really nobody else to give things to around here) but can’t find the one you had in mind. 

Which, side note, if it is something like a scarf, he would wear it at every grocery drop off he does from then on. You can’t change my mind. 

But obviously that gets boring. Eventually you ask Malcolm if with his next grocery run he could bring you the yarn you’d want to make a nice blanket. The manor can get chilly, after all, and he agrees. 

When THAT goes missing, you definitely notice. And, assuming you get the warning that Brahms is playful, you can ask for it back and you’ll find it neatly folded up on his bed the next day. Which is when you decide to start making things for Brahms. 

It’s perfect! It’s a judgement-free way to practice your skills, AND you can make you and the doll matching sweaters. How fucking cute is that??? 

Malcolm thinks this is... slightly more odd. Worrying, maybe. Especially if you, like me, would have taken to treating the doll like a real child from the get-go. 

But you’re keeping yourself busy, he can’t fault you for that lol. 

Anyway, Brahms LOVES this turn of events. He loves seeing you and him (his effigy at least) in matching sweaters! He loves the little socks you knit for him, especially his new sleep time socks! He loves how proud you are when you slip his little knitted cap and scarf and gloves on! 

What he doesn’t like is when something is new or difficult for you and watching you rip out your work because you dropped a stitch, or looking at a previously finished work a few weeks later and deciding you hate it so you rip it out or just throw it away if you don’t think you can salvage the yarn. 

Well... he doesn’t mind you throwing them out, so much, because he’ll just... snatch that right up. It’s your work! You made it for him and it’s beautiful! How dare you be so critical on yourself! >:( 

Even worse is the disappointment the first time you try to knit him a sweater and you measured the doll incorrectly so it doesn’t fit. :( He hates seeing you sad. 

Back to your perspective though, it’s much nicer to have someone (something) to knit for. Plus, he has to wear and appreciate your items. He’s a doll, he’ll wear whatever you put on him and in your mind, he loves it lol. So there’s no chance of the resentment or anger or disappointment you get when you make something for a family member and they just never use it. 

You also knit him his own blanket for his bed, which real Brahms obviously takes immediately. That’s what started all of this, after all. And you would take the time to stitch a little B on one of the corners, to make it all his. 

You aren’t surprised by it going missing. In fact, you’re happy that Brahms likes your things. Like I mentioned with the disappointment, you’ve most likely felt this before in your life, so it’s odd that a ghost (as that’s honestly the least weird conclusion here) appreciates what you do more than some of the people you know. 

Also imagine knitting with the doll on your lap. 🥺 Cute. Cute cute cute. 

But then you meet real Brahms. And that’s weird, like I know there’s a lot weird here, but you can’t just make a seamless transition into this, there’s an adjustment period, so you stop knitting. 

Which he Does Not Like. 

Like sir??? What did you expect? 

Well he expected everything to be the same but it’s him and not the doll, really. 

Which he makes pretty obvious fairly quickly. He wants a matching sweater, and he asks you outright. “You make such pretty things... can I have one? Please? I’ve been very good.” 

So of course you do. You decide to take a pattern and color you already made for you and the doll and make it for him, so the three of you could match. Which is weird in and of itself, but adult life is already so goddamn weird, this might as well happen. 

And that starts a new cycle. 

He loves that he can now show you appreciation for the items you make him. He can thank you much easier, no worries of frightening you with a disembodied voice from a “ghost.” He can wear what you make, and he does, all the time. He’ll give you kisses too, since you’re being good. 

And he’s always excited every time you gift him something new, like it’s never happened before, as if he HASN’T seen you working on it for the past month. Each and every time, he has such love and joy in his heart and he will Let You Know damn it. 

Legit always has something you made on. If it’s warm, he has a light cardigan you made. If it’s cold, a sweater and his blanket. And either way he’ll have a pair of your socks on. Nonnegotiable. 

Honestly he gets super worried if you go to wash his things. What if it falls apart? You assure him you know what you’re doing, but it still takes probably six to seven washes for him to get less tense about something going in the washing machine. 

You will never be able to toss out anything ever again. Dropped stitch? A tie come undone and it’s unraveling? A few weeks of looking at it making you wanna cry? Just doesn’t look like you wanted it to? Nope! It’s Brahms’s now. And he’ll love it and cherish it as if it’s the only gift you’ve ever given him. 

Literally no room for you to be insecure about the things you make. Only love. You’d think he’d get tired or bored of it, but it’s a physical representation of time and care you’re putting into him and his care. He clings to that. 

The only time he won’t interrupt you for your attention is when you knit. Because he understands that’s also a type of attention. He does like to be in the room with you when you do it though. And you can get him to read while you do it, so that’s nice. 

He will be a little jealous/salty about anything you’ve given Malcolm though lol. 

#brahms x reader #brahms heelshire x reader #brahms imagine #slasher x reader #slasher x you #slasher imagine

[shannaraisles]

The Rose In The Crown - Chapter 3

Summerday is always a day of joy, a day of marriages made and love affirmed. And for Ferelden, this Summerday is one to be remembered. King Alistair, ten years a king with no heir in sight, will finally marry his chosen bride.

Sequel to A Rose By Any Name.

Featuring the winners of my giveaway! Marguerite Dujardin appears courtesy of @puddle--wonderful; Namari Lavellan appears courtesy of @savvylittleminx; Kira Mahariel belongs to @agentkatie; Kallak Brosca appears courtesy of @ironbullsmissingeye; Eirlys Amell appears courtesy of @ladymdc; Maeve Aeducan appears courtesy of @solverne-02; and Solona Amell appears courtesy of @skyholdherbalist! Also, huge thank you to @inquisition-dragonborn, @ladymimz, @inquisitorsmabari, and @fade-touched-obsidian for helping me with the selections from the Chant of Light!

[Read on AO3]

Chapter 3

Princess Felicita Amalia Braulia Salome Campana of Antiva looked at her reflection, and barely knew herself.

Her raven-black hair had been left long for the most part, with only a simple braid crown encircling her head and woven with seed pearls to hold the curled mane out of her face. A simple string of pearls encircled her throat, a teardrop of ruby hanging from that string to grace her skin just above the swell of her breasts. Matching pearls adorned her ears with the glimmer of matching rubies. And the gown itself ...

The elves of Denerim had outdone themselves.

Despite the disgust of human tailors and seamstresses, the princess had insisted that her wedding garments be designed and made by the elves of Ferelden. After all, she was a human; the crown was being crafted by the surfacer dwarves of Ferelden;it was only right that the elves should have a hand in the making of their queen. The call had gone out across the land - skilled seamstresses from many alienages made the often treacherous journey to the capital to join their labor to those already hard at work on the gown the Antivan princess would wear to become a wife and queen. Everything they requested was provided, from Antivan satin to Nevarran silk thread, to soft white hide from Orlais, and fine ruby and salt crystal beads from Rivain. Alistair had been so fascinated by these requests that he had belatedly asked the elves to make his wedding garments as well, enthralled by the variety and intricacy of the work being done well below the generous budget he had insisted be set aside to pay for both the materials and the labor. Indeed, the excess would still be paid out - a generous, unexpected bonus for the elves who had put so much into the beauty they had created.

What Fabs now wore was a true masterpiece, the result of six weeks and forty elves' hard work. The chemise was sheer white silk; the stays constructed from layers of white silk brocade to create a stiffness that would support without overheating her in the latter hours of the celebration. Delicate silk stockings in crimson encased her legs to above the knee, fixed in place with embroidered ribbon garters; on her feet, fine-stitched slippers in soft white hide. But these were all details that were only for the princess and the seamstresses to know, intimate secrets of the wedding trousseau that others would never guess at - beautiful, but hidden by the glorious gown that covered them all.

A gown that bore echoes of Antiva in the full shoulders and fitted bands of the sleeves that flared at her wrists; a gown that embraced Ferelden in the snugly fitted bodice and the natural fall of a full skirt allowed to sway without the artificial plumping of petticoats so favored in Imperial circles. Ivory satin hugged the ample curve of her bosom and slender waist, flaring at her hips, embroidered in gold and silver silk with the royal mabari of Ferelden, the rose of Antiva, and the griffon of the Grey Wardens. Beads of ruby and salt-crystal accentuated the fitted bands of her sleeves and cuffs, and trimmed the long train that was yet to be affixed. The train itself was in matching ivory satin, long enough to skim the floor for several feet behind her, trimmed with those same sparkling precious beads, emblazoned with a single large golden mabari nestled in the petals of a ruby-red rose.

"Now then, highness, aren't you a picture?" Andra beamed at her mistress over her shoulder, fluffing the dark curls one last time before turning away to help Golda with the last piece.

A small hand inserted itself into Fab's palm, drawing her gaze down to Maria, who was to be her only bridesmaid. Indeed, the attendants for the bride were very small in number for a royal wedding - just Ciara and Maria. Anora had been asked, but had laughingly declined and, of course, the princess had not had the first idea that Marguerite would be there at all. Maria had been garbed in dusky rose pink, all silks and satins trimmed with gold, a basket of white rose petals waiting for her to carry down the aisle of the great hall.

"You look very pretty, princess," the little girl told her solemnly.

She squealed as Fabs suddenly knelt to wrap her up in a warm embrace, woman and child giggling together for a long moment.

"You look very pretty too, Maria," Fabs promised her in return. "Alistair will be so happy to see you."

"And I got to sit next to Ceri and Ciara, because there’s no room for me next to the big chairs," Maria said in a confident tone, nodding to herself. She had been drilled on the details of the ceremony many times over, just as Fabs and Alistair had themselves.

"Yes, little one. And the ceremony may be very boring, but there will be a party afterward," the princess assured her. "And Alistair and I have a present for our very special guest who is also family."

Maria beamed happily, hugging her arms about Fabs' neck once again. "And you're going away after?"

"Tomorrow morning, yes. But only for a week." She raised one long finger to tweak the little girl's nose affectionately. "So you only have a week to throw wild parties and build a zoo in our absence."

The giggle that erupted from Maria was enough to draw the attention of the rest of the little bridal party - Ciara and Fulgeno, the princess' father. Marguerite had shown amazing forbearance in sacrificing her own peace of mind to remove the mother of the bride before anyone started crying. The unexpected, but most welcome, Orlesian guest had been instrumental in keeping the bride from flying into a panic around breakfast-time, too. Indeed, Marguerite had spent the morning treating everyone in the princess' rooms like skittish, wayward animals that needed a firm hand to be calm, and surprisingly, it had worked. Thanks to her, there had been no tantrums, no tears, and - most importantly - no last-minute declarations that the bride could not go through with this. Fabs knew she was going to have to do something spectacular for her friend to thank her for this morning's work.

"Shall we go and find our flowers, Maria?" Ciara suggested, holding out a hand to the excited little girl.

Her answer was a cheery nod as her hand was seized. Maria was likely more excited about the wedding today than anyone else was, but no one minded that so much. It was a joy to see her smiling and happy, unafraid of the future ahead of her because it would not contain judgment and cruelty from those who were supposed to care for her any longer. Fabs rose as the two of them swept away in their own wedding finery, catching the nod from the steward at the door. It was time.

Her father, King Fulgeno of Antiva, stepped forward, laying his hands on her shoulders as he smiled at his daughter.

"You look every inch the rose, pequeña," he told her, the pride in his gaze warming her heart as she beamed in response. "Your Alistair is a very lucky man."

"Thank you, Papa."

She surged forward to embrace him once more, kissing his cheek as he chuckled. And for a moment, Fabs faltered. This was her last embrace with her father as his little girl, the last time she would be just his daughter. In just a few hours, she would be a wife, her first loyalty no longer to her father but to her husband. The thought carried more pain than she had thought it might. But Fulgeno seemed to know the moment that pain struck, drawing back to tap the end of her nose, as he had done so many times in her childhood.

"Ah, ah, pequeña," he told her warningly. "No tears. You have love - the love of your father, and the love of your husband. I can see no circumstance where we will ever ask you to choose between us. Now, stand straight for the last piece to be put in place."

Fabs laughed a little, glancing over her shoulder as Andra and Golda approached, their arms full of embroidered satin - the train that needed to be attached before she was permitted to show herself publicly. It was just a blessed relief that she would be able to take it off soon after the wedding; it was heavy.

"You always know what I am thinking, Papa," she accused him, straightening her back to allow better ease for her assistants to work.

Golda's hands gathered her hair carefully, and Andra settled the train at her shoulders, neatly pinning it in place with a pair of silver brooches - griffons, for her beloved Alistair's Grey Wardens. Both women stepped back, spreading the train over the floor, their smiles bright and proud not only of the woman who would soon be their queen, but of their honored role in preparing her for these moments.

"Espléndido," Fulgeno declared, his gesture taking in not only his daughter, arrayed in ivory, gold, and silver, but also the blushing ladies who had taken such pains to prepare her this morning.

"Thank you," Fab added, twisting to look at Andra and Golda. "Truly. I do not know how to begin to thank you."

"Just you have a happy day," Andra told her, Golda still being a little in awe of the princess who had brought so much sunshine into Denerim palace in just a few short months. "And next time I see you, I shall be so proud to call you your majesty."

"I hope I shall always make you proud," the princess answered softly, laughing as the two maids, elf and human, scoffed at the thought that she could ever disappoint them.

She turned back to her father, smiling at the vague incredulity in his eyes - servants in Antiva were certainly not as plain-spoken or forthright as they were in Ferelden. But he said nothing to embarrass the two women, glancing up as the steward opened the door. Fab straightened her shoulders, taking her father's arm as they moved toward the doorway and the wide staircase beyond. The train spread across the floor behind her for several feet, drifting down the stairs in her wake with only the barest of tugs against the brooches that held it secure to her shoulders. It truly was a masterpiece of tailoring.

The hum of voices within the Great Hall rose as they reached the ground floor antechamber, where Ciara and Maria were waiting. By tradition, the little bridesmaid was carrying a basket of rose petals, clearly looking forward to covering the aisle to the dais in them as she lead the procession. They had already anticipated the natural fear Maria might feel in walking through the Great Hall first, hence the fact that Anora and Callista were going to be clearly visible along the aisle. Having a couple of familiar friendly faces to focus on as she passed by would keep Maria from feeling overwhelmed before she reached the dais and Alistair, and could find her seat next to Ceri in the front row.

The steward bowed to the King of Antiva and his daughter. "With your permission, your majesty?"

Fulgeno smiled. "Let us begin."

Beyond the doors, heralds blew their fanfare trumpets, announcing the arrival of the bride. Fabs could hear the rustle as men and women rose from their seats to look back at the doors swinging open to reveal little Maria, ward of the crown of Ferelden, all but skipping forward, tossing handfuls of her rose petals ahead of herself as the gentle tone of the mixed minstrel band played a familiar Andrastian hymn. Moments later, Ciara followed, but all eyes remained turned toward the open doors, and the princess who was soon to become a queen.

Nerves settled over the bride in a gentle rush, bright color flushing her cheeks. Her fingers tightened on her father's arm, softening only when he covered her clenching grip with his other hand. Her murmured apology was gently deflected with a squeeze of his hand and another gentle smile, a last nod before they began to walk forward, traversing the first few steps to the central aisle before turning to face the grand dais and the worthies awaiting them there.

The sunlight poured in through the high set windows, lancing down in sharp rays of soft gold over the rich blue of the carpet that adorned the aisle itself, illuminating the king and his daughter as he escorted her toward her new life. A wide circle of that same golden sunlight shone down on the honor guard that stood at the foot of the steps to the dais - Grey Wardens, there to honor their brother on this rare day for one of their order. She had met them all the day before - Kira Mahariel, a Dalish elf whose red hair blazed in the sunlight; Kallak Brosca, a fierce-looking dwarf with a surprisingly gentle manner; Eirlys Amell, a quiet human mage who seemed to radiate calm; Maeve Aeducan, a former princess among dwarves, her well-earned confidence shining through; Solona Amell, another human mage, a little more warily withdrawn than her comrades; and Demelza Tabris, bright grin shining, murmuring her orders to her fellow Wardens. In a single motion, weapons were drawn and raised high, an arch of blades for the bride to pass beneath in order to reach her groom, their brother in arms.

And there he was, her Alistair, resplendent in crimson velvet trimmed with gold, his eyes fixed to hers as she made her way toward him. Her nerves faded away, soothed by the smile that made his handsome face stunning and urged an answering smile from her, bright and warm and loving, heedless of anyone who saw how much she adored this man who was about to make her his wife. She barely even noticed the crown on his head, barely heard the murmur of the nobility behind her as she and her father reached the honor guard of Wardens.

How had it come to this? What had she done to be so blessed as to gain the love of a good man who needed her love almost more than he desired it? To be invited to share his life in a role he had not been born to, to be welcomed into his heart almost without thought? Yet no matter how unworthy she might feel, Fabs knew Alistair loved her. She could see it in the glimmer of his earthen eyes, in the tilt of his smile; feel it in the gentle tremor of his touch as he took her hand to lead her up onto the dais, in the warmth of the kiss he pressed to her knuckles as she released a little of her faded nerves in a soft giggle.

"You are so handsome, mi amor," she whispered to him, gratified to see him blush to the tips of his ears as he grinned in delight at the compliment.

"You beat me to it," was his whispered complaint. "I was supposed to tell you how handsome you are." He blinked, realizing what he had said. "Beautiful. You're beautiful, not ... Maker's breath, why did I have to becoming a raving idiot now?"

Swallowing down her laughter behind her smile, Fab leaned into him, squeezing his hand. "You are yourself, my darling," she murmured, as the hymn came to a close. "There is no one else I would rather stand here with."

His answering grin was all she needed to whisk away the last of those nerves, to know that this was where she was meant to be. Her whole world was in that smile, that beaming expression of incredulous, loving delight that she was standing with him and about to make vows that would bind them together for life, oblivious to the faces watching them, the indulgent smiles on the faces of friends and family, the quiet respect from allies, the unspoken resentment from those who had originally had other plans for their king.

"Are we ready?" a soft voice asked from nearby.

Fabs blushed a warm shade of rose as she tore her eyes from the king of her heart, embarrassed to belatedly realize she was keeping the Divine waiting. Surprised, too, to find the First of Clan Lavellan standing with Divine Victoria, but pleased at this inclusion. Leliana's smile was forgiving as the couple before her straightened their expressions, turning a little more to face the woman who would join them in the Maker's eyes.

Chuckling, Alistair squeezed his bride's hands, nodding to the old friend before him. "Ready and waiting."

Leliana beamed a benevolent smile, raising her hands. Fabs felt the full attention of the entire hall turn to them, and the woman who held the Chantry in the palm of her hand.

"Brothers and sisters, we are gathered here to witness the joining in marriage of two good hearts, an alliance of like minds in the formal bonds of love. Love is the gift of the Maker, a force that binds us despite our differences. You have come together today so that Andraste may seal and strengthen your love in the presence of the Maker. Andraste, who is herself the Bride of the Maker, shall strengthen you both, that you may assume the duties of marriage in mutual and lasting fidelity."

Namari Lavellan then spoke from the Divine's shoulder, the lilt of her voice carrying with ease to drown out the few grumbles from the mostly human gathering.

"A good marriage must be created," she told them, speaking only to Fabs and Alistair, despite the hall full of people. "It is standing together and facing the world. It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow. It is not only marrying the right person - it is being the right partner. Love is a good beginning. The gods will smile upon it."

Fabs felt Alistair's pleasure at including a Dalish blessing in their wedding, and her own heart swelled with pride for the king who had simply asked a Dalish elf to bless his marriage, rather than asked for permission to do so from the many humans in his court who would have argued against it. Integration, racial and religious tolerance, an end to superficial division between peoples; these were all so close to his heart, a lesson learned in his few years as a Warden and brought over to his tenure as the King of Ferelden. No one within his borders need fear that their king did not care for them, no matter their race. It was simply one more reason to love the man beaming down at her in these moments, as the Divine's voice floated over their heads once again.

“In the name of the Maker, who brought us this world, and in whose name we say the Chant of Light, I offer the blessing of Andraste to this promised pair. As Andraste knew the love and duty of marriage to a mortal man, may you share in her faith and fidelity; and as she knew bliss as the Maker’s chosen Bride, may you, too, find joy in your union."

Before the eyes of the Fereldan nobility, as well as the unique guests invited from all walks of life, Divine Victoria took the hands of King Alistair Theirin and Princess Felicita Campana into her own grasp.

"Alistair, you have chosen to wed this woman in the eyes of mortal man. Will you swear by the Maker and Holy Andraste to honor her as your lawful wife, as long as you both shall live?”

Fabs let her gaze return to Alistair without even a moment of hesitation, unable to disguise her smile as he turned her hand in his grasp, pressing her palm over his heart. She could feel the steady beat within his chest, the way it thudded just a little faster as he drew in his breath to speak.

"I swear," he declared, "unto the Maker and Holy Andraste to love this woman the rest of my days.”

Somewhere behind him, Fabs heard Maria let out a cheer, tilting her head to let the child see her laughing smile as she shushed herself in acute embarrassment at having broken the reverential silence. Ceri was chuckling as the little girl hid her face against the Kirkwaller's shoulder, the ripple of amusement sweeping through the hall quietly before Leliana raised her hands for silence.

"Felicita, you have chosen to wed this man in the eyes of mortal man. Will you swear by the Maker and Holy Andraste to honor him as your lawful husband, as long as you both shall live?”

What could she say? Fabs' heart was throbbing in her chest as she looked into Alistair's eyes, never more certain of anything in her life than she was of the decision she had made that had brought her to this moment in time. The official words felt strange and unwieldy in her mouth, but they were the only ones she could use in this time and space. There would be time enough for softer words ... a lifetime, in fact.

"I swear unto the Maker and Holy Andraste," she said, feeling her voice tremble in the ringing stillness around them, "to love this man for the rest of my days."

There was a pause as they held one another's gaze, knowing that there was a recitation looming that could easily become utterly unintelligible to anyone listening if they didn't concentrate. Fabs could feel herself trying not to giggle, though whether it was nerves or the sheer release of knowing that they were almost there urging that laughter to rise, she couldn't say. But she could see Alistair's eyes dancing, his lips twitching, and she knew he was having just as much trouble as she was staying composed. It was all so serious and solemn, a far cry from the couple they made away from the eyes of the masses.

Thank goodness for the Divine. Leliana squeezed their hands sharply, pulling Fabs, at least, back from the brink of embarrassing giggles, giving the couple their cue to complete their vows together.This, at least, had been rehearsed - these words spoken in tandem, clear and calm, in matching cadence.

"For You are the fire at the heart of the world; And comfort is only Yours to give."

At Alistair's back, Fergus stepped forward, offering a band of gold engraved with roses into his king's free hand as Leliana released her grip on the couple. Fabs swallowed, her smile flickering brightly in response to his as the cool metal found a home at her knuckle to the accompaniment of his own chosen words, taken from the Chant of Light itself.

"My hearth is yours, my bread is yours, my life is yours." And though they may have been the sacred words of the Chant, on Alistair's lips, in this moment, they belonged to him alone.

As his hands encompassed hers, pulling her closer, Fabs couldn't help the surge of soft delight, eager for what now would come. From the corner of her eye, she saw Divine Victoria raise her hands in benediction.

“I bear witness, in the name of the Maker, and Blessed Andraste, whom He loves, that these vows are binding and lawful,” Leliana declared, and in her tone was a challenge to everyone here present. If anyone dared to raise an objection to the marriage completed before them, they would have to go through the Divine to do it. "May no one seek to tear them down, for they are made in faith and love.”

She lowered her hands, and for a moment, all was still. Only the small group on the dais could hear the soft benediction spoken in indecipherable elvhen, calling down a blessing on a royal pair who truly wanted to take the danger out of the lives of their subjects. As Namari's voice died away, Leliana's smile brightened.

"Your majesty ... you may kiss your wife."

"Are you sure you wouldn't rather do that for me?" Alistair asked with a playful glimmer, beaming as Divine Victoria spluttered out a very inappropriate laugh and had to turn away for a moment.

Fabs poked him with a low laugh, rolling her eyes as he chuckled. She felt his hands slide to her back beneath the hang of the train, her own curling her fingers to the soft velvet of his sleeves as he bent his head to hers. Smiling lips touched smiling lips, and she felt, more than heard, the sudden eruption of polite applause and dignified cheering in the hall. And beyond that, an echo from outside the palace itself, as the crowds in the square took up the sound of celebration with greater enthusiasm. The King was finally a married man. Very soon, they would meet their new Queen.

Alistair's lips moved as he gently drew back from their first married kiss, his breath warm against her mouth as he whispered, "I love you, Fabs."

She beamed up at him, certain she must be glowing with happiness. "Te amo, mi amor. My lord and king."

He groaned at that teasing addition to her own declaration, kissing the tip of her nose as she giggled. "Just you wait," he warned. "A whole day of wearing the crown is going to give you a headache as bad as mine used to be. You have to train your head not to feel it."

"Oh, I am very glad I shall have you to train me," she countered in amusement, watching as he realized he was preaching to the choir, somewhat. His expression of slow, sheepish comprehension was adorable.

"Princess," he said, nodding. "Right. You know about that."

"Only a little, my darling."

She leaned close to kiss his cheek, drawing in a slow breath. They were married. She was Alistair Theirin's wife; he was her husband. And in just a few moments ...

She glanced up at a scraping sound to her left. The coronation throne was being set down by a pair of guardsmen on the dais, in front of the traditional thrones themselves. Others were coming forward with velvet cushions on which were set the queen's ring and the newly crafted crown, and quite suddenly Fabs knew that this was real. In a matter of minutes, she would be Queen of Ferelden, crowned by her husband and raised to his rank, a ruler in her own right.

Alistair seemed to sense her moment of realization, squeezing her hand gently as he turned to lead her to the coronation throne. The Divine had stepped away, no longer an active part of this ceremony but simply a witness. Namari, too, had stepped down from the dais. The Grey Wardens stood at the foot of the dais, not subjects but willing witnesses to the crowning of a queen.

As she sat slowly on the uncomfortable throne, Fabs' gaze found Marguerite and Josephine in the crowd for the briefest of moments, biting down a laugh at the encouraging nods and smiles her friends threw toward her. She flicked a glance toward Maria, finding the little girl holding tight to Ceri and Ciara's hands, her expression intense as she watched Alistair pick up the ring from the purple cushion presented to him. Across the hall, the silence fell once more, all eyes turning to the crowning of a queen.

"Felicita," he intoned, and she knew in an instant that Anora had been rehearsing him for this. "Do you solemnly promise and swear to govern the people of Ferelden, regardless of race or creed, in accordance with the laws and statutes of this land? Will you, in your power, give justice and mercy to the supplicant in all judgments? And will you serve this land at my side, as wife and queen, and guiding hand?"

She raised her chin, looking out over the hall, still able to hear the jubilant cheers of the people gathered outside celebrating the marriage only just sealed with a kiss. The oath was solemn and binding, yet it was not a difficult oath to swear. She believed in Alistair's vision for his country, in the equality of all the races if they could possibly encourage it. It would be an honor to help guide Ferelden to a new era of prosperity and tolerance.

"I solemnly swear so to do."

She raised her right hand as he reached down, feeling the significantly heavier weight of the queen's royal signet ring find its resting place against the knuckle of her second finger - a weight she would have to grow accustomed to over the months and years to come. Alistair's callused fingers gripped hers for a moment, drawing her eyes to his in time to catch the reassuring flicker of his wink before he turned away once more to lift the crown above her head. A more delicate version of the king's crown, the surface dwarves of Ferelden had done themselves proud with the sparkling gold and exquisitely polished rubies that Alistair now held aloft.

"Felicita Theirin, in the name of the Maker and Andraste, before the Divine and the eyes of the court, I crown you Queen of Ferelden," the king declared, gently setting the crown onto the braid that looped her head and had been settled there just for that purpose.

He took her hand once more, raising her to her feet, bending to brush a tender kiss to her lips once more, wreathed in smiles. They had made it through the ceremonies. Now all that remained was the celebrations. With a last kiss to her forehead, Alistair turned to present Fabs to her new court. The herald's staff thumped on the flagstones, calling for a last moment of silence.

"All rise, and honor King Alistair and Queen Felicita of Ferelden. Long may they reign!"

#the rose in the crown #alistair theirin #princess fabs #that tag is going to change with the next chapter #alistair x female oc #alistair x fabs #THE WEDDING #FINALLY #ceremony #fluff

[hansenfox6-blog]

How To Pick The Perfect Lingerie For Your Professional Persona

Have the naughty schoolgirl? The irresistible seductress? The smart tramp? Because fantasy fulfillment is job requirement 1 when you work typically the adult entertainment industry, the persona you present can be a hugely important part of the things you do. If you want staying the kind of provider whose persona shines from the top of your visit the tip of your toe (and, more importantly, in between), check out these awesome lingerie options from my favorite purveyor of all things fine and lacy: Journelle. For The Girl Next Door/Innocent We all know the type: big eyed, simple hair, little make-up. The Girl Next Door could be the sweetheart that every grown man wanted to bang when he was a teenager, but just wasnt cool enough/smooth enough/whatever enough to seal the deal. Underneath her cutoff shorts and tiny tee, this sweetie is just determining what sexy means. The Eberjey Maritime Stripes Bralet and Hipster combine to make the most beneficial summertime set, complete with a bit of lace to show shes not a little girl anymore. If it's more of a flirty sundress kind of day, the Esther Chemise from Eberjey extra excellent option. Made from a lightweight, smooth material, this is little number will look as sweet when one strap is falling your shoulder mostly will crumpled through to your floor. For The Hipster Chick Sites like Suicide Girls are proof of the fact how the alternative, artsy, glasses-wearing, tattoo-covered badass chica is definitely far more popular now than she was in high school. Method to all the guys were all just intimidated; who is aware? Regardless, if youre the type who started working to pay your way through art school and isnt scared of the tattoo needle, this is absolutely the best escort persona in which you. The La Fee Verte Silk Crepe Printed Bralette could just as be easily worn underneath as a famous Apparel tank or as a top in its own right. The silk crepe material is patterned with a totally 80s style print that will make your male friends think edgy, while the matching ruffled panties add a great flirty touch. If youre looking for something thats only for the bedroom, consider the Zinke Daisy Sweater. Any hipster girl worth her salt has at least one romper in the closet, but simply the coolest of you will can pull off one made purely of black tie. Think you have what it takes? For The Bombshell Marilyn Monroe. Veronica Square. Bettie Page. Escorts in Long Island . Whichever classic lusty lady you style yourself after, theyve all got one main thing in common: Nobody can beat those curves. Combining an antique beauty with undeniable sexiness, the Bombshell knows exactly when to throw a come-hither watch over her shoulder as she struts her stuff in five-inch red pumps. Her form-fitting dresses show off a tiny waist, buoyant chest, and hips to die for, but underneath them may be the the fun really starts off. For hydrogen-powered cars are extremely in Super Busty Escorts, check out the Gossard Revolution Staylo Bra, which provides serious support and lift without sacrificing style. Your girls in order to on display and in order to come out and play when youre rocking is made up of. One of my personal, ultimate, all-time favorites may be the Bordelle Angela With Structured Cups. Ive been lusting after this beauty and since the first time I laid eyes over it in the Journelle window off of Union Square in Chicago and I guarantee that anyone who sees you in it will not be willing to pick his jaw up off the floor, Roger to Jessica Rabbit form. With panels of elastic that a person just the correct amount of peek-a-boo, a form-fitting shape that hugs those gorgeous curves, molded cups providing excellent support, too built-in suspender for your stockings, your male friends wont consider getting that gold zipper down fast enough. For The Dominatrix You, my friend, find walk the fine line between sexy and deep. Since we usually associate female sexuality with comfortable femininity, the Dominatrix is very particular about expressing her sexuality in wherein is dominating while simultaneously female. A classic corset can be a necessary part of any Dommes wardrobe. View the Playful Promises Vintage Stitch Corset while using the wasp-waist-creating tie back because nothing says powerful woman like structured black smooth silk. For people who love buckles and straps (and lets be real: who doesnt?), I have two fabulous suspenders you. One is the Bordelle Hourglass Cincher, which outlines your curves while simultaneously suggesting the clasps and ropes that are an essential part of the you accomplish that well. Bordelle even offers a more classic harness, but with a very special Domme twist: its made from high-shine leather, 18k gold, and has onyx rivets. It gives removable suspenders, so may choose to put it without or with the sexiest black sheer stockings inside your repertoire. The last piece I have for you lovely ladies is the Valinia Body, also from Bordelle. This piece might be a work of art, featuring Bordelles signature elastic straps with gold closures, a panel of ochre-colored silk having a hand-sewn lace overlay combined with a gold zipper closure, gold clasp removable garters, and a gold clasp that unhooks the thong in the back. At $1,328, this is by far one of the most expensive garment of them all, but thats right. One of your individual things about being a Domme could be the Im sure you have lots of friends who are prepared to buy it for . So there you have it, ladies, four classic personas such as the sun-kissed girl adjacent to the whip-wielding Dominatrix. Whichever persona you decide on, Journelle has something for particular person. Some of their pieces are a bit pricey but all you have to do is remind yourself of two things: 1. Youre worth the house. 2. You could always produce a wishlist.

[rikrakyarnncrafts]

New Book – Everyday Wraps

One of the hardest things about working on our exclusive collections is keeping them a secret for so long. I’ve been so excited about our new Everyday Wraps collection for months and now it’s finally available for everyone!

This gorgeous collection of 14 shawl patterns features yarn I have an abundance of – sock yarn! While I do love knitting socks, sometimes I want a project to show off the colors in a larger piece (and not one hidden by my shoes).  With swaths of garter stitch with small doses of texture and simple lace patterns, this collection is a dream come true for me – and I think you will love it as well.

Of course I have some favorites! I’ve already begun my first of many projects from this book – the cover shawl Stratosphere by the marvelous Claire Slade.

This has all of my favorite things about a shawlette – an interesting construction, a chance to play with multiple colors, and plenty of garter stitch and stripes.  Best of all, it uses my favorite yarn Hawthorne (currently on sale!). I dug through my stash and went with Astoria Tonal, Cully Multi, and Compass Kettle for my color choices, but honestly, I think this project would look lovely in so many variations.

Next on my list is another project that also uses Hawthorne – the Junction Shawl by Tetiana Otruta.

This pattern is perfect for showing off Hawthorne Speckle, with simple lace and a solid contrast color. I don’t knit much lace but this pretty eyelet stitch seems to be one I can handle (plus the pattern is both charted and written out, which makes it easy to follow). I’m picturing using City Lights Speckle with Blackbird Kettle for sophisticated shawl to wear out on the town.

For a true one skein project, I love the Alyce Scarf by Ann Albe.

Finding projects for Stroll Gradient can be a challenge since it needs to be big enough for the entire skein – small accessories such as hats and cowls likely only use about half the skein so you’d miss out on one of the colors and while socks would use the entire thing, you’d have 2 different colored socks. So the Alyce Scarf is perfect – it works up quickly with a mix of stockinette and garter, with some small eyelets thrown in at the end. The finished project is a nice soft wrap, great for throwing on over a top when the office air conditioner runs a little cold or wrapping around your neck for a little extra warmth when it’s chilly outside.  While I love the color we knit it up in (Stardust), I’d love to see one knit up in Summer Camp for a bit more a punch of brightness.

These 3 are just the tip of the iceberg – there are still 11 more lovely patterns to choose from in this collection. It’s a great time to pick up this book for your shelf –  it’s currently 40% off! (not to mention the Monthly Yarn Sale on all lines of Hawthorne too!). You can also get the eBook or each pattern by itself as well. I can’t wait to start seeing some finished projects of these designs!

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[rikrakyarnncrafts]

We

It’s finally here – the woolen garment high season. While our catalog is making its way to your mailbox, we thought we’d take a moment to share what’s new for us this winter. With three new pattern collections, new and returning yarns, and some fabulous new organizational tools, there’s no shortage of inspiration to be had. So cozy up, and read on!

  New Collections + 40% off ALL Books!

We’re excited to share our three new winter collections with you, which we think offer a fun variety of projects for various skill levels and interests. Plus, all books are currently 40% off!

  Accents

More than just an afterthought, accessories play a big role in our wardrobes, allowing us to make a personal statement while remaining ultra-cozy. Accents offers seventeen patterns to choose from, and you’ll delight in these colorful, modern designs and straightforward stitches.

Take, for example, the Midwinter Shawl. This generously-sized triangular garment is a simple project perfect for beginning knitters while providing a fun, easy knit for those with a bit more experience. Knit in Wool of the Andes, this shawl will keep you warm in style, even on the coldest of days.

  Crossings

Echoing the thick braids of highland shawls or the close twists of a fisherman’s pullover, the twelve sweaters and wraps in the Crossings collection reach back across years of knitting tradition with historical motifs and classic construction.

The intricate panels featured in the Plaiter Sweater are inspired by the work of corn husk plaiters. Knit in Simply Wool Worsted with traditional two stitch braids, rope cables, and single stitch lattice cables, the weaving lines of this garment mimic the interlocking fibers of the hats and baskets of that bygone craft.

  Embrace Crochet

With modish textures and sumptuous appeal, the accessories and home decor pieces in the Embrace Crochet collection are destined to add charm and allure to your everyday life. Indulge in the sophisticated stitches of these seven projects, including stylish cowls, cold weather staples, home accents, and more!

Rows of bobble stitches in a simple chevron shape are the highlight of the Willowridge Scarf. Finished with a single crochet edging and tassels at each end, this highly textured scarf knit in Wool of the Andes Superwash Bulky is perfect for your next outdoor adventure.

  New Tools for a New Year

Stash that swift, stow those needles, store those charts! Bring some order to your knitting life with our exclusive new cases, available in three colors.

  Free Patterns

We’re certainly in a cozy winter mood here, because we’ve got two blanket patterns for you – just perfect for those long winter nights!

  The Connor Throw is knit in a beautiful lace motif with a garter stitch edge.

The Love Triangles Throw consists of richly textured hexagons made with puffs, front post double crochet, and double crochet.

  Well that about wraps it up!

Oh wait.

What about those new and returning yarns, you might ask? They’re on their way, and we’ll tell you more as soon as they’re available. So stay tuned, and stay warm out there!

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