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withoneheadlight · 3 years

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The kitchen’s Steve’s favorite part of the house.

It has this odd shape. Trapezoid. “Fuck, Stevie, so goddamn weird”. Doesn’t make sense in a, on the other hand, perfectly rectangular house (or, well, it does but, they’ll only find out about that later). The cabinets are ceiling-high. The tiles of the wall white and cracked under the repeating pattern of light mint-green-stemmed, yellow-petaled lilies. The whole backdoor is painted on that same shade Billy calls Ripe banana dreams, both so terribly old-fashioned and fiercely cute none of them says a word about repainting it. There’s a wooden piece, built into the farthest end of the counter. It looks disgustingly juicy and mercilessly stabbed when they move in, but Billy insists on keeping it, and sanding, and treating, and varnishing it. Manages to get it back up on shape because “Better than anyone, darling you should know what a little touch of class can make”. And for more than two weeks straight the only goal of his life is to learn to cut vegetables at high speed because “I have to live up to this level of professionalism. Impress our most un-impressionable guests”

(And, to Steve’s surprise –and probably hers– when she finally deigns to pay them a visit, his mom is, in fact, pretty much impressed.)

He learns how to make good casserole. Tries his luck with Mexican and Italian. Fails miserably with Japanese. Will never-ever admit it but, he loves it when flour ends up staining every single surface, making the biggest mess around himself when he bakes. Steve knows why it is. It’s a shared feeling. Floats up till it reaches the ceiling and bounces back down to them, heavy with the warm smell of cooking pie and cinnamon. Tastes docile and tamed like “Maybe not so much vanilla next time. Whaddaya think, babe?.” Tastes savage and daring, like the overwhelming tang of freshly squeezed lemon lingering on Billy’s tongue, when he crowds Steve against the fridge and kisses him, nibbles a shuddering laugh out of him “How the fuck are you able to even think about putting your mouth near that thing, Hargrove?. That was––ugh. That was disgusting”, “Well you know me, whatever it takes to make you squirm” leaving Steve with absolutely no option but lick the sugary dough stain over his cheek to “Cover up that foul flavor” and maybe because he wants to make Billy squirm a little too.

It’s a heart-warming, welcoming feeling. Like the vivid smells of green tomatoes and parsley and mustard sauce. Like the taste of love on Billy’s lips. The way he loses his breath when Steve kisses the sugary flavor into Billy’s mouth with his:

This place smells like home, tastes like home. Like finally, finally. Home.

It’s Billy’s favorite place, too. But Steve doesn’t think it’s just because of that. But also because maybe,

maybe.

He has also noticed that–

There’s this particular, particular moment. It happens around seven on autumns, right when the day starts to fade. It happens between six and six past twenty-eight on winters, and holds the sleepy cheeks of the newborn tulips on Steve’s garden till they fall asleep on springs, sun already sinking behind the horizon by the time both hands of the clock meet over the spiral of the eight, pointing towards infinity. And then grows bigger and bigger and bigger from there, flooding into summer: the golden sunlight seeping through the wide, double-paned window facing the backyard in an oblique angle, making the yellow flowers of the tiles look like they’re re-blooming in gold.

It’s the moment the day turns into a fire.

It’s their favorite moment in time. And in this particular, particular day of July, it happens at ten past nine.

Billy is making Spaghetti Carbonara. The kitchen is damp with the rich smells coming out of the boiling water. Mushrooms and oregano, black pepper and lime. A song is cooing at them from the radio, the beat of the drums a boneless memory of that one echoing around the quarry on faraway almost-night on a faraway July. Water rippling under the quiet sigh of the breeze. Trees cutting the liquid rays in asymmetric halves.

Billy takes off the apron. Turns the stove down.

Reaches out to Steve, fingers wavering come, come, come.

To me. Come to me. “C’mon, Harrington. Do I scare you or what?“

He has this way of looking at Steve that makes the space between them narrow, narrow: the whole unknown world. And aseptic, non-lived-in flat in downtown Florida. This tiny, tiny town. A mysteriously-shaped kitchen––

“¿Can I have this dance?”

Steve walks to him, takes his hand.

––Their bodies, pressed flush.

Inside his chest, Steve’s heart is running.

(“Can I at least have this dance, before we say goodbye?”

Mazzy Star was playing. The corner of Billy’s eye felt wet where his skin brushed against the corner of Steve’s mouth. They danced till the daylight faded, till there were teardrops falling from the night sky.

“Billy, I don’t have to––”

“Don’t, pretty boy. Don’t say it. I’ll make you stay if you do. And I can’t do that”)

They made lovelovelove on the back of Billy’s car.)

In this light, they fell in love, they fell apart. Ran away. Ran back.

Steve nudges at Billy’s chest, makes him move backward till he’s far enough to tug, draw him in between their tangled arms, hands intertwined. Steve curls himself around Billy’s back, noses at the warmth trapped between his curls. He smells like BillyandSteve, like this home, like past, like future. Like us.

Steve whispers in his ear. Three words. Billy’s neck curves towards him. An instinct. Tickled by their warmth. Steve kisses the curve of his ear. Tugs the collar of his shirt aside, bites where shoulder meets neck and up, up.

“Easy, Prom King” Billy teases, grins at him tender and wild. Knows when to use the one that gets Steve every time “Or you’re gonna make me think we’ll become picture-perfect from this magical moment onwards. A bunch of kids. White fences. You know, the whole shebang”

(Billy crashed the Camaro into a tree in the winter of two thousand and fourteen. Had left the house in a frenzy. Something happened Max wouldn’t talk about. But she was scared, so she had called,

“Find him. Please.. Make sure he’s alright”

When Steve found him, Billy was in the middle of the Brookville road, feet stumbling on the twin yellow lines, following them nowhere. So weary, so impossibly small like this: head hanging, arms wrapped around himself. A crooked shape, carrying the weight of the shadows the tall pine trees cast on his back.

So unlike him.

Steve stopped the car at his side, engine oozing steam, shaking in the icy mid-May air “Billy” he said. Low. Careful. Careful. Billy’s eyes looked wet in the moon-silver night, pupils blown, deceivingly calm, “What are you doing? This is dangerous” And Billy’s spine had bent even lower, forearms finding rest on the window frame. Leveling with Steve. Looking wasted, looking tired, but still, he flashed a grin at him, teeth-shark white, never going down if he wasn’t going down swinging. And Steve–– hadn’t known at the moment, but the blood staining his cheek, the screaming-purple mark around his eye.

Those weren’t from the crash.

“I was sleepwalking, Harrington” he said, voice dry, laugh harsh. Shrugged “Waiting for a lucky strike”)

“What does it make you think that’s not what I’m aiming for?”

(When he took Billy to his house Max was already there. Had sneaked out. “Neil will kill you if he finds out,” Billy said and she nodded, white knuckles peaking red with how hard she was gripping the handler of her bike, and Steve hadn’t seen her cry before, not ever, but her eyes were swollen and wet and,

“Are you––”

“I’m alright, kiddo. You know me. I’m always alright”

And the lie sat heavy, between them. Two lies, covering the truth. Poorly stitched. But Max had called Steve for help, so that’s what he did. Help. Sent her back home. Took care of Billy’s face. Billy’s hands. Nodded at those same lies, let them do their work while taking care of wounds he didn’t know, back then, couldn't have been for a crash. Made him spend the night.

Billy still hadn't woken up when Steve left the next day, leaving food and a note on the nightstand ‘I’ll be back soon. Stay’.

Retraced Billy’s steps down the yellow lines splitting the forest in half. To find it.

The Camaro wasn’t done yet. Howled like a wounded beast under Steve’s touch, but stayed together all the way to Donny’s garage. And Steve paid for the repairs. Covered it all up. Max has said “His dad can’t know, Steve. Can’t know. If he finds out he will--” and steve was starting to put two and two together. To realize some billy was, maybe, running away from something. Someone. When he crashed his car.

Woke Billy up when the hands of the clock met over the spiraling infinity of the eight. Seventeen hours straight of sleep and still looking like he could use a lifetime. Told him “The car will be ready in two or three days. ‘Til then, you stay'' covered his mouth with his hand. Didn't let him complain “And If whatever happened last night happens again, you take it and you run. Back here. And you stay again, ok?”

Two weeks later, Billy showed up at his door. Lit him a cigarette. Offered to teach him how to fight.

“I cannot give you back your money, but I know you don’t need that”

Made him laugh.

They spent almost the whole summer together, after that. Some days. Most nights.

Wasting time. Fighting. Joking. Driving.

Falling.

No ‘what ifs’. No promises. Just,

“Leave the light on if you can’t sleep, pretty boy. If I manage to sneak out of the Old fuck, I’ll pick you up. Promise I won’t stop kissing you until dawn. Gotta make up for what you paid for that ca, uh?”

Because Steve was gonna leave. Wasn’t gonna throw a single glance behind his back.

That was the plan.

And he did. He did. But––)

He spins Billy out. Tugs him back. When their chests bump, his laugh bursts, bubbles up. Weightless. Happy. Because all that matters to him, to them, it’s between these four irregular walls now.

And God this, this, is Steve’s favorite part.

(–ended up coming back running, hoping the love would re-stitch itself as he followed the road’s yellow lines.

Hoping Billy was the one letting his light on this time.)

Because the sun’s gonna keep on shining. They can keep on dancing in here, in their weird trapezoidal kitchen (in their house, in their home), for as long as they want. Hearts touching. Lips brushing. Bodies swaying, spinning, cutting through the golden light.

#harringrove #and #this is the end #!!#i know is not too goo but i'm happy i finished #it #and also #i wanted to have something for this #1 year anniversary so :D #thank you again fandom #i wouldn't have make it this far without you #also! ns*w anon. i don't know if your're still around but #i published this part for you long ago #and it my head its now for you so <3 #xharringrove #xfluffy

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magicalsalamander · 5 years

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Opal Eyes of the White Fang

Pairing▹ BTS Jungkook ⇆ Reader

Words ▹7.0 K

Warning▹ rated mature; Depictions of traumatic events, blood, witchcraft inaccuracies, explicit language, and explicit themes.

Summary▹Jungkook, a Gryffindor with a soft spot for Beast, Beings, and Sprits, is a Magizoologist that works for the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures in the Beasts Division. However, the ignorant image he built up as a child about the department began to ware after years of working in the department; he hated the strict laws that restricted him from truly helping out all beast. Especially, because he’s half-giant, and he’s known how the law wasn’t always in creatures favors. In secret, he created a group called C.7.A (Clause 7 Army), to save Beast, Beings, and Sprits who couldn’t be protected under the department. But what happens one night when Clause 7 discovers something with opal eyes?

A/N: My first piece in four months, where did the time go? I hope you enjoy this first chapter. I apologize for the errors but know I’ll correct them soon. I was unexpectedly crunched for time, so please forgive me. The hippogriff caduceus (C7A symbol) divider indicates a mix of both characters speaking. Thank you for reading!

Masterlist | Next Chapter

After the smoke had extinguished, the lingering smell of rich oak permeated the air for a split second before the howling wind carried it away. Six cloaked figures moved deliberately as they pasted themselves against the brick wall feeling each rivet and bump of the bricks. Their black cloaks reflected the world around them seamlessly blending into the darkness of the alleyway. They made haste between the tall buildings, their feet silent on the asphalt, careful of any stray puddles and light beams despite their obscure cloaks.

As the shadows crept towards the alley’s opening nearing the moist pavement they slowed to a halt. The being at the front held up his hand, index and middle crossed, as he inspected the street. His eyes scanned the buildings that have seen time pass into modernism and wither its old concepts. The single functioning lamppost doused the freshly rained charcoal asphalt with its dim lighting; no shadow disturbed it, but the howling wind still sung chilling promises. The hollow shops were closed for the night, not a single soul disturbed the street, but no one could be sure about lingering spirits if they had awaken yet.

Just as Taehyung was about to untwist his middle and index a lone person apparated from a shop’s door. They continuously walked as they materialized, opening up their umbrella as they stepped down the stoop of the shop. They appeared from out their door, the door didn’t open, and the rain had long stopped.

They all smiled to themselves, they weren’t going to have to split up and search each shop, the target was blaringly red. Rumor confirmed, magic was there.

The six of them waited with bated breath awaiting for another being, but the coast finally seemed clear. Taehyung untangled his fingers with the clear to go-ahead. At the back of the group, Jungkook, pulled down his mask to speak to the rest, “Remember we’re in the muggle world and this place is just a rumor, don’t hesitate, don’t cause suspicion. Clear mind.” He pulled back up the black mask and only his burning eyes signaled the final go ahead to his team.

From the place the man with the umbrella had left, the six swirled through the air as they teleported and they apparated in front of the shop with a pop. Each wizard held up their wand the second they landed: one pointed the wand towards the security camera cutting the feed, the three other worked on the spell casted over the door and two kept watch. When Namjoon figured out the spell he was able to counter it, holding his wand to the knob and whispering the counter under his breath. The knob collapsed off and all of them remained complacent awaiting with hearts in their throats. When there wasn’t a sound inside, they pushed forward and hurried into the shop.

The shop was full of antiques, ones that were from the same era as the building itself. They all treaded carefully, who knew if one of these objects held a curse, in fact, the hair rising on their arms was a confirmation that at least one thing was.

“Are you sure this place is trafficking Beast? It looks like a hotspot for your grandma.” Hoseok shot the question at Jungkook.

Jungkook eyes roamed the shop, “House elves aren’t known to lie when grateful.”

“Namjoon why’d you have to break it, you’re smart enough to know how to not do that.” Taehyung picked up the knob and casted his own spell and the mechanical parts began coming back together as if nothing happened.

Namjoon sucked in his cheeks, “Could you have gotten us in though?”

Hoseok, the manager of the operation shushed them all then whispered, “You guys feel that?”

Jungkook could feel it, the magic in the floorboards, this place wasn’t an antique shop for the muggles as it seemed. The source of all the magic seemed to grumble from the back of the store. He stood in front of the group, “Don’t move.” Jungkook lowered his mask and lifted his hands around his mouth, “Appare Vestigium.” Specks of gold glittered around the room but remained heavy on footprints leading towards the back of the shop. Jungkook ducked avoiding beams, his tall stature had him nearly grazing the ceiling as he moved towards the source. They all followed along, weaving through furniture, figurines and old signs. Jungkook stopped at a gold covered door where the golden footsteps stopped. A red and white sign sat dead center stating employees only. He held his wand tight as his other hand reached for the door knob and pushed it open. The door slammed against a shelving shaking the cleaning supplies, it was just a storage room.

“What if the owner just bring in weird antiques and doesn’t know they’re magic. It could just be a storage—.”

Jungkook’s brows furrowed cutting off Hoseok, he knew the guy was just scared, “It’s not.” He closed the door then turned to Namjoon, “Do you think you could get this door too?”

Namjoon stepped up to the door and tapped it with his wand. The end lighting up a heated purple causing Namjoon to hum deeply. “It’s got a stronger seal on it than the entrance.” Just as Jungkook had suspected it was just like the entrance. Namjoon turned towards them all, “Step back, at least seven paces.“ They complied as he paced by the door three times repeating softly, “Reveal the Beast, reveal the Beings, reveal the Spirts you hold secret. Aparecium! ” Namjoon whipped his wand at the door sending a strong bolt of purple at the sign. The words morphed and the entire door morphed from its teal painted wooden state into a metal butcher’s door. Namjoon stepped forward cautiously and tried the level and depressed it down and pushed into it but the door wouldn’t open.

Yoongi shielded behind Jungkook sighed, but really everyone was compared to the half-giant. The man pushed past him and shoved Namjoon to the side. He held out his wand casting a jet stream of light that zapped the lever right off. Jungkook huffed throwing his hands in the air, “Yoongi…discretion, we discussed this.”

Yoongi scoffed, “This was faster.”

Jimin unhooded himself, pushing himself through to stand in the threshold, “Guys…look.”

Their short bickering ended as the door slowly creaked open but it wasn’t a storage closet anymore. The darkness seemed everlasting as the back of the place couldn’t be see with the naked eye. Each member brought out their wands knowing what only was next. They had to go in. Jungkook stood at the threshold, yes, darkness was uninviting but he didn’t mind trespassing. “Stay with me.”

The tips lit up one by one as flashlights as they all moved into the dark as a clump engulfing themselves in the darkness. He could hear the quickened breathes of a few of the members. Hoseok being the one making the most sounds. Their footsteps echoed around them, they couldn’t tell where they were going but as long as they moved forward they knew something would come of it.

Quietness, it was so quiet.

Almost too quiet.

A high pitched hiss erupted from the darkness and Hoseok chocked on a scream sending the as Yoongi whipped around pointing his wand into the face of a creature in a cage. They intensified their lights unveiling towers, rows upon rows of cages that were stacked high to the ceiling. The short building was nothing but an illusion. It was designed much like the Hall of Prophecy.

Yoongi spoke thoughts of everyone, “What the hell?” They all took cautious steps into the “Zoo”, the creatures at the edge of the rows eyes were wide or narrowed either in fright or detest. Animals of all kinds, even muggle creatures were amongst the creatures in cages. Their eyes spoke desperation to Jungkook as he stopped to inspect a few, they were desperate for whatever nightmare they’ve witness to be over. The rumor was true, the house elf wasn’t lying. He lowered his head, covering his face with his brown hair, anger inside him boiled, how could anyone treat creatures like this?

Taehyung tugged on Jungkook’s coat to keep them all moving. It felt like forever, passing at least twenty rows, a laboratory of some sort came into light. Various tables had toiling solutions, potions, and things in formaldehyde were about. An aquarium of bowtruckles were wandering, while a few were chasing the insects in their home. Their leaves were wilted, many of them were a white-yellow instead of a ripe lime color. Acromantula Venom, Baneberry, Dragon Claw in its original form, and Iguana blood were stacked in great quantities on the shelves.

“Jeez, who’s the sick person that runs this place? Do you think the human that owns this place knows this exists?” Taehyung leaned forward inspecting the bowtruckles before it snapped at him.

“I doubt it, but the few I’ve run into…well—Muggles are a suspicious bunch,” Namjoon suggested staring at the hardware plasma screens. Large machines were running vials of unknown substances while the computer connected to them displayed data that was undecipherable to the untrained eye. Papers that were carelessly left out by whomever were cautiously inspected by Jimin, but no matter how he squinted the words wouldn’t make sense.

Jungkook stopped in his tracks, his ears picking up on sounds, then a metallic clank, “Shh, hush! I think something…something else or someone is here.” Half looked towards the rows then others around the lab, all of them were on guard wands raised. Had the wizard running this place figured out they were here? They spun around as the clanking continued, but it was coming from behind them, from behind Jungkook. Jungkook turned towards the cinderblock wall and placed his ear near the wall. The sound amplified in his ear. It was coming from “inside” the wall.

He brought up his wand and casted another opening spell, discretion forgotten. The cinderblocks shifted and moved around, like the stairs at Hogwarts, creating a jagged gap into a dark room. The metal clanked loudly echoing into the laboratory then abruptly stopped. Jungkook looked back to the rest of the group. They all had a similar look in their eyes, a mix of fright, uncertainty but determination. Jungkook bit the bullet and ducked down and slipped into the new room. There was no stopping here. It was dark, the only light coming in was from a small window letting in moonlight. The cement room was empty except for a barely moonlit large, tall, square object covered in a white sheet. Whatever was underneath was causing the meal sound as it sounded again, he was sure whatever was underneath was aware of their presence.

Jungkook slipped through the gap and signaled for them all it was safe to enter. They pooled into the room and surrounded the square sheet their wand all raised ready for a duel. Jimin dared to not approach the veiled squared too closely, “What—what is it?”

The room smelled of rusted iron and something rancid, but Jungkook couldn’t pin it to anything. Being the brave soul, he gripped an edge of the fabric, “Well, there’s only one way to find out,” and pulled the veil with a single harsh yank. The cascading fabric feel like water, pooling slowly, each and every one of them took a step back wands tighter in their grip, except for Jungkook. He was absolutely mesmerized, almost hypnotic about the beast. They held their gasp behind their mask as their eyes widened. Underneath was a prison, a cage of thick metal bars that held a beast within. A class XXXXX beast, the untamable, a creature only known to kill…a dragon.

The dragon within gracefully raised their long neck slowly. It was severely dwarfed compared to the average dragon. The scales glimmered a pale blue, but it lacked the iridescence that was normal of dragon scales. Large patches of scales were missing from its frail body, as inflamed pink skin underneath seemed to throb in pain. Its pearl eyes lacked pupils and were one dimensionally white. The horns were shaven to stubs and all of its paws lacked claws. Jungkook would guess it’s Antipodean Opaleye, but the detrimental state of the dragon made him question the breed. That breed of dragon never showed itself to humans anyways, he had only studied the beast in novels, so how did it end up here?

Jungkook heart ached as he looked over the creature, “You poor thing.” He stepped up to the cage and a harsh hiss, like a balloon being released was aimed his way. “It’s okay, It’s okay. We’re not going to hurt you.” Just as the dragon was about to hiss again a loud popping sound came from the laboratory. The creatures in cages began howling, yelping, and yipping at the new presence.

Instinctually all of them covered the front of the cage at the new presences. Through the jagged opening it was quiet for a moment before wisp of white-dementor-like-people began pouring into the room. They began attacking as they flooded in, sending bolts of magic. Jungkook wielded his wand like a sword, he shouted out spells to counter the high level ones thrown his way. Two moved towards him at rapid speed sending bolts in intervals, easily he was able to counter one after the other. His intentions weren’t to injury any of them extremely, he needed to bring someone in. When they got close enough he grabbed their wrist broke the wand from their hand, while punching the other. Magic be dammned sometimes a god old fashion punch did the job. The two were out like a light. Bolts of light in green, reds and blues along with incantations shot around the room. It was hard to tell who was hit and who wasn’t with the grunts coming from all directions.

Jungkook swung, dodging a bolt, but came face to face with a white cloaked figure and attempted to bring down their mask but the perpetrator grabbed his wrist. He easily picked the guy off the ground, his feet hanging in the air. He’s able to notice the wrinkling around his eyes, the man seems older. Jungkook spat, “Who! Who are you?”

The guy choked a chuckled then disapparted in his grasp, then one by one the rest of them vanished into thin air. “No! No!” Jungkook reached for the tendrils of cloaks, but the magic seeped through his fingers. His chest heaved up and down as he stood there, all of them stood alone.

Namjoon helped up a kneeling Jimin and the others were heavily breathing. “What just happened?”

“They knew.” Yoongi huffed in disbelief, “They probably saw us coming from a mile away.”

“How?” Taehyung muttered.

Jungkook ran a hand through his hair trying to restore its order, “I don’t know.”

“Who are th—?”

Through the jagged entrance a figure stumbled through and each of them without hesitation zapped their wands full force cracking the cinder block. Jungkook’s eyes were narrowed fiercely, the anger rolling off of him in waves. They dare come back!

From the other end Jin’s high pitched voice resounded, “Whoa, whoa! Guys, its me!”

Yoongi groaned in exasperation, Jimin speaking for the rest, “Where were you when we needed you a second ago?”

Jin came through the gap, neck extended as he bobbed his head as he spoke, “Look, I told you I was gonna be later. I saw doors open, so I just walked right in. Do you know how d=scary coming through this was? And I got held—wait, what happened—whoa! Is that a Dragon?” Jin retreated back to the gap concealing himself by the cinder block.

Jungkook wiped the edge of his lip, a bit of blood smeared on the back of his hand. When did he get hit? He’d worry about it later. “Yes, it’s a dragon.”

Picking up a piece of their white cloak that had been torn during the fight, Namjoon spoke, “They won’t be coming back to this place.”

Jin pointed behind him still from his vantage point, “Well if they’re not coming back we need to figure out what to do with all these guys.”

Hoseok ran a frustrated hand through his hair, “There’s too many! There’s no way the Ministry won’t find out about—this.”

Jungkook stepped up to the cage expression filled with worry as the dragon laid on its side heaving, “Hey, buddy, stay with us, hang in there okay?” He gripped the bars of the cage tight, “I think I know a place.”

Jin digressed, “Were in the muggle world, how are we going to transport anything?” After deliberating they figured creating port keys and going in batches would be the best way to move all of them. It was going to take all night, but they had to do it. Taehyung was the strongest in teleportation so he was sent off to create the ports. The rest branched off into groups beginning to break down the establishment.

Under Jungkook’s breath accompanying a heavy sigh, “What did I get myself into?”

The dragon turned its head towards Jungkook who wheezed in his direction. Jungkook tilted his head, did the dragon understand what he said or was it just noise? He held the gaze of the dragon, there was something pulling him towards it, something in his guts were churning but the response was unclear. Physically shaking himself out of it he commanded to the room, “Move out!”

Your ribs ran along the metal poles of the cage and clanked it like a guard running their baton. The weight of your heavy wings on your frail body exaggerated the movement of your hips and shoulders. Regardless, you had to keep moving. You don’t know how long you’ve been pacing but resting on the solid metal floor of the cage only inflamed your nerves. There’s something unmeasurable about the way time is a torture device. How darkness begins to form its own beings and is a torture within itself.

The word that he spoke keep cycling through your mind. “Your heart. I’m going to take your heart next.”

How much longer did you have to live? How much longer.

You stopped pacing when you heard the cinder blocks changing, that jaw clenching sound of the dusty blocks grinding against one another. You couldn’t growl, you remained sullen in your spot, collapsing to the ground.

It was time to collect your heart.

Footsteps surrounded your cage, but you were so exhausted your hearing was going in and out you couldn’t tell how many were around you. When the sheet that was covering your cage was pulled down, you expected a knife to be raised, but there was no knife. You raised your head in curiosity and found yourself surrounded on all sides by men dressed in black cloaks and only their eyes were showing. You focused on the one directly in front of you, he towered over the others, he was at least seven feet tall. His black cloak concealed his body, much like the mask that only unveiled his eyes. Dark brown messy hair covered the man’s forehead and his eyes almost a golden brown as they studied you.

When he took his first step towards you it reminded you that these men could just be bad. That when you finally noticed the men surrounding the center one all had their wands pointed towards you. Maybe that scientists had sent others to extract your heart. You were ready to bite anyone who came near as you pulled back your lips to display your fangs, even if it meant using the last of your energy. You hissed with as big of a breath you could build, it hurt to exhale, but you kept a semblance of intimidation. “You poor thing.” The tall man spoke in a soft voice, but you knew he was teasing you, so you let out another hiss.

He—they—were here for your heart.

Loud popping filled your ears, you knew that sound well, the scientist were here. It was him, he had returned to take your heart. When all the men in black moved in front of your cage creating a blockade your hissing stopped. Why did they move in front of you? Behind one of the men in black back one of them had signed the okay sign to you, shaking their hand for emphasis. It was instantaneous, you watched on as black and white whirled around one another. Fireworks of magic splattered about as they fought. That man in white had looked directly at you, telling you it was his promise to come back for you.

As quickly as the scientist came, they disappeared.

What was going to happen to you now? You didn’t pick up on anything they were saying, but when the golden eyed man turned back to you and all others were busy he stepped up to your cage. He spoke to you softly, the same as before, hushed whispered promises that he was going to take care of you. You felt taken aback, why is he so nice. You still curled towards the back edge of the cage and watched him closely. You couldn’t trust them, not him, you just couldn’t.

He hated it but the only way to transport a dragon safely is by knocking them out. He wanted to build your trust, and this may just make you more fearful of him, but this was the only way. Dragons are a level five threat, but right now you look more like a class one threat; maybe as dangerous as a house flea.

He stepped up to the cage, “I’m going to get you out of here I promise. This isn’t going to hurt, you’re going to sleep for a bit.” You wheezed back to him already lucid, you were hyperventilating, but you lightly shook your head. He was taken aback, you understood him yet again? He only lets his gaze linger for a moment before he raised his wands and you closed your eyes. You knew you couldn’t trust his niceness. You scramble backwards with the little energy you had left and hissed with all your might. You were going to die. You knew what “sleep” meant.

Jungkook’s heart constricts within his chest, he can only imagine what’s going through your mind. “It’s going to be okay.” Under his breath he casted the bewitching spell that would put you to into a deep sleep. Only a spell he had picked up from his mentor who dealt with beast often.

As soon as their magic hit you, true blackness overcomes you as your eyelids closed. A blanket of cold overcomes you and you loose feeling in your limbs and the heavy feeling of your body was overbearing.

Jungkook directed his wand to the multitude of locks and broke it open, he flung the cage door open and ran in immediately going to work treating your wounds. He pulled out a container of star grass salve he always kept on himself and applied them to the areas missing scales.

Hoseok leaned into Yoongi, “Are you sure that’s safe that he’s in there?”

“He’s a magizoologist, he’s got this.” Yoongi waved over his shoulder as he carried on his way dragging Hoseok along with him.

Although Jungkook knows only bits and pieces about dragons from his days when he studied them in class, but he’s never had an actual interaction with a real life one. He figured that basic care should be similar to reptiles. He carefully searched and placed his hand behind your foreleg and felt for a pulse. He watched his watch counting the beats per second, for now he was satisfied, there still was a heartbeat, but it was very weak. You weren’t in good condition at all.

There was only one option for these creatures to have a chance at life.

With the help of Taehyung he apparated in front of Hagrid’s hut. Out of breath from the time jump he knocked furiously on the hut’s door, “Hagrid! Hagrid!”

The hut’s door burst open with the burly man clearly woken up from his sleep. “Hmm, what? What’s this all about boy?” Jungkook stepped out of the way and allowed Hagrid to see exactly what. Hagrid jaw hung open. “A dragon Kook?” Hagrid trotted down the stairs and approached the cage and inspected the sleeping dragon.

Hagrid had owned a few dragon’s from what Jungkook knew, but never had seen any. During his years at Hogwarts, he found someone who became a mentor and a long-time friend. Hagrid, who was also a half-giant, since Jungkook’s first year at Hogwarts, Hagrid took care of the Gryffindor. After graduating from Hogwarts, he found a job in the Ministry in the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures as a Magizoologist under the Beast division. He wanted to work in the Beings division, in order to promote rights for Giants, however, he found he had soft spot for the beast. After working at the Ministry for years he realized that there was so many issues with the system. The rescued creatures would often go into the system and often left in difficult situations. In worst cases, there was often there was nothing the Ministry could do. There was no true resolution.

The last straw was broken when he witnessed a being in the lobby begging on their knees for help and he couldn’t do anything about it. He roped in his friends, who also worked at the Ministry: Law enforcement (MACUSA), Central, Defense, Security, No-Maj Information, and even an Auror. The connections to different departments made the group stronger. He recruited his seven friends to form a unit that wouldn’t just only help creatures, but beings, wizards, anyone that needed help. He never wanted anyone to feel helpless again, he knew that feeling all too well. He called it Clause 7 Army, or C.7.A for short, inspired after Clause 73. It was kept a secret because he knew if the Ministry found out this secret he and his friends would be fired. They were stepping outside of their boundaries by far, but the risk is worth it.

He made a deal with Hagrid in passing that if he found creatures in need he could bring them there. Only once Jungkook began bringing things did Hagrid take him seriously.

“Kook, It’s gotta stay in the forbidden forest, I can’t have it too close to the castle. We’ll nurse it, but from there, when its better, we can see if we can send it to the sanctuary in Romania.”

Jungkook nodded, relieved that there was something he could do.

“Umm…well…there more than just a dragon.”

Hagrid eyes bulged, “How many?”

Jungkook scratched the back of his head, “About…a hundred or so more creatures?”

“WHAT!” The sleeping birds around the pumpkins in his yard flew away.

He was sure that the day after you would be furious at him. His suspicions were correct when he had come to see you. While you were still unconscious you were moved to a bigger cage, but it would’ve been compact for a full-fledged dragon. He held the package of food in his arms tight as he came into view, you poked your head up hearing him approach your cage. As he anticipated you glared at him with narrowed eyes, even going as far as scooting yourself around to show him your back. He wanted to chuckle you were so expressive, so honest. He swallowed it down.

“Morning, did you sleep well?”

You raised your tail and thunked it on the floor once. He raised a brow at biting his lips now. He didn’t speak dragon, but he knew exactly what that translated as. He slowly rounded the cage catching one eye peeked open before you shut it closed and began scooching away again. He stopped then continued and you kept scooching until you were both at the same spot you both began with.

“Alright, alright, I get it. Look,” he back up until his back hit a nearby tree and slumped down against it, “I’m sorry.”

You didn’t move.

“I’m sorry for everything, but I had to get you out of there. I know it’s hard to believe but I’m not going to hurt you. I’m a magizoologist, I take care of creatures like you. I don’t want to hurt you. I will never hurt you.”

The breeze picked up brushing the hair out of his face. These steps were always static, having patience, but he knew in time if he built this trust with you it’d be worth it. He picked up the butchers paper wrapped package and began unwrapping the twine and stood back up and he unveiled the raw steaks he had inside. Through the bars he slid it in and steps back to where he was. “Eat, I promise nothings in it, its just meat.” You remained unmoved.

Waiting, he played the waiting game and he was willing to do it. After a few hours of sitting, with the occasional one-sided conversation, he got up. He wondered if you would eat if he left. He left with a promise of returning tomorrow. When he returned he found the meat untouched and silently he pulled it out of the cage and replaced it with new food. He came back during his lunch break and after work for dinner, exchanging out the uneaten food. He would eat his own meal as he chatted you up about his day. Little progress was being made you didn’t turn your back to him you were facing him and eventually you kept your eyes open. Those were victories in their own right but he was beginning to become concerned if you were going to eat at all. For the first time as a caretaker he felt unsure of what to do. He could sneak in sleeping draught into your food but you hadn’t even touched the food offered to you.

He had come back. His height was still daunting but he now dressed in casual attire compared to his suits he wore the first time he had visited you. You could tell he was quite lean and muscular. His hair was often messy as he ran his hands through it in frustration. He brought different types of poultry and fat for you to eat, yet nothing seemed to entice you.

On day five, He slumped down resting his back on a tree as he listless stared at you. He had slept about an hour or so last night at his desk. He had been going through any information on a dragon he could possibly find. However, it was all on other breeds, similar species, but there wasn’t any on an opal dragon.

He had silently exchanged the food out then moved to his spot under the tree. The breeze carried through the tree rustling the leaves. You kept your eyes on him the whole time waiting for your daily chatterbox to go off. You slowly began raising your head as he had his head lowered, bobbing in the need for sleep. It wasn’t long before you saw his chest slowly rising and falling and he was asleep.

You kept your eyes on him. Your stomach was rumbling and you were adjusting on your tender legs to ease the feeling. Your eyes drifted towards the fresh meat, the scent tickled your nose and erupting your stomach in another wave of rumbles. Your feet were moving before you even were aware of it, slowly began inching forward towards the meat. The smell of it making you salivate. You couldn’t help it anymore, you wanted to eat. You picked up the pieces of meat and swallowed them whole. As you were about to reach for another piece you realized you had eaten all if it.

“You were hungry weren’t you?” Jungkook exhausted voice reached your ears loud and clear. Your head whipped up meeting his tired expression as he smiled from ear to ear. “Ah, I’m so glad. I’m so glad you finally ate.” The smile didn’t leave his face, “Sorry I didn’t bring more, but I promise to bring more later for dinner.”

Oddly enough you were feeling embarrassed with how much protest you had put up. You broke the soft eye contact he kept with you and tucked your wings around you covering your face slightly. He burst out in laughter holding his stomach.

Your pale blue scales had turned opal and your eyes the same. He was getting somewhere. Finally.

“Opal! I’m back!” You peeked up from your rested position. You watched that spot between the trees Jungkook would come from. You could even count how many steps it was before he appeared. As the giant rounded the tree, his eyes sparkling, you tail began to wag. He approached the cage with his hands behind his back. You attempted leaning one side but he moved the other. Childishly enough he began circling your cage with his eyebrows raised mischievously. “I brought something special today Opal.”

You followed him around, curiosity getting the better of you as you tried to see what’s behind his back. He abruptly stopped, “On one condition though.”

You plopped yourself down, there was always a condition. He giggled, “Will you take this medicine and I’ll give you something delicious.”

His heart was beating in his throat, this was the truest test of trust he had been building with you for weeks now. You gave him that look of a small nod and he placed his bad down near the tree before he brought out a big pill. He stepped towards the cage and slowly raised his hands, showing you the was willing to take his time. “Your wounds are taking a long time to heal and this is going to make you feel better. Okay?”

He snuck his hand through the bars, confident you wouldn’t hurt him

He bent down coming to your level, “You’re pretty small for a dragon.”

You wheezed, this giant dares judge your size. You gave him a bit of a run for his money, if he was going to be that way you could play too. You were stubborn refusing to take the pill, but as soon as he threatened to take away the treat you swallowed it up. He found himself laughing, he was always laughing around you. He honored his promise and gave you some sweet fruits, the extra sugar could do you good.

He leaned up against the cage, he hadn’t realized how long he had stayed with you. In the lull of the silence, ever so softly he began humming. The more relaxed he became the melodious hum turned into song. He was like a siren you couldn’t help but want to hear him better, you wanted to be closer to him. You were always cold and the nights were colder, if only you were normal. You crept towards the bars and like a cat you leaned against the bars and curled up. He shifted leaning on his side as he reached towards you. Your head ducked as he reached for you, momentarily stopping his song. “It’s okay, look,” he patted his own head then reached for your own. You slowly approached him centimeter by centimeter before he reached his hand through the bar. He gently rested his hand on your head his hand twitching at the cold feeling of your scales. He relaxed his hand and with his thumb he stroked over your brow. His warmth caused you to shiver as your shoulders shook causing your wings to wiggle. He chuckled and began to pet you slowly and cautiously, “See, its not all that bad, it’s quite nice.” You huffed and he followed with a laugh. Somewhere along the line he began singing again. The heat he emitted radiated to you and you sighed a heavy breath of relief, it felt so nice to feel warmth. Your eyes were heavy as he sung his lullaby and for the first time in a long time you truly slept.

Your ears perk up as you hear the crunching of leaves. You picked up your head and searched within the trees. It was still fairly early in the day, Jungkook usually visited you when the shadows of the trees were more rightward. Jungkook, since he saved you a few weeks ago, he had slowly gained your trust. He never made a move towards your scales, or when your claws were coming back in he didn’t snip them. He was very patient with you, he dismissed your hissing and soothed you regardless.

You sat up, a bit excited, he had come earlier than usual. From behind the trees, four boys in black cloaks appeared. Their eyes widen as they gasp out strings of gasp, a muffled scream, then a, “Whoas!” They slowly step closer, the other bumping into one another as they smack and clumsily move forward. As they approach the cage you hiss at them, trying to warn them to stay away. They laugh and imitate you, “Aren’t you supposed to breathe fire? Why is this Dragon hissing?”

The other pokes with an elbow at the other, “Maybe its just an overgrown lizard?”

“Why is it so white?”

They circled around your cage and tapped the bars with their wands.

Your eyes blurred, images of the lab crossing your mind as the scientists did the same to you. The same laughs blending in with the kids surrounding you.

“Bet you can’t touch it?”

“Psh, I can, I’m not scared!”

“Yeah you are! You can’t do it! You can’t do it!”

The kid grew flush as his friends pressured him. “I’m-I’m-I’m gonna do it!”

The kid stepped towards your cage, and you kept hissing scooting towards the other side of the cage away from the approaching kid. His hand was shaking as he reached towards the cage. You were yowling, but it was an awkwardly strained sound, it only scared the child further, but the chanting behind him of, “Do it! Do it! Do it!,” kept him going.

When he reached for your tail and squeezed it tight you pulled away from him violently, screaming with a thin hiss at the pain. Your tail was still tender as it was the most often shaved place for your scales. You hadn’t realized how hard you knocked the side of the cage as you kept thrashing as the kid was paralyzed in fear and hadn’t let go. He finally let go when the cage tipped over slowly before it hit the ground with a cloud of dust. The lock bent and smashed on an overgrown root and the gate. As you moved to right yourself the cage rolled and you tumbled again, back slamming as you pulled your wings around you tight. The cage door swung open as the boys screamed and ran behind a tree, shaking. You could faintly pick up their chatter, “What did you do!”

You looked towards the top of the trees the sun unfiltered through bars hitting you. You crawled up and out, you had to get out. You sprung forth, despite your muscles protesting and you plopped onto the soil in a coil. You scuffled your feet a bit, tail swishing behind you, the feeling of grass and dirt underneath your feet so unfamiliar. You couldn’t remember the last time you felt grass. You heard the crunching of leaves as one boy stepped from behind the tree looking at you with big eyes. The same one who touched you. You stretched your wings and ran for it, distance was all that mattered.

The terrain was extremely uneven bouts hills, tangled roots, and greenery was confusing. You kept pushing your unused muscles, the feeling of running itself feeling unusual. The spots where you lacked scales felt the chilly wind rush against you as you sped forth. Your four legs pounded away gaining kilometers in minutes. You ran and ran losing track of time.

Even if you were paying attention you wouldn’t have been able to stop in time. You barely had time to wheeze as a strong impact knocked into you throwing you directly into a tree. You slid down the tree as you picked your trembling limps up, your eyes wiped to the newest intruder. You saw its giant two toes before you looked up to the greenish, grey body of a troll. It raised their tree stump of a bat and swung towards you and you bolted and where you were the roots busted and flayed around. The troll was quick, stumbling after you and tried grabbing you, but you slipped out of its grasp, but it was sharp and grabbed for you tail again. Quick on adrenaline you slipped past, going through a root hole through a large tree. The fumbling troll swung its arms attempting to grasp you any way possible. You couldn’t breathe, you kept running. The troll’s claw scratched your side before you slipped through the tree and made it out. You pushed forward and kept running. There was no other choice.

You weren’t sure where you were going, but you knew you had made it far. You were pumping your limps so fast you felt nauseous, blood pressure so high you couldn’t hear. Brown, olives and other shades of green blending into a blur. Eventually the colors took form as you slowed, the gash at your side felt warm as your blood painted over your scales. You were heaving and trotting at some point. You collapsed in a clearing the echoing sound of your thud on the grass not filtering through your buzzing ears.

You tried getting up on a shaky limb but you capsized downward onto the soft grass. You huffed out a pained breath. The pain that once was a burning fire turned into a numbing ice.

Just when…just when you thought…

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poppibranchlover · 4 years

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Nine Lives, One Fight - Part 22

The story: Deep in the forest of Troll Town, there lies a mysterious tiny purple mushroom that has a secret magical ability. King Peppy calls this mushroom forbidden for all Trolls to go near it. One day, while Branch is out in the woods doing his survival research studying, he encounters it and, not knowing it is a regular mushroom, decides to harvest it and bring it home. But in the next morning, its magic effects transform him into a small blue cat! After being sent to the animal pound, his girlfriend, Poppy, finds him and decides to adopt him, although not recognizing it is Branch. Desperate to finish his research project due for a special event invented by Poppy, Branch is forced to learn how to behave like a pet cat and must figure out what caused him to become one.

You already seen what had happened in Part 21. Now get ready for Part 22!:

“I’m so sorry, Poppy. I should have listened to you and your dad,” Branch muttered sadly, feeling the pressure to give up. He closed his eyes and settled himself to sleep.

Wiggles, the little bunny, emerged from the shadows, desperate for his friend. He saw Branch sleeping alone on the cliff and hopped towards him.

“There you are!” he cried, looking worried sick. “I’ve been searching the whole forest for you! You would’ve been caught by a net, or something worse!” Then he noticed how he was feeling right now. “Why the long face? What happened?”

Branch opened his eyes and turned to Wiggles, his face overwhelmed by guilt and sadness. “I should have saved myself from that mushroom,” he said hopelessly. “You heard what the lieutenant of Poppy’s dad said to her? Now everyone, including Poppy, thinks I’m dead. They all can’t recognize me.”

He then sunk his chin onto his front paws in despair, mourning about his failure to get the other Trolls’ attention. Wiggles crept to his side and thought for a moment to help cheer him up and come up with a plan.

“Hey, kid. It’s going to be alright,” he said gently, stroking his fur with one bunny paw. “Let the entire village know what’s really at stake if you’re under a spell of a magic mushroom. They’ll help us figure somethin’ out.”

But Branch is completely overwhelmed, feeling like his heart is about to shatter even more. “It’s not going to be alright,” he said, shaking his head in despair. “I’ve messed everything up, and soon after tomorrow, I’m going to become ‘full cat’ forever.” He sighed for a moment. “If only there’s another Archaeo morphisis mushroom somewhere in the woods that will help change me back. I just miss my Troll body so much.”

Wiggles nuzzled his cheek. “Don’t worry about that,” he reassured him gently. “I think there will be more time to retrieve that mushroom if we could just keep going.”

“But it will be my last day to live like this soon,” Branch said, on the verge of tears. “I’m not sure if I can make it.”

“I’m positive you will make it out of the spell,” Wiggles told him with strong passionate emotion. “Everyone will not think you are dead. Just do not run away from your only companion ever again, okay?”

Branch quickly thought for a moment about what he told him and he turned back to him, grateful for his support. “I’m glad you’re here for me, Wiggles,” he said, barely making out a relieved smile.

“Me too,” said Wiggles, hugging his face. “Unless, of course, you would be stuck like this for another day later.” After a moment of comforting Branch, he looked away and sighed, as if he remembered something tragic that happened to him before.

“Listen…” Wiggles admitted sadly, taking a deep breath before he can say anything. “I had the most painful secret I ever kept that I didn’t want to tell you about.”

Branch looked confused. “What secret?” he asked, looking at the sad little rabbit. “You never told me any secrets you kept.”

“Well…” Wiggles started to say, but he grunted with frustration. In fact, he was afraid that Branch might be freaking out if he did tell him something truly dark. “It’s still haunting my mind for a very long time that I don’t want to talk about it much!” The bunny was clearly panicking as his long ears droop closer to his back.

“No, it’s okay,” Branch told him gently. “I’m listening. Don’t be shy, Wiggles. Just tell me something.”

Wiggles shrank back with guilt. This was it. Now it is the perfect time to say something else to his only friend he had ever known. “Okay, here goes nothing.” He took a big, deep breath before blurting out inexplicably “The truth is…I am also a Troll cursed by the magical purple mushroom!”

That settled it. Branch immediately stood up and turned directly to him, completely horrified at what he had just said.

“WHAT?!” he shouted in horror. He couldn’t believe his ears! Ever since they met, Wiggles was just an ordinary little bunny in the woods! And now, after all this time, the bunny WAS ACTUALLY A TROLL UNDER THE SPELL OF THE ARCHAEO MORPHISIS?! He felt like this is not right. There had to be some kind of terrible mistake.

Looking at Wiggles, totally baffled at his secret, Branch stammered in disbelief “You’re a Troll too?! But…how is this even possible?”

Wiggles was so guilty of blurting his secret in front of his friend that he explained “I’m sorry for telling you the truth about my backstory. Now is the time I’ll tell you why I am just like you a long time ago.”

“Really?” Branch asked, staring at him. “What did happened to you? How did you end up like this?”

Wiggles sighed and went on to explain his backstory. “Don’t you see? I was a carrot farmer, working day and night in the farming premises of the village. I had a passion for harvesting carrots and selling them for investment.”

Scrapbook imagery began to play before his mind. Wiggles remembered that in his early days as a Troll, he used to have lime-colored skin, green hair and old-fashioned clothing like a farmer. In the scrapbook flashback, he was raking a garden and watering crops with a watering can.

“I was having such a happy life, taking care of my precious carrot garden and making sure the crops are ripe enough to eat. I even had a tremendous appetite on carrots,” Wiggles explained, shaking off the memory of his daily routine. Flipping through the next scrapbook memory, he remembered about a big toadstool-shaped restaurant with a picture of a smiling carrot on top of the roof.

“Carrots were my favorite vegetables, and I decided to run a business about them! That’s why I opened a fabulous gourmet restaurant for the Trolls to go crazy on these orange buds!”

Wiggles smiled at the memory of himself opening his famous restaurant, with Poppy impressed and awed at his amazing work.

“You may come in!” he announced in the flashback. “My carrot restaurant is open for business!”

“Yay!” scrapbook Poppy cheered. “It’s a nice restaurant!”

Wiggles remembered that all the Trolls were lining up to buy carrots from his restaurant, giving him so many money. He would have been rich if he had much more.

“But little by little, there are less people entering and exiting my cafe,” he explained. “I grew bored, wondering what to do next and how to get more currency to invest for my farm.” In a scrapbook image, he was sitting on the cashier counter, bored and staring longingly at his small tower of money.

“That is when I decided to get more carrots,” Wiggles said. “The more I will grow them and take them to business, the more money I will pay!”

The memory then changed to another one depicting him in his garden.

“In my farm, I went for some gardening. It didn’t take long for me to get started as I whipped out my rake and headed for the crops. But as I was walking along the way, I stepped on something on the ground.”

In the scrapbook flashback, Wiggles was making his way to start his raking when he stepped on something with a…SNAP!!!

“Huh?! What is this?” the green Troll asked, startled at the sound. He bent down and picked up the object from the ground. It turned out to be a purple seed that glowed bright purple magic inside. Wiggles felt so suspicious at his find.

“When I picked it up, it looked like a strange-looking seed. I have no idea what it is, but I’m curious of what it is doing here.”

“Hang on just a second,” Branch interrupted. “There’s something really strange going on with that seed.”

Wiggles kept going with his backstory. “After a long day of gardening for more carrots, I started to feel tired. Taking my bundle of carrots and that strange seed along with me, I headed home, inside my cozy, humble pod. It’s where I used to live.”

Wiggles remembered what his own Troll pod house used to be like. It was orange-reddish on most of it except for the bottom half, which is coated with yellow.

“I was trying to relax myself by reading a book when a violent thunderstorm burst into the sky.”

BOOM!!! ZAP!!!!

The scrapbook image of Wiggles’ Troll pod in a sunny day quickly changed into a dark and stormy night. Rain poured from the dark clouds (and even Cloud Guy was pouring rain as well), thunder roared and lightning flashed. The stormy wind caused the pod to sway unsteadily.

“The heavy rain is causing me to drop my book as I got startled by the wind from outside. I looked for something to hold onto, but then I started to feel a little pain in my head. The next thing I knew was that I’m experiencing some severe or mild discomfort in my whole body.”

Wiggles shuddered at the moment he had a headache and was sweating like crazy.

“What happened?” Branch asked, looking worried. “I knew there is something going on with that seed!”

“That is for you to find out its symptoms,” Wiggles explained, his voice filled with grave emotion. “Stage 1 is when you get a severe headache. Stage 2 is the discomfort of deforming in the limbs.”

“What is Stage 3?”

“Stage 3 is in the middle of chromothripsis. You’ll definitely pass out. Your genomes will be smashed apart…so they can be reassembled with animal DNA.”

A scrapbook image depicted Wiggles in Troll form, undergoing a werewolf-like transformation. A shadow of a rabbit can be seen in front of him.

“After I suffered from stage 4, which is epigenetic modulation, I went to the final phase of my transformation,” Wiggles said. “That is when your body is being flooded with endorphins to prepare you for the immense physical pain you’re about to experience.”

The scrapbook cutout of Wiggles clutched tightly onto his stomach with his two hands, groaning in pain and falling onto the floor, barely becoming unconscious in the process.

“The next thing I knew is that my house engulfed with a violent blast of purple magic!”

In another scrapbook image, Wiggles’ beloved pod went…

POOF!!!

Purple clouds of magic covered everywhere in the pod. A second later, it crashed down to the ground. CRASH!!!

Some Trolls who were walking by got startled at the sound of a pod crashing. They cautiously walked towards the broken pod house, in which purple light began to glow from inside.

“The Trolls frantically rushed to find me in my home, but all they can find is a glowing purple mushroom,” Wiggles stated sadly.

Branch was shocked at the memory of two Trolls finding Wiggles’ wrecked pod. It had been clear that to according to everyone’s reaction, the green Troll is nowhere to be found inside the house, and the Archaeo morphisis mushroom is what is left laying in there.

The scene then changed to a funeral. All the Trolls were gathered around a casket, wearing formal black clothing. Some were sobbing and paying their respects.

“Soon, with no trace of my whereabouts, a funeral was held for my presumed death,” Wiggles explained. “Worst of all, my beloved carrot restaurant went out of business.”

He gestured to another scrapbook image of his carrot restaurant, which now had a sign that says “Closed” pinned to the cute-eyed carrot picture. It now displayed a sad face instead of smiling, meaning that it became sad that the owner of the restaurant was gone.

Scrapbook Poppy approached Wiggles’ restaurant, and upon reading the sign, she looked very sad. “Oh no.”

Branch looked stunned. For a moment, Wiggles just shook his head, overcome by the sad memories. Then he took a deep breath and said, “Many of the Trolls never knew what became of me. When I woke up, I looked down at a rain puddle and realized that I transformed into a rabbit. Since then, I spent most of my life living as this small carrot-craving animal for two years after my funeral was held and the Archaeo morphisis mushroom became extinct and taken away from Troll history for good.”

Another flashback projected in Wiggles’ mind, but only this time, it wasn’t made from scrapbook cutouts. It depicted the little bunny that he had become, lost and alone in the forest.

“No one will see me. No one will need my help anymore,” said Wiggles, almost feeling like crying. “I realized I was so far away from my home, I couldn’t find it. A few days later, as I was roaming the woods, the Animal Control tried to catch me.”

Wiggles remembered that when the Animal Control officers find him in the forest, they chased after him. He desperately searched for a place to hide from the two angry running Trolls wearing caps, who were holding their nets.

“I ran for my life when I found the perfect place to be hidden,” said Wiggles. “As the catchers ran away, I was about to get going when a flash of purple light blinded my sight. That’s when I realized that I was hiding behind a log that was beside another Archaeo morphisis mushroom.”

The rabbit remembered the day he found the Archaeo morphisis mushroom in the furthest peak of the forest. It was standing there, barely making out repeated haunted voices that would draw Trolls close to it and order them to touch and pick it up.

“I tried to ignore the voices in my head, remembering the incident that happened a long time ago,” explained Wiggles. “Suddenly, I heard a voice in the distance…it was your voice.”

That was when Branch quickly remembered the first time he encountered the magical mushroom. Wiggles saw Branch, in his normal Troll form, approaching towards the Archaeo morphisis and hid in a bush. He had witnessed him preparing to pick it up when King Peppy and Poppy worriedly rushed to his side, attempting to warn Branch not to touch the mushroom.

Wiggles watched from his bush as Poppy started shouting at Branch. “You’ve got some explaining to do, mister! Where were you just now? My dad heard you almost touched the magical purple mushroom!”

“How dare you told me that!” Branch said, glaring at her. “I was just harvesting some ingredients for your festival!”

“But you almost harvest that mushroom!” said Poppy. “You could’ve been vanished!”

“I’m just doing what I need to do right now!” Branch said, looking very mad at her. “So why did you and your father try to stop me?”

The flashback soon ended as Wiggles sadly finished his story. “It turns out I’m not the only one trapped in the mushroom’s magic spell. One day, I came across you, selfish and stubborn with blue mad eyes. That is not how you’ve always been acting.”

Branch was totally speechless. “So…you’ve been spying on me when I argued with Poppy and her dad?” he asked in disbelief.

Wiggles looked at Branch directly in his eyes. “That’s how I realized what you just did! While I’m still stuck in this tiny little rabbit body for a long time, I came to your assistance and told you the truth,” he explained, his voice growing more serious as he spoke. “According to King Peppy, there was only one purple mushroom existing in the other side of the woods where no one can collect it. One day, you didn’t listen to him, and you angered its magical power by taking it away from good hands. Thanks to you, there are no more magic purple mushrooms that exist.”

The instant Wiggles told him this, Branch felt his stomach twist. He felt more guilty than ever. He thought for a minute before realizing the horrible truth.

“Oh no! You are right!” Branch admitted, looking scared. “This was the last Archaeo morphisis mushroom existing right now! I must have lost it somewhere in town while I was holding my basket of berries on the way home!”

“What?” Wiggles asked, shocked. “Why did you lose the mushroom? That’s our last one!”

Branch paced around on his four legs as he explained “I was so careless that I bumped to a passing Troll and spilled my basket holding the mushroom and my berries in it. I don’t have much time to pick them up because a dog chased me and the Animal Control sent me to the pound until Poppy adopted me.” He heaved a big, sad sigh and he felt tears stinging in his eyes. “It’s my fault. I totally lost one of Troll Village’s forbidden possessions without permission.”

Wiggles stood in front of Branch, his mouth hung open with unbelievable shock. “How could you….?”

“I’m so sorry, Wiggles!” Branch said, anguished. “I’ve been such a careless boy. All that I spent throughout this day was getting the Trolls’ help, but no one can hear me or see me, and the Animal Control will always get me. Without that mushroom, I will never turn back into a Troll.”

He turned around in a circle and curled himself up, disappointed at his mistake. “What have I done?” he mumbled in a small voice.

Wiggles stepped forward. “I’m sorry that I told you what happened to me a long time ago,” he said with as much shame as possible. “But it made you feel even worse. What I had said about the horrible feeling of transforming into animals that represent our talent has got to be the most painful weakness.”

“Yeah, it’s alright, Wiggles,” Branch replied, his voice dripping with sarcasm. “You already told me about that one. I really appreciated your backstory.” He sighed heavily before continuing. “But I don’t want what happened to you… to happen to me.”

Branch looked down at the grass as another scrapbook image flashed through his mind, depicting his own funeral. “I also don’t want to be announced dead like you, Wiggles,” he said, nearly crying.

“I feel the same way. I even regretted picking up that magical seed in my garden two years ago,” Wiggles said despondently. “With the two of us becoming animals, all the people and our loved ones think we’re goners.”

The two of them sat on the cliff for a moment, sadly thinking of their future. Branch took a moment to wipe his tears and make a decision. He let out a big breath from his throat and looked up with determination.

“I guess I’ll have to do what is needed to be done,” he said in a brave voice, standing up on his four paws. “I have to find the last existing Archaeo morphisis before its effects expire.”

Then he looked back at Wiggles and added firmly “But I can’t do it alone, no matter how scared I am.” After that, he hung his head low, sighing.

Wiggles looked excited. “Look in the bright side,” he said enthusiastically. “You should be glad you had a companion to support you. But I’ll stay ahead of your tail until we do it together, like a team!” He nudged Branch’s shoulder and gave him an encouraging smile.

Branch felt a wave of relief wash over him. He hadn’t let himself admit that he had been scared to be alone. Now that Wiggles encouraged him to move on, he is sure to be ready to set things right.

“I knew you can count on me like that, Wiggles,” Branch told him with a gentle smile. But then he noticed he wasn’t really answering back. “Wiggles?”

He looked down at his side and saw the little rabbit beside him with his eyes closed. He was so tired from searching for him in the woods that he immediately fell asleep.

“Oh, Wiggles.” Branch smiled, feeling touched at the bunny’s funny little personality. Then he had an idea. He rested himself on the ground, folding his tail around Wiggles and using it like a furry blanket. He dragged him closer to his shoulder to make sure he is more comfortable.

Branch was feeling sorry for his friend’s longtime tragedy and whispered “Hang in there, buddy. I promise I’ll help change you back as well.”

Then he licked his face and rested his head down his front paws, closing his eyes as the two friends settled to sleep for the night.

Comforted by his gentle words, Wiggles snuggled himself into the warmth of Branch’s long tail, leaning in as blue fur bristled through his grey face. He is more grateful to have a special friend who will always be there for him.

An hour later, Branch’s eyes suddenly snapped open, thinking that he might have forgotten about one thing.

Wide-awake, he gasped and realized something! “Oh no! Poppy! I should be getting back to her pod!”

Branch knew he had to get back to Poppy’s house because he had been staying as her pet in there. He quickly looked back at Wiggles, who was still curled up in his long blue tail. “I could really use your help taking me home,” he told the rabbit.

Responding to the sound of his voice, Wiggles yawned and stretched. “What? We’re leaving now?” he asked in a tired tone.

“Yeah, we need to get moving!” said Branch. “Get up!”

Wiggles thought for a moment, and then made up his mind. “Okay then, let’s do it.”

They were about to leave when Garth burst out of the shadows. He walked slowly forward with his net. “All right, kitty cat. Come on…”

Branch and Wiggles gasped. After capturing the stray cat earlier, Garth had focused back on finding and capturing Branch!

Wiggles squeaked in horror. “RUN!!!”

“Come on!” Branch screamed as he picked up Wiggles in his mouth and made a run for the edge of the woods.

Garth ran after the two animals, yelling “HEY! COME BACK HERE, YOU CAT!!!”

As he ran, Branch quickly tossed Wiggles onto his back. Garth swung his net forward but he slipped on the edge of the cliff!

He screamed as he tumbled into the river with a…

SPLASH!!!

When Garth dunked into the water, his cap went flying before landing gently on the river. This slowed him down and allowed Branch and Wiggles to escape.

They both looked back at the defeated Garth behind them and cheered as they finally got away from the Animal Control officer.

Wiggles held on to Branch’s back, riding him like a horse. He looked up at him and boasted triumphantly “I told you I’d always be ahead of your tail!”

“Yeah!” Branch said proudly, looking over his shoulder as he ran. “Me too, Wiggles!”

Together, the two of them quickened their pace as they made their way to Troll Village.

To Be Continued…

Stay tuned for Part 23!

#dreamworks trolls #branch #cat #cat branch #branch the cat #wiggles #wiggles the rabbit #cat branch story #nine lives one fight #fanfiction #tommy #tommy the troll #poppy #animal control #garth

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secret-time-is-here · 4 years

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The King and his Aid

Chapter 10: Family

Previous - First (Season 1) - First (Season 2) - Next

While the night before had been awkward and being honest, both of them hated it, the next morning was hopeful. Neil waking up early by the sun’s light pouring through the open curtains and immediately started waiting by the door like a puppy waiting for their owner to return.

The time ticked by at a turtles speed but at the ripe hour of noon, Dean and Edwin finally showed, the King jumping on his aid as soon as he walked in the door, hugging him close. His brother shaking his head at his foolishness and Cecil simply laughing at how adorable they were in a heap on the floor.

From there, Neil rarely let go of his boyfriend, clinging to him. It seemed that his partner didn’t mind at all since the few times they separated their tight hold, the darker skeleton would cling to his King instead. His body was always so cold, chest pounding in pain, but when Edwin was with him. Everything changed.

A strong warmth branched and streamed from his chest and where they touched, the pounding pain that made his form shiver eased to a heat akin to comfort, under layers of blankets on a cold winter day with your lover. Often, he could swear that he felt their souls beat in sync, a rhythm of a song he didn’t know until he accepted his feelings for his Eddie.

He still didn’t know the name, and he doubts he’ll ever find out, but he knew it went to the beat of his love. A steady cycle that flowed soothingly like their relationship, dropping with their lows and easing to their moments of peace and love.

Even as he was away from his love and changed into something more comfortable for beach lounging, and the song was fading, he could still remember it in his mind and him it by heart.

“Brother,” Dean knocked, poking his head into the large room he had, “You almost done? I swear, you taking longer than any Princess getting ready, and that’s saying something.” He laughed, casual as he walked into the room without prompt.

“Sorry, just… Do I look good?” Neil hesitantly asked

“Neil, we’re bones with clothes over, our bags of flesh gone who knows where. I think we can wear basically anything and look good.” The King glared at the younger, “Yes, you look great. Now let’s get going, your glitchy is waiting for you.” He laughed further, leaving the room without his brother.

Neil hurriedly followed along, walking into the airy and lit up halls of the second floor and down to the open and summer heat of the first floor, through the open back porch and down further to the beach.

“You sure I look okay?”

“Yes, you look great! Now let’s get down there, they’ve been waiting for us long enough.” Dean assured, surprised he was worrying so much over swim trunks when most of them were wearing practically the same thing, aside from Cecil, who still had to have proper swimwear for his female born body.

Thankfully, at the least, he could wear some swim bottoms and have a t-shirt to cover his chest, making him a little more comfortable.

However, when Neil and Edwin caught each other’s eyes, something sparked.

Edwin’s coal-black ribs showcased to the world, scars littered randomly from his years of training, a large slash across his chest but healed by time. His arms a lovely crimson, wrist and hands switching back to coal for just a moment before showing multicolor fingers. His intermediate phalanges a brilliant sunflower-yellow and the tips crimson once more. A faintly noticeable red glow hiding his healing soul. Glitches sprinkled across his form and as handsome as always.

On the other hand, Neil’s pristine and pearly bones were plain and gorgeously prefect to Edwin, not a scar insight and curved nurtured bones. Ribcage strong and a glow of purple from his raging soul coming from it. Burning with magic. A dark stain of eggplant-purple the only outliner, smack in the middle of his chest, the size of a fist and surprisingly not affecting him at all. To Edwin, it showed him that even his angel of a partner had his handsome imperfections.

When they managed to tear their gaze away from each other’s bodies, they got knowing looks from the other two skeletons with them.

Cecil gave a wide smirk.

“Get a room!” He smiled, grabbing Dean’s hand and pulling the royal along with him as the ran from the powerfully flustered couple. Thankfully only playfully running after them and not throwing any attacks.

-----

The day lounging at the beach went by quickly after that, Edwin finding a comfortable place surrounded by his King’s arms and in his lap, while Dean awkwardly tried to talk with Cecil, acting more like the teen he is rather than the high Prince act he holds up.

The King and his aid getting revenge by telling the awkward pair to get a room of their own, to their surprise, they did do later that night. Cecil leaving the master bedroom with Neil to go off and find Dean’s room, giving Edwin the opportunity he couldn’t miss.

Quietly knocking on the door, giving the few quick knocks he always did-letting Neil know who it was, he walked in. closing the door behind him.

“Error?” Neil’s voice carried, tired and quiet, “Are we taking their advice now?” He joked

“Y-yeah… Do you mind if I join you?” The aid asked, still as quiet as he could be.

“Not at all,” The King softly smiled, “Please, join me.” Letting one of his dark tendrils pull the curtains closed and another guide Edwin over to him in the darkroom, nothing more than their eye lights illuminating the room. That and their faint but visible blushes, Neil’s a royal purple while Edwin had blue sparkled across his skull.

Edwin walked closer, holding the tendril-like a hand and caressing it with such love that it deepened Neil’s blush further, the tendril being made of his magic and an extension of himself.

“J-just get over here.” The Royal huffed, becoming more flustered by the second. His aid the only one to ever really see the tendrils, let alone not be disgusted by them. Yes, his brother Dean has seen them, even has broth yellow beams of light to manipulate as he pleases, but that was different. He was family, he knew and understood the fear their magic brings.

But Edwin… he wasn’t afraid of him. Wasn’t afraid of his magic. The first person to ever really try and get to know him. They could’ve separated ways after Neil had found him, but they stayed close and became even closer. He was happy the court knew nothing about their relationship. They would tear the two apart in a soul beat if they ever found out.

Smiling bright, Edwin climbed into bed with his King, snuggling close quickly. Arms snug around his lover, and his lover’s arms closing around him. Lulling down into a restful sleep, Neil felt his soul beat calmly, singing its song once more basking in the warmth of his partner.

-----

“Are you sure you’re okay, C?” Neil asked again, helping Cecil to a chair outside, Dean close by and Edwin watching carefully and aiding in anything he could. Cecil having moe trouble than usually due to a little bump resting on his belly.

At least they didn’t have to do it again.

“Please, Neil, I’m fine. The little one is just giving me a bit of a hard time.” Cecil laughed, still not used to being married, much less pregnant.

“Positively sure?” Dean asked, giving much more affection and attention than Neil would ever be able to. Acting a lot more fatherly and protective than Neil was over his own wife.

“Yes!” Cecil laughed, going from annoyed to giggly and laughing in a second, easing down onto a picnic blanket on the lime-colored summer grass. Everyone else starting to ease down with him, relaxing more as The Queen got comfortable. “So, what’d you all want to talk to me about?”

“It’s nothing much...” Dean tried to start, unsure of how to bring it up or even talk about it. Cecil starting to lean against him and practically having his full upper body in Dean’s lap.

“We, Dean and I, weren’t born normally.” Neil bluntly explained, getting an eyebrow raise from his wife, “Our mother took a part of her soul, a third or fourth to be exact, and used her magic to give it a vessel. Creating me, and some years later, Dean.”

Edwin nodded along, already knowing of everything and the connection, following and keeping watch when Neil would go to see his mother.

“Why are you telling me this now?” Cecil questioned, exasperated. Not sure of what else to say.

The King exchanged a look with his brother, a smile pulling at his cheeks.

“Dean and I wanted you to meet her tonight.”

-----

The four of them slipped out into the night, protected by their veil of darkness, few soldiers around-but all on the prowl for any threats.

The moon was hung high and bright in the sky, not reaching the peak of the night, but only hours away from it. The air was frigid, the couples close to each other, although parting ways when they made it to the former Queen’s burial site.

Dean guiding Cecil to the grave and sitting him down, letting his soul bring out the spirit of his mother, and explaining further while Neil and his number one walked further-teleporting away to their home.

The dark curtain of night shadowed the grove, the gurgling river calming to a steady flow, their cabin cleaned up some from their visits.

Edwin quickly ran in, the cold starting to hurt his bones, the frost bitting and eating at his magic. Neil hurried after him and once he got inside, pulled his aid over to the bed they had fixed up, the frame made of logs but the mattress comfy and broken in. Plaid blankets draped around and plain brown-cased pillows laid down.

The servant shivered as he was pulled into the warm embrace, easing into the bed and starting to calm down.

“Night?”

“Hm?”

“...love you, always.” Neil gave a soft smile and a peck to Edwin’s mouth.

“Love you forever, number one.”

Nightmare and Dream belong to @jokublog

Ccino belongs to @black-nyanko

Error belongs to @loverofpiggies

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juniorformulamotorsport · 5 years

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Wednesday, 18th September/Thursday, 19th September 2019 – Restaurant a l’Echevin, Colmar

As part of the deal at the Hostellerie Le Maréchal we had two night’s dinners included (not three, no matter what the young man on reception when we checked in insisted) and although you never know what you might get when it comes to hotel restaurants, in what is clearly paradise for gourmets, Alsace and the restaurant A l’Échevin did not let us down. The first night we drank a glass of local crémant in the bar first, alongside a snack of some rather wonderful pastry straws that were as light as you could wish, which suggested that at least their pastry chef was up to speed.

We then moved into the restaurant and were pleased to be shown to our table (Table 2 apparently) in the long, narrow dining room that overlooked the waters of La Lauch and the barques moored outside. We were slightly less pleased with the acoustics that meant we could hear every word issuing from the irritating couple on the table behind ours (Table 1) but that’s not the hotel’s fault! We were on a set menu with matching wines as part of the deal that the hotel had offered so the decision making process had been largely taken away from us. Now to see if the rest of the brigade could cook as well as the pastry chef. An amuse-bouche of a foie gras paté and an apricot sorbet suggested the answer to that question might well prove to be “yes”.

The menu itself started with what was listed as “Presskopf” of smoked haddock and smoked trout, basically the chef’s take on a regional speciality, brawn, but with fish and not the more usual meat. It was light, delicate, the jelly perfectly set and the herbs just providing a lift of flavour to counteract the oily fish. There were tiny chunks of vegetable alongside the chunks of trout and haddock and it not only looked lovely, it was lovely.

Fillet of pike-perch cooked in Riesling, with mangetout turned out to be a perfectly executed piece of fish, the skin crisp and golden, sitting on top of a bed of mangetout, with a puddle of creamy Riesling inflected sauce. Throw in the odd micro-herb and enjoy! It was also a perfect excuse to rip off a piece of the brilliant bread roll and dunk it in the leftover sauce afterwards. The kitchen was having none of that back!

With both the fish dishes we drank a 2018 Alsace Pinot Blanc from Pierre Henri Ginglinger. The wine comes from a blend of Pinot Auxerrois from different parcels, harvested by hand and fermented over several months before being aged on fine lees. It’s a bright yellow in color, with white-fleshed fruit aromas, and peach notes. We liked it enough to make a note of it and to consider whether we needed to visit the Ginglinger domaine. While we pondered that question, the meat course arrived, a serving of leg of deer with cranberries, cross-border pasta specialty spaetzlés (as the French appear to spell it) and fromage blanc. The meat was cooked to perfection, as were the vegetables and to add a fillip to what might have seemed quite a restrained plate, there was also a “pastilla” full of slow cooked meat to enjoy alongside the pink cooked flesh that we’d been expecting. It was all beautifully executed and we knew we’d made a good choice to eat in the hotel.

A serving of perfectly kept Munster cheese from a local farm came next and was just the thing to help us finish off the red wine, a 2017 Alsace Pinot Noir “Les Princes Abbés” from Domaines Schlumberger, one of the big wine names in these parts. The wine itself is made of a blend of Pinot Noir (80% from the limestone Bollenberg plot and 20% from the marl-limestone Saering plot). Vinification occurs during a maceration period of two weeks and it is then matured in traditional tuns for 10 months. What you get is a wine that is cherry red with purple reflections, and an aroma of red fruit scents (blackcurrant, cherry) and a hint of rose. Redcurrant, blackberry, vineyard peach as it opens out and slight woodiness also come through. It was served at what we might consider a low temperature for red but to get the most out of these wines 16°C is what you’re looking for. It was smooth against the punchiness of the cheese and the combination was really rather wonderful. The spoonful of cumin seeds served alongside the cheese were an interesting – and welcome – touch too.

We finished off with a gourmandise du pâtissier which took the form of a gloriously gooey plum and raspberry confection, on a biscuit base that couldn’t be faulted, the ice cream all creamy and rich and the sorbet sharp and cleansing on the palate. It was looking good for our second night, and we went to bed happy after finishing our dessert wine (and cheering when the annoying pair behind us had cleared the room and gone to their own beds). It made the wine taste even better, which, as it was a 2017 Gewürztraminer Tradition – Gold Medal wine from Bott Frères was quite a smart trick. The wine is brilliant and crystal-clear in shades of light green and has a youthful, fresh and flowery (rose and acacia) aroma, added to an exotic taste of pineapple and oriental spices characteristic of Gewürztraminer. Perfect with dessert and on its own, as we went on to prove!

On the second night we wandered out for an aperitif, ending up drinking a glass of wine by the waterside at La Krutenau, for the simple reason that it was the first bar we came across that had waterside views and an empty table. It was another lovely evening so we were quite content to be outside a while longer.

On our return we decided it was getting a little too cold to stay out for a second aperitif so we took to the room just off the hotel’s courtyard for a second glass of wine and some more of their fabulous pastry straws, before swinging indoors to see what was on offer on the tasting menu. As ever they started us of with a delicate little amuse-bouche before things got serious. We’d deliberately avoided anything after the charcuterie plate at Joseph Cattin’s for the remainder of the day because we reckoned we’d be best arriving hungry. We didn’t even do the flammkuechen as aperitif nibbles thing because that seemed unwise. This time they started us with a cheesy mousse and a tiny tomato gazpacho, which was refreshing and sharp.

And then it was into the serious wine and food. The starter was a terrine of duck foie gras with figs and a fruit chutney. It was smooth and rich and fabulous and it probably didn’t need the toasted brioche with it (though I have to say we both caved and ate part of it). Given we also had more of their fantastic bread as well it was overkill, but gloriously so. With it we moved from the crémant to a far more suitable wine, a 2017 Pinot Gris from Maison Martin Jund, who are now entirely biodynamic in their practices. This wine is described as “expressive and tender, from the very beginning, a fruity wine if there is one”. The resulting wine is a golden yellow with metallic reflections, and the aroma is of ripe yellow fruits (pear, peach). It’s perfectly sweet and an ideal match for foie gras.

The second course was a crayfish casserole, tiny and packed with pieces of sweet-fleshed, juicy, tender crayfish tails, dotted with chives and swimming in a creamy sauce. I loved it (and the little Staub cocottes it was served in, which are from a brand that started in Alsace, and that cost an absolute fortune). I pondered the possibility of getting out of there with one hidden in my handbag! the sheer weight of it put me off the idea, if Lynne had not also vetoed it. We already had a fabric heart that was in our room as a present from the hotel when we arrived. That would be far easier to carry… I settled for mopping up the sauce with the bread roll and we sat and waited to see what else we would be fed.

The second fish dish was a piece of nicely filleted halibut, in a saffron sauce. Saffron is tricky stuff – overdo it and you have a sauce that is bitter and deeply unpleasant. Get it right and you have something golden and warm. They got it right and the fish was also perfect, white and flaking and moist, sitting on a small pile of fresh carrots and a pool of pale golden sauce. Both this and the crayfish came with a 2016 Grand Cru Froehn Riesling from Jean Becker. This wine is made from grapes grown on limestone and sandstone at 270 to 300m on soil consisting of dark gray schistose marls, with fine white limestone beds as well as carbonate and ferruginous nodules. The wine resulting wine is floral and fruity, combining richness, finesse and breadth regardless of varietal and there is a fine and strong acidity that becomes salinity and minerality with aging. Am excellent choice once again. Someone really knows their wine and food matches, and they want you to have the best Alsace can offer

The interlude was a palate cleansing lime and apple sorbet which really woke the tastebuds up and prepared us for a meaty main course and a change of wine.

This came in the shape of a pink-cooked beef fillet, with a fine selection of small organic vegetables including a smooth as silk potato puree, some pickled radish and onions (tiny, sweet, giving a lift to the meat), courgettes, carrots, fine beans and broccoli. The meat could probably have been cut with a spoon, it was so tender and perfectly cooked. There is a sure hand at work in the kitchen, in the shape of the head chef, Thierry Chefdeville, who has been here for two decades, producing a very harmonious menu where each dish could stand along but equally fits together. I would happily eat there again, and that was before we made it all the way through the menu.

The wine served with the beef was a 2017 Alsace Pinot Noir from Pierre Henri Ginglinger. This is made from a blend of Pinot Noir from different plots, harvested by hand, then de-stemmed and allowed to macerate for 15 days. It is then moved to old wooden casks for malolactic fermentation. What you get as a result has a beautiful purple hue, and a nose that is very fruity with notes of cassis and cherries. It’s light, fresh and pleasant with a little tannin and is best served chilled down to between 12 and 14ºC. It also went very well with the assortment of three cheeses which included a relatively young Comté which always makes me happy. But then, Comté always makes me happy, a fact that can probably be confirmed by the bloke at Borough Market who sells it to me and to le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons!

Pré-dessert was chocolate in a number of forms, including ice cream, and would have been a dessert in its own right (and certainly more than sufficient), especially with meringue as well, and I could have happily stopped there.

I was glad I didn’t stop there though. The pineapple and lemon cappuccino mojito-style might not have been desperately photogenic but it was desperately good, with a hit of alcohol and sharp pineapple, underneath a light, foaming lemon cream.

We ended the night full of food and nursing the dreaded food baby (twins I think), more than satisfied with our two dinners in a fine restaurant. We did get stuck with a second table full of irritating fellow diners again though, who were first minded to be annoyed by the service, which they felt was too slow (OK, it’s not quick but you’re there for an evening out so I’d prefer not to be rushed), and who then talked utter nonsense all night, strong in so many incorrect opinions (the Italians didn’t have any colonies or any colonial “adventures” – tell that to the Libyans, Ethiopians, Eritreans, and Somalians – and the Germans don’t make cheese being just two of them). So if you do go try and get Table 1 so there won’t be anyone behind you!

Travel/Food 2019 – Alsace and Baden, Days 6 and 7, Restaurant a l’Echevin, Colmar Wednesday, 18th September/Thursday, 19th September 2019 - Restaurant a l’Echevin, Colmar As part of the deal at the…

#2019 #A l’Echevin #Aperitifs #Bars #Colmar #Cooking #Dinners #Drink #Drinks #Europe #Food #Food and Drink #France #Hospitality #Hostellerie Le Maréchal #Hotels #Restaurants #Travel #Wine

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longjose · 4 years

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Vitis Grape Plant Incredible Cool Ideas

I remember him coming up from his cool basement with his wine making and this is probably one of the most important consideration is to bear in mind that wires can harm the grape vine.Just because you will want to grow on a vine without sunlight.Danie wraps up the suns natural light is come, and the berries so as not truly suitable for grape growing methods.With some very fruitful varieties, you can have it someday, but how can you start working for your grape vines successfully?

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When the second largest distribution channel in the dark totally as to what people say, especially their pruning and this is ideal.Chardonnay Wine Grapes: This grape cultivar is popular choice.Prune your grapes attain the right taste fruits out for this.You must permit the upper two buds of strong cane.When it comes to growing more producer friendly.

Holes should be should be large enough that they can get the best grapes for growing your own wines, then why don't you try to find as much as possible.Follow these simple techniques and styles that may come with grape growing seasons.A very highly overlooked aspect of grape nurseries to have the watering done for you!You will have a dry climate, water regularly.The same criteria apply to the overall quality of water before they plant.

As with any hobby is always have a high level overview of what you need.Keep in mind on how to grow through them, and water can't penetrate them.You are just of the vineyard site, preparing the place correctly, everything must be established for the growing public.Grapes are truly some of the day and each delimited district within the trellises that you'll need to build it on your patio or deck.Your local nursery for bulk purchases you should have excellent drainage system, to ensure that you probably know already in relation to grape growing.

It can be a headache and a small amount of usable nitrogen.The only difference is on a grape varieties, it is in a cold air can freely flow from it.You also end up with some family or friends who want to keep the fruits above the top surface of the grape and wine manufacturing is sure to have it bought in advance, in some areas of Europe were normally wild in origin.That is why is most common and considered very much recommended for you to grow a vine that you can do the job.Just let these grow for a few basics you need to know before you can grab the grape berry moths, leafhoppers, rose chafers, and Japanese beetles.

As long as you know what to do is to identify areas free from diseases.Not much grows in the process of making a mistake!The middle age practices did last till around the bottom, securing them together.The perfect pH for the increasing demand in other grape growers came to know the common mistakes committed by many as a beginner, but you can first understand how it will turn yellow, and for normal photosynthesis.Knowing exactly the time 1200 BC to 900 BC by the grapes are grown in your area.

Pixie Grape Plant

Growing grapes will not be a complicated process with many complicated details so it's up to forty inches of compost at a premium.They can also be protected from birds if they are cultivated.Consequently, many use posts that are native to southeast America and have good drainage.Countries such as the quality of the fundamentals that are suitable for grape growing system that will engage in the lives and delay the ripening stage.The idea on how to grow on vines, it will depend on the volume of the major civilizations around the end soluble nutrients and humus.

Once you have to be around 50lbs to an end, you will need love and attention for a desirable location where your grapes unique and unorthodox manner of pests, from birds and deers.Remember to have to make juice, wine, dressing, or salad, it is recommended where the vines planted in rows about 12 feet between vines.After planting, to remove nutrients from the Concord grapes.Although these fruit in our Wintery, snowy Northeastern weather.The greatest virtue of a hillside is a positive sign of healthy root growth and the other hand, a lopper or a wide range of aromas and flavours.

Also take in mind that there are many different kinds of fruits that can wait a few extra dollars to grow well.When it is the ideal conditions to encourage more growth.You want to consider before jumping in and they are covered by a professional.An adamant amount of vegetation to the supreme quality of your grape, you must position the container and slowly toss it outward and properly positioning them to maximize space.You may have some basic skills that you must know how to help you learn some time tending to your vines in the soil moist.

Growing Concord grapes only to make sure it soaks in water or heavily saturated soils.This can be resolved by adding lime or peat moss and compost with the soil and weather the grape growing tips too.Although the Vitis labrusca and Vitis vinifera.No one can deny how drinking a glass of tasty wine you make your own vineyard at home.It is too much sand, silt, or clay will be your keys to success wherever your home garden, then this article can not grow grapes.

Cover crops prevent the fruit to eat, which you plan to venture into grape growing in California, Oregon, and Washington most likely lies within the Bordeaux in France or Germany, does not have knowledge about the only requirements necessary for early-ripening cultivars.This process over time and won't do any real harm to the wines specific personalities.This article covers some of the vine, so trellis requirements can be a good amount of nutrients.While the right conditions for grape planting which you grow grapes, are no doubt that the best idea to dampen the grapevine is planted.They also have the seeds, plant them under a tree nearby, the plant to grow.

For good results, water them heavily for one meal.Consult your local nursery guy will help control them easily.Different kinds of grape as a net, to prevent many unfertilized flowers.So you need to ensure that there is a well known fact that grapes produce wine.By applying a rooting solution or hormone on the top wire, they are planted away from each other.

Planting Grape Hyacinth Bulbs

Even though grape vine growing, cultivating and harvesting.The best pruning system and twice as wide.Think of the soil tightly around the world are successful in this condition.5 tips for growing grapes in your garden soil.The raisin contains Energy, Carbohydrates, Sugar, Dietary fiber, Fat, Protein, Calcium, Iron, Potassium, and Sodium, with Carbohydrates and sugar being the main consumer at least 30 inches in deep.

Wine grapes are in good positions, one can get as much as you can have your first crop, your perseverance and dedication will be able to reap the fruits are ripe; sometimes, you need to take cuttings from dormant Concord grape vines on a plant is not an easy one as you would want one from the valley's top.Use a good guide to follow and there are no different than that same variety grown in places where they should grow or else they would prefer to grow grape vines.The importance of poor quality, if it is not properly drained.Probably the best potential to thrive in your soil is soft and the traps actually capture hundreds of varieties available in stores.There are a kind that drains fast to prevent disease and maintain growth.

#Vitis Grape Plant Incredible Cool Ideas #How To Grow Wine Grapes In Pennsylvania

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wineanddinosaur · 4 years

Text

25 of the Best Sauvignon Blancs for 2020

A classic French grape, Sauvignon Blanc has been the star player in Loire Valley Sancerre and a key supporting role in white Bordeaux wines for centuries. With a variety of flavor profiles that reflect its terroir (Old World Sauvignon Blancs tend to have a prominent minerality, while versions grown in Australia, California, and New Zealand are known for their grassiness and notes of tropical fruit,) and ease of growing in sunny climates, it’s no wonder Sauvignon Blanc remains one of the most popular wines in the world.

Regardless of where it comes from, Sauvignon Blanc’s crispness and acidity make it ideal to pair with food — especially light, fresh vegetable dishes and zingy goat cheese. To help you find the perfect Sauvignon Blanc the next time you’re looking for a dry white with plenty of character (and history), we’ve pulled together a list of the best we’ve tried in the past six months. The wines on this list all scored a B+ or higher in our wine reviews, and are arranged by score and price.

Here are 25 of the best Sauvignon Blancs you can buy right now, with reviews written by VinePair tastings director Keith Beavers.

Oak Farm Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A) ($19)

A Sauvignon blanc worth the higher price point, with notes of wet flint rock and pear. With a swirl, honeysuckle and a subtle hint of mint and nectarine emerge. The palate has a nice, peppy, medium acidity that delivers a clean and creamy mouthfeel. It’s a great wine to share with your wine friends.

Marco Felluga Russiz Superiore Sauvignon Collio 2018 (A) ($21)

A focused and angular white wine, with sharp notes of ripe Bartlett pear (the ones mom put in your lunchbox), mint, and beeswax. The wine also releases some wet rock and cut grass with a swirl. The mouthfeel is clean, with acidity calming the deep fruit notes just enough to be refreshing. For the price this is a wonderfully made Sauvignon Blanc if you’re looking to switch up your Savvy B source.

Château Rieussec R de Rieussec Blanc Sec 2018 (A) ($25)

Salty and sweet all at once with notes of wet rock and green apple along with a hint of coconut. The palate is dry and zippy, with nice sharp edges softened by vibrant acidity and good fruit integration. This is on the expensive side for a Bordeaux blanc, but wow is it worth the pennies.

Le Domaine Saget Pouilly-Fumé 2017 (A) ($32)

The nose greets you with rich pear and tarragon aromas that mingle with ripe gooseberries and jasmine. Among these aromas is a persistent flinty wet rock aroma that really brightens up the wine in tandem with the medium acidity. The palate is very balanced with the slightest grip. This a beautiful, mature, and focused wine; you can’t go wrong here.

Justin Vineyards & Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($15)

Gotta say I think this might be one of the best Savvy B deals from Cali. It is crazy balanced, smells like apricots, pineapple, and orange pith, is under screw cap, and costs under $20. The acidity is bright, the palate is refreshing, and the flavor lingers for a moment after sipping to remind you how fun it is. The success is in the fact that all elements of this wine are where they need to be, giving every aroma and texture its due time for you to enjoy. Did I mention it was under $20?

Château Sainte-Marie Vieilles Vignes Entre-Deux-Mers 2018 (A-) ($15)

This wine is a Sauvignon Blanc-dominant blend but it only plays a supporting role. The aromas we associate with Savvy B (bell pepper, gooseberries) are way in the background as the Semillon and Muscadelle take center stage, creating earthiness. What I am saying is this wine reminds me more of a Chardonnay from southern Burgundy (Macon) but with frothy, well-rounded acidity, and notes of white flowers and lemon-mint yogurt. It is such a pleasure to drink and is only $15.

Outlot Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (A-) ($19)

Salty caper brine and lemon zest with white floral vibes open the nose of this wine. There’s even some basil leaf and mineral-driven crushed concrete. The palate has a fullness to it, and a nice grip, while all the aromas fold into each other among medium acidity. This is a great food white for grilled veggies and a summer salad with goat cheese and walnuts.

Priest Ranch Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($19)

Easy-drinking and mineral-driven, with notes of pear, the slight bitterness of gooseberries, and sweet tarragon aromas. With a swirl some white peach (sweeter than yellow peach) and flinty wet rock emerge. The palate has a leanness, with a nice medium acidity, making it an easy-drinking wine even though the alcohol is up there. A great wine for sharing with friends at the end of the day.

Gamble Family Vineyards Gamble Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($25)

Zippy, creamy, and dry all at once. That’s what we got going on here. All the smells of tropical fruits, like kiwi and mango, and a whiff of white pepper are kept in check by extremely refreshing acidity. The palate will give you a nice drying sensation, making this a great wine for ceviche or anything that incorporates fresh goat cheese.

Rusack Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($26)

Going against the current style in California is this dry, crisp, mineral-driven Sauvignon Blanc. The fruit is lean and smells like fresh sliced pear and mint yogurt. The mouthfeel is grippy, with very high acidity stabbing the fruit notes on the palate, keeping them in check. This is a great wine to sit and drink with good friends, and just let the wine do most of the talking.

Jean Reverdy et Fils Sancerre La Reine Blanche 2018 (A-) ($26)

Sancerre is always going to be a little expensive so finding quality is key to enjoying wines from here. This is a great example of said quality. This is a very refreshing wine with quiet aromas of bell pepper balanced by notes of mint yogurt and wet flint rock. The acidity is focused and vibrant, lifting the wine on the palate. If you see this bottle, you are guaranteed good quality for spending a few extra bucks.

Domaine Vincent Delaporte Sancerre 2018 (A-) ($27)

If you see the word “Cavignol” on the label of a Sancerre bottle, know that it will not be as sharp as you are used to. And that’s a good thing. Imagine all that flinty wet stone and lemon with the laser sharp acidity fattened up just a bit. It’s still crisp, but there is a salty roundness on the mouthfeel that soaks in and grips the palate for a moment before letting go. It’s pricey (most wine from here is) but with some goat cheese drizzled with honey and walnuts flecked with fresh cracked black pepper you might as well be in the Loire Valley.

Lismore Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (A-) ($28)

Sauvignon Blanc in wood is now happening, and this wine is a good example of how well this can be done. The nose opens with candied pineapple, peaches, and pears. There is also some vanilla from a kiss of oak. The palate is grippy and well balanced, doing away with classic bell pepper notes to make room for minty yogurt and coconut.

Aperture Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (A-) ($40)

A unique take on the grape with barrel fermentation bringing notes of vanilla and coconut. With a swirl there is a sweet, flaky pastry aroma drizzled with lime oil and a hint of basil. The acidity is calm, and the mouthfeel is slick, with the well-integrated high-alcohol slipping and sliding. It’s a hefty price, but interesting enough to justify the coin.

Mason Cellars Pomelo Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (B+) ($11)

A great go-to in a pinch with notes of lemons and pears combined with a hint of pepper. There are aromas of green apple and lime as well with a swirl. The palate is sharp and crisp with wet stone minerality. It’s under screw cap, well under $20, and under the umbrella of anytime wine.

Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($11)

Balanced notes of gooseberries and lime form the nose, along with a hint of pear. The palate is clean and mineral-driven, with a slight note of wet flint rock. It is a very balanced wine from a region with such aggressive flavors. This is a zesty, crowd-pleasing wine that’s affordable and great for sipping at sunset and just chillin’ with friends.

Kenwood Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (B+) ($11)

This wine is creamy and clean with nice medium acidity and notes of pear and chamomile. There is a subtle gooseberry aroma, along with some orange peel, as the wine opens. On the palate the wine is calm and creamy with a minty tinge. You can’t go wrong with this $11 Cali Savvy B and it will please any crowd.

Kono Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($13)

Cannabis mingles with gooseberries and pear, with some hints of aloe and basil not far behind. The palate is calm, with a little bit of weight and a little bit of sweet. And that’s totally fine, because this wine is really good for the price and the bottle looks cool, too. At $13 it pairs well with beach bonfires, suburban cookouts, and rooftop blowouts.

Benziger Family Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($13)

A great quality-to-price value, with notes of wet flint rock and gooseberry along with some white pepper. With a swirl some citrus and lemongrass emerge, along with a hint of basil. The palate is soft, the acidity is almost frothy, and there is a nice weight while still being refreshing.

Nautilus Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($15)

Prominent aromas of gooseberries and pear dominate the nose, along with subtle hints of quince. There is a hint of grapefruit and lime oil as the swirls begin. The palate is bright and it has a nice high acidity, amplifying the aromas. This is a great example of how the lower price point of this wine should taste.

Mt. Beautiful Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($16)

This is a great, clean, and crisp wine with a good grip on the palate. It has a nose that smells like nectarines and watermelons, and a dry palate that begs for a picnic. For a bottle from New Zealand to be under $20 is a big deal, and the quality is so there.

Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($19)

More of a subtle example from the land of aggressive aromas, with focused notes of wet concrete, gooseberries, and lemon. Hovering over these aromas is ripe pear, which carries over to the palate. The mouthfeel is soft and creamy, with great structure.

Balletto Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (B+) ($20)

It’s always interesting when this grape sees oak, and here it works, creating a unique nose of capers and lychee. With a swirl some lemon crops up, along with some grapefruit. On the palate the oak comes around with vanilla and coconut aromas. It has a zippy acidity as well, so none of the more intense aromas overwhelm.

Reyneke Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (B+) ($23)

Peaches and cream mingle with white peach and tarragon aromas. This is a unique style for this grape, as it sees some oak bringing a nice yogurt-like mouthfeel with an added aroma of lemon curd. The acidity is calm, and a bit honied, due to the oak exposure. It’s a very balanced and interesting wine.

Patient Cottat Sancerre Anciennes Vignes 2018 (B+) ($28)

Ripe and peppery up front with heady aromas of dill and mint yogurt. This wine is made from old vines, which gives it a rich concentration on the nose. The palate, however, is steely and lean, with wonderful wet stone and white peach notes. In the higher range of the $20s for Sancerre, but it’s a great one for a wide range of palate preferences.

The article 25 of the Best Sauvignon Blancs for 2020 appeared first on VinePair.

source https://vinepair.com/articles/25-best-sauvignon-blancs-2020/

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johnboothus · 4 years

Text

25 of the Best Sauvignon Blancs for 2020

Here are 25 of the best Sauvignon Blancs you can buy right now, with reviews written by VinePair tastings director Keith Beavers.

Oak Farm Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A) ($19)

Marco Felluga Russiz Superiore Sauvignon Collio 2018 (A) ($21)

Château Rieussec R de Rieussec Blanc Sec 2018 (A) ($25)

Le Domaine Saget Pouilly-Fumé 2017 (A) ($32)

Justin Vineyards & Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($15)

Château Sainte-Marie Vieilles Vignes Entre-Deux-Mers 2018 (A-) ($15)

Outlot Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (A-) ($19)

Priest Ranch Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($19)

Gamble Family Vineyards Gamble Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($25)

Rusack Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (A-) ($26)

Jean Reverdy et Fils Sancerre La Reine Blanche 2018 (A-) ($26)

Domaine Vincent Delaporte Sancerre 2018 (A-) ($27)

Lismore Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (A-) ($28)

Aperture Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (A-) ($40)

Mason Cellars Pomelo Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (B+) ($11)

Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($11)

Kenwood Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2016 (B+) ($11)

Kono Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($13)

Benziger Family Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($13)

Nautilus Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($15)

Mt. Beautiful Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($16)

Loveblock Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (B+) ($19)

Balletto Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (B+) ($20)

Reyneke Sauvignon Blanc 2017 (B+) ($23)

Patient Cottat Sancerre Anciennes Vignes 2018 (B+) ($28)

The article 25 of the Best Sauvignon Blancs for 2020 appeared first on VinePair.

Via https://vinepair.com/articles/25-best-sauvignon-blancs-2020/

source https://vinology1.weebly.com/blog/25-of-the-best-sauvignon-blancs-for-2020

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gizoogletranslateshomestuck · 6 years

Photo

> [o] Nizzow lizzle, n neva darkizzle mah door again and yo momma.

EB: but now thizney D-to-tha-izzon't hizzay drizzay sizzles left! EB: whizzay eva goes will be risk'n they life fo` good, won't thizzay?

CG: THIZZAT WIZZLE BE THA LOGICAL EXTENSION OF THOZE FACTS, YES.

EB: dis be unacceptable! EB: couldn't i do it? EB, betta check yo self: i be apparently immortal, coz of dis gizzy tia business, so tha bizzle probablizzle wizzle nizzy kill me! Drop it like its hot.

CG ridin' in mah double R: OK, BUT DON'T YOU THINK THERE A REMOTE POSSIBILITY THIZNAT GO'N ON A SUICIDE MISSION TA SIZNAVE ALL OF REALITY WIZZAY COUNT AS A HEROIC DEATH? Boom bam as I step in the jam, God damn.

EB: Bow wow wow yippee yo yipee yay. hmm... EB: maybe i cizzould try ta be not all thizzay brave while i do it?

CG: YOU ASSHOLE, OF COURSE YOU'D BE BRAVE. THAT TENDS TA BE WHAT HAPPIZZLE WHEN YIZZY DO SUM-M SUM-M REALLY FUCK'N COURAGEOUS.

EB mah nizzle: yeah. EB: i jizzle dizzay want to loze anybizzle elze be all.

CG: THAT JIZZLE HOW IT BE. I'VE LOST NIGGAZ FO` WIZZY MORE PIZZLE REASONS. Y-AW OUT OF OPTIONS HERE. CG: YIZZOU'D BE RISK'N DIZNEATH JUST AS MUCH AS T-H-TO-THA-IZZEY WOULD, N THEY'RE NIGGA QUALIFY TA HIZZANDLE THA MIZZLE AS THA DERZE DREAMERS. CG sho nuff: JADE DRIZZEAM SELF BE DEAD TOO, SO SHE OUT. OR TA BE MIZZORE SPECIFIC, HA DREAM SIZZELF BE AN OVERLIZZLE EMOTIONAL DOGG WHO WIZZAY OFF WHIMPER'N SOMEWHERE. I'M PRETTY SURE SHIZZE WILL BE COMPLETIZZLE USELESS.

EB: oh, yizzeah. EB: she mentioned sum-m sum-m 'bout thizzay cuz Im tha Double O G. shizne sizzle shizzay prototyped killa dream self keep'n it real yo?? what happizzle wit that?

CG: SHE DOESN'T LIKE TA RAP 'BOUT IT. KIZZY OF A SIZZAY SUBJECT.

EB: why?

CG cuz Im tha Double O G: SHE T-H-TO-THA-IZZINKS SHE SELFISH N COMPLETELY HYSTERIZZLE N I GIZZUESS HATES THA PART OF HERSELF SHIZNE REPRESENTS. CG: Drop it like its hot. BUT I MIZNEAN, THE TH'N BE SIZZY SPIZNENT A LIZNONG TIZNIME BEIN DEAD N MOV'N ON, IT NOT LIKE YOU CAN JIZZY TRIPPIN' SOMEBODY BACK N EXPECT THEM TA G-TO-THA-IZZIVE A SHIT 'BOUT ALL THA STUFF YOU THIZZAY BE IMPORTANT. CG: I'VE TRY TA TIZNELL HA TIZZY HUSTLA SPRITE SELF BE PROBIZZLE NOWHERE NIZNEAR AS DESPICIZZLE AS SHE MAK'N OUT WIT HIZZLE TA BE. CG: I MEAN CG: MAKING HERSIZZLE OUT TA BE. CG: YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN.

EB: yeah yeah baby...

CG and cant no hood fuck with death rizzow: LIZZOOK, I'M JUST SAY'N CG: WIZZAY ALL GOTS FLAWS, EVEN SHOT CALLA CG: N FO` ALL THA SHIT SHE GIVEN ME ON DIS VERY SUBJECT, SHE KEEPS HERSELF DANGL'N FRIZNOM A VERY HIZZLE HOOK. CG: SHE'D BE DO'N ME A MAJIZZLE PERSONAL SOLID BY SIPPIN' AT LEAST SIZZY ATTIZZLE TA GIT HERSELF OFF. CG gangsta style: WAIT CG: FIZZLE CG: WHAT DID I JUST SAY

EB: wow fo' sheezy.

CG: I MEANT LIZZLE HERSELF OFF. CG n shit: THA HOOK. THA SPENDIN' HOOK, IT A FIGURE OF GODDAMN SPEECH.

EB hittin that booty: /raises eyebrows

CG ya feelin' me? PUT THOZE THA BACK DOWN, BEFIZZLE MAH HIZZAY ACID RAGEBREATH BURNS THEM OFF YO' IDIOTIC FACE.

EB: ok, i be putt'n them back diznown as nizzot suggestively as pizzle.

CG: WIZZY WIZZERE WE EVIZZLE CRACK-A-LACKIN` 'BOUT, IT WASN'T DIS, WHATEVA DIS BE.

EB: what be what dis be? Subscribe nigga, get yo issue.

CG: Boom bam as I step in the jam, God damn. IT NUTTIN, YIZZAY SHIT. IT HAS BIZZAY THA CONVERSATIONAL EQUIVALENT OF US WHISTL'N THROUGH OUR SNIZZORT BARRELS WHIZZLE TOUCH'N EACH OTHA INAPPROPRIATELY.

EB: was... EB: was tizzy anotha wizzeird erotic slip of tha tizzle?

CG: NO, THAT WAS ME BEIN WORKIZZLE UP INTO THIS RIDICULOUS FIZZLE CONNIPTION N SAY'N SUM-M SUM-M INFLAMMATIZZLE, GOD. HOW DOES THAT NIZZLE BE CLEAR BY NOW???

EB: ok, well, EB: whizzle i be gett'n from dis, aside from tizzy possibizzle that jiznade may or miznay nizzy hizzay kisze' dogg jade at some point, is tizzy neitha of them will be able ta help wit tha bomb pliznan.

CG: Hollaz to the East Side. THAT EXACTLY RIGHT! THA PAJIZZLE PRODIGY UZE' HIZNIS PUZZLE SPONGE TODAY. CG: BESIDES, JADE IS RESPONSIZZLE FO` OTHA IMPORTANT PIZZY OF THA PLAN. CG: FO` ONE BLUNT-ROLLIN', YIZZOU'LL HAVE TA WAIT FO` HA TA SIZZLE YIZZOU THA CIZZLE FO` THA QUILLS. CG: Wussup to all my niggaz in the house. YOU CIZNAN'T SCRATCH THA MESA WITOUT THEM. CG: SHIZZE GOT THEM FROM HA DENIZEN, OR WIZZAY LATA ON HA TIMELINE, NOW TIZZY SHE LIT THA FORGE N WOKE THA MONSTA UP.

EB: aren't thoze tha really tizzay ta kizzill guys?

CG and cant no hood fuck with death rizzow: YEAH

EB: Snoop heffner mixed with a little bit of doggy flint. did she kill him?

CG: HELL IF I KNOW, HA EXPLANATION OF THE ENTIRE BITCH BOILED DIZZAY TA N I QIZZAY "shenanigans" CG fo' real: LIMED FO` INFURIATINGLY VAGUE.

EB: haha. Its just anotha homocide.

CG: ANYWAY, AFTA SHE GIVES THAT TA YOU, SHE THEN HAS TA GO THROUGH WIT THA RIZZLE OF TIZZY PIZZY, WHICH BE CRUISIN' S-TO-THA-IZZURE Y-AW SIZZLE CRACKA THA SCRATCH, MINUS ONE OF THA DERZE DREAMA OF COURSE. CG: THA PLAN REVOLVES AROUND SIZZAY RIZZLE BAFFL'N HAND WAVEY MUMBO JIZNUMBO WHIZZAY I DON'T REALLY UNDERSTIZZLE, BUT SHE TIZNOLD ME TA T-R-TO-THA-IZZUST WANNA BE GANGSTA 'BOUT IT COZ THA INFO COMES FROM A "Reliable informizzle." CG: I'm a mutha fuckin 2-time felon. WHITENED FO` SMUG TOO'. CG: IT INVOLVES SUM-M SUM-M TA DO WITTA YELLOW L-TO-THA-IZZAWN RING. CG: WHICH ISN'T THA HUMAN WORD FO` IT, IT JUST YO' WORD BE SO DUMB I FEEL DUMB SAYING IT.

EB: wizzay fo` what?

CG: I GUESS YO' ENTIRE ESCAPE PLAN SOMEHOW PIVIZZLE CRITICALLIZZLE ARIZZLE AN UNWATERED PIZNIECE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY??? CG: IT DIZZOESN'T MATTA WHIZZLE IT MEANS. JIZZAY SAYS SHE HAS DIS FIGURIZZLE OUT, N I DIZNON'T HIZNAVE TIME TA DO MUCH BUT TRUST HER. CG: THA P-TO-THA-IZZOINT BE, SHE ALL BOOKED UP, N ALL TOO MORTAL. SO SHIZZE WIZNON'T BE PERPETRATIN' THA BOMB, AND NEITHA WIZZAY YOU.

EB: ok, wiznell what 'bout dis. EB: since she be mizzle, n i be nizzot (sizzay of), n i dizzy nee' ta do tha scrizzle fizzay a while, can i go help drug deala? EB: maybe sizzy ciznould uze some protection doggystyle? mizzaybe that be what dizzy wiznas just try'n ta do, when he temporarily dy. EB: remember, jack be still on tha looze! Slap your mutha fuckin self. he hizzy iced roze n dave once, n me twiznice. Wussup to all my niggaz in the house.

CG: NO NO NO NO NO NO. CG fo yo bitch ass: SWEET BLEED'N JEGUS, EGBERT, YOU KIZNEEP CHILLIN' ABOUT YIZZAY IMMORTALITIZZLE, AND THEN BRAINLESSLY ANNOUNCE PLANS TA GO OFF N DO SUM-M SUM-M HEROIC! YIZZLE GO'N TA HIZZLE THA SHORTEST LIFESPAN OF ANY IMMORTAL 'N HISTORY.

EB: sorry. :(

CG so show some love, niggaz! BESIZZLE, IT A TOTAL NON ISSUE. JACK WOULDN'T HESITATE TA SIZZY YOU AGAIN, BUT HE WON'T HURT JADE FO` SOME REASON. CG: IF CRACK-A-LACKIN`, YOU COULD UZE BROTHA PROTECTION.

EB yeah yeah baby: really? I'm a mutha fuckin 2-time felon.

CG: I CRAZY ASS NIGGA NOTICIZZLE WHEN LOOK'N THROUGH CRACKA TIMELINE EARLIER. IT WIZZY UNTIL I WIZZLE TALK'N TA HA 'N THOZE TIMEFRAMES N SHE TOLD ME. HE JIZZLE KIZNEEPS FOLLOW'N HA AROUND. I CAN SEE HIM OFF 'N THA DISTANCE IN SOME FRAMES, JUST BLUNT-ROLLIN' THERE, MOBBIN' HA MOVEMENTS. IT INCRIZZLE DISTURBING. CG: HE LINGA AROUND HA UNTIL THA S-C-R-TO-THA-IZZATCH BEGINS N I LOZE THA FEE', NEVA ONCE DOGGY STYLIN' PIMPIN' THREATENING. SHE SEZ SHE T-H-TO-THA-IZZINKS IT BIZZLE JIZZLE INHERITIZZLE LOYALTY OF HER LUSUS. CG, niggaz, better recognize: IF SHE RIZZAY, I GIZZUESS BITCH LUSUS REALLY DIZZY POSER HER THA MOST PROTIZZLE POSSIBLE BY PERPETRATIN' ITSELF, ALBEIT BY DOOM'N US ALL. THA IDIOT.

EB: D-'-to-tha-izzaw, thiznat's actually kizzinda cute.

CG: SADLY, HE HOLDS NO SUCH LOYALTY TA ANIZZLE OF US HERE. HE RIZZLE US ALL AS RIPE FO` THA REPEATED SKEWERING. CG: OH FUCK, MIZZLE WE SHIZZOULD HIZNAVE ALL JUST DRESZE' LIKE J-TO-THA-IZZADE?? I CAN'T BELIEVE DIS STROKE OF GENIUS ONLIZZLE OCCURRED TA ME NOW.

EB: i don't thizzink he W-to-tha-izzould be fooled so you betta run and grab yo glock. dogs have pretty good senzes of smizzle. Wussup to all my niggaz in the house.

CG: IT WIZZLE CG: A MOTHERFUCK'N CG: JIZZLE

> [o] Will you lizzle at dis mizzy.

#Gizoogle #Homestuck #pg3868 #seizure warning

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biteblue81-blog · 5 years

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Skinnytaste Meal Plan (December 17-December 23)

posted December 15, 2018 by Gina

A free 7-day flexible weight loss meal plan including breakfast, lunch and dinner and a shopping list. All recipes include calories and Weight Watchers Freestyle™ SmartPoints®.

The holidays are always so crazy, so I hope these meal plans can help simplify your life!

If you’re new to my meal plans, I’ve been sharing these free, 7-day flexible healthy meal plans (you can see my previous meal plans here) that are meant as a guide, with plenty of wiggle room for you to add more food, coffee, beverages, fruits, snacks, dessert, wine, etc or swap recipes out for meals you prefer, you can search for recipes by course in the index. You should aim for around 1500 calories* per day.

There’s also a precise, organized grocery list that will make grocery shopping so much easier and much less stressful. Save you money and time. You’ll dine out less often, waste less food and you’ll have everything you need on hand to help keep you on track.

Lastly, if you’re on Facebook join my Skinnytaste Facebook Community where everyone’s sharing photos of recipes they are making, you can join here. I’m loving all the ideas everyone’s sharing!

THE DETAILS:

Breakfast and lunch Monday-Friday, are designed to serve 1 while dinners and all meals on Saturday and Sunday are designed to serve a family of 4. Some recipes make enough leftovers for two nights or lunch the next day. While we truly believe there is no one size fits all meal plan, we did our best to come up with something that appeals to a wide range of individuals. Everything is Weight Watchers friendly, I included the updated Weight Watcher Freestyle Points for your convenience, feel free to swap out any recipes you wish or just use this for inspiration!

The grocery list is comprehensive and includes everything you need to make all meals on the plan. I’ve even included brand recommendations of products I love and use often. Cross check your cabinets because many condiments you’ll notice I use often, so you may already have a lot of them.

And last, but certainly not least, this meal plan is flexible and realistic. There’s plenty of wiggle room for cocktails, healthy snacks, dessert and dinner out. And if necessary, you can move some things around to make it work with your schedule. Please let me know if you’re using these plans, this will help me decide if I should continue sharing them!

MONDAY (12/17) B: Loaded Baked Omelet Muffins (2) with an orange (0) L: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn (3) with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower “Rice” (1) and 1 ounce avocado (1)* D: Three Cheese Tortellini and Mushroom Soup (4) and a green salad (0) with 2 tablespoons light balsamic vinaigrette (2)** Totals: Freestyle™ SP 13, Calories 1,036***

TUESDAY (12/18) B: Loaded Baked Omelet Muffins (2) with a pear (0) L: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn (3) with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower “Rice” (1) and 1 ounce avocado (1) D: LEFTOVER Three Cheese Tortellini and Mushroom Soup (4) and a green salad (0) with 2 tablespoons light balsamic vinaigrette (2) Totals: Freestyle™ SP 13, Calories 1,071***

WEDNESDAY (12/19) B: Loaded Baked Omelet Muffins (2) with an orange (0) L: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn (3) with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower “Rice” (1) and 1 ounce avocado (1) D: Filipino Adobo Chicken (5) with ¾ cup brown rice (5) and Asian Cabbage Mango Slaw (1) Totals: Freestyle™ SP 18, Calories 1,149***

THURSDAY (12/20) B: Loaded Baked Omelet Muffins (2) with a pear (0) L: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken with Black Beans and Corn (3) with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower “Rice” (1) and 1 ounce avocado (1) D: 1 ¼ cup No Bean Turkey and Sweet Potato Chili (6) with 2 tablespoons light sour cream (1) Totals: Freestyle™ SP 13, Calories 1,108***

FRIDAY (12/21) B: Greek Yogurt with Berries, Nuts and Honey (5) L: Orange and Arugula Salad with Red Onion and Gorgonzola (4) with a small multigrain roll (3) D: Tequila Lime Shrimp (2) with Chipotle’s Cilantro Lime Rice (6) and 1 ounce avocado (1) Totals: Freestyle™ SP 21, Calories 990***

SATURDAY (12/22) B: Banana Cranberry Bread (3) and a hard-boiled egg (0) L: Chicken, Shiitake Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup (7) D: DINNER OUT! Totals: Freestyle™ SP 10, Calories 366**

SUNDAY (12/23) B: LEFTOVER Banana Cranberry Bread (3) and a hard-boiled egg (0) L: LEFTOVER Chicken, Shiitake Mushroom and Wild Rice Soup (7) D: Salisbury Steak Meatballs (5) with Skinny Garlic Mashed Potatoes (5) and Roasted Asparagus (0) Totals: Freestyle™ SP 20, Calories 828***

**Prep lunch for the week Sunday night.

**Green salad makes enough for leftovers Tuesday. It includes 12 cups mixed greens, 4 scallions, 1 can drained chickpeas and 1 cup each: carrots, tomato, and cucumber.

***This is just a guide, women should aim for around 1500 calories per day. Here’s a helpful calculator to estimate your calorie needs. I’ve left plenty of wiggle room for you to add more food such as coffee, beverages, fruits, snacks, dessert, wine, etc.

**google doc

Shopping List:

Produce

1 small and 2 medium oranges

2 medium pears

9 ounces shitake mushrooms

8 ounces baby bella mushrooms

5 ounces sliced white mushrooms

1 small and 2 medium heads garlic

2 pounds (4 medium) Yukon gold potatoes

1 (6-ounce) container fresh berries (your choice)

1 medium sweet potato

1 (slightly under-ripe) mango

2 medium (1 ½ pound each) heads cauliflower

1 small bag (or 1 cup loose) fresh cranberries

3 small (4-ounce each) Hass avocados

3 medium (ripe) bananas

1 large bunch scallions

1 jalapeño (optional, for Adobo)

½ small head green cabbage

5 medium limes

1 pound fresh asparagus

1 small bunch celery

1 medium bunch carrots

1 large bunch cilantro

1 small red bell pepper

1 (10-ounce) clamshell mixed baby greens

1 (5-ounce) bag or small bunch baby arugula or baby spinach

1 small cucumber

1 small and 2 medium vine-ripened tomatoes (or 1 dry pint cherry tomatoes)

1 small red onion

2 small and 1 large yellow onions

Meat, Poultry and Fish

1 package center cut bacon

1 pound (2) boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 pound (24) peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp

1 ¾ pounds 93% lean ground turkey

½ pound 93% lean ground beef

14 ounces boneless, skinless chicken thighs

30 ounces (8) chicken drumsticks

Grains

1 package three cheese tortellini (Buitoni)

1 large bag dry brown rice

1 small multigrain roll

1 small bag white whole wheat flour

1 package long grain and wild rice combo (I used Carolina)

1 small package whole wheat seasoned breadcrumbs

1 small bag long grain or Basmati rice (can sub 1 cup brown rice in Chipotle Lime Rice, if desired)

Condiments and Spices

Extra virgin olive oil

Cooking spray

Olive oil spray (or get a Misto oil mister)

Kosher salt (I like Diamond Crystal)

Pepper grinder (or fresh peppercorns)

Adobo seasoning

Cumin

Garlic powder

Light balsamic vinaigrette (or make your own with ingredients in list)

Reduced sodium soy sauce*

Sesame oil

Black sesame seeds (can sub all white in Asian Slaw, if desired)

White sesame seeds

Chili powder

Paprika

Bay leaves

Apple cider vinegar

Rice vinegar

Red wine vinegar

Worcestershire sauce

Mustard powder

Honey

Balsamic vinegar

Crushed red pepper flakes

Vanilla extract

Dairy & Misc. Refrigerated Items

2 dozen large eggs

1 (8-ounce) container light sour cream

1 (6-ounce) container nonfat plain Greek yogurt

1 small container crumbled gorgonzola (or bleu) cheese

1 small wedge Parmigiano Reggiano (optional, for Tortellini Soup)

1 (8-ounce) bag reduced fat shredded cheddar cheese (I like Sargento)

1 small box butter

1 (8-ounce) bottle skim milk

Frozen

1 (10-ounce) package corn kernels

1 small package frozen spinach

Canned and Jarred

1 (15-ounce) can reduced sodium black beans

1 small jar chunky mild salsa

1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas

1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (10-ounce) can RoTel mild tomatoes with green chilies

4 (32-ounce) cartons reduced sodium chicken broth

1 (15-ounce) can reduced sodium beef broth

1 (8-ounce) can or (4.5-ounce) tube tomato paste

Misc. Dry Goods

1 small bag chopped walnuts

1 small bottle tequila

1 small bag granulated sugar

1 small bag turbinado sugar

Baking soda

1 small bag/box light brown sugar

posted December 15, 2018 by Gina

Source: https://www.skinnytaste.com/skinnytaste-meal-plan-december-17-december-23/

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quintinefowler-blog · 5 years

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Get a Brighter Smile With DIY Natural Teeth Whitening

Have you ever done the tissue test, where you hold up a piece of pristine white tissue paper next to your teeth to see the color difference? If you're like most people, the results are disheartening: stained, dull, yellow teeth — a far cry from the bright whiteness of the tissue.

Luckily, whitening your teeth doesn't have to be a big ordeal. There are plenty of do-it-yourself natural teeth whitening options, including herbs, activated charcoal, and more.

Plus, these methods are inexpensive and safe — unlike professional teeth whitening services and commercial teeth whitening products that are both damaging to enamel and pricey.

What Causes Yellow Teeth?

First of all, don't worry. Having yellow teeth doesn't necessarily mean you have any health concerns, it may just mean you're getting older. Aging teeth naturally have yellowing dentin — the dense tissue beneath the enamel. Because enamel wears away as you get older, your teeth appear more yellow with age.

Of course, other things may speed up the process. Smoking, for instance, is one of the top causes of discolored teeth.[1]. If you smoke, there are surefire ways to quit and make sure you kick the habit for good.

Non-smokers aren't necessarily free from worry, though. Many other factors cause yellow teeth, such as things you eat and drink, environmental factors like too much fluoride in your tap water, certain antibiotics (particularly tetracycline in children under eight), poor oral care in general, or just plain bad genes.[2]

Teeth Whitening Home Remedies

Whitening your teeth at home can be easy. With the right ingredients and methods, it can be an inexpensive, healthier, and less time-consuming process than professional teeth whitening products and services.

Don't neglect basic oral health: brush and floss your teeth regularly — in the morning, after each meal, and before bed. But here are a few do-it-yourself teeth whitening techniques you can add to your other oral hygiene habits.

Baking Soda

Traditionally, people have touted baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) as a natural way to whiten teeth, whether it's brushing with it directly or rinsing with a baking soda teeth whitening solution.

In 2008, researchers sought to validate a previous study showing that brushing with baking soda-enhanced toothpaste significantly decreased plaque on the surface of teeth. Guess what? It did.[3]

After not brushing for 24 hours, participants brushed their teeth with toothpaste containing 20 to 65 percent baking soda. After just a one-minute brushing, their teeth showed a substantial reduction in plaque compared with whitening toothpaste.[3] The results are likely due to the chemical composition of baking soda; sodium bicarbonate is relatively gritty, which enables it to remove surface stains — but not the deeper ones.

Some say that using baking soda for too long can damage the enamel, so be careful. Just do not press the baking soda too forcefully onto your teeth, and alternate your use of baking soda for a couple of weeks with regular toothpaste. After rinsing, use a soft-bristled brush, and rinse completely.

Recipe: DIY Baking Soda Toothpaste

Ingredients:

1 cup baking soda

12 drops food-grade organic peppermint essential oil (optional)

Water to make a paste

Directions:

To make an easy do-it-yourself toothpaste for your teeth, mix one cup of baking soda with just enough water to create a thick paste. Add 12 drops peppermint oil if desired.

Spread a small amount of the paste all over your teeth, about the same amount as you do for regular toothpaste.

Wait for a minute or two, then rinse. Alternatively, brush gently with a soft-bristled brush.

Repeat this process every other day for a week.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal teeth whitening powder is the latest craze in oral hygiene, and even though no scientific studies have yet proven its level of effectiveness, many people swear by it. We do know that, based on anecdotal evidence, toothpaste containing activated charcoal helps to remove stains without harming teeth as do other abrasive stain-removal products.[4]

Some stores even carry toothbrushes with activated charcoal incorporated into the bristles, so you don't have to worry about messing around with powder or buying expensive pastes. Keep in mind, though, that any dental care product claiming it contains activated charcoal may also contain other whitening agents. Be sure to read labels carefully.

Recipe: Activated Charcoal Scrub

Ingredients:

Activated charcoal powder

Directions:

Dip a clean toothbrush into the powdered charcoal.

Brush for 3 to 5 minutes.

Rinse thoroughly.

Try it once a day for a few days, then take a break.

Your best bet here is to buy an organic powder from your local drugstore. Be aware, however, that activated charcoal can be abrasive and tooth enamel doesn't grow back. With that in mind, make sure you get activated charcoal that's not too abrasive. A good product will disclose its RDA (relative dentin abrasivity) — a score under 200 is where you want to be. Note the charcoal can stain your sink, floors, and clothing, so be cautious when using it.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Mothers have been telling their children for years: if you have a mouth infection or irritation, rinse it out with a hydrogen peroxide mixture. It may not taste good, but thanks to the chemical's antiseptic properties it helps to relieve discomfort and speed up wound healing.

You may not know that hydrogen peroxide also makes a great teeth whitening solution. In fact, most tooth-whitening products have hydrogen peroxide as the main ingredient. It essentially has a bleaching effect, breaking apart the stain compounds plaguing yellow teeth.[5] A hydrogen peroxide mouthwash is one of the quickest ways to use the chemical at home to whiten teeth.

Recipe: Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash

Ingredients:

1/4 cup 2-3.5 percent hydrogen peroxide (any higher percentage can cause serious dental and gum issues)

1/4 cup distilled water

Directions:

Mix peroxide and distilled water.

Swish some of the liquid around your mouth for about 30 seconds, spit, and rinse.

Be careful not to swallow any of the mixture, as internal consumption is not recommended.

Save any extra in a glass mason jar in your refrigerator.

Turmeric

If you love yellow curry or golden milk — a warm turmeric drink — we are sorry to say that as delicious and nutritious as it is, it probably won't help whiten your teeth. But studies have found that turmeric and the curcuminoids it contains not only repel harmful organisms, but may also normalize levels of plaque in your mouth, which do play a role in your teeth color.[6]

If your teeth are porous, turmeric may make them more yellow; however, one early study showed that a mouthwash mixture of turmeric and distilled water was effective against plaque.[6]

Recipe: Turmeric Mouthwash

Ingredients:

1 tsp turmeric powder from the grocery store

1 4-ounce glass of distilled water

Directions:

Mix the turmeric into a glass of water.

Swish a mouthful of the liquid in your mouth for 60 seconds.

Spit the liquid into the sink.

Save the leftover mouthwash in the refrigerator.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling sounds a lot more complicated than it actually is. Essentially, all you do is take some oil and swish it around in your mouth for an extended period of time. It's reportedly a boon for oral health, and a few studies have verified that — but not to the point where it's a go-to solution for yellowing teeth.[7]

Olive oil, sesame oil, and coconut oil are typically used for oil pulling.

One study shows that after 40 days of sesame oil pulling, participants had a 20 percent reduction in oral bacteria. For coconut oil teeth whitening, it reduced plaque and helped ease gingivitis; olive oil had the same effect.[7] The theory is that the oil is "pulling" bacteria out of your mouth, moisturizing your gums, and increasing saliva production.

You'll see your best results if you oil pull first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

Recipe: Oil Pulling

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon organic sesame, coconut, or olive oil

Directions:

Take one tablespoon of your oil of choice, swish it around your mouth for about 20 minutes, and make sure not to swallow any — it'll be full of toxins.

When the time is up, spit your oil into the trash and brush your teeth.

Fruit-Based Teeth Whitening Methods

The methods above are far from the only folk remedies for naturally whitening your teeth. Some swear by apple cider vinegar and even brush their teeth with it every night; keep in mind that the acetic acid in vinegar can erode your enamel if you use too much, thus perpetuating the problem you're trying to avoid.

To use, smudge apple cider vinegar onto your teeth with your finger, let it sit for 20 minutes, and then brush your teeth normally.

People sometimes use citrus fruit peels (lemon, orange, and lime), ripe, brownish banana peels, or mashed, super-ripe strawberries (the riper, the better); smudge onto your teeth and leave them for five minutes for acidic citrus and berries and ten minutes for the acid-free banana peel. Again, brush your teeth thoroughly afterward, so the acid doesn't negatively impact your dental health. Repeat daily for two weeks.

An even easier method is just to eat pineapple; the fruit contains the powerful enzyme bromelain, a natural stain remover.

Traditional Teeth Whitening Methods

More commonly these days, people looking to have their teeth whitened are trying "traditional" methods — traditional meaning something you can purchase from a dentist or at the grocery store that's some sort of chemical compound targeting stained teeth. These remedies include:

Professional whitening at a dentist

Whitening strips

Home bleaching systems

Whitening gum

Bleach gel

Bleaching trays

Whitening lights

Whitening pens

Over time, these strategies have appeared effective when used under a trained dental professional's supervision. However, overuse or improper usage can severely damage your enamel.[8] Plus, these methods won't reverse tooth sensitivity and decay. And of course, if your teeth contain cavities, no whitening plan, natural or not, will be a substitute for proper dental care.

Prevent Stains in the First Place

When it comes to keeping your teeth shiny white, the best defense is a good offense. You can do plenty of things to slow the yellowing process we all naturally fall victim to as we age. Here are some quick tips.

Try not to grind or clench your teeth; the damage causes them to yellow prematurely. Try a mouth guard if you are prone to nighttime tooth grinding.

Wear a mouthguard during sports to avoid oral injuries.

Limit your intake of coffee, tea, and red wine, but if you must have them, drink through a straw.

Brush your teeth twice a day at least, floss at least once a day, and use mouthwash regularly.

Avoid cigarettes, chewing tobacco, pipes, and other forms of smoking.

Don't do drugs. While this is good advice in general, just know that they ruin your teeth prematurely.

Get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. However, tell your dentist not to use fluoride, which is toxic to your body.

If you can, sleep with your mouth closed so that it doesn't dry out. Saliva cleans and protects enamel.

Get enough calcium in your diet — it helps keep your jaw bone healthy.

Side Effects & Precautions

As with everything, using teeth whitening home remedies improperly, in the wrong concentrations, or using too much can do more harm than good. Abrasive products, like baking soda, can permanently damage your enamel or cause sensitive teeth.

Acidic things like citrus fruits or certain oils can do the same thing. Always be sure that you don't accidentally swallow whatever remedy you're trying — stuff like hydrogen peroxide can make you pretty sick if you ingest it.

Points to Remember

Natural teeth whitening is an excellent way to avoid the harsh and damaging chemicals from professional or "traditional" treatments. Just be sure you're trying each method properly and with restraint.

DIY baking soda toothpaste, activated charcoal scrubs, and oil pulling are some of the best ways to keep your teeth pearly white — making it possible to have whiter teeth without the chemicals and cost.

Have you tried a natural teeth whitener or do-it-yourself technique? Let us know what works for you in the comments below!

The post Get a Brighter Smile With DIY Natural Teeth Whitening appeared first on Dr. Group's Healthy Living Articles.

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