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theblackdahliaemporium · 10 months

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Plant Correspondences:

This is going to be a long post! This is in no way, a complete list. This is Simply some Popular ones! If you have any other plants, herbs, or flowers you’re curious about, List them in the comments below!

Edit to add: Huckleberry! HUCKLEBERRY (Leaves): Good Fortune, Luck, Dream Work

TREES: • ACACIA ~ Clairvoyance, Divination, Visions, Wealth, Protection, Blessings • ALDER ~ Banishing, Transformation, Truth, Power of Water, Intuition • APPLE ~ Dream Work, Enchantment, Fertility, Love, Luck, Harmony • BIRCH ~ Reduces anxiety, Defensive Magick, Increases concentration, Creativity • CEDAR ~ Afterlife, Clairvoyance, Breaks Hexes, Psychic Ability • CYPRESS ~ Binding, Defensive Magick, Comfort, Mental Power, Wisdom • ELDER~ Grounding, Healing, Love, Magickal Power, Success • ELM ~ Intuition, Love, Pregnancy/Childbirth, Stability • JUNIPER ~ Fertility, Happiness, Protection, Optimism, Spirits, Strength • OAK ~ Confidence, Justice, Luck, Money, Success, Independence, Wealth • PINE ~ Beginnings, Blessings, Hope, Prosperity, Self-Work, Releasing • ROWAN ~ Astral Realm, Devotion, Guidance, Psychic Ability, Visions, Spirits • WILLOW ~ Moon Magick, Moon Power, Protection, Knowledge, Fertility • WITCH HAZEL ~ Healing, Inspiration, Willpower, Fidelity, Wisdom

HERBS & FLOWERS: • AGRIMONY ~ Harmony, Healing, Breaking Hexes, Dream Work, Protection • ALLSPICE~ Business, Luck, Success, Kindness, Money • ANGELICA ~ Repels Negativity, Divination, Purification, Success, • ANISE ~ Balance, Energy, Harmony, Purification, Well-Being • BASIL ~ Psychic Ability, Love (Reconciliation), Money, Messages/Omens • BELLADONNA ~ Imagination, Night Magick, Visions, Astral Realm • BETONY ~ Solving Problems, Security, Decreases Anxiety, Protection • BORAGE ~ Beginnings, Business success, Skills, Courage, Awareness • BLUEBELL ~ Kindness, Luck, Love, Manifestation, Overcoming Obstacles • CARNATION ~ Deep Love, Beauty, Communication, Fertility, Harmony, Emotions • CATNIP ~ Love, Luck, Psychic Ability, Spirits, Prevents Nightmares • CHAMOMILE ~ Blessings, Calming, Reduces Anger & Anxiety, Money, Luck • CINNAMON ~ Wealth, Money, Security, Luck, Desire, Attraction, Peace • CLOVE ~ Divination, Prosperity, Psychic Ability, Success, Truth, Visions • CLOVER ~ Grounding, Luck, Marriage, Prosperity, Success, Spiritual Balance • CUMIN ~ Fidelity, Harmony, The Home, Longevity, Love, Repels Negativity • DAFFODIL ~ Afterlife, Fairies, Love (Unrequited), Security, Spirits, Calming • DANDELION ~ Clairvoyance, Clarity, Divination, Communication, Spirits • DILL ~ Defensive Magick, Breaking Hexes, Love, Lust, Sex Magick, Money • FENNEL ~ Blessings, Repels Evil & Negative Energy (from entering the home) • FEVERFEW ~ Healing, Heartbreak, Love, Protection, Strength, Purification • GARLIC ~Banishing, Justice, Protection, Breaking Hexes, Release, Security • GINGER ~ Money, Pregnancy/Childbirth, Moon Magick, Unity, Success • HENBANE (highly poisonous) ~ Astral Realm, Divination, Love (Attract) • HONEYSUCKLE ~ Affection, Destiny, Happiness, Love, Peace, Well-Being • IVY ~ Attraction, Marriage, Love, Stability, Transformation, Fidelity, Omens • LAVENDER ~ Reduces Anger and Anxiety, Love, Manifestation, Luck, Rebirth • LEMON BALM ~ Business Success, Calming, Clarity, Fertility, Relationships • MANDRAKE (Poisonous) ~ Desire, Courage, spirits, Wealth, Omens, Bind • MISTLETOE (Poisonous) ~ Beginnings, Blessings, Business, Luck • MOONWORT ~ Clairvoyance, Divination, Love, Moon Magick, Money • MUGWORT ~ Spirits, Psychic Ability, Astral Realm, Awareness, Psychic Energy • NETTLE ~ Healing, Justice, Luck, Protection, Courage, Confidence • NUTMEG ~ Life, Luck, Love, Money, Power, Attract, Psychic Ability, Divination • ORRIS ROOT~ Astral, Protection, Relationships, Love, Sexual Attraction • PATCHOULI ~ Manifestation, Peace, Luck, Love (Attract), Money, Business • PEPPER ~ Motivation, Lust, Justice, Bind, Security, Strength • PEPPERMINT ~ Dream Work, Divination, Luck, Money, Visions, Healing • ROSE ~ Fertility, Family, Blessings, Love, Luck, Happiness, Beginnings • ROSEMARY ~ Psychic Ability, Psychic Protection, Inner Power, Luck, Afterlife • SAGE ~ Clairvoyance, Cleansing, Visions, Clears Negativity, Business • SANDALWOOD ~ Focus, Concentration, Success, Luck, Moon Magick, Blessings • ST. JOHN'S WORT ~ Strength, Power, Money, Consecrate/Bless, Prosperity • SNAPDRAGON ~ Clairaudience, Emotions, Money, Protection, Assertiveness • STAR ANISE ~ Divination, Psychic Ability, Purification, Consecrate/ Bless • STRAWBERRY ~ Beauty, Desire, Luck, Love, Relationships, Divination • SUNFLOWER ~ Clarity, Dream Work, Solar Energy, Light, Peace, Money, Luck • THYME ~ Healing, Happiness, Increasing, Rebirth, Protection, Calming • WORMWOOD ~ Clairvoyance, Dream Work, Guidance, Psychic Ability, Spirits • YARROW ~ Defense, Banishing, Heartbreak, Marriage, Healing, Release, Strength

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greenwitchcrafts · 7 months

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October 2023 witch guide

Full moon: October 28th

New moon: October 14th

Sabbats: Samhain

October Hunter's Moon

Known as: Blood moon, drying rice moon, falling leaf moon, freezing moon, migrating moon, moon of the changing seasons, shedding moon, ten colds moon, winterfelleth & windermanoth

Element: Air

Zodiac: Libra & Scorpio

Nature spirits: Frost faeries & Plant faeries

Deities: Apollo, Astarte, Belili, Cernunnos, Demeter, Hathor, Herne, Horned God, Ishtar, Kore, Lakshmi & Mercury

Animals: Elephant, jackal, ram, scorpion & stag

Birds: Crow, heron & robin

Trees: Acacia, apple, cypress & yew

Herbs/Plants: Angelica, apple blossom, burdock, catnip, pennyroyal, sweet Annie, thyme & Uva ursi

Flowers: Calendula, cosmos & marigold

Scents: Apple blossom, cherry & strawberry

Stones: Amethyst, beryl, obsidian, opal, tourmaline & turquoise

Colors: Black, dark blue, Dark greens & purples

Energy: Artistic works, balance, creativity, harmony, inner cleansing, justice, karma, legal matters, mental stimulation, partnerships, reincarnation & uncovering mysteries or secrets

It is believed that this name originates from the fact that it was a signal for hunters to prepare for the upcoming cold winter by going hunting. This is because animals were beginning to fatten up in preparation for the winter season. Moreover, since fields had recently been cleared out under the Harvest Moon, hunters could easily spot deer and other animals that had come out to search for remaining scraps. Additionally, foxes and wolves would also come out to prey on these animals.

The earliest use of the term “Hunter’s Moon,” cited in the Oxford English Dictionary, is from 1710. Some sources suggest that other names for the Hunter’s Moon are the Sanguine or Blood Moon, either associated with the blood from hunting or the color of the changing autumn leaves.

Samhain

Also known as: All Hallow's Eve, Ancestor Night, Feast of Apples, Feast of Sam-fuim, Feast of Souls, Feast of the Dead, Geimhreadh, Hallowmass, Martinmass, Old Hallowmas, Pagan New Year, Samana, Samhuinn, Samonios, Shadowfest & Third Harvest

Season: Fall

Symbols: Apples, bats, besom(brooms), black cats, cauldrons, ghosts, gourds, jack-o-lanterns, pumpkins, scarecrows & witches

Colors: Black, gold, orange, silver & white

Oils/incense: Basil, cloves, copal, frankincense, gum mastic, heather, heliotrope, mint, myrrh & nutmeg

Animals: Bat, boar, cat cattle & dogs

Stones: Amber, anatase, black calcite, black obsidian, black tourmaline, brass, carnelian, clear quartz diamond, garnet, gold, granite, hematite, iron, jet, marble, pearl, pyrite, ruby, sandstone, sardonyx, smokey quartz, steel & tektite

Foods: Apples, ale, beef, cider, corm, fruits, garlic, gourds, grains, hazelnuts, herbal teas, mushroom, nettle, nuts, pears, pomegranates, pork, poultry, pumpkin pie, sunflower seeds, thistle, turnips & wine (mulled)

Herbs/plants: Acorn, Allspice, catnip, corn, dittany of Crete, hazel, mandrake, mugwort, mullien, oak leaves, pine, rosemary, sage, straw, tarragon, thistle, wormwood & yellow cedar

Flowers: Calendula, chrysanthemum, deadly nightshade, rue & fumitory

Goddesses: Al-lat, Baba Yaga, Badb, Banba, Bast, Bebhionn, Bronach, Brunhilde, Cailleach, Carlin, Cassandra, Cerridwen, Copper Woman, Crobh Dearg, Devanyani, Dolya, Edda, Elli, Eris, Erishkigal, Fortuna, Frau Holde, Hecate, Hel, Ishtar, Kali, Macha Mania, Morrigan, Nemesis, Nephthys, Nicneven & Rhiannon

Gods: Arawan, Baron Samede, Belenus, Coyote, Cronus, Dagda, Dis, Hades, Loki, Nefertum, Odin, Osiris, Pluto, Woden & Xocatl

Issues Intentions & Powers: Crossroads, darkness, death, divination, honoring ancestors, introspection, the otherworld/underworld, release, visions & wisdom (of the crone)

Spellwork: Divination, fire magick, night magick, shape-shifting, spirit calling & water magick

Related festivals:

• Day of the Dead- (Spanish: Día de Muertos or Día de los Muertos) is a holiday traditionally celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, though other days, such as October 31 or November 6, may be included depending on the locality. It is widely observed in Mexico, where it largely developed & is also observed in other places, especially by people of Mexican heritage. Although related to the simultaneous Christian remembrances for Hallowtide, it has a much less solemn tone and is portrayed as a holiday of joyful celebration rather than mourning. The multi-day holiday involves family and friends gathering to pay respects and to remember friends and family members who have died. These celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.

• All Saints Day- is a Christian solemnity celebrated in honor of all the saints & martyrs of the Church, whether they are known or unknown

Activities:

• Dedicate an altar to loved ones who have passed

• Boil a simmer pot to cleanse your space

• Have a silent dinner

• Light a candle for your loved ones & yourself

• Decorate your house and/or altar

• Release negative energy & cleanse your with a ritual bath

• Pull tarot cards to see what may be in store for you ahead

• Cleanse, clean & de-clutter your space

• Leave offerings to the Fae

• Journal & reflect on your accomplishments, challenges & everything you did this year

•Go on a nature walk

• Learn a new form of divination

• Have a bonfire with your friends and/or family

• Carve pumpkins

• Express yourself creatively through art, music, ect

• Visit a cemetery & help clean off areas that need it or to visit a family member/ ancestor & leave an offering

• Hold a seance

• Bake spooky treats & bread as offerings

• Refresh your protection magicks, sigils & rituals

Samhain is a Gaelic festival on 1 November marking the end of the harvest season and beginning of winter or "darker half" of the year. Celebrations begin on the evening of 31 October, since the Celtic day began and ended at sunset.

This fire festival is celebrated on October 31st & is considered the Pagan New Year. It is the first Sabbat on the Wheel of the Year, a cross-quarter festival & the third (final) harvest festival of the mundane year. This is the time when the veil between the worlds of the living & those who have passed is the thinnest, which allows greater communication between the two

Some believe this is the time of the Goddess's mourning of the death of the God until his rebirth at Yule. The Goddess's sadness can be seen in the shortening, darkening days & the arrival of cold weather

Sources:

Farmersalmanac .com

Llewellyn's 2023 magical almanac: practical magic for everyday living

Wikipedia

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kines

A Witch's Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

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cambion-companion · 1 year

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Hugging the Elves (blorbos)

Elrond ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆

Elrond is a healer, of both body and heart. His home of Rivendell is where those blessed enough to gain entry find refuge for their spirit. Elrond would hug like a father comforting his child, he would wrap you into a secure embrace. He smells like familiar spices and fresh warm cloth as you bury your head against his shoulder. The long sleeves of his robes wrap around your body and offer solace under their weight. He will smile down at you gently, a fond crinkling around his eyes full of wisdom and starlight.

Glorfindel

Sunshine incarnate, Glorfindel's hugs are enthusiastic and don't be surprised if he lifts you into his arms and twirls you around once or twice, especially if he has been on errantry and not seen you for a while. His long golden hair would get in both your faces and he would laugh, bell-like, as he gently brushes it away. He smells of a fresh summer breeze carrying the light scents of flowers and evergreen trees as you press your cheek to his chest. I also see him as being fond of taking your face in his hands, enjoying looking into your eyes and reading your emotions there. When you are in need of comfort be assured Glorfindel will always be ready to offer you a warm embrace as you bask in his glowing presence. His very touch is enough to chase away any creeping darkness from your mind. (yes I am madly in love with him can you not tell)

Arwen

Arwen doesn't hug very many people, so when she opens her arms to you it is a gift indeed. She smells of lilac and midsummer nights spent by the lake under the stars. Her hair is as soft as goose-down and the gossamer of her sleeves slips between your fingers. She holds the back of your head lightly as you lean against her, closing your eyes and enjoying the feel of her chin tucked against your head. Arwen will also peer into your eyes, as they are windows to your soul, and give you a soft understanding smile before engaging you in light conversation and laughter.

Thranduil

(as a brief aside, I do not at all like the characterization of Thranduil in the movies as they turned him into King Thingol of Doriath who is much different in temperament. thus, this will be based on his book self)

Thranduil is regal and guarded, yet he has a warmth about him you have grown accustomed to receiving from the Elves. Like Arwen he does not embrace others readily, but will receive your affection with a broad smile and happy chuckle. His hands placed securely on your upper back as you lean against him, breathing in his scent of juniper berries and pine. This hug will be brief but meaningful and leave you feeling elated and refreshed. He will then invite you to dine with them and perhaps accompany his folk into the forest to dance and frolic to the sound of harpists and singing.

Legolas

Legolas is full of laughter and wit and will accept your hug with joy, squeezing you tight against him as he ruffles your hair about in an affectionate manner. You bury your face into the crook of his neck and inhale the smell of leather and woodsmoke. He will hold you against him for as long as you wish, even rocking you side to side if you remain in his arms for long. When you do pull away Legolas will grasp your forearms and beam at you, making a witty comment, his countenance brightening when you laugh.

Finrod

(Yes, I have to include this golden boy)

The first among Elves to befriend humans, even the first to see them, Finrod has a special place in his heart for his mortal friends. He loves giving and receiving hugs and will wrap you in his arms readily and with reverence. His golden hair tickles your face and he laughs, looking down at you as you scrunch your nose at the sensation. Finrod smells of the ocean winds that form the waves and the carpet of moss that covers forest floors. He is Valinor mixed with Middle Earth, belonging to both and yet neither. There is a sadness to his grip as he brushes a stray hair from your face after you pull away. But as ever with his kin the sadness in his eyes swiftly turns over to mirth and he takes your hand before pulling you along with him to your next adventure.

let me know who else I should write these for!

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thecupidwitch · 1 month

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Planetary Magick🌙

Sun

Zodiac: Leo

Metal: Gold

Day: Sunday

Colors: organge, yellow, amber

Stones: Amber, topaz, ruby, diamond

Tarot: The Sun

Herbs: Angelica, poppy, sunflower, marigold, hibiscus, mistletoe

Symbols: lion, hexagram, sparrow hawk, dragon, head, heart, swan

Influences: renown, potency, fortune, tyranny, pride, ambition, masculinity, arrogance, bigotry, vitality, health

Moon

Zodiac: cancer

Metal: sliver

Day: Monday

Colors: blue, sliver

Stones: moonstone, pearl

Tarot: The High Priestess, The Chariot

Herbs: eucalyptus, coconut, jasmine, lotus, myrrh, sandalwood

Symbols: bow and arrow, crab, cat, turtle, Sphinx, owl

Influences: gradtitufe, friendliness, safe, travel, physical health, wealth, protection for enemies, deception, illusion, women, emotions, healing, dreams

Mercury

Zodiac: Virgo, Gemini

Metal: aluminum, Mercury

Day: Wednesday

Colors: violet, gray, purple, indigo, yellow

Stones: opal agate

Tarot: The Lovers

Herbs: hyssop, juniper, betony, carrot, chickweed

Symbols: wand, octagram, the mind

Influences: good fortune, gratitude, gain, memory, understanding, divination, dreams, forgetfulness, communication, business, cleverness, creativity, information, intellect, memory, perception, science, wisdom, gambling, writing, root of dishonesty, deception

Venus

Zodiac: taurus, libra

Metal: copper

Day: Friday

Colors: green, pink

Stones: turquoise, emerald, sapphire, jade

Tarot: The Empress

Herbs: jimsonweed, violet, rose, alder, apple, angelica, olive, sesame

Symbols: sparrow, dove, swan, pentagram

Influences: peace, agreements, cooperation, fertility, joy, love, good fortune, jealousy, strife, promiscuity

Mars

Zodiac: aries, scorpio

Metal: iron, red brass, steel

Day: Tuesday

Color: Red

Stones: ruby, garnet, bloodstone, diamond

Tarot: The Tower

Herbs: ginger, mustard

Symbols: sword, pentagram, horse, bear, wolf, vulture

Influences: war, victory, judgements, submission of enemies, bleeding, stripping one of rank, harness, discord, conflict, aggression, lust, power, courage, goals, protection, motivation, ambition, strength

Jupiter

Zodiac: pisces, sagittarius

Metal: tin

Day: Thursday

Colors: blue

Stone: sapphire

Tarot: The Wheel of Fortune

Herbs: balm, hyssop, maple leaf and bark, oak, sage, dandelion root

Symbols: eagle, dolphin

Influences: gains, riches, favor, peace, cooperation, appeasing enemies, dissolving

Saturn

Zodiac: capricorn

Metal: lead

Day: Saturday

Color: black

Stone: onyx

Taror: The World

Herbs: alder, apple, ash, asparagus, baneberry, belladonna, distort, hellebore, blackthorn, corm, cypress

Symbols: cuttlefish, mole

Influences: safety, power, success, positive response to requests, intellect, causes discord, strips honor, melancholy

Uranus

Zodiac: aquarius

Day: Thursday

Colors: blue-green, electric blue

Stones: quartz, labradorite, blue topaz, amber, amethyst, garnet, diamond

Tarot: The Fool

Herbs: clover, pokeweed, snowdrop, foxglove, love, rosemary, trees of heaven, hellebore, morning glory, sage, wintergreen, orchids, sweet woodruff

Symbols: dragonfly, butterfly

Influences: breaking connection, sudden and unexpected change, freedom, originality, radical and revolutionary ideas, enlightenment, equality, individuality, rebellion, instability, loneliness, boredom, mistrust of self

Neptune

Zodiac: pisces

Minerals: coral, aquamarine, platinum, neptunium

Colors: green, blue, lavender

Tarot: The Hanged Man

Herbs: morning glory, night-blooming jasmine, pine, water lily

Symbols: the sea, Trident, the spine

Influences: dissolving boundaries, expanding upon ideas, changing established rules, intuition, idealism, sacrifice, glamour, illusion, evolution, decay, visions, art, healing, inspiration, dreams, creativity, compassion, drifting from reality, carelessness, stubbornness, absent mind

Pluto

Zodiac: scorpio

Metal: plutonium, tin chrome, steel

Day: Tuesday

Colors: maroon, dark red, purple, white, black

Stones: snowflake obsidian, clack tourmaline

Tarot: Judgement

Herbs: pomegranate, rosemary, vanilla, basil, poppies, belladonna, foxglove

Symbols: Phoenix, snake, scorpion, fox, eagle

Influences; destruction making way for renewal, rebirth, knowledge, spirituality, transformation, destiny, the subconscious, desire, arrogance, death, obsession, destruction

#thecupidwitch #witchcraft #planetary magic #witchblr #witchcore #witches #witch community #witch #grimoire #spellwork #spirituality

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themodernwitchsguide · 4 months

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altars for greek gods (pt.2)

this post includes zeus, hera, poseidon, hestia, hephaestus, dionysus, ares, demeter, and athena. for part 1 including hades, persephone, artemis, apollo, aphrodite, hermes, and hekate click here.

keep in mind that typical offerings to any god includes meat, wine, grain (usually barley), honey, and incense (myrrh and frankincense would be period appropriate), but i'm listing some specific offerings that can be given if you'd like

colors can be used for candles, banners, decor, whatever you want

ZEUS

Colors: white, blue, and grey for association with the heavens, yellow and black for association with storms. gold because he's the King of the Gods

Offerings: rain water, oak, olives/olive branches/olive leaves, vervain, cinnamon, laurel. images of himself or lightning bolts are particularly recommended for Zeus

Crystals: diamonds, gold (i think pyrite, aka fool's gold, would be offensive), turquoise, lapis lazuli, celestite, iron/steel, any quartz

Animals: eagle, bull

POSEIDON

Colors: blue and white for association with the seas, gray for association with storms, brown for association with the earth/earthquakes

Offerings: coffee, mint, ocean water, salt, seashells

Crystals: coral, petoskey stone, abalone, opal (especially water opal), blue calcite, aquamarine

Animals: horse, bull, dolphin, hippocampus

HERA

Colors: red, pink and white for association with love and marriage. gold because she's the Queen of the Gods.

Offerings: iris, rose, patchouli, coconut, cypress, maple, peacock feathers, pomegranate

Crystals: pearls, garnet, citrine, diamonds, lapis lazuli, topaz, opal, moonstone, rose quartz

Animals: peacock, cuckoo, cow

HESTIA

Colors: red, orange, and yellow for association with fire, brown or white for the hearth/home.

Offerings: tea/coffee (especially if you drink it with her), pine, bread, cider, apples, anything on fire, cinnamon

Crystals: amber, jade, garnet, ruby, carnelian, sunstone, amethyst, honey calcite

Animals: donkey, pig, crane

HEPHAESTUS

Colors: red, orange, and yellow for association with fire, metallics for association with metalworking.

Offerings: spicy things, hot beverages, handmade things, dragon's blood incense, seashells, anything on fire

Crystals: metals, fire opal, honey calcite, obsidian, hematite, carnelian

Animals: donkey, dog, crane

DIONYSUS

Colors: purple and green for association with grapes/wine, leopard/tiger print for his holy animals

Offerings: grapes (or any derivative), alcohol, cinnamon, ivy, pinecones. there's a particular emphasis on non-physical offerings with dionysus, like playing music, partying or sex/masturbation

Crystals: grape agate, leopard jasper, crazy lace agate, tiger's eye, garnet, rose or rutilated quartz, amethyst, jade

Animals: panther/leopard, tiger, bull, serpent, dolphin

ARES

Colors: red and purple for association with war

Offerings: spicy things, yarrow, chocolate, basil, cinnamon

Crystals: bloodstone, garnet, red jasper, smokey quartz, black tourmaline, hematite, metals, obsidian, carnelian

Animals: eagle owl, barn owl, poisonous snakes, boar, vulture

DEMETER

Colors: green, brown, and yellow for association with the earth/harvest. black for her ruthlessness

Offerings: oats and grain, anything baked, flowers, spices (like cinnamon or cloves, allspice is good too), leaves that have begun to change colors for fall, mint, poppy

Crystals: jade, tree/moss agate, carnelian, amber, aventurine, rutilated quartz

Animals: serpent, farm animals (especially pig), gecko, turtle-dove

ATHENA

Colors: white and grey/silver for association with wisdom. red for association with war

Offerings: anything handmade, olives/olive oil/olive branches/olive leaves, snake shed, cedar, cypress, cinnamon

Crystals: metals, celestite, fluorite, lapis lazuli, bloodstone, obsidian, iolite

Animals: snakes and owls

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yoga-onion · 4 months

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Legends and myths about trees

Celtic beliefs in trees (27)

A for Ailm (Pine) - December 23rd Birth of the Divine child

“The birth of the King of the Flourishing Half Year - The Celtic Tree Calendar”

Stars: Mars & Sun; Gender: female; Metal: gold; Patrons: Artemis, Ariadne, Rhea, Cybele, Druantia, Dionysus, Bacchus; Symbols: foresight, purity, objectivity, birth

The Ogham alphabet has 5 vowels. The number 5 is the sacred number of the 'White Goddess'. Like all five vowel trees, pine is a female tree. And it is also the first vowel A, the tree of birth.

In ancient Greece, the pine tree was the goddess of the moon and dedicated to Artemis, who was responsible for the birth of children.The birth of Christ is celebrated on 25 December, and the Christmas tree decorated on this day is Norway spruce. The spruce is a member of the pine tree family. Although Christ's birthday is now celebrated on 25 December, it is believed that in earlier times our ancestors celebrated the birth of the Son of God on 23 December.

23 December marked the beginning of the 'Half Year of Light' and the birth of the "Son of God, the King of the Flourishing Half Year", and a gift of the wisdom of our ancestors.

On the winter solstice, druids (Ref2) in Europe lit large bonfires of pine and yew. Around the same time, the festival of the Druid Queen, Druantia, also took place. These large bonfires, which were built on the winter solstice, were passed on to the Yule Log. While the Yule festival lasted, people lit candles on pine trees and decorated them with glittering objects. The Christmas tree is the successor to this custom.

The ancients believed that the pine cones were cleverly guided by magical powers, as they spiralled and followed the same clockwise direction on their trunks as the earth around the sun. Yellow pollen was utilised in the 'money-accumulation spell' as yellow attracts gold. Pine branches are said to prevent evil from entering the house if hung over doors and windows, and old people are said to be rejuvenated if they carry pine cones.

Futhermore, Native Americans put a bag full of pine needles under their pillows on the floor when they have insomnia. In ancient Egypt, doctors in the Pharaoh's service used pine tar and turpentine oil to treat pneumonia.

The ancients learnt from the towering pines the importance of looking at things objectively and from a broad perspective. Pine teaches that you have to be positive about things, correct mistakes immediately and chase responsibility yourself.

So, have a happy Christmas everyone, surrounded by the tree again this year.

木にまつわる伝説・神話

ケルト人の樹木の信仰 (27)

AはAilm (ﾏﾂ) - 12月23日神の子の誕生、ケルトの木の暦（参照）

星: 火星＆太陽、性: 女性、金属: 金、守護神: アルテミス、アリアドネ、レア、キュベレ、ドルアンティア、ディオニックス、バッカス、シンボル: 先見の明、清浄、客観性、誕生

オガム文字には5つの母音がある。数字の5は「白い女神」の聖なる数字。5つの母音のすべての木がそうであるように、マツも女性の木、そして最初の母音のA、誕生の木でもある。

古代ギリシャでは、マツは月の女神で、子供の誕生をつかさどるアルテミスに捧げられた。キリストの誕生を祝う12月25日、この日に飾るクリスマス・ツリーはノルウェートウヒ。トウヒはマツ科の木である。現在、キリストの誕生日は12月25日とされているが、その昔、祖先は12月23日に神の御子の誕生を祝っていたとされる。12月23日は「光の半年間」の幕開けと「神の子・盛りゆく半年の王」の誕生を一緒の祝う先祖の知恵の産物であった。

冬至の日、ヨーロッパのドルイド（参照2）は松やイチイの大きな焚き火をした。これは、太陽神を冥界から呼び戻し、この世に再生させるためであった。ユール祭が続く間、人々はマツの木に蝋燭を灯したり、きらきら光るものを飾ったりした。それは、生命の源である太陽神の聖なる光を守るためであった。また、その光は暗い冬の間も常緑樹の植物に蓄えられると古代人は信じていたからだ。その習慣を受け継いだのがクリスマスツリーである。

松ぼっくりは、螺旋を描きながら、太陽の周りをめぐる地球と同じように時計回りに幹につく��め、魔法の力を��みに導く存在であると、古代人は信じていた。黄色い花粉は黄色がゴールドを引き寄せるとして「お金がたまる呪い」に活用された。マツの枝はドアや窓にかけると邪悪なものが家の中に侵入できなくなり、老人は松ぼっくりを持ち歩くとして若返ると言われている。

さらに、ネイティブ・アメリカンは不眠症のとき、マツの葉が詰めた袋を枕の下に敷いて床につく。古代エジプトでは、ファラオに仕える医者が肺炎の治療に松脂とテレビン油を使ったという。

古代人は広い視野に立って客観的、長期的にものを見る重要性を、高くそびえる松に学んできた。物事には前向きに取り組み、過ちはすぐに正し、責任は自分で追わなければならないと、マツは教えている。

さあ、今年もまたツリーにかこまれて、みなさん楽しいクリスマスをお過ごしください。

#trees #tree myth #tree legend #folklore #celtic tree calendar #celtic belief #mythology #legend folklore #pine trees #nature #art

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kipxan · 1 year

Photo

ohh my god ok so i love clangen and the WONDERFUL Nimaereth created a mod that lets you customize and import your own cats into the game and i’m obsessed. i’ve had zero time to draw so i’ve been creating characters from my own personal warrior cats ““worldbuilding”” project (plus my beloved lightningclaw of course).

the folks working on this game are incredibly smart and do all this work for free, and i respect the hell out of them for bringing together such a lovely fan project! definitely show them support if you can!

credits: mod by Nimaereth (linked above), merle and abyssinian coat patterns by MagiBaxter, extra pelt colors by Eragona (no github link but can provide link to her thread in the discord server), just-some-cat for the original sprites, and ofc the clangen team itself! if any one of you want me to take this down, just lmk! :)

more about these characters:

row 1: eclipsestar, murkmist, frostmoon

row 2: riverhaze, silvertongue, nightstep

row 3: wolfstorm, ashfrost, lightningclaw

except for lightningclaw, who is the SkyClan deputy, all of these guys belong to PineClan, which is one of the four clans formed far in the north after several lake clan cats were wrongfully chased from their home. their territory borders MountainClan and ValeClan, while CavernClan makes their home in the cave system underneath the three territories. they make their camp in a pine forest, but their hunting grounds also include a muskeg dubbed The Frozen Mire by the cats. most of their ancestors come from either ShadowClan or SkyClan.

their territory also includes the outer edges of the Fox Hollows, home to an intelligent fox pack that long pre-dates the Clans. PineClan maintains an uneasy truce with the foxes over the strip of their territories that overlaps, and as such all PineClan apprentices are taught to speak a little bit of fox. while it doesn’t always stop natural predator conflict, they live in peace most of the time.

PineClan prides themselves on their wisdom and history. they have strong oral traditions, and some stories claim to date all the way back to the old forest. elders are revered to a greater degree than in other clans, and their stories are a favorite among apprentices of other clans at gatherings. PineClan also has a role called the Lorekeeper. they hunt but do not fight or patrol borders, however their main role is to record Clan history. a large stone wall, sheltered from the elements in an abandoned burrow, is painted on to record births, deaths, and changes in position (think kinda like Paleolithic cave paintings).

their build is lean and elegant, their fur kept sleek and well-groomed. dark coats are valued for nighttime hunting, while tabbies and tortoiseshells are great for hunting in trees. many of them, oddly enough, have large and pointy ears, which legend says they developed to listen for prey in the silent woodland. their scent is reminiscent of pine needles, with a muskier undertone from the wetland.

i won’t get into it too much here but it is important to note that all four clans have a special warrior called their Guardian. this warrior is stronger and wiser than the average clan cat, and their soul is continually reincarnated. though not technically a Guardian, the “original” soul comes from Moonchaser, who led the clan cats to their new northern home. there is a LOT of lore surrounding this bit but think like a mix between the avatar and the nerevarine.

anyway cats.

Eclipsestar (Eclipsestream): current leader of PineClan. she’s chill. has a very relaxed and open policy to outsiders (the northern Clans usually do to prevent inbreeding, but even by these standards she’s very welcoming). was very young to be appointed deputy by the previous leader, Wolfstar, so her inexperience and the need to grow up quickly does sometimes still show. however, she’s overall seen as a wise and peaceful leader.

Murkmist: eclipsestar’s deputy and longtime best friend. while she disagrees with some of eclipse's policies, they’re overall a good fit for each other. sly and crafty, she’s usually the first cat to send when dealing with the Fox Hollows. not above causing drama with the other clans, but she will do so in a manner that makes her seem completely uninvolved.

Frostmoon: the senior medicine cat, very old by the time most of these characters roll around. strict, cold, and deeply rooted in tradition. as an apprentice she was considered a prodigy, but like eclipse, she also lost her mentor at a young age, which led to her developing a deep desire to prove herself. this led to her severely mishandling a situation involving the Clan’s previous Guardian, and many cats (perhaps wrongfully, perhaps not) sadly ended up losing their trust in her.

Riverhaze: frostmoon’s former apprentice. nervous, a bit flighty, and eager to please. not a whole lot to say about him, but he’s a good healer and a nice dude. despite his mentor’s failings, he’s still close with her.

Silvertongue: the current Lorekeeper. not a kittypet since humans are gone in this world, i just thought the collar looked nice. though he probably does have outsider roots. clever, sassy, good-natured, and takes his job VERY seriously. also nightstep’s mate, which means he puts up with a lot of nonsense haha.

Nightstep: the current Guardian and main character of this hypothetical story (and also the cat iteration of my beloved skyrim character, teravyn, though they’ve kind of evolved into separate characters). adventurous, impulsive, and gets into more trouble than what’s good for him. kind to the point where some might call him naive, but to his credit his heart is in the right place, and he’ll grow into the role. however, his impulsivity is again a problem, because he can be absolutely terrifying in battle. very close with wolfstorm and considers her a sister, and his mate is silvertongue whom he loves very much. his other best friend is a former loner called mireclaw, who’s not featured here.

Wolfstorm: young warrior, found by the Clan as a kit. assumed to be a loner kit, but her mother is actually the MountainClan deputy Magpieshadow, who secretly left her kit with PineClan after her mate died and she felt unprepared to raise a kit alone. due to her MountainClan genes, she’s HUGE (and fluffy) compared to the average PineClan cat. to wolf, the warrior code is...more of a suggestion than a rule set. she’s sneaky and not above stealing prey to feed her own clan, but by starclan is she good at staying hidden. some believe her blessed by the (currently unnamed) patron of stealth. very close with both nightstep and silvertongue, as well as another warrior called mireclaw (not featured here).

Ashfrost: a background warrior. also not much to say about her, but i like her a lot. you will never ever find her in the midst of any drama--she is too laidback and too chill with everyone for that nonsense. however, gossip? she is MORE than happy to listen to it, just don’t make her get involved.

Lightningclaw: my baby. my boy. go here.

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hexora · 5 months

Text

Winter Associations

Snowflakes: Symbol of uniqueness and individuality, each snowflake is considered magical.

Icicles: Used for spellwork related to clarity and insight.

Winter Solstice: A powerful time for rituals celebrating the return of the sun's energy.

Evergreen Trees: Symbolize life, protection, and continuity during the cold months.

Yule Log: Burned during Yule celebrations for prosperity and protection.

Holly: Represents protection and brings good fortune during winter.

Mistletoe: Used for love spells and protection against negative energy.

Frost: Associated with transformation and purification.

Frozen Lakes: Symbolize stillness and reflection.

Northern Lights: Magical displays in the winter sky, believed to hold spiritual energy.

Wolves: Guardians of winter realms, associated with intuition and instincts.

Candles: Lit for warmth and enlightenment during the dark months.

Hot Cocoa: Used in kitchen witchcraft for comfort and grounding.

Spiced Cider: Associated with abundance and the warmth of hearth and home.

Winter Faeries: Spirits that thrive in the winter, known for mischief and playfulness.

Fur and Wool: Materials associated with warmth and protection.

Citrine Crystals: Linked to the sun's energy, bringing positivity during the dark season.

Winter Animals: Bears, hibernating creatures, and migrating birds symbolize survival and adaptation.

Warming Herbs: Cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for spells related to warmth and protection.

Frosty Windows: Scrying through frost patterns for divination.

Winter Moon: Perform rituals under the light of the cold, bright moon.

Snowy Owl: A symbol of wisdom and magical insight.

Snowball Fight: Playful energy and bonding with nature spirits.

Winter Gardens: Indoor plants associated with winter magic, like poinsettias.

Silver Bells: Used in spells for communication and summoning spirits.

Sleigh Bells: Carries a sense of joy and celebration.

Ice Skating: A ritualistic dance for balance and grace.

Winter Goddesses: Invoke deities like Skadi or Persephone for their winter aspects.

Fir Needle Essential Oil: Used in aromatherapy for grounding and focus.

Frozen Waterfalls: Symbolize the temporary pause in the flow of life.

Snow Hares: Represent transformation and adaptability.

Crystal Snowflakes: Used in rituals for clarity and purification.

Winter Altar Decorations: Incorporate seasonal items like pine cones, acorns, and silver ornaments.

Winter Winds: Believed to carry messages from the spirit world.

Ice Magick: Creating and using ice symbols in spellwork for stability and stillness.

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pinchofhoney · 1 year

Note

Hiii I just found ur blog and I was wondering if I could get:

#3 angst prompt for the darkling? Maybe?

left behind # 200 follower special event

» prompt event » special events masterlist

angst prompt three: “i hate that i was always yours and you were never mine”

gif is not mine, credit to the owner

the darkling x fem!reader

word count: 2.7k

warning: no use of y/n, angst with no happy end, mention of jealousy, mention of manipulation, just get ready to face an asshole

summary: Life had never been fair to you, and you knew it all too well. So when you found yourself falling for the tall, charismatic commander of the Second Army, you couldn't help but wonder if it was just another cruel joke that life was playing on you. But as it turned out, the joke was on you all along.

a/n: hello there and welcome!! i hope you will like what i have prepared for you and stay here for longer<33 don't forget to let me know what you think of this piece 🤗 this is the first time writing for a villain, and i'm a little proud of the way it came out!!

pages that may interest you: masterlist ♡ taglist ♡ who i write for

taglist: @wolfmoonmusic @myladydarkling @alexxavicry

The night was alive with magic and wonder, a sight that never ceased to take your breath away. The sky was a canvas of velvety darkness, studded with countless stars that twinkled like diamonds. The air was cool and crisp, carrying with it the scent of pine trees and freshly fallen leaves.

But it was the moon that truly captivated you. It hung low in the sky, a shimmering orb of silver light that illuminated everything in its path. Its glow was soft and ethereal, casting long shadows across the ground and painting the world with a dreamlike quality.

As you gazed up at the satellite, you felt a sense of peace wash over you. It was as if the moon held some secret knowledge, some ancient wisdom that could only be accessed by those who were willing to open themselves up to its power.

And so you stood there, bathed in its light, feeling the weight of the world slip away. For a moment, you was suspended in time, lost in the beauty of the night and the breathtaking majesty of the moon.

You find yourself standing on the balcony of the Little Palace, which was an extension of your bedroom. As you look out, you can't help but feel awestruck by the beauty of the moonlit night. Its soft glow fills every inch of your being, almost as if its power is permeating through your skin and into every cell of your body. For some, this moment would be nothing more than a passing experience, but for others, it was a time of wonder and magic.

And you were one of those people.

The Moon Summoner.

Although it doesn’t sound like much, you were quite a unique Grisha. You possess the incredible power to manifest the power of the moon itself, a force that grants you the ability to mend matter and accomplish feats that others can only dream of. Your abilities are almost unstoppable during the night, and you adore the chance to harness their full potential when the moon is at its brightest. With your power, you can illuminate even the darkest corners of the world or shroud yourself in shadows, becoming one with the night and moving unseen through the shadows. No enemy in their right mind would dare to show their face to you during this time of day, knowing that they would be no match for your formidable abilities.

You knew that you possess abilities that are far beyond what most people could ever imagine. The thought of it fills you with a sense of awe and pride, but it also makes you wonder: are you really as important as you believe yourself to be?

You pushed away from the railing and let out a quiet sigh. The cool breeze brushed against your skin, causing you to pull your night robe tighter around your body. Despite being an independent and strong woman, you couldn't help but feel vulnerable when it comes to him.

Is it because he's charming? Has a way of making you smile, even on the darkest of days. Or is it because one look into his dark, mysterious eyes is enough to make you forget about the world around you?

Perhaps it's because you feel important and wanted in his presence. He sees you for who you are, beyond just your power and abilities. He recognizes your strengths and admires you for them. But at the same time, you can't help but wonder if you're just a pawn in his game, a means to an end.

The Darkling.

The name alone sends shivers down your spine. He is a man of power and mystery, with an air of danger that draws you in like a moth to a flame. You found yourself increasingly drawn to him, the mere thought of him sending a rush of excitement through your body.

Every time you're in his presence, you feel the butterflies in your stomach fluttering wildly, threatening to take flight at the slightest interaction. He has a way of making you feel alive, as if every nerve in your body is on fire. Even the nights have become sleepless, as you toss and turn, unable to stop thinking about him.

But it's not just his power that attracts you, though that is certainly a factor. There's something about him, something in the way he moves and speaks, that sets him apart from anyone else you've ever met. He's confident and self-assured, with a magnetism that is hard to resist.

Aleksander was the one who made you feel like you were the center of his world, the one who cared about you more than anything else when you were in his presence. But then, she appeared. The Sun Summoner.

At first, you tried to ignore her, to brush her off as just another Grisha with a unique power. But as time went on, you realized that she was different. She had a power that was unparalleled, a power that made Aleksander’s eyes light up with a newfound passion.

Suddenly, you found yourself pushed into the background, like an afterthought. The attention that Aleksander used to lavish on you was now focused solely on her. It was like she had cast a spell over him, drawing him in with her power and beauty.

A feeling of jealousy gnawed at you from the inside. You tried to push the feeling away, to tell yourself that it didn't matter. But deep down, you knew the truth. You couldn't accept that Alina might be more powerful than you. That her power could bring more help than yours, which in its strongest form only appeared at night.

You had always prided yourself on your unique ability to harness the power of the moon. It had made you feel special, important. But now, with Alina's power shining so bright, you felt like a small, insignificant thing.

You knew that you should be happy for her, that her power could bring great things to Ravka. But every time you saw her standing next to Aleksander, it felt like a reminder of everything that you weren't. It made you wonder if he even needed you anymore, now that he had her.

As another gust of wind blew across the balcony, you cast one last glance at the bright satellite before turning around to head back inside. Sitting down on your bed, you felt a determination settle over you like a cloak. You knew that you couldn't keep ignoring the way you felt about Kirigan. There was something between the two of you that couldn't be explained in words, something that had been growing stronger with each passing day, until the Sun Summoner appeared in the palace.

You remembered the way he looked at you, with that intensity in his dark eyes that made your heart skip a beat. You remembered the way he made you feel, like you were the only one in the world that mattered. And you knew that you couldn't let that go.

Tomorrow, you would talk to Aleksander. You would lay everything on the table, tell him how you felt, and ask him if there was anything between the two of you worth fighting for. It was a risky move, but you couldn't keep living in uncertainty, wondering what might have been.

The night was long and restless, much harder than you had expected it to be. Despite your exhaustion, you couldn't seem to find a comfortable position to lie in, tossing and turning as your mind raced with a flurry of thoughts and anxieties.

You rehearsed every scenario that could arise during your conversation with Aleksander, going over each detail in your mind with meticulous precision. You had planned everything out perfectly, prepared for any outcome, yet your heart continued to pound with a nervous energy that you couldn't shake.

As the hours ticked by, the darkness outside your window slowly gave way to the first rays of morning light. Only then did you finally drift off to sleep, the weight of your thoughts and worries finally taking its toll on your tired body.

But your slumber was short-lived, as you were soon roused from your restless sleep by a knock at your door, signaling the start of a new day. Sitting on the edge of your bed, bleary-eyed and lost in thought, you began to doubt yourself. Was your plan foolproof? Despite your best efforts, your confidence wavered, and you wondered if you were truly ready to face Aleksander.

As you both sat down to have breakfast, the tension in the air was palpable. You could feel Kirigan's eyes on you, but you kept your gaze focused on your plate, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of knowing just how much his recent behavior had affected you. However, you couldn't help but notice how he kept glancing over at Alina.

After finishing your meal, you mustered up the courage to speak up. “I need to talk to you later, General,” you said firmly.

His response was curt, “We can talk now if you want,” but you shook your head, insisting on speaking in private.

Now, you stood outside his office, trying to calm the nerves. You didn't know how to begin this conversation, or what you even wanted to say. Everything you rehearsed in your head last night has been replaced by emptiness. All you knew was that you couldn't keep pretending that everything was okay. The closer you got to his door, the more you felt like turning around and running away. But you knew that you couldn't keep running from your feelings forever. It was time to face them head-on.

You took a deep breath, bracing yourself for what would surely be a difficult conversation. You knocked on the door, and after a brief pause, Kirigan invited you in. The door creaked as you pushed it open and stepped inside, and the sound seemed to echo through the tense silence. Aleksander was seated behind his desk, his piercing gaze fixed upon you. Your heart thudded painfully in your chest, and your palms grew slick with sweat. You tried to steady your breathing, but it came out ragged and uneven.

For a moment, the two of you just stared at each other in silence. You could feel Kirigan's eyes on you, like he was peering into your very soul. You felt small and exposed, like a mouse caught in a trap.

Finally, you found your voice. “I need to talk to you about something,” you said, your words coming out in a rush.

“Of course,” he replied, his voice calm and measured.

Your heart was pounding so hard in your chest that you could barely hear him. You felt your hands start to shake, so you clasped them together tightly, hoping to hide the trembling.

“I don't know how to say this,” you began, your voice barely above a whisper. “But I have feelings for you, Aleksander. I've had them for a long time. I can't stop thinking about you.”

His expression didn't change, and for a moment you feared that he hadn't heard you. But then he spoke, his words cold and distant. “I see,” he said. “And how do you expect me to respond to that?”

The chill in his voice made you feel like you'd been doused in ice water. You swallowed hard, trying to fight back the tears that threatened to spill over. “I just needed to tell you,” you said, your voice trembling a little. “I needed to know where we stand.”

He raised an eyebrow. “And where do you think we stand?”

You were caught off guard by his question, which caused you to unconsciously take a step back while looking at Aleksander in confusion. The room appeared to have suddenly become cooler, although you couldn't tell if it was just your tired mind projecting false perceptions. Kirigan subtly tilted his head and kept his dark eyes on you as he waited for your response, showing no intention of saying anything further.

You took a deep breath. “I hate that I was always yours and you were never mine,” you said, the words bursting out of you before you could stop them. “I hate that you made me feel like I was special, like I was important to you, and then you just tossed me aside when Alina came along.”

A look of anger flashed across his face, and you realized that you'd hit a nerve. “You're being ridiculous,” he snapped. “I never promised you anything.”

“That's not the point,” you said, your voice rising in pitch. “The point is that you manipulated me, Aleksander. You made me think that you cared about me, that you wanted me, and then you just... disappeared. It wasn't fair.”

He leaned back in his chair, his expression stony. “Life isn't fair, my dear,” he said. “You should know that by now.”

You felt a surge of anger, and you squared your shoulders. “I thought you were different,” you said. “I thought you were better than this. But I guess I was wrong.”

He glared at you, his eyes blazing with fury. “How dare you speak to me like that?” he said, his voice low and dangerous.

“I'm not going to be your puppet anymore, Aleksander,” you said, your voice steady. “I'm not going to let you manipulate me and use me like you did before. I deserve better than that.”

He stood up, his fists clenched at his sides. “You don't know what you're talking about,” he said, his voice shaking with anger. “You have no idea what kind of power Alina has. You have no idea what's at stake here.”

“I don't care,” you said, your voice fierce.

The tension in the room was palpable, suffocating, as you and Aleksander faced off. The air crackled with unspoken words, with the weight of all the unresolved issues that lay between you like an unbridgeable chasm.

But then something snapped in your head, and you realized who you were actually talking to. This was the commander of the Second Army. The Shadow Summoner. And you were treading on very thin ice.

You felt a sudden surge of fear, but you refused to give way. You squared your shoulders once more and looked him straight in the eye, trying to summon all the confidence you could muster. “You want to banish the Fold?” you said, your voice unsteady. “I'll help. But after that, I'm out of here.”

There was a long pause, and you held your breath, waiting for his response. Aleksander's face was inscrutable, but you could feel the weight of his gaze on you like a physical force. You felt small and insignificant in his presence, but you refused to show any weakness.

Finally, he spoke, his voice low. “You think you can just waltz in here and make demands?” he said. “You think you have any bargaining power?”

You cleared your throat, “I know what I can offer,” you said, trying to sound confident. “I have skills that could be useful to you.”

Aleksander sit down again, his eyes narrowed. “And what makes you think I need your skills?” he asked.

You felt a rush of anger, but you kept it in check. “Because I know what it's like to be used, Aleksander,” you said, feeling a sudden surge of courage. As if playing with fire brings you pleasure. “I know what it's like to be manipulated and discarded. And I don't want that to happen to anyone else. Especially not Alina.”

There was a long pause, and you held your breath, waiting for his response. Finally, he nodded, a small, tight smile on his lips. “Very well,” he said. “You have a deal. But remember this, my dear. You are playing a dangerous game. And if you cross me, there will be consequences.”

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writerfae · 28 days

Note

Henry and Callan pining for each other

Forest critters that live at their meeting spot: FOR THE LOVE OF GODS! JUST KISS ALREADY!

Kid Aiden: You seem to be in a good mood

Henry, who just came back from kissing Callan: Yeah...

Me, imagining this: Aiden, you prure, innocent, oblivious soul...

Henry, giving brotherly wisdom

Aiden, looking at a butterfly: Did you say something?

Also, can I just say how much I've been loving Adél lately? (Ever since I last complained about her, then I tweaked something 🙈 so thanks for all the help with that❤️)

She is beauty, she is grace, she doesn't want to be doing any of this, but no one else will! She is shaking in her boots, but we love her for it!

Everyone ships Callan and Henry. You, me, all of the court, the birds, the tree they used to sit under as kids…. They’re just that adorable together 🥰

And I’m glad to hear that you’re loving Adél so much! Growing attached to your character like that is one of the best feelings as a writer, I think. It can bring so much joy. And improve a story so much too.

I hope you keep loving Adél more and more! She deserves it, she’s a good character <3

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pedros-immaculate-vibes · 5 months

Text

A Peaceful Elf

Part X

Halsin/Tav fanfic (slow burn, fluff, angst)

The pine bark bit at your fingers in a familiar way. You had always found a path to commune with The Lady of the Forest while running your fingers through the cracks of a fir tree, closing your eyes and finding the chord in your soul that sung her melody. Injured, you hadn’t been able to visit her presence through prayers the way you did every morning; peace had rippled down through you as you knelt at her alter again.

Metaphorically knelt, of course—you no longer needed the splint, but your leg wasn’t prepared for that yet; although, it was far down the path to mended. Your Druid companion had a way with healing magic and repaired it faster than you had assumed was possible. No wonder those hands were so famous in the grove…

That thought almost severed your focus. Halsin’s morning voice wiped it clean away.

“Good morning, I see you’re up.” A yawn, uncannily like a bear, “I would have thought you’d like to sleep a bit later given last night.”

Gods, I hope I get to hear that sentence from him again, under different circumstances.

“I had a hard—Difficult time, falling back to sleep. It was a bit jarring,” you said, feeling your heart beat in more than one place. You needed to finish your prayers and to collect yourself. “I’ve been meditating all morning, I’m almost done, is it alright if you—”

“Oh, my apologies, I merely thought you were appreciating the pine forest. Carry on,” palms up in a placating way. “Find me when you’re done,” and he left.

A deep exhale, trying to ground yourself again. A few minutes later, and you were focused, pleading with your lady for strength, healing, and the wisdom to not do or say anything stupid today. You swore you heard a mirthful, light chuckle filter through the pine needles. You sent one last token of thanks, then closed the connection as gracefully as possible.

You made your way back to camp, feeling how others had told you they felt before a battle: shaky and heart pounding. You could blame it on the lack of sleep—clearly you were just exhausted. If he noticed (of which there was a good chance), that’s what you’d say. A little deception can smoothen out certain unavoidable discomforts. You began rounding a boulder that marked being within earshot of the camp when a sudden wave of relaxation washed over you from no where in particular.

My sincerest gratitude, Mielikki. You touched your forehead and offered your hand to the tree tops in thanks to the goddess.

Maybe today would be easy after all.

Arriving back at camp, you saw Halsin straddling the end of one of the campfire circle logs, slicing a third apple into wedges on a plate, the dish of honey nearby. He was still in his camp leisure attire, looking very comfortable. “Hello, again,” much less gravel in his voice. “I figured I could have a light breakfast before we head out and test that leg, if you’ve any interest.” He finished slicing the apple wedges and began drizzling honey over them, conservatively. “After what I did last night, I think one more healing should do the trick; however, feel free to correct me if I am mistaken.” He shook his head quickly to the side, sweeping his eyes back down at his plate, “you seemed to do a number to it while you slept, thank goodness you cried out when you did. I was quite entranced by a dream I was having…nothing less would have roused me,” he said with a mysterious smile.

…Could he have had…

No, no there’s no possible way.

You blinked, trying to regain your presence of mind.

“I think I have the strength for it now, when you’re ready. What did you have in mind?”

Halsin lifted his eyebrows and peered up at you. “I’m that effective a healer, am I? HaHA, I’ll take that as high praise,” he grinned, popping an apple wedge between his teeth. “Excellent! I’ll make quick work of this and ready a few more things. A patrol of the road and back should be enough, agreed?” as another wedge disappeared.

“Agreed.”

Not ten minutes pass before you both leave camp. You thought to bring the walking stick, but there’s no need, you felt fine. It would just be a burden. The walk should only take…you realize you have no idea how far you’ll be walking.

“How far is this little trek?”

“Do you see that ruin at the top of the hill?”

It was at least a quarter mile away. “…yeah.”

“To there.”

Oh, joy, okay, you thought with a quiet sigh.

“And if you start to ache before then, we can always turn back.” He meant it kindly; you took it as a challenge.

“I’ll be fine.”

***

You were not fine.

Trying to keep your breathing steady, you managed to make it to the top of the hill, driven by pure spite against your own wound. As someone with healing abilities, you should have known this was poor judgement; as someone who prided herself on being hard-headed, you chose to ignore that.

The injury was one thing. Still needing a good night’s rest was another. You were no githyanki warrior nor were you exactly built like you had designs to become a paladin; your strength came from shifting into something stronger. God’s only know where Halsin seems to get all of that from, you mused, looking at his shoulders.

He had begun pestering you with questions as soon as he saw the first limp. “And you’re sure you don’t require some assistance? I’ll remind you, I can’t heal you effectively while you still need to walk on it; you need to rest. Perhaps, if I tried healing you and carrying—”

“Tch,” a hand raised in resistance to the thought, “I already said I’d pass,” eyes wide at imagining the experience. “I have to maintain some level of dignity,” you muttered under your breath. Riding piggy back would ruin just about anything I have left.

He turned to face you, walking backward down the hill. “Have any acquaintances ever informed you that you have a stubborn streak as long as the Chionthar?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, they have. I’ve thanked them each time,” you stuck out your chin.

He smiled, sighed, and turned back toward the downhill path.

A moment passed, and he turned to face you again with a curious, mischievous look in his eyes. “Have you ever ridden a bear?”

“Wha—?” You’re face drained, realizing what he meant. “No, absolutely not. There is NO possible way I—”

In that instant, Halsin hunched while his eyes glowed and his smile turned to one with fangs and fur, and then…

You were faced with a cave bear, the same gigantic one from what felt like months ago at the goblin camp. It seemed intent on not letting you walk the rest of the way down, blocking your path when you tried to circumvent the beast.

And of all the options you had at your disposal, you decided running was the best. Limp be damned.

“No no no no NO no no no No,” you chanted, almost to the Lady of the Forest herself, praying to keep a shred of self respect by miraculously making it back to the camp on your own, the giant bear in tow. You heard a howl that sounded suspiciously like his laugh, closer than you expected. “BY HELM’S BEARD, IF YOU—” and you never finished the sentence. Catching up with you, Halsin curved his snout around your waist from behind and leapt slightly, bouncing you onto his back. You caught the fur at his shoulder blades, then worked your way up to a slanted sitting position.

You were mortified.

You were relieved.

This was exhilarating.

***

“What would you have happened if I’d fallen? You complete idiot!” You tried to foment some level of anger in yourself. What he’d done was objectively stupid; you should probably be mad…right?

“I wasn’t going very quickly. And, I would have caught you, of course,” not a shred of doubt in his response as he found his pipe and began packing it by the campfire.

“Caught me with your bare hands, would you?” You were proud of the pun.

“My elven ones, yes. I’d planned on shifting and catching you, should your balance fail,” not a drop of remorse as a few sparks came from his flint and knife, igniting a glow within the borders of a stray campfire coal he’d grabbed.

MY BALANCE FAIL. For some reason, that subtle dig did find purchase in your irritation.

He lit the pipe with the glowing coal end, notching it between his canines. Glancing up at you, he must have seen the growing ire.

“I promise to not do it again, on my honor,” removing the pipe and placing one hand to his chest, looking down like a knight swearing fealty, “until you request it of me,” his gaze rose back up to yours with a smirk.

“You regret nothing, do you?” You smiled back in astonishment, no longer able to sustain the annoyance. “And I’M the stubborn one.”

“You are. You’re just not the only stubborn one, dear one,” placing the pipe back in his mouth, his lips encircling it with a grin. He sauntered back to the tent, kneeling by the side of your cot to sift through the equipment bag.

There was that title again. When did you hear it last…Had you heard it before, or had you imagined it?

He paused his searching, hung his head and sighed deeply. Turning on his heels back to you, he soberly added, “If I have truly wronged you, I do apologize. Sometimes, I let the bear get the better of me, but I should not make that your concern,” he smiled, wanly.

“Thank you,” you replied, distracted from your thoughts. “Just don’t surprise me next time, alright?” You mustered the very last gram of irritation you had left on the subject.

“I promise,” he nodded. “Now, if you’re not opposed, let’s take a look at that leg.”

You’d temporarily forgotten the ache until that moment. “I’ll be honest, riding a bear probably wasn’t the best choice with an injured thigh,” you remarked, walking unevenly to the cot.

“…You’re not wrong,” he agreed, scratching his forehead, horror poorly concealed as it crept into his features. “Has the pain worsened?”

Your eyes twinkled as you sat down, enjoying his discomfort, “No.”

“Silvanus preserve me, woman,” he huffed under his breath, both vexed and relieved. Victory, as he began puffing billows again, muttering, “Let’s take a look.”

He lowered to one knee and allowed you to move your skirts to the side, once more. The bandage was clean, and not wanting to waste good wrappings, he took the time to unravel it. You reminded yourself to breath evenly.

“Hmm,” a thoughtful exhale, as he viewed the healing claw marks, “still progressing well.” He’d wanted to heal the wound focusing with the interior, first; the aesthetics and exterior came after the most vital areas.

He placed the pipe by his lowered knee, shut his eyes, hovered his palms over the wound, and stretched his neck up to the tent ceiling. A pale green glow crackled silently around his hands and your leg, his eyebrows knitting as he focused, muscles taught in his arms and throat.

Shamelessly, you admired the view.

The glow subsided, as did the ache in your thigh. His eyes opened, clear and focused, migrating to you. “How does it feel now?”

Clearing your throat, “Better. Thank you.”

“Of course,” he looked down, grinning. He raised an eyebrow, inhaling deeply, and still not looking directly at you, “You should get some rest, let the healing set in a bit. Perhaps take those hours you couldn’t after your,” his voice became husky, “after this morning.” He collected the wrappings and replaced the pipe, puffs of the sweet and earthy smoke floating up and out through a few well placed vents in the tent sheets. “I’ll finish my rounds, maybe see if I can find anything for dinner.”

“Or more honey.”

An unfiltered chuckled slipped from his lips, “Or more honey.” He rose, still not looking directly at you. “Get some rest.” And with that, he was gone, lowering the tent flap to allow a bit more shade for your respite.

You nestled into the blanket, the same one you had designs to make your own; so far, those designs seemed to moving along nicely.

***

You awoke hours later, according to the sun’s placement: just before noon. There was no sign of your campmate. Your leg had rested long enough, you thought, easing your way up and off the cot. Peering out between the tent panels, you looked for any sign of him; still, nothing. After asking the cub and Scratch, you’d found he had not returned. The patrols weren’t short trips, but three hours? Odd. Scowling at the tree line, you heard movement far off; rhythmic movement, like walking. There was no way to tell yet if it was Halsin or someone you were less interested in meeting. Glad I centered myself this morning. You tuned yourself to your Rothe shape, grinding your right leg into the dirt, testing for any lingering ache. You gathered it was fully healed as your wild shape remained prepared; the idea of a fight brought you an odd sense of satisfaction.

*Rustle* *SnAp* *sNap*

An audible stumble followed.

This didn’t sound like an invader. You remained waiting, still crouched behind the corner of the tent.

A large hand pushed back the concealing, low-hanging bough: Halsin’s hand. He carried an unfamiliar satchel and strode the few yards between you slower and less adamantly than you were used to.

“Did something happen?”

“Yes, but not something, a few someone’s.” With one hand, he moved a log that lay between him and camp. “Not to worry, they’ve been dispatched. They did, however, have a few sundry items I think our camp may appreciate.”

“Oh! Well that’s a nice surprise. We don’t usually get very good loot.”

“Not often, no,” he agreed, stopping at the edge of camp to meet you. “Did you rest well enough?”

You would have answered if you hadn’t seen the oozing gash on his face and cuts on his arm.

“What kind of fight was it?” Visually taking the injuries in. A few more on his other arm, one looked like an arrow had grazed him.

“A few thieves looking for easy prey. They judged poorly. Nothing to concern yourself with,” he answered mildly and he pressed forward to the center of camp.

“Halsin, those don’t look great.”

“I’m alright.” He unpacked the thieves’ satchel, piling food into the communal basket.

“Halsin. Stop what you’re doing.” You mimicked a paralyzing glare as best you could, and pointed to the tent at your right. “Tent.”

—

I hope I hear that again under different circumstances, He thought, admiring Tav’s steely portrayal of authority..

—

“Stubborn bear,” you murmured as you followed him to the cot. “Sit down and let me take a look.” The height difference between the two of you seemed even more prominent now that you tried to assert some level of power over the situation. A crooked smile as he looked down at you, “Yes, little healer,” eyes never leaving yours as he sunk down to the edge of the cot.

“Thank you,” as curt as possible, with a tinge of concern in your voice.

You took in the wound on his face, still bleeding. There is no way this doesn’t hurt like the hells. A clean cut, but deep. Another two on his left upper arm, more superficial, and that arrow graze on his right forearm. Now it was you rifling through the medical pack, looking for something to clean with. The clotting had started and you needed a clearer view. “How many were there?”

“A few.”

“Halsin.”

He maintained his bemused gaze. “Eight.”

Eight? “Eight what?”

“Thieves, I told you, little one.”

“Eight gnomes? Eight gnolls? Eight what?” Depending on their faction, you may have had to worry about poison on their blades.

“Just men, maybe a few half-orcs. Nothing likely to have exotic coatings on their weapons,” He looked passed you as you cleaned the facial laceration. Alright, so he’s thinking the same thing. Holy hells, that sounds bad, though.

“Eight men and half-orcs? And you just—you just fought them off.”

“Not exactly, they had laid an embarrassingly well-concealed trap. I was dangling from a treetop for a bit, there.”

Your hand paused. Then resumed.

“The netting was weak and did nothing for a cave bear,” he grinned slightly, wincing at the pain the smiled caused. “By that point, they’d heard the alarms attached to the trap and came running. I found higher ground and held it. Easily dispatched.” He concluded as if talking about what dish he’d planned for that evening.

You were speechless for a moment. There was no chastising him, what could he have done differently? There was no comforting him since he seemed fairly ambivalent if not proud of the outcome. “I’m glad this is all you sustained,” a quiet relief in your voice.

His eyes met yours, “As am I, dear one.”

I could easily kiss him right now, maybe see if he moves the same way as that dream, your mind wandered, so you asked about the scar he already had next to the one you hoped wouldn’t form.

He looked past you again, recollecting. “Ah, that, well, sometimes Nature forgets I am not wed to it, and needs reminding.” He shifted in the cot slightly, then looked at you, seeming to think you’d understand.

Confused and almost done cleaning the rust-colored flakes from his left temple, “Needs reminding of what?”

“Well, ha,” he stumbled over his words, self-consciously. “I didn’t exactly pick this scar up in battle. I was in wildshape, only I forgot it was the season when bears are…particularly social,” he mentioned, modestly. “A she-bear claimed me as her own, and did not appreciate being spurned,” almost a chuckle.

“…Oh, I—I see…” you stammered, as you examined the cut, unsure what to say in response. Now who’s self-conscious. You realized that up until that point, neither of you had mentioned actions akin to being “particularly social”. “Does it still hurt at times?”

“Not for many years. The last it felt tender was probably before you were born.”

A smirk at his assumption and subtle fishing since you had yet to mention your age. “I’m 62, Halsin.” You judged that the wound would heal easily with a magic touch.

He hesitated. “…Really? Unexpected. I suppose you would have been a youth, then,” he stated, making his head bob yet again.

“I suppose so… Now hold still,” you told him, one hand beginning to glow near his left temple while the other gently but firmly held his chin steady. You could feel his face pull into suppressed smile. Beneath your illuminated palm, the skin stitched back together, just like it had done hundreds of other times. “There, good as new,” you said, gently rubbing a thumb over where the cut had disappeared.

“Ha, it’s strange being treated instead of treating. I’m usually where you are.”

“Well, then, perhaps you’ve had this coming for a long time.”

His head leaned almost imperceptibly into your palm.

“Thank you, Tav.” His eyes rose to yours, “You’re not a bad healer yourself.” The compliment was minor, but the look in his eyes…

The look made gravity shift.

“I try,” a humble response with a humbler smile. You realized your other hand was still holding his chin. You used it to pat him on his shoulder. “Do you need help with the others?” You turned to the supply bag, pretending to look for more supplies to clean the wounds with. His arms were resting on his lap, propping him up. You hoped he would accept just so you had an excuse to let him see you on your knees in front of him. I’m just torturing myself, by this point.

A deep inhale as he examined the remaining scratches, beginning to treat the wounds himself as easily as flicking away drops of mud. “You’re too kind. I’ve had much worse, trust me. Thank you, however.” There was the wall again. You could sense the tension dissipate immediately, like a torch being thrown into a pond.

“Of course…old bear,” you shot with a smirk, still rummaging through the satchel.

—

His face shot left, up towards Tav’s, a quirk of a grin. He looked forward again, setting his jaw and standing up as if about to take his leave. With his left hand, he grabbed the back of her tunic, lifted the half-elf up a few inches and tossed her on the recently evacuated cot, smiling to himself as he left the tent.

Old bear. Not that old, he thought with a scoff.

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cluelessteam · 4 months

Text

Eternal Harmony: {~Melody of Souls~}

Summary: Y/N's ordinary life takes a supernatural twist when they encounter the mysterious Cullen family in Forks. Immersed in a world of eternal love and trials, Y/N becomes a vital part of the Cullens' immortal story. Guided by Alice's visions and Jasper's wisdom, they face cosmic threats and navigate the complexities of supernatural existence. The story unfolds through eclipses of emotions and trials, culminating in a dawn where enduring bonds and love echo through the ages—a forever-bound journey in the supernatural realm.

Characters: The Cullen family

Pairing: Jasper x Reader x Alice

Warnings: No Warnings

Word Count: 624

Chapter 2 --- Chapter 3

The dense forest surrounding Forks seemed to come alive as Alice, Jasper, and Y/N ventured deeper into its depths. The towering trees, shrouded in mist, arched overhead, creating a natural cathedral that resonated with a profound sense of ancient wisdom. The forest floor, adorned with ferns and moss, cradled their steps in a carpet of nature's embrace.

Alice, her every movement a dance with the unseen, turned to Y/N. "Our family is not what it seems, and the secrets of our existence are written in the language of the forest."

Jasper, walking with a quiet confidence, added, "We've lived through centuries, seen civilizations rise and fall. The forest harbors the echoes of our immortal journey."

As they meandered through the verdant sanctuary, Alice occasionally paused to pick a wildflower or share a snippet of the future she glimpsed. The air was thick with the earthy scent of pine, and the distant murmur of a hidden stream added a melodic undertone to the symphony of nature that surrounded them.

Y/N, caught in the enchantment of their surroundings, couldn't help but feel a growing sense of curiosity. "What are you trying to show me?" they asked, their voice a mere whisper in the vastness of the ancient woods.

Alice turned to Y/N, her golden eyes reflecting the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. "A place where we can truly be ourselves. A place away from prying eyes."

Soon, the trio reached a secluded meadow bathed in the soft glow of sunlight filtering through the trees. It was a place untouched by the passage of time, a sanctuary hidden from the curious gazes of the mortal world. As they settled into the natural tranquility, Edward and Bella emerged from the shadows, their presence adding another layer to the unfolding tale.

Edward, with his tousled bronze hair and a gaze that seemed to pierce through the veil of reality, greeted Y/N with a nod. "Welcome to our secret haven."

Bella, her warmth a contrast to Edward's intensity, added, "You're in for quite a journey, Y/N. The Cullen family has its fair share of surprises."

As they sat in the meadow, the Cullens began to share snippets of their immortal lives. Carlisle, with his sage-like wisdom, and Esme, the epitome of maternal grace, joined the group, each member contributing to the mosaic of stories that made up their shared history.

Emmett, with his infectious enthusiasm, regaled Y/N with tales of epic encounters with formidable foes. "You've got a front-row seat to the best supernatural show in town," he boomed, flashing a grin that could rival the sun.

Rosalie, elegant and enigmatic, offered Y/N a nod of acknowledgment. "You've entered a world of legends, dear. Choose your path wisely."

As the afternoon unfolded, Y/N found themselves immersed in the vibrant tapestry of the Cullen family. Laughter, shared memories, and the unspoken bonds of kinship filled the air. Amidst the tales of their supernatural existence, Y/N sensed a palpable harmony, a melody of souls that resonated within the heart of this extraordinary family.

Alice, ever attuned to the nuances of the future, turned to Y/N. "You're a part of this now, Y/N. Embrace the melody, for your presence has added a unique note to our eternal composition."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the meadow, the Cullen family stood together. In the quietude of the twilight, Y/N felt a sense of belonging that transcended the boundaries of mortality. Little did they know that the journey had only just begun, and the melody of their intertwined destinies would echo through the ages, creating a symphony of immortal love and timeless connections.

#Twilight #Edward Cullen #Alice Cullen #Emmet Cullen #Bella Cullen #Rosalie Hale #Jasper Hale #Carlisle Cullen #Esme Cullen #Fanfic #jasper x reader #alice x reader #Jasper x Alice #jasper x reader x alice

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countessaustelle · 8 months

Text

of petrichor and decay

pairing: aether x reader (neutral)

tags: mild angst, character death, horseman of the apocalypse, death! aether

— in which death followed you. and somehow, the scent of home was wherever he was.

***

You saw them every day. The people of this village were all familiar faces.

The village had been quaint, barely populated, and settled on a pine forest at the far outskirts of a gilded empire. It reeked of petrichor on most days—it rained as often as the overgrown greenery caused housing problems (no, we will not talk about that one day you awoke to a bunch of insects on your bed). The other days were suffused with the stench of decaying wood and pine resin.

The forest land was barren, unable to procure vegetation, for all its deceptively rich-colored plains. And even in the presence of the sun, the cold never wavered. You had the trees and grass to thank, or maybe curse, for it all.

"We’re like a gathering of exiled citizens," you once joked over a fireplace assembly. Flames crackling tinder to the hearth. Its warmth had been salvation to your iced hands kissed by the neverending cold.

It elicited a laugh from some, mainly the younger adults and older teens, but the elders glared at you in mild bemusement.

“Oh shut up, [Name].”

“Leave them all alone, they’re telling the truth. Just admit that the empire only cares for us when the other kingdoms covet the land we walk on.”

"Shh, enough of that! Let's all eat in peace and quiet please."

“Klee doesn’t understand what that means, but…” a little girl — Klee, she had been named — enthusiastically placed her hands on your leg in curiosity and… regrettably, trust. “[Name], is it true that His Majesty doesn’t care about us anymore?”

The answer you gave her that day faded in recesses of memories. All you remember were the illuminated stars in her adorably round eyes as she listened, and when she said–

“It doesn’t matter. We have each other! We’ll be the rulers of this land and fight off the bad guys on our own!”

You clapped, whooed and laughed it off, letting the child inside you run amuck. She whooed back and stretched her hands in the air. The village people, your family, couldn't help but join in on your contagious joy.

“I’ll have to do my best to protect this lovely princess then.”

You were carefree like this, running your hand through the tresses of a young girl you considered to be your own daughter, for what she saw in you was a family she could depend on and you accepted it without requisite.

This was all you ever wanted. She did not want it to end either.

But you were no longer young. Not like her.

Your mind held the kind of wisdom unbefitting for such wishful thinking.

In the depths of your soul, you knew, it was imminent.

You wished upon the stars it would happen when she was old enough to know it had been something ordained by fate, and neither you nor her should hold anyone accountable for the anguish of what’s to come.

Perhaps–

You should have also wished it happened when you were strong enough to endure the pain it left in its wake.

Because this was it. This was divine punishment if you had ever felt it.

“Klee?”

Her hand went limp in your hold. The plague stole her away.

Your mind barely registered the screaming, the crying, and the panic, and onslaught of medics.

A knife twisted itself deep and you could not bring yourself to remove it, for all the pain it came with remembering her, the thought of her fading from your memories had been akin to blood leaving your body.

It hurt even more.

And it hurt even more to know your soul would never heal from such a meteor strike. She had been that, color to a bleak world, and she would never set the world alight again.

Death watched as your soul perished that day.

You must have been delirious. You were, truthfully. It was a wonder how you hadn’t been put in an ethylic coma for all the bottles you’ve downed.

It had been a hazy recollection of a tavern visit, of the stench of alcohol and hard gin burning your throat until the owner sweatdropped upon seeing your wretched state. You brought it upon yourself to be thrown out.

Then, you ambled wobbly through the throng, and the people cared not for the drunkard wallowing in their midst.

There were all kinds of people that night, all unfamiliar faces of people who lived inside the kingdom. Some boasted lavish jewelry, some were draped in ragged cloth, but in honesty, it was difficult to tell which of them were real and which weren’t.

One person looked familiar, in a red dress and pearl accessories. You swore it was Grandmother Tang from home who used to scold you for making unfunny, borderline worrying jokes. You almost approached her, had you not been overcome with memories of her passing out next to a river, and the next thing, she had been dead not long after showing symptoms of the plague, and the stranger in front appraised you with a scathing look.

You walked away, hand clutching your heart and with ragged breaths.

Ha… just stop beating already.

When you finally gathered the strength to look up once more, you concluded that the person across you must also be a part of your ongoing delusion. Everyone passed him by as though he was a ghost. But he was not, because you could see him.

It was startling. He seemed familiar in a way you’d know him without sight—from the overwhelming scent that came from him, of petrichor and decaying wood.

Curiously, he smelled like the pine trees from home. You longed, ached to inch closer.

You’d caught him watching over you many times, all encounters after she passed away. You'd joke he was death biding his time to take you away, but his presence had been too comforting, too much like an immovable object in a world that moved on too fast.

He, who wore a long white robe, tattered at the bottom and discolored as though he’d walked the ends of the earth. His head was enshrouded by a large hood. A white veil covered the bottom half of his face, and a fog shrouded the upper half with two glowing circles that gave the impression of eyes, perfectly complementing his flowing blonde braid.

In his right hand was always a rope tied to an intimidating, almost looming pale stallion horse.

And you stared at him for the longest time.

People walked past in a blur. Their idle chatter barely registered in your mind.

Then he looked back at you.

With his hand slowly reaching out.

Until you blinked once, the world resumed its flow and everything was as it was. And he was gone.

You met him again sooner than you expected. Or perhaps, you had already lost track of the flow of time. Either way, it had been outside of your realm of possibilities—having already accepted he was a mere figment of your imagination, born from gnawing loneliness.

The last you saw him had been at a night market swarming with people coming out for leisure and shopping. The next, it had been this, with your back against the bark of a tree, hand calloused from wielding a blade, and blood dripping from your side.

An unparalleled entity who went by the alias Horseman of Conquest raided the lands. You had become a warrior outside of your will. They had all said it was necessary for the protection of this empire’s people.

Do it for honor, do it to protect.

But you had no one to protect. Not anymore.

“Why do you live on?” he asked, coldly. The first time he spoke to you. It reminded you of the frigid weather of a pine forest. Once again, you shivered at the way he brought you the feeling of home so easily.

“I don’t know,” you answered, truthfully. “I am still searching for an answer to that question myself.”

“Is seeking the meaning of life worth the anguish brought by the lack of it?”

“Maybe it does. Maybe it will, for me, or it won't…”

You paused, breathing heavily as you remembered Klee’s words.

“Even if it does not, I must live, even just for the sake of fulfilling the promise I made to a little girl decades ago.”

"At the cost of your decay?"

"At the cost of my decay and future incarnations."

Silence followed in a deafening echo.

He chuckled. "A noble will, of course, how befitting," was what he said. It was hard to find a smile in a face so shrouded, but your instincts told you he wore one, for his voice softened as if he recalled a fond memory.

"You never told me your name. You have… been watching me all this time. It almost feels paramount that I at least know your name, wouldn't you agree?"

"No, that is not necessary, however…"

He stared at you for a time, as though contemplating on an act. Then he knelt until your foreheads leveled. Your hands curled up in a fist.

It was utterly confounding. You had a sudden urge to wrap your arms around his neck and pull him close until you wore his smell, engraved it into your mind. He was so close and the prospect was so, so tempting. He smelled like an oasis for a dehydrated man. He seemed so warm, so divine in white that you wondered if he bled, would ichor spill?

What was this feeling?

"You will know in due time."

Hoping was setting yourself up for the worse, you uttered to yourself once upon a time. You couldn't force yourself to believe that, not this time, however. Your feelings were reciprocated the moment he lifted his hand, hesitating, until he solidified the courage to lift your arm by the wrist.

Archons, his gloved hands were rough from the teared leather. It felt so right to be held like this. Temptation's whispers exacerbated each second that passed by.

"This One will wait for you. To the ends of earth, until the end of time."

A kiss through veiled lips reached your bloodied palm.

And just like that, the warmth vanished once more. He was gone.

You couldn't wait to see him again.

In the next encounter, you swore you would not hold back. You had no reason to.

You just weren't expecting yourself to find him, rather than he found you.

You had condemned your life and future incarnations the moment you prayed to the heavens you'd lay your life to give the people you loved a second chance at life out of grief, never again will you live on as a human.

Death watched from the sidelines, waiting and waiting and waiting, if you would change your mind. You never did. Death eventually found you in a cave suffering from blood loss, cursing the divine.

He ended your despair with a single thrust of his blade.

And now…

"Let us get moving. There is no more time left to waste."

You turned your head to look at his face. He looked as divine as you envisioned, with eyes that could rival the sun.

It was just the two of you traveling across a grassy plain, long had he foregone the shrouds of his face in your presence.

You sighed. "This One is following."

"This One knows you are, although you should maintain a pace closer to This One's periphery," he said. "The world might turn upside down if you disappeared from This One's sight."

You heaved a bigger sigh, letting a laugh break through. This guy… he can never gather the courage to tell you what you already know, can't he?

You pulled the reins until your black horse caught up with his own.

The sun set for the silhouettes of two horse riders that day.

No one will ever live to tell their tale, nor will they know the tale of how Death waited for Famine.

Perhaps he did not, perhaps he found them by chance. The only time he had been pitied by the divine.

Perhaps, Famine faded as time went on. They would be reborn again and he would wait once more for their return. Maybe they disappeared forever, leaving Death in his own eventual oblivion.

Maybe they never died, and for all eternity, they remained by Death's side.

That would make a happy ending, wouldn't it?

this is my apology post for the people who are still waiting for the abyss aether fic sequel TT i've been falling out from the genshin fandom for months and only recently did i have an influx of ideas for it. i'm at 3k word count and still nowhere near the end. but something's happening!! and i am getting bolder!! (hehe)

#aether genshin impact #genshin impact aether #genshin impact #genshin aether #genshin impact fanfic #genshin impact x reader #aether #aether x reader angst #aether x reader #genshin impact angst #genshin #why is tagging so hard im gonna cry #astronetwrk

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