#& replies.akc

[estfenrirswood]

@voodoopcwer

The soft glow of evening draped gently over Sune's Harbour, casting long shadows and painting the cobblestone streets with hues of amber and gold. Aiysha stood on the porch of her home, a serene Victorian nestled amidst the historical charm of the neighborhood. The day had passed quietly, the echoes of the recent full moon still lingering in the air—the time when Bast, the sleek black panther, had been entrusted to her care. Not just her care, but for her protection, as Zyne had insisted. Aiysha had watched over Bast with a mix of reverence and affection during the moonlit hours, ensuring he felt at ease amidst the mystical energies that surged through Fenrirswood during such nights.

The soft light of early morning filtered through the curtains of Aiysha and Catalina's Victorian home in Sune's Harbour, casting a tranquil glow over the polished wooden floors and antique furnishings. Aiysha stood on the front porch, sipping on some fresh herbal tea as the remnants of the full moon's energy waned outside. She had just finished tidying up after watching over Bast, while Catalina had gone off to shift safely.

The sound of approaching footsteps pulled Aiysha from her reverie. She looked to see Zyne's figure emerging from the dimly lit street, his presence exuding a calm assurance that belied the recent events of the night. Aiysha smiled warmly as he approached, his gaze meeting hers with a silent understanding of the bond they shared—a mutual respect for the mystical and the magical that defined their lives in Fenrirswood.

"Good morning Zyne," Aiysha greeted him softly, stepping forward to embrace him in a brief but warm hug, careful to not spill her tea on either of them. "Bast did wonderfully last night. He was right at home here."

She led Zyne inside, where the comforting scent of incense mingled with the faint remnants of herbal tea. The living room welcomed them with its eclectic decor—antique tapestries adorning the walls, shelves filled with ancient tomes and artifacts, and a fireplace crackling softly with residual warmth. They passed through the kitchen, where Catalina was encouraging her twins to relax & eat as they were trying to excitedly reminisce to their mother what it was like sleeping with a panther near by. The witch introduced the three briefly to him before continuing their path towards his familiar.

"Bast is just in here," Aiysha said, guiding Zyne towards the corner where the panther lay sprawled across a thick rug, his sleek form a silhouette against the dying embers of the fire. "He's been quite content, but I think he's ready to be back with you."

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha glanced up from her own meal at Hector's remark. She appreciated his support for queer-owned businesses, a cause close to her heart. "Oh, absolutely," she cheered. "It's wonderful to see businesses celebrating diversity and inclusion, especially during Pride month." Aiysha's eyes twinkled with appreciation as she gestured towards the pride-themed additions on the menu. "I haven't tried the new item yet, but I've heard great things. I'm glad to hear it's as good as they say."

She leaned in slightly, a spark of camaraderie in her gaze. "Supporting businesses that promote equality is not just about the food—it's about fostering a community where everyone feels valued and welcomed."

status: open

location: dirty pete

"it's good to see queer owned businesses, isn't it?" he asks another patron at the restaurant. hector had only come to pick up his order, but he couldn't help but notice the addition for pride month on the menu. "personally i like to support them whenever i can, i think it's good cause. plus, it helps that the food here isn't half bad. have you tried the new menu item?"

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha smiles warmly as she greets Lilette, her eyes reflecting the genuine pleasure of seeing a familiar face in Thistle and Sage. The professor's presence often brought a delightful mix of curiosity and conversation to the shop, making her more of a cherished regular than a mere visitor.

"Business has been quite good, thank you," Aiysha replies with enthusiasm, her tone matching the cozy ambiance of the occult shop. She catches onto Lilette's curiosity of the newly displayed crystals and she beams in satisfaction."These crystals are indeed something special," she starts, her voice carrying a hint of reverence for the natural wonders before them. "Each one holds its own story and energy. The one you're drawn to," Aiysha nods towards the triangular crystal that the other feels emanates a nostalgic aura, "is a Carnelian Flame Crystal Point.. It's known for its ability to evoke creativity & stimulate passion. "

As Lilette's fingers gently explore the crystal's smooth surface, Aiysha watches with quiet understanding, knowing well the professor's keen academic curiosity. "They say each crystal chooses its keeper," she muses happily, her eyes sparkling with a shared appreciation for the mystical qualities they both cherish. "I'd love to hear more about what memories it stirs in you."

The air in Thistle and Sage seems to shimmer with the unspoken stories these crystals hold, waiting to be discovered and shared among kindred spirits like Aiysha and Lilette.

・ ✦ ・ 𝐩𝐜𝐥𝐲𝐦𝐜𝐫𝐩𝐡𝐜𝐮𝐬 / * ( closed starter @estfenrirswood )

"How has business been?" A light, airy bell echoes as she pulls on the lever handle of the door, its polished brass cool to the touch, though she carries a warmth with her as always. Thistle and Sage, the occult shop, is frequently haunted by Lilette Vaz. The professor is a regular, or perhaps a nuisance depending on Aiysha's patience and predilection for chatting with visitors.

Her eyes scan a new display of crystals, their facets catching the light and casting a dazzling array of colors and patterns across the room. She is drawn to them as Painted Lady butterflies are to summer lilacs and fuchsia hollyhocks. "These are beautiful. You'll have to tell me about them."

As she approaches, she feels a slight tingling sensation emanating from one crystal in particular. The one in the center, triangular and reminiscent of a flame, evokes peculiar emotions within her. "This one," she points to the crystal, her voice tinged with curiosity and nostalgia, "it's making me feel nostalgic." Lilette's fingers brush lightly over the smooth, cool surfaces, her academic mind eager to unravel the mysteries they hold. The vibrant hues and intricate inclusions within the crystals are like windows into other worlds, each glance revealing new facets of their beauty and power.

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha led him further into Thistle & Sage, the shelves lined with an assortment of herbs, crystals, and other mystical items. “Protection is always a good reason,” she nodded. “And experimenting with new recipes is a great way to deepen your connection with the materials. Each herb and stone has its own unique vibration. What recipes?”

She glanced at the list Bijan was holding. “Yes, we have a variety of herbs and stones here. Rose Quartz, for example, is great for promoting love and healing energy. And yes, you can buy it in different forms, even powdered if you need it that way for a specific use.” As they moved through the store, Aiysha’s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. “We do get a fair number of customers, especially on days like these when the energy feels particularly strong. People come seeking guidance, protection, or just a bit of magic to brighten their day. Each one brings their own unique energy to the shop, which makes every day different and exciting.”

She paused, picking up a small jar of lavender. “Here, this might be useful for you. Lavender is excellent for protection and calming the mind. And it’s always good to have a bit of peace in your practice.” Aiysha handed the jar to Bijan, her smile reassuring. “If you have any questions or need help with any of these items, feel free to ask. I’m always here to help. What else are we looking for today?”

Bijan chuckled at the questions. Perhaps he looked worse for wear, enough for other people to notice. He’d never minded, he simply found it interesting that people realised, and had the skills to study another person so quickly and come to such conclusions - and most importantly come to the right ones. “A few for protection, mostly a few to try out some new recipes,” he stated. He wasn’t too forward on his research, but he didn’t think he needed to be. According to the Coven Leader of Saga’s Coven, the spirits had clearly gathered around him, a mark of his connection to the Supernatural despite not being on himself. 

He touched the list as he followed the store’s owner. “I think most of these are herbs and stones,” he commented, as he ran his fingers over unfamiliar names. “Rose Quartz most definitely is, though I’m unaware you could buy them in three tea spoons.” He looked around the shelves, finding many matching names. “Do you have a lot of customers on days like these?” he asked.

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha looked up from her phone as Bijan entered the shop, her expression warm and welcoming. She noted the weariness etched into his features, a telltale sign of a restless night under the full moon's watch.

"Good morning," she greeted softly, setting aside a few polished stones with a gentle clink as she walked over to him. "Of course, I'd be happy to help. What's on this list of yours?" As she approached, Aiysha gestured for him to follow her toward a cozy corner of the shop where shelves lined with jars of herbs and powders awaited. "Are you searching for ingredients related to protection, perhaps?" she asked, her voice low and soothing. "Or something specific to aid with sleep?"

Growing up Bijan had never put much thought in the art of the mystical. Despite his house having been filled with strange knick knacks that had no real spiritual value but were still in the house regardless. That and his Islamic upbringing, which had an eye for the mystique but that too had been seen by the professor as more of a way to tell stories than anything else.

However, as one who was now associated with the Fenrir Pack, and who had three young wards who had all survived the Lycanthrope virus, Bijan no longer shied away from what he didn't understand.

He could not hear the spirits, could not request answers from them, but he nonetheless ensured there were a few shrines around his own place, if only so that if someone came to his door, they might lend a hand to him.

He was the first to enter the store that morning, not surprising, during the Full Moon Bijan slept very little. He had a small list of possible ingredients that could help with repelling the Lycanthrope virus, it was a long shot, but he needed to attempt any hypothesis.

"Good morning, I was wondering if you could help me with a list."

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha chuckled softly at Zyne's theatrical flair, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she listened to his charming banter. "Your confidence never fails to precede you," she teased, her voice carrying a hint of playful sarcasm. She appreciated his charisma and the way he effortlessly commanded attention wherever he went. "As sharp as my wit, hmm? Flattery will get you everywhere," she replied with a smirk, leading the way towards the storeroom where the supplies awaited. The room was full of boxes, boxes, & more boxes whose contains were largely labeled on the tops & sides. It smelled of every incense possible, but didn't clash in an offensive way to the nose.

"You know, I wouldn't trust anyone else with this task," she added with a nod of approval, acknowledging his expertise and dedication to his craft. "Let's make quick work of it, shall we? I'll ensure your efforts are duly rewarded," Aiysha said, her tone hinting at a promise of future lavender matchas and perhaps a favor in return for Zyne's assistance. She points to the box labeled 'thornapple, wolfsbane, & belladonna' that sits on a third shelf. It wasn't too high for either of them to reach & there was a step stool near by if necessary. "Care to lend a lovely lady like me a hand? I'll give you two free jars."

style and grace happens to follow the apothecary everywhere he goes. zyne cobriana the very definition of swagger. and he knows it too; which is why the attractive male behaves in the manner he openly does. when you got it—you flaunt it! and does he! zyne all smiles while basking in aiysha's company; keen on the effect he has on the other witch. her chestnut hues sparkling like amber oceans as they revel in his charismatic speech. hook, line, and sinker! ❛all the better to steal your heart, my dear.❜ zyne comments at last, winking in her direction afterwards. his eyes laser focused on her beauty as usual. ❛I'd be quite horrendous at my job, if I did not. and I don't have plans on my disrespecting my ancestors any time soon. the shame!❜ gasped the male dramatically, clutching the right side of his chest where his heart resides.

❛I don't skimp on my research either. and am relieved to know my primary sources are correct.❜ zyne adds in nonchalance, shoulders rotating as he begins to stretch; warming up whatever muscles may be required on this impromptu quest. zyne hopeful that he may earn a well deserved nap later on. since most of the evening and midnight hour would be used in preparation for the full moon and future clientele. simple strides are then made when following her lead. zyne laughing as he nears the elusive storeroom, full of stocked supplies. ❛why mrs. carver, your instincts are as sharp as your wit. and I, am at your service.❜

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha chuckled softly, feeling Zyne’s arm around her waist & leaning into the embrace. “Bast is quite the guardian, isn’t he? Always looking out for Salem and the rest of the family,” she remarked, appreciating Zyne’s humor and the warm, familial dynamics he shared with his pets. “It’s endearing to see that protective instinct in action. Bast always knows what’s best,” she added with a fond glance at the feline. “Salem does need looking after—they have a knack for getting into trouble."

She watched as Zyne ran his fingers through his curls, noting his relaxed demeanor despite the evident chaos he often dealt with. “You do seem to have a knack for rescuing people from their own misadventures,” she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “And I’m sure those collected favors will come in handy one day.”

As Zyne mentioned their ongoing game of courtship, Aiysha’s smile widened, her heart warmed by his playful yet sincere approach. “You always know how to keep things interesting, don’t you?” she remarked, her tone a mix of admiration and affection. “Preferred cut?” she echoed, tilting her head thoughtfully. “Marquise, princess, trillion, radiant, cushion, & criss,” she listed, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “If you get all of those on a ring, I might actually say yes.”

he couldn't help but chuckle at the progress report. zyne nodding his head alongside the characteristics that bast was known for. aware of the feline's savvy when it came to detecting and handling threats. the jaguar's instincts were a lot sharper than theirs; on par with any roaming wolves. if bast felt the need to remain still then all was well. ❛ he was most likely trying to keep salem from hurting themselves. as any older sibling or parental figure would.❜ zyne added finally, laughing as another of his pets offered their commentary through sound.

❛very.❜ sighed zyne while running his fingers through patterned curls. tresses a bit unkempt and in need of an afro pick but that could all be handled later. right now, his main concern was napping in place. ❛if I'm not patching someone up. I'm saving them from a mess of their own making. no worries though, I'll collect those favors at a much later date.❜ the apothecary wickedly teased with his signature chesire grin.

❛why yes. this game of courtship has been going on for some time. thought I'd up the ante.❜ the new orleans native explained, arm wrapped around her waist in an attempt to keep aiysha close and comforted. he most certainly was. ❛naturally. what's your preferred cut? princess? oval? say the word it's yours.❜ continued zyne with a lazy nonchalance.

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement at Zyne's charismatic banter and playful demeanor. She appreciated the way he effortlessly blended his deep knowledge of natural remedies with his innate charm, a testament to his heritage and upbringing."Oh, Zyne, you know just the right words to charm a witch," Aiysha replied with a teasing smile, her voice laced with good-natured humor. "And you're right about thornapple—it can be quite potent when used correctly. I suppose it's a good thing you know your way around herbs as well as you do."

She watched him inspect the shelves with a knowing look, her admiration for his expertise evident in her expression. Aiysha had always respected Zyne's connection to his ancestral roots and the depth of his knowledge in herbalism. "As for the drink," Aiysha continued, her tone light and playful. "I do have a weakness for a well-crafted lavender matcha, especially when it's on the house. Consider it a fair exchange for your skills in fetching the thornapple."

She tilted her head slightly, her gaze lingering on Zyne with a mixture of curiosity and fondness. "And don't worry about the manual labor too much. Think of it as a warm-up for the night ahead," she teased gently, knowing full well the demands the upcoming new moon would place on both of them. With a wink and a nod towards the curtained doorway leading to the back room, Aiysha gestured for Zyne to follow. "Shall we then, Mr. Cobriana? I have a feeling this batch of thornapple will be just what you need for the busy nights ahead."

❛ flattery will get you everywhere, my beloved.❜ chuckled zyne with humorous mirth while whiskey tinted orbs appraised the stocked shelves of jars; filled to the brim with dried herbs. when it came to natural remedies, no one work better with the ingredients than zyne cobriana; whose bloodline descended from witch priestesses traced back to ancient tribes in africa. not to mention, the cultural roots of his creole parentage as well; traditions steeped deep within the debonair defined male, who wore them all with honor and pride.

❛poisonous in nature but when used in the right amount makes for an useful antiseptic.❜ he explains with a mischievous grin, eyeing the statuesque witch as she leans against the wooden counter with ease. zyne making note of every response while inspecting the curated goods still. ❛a gentleman never makes a deal empty handed. that's just poor manners. and I hear you're rather fond of the drink. might as give the pretty lady what she wants.❜

he teased before childishly groaning. of course, aiysha would make him work for the herbs in the worse way possible—by manual labor. wasn't even noon yet—damn it! ❛now, this is just unusual and cruel. you know I'm no good before the clock strikes twelve. but I suppose, I could grin and bear it. the fresh supply will be perfect for the new moon.❜ he then huffed, hands resting leisurely in the cotton lining of his cream colored slacks. gathering flora had never been any trouble for the cobriana heir, who was beyond knowledgeable on the subject. he was just lackadaisical in nature about it.

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha chuckled softly and shook her head. "He barely budged from his spot all night, except when we all finally slept. Heard him prowling through the house earlier this morning. I think he was checking for danger... or maybe looking to play with Salem." She giggled, remembering how the big black cat had playfully stopped the smaller one's incessant swatting by placing a paw on its head.

Observing Zyne as he lowered himself to Bast's eye level, Aiysha noted his sluggish movements for the morning, a clear sign of a busy full moon night for him. His complaint to Bast only confirmed her suspicion. "Busy night, Mr. Cobriana?"

Like an obedient child, Aiysha joined them by the fireplace. Mirroring Zyne, she rested her head gently against the jaguar's body and gave him a few back scratches in exchange for being used as a piece of furniture. "Live with you?" Another laugh escaped her. "Oh, you're quite the joker, Zyne." She turns her head to look at him. "What comes with that? Marriage & a family?"

exhaustion was the only sensation registered. zyne in desperate need of caffeine and sleep; choosing to go without due to the frequent concern felt over aiysha's wellbeing. thankfully, she appeared to be in one piece. standing in front of him as if it were another day, hand holding a steaming cup of tea as bast laid beside her—content and without a care, behaving like the divine creature he was. ❛good morning, darling. happy to receive such good news. from the looks of things, you wouldn't believe he was on guard dutty.❜ he teased, scratching behind the jaguar's ear as a sign of praise. loud yet gentle rumbles being zyne's reward and welcome upon the triumphant return.

❛I can see why. this place exudes an aura of quaint and cozy.❜ yawned zyne as he lowered himself to sit beside his familiar; the full weight of his frame pressed against bast, using the wild cat as a body pillow. much to the feline's annoyance as he released another rumble of noisy purring. ❛oh hush. unlike you, I haven't got much sleep.❜ he whined while beckoning aiysha to join him near the fire. zyne wistful as random notes of music played in his mindscape. smooth and calming as only jazz could be. ❛now imagine how much nicer this would be if you actually lived with us.❜ he teased, eyes closed in peaceful respite. full moons always did a number on him.

[estfenrirswood]

Aiysha looked up from where she was arranging a display of crystal pendulums, a knowing smile curving her lips as Zyne's familiar drawl filled the air of Thistle & Sage. His presence always added a spark of intrigue to the quiet mornings in the occult shop."Well, well, if it isn't my favorite witch," Aiysha replied with a playful glint in her eyes, her own voice carrying a melodic cadence that matched his drawl. She gestured towards the shelves lined with jars of dried herbs, her expression warm and welcoming despite the early hour.

As Zyne began to peruse the selection of dried herbs, Aiysha leaned against the counter, listening to his request with a thoughtful nod. "Thornapple, hmm? I believe we do have some in stock," she mused, her gaze flickering to a shelf behind her where a jar of thornapple was prominently displayed. "And lavender matchas on the house? You drive a hard bargain, but I think we can make that happen."

She leaned casually against the wooden counter, her gaze thoughtful as she considered his request for thornapple."Well, Zyne, you know how it goes," Aiysha replied with a playful glint in her eyes, her voice warm and teasing. "Luckily, it's a fresh batch that just came in yesterday," she starts, "but is actually stored in the back room. How about this—I'll give you the thornapple for free if you're willing to lend me a hand and fetch it yourself? Consider it a small adventure in exchange for your future lavender matchas on the house." She gestured towards the curtained doorway leading to the back room, a mischievous smile tugging at her lips. Aiysha enjoyed these playful interactions with Zyne, their banter a welcome distraction from the quiet mornings in the shop.

❛well, if it isn't my favorite texan;❜ taunts zyne in his native drawl. the cadence silky like the man himself while trekking inside the quaint occult shop. mornings aren't particularly his thing. not on his days off—at least. the handsome brunette preferred the nocturne hours where his creativity were at its peak. when all the world and its inhabitants seemed to be at their liviest and most productive also. nevertheless, he finds himself perusing shelves of dried herbs, searching for a few to perfect his homemade concoctions. zyne buzzing with adrenaline as the new moon approached. aware he'd be at his busiest since most people would search him out; desperate for his talents as a healer. ❛please tell me you have some thornapple. give me a discount and I'll make sure your next few lavender matchas are on the house.❜