#Chinese Chaste tree

[thebotanicalarcade]

n630_w1150 by Biodiversity Heritage Library Via Flickr: The new botanic garden London,J. Stockdale,1812. biodiversitylibrary.org/page/7395399

[konjaku]

西洋人参木[Seiyōninjinboku] Vitex agunus-castus

西洋[Seiyō] : The West

人参木[Ninjinboku] : Chinese chaste tree, V. cannabifolia

It is native from Europe to Western Asia and was introduced in the Meiji period(1868-1912).

The flowering season is from summer to autumn, and the flowers have a gentle fragrance. The fruits with a scent similar to pepper appear to be used as a spice. When the leaves are rubbed, also have a spicy scent.

It is a deciduous shrub and mostly planted, usually grows about two to six meters tall, but the larger ones are said to be about eight meters tall.

[thewritersaddictions]

Day Five: Eddie Munson + Scrooged

You're decorating the new trailer that Eddie got from the government. Christmas apparently wasn't his favorite holiday. He hadn't told you until you had seen it on his face. He walked through the door, face still covered in grease from the mechanic.

"Hey, baby!" You say excitedly as you wrap the garland around your neck. "Hey…what are you doing?" His voice drops from that high-pitched excitement that he's always got to something more profound. Your face falls immediately. "What do you mean? I'm putting Christmas up!" You say with excitement bubbling up in your voice.

You swing the garland you put around your neck off and drape it over the arch of the doorway. Miselote is tucked away in your hand to put into the garland strip after you're done putting it up.

"Babe, it's not even Thanksgiving yet," Eddie says blandly as he sits down to remove his work boots. "So, it's not like we're having family over anyways. We're heading to Steves." Eddie rolls his eyes, "That's not the point. I'm just saying that maybe we should wait." Eddie says as he slips his work boots off and sets them by the door.

"Can we just eat and watch a movie," Eddie asks. He looks tired, worn out from a day of working, so you hum. Dropping what you're doing and grabbing the Chinese food that Eddie had picked up after his work shift. You grab a few plates and bring them to the living room. The Christmas tree is half put up, and the lights are all over the floor to make it easier for you to put across the tree later on.

The silence isn't all-consuming, so you grab the TV remote and shift through movies. He's not paying attention, so when your eyes glance over the title 'Scrooged,' and the first name pops up, your eyes go wide with excitement, and a smile grows on your face.

The music starts, and the movie's theme hits Eddie in his face. "Of course, you picked a damn Christmas movie." Eddie groans as he shoves a mouthful of rice and spicy chicken.

"You know you're acting a little scroog like." You said stuffing rice between your chopsticks. "Am not!" He shrieks as he sets his bowl down on the table. "I think you are, not liking Christmas and being a grouchy." You shy, as you bring the chopsticks up to your mouth.

Before you can manage to get a single bite in you're being tackled and brought the cushions of the couch. "Eddie!" You shirek with excitement as your chopsticks, and food fall to the floor. "What?!" He laughs, "Get up off of me!" You giggle. "Not until you take back what you said about me!" He demands. You shake your head, "Nope no way." You answer defiently.

He rolls his eyes and presses a chaste kiss into your lips before smothering you with his body weight.

Completed on: 11/19/23

Posted on: 12/05/23

Stranger Things Master List // The Adults Master List // Christmas Stories Master List

[katiajewelbox]

Happy National Tree Week in the UK!

Can Black Friday be green? It can if you go on a shopping spree at @jurassic_plants ! The average tree absorbs around 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of atmospheric carbon per year, so planting many trees on your property can add up to an positive impact on reducing your carbon footprint in the long term.

Here is my haul from the Black Friday sale at Jurassic Plants, one of my favourite online plant shops in the UK. Late autumn is a great time to buy seedling trees since the deciduous species are less likely to be damaged in transport because they have already shed their leaves and are dormant. In addition, the trees can be planted in larger pots so they are ready to start growing as soon as they break dormancy in spring. In a plant biology context, dormancy is a temporary period of slowed growth which usually coincides with the winter season. Dormancy can also occur in plants living in environments with designated dry seasons or other times of the year that are generally unsuitable for growth. For most deciduous trees, the trigger is falling temperatures and shorter day lengths.

This year, I welcomed the following species to my ever-expanding family of trees: Castanea sativa - Sweet Chestnut Acer sterculiaceum - Himalayan, Pungent Maple Zelkova serrata - Japanese Zelkova Zanthoxylum piperitum - Japanese Pepper Tree Vitex agnus-castus - Chaste Tree Toona sinensis - Onion Tree, Chinese Cedar, Chinese Mahogany Sorbus domestica - True Service Tree, Sorb Tree Liquidambar styraciflua - Sweet Gum Tree Ginkgo biloba - Maidenhair Tree Cydonia oblonga - Common Quince Cornus mas - Cornelian Cherry Cercidiphyllum japonicum - Toffee Apple Tree, Katsura Tree Cephalotaxus harringtonia - Japanese Plum Yew Aesculus glabra - Ohio Buckeye Aesculus californica - Californian Chestnut Acer tataricum subsp. ginnala - Amur Maple Acer monspessulanum - Montpellier Maple Acer cissifolium - Ivy Leaved Maple

[the-monkey-ruler]

Would it be okay for you to talk about some figures who aren’t always the Jade Emperor and Queen Mother of the West daughters but sometimes are depicted as such in some form or another (like Yao Ji, who has one backstory where that’s the case but also another where she’s the reincarnation of a human princess, or Xihi, who was on that one family tree from a recent ask)

I mean I guess it would be okay for me to talk about Yaoji and Xihi, no one is stopping me. I see people taking it that Xihi could have been JE's sister or daughter, hard to pin down which one is more popular. But yeah it is said that JE and QM have COUNTLESS daughters so really there is no limit for them to have as many daughters as they want.

If you wanna know more about them then here is a good link to Yaoji and Xihe.

Yaoji is the goddess of Wushan in Chinese mythology. The daughter of the Emperor of Heaven, or the daughter of the Red Emperor ( Yan Emperor ). She died unmarried and was buried in the sun of Wushan Mountain. At the end of the Tang Dynasty, she was considered the twenty-third daughter of the Queen Mother of the West.

The Warring States Period and Chu Ci Fu master Song Yu's "Gaotang Fu " said that the "former king" Zeng Zhou dreamed of meeting the goddess, and the goddess said, "I will care for the descendants of the emperor and the vassals between Jiang and Han", "I am in the sun of Wushan, The obstacles of high hills are like morning clouds in the morning and rain in the evening. " Later Song Dynasty Yu advised King Xiang: The meeting between the king and the goddess can enlighten the ignorant, teach the way to govern the country, unblock the nine orifices, and prolong life. Later, in " Ode to the Goddess ", King Chu Xiang dreams of the goddess at night, but the goddess, who had "wonderful bone skills and responded to the king's appearance", is clean and self-possessed and rejects King Chu Xiang.

The goddess is a combination of the God of Yunmeng Wushan in Chu State and the emperor of Guguang Mountain in " The Classic of Mountains and Seas". The King of Chu actually went to worship God Gaoqi in order to pray to the clan goddess of Chu to protect the country's political clarity and personal physical and mental health. The image of the goddess is dignified and elegant, stunningly beautiful, deeply affectionate, chaste, pure, and incompatible. She is actually a symbol of the wise men. Song Yu used it to express her desire to be valued by the king but not to be disloyal to him. Wushan goddess is often used as a metaphor for beautiful women, and Wushan Yunyu, which is spread as erotic, has gradually become a symbol of love between men and women. People use "Except Wushan, it's not cloud" to refer to loyalty to love, which means that love belongs to no other than Yi, and love cannot be given to others.

When Dayu was controlling the floods, the goddess Yao Ji taught him the secret book of flood control and sent gods to help him. In the Three Gorges area, the goddess of Wushan destroyed the twelve evil dragons, sent divine crows to guide the sailing ships, sow clouds and rain for the world, and treated diseases and cultivated seeds for the people, Rishi mushroom, and other legends. Yao Ji brought benefits to the people, and over time, she turned into the goddess peak of the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.

The myth of Yao Ji has led to a series of literary works such as poems and songs in the past dynasties, forming a literary gallery of rhymes describing and chanting goddesses, and has a profound impact on the history of literature

According to ancient legends, Yao Ji is not Yun Hua Nu, the mother of Erlang Shen / Yang Jian. The rumor originated from online articles and TV series.

Xihe, the sun goddess and calendar maker in ancient Chinese mythology, is the earliest astronomer and calendar maker in China. The original form of Xihe comes from ancient mythology. In the changing times, she evolved from the original "Sun Mother" to the "Sun Royal". In the subsequent continuous evolution and development, Xihe also became a representative figure in solar mythology and astronomical historians, clearly assuming the functional carrier of culture, and focusing on its application in the cultural environment of ancient poetry.

Some Chinese scholars believe that Xihe and Changyi are the same person. "Xihe and Changxi also have the same name and the same story." Therefore, Xihe is also a goddess of the sun and moon. The name of China's first solar exploration science and technology experimental satellite "Xihe" means "imitating Xihe's control of the Tianma, aiming to herd the stars in the sky", symbolizing the origin and expansion of China's solar exploration.

[sarabherbs]

Effective Natural Methods for Removing Uterine Polyps

Uterine polyps are abnormal growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus, often linked to hormonal imbalances and affecting many women. These polyps can cause symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. While medical treatments are commonly recommended, natural methods for uterine polyp removal have gained interest among those seeking holistic or complementary approaches. This article explores various natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments that can support uterine health and potentially aid in the removal of uterine polyps.

Uteroelite Products like Uteroelite are designed to support uterine health and balance hormones. This supplement may assist in managing symptoms associated with uterine polyps and promote overall reproductive well-being.

Uterine polyps, also known as endometrial polyps, are small, benign growths that develop on the endometrial lining of the uterus. They can vary in size and number and may cause a range of symptoms. The exact cause of these polyps is not fully understood, but they are often associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly excess estrogen.

Symptoms of Uterine Polyps

Symptoms of uterine polyps can include:

Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding

Spotting between periods

Pelvic pain or discomfort

Infertility or difficulty conceiving

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic examination, ultrasound, or hysteroscopy to visualize the polyps and assess their size and location.

Natural Remedies for Uterine Polyp Removal

1. Dietary Adjustments

A balanced diet can influence hormonal levels and overall uterine health. Consider incorporating the following into your diet:

Anti-inflammatory Foods: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish) and antioxidants (such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts) can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

Cruciferous Vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts can aid in estrogen metabolism and may help balance hormone levels.

Whole Grains and Fiber: Foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, beans, and vegetables, can support hormonal balance and overall health.

2. Herbal Supplements

Certain herbs are believed to have properties that can support uterine health and potentially aid in polyp removal. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help reduce symptoms associated with uterine polyps.

Turmeric: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can support overall uterine health.

Chaste Tree (Vitex): This herb is often used to balance hormones and may help with conditions related to hormonal imbalances.

3. Essential Oils

Essential oils have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. For uterine health, consider:

Clary Sage Oil: Known for its potential to balance hormones, clary sage oil may support uterine health when used in aromatherapy or topical applications.

Lavender Oil: With its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, lavender oil may help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

4. Lifestyle Changes

Stress Management: Chronic stress can impact hormonal balance and overall health. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and support overall well-being.

Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, support hormone balance, and improve overall health.

Avoiding Endocrine Disruptors: Limit exposure to chemicals and substances that may disrupt hormonal balance, such as certain plastics, pesticides, and synthetic hormones.

5. Alternative Therapies

Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine practice may help balance hormones and improve overall uterine health. Consult a licensed acupuncturist for personalized treatment.

Homeopathy: Some practitioners use homeopathic remedies to support uterine health. Consult with a qualified homeopath for individualized recommendations.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While natural remedies can be beneficial, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your treatment plan. Regular monitoring and professional medical advice are crucial for managing uterine polyps and ensuring overall health.

BOTTOM LINE

While these natural methods can support uterine health and potentially reduce the size or impact of uterine polyps, it’s essential to approach them as complementary to conventional medical treatments. Products like Uteroelite can be a valuable part of this approach, aiding in the management of uterine health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making significant changes to your health routine. Integrating these natural methods can help promote overall well-being and potentially assist in managing uterine polyps effectively.

Natural methods for uterine polyp removal focus on supporting hormonal balance, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall uterine health. Dietary adjustments, herbal supplements, essential oils, and lifestyle changes can all play a role in managing and potentially removing uterine polyps. However, it is important to integrate these methods with professional medical advice to ensure comprehensive care.

For those seeking high-quality herbal supplements and natural products to support uterine health, SarabHerbs® offers a range of options. Their products are crafted with care to provide effective and natural solutions for women's health.

[understandingfertility]

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Fertility Support

In addition to conventional fertility treatments, many individuals explore alternative and complementary therapies to enhance their reproductive health. This guide explores various holistic approaches that can be integrated into a comprehensive fertility support plan.

1. Acupuncture:

Benefits: Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, and it may help improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, regulate hormones, and reduce stress.

Timing: Some individuals choose to incorporate acupuncture sessions before and during fertility treatments such as IVF.

2. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):

Herbal Medicine: TCM often includes the use of herbal remedies, which are believed to support overall health and balance the body, including reproductive function.

Dietary Recommendations: TCM practitioners may provide dietary advice tailored to support fertility.

3. Yoga:

Stress Reduction: Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

Mind-Body Connection: Practices like yoga can enhance the mind-body connection, supporting emotional well-being during the fertility journey.

4. Mindfulness Meditation:

Stress Reduction: Mindfulness meditation techniques focus on being present in the moment, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm.

Fertility-Specific Programs: Some mindfulness programs are designed specifically for individuals undergoing fertility treatments.

5. Massage Therapy:

Blood Flow Enhancement: Therapeutic massage may improve blood circulation to the pelvic region, potentially supporting reproductive organ function.

Stress Reduction: Massage can contribute to stress reduction and relaxation.

6. Nutrition and Dietary Changes:

Balanced Diet: A well-balanced and nutritious diet supports overall health, including reproductive function.

Supplements: Certain supplements, such as folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, are associated with improved fertility.

7. Chiropractic Care:

Spinal Alignment: Chiropractic adjustments aim to optimize spinal alignment, potentially influencing the nervous system and overall well-being.

Pelvic Health: Chiropractic care may address pelvic misalignments that could impact reproductive organs.

8. Aromatherapy:

Stress Reduction: Essential oils, when used in aromatherapy, may have calming effects and contribute to stress reduction.

Caution: Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential, especially if attempting aromatherapy during fertility treatments.

9. Herbal Supplements:

Popular Herbs: Some herbs, such as Vitex (Chaste Tree) and Maca root, are believed to have fertility-supporting properties.

Professional Guidance: Consultation with a healthcare provider or herbalist is crucial to ensure safety and appropriateness.

10. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

Stress Management: CBT focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns, helping individuals manage stress more effectively.

Fertility-Specific Programs: Fertility-focused CBT programs may address the unique emotional challenges associated with fertility treatment.

Conclusion:

Integrating alternative and complementary therapies into a fertility support plan is a personal choice that aligns with an individual's preferences and beliefs. At the best IVF center in Indore, our approach is to work collaboratively with individuals, offering support and guidance on a range of options to optimize reproductive health and enhance overall well-being. Before incorporating any alternative therapies, it's advisable to consult with healthcare professionals, ensuring that chosen approaches align with individual health needs and fertility goals.

[royalehealthgummies]

Royale Health PMS Gummies: A Sweet Solution for Menstrual Comfort

Menstrual discomfort is a natural part of a woman’s life, but it doesn’t have to be unbearable. As society progresses, so does our understanding of female health and well-being. Royale Health PMS Gummies, a breakthrough product in the supplement market, aims to provide a delicious and effective solution to alleviate menstrual symptoms. In this article, we will explore the benefits, ingredients, and scientific evidence behind Royale Health PMS Gummies and how they can potentially improve women’s quality of life during their monthly cycle.

Understanding PMS and its Challenges

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to a range of physical and emotional symptoms experienced by women a few days before their menstrual period. Common symptoms include bloating, mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and breast tenderness. While PMS affects every woman differently, it is estimated that approximately 3 out of 4 women experience some form of discomfort during their menstrual cycle.

Managing PMS can be challenging, as conventional treatments often involve pain relievers and hormonal medications, which may come with side effects and might not suit everyone. This has led many women to seek alternative and natural remedies that address their symptoms without the use of harsh chemicals.

Enter Royale Health PMS Gummies

Royale Health, a reputable wellness brand, has introduced PMS Gummies for women that are formulated to target and alleviate the discomfort associated with PMS. These gummies are designed to be both convenient and tasty, providing a discreet way to obtain relief from PMS symptoms while on the go.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Vitex (Chasteberry): Vitex is a herbal extract derived from the fruit of the chaste tree. It has been used for centuries to alleviate PMS symptoms by regulating hormones, specifically by promoting the balance of progesterone and estrogen levels. This can help reduce mood swings, breast tenderness, and bloating.

Dong Quai: Dong Quai, also known as “female ginseng,” is a traditional Chinese herb that has been used to support women’s health for generations. It contains compounds that may help reduce menstrual pain and cramps.

Evening Primrose Oil: This oil is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that plays a vital role in reducing inflammation and promoting hormonal balance. It may help with breast tenderness and irritability.

Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is crucial for the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which helps stabilize mood and reduce anxiety and depression. It can also assist in reducing water retention and bloating.

The Science Behind Royale Health PMS Gummies

While traditional medicine has long recognized the benefits of Vitex and Dong Quai for PMS relief, modern science has also begun to investigate their efficacy. Several studies have shown that Vitex may help alleviate PMS symptoms, with one study published in the Journal of Women’s Health & Gender-Based Medicine reporting that Vitex reduced symptoms in 93% of the participants.

Similarly, research on Dong Quai has demonstrated its potential to reduce menstrual pain. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that Dong Quai significantly reduced the severity of menstrual pain in the participants.

Conclusion

Royale Health PMS Gummies offer a compelling and natural alternative to traditional PMS treatments. By harnessing the power of herbal extracts and essential nutrients, these gummies aim to address the root causes of menstrual discomfort effectively. However, it is essential to remember that each individual may respond differently to supplements, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.

As women’s health and wellness continue to gain focus, products like Royale Health PMS Gummies are paving the way for more holistic and personalized approaches to managing PMS symptoms. With proper self-care and the support of innovative solutions, women can now experience greater comfort and well-being during their monthly cycles.

[judyconda]

LIKE A CHINESE LANTERN At the end of the thought was sadness. When temple lies broken a little white lotus comes up on the tranquil lake. A cute word enters the lone voice, stands down, collapses, retreats into silence. A chaste tree becomes a sage and tenderness of the ash turns into an elegy. The moon-face has frost on the eyes. Tears blaze the lips. Unbounded grief holds the space between sobs, a bodiless spark. Moons ago when sleep was a fragrant gift, the song never touched the earth. That dream sways like a Chinese lantern without enthusiasm. #folklore #folklorethursday #folklorevibes #poems #poem #poetic #poet #poetry #poems #poetryofinstagram #classicpoetry #fairytalepoetry #Spiritique #mindfulness #Spiritual #Spirituality #mystical #mystique #mystic #mysticisim #folk #folkspirits #folkmystic #fantasy #folkart #chinese #chinesepoetry #chinesenewyear #yearoftherabbit #chinesefolklore #chinesefolk https://www.instagram.com/p/Cnmb6rxyXRL/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[ijtsrd]

Various Formulation and Pharmacological Properties of Chinese Chaste Tree

by Kiran Wadatkar | Sakshi Waghmare | Amol G Jadhao | Prashant A Patil "Various Formulation and Pharmacological Properties of Chinese Chaste Tree"

Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-4 , June 2021,

URL: https://www.ijtsrd.compapers/ijtsrd42482.pdf

Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.compharmacy/other/42482/various-formulation-and-pharmacological-properties-of-chinese-chaste-tree/kiran-wadatkar

callforpapertechnology, technologyjournal

Indian societies have been using herbal medicine for many decades. Near about 80 of the population of the world use herbal medicine as a primary health care. Vitex negundo is a well known medicinal herb that is used in the Indian system of medicine. It is commonly known as Five Leaved Chaste Tree or Monk`s pepper. In India, it is known as punjgusht, Nirgundu, Sambhalu, or sephali. Vitex negundo Linn. Is credited with innumerable medicinal activities Like analgesic, anti inflammatory, anticonvulsant, Antioxidant, Bronchialrelaxant, Hepatoprotective, etc. Although all parts of this plant possesses great medicinal values, but especially its leaves contain numbers of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, glycosidic irridoids, Tannins, and terpenes. Because of the richness in phytochemicals, the plant is attributed to possessing several therapeutic uses such as an antimicrobial, anti inflammatory, astringent, bronchodilator, CNS depressant, detoxicant, Diuretic, emmenagogue, anticancer and hepatoprotective, etc. It is also used as insecticide and larvicidal. Leaf extract is employed as nervine Tonic, tranquilizer, and vermifuge. 

[writerthreads]

Light/Dark Academia and "Old Money" Name Ideas

By Writerthreads on Instagram

Masculine:

Alexander

Felix

Roma

Hugo

Lawrence

Pak Hei (柏熙)

Andrew

Victor

Leonard

Huxley

Jun Wei (俊偉）

Fitzgerald

Charles

Masaharu (雅治)

Andrew

Khalid

Hao Ran

Edward

Cameron

Jun Xi (俊熙)

Harrison

Darius

James

Ahmed

Henry

Theodore

Sulaiman

Chadwick

William

Feminine:

Alice

Elizabeth

Victoria

Josephine

Akari (丹梨)

Magaret

Florence

Sophia

Ai Lin (愛玲）

Kennedy

Eleanor

Henriette

Adesina

Anya

Eloise

Lorraine

Wing Yan (詠欣)

Eliza

Ingrid

Hermione

Rashida

Catherine

Ichika (一千花)

Esmeralda

Eugenie

Seraphina

Maureen

Daphne

Penelope

Adeline

Surnames:

Reyes: Kings

Stentham: At the river banks

Yamamoto: (one who lives at) the base of the mountain(s)/ (one from) Yamamoto District

Hargreave: someone who is the first to think of or make something

Renaud: advice, rule

Kumar: prince, son, boy, or chaste

Alarie: All-powerful

Burton: fortified enclosure

Fujimura: wisteria village

Alviar

Brentwood: A town in Essex, England/burnt wood

Toussaint: All saints

Ho Tung（何東）

Charmant: attractive

Hunton-Blather

Kapoor

Dupont: of the bridge

Anworth

Alma: nourishing

Blackburn: black brook

Ashton: from the ash tree (town)

Khatri: member of the warrior class

Harvey: iron, blazing

Laurent: the bright one, shining one

Leighton: leek town (lol)

Minamoto: source, origin

Allard: brave, noble

Seymour: From St. Maur

Note: The Chinese names included aren't really "old money" because we don't really associate names with money or position. The younger generation of Asian people usually have English names as well Chinese ones (instead of a romanised Chinese name). All Chinese surnames can also be "old money" because lots of people have the same surname.

Side-note: quite a lot of "old-money" kids have joint surnames from both parents, so you could try doing that for your characters

I used Google for a lot of names from cultures I'm not familiar with so I could be very wrong! Please correct me if I’m wrong!!!

QOTD: What’s your main character’s name and why did you choose that name?

AOTD: Mine is Fletcher Cheung, I chose Fletcher because it felt very powerful, and not a lot of girls (especially Chinese girls) have that name so it was memorable.

[queenofsantacarla]

hide (when the sun gets higher). chapter 1

A/N: at long last it's finally here. beta'd by my lovely besties @darling-disastrous and the tlg group chat.

Warnings: gender neutral reader, angst, discussion of missing peoples

Missing.

You supposed a great deal was missing from your life, when you truly considered it. Things both big and small had notable absences. You’d never had a grand feeling of purpose or life’s meaning, so you switched college majors like outfits and as a result only found yourself working crappy service jobs to pay the rent as months droned on monotonously. Working for minimum wage meant hobbies went to the wayside, along with your social life, keeping your circle of ‘friends’ - if you could call work and college acquaintances that - shamefully small. And romance? Needless to say, you weren’t exactly swept away by any of the potential suitors in your life. You’d had your fair share of disappointment, but you always assumed these were things every broke, mildly depressed, former gifted kid burnout dealt with. You assumed most people were missing these things.

Then you got the call from Lucy, and you were wishing that you could be “most people” again.

You had apparently been the Emersons’ last hope, the last good memory linking Michael to Phoenix despite how much time had passed. Mr. Emerson had taken everything he could from Lucy in the divorce and buzzed off to God-knows-where, not that Michael was ever going to go looking for him anyway. You stayed up all night, just in case, hoping and praying he came knocking on your door.

Nothing.

You called out of work, citing a "family emergency." The Emersons were your other family, after all, and how sleep-deprived you were was in the back of your mind as you drove up the California coast. You tried to appreciate the beauty, the waves crashing against the rocks, the sunsets on the horizon, but each sight made you wonder if Mike had sought comfort in them. Then you'd remember Lucy's hiccups as she held back sobs and Sam's dashed hope that you had seen his brother alive, and you'd have to pull over and cry, the tears too intense to safely see the road.

When you weren't considering worst-case-scenarios, you remembered the good times: Halloweens with coordinated costumes, playing pirates and secret agents in kindergarten, slumber parties where you stayed up all night gorging yourself on Lucy's baking and Michael telling Sam to leave the big kids alone, climbing that giant tree in your yard so you could be on top of the whole world.

That New Year's night freshman year…

It was hard to believe that was almost half a decade ago. If you thought really hard, you could still remember how the blanket felt under your legs, how good his jacket smelled and how warm it was around your shoulders against the chill in the winter air, and how shyly he had asked with hope in those sky-blue eyes if he could kiss you as the clock struck midnight.

It was a chaste kiss, being both of yours first, but it did confirm something you'd always known but had trouble admitting.

Without a doubt. Michael Emerson was the first person you had ever loved. And he hadn't been seen in weeks.

~

The "murder capital of the world" wasn't as impressive as it sounded, despite the title blazoned on the back of the billboard. It was little more than a kitschy beach town. You'd never been to the beach, but you weren't necessarily eager to visit this one. But as the sun began to dip on the horizon your protesting stomach demanded a stop before heading to the Emersons' home.

A hole-in-the-wall Chinese place on the boardwalk was bustling with customers, and happened to be the only food not deep fried multiple times and sweating grease. Unfortunately, the way to the entrance took you right past a fence covered end to end with missing persons' posters. Most of the people walked right by without pausing, not even a glimpse at the sea of faces. You walked by with your head hung in shame, every pair of eyes feeling like Michael's gaze boring into your head, demanding to know why you weren't out looking for him yet. A sudden gust of wind had you pulling your arms around yourself as it ripped an old posting off the fence, settling right at your feet.

It was ancient by the looks of it, the paper having long yellowed and wrinkled in the damp sea air. An impossibly young looking boy stared miserably at you, not even a smile on the memory’s features.

“Laddie” Thompson, it read, the lovingly given nickname apparently much more important than the boy’s true one. Who’s missing you, Laddie? you wondered as a wrench pulled at your heart. Are they still looking, or did they have to give up? Are you still out there, somewhere, waiting for someone to find you?

You had to blink away tears as you stepped inside the restaurant. Everyone seemed to be buzzing, barely able to stay in one place, as if they all had somewhere very important to be.

Despite how crowded and noisy it was, you felt more alone than you did driving down the deserted highways. Anyone of these people could have glimpsed Michael, even just for a second, but might never know the wonderful being behind his baby blues and boyish curls.

But you knew. And it ached like an aggravated old wound that never healed properly.

You were snapped back from the brink of another sobbing breakdown when you heard your order number finally called. The smell of dumplings and spicy sauce were calling your name as you reached out, only to see the bag snatched away before you could grab it.

“Hey!” you tried to shout to the gossiping pair escaping with your food, but the restaurant was so loud they were out the door before you could get your dinner back. If this were a normal night, it would’ve been a funny circumstance, something to laugh off, but your frayed nerves and empty stomach had you trembling all over again. Please, don’t let me have a breakdown in public, please please…

“...and whatever this babe had, add that on.”

A leather-clad hand landed on your shoulder as you heard a silky voice caress your ears. You turned to see a young punk with angelic features and curly mullet. Topaz brown eyes drew you in, sparkling from the smirk that seemed all too natural to the guy’s features.

"You don't have to-" you began to say. Suddenly your voice felt very loud and it was then you realized the whole dining room had gone quiet. Everyone stared at you- or rather, they stared at your generous new friend, who had yet to take his hand off your shoulder.

"Not a problem, angel," he winked at you. You felt yourself turn red, as if he was repeating your thoughts about him. “But that pretty blush is thanks enough.”

The heat of your face and the prickling feeling of jealous eyes on your skin made you look down. It wasn’t like you didn’t get flirted with back home, but it had been a while since it really affected you. Maybe it was your already heightened emotions, or the audience your paramour had amassed…

You swiped your takeout as soon as it touched the counter. “Thanks, but it really wasn’t necessary. It’s not like it was your fault.”

“Well…” he drawled out, playfully biting the leather knuckle of his glove with a devil-may-care smirk. “It might be my fault, in a way.”

“Oh?”

“They’re all trying to get out of here and catch the show,” he explained, grabbing a ridiculously large carton of boxes. “Aren’t you?”

“Uh, no, I-I just got into town. I’m…” you hesitated, not wanting to kill his good mood. “I’m visiting some old friends.”

He suddenly pouted, looking quite like a kicked puppy despite his badass exterior. "Aw, and here I was hoping I'd see you in the audience. I could always use a lovely volunteer."

Oh. Definitely wasn't just the setting that phased you. You were definitely enjoying his flirtations.

No, no, bad brain, you chastised yourself. You're just weak from the grief. Red flags all around.

"Well, if you need something to take that sad look in your eyes away…" he produced what looked like a theater ticket from his chaps. "Come see me."

The ticket was red and gold with fanciful black lettering, proclaiming it belonged to a VIP visitor for a one-night showing of...

"'Cirque de Praeteritus?'" You read aloud. Soft gasps sounded around you, clearly envious of what you'd been given. Whispers and hisses passed amongst the crowd, and it didn't take a genius to realize what they were about. "I can't accept this, it's very generous and I don't think I can-"

"Bring your friends, if you want," he said over his shoulder as he made his way out of the restaurant, clearly ignoring your words. But he paused and looked back at you with a wicked gleam in his eyes. "Just don't bring a date."

"But I- I don't-" you fumbled for some excuse, "I don't even know your name."

He laughed, throwing back his head and showing off his dazzling smile. "It's Marko, angel."

And with another wink, he was gone.

~

The boardwalk gleamed in your rearview mirror as you drove up the winding hills, all the while mentally bracing yourself for reuniting with the Emersons. They had been your second family your entire childhood, before…

You couldn't bring yourself back to that day. It was too horrible to remember, and it made guilt eat away at you like a parasite. The way Lucy had called you with such hope… you weren't even sure she knew the entire story of what happened.

It wouldn't surprise you if Michael never told her or Sam. He was always like that, carrying the heavy things on his own, refusing to let anyone else help. Even you… especially you.

Horses grazed the field surrounding the house, and various windchimes decorated the porch. It was peaceful, deceptively so, being so close to the chaos and bright lights of the boardwalk.

You stepped out of your car and shivered at the surprisingly cold sea air. In the slight night breeze the chimes of the house danced, but the sound was… strange. You could have sworn it was like someone laughing on the wind. Looking around, there was nothing around but the trees that surrounded the home… and the giant wooden spikes. Huh.

You took a step up on the porch, but a sudden strong gust put you off-balance. Your hair whipped around your head, blinding you for just a moment.

Angel...

The window shutters rattled as you got back on your feet, gripping the railing for dear life. Had you really just heard…?

Wind pushed at you again, and you swore the laughing was right at your ear.

Hey, angel!

You jerked around to see who was there and… nothing. Just leaves tumbling their way down the drive. Your heart drummed against your chest as the wind died.

Maybe I do need to do something fun… you thought to yourself.

The door crashed open with a bang and you held back a yelp as you faced an old man in a leather apron and a headlamp.

"Waitin' on an invitation?" He asked with a strange, suspicious scowl.

"Um… no- I-"

"Hey, Grandpa, who's-" a familiar voice called your name with a squeak, and a hurricane of brightly colored clothes ambushed you in a hug.

"Sammy?" You laughed, unable to help yourself from being sucked into his cheerful energy. "When'd you get so tall?"

Sam pulled back with a great big grin. "Knew you wouldn't even recognize me."

"How could I not, Sambo?" you joked, punching him lightly on the arm. "You're still the same old Sammy whose diapers I helped change."

"No you didn't!" He snorted as he pulled you inside. "I, um… see you met Grandpa."

The old Emerson's eyes still appraised you as he retreated into a room off the den, completely lit with red lights.

"Texas Chainsaw Massacre, much?" You whispered to Sam.

"That's what I said!"

The two of you dissolved into laughter as he dragged you towards the kitchen, where an amazing smell was emanating. "Wow, what's cooking-"

A soft voice said your name, like a blanket wrapping around you. You turned, melancholy sweeping the room. "Hi, Lucy."

She glided to you, embracing you tightly. She hadn't changed a bit, even the scent of her favorite perfume clinging to her was wonderfully familiar. You could feel her trembling just a bit, a slight sob caught in her throat.

"It's gonna be okay, Lucy," you whispered to her despite how hopelessness also nipped at your heels. "I promise, we'll be okay."

~

Dinner was delicious, making you completely forget about the Chinese food still sitting forgotten in your car. Catching up with Sammy, it was like no time had passed at all. It even brought a smile to Lucy's face, seeing the two of you catch up. You did notice that Grandpa Emerson, however, never came out from his strange red room again.

Though Sammy did explain the room was for taxidermy. The horror movie comparisons continued thusly.

Eventually you did address the elephant in the room as Lucy brought out ice cream for you all to dig into. She swore up and down that nothing strange had happened, nothing odd that Michael spoke of.

"He knows about… about my runaway days. Both of the boys know, even you know. He knew- knows he could always come to me with troubles like that…"

"He was… having troubles?"

Lucy paused, settling a shaky hand over her mouth. "I mean he was… a little off. I just assumed with the move, and the divorce, he needed time to adjust and I…" she stopped, as if realizing something important. "He told me I wouldn't understand. Oh, God… I should've pressed harder, I should have…"

You restlessly paced in the living room, wondering what Michael kept from Lucy. Your own guilt kept you from saying anything, unable to help from wondering if this was all your fault, and you wished you could tell Lucy that without being terrified she'd throw you out of the house. You would, after all.

I can't do this. You were going insane walking and worrying in circles, the walls were closing in. Maybe a distraction would be good.

You trekked up the stairs, knowing Sam would have some comics you could get lost in until you could sleep. Luckily the door was already slightly ajar.

"Hey, Sammy, could I-" you began as you stepped in, only to see a perfectly made bed in a spotless room. In the corner stood a set of weights, and a motorcycle care magazine sat on the nightstand.

Oh… this was Michael's room.

You didn't want to disturb what was clearly set up in expectation for him to return, but despite all the time that had passed between you everything about this space screamed the Michael you knew and… loved.

A leather jacket hung from the door. Since when did Mike wear leather jackets, you wondered. You couldn't help but run your fingers over it. It was still brand-new, barely worn at all. Without thinking about it too much, you slipped it from the hook and held it close. Tears sprung to your ears when you realized it carried his scent: motor oil and cologne.

Knees gave out and you sank to the floor, wrapping the jacket around yourself as you cried, cried until there was nothing else inside of you.

As your sobs finally subsided, you trembled from the emotional exhaustion. You slipped your hands in the pockets to pull the jacket, the closest thing you had to Mike's embrace, even closer.

And your hand brushed against something… paper. A note, maybe?

You quickly yanked it out, only to find a strangely familiar ticket.

One VIP guest, for Cirque de Praeteritus.

Maybe you could make the show tonight.

[delusional-angel]

dream come true ♥ yan!succubus x reader pt. 1

This short fantasy series is inspired by and dedicated to the lovely @iingezo on one of my favorite holidays—their birthday!

On the fringe of your most indulgent fantasies hides a seductive shade biding her time until she could wait no longer. The lines between fantasy and reality blur in just the right way when you wake up in a dream come true. Can you escape or will you give in to a woman too good to be true? Close your eyes and drift away. Let her take your hands and your heart.

Elegant fingers massaged your scalp with tender care. The scent of Chinese roses and tree peonies was in the air, and you could hear a low melodious voice. Your head rested on something soft and every now and then you would feel something akin to a feather brush against the tip of your nose. You could lay there forever, more relaxed than you had ever felt in your life, but you chanced a peak anyways. A long tendril of deep blue hair was the cause of the feather light touch. Navy tresses framed her heart shaped face, soft waves spilling over her shoulders. Thickly lashed eyes dark as obsidian gazed upon you as her glossy violet lips opened into a small ‘o’ of surprise. Pearl white teeth flashed for a moment, once sharp and alarming but then, normal and squared before you could react. The only things that nearly obscured your view of her enchanting visage was an ample chest clothed in an antique lace negligee reminiscent of something worn on a honeymoon. She was something out of your wildest dreams and you smiled slightly, sure that this was one.

“Wakey, wakey, sleeping beauty.” The true beauty crooned. Her fingers gently caressed your cheeks as she gazed down at you with something akin to adoration. How you deserved such a thing was lost on you, but you wouldn’t deny it if she was offering. You weren’t an idiot. Her voice was music to your ears and as much as you wouldn’t mind laying in her lap this was a dream, and you would surely be well rested in the morning. You rolled over and out of her lap, not noticing how her sharp nails as black as pitch lightly grazed your skin as if she was trying to pull you back in place. Sitting up, you could fully take in the striking stranger. She threw her nearly navy locks behind her shoulder, exposing the full contours of her bust and waist. With lightly toned arms and the legs of a dancer, she was both admirable and enviable.

Finding your words, you tried to take charge of this dream. “Wh-who are you?” You tilted your head as you gazed into her eyes meaningfully. They were like the depths of the ocean—something unfathomable and worthy of both fear and wonder. She smiled as she extended her legs in front of you and crossed one over the other in your lap. The short skirt of her negligee drifted upward as she did, but you didn’t take the chance to peek which she noticed this with mild disappointment. “I’m yours,” she extended the back of her hand towards you, “But if you must, you may call me Aurora. A pleasure.”

Feeling lighthearted in this dream, you took her hand in yours, “Y/n. The pleasure’s all mine.” You placed a chaste kiss on the back of it and she giggled coquettishly.

“You learn fast.”

You took it as a compliment and looked all around you. You both sat on a plush bed with comforters made of the finest threads and scattered with Chinese rose petals. It was a canopy that floated with no strings, and you realized light pink clouds drifted all around you. The skies were streaked in peach, lavender, and canary yellow casting a warm glow that backlit Aurora’s hair and gave her a halo. “Where are we?” You looked around incredulously. You had always imagined something like this but to be here and aware was a whole new thing. A bright smile nearly split your face in two and she gazed at you lovingly.

“We’re wherever I want us to be.”

She extended her arms and suddenly you both were in a cave with glowing stalactites with colors that flowed like those within a lava lamp. Green, yellow and orange fireflies lazily drifted around you both, and you could see a crystalline spring not too far off and surrounded by glowing moss and candles. Stalagmites of white and rose gold ensconced the bed you both now sat on, and you didn’t have much time to enjoy the scenery before you were somewhere else. You now drifted in an ornate boat across a vast emerald ocean. You could see islands of lush foliage and white sands in the distance, and cute sea creatures brushed up against your floating vessel wanting to be petted. Aurora sat across from you, your legs intertwined, as she held an exotic drink in one hand. When you caught her eye, she giggled again and splashed you with the other. “Seriously?” You splashed back and her giggle became a full laugh. Her white negligee was plastered to her skin more than ever as she tossed the drink away and splashed you with full force. You couldn’t let her get away with that and continued the assault. One thing led to another, and you both were clasping hands and throwing each other over the edge.

You landed in a grassy plain beneath a baby blue sky. The scent of tulips and sweet grasses tickled your senses. You looked over at her and she tossed onto her side, one head resting on open palm. As you chuckled, she continued to gaze at you lovingly, training her eyes to not miss a single detail.

You wiped some tears and finally turned to look at her, catching her intense gaze. “I don’t know if this is rude or not…”

Her teeth were sharpened and sparkling in the light. “Anything, darling.”

You couldn’t sugarcoat what you meant. This was a dream, sure, but this woman felt more real than anyone you had met in a long time. She was an enigma and you needed to know more.

“What are you...?”

[waitimcomingtoo]

Sexy

Pairing: Tom Holland x Reader

Synopsis: Tom has a problem when you get asked a sexist question

Masterlist

“For Robert, how has it felt for you as an actor to see what’s branched from that first Iron Man movie?”

You sat back in your chair and looked around the panel as Robert answered his question. He had been to a hundred of these panels throughout his career, but you were still getting used to them. An impressed smile tugged at your lips as he got the audience laughing with an otherwise well worded answer.

“For Tom, how has joining the MCU helped you to grow as an actor?” Tom was asked by the same journalist. He was seated next to you and sat up slightly when his name was called. He gave an answer that showed his appreciation for the opportunity to act along side these actors as well as what it meant to him to be a role model for kids who didn’t fit in. You squeezed his hand under the table, proud of him for answering the question like a professional. Finally, the journalist looked at you.

“And for Y/n, you’re new to the marvel universe and had to join a cast full of very established, attractive men. Did you have any intimate relationships with any of your male cast mates?”

The silence the settled in the room was painful. Robert let out a loud scoff and shook his head in disapproval while the rest of the cast looked at you knowingly. Tom Hiddleston shot you an apologetic smile as Chris Evans laughed to himself. You leaned forward to get closer to the microphone and looked at the journalist.

“I’m sorry?”

Chris laughed harder, gripping his left side the way he did as the audience let out an awkward laugh.

“Well, being around actors like Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth all day, surely you must’ve gone after one of them.” The journalist continued. Chris burrows his face in his hands, unable to stop laughing at how stupid the question was. You saw Toms jaw tighten beside you as he gave you a pointed look. You put your hand in his knee to let him know it was okay and he gave you a stiff nod.

“I know I’m not actually Iron Man but do you want me to blast her ass?” Robert leaned over to whisper in your ear. You laughed at his offer and gave him an appreciative smile.

“I got this.” You assured him before looked back at the journalist.

“I really want to thank you for asking me that. I feel like I’ve been waiting forever for someone to ask such an important question such as that one.” You sighed dramatically. “And you’re absolutely right. It was super hard to be around these actors everyday since they’re all just so sexy. How could I possibly pick, you know?” You laughed like it was obvious. The journalist opened her mouth to speak but you continued.

“Since I am so notorious for being an alluring, devious slut, I do make it a point to sleep with every single person, cast and crew, that I work with.” You said seriously and the cast laughed. “It’s easy when everyone’s on set and I can just pick and chose who to sleep with next, but it can get pretty difficult to track down all the editors and executives so I can sleep with them too. Of course, I always start with the main stars of the film and gradually work my way down the list. I even sleep with all the interviewers so hopefully I’ll be seeing you later in my hotel room.” You winked after her. “It’s really nice to be appreciated for my hard work so I again have to thank you for asking that question.”

You gave her a polite smile and she immediately sat down. A new kind of silence settled in the room as your answer hung in the air. No one said a word as you sat back in your chair and shrugged smugly. Tom looked down at his lap with a proud smile as he reached for your hand under the table.

“Can we take a moment to appreciate that answer?” Sebastian said into his microphone to break the silence. Anthony started a slow clap and Chris quickly joined. Robert grabbed your shoulders and shook you proudly as the room broke into applause. Your smiled shyly as the cast loudly whooped and cheered for you. You weren’t exactly quiet around them, but you certainly never said things like that. You preferred to sit back and watch them interact with a deep appreciation just to be a part of the cast. Shutting down the journalists sexist question officially solidified your place in the friend group.

“That’s a great answer. That’s how it’s done.” Chris Pratt said into his microphone as he looked at you. You waited for the applause to die down before speaking.

“Thank you.” You laughed. “To answer your question, yes I did have intimate relationships with my male cast mates. My female ones too, actually. Over the course of filming these movies, we’ve laughed together, eaten together, traveled together, celebrated birthdays together, even cried together. I consider all of those to be intimate things.”

You looked at your cast fondly as they looked back at you. A chorus of “I love you”‘s rang from the cast as the ones closest to you patted your back. Tom grabbed your face and planted a big kiss on your cheek, too proud to care about the cameras.

“I think that’s a great place to end the panel. Thank you to everyone who came. Let’s hear it one last time for the Marvel Cast.” The host of the panel spoke into his microphone. The audience applauded and you all began to get up from your seats. Tom let you walk in front of him, keeping his hand on the small of your back the whole way out.

~

“I have to give Harrison something but I’ll be right back.” Tom told you once you got backstage.

“Okay. I’ll be here.” You assured him. He leaned in to kiss you but you held up a hand.

“Tom!” You whispered as you looked around. “There are cameras everywhere. You can’t kiss me in public.”

“But you did so well out there.” He pouted. “I should be able to kiss my girlfriend no matter who’s around.”

“I know. But we agreed to keep our relationship a secret.” You quietly reminded him. He stared at you for a moment before huffing out a breath.

“Right. Fine. I’ll be right back.” He mumbled before leaving to find Harrison.

You sighed as you watched him leave, knowing it upset him to hide your relationship. You didn’t have a minute to think about what to do as people began to pile out of the panel, all commemorating you for your answer. Scarlett found you backstage and enveloped you in a hug.

“Hey, good job back there kid.” She said as she rubbed your back. “You handled that question like a pro.”

“Is it always like that? They get the cool questions and we get that?” You laughed it off, but you hoped she’d say no.

“Unfortunately, it is.” She nodded. “I’ve had to sit through interview after interview where they ask Chris how it feels to be a hero and they ask me how I fit into my body suit. I’m sorry you have to deal with it too.”

“It’s whatever. I mean, it’s not, but you know. Nothing we can do.” You shrugged. She gave you a look that told you she knew exactly what you were trying to say.

“I know. And between you and me, I’m a little offender she only asked if you slept with the male cast mates. What about me?” She scoffed, making you laugh heartily.

“She probably mistook you as a tree and didn’t see you.” You shrugged, recalling Scarletts infamous tweet.

“You’re so right. I’ll see you around, slut.” She squeezed your arm lovingly and walked away right as Tom came back.

“Did Scarlett just call you a slut?” He asked in confusion

“Yes. But I liked it.” You replied, only confusing Tom further. “Let’s go home.”

~

“Do you want Chinese for dinner?” You asked Tom once you were back at the hotel. His typically gentle features were hardened as he scrolled through his phone from the couch, not even looking up at you when you asked the question.

“Sure.” He mumbled.

“Or should we just order room service?” You asked as you glanced over the menu provided by the hotel.

“Okay.” He said, still not looking up. You eyed him curiously, knowing he wasn’t paying attention to anything you were saying.

“What I really want to eat is some danimals crush cups right out of Dylan Sprouse’s hands. Let me go see if he has some.” You tested him to see if he really wasn’t listening.

“Sounds good.” Tom grumbled. You walked over to him and pushed his phone down from his face with your finger.

“What’s up with you? You’re not listening to me.” You asked him. He finally looked up at you and sighed heavily.

“I’m sorry. I’m just a little distracted.” He set his phone down and pulled you into his lap, pressing a chaste kiss to your temple.

“What’s wrong?” You wondered as your soothingly brushed your fingers through his hair. Tom impatiently tapped his fingers on your leg as he thought about what to say. You could tell something was seriously bothering him from how flushed his face. His body was tense beneath you, slowly loosening up with your touch.

“I just can’t believe that reporter disrespected you like that.” He grumbled, keeping his eyes down. You furrowed your eyebrows at his statement, having forgotten about the situation yourself.

“That’s what’s been bothering you?” You laughed slightly. “I handled it, Tommy. The journalist is gonna be dealing with backlash from that question for years.”

Tom shrugged and rested his chin on your shoulder with a pout.

“It’s just not fair.” He stated. “You shouldn’t have to deal with these sexy questions-“

“Sexist questions.” You cut him off with a chuckle to correct him.

“You shouldn’t have to deal with these sexist questions all the time.” He repeated with a huff. He buried his face in the crook of your neck, reminding you of a timid child. You leaned your head on top of his and wrapped your arms around his shoulders.

“That’s just how it is, baby.” You shrugged, not sure what else to tell him. You wished it was different too, but it just wasn’t.

“It shouldn’t be.” He mumbled against your neck. You rubbed his back to let him know you understood.

“I know it shouldn’t be. But all we can do is educate the people who ask those questions and give them sassy responses. And you know how much I love being sassy.” You pulled away so you could smile at him. He stared at you for a moment before giving you a half smile back. You thought you had assuaged the situation until his pout returned.

“She didn’t even mention me.” He recalled. “You’re my girlfriend and she thought you slept with everyone but me.”

“In her defense, no one knows I’m your girlfriend.” You reminded him, unknowingly making him feel worse. His face faltered and he kept he slumped back on the couch.

“Do you think people would stop asking you things like that if they knew?” He wondered out loud after a beat of silence.

“Maybe. Or maybe I’d get asked even worse questions.” You laughed sadly. “There’s no way to tell.”

Tom seemed unsatisfied with your answer and let out a sigh. He sat up from his seat position and wrapped his arms firmly around your waist.

“It’s getting really hard for me to sit back me listen to people disrespect the women of this cast. Or the women of Hollywood in general. Especially you.” He stated. “I’m your boyfriend. I should be defending you.”

“I understand, baby. But I can defend myself.” You reminded him with a soft smile. “Don’t worry about me, Tommy. I can handle a few sexists.”

Tom reluctantly nodded and leaned back in the couch, pulling you with him so you were resting on his chest.

“It still bothers me.” He mumbled before kissing the top of your head.

“I know.” You tilted your chin up to look at him. “It bothers me too.”

“I should’ve said something.” He cursed himself as he shook his head in disdain. “I shouldn’t have just sat there.”

“It’s alright.” You assured him, pressing a kiss to his jaw.

“It’s not.” He said definitively. “And it won’t happen again.

The conversation you had resonated with Tom and sat in the back of his mind for the rest of the press tour. The incident at the panel did bring some good, which Tom was happy about, as journalists often sided with you when it was brought up. Since Tom was often put with you for interviews, he was able to closely monitor the questions you were being asked. You managed to get through the rest of the press tour without another sexist question, and Tom assumed you had actually ignited some change.

Until the final day.

“Tom, how would you like to see Peter Parker mature and grow in future MCU films?” Tom was asked during your last interview of the day. It was a simple question that he had gotten before, so he answered it simply. You smiled at him as he spoke, proud of all he had done so far and excited for what he’d do in the future. He finished his answer and the journalist smiled at him.

“I’d love to see that too.” He nodded at Tom. “So, Y/n, your suit is obviously very form fitting. I’m sure you’ve seen the comments so I have to ask, can you wear underwear under the suit?”

You blinked in surprise for a moment as you processed the question. You could hear Tom suck in a sharp breath, practically feeling the heat radiating off of him as anger pulsated through him.

It had happened again.

He was asked an intelligent question about his character and you were asked about your body.

“I’m sorry?” You raised an eyebrow, trying to give the journalist a chance to redeem himself.

“I’m asking since there are plenty of shots from behind but never any panty lines.” The journalist smirked at you in a way that made you deeply uncomfortable. “Fans wanted to know if you were wearing underwear under your suit or not.”

“That’s funny, I’ve never had a fan ask me that. Only you guys.” You kept a tight smile as you tried to keep the situation under control. You shot a look at Tom, who was giving the journalist a lethal stare. He was gripping the sides of his chair so tightly that his knuckles were white. You quickly reached over and took his hand in yours, not caring about the cameras and just wanting to comfort him.

“Well we-“

“She doesn’t want to answer that.” Tom abruptly cut you off as he shot daggers at the journalist. The journalist snickered and rolled his eyes a little as he looked at his list of questions

“All right, moving on.” He said, slightly bitter. “Tom, which Avenger, other than Tony, would you like Peter to train from?”

Tom looked at you, as if asking for your permission to continue. He was ready to walk out of the interview but only on your call. You gave him a reassuring smile that encouraged him to continue.

“I would say Captain America because I think he understands how it feels to be the little guy. Peter and Steve were both picked on before they got their powers, although Peter was still picked on after he got his powers. But neither Captain America or Spider-Man have guns or fire blasters, just fists and strength, so I think they would get along well.” Tom answered, looking at you the whole time instead of the interviewer. You squeezed his hand and gave him a gentle nod.

“That’s a good answer. Well done.” He commemorated Tom. “And Y/n, like we mentioned before, one of the most noticeable things about your character is her skintight suit. How did you train to fit into that?”

You and Tom exchanged knowing looks before you answered.

“Again with the suit.” You laughed awkwardly. “Are you trying to fit into one or something?”

“I just want to know how you fit into the suit.” He shrugged. “Trust me, I’ve studied pictures of you in it pretty closely. It looks like a second skin.”

“Well, they measured me, so it was gonna fit regardless. Because, you know, they made it my size.” You answered like it was obvious, because it was. Your straight cut answer didn’t satisfy the prying needs of the journalist.

“So no extra squats to make it look as good as possible?” He winked at you and Toms grip on your hand tightened.

“I didn’t exactly go into this film hoping my ass looked good, if that’s what you’re asking.” You said flatly. “I was more looking to be a powerful role model for girls to look up to.”

“But your ass looking good would just be a plus, right?” He laughed and looked at you as if you were supposed to laugh too.

“Um, no.” You squinted your eyes and tilted your head.

“I’m about to end this mans whole career.” Tom said under his breath. From the look on his face, you could tell he had bitten his tongue long enough.

The boy was about to burst.

“What was that, Tom?” The journalist asked, not having heard him.

“Stop being sexy!” Tom demanded. You looked right at the camera with the surprised pikachu face as the journalist laughed in confusion.

“What?” He asked.

“He means sexist.” You informed him.

“What is wrong with you? Is that question seriously on your sheet?” Tom asked angrily, letting go of your hand to point at the paper the journalist was holding.

“Tom, it’s okay.” You put your hand on his shoulder to relax him, but he was seeing red.

“No, I want to see it. I want to know if you’re dumb or just the company you work for.” Tom snatched the little blue sheet from the journalist and read it over. “Look at that, it’s just you.”

He held up the sheet and the questions you had been asked were in on it. You looked at the sheet and made another face at the camera.

“I��m not the first person to think she looks hot in her suit.” The journalist defended with his smirk still present, only angering Tom further.

“But you’re the first person to piss me off enough to the point where I’m about to walk out of this interview.” Tom snapped back and your jaw dropped. You looked at the camera and pointed at Tom before giving a thumbs up. You were almost enjoying it too much to interrupt, but you didn’t want him to get too interrupted.

“Tommy, relax.” You said as you soothingly rubbed his arm. “It’s okay. I get it all the time.”

“That’s exactly why I’m mad.” He told you. “I know you get this all the time. We get the deep, philosophical questions and the girls get the sexy questions.”

“Sexist questions.” You corrected with a smile.

“The girls get the sexist questions.” He fixed his mistake. “I’m so sick of listening to people disrespect my girlfriend all day long. The girls aren’t here for you to drool over during action sequences. Girls strong and smart and tough and deserved to be asked about more than what underwear they’re wearing. Let’s go.”

Tom got out of his seat, took your hand, and walked out of the room. He lead you all the way to your dressing room in silence and didn’t let go of your hand until the door was closed. You folded your arms and looked at him as he looked at the ground sheepishly. His anger was gone now and he just looked apologetic.

“I’m sorry, I know you said you could handle it but-“

You cut him off by throwing your arms around him and kissing him. He stumbled back a little but regained his footing and kissed you back.

“Don’t apologize.” You smiled and rubbed your nose against his once you pulled away. “I loved what you said.”

“I know you can take care of yourself.” He told you. “But I’m gonna take care of you too.”

You smiled in appreciation before kissing him again.

“That’s okay with me.”

~

Later that night, you found Tom on the hotel couch again and sat on his lap. He wrapped an arm around your waist to keep you in place as you wrapped an arm around his neck.

“Check out this article I just read.” You smiled innocently at him. “‘Tom Holland goes on feminist rant to defend girlfriend, Y/n L/n. Click here to watch.’ Sounds pretty interesting.” You said sarcastically and Tom grimaced. In the midst of his argument with the reporter, he let it slip that you were his girlfriend.

“Oh.” He pursed his lips. “I messed up pretty bad, huh?”

You laughed slightly and kissed his forehead.

“I don’t think my boyfriend defending women like it’s his day job is messing up. I think it’s pretty sweet.” You shrugged and brushed his hair out of his face.

“But I exposed our relationship.” He pouted apologetically. You took his chin between your fingers and kissed his pouted lips.

“A small price to pay for salvation.” You quoted Thanos, making Tom laugh. “Thanks for sticking up for me.”

“It doesn’t even matter. You’re still gonna get asked sexy questions.” He grumbled as he toyed with your fingers.

“Sexist questions.” You corrected yet again.

“You’re still gonna get asked sexist questions. One feminist rant want solve that.” He mocked the article and let out a sigh.

“Maybe not, but at least I know I have a whole defense team to back me up next time I get asked a sexy question.” You teased him and kissed his nose. “I love you, Tommy.”

“I love you more, baby doll.” He smiled sleepily and pulled you into a real kiss.

“Now that I think about it, what do you wear under your suit?” He wondered once he pulled away. You pretended to be shocked and gasped.

“Hey!” You playfully slapped his arm. “Stop being sexy.”

Tag List 🏷

@maybemona @foreverxholland @damnyoudameron @lavender-writer @captainmandeestudent17 @whatareyouhidingpeter @takenbyheartstrings @ultrunning @imyourliquor-youremypoison @theolwebshooter @andreasworlsboring101 @guksmyfav @waiting-to-be-myself @letsloveimagines @peterparkoure @a-villain-vying-for-attention @justcallmehitgirl @averyfosterthoughts @jackiehollanderr @tiny-friggin-human @celestial-skylines @mara-twins @iamaunicorn4704 @spideygirl2003​ @the-crazy-fanfictionist @maryjanee23 @spacebitch2 @geeksareunique @emmamarshmellow @jillanaholland @unbelievableholland @rebekkah4766 @flixndchill @sovereignparker @wendaiii @thisisthebiplace @spideydobrik @every-marveler-ever @undiadeestos @caelestii-e @eridanuswave @itscaminow @fiantomartell​ @solarxmoonchild @where-art-thau-romeo @canyouevencauseicant @illwritetomorrow @thehappygrungelife @saysomethingspiderman @parkerboop @smilexcaptainx @hes-amarillo @quaksonhehe @kelieah @silteplaittais-toi @kickingn-ames​ @purefluff @seasidecrowbar @lovelessdagger @love-sick-blues​ @electraheart-3174​ @lou-la-lou @unbelievableholland @yourtypicalhotmess @ohnothezombies​ @spideyanakin @horanxholland @thesuitelifeofafangirl​ @anapocalypseinmymind @gninwodacrie​ @quacksonfics​ @marshxx​ @heyheycharlatte​ @nooneinvitedfascistbarbie​

[writings-of-a-hufflepuff]

Prompt List #11 - The Language of Plants (1/?)

All Prompt Lists

So I have a language of flowers/plants book and I wanted to write some stories with them myself, but I figured they’d make good prompts for people in general or a good reference list. 

This is only a small section of the book, so there will probably be more prompt lists in future on this theme. Some of these will be easier to write with/use than others.

Feel free to use 1 meaning or multiple meanings to create a story or drawing etc.

 Feel free to tag me in it as well as with all my prompt lists. 

Fir Tree - Elevation; Friendship; Height; Honesty; Longevity; Manifestation; Perceptiveness; Progress; Remembrance; Resilience; Time

Chinese Bell Flower/Parlor Maple - Enlightenment; Meditation

Yellow Acacia - Chaste love; Concealed love; Elegance; Endurance of the soul; Friendship; Immortality; Platonic love; Purity; Resurrection; Secret love; Sensitiveness

Gum Acacia - Platonic love

Bear’s Breeches - Art; Artifice; Fine arts; Misery; The Arts

Maple Tree - Longevity; Love; Money

Fernleaf Yarrow - Good health

Arrowroot ☠ - Courage; Healing; Heartache; Love; Psychic Powers; War

Cupid’s Bower - Such worth is rare

English Monkshood ☠ - A deadly foe is near; A foe is near; Beware; Chivalry; Danger is near; Deceit; Fraternal love; Gallantry; Knight; Misanthropy; Poisonous words; Temperance; Treachery

Sweet Cane ☠ - Affection; Aflutter; Aphrodisiac; Delusion; Fitness; Lamentation; Love; Lust

Fairy Candle ☠ - Rough

Desert-Rose ☠ - Death; Delusion; Fictional; Illusion

Maidenhair Fern- Discretion; Secrecy; Secret bond of love

Blood Drops - Painful recollections; Recollection of life’s pleasure; Sad memories; Sorrowful recollections

Hollowroot - Weakness

Red Chestnut ☠ - Good luck charm

Common Horse Chestnut ☠ - Luxury

Dog’s Parsley ☠- Foolishness; Gullibility; Silliness; To burn

African Pepper - Judge

Lily of the Nile ☠ - Love; Love letters

Buku - Good Fragrance

American Agave ☠ - Security

Flossflower ☠ - Delay

Common agrimony - Gratitude; Thankfulness

Common Corn Cockle ☠ - Gentility

Bugleweed - Cheers the heart; Lovable

Common Hollyhock - Ambition; Ambition of a scholar; Fecundity; Fruitfulness; Liberality

Lady’s Mantel - Soft

Aloeroot ☠ - Complete; Powerful

Indian Walnut ☠- Enlightenment

Buttercup flower ☠ - Heavenly Chief

Flowering Onion - Strength; You’re elegant; You’re perfect; You’re perfect and elegant

Broadleaf - Lingering presence

Bulb Onion - Emotional Release; Multi-layered protection      

Shallot - Unrequited love

Garlic - Courage; Get well; Strength

Chives - Usefulness; Why are you crying?

Chinese Leek - Courage; Strength

Alder ☠ - Giving; Nurturing

Aloe Vera - Bitterness; Dejection; Grief; Integrity; Luck; Most effective healer; Religious superstition; Small talk; Sorrow; Superstition; Wisdom

Field Meadow Foxtail - Fun; Sly; Sport; Sporting

Lemon Beebrush - Attraction; Attracts the opposite sex; Love; Sexual attraction; Sexual attractiveness

Shell Ginger - Comforting; Diversity; Pleasant; Safe; Strength; Unlimited wealth; Warming; Wealth

Blue Ginger - Aromatic

Peruvian Lily ☠ - Powerful bond

Common Marshmallow - Dying for love; Unmarried

Sweet Alyssum - Worth beyond beauty

Maile - Fragrance of love

Amaranth - Endless love; Fidelity; Immortality; Never fading flower; Unwithering

Foxtail Amaranth - Desertion; Hopeless; Hopeless not heartless

Flower of Immortality/Floramon - In waiting; Love

Amaryllis ☠ - Artistic endeavours; Beautiful but timid; Innocence; Pastoral poetry; Pride; Radiant beauty; Scholastic achievement; Shy; Sparkling; Splendid beauty; Success won after a struggle; Timidity; True beauty; Writing

Bitterweed - Courage; Immortal; Love is reciprocated; Love returned; Mutual love; Your love is given back; Your love is reciprocated

Blue False Indigo ☠ - Formless; Shapeless; To immerse; Without form; Without shape

Corpse Flower - Decomposition

Butterfly Orchid - Domestic quiet; Gaiety

Cashew Apple Tree - Reward

Poor Man’s Weather Glass - Appointment; Assignation; Change; Faithlessness; Rendezvous

Pineapple - Chastity; Joy; Perfection; You are perfect

White Mustard Flower - Resurrection

Common Bugloss - Falsehood

Garden Anemone ☠ - Abandonment; Abiding love; Anticipation; Being Forsaken; Estrangement; Every gardener’s pride; Expectation; Fading youth; Healing; Health; Illness; Love; Refusal; sIckness; Sincere; Stauch love; Suffering and death; Withered hopes        

Crown Anemone ☠ - Forsaken; Immortal love; Sickness; Withered hopes

Thimbleweed ☠ - Abandonment; Desertion; Forsaken; Love; Sickness; Serenity

Soya - Good luck; Cheer

Norwegian Angelica - Inspiration; Inspire me; Symbol of good magic; Symbol of poetic inspiration

Summer Snapdragon - Presumption

Christmas Orchid ☠ - Atonement; Guidance; Hope; Idleness; Purity; Reconciliation; Royalty

Kangaroo Paw - Unusual

Chamomile - All who know you will love you; Attracts wealth; Energy in action; Energy in adversity; Energy in times of adversity; Ingenuity; Initiative; Love in adversity; Patience; Sleep; Sleepy; Wisdom

Buffalo Grass - Peace; Poor but happy; Spirituality

French Parsley - Serenity; Sincerity

Snapdragon - Creativity; Deception; Force of will; Gracious lady; Indiscretion; Never; Presumption

Flamingo Flower ☠ - Abundance; Adoration; Happiness; Hospitality; Love; Lusty love; Romance; sensuality; Sex; Sexuality

Celery - Banquet; Entertainment; Feast; Festivity; Lasting Pleasures; Merriment; Rejoicing; Useful Knowledge

Indian Hemp ☠ - Deceit; Falsehood; Inspiration

Baby Sunrose - A serenade

Agar ☠ - Spirit of life

Lion’s Herb ☠ - Courage; Deserted love; Desertion; Folly; Foolishness; Love; Strength; Wisdom

Star Pine ☠ - Various Leaved

Madrona - Only love; The only do I love; True love; You are the only one I love

Cane Apple - Esteem and love; Esteemed love

Cape Dandelion - Omen; Presage; Sign

Burdock - Falsehood; Importunity; Touch me not

Crowberry ☠ - Grape of the bear

Palm Tree - Fertility; Peace; Spiritual; The Tropics; Victory and success; Vacations; Victorious

Sandwort - Sand-loving

Silverweed - Naivete; Simplicity

Dragon Root - Ardor

Friar’s Cowl - Ardor; Deceit; Ferocity

Sea Pinks - Sympathy; Sympathy for the Fallen

Horseradish - Bitterness of enslavement

Southern Wormwood ☠ - Absence; Aphrodisiac; Bantering; Constancy; Fidelity; Jest; Jesting; Lustful bed partner; Pain; Seduction

Grand Wormwood ☠ - Absence; Adultery; Bitterness; Destruction; Do not be discouraged; Exile; Idolatry; Love; Poverty; Separation; Torment of love; Unpleasant  

Dragon Wort - Horror; Lasting Commitment; Lasting interest; Lasting involvement; Permanence; Shocking Occurrence; Terror

Mugwort ☠ - Awareness of our spiritual path; Dignity; Good luck; Happiness; Tranquillity

Wild Arum ☠ - Ardor; Zeal

Spanish Cane - Chanter; Clarification; Communication; Complaisance; Imprudence; Music; Musical; Pipes; Purpose; Rendezvous; Song; Traveling; Woodwind

Milkweed ☠ - Hope in Misery

Blood Flower ☠ - An attack against love for love; Call to duty; Difficult lessons learned; Leave me

Butterfly Weed ☠ - Heartache cure; Let me go; Love

Asparagus Fern ☠ - Fascination

Garden Asparagus ☠ - Fascination

Yellow Asphodel - Languor; Regret

Asphodel - For the dead; I will be faithful unto death; My regrets follow you to the grave; Regret; Regrets beyond the grave; Remembered beyond the tomb; The Underworld; Unending regret

Aster - Afterthought; Daintiness; Elegance; Faith; Farewell; Fidelity; Hope; I partake your sentiments; Light; Like a star; Love; Power; Symbol of love; Talisman of love; Variety; Valor; Wisdom

Astilbe/False Spirea - I’ll still be waiting

Chinese Astilbe - Dull; Without brightness

Astragalus ☠ - Your presence softens my pain

Wild Liquorice ☠ - I declare against you

Belladonna ☠ - Falsehood; Hush; Loneliness; Silence; Warning

Golden Alyssum -  Tranquility

Autumn Leaves - Melancholy

Oat - Music; Musical; The witching soul of music

Nimtree - Complete; Freedom; Imperishable; Life; Noble; Perfect; The cure; To life; To Live

Azalea ☠ - Fragile; Fragile passion; Fragility; Modest; Passion; Patient; Romance; Take care; Take care of yourself for me; Temperance; Temporary passion; Womanhood

[konjaku]

西洋人参木[Seiyōninjinboku] Vitex agunus-castus L.

西洋[Seiyō] : Western

人参[Ninjin] : Carrot

木[Boku] : Tree

Chaste tree. It is native from Southern Europe to Western Asia and was introduced in the Meiji period (1868-1912).

In fact, 人参木[Ninjinboku] means Chinese chaste tree (Vitex negundo).