#agate pair

[srlgemstone]

Collectible Agate Pair Lot

[overthemoonminerals]

Polished Agate from Xuanhua, China

[yoursgemstonesshop]

Country/Region Of Manufacture : INDIA Main Stone : AGATE Size : 19x9x6mm. Treatment : no Weight In Cts : 13.95Cts. Color : Green Shape : Freeform CABOCHON

[adsilverfashion]

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[lonniemachin]

JEWELRY RAFFLE FOR PALESTINIAN RELIEF

A local artisan was kind enough to provide me with 8 pieces of authentic crystal jewelry to offer for donation funds — as I am unsure how to go about doing an auction, I’ve decided to open a raffle supporting three different campaigns for Palestinian families looking to evacuate Gaza or in need of survival aid while in Gaza.

These families are:

Ahmed and Maram’s family (in Euro)

Mohammed Shamia’s family (in Swedish kroner)

Marah Atallah’s family (in USD)

All families are 100% legitimate — I have been in contact with Maram and Ahmed for months, who have provided me multiple pictures, videos, and recordings of their situation. They have been featured in a video by YouTuber Ro Ramdin and have been vetted by @/el-shab-hussein. I am also in consistent contact with their beneficiary through a group chat who updates us on the movement of all money.

Mohammed’s family has multiple pictures and videos of their situation on family member Ahmad’s Twitter/X account proving their legitimacy. I have personally communicated with Ahmad and his history online stretches back far before 10/7. His campaign has been SEVERELY stagnant, often going 20+ days before receiving a donation. He is trying to raise enough to evacuate his sister and her two children.

I personally connected Marah to the one managing her campaign, who is a friend of mine. Marah is also friends in-person with other verified families over on Twitter/X, where she posts pictures and videos of she and her family’s situation. They use all money raised to survive displacement in Gaza and to save up enough to register for evacuation when the time is right. Marah’s campaign has been shared by @/90-ghost.

Donate the amount equivalent to the value of the piece to any one of these campaigns, DM me proof of your donation, and tell me which piece you are interested in (send the number and letter listed next to the description of the piece). I will enter your name into a raffle for the piece you would like. One donation = one entry. At the end of the raffle, I will randomly choose one recipient per piece, contact said recipient for details, and mail the piece to you.

From left to right: A pair of Rutilated Quartz earrings valued $20 (E1), a pair of Kunzite earrings valued $18 (E2), and a pair of multi tourmaline earrings valued $20 (E3).

From left to right: A labradorite, aura quartz, clear aura crackle quartz, and sea sediment jasper bracelet valued $30 (B1), and a chrysocolla, morganite, phosphosiderite, and yellow opal bracelet valued $30 (B2).

From left to right: A clear quartz necklace valued $30 (N1), a red tiger’s eye necklace valued $30 (N2), and a flower agate, rose quartz, lepidolite, strawberry quartz, and clear quartz necklace valued $32 (N3).

If you can’t participate, that’s okay! Please share this post so that others may see and enter to win some beautiful jewelry for the most important cause — saving lives.

Raffle lasts until 09/09/2024. That’s one month to enter!

[niteshade925]

April 13, Xi'an, China, Shaanxi Archaeology Museum/陕西考古博物馆 (Part 2 - Shang and Zhou dynasty):

A 1:1 replica of a Warring States period (476 - 221 BC) horse chariot that was unearthed in an ancient tomb in Gansu province. The original artifact was made of lacquered wood, decorated with gold, silver, bronze, turquoise, and other semi-precious stones; it's basically the "Lamborghini" of its time. This replica was just sitting in the hallway in between exhibition halls, and it's very big:

Another one of my favorites, which is also one of the stars of the museum. These are called xizun/牺尊, which are animal-shaped bronze wine vessels (notice the lid on its back). This particular pair is "deer-shaped", but also has patterns on the sides that look like bird wings and paws that look like those of predators. Ugh they are so cute...🥺

A Western Zhou dynasty (1046 - 771 BC) "lunch box" made of bronze, called a luxu/录盨. It was found inside of a Western Han dynasty (202 BC - 8 AD) tomb, indicating that even Chinese people from 2000 years ago had an interest in collecting artifacts from earlier times

More bronze food/wine vessels from Shang dynasty (1600 - 1046 BC) and Zhou dynasty (1046 - 256 BC). Top one is called a gui/簋, bottom left is a gu/觚, and bottom right is a jue/爵. The tall-footed wine vessels can be used to warm up wine before drinking, by heating it with a small flame placed between the feet.

This is what a complete set of bronze vessels from Shang/Zhou dynasties looks like. This particular set, called "fanjin and thirteen vessels"/柉禁十三器 (translated as "Altar Set") is currently at the Met. This diagram below gives the name of each vessel:

Bronze chariot decorations with turquoise inlays. The bronze would have looked golden back then

A little bronze dragon. Cute.

Late Western Zhou dynasty pendant made of jade and agate beads called a yupei/玉佩, and from what I can gather, this one should be part of a necklace, which would be one heavy necklace indeed. I feel like a lighter modern replica might go well with sweaters though:

Left: necklaces, bracelets, and armlets from Spring and Autumn period (770 - 476 BC). Right: another jade and agate yupei from Spring and Autumn period, but this one was probably supposed to be hung from the waist.

This one is known as the Rui Gong ding/芮公鼎 or "Cauldron of Duke Rui", which is a bronze tripod ritual vessel (known as ding/鼎). It is inscribed with the text "内(芮)公乍(作)铸口宫宝鼎，万年子孙永宝用", which roughly translates as "Duke Rui cast this treasured ding, may his descendants use it for ten thousand years to come".

More bronze vessels. The top two are ding/鼎 vessels. Sidenote: notice the right one......does it look familiar? I'm pretty sure the rectangular ding is one of the inspirations for the design of TotK's temple of time. Also note the design patterns...I'm fairly certain these are the inspiration for TotK's aesthetics. TotK's Zonai script is also clearly inspired by Seal script/篆书 (I do want to make a post on this but my hands are pretty full atm)

Gold decorations on accessories:

An (incomplete?) bianzhong/编钟 (bronze bell set) and bianqing/编磬 set. The pentagonal stone chimes on the bottom are part of the bianqing.

A paper that studied the oldest face cream found in China (link to the article on Nature for those who have access).

Wadang/瓦当 (decorative roof edges) from Warring States period featuring various animals and mythical creatures, and their moulds:

[reddpenn]

I’m back from my rock show! I got some Cool Rocks!

First, the agates.

Another Turkish stick agate to join my collection! I can't get enough of this stuff. These form as pseudomorphs of selenite. A bunch of criss-crossing selenite crystals grow inside an empty pocket in the rock, and then the space around them fills in with agate. Eventually, the selenite crystals dissolve, and the hollows they leave behind are also filled with agate, preserving a record of their shapes!

Bonus! This pair has a nice green fluorescence.

Here is another Turkish agate. (Almost all of today's agates are from Turkey; Turkey produces some beautiful agate specimens.) This one has a really interesting pattern to its banding.

I actually picked this one out for its fluorescence, which is a stunning bright green.

Also from Turkey! Growing inside a super cool crust of volcanic rhyolite, this agate is called sagenite. Sagenite agate has a fibrous appearance because it is a pseudomorph of a fibrous zeolite mineral.

The last two from Turkey: a pretty red specimen with a sparkly central vug, and a weirdo with squiggles of yellow. What’s going on with that guy?

This one is from China! The red and orange agates from this locale are called "Fighting Blood" agate. I already have a Fighting Blood in my collection, but I thought this one was neat because its vug is full of amethyst!

Here are some things which are not agate!

This one is a lead mineral called plumbogummite! Specifically, these crystals are a pseudomorph of another lead mineral called pyromorphite. Over time, the lime green pyromorphite crystals were slowly replaced by the tealy plumbogummite. In a few of the broken crystals, you can still see a green pyromorphite core!

Hyalite opal! This rock has been on my bucket list, I am so excited. This form of opal is known for its water-clear, jelly-like globule formations. Though typically a colorless mineral, this specimen is tinted yellow due to iron staining. It’s also a mineral famous for its bright fluorescence… but this specimen’s glow is utterly unimpressive. :c I will be on the lookout for a more glowy specimen at future shows. Honestly, I’m just happy to finally own some at all!

This year, I also got some high-end mineral specimens! Take a look at these beauties.

Roselite! This rare, toxic mineral is full of arsenic. If I ate it I would probably die! Roselite’s deep red color comes from the cobalt in its chemical structure, and makes it highly sought after by collectors. This specimen is showing off a well defined lenticular crystal habit! Again, I cannot overstress how rare this stuff is. I spent… an inadvisable amount of money on it.

Oh, the best and most sparkly boy. This is wulfenite! I have wanted a piece in my collection for so long, and I’ve been waiting for just the right specimen to come along. It's a lead mineral, and it forms the coolest square, tabular crystals! This mineral is extremely brittle, which makes large, intact crystals of it very hard to find. But check out the huge tabular crystal on the right side of this specimen, it’s bigger than my thumbnail!!

And finally, I could not resist buying something silly.

This is Tully. He's a plush Tully Monster, which is my state fossil!

[the-mortuary-witch]

HERMES

WHO IS HE?

Hermes is a Greek god who is known as the messenger of the gods, the god of travelers, and the god of commerce. In Greek mythology, Hermes is a son of Zeus and the nymph Maia, and he is often depicted as a swift and clever god who is able to move quickly and silently. As the messenger of the gods, Hermes is responsible for transporting messages and news between the gods and mortals, and he is also known as the god of thieves and cunning. Hermes is often portrayed as a young and athletic figure, with curly hair and a mischievous or sly expression.

BASIC INFO:

Appearance: Hermes is often depicted as a graceful and athletic figure. He is typically portrayed as young and handsome, with curly hair and a mischievous or sly expression. He is often shown wearing a traveller's hat or cap and winged sandals, which enable him to move quickly and silently. He also often carries a caduceus, a staff entwined with two snakes, which is a symbol of his role as a messenger of the gods.

Personality: he is known for his quick wit, cleverness, and mischievous nature. He is often portrayed as a god of communication, travel, and commerce, and he is known for being able to move quickly and silently. Hermes is also known for his love of pranks and tricks, and he is often depicted as a god of thieves and cunning. Despite his playful side, Hermes is also considered to be a wise and understanding god, and he is often depicted as a god of wisdom and knowledge.

Symbols: caduceus, shepherds pipes, travellers hat, lyre, rooster, talaria, winged helmet, tortoise, and satchel or pouch Talaria, and petasos

God of: messenger of the Gods, heraldry, omens, poetry and fables, trade, travel, boundaries, thieves, education, psychopomp, wealth, luck, roadways, animal husbandry, sleep, language, and known as the divine trickster

Culture: Greek

Plants and trees: palm tree, crocus flower, Greek strawberry trees, hydrangeas, chrysanthemum, almond tree, iris, and marjoram

Crystals: alexandrit, amethyst, smoky quartz, hematite, agate, orange quartz, amber, citrine, peridot, quartz, malachite, ruby, bloodstone, and orange topaz

Animals: hummingbirds, tortoise, hare, cattle, hawk, goat, fish, ram, snake, and rooster

Incense: frankincense, myrrh, saffron, and dragon’s blood

Colours: gold, red, silver, copper, yellow, orange, grey, light blue, and green

Number: 4

Zodiac: Gemini

Tarot: Judgment, The Magician, The Fool, The Hierophant, The Hermit, The Star, and Suit of Swords

Planet: Mercury

Days: Wednesday, April Fools Day, 4th of every month, Hermea, Noumenia, Pompaia, Heliogenna, Anthesteria (maybe), Asklepia (maybe), Olympeia (maybe), Bendideia (maybe), Panathenaia (maybe), Eleusinia (maybe), Zeus Epoptes (maybe), Genesios (maybe), and Theseia (maybe)

Parents: Zeus and Maia

Siblings: N/A

Partners: Aphrodite, Brimo, Daeira, Peitho, Persephone, Penelopeia, and Palaestra

Children: Evander, Pan, Hermaphroditus, Abderus or Abderos, Autolycus, Eudoros, Angelia, Myrtilus, Palaestra, Aethalides (Argonaut), Arabius, Bounos or Bunus, Cephalus, Cydon, Pharis, Polybus, Prylis, and Saon or Samon

MISC:

• Winged sandals: according to Greek mythology, Hermes had a pair of winged sandals that he used to fly around the world.

• Caduceus: the caduceus is a staff with two snakes wrapped around it, and it is a symbol of Hermes and his role as a messenger.

• Thieves and tricksters: Hermes was often associated with thieves and tricksters, reflecting his role as a god of cunning and wit.

• Commerce and trade: he was also associated with commerce and trade, and was often invoked for success in business or financial endeavors.

• Messages and communication: Hermes was the god of messages and communication, and he was often invoked for help in sending or receiving important information.

• Travel and transportation: as a messenger and a god of travel, Hermes was often associated with the sea, rivers, and roads, and was invoked for protection and safe passage.

• Poetry and arts: Hermes was also associated with the arts, particularly music and writing, and was said to have created the first lyre, which he gave to Apollo.

• Magic and witchcraft: he was often associated with magic and witchcraft, and was believed to possess some magical powers himself.

FACTS ABOUT HERMES:

• One of the more popular myths of Hermes is the myth of him stealing Apollo’s cattle as a baby. Hermes was freshly born, escaped his crib and stole his half-brother’s herd of cattle. In order to avoid getting caught, Hermes plays some devious and clever tricks, though the tricks he plays depends on the myth-teller. At some point on his journey with the cattle he finds a tortoise whose shell he turns into the very first lyre. Inevitably he gets caught by Apollo but the sun god is so charmed by the lyre that he allows Hermes to keep the cattle or at least forgives him.

• Not only this myth, but others depict him as a trickster who enjoys a good prank.

• Hermes was known to be the patron god of Arcadia as he was born in Mount Cyllene in Arcadia according to Homer.

• Hermes is also a psychopomp, a traveler between the realms of the living and dead who aides souls headed to the Underworld.

• He was notably charming, even as a baby, considered a darling of the gods where many of the deities in the pantheon would teach or entertain young Hermes.

• Hermes was said to have invented wrestling and racing.

• He is often depicted as both young and old, as a mediator between god and man, and as a dream bringer. It’s possible that this ties into his involvement as an initiator for young adulthood.

• The Hermea were festivals held in honor of Hermes.

• Hermes’ staff or wand, the caduceus (staff with two snakes wound around it), is often mistaken for the Rod of Asclepius (staff with one snake wound around it).

• Inventor of fire: Hermes is credited with inventing fire, which he used to cook the stolen cattle.

• Protector of flocks: Hermes is also known to protect shepherds and their flocks, ensuring their safety and fertility.

• He likes rock music because of its high energy, energy drinks (especially red bull and original monster), elephants, yellow things, bergamot, dogwood, and vanilla.

HOW TO WORK WITH HERMES:

Create a dedicated space on your altar or in your home for Hermes, with objects associated with him, such as the caduceus, winged sandals, or a statue of the god. Make offerings to Hermes, such as incense, food, or small trinkets. Set aside time each day to connect with Hermes through meditation, prayer, or journaling, and ask for his guidance or assistance. Take up activities that are associated with Hermes, such as writing, traveling, or communicating.

PRAYER FOR HERMES:

"Great and wise Hermes, messenger of the gods, I call upon you to be with me now. Guide me on my journey, and fill me with your wisdom and wit. Help me to communicate clearly and effectively, and to approach each new challenge with confidence and ease.”


“Hail Lord Hermes, swift as the wind, cunning as a fox, and wise as the stars.
I open myself to your presence and await your guidance. So mote it be."

SIGNS THAT HERMES IS CALLING YOU:

• A strong desire to learn, especially in the areas of communication, travel, or creative expression.

• Increased synchronicities or occurrences of things that are related to Hermes, such as twinning (seeing identical numbers), winged sandals, the caduceus, or the symbol for Mercury.

• A feeling of being inspired or compelled to take action, particularly in a situation that requires quick thinking or communication.

• Recurrent dreams or visions involving Hermes or objects associated with him, such as winged sandals or the caduceus.

• Sudden onset of good luck or fortunate opportunities, especially in areas related to communication or travel.

• An increased sense of curiosity or playful energy, such as a desire to explore new places or learn new skills.

• A feeling of being guided or protected, as if a benevolent presence is watching over you.

• An increased sense of intuition or insight, as if Hermes is guiding your thinking or decision-making.

OFFERINGS:

• Rocks, specifically stacked rocks from the roadside.

• Koumara.

• Petasos (winged helmet).

• Talaria (winged sandals).

• Naturally shed feathers.

• Animal skins.

• Silver or golden objects.

• Food and drinks: white or red wine, olive oil, water, citrus fruit, honey, strawberries, milk, chocolate, wheat, lemons, almonds, cinnamon, coffee/energy drinks (especially red bull and original monster), candy, ramune, foreign foods, candies, or drinks, cheeses, shepherds pie, mutton, pork, beef, eggs, cookie dough ice-cream, blackberries, apricots, chamomile tea, beer, pineapple, bread, and milk mixed with honey.

• Statues/depictions of him.

• Herbs: cinnamon, feverfew, mint, dill, mustard, parsley, angelica, poppy seed, and coriander.

• Souvenirs/objects from trips.

• Incense: frankincense, myrrh, saffron, and dragon’s blood.

• Zodiac or astrology related items.

• Souvenirs from your trips.

• Coins and money (unique or foreign).

• Silver/yellow/orange/red candles.

• Stamps.

• Turtle shaped objects.

• Sunglasses.

• Depictions/imagery of cattle’s, turtles, rams, hawks, hares, rooster, guard dogs, and snakes.

• Dice.

• Maps.

• Flowers: crocus flower, hydrangeas, and chrysanthemum.

• Wands.

• Musical instruments.

• Rock or indie music.

• Foreign items.

DEVOTIONAL ACTS FOR HERMES:

• Write poetry.

• Play pranks, I won’t advocate for harsh pranks, personally, but he is known as a trickster so do with that what you will.

• Travel, he is the patron god of travellers.

• Watch a funny show or movie.

• Watch travel videos.

• Play or watch sports, he is known as a god of athletics and during his festival days people would play sports.

• Pray to him.

• Go to the gym or otherwise exercise, he has been cited as the patron deity of gyms.

• Learn astrology.

• Learn about agriculture and animal husbandry.

• Practice public speaking.

• Write His stories, poems, or jokes.

• Donate to homeless shelters.

• Honour the dead.

• Honour his children and his companions.

• Build a cairn, DO NOT STACK ROCKS IN NATURE as it disrupts the natural environment! However, feel free to build one on your porch or in your house with rocks you may already have.

• Watch a comedy special.

• Write letters and send them.

• Learning how to make drinks (wine, alcoholic mixed drinks, juices, etc).

• Traveling.

• Celebrate Hermea, I was unable to find a set date-range for these festivals. Some suggested around the beginning of August, possibly due to his conflation with the Irish god Lugh’s holiday Lughnasadh; others suggested May 15 due to the Roman god Mercury’s holiday Mercuralia. That said, he was known to be worshipped during other holidays in Greek tradition alongside other deities.

• Write stories.

• Exploring areas.

• Working.

• Making a money bowl.

• If able, learn a new language, if unable to do that listen to music in a foreign language or watch a movie or show in a foreign language.

• Learn about the Underworld and His role as a psychopomp.

• The story of Him stealing Apollon’s cattle always makes me laugh, so if you’re feeling down maybe read about that or watch a video about it.

• Eat food from a foreign country or watch cooking videos with recipes from foreign countries.

• Make a bucket list of places you’d like to travel (doesn’t necessarily have to be other countries. It can be within your own country or in your own state, or maybe there’s places in your own town/city you haven’t checked out yet that you’d like to go see).

• Learn some geography.

• Listen to or make a devotional playlist for Him.

• Play some board games or card games or dice games

• Learning how to send letters and packages.

• Stand up comedy and memes.

• Roller skating.

IS IT SAFE TO EAT OR DRINK AN OFFERING I GIVE TO HIM?

In some spiritual and religious traditions, it's considered appropriate to consume an offering that has been given to a deity or other spiritual entity. Some cultures believe that consuming an offering is a way to honor and show commitment to the deity, as well as to express gratitude for the deity's presence and blessings. In the case of consuming an offering to Hermes, some might believe that this is a way to deepen one's connection with the deity and to show respect and devotion. However, it's important to note that not all spiritual and religious traditions view the consumption of offerings in the same way.

[tamayakii]

Mare's Milk & Cider

warnings: drinking(reader has no specific age), story takes place in "second of his name" during Aegon's II celebrations, canon events basically. pairings: Otto Hightower x reader(can be seen as platonic/romantic), hotd x reader notes: thank you Aaliah, @genshinluvr, she helped me out with the ending!!! Let me know if you'd like to be in a tag list for this fic :) this fic is also paired up with this drawing i made!

“Then it lies with you, to make him see it.” Hobert advised, stepping closer to his younger brother, “Lord Hand” It did not go under Otto’s nose of what his brother was suggesting, reminding him of his own title.

His eyes never leave Hoberts as he considers his brothers' words, “and speaking of growing,” Otto follows Hoberts's moving gaze to the Princess, Angel of The Red Keep, adorned in a headdress with a long silk veil, dragons and stars embroidered in. Face decorated in Velaryon pearls, neck and fingers embellished with the finest green rubies, jades and agate the Hightowers could find.

“The fine lady y/n has grown to be a wondrous young woman, hasn’t she?” Hobert eyes do not hold simple admiration for a young girl grown, they hold more, and they contain something that Otto wants to snuff out with his bare hands.

“She is betrothed?” Hobert asks, looking back at his brother. “A fine woman like that cannot go un-married for long. With her and Rhaenrya combined, I can imagine the king's chambers are filled with betrothal letters.” Otto looks back at the Princess, watching as she plays with her new baby brother, covering her face and pulling her hands away quickly.

“A fine mother she will make as well, Aegon loves her.” The comment almost makes Otto snap, the thought of anyone being her husband or the father to her children makes a fire burst inside him. One Otto cannot explain reasonably, so he stifles it.

“She.. is not betrothed, Brother, I don’t think the King has any interest in marrying her off,” Otto answers, his lips tightening when his brother looks at him with a smirk. A near-knowing one that always made Otto furious since childhood.

“The king, or you?” Hobert quips, smirk widening when Otto’s face scrunches, nostrils flaring and wrinkles deepening. Hobert pats his shoulder as he begins to walk away, satisfied to get under his brother's skin.

No. Lady y/n shall not betrothed. Otto thinks, especially not to the likes of his brother. He watches as she laughs, throwing her head back and hand over her heart. Nothing, nothing could compare to her.

She steps away as the Lannister boy steps in, talking about the stepstones. She treats herself to the glorious spread on the table, picking out ham and grapes, plate barely complete- Otto steps in.

“Please, My Lady, have more” He helps fill her plate, and she shakes her head,

“You’re so sweet, Ser Otto, but i don’t think i can handle it. I am trying to watch my waist.” She responds, in a honey-sweet voice, one that cradles his entire being but her words make him roll his eyes.

“Treat yourself, My lady, we do not wish you to starve on such a good day. Now go ahead; eat before the long journey” Soon Viserys is at her side, like a dragon protecting its kin. All it takes is one look to make Otto step away,

“Come eat.” The king demands, “Fortify yourselves for the journey.” Otto watches her, keeping by her father’s side; Like a lamb to its mother. She looks over her shoulder and smiles at him--

☾

The trip to Kingswood is long and cold. Hand intertwined with Rhaenrya’s as you arrive, the loud crowd applauding for the king and new prince’s arrival but Rhaenrya makes no move to depart from the carriage.

“Rhaenrya?” Whispering as you scooch closer to the princess, “They await to see you” Still unmoving, all she does is blink. “Come.” standing up and pulling her along, “We will go together.” You step out of the carriage, with the princess alongside you.

“The Realms Delight herself; Princess Rhaenrya of Dragonstone! Accompanied by Princess y/n, Angel of The Red Keep!!” You squeeze her hand, looking at her. She looks at you with a somber smile, squeezing your hand back.

The roar of the crowd could blow you back, it will never not be jarring to be reminded of your station. A Princess. Not by blood but by word, and who would tell the king no? Who would dare say to King Viserys that his second daughter, whom his own late lady wife believed she had birthed her, cannot be a princess?

The celebrations are grand, the finest cakes and delights, the meat freshly hunted and prepared before your eyes. At your father's request, you stayed by his side, forcing you to leave Rhaenrya.

The glorious tent is filled with laughter and talk, and the smell of wine and cake fills your nose. Looking over to where the pregnant Queen Alicent sits, you realize she has been staring at you. You offer her a smile and she too offers one back.

Settling back into your chair, crossing your hands on your lap as you look above. Looking into the tiny details of the royal tent, the golden threads woven with black.

“Tired, my dragonling?” Viserys looks at you, reaching his free hand to yours- the other holding a goblet of wine. You reach over and hold his hand, As soon as he questions you, a yawn tries to force its way to your throat.

“The ride was tiring and too long for my tastes but--” you look to your father with a reassuring smile, “I shall be okay, After some food and rest, I'll be okay” he smiles back at you before taking another drink from his goblet.

Soon enough you’re offered your own goblet, filled with mare’s milk and honey. Time passes by slowly, you blink once and your father isn’t by your side anymore, It seems no one has noticed you dozed off. You promise yourself you won’t fall asleep but as you close your eyes and your goblet tips in your weak hand; the promise is broken.

“Is that all I am to you? A prize to be proffer about to the great houses?” Rhaenrya's voice makes you jump out of your short slumber, eyes wide like a deer as you begin to process the situation. As Viserys steps towards Rhaenrya, you push yourself out of your seat, setting your goblet down on the table beside you.

“You’re of age, Rhaenrya,” he points out, “and Jason Lannister is an excellent match,” he adds on. Oh. Oh no. Stepping towards the pair they seem not to notice you, there was no smooth way to stop this bickering. The two argue every day at least ever since Queen Aemma passed and especially since Viserys took Alicent to wife.

“He’s arrogant and self-serious” Rhaenrya argued, You wring your hands together anxiously. Watching the two fight as a bystander was like watching two lions fight, watching them as their family felt like two dragons fighting overhead. All that would follow would be the destruction of varying amounts that was left for you to pick up and fix, being both of their shoulders to lean on.

“Well, I thought you might have that in common” Even Lord Lyonel could feel the suffocating air around the two, taking a third step back. Sending you an apologetic look, the face Rhaenrya has is indescribable. Perhaps she wanted to scream at him, or even shocked that he would say such a thing, or maybe she had been at a loss for words.

Otto stalks closer from the sidelines, watching closely. This catches your eye, you try to breathe; knowing he is here comforts you. For nearly three years now, he has been your aid, your comfort and your closest friend- even despite the large age gap. You realize the tent has now fallen silent, and everyone listening in.

You quickly step to Otto’s side, seeking his silent comfort. You wish you could fix everything, and make everyone happy; even if it left your hands raw and bloody. If you could give your own heart for it; then you’d do it.

“Even I do not exist above tradition and duty, Rhaenrya!!” You cover your ears quickly, eyes wide with fear. Turning your body away from them, you began to feel violently aware of everyone's eyes on your family, some on you but mainly on the spectacle; The King and The Heir fighting on Aegon’s second name day.

When Viserys turns to Otto what he sees makes his flesh burn; You. So very close to Otto but turned away from him- Your father. It makes his blood boil, you should seek comfort from him. Not Ser Otto. You are his daughter. Not Otto’s.

Viserys soon leaves after the news of the white hart, but Otto stays, just for a moment. His gloved hand sitting on your shoulder, a reassuring hold. Your breath is shaky and your chest tight but you still manage to look at him through your eyelashes,

“Breathe, Princess.” He insists, and he maneuvers you towards your seat. Hand traversing to your lower back, “Sit and have some milk.” He gently puts your goblet back in your hand as you seat yourself. Feeble hands grip the handle, eyes drawn to the floor.

Otto tries to find the right words, he has never been a man of comfort. His hand hovers over your dropped head, unbeknownst to you. He sighs and takes his leave, passing his goblet to a maiden.

The day gets longer, Rhaenrya has run off with Criston following behind her. You knew it was against your set rules but you sank into your cups, after whispering to the help to fill your cups with cider but to not tell anyone else.

Your eyelids get heavy again, head tipping back. You love your family, you do. They took you in as a child, they gave you everything even despite the tight rules provided, sometimes… sometimes you wish that you took to a dragon and flew. Flew somewhere, to old Valryia or maybe to the free cities.

Then you’d be free.. but never truly free. Your love ties you down to your loved ones but that is the consequence of loving hard. Looking down into your cup, you swirl your drink. Taking a deep breath you look back to Alicent, she is already looking at you.

You wonder how long she has been staring at you and you tilt your head, she gestures for you to sit next to her. Another sigh leaves your mouth, slowly pushing yourself up.

“oh! princess, here allow me to help!” a maiden comes to your side, you wave her off as you give her the empty goblet. You keep your steps slow so as to not wobble, to others; you looked like you were gliding.

“My Queen.” you address as you sit beside her, Alicent quickly holds your hand closest to her. You are surrounded by the lady wives of many different men along with Larys Strong, the son of Lyonel Strong, the brother of Harwin “Breakbones” Strong.

“This is Viserys’s other daughter, Princess y/n” Remembering to keep your eyes open, you look around with a smile. “Dear y/n, how’s your day? you seem awfully tired.” Alicent asks with concern, one hand on her belly and other on your hand as she leans closer.

“I’m quite fine.” you mumble back, fighting your heavy lids as you nod. “The day is long… but soon we shall dine and turn in for the night.”

The conversations bore you, useless politics, rumors, marriages of lower houses. You wave over another servant with a sigh, already they know what you want. They deliver it, you try to hide the contents from Alicent but she notices.

“Cider?” She whispers tightly, holding the wrist that holds your goblet. Your nose flexes, “You know you cannot handle that.” She states, “a maiden your age shouldn’t even be holding a cup of cider.”

The rest of the ladies converse, and you are unbeknownst to another set of eyes on you. “Please. I will be fine.” you whisper, patting her hand and prying her tiny fingers off.

You take another big swig of your cider, almost finishing it all in one go. Looking over to Larys who has nearly burned holes into your head, nodding at him as a greeting.

“La-Larys.” you slur and he smiles at you, and you return it with a half one. The sudden need for fresh air sits in your lungs, eating you like a snake does a vole. Chugging your drink before shoving it in between the cushions of the seat, you stand up.

“I’m.. gonna go get some fresh air.” You announced, trying to make your way out of the once lovely group of women who now seem like a horde of gossiping vultures.

“Oh!” Lady Redwyne pops, “I heard that the hunters found a fat hog, they should be smoking it just now!”

The thought of watching them gut a pig to smoke makes your stomach turn, “thanks.. Lady Redwyne” You hurry out of the tent, the sun shining upon your skin. The pungent smell of burning meat and spices hits you, quickly turning away and scurrying to the back of the tent- where it was closer to the forest edge.

“ugh…. fuck.” You groan, kicking the dirt below you, the cider sticks to your insides like jam to bread. You ache to be in the comforts of the red keep, painting, or perhaps riding on horseback. You ache for a lot of things. Ache for the motherly hands of Aemma, to feel the embrace of someone you refuse to let yourself say. Perhaps you ache for the unmade.

You stand there, for minutes. Just staring into the bushes and trees, the arrival of the hunting party brings you back. Smoothing down the white lace on your dress, gulping down the fresh forest air; you return to the celebrations.

“Princess?” a feeble voice calls out, you look around and are surprised to see Larys.

“O-oh! Larys.. Larys, you surprised me.” You turn to the man hunched over his walking cane, leaning onto it. “How have you enjoyed my brother's second name day?” you ask, almost swallowing your tongue.

“it has been fine.. not that i can enjoy the most of it.” He moves his twisted foot, something that has dubbed him “The clubfoot” among gossipers. “But to be honest, i think i prefer talking with the maidens.” he adds, “they are far more gentler”

You nod along, eyes flickering over to the hunting party. Dogs held right by handlers, horses snorting and throwing their heads back as their riders dismount.

“But you..” he continues on “seem to be left to your own,” You still and wrong your hands together. Adjusting your stance as you feel yourself leaning, telling yourself to keep yourself together.

“Yes.. but it’s okay, I don't… don’t mind.” You reassure,

“I’m sure the cups of cider helped.” he smirks, knowing, your face flushed. How did he know? noticing your red face he chuckles,

“not to worry, Princess. I shall not tell anyone.” His eyes never leave yours, following your finicky gaze. It makes you uncomfortable, like a child being examined.

“I suppose it’s not-“

“You shall not tell anyone, what?”

you almost jump out of your skin, you turn so quickly that your head may have spun all around. Otto stands tall, chin up. Almost looking down upon Larys,

“Ser Otto” Larys addresses, if Larys was scared, he made no effort to show it. Your heart beats against your chest, “She was telling me a story; about Aegon.” You try to catch up to where Larys was, but he seemed to be a whole book ahead.

“ye… yes!” you stammer over words, “i uh, guess you could say i spoiled him despite Alicent request.” Otto's hard eyes soften when they land on you, it was a siren's song to your intoxicated state.

“The princess should be with the king.” Otto says, he offers you his arm and you reach for it.

“I was keeping the Princess company as she enjoyed the fresh air.” Larys explains, “She felt a bit queasy. I guess the mares' milk may have gone bad.” Otto looks down at your averted gaze, examining your state. Shuffling in your stance, flickering eyelids and subtle swaying.

“I see, I will look into that.” Otto puts his hand over yours, a grip to keep you near- not to comfort. “Come on, Princess.” He tries to walk you back, you step on your own foot as he does so.

“I think the princess would like to enjoy the fresh air longer.” Larys turns slowly, looking dead in Otto's eyes.

“The king has requested her presence” Otto's grip tightens, his nostrils flare. “but you can enjoy the air if you wish. I’m sure you won’t be bothered” Larys watches Otto lead you off into the tent, eyes never leaving you.

Entering the red tent filled with dozens of folk and your father right ahead, your sister is nowhere to be seen. You want to go home, you want to lie in your warm bed with Rhaenrya and wake up to braid each other's hair.

Soon you’re back in your chair, holding Viserys’ hand and Otto to your left. You stare off, taking a deep breath.

You would always be in the jaws of someone bigger, the dragons or the hounds. You’d bare your neck like a lamb, and hope for the dark delicate love.

Entwined in other people’s fate, all you can hope is that the fates bring you peace.

[chopinski-official]

Chopin’s Wardrobe — What I Wore

Today I would like to share with you all the manner in which I dressed. It is interesting to see how fashions have changed over the course of 200 years. Some might say style has slipped… Anyway! Here are some details on my wardrobe:

My Suit

I liked to wear sober colours: black, mauve, blue… and especially grey. For instance, I once asked Julian Fontana to have made for me a pair of dark grey winter trousers, without a belt, which were smooth and stretchy.

Grey trousers, 1840.

At a concert in Glasgow, a pupil recalled that I had worn a pale grey suit. Which included a frock-coat of identical tint and texture.

(Left) Frock coat, 1840. (Right) Frock coat and trousers, 1852.

Under my suit, I would wear a modest waistcoat in a fabric such as a black velvet with a tiny inconspicuous pattern, something very quiet and elegant.

(Left) Provençal waistcoat with mauve silk seedlings, 1860. (Centre) Waistcoat with floral pattern, 1838. (Right) Striped waistcoat, 1850-70.

My preferred shirts were ones made of cambric or batiste fabric. They had small mother-of-pearl buttons, two breast-pockets, and could be bought for 14 francs.

For my cravat, I would wear muted colours during the day. Usually, I would tie it in a bow. However, when performing in a formal setting, I would wear a broad, white silk cravat.

Winter Clothes

To keep warm in the winter months, I wore a thick redingote or over-frock coat, as can be seen in this daguerreotype of myself from 1849.

(Left) Wool coat, 1840. (Centre) Winter costume. Paul Gavarni, 1846. (Right) Frock coat. Wool, trimmed with silk velvet. 1820-1830.

At one point, my sickness rendered me so sensitive to the cold that I wore three flannels under my trousers.

Underpants, mid-nineteenth century.

Accessories

Because I had small feet, I often found shoes uncomfortable. I mourned the day, Moos, my shoemaker died. No one made my shoes like him.

1840s men’s shoes.

On my head, I would always have my hair curled, and, when outdoors, I would wear a top hat. I bought my hats from Dupont’s because he made them lightweight. They were originally made of beaver felt but, by my later life, they were made of silk plush.

(Left) Top hat made of beaver felt, 1830s. (Right) Top hat made of silk plush, 1850.

My outfit was only complete with white gloves. Without them one would not be in good taste. Kid gloves were common, but I also liked wearing Swedish (suede) gloves. Always in white.

Evening gloves. 1848.

A pocket handkerchief was also a necessity.

Finally, I had a miniature pocket watch. According to one concert-goer, it was “In shape no bigger than an agate stone, on the forefinger of an alderman.”

Where did I shop?

I bought my top hats from Dupont’s at No 8, rue de Montblanc (the previous name for rue de la Chaussée-d’Antin). I lived on this street myself, both at No 5 (1833-36) and No 38 (1836-38).

(Left) 9, rue de la Chaussée-d’Antin, the fabric shop across the street from the milliners, 1840s. (Right) Rue de la Chaussée-d’Antin, 1858-1878.

My shirts came from No 37 in the Palais Royal galleries, on the theatre side.

(Left) View of the Galerie d'Orléans in the Palais-Royal, 1838. (Right) Jardin du Palais Royal, 1840s.

The white suede gloves could be acquired from À la Corbeille de Fleurs, Houbigant’s shop at No 19, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

(Left) The corner of rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré, 1820-1840. (Right) Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 1814-1885.

There were also many shops along the Grands Boulevards. This is where I got my trousers made by my tailor, Dautremont.

(Left) Boulevard de la Madeleine, 1799. (Right) Boulevard des Capucines, 1830.

Boulevard des Italiens, 1840s (left), 1835 (right).

So…

As you can see, in spite my reputation for being picky and perhaps… prissy, with regard to fashion and furniture, I was far from what was called a dandy. My dress was never over-the-top and nor did I put on the airs that were so pertinent to dandyism. My desire, if anything, was to be refined and respectable. Although, perhaps my efforts to do so were occasionally cause for frenzy or distraction.

[srlgemstone]

Agate Pair

[yopossum]

NEVER LET ME GO

Main Masterlist - Ao3

Summary: Loving, reverent domestic smut with sweet, submissive Ezra. A oneshot.

Rating: E

Pairing: Ezra (Prospect) x Reader

•••••••••• detailed warnings below the cut!! ••••••••••

Warnings: SMUT; no plot that’s it just porn but with FEELINGS; sub!Ezra; established relationship; super duper in love; domestic fluff; comfort; gratuitous pet names; praise kink; body worship; body hair; grinding; breast and nipple play; teasing/edging if you squint; light bondage; riding; PIV; no condom (there’s come y’all); religious language and imagery as literary device; Ezra the human thesaurus; prose gettin purple; making grown men whine and cry; reader is not gendered, has breasts and a vulva/vagina, is described as having puffed nipples and dimpled thighs, can straddle Ezra, but no coloring, size, appearance, age, or ability is otherwise noted; Ezra is an amputee and healed and we love it (no gore or trauma or background re: his arm); but I did write this because I was watching Prospect without actually watching and was inspired by *~*those sounds*~* out of context tho; Beatrice is not reader’s name, just a nerdy Dante reference; I stole this title from Florence Welch; old person on tumblr; is this spacing wack?; not a beta in sight; 18+ only no minors

Listen: Florence + The Machine’s “Never Let Me Go”

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Panting, Ezra blinked hard, stinging brow sweat running out his deep, hooded eyes and into the creases at their corners.

“My treasure,” he rasped, “please.” He clenched his teeth and swallowed thickly, Adam’s apple sliding up and down the length of his taut, tanned neck. He lay splayed on his back on the mattress while you straddled his narrow waist, his wrist lightly restrained with a strip of fabric knotted to the head of the bed. His eyes remained closed tight, delicate black lashes fanned over high, flushed cheekbones.

“Patience, darling boy. Be good for me.” You poked punctuation with the firm point of your tongue deep into the dip at the base of his throat, tasting the shallow pool of salted desperation that collected there as Ezra writhed underneath you. He was so rarely speechless, but at the mercy of your ministrations, the typical thesaurus of his mind was muted by melodic, crackling whimpers.

You flattened your warm wet tongue to the golden throb of Ezra’s neck, laved it from the right slice of his collarbone up along his jugular to the silky soft patch of skin behind his ear, swirling gently around the faded inked green flower there before sucking his lobe into your hot mouth and biting gently. Ezra keened, his hips bucking involuntarily as his spine curled in on itself.

Sitting back and upright astride his firm body, you ground down subtle and slow against his straining length. “I thought you were going to behave, beautiful,” you smirked down at him. A shattered wail tumbled from his plush parted lips and landed heavy in your cunt, the thrum radiating out from your core like ripples in a pond. You rolled your hips languidly again, tipping your pelvis forward and dragging through the thatch of coarse dark curls at his root. The delicious friction made your clit pulse greedily and you tilted your chin back and breathed a sigh like heady birdsong.

Ezra’s wavering tolerance cracked with a cry. He yanked at the smooth silk tie that looped his wrist, loosed it enough to slip from, allowing him to wrap his strong arm around your waist and yank you forward, your slick sex sliding a sloppy kiss against the soft swell of his lower belly. Your breasts fell pendent over his heaving chest, and Ezra’s eyes on them were a bottomless sea, fathomless agate brown and shimmering like moonlight with unshed tears. He looked up reverently, eyebrows furrowed, rosebud mouth falling open pleadingly.

“My divinity, my light, my Beatrice…” he croaked in a ragged whisper, his voice rough around the purple prose. Ezra’s rhythmic breaths were a fervent prayer as he supplicated to the heaven of your chest. “Relieve me of my agony, this exquisite anguish, I beg of you.”

You leaned forward further, pressing your lips to his crown like a blessing, pulling back only slightly to brush a wet white-blonde curl from his clammy skin before returning your forehead to his and closing your eyes. Ezra fought to stay still, but his cock throbbed furiously where it was squeezed between your bodies. Against his will, a silky drop of precome leaked from the fat tip of him, finding home in the slit of his belly button, and the whole of his strong, solid body quivered with need.

You looked down again, and oh. Ezra’s pupils were blown wide, his gaze impossibly dark and rich, dripping with the rawest, rarest awe. His pink tongue darted out and he gulped. “Please.”

You nodded, and before you could find the words to grant him verbal permission, Ezra lurched forward and took one puffed nipple into the soft heat of his hungry mouth. He teased it between his teeth, scraping gently, before swirling his tongue around the peak and suckling. Your breath hitched and Ezra moaned around you, sucking once more before releasing you.

“I do swear,” and he planted a kiss on your breastbone, interrupting himself. “There is,” he murmured, nosing a second kiss into the heavy underside of one breast, “no known embrocation…” He repeated the action on the other breast. “No salve,” as he pressed his teeth to the upper swell of the left, “nor balm...” A testing bite on the right made you suck in sharply. “That can soothe the weariness in my soul,” he ruminated. He traced a wide circle with the tip of his nose around your dark areola before opening his mouth over it, his tongue cradling the heft of you, and breathed his words into your skin. “None that can compare to the solace I find when I sink into your perfect bosom.” He closed his lips around your nipple and sucked again, eyes fluttering in sated delight, luxuriating in the feel of your swollen bud on his tongue. Your cunt clenched, petal-soft folds hugging along the underside of his shaft, and you hissed in tandem at the sensation.

“Now, Ezra,” you tutted, chastising reluctantly. Taking his face between your hands, you pulled him off your breast with a pop, watching his expression transform to a needy pout as you encouraged his face up to meet yours. “I didn’t say I was finished with you yet, my star. Don’t be hasty.” Your palms held firm along his jaw, fisting into the ebony curls at the nape of his neck, while your thumbs rubbed through his scratchy stubble, and he simpered apologetically.

Your playfully admonishing look softened, and you smiled down at him. “There he is. You’re so good, dove,” you hummed, pressing your lips tenderly to the heart-shaped bare patch near the corner of his mouth. Ezra closed his eyes, preening. You peppered his perfect face with small attentions as you praised him. “So sweet for me.” A buss to his boyish dimple. “So brave,” to the thin white scar on his cheekbone. “So clever and charming,” to the laugh lines feathering around his eyes. “So gentle and kind,” to the twin creases between his eyebrows. “And so, so lovely,” to the strong bridge of his classical nose. “My angel,” to the cherubic cleft of his plump lower lip. “My Ezra.” You slotted your mouth with his and kissed him slowly, savoring his delicate sigh before knotting your fingers in his tousled waves and bringing him ever closer.

Ezra’s hand moved from its place around your waist to your head, his broad palm cradling the side of your face while he ran a wide thumb along your cheekbone as he deepened the kiss, licking indulgently into you. The pads of his fingers rubbed rough circles on your neck, twisting your hair into rings around his thick knuckles.

Open mouths slid against each other, growing heated and harder, spit-slick and lewd, lips swelled with bruising force of each kiss and bite. Ezra shifted his weight to sit more upright, scooting back slightly and straightening his spine against the headboard, sliding his painfully hard cock back down your slit and nudging at your dripping entrance, forcing a low moan from the depths of your throat. “Rhapsody,” he murmured, breathless, and he crashed another desperate kiss to your face.

“You’ve done so well, precious one,” you cooed into him, unraveling his hand from your hair and placing it at the flare of your waist. “So good for me.” You gripped Ezra’s shoulders for balance and recentered yourself on his lap, kneeling, caging him in between the dimpled plush of your thighs and rocking your dripping center firmly into the cradle of his hips. His abdominals seized and he gritted his teeth, nostrils flaring as he tried to calm himself for you. Letting your hand slide lovingly down his right arm, you trailed a finger over the blunt end of his residual limb, delicately tracing along the lines of the scars there before lifting his arm alongside your face and nuzzling into him affectionately.

“You deserve every good thing, Ezra. This world and every other.” You kissed him softly at the end of his arm and continued up along the cut of his bicep, over the round of his deltoid, along the slope of his shoulder, and rested your open mouth at his pounding pulse point. “If I could, I’d give you everything.” Pressing your body flush against his torso, you began circling your hips down against him. His body was shaking with restraint, perspiration beading at his temples when you lifted your lips to the shell of his ear. “I’d give you everything, but all I have to give you is myself, and so I will. I am yours, my love.”

Ezra rutted up into you with a shivering howl and you smothered it at the source with an achingly passionate kiss. All control abandoned, he grabbed the meat of your hip and dug his fingers in deep, canting his hips to slip himself frantically through your wetness. You snaked a hand between your bodies to swirl the pearl of your clit before dipping two fingers deep inside yourself. You plunged them in and out, curling them against that soft spongy coral of your wall until they were coated in you, and in a single movement withdrew them and wrapped a tight fist around Ezra’s thick cock, spreading your slick over the feverish velvet skin. Angling your fist to position him properly, you pressed your nose into his and looked directly into his glimmering lust-glazed eyes, punctuating each word with a long firm stroke. “I. Am. Yours.”

Ezra pushed inside your heat with a staggering thrust and a wheeze. You slammed down onto him, crying out at the burning stretch, your hands suddenly scrambling for purchase again on his broad shoulders. He buried his face into the well of your collar and growled at the blistering vice of your pussy, straining to hold back to allow you a few seconds to adjust to his size. You met his lips again and let him slide his tongue lazily into your mouth as you slowly lifted yourself off his shaft until only the thick head remained in your channel. You dropped back down onto his cock with a shivering exhale, taking him all the way to the hilt.

Ezra worked into a smooth but brutal rhythm and you met his thrusts in earnest, your thighs burning as you rode him while he slammed up over and over again into the deepest part of you. You could feel you both rapidly unraveling as he held you tight, pressing you down into his pelvic bone and grinding against your sensitive clit while you gasped into each other.

Ezra planted his feet flat on the mattress for leverage and punched up into you urgently, pace starting to falter as his breaths turned jagged and shallow. “I have been,” he huffed sharply, “an aimless and indulgent vagabond.” He choked down air as if drowning. “A derelict wastrel, a wretched… grunt… ne’er-… grunt… do-well.” Ezra ranted, half-conscious in his carnal frenzy like a shark in blood, dragging his mouth and tongue over your body wherever he could reach as cunt-drunk ramblings poured from him.

You felt yourself careening toward your release, spots clouding the edges of your vision, and attempted to ground yourself to Ezra, pushing your face into the crook of his neck and breathing him in, salty and sun-drenched and woody, the tang of sweat baked by his radiant heat, creating something resinous and animalic and ambrette and intoxicating.

“You are an oasis. A… font… of renewal,” he gritted against you, thrusts sloppy as you groaned and wound against him, ready to hurl yourself from your peak. “In you,” he whined, pained, “I am a man remade. Let this poor wretch, oh, fuck, be cleansed, fuck, in your waters.” Ezra nearly wept now. “Please, redeem me. Drag me under.”

You fell apart around him, coming hard with a loud shout of his name, the roof of your mouth tingling and vision blurring with each crashing wave of your orgasm, scrambling to hold on as Ezra frantically chased his own salvation. You chanted your devotions in precious promises against his throat. “I’ve got you. I’ve got you. I’m yours, my beautiful boy, I’m yours.”

Ezra sobbed as he came, body wracked with convulsions as he spilled violently into you, rope after impossible rope of white hot spend a libertine absolution. He leaned back, pulling you forward with him, and continued to pump weakly and intermittently, mewling at the oversensitivity as his come began to seep out around his softening cock, dripping down where your bodies joined, into the muscled cleft of his ass and soaking into the sheets underneath.

When his movements finally stilled, he let his arms fall back and open over the mattress with a quavering sigh, like he meant to make a snow angel in the soiled linens, a few errant tears slipping out into the furrows at the corners of his eyes. You crawled up his chest and tucked yourself tight into his side, wrapping his short strong arm around you and nestling into the sweat-matted hair at his armpit, blissfully ignoring the heavy blanket of still, sticky air that hung in the room. You rested a palm on his smooth, freckled chest, and he covered it entirely with his own massive hand.

Ezra was never silent for long. After a moment, he took your hand from his chest and brought your knuckles to his soft lips. “I am eternally indebted to you and the… vast expanse of your benevolence,” he chuckled softly, still catching his breath. “And I am forever grateful that you have made a happy home for this prodigal son in your boudoir.” The tip of his tongue poked out to wet the cleave of his lip. You smirked and thumbed it open, and he licked at you playfully before giving your fingers a soft nip.

“Thank you for letting me take care of you, little bird,” you lilted, the quiet words full to bursting with adoration. “And I meant what I said.” You took his scruffed chin pointedly and turned his bashful, blushing face to yours. “I would give you everything, if I could.” He exhaled, eyes falling closed as he let himself be momentarily overwhelmed with your affection, pulled into the sea of it. He swallowed wetly, his throat bobbing as he cleared it.

“Oh, beloved,” Ezra purred, low and warm. “You have.”

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[yoursgemstonesshop]

[palaeosinensis]

So this project has been coming together nicely. See below the cut to see how the whole printmaking process went and hear me yak about it!

What started as a sketchbook idea was traced over, refined, flipped, transferred to some easy cut lino, carved, and then today we did some test printing! The first two are the proofs that came out first on dry paper. The second pair of proofs are on dipped paper. The third pair are on misted paper. I used some Bristol smooth because it's what I had lying around. I've also got some sheet watercolor (Either Arches or Winsor+Newton) but I haven't tried it yet. I used Speedball fabric oil-based ink. I feel like I need to go pick a printmaker's brain because it's been a decade since I did this and I don't remember what papers we used among other things. I now also need to figure out if my blotchiness is technique, if it's paper, and whether or not I would benefit from a small lever press. These were burnished with a combination of spoon and thunder egg brayer. Yes I said thunder egg I am just that unintentionally metal. It's like a sliced open geode except it's smooth agate instead of crystals so it's shaped very perfectly for what I needed today.

[lonniemachin]

JEWELRY RAFFLE FOR PALESTINIAN SURVIVAL AID -- EXTENDED

Due to a lack of entries, a need to get this jewelry off my hands, and these 3 fundraisers' need to reach their goals ASAP, I've decided to extend my authentic crystal jewelry raffle for another month, or until I feel I have enough entries to do the raffle properly.

A local artisan was kind enough to provide me with 8 pieces of authentic crystal jewelry to offer for donation funds supporting three different campaigns for Palestinian families looking to evacuate Gaza or in need of survival aid while in Gaza.

These families are:

Ahmed and Maram’s family (in Euro)

Mohammed Shamia’s family (in Swedish kroner)

Marah Atallah’s family (in USD)

All families are 100% legitimate — I have been in contact with Maram and Ahmed for months, who have provided me multiple pictures, videos, and recordings of their situation. They have been featured in a video by YouTuber Ro Ramdin and have been vetted by @/el-shab-hussein. I am also in consistent contact with their beneficiary through a group chat who updates us on the movement of all money.

Mohammed’s family has multiple pictures and videos of their situation on family member Ahmad’s Twitter/X account proving their legitimacy. I have personally communicated with Ahmad and his history online stretches back far before 10/7. His campaign has been SEVERELY stagnant, often going 20+ days before receiving a donation. He is trying to raise enough to evacuate his sister and her two children. He has had 2 donations in 29 DAYS!

I personally connected Marah to the one managing her campaign, who is a friend of mine. Marah is also friends in-person with other verified families over on Twitter/X, where she posts pictures and videos of she and her family’s situation. They use all money raised to survive displacement in Gaza and to save up enough to register for evacuation when the time is right. Marah’s campaign has been shared by @/90-ghost.

Donate an amount of $5/€5/kr50 SEK or more in multiples of 5, DM me proof of your donation, and tell me which piece you are interested in (send the number and letter listed next to the description of the piece). I will enter your name into a raffle for the piece you would like. One donation of 5/kr50 SEK = one entry, 10/kr100 SEK = 2 entries, and so on. At the end of the raffle, I will randomly choose one recipient per piece, contact said recipient for details, and mail the piece to you.

From left to right: A pair of Rutilated Quartz earrings valued $20 (E1), a pair of Kunzite earrings valued $18 (E2), and a pair of multi tourmaline earrings valued $20 (E3).

From left to right: A labradorite, aura quartz, clear aura crackle quartz, and sea sediment jasper bracelet valued $30 (B1), and a chrysocolla, morganite, phosphosiderite, and yellow opal bracelet valued $30 (B2).

From left to right: A clear quartz necklace valued $30 (N1), a red tiger’s eye necklace valued $30 (N2), and a flower agate, rose quartz, lepidolite, strawberry quartz, and clear quartz necklace valued $32 (N3).

If you can’t participate, that’s okay! Please share this post so that others may see and enter to win some beautiful jewelry for the most important cause — saving lives.

Tagging for reach under the cut

@wayneradiotv @killy @kahin @tododeku-or-bust @wellwaterhysteria

@kibumkim @mangocheesecakes @kyra45-helping-others @7bitter @tortiefrancis 

@toiletpotato @fromjannah @omegaversereloaded @vague-humanoid @evillesbianvillain

@aristotels @komsomolka @riding-with-the-wild-hunt @heritageposts  @ot3 @brutaliakhoa

@amygdalae @ankle-beez @dykesbat @deepspaceboytoy 

@mazzikah @mahoushojoe @ana-bananya @rhubarbspring @pcktknife

@3amsnow @orange-coloredsky @ehjane @dogesterone @specialmouse

@smalldumbpigeon @sakeeeee @bhavna-does-stuff @hal-your-pal @nevermore-was-here 

@pronouncingitwang @sloppystyle @saltycharacters @cloudofdarkness @dirhwangdaseul

@boudicca @soul-hammer @mxwhore @desire-mona @batmanego

@magnus-rhymes-with-swagness @turian @determinate-negation @sylvianritual @neptunerings

[madangel19]

Mushy May Day 6: "You're Blushing"

Another adorable prompt from @forlorn-crows mushy may list! Mountain and Rain spend some time by the lake :3

Pairing: Mountain/Rain

Rating: Everyone ^-^

Word Count: 573

It was a perfectly warm afternoon. A perfect day to spend by the lake. Mountain sat by the edge of the water, watching as Rain splashed around in the water. The water ghoul was beyond excited when he heard news about the lake warming up after such a cold winter. He could still swim in the lake when it was cold, but he often complained after coming out and needed a much needed hot bath. 

“There’s a bunch new rocks I’ve never seen before down here! How did I miss these?” Rain exclaimed after coming to the surface with his hands full of different objects.

“Come on over and show them to me!” Mountain replied, eager to see Rain’s treasure. Rain often wasn’t the type to get overly excited about anything, so seeing him like this was rare.

The water ghoul swam to shore and briefly shook himself before sitting next to him. He laid out his collection of rocks and grabbed two different orange rocks.

“This one is a jasper and that’s agate! They kinda remind me of Dewdrop a bit. Fiery just like him,” Rain chuckled while handing him the stones. Mountain held the stones up to the sun, admiring their beauty. 

“Some of these stones are usually found in underwater caves so there has to be one around here. I’ll find it sooner or later and make it mine,” Rain crowed, holding up several black stones. 

The water ghoul continued to ramble on excitedly about the different stones he collected, his smile getting all the wider and toothier. Mountain couldn’t help but stare at him affectionately. He was so passionate about his rocks. The rest of the pack would listen to him whenever the topic was brought up, but the conversation often changed quickly to other topics and there was an obvious drop in enthusiasm from the water ghoul. It was nice listening to him talk even though he already knew so much about rocks.

“Ah, am I boring you? You haven’t said anything,” Rain said.

“Oh no. Keep talking about the rocks. I like listening to you talk about them so passionately,” Mountain said, inching closer to the water ghoul. Rain was quiet for a moment before his cheeks turned a light pink and he chirped, sounding like a baby alligator.

“You’re blushing, Rainy,” Mountain smiled, his tail thumping against the earth.

Rain quickly covered the bottom half of his mouth, still chirping and being absolutely adorable. 

“Fuck…I am. You…really like it when I talk about rocks?” He questioned after a few more chirps. 

“Absolutely. You’re so passionate and I love to see it,” Mountain replied.

More silence. It was clear he wouldn’t get anything else out of the water ghoul unless he changed the subject soon. 

Moments passed and Rain moved to sit next to Mountain, nuzzling his shoulder and wrapping his tail around his middle. The earth ghoul purred, petting the top of his head. He grabbed a shiny black rock at random and showed it to Rain.

“Tell me about this one, Rain,” he said. He knew what it was, but he wanted him to keep talking. Rain touched it with delicate claws, chirping softly.

“That’s a lucky stone,” Rain started.

Mountain hummed in content as he continued listening to the water ghoul talk about why such a stone was called a lucky stone. He was glad he came out to the lake with Rain today.