#i can't believe the inlay worked

[rimeswithpurple]

Happy Birthday Baz!

Lemon Swiss Roll Cake with blueberry jam & lavender cream | Unicorn Inlay | Gumpaste Flowers

@rainbowrowell

[demondamage]

MediwhumpMay 10 - Short of breath

CW: Mentioned of forced surgery, Organs (in specimen jar!)

(writing is only tangentially related to the prompt, feel free to skip if you just want hard whumpy stuff.)

"You ripped out his lungs?" Alejo asked, an eyebrow raised slightly. "That's a little more brutal than I'd expect from you."

"No, I surgically removed one lung as a preventative measure." Kotarou sighed and sat at the table across from the other angel. "And I don't take that from you, I've seen you rip a demon's arms out of their sockets with your bare hands."

"Oh no for me that would be mild." Alejo chuckled, sipping the tea his former apprentice had served them. "But for you... well I remember when you refused to even touch a holy whip, calling it needlessly sadistic."

"I still don't like them." Kotarou shook his head. "But I do understand the necessity."

"But removing vital organs without anesthesia? That's all good for you?"

"It proved necessary didn't it? I'd be a lot more worried about a demon loose in my lab if he was in good condition."

"About that..."

"Haziel's on guard." Kotarou sipped on the hot tea. "And I will take this as a nice moment of rest before that shit storm."

"Ah." Alejo's eyebrows crinkled. "You trust Haziel alone?"

"I trust him to stand at that door and not let anyone in or out." Kotarou sighed. "And I trust him not to lose to a demon who can barely breath."

"And not go in and antagonize Aziphem?" Alejo mused, folding his hands.

"... no, fuck you're right I should go deal with this." Kotarou rubbed his eyes. "Alejo... I need another favor."

"It always seems like you do." The older man chuckled. "What do you need this time?"

"I need you to look into who he was before he was brought to me."

"You should have been given Aziphem's file when you took him as your ward, that should have everything-"

"I meant Haziel."

Alejo paused, rubbing the small floral designs inlayed on Kotarou's teacup.

"You know we aren't supposed to ask those questions."

"Of course I know, why do you think I'm asking you to find out for me? I have enough eyes on me with this project and if I slip up, Haziel will be reassigned."

"And gods help us if they give him to someone like Ivior." Alejo sighed. "Fine, what are you looking for?"

"I want you to see if you can track his movements on the surface world, and specifically cross reference them with where Aziphem was at those times."

"You think they have history."

"It's hard to believe Haziel is just angry, this is something more."

"I doubt that both of them would be able to keep this a secret."

"Aziphem wouldn't tell me what he ate for dinner even if I was the one who served it. I'm lucky if I get an honest yes or no answer to anything." Kotarou sighed. "As for Haziel... he doesn't talk much about his previous life and I'm not supposed to ask. He could have lied."

"I think it's a long shot, but can't hurt to look." Alejo sighed, putting down the now empty cup. "I'll see if my archives entrance is still unsecured tonight and get back to you. Now, go check on those two before they kill each other."

"I owe you."

"That you damn well do, and I will accept payment in pleasant company." Alejo chuckled, leaving the small kitchen nook the two had been enjoying their rest in. "When we both have time of course. Which you should schedule in now by the way, because if my pocket book is correct you owe me quite a lot of pleasant company."

"And you shall continue to get IOUs until such time as I complete my work." Kotarou chuckled, walking his old master out of the small, unassuming countryside home he claimed as his personal residence.

"I'll check back in the next century then." Alejo chuckled. "Good luck with the little shits."

With a slight shimmer of the air, Alejo was gone, leaving Kotarou alone to deal with what he knew would not be a pretty scene at the lab.

@mediwhumpmay

Comics tag list: @whump-tr0pes @whump-queen @whumpsday @whumpinthepot @kixngiggles @onlywhumpcomments @project-xiii@quietly-by-myself @dontworrycomics

[rainywerewolfmoon]

Tales Of Fairyland

Ao3 link here Tales Of Fairyland - Chapter 14 - Princessmh9 - Original Work [Archive of Our Own]

Authors note I know last chapter it was said that it been a moon when a couple of chapters ago it was four moons it was mistake from last chapter. I meant to say six moons instead of one and that has been fixed. Sorry for any confusion.

Chapter 14: Looming Darkness

{Nixon smiles as he steps back to admire Starlessia throne. The throne, a true masterpiece of artistry and enchantment, dominated the room with its magnificence. It was fashioned from a single massive piece of deep ebony wood, polished to a lustrous sheen. The high, intricately-carved backrest resembled a pair of immense wings, with feathers delicately etched into the wood, each one so lifelike it seemed ready to take flight. The armrests were adorned with jeweled inlays that sparkled like stars against the dark wood, and upon closer inspection, they revealed constellations in a breathtaking display of craftsmanship. Moonstone accents, set into the armrests and backrest, emitted a soft, ethereal glow that bathed the throne in a gentle, ever-shifting radiance. At the center of the backrest, a stunning amethyst gemstone, large and multifaceted, was set into a carved recess, its rich purple hues seeming to hold a piece of the night sky itself. This focal point imbued the throne with an otherworldly aura, casting subtle beams of violet light throughout the room.

The seat of the throne was cushioned with the softest midnight blue velvet, embroidered with intricate patterns of silver thread that glistened as though woven from starlight. On either side of the cushion, there were two small compartments, discreetly hidden beneath carved panels, containing hidden drawers for the storage of precious scrolls, artifacts, or other royal treasures. Intricate symbols and sigils, symbolizing the royal lineage and the power of the Court of Shadows, adorned the arms and legs of the throne. It was a majestic and imposing sight, fit for a princess destined for great things in the realm of magic.}

{Nixon} It's a masterpiece, fit for a princess. The craftsmanship is exceptional.

{Sablethorn} We wanted nothing but the best for our daughter.

{Nocturnia} Starlessia, dear, what do you think of your new throne?

{Starlessia, with a smile} It's beautiful, Mother, Father. Thank you.

{Willow and Aurora, still uncertain, watch with curiosity from the side.}

{Willow, whispering to Aurora} I can't believe this is our life now.

{Aurora} We'll figure it out, Willow. We always do.

{Sablethorn, addressing Starlessia} Tomorrow, we'll begin your training with more focus on your powers. You have great potential, and we want you to harness it fully.

{Starlessia nods, determined} I'll do my best, Mother.}

{Nocturnia} We have to ger your corrnation dress made for you and your tiara as well my dear daughter. We might as well get clothes made for your friends as well

{Starlessia, her eyes filled with excitement} Yes, Mother! I want everything to be perfect for the coronation. And please, make sure Willow and Aurora have beautiful dresses too. They're my friends, and they deserve to feel special.

{Nocturnia} Of course, darling. We'll make sure everything is ready for your big day.

{Sablethorn} We want this to be a celebration to remember, not just for you but for all of us.

{Starlessia} Thank you, Mother, Father. I'm so grateful for everything you've done for me.

{Nocturnia} You're our precious Starlessia, and we would move the heavens and the earth to make you happy.

{Sablethorn} And we will, my dear. Now, let's start planning your coronation in earnest. There's much to be done.

{Aroura} Elara I mean Starlessia me and brother don’t think this is a good idea. You only seven stars old.

{Starlessia} So what? You are both ten stars old.

{Willow} We may be ten stars old but we were born three stars before you.

{Starlessia} It's just a few stars' difference. Besides, I have the magic to be a good ruler, and I want to make our kingdom with a cold hand.

{Willow} Elara, this is the Court of Shadows. These are not your real parents.

{Starlessia, growing more serious} That’s a lie. They are my real parents. And the Court of Shadows is my home.

{Aurora} Wake up Elara. Your under a spell of some sort.

{Starlessia her eyes glowing bright red as the air crackles with powers and shadows.

{Willow} Elara, we don't recognize you anymore. Something's changed you, and it's not just growing up. We won't give up on you, though.

{Starlessia, her eyes glowing red with power} You don't understand. This is who I am now. And anyone who opposes me will face the consequences.

{Aurora} Elara, please! We're your friends!

{Starlessia} I told you Elara is dead

{Willow, tears welling up in his eyes} Elara, we won't accept that. We'll find a way to break whatever hold they have on you. You're our friend, and we love you.

{Aurora, her voice filled with determination} You can fight this, Elara. We won't give up on you.

{Starlessia, her powers intensifying, sends dark energy toward Willow and Aurora, causing them to stumble back.}

{Willow, struggling to resist the magic} Elara, please, remember who you are!

{Aurora, her voice trembling but resolute} We're your friends, Elara, and we believe in you!

{Sablethorn and Nocturnia, watching the display of their daughter's power, exchange a proud glance.}

{Sablethorn, a sinister smile} Yes, Starlessia, let your power flow. Embrace your true destiny.

{Nocturnia, her eyes gleaming with anticipation} You're becoming stronger with each passing moment, my dear. Embrace the darkness.

{Starlessia closed her eyes as the darkness surrounded her.} {Starlessia} Elara was a weakling. A freek. A nothing. But now that Starlessia is here she has taken over this weak body and using it for the greatness of the shadows.

{Willow and Aurora, their determination unwavering, continue to reach out to Elara, despite the darkness that surrounds her.}

{Willow, her voice filled with emotion} Elara, don't listen to the lies! You're not weak, and you're not a freak. You're our friend, and we love you just the way you are!

{Aurora, tears streaming down her face} Starlessia may have taken over, but we won't give up on you. We'll keep fighting until you come back to us.

{Sablethorn and Nocturnia watch with pride, their daughter's transformation into Starlessia becoming more complete.}

{Nocturnia, a wicked smile on her face} Yes, embrace the shadows, my dear. With your power, we will rule the Court of Shadows and beyond.

{Starlessia, her eyes cold and determined, stands tall amidst the darkness.}

{Starlessia} Elara is gone, and she won't be coming back. Now, I am Starlessia, the ruler of the Court of Shadows. And now, bow to your Princess.

{She uses her dark powers on the twins as they watch in horror as they were forced to bow to her. Willow and Aurora, unable to resist the dark power that Starlessia wields, are forced to bow before her. Their hearts ache as they see their friend consumed by darkness. Starlessia, a sinister smile on her face, revels in her newfound power.}

{Starlessia} Yes, that's right. Bow to your Princess, for I am now the ruler of the Court of Shadows, and you will obey me.

{Sablethorn and Nocturnia stand nearby, their faces filled with satisfaction as their plan unfolds.}

{Sablethorn, his voice filled with triumph} Excellent, my daughter. You have embraced your destiny.

{Nocturnia, her eyes gleaming with pride} With this power, we shall dominate the shadows and beyond.

{As Starlessia revels in her newfound power and control, Willow and Aurora remain bound by the dark enchantment, unable to break free. The atmosphere in the room grows heavy with darkness, and the shadows seem to dance to Starlessia's will.}

{Starlessia} Now, my loyal subjects, you shall serve me well in the Court of Shadows. Our reign will be glorious, and all shall bow before us.

{Willow and Aurora, their heads bowed, are unable to speak or resist.}

{Sablethorn and Nocturnia, their faces filled with satisfaction, exchange a glance of approval.}

{Sablethorn} Our dominion over the shadows has begun. Together, we shall rule with an iron grip.

{Nocturnia} And none shall dare to defy us.

...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

{On the edges of the outlands of Fairyland a group of dear and unicorn and Pegasus were grazing peacefully when they looked up and started to gallop away in fear as a blackness as cold as the shadows starts to overtake the meadow. As the darkness creeps across the meadow, the deer, unicorns, and pegasi flee in a panicked stampede, their hooves pounding against the ground. The once peaceful and vibrant meadow is now engulfed in a chilling black void, erasing all traces of life and beauty.

The darkness continues to spread, leaving a trail of desolation in its wake. It seeps into the trees, turning their leaves to ash, and extinguishing the delicate glow of fireflies that once danced among the branches. Birds take to the sky in a frantic escape, their melodious songs silenced by the encroaching shadow. The very air grows heavy with a sense of foreboding as the land succumbs to this malevolent force. In the heart of the meadow, a single flower, its petals the color of moonlight, resists the encroaching darkness, its fragile beauty a symbol of hope amidst the despair. The source of this ominous darkness remains shrouded in mystery, but its presence signals a threat to the very essence of Fairyland itself.

In the far end of Enchanted Forest Lindir looks out on his balcony of his castle with worry. He can feel the unease in the air. Something was not right, and it was something bad. Albina walks up to him in worry.}

{Albina} Time it is running out my love. We need to save Elara as soon as we can.

{Lindir} Already the shadows are getting cocky and getting closer and closer.

{Albina} I wish Reed would hurry up with the answer to break that geas. I can't stand this no more.

{Lindir} I know you can't my love. But think of our son and daughter-in-law. I fear that even after we battle the Court of Shadows, we won't see the last of them.

{Albina} What are you saying Lindir?

{Lindir} I mean that I am afraid there might be one more battle ahead. If Elara becomes consumed by their dark influence, she may never be herself again. It's as Merlin warned us many, many, many stars ago. We may be free of the darkness but when we are the shadows will come with more power than ever. I am afraid Merlin saw what we are facing all those stars ago.

{Albina listens to Lindir's words with a heavy heart, her worry deepening as he speaks.}

{Albina} Are you saying that even if we succeed in battling the Court of Shadows and rescuing Elara, she might never be the same again?

{Lindir} Yes, my love. I fear that once darkness has touched her soul, it may leave a lasting mark. And Merlin's words, from many stars ago, resonate with me now. He may have foreseen the challenges we are facing and those that may lie ahead.

{Albina and Lindir stand on the balcony, gazing out at the Enchanted Forest, knowing that their love and determination will be tested in ways they never imagined. The fate of their family and their beloved kingdom hangs in the balance, and they are prepared to face whatever challenges come their way to protect the light and magic of Fairyland.}

...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

{Reed, the royal healer, sits in his chamber, surrounded by ancient tomes and scrolls. He has been tirelessly researching a way to break the powerful geas that binds Elara. His brow furrows in frustration as he flips through pages and mutters incantations under his breath.}

{Reed, sighing} This geas is unlike anything I've ever encountered. It's as if the very essence of darkness is woven into it.

{He continues to study the intricate patterns and symbols in the ancient texts, searching for a solution that can save their beloved princess from the clutches of the Court of Shadows. Time is of the essence, and Reed knows that every moment counts in their race against the encroaching darkness.}

{Reed, muttering to himself} There must be a way... a weakness in the geas... something overlooked...

{As he delves deeper into his research, Reed's determination to find a solution only grows stronger. The room is filled with the soft glow of candlelight, casting eerie shadows on the walls as he works tirelessly. The weight of Elara's absence and the impending threat of the Court of Shadows hang heavy in the air. Suddenly, as he turns a page in one of the ancient scrolls, Reed's eyes widen in realization.}

{Reed excitedly} Of course how can I be so stupid. She is next in line to the powers of Merlin just like her mother is.

{Reed's excitement is palpable as he pieces together the puzzle. He knows that Elara's unique lineage holds the key to breaking the geas. With newfound determination, he meticulously studies the scrolls and texts that reveal the connection between Elara and her family's magical legacy. As the candles burn low and the night turns into dawn, Reed finally uncovers the ancient incantation that will unlock Elara's true potential and break the geas that bind her. He whispers the words, feeling the power surge through him as he understands the significance of what he's discovered.}

{Reed, determined} This is it. The key to unlocking Elara's true magic and breaking the geas. I must share this with Genevieve and the others immediately.

{With the newfound knowledge firmly in his grasp, Reed hurries to find Genevieve and the rest of the group, eager to set in motion the plan that will lead to Elara's rescue and the defeat of the Court of Shadows.}

...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

{The weight of despair and worry fills the throne room as Genevieve, Ash, Titania, and Oberon sit in silence. The absence of Elara and the twins looms large, casting a shadow over the once vibrant and lively place. The tears that have been shed have left traces of sorrow on their faces, and their hearts ache with longing for their loved ones. Oberon clenches his fist in frustration, while Ash's jaw is set with determination. They both share the same desire to bring Elara and the twins back safely. The waiting is agonizing, but they know that Reed is their best hope to find a way to break the geas and rescue the missing children.}

{Genevieve, her voice trembling} I can't bear this emptiness any longer. I miss them so much.

{Titania, her eyes filled with tears, reaches out to comfort Genevieve} We all do, my dear. We must hold on to hope and trust in Reed's abilities. He will find a way.

{The room remains heavy with the somber atmosphere, but the resolve to reunite with Elara and the twins remains unwavering, bolstered by their trust in Reed and their determination to overcome the darkness that has taken hold of their beloved Fairyland. The door opens and Reed rushes in.}

{Ash} Reed you better have good news for us.

{Reed, a glimmer of hope in his eyes, steps forward with a sense of urgency.}

{Reed} I believe I've found a way to break the geas on Elara. It's not going to be easy, and it will require a great deal of magic and preparation, but it's possible.

{Genevieve's eyes light up with hope.} Tell us what we need to do, Reed. We'll do anything to bring Elara and the twins back.

{Reed} We need something that is associated with Elara and her lineage.

{Genevieve} Excalibur. You need Excalibur.

{Reed} Excalibur, yes, that could be the key. The sword of great power, deeply connected to her lineage. We'll need it for the ritual.

{Genevieve} I go and fetch it.

{She stands up and hurriers out of the room to her and Ash’s chambers. There on the wall was Excalbur with the Heart of Lumnia embedded in the hilt. She walks over and pulls it off the wall. Genevieve carefully retrieves Excalibur, feeling its immense power as she holds it in her hands. The Heart of Lumnia embedded in the hilt shimmers with a brilliant light, a testament to the sword's extraordinary magic. With Excalibur in her possession, she returns to the court chamber, where Reed awaits.}

{Reed} Excellent, Princess Genevieve. Now that we have Excalibur, we can proceed with the preparations for the ritual. But be warned, this will not be an easy task. Breaking a geas of this magnitude is fraught with risks.

{Genevieve} We understand, Reed. We have to try, for Elara and the twins.

{The court members gather around Excalibur, ready to embark on the difficult journey to rescue their beloved princess and her friends.}

[caffeinatedgoddess]

"A Woman Should Be Two Things; Who And What She Wants." ~Coco Chanel

Happy International Women's Day! I thought I'd shamelessly take the opportunity today to introduce myself as the face of Caffeinated Goddess and answer a few basic questions.

When did I know I was a witch? I think I've always known. I grew up feeling out of place and different. I loved rocks and nature. I've always been an empath, feeling others' emotions from a young age and needing to learn to differentiate them from my own. I've also been claircognizant, but only more recently accepted it for what it is.... more than just good intuition. In my early 20s, I actually started practicing with tarot but then met my overly religious asshat of an ex-husband and went back in the broom closet. It's only been in the last three years that I started practicing openly. An abusive marriage tied up in Christianity made it so I had to spend years untangling myself and coming to terms with my own beliefs after our divorce. Now, I'm back on the path of practicing with tarot and stones and using my intuition and knowledge to try to help others with the full support of my current husband.

What do you create/sell in your Etsy shop? Right now, I create meaningful stone bracelets, pendants, spell jars, and sigils. Back when I was going through my healing process, I started working with beads and sold at markets in Sedona, Arizona. I found working with my hands cathartic and loved that I sold pieces that people really connected with. When we moved to Pennsylvania, my art grew into wood carving and stone inlay. As my practice grew, I started working with sigils and healing modalities and started offering them as a service in my shop. You can link to my shop here.

Why the name Caffeinated Goddess? Coffee. That's it. I can't live without it. I'd drink it all day long if I could. And, I believe that ALL women are goddesses. Simple. Enough said.

It's an exciting time with Caffeinated Goddess right now! After connecting on a small level with the spirits in our new home, I've been much more centered and have had new inspiration. I'm slowly working on revamping the shop and will share my progress as I go!