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thesignature · 5 years ago

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Sunset @ Olie’s Cafe

On a sunny Saturday I decided to take a short road trip to another district, BELAIT just to kick off my weekend. I have decided to give a try to one of the current trending place especially for KETO meals. I was told that hidden amidst the sleepy Seria town lies a charming culinary gem with an invitingly cozy and warm atmosphere called Olie’s cafe. To be honest, I am not that familiar with neither Seria nor Belait.

With Waze application assisting my trip to KB, I stayed closely to the instruction given by the lady in the app (๑>ᴗ<๑).

As we reached Seria Town, with the unfamiliar road, it was nerve wrecking.

At first I lost my way with the address given in their instagram as I don't know which building is which

୧| ͡ᵔ ﹏ ͡ᵔ |୨

I approached a stranger asking for direction to Olie’s Cafe, unfortunately she is also unsure. However, another kind and friendly stranger overheard us asking for direction. He then approached us to make sure that he heard it right. He then told us its just just across the road.

Located in a clean looking alley of Seria Town, Olie’s Cafe is situated on the 1st floor. As you walk passed, you will see a number of cafe at the ground floor. Olie’s Cafe is labelled with a simple hanging sign and chalk board listing some of their menu on one side and their opening hours on the other side.

The moment I stepped inside, I was instantly captivated by the modern and calming shades of blue interior that takes its cue from the night sky and the aroma of freshly made espresso permeating the air. In contrast, opposite the calming blue shade of the feature wall as entering the cafe, the wall is coloured in a natural calm white with frames filled in with images of black an white coffee, enhancing the calm and balance of the atmosphere.

In my opinion, this is a place to hang out whilst enjoying the ambience and at the same time indulge myself in some guilt free food and dessert ٩(●ᴗ●)۶

Olie’s Cafe offered their Hearty Packed Meals of Pick N’ Mix where you can customized your meal according to your preference of main dish, base, sauce and sides. The price for this varies from BND8.00 - BND12.00. However, if you are to choose low carb/keto base such as caulirice (cauliflower rice) or caulimash (mashed cauliflower) there will be additional BND1.00 to your meal.

If you decided to make it as a set meal that comes with healthy drinks or keto cake, there will be a discounted price on them.

I have decided to order 2 Hearty Pick N’ Mix meal

Meal 1:

Main Dish: Salmon with Cream Cheese & Spinach

Fresh Steamed Salmon topped with tasty cream cheese and spinach slightly break the creamy texture adding a chewy texture on the topping. The tender salmon meat that melted in your mouth mixed well with the cream cheese and spinach.

Base: Caulimash

‘What is mashed potatoes?’

‘Did I just eat cauliflower?’

That thought just passed by my head. Hardly taste the cauliflower. Is there even cauliflower in this? It more like a little watery mixture of mash (but no potatoes) and the strong taste of the herb making it savoury but you can enjoy it as much as you want without feeling guilty. For the very first time I enjoy eating CAULIFLOWER. Kids will love cauliflower like they never did before if its cook in this way. I never like to eat Cauliflower as a kid (و ˃̵ᴗ˂̵)و

Sides: Grilled Vegetables of the Day

The vegetables of the day were slices of eggplant and capsicum. The vegetables is carefully grilled with the taste of the herbs and healthy seasoning fully absorbed in it. From the taste, you can tell that they carefully control the grilling temperature so that they did not burn the vegetables which can leave a bruising burnt taste in the vegetables.

Toppings: Homemade Cheese Sauce

One word: TASTY.

The homemade cheese taste as creamy as I could imagine but it did not leave any greasy after taste.

Set Meal: Keto Booster Vanilla with Collagen

Indescribable taste of vanilla, foamy and creamy texture. The non-existence of the feeling of guilty is a nice surprise ٩(θ‿θ)۶

Meal 2:

Main Dish: Low Carb “Buttermilk” Chicken

The buttermilk sauce: Creamy but light texture as compared to the typical buttermilk sauce. However the satisfaction you get from this low carb buttermilk sauce is not less than the typical ordinary buttermilk sauce complete with the taste of curry leaves aroma and the spiciness

Chicken: the chicken breast is super tender and they did not use flour for the crispy chicken in the normal buttermilk chicken. However, the essence of creamy sauce can nicely tasted as you take a bite.

Base: Caulirice

Initially I was quite nervous in tasting the caulirice as the phobia of the healthy taste of cauliflower. But I braved myself to try it and to my surprise, the non existence of cauliflower after taste makes me want to take another spoonful of the caulirice. All I can taste is just merely garlic and herbal taste with a hint of olive oil and seasoning, but it did not have greasy after taste

Sides: Grilled Vegetables of the Day

Topping: Homemade Cheese Sauce

Set Meal: Keto Sesame Charcoal Cheesecake

Super Moist

Topped with dark chocolate and healthy cream which has the taste of sesame. The part that I am most curious is the base of the cake. I’m pretty sure they used olive butter to bind the crust, but I’m not quite sure of the substitute of the digestive cookies that is usually used as cheese cake base. And because of this I might come back for further investigation.

In addition to the above, I also tried one of the most popular cakes among customers is the Keto Burnt Cheesecake — a refreshing compliment after a hearty meal.

The best I ever tasted.

Knowing it’s a keto cheesecake, I did not have a high expectation on this cake. In spite of being a keto cheese cake, this classic keto burnt cheesecake has taken the first place in my burnt cheese cake list 🥳🥳. It can not be denied that the satisfaction you get is as much as or equivalent to the normal burnt cheese cake. But most importantly GUILT-FREE.

Another additional order of mine which I was so curious at the same time excited is: Keto C8 Bulletproof Tea Tarik. (Yes, the tea tarik sound scary as M16 Rifle).

However, it is not scary as it sound, because it is an extra foamy tea tarik I ever drink compared to the Mamak’s tea tarik. Not as creamy as the Mamak’s though. It has a very light texture as you drink it but it is not as creamy nevertheless you can still taste the milk in the tea. It is more like a fine and fancy tea tarik. As you take a slurp, you will tend to find the thick and mily texture of tea tarik to make sure its tea tarik. But you can’t disqualified this as tea tarik as it fulfilled the specification of tea tarik: Tea ✅ Milk ✅ Foam ✅ Tarik ✅ Hence, it is legit tea tarik.

In order to keep their food and beverages healthy and sugar-free as possible, Olie’s Cafe sweetened their drinks using Xylitol / Erythritol / Monkfruit / Stevia extract unless stated otherwise. But you can request if you preferred them to be sweetened by sugar.

The food are really filling and I enjoyed each and every bites of them that I came out of the cafe, the skies was already dark. It was a nice dinner; complete with a relaxing ambience to end my Saturday and ready to chill on my Sunday.

Olie’s Cafe is located at the first floor of Unit 2, Lot 10, Jalan Sultan Omar Ali, Seria.

Opening Hours:

Mon-Sun (Except Fri): 10am-10pm Fri 10am-12pm, 2pm-8pm Last hot meal orders 1hour before closing

Much Love,

TheSignature

#ubd #ubdax3305 #belait #keto #health #healthy #meal #healthydinner #ax3305

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creeping-crowley · 6 years ago

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♰ Angel at My Shoulder ♰

12:46

44 minutes until lunch with Aziraphale.

The day had not yet gotten to the eventful part as Crowley went about minding his own business tending to the veritable trembling rainforest that made up his London flat. A careful golden eye was fixed on the time. Not too carefully, mind, for a fashionably late entrance was often favourable for the demon. After all, quaint little lunches and well-timed teas were Aziraphale’s fancy- it only felt right for the angel to remain the one appearing as the most outwardly keen of the two.

The lunch was what Crowley had planned for. What he had not planned for was the driving pull that sucked his essence out of the London flat with the force that one might be pulled from an aeroplane should the door be opened mid-flight. A forest of fearful foliage had now been replaced with candles, the smell of chalk, old cedar, books a few ages old and a pot of salt in the far corner by the door. The distinctive smell of burning sage tainted the air, making it cloud up as though someone had failed catastrophically at cooking something. Why did everyone seem to burn sage these days as though it could fright the devil? Plants had no godly power over the satanic realms or those who dabbled in them. If anything, (thanks to Crowley) plants possessed a healthy fear for the demonic and would likely ask to be removed from any supernatural settings whatsoever should they have the ability to express any opinion.

Collecting himself in a disorientated haze, Crowley stumbled, drunk on the sensation of the room spinning and the assault over the senses that all the items within seemed to cause. It certainly wasn’t hell. The stench wasn’t anywhere near bad enough. Besides, hell didn’t smell like…Were those vanilla candles? Crowley grimaced in disgust.

Why did some fool have to be performing an evocation today?

The woman looked like a witch. Well as much as a woman with long hair, an extensive candle collection and sage bundles could as she stood facing him, clutching a bible to her chest. Did witches keep bibles?

“I call upon the demon whom holds the name Crowley.”

A slow sinking sensation settled upon the demon as he watched the reverse exorcism play out. Evocations had been a phenomenon that humans dipped their toes into less in the modern age, but it was not entirely unheard of. Crowley had never been subject to a direct summoning, however. It was not an honour. It was a chore. A dangerous one, at that.

An instinctive dislike of the space had Crowley’s feet prowling, attempting to pace (as much as the small expanse would allow). In a somewhat rash endeavour, he tested the boundary with a precursory flick of a finger- a flick that proved startlingly sore as though he had stuck his finger into a white-hot coal as it approached the barrier of the circle. With a hiss, the demon snatched the appendage back, popping it into his mouth as a moody child does with a lolly to take the sting away.

Ah.

Perhaps this was some sort of cruel retribution for the total tits-up of Armageddon. Some attempt to bind him to the world he cherished so much, to imprison him there as some sort of genie in a summoning circle, or other novelty for humans to enjoy and him to…enjoy less.

Crowley’s face slipped into a flat glare.

“You know, most god-loving people don’t dabble like this. Trust me when I tell you that God doesn’t tend to like dabbling.” If the bible was anything to go off, this woman seemed to have some value for scripture. Crowley could work with that.

Crowley merely dabbled with Adam and Eve, reminding them of their will of choice.

He had also dabbled with God’s plan (Or had it all been part of God’s plan?).

He had dabbled with Lucifer and the gang. (It had only been once. Well. Once before he had been outcast entirely, that was).

The demon had dabbled with earth (On multiple occasions. Dabbling on earth had become a favourite pastime of his).

Crowley had also dabbled with Aziraphale. (A treacherous occupation as far as both sides were concerned).

One could not get through life without dabbling, but if Crowley could convince the woman stood before him otherwise, then he would take every measure to accomplish such a feat. After all, as far as dabbling went, God’s rules were more stringent than others.

“God didn’t answer my prayer.”

Oh.

“Satan answered my prayers. He gave me your name directly.”

…Oh.

Well this was a remarkable little plot twist. One that inspired a little more hope than his latter presumption. Yes, there was rather the unfortunate mention of him directly by Satan, but he wasn’t dealing directly with Satan. He was dealing directly with a human.

A low, stirring sound brewed about Crowley’s voice as his bemusement furrowed his expression into a tangible question mark.

“Listen, if demon hostages worked the whole world would be doing it. I don’t do the ��three wishes’ thing. Not my brand.”

Steadily, the demon began to slink towards the threshold, punctuating his words in a low snarl.

“I don’t do good things. I don’t do favours. I don’t even take suggestions. So if you think that summoning a demon will get you whatever you were asking from God then I think you’ll find that you’re—”

A sharp action from the woman caused Crowley to bite his tongue. Quite literally. It was probably for the best, because as the demon had set about plastering himself as close to the threshold as he could get, the woman had become more and more tempted to throw the substance from the vial in her pocket over him and start over. For an awkward stretch the vial remained upheld , shaking a little from the weight of her arm and perhaps some nerves as she held it aloft as one does with a gun they have no clue how to fire.

Yellow eyes could not help but widen a touch.

Holy water.

Why, oh why, did it have to be today?

“Where the hea—” Crowley fumbled, correcting himself amidst the acrid unmistakable smell of the water. “—Hell did you get that?”

When Crowley had previously used the word ‘hostage’ he had intended it as a joke. It appeared, however, that the subject of his misfortune, had not.

“I’m not going to summon a demon without having some means to protect myself.”

“Oh yes, that’s very good. Very clever, really.” Crowley drawled mildly with a condescending note slithering through his words.

“A bit of overkill, you could say since I’M STUCK IN A CHALK CIRCLE!” It was laughably humiliating, although Crowley was not laughing. If any of his comrades could see him now, they would be howling with laughter. A demon tethered to a human floor as a dog is tied outside of a shop. It was a new low for Crowley, one which he appreciated the lack of audience for.

Somewhere far away in the dim light of his London flat, the plants breathed a sigh of relief at his sudden absence. And somewhere within the flat was a clock, and the clock struck one hour into the afternoon, chiming a loud scream into the empty marble halls.

13:00

30 minutes until lunch with Aziraphale.

The woman had winced at the shout, but seemingly realised that discorporating the very being she sought out would be rather wasteful. She had noted the efficiency within which the chalk playground appeared to confine Crowley and this inspired faith in her boldness. She had heard of how demons liked to trick those who summoned them, worming their way out of their confines and infecting the space in which they were summoned.

Demons, like most twisted things were often favourable at a price. The same goes for Satan. In giving the demon Crowley’s name to the human, he had imparted his own price upon her. Once the use of the demon Crowley was done, she was to add the holy water to the chalk and draw a new circle about him to close the séance – to get rid of him, as it were. To ensure her safety, just as she was so conscious of doing. Nobody wanted a demon lingering around after that sort of thing, usually.

Throughout his frustrations a thought did occur to Crowley. If the woman was not on the side of God, then perhaps she would be easier to influence into creating a more lenient agreement regarding the confinement. Humans were awfully stupid at times, and weren’t half as well versed on the capabilities of demons as those who were demons. The only downside was that bargaining with the human would take time. And he didn’t have time. He had a lunch to get to.

He’d ask her for a drink. A tea. Perhaps even a coffee. That was what a good host did, after all, except he had visions of her boiling a nice hot cup of holy water before adding the rest and the thought was enough to make his stomach churn.

Slowly, the demon settled (as much as one could when standing in a cramped slightly asymmetrical circle). His wings folded neatly between his shoulders, taking care not to touch the threshold. The woman stood there expectantly, almost as though waiting out the tantrum of a small child. Piercing golden eyes scanned the room, scanned the doors, scanned the windows, scanned the nearby books. Moodily, Crowley slumped into a posture that spoke less of ‘I want to maul you’ and more of ‘I am a human who has not slept in a week’. If anger and arguments won, he would be discorporated at worst and severely delayed at best. It was time to change tactics. It was time to adapt a little.

13:37

7 minutes late.

“Fine. What do you want?” The voice was tired, but not without residual irritation that bubbled beneath the surface.

Just humour it long enough to find an out. That’s all that needs to be done.

“My grandfather died. And I need you to bring him back.”

The demon’s nose wrinkled.

Now. There was an obvious out within this scenario- one that many a demon would pick up on quite swiftly. A dead body was a perfect soulless vessel- one that could possibly transcend the bond of the initial summoning. It was an out. A gross out. But a possibility.

It did not, however, appeal to Crowley, who was in an awful rush and fond of cutting corners.

“That’s it? That’s what you want?” Serpentine eyes tested the woman’s for a long moment as his mind wove about a solution for himself.

“…I’m going to need something that belonged to him.” Ah yes, the fabled art of a tether- it was ridiculous in most cases, but humans seemed to think it made sense.

“An old tie, a sock, perhaps a gold chain or a pair of sunglasses…” A glimmer of hope caught in the woman’s eyes and she took off, turning to focus on her mission of finding a suitable article from the deceased whilst Crowley continued his spiral through the five stages of grief at his containment. By the time she began searching the second room, Crowley was sat cross-legged on the floor, one hand cradling his cheek in a tableau of swallowed impatience. Soon the woman would come back. Soon he would demand she gave him the article she had found. And she would. She did, after all, agree that it made sense for some part of her grandfather’s essence be included in the ritual. What she was not accounting for, by the demon’s reluctant act of compliance was that within his plan all along was the part where he waited for her to break the confines of the circle by means of delivering any object or appendance through.

Quietly, the demon’s spare hand began to tap a soft rhythm onto the floorboards.

Somewhere distant in a restaurant a clock ticked to the same rhythm.

13:59

(( @gaily-gavotte ))

#good omens #good omens rp #crowley #aziraphale #hereee we go #2000 words of a moody demon #who deffo cares more about a lunch date than the food #but is probably hangry #maybe thats why he gets so mad sometimes

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antigenius · 5 years ago

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All To Cinders (Original Story)

A/n: So uh, I might rewrite parts of this later, as it was rushed for a deadline, but honestly? I’m really proud of this story, so here you go! It’s 6k words long, so buckle in-

WARNING: Murder, Suicidal theme

Her eyes painted chocolate brown, raven hair wild in the wind — her skin, olive and tanned to perfection.

A goddess.

Yet even a girl as herself can doubt every opportunity she could take.

A sigh escaped her rose lips, moonlit eyes glazed down the river with her arms on the bridge's rail. Her floral dress fluttered as she gazed down into her reflection. Anyone else would see a pretty face, yet within her soul, she could hear the darkness preying on her essence. Its claws yearned but never received.

The dagger she held in her hands had small drops of crimson liquid dripping down the hard, silvery blade. Every second or so, a drop of the precious liquid dripped into the river, mixing and tainting it with her sins.

Swallowing back a shaky sigh, she took her gaze away from the river, forcing her legs to move forward. She walked until she arrived at a small tent. It was her home, nothing to be proud of, yet she couldn't have cared less. No one would come to visit anyway. She brushed off her feet and crawled inside, sitting cross-legged on her futon. Her eyes glanced around for the cellular device he gave her. Pressing a few buttons, she held the item to her ear.

"I did as you asked. Our deal is still up, isn't it?"

She heard a grunt from the other side. "Yes. But I have a new job for you which will increase the pay by double.

Her ears perked at the mention of the opportunity of fortune. "What's the situation?"

"We will deliver a dress to your door. Go to the ball held by the Zhao empire and kill the Prince. Take more than a week, and you lose all your money completely."

"Easy. Leave it to me. Though how am I getting there?"

There was a shuffling of papers. "We'll get you a coach with horses to your... place."

"Alright, consider it done."

She pressed the red button and bit her lip.

All her life, they told her to respect the royal blood, no matter what they did, as they were a divine messenger from God. But as every single thing was taken away from her for their uses, she stopped believing in it. They were nothing but snobs that mistreated everyone else because of their heritage. Her blood boiled with the thought of them. She glanced around for her paints. She still had some to wear to make herself more enchanting, but in the end, she decided not to touch the substance. It would only harm her, and it felt fake on her skin. It was late to wonder about what to wear to seduce the Prince, so she dragged herself into bed. She laid her head down, allowing her worries to run far away to the back of her mind.

***

The sun rose, making a yellow-red sky for a new day. Her eyes opened, lidded from being half awake. With a deep breath, she stretched and licked her lips.

"What are boys into these days?"

She went through her daily routine, making herself presentable before getting out of her tent. She made her way to the markets where people were shouting out their bargains for any item they sold. Some were haggling, some were being fooled, but she wasn't here to waste time. The female made a beeline to the store in the alleyway. Creeps and peasants littered its floors, wasting away. They begged her for coins and food, but she strutted right past. At the end of the forsaken alleyway was a tiny stall. There, an elderly woman sat on a stool, wrinkly face in a set scowl until she saw the girl come her way. She immediately smiled and welcomed her.

"Zou Shi-Sun. It has been long."

Shi-Sun flicked her eyes up, her irises giving off an icy gaze. "Do you have what I seek?"

The woman looked at her with a chuckle. "When do I not?"

She laid out jewellery and certain liquids on the table. The sapphire and silver sitting on the table amazed the peasants, but daren't touch the wares. The woman was a witch; they were sure of it. They shied away from her as the girl came closer to inspect the objects.

"Pretty aren't they?" The hag crooned.

"What is the price?" she cut her off, picking one up in her delicate fingers.

The elder's smile turned down. "The one you love will die by your hands. I set no price, but that is the curse of all who wear it."

She smirked, almost scoffing. "I'll take it then."

A wave goodbye and the girl was on her way. It was a while before they would come, so she readied herself. When she had finished, her hair was as soft as mink, her scent of vanilla, her lips like pink rose petals.

She was ready.

The clip-clop of hooves made it clear that they had arrived. Peeking out, Shi-Sun saw the footmen with a gown that seemed as if it was stitched from the bark of holy trees.

"Zou Shi-Sun."

"Yes, I know. Give it to me."

They hand over the dark green gown. It was feather-light, the material supple and smooth. It was easy to slip on. As Shi-Sun came out again, copper slippers were sitting there for her feet. She put them on and got into the carriage, placing her hands in her lap. The ride was long and silent. Her senses were on high alert for anything suspicious. She's had shady customers before, but they seemed to do their jobs. They stopped the carriage as they arrived, opening the door for her.

"You must earn the Prince's trust first. Make sure not to reveal yourself. Most importantly, don't get attached."

Her lips turn up gently. "You're talking like this is my first time. I'll be fine."

She walked out onto the marble staircase, not noticing the glances and gazes she caught. Taking a step into the palace grounds, her jaw hung in awe at the glamorous architecture. People of all the higher classes were talking amongst themselves. Their eyes promptly locked on her figure as she came in. Shi-Sun timidly waved as she walked further inside. They seemed not to surmise anything about her, so they continued back to their activities. Shi-Sun breathed a sigh of relief, deciding to get herself a drink while scanning the floor for the prince. She took a glass of punch, savouring its fruity taste on her tongue.

A folk song played, and people got up and began to dance on the ballroom floor, waltzing gracefully. The girl was so fixated to find the Prince that she didn't notice the male beside her until he tapped her shoulder. She gasped in surprise and stepped back on reflex.

"Ah, I'm sorry I scared you," he said. "I wanted to know if you'd like to dance?"

He outstretched his hand towards her with a small inclination of his head towards the floor.

'Perhaps it would be easier to find him on the dance-floor,' Shi-Sun thought to herself.

A smile made its way to her lips as she nodded, placing her hand in his. The male pulled her close to his chest, a sharp gasp escaped her lips, but she hid it behind a small cough. With his hand resting on her back, they stepped in time with the song. Shi-Sun soon forgot her duties and became entranced with the man she was dancing with. His brown eyes were soft, yet lustful. They brimmed with mischief and flirtatious mirth. He had pale skin coupled with his jet-black hair.

"What is your name, delicate maiden?" He asked.

She blinked twice before replying. "Shi-Sun"

"Ah, beautiful name."

"What about yourself?" She asked.

He hesitated. "Yifu."

She looked down as not to embarrass herself. "Suits you."

He smiled. "What's your business here? Surely a lady like yourself has better things to do?"

The female hums. "I would prefer laying about inside and reading a book by the fire. I'm a woman of simple needs."

Yifu rolled his eyes. "Sure...~"

"What?" Shi-Sun raised an eyebrow at his mocking tone. "Do you not believe me?"

"I mean..." He grinned. "I would expect you to be one to paint your toenails, or put all those deathly chalks on your face."

The female made a distasteful expression. "It feels disgusting to me. I find my face decent enough, so I never put anything on."

Yifu laughed again. “You’re quite different to the other patrons of this ball.”

Shi-Sun smirked to herself. “I’m quite glad about that.”

“Why so?”

Shi-Sun thought carefully about her next sentence, now wishing she hadn’t said that. Yifu answered for her, fortunately enough.

“Actually no, I understand. I too, would rather go bare than become a canvas for toxic powders and paints. I quite value my life, rather than my appearance.”

At that, the girl gave a half-suppressed laugh in response. It had been long since she had a joyous conversation such as this one, and she wanted it to last. Alas, midnight came sooner than she wanted it to. Her ears heard the first strike, and her smile turned to a frown. Yifu had noticed.

"What's wrong?"

She bit her lip. "I... Have to go. I'll come again."

Reluctantly, she ripped herself from the noble’s hold, fast walking to the exit. Yifu looked after her with slight confusion, stalling and just glimpsing at the female's figure, walking out the palace doors and nodding to the guards. He sighed as another girl asked for his hand; he declined and observed the rest of the night.

Shi-Sun's heart was beating fast, irregular and hard. She placed a delicate hand on her chest to calm it down.

What's going on with me?

Shi-Sun queried her body's reactions. It was so unlike herself to feel this way. She heard a small whinny from the horses waiting for her. Shaking her head out of her daze, she walked towards the carriage and got inside, sighing deeply. One of the bandits arched their eyebrow at her.

"What's your problem?" He asked, eyes stern. "Don't tell me you couldn't find the prince?"

Shi-Sun bit the inside of her cheek. "Unfortunately, that was the case. You haven't given me any description of how he looks like."

The bandits realised their error, apologising immediately. "We are sorry. Please do not tell our superior; he will cut off our-"

Shi-Sun stopped them from their babbling. "Don't worry." She smiled. "I understand."

The silent ride back allowed her time to think about the experience she had. Honestly, Shi-Sun hadn't felt this way since she was an adolescent, not used to the thumping in her chest. Maybe her cup was spiked? Perhaps she was hallucinating? It had to be something.

Before she knew it, she was home. A smoky breath left her lips. She'd have to ponder about the male later; sleep was more important now.

***

A new morning, waking up just as she did the day before. However, she found a note posted on the flap of her tent. Shi-Sun ripped it off, bringing it close.

'The Prince has found interest in a woman. Try to get close to her to improve his trust with you.'

Shi-Sun rolled her eyes. The snobby Prince finding another just like him? Of course, she wasn't surprised, but she didn't want to get within five miles radius of this 'girl' he was interested in. She's probably uncultured, spoilt, demanding and had a high-pitched voice. The ravenette sniggered at the mental image in her head.

With a large amount of money, she walked over the bridge towards the marketplace. She didn't go to the old lady this time, but instead, a small child with his hat tipped down on his head. In his mouth, a strand of hay stuck out. He chewed it slowly as the girl came closer.

"Whaddya want this time, lady? You better got some good money for me, 'cause me mistress ain't doing so well." the boy snapped, holding the hay in between his two buck front teeth. Shi-Sun dropped the money on the table. Almost comically, the boy opened his mouth in shock, hay fluttering like a feather to the ground.

"Send her my regards, but first, give me my usual, along with the extra rose scent." She ordered.

He hesitated a moment before hurrying away to make the item. He grabbed the jojoba oil, which sat on another table beside him. The boy then grabbed a few bottles which were filled with essential oils, dripping them in. Finally, he grabbed a bottle of vodka, winking at Shi-Sun, taking a sip, then put the rest into the small, dark bottle. He shook it nicely, handing it to her.

"Our finest yet lady. Thank you for your money!" He said with a grin, hay back in-between his teeth. Shi-Sun smiled, waving him a polite goodbye and made her way home. It was quite late when she came because the bandits had already arrived, waiting with a new gown that was a coloured a leafy green. Bronze slippers sat before her as she after she wore her dress. It felt smooth against her heels. She sprayed the perfume from just now onto her neck, hair and waist. The bandits looked in wonder, never really understanding females and just ushered her into the carriage. The ride was silent again until one of the bandits asked what the perfume was for. Shi-Sun giggled a little bit.

"It's to make me smell nice of course!" She said. "Would you want to dance with a girl that reeks of dead koi?"

The bandit in questioning made an 'o' shape with his mouth, shaking his head. Shi-Sun giggled again. These bandits weren't that bad.

They finally arrived at the palace. She got down, and the bandits held her back by the arm, she turned back to them.

"Our boss told us he doesn't know how the Prince looks like either. No one does. You'll have to find out yourself, unfortunately." They told. She bit the inside of her cheek.

"Alright. This will prove harder than I thought, but I'll still be fine." Her lips curled into a small smile. "Thank you for updating me on the situation."

She held herself high, going into the ballroom and receiving whispers once again. Her eyes went into a squint, scanning for a princely figure with a royal duchess by his side. Instead, she was blocked by someone.

"Hello again, Shi-Sun."

She looked up to see Yifu standing in front of her, looking as grand as ever. His suit was porcelain white with intricate gold patterns etched skilfully onto the silk fabric. A black handkerchief sat in his right pocket, tastefully completing his look.

"Hello, Yifu." The girl greeted him with shifty eyes. As much as Shi-Sun desperately wanted to dance with him, she desperately had to find the Prince too, otherwise...

She'd be dead meat.

"Are you... Looking for someone?" he asked, tilting his head ever so slightly. Shi-Sun gulped but nodded. She had to be vague. She wouldn't want him to think she was yet another girl pining after the Prince.

"I could aid you in your quest."

Gently, he threaded his arm through hers. His warmth flooded the side of Shi-Sun's torso, making her flush with red. Shi-Sun put her head down to hide it.

"So..." Yifu looked to her, brown eyes sparkling like the most precious jewels she had ever seen. "Who are you looking for?"

Shi-Sun's breath stuck in her throat, "Uhm... I'm not sure."

He raised an eyebrow in amusement, "You're... Not sure who you're looking for?"

She nodded. "I was just told that I was supposed to meet a certain noble, but they didn't tell me more than that."

Shi-Sun patted herself on the back mentally for her quick words. Yifu pressed his lips together in thought. While he was silent, Shi-Sun took a moment to glaze over his dazzling features.

His face was... sparkly?

It was covered in glittery dust to enunciate specific characteristics.

Yifu's lips looked soft. Shi-Sun was drawn to them, though she had no idea why. She shook her head as he hummed.

"We could try looking on the floor," he suggested, "maybe you'll know them when you see them."

Shi-Sun rolled her eyes. "Yeah, I think I will."

So once again, she was waltzing in the embrace of Yifu. The gentle folk song played in the background as she scanned for a snobby Prince. Yifu glanced down at her.

"Your perfume smells amazing," he said, taking in a deep breath. "Do you have yours customised too?"

She smiles sheepishly. "You could say that," she mumbled. "I'm just friends with an expert perfumer."

"You must tell me where they are," Yifu demands as he dips her. "I would pay them handsomely for their services."

Shi-Sun didn't reply back. She was too lost in the moment. Her heart was going a million miles an hour, cheeks flushed with colour.

Yifu gazed back, a charming smile danced on his lips.

"Why don't we forget about him tonight?"

He winked slyly as he brought her up again. Shi-Sun had to suppress her merriment.

Alack, midnight's dreaded chimes came floating in her ears, and she had to force herself away.

"Where are you going?" Yifu called, going after her. "The night is young."

Shi-Sun bit her lip.

"Not for us."

With that, makes her way to the exit, bounding like a spring doe into the carriage. The bandits looked at her for an update on her mission. She just kept silent and hung her head. They understood, leaving her be.

Yifu clenched his fist at where the mysterious maiden had been. Something was peculiar about her, she felt...

Dangerous.

Yet, he loved every moment with her. Her wit, her charm, her intellect, it was all so refreshing compared to the other patrons of the party. He sighed deeply as the royal dachshund sidled beside him, sniffing his shoes. Maybe she would come back.

He hoped so anyway.

Shi-Sun was glancing back towards the direction of the palace. Yifu was nothing like the nobles she had known before. He didn't boast about his status, nor did he spit insults towards the servants who were serving them, he actually even thanked them. Shi-Sun shook her head furiously. 'No, no, no, you cannot judge him from the first two nights!' she ordered herself. 'The next night he'll show his true colours. He'll be the same as all of them, just wait.'

But as the bandits collected the dress and left her alone in her home, she could only think good of the noble she had acquainted herself with.

Maybe she had been wrong.

The smell of rain flooded her senses as the pitter-patter from water hitting the tent refuelled a distant memory.

*****

"Father!"

The old man had tears in his eyes as he turned back to his daughter. He gives her a sad smile.

"Don't worry, my dearest child," he said, caressing her cheek with his weathered hand. "I will be back for you."

Her tears did naught to stop falling, so he held her tightly, petting her head.

"塞翁失马，焉知非福, 请记住，我亲爱的。" (Blessings come in disguise, remember that my dear.)

She only cried harder, but it did nothing against the soldiers who took him away. Her father was smiling the whole time as if to try and cease her tears. The coach drove away, leaving the little girl to sob over her last parent.

"Father..."

*****

A sniffle, then a tear, she took a deep breath to steady herself. Her heavy eyelids shut, letting slumber encase her being.

'I will not let them get to me, father.'

***

After a dreamless sleep, Shi-Sun awoke; the whole world was spinning around her. Getting up, she stumbled and tripped. Her legs were numb to the nerves that tried to control them. Nevertheless, she managed to make her way out of the tent and to the river to wash herself. The guppies came and nibbled on her toes, showing off their flashy tails as if to woo her. She giggled, splashing the water on her face as memories from last night floated into her mind. She could feel his hands wrapped around her, guiding her around the dance floor like she was indeed royalty.

Hot tears stung her eyes, making her blink and wipe them away. Why was she crying? It wasn’t like it mattered if he was royalty. The nobles were stuck-up and cruel, they did nothing for the people, only for themselves.

She shook her head. It wasn’t that. Maybe it was because she hadn’t really had fun for a while? She tried to recall the last time she did something for her own entertainment, but try as she might, nothing came to mind. When was the last time she had a proper conversation, or when did she last give a proper laugh from her belly with a smile? When did she last sit down and read a book? When did she last make a joke? The questions flew through her head like bullets, but she couldn’t remember a thing. The guppies had gone, and she was left alone, like she had always been.

The rest of the day went by quickly. After finishing her small pity party and walking back to her tent, she began to write down her observations of the party in a small, worn notebook. Neat calligraphy littered the pages as she wrote. She didn’t even notice the clip-clop of hooves coming to pick her up. One of the bandits came into the tent.

“Shi-Sun?”

She looked up. “Ah, sorry. Give me the dress please.”

The bandit nodded, going out and coming back with a dress coloured red like the hues of sunsets, paired with silver shoes that glittered in the moonlight. She changed into her attire quickly, making herself presentable and trying her best not to waste time. She then joined the bandits in the carriage, sitting down on the plush velvet seats with a weary thump. Her heartbeats were slowly increasing in pace as her unease of seeing Yifu once again came to mind.

It wasn’t like she didn’t want to see him, but she had a job to do, and it would cost her her life if she didn’t come back with results. There was… Also something else, but she couldn’t yet grasp what that feeling was. Before she could ponder more on her feelings, the carriage stopped, the bandits gently escorting her out.

Shi-Sun sighed. This time, there was no dancing with nobles or hanging by the tables and checking the floor, she had to find the prince, no buts. She made her way up the marble staircase, holding up her long gown so she wouldn’t trip whilst trying her best to get to the highest part of the ballroom. Hopefully she’d manage to spot him from this height, him or his snobby princess.

After a long period of bumping into dukes and duchesses, almost tripping on the royal daschund that sniffed her feet and nearly being whisked into a conversation about her ‘royal roots’, she finally made it to the spectating booth. She breathed in relief at the lack of people there. They probably wouldn’t talk to her, letting her look for the prince with ease. They had heard her approaching though, turning their head towards her.

… Gods almighty, her luck was atrocious.

Clothed in a vermillion red suit with platinum ornamentation imprinted on the chest as white gold cufflinks adorned the edge of his sleeves. A soft red shadow had been brushed gently across both his eyelids, making those who looked at him drawn to his eyes. He smiled so brightly that Shi-Sun feared she’d be blinded if she looked too close.

“Ah! Shi-Sun!” He grinned wider. “I haven’t been feeling too well as of late, so I decided not to dance. Were you trying to find me?”

His tone was playful on his last sentence, teasing. It was like they had been friends since forever. Shi-Sun smirked.

“You wished. I’m here to find the noble I was supposed to meet.”

Yifu’s smiled twitched, but kept it on nonetheless. “Would you like my aid?”

“And waste time with you? I apologise, but I must find him.” She huffed. “It is of utmost importance.”

He laughs. “Alright, I won’t waste your time then, I’ll truly help this time.”

She narrows her eyes at the noble. “Promise?”

“Promise.”

She stays mute for a moment before speaking again. “You better keep it.”

He only nods.

The two stand side by side, arms on the rails as they watched the highborns waltz the night away.

“Do you have any information on the noble you’re looking for?” Yifu asks, eyes still watching the dancefloor. Shi-Sun wrung her hands together with a nervous laugh.

“Not at all, I think the only thing I know is that he’s my age.” She rubs the back of her neck. “Even that, I’m not sure of.”

Yifu raised his eyebrows, but only beamed. “Okay… How about Duke Fa?”

He points towards the duke who was being surrounded by other pompous women. Shi-Sun shook her head.

“He’s more noble than a duke.”

Yifu knits his brows together. “Alright, Lord Huang?”

He gestures to the Lord who looked like an intimidating wallflower, sitting on the sidelines and drinking punch. She shook her head again.

“Higher than a lord.”

This made Yifu look away from the floor and stare at Shi-Sun in pure bewilderment.

“Higher than a lord?” He repeated, confusion clear in his expression. “Do you mean the Prince?”

Shi-Sun slowly sighs. No point in hiding the truth any longer. “I didn’t want to make you think I was another girl pining for the ‘mysterious’ Prince. I care naught for his money or for his status, but I must find him nonetheless.” She pressed her mouth into a hard line. “I’d rather not see him at all, he and his father are ungodly royals who don’t deserve to rule.”

Yifu blinked, but stayed still. “Why do you think so?”

Shi-Sun clenched her fists, knuckles turning white. “Why so? I witnessed the King capture the father of a daughter who had lost so much. They were poor, starving, in debt, and yet the King didn’t think to give them mercy or sympathy, he could only think of his greed. He robs others of the same thing, executes others for petty crimes, and you mean to tell me he is a messenger from god?”

She restrained herself from shouting, but her lungs were tight and she was beginning to choke on her words. She took a deep breath.

“Apologies. I don’t like the King, nor do I like his son, as I’m sure he acts the same.”

Yifu didn’t retort or look at her in disgust; in fact, his expression seemed soft with empathy.

“I remember hearing about that. I believe the father is still locked up in the dungeon.”

Shi-Sun froze.

“... What?”

He tilted his head. “The king talks about his prisoners all the time, surely you would have-”

“Which part of the dungeon? Tell me, I haven’t heard!” She said with the speed of a fleeing hare.

Yifu opens his mouth to speak, but the chimes of midnight interrupt him. Shi-Sun curses internally as she begins to turn and leave. Her hand was pulled back and she came face to face with Yifu. His eyes were full of reluctance, worry and desperation.

All Shi-Sun could do was murmur an indistinct ‘sorry’ before tearing away from the noble’s grip like the many times she did before. She strides out of the ball without attracting too much attention, getting into the carriage and placing her head into her hands, body shivering in both rage and relief. The bandits asked nothing, letting the silence soothe her nerves.

As soon as she got home, her restricted tears were let loose. Her elegant form crumbled into a hot, bubbling pot of emotions. She collapsed onto her makeshift bed, continuing to cry into her pillows, at the thought of her father still being alive. She sobbed herself to sleep, energy drained as her dreams were nothing but mush for the next day.

***

The moment she woke up, a fire lit in her eyes. She was determined to save her father. Save him from the torture he had to face for their family’s unfair demise, save him from the royals that looked at him like rubbish and used him for entertainment. She was riled up from the very thought and began working immediately. The plans were dashing through her mind like marlin darting in the salty seas, it was hard to catch them at first, but her brush was fast enough to convey her swift thoughts. The whole page was covered in ink splatters and rushed calligraphy. It looked like chicken scratch when she was done, but she could read it just fine, and that was all she needed.

She began to sew a mask out of some cloth materials she found in her tent, her talent in making crafts since she was young now much appreciated. The ivory mask was decorated in yellow rhinestones she had purchased from the market, and she could only hope that no one would recognise her underneath her eloquent design.

She was ready.

On cue, the bandits had arrived to pick her up. They saw the mask in her hands, but dared not to question her. Golden shoes and white dress, the mask matched like apple to pie.

The ride was the same as usual, silent and tense. However, Shi-Sun’s enraged aura was suffocating. The bandits made no complaint, not one sound. When they arrived, all they said was ‘good luck’ before riding off into the night.

With her head high, jaw taut and lungs rigid despite her rapid, shallow breathing, she strode into the palace, confident and proud. The mask was on her face, covering all her noticeable features and allowing her to get through everyone effortlessly. It was time to find the dungeon.

It was likely that it was underground, but she wasn’t sure how she’d get there without earning at least some notice from the guards, thus in her hand was a well designed sap. The sap was miniscule and fit well in her palm it made quick work of the seemingly intimidating guards. She made sure they looked like they had simply fallen asleep before letting the click clack of her heels fill the empty stairwell. Corridors twisting left and right, she nearly lost herself in the strangely comforting walls. Luckily, she had gotten a map of the palace through one of her many contacts, so getting lost was unlikely unless she was being careless.

A few more unconscious guards later, the dungeon doors were in sight. Her heart pounded while she licked her chapped lips in anticipation. Her feverish need to rescue her father was blinding, so much so, she failed to see the guard coming around the corner.

"Halt!" He bellowed, stopping her in her tracks. Shi-Sun grit her teeth, palms sweaty. She ruined her chance, not only that, but her mission. Readying herself for fight and flight, she clenched the sap and stepped forward.

"Lower your stance, Shang." Came a voice. "She is only lost."

The guard nodded, leaving Shi-Sun alone with the stranger. Overwhelmed with relief, she forgot about them, sighing and concealing her weapon. A hand then clasped her shoulder, causing her jump.

"Pardon me milady," they said, taking their hand away, " I didn't mean to scare you."

They swiveled her around to face them, only to be befuddled by her mask. They suppressed a snort.

"Did you think it was a masquerade, milady?"

Shi-Sun could not answer, she was too engulfed in her incredulity to comprehend the man that stood before her.

He only grew more attractive each time she saw him, especially now with his sneer of a smile that enunciated the playful sparkle in his eyes. He glanced at her expectantly.

"Cat caught your tongue, milady?"

"Yifu…"

His eyes go wide. "How…! Wait-" his face wrinkles in realisation, "Shi-Sun?"

"I thank you for saving me from the guard, I got lost and-"

Her blabbers were shushed by a finger.

"Speak slower. I can hardly fathom your quick speech, let alone understand."

Shi-Sun nods, starting again.

"I just, when you told me the father was in here, I felt so horrible. It may sound silly, but I was caught in a rage, I wanted badly to set d- erm, him free." She said, words practically choking her. Yifu hums.

"I see. I understand how you feel."

He intertwined his hand in hers, leading her back to the stairwell and sitting on the steps.

"I don't like what the emperor does with prisoners." He said, eyes becoming glassy. "I think it's inhumane and cruel, yet I can do nothing. It's so exasperating to think that a family is in power because of their history and their roots, taking advantage of others simply out of their own desire."

He simply smiled at Shi-Sun, removing her mask. "I do hope I can change that perspective though. I want to lead the people fairly, justly. I want to be better than my father."

Shi-Sun had been listening in wonder, until he said father.

"W-wait." She stammered. "You're the prince?!"

His smile was sad. "I do hope this doesn't change our friendship."

Shi-Sun trembled. Her heartstrings had been ripped apart and her whole being was wailing with horror and despair, but she swallowed everything down.

"I-"

The chimes came floating through the air like the call of the morning lark. It screeched Shi-Sun's name with its horrid, twinkly tune, but she couldn't move. Yifu heard the chimes too, looking at her.

"It's time for you to leave, isn't it?"

Shi-Sun only nods, unable to respond. Yifu plays with his fingers for a moment before locking their eyes together.

"Please... Stay on the last night."

With that, his lips pressed onto hers, catching her off-guard. Though she knew it was wrong, she kissed back, as passionate as him. Her head was spinning, heart leaping, lungs wheezing, it was a feeling she wanted to hold forever. When he pulled away, she yanked him back again, unable to bear the weight of leaving. Everything felt so desperate, so wild, like they were animals free in the forest.

Oh, how she wished that was the case.

She finally came up for breath, panting like she had ran miles and miles. With a trembling posture and shaky breaths, she fled. Her slippers threatening to slip on the marble, she sprinted to the carriage waiting for her outside.

"Did you find him?" The bandits asked as she came in. She nods, eyes red but voice strong.

"He shall be dead tomorrow."

They acknowledged her words, riding her home. Upon arrival, she waits for the bandits to be out of earshot before she screams. It was a guttural scream that ripped her throat and tore her larynx to pieces. Her scream made birds fly and animals run. She screamed until her voice was gone, misery bleeding her dry of any want to live. Whimpers pathetic, mewls weak, she passed out on the grass and slept. There was nothing more she could do.

***

She didn’t want to wake up. The smiley sun was virtually mocking her with its promise for a cheerful day. The world ignored her melancholy, it ignored every single teardrop that left her parched eyes. The kiss was burned onto her lips like a brand mark, she could still feel his warmth and his touch. Anyone would have been fine. He could literally be ANYONE else, and she would be rid of this stupid yearning, but NO.

He was the Prince. The Prince she had to kill.

Everything moved too fast. She washed herself in the river, the numbing cold proving to be her next favourite feeling. There was one way to possibly make everything less painful.

So she made her way to the witch in the alleyway.

The bandits came for what would be the last time, giving her the last dress with the last pair of shoes. The yellow gown was light, but it was heavy on her. The glass shoes made her even more fragile than she already was. Ready to snap, ready to break, ready to smash to the ground and leave the world in sparkling shards.

They arrived at the palace. Shi-Sun was about to get off, but the bandit held her back.

“We’re not going to be here for you this time. We are to leave so we don’t get caught. You’ll have to find your own way.” His gruff voice was now meek, unlike his facial features. “There’s a pathway next to the palace that leads to a forest, it would be hard for them to find you in there.”

He patted her shoulder. “You’ve been kind. Take care.”

The others give her glance, a polite farewell, as they rode away. Shi-Sun exhaled, sapphire necklace gleaming. She urged her legs forward, glass shoes clinking on the marble floor. Her trusted weapon was sealed away in her sleeves, set for the mission.

It took only moments to find Yifu, and in that instant, her stomach wanted to hurl all its contents on the floor. They say if you’re patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow. Escape. The very word made her crave for the simplicity and happiness she wasn’t going to get.

His silhouette made its way to her own, lips curled and worry-bitten, probably from their last meeting.

“I’m glad you came again.” He took her hand in his. “Are you going to stay this time?”

Regardless of her whirling feelings, she quipped back. “Depends, how much time is there to waste?”

Yifu chuckles, his laughs bubbly like a glass of champagne. Just like dandelions in the wind, they swayed on the dancefloor, shoes tapping in time with the tranquil music. Their feet stepped onto the fluffy clouds beneath them, aura as light as the water that fell.

Time flies and the chimes were nothing but a broken record at this point. The two look at each other. Shi-Sun wasn’t ready. She wasn’t braced. She wanted not to say goodbye to a man who finally understood her pain and sorrow, yet it was inevitable.

He leaned down, cupping her cheek in his smooth palm, and the stars collided. The kiss was like drinking salted water, you drink and your thirst increases. Her eyes burned, but she readied the dagger.

“DO IT!” Came a yell.

The kiss was broken and Shi-Sun felt her chest being punched. Her first reflex was to stab back, but immediately she regretted her decision. Screams as blood smeared on both of their hands.

“I’m… Sorry.”

Yifu gurgles, blood coming to his mouth. Shi-Sun’s vision was blurring, but she could see his remorse crystal clear. She heard footsteps coming as she slumped to the floor. She lifted her head up to only cry more.

“Fa..ther…?” She croaked.

“Look at you. Still so pathetic and weak.” The elder spat on her dying form with disgust. ��Luckily I got rid of you before they knew you were that fool’s daughter. Now I get to rule.”

His voice… It was familiar, but it was so hard to think with the wound feeling like needles blossoming in her chest.

“I sent you to kill him, but little did you know I had hired him to kill you! Now you die and I am the emperor, as I had planned to be.” He then barked. “Guards! Clean up this putrid mess.”

With everything fading, her heart broken and the world turning the wrong way, Shi-Sun held her beloved’s hand like it was her lifeline.

Her effort all to cinders.

#all to cinders #original work #original story #proud #cinderella inspired #assassins

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whysperingwoods · 7 years ago

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Spring Cleaning (Witch Edition)

I don’t celebrate Ostara, so instead of posting about that I decided to instead post my checklist of things I do every spring to cleanse my home and start fresh.

The first step before you start any magical cleaning of your home is to do a good physical cleaning. There are many cultures for which spirtual wellbeing is very connected to your physical space, so I really don’t suggest skipping this step. Plus, it will make the rest of the steps a lot easier if you don’t have to navigate around piles of clothes and dirty dishes.

If your place is in a really bad situation, I recommend starting off with Unfuck Your Habitat’s Emergency Cleaning guide. If you’re coming out of a depression lull and your apartment or room has gotten extremely messy, it will give you manageable steps so the clean doesn’t feel quite so overwhelming. They also have a great guide to Spring Cleaning for Actual People on their website (or you can get the pdf here). (I’m not in any way affiliated with this website, I just like what they do).

Sources: The content below is a mixture of French-Canadian folk magic, personal gnosis, and rituals from ‘The Magical Household’ by Scott Cunningham and David Harrington.

1. (Re)arrange furniture. Take each room on its own and look at it from every corner, rather than only from the places you usually see it from (doorway, desk, couch, etc). There should be room to breathe and allow the energy to circulate freely. A good starting point is to find the focal point of your room, and orient the rest of your furniture accordingly. I usually point the head of my bed to the North and place it going in the same direction as the lines on the floor.

2. Salt the floors. This is honestly one of my favourite parts about doing a good home cleanse. Your floors should already be cleaned up from your mundane spring cleaning. It’s easier to do it one room at a time. Sprinkle the salt on the floors and especially in the corners. Leave the salt to sit so they can absorb any negative energies in the room, and once you feel it’s been long enough sweep it up with a broom. Cunningham’s book says that it’s common practice to have a separate broom for mundane than for magical cleaning, but I personally prefer to use the same broom for both. When you are sweeping you want to do it in any direction that is not towards the main entrance of your home. I sweep towards the back of the house, and once you’ve collected all the salt into a dustpan throw it outside (preferably not on your own property). An optional additional step would be to mop the floors again, but instead of using a cleaner use warm water, Lavender essence, and a small amount of (your own) urine. In folk practices this marks your spiritual and physical territory. It might seem gross, but this was (and still is) fairly common practice for many witches. Urine is sterile, and you should only be using a small amount so there will be no lingering odour (if you can smell it, you’re using WAY too much).

3. Ward windows and doors. If you use wards regularly, any protection ward will do. My windows and doors are all painted white, so I use white chalk on them. If you don’t use wards normally and you’re not sure what to put on there, any symbol that to you means protection will work just fine. Pentagrams are a common one for pagan witches, crosses are also fairly common.

4. Additional protection. These are extra things I like to do for safety due to the entities I work with and the experimental nature of my craft:

- Dry a bunch of dill and hang it above the entrance to your home - Hang a bag of salt onto each door handle - Hang a string of garlic in the kitchen - Place a knife under the bed - Place a whole onion under the sink (this needs to be changed out when it goes bad) - Light sandalwood incense in each room (you can do them one at a time if you only have one incense burner) - Hide a witch bottle

5. Cauldron ritual. This step closes the spring cleaning for me and acts as an activation for all the wards and protections that have been placed in the home. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add a tablespoon of vanilla, juice from a lemon, and one stick of cinnamon. Let them simmer for a few minutes while you finalize your ritual. If you use incantations or call upon gods, this is where you’d do your thing and incorporate whatever elements you prefer. When this is done, I pour the water (remove the cinnamon stick) into bowls and leave them overnight as offerings for house and local spirits. They can be discarded the next morning however you want.

#witchcraft #ostara #witchblr #witches of tumblr #baby witch #new witch #folk magick #trad witch #ritual #spring cleaning #grimoire

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sanma-tetsurou · 8 years ago

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pastry chef! zhong chenle!

you can find the members' i've written at #worker au!!

•one of the sweetest cutest pastry chef you've ever seen

•chenle's favs in the cafe are probably the cakes especially green tea cake

•enjoys working in the back room but he's clumsy af and the others have to look after him so he doesn't burn himself with the oven

•smells like vanilla essence he nearly accidentally spills every time

•wears that little brown apron covered with flour that makes him look real cute

•there's always bits of flour covering his face and it makes him extra cute when he smiles and the customers just nearly can't take his cuteness

•i think chenle's favourite job to do is decorating the cake like he gets to use as much frosting and cream as he likes and sprinkle just whatever onto the cake as long as it looks nice

•can make candy like taffy, toffee and all those and he can make them into pretty things like flowers

•once he made a cake and put a candied rose on it and was displayed the cake was sold in about five minutes with people arguing about which one of them gets the cake and chenle didn't make it again bc he doesn't want the customers to fight

•one day you just wandered aimlessly down the same street where the cafe was since you had nothing to do

•you initially wanted to sneak into your parents' extra car for a drive but then you didn't want to risk your life so you gave up lol

•while walking past the blocks you found a little signboard standing beside a colourful framed glass door, the daily menu scribbled with colourful chalks and cute drawings were drawn by the side so you entered

•the interior was also just like the board by the door, all colourful in pastel colours in a aesthetic way and a display case showcasing the treats

•there were lots of people in the cafe at an unusual time which was like three in the evening where people were either at work or just staying home but you didn't bother it much and went to order a cake

•that was the hardest choice in your life at that moment

•the cakes were all decorated beautifully with the cake's main ingredient's colour without like a whole bowl of cream just simply and they were all your favourite flavours

•someone behind you grumbled about you taking too long and you just decided to ask the friendly looking boy standing behind the counter waiting for you for a cake suggestion whose name tag says chenle

•for a moment you just stared at him, marvelling at his cute face which just screams that he's the epitome of cuteness and the flour on his face and the small baker hat didn't help with you gushing internally about his adorableness

•chenle - "hello?" he says as he waved a in front of your eyes and you snapped out of it and composed yourself

•you - "um can you give me a recommendation for a cake? it's my first time here and the people behind me a shooting lasers at me" and he laughs at your words

•chenle - "sure how about the green tea slice? it's not too sweet and i guess it'll heal some of the holes from the lasers at your back"

•the two of you laughed and you went with his pick which was ready within a moment then quickly paid to avoid anymore looks from them

•you took a seat at a table for two near the counter and you could see the inside of the kitchen through your position through the small glass window??

•there inside was the boy serving you just now, working hard on something he was pulling (and you found it amazing that he could change from serving people cakes and pulling candy just a minute ago)

•you just stared in fascination as he continued pulling them until they form a shape and began pressing and poking them to add the details to it and it was just amazing how pieces of the sticky sugary stuff can be made into something so beautiful

•because of your curiosity in the candy pulling you began to frequent the cafe and chenle always serves you then runs back to the kitchen immediately

•you've seen him make little people figures that were set in the top layer of the display case and boii were they gone fast luckily you bought one right before the mob entered and you studied the candy and certified that he's a prodigy

•obviously through all the visits and him serving you'd know more than a thing of two about chenle and even got his number but none of you invited the other to hang out or anything just some memey chats in the middle of the night

•so like a month and a half gone by with you going to the place nearly every day makes you question actually why you're always there

•and boom you found out it was because meme boy invaded your mind and you have a crush on him

•you didn't dare to say anything so you just continued acting like how you usually were with him

•it felt kinda weird tho bc when he's out at the counter for even a little while the customers flirt with him (not that they don't with the others) and it makes you feel jumbled instead of hurt bc you have no idea that you're feeling jealous (it's your first crush I guess)

•recently you found him staying in the kitchen more making the same-lookinf candy for a few days straight

•one day you received a message from him saying : "can you stay until six?"

•you remembered that that was the cafe closing time and thought it was a weird time but you agreed nonetheless

•soo fast forward to that time you just sat there awkwardly as his co-workers aka dreamies were cleaning up the cafe until jeno brought you to the kitchen where chenle was

•right before jeno leaves you and chenle he shouts smth like chenle owns him a week worth of fries

•so you two awkwardly stand silently until chenle takes a deep breath and starts to talk

•chenle - "um (y/n) here"

•he gives out a bouquet of roses, candy roses glittering in all their might under the light and you just gushed over the beauty of it

•you - "i love these!! but what's the occasion?? our birthdays are over"

•chenle - "i like you"

•you just looked up at him seeing his blush on his cheeks and your mind tried to process his words

•once the words finally sink in you set down the bouquet and throw your arms around him pulling him into a hug and chenle could barely comprehend what was happening

•you - "what took you so long to say it??"

•chenle - "h-huh you k-knew?? about me liking you? the roses took me a long time to make if it weren't for them i wouldn't even wait this long"

•you - "then you don't have to make them"

•chenle - "but i want to make you feel loved" basically he's a cheese ball as he continued to talk and to stop him you had to kiss him on the cheek

•"i like you too candy boy"

thanks for reading!!

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phoneboothproductions-blog · 8 years ago

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‘Put a Saddle on Your Universe’: One Guy’s Uneducated Thoughts on Purpose vs. Choice in ‘Rick and Morty’

SPOILERS AHEAD FOR RICK AND MORTY S3E9 “THE ABC’S OF BETH”

I want to talk about season 3 episode 9 of the insanely successful sci-fi comedy series Rick and Morty. In the episode, entitled “The ABC’s of Beth”, Rick’s daughter Beth finds out that Froopy Land, which she originally thought to be her imaginary childhood fantasy land, was actually a real place constructed by her genius scientist father to keep her occupied. This discovery comes with a number of realizations, some involving cross-breeding and cannibalism (Do you really expect any less from this show at this point?); but the biggest bombshell comes when Beth learns that Rick created this imaginary realm not to avoid parenting responsibilities, but because Beth was, in his words, “a scary fucking kid”, and he felt that she would have been a danger to “every less-than-polite little boy or gullible animal that might cross [her] ‘socio’ path”. Beth is resistant at first, but soon the aforementioned cross-breeding/cannibalistic plotline pans out in such a way to convince her that Rick is absolutely right: she’s as cold and indifferent as her father. This realization leads us to this scene:

youtube

This clip has been driving me nuts since this episode aired. In a conversation less than two minutes long, this show manages to both present and address, in a satisfying manner, a pretty big question when it comes to existence: if you were presented the choice to either stay in your current life, or go out into the world and live an entirely different one consequence-free, what would you do? What makes this idea and this entire episode great is that it’s a question with no answer. Rick doesn’t tell Beth what to do. He gives her advice based on his experience. He makes it clear that whether she chooses to be replaced by a clone, or stay with the family, both options are logical and understandable. It’s her choice. As Rick says, “...no matter what you choose, you’re finally gonna chill the fuck out.” At the end of the episode, we don’t know what she chose. And I think that’s the point.

(Granted, this could ALL be undone in the season finale on Sunday, but as of this writing, the answer has not been revealed.)

Now, a disclaimer before we go any further. My professional experience with philosophy does not extend past two introductory courses in college, and honestly my Rick and Morty experience isn’t much better. I tend to be resistant to pop culture phenomenons due to some misplaced sense of hipster-like superiority, and because of that I was really only brought on board just barely in time to be caught up for Season 3. Much like Rick, I’m an asshole, but I’m not oblivious to my shortcomings. So if something in here doesn’t add up or misses some greater point, just chalk it up to my idiocy. These are just the rambling thoughts of an overthinking fan.

The show, and specifically the character of Rick Sanchez, seems to be built pretty heavily on the idea of nihilism; that is, the belief that life and the universe are completely devoid of objective meaning. This is illustrated and even explicitly stated in several episodes. For example, in the episode “Close Rick-counters of the Rick Kind” from season 1, Morty, presented with the knowledge of infinite Ricks and Mortys from infinite universes, questions whether that devalues his relationship to Rick or elevates it since it’s strong enough to sustain itself over so many different realities. Rick’s response is to quickly debunk Morty’s theories by revealing that Ricks needs Mortys to camouflage their intelligent brainwaves, thus ridding the duo’s relationship of any meaning. Morty subsequently becomes upset about this loss of meaning, only for Rick to point out that it’s Morty’s choice to take it personally.

This could very easily be seen as a metaphor for the universe itself under the guise of nihilism. We may see something in the world that seems to have inherent meaning, such as the intricacies of nature or the idea of love, but in the end, it can all be explained away logically, and stripped of its meaning. Indeed, nature’s complexity, as well as the reason we feel love, can be dismissed as accidental results of evolution; ways for the planet and humans to adapt and survive. If you take this way of thinking far enough, you can rob anything of its supposed meaning until you’re left with a vast, meaningless void that is our universe. For much of the series, we’re led to believe that this is where Rick parks his outlook on life. He recognizes the utter pointlessness of trying to have a meaningful life, so he does the opposite, constantly trying to indulge in as much pleasure as possible. The only time meaning enters the equation is with the inclusion of Morty.

In the example I mentioned before, Morty ultimately decides to assign his own meaning to his and Rick’s relationship, and tries to demand that Rick does the same. Rick does finally give in, and tells Morty that since he’s “the Rickest Rick”, it would make sense that he has “the Mortyest Morty”. This is an answer which he very clearly doesn’t give a lot of thought to, and seems to be given solely to quell the upset Morty who won’t shut up. This is characteristic of much of the series; Rick only allowing meaning to exist in his life when forced into it by someone else, usually Morty, but also at times Summer and Jerry. The one character who’s been largely absent from these deeper moments, and who up until now has barely been involved in Rick’s adventures...is Beth.

Beth, in a weird way, has become one of the show’s most intriguing characters to me. The daughter of a super-intelligent mad scientist forced into an unhappy marriage due to a pregnancy, who then has her mad scientist father reenter her life several years later. It really feels like there should be more to Beth than this largely typical suburban mom with which we’ve been presented until now. Thus, “The ABC’s of Beth” was a very welcome episode to me. I wanted to see what happened when Beth dove headfirst into her father’s world. Is she just as intelligent as her old man? What was her childhood like with Rick as a father? How does someone with that background end up in such an ordinary vanilla family life? Well, luckily, this episode shed some much-needed light on Beth’s backstory, elevating her from a character I really wasn’t that invested in, to perhaps one of the show’s best.

Beth laments in several episodes about being robbed of her choice when Jerry got her pregnant with Summer. The life she’s lived since then has not been of her own choosing whatsoever, but rather out of necessity to provide for her children. This is demonstrated in the episode “Rixty Minutes”, where she gets to see an alternate reality where she never had Summer or Morty, and she’s living out her perfect life. In the end, however, she realizes that, even in this ideal world, she still ends up falling in love with Jerry. This episode hints at the idea that, given the choice between perfection and her current reality, she might just choose the latter. Of course, a lot has happened since that season 1 episode, including a pretty cold and heartless divorce from Jerry, so it weirdly makes sense to bring up this question again, and “The ABC’s of Beth” does so rather explicitly.

Which brings us back to the clip I presented at the top of the article. Beth had to realize and accept who she was: a sociopath too smart to care about purpose, just like her father. Rick is quick to point out that, “When you know nothing matters, the universe is yours”. Once again, Beth is offered a choice; a glimpse into what life could be like without having to be tied down by “the kids, Jerry, [her] job, and...ABC’s The Bachelor”. The difference here, as Rick says, is that she now realizes that she’s too smart to believe in a higher purpose. Or as Beth herself says rather bluntly, “I’m all out of excuses to not be who I am.”

This is where existential, or optimistic, nihilism comes in, which follows the backbone of nihilism; that there is no objective meaning in the universe, but puts an optimistic spin on it by pointing out that because the universe has no meaning, it’s up to the individual to apply their own meaning. In other words, if you accept the pointlessness and chaotic absurdity of reality, it gives you the ultimate excuse to live life however you want to, knowing you are fully in control. This is the “gift shark”, so to speak, that Rick presents to Beth. She can agree to be cloned, go out and fulfill her dreams, and come back when she feels like it, and that’s perfectly okay because it’s her choice. Or, she can stay with the family and change nothing about her life, and that is also perfectly okay for the same reason. It is Beth’s decision alone. Nobody, not even Rick, has any business telling her what she should choose. She is, in essence, putting “a saddle on [her] universe”.

Thus, the moral of the episode, as I understand it, is that whatever you do in life, make sure it’s your choice, because the only person capable of creating meaning in your life is you. If you want to go out, work your ass off, and carve out a life of wealth and power, you should go do that. But I really appreciate that the episode throws in the other side of that coin, which so much pop culture fails to represent; the idea that it’s equally okay to “stay, and luxuriate in a life you finally know you’ve chosen”. Society will always want you to go with the status quo and achieve some universally agreed upon benchmark for “success”. If that path is something that resonates with you, go for it. But for everybody else who feels hollow and empty following such a common way of life, you should be allowed to create your own definitions of success and meaning. We don’t know what Beth ultimately chose, and that’s okay. Her decision is hers, and your decision is yours.

But, hey, as I said, the next episode could make everything I just wrote here completely irrelevant. This series is absolutely unpredictable from episode to episode, but that’s just part of the insane, chaotic joy that Rick and Morty brings to the table, and I’m okay with that.

Thanks for reading! :)

#rickandmorty #purpose #choice #beth #smith #sanchez #squanch #abcsofbeth #froopyland

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ultramarcypan · 8 years ago

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Shin Soukoku Week Day Three: Bittersweet

Characters/Pairings: Atsushi Nakajima, Akutagawa Ryuunosuke, Shin Soukoku

Summary: There really should be a law regarding how much cream and sugar you can add to coffee before it becomes illegal.

Prompt: Coffee Shop

There’s a new employee at the coffee shop about five minutes from Akutagawa’s college campus. Normally, he wouldn’t notice something so trivial, but this new employee stands out against the other average people in his life. His hair is white (it’s dyed, it has to be) with a black streak running down one side. His eyes are the strangest color of brown, almost an amber color, actually, and he’s pale, almost as pale as Akutagawa himself.

On top of that, his personality drives Akutagawa up the wall. He’s nice, too nice, always smiling at everyone and greeting them politely no matter how ornery they may act towards him. Atsushi (at least, Akutagawa is assuming this is the kids name; it’s what is written on his name tag after all) also has a tendency to apologize for anything he does which he perceives to be an inconvenience which, as far as Akutagawa can tell, is almost everything he does as ‘sorry’ seems to be his favorite word.

And, even worse than all that, he murders the coffee he drinks.

Since Akutagawa is a college student who subsists mostly on caffeine and coffee fumes, he spends most of his free time hunkered down in the coffee shop with his laptop, hating himself for every academic choice that has led him to his present situation. And because he spends most of his time in the coffee shop, he’s usually around whenever Atsushi goes on his break.

Every break is the same. Atsushi pulls a brown paper bag with his lunch from under the counter and makes himself a cup of coffee to go with it.

Every time, Akutagawa watches in silent horror as he dumps three heaping spoonfuls of sugar into his coffee, followed by a very liberal amount of french vanilla creamer. Akutagawa doesn’t understand the point of having coffee if Atsushi is just going to reduce it to what is, in essence, just sugared milk.

He knows that he stares every time this happens, and that Atsushi is very much aware of him doing so, but he can’t stop himself. What the other is doing is an abomination against everything that coffee stands for. He figures that there’s no harm in what he’s doing if he keeps his mouth shut, however, so he’ll stare as much as he damn well wants and silent judge the other to his heart’s content.

This is a great plan until Atsushi himself ruins it. Another strike against him, as far as Akutagawa is concerned.

That particular day, his break starts like usual and he begins the terrible task of mutilating innocent coffee. Akutagawa is mourning the loss of the caffeine when Atsushi glances over at him, meeting his gaze head on.

“Am I bothering you by making my drink?” He asks. “Because everyday, you look at me like I’ve called you every dirty name in the book even though I’ve never spoken to you except to take your order.”

Akutagawa’s snark rears its head in before he can stop himself. He chalks it up to having to deal with Dazai for years. “I’m just wondering how you still have working taste buds when you drink that garbage everyday.”

Atsushi raises an eyebrow at him. “Says the guy who orders nothing but black coffee everyday of his life.”

Almost instantly, Akutagawa’s hackles raise. “That’s how coffee was meant to be consumed!” He snaps. “If you want something sweeter, go drink a milkshake or something.”

Atsushi gives him a smile, only this one is nothing like the polite, generic one he gives to customers. This one has an edge to it, and Akutagawa finds himself intrigued by it. “I don’t think I will,” he says. He settles down in the chair opposite of Akutagawa, placing his drink down almost definitely next to Akutagawa’s own black cup.

“I don’t remember inviting you to sit with me,” he says, leaning back in his chair.

“And I don’t remember asking you to insult my drink preferences, so I figure this makes us even.” Atsushi responds, folding his hands neatly in front of him. Akutagawa doesn’t have a rebuttal for that so he has no choice but to bite back all of his remaining protests.

“Well then,” he drawls, shutting his laptop. “You might as well entertain me if you’re going to prevent me from working.”

“I’d be delighted to,” Atsushi says, his smile widening.

It turns out that Atsushi is also a student at the same university that Akutagawa goes to, only he’s a freshman--a full year below Akutagawa himself. He’s undeclared as of right now, which Akutagawa can sympathize with. Atsushi works so that he can afford groceries, and is only able to attend college because he busted his ass in high school getting scholarships. Akutagawa doesn't tell him, but his respect for Atsushi rises significantly after he finds this out. Atsushi seems to know anyhow; he has an uncanny knack for knowing exactly what Akutagawa is thinking at any given point in time.

Somehow (and Akutagawa maintains that he never once gave his permission on this matter) Atsushi joining him on his breaks becomes the norm. He’ll also never say out loud that he’s starting to look forward to the other sitting with him for his fifteen minute break; there’s a lot more to the freshman than the polite exterior he presents to the world, as it turns out. They have a lot more in common than Akutagawa would have ever suspected, which both surprises and pleases him. It’s rare for him to find someone that he can tolerate for more than five minutes at a time, and he knows he isn’t exactly the most friendly person to be around. Atsushi takes all his sarcasm and his bad temper in stride though, letting it roll off his back like it doesn’t matter.

Except when Akutagawa insults his coffee. It’s the one thing that Atsushi refuses to take lying down.

“You are so wrong on this,” Atsushi declares, after a good ten minutes of Akutagawa eyeing his drink like it’s done him personal wrong. It may as well have, as far as he’s concerned.

“Yeah well, there’s your opinion and then there’s the right opinion.”

Atsushi lets out an exasperated sigh, complete with an eyeroll. “Alright,” he says, and something in his tone sets off warning bells in Akutagawa’s head. “There’s only one way to settle this.” Before Akutagawa can react to that statement, Atsushi has snatched up Akutagawa’s drink from where it was sitting in front of him, simultaneously pushing his own towards the other.

“What the fu--” Atsushi shushes him.

“We take a sip of each other's drink, just to see what it’s like.” He says. “This may be the only way I can get you to see the light that is sweet coffee.”

“Oh hell no,” Akutagwa snarls, grabbing at his pilfered drink. Atsushi leans back, avoiding him easily.

“Careful,” he warns. “You don’t want me to spill your precious caffeine on accident, do you?”

“Is that a threat?”

“It’s a promise,” Atsushi says, voice as sweet as the coffee he chokes down. “Now, are you going to behave and try this my way? I promise I don’t have cooties or anything.”

Since Atsushi doesn’t seem the least bit inclined to return his drink at any point in the near future unless he plays along, Akutagawa reluctantly picks up Atsushi’s drink. “On the count of three then?”

“One,” Atsushi begins, “two, three!” Both of them take a small sip of the others drink.

The effect is instantaneous. Both of them cough and sputter, making twisted faces of displeasure as they forcibly swallow down the sip they took. “How do you drink this?” Atsushi gasps out. “It’s so bitter!”

“Like you can taste anything past how sweet yours is!” Akutagawa feels personally wronged by the sugary aftertaste in his mouth. “You aren’t human, you can’t be.”

“This may have been a mistake,” Atsushi admits, sticking his tongue out. “But I have an idea on how to fix it.”

“Another bright plan?” Akutagawa is currently fighting the urge to scrub his tongue with a napkin. “Go on then, I don’t see how it could get worse.”

The next thing he’s aware of, Atsushi's face is very close to his own, and then there is a pair of lips on his own and Atsushi is kissing him. It’s a chaste brief kiss, not really much more than the brush of lips against lips, but it is enough for Akutagawa to taste his own bitter coffee lingering on Atsushi’s mouth.

The other pulls away, pink in the face and suddenly unable to meet Akutagawa’s eyes. For a moment, both of them are lost for what to say or do next. Akutagawa is the first to recover.

He clears his throat and Atsushi jumps. “Your shift ends in another thirty minutes, right?”

“Uh….yeah.” Atsushi looks confused.

“Good.” Akutagawa digs in his bag for a pen, scrawling something down on the side of Atsushi’s cup, which is still on his side of the table. “I’m going to go drop my stuff off at my dorm; text me when you finally do get off and we can continue this...ah….discussion over the proper way to drink coffee over dinner.”

“Are….” Atsushi starts, realization dawning on him slowly. “Are you asking me out on a date?”

Akutagawa shakes his head, and Atsushi’s shoulders slump for a moment. “I’m not asking, I’m demanding it from you.” He smiles as Atsushi looks back up at him hopefully. “I’m just getting even for you kissing me, after all.”

Atsushi laughs, and Akutagawa can forgive the lingering sweetness in his mouth at such a pleasant sound.

#shinsoukokuweek #shin soukoku #akutagawa ryuunosuke #atsushi nakajima #bsd #bungou stray dogs #marcy types

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allthingwomancare · 6 years ago

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New Post has been published on Leo Passion

New Post has been published on https://leopassion.com/best-frederic-malle-perfume-for-men/

Top 6 Best Frederic Malle Perfume For Men - The Standard Style Scent For Gentlemen 2019

The full name of the perfume brand is Edition de Parfums Frederic Malle, but people often refer to it as Frederic Malle – the name of the founder of the brand. He is a family artist who has a tradition associated with perfumery: in which Frederic Malle’s grandfather is the founder and inventor of the first fragrance for the prestigious perfume brand. Christian Dior, while Frederic Malle’s mother also holds the position of artistic director in the Christian Dior perfume group.

After more than 15 years of experience in the perfume industry, Frederic Malle in 2000 officially gave birth to his brainchild with the brand Niche named Editions de Parfum, pairing with other niche perfumes at the time like Serge Lutens, Annick Goutal … All of the scents are of the highest standard that Frederic Malle has revered. It is the perfume that does not need to follow the masses to please the market but most importantly to praise the true value of the scent.

Contents

Ultimate Guide to Top Best Frederic Malle Perfume For Men

How to choose the right Perfume

How to make your fragrance last longer

How to apply fragrance when your body has a lot of sweat

Review Top Frederic Malle Cologne For Men 2019

1. Frederic Malle French Lover

2. Vetiver Extraordinaire

3. Frederic Malle Dries Van Noten Par

4. Frederic Malle Tes Bras Dans

5. Frederic Malle Angéliques Sous La Pluie

6. Frederic Malle Geranium Pour Monsieur

Ultimate Guide to Top Best Frederic Malle Perfume For Men

[table id=56 /]

How to choose the right Perfume

If you don’t know, please read here

How to make your fragrance last longer

If you don’t know, you can read some fragrance guide here

How to apply fragrance when your body has a lot of sweat

You worry about the body has too much sweat, some instructions will help a improve your situation. Please read here

Review Top Frederic Malle Cologne For Men 2019

1. Frederic Malle French Lover

French Lover perfume is a perfume bottle of fragrant wood for men and was launched in 2007. The creator of this fragrance is Pierre Bourdon.

The fragrance begins with a bitter taste of galbanum and wood, though not mentioned in the scent, but you can also feel a little of the laurel tree. After about 20 to 30 minutes, passionate but delicate vetiver aroma appeared with oud. Wood notes are somewhat dry but very pleasant. The sweet aromas in French Lover have been soothed and leave a wonderful scent but at the same time exudes elegance, sophistication and modernity. This is definitely not a gentle fragrance, but it combines well with the natural scent on your body, like wearing a second skin with the scent of wood, oud, vetiver.

Design the shape of the cylindrical body, made from transparent glass to see the pale yellow perfume inside. The cylindrical bottle cap has a black color suitable for the black ring around the body of the bottle, creating a unified whole, simple but equally luxurious.

French Lover is a passionate masculine fragrance that creates a charm for men. The scent brings a certain warmth from spices and wood but the subtlety in perfume scent makes it recognizable anywhere. This is the scent you can use at most times of the year with a fragrance of up to 12 hours.

Check Best Price Try Sample Here

2. Vetiver Extraordinaire

Vetiver Extraordinaire perfume of Frederic Malle brand is a perfume bottle of Wood incense line – Oriental for men and was launched in 2002. Dominique Ropion is the person who refined the fragrance of this perfume bottle.

The scent begins with the citrus aroma is dry but briefly present, before the spice aroma appears in to make the fragrance quite warm and diffuse. After the aroma gradually subsides, the aroma carries a moist taste of moss, wood and vetiver and the fragrance is almost unchanged from this moment until the end. If you really like grass incense, then it is an ideal choice for you.

The scent of Vetiver Extraordinaire really accentuates the natural characteristics of cardinal grass rather than blending with sweeter and brighter flavors. Along with orange flavor, Vetiver Extraordinaire is a clean, fresh and very masculine scent. With great perfection, this is definitely a perfect perfume bottle for a strong and dynamic man.

Check Best Price Try Sample Here

3. Frederic Malle Dries Van Noten Par

The perfume Dries Van Noten par Frederic Malle of the Frederic Malle brand is an oriental wood fragrance product for both men and women. Dries Van Noten par Frederic Malle was launched in 2013.

The fragrance of the perfume opens with a mixture of spices (saffron, nutmeg, cloves) and is refreshed with lemon and bergamot. Middle notes are made of Mysore sandalwood with jasmine and other wood notes: patchouli, wood, violet. Oriental scent leaves on the skin revealing vanilla aroma, Peruvian aromatherapy and white musk as well as sacrasol (a sulfur-flavored and sweet flavor)

Dries Van Noten par Frédéric Malle is a favorite and easy to use product. A charming and passionate fragrance, suitable for both men and women with the aromas of spices and wood. In addition, the perfume has a very good sillage fragrance. This perfume is like your second skin suitable for cold days.

Check Best Price Try Sample Here

4. Frederic Malle Tes Bras Dans

Tes Bras Dans perfume of Frederic Malle brand is a new perfume product with flower – wood – musk incense for both men and women. Launched in 2008. The creator of this product is Maurice Roucel designer. Maurice Roucel and Frédéric Malle have collaborated to create Musc Ravageur in 2000 – a luxurious oriental vanilla fragrance. In a style that combines completely different scents, Dans tes bras (“In your arms”) also carries a sexiness from cashmere, wood, and an amber aroma that covers the incense. gentle flowers.

The familiar feminine violet aroma notes are refined to give a soft, earthy feel with a fragile mist of heliotrope’s chalk. The taste of the sweet grass of patchouli along with the wood incense creates the image of a landscape of heavenly paradise and is more and more gorgeous and blooming with each passing minute. The incense base adheres to the base of the base and the musky soft musk adheres to your skin for hours with a warm taste.

Tes Bras Dans is a product that possesses charm and elegance in a masculine scent, as elegant as a man when he is strong, elegant and gentle, ready to steal the hearts of any girl. Great scent in spring, autumn with long lasting from 7 hours to 12 hours.

Check Best Price Try Sample Here

5. Frederic Malle Angéliques Sous La Pluie

The perfume Angéliques Sous La Pluie of Frederic Malle brand is a perfume bottle of wood incense – grass – musk for both men and women and was launched in 2000. Jean-Claude Ellena is the one make up the scent of this perfume bottle.

The scent of perfume starts with the aroma of pepper, with the addition of coriander and juniper fruit. This is the part that creates the feeling of the rain, a little bitter, sharp and cool. Fragrant coriander splits the pepper flavor with the rest of the perfume. At this stage, perfume carries the masculine essence of traditional perfume bottles. A classic musk scent with sweet wood notes stirred the fragrance and changed the characteristics of the perfume completely. The scent of perfume brings the feeling of summer rain that is different from the persistent winter rains.

Angéliques Sous La Pluie is a perfect choice for any man or woman to use in spring or summer in the style of Jean-Claude Ellena. Each time you use it, you’ll find something new hidden in the perfume.

Check Best Price Try Sample Here

6. Frederic Malle Geranium Pour Monsieur

The inspiration for Frederic Malle’s new perfume comes from the moment he created the Anterenea soap, which reminded him of the ancient and luxurious soaps of his childhood. When creating the above soap sample. He noticed the essence of geraniums, which gives a pure and delicate feel. Pour Monsieur Geranium was launched in 2009.

Along with the cooperation of Dominique Ropion, the fragrance of perfume used masculine notes and sweet fragrance around the main notes – geraniums. The purity and lingering freshness of the perfume is due to the fragrance of geraniums imported from China, along with the compound rhodinol (extracted from the flower itself), mixed with star anise and mint. The combination of spices notes bring elegance and masculinity (cloves and cinnamon) along with sandalwood and a new white musk to help prolong the freshness and sophistication.

Geranium Pour Monsieur is a new era perfume bottle that uses natural ingredients with the refined way of the digital age. Perfumes are definitely an option for men who are looking for a trendy freshness.

Check Best Price Try Sample Here

If you have the spirit to once touch Frederic Malle, perhaps you have a strong love for the art of enjoying perfumes, be proud of it when you can escape temptation from frivolous fragrance.

#frederic malle perfume reviews #frederic malle signature

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