#mystical pack of potions

[5ecardaday]

Arcanatober Day 23– Mahadi’s Mystical Pack of Potions

Named for the famous rakshasa owner of the Emporium of Wonders, who you might have met if you’ve played the Descent Into Avernus campaign. The actual card for today’s draw was the Seven of Cups– or as it’s called in my deck, the Seven of Skulls. Kind of an appropriate mix, don’t you think?

[sataniquepanique]

Book Dragon

Summary: What I imagine is a common occurrence at camp with my Tav. She is a hoarder and frequently dumps inventory into the camp supplies and forgets which important objects she needs for quests. (This is dumb but I just needed to get it out of my head)

Pairing: Astarion x Tav (use of she/her)

Tags: fluff, established relationship.

The frantic crunching of gravel was the first indication that someone had arrived to their camp. Immediately upon hearing the rustling coming through the underbrush, Shadowheart rose from her kneeling meditation, hand braced on the dagger at her hip. From across the slowly-dimming fire pit, Lae’zel mirrored the cleric; double blades resting in her palms as her ochre eyes scanned the tree-line for the incoming threat.

The second indication came from the muffled voices beginning to carry through the forrest. There were at least two, neither of which were decipherable at this distance (Halsin’s snores emanating from his tent didn’t help the matter). 

The third indication was the sight of four familiar individuals bursting through the trees, the first two seemingly in a heated argument. Tav was strides ahead of Astarion, making a beeline to her tent next to Shadowheart. 

“All I’m saying is that—“

“—I know I have it somewhere, Astarion!” She threw open the tent flap and slammed both knees onto the shabby rug that lined the floor. Dumping out bag after bag of books, random stones, empty potion bottles, and a few stolen pieces of jewelry, she began to frantically tear through the contents in search of something. 

“Darling,” Astarion leaned against the frame of her tent, voice tense with the clear restraint he was exerting, “I’m sure if you had it, it would be in your pack. Maybe, if you didn’t hoard tomes and scrolls like some sort of…book dragon,” he flourished a hand for emphasis, “then you’d be able to keep track of your belongings more easily.”

“Maybe, if you helped me look and stopped running your pointy mouth for a moment, we’d be able to find it faster.”

Astarion’s face was expressionless and unreadable as he stared at her digging through a large chest, “Oh darling, please don’t be mean to me,” he drawled sarcastically, “you know how it turns me on.”

Tav’s head whipped around, eyes blazing as she stared at her lover (the thought of which still confused the rest of the party). She continued her ravenous search through the tent, tossing weapons and pillows all over the small area rugs as the other party members watched on, half in confusion and the other in exasperation. 

“What’s going on?” Shadowheart glanced uncertainly over at the scouting party, hand finally leaving the hilt of her dagger. 

Karlach shrugged, swaying to an imaginary beat that seemingly played on a constant loop in her head, “Tav needs a book—“

“—More like Tav trekked us through the wilderness for hours to find the Mystic’s tomb, only to double back through treacherous territory just to look for a bloody book, that she may or may not even have, based on a hunch!” Astarion threw out his hands in exclamation, dirt and blood shimmering along his face in the firelight. 

“—She needs the journal we found a few days ago in the temple. We think it may have the key to figuring out where the Mystic’s amulet is. If we get the amulet, we can end him for good,” Gale added valiantly. 

“You two think it’s the key,” Astarion drawled, motioning between the wizard and Tav, “I for one think we can just—“

“AH-HA!” Tav leapt up with a yell, holding a decrepit leather book in her upheld hand. “I knew I had picked it up, I guess I had stashed it in the communal trunk to make more room in my pack.”

Astarion rolled his garnet eyes, “Please enlighten us all on the vast wisdom scrawled haphazardly by this half-dead freak.”

Tav’s eyes sparkled in challenge as she held out the ancient book to him. 

“What do you want me to do with it?” He scoffed, eyes darting between her and the yellowed pages. 

Tav smiled sweetly, a terrifying gesture that caused Karlach to cringe slightly from a few feet away, “I just figured that if this was written by some ‘half-dead freak’, then it could only be deciphered by another ‘half-dead freak”.”

Astarion blinked in surprise, his aloof mask slipping momentarily by her remark. He narrowed his eyes as she smirked and clutched the book to her chest. 

“I think we should take the night to re-group and rest before setting out again tomorrow at first light. I’ll comb through the journal tonight and see what I can find,” She nodded confidently. 

Gale stepped closer to her side, “If you’d like company, I’d love to assist.”

Astarion stiffened, ceasing his casual leaning to stand upright. Before he could get a word out, Tav gave a soft smile and shook her head.

“I appreciate the offer Gale, but I’ll be able to focus better if I’m alone. Once I figure anything out I’ll let you know though.”

Astarion loosed a breath, watching as the wizard nodded and strode off to his own tent, hiding his defeat behind a cool mask. As the rest of the camp began to disperse, Astarion lingered at Tav’s tent, feigning interest in a loose thread hanging from his sleeve. 

“Goodnight, Star,” she shuffled in the dirt towards her bedroll, the events of the day finally catching up with her. Limbs feeling like a million pounds and eyelids full of sand, she reached to push the tent flap aside when she felt a cold grip on her other wrist. 

Astarion pulled her gently backwards, “Where are you going?” His voice was soft and filled with a lingering apprehension that tugged at Tav’s heartstrings. 

“To my tent? I have to dig through this book before we leave tomorrow…” 

Astarion noticed how bloodshot her eyes were; she was exhausted. 

“Let me,” he gingerly pried the book from her fingers. Tav looked at him in confusion.

“I’ll read through it tonight, you should sleep.”

“Star, you don’t have to,” she shook her head, “Let yourself rest—”

“Darling,” Astarion brought a hand up to cradle her cheek, “It’s not up for debate.”

Tav turned and kissed his palm. Breaking into a slow smile, Astarion tucked her into his side and began to lead over towards his tent. 

“Does this mean you’re not actually mad at me about dragging you back here prematurely?” She smirked.

Astarion scoffed. “Oh love, I’m incredibly annoyed,” he squeezed her tighter, “but unfortunately, I’m also quite fond of you and will follow anywhere you ask.” 

[obsessivevoidkitten]

Since everyone really enjoys shorter drabbles I will attempt to mix a few more in here and there instead of just focusing on fewer larger fics. I am not doing titles and word counts for little one-shot drabbles though. (CW: non-con, character death, magic, necromancy, blood drinking, general yandere behavior, undead yandere, gender neutral reader)  

Imagine you live in a realm of monsters and magic. You’re the village mage, and have studied the mystical realm your entire life. You mix potions to help the ill and cast blessings to secure the harvests. Your magical protection even keeps away some of the scarier creatures of the world. But one day your best friend dies, you had been like family since childhood. Trying to move on and accept the loss completely fails, you are devastated. You are devastated and delve into very taboo magic. Forbidden magic. One night you steal away his remains, pack up your magical equipment, and set up a dwelling deep in the woods where normal men dare not dwell. You practice and research dark sorcery and commune with demons deep within the layers of Hell. Once you have the knowledge and enough of the appropriate ingredients you practice reviving animals and finally you feel you are ready. The ritual calls for the bones of the dead and the blood of a living loved one to anchor them back to this world. You repair the body, it looks like he is sleeping, but there is no soul yet, you cast the final incantations and paint the sigils on his body in your own blood. It is done. You wait. He breathes. It has worked! He has returned to the realm of the living once more. He remembers nothing of the afterlife and you explain to him what happened and how neither of you can ever return to your former home. It’s fine, he had no other friends or family there anyway and the two of you manage to do just fine on your own. But slowly you begin to realize your friend was… changed… by the ritual. He came back… wrong. He occasionally needed human blood to feed the magic binding him to this world, but you were the only person available. Each time he ingested your blood he became more and more attached to you. Clingy. Suffocating.   Eventually it got to the point where he wouldn’t leave you alone. He began to leave lingering touches on your body, attempt to caress and even kiss you. You tried to tell him you weren’t interested but he needed more and more. Your essences had been mixed by blood and magic and he now craved you in every way possible! What’s worse is no matter what you tried he was immune to all your spells and potions. And he had ungodly strength. Now you were sobbing as you were helplessly pinned below him with his cock pistoning in and out of you with great force. You would never escape him. There was a reason this type of magic was forbidden.

[archangeldyke-all]

hi angel !! i hope ur doing well.

what do you think sevika would be like with a witchy partner? like a partner whose always slipping crystals into her pockets or using makeup to draw protection sigils on her arm (me lol)

🌕

adorable

disclaimer! i know a bit about witchcraft, being a lesbian and all, but i'm not super familiar with rituals, or cultural practices, so this is all kinda just guessing.

men and minors dni

the thing is... she tries so hard to be a skeptic.

she scoffs every morning when you gently tuck a black crystal into her side satchel, promising it'll protect her.

she rolls her eyes when you talk about astrology or the phases of the moon... like the planets have powers.

and any time she walks in on your burying a candle or some herbs, she just shakes her head and chuckles, then kisses your head and goes about her day.

but... and she fucking hates the fact that it's true... your little potions and spells and whatever else you do... it seems to work.

she asked you one night after she got home, as she was cooking dinner and you were unpacking her satchel for her, why you don't just leave the 'little rock' in overnight, so you don't have to pack it for her every day.

you giggled and explained to her that half the protection is the way you bless it, the symbols you trace into it every morning.

"what kinda symbols?"

"well, i made a special one for you. for when you go to work. that you'll come home safe to me."

and you kinda take her breath away with that answer.

and, worst of all, it seems like it works. each day since you've moved in and started the little morning ritual, she's come home safe and sound, excited to see you.

(she convinces herself it's just the placebo effect, until she comes to terms with the truth when you're too sick one morning to pack her little satchel for her, she forgets the crystal, and gets the shit beat outta her. twice in one day.)

sometimes you anoint her forehead or pulse points with little oils: petals and herbs and other little goodies in the jars. she'll ask what it's for and you'll shrug.

"this one's for peace of mind. you look all far away." you said one night, when you caught on the couch watching tv in the middle of the night.

she was snoring on top of you within minutes.

"this one's for communication." you said on the morning before she asked silco for a raise.

which she ended up getting.

"this one's... well... you'll see." you said mischeviously, before pressing a kiss to her cheek and winking at her.

when she had your ankles by her ears, her strap balls deep inside of you, you giggled and bit her earlobe. "it was an arousal-- ah! arousal oil."

"figures." sevika grunts.

anyways... you know that despite the teasing sevika respects it. she's always bringing you 'cool rocks' for your crystal collection-- you don't have the heart to tell her most of them are just pebbles, so you just add 'em to the shelf. she'll pick up anything and everything that looks a little mystical for you: from cool black matches, to candles whose flames burn different colors, to real crystals, and bones or taxidermied critters.

(she kind of loves the witchy-gothy vibe of it all, loves that there's always candles burning, and incense by the windows-- little jars of goodies and ingredients everywhere. she thinks it's cool. she'll never admit it to you, though.)

taglist!

@fyeahnix @sapphicsgirl @half-of-a-gay @thesevi0lentdelights @sexysapphicshopowner @shimtarofstupidity @love-sugarr @chuucanchuucan @222danielaa @badbye666 @femme-historian @lia-winther @gr0ssz0mbi3 @ellsss @sevikaspillowprincess @leomatsuzaki @emiliabby @sevikasbeloved @hellorai @vikasub

[ironladle]

Tarot Card Legacy Challenge

Generation 1: The Fool

Pack Focus: High School Years, For Rent

Goals: 

Active, Outgoing, Adventurous

Master the Fitness skill to Level 10  by participating in school sports 

Complete the "Outdoor Enthusiast" or “Body Builder” aspiration, going on outdoor adventures with friends and exploring hidden spots in the neighborhood.

Collect all types of fish and insects in the neighborhood as a beginner angler and bug collector.

Achieve 10 charisma skill by making friends and socializing at school events and parties.

Gather collectibles like feathers and crystals by exploring secret areas around the neighborhood and completing after-school activities.

Romance: The Fool finds romance during high school, developing a crush on their lab partner or a fellow athlete. They navigate their first love through shy glances, secret notes, and stolen moments in between classes.

Generation 2: The Empress

Pack Focus: Dream Home Decorator, Growing Together

Goals:

Green Fiend, Family-oriented, Nature Lover

Master the Gardening skill to Level 10 by tending to the school garden and helping out,and personal garden

Complete the "Freelance Botanist" or “Super Parent” aspiration, selling home-grown produce and flowers 

Achieve Level 10 in the Parenting skill by babysitting younger siblings or volunteering

Collect all types of flowers and produce to create beautiful floral arrangements and healthy meals for the family.

Participate in neighborhood gardening competitions, showcasing the family's garden and winning prizes for their beautiful blooms.

Romance: The Empress meets their significant other at a community gardening event or through mutual friends. Their romance blossoms over shared interests in nature and sustainability, with romantic picnics in the park and stargazing under the moonlight.

Generation 3: The Emperor

Pack Focus: For Rent, Home Chef Hustle Stuff

Goals:

Handy, Ambitious,Outdoorsy

Master the Handiness skill to Level 10 by fixing up the family's rented home and helping neighbors with household repairs.

Complete the "Outdoor Enthusiast" or” Master Chef” aspiration, going on camping trips with friends and mastering the art of outdoor cooking.

Achieve Level 10 in the Logic skill 

Collect all types of fossils and crystals during outdoor adventures and neighborhood exploration.

Establish a successful food business, selling handcrafted meals made with locally sourced ingredients.

Romance: The Emperor finds love at a neighborhood block party or while volunteering at the local soup kitchen. Their relationship flourishes over shared meals and cozy nights in, with romantic dinners cooked together in their food truck.

Generation 4: The High Priestess

Pack Focus: Crystal Creations Stuff, Realm of Magic

Goals:

Bookworm, Paranoid, Creative

Master the Spellcasting skill and unlock all spells by studying ancient tomes and practicing magic rituals.

Complete the "Spellcraft & Sorcery" or “ Archaeology Scholar” aspiration, delving deeper into the mysteries of magic and mastering potion-making.

Achieve Level 10 in the Logic skill by experimenting with magical elements and researching arcane phenomena.

Collect all magical artifacts and tomes by exploring hidden caves and participating in magical duels.

Explore all hidden areas in Glimmerbrook and Forgotten Hollow to uncover ancient secrets and mystical creatures.

Romance: The High Priestess meets their soulmate at a magical gathering or during a séance. Their bond deepens through shared experiences in the magical realm, with romantic moonlit rituals and enchanted picnics in enchanted forests.

Generation 5: The Lovers

Pack Focus: My Wedding Stories, Get Together

Goals:

Romantic, Outgoing, Charismatic

Master the Acting skill to Level 10 by participating in school theater productions and joining drama clubs.

Complete the "World-Famous Celebrity" or “ Soulmate” aspiration, climbing the ranks of fame and hosting extravagant parties.

Achieve Level 10 in the Charisma skill by networking at social events and building a large circle of friends.

Collect all celebrity memorabilia and awards by attending exclusive parties 

Host extravagant parties and events in luxury penthouses, showcasing the glamorous lifestyle of the rich and famous.

Romance: The Lovers meet at a high-profile gala or VIP event, instantly drawn to each other's charisma and charm. Their love story unfolds amidst the glittering lights of the city, with romantic rooftop dinners and spontaneous adventures in the nightlife scene.

Generation 6: The Chariot

Pack Focus: Horse Ranch, Werewolves

Animal Lover, Adventurous, Independent

Goals:

Master the Robotics skill and build advanced robots to assist with farm chores and household tasks.

Complete the "Renaissance Sim" or “Championship Rider”  aspiration, excelling in multiple fields of study and expertise, including horse riding and animal training.

Achieve Level 10 in the Handiness skill by repairing farm equipment and maintaining the family's homestead.

Collect all elements and crystals to craft potent potions and futuristic inventions for the family ranch.

Travel to all vacation worlds and explore cultural landmarks and local traditions, incorporating new techniques into the family's farming practices.

Romance: The Chariot finds love in the countryside, meeting their partner at a local rodeo or equestrian event. Their romance flourishes over horseback rides through scenic trails and cozy nights by the fireplace.

Generation 7: Strength

Pack Focus: Cats & Dogs, Seasons

Animal Lover, Family-oriented, Athletic

Goals:

Master the Veterinary skill to Level 10 by opening a veterinary clinic and caring for pets and wildlife in the community.

Complete the "Animal Enthusiast" or “Friend of the Animals” aspiration, fostering strong bonds with animals and participating in pet competitions.

Achieve Level 10 in the Wellness skill by practicing yoga and promoting physical and emotional well-being for Sims and animals alike.

Collect all types of feathers and notes in a bottle, to create unique crafts and decorations for the family's pet-friendly home.

Participate in seasonal festivals and competitions

Romance: Strength meets their partner at a local animal shelter or while walking their pets in the park. Their love grows through shared adventures with their furry companions, with romantic picnics and sunset walks along the beach.

Generation 8: The Hermit

Pack Focus: For Rent, StrangerVille

Paranoid, Bookworm, Loner

Goals:

Master the Herbalism skill to Level 10 by foraging for rare plants and brewing potent potions to unravel the mysteries of StrangerVille.

Complete the "Paranormal Investigator" or “Strangerville Mystery”  aspiration, investigating strange occurrences and uncovering hidden truths in the mysterious town.

Achieve Level 10 in the Logic skill by analyzing evidence and conducting experiments to solve the town's supernatural mysteries.

Collect all types of artifacts and relics by exploring secret labs and hidden caves, documenting strange occurrences and encounters.

Investigate secret conspiracies and alien encounters, uncovering the truth behind the town's strange phenomena.

Romance: The Hermit finds love amidst the mysteries of StrangerVille, meeting their partner while investigating paranormal activity or sharing theories at the local diner. Their romance deepens as they work together to uncover the town's secrets, with late-night stakeouts and passionate debates over conspiracy theories.

Generation 9: The Wheel of Fortune

Pack Focus: My Wedding Stories, For Rent

Party Animal, Outgoing, Ambitious

Goals:

Master the DJ Mixing skill and become a renowned DJ by hosting epic parties and events in the community.

Complete the "Party Animal" or “Fabulously Wealthy” aspiration, mastering the art of socializing and bringing people together through music and entertainment.

Achieve Level 10 in the Cooking skill by experimenting with new recipes and hosting seasonal feasts and gatherings.

Collect all types of rare and exotic fruits and vegetables to create signature dishes and cocktails for their events.

Participate in seasonal festivals and competitions, winning prizes and earning recognition for their contributions to community spirit and celebration.

Romance: The Wheel of Fortune finds love on the dance floor, meeting their partner at a lively nightclub or music festival. Their romance ignites through shared passion for music and nightlife, with spontaneous dance-offs and intimate moments under the stars.

Generation 10: The Star

Pack Focus: Get Famous, Dream Home Decorator

Goals:

Charismatic,Ambitious, High- Maintenance 

Rise to stardom as a celebrity in the entertainment industry, pursuing careers in acting, music, or comedy, and gaining fame and recognition.

Develop culinary skills to create stunning dishes and desserts, showcasing talents through cooking shows or hosting celebrity dinner parties.

Utilize interior design expertise to decorate lavish homes and venues for celebrity clients, earning acclaim for their exquisite taste.

Master the photography skill to capture glamorous moments on red carpets, at exclusive events, and during intimate gatherings.

Utilize gaming expertise to engage with fans through live streams and gaming events, building a dedicated online following fascinated by their celebrity lifestyle.

Romance: The Star finds love amidst the glitz and glamour of celebrity life, meeting their partner at industry events, through mutual connections, or even on the set of a blockbuster film. Their romance plays out in the public eye, with paparazzi capturing their every move and fans speculating about their relationship. Despite the challenges of fame, their love remains strong, and they ultimately tie the knot in a star-studded ceremony, attended by fellow celebrities and broadcasted to millions of viewers worldwide.

Complete World-Famous Celebrity or Master Actor/Master Actress aspiration

-Slay, I will be fixing this challenge little by little.

#TS4TarotLegacy

[yaboyhoney]

I just finished reading your self aware reader x submas and I loved it so much it made me hyperfixate on them again. Just to know it, do you plan on continuing it?

OYEAA I WAS JUST WAITING FOR AN ASK REALLY THAT WOULD MAKE ME WRITE SOME MORE

Submas x Self Aware Reader! Part 4

With your own investigations and the twins helping, you were accumulating the material rather quickly. They already grew and harvested a glassgem and provided you with all the highest quality ore you'll ever need which was great.

But when they presented the glassgem to you, you were quite surprised. "Once again I am pleasantly surprised by your work. Your efforts have not been in vain, thank you." You take the delicate fruit in your hands and take a sniff, this mystic crop smells like the ocean oddly. "With this, my goal becomes ever much closer. I thank you."

"What's our reward this time?" Emmet ponders out loud. You think to yourself in thought. What could be a worthy gift to bestow upon them this time? "Well, I've given you all of my gold," you tell them both. You gave all of your money to the twins when they presented you with all the ore. "I'm afraid the reward you seek will be at the end of this journey, when our tracks meet." "Concerning how they say that. Makes you wonder what it could be," Ingo says aloud. "But I will offer to you two my help in procuring the mystic mushrooms I require in the Forbidden Forest. Hopefully it will be in our favor that we'll come across the Killer Bees." Out of all the monsters you are required to hunt for their loot, the Killer Bees were a randomized boss. "I, Goldeneye, will join you in your quest." you say as you step outside the ticket station to reveal yourself, dawning your quiver and bow. A melodic fanfare of music plays out of seemingly nowhere and the twins holler in excitement! It seems like your very presence soothes them, makes him feel rewarded. Which was fortunate considering you had nothing else to give.

"This journey will be treacherous. Pack your belongings and meet me back here," you tell the twins. Their characters quickly run down the mountains on their horses and comes back moments later with their gear.

Ingo and Emmet both favored to attack with magic, Ingo with fire and Emmet with electricity. You decide you would pack yourself with as many healing potions as you could. As the train starts, the twins are able to go leave the passenger compartment to speak with you in the front engines. The steam powered train runs smoothly to its destination. Because it's still just a game, what would have ordinarily taken hours takes only moments. You're thrown off by how the mechanics of this world works with you aware of it now but you try to adjust to it. You step off the train and wait for the twins to disembark. "Now I'll be providing as much support as I can," You explain to the twins. "I have limited potions. We must use them sparingly." The twins seem to agree to this and you set off your journey, the three of you walking in a row. The first several monster encounters go better than you expected. The twins were great fighters! You had never seen them in combat and felt relief to be in safe hands. But at one point an enemy attacks you and you fall to the ground. It...hurt. It hurt a lot more than you remembered pain feeling. It had been many years since you were last in combat. The twins immediately finish the fight and come to your side. "What's wrong?" Emmet asks out loud. "I got hurt...." You groan as you try to stand back up. "Sorry boys, it's been a long time since I've been out on the field. I haven't done any kind of close quarters combat in a long time..." Because of the curse you inflicted onto your friends, you're theoretically immortal but there was no rule opposed to you being invulnerable. "Just feeling a bit sore. Let's make camp here for tonight." The twins then get involved in some kind of setting up camp minigame. You stand there dumbfounded as the campsite magically puts itself together with the twins just staring there. The characters then turn their heads back to face you, eager to talk? You can't help but to feel a bit offput but it's slightly humorous how comical they are as well. For the twins in the real world, they think they've entered some kind of cutscene with you. The three of your are sitting in a circle around a campfire. "You two are the only ones worth speaking to," you say. "The other villagers...they live in a peace I can no longer obtain. This quest you're helping me with, the ingredients you are gathering, I will reveal a glimmer of truth tonight." You stand up and clasp your hands together, the lights and fire go out but in the next split moment, they see you again, with the dark tome floating before you and your eyes glowing white in the dark. "Try as you might, neither of you can read this book. The former scribe that wrote this made it so only those descended from the royal family of a kingdom lost long ago can read it." "This tome possessed me and showed me an evil truth to this world. What this truth is, I cannot say." You hear Emmet whine, "Not now but soon, at the end of this year when you catch me the fish I require in winter. But the truth I will reveal is this." You then close the book and it disappears, the campfire lights again and you all bask in its warmth. "The truth can be....revealed ideally. I am making a potion that will hopefully allow me to access this truth. Though there is much work to do, we have all year." "I am not certain of what other gifts I can provide to you two, but I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have, depending on what it could be." To the twins, a textbox appeared before them and they could type in a question for you. Ingo begins to type and his character then asks, "Is this truth of yours dangerous?"

"This truth is more than just dangerous, it is hope," You answer elegantly. "This truth shook me to the core and horrified me to my bones, reigniting lost forgotten feelings of despair and courage. If I fail to seek this truth out, I'm afraid my life, all of it, will have amounted to nothing but entertainment."

Emmet then types, "What kind of boys do you like???? :D "

You stand there in shock at the question before letting out a great big belly laugh, "Well, you got it correct that I do prefer men over women, but I suppose I..." You take a moment to ponder, hand on your chin as your other hand rests on your bow. "There are the ordinary values every one would want in a partner: strong, kind, smart... but what I crave with a man is more than just tangible traits. I want a man who will yearn for me."

"I have not loved in a very long time and now reflecting on it, I do not know if that love was ever even real. So the man, or even men that I need in my next love life..."

"They must be hungry for me. They must want me in a way that transcends all meaning. I have lived a life that meant and amounted to nothing which means I have nothing to give but only myself and whatever love that amounts enough for me to confess. And yet, in the face of that, there surely must be someone out there who will be hungry for me enough for me to become..." you pause on the world "real." It was much too soon.

"I hope that whoever is out there, will be as so kind to me that they will not only stand strong with me, whether it be weapons in hands....or just hand in hand. Flowers in our hair. Perhaps." You nod thinking of that.

Emmet's next response was, "I love you! :>"

You hear the actual voices of the men bickering in person before Ingo responds as well. "Though my brother fails to elegantly profess, I admit a tender fondness for you as well."

You stare at them shocked once more before saying, "But why? All this time for years, I have only provided you with train rides. And the concessional sentence in the village holidays... You two are quite interesting as you are puzzling...Quite puzzling indeed..." You let out another belly laugh. "I admit a tender fondness of you two as well, but perhaps not quite as strong. Though that may be subject to change in the future, should you two accept me for who I am."

The night continues with you interacting with the twins, them asking questions and you returning with your answers.

[windvexer]

hey chicken! what can i do in the dry periods in which there is nothing really bothering me? as in, how can i further my practice with spirits and witchcraft if i am not actively needing to do a spell?

What a great question! This is a problem that plagues many practitioners. Here's a few ideas in no particular order:

Take a break and do nothing. IMO, a vital part of growth in witchcraft is growth of the witch. Just by living life, you develop yourself and therefore your craft. Your witchcraft evolves at the exact same pace as you evolve. It is in lockstep with you; it is you, it comes from you. It is never separate from you.

So do literally anything - relax and steep yourself into a tea of nonaction, learn a new hobby, watch that Netflix series, go for a walk. Do anything, including nothing.

Learn a new creative hobby, by the way. A significant portion of my practice these days is making things. My beliefs advise that the act of physical creation is very powerful and a very good way to bind magic into our physical world.

Christmas is coming up and it's the perfect time to learn to crochet coasters, paint watercolor bookmarks, calligraphy for fancy cards, and so on. Knowing most of us, we probably have expensive and barely-used craft materials in the closet from last summer's hyperfixation! Pick something up again and learn to use it for small projects.

As you hobby away, ask yourself how the skill you're learning might translate to witchcraft.

When it's time to do magic again, you'll have extra tools in your toolbox. Hand-made bags for spell sachets, devotional artwork, stunning sigils: by learning a skill and meditating on its mystical uses, we unlock new doors in our path that may lead to mysterious and winding hallways of possibility.

You can also do drills. Whatever sort of magic you do, you can break it down to its composite parts and practice it. Suppose you like to do a lot of candle magic where you charge the candle. Well, practice that. Get a pack of 100 tea lights and practice charging each one. Fill it with a specific sort of energy. Come back the next day and fill it again. And again. Carve a symbol on top. Do you perceive that it is easier to charge the candle when a corresponding symbol has been carved into it? Put it away. How long does it stay charged for?

Learn a new method of charging. Maybe you like to do visualization + willpower charging. Now, try something new: charging through offerings. Charging through sacrifice. Charging through prayer. Compare the results to your original method. Is it less draining? More? Does it stay charged as long? Is the quality of energy different? What about when you carve a symbol and then pray over it, does that make a difference?

(the benefit of this is ending up with a hundred pre-charged candles ready for spellwork when the time comes)

Of course, you may work over substances specifically meant to be worked over ahead of time. Oils, waters, potions, and powders may be prepared ahead of time, especially at opportune astrological appointments, and accumulate a great deal of power before they're needed. Many traditional recipes call for an incense or oil to steep for months before it is used.

What kind of magic do you often end up doing? Are you regularly blessing, generating good luck, or drawing prosperity? Perhaps your practice would benefit from careful preparation of a blessing incense, worked over for a few months before it's put into use.

If you're in a creative mood, maybe there is some big project you've been putting off - building of spirit houses, making of fancy altar cloths, crafting of special ceremonial masks - that you could finally get started on.

Moving away from mundane creation, perhaps there's some magical skill you'd like to adopt. Astral travel, new methods of divination, new methodologies of spellwork, and so on. If there's truly nothing for you to cast on, learning about a system is better than not learning about a system. You'll still take away more than nothing.

A healthy period of self-examination may also serve. Try giving a name to your practice (something very cool and 90s, like Path of the Golden Crow) and writing a handbook for hypothetical novices who want to join this path. What are the foundational skills of your practice? What are your core beliefs? What spell or ritual formats must people be able to work if they want to be a Golden Crow?

Pouring energy back into spiritual relationships is always a good option. It's my experience that spirits don't like feeling like vending machines, and relationships may turn sour if we only show up when we need something from them. Spend a lot of time talking to the spirits. Ask them what you should be doing.

If your skills with spirit work are limited, actively practice psychism, divination, astral travel, or other methods of spirit contact.

Of course, you can also just do spellwork regardless. Why does something have to be bothering you before you cast on it? Wouldn't you like to get a pay raise, or have more ideal hours? Would you like your blog to have more followers? Would you like a very expensive tool or crafting supply on the cheap? Maybe you'd like to meet similarly-minded folks in your local area. The list goes on.

Now, I will say something to wrap this up: plateaus are good and necessary. There is a difference between a plateau and a rut. I started this list off with "literally do nothing" for a reason. Periods of rest are not periods of stagnation, and things are often going on behind the scenes without us realizing it.

A few years ago, a witch friend of mine said she felt she had plateaued and asked me for a reading on how to get to the "next level." The reading was very bizarre and recommended that she basically implode her own life by making horrible decisions.

"Judy," I said, "isn't it true that all your periods of growth in witchcraft have been because something horrible happened, and you had to adapt to survive?"

"Yes," she said.

"Then enjoy your plateau," I advised, "and don't try to get out of it."

[kokorowoutsu]

-- RP: @mystical-strawberry-sheep

mystical-strawberry-sheep:

Aku looked up from the little Darumaka that was steadily letting off a stream of protests to the young lady standing above her. It was only then that she started coming back to the real world enough to consider the position she was in. Where was she? Where had she come off to? And as she blinked up at the other, a bit of blood began rolling down the side of her face from somewhere beneath her bangs.

"Oh, hello,” Aku chirped politely, despite being covered in scrapes and burns. “We were practicing. I’m sorry, are we not supposed to be here? We might’ve gotten a little carried away back there, but he’s fine now, see?”

She took the round pokemon in her arms and lifted him up to show him off to the other, and delighted by the motion he waved his arms. Even for a Darumaka, this one was particularly small, but that didn’t seem to reflect in his power at all. Even though he hadn’t evolved, he was quite the trained up little powerhouse. And like his trainer, he didn’t seem at all weary of the stranger he was facing or feel protective at all. Either they were both confident in their abilities to protect themselves, or they were both so empty-headed that they didn’t realize the situation they were in.

And based on Aku’s cluelessness, it would be easy to reach the latter conclusion…

“It took a few, but I got him some potions and he’s all better,” Aku continued, rocking the Darumaka in her hands like a doll.

This woman was clueless, wasn’t she? Didn’t she even bother to think that normal humans would be burnt alive by a Flare Blitz? With a sigh -- a deep one -- Ashe shakes her head and rubs her temples. Lowering said hand, she takes a moment to look towards the person before her now. Said woman wasn’t supposed to be here for reasons obvious and she was prepared to have her Mismagius which was lurking in her shadows wipe her memories and see her off, but the blood had her concerned.

Looking to Miraidon... Pollux as he was nicknamed, the pokemon gave a mechanical trilled ‘Giiiias’ at her.

“Query: What will be done with this human?” He asked to which Ashe sighed. “Might as well get her cleaned up first. We don’t want the blood rousing up the Pack.” With that, she looked to Lucky who approached then, gently wrapping a ribbon around Aku’s arm. ‘This way.’ His voice was loud and clear and inviting on top of that... and there was a very unusual aura being let out by everyone now -- something that wasn’t entirely human. “Come with us back to the house. After we tend to the blood, you can be on your way.”

Fae abilities were being used, and if anyone knew the Fairfolk, it was a way of ‘spiriting away’ someone... however, for Ashe it was all about the safety of the ranch -- especially for pokemon like the one who appeared to be a robotic dragon-type behind her.

@mystical-strawberry-sheep​​

[linuxgamenews]

Unleash Your Potion Brewing Skills: Potions: A Curious Tale

Potions: A Curious Tale launches the adventure and crafting game on Linux, Mac, with Windows PC. Thanks to the skilled folks at Stumbling Cat for their fantastic work in this adventure. Available now on Steam. Potions: A Curious Tale launch is the latest creation from Stumbling Cat. This isn't just any ordinary adventure – it's a magical journey that has just hit Linux, Mac, and Windows PC, and it's enchanting. Playing as Luna, a young witch with a knack for brewing potions. Your journey is a classic tale of discovery and growth. With your cat companion, Helios, you dive into a world filled with seven mystical biomes. Since each is brimming with its unique wonders. Potions: A Curious Tale is due to be like launching into a storybook where every page is a new, exciting chapter. Now, Luna's not just any character. She's on a mission to prove her worth and silence the doubters. How? By mastering the art of potion-making. The heart of this experience lies in Luna's master recipe book, packed with over 100 potion recipes. These are a blend of elements like fire, water, earth, and more. The challenge? Gather ingredients from across these biomes, ranging from the ordinary to the outright bizarre. Picture mixing mushrooms, ashes, and feathers for an explosive effect. Or blending blueberries with thyme for a healing touch.

Potions: A Curious Tale - Launch Date Trailer

But it's not all about potion-making. Luna's path is strewn with puzzles that demand more than just combat skills. You'll need to think on your feet, outsmarting dangers with strategy rather than brute force. And when you are gathering ingredients, Potions: A Curious Tale launches into a game of wit. While you coax critters, avoiding hazards, and turning every test into an opportunity. What truly sets the Potions: A Curious Tale launch apart is its art style and music – think fairytale meets folklore. Each setting, from lush fields to fiery caves, is a feast for the senses. And the story? It's also a rich tapestry of myths and legends from around the globe. Delivering a message about growing up, earning respect, and learning that even adults aren't perfect. Renee Gittins, the creative force behind this world, has poured nearly a decade of passion into bringing Luna's story to life. It's a story meant to inspire, especially for women and diminished communities. So they can chase their dreams, no matter where they are. Potions: A Curious Tale adventure and crafting launches on Linux, Mac, and Windows PC via Steam. Priced at $16.99 USD / £12.74 / 14,44€, with the 15% discount until March 21, 2024. The game is accessible to a global audience, thanks to localizations in English, Chinese (both traditional and simplified), French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Brazilian Portuguese, and Russian. This isn't just an adventure; it's a journey of discovery, strategy, and magical wonder.

[soul-controller]

Patreon Update (January ‘23)

Hello there everyone, hope everyone is doing well now that the holidays have passed and life has returned to some form of normalcy. Here’s a quick little summary of the stuff I’ve released over on my Patreon over the past month. If any of the following stories intrigue you, please feel free to click on the title so you can sign up for the appropriate tier to read it! I’d love to have you join my Patreon and my Discord community, where you can view exclusive photo captions.

Man Of His Dreams II

Upon taking a potion that was meant to summon his ideal man, Ricardo is shocked to find himself turned into a straight white redneck not too different from those that constantly taunt him around town. As he waited for his friend James to craft up a reversal potion, the man headed to bed. Unfortunately for him, sleeping it off only led to further changes as reality and the man's mind both altered to match his new body...

Tags:  Age Progression, Muscle Growth, Racial Change, Weight Gain, Unintended Consequences, Reality Shift

A New Years’ Meet Cute II

Under the influence of the pub's magical drink, Henry has been unknowingly transformed from an average teacher into a beefy and muscular hunk. With the physical changes now finished, the bartender Greg begins to slowly ask questions and make statements that completely alter Henry's personality and memories. Before long though, Henry's frustration with the bartender soon leads to Greg being accidentally pulled into his own transformation as the duo start 2023 with an all new relationship.

Tags: Mental Changes, Muscle Growth, Reality Shift

Oh, You Dirty Dog II

With his transformation into a dog well underway, Miles is forced to deal with the humiliating loss of not only his masculinity but humanity as well. After six months though, will Miles soon accept his new life or continue to search for a way to get his humanity back?

Tags: Animal, Gender Change, Punishment, Post-TF

…And A Happy New You!

This is the alternate POV of the Have A Muscle Christmas story posted in December. If you enjoy muscle theft / twinkification, this is the story for you!

While normal man Oliver Thomas got his Christmas wish of having a bodybuilder physique granted by stealing Ryan Terry's life, this story follows Ryan as he frantically tries to figure out why his body is losing muscle at a rapid pace. Not only that, but his sexuality is also shifting to where he can only get off to hunky men!

Tags: Muscle Theft, Twinkification, Mental Changes, Reality Shift

S-C Escapes: Austria

When Luke arrives home from his birthday party, he is shocked to find a special gift waiting on his doorstep: a free vacation package to Austria from an anonymous source. Upon verifying its legitimacy, the man packs his bags and departs to explore the European country. Once he arrives at the hotel, Luke decides to forgo the crowded hotel pool and instead travel to a nearby abandoned lake. Upon getting into the water though, the mystical lake begins to transform the man's body into that of a hunky silver-haired DILF…

This is a special 5k commission from Luke DeAn that is an expansion of a September caption posted in my Discord.

Tags: Muscle Growth, Age Progression, Reality Shift

[unknownmusing]

Baldur's Gate - Halsin x Astarion Fanfic: 'Always there to Travel the Same Path which One Walks' -  Part 2 - 'Beginning of the First Path' (Act 1) (Spawn Astarion Route)

----------------------------------------

Notes

This chapter deals with introducing and bringing everyone together hence the title 'Beginning the First Path'

Astarion due to their Tadpole and other reasons has lost all memories of him and Halsin sharing time together so that will be explained in further chapters

Asdalen as also lost his memories in the process.

The new character mentioned by description will be explained in further chapters

Short chapter

------------------------------

Location – River Chionthar, the Ravaged Beach - Destroyed Nautiloid - Mid-Morning

Astarion's P.O.V:

Reassured by the Archdruid called Halsin, after he gives me a healing potion to speed up my Healing Factor – noting internally the potion has a faint aftertaste of honey and oak – I watch from the grassy verge where he’d told me to remain in such studious way, I gone to interject but a firm, stern glare and one hand being held up in front of my face effectively shut me up.

Damm, Archdruid, who does he think he is?

Though a benefit is the healing potion has acted more quickly than my healing factor.

Settling myself down on the grassy ledge above where the destroyed Nautiloid lays down below, I reach one hand into the travelling pack for the flask of wine and a cup to pour myself a glass – even though it may taste like ash to my tastebuds.

Another crackle of magic in the air nearly sets my hair standing on end, a large roaring sound of what sounds like a bear and finally, the sight of my ‘siblings’ escaping the ravaged beach area with their metaphorical tails tucked between their legs.

Bringing the cup of wine to my lips, I take a sip finding it’s not wine, but in fact it is blood mixed with a pinch of Nutmeg.

 How strange? Whoever left this traveling pack behind certainly knows about Vampires. Blood mixed with pinch of Nutmeg, could get addicted to this.

Relaxing on the grassy ledge, I see below from my vantage point the Archdruid Halsin is beginning to talk with the Barbarian female Tiefling, a Cleric – summarising from the way the half-elf acts around others – and the Wizard wearing robes of lilac seems to radiate strange, dangerous mystical energy around him.

Up on a long ridge on the other side, a sight of two figures coming down the hillside of it to the destroyed Nautiloid draws my attention away from the group below me.

The reason being one of them is dragging one of my ‘siblings’ Leon by his hair, with Dalyria trying to placate with a tall black man to let her ‘Brother’ free before he burns to crisp seeing already flakes of Leon’s skin are peeling off.

Typical, it had to be these two to be the ones left behind. Well, Astarion, you better head down and introduce yourself then.

----------------------------------

Location - Emerald Grove, Western Heartlands, West Faerun – After Mid-Morning

Asdalen’s P.O.V:

“Brother, are you alright? I was so worried when….”

“Listen, Archdruid Halsin, I apologize but…...I…Why are you calling me ‘Brother’?”

 The Archdruid Halsin begins to ask me, only to step back when I ask that question looking at me with his face going white as a sheet, a trembling hand coming up glowing with golden energy before exploding in a bunch of dead leaves and eyes starting to glisten with tears.

“I…Oakfather, why has this happened?......” He begins to say, only to mutter the rest of his sentence under his breath and beginning to pace back and forth until stops to look at me in such a way it makes my chest ache at the sight of it.

Is the reason he called me ‘Brother’ is because I remind him of someone else? Why does it feel right though when it calls me that. Are we related in some way?

Finding I don’t know what to say to him, I head over to where a Blacksmith is talking to Karlach – a female Barbarian Tiefling – about her Infernal Engine seeing the male sand-coloured Tiefling is thinking about something, his clawed hand stroking his chin in deep thought.

“I have an idea. It might work with some Infernal Iron.” The blacksmith tells her, reminding me of a piece of metal I’d picked up when exploring around the destroyed Nautiloid that reach into the traveling pack to get it out.

“Here. Will this do, Blacksmith?” I ask, holding it out to the sand coloured Tiefling who immediately takes it off my hands inspecting the piece of metal feeling Karlach, giving me a quick hug so she doesn’t burn me.

“Yes!!!? Thank you, I can work with this….Hang on…” the Blacksmith replies, turning to his anvil where placing on the metal on top reaches for the hammer heating up in the coal-fire to begin hammering it.

Sparks occasionally fly, a metallic ring echoing every-time he brings the hammer down to shape it – his muscles bulging with the effort, sweat forming and fierce concentration showing on his face – until stepping back to admire his handiwork.

Lesia, who’s been playing in the centre of the grove comes walking over to stand beside me along with someone else joining us: a Tiefling with light green-blue eyes, short-cut blue and black dyed hair and a silver looped-shaped earring and curved horns.

“Dammon, brother.” She says, making him turn his face followed by embracing the female Tiefling in his arms with “LITTLE SISTER!!?” reassuring Karlach, who’s expression had been briefly one of jealousy at the sight of the new Tiefling gives out a gentle sigh of relief at the fact the young Tiefling is Dammon’s sister.

----------------------------------------------

Location - Emerald Grove, Western Heartlands, West Faerun – Still Mid-Morning

Astarion’s P.O.V:

“I…...Archdruid, sorry to ask you of this….is there somewhere I can lay down?”

“Is your head hurting?”

Lifting my head up, I look at the Archdruid Halsin who turns slightly to face me at the top of the flight of stone-carved steps leading into the hidden areas of the Emerald Grove – the sleeping areas where most of the Druids would stay in during the heavy winter months that would hit West Faerun  - to look at me.

“Not really. It’s…just so can mull over what has transpired, darling.” I reply, a flirtatious tone forming in my voice and stepping myself closer to Halsin, who gives me a look he’s not amused by it.

Those beautiful, bold brown eyes ringed with gold showing a hint of displeasure, that it feels oddly fun to rile the Archdruid up this way.

“I think a rest would better suit you instead of flirting this way, Astarion Ancunin.” Halsin states to me, descending the stone-carved stone steps with no backward glance. His mistake, so descend the stone-carved steps to confront him.

How does this Archdruid know my full name!!!? I never told him!!! So how…!!!??

Slipping the dagger into my hand from my sleeve, nearly reaching him it’s the sudden sense of something that draws my attention away from him.

Curious, I stop in my pursuit of Archdruid Halsin to walk over to the area finding more stone-carved steps leading down to what must be another secret area.

Something about it though feels familiar – like I’ve been to the area at some point in my life, but I know I haven’t – placing a hand on the curved wall wondering should I descend into the bowels of Emerald Grove to figure out what is calling out to me.

---------------------------------------------

[haysprite]

since you requested more of the fantasy au, i shall give you more.

. to start things off Frank was an infamous thief who would steal gold, jewelry, or valuable items from royalty. the next kingdom on his list was the Kostenko kingdom. he managed to sneak in successfully without any guards noticing him but unfortunately, he was knocked out cold.

. Frank later woke up to find himself tied down on a chair, in a bathroom. it was then revealed to him that it was the princess who knocked him out and tied him to the chair in her personal bathroom. she told him that she knew who he was and she wanted to him to do what she says if he doesn't she will tell her parents about him and have him executed, so he agrees to her (because he doesn't really have a choice).

.so while he was "imprisoned" Princess Julie would talk with him whenever she would have the time. she told him how she never really enjoyed the life of royalty, she was never allowed outside the castle grounds, forced to wear dresses that make her uncomfortable and her parents ignored her the majority of the time. she also told him her interests in thief's, murderers, and mystical creatures, her plans about adventuring the world.

. he also met her two best (and only) friends. Susie, Julie's childhood best friend and the daughter of the king & queen's personal maid. and Joey, the son of the knight commander of the kingdom. Joey and Susie were the only ones who knew about frank, they watch Julie's door (mostly joey) to make sure nobody comes in and finds Frank. sometimes one of them would have a chat with frank while Julie is busy.

.this lasted for a month until one day Julie ran into her room, threw herself at her bed, and started crying on her pillows. apparently, her parents had finally talked to her but it wasn't good. apparently, they arranged her to marry a prince on her 18th birthday (which was 1 month away) this was the final nail in the coffin. she told frank that she wants to join him, run away from her kingdom, and never look back and frank agrees. while the two were discussing a plan Joey and Susie overheard the two.

. at night time, Julie got changed into an outfit more suitable for adventuring, packed some items, and lead frank through the castle to avoid the guards and get to the stables. when they got to the stables Susie and joey confronted the two. they told Julie that they overheard her plans of running away which made the two upset because she was going to leave them behind. they told frank and Julie that they would like to join them. this wasn't really apart of the plan but frank let the two join to prevent them from snitching. so they took two horses (frank and Julie on Julie's personal horse) (Susie and joey on the other horse) and ran out of the Kostenko kingdom, and never looked back.

. when the group had once fled far away from the kingdom, they took a break where Julie cut her hair to her shoulders and threw her crown into the river.

. when the group had been stealing stuff for a while both Julie and frank had caught feelings for each other (and a year later they confessed their feelings to each other and started dating ever since)

. susie once drank a potion that permanently made her hair pink

(and i would add more but i think this ask is big enough already)

ANON, I WOULD FIRST OFF LIKE TO APOLOGIZE FOR HOW FUCKING LONG ITS TAKEN ME TO REPLY TO THIS !!! I REALLLLYYY wanted to do some doodles cause I LOVE the idea so damn much, and I finally had the time and motivation to do so tonight 🙏 Second, this AU now lives in my mind rent free and I would LOVE TO KNOW MORE if you have ANYTHING else oh my goddd, like I'm being dead ass when I say how much I adore everything about it. Third, I hope you like the designs I gave em! I honestly wanna work on em more later sometime, but yaaa! Anywho, on to the doodles! <3

Miss ma'am knocked him OUT! I feel like Joey was the one who originally helped Julie drag his ass to her room ??? She could defo do it on her own for sure, but she'd wanna do it without getting caught, ofc, so who better to ask than Joey!

I feel like this needs no explanation lmfao. I WILL SAY IM FUCKING ASS AT DRAWING FURNITURE SO PLS DON'T MIND HOW WONKY THAT STUPID CHAIR IS :o)

Frank moment, no further comment.

Susie DEFO knows how unhappy Julie is with her life, but goddammit she's gonna try her best to help her out as much as she can. She hates seeing Julie look so down :o( This takes place before Julie's parents reveal the whole "arranged marriage" thing

I JUST WANT THEM TO BE HAPPY LFDSJJLKDSF <3<3<3 Its been a few months after she ran away, and god does she love her life so much more now that she's off doing what she wants with Frank, Joey, and Susie !!! Frank is happy that she tagged along with him as well :3c ALSO I'M A LONG HAIRED JULIE TRUTHER, BUT GODDAMN DOES SHE LOOK SO FUCKING CUTE WITH SHORT HAIR I'M SOBBING !!! (this is my personal favorite doodle, they mean so much to me <3)

I would absolutely LOVE to draw some more shit for this AU!!! No promises, ofc, but mayhaps !!! Thank you for bringing this silly AU to me, its such a good fucking premise and there's soooo many silly adventures these guys could have omg! I feel like Jeff needs to be included in some way, just some silly guy they meet among their many misadventures !!! Idk!

[psalacanthea]

WiP Wednesday

Oops, it's late. Here's a tiny bit from the BG3 Early Access fic rewrite. 20 days till I update it!

...

Karlach turned to face her, clutching a teddy bear in both heavily-gloved hands.  She looked embarrassed, but her voice when she spoke was subdued.  “Just found this, and I was thinking ‘oh, cute’.  It’s…”  She held it out for examination, explaining needlessly, “It’s a bear toy.  Then I thought about what we’d seen down there, and Mayrina’s baby and all…just hope that if a kid ever loved this, that they’re safe and sound.”

Malice and misfortune, talk about overly sentimental.  Zyn stepped in with an understanding, but sad smile, taking the bear and looking it over. What would something sympathetic say? Ah!

“Well, hmm.  You know, as a bard, if an object is part of a story, I can sense and ‘read’ that story,” she confided, lowering her voice.

Karlach scoffed.  “Not really.  Why’ve I never heard that before?”

“Well, most bards, actual bards and not minstrels, only know how to do it to magical items. Small minded.  But I, on the other hand, understand that a good story can come from anywhere.”  Zyn smiled at her, and then lifted the bear, giving it a very intent stare, silver-blue eyes boring into black buttons. 

“This bear…this bear has been through a great tragedy,” she said, doing her best ‘mystical’ voice.

“Oh no,” Karlach sighed, as if she’d entirely bought Zyn’s little story.

“What sort of tragedy?” another voice popped up.  Shadowheart.  Forever nosy, wasn’t she?

Let's see...hmm.

“You see, when a toy is given to a child, it must be named.  Naming a thing forges a bond between you and it, like the name of a legendary blade.  Without it, the toy cannot bring true happiness, and will never fulfill its purpose.  This bear was never named.”  Zyn stared solemnly into Karlach’s beautiful topaz eyes, offering up the bear solemnly in both hands.  “This bear must be named, and if he is, he will finally be able to fulfill his purpose: to bring comfort and joy to those around him.”

“That’s a big job,” Karlach said soberly, taking the bear from her.

“He can handle it, and so can you!”  Zyn said, before being distracted by a bottle tucked between a basket and the wardrobe, half-underneath.  “Ooh, is that a healing potion?”  

Skittering off to grab it before someone else did, Zyn happily shoved it in her pack while down on her knees.

“Ridiculous story,” Shadowheart said, her words followed by the sound of receding footsteps.

Stifling a chuckle, Zyn brushed off the top of her head and rose. There were aches and weariness in places she hadn't anticipated. Luck's sake, today had been too much.

“That was cute,” Karlach chuckled, their eyes meeting as Zyn sat back on her heels and craned her head up.

Oh, this angle was…interesting.

Really made a girl feel small…

“Um…what?”  Zyn asked, blinking a little and shaking her head.

“The story.  I liked it.  Thanks for making me feel better.”  Karlach turned the bear over in her hand, staring at its face.  “Kind of feel like I have to bring him along now, though.”

Zyn got to her feet before any more excessive lewd thoughts made her turn into a witless fool.  “Well, why not.  Even a bear can have an adventure, right?”

Karlach grinned, glancing at the bear again.  She gently adjusted one of his black button eyes with two fingers.  “I’ll call him Clive.”

[luminaartanddrawings]

(Clic for better quality)

This is my rottmnt oc that I decided to finally post!

I haven’t fully developed her backstory yet, but this is what I thought of so far (edit):

Name: ‘Nori’ Chi Liên Nguyễn

Species: Selkie

Ethnicity: Asian American (Vietnamese)

Likes: Salmon, snickerdoodles, music, bubble tea, art, kimchi fries

Dislikes: bean sprouts, bell peppers, angry yelling/arguments, jumpscares

Additional info

Has a third eyelid (going sideways, like a seal).

Eyes seem black but when lights shine on it, it’s actually brown.

Her seal coat can change styles. Doesn’t know how, she just can.

If she’s wears/tied her coat around her waist and changes, she can become a mer-seal.

Can sees injuries (similar to Farma in ‘Parallel world pharmacy’) and mystic cores/energy (from the movie). It’s how she can discern what medical treatment people need. Whether physically or magically.

Sometimes gets visions of the near future or past events of other people lives while she sleeps. It’s often hard to tell if it’s a dream or a vision (has no control of it).

Doesn’t remember everything in the visions most of the time.

Sometimes draws her visions/dreams, when she’s wants to remember it, or is artistically inspired by it.

Learns potions and other stuff from dad, since he used to make & sell them at Witch town. (Also sells potion ingredients there).

Her dad wanted her to take over his business when he retires.

Has a small notebook of his recipes, since she has trouble memorizing all of it (also has doodles of the ingredients).

Her family’s store is barely able to keep up with the competitors. Therefore, they can’t afford certain luxury items, but aren’t exactly poor.

Her family used to tease her by nicknaming her Squeakers.

Doesn’t use her last name anymore since she doesn’t consider herself good enough to use it.

Backstory (draft):

Lived a decent happy life in the beginning. Until her parents started to arguing with each other. As a kid, she got scared and didn’t understand why they’re fighting. When they stopped, she shrugged it off, thinking that it won’t happen again.

It used to be just once in a while, but got worse as time goes on. She would always hide in her room, bury herself under the blankets, and put on her headphones to listen to music on high volume. Chí Liên tries to keep her crying as quite as possible.

Sometimes wonders if it was her fault, as they’re arguments would mainly be about Chí Liên.

She never asked anyone for help, cause she worries it would make it worse somehow.

One day she had enough and wrote a letter to them. Apologizing for not de-escalating their conflicts, instead of running away, and hoping that their lives are better and easier now that’s she’s gone. Packing up things she needs to survive and some personal stuff, she quietly left her home in the middle of the night.

Wanders around the hidden city for awhile, but went up topside for some reason and found the Grand Nexus hotel. Needing a place to stay for a bit, she snuck in and accidentally made the guests think the place was haunted. Then things happened which resulted in being tricked by Big Mama, her seal coat taken away to the vault, and now works as a medic for the fighters of the arena.

—————

During the episode ‘Bug busters’ she took her chance to stealthily get her coat back, then grabs her backpack and runs away.

Or

She got her coat back, but couldn’t muster the courage to run away and feels guilty for leaving the fighters that will need medical help from their battles

[maryannecrimsworth]

Deal

Guide for tormented hearts

Pairing: Enid Sinclair x OC! Hank Hunter(L/N)

Summary: Enid can't wolf out. She managed to hide it from Wednesday and her parents in the last two months, but now she's back at the school and every fur is excited to transform together. For the first time in years, Nevermore hired a tamer to train werewolves — no more lupin cages, they'll learn to be free. Every werewolf want to break free in the woods, but not her. Enid wants to run away, until the tamer goes after her.

Warnings: crying; emotional breakdown; werewolves fighting; Wednesday's threats; stabbing

Backstory for the "You do need a friend", Hank is Y/N's older brother.

Scenes from Chapter 3 and Chapter 4 of The Hunt [Ao3]

X

"Would you help me escape? Just for tonight." Enid whispered to Thing, who gesticulated readily in response. He suggested a way that, in addition to getting her out of school, would keep every student away from her.

"I can't! I don't want to lose my fingers for touching her clothes." The werewolf replied. Disguising herself as Wednesday wasn't a good plan, and even if it was, the werewolves of Nevermore would notice Enid's absence.

She needed to wolf out, she needed to meet her pack, she needed to be normal.

Enid threw herself back on her bed and sighed loudly, her conversation with Thing had ended in weariness and disappointment — but it wasn't even able to disturb the girl on the other side of the room.

Wednesday used the space on the side of her desk to hang a kind of mystical periodic table, with anecdotes about its substances and the potions that could be created. All of her attention was focused on the plants, roots and powders which could've composed Thornhill's potions.

Enid turned her look away from Wednesday and grabbed another stuffed bear of hers. She started to scratch it with her claws while her thoughts flew between countless situations: from her pack transforming without her to her mother discovering that she hadn't wolfed out in two months. The last two nights of full moon, spent at the Addams' house, served to remind Enid that she was called a "late bloomer" for a reason. Three stuffed animals had already gone bald when a knock came from the door.

Enid ran to the door and turned on the bedroom light before opening it. Neither she nor Wednesday had noticed the dusk.

"Hi?" She opened the door only enough to show her face. Hunter was waiting for her in the hallway of Ophelia Hall, hands stuck in his pockets and face turned red as if he wasn't allowed to be there.

"Hey." He replied in the same low tone as her. "All Furs have already gone to the woods. Are you coming?"

"I-I…" She checked the empty corridor and closed the door behind her. "I can't wolf out." She lowered her head before saying: "I'm sorry."

"It's okay." His voice made her look up again. "I can help you. I mean, I still have a few hours until the pack's meeting. Would you come with me?"

Enid followed him right away.

The night was cool and windy, the light spring breeze was lifting the leaves and ruffling the branches of the trees around the school. In the distance, you could hear the high, harmonized howls of werewolves. The Nevermore's packs had met and now they ran and fought through the forest. They were all there, with their claws and ears out, and Enid was here: sitting on a fallen log with their new handler in front of her. She felt bad for taking the time of the tamer.

"You know, this won't work. I'll just hide somewhere else and you can go meet them." Enid opened her eyes one more time and interrupted Hunter's speech. Even him looked annoyed by her behavior now.

"Just do what I tell you. If it doesn't work out, I'll take you shopping. Deal?"

"Deal."

"Close your eyes and breathe." He whispered and she obeyed. "Tell me how you first wolfed out. What happened?"

"Wednesday was in danger." Her fists clenched on her knees. "It was a red moon night. Thing came and told me and I just ran." She heard no more howls now. "She was in danger and I…I"

"You were afraid." His voice sounded like a continuity of her thoughts. "You needed to protect her."

"Yes."

"But you're still afraid. You are afraid and Wednesday's safe now."

"I..I…" Hunter didn't rush her. "I fear her. I fear she will figure out I can't— I can't—" Her breathing trembled. "I can't be her friend to death. I can't be what she wants because I'm too much. I'm too much for her. I'm too much for a pack. I'm too much for everyone." The tamer backed up a few steps as she started crying. " I can't be a werewolf. I can't be normal. I can't be as my mother wishes — I will always be alone!" A dozen branches broke together with her last words. Her speech grew and strained until a loud growl snapped out her lungs — she wasn't speaking, but howling.

"Follow my voice, Enid." The werewolf crawled in her four paws, her fangs and hot breath almost hitting Hunter's face. He lifted his hand to the pink fur on her head.

"You are a werewolf. You have a pack now. You are not alone." She grunted and leaned in towards him. "Open your eyes."

Her reaction was as lively and animalistic as possible: she jumped on the man, hitting him with her paws and licking his entire face. The tamer burst out laughing and stroked the werewolf's fur.

"Now go." And Enid followed the howls of the Nevermore’s pack.

The running and playing of the wolves kept half the school awake: every student who had forgotten his noise damper at home now suffered from the lively nature of the packs. Enid howled, fought and ran as much as the other Furs. They all came together and followed the tamer, enjoying his snacks, orders and games. His clothes were already torn and his feet already ached when three wolves stayed behind. Hunter called them, but they kept still.

He soon saw the wooden shed they surrounded.

"Hey!" he shouted as soon as the three started attacking the small construction. "Stop." But the wolves continued scratching and kicking the hut.

Hunter took a whistle from his pocket and blew it: all the canines in the area heard his command, and yet the three werewolves did not stop. Their attacks became more violent as other werewolves approached. He had brought the whistle to his mouth once more when a blow struck his back. The tamer was thrown meters forward, bursting through the doors of the shed and smashing the trestles and paintings inside it.

"ENOUGH!" he shouted, but the wooden boards continued to fall beside him — and, once all construction had been knocked down, the werewolves advanced on him. The only thing that kept Hunter from being bitten and scratched was the pink wolf's attack.

The werewolves rolled over the wreckage of the shed, the three tallest and strongest united against Enid. They roared and attacked her, their fur and ears raised as if the pink werewolf was a terrible threat.

The she-wolf stopped in front of Hunter, ready to stop any attack from reaching him. The werewolves were ready to fight — but a clap broke the sound of loud roars and splintered wood. Suddenly, all the wolves were quietened by the sound of the tamer's hands clapping.

All the furs froze and sat.

“Enid.” He spoke between heavy breaths. “Find it.”

The werewolf started to sniff the ground under Hunter’s feet, tracking down the scent that made her mates violent. The object dug up by the she-wolf was small, fragile and smelly: it caused the werewolves to howl and grunt again, but still sat due to the tamer's command.

It caused Enid to wince, grunt, and return to her human form in loud cries.

It was a teeth necklace.

X

Enid was laid down on her bed carefully and slowly.

Her previous state – scratched and bloodied – was replaced by a clean, disheveled, and tired appearance. She was fine, but she was wearing clothes that did not belong to her and her face was swollen from crying. The only thing that guaranteed her peaceful sleep were the dirt-soaked hands that guided her back to her room. Hunter took to himself whatever panic and nausea Enid had, and laid her down on the bed in her dark room.

He didn't even remember her roommate until his legs failed.

"What have you done?" Wednesday required in a dark voice once he hit the ground. 

"I could ask you the same." He grumbled from the floor, his slurred tone and speech between clenched teeth announced the kind of content he had delivered to her. It was the necklace Thing hid in Xavier’s shed, Wednesday intended to keep it in there until she figured out what was her stalker intentions. "Shit." Hunter grunted in pain.

"How d—"

"It has your Thing's scent on it." Just the remnants of the necklace's smell left on his fingertips was enough to twist his stomach.

"What's happening to you?" 

"I took her malaise." He whispered. "She needs sleep more than me." 

"Leave."

"I can't." He tried to move, but the creaking of the wooden floor created a minefield to Enid's sleep and well-being. "I can't barely see you, just pretend I'm not here." 

Wednesday grabbed his shoulders in a burst, feeling the dirt, blood, and sweat pooling on his clothes and skin. The rips in his coat caused her to touch his wounds unintentionally — and Hank desperately ran away from her hands.

But it was too late: now Wednesday fell beside him and felt all the pain he was bearing.

"Fuck, Addams. Couldn't you have just stood still?" He dragged himself a few inches closer to her, just close enough to hold her hand. The ache and nausea left her body slowly. 

Wednesday jumped away as soon as she regained her strength. "Are you a healer?"

"Sort of." He barely had a voice now. "Where did you get it? "

"It's none of your business." 

"That thing almost got the werewolves to kill each other. It is my business." 

She didn't need to answer him. In fact, Hank, now completely defenseless and weak at her feet, was the perfect suspect for her interrogation.

"I'll ask the questions now." She knelt beside Hunter, her hands and lips purposefully close to his face.

She could hear him swallowing dryly. 

"Speak." He commanded, his voice firm despite all the weakness in his body.

That only made her hate him even more.

"Who are you?"

"I'm the inuit's cursed child." Hunter admitted. "Born from a Kigatilik, I was left in the woods to die."

"And the Hunters have found you."

"Yes." She didn't understand the reason behind the sudden flaw in his voice, like a sob escaping from his heavy chest.

"Why are you truly here?"

“I’ve already told you, I came to—“ His breathing failed once the cold blade touched his neck. 

“The truth.” Wednesday reminded him. Hunter scoffed quietly and lifted his back, the knife being pressed against his skin because of his movement. He supported all his weight on one arm, leaning in forwards Wednesday. 

A drop of blood ran down his neck.

“I came after Hyde.” The knife was forced with more intensity. “ I came to tame him.”

“It can’t be tamed. It’s a beast without conscience.”

“But Tyler can be.” Hunter suddenly took the blade from her hands and sat in front of her. Their knees touched and the closeness allowed them to finally see each other's faces. Wednesday had a serious, determined look - ready to attack him if he became a threat; and Hunter, wounded, dirty and sweaty, had a steady posture, immune to Addams' intimidation. He could have easily stabbed her. “ Where did you find the necklace?”

He handed the knife back to her. 

“Buried in the woods.”

“You shouldn’t have dug up. It’s a beast trap.” Wednesday watched Hunter speaking. “Lead and an adrenaline trigger. It could kill you…and Enid .” Wednesday looked up at her roommate’s bed: she didn’t know how dangerous that scent was to the she-wolf.

“You can keep it in the greenhouse. It won’t affect no one there.” Hunter lowered his face. “I have to stay here until the smell’s gone.”

“Thing.” Wednesday delivered the necklace to him, who didn’t complain. He too wanted to keep Enid safe. The hand left the room and Hunter and Wednesday were now alone.

“I don’t trust you.” She roared.

“You shouldn’t.” He looked up at her again. “But we have a common goal. Don’t you think it is wiser to work together?” 

“I don’t.” 

“Then do it for your friends.” Hunter replied in a sharp voice. “I want to keep them safe as much as you do.”

Wednesday stood up and walked to her bed. The moonlight invading the room illuminated her back and stiff steps. 

"I see you everywhere." She whispered. " It's disturbing."

"Our leads go the same way. " He tried to stand up, but his body was still too heavy. He remained kneeling in the middle of the room. "Let me show you."

She turned her face slightly in his direction. 

"Okay. "

[galushanationalrailways]

The Fraggle Rock Story Ch. 15

Chapter 15: Sweet Eternity

Red had been knocked to the ground twice, had been drenched with water twice, had gone over a waterfall once, and had slept the previous night in a washtub. And yet this was the least of her problems. Seeing Mokey again, being held again, that was both the best and worst thing that had happened to her today.

Little did she know that, back in her own house, Mokey was thinking more or less the same thing. Try as she might to be happy, she could not help but feel something like a torch, burning the inside of her with a bright and scarlet flame. She knew what she had to do, and that was to leave Red’s general vicinity as quickly as possible. She decided rather quickly to become a romantic wanderer, as Cantus had been, but to travel alone. That made things twice as romantic.

Red remembered about this time that the only real cause of all her misery was that she had lied to Mokey. “But if I tell her the truth,” she thought, “she’ll know just how much I endangered her.”

“It’s all my fault,” thought Mokey, “she always made me feel safe and I had to go fall in love with her and endanger her. And now I’ve lied, made up a whole male version of her… Well, wandering won’t be so bad.”

“But I’ll always love her,” they both thought. “If only she knew… but it wouldn’t change a thing.”

Then Red, for once in this sorry tale, had a somewhat intelligent thought. “But what if she does love me? What if the only way I hurt her was by lying? I gotta go tell her… my brain won’t leave me alone if I don’t. She’ll probably hate me, but it’s the only way.” She limped onward to Mokey’s house.

When she arrived, Mokey was beginning to pack her things. She had placed Lanford on a wheeled cart and had put all of her mystical paraphernalia in various satchels. She also assembled a bindle which contained a stash of some very potent grasses Pa Gorg grew for medicinal purposes. She noticed a few tears escaping her eyes but decided not to sob or even sigh. She was going to leave her life behind.

“Mokey, what are you doing?” Mokey jumped, then turned around and saw that it was Red.

“Red, what are you doing?” she replied. “Er—doing here, I mean.”

“I need to talk with you.”

“About what?”

“I’ve lied to you, Mokey. I’ve told such horrible lies—about poor Gobo, about everything!”

“What do you mean? What is there to lie about?”

“I—I’m not in love with him!”

“Nonsense! I heard you kiss him while I was standing outside your door. You called him your darling, you called him hot stuff, a beautiful creature, a great big hunk of Fragglehood, a wild, impetuous boy, and then you said you loved him five times!

“You sure have some memory,” said Red. “But the truth is—wait, what’s with the suitcases? What’s with this weed bindle? Where are you going?”

“Who knows?” said Mokey. “I’ve decided to become a romantic wanderer, for a change.”

“You mean you’re leaving—forever?”

“Yes. It’s the only way. It’s safer—now that Rod’s out of the picture.”

“Oh, Mokey, can’t you understand? I don’t love Gobo, he was just trying to pour love potion down the drain and some of it got on him and I lost control and kissed him and I didn’t even want to! And I lied because otherwise you might be horribly angry with me and never want to even look at me again!”

“But why not?”

Red began to cry large, hot tears. “Because I—I—I--”

“Because you what?”

“Because I love you, Mokey!” Mokey gasped.

“You love me?”

“Yes.”

“And you thought I’d—turn you away—if you told me? So you lied?”

“Yes, Mokey, I did. I figured it would be best to--”

“You lied to me!” cried Mokey. “You had no idea how much I dreamed of you saying that you loved me, night and day, hour after hour just pining after you, yearning and yearning! You had no idea how I would lie awake at night, feeling you snuggled up against me, tortured because I thought you didn’t love me like I loved you, in absolute anguish—absolute anguish because I thought that through my love, I might only hurt you, only bring you pain, and now you show up, just as I’m about to go out as a romantic wanderer, and you tell me that you felt the exact same as I did, felt the same feelings that I felt and hurt the same way that I hurt and that you lied to me because you couldn’t believe that you, the nicest, handsomest fraggle on the entire rock could possibly be the object of my unworthy affections! You didn’t know how much I cared, endlessly, endlessly—you couldn’t believe it! And now look what a mess we’re both in—I love you, you love me, I’m all packed up to go, you—you lied—and, honestly, Red, I don’t know whether to kiss you right now for loving me or—or throw you out forever for… for lying…”

“Do what you want,” said Red. “I’m sorry…” Mokey picked her up and kissed her a second after.

“Oh, Red, I could never throw you out—never…” she said at the end of the kiss. “I love you so much I can hardly see right now…”

“What about Rod?”

“That’s right. It would really be hypocritical to throw you out—I lied too. There is no Rod. Or there is. He’s you.”

“He’s me?”

“Yes, he’s you. I just named all the characteristics of my ideal lover and put them into a man for a change. I guess, after all that dramatic talk, I was the same as you. Oh, I’m so sorry, Red, can you ever forgive me?”

“Can you forgive me?” “Yes.”

“Then kiss me again--” and they did. Nine seconds passed. Then ten. This was no kiss goodnight, this was something different. “Eleven…” Red gurgled, forgetting that she really couldn’t speak when her mouth was so intertwined with that of another. “Eleven...” Eventually, they lost count of the seconds altogether. They did not need the clock to deny their love anymore, they had admitted it.

“Oh, Red, never leave me again,” said Mokey after the withdrawl. “I want to spend the rest of my life with you, and then whatever comes after that—I want to hold you for a thousand sweet eternities, a million eons, through all the ages time has ever known or will know, through--”

“I never will—never.”

“Oh, swear it!”

“Weeba weeba woffa woffa garpox gumbage--” Before she could finish, they were kissing again.