#potions in a walnut shell

[hometoursandotherstuff]

[fuchsiaamorouscoils]

This is my new painting I completed today:

Love Potion mixed media, salvaged vintage shells, found objects, glitter, sequins on walnut panel 6 1/2 × 9 3/4 inches

Artist - Kimberly Montiel

February 8, 2024

[xandertremblay]

tw: parental death, grief

BIRTHDAY: 

Lucas and Isabella welcomed Alexander on April 17th 1952 at 11.36am. He has an Aries Sun, Scorpio Moon and Cancer Rising sign.

As an Aries Sun, he can light up a room with his charisma (please, don’t say that to his face) but will quickly move on from something that he finds to be dull. He is characterised as being someone who craves excitement, filled with a sense of restlessness in conjunction with the desire to do his own thing. Being an active sign, Aries learns best through experience.

Water signs are known for being emotional, and with Xander’s moon in Scorpio it paints him as someone who is true-hearted and sensitive, but having strong emotional needs. This sign is also a fixed sign which means when he aligns his feelings with his wants - whatever those wants may be - that he is very unlikely to compromise on them. Scorpio Moons are often described as transformative which I find funny given Xander’s metamorphmagus abilities.

Xander’s loyalty is compounded by his rising sign, even if said loyalty is not easily given for the most part, Cancer Risings characterised by showing up for those they care for especially when no one else will. They will readily make sacrifices and compromises for the people that they love. Cancer Risings are their most authentic selves when they feel like they can trust you however like the crab it represents, there is also a harder shell there that can make him seem aloof at times.

WAND OR CLAWS: 

Alexander boasts a black walnut wand with a dragon heartstring core, 11” and supple. Less common than the standard walnut wand, a black walnut wand seeks those with good instincts and a good sense of other people. 

“Good instincts,” Xander would tell anyone, “are subjective,” punctuating the sentence with a wink. “Good fashion, on the other hand, arguably less so.” 

However, the black walnut wand is strangely attuned to inner conflict, the owner’s sense of self intrinsically linked to its ability to spellcast. Paired with someone who is self-aware and sincere, it has a proclivity for charmwork. 

The length indicates he is neither arrogant nor lacking in confidence - capable of self-doubt but not in excess - and paints him as adaptable, if occasionally stubborn. 

AMORTENTIA: 

“Che cos'è?” The Italian slipped from him after taking two tentative sniffs of the air - the first of his classmates brave enough to ask what everyone was thinking - only when their potions professor looked at him with a raised brow did he correct himself. “Qu'est-ce que c'est?”

The smell of the salty sea air had always been the first smell that rose up to greet him from the cauldron where Amortentia was concerned. It reminded him of the carefree days spent travelling on the boat, Mason’s head thrown back in laughter behind the wheel as they docked, often swimming in the sun-warmed water as a way to pass the time. 

Burning wood would tickle his nostrils next, reminiscent of his solo travels and time spent huddled around an outdoor fire pit or sitting in a pub as the last embers of the fire died out for the night. It made him smile, thinking of the times he and his friends would watch the sky darken until the stars would swallow their laughter.

Now it was followed by something more bitter, although not unpleasant it had taken him a while to place. The third smell had many layers… lilac, currants, tobacco leaf, tannins… only when he’d pull out a bottle of wine from the cupboard would he be reminded of the bottle of Bordeaux he’d opened to share with Claudette after they’d gotten married. 

BOGGART: 

His boggart at present would take the form of his brother, clothed in prisoner’s robes with shackles chained around his wrists, livid about Xander’s supposed betrayal. He has dreamt about it a handful of times - not having encountered a real boggart since he was a child - first when he had been the sole inheritor of their parent’s estate, but the dreams had come more frequently since Mason’s sentence to a lifetime in Azkaban. It was hard to separate dreams from reality until he was blinking up at his bedroom ceiling, chest heaving and sheets damp with sweat.

PATRONUS OR NO PATRONUS:

Xander might have had a hope of casting a patronus when his parents were alive, or when his relationship with his brother hadn’t been stretched so thin to the point of breakage, though now he doesn’t believe he could. He’s tried, even if it was just to know that he could, and one time he almost succeeded. Almost.

Love. Wasn’t love the root in which some of his happiest memories blossomed from? He remembers Lucas’s grin when Xander had bought him tea after his father had spent hours in his office, offering a second opinion because he was ‘old enough now’ to be involved. Isabella straightening his bowtie before graduation as pride glistened in her eyes, Mason leaning off the bow of their boat to pet Xander the, still-transfigured, shark after scaring away a particularly troublesome wix, and Claudette smiling at him with the smallest glimmer of warmth that had made his heart flutter. 

The charm was whispered quietly under his breath, a wish more so than a command. Disbelieving eyes widening at the wisp of light that emerges from the end of his wand. It wasn’t corporeal, no, but it was something. And had it been whole, it would’ve been an octopus.

WRITING SAMPLE:

[Okay, so while writing about his wand I had a little idea of Xander struggling with not being honest with his feelings after his parents died and trying to keep up appearances for the sake of his family name.]

“Lumos,” the tip of his wand illuminates for the briefest of moments before fading out. Xander turns the wand over in his left hand again and again as a sign passes his lips. He’d never had reason to doubt his wand until now, the younger incarnation of himself laughing at the thought of a wand betraying its master, though as he stares down at the instrument at hand now he isn’t entirely certain. 

“Tu dois être honnête avec toi-même.” You need to be honest with yourself. Eyes widened, his father’s voice echoing inside his head, glancing down at his own reflection in the mirror that sat on Lucas’ desk. Left index finger ran along the curve of his nose - his father’s nose, as many would say - as he watched himself carefully in the mirror. “Confringo,” the movement is sudden, surprising even himself, as the decoration is sent flying across his father’s office. 

He hadn’t let himself be angry, to feel deceived by the mountain of debt that his parents had left him with, there hadn’t been time. Both compliment and disservice that he had been given everything, Xander now had to reconcile that information while attempting to piece together the shards of his sibling relationship and keep the power the Tremblay family name once held. It felt good though, even just for that moment, to let some of the pressure out, he thinks. The wizard glanced down at his wand, the instrument now seeming to hum with something akin to satisfaction.

“You don’t need to be so smug about it,” the brunet grumbled, suppressing a laugh at how ridiculous it would have seemed to anyone else who came in at that moment. He felt better though, for now.

[wikkafragrance]

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[neurodiverse-adulthood]

Forbidden snacks unforbidden

Disclaimer: do not eat anything you are allergic, intolerant, or sensitive to! Moderate your diet according to your needs. Seek a dietician's help with this if needed.

CTRL + F to search for keywords in the list

* = only taste safe-- not meant to be eaten straight but eating a little won't kill you

Bar soap: avocado, banana, mango, dried papaya, peach, pear, ice, cereal, cheese, peanut butter oat balls, giant pretzels/pretzel bites/pretzel bun, crackers, steamed rice cake, butter, flan, cake, chocolate bar/melts, candy melts, gum*, candy corn, freeze dried ice cream, popsicles, taffy, Charleston Chews, tootsie rolls, fondant, valentine heart candies, Rice Krispie treats

Bone, teeth, metal: white foods, silver foods, bone/tooth-shaped foods, ice, raw baby carrots, almonds, walnuts, other nuts, frozen fruit/vegetables, ribs, chicken legs, bone-in wings, T-bone steak, uncooked pasta, edible tree bark, edible skins/shells of some foods, pretzel sticks, cereal, cookie straws, candy canes, valentine message heart candies, Takis, hard candy, snowcone, suckers/lollipops, chocolate coins, Whoppers candy, frozen chocolate/candy, popsicles

Chalk, coal, makeup: Parmesan cheese, spices, seasoning, puffed rice cakes, cereal, powdered/icing sugar, edible sands, drink flavoring, ground up crackers/chips/cookies, Whoppers candy, smarties, sweet tarts, mints, freeze dried ice cream, sprinkles, fun dip, pixie stix, cotton candy, valentine message heart candies, mints

Cosmetic creams, whipped soap, spackle: yogurt, peanut/etc butter, cream cheese, sour cream, hummus, condiments, butter, thick drink, Nutella, frosting, whipped cream, ice cream, pudding, candy gel, marshmallow fluff

Dice, marbles, coins, trinkets: ice, polyhedral candy, frozen peas, frozen fruit, banana chips, other dried fruit, Kix/Cap'n Crunch/Cocoa Puffs, Lucky Charms, other cereal, cheese cubes, snacks shaped like trinkets, mini pepperonis, seed beads, jawbreakers, Whoppers candy, jolly ranchers, candy shaped like trinkets, chocolate chips, Tic Tacs, mints, decorative sugar pieces, valentine message heart candies, sugar cubes, candy coins, candy legos/bricks, gum*

Dog/pet treats: foods cut into bone/fish/etc shapes, banana, blueberries, sweet potato, dried fruit, deli meat, fish, red meat, bacon, pepperoni, poultry, bread, pasta, crackers, Cheerios, Rice Krispies cereal, other cereal, human-safe dog treats, cookies, oatmeal, peanut butter oat balls, granola, jerky, Slim Jims, cooked bugs or worms, mints, gummies, sprinkles

Dough, clay, puddy: mashed potatoes, sweet potato, avocado, peanut/other butter, peanut butter oat balls, noodles/pasta, gravy, pancakes, fondant, yogurt dough, Kool-Aid dough, cocoa dough, peeps playdoh, Nutella dough, peanut/etc butter dough, warm chocolate, warm candy corn, taffy, egg-free cookie dough, ice cream, thick frosting, Charleston Chews, caramels, marshmallow fluff

Fabric, foam/sponge, slowrise squishies: peach, apple, pear, cucumber, watermelon, dried fruit, puffed rice cakes, Chinese steamed rice cakes, bread, pita bread, muffins, shredded jerky, giant soft pretzels, Rice Krispies, cake, donuts, pancakes/waffles, fondant, soft cookies, freeze dried ice cream, pop tart bites, cotton candy, marshmallow, dried apple

Glitter: cake luster dust, crushed/ground ice, warmed sugar, crushed/ground hard candy

Glitter bottles, potions, glowsticks, cleaning products: cake luster dust in any beverage, edible fluorescent colorant in any beverage, citrus juice, water with lemon, water with orange, water with grapefruit, water with other citrus fruit, dyed beverage

Inedible plants and flowers: lettuce, spinach, kale, cabbage, peas, carrots, corn, pumpkin, other veggies, watermelon, peach, apple, mango, banana, dragonfruit, pineapple, grapes, cherries, strawberries, other fruits, dried fruits, skins of some fruits/vegetables, mushrooms, seeds, nuts, herbal tea, dandelions, other edible flowers, herb seasonings, edible tree bark, breath strips, edible rice paper, edible sugar paper, edible money wafers, edible grass candy, cotton candy, gushers, wax bottle soda candies, decorative sugar pieces, gel/juice-filled gummies/candy, gel/juice-filled gum*, shredded gum*

Jelly soap: peaches, other fruit, dried papaya, pumpkin, jelly/jam, gummies, Jell-O, agar, candy gel, gel/juice-filled gummies/candy, gel/juice-filled gum*, gum*, edible/xylitol-based toothpaste*

Lava, liquid soap, molten glass, wax: hot drink, thick drink, soup, oatmeal, sauce, gravy, dip, dipping/nacho cheese, honey, nectar, jelly/jam, condiments, beverage flavoring syrups, soda/juice, syrup, pudding, caramel, melted candy/chocolate, melted butter, candy gel, edible/xylitol-based toothpaste*, fondant, milk duds, gum*

Lipstick, candles: cheese, Baby Bell cheese, butter, avocado, mango, dried mango, dried papaya, banana, raisins, pepperoni, pasta, gummies, wax bottle soda candies, candy melts, chocolate melts, frozen pudding, fruit rollups, gushers, marshmallow, fondant, starburst, candy corn, pudding, taffy, tootsie rolls, milk duds, candy buttons, jolly ranchers, Charleston Chews, candy gel, valentine message heart candies, caramels, gum*

Mochi squishies, silicone/rubber, fungi: peaches, pears, avocado, dried mango, dried papaya, mushrooms, eggs, beans, tongue, fish, medium red meat, other meats, dried fruit, noodles/pasta, dumplings, cheese, yogurt, Chinese steamed rice cakes, butter, seed beads, cheese curds, gummies, caramels, taffy, tootsie rolls, marshmallow, milk duds, Charleston Chews, candy gel, agar, gum*

Orbeez, animal eggs: eggs, peas, blueberries, grapes, baby tomatoes, peaches, acini di pepe/pastina, boba, dippin dots, gummies, Jell-O, agar, seed beads, mini marshmallows, gumballs*, candy buttons, milk duds, Kix cereal

Paint, ink, makeup, glue: soup, sauces, gravy, dip, peanut/etc butter, honey, nectar, syrup, caramel, condiments, cream cheese, sour cream, frosting, icing, whipped cream, ice cream, dyed beverage, pie filling, pudding, candy gel, melted candy/chocolate

Paper and cardboard: skins of some fruits/vegetables, iceberg lettuce, spinach, kale, cabbage, puffed rice cakes, Kix, Cheerios, Rice Krispies cereal, other cereal, breath strips, edible rice/sugar paper, edible money wafers, crackers, ice cream cone, pizzelle, fruit rollups, fruit by the foot, frozen chocolate, frozen pudding, freeze dried ice cream

Pills and medicine: ice, beans, nuts, seeds, frozen peas, frozen blueberries, corn, acini di pepe/pastina, rice, cereal, soda/juice, dyed beverage, empty gelatin/edible capsules, jellybeans, jolly ranchers, Tic Tacs, mints, Mike n Ike's, sweet tarts pills, nerds, gushers, smarties, sweet tarts, valentine message heart candies, sprinkles, small hard candies, gel/juice-filled gummies/candy, gel/juice-filled gum*, fake blood capsules*

Pottery, ceramic, porcelain: nuts, seeds, ice, dried fruit, avocado, banana, cheese, puffed rice cakes, granola, cereal, pancakes/waffles, bread, crackers, pita chips, pita bread, uncooked pasta, uncooked Ramen, Ice Chips, ice cream cone, pizzelle, frozen chocolate/candy, frozen pudding, freeze dried ice cream, popsicles, cookies, Whoppers candy, smarties, sweet tarts, mints, chocolate bar, valentine message heart candies, edible rice/sugar paper, edible money wafers, hard candy, mints

Rocks, crystals, beads: nuts, seeds, ice, table salt, beans, tea, jerky bites, meat chunks, acini di pepe/pastina, couscous, cheese cubes, uncooked Ramen, popcorn, popsicles, crystallized honey, jelly/jam, frozen honey/syrup, dyed beverage, boba, mints, crushed crackers/cookies, chocolate rocks, crystal sticks, freeze dried ice cream, jawbreakers/gobstoppers, nerds, hard candy, decorative sugar pieces, Cheerios, other cereal, sprinkles, jellybeans, chocolate chips, candy legos/bricks, ring pops, dippin dots, crystal/rock sugar, sugar cubes, frozen chocolate/candy, jolly ranchers, suckers/lollipops, ring pops, gum*, Whoppers candy, dippin dots, valentine message heart candies, seed beads, candy necklace, candy bracelet, mints

Sand and soil: couscous, quinoa, rice, poppy seeds, other small seeds, Parmesan cheese, spices, seasoning, edible fake dirt, ground up cereal, ground up crackers/chips/cookies, brown sugar sand, flour sand*, Kool-Aid sand, crumbled cake, sugar, powdered/icing sugar, pixie stix, fun dip, ground up hard candy, crushed Whoppers candy

Sea glass, plastic, resin/rosin: ice, Ice Chips, uncooked pasta, iceberg lettuce, cucumber, watermelon, chips, pita chips, crackers, sorbetto/flavored ice, frozen honey/syrup, caramels, popsicles, breath strips, mints, edible rice/sugar paper, edible money wafers, jolly ranchers, fruit rollups, fruit by the foot, crystal sticks, crystal/rock sugar, fondant, clear suckers/lollipops, clear hard candy, crushed hard candy, mints

Slime, puddy: thick soup, thick beverage, melted/liquid cheese, sauce, gravy, jelly/jam, dip, yogurt, edible oobleck*, fondant, candy gel, Jell-O, Nutella slime, pudding slime, pizza slime, seed slime, syrup slime, psyllium slime*, starburst slime, chocolate slime (1-2-3-4-5), bubblegum slime, Kool-aid slime, milk slime, taffy, caramels, egg-free cookie dough, gum*, edible doughs, marshmallow fluff

Tide pods: seaweed water pouch/bubble/bottle, baby tomatoes, peas, grapes, blueberries, pb&j, Uncrustables, gushers, pop tart bites, gummies, mentos, wax bottle soda candies, jelly donut holes, Reese's, Jell-O, tide pod jello shots, tootsie pops, gel/juice-filled gummies/candy, gel/juice-filled gum*

Wood: ice, uncooked pasta, edible tree bark, edible tree bark tea, pine/tree tea, puffed rice cakes, granola, almonds, pine/tree nuts, other nuts, seeds, sunflower seeds with shell, poppy seeds, dried fruit, jerky, uncooked pasta, uncooked Ramen, chips, crackers, waffle cone, Kit Kat's, Twix, pretzels, pretzel chips, cookie straws, ochre, canned bamboo, canned sugar cane

Yarn, string, wire: spaghetti squash, pumpkin, shredded fruits/vegetables, grated fruits/vegetables, banana, pulled pork, celery, honey sticks, string cheese, shredded/grated cheese, noodles/pasta, Ramen, mozzarella sticks, jerky, hot pizza, shredded gum*, Spaghettieis, sour straws, nerds ropes, gummy worms, cotton candy, fruit by the foot, fondant strands, edible candy grass

[pigeoncoffee]

ultimate single word island names list

as you all know i loved single word town names on new leaf.. whilst ive been brainstorming names for my new horizons island i’ve compiled the ultimate single word island names list!

enjoy!

Ocean/water words: • Brook • Bay • Boat • Canal • Coral • Cove • Creek • Current • Deep • Dock • Drench • Driftwood • Drip • Drain • Gulf • Kelp • Lake • Marine • Pond • Reservoir • River • Rinse • Rill • Rockpool • Sail • Sailboat • Scuba • Spring • Snorkel • Stream • Sea • Seaweed • Seabed • Surf • Swamp • Tarn • Tide • Tidepool • Water • Yacht

Summer/Beach words: • Coast • Conch • Dock • Dune • Harbour • Palmtree • Pier • Summer • Sand • Sandcastle • Shell • Seaside • Shore • Sunburn • Sunscreen • Wharf • Vacation • Voyage

Fish/Aquatic animal words: • Barnacle • Clam • Carp • Crab • Eel • Fin • Flounder • Herring • Limpet • Lobster • Mackerel • Otter • Oyster • Plankton • Salmon • Scallop • Shark • Shrimp • Starfish • Stingray • Squid • Sunfish • Tadpole • Trout

Animal/habitat words: • Antler • Ant • Anthill • Burrow • Bee • Beehive • Bumble • Barn • Bat • Bug • Cobweb • Den • Fleece • Fur • Gull • Hive • Hornet • Honeybee • Ladybug • Ladybird • Nest • Paddock • Raven • Roost • Rook • Seagull • Snail • Toad • Web

Plant/flowers words: • Aloe • Bud • Bamboo • Bloom • Clover • Cosmos • Daffodil • Fern • Heather • Lily • Lilypad • Leaf • Lotus • Orchid • Orchard • Palm • Petal • Primrose • Rose • Stem • Seed • Sprout • Tulip • Wilt • Wilted

Forest words: • Acorn • Birch • Branch • Bramble • Bark • Chestnut • Elm • Elder • Fir • Grove • Juniper • Maple • Oak • Sycamore • Stump • Sap • Sapling • Spruce • Tree • Twig • Thicket • Wood • Yew

Other outdoor words: • Acre • Bury • Barren • Cavern • Cave • Cliff • Coal • Dale • Dell • Earth • Field • Fossil • Garden • Hill • Henge • Hedge • Isle • Island • Lawn • Leaves • Mountain • Meadow • Marsh • Moor • Moss • Nature • Peak • Pebble • Rock • Root • Stone • Shire • Thorn • Uproot • Vale • Valley • Vineyard

Food words: • Avocado • Berry • Butter • Chai • Cider • Cake • Coffee • Coconut • Currant • Egg • Eggshell • Eggnog • Fig • Fudge • Honey • Honeycomb • Icecream • Jam • Jelly • Lemon • Mushroom • Muffin • Mocha • Nut • Pancake • Pear • Pea • Pie • Peanut • Pickle • Popsicle • Radish • Rice • Raisin • Rum • Sesame • Sushi • Syrup • Toast • Walnut

Herb/spices names: • Basil • Chive • Cinnamon • Clove • Dill • Fennel • Herb • Mustard • Nutmeg • Parsley • Saffron • Sage • Spice • thyme

Calm words: • Airy • Away • Awe • Aura • Calm • Drowsy • Dream • Hope • Haven • Haze • Lazy • Lull • Nurture • Quiet • Relax • Rest • Safe • Soft • Serene • Slumber • Silent • Yawn

Cosy Words: • Blanket • Boots • Cotton • Cosy • Cinder • Flannel • Glove • Knit • Knitted • Mitten • Quilt • Raincoat • Sweater • Slipper • Teapot • Teacup • Warmth • Weave • Woven • Yarn

Cute words: • Adore • Blush • Bonny • Cupid • Cuddle • Dainty • Delicate • Ethereal • Fluff • Giggle • Glitter • Lovely • Precious • Sweet • Wonder

City/Town/Building words: • Cabin • Camp • Campsite • Cottage • Home • House • Igloo • Inn • Loft • Mill • Market • Park • Road • Shelter • Street • Tunnel • Tavern • Village • Ville

Weather/time of day words: • Blizzard • Dusk • Dawn • Draft • Drizzle • Downpour • Fog • Flood • Flurry • Gust • Hail • Humid • Mist • Misty • Midnight • Noon • Night • Overcast • Rain • Rainfall • Raindrop • Rainbow • Rise • Storm • Soleil • Sunset • Sun • Season • Sleet • Typhoon • Thunder • Weather • Wind

Seasonal words: Spring/Easter: • April • Crisp • Dew • Dewdrop • Easter • Farm • Farmyard • Floral • Florist • Flourish • Grow • Growth • Hatch • June • Plantpot

Autumn/Halloween: • Afraid • Bale • Bonfire • Cackle • Casket • Creep • Coffin • Costume • Carve • Cemetery • Chilling • Disguise • Eerie • Fall • Fright • Frighten • Firework • Grave • Ghoul • Ghost • Grim • Gore • Hay • Harvest • Howl • Haunt • Haunted • Halloween • Lantern • Morbid • November • Phantom • Rake • Strange • Scream • Scare • Spook • Tomb • Trick • Wicked • Witch • Warlock • Zombie

Winter/Christmas: • Arctic • Chill • Carol • Elf �� Festive • Frost • Frostbite • Firewood • Gift • Garland • Holly • Holiday • Ice • Iced • Icy • Icicle • Jingle • Jolly • Merry • Noel • Nativity • Ornament • Present • Reindeer • Rudolph • Scrooge • Sleigh • Snow • Skate • Snowman • Snowball • Stocking • Tinsel • Winter • Wreath • Yule • Yulelog

Mystical words: • Amulet • Cauldron • Chalice • Conjure • Coven • Charm • Cherub • Enchant • Fairy • Fairies • Gargoyle • Goblet • Goblin • Golem • Gnome • Hidden • Hex • Imp • Myth • Nymph • Potion • Spirit • Sprite • Spell • Secret • Shadow • Siren • Wand • Wander

Gem stone words: • Amethyst • Amber • Jasper • Jade • Onyx • Opal • Sapphire • Topaz • Quartz

Colour words: • Bronze • Blush • Fuchsia • Hazel • Ivory • Linen • Ochre • Pale • Peach • Pewter • Sepia • Seafoam • Tawny

Space words: • Aurora • Asteroid • Cosmic • Crescent • Eclipse • Gravity • Luna • Mercury • Meteor • Moon • Nebula • Orbit • Planet • Solar • Star • Venus • Zodiac

Direction words: • Around • Across • Above • East • Far • North • Over • South • Under • West

Other words: • Ash • Ablaze • Beam • Backpack • Dust • Ever • Edge • End • Echo • Cranny • Comb • Frail • Gutter • Hole • Lune • Lush • Letter • Nimble • Nook • Old • Plain • Paper • Rinse • Range • Ridge • Rust • Rusted • Rot • Rotted • Silk • Set • Settle • Sponge • Swelter • Swell • Smog • Urn • Umbrella • Vain • Vile • View • Way • World

[saiyuri-dahlia]

Musings on  Ember Seeds and Volga

There’s a short idea that I’ve been trying to write for “How to Tame Your Volga” that’s just not coming together, but I wanna talk about because I do find it amusing. It’s a really small idea that would be okay for a small comic, but not so much a fic—it would be short drabble at best.

Anyway, the idea is that Link and Volga come across some ember seeds. I’m fond of this official art for the Oracle games, and the Oracle games in general:

Now, the way I imagine ember seeds to be is that there’s a large round seed, about the size of a black walnut, in the middle of all that silk, and when the shell of the seed is broken, it combusts and the surrounding silk ignites. It probably has a flavor similar to either a black walnut or a cashew that’s intensified when it’s roasted, though it’s really hard to cook with it without causing it to burst into flames, though it’s possible to. You can certainly extinguish the flames, but you might not be left with much material to cook with, and what’s there might be all char.

So neither Link and Volga have seen ember seeds before, but Volga remarks that it has a pleasant aroma—it’s pleasant to him but it’s more of a burning cooking oil scent to Link. Being an unfamiliar plant in a world where eating certain plants and animals can do all sorts of funky things to his body, Link’s first instinct is to take a bite out of it. Y’know, see what happens and whether it makes good eatin’.

Thankfully Volga is even more impatient than Link and takes a bite of his first, and Link sees the ember seed violently burst into flames. This is thankfully enough to make him stop, though there’s a part of him that still wants to try it. Volga, meanwhile, is chewing away like it’s an apple. That happens to be on fire. There’s flames in his hand and in his mouth, and he keeps biting into it, unfazed. Ember seeds wind up being very delicious to Volga, though certain fairies in their company also like ember seeds so there’s much fussing between them. He likes them as is, but he finds them quite tasty in a Goron curry. He can be bribed with ember seeds, to a certain extent and it does depend on the person offering.

Link does make it a priority to learn where all the ember trees in the world are and how to prepare/cook with ember seeds properly. He starts planting more trees in and around Eldin and near his hometown. He gets really good at making Volga’s favorite dishes and experiments and creates his own, like making giant meat buns with a whole ember seed in the center—Dragon Volga can eat these in a few bites all nice and neatly, but “human” Volga chomps down on them voraciously and it’s scary to watch.

There was a version of this idea where Impa was scolding Link in the medical tent because he did bite into his ember seed and burnt up his entire mouth and throat, and it ended with a cut to Volga eating from a basket of ember seeds like they were nothing. And a similar other version where Link is in great pain from all his burns, red potions aren’t healing him quick enough, so Volga flies off to find a certain plant dragons use for burns for hatchlings when they’re just learning to breathe fire.

[mariamnk07]

A Jar of Sunshine

I have a jar that I keep on my windowsill. It's filled up with little things like glitter,dried flowers, necklaces and jewellery,wax stamps. Also with notes from my friends, little scraps of pretty papers,dried tea bags that I enjoyed. What else? Little buttons, strings and yarns, walnut shells, sequins from an old blouse. That jar is almost like a potion jar,I'm no witch but it sure does stir up magic in me when I think of it.

[versesforthedew]

IN THE BELLY OF A CROW

You see me rigid and cold,

Tears frozen on my cheeks,

Lips sewn in a thin line,

And you ask me

Where my heart is.

My heart is a dark red leaf

In the belly of a crow,

The crow is in a golden egg,

The egg in a deep well,

The well in a castle with no windows nor doors,

The castle on an island in the middle of a lake,

The lake on the west side of the Moon.

Yes, it's like a story of old,

Except I am not a giant hiding her vulnerability,

Looking for immortality.

I am just a girl who used to feel too much

And chose not to feel anything at all.

The frost has been seeping inside my blood for a while now,

I am more icicle than woman,

Yet still more human than I'd like to be.

You see, my heart may be far away but it still beats,

And longs for the egg to hatch,

Longs to feel what it's like to fly.

Here I am, torn between apathy

And the faraway echoes of yearning.

I ask you to set me free, young man.

Ride a grey wolf west of the Moon,

Turn this walnut shell into a boat,

Drink this potion to turn into an ant and crawl inside the castle,

Ask a fish to give you the golden egg,

Break it with this diamond hammer,

Kill the crow with an arrow

And then bring my heart back

Or stab it, either choice

Is better than this half death half life.

Go with my blessing and my curse.

Go, and you shall be a hero.

Old tears are frozen on my cheeks.

My heart is a dark red leaf in the belly of a crow.

I don't breathe. Then I do. It is my last.

F. P.

Based on the prompt "Dark red leaves" by @softest-apollo

[pagan-witch-yo]

Texas edition: Correspondences

Agave 🌿Lust, fire, masculinity, mars. Used in lust potions. 

Wormwood 🌿This plant can be poisonous in high doses! Psychic powers, protection, love, masculinity, calling spirits, mars, fire. Burn to call spirits and aid in psychic powers, carry to protect against sea serpents and witchcraft, hang in your vehicle to protect from accidents, can be used in love magic. 

Bee Balm 🌼Healing, femininity, moon, water, success, love. Used in love magic, healing magic, and success magic. 

Daisy 🌼Feminity, water, venus, love, lust. Sleep with its root under your pillow to attract an absent lover, wear to bring love. 

Fern 🌿Air, mercury, masculinity, protection, rain-making, fortune, luck, health, exorcism, youth. Put in floral arrangments for protection, plant at the door for protection or keep inside the home, wear or carry to guide yourself to treasure, burn the dried herb to rid yourself of evil spirits, burn outside to call rain or get rid of snakes and noisy creatures, 

Sagebrush 🌿Femininity, earth, venus, purification, cleansing. Burn to get rid of negative entities and energy, and bathe with it to purify yourself. 

Aster 🌼Venus, femininity, water, love. Placed on Greek altars, used in love magic, carry to win love, and grow to wish for love. 

Rose 🌼Feminity, water, venus, psychic powers, love, healing, love divination, protection. Used in love magic, drink to induce prophetic dreams, used in healing magic, used in fast-luck magic, use for protection. 

Violet 🌼Venus, femininity, luck, love, peace, wishes, lust, healing, protection, water. Carry flowers to protect yourself and to bring on fortune and wealth, wear to induce sleep, mix with lavender for a strong stimulant and arousing blend. 

Rosemary 🌿Fire, protection, masculinity, sun, lust, love, mental powers, purification, youth, healing, sleep, exorcism. A very powerful cleansing tool when burned, place beneath your pillow to attract a good nights sleep, bathe in it to stay young, smell its smoke to attract knowledge, some say it can dispel depression, used in love magic, lay it under your bed to protect you from harm. 

Skullcap 🌿Femininity, water, Saturn, faithfulness, peace, love. Use in relaxation and peace spells, some say if a woman wears scullcap her husband won’t be charmed by another woman. 

Goldenrod 🌿Femininity, venus, money, divination, air. Use in love divination, the flower is said to drift in the direction of a lost object when held, and its good to use in money spells. 

Yucca 🌿Masculinity, fire, mars, transformation, protection, purification. Some say if you jump through a hoop of yucca fibers or wear one on your head you can take on the form of whatever you desire, used to cast evil out of the home. 

Yarrow 🌼Courage, love, femininity, venus, water, psychic powers, exorcism. Wear to protect yourself, hold to stop fear and welcome courage as well as bring love and attract friends, use in love magic, make a potion from the dried flowers and drink to improve psychic powers, and use to exorcise evil. 

Ivy 🌿Saturn, femininity, water, healing, protection. Women carry it for good luck, grow to protect against negativity, use in faithfulness and love charms. 

Primrose 🌼Venus, femininity, earth, love, protection, significant to Freya. Blue and red primrose attract faeries and protect the garden from trouble and adversity, can represent sadness, or can be carried to attract love. 

Mallow 🌼Femininity, moon, protection, exorcism, water, love. Carry to attract love, place in a vase in the window if you’ve lost your love in order to maybe attract them back, make into a salve to cast out evil from your body. 

Hydrangea 🌼Burn, carry or scatter to break a hex or curse. 

Grass 🌾Protection, psychic powers. Tie knots in the grass around the house to protect it, carry for psychic powers, mark wishes on stones with grass then bury the stone or throw it into running water, hang to dispel evil. 

Holly 🌲Fire, protection, anti-lightning, dream magic, luck, masculinity, mars. One of the best protective herbs out there, throw at wild animals to get rid of them, put beneath your pillow to make your dreams come true, hang for good luck around yule or carry to promote good luck. 

Oak 🌳Divination, prosperity, strength, victory, healing, masculinity, fire, the sun, protection, fertility. Use in protection magic and to protect against evil. Carry to protect yourself against harm. This tree has been revered in magic for a very long time. 

Pecan 🌳Money, air, mercury, employment, masculinity. Shell and eat pecans while imagining yourself enjoying your work in order to keep your job and keep the shells in a very hidden place, use in success and money spells.

Juniper 🌲Healing, survival, masculinity, the sun, fire, protection, love, anti-theft, health. Use in protection rituals, cook with the berry (sauerbraten is delicious!), hang on the door to protect from evil entering, carry the berries for male potency, wear to protect against animal attacks, use in love magic, and burn to break curses and enhance psychic powers. 

Elm 🌳Love, Saturn, water, feminity. Use to protect against lightning strikes and carry to attract love. 

Cedar 🌲Sun, masculinity, fire, money, purification, protection, healing. Use the smoke to purify a space and to cure bad dreams, hang to protect against lightning, use, in love magic, place near home to protect against evil, burn to induce psychic powers. 

Mesquite 🌳Healing, moon, water, femininity. Use as fuel for a magic fire or as incense for healing. 

Magnolia 🌳Feminity, venus, fidelity, earth. Keep near or beneath the bed to maintain faithfulness in a relationship. 

Mimosa 🌳Saturn, water, feminity, love, protection, purification, prophetic dreams. Scatter around a space to purify it, place mimosa under your pillow and sleep on it to have prophetic dreams, use in love and healing magic, and bathe on it to get rid of hexes and protect against future problems. 

Cypress 🌲Earth, Saturn, feminity, healing, longevity, comfort, protection. Eases the mind and aids grief if carried at funerals, best used in times of crisis, use to invoke gods, grow near home to protect it, burn for healing, and use in immortality magic.

Willow 🌳Femininity, the moon, love, protection, divination, healing, water. Carry to attract love, make a wand out of it for moon magic, use all parts for healing magic or protection, or make a broom out of it!

Walnut 🌳Fire, sun, mental powers, infertility, masculinity, wishes. Carry to strengthen the heart, known to attract lightning, if given a bag of walnuts your wishes will come true, carry in a hat to prevent headaches. 

Pine 🌲Purification, banishing negative energy, defense magic, protection, clarity of mind, spirit communication, healing, growth, inspiration, confidence when carried, good for legal matters. Burn to awaken its properties.

[glass-phoenix]

TRP Flag: Zayneth Shadowspite - Glass Phoenix

Directory Information: Race: Sin’dorei Class: Musician Age: Adult Eye Color: Fiery fel green Height: 6′0″ Body Shape: 178 lbs. (Muscular, heavily built) Birthplace: Sunsail Anchorage Residence: Silvermoon City

Additional Information: Pronunciation: “Zay-neth” Nicknames: Zay, Zayne, Phoenix, Demon-Fingers Scars: Severe burn scars around missing eyes, though hidden by a robust illusion. Affiliations: Scryers, Armies of Legionfall Vitality: Healthy and well. Languages: Thalassian, Common, Orcish, some Draconic

Personality Traits: Chaste (5) < Lustful (15) Altruistic (14) > Selfish (6) Compassionate (15) > Monstrous (5) Cautious (3) < Impulsive (17) Playful (17) > Serious (3) Swords (19) > Spells (1) Extroverted (7) < Introverted (13)

Physical Description: On the short side of average height and blessed with broad shoulders and sturdy muscles, this elf is generally unremarkable amid a sea of very pretty people. His jaw is usually bearing a day-old blond scruff and his long hair seems more like carelessness than fashion. Close inspection reveals that his eyes seem slightly off, glassy and imperfect at tracking those around him. He gives no impression that he finds it difficult to see. Lately, he's been spotted wearing a worn strip of red leather across his eyes like a demon hunter.

His clothes are generally sturdy leather or netherweave. He speaks quietly, puts on no airs, and often keeps to himself. Those who get so close into his personal space as to be uncomfortable for all parties may realize he smells like incense smoke.

History: Records in Silvermoon City list the Shadowspite family as mercenary soldiers of no noble line. Only one family member is listed as 'living' though two remain on record.Supporters of Kael'thas in the months after the destruction of the Sunwell may recall Zayneth and a tall, burly woman among his followers. Those with very clear memories of that time may know that he followed Kael'thas to Outland and was among the Sunfury who lost faith in the Sun King in the end. A few demon hunters may recognize him as one thought to have died on his first hunt near the Hand of Gul'dan in Shadowmoon Valley.

Some people may have seen this soft-spoken, quiet man playing guitar on a street corner in a northern residential district of Silvermoon with a hat set out for coins. Others may have seen him with the Succulent Tart performance arts troupe, or blowing glass in a small shop in the Bazaar district.

----------

Demon hunter: This character has been written as a "failed," washed-out demon hunter who never attained full hunter status. Over the course of the Legion expansion, he'll have that second chance. He's never been to Mardum, nor shares the experience of years locked in the Wardens' Cage.

At First Glance:

Smells like... Woodsy incense and warm leather.

Shiny! Wearing a pendant of a small, silver penguin on a silver chain.

Blindfolded Wearing a strip of well-worn red leather across the bridge of his nose. It's all the rage these days.

* Bright eyes. Really bright. Fiery bright. Woah, dude, lay off the fel magic.

* The Old Lady (his guitar...) A guitar of golden-amber wood with a sense of age, years of heavy use warming a fretboard inlaid with a delicate pattern of vines in mother-of-pearl. A wide, dark strip of walnut decorates the back of the body of the instrument. Well-used and well-loved.

Currently (IC): Black leather? Check. Muscled arms? Check. Charming smile? Check.

Other Information (OOC): I like big words and I cannot lie. http://glass-phoenix.tumblr.com

Inventory:

Worn Blindfold Armor          Head “A well-worn strip of red leather, tied across the eyes.”

Silver Penguin Pendant Jewelry          Necklace “A small silver pendant of a penguin on a silver chain, engraved ‘Z.S. - Tournament of Ages - Penguin Dip Champion’.”

The Old Lady Instrument          Guitar A guitar of golden-amber wood with a sense of age, years of heavy use warming a fretboard inlaid with a delicate pattern of vines in mother-of-pearl. A wide, dark strip of walnut decorates the back of the body of the instrument. Well-used and well-loved.

Lava Rock Bracelet Jewelry          Bracelet “A bracelet of pitted black lava rock, livened up by a rainbow of seven colored beads: carnelian, amber, tiger’s eye, serpentine, turquoise, lapis, and amethyst.”

Set of Keys Tool          Keys “A set of jangly keys! There’s several of varying shapes and styles.”

Simple Dagger Weapon          Dagger “A small, simple dagger of good steel and minimalist design, meant as a back-up or last resort weapon.”

Portable Nether Pocket Container          Bag “A small netherweave pouch with a flap that unfolds to give it a much wider opening than it seems. Might actually be a pocket dimension.”       Glass Eyes      Prosthetic          Enchanted      “A pair of enchanted glass orbs which are nigh impossible to crack or break.”      -----      Brown Bucket Hat      Armor          Head      “A battered old brown bucket hat.”

Oversized Hand-knit Blanket Decor “An oversized hand-knitted blanket.”

Box of T&R Chocolates Container          Box “A box of chocolates from T&R Chocolatiers.”      The Devil Cordial      Consumable          Food      “Ghost chili in coconut milk-tequila creme in dark chocolate shell.”      Use: Enjoy a chocolate.

Moonlight Orb Trinket “A light-weight glass orb about five inches in diameter. Enchanted to glow with a soft, white light.”

Refreshing Massage Oil Consumable          Cosmetic “Swiftthistle and peacebloom are combined in a lovely mixture which increases mental clarity and provides a pick-me-up any time of day or night.”

Nagrand Sky Pillow Decor “A pillow embroidered with a scene of the night sky over Nagrand.”

Box of Incense Container          Box “A small container of varied scents and quantities of incense.”      Bloodthistle Incense      Consumable          Incense      “A powdered incense made primarily of bloodthistle soaked in mana potion. Excellent for mana fatigue. May become addictive.”      Use: Burn the incense.      -----      Peacebloom Incense      Consumable          Incense      “A stick of sweet, calming peacebloom incense.”      Use: Burn the incense.      -----      Sungrass Incense      Consumable          Incense      “A braid of dried sungrass meant to be burned as incense.”      Use: Burn the incense.      -----      Sandalwood Incense      Consumable          Incense      “A stick of soft, woodsy sandalwood incense.”      Use: Burn the incense.

Hairsticks Jewelry          Hair “A pair of elegant glass hairsticks shaped like single glass roses. Available in black, red, pink, and blue.”

Inkwell Container          Bottle “A short, sturdy inkwell of smoked glass bound in bands of decorative silver.”

Perfume Bottle Container          Bottle “A delicate glass bottle for holding perfumes and fragile oils.”

Glass Dream Globe Decor “A glass globe about the size of a grapefruit with strands of glass stretched inside the smooth sphere like taffy. It’s said that hanging a dream globe in the bedroom traps the bad dreams in the globe where the strands of glass cut them up and the morning sun burns them away.”

Stained Glass Windchimes Decor “A beautiful windchime made of multiple pieces of stained glass strung together to clink in the breeze like glasses at a party.”

Box of Glass Animals Container          Box “A collector’s edition box of six glass animals hand-blown by the master glasswright of Shadowglen Glassworks. May include: dragon, puppy, pig, butterfly, horse, dragonhawk, bluebird, tiger, sheep, octopus, frog, star, cat, wolf, ox, crane, or fox.”      Glass Bluebird      Trinket      “A bright, cheerful blue bird made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Butterfly: “A lovely orange and black butterfly made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Dragon: “A bright blue and purple dragon made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Frog: “A comical, bright green frog made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Horse: “A sprightly, golden brown horse made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Octopus: “A spooky purple octopus made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Pig: “An adorable, bright pink pig made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Puppy: “A cute, friendly black and white puppy made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Sheep: “A whimsical white sheep made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Star: “An iridescent blue star made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Tiger: “A fiercely cute orange and black tiger made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Fox: “A mischievous black-footed orange fox made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Cat: “A curled-up, sleeping calico cat made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Wolf: “A grey wolf howling at the moon made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Crane: “A bright red crane made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Ox: “A stalwart brown ox made of hand-blown glass.”      Glass Dragonhawk: “An elegant red and gold dragonhawk made of hand-blown glass.”

Intimate Insertables Container          Box      Sweet and Simple      Intimate          Insertable      “A basic design which may range from straight and narrow to broad and bumpy. Available in red, blue, purple, and clear. 45 gold.”      Short and Round: “A squat, squashed design meant for back door play. Available in sunset or midnight. 40 gold.”      Fun Textures: “A spicy design which may range from twists, spirals, swirls, or sequential bumps. Available in red, blue, purple, green, or clear. 60 gold.”      Adventurous: “A unique design which imitates the tentacles of a sea creature. Available in blue, green, or purple. 75 gold.”

====================

Zombyneth Shadowspite - Glass Phoenix

Directory Information: Race: Sin’dorei Class: Musician Age: Undead Eye Color: Icy blue Height: 6′0″ Body Shape: 178 lbs. (Muscular, heavily built) Birthplace: Sunsail Anchorage Residence: Silvermoon City

Additional Information: Pronunciation: “Zom-bee-neth” Nicknames: Zay, Zayne, Phoenix, Demon-Fingers Scars: Severe burn scars around missing eyes, though hidden by a robust illusion. Affiliations: Scryers, Armies of Legionfall Vitality: Stone cold dead. Languages: Thalassian, Common, Orcish, some Draconic

Personality Traits: Chaste (5) < Lustful (15) Altruistic (14) > Selfish (6) Compassionate (15) > Monstrous (5) Cautious (3) < Impulsive (17) Playful (17) > Serious (3) Swords (19) > Spells (1) Extroverted (7) < Introverted (13)

Physical Description: On the short side of average height and blessed with broad shoulders and sturdy muscles, this elf is generally unremarkable amid a sea of very pretty people. His jaw is usually bearing a day-old blond scruff and his long hair seems more like carelessness than fashion. Close inspection reveals that his eyes seem slightly off, glassy and imperfect at tracking those around him. He gives no impression that he finds it difficult to see. Lately, he's been spotted wearing a worn strip of red leather across his eyes like a demon hunter.

His clothes are generally sturdy leather or netherweave. He speaks quietly, puts on no airs, and often keeps to himself. Those who get so close into his personal space as to be uncomfortable for all parties may realize he smells like incense smoke.

At First Glance:

Smells like... Woodsy incense and graveyard dirt.

Shiny! Wearing a pendant of a small, silver penguin on a silver chain.

* Blindfolded Wearing a strip of well-worn red leather across the bridge of his nose. It's all the rage these days.

Bright eyes. Really bright. Icy bright. Woah, dude, lay off the frost magic.

The Old Lady (his guitar...) A guitar of golden-amber wood with a sense of age, years of heavy use warming a fretboard inlaid with a delicate pattern of vines in mother-of-pearl. A wide, dark strip of walnut decorates the back of the body of the instrument. Well-used and well-loved.

Currently (IC): Mold-eaten leather? Check. Muscled arms? Check. Ghoulish smile? Check.

Other Information (OOC): I like big words and I cannot lie. http://glass-phoenix.tumblr.com

====================

Menagerie:

              SHADOWGLEN GLASSWORKS

Stained Glass Windchimes: 35 gold Glass Dream Globes: 25 gold Perfume Bottles: 9 gold Inkwells: 7 gold Hairsticks: 16 gold per pair Glass Animals: 14 gold each Collector’s Edition Box of six glass animals hand-blown by the master glasswright of Shadowglen Glassworks. May include: dragon, puppy, pig, butterfly, horse, dragonhawk, bluebird, tiger, sheep, octopus, frog, star, cat, wolf, ox, crane, or fox. - 90 gold (for six and a nice cherry-wood storage box)

All listed items can be given to you through TRP3 Extended. For custom orders, including many other types of glassware, please arrange a private consultation. Special/custom orders can include but are not limited to: table sculpture, stained glass windows, lamps, glassware, intimate items, marbles, and glass jewels for jewelry. Most private orders include a tumblr post with writing and photos to serve as an item to show your friends!

[insufferablegryffindor]

HPMA MC: Hester Huckabee

(Credit to @irisgallowayart on instagram and @sangled​ for these pictures. I made them on picrew!)

I used @hogwartsmysterystory​‘s character template for this!

Identity

Name: Hester Dorcas Huckabee

Gender: Female

Age: 11 - 18

Birth date: 15th June

Species: Human

Blood Status: Half-Blood

Sexuality: Bisexual

Alignment: Lawful Good

Ethnicity: Caucasian

Nationality: British

Residence: Ambleside in the Lake District of England

Myer Briggs Personality type: ISFP

The Mage

Wand: Walnut wood with a unicorn hair core, 10 ½ “ and supple flexibility

Animagus: Not an animagus, but her Maledictus curse lets her transform into a chestnut mare

Boggart Form: Her mother losing control over her transformation and being stuck as a half human, half mare

Riddikulus Form: Her mother transforming back into a human and doing a silly dance

Patronus Memory: The applause after her first successful Quidditch match

Patronus: Chestnut Mare

Mirror of Erised: Her mother as a human standing behind her, hands on her shoulders

Appearance

Face Claim: Kristine Froseth

Game Appearance: N/A

Height: 5’0” in first year, grows to be 5’6” until seventh year

Weight: 100 lbs in first year, increases with her height to 115 lbs in seventh year

Eye Colour: Deep blue

Hair Colour: Light brown with a tint of ginger when the sunlight hits it

Skin Tone: Fair

Body Modifications: Golden ear studs in second year, smiley piercing in fourth year, dimple piercings in fifth year

Scarring: None

Inventory: Wand, Broom polish, several hair ties and bobby pins, chocolate frogs

Allegiances

Hogwarts House: Gryffindor

Affiliations/Organisations: Gryffindor house, major fan of the Appleby Arrows Quidditch Team

Professions: N/A

Hogwarts Information:

Class Proficiencies:

Astronomy: O

Charms: E

DADA: E

Flying: O

Herbology: A

History of Magic: A

Potions: A

Transfiguration: A to P (over the years)

Electives: N/A

Quidditch: Gryffindor Keeper from Year 3

Extra Curricular: Astronomy club and Charms club

Favourite Professors: Professor Longbottom

Least Favourite Professors: Professor Binns

Relationships:

Mother: Millicent Huckabee (née Budd), now constantly a chestnut mare due to her Maledictus curse.

Father: Adam Huckabee, Muggle.

Grandmother: Liddie Budd, passed away at the age of 75 as a chestnut mare. First case of the Maledictus curse in Hester’s family.

Love Interest: N/A

Best Friends: N/A

Rivals: N/A

Enemies: N/A

Dorm Mates: N/A

Pets: Sphinx Rat named Chickpea

Closest Canon Friends: N/A

Closest MC Friends:

Shay Blunt (@lowtoleranceforyou)

Leon McNully (@death-or-sleep)

Cody Sinclair (@sirfluffelig)

(Hit me up if you would like your MC be friends/dorm mates with Hester <3)

Background/History:

Afflicted with the Maledictus Curse, Hester can turn into a chestnut mare at will. She saw her mother’s struggle as it was harder and harder for her to keep her human form. Hester’s mother Millicent has been a horse permanently ever since Hester was seven.

However, her mother lets her ride on her back, letting the two of them explore the English countryside - and teaching Hester horseback riding without a saddle.

Her father is clumsy and not great at comforting his daughter. He doesn’t understand her, but he tries his best. Hester however just crawls back deeper into her shell and doesn’t enjoy her time around him. She knows that they both feel the same pain about Millicent though.

Her father Adam is from East London, but as her condition worsened, the family moved to the countryside. Hester’s cockney accent is very thick.

She went to a Muggle school up until Hogwarts. Her grades were average, and she was quiet, not drawing any attention to herself.

Her mother was a huge Quidditch fan, mostly of the Appleby Arrows, and Hester carries on that legacy.

Hester doesn’t know who cursed her family, but her grandmother was a Maledictus as well, so she knows that the curse reaches way back.

Personality

Resilient: Even with the bad things Hester has going on in her life, she manages to bounce back and fight to be her best self.

Honest: Telling one lie will only lead to more lies, and Hester is not here for it. She is honest, but not blunt or abrasive.

Attentive: Always aware of her surroundings and living in the moment, Hester notices details that might slip from other people’s minds.

Assertive: Even though she doesn’t talk much, Hester knows exactly what she wants and will tell people if things she doesn’t approve of are happening. With each passing year, her presence gets more and more demanding

Impatient: She always feels like she is losing time when waiting for something, and so her patience is easily exhausted.

Impulsive: Despite the way Hester carries herself, she can be quite fiery and lots of her decisions are made impulsively and on a whim.

Stubborn: It’s hard for her to change her ways. Hester often feels like her way is the right way and she will follow it to the end, no matter how much people try to talk her out of it.

Forgetful: This is why Hester struggles in many classes - her forgetfulness also makes everyday life a little harder for her, especially when she forgets the password to the common room.

Miscellaneous

Hester has a kind of raspy voice that compliments her thick cockney accent.

The body modifications she gains over the years are her way of claiming her body back for herself - she feels like her curse is taking the control of it away from her.

She spoils her rat Chickpea and sometimes takes her to classes in the hood of her robes.

Transfiguration is a class that Hester can’t stomach, whenever a creature is being transfigured, she can only think of it being herself - especially when the transfiguration goes wrong.

[the-unknown-storyteller]

Journals

(Universe by @linkeduniverse)

Summary: Almost every Link of the group owns a journal in any shape or form.

____

Although Wild is usually the one, running around with a journal in his hands or strapped to his hip, there are several Links in the group that do the same thing.

Time keeps a journey log filled to the brim with hundreds if not thousands of notes and letters for when he can return to his lovely wife. He keeps everything neat and organised with dates added to every page. Some paper pieces look a lot older and weathered down than the others, slight crinkles at the edges and a faint yellow tint to where water had hit the paper a long, long time ago.

Still, Time keeps every little note that he has written, both on bad and good days and keeps them safe for Malon. So that she can read and feel what he's seen and felt. That thought alone makes long nights around the campfire a bit easier to go through, a bit more bearable when he simply can't sleep, haunted by the ghosts of times long past, and needs a distraction strong enough to make them go away.

Wind is often seen going through a small sketchbook, a smile on his lips or a happy glimmer in his eyes. His sister had given it to him before he had parted with her and his grandma. Most of the drawings are just simple sketches of seagulls or ships, usually from a very far away perspective.

One could also say that those were just some random lines with a slight resemblance of some bird and walnut shells. There's only so much a nine-year-old can do from on top of a watchtower and with references that constantly move around. Wind loves each of them, nonetheless. Sometimes he adds a sketch or two of his own because coming home empty handed is a no go. His sister would be so disappointed. Thus, he draws and draws and draws for his little sister at home, eager to see her smile when he shows her all the things he's seen on his journey.

Legend, on the other hand, owns a journal with a much more practical purpose. With years and years of traveling experience under his belt, he knows that it's important to keep track of everything, dimensional pockets be damned. Food, potions, supplies like bandages and thread. Everything goes into his journal as numbers and dates. Although, it would be a lie to claim that he only writes lists and plans of how to make the rations last longer when they're in a pinch.

Hyrule once caught him extremely early in the morning, writing a short story from the perspective of a painting. Which had sounded kind of silly back then and he only got a few sentences in, but from what he had seen, it was very well written and he'd love to read more of it. Hyrule felt like he would get to know Legend better if he did. But the way Legend whipped around and scrambled to pack his book away with this kind of shocked and scared expression on his face made Hyrule not want to push his friend.

Sky’s journal is more like a folder, holding together multiple pages, most of them bright and colourful. A normal notebook wouldn't have worked all that well for how he wants to use it, so he had decided to get a piece of leather and a band to wrap around a few times. He then filled it with paper that’s thicker and sturdier than normal one, since it has to be able to withstand his paints and chalk. Sky paints when his heart begins to ache for the past.

When he gets homesick, he sits down, looks at the sky and starts working. As a result, his book is filled with sketches of clouds, so soft that you believe they might fly away any moment now. Urged forward by a gentle gust of wind.

On good days, he uses either pastel sticks or aquarelles. His hands work slowly and lightly with relaxed but still precise movements, similar to how a feather falls gently to the earth. Sky takes his time on those days and enjoys every line he lays down and every colour he manages to blend smoothly.

On bad days, he uses charcoal and dark oil paints. His lines are vicious then, threatening whoever decides to dare look at them. There's anger and despair that flows into the colours. His hands move fast and with such force that he's once broken a brush of his.

Those days are messy and impatient with harsh and jagged lines and barely any white space left behind. When looking only at those pieces, no one would be able to tell that he's also the one behind the cloud paintings that speak of such gently and careful hands.

In all of his paintings, there's usually a Skyloft flying in the distance or at least a single red feather hidden somewhere. That same feather is burned and charred on the edges on those rare days when Sky’s heart feels rotten.

Lastly, there is Hyrule. He's a big mystery to everyone, at least his two journals are. One of them is so incredibly thin that there can't be more than twenty pages in it. It looks barely used, too. The spine is pristine and barely broken in and there are next to no scratches on the soft, light brown leather cover. The only part of it that betrays any kind of usage are the miniscule gaps between pages in set intervals. So it must have been at least opened once or twice.

His other journal, though, is loaded with whatever Hyrule has decided to put in there. Pages warped and wrinkled, making the cover expand and bend itself outwards. A band wrapped around it multiple times, similar to how Sky does it, keeps all the pages from spilling out and onto the ground.

Next thing is that they barely get to see them too. They're usually hidden in Hyrule’s bag between potions and bandages and tools like a knife and a pair of scissors that look incredibly sharp. Sharp enough to cut through thick rope with ease which confuses the others. Why have an extra pair of sharp scissors when you can slash through everything just as well with a small knife? It would make sense if he uses it for mending his clothes, but no such thing. Because they barely get to see the scissors too.

Additionally, Hyrule disappears every two days for several hours, he walks away from them as soon as they’re finished setting up the camp with quick and light steps. Today is no different.

“Got something important to do. Don't worry about me, I'll be back in a bit”, he yells back, making his way down the hill towards a forest nearby.

When Warrior notices the two journals in his right arm and the pair of scissors in his left hand, he immediately perks up from where he is putting down wood to get a fire going. He's intrigued and the tingling in his hands is slowly receding, too. He's sold.

“We might not have enough fire wood for the whole night, I'll go and collect some more”, Warrior says, slowly backing away from the others, some of whom shout a distracted thanks.

As soon as he is out of sight of the group, he ducks down beneath the grass that stands tall above him and goes to follow Hyrule who's detoured from his original path and takes a sharp right. He disappears behind some large boulders.

Warrior stands still for a few seconds. Listening. Waiting if Hyrule suddenly changes his mind and goes back, possibly catching him in the process. But all he hears are light footsteps that move away from him. A small grin grows on his face. He shakes his right hand a few times and runs towards the boulder, taking quiet shuffling steps around it.

Before he even gets to turn around and take a peek, he can hear a quiet and gentle voice, that is undoubtedly Hyrule’s, talking.

“This one won't do. I’m sorry but you're just too small, even if you are quite beautiful. Give it a few days and you'll be the prettiest of them all, I'm sure of it. I can't just go and snip you now-”

Warrior peeks his head around the rock and is quite confused by the pureness of the scene that unfolds before him. Hyrule is standing there in a crouched position, the pair of scissors in his right hand. The other holds the very thin journal, opened at what appears to be a random page. The other book lays next to Hyrule’s right foot in the soft grass.

There is this kind adoring look on his face, which also radiates calmness and contentment. Warrior can see that he is still talking to whatever interesting thing is on the ground there. What is he talking to? A bug? A worm? No, why would someone want to “snip” a worm? He doesn't get it and he can't see form this far away.

Hyrule gets up and shuffles over to another patch of grass, repeating the same process of talking to the ground. This time, though, he makes a careful cut with his scissors and lays whatever he's found into his journal. He clamps it shut and opens a new empty page. Then shuffle, crouch, talk, snip. He repeats that process a few time and each damn time Warrior can't see what it is that he's putting in his book.

Warrior’s chest is burning with vicious curiosity now and he can no longer stand still. He taps his foot a few times, before he thinks that it doesn't matter and sprints over to where Hyrule is standing. He’s taking the leather string off of his book, back turned to the approaching storm.

“Just what is it that you're collecting in there?!”, Warrior cries out and startles Hyrule badly. Both of his journals fall to the ground...

..and a dozen, a hundred dried flowers and flower petals spill out and onto the ground. They both stand there for a second, frozen. Time stands still.

Warrior is staring.

Hyrule is staring back.

Warrior takes in the sight of the dried flowers.

Then, Hyrule’s body comes back to life with a start when he notices some dark blue hydrangea have crumbled upon impact. He crouches down and picks up the once delicate flower petals with gentle hands.

“I'm sorr-”

“It's okay. They weren't all that important anyway.”

They both know that's a lie. Warrior can see it in the way his shoulders are hunched forward, in the way his hands form a small bowl, as though he is trying to protect the remaining pieces.

“Why are you always so secretive about this?”

Hyrule looks up at him with a questioning look. “Hm? Oh. Well, none of you have ever asked about it and I didn't feel like telling you.” A short pause. “You see, I've done this ever since I've started traveling. It’s always felt like something that was mine and mine alone. It’s a useless and stupid sentiment, but I still held onto it. I don't really mind, though, if everyone found out about it. It's just a small hobby. I would take one hour out of my day and collect flowers to press them and put them into my scrapbook.”

Warrior sits down next to Hyrule, who has started to put everything back to where it belongs. “But why?”, he asks.

“I guess… I just like the process of it and what you get at the end. I've travelled a lot, not as much as Legend, of course, but I've come around quite a bit. And every time I get somewhere new, I am awed by what I'm seeing and encountering and I think ‘I want to keep a piece of this with me’. Pressed flowers were the easiest solution to that.”

There's silence once again, save for the quiet rustling of the flowers. Warrior takes a deep breath.

“Would you mind...?” He gestures at the sad pile of broken hydrangeas. “I'm sorry for ruining them and would like to know the story. If you're willing to tell me, that is.”

Hyrule glances up at him, sees the sincerity behind his apologetic smile and huffs.

“I guess it couldn't hurt to share just a few.”

[sleeplesspensieve]

Remedy For Guilt - XVI

Summary: The daughter of Bellatrix and Rodolphus Lestrange is a Healer who finds herself not only haunted by her past but also questioning her choice in career. When Lyra Lestrange’s old headmaster offers her a position as Defence Against the Dark Arts Teacher she finds herself thrown into an adventure involving a secret affair with a colleague, discovering the cure for a disease and dealing with students cursing themselves. Who knew that being a Hogwarts Professor was such a rollercoaster?

Set in the school year of 1990-1991 with the prospect of a sequel, or two, on the horizon.

Rated: E for graphic sex scenes in THIS and later chapters. Over 18′s only please.

Word Count: 3425

Multichapter Fic (Expected to be around 30-35 chapters with a planned sequel which will take place during the Harry Potter Books)

Chapter Sixteen - Remedial Plants

Lyra found herself walking the grounds of Hogwarts early Saturday morning, her feet took her to the greenhouses where Pomona Sprout was tending to the numerous plants.

“Good Morning, Lyra!” the Herbologist greeted. “How are you progressing with your Psyrot cure?”

“I’m actually getting started with testing different ingredients,” Lyra replied, “I was hoping you could advise me on any natural anti-parasitics. So far all I’ve got is wormwood, black walnut husks and pumpkin seeds.”

“That’s about all I know as well,” the Professor said, “There aren’t actually many out there. Those three best work in conjunction with one another.”

Lyra nodded, “I have a list here of things I was hoping to pick.” She passed on the piece of parchment.

Venoms/Poisons

Angel’s Trumpet

Baneberry

Bloodroot

Venomous Tentacula

Hemlock

Misc ingredients

Nettles

Lavender

Wormwood

Black Walnut Husks

Valerian Root

Dittany

Pumpkin Seeds

Pomona looked over the list and her lips tightened. “I’m afraid that Professor Snape has cleared out most of the general potions ingredients,” she replied. “It’d be worth speaking to him, he probably has better knowledge than me for practical applications of these ingredients.” Lyra gritted her teeth. “You two aren’t on speaking terms at the moment,” the older witch stated, observing the tension in the young witch’s jaw. “Maybe you should attempt to make amends. Severus was significantly happier when you two were friendly. This may be a way to bridge the gap, he’s never turned away a colleague in need.” The young Professor sighed at her colleague’s words.

“You can gather the other ingredients,” Pomona said, “I trust that you have your dragon hide gloves?”

Lyra pulled them out and put them on, getting to work on obtaining the various poisonous ingredients. She intended to use them to see their effects on the worms, an experiment which she carried out as soon as she arrived back to her room. All seemed to be rather effective, except for Hemlock, in killing the parasite in rather low doses. Unfortunately they were all poisonous to humans as well, there was no telling what would happen if they were ingested in a potion. There were too many variables and adept as Lyra was at making potions she was no potioneer. Creating a potion to cure a disease was a whole different ball game to simply following an instruction manual.

She did not want to admit defeat and ask the Potions Master for assistance but if she truly did want to discover a cure she’d have to. Reluctantly, she found herself walking down to the dungeons with several worms and poisons. With each step down she felt her stomach descend, beginning to feel physically ill at the prospect of facing him after two weeks of silence. Two weeks wasn’t enough to get over with what occurred between them.

The nausea rose as she knocked on his door, her heart was racing, her head dizzy as she waited for the Head of Slytherin to open up. Why in Godric’s name, was he taking so long to answer the door? She found herself fiddling with her hand as she waited, twirling the pine between her fingers as a drummer would with his sticks. She felt hyper aware of the students that passed, she hoped they weren’t staring at her. Lyra attempted to maintain an air of confidence despite the fact she felt like she was about to throw up. Severus’ door flew open, with one quick glance at the woman he spat out the word, “What?”

Her jaw tensed slightly at the venom of her words. She looked up at him for a brief moment, her eyes cast downward immediately after they met. “I need your help.”

Severus merely stepped aside, allowing the young Professor into his office. She forgot how intimidating he could be, it was a treatment that she had never been on the receiving end of. Lyra slid past the Potions Master and stood aimlessly as he shut the door.

“Well?” he asked expectantly.

Lyra felt as though she was a nervous student again. She breathed in deeply in an attempt to ground herself, trying to find the confidence to speak. “I’ve been continuing my research on Psyrot,” she said, “And I can’t do it alone.”

Severus took a seat, summoning a seat for the Defence Against the Dark Arts Professor as well. With a deep exhale he composed himself for the witch, “Tell me your findings.”

Lyra swallowed hard before explaining herself. “Well, Kettleburn bred some of the parasites for me so I can test different poisons and things that may work against it that I may be able to incorporate into a potion. The reason that the Pepper Up doesn’t work is that it develops a shell towards the later stages, preventing it from being destroyed by heat as well as the body’s immune system. So either I can find something that will weaken its shell or something that can kill it nonetheless. I was rather limited as Pomona said you had taken most of the ingredients I require.”

“What have you tested so far that’s worked?” he enquired.

“Angel’s Trumpet.”

“Too deadly.”

“Baneberry.”

“Targets the heart.”

“Can’t redirect it?”

“With great difficulty it’s possible, other options?”

“Bloodroot?”

“Bowels and blood.”

“Could it penetrate the blood brain barrier?”

“With some tweaks it’s possible but risky.”

“Venomous Tentacula.”

“It’s too volatile, otherwise it’d be ideal as it isn’t deadly to humans.”

“Well that’s it really,” she sighed. “Those ones kill it. The Venomous Tentacula seems to be most effective. Otherwise in low doses the bloodroot gets rid of the shell then you could probably use Pepper Up.”

“What about classic antiparasitics?” he asked.

“Pomona was out so we’d need to trial,” she said.

“I think we can use bloodroot and wormwood,” he replied. “The difficulty would be getting it to target the brain as well as getting the concentration correct for human consumption. If not then we’ll try to use the tentacula venom.”

“I’m sure there’d be a charm to direct it to the brain,” she said, her mind remembering a passage she had read somewhere.

“Most potions target specific parts of the body based on the ingredients within but charming it would be ideal in the case of the tentacula. Research it when you can. We should start testing.”

With a nod, the pair moved off into the Potions classroom, both pulling out ingredients off the shelves to trial on the worms. Nettles simply made the outer shell more solid and no other component seemed to efficiently shed the shell as efficiently as the bloodroot. It was a lot of trial and error in which Severus took the lead, Lyra offered suggestions based on her knowledge that Severus would comment on. He enjoyed debating potion theory with the girl, it was refreshing to speak with someone with different perspective. Honestly, for him it was nice be speaking with her once more.

Severus realised he had missed her over the past two weeks of absence. He had found himself a bit more short of temper than usual, his general tolerance of people had reduced significantly resulting in an excess of sarcasm and harsher punishments on students. Anyone that ticked him off in the slightest would find their house lacking a significant number of points with a strong prospect of detention, in fact he had several students lined up for detention that evening which he now was dreading. He wanted to spend more time with Lyra but maybe it was best he kept his distance.

He watched her from afar, maintaining at least a foot of physical distance between them but as he sat back he found himself noticing little quirks he hadn’t noticed before like the soft edge of her jaw when she tucked back a stray piece of hair or the way her nose would wrinkle as she made an observation and quickly wrote it down on her parchment. It stirred quite a confusing emotion within him, his heart both felt full and ached as he pined for her. His head was telling him to keep away, knowing the trouble that his heart would lead him into.

“We’ll need to trial these on something living,” she commented as they settled on an effective combination that synthesised well with the low dose of bloodroot.

“I have students coming for detention soon,” Severus said, “Perhaps we should trial it on them.”

Lyra giggled, “Rats would be ideal.”

“I’ll speak to Filch about getting some,” he replied.

“I’ll research guiding spells, what time did you want to meet tomorrow?”

“Probably around 10,” he said.

“Ok,” she replied as she showed herself out.

“Lyra,” he called out after her, his heart tugging and longing to be with hers.

She hummed a small sound as she turned around.

He wanted to apologise, he wanted to say that he missed her but he couldn’t form the words. His head told himself to keep his distance so he settled on, “Have a good night.”

She smiled sweetly back, “You too.” She turned, waving her hand as she walked away.

The day had left her feeling accomplished, after weeks of stagnation in the development of the cure she felt as though she was finally progressing. She was thankful that she had her old Professors on her side to guide her through the process. Lyra had learnt the theory behind the development of treatments in her NEWTs and Healer training but without her experienced colleagues she would’ve found herself lost. Not to mention it would’ve taken a great deal longer. The whole experience allowed her to acknowledge her short comings and learn from some of the greatest witches and wizards.

Lyra also felt relieved in the sense that despite the awkward ending of their intimate relationship the two could remain in a room together for several hours to work on something and maintain a completely professional relationship. There were no sarcastic comments or teasing remarks from either party. The two were focused on working towards a cure for Psyrot.

Lyra’s focus on the cure continued as she wandered to the library in search for a particular book. She couldn’t recall the name of the book but she could see the passage clearly in her head. ‘Where did I read it?’ she asked herself.

Madam Pince was of no help for she couldn’t see into the witch’s mind and with the copious amount of books that could be of relevance it would take days to narrow it down. Lyra thought harder of where she might’ve read it, concentrating on the image of her memory. She recognised the ebony desk in the background. Of course, she had read it whilst studying in the Malfoy Manor. Hastily, she thanked the librarian and power walked to the edge of the castle grounds. Once she knew she was past the anti-apparation barrier she thought hard of the Manor and with a spin she found herself there.

She walked the familiar path through the wrought iron gates, down the cobbled footpath and up the stairs of the patio to its grand entrance.

She was greeted by a confused looking Lucius as he walked down the marble staircase. “Lyra? What are you doing here?”

“Sorry,” she said as she removed her coat, “I just needed to pop into the library to do a bit of research. I should’ve warned you.”

“Nonsense,” he said as he placed a hand on her shoulder. “This is your home.” The witch smiled slightly at her Uncle’s gesture. “Will you join us for tea?”

“Of course,” she replied.

“Cissy is visiting Cygnus with Draco at the moment so you’ll be able to get some peace and quiet,” he said, “If you need anything, let me know.”

With that, Lucius wandered off to the living room. As she walked up the stairs she could hear the tinkling of piano keys, her heart sung along to the melody as she recalled Lucius teaching her as a young girl and how she’d sing along with him. They were rare but sweet moments she shared with her Uncle that occurred long before he had adopted her.

Lyra was pulled out of her memories as she was faced with the lined walls of the library. She easily found the collection of books regarding the healing arts and potion making and began to pull out what she thought was relevant. Once amassing a large stack that was piled on the ebony desk she began to flick through each book, attempting to match her fuzzy memory with the pages. An hour passed before she actually found the passage she was looking for.

Potion Targeting

As most potions are ingested the primary area of absorption is within the digestive tract. The effect a potion may have may differ from its intended purpose due to the unpredictability and low absorption via the enteral route. This may be counteracted through the use of charms.

When finishing a potion the witch or wizard must use the incantation ire followed by the latin name for the desired organ waving their wand over the cauldron in a circular thrice clockwise and once counterclockwise.

An alternative method for potion targeting, particularly in a healing sense, is to use animal tissue of the desired target. This may involve the use of diseased tissue or parasites within the potion. When adding the tissue recite the incantation cel scopus three times. Please note that this may not be an effective method if the ingredients within the potion are toxic.

Lyra placed a bookmark within the page and slammed it shut. She felt closer than ever to the solution. With her wand she sent the rest of the books back into place before she headed downstairs.

The muted sound of piano still echoed in the entrance, the piece was building and falling gracefully. She approached the living room door, knocking softly, afraid to disturb Lucius as he was engaged in his performance. Yet, she heard him say “Come in,” as he continued to tickle the ivories.

She took a seat, resting the book on her lap as she watched her Uncle in fascination, admiring his form as his fingers danced delicately on top of the keys. He had so much passion and emotion, it was like there was magic intertwined with his playing, enchanting those who would listen. Several minutes passed until he reached the end.

“That was brilliant,” she said.

Lucius was flattered, smiling brilliantly at his niece. The man stood, drawing his wand and flicking it at a cupboard as he took a seat next to her. The doors opened and a serving plate exited, holding an unopened bottle of Malfoy Apothecary’s Superior Red and two wine glasses. “I recall Severus mentioning that you performed at the Founding Ball,” he said as he settled into the plush armchair. “He said you performed wonderfully, I haven’t seen you play in a long time.”

“I fell out of touch with it,” she shrugged, watching the bottle uncork itself and pour into each glass. “It slipped from my priorities, I was focusing on my studies.”

“As fair as that its, it’s such a waste of your talent,” Lucius plucked the glass from the air once it was filled.

Lyra allowed hers to nestle between her fingers, “I hardly think so. I enjoyed my studies.”

The blonde swirled his cup and inhaled the red. “You could be enjoying some free time and looking for a decent man. Tell me, are you still seeing Severus?”

Lyra’s expression dropped as her thoughts dwelled on the man mentioned. She hadn’t come to terms with it yet, it weighed heavy in her chest despite the fact that she had been working closely with him only hours before. “It fizzled out,” she said before taking a deep sip of the wine.

“I’m sorry to hear that, Lyra,” he said.

She couldn’t help but roll her eyes at his fake apology.

“Truly,” he placed his hand over his heart. “I may be your Uncle but I have raised you as my own. It saddens me to see you upset but honestly, it is for the best. You’ll find a man worthy of your affections.”

“Otherwise you’ll find one for me,” she tilted her head with a smirk of amusement.

Lucius sighed, “I know you’re not interested, you’d rather focus on your career. Will you resume your healing studies when you finish or remain at Hogwarts?”

“I do enjoy teaching,” she said, “But I think my passion still lies within healing. I’ve been working on a cure for Psyrot which is why I dropped in.”

“And how is that progressing?”

“Well, I think Severus and I should be able to figure it out hopefully tomorrow, if not within the week.”

“I thought you two ‘fizzled out’?”

“I mean we’re not sleeping together but he’s still my colleague. His knowledge and experience in potion-making far exceeds mine.”

“You love him, Lyra,” he observed, “I can tell.”

“But we’re not-”

“Doesn’t matter what you are and are not doing,” he said firmly, “You love him and as far as I can tell he does too but he has the sense not to pursue it. You’re young and want to follow your heart, I understand but you have an obligation to your family.”

Lyra sighed deeply at her Uncle’s words, sinking into her seat. She raised her glass and the bottle poured itself into it.

“Maybe you should speak to Narcissa about it,” Lucius remarked.

“She would be disappointed in me,” she frowned slightly.

“She was in love with another man before me,” he said, “His family was not of the same status as ours so our marriage was arranged. My parents were hoping I’d marry Andromeda but she ran off with that mudblood so I had Narcissa. She wasn’t happy but she went with it, eventually we fell in love then we had Draco. She’d understand where you’re coming from.”

The two were interrupted by the entrance of Narcissa and Draco. The young boy beamed at the sight of his cousin and ran into her lap. Quickly she placed her glass down to embrace the boy.

“Lyra!” he exclaimed, “You came back.”

She chuckled, “Of course I did. How is grandpa?”

“Good,” he shrugged. His eyes darted over to look at his parents who were embracing and he leaned in to whisper into the witch’s ear. “It was really boring,” he murmured, “I had to sit and drink tea with them.”

“Draco,” Lucius said with a warning tone, “You shouldn’t climb all over Lyra, you’re getting too old for cuddles.”

“How do should you greet a lady, Draco?” Narcissa asked.

The boy slid off her lap and demonstrated. He faced her, took her hand and gave it a soft kiss before bowing. Lyra stifled a laugh, smiling at the boy as his head raised and nodding to dismiss him.

“Very good,” Narcissa said. “Is it time for tea yet?”

“It can be,” Lucius replied. “Dobby!” he called out.

The house elf appeared in front of him with a bow, “Yes, master?”

“We want tea now.”

“Very well, sir,” the elf snapped his fingers.

The four moved on to the dining room where they caught up with Lyra over an exquisite feast. She explained to Narcissa of her pursuit of the cure for Psyrot which she hoped would convince her to relent on the topic of marriage but it came up once more. Lyra was uncomfortable as they discussed the subject, her heart still pining for Severus, which her Uncle took note of and redirected their conversation to another topic.

Lyra ended up staying the night at the Manor as time slipped so easily through her fingers as she enjoyed the company of her family. She was given the duty to read a story from the Beedle and the Bard to Draco before he went to sleep. The boy battled the sleep that was weighing heavy on him, wishing to stay up and enjoy the company of his cousin but eventually he surrendered.

[artwitchpath]

Homemade Inks

One of the many ways for us artsy witches to use the natural world in our practice is by making our own inks. The act of collecting ingredients, creating the ink, filling it with your energy and intent, and using it in your craft is truly magical! You can add some special touches to your Grimoire, draw sigils, add to potions, create fabulous works of art, or just replace your chemical filled paint with a non-toxic, eco-friendly alternative that is safe for your kids!

Here are some base materials you can use to make inks and the color they generally make. Obviously there's some variation with the final color depending on the material itself (more or less ripe and the inherent color variation between selections for example) but this will give you a general idea. Also note that the color of some materials can change over a period of time.

Berries

Red Cherry- Red or Light Pink

Pokeberry- Hot Pink

Red Rasberry- Medium Pink

Black Cherry- Pink/Purple

Black Rasberry- Light Purple

Blackberry- Purple

Huckleberry- Denim Blue

Buckthorn- Hunter Green

Nuts

Black Walnut- Rich Brown

Avacado Pits- Red/Pink

Peach Pit- Black

Almond Shells- Black

Other Options

Coffee

Black Bean

Sumac

Spinach

Red Cabbage

Turmeric

Jicama

Onion Skin

Wild Grape

Goldenrod

Experiment! This list is no where near exhaustive and there's tons of combinations to explore. I will be posting about my process for making inks and providing some examples soon so stay tuned!

[herbalcompendium]

Netherbloom

Colloquial names: Nether flytrap, Netherdrake Tongue, Mana Lasher

Physical Description: Netherbloom is a strange, four-petaled flower shooting from a curved fleshy stem. The petals themselves are a brilliant, feathery purple, tinged by yellow and pink on their interior and a web of net-like veins. They point downward, yielding to a strange, conical tube facing upward from their point of convergence. This fleshy tube holds a thin fuschia “tongue”, which catches the mana-infused flies of Netherstorm. The plant primarily grows in the rocky, fragmented reaches of the purple, mana-tinged region. It receives nutrients not by sun or soil, as neither is readily abundant, but instead by the flies it ingests. The conical structure produces a thin, shimmering pollen of light purple, which dusts across the plant in a patchy sheen. This pollen is said to enhance strength, vitality, quickness, and other abilities, as is prized by Netherstorm’s ethereal traders for such purposes. The pollen can be gathered by being scooped out of the cone with a small implement such as a teaspoon. This is advisable, as are leather gloves- the tongue delivers a weak shock when it lashes, lest the herbalist be mistaken for a fly.

Described Usage: Netherbloom’s pollen is its most prized reagent. In addition to giving the effects summarily listed above, a concentrated enough liquid dose can be used to send a rush of adrenaline to the body. It is a common drug for victims of stroke, blood clots, and those whose hearts have stopped beating. Alchemically, the properties of the pollen are various. Combined with a tincture of Nightmare Vine, it greatly enhances magical abilities, especially magicks of destruction. Assassins combine the pollen with fel lotus to slay their targets with ease. Mages prefer a powder of the pollen with ancient lichen stirred into tea, to increase their ability in combat. The substance takes on a reddish hue, and is aptly named “Elixir of Mageblood”. Although a spoonful of Netherbloom pollen in tepid water and catalyzed with Felweed fern makes a mighty fine healing potion, little of the substance is used in this way. In a certain capacity, its uses are either highly lucrative or rather shady. The pollen should be kept in a locked container, or diluted in dyed to disguise its vaguely glowing, purple tint. The Dalaran hospital has their own methods of this, which change every few months or so. For my purposes, I find crushed walnut shell added to the watered pollen produces a brownish black, making the substance look rather unremarkable. A bit of crushed chalk also works well, as it renders the purplish substance a silvery white, much like an innocuous tonic of Peacebloom.