#rendering bread is a time-consuming activity...

[mahi-does-some-art]

For your Servamp Game Show AU, did you ever make a post explaining the plot? I saw the ones regarding the premise and thought they were very interesting. Have an excellent day!

HI HELLO YES I WOULD LOVE TO TALK ABOUT IT!! I'm just gonna go over the premise again because its been a couple of years since I talked about it.

The "Game", which I still have not come up with any clever name for, is this show where contestants are picked from public polls to participate in what is essentially running around Japan for as long as they can without getting caught for money, love and/or jobs. There are two sides to this game: The people who run and evade the advances of the others (Runners) and the people who are chasing them, who can be people looking for date or recruit the people running (Hunters. Someone help me come up with better names please).

Basically, the longer the people running away stays not caught by any individual or corp, the more money they'll get when they either do get caught or the 6 month season of the show concludes and they win. The "Runners" each get a card they can buy hotel rooms in, food, necessities, ect but they can be disqualified for purchasing unnecessary items they intend to keep like luxuries and a specially made device they wear on their person that acts as both a safety tracking device and a means for "capture" by anyone they're running from. The fingerprints of the "Hunters" are put in a database the device recognizes and if a Hunter manages to hold their finger on it for long enough, the Runner is captured and they go back to the show's HQ to collect prize and work out what they want.

They also get issued phones so they can make video updates that the show's production team put up online and eventually string together on TV episodes for the general public to enjoy. Think of it like "The Most Dangerous Game" just no hit-men and it's aired to the world.

Now that that's out of the way, the plot is that the initial entering period of the show's contestant poll, the school quartet thought it'd be funny to enter themselves into the poll for shits and giggles minus Sakuya for Reasons. They don't think any of them would get picked and it was more a "I bet you won't!" dare while having lunch at a cafe they like one day.

And none of them were expecting for Mahiru's profile to get boosted to the top qualifiers because a bunch of people on the internet decided to troll by pushing up some random kid as a joke. Until it wasn't a joke anymore.

They get worried and Mahiru debates completely opting out before having the idea that maybe, if he gets far enough and gets enough money from it, his Uncle wouldn't have to work so much to provide for him and he could take a break and Mahiru could return the favor of being adopted by him. So with the encouragement of two of his friend and against the advice of one, Mahiru participates.

Everything goes well for a while and he ends up being decently loved by the audience but, as we all know, Mahiru's luck in these aus go out of the window and stay out thanks to his stubborness and overwhelming want to help people. He meets Kuro, another runner who he somehow manages to team up with and together Mahiru finds out that this Game is more twisted on the inside than meets any public eye.

I... Haven't really thought about this au for a good while so I have no idea what'll actually happen but I will take any ideas if y'all have any. It's an excuse to get all of the characters running around and also for Mahiru to get way more popular than he ever wanted to be.

[we-do-a-little-developing]

Bizarre Weapons

Red Faction: Armageddon - Mr. Toots

Mr Toots is a handheld gun in RF: A which shoots rainbows out of its rear or 'fires a beam of magic and wonder'. This magic and wonder uses the same ammo as the Plasma Beam so take that as you will. Mr Toots is acquired upon completion of the main storyline and, although strong, is not blatantly overpowered with a low rate of fire.

Saints Row IV - Dubstep Gun

I love SR4. It's ridiculous.

The Dubstep Gun is a handheld rifle in Saints Row IV which emits energy pulses to the beat of a tune depending on the weapon costume. Although the gun is extremely strong, it needs to charge before use and ammo slowly recharges over time.

Ratchet And Clank - The Groovitron

The Groovitron is a floating disco ball that forces all nearby enemies to dance when thrown, rendering them defenceless. It is contained in the Groovitron Glove, and will only stun bosses for a brief period which makes it better at interrupting their attacks than stalling them.

Team Fortress 2 - Mutated Milk

there is no escape

The Mutated Milk is a secondary throwable for the Scout, being a 'non-milk substance' [bad] with a living mutated bread inside [referencing the Expiration Date short film]. It does no damage, instead applying the milk effect to all nearby enemies, which heals all teammates by 60% of the damage they do to an enemy. The bread is fully alive and will writhe.

Gears Of War 3 - The Cluckshot

The Cluckshot is a grenade launcher in GoW3. Instead of firing grenades, however, it fires explosive chickens. That's about it.

Dead Space 2 - Hand Cannon

The Hand Cannon is a foam finger unlocked after beating DS2 on the hardest difficulty. It consumes no ammo, and a successful hit blasts the limbs of the target, resulting in an instant kill. Isaac Clarke will also yell 'Bang bang' or 'Pew Pew' when firing.

Worms: The Directors Cut - Super Sheep

The Super Sheep is identical to the Sheep in that it can both be launched and explodes on contact. However, the Super Sheep can be activated to be manually controlled via player input

[aewriting]

Loathly - Chapter 6

Here is Chapter 6 of my Sir Gawain and the Dame Ragnell Malex AU.  This is the wedding chapter.

Here are all parts on AO3.

Warnings for ageism, sexism, homophobia.

***

Life is better, with Lady Guerin at court.

Not since Lady Elizabeth lived here has Alex had a true friend, an ally.  Lady Guerin has been put up in quarters close to Alex’s own, though plans have been made for them to have adjoining rooms following the wedding ceremony, which is fast approaching.  The palace has been a flurry of activity, preparing guest rooms, cooking food, decorating the grand hall.  It is too much, Alex thinks, and yet… he sees the Lady Guerin’s point, that such a ceremony should be public, for her own protection. And Alex desperately wants to protect her, this good thing in his life.

He could never love her, romantically.  But there are other kinds of love, and he… he feels that, between them, believes they share a mutual care and concern.  A respect. Alex has lacked that, his whole life, and to find it somewhere so unexpected… it feels miraculous.  

If he must marry a woman, he is glad it is the Lady Guerin.

He tells her that one afternoon, and her face goes very still. She looks younger, sometimes, when surprised, when her eyes widen and she bites her lip.  When she finally speaks, her voice is very soft, barely audible.

“There is no one I would rather marry, Sir Alex.”

***    

He’s sparring with Flint, when he says it.

“Thank your woman for me, Alex.”

Alex lands a hit, pulls back. “What?”

Flint grips the wooden sword he is using, swings for Alex’s bad leg.  Alex blocks the blow, glares at Flint.

“The veil.  I’m glad to not have to look at her face any more.”

Alex is angry at that.  He… he knows that the Lady Guerin is not the most physically attractive woman in the realm.  But by the gods, there is more than that, to her… to any woman, any person.  Alex certainly knows that, especially since his injury. He lands a hard blow to Flint’s knee, knocking him down. Flint loses his practice sword, tries to scramble for it, but is met with Alex’s own sword at his nose.

“That’s enough.  Enough of your mouth and of this fight.” He steps back, sighs.  “I cannot control what your narrow mind thinks, brother, but the Lady Guerin will be my wife within the week.  You will not disrespect her in my presence.” Without waiting for a reply, Alex stalks away as best he can.

He seeks out Lady Guerin, mind troubled by what Flint had said.  

“My lady,” he says, coming across her in one of the palace gardens.  Sure enough, her face is veiled. “May we speak?”

Lady Guerin’s large eyes dart around.  “Certainly, Sir Alex. I believe this is a sufficiently private setting for whatever you may wish to discuss.  Without appearing unseemly, of course.”

Alex relaxes a bit.  “Of course.” He frowns, then.  “You… you know you can always refuse me?  If you do not wish to speak, or spend time together. Even once we are married. I, I will be your husband, but not your – “

“Commander?” the woman says, arching an eyebrow.  “Because I’ve been receiving some ‘training’ from the fine ladies of the court of Unidos, and what they say sounds… quite different.”

Alex purses his lips. “I am different. Please, please tell me you know that.”

He can see her face soften, then. She brings a gloved hand to the side of his face, strokes it fondly.  “I know.” She withdraws her hand then, quickly.  Looks down. “I… I do not believe you would ever harm me.  Not intentionally.”

“I would strive to avoid it, my lady.”

“I believe you,” she says. “And I trust you,” she says, almost fiercely.  “By the gods, I have been too trusting, in the past, but I do not believe my faith in you could ever be misplaced.”

It gratifies Alex, hearing such words from this woman. “I trust you, too,” he says, noting the look the woman gives him in that moment. It is indecipherable.  He clears his throat.  “I… there is something that is troubling me, though.  Why hide your face? It is warm out, and it is not the style or custom here.”

Lady Guerin looks down. “There are those at court who have made… unkind remarks, at my expense.  I am many things, Sir Alex, but I am not foolish. I know what is said about me, about my appearance and age.  It is sometimes easier for me to… go about my day and business unmolested if I am not so… visible.” There is real pain on her face then.  “It is odd, as I have become used to my appearance rendering me invisible, most of the time,” she muses. “Such was the intent, I believe.” Alex frowns. The woman’s eyes widen then, and she looks almost – scared? She swallows quickly. “But I digress.” She peers at Alex, gestures to her veil. “Would you prefer I change this, my lord?  Or any other aspect of my appearance?” She is looking at him intently.

He smiles at her, takes her hand. “My lady, it is your face.  So it is your choice.”

And even through the veil, Alex can see her smile.

***

“Sir Alex?”

Alex looks up.  “Yes, my lady?”

“Before I take my leave, there was something I wished to discuss with you.  It concerns our plans for after the wedding.”

Alex closes the book he is reading, looks up at the Lady Guerin.  “Please, sit.  Tell me what is on your mind.”

The Lady Guerin’s lips are pursed, and she looks thoughtful as she settles herself next to Alex.  Her veil is still in place, revealing just those large, flashing eyes.  “These past few years,” she starts, “I have largely kept to myself, in my cottage to the North of Unidos, the region bordering Antar. Beautiful country, up there, but I find myself yearning to see other sights.”

“Oh?”

“Unidos is such a large and varied kingdom,” she continues.  “There is even ocean access, yes?”

Alex nods.  “In the South.  Bordering the Tamarin Isles.”

The lady nods.  “It has been so long since I saw the ocean.” She turns her attention back to Alex.  “And it may do us good to get out of the palace, both of us. If only for a little while.”

Alex looks at her thoughtfully. “With all of our efforts consumed by King Noah’s riddle, this last year, it has been some time since we toured the southern border, made overtures toward our allies there.” His eyes narrow. “I believe I could sell such an idea to my father.  It would be nice to be out of court for a while. My brothers enjoy it, but I…”

The woman scoffs a bit. “It is a nest of vipers, truly.”

Alex raises an eyebrow, and the woman shrugs. Alex exhales, softens.  “I should like to show you the ocean, my lady.”

“I should like that, too.”

***  

It is done.

Alex gazes out over the great hall, takes in the mass of people that have just witnessed his wedding to the Lady Guerin, and are currently feasting and drinking.  King Manes is in a splendid mood, considers the whole occasion a success, an opportunity to crow about his superior wit, cunning, power…

Flint is drunk, flirting with a buxom serving girl. Gregory is more strategic about things, chatting in a corner with one of the princesses of Grenwell.

Alex sighs, takes a sip of ale. He looks at Lady Guerin, seated next to him.  She is bare headed and bare faced today, but for a small gold crown nestled in her grey curls.  She is wearing a fine dress, flatteringly cut, Alex thinks, and she has one of her own cloaks atop it, the one with the pearls.  Her head is high, as if she wants to be seen, but underneath the confident air, she seems… nervous.  Alex leans in, grasps her hand.

“My lady?” he murmurs.  “You seem somewhat… ill at ease.”

Lady Guerin exhales, turns to face him.  “Is it so obvious, Sir Alex? I was trying to conceal my true feelings in front of this crowd.”

Alex gives her a reassuring look. “Only obvious to me, I believe, my lady.”

She shakes her head a bit. “You know my moods, Sir Alex.  Heaven forbid I try to conceal anything from you,” she says, frowning slightly. “This is… quite overwhelming.  A new life I had never really intended.” Alex sees her eyes flit to the side, toward where the delegation from the Tamarin Isles is seated.  “It is reminding me of my past.”  She bites her lip a bit.  “A past that I must tell you more about, tonight. Privately.”

Alex’s brow furrows. “Of course, my lady.” He smiles then, a bit sardonically. “Whether we like it or not, we shall be granted total privacy tonight. The kingdom expects it, nay, demands it.”

***

Lady Guerin, as expected, begs her leave from the wedding feast just before sundown.  The festivities are just picking up, and though Alex and Lady Guerin are supposedly the reason for the celebration, few people notice that they have left.

Alex takes her hand and leads her through the winding halls of the palace, to their new quarters.  There is a guard at the door.  Alex nods to him, and the guard opens the door, allowing Lady Guerin to pass.  As Alex approaches, the guard leans in. “I don’t envy you,” he mutters. “For Unidos, eh?”

Alex frowns.  “I’ll hear none of that. The Lady Guerin is my bride.” He looks down the corridor, flags down another guard.  “Please relieve this man,” he shouts.  As the other guard strides toward them, Alex redirects his attention to the guard in front of him.  “I will not have you guarding my bed chamber if you cannot treat my wife with the respect she is due. Is that understood?” The guard nods, tightly, and walks away.

Alex sighs and, once the other guard is in place, he enters his new quarters. They are spacious, and beautifully appointed, as is fitting for the occasion.  There are freshly laundered linens on the bed, water and wine by the bedside, and fresh, fragrant blooms.  Refreshments, too – breads and cheeses, sweetmeats and ripe fruits. The Lady Guerin is running a finger along the side of the bed.  “This is beautiful,” she says. She turns, faces Alex.  “I… I wish this could be real, for you.  That you could have this with someone you love. You deserve that, Sir Alex.”

“Now, now,” Alex says, crossing to her quickly, grasping her hand.  “My lady, we both know what this is, and what it isn’t. What it could never be – “

“What it could never be here in Unidos,” the lady says, forcefully.  “For there are other places in this world, Sir Alex, other people and ways of being.” She blows out a breath.  “There are kingdoms that would fete a union of a prince like you to whomever he desires. Lands where you could love any person of your choosing.”

Alex crosses to her, embraces her. She leans into it.  “But we are here, my lady. Here in Unidos.  And I have told you before and shall tell you again – there is no lady to whom I would rather be bound in this way.” Alex pulls back and takes her hand, raises it to his lips. “I do love you, my lady, in my way.  And I hope that you can find it in you to love me, too, in whatever way feels fitting to you.”

“There is nothing to find, Sir Alex,” the woman says, and there are tears in her eyes, unshed.  “My love for you… it is already here.”

Alex nods his understanding, his relief.  He… he can do this.  He can live with the Lady Guerin, in a way he could do with few others.  

And then the Lady Guerin is pulling away from him, withdrawing her hand from his, shakily.  “But I fear that your affection for me, whatever form it takes, may not stay, once you hear the truth.” She exhales heavily. “Once you see the truth.”  She crosses to the window, pulls the heavy curtain to the side to view the last of the sun, sliding below the horizon.  “And you will not have long to wait.”

[johnny-and-dora]

hold me in this wild, wild world

for @meepmorpperaltiago, who asked for “engagement” and “forbidden love au with a happy ending” as part of the @b99fandomevents summer 2019 fic exchange! i hope you like it!

"It takes every ounce of willpower he has left not to kiss her like it’s their last night on earth. Despite the odds, he refuses to kiss her like he’s saying goodbye."

or, a forbidden love/royalty/fairytale au in which jake comes up with an alternative solution to amy being forced into an arranged marriage with the most boring man in the seven kingdoms. read on ao3

-

He’s late, as usual.

Jake’s foray into the forest for their secret meetings can usually be best described as a leisurely amble – tonight, it’s forgone for a sort of jog as he hurries along the narrow dirt path he knows like the back of his hand, ignoring his embarrassing shortness of breath and the sharp stitch in his side.

It’s strange, the light feeling in his chest – he can’t tell exactly what’s causing it. It’s probably eagerness to finally be alone with Amy after weeks of having to watch her politely but reluctantly spend most of her precious free time in the company of the most boring man in the seven kingdoms. It could be something more akin to dread at the ominous urgency of her message, evident even in Rosa’s deadpan delivery, telling him to get to their clearing as soon as he could.

Above all, he thinks it’s desire – this endless, empty yearning he’s been carrying around with him like an anchor, a powerful heavy longing to hear her melodic laughter or hold her close or even just to have anything more than an apologetic grimace and a tiny soft smile in his direction when she can be sure no-one is looking to get him through the day.

He thought it would be less painful seeing her with Teddy secure in the knowledge that she wasn’t interested – she’d spent most of their last meeting, a stolen moment behind the stables, reassuring Jake that he had absolutely nothing to worry about. It had helped, for a while, but he couldn’t help the ugly jealousy twisting his insides up in knots whenever the prince so much as respectfully shook her hand.

He quickly waves off any more invasive thoughts of Teddy and quickens his pace - whatever this light feeling is, it’s a powerful motivator, and it’s not long before he can hear the trusted babble of the brook which tells him he’s not far from their clearing.

She’s waiting for him, of course – her back is turned and it’s the perfect opportunity to sneak up on her, except he’s too busy being mesmerised by the gentle curl of her shiny dark hair, the way it elegantly cascades down her back. Amy only wears it down here, for him; a flicker of warmth starts to glow in his chest and for the first time all week he feels himself finally relax.

She’s illuminated by the hues of the golden hour, liquid dusk pouring through the trees. A soft halo of light encompasses her almost completely – it’s as if, just for a moment, the forest can appreciate how heavenly she always appears to him. If he feels a thousand times lighter here, he can’t imagine what it must be like for her – how sacred this time they can steal away together is, away from rules and responsibilities and everyone.

He’s escaping throwing away mouldy bread and blowing off work to play card games with Charles – she’s escaping a remarkable life of activism, royal politics, charity work and fancy banquets that he has to cater for. Jake still can’t quite believe after all this time that he’s somehow lucky enough to know her, let alone be with her.

Neither of them care particularly for the crown; here, with him, Amy can be truly herself. She’s pretty awesome as a princess, but as a person she is truly, absolutely radiant in every way he can think of. He clears his throat, soft with unadulterated affection – there are no facades here, no formalities, and he craves her gentle smile more than he ever has before.

The broken, pained look on her tear stained face as she turns towards him practically turns him to ice.

He’s by her side at an instant – she buries her sobs into his chest as he instinctively wraps his arms around her, panic flooding his entire body. He hurries to ask her what’s wrong - she shakes her head so violent he quickly switches to whispering soothing words of comfort, trying to guide her breathing. It only pulls her deeper into hysteria, so instead he strokes her hair and lets her cry herself out.

When she finally looks up at him, he notices two small stray braids in her hair and moves to gently brush them out, affection overpowering everything else. Her eyes are these dark, intense pools that he’d get completely lost in if she’d look at him for more than a second at a time - She moves out of his embrace only to produce some fancy embroidered silk handkerchief from a pocket and dry her tears, averting his gaze as if embarrassed of her outburst.

(He wants nothing more than to tell her that she’s the most beautiful woman in the world even when she has snot dripping from her nose, but he senses now might not be the right time.)

“S-sorry.” She hiccups, taking slow deep breaths; for the first time he notices that she’s trembling and instantly shrugs off his cloak, draping it around her without another word. It’s comically oversized; in another lifetime he would have laughed, but now it’s an effort to even speak with the fear clawing up his insides.

“Ames, what’s wrong? What happened?” She bites her lip, looking down at her clasped hands – her nails, usually pristinely manicured as per professional convention, have been bitten half to death. Something is very, very wrong.

“It’s…It’s Teddy.” She finally manages to croak, and he fears the worst, clenching his fists – something dark and angry must flicker across his face because her eyes widen and she’s quick to elaborate. “Nothing, nothing like that, he’s barely touched me the whole time he’s been here, I thought he got the message but he-“

She takes another shuddering, ragged breath, attempting to compose herself. The light feeling has vanished completely, only to be replaced with heavy, sinking dread as he fears the worst.

“He’s going to propose to me tomorrow morning.” She says, so quietly and so small he can barely hear. “And…and my parents say I have to accept. For the future of the kingdom.”

His stomach drops, and Jake just sinks.

It’s not like they weren’t expecting this – deep down, he’s been dreading since he first kissed her, fearing that this kind of happiness can’t last, knowing that they can’t sneak around for forever. As he’s fallen deeper and deeper in love with Amy, it has become harder and harder to just compartmentalise, to forget, to keep moving forward without fear of what’s in their future. To wonder, heart heavy, if they could ever have one.

He just expected it to happen so soon – in his heart, he’s always naively believed that they still had time, that they never would have to acknowledge the possibility that they might be it for one another and all the terrifying consequences that might bring.

The Santiago royal family has a reputation to uphold, and Jake’s pretty sure that he doesn’t quite fit the image that they’re going for. He’s always been sure that Amy’s fairy-tale happily ever after isn’t designed to have him in it; but knowing that and having to accept that are two very different things. Expecting this doesn’t make it any less like having his heart physically ripped out of his chest.

Nothing could have prepared him for falling in love with the smartest, most determined and most caring woman he’s ever known. Nothing could have prepared him for this kind of pain, ice cold and burning, apocalyptic heartbreak crashing down all at once.

Worst of all, nothing could have ever prepared him for the overwhelming anguish of seeing the same pain reflected back on Amy’s face.

“I won’t do it. They can throw me out or lock me up, I don’t care, I won’t-“

“-Ames, we always knew this could happen-“

“So? That doesn’t make this stupid patriarchal bullshit tradition any less fucked up!” Her anger startles both him and a few nearby nesting birds – he notes a flash of regret in her eyes before her face hardens into a picture of determination.

“I love you. Not Teddy, not anyone else they can set me up with no matter how many troops they’ve commanded or banquets they’ve organised. You. I’m not going to...I could never…” Her lip trembles and he wraps her up in his arms again, desperately trying to remain calm for her sake when all he wants to do is disappear into the forest with her and never come back again.

He’s quiet, for a long time; all that surrounds them is the steady, boundless flow of the nearby stream, crickets chirping at their feet, and the muffled sound of occasional shuddering sobs, slowly petering out as the sun begins to set, revealing muted hues of pink and orange.

Rarely has he ever been rendered speechless – as they find themselves sat together on the mossy ground, resting against the oldest tree in the clearing, hands almost defiantly intertwined, he can’t even begin to vocalise all the things he wants to say. He just wants her.

“Run away with me?”

“Amy…” He tries to be gentle but he just sounds tired, somehow a thousand years older – he feels like the slightest push might crumble him into dust. She places both of her hands in his and he squeezes them on instinct, never wanting to let go.

“I’m serious. Please, I’m not going to just leave you, I can’t…” She trails off again, a fresh wave of tears threatening to consume her. It strikes fear into his heart more than anything else - he’s never seen her like this. He’s comforted her before – he’s found himself paralysed by her searching gaze many times before, but he’s never once found this kind of hollow desperation there.

She’s always calm, always composed in the face of a crisis, the poster child for what a leader should be. Her determination, her fierceness, her outright stubbornness comes as naturally to her as breathing – more than that, they’re some of the endless reasons why (despite his best efforts) he couldn’t help but fall in love with her. Water is wet, the sky is blue, and Amy never runs away from anything.

It occurs to him that, maybe for the first time, she doesn’t know what to do – she’s as lost and hopeless as he is, and that only breaks his heart further.

“I gathered up as much old jewellery and coins as I could find in my room.” Amy takes a weighty velvet pouch from her pocket, shaking it to prompt a jingle as if he needs some kind of proof. “It’s not much, but it’ll be enough to get us over the border. If we left tonight we could be halfway there before anyone even notices I’m gone.” She’s misread his silence for uncertainty, for lack of faith in her - he sighs, long and hard, forces his eyes shut as if to visualise the right words in his mind.

The truth is, he’s thought about them running away together more often than he’d like to openly admit. The prospect of a normal, simple life far away from everything keeping them apart has proved too tempting not to indulge in at least once in a while, more than ever lately since Teddy arrived and they’ve had to be more careful than ever.

He’s got nothing to lose, really – sure, he’d miss his mom, and Charles, probably Rosa, but they could send letters, maybe even visit after a few months. He could bake and Amy could write and they could have a peaceful, idyllic happily ever after they can design for themselves. The truth is, he’d be willing to give up everything he has now for Amy in a heartbeat.

He just can’t let her do the same for him.

“Amy Santiago, I would run away with you anytime, anyplace – but not today.”

“Why not?” Her brows are furrowed so severely fear strikes his heart again for an entirely different reason, but he presses on, allowing a second of regret that they’re not halfway to the border right now before it swallows him up completely.

“Ames, I love you but I can’t let you throw away your entire life just for me – I’m not worth it, I can’t ask you to leave everything behind-“

“- But I don’t care about the royalty-“

“I know, I know. I was talking about your family – your brothers, your parents, Rosa…” She softens a little at that and he takes the opportunity to take her hand and squeeze it. “It’s more than that - you’re a natural leader, Amy. You love what you do and you’re incredible at doing it. You’re too kind and good and brilliant to not do what you do, to not help everyone you can.”

He half expects her to yell at him, throw the bag in his face, storm off into the night – instead, she smiles. It’s small, desperately sad, but it’s something. She reaches up to cup his face and presses a long, languid kiss to his lips – it takes every ounce of willpower he has left not to kiss her like it’s their last night on earth. Despite the odds, he refuses to kiss her like he’s saying goodbye.

“I don’t deserve you.” She says, so softly he can barely hear. He shakes his head – it’s something he’s said to her many, many times before. She’s never once accepted it, and he’s not about to start.

“You deserve the world, Ames. And we both know you’d be terrible at a normal life. No big important galas to organise or constitutions to update? You’d be bored to death by the end of the week.” She exhales a shaky laugh and he nudges her playfully, trying to regain some sense of balance despite his entire universe being shifted off its axis.

For a brief moment, no more tears will fall, no more anger or sense of cosmic injustice seems to coarse through his veins; instead there’s only peace as she nestles into his shoulder and he presses a kiss to the top of her head. It could be minutes, hours, maybe centuries before either of them move again; he’s not sure. All he knows is that whatever time they have left together is far too short.

“So, what do we do now?”

“Watch the sunset and make out and then I’ll go get super drunk and set all the horses from Teddy’s carriage free as an epic revenge prank?” He’s only half joking. “What do you think we should do?”

“I don’t know. If I had more time, I could try and find a loophole, or organise a protest, get a petition together to abolish this stupid tradition once and for all, but…“ She presses her lips together, suddenly lost in thought. He can’t help but feel an almost cruel, blinding twist of affection at the thought of finding someone who’s willing to stage a nationwide protest just to be with him.

For the first time all evening, the tiniest spark of hope begins to flicker and glow.

He’s been thinking about their future a lot, lately; while most of his nightmares feed and grow on his fear on them being forced apart, there’s one other daydream that he’s been having more than ever. He’s had his grandmother’s ring tucked safely away for a long time now. And he’s never really believed in magic, but he thinks if there was any time and place for a tiny miracle then it would probably be here, in this clearing, with her.

He takes a deep breath.

“I…might have an idea.”

“What is it?” She sits up straight and gazes at him attentively as if she’s ready to take notes; he loves her with every fibre of his being.

“You don’t have to do it if you don’t want to, okay? Because this…you deserve to have a choice, Ames, and I don’t want you to think I’m doing this just because I don’t want you to be with him, it’s because I really want to and actually I’ve been thinking about it for a while now even though I know it’s still pretty early, that’s why I didn’t want to say-“

“Spit it out, Peralta.” She cuts his nervous ramblings short, and all the exasperated affection in her voice feels like coming home.

“Right, yeah, okay. Uh, Teddy’s proposing tomorrow morning, right?”

“Yes?”

“So…so what if I, uh, proposed first?” He can’t help the grin that slowly blossoms across his face, even as the momentum of the idea hits them both full force. “Beat him to it, y’know. Can’t marry him if you’re already engaged to someone else, right?” He laughs nervously, already feeling an obscene amount of adrenaline pumping through his body.

She’s silent, obviously stunned – a thick cloud of panic and self-doubt starts to overwhelm him and he instantly starts to backtrack. “Sorry, it’s probably a stupid idea, and like I said it’s absolutely your choice, 100%, but I really love you and-“

“Okay.” She says it slowly, all strong piercing gaze that slowly but surely turns to a warm smile and he thinks his soul might have actually left his body for a second because holy shit, okay, he’s actually going to do this instead of just daydreaming about it whenever he decorates a wedding cake or practising with his grandmother’s ring in the bath.

“Okay?” He asks, surprised by the complete disbelief in his voice; in his searching gaze, he finds the first real hope he’s had all day reflected in her eyes.

“Yeah. Yes! That…that actually could work.” Colour has returned to her face for the first time all evening - her smile is as bright as the sun now, brighter and livelier and so overwhelmingly beautiful. She reigns herself in after a second, however, concern washing over her face, as calm and considerate and Amy as ever.

“But…everyone would know. Are you sure you want that? I can’t ask you to give up your life either…”

“I don’t care.” He grins earnestly, then actually takes a second to think about it. “I mean…obviously, it’s going to be weird. And I know that it’s a huge change, but…” He takes her hand. “I can’t lose you. And I don’t want to sneak around anymore.”

“Neither do I.” Her eyes are crinkled with soft joy

“Okay then. Let’s, uh, get engaged!” He springs up on his feet, enthusiastically pulling her up with him with very little grace. They share a bout of half hysterical, blissful laughter as he gets down on one knee, still holding both her hands in his.

“I, uh, don’t have a ring on me.” He realises, slightly sheepish as her laugh continues to float like bubbles into the summer sunset sky.

“What would you do without me, huh?” She shakes her head, eyes still sparkling with amusement as she quickly drops his hands, digging through her velvet pouch until she finds an ornate gold ring that’s probably worth at least a full year of his salary.

He feels a second of sharp, hot embarrassment, familiar fears of inadequacy that is instantly dulled by the proud beam on her face as she places it into his palm. Of course she’s more prepared for this than he is – which sparks another idea.

“Wait…how about you do this?”

“Are you asking me to propose to you?” She raises an eyebrow, but he holds his ground.

“…Maybe.” He shrugs. “Screw stupid patriarchal bullshit tradition, right?”

The smile on her face is so wide he’s worried it might split her face in two; Jake silently vows there and then to dedicate the rest of his days to doing whatever he can to earn that smile from her.

“Definitely. Yes. Okay, um, let me think of what I want to say first.” He gives her back the ring and studies her fondly as she loses herself deep in thought – he can tell that she’s just itching for her notebook and quill to at least structure an outline first, and it just lights him up inside.

She is so consistent, and he doesn’t have the heart to tell her that she doesn’t really need to say anything at all. He already knows what his answer will be.

“Okay. I’m ready.” She shrugs off his cloak and kneels down opposite him – it’s dizzying. He’s still not sure that this isn’t one big fever dream, but if there’s even the slightest chance that joy like this is real, he’s willing to take it.

“I love you.” She begins; so soft and sincere and already perfect. “I love how you’ve always seen me for me, and not who I’m supposed to be. I love how you always remind me what actually matters. I love how you’ve shown me how to have a life outside of the one that’s always been designed for me.”

She takes a steading, shaky breath; he thinks I love you I love you I love you over and over and over again.

“You have this incredibly kind, good, wonderful heart. You love openly and unashamedly, and I want to love you that same way for the rest of my life, if that’s okay with you.”

He laughs, and it’s shaky too; he can actually feel all the emotion welling up inside of him like it’s all physically lodged in his throat. “It definitely is.”

“Cool.” She beams through tears; this time, her eyes never once leave his. “I want you and no-one else. This has always been my choice to make, and I choose you. Will you marry me?”

He kisses her intently then, unable to hold himself back any longer; he pulls her as close as he can, spinning her around, and it’s joy, the light feeling in his chest – pure unadulterated ecstasy that seems to crackle in the air around them, overwhelming wonder that this kind of happiness can last.

“Is that a yes?” She breathes as they finally break apart, eyes still shut, foreheads still pressed together. Even the rolling waves of the ocean would part for them, now, he’s sure of it. In this moment, the seven kingdoms would crumble and fall before they could be forced apart again.

“God, yes.” He says, kissing her again; the stars are watching fondly by now, and they’ll allow this tiny miracle, give their blessing to the ring that is comically far too small for Jake’s finger and yet also somehow completely perfect. He murmurs it against her lips, then into the top of her head as they hold each other, again and again and again until the word loses all meaning altogether.

He’s late home that night, too – but the light feeling in his chest never falters.

***

She’s late. It worries him.

Only by a minute or two, not long enough to justify sounding the castle alarms or bursting dramatically into her chambers. Barely enough to even be worried, and yet still enough to get him pacing frantically up and down the corridor outside the library – Amy’s favourite spot in the entire castle.

It has the most beautiful view of the lake and the forest beyond it; amongst a maelstrom of other feelings, he has a yearning to just drop everything and run out there now.  The only thing keeping him anchored to castle grounds is the deep rooted  fear of Amy herself probably executing him herself if he didn’t show up to this dinner.

(She’s been planning every intricate detail of this event for weeks; all he has to do is wear this ridiculous fancy outfit and not embarrass himself in front of her entire family. Easier said than done, especially as most of said family don’t exactly approve of their engagement.)

It’s love for Amy too, of course, that’s always kept him anchored; it’s why the familiar click-clack of her heels on the old wooden floor coming ever closer elicits such a fresh breath of relief.

“Hey, you wanted to see me?” She says, or at least that’s what he thinks she’s says; when he finally lays eyes on her Jake is slightly too busy being overwhelmed at the glowing presence before him to process anything else. He realises his mouth is hanging open a few seconds too late and promptly closes it, finding a quiet delight in the unmistakable blush on her cheeks.

“Oh, wow. You look beautiful.” She does; her ballgown is an sophisticated shade of dark red that compliments her perfectly, her skirt almost creating the illusion of floating as it wafts behind her. She’s all soft, practically lit up, the epitome of poise and grace – best of all, her hair, usually formally tied back in tight, complicated braids, falls loose in perfect curls that elegantly frame her face.

She looks like an oil painting, a masterpiece flawlessly sculpted and come to life - he is the luckiest man on earth.

“Thank you.” She smiles, shyly at first, before her grin broadens to mirror his own. “You look beautiful too.”

“Thanks.” He pulls a face, tugs at the stiff, almost suffocating collar of his fancy velvet cloak. “Kinda feels like I’m playing dress up.”

The brief respite of being completely mesmerised by his fiancée is quickly over; as if she can sense his shift in mood Amy steps closer to him, placing a comforting hand over his heart which he instinctively holds close.

“What did you want to talk to me about?”

He clenches his free fist, anxiety running white hot. “I feel like…it’s stupid.” He wants to run away more than ever, but her searching expression tells him she won’t let this go.

“What if I use the wrong fork?” He finally blurts, brain running wild with the conspiracy theory that this engagement dinner is really just a golden shining opportunity for Amy’s family to poke and prod at everything that’s ever made him feel not good enough for her.

She furrows her brow in confusion; he sighs, running his hand through his hair and then instantly worrying that he’s messed that up too. “What if I don’t use the fancy napkins correctly or I stain this fancy outfit or I don’t address the guests with their correct titles or-“

“- Jake –“

“- I just…don’t wanna mess this up. I don’t want your family to hate me more than they already do, and I know it doesn’t matter because the only thing that matters is what you think but…I just want to be…” He sighs again, frustration making his words dense and unusually heavy – this is a burden he’s been carrying around for a long time. “I just want to be good enough.”

“Jake.” She says again, more firmly than last time – when he forces himself to meet her gaze, there is already infinite comfort in her reassuring smile.

“You know why I’ve put so much effort into this stupid dinner?” He shakes his head. “It’s because I want to give my family the opportunity to see just how amazing you are.”

“You’re not going to mess this up – even if you do, you said it yourself. It doesn’t matter.” She pauses for emphasis, gently squeezing his hand. “Whatever happens, I’m going to be beside you the whole time. My family are going to have to accept that sooner or later, whether they approve or not.”

Her eyes glitter with familiar unshakeable determination and he feels his heart swell with gratitude. Water is wet, the sky is blue and Amy loves him. It doesn’t matter if he’s never sure of anything else again – that one certainty is more than enough to silence the doubts roaring in his chest.

“You’re amazing.” His tone is nothing but reverent; she blushes again.

“So are you. And half of my brothers already love you anyway. Manny’s practically desperate for your autograph.” They share a warm smile; for a second, he indulges in their own little bubble of happiness, letting the rest of the world fall away. He can’t wait to be married to her.

“Oh, wait.” He smacks his palm against his forehead, eyes wide. “I nearly forgot – uh, hold on a second.” He fumbles with the clasp of his cloak, undoing it to hastily reach for the ring he has safely tucked away in the breast pocket. He produces it with a theatrical flourish, and her eyes light up.

“Is that-“

“-My grandmother’s, yeah.” He grins brightly before gently slipping it on to her finger. She holds her hand up to the light to admire it properly; he’s sure it’s tiny glinting diamond barely compares to what she’s used to, but he hopes the sentimental value gives it more weight.

“I know it’s small, but-“

“It’s beautiful.” She says earnestly, quelling his fears yet again. “I love it. Thank you.” She cups his jaw and kisses him softly – the cool metal against his skin makes him smile against her lips, a twin to the ornate gold ring hanging around his neck.

“She would have really loved you.” He says, sincere; she quietly glows with pride and they share  another smile, this one rudely interrupted by the chiming of the clock tower outside. Amy’s eyes widen and she gives him an apologetic grimace, groaning in frustration.

“Oh no, I have to meet with the Ambassador about those new trading routes…”

“It’s fine.” He says, then laughs when she still looks concerned, waving her off. “Go! I’ll still be here when you get back, I promise.” No matter how much he loves the forest, he has no desire to escape there now that he’s found something so much more liberating.

“Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” She frowns, glancing at the clock again - for once his certainty refuses to waver.

“Of course I will. I’ve got you.”

“You’re so cheesy.”

“See you at eight.” He salutes playfully; she rolls her eyes and kisses him quick before striding off to go save the world.

As he watches her go, no ache of longing or yearning follows - he smiles to himself before heading down to the kitchen to see what samples of tonight’s feast he can persuade Charles to give him. It’s freeing, the ring around his neck - he doesn’t need to worry about what’s in their future or when the next precious second they can steal away together will be.  

They’ve got all the time in the world.

[dcbrierton]

self-care

Was not tagged by @chainofclovers, however she said anyone should do this who wants to and look, I am on Tumblr because I have something to procrastinate, so I want to.

🌿 Favourite comfort food: Not a specific food as such, but I find the knowledge that someone else is making dinner very comforting. (One of the things I like best about my household is that this happens a lot, because we share cooking with our friends/landlords/upstairs neighbors. In this time of pandemic, since no one can go anywhere else to eat, this happens even more!)

In terms of particular foods, I definitely comfort eat chocolate and other sweet things. Brownies are a particular favorite.

🌼 Favourite alcohol (or hot drink!): Something I have learned about myself is that my brain thinks I should consume water and food, and really nothing else in between. It doesn’t generate an impulse to drink interesting beverages, even if I keep them in the house. But I enjoy a mug of hot chocolate when it is presented to me! Especially with marshmallows.

🌷 Favourite relaxing activity: One of my cats has a much more relaxing affect than the other (when she’s getting what she wants, anyway). Probably the nicest way to destress is petting her and gazing into her eyes while she purrs. On the other hand, I also like to knit while watching tv, an activity that some would say is relaxing, and she makes it very, um, challenging at times.  

🌸 Favourite fluffy/feel-good fic: I like to be in the midst of an epic fic for maximum bedtime reading comfort. Currently I’m rereading @telanu’s Devil Wears Prada fic Truth and Measure for this purpose. I would recommend it!

🌻 Favourite calming scent: open windows. (It has been cold for this lately, but I think I can get away with one tomorrow in the room that gets afternoon sun!)

🌺 Favourite relaxing (or uplifting) song: Currently running through my head is “Safe in the Harbor” as sung in my college singalong group. It’s been 13 years since I was able to attend regularly, but one of the silver linings of current times for me was a virtual session last week in which one person broadcast on Facebook live and the rest of us followed along from home. I found this surprisingly effective in producing the effect of group singing, though probably dependent on having been in real physical proximity with this group many times in the past.

🌵 Favourite white noise: I’m not sure I like a white noise? I like the general sense of people being in the house, I suppose. Sometimes. I used to like the sound of rain outside, but a series of leak issues has rendered this less relaxing, hopefully only temporarily.

🍄 Favourite book to get lost in: I often reread books when I want to quickly become lost in one. Patricia Wrede, Tamora Pierce, and Lois Bujold are some of my favorite authors for this purpose. More recent discoveries that are filling the same role are Becky Chambers’ Wayfarers series and Rachel Hartman’s beautiful YA fantasies. One thing that keeps me coming back to all of these authors is the sense that they are working out How To Live Well for their characters (even if some of the earlier Pierce books in particular have some [Minnesota voice] interesting choices about what that means). Also, you know, escapism.

💐 Favourite chill-out TV show: The Great British Bake Off. Not just TV, also inspiration for grandiose baking plans! Seriously, I have baked a lot of stuff inspired by this show, and much of it has been great. (Don’t get too impressed by my baking skills, it’s mostly just inspiration for flavors and shapes of enriched breads. I’m a vegan; all those fancy cakes where you have to whip the egg whites just right are not happening here.)

🌹 The best advice you’ve ever had: Treat yourself like a toddler: make sure you are sleeping enough, getting outside and/or moving around enough, and eating appropriately. Sometimes it feels like all my complex feelings cannot be effectively addressed by this simple physical-maintenance-of-the-body stuff, and that’s true, but also kind of not true. (I think it feels that way to toddlers too.)

***

Consider yourself tagged if you would like to be!

[dietbetesguide-blog]

Prevention of diabetes through healthy Interaction

All around the world the cases of diabetes are going up. Various reasons contribute to this scenario:with the rise of cheap sugary foods available in the market, increasing obesity levels, and poor work/life balance. Diabetes is one of the top non-communicable diseases in the developed world.  Diabetes occurs when your blood sugar levels spike too high. The hormone called Insulin which is made in the pancreas helps glucose(sugar) enter your cells for energy. If you have diabetes the Insulin does not work, is not enough, or is not made at all. Then the glucose stays outside of the cell rendering it useless.

There are two types of diabetes. Type I Diabetes and Type II Diabetes. At this time It is not currently known how to prevent Type I Diabetes, so therefore this blog will focus on Type II Diabetes.

The symptoms of Diabetes include the following, but are not limited to:

-Slow healing of wounds

-Extreme Fatigue

-High blood sugar levels

-Increased thirst

-High blood sugar

There are many ways to prevent and combat Diabetes, but take note once you get it you stay with it.

The pyramid above shows the recommended daily  food intake and  lifestyle that might help prevent the development of Type II Diabetes:

1. Choosing water over other beverages

2. Eating at least three servings of vegetables daily

3. Choosing lean meat, poultry, or seafood over red, and processed meats

4. Choosing whole grain bread or brown rice over white rice and white bread

5. Consuming unsaturated fats( olive oil, sunflower oil, corn oil) instead of saturated fats( butter, animal fat, coconut oil, palm oil)

6. Exercise daily

7. Limiting added sugar intake

8. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle

1. Choosing water over other beverages

Water is the most hydrating beverage. It does not contain sugar. Therefore It is the best beverage. Drinking water over other fluids(especially sugary drinks like soda) helps prevent diabetes by giving your body its most important nutrient(which is water). We should all drink eight glasses or 2 liters or half a gallon everyday, more if you live in a hotter climate.

2. Eating at least three serving of vegetables daily

 Vegetables should always be a key part of any healthy diet. Vegetable provide an assortment of nutrients while being low in carbs. These nutrients are vital to our body so we should consume  more of them. Overall vegetables are great sources of vitamins that the body needs without being high in sugar.

3.  Choosing lean meat, poultry, or seafood over red, and processed meats

Our body needs protein to repair and create our cells. We should choose lean meat, poultry, and seafood over processed and red meat, due to the fact that they have a much less fat content and contain more beneficial nutrients (especially fish). Studies show that red and processed meat drastically increase the risk of may non-communicable diseases (such as Diabetes). Processed and red meat also makes a higher environmental footprint over healthier meats.

4. Choosing whole grain bread or brown rice over white rice and white bread

Whole grain bread and brown rice contain more nutrients than refined grains. They both contain more fiber and nutrients and has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice and white bread.  High glycemic index foods or those with higher sugar content, are associated with an increased risk of metabolic diseases, especially insulin resistance and diabetes. 

5. Consuming unsaturated fats( olive oil, sunflower oil, corn oil) instead of saturated fats( butter, animal fat, coconut oil, palm oil)

The two types of fat are Saturated and Unsaturated Fat. Saturated means higher amount of fat(usually contain more bad cholesterol). Unsaturated fats contain good cholesterol which combats bad cholesterol. Unsaturated Fats also contain more vitamins. Unsaturated fats are also better for the environment.

6. Exercise daily

All of us should strive to exercise regularly. Exercise is a vital part of a healthy life. Exercise burn fat, promotes muscle growth, and reduces stress whats not to like about it? Unfortunately in this modern world sedentary behaviors prevent us from exercising. We always should at least try to exercise.

7. Limiting added sugar intake

There are two types of sugars; natural sugars and added sugars. Natural sugars(such as apples and other fruits) are more nutritious and contain more vitamins than added sugars(donuts, table sugar, candy and other manufactured high sugar foods). The body has no actual need for added sugar, so you can exclude them from your diet without problem. 

8. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle is a lifestyle of little to no physical activity. Lack of physical activity causes degradation of muscle tissues which means that the body does not burn fat. A Sedentary lifestyle has proven to increase the risk of almost any disease.

That was just some of the 8 ways to prevent type 2 Diabetes. Thanks to all the readers who have made it this far. Hopefully none of you get Diabetes, but only time can tell. Stay safe. This Informative blog which is a school project was brought to you by:

Editor: Timothy John  H Lumubos

Researcher: Curt Jethro B Hinojosan 

From 7 Laguna

Sources:

https://www.idf.org/prevention

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/prevent-diabetes

https://medlineplus.gov/howtopreventdiabetes.html

https://www.medicinenet.com/diabetes_prevention/article.htm

[pk663-blog]

Multi nutrient-rich bilberry is important in keeping skin health and wellness, cardio physical fitness, cognitive strength, healthy and also disease-free eyes, unobstructed blood flow and far better functioning of the general body.

 For numerous decades, the anticancer potential, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory buildings of bilberry have actually been treasured for their performance in a series of disorders including diarrhea, diabetes, liver and also kidney damages.

What is Bilberry?

Bilberry is a tiny edible dark blueberry of a low-growing bush in the category Vaccinium. Bilberry is scientifically referred to as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close relative of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, as well as cranberry. [1] These are scrumptious berries are belonging to Northern Europe as well as have actually been valued for their therapeutic performance in the traditional system of European medicine for numerous centuries.

Bilberry is a spreading, low-growing, deciduous bush with slim branches having tiny pinkish blooms as well as intense green, oval and pointed fallen leaves. [2] The plant returns dark purple berries gathered during summertime time and also can be made use of fresh or in dried out form. Today, they are grown in Northern Asia, Europe, and The United States And Canada and also are coming to be rather preferred as a scrumptious ingredient in preserves, pies, and jams as well as for their capacity to deal with a range of health and wellness conditions.

Nutritional Facts

Similar to its relatives, huckleberry, as well as blueberry, bilberry is the richest natural resources of anthocyanin, which is an anti-oxidant that supplies it the dark blue color. [3] Together with anthocyanin, it also contains various other phenolic parts such as quercetin, tannins, pectin, as well as catechins. It likewise consists of alkaloids, carbonic acids, and a series of crucial nutrients consisting of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and K. The mineral prize present in it chromium, manganese, zinc, and iron. [4]

Wellness Conveniences of Bilberry

Right here are the primary ways that bilberries can make you healthy and balanced. Take a look at them.

Boosts Vision

Bilberry serves for the upkeep of eye health. [1] Scientific researches have additionally advocated the performance of bilberry remove in avoiding age-related ocular problems in addition to various other eye illness such as cataract and night-blindness. [3] Leutin existing in the eye, when combined with the compounds existing in bilberry, helps enhance vision. [3] Another study performed on bilberry has likewise suggested that its beneficial enzyme-stimulating task shields the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. [5] Its extracts stimulate the production of rhodopsin pigment which sustains the eye to adapt to light adjustments. [2]

Treats Diarrhea

Bilberry has actually been utilized to deal with belly disorders such as looseness of the bowels, indigestion, as well as queasiness. [6] Its anti-inflammatory as well as astringent homes assist to tighten up cells as well as minimize the signs and symptoms of looseness of the bowels.

A white dish of fresh bilberries with fallen leaves on a wooden table

Anti-inflammatory Activity

As a result of the astringent action of tannins and also pectin existing in bilberry, it applies a therapeutic result on belly swellings. It additionally heals inflammation triggered by the mucous membrane layers of the throat and also mouth when used topically. Anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties of this fruit likewise assist in healing problems like apoplexy as well as angina.

Blood Health

Research study studies have verified the favorable effects of bilberry on high blood pressure and also vascular health bring about the restraint of platelet aggregation and smooth contraction. It helps to reinforce capillaries, promotes circulation and also avoids problems like varicose capillaries as well as hemorrhoids.

Persistent Venous Insufficiency

Chronic venous deficiency is a problem in which the valves in leg blood vessels that lug blood to the heart gets damaged. [7] This causes itching, swelling, as well as pain in the leg. It often likewise leads to skin ulcers. The anthocyanosides existing in bilberry help to reinforce the capillary and also decrease the symptoms.

Controls Diabetes

The performance of bilberry for avoiding and also curing diabetes mellitus has been appreciated since early times as well as has actually likewise been promoted by current clinical searchings for. It helps in regulating the blood sugar levels in the body, as a result of the rich focus of anthocyanins. Studies suggest its nutritional remove helps in enhancing the condition of hyperglycemia and insulin level of sensitivity in the people struggling with type-2 diabetes mellitus. [8]

May Help Stop Cancer Cells

A group of scientists from the University of California Santa Barbara led by Nguyen V et al. [9] discovered that bilberry removes had an antiproliferative effect on human breast cancer cells. They stop the spreading of malignant cells and also generate apoptosis. A comparative research carried out on different berries has rendered bilberry to be the most powerful in restraint of cancerous cells. [3] It also helps to stop the side effects of chemotherapy.

Neuroprotective Results

Bilberry can lower the threat of cognitive problems such as mental deterioration and Alzheimer's. [10] The phenolic substances present in the fruit alleviates these neurological concerns.

Menstrual Pains

Ladies have actually likewise reported its impacts on decreasing menstruation pains. Bilberry extract is additionally effective in treating abscess and also hindering fibrocystic bust disease.

Skin Care

Bilberry supports and toughens the collagen frameworks, delays microbial development and helps in detoxing of the body. It is also recommended by doctors prior to surgical treatments in order to lower the linked blood loss later on.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it an important multi-purpose solution. The rich resource of anthocyanosides works water-soluble chemicals that have extreme scavenging qualities. They seek for oxygen-free radicals created throughout basal metabolism and also neutralize their impacts. This safety activity avoids the event of numerous problems caused consequently of oxidative tension.

Maintains Liver Health

Researchers have actually revealed that the inhibitory and also extreme scavenging activity of bilberry extracts improves the degree of beneficial glutathione and vitamin C in the body and also minimizes the focus of nitric oxide in the liver tissues.

Avoids Kidney Failure

One more antioxidant result of bilberry is its defense against kidney damage. Scientific study has actually shown that its removes assist in stabilizing numerous vital elements consisting of levels of creatinine, lotion, blood, urea, nitrogen, as well as nitric oxide. [11] It also aids to eliminate hefty metals from the body resulting in far better detoxing.

Wellness advantages of bilberry - infographic

Cardioprotective Impacts

The heart-protective effect is attributed to the possibility of anthocyanins existing in bilberry, which helps in regulating the LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol levels in the body. [12] Another research study has recommended that it additionally assists in stopping multiple heart diseases such as atherosclerosis. [13]

Antimicrobial Effects

Bilberry includes phenolic parts which have also been located to exert antimicrobial activity. [3] This repressive activity of the berry antagonizes different human virus consisting of salmonella, H.pylori, Bacillus, Clostridium and Staphylococcus aureus, and also prevents the advancement of affiliated illness. Current scientific findings additionally suggest the capacity of its remove in dealing with antibiotic-resistant organisms.

Uses of Bilberry

Bilberry can be eaten in fresh, dried, powdered, drawn out, or in fluid type. When acquiring the essence, make sure that you acquire the ones that have 25% anthocyanin in it completely health and wellness outcomes. There are various methods to serve the fruit such as:

Add bilberry fruit or the leaves to warm water as well as serve yourself a healthy tea!

Utilize the berry as a filling up for pies and tarts.

Prepare its jams and also cherish it with bread.

You can additionally consume some revitalizing bilberry juice. The juice is also utilized as a base for liqueur and as a flavor for sorbets and various other desserts.

If you slouch to do any of the above, just gobble it up in its raw kind! It works as a yummy snack too.

Side Effects

Although bilberry is taken into consideration secure for usage, there are a couple of exemptions [14] that demand to be considered:

[cameramonkey01-blog]

Multi nutrient-rich bilberry is important in keeping skin health and wellness, cardiovascular health and fitness, cognitive toughness, healthy and balanced as well as healthsome eyes, unobstructed blood flow as well as better performance of the total body.

 For lots of decades, the anticancer capacity, antimicrobial, antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory properties of bilberry have been valued for their performance in a variety of disorders consisting of diarrhea, diabetes, liver and kidney damages.

What is Bilberry?

Bilberry is a small edible dark blueberry of a low-growing bush in the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is clinically described as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close family member of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, as well as cranberry. [1] These are tasty berries are belonging to Northern Europe and have actually been valued for their healing efficiency in the standard system of European medication for numerous centuries.

Bilberry is a dispersing, low-growing, deciduous hedge with slim branches having tiny pinkish blossoms and brilliant environment-friendly, oblong and also sharp fallen leaves. [2] The plant returns dark purple berries collected throughout summer season time and can be used fresh or in dried form. Today, they are cultivated in Northern Asia, Europe, as well as The United States And Canada and are ending up being rather popular as a delicious component in maintains, pies, as well as jams along with for their capacity to treat a range of wellness conditions.

Nutritional Information

Similar to its cousins, huckleberry, and blueberry, bilberry is the richest natural sources of anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that supplies it the dark blue shade. [3] Together with anthocyanin, it likewise contains other phenolic parts such as quercetin, tannins, pectin, as well as catechins. It also contains alkaloids, carbonic acids, and a variety of important nutrients including vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and also K. The mineral treasure existing in it chromium, manganese, zinc, and also iron. [4]

Health Benefits of Bilberry

Below are the major manner ins which bilberries can make you healthy and balanced. Have a look at them.

Boosts Vision

Bilberry serves for the maintenance of eye wellness. [1] Scientific researches have likewise supported the performance of bilberry extract in protecting against age-related ocular disorders together with other eye diseases such as cataract and also night-blindness. [3] Leutin existing in the eye, when integrated with the compounds existing in bilberry, aids boost vision. [3] An additional study conducted on bilberry has actually additionally recommended that its advantageous enzyme-stimulating task secures the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. [5] Its extracts boost the production of rhodopsin pigment which supports the eye to adapt to light adjustments. [2]

Deals with Diarrhea

Bilberry has actually been utilized to treat belly disorders such as looseness of the bowels, indigestion, and also queasiness. [6] Its anti-inflammatory as well as astringent buildings assist to tighten cells and decrease the signs and symptoms of looseness of the bowels.

A white bowl of fresh bilberries with fallen leaves on a wooden table

Anti-inflammatory Activity

Due to the astringent action of tannins as well as pectin existing in bilberry, it exerts a healing impact on stomach swellings. It also recovers inflammation caused by the mucous membrane layers of the throat and also mouth when applied topically. Anti-inflammatory homes of this fruit likewise aid in curing problems like thrombosis and angina.

Blood Health

Research study researches have confirmed the favorable effects of bilberry on high blood pressure and also vascular health and wellness resulting in the inhibition of platelet gathering and smooth contraction. It aids to reinforce capillaries, promotes circulation and protects against problems like varicose veins as well as hemorrhoids.

Chronic Venous Lack

Chronic venous insufficiency is a problem in which the valves in leg blood vessels that lug blood to the heart obtains harmed. [7] This results in itching, swelling, and also pain in the leg. It sometimes also results in skin abscess. The anthocyanosides present in bilberry assistance to enhance the capillary as well as reduce the symptoms.

Controls Diabetic issues

The efficiency of bilberry for preventing as well as healing diabetic issues has actually been valued since early times and has actually likewise been supported by current scientific searchings for. It aids in managing the blood sugar level levels in the body, due to the rich focus of anthocyanins. Studies recommend its nutritional extract helps in enhancing the condition of hyperglycemia and also insulin sensitivity in the people struggling with type-2 diabetes mellitus. [8]

May Aid Avoid Cancer Cells

A group of scientists from the University of The golden state Santa Barbara led by Nguyen V et al. [9] found that bilberry extracts had an antiproliferative impact on human breast cancer cells. They stop the expansion of malignant cells as well as cause apoptosis. A relative research study conducted on various berries has rendered bilberry to be one of the most powerful in restraint of cancerous cells. [3] It likewise assists to prevent the side effects of radiation treatment.

Neuroprotective Effects

Bilberry can decrease the danger of cognitive issues such as mental deterioration as well as Alzheimer's. [10] The phenolic compounds present in the fruit minimizes these neurological concerns.

Menstruation Cramps

Women have actually likewise reported its results on reducing menstrual pains. Bilberry essence is likewise reliable in treating ulcers as well as preventing fibrocystic bust disease.

Skin Treatment

Bilberry sustains and also strengthens the collagen structures, stalls microbial growth and also assists in cleansing of the body. It is likewise advised by doctors before surgical procedures in order to reduce the associated blood loss later on.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it an important multipurpose remedy. The abundant source of anthocyanosides works water-soluble chemicals that possess extreme scavenging top qualities. They choose for oxygen-free radicals produced throughout basal metabolism and also neutralize their effects. This protective action stops the event of numerous problems triggered as a consequence of oxidative tension.

Keeps Liver Health

Researchers have revealed that the repressive as well as radical scavenging task of bilberry extracts improves the level of useful glutathione and vitamin C in the body and decreases the concentration of nitric oxide in the liver cells.

Avoids Kidney Failure

Another antioxidant impact of bilberry is its defense versus kidney damage. Scientific research study has shown that its removes help in stabilizing numerous crucial variables consisting of degrees of creatinine, product, blood, urea, nitrogen, and nitric oxide. [11] It additionally aids to secrete heavy metals from the body causing far better cleansing.

Health and wellness benefits of bilberry - infographic

Cardioprotective Effects

The heart-protective result is attributed to the capacity of anthocyanins present in bilberry, which aids in regulating the LDL (poor) and HDL (good) cholesterol degrees in the body. [12] An additional research study has actually recommended that it likewise assists in avoiding several heart diseases such as atherosclerosis. [13]

Antimicrobial Results

Bilberry includes phenolic elements which have additionally been located to exert antimicrobial task. [3] This inhibitory activity of the berry antagonizes different human microorganisms including salmonella, H.pylori, Bacillus, Clostridium and Staphylococcus aureus, and also protects against the development of associated diseases. Recent scientific searchings for additionally recommend the capacity of its essence in combating antibiotic-resistant organisms.

Use Bilberry

Bilberry can be eaten in fresh, dried out, powdered, extracted, or in liquid form. When purchasing the extract, guarantee that you get the ones that have 25% anthocyanin in it permanently health results. There are different methods to serve the fruit such as:

Add bilberry fruit or the leaves to hot water as well as serve yourself a healthy and balanced tea!

Utilize the berry as a filling for pies and also tarts.

Prepare its jams and cherish it with bread.

You can also consume some revitalizing bilberry juice. The juice is additionally used as a base for liqueur and also as a flavoring for sorbets as well as various other desserts.

If you are lazy to do any of the above, just swallow it up in its raw form! It functions as a scrumptious treat also.

Side Effects

Although bilberry is taken into consideration secure for usage, there are a few exceptions [14] that requirement to be taken into consideration:

[afroditesworld-blog]

Multi nutrient-rich bilberry is beneficial in preserving skin health, cardio fitness, cognitive toughness, healthy and balanced as well as healthsome eyes, unblocked blood flow as well as better performance of the overall body.

 For numerous years, the anticancer capacity, antimicrobial, antioxidant and also anti-inflammatory properties of bilberry have actually been prized for their performance in a variety of problems consisting of diarrhea, diabetic issues, liver as well as kidney damage.

What is Bilberry?

Bilberry is a small edible dark blueberry of a low-growing bush in the category Vaccinium. Bilberry is scientifically referred to as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close relative of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, and also cranberry. [1] These are tasty berries are belonging to Northern Europe and also have been valued for their healing effectiveness in the conventional system of European medicine for many centuries.

Bilberry is a dispersing, low-growing, deciduous shrub with slim branches having small pinkish blossoms as well as intense green, oval as well as pointed leaves. [2] The plant yields dark purple berries gathered during summer time and also can be used fresh or in dried out kind. Today, they are cultivated in Northern Asia, Europe, as well as The United States And Canada and are ending up being rather preferred as a tasty active ingredient in protects, pies, and also jams in addition to for their capacity to treat a series of health problems.

Nutritional Information

Much like its relatives, huckleberry, and blueberry, bilberry is the richest all-natural sources of anthocyanin, which is an anti-oxidant that provides it the dark blue shade. [3] In addition to anthocyanin, it likewise includes various other phenolic parts such as quercetin, tannins, pectin, and also catechins. It likewise contains alkaloids, carbonic acids, and a series of vital nutrients consisting of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and also K. The mineral treasure present in it chromium, manganese, zinc, and iron. [4]

Health Conveniences of Bilberry

Below are the primary manner ins which bilberries can make you healthy and balanced. Have a look at them.

Improves Vision

Bilberry serves for the maintenance of eye health. [1] Scientific research studies have also advocated the effectiveness of bilberry remove in avoiding age-related ocular conditions along with other eye conditions such as cataract as well as night-blindness. [3] Leutin present in the eye, when incorporated with the compounds present in bilberry, helps improve vision. [3] Another research study conducted on bilberry has additionally recommended that its valuable enzyme-stimulating task protects the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. [5] Its removes boost the production of rhodopsin pigment which supports the eye to adapt to light modifications. [2]

Treats Diarrhea

Bilberry has been made use of to treat belly problems such as looseness of the bowels, acid indigestion, as well as queasiness. [6] Its anti-inflammatory as well as astringent residential or commercial properties assist to tighten up cells and also decrease the symptoms of diarrhea.

A white bowl of fresh bilberries with fallen leaves on a wooden table

Anti-inflammatory Activity

As a result of the astringent action of tannins and also pectin existing in bilberry, it exerts a therapeutic impact on belly swellings. It likewise heals swelling caused by the mucous membranes of the throat and also mouth when used topically. Anti-inflammatory buildings of this fruit also assist in curing problems like apoplexy and also angina.

Blood Wellness

Study researches have validated the favorable effects of bilberry on blood pressure as well as vascular health leading to the restraint of platelet gathering and smooth contraction. It helps to reinforce blood vessels, boosts blood circulation as well as prevents problems like varicose veins and also hemorrhoids.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Persistent venous insufficiency is a condition in which the shutoffs in leg veins that carry blood to the heart obtains damaged. [7] This causes itching, swelling, and also pain in the leg. It often also causes skin ulcers. The anthocyanosides existing in bilberry aid to strengthen the capillary and also reduce the signs.

Controls Diabetes mellitus

The effectiveness of bilberry for stopping as well as treating diabetic issues has been valued considering that early times and also has actually also been supported by current clinical findings. It helps in controling the blood glucose levels in the body, as a result of the rich concentration of anthocyanins. Studies suggest its dietary extract helps in boosting the problem of hyperglycemia and also insulin sensitivity in the people suffering from type-2 diabetic issues. [8]

May Aid Stop Cancer

A group of scientists from the College of California Santa Barbara led by Nguyen V et al. [9] found that bilberry removes had an antiproliferative result on human bust cancer cells. They protect against the expansion of malignant cells as well as cause apoptosis. A relative research performed on different berries has actually rendered bilberry to be the most powerful in inhibition of malignant cells. [3] It likewise helps to prevent the negative effects of radiation treatment.

Neuroprotective Effects

Bilberry can decrease the threat of cognitive problems such as dementia and also Alzheimer's. [10] The phenolic substances present in the fruit eases these neurological problems.

Menstruation Aches

Females have also reported its impacts on lowering menstruation cramps. Bilberry essence is additionally effective in healing abscess and hindering fibrocystic breast illness.

Skin Care

Bilberry supports and toughens the collagen structures, delays microbial development and also assists in detoxing of the body. It is likewise suggested by medical professionals prior to surgical treatments in order to reduce the associated blood loss later.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it a valuable multi-purpose solution. The abundant source of anthocyanosides serves water-soluble chemicals that have radical scavenging top qualities. They choose for oxygen-free radicals generated throughout basal metabolism and also counteract their impacts. This safety activity prevents the event of lots of troubles caused as a consequence of oxidative stress and anxiety.

Preserves Liver Health And Wellness

Scientists have actually shown that the inhibitory as well as radical scavenging activity of bilberry essences enhances the level of valuable glutathione as well as vitamin C in the body and also lowers the concentration of nitric oxide in the liver cells.

Protects Against Kidney Failure

An additional antioxidant effect of bilberry is its defense against kidney damage. Scientific study has actually shown that its extracts help in stabilizing several vital variables including degrees of creatinine, serum, blood, urea, nitrogen, as well as nitric oxide. [11] It additionally assists to eliminate hefty steels from the body causing better detoxing.

Health and wellness benefits of bilberry - infographic

Cardioprotective Impacts

The heart-protective impact is credited to the potential of anthocyanins existing in bilberry, which assists in controling the LDL (negative) as well as HDL (great) cholesterol degrees in the body. [12] An additional research study has actually suggested that it also assists in preventing numerous heart diseases such as atherosclerosis. [13]

Antimicrobial Results

Bilberry consists of phenolic elements which have actually likewise been found to put in antimicrobial task. [3] This repressive action of the berry works against different human virus consisting of salmonella, H.pylori, Bacillus, Clostridium and also Staphylococcus aureus, and stops the development of associated diseases. Current clinical searchings for also recommend the possibility of its essence in combating antibiotic-resistant organisms.

Uses of Bilberry

Bilberry can be consumed in fresh, dried out, powdered, extracted, or in fluid type. When buying the remove, ensure that you purchase the ones that have 25% anthocyanin in it completely health and wellness outcomes. There are different ways to offer the fruit such as:

Include bilberry fruit or the leaves to hot water and serve yourself a healthy and balanced tea!

Use the berry as a loading for pies and tarts.

Prepare its jams and also cherish it with bread.

You can likewise drink some revitalizing bilberry juice. The juice is additionally utilized as a base for liqueur and also as a flavor for sorbets and also other treats.

If you slouch to do any one of the above, simply gobble it up in its raw kind! It works as a tasty snack too.

Side Effects

Although bilberry is thought about risk-free for consumption, there are a couple of exemptions [14] that demand to be considered:

[radicalmercy-blog1]

Multi nutrient-rich bilberry is useful in preserving skin health and wellness, cardiovascular fitness, cognitive toughness, healthy and balanced and disease-free eyes, unhampered blood flow and also far better functioning of the general body.

 For lots of decades, the anticancer possibility, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory buildings of bilberry have been valued for their effectiveness in a variety of conditions consisting of looseness of the bowels, diabetes mellitus, liver as well as kidney damages.

What is Bilberry?

Bilberry is a tiny edible dark blueberry of a low-growing shrub in the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is scientifically referred to as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close relative of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, and also cranberry. [1] These are tasty berries are native to Northern Europe as well as have been valued for their healing effectiveness in the standard system of European medicine for several centuries.

Bilberry is a dispersing, low-growing, deciduous shrub with slender branches having small pinkish blossoms and also bright eco-friendly, oval as well as pointed fallen leaves. [2] The plant yields dark purple berries collected throughout summertime time and also can be made use of fresh or in dried out type. Today, they are cultivated in Northern Asia, Europe, and also The United States And Canada as well as are becoming fairly popular as a delicious active ingredient in preserves, pies, and jams as well as for their capability to deal with a series of wellness conditions.

Nutritional Details

Just like its cousins, huckleberry, as well as blueberry, bilberry is the richest natural resources of anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that provides it the dark blue color. [3] Along with anthocyanin, it additionally has various other phenolic components such as quercetin, tannins, pectin, as well as catechins. It likewise includes alkaloids, carbonic acids, and also a variety of crucial nutrients including vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and K. The mineral prize present in it chromium, manganese, zinc, as well as iron. [4]

Health Perks of Bilberry

Here are the major ways that bilberries can make you healthy. Take a look at them.

Enhances Vision

Bilberry serves for the upkeep of eye health. [1] Scientific research studies have actually also supported the performance of bilberry extract in protecting against age-related eye disorders together with other eye illness such as cataract and night-blindness. [3] Leutin existing in the eye, when combined with the compounds existing in bilberry, aids enhance vision. [3] Another research performed on bilberry has additionally recommended that its helpful enzyme-stimulating activity secures the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. [5] Its essences boost the manufacturing of rhodopsin pigment which supports the eye to adjust to light adjustments. [2]

Deals with Looseness of the bowels

Bilberry has actually been utilized to treat stomach disorders such as diarrhea, acid indigestion, and nausea or vomiting. [6] Its anti-inflammatory and also astringent properties assist to tighten up tissues as well as lower the symptoms of diarrhea.

A white dish of fresh bilberries with leaves on a wood table

Anti-inflammatory Activity

As a result of the astringent action of tannins as well as pectin present in bilberry, it exerts a therapeutic effect on stomach swellings. It additionally recovers swelling brought on by the mucous membrane layers of the throat and mouth when used topically. Anti-inflammatory buildings of this fruit additionally help in curing conditions like thrombosis and angina.

Blood Health

Study research studies have verified the favorable results of bilberry on blood pressure as well as vascular health bring about the restraint of platelet aggregation and also smooth contraction. It assists to enhance blood vessels, promotes circulation as well as avoids disorders like varicose blood vessels as well as hemorrhoids.

Chronic Venous Deficiency

Chronic venous deficiency is a problem in which the valves in leg veins that carry blood to the heart obtains harmed. [7] This causes itching, swelling, as well as discomfort in the leg. It in some cases likewise causes skin abscess. The anthocyanosides existing in bilberry assistance to enhance the capillary and decrease the symptoms.

Controls Diabetes

The efficiency of bilberry for avoiding as well as treating diabetes mellitus has actually been valued since early times and has actually likewise been advocated by recent scientific searchings for. It assists in controling the blood sugar level levels in the body, as a result of the abundant concentration of anthocyanins. Researches suggest its nutritional extract helps in improving the condition of hyperglycemia as well as insulin level of sensitivity in individuals dealing with type-2 diabetes. [8]

May Assist Avoid Cancer

A team of researchers from the University of The golden state Santa Barbara led by Nguyen V et al. [9] located that bilberry essences had an antiproliferative result on human bust cancer cells. They stop the spreading of malignant cells as well as induce apoptosis. A comparative study conducted on various berries has rendered bilberry to be the most potent in inhibition of cancerous cells. [3] It additionally helps to prevent the negative effects of chemotherapy.

Neuroprotective Impacts

Bilberry can decrease the danger of cognitive issues such as mental deterioration and also Alzheimer's. [10] The phenolic substances existing in the fruit minimizes these neurological problems.

Menstruation Cramps

Women have likewise reported its effects on lowering menstruation aches. Bilberry extract is additionally reliable in curing ulcers and preventing fibrocystic breast disease.

Skin Treatment

Bilberry sustains as well as toughens the collagen structures, stalls bacterial growth and also assists in detoxing of the body. It is likewise suggested by physicians prior to surgical procedures in order to decrease the associated bleeding later on.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it an useful multi-purpose treatment. The rich source of anthocyanosides serves water-soluble chemicals that have radical scavenging qualities. They seek for oxygen-free radicals created throughout basal metabolism and also counteract their results. This protective action protects against the event of many troubles triggered therefore of oxidative stress.

Keeps Liver Health And Wellness

Scientists have actually revealed that the inhibitory as well as radical scavenging task of bilberry removes improves the degree of advantageous glutathione and also vitamin C in the body and also reduces the concentration of nitric oxide in the liver cells.

Stops Kidney Failure

One more antioxidant impact of bilberry is its defense against kidney damages. Scientific research has actually shown that its essences assist in stabilizing several essential factors including degrees of creatinine, lotion, blood, urea, nitrogen, and also nitric oxide. [11] It additionally helps to secrete heavy steels from the body causing far better detoxing.

Wellness advantages of bilberry - infographic

Cardioprotective Impacts

The heart-protective impact is credited to the possibility of anthocyanins present in bilberry, which helps in controling the LDL (negative) and HDL (good) cholesterol levels in the body. [12] An additional research study has actually suggested that it likewise helps in avoiding numerous cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. [13]

Antimicrobial Effects

Bilberry consists of phenolic parts which have actually additionally been located to put in antimicrobial task. [3] This repressive action of the berry works against various human pathogens including salmonella, H.pylori, Bacillus, Clostridium and Staphylococcus aureus, and stops the advancement of associated conditions. Current clinical findings also suggest the capacity of its essence in combating antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.

Uses of Bilberry

Bilberry can be eaten in fresh, dried, powdered, extracted, or in fluid kind. When acquiring the essence, ensure that you purchase the ones that have 25% anthocyanin in it for good health and wellness outcomes. There are different means to serve the fruit such as:

Add bilberry fruit or the leaves to warm water and also serve yourself a healthy and balanced tea!

Make use of the berry as a loading for pies as well as tarts.

Prepare its jams and enjoy it with bread.

You can also consume alcohol some rejuvenating bilberry juice. The juice is likewise utilized as a base for liqueur and as a flavoring for sorbets as well as other desserts.

If you are lazy to do any of the above, just gobble it up in its raw form! It serves as a delicious treat too.

Negative effects

Although bilberry is taken into consideration secure for intake, there are a couple of exceptions [14] that requirement to be taken into consideration:

[eva-nes-cen-ce-blog]

Multi nutrient-rich bilberry is valuable in maintaining skin health, cardiovascular physical fitness, cognitive strength, healthy and disease-free eyes, unobstructed blood circulation and also much better functioning of the total body.

 For many decades, the anticancer possibility, antimicrobial, antioxidant and also anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties of bilberry have been treasured for their effectiveness in a variety of problems consisting of looseness of the bowels, diabetes mellitus, liver and also kidney damages.

What is Bilberry?

Bilberry is a tiny edible dark blueberry of a low-growing shrub in the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is scientifically referred to as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close family member of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, as well as cranberry. [1] These are tasty berries are belonging to Northern Europe and also have been valued for their restorative efficiency in the standard system of European medication for many centuries.

Bilberry is a spreading, low-growing, deciduous bush with slim branches having tiny pinkish blooms and intense environment-friendly, oblong and also sharp leaves. [2] The plant returns dark purple berries gathered during summertime time as well as can be used fresh or in dried out kind. Today, they are grown in Northern Asia, Europe, and North America as well as are becoming fairly popular as a tasty active ingredient in preserves, pies, as well as jams along with for their capability to deal with a range of health problems.

Nutritional Facts

Just like its relatives, huckleberry, and also blueberry, bilberry is the wealthiest natural sources of anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that provides it the dark blue color. [3] In addition to anthocyanin, it likewise has various other phenolic components such as quercetin, tannins, pectin, and catechins. It also has alkaloids, carbonic acids, and a series of essential nutrients consisting of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and also K. The mineral treasure present in it chromium, manganese, zinc, and also iron. [4]

Wellness Conveniences of Bilberry

Below are the main manner ins which bilberries can make you healthy and balanced. Take a look at them.

Improves Vision

Bilberry serves for the upkeep of eye health and wellness. [1] Scientific studies have likewise advocated the effectiveness of bilberry remove in preventing age-related eye disorders together with other eye conditions such as cataract as well as night-blindness. [3] Leutin present in the eye, when incorporated with the compounds existing in bilberry, aids boost vision. [3] One more study carried out on bilberry has additionally suggested that its valuable enzyme-stimulating activity secures the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. [5] Its removes stimulate the manufacturing of rhodopsin pigment which sustains the eye to adapt to light modifications. [2]

Treats Diarrhea

Bilberry has been used to treat tummy conditions such as looseness of the bowels, indigestion, and queasiness. [6] Its anti-inflammatory and astringent homes help to tighten up tissues and also lower the signs and symptoms of looseness of the bowels.

A white dish of fresh bilberries with leaves on a wood table

Anti-inflammatory Activity

As a result of the astringent activity of tannins and also pectin existing in bilberry, it puts in a therapeutic effect on tummy swellings. It additionally recovers inflammation caused by the mucous membranes of the throat and also mouth when applied topically. Anti-inflammatory residential properties of this fruit likewise help in curing problems like thrombosis as well as angina.

Blood Health and wellness

Research studies have confirmed the positive effects of bilberry on high blood pressure and vascular health and wellness causing the restraint of platelet gathering and also smooth muscle contraction. It assists to enhance capillaries, stimulates blood circulation and stops conditions like varicose capillaries and piles.

Persistent Venous Deficiency

Persistent venous insufficiency is a problem in which the valves in leg veins that carry blood to the heart gets harmed. [7] This leads to itching, swelling, and discomfort in the leg. It often additionally leads to skin abscess. The anthocyanosides existing in bilberry aid to reinforce the blood vessels as well as lower the signs.

Controls Diabetes

The performance of bilberry for avoiding and also treating diabetic issues has actually been appreciated since early times and has actually also been promoted by current clinical findings. It assists in managing the blood sugar level degrees in the body, as a result of the abundant concentration of anthocyanins. Research studies recommend its dietary remove helps in boosting the problem of hyperglycemia as well as insulin level of sensitivity in individuals struggling with type-2 diabetes. [8]

May Assist Protect Against Cancer

A group of researchers from the College of California Santa Barbara led by Nguyen V et al. [9] discovered that bilberry removes had an antiproliferative effect on human breast cancer cells. They avoid the proliferation of deadly cells and generate apoptosis. A relative study conducted on different berries has rendered bilberry to be the most potent in inhibition of malignant cells. [3] It additionally aids to avoid the side effects of radiation treatment.

Neuroprotective Effects

Bilberry can reduce the risk of cognitive problems such as dementia and also Alzheimer's. [10] The phenolic substances existing in the fruit eases these neurological concerns.

Menstrual Cramps

Women have actually likewise reported its effects on decreasing menstruation cramps. Bilberry remove is likewise efficient in curing ulcers as well as hindering fibrocystic bust disease.

Skin Treatment

Bilberry supports and strengthens the collagen structures, stalls bacterial development and assists in cleansing of the body. It is additionally advised by physicians prior to surgeries in order to minimize the connected bleeding later.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it a beneficial multipurpose remedy. The abundant resource of anthocyanosides works water-soluble chemicals that have radical scavenging high qualities. They seek for oxygen-free radicals created during basal metabolism and also counteract their results. This protective action stops the occurrence of many problems caused as a consequence of oxidative anxiety.

Maintains Liver Health

Researchers have actually shown that the inhibitory as well as extreme scavenging task of bilberry extracts improves the level of helpful glutathione as well as vitamin C in the body as well as decreases the concentration of nitric oxide in the liver cells.

Protects Against Kidney Failing

One more antioxidant result of bilberry is its protection against kidney damage. Scientific research has actually shown that its extracts assist in normalizing several important factors consisting of degrees of creatinine, product, blood, urea, nitrogen, as well as nitric oxide. [11] It likewise assists to secrete hefty steels from the body resulting in much better detoxification.

Health and wellness advantages of bilberry - infographic

Cardioprotective Results

The heart-protective impact is attributed to the potential of anthocyanins present in bilberry, which assists in controling the LDL (poor) as well as HDL (good) cholesterol degrees in the body. [12] One more research has actually recommended that it likewise helps in protecting against multiple heart diseases such as atherosclerosis. [13]

Antimicrobial Effects

Bilberry consists of phenolic components which have actually likewise been located to apply antimicrobial activity. [3] This repressive action of the berry antagonizes numerous human virus including salmonella, H.pylori, Bacillus, Clostridium and also Staphylococcus aureus, and also avoids the advancement of involved conditions. Current scientific searchings for likewise suggest the capacity of its remove in combating antibiotic-resistant organisms.

Uses of Bilberry

Bilberry can be consumed in fresh, dried, powdered, removed, or in liquid form. When buying the extract, ensure that you purchase the ones that have 25% anthocyanin in it for good health and wellness results. There are different ways to serve the fruit such as:

Include bilberry fruit or the fallen leaves to warm water as well as serve on your own a healthy tea!

Utilize the berry as a filling for pies and also tarts.

Prepare its jams and also enjoy it with bread.

You can likewise drink some revitalizing bilberry juice. The juice is additionally used as a base for liqueur and as a flavor for sorbets and also various other treats.

If you slouch to do any one of the above, just gobble it up in its raw form! It works as a yummy snack also.

Side Effects

Although bilberry is considered risk-free for intake, there are a few exceptions [14] that demand to be considered:

[unsub13x-blog]

Multi nutrient-rich bilberry is beneficial in preserving skin health and wellness, cardio health and fitness, cognitive strength, healthy and disease-free eyes, unblocked blood flow as well as much better functioning of the overall body.

 For several decades, the anticancer potential, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory residential properties of bilberry have actually been prized for their efficiency in a series of problems including diarrhea, diabetes mellitus, liver and kidney damages.

What is Bilberry?

Bilberry is a tiny edible dark blueberry of a low-growing shrub in the genus Vaccinium. Bilberry is scientifically described as Vaccinium myrtillus. It is a close relative of blueberry, blaeberry, huckleberry, whortleberry, and cranberry. [1] These are delicious berries are native to Northern Europe and also have actually been valued for their restorative effectiveness in the conventional system of European medication for many centuries.

Bilberry is a spreading, low-growing, deciduous shrub with slender branches having tiny pinkish blooms and also brilliant green, oblong as well as sharp leaves. [2] The plant yields dark purple berries harvested during summer time and can be utilized fresh or in dried form. Today, they are grown in Northern Asia, Europe, as well as North America and are becoming fairly prominent as a delicious active ingredient in preserves, pies, as well as jams along with for their capability to deal with a range of health conditions.

Nutritional Details

Much like its cousins, huckleberry, and blueberry, bilberry is the richest natural resources of anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that supplies it the dark blue shade. [3] Along with anthocyanin, it additionally contains other phenolic elements such as quercetin, tannins, pectin, as well as catechins. It likewise consists of alkaloids, carbonic acids, and also a range of vital nutrients including vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, and also K. The mineral treasure existing in it chromium, manganese, zinc, as well as iron. [4]

Wellness Advantages of Bilberry

Below are the major manner ins which bilberries can make you healthy and balanced. Take a look at them.

Improves Vision

Bilberry serves for the maintenance of eye health and wellness. [1] Scientific research studies have additionally promoted the efficiency of bilberry remove in stopping age-related eye conditions along with other eye conditions such as cataract and also night-blindness. [3] Leutin present in the eye, when combined with the compounds present in bilberry, assists improve vision. [3] An additional research study performed on bilberry has also recommended that its beneficial enzyme-stimulating task secures the eyes from endotoxin-induced uveitis. [5] Its removes boost the production of rhodopsin pigment which supports the eye to adapt to light adjustments. [2]

Deals with Looseness of the bowels

Bilberry has actually been utilized to deal with stomach conditions such as looseness of the bowels, indigestion, as well as nausea. [6] Its anti-inflammatory as well as astringent residential properties help to tighten up tissues and also decrease the symptoms of diarrhea.

A white dish of fresh bilberries with fallen leaves on a wooden table

Anti-inflammatory Action

Due to the astringent action of tannins and pectin present in bilberry, it puts in a therapeutic effect on tummy inflammations. It additionally recovers swelling caused by the mucous membrane layers of the throat as well as mouth when applied topically. Anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties of this fruit likewise help in healing problems like apoplexy and angina.

Blood Health and wellness

Research studies have actually confirmed the favorable results of bilberry on blood pressure and vascular health leading to the inhibition of platelet gathering as well as smooth muscle contraction. It helps to enhance blood vessels, stimulates circulation as well as stops problems like varicose blood vessels and also hemorrhoids.

Chronic Venous Lack

Persistent venous insufficiency is a problem in which the valves in leg veins that lug blood to the heart gets harmed. [7] This causes itching, swelling, and pain in the leg. It often also leads to skin abscess. The anthocyanosides existing in bilberry assistance to enhance the capillary and lower the symptoms.

Controls Diabetic issues

The effectiveness of bilberry for protecting against and curing diabetes mellitus has actually been valued considering that very early times and also has also been supported by recent scientific searchings for. It aids in regulating the blood sugar level degrees in the body, due to the abundant focus of anthocyanins. Researches recommend its dietary remove aids in boosting the problem of hyperglycemia and insulin sensitivity in individuals struggling with type-2 diabetic issues. [8]

May Assist Prevent Cancer Cells

A team of scientists from the College of California Santa Barbara led by Nguyen V et al. [9] located that bilberry essences had an antiproliferative impact on human bust cancer cells. They avoid the expansion of deadly cells and induce apoptosis. A comparative study performed on various berries has actually rendered bilberry to be one of the most potent in restraint of malignant cells. [3] It likewise helps to avoid the negative effects of radiation treatment.

Neuroprotective Results

Bilberry can lower the danger of cognitive concerns such as mental deterioration and Alzheimer's. [10] The phenolic substances present in the fruit minimizes these neurological problems.

Menstrual Pains

Females have actually additionally reported its effects on lowering menstrual cramps. Bilberry extract is additionally effective in healing abscess and preventing fibrocystic breast disease.

Skin Treatment

Bilberry supports and also strengthens the collagen structures, stalls bacterial development and helps in detoxing of the body. It is additionally advised by doctors before surgical procedures in order to reduce the linked blood loss later.

Antioxidant Power

The antioxidant power of bilberry makes it a beneficial multipurpose remedy. The rich source of anthocyanosides serves water-soluble chemicals that possess radical scavenging high qualities. They choose for oxygen-free radicals created during basal metabolism and neutralize their effects. This protective activity stops the event of several issues triggered therefore of oxidative anxiety.

Preserves Liver Health And Wellness

Scientists have shown that the repressive and also extreme scavenging task of bilberry essences boosts the degree of valuable glutathione and vitamin C in the body and minimizes the concentration of nitric oxide in the liver cells.

Stops Kidney Failing

An additional antioxidant result of bilberry is its defense versus kidney damage. Scientific study has actually revealed that its essences help in normalizing numerous essential factors including levels of creatinine, product, blood, urea, nitrogen, and nitric oxide. [11] It additionally assists to secrete hefty metals from the body resulting in much better cleansing.

Wellness benefits of bilberry - infographic

Cardioprotective Effects

The heart-protective impact is credited to the potential of anthocyanins present in bilberry, which helps in managing the LDL (poor) and also HDL (good) cholesterol degrees in the body. [12] One more research study has actually recommended that it likewise helps in stopping several heart diseases such as atherosclerosis. [13]

Antimicrobial Impacts

Bilberry consists of phenolic elements which have also been located to put in antimicrobial task. [3] This inhibitory action of the berry antagonizes different human virus consisting of salmonella, H.pylori, Bacillus, Clostridium as well as Staphylococcus aureus, and protects against the development of affiliated conditions. Recent scientific findings also suggest the possibility of its essence in combating antibiotic-resistant microorganisms.

Uses of Bilberry

Bilberry can be consumed in fresh, dried, powdered, drawn out, or in fluid form. When acquiring the extract, make sure that you get the ones that have 25% anthocyanin in it permanently wellness results. There are various means to serve the fruit such as:

Add bilberry fruit or the fallen leaves to hot water and also offer on your own a healthy tea!

Use the berry as a filling up for pies and tarts.

Prepare its jams as well as relish it with bread.

You can likewise consume alcohol some revitalizing bilberry juice. The juice is likewise used as a base for liqueur and as a flavoring for sorbets and also other treats.

If you are lazy to do any one of the above, just swallow it up in its raw type! It acts as a tasty snack too.

Negative effects

Although bilberry is thought about risk-free for intake, there are a few exceptions [14] that need to be considered:

[porchwood]

THG Reread: Interesting Tidbits from Ch 1

Disclaimer: I’ve never taken part in any official THG reread/discussion and I essentially read the book in isolation, so anything I say in these posts may well have been discussed and dismissed years ago.

When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. My fingers stretch out, seeking Prim’s warmth but finding only the rough canvas cover of the mattress. She must have had bad dreams and crawled in with our mother.

I find it interesting that Prim leaves Katniss to find comfort with their mother, especially since Katniss seems to see herself as Prim’s sole protector and provider. Are Prim and Mrs. Everdeen closer than Katniss realizes (having such an abrasive relationship with her mother as she does) or is it simply that Mom will always be Mom and in a moment of terror most children prefer the embrace of their mother over a sibling?

Also: sleeping directly on a rough canvas-covered mattress? Are bed sheets are that great a luxury in the Seam? :(

I swing my legs off the bed and slide into my hunting boots. Supple leather that has molded to my feet. I pull on trousers…

So she gets out of bed and puts on her boots, then her trousers... So...girl’s a firefighter, right? :D

(Sorry for the crummy pics. Apparently the Tumblr presence of the Emergency! fandom is microscopic at best - I guess that happens with a ‘70s show :P - so these are screenshots I made from the S1 DVD, because yes, I’m that big of an Emergency! fangirl and you can never have too much Johnny Gage!)

It gives “girl on fire” a whole new meaning!! ;D

All merriment aside, we know that fire was a constant danger in the Seam, with its “old wooden homes embedded with coal dust,” so it’s entirely possible that residents slept with trousers and boots in readiness at the bedside, to be stepped into at a moment’s notice for a rapid escape if needed.

I…tuck my long dark braid up into a cap…

This has been discussed in previous rereads so it really isn’t news, but I’d love to see more Katniss-in-a-cap popping up in fics and fanart. THG opens in summertime and she’s still wearing the cap, so it was definitely a staple of her wardrobe! (And it brings us a little closer to the girl-disguised-as-a-boy trope, which is one of my all-time faves! :D)

(Behold this adorable @ghtlovesthg rendering!)

Our part of District 12, nicknamed the Seam, is usually crawling with coal miners heading out to the morning shift at this hour…

Somehow I had always (erroneously) assumed that there was just one twelve-hour shift that all the miners worked (ex. 6am-6pm). Since artificial light would be required inside the mines anyway, I suppose they could work around the clock with no regard to the sun and stars. Folks who live in/near coal mining communities: do they generally operate 24 hours a day or is there some arbitrary cut-off point in the evening? (I’m sorry I’m so ignorant about this!)

Most of the Peacekeepers turn a blind eye to the few of us who hunt…

Has anyone else figured out who these mysterious additional hunters are??

I watch as Gale pulls out his knife and slices the bread. He could be my brother. Straight black hair, olive skin, we even have the same gray eyes. But we’re not related, at least not closely.

First off: it truly befuddles me that Katniss’s hair color is stated on page 8 of THG (though, interestingly, never explicitly afterward) and yet it’s unusual - maybe even rare - to find fanart or even fics that depict her with black hair. Why is that? I was in love with her long black hair from moment one (truly black hair is unique, at least in my part of the world, and so striking to boot) so I probably belabor it a bit in my own writing, but it’s such an exquisite feature, why would you not?

Secondly: “He could be my brother.” That feels significant, and not merely in the “we look alike” sense. I’ve been working on a post about how Gale came into Katniss’s life in a very significant fashion after her beloved father’s death and she was drawn to him because of certain (I would venture to say striking) commonalities, but as I was wrapping it up last night (and sharing various details with my favorite sounding-board @ghtlovesthg), I realized there was a whole - vitally important - flipside to my theory that absolutely cannot be overlooked. So I might not get that finished till we’re on CF or even MJ. (No spoilers just in case someone pips me at the post - pun inadvertent ;) - but I think it’s pretty cool!)

And thirdly, because I can’t resist: I headcanon that Gale and Katniss are cousins through their great-great-grandfather (Galen Greenbrier, if anyone cares :D), who had two daughters (Aisling and Elspeth), who each had a daughter (Wren and Ashpet), who had Hazelle and Jack (Mr. Everdeen), who begat Gale and Katniss, respectively. Ergo: related but “not closely,” per canon. :)

With both of us hunting daily…

I’d always thought Gale and Katniss only hunted a few times a week, with Sundays being their largest haul/best trading day. (“Usually we devote all of Sunday to stocking up for the week.”) I know Twelve is an unusually permissive district at this point in time, but if two Seam kids were sneaking back and forth under the fence every single day and (forgive me) flaunting the fact by selling game in town (and when did they do this? before school, after, both?), surely, inevitably, the Peacekeepers would have been obliged to do something about it. Or were there some trips where Gale and Katniss only brought back enough for their own families, making their illegal activities not quite so blatant?

Cross-referencing with Catching Fire, I find Katniss saying, “Back when we were in school, we had time in the afternoons to check the lines and hunt and gather and still get back to town to trade” - exactly what time did they get out of school and how late were they doing these trades (not to mention, when did anyone get homework done)?? - but she also says it’s “an hour-and-a-half trek” just to check the snare line. I guess it isn’t impossible, but it seems a much more extensive (and time-consuming!) arrangement than I would have thought they could get by with, even in Twelve.

We easily trade six of the fish for good bread…

Like the rest of you, I’m trying to figure out who’s selling this “good bread” at the Hob. For some odd reason, at one point I thought maybe the bakery’s day-olds were sold there, à la:

They could potentially sell said day-olds at less of a discount than merchant clientele would demand but the reduced prices would be low enough for some Seam clientele to afford, and of course, even day-old bakery bread would be superior to homemade tessera bread (and therefore: “good bread”). 

I’m not sure where I got the “bakery outlet” idea (I think it was all the early canonverse fics where Katniss ran into Peeta in the Hob, so I figured he was running a day-olds stall or something) but having been away from it for awhile, I actually kind of like it! :)

You become eligible for the reaping the day you turn twelve.

I’m going to wax exceedingly about reaping ages in another post, but for the moment: I presume this rule means that anyone who turns twelve between reaping days becomes eligible for the subsequent reaping, correct? So if we arbitrarily set the reaping at, say, June 1, someone whose birthday is on June 2 wouldn’t be eligible till the following year. (Which would be especially terrible for your 18-yr-old reaping: being a day away from 19 and freedom, of a sort, but still having to go through one last reaping.) Now I think of it, it’s possible Career districts took advantage of this. Highly invested parents in a Career district could have planned their pregnancies with the intent of a late summer birth (i.e., a month or two after reaping day) so the resulting children would have the advantage of extra months up on other tributes in their same age group.   

On the flipside of this: Prim, whose birthday is in late May, would be an especially young tribute, since she’s only just turned twelve (think school kids with summer birthdays who don’t turn the “right age” for their grade till 1-3 months after school is out), and similarly Katniss, whose birthday is May 8, would be on the young side of the group of sixteens. 

“Pretty dress,” says Gale.

Madge shoots him a look, trying to see if it’s a genuine compliment or if he’s just being ironic. It is a pretty dress, but she would never be wearing it ordinarily. She presses her lips together and then smiles. “Well, if I end up going to the Capitol, I want to look nice, don’t I?”

Now it’s Gale’s turn to be confused. Does she mean it? Or is she messing with him? I’m guessing the second.

Gaaah, so much going on here! I can’t decide if I want to make a proper Gadge post, so in the meantime, here’s some food for thought:

1) Why does Gale remark on her dress? Really - give me suggestions, because I’ve been turning it over in my head. If it’s meant to be ironic and she gives him sarcasm in reply (as seems to be the quintessential Gadge dynamic :D), it’s odd that he would be confused and not have a volley/riposte/etc of his own on deck. I mean, Katniss doesn’t seem to know (or at least, doesn’t clarify in her narration) whether or not it’s a compliment -

2) Which is interesting, because she guesses straightaway that Madge is “messing with him” in reply. ;)

3) Gale gives Madge what outwardly seems like a compliment and this is what ensues. One might surmise they’ve done this before... :D I mean, if there was no precedent, Madge would’ve just said “thank you” and exchanged money for berries. Since the mayor is such a valuable customer (being one of very few who can afford their asking price for strawberries), it’s interesting that Gale would antagonize Madge and risk losing the strawberry trade - not to mention bringing up the subject of tesserae at the mayor’s back door on reaping day! Does he take similar potshots at other merchants or is it just Madge? Is he irked (even threatened) by Katniss’s friendship with Madge? (I love that Katniss immediately defends Madge in the face of Gale’s tesserae rant. ♡) Does he feel like he can sound off at her (with impunity) because she’s Katniss’s friend? Or is he secretly crazy about her and resigned to the fact that he’ll never get her but the reminders of the impassable gap between them still incense him? Sorry, my hand slipped there for a sec. ;) 

Gale knows his anger at Madge is misdirected.

I didn’t recall this line from previous reading and it just makes me happy. :)

To my surprise, my mother has laid out one of her own lovely dresses for me. A soft blue thing with matching shoes. [...]  For a while I was so angry, I wouldn’t allow her to do anything for me. And this is something special. Her clothes from her past are very precious to her.

I’d never caught the “matching shoes” bit before! Do you suppose Katniss means dyed [blue] to match/covered with matching fabric (so that’s what they do at the shoe shop!) or simply that they go well with the dress? And if she means that the shoes literally match the dress: is this a particularly special dress (hence particularly special shoes) or is it customary for merchant girls to order shoes to match their dresses?

And further: why this year? It doesn’t sound like Mrs. Everdeen has offered one of her apothecary-era dresses before, which could have been due to Katniss’s repeated rebuffs, but still: why offer one of those very precious dresses this year? Did she have a feeling about this reaping? Or is she starting to see Katniss as a young woman, not just an angry, resourceful child? (Coupled with the fact that she subsequently puts Katniss’s hair up, the latter makes a lot of sense.) 

On a sidenote: Has anyone written meta on the significance/usage of braids in Twelve? (Notwithstanding WTM: Ch 13 and all that Mellark bridal braids/braid coils/engagement hairpin business.) Ex. Does a girl "graduate” from pigtails to a single braid around puberty and then to a crown braid as a young woman/wife, or does she/her mother simply style it however she feels on any given day? I’m just now realizing that I consistently picture reaping day!Prim in pigtails because of the film, but it doesn’t state in the text how her hair is styled, so it might be in a single braid or held back at the temples with a clip or even worn loose.

The square’s surrounded by shops, and on public market days, especially if there’s good weather, it has a holiday feel to it.

I’m really curious about “public market days,” since the Hob seems to be Twelve’s primary market - or at least, has become so in fanon - but Katniss makes a clear distinction between them (“Make only polite small talk in the public market. Discuss little more than trades at the Hob, which is the black market where I make most of my money”). Is this public market like a farmer’s market or a craft fair - or a bit of both? Is it simply the “merchant version” of the Hob? How often are they held? Who gets to sell at this market, and what sort of wares are we talking about? (Is it just merchants bringing their product outside, like a sidewalk sale?) Does the Capitol/Justice Building collect a fee from everyone wanting a stall/booth/table?

Edit: While looking up details for a different post, I found this passage:

Gale and I went to the market on the square so that I could buy dress materials [for Prim].

So apparently they sold fabric and notions in the public market? (Not at, say, a mercantile/general store?) I’m wholly confused now!

[ddagent]

Sneak Peek Sunday

Suggested by the amazing @sententiousandbellicose, I present Sneak Peek Sunday. Every week I shall post a snippet from one of my WIPs, whether it’s yet to be finished or just waiting to be edited.

This is from a story called The Retreat. Fairly self explanatory: Bernie and Serena attend a team building retreat with the rest of AAU and are actually denied the opportunity to share a bed. Read the story so far, here:

Serena didn’t know why Hanssen thought that team building was necessary for AAU. They had been voted ‘Best Ward’ three years in a row, and had the lowest staff turnover in the hospital. After being presented with the brochure, Serena had tried to argue that AAU regularly held team building sessions in Albie’s after work. But Hanssen hadn’t bought it. So rather than getting in another round, AAU was packed off to a team building weekend in Kent. Trust falls, lengthy presentations, kayaking…the only benefit to the entire weekend was the blonde sitting beside her.

 Serena slipped one hand from the steering wheel to rest on Bernie’s knee, giving it a squeeze as she made the last turn of their journey. She was gifted by the sight of her co-lead’s fine pink blush in the side mirror. “Nearly there.”

 “Good, I’m knackered. Looking forward to a good kip.” Bernie leant back against the car seat, flipping through the brochure once more. “You know, there’s actually quite a few nice activities going on. Swimming, capture the flag. Even a quiz. Pity Jason couldn’t come with us.”

 “What about a wine tasting?”

 Bernie shook her head; blonde curls tumbling across the white oxford she wore. “Sorry, Serena. Unit Builders is actually a dry retreat. Not a drop in the place.”

 She would later blame her sharp brakes on the erratic driving of the car in front. But in reality it was the thought of a weekend away listening to overenthusiastic team builders without a single glass of Shiraz. “Well that’s just…fabulous.”

 “I’m sure you can survive seventy-two hours without a glass of wine, Serena Campbell.” Bernie smirked as she tossed the brochure on the back seat (and sadly not where it belonged – out the window). “Listen, this isn’t exactly my ideal weekend either. But surely there is something you’re looking forward to.”

 “Not that I can think of.” Bernie’s creeping hand up her thigh ruined the petulant frown she was cultivating. “Fine. I am looking forward to spending some time together just the two of us. We’ve been so busy lately, we’ve barely had a chance to talk about, you know-“

 “Us.”

 Serena nodded, smiling. “Yes, us. It’s overdue.”

 Six months overdue. The kiss they shared after Fletch’s stabbing had been a moment of weakness. Common sense giving way to attraction and pleasure. They’d danced around each other for weeks after that; neither one wanting to get too close lest they succumb. Bernie’s sabbatical to Kiev gave them both the time and space to repair their friendship. Both had expected things to return to normal once she returned. Neither had expected the soft kiss Serena had given her upon her return; nor the aching hug where Bernie had buried her head in the juncture of Serena’s neck. They didn’t talk, after. No awkward conversation over a glass of wine. They just danced to a different tune. Longer looks, firmer touches. Drunken snogs in the back of Bernie’s car. Both of them were just waiting for the other to be ready.

 Serena was ready. And she was tired of waiting

 Staring at Bernie, Serena realised this was a good a time as any to bring it up. “Just so you’re aware, Henrik was only able to get us three rooms at the retreat.”

 Bernie’s throat bobbed. “Really?”

 “Yes. Now, Fletch and Raf will of course have one room.”

 “Of course.”

 “And Morven’s a young woman; she doesn’t want to share with two old biddies.”

 Serena could see Bernie’s smirk in the corner of her eye. “Absolutely. So, I guess, that means we’ll have to share a room.”

 “A bed.” She risked taking her eyes off the road to meet Bernie’s gaze. “It’s a double bed, rather than two twins. But I think we’re grown up enough to share, don’t you?”

 Bernie’s moan was barely audible over the sound of Radio Four. But it stirred something inside Serena. She felt her stomach flutter at the thought of them sharing pillows, duvets; legs and arms tangled together. Out of blouses and scrubs and sensible hospital shoes. Into a silk nightgown Serena had packed specially for the trip. She wanted to see Bernie’s face when she left the bathroom. Wanted to feel Bernie’s hands on her as she slipped a strap over her shoulder; replacing it with her mouth. This trip could have been a disaster. But the prospect of waking up beside the woman she had fallen in love with was her only salvation.

 “So,” Bernie started. “Are we there yet?”

 Serena chuckled, reaching over to squeeze Bernie’s thigh. “Nearly there, darling, nearly there.”

 The Unit Builders retreat soon came into view. A two storey building with ensuite rooms and a lake out back. Teams from offices, schools, and other hospitals were in the car park; all dragging out cases and about ninety percent looking like they wanted to be in the pub a half mile back. Serena parked the car, beaming as Bernie came around the other side and opened her door. She resisted the urge to take Bernie’s hand (‘I’m not that feeble’), and softly chastised her for taking her bag (‘Think of your back, Bernie!’). She did, however, allow a brief spot of hand holding before they caught sight of Fletch and Raf.

 “There’s trouble.”

 “Afternoon Ms Campbell, Major.” Fletch gave a mock salute before handing them both keys. “We had to drop the kids off at Sacha and Essie’s early, so we’ve been here ages. Pub down the road does not serve Shiraz, however it does serve a nice pint of bitter. We’ve also checked everyone in. We’re in 202. Bernie you’re in 204. Ms Campbell you’re in 206 with Morven.”

 Bernie cleared her throat. “It’s alright; I don’t mind sharing with Serena.”

 “Actually, Bernie, we were thinking bout your back. These beds can be notoriously hard at the best of times; figured you might want a room to yourself,” Raf explained.

 “You make me sound like some sort of invalid!” Bernie huffed. “You know I intend to be team leader at Capture the Flag tomorrow, don’t you?”

 “We know! But you’ll be in no fit state if your back is playing up.” Raf and Fletch shared a grin. “C’mon, Major, we take care of each other on AAU. Let us take care of you for once.”

 There was no arguing with that. Serena could see the look in her eye that usually meant she was reminiscing about camouflage and the desert. Her team were showing excellent teamwork skills. She should be thrilled about that. What she wasn’t thrilled about was having to share a bed with Morven when she could easily be lying beside Bernie. Still, maybe this meant that she would enjoy the retreat after all; sans Shiraz and Wolfe. Maybe.

 Maybe not.

 Serena didn’t know what she had done to Henrik Hanssen but she must have murdered his entire family in a previous life. How else could she account for Gary and Becky, their ‘Dream Team’ architects? Or their first exercise leading her to hug Bernie for a full sixty seconds with no pay off later in the evening? To say nothing of ‘Aspiration Station’ where ‘to make passionate love to my co-lead’ was not an acceptable workplace goal. By the time Gary and Becky sent them off to bed, Serena wanted to set fire to the whole damn place.

 “You know, Ms Campbell, I thought you’d be right in your element,” Morven said through a mouthful of toothpaste. “Team building; management skills. Your bread and butter!”

 Serena rolled her eyes. “I enjoy it when it’s not a complete waste of time and money. We are a perfectly functioning team. This whole weekend is a misuse of NHS resources.”

 She knew her tone was clipped; her words harsh. But she should be watching Bernie’s arse in skimpy shorts whilst she brushed her teeth free of cigarette smoke so they could kiss and kiss and kiss. She should be witness to Bernie rendered temporarily speechless by the nightgown she’d brought for sex rather than sleeping. They should be enjoying exploratory touches of hands and mouths. Serena should not have the duvet pulled up to her chin to gain some professional distance between her and her F2.

 At least Morven seemed to be having a good time. She was grinning as she left the bathroom. “Gosh this is just like the school trips I used to go on as a kid. Late night feasts and ghost stories. I’ve got some Pringles in my bag if you want some.”

 “I’m fine, thank you Doctor Digby,” Serena said; barely waiting until Morven had got under the covers before turning off the lights. “Sleep well.”

 “Night, Ms Campbell.”

 Morven turned on her side; the duvet turning with her. Serena counted nine lots of sixty before Morven’s breathing slowed, accompanied by a series of soft snores filling the room. Lucky girl. Serena could not even entertain the thought of sleep. So consumed was she by the thought of next door, of what she was doing. Was Bernie as frustrated as she was? At least she had a room to herself to relieve any tension.

 She supposed she could join her. Morven was fast asleep and the football talk from next door had quietened. She could slip out, knock on Bernie’s door. Spend the night and be back before Morven’s alarm went off. It was the perfect plan. Serena eased herself out from underneath the duvet; padding across the room. She gritted her teeth as she opened the door, body preparing to flinch at any noise. Serena sighed with relief when it opened silently and she quickly bounded into the hall. Three paces to her left and she was outside Bernie’s room. She rapped three times; praying the rest of the team didn’t hear it.

 It took all of fifteen seconds for Bernie to open the door. Another two to pull Serena across the threshold. “I’d hoped you’d come.”

 “Nothing would have stopped me.”

 Serena trailed her hands down Bernie’s arms; shivering underneath a threadbare RAMC t-shirt. Serena looked down at the greying boxers she wore; the lean legs that not even skinny jeans could do justice to. Her hair was tussled from her pillow and there were lines on her face. Serena followed them with her fingers; pressed her lips to Bernie’s in a flurry of kisses.

 They moved away from the door.  

[tabletoptrinketsbyjj]

Minor Magic Items, 1: Also known as not-quite-wondrous items, common magic items, utility and niche magical equipment, underpowered relics or depowered artifacts, these objects are essentially cantrips and weak magic spells in physical form. Useful for more than just combat, these items create light, entertain, clean, play music, flavor food, heat, cool, warn, inform and generally raise the quality of life for their bearers. They can act as unique world building items, magic shop filler objects, barter and trade goods as well as ingredients to create or upgrade stronger magic items or enchantments.

Loaf of the Lazy: An inflatable metal packet etched with the symbol of a loaf of bread that occasionally expands and deflates as if breathing. If the packet is opened and filled with a handful of flour a cup of water and a pinch of yeast and placed in the sun for an hour, the packet will expand and can be opened to reveal a fully cooked loaf of bread. The packet can be used in this way once per day.

Deadeye: A black eyepatch bearing the image of a grinning silver skull. When worn the bearer’s uncovered eye takes on a milky white appearance as if it was blind. The bearer suffers disadvantage on any perception checks based on vision but gains advantage on any vision checks to notice, spot or recognize undead creatures, or signs of their passage.

A black headband that creates a single illusionary face of a human male over the bearer’s face. The illusion shifts to match the bearer’s expressions and movements but it is not infallible and a very perceptive creature can see through it.

A white headband that creates a single illusionary face of a human female over the bearer’s face. The illusion shifts to match the bearer’s expressions and movements but it is not infallible and a very perceptive creature can see through it.

A fist sized lump of purple crystal. When the bearer is seriously injured and is near death, dying or bleeding out, they automatically stabilize and the crystal shatters becoming useless. When they awake they recall lingering near death and a figure in purple robes beckoning them back to the land of the living. —Note: The bearer automatically stabilizes meaning that they do not continue to lose hit points, make death saving throws or whatever other mechanic your game uses. Instead they remain unconscious but alive, until they are woken up or healed.  

A green belt buckle in the shape of a fig leaf that makes the bearer’s ears feel warm and tingly when a creature within 50 feet is talking about them.

A hairpin made of jade shaped like a dragonfly that allows the bearer the ability to see through smoke, fog and mist within five feet.

A hollowed out drinking horn that magically fills with one liter of pure spring water at dawn each day.

A large bear tooth with a hole bored through it, strung on a hemp line. A creature looking through the hole at a cave will know whether there are predators animals already occupying it.

Vulcan’s Unending Heat: A lava stone with faint glowing red lines as if it never truly cooled. It has been carved into the size and shape of a tongue of flame and gives off unending heat equivalent to a candle. It will not set objects on fire directly or ignite flammable objects but can boil small amounts of water.

 ---Keep reading for 90 more trinkets.

---Note: The previous 10 items are repeated for easier rolling on a d100.

Loaf of the Lazy: An inflatable metal packet etched with the symbol of a loaf of bread that occasionally expands and deflates as if breathing. If the packet is opened and filled with a handful of flour a cup of water and a pinch of yeast and placed in the sun for an hour, the packet will expand and can be opened to reveal a fully cooked loaf of bread. The packet can be used in this way once per day.

Deadeye: A black eyepatch bearing the image of a grinning silver skull. When worn the bearer’s uncovered eye takes on a milky white appearance as if it was blind. The bearer suffers disadvantage on any perception checks based on vision but gains advantage on any vision checks to notice, spot or recognize undead creatures, or signs of their passage.

A black headband that creates a single illusionary face of a human male over the bearer’s face. The illusion shifts to match the bearer’s expressions and movements but it is not infallible and a very perceptive creature can see through it.

A white headband that creates a single illusionary face of a human female over the bearer’s face. The illusion shifts to match the bearer’s expressions and movements but it is not infallible and a very perceptive creature can see through it.

A fist sized lump of purple crystal. When the bearer is seriously injured and is near death, dying or bleeding out, they automatically stabilize and the crystal shatters becoming useless. When they awake they recall lingering near death and a figure in purple robes beckoning them back to the land of the living. —Note: The bearer automatically stabilizes meaning that they do not continue to lose hit points, make death saving throws or whatever other mechanic your game uses. Instead they remain unconscious but alive, until they are woken up or healed.  

A green belt buckle in the shape of a fig leaf that makes the bearer’s ears feel warm and tingly when a creature within 50 feet is talking about them.

A hairpin made of jade shaped like a dragonfly that allows the bearer the ability to see through smoke, fog and mist within five feet.

A hollowed out drinking horn that magically fills with one liter of pure spring water at dawn each day.

A large bear tooth with a hole bored through it, strung on a hemp line. A creature looking through the hole at a cave will know whether there are predators animals already occupying it.

Vulcan’s Unending Heat: A lava stone with faint glowing red lines as if it never truly cooled. It has been carved into the size and shape of a tongue of flame and gives off unending heat equivalent to a candle. It will not set objects on fire directly or ignite flammable objects but can boil small amounts of water.

A miniature platinum lightning bolt on a silver chain that vibrates and shocks its bearer with static electricity when there will be a storm in the next 24 hours.

A palm sized agate disk which, when squeezed generates a translucent solid bluish chair that disappears after one hour. Usable once per hour.

A palm sized agate disk which, when squeezed generates a translucent solid bluish table suitable for four people that disappears after one hour. Usable once per hour.

A Randomly Colored wooden bracelet that can summon or store a single comfortable wooden chair when activated. The chair is stored in an extra dimensional space when not in use.

A round stone with a hole in the middle of it strung on a silk cord. Anyone looking through the stone perceives a red haze about anyone who has been poisoned.

A sealed glass vial containing a strange purple dust that can be sprinkled on tiny objects weighing no more than five pounds, causing them to hover five feet off the ground for one minute. There is enough powder to affect 100 pounds of material.

A fist sized globe of glass that, when looked through renders snow within 50 feet transparent for the viewer.

A small leather pouch of pebbles that rattles audibly whenever there is an avalanche, earthquake, mudslide or other significant geological movement that will occur in the next 24 hours.

A small Randomly Coloured handkerchief that is capable of absorbing and holding four pints of fluid, it can be wrung out at any time to release the fluid.

Orb of the Night Watchman: A hollow metallic orb the size of a large marble that’s etched with the symbol of an open eye. The orb begins to vibrate when tapped and stops when tapped again. While vibrating it prevents creatures within five feet from falling asleep naturally. Creatures kept awake by the orb gain no special benefits from not sleeping and suffer the usual penalties should they stay awake for long periods of time.

Chasing Chair: A sturdy animated oaken chair that knows two commands: “Stay still” and “Follow me”, which is carries out to the best of its ability. It will flee from forces or situations that are actively damaging it but will not defend itself or attack in any way.

A tarnished and blackened iron ladle that instantly purifies up five liters of water scooped up in it per day, but gives the water a harsh metallic taste that can’t be masked by other flavors. The water treated by the ladle is considered sterilized as if it had been brought to an active boil for five minutes.

Hair of the Dog: A tarnished dented hip flask that fills with fair quality whiskey every morning at 6am. The alcohol completely disappears at 12pm every day if not consumed. Etched into the flask is the phrase “Hair of the dog”.

A child’s toy wooden sailing boat. When placed in water, its small cloth sails unfurl if the water is safe to drink.

An antique wooden box engraved with a forest scene. Once per day, it fills itself with a random assortment of one dozen chocolate treats of exquisite quality.

Lokum Chest: An antique wooden box with a painted picture of a lone lamp post in a winter forest scene. Once per day, it fills itself with a dozen small, fragrant cubes of edible jelly, heavily dusted with icing sugar. The jelly delights come in an assortment of random flavors including rosewater, orange flowers, other citrus fruit juices and berries.

An eyepatch crafted from cyclops hide. While worn, it grants the bearer the ability to see twice as far with the uncovered eye. However, the bearer loses all sense of depth perception and suffers disadvantage to hit on all ranged attacks.

Leech Dust: A sealed glass vial filled with a blue-grey powder. Scattering this dust over a wound will sterilize the area and cause any poison trapped in the body to rise to the surface and be expelled, after which the wound closes slightly. Applying the powder takes one round and is an equivalent action to attacking or casting a spell. The recipient gains advantage on all checks to resist poison effects (Including damage) and if he is currently under the effect of ongoing poison damage he may make another check against it (As if he was attempting to resist it for the first time) with advantage. The recipient is also healed a single hit point. The dust’s effects last for one minute and a creature cannot benefit from the dust more than once per hour. When found, the vial contains 5d4 doses of dust.

Lenses of the Pyromage: A pair of clear glass and red leather goggles that allow the bearer to see perfectly through steam, smoke and heat wave distortion within 15 feet.

Lion Gauntlet: An awkward fitting steel gauntlet bearing a well-crafted lion’s head at the end in place of fingers. When the jaw hinge is opened from the inside, the gauntlet looses a convincing lion’s roar that’s as loud as ten grown men yelling. The hand inside the gauntlet can hold object clumsily but cannot wield weapon or perform delicate actions such as picking locks. The mitten-like armored glove require two hands and two rounds to properly don and strap into place before it can be used. Undoing the straps and removing it with one hand can be completed in one round which takes an action equal to attacking or casting a spell.  

Lure of the Lifeless, Detector of the Dead: An old bone ring with small chew marks marring its surface. If placed on a finger, the bearer immediately feels the hair on the nape of their neck rise as a cold shiver runs down their spine. Whenever the ring is worn, all intelligent undead within 100 feet become aware of the presence and location of the bearer and feel mildly compelled to seek the bearer out. After being worn for one hour, the ring allows the bearer to sense the presence and location of all unintelligent undead within 50 feet.

Lush the Wineskin: A larger than average wineskin decorated with a humanlike face that has been imbued with a small measure of sentience. This barely intelligent item can speak common and has a vague sense of what’s happening its general vicinity. It usually responds to the name “Lush” and introduces itself as such, seemingly unaware of the insulting connotation. Any wine stored in the skin will not spoil and stays fresh indefinitely. Lush refuses to be filled with anything other than some sort of fruit wine (Preferably grape) and spits out any other liquid immediately. The mouth of his face is also the spout of the skin, making drinking directly from the spout an awkward experience. Lush has a long history of experience with wine and can be convinced to render judgment or give a professional opinion on any wine he is filled with. This information grants proficiency and advantage to any checks involving; assessing how the wine was made, produced, stored, the conditions of the fruits growth, dryness, aftertaste and what food the wine would be well paired with. In short, Lush can function as a sommelier or wine steward, however he will only perform these duties when he contains a sample of the wine he is assessing. Lush can hold one gallon of liquid inside him and consumes one ounce of that wine per day which then disappears. Perhaps due to a fault of the enchantment or a quirk of the object, Lush seems to be personally effected by the alcohol he is filled with. In short, Lush is roaring drunk when he is full, begging for wine when he is low, hung over when he is empty and will drop into hibernation if the dry spell lasts more than three days and only awakes when completely refilled.

Map of the Mind: A sturdy waterproof wooden map tube containing a rolled of sheet of blank canvas mapping. If a creature spends one minute concentrating on the canvas it becomes a topographical map of an area the user can picture. The map can display waterways and oceans, dungeons, underground tunnels etc. as well as above ground locations. The canvas is one and a half feet square and requires a full minute of uninterrupted concentration to make any changes to the map, therefore the larger the area displayed, the less detail is shown and the map cannot be zoomed in or out or panned around quickly to show more detail. The map only shows information that the creature remembers or knows and does not display anything that the user isn’t aware of or cannot recall. —Note: I recommend having the user make a Knowledge Geography, Memory, Intelligence or other similar check to determine the map’s quality. For example the user could use the map to display the layout of their house perfectly but might struggle to properly display a building they visited once a year ago. Based on the result of the check the DM can rule that the map is incomplete, not to scale, has incorrect door, wall or room locations or is otherwise inaccurate.

Map of the Trail: A sturdy waterproof wooden map tube containing a rolled of sheet of blank canvas mapping. If a creature spends one minute concentrating on the canvas it becomes a topographical map of the last five miles the creature has traveled while carrying the map on their person. The map displays only sights and areas that the bearer has seen (It does not display unexplored caves, secret entrances, hidden chambers, etc.) and shows the exact path of the bearer has taken in their last five miles.

Master’s Ring: A heavy steel ring prominently displaying a luscious blood ruby. The bearer of the ring never fully relaxes and experiences a faint but constant feeling the back of their mind that someone is out to get them. The ring causes a faint tingling sensation and glows dimly whenever one of the bearer’s employees, servants or hirelings is actively planning to betray him in some way. The ring must be worn for one week before the bearer benefits from the warning tingling and glow.

Midwife’s Intuition: A white gold disc on a silver chain. A creature holding the necklace begins to feel vaguely nauseous and occasionally feels a weak kick originating from their abdominal region. If the disc is held dangling in the air, it spins rapidly and glows when a pregnant humanoid is within 30 feet. It glows green for girl, orange for boy and yellow should there be more than one humanoid fetus within 30 feet.

Money Belt: An ornate belt pouch with a gold insignia displaying the holy symbol of the God of trade. The pouch is magically linked to the heavenly depository of the God of trade, whose celestial bankers will act as money changers for the bearer of the pouch. The bankers will only accept and provide legal denominations and will not take clipped, shaved, counterfeit or otherwise illegitimate currency. The pouch can be filled up with any amount of currency that the pouch will hold (Up to ten pounds or half a cubic foot of material.) and be used to change the denominations. To activate, the pouch must be tapped three times and the bearer must verbally announce how much change is required and in what denominations. After activation, the new money instantly replaces the old, if the volume and weight of the new currency would be contained by the pouch, otherwise nothing happens. The pouch charges 5% of the total money changed as a “convenience fee” each time it is used.

Nature’s Benevolent Bounty: A ring made of living wood etched with plant designs. While worn, the bearer is imparted with the knowledge if natural vegetation, fungi, animals and insects found in the wilderness is edible or not. The wielder must be within five feet of said material in order to determine if consuming it would harm him. The ring must be worn for at least 24 hours before the bearer can benefit from it.

Pillow of the Sleepless Fey: A comfortable pillow which appears to be designed for a child. Stitched into one side is the name Nodwick. If a creature sleeps upon this pillow during the night, small fairies will come to him and will extract 1d6 teeth while the user sleeps. The miniature fey will sprinkle generous amount of fairie dust in the user’s mouth which instantly heal the wounds and take away all pain associated with the process. Upon awakening, the user is filled with a supernatural vitality which causes him not to require any sleep or rest for a number of days equal to the number of teeth lost plus one. If the fey are prevented from removing the teeth for any reason, the user is not affected by the fairie dust and does not receive any benefits.  

Pouch of the Dead-Lights: A crudely stitched together sack made of a pale leather, containing necromantic fireflies that have been enchanted to breed endlessly, causing the pouch to be constantly filled with glowing undead insects in varying stages of development. They reproduce quickly enough that a handful of fireflies can be released each day. The insects will follow and swarm around the creature who released them, shedding light equivalent to a candle. The user is not able to actively control the fireflies and the necromantic magic fades after one hour causing them to die permanently. After it’s used, the bag must be provided a handful of raw material (snails, worms, meat, sugar, nectar, other insects, etc.) to replace the lost bio-matter, otherwise the fireflies will not be able to breed enough to be released again.

Ring of Lifesense: A large oval shaped ring made of an unknown orange stone that fits over two adjacent fingers when worn. While worn, the bearer can take a moment to concentrate on a creature within 15 feet of themselves and instantly determine if that creature is alive or dead.

Sailor’s Pet: A life sized driftwood carving of a seagull with pearls for eyes, and wings made of sparkling layered oyster shells. It smells faintly of a fresh sea breeze and emits the faint sound of lapping waves and crying gulls. If completely submerged in saltwater for one uninterrupted hour, it will become animate when exposed to air and woodenly mime typical bird movements and gain the ability to fly. It’s flight speed, strength, land movement and maneuverability are the same as a typical seagull and will follow the mental commands of the creature that removed it from the water. The carving returns to an inanimate state if it strays further than 100 feet from the creature that removed it from the water or until one hour passes. It is not intelligent and cannot communicate in any way, interact with objects, or provide any form of assistance in combat. Its structure is slightly more durable than the sum of its parts and easily resists damage from harsh winds, water and salt but is easily destroyed by mundane means such as hammers or fire.

Spiny Coppers: A thick leather sack dotted with small pinpricks containing a dozen ordinary looking copper coins. The coins bear the standard marking and denominations for the area; however, a perceptive PC will notice a barely perceptible symbol of a caltrop etched in a discrete area. When the command word is spoken, all the Spiny Coppers within earshot sprout a multitude of tiny blades and spikes, which damages containers and slices up flesh. Coins held in hand or pressed against skin deal 1 point of damage to the bearer and damages coins pouches, clothing and other objects as normal. The blades and spikes can be ordered to extend once per round and remain extended for one minute or until ordered to retract. The coins function perfectly well as caltrops when activated.

Stalker’s Looking Glass: A small leather purse containing two hand mirrors which are identical except that one has the symbol of an open eye etched into its backing while the other has a closed eye in the same place. While the mirrors are within 50 feet of each other, looking through the mirror of the closed eye will show everything that its twinned mirror is currently reflecting. During that time looking through the mirror of the open eye reveals nothing but a normal reflection. When they are more than 50 feet apart both objects simply act as regular mirrors.

Strike Anywhere Ring: An iron ring set with a square shaped red crystal, filled with swirling black smoke. When worn the bearer will emit the faint but constant smell of wood smoke wherever they go. After one day of wear, the finger upon which the ring resides will turn blackened and charred as if seriously burned. This causes no pain or damage and does not restrict the finger’s movement or dexterity in any way. After this change, the blackened finger can be dragged against stone, metal or dry wood to create a shower of sparks as if tinder and flint was used. The sparks cause no damage to the bearer but can be used to start fires. If the ring is removed, the finger instantly reverts to its normal look and ceases to create sparks.

Stylus of Fading Sight: A small writing stylus made from the oversized hyoid horn (Tongue bone) of a giant chameleon. When held, the bone’s coloration slowly shifts to better match the hand of whoever holds it. The stylus turns any ink it is used to write with into invisible ink which blends into the paper. The invisible ink can only be seen under specific circumstances such as the low heat of a candle flame or a light sprinkling of vinegar or similar mildly acidic liquid.

The Foghorn of Fog: A brass signal horn decorated with clouds and rolling fogbanks engulfing grassy fields. A creature can take a deep breath and blow into the horn, taking an action equivalent to making a weapon attack or casting a spell. When used, the horn bellows a deep rumbling bass tone like a ship’s foghorn that can be heard up to a mile. Along with the sound, a cloud of fog comes out of the horn and completely obscures a ten-foot radius around the user. The cloud last for 12 seconds but can be renewed by blowing the horn again which also recreates the sound. The fog dissipates quickly if the horn is not blown again and can also be blown away by strong winds or burned off by large sources of fire. You get the feeling there was a breakdown in communication somewhere in the creation of this item about what its exact function was supposed to be.

The Wigmaker: A fist sized blue ceramic sphere that when touched, instantly causes all the creature’s hair and fur to fall off their body. The process is painless and the shed hair is not damaged in the process. The newly bald creature will regrow all the shed hair to exactly as it was before the next time they get a full night’s rest. The regrowth process will leave the creature weakened, causing them to require twice as much food and water and to feel exhausted as if they had received no sleep at all. This weakened state lasts for the remainder of the day after the creature wakes and fades after another full night’s rest. The object requires a 72 hour recharge period after being activated wherein it can be handled safely and cannot be activated.

Vestal’s Ward: A pristine white marble statuette of a woman in religious garb that emits a red pulsing light with the intensity of a candle when a creature within 30 feet experiences thoughts of a sexual nature.

Wand of Frog Touch: A large desiccated frog lashed to a wooden stick with sinew cord. This bizarre wand can be used as a spell focus for magical abilities. Once per day while casting a spell, the wielder may instill a portion of his life force into the dried amphibian (Which deals one hit point of damage per character level to the wielder or 10% of the wielder’s maximum health or other equivalent amount) to animate and a deliver a spell that requires physical contact with the target. The frog moves up to 15 feet to reach the target and uses the wielder’s statistics to determine if the touch spell is successful. If the frog takes any damage or is unsuccessful for any reason the spell is lost and the frog is immediately destroyed and reappears the next day on the wand. If the dried creature is successful, it dissolves in a haze of light thematically appropriate for the type of spell cast and reappears on the wand the next day.

Wand of Phenomenal Pheromonal Fragrance: A foot-long wand made made of a large insect antenna. When used, two smaller antennae come out of the wand and feel up a nearby object. After retreating back into the wand the user gains sense of smell of the object as if they had put their face right up to it and inhaled deeply. The user gains advantage on perception checks based on taste and smell.

Ring of Dizzying Sight: A polished hematite ring covered in miniature eyeballs which are constantly looking in all directions. One minute after donning the ring, the bearer’s field of vision widens to the extremes as he gains 360-degree vision allowing the user to see things behind him just as easily as objects directly in front of him. Creatures attacking the bearer while in flanking positions gain no special attack bonuses, as the creature is able watch them all simultaneously. Due to a faulty enchantment, an inexperienced artificer or simple oversight, the ring does not grant the bearer the needed sensory processing power to deal with the all-round vision. The bearer will suffer from vertigo, dizziness, and faint nausea on a near constant basis and will find it quite difficult to remain properly balanced. If the bearer moves more than half of his regular move speed he loses his equilibrium and falls prone. Should the ring be removed, the bearer’s sight instantly returns to normal however, he continues to suffer the vertigo and reduced speed for one minute while he readjusts to the change in visual perception. —Note: For example, if the bearer could move up to 30 feet in a round, he falls prone after moving 15 feet. A character who sacrifices other actions to gain more movement can take that movement but it would still be halved. For example, the bearer could move 15 feet then sacrifice his ability to attack this round (Gaining 30 feet of movement) and move another 15 feet.

Trick Rope: An ordinary looking 15 foot length of hemp rope that will instantly release itself from every knot that it’s been tied in when fingers are snapped within earshot of it.

A single silky red glove that feels strangely warm to the touch. While worn, the gloved fingers and thumb can be rubbed together causing the entire glove to glow, creating light equivalent to a candle. The light persists as long as the bearer continues to rub the fingers together.

Divine Augury: A silver coin whose one side shines brightly and displays the image of an angel rising above the clouds, its hands raising up the souls of the worthy to the heavenly gates, with a prayer written in celestial engraved along the edges. On its opposite side, the coin is blackened and charred and sports the image of a demon torturing a soul in hell with a curse written in demonic engraved along the edges. One per day, a creature may flip the coin while considering a specific course of action (The player must disclose this idea to the DM) that the user plans to take within the next 30 minutes. If the course of action will likely provide good results, the angelic side lands heads up. If the course of actions will likely end badly, the demonic side lands face up. If the specified course of action is too vague, would end in mixed results or results that aren’t especially good or bad the coin has an equal chance of landing on either side. Furthermore, there is a 5% chance that the coin fails to function at all and simply lands randomly. The creature has no way of confirming if the coin functioned correctly or gave them a random result based on mixed results, vague information or simply failed to function. —Note: The good or bad results only concern the user, therefore if the course of action would lead to an ally losing a hand but the user gaining 100 gold the result would be “good”.

Caduceus of Triage: A shining silver medallion displaying two snakes entwined around a winged staff. When worn, the bearer becomes instinctively aware of any creature within 15 feet of him that is suffering from mundane sickness, disease, poison, parasites, fractures or other serious medical condition. The bearer does not learn of the specific issue or number of issues the creatures may have or how to treat them. If the bearer spends a moment to concentrate on the medallion, he may determine which creature within 15 feet of him is in the greatest need of medical attention. The medallion’s magic will only function if the bearer has not harmed an intelligent creature within the last 24 hours.  

Warning Wyrm: A hand sized dragon statuette made of interwoven wicker vines, with eyes fashioned from glass marbles. When within one mile of a living dragon, the statuette’s eyes glow brightly in a color that matches the scales of the nearest dragon.

Screaming Skull: A small white rubber ball in the shape of a human skull. Five seconds after being squeezed the orb will produces various terrified screams which seem to be originating from a constantly changing assortment of men, woman and children. The screaming randomly alternates in intensity, pitch, number of voices and emotional terror for a total of one minute, at which point it falls silent. The skull can be used one per hour and can be thrown immediately after it’s squeezed.

Love Potion: A small sealed glass vial labeled “Bottled Love” with the instructions “One drop per draught of ale” written in feminine looping script along the side. The smell of the clear liquid inside is tempting but quickly becomes overpowering sweet. When consumed, the liquid acts as an intoxicant and aphrodisiac while generally lowering the drinker’s inhibitions. A creature who consumes the liquid, suffers disadvantage on any checks to perceive that a creature or situation is dangerous, means them harm or is intending to trick or take advantage of them in some way. Furthermore, creatures gain advantage on diplomacy, persuasion, seduction or other social checks while attempting to convince the victim to do something if the act is not obviously dangerous or lethal. The love potion does not cause any slurred speech, dizziness, blurred vision or other symptoms associated with drunkenness. Those who consume the potion are much more receptive to taking actions or making decisions they would not normally make, however they are fully cognizant of their actions and would not violate their core ethical or moral beliefs without extreme need. The potion takes effect immediately after being consumed and its effects last for one hour. When found, the vial contains enough liquid to dose 5d4 creatures.  

Bloodfeeder’s Bane: A chain necklace on which is strung a consecrated silver vial bearing the holy symbol of a Random God of a Good Domain. The vial is filled with the preserved blood of a vampire and stoppered with the bone of a saint whose life’s work was the destruction of undead that feed on the living. When worn, the vial imparts the bearer a sense of righteousness and a desire to destroy undead, especially vampires and their unholy spawn. All undead creatures who feed on the flesh or drink the blood of the living (Or consume the recently dead) suffer disadvantage on attacks against the bearer. The bearer must be good aligned to receive this protection and instantly lose the effect should they ever knowingly align themselves, work for, associate or consort with undead creatures.  

Creeping Claw: A dried goblin’s hand bearing wickedly sharp claws. A large steel chain link penetrates the base of palm and is attached to a 30-foot length of hempen rope. A creature can cover the hand in their own freshly shed blood (Causing 1 hit point of damage) which causes the hand to animate. The creature can then mentally control the severed limb and command it to move and interact with objects. The hand walks on the tips on its fingers and can move up to 15 feet a round or climb five vertical feet per round by digging its claws into surfaces. The hand can perform simple tasks, can exert ten pounds of force and is as dexterous as the creature controlling it. The hand remains animated for five minutes at which point it requires new fresh blood to function.  

A jagged, foot-long flint wand that can be activated to create a candle sized flame to alight on its tip. The fire can be sustained for up to a minute or suppressed at any time. The wand can be activated once every ten minutes.

A single, thick, beeswax candle that will burn forever without being consumed. It can be doused and relit as often as desired. The scented candlewax never loses its heady aroma of warm beeswax and honey.  

Dwarvish Translator: A tough granite stein carved with images of feasting dwarves. A creature holding the stein feels the urge to drink, shout, and start needless arguments with anyone taller than them. Any liquid drunk directly from the stein is treated as if it had twice its actual alcohol content. A drunk creature who holds the stein, can perfectly speak (But not understand) Dwarven as if they were a sober native speaker.

Orb of Night: A dusky belt pouch containing a fist sized polished jet-black orb of perfect darkness that reflects nothing. If the orb is removed from the pouch, small flames of torch sized or smaller within five feet are extinguished, as their heat and light are sucked directly into the globe’s inky darkness. After absorbing fire, the orb grows warm for one hour, during which time it is not able to absorb any sources of heat or light.

Stationary Rod: A two-foot long flat iron rod with a button on one end. When the button is pressed, the rod becomes magically fixed in place and does not move (Even if it is defying gravity) until the button is pressed again. The rod can hold up to 20 pounds of weight. If the rod is subjected to more than 20 pounds of force while it is activated, it is moved along as if being dragged through the air until it comes to rest again.

Mariner’s Mask: A crude driftwood mask covered in scintillating fish scales. When a creature wearing the mask enters a body of water, small horizontal slits open on the bearer’s neck. These openings cause no pain and upon close inspection resemble fish gills. While completely submerged in water, the bearer slowly absorbs oxygen through the underdeveloped gills, which supplement’s the body’s oxygen supply but cannot replace true breathing. The mask allows its bearer can hold their breath for five times as long as normal while completely submerged in water.  

Miser’s Coin: A standard gold coin that appears moderately worn as if it had been rubbed repeatedly or used as a worry stone. A creature can bind the coin to themselves by coating it in their fresh blood (Causing 1 hit point damage) which establishes a mental link to the coin and breaks the coin’s link to its previous owner. A creature linked to the coin develops a mild compulsion to hoard gold and other precious currency and feels the urge to spend as little as possible in all situations. When linked to the coin and within 20 feet of it, the owner can sense its exact location and teleport the coin to his hand with a thought.

Medallion of the Forked Tongue: An expensive looking amulet depicting a king cobra with its hood spread and maw open, bearing its hypodermic fangs and long forked tongue. At a glance, the serpent’s body appears to be made of gold with a tongue made of silver and small rubies for eyes.  Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the jewelry’s very appearance is a lie and that it is actually comprised of highly polished brass, shiny tin and red tinted glass. The bearer of the amulet experiences the faint but constant urge to lie whenever they speak and experiences a fleeting euphoric sensation whenever they are intentionally dishonest. It is not uncommon for even the most honest of bearers to become pathological in their misrepresentation of the truth, uttering white lies, half-truths and lies of omission as they become addicted to the short-lived euphoria. Twice per day the bearer can call upon the medallion’s power allowing him to tell a lie without making any kind of verbal tells or physical ticks, granting the bearer advantage on a single bluff, deception or lie check.

The Sound of Friendship: A sparkling silver whistle strung on a white silken cord. When blown, the whistle’s piercing report can be clearly heard up to a quarter-mile away by creatures the user considers allies. All other creatures are completely unable to hear the whistle.

Ring of Roguish Hearing: An obsidian ring that when worn, allows the bearer to understand Thieves’ Cant, the secret language of rogues, criminals, charlatans and the seedy underbelly of society. The bearer is not granted the ability to speak, read or write in this language and the ring does not offer any aid to learning the language, as the words are automatically translated into a language the bearer understands. —Note: If your campaign setting doesn’t have an official language like Thieves’ Cant, you can allow the bearer to understand all criminal, shady, illegal slang or lingo in regards to crimes, drugs, black market services, etc. The slang is then automatically translated into words, terms and sayings the bearer understands.  

Ring of Roguish Tongue: An obsidian ring that when worn, allows the bearer to speak Thieves’ Cant, the secret language of rogues, criminals, charlatans and the seedy underbelly of society. The bearer is not granted the ability to understand, read or write in this language and the ring does not offer any aid to learning the language, as the bearer hears the words he speaks in his native tongue. —Note: If your campaign setting doesn’t have an official language like Thieves’ Cant, you can allow the bearer to be able to speak using criminal, shady or illegal slang or lingo in regards to crimes, drugs, black market services, etc.

Reflections of Vanity: A palm sized compact mirror in a circular silver case. A creature holding the object can utter the command phrase “Mirror, mirror” which causes it to grow or shrink as the user chooses. The silver case liquefies and flows into its new shape, stretching or condensing the mirror’s reflective surface forcing it into the alternate form. The mirror is perfectly reflective and seems to possess a deep quality as if viewer were staring into a deep body of water rather than a thin sheet of glass. The mirror has four different shapes: A palm sized compact, a hand mirror, a square mirror one-foot-wide and a full length mirror five feet tall by two feet wide. The square mirror naturally floats in the air at face level facing the creature that activated it, while the full length mirror floats three inches off of the ground. Both can be commanded to hover in any place or face in any direction within five feet of the user and neither can hover while supporting additional weight. The mirror reverts back into its compact form and places itself safely on the ground if it strays more than five feet from its user, the user goes more than one minute without looking at his reflection or if it is physically harmed. Should the mirror be damaged, it instantly curls and retracts back into its compact form like an injured animal and refuses to open or shift forms for one week.

Spoon of Desperation: A chipped wooden spoon bearing a single arcane rune meaning “Edible”.  When tapped on an inert organic or semi-organic material (wood, dirt, bone) the spoon transmutes that matter into edible foodstuffs. The transmuted material is nutritious enough to serve as food but will be mushy, unpalatable and look and taste strongly of the original material. The spoon can transmute enough material (Roughly one pound) to feed one adult human per day.

Amulet of Hope: A crudely made child’s poppet made mostly of string, twigs and snatches of faded fabric. The poppet has been infused with the pure, unadulterated optimism of the child that put it together. A creature wearing the amulet feels as though there are always positive solutions to problems and that if they try their hardest they can always succeed. The toy feels warm to the bearer’s touch and hums a reassuring nursery rhyme when held. If there are no other sources of light, the amulet will glow with a warm golden light that is as bright as a candle. Whenever the bearer rolls a natural 1 on a save to resist fear or terror effects, he may roll again and use the new result. The amulet displays none of these effects and appears completely mundane to a bearer who has ever deliberately killed a humanoid child.

Specter’s Top: A child’s spinning top made of pristine white bone. A few well-placed holes have been drilled through the toy, causing it to make a mournful haunting sound when in use. If spun, the top will continue to rotate indefinitely if there are any incorporeal or invisible undead within 50 feet. If there are no such creatures within the radius, the top stops spinning and falls normally.

Colorthief’s Brush: An ornate mahogany and horsehair paintbrush bearing a silver needle on its back. To activate the brush’s magic, it must be instilled with a portion of a living creature’s essence by jabbing them with the needle, dealing 1 hit point of damage. The brush becomes magically self-cleaning and creates its own paint for one hour after activation at which point it requires more life essence. While it is activated, the user can prick the needle into any object which leeches away some of the object’s vibrancy causing it to become slightly greyer. This causes the brush to create paint of the exact same shade as the pricked object. The brush can only store one shade of paint at any time, and loses the color once it becomes inactive.

Chest of the Mundane: A battered looking oaken chest, half a cubic foot in size. It’s locking mechanism while serviceable is easily picked or jimmied. Any object placed the chest is covered with illusionary magic that causes it to appear worthless, plain or boring. Gold coins turn to copper, porcelain vases turn to clay, bolts of silk turn to wool and precious gemstones turn to sparkly rocks. The illusion is only a visual one and has no effect on the object’s material composition. An object must remain in the chest for five minutes before the magic takes effect and remains masked by the illusion for one minute after being removed from the chest.

A delicate bracelet consisting of a dozen beads of rose quartz on a silken cord. The gemstones glow as bright as a candle for a few seconds in a soft pink hue, whenever a magical spell is cast within 30 feet of them.

Master’s Needles: An ornate tattooing kit complete with a variety of needles and inks. When the needles are used to ink a tattoo, the image becomes animate on the recipient’s skin and has limited mobility. The image can be set to go through a visual loop of a maximum of one minute and cannot move more than the length of it’s radius from the centermost point of the tattoo. For example, a ten-inch-wide tattoo of a clock face could count from one to 60 on a loop and move five inches from the center point of the face. However, a demon fighting a angel that takes up the user’s entire back could have a repeating minute-long fight that crosses the user’s entire body. All of these conditions are set mentally by the tattooist at the time of creation and cannot be changed short of dispelling magic, flensing the skin or altering it with a similar magic tattoo kit. Creating a tattoo this way takes three times as long as normal and requires the tattooist’s full mental concentration.

Hornet Ring: A gaudy brass ring stamped with the symbol of an angry hornet in flight. Its bearer to deliver a startling (But non-damaging) shock to a creature the bearer is physically touching. There is a 25% chance that a creature startled by the ring will drop anything they are holding. The bearer can activate the ring twice per minute but not more than once per round.

Bag of Acid: A thin cloth sack that fills itself with strong acid when the command word is spoken. The bag, however, is not made of acid-resistant material and is instantly destroyed. The sack would hold roughly 1.5 gallons of liquid.

Barkeep’s Rag: A grayish threadbare rectangle of fabric that’s possessed by the soul of a lifelong bartender. Any creature who uses the rag to clean any sort of of cup, glass or mug activates the rag and establishes a contention to the bartender’s memories. The user is gifted with a knowledge of alcoholic beverages and mixing drinks on par with a veteran mixologist. The user can create a decent mixed drink with even the barest of materials. Furthermore the user gains the ability to perform various alcohol related mixing, pouring, stacking, and juggling tricks flawlessly regardless of their individual dexterity or ability. Although practical limitations such as missing fingers or hands may stop the tricks from going smoothly. However, these abilities are not without limitation: While connected to the bartender’s soul, the user is must remain silent and only able to grunt or ask generic stock questions such as “what will it be?” “What are you having?” or “What’s your poison?”. The user must fill any drink order requested of them to the best of his ability and pay the utmost attention to his client’s drunken ramblings. If the user isn’t actively making a drink, he will unconsciously use the Rag to clean the nearest available cup, mug, glass or whatever flat surface is currently passing for a bar. If the user fails in any of these tasks, he is immediately stricken with the worst hangover of his life which gradually fades of the next 24 hours. The user may not establish a connection to the Rag again for seven days after failing to follow the Rag’s rules. The user may break the connection without penalty only if he is relieved by any other bartender or one hour after announcing “last call”, which he may do at any time.

Beauty Soap: A bar of high quality scented soap that is enchanted to painlessly remove all body hair below the neck, clean, exfoliate, moisturize and generally make the user’s skin feel smooth and soft. Used daily over the course of an extended period of time, the soap gradually erases and removes scar tissue, pockmarks, stretch marks, acne, warts, rosacea, birthmarks, freckles, calluses and other skin blemishes and replaces them with perfectly undamaged skin. The bar possesses an emphatic quality and will never remove hair or blemishes that the user does not want removed and changes it’s scent to whatever the user desires. The bar slowly regenerates and can be used by up to five creatures on a daily basis without comprising its size.

Belt of the Muskrat: A wonderfully made belt that displays the craftsmanship of a master leatherworker. A creature wearing the belt will feel a the primal urge to mate and reproduce. After 24 hours of being worn, the belt will start releasing its wild musk smells, which will be so strong as to be offensive (But not incapacitating) to humanoids within 30 feet, and will act as a musk-lure for all types of wildlife within 100 feet.

Bowl of the Efficient Traveler: A medium sized soup cauldron made of porcelain, that more resembles a chamber pot than a cooking implement. Whenever solid humanoid waste is placed in this container, it will instantly become a delicious and fortifying stew, which covers all of a humanoid’s nutritional needs and is also quite slimming. Invaluable on a long trip….or it would be if anyone could bring themselves to eat the stuff.

Cleaning Rag: A small patch of greyish rag that has been imbued with the power to clean surfaces of dust and light debris on its own. If the user places the fabric on an object and utters the command word “Clean” and then the name of the object, the rag starts to clean until the item is free of dust and debris at which point it falls to the ground.

Chalice of Profane Communion: An ornate iron chalice bearing the holy symbol of a God of a Random Evil Domain. If a creature holds the chalice while praying earnestly to that God for one minute, any liquid the vessel contains becomes cursed with divine energy. Immediately afterward, any creature who drinks the liquid directly from the chalice absorbs a part of that energy and their blood and eyes turn black and seem to absorb light for one hour.

Chalice of Sacred Communion: An ornate golden chalice bearing the holy symbol of a God of a Random Good Domain. If a creature holds the chalice while praying earnestly to that God for one minute, any liquid the vessel contains becomes blessed with divine energy. Immediately afterward, any creature who drinks the liquid directly from the chalice absorbs a part of that energy and their blood and eyes glow with a golden light for one hour.

Coin of The Dead: A large copper penny with a prayer for the dead etched into both of its sides. A creature can use this coin to send a message to the soul of a loved one who has passed away. The user must place one hand on the deceased creature while holding the coin in their other hand and recite its prayer out loud while focusing on a strong personal memory of the dead creature. This process takes one uninterrupted minute. After this the user must place the coin under their own tongue at which point they can compose a message of no more than five minutes in length. If done correctly, the creature’s soul will receive the message in whichever afterlife it currently resides. If the prayer is said incorrectly or if the user has no strong personal memories of the deceased, (DM’s discretion) the coin fails to function. The coin does not display any kind of sign or signal should the process succeed or fail. The coin can be used multiple times per day but a user can never send a second message to a creature they have already contacted or tried to contact.

Comb of Style: A shimmering comb made of polished horn, which gleams in even the faintest light. When brushed through the user’s hair it automatically arranges it into a hairstyle of the user’s choosing. The hairstyle must be physically possible and lasts for one hour before reverting back to normal. The comb can be used once per hour.

Druid’s Candy Pouch: A small fur pouch with leather straps decorated with etchings of various fruits and edible plants on it. Every dawn the pouch fills itself with a dozen gummy candies made from natural ingredients consisting of boiled down animal gelatin, concentrated fruit juices and honey. While inside the pouch, the candies do not melt or spoil, remaining fresh as if they were just made. If a type of natural, nontoxic fruit or edible plant material (Seeds, leaves, pieces of fruits, bark, etc) is placed into the otherwise empty pouch, that object will disappear and be replaced by candies of that plant’s flavor at dawn. If no material is placed inside, the pouch fills itself with a dozen candies of a single random flavor (See notes). The gummies transform into fertile soil 24 hours after being removed from the pouch if not consumed. If the pouch has candies in it from previous days, it will top itself up so that there are a maximum of 12 gummies inside. The pouch does not generate candy if it’s bearer has killed an animal for sport, pleasure or monetary reward in the past week. —Note: Roll to determine the random flavor, OR the pouch can cycle through the flavors daily: 1 Orange, 2 Apple, 3 Cherry, 4 Grape, 5 Maple, 6 Blackberry, 7 Peach, 8 Lemon, 9 Strawberry, 10 Blueberry, 11 Mint, 12 Licorice.

Dungeon Deodorizer: A ceramic tube filled with charcoal bearing small air holes on either end. Twice per day it can be activated by shaking the tube vigorously after which it begins to draw in air through one side and blowing it out through the other. The tube will clear clear the air of smoke, stale or musty air, foul smells, spores, toxins, poisons and other airborne nuisances in an enclosed room no more than 30 by 30 feet, in one minute’s time. At the end of the minute after the tube has cleared the air, all creatures in the area have advantage on any saving throws or checks made to resist the effects of airborne pathogens, poisons, toxins or other effects. Any new effects that are introduced after the tube has cleared the air are unaffected and function at normal strength.

Earmuffs of Serenity: A pair of lightweight earmuffs that play comforting nature sounds such as (But not limited to) waves on a beach, a bubbling brook, a rushing waterfall, morning in a forest, a rainstorm or wind through trees. The bearer can change the type of nature sounds, volume or turn the object on or off by tapping different sections of the earpieces. Alternatively, the earmuffs can be used to cancel incoming sounds rendering the bearer completely deaf.

Earrings of Light: A pair of silver earrings bearing simple glass studs. Once per hour, the bearer can cause their eyes to glow in a color of their choice, emitting the equivalent illumination of a candle. The glow lasts for up to one minute and the bearer can change the color at any time. The bearer can suppress the effect at will but must wait for one hour before activating it again.  

Frozen Familiar: A small cloth pouch riddled with small nibble marks that appears to having something moving inside of it. It appears that the pouch has been routinely repaired as stitching of various age and wear is quite noticeable. The pouch feels ice cold to touch regardless of the ambient temperature. Inside is an skeletal mouse whose bones are covered in arcane unmelting ice. The undead mouse will follow whoever carries the pouch, as well as following the bearer’s basic commands. The mouse understands its bearer’s spoken words but cannot speak or understands the words of other creatures and is only as intelligent as a particularly smart mouse. The ice will melt if the mouse goes further than 50 feet from the pouch leaving an inanimate skeleton. To revive the familiar, the bones must be left in the pouch for 72 hours and which time it is brought back to unlife.

Gambler’s Cuff Links: A pair of matched silver cuff links bearing the icons of a pair of dice on a playing card. They have been possessed by the soul of a career gambler and notoriously honest man. Wearing the cuff links on an outwardly visible part of the body imparts the bearer with the gambler’s memories and skills. The bearer gains the knowledge of the exact rules and variations of the rules for a myriad of dice and card games. The bearer knows the rules and strategies instinctively as if they had played those games since childhood. The bearer is also able to perform card, dice and various related sleight of hand tricks flawlessly regardless of their individual dexterity or ability, although practical limitations such as missing fingers or hands may stop the tricks from going smoothly. However, these abilities are not without limitation: These memories and skills are only accessible in the context of a bet or wager of cards or dice when money or valuables are being staked. Furthermore the bearer may never cheat or benefit in any way from cheating while using the cuff links. If the bearer ever cheats (either to benefit themselves or another person) or knowingly benefits from another person cheating on their behalf the cuff links cease to function for him until that bet is squared away and repaid in full. —Note: The bearer is allowed to bluff at cards, misdirect his opponent, bend the spirit of the rules while remaining in the letter of them and so forth without penalty, but he may never use marked cards, stack the deck in any player’s favor, lie about or outright break the rules, hide cards up his sleeve, use loaded dice, receive outside help, etc.  

Goodberry Pouch: A long travel pouch crafted from woven strips birch bark and vibrantly colored leaves. Despite the absence of roots or any kind of basic sap circulatory system, small fruits are growing on both the inside and outside of the satchel. If the pouch is provided a pint of water and an hour of sunlight a day, it will yield 1d6+1 berries per week which will regrow if harvested. The satchel will maintain a total of seven ripe berries if the bearer doesn’t harvest it. Consuming a berry gives the creature a mild euphoric feeling, heals 1 hit point of damage and are as nutritious and filling as eating an entire meal. The plucked berries lose their effects 12 hours after being removed from the pouch and a creature cannot benefit from their effects more than once per 24-hour period. If the pouch goes more than three days without adequate water and sunlight, all its berries shrivel and die and the satchel enters a dormant state. A dormant pouch must be provided with eight consecutive uninterrupted hours of sunlight along with a gallon of water at which point it resumes normal functioning.  

Hag Finger: A shriveled green finger that is warm to touch and covered in a thick layer of perpetual slime and algae. The finger once belonged to a type of malevolent fey known as a hag and the digit retains the faint memories of its full form. A creature can place the finger in their mouth and suck on the toxic slime which infuses their body with illusionary magic. A few moments after swallowing the virulent algae, the magic causes the user to look like a bent old woman with matted white hair, sinewy arms and rotted green teeth. The use of the finger comes with some practical limitations as it must remain in the user’s mouth constantly while the slime is consumed or the magic instantly fails. This makes it quite difficult to speak properly and nearly impossible to cast spells that require verbal components. The user suffers disadvantage on any checks requiring fluent speech (Such as diplomacy, singing, bluff or some intimidation checks) and a 75% chance that a spell requiring speech will fail. Furthermore, whenever the user first places the finger in their mouth and after every ten minutes of constant use, the user suffers 1 point of poison damage as the toxic algae enters their system.

House Helper: A one-foot tall wooden statuette expertly carved and painted to look like a maid. When the command word is spoken, the carving springs to live and can be commanded by its activator to perform simple domestic tasks (Such as: sweep the floor, clean the dishes or darn socks) which it will perform until it becomes too damaged to function, ordered to do otherwise or the job is completed. The figurine can only be given one task at a time and works diligently on whatever its last command was. The statuette can exert up to 20 pounds of force but cannot under any circumstances, directly or indirectly cause harm to a creature. If multiple House Helpers are given the same goal they will actively work together to achieve it.  

[abidingingodsgraceministries]

THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY'S TRUE GLORIOUS SABBATH!® —2021©AIGGM —ABIDING IN GOD'S GRACE©MINISTRIES {AIGGM} — AN AIGGM ORIGINAL©

• ABIDING IN GOD'S GRACE©MINISTRIES

• SATURDAY AUGUST 14TH, 2021

• AIGGM BIBLE STUDY

• JUDAISM | CHRISTIANITY | JEWISH | HEBREW

• THE SABBATH

The [Jewish] SABBATH (from Hebrew shavat, “TO REST”) is observed throughout the year on the seventh day of the week—SATURDAY. As we read, learn, see and study [our Bible's] Biblical tradition, it commemorates the ORIGINAL seventh day on which God Almighty rested after completing [the] His Creation.

Apparently according to 'Scholars' , 'Britannica Encyclopedia' , and 'Wikipedia'.... Scholars have not succeeded in tracing the origin of the seven-day week, nor can they account for the origin of the Sabbath. A seven-day week does not accord well with either a solar or a lunar calendar. Some scholars, pointing to the Akkadian term shapattu, suggest a Babylonian origin for the seven-day week and the Sabbath. But shapattu, which refers to the day of the full moon and is nowhere described as a day of rest, has little in common with the Jewish Sabbath. It appears that the notion of the Sabbath as a holy day of rest, linking God to his people and recurring every seventh day, was unique to ancient Israel.

< IMPORTANCE: >

The central significance of the Sabbath for Judaism is reflected in the traditional commentative and interpretative literature called Talmud and Midrash (e.g., “if you wish to destroy the Jewish people, abolish their Sabbath first”) and in numerous legends and adages from more-recent literature (e.g., “more than Israel kept the Sabbath, the Sabbath kept Israel”). Some of the basic teachings of Judaism affirmed by the Sabbath are God’s acts of creation, God’s role in history, and God’s covenant with Israel. Moreover, the Sabbath is the ONLY Jewish holiday with the observance of which is enjoined by the Ten Commandments. Jews [and Christians] are obligated to SANCTIFY the SABBATH at home and in the synagogue [Church] by observing the SABBATH LAWS and engaging in WORSHIP and STUDY. The leisure hours afforded by the ban against work on the Sabbath were put to good use by the rabbis, who used them to promote intellectual activity and spiritual regeneration among Jews. Other days of rest [as noted and cited from 'Britannica Encyclopedia' and 'Wikipedia'], such as the Roman Catholic Sunday [which Christianity sadly, foolishly and abdominally adopted] and the Islamic Friday, owe their origins to the Jewish Sabbath.

< OBSERVANCES: >

The biblical ban against work on the Sabbath, while never clearly defined, includes activities such as baking and cooking, travelling, kindling fire, gathering wood, buying and selling, and bearing burdens from one domain into another. The Talmudic rabbis listed 39 major categories of prohibited work, including agricultural activity (e.g., plowing and reaping), work entailed in the manufacture of cloth (e.g., spinning and weaving), work entailed in preparing documents (e.g., writing), and other forms of constructive work.

At home the Sabbath begins Friday evening some 20 minutes before sunset, with the lighting of the Sabbath candles by the wife or, in her absence, by the husband. In the synagogue the Sabbath is ushered in at sunset with the recital of selected psalms and the Lekha Dodi, a 16th-century Kabbalistic (mystical) poem. The refrain of the latter is “Come, my beloved, to meet the bride,” the “bride” being the Sabbath. After the evening service, each Jewish household begins the first of three festive Sabbath meals by reciting the Kiddush (“sanctification” of the Sabbath) over a cup of wine. This is followed by a ritual washing of the hands and the breaking of bread, two loaves of bread (commemorating the double portions of manna described in Exodus) being placed before the breaker of bread at each Sabbath meal. After the festive meal the remainder of the evening is devoted to study or relaxation. The distinctive features of the Sabbath morning synagogue service include the public reading of the Torah, or Five Books of Moses (the portion read varies from week to week), and, generally, the sermon, BOTH of which SERVE to EDUCATE the listeners. Following the service, the second Sabbath meal begins, again preceded by Kiddush (of lesser significance), conforming for the most part to the first Sabbath meal. The afternoon synagogue service is followed by the third festive meal (without Kiddush). After the evening service the Sabbath comes to a close with the havdala (“distinction”) ceremony, which consists of a benediction noting the distinction between Sabbath and weekday, usually recited over a cup of wine accompanied by a spice box and candle.

• THE JEWISH HOLIDAYS:

The major Jewish holidays are the Pilgrim Festivals—Pesaḥ (Passover), Shavuot (Feast of Weeks, or Pentecost), and Sukkoth (Tabernacles)—and the High Holidays—Rosh Hashana (New Year) and Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement). The observance of all the major holidays is required by the Torah and work is prohibited for the duration of the holiday (except on the intermediary days of the Pesaḥ and Sukkoth festivals, when work is permitted to avoid financial loss). Purim (Feast of Lots) and Hanukkah (Feast of Dedication), while not mentioned in the Torah (and therefore of lesser solemnity), were instituted by Jewish authorities in the Persian and Greco-Roman periods. They are sometimes regarded as minor festivals because they lack the work restrictions of the major festivals. In addition, there are the five fasts—ʿAsara be-Ṭevet (Fast of Ṭevet 10), Shivaʿ ʿAsar be-Tammuz (Fast of Tammuz 17), Tisha be-Av (Fast of Av 9), Tzom Gedaliahu (Fast of Gedaliah), and Taʿanit Esther (Fast of Esther)—and the lesser holidays (i.e., holidays the observances of which are few and not always clearly defined)—such as Rosh Ḥodesh (First Day of the Month), Ṭu bi-Shevaṭ (15th of Shevaṭ: New Year for Trees), and Lag ba-ʿOmer (33rd Day of the ʿOmer Counting). The fasts and the lesser holidays, like the minor festivals, lack the work restrictions characteristic of the major festivals. Although some of the fasts and Rosh Ḥodesh are mentioned in Scripture, most of the details concerning their proper observance, as well as those concerning the other lesser holidays, were provided by the Talmudic and medieval rabbis.

• PILGRIM FESTIVALS:

In Temple times, all males were required to appear at the Temple three times annually and actively participate in the festal offerings and celebrations. These were the joyous Pilgrim Festivals of Pesaḥ, Shavuot, and Sukkoth. They originally marked the major agricultural seasons in ancient Israel and commemorated Israel’s early history; but, after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, emphasis was placed almost exclusively on the commemorative aspect.

In modern Israel, Pesaḥ, Shavuot, and Sukkoth are celebrated for seven days, one day, and eight days, respectively (with Shemini Atzeret added to Sukkoth), as prescribed by Scripture. Due to calendrical uncertainties that arose in Second Temple times (6th century BCE to 1st century CE), each festival is celebrated for an additional day in the Diaspora.

Pesaḥ commemorates the Exodus from Egypt and the servitude that preceded it. As such, it is the most significant of the commemorative holidays, for it celebrates the very inception of the Jewish people—i.e., the event which provided the basis for the covenant between God and Israel. The term pesaḥ refers originally to the paschal (Passover) lamb sacrificed on the eve of the Exodus, the blood of which marked the Jewish homes to be spared from God’s plague; its etymological significance, however, remains uncertain. The Hebrew root is usually rendered “passed over”—i.e., God passed over the homes of the Israelites when inflicting the last plague on the Egyptians—hence the term Passover. The festival is also called Ḥag or Matzot (“Festival of Unleavened Bread”), for unleavened bread is the only kind of bread consumed during Passover.

Leaven (seʾor) and foods containing leaven (ḥametz) are neither to be owned nor consumed during Pesaḥ. Aside from meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables, it is customary to consume only food prepared under rabbinic supervision and labelled “kosher for Passover,” warranting that they are completely free of contact with leaven. In many homes, special sets of crockery, cutlery, and cooking utensils are acquired for Passover use. On the evening preceding the 14th day of Nisan, the home is thoroughly searched for any trace of leaven (bediqat ḥametz). The following morning the remaining particles of leaven are destroyed by fire (biʿur ḥametz). From then until after Pesaḥ, no leaven is consumed. Many Jews sell their more valuable leaven products to non-Jews before Passover (mekhirat ḥametz), repurchasing the foodstuffs immediately after the holiday.

The unleavened bread (matzo) consists entirely of flour and water, and great care is taken to prevent any fermentation before baking. Hand-baked matzo is flat, rounded, and perforated. Since the 19th century, many Jews have preferred the square-shaped, machine-made matzo.

Passover eve is ushered in at the synagogue service on the evening before Passover, after which each family partakes of the seder (“order of service”), an elaborate festival meal in which every ritual is regulated by the rabbis. (In the Diaspora the seder is also celebrated on the second evening of Passover.) The table is bedecked with an assortment of foods symbolizing the passage from slavery (e.g., bitter herbs) into freedom (e.g., wine). The Haggada (“Storytelling”), a printed manual comprising appropriate passages culled from Scripture and Talmud and Midrash accompanied by medieval hymns, serves as a guide for the ensuing ceremonies and is recited as the evening proceeds. The seder opens with the cup of sanctification (Kiddush), the first of four cups of wine drunk by the celebrants. An invitation is extended to the needy to join the seder ceremonies, after which the youngest son asks four prescribed questions expressing his surprise at the many departures from usual mealtime procedure. (“How different this night is from all other nights!”) The father then explains that the Jews were once slaves in Egypt, were then liberated by God, and now commemorate the servitude and freedom by means of the seder ceremonies. Special blessings are recited over the unleavened bread and the bitter herbs (maror), after which the main courses are served. The meal closes with a serving of matzo recalling the paschal lamb, consumption of which concluded the meal in Temple times. The seder concludes with the joyous recital of hymns praising God’s glorious acts in history and anticipating a messianic redemption to come.

The Passover liturgy is considerably expanded and includes the daily recitation of Psalms 113–118 (Hallel, “Praise”), public readings from the Torah, and an additional service (musaf). On the first day of Pesaḥ, a prayer for dew in the Holy Land is recited; on the last day, the memorial service for the departed (yizkor) is added.

Originally an agricultural festival marking the wheat harvest, Shavuot commemorates the revelation of the Torah on Mount Sinai. Shavuot (“Weeks”) takes its name from the seven weeks of grain harvest separating Passover and Shavuot. The festival is also called Ḥag ha-Qazir (Harvest Festival) and Yom ha-Bikkurim (Day of First Fruits). Greek-speaking Jews called it pentēkostē, meaning “the fiftieth” day after the sheaf offering. In rabbinic literature, Shavuot is called atzeret (“cessation” or “conclusion”), perhaps because the cessation of work is one of its distinctive features, or possibly because it was viewed as concluding the Passover season. In liturgical texts it is described as the “season of the giving of our Torah.” The association of Shavuot with the revelation at Sinai, while not attested in Scripture, is alluded to in the Pseudepigrapha (a collection of noncanonical writings); in rabbinic literature it first appears in 2nd-century materials. The association, probably an ancient one, was derived in part from the book of Exodus, which dates the revelation at Sinai to the third month (counting from Nisan)—i.e., Sivan.

Scholars state and claim that Scripture does not provide an absolute date for Shavuot. [Read and Study The Book Of Enoch, and The Other Books That Were Removed From From Our Bible's, By The Vatican.. Roman Catholic Church.. The Bishop Centuries and Decades Ago]. So then Instead, 50 days (or seven weeks) are reckoned from the day the sheaf offering (ʿOmer) of the harvest was brought to the Temple, the 50th day being Shavuot. According to the Talmudic rabbis, the sheaf offering was brought on the 16th of Nisan; hence Shavuot always fell on or about the 6th of Sivan. Some Jewish sectarians, such as the Sadducees, rejected the rabbinic tradition concerning the date of the sheaf ceremony, preferring a later date, and celebrated Shavuot accordingly.

In Temple times, aside from the daily offerings, festival offerings, and first-fruit gifts, a special cereal consisting of two breads prepared from the new wheat crop was offered at the Temple. Since the destruction of the Second Temple, Shavuot observances have been dominated by its commemorative aspect. Many Jews spend the entire Shavuot night studying Torah, a custom first mentioned in the Zohar (“Book of Splendour”), a Kabbalistic work edited and published in the 13th–14th centuries. Some prefer to recite the tiqqun lel Shavuʿot (“Shavuot night service”), an anthology of passages from Scripture and the Mishna (the authoritative compilation of the Oral Law). An expanded liturgy includes Hallel, public readings from the Torah, yizkor (in many congregations), and musaf. The Book of Ruth is read at the synagogue service, possibly because of its harvest-season setting.

Sukkoth (“Booths”), an ancient harvest festival that commemorates the booths the Israelites resided in after the Exodus, was the most prominent of the three Pilgrim Festivals in ancient Israel. Also called Ḥag ha-Asif (Festival of Ingathering), it has retained its joyous, festive character through the ages. It begins on Tishri 15 and is celebrated for seven days. The concluding eighth day (plus a ninth day in the Diaspora), Shemini Atzeret, is a separate holiday. In Temple times, each day of Sukkoth had its own prescribed number of sacrificial offerings. Other observances, recorded in the Mishna tractate Sukka, include the daily recitation of Hallel, daily circumambulation of the Temple altar, a daily water libation ceremony, and the nightly bet ha-shoʾeva or bet ha-sheʾuvah (“place of water drawing”) festivities starting on the evening preceding the second day. The last-mentioned observance features torch dancing, flute playing, and other forms of musical and choral entertainment.

[[Sukkah (hut erected for the celebration of Sukkoth) with palm leaves, Herzliya, Israel, 2007.]]

Ideally, Jews are to reside in booths—walled structures covered with thatched roofs—for the duration of the festival; in practice, most observant Jews take their meals in the sukka (“booth”) but reside at home. A palm-tree branch (lulav) bound up together with myrtle (hadas) and willow (ʿarava) branches is held together with a citron (etrog) and waved. Medieval exegetes provided ample (if not always persuasive) justification for the Bible’s choice of these particular branches and fruit as SYMBOLS of REJOICING. The numerous regulations governing the sukka, lulav, and etrog constitute the major portion of the treatment of Sukkoth in the codes of Jewish law. The daily Sukkoth liturgy includes the recitation of Hallel (Psalms, 113–118), public readings from the Torah, the musaf service, and the circumambulation of the synagogue dais. On the last day of Sukkoth, called Hoshana Rabba (Great Hoshana) after the first words of a prayer (hoshana, “save us”) recited then, seven such circumambulations take place. Kabbalistic (mystical) teaching has virtually transformed Hoshana Rabba into a solemn day of judgment.

Hoshana Rabba is followed by Shemini Atzeret (Eighth Day of Solemn Assembly), which is celebrated on Tishri 22 (in the Diaspora also Tishri 23). None of the more distinctive Sukkoth observances apply to Shemini Atzeret; but Hallel, public reading from the Torah, yizkor (in many congregations), musaf, and a prayer for rain in the Holy Land are included in its liturgy. Simḥat Torah (Rejoicing of the Law) marks the annual completion of the cycle of public readings from the Torah. The festival originated shortly before the gaonic period (c. 600–1050 CE) in Babylon, where it was customary to conclude the public readings annually. In Palestine, where the public readings were concluded approximately every three years, Simḥat Torah was not celebrated annually until after the gaonic period. Israeli Jews celebrate Simḥat Torah and Shemini Atzeret on the same day; in the Diaspora, Simḥat Torah is celebrated on the second day of Shemini Atzeret. Its joyous celebrations bring the Sukkoth season to an appropriate close.

KEEP THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY'S SABBATH! HONOUR, WORSHIP, CELEBRATE and KEEP HIS SABBATH HIS WAY!

Love Each and Every Single One Of Y'all, Always, and God Bless Y'all,

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