#we are watching a woman bloom and flourish

[wildfloweronwheels]

We always think we know what Taylor Swift is up to but we never ever do. She’s the queen of surprises, secrets and pivoting. We never see it coming what she does next. Makes it so exciting to be a fan and so intriguing as someone who also makes art and creates and wants to build a life where that is the beating heart

[halucynator]

Hey babe! Absolutely adore your writing! Do you have any recs?

Thanks! And yes! I'm so glad you asked. There's a lot though so it's gonna be a bit long x

Theodore Nott

@cassiopeiasdaughter : an exceptional writer, their Theodore Nott fics based on midnight songs are the best! Wish them good luck on their uni exams and check out their awesome blog xx

Here are some of my personal favourites from their blog:

August: Theo asks you to be his fake-girlfriend but you understand the assignment a little too well.

Fearless: Based on the song fearless by Taylor Swift.

Maroon: A diary entry written during the War based on the song maroon by Taylor Swift.

Check out their other midnights collection entries!

@avalynlestrange: another great writer! one of the best angst writers on this platform in my opinion x they also write mattheo Riddle fics

These ones are my favourite:

@the0doreslover: in love with their Theo fics!

Foolish one: In which you know you’re being foolish in liking Draco but will you finally learn your lesson? Theodore certainly hopes you do.

In my head: In which Theodore Nott is the man of your dreams. Literally. Who is his?

My favourite one is Cooking class xx

Here are a few Theodore Nott fics from writers who's blogs aren't all about Theo xx

I think he knows: you had fancied the mysteriously quiet slytherin boy for as long as you could remember (since first year), and, quite frankly, your best friend was sick of you going on about it without ever making a move

Now, I did some digging and @dreamcubed writes about other hp characters as well based on songs by Taylor Swift! Their work is amazing so go check them out! Sorry for the late mention, I just checked and realised that they have like a blog that revolves around hp characters xx

Electric touch: a cute guy stumbles into the coffee shop you work at and it alters your brain chemistry.

I thought you knew:“i thought you knew?” “you thought i knew we were dating?” “yes!” “how would i know that, nott, you never told me.”

Want you: Based on the following prompts: Why do you always look at me like that?” “Like what?” “Like you… Want me.”  and "he doesn't even deserve to be breathing the same air as you"

Butterfly Love: Despite witnessing the death of his mother and being forced to grow under the watch of his Death Eater father, Theodore Nott is living proof that love and care bloom even in the most barren conditions. Maybe, they flourish even more.

Mattheo Riddle

@suugarbabe: their fics are absolutely magnificent. I recommend their saving grace series x the rest parts can be found on their blog x

These are some of my personal favourites:

Always: You & Theo have been best friends since year 1. Everyone things you and Theo are going to end up together but both of you like different people.

Drawings: based on prompts 'i never knew that about you...it's cute' and 'i can't believe I've never seen this side of you before'

Oblivious: contains smut Based on prompts "Are you really so oblivious?" And "Can I kill him now?"

@happilykrispypirate: another fabulous writer! Their mattheo angst fics are like the best x the mistake and don't touch her are my favourite xx

Some of my favourite mattheo fics are listed below x:

Black Quill: You never liked Umbridge, but who did? The woman was miserable and cruel. Her power in the school grew day after day.

Mattheo finds you crying alone: Imagine crying alone in the Astronomy Tower, hoping to escape everyone but Mattheo finds you

Torment : Reader is constantly bullied. Mattheo saves her from the bullies.

Everything and nothing: 1 2: where mattheo brings along a girl none of your group is fond of. Especially you. And the timing of it all is horrible.

Draco Malfoy

@talesofadragon: they have amazing fics and their fluff stories are the best! Check them out for Steve Rogers and Bucky Barnes fics as well if you're interested xx

These are my favourite Draco fics by them. Their Draco masterlist is here.

Even if it's dark: Summary: Despite being raised in a traditional pureblood household with an overly abusive father, Y/N Y/L/N teaches Draco that light can exist even in the darkest of places.

Mittens: When Draco is in a foul mood and unwilling to disclose his problems, Y/N resorts to her animagus form to get him to talk. 

@fallingforfictionalcharacterss: whenever I feel like I'm going to go back to my Draco phase I read their fics! Another really good angst writer x Their fics are so cool and I love them xx some of their fics I love:

Falling: Where you are falling for the one boy who is known to break every girl´s heart.

False friends and true love: Where you get into a fight with your best friend and she reveals your feelings for a certain boy in front of everybody.

Ruin your life: Why would you kiss out of all the people the boy you hate the most in this world?

@dreamingonfilm: another great writer! Their fluff fics are my favorite! These are some I love by them:

Pretending: in which you watch Draco as he falls out of love with you

Cramps: In which Draco takes care of you whilst you’re on your period.

Bruises: 1 2: After years of being bullied by Draco, you finally stand up for yourself. However, you left him with more than a bloodied cheek and a bruised jaw.

Some other fics that I love:

Amortentia: the rest parts can be found on that post. Summary: Pansy forces a secret out of you, and you’re strongly debating which curse/jinx to use on her.

Unforgivable: Where y/n gets poisoned because of draco's behaviour

Taylor Swift

This is random but if you want someone to talk to Taylor Swift about, check out @annaisabookworm. They're super sweet and supportive and their blog is about Taylor Swift xx I love their posts x

[hopepetal]

Boagem,,,,

Hi Bee applestruda I totally agree

––

Autumn came, and with it came a pleasant chill in the air and large, fluffy clouds carried by a lazy breeze. Leaves turning to fiery colours fell from the trees to the ground, adding a delightful crunch to the ambient sounds of travel. Five pairs of feet walked over the leafy path, one in particular stopping by a stand-out patch of purple-blue. Scarred hands gently plucked one of the late blooming lilacs, a grin lighting up dark green eyes as they examined the flower.

“Scar!” Impulse's voice, cheerful and hearty, called out. “You comin', man?”

Scar straightened up, eyes blowing wide open at how far away the others had gotten while he was picking flowers. “Hey! Guys, wait up!” He jogged up to the group before settling back into a casual pace. “I can't believe you were just gonna leave me like that!” he jokingly complained.

“We still can!” Grian chirped, “it's not too late!”

Scar stuck his tongue out at Grian, who made a face back. Scar huffed playfully at that, crossing his arms. “Well, if you're gonna be like that, I'm not gonna give you these flowers!” he teased, watching Grian's eyes widen.

“Give me those!” Grian squawked, trying to grab them from Scar's hand. Unfortunately for him, he was short and Scar was not, so the taller man simply held them above his head.

“Say pleeeease~!” Scar sang out, letting out his little breathy chuckle, a bouncy sound just as signature as his crooked smile.

Grian crossed his arms, glaring playfully up at Scar. “May I please have the flowers, Scar?” he asked, and Scar gracefully nodded.

“Here you are, my good man!” Scar exclaimed, handing the flowers to Grian with a flourish. Grian snatched the flowers and took a moment to admire them before tucking them behind his ear, nestling them carefully against the feathers of his ear wings.

Mumbo laughed, looking Grian up and down. “Looking great, G. Really adds some colour to your outfit,” he teased, and Grian smacked him with a wing.

Pearl turned around, already laughing. “Alright ladies, break it up. If we want to get these apples before fall is over, we gotta pick up the pace and stop it with the infighting.”

“I'm not going to listen to you!” Grian quipped, and Pearl picked an apple off the tree and threw it at his head. He dodged, of course, but she made her point well enough. “Okay, Pearl, void! No need to be so violent! Absolutely crazy, that woman,” he muttered playfully to Mumbo and Scar.

They made their way through the rows of apple trees before deciding on one. Pearl handed Impulse her bag before carefully climbing up into the tree, going higher and higher until she had practically disappeared into the leaves. “The best ones are at the top!” she called, upon hearing Impulse's confusion. “Right, Impy– catch!”

Impulse yelped as Pearl threw an apple down to him, just barely managing to catch it before placing it in the bag. “I don't know how I feel about being the catcher!” he called up to Pearl, “I feel like this is just an excuse to try and hit me in the face with apples!”

Pearl cackled, giving him no real answer as she threw another apple down for him to catch.

Meanwhile, Grian had decided to try and hop up onto Scar's shoulders in order to get the apples that were higher up. Of course, in his classic Grian style, he hadn't informed Scar of that decision beforehand, leading to the two almost falling over. Mumbo laughed at them as he picked his own apples by hand.

Impulse did, in fact, get hit in the face with an apple. Only once, though. Grian and Scar ended up eating more apples than they put in their bags. Mumbo's head sprout accidentally grew an apple that Scar dared Grian to take a bite out of, much to Mumbo's horror.

They ran into Tango and Jimmy on the tail end of their apple picking adventure, and of course Grian tried stealing an apple from Jimmy.

“Don't you dare!” Jimmy snapped, smacking Grian's hand away. “Tango worked so hard to get these for us!”

Tango squeaked, his tail flicking back and forth. “Hey man, I was just– I was just doin' my job, y'know? Climbing trees is fun, too. I don't do it often.”

Pearl gestured at Tango, looking at Impulse. “See? He gets me!”

Impulse rubbed the sore spot on his forehead where he had been beaned with an apple. “Yeah, well, Tango isn't dropping apples on Jimmy's face!”

Pearl snickered, her wings fluttering slightly. “That was an accident, Impulse!” she exclaimed, though the tone of her voice made it very clear that it had been on purpose. “And! And, I apologized!”

Impulse grinned. “Well, you're not forgiven.”

Tango sucked in a dramatic breath through his teeth. “Ooooh, that's rough. Impulse over here holds a grudge like no one else, y'know. He never forgets.”

“I'm still mad from the time you set my pants on fire,” Impulse grumbled.

“That was ten years ago–!”

Jimmy grabbed Tango's arm. “You did what?!”

“Ten years ago!” Tango yelped, and the whole group devolved into cackling laughter.

They said their goodbyes and went to go pay for their apples, and by popular demand, bought some fresh cider donuts as well. The group sat at one of the tables outside, happily munching away at their donuts and chatting about their most recent adventures.

It was a wonderful fall day. The first of many yet to come.

[staytinyville]

Stay Alive (42)

BTS poly!ot7 x Reader

Magical Creatures AU

Series Masterlist

Warnings: none

A/N NOT BETA. I am back to writing! I am crying. You have no idea how terrible this past two weeks was for me. I felt so out of place not writing but for some reason I couldn't find it in me to get back to it. I had lost literally all passion for it. So much happened that really didn't put me in the right state of mind. But I got back to it and found my passion again! So here is the long awaited Hobi chapter! I'm so excited to hear your thoughts on this one.

Hoseok lived in the same region your grandparents had. It was nice to take in the beautiful sights you were so familiar with. However, watching as creatures and different kinds of magical beasts mingle about. The flora and fauna were much different to your own home–it seemed like everything flourished a lot more. 

Taehyung had told you about how witches and faeries lived out in nature because it made them feel connected. As you held onto his hand, you smiled softly as his fingers weaved between the bushes and trees that covered the path they were taking. Your eyes widened as the foliage seemed to bloom and follow along with his hands. 

“Hoseok!” Someone shouted, moving along the path as they came upon a large cottage. 

You smiled to yourself, finally seeing the kind of house you had assumed this world would have. However, it was still large. You were sure the inside looked spectacular. 

You let go of Hoseok’s hand, allowing him to embrace his mother and another woman who was crying. 

“Oh, my baby boy!” His mother smiled, looking over his shoulder to find you. “This must be your mate.” She exclaimed walking over to you to give you a hug. “I’m so happy to finally meet you.”

She turned around to her son, smiling as he was being bullied by the other woman. She had him in a chokehold, laughing when he tried to pull at her with the grass that was growing exponentially. 

“I came home when mom called to tell us that you finally came back.” She smiled, patting Hoseok on the back. 

“All thanks to (Y/N).” Hobi smiled, reaching out for your hand. 

“We owe you so much.” Hoseok’s mother smiled softly, dropping her hand onto your shoulder. 

“It was nothing.” You smiled bashfully. 

“Nonsense!” Hoseok’s sister exclaimed. “Please, allow me to give you something in return.” She reached out to hold your hands. “Not only did you bring my brother back but you also brought his coven home. I'm sure their families would give you something as well.” She told you softly. 

“I don't know—” You tried to tell her it was alright but she just gave you a smile. 

“Let me give you a reading.” She stopped you.

“A reading?” Your eyebrows furrowed, looking over at Hobi. 

“Jiwoo is a master at reading people.” He explained. “Witches clairsenses are a lot stronger than anyone else. We can predict futures, see the dead, see what haunts you. It's part of our abilities.” He told you. 

You grew interested, being reminded about how Taehyung had explained his abilities to you. He did tell you that you could find out what Hobi was capable of if you asked him. You assumed readings were part of the things witches could do that faeries couldn’t. 

“Taehyung can't do that then?” You questioned. 

“No.” Hobi answered. “Telepathy and mental manipulation is our thing. He can't do any of that.”

“Fairies have energy manipulation which is a very powerful thing.” Jiwoo told you. “However we have healing and can control the elements.”

You looked down to the grass, seeing that it had gone back to normal now that the siblings weren’t play fighting. You also remembered how the leaves and the trees followed after Hobi’s fingers as he passed them. You wondered what it was like to watch him play with fire or water. 

“That's so cool.” You breathed out. 

“Come.” Jiwoo quickly brought you into their home, the decor modernized as you guessed. “Sit!” She pushed you to sit at the dining table, moving a chair in front of you and taking your hands. “I already saw a lot the moment you walked in.”

You could feel something tingle at your fingertips, making you tilt your head. You suddenly felt something hovering over your shoulder. Hobi and his mother were standing behind Jiwoo, watching with curiosity. You wanted to turn your head and see what it was but Jiwoo stopped you before you could. 

“Oh.” You watched as Jiwoo’s eyebrows rose, making you glance up at Hobi. 

“I think the first thing I should say—you have a past with our world.” Jiwoo turned up to you. “Don't you?” She asked. 

“Yeah.” You sighed, thinking about your grandfather. “Apparently I do.”

Jiwoo nodded her head, smiling over your shoulder. “You have a protector too. They've been there since you were a little girl. Butterflies are what I see around you.” She explained, running her fingers along your palms just to get a sense of your energy. 

“Nabi.” Hobi spoke up. “It was a name you kept saying but didn't know where it came from.” 

“They're someone very important in your story. Both the past and this one.” Jiwoo nodded to herself, pausing as though she was listening to someone. “I'm positive they were the ones who led you to my brother and his coven.”

“You really think that?” You asked, eyes wide. 

“Of course.” Jiwoo hummed. 

You flinched just for a moment, hearing a childish giggle from behind you. Hobi and his family must have heard because they all looked over you, smiling softly. You turned around, frowning when you couldn’t find anything. It was clear that the Jung family could see things that you were not. 

“Now something I find extremely fascinating is the number 5.” You quickly furrowed your eyebrows, wondering what that would mean. 

“It keeps turning up–four and then two. They are different animals–different creatures.” This only served to make you more confused. If it was about the boys there was seven of them, not five. It made you worry, thinking something was going to happen. 

“I can't really tell what they are going to be but I know they have to do with the boys.” Jiwoo turned around, quickly pulling her brother to the table. “Hobi, come here.” She told him, making him place his hand over your own. 

“Ah!” Jiwoo gasped out, hands flying away from the two of you as though she had been burned. “I found it! Babies!” She jumped up, her face having elation as she turned to her mother.

“Babies?” You asked, still confused. You looked up at Hobi, watching as he seemed to have a frown on his face and looked beyond confused. 

Hobi was nowhere near as powerful when it came to his clairsense like his sister was. The most he knew was his mental abilities so watching how his sister made him take your hand brought things out of him. He saw the animals that seemed to scurry around. They were small things, indicating something childish and small. It was clear that Jiwoo knew exactly what they all meant by her screeching. 

“Eomma!” Jiwoo shouted. “Five grandbabies!”

“Five?” You whispered, wide eyed.

“Grandbabies?” Hoseok repeated. 

Hobi’s mother and sister took a moment to gush and talk about it–claiming that Hobi was going to be one of the babies' fathers. However you just kind of sat there with a wide eyed expression trying to go through the motions. 

It wasn’t that you didn’t want children, it had more to do with the question Taehyung had asked you when you had visited his family. If you were to have their kids did that mean you were going to stay with them? Was that your answer without you even reaching it on your own?

Later that night, Hobi had taken you to his room–showing off everything he could. You smiled softly when he showed you his elemental manipulation. He created ice sculptures for you, made the wind blow through your hair, and had a flicker of fire crackling at his palms. It served to entertain you for a while, keeping your mind off what had happened with his mother. 

But after she came to bid you both a goodnight, you were left awestruck once more at the happy expression the woman had on her face. You couldn’t know how she must have felt–spending ten years without her son only to come back and hear that he had finally found his forever and was going to make a family of his own. 

It must have been something that one would think hard on–especially because the one who was meant to be the mate to seven men was human and not from their world. 

“Five children.” You brought up, laying on Hobi’s chest. “Oh god.” You chuckled quietly. 

“Wow, wow, wow.” Hoseok sat up, bringing you along with him so he could look at you properly. “You're okay. You're fine.” He tried to tell you. “Let's not think about it at the moment, yeah?” He said softly. 

“How can I not?” You sighed. “Jiwoo told yoru mom it was going to be her grandchildren.” You smiled lightly, memorizing Hobi’s face. “Does that mean I'm going to have a family with you?” You whispered to him.

“Not everything is set in stone.” Hobi’s shoulders dropped thinking it wasn’t something you wanted. “You can always change your future.”

You furrowed your eyebrows, pulling a hand up to his cheek. “What if I don't want to?” You whispered.

His eyes went wide, looking at you incredulously. “You want—to start a family with me? With us?” He gasped, lip trembling as he thought about it. 

“I don't think we're there yet but, staying with you all has been on my mind.” You laughed lightly.

“Who told you?” Hobi pouted, knowing it had been one of the boys who brought it up to you. 

“Taehyung.” You giggled. 

“Such a boy.” He rolled his eyes. 

Taking a glance over your face, he smiled softly, moving to rub a thumb across your cheek. “Hey, I love you with everything in me. You have done so much for all of us that it's hard not to love you.” 

“But we want you to know that even if we do love you, it's not our choice to make.” He added softly.

“I love you, Hoseok. I love you all so much I don't think I'd want to be away from you.” You leaned forward, breathing against his lips. 

“We have to save everyone first. And then we can talk about our coven.” Hoseok told you. 

He leaned down capturing your lips in a kiss. 

And so you smiled at him, knowing exactly what you wanted to do now that you had heard it from them all. You weren’t going to leave them. It would hurt too much. So you knew that deep down this was your story alongside them.

Series Masterlist

@h3arteyes4mingi , @fangirling-all-the-way-tbh , @rinkud, @rln-byg , @singukieee ,  @hoshi-is-ult-bbg , @ldysmfrst , @juju-2275922 , @alienchickenpoop , @dreamerwasfound , @afangirl91 , @psiphidragon , @puppyminnnie , @shyloh-the-cornsnake , @ollyoxenfrees , @whynotlarene , @beeltsumu , @cryingpages , @milopenne , @belikejk , @thatonedemigodfromseoul , @woozixo,

[hqbaby]

(Same anon who talked about time skip)

SO LIKE….JUST SAYIN…..

Say the current situation in the series ends with Satoru and Tiger clearing the air; both hearts sore but what’s done is done-

(Meaning Satoru WANTS the idea or the past of Tiger; Not taking his time to mourn and throwing it on Kimi;;; But realizing hes stringing Kimi along and him and Kimi having a very honest discussion. Kimi and Satoru separating but genuinely having a fondness for one another. Like a soft spot that can bloom into more romantic tension or a genuine “This person was sharing a lot of difficult emotional vulnerabilities and I can’t imagine leaving them behind because of the bond we made.)

- And then with Sukuna; things are awry because it all started out as a fake relationship that grew into a real one. But Tiger recognizing that Sukuna also has his cross to carry (Parents probably had a fucked up situation like Tiger’s; Maybe that’s why they’re also so so close. They both understand it without having to fully explain each detail.).

Tiger and Sukuna have a genuinely good relationship for just a couple years; but that feeling of “We love each other but not romantically anymore; Something is missing” and both of them having a honest conversation about it. It hurts, but it’s so so honest and what they need. A romantic relationship between them both is never ever a regret; just a delightful thing while it lasted. (They both remain as friends, but a couple years later they have the vibe of uncle and aunt of different sides of the family who you KNOW had THAT type of relationship at one point but everything is platonic and dandy between them now).

Tiger going through a few years of being single; just having women as her best friends primarily;;; to focus on herself emotionally, mentally, bodily. To be selfish with herself, to not get caught up in a cute boy and genuinely enjoying single hood. To be a young flourishing woman who doesn’t have to worry about a past, just the future.

Then along came Kento 7 years after senior year of college; Both 28/29 years old. Kento and Tiger talking shit on their shitty bosses and irritating coworkers with sharp tongues and crooked smiles.

Tiger listening to Kento and asking him genuine questions about what does he want out of his career? What are his passions? He loves to cook and try foods. Oooo how cute.

Kenton’s ears turning pink when Tiger mentions “You know, you’d do great as a YouTube foodie reviewer AND a home cook. You’re handsome and got a comforting voice. I’d definitely watch all the time.”

Kento listening to Tiger complain about how some older coworkers are borderline harassing her about willingly being single. She’s getting to the age where it’s “hard to have kids” “Whose gonna take care of you when you’re old?” And Tiger saying she’s genuinely at peace being single; and if there was the right person who stumbled across her path and something grew naturally, she wouldn’t say no to that person.

She’s just not wanting to go into the hassle of finding someone, finding a connection, depending on how that relationship goes; it affecting her job (Her job probably being a Tennis Coach for young teens and kids// Giving private lessons to elderly wives wanting to gossip and get some exercise in) all the things.

Kento nodding along, “They should stop treating you like a ticking biological time bomb. Really, you’re a grown woman and can speak for yourself.” And Tiger sipping her drink hums in boisterous agreement. Kento adding on, “And, it sounds like they’re all projecting their fears or reality onto you. If I was that insecure about my future hospice situation or my balding husband, I’d say the same things too.” Cue tiger coughing on her drink choked up on laughter and shock.

Genuinely, Kento and Tiger give off old married couple vibes 😩 THIS IS MY MENTAL FIC FOR THEMMM

"If I was that insecure about my future hospice situation or my balding husband, I’d say the same things too"

ANON!!!! I AM RATTLING THE BARS OF MY ENCLOSURE!!!! the miu timeskip au is thriving!!! kento and reader really would be so cute together. i totally see miu as a prelude to a nanami series (almost like a past enemies to friends to lovers kinda situation) 😩

i'm afraid i do not have braincells to let this come to fruition, but i'm so happy it's growing in your mind babe 😭 it's honestly a trend for me to have my reader inserts have relationships completely outside the main relationships that could work so well that people end up shipping it. i am yet to put a stop to this tendency lmao

i love the kento love and i appreciate you soooo much anon <3

[zapreportsblog]

↱ my mother : the successful business woman ↰

➘ summary : In this story we see how Izuku grows up in the hands of a successful business women, watch as his mother becomes his hero, the hardships they face as a family and how Izuku gains new friends and siblings to come

➘ a/n : there’s now a masterlist for this story

➘ Chapter 3: The Gift of Education

O N L Y   T H E   B E S T   F O R   I Z U K U :

Monday morning arrived, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in Izuku's life. It was time for him to embark on his educational journey, but instead of attending a regular school, his adoptive mother, (y/n), had arranged for the top homeschooling teachers to come to their home. The grand study room was prepared with everything he needed to learn and grow.

As the clock struck nine, the first teacher arrived, a renowned scholar with a kind demeanor. He greeted Izuku with a warm smile, and they delved into the world of mathematics, science, and literature. The lessons were engaging and tailored to Izuku's interests, making him feel eager to learn more.

Throughout the day, more teachers followed, each an expert in their respective fields. The history teacher spoke of legendary heroes and their feats, inspiring Izuku to dream even bigger. The art teacher nurtured his creativity, guiding him to express his thoughts through sketches and paintings. The hero studies teacher delved into the characteristics of true heroes, instilling valuable life lessons within him.

As the lessons concluded for the day, Izuku was filled with a sense of wonder. The knowledge he had gained felt like seeds planted in the garden of his mind, ready to bloom and flourish with every passing day.

In the afternoon, after his last lesson, Izuku found himself sitting with (y/n) in the living room, enjoying a cup of hot cocoa. He looked up at her, feeling a profound sense of gratitude in his heart.

"Mama, why do you do all these things for me?" he asked, his eyes brimming with curiosity. "You don't have to arrange for the top teachers to come to our house. You already do so much for me."

(Y/n) placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, her eyes filled with warmth. "Izuku, you are my greatest treasure," she said softly. "You deserve the top educational experience because you are capable of achieving greatness. You have a heart of gold, and your dreams of becoming a hero are worth pursuing with the best guidance."

She smiled, and her words wrapped around him like a protective embrace. "You see, being a hero is not just about having powers; it's about having a strong mind and a compassionate heart. By giving you the best education, I hope to nurture those qualities in you."

Izuku was in awe of her wisdom and love. Her words resonated within him, reaffirming his belief in himself and his dreams. He had found not only a mother but also a mentor, someone who believed in him unconditionally.

"But mama," he said earnestly, "I'm not special like All Might or the other heroes."

(Y/n's smile never wavered as she gently cupped his face in her hands. "Izuku, you are special in your own unique way," she said. "You may not have a quirk, but your heart is a quirk all on its own. Your determination, your kindness, and your resilience are what make you extraordinary."

"You're right," he replied, his voice filled with determination. "I won't let not having a quirk stop me from becoming a hero. I'll work hard, just like you do for me every day."

(Y/n's eyes shimmered with pride as she hugged him tightly. "I know you will, my dear. And I'll be right here, cheering you on every step of the way."

From that moment on, Izuku's desire to become a hero burned even brighter. His mama's unwavering support and the gift of the best education filled him with determination to chase his dreams with all his heart.

As he prepared to face the challenges ahead, he knew that he was not alone. With his mama's love and guidance, he felt invincible. He was ready to take on the world and prove that heroes came in all shapes and sizes, and they could be born not only from powers but from love, courage, and the belief in oneself. And as the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Izuku would grow, not only in knowledge and strength but also in the profound love he had for his mama, who had given him the greatest gift a child could ever receive—the gift of education and the belief that he could be a hero in his own right.

༶•┈┈୨♡୧┈┈•༶

As the afternoon sun painted the sky in hues of orange and gold, (y/n) decided to surprise Izuku with some quality time together outside of their usual routine. (Y/n) called the gym teacher, explaining that she'd be taking Izuku out for a treat, and the teacher happily agreed, looking forward to seeing them both the next day.

They stepped out of the house, hand in hand, ready for their little adventure. (Y/n) noticed that Izuku's eyes sparkled with excitement, and she couldn't help but smile at his enthusiasm.

"Where are we going, mama?" he asked, curiosity evident in his voice.

"It's a surprise, my little hero," (y/n) replied playfully. "But first, let's get some limited edition items of all your favorite heroes!"

Eagerly, they explored the stores, finding action figures, comic books, and posters featuring the heroes Izuku admired. He felt like he was in hero heaven, and his heart swelled with gratitude for his mama's thoughtful gesture.

However, as they were browsing, fate had an unexpected encounter in store for them. Among the aisles, Izuku spotted some familiar faces—his old classmates from before he was adopted. His heart skipped a beat, and he couldn't help but feel a pang of insecurity.

His classmates, recognizing him, approached with smirks on their faces. "Well, well, if it isn't the quirkless loser," one of them taunted.

"Yeah, what are you doing here? You think buying all this stuff will make you a hero?" another jeered.

Izuku's insecurities resurfaced, and he found himself feeling small and inadequate. But before he could respond, (y/n) appeared behind him, her presence commanding and protective.

"Leave him alone," she said in a tone that brooked no argument. "You have no right to mock him or anyone else."

His classmates, intimidated by (y/n)'s stern expression, quickly retreated, muttering apologies as they scurried away.

Turning to face Izuku, (y/n) softened her gaze. "Izuku, don't let their words get to you," she said gently. "You are not defined by whether or not you have a quirk. You have the heart of a true hero, and that's what matters."

Izuku looked at her, tears welling in his eyes. "But mama, they kept saying I'm quirkless, and that makes me weak."

(Y/n) knelt down to his level, her eyes filled with love and understanding. "Guess what, Izuku," she said softly. "Mama doesn't have a quirk either. Do you think that makes me a loser?"

"No, mama," Izuku replied, shaking his head. "You're the bestest, most greatest mama in the world!"

"And that's how I feel about you, Izuku," she said, wiping away his tears. "You are the most courageous, determined, and kind-hearted boy I know, and I'm proud to call you my son."

With her words, Izuku's heart swelled with happiness, and he couldn't hold back the tears of joy any longer. He jumped into her arms, feeling safe and loved in her embrace.

They continued their day, going to get ice cream at his favorite parlor. As they sat together, enjoying their treats, Izuku felt a sense of warmth and belonging that he had never experienced before. With (y/n) by his side, he knew that he could overcome any challenge, and his dreams of becoming a hero felt more attainable than ever.

In the arms of his loving mama, Izuku knew that he was not alone in his journey. He had a true hero by his side, someone who saw his worth beyond any quirk or power. With her support, he knew he could be the hero he had always dreamed of—one who would save others not only with strength but with love and compassion. And as the sun set on that memorable day, Izuku felt like the luckiest boy in the world, grateful for the gift of a mama who had filled his life with love, guidance, and the belief that he was capable of being a hero in his own right.

[everystephoftheway]

#12 for vaxleth!!!!!!!!

~ TRUST-BUILDING ~ FOUND FAMILY PROMPTS 12. What that be okay with you?

“Would you be okay with that?” 

The question rings in Vax’s ears, Keyleth’s gently breaking, nervous voice reverberating like he had just been knocked in the head. They both stand in the center square of Whitestone, surrounded by a busy town clearing the dust of the revolution, and yet it feels like they’re alone the way their eyes stay locked on each other. 

“I meant what I said the other day.” Just a minute prior, Vax let his heart slip off his tongue. He can see their future in his mind- the two of them hand in hand, traveling the realm with Vox Machina, in love. Happy. She completes her Aramente and their traveling transitions into stability in Zephra. He remains in lockstep at her side as she flourishes into the woman he can already see blooming, a leader, and, if he’s ever so lucky, his wife. The mother of their children. His heart briefly lands in her hands before it is dropped onto the ground.

“But we have responsibilities. To the realm, to my Aramente. I…I just can’t. I’m sorry.”

Vax’s expression remains as neutral as he can force it, only a hint of a twitch in his brow. He offers her a soft smile, but the selfish part of himself wants to tell her to forget everything she just said. They just nearly died, several times over in fact, fighting a vampire and his crazy wizard wife, winning a freaking revolution; the least she could take for herself–truly, the least–was him. 

“No,” he finds himself saying, doing his best to keep his voice confident, like he believes what he is saying. As much as his heart is hurting, beating lonely on the ground at her feet, he is not willing to strike her back. “No, you’re right. I…am…going to walk away.” 

The turn is slow, shoes crunching against the cobblestone underneath them as he starts to leave her, his heart.

“I don’t want to stop being friends!” Her voice rings out, a certain sharpness of nerves behind it. 

Vax looks back at her, and her arm is extended out toward him, reaching. He can see his heart in her palm, dusty and bruised, still beating. “You know, just because I can’t…we’re not…I don’t want to stop being friends with you. Would you be okay with that?” 

Vax shakes his head to get the repetition to stop, and he swallows a ball of spit into his unbelievably dry throat. Again he offers her a soft smile, and he takes his heart from her hand. “Of course I’d be okay with that.” 

And, in truth, he is. He will be okay with whatever keeps her close. If she is not ready, he will wait. He will be her friend. He will be her teammate. And if she is never ready he will still be those things, because, despite what just happened, his heart will never return to his chest. It remains outstretched, hoping, waiting for her to take it.

Her smile is a salve and a gut punch, and she nods. “Okay.”

He nods back. “Okay…I’m going to actually walk away now.

“Okay. Yeah. Go…Okay.” 

Vax does as he says, turning and walking toward something to do, something to distract himself, but what he can’t see is how she watches him walk away, her heart outstretched, hoping, waiting for the right time to go to him.

[i94so]

. . . ✿﹐standing at just 165 centimeters tall, this starlet will remind you of chaos, beauty, and everything found in between followed by the smell of rosewater, fresh vanilla, and dark cherries, & the feeling of curling into bed after a long day.

✿　⸻   TAPE ONE : IN BLOOM ! 

BIRTH NAME.   lee so hee STAGE NAME / KNOWN ALIAS.  han so hee NICKNAME(S).  —

DATE OF BIRTH.   november 18, 1994 AGE.   twenty-nine ( 29 ) PLACE OF BIRTH.   ulsan, south korea  ZODAIC.   sun in scorpio, moon in taurus, rising in aquarius

GENDER  +  PRONOUNS.   cis woman + she/her

RELATIONSHIP STATUS.   single CRUSH / LOVE INTEREST.   lee taemin of shinee ROMANTIC ORIENTATION.   demiromantic SEXUAL ORIENTATION. pansexual

PIERCINGS  +  TATTOOS. there have been moments where she had multiple face piercings, but after trying them, she removed them. instead, she just has standard ear lobe piercings. most of her tattoos were removed for her career, but so hee has two that fans can occasionally see ( on her right side and a floral one on her waist ) while others are still hidden from view.

MAIN OCCUPATION. actress, model

LANGUAGES. korean ( native ) + english ( basic )

PERSONALITY. traits quirks habits curious. indecisive. playful. kind. worrisome ( about those she cares about ). anxious ( at times ). cautious in trusting others. very expressive, even outside of work. passionate. determined. loyal. a bit secretive. calm, but bright. stubborn. meticulous. reserved around people she isn’t close with, but is still polite. creative. spontaneous. independent. open-minded. can come across as cold or aloof at times.

LIKES. blackpink ( her favorite member is jennie ). comfortable clothing. dresses ( because they're easy to put on ) or workout attire. loves to hear : "let's meet again!" / "let's meet again soon!" the color black. ramyeon ( it's her favorite food ). loves all animals ( she does not have a favorite ). rock / indie / alternative music. films, especially noir ones. art. spongebob. going on walks. journaling / art diary. reading. cozy nights in with friends. watching mukbangs, especially dessert ones. still water. mint chocolate. mike wazowski. learning / playing the piano. spring ( her favorite season because it's warm in the day and cold at night. she gets too hot quickly and gets too cold easily, it rules out summer and winter. the fall makes her feel lonely ).

FAMILY.   father ( estranged ), mother ( estranged ), grandmother ( extremely close )

✿　⸻   TAPE TWO : SHE BLOSSOMS ! 

when planning for a trip, she prefers to improvise — date, place, food; it all depends on the mood.

formerly an infp but is currently an enfp. though, she thinks that she is a combination of both.

so hee has two cats, a white one named hammer and a grey one named marsh-ie.

she is a sensitive sleeper and often has to spray an aroma that comforts her to sleep.

prefers to go out than stay in; she considers herself a busybody, even if it means doing things independently. the only time she likes to stay in is if she's been super busy. then, she prefers to stay home and watch things or read.

her art journey started with fashion design, later to details in art, before fine arts until she switched focus to becoming an actress.

she is not afraid to admit that she's a bad dancer, and would even prefer being a good dancer over being a good singer.

so hee isn’t one to approach people first, she would rather they come to her.

her habit when taking a photo is doing the 'toothache pose'.

✿　⸻   MIXTAPE : WE FLOURISHED ! 

below are all of so hee's connections within seouless. disclaimer : if you're unhappy with a description, please let me know. this will be kept up to date as time passes.

✶ seokjin of bts ⸻ ex

prior to him, so hee had been in a string of casual relationships, nothing that ever meant too much. she had been too focused on making ends meet to working her hardest for her dreams to come true for something so serious. things changed when meeting seokjin — her first true love and serious relationship. it was serious for her to the point where so hee felt that he really was the one. the two breaking up was out of love, for the sake of their happiness. it was a tragic, bittersweet ending to something that was once so beautiful. it inevitably changed how she guarded her heart and decisions she isn’t necessarily proud of.

they are on good terms and so hee no longer has a romantic attraction or interest in seokjin; just fondness and a constant wish for him to be happy.

✶ jungkook of bts ⸻ family / younger brother

with so much in common, it isn’t surprising to anyone around them on how well these two meshed and simply clicked together. jungkook is one of the very few people that so hee truly allows herself to be free around, more than usual. she barely keeps secrets from him, though, so hee would not be able to tell you if she has any secrets from him. jungkook is someone she feels safe with, that she can trust, and the feeling seems to be mutual. so hee would do anything to make sure he’s happy.

✶ taemin of shinee ⸻ love interest / crush

despite being deeply attracted to one another and the two of them knowing it, something always prevents it from happening. one thing is for sure : when things begin to get serious between the two, so hee, more often than not, tends to back away. perhaps so hee is too afraid to get into another relationship for fear of getting hurt again or maybe it's taemin's imprudent actions at times. reviving their friendship after losing contact, who's to say if so hee will finally let him in in the end?

✶ wooyoung of ateez ⸻ family / younger brother

everyone needs a support system, someone they can turn to when things are too much. and well, that’s who so hee is for wooyoung. no matter the time of day or night, all it takes is a simple message and she’s there. in trade, so hee has recognized him as a younger sibling — leaving him subject to her worrisome messages to make sure he’s doing okay and taking care of himself.

✶ johnny of nct ⸻ old flame / confidant

acquaintances that crossed over into friends with benefits at one time or another, with the condition of no strings attached. it was a time after johnny’s break up with joy — things never go to plan, especially not this. with him wanting to make things official, so hee ended things out of fear of just being nothing but a rebound. unbeknownst to her, this led to johnny having the reputation he’s given himself now. after losing contact, seeing each other once so much time has passed makes the past they once shared feel like ancient history. seems that the two of them have crossed paths at the right time.

✶ danielle of newjeans ⸻ new friends / younger sister

though their friendship is still fresh, so hee cares for danielle like she’s the younger sister she’s never had. so hee does her best to help navigate her through the new found journey of dizzying fame and the industry itself. in the end, so hee has a little habit of doting on danielle, too.

✶ casual friends ⸻ jinyoung of got7.

✿　⸻   pinterest. musing tag. visage tag. wanted connections.

[silveringofrose]

Dear Jamie,

I've often marvelled at how stories are much like plants; they need the right time, the right place, and the right care to truly come to life. As I pen this letter, I want to give you the gift of our story as I've lived it, loved it, and cherished it.

That first day at Bly, amidst the sprawling manor and its winding mysteries. It felt like I was lost in a world far removed from my own. An American, away from everything familiar, facing two enigmatic children and their haunted home.

It was a whirlwind of strangeness until I saw you. You were, without a doubt, the first real breath of home I felt there. Which is strange considering you are the most British woman I've ever met. And yet, there you were. Making me feel like I was finally home.

We met properly in the garden, didn't we? I was struggling to grasp the bizarreness around me, teetering on the edge of a panic attack. You, with your green fingers and that soothing voice, So calm and nonchalant like you weren't watching me drown in the storm raging through me. You just casually pulled me back with two simple words, "Alright, Poppins?"

And that was it.

You, Jamie, became my anchor at that moment. A stranger who offered me a lifeline with such a warm, kind smile, I couldn't help but hold on to it. With every passing day, I found solace in the mundane.

My constant battle with the English way of making tea always brought an amused sparkle to your eyes. I don't think I will ever quite get it right, but it's the memory of your laughter I hold dear.

The day you told me about the moonflowers, I saw another side of you. The gardener who cultivated beauty in the darkness, who understood life's fleeting moments and embraced them. You saw something precious in those transient blooms, and that's when I started seeing you - truly seeing you.

The woman whose strength was rooted in softness, whose heart held an expansive universe that nurtured everything it touched. Much like those moonflowers, Jamie, you blossomed all uninvited and quietly determined in the darkness that was my life in those days.

I think it was the stillness in your eyes, the quiet understanding that prompted me to share my ghosts with you. Edmund... he haunted my dreams, but you... you brought me back, time and again. You didn't shy away from the storm that raged within me. Instead; you became my harbour, your love my guiding light.

Our first kiss, remember? It was awkward, clumsy, so perfectly imperfect. But then came the second one. Oh, Jamie, that one was magic. Every time I close my eyes, I can still feel the softness of your lips, the tenderness in your touch, the promise of an eternity in that one moment.

When we left Bly, it felt as if we were venturing into a new world. It was a whole new country for you, and for me it was a whole new life. Yet, there was an inexplicable comfort in knowing that we were stepping into it together. The sight of you in America, grappling with the nuances of this strange new land was endearing.

It was like watching a bud gradually bloom, adjusting and adapting, resilient and unyielding, just like the plants you so lovingly nurtured. And our little plant shop, that was our dream come to life, wasn't it? A sanctuary in the midst of life's whirlwind, a place where our love, much like the plants around us, took root and flourished.

Becoming your wife, that was the beginning of the best part of my life. It wasn't just about a ring or a piece of paper; it was a promise, a vow to love and cherish you always. To share in your joys and your sorrows, your victories and your struggles. Our marriage, Jamie, is more than a testament to our love—it's a celebration of it.

The sight of Miles and Flora, living their lives freely, unburdened by the shadows of Bly, brings a sense of bittersweet peace. We had a part in that, didn't we? We gave them a chance to escape, to live. Their happiness, their freedom, is a testament to our shared journey at Bly, a poignant reminder of the sacrifice made, and the love we found.

So, Jamie, as you read this letter, remember the story it tells. Remember our story. The shared sunrises and the moonlit talks, the laughter over morning tea, and the silent moments of shared understanding. Remember the way we danced around our feelings until we found the courage to confront them. Remember our journey, Jamie, remember our love.

In you, Jamie, I found my home, my solace, my heart. You taught me the beauty of living, of letting go of the past and embracing the present. You helped me see the world through a different lens, one that held beauty even in the darkest corners. You, Jamie, are my moonflower.

As I pen these final words, I want you to know that no matter where life takes us, no matter what roads we travel, I will always carry you with me. You will forever be a part of me, a part of my story, a part of my heart.

And remember, Jamie, even though we may not be always in the same place, our love will endure. For it is not bound by time or distance, but held together by memories, by moments, by a bond that defies the ordinary. Our love is our story, Jamie, and it's a story I wouldn't change for the world.

So this is not goodbye, although it might seem like it is by the time you read it. This is my promise that you will never be alone. That I am not gone. This is my I'll be waiting, and soon.

With all the love in my heart, always,

Dani

[tarotlogy]

The Empress (III)

KEYWORDS

Mother, Mothering, Mother Earth, Woman, Feminine Archetype, Womanly, Domestic Goddess, Natural, Creativity, Productivity, Growth, Fruitfulness, Manifestation, Smooth Passage, No Obstacles, The Right Path, Cultivating, Incubating, Abundance, Bountifulness, Plenty, Flourishing, Prosperity, Provisions, Good Housekeeping, Resourceful, Hostess, Love, Heartfelt, Unconditional Love, Being Loved & Cared For, Emotional Security, Protective, Openness, Idealistic, Freedom of Expression, Reassuring, Generosity, Sharing, Harmony, Peace, Caring, Nurturing, Cherishing, Compassion, Tenderness, Fertility, Pregnancy, Gestation, Birthing, Affection, The Physical Senses, Health, Exercise, Outside Activities, Positive Self-Image, Pleasure, Beauty, Joy, Laughter, Play, Joie de Vivre, Energetic, Passion, Sensuality, Sexuality, Physical Touch, Demonstrative Love, Marriage, Pampering, ‘Me Time’, Preening, Indulgence, Luxury, Opulence, Glamour, Wealth, Riches, Extravagance,  Summer, Blooming, Nature, Nature’s Way, Gardening, Earthy, Countryside, Flower Power, Home Decorating, Animals, The Environment, Talented, Creative/Artistic, The Arts, Theatre, Crafts, Music, Dancing, Children, Working With Children, Natural Witch

Astrological Associations –  Venus – Love, Beauty, Harmony and Natural Forces – also the symbol for Woman. Earth.

Sun Sign – Libra along with the Queen of Pentacles.  One of the karmic lessons for Librans is to take love from the idealistic stage in the mind and out into real world so that it can be shared and enjoyed. Venus also rules the Earth Sign, Taurus.

Kabbalistic Tree of Life – Walks the 14th Path between Chokmah (SupernalFather/Wisdom)  and Binah  (Supernal Mother/Understanding).  The Empress joins or connects these two powerful forces thus facilitating union between the Masculine and Feminine Forces. The Empress now acts as the catalyst and facilitator of physical creation. The High Priestess and The Empress represent the two Feminine Archetypes in the Tarot .

Hebrew Alphabet – Daleth – Door/Transition

The Empress is also linked to the Four Threes in The Minor Arcana  and to The Hanged Man XII(1+2=3), and The World XXI (2+1=3).

The Fool, now gifted with both Conscious and Unconscious Awareness is ready to incarnate into the physical.  He eagerly awaits the manifestation which will allow him to set forth on the next stage of his journey.  As he travels the 14th path, he encounters The Empress, The Mother who will facilitate this process.  Just as he will come to rely on The High Priestess  throughout his whole journey, it is The Empress who will first make the most impact.  It is through The Empress that he will be brought into physical life. The Empress will nurture and care for him in the early stages when he is unable to fend for himself.  She will shower him with love and awaken his physical senses.  She will introduce him to the magic of the natural world around him and will encourage him to experience joy, fun and freedom of expression. It is through The Empress as his Mother that he will first experience true love.  The love a mother has for her child and the love that is likewise returned is like no other love.  The Empress’s influence over The Fool will determine how he relates to and treats women in later life.  If The Fool is female then The Empress teaches the daughter the true meaning of being a woman.

The Empress as the Maternal Mother carefully watches her creation grow and develop until the time comes for him to stand on his own two feet.   Like all Mothers, The Empress may find the letting go of her creation hard to deal with and in her negative aspect can become possessive, smothering, controlling and manipulative.

CARD DESCRIPTION & SPIRITUAL MESSAGES

The Empress reclines upon a seat strewn with an assortment of cushions covered in rich red, orange and gold luxurious fabrics.  Here we get a strong sense of the comfort, relaxation, opulence and sumptuousness that accompany this Earth Goddess.  A three-tiered crown of 12 dazzling stars adorns her head.  The triple crown is symbolic of the Triple Goddess –  Maiden, Mother and Crone. The 12 stars represent the 12 Sun Signs of the Zodiac.  In The Empress’s role as Mother Nature she understands the cycle of all life. She understands that to fully experience life we must experience it from all aspects.  We must be open and ready to accept all; joy, love, happiness, pain, loss and sadness.

As the Maiden, The Empress is young, healthy and most importantly, fertile – she is in the Spring-time of her life.  As the Mother, she is the nurturer and carer of both the new life which incubates within her and also when birthed – she is thus in the Summer-time of her life.  As the Crone, she is the wise woman with much experience who both the Maiden and Mother turn to for advice.  The Crone also brings us death and the end of the cycle – she is now in the Winter-time of her life.   Therefore The Empress reminds us that just like the leaves on the trees behind her and the wheat at her feet are now ripe and in full bloom, they were once just buds or seedlings, and in time they, like all her creations will also wither and die, for this is nature’s way of things.  It is the natural progression of all life and creation and therefore should be accepted.  She reminds us that there is a time to be born, to be young and carefree.  There is a time to grow up, mature and accept responsibility.  Alas, there is also a time to grow old, let go and eventually die.  The Empress’s appearance heralds the summer time in life; a time of growth, creativity, abundance and prosperity.

The Empress in her role as Mother Nature gives birth to all creation and lovingly nurtures and cares for it.  However, she is also responsible for its death.  Both her crown and card number reflect this aspect.  She encourages you to accept all your feelings and deny none of them.  She enjoys each stage of her life and is aware of her connection to the cycle of all creation.  What is born will eventually die and therefore we must enjoy and make the most of every day that we have.  The Empress also understands the order of the Universe and when her time comes to be the Crone it will not be long before she will be reborn once more and become the Maiden again.   She reminds us that it is by embracing all aspects and stages of our life that we will find true happiness and self-knowledge.

In this card we meet Mother Nature, the Earth Goddess, in her Summer-time as the Mother aspect of the Triple Goddess when she is ripe, mature and bursting with life and growth.  Her senses are practically singing as The Empress perfectly reflects this aspect and revels in the joys of life with all her senses vibrating in response to her environment.  She likes to experience life in a very real and profound manner.  She is in-touch with herself, knows who she is and what she wants.

Beneath her seat rests a heart-shaped shield engraved with the symbol of Venus (circle and a downward pointing cross). Venus is the ruler of Libra and Taurus. This symbol also stands for love and is commonly associated as a representation of woman.  The Empress is very aware of herself and her femininity.  She is Woman through and through; soft and loving, yet strong and powerful.  Proud of her strong sexuality and extremely comfortable with her body she is aware of her deep beauty.  The Empress seeks pleasure in the physical. She uses all her senses to experience life on all levels. Passionate and Sensual, The Empress likes to take care of herself and her body and would suggest that you do too.  She indulges and pampers herself whenever she can because she knows she is worth it and is her god given right as a woman.

The Empress is no different than any other woman who likes to look well, shop for designer clothes, have her hair and nails done and visit the beauty salon. For her, every day is a special occasion and therefore she always makes the most of her appearance.  The Empress feels good when she knows she looks good.  She can often appear in a spread to remind the querant that they may need to pay more attention to themselves, their appearance, body or health.  She reminds the querant of how essential it is to put themself first from time to time as they too are important.  She can also appear in a relationship spread as a prompt for the querant to pamper their partner every now and then.

This Empress enjoys a wonderful healthy and regular sex-life.   Depending on her position in a reading she may highlight the possibility that the querant needs to get in touch with their femininity or sexuality as it may have been let slip over time.  She encourages intimacy within relationships with lots of touching, hugging, kissing, massages and lovemaking.  The Empress brings passion to any relationship.

As her ruling planet is Venus, the planet of love and beauty, The Empress expresses love through her heart.  She takes it from the idealistic stage in the head and brings it into the world through her words, actions and behaviour.  She finds joy in her everyday world and brings joy to all she comes in contact with.  She likes to live her life to the full but is also extremely happy and content with the simple things.  She derives great pleasure in just sitting in her garden on a sunny day watching her plants grow and listening to the birds sing while her children and animals play at her feet.  In fact, The Empress would fill her garden with her creations if she was allowed free rein; Children, animals, trees, plants and flowers would grow in abundance and with little control.

The Empress came into her own during the late 60’s and 70’s when ‘Free Love’ and ‘Flower Power’ became the way of life for many.  It was the Hippies who let her light shine brightly; the females unashamed of their bodies as they danced topless at festivals, wore flowers in their hair and painted love symbols on their face.  The males acknowledged the Goddess;  saw the power and beauty of woman, desired world peace and freedom for all.  They camped out in fields and forests and walked barefoot through the woods.  They viewed their carefree and abandoned attitude to sex as a beautiful natural act of love and intimacy between man and woman.  Many chose to live in communes where accommodation and chores were shared.  Together they grew their own food, reared sheep and goats and lived off the land.  Their offspring was allowed run wild and free and encouraged to express their creative and artistic sides.  Yes, The Empress was given free rein and in an ideal world why should that be a problem?  However, like any garden, growth can get out of control unless it is carefully managed.  When no rules or discipline are applied, chaos can quickly follow.  The Universe enforces the law of balance and polarity.  The Empress needs the influence of The Emperor to curb her natural enthusiasm and exert some practical influence on her behaviour.  He delivers the perfect masculine balance.  Together they can provide the stable environment in which The Fool can grow with a healthy understanding of love and responsibility.

The Empress wears a soft roomy billowing gown covered in numerous ripened pomegranates.  There is a pretty lace collar and a string of pearls around her neck.  In many Tarot  decks The Empress is often depicted in full pregnancy to symbolise her Mother and creative aspect.  Her gown in the Rider-Waite-Smith card would certainly be suitable attire for pregnancy and indeed we may assume that her fertile womb has filled it on many occasions.  In fact she may already be incubating her next creation so her presence may very well suggest pregnancy as she looks positively blooming, well-nourished and cared for.  Look for other pregnancy cards in the spread such as the 9 of Pentacles, Ace of Cups, 3 of Cups and any of the Pages.  The Empress represents Mother in all aspects and can suggest the influences of your mother, your own role or attitude to being a mother, how you care for your children and other family members.

The ripe pomegranates on her gown remind us of The High Priestess ’s veil when they were just seeds.  As seeds they represented abstract ideas, plans, dreams, thoughts, possibilities and potential.  Through The Empress, they have been given life and have manifested.  Through careful cultivation and nurturing they have grown and are now in full bloom.  The Empress has given birth as she does to all God’s creation, by first incubating them before bringing them into the physical.  The ripe pomegranates therefore suggest the maturing or development of plans or situation.  However, she does remind you that before any birth can occur, there is a gestation period to get through which calls for preparation and considerable patience.  Mother Nature cannot be forced or rushed and The Empress is happy to sit and wait for things to reach their natural conclusion.  During this incubation period, The Empress will look after her health on all levels so that she will be strong enough to look after her creation once it has been birthed.

In her right hand, The Empress holds aloft a golden sceptre which further acknowledges the power and force by which she rules over her domain.

In the background we see a forest of strong healthy trees in full leaf.  A river runs through the forestry before turning into a waterfall as it rushes along.  This river maintains the fresh supply of water that is needed to feed The Empress’s lush and bountiful surroundings.  Without water there would be no life and The Empress understands that without careful care and attendance her garden may wither and decay.  The waterfall reminds us of the sheer force of Mother Earth.  As Mother Earth, The Empress fully understands the power she has over her creations.  Water is life-giving but when it becomes a strong force, it can be dangerous and destructive.  Mother Earth is the giver of life, but in her dark or Crone aspect can as easily take it away.

The field of ripe golden wheat she sits beside further suggests an atmosphere of wonderful growth, nourishment and abundance.  The Empress also carries the number 3 which symbolically refers to creation, growth and plenty giving us further proof of the strong creative, prosperous and fertile aspects of this card.

The Empress‘s garden is rich and beautiful as she sits as the ruler or Goddess of this natural environment. The sky is clear, bright and sunny suggesting summer and happy harmonious times.  The Empress certainly brings a warm loving energy into a reading.  She is the very embodiment of Mother Earth, Mother Nature. Everything she touches grows and she is responsible for the continued growth and flourishing of every tree, flower, crop, blade of grass, stream, river and creature that exist within her environment.

The Empress is not concerned for that which she cannot experience with her senses so loves to surround herself with luxurious items, different textures, scents and sounds.  She epitomises the Domestic Goddess whose house is a joy of life, happiness, harmony, laughing children, loving partner, sumptuous cooking smells and oodles of creature comforts.

The Empress strongly rules over the arts.  She loves to sing, dance, act and use her hands to make wonderful things.  Not one to shun the limelight, The Empress is generous and shares her talents with all.  Her presence can highlight that the querant has strong creative or artistic abilities which need to be nurtured and showcased.  She suggests that you too have the ability to create that which you desire and that you must not let your natural talents go to waste.  Her energy will assist you bring out your creative side be it in art, writing, music or dance.  She is the creative life-force which brings all things to life.

DIVINATORY MEANING

When The Empress appears in your reading she heralds a period of growth, creativity, abundance and prosperity in your life.  She indicates that it is time to safely move plans or ideas forward to their next stage of development.  Her card number is three and three is the number of creativity, growth and ascension so any projects you are working on should be coming together quite nicely at this stage.  Things are naturally growing for you now so you should soon begin to see the results of all your hard work blossom and bloom.  Her presence reassures you that the road ahead at present is smooth and that you should not experience any setbacks or challenges.  You are on the right path when The Empress appears.  She can represent a time of great productivity and the eventual rewards for hard work, effort and patience.  She does remind you though that whatever you create must then be nurtured and cared for otherwise all your effort will be in vain.

The Empress is only concerned with what she can experience with all her senses, therefore she suggests that if you have any ideas or plans that you have been toying with then the time would be right to give birth to them by putting themout into the real world where they can be shared and experienced by all.  Her energy will help any fledgling business or project flourish and grow once you go about it in a down to earth and heartfelt manner.  She asks you to be happy in what you do as otherwise there is no point and all will fail.  When you enjoy and feel connected to your work or life, you feel strong, confident and able to take on the world.

Depending on her position in a reading, The Empress many indicate the incubation period of an idea, plan or project.  Like the gestation period of a pregnancy, you too may need to be patient and allow things to slowly grow or develop.  Certain situations cannot be forced so it is best to use this waiting period to perfectly form any plans or ideas before trying them out otherwise they may be too immature and vulnerable to survive.

The Empress encourages the growth and development of all things so lots should be happening around you.  In fact life may very well be taking off for you in a very pleasant direction. She suggests a happy period in life, especially on the domestic front with much activity, socialising and a strong sense of inner contentment.  You feel at one with the world and full of joy.  You can be very generous under The Empress’s influence as you share your love, time, energy and enthusiasm with all and sundry.  You may find yourself bouncing out of the bed in the morning eager to get on with the day as you throw back the curtains and race down the stairs. Feeling well, healthy, vibrant and full of positivity everything you are involved in is thriving and successful.  Any work you have to do will be a delight and you can achieve much with little effort.  The Empress brings that time into your life when it really feels good to be alive.

There is a strong sense of abundance and bountifulness about The Empress card.  She reassures you that there is enough for all which brings great stability and security.  She is generous and giving.  If you have been worried about finances The Empress suggests that you will be provided for and will have more than enough to go around.  She also asks you to use the resources you have at hand as Mother Earth can support you during times of shortage.

In her role as Domestic Goddess, The Empress brings harmony and stability into the home-front.  Family relationships are happy and thriving when she is around and there may be a lot of activity in and around the house.  The Home is very important to The Empress as she likes to spend much time in it surrounded by her family.  Here is the mother who is happy not only to fill her home with her offspring but also their friends too.  She can easily semi-rear neighbour’s children without ever realising it.

She may suggest that you are lovingly putting great effort into renovating or restoring your house, interior decorating or developing your garden.  The Empress has the ability to turn a house into a home.  She is a lover of beautiful luxurious things that reflect her femininity and excellent taste.  However, she shuns the idea of a show house feel to her home in favour of comfort and a style that will suit the whole family.  She desires a house that lives and breathes, allowing the personality of all its occupants to shine through.   The Empress is a natural hostess so her presence suggests you may be entertaining or socialising.  The home The Empress governs over is full of love, affection, laughter and chatter so she really is a welcome presence in any family reading.

The Empress cherishes all her creations and especially loves her children.  She is the archetypal natural mother who loves all her children unconditionally.  Her presence may indicate the desire for a child or even a large family.  Traditionally she represented pregnancy but this would need to be confirmed by the presence of other cards such as the 9 of Pentacles, Ace of Cups and any of the Pages.  She does suggest though that you may be in a very fertile period and that conception may occur very easily, so if you are not planning on getting pregnant extra precaution should be taken.

As the Tarot ’s Mother figure, The Empress suggests a harmonious and happy relationship with your mother.  She represents a very strong motherly female figure that is respected, cherished and loved by all.  She is a nurturer and carer to those around her and the type of woman you would turn to in times of trouble providing a shoulder to cry on and soothing words to heal.  The Empress appears and embraces us in a warm deep loving hug to reassure us that all will be okay and not to fret.  She epitomises the ideal mother who we would all love to be connected to.  She does have a tendency to fuss over her family though and will not take too kindly to those members who are unable to turn up at family occasions.  She can easily assume the role of ‘Head of The Family’ and be a real Matriarch.  There can be a tendency to run everything by Mother before a decision is made or the “what would Mother say?” attitude may apply.  Even the most loving and caring mothers can be overpowering, demanding and controlling with their offspring.

The Empress may suggest that you are looking at your own role as a mother and doing your best to live up to her standards or wish you could.  You may have no choice but to go out to work and leave your children with Carers or in a Crèche and The Empress’s presence may highlight your desire to be a stay-at-home Mom.  Look to the other cards around for verification.  If you are carrying your first child she may represent the role model you wish to aspire to as your own personal experience growing up may have been very different.  The Empress in a reading often highlights a message to or from a mother so pay extra attention when she appears.  You could always pull an extra card to open the message and give greater insight.

The Empress is mother to all so this indicates that you also have a duty to care for those in the wider community.  She asks you to be the peacekeeper and if you feel that someone is in need of care or attention then you should be generous and offer your support.  We all need to lean on each other from time to time.

Because, The Empress is the embodiment of Mother Earth, she is also responsible for those in the natural world.  She asks you to respect and care for the environment and all the creatures that reside within.  She reminds you that your duty does not just belong within the confines of your four walls.  Be kind to and love all animals, feed the birds, support a worthwhile animal charity, volunteer at a rescue centre or join a campaign to stop animal abuse.  Get actively involved in protecting the environment; recycle, go organic, conserve energy, be conscientious about what you pour into the ground and down the drain.

The Empress also asks you to get connected to the world around you by spending more time outside and being physically active.  If your garden has become overgrown, get out into it and sort it out.  Put a bit of time, effort and care into it.  Plant some bulbs, seeds, shrubs and trees and then enjoy watching them grow.  Cultivate a vegetable patch or herb garden and grow your own food.  Turn your garden into an outdoor room where all the family can relax and enjoy.  Spending more time in and around nature or in the countryside will re-energise and re-vitalise you. It will also keep you balanced and your feet firmly placed on the ground.

The Empress likes to look after herself so she may suggest that this is a time to listen to your body and to nourish it well.  If you haven’t been exercising then she suggests it is time to get some and no better place than the great outdoors.   She cannot believe you are missing out on so much by hanging around indoors all the time.  She reminds you that your body is a temple and it should be treated accordingly.  You may be spending time and money on your appearance, buying clothes and accessories or cosmetics and body treatments.   She encourages you to do so but not to over-indulge as then it becomes frivolous and a sign of an inner unhappiness.

When we have let ourselves get into a rut, become dowdy or dull The Empress whips us up into action.  She asks you to make an effort with your appearance.  Not for anyone else’s sake but your own.  She urges you to show some pride and reminds you of your womanly aspects and inner beauty.  She says, “look at me.  Yes, I have a husband, 6 children, a dog, two cats, a house to run and garden to maintain and therefore must dress practically the majority of the time.  However, I always make a point of tidying myself up at least at the weekends.  On these days, my normal leggings and track suit bottoms are banned or thrown in the wash.  Instead I deliberate over what I will wear and dress myself up a bit.  I pay extra attention to my hair and accessories.  I may even wear heels.  The Mom look goes temporarily on hold while the Woman underneath is let out to play and I feel great.  It keeps me balanced and in touch with all aspects of my personality.  My partner’s behaviour changes towards me too and he can become quite flirty with me like it was when we first met.  It is quite amusing and makes me feel like a young girl again.

I feel that all women should make time for themselves and not to forget to pay attention to their feminine side even if it is for just one hour a week.  I make time to get my hair done, paint my nails, buy something new or have lunch with friends.  I believe it is important to pamper myself regularly as it makes a huge difference to how I feel about myself and also helps my relationship with those around me.  Sometimes all I have time for is a long hot soak in the bath tub or to read a magazine before the kids come home from school.  When I have to multitask my ‘me time’ I take the dog out for a long walk on the beach rather than the local park.  This way, I get to have a mini outing while the dog gets exercised at the same time.

If you don’t make time for you, no one else will.  Remember, you are worth it.  Oh, and very importantly, I make time for my relationship with my partner.  We call it ‘our time’ when we connect with each other as man and woman and not as mother and father.  We make time for romance, affection, conversation, going out and making love.  This keeps our relationship passionate and alive.  It keeps our love strong and healthy and it makes us better parents too.  Do you feel that this is something that you need to do too?  Is it missing from your life?  When did you last feel like a real woman?  Access my energy to help you get your life going again”.

With all the information above it goes without saying that The Empress appearing in a love spread indicates that your relationship is maturing and developing nicely.  You may be taking it to the next stage or level by moving in together, getting engaged, married or deciding to start a family. Her presence in a relationship reading is very positive and comforting.  She can represent a powerful strong and vibrant woman in and around the querant who is exerting a positive influence.  Due to her love of passion and her strong sensuality a relationship under her influence will be full of demonstrative love, physical contact and a very healthy sex life.  Positive growth in a relationship takes place when The Empress is around. The Empress traditionally symbolised marriage.  Look for other cards in the spread to support this such as The Lovers, the Ace/Two/Three and Ten of Cups, Four of Wands, Heirophant, Justice etc

When it comes to career, The Empress must be employed in an area where she is happy and free to be herself.  A career that brings her into contact with children will be appealing.  She makes an excellent child carer who will indulge her charges with all kinds of exciting activities.  She is the Mary Poppins, Maria from The Sound of Music and Nanny McVeigh who makes everyday a delight of magic and fun for the children in her care.   She can be found running a fantastic Crèche or Montessori.  She makes an ideal nurse in a children’s hospital where she helps her patients to laugh and feel less lonely for their parents.

A keen gardener, The Empress can be found working in horticulture or garden nurseries.  She is attracted to organic farming and can cut out a fabulous career for herself as a florist.  Her deep love and respect for animals draws her to careers in rescue centres, animal boarding or stabling.  As The Empress, she understands and accepts death much better than most so emotionally she is strong enough to deal with abused or neglected animals.  It is The Empress who will calmly put to sleep and out of their misery a poor neglected or injured animal.  She does not like to see suffering so will not prolong an animal’s life when it is not in their best interest to do so. The Empress is also a strong environmentalist so will be naturally attracted to careers in this field.

The Empress is happiest when she is at home so would be even happier if she could work from it.  She is so creative and talented she could turn her hand to many successful home based careers.  She could start her own cottage garden and sell her products of vegetables, fruit and herbs at the local market.  She can easily develop her own personal range of natural skin and body care creams and soaps which she concocts and brews up at the kitchen sink and stove.  She can also sell her exquisite perseveres and home baking to local shops and cafes.

When it comes to crafts she can take her pick.  She can sew, design clothes, make pottery, write books and paint pictures.  She is the incredible stylish and creative milliner or wedding dress designer.

She can develop her natural singing voice and turn professional.  Naturally dramatic, she is a brilliant actress who can passionately stomp the boards in national or local theatre.  She moves to the vibrations of natural earth energies so can excel at all kinds of dance.

The Empress can enjoy a career as a holistic therapist, healer or herbalist.  She is the masseuse to die for and will have a long list of clientele. Her touch is pure magic.

Her presence in a reading often highlights the fact that the querant has creative talents that are not been utilised.  When natural creativity or artistic abilities are not expressed, an inner frustration and unhappiness occurs.  The querant should always be encouraged to explore their creative side when The Empress appears regardless of the nature of the reading.  She cannot over emphasise the importance of developing one’s full potential in relation to finding true happiness in life.  Take it from me, when pressed for honesty the querant will 99% of the time admit to having artistic or creative abilities that have either been left behind in college or dropped in favour of a partner or to have children.  The Empress strongly suggests that you get back to it.

Sometimes her presence can indicate the deep inner longing to pursue some artistic venture but there is a reluctance to vocalise it due to the reaction of those around.  For example, a querant has a very secure and profitable career in sales and marketing.  They are the main bread-winner in the family.  They have responsibilities and mortgages.  They are also looked upon by their proud families as the epitome of success.  In light of all the above how can they suddenly announce that they have made a mistake and all they want to do is make organic handmade herbal soap or beaded jewellery in the back bedroom.  There is a terrible inner dilemma.  How can they let everyone down?  How could the family survive without their full income? The Empress gives voice to these querants who often get extremely emotional when confronted with the possibility and also that they can at last speak of their dreams to someone who understands.

The Empress may also suggest a move to the countryside or the feminine side of a male querant needing expression.

THE EMPRESS – RELATIONSHIPS, LOVE & SEX INTERPRETATIONS

Disclaimer – (Important Information – Please Read Carefully)

The information provided below is not a definitive guide to relationships, love and sex. It is not to be used  in place of professional, medical or legal advice. If  you are having issues you should seek counselling or speak to your GP. The appearance of this card in your tarot spread does not automatically mean any one of these interpretations apply to you. The are used for study and exploration of cards, not for making sweeping judgments or for major decision making. The are based on theory, speculation and association, designed to promote debate and further analysis.  The cards are very subjective and no one card alone can suitably portray anyone’s life or personal circumstances. Neither can any reader, irrespective of how gifted they claim to be, accurately predict anyone’s future or the actions of third parties involved. Tarot cards should be read collectively and not separately, as better insight can be gained by observing connections and repetition between cards in a spread.

**Please Note I have given many interpretations related to pregnancy, both Upright and Reversed. Again, these are absolutely not intended for diagnosis, fertility issues, confirmation of a pregnancy, birth, miscarriage or termination. They are purely based on speculation and would need several supporting cards to to hold any weight.  Should you think you might be pregnant, you will need to take a pregnancy test or go to our GP, not the tarot.

At the end of the day, Tarot is meant as a form of entertainment only. Responsible individuals can derive great wisdom and guidance from them which promotes personal development and spiritual growth. The choice is yours. You are welcome to view the content at your own discretion and take responsibility for what you do thereafter with any knowledge gained from the study of it.

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General Divinatory Meanings – CLICK HERE

Mother Influence Meanings –  CLICK HERE and HERE

Motherhood/Pregnancy Meanings – CLICK HERE

Sex Meanings – CLICK HERE

How He/She Sees Me Meanings  – CLICK HERE

Yes/No Meanings – CLICK HERE

3 – Abundance, Growth, Progress, Ascension, Fertility, Creativity, Arts, Birth, Expression, Optimism, Joy, Socialising, Optimism

Planet – Venus – Love, Beauty, Peace, Harmony, Grace, Charm, Attraction, Relationships, Marriage, Sensual, Sensory, Sex, Seduction, Erotic, Desire, Pleasure, Luxury, Fashion, Arts, Crafts, Appreciation, Fertility, Woman, Feminine Principle, Finances, Possessions, Material Values.

Element – Earth

Rules –

Earth Sign Taurus – Sensual, Earthy, Loving, Affectionate, Stable, Security, Dependable, Loyal, Domesticated, Productive, Materialistic, Self-Indulgent, Possessive, Artistic, Musical,

Air Sign Libra – Harmony, Balance, Peaceful, Diplomatic, Kind,  Pleasing, Charming, Graceful, Hospitable, Refined, Beautiful, Attractive, Romantic, Artistic, Considerate, Fair, Companion, Communication, Idealistic

Emily Balivet – The Empress

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THE FEMININE PRINCIPAL – ACT TWO

The Empress is the second of two Feminine Principal Archetypes in Tarot, each showcasing a different aspect of the female state. She also holds the title of Mother Archetype. Whereas the High Priestess (Maiden Archetype) was quite abstract, elusive, passive and introvert, The Empress is full of life and vibrancy. She is solid and dependable, the very physical embodiment of womanhood. She commands a powerful presence, her energy radiating outward into her environment, touching and positively impacting everything in its path. She desires to feel, see, hear, taste, experience on a physical level, areas only privy to the High Priestess on the mental. She gets to do the things that are off limits to the High Priestess. The Empress fully engages in life and love. She carries the burning torch that breathes energetic life into the still and watchful High Priestess. The soul awakens, the spirit comes alive. The spiritual feminine principal of the High Priestess has found a host body in The Empress. She can now love with both her head and heart. An energy path has opened with love finding release through expression. The Empress is the living, breathing incarnation of woman who must go forth into the world and find her way. She will be guided by the High Priestess at all times if she maintains an open connection with her. It is important they do not try to act alone. Together they are formidable, together they are essential for correct alignment of the Feminine Principal and the powerful energy each possess. Without each other they are incomplete and will lack qualities in the relevant areas of life and interpersonal relationships governed by the missing aspect.

The Incidental Tarot – The Empress

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THE EMPRESS AND VENUS – PLANET OF LOVE

The Empress in Tarot is connected to Venus. Venus is the planet of love, fertility, peace, harmony, grace, charm, beauty and self-worth. It is also the planet for romance, sex, seduction, finances, luxury and the arts. Venus is the planet of attraction and relationships helping us form loving bonds or attachments to others. Because it also connects with the financially influenced and materialistic Taurus, it deals with the relationships we form with our possessions and where we place value.  Venus has dual rulership over the Earth Signs Libra and Taurus. Together with the Queen of Pentacles, The Empress can indicate the presence of either a Libra or Taurus personality. Venus is symbolised by a circle with downward pointing arrow. This is also the universally recognised symbol for woman. In a modern-day context, when we see this symbol, we acknowledge female power, girl power. Our mind casts back to the Hippy days of sexual liberation for women and free love. The Empress is a perfect representation of all the associated qualities of Venus. She manages to exude strong feminine power in the presence of natural beauty, harmony, peace and love. She does not sacrifice her femininity in favour of power and force. Her power is a natural one.

THE IMPORTANT WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE

The Rank of Empress is one of great status and position. When she is drawn in a love reading, she can represent the important woman in your life or your wife. The important woman may also be you mother, grandmother, sister or aunt. She plays a very central role and suggests a deep involvement. Your lives are intrinsically linked, and you share much with this woman. She is a key figure in your life. Indeed, so strong an influence is she, your life may revolve around her. She is the organiser of everything, the one who breathes life into all activities and events at home and in your relationship. She can be relied upon to continuously drive the relationship to even greater heights and kick it into gear when it falters or stumbles.

Bonfire Tarot – The Empress

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LOVE THYSELF BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO LOVE ANOTHER

The Empress is tolerant, forgiving and accepting. Her presence in a love reading may ask you to question how kind you are to yourself? How accepting are you of your own negatives? She wonders how much you love yourself, for this will tell a lot and influence all potential love matches. Having the ability to love yourself (not on a narcissist level), is vitally important in forming a loving relationship with another. It encourages us to set high standards, to distance ourselves from bad treatment and lack of respect. It prevents us from getting entangled in dysfunctional relationships, for we deserve better and can do better. Many of us run hither and tither, seeking love here and there, needing a partner to make us complete, only then to complain they do not love us enough, or do not make us feel special. We look to them to prop up our fragile self-esteem. We need them to make us feel good about ourselves because we cannot do it for ourselves. We crave constant validation of our worth, because we doubt we have any. The Empress thrives on compliments and affection, but she is sufficiently balanced within herself to understand her true worth and value. Her self-esteem is intact. She can sense and feel her power. When the Upright Empress seeks a partner or spouse, it is not to make her life, but purely to enhance it. She wants, would like a loving partner, or to be in a relationship, but does not need one to define her, make her feel worthy, special or a desirable woman. She has all those feelings herself with or without a partner. For those who are currently seeking love, The Empress asks you to reflect on these matters. You will only attract to you a personality that reflects how you truly feel about yourself. If you want to find happiness in a relationship with a loving and caring partner, you must first find happiness within. Then you will draw to you suitors who recognise and appreciate your worth. The only thing they will seek is to worship at your Goddess-like feet, ever-blessed for meeting someone like you.

HAPPY IN YOUR SKIN

The Empress wears the crown of the triple goddess. She is a representation of all feminine aspects; the maiden, the mother and crone. Her relaxed image is a reflection of how comfortable she is with all these stages. She understands the cyclical nature of her reign and is content to let life take its course. In this manner, she enjoys her time as maiden with all the accompanying potential and opportunity it brings. Now as mother, she happily lets go of her maiden status and relaxes into her new role. She does not struggle to hold onto both, but cherishes the memories of her youth. She has no regrets and adapts well to her new status. When her time as Crone arrives, she will not fight against it or struggle to hold onto her mother status, or attempt to return to the maiden. She accepts the ageing process as part of the natural progression of all things. The lines on her face and grey in her hair tell the story of her life. Of course, she will seek to maintain what she has, cover grey hair and moisturise skin, but not in a manner that borders on ridiculous. Like all of us, there will be a desire to turn back the clock and recapture her youthful look, but the Upright Empress will not obsess about it. You will not find her as mutton dressed as lamb for instance. She will be decorous as she ages but keen to accentuate all her positives attributes. Instead of panicking and attempting to mimic her maiden self through clothes or image, she manages to retain a youthful disposition through her positive and upbeat nature. She jokingly insists it was having children that put grey in her hair and lines on her face, but also what keep her young in mind and spirit. The Upright Empress looks gorgeous at all three stages of life. Her beauty radiates from deep within and keeps her forever young. In this manner, The Empress is not shallow. She will not abandon you for a younger model when you begin to show signs of wear and tear. She will expect the same from you.

LOOKING ABSOLUTELY FAB!

The Empress can turn up to let you know just how stunning looking you are right now. You are bound to be feeling good with yourself. You may have gone through a transformation or make-over that has really re-vamped your looks. There may be a new hairstyle and wardrobe shake-up. You are hot, hot, hot.

The Gilded Tarot – The Empress

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FABULOUSLY CURVACEOUS!

Yes, as a woman The Empress likes to look good. She may also be quite full-bodied or voluptuous as opposed to the High Priestess who tends to be less curvy, her body beaten into submission at her local gym, with carb count carefully monitored. In a love reading, her presence could suggest you are drawn to curvaceous women. The Empress views her body as a temple and generally likes her curves. Although they may take a bit of getting used to if they have been recently acquired. Because The Empress is associated with pregnancy, child birth and further procreation, her curves may have developed over time. At one stage she may have resembled the High Priestess, but pregnancy and childbirth have since changed her contours. She is all-woman. Sometimes The Empress needs to reassured of her continued beauty in her partner’s eyes, especially if she has just recently transitioned from maiden to mother stage. Her body may no longer conform to what it once was. Her clothes may no longer fit or suit. She may be at odds with herself and altered body. Being reminded of how gorgeous she is by her partner or spouse can help her adjust and accept.

YOU HAVE A LOT TO OFFER- LOVE IS OUT THERE

The Empress can act as a reminder that you have a lot to offer when she turns up in a love reading. You have so many wonderful qualities. Do not undersell yourself or throw your love away on someone who will not appreciate it. You have a lot going for you and even if you haven’t found love just yet, it is out there and will come. The Empress is love personified, and once she keeps her heart open in the spirit of giving and receiving, love will eventually find her. There will be a wonderful sense of finally coming home.

NO SHORTAGE OF ADMIRERS

The abundant nature of this card along with the genuine charm and warmth of the Empress herself, could imply lots of admirers. You are certainly not short of potential suitors and have your pick of the crop. Everyone loves you and wants to be close to you. You get on with everyone and like to put people at ease. People are drawn to you. Men marvel at you and women want to be like you. You really seem to have it sussed. The challenge is to separate the weeds from the healthy plants of potential. Not every admirer or suitor will be worthy of your attention.

Dame Darcy Mermaid – The Empress

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A NATURAL BEAUTY

In general, the person represented by the Empress is comfortable with her body. She possesses a deep beauty that radiates from inside out. Hers is a natural beauty that needs no embellishment or sculpting. The Empress will come in all shapes and sizes. Although she likes to maintain her body, her beauty and appeal have nothing to do with a toned body and flat stomach. On the contrary, the Empress’ body is often changed by the process of pregnancy and childbirth even if she does work out. She may have stretch marks, C-section scars, and less than pert boobs from breastfeeding. She is not afraid to own them for they are part of her and the story of her life. While the Perfect High Priestess may be aghast at the sight of the Empress with baby puke down her front and hair in bad need of a wash, the Empress will laugh it off and agree she looks a mess. She does not intentionally look a mess but understands that life is messy and children messier still. In her very important ‘me time’ she is not afraid to lavish attention on herself.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-CARE – BECAUSE YOU’RE WORTH IT!

The Empress appearing in a relationship or love reading suggests a feeling of deep contentment and being happy in your skin. You are in touch with yourself and your feelings. You know exactly what you want from a partner and are able to amply express this. As a woman you are very aware of your power and strength, yet equally ready to embrace your femininity.  Her presence suggests you like to take care of yourself and are not averse to being pampered or spoiled by your partner or spouse. However, you are not needy or necessarily high maintenance. You will put up with a lot, but there are certain areas you are not prepared to compromise on. They are personal care and appearance. You believe in looking after yourself and attending to your feminine impulses and rituals. Regardless of what else might be going on, a long soak in a nice warm scented bath is a necessary luxury.

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INDULGE ME – GIFTS FOR THE EMPRESS

Wondering what to gift the Empress in your life? She has many needs and likes, but does have a penchant for the finer things in life. She likes to possess beautiful things and that which is aesthetically pleasing. Any gift that makes her feel good about herself, or would have be considered a non-essential luxury buy, will be greatly appreciated. She never tires of good body/hand lotion and perfume. She really enjoys all those lovely scented gifts such as essential oil candles and aromatherapy creams. She will be thrilled with good hair styling products too, gift vouchers for massage or spa treatments. A special day or weekend spa package will have her walking on air. So too, a pampering gift for her favourite hair or nail salon. An extremely tactile person, she loves the feel and touch of luxurious fabric. Silk scarves, silk underwear and luxury nightwear will be coveted. Soft fine wool throws and cashmere wraps will find her swooning with delight.

Lotus Tarot – The Empress

I AM OPEN TO SPOILING AND PAMPERING!

If you want to endear yourself to this Empress, be she your partner, spouse or love interest, you can’t go wrong by indulging or pampering her every now and then. Yet again, this does not need involve a big spend or anything extravagant (though she won’t object if you do), but you need to treat her like a lady, like a woman. Practical gifts are the domain of the Queen of Pentacles who might delight in receiving a new food processor or cordless Dyson, The Empress will wilt if presented with a purely functional gift. She likes personal goodies, not stuff for the house, unless it’s that piece of artwork or fabulous armchair she has yearned for. In the imagery we see her resting on luxurious cushions with tassels. On her head she wears a crown. This suggests she feels special and is worthy of the comfort she languishes on. She likes to get the royal treatment everyone now and then, to be treated like a Queen. She may have to get up in a few minutes and return to the rush and fuss of daily life and duty, but for the moment she is being indulgent. She needs regular treats and pampering to feel balanced, even if it is just a cup of tea and biscuit in her hand while she flicks through a glossy magazine. If she has sufficient income, I can see this Empress investing in a weekly professional blow dry and manicure as part of her ‘feel good about myself ‘care package. As her partner or spouse, you may be under the impression she does all this to impress you. Perhaps a little, but the main reason is for herself. We all know that ‘just had my hair blow-dried’ feeling that lifts our spirits and forces us to take sneaky looks in any mirror we pass. It can transform a down mood and blow away the blues.  In the imagery, I like to think it is her birthday, or perhaps Mother’s Day. Instead of being up and about sorting everyone out, she has been told to stay in bed and relax. In the kitchen, her partner and children are busy preparing a sumptuous breakfast which will be carried up to her on a tray complete with fresh flowers, greeting cards and gifts. The Empress is much-loved by her partner and children who will go out of their way to make her feel special because she is worth it. The Empress enjoys a healthy self-esteem and self-worth so has no issues with feeling special too or being told how special she is. The Empress will work to accommodate everyone, but because of her strong sense of self-worth and importance, has no problem putting herself first when necessary.

DON’T FORGET MY BIRTHDAY!

Should you neglect the Empress, forget her birthday, your anniversary or Mother’s Day, she will not attempt to hide her disappointment in you. She sees these special occasions as her God-given right that need to be honoured and celebrated. After all, look at the fuss she goes to for you. Likewise, thought and effort should be put into any gifts or treats. She will not expect you to spend a week’s wages on her, but she will expect thought to have gone into it. Running into the petrol station on the way home to grab a generic box of chocolates and limp bouquet of flowers simply just won’t do and will probably land you in her bad books for the foreseeable future.

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WHERE YOU MIGHT ENCOUNTER THE EMPRESS

When The Empress is drawn in the position of where you will meet or where you will find love, we must reflect on where she likes to go. The Empress is very outgoing, friendly and often involved on a community level. In the work place she may be overseeing staff, and generally making sure all is in order and everyone happy. So, you could find her in this role in many walks of life. She is very creative and artistic, likes to sing, act, dance and play music. She will most likely seek an outlet to express such talents and skills. Therefore, you might meet her at your local music or drama society, at singing, music, acting or art classes. She might be the teacher or student. As a mother she will be keenly active in the Parent’s Association in her children’s school, helping organise events, raising funds through cake sales and other activities. She may be one of the Mother’s at the school gate. Don’t presume she is married just because she has children – she could be free and available so make discreet enquiries. The Empress may be found working with children. She may be a teacher, carer or nurse.  You could encounter this Empress working in a holistic or beauty care environment. She may be the massage therapist in a spa, the beautician working on the skincare or make-up counter, or she might offer to spray you with expensive perfume/after shave as you walk through an up-market department store. She likes to work with luxury goods such as designer handbags, clothes, and expensive jewelry. You might also first meet her in a hospitality environment, on the reception desk or banqueting. She is a sucker for weddings, so you could be introduced to her at one. She may also be found working a stand at a wedding fair.  Needless to say, if you are there with your intended, then just smile at The Empress and keep walking.

Celtic Tarot – The Empress

BE YOURSELF – IT’S MORE THAN ENOUGH!

Heading out on your first date with a new suitor and want to make a great impression, The Empress appearing in response to this query advises you to be yourself. Act naturally. Do not attempt to put on any façade or force a personality style that does not belong to you. Of course, acting yourself and being natural, should not include any unbecoming habits or traits. The Empress will always recommend you go to some effort to look and dress your best, but this does not include a personality make-over. She reminds you that although you may feel you are not exciting or interesting enough, this person was attracted to you. They are looking forward to meeting the person they were drawn to, not a cardboard cut-out of someone else. Yes, be aware of acting friendly, engaging and sociable, but let it be an enhanced version of yourself, not false. You won’t be able to keep up the pretense on an ongoing basis. The Empress promotes an attitude of ‘what you see is what you get’. The lily doesn’t need much, gilding. You are lovely as you are. Relax.

EXPRESS YOUR FEELINGS – BE YOUR LOVING SELF

The Empress as we know is very much in touch with her feelings and is well able to express them. In a love reading, her advice may be to embrace your feelings and not deny them. Does it feel good? How does it make you feel?  If you feel love, do not hide it. Share your love. Let your partner know how you feel about them. Put an ardent suitor out of their misery by reciprocating their interest in you. Be demonstrative in love. Take it out of your head and into your heart. Don’t make it all about you in love. Let them know how important they are too, and how happy they make you. The Empress appearing as a representation of your relationship may be asking you to count your blessings for you have a lot to be thankful for. You love and are loved in return. The Growth and abundant aspect of the Empress could be highlighting a relationship or partner that is helping you grow and develop. You are being given the opportunity and freedom to find and be yourself with this person. They have no interest in changing you or making you conform to their way of being.

Demonstrative love is suggested by the Empress with genuine affection, warmth, intimacy and kindness. When the Empress appears, she is not afraid to touch and be touched. She will greet you with a hug, embrace, kiss and big smile. In relationships and love, she embodies contentment and real happiness. It marks a time for counting your blessings in finding the love of your life, being surrounded by those you care most for; family, children and friends. She is happy and joyful with what she has.

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SHOW ME HOW MUCH YOU LOVE ME!

The Empress in a love or relationship reading often highlights the need for love to be expressed in a demonstrative way other than words. Stop telling her how much you love her and show her instead. Words can be cheap and plentiful. They roll off the tongue with ease, sometimes without us consciously aware of what was said. The Empress will begin to pay lip service to your declarations of love if your actions do not match it. She will begin to think you do not mean it. Her presence may ask you to take stock of your declarations. What do they actually mean? Is love a word you simply throw out and around because you know it is what she expects to hear, or is it something you really feel for her. Do you often use the excuse ‘but you know I love you’ when challenged over your lack of attention or interest? No, she may not know how much you love her, if at all. How much do you love her, and what is it about her that you love? Telling someone you love them and then treating them in a disrespectful manner is not very reassuring. Make sure you back up your words of love with loving action and behaviour. They may be held in doubt or disbelief otherwise. The Empress may have heard them all before and think them to mean nothing.

SEEKING A SUCCESSFUL RELATIONSHIP

The Upright Empress appearing in a relationship or love reading is generally seen as a positive thing depending on the nature of the reading and querant. She embodies the energy and potential of both The High Priestess and herself. She is all woman, from her soul to outer shell. She has integrated all aspects of femininity. She is the soft but strong warrior woman. She seeks success in her relationships and is ready to give her all to secure it. However, although she is all loving and giving, she has no intention of self-sacrificing or self-denying. She wants to be in a happy and stable relationship, not looking for drama or turmoil. She is the partner you want by your side as you move forward in life. She can be relied on to support you, be there for you – for better or worse, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer. She plays no games, no mind tricks and has no hidden agendas. She is the genuine article, the real deal, and is much sought after.

RELATIONSHIP IS STILL INCUBATING

A good relationship does not fall out of the sky. It must be cultivated, nurtured and nourished. The gestation period must be gone through. Do not rush a relationship past this stage. It may not be there just yet. The Empress could suggest the relationship is still fragile, not yet fully formed. It is still incubating, and patience is needed before the desired outcome can be fully realised. Good things come to those who wait.

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LOVE IS STILL FRAGILE – NEEDS TIME TO GROW

Love needs time to grow and mature when The Empress appears. It is still in its tentative state but shows great promise as long as it is allowed to develop naturally, of its own accord, in its own time. Just like a pregnancy, you will have to be patient. You may want it all to happen now, but some things worth waiting for cannot be rushed. An infant born prematurely is fragile and extremely vulnerable. It needs considerable attention, care and nurturing to survive. When allowed go to full term, it is born hardy and fully developed. The same is true of your relationship.

GREAT POTENTIAL – THIS COULD END IN MARRIAGE

If you are seeking a loving, committed and long-term relationship, The Empress promises to deliver in this regard. The Empress can suggest the relationship you are in or pursuing, has the potential to go all the way and it could end in marriage. It is safe to move it forward. You are on the right track. It feels good, it feels right. The Empress typically has an interest in settling down, getting married and starting a family. If that is what you are looking for, her appearance in your reading confirms you are both looking for the same thing. The Empress is the bride whose arrival is excitedly anticipated by the figures in the Four of Wands or the expectant mother sharing her joyous news with all.  However, strong supporting cards would be an added benefit, such as the Four of Wands, Hierohpant, Justice, Ten of Cups/Pentacles etc.

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GREAT POTENTIAL AND POSITIVE GROWTH – RELAXING INTO YOUR RELATIONSHIP

The Empress being a number 3 card can imply a relationship or love interest is nicely developing. Progress has certainly been made and things are favourably moving along. Love could be going through a period of incubation or gestation – be patient. Positive growth is implied. It looks like this relationship could have a significant future, so you should be feeling optimistic about its prospects. Although still too premature to make definite predictions, The Empress could mark the transition from the early stage of romance and love into something of greater depth and meaning. You are now experiencing deeper feeling for your partner/each other and have no doubts about being with them. There is nothing forced or contrived in the Empress. The development in your relationship is happening naturally. It feels right. There is a lovely sense of comfort and relaxation at this stage of the relationship. Although it is never wise to rest on one’s laurels, the imagery of the Empress could point to that time when you do not need to worry about commitment to each other, for all is good in the garden. You have reached a stage where you can comfortably be yourself with a partner without having to keep up facades or pretences. The Empress lounges on her scatter cushions. Whereas this can suggest luxury and pampering, it could imply chilling out at home instead of heading out on organised dates. Sharing a bottle of wine by the fireside, or eating al fresco in the back garden is every bit as enjoyable, if not more, than going out somewhere fancy. Your relationship is going through a joyous time. You feel totally connected and at ease with each other.

RELATIONSHIP GOING THROUGH A PRODUCTIVE PHASE

The Empress as a representation of the triple goddess might suggest the cyclical nature of a relationship, especially if the Wheel of Fortune is close by. At present it is going through a really good phase with no pressing issues or irritations. You are getting on very well with your partner and see eye to eye on most things. There’s nothing to argue about or fall out over.  This is a very productive stage.  Anything gained during this time will stand to you in the future.  Make the most of it.

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THE GOOD LIFE – KNOW THAT YOU ARE LOVED!

The Empress is the very embodiment of love and can be prolific in the giving of it. Hers is a bountiful heart that keeps on giving. She is emotionally stable and secure within herself which has a knock-on effect in her relationships. Her appearance in a love reading offers reassurance – you are loved. Everything is going nicely, and you are held in deep affection and regard. This is a time of great happiness and harmony on the relationship or family front. This has not happened by chance. The Empress lets you know the effort you have put into your relationship so far is paying off. You have struck gold here. The Empress does not suffer fools too readily, but unlike the High Priestess, she is tolerant of them, nice fools that is. There is room for all god’s creations, even fools. However, if the Empress has decided to pair up with you, it is a sign she has recognised something of great worth and value in you. Even if you are a bit of a clown at times, the Empress overlooks that to see the greater good in you. You may scratch your head and wonder why this amazing woman would want to spend her time with you for you may not feel worthy of such a blessing. She is with you because she loves you and knows that your heart is in the right place. She may see you as the person she wants to spend the rest of her life with, or as the perfect partner to start a family with. The Empress offers you the good life and hopes you will appreciate all that it comes with it, for it is a rare commodity and highly prized. Go forth and enjoy the time you have with each other.

A LOVING APPROACH MAY BE THE SOLUTION

Should you be experiencing difficulties or issues in your relationship, The Empress can suggest that it will respond positively to a loving approach. Drop the negativity and hostility. Handle the situation and those involved in a loving manner. If allowed, love can heal all ills. It creates peace and harmony. Where is the love in your situation? How can you apply love to your relationship issues? Have you enough love within to forgive your partner? Have you closed your heart and stopped the flow of love? The Empress can suggest the return of harmony in your relationship after a troublesome time.

RESTORATION OF HARMONY

If your relationship has been struggling through a rough patch, the Empress appearing in a present or future position is very reassuring. She suggests the potential to restore harmony and bring to an end any disruption you may have been experiencing. Love will win out with hearts healed.

Crystal Visions Tarot – The Empress

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FOR THE LOVE OF VENUS – BRINGING OUT YOUR FEMININE SIDE

The Empress is aligned to the planet Venus which rules over love, beauty, peace and harmony. The symbol for Venus, the circle with downward pointing arrow is also the international symbol for women. The Empress is the embodiment of femininity. She is soft and loving, yet strong and powerful. The Empress rules the home and domestic side of life. She will seek to dominate in this area and will also impose her feminine influence over her relationship. The Empress is a natural healer. She has the ability to bring harmony to any areas out of balance. If she appears in this capacity for a male, she may be encouraging him to bring out his feminine side instead of aggression and hostility. She suggests that solutions may be found via a soft, loving and tolerant approach. Be the peacemaker, not the aggressor. Connect with your heart in this matter and be guided by it. Be considerate of the feelings of others. It is alright to feel emotional. Allow The Empress help you express those emotions in a safe and loving manner. Men, be more demonstrative with your partner and children. Act in a loving way instead of seeking to control. Don’t just assume they know you love them. show them, tell them. Soften up, lighten up.

The Empress can show up for men who are rearing children on their own or are the stay at home parent. They assume the role and duties that are traditionally associated with the mother.

For women, The Empress may be asking why you are down-playing your womanly features, why you are acting so tough or hard? You have lost touch with your feminine side. She can also appear if you are in a male-dominated career. Although you may need to access the Magician or Emperor’s energy to compete and succeed, never forget you are a woman. When you can, dress in a feminine way, and be a little softer in your tone and attitude.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

The Empress in a relationship or love interest reading can suggest a partner who is capable of loving unconditionally. They bring the potential of a love that has no strings attached or hidden agendas. The individual is ready and willing to love with their heart, soul, mind and body and will be looking for the same in return. So, if the idea of that appeals to you, the Empress appearing in your love reading can certainly deliver.

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I’M LOOKING FOR A FULL RELATIONSHIP

The Empress appearing in a love or relationship reading may suggest your partner or love interest is looking for a full-on relationship. They may be keen to move in with you and set up house. They intend seeing a lot of you and wish to feature more permanently in your life. There may be a growing broodiness as the Empress seeks to build a nest and make a house a home. If you are not interested in a deeper commitment with this Empress, it would be kind to let her know that you are not who she is looking for.

LOVE BLOSSOMS

The Empress is a good indicator that any relationship you are in is maturing. Love blossoms or comes into full bloom promising deep fulfillment. There is a wonderful sense of being protective of each other. The Empress loves unconditionally and guarantees she will be there to prop you up when needed and to help rally you around when you are feeling low.

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THE EMPRESS HAS GIVEN YOUR LIFE A WHOLE NEW MEANING

In new or budding relationships, there is a sense of creating a magical world in which the two of you now hang out. You just can’t wait to see each other and need no one else around. You are content in your perfect garden of love and rightly feel all loved up. If this Empress is new in your life, she may have had a transformative effect on your personality. Simply by spending time in her company, your heart has begun to open to a new way of feeling, thinking and being. You might see life through new eyes, and take pleasure in the simple things in life. Friends, family and colleagues are sure to remark on the very positive effect this Empress is having on you. They will be keen to see you make a success of the relationship.

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THIS IS WHO YOU WANT BY YOUR SIDE

The Empress is often described as being all-woman. Whereas the High Priestess is the fantasy woman for many males, it is the Empress who is flesh and blood, attainable and approachable – a realistic aspiration. There is potential for growth and development within the relationship. She fulfills many roles while offering you good sex and a warm body to snuggle up to at night. She is the partner or spouse, the lover, the mother, the carer, the nurturer, the friend, the confidant all rolled into one. She offers support, and is warm and loving. In her traditional sense, she may also be the domestic goddess, turning a lifeless house into a home. She will stay by your side and stick with you through thick and thin. She will love you when no one else does. The Empress could be Wonder Woman.

HOW YOUR EX FEELS ABOUT YOU

Should you enquire on how your ex now feels about you and The Empress is drawn, it strongly suggests you are still held in high regard. You have left very big shoes to fill and your ex may find it difficult, if not impossible, to find anyone to replace you. There may be a sense of loss and regret about not realising the wonderful partner they had until you were gone. Your ex still thinks the world of you and may want you back. However, it would be unwise to base this interpretation on just one card. Consult surrounding cards to determine if the Empress is a representation of you, as it could be someone else. Although you ask what your ex feels for you, The Empress turning up in response could be announcing he has found a replacement and is extremely happy and content. He may even be married with a family. Make sure the Empress is you before jumping to conclusions. For example, the Five of Cups close by could highlight your ex’s regret, the Two of Wands Reversed could also suggest regret at a decision made and wanting to come home. Upright Courts that are a match for you would imply that yes, the Empress is you, but should a foreign Court appear, this could identify a new Empress on the scene, especially if there are plenty of upbeat positive cards to go with it. The Three of Wands for example would imply he has moved on with this other Empress, or perhaps he acknowledges your wondrous self, but is still ready to move on without you.

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TENDING TO YOUR OWN NEEDS – PUTTING YOURSELF FIRST

If you have been obsessing about finding love, or are investing too much of your time and energy catering to the needs of your partner or spouse, The Empress may appear in your reading to advise you to concentrate on yourself right now instead of others. You may be giving too much which leaves very little for yourself. Stop and take a good look at yourself. Ask if there are areas that could do with some proper care and attention. What have you let go? Maybe it is time to work on self-development and personal growth. It is all well and good to care for others, but who cares for the carer. The Empress must take matters into her own hands and not wait for others to notice her needs.   When you notice you are making constant excuses for not doing this or that, remind yourself that you are ‘worth it’. Perhaps put the search for love on hold while you tend to your own needs.

MAKING REAL LIFE CONNECTIONS, NOT ONLINE ONES

Find love in the natural sense by going out and socialising. Online dating is not the same in this instance for the Empress is very tactile. She will need to physically see and hear you, pick up on your energy and be in your company. Via the internet, this will be too vague and distant. You will not get a proper sense or feel for each other at all. You need to make real life connections, not online ones.

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MONEY & STATUS – THE ICING ON THE CAKE

We all know at this stage how much the Empress appreciates and enjoys the good things in life, how she likes to take care of her appearance and spend time attending to her feminine duties of self-care and attention. She likes the good things in life and will want to surround herself with beautiful things. She will of course want the best for her family too and will not make them go without so that she can have all, but she does like her nice things and can develop an expensive taste for luxury items and the best that money can buy. The Empress can be quite prolific, her garden thriving like a tropical rain forest. She can want it all. The perfect partner, the gorgeous family, the devoted pets, the amazing house, the fabulous interior décor, the stunning garden, top of the range car, designer clothes, luxury items, amazing holidays and exciting social life. Of course, all these come at a price but once her companion Queen aspect does not put a negative slant on things, there is a good chance she can have it all. This is because she attracts it to her. She may be the goddess of love and motherhood, the perfect partner, spouse and mother, but she does like money and status. She is not greedy or grabby, a take, take, take type of person. She will love her partner to the moon and back, but being able to afford the good life is the icing on the cake for her. Once she is matched with an understanding partner who appreciates her worth, her needs will be lovingly catered to whenever possible. Her partner or spouse genuinely want only the best for her too and love that she can find happiness and blessings in both the ordinary and extraordinary. She will appreciate everything she gets and will be generous with those around her. Lucky the Empress who gets to have it all. I think this is the flawless Empress who has always enjoyed a wonderful relationship with self. She is happy within and without. She carries no heavy baggage or bitterness. She does not indulge in negative internal chit chat. Her happiness and optimism are infectious.  In being so, she attracts to her all the wealth of the universe – personal happiness, happiness with another, positive experiences and lots of good fortune.

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LIVING IN THE REAL WORLD!

In a love triangle reading the High Priestess would represent the other woman, while the Empress would represent the official or legit partner who is there for the mundane, humdrum and domestic side of your life. The High Priestess appeals to you on another level but will not care for you in the way the Empress will. It really depends on what you are looking for. The High Priestess is typically perfect with not a hair out of place, her beauty very much reliant on this unreal image. She does not like to be seen in a less than perfect light even though she is amazing with or without. Time spent with The High Priestess is outside of normal existence or has nothing to do with everyday reality. She does not have to get her hands dirty like the Empress must.  The Empress lives in the real world which she accepts can be quite messy at times. She has the power to be go with the flow, relax into the mess, slop around in it for days even. She is not fussed about occasionally falling into disarray or dishevelment once there is a good reason for it. However, she knows how to clean up and pull herself together. This ability to work both looks equally well and quite naturally puts her leagues ahead of the impeccable High Priestess. Circumstances, the chores and needs of the day can find her up to her eyeballs in mess, but she is still gorgeous and sexy. It suits her in a way that would seem outrageous for the High Priestess. When The Empress steps away from the mess and dresses up, she turns up her feminine volume and transforms into a goddess.

TERRITORIAL

The Empress may be friendly and all-accommodating, but she will become very territorial and protective when threatened. She guards fiercely all her creations and can become possessive and controlling. She will fight to the bitter end to retain that which is hers. Therefore, the Empress is not a quitter in relationships. She does not walk away at the first hint of trouble, or when her relationship or marriage hits an inevitable rough patch. She uses love to see her through such times, reminding her partner that no matter what else, they still have each other. Once they love each other, nothing can destroy them, they will find a way out of whatever mess they are in. Should her partner drift into the arms of another, she may be grievously hurt, but when Upright, rarely shuts down completely. She is re-conciliatory and open to forgiveness.

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SHARING HER LOVE OF THE NATURAL KINGDOM WITH YOU

Bringing in the natural world aspect of this card, we now find the Empress representing a partner who loves nature and animals. They may be instrumental in introducing you to the magic and beauty of the natural kingdom. The Empress in your life may love to dress up and look fancy, but she will be just as at home kitted out in hiking gear going for long walks in the countryside, or with her hands deep in the soil planting bulbs and seedlings. She is also attracted to animals and may have a cat or dog she is very attached to. It would be important for you to share her feelings in this regard as she will most likely opt for her pet – her child, should you give her any ultimatums.

THE HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTESS!

The Empress is a great socialiser and natural born hostess. Her appearance may be prompting you to get out and about in order to meet new people, or to think about hosting a party or dinner if you haven’t done one in some time. If you are looking for love, ask friends to bring an acquaintance or two to make the event more interesting. You can dazzle them with your culinary skills and great table presentation.

A PENCHANT FOR OLDER WOMEN

The Empress can represent the older woman, being attracted to older women in general or fantasising about older women. You find her more interesting, and obviously more experienced. You may have developed a penchant for older women, or perhaps it is just a crush you are going through at present.  Maybe it is just one older woman in particular who has made an impression on you. You may have developed an attraction for one of your friend’s mothers, or even your mother-in-law if you are viewing her in a Mrs Robinson (The Graduate Movie) light. This attraction is quite harmless as long as it goes nowhere, and you do not act on it. Falling for the mother or aunt of your partner or spouse will lead you into all sorts of misery, and falls into the territory of the Reversed Empress, the Mrs. Robinson figure who actively entices you, is your co-conspirator and collaborator.

MATURE AND EXPERIENCED

On a very generic level, you are drawn to Empress types. I have many younger male clients who admit to this. They seek out older women to date, women established in their careers, possibly post-divorce or with grown up children. They may be almost young enough to be the Empress’ offspring themselves. They are not put off by lines on her face, grey in her hair or a more mature body. I think it is her mind and self-assuredness they find compelling. They see her as a woman who has lived, experienced life, has something to say for herself, knows what she wants and wears no facades. She calls a spade a spade instead of the often-silly mind games played by younger women.

ATTRACTED TO A MARRIED WOMAN

The Empress both Upright and Reversed can suggest you have fallen for a married woman. You might be quite helplessly in love. The Empress may or may not be aware of it. If she is, she will be flattered but assures you nothing can or will come of it. The Empress is loyal and faithful to her partner or spouse, so you are barking up the wrong tree here. You may need to get over your fascination and move on. This Empress is out of your reach. Of course, if she is Reversed, the story could change, with her responding to your interest in her, or even encouraging it.

Victorian Fairy Tarot – The Empress

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CHILDREN IN TOW

The Empress appearing as a representation of a love interest could act to remind you that this person is already in a committed relationship, is married, or has kids. She may not be available, and it would be wise not to pursue anything other than friendship. Should she offer you friendship, do not read anything more into it as she is happy as she is. It is only when the Empress is Reversed we might think she is unhappily married or wants out of a relationship. The Empress appearing could suggest the one you pursue has children that come with her as a package and cannot be negotiated on. Regardless of how madly in love she might fall for you, her children will always and rightly, come first. Do not be under the impression she can pawn them off every weekend in order to hang out with you. On the contrary, you will have to fall in with her schedule and get used to being in a relationship with restrictions, limitations and often lack of privacy. Do not attempt to compete with her children for her attention as you will shamefully lose. The Empress is very conscientious about the welfare of her children and therefore may not want you to meet them until she is sure of her feelings for you.

MOTHER DIRECT INFLUENCE

PARENTAL APPROVAL – GETTING THE THUMBS UP!

The Empress is who you want to bring home to meet your parents because you know they will approve and love her. They will be instantly charmed by her friendliness, down to earth attitude and manners. She could be the ideal daughter-in-law in their eyes.  In a very traditional sense, it will be the Empress who offers to help with the wash up after dinner instead of expecting to be waited on and entertained. She is eager to impress, not for ulterior motives, but simply because she wants to love and be loved by those most important to you. Radiant and engaging, she will go out of her way to make everyone feel comfortable. You will not need to worry about awkward conversations, stilted silence or rudeness with The Empress who is happy to initiate lively chat. She is light-hearted, humorous and well able to laugh at herself. She will not take offence easily and her positive upbeat attitude allows her to brush off the dismissive remarks of others. She will have many champions who will rush to defend her honour for she is the salt of the earth and highly respected. She will go the extra mile to disarm someone who is nasty to her. She is not keen on holding grudges, so will often let things go rather than make a fuss. It will always be their loss at the end of the day, not hers.

MAKING AN IMPRESSION ON THE MOTHER

The Empress can suggest you will need to gain the approval of your new partner’s mother before you can fully relax into your relationship. What she thinks of you is extremely important to your partner and could directly influence the outcome of your relationship. If you are going to meet your partner’s parents or mother for the first time, do not underestimate the importance of this meeting. A lot may ride on it. You may find it annoying, but aim to impress and be on your best behaviour when you meet. It would be a nice idea to bring her a special gift to get the proceedings off to a good start. While she is sizing you up, you can do the same with her. Decide whether she is simply flexing her mother status, or shaping up to be a right handful to manage. Also, be very careful about criticising your partner’s mother when The Empress appears Upright as he/she holds her in high regard and may not understand why you would possibly find fault.

Tarot of The Journey To The Orient -The Empress

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MOTHER FIGURE REQUIRED!

The Empress appearing in a love reading could imply your desire for a mothering type of figure. You may not be the most independent of types and look favourably on a partner who is ready and willing to look after you, run around after you, make sure you have everything you need and is prepared to pick up and clean up after you too. This is usually the result of an overly cossetting and indulgent mother who spoiled their child by doing absolutely everything for them. This mother archetype would have encouraged her children to become totally dependent on her by fostering a belief that she was indispensable to their existence. These children could easily reach adulthood without knowing how to turn on the washing machine, where the iron is and how to boil an egg. They lack the skills and knowledge to take care of themselves and will be quick to become dependent on a partner or spouse who seems capable in these areas. Their partner becomes a replacement for their mother.

The Urban Tarot – The Empress

If you are seeking a Mother Figure as a partner or spouse, it is likely you will look for these traits from the first date. It will become rapidly obvious how motherly they are prepared or willing to be.  It is the archetypal ‘clucking hen’ mother mode Empress who will tend to you when you feel poorly, bringing hot drinks, mopping your brow, tucking you into bed and ordering you to stay there. She is only too delighted to be of use and showcase her mothering skills. She seizes every opportunity to do so, much to the delight of her partner or spouse who raises no objection. The High Priestess would feel most uncomfortable in this role and probably leave you to fend for yourself on the basis she doesn’t want to disturb you. She would rather pay agency staff to come and look after you than volunteer herself. The High Priestess by your side may draw a lot of envious attention your way when you enter a room or social event, but it’s unlikely she will be there for any of the unpleasant bits. Whereas the Empress will respond with ‘oh my poor pet’ when you are feeling down or unwell, The High Priestess will ask ‘what about me?’, or perhaps not even notice it at all.

SEEKING UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

The Empress can highlight a partner looking for, or expecting unconditional love from you, irrespective of whether they deserve it or not. It is presumed you will put up with a lot of bad behaviour, your job to stand by them or stick with them without judgement or criticism. When The Empress is Upright, this partner generally does not act in a malicious manner but they can mess up on a regular basis, be irresponsible or foolish. When it eventually comes to the attention of the Empress, as it always does, there will be an attempt by her partner to claim it was done for her benefit and they only wanted to make her happy. Insisting their heart was in the right place when they messed up, aims to disarm the Empress and diffuse an angry outburst from her. This could become a recurring habit. Perhaps The Empress is too easy with them, too indulging. They can’t bear her to get mad or cross with them when they act out or do wrong. Losing the regard and respect of The Empress makes them miserable. They can behave like a child who knows well they have angered their mother and must seek a way back into her good books. They may sulk, cry or fawn in an attempt to extract forgiveness, a pat on the head and a return to normal. This person relies on their Empress to kiss any or all upsets and make them better. It is up to the Empress to sort out issues in the relationship, take matters in hand, know the best thing to do, and restore calm and harmony.

THERE’S NO ONE LIKE MY MOTHER! – CARBON COPY REQUIRED

From another perspective, you may not be looking for a mother figure per se as you are well equipped to care for yourself, but perhaps what you seek is a partner or spouse who emulates your mother, resembles her, has similar qualities, attributes. This is especially relevant if you had/have a mother-in-a-million and now want the same in your own relationship and for any future children you may have. You might compare all potential love interests to a mother who epitomises the ideal or perfect partner for you. Your partner or spouse may have very big shoes to fill. It may become increasingly trying for them when they become aware of the looming shadow they walk in. Constantly reminding your partner of how wonderful your mother was/is, how she did/does things this way or that way, or pointing out how your cooking is not up to the same standard as hers will not help your relationship in the long run and could foster hostility in your partner towards your mother.

Your mother may be the most wonderful woman in the world, but you must guard against turning her into a third person in your relationship. The Empress both Upright and Reversed in a relationship reading could symbolise still being tied to your mother’s apron strings whether she is encouraging it or not. Time to take stock and see how your mother’s influence or your attachment to her is impacting your relationship. Do you dine in your mother’s during the week instead of at home? Do you still bring your washing to her? Do outings with your partner always include your mother? Does your mother still buy your clothes? Can you not go a day without talking to your mother on the phone?

JUST THE EMPRESS I AM LOOKING FOR

When asking what a new partner wants from you in a love reading, The Empress could expose a hidden agenda, but surrounding cards would need to support this. This person may want it all from you and sees you as someone who could amply provide it. Now there may be no malice in this, you simply tick most of the boxes on their ‘suitable partner criteria list’. Yes, this person could see you as the marrying type if they are looking to get married themselves, but there may be strings attached, hidden needs. The person could be looking for the ideal candidate to be a mother to their existing children, someone to look after and care for all of them, someone who has the capacity to instill stability and security, to restore harmony. Your resume is impressive to them. You can cook, keep a nice home, look good and have an appreciation for the finer things in life. You are accommodating, helpful and tolerant. Yes, you really tick all the boxes. The Empress may be the first person to apply for such a role, eager to make a difference, but if this person is pushing to move things on faster than you would want, you may have to ask why?

Illuminati Tarot – The Empress

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A TUG OF WAR WITH YOUR PARTNER’S MOTHER!

The Empress is the archetypal mother and she may turn up in your reading if a mother figure is having a strong influence on your relationship or when selecting suitable partners. The Empress can be controlling and strongly opinionated where her offspring are concerned. She may butt in or attempt to influence. She likes to think she knows what is best for you, but often it is what she considers is best for her. She may have a set idea of who would be most suitable for you, what a nice type would be for her son or daughter. The Empress is often a powerful influence in her son’s life and may not be too willing to hand his care over to another. She may interfere or make the early stages of your relationship difficult, frustrating or stressful. She may not want you to succeed, hoping her son will choose her over you. She may be critical of the way you do things or attempt to force her ways on you on the basis she knows her son and his needs better than you do. It may become quite competitive. However, this only becomes a real issue when The Empress Reverses. Until then, she may prove challenging, but you should be able to win her over in the long run once you prove your worth. After all, you have stepped into what she considers her territory, and her son or daughter, her possession. She may not want to loosen her grip on what she has created.

FERTILITY/PREGNANCY/PARENTING

FOR THE LOVE OF CHILDREN – MATERNAL URGES

When The Empress appears in a relationship or love reading, she could be indicating that you, your partner, or the one you are pursuing wants to have children, is open to the idea or is thinking about it. This is probably something they have carried for some time. Some women are born with strong maternal urges. For others it is a desire that develops over time, as they mature, or as their relationship does. Then there are those who claim to have not a single maternal bone in their body. This does not imply they do not like children as often it is the person who has opted not to have children that makes the most devoted and indulgent God Parent, and in some cases, Fairy Godparent who grant their godchildren anything their little hearts so desire. They can play a pivotal role in the upbringing of someone else’s child whilst maintaining a childless status them self. However, let us go back to the Empress who wanted children ever since she played with dolls as a little child, when she helped lovingly rear her younger siblings and fussed and fretted over them as they were her own. Traditionally this was what most little girls dreamed of. Things have indeed changed, but back in the day most little girls wanted to get married and have children. I suppose it was conditioning and lack of alternatives or options being readily available. The Empress, regardless of which era she was born into is one of the personalities that never falters over the years in her desire to have children. It is as if her life has been moving towards fulfilling this destiny from the moment of her own birth. She has absolutely no qualms about wanting and having children, irrespective of career or lack of full-time partner. However, the latter is desired as she will favour the traditional two parent set-up.

Tarot Of The Old Path – The Empress

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THE DESIRE FOR A BABY

So, if you are asking for insight into your relationship or your partner’s feelings about having children, or what they are seeking long-term, The Empress might be letting you know that babies and children feature strongly for this person. There is a natural maternal instinct at play which you will probably have witnessed when observing your partner’s reaction to young children, and especially babies. You will see them become totally engrossed and all soppy. If having children is a mutual desire, this impulsive maternal behaviour will gladden your heart for sure. You have met, or are in a relationship with someone who wants what you want. You couldn’t ask for a better indication than The Empress. Now to look at this from another perspective, should you be a million miles away from wanting children, now or in the near future, The Empress appearing could signal tension ahead if she is becoming broody or conscious of her biological clock ticking away. This could already be a bone of contention for you if you do not see eye to eye on starting a family. It is perhaps one of the least discussed subjects when partners first get together as a couple. Active energy goes in to avoiding conception with an unplanned pregnancy putting the fear of God into couples just getting to know each other. Couples can then drift into marriage without having a good old chat about each other’s family planning expectations. There may be an unspoken understanding, at least on one side, that children must wait until career ambitions have been achieved, financial stability attained, or permanent home secured. There may be an alternate unspoken understanding that starting a family would be the next natural progression for the relationship, and sooner rather than later. When the Empress appears in a relationship reading where partners have not openly discussed their expectations, she could be suggesting at least one of you is brooding on starting a family. This may or may not have been vocalised just yet. The Empress confirms that this is not a phase the person is going through, but a genuine, deep down desire to have a baby of their own.

WANTING TO FILL YOUR HOUSE WITH NAPPIES

The Empress likes to fill her house with nappies and the noise of laughing, boisterous and even crying babies. She will be over the moon with getting pregnant and having a baby, but she may not want to stop at that. Her presence often indicates the desire for a large family. This is especially relevant if she too came from a large and happy family, or the other extreme, was an only but lonely child. She may even wish to have them in quick succession. She embraces the idea of running around after several young children, something that would leave the rest of us exhausted at the thought of it. She is really good with kids and takes all the chaos of a large brood in her stride.

Mystical Cats Tarot – The Empress

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HIGH FERTILITY – CONCEPTION ALERT!

The Empress is the Goddess of Fertility and her presence in a relationship, love, or sex reading can indicate high fertility with a strong potential for conception. Therefore, if you are seeking to get pregnant and she turns up in a reading, it might be a good idea to make good use of such a fertile time, as the chances for conception are definitely on the up. Should a pregnancy be the very last thing you need or want, the Empress will warn of the need to take extreme caution as the chance of an unplanned pregnancy is high. Justice turning up alongside the Empress could bring this home to bear. Pregnancy is the direct consequence of having unprotected sex, or being sloppy with your protection. There will be a certain consequence for actions taken in relation to sex. It may not be what you want, but this will be the outcome you get, fair or not. The Empress’ fertility is not a logically functioning thing. It does what it does and will not take into consideration whether it is what you want or if the time is right or not. You will have no one to blame but yourself.

Full Moon Dreams Tarot – The Empress

PREGNANCY

The Obvious follow on from the above is the Empress appearing in a spread to confirm an actual pregnancy. However, her appearance alone may not amount to anything in itself. Really you need to see other pregnancy cards, such as the Ace/Three/Four of Wands, Nine of Pentacles and Pages. As a one-card reading in answer to ‘Am I pregnant?’, it could be a ‘Yes, you are with child’, but it could also point to, ‘No, but you are very fertile, so it could happen’, or ‘Yes, I know you want to be pregnant’. The Empress is often depicted very obviously pregnant, but in the Rider-Waite this is only implied by her voluminous gown which is reminiscent of a maternity smock. It may be hanging quite loose now, but she will fill it out as gestation progresses. When she turns up in your reading, she could be asking you to observe more closely that bit of weight recently gained, the sudden fullness or your breasts, or tightness of your clothes. They could be signs of pregnancy that haven’t clicked with you just yet. Your body may feel different, lost its maiden outline, but you might have been too busy to question why.

THE MIRACLE OF CHILD BIRTH –  A WHOLE NEW RESPECT!

The Empress can turn up in a reading if your partner has recently given birth. Prior to that you may have seen her as maiden-like. You may have dated for a long time, been together or married for years. The woman you know has changed. Pregnancy, and especially the birth has had a profound effect on both of you. You might see your partner in a whole new light. You have so much respect for what she has achieved and gone through. You may be in awe of her after witnessing the birth of your child. Perhaps you felt powerless to help during her hours of labour, possibly shocked by the level of pain she endured, and then the ordeal of delivery. Your partner has acquired a Goddess-like aura in your eyes and you have never loved her as much as you do now. These feelings can un-leash intense emotions that will choke you up and bring tears to your eyes. You are so proud of her.

BABY IS WONDERFUL, BUT DO NOT LOSE SIGHT OF YOURSELF – MOTHERS HAVE NEEDS TOO!

The Empress can appear in a reading for mothers, both new and old to remind them not to lose sight of themselves or their needs after having a baby. Many women put so much effort into their new infant and children’s wants and needs, they fail to notice how much they have let themselves go. It can become all about the baby or children, with nothing left for the mother. She will be prepared to go without so they may have it all. This is admirable when going without relates to putting food on the table and paying bills, but many women fail to include themselves in the equation when it comes to spending money on nice things. Children today have enormous needs and demands. There may be very little left for the parents after their children have been catered for. The Empress insists you do not forget yourself in the midst of childrearing. When a new baby is born, the mother is typically showered with gifts for her baby. Family and friends can sometimes overlook the need to gift the mother who has gone through so much to bring baby into the world. She may be feeling quite rough, in pain, and dreadfully exhausted after the ordeal. A thoughtful and indulgent personal gift would be greatly appreciated. A soothing body lotion, voucher for hair treatment or her favouite clothes store would be ideal. Partners and spouses should be aware of this too. In the weeks and early months following the birth, mother will struggle to find clothes that fit and are comfortable. It may be weeks or months before she has any interest in putting on clothes and getting out and about. Her body will take time to recover and come back into shape. It is only when sufficient sleep has been restored will she begin to raise her head and wonder what has been going on in the world outside while she drifted in a cotton woolly cocoon of baby, feeding times, and nappy changes. Then she may wonder when it was she last felt like a real woman, when she last thought about what she might wear, or spent time exfoliating her skin or buffing her nails. When that time comes, wouldn’t it be nice to go shopping for some new clothes to mark her return to mainstream life once more? The Empress knows how she feels and wants to help get her back in form.

A TIME TO BE PARENTS AND A TIME TO BE PARTNERS

Tending to one’s appearance and needs is not a sign of superficiality or shallowness. On the contrary, it is a sign of personal regard and basic pride. The Empress can become consumed with her baby or children so must work to address the balance. Likewise, as a couple who have just had a baby, or already have a family, do not become so drawn in that you no longer behave as a couple. Yes, you are now a mother and father, but you need to make time for each other as woman and man, as partners, as spouses. Don’t drop all this just because you have children. Remember that one day, in the not too distant future, your child or children will leave to find their own way in the world. It will be just you and your partner or spouse then, as it was before babies were born. If you have not worked to maintain this non-parent’s relationship, you may find it very challenging to revive it. You could discover after all these years you no longer know each other on this level. Your world had become your children, your conversation based around your children, your social life centred around your children, your needs and wants cast aside for your children’s. When they are gone, they take the life you have become accustomed to with them, leaving you adrift and unsure of what to do with your time and with each other. What do you now talk about? How should you spend your time with each other now that the children are gone? Both the Empress and Emperor need to keep working on their relationship while rearing children or it may slowly disappear. They should aim to have date nights and time away. During this time, a ban on discussing children should be enforced so they may connect and strengthen their relationship with each other. Keep developing and growing as individuals, as a couple, and as Lovers.

Sensual Wicca Tarot – The Empress

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A NATURAL MOTHER

Throughout pregnancy a woman goes through many changes. These changes happen on a physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual basis. The woman who first discovered she was pregnant has gone through a transformation. Childbirth has matured her. She has changed from maiden to mother. You not only look different, you feel different too. There is a new air and presence about you. The Empress appearing in a reading after you have had a baby can suggest it has been the making of you. You may feel completely fulfilled and connected in your new role. Having a baby has brought the best out in you. It may also have softened you, made you more compassionate and tolerant. You may no longer sweat the small stuff as you now understand this is what life is all about. You may be quite surprised at the change in you, never expected a baby to have such an impact on your life. Those around you will have noticed too. You have taken to motherhood like a duck to water and want for nothing more.

Anna Sudit Tarot Art – The Empress

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YUMMY MUMMY!

The Empress does like to look good and take care of herself. As a modern-day Empress, she will be up to speed on what is in style fashion-wise for both herself and her children. She will have a carefully selected wardrobe for school days and likes to turn up looking glam. She will aim to be as stylish as she can, when she can. She has no problem driving to the school with a jacket thrown over her pajamas, but in truth, she will push to be well turned out at the school gate. The Empress is the archetypal Yummy Mummy who turns up to the school looking absolutely fabulous. Her style of dress will depend on which queen accompanies her. The Queen of Cups will have a unique way of putting her look together, the Queen of Wands will be dynamic and trendy. The Queen of Swords will be a sharp dresser, while the Queen of Pentacles totally rocks a sporty outdoor look. The Empress Yummy Mummy closely follows what celebrity mums are wearing and will aim to adopt their style, but with her own personal twist. She does casual wear equally as well as dressy up clothes. Her hair may be simply tied up in a scrunchy with loose tendrils hanging around her face, but it will attract compliments and enquiries from other mothers. Her kids’ friends are always telling them how beautiful their mother is.

MATERNITY LEAVE AND THE THOUGHT OF GOING BACK TO WORK

The Empress could suggest going on maternity leave if relevant pregnancy and work-related cards appear. The Seven of Pentacles could imply taking that break, finishing up. You are now free to immerse yourself in the role of motherhood and forget about work and career for a while. It will be interesting to see how you will feel about returning to work afterwards. Your whole attitude may change. It can be very tough for some mums. A career that once held such interest may pale into insignificance when compared to the role of rearing your baby, of being a mother. Then there are those who cannot wait to get back to work. They love their child but feel their brain is turning to mush and miss the social aspect of work and the challenge.

Afro-Brazilian Tarot – The Empress

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If The Empress appears when you are approaching the time when maternity leave is coming to an end, check surrounding cards to determine how it is affecting you and what you are truly feeling. Strong Cup cards would suggest being very emotional. The Five would hint at dread at the thought of having to leave your baby. The six would suggest trying to find suitable child care, of missing the comforting sanctuary of the family home. Two would highlight separation issues. The Seven of Cups might find you frantically searching for suitable child-care, a way to work from home, an alternative to returning to your job or a way around it. The Eight would see you resigned to going back to work, even though it will be with a heavy heart. The Nine of Cups might show the other side of things, looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and catching up with work colleagues, or perhaps happily deciding not to go back. The Ten of Cups is reassuring in telling that it will all work out. There is a good chance a family member will agree to mind your child, maybe a sister or mother. Perhaps finding a childminder to come to your home rather than placing your baby in a creche would be more agreeable, or leaving your child to be minded in a family environment may be more natural and loving. Check surrounding cards to determine the best way forward for all.

Swords would suggest either stress related to going back to work or a very logical approach. Regardless of how you feel, you need the money and must go back, or perhaps you are not prepared to throw away a career you fought hard to build. Might as well get on with it. However, Swords could find you becoming depressed or worrying significantly. Wands would highlight a positive and upbeat attitude. You will probably opt for a creche style environment, believing social interaction to be a good thing for your child. You are going back to work and will be brave about handing your child over into the care of others. You think it best for you and for baby. You love your baby, but need more.

Pentacles will have you seeing the practical side of things. It may come down to finances at the end. You probably want the best of both worlds, to stay at home with your baby but also work and earn money. You will manage this without trouble but there is a chance you have worked on some plan throughout your maternity leave. This could find you starting your own business, Ace, Three, Eight of Pentacles. The Six of Pentacles could see you taking in other people’s children or doing some freelance work from home, The Four of Pentacles could highlight being well organised financially before deciding to start a family. You may have saved hard and have enough money to allow you stay at home for a longer than normal maternity leave. Five of Pentacles suggests you have no choice but go back to work. You could be a single parent with no other means of support. The Six could also imply receiving single parent social welfare allowance, or you may take early redundancy. The Nine and Ten of course probably finds you financially very comfortable. You are in a very privileged position. There is no pressure on you to return to work.

The Empress by Neshad – Deviant Art

KITH AND KIN – HAPPY IN THE BOSOM OF YOUR FAMILY

The Empress in pregnancy and child rearing can suggest being happy in the bosom of your family. This is where you find joy, this is where you are meant to be. If the Six and Ten of Cups are also present, your home and loved ones mean the world to you. You have created an enviable environment. There is a strong wholesome feel to the Empress. She is a shining example of the good life and we can all learn a lot by studying or observing her approach and attitude to child-rearing, relationships and home-life. She seems to have struck gold and has it all going for her. She has found the magic ingredient for happiness. It is the Empress who will turn up at the door of the Four of Wands to welcome her new neighbours with a homemade apple pie. It is also the Empress who extends an open friendly invite to call upon her own home in the Ten of Cups. If you are in a relationship with or married to this Empress, there will always be callers at your door or extra people for dinner. There will be much lively chat humour and bonhomie.

Everyday Enchantment Tarot by Poppy Palin – Empress

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THE FOSTER MOTHER/ADOPTION

The Empress capacity for expressing love comes from a bottomless well. She does not fear scarcity by restricting who she shares it with. There is enough love, compassion, tolerance and care to go around. The more she gives, the more becomes available. In her role as maternal and mothering goddess, The Empress can be moved by the plight of all the babies, children and adolescents who may not be fortunate to have the stability, security and love of a strong parent. In this manner, she is known to want to help, to save these children, to make a difference in their lives. She wants to provide them with the love, care, attention and nurturing that all children should be surrounded with. No better archetype than Mother Nature herself to understand how cruel and harsh the world can be for some.

The Empress knows she can make a difference to the lives of young people. Under this aspect, we will find her actively involved in Fostering or Adoption. Her driving force could be due to an inability to have her own children, but often we see this expression of the Empress Archetype complete with a family of her own, fostering or adopting babies or children. Her venture into this area could lead to fostering becoming something of a career or vocation for her. She might take in several children at a time or have a steady stream over the years. This Empress aspect is not the overly-indulgent type who likes to let her children run wild and free. On the contrary, she stands for tough love. She needs to be both good and bad cop to create a stable and secure environment for the children she takes in. She makes few allowances for where they have come from or what they have been through, instead getting them to fall into line as quickly as possible so that they can feel normal instead of being treated differently. She has an enormous capacity for love and is tolerant beyond belief. She treats all her children, biological, fostered or adopted, in a similar manner. Those children who have passed through her care over the years have immense respect for her and continue to look to her as their mother figure as they grow into adulthood.

Check for Six of Cups, Five of Wands, Several Reversed Pages, Five/Six of Pentacles. The Queens of Wands and Pentacles with the Empress would work well as Foster parents.

MOTHERING – BACKGROUND INFLUENCE

MOTHERING

The Empress being the Mother Archetype suggests motherhood on all levels. Not just becoming a mother yourself or deciding to start a family, but also about mothering in general. She can represent your own mother, the relationship you had/have with your mother. Do you see your mother as a role model you wish to aspire to, or one you wish to avoid at all costs? Do you want to be like your mother, or the total opposite? Do you intend to lean on your mother for support or stay well away?  This all comes down to your personal experiences as a child, how happy you were, how well you bonded, and the relationship you had with your mother over the years. When the Empress is Upright, it is likely your own mother will figure strongly in how you approach being a mother. She suggests a strong bond and love for your mother. It will be your mother you turn to for advice, support and help. You will want her to be actively involved in the rearing of your child. You will trust her implicitly and allow her to care for your child. Your mother will become an extension of you as your child grows and will be much loved by your child or children. Of course, you will disagree at times, and she might try to take over or exert her influence. She may attempt to relive motherhood through your child and take over, but her heart is in the right place and means no harm. The situation can be managed and is very positive overall. See your mother in a new light.

It is only when The Empress Reverses do we see the negatives and we will address this further on.

OH NO, I HAVE TURNED INTO MY MOTHER!

When the Empress appears in a love or relationship/parenting spread where there are issues, we must also explore the relationship your mother had with your father. Of course, your mother may have been a single parent, your father, absent or deceased. However, The Empress, your mother, will still have influenced your approach to relationships over the years. We must look at how your mother got on with your father, how well they succeeded at parenting. Was theirs a happy relationship, was you home a harmonious place to be? Would you say you came from a happy family? How did your father treat your mother? Was there respect? If so, was it mutual? Was their equality, or domination and submission? Did your father pull his weight at home and with child rearing, or was it all left to your mother? The answers to these questions could impact on your own approach to relationships in the environment of parenting. Will you repeat what you observed and experienced at home, or will you set out to change things, be different. Are you even aware of how your past experiences are influencing your approach to parenting?

The Druid Craft Tarot – The Empress

Product Link – The Druid Craft Tarot Deck

NOT MAKING THE SAME MISTAKES OUR PARENTS MADE

For men, The Empress is very significant. When she presents in her Upright state, it implies you had a good relationship with your mother, you respect and admire her. She exerted a positive influence and you would do anything for your mother. However, even though the Emperor may not appear in the draw of cards, if your reading pertains to issues you have with your partner or with co-parenting, we must look to how well your parents got on with each other, as therein could lie clues to current problems. If you grew up with in a happy home with loving parents who also loved and respected each other, this will likely rub off on you when it comes to your own relationship and parenting. If you saw your parents confide in each other, support each other, be there for each other, be equally proactive in your upbringing, then you will aspire to recreate this in your own relationship and family. History does have a habit of repeating itself, so we must be aware of the potential for making the same mistakes our parents did. You will need to take regular stock of your relationship and parenting to see if any areas need improvement. Are you doing the things you promised you would never do? Are you behaving like your own mother or father? Are you turning into your mother or father?

WHAT HAVE YOUR PARENTS GOT TO DO WITH IT?

When Upright the Empress is positive, but the intricacies of a relationship are complex. After all, you may be able to vouch for yourself, have come from a loving and caring family with parents who adored each other and their kids, but what of your partner or spouse? As this is about The Empress, the focus of attention must lie with the maternal influence on both sides. The Emperor, the Father, will be addressed when we come to him. So, if the Empress appears in answer to the status of your relationship and parenting or where problems are coming from, look to the influence of mothers on both sides.

The Empress

DOING WHAT YOUR MOTHER DID

We have already covered the overly-attached mother who can’t help but interfere in her offspring’s relationships, but in this context, we are looking at something else. How might the influence of either mothers be affecting your ability to successfully and mutually parent? Even when Upright, there may be areas that come to light. Doing something a certain way just because your mother always did it that way, may not be the right approach irrespective of how happy your childhood was. For example, the Empress may have seized full control of the child-rearing, was cossetting and over-protective. Her children were happy and heavily loved. In your current situation, repeating this behaviour may lead your relationship into trouble and cause upset in the family. Your partner may feel excluded, pushed out, of no consequence. Your children may also bypass your partner and go to you directly, thus undermining his/her role in their upbringing. You may mean no harm, but it is being done nonetheless. Knowledge of same is empowering for you can take steps to alter your approach.

SEX

Yoshitaka Amano Tarot – The Empress

Product Link – Amano Tarot Deck: Finding Happiness with Tarot Fortune-Telling (Shiwase o Tsukamu Tarot Uranai: Amano Yoshitaka Originaru Kaado 78 Mai) (in Japanese)

COME FORTH MY LOVER!

When the Empress appears in a sex themed reading, she speaks of sexual desire and attraction. Ruled by the planet Venus she promises love, fertility and sensual earthly pleasure. The sex associated with The Empress is not to be confused with that of the High Priestess who may be uptight, calculating or prudish. The Empress offers the full deal; love, passion (sometimes raw), intimacy and tenderness. She is warm and loving, offering a welcoming embrace to her lover. She doesn’t run rings around her partner where sex is concerned, ducking and diving, avoiding, withholding, manipulating or pretending. The Empress does not send out confusing signals to her partner or the one she is drawn to. In the Imagery she sits relaxed and stares right back at us. This suggests she likes sex, is comfortable with it, knows what she wants and is not afraid to ask for it. As she reclines on her cushions or bed, she smilingly beckons her lover forth, enticing him to come languish beside her.

African American Tarot – The Empress

Product Link – African American Tarot (English and Spanish Edition)

SEX – THE ULTIMATE EXPRESSION OF LOVE

The Empress is a passionate woman who likes to let herself go during sex or lovemaking. Whereas she does enjoy being taken in a frenzy of desire, her preference is not to miss out on the build-up, e beginning, middle and end, and then post-sex too. She will want to hang around for coffee and a chat after. She is affectionate with her partner or spouse, wanting to touch and be touched. She enjoys foreplay, the kissing and caressing, the nuzzling and whispered sweet nothings, the pillow talk. The Empress has little or no hang ups about sex. She is comfortable with the act, with her body and nudity. For her, sex is the ultimate expression of the love and deep feelings she has for her partner. Sex without love or feeling would leave her spiritually cold and empty.

World Spirit Tarot – The Empress

Product Link – The World Spirit Tarot

SEXUAL DESIRE

The Empress can appear to let you know that there is someone who sexually desires you. In answer to the question of what a certain suitor wants from you, she could imply it is sex. If this is a new person in your life, there is a good chance they cannot wait to see you, and while trying to be on their best behaviour and create a good impression, will find it hard to keep their hands off you. They think you are hot but don’t want to blow it by moving too fast. Wanting to find out if the relationship will become physical and the Empress appears, it is a good indication that, yes, it is heading that way. Sex is most likely on the cards and there is a sense of sexual energy building behind the scenes that is at risk of boiling over if kept restrained for much longer. You may not have to wait much longer. You might have been trying to take things slowly, not get ahead of yourself, not appear too keen or give the impression sex was all you were looking for. The Empress’ passions are aroused, and sex is not far away.

BE SURE BEFORE YOU MAKE THAT MOVE

However, do not seize upon the above interpretation as conclusive, resulting in you making a move that you believe is wanted or even encouraged. Check surrounding cards. Building sexual energy will be expressed through Wand Cards, Cups may want to concentrate on the romantic side, Swords may be too uptight, not ready, need more time to think about it. Pentacles may be encouraging you to do more work, to be patient, or they could also be ready and waiting for you to make a move. Whatever you decide, be careful. Do not take action based on a single tarot card. You may end up getting your face slapped or worse. She may not want to see you again if you get it wrong and make a bad impression.

Circle of Life Tarot – The Empress

Product Link – Circle of Life Tarot Deck

SEXUAL HEALING

When we think of The Empress body-wise, we might compare her to the High Priestess who drives herself to the point of exhaustion in the gym, her body tight, hard, bony and unyielding. Metaphorically we conjure up a more curvaceous, less perfect figure for The Empress, aligning her to the curvaceous nudes of Rubenesque art. Venus is the planet of love, and The Empress, Mother Earth, Mother Nature. She has the ability to connect spirit and flesh into a union of love expressed through the act of sex. The Empress remains fully present during sex, unlike the High Priestess who may go through the motions, her mind far away elsewhere. The Empress gives herself fully over to the act of sex. She does not fret over trying to conceal a wobbly tummy or sagging breasts during sex, instead letting whatever wants to hang loose, hang loose. In doing so, she can fully concentrate on enjoying sex and getting the most out of it. The Empress offers a lot more than the psychical enjoyment of sex. Sex with her has healing qualities. Those who have experienced pain, loneliness and suffering in previous unhappy relationships will experience a renewal and awakening initiated through sexual healing upon entering a meaningful relationship with the Empress. All the misery of the past can be erased in her loving embrace. Sexual healing can only occur when sex is connected to love.

The Portland Tarot – The Empress

MARRIED SEX / SETTLED SEX

The Empress turning up in a relationship or sex-themed reading can highlight married sex, or the settled sex found in long-term relationships. She can represent your long-term partner or spouse and highlights the domesticity that comes with marriage. This can sometimes change or alter the approach to sex as there is now an assumed security and stability. There may also be a sense of entitlement where sex is concerned, part of the deal of being in a long-term relationship or marriage. Being relaxed in the comfort of knowing that sex is available and nearby can take the edge off things and make it sometimes less interesting and exciting. Couples need to be aware of this. In the early stages of their relationship, when all was new, and sex was hot, they may have observed settled or married couples and decided there was something missing. They may have been very definite about never letting that happen to them. When caught up in the heady stage of love, romance and sex, it is unthinkable to contemplate ever feeling any different.

DOMESTICITY – KEEPING THE PASSION ALIVE

The danger is letting things slip, assuming the Empress is too busy or caught up with work and kids etc to have time for a sex life. The Empress has needs on all levels and wants to feel you are still attracted to her, turned on by her. She may act content and at peace with her set up. She does not need sex all the time as her relationship or marriage evolves, but she does need closeness, affection and intimacy. She will be very happy with a kiss and cuddle, or just to snuggle up close in bed before sleep. Unlike the High Priestess who may be manipulative or complicated, The Empress is quite an open book. What you see is what you get. A little love sent her way makes such a difference. It is only when she Reverses do we see her needy and demanding side. However, even when Upright, it is best not to neglect her for any sustained length of time. If you do, her mood will become quite low which then permeates her environment making everyone feel ill at ease. It is as if clouds have crossed the sun causing a chill in the air and a dim in light. She needs to know she is loved. The Empress has endless love to give, but she is not self-less. She does need to see that love returned to her by those she holds near and dear. Like a rose that turns to the sun for sustenance and growth, The Empress responds to love, affection, psychical touch and intimacy in the same manner.

Winged Spirit Tarot – The Empress

Product Link – Winged Spirit Tarot

DO NOT NEGLECT THE EMPRESS

The Empress is sometimes aligned with the pleasure principle, especially in her extreme state. The Empress courts pleasure and may have a high sex drive. She can be quite prolific in nature without the control exerted by the Emperor. It would be unwise to sexually neglect The Empress on the basis she is busy with kids, work or the domestic side of things. She still has sexual needs even though she may not have time. She responds beautifully to affection and physical touch. A passing hug, embrace or kiss from her partner or spouse as she goes about her busy day lights up her heart with radiant energy.

SO MUCH MORE THAN A ONE-NIGHT STAND

When the Empress appears as a representation of the physical side of a relationship or romance, we typically are not looking at a fling or affair. It is a good indication it will last. You, or the person you are pursuing wants much more than a one-night stand with you. They may not be interested in hopping into bed on the first, second, third or fourth date. If they see real partner potential in you, they will want to get to know you first and let the relationship naturally incubate. Sex will happen when the time is right, and when it does, it will have been worth the wait. The Sex experienced with the High Priestess is otherworldly, out of this world, on another level. One wonders why you would look for anything more? However, The Empress brings her partner fully into the current world, down to earth where pleasure can be experienced on an intense and realistic level. The Empress has so much more to offer than straight forward sex. No matter how mind blowing it might be, it will amount to nothing if there is no heart connection involved. Sex with deep love surpasses anything the High Priestess may have to offer. Sex with the Empress can be repeated, anticipated, looked forward to. She wants to come back for more, wants you to come back for more, and wants it to become a regular thing. With The High Priestess, you never quite know where you stand and whether you are in or out.

Tarot Apokalypsis – The Empress

Product Link – Tarot Apokalypsis Kit

GREAT SEX

The Empress is an expression of the Mother Nature Archetype. She is the Goddess of creation and procreation. Without sex, none of this could happen. She likes and enjoys sex. Therefore, she has a relaxed, no nonsense attitude to sex. She sees sex as a natural thing, a physical act between two consenting and loving adults. She feels no shame in her desire for physical pleasure as she understands her body was created to accommodate it. Far from been a prude or sanctimonious chaste virgin, she will approach sex in an open and honest manner. She does not shy away from talking about it. With a high sex drive, she will be the one who admits to ‘really liking sex’ when her friends are giving out about it or seeking to avoid it. She is sexually free within herself. Her presence in a reading can indicate a willing sexual partner. As she gets older, she will unashamedly do little to hide how sexually active she still is. This may be much to her offspring’s embarrassment who will throw their arms in the air and declare, ‘no, mother, spare us the details thank you!’.

The Empress by RainbowMoonJuice @ Deviant Art

LET’S MAKE A BABY SEX!

Because of The Empress being The Mother Archetype, we must look at her need for sex from this point of view. Sex is essential for procreation. She often turns up in readings when a couple are actively working at starting a family. Sex becomes different during this time. The focus shifts from the physical pleasure of sex to a desired result post-sex. Conception is sought, and this may find the Empress quite sexually active until she succeeds.

HOW HE/SHE SEES ME

You are seen as all-woman, a real woman, down to earth, warm-spirited, very feminine and sensual. Goddess-like. Regardless of how you feel about yourself or how you think you look, in the eyes of this beholder, you are very beautiful, very attractive, and yes, very sexy. This person is very, very, happy to see you and spend time with you. You are the person they look forward to coming home to. You are the most important woman in their life.

You are seen as the perfect partner to form a long-term relationship with them. They want what they have with you to last, to go on, to progress into something more. That you want to be in a relationship, want to be there for someone, to share your love; As someone they want to see more of, hope to get to know better. They want their relationship with you to go further, to grow, to last; You might be seen as the person they want to spend the rest of their life with, want to commit to. That you are the woman they want, the woman for them, the woman of their dreams; They see you as someone who is worth their weight in gold, that they have struck gold in finding you. They want to make you happy. They look up to you, and possibly worship you in a goddess sense; You are seen as the marrying kind, someone who wants to settle down in the traditional sense. They know they can rely on your loyalty and faithfulness and will be someone who throws their heart and soul into making a relationship or marriage work; They see a mature, down to earth person who wants to be happy, not someone who is complicated and tied up in mind games or playing hard to get; You are seen as open, friendly, warm and approachable. You are emotionally supportive and express genuine interest in people. That people are drawn to you. You are eager to get on with people and put them at ease; They see you as someone their family would strongly approve of and welcome with open arms. That you are a family-oriented person and are keen to meet their extended family;

You may be seen as very giving, generous and big-hearted. That you might be too giving at times, won’t allow others to help, wanting to do it all yourself.  However, you like to be appreciated, rewarded, made feel special, treated like a queen, want a fuss made of your birthday. Insist on making a fuss of your birthday too. That you like parties and celebrations, are family-oriented, love family gatherings and occasions; They see you as someone who likes to be pampered and spoiled. Someone who appreciates the finer things in life, personal luxuries, feminine things, flowers, jewelry. You are drawn to things of beauty and elegance. You love your comforts and indulgences. That you like to take care of your appearance, are always well-dressed and tended too. That although you love to give, give, give, you are happy to sit back and receive. That you always make time for yourself and your beauty rituals. That you feel good when you know you look good. That you like to be complimented on your appearance and creative works.

They think you are sexy. They sexually desire you, want to have sex with you. That you are sexually compatible. That you are sexually liberated and have a healthy sex drive. That sex with you is an act of love and lust, not lust on its own; That you like demonstrative love, expressions of love and not just words of love. You need to know that you are loved. They see you as very affectionate, warm and soft, sensual, like to touch and be touched. Love hugs, kisses and cuddling up. That you need closeness and intimacy.

You are viewed as someone who would make a wonderful mother or parent, are a natural mother, a domestic goddess. That you are broody. That you wish to start a family, are looking forward to getting pregnant, want to be pregnant, are pregnant. They may see you as someone who has great parent potential. They may see you as the person they want to start a family with, make babies with. That you are good with children; They might see you as heavily tied up with the children, too focused on the children, dominating the parenting; That you would make a perfect mother to their existing children.

You may be seen as the mothering type, someone who will look after and care for them. That you make them feel stable and secure. That you are a good home-maker; They may view you as trying to mother them; too smothering, bossy, controlling, wanting to do everything for them, fussing around them. They may think you treat them like a child.

You may be seen as the older woman. They may fantasise about you or have a crush on you. You may remind them of their mother.

Yes/No – Yes to success in love. Victory. Yes, great potential here, it feels right but you may have to wait (incubation/gestation). Yes, you are on the right track. Your hoped-for outcome with this person or relationship will reach fruition. Yes, your relationship is progressing nicely. No need to force anything as it is maturing on its own. This relationship will reach its natural conclusion. Relax, all is looking good. Yes, you are loved and cherished. Yes, your partner or love interest is mad about you and wants to take the relationship further. Your relationship has the potential to end in marriage. Yes, your mother approves of your partner choice.

Yes, this person is loving, warm, open and caring.

Yes, your relationship is going through a successful period where harmony, peace, love and contentment prevail. Any previous issues have been dealt with or overcome. The soul has been restored to both your relationship and home life. Everyone is feeling the love and willing to share it.

Yes, you are sexually desired/desirable. This person is sexually attracted to you. Yes, this person is anticipating sex with you.

Yes, to fertility and conception. Yes, the time is right. Yes, to starting a family. You are ready to have a child.  Yes, to a potential pregnancy (check for supporting cards). Yes, you/he/she will make a great parent. Yes, this person wants a baby or to start a family.

Yes, this person is looking for a mother for them self or for their existing children. Yes, this person wants to be nurtured and taken care of by you. Yes, this person is trying to mother you or take over. Yes, this person is already married or in a committed relationship. Yes, this person has children.

Yes, buy that luxury gift. Yes, to some spoiling and pampering.  Yes, they are worth it.

[greta-van-chaos]

I Will Possess Your Heart // Part 2

Oliver Reed x Reader

Part 1 < > Part 3

Warnings | Explicit sexual content, cursing, daddy kink, hairpulling, just rough sex in general, teeny bit of degradation, slapping (a teensy weensy bit)

Word Count | 2k words

Authors Note | You guys really have me writing a part two not even a whole day after I posted the first part LMAO... I'm thinking I might just make this into a full out mini-series, multiple parts all in the same universe, let me know what you think and if you have requests for stuff you want to happen!

~

The two of you sat and drank long into the night, getting to know each other a little better now that the ice had been broken. You'd never met someone so stuck up and yet so interesting and enigmatic. You'd think it was all a charade, that he was purposefully trying to be mysterious but the alcohol that loosened his lips didn't do much when it came to getting to know him more personally.

"I'm honestly glad you turned up on my doorstep, darling."

You consider him in the firelight and the genuine smile on his mouth makes your heart flutter. "I'm glad too--" You toast your glass to him and knock back a much larger gulp than you mean to "--made for quite an interesting evening."

"So, what kind of music do you fancy?" His accent adds a certain flourish to the sentence that brings a red tinge to your cheeks.

You're taken slightly aback by the random question but recover quickly despite your slow reaction time from the alcohol. "Uhhh, I like any sort of rock music, jazz is nice too. I'm not that picky."

He stands, quite abruptly and drifts over to a shelf with a record player and lazy stacks of new and old vinyl. "I've got plenty of jazz, why don't I throw some on and we have a little dance?"

"How romantic, Oliver." You jest, standing up to take a place beside him, watching him shuffle through the plethora of dusty records. Almost as if you were an old married couple, happily spending a night together like any other day, you rest your head on his shoulder and wrap your arms around his torso. His breath hitches in his throat and you can feel his heart hammering against his ribcage like a jackrabbit.

"I can be when I want to be." He breathes, finally sliding out a piece of vinyl and carefully setting it on the player. Your eyes are completely transfixed on his hands as he places the needle on the black disc and it begins to crackle before the music rings out.

A thought dawns upon you and you have to bite your lip to focus on figuring out how to word it. After a moment of you just standing, intertwined, watching the record spin you pull away a bit "Do you live here alone?"

"I do, yes."

"Why?" An odd feeling blooms in your chest, a sort of heartache. You're not sure why you feel this way but you know for a fact if you were living in such an expansive house all by yourself in the middle of nowhere you would be so excruciatingly lonely.

"I don't really have any other choice? Do I?" His voice is slightly pained and you regret asking.

"Let's dance." You take Oliver's hand and lead him to the open space of the living room carpet, hoping he doesn't speak again on the previous topic. His eyes are softer now and when you guide his hands to your hips they feel welcome and safe, not so sexually driven as how he was touching you before.

"I've never done something like this before." He admits.

"Dancing?" You giggle a little bit but when his expression hardens a bit you pull on a more serious expression.

"No, I've never spent a night with a woman doing things like this. It's always sex and then she's grabbing her clothes and running into the night."

"Are you that bad in bed?" You laugh and he cracks a toothy smile.

Oliver leans into your ear, lips brushing your neck, "Well, I'm sure you'll be finding that out for yourself soon enough, won't you pet?"

You bite your lip and sway to the music, just soaking in each other's presence. The once calm air in the room as begun to spark with tension and a sexual electricity you've never felt with another person apart from the man standing in front of you. It's not like you've never been with someone who's satisfied you and made you sweat but Oliver? He's different.

"You keep looking at me like that and you'll be finding out much sooner that you think." He practically growls. You push your thighs together subconsciously and he chuckles, "You are so fucking desperate for me, it's almost pathetic."

"Take me to bed, Oliver."

The mans eyes darken and he lifts a hand, lightly slapping your jaw "Sorry, pet, try again."

You clear your throat and look away from him but he takes your chin between his pointer finger and thumb and forces your eyes to his. You gulp but let the words pass your lips in a breathy whine "Take me to bed, daddy."

"Mmm, I will never get sick of hearing such filthy words from a pretty mouth like yours." Oliver lifts his thumb and sweeps it against your bottom lip before pushing it inside your mouth. You accept it gratefully and drag your tongue along the digit, pulling off with an obscene pop. "Christ." He huffs.

The next thing you know his hold on you has tightened and he's pulling your body against him with an excessive amount of strength. You hitch you leg up over his hip and he holds your thigh with a bruising grip. You can already feel him growing hard against you. Oliver rolls his hips, grinding against you lightly which draws an almost animalistic growl from his throat. Clearly his patience is wearing thin because eventually he taps your ass, motioning for you to jump up. Once secured around his waist he begins to walk out of the room, still attacking your lips feverishly as he carries you up the stairs. Normally you'd be worried about how dangerous it is for a inebriated man to carry and inebriated woman up the stairs without looking but you're so caught up in the passion of it all that you don't care.

Once through the door of his bedroom he sets you down and pushes you against the wall. He turns you around so your palms and the side of your face are flat against the wall and then hastily tugs down his pants, whipping his belt out of the loops and tossing it on the floor.

"I'm gonna fuck you until you're screaming for me to stop, sound good pet?"

You can only hum in response as he yanks the boxers he lent you down. You kick them away and spread your legs even more for him to which he gladly runs his cock up your soaked cunt. A cry escapes your lips when he pushes in without warning, pressing you against the wall as he fucks up into you.

"Fuck-- You feel so good daddy!" You're clawing at the wall, nails unable to find purchase and just scratching at the red painted plaster.

"Such a slut for my cock already." He groans.

Oliver grabs a fistful of your hair and pulls your head to the side so he can kiss your neck, a sweet juxtaposition to the way he's fucking you. Again you find that the tickle of his facial hair actually adds to all of the pleasure you're receiving and you arch your back so he pushes into your farther.

Somehow the heat in your stomach is building faster than before, mounting until you feel dizzy from how good he feels pounding into you. Surprisingly Oliver is very vocal, groaning and grunting and speaking nonsensical words of praise into your sweaty skin. You reach back to secure your hand into the hair at the nape of his neck and his hands fly to your hips to fuck into you even harder. You're both moving so fast and so in sync that you wonder if it was fate that you meant. You're getting so sentimental in your lust drunk state that it almost makes you laugh out loud but instead a loud moan escapes your lips when his fingers find your clit and he presses his chest flush against your back to properly get you off.

"Does that feel good, pet? You like it when I play with your pretty pussy like this?" A groan of pure lust leaves your lips and he gives your ass a slap when you don't respond with words. "I asked you a question." Somehow he's able to sound fully composed even as his pace falters.

"So good daddy-- I love it."

He seems satisfied when he doesn't press further but he's probably focusing on chasing his climax as he pace begins to grow even sloppier. You're already on the verge of cumming so when a particular thrust coupled with a swirl of his fingers makes him falter again you cum, hard.

"Fuck darling-- You're gonna make me cum if you don't quit that." He's referencing your walls fluttering around him as you come down from your climax but his words don't make you stop, instead you squeeze around him harder.

"Cum inside me." You whimper.

"Fuck me." He grunts almost sarcastically as he finishes, spilling into you just as you had asked him to. "You're a little devil, aren't you?" He chuckles, pressing a kiss to your temple as he pulls out.

"Of course." You jest, turning to face him and wrapping your arms around his neck. "You really aren't that bad Mr. Reed." He looks slightly perplexed when you place a kiss to the tip of his nose.

"Oh give me more credit, I just rocked your world, darling." He rolls his eyes when you slap his arm playfully. "D'you need me to do it again?"

The offer is tempting but you legs are screaming and your head is beginning to ache. "I think I'll take you up on that one in the morning."

"Sounds alright to me." He shoots you a signature smirk and then looks down and the smirk widens "I'm gonna have a hard time not fucking you again when you have my cum dripping down your thighs."

You face flushes a little bit as you look down but he doesn't expect what you do next. While locking eyes you swipe to fingers over the trail on the inside of your thigh and press your fingers to your tongue, sensually sucking them.

"You need to go wash up." His laugh is from his chest and you can't help but mirror it "Save all of--" He motions over your body with open hands "--that for the morning when I can properly fuck you again. Don't want to burn you out all in one night."

Oliver directs you to the ensuite bathroom and then says he'll be back with tea when he leaves. You take your time, splashing cold water on your face and brushing your teeth as best you can with your finger and some toothpaste. When he returns you've already made yourself comfortable in the bed, taking the side which had no books and trinkets on it's side table.

"You look lovely." He breathes, clearly not used to having a woman stay the night so willingly, for whatever reason.

You've noticed that he's changed into boxers and a t-shirt like the one he lent you. His necklaces dangle through his fingers and after he hands you your mug of tea he sets them gently on the side table.

"Those are really nice, where did you find them?"

He looks at you, slightly surprised. "The necklaces?" You nod and lightly sip your tea. "Oh, uh, I found them around some of the old thrift stores but I like to collect a piece or two when I travel."

"You travel?" The question isn't necessary but you want him to talk to you, tell you something of substance. Setting down your tea you snuggle yourself into his side, reveling in how good he smells and how warm he his.

Oliver doesn't quite know what to do with you but eventually he rests an arm around you and pulls you closer. Your eyes flutter shut and you listen to the steadiness of his heartbeat as he speaks. "I do, it's one of my many favorable pastimes." You giggle to yourself at the slightly condescending tone he's taken on which he corrects after a deep sigh. "Rome was my favorite, it was very beautiful."

All you want is for him to keeping talking and eventually work you into a comfortable slumber with his adorable accent. So you dance your fingers over his chest, eyes still closed and hum, "Tell me about it."

Part 3 besties?

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[lily-drake]

De-Aged

Jason: holy shit- she's so tiny!

Dick: *agitated* Jason, focus, what do we do??

Jason: *coos at the baby Marinette* I haven't seen her this small in forever.

Dick: we need- Jason! Focus! what do we do???

Jason: *shrugs* wait it out? I don't know.

Inspired by @bambicambi

Annoyance coursed through Marinette’s veins as she saw the new Akuma of the day.  Of course it happened when her family came to visit.  Looking up to the sky and praying for strength she turned her back to the chaos, something she would soon regret.  Her brothers were asking her what the heck was going on, and as she opened her mouth a baby pink ray of light hit her, and Marinette poofed and in her place sat 4-year-old Marinette Wayne.

Jason and Dick stared at the small child on the ground in shock and after the moments were over Jason eagerly picked her up and spun her around.

“Holy sh*!  She’s so tiny!”

Jason called out as he held the small giggling girl to his chest.  Dick, was rightfully frustrated and walking in small circles and quickly said,

“Jason, focus, what do we do?”

Upon hearing Jason making cooing noises, he swiftly turned to look at Jason.

“I haven’t seen her this small in forever!”

He exclaimed, nuzzling his nose against the small Marinette.

“We need-Jason!  Focus!  What do we do?”

Jason shrugged as he held Marinette against his hip.  She giggled and tugged at his jacket.

“Wait it out?  I don’t know.”

Dick opened her mouth, but stopped when Marinette began to speak.

“Jay-Jay!  Ride!  Ride!”

Jason’s grin grew and gently set her down while holding her hand.  He squared down and carefully released her hand.  He could not express the pure amount of joy he felt when she climbed onto his back and wrapped her tiny hands around his neck.

“Jason, have you just forgotten the weirdly dressed flying child that not only turned Marinette, but all of Paris into kids?!”

He…had forgotten.  But can you blame him?  Marinette was so tiny when she was a kid, and he hadn’t seen her like this in forever.

“Look, contact Zatanna while I keep her safe and distracted.”

Dick sighed in relief replying,

“Alri-wait a minute.”

Jason was already running with a giddily screaming Marinette.

“No fair, I want to cuddle my baby sister too!”

He sighed in frustration, and no he was not pouting.  Quickly pulling out his communicator he dialed Zatanna.

“Hello?”

“Hey, so I’m in Paris visiting some family, and this flying kid in really weird clothes is going around de-aging people.  Could you come see what’s going on please?”

“Pardon, but what?”

“Yea, it sho-“

Dick quickly ran through the streets dodging beams that were now directed towards him.  Why did stuff like this always happen when they traveled?

A few moments later a portal opened and he had never been more relieved to see Zatanna in his life.  Zatanna looked around and looked at the villain.  As she studied it and was about to jump in, a neon butterfly mask appeared over the child’s face and she realized what this was.

“I can’t do anything, sorry Dick.”

“What?!  Why?!”

“This is ancient magic, probably the most ancient magic in the universe.  There should be others…, see,”

She said pointing to a cat-like figure in the distance.  Dick stared in confusion, what was happening?

While Dick was trying to figure everything out Jason was having the time of his life with Tiny Mari.  He was especially thankful that when she was blasted that her clothes were transformed into a white t-shirt and overalls with lions stitched throughout them.  He had taken so many pictures of them.  We’re people running around everywhere scared, yes, yes they were.  But that didn’t stop him from enjoying as much time as he could with his tiny sister like he used to.

“Jay-Jay!  There’s a fairy in my pocket!”

“How is there a fairy in the Pixie’s pocket?”

He asked jokingly while swinging the hands back and forth!

“Lookin lookie!  It’s a Ladybug fairy!  She’s so pwetty.”

Marinette held Tikki in both of her hands and jumped up and down trying to get him to look.  Jason chuckled and looked down at the toy.  It was cute, he had never seen something like it before.  Then it blinked, and flew out of Marinette’s hand, and oh gosh, IT CAN TALK?!

“Marinette, you need to help Chat Noir defeat the akuma?”

“Akuma matata!”

Marinette called out with a giggle.  Jason would have laughed, if it weren’t for the flying bug thing talking to his sister, who was currently 4, telling her to help someone defeat the crazed villain.

“Woah!  Are you insane?!  Look at her?!  How do you expect her to fight?!”

The thing looked conflicted before sighing and saying,

“Well, do you want to fight it?  You just need to wear the earrings, I can run you through what you need to do!”

“No!”

Marinette screamed.

“I want to be like you and daddy!  It’s my turn to help people!”

“Marinette, you're too young.”

Tears began to well up in the small child’s eyes.

“I-it’s no fair!  You al-always say that!  I want to help!”

She finished stamping her foot definitely with a sharp glare.  Jason sighed in exhaustion and turned to the floating creature.  He mumbles under his breath,

“Can’t believe I’m letting this happen.”

He knew by the way Marinette was gripping at her ears and the definence in her stance.  He could easily take them by force, but he didn’t want to hurt her or make her angry and feel betrayed.

“Can you assure above all else that she will be completely and utterly safe.  I will join as well in my hero suit to make absolutely sure.”

“Yes, she has a partner as well who will watch out for her.”

He sighed in relief at that, but there was a new and very heavy weight on his chest that wouldn’t leave until this event was over.  He listened to the fairy tell Marinette what she needed to do and almost smiled at the determined face she was making.  Her cheeks were so chubby and-no, focus!  He pulled out an extra domino mask he always carried with him and zipped up his leather jacket.  When he turned around there was a burst of pink light and where Tiny Mari once stood stood his sister in the cutest outfit he had ever seen!  It was similar to his old Robin outfit, but closer to Tim’s as she thankfully felt that there needed to be pants.  She had small wings on her back with a black cape with red bottom edges that shielded them from view.  And in her hands was a tiny yo-yo.  Before anything else could happen, he quickly pulled out his phone and took pictures.  He wanted to show this to Bruce and brag, sue him.

Soon after that they both left to the rooftops.  He was honestly surprised by how easily she maneuvered around the roofs and how easily her yo-yo grappled and released from things.  They soon landed next to a Cat Woman knock-off who turned to look at them in surprise and exhaustion.  When Marinette saw him she quickly turned to him and tugged on his sleeve.  Jason crouched down and Mini-bug leaned close to his ear and whispered,

“Does Selie have a son?”

Jason snickered and glanced up at the kid.  He seemed to have heard them if the ears twitching and confused look said anything.

“No Pix.  He was just inspired.”

“Oh, okie-dokie!”

“So, I’m assuming you two know each other and she was hit out of suit?”

“Yep, basically.”

“Right.  Well, we just need to break the wand, but I can’t get close.”

“Little Lady, cast your charm.”

Mini-bug puffed up her cheeks making her old —and most adorable— thinking face before yelling out while throwing the yo-yo into the air,

“Lucky Charm!”

“A red and black spotted rubber bullet dropped into Mini's awaiting palms.  Jason promptly took the bullet and loaded it into his gun, it was the perfect fit.  The hideously dressed child flew over to them and flourished her wand creating the opening Jason needed.  With one quick shot the bullet flew through the air and hit the wand causing it to snap.  A black and purple butterfly began to fly out and mini quickly caught it.  She quickly released it bouncing on her heels in pure joy as a wide smile grew onto her face.

“Told ya I coul’ do it!”

“Yes you did, good job Pix.”

Chat Noir, who they hadn’t noticed disappeared, came back with the bullet and handed it to the small girl.  She threw the bullet into the air jumping up as well and yelled out,

“Miraculous Ladybug!”

Millions of Ladybugs flew through the air repairing damages and Turing people back to normal ending with Ladybug herself.  Ladybug looked around confusedly and saw Chat on her right and Red Hood on her left.  Memories of the past hour flashed through her mind and she promptly hid her face in her hands and a deep blush bloomed across her face.

“This is a disaster, a complete disaster.”

“I don’t know Bug, was it?”

Jason asked with a crap eating grin.

“Yes.”

Came her mumbled response.  Jason laughed and ruffled her hair, Marinette was too miserable to care.

“We should go make sure golden boy isn’t panicking too much, don’t ya think?”

Marinette sighed tiredly and nodded, I guess so.

“Sorry Chat, I promise I’ll explain later.  Bug out.”

And as quickly as she could she swung away with Red Hood laughing and not too far behind.

“B is going to hate that he missed this.”

He called through the air causing a loud groan to escape her lips.

“Don’t show him!”

“Too late Pix, already sent them all to the group chat.”

“I hate you.”

“Love you to Babybug.”

Marinette groaned again and Jason laughed all the way to where they found Dick and Zatanna talking in an alleyway.

Taglist:

@queenz-z @aespades @fandomsaremylifeline @stainedglassm @toodaloo-kangaroo @prettylittlebutterflie @trippingovermyfeet @liquid-luck-00 @unoriginalmess @buginetye @miraculouslydumb @aurcad123

[theonewiththefanfics]

Black Ice (one-shot)

Synopsis: Black ice is considered one of the most dangerous winter weather phenomenon. It appears after it’s rained or snow has melted and then the rapidly cooling air freezes it, leaving it as a shiny black mirror on the ground.  A deadly shiny black mirror. 

Pairing: Harry Styles x fem!Reader

Genre: angst, fluff

Warnings: swearing, mentions of hospitals and injuries

Word count: 8852

“God, Harry, it’s just one night!” Y/N exasperated, throwing her hands in the air. “One fucking night I wanna go out with my friends and have some fun. Is that really too much to ask?”

        “I haven’t seen you in two months!” he snapped back. “So, please fucking forgive me that I wanna spend a night in with my girlfriend and have her say ‘no’ one time, and make me a priority. Is it so hard to reschedule?”

        “Yes, Harry it is!” Y/N stood her ground. “Adam and I have been talking about this for three weeks before we could set a date and meet up. He fucking flew out here! To London! And it’s not my fault you haven’t been home in two months, so don’t put that on me.”

        “No,” he shook his head pointing a finger at her. “Don’t pull that shit on me. You knew about my job, you know how it can be, how much I have to travel.”

        “I get that, and I’d get your anger if I was fucking off with my friends on our anniversary without any notice or some shit, but I’m not! I made these plans ages ago. I told you about them! How could I have known you’d decide to ‘surprise’ me a week early?”

        But the thing for Harry was – he did think there was an anniversary to celebrate. It wasn’t an official one, and he hadn’t told Y/N how much the date meant, but that day was the day they’d met a year prior.

***

        He was in the middle of filming ‘Darling Don’t Worry’. This time they'd flown out of California to shoot a scene in the middle of the woods, in the cold of November, which as exciting as it was to have his acting career flourish, Harry wasn't too happy about freezing his ass off in the middle of nowhere.

Y/N, however, lived right next to those woods, her family house having been there for generations, while the location scouts of the movie had chosen the location because the aesthetic could double as the location of the woods behind the mansion.

        Y/N’d been out on her daily run (well, daily complaining because Y/N, with all her being, hated running, and thought it was a sign you were a masochist. But her best friend Adam loved running and hated going alone, so he bribed her with the promise of pizza afterwards), when they’d run into pitched white tents, filming equipment and barriers encasing a part of the path they were on.

        Adam’s eyebrows furrowed as he slowed his pace, and Y/N thanked god for that because she felt like she was about to pass out.

        “What’s going on here?”

        “Dunno,” Y/N huffed. “But we should probably leave.”

        But instead, Adam grabbed her by the bicep, dragging her forward to the set. “Nope. Come on.”

        “Adam!” she hissed. “What the fuck are you – “

        “Hi!” He flashed a woman standing by the railing a smile. “Could you-uh-tell us what’s going on? Why’s the path blocked?”

        “A movie’s being filmed. Sorry for the disturbance.”

        “Mhm, and when do you think you’ll be leaving?”

        That she hadn’t expected, given how typically when people saw a movie set, they’d be more than intrigued in getting into a shot or finding out about who were the stars, not when they’d be going away.

        “Oh, uh,” she stammered. “I’m not too sure. Depends if the snow starts falling and how much we manage to shoot. Sorry. But uh, would you be so kind and find a path around?”

        Y/N jumped in, flashing her a kind smile. “Yes, thank you. So sorry to have disturb –“

        “You do realise this is a public place?” Adam raised an eyebrow. “We have a right to be here.”

        “Adam, shut up,” Y/N groaned. “We can run around them, it’s not a big deal.”

        “But this is our route!”

        “Adam for fuck’s sake! It’s the woods, you don’t own them!”

        “Exactly!” he said. “And neither do they! They have no rights to infringe on our ability to get to the sea.”

        That’s when Harry had noticed her, and to this day Y/N had no clue as to why he’d fallen for her. He was conversing with Florence about the upcoming scene when his ears caught the very end of the conversation, green eyes snapping to where two people in running tracksuits stood.

        One of them was a tall burly man, muscles practically ripping apart his clothes at the seams, the other was a shorter woman, hands-on-hips, hair kept away by a headband which also covered her ears, and the most done expression on her face as she glared at her companion.

        They were talking with a nervous assistant; Harry could see by her stature and how her head kept snapping to the side in hopes of finding someone above her to deal with the two strangers.

        “Adam, I swear to god, I’ll punch you." Harry heard the woman exclaim. "Leave the girl alone! We can run around.”

        “But I –“

        “Adam!”

        “Fine,” he grumbled as he threw the assistant and apologetic look. “Sorry.”

        “ ‘S okay. Have my preferred cycling route as well, so yeah… Sorry.”

        Harry watched as the woman next to the person, Adam, shook her head and gestured to where the barriers curved around, starting up on a slow jog, and when they passed where he was standing by the trailers, he could hear them still arguing. 

        “Oh my god,” Harry heard her whisper while looking at the ground. “I’m friends with a fucking Karen.”

        “I am NOT a – you’re Harry Fucking Styles!” Adam shouted so hard, it startled Y/N, and when she looked over, it was like a deer in headlights before relaxing and both of them slowed their pace.

        “Sorry,” she gave him an awkward glance. “He’s a fan, but we’ll be going and stop bothering you...”

        “No, no,” Harry shook his head, putting his hands in his coat’s pockets and smiling. “ ‘S alright, you’re no bother. I’m always happy to talk to a fan.”

        “Yes, well, don’t encourage him. Soon enough, you’ll be besties, and Adam here’ll be turning your life into absolute chaos.”

        He scoffed looking down at his friend. “I’d like to think I’m taking you out of your boring routine, Y/N, and giving it some spice.”

        “Anyway,” she gritted out. “It was lovely to meet you, but uh, we should probably be on our way. You have to be somewhere.”

        Y/N’s eyes glanced over Harry’s shoulder, where a nervous AD stood, bouncing on her feet, a weary smile on her face as she caught the singer’s eyes and motioned with her head he was needed back on set.

        Harry nodded and wanted to turn back to tell the two to come by whenever they wanted (well mainly Y/N), but when he turned around, the two were already quite a few feet away. Just as he was about to leave, he heard Y/N shout, “Congratulations on the three Grammy nominations, by the way. ‘Fine Line’ was amazing.”

        “And that’s a compliment!” Adam hollered jogging backwards. “She only listens to shit from the early 2000s.”

        “Adam, shut up!”

        With that, Harry was left to watch the two disappear behind the trees, a feeling he was quite familiar with settling in his chest.

        It was three days later, when he saw Y/N approaching the set barriers, hands in her pockets, as she rolled her neck. Their eyes met, and even, from the distance, he could see her smile split apart her face, but when she just waved without the intention of coming any closer to the lot, Harry rushed to the side calling out to her. “Hey!” 

        “Hey!” Y/N responded chuckling and ducking her head down. “You alright?”

        “ ‘M alive. How ‘bout you? You doin’ fine?’”

        “The bar’s so low?”

        “I guess. Won’t be able to get you to nurse me back to health though, which is why I’m in the cold again.”

        She wiggled her eyebrows at Harry. “If you wanted to see me, there's no need to lose limbs or bits of yourself.”

        Harry hadn’t expected her to be so upfront, but he couldn’t lie and say he didn’t like it. Made it easier for him to understand if his advances were welcome or if he should back off. “So uh, no Adam today?”

        “No, he has a late shift at work. Which means I’m spared from the running.”

        “Not a fan?” he looked at her with a quirked brow, seemingly saying ‘you’re sure dressed like you are’.

        “Do I look like someone who likes stabbing pain in her side and having her heart ripped out of her chest?

        “You’re just not breathing properly.”

        Y/N sighed. “If one of you gives me any more advice about how to properly run when I don’t even want to run, I swear I’ll stab you.”

        “Okay!” he threw his hands up in surrender, laughing. “No more talk about running if I wanna keep my head on my shoulders. Where are you uh going? You don’t have to answer, I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

        Y/N squealed on the inside, but bit her lip to keep the grin away. She’d been dying to talk to Harry since they’d briefly met but had no real reason. Not that she had one now, but she’d had a horrible day at work and needed to clear her head, and what was better than the forest air (also she could scream there without anyone really caring). “You’re not, so don’t worry. I’m uh I’m going to the sea.”

        Harry’s eyebrows rose. “There’s sea nearby?”

        “You’re like a fifteen-minute walk away from it,” she chuckled, stuffing her hands in her coat’s pockets. “Should really be more aware of your surroundings.”

        “We’re in the middle of nowhere.”

        Y/N tilted her head. “Yeah, you’re kind of right. But it’s places like these where you can find the best spots.”

        “Will you show me then?”

        She looked at him with an unreadable expression, and he could only hope his nervousness wasn’t as apparent, because Harry was more than convinced his erratically beating heart could be heard miles away. But then she nodded, giving him a wide grin, making one of his own bloom on his face. 

“You sure you won’t freeze on your way there?” she said in a sarcastic tone eyeing him up and down, and Harry shoved her a bit.   

        He donned one of the standard down-jackets issued for the movie with winter boots, but given the costume underneath, he was chilled to the bone. “It’s bloody cold, and my toes are freezing off. How are you still standing?”

        “Insulated shoes and thermal clothes. Kinda boiling actually.”

        “I should steal ‘em.” He smiled at her. “Probably have frostbite by now.”

        “Wow, you people from the South UK really are weak.”

        Harry’s gasp made her smile as wide as a Cheshire cat. “How dare you!” He dramatically placed a hand on his chest, Y/N’s laughter erupting through the air. It cut through the yells and shouts from the filming crew, and made a warmth spread in his chest. “How do you know about the South versus North? You don’t sound like you’re from the UK.”

        “Studied there for three years; had loads of flatmates from all around, let alone course mates.” Y/N chuckled and shook her head. “And to say that I thrived on the chaos  was when you said North was better than the South would be an understatement.”

        “Well, I guess I know where your loyalties lie.”

        “Did you expect me to immediately swoon over you?” Y/N batted her eyelashes at him. “Oh, Mr Harry Styles. Your voice in ‘Kiwi’ was so good it fucked me to cloud nine. Will you please do that to me with your dick instead? Which you should take as a compliment again, considering kiwi is the only thing I’m allergic to.”

        “Wait,” he looked at her, eyebrows up to the middle of his forehead. “So you have heard my stuff?”

        “Well, I don’t live completely under a rock. I did say 'Fine Line' was amazing.”

        “But you don’t really like it?”

        Y/N shook her head. “ ‘S not that I don’t like yours or other pop stuff, ‘s just that I have a preference, and I guess it’s, as Adam said, ‘early 2000s shit’.”

        A sly smile appeared on Harry’s face. “But could that include by any chance 'One Direction'?”

        “Afraid not,” Y/N sighed giving him a pout. “When you came onto the scene, my heart was already taken by a boyband. And I can be a lot of things, but I most definitely a loyal bitch.”

        “One band at a time kind of gal?”

        “Exactly.” She beamed. God Harry had never wanted to kiss a person that bad. 

        “Duly noted, but I will need to know who they are, and how many graves do I have to dig? You know, for research purposes.”

        “Going method now?”

        “What’dya mean?”

        Y/N shrugged sniffling a bit from the frosty weather. “Looked up a little bit about the movie. Need to know what kind of people might be around in the area. Psychological thriller. Wife. Rich husband. A dark secret. My guess – someone’s dead and buried. Also, the huge pit we walked past was kind of a give-away.”

        He paused for a second before nodding. “Fair enough.”

        A comfortable silence fell between the two as Y/N motioned with her head to where they needed to turn and made their way onto a new path when she spoke. “ ‘S not that I wasn’t a fan,” Y/N shrugged glancing at Harry from the side. “The songs were really catchy, but I guess I got tired of them? Like they were on the radio so much, it was a relief I didn’t have to hear the five of you singing about how I don’t know I’m beautiful.”

        Harry threw his head back in a laugh. “Don’t worry. Sometimes we’d get sick of it ourselves. But umm, ‘Fine Line’… You said you liked it… Do ya’ have a favourite song?”

        Y/N cringed. “Is it cliché if I say ‘Golden’? Because it’s ‘Golden’. I’m a sucker for a slow and then a ‘bam!’ kind of an opening.”

        Harry shook his head. Now he was the one biting back a grin. “ ‘S not cliché. Was one of my favourites to write, so I’m glad you appreciate it.”

        “Also, it makes me feel sunny? If that makes sense? Like – like when I listen to it, I feel warm and safe and just happy...”

        He’d be lying if he said his heart wasn’t pounding in his chest at her words. Warm. Safe. Sunny. “Well,” Harry cleared his throat to keep the words ‘One day I’ll marry you’ at bay. Fuck, he'd only known her for like twenty minutes! “I’m glad you like it more than my previous stuff.”

        “You just love putting me in uncomfortable situations, don’t you?”

        He smiled, nudging her shoulder with his, and was just about gearing up to take a breath and ask Y/N out (before he could ask to marry her), when quick steps from behind him drew their attention. 

        Dressed in a typical 50s housewife dress with a black coat on top, Florence Pugh came to stand beside them, and Harry swore he saw mischief twinkle in her eyes as she raked them over both people and then settled on Harry’s companion.

        “Hi!” she said giving Y/N a bright smile, and a wink to Harry, which passed the other girl’s head, given how she was absolutely fangirling right now. “I’m Florence.”

        “I – yeah – I – you – I love you,” Y/N finally breathed out. “Fuck, I just, you know, 'Midsommar' was a fever dream, but I absolutely loved it, and I can’t wait for 'Black Widow' to come out. Oh my god, I think I’m gonna pass out.”

        “Please don’t.” She laughed grabbing onto Y/N’s shoulder. “Feels like I already know you, but I’ve been dying to meet you actually. Created quite the commotion yesterday.”

        You know how they say men can think of absolutely nothing, like have a completely blank page in their head? Yeah, Y/N was having that exact moment. 

        Florence tutted crossing her arms over her chest and looking at Harry with mock disappointment. “But Harry here just kept talking about you, without any intention of inviting you to the trailers, so I had to take things into my own hands.”

        “You’ve been wanting to meet me?” Y/N breathed out, hands going into her hair, looking at Harry. “Oh my god, what is happening? Am I hallucinating?”

        “No, you’re not,” Harry grumbled glaring at Florence. “Unfortunately. But we were on our way to the sea, so I’ll see you back on se-“

        “Hello there,” Chris Pine’s smooth voice interrupted them, as he extended a hand for Y/N to shake as he jogged up to the trio. “I’m Chris.”

        “Wow, your eyes are even bluer in real life.” Her own Y/E/C ones widened. “Did I just say that out loud?”

        “You did,” Chris chuckled, “but I most certainly take it as a compliment. You said you were going to the sea?”

        “Uh, yeah,” Y/N breathed out still gazing into Pine’s eyes. “Wanna join?”

        Harry wanted to scream, but he couldn’t really. As much he wanted to tell both Florence and Chris to go away, he didn't. Seeing Y/N’s eyes light up as the two other actors conversed with her, laughed and joked around, made his heart expand.

        It was insane to him, that a woman he’d seen twice in his life could have such a huge impact. It was like she’d been his missing part. Well, no. Harry didn’t like that notion – that the ‘right’ person would complete someone. People were complete on their own, but it was true to him that there was someone out there that’d make each and every moment special, someone who would help the other become better, but also hold them accountable when needed. 

        They wandered around the seashore, which like Y/N had said, was a fifteen-minute walk, for about half an hour before turning back to the woods.

        By that point, she’d somewhat calmed down, and could actually comprehend what Chris and Florence were saying to her, and it was rather enjoyable to ask all the questions about Hollywood and the industry most people wouldn’t say on the record. 

        At around four PM when all of them got back to set and Olivia came to tell them they were wrapping up for the day, Florence, and Chris split from Y/N, telling her to come by whenever she wanted, while Harry said he’d walk her to the end of the trail.

        “You know I’ll be fine. I grew up here, know these paths like the back of my hand.”

        “ ‘S alright,” he shrugged his shoulders. “I’m sure they won’t mind much if I come back ten minutes later.”

        “You know, you’re not how I thought you’d be.”

        “What’dya mean?”

        “I – I don’t even really know… just not how I imagined you.”

        Harry didn’t know what to really do with that information, but the look on Y/N’s face most definitely didn’t seem like she meant it in a bad way. In fact, her shy smile and fleeting glances told him otherwise. At least he hoped he read her features right.

        They said goodbye with soft ‘see you laters' and he watched her throw one last glance at him over her shoulder before he himself retreated and ventured to the trailers to start de-shedding the character of Jack for the night.

        Harry plopped down in his seat with a groan, fishing out his phone from the pocket while the hair and make-up team did their work, taking the products off his face before applying moisturiser to the stressed skin.

        Florence poked him in the cheek, and he swatted away at her hand, looking up from Instagram (or his attempts to find Y/N with just knowing her first name). “What’s wrong?” she asked, poking his pouting face again.

        “She literally fangirled about everyone but me.” He huffed sliding down even further in his seat. 

        Florence raised an eyebrow. “Jealous, Styles?”

        “No,” he scoffed crossing his arms. “Why would I be jealous?”

        “Because literally both mornings that we've got here, you’ve been fidgety, keeping a watch of the path, and didn't calm down until Y/N appeared just now. So I’d say you’re absolutely smitten with the girl and are jealous because she’s more of a fan of us than you.”

        “I know she likes me.” His eyebrows furrowed. “I think. She hasn’t told me to fuck off.”

        “She’s a stranger you met in the middle of the woods. You should hope she likes you. But not too much. Otherwise, it could so easily become a scene out of a horror movie.”

        Chris bit his lip looking at Olivia, who’d come in the trailer after having seen the group come back with an almost heartbroken gaze – it was clear as a summer’s day Harry was struck by the girl, but they had to face the music. “Harry,” he started. “You – you do realise we end filming here in two weeks, right? And she’s a local.”

        “And?” his eyebrows furrowed at Chris’ words.

        “You’ll be leaving in two weeks for another three months of filming, while she stays here. I don’t – I don’t want to see you hurt, but you have to realise that most likely nothing will happen.”

        “And what makes you say that? Maybe she could come with.”

        “Y/N is her own person with her own life, job and friends, which, as it seems is all set here.”

        “Besides you don't really even know her,” Olivia said as well. “It's been two days."

        “Sometimes a day is enough.”

        A silence settled over them, as Harry tapped his phone against his nails.

        “You guys, come on!” Florence came to his defence. “He likes her. Why not give it a shot?”

He'd flashed her a thankful smile and mouthed a 'thank you' to which she just gave him an encouraging nod. She was on his side. She believed he could do it. And he did. Using Florence's faith in him as a catalyst, a day later when Y/N had gone on her run with Adam, Harry had excused himself and joined the two. 

        Adam was thrilled to the bone, but he was also competitive, so after ten minutes of trying to persuade the woman to run faster so he could beat his previous time, he took off on his own, with a promise of meeting up by the shore. That’s when Harry grabbed Y/N by her bicep and stalled them both, confusion written all over her features.

        “I uh,” he started. “I wanted to ask you something.”

        “Yeah, sure. Go ahead.”

        “I – “ he stuttered taking in a deep breath. “I – uh – and you have zero obligations to respond, but uh – I was wondering if you’d like to go on a date with me sometime?”

        That made Y/N do a double-take. “You want to go out? On a date? With me?”

        “Ye – yeah.” It was uncertain how the word came out, but it felt so good to say it. “Yes, I really do.”

        “Sorry.” She shook her head looking at the ground with furrowed brows. “Sorry’s just, kinda hard to believe it.”

        “ ‘Nd why’s that?”

        “Well because the first time we met, I looked like a sweaty mess, the second, I could barely function around your friends and co-workers, and now, well now I look like a sweaty mess again.”

        “So?”

        “I just –” Y/N laughed but waved him off. “Never mind.”

         Fear instantly took hold of his core at her statement, so he rushed to salvage what could be salvaged. “No, I mean if you don’t want, you - you don’t have to say ‘yes’. I’m not gonna be upset or any –“

        “Harry!” This time Y/N placed her hand on his shoulder to stop his ramblings. “I’d love to go on a date with you.”

        “You – you would?”

        “Yes.” Her smile blinded him like the golden rays of sun which broke through the overcast sky. “I’d like to very much so.”

        But it was Y/N’s tearful huff, a storm cloud compared to the warm light from his memories, which brought him out of the fond thoughts and into the icy right now.

        “Because unless it revolves around Harry Styles, it doesn’t matter, right?” she let out a pained laugh. “Because unless he’s there to have all the spotlight on him, it’s not important. Unless it’s not something he wants to take part in, it immediately needs to be cancelled or rescheduled because god forbid someone made plans without him.”

        He grunted in disagreement. “You know that’s not what I meant!”

        “No,” she snapped, snatching her purse and coat. “I get it. Very clearly. I’ll show myself out.”

        “Don’t be so dramatic!”

        She scoffed, glaring at him. “Call me when you get your head out of your ass.”

        The door slammed shut, and Harry sat down onto the sofa to scream into a pillow.

***

        Y/N’s sight was blurry as she drove down the street. A light snow had started to fall over London, so she was twice as careful, knowing Londoners had zero clue how to function when snow hit, and no one had winter tires.

        “Fuck,” she choked out, wiping away at her cheeks.

        She’d had fights with Harry before, it wasn’t like they were perfect. From the outside they looked like nothing could ever be wrong, but they were human. They had flaws and tempers and ideas and beliefs, and sometimes they clashed, but it’d never been as bad as it was that night. 

        She loved Harry, Y/N truly did. She’d even had dreams of the two of them in some far-off cottage in the Italian mountains living a domestic life, but she also just wanted one night to herself. To let loose and think about her own needs and wants, while Harry was away doing the same. It wasn’t selfish, not in her mind. 

        It’d been her who’d uprooted her whole life to be closer to Harry, not the other way around. She was always the one cancelling and making new plans with her family or friends just so she could spend a spare second with Harry. She was there for his sleepless nights and there for his knock-out concerts. Why couldn't he let her have this one thing?

        She was sitting by the wheel at a red light taking in deep breaths to calm herself down. 

        The light turned green, and her hand was slightly shaking as she changed gears.

        Y/N released the clutch and pressed down on the gas.

        Two lights came rushing from the side.

        She gasped.

        A sharp pain went through her side.

        And then it was all black.

***

Anne was going to rip Harry a new one, as she rang him for the fifteenth time, but he still didn't pick up. After the accident and the nurses being unable to contact Harry, they obviously called Y/N’s parents which were next on the emergency contact's list, but given how they lived outside of the UK and the next flight was only in four days, they immediately reached out to Anne, begging for her to go be with their daughter while they got there.

“And please tell Harry to fly over as well!” Y/N’s mum had cried. “I – I know he has work, but please.”

Anne had been shocked to hear Y/M/N ask that, having assumed he was already there, but she wasn’t going to let them get to Harry before she set him straight herself. 

In the beginning, she’d been kind of sceptical, but after spending an evening together where Y/N, her and Gemma all did wine baking, and it had ended up in a disaster in the kitchen with the three of them crying from laughter while Harry stood at the entrance completely baffled and just so done with them, Anne knew Y/N only had good intentions with her son.

        Anne’s love for her only grew from that point on, when she also realised just how much Y/N’s love language was giving. It wasn’t the kind of ‘hey, look, I bought you some fancy thing, now love me’, it was ‘hey, I saw how much you wanted this, I noticed how much it’d mean to you, and I love how happy it makes you. And if it reminds you of me, that’s just a bonus’, and Anne couldn’t help but become as protective of Y/N as her own kids. 

        But at that moment, as finally, after her twenty-seventh attempt, Harry picked up with a gruff ‘ ‘ello?’, Anne was about to burst with rage.

“You get to the hospital right now!” she hissed into the phone.

“What are you talking about?” There was a tremble in his voice. 

The thing was, for two days since Y/N had stormed out, Harry’d been feeling sick. He thought it was due to the stress from the fight and from the pressure his label was putting on him, but now he understood it wasn’t that. It was his instinct telling him something bad had happened, and at Anne’s words, the bad feeling that’d settled in his stomach made his blood run cold. “Mum, what’s wrong?”

“Y/N was in a car accident, and you didn’t bother to pick up your phone.”

“I –” He stammered unable to process her words. “What? Mum? No…”

“You’re her emergency contact,” Anne spoke. “The hospital tried to call you a billion times, and you didn’t pick up.” 

And that’s when he remembered all of those calls from unknown numbers. He thought they’d been some crazed fans who’d gotten his personal number, so he’d just blocked them. “Mum, no.” Harry choked out. “I didn’t mean to – we fought – mum…”

“She’s at St. Helen’s. Please get here.”

He immediately ended the call, and in the span of twenty minutes was at the hospital, which Anne was sure to scold him for because there was no way in hell anyone who didn’t speed would be able to get to St. Helen’s in less than forty minutes. The second she saw her son burst through the door, tear tracks down his face, all the anger and disappointment vanished. 

“Where is she? Is she alive? Y/N!” he yelled across the hallway. “Where is she? Mum! Where’s Y/N?”

“Gem.” She patted her daughter’s knee as both of them stood up from where they’d been sitting at the chairs outside the recovery room assigned to Y/N. “Get a nurse, please.”

Gemma didn’t need an explanation or reasoning seeing Harry’s wild eyes, erratic breathing and shaky hands. 

“Mum!” He practically sprinted after seeing the woman, grabbing her by the shoulders.

“Calm down, Harry,” she shushed him, pulling him in for a hug and feeling his whole body tremble. “Calm down, it’s alright. Gem’ll get you some help, but you need to breathe.”

“I – I’m not the one who needs help!” Harry pretty much screamed. “I need to know if my girlfriend is alive.”

Anne spoke in a calm voice as to not agitate him even more, and her heart broke at the sight of her son so utterly broken. “Harry, you’re about to have a panic attack, and you’re no use to Y/N in that kind of state.”

“So.” He took in a chocked back breath. “So she’s alive?” He didn’t know what he’d do if the answer was anything else but a resounding ‘yes’. There was no version in his brain of where his life could possibly lead but down if he had to go on without Y/N.

“Yes,” Anne nodded, smoothing his hair away from his face, and watching as he took in a deep breath of relief. “She was just wheeled in for her second surgery. Should be out in about four hours. ”

All over again his insides froze. “Second? Mum, tell me the truth – how bad is it?”

“Harry, this is routine,” Gemma put a reassuring hand on his shoulder having returned with a nurse behind her, the man keeping a close eye on Harry and his behaviour. “They did as much as they could the first time, but their priority was on the worst injuries. This one is just to set things properly.”

“Set everything right like – “

“Like bones and stuff…” Gemma shuddered, trailing off. “Y/N broke her hip, dislocated her kneecap, her ankle was shattered and she fractured her collarbone. They took her in so that the bones could be properly placed together and there’s a lesser chance of complications not only while healing but later on in life. But can you please sit down? So they can help you as well?”

“I – alright,” he conceded, taking a place on one of the stiff plastic benches, as the nurse came to him, took his pulse, gave him an inhalator just in case and some herbal tablets to help him relax a bit.

“You said they focused on the worst injuries.” Harry looked at his mother. “What were those?”

Anne sighed, leaning to sit back on the chair next to him and ran a hand through his hair. “A piece of debris punctured one of her kidneys. The bleeding was pretty intense, but they say it was salvageable, so she’ll still have both of them. Gem donated some blood.”

“Thank you,” Harry whispered, looking over at his sister who wiped a stray tear away from his cheek.

She shook her head. “There’s nothing to thank me for. Y/N is family. If she’d lost the kidney, I’d give her mine in a second.”

“The worst they’re worried about is the head injuries,” Anne said. “Luckily, she got away without anything major, but she definitely has a concussion and minor whiplash to her neck, so they want to keep an eye out for any side effects that could arise. They have another surgery scheduled for her in a week if recovery goes as planned. To take the stitches that won’t dissolve out and put in the ones that will.”

        Harry sagged against his mother’s side, her palms soothingly running up and down his back. “She’s gonna be alright, love,” Anne muttered in his hair, pressing a kiss to his temple. “She’s strong. She’ll be okay.”

        It was comforting for both of them – for Anne to have her youngest in her arms, to know he was safe and sound, and for Harry to be held by his mother, the person who always knew how to comfort him when times were rough, and at that moment, they were the roughest they’d ever been.

        “You’ve got some nerve to be here.” Adam’s seething voice pulled Harry away from his mother’s embrace and watched as he rounded the corner with a coffee cup. He was quite sure he was keeping his temper well in check from how hard he was gripping the Styrofoam cup. “Fucking ignore her for two days while she’s laying in the hospital, and appear when it’s convenient for you? Is she some fucking toy for you to use when you want?”

        Anne’s tone was consoling and pleading. “He didn’t know.”

        “The hell he didn’t, he just didn’t want to know! They called you!” Adam pointed at the nurse’s desk. “And you let them go to voicemail. And then, better yet, you fucking blocked the number.”

        “I didn’t know it was the hospital,” he weakly defended himself.

        “Because you didn’t bother to find out.”

        He didn’t have anything to say to that. And not that he really could think of anything when the surgery ward’s doors swung open and they watched as a nurse wheeled Y/N’s gurney back inside the room, while another wheeled her saline bag along with. 

It was a terrifying sight to see. Her face was basically nothing but a swollen piece of flesh, bruises and scratches littering her cheeks, a neck brace to keep her head from moving while one leg was wrapped in a full-on cast, the other in one up until her knee and her left arm was in a sling.

        He’d had nightmares about her before. Most of the times it was about Y/N leaving him because she could no longer do it, could no longer commit to the hectic lifestyle that came with Harry, and as he screamed, banging on the invisible window that separated them, she just walked away, his sobs carried by the wind in the other direction.

        “You should go inside,” Anne whispered motioning with her head to where the nurses checked the monitors and how stable Y/N was. “I know you had a fight, but she’ll want you to be there when she wakes up.”

        “How,” Harry gulped back the lump that’d risen in his throat. “How do you know? How do you know she doesn’t want me to just disappear? I wasn’t there when she needed me, I was – “

        Anne put her hand on his cheek. “Because when she woke up yesterday morning for the first time, you were the first person she asked for. You. She wants you there. And it’s the least you can do for her.”

        He nodded, then took a deep breath and entered Y/N’s room. Watching her lay in the bed, unmoving, without her usual grumpy features as she slept, made Harry sick to the stomach so much so, he thought he’d have to call back the nurse.

        It was some twisted version of Sleeping Beauty, yet he knew a true loves kiss wouldn’t awaken her. Y/N just laid there, small breaths making her chest rise and fall, not even a flutter of her eyelids.

        Harry had spent countless night watching her sleep, looking at how her lashes fluttered as she dreamed of something; how her forehead creased and small, incoherent noises passed her lips as she talked to someone in her mind.

        Now, he was surrounded by none of that, only artificial reminders that she was still alive and fighting to get better.

        With uneven steps, Harry made his way to the chair which’d been stationed next to her bed (he was convinced beyond belief that Gemma, his mum and Adam had all taken shifts to sit there, to be there for Y/N), and much like a king who knew he was unfit for the throne, Harry had to swallow a lump as he took the seat.

        “I – I don’t know if you can hear me…” Harry took hold of Y/N’s palm and let out a sob of relief when he felt it was warm, not cold like he’d feared. “But I’m here for you. I’m not leaving. Not unless you want me to, so until you wake up…” there were so many words, so many apologies he wanted to say, but kept them at bay. Y/N deserved to hear them when she was conscious, so instead, he said, “I’m here, lovie. Get some rest, I’ll be here…”

        With that he put his head on the side of her bed, twisting his face so he could look up at her, watch her chest rise and fall in a steady rhythm, and fell asleep to the sound the beeps of Y/N’s beating heart.

        While he slept he dreamt again, the same terrifying dream of Y/N leaving, only this time she did look back at him, but her face was all wrong, her neck bent in a way it shouldn’t be, and eyes covered in a milky white. 

        “You weren’t there, Harry,” she said in a voice void of emotions. “So why should I be there for you?”

        Harry was 100% sure if he’d been hooked up to a heart rate monitor while he slept, people would think he was going into cardiac arrest, but it sure would’ve shown it flatlining as his green eyes swept over his lover’s frame to check his nightmare hadn’t become a reality, only to be met with two Y/E/C sparkling orbs looking back at him, giving him the softest gaze in the universe.

“Hey,” Harry’s tone was quiet, afraid to bring even the littlest of discomfort to Y/N given her state, and he had to physically restrain himself from sweeping down to bring her in a hug. 

What he saw on her face made his heart leap to his throat, as she smiled, genuinely happy to see him, lifting up her right hand, the only limb without a bandage on to cup his cheek. “Hey, love.” Her voice was scratchy like nails on a chalkboard, but to Harry, it was an absolute symphony. “Are you alright? Your eyes are puffy. Have you been getting enough sleep?”

        “Fuck,” Harry choked on his tears looking up at the white ceiling before back at her, complete disbelief in his blood-shot eyes. “You’re the one lying in a hospital bed, with casts and bandages all over you, scheduled for a third surgery, and you’re asking me if I’m alright?”

        If Y/N could, she would’ve shrugged as if that wasn’t the most self-explanatory thing in the world. “I’ll always want to know if you’re alright. ‘S not exclusively you that can care for people, you know.”

        And there she was – his sarcastic, allergic-to-kiwi-but-‘Kiwi’-loving girl that never ceased to amaze him, as she made sure everyone else was alright before herself. And that made Harry break down. 

“I’m so sorry Y/N. So fucking sorry. I – god – I – there are not enough words in any language to say how fucking sorry I am. I should’ve been here, should’ve never let you leave. This is all my fault.”

Through all that, through his choked back sobs and crying, Y/N’s hand had steadily remained on his cheek, wiping away the tears from underneath one eye before switching to the other side and making the little pearls of hurt disappear with just her touch. 

“Harry, are you the weatherman?”

That was not what he thought she would say. “I – what?”

“Do you control temperatures and have not told me?”

“N – no?”

“Were you the guy who ran the red light?”

“No.”

        “Then how is this your fault?”

        “I – “ he stammered. “I shouldn’t have let you leave. I should’ve gone after you, found a way to make you stay or – or should’ve fucking stopped being so selfish and driven you to see Adam yourself.”

        “Harry, had you tried to make me stay nothing would’ve changed.” Y/N sighed letting him lean into her touch, as she bit her lip, thinking over her words. “I was just so pissed, that I think anything you would’ve tried to do, would’ve only made it worse. And I’d rather be here with you than alone in my apartment crying in a tub of Hagen Dazs because of a broken heart.”

        “You-you've got your priorities completely backwards.” He wasn’t laughing when he said that, but Y/N was.

        “Maybe.” She raised her eyebrow. “But I don’t think so. The bones will heal, but the amount of love I have for you… I’m afraid you’ve ruined the thought of a future without you in it. We’ll talk,” Y/N swallowed hard. “We need to talk, but when I get better. Right now, I just wanna hold your hand and have you hold mine as I try not to kick the nurses trying to take my blood for tests.”

        It felt inappropriate for Harry to smile, to feel happy about how Y/N hadn’t told him to go screw himself, even though he felt like he deserved it, but fuck was it impossible not to when his body felt so light, and her love chose to invade the dark corners of his mind to fill it with golden warmth.

        She fell asleep not long after their small conversation, body too tired and in need of recovery, but like he’d promised, he was there for her when she awoke again, this time to a more familiar Y/N as she glared at the coffee cup in his hand, while he sipped, a ring clad palm gently pushing away strands of Y/H/C hair from her face.

        “I hate that you can drink coffee.”

        “Yeah, and why’s that?”

        “Because I can’t.”

        “I’ll happily buy you as many coffees as you like. Once you get better and are allowed to, of course.”

        Y/N snorted and then winced as the action caused pain to shoot through her body. “Knowing you, it won’t be a cup of coffee or a coffee machine, but a fucking coffee chain restaurant.”

        “Would it be that bad to own one?”

        Her eyebrow rose at him in an incredulous look. “You know I can’t bake. Coffee shops include pastries, and I’m not the one who worked in a bakery. I can cook, I can clean, but make me make muffins from scratch, and I’ll set your house on fire.”

        “You already did.” Harry laughed. “Gem and mum helped.”

        “They supplied the wine, so I’m putting 60% of the blame on them.”

        “You do realise that equates to 30% of the blame on each of them, and most of it is still on you?”

        “Shut up,” Y/N smiled, weakly pushing against Harry’s arm, but the motion made him happy to know she was trying. “I was just in a car crash, so forgive me for not being that great at division.”

        A knock at the door made Harry look up, Y/N not even attempting to turn her head to see who’d interrupted them, given how the first time she’d tried it with the neck-brace, it’d hurt so bad she’d passed out.

        Her doctor was a man in his mid to late fifties with greying hair, Y/N’s medical record file slapped underneath his arm.

        “How are we doing today?”

        “Better than yesterday, I guess,” she responded. 

        “Well, you were out for most of it, so I’d say so.”

        Y/N and the doctor chuckled, but Harry didn’t, as he thought of how bad, how absolutely tired a person has to be to sleep for a whole day. He’d had those days himself, and that was from being exhausted from work. He couldn't imagine what being in a bloody accident would feel like. 

        The doctor stepped forward a bit and extended a hand to Harry, introducing himself as Dr Tate, while Harry rose in his seat to accept it, but not wanting to move away an inch from Y/N.

        “You must be the boyfriend.”

        “I – uh – I can only hope I still am,” he let out a nervous giggle, which made his girlfriend slap his arm, a furrow on her face.

        Dr Tate looked Harry over from head to toe, eyebrow raised at that, but all he said was, “We tried to contact you, seeing as you’re Miss Y/L/N emergency contact, but the nurses said it couldn’t go through.”

        “He was filming overseas.” Y/N butted in, clearly having rehearsed what to say beforehand. “Flew over as fast as he could. I’m the luckiest person in the world.” Her tone was soft as a feather, but Harry’s stomach felt like it was filled with rocks. 

        “Is there anything I can help with?” he asked hoping to be given some sort of a task to do, to allow him to redeem himself some way.

        “Well, actually yes. One of the injuries Ms Y/L/N sustained was a concussion,” the doctor said, “which could lead to some complications like headaches, migraines, spotty vision or amnesia.”

“Amnesia?” Harry wanted to vomit. It had crossed his mind, but having a professional say it made it all so much worse. 

        “Yes, and we’d need someone to be with her as much as possible, 24/7 would be desirable, to keep an eye on.”

        Harry honestly hadn’t heard anything past the amnesia part, mind spinning in a circle that just screamed ‘she’ll forget all about you’.

“It’s nothing to worry about too much.” Dr Tate was quick on his feet, seeing Harry’s blank stare, and tried to diffuse any possible spiralling. “With Y/N’s cognitive abilities and having repeatedly excelled at the test without a single stutter, it’s very unlikely she’ll have those side effects. 

“But it’s still a possibility, right?”

The doctor nodded, giving Harry a kind smile. “Which is why I’m informing you of it. To keep an eye out to see if anything changes so you could come in if necessary. But as I said – Y/N’s memory has proven to be intact so far. And I always say to trust the facts.”

“Harry,” Y/N placed her hand on his. “You know I won’t forget you.”

“I’ll uh, give you two a second.” The doctor exited leaving them alone, an almost sad silence over both of them. 

“God I almost lost you to some idiot running a red light with no winter tires, and now you won’t remember me. And – and even with everything you’re going through, you’re still trying to protect me? Why did you lie? I – I wouldn’t have cared if you said the truth that I was an asshole.” Harry dragged both hands over his face, trying to keep the cry’s at bay as Y/N ran her hand through his hair in an attempt to calm him down.

“I’d prefer to think,” Y/N shrugged trying to tease him and make him crack a smile, “me being dead would be the worst-case scenario, not me forgetting you. And of course, I’ll protect you. Your reputation matters to me. Just because we had a fight doesn’t mean I’ll immediately run to everyone I can and say how shitty of a person you were in those specific ten minutes.”

But Harry’s lips didn’t quirk up, the tears didn’t disappear as the painful grimace on his face wasn’t replaced by the crow lines next to his eyes from smiling so much. “What if you – what if you forget you love me? What do I do then? I know I sound selfish and like the biggest fucking dick, but as pathetic as it is – I can’t go on without you. I don’t know how I could.”

Y/N’s heart broke at his words because if the roles were reversed if Harry forgot about her and fell out of love, she didn't know how she'd survive. She’d had those fears before, when he was away filming and she couldn’t follow; she’d been terrified because what they’d had was so new, he could easily move on, find someone better, someone who was familiar with his lifestyle. But any time those thoughts came to her mind, Y/N reminded herself of what she’d do. And that’s what she told Harry.

        “Then you make me fall in love with you again. You’re great at that. Make me love you more with every passing moment.”

        “And – and if you don’t fall in love with me again?”

        Y/N shook her head. “Impossible, Harry. You made me fall in love with you after barely two hours spent together. And well, if you put your mind to it… who knows how much deeper I’ll fall.”

        For the first time in two days, Harry leaned down and pressed his lips against Y/N’s. The kiss was soft and sweet, a barely-there touch, but it meant everything. It was a promise to one another to love unconditionally, to remind the other of it at every passing moment; it sealed their future to be spent together, and neither wanted it any other way.

        Harry’s phone rang, eliciting a whine from Y/N as he pulled away to answer it. “It’s Florence.” He pecked her lips one more time. “I’ll just tell her to call back.”

        He turned to the side for a second muttering a soft ‘hey, can you –‘ before whatever Florence told him made him pull away and extend the deivice towards Y/N.

        “It’s for you.”

        “For – for me? Florence is calling me?”

        Had the two women become friends? Yes. But didn’t mean Y/N had an easier time not fangirling about her. 

        “Hi, Flo,” she breathed out, looking at Harry with wide, happy eyes. “Yeah, I’m alright.”

        Harry sat there watching as his love talked to someone she looked up to, and someone he cared about. He hadn’t told Florence, but her encouragement meant the world to him, as she was partially the reason he’d gotten together with Y/N. After all, she’d been the one on his side from the very beginning.

        Y/N giggled like a crazy person after the call ended and she handed Harry back his phone. “Florence Pugh just called to give me well wishes.” She gasped looking at Harry. “Do you think Chris Pine will too?”

        “God, I love you,” Harry laughed with her, pressing their foreheads together.

        They’d be alright, they’d make sure of it. No matter if a disagreement arose, egos needed to be put in check or black ice covered the roads. They’d get through anything. 

Tags (crossed out wouldn’t take):

Everything tags: @lumelgy @palaiasaurus64​ @supernaturalbaesduh​ @breezy1415​ @crazy--me​ @thatawkwardlittlefangirl​ @sea040561​ @staryeyedgirl​ @deathbyarabbit​ @s-c-a-r-e-d-po-t-t-e-r @reblogger-not-a-blogger @m-a-t-91​ @dalilx​ @i-need-a-hero-i-need-a-loki @maladaptive-ninja-returns​ @averyrogers83​ @in-the-end-im-still-trash​ @gallifreyansass​ @dewy-biitch​ @avxgers​ @unlikelygalaxygiver​ @magicwithaknife​ @ollyoxenfrees​ @bnhvrdy​ @tvwhoresblog​ @celebsimagines @thatkindofgurl​ @sj-thefan​ @teenwolflover28 @lestersglitterglue​ @im-squished​

Harry Styles tags: @sarcasticallywitty15​ @breezykpop​ @girlboss99​ @harrystylesdoesntknowiexist​ @alliyjane​ @sirtommyholland​

A/N: Listen, Linda, those pictures of Harry on set does things!!!

Also the being allergic to kiwi - that’s me. Like legit it’s the only thing I’m allergic to. I always hated how they tasted like pain, like it made my mouth sting and feel like pins and needles before going numb, and according to professionals, that’s a sign of being allergic. But I love ‘Kiwi’ the song. 

P.S. my tags are always open :)

P.S.S. I don’t take requests, sorry :(

[heartsofbeskar]

the red wolf

chapter two: a stolen gift

oberyn martell x fem!reader

warnings: mentions of death, a smooch™

words: 3.6K

excerpt: A few tears slipped down your cheeks, despite your best efforts. Oberyn gently swiped them away, bringing his forehead to rest against yours. You could feel his warm breath against your face, and it was pleasant, and smelled of the fruit filled Dornish wine he loved. His lips were tinted from it as well.

“Is there anything I can do, little wolf? I hate to see you this way,” he whispered to you, even though you were alone and shielded by so much greenery.

“Let me give you something,” your voice shook as you matched his whispered tone. “Before he can take it from me.”

a/n: the second chapter is here!! im having such a good time writing this tbh; this chapter is based on the first half of the season 4 episode the lion and the rose; im tackling it in two chapters since its a doozy

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The fresh air gently blew across your face as it cascaded over the top of the walls of Winterfell. You leaned on the wooden railing, smiling as you watched your brothers play below. They held wooden swords, clashing them against each other clumsily. Ser Rodrik would surely chastise them for the sloppy footwork, but you enjoyed their dramatics.

Creaking of the boards alerted you to a new presence approaching. Robb smiled gently as he came to stand beside you. He wore a fur robe draped across his shoulders, and you marvelled at just how broad it made him appear. You turned to face him, smoothing the stray furs into line.

“When did you turn into a man?” You teased. He brought a hand up and lightly pinched the skin of your cheek.

“Around the same time my twin sister became a woman.”

You swatted his hand away, but laughed. His eyes held a softness as he turned them away to watch Bran and Rickon, who now wrestled amongst the haybed. You reached for his hand, squeezing it.

“Something’s troubling you.” He didn’t bother to deny it; you had studied your twin’s face from the day you had both been born, after all. “Are you not excited to see the King?”

“I am, but …” He shook his head. “I cannot say I am thrilled with the prospect of my sisters departing at once for King’s Landing. Or my twin sister marrying a man there.”

“Robb,” you sighed. “We can’t stay children forever. Someday, this—” you gestured at large to the courtyard, “—will be yours to lead, along with the entire North. I will be your ears wherever I land — King’s Landing, or otherwise.”

He nodded, but still didn’t meet your eyes again, You pulled him forward by his hand, wrapping your arms around the soft fur on his shoulders. You rested your head on the plush surface, as he wrapped his arms around you in response, both of you leaning into the familiar embrace.

“I will come to see you often, this I promise. My heart will always be with you, in the North.”

—

Your hand was sweating as you laid it on the ornate handle of the large door of Lord Tywin’s office. It was silent inside and you prayed to the Old Gods he was out, having forgotten your appointment entirely. But he had requested it of you specifically via a handwritten parchment, so you knew that you would not be so lucky.

With a large breath in, you pushed the handle down. The door seemed to scream at you as it swung open; stay out, don’t come in here, run for your life from this wretched place all together.

As you suspected, Tywin was inside, head hung low over a parchment he was rapidly writing on, spread over his desk. He didn’t look up as you entered, though he must have heard you.

You slowly closed the door behind you, fighting the urge to flinch as it slammed back into place.

“Come here, girl.” Still, Tywin didn’t look up as he called out to you. Your hand clenched at your side at the name, but you quickly forced it to relax, taking short steps towards his desk. When you reached it, you stood in front of it awkwardly, waiting.

With a large flourish of the quill, he finally set down the writing implement, casting his eyes up towards you. He leaned back in his chair, assessing you. For what, you weren’t sure.

“Lady Stark,” he mused. “With the untimely death of all three of your brothers…you are now the true heir to Winterfell and the North.”

You swallowed thickly, pushing the unbidden images of Bran and Rickon from your mind, their young, innocent faces threatening to fester there. “My lord, I was of the understanding that the Boltons had been granted control of Winterfell and the North.” In exchange for the betrayal and murder of my twin brother, his unborn child, and my mother. You let the ending hang in the air between you.

Tywin tapped the side of his face, his eyes calculating. “Yes, it is true as Hand of the King, I have named Roose Bolton as Warden of the North. But we both know who the people of the North will rally to, if they are called. And that will always be a Stark, as long as one lives.”

You clasped your hands in front you, pushing them into the fabric of your dress, trying to dampen the sweat that collected on them. “My lord … I apologize, but I’m afraid I do not understand.”

He rose now, smoothing down the front of his tunic. Stepping around the desk, he approached you. Slowly, he took your chin in his hand, turning your head to varying angles.

“You are a virgin, yes?”

A chill ran its way up your spine. You nodded.

“Good.” He released your face, turning his back to you as he faced the windows overlooking the city, hands clasped behind his back. “Were you my daughter, I would’ve had you married long ago, but I suppose Ned Stark’s inadequacies are my opportunities. You will be wed to my eldest son, Jaime, once I convince him to quit this Kingsguard business. You will bear him sons, and they will be the heirs to both Winterfell and Casterly Rock.”

Your hands shook in front of you and you clasped them tighter together. When you didn’t say anything in response, Tywin turned his head to look back at you.

“You would do well to interact with him during these upcoming festivities for the King’s wedding. Now go.”

As if you’d be sprung free from a trap, you hurried to the door, eager to be free of this room, which felt like it had hardly enough air in it to breathe. You grasped the handle again when Tywin spoke one last time.

“And girl—” You froze, gripping the handle, breath caught in your throat, and the sudden anxiety gripped you that he would tell you to stay away from Oberyn Martell. But all he said was, “—shut the door behind you.”

—

You didn’t think you could stay away from Oberyn, even if Tywin had asked. It had quickly become a routine, him waiting across the path from the building which held your chambers. You clung ferociously onto the small shred of something predictable in the sea of chaos that this city had washed upon you.

As you tied your bodice behind you hastily, you craned your neck to look over at Sansa, where she was still nestled in the blankets behind you. Her side rose and fell softly in the rhythm of sleep. Padding over, you knelt down, pressing a light kiss against the crown of her head. She rustled momentarily among the sheets, but didn’t wake.

Oberyn was standing in the usual area, arm extended overhead to pry some fruit off a nearby tree. With a small grunt, he freed one that was round and reddish in colour — you were still so unfamiliar with the fruits that grew this far south.

Flashing you his enticing smile, he extended it out to you. You took it with gratitude, allowing him to loop your opposite arm through his. He was warm, the warmth of his skin radiating out as if he’d trapped the air of Dorne within his very body and brought it with him to King’s Landing.

He paraded you superficially through the garden paths lined with Lannister and Baratheon guards, their eyes smoothly looking over the pair of you, some giving small nods in greeting, used to the timely walks you took.

You took a turn down a hedge lined path, the green walls rising high above your heads, and the guard stationed near the next turn leaning back, his view obscured. Oberyn placed his hand gently at your back, pulling the branches back around the gap in the hedge you had found some days prior. You both slipped underneath.

The other side contained an obviously neglected portion of the gardens, some weeds overgrown and flowing out of their beds. Wildflowers had begun to bloom as well, their colours mismatched and vibrant, contrasting to those in the rest of the gardens that were tended to regularly. You much preferred these ones.

You sat on the nearby bench, tucking your skirts in around your legs, allowing the weight of the pretense of happiness to slip off, your shoulders relaxing. Oberyn sat beside you, his knee touching yours, heat radiating from the spot. You turned the still uneaten fruit over in your hands.

“You look far away today, little wolf,” he murmured. “Is it the King’s wedding?” He lightly brushed a lock of hair over your shoulder, fingers remaining to play with it.

“No,” you sighed. “Well, yes and no, I—” You paused, meeting his dark eyes. He stared back into you, waiting patiently. You wanted to lose yourself in his eyes, to dive in so deeply you could not see anything beyond them. “I spoke with Tywin Lannister.”

Something flashed in those eyes, briefly, but unmistakably. Still, he didn’t push you for any detail. He brought his hand down from your hair, settling it on your shoulder, thumb rubbing back and forth. It sat on the edge of your gown, and occasionally his skin came into contact with the skin near your neck. You suppressed a shudder at the feeling.

You finally broke eye contact with Oberyn, unable to look at him for the next words. “He intends for me to wed Jaime Lannister. As soon as he can convince him to leave the Kingsguard. Perhaps he will even overturn their oaths, so that Jaime can marry regardless …” You trailed off, shaking your head.

“What would you want? If you had the choice?” His eyes were warm when you looked back up, his brow furrowed. His free hand clenched where it sat in his lap.

“I don’t know, honestly, I … I thought I would be able to make these choices with my Father, but now—” You bit down on your lip harshly as a sob threatened to work its way up and out of your throat. Oberyn’s hands quickly came to cup your face, holding it steadily as you took deep breaths. “The Lannisters … have taken my home, my family. I don’t want to give them my future as well … there are so many things I don’t want Jaime Lannister to have.”

A few tears slipped down your cheeks, despite your best efforts. Oberyn gently swiped them away, bringing his forehead to rest against yours. You could feel his warm breath against your face, and it was pleasant, and smelled of the fruit filled Dornish wine he loved. His lips were tinted from it as well.

“Is there anything I can do, little wolf? I hate to see you this way,” he whispered to you, even though you were alone and shielded by so much greenery.

“Let me give you something,” your voice shook as you matched his whispered tone. “Before he can take it from me.” When your hands slid up to the back of his neck, you knew the implication was clear.

He swallowed thickly. “I do not want to take advantage of you when you are upset, little wolf.”

“Please.”

It was both a second and an eternity before he brought his lips to yours. Your heart pounded in your chest as his hands tightened on your face, guiding your head as your lips slid against one another.

After the first few presses, he stopped, though he didn’t pull back, your breath intermingling in the miniscule space between you. Your eyes were screwed shut, but you raked your hands up, into his hair. He gave a breathless laugh before crashing back into you, lips pressing insistently now, the taste of his sweet wine permeating into your mouth.

Firmly but gently, his lips pried yours open, hot breath pouring into your mouth, filling your lungs. You felt yourself begin to shake with the intimacy of it. It felt as if he were providing you a new sense of life itself, with every touch, every breath, every sound he made. You had no idea how long it had been.

He swiped his tongue, wet and hot, over your lower lip, before taking it between his teeth, pulling it with him as he finally retreated from you.

With a heavy sigh, he reached an arm around your waist, resting his cheek against yours, and you lamented that you couldn’t see his eyes. You couldn’t even imagine the storms within them now.

You breathed heavily against his cheek, winded as though you’d been practicing your riding. You pressed him tighter against you, turning to plant a kiss onto the edge of his beard. His free hand twisted up into your hair.

“Thank you.”

—

Your hands drifted through the copper strands of Sansa’s hair, twisting the locks delicately around each other, as your mother had taught you. You smiled as you recalled how Sansa used to sit for hours, just letting you practice braiding in her hair, happy to receive attention and affections.

By the Gods, she had changed.

You pushed the thought aside as your hands left her, and you leaned over to peck her cheek, which had been dusted with rouge. “You look beautiful.”

Sansa wouldn’t meet your eyes in the mirror, staring at her own hands curled in her lap. You laid your hands on her shoulders, squeezing lightly.

“Sansa … this is a day to celebrate. Because you are not the one marrying him.” She looked up to meet your gaze, her eyes brimming with conflicted emotions.

“But they made me marry his uncle. A man decades my senior, an imp, I …” She shook her head. “He hasn’t hurt me, but that doesn’t mean he won’t. Joffrey had to have gotten his sense of cruelty from somewhere.”

Your hands tightened where they held her. “I will never let him touch you. Or anyone, Sansa. I mean that.”

She stood, shaking off your grip. She was taller than you now, all long lines and elegant neck and the deep, irreconcilable sadness of her eyes.

You wondered if she saw that in yours, too.

“And what if you’re not there?”

You wanted to tell her that you always would be, that no force of man or the Gods could take you from her. But the words caught in your throat. The words your mother and father had told you, as well. Words that had proven not to be true, in the end.

A knock on the door from Shae saved you from the moment. She escorted you out into the bright southern morning. Everyone you passed seemed to have an extra bounce in their step, an extra swing to their arms, extra wide smiles on their faces. Apparently it didn’t matter how awful the King was, if there was still a wedding to throw.

You had to admit the attitude was infectious. And a well needed relief, after the months you had spent waking in terror, your dreams filled with your sister being married to King Joffrey, irreversibly tied to him by the laws of Gods and men.

The King’s breakfast was being held in the gardens, in full bloom now and having been prepared for weeks for this event. A long table sat as the clear focal piece of the area; Tywin, Cersei, and Cersei’s young son Tommen sat there already. Cersei and her father were discussing something in a low voice, despite the loud levels of ambient noise.

A chill shot down your spine as Tywin’s sharp eyes fell upon you, and you looked away quickly.

“This way, my lady,” Shae urged Sansa towards the direction of the King’s table, and you gave her hand a reassuring squeeze as she left your side.

It was clear the breakfast would not be starting until the King arrived, so you wandered the elaborately decorated area.

Everything seemed to drip in gold, the sheer grandeur of it all overwhelming to your eyes. Tables were laden with every type of fruit and cheese you’d seen since arriving in King’s Landing, and some you hadn’t seen. You spotted one of the red, sweet fruits that Oberyn had picked for you the other day.

“Lady Stark.” Jaime Lannister approached where you stood, hands awkwardly clasping behind his back. You’d heard the rumours from the maids that he’d returned from captivity with one less hand. You hoped Robb had been the one to take it.

“My lord,” you greeted, giving a shallow curtsy. You weren’t exactly sure what the appropriate address was for a man who was not your betrothed but likely would be once he bent to his father’s will.

“Are you enjoying the … uh …” He swallowed. He gestured with one hand — a flesh one — to the surroundings. “... festivities?”

You nodded. “Yes, it’s all very beautiful. You must be very happy to be here to see the King marry.” You knew the words came out somewhat clipped, tense, but you could do little to smooth them.

“I— well yes, it’s been…” He trailed off, clearing his throat. His eyes shifted around the area, seeming like they didn’t want to settle on you where you stood. “I … I know this is no consolation, but I admired your mother. She was a strong woman. A strong mother.”

Swallowing thickly, you cast your eyes down to the table, hand clenching at your side, eyes burning suddenly with the weight of his words.

He started to flounder, obviously putting together that this was not the right thing to say, but before he could sputter himself into a frenzy, a warm hand slid over the small of your back.

“Lady Stark, I was in search of your company.” Oberyn was there, his hand a steady weight against you, reassuring. “If you will excuse me, Ser Jaime.” He flashed a dashing smile at Jaime, who nodded eagerly for relief.

“Thank you,” you sighed, as he led you away from the buffet table. He stopped you once you’d reached a round dining table, which you assumed he’d been seated at. Turning you slightly, he placed a hand to your cheek, looking at you intently. Heat rose to your face as you wondered who was watching.

“Was he bothering you?” he asked, his voice impossibly low.

You shook your head, eyes unable to tear away from his. “No, no, he was just … no.”

For a moment you both stood there, unable to move, until a serving aide passed close by, snapping the tension like a matchstick. Oberyn’s hand left you, pulling out a chair for you. He sat beside you, posture relaxed as he poured goblets of wine, the sweet aroma wafting from the cups. He placed one in front of you, noticing your brief hesitation.

“Do you drink wine?” He smirked, watching as you held it beneath your nose.

“I have tried it, but …” You eyed the contents. It was dark in colour, so rich you couldn’t see through the liquid to the bottom of the cup. “At feasts in Winterfell. I always thought it tasted vile.”

He laughed at that, his head thrown back, and you admired the column of his neck, the golden skin, the muscles you could see move beneath the skin, the smattering of stubble that came down from his beard. You wanted to run your lips up it.

“Try it,” he insisted, bringing his own goblet to his lips. “They do not know how to make wine in the North. A Dornish wine will change your life.”

You smiled at him over your cup, raising it to taste the drink. Sweetness bloomed on your tongue, filling your mouth with tastes of fruits you’d had and fruits you never could have imagined. Heat seemed to follow its trail down your throat.

“Do you like it?” He smiled at you. His hand casually reached up, trailing up and down your arm.

“Oberyn …” You eyed his hand wearily. You couldn’t bring yourself to push it away, but you knew it was too bold of him to touch you so knowingly in the open. At the King’s wedding breakfast, no less.

He was interrupted in whatever he was going to say by the arrival of the King, who settled at the head table, where Tyrion had joined Sansa. A line of lords, ladies, and nobles brought forth gifts of all kinds. Oberyn rested his arm on the back of your chair. A goblet from Mace Tyrell, graciously accepted. A book from Tyrion, which Joffrey scoffed at.

You could feel the tension roll off of Oberyn in waves as the Mountain approached the table. You placed a hand on his thigh underneath the table, where no one could see, squeezing there. He carried a sword, which he placed on the head table. Tywin stood.

“One of only two Valyrian steel swords in the capital, your Grace, freshly forged in your honour.”

Valyrian steel. Freshly forged.

The words were ringing in your head as Joffrey excitedly unsheathed the sword, swinging it wildly.

“Such a great sword should have a name. What should I call her?”

Calls came out from the crowd around you.

“Stormbringer!”

“Terminus!”

“Widow’s Wail!”

“Wolfsbane!”

Your breathing was heavy.

Joffrey smirked. “Widow’s Wail. I like that. Every time I use it, it’ll be cutting off Ned Stark’s head all over again.”

You shut your eyes, hand unintentionally grasping tighter onto Oberyn’s leg. He gently pried your fingers off, and you turned to apologize, but he just flipped your hand over, intertwining your fingers, hidden under the table covering.

And as you looked at him, you thought you could see that same irreconcilable sadness in his eyes, too.

—

taglist: @asta-lily @pedrostories @rpcvliz @xsadderdazeforeverx @elinedjarin @qhbr2013 @punkerthanpascal

[7soulstars]

hello! can i request something funny with thranduil? ony if you're comfortable with writing itof course.

he took y/n in *like Elnord did with Aragorn* but she is a huge troublemaker,always pulling pranks on elves or sneaking to the woods and putting herself in danger, giving him many heart attacks in the process, yet he can't stop loving her.

*screams* I love this !! Of course I’ll write something based on this ! Let’s go !!

Erevan Ilesere’s Petal 

Pairing: Thranduil x Immortal! Reader

Warnings: Cavity Inducing fluff, Angst if you squint, Decent writing ??

Summary: No matter how much of annoyance Y/N is,Thranduil cannot stop adoring his lady. 

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

Erevan Ilesere ; The elven god of mischief and tricks

Nobody knew who Y/N was, what she is, where she is from or why was she found in the center of the clearing at the heart of the forest Mirkwood. Neither did she. She knew nothing of herself except her name. But that didn't intrigue Thranduil, the blue petal mark etched on her skin did.

The battle of the five armies had been a turning point in Thranduil’s life, he was at calm with himself, but at the same time he felt lonely. He let his son go on an adventure that he’d not know when he would return from, he was at peace with his wife’s death.He had to let her go.Though she would always have a special place in his heart. He had to focus more on his people, flourish his kingdom and move on. But he felt empty.

He felt alone.

So went he found Y/N heavily injured at the clearing, he didn’t hesitate to take her in.

Y/N was different. Not in normal mannerisms she was not. It was unexplainable. She was different.

After she was taken in by Thranduil and healed, she said she knew nothing of her kin or where was born. All she remembered that she had been living the life of a ranger for as long as she recalls.

She had always been alone.

But that never stopped her from being vocal. She was bold, so bold that she would barge into the court meetings to give the most random suggestions, make jokes or even put flowers in Thranduil’s crown during it. And he would always let her, sometimes even smiling.

The elves didn’t expect it. Valar! No one on Middle Earth would have. 

Y/N became the most adored individual in the entirity of Mirkwood. She made the place happier, the forest was healing and things got better.....

But everyone has things others do not enjoy about themselves. Y/N did too. She was chaos in a bottle. 

Once she had covered onions with caramel and gave it to the palace guards claiming they were caramel apples. The other time she had paired along with with Mëludir, Lindir’s brother who was at Mirkwood and had filled the sweet Lembas bread with mayonnaise instead of cream which had everyone at the dinner table spit it out except Elrond who as wierd as it seemed, took a liking to it. She had put a rat inside Tauriel’s hair, having her scream across the hall. And Rumil and her had filled Haldir’s shoe with mud which had forced the two to hide for the entire day later with Y/N hiding behind Thranduil and his robes flinching everytime Haldir was yelling at her.

“Lady Y/N this is not a joke I had those shoes cleaned yesterday and now you have ruined them! And Rumil you are no less! Is this how you treat me? Your Gwanur(brother)?? Lady Y/N that is not it-”

“Haldir enough leave her be”,Thranduil ordered as he hid you behind him even more as you clenched his robes.

“But-”

“I had helped her put the rat in Tauriel’s hair....are you going to discipline me too?”

“Apologies nin aran (my king), I am just simply worried she will get herself in trouble.....”

“Hmmm you are dismissed.”

With that Haldir had left pulling Rumil along with him. Thranduil looked down to see Y/N poking her head out from behind him and giving him the biggest and most sweetest smile possible. The elven king let out a chuckle as he shook his head. Freezing when she gave him a hug before she ran out mouthing a thank you. 

Thranduil would always side Y/N, even if he wouldn’t admit that she would scare the life out of him everytime she would do something dangerous, the others would warn him about the dangers she puts herself into but he would refuse to believe them. It wasn’t that he believed she wouldn’t do something like that but it was because he believed Mirkwood would be impossible for her to get out of without help.

But oh how wrong he was.

Ever since Y/N came to Mirkwood a few decades ago Thranduil’s daily schedule had always been the same. Wake up, do formal chores (like bathing, having breakfast with Y/N etc.) ,attend court and hear his people out, roam around palace halls or in the kingdom, spend his free time with Y/N and then spend his time researching something in the library before sleeping. This night was no different except there was an erractic knocking on the library doors. Y/N’s lady in waiting pushing through with a very alarmed look on her face. Thranduil cocked an eyebrow at her, ready to yell at her to disturb him at this time of the night. But the look on her face made him wait for an answer.

“Your Majesty, Lady Y/N she- she-”

“I would appreciate if you complete your sentence”

“She dissapeared !”

Thranduil’s eyes widened. An unfamiliar look passing across his face as he unseathed his sword and speed walked out of the library.

“HALDIR !”

“Lord Haldir and the patrolling team is looking for her in the city right now my lord ! She is nowhere to be found !”, the elleth contiued following him. 

“SEARCH EVERY CORNER OF THE KINGDOM !” ,he yelled at her before mounting his elk and riding into the forest.

He searched for her, by the clearing, the spiders nestings, the old bridge, the narrow pathway that lead to the darker parts of the forest. But she was nowhere. 

“Y/N !?”,he yelled for the 14th time, his voice hoarse is eyes seaching frantically. Orcs and Wargs always preyed at night it wasn’t safe.

Splash

He heard the movement of water not much far from where he was he panicked, his elk moving swiftly but gracefully enough to not startle whatever was making the noises but this action was quite ruined by Thranduil yelling out the missing lady's name startling everyone before his eyes. Both him and his elk froze. There Y/N sat, by the backwaters looking at them with eyes widened as big as saucers, along with who seemed like mermaids that swam away as soon as they saw the elven king splashing Y/N with water wetting her completely.

“Thranduil? W-What are you doing here?”,she stuttered.

Thranduil moved closer to her watching as she visibly tried hiding something behind her back. He noticed how she was barefoot and scratches and cuts littered across her feet making his jaw clench.

“What are YOU doing here?”, the blonde elf hissed clearly angry but Y/N couldn’t point out why. Before she could even reply he yanked her hand from behind her back before stilling completely. His eyes unmoving from the contents in her hands. Forget me not flowers..... They had stopped growing in Mirkwood years ago. Drooping and dying more every moment the royal family distanced itself from each other, In grief, pain and misery.

“Where did you-”, ah the cuts on her feet, the dirt on her hands.....she brought them from out of the forest...

“I had seen them on our trip back from Rivendell months ago.....They were dying....I asked the mermaids to help me save them with spells, but you came interrupting them....”,she said in a soft voice, on the verge of tears breaking Thranduil out of his trance as he panicked,cupping her face with his larger hands. “I am sorry Lady Y/N I was simply worried about you, why did you not tell me? I could have helped you...”,he asked looking directly into her eyes as she poorly attempted to not shed any tears. “I didn’t want to bother you. I already bother everyone else. I don’t want to loose all of you..”, she said, tears unevitably falling and rolling down her cheeks. Oh... She thought she was alone...she had never asked for help from anyone....she felt insecure no matter how much everyone loved her....he knew someone who was like her few decades ago.

Him.

“You could never !”,he intended to say softly but it came out as a yell, making the woman flinch. He was mad, at himself for not noticing,for dismissing hints. “You would never......we care for you too much. Valar ! I care about you too much ! Everytime you do something dangerous my heart leaps....but I cannot resist your eyes, your words, you tempting smile.....Look at me....I do not wish to loose you like lost the rest of my people I cared about......”, Thranduil finished, his face only a finger distance away from the girl. “What are you doing to me Y/N ?”, he whispered, the other still trying to process everything. “Can I kiss you”, she whispered back. “Please...”,Thranduil said,his voice almost coming out as if he was begging.

And she did as the king asked, lips moving softly yet with love, for the first time in his entire life, the blond elf had let himself be completely vulnerable. His posture,his personality melting, almost as if a light glow covered around them. Even his dragon fire scar revealing itself for the first time to Y/N as they broke the kiss. Thranduil didn’t flinch when touched it, when she left a lingering kiss on it, smiling that wide smile he adored so much at it. The stayed that way before she leaned into his chest for a while,his arms around her. “No matter how much chaos you create I will never hate you...”, he said as he took in her scent.

Splash!

The voice echoed startling the two as the separated from each other, their faces red, only to see the group of mermaids hiding behind the rocks, their eyes on Y/N’s hands

The flowers were back alive and blooming....

That was the moment Thranduil knew that he had faced dragon fire once, but for his Lady he would face it again and again. He couldn’t help adoring her.

Back at the palace library the book was well forgotten, the pages flipping till it rested on a particular page littered with blue petals

Erevan Ilesere‘s Petal,his descendant on Middle Earth. 

But that is a story I, Gandalf will tell you another time.

--The End--

Finally ! Behold ! I am done after ages of procrastination! Thank you for requesting this fic it was really fun to write ! I may have gotten a bit distracted but did you like the twist ? I'm sorry if it's not really great but I really tried my best🥺.I really hope you did ! @gorgeourrific-nerd you too ! I think it is a bit similar to your request I hope you liked it too ! The rest of ya’ll too I ain’t forgotten ya’ll. Pleade like and reblog my posts if you like them ! Feedback is highly appreciated and please do not plagarize my work. I really work hard on them ! Thank you for supporting me! I love ya’ll so much !!

~Love, Hri

[goddesswritings]

A Change of Weather - Stardew Valley Sebastian

Title: A Change of Weather

Pairing: Stardew Valley Sebastian x Reader

Summary: Farmer Y/n has a crush on Sebastian and she’s ready to tell him how she feels with a bouquet. But things don’t go as planned thanks to Sam and his big mouth.

Word Count: 4.7k’

Masterlist

********

“She’s so perfect, Sam. Like the way she laughs and the way she makes me feel appreciated. I never thought I would feel this way about someone but wow, here I am!” Sebastian and Sam were standing by the river in front of Sam’s house and Sebastian was smoking while he talked about the woman he liked.

Sam smiled at the happiness Sebastian exuded when talking about this ‘mystery woman’. He knew it was Abigail, but he knew Sebastian wasn’t about to admit it.

“Well Seb, you should ask her out. That way she knows how you feel, and I guarantee she feels the same!” Sam had seen the signs with Abi, so he was sure she felt the same.

Sebastian smiled when he thought about her. He never saw himself falling for a farmer, but she wasn’t always a farmer. When she moved to Pelican Town, he hadn’t been all that keen on becoming friends with her, but she was persistent. So he finally cracked, and they became friends.

“I think I might.” Tomorrow was probably the best day because they were all meeting for a pizza night at Sam’s.

“Good, you deserve to be happy and from what I can see, she likes you too!” Sam clapped a hand onto his friends shoulder.

Sebastians eyes widened. “You know who it is?”

“Of course. You two are so oblivious to think no one else can see it. It’s so cute!” All the while, Sam was under the impression it was Abigail he was talking about, he didn’t suspect it to be the farmer.

“Wow, okay. Well I’m going to do it then.” It wasn’t easy for Sebastian to feel confidence because living in a house with Demetrius for 15 years, sure did a number on him.

“Good! She’s going to love it! If you can find some Amethyst, she will love that!”

“Oh yeah! That’s perfect. I think Maru has some extra amethyst she used for an experiment. She won’t miss it.”

“Great! Oh good luck, man. Although you don’t need it, she will say yes in a heartbeat.” Sam watched as his beat friend snuffed out the cigarette butt with some water.

“This will be good.” He said as he discarded the cigarette into the trash.

“It will!”

****

You felt a bit nervous as you prepared for a pizza night at Sam’s. A flower bouquet sat on the dresser taunting you. The mere thought of giving the bouquet to the desired target made you nervous.

Eight months ago, when you moved to Pelican Town, you met Sebastian the second day here. You had immediately been drawn to him. His darkness appealed to you. It had taken time for him to open up to you but when he did, things really bloomed.

“Tonight is the night we ask him out.” You said as you studied your reflection. A small bark came from Cal, your German Shepard. “Don’t worry, I’m not replacing you, bud.” He whined in reply. “Yes, we can trust Sebastian.” His reply was a positive one.

In the time you had know him, Sebastian was so good at hiding his real emotions from you. But at this point, you felt like there was something more flourishing between the two of you. You were ready to ask him if he actually wanted to explore it. You were nervous but you were also really excited.

Once you were sure you looked good enough, you put the fresh bouquet into your backpack and pet Cal on your way out. Tonight was the night you admitted your feelings to Sebastian. Hopefully, he felt the same, and things would work out for you two.

Of course, you were early to Sam’s house. His parents and his little brother were away in the city for the weekend, so he had the house completely to himself.

“Y/n! You’re here!” Sam pulled you into a warm hug as you entered the house. “You’re the first.”

You giggled. “Of course I am. Well that’s okay. I can help you set up.” You stated as you set the bag gently on the ground by the door.

“Thank you, you’re so sweet. I have mostly everything ready, I am just waiting for the pizza, which Penny said she would pick up on her way over. She will be leaving soon, once she makes sure Pam doesn’t go out to the Saloon again.” Sam said it but you both knew Pam would still go to the Saloon no matter what. She poured all her problems into alcohol and everyone knew it.

“Nice. I guess Sebastian and Abigail will be coming shortly?” Your eyes lit up when you said Sebastian, but Sam didn’t catch it.

“Oh yes. Sebastian is finally going to tell her he likes her. Finally after all this time, he’s going to admit it to her. It’s going to be adorable.” He blabbered and your heart skipped a beat.

“Wait. Sebastian likes Abigail?” You were trying your best not to let the hurt seep through.

Sam smiled. “Of course he does. They are perfect for each other. He was just telling me how much he liked her two days ago. He was going on and on about how perfect she is for him and how she makes him feel appreciated. It was so cute.”

Inside, you felt your heart cracking. Your chest suddenly felt tight when you thought about it. It truly felt like you were going to crack into several pieces right there. Of course Sebastian likes Abigail. Why wouldn’t he? They have known each other for years and she really was perfect for him. How could you have ever thought anything would happen between the two of you?

“Hey, are you okay? You look pale.”

“Um, yeah. I am okay.” You tried to even your breathing, but it was getting harder by the second.

Sam’s phone buzzed in his hand. “Oh Sebastian is almost here. He’s bringing some beer.”

You tuned out what Sam was saying as your brain tried to understand what was happening. “Actually, I’m going to head home. I suddenly don’t feel particularly good. I think I worked to hard in the sun today.”

His eyes looked up at you and he frowned. “Oh no. We told you that you were working to hard. Do you want me to walk you home?”

“No, I will be okay. Enjoy the night.” You were quick to grab your bag and sling it over your shoulder. “Bye Sam.” With that, you rushed out the door, eager to get away from anyone who you didn’t want to see you break down. You rushed off towards Marnie’s farm, to access your farm through the dirt path there.

By the time you were covered by the dark, you felt the wet tears flowing down your face. ‘Stupid. I am so stupid for thinking I even had a chance. Sebastian would never see me that.’ You berated yourself as you walked. You made it to your farm and walked through the thick trees you had yet to clear from the land. Once you were walking up the steps to the farmhouse, you felt completely defeated.

Cal was at your feet the second you unlocked the door. He could tell you were upset, and he didn’t like it. “It’s okay Cal, I just got my hopes up for nothing.”

You set the backpack on the small dining table and opened it, removing the bouquet and throwing it into the sink. You would dispose of it tomorrow. Next you opened the chest where you kept your swords, you decided that instead of sitting at home and crying, you would go to the mines and cry.

“I’ll be okay, Cal. I just need to get my frustrations out at the mines. I will be back in a few hours.” You pet his head and he panted in complete love at the attention you gave him. “I love you, buddy.” You leaned down and kissed his nose. Then you fastened the sword to your back and filled your backpack with a water bottle and some snacks. Your pickaxe hung from the backpack.

The walk to the mines was quick and by the time you reached the elevator, it was 9:00. You would have several hours to explore tonight before you had to be home. You were still pretty emotional, but the crying had stopped on the walk over. Entering the elevator, you went down to level 70. You had been working hard in the mines but hadn’t reached the bottom of the mines yet.

Just last week, you first encountered the skeletons. They took you off guard when you first saw them, but you quickly learned the best way to defeat them. You stepped out on level 70, taking out your pickaxe to begin the plight of smashing rocks and fighting odd creatures that dwelled in the mine.

****

Sebastian was feeling happy when he walked into Sam’s house, because he was so excited to talk to Y/n and admit his feelings. He was finally ready to take the next step and he hoped you were ready too. He was quite sure you were, but he was still nervous.

“Sebastian, good to see you. Thanks for the beer, you bought the good stuff.” Sam said while taking the case of beer from his best friend.

“You know I only provide the best for my friends.”

“Oh I do. We are grateful for it. Like really grateful. I think Abigail said she was able to score some weed when she was in the city last weekend with her dad. So more fun.” He set the beer on the coffee table.

“Really? Than this is a full out party, huh?”

“You bet. I mean we do have some celebrating to do, when you tell your girl you like her. So we have plenty of options.”

“We sure do. Oh I am nervous.” Sebastian said.

Sam turned to him. “Yo man, you have nothing to be nervous about. I already told you that she for sure likes you. Just calm down and let the night happen.”

“Okay, I will try.”

The door opened and in walked Penny followed by Abigail. “Look who I ran in to on the way over.” Abi said taking a pizza box from Penny.

“Perfect, I am dying for some pizza.” Sam then promptly took the box from Abi and opened it, grabbing a slice immediately.

“Oh Seb, you got the best beer! Yes, I always knew I could trust you.” Abigail hugged Sebastian and he hugged her back. Sam was watching the two of them with a strange smile on his face. Penny nudged his side and made him stop.

“You can trust him alright. Now did you bring the weed?” Sam motioned to Abi’s bag.

“I sure did. Let’s have some fun.” She opened the bag and dropped a pretty substantial amount of weed on the table. Penny looked away in embarrassment, not liking the idea of drinking and doing drugs but she came for Sam.

Abi set up the weed, while Sam passed a beer to everyone and opened the pizza boxes. Sebastian kept glancing to the door, waiting for you to come in but the later it got, he started to realize something wasn’t right.

“Dude, you haven’t touched your pizza. Why is that?” Sam was the first to notice how distant he was, and he wasn’t going to let him mope and ruin their night.

“I uh, have a lot on my mind.”

He suddenly looked like he understood. “Oh, then maybe you and Abi should go for a walk and talk. It’s the perfect time.”

Sebastian cocked his head. “Perfect time for what?”

“Dude, you know what I’m talking about. Do it now and you will feel better.”

“Do what?” Then it hit him. Sam was under the impression that the woman he had been talking about was Abigail. Suddenly it made all the sense in the world. “Sam you have it all wrong.” Now Sebastian needed to know where Y/n was. “Why is Y/n still not here?”

Sam laughed. “She overworked herself. Seriously, you are so thick headed. Abigail, Sebastian likes you and wants to be with you.”

Sebastian groaned and buried his head into his hands, while Abigail scowled at Sam. She knew about Sebastian liking the farmer, because she got it out of him a few months back. So of course she knew this wasn’t true. But also, Sebastian was the only one who knew Abigail fully, so of course Sam was putting the two of them together.

“Sam, you’re an idiot.” Abigail growled.

“What? Why?”

“Sebastian doesn’t like me you, dumbass. Not at all.”

“How? You’re the only girl I ever see him with. Wait, shit. Y/n. Fuck, you were talking about Y/n?” Sam slapped his forehead in complete frustration.

“Yes I was, Sam. Abigail and I are friends. You really thought I was talking about her?” Sebastian felt mad but he also needed to clear this up.

“Yes, I mean how could I not. You two are like the exact same!”

Penny was covering her mouth as she watched the exchange.

“Sam, fuck, I’m not straight. I didn’t tell you because I know you have a huge mouth that you can’t ever shut but Sebastian knows. So of course him and I would never work. We’re more like siblings than anything else.” Abi explained while Sam’s eyes went wide.

“Oh. I’m sorry Abigail. I didn’t mean to push. Shit, I am the biggest idiot.”

“You are.” Abi’s teeth were clenched.

“No, I am much worse. Y/n was here.” He clarified.

Sebastian looked up at the blonde. “Wait, she was actually here?”

Sam nodded solemnly. “She was and she was so happy until I said Sebastian was going to ask Abigail out. She went pale and she left quickly after that.”

“You really are a fucking idiot, Sam. She likes Sebastian and you just broke her heart by telling her he liked me. What the hell!” Abigail was pissed, because she didn’t want Y/n to hate her, and she also didn’t want Y/n to believe what Sam had said.

“Look, I’m sorry. How was I supposed to know. Sebastian never said a name and I didn’t think he was talking about her. You made the most sense in this situation.” He tried to defend himself, but Abi was already marching over to punch him. Sebastian grabbed her before she could.

“No, let’s not punch him. Just let him feel guilty. I’m going to go see if I can talk to her right now. Let’s hope she listens to me and that you haven’t completely messed it up for me.” Sebastian glared at Sam before he quickly left the house. He took the path beside Sam’s house, that led up to the stone walkway that would lead right to your farm. He was practically running.

When he arrived, he saw all of the lights out and cursed to himself. He knocked on the door but heard nothing. He knocked some more, before he decided to go to the back and see if you were home. His fear was confirmed when he saw nothing in the moonlight that spilled into your bedroom. You were not home.

He pulled his phone out and dialed your number. His heart dropped when he heard it ringing from inside. You left without your phone. He took a seat on the steps before a large German Shepard came from the fields and bounded up to him, whining for attention.

“Cal, where did she go?” Then he laughed at himself when he realized the dog wouldn’t be able to respond to him. Cal just rubbed his head against Sebastian leg before laying next to him on the porch. His only option was to sit and wait for you to come home from wherever you were. Given it was nearly 11 at night, so he knew you would be back soon enough.

****

It was a horrible idea to go to the mines when you were upset. Your focus was so off, and you made it easy for the mine creatures to attack you.

A skeleton quickly threw you back into the stone walls almost as soon as you entered the mine, the force had knocked the wind from you.

Later, a blue gray slime attacked, using it’s stun on you. Normally slimes were easy but this one was double the size of a normal slime. It took a lot to fend off the slime.

Then when you finally reached level 75, a cauldron of bats attacked, knocking your sword from your hands. You used the pickaxe to swat them away while you went for the sword. But several slammed into your head, digging their claws in. This caused a big gash below your left eye and another above your right eye near your hairline.

You called it a night after that and booked it to the elevator. Once you reached the surface, the weight of the events in the mine hit you head on as you felt the pain throughout your body.

It felt like the longest walk ever, going back to the farmhouse but you let out a breath when you saw it come into view. But your heart stopped when you saw a tall figure lying on your porch with your dog snuggled beside them.

You drew your sword and silently moved closer to them, not letting your guard down. They glanced up to see you and jumped up in complete surprise.

“Whoa Y/n, don’t stab me! It’s Sebastian!” He held his hands up in surrender.

You quickly dropped the sword to the ground. “What the hell are you doing here, it’s almost 1 am!” Cal jumped up and bounded over to you, happy you were home.

“Can we uh, talk inside?” He asked looking around in the darkness.

“Yeah.” You picked up the sword and ascended the steps before unlocking the door and flicking the lights on. Sebastian was behind you.

He shut the door behind you as you dropped the sword by the door to deal with later. “How long were you waiting?” You asked.

“Since 11.” His eyes went wide when he saw the cuts on your face. “What the hell happened?”

“Oh uh, the monsters won tonight.” Despite trying to play it off, you were thoroughly unsettled by how the night went. “Also, you waited outside for two hours?”

“I did. I really have to talk to you, but I need to clean up those injuries, they look bad.”

“It looks worse than it is.” This was a clear lie.

“No Y/n, baby, don’t do that. It’s okay to admit you’re not okay.” His voice was soft and calming now.

This was all it took before the tears were rushing out and you felt like collapsing to the floor. Sebastian saw this and caught you before you could fall. He picked you up and carried you toward the bedroom and bathroom. He sat you in the armchair by the bathroom door.

“Let me grab the first aide kit and a warm towel. I will clean you up and bandage what I can.” He said and you nodded before wiping the tears from your eyes. Sebastian was being so sweet to you.

He returned with the towel in hand. He bent down in front of you and started to gingerly clean up the cuts, you winced but let him do it. Once they were clean, he started bandage the ones on your face.

“Those monsters really got you, damn.” He whispered as he studied your face.

“Just a little.” You joked.

Sebastian stood up to put the towel in the hamper and the first aide kit back in the bathroom. “Just a little she says as I can literally see bruises forming all over her body.”

He was right. The soreness was becoming more apparent as the minutes ticked by. “Okay, so I fucked up.”

Seb shook his head. “No, you did not fuck up. I am going to blame Sam for this.”

You cocked your head. “Huh, why is Sam to blame for me going to the mines?”

“Because he told you I liked Abigail.” He said simply.

The ill feelings returned. “Oh that is nothing. I hope it went well for you two.”

“Well I don’t like her the way Sam assumed and she’s not into men, so that would not work.” He explained while helping you up from the chair. “Let’s get some comfortable clothes for you.”

You nodded. “Wait, so Sam was wrong about you liking her?”

“Completely wrong. She’s always strictly been a sister to me but for some reason Sam thought we were more.” Sebastian clenched his fists when he thought about it.

“Okay, then who was the girl you were talking about?” You had managed to find some pj’s in the dresser while Sebastian stayed next to you, to make sure you didn’t fall or get hurt again.

“Y/n, isn’t it obvious?”

“No.”

“Surely you know I like you, a lot. In fact, I was going to ask you out at Sam’s. Before he decided to open his mouth and make assumptions.”

“You were going to ask me out?” Those were the words that had stuck out to you.

“Yes, I was and I still am. Y/n, will you be my girlfriend? You’re the only woman whose ever made me feel so appreciate.” His words were so soft.

“Follow me.” You said taking his hand and leading him toward the kitchen. He looked confused until you picked up the bouquet from the sink. “I was going to ask you out as well. Someone told me that giving the one you like a bouquet was the best way to ask them out.”

Sebastian smiled and took the bouquet. “I accept.” He then pulled you close and sealed it all with a kiss. One that took your breath away.

“So this means I get to call you my boyfriend, right?” You had a smile on your face as you asked.

He looked just as happy. “Yes it does. I am completely yours baby.” Once again his lips found yours in a deep kiss that made you feel as though you were floating in the clouds.

“Can you stay the night?” You asked softly, not wanting him to leave just yet. Not so soon after admitting your feelings for each other.

“Of course I can. Someone has to be here to make sure you’re okay in the morning.” He teased.

“I will be fine.” But you actually weren’t so sure.

Sebastian took your hand in his and led you back to the bedroom. “I think you’re going to be very sore tomorrow.” He stated.

“You’re right. I will.” You grabbed the pj’s off the dresser. “Here I have some pj pants that will fit you.” You grabbed them and handed them to him.

“Thank you.”

“Always, boyfriend.” Seb’s cheeks went pink and it was the cutest thing.

“My girlfriend is so beautiful.” He said as you walked to the bathroom. You turned to give him a wink before disappearing into the small room.

**

You and Sebastian were curled up together on your bed, just listening to each other’s heartbeats. It was an extremely calming activity that you never knew you needed. It felt like this alone could heal you.

At some point, you both drifted off to sleep in each others arms. It was the sweetest thing. You felt that you had the best sleep in a long tome with Sebastian pressed up next to you.

When morning came, you heard the calming sound of rain hitting the roof. You lived for rainy days because it meant you didn’t have to spend a lot of time watering the crops. Today that would be useful because you were so sore after yesterday.

“How are you feeling today, baby?” Sebastian’s soft morning voice asked, while pushing some hair from your face.

You turned to look at him and smiled at how adorable he was. But his hair was wet. “You were right last night, I am very sore. Why is your hair wet?”

“I went out to feed the animals. I also made sure the crops were good. Cal assisted me and well, he got more water than I did.” Seb laughed and it made you feel blissfully happy.

“You fed my animals? That’s so sweet. Thank you, Sebby.” You leaned up to kiss him, but he met you halfway, so you wouldn’t have to do too much work.

“It was the least I could do. I will happily help you whenever you need it.”

“I’m so lucky to have you.” You honestly didn’t know how you got lucky enough to meet Sebastian, but you could probably thank your grandfather.

Sebastian looked as happy as you felt. “It’s the same for me.” He then buried his face into your neck, just holding you and enjoying the moment. This was how you spent the rest of the day. Cuddled up into each other, in bed.

**

A week later, you had healed enough to be okay with leaving the house. Sebastian wanted you to come to the Friday night saloon ritual, because he wanted to show you off and he also wanted to make Sam apologize for being a dumbass.

“You look beautiful.” Sebastian said as you locked the farmhouse doors.

You smiled and looked at your boyfriend. “You look pretty good yourself.”

“Pretty good, huh?” He quipped.

“Alright, you look so good to me.” You cracked a smile as he pulled you in for a kiss.

“Are you ready for this, because going to the saloon together means everyone will know we’re together.” He said as you both walked into town.

“I’m ready Sebastian. I don’t care what anyone else thinks. I like you and I’m extremely happy to call you mine.” You squeezed his hand as you said this.

“I’m also incredibly happy to call you mine. Let’s do this.” He looked happy about this.

The two of you walked up the path that led to the saloon. In no time, you reached the place and were walking up the stairs hand in hand. As you entered the saloon, you felt like everyone was watching you.

Robin was the first to notice and actually say something. “Sebby, does this mean what I think it does?” She asked as you both stopped in front of her and Demetrius.

“Yes, meet my girlfriend, Y/n.” Robin was ecstatic. She pulled you both into a hug. Demetrius just stood silently watching the two of you.

“What do you see in him, Y/n. He does nothing but play video games in his room all day.” Demetrius sneered.

Your blood boiled. “You clearly don’t know Sebastian at all. He has a job and that’s what he does in his room. I like him a lot and I will defend him. So if you have nothing nice to say about him or us, I suggest you leave it alone.” It was a wonder how you didn’t scream this.

Sebastian felt like he was falling deeper for you, after seeing you stand up for him like that. You had started to lead him away from there when he stopped you and kissed you right there, in front of everyone.

The two of you entered the arcade room together. Abigail and Sam were already there.

“Look, oh my god! It’s official!” Abigail cheered as Sam looked up from the Joja vending machine.

He looked toward us sheepishly, still feeling angry at himself for what happened last week. “Hi guys. I am glad to see things worked out.” He said to them.

“Yeah, no thanks to you.” Sebastian teased.

“I know. I’m sorry, I am the biggest idiot.”

You shook your head. “Hey Sam, please don’t blame yourself. It happened and we recovered. Let’s move on and forget the bad?”

“Sure, I can do that.” Sam seem relieved to know you weren’t mad at him.

“Damn, I knew there was a reason why I liked you.” Sebastian whispered into your ear, making you smile. Everything felt right and you couldn’t wait to see what the future held.