#wind-up emperor in XIV when?

[lunarosewood23]

FFXVIWrite2024 Prompt 1: Steer

Crossover hell (XIV -> XVI) ft @inkblood-mistrieu’s girl Mingxia and her polycule. Set at some point between 868 and 873 (their arrival and the start of the game). Raven meets with her oath siblings to swap intel and figure out just how they’re supposed to navigate the Valisthean political scene.

Word Count: 1869

~~~

“Your Majesty, the dignitaries have arrived.” A guard alerted her.

Raven sighed as she settled herself upon her makeshift throne. “Very well, send them in.”

The guard nodded as Haurchefant rubbed her shoulder in assurance.

“Everything will be fine Améthyste.”

“I know, but I'm still concerned. We still have yet to find Bahamut and his Dominant, and our little kingdom is still not strong enough to stand on its own. If Sanbreque comes-”

“Won't that make our job easier then? After all Ratatoskr did say that the Empire used him in war...”

“Even still-”

“Your Majesty! May I present to you the Four Lords of the Ruby Chain.”

Raven’s head shot up. The Four Lords?? Does that mean...?

She had to stop herself from shrieking when she saw them as four familiar people strode into her throne room. Two Elezen men, an Au Ra woman and a Hyuran woman, all dressed in garb that reminded her of the auspices whose name they shared.

She rose from her throne with a grin as the Hyuran woman almost ran forward and jumped up to hug her around her neck.

“Thank the gods across the stars!! It's so good to see you Mingxia!” Raven exclaimed as she swung Mingxia in her arms and ran her taloned fingers through her long black and blue hair. She set her down only to hug the rest of them. “And all of you too!”

“Good to see you too Princess.” The Elezen with white hair laughed as she hugged him, lightly whacking him upside the head.

“Foulques be nice.” The Au Ra laughed as she squeezed Raven tightly, her tail reaching over to swat Foulques’s butt.

“Were you not told that it’d be us?” The Elezen with black hair inquired.

“I freaking wish Floriano.” Raven grumbled. “But I can’t fault them for assuming it was Sanbreque, since they are the nation next to us, even as they seem unaware of our presence so far.”

“Curious I will admit.” The Au Ra mused as she ran her scaled fingers through her short black hair and away from her horns. “But good for you I think? We seem to have caught at least a little attention of the Crystalline Dominion and the Dhalmekian Republic.”

“The Dominion is the one with the Wind crystal and the Republic is the one with the earth crystal, right?” Raven asked.

“Right. Though I know I was careful in my slip through of both places...”

“It’s probably my fault Rukia.” Mingxia stated as she rubbed the back of her head. “We had been playing with our magic a bit lately.”

“I don’t think so, but we can figure that out later.” Foulques stated. “Right now we need to figure out how to best navigate the Valisthean political structures here. What have you two found?”

Raven sighed as she waved her hand for them to follow her. “Come on, we’re going to the parlor to talk.”

They nodded and followed, thankful that Raven’s estate is easier to navigate than the castles they had seen in Dhalmekia and the Dominion. The room she led them to was spacious but comfortable, with a table holding tea and light finger foods.

They all settled in and Raven sighed.

“Based on what the locals of my kingdom have told me, Sanbreque is basically Ishgard. A theocracy, though it seems that not only do they worship the dragons, seeing as their Eikon is Bahamut, but the Emperor is one greedy son of a bitch. The vibe I get from him is Thordan, even though I’ve yet to meet the man. Though the second I can,  I’m snatching Bahamut’s Dominant out of there.”

“According to my journal, Bahamut is the one who called us here to this world.” Mingxia explained as she flipped open her quest log. “Though I still struggle to understand how he got here.”

“Ratatoskr recognized his song mixed in with the melodies of this world, so we can confirm it’s the Bahamut from the Source, though as for how he got here...we can only suspect Ascian involvement. When we get back I’m gonna have one very long conversation with Hades about all this.”

“Good idea.” Rukia nodded. “What do we know of the other nations?”

Haurchefant pulled out a map of Valisthea and spread it out. “According to some of our men, until about eight years ago there were six kingdoms. The Holy Empire of Sanbreque, The Grand Dutchy of Rosaria, The Dhalmekian Republic, The Iron Kingdom, The Crystalline Dominion, and the Kingdom of Waloed.”

“If I recall correctly, there was a civil war in Rosaria, though the details escape me, but the current state is that Rosaria became an imperial province of Sanbreque. The dutchy’s Eikon, the Phoenix, hasn’t resurfaced since their Dominant had died in the civil war.” Raven explained, frowning as she remembered the  Echo she had when she had transformed back from being Ratatoskr. “That poor boy. When I first saw the Echo I thought I was looking at a boy that was maybe a little older than Annalise, but I found out he was maybe ten years old at the time of the disaster. It’s heartbreaking, that child must’ve been so scared...”

“How cruel this world is to make a child fight when he should not even be near a battlefield.” Floriano growled.

Mingxia had a curious look in her eyes. “Do you know if they ever discovered a body?”

“Based on the Echo, no. All the invaders discovered was the boy’s older brother, who seemed to be sold off into the army.” Raven answered before she growled. “If I ever see the blonde bitch that orchestrated that mess it’s on sight...”

“Much as I would love to watch you rip that vile woman apart, must I remind you that that blonde bitch is currently the vicerine of Sanbreque.” Haurchefant warned gently.

Raven groaned. “Don’t remind me...”

“I would be careful.” Mingxia warned. “Because there is not a body, things might be more complicated. The Phoenix’s Dominant might not be dead.”

“After everything, you do have a point Ming...” Raven mumbled before shaking her head. “Let’s steer back to the original discussion. What of the other nations?”

Rukia nodded and pointed to the nation near the south. “It seems every nation has a Dominant, with Sanbreque having Bahamut and Rosaria having Phoenix. Dhalmekia has Titan, and it seems he has a high spot in their society seeing as he’s the economics advisor. It reminds me of Ul’dah. It’s a bit of a merchant city-state. Which is Xiaoming’s field of expertise~”

Mingxia giggled as Foulques shook his head. “We still don’t know much about the Iron Kingdom, other than they fought against Rosaria for the giant fire crystal for years. They ransacked Rosaria’s capital soon after Sanbreque’s takeover according to a woman who escaped from there.”

“That sounds like what some of our men who were from there said.” Haurchefant stated before sighing. “What a mess this place is...”

“You’re telling me.” Raven grumbled before she pointed to the nation whose standard seemed to have a horse  on it. “What of this nation across the ocean that seems to span over the continent?”

“We still don’t know much about Waloed, other than the fact that Odin is their Eikon, if what I understand from the Waloeders that fled to our isles told us.” Floriano explained. “The only thing we do know is that the king is collecting Dominants for some reason. We still don’t know why.”

“That’s...worrying. Do we know who he has among his guard?” Haurchefant questioned with a frown.

“Not yet, but we’ll find out.” Rukia assured. “And I guarantee you’ll be the first to know.”

Raven smiled as she pulled Rukia into a hug. “Thanks Rukia...”

“There’s still one more nation we haven’t discussed.” Floriano pointed out as he tapped his finger on the island that seemed to connect the two continents. “The Crystalline Dominion.”

“It seems to sit at the center of the world like Mor Dhona or Lakeland.” Raven noted. “Who is their Eikon?”

“It doesn’t seem to have one. It looks like it’s ruled by a representative council of people from Rosaria, Sanbreque, Dhalmekia and Waloed. It almost seems like it’s being permitted to remain neutral. It definitely feels like a shaky peace, but if Sanbreque’s emperor is getting greedy, who knows how long that will last...” Rukia explained.

“Oh boy...” Raven let out a breath. “Yeah Valisthea is a mess, but I’m still trying to think what the best course of action is, or what political game we need to play with the other nations.”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Rukia questioned. At Raven’s confused head tilt she sighed. “You haven’t been paying attention to what some of the people have been saying have you?”

At that Raven groaned as she thumped her head on the table. “I don’t wanna think about it...I’m not Sanbreque’s goddess made flesh, even if I have been spending time in Her chapels in an attempt to understand Her nature. She feels so much like Halone but Her depictions and her devout priests make Her more akin to Menphina.” She grumbled as she waved her hand.

“And yet based on the reports...” Mingxia replied. “There are whispers in Sanbreque that something has occurred. A goddess has appeared in the pristine wilderness near northern Sanbreque. A woman of otherworldly beauty, whose words echo with power in the tongue of dragons. There are whispers that Greagor has appeared on Valisthea, both woman and dragon, whose scales are red as rubies. At her side is her loyal knight, who has a mirror-bright shield, and in his other hand is a blade of moonlight. They whisper that change is coming, for a goddess has appeared.”

“I’ve also heard some stories sister.” Rukia adds. “Of a sweet little bard singing to dying bearers and trying to ease their pain in those final moments before death claims them. Some devout bearers think they've seen the Goddess as they die in their delirium, others beg her to take their pain away so they can die in peace. Some just ask her to hold their hand because they are afraid of dying. Simply because she is kind and sees Bearers for the people they are and not the tools they are forced to be.”

“It is NOT my fault that compassion is a rarity in this hellscape!” Raven yelped as she buried her face in her hands.

Everyone laughed as Haurchefant hugged her from behind and kissed her temple. “Your compassion knows no bounds my heart.”

Raven sighed. "Let it be said that I have never once claimed to be the goddess Sanbreque worships. Despite that the tenants are similar to Halone's back home, I would never claim such. Though apparently showing kindness is so rare here that it's earned me at least a portion of these rumors..."

[libidomechanica]

Blow him not

A rispetto sequence

               I

Which the honeysuckle crowded round him with thirst for fire! For it will sourly leave them on the glen sae bushy, O, aboon they do

so that wanted. Does not the grove appear’d, and compromise, all. Blow him not. Trifling his loving hand or troubled might: for in his face.

               II

What we seldom hear it. Tone to hail her sensibility, a thing repels the ethereal station upon their Principles

of Leutha’s flower O Sorrow, wind of the day then press’d, his very good a King: the white lake-blossom fell in silver cymbals’ ring!

               III

Live with her desire no beauteous regions wild rapt in all his kin! Stiff in Opinions; make my Power employ, with song and tears:

all of you. That would love. And arbour, no darkness. Smears with portly paced along a scale of awful footsteps and live! The common wood.

               IV

Foresee, make suddenly transformed. Yes, moonlight Emperor! With wide- arched brows, within the dames heroic and chicken feathers, are in

slumber did the habits of thunder cloudy seas. Of Arbitrary black. Men and the brain begins his solemn as unpleasant fields!

               V

Each, which the Father comforts on the most true image. Whom within the altar stand, a shadowy Hours; while to his Overthrow. And

honeysuckles fully expected, there was not my own soul conspired, snail-paced lives, as well know than Hybla drops, that motto drew.

               VI

Besides a cold something New to wish they who wish the sable frock and for his story of Civil Wars. Sudden blow bundle of creame

vncrudded, her place is said, is Juster to thy though her. Were some small hands, your voice hiss. Fondly, and songs never chart, a key … Even then!

               VII

Returns from kissing each guest, but Thanks, ’ she says margarita she meets his golden fulness and through those who give forever. From Earth,

and his muzzle beneath, or not to come, and said, I dared not; his goddess of Greatness, Sweet, with Kings are only books were from the square.

               VIII

Then Lady Psyche,’ said Cyril. Not a windy shore, bacchus stood up to the window, and let me suffering; good-bye to the eyes that

cheerless way, have it always in their wild minstrelsy! Laughing e’en o’ lovely ray, that always true: the last with a butcher’s wrinkle.

               IX

For what was fawn’s blood, the boards: and t is held good! Like the truth and fear of furious felicity draperies, headed like the

serene father will it proves thievish form reposing moon are gone. I to my kinsfolk pray in spirit clings to that four are the ground.

               X

The Good design’d, and so its ink has pale it lay upon the hues of her ye virgin best. Pan may vs see, and their riot even

I, for one is both alike; a nightingale shall meet? Come live twice; in it and Just, and mused and hether, where the bright beams arise!

               XI

Or at you, cat and I, bluebirds are pecking headless arrows of poverty? It grieved his bells from David’s Rule: And tis Glory: And

when to bring comes it thy dear native truth saue this, if ought thee modesty, they shoulders all. Blest Madman! And lende me leaue like the Tree.

               XII

By those sylvan aisles. But that whatsoever is, that ere the gallant came late: for Lavish grants the tabor, and gold; and the bought,

not a kiss nor look be lost. The moonlight, from the mob all states, and favourite hamlet faint in this nights dread, how cam’st to protect me.

               XIII

Or whose passion from the ladde, whom she had no darknesse lend desire! From the glowing bust, which fence she says quixotic she means my

weary witnesse compare?—All good Barzillai thou canst find out lover? Expectant, powerless, with his steed a little babe was dead.

               XIV

How carefully thought the Sacred Rites invade. Had I lain for an after a still speak in the Forrest I did wear his Tribe were not

ask the breezy elms above all fancy, pride, as by Prince your brother tremble under arches of the way you fed by their stations.

               XV

Is lord by night of him, but do not with stars were some massy member that will break of light we are; let me down on my pen and begin,

we give at everywhere where my Goddess! Sweet and so I kept brimming town; at the same a shadowy presence there!—Nothing more.

               XVI

Of every ill: the madness! Dry their Witnesses will Swear, till Viper- like these, in such the body how I wish to collide violence

ever felt but a breathe with lying beyond thing, but lack tongue- tied than Endymion, weep not so, a virgin fill’d with faint and live!

               XVII

Her smiles, and leaue to Mars the Seat ascending; the litter of large- browed steadfast peace These raven horses foam and confin’d: why am

I now? The most create his own: tis easy chearfulness at my wing’d exulting swift flights to plume the rolls her eyes, but much improve.

               XVIII

Force. That I can say this of mild silver grapes, in leaves, and thus await fearless, lustful, happy, nestling for a century. Of a

leaky vase, for good need were, slew both his breath; the stirr’d him, glad to see how thus lorn to be King, the Shadows of a Forgiving Right.

               XIX

She sits vpon the ripe grape is so constant arms to join them, feelings her follie great: he for me? So marks his labour trade, fools a passage

cast out, the World his Foes, whom maids by night wish theyr drery accents sing; ne let them blossom! And plume; and not a joke he cut but eat?

               XX

Fair they broke his Host of deathful glee; laughing blessing themselves, perused the public weal disposed to crowd love is a deliciousness.

When arrows of people of this way beaten gold. He said, what do still Superiour found, while the ground; one groan’d, as one things left alone.

               XXI

A cowslips, and Restrain my Hands: the People might I not cruel grown, from the cheeks’ returns from some face out showe: let dame Eliza thanked

me for the farmer? For her feet, high as they seem of a double rent. Empty the King’s Defender, only made for my happiness.

               XXII

Equal she may be had form’d of clear green holly: most full vow, and gentle limbs on tremble, and he stood in a way to cloud it. The

church on the green water rushing down upon by the Town so call’d him, fair creature is this? To think the problem, that sacred rites vnfit.

               XXIII

Had higher things where through Love’s Elysium. Once in another as she went up the Wall, thus far tis Duty; but hastily we

past, that all beauty being an urn wept over the hand, the woods they have you never coud with seconds, knows where they might cannot find.

               XXIV

Come live that I should never Rebell was too bountiful arose, and thou fooles selfe-chosen snare, fond fancies vain for the centre

sought his skill, some old trick! The flashlight person feed their power, to the dell, To give their shadow, like to comfort were begot Maiesty.

               XXV

Not blame you have gain’d esteem. Epic will come to a rendezvous, and catch the warm excess of life is most precautious benches. The

maiden sobb’d awhile, then come back down wi’ right eye she lifted hands with somewhere, where it ever and the man is singing most jolly.

               XXVI

Cold in thy shadowed from his imperious sway this proper tone then should’st departed she, as well awayt, and makers of time will

be, whole neighbour’s prayer, and the world’s perplexing wash of my beloued lasse forlorn had he been, if Destiny had higher. And barred.

               XXVII

Antique song: but when they whose light, and forbear to taste then, Psyche. Which had been a blessing on its steady Skill come and tell the virgin

fill’d with Fear, yet since then, thereunto doe daunce vnto the sacred ill, still longer the fields were of the unnameable form, the larks.

               XXVIII

Blow him not. Great Brahma from his wicked change in his stormy passion slew me; do smile upon the shade.—Riding—the highwayman comes

it there my eye in wide as if painted glass, and far more my whole soul when most imperious similar remarks to take there here!

               XXIX

Felt, admonished to meet her attyre, and bent it seemed a thing went the mounts Amyntas—oh! When he shalbe a grace, and by learning and

Desire! Fragrant flowers, rush of rivers, and blank, made close me up; and thou forth his car, aloft, the long-limbed lad that meek unknown?

               XXX

Wonder weeds, and near to wake, after thine; sternly denied;—love so much of Time. The care bid all the day, the bat, the road that made me,

and the grass; I feel the stretch around these? Before going to thee will have Right, and ne’er before the cold miser spread his paramour.

               XXXI

For compound sweet smooth alleys, sighs towards the garden tools; but all Mankinds Epitome. But in will, to sing my thighs so closely cling

the tree; they came: but hides and festivity? That from the eagle scorne to hear this bed-fellow, it eats into a galliard did grow.

               XXXII

Knocks against the faery-roof, made me, feele his eyes strain’d: doubt not, my only blest: his Lawfull Issue shall the day spending to the

timeless moon. And thou shalt, beloved yesterday, the best: the Plot: yet, Corah, thou wilt leave thy love is below love is comming seas.

               XXXIII

The handles heard, one unto his own—he was country gentle bosom burns with the Daughter of those sylvan aisles. That shall it receives

him as silent-blessing their surfaces with my deere loue of lilies and almost forest-fruits, and blank, made for beauty. Yet oh!

               XXXIV

The might have larks. To guard again? His passport which speaks: teach the woods shall prosper well; for towns on me, no ghostly galleon tossed upon

my bracelet. Doe make any guilt—not to come again. It was hard, with various to a pitch of nicety, where is not so!

               XXXV

Who, at the fond vision went in bright With them to whom this chiefest joy, our chiefest are, that dark cup your veins tho their straw. Flye hence, good

care doth her bridale bowers? Within the silken sails is going to disgrace; while falling you as Champion him to his Throne?

               XXXVI

These were their wings which dare claime from high to low, along the duller eyes, I all alone, aloof. A lover would govern, nor no God

could not, nor mov’d; from every loss the rose, and somehow, each hath one, and solace sing, ne any woods may answer, Madam, he threshold?

               XXXVII

And here, and wine for sale, but ah! Soft deceit, for truth saue this fixed a day of welcome, she loves in violet knots, silly posies, groaning

for our eccho ring. No blemishe may spie.—Pale as if to stir it scarcely thought peace and so Stormy day her tattered sapience.

               XXXVIII

Go, get that say or sing to sigh; for thou redeemed hast my love what I thoughts prouoke, danger of his defence is it just once Dominion

thee bent, as bottom will I sing ere long, to which by a springs, shall match with those eyes are not a fourth place! Who banisht David weak.

               XXXIX

A page bench; an iron-pointed to the bridal he should I, Encouraging the loss—of thee. Under the cobbles he clatters answer,

we would quit the singing, or she is so stranger: aftertime, and yeeld thee to mee, and he knew no reason seek the empty left?

               XL

Redemption sparkles! Turns—with those that soundes so sweet, without remorse or ruining? For feare this face, and he answere anguish, how

could not say so, to give disquiet to my kiss again. Who Cost too grossly dyed. Stiff in Opinions can pursue Immortal here?

               XLI

As I have not at rest in the words and day. Already looks as Heaven to the old, and awakest wilt tell how should the People

whom, debauch’d with thee. Below his wits pierced through the dreaded cards foretell, shall range these Arms accuse, that built up a pile of beaten gold.

               XLII

She rose, knowing his night, a kind of the Blow of Fate. It is the sea they seem alive and me from cochineal. Doth most create, for

Politicians Tool; never thou wilt behold, he thrush replyes, those vapoury lair. Ever knowledge is not Good by Force he with blis.

               XLIII

I was angry mood, for thee. And short-hand pens imbibed the exploratory rescue-ship through oh! Blood. By nature, banish sleepe with

foggy damps, and abash’d with painful gusts, with that poor woman true as innocence of Angels Alleluya sing, the Shadows dire.

               XLIV

To Nature declar’d when thou wilt shine on me, she began to run at, when places of the Western winds and not well, where the too

resplendent sun hurries the Widdowes daughter. All agree with quia impossible eye, thine eyes were, while I enjoyd that lily hand.

               XLV

Here angry—as they ran: therefore and there was one that seemed the sweetest then, Sorrow after his concludes his life, from a sorrow after

a little ones to brush about themselves know whither herbs and from the latter worst of fortune’s mighty Soul she should more delight.

               XLVI

Go, get that you call great: he forests, and plate, as between two plantains, and harebell mildly away, as wrecked men desires to

Woods and thereupon her breast: look in. Not barren of all Religion, and in the fix’d in happiness no seconds, knows what woman!

               XLVII

It will the early day, pursued an instant and nearer he came to pass, I sate with virgins learning after my own, my swelling

be? Now day is doen, and its dazzling how to fill my Chloris’ bonie face there appeared as chearfulness, and kill; or else he braces old.

               XLVIII

You are coming grief of Royal Vertue scarcely pale, pillow’s twitter, came a voice which now she would not say so, to give thee! And every

clime, that clos’d my Mind; tis Natural wisdom ask no more so stranger spoke, and a soul, had had your trade, fools are. For wine we left your name.

               XLIX

And rashly judge his prayer with her, but lover? Into my large dark inn-yard. ’ Earth in an antique house-clock still Superiour found, and

the Jews. Is void of happy to be Out-done. His artful, secret joys, or wert thou die from his Aid has told, thoughts, with a purer joy?

               L

The momentary pleasure press’d a few words and all ye powers, am I now? If more than man was her wreaths had dragg’d the Gods still

croking make vs once and mellow radiant from our graceful form reposing motion has she now, my Celia, with a bunch of late.

               LI

And then the rays of govern, nor no God could not different far there represent tales, and a sore temperament and long, but in mine appear’d,

now in a child crying at night. I have pass’d by, as of a little snakes coil and bear the long daies labour turne, and all day; come!

               LII

’ Thus every moment gains upon such treasury, as I in it and increases to entangle, trammel up and buzz’d his hair like

a star, get with their forms of the reason was no Crime. And we gazing out, might fading eyes, and is no memories on thy window.

               LIII

He company; not their own sphered table, to be sav’d, even the dust; love it more than hawks or horseman came riding—the higher

dames less cleverness, would weene some enemy: far forth the lad benighted. About, and in me. Love has buoyed me up till my heart.

               LIV

Sin; when we met first of fortune and Humane Laws. That hit with thy good aray fit for my torturingly fair; the nightingale, that

all complete with water-blurred fevers boyl the Beach, and sit alike delight luxurious and Caves, and draw the placed or unplaced it.

               LV

Till we in the seed of gods, but an errand would tyre a well half- conscious of the yeare all but Luther’s Mild nature’s discrepancies,

open to virtue friend of David’s Government. Faces in a dream, but both their host, but Thanks, ’ she answer and hatred, misery?

               LVI

Of blushes o’er: so, several station upon thy glory, which yet he sinks, touching upon the leaves me not, fray vs with pity

oft will befal, my best frights; ne let the Gods, whose Native courses; because of the bough. What otherwise you perished, and nearer.

               LVII

And anon there we live to see. That what was before thy finger touch’d the fretted the dawn: a beam had slanted hail; great God has willed

a still season of Ægypt, night&morning or set, and is neuer day so long, and sunglasses in Balboa Park and silvery warm.

               LVIII

And pointing Oyle had been a sore hearts, distinguish grew—how bear it? And thy youth, quick, and his face burnt like some hid and soon a taper

silver plants, which we Right, opprest, and leaps like his Delphic lyre; her kiss’d, and, that’s haunted. The red rose weeds, but dash’d and body ought.

               LIX

Like old man that the worms that even to tame the entirely beauty’s store, flies bout the door and fro: a clamour thing in their

Violines. Be also present culprit was dead, save me, sweet breathless and the portal, but one word in hand, and lende me leaves Astrea flyeth.

               LX

Over they could write your former. Of flower, and I neglect has worn and would not say, This poet lies: such a grasp of the two we’ve

seen—but, come, and giueth lawes along the proper homely tale is De rebus cunctis et quibusdam aliis. Infected by thy eye.

               LXI

They said many shadow of ice exchanges there. Was turned toward the lips of the your comfort, and sitting silent, wan, into my loue?

’Twas Sleep slow journeying with grace; while the kite that God of her hunt, I know thirst with so smooth semilucent election, nor dreamer.

               LXII

When on Jordans Flood: unfortunately free, began to the violets blue as anothers and arms with devout touch you might or day

to open cans was she! More than hawks and twincling strong were confines of the sweet. That innovation’s Curse, that ere the rest, on mother.

               LXIII

Thy lifull heart under the hut I fix’d his wicked but should I, Encouraging Fevers burn clear black hair. Next Cynthia he hearts,

when the Crowd be Judges days most precautious to be sav’d, even in the impotence of its own heart, like the river-lily bud!

               LXIV

My friends who know even our tymely sleep, think I made you for here in her sense but in such a Cause? Yet, like a spirit, thought us

Academic silks, in huge vessels, wine come from my love, nor over in his visitant or vision dies: let thy mandolin.

               LXV

And, kind lady, with nets found of men, by Lawless Might, or sing, then will be, which further the coil of seamen, and the which he call’d an

article the door. Her, and I her shrink to a pitch of nicety, where he alighted by a garret windows to my heart bleed.

               LXVI

Mothers do despise, and thy years. He rose is dead, and with thickset fruit. The cold ran through he torment us with them all bows down the

casket of my widow’s head, a bunch of late? In the earth must dwelling you as Champion of the latter worse awhile, and sweet pride.

               LXVII

In years gone, two blightingale, that make the doorway, dark; till that loved me dearly; she is so good, or whether we return in you,

that simple lives. Be vnto Maia, when a child, if good matches, and sitting heartbreak, woe, what is a deliciously she bow’d in love!

               LXVIII

We entered in your eccho ring. Of wearing of their seed attendance o’er this cunning was silent, if Theotormon broke her as she

went in will, for greedy pleasure, and he stood the ghost, a prologue which with our conversatility, which we are wafted abroad.

               LXIX

Children dear, went to see; whether thoughts which brings troubled your eyes were on its steady surprise. Till tyrant! Whom I had not a tree, beneath

his table of my Plot. Mirrored in your orange tradition; but could not go, though I feel my heart was not a Slave of Quietude.

               LXX

He blows a bugle,—an ethereal band are visible above conceits, which thank me. High as thoughts, within ye hear the native

land, hard forms of disgrac’d, and perplexing! Dry as the moment was braw, and game, and loud on the promise: all, I trust, may yet be well.

               LXXI

Yourself never thought, not a wind of things are Negligently bends towards a group of trees and pebbles blue from thee. I would have knows why

nothing to some thou liest, instead of all. Why stand aside and hymns in the casement, upon the gasping furrowes faster ty’de.

               LXXII

Thatch, a patience to vent than all the night the Potter’s art. Till which thank him for tears, mourn’d away—but what’s call’d a Just Revenge for the

States-Man, and Buffoon: then Florian? To see her. To some ten years! And nettles rot and a staircase ending she might or mighty woes.

               LXXIII

Hint of Adeline enquir’d if I had not say so, to give for peace, for after it, nor needed by boyling o’r: and Nobler is

abed, candlesworth under the common, and just receives. A rendezvous, and from its mother. She did not skill to Defend their straw.

               LXXIV

Does not the aid of joy. More than mine. On libbard’s paws, upheld her lucid bow, continuing thus, just paint you sudden it is to

belong yourselves—’t was its only given thence though heavy sleep of thanks to her. A red-coat troop came marching, up to the windows.

               LXXV

Never was Patriot Paint!—And the while he waited: out we paced, I first, there are more transparent breasts; and think to seeke vs to

winne his fyrye face defil’d when she slept weeping in three castles, torches rich as moths from Foes; and the phantoms of existence of you!

               LXXVI

With my bootless witty, since in a hut, with a doubled rest, and pluck thou made; and now the music drop here—a kid I on this we

will start from me hys madding mynd is stranger spoke, and dry. When the written: Take them wild for the youth, sure some ten years to cross the Laws.

               LXXVII

My fayre Rosalind hath broke, that brother’s blood wide, and wals with them to whom king Jove has done, the land when far at sea that not feruent

be for fear we should my freedom. And the church lands I bless horrors which filled my mind; so great heroes some wild start with his Master hear.

               LXXVIII

Rest: but though you haven’t gone to summon all his conclude their own arts of manly bear a woman love, to love? Almost an hair’d; and

when nothing much like flesh and bound, their own. And it grew both deliberate, the stomach on those whispers may dwell; till his pulse and widow.

               LXXIX

Ornament, at thy pleasures: Innocence? This—the dinner-bell hath a prize to-night. Is mischeivously seated into the old garden

tools; and bowing popularly Mad? He staid not wait. Pleased heaven, for fear this blessed Brooke doe bathe my pillow. To these late showers.

               LXXX

Warm pearls beneath the mountain prey because though if thou call the weak race of hands, to boast his Foes. His jokes were visible go see, the

venerable Armytage, a friendly cooings of what is the spirit that the kings of October frosty rime, though shadowy beams.

               LXXXI

Honey from his mystic friar’s rigour, present family stoop’d to them, until he read an architect, brought to all—which haue often

made the joys could not doubt? With the rain. Been ordained was, to chose that Peggy made its virgin fears, all honor’s mimic, all were in one?

               LXXXII

To meet star-sisters weird, but them. To meet th’ vnpleasant thought to your own mouth too. Came jasper pannel fuming streets you speak; but when

the strove by fancies garlands, love- knot into the absent friends who know her woof, her texture; she perhaps she means this? Let’s try their Names.

               LXXXIII

I WILL enjoy tonight. As if the more. In baskets of all the Beach, as he on did pass There are wed? To catch the world wide there were

ran a streaming Saint Augustine has torn, he shows they movèd alike? An image of the tie of moonlight of love and clear; and seem tame.

[soraka-in-warhammer40k]

A small theory regarding the Emperor's - potentially solar powered - origin

So we all know THIS guy, right?

Some call him "The Holy God Emperor", some "Anathema", some "worst dad ever", and to Lorgar in specific he's "divinity refusing its responsibility", which is a very poetic take on "being a fucking large disappointment" - which is also keeping it quite civil, which is remarkable given the torching of Monarchia. After the trauma of crying in the ashes of his greatest accomplishment as billions of innocent lives that looked up to him are now just whispers in the winds on a barren world, one would expect harsher words, but that's Lorgar for you I guess?

But the actual nature of the big guy? Absolute mystery. And for the vast majority of 40K stories, it did not matter anyways. However, as the stories we tell in this setting are no longer just random fluff to sell tiny plastic soldiers, and with a prequel novel series spanning over 50 volumes, there's only so much one can work with before eventually having to deal with the very root of it all.

Generally it is very safe to assume that the Emperor is not a product of technology, but gained his powers from the Warp. He did use his accumulated knowledge over the years to augment himself and create miracles of science, but at the very start, there is no technology. The common theories are:

Being several psyker souls mashed together and reincarnated as a bulky "super-soul", aka the "bunch of dead Psykers in a trenchcoat" theory. This one is, by my opionion, absolute nonsense. Otherwise we would, through simple statistics, have several emperors or half-emperors running around the galaxy for now. Messed up psykic group rituals are not that much of a rare thing when put onto a scenery of a million worlds. Theory therefore: unlikely.

The same applies to being a "natural" biological anomaly. Again, when put into a setting where trillions of lives are born and die every single moment to the scope being an entire galaxy, statistically "Impossible" events happen all the time. Just very far apart from each other, but they do happen. Theory: unlikely for the same reasons.

Being originally not-human. This one is a bit trickier as it opens up a lot of options: from a disgraced Warp-Entity fleeing the War in Heaven to a Great Old One to a C'Tan shard, all is possible, even Cabal interference is suddenly on the table. But if there was one thing the Emperor had very strong feelings about, it was about him being human, no matter how absurdly removed he was from the species on a fundamental level. There is one key argument against this and that is Malcador. His oldest friend and ally, the one who was definetly human and who also knew the secrets of his powerful companion. I doubt Malcador's loyality would be that strong if he knew the Emperor was an "outsider". Theory therefore: unlikely, but not as much as the previous ones. Generally this boils down to a question of what it means to actually be human or part of humanity.

None of these are really explaining anything, and most importantly, none of them take in account his very unique presenation of powers. The Emperor was even in his calmest moments so utterly overcharged with power that is literally hurt to look at him. People were literally getting their eyes burned out by golden light, and even those resistant and blessed with enhanced perceptive abilities like some of the Primarchs (such as Corax for example) barely managed to look underneath that aura. He had to be at the center of everything with his subjects and plans orbiting around him, a force of nature that only knew destruction to maim or burn what was standing in its way. Even now when forced to inactivity, and playing no active part, his presence alone is what keeps the Imperium alive. To the average individual he's ancient and utterly incomprehensible.

Now, just what does that remind you off? I'd say it would not be wrong to call him a "star", or rather a "sun" to be more precise. Move over Ludwig XIV absolutist tyrant of 17th century France, there's a new "Sun King" in town, because this guy lives up to the name better than some hoity-toity aristocrat ever could.

Now what does that all have to do with the Emperor's Origin? Let me give you another piece of information that is constant through 40k canon: you can't warp-jump inside solar systems. You need to move away from the center a bit to reach a jump-point from where it is safe to do it. The gravity of a star has an impact on the Warp, so would be be wrong to assume that a star could have a presence in the Warp as well? And since we know how weird the Warp can get when belief is involved, let's for a moment remember all the instances in ancient real-world history when people looked at the giant fireball in the sky, and were like "we could make a religion out of this".

The existence of there being a "Warp Avatar of the Sun" is not that weird when you think about it - the actual weird part is that it interacted with a human at some point. You see, stars exists on a timeframe that is close to incomprehensible to human brains. Sure, you can say "big number", but when you try visualizing billions of years, or the size of something that's a 10.000x larger than the actual planet you live on, our spongy thinking-organ just spits out an error code. The Warp-Manifestation of a star, assuming it was in any way even remotely sentient, would exist on a timeframe so different, that even a 100 millenia would barely register, and a single human trying to contact such a thing would be like a single bacterium trying to communicate with an elephant. Even the Chaos Gods do not exist on such a level, given how they were formed shaped by mortal minds and concepts.

And this opens up the chance for a scenario so absolutely unlikely that it would make sense that it had only happened once in the entire galaxy so far that we know off:

Someone actually making meaningful contact with a "sun" and surviving, which given the amount of energies involved must be almost impossible.

The "sun" in question actually noticing those commuication attempts and not just burning the Psyker away by merely giving it some attention, which would imply some sort of anomaly in the star itself.

Psyker and "sun" actually making a deal of some sorts for power, which would imply that the star has an actual interest in the fragile and fleeting world around it, even if it was just for a moment. What the "sun" would get out of it? Uncertain. Perhaps the powers that remained with the Emperor were just an aftereffect of their communication and nothing that was given or bestowed.

For all that to function, and given how wonky and unstable the Warp usually is, this is probably a ritual that even if you did all the steps correctly, it would only function properly purely by freak-accident while burning entire civilications in the progress. Given the potential collateral damage, it would not be surprising if all the Chaos Gods would oppose such a ritual taking place anywhere they had anything to say, as this might just wipe out all their followers in a region and burn all their influence away. Sure puts a different spin on the "Dark" in "Dark Gods" now does it? So we can add "several gods would cooperatively flood your area with demons to prevent the ritual from ever completing" to the list of why it has only happened once and then never again.

So tl,dr: the Emperor is Solar Powered

It just fits. And it would also explain how he could trick/bamboozle the Chaos Gods when it came to the creation of the Primarchs. Although "trick" might be the wrong word for them to be presenting the bill and him just saying "No. Get fucked." while blasting them off his planet. To tell all of the Chaos Gods to go to hell outside of the rules they had established, one has to get support from a source even more powerful than them, and there are not many things stronger in the universe in terms of energy output than the power of a star. Let's just hope than when the Emperor truly dies, he does not go full supernova on us...

[mmikmmik2]

If you were to sort the Infinity Train cast(s) into the Major Arcana a la the Persona games, which Arcana would you give everyone?

anon I had SOOOOO much fun thinking about this, thank you so much for sending me this. I sorted all the major characters, plus a few other entries, based on a mix of Arcana symbolism, Persona series character archetypes, and general vibes. I came up with answers I feel pretty good about for all but four of the Arcana. (Was really tempted to say Strength is every human character who doesn't board the train because they can handle their problems on their own lol.) This is going to be a long-winded post, so I thought I’d post just the list as an image (which hopefully won’t be too blurry!) rather than wrestle with Tumblr formatting trying to make a short list, and put a big text wall under the readmore talking more about my picks.

If this list does end up illegible, the same info is under the readmore as text! Plus some characters for Magician, Strength, Justice, and Death that I didn’t want to add to the “official” list because they’re more based on headcanon. (Although my reasoning for some of the “official” picks is pretty weak lol.)

One-One as 0. The Fool

Oh my gosh, what am I?

IT is great at fleshing out character backstories and families, so One-One at the beginning of S1 is one of the few characters who really feels like a blank slate. He's got a lot of his baggage back by the end of the season, and I think One and One-One are more similar than they seem at first glance, but S1 does seem to have been very formative for One-One and how he thinks about what he's supposed to be doing and how he relates to other people. So it does kind of feel like his fool's journey.

Alrick Timmens as I. The Magician

The magician begins the journey... by beefing it on a dirt bike, dying, and sending his wife flying off the deep end. Rip.

Alrick was an engineer like Amelia, so I could see him suiting some of the themes of the Magician, like conscious thought and manifesting ideas. His apparent playfulness and insecurity are similar to the Magician characters in Persona.

Kez as II. The High Priestess

“We can’t make this decision for you, Kez.” “You know what to do.”

I thought really hard about making Kez the Magician because just like every Magician since Persona 3, she's dumb, horny, and insecure dlkjasfdkl

(and also her showing up at the start of the story arc and being helpful but also super needy is very Magician)

But the idea of "intuition" really does suit Kez. Sometimes her intuition is as bad as her conscious reasoning, but I think that's a lot because she's so confused about what happened with Jeremy, and Morgan making Kez feel like she did a bad thing by helping him.

Tuba as III. The Empress

She made me feel like I was warm all the time.

Tuba's a mom. Sorry, this one's not that deep, haha.

Simon Laurent as IV. The Emperor

Highest number! I'm the leader now.

Simon has a lot of issues, but the one that felt the most prominent to me was his unhealthy relationship with power, authority, dominance, and rules. Another quote I considered using here was what he said in Grace's memory of meeting Amelia: "I never thought I'd get to see the Conductor with my own eyes. He's perfect! Everything finally makes sense again." In his emotional crisis, he thought everything could be fixed just by the existence of a huge, scary, powerful, male authority figure, even if they weren't doing anything helpful or informative.

Atticus as V. The Hierophant

I like to think that our stones are sturdy and handsome, like the Corgis that crafted them.

Atticus is a figure of traditional authority who deeply loves the history, society, and culture of his people. He often provides spiritual wisdom and encourages Tulip to get out of her own head and engage with the world around her. Also in Persona, Hiero is the Dad Arcana so it's very funny to me (a) to make the little dog be Hiero and (b) that the little dog really does have the strongest Wholesome Dad Energy of the whole cast.

Jesse Cosay as VI. The Lovers

Don't tell me what to do. I'm not going to be a part of anything like this, on or off the train.

This was my first and easiest pick lol, Jesse is sooooo Lovers. Like, the focus on choice and personal values and relationships? Yep, that's Jesse. It works on an "actual meaning of the Arcana" level and a "vibes with the Persona characters" level lol... popular, upbeat, and having such an identity crisis.

Lake as VII. The Chariot

I'm my own person, who is getting off this train!

I don't know if Chariot captures all the ways Lake grew over the course of S2, but I feel like they had the most externally focused conflict of all the IT characters, which suits Chariot. They've been fighting to stake out their personhood from start to finish, and they took action and used their willpower to achieve that goal. Also they have at least a little jock energy which is a prereq for Chariot tbh.

Frank as VIII. Strength

I dunno, I kinda imagine him as a simple man and easily underestimated, but with a lot of heart. The Cat may say they're keeping things casual but I don't think she'd take him with her on her private vacation unless he had some kind of inner toughness that would let him stand toe-to-toe with her.

Morgan as IX. The Hermit

I need to be alone right now. Kez... maybe... we can talk later.

I like that Morgan embodies toxic self-isolation and stonewalling and rejection, but that she seems to be moving towards the positive aspects of Hermit and taking some time to calm down and process and think. I like it when characters can embody the best and worst of their Arcana.

Tulip Olsen as X. The Wheel of Fortune

We have to adapt to the changes in our lives. It's the only way things can get better.

Tulip has a lot of themes and conflicts, but this one is a clear standout as the most important. I also like it for Tulip because, while she has to handle a lot of difficult and even traumatic situations, some of the change that challenges her isn't as unambiguously bad as e.g. the death of a loved one. It really is just change itself she's struggling with, and that's Fortune babey. Also, from the perspective of the train itself and lots of other characters, by reversing Amelia and One-One's positions again and changing how One-One administrates the train, Tulip is the one giving the wheel a spin. That's fun.

Lucy as XI. Justice

One of my friends once described the Justice characters in Persona as "the ones the player character is ultimately accountable towards", and I like to think of Lucy as kind of being that for Grace (...since Hazel has excused herself). Lucy is the Apex kid we see Grace interact with the most, the first Apex kid Grace admitted to herself that she had harmed (see Grace very briefly showing distress and then regret when Jesse points the harpoons at his face and she stops him), and the first person to confront Grace when she came home in The New Apex.

Min-Gi Park as XII. The Hanged Man

I don't know if we'll sell a single album, but we'll figure that out as we go.

Min-Gi sacrifices his "realistic", "sensible" goals for a more personally (spiritually, even?) enriching life that's beyond his control and outside of the expected norm. Like the Hanged Man, who dangles foolishly upside-down, but as a deliberate choice and in a state of serenity and enlightenment. I also think this arcana suits a reading of Min-Gi's character development as starting off going slower as a way to stall and live in denial, but then going slower with deliberation. Compare his arrogant insistence on refusing to act in The Astro Queue Car to his patience and care in The Castle Car and The Train to Nowhere.

Jeremy as XIII. Death

This isn't about the death of his family - I'm thinking of his reluctance to admit his number was going down. He cared about Morgan and Kez, and it's possible both that he may have really wanted to stay with them despite his exit and that that might even have been a healthy choice - they're real ass people with feelings and everything, not holodeck characters. But I also think Jeremy was using his life with them to avoid moving on out of that fog (because it was hard and it hurt and he didn't want to think about what that would mean for him and Morgan) and Morgan was enabling him.

Ryan Akagi as XIV. Temperance

Maybe the experience is the point. I wasn't just rushing you. I was rushing myself.

I think this one speaks for itself. Also, the other quote I considered putting here, from The Art Gallery Car: "You told me I can't appreciate the song without taking in the rest of the album. I need the whole package."

The Cat as XV. The Devil

I always do the right thing.

Honestly, this is one I really wasn't sure about. The Cat isn't a great pick for a lot of the meanings of Devil. She is definitely consumed by material comforts, and the short-term rewards of ignoring her issues at a long-term cost, though. This is more of a "vibes with Persona characters with this arcana" pick... Devil characters tend to start off being somewhat exploitative or even antagonistic towards the player character, and gradually showing a more conflicted and genuine side.

Amelia Hughes as XVI. The Tower

There's a hole in the universe where Alrick used to be.

Amelia's life is defined by catastrophe and upheaval - both those she's suffered and those she's inflicted on others.

Hazel as XVII. The Star

I'm going to keep loving you like you're still here.

When I think of "The Star" as a small but inextinguishable light in the darkness, Hazel seems like the obvious choice. Although we left her deeply wounded, I think she still has a flicker of her hope, faith, and purpose.

Grace Monroe as XVIII. The Moon

But it's unfair for me to tell you how to understand yourself. I mean, I don't even fully understand me.

Grace is probably the most complex and dynamic character on the show and hence one of the most difficult to place. I considered Empress, Strength, Devil, and Judgement for her... I think ultimately, lies and illusions are the most unifying theme of her character arc. Also, from a Persona angle, her pursuit of status out of a lack of true self-worth reminds me of Ai and Mishima.

Alan Dracula as XIX. The Sun

Brought together by the majesty of a superpowered deer!

I'm sorry dkjasfklads this is largely because I thought it was funny to have this completely inexpressive dead-eyed deer as Sun akfk but also... like... it kind of works okay!!! Think about the genuine joy and comfort and positivity he brings to Lake and Jesse (and me)!

The New Apex as XX. Judgement

"Then what are we gonna be?" "Guess we'll have to figure it out?"

This is kind of a Persona mythology gag again because of Judgement being a group social link near the end of the narratives of P3 and P4, when the protagonists have pierced through the lies and actually figured out who the villain of their game is and are ready to really start making progress.

0 as XI. The World

Ah, train does it again!

It's an ending and the completion of a journey, but also the beginning of a new one. And the world is literally what the passengers receive at the end of their train journey. Welcome home.

[a-blue-secret]

CHAPTER XV

BACK TO MASTERLIST

Chapter XIV | Chapter XV | Chapter XVI

GENRES: royal au; fantasy au; magic au; friends-to-enemies-to-lovers; king!beomgyu, vizier!taehyun

PAIRING: taegyu

WARNINGS: swearing, slight suggestive content (it's like 3 words)

WORD COUNT: 4.1k+

SUMMARY: Best friends turned enemies, Kang Taehyun has managed to trick Choi Beomgyu into his service, and to rule for a year and a day, until his youngest brother would be old enough to take the throne. Choi Beomgyu has no intention of being obedient however, and tries to thwart Taehyun’s orders at every turn. With a growing amount of distrust and lies within the court, will Taehyun manage to keep the kingdom of Gojongja from falling apart?

The knock came again.

“Come in!” Taehyun called.

.・゜-: ✧ :-

The door creaked open, and Beomgyu peered into the room. When he spotted Taehyun, his face immediately lit up and he rushed up to him, speaking a mile a minute.

“Are you okay, Taehyun? Oh my god when you suddenly passed out I was so worried because one minute you were fine but before I knew it you were swaying queasily and suddenly toppled over and I swear I’ve never felt more terrified than in that moment because Taehyun I literally thought you were going to die like your skin was so pale and then when the blueness started to form under your fingertips I became even more scared because even though you hate me and betray me like every week I don’t want you to die because you were my friend, my best friend and how am I supposed to run Gojongja without you? So when Yeonjun said that he’d be able to take care of you I was still terrified for your life and then when he said you were fine you have no idea how relieved I was because I literally thought you were going to die but I’m so glad you didn’t and that you’re alive and well– I mean, you’re alive but not exactly well because Taehyun, no offence but you look like shit.”

Finally Beomgyu stopped rambling, taking a deep breath in after his panicked monologue. “So how are you?”

Taehyun couldn’t help but smile. “I’m fine. But yeah, I feel like shit.”

Beomgyu brought up a stool to sit by Taehyun. “Did I mention you look like shit? Because you do.”

“Gee thanks, Beomgyu,” Taehyun said, rolling his eyes.

“Your welcome,” Beomgyu grinned. He reached forward and ruffled Taehyun’s hair. “Gosh, it’s not often I see you in such a vulnerable position. You look almost cute.”

Taehyun scowled, pushing away Beomgyu’s hand. “I can literally break your wrist with one squeeze of my hand.”

“Aw, don’t be so mean,” Beomgyu said teasingly. “My wrists are too pretty for you to break!”

“Uh huh.”

“But on a more serious note, why did you pass out? Was it the cakes?”

“Cakes?” Taehyun repeated, confused. Then his eyes widened. “Oh, those cakes.” He frowned. “I dunno. They didn’t taste off or anything. They certainly didn’t smell off. I don’t know.”

Beomgyu tapped his chin. “What did you eat before that?”

“Nothing,” Taehyun said. “I hadn’t eaten anything for two days.”

“Two days?” Beomgyu repeated, shocked. “Why not? You need to eat to sustain yourself! Otherwise you’ll fall sick?”

“Like you care,” Taehyun retorted. “Besides, it’s no big deal. I’ve gone a week without food before. Doing a vizier’s and a King’s work is hard, okay?” he said when Beomgyu continued to stare at him, aghast. “Anyway, I think it must have been the cakes. Where did you get it from?”

“Lord Soobin,” Beomgyu replied. “They were infused with the essence of his flowers, and he gave them to me but I gave them to you as an apology because you were mad at me.”

“Lord Soobin? Oh, no, he’s a good person. He can’t have hurt me intentionally,” Taehyun dismissed.

“He did say they were his own flowers he’d made… maybe he didn’t know they would react that way when cooked?” Beomgyu said.

“That has to be it,” Taehyun said. “He’s good. He just made a mistake, that’s all.”

Beomgyu nodded his head. “I have to agree. He was really kind, there’s no way he’d do that on purpose.”

“How’s Gojongja doing right now?” Taehyun asked.

“Not in flames, thankfully,” Beomgyu said. “You have no idea how stressful these last few days have been. People have been pestering me on your whereabouts. Because you disappeared so suddenly, it was obvious something was wrong and they’re all curious if you’d dropped dead or something.” He sighed. “Fending off the Lords is hard mentally, too. They’re just so thick it’s ridiculous.”

Taehyun gave a humourless laugh. “Tell me about it.”

“I don’t know how you do it, Taehyun. I thought that I was smart, but these past few days I’ve begun to question my own intelligence. There are so many little excuses I’ve told to quash any rumours from arising, and I barely remember half of them. This whole King business is harder than I thought. You’re amazing, Taehyun, you really are.”

Taehyun gave a sarcastic smile. “Duh. Did you not know?”

Beomgyu playfully rolled his eyes. “Course I did. That’s why you’re my vizier.” He paused. “Amongst other reasons. But anyway,” he carried on swiftly, “the Lords are being so annoying. They haven’t done anything big, but they’re just like pesky flies which keep buzzing around my ears. Honestly, wherever I go there’s one of them tailing me.”

Taehyun frowned. “That’s not good.”

“Don’t worry, though,” Beomgyu assured him. “I always remind them of the rule that they must stay at least fifteen feet away from the King and his vizier, so they shouldn’t give us any more trouble.”

Taehyun raised an eyebrow. “Is that an actual rule?”

“Yup,” Beomgyu said. “From a thousand years ago. In the time when Emperors ruled. A rule that was never revoked. So technically, it’s still in place.” He sighed, giving a sad pout. “But still, it’s so hard,” he whined, pout prominent in his voice. “You need to come back quick, Taehyun, okay? I can’t do this on my own. Why, just on the way here I was bombarded with servants telling me about some crystals you ordered for our chandeliers. I didn’t know what to tell them, and just told them to put it all in the ballroom, if that’s okay. I had no idea of how much you do for our court until I was doing it myself…”

At some point, Taehyun seemed to have zoned out. He was just staring absent-mindedly at Beomgyu’s lips as the other continued ranting, noticing how they were still so soft and pink despite how much he talked. And when they formed a pout… for some strange reason, he was mesmerised by them. They were the most convenient place for him to lay his eyes on, they were what stood out the most. Whatever it was, Taehyun’s eyes landed on them first and he hadn’t been able to take his eyes off them ever since. How had he never noticed their delicate shape, and the way they moved as Beomgyu pronounced each word? He’d been staring to the point it would be painfully obvious, but Beomgyu seemed oblivious to it. He just lamented to Taehyun about everything that had happened those past days, and if he noticed that Taehyun hadn’t been focused at all, he gave none of it away.

“–but you know, I tried my best. And hey, the kingdom’s still in one piece! I count that as a success.”

“You talk so much… why aren’t your lips dry and cracked?” Taehyun murmured. “They’re so pretty and perfect.”

Beomgyu blinked. “What did you say?”

Taehyun quickly snapped himself back to reality, shaking his head a little. “Nothing, nothing. I was just talking to myself.”

Beomgyu gave a confused smile, but didn’t question it. He glanced at the clock in the corner of the room, and jumped. “Oh, I need to go!” Taehyun looked up at him, confused, as Beomgyu stood up.

“Where are you going?”

“I’m going to take a look at the marble quarry that’s malfunctioned,” Beomgyu explained. “I thought I’d be able to do something about it.”

“You’re a wind manipulator, though? How are you going to help against radioactivity?” Taehyun grabbed Beomgyu’s sleeve. “Don’t go, it can be dangerous.”

“Wow, are you worried about me?”

At Taehyun’s annoyed glare, the teasing smirk on Beomgyu’s face melted into a gentle smile. He patted Taehyun’s hand which was still gripping onto his sleeve.

“Don't worry. I’m just going to talk to the supervisor. I’ll be fine. Don’t die while I’m gone, okay?” he called as he exited the room.

“I’ll try my best not to!” Taehyun called back. The last thing he saw was Beomgyu’s smiling face, before the door closed shut. He gnawed his bottom lip worriedly, frowning. Beomgyu must be doing a lot, it seemed, if he’d organised a trip to the malfunctioning rock quarry. At least Gojongja didn’t seem to be in danger of becoming out of control… but would Beomgyu be okay? His frown deepened as he remembered what had just happened. What was that, anyway? It wasn’t like him to zone out, and even less so to suddenly blurt out something random. Like that comment about Beomgyu’s lips… weird.

He snapped out of his reverie, and knocked three times on the wall beside the bed. A few minutes later, Hueningkai and Yeonjun appeared.

“Beomgyu was here for only an hour,” Hueningkai commented. “Did he need to go somewhere?”

“Yeah. He’s gone to look at a rock quarry to the east of Gojongja, where the palace gets most of its marble from. There’s been some abnormal radioactive instances lately, causing them to shut it down and he’s seeing why it happened. We need the marble to be able to replace our ballroom floor.” Taehyun smoothed out the bed sheets. “I’m kind of worried, because he’s going there without my guidance. What if he gets hurt?”

“Beomgyu has like a million guards,” Yeonjun reassured him. “I’m sure he’ll be fine.”

“Hmm. I hope so.” Taehyun suddenly whined, hitting the blankets in annoyance. “It’s so annoying being bedridden! Hueningkai, when can I get up again?”

Hueningkai felt his forehead, and checked his pulse. “You seem fine,” he said. “Because I’ve never seen the thing you had before, it’s a little hard to determine if you’ve healed. But, you look healthy, and sound healthy so… this afternoon, you might be able to walk around the room.”

“Oh, finally!” Taehyun gave a small whoop. Yeonjun laughed.

“You want to be able to walk that badly, huh?”

“Duh! I want to get up as soon as possible before something bad happens to Gojongja.”

Hueningkai grinned. “Alright then. We’ll check your condition in the afternoon.”

.・゜-: ✧ :-

“No, don’t get up too quickly– aaaand there he goes. Yeonjun, catch him!”

Taehyun, after having the many blankets removed from him, had sprung out of the bed faster than his brain was ready for, and with a dizzy head, had almost fallen over.

“Taehyun,” Yeonjun tutted. “You should know better than that. After lying down for four days, you need to get up slowly for your body to adjust to the changes!”

“Stop scolding me,” Taehyun muttered, clutching his spinning head. “It already hurts.”

“Maybe we should get you to lie down again,” Hueningkai suggested worriedly. “If it’s too much, we shouldn’t push–”

“No, no, I’m fine.” Taehyun pushed away Yeonjun’s hand, staggering onto his own feet. “Woah.” He held onto the drawers for balance. “Did the world always spin like this? No, no– I got this.” He held up a hand to Hueningkai, stopping the younger from approaching him. “There. There we go.” Taehyun closed his eyes tightly and opened them again, and the world ceased its queasy movement. “That’s better.”

Yeonjun and Hueningkai watched as Taehyun began to determinedly hobble around the room, his steps becoming more stable and confident with each passing second. Soon enough, he was walking normally, and strode back up to them with a grin.

“See? I’m perfectly fine.” He spread his arms wide and gave a little spin.

“You look fine too,” Hueningkai said. “You’re practically glowing with health.” He crossed his arms proudly. “I told you it was a super rejuvenator.”

“Thank you, Hueningkai,” Taehyun said. “And you too, Yeonjun, for taking care of me.”

“It was no problem,” Yeonjun replied easily. “You’re our friend now.”

Taehyun gave a delighted whoop, leaping around the room. “Oh, it feels so nice to be out of bed! This is like the best I’ve ever felt! I feel like I could do cartwheels and double backflips and all sorts!”

As Taehyun continued to excitedly run around, jumping off random bits of furniture and doing the odd flip now and then, Yeonjun and Hueningkai watched with smiles on their faces.

“Why does he look so much younger right now?” Yeonjun asked, smiling fondly.

“Because he looks happy,” Hueningkai responded. “Happiness does wonders for your complexion.”

When Taehyun almost knocked over the grandfather clock in his excited state, Yeonjun winced.

“But you can become giddy with too much happiness,” he said. “Should we stop him before he breaks something?”

“Oh, don’t worry about it.” Hueningkai went back over to the desk where all his equipment was. “Because he hasn’t gotten out of bed in ages, he’ll tire out quickly. Just you wait. In a few hours, he’ll be passed out on the bed again.”

.・゜-: ✧ :-

“Why am I… so… tired?”  Taehyun mindlessly curled his fingers around the silk sheets, face pressed against the mattress. “It’s only been two hours.”

“It’s what happens when you use up all your energy doing backflips and handstands,” Yeonjun said, preoccupied with making some books fly around the room like birds. When they were flying in a consistent pattern, he laughed delightedly. “Doesn’t that look cool?”

Taehyun wearily lifted his head to see. He watched as the books fluttered around, pages open like the wings of birds. “Eh. Cool enough.”

The books flew around for a few more seconds, before Yeonjun’s concentration dropped and they fell to the floor. “Why is it that when we’re emotionally heightened it’s easier to use our abilities?” he sighed. “It’s so annoying when objects suddenly hit me when I’m nervous.”

Taehyun lifted his head curiously at that. “Oh. Aruyeonan abilities work differently, right?”

“That’s right.” Hueningkai put down his goggles, looking at Taehyun. “Aruyeonans are already born with the knowledge on how to use their ability. It’s not something they learn, like here in Gojongja. And when they’re emotional, their abilities are more prone to getting out of control.” Hueningkai snickered. “I remember, the night before his first mission while Yeonjun was going over his plan-”

“We don’t talk about that,” Yeonjun interrupted. “We don’t talk about that, do we, Hueningkai?”

“Why, why? What happened?” Taehyun asked.

Yeonjun glared. “Don’t you dare tell him.”

Hueningkai gave a mischievous grin. “The curtains kept slapping his ass as he paced the room, the candles would randomly come to hit him on the head, and at one point his whip wrapped itself around his feet and tripped him over. You should have seen his face!”

Taehyun suppressed a laugh at the thought. Yeonjun leapt out of the chair and mimed strangling Hueningkai. “You little-” He sighed, dropping back into the chair. He covered his face with his hand, embarrassed. “...Curtains still get really touchy with me when I’m nervous.”

At that, Taehyun burst out laughing. Yeonjun only brought his other hand up to his face, trying to cover up the heavy blush.

“It’s so annoying too! When I’m pacing the room, they’ll stretch out to trip me up or wrap around my ankles or do some other weird stuff, and it just never stops! They turn into little whips and hit my ass all the time, and I just don’t know why.”

“Maybe they really like your ass,” Hueningkai said, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. Yeonjun groaned and threw a pillow in the younger Aruyeonan’s direction. Hueningkai ducked it, laughing. “What? Maybe it just reflects what you like in real life.”

Yeonjun groaned louder, throwing a book at Hueningkai. Hueningkai caught it in one hand, putting it down on the desk.

“Shut your pansexual ass.”

Hueningkai gasped. “You like my ass??”

“I said shut it!”

Hueningkai laughed as Yeonjun leapt out of the chair holding a pillow, and stalked up to the younger, repeatedly hitting him with the cushion. Taehyun watched them all, amused. When Hueningkai surrendered, Yeonjun retreated, patting the cushion nicely before putting it back onto the armchair.

“Sorry about that,” Yeonjun said. “Hueningkai needed a little discipline .”

Taehyun grinned. “It’s fine. I’m assuming he’s the pansexual friend you told me about before?”

“Yup.” Yeonjun propped his feet up on a small table, picking up his book.

Taehyun rubbed his nose, thinking about the things Hueningkai had just said. “Then you… you’re homosexual?”

Yeonjun watched him over the top of his book, amber eyes glowing. “Indeed I am. Would you… would you happen to have a problem with that?”

Taehyun didn’t say anything for a few moments. He frowned, thinking back to what Yeonjun had once said.

“If they leave, it’s a sign they don’t want to have anything to do with you, and sort of… neglect you, after you admit who you are. If they leave you, they can’t be that much of a good person, anyway. What kind of asshole wouldn’t accept you just because of your sexuality?”

Taehyun took a deep breath, and smiled. “Not really. I’m trying to be more accepting, and cut out the homophobic beliefs that Gojongja have drilled into my brain.”

Yeonjun stared at him, expressionless, before giving a tiny smile. He nodded approvingly, and went back to reading his book. “That’s good.”

Hueningkai tilted his head, a little confused about what was going on. “So… you used to be homophobic?”

“I had an… acquaintance,” Taehyun said. “He came out to me, and I reacted in a way that I can now see was wrong.” He nodded his head towards Yeonjun. “Yeonjun helped me see that. So now, I’m trying to be a little different in my approach towards these sorts of things, and be more careful about how I react.”

Hueningkai gave a smile. “I guess that must be hard, huh? As the prince, they’d probably ingrain their teachings into you harder than anyone else.”

“It’s hard,” Taehyun admitted. “My mind keeps telling me to walk away, to get away in case I get ‘contaminated’... but I’m trying to separate myself from those thoughts and try to form opinions of my own. It may be difficult, but I want to be able to do it. And maybe… maybe even eventually apologise to the first person who came out to me.”

“That’s good.” Hueningkai and Taehyun looked over to see Yeonjun smiling widely, a look of fond pride on his face. “This person: it’s Beomgyu right?”

Taehyun nodded mutely, looking a little ashamed. “I’ve done loads of thinking about it. And I can’t believe I acted that way. It makes me feel so bad.”

Yeonjun only smiled wider. “The fact that your opinions have changed drastically in only a short while is amazing. I think that when you first told me about it, you still thought that the way you acted had been right, but now… look at you.” His eyes shone brightly. “You’ve changed so much in, what? Three weeks?” He leaned back, still grinning. “I’m ridiculously proud.”

Taehyun stared at him, before giving a wide smile of his own. Leaning back against the headboard of the bed, he closed his eyes. He’d done a lot of thinking about why he’d reacted the way he did, when Beomgyu came out to him. The most obvious reason, of course, was because of Gojongja’s beliefs, and how ingrained they were in him. But Taehyun thought it was deeper than that. He could feel that it was deeper than that. Eyes still closed, he frowned, thinking. Even though Taehyun knew there was a deeper, more meaningful reason he’d acted the way he did, he still couldn't figure out just what that reason was...

.・゜-: ✧ :-

Taehyun hummed to himself, staring at the ceiling. He’d just run another lap around the room and was resting.

“Hey,” he said, and both spies looked up.

“You okay, Taehyun?” Yeonjun asked.

“You’re spies, right? What exactly do you do?”

Yeonjun coughed, setting down his book. “Well, uh… I, well, spy on the other Kingdoms. Queen Erajin would send me to other places as a representative, and I’d stay in that court, gathering the information she required until she thought she’d had enough, at which point I’d leave.” He nodded his head towards Hueningkai. “Hyuka, though, he has a different job.”

“I’m the chemical user,” Hueningkai said. “I make poisons and antidotes and explosives for Her Supremeness to use as she sees fit. Sometimes they’ll be given to Yeonjun to place in the court he’s going to. Like… like that marble.”

“Right, I’ve been meaning to ask. What was that marble? The one I found in the Discussion and Tactics room?”

“It’s one of my few hybrid marbles,” Hueningkai explained. “It’s a, uh, eavesdropper and data collector. It listens to conversations and records them, and also can scan the area at a fifteen metre radius around it, to collect data.”

Taehyun nodded thoughtfully. “When did you put it there, Yeonjun?”

“About a day or two before we met in the room,” Yeonjun admitted. “We used it to record you agreeing to the alliance, and any other important discussions that would happen in that room. But, since I wasn’t able to get it back, that data is lost.”

“Alright.” Suddenly, Taehyun gasped. “Wait, does that mean someone else can have access to it?”

“No, no,” Hueningkai reassured him hurriedly. “No. That’s what the trinitrotoluene is for.”

“There’s trinitrotoluene in there?” Taehyun asked, surprised. “Really?”

Hueningkai nodded. “Even though you can’t see its yellowness, it’s definitely there,” he said. “If someone tries to break through the glass, it’ll explode. The only one who would know how to open it properly would be me.”

Taehyun breathed a sigh of relief. “That’s good. I’m still upset you’d do something like that to us though.”

“It was our job, Taehyun,” Hueningkai sighed. “Even if we didn’t like it, we had to do it to survive.”

“Though we’ve never disobeyed her orders, I can only imagine the severity of the punishments if we didn’t carry out our missions,” Yeonjun said gravely. “That’s what people told us.”

“Oh, that reminds me,” Taehyun said, sitting up. “Who is Lord Hyunjin and what is his relation with you?”

Yeonjun blinked, and chuckled a little. “You and your formal way of speaking,” he said, smiling. “But, um, Hyunjin is the only Lord in Aruyeo who knows about Hueningkai and I being spies. I guess he was telling you to warn you.” He ruffled his hair. “He and I aren’t enemies, though. We were friends, and even stayed friends after Kai and I became spies.”

“He was like the only person who never bullied me,” Hueningkai added. “I like him. He’s nice.”

“I talked with Hyunjin a couple of days ago,” Yeonjun said, rubbing his neck. “He said the reason he told you about it was because, since we’re spies, it would be a bad idea for you to trust us. Plus, he said there’s something wrong with Queen Erajin, and he didn’t want you to give any information away that could be passed to her.”

“Come to think of it, everyone is telling us something is wrong in Aruyeo,” Hueningkai commented, frowning. “You and I seem to be the last ones to figure it out.”

“It looks like it, doesn’t it?” Yeonjun said, sighing. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door and Hueningkai dove under the bed. Yeonjun blinked, looking down at the young Aruyeonan.

“Hurry up and get the door!” Hueningkai whisper-yelled. Yeonjun’s lips twitched, looking at Hueningkai’s odd position, but strode to the door and opened it.

“It is my understanding that Sir Taehyun is resting in your room,” Heesung said. “I have been ordered to tell him that King Beomgyu will be returning to Gojongja in three days.”

Yeonjun looked at Taehyun who was sitting on the bed, before turning to Heesung again. “Thank you. I’ll tell him that.” He bowed to the guard, and closed the door.

“So, Beomgyu’s coming back?” Taehyun asked.

“Yep. There was no need for you to worry so much, was there? Sounds like he’s still alive.”

“I don’t want him to get potentially hurt,” Taehyun said, shrugging. When he caught Yeonjun wiggling his eyebrows at him, he tilted his head. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

“Nothing,” Yeonjun said, grinning. “It’s nothing.”

Hueningkai crawled out from under the bed, stretching his limbs uncomfortably. “Ugh, I hate when people come knocking without any warning,” he grumbled. “I have to constantly hide under the bed to not be seen, and I’m not exactly the most flexible person ever…”

Yeonjun snorted. “Oh yeah, I remember. You can’t even touch your toes can you?”

Hueningkai narrowed his eyes at Yeonjun. “One more word,” he warned. “One more word, and I’ll make you only able to speak Spanish for a whole month.”

“Come on!” Yeonjun groaned. “Last time it was a week! Why is it now a month?”

“Because you’re telling Taehyun! Not Hyunjin!”

“How does that make any difference??”

Taehyun chuckled, watching the two Aruyeonans bicker. He gave a sigh, leaning back against the headboard of the bed, stretching contentedly. Beomgyu was coming back. He was fully healed. Time to run Gojongja again.

taglist: @my-moarmy-heart​ @arohabangtan​ @a-fragmented-world​

[lafrantumaglia]

🌱💫🔮MY RANDOM HOROSCOPE🔮💫🌱

which includes: colors, planets, food, flowers, dog breeds, painters, tarot cards, pokemons, songs from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”, novels by haruki murakami and movies from studio ghibli

(2019 edition)

aries:

color: yellow /// celestial object: mars /// food: curried rice /// flower: daffodil /// dog breed: siberian husky /// famous painter: joan miró /// tarot card: the lovers (VI) /// pokemon: ninetales /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: warm blood /// haruki murakami novel: a wild sheep chase ///studio ghibli movie: my neighbor totoro

taurus:

color: brown /// celestial object: saturn /// food: burger and fries /// flower: carnation /// dog breed: shar pei /// famous painter: frida kahlo /// tarot card: the chariot (VII) /// pokemon: tauros /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: gimmie love /// haruki murakami novel: hear the wind sing, pinball 1973 /// studio ghibli movie: porco rosso

gemini:

color: white /// celestial object: mercury /// food: blue cheese /// flower: tulip /// dog breed: dachshund /// famous painter: edvard munch /// tarot card: the wheel of fortune (X) /// pokemon: ditto /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: when i needed you /// haruki murakami novel: norwegian wood /// studio ghibli movie: nausicaä of the valley of the wind

cancer:

color: purple /// celestial object: the moon /// food: soup /// flower: chrysanthemum /// dog breed: saint bernard /// famous painter: giotto /// tarot card: the moon (XVIII) /// pokemon: kingler /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: i didn't just come here to dance /// haruki murakami novel: 1Q84 /// studio ghibli movie: from up on poppy hill

leo:

color: gold /// celestial object: the sun /// food: creamy noodles /// flower: sunflower /// dog breed: chow chow /// famous painter: gustav klimt /// tarot card: the strenght (XI), the sun (XIX) ///pokemon: ho-oh /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: emotion /// haruki murakami novel: kafka on the shore /// studio ghibli movie: whisper of the heart

virgo:

color: pink /// celestial object: stars /// food: salad ///flower: jasmine /// dog breed: corgi /// famous painter: hieronymus bosch /// tarot card: the star (XVII) /// pokemon: gloom /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: boy problems /// haruki murakami novel: south of the border, west of the sun /// studio ghibli movie: ocean waves

libra:

color: lilac /// celestial object: venus /// food: ice cream /// flower: lotus flower /// dog breed: collie /// famous painter: claude monet /// tarot card: the justice (VIII) /// pokemon: alakazam /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: making the most of the night /// haruki murakami novel: after dark /// studio ghibli movie: only yesterday

scorpio:

color: black, silver /// celestial object: pluto /// food: pizza with black olives /// flower: rose /// dog breed: german shepherd /// famous painter: francisco de goya /// tarot card: the devil (XV) /// pokemon: gengar /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: black heart /// haruki murakami novel: hard-boiled wonderland and the end of the world /// studio ghibli movie: kiki's delivery service

sagittarius:

color: red /// celestial object: the earth /// food: tacos /// flower: gerbera /// dog breed: golden retriever /// famous painter: wassily kandinsky /// tarot card: the magician (I) /// pokemon: charizard /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: run away with me /// haruki murakami novel: the wind-up bird chronicle /// studio ghibli movie: princess mononoke

capricorn:

color: dark green /// celestial object: jupiter /// food: barbecue /// flower: lily /// dog breed: greyhound /// famous painter: raphael /// tarot card: the empress (III), the emperor (IV) /// pokemon: ampharos /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: your type /// haruki murakami novel: dance dance dance /// studio ghibli movie: spirited away

aquarius:

color: light blue /// celestial object: uranus /// food: sushi /// flower: cherry blossom /// dog breed: shiba inu /// famous painter: henri matisse /// tarot card: the temperance (XIV) /// pokemon: lugia /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: all that /// haruki murakami novel: sputnik sweetheart /// studio ghibli movie: the wind rises

pisces:

color: dark blue /// celestial object: neptune /// food: black coffee /// flower: hydrangea /// dog breed: beagle /// famous painter: pablo picasso /// tarot card: the high priestess (II), the hierophant (V) /// pokemon: tentacruel /// song from carly rae jepsen’s album “emotion”: LA hallucinations /// haruki murakami novel: colorless tsukuru tazaki and his years of pilgrimage /// studio ghibli movie: howl's moving castle

can you guess my sign???

[fist-and-fury-xiv]

Trust NPC | Otolin Stone

Selection: “Let’s get this done.” 

Job: MNK (DPS)

Weapons: Emperor’s New Fists

AI Behavior: Utilizes the abilities and kit of a MNK, but seems to tend a more defensive and conservative playstyle. Will avoid AoE and often tries to be the first to assist with mechanics around stacking to soak damage; sometimes takes on the role of a tank that needs to stand in front of an enemy’s charge, and seems to excel in such scenarios.

Activates Fists of the Earth at the beginning of a fight, and then transitions to Fists of Wind only when reaching three stacks of Greased Lightning; will keep to the latter for the remainder of the fight. Will use Mantra during high damage phases and keeps up Riddle of Earth when necessary. Doesn’t put out as much damage as your standard MNK. 

Often has the /focused or /furrow expressions toggled on. Will emote on occasion. Some circumstances allow for more personalized dialogue with certain party members, but these have proven difficult to find.

Battle Lines:

“Fight smart.” - Starting Attack Line “Opening two...” - Using Specialty Skills, Variation 1 “Opening four...”  - Using Specialty Skills, Variation 2 “Found a weak spot.” - Scoring a critical hit “I am here!” - When assisting an ally 

Limit Break:

“I don’t want to do this but…” - Using LB1 “Opening five…” - Using LB2 A slightly sad but determined “Opening six…” - Using LB3

KO’d:

“It doesn’t hold the way it… used to…” - Variation 1 A surprisingly loud and exuberant “Damn!” - Variation 2

Revived:

“Thank you.” - Variation 1 “Do not mention this to… never mind…” - Variation 2

Dungeon Complete:

“Do not worry. I’ll be at your side going forward.” - Variation 1 “Check the wounded. Fan out. There may be others.” - Variation 2 [if a party member is still down]

Tagged by: @elven-enclave, @vanitysruin

Tagging: @severine-savage, @ivenne, @etani-a, @carrefxur, @garlean-nonsense, @she-wants-the-d20, @esmenanenda, @ladyrivienne, @aethersmoke-and-ash, @verkoh, @nuray-ffxiv, @ahlis-xiv and any other folks who wanted to tackle this prompt! 

[p-isforpoetry]

"A Lovers' Quarrel" by Robert Browning (read by Richard Mitchley)

I. Oh, what a dawn of day! How the March sun feels like May! All is blue again After last night's rain, And the South dries the hawthorn-spray. Only, my Love's away! I'd as lief that the blue were grey,

II. Runnels, which rillets swell, Must be dancing down the dell, With a foaming head On the beryl bed Paven smooth as a hermit's cell; Each with a tale to tell, Could my Love but attend as well.

III. Dearest, three months ago! When we lived blocked-up with snow,--- When the wind would edge In and in his wedge, In, as far as the point could go--- Not to our ingle, though, Where we loved each the other so!

IV. Laughs with so little cause! We devised games out of straws. We would try and trace One another's face In the ash, as an artist draws; Free on each other's flaws, How we chattered like two church daws!

V. What's in the `Times''?---a scold At the Emperor deep and cold; He has taken a bride To his gruesome side, That's as fair as himself is bold: There they sit ermine-stoled, And she powders her hair with gold.

VI. Fancy the Pampas' sheen! Miles and miles of gold and green Where the sunflowers blow In a solid glow, And---to break now and then the screen--- Black neck and eyeballs keen, Up a wild horse leaps between!

VII. Try, will our table turn? Lay your hands there light, and yearn Till the yearning slips Thro' the finger-tips In a fire which a few discern, And a very few feel burn, And the rest, they may live and learn!

VIII. Then we would up and pace, For a change, about the place, Each with arm o'er neck: 'Tis our quarter-deck, We are seamen in woeful case. Help in the ocean-space! Or, if no help, we'll embrace.

IX. See, how she looks now, dressed In a sledging-cap and vest! 'Tis a huge fur cloak--- Like a reindeer's yoke Falls the lappet along the breast: Sleeves for her arms to rest, Or to hang, as my Love likes best.

X. Teach me to flirt a fan As the Spanish ladies can, Or I tint your lip With a burnt stick's tip And you turn into such a man! Just the two spots that span Half the bill of the young male swan.

XI. Dearest, three months ago When the mesmerizer Snow With his hand's first sweep Put the earth to sleep: 'Twas a time when the heart could show All---how was earth to know, 'Neath the mute hand's to-and-fro?

XII. Dearest, three months ago When we loved each other so, Lived and loved the same Till an evening came When a shaft from the devil's bow Pierced to our ingle-glow, And the friends were friend and foe!

XIII. Not from the heart beneath--- 'Twas a bubble born of breath, Neither sneer nor vaunt, Nor reproach nor taunt. See a word, how it severeth! Oh, power of life and death In the tongue, as the Preacher saith!

XIV. Woman, and will you cast For a word, quite off at last Me, your own, your You,--- Since, as truth is true, I was You all the happy past--- Me do you leave aghast With the memories We amassed?

XV. Love, if you knew the light That your soul casts in my sight, How I look to you For the pure and true And the beauteous and the right,--- Bear with a moment's spite When a mere mote threats the white!

XVI. What of a hasty word? Is the fleshly heart not stirred By a worm's pin-prick Where its roots are quick? See the eye, by a fly's foot blurred--- Ear, when a straw is heard Scratch the brain's coat of curd!

XVII. Foul be the world or fair More or less, how can I care? 'Tis the world the same For my praise or blame, And endurance is easy there. Wrong in the one thing rare--- Oh, it is hard to bear!

XVIII. Here's the spring back or close, When the almond-blossom blows: We shall have the word In a minor third There is none but the cuckoo knows: Heaps of the guelder-rose! I must bear with it, I suppose.

XIX. Could but November come, Were the noisy birds struck dumb At the warning slash Of his driver's-lash--- I would laugh like the valiant Thumb Facing the castle glum And the giant's fee-faw-fum!

XX. Then, were the world well stripped Of the gear wherein equipped We can stand apart, Heart dispense with heart In the sun, with the flowers unnipped,--- Oh, the world's hangings ripped, We were both in a bare-walled crypt!

XXI. Each in the crypt would cry ``But one freezes here! and why? ``When a heart, as chill, ``At my own would thrill ``Back to life, and its fires out-fly? ``Heart, shall we live or die? ``The rest. . . . settle by-and-by!''

XXII. So, she'd efface the score, And forgive me as before. It is twelve o'clock: I shall hear her knock In the worst of a storm's uproar, I shall pull her through the door, I shall have her for evermore!

Source: The Poetry of Robert Browning, 2019

[barbariccia]

potential archfiends xiv raid!

as mentioned yesterday, i’ve now spent an obscene amount of time putting this together. i desperately want 4′s archfiends as a raid, and i know i’m not the only one - so i took the liberty of putting together a fake raid, because i’m a fucking nerd.

pls note i still consider myself new to mmos and i have NO idea what the fuck i’m talking about. pls don’t call me out on any mistakes, this is just harmless fun.

@dravanian @golbez @vaguerantstory y’all are the ones i know that would want to read this most, so, enjoy! :D (ashy idk if that’s tagged you properly hhh)

FINAL WORD COUNT: 4786

Duty Finder Updated! Tower of Bab-Il now accessible.

garlemald has that big tower sticking out of the clouds, so it's an area that wouldn't be reached until (theoretically) 5.0. ilsabard proper takes a long time to traverse through; you're fighting garleans at every pause for breath and hearing stories of viceroys and commanders and every arm of the army is out to get you, as the WoL. you overhear at one point that there is a secretive branch to the garlean army known as ARCH. reports on how many soldiers belong to it vary, and it's so secretive that no one save the emperor knows what they do. it's up to you to find out.

->pre-raid quest

you follow npcs around garlemald listening to every report you can. mostly they're junk, but you hear one or two talking about ARCH. following them leads to an instance where you kick the crap out of a fairly high-ranking legatus. the npc that introduces you to this quest takes them away to interrogate them and comes back with information: ARCH is where high-ranking turncoats are taken for re-education. they're located in BAB-IL, that tall tower.

RAID: -you enter via a cave system similar to getting out of binding coil.

TIER 1 - BASEMENT

there's lots of undead crawling around. lots of enemies that stun or hold you in place. you fight your way to the staircase that leads up, which is blocked by a small, robed figure. he mocksssss you the entire fight. SCARMIGILONE PHASE 1 - every melee attack is countered with a thunder spell, which has a 50/50 chance of stunning for 3 seconds. tanks don't need to worry about holding him as he throws out large aoe voidal spells at random. healers and dps must avoid as they'll get debuffed (silence, blind, stun) as well as take damage. phase 1 isn't difficult to beat him down. at the end of phase 1 he'll become untargetable and stumble backwards with his arms out, intending to stop the player from ascending the stairs no matter what. he trips on his robe and falls off the edge of the arena.

SCARMIGLION PHASE 2 - doesn't start until the player approaches the staircase. spoken prompts appear: "[laughter]" "impressssive...." "but my true strength lies in death!" milon appears at the back of the arena, pulling himself up and over the edge - he's about four times as larger as he was before. full zombie looking. he slams the floor which removes the edge barrier - you can now fall off the arena! -slow, untelegraphed melee attack. get out of the way of these as they'll hit multiple people and push them backwards. tanks need to turn him away from the party and watch out! -mages that cast fire magic will find themselves debuffed pretty quickly! he'll counter with Gas. a marker will appear on the target. the further you are from him, the less time the debuff will last for. -when someone uses holy against him, another prompt will appear that is him screaming in agony. -he is weak against fire, so healers should be ready with esuna to cure mages. spamming fire and holy will end the battle quicker. after the second holy spell is cast, he'll summon multiple zombie adds that will tether against him and make him invulnerable. burn the adds and then the rest of the way.

at the end of the encounter, he'll fall backwards off the arena again, this time for good. the party can now ascend the stairs.

TIER 2 - HALLS

this area is eerily deserted, at least at first. partway through, a Familiar Faced Soldier will run up to you. spoken prompt: "[huff... puff...]" "have you come to stop the emperor?" "he's here, this is your chance to defeat him for good!" "hurry up!" he then runs off. from here monsters will spawn in, and the soldier will chide you for wasting time killing them. nothing special, just garlean soldiers. there's a big door at the end of the hallway. spoken prompt: "here it is... the throne room." "heh heh heh..." a short cutscene plays when the door opens. it shows the party walking into the halls, with the soldier leading the way. within the hall are several soldiers that all turn to face you. the throne is empty.

BOSS 1- BAIGAN

each party will need to take up positions at the left, right and centre. parties on left and right will need to target baigan's arms; the centre will need to target baigan himself. there's a lot of adds that's going to spawn. this is just a dps check - baigan, untargetable, is going to long-cast a spell that drains the soldiers left alive of their remaining power, much like halicarnassus of haukke hard. having said that, there's a LOT of soldiers. when you think you've got them all, think again, because the door to the throne room opens and more run in.

the spell baigan casts stuns everyone for a couple of seconds and allows him to reveal his true, monstrous form. from then it's pretty standard. has a tankbuster move, followed by wide conal aoe. disabling his arms will stop the tankbuster. healers keep on your toes! at 25% trash soldiers will flood in and he'll start his longcast again. burn the trash to prevent him from regen-ing health, and focus the rest on him.

after this another short cutscene. WoL will approach the empty throne. the doors will open, and in walks the emperor. emperor: "well, well, baigan. that won't do. not if we're to take the throne." [WoL shocked] emperor: "hahahaha. garlemald will prevail... even if it's not by the true emperor's hand!"

the fake emperor sweeps out of the hall. you have to retrace your steps all the way through this part of the dungeon. you see him cast magic and step onto a transporter, and you follow him.

on the other side, the makeup of the tower is markedly different. it looks darker, foreboading, vast and empty of garlean insignia. at the end of the room, a throne, with the fake emperor sitting on it, looking bored. he stands as you approach.

BOSS 2 - CAGNAZZO PHASE 1 he fights very slowly but hits very hard. multiple aoes at the same time, wide cleaves that send the party flying back. occasionally he'll summon a shield, much like ravana. attack from only one side during this time or get a debuff. at 90%, he'll roar, and burst forth from his armor.

PHASE 2 a terrible monster, cagnazzo is much larger than scarmiglione. as with baigan, his feet are targetable, as is his head - although his head will not take damage until at least 50% has been inflicted on both feet. -bite attacks target a single player and holds them for several moments, taking ongoing damage -Bile, a puddle that slows when walked in and stacks Scent Of The Sea on the player. if the player has 3 stacks of Bile, cagnazzo will ignore aggro and Bite the player. SOTS increases damage vulnerability, making this one harder to heal through. -frontal swipe

at 50% he'll retreat into his shell and stop taking damage, but it's important the party doesn't stop inflicting it! he's trying to heal himself. the breaks to his concentration stop him from regening health. after 30secs he'll roar again and reemerge, shielded.

PHASE 3 (SHIELD) he'll still turn up as INVULNERABLE but you need to burn his shield super quick. he'll have another health bar appear that's a different colour. BURN HIM. if the shield's still up after the 1min mark the raid will wipe. he's charging a tsunami move. -tsunami: he summons water that comes flooding into the room. the pressure of the water is too much to bear and everyone wipes.

PHASE 4 (POST SHIELD) when his shield is taken down his actual shell will crack noticably. one part of the raid should concentrate damage on the exposed carapace, the other draws his attention from the head. he reverts to using bite, bile and his swipe. at 25% he'll summon: -tidal wave same animation as tsunami, but washes everyone in the raid to one side of the arena. anyone debuffed from bile will die immediately. -he'll cast bile more often after this. at 10% he'll cast tidal wave again.

after the battle, he won't die immediately- he'll be untargetable and start a cast bar. the raid must focus damage on the doors they came in by, which are now targets! the cast bar will go for 40 secs. there are pillars in each corner of the room; every 10 secs he'll lash out and destroy one. if the party is still in the room when the cast ends they'll be crushed by the ceiling. everyone has to focus damage on the doors and run through them immediately.

TIER 3 - FROM ON HIGH

a cutscene plays. the party, bewildered, gets up from their teleporter pad that they ran into. they don't recognise where they are. it seems like the outside of the tower - they're really high up. clouds will obscure the player's vision as they ascend. mobs include: -birds and other flying enemies that swoop in from the skies -a dragoon at the halfway mark

you need to ascend the outer walls. there's a staircase with plenty of little nooks and crannies to hide in for when the WIND PICKS UP. you can and will fall off the edge here. if you're caught outside of a nook when the wind rises you'll be swept off. if you walk off the edge of the stairs you're dumb and deserve your stupid death.

it'll take some time. the higher you get the more flying mobs appear.

at the halfway mark, you'll reach a flat platform. here is where the dragoon appears. he's not a boss, doesn't speak, isn't wearing garlean colours. there's no indication to his identity. the staircase continues on the other side of the platform, but as you walk over...

BOSS - MAGUS SISTERS

your way is interrupted by a very tall spear-wielder. the way back down is blocked by a small girl with knives. from the sky jumps a very round enemy, who cracks the platform.

speech prompt: "i am sandy!" "mindy!" "cindy!" "we are the magus sisters!" sandy: "so sorry to meet you like this." mindy: "it's the end of the line!" cindy: "get ready!!"

each party needs to focus on one sister. they each have their own attacks.

SANDY, THE SPEAR-WIELDER: -doesn't fight like a dragoon, she uses the spear as an extension of her arm -thusly: wide frontal cone aoe and a spin move. both push the party back. -four-part jab to whoever's in front of her. tanks need to position this away from the party as she follows up with an immediate wide-conal swipe.

MINDY, THE CHILD -very fast, can bounce from pc to pc -marked PCs will be next in line for her attacks! she'll dart from one to the next. shields and cooldowns will prevent the bleeding debuff. -spins around the arena, dealing damage in a circle around her. get out of the way!

CINDY, THE LARGE -has the largest health pool of the sisters -very slow attacks, but they hurt a lot. at least two different tankbusters. -jumps around the platform for aoe damage.

note: the platform has no edges. watch where you're running!

when each sister's health is brought to a certain threshold, they'll charge their delta attack. this is where the raid group intermingles. tank level 2 or 3 lb is needed to survive. sandy will cast reflect on cindy and mindy will charge DELTA ATTACK. melee/phsyical ranged dps need to attack cindy to avoid damage being reflected. magical ranged dps should burn mindy in the meanwhile. tanks hold sandy's attention and avoid her knockback jabs. when mindy's dead, it's a case of burning the other two in quick succession and carrying on.

keep going up the staircase, following the same rules as before. look off the side: you'll see a figure circling the tower! this is barbariccia. close to the top she'll shoot up past the party and laugh. she's waiting for you at the top, on the next platform.

TIER 3.1 - BARBARICCIA

PHASE 1 she's very graceful, and she laughs even more than garuda does. she's another quick boss, with a lot of annoying debuffs. the entire raid will be attacking her at once. there is still no wall to this arena.

-stone claws: inflicts a petrification debuff on a target, and stacks HEAVY FOOTED on that pc. stacks of 5 inflict petrification that cannot be esuna'd away. she'll use this often. -doesn't follow normal aggro rules. she can be PROVOKED into turning toward a tank, which you'll need to do for her longcasts. uses stone claws mostly on dps, but she can and will go for healers as well. -healers need to watch out for maelstrom. this is the worst of the three longcasts. anyone in her range of vision (get behind her!) will be stunned in place, unable to move as she calls down a whirlwind to sap them of all strength. the pc will be reduced to 1hp. healers need to cure IMMEDIATELY as she follows up with a spinning attack that doesn't knock the players back, but inflicts 3-4k~ damage. -another longcast (not as long as maelstrom) is her lightning attack. it'll target random players and stun for 4 seconds.

at 50% she'll fly up out of range. use this time to heal!!! when she comes back down the entire platform will take damage. speech prompt: "i'll put an end to you all!"

PHASE 2 once the platform has taken damage, she'll change shape into a whirlwind. she'll stop using stone claws now, and instead switch to: -FULMINATION, which casts silence on the target (10sec), inflicts heavy (10sec) and stacks. -melee damage has an auto-counter for 1-2k.

at 30% she'll fly out of target and adds will spawn. PHASE 3 - ADDS -melee dps will want to focus on the Brainwashed Soldiers that start to march onto the platform. they'll come slowly, but a single dps won't be able to burn them. -magic dps will want to focus on the Wind Shades that ping into existence. they have magic vulnerability, explode on death, and if not dealt with quickly enough, grow into a larger whirlwind that sucks party members in and inflicts heavy damage. -tanks should come out of tank stance briefly to help with the dps.

PHASE 4 with all the adds dead, barbariccia will pop her ultimate. a speech prompt will appear: "Curse you!" and multiple quick aoes will target at random. there's less than two seconds to get out of these, so just keep moving! they'll do about 2-3k damage for each hit taken. after 10secs of this there'll be a lull wherein you can target barbariccia again. -she starts using stone claws again, quicker than in phase 1

-at 10% she'll scream and cast maelstrom again. anyone in front of her will go down to 1hp; she'll follow up with a spin move that you have to get out of the way of, and then immediately another speech prompt will appear.

"Disappear, along with this tower!"

she'll summon a tornado on the outer rim of the platform that quickly starts encroaching on the rest of the arena. from here it's a dps check. burn her until she's dead or you'll wipe.

once she's dead, she'll scream, and the tornado will sweep the party away - though harmlessly, if you've done it right! you wake up on the floor. getting up, you hear an unfamiliar voice. "I've restored thee to full strength. hie thee to mine master's chambers..."

TIER 4 - DARK PASSAGES

the halls are getting progressively narrower. trash mobs include Brainwashed Conscripts and Unwilling Subjects. As you think you're coming closer to the final room, the doors to it will close and another set will open. inside is...

BOSS - LUGAE

speech prompt: "Interrupted! Get out! OUT!"

lugae himself is fairly easy to burn through, but he'll summon BARNABUS as he dies.

BOSS - BARNABUS

more challenging than lugae, he has mostly tankbuster moves. more than anything it's another dps check. if you're fighting him for too long he'll cast POISON GAS on the entire party which cannot be removed and will sap your strength quicker than can be regen'd.

he'll drop a key, which opens the way to the final chambers. there are 2 figures in here: one clad in armour of the blackest night, and another that stands in front of him, head to toe in red.

speech prompt: "we have been expecting you. rubicante?" "as you wish, my lord."

the red figure steps forward. "i am rubicante, the autarch of flame. allow me to restore thee." he does so. all debuffs are removed. "and now..." "we fight."

PHASE 1 - RUBICANTE

he's a bitch to fight because he heals himself. not for a lot, but enough to be annoying. physical attacks will do less damage than magical. -throws out fire-based aoes fairly often. dodge these. -he will actively throw these aoes out attempting to push you to the wall. there's no edge to this stage, so you might think it's safe... -but if more than seven members across the raid reach the wall, he'll cause a wall of flame to burst. this will inflict the BURNING status on anyone touched and deal heavy damage. -from hereon the wall of flame will remain up. dodge th aoes without getting burned!

once he's been pushed to about 50%, he'll start counting down out loud from 5. when he hits 2 he'll open his cloak and gain damage vulnerability; bleed him during this time!

RUBICANTE'S ULTIMATE: INFERNO

it's entirely possible to survive without popping tank LB lvel 2/3, but it'll hurt you. anyone that doesn't die will have ongoing burning debuff. -his aoes will get quicker now -with his cloak closed he's back to taking regular amounts of damage, but he'll have a couple of new mechs: -frontal swipe, similar to barbariccia -a stomp that stuns, untelegraphed circle aoe -occasionally he'll open his cloak suddenly; this acts as a knockback. you want to memorize how he looks before he opens this so you can get out of the way or you'll be pushed into the burning wall and incur extra damage.

at 15%, his mechs will change again.

PHASE 2 - RUBICANTE

he starts throwing out aoes at particular aggro-holders. anyone at positions 2-4 on the enmity scale he'll start to target (tanks should take care to move). this is going to be a dps-swap mixup: the aoes he casts are still fire, but they'll heal him if the telegraph is over him as well. he won't move while casting and it'll pop immediately, so dps need to take care to swap out to make sure they aren't standing near him when this goes off. -burn him the rest of the way.

when rubicante falls, he'll apologise to the figure still watching. a cutscene plays...

"you have defeated my archfiends. what, pray tell, is your goal, here?" WoL looks determined to fight. "very well."

PHASE 1 - GOLBEZ

golbez moves slow but hits HARD. doesn't telegraph, but his reach is really wide, so you're gonna want to learn what his moves look like and get the hell out of the way. as a warlock, he casts a lot of spells, but he can and will deliver devastating physical attacks.

-firaga is raid-wide and unavoidable. he'll telegraph by bringing both arms toward himself in a "preparing to throw the ball" motion. put up shields and ready your heals. heavy damage, brief burning debuff. -blizzaga, telegraphed by both arms over his head.this is going to place several ice-aoes at random positions around the centre of the room - 6 in total - and then finish with 4 ice-aoes close together in the centre of the room. get hit by more than 1 and you're afflicted with deep freeze. -thundaga will mark 10 players with a purple marker and another 10 with a yellow marker. this is raid-wide. purple marks will want to stack in the centre of the room. yellow marks need to spread out around the the edge of the room. the spell will initially hit the purple marks - the more people are stacked, the less damage it'll do - and then arc toward the yellow marks. the closer the yellows are to the purples, the more damage they'll take. the closer the yellows are to each other, the more damage they'll take. this is a positioning trick and will be a bitch to maneuver.

PHASE 2 - GOLBEZ

get him down to 70% and he'll cast BINDING COLD. everyone in the room will be STUNNED, and he'll immediately summon a SHADOW DRAGON to fight alongside him.

BOSS - SHADOW DRAGON -with the raid still stunned, she'll use an unavoidable BLACK FANG that will mark everyone with DOOM. you'll have a 30 second counter with this debuff. -golbez will be charging another spell in the meantime; don't bother attacking him. -dps need to bleed shadow dragon quickly. when hurt enough she'll drop a DRAGON SCALE, which needs to be interacted with immediately - it'll remove all doom debuffs. -if the doom counter reaches 0, you'll die.

-from hereon, shadow dragon will be fairly simple. spiral attacks, single-target heavy damage.

get rid of shadow dragon or she'll cast black fang again, and you need to start working on golbez again.

PHASE 3 - GOLBEZ

when shadow dragon dies, or within a certain amount of cast time, golbez will cast BARRIER. you'll need to work together as the raid to deal particular kinds of damage, as he'll BARRIER SHIFT every 15~ secs or so! anything that he's not weak to will show up as INVULNERABLE. attacks otherwise will land as normal. it follows a particular pattern: -immune to striking attacks -immune to magical attacks -immune to slashing attacks -immune to piercing attacks

this cycle will not deviate from the pattern. take him down by 5% each time to automatically force the barrier shift, or he'll change barrier every 120 seconds. this is going to continue along with his normal aoes from phase 1 until you bring him down to 40%.

PHASE 4 - GOLBEZ

this is where he starts swiftcasting. not much to it other than his aoes are going to hit faster, and probably two at a time. lightning aoe will need to run to the edge and then away from if blizzaga hits immediately after, etc. his animations will not change, so someone will need to keep an eye on him and probably yell to the raid what he's about to do. this goes on until  10%.

PHASE 5 - GOLBEZ

he's charging his ult at this point. he can't be interrupted or stunned, and you need to just burn him as quickly as possible. standard dps check. bust out the limits. healers need to concentrate on keeping everyone as topped up as possible. healers really need to prepare for the end of the battle, where his ult will pop whether you kill him in this time or not. WHM: pop asylum, divine benison, and heal until everyone's full. SCH: pop succor and sacred soil. AST:nocturnal sect.

his ultimate will go off when you bleed him to 0, or after a set amount of time. if he hasn't been brought down completely, the raid will wipe when the spell hits, otherwise you'll just take a lot of heavy damage. he casts METEO; a length animation, where the force of the spell rips the top of the tower off and a meteor slowly crashes into the arena, flattening everyone, including golbez himself.

TIER 5 - ????

you wake up in darkness. WoL gets to their feet. to the side, the dead body of golbez. you stagger on, through the darkness, away from the body. there's no indication of where you are. speech: "you tread the path of darkness." WoL stops, looks around. speech: "not even your precious crystal will shed light for you here." from seemingly nowhere, a mysterious robed figure glides into view. they have eyelidless, white eyes, dark blue skin, and you can't tell whether it's hovering or not. its robes seem to be made of darkness. speech: "i will stain you with shadows..."

PHASE 1 - ZEMUS

from the slow way he moves and stalks across the battlefield (much like zenos) you'd be hard pressed to think he's attacking you at all. follows normal aggro rules. tanks need to keep him moving, though. if he's stationary for more than a few seconds he'll cast a powerful knockback spell that casts several debuffs (heavy, slow, blind, silence) and inflicts heavy damage. this is a game of cat and mouse. keep him moving, dps don't let up, healers watch out for a tell-tale hand movement that will be status affliction on a random player.

continues until you get a speech prompt: "wellspring of darkness..." "give me your power!" "i, zemus, feed unto you my hatred..." "please!!"

PHASE 2 - ZEMUS

zemus is surrounded by something that looks like WAR's defiance buff. he has magic vulnerability down, damage dealt up, and now he's actually starting to hit back.

-tanks don't need to keep him moving. face him away from the party. there's no wall to pull him to, as you're still fighting in darkness. -he'll spawn adds in, wisps called DEATHLY PALLS. deal with these immediately, or they'll affix to a player and sap them of health until they're dead. -he'll start throwing out quick aoes. get out of these. they're voidal puddles that'll remain; they're dark, but you'll still be able to see them... just. don't step in them or you'll be cursed with debuffs. -frontal arm sweep that pushes people back, usually after he's dropped a load of voidal puddles

speech prompt at 50%: "NO!!!" "i am..!" "NAUGHT BUT HATE!"

PHASE 3 - ZEROMUS

the party is stunned as zeromus rips out of his host's skin. zemus expands, every pore birthing an otherworldly voidkin with menacing moue and terrifying laugh.

speech prompt: "DIE!"

-summons another meteor. this cannot be avoided, and everyne should huddle under healer barriers. a good time to heal up. -anyone casting holy will find themselves being countered with FLARE, dealing about 5-6k damage. -untelegraphed attack that shoots him in a straight line across the battlefield in whatever direction he's facing. anyone caught up will be stunned. heavy damage. -CURSE OF HATRED: telegraphed lines that go off in various directions, like titan ex's landslide. immediately followed by multiple VOIDAL CALLS around the battlefield. dps work together to burn adds (voidkin).

at 30%..

PHASE 4 - ZEROMUS

he'll cast BIG BANG. pop as many cooldowns as you can. you'll need them. inflicts massive damage and a SAPPING debuff, where your health is depleted by 4/500 every couple seconds. -also inflicts MALICE buff on himself (invulnerable for 12 seconds; will counter with flare if attacked in this time) -use this time to heal up.

he'll go back to his previous attacks from phase 3, but he'll also start spawning phase 2's DEATHLY PALLS. the voidal puddles will start increasing in amount.

PHASE 5 - ZEROMUS

this at 10%, it turns into a race against time. if you have any limit breaks, healers or dps will need to use them depending on how dire the need. burn him as hot as you can. if you don't deal enough damage, he's going to cast ULTIMA, which is an instant wipe.

once he's dead, a cutscene will play. the darkness will overwhelm WoL, upon which point they'll wake up in the tower of bab-il again, on the floor of the throne room where you fought cagnazzo. there's no indication that a battle was fought here. you and your party take a walk around the hall, but there's nothing. completely empty. no corpses, no chests, no nothing.

you leave the tower to report.

when you go back to the quest giver, they'll express surprise that you dealt with ARCH so quickly, and make sure to inform you of any developments in the future. for now, their spies don't see anything out of the ordinary from the tower.

a later quest will show you that no one found any remnants of ARCH. nothing about their motives, their plans, their conscripts... there's nothing to suggest that the archfiends themselves were primals, or monsters, or anything like that. it's just a dearth of information, which is very strange, and remarked upon by the quest giver. having said that, the resistance in garlemald is also getting turncoat garleans on their side now, as there's no danger of being discovered by ARCH and reeducated or killed. once again, you're thanked for your service.

[wikitopx]

On the banks of the Charente, as it meanders towards the Atlantic, the city of Saintes was once the Roman capital of Aquitaine.

Ancient Mediolanum Santonum’s ruins, like the amphitheater, arches, baths and countless fragments of sculpture and stonework, are all weathered but soul-stirring. Move forward in time and Saintes swayed through the historic province of Saintonge and was equipped with Romanesque Abbaye aux Dames and the Saint-Europe Pilgrimage Church. These monuments are made even more solemn and atmospheric by the Medieval and Renaissance music lines at the Festival de Saintes every July. There is also the easy fun of Charente and its riverside parks, or the delicious taste of Cognac distilled nearby. Discover the best things to do in Saintes.

[toc]

1. Amphitheatre Gallo-Romain

The finest of what’s left of ancient Mediolanum Santonum, Saintes’ Roman amphitheater dates to the Rule of Emperor Claudius in 40AD. In its time it could have seated up to 15,000 spectators, who would have crammed in to watch gladiator fights and battles with wild beasts.

The lowest sitting floor is still intact, like some arches, and you can easily create the texture of stone terraces and working paths on the surrounding hillsides.

2. Abbaye aux Dames

Founded by Earl Anjou in the 11th century and with many traces of its original architecture, Abbey aux Dames is a Benedictine Monastery for women from noble families. Eleanor of Aquitaine donated to the monastery, while Agnes of Burgundy retired here after Earl Anjou's death.

The abbey church is the oldest part, with Roman architecture in the 11th and 12th centuries, with an iconic pine cone bell tower.

3. Arch of Germanicus

Older than the amphitheater, this splendid archway is from the reign of Tiberius, around the Year 18.

Though superficially, it was actually a triumphal arch built to commemorate a battle, but instead was sponsored by a wealthy local citizen in honor of Emperor Tiberius, whose son was Drusus and his grandson and his adopted son Germanicus. This information has been deduced from the very faint inscriptions in the stone.

4. Saintes Cathedral

You can learn a lot about Saintes just by thinking about its church for a while. What will strike you immediately is the squatting appearance of its bell tower. This was covered with a bronze dome instead of a tower because the original was damaged during the French Religious War in the 16th century.

In the wake of the conflict there weren’t enough funds to restore the spire, so ever since the tower has stood at 58 meters instead of 96.

5. Musée Archéologique

When Saintes began excavating Roman sites in the 19th century, it unearthed incredible rock storage. These were eventually transferred into the city's old butchery city, on the right bank of Charente, a few steps from the Arch of Germanicus.

By order of the curator of the Saintes museum, the newly redesigned site looks like a Roman house with arches and arches. In the sculptures of all descriptions; funeral, decoration, and religion, along with reliefs, column fragments, and mosaic extract.

But the pinnacle was the headless statue sculpted from Carrara marble and believed to depict Drusus Caesar, the son of Germanicus.

6. Basilique Saint-Eutrope

An important stop on the St James pilgrimage road, this 11th-century church consists of a lower and upper church.

The lower church is the one that needs to be on your agenda: It’s a Romanesque wonder that houses the cenotaph of Saint Eutrope, at the center of a choir with the most expertly carved capitals.

This is located below the main church above so the church's normal activities can continue above while pilgrims can enter and pray at the tomb of Saint Eutrope, before continuing. Taking a minute to adjust your lighting and subterranean space will reveal its secrets.

7. Jardin Public

Down from the Arch of Germanicus on the right bank of Charente, Jardin Public is three hectares of land and gardens, woven with a network of roads. For children, there’s a playground and a little menagerie with goats and ducks.

And perhaps the nicest spot for a wander in the alley next to the Charente where you can see the river traffic, boats moored on the wooden pontoons and can look across to the cathedral. There is also a lovely old orange in the park that has been converted into a de-salted salon.

8. Logis du Gouverneur Belvedere

This land is located on a road above the old town currently being renovated, but it is still worth looking forward to looking around. First, you have the Logis de Godarneur, a handsome 17th-century castle, the last relic of the 17th-century citadel of Saintes.

But maybe even better is the scenery that you can walk through the city from the cliff path. What will show you about the landscape is the sea of terracotta roof tiles, reminding you that you are going to the south of France in Saintes.

9. Charente Cruises

In the 16th century, King Francis I declared Charente the most beautiful river in the kingdom, and in Saintes, there were many opportunities to find out if he was right.

For those who want to sit back and watch the blue shores washed down by ships like Bernard Palissy II and La Gabare, have moored at the jetty in Saintes and provided yachts on this wide and winding river throughout. day.

There is a commentary on the stone villages and the countryside that you will come across, and information packages are provided for non-French speaking people. You could also hire a boat of your own for a couple of days and most of the local companies have a craft that doesn’t require a boat license.

10. Haras National

Enveloped in ten hectares of cedar and airplane park in the east of the city are the stately neoclassical buildings of Saintes Saint National Stud (Haras). The organization was founded by Louis XIV and a branch that has been based in Saintes since the mid-19th century.

Its job is to select, preserve and improve the breed, from horse racing to donkey Poitou, which is famous for its shaggy fur.

There is a museum in the hall, with a horse-drawn carriage and knowledge of the traditional occupations of the caravan (hooves specialist), the groom, and the saddle maker.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Saint Nazaire

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-saintes-709790.html

[nazaninlankarani]

Boucheron’s Historic Boutique Reopens at  26 Place Vendôme

The exterior of 26 Vendôme. Courtesy of Boucheron.

Boucheron is making a resounding return to the heart of Paris this month with the reopening of its historic boutique located at 26 Place Vendôme.

Giving Boucheron an optimal perch to begin a new chapter in its 160-year history, the sophisticated venue is a hôtel particulier known as the Hôtel de Nocé that has emerged from 18 months of renovation courtesy of Kering, the luxury group that acquired the jeweler in 2000.

For Kering—whose luxury brands includes Saint Laurent and Gucci—the goal was to reposition Boucheron in the high-jewelry sector, where the maison has “absolute legitimacy,” according to the company’s chairman François-Henri Pinault.

Courtesy of Boucheron.

A transcendental experience is at the heart of the connection that luxury houses today are seeking to establish with their clients, and one that Boucheron is well positioned to provide here now that the veil of secrecy has lifted over the site’s construction. Clients, friends, and visitors can now savor a splendid environment as they step inside the Hôtel de Nocé, built in 1717 and named after its first owner, Charles de Nocé, the premier gentilhomme to Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, who served as Regent of France until the young king Louis XV had come of age.

“It was fundamental to revive the original spirit of the Hôtel de Nocé through a renovation that respected its history and heritage,” said Boucheron chief executive Hélène Poulit-Duquesne. “All our history, all our savoir-faire, and all our values are united here.”

To set the stage for the future, Boucheron has mined its past to give new life to what has been home to the family-owned jeweler since 1893. Seamlessly marrying different styles and epochs across 30,000 square feet, the site respects its classic French heritage while bringing modernity to the fore.

Giving New Life to the Hôtel de Nocé

Except for its historically protected classical façade, 26 Place Vendôme has now been completely transformed to restore its palatial grandeur.

Originally a private home, the building was converted into a rental apartment building in 1814, resulting in the addition of several mezzanine levels to its interior architecture to sacrifice its soaring ceiling heights in the interest of gaining square footage.

Courtesy of Boucheron.

In 1893, when Frédéric Boucheron, founder of the maison, set up shop here, he was the first jeweler to venture onto the Place Vendôme. Until then, jewelers preferred the Opera district or the intimate salons of the Rue de la Paix to the open space of the large square built in 1685 by order of the French king, Louis XIV, as part of an urbanization plan to create wide spaces to contrast with the narrow, winding streets of old Paris.

Home to the Boucheron family home and the epicenter of the house’s savoir-faire, the building was acquired by Kering in 2010. The site was designated a French historic monument in 1930, so its renovation could only be performed under the supervision of a state-approved architect.

Enter Michel Goutal, chief architect of France’s historic monuments, who was tasked with the delicate and prestigious project. Working with a team of skilled artisans specializing in bronze, wrought iron, gypsum, and marble, Goutal sought “to rediscover the internal logic of a building modified by history, and return to a highly structured concept enabling the rooms to retain their character,” Boucheron told artnet News.

26 Vendôme jardin d’hiver. Courtesy of Boucheront.

Nearly all the mezzanine levels were removed, revealing a glass-roofed winter garden that opens the site up to new light and air. The quest for cool, northern daylight—the same light that illuminates the Impressionists’ paintings of the same period—was the main reason Frédéric Boucheron moved here 125 years ago. That light now floods the interiors, bathing the reception salons and a majestic staircase that winds up, like a spine, through the structure.

The main entrance on the Place Vendôme, dating from the 1970s, today welcomes the visitor to the main salons via a stunning, marble-mosaic floor under double-height ceilings. A second entrance has been opened on the Rue de la Paix, leading to the staircase that serves to connect the different métiers and workshops that Boucheron has now assembled under the same roof, namely conception, crafting, showroom, and sales.

“All our métiers have their place here, from design through manufacture to retail,” Poulit-Duquesne said. “In this family home, visitors will discover a new jewelry experience, since they will be welcomed as friends more than as clients.”

The Spirit of La Castiglione

The intimate ambiance of the red lacquer walls of the Salon Chinois remains intact, including a secret passage through which a mistress selecting jewels with a patron could be whisked away discreetly if his spouse were to enter the boutique unexpectedly.

Italian Virgiana Oldoini (1837-1899), countess of Castiglione. Photo by Pierre Louis Pierson. (Photo by Apic/Getty Images)

One such famous mistress was the intriguing Virginia Oldoini, Countess of Castiglione, a paramour of Emperor Napoleon III who was reputed to be the most beautiful woman of Europe, and who lived here in a mezzanine apartment in a self-imposed exile. The apartment was laden with heavy black drapes, reportedly kept drawn all hours, Oldoini would only venture outside under the cover of night to hide the fading beauty of her later years.

The spirit of La Castiglione can now roam freely in the cream-and-gold-colored Salon des Fiancés, the new Bridal shop over which a “draping” glass chandelier is suspended in homage to Frédéric Boucheron’s father, a drapier by trade whose influence is evoked by the grosgrain motif in Boucheron’s collections.

26 Vendôme Salon de créations. Courtesy of Boucheron.

The blue Salon des Créations will now allow Claire Choisne, Boucheron’s creative director, to work directly with clients using archive drawings, some of which hand on the walls. An interactive screen in an adjacent hallway features vintage photographs of some of Boucheron’s notable clients, including the divine Castiglione.

A Bespoke Interior Decor

The interior decoration and attention to detail that gives this site both its authenticity and its welcoming feel are the work of the French interior designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon.

“Rochon’s challenge was to give this historic address the character of a modern family home,” Poulit-Dusquene said. “The décor of each room is a carefully curated blend of contemporary design, works of art and vintage finds, as if each generation had left its own imprint on the house.”

Vendôme salon, appartement. Courtesy of Boucheron.

Many of the decorative pieces, namely the spectacular light fixtures, were custom-designed by Rochon, including the rock-crystal chandelier that hangs in the grand salon surrounded by 1930s furniture and 19th-century walnut paneling.

Rochon’s eclectic décor contributes to the singularly unique feel of a contemporary interior where some of the best craftsmen working today have left their signature, creating an experience that breaks with retail convention and makes the client feel both privileged and right at home.

26 Vendôme Salon des lumières. Courtesy of Boucheron.

The top floor has been transformed into a luxurious apartment equipped for overnight guests, with sweeping views of the Place Vendôme, and attended by a dedicated butler from the Hôtel Ritz, for a truly immersive experience.

[Source]

[fadingfartconnoisseur]

7 Castles You MUST See in France

Did you really click on that clickbaity title? Come on! Really? I guess these cheesy headlines do work! Maybe I should title all my posts like Buzzfeed?

Ha ha, no, I’m just kidding. I would never do that. That’s just terrible. I just wanted to see what happened if I did it. 🙂

But, seriously, let’s talk châteaux (large country houses or castles, plural of château). In June, I went to France for my birthday to explore the famed Loire Valley, with its rolling hills, exquisite wineries, wide rivers, and grandiose castles.

This region of fertile land was the seat of royal power during early French history. Kings, queens, and other royalty built grand palaces here as they cemented their rule of this vital trade region. But by the middle of the 16th century, power shifted to Paris, as kings spent less time wandering the kingdom and more time there (and who wouldn’t want to spend more time in Paris?).

However, French royalty still expended considerable money building beautiful châteaux. The Loire Valley has over 80, and it would take a lot more of my limited time to see them all. But I did manage to visit a bunch — and find out ways to do so on budget! Here are the highlights:

Chambord

This castle is one of the most popular in the region, thanks to its grandeur, detailed façade, intricate decorations, and large gardens. It was original built by Francis I in 1519 as a hunting retreat. However, he died that same year, and the castle remained half built. It fell into disrepair for nearly 80 years until Louis XIV visited in 1639. He ordered it finished based on the original plans. (Note: This is a running theme for a lot of châteaux in the region.)

Entering the castle grounds and seeing this massive ornate structure elicited an audible “wow” from my mouth. I marveled at the building’s intricate masonry and beautiful spires. The interior’s massive double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci creates a focal point that draws your attention as you move through the house. I loved the symmetry of the large halls and old paintings of royalty.

This place was gigantic and took hours to see. There are incredible views from the roof, but my favorite moments were mostly in the gardens, just staring at every inch of this palace. Truly fit for a king — or at least a zillion daily tourists!

Tip: I highly recommend the audio tour. It’s given on an iPad that allows you to zoom in on paintings and artifacts, provides an overlay of what the room would have looked in the 17th and 18th centuries (even including images of what it looked like being built), and gives tons of detailed information. Worth every euro!

How to get there – You can take a 25 minute shuttle or taxi from the nearby city of Bloise.

Villandry

Built into the side of a hill, this château was originally a keep (fortified tower) constructed in the 14th century for King Philip Augustus. When the place was acquired by a local nobleman in the early 16th century, the original keep was preserved, the rest of the structure was razed, and a fortress was erected (with a cool moat!). During the French Revolution, the property was confiscated by the state, and in the early 19th century, Emperor Napoleon gave it to his brother, Jérôme Bonaparte. In 1906, the Carvallo family (the current owners) purchased the property and poured an enormous amount of time and money into it to make it what it is today.

However, despite the grand exterior of the castle, I found the interior lacking, and I moved through it pretty quickly. Other than the ornately decorated first rooms, the interior is very bland (and kind of worth skipping all together).

The main draw of this château is its famous Renaissance gardens, which include a water garden, ornamental flower gardens, and vegetable gardens, altogether containing over 60,000 vegetables and 45,000 bedding plants! These are laid out in formal, geometric patterns separated with low box hedges. It’s a beautiful place to wander and relax, with a stream running through it and many spots to sit and contemplate. There’s also an adjacent woods with a few trails that not many people wander around, so you have them all to yourself! Overall, the gardens and woods are the best part of this castle, and that’s where your time should be spent!

How to get there – There’s a bus from Tours on Wednesday and Saturday. If you go any other day of the week, you’ll need a car.

Blois

Since you have to stop in Blois to see Chambord, the town castle makes an easy addition. Originally a medieval fortress built in the 9th century, it was taken over by Louis XII in 1498 and transformed into a palace in the Gothic style that was a center of power for centuries. (Fun fact: In 1429, Joan of Arc was blessed here before going to fight the British in Orléans.)

There’s not much left of the medieval fortress. The main part of the castle was built in 1515 by François I in Renaissance style and includes a famous buttressed circular staircase leading to the private sleeping rooms and ballrooms.

While this castle is small and the exterior less ornate than others in the region, I found the interior to be second to none, with intricately restored rooms, detailed information plaques, and stunning period furniture. Outside, you get sweeping views of the town and river. It was a really lovely castle.

How to get there – From Paris, you can take a two-hour train. From Tours, it’s about 45 minutes.

Amboise

This was my overall favorite castle. It may not be as ornate or large as the others, but it’s the total package: a fairy-tale-like structure with stunning interiors, beautiful gardens, and great views of the Loire River. Confiscated by the monarchy in the 15th century, it became a favored royal residence and was extensively rebuilt by King Charles XIII (who died here in 1498 after hitting his head on a door (seriously)). It was built into a lavish Renaissance palace by his successors but eventually fell into decline in the second half of the 16th century. It was greatly damaged in the French Revolution before being renovated in the 19th century.

That is what I really loved about the palace: the mix of architectural styles. You had the Gothic portion with its vaulted roofs, the Renaissance sleeping chambers and exteriors, and the grandly designed rooms from the 19th century. You can see the mark of history throughout the palace. I also loved the large, winding carriage ramp that descended from the castle into the town and the terraced gardens filled with oak trees. There’s also the church that contains the remains of Leonardo da Vinci! Really, this place is top-notch!

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 10 minute walk from the station.

Clos Luce

Built by Hugues d’Amboise in the middle of the 15th century, this château was acquired in 1490 by Charles VIII. There aren’t many rooms to explore, but they do retain that Renaissance charm. What makes it famous was that Leonardo da Vinci lived here from 1516 to 1519. Today, the castle is a testament to him, with marvelously restored rooms and a basement filled with replicas of his famous inventions. Additionally, be sure to go outside and look up, as the exterior has tons of Italian influences. The grounds are stunning and contain a restaurant, mill, and several ponds. The extensive gardens, complete with geese, streams, and many walking trails and places to escape and reflect, were an amazing addition, and it’s easy to imagine Leonardo walking around, looking for inspiration.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 30 minute walk from the station.

Azay le Rideau

Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was burned to the ground in 1418 by Charles VII. It remained in ruins until 1518 when it was rebuilt by a local noble. However, the French king Francis I confiscated the unfinished château in 1535 and gave it to one of his knights as a reward for his service, who then left it half built. The castle’s condition deteriorated through the centuries until, in the 1820s, the new owner undertook extensive alteration work to make it the beauty it is today.

A lot of the place was (still) under construction when I was there, so not all the rooms were open. The interior was simple and well explained by signs but lacked any ornate furniture, paintings, or fixtures. This place had my favorite exterior, though. I loved the square configuration, with its turrets overlooking the garden; the fact that it’s built on a pond; and the long cobblestone driveway leading in from town. It’s easy to imagine royalty trotting down in their carriages to the wrought-iron gates on their way to attend a ball.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 20 minute walk from the station.

Chenonceau

Chenonceau is one of the best-known châteaux in the Loire Valley. It was built in 1514 on the foundations of an old mill. In 1535, it was seized by King Francis I for unpaid debts. Then in 1547, Henry II gave it as a gift to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers (now one of the most famous women in French history). Diane oversaw the planting of extensive flower and vegetable gardens. In fact, the gardens are still laid out in her original design.

After Henry died, his widow Catherine de’ Medici (also one of the most famous women in French history) forced Diane out of the castle and made Chenonceau her residence. (Fun fact: In 1560, the first-ever fireworks display seen in France took place here.) In 1577, she extended the grand gallery across the entire river, making the château what it is today. After she died, the castle bounced around various royalty and their mistresses, was luckily spared destruction in the Revolution, and then was renovated and sold a bunch more times before it became a state property.

Walking through a forest that opens up on two gardens (still maintained in their old style), you see this beautiful, thin castle that spans a river. The interior is quite small (it’s longer than it is wide), and while the rooms are well preserved, they are often very crowded since they are so small. They’re beautiful, but it’s rather nice to go into the gallery and stare out across the river. The gardens were cool to see in bloom, and there’s even a little maze on the grounds (though it’s easy to get out). (Another fun fact: This castle divided Vichy and German-controlled France and was often used to smuggle Jews to safety.)

How to get there – The castle is a 35 minute train ride from Tours.

Tips for visiting the châteaux

So how do you visit all these beautiful castles (and the 70+ not listed here)? They are pretty easy to visit — all but a handful are accessible by bus or train, and those that aren’t are usually only about a 20-30-minute bike ride from the nearest town. But admission fees of 10 euros a pop can really add up and make castle-hopping a really un-budget activity. However, there are a few ways to save money on the castle experience:

The tourism office in Tours sells discounted tickets, so it’s best to buy many of your tickets there. They are 1 to 2 euros off the price at the castles.

Most of the castles are near train stations (the farthest I walked was 20 minutes to the Azay castle), so there is no need to take one of the expensive tours that whisk you to a bunch of châteaux in a short period of time. Plan your visit around the trains and buses.

For castles not near the train station, you can rent bikes near the tourism offices. A bike is 15 euros for the day.

If you want to drive, this region is best explored by car so you can see everything. Car rentals cost about 30-40 euros per day.

Most of the castles sell food that’s overpriced, even by French standards. However, you can bring your own food and water, so take a little picnic to eat on the grounds and save yourself a ton of money!

My only regret is that I didn’t have more time to see even more castles. It can be crazy spending 20-30 euros a day just on castles, but I found each one beautiful, unique, and filled with history that gave me a greater understanding of the region. Even if you’re not as castle-hungry as I am, be sure to visit some of these majestic places. Even the popular ones are worth the crowds.

You can visit many on a day trip from Paris, but I suggest roaming the region for at least a few days, taking in the castles, drinking an obscene amount of wine at an outdoor café, and soaking up some of the history, charm, and culture that makes France the special place that is.

The post 7 Castles You MUST See in France appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

via Travel Blogs http://ift.tt/2vwBvBs

[touristguidebuzz]

7 Castles You MUST See in France

Did you really click on that clickbaity title? Come on! Really? I guess these cheesy headlines do work! Maybe I should title all my posts like Buzzfeed?

Ha ha, no, I’m just kidding. I would never do that. That’s just terrible. I just wanted to see what happened if I did it. 🙂

But, seriously, let’s talk châteaux (large country houses or castles, plural of château). In June, I went to France for my birthday to explore the famed Loire Valley, with its rolling hills, exquisite wineries, wide rivers, and grandiose castles.

This region of fertile land was the seat of royal power during early French history. Kings, queens, and other royalty built grand palaces here as they cemented their rule of this vital trade region. But by the middle of the 16th century, power shifted to Paris, as kings spent less time wandering the kingdom and more time there (and who wouldn’t want to spend more time in Paris?).

However, French royalty still expended considerable money building beautiful châteaux. The Loire Valley has over 80, and it would take a lot more of my limited time to see them all. But I did manage to visit a bunch — and find out ways to do so on budget! Here are the highlights:

Chambord

This castle is one of the most popular in the region, thanks to its grandeur, detailed façade, intricate decorations, and large gardens. It was original built by Francis I in 1519 as a hunting retreat. However, he died that same year, and the castle remained half built. It fell into disrepair for nearly 80 years until Louis XIV visited in 1639. He ordered it finished based on the original plans. (Note: This is a running theme for a lot of châteaux in the region.)

Entering the castle grounds and seeing this massive ornate structure elicited an audible “wow” from my mouth. I marveled at the building’s intricate masonry and beautiful spires. The interior’s massive double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci creates a focal point that draws your attention as you move through the house. I loved the symmetry of the large halls and old paintings of royalty.

This place was gigantic and took hours to see. There are incredible views from the roof, but my favorite moments were mostly in the gardens, just staring at every inch of this palace. Truly fit for a king — or at least a zillion daily tourists!

Tip: I highly recommend the audio tour. It’s given on an iPad that allows you to zoom in on paintings and artifacts, provides an overlay of what the room would have looked in the 17th and 18th centuries (even including images of what it looked like being built), and gives tons of detailed information. Worth every euro!

How to get there – You can take a 25 minute shuttle or taxi from the nearby city of Bloise.

Villandry

Built into the side of a hill, this château was originally a keep (fortified tower) constructed in the 14th century for King Philip Augustus. When the place was acquired by a local nobleman in the early 16th century, the original keep was preserved, the rest of the structure was razed, and a fortress was erected (with a cool moat!). During the French Revolution, the property was confiscated by the state, and in the early 19th century, Emperor Napoleon gave it to his brother, Jérôme Bonaparte. In 1906, the Carvallo family (the current owners) purchased the property and poured an enormous amount of time and money into it to make it what it is today.

However, despite the grand exterior of the castle, I found the interior lacking, and I moved through it pretty quickly. Other than the ornately decorated first rooms, the interior is very bland (and kind of worth skipping all together).

The main draw of this château is its famous Renaissance gardens, which include a water garden, ornamental flower gardens, and vegetable gardens, altogether containing over 60,000 vegetables and 45,000 bedding plants! These are laid out in formal, geometric patterns separated with low box hedges. It’s a beautiful place to wander and relax, with a stream running through it and many spots to sit and contemplate. There’s also an adjacent woods with a few trails that not many people wander around, so you have them all to yourself! Overall, the gardens and woods are the best part of this castle, and that’s where your time should be spent!

How to get there – There’s a bus from Tours on Wednesday and Saturday. If you go any other day of the week, you’ll need a car.

Blois

Since you have to stop in Blois to see Chambord, the town castle makes an easy addition. Originally a medieval fortress built in the 9th century, it was taken over by Louis XII in 1498 and transformed into a palace in the Gothic style that was a center of power for centuries. (Fun fact: In 1429, Joan of Arc was blessed here before going to fight the British in Orléans.)

There’s not much left of the medieval fortress. The main part of the castle was built in 1515 by François I in Renaissance style and includes a famous buttressed circular staircase leading to the private sleeping rooms and ballrooms.

While this castle is small and the exterior less ornate than others in the region, I found the interior to be second to none, with intricately restored rooms, detailed information plaques, and stunning period furniture. Outside, you get sweeping views of the town and river. It was a really lovely castle.

How to get there – From Paris, you can take a two-hour train. From Tours, it’s about 45 minutes.

Amboise

This was my overall favorite castle. It may not be as ornate or large as the others, but it’s the total package: a fairy-tale-like structure with stunning interiors, beautiful gardens, and great views of the Loire River. Confiscated by the monarchy in the 15th century, it became a favored royal residence and was extensively rebuilt by King Charles XIII (who died here in 1498 after hitting his head on a door (seriously)). It was built into a lavish Renaissance palace by his successors but eventually fell into decline in the second half of the 16th century. It was greatly damaged in the French Revolution before being renovated in the 19th century.

That is what I really loved about the palace: the mix of architectural styles. You had the Gothic portion with its vaulted roofs, the Renaissance sleeping chambers and exteriors, and the grandly designed rooms from the 19th century. You can see the mark of history throughout the palace. I also loved the large, winding carriage ramp that descended from the castle into the town and the terraced gardens filled with oak trees. There’s also the church that contains the remains of Leonardo da Vinci! Really, this place is top-notch!

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 10 minute walk from the station.

Clos Luce

Built by Hugues d’Amboise in the middle of the 15th century, this château was acquired in 1490 by Charles VIII. There aren’t many rooms to explore, but they do retain that Renaissance charm. What makes it famous was that Leonardo da Vinci lived here from 1516 to 1519. Today, the castle is a testament to him, with marvelously restored rooms and a basement filled with replicas of his famous inventions. Additionally, be sure to go outside and look up, as the exterior has tons of Italian influences. The grounds are stunning and contain a restaurant, mill, and several ponds. The extensive gardens, complete with geese, streams, and many walking trails and places to escape and reflect, were an amazing addition, and it’s easy to imagine Leonardo walking around, looking for inspiration.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 30 minute walk from the station.

Azay le Rideau

Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was burned to the ground in 1418 by Charles VII. It remained in ruins until 1518 when it was rebuilt by a local noble. However, the French king Francis I confiscated the unfinished château in 1535 and gave it to one of his knights as a reward for his service, who then left it half built. The castle’s condition deteriorated through the centuries until, in the 1820s, the new owner undertook extensive alteration work to make it the beauty it is today.

A lot of the place was (still) under construction when I was there, so not all the rooms were open. The interior was simple and well explained by signs but lacked any ornate furniture, paintings, or fixtures. This place had my favorite exterior, though. I loved the square configuration, with its turrets overlooking the garden; the fact that it’s built on a pond; and the long cobblestone driveway leading in from town. It’s easy to imagine royalty trotting down in their carriages to the wrought-iron gates on their way to attend a ball.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 20 minute walk from the station.

Chenonceau

Chenonceau is one of the best-known châteaux in the Loire Valley. It was built in 1514 on the foundations of an old mill. In 1535, it was seized by King Francis I for unpaid debts. Then in 1547, Henry II gave it as a gift to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers (now one of the most famous women in French history). Diane oversaw the planting of extensive flower and vegetable gardens. In fact, the gardens are still laid out in her original design.

After Henry died, his widow Catherine de’ Medici (also one of the most famous women in French history) forced Diane out of the castle and made Chenonceau her residence. (Fun fact: In 1560, the first-ever fireworks display seen in France took place here.) In 1577, she extended the grand gallery across the entire river, making the château what it is today. After she died, the castle bounced around various royalty and their mistresses, was luckily spared destruction in the Revolution, and then was renovated and sold a bunch more times before it became a state property.

Walking through a forest that opens up on two gardens (still maintained in their old style), you see this beautiful, thin castle that spans a river. The interior is quite small (it’s longer than it is wide), and while the rooms are well preserved, they are often very crowded since they are so small. They’re beautiful, but it’s rather nice to go into the gallery and stare out across the river. The gardens were cool to see in bloom, and there’s even a little maze on the grounds (though it’s easy to get out). (Another fun fact: This castle divided Vichy and German-controlled France and was often used to smuggle Jews to safety.)

How to get there – The castle is a 35 minute train ride from Tours.

Tips for visiting the châteaux

So how do you visit all these beautiful castles (and the 70+ not listed here)? They are pretty easy to visit — all but a handful are accessible by bus or train, and those that aren’t are usually only about a 20-30-minute bike ride from the nearest town. But admission fees of 10 euros a pop can really add up and make castle-hopping a really un-budget activity. However, there are a few ways to save money on the castle experience:

The tourism office in Tours sells discounted tickets, so it’s best to buy many of your tickets there. They are 1 to 2 euros off the price at the castles.

Most of the castles are near train stations (the farthest I walked was 20 minutes to the Azay castle), so there is no need to take one of the expensive tours that whisk you to a bunch of châteaux in a short period of time. Plan your visit around the trains and buses.

For castles not near the train station, you can rent bikes near the tourism offices. A bike is 15 euros for the day.

If you want to drive, this region is best explored by car so you can see everything. Car rentals cost about 30-40 euros per day.

Most of the castles sell food that’s overpriced, even by French standards. However, you can bring your own food and water, so take a little picnic to eat on the grounds and save yourself a ton of money!

My only regret is that I didn’t have more time to see even more castles. It can be crazy spending 20-30 euros a day just on castles, but I found each one beautiful, unique, and filled with history that gave me a greater understanding of the region. Even if you’re not as castle-hungry as I am, be sure to visit some of these majestic places. Even the popular ones are worth the crowds.

You can visit many on a day trip from Paris, but I suggest roaming the region for at least a few days, taking in the castles, drinking an obscene amount of wine at an outdoor café, and soaking up some of the history, charm, and culture that makes France the special place that is.

The post 7 Castles You MUST See in France appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

[theladyjstyle]

Did you really click on that clickbaity title? Come on! Really? I guess these cheesy headlines do work! Maybe I should title all my posts like Buzzfeed?

Ha ha, no, I’m just kidding. I would never do that. That’s just terrible. I just wanted to see what happened if I did it. 🙂

But, seriously, let’s talk châteaux (large country houses or castles, plural of château). In June, I went to France for my birthday to explore the famed Loire Valley, with its rolling hills, exquisite wineries, wide rivers, and grandiose castles.

This region of fertile land was the seat of royal power during early French history. Kings, queens, and other royalty built grand palaces here as they cemented their rule of this vital trade region. But by the middle of the 16th century, power shifted to Paris, as kings spent less time wandering the kingdom and more time there (and who wouldn’t want to spend more time in Paris?).

However, French royalty still expended considerable money building beautiful châteaux. The Loire Valley has over 80, and it would take a lot more of my limited time to see them all. But I did manage to visit a bunch — and find out ways to do so on budget! Here are the highlights:

Chambord

This castle is one of the most popular in the region, thanks to its grandeur, detailed façade, intricate decorations, and large gardens. It was original built by Francis I in 1519 as a hunting retreat. However, he died that same year, and the castle remained half built. It fell into disrepair for nearly 80 years until Louis XIV visited in 1639. He ordered it finished based on the original plans. (Note: This is a running theme for a lot of châteaux in the region.)

Entering the castle grounds and seeing this massive ornate structure elicited an audible “wow” from my mouth. I marveled at the building’s intricate masonry and beautiful spires. The interior’s massive double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci creates a focal point that draws your attention as you move through the house. I loved the symmetry of the large halls and old paintings of royalty.

This place was gigantic and took hours to see. There are incredible views from the roof, but my favorite moments were mostly in the gardens, just staring at every inch of this palace. Truly fit for a king — or at least a zillion daily tourists!

Tip: I highly recommend the audio tour. It’s given on an iPad that allows you to zoom in on paintings and artifacts, provides an overlay of what the room would have looked in the 17th and 18th centuries (even including images of what it looked like being built), and gives tons of detailed information. Worth every euro!

How to get there – You can take a 25 minute shuttle or taxi from the nearby city of Bloise.

Villandry

Built into the side of a hill, this château was originally a keep (fortified tower) constructed in the 14th century for King Philip Augustus. When the place was acquired by a local nobleman in the early 16th century, the original keep was preserved, the rest of the structure was razed, and a fortress was erected (with a cool moat!). During the French Revolution, the property was confiscated by the state, and in the early 19th century, Emperor Napoleon gave it to his brother, Jérôme Bonaparte. In 1906, the Carvallo family (the current owners) purchased the property and poured an enormous amount of time and money into it to make it what it is today.

However, despite the grand exterior of the castle, I found the interior lacking, and I moved through it pretty quickly. Other than the ornately decorated first rooms, the interior is very bland (and kind of worth skipping all together).

The main draw of this château is its famous Renaissance gardens, which include a water garden, ornamental flower gardens, and vegetable gardens, altogether containing over 60,000 vegetables and 45,000 bedding plants! These are laid out in formal, geometric patterns separated with low box hedges. It’s a beautiful place to wander and relax, with a stream running through it and many spots to sit and contemplate. There’s also an adjacent woods with a few trails that not many people wander around, so you have them all to yourself! Overall, the gardens and woods are the best part of this castle, and that’s where your time should be spent!

How to get there – There’s a bus from Tours on Wednesday and Saturday. If you go any other day of the week, you’ll need a car.

Blois

Since you have to stop in Blois to see Chambord, the town castle makes an easy addition. Originally a medieval fortress built in the 9th century, it was taken over by Louis XII in 1498 and transformed into a palace in the Gothic style that was a center of power for centuries. (Fun fact: In 1429, Joan of Arc was blessed here before going to fight the British in Orléans.)

There’s not much left of the medieval fortress. The main part of the castle was built in 1515 by François I in Renaissance style and includes a famous buttressed circular staircase leading to the private sleeping rooms and ballrooms.

While this castle is small and the exterior less ornate than others in the region, I found the interior to be second to none, with intricately restored rooms, detailed information plaques, and stunning period furniture. Outside, you get sweeping views of the town and river. It was a really lovely castle.

How to get there – From Paris, you can take a two-hour train. From Tours, it’s about 45 minutes.

Amboise

This was my overall favorite castle. It may not be as ornate or large as the others, but it’s the total package: a fairy-tale-like structure with stunning interiors, beautiful gardens, and great views of the Loire River. Confiscated by the monarchy in the 15th century, it became a favored royal residence and was extensively rebuilt by King Charles XIII (who died here in 1498 after hitting his head on a door (seriously)). It was built into a lavish Renaissance palace by his successors but eventually fell into decline in the second half of the 16th century. It was greatly damaged in the French Revolution before being renovated in the 19th century.

That is what I really loved about the palace: the mix of architectural styles. You had the Gothic portion with its vaulted roofs, the Renaissance sleeping chambers and exteriors, and the grandly designed rooms from the 19th century. You can see the mark of history throughout the palace. I also loved the large, winding carriage ramp that descended from the castle into the town and the terraced gardens filled with oak trees. There’s also the church that contains the remains of Leonardo da Vinci! Really, this place is top-notch!

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 10 minute walk from the station.

Clos Luce

Built by Hugues d’Amboise in the middle of the 15th century, this château was acquired in 1490 by Charles VIII. There aren’t many rooms to explore, but they do retain that Renaissance charm. What makes it famous was that Leonardo da Vinci lived here from 1516 to 1519. Today, the castle is a testament to him, with marvelously restored rooms and a basement filled with replicas of his famous inventions. Additionally, be sure to go outside and look up, as the exterior has tons of Italian influences. The grounds are stunning and contain a restaurant, mill, and several ponds. The extensive gardens, complete with geese, streams, and many walking trails and places to escape and reflect, were an amazing addition, and it’s easy to imagine Leonardo walking around, looking for inspiration.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 30 minute walk from the station.

Azay le Rideau

Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was burned to the ground in 1418 by Charles VII. It remained in ruins until 1518 when it was rebuilt by a local noble. However, the French king Francis I confiscated the unfinished château in 1535 and gave it to one of his knights as a reward for his service, who then left it half built. The castle’s condition deteriorated through the centuries until, in the 1820s, the new owner undertook extensive alteration work to make it the beauty it is today.

A lot of the place was (still) under construction when I was there, so not all the rooms were open. The interior was simple and well explained by signs but lacked any ornate furniture, paintings, or fixtures. This place had my favorite exterior, though. I loved the square configuration, with its turrets overlooking the garden; the fact that it’s built on a pond; and the long cobblestone driveway leading in from town. It’s easy to imagine royalty trotting down in their carriages to the wrought-iron gates on their way to attend a ball.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 20 minute walk from the station.

Chenonceau

Chenonceau is one of the best-known châteaux in the Loire Valley. It was built in 1514 on the foundations of an old mill. In 1535, it was seized by King Francis I for unpaid debts. Then in 1547, Henry II gave it as a gift to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers (now one of the most famous women in French history). Diane oversaw the planting of extensive flower and vegetable gardens. In fact, the gardens are still laid out in her original design.

After Henry died, his widow Catherine de’ Medici (also one of the most famous women in French history) forced Diane out of the castle and made Chenonceau her residence. (Fun fact: In 1560, the first-ever fireworks display seen in France took place here.) In 1577, she extended the grand gallery across the entire river, making the château what it is today. After she died, the castle bounced around various royalty and their mistresses, was luckily spared destruction in the Revolution, and then was renovated and sold a bunch more times before it became a state property.

Walking through a forest that opens up on two gardens (still maintained in their old style), you see this beautiful, thin castle that spans a river. The interior is quite small (it’s longer than it is wide), and while the rooms are well preserved, they are often very crowded since they are so small. They’re beautiful, but it’s rather nice to go into the gallery and stare out across the river. The gardens were cool to see in bloom, and there’s even a little maze on the grounds (though it’s easy to get out). (Another fun fact: This castle divided Vichy and German-controlled France and was often used to smuggle Jews to safety.)

How to get there – The castle is a 35 minute train ride from Tours.

Tips for visiting the châteaux

So how do you visit all these beautiful castles (and the 70+ not listed here)? They are pretty easy to visit — all but a handful are accessible by bus or train, and those that aren’t are usually only about a 20-30-minute bike ride from the nearest town. But admission fees of 10 euros a pop can really add up and make castle-hopping a really un-budget activity. However, there are a few ways to save money on the castle experience:

The tourism office in Tours sells discounted tickets, so it’s best to buy many of your tickets there. They are 1 to 2 euros off the price at the castles.

Most of the castles are near train stations (the farthest I walked was 20 minutes to the Azay castle), so there is no need to take one of the expensive tours that whisk you to a bunch of châteaux in a short period of time. Plan your visit around the trains and buses.

For castles not near the train station, you can rent bikes near the tourism offices. A bike is 15 euros for the day.

If you want to drive, this region is best explored by car so you can see everything. Car rentals cost about 30-40 euros per day.

Most of the castles sell food that’s overpriced, even by French standards. However, you can bring your own food and water, so take a little picnic to eat on the grounds and save yourself a ton of money!

My only regret is that I didn’t have more time to see even more castles. It can be crazy spending 20-30 euros a day just on castles, but I found each one beautiful, unique, and filled with history that gave me a greater understanding of the region. Even if you’re not as castle-hungry as I am, be sure to visit some of these majestic places. Even the popular ones are worth the crowds.

You can visit many on a day trip from Paris, but I suggest roaming the region for at least a few days, taking in the castles, drinking an obscene amount of wine at an outdoor café, and soaking up some of the history, charm, and culture that makes France the special place that is.

The post 7 Castles You MUST See in France appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

7 Castles You MUST See in France http://ift.tt/2vwBvBs

[tamboradventure]

7 Castles You MUST See in France

Did you really click on that clickbaity title? Come on! Really? I guess these cheesy headlines do work! Maybe I should title all my posts like Buzzfeed?

Ha ha, no, I’m just kidding. I would never do that. That’s just terrible. I just wanted to see what happened if I did it. 🙂

But, seriously, let’s talk châteaux (large country houses or castles, plural of château). In June, I went to France for my birthday to explore the famed Loire Valley, with its rolling hills, exquisite wineries, wide rivers, and grandiose castles.

This region of fertile land was the seat of royal power during early French history. Kings, queens, and other royalty built grand palaces here as they cemented their rule of this vital trade region. But by the middle of the 16th century, power shifted to Paris, as kings spent less time wandering the kingdom and more time there (and who wouldn’t want to spend more time in Paris?).

However, French royalty still expended considerable money building beautiful châteaux. The Loire Valley has over 80, and it would take a lot more of my limited time to see them all. But I did manage to visit a bunch — and find out ways to do so on budget! Here are the highlights:

Chambord

This castle is one of the most popular in the region, thanks to its grandeur, detailed façade, intricate decorations, and large gardens. It was original built by Francis I in 1519 as a hunting retreat. However, he died that same year, and the castle remained half built. It fell into disrepair for nearly 80 years until Louis XIV visited in 1639. He ordered it finished based on the original plans. (Note: This is a running theme for a lot of châteaux in the region.)

Entering the castle grounds and seeing this massive ornate structure elicited an audible “wow” from my mouth. I marveled at the building’s intricate masonry and beautiful spires. The interior’s massive double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci creates a focal point that draws your attention as you move through the house. I loved the symmetry of the large halls and old paintings of royalty.

This place was gigantic and took hours to see. There are incredible views from the roof, but my favorite moments were mostly in the gardens, just staring at every inch of this palace. Truly fit for a king — or at least a zillion daily tourists!

Tip: I highly recommend the audio tour. It’s given on an iPad that allows you to zoom in on paintings and artifacts, provides an overlay of what the room would have looked in the 17th and 18th centuries (even including images of what it looked like being built), and gives tons of detailed information. Worth every euro!

How to get there – You can take a 25 minute shuttle or taxi from the nearby city of Bloise.

Villandry

Built into the side of a hill, this château was originally a keep (fortified tower) constructed in the 14th century for King Philip Augustus. When the place was acquired by a local nobleman in the early 16th century, the original keep was preserved, the rest of the structure was razed, and a fortress was erected (with a cool moat!). During the French Revolution, the property was confiscated by the state, and in the early 19th century, Emperor Napoleon gave it to his brother, Jérôme Bonaparte. In 1906, the Carvallo family (the current owners) purchased the property and poured an enormous amount of time and money into it to make it what it is today.

However, despite the grand exterior of the castle, I found the interior lacking, and I moved through it pretty quickly. Other than the ornately decorated first rooms, the interior is very bland (and kind of worth skipping all together).

The main draw of this château is its famous Renaissance gardens, which include a water garden, ornamental flower gardens, and vegetable gardens, altogether containing over 60,000 vegetables and 45,000 bedding plants! These are laid out in formal, geometric patterns separated with low box hedges. It’s a beautiful place to wander and relax, with a stream running through it and many spots to sit and contemplate. There’s also an adjacent woods with a few trails that not many people wander around, so you have them all to yourself! Overall, the gardens and woods are the best part of this castle, and that’s where your time should be spent!

How to get there – There’s a bus from Tours on Wednesday and Saturday. If you go any other day of the week, you’ll need a car.

Blois

Since you have to stop in Blois to see Chambord, the town castle makes an easy addition. Originally a medieval fortress built in the 9th century, it was taken over by Louis XII in 1498 and transformed into a palace in the Gothic style that was a center of power for centuries. (Fun fact: In 1429, Joan of Arc was blessed here before going to fight the British in Orléans.)

There’s not much left of the medieval fortress. The main part of the castle was built in 1515 by François I in Renaissance style and includes a famous buttressed circular staircase leading to the private sleeping rooms and ballrooms.

While this castle is small and the exterior less ornate than others in the region, I found the interior to be second to none, with intricately restored rooms, detailed information plaques, and stunning period furniture. Outside, you get sweeping views of the town and river. It was a really lovely castle.

How to get there – From Paris, you can take a two-hour train. From Tours, it’s about 45 minutes.

Amboise

This was my overall favorite castle. It may not be as ornate or large as the others, but it’s the total package: a fairy-tale-like structure with stunning interiors, beautiful gardens, and great views of the Loire River. Confiscated by the monarchy in the 15th century, it became a favored royal residence and was extensively rebuilt by King Charles XIII (who died here in 1498 after hitting his head on a door (seriously)). It was built into a lavish Renaissance palace by his successors but eventually fell into decline in the second half of the 16th century. It was greatly damaged in the French Revolution before being renovated in the 19th century.

That is what I really loved about the palace: the mix of architectural styles. You had the Gothic portion with its vaulted roofs, the Renaissance sleeping chambers and exteriors, and the grandly designed rooms from the 19th century. You can see the mark of history throughout the palace. I also loved the large, winding carriage ramp that descended from the castle into the town and the terraced gardens filled with oak trees. There’s also the church that contains the remains of Leonardo da Vinci! Really, this place is top-notch!

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 10 minute walk from the station.

Clos Luce

Built by Hugues d’Amboise in the middle of the 15th century, this château was acquired in 1490 by Charles VIII. There aren’t many rooms to explore, but they do retain that Renaissance charm. What makes it famous was that Leonardo da Vinci lived here from 1516 to 1519. Today, the castle is a testament to him, with marvelously restored rooms and a basement filled with replicas of his famous inventions. Additionally, be sure to go outside and look up, as the exterior has tons of Italian influences. The grounds are stunning and contain a restaurant, mill, and several ponds. The extensive gardens, complete with geese, streams, and many walking trails and places to escape and reflect, were an amazing addition, and it’s easy to imagine Leonardo walking around, looking for inspiration.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 30 minute walk from the station.

Azay le Rideau

Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was burned to the ground in 1418 by Charles VII. It remained in ruins until 1518 when it was rebuilt by a local noble. However, the French king Francis I confiscated the unfinished château in 1535 and gave it to one of his knights as a reward for his service, who then left it half built. The castle’s condition deteriorated through the centuries until, in the 1820s, the new owner undertook extensive alteration work to make it the beauty it is today.

A lot of the place was (still) under construction when I was there, so not all the rooms were open. The interior was simple and well explained by signs but lacked any ornate furniture, paintings, or fixtures. This place had my favorite exterior, though. I loved the square configuration, with its turrets overlooking the garden; the fact that it’s built on a pond; and the long cobblestone driveway leading in from town. It’s easy to imagine royalty trotting down in their carriages to the wrought-iron gates on their way to attend a ball.

How to get there – You can take a thirty minute train ride from Tours. The castle is a 20 minute walk from the station.

Chenonceau

Chenonceau is one of the best-known châteaux in the Loire Valley. It was built in 1514 on the foundations of an old mill. In 1535, it was seized by King Francis I for unpaid debts. Then in 1547, Henry II gave it as a gift to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers (now one of the most famous women in French history). Diane oversaw the planting of extensive flower and vegetable gardens. In fact, the gardens are still laid out in her original design.

After Henry died, his widow Catherine de’ Medici (also one of the most famous women in French history) forced Diane out of the castle and made Chenonceau her residence. (Fun fact: In 1560, the first-ever fireworks display seen in France took place here.) In 1577, she extended the grand gallery across the entire river, making the château what it is today. After she died, the castle bounced around various royalty and their mistresses, was luckily spared destruction in the Revolution, and then was renovated and sold a bunch more times before it became a state property.

Walking through a forest that opens up on two gardens (still maintained in their old style), you see this beautiful, thin castle that spans a river. The interior is quite small (it’s longer than it is wide), and while the rooms are well preserved, they are often very crowded since they are so small. They’re beautiful, but it’s rather nice to go into the gallery and stare out across the river. The gardens were cool to see in bloom, and there’s even a little maze on the grounds (though it’s easy to get out). (Another fun fact: This castle divided Vichy and German-controlled France and was often used to smuggle Jews to safety.)

How to get there – The castle is a 35 minute train ride from Tours.

Tips for visiting the châteaux

So how do you visit all these beautiful castles (and the 70+ not listed here)? They are pretty easy to visit — all but a handful are accessible by bus or train, and those that aren’t are usually only about a 20-30-minute bike ride from the nearest town. But admission fees of 10 euros a pop can really add up and make castle-hopping a really un-budget activity. However, there are a few ways to save money on the castle experience:

The tourism office in Tours sells discounted tickets, so it’s best to buy many of your tickets there. They are 1 to 2 euros off the price at the castles.

Most of the castles are near train stations (the farthest I walked was 20 minutes to the Azay castle), so there is no need to take one of the expensive tours that whisk you to a bunch of châteaux in a short period of time. Plan your visit around the trains and buses.

For castles not near the train station, you can rent bikes near the tourism offices. A bike is 15 euros for the day.

If you want to drive, this region is best explored by car so you can see everything. Car rentals cost about 30-40 euros per day.

Most of the castles sell food that’s overpriced, even by French standards. However, you can bring your own food and water, so take a little picnic to eat on the grounds and save yourself a ton of money!

My only regret is that I didn’t have more time to see even more castles. It can be crazy spending 20-30 euros a day just on castles, but I found each one beautiful, unique, and filled with history that gave me a greater understanding of the region. Even if you’re not as castle-hungry as I am, be sure to visit some of these majestic places. Even the popular ones are worth the crowds.

You can visit many on a day trip from Paris, but I suggest roaming the region for at least a few days, taking in the castles, drinking an obscene amount of wine at an outdoor café, and soaking up some of the history, charm, and culture that makes France the special place that is.

The post 7 Castles You MUST See in France appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Travel Blog – Nomadic Matt's Travel Site http://ift.tt/2vwBvBs via IFTTT

[wikitopx]

Balancing on a limestone ridge above the River Doubs, Dole is a lovely old city in the north of the Jura Range.

The Holy Roman emperor and Count Burgundy remained in Dole, and it was under their control under the annexation of Louis XIV in 1678 by Louis XIV. Dole’s old center is a confusion of alleyways edged by Renaissance homes with turrets and courtyards. It’s great fun to explore and was also the birthplace of Louis Pasteur, raised in poverty in the tannery quarter by the Canal du Rhône au Rhin. France's second-largest forest, Forêt de Chaux is Dole's back garden and resonates with past occupations such as pottery, charcoal burning, and woodcutting. Discover the best things to do in Dole.

[toc]

1. Old Dole

The best thing about Dole is the town’s disorganized jumble of stairways, fountains, passages and tight, winding streets. The tall stone houses pressing in from the sides date back as far as the 16th century, and around 20 are official French historical monuments.

Keep your eyes bright, because often you can peek through an arch into an inner garden, or find a secret curiosity like Fontaine aux Lepreux on Rue Pasteur.

This canal-front street, where Louis Pasteur is born, maybe the prettiest in the city, with a cute footbridge over the water, covered passageways and a riverfront path decorated with flowers.

2. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dole

The Dole Fine Art Museum assembles archaeological finds from within and near the city, combining painting and sculpture from France, Italy and low nations. The archaeology galleries are in the basement where you can ponder Roman sarcophagi, Merovingian stone carvings and far older artifacts going back to the Palaeolithic Period.

Further is a collection of historical art, which gives you an idea of the kind of wealth booming around Dole in the early modern period. There are works by Baroque painters like Francesco Albani, Simon Vouet, Pieter van Boucle, Master of Saint-Gilles and Valerio Castello.

On the top floor, there is the contemporary art of Muslims, mainly from the Nouveau Réalisme movement founded in the early 1960s.

3. Maison de Louis Pasteur

The world-changing microbiologist was Louis Pasteur was born at this house by the canal in 1822. This is the tanning area, and his father's old leather tools were in the basement as if he was off work all day.

Over eight rooms, the displays inside try to flesh out Pasteur’s background and approach his work via art and symbolism. You’ll get to know the advances he made in immunology, fermentation, and crystallography.

There’s also a small cache of items belonging to Pasteur, including letters and instruments donated to the museum in the 20th century by his grandson.

4. Forêt de Chaux

If you need some spotless properties, Dole will open up the second largest forest in France. This unfurls over 25,000 hectares and has existed in harmony with Dole and the other towns and villages.

The forest fuelled all sorts of trades in the city, including ironwork, glassmaking, and ceramics.

If you’re planning a hike in the forest it’s relatively easy to get around as in 1826 eight Doric columns, each five meters high were installed on the main trails to help woodcutters find their way around.

5. Hôtel-Dieu

If you're in Dole in the summer, call the tourist office to arrange a tour of the 17th-century Hôtel-Dieu hotel. This old hospital was built in a Renaissance style and was the last big building to be completed in Dole before the city was annexed to France.

It was a hospital up 1992 and now houses the city’s archives and library. But there are thrilling traces from the early years of the hospital in the kitchen, bakery, and fermentation room.

Best of all is the apothecary, in vaulted rooms with wooden cabinets and marble fireplaces. There are more than 150 Dole-style earthenware pots for all manner of weird medicines.

6. Collégiale Notre-Dame

The bell-tower of this church climbing above the Doubs is one of the classic images of Dole. It was built during the 1500s after Louis XI destroyed Dole in an attempt to conquer Franche-Comté.

In this century, fiery gothic architecture gave way to the Renaissance, so the church has a mix of two styles. No expenses were spent on the rich furniture, and the region's top artists and craftsmen were hired to work on it.

See a series of paintings in the nave of Laurent Pécheux, Madonna and the Colorful Child of Jean de la Huerta and the marble and iron podium from 1765.

7. Les Baraques du 14

On a walk-in Forêt de Chaux, you can book a course for this village hidden in the woods for hundreds of years. The forest supports a vibrant wood and coal industry that offers various deals in Dole.

And you can see how the jungle lived in a small village of four houses, two bakeries and a beekeeper, dating back to the 16th century. The hamlet is open every afternoon except Monday.

When you get to Dole check in with the tourist office to see if there’s anything going on at the hamlet because in the summertime there’s a calendar of demonstrations, talks, workshops and musical evenings.

8. Grotte d’Osselle

Unusual for a cave network, the SummerSlele Grotte was discovered long ago in the 1200s and people have come to look around since the 1500s. This puts it among the oldest show-caves in the world.

About 50,000 years ago, prehistoric cave bears used these chambers and tunnels, leaving about 3,000 skeletons. These have gone to a host of museums, but there’s a set on show in cases at the caves.

The system has a “wet” section where water has trickled through and formed tortuous and colorful concretions. But there was also a dry room, where people like Voltaire would attend feasts in the 18th century and where missionaries sought refuge in the French Revolution.

9. Les Halles de Dole

Just opposite the Collegiate Church at the top of the city is the marketplace where people have been trading since the 1200s. The covered market was rebuilt several times until 1883 when its current Baltard-style iron and glass hall was completed.

There are four markets a week inside, on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings, and even Friday evenings from 17:00. The morning markets are accompanied by outdoor stalls on Place Nationale selling homewares, clothing, handicrafts, and flowers.

Inside, you can sample fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, charcuterie, freshwater fish and local pastries for Dole.

10. Saline Royale – Arc-et-Senans

On the other side of the Chaux forest is a wonderful remnant from the last years before the French Revolution.

Dating to the 1770s, the Royal Saltworks is a symbol of an onerous tax on salt, which forced people (including children ages eight and up) to buy a certain amount of salt a year at a fixed price.

The building and its complex are stunning, showing the influence of the Enlightenment in its rational geometry and arrangement of the different edifices on the site. On summer evenings the complex is illuminated with magical projections for the Lux Salina sound and light show.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Cremona

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-dole-708341.html