adelitaflores

[adelitaflores]

Thaddeus’s mention of JD warmed Adelita’s smile and heart. JD was one of Adelita’s two advisors, he was also her cousin and one of the very few people in this world that the witch trusted unconditionally. Their deep and familial bond often felt like the one true tie that Adelita had to a sense of morality and normalcy. She often wondered where she would go without her conscience - JD - by her side. If ever there was a moment of genuine warmth that anyone paying attention were looking for, it was when Thaddy mentioned Adelita’s number two. 

The Priestess was pleased to see how Thaddeus carried himself, handsome in his suit, charming in his chivalrous offer of his arm. She even chuckled at his sweet look of surprise to be recognised. It amused her to see he thought himself to be flying under the radar. Didn’t he know that people in power maintained that power by knowing who they had to know. Sure, Thaddeus might have shed his socialite past, but his connections to his family remained in the minds of some. Thaddeus came across so sweet... perhaps too sweet. 

“Yes, that would be lovely thank you!” Adelita responded warmly to her date, releasing his arm from her grip so he could slip away to grab them both drinks. She took the opportunity to speak with the town’s executive. Peter Harding was a handsome man, but known to be shorter than most. At five foot, three inches, the town’s executive was 6 inches shorter than the Priestess who also always opted to wear incredibly high heels. However, when the Priestess joined Harding, through a clever little spell on her shoes, she somehow became shorter than him.  

“He’s a fine man” Adelita said softly, somehow looking up at the shorter fae. “He completely left his life behind, likes to live like one of the people with his fae daughter...” As Adelita explained some details of Thaddeus’s life that he had never explicitly told her himself, she kept her dark eyes trained closely on the man she was speaking with, who in turn was actually watching Thaddeus with... particularly keen eyes. “Reminds me of you, really... And he is clearly a fan of yours” Adelita added smoothly, her face impassive but her eyes sparkled with a calculative nature. The two continued to talk in hushed tones, only ceasing when another guest joined them and Adelita could step back, quickly reassuming her impressive once she left Peter Harding’s side. 

Partners in faux romance

#poor thaddy #adelitaflores #witchcraft #manipulation #politics

[adelitaflores]

Of course Adelita understood, they were not mere mortals, they were witches and if they decided they wanted one drag of a cigarette to curse, maim or kill, they could. Not that Adelita would... or at least she would not in the circumstance. In this instance, she was hoping to come across as friendly and engaging, hopefully putting the other witch at ease. She could already see from the woman’s posture and expressions, that Adelita had given the impression of power, and she could see she would have to work that much harder to make Violet feel... safe. Ade had no intention of hurting Violet, only making her feel welcome, she could not have a witch running around town with a bad impression of Helka’s Own, that would not do.

“Claro, I understand” Adelita said as she exhaled, smoke billowing out from her lips and lingering in the air about her. The smell was potent, perhaps stronger than the scent of tobacco considering the ingredients used, but it was not entirely unpleasant. For those with a nose for the aromatic, and not the sweet, it was an enticing smell. It was a love it or hate it kind of scent. “It is prudent to be cautious while in a new town, especially one like Opulence”. The town was known to supernaturals all over America, but it did have a reputation... “We teach our own to be the same, although amongst the towns witches we are safe” Adelita assured, and it was said in such a way that suggested she had a hand in ensuring the towns witches practiced safe witchcraft. “And I pray to Diosa that does not change”.

Just as she spoke, there was a small chime from Adelita’s mobile, which she took from her pocket and very decidedly switched her phone off and placed it on the coffee table. Violet had the Priestesses full attention. 

“Ah, come now. Modesty on women is outdated, you needn’t diminish your gifts in front of me. I do not want to take anything from you, or try to use you for your power” Adelita saw no point in wasting time beating around the bush. The blonde clearly did not trust people or feel safe around strangers easily, that much was clear. One cannot conduct business with a rabbit caught in a trap, intimidating could be useful at times, this was not one of those times. “Helka’s Own is the towns oldest coven, we have power and resources, and we do not seek more than we have” lie. “I don’t mention this to intimidate you, or even to sell you on joining us. Every witch in our coven stays by choice, and if you chose to join us, or to remain alone we will respect that choice, as we respect all of our witches choices” so long as they don’t negatively impact the coven of course. “I would like for you to make that choice too, the choice to be one of us, or be an ally to us” the fact that Adelita did not give Violet other options was telling. Whether Violet joined or not, Adelita would make use of her if she wanted to. 

“We have various friends in solitary witches, all over town” Adelita explained with a grateful smile “They join our spell casting rituals and celebrations as and when they please, they come and they go, they’re friends. But there is never friendship without some give and take”. Though the witch remained smiling cordially, the temperature in the room seemed to drop as Adelita waited for the witch to catch on. “The question is” Adelita paused to lift a crystal cut glass of water to her lips from which she sipped before lowering it again. “What kind of relationship would you like with Helka’s Own?”

The magic that seemed to be embedded in everything around them was palpable in the air. Even though Violet was without her own magic at that moment due to the mist, she could still sense it, and she was on high alert as they made their way towards Adelita’s office, her hand darting out to drag along the stone wall for just a moment, the hair on her arms prickling with some kind of magic electricity. 

She followed the witch into the large room, wide eyes scanning the elegant room quickly, taking in the various beautiful and ornate objects that seemed to decorate every surface. She wanted to seem cool, calm and collected, aloof even, but it was impossible to in such an environment. She hadn’t been in a room as beautiful as this in such a long time, and she longed to be left to her own devices, to be given the time and space to properly investigate each object, to discover what magical powers they may possess.

Pulling her gaze reluctantly away from the bookshelf on one side of the office, Violet offered the fellow witch a vague smile, nodding and moving to sit down as delicately as she could on the nearest armchair. “Oh- they do sound lovely I’m sure, but I smoke only what I grow myself. I’m sure you can understand,” she responded, her voice soft and light. There was not a chance she would smoke some magical blend created by a High Priestess she did not know - it was a big enough ask for her to have even accepted the offer of a drink.

At the mention of the invitation that had managed to worm its way through what Violet had considered to be an incredibly powerful spell, the witch couldn’t help but shift uncomfortably in her seat. She was a proud witch, and the thought that her magic was less powerful than she had believed it to be made her feel sick to her stomach. Her head tilted to the side slightly with curiosity, brow furrowing at the use of the word ‘our’. So the invitation came from some kind of collective. Interesting. The question made Violet freeze up a little, unsure just how much she would give away to the stranger. “Ah- a bit of both I suppose,” she answered shortly, unwilling to reveal much more about the coven she had grown up in. 

#violetlamerton #adelitaflores #Helka's Own #mild threat

[adelitaflores]

The witch watched Thaddeus carefully, her dark eyes watching as he opted for bottled water. She wondered if he was no sober, or if champagne perhaps wasn’t his drink. It was not something she would push for, after all dates who drank too much were not invited back, but she did like to have a man on her arm who looked good with a tequila in hand. There was something about sober people that bored the affluent, like their inhibitions deprived the rich of potential fun and amusement. Ade was always charming the rich and bored for one charitable donation or other. If the people she wanted to seduce into business wanted to share drinks with her, as they often did, a sober date drinking water would not be acceptable. Not that she would say this out loud of course... 

“My family is well, thank you for asking” Adelita’s soft and husky voice was calming ad she sipped champagne and rested her hand on her lap. She knew Thaddeus prioritised family above all else, his daughter for example was clearly the light of his life, so the witch continued “Some of my cousins are becoming teenagers now, so there has been some teen angst and rebellion over family get togethers” She chuckled warmly and joked with a carefree shrug “I should be using my time to find a way to keep all the children in our family small and cute... and unable to argue back!”.

Thankfully, the drive to their destination was not long, thankfully and Adelita had only finished her first glass of champagne upon their arrival. The vehicles doors were opened, and as instructed to, their driver made sure that Adelita could step out of the door and walk straight into the home. 

As Adelita stepped out of the car, she reached with one hand, elegant long fingers reaching out for Thaddeus to take her hand and offer his arm. 

The small get together was in fact a dinner for thirty of the town’s most prominent business owners and political figures. The dinner was being hosted at one of the manors in Ashmore, which boasted several acres of land and multiple ornately decorated rooms, the décor or which flowed seamlessly between each room. Tonight, dinner would be hosted on the veranda overlooking a temporary enchanted beach where various of the town’s sirens had been hired to perform choreographed dance. Unlike Adelita’s own estate, where she had a guard at every post, this manor appeared to only have a few members of staff on hand to serve food and drinks, and of course to open doors. 

Their host was the towns executive - Peter Harding, whom stood at the front door greeting three other guests as Adelita and Thaddeus arrived. He was Adelita’s target for that evening - he was in his mid forties, recently divorced and a single father of two twin boys. Like Thaddeus he also came from money, but somehow retained the belief that all creatures are born equal and should be treated with respect regardless of their class. Adelita agreed whole heartedly... when she was in conversation with him at least. Like her choice in date - a younger man whose company Peter could enjoy for nostalgia’s sake - her opinions were calculated. 

“Ahh Priestess!” the host smiled, clearly delighted to see the older woman. “And Thaddeus Spalding! I didn’t know the two of you were coming together, what a handsome couple you make!”.

Adelita smiled charmingly, and glanced up at Thaddeus, somehow appearing several inches shorter than she had in the car. The witch did not remark on it and hoped Thaddy would not at least until they were inside. 

Partners in faux romance

#thaddeusspaulding #adelitaflores #politics #manipulation #tw alcohol #sorry its so long

[adelitaflores]

                           𝖙𝖜𝖔 𝖊𝖑𝖉𝖊𝖗 𝖇𝖗𝖔𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖗𝖘

adelita flores is looking for her two elder brothers. this connection is open.

unnamed appears as though they are over thirty-five years old, they are a witch*, who is connected to adelita flores as her two elder brothers. she looks an awful lot like alice braga and thinks they may look something like no suggestions.

Adelita became High Priestess of Helka's Own, despite being the third child due to inherit, after her two elder brothers mysteriously disappeared. 

The storyline can be discussed, but Adelita needs to be somewhat involved, to the detriment of her brothers. The plot cannot include the murder of either brother at Adelitas hands. 

She will remain High Priestess upon either brothers return, but of course her claim will come into question. As public figures in the community, the storyline will need to take this into consideration. Public and permanent shame to characters will have to be seriously considered, as I'd really like to play out a power struggle. 

Adelita's 12 year term as High Priestess has culminated in her decision to select the next in line based on merit, not blood, which has upset various family members and the more traditional witches in the coven. This and various other modern changes that Ade implemented could be used as a way to divide the coven over who should be Priest/Priestess. Looking for a plot line that is influenced by gang culture, old English Royal culture, and anything else you might want to bring to the Flores table! 

*could be turned vampire, siren, or werewolf, bearing in mind claim to the Priesthood of Helka's Own can only be accepted if the character is still a witch

0/2 Roles Taken

You do need to contact @adelitaflores regarding this wanted connection.

[adelitaflores]

***

Santiago’s delicate nibbles on his food made Adelita hungry. She had not stopped to eat since earlier that morning, and in truth the food was always divine. The in house chef had been with the family for almost two generations, and he stuck with the classics as prescribed by Adelita’s mother. Available that day was,  Asado mazatleco, Tacos gobernador,  ceviche, sope and Aguachile, all served piping hot fresh from the grill, or kept cool by being placed above crystal serving bowls of ice. Adelita had had her eyes on the Asado mazalteco for the past five minutes, her mouth watering for the stodgy potatoes, but out of sheer pettiness, Adelita often feined disinterest in food. It wound her mother up to no end, that her daughter seemed to reject their traditional dishes, and that gave Ade a sense of control over the relationship. 

“Claro que no!” Adelita laughed outload, her deep and low chuckle going unnoticed by the family who were eagerly tucking into food, or gossiping over wine or beer. And of course, tequila. “No, our family is made up of many colours Santiago... besides, it is harder for mama-” Adelita broke off then, her dark eyes reverting from Santiago’s face to the tequila in her hand “I just mean you know they are protective” The witch was thinking of her brothers, the two older siblings who should have been the coven’s Priests and the family’s patriarch. She watched as her mother and aunt crooned over the younger ones. “I don’t think she sees that her protective instinct is a little.... controlling”

It felt like the two cousins were sat side by side at a performative tableaux, analysing the performers, critiquing their style. That is how Adelita felt anyway, it is how she felt about most things in life. Despite her position, or her over bearing loving family, she often felt like an audience member. She was observant from a distance, with an almost tangible line separating her from the rest of the world. 

Family Flores; complicada

#santiagoflores #adelitaflores #floresfamily #tw alcohol #tw family issues #tw control issues

[adelitaflores]

-

Adelita watched the young witch, her expressions were entertaining for their was no façade to them, no discernible curtain of deceit that the older witch could detect. But this woman was a stranger to her and Adelita knew better than to make those kinds of observations so soon in a social interaction. 

Natsuki’s decision to once again include the guards in their interaction did not initially irritate Adelita. She was accustomed to creatures feeling obliged to interact with whichever guards she had on duty at that time. It wasn’t exactly normal to always be shadowed by at least two intimidating figures, and despite her years of experience with it, Adelita hadn’t lost that much touch with reality that she didn’t acknowledge the awkwardness of it. 

Still, the witch knew from experience, that with enough time it would begin to wear on her. The guards selected were hired for their skills in combat, their years of experience, or just sheer dumb luck that they were the humans that were now benefiting from the mist. They were not selected because they would make for good company. Admittedly, Adelita had grown close to some of her guards, but not all of them, and she didn’t prioritise making time to get to know them. They were a necessary part of the job, her brother had had them before her, and their grandmother had had guards before him and so on. Was there a class divide? Perhaps. But Adelita knew it was more than that. She worked a lot, there was never enough time in the day, and if a creature was not of use to her and her coven then she did not make time for them. 

“This is Ashok and Sima” Adelita gestured to the guards behind her, a patient smile on her face. The guards who stood behind her nodded politely at Natsuki, the male looking relatively calm, the eager female looking a little pink in the cheeks. “They who have generously filled in as guards” Adelita chose not to explain why she was now using human guards instead of supernatural ones. The humans were currently stronger, so it made sense to temporarily employ them. The privilege of having full time body guards, while her people remained vulnerable, was not something that the Priestess really wanted highlighting. 

The shift in atmosphere was not lost to the young witch, who did seem to visibly brighten at the warmer and more casual introduction. It was rather intimidating to be faced with the High Priestess and her guards and Natsuki still regarded the older woman with the reverence and respect due to her status but it was just easier to respond warmly to others when the sentiment seemed mutual.

An aspect of her own culture and show of respect was to bow but it wasn't always received in the same way here so she opted not to, instead just taking Adelita's offered hand and shaking it gently but firmly. "My name is Natsuki," she released the older witch's hand and once freed, brushed her own hair back behind her ear, her lips pressed together in a smile, gaze shifted from the High Priestess toward the two guards who stood dutifully behind, "And what are your names?" She spoke to them directly for she felt it would be rude to refer to them as if they were not there.

#natsukiinokata #adelitaflores #privilege #class divide

[adelitaflores]

***

Adelita smiled at the younger woman and she bowed her head in thanks.

“Well, thank you so much. You can consider this your good dead of the day! I shall have to pay that kindness forward now” 

The witch readjusted her stance as she lowered the box of cakes into her handbag, careful not to make a mess. 

“I was just heading out for the afternoon, can I offer you a lift anywhere?”

Despite the genuine kindness of the other woman, Adelita felt the need to return the courtesy now, and avoid any future feelings of outstanding debt to the stranger. It was less of an obligation on Adelita’s part, and instead due to her incessant need to be in control of every situation, social or otherwise. Perhaps it was bad practice, maybe even a sad habit, but the witch was simply accustomed to feeling responsible for everything and therefore made every effort to not owe anyone a kindness. 

“It is really no problem” Adelita assured before she had given Natsuki an opportunity to decline. From a stranger, the offer of a car ride might seem outright foolish, but Adelita was a public figure in town and assumed Natsuki would recognise her.

As Natsuki was only a simple woman, the entire unspoken exchange between the magnanimous High Priestess and her guard went unnoticed and she only offered her own polite responses to the woman who had come forward to claim the box of little cakes, smiling thankfully and reassuringly, restating "I hope you like them," and "You're very welcome."

With her hands now free, they felt empty and needing an occupation so they defaulted to their usual state when she had nothing to do with them but had the uneasy feeling in which something needed to fill them so began to interlace them behind her back until Adelita's suggestion at giving her money for the cakes came up. This prompted the younger witch to bring her hands forward, open palms that waved in the air, "Oh no, I couldn't possibly take anything for them," she refused the offer with desperate politeness, shaking her head and her hands in protest. "They were given to me for free so it only makes sense they should also be given away for free. I couldn't possibly take money for them. I didn't even make them. Please, consider them a gift."

#natsukiinokata #adelitaflores #sorry its so short

[adelitaflores]

***

As Adelita guided the way to her office, she thought on Violet’s drink order. Witches, unlike some of their supernatural counterparts - wolves, vampires - witches did not typically have a magically enhanced physicality. They were not supernaturally strong or quick to heal, or immortal - typically speaking, witches had relatively human genealogy, meaning their tolerance to alcohol was human. Adelita drank a lot of tequila, and over time had built up a level of tolerance. She couldn’t help but be impressed by Violet’s choice of whiskey and ice. Despite appearances, perhaps Violet had a little edge to her. 

As the pair made their way through the back rooms, towards a wooden staircase and an old manual elevator that suited the décor of Sabor. Despite the mist, old magics still remained and as such, when the two witches made their way to the elevator, the scissor gate rattled and slid open of it’s own accord and snapped shut behind them. The elevator operated on it’s own accord and the two women were promptly taken up to the third floor, where they passed through a set of double doors and were in the Priestesses office.

The office was generous in size, its bare brick walls giving it a rustic element, similar to downstairs. The huge half moon window at the far end of the office gave an impressive view of the town centre. Opposite the window was of course a traditionally large oak desk, boasting a computer, a leather chair, and some perfectly organised stationary. There were two guest chairs that sat at the table, but Adelita made her way over to the lounge area. The seating area consisted of a large leather sofa and two opposing matching arm chairs in Sienna. There was a fire place, but no fire was lit due to the heat, and on the coffee table sat a crystal decanter of water, two matching glasses, a midnight blue, ash tray and an ornately crafted wooden box filled with Adelita’s own magically enhanced rolled cigarettes. 

“Please, make yourself at home!” Adelita encourages, as she herself unbuttoned the suit of her jacket and sat on the sienna sofa. As she arranged herself on the sofa, so her suit would not wrinkle, but she could sit comfortably, she gestured for Violet to help herself to a cigarette and water.

“The cigarettes are my own, they contain ginger and peppermint, and some other choice magical ingredients” Adelita explained. It was no secret that Adelita, like her grandmother before her was a Destructora de maldiciones which roughly translated to curse destroyer. It was not common knowledge however, just how Adelita destroyed cursed objects; she ate them. No matter the material, Adelita could eat cursed objects and as you can imagine, some stomach aches ensued; ergo cigarettes with anti inflammatory ingredients to help ease that pain. Without magic, Adelita had had to settle for simply locking cursed objects away, but she continued to smoke out of habit now. 

“I am sorry for ensuring our invitation got through your spell, I suspected that might surprise you a little” Adelita explained, her low voice further deepened as she took a deep drag of a cigarette “I have to say though your smell was quite marvellous, is it an old family spell or are you a particularly strong spell caster?” 

Violet watched with wide eyes as the tiniest motion of the Priestess’ fingers had a member of staff come bustling over to them almost immediately, unable to stop herself from the slightly shocked expression that appeared on her features. She had never had anyone in her command - even within the coven, everyone was treated as an equal. The elders of course were granted a different level of respect and reverence, but still, they never held command the way that Adelita seemed to. Perhaps she was more powerful than Violet had first realised - the title High Priestess meant little to her, but it clearly held weight to many others.

“Well, I was concerned that I would just continue to receive letters. I don’t quite know how you did it - I have a spell around my property that tends not to allow mail to arrive from people I have not met. And yet - yours found a way through…” she trailed off, eyes slanting with a little suspicion as she offered the fellow witch a wry, cold smile. Violet was reluctant to accept any hospitality but the offer of a drink was one she couldn’t pass up, her answer falling from her lips quickly. “Whiskey on the rocks with a twist,” she nodded, her legs walking her forwards despite her brain’s hesitation. 

#adelitaflores #violetlamerton #magic #witchcraft #tw smoking

[adelitaflores]

***

Unaware that she had an audience, Adelita continued to hum a soft song from her childhood, as she twisted and folded leaves between deft fingertips. She was  adorning the boarder of her Oak Royalty mask, with lavender, its scent staining her fingertips. The mask, like the others she had had piled on the stone table, was beautiful. It was old by design, fresh by construct, and a quintessential part of the traditional summer solstice that Adelita would miss seeing upon the faces of dancing witches. 

This year, Helka’s Own coven would celebrate in their individual homes, restrained by the very necessary curfew. Adelita had faith that the families would all devote some time to performing the yearly summer solstice dancing tableaux. If ever there was a year that called for traditions, it was this one. Traditions, the comfort of the known and predictable, were all key elements that Adelita encouraged her coven to stick to. A sense of continuity was emboldening during a time of uncertainty. 

Unaware of the watchful eyes on her, Adelita finished the mask and returned it to the table where she began to very carefully wrap the masks in brown paper, securing the packages with string. From there, she would begin to place the masks in a basket by her feet, but first she felt compelled to bless the masks first. Without magic, Adelita and the other coven witches continued to practice the art of witchcraft in a very human way. No floating candles, or showers of honeysuckle, just some good old fashioned ceremonial practices and faith. She had faith that she was still somehow tethered to the source magic of her coven. All of the witches and creatures of Opulence were. Some villain had just temporarily muddied that connection with dark energies, but the connection was still there, they just couldn’t feel it right now, they just needed faith. 

Faith was a luxury Adelita indulged in and encourages others to do the same. If they had faith their magics would return, then so mote it be. 

The tall and willowy witch placed a gentle hand over each mask, whispered a pray between humming, and layered blue irises between the leaves of the masks. This went on for several minutes, as Adelita focused all of her mortal energy on the sanctity of the prayer. Only when a small, unexpected noise sounded, did the witch stop.

At this point, Adelita could usually just turn to her guards, but the witch had insisted on solitude, and the almost forty year old woman had snuck out of the estate to be alone. She felt vulnerable, as she froze to the spot, anxious of whoever or whatever might be behind her. It was truly humbling, to not wield the power a coven’s worth of witches. Slowly, with a stoic expression, and a mask clenched tightly in her hands, Adelita turned to face the stranger with a fearless expression. 

Prep for Summer Solstice celebrations

#adelitaflores #eilonwy #summer solstice #witchcraft #supernatural

[adelitaflores]

***

Thaddeus’s flushed cheeks amused Adelita, and she realised this was a little cruel of her. The man was clearly uncomfortable, but he looked so attractive in his suit, with his warm cheeks and nervous movements. Adelita knew she was being unkind to him but frankly, she didn’t care. She may have presented herself publicly as a warm and maternal creature, but in truth there was little in this world that could break through her hard exterior. There was something about watching a man like Thaddeus squirm, that gave Adelita a sly thrill. 

As a spare child, Adelita had spent her entire life being the last sibling to acknowledge. Throughout her adolescent years, Adelita had been the after thought - “Oh, Ade? Yes, she’s fine, but have you heard what her brothers achieved. These types of flippant conversations had been the foundation for the high achieving Priestess who now lived in the public eye. She had not only been permitted into the upper society, but now over saw it as the coven’s leader. It should have soothed her wounded pride, but it did not. 

Besides, there were plenty of handsome man just like Thaddeus - handsome, cis men from good families and money - who had ignored her in favour of catching the attention of her brothers, or worse; feigned interest in her so that her brothers might notice them. Even now, in her late thirties, Adelita couldn’t help but allow a small part of herself to delight when she made men like Thaddeus uncomfortable. 

“It’s a small get together for a few residents of note” Adelita explained, easing back into her seat, but keeping her long legs facing Thaddy, almost touching his.  The combination of her dark, glistening gown, her willowy figure, and soft skin was undoubtedly enticing. Even the lingering scent of her cigarettes; ginger, peppermint and ambrette was a heady combination. 

She intended to overwhelm the young man. Adelita had every intention of seducing and gaslighting Thaddeus into a relationship with her. Just for a little while. She needed arm candy and Thaddeus ticked that box. He also had a good reputation as a father and professional, which reflected well on her, and had ties to the community despite his not being born and bred in Opulence. He was an ideal candidate for dating, Ade just didn’t have the time nor the inclination to attempt to create something real with him. 

“Some members of the town council will be there, the mayor of course... it’s really a small gathering” exaggeration. “It will just be a few friends” lie “indulging in a few drinks and some food outside of work” an outright, bare faced lie. Adelita smiled warmly at Thaddeus, lifting her champagne to her lips and sipping. She would have preferred tequila, but Ade wasn’t sure of Thaddy’s tolerance levels. As the witch draped one leg over the other, she allowed one foot to dangle nonchalantly by Thaddeus’s knee. She remained close, but did not crowd him, in fact, as she lounged in the car seat, she looked more like an inviting than intimidating. 

Partners in faux romance

#sorry its so long #adelitaflores #thaddeusspaulding #tw alcohol #tw adult content #tw gaslight mention #tw toxic

[adelitaflores]

***

The High Priestess watched as Violet toyed nervously with her clothing, and she heard the soft murmur of the other witch. She wondered if perhaps a more private setting would be appropriate, and as soon as she thought it, it was decided. She signalled by lifting a hand to attract the attention of a bar tender, who quickly left her spot behind the bar and began to hurry over to her boss.

“I’m so glad, you decided to come by in person” Adelita replied with warm sincerity, pressing the tips of her fingers together as the bar tender reached them. 

“Thank you Vivian, could you prepare a couple of drinks for myself and Violet-” Adelita began to order, before pausing. Before the mist, the witches behind the bar of Sabor De Flores had used their magically enhanced intuition to prepare the customers ideal drink. It had been a huge part of the distillery’s schtick. Without that, staff were now vigilant with actually taking orders. “Violet” she said, turning to look at the younger witch “I thought we could have a drink in my office, I will be drinking the house tequila, what is your poison?”.

Violet didn’t have to wait long, her name spoken by a tall, elegant woman in a pristine white suit. She moved down the staircase with ease and grace, almost as if she was floating, her voice filling Violet’s ears despite the din of the bar. Violet felt immediately on edge, regretting her decision to have come somewhere so public. The patrons that were sat all around enjoying their drinks paused for a moment, a lull in the noise as they looked between Adelita and Violet with curiosity. Violet could feel her cheeks reddening slightly with embarrassment - this was her living nightmare, preferring always to slip into the shadows unnoticed. Having the eyes of so many on her who did not know her was unpleasant, and her fingers twisted the fabric of her dress anxiously as she waited for the witch to reach her.

Thankfully the quiet didn’t last too long, the customers returning to their conversations as Adelita made her way over to Vioet. The priestess was the epitome of put together, the complete opposite of Violet herself, and the blonde witch felt suddenly so self-conscious, which was unusual for her. She didn’t usually care who noticed her, or what she looked like. She dressed for herself. But stood there with the priestess towering over her in such a perfect outfit? It was hard not to feel a little inadequate. “It’s… it’s nice to meet you too,” Violet murmured, although the statement did not ring true. “I received your second letter and I supposed you deserved a response.”

#violetlamerton #adelitaflores #Sabor De Flores #Opulence #tw alcohol

[adelitaflores]

***

Adelita watched as the witch put her hands behind her back, and she wondered at the apparent anxiousness or restlessness of the woman before her. Perhaps the other woman was nervous, perhaps just a nervous and sincerely polite person, but then perhaps there was something wrong. Adelita considered that perhaps her status and guards were a lot for someone who was not accustomed to that way of life. This was where Adelita felt she lacked, the most; her ability to relate to the public and vice versa. 

“Well, thank you” Adelita said in a softer tone, visibly relaxing her upright posture as she offered a hand in introduction. “Adelita” she introduced, opting not to use her full name, sensing this would have added a tad too much formality to their accidental social run in. 

As Natsuki was only a simple woman, the entire unspoken exchange between the magnanimous High Priestess and her guard went unnoticed and she only offered her own polite responses to the woman who had come forward to claim the box of little cakes, smiling thankfully and reassuringly, restating "I hope you like them," and "You're very welcome."

With her hands now free, they felt empty and needing an occupation so they defaulted to their usual state when she had nothing to do with them but had the uneasy feeling in which something needed to fill them so began to interlace them behind her back until Adelita's suggestion at giving her money for the cakes came up. This prompted the younger witch to bring her hands forward, open palms that waved in the air, "Oh no, I couldn't possibly take anything for them," she refused the offer with desperate politeness, shaking her head and her hands in protest. "They were given to me for free so it only makes sense they should also be given away for free. I couldn't possibly take money for them. I didn't even make them. Please, consider them a gift."

#natsukiinokata #adelitaflores #sorry it's so short

[adelitaflores]

***

If there was ever a time that Adelita felt less like the powerful priestess that she was, it was when she spent time with family in private. In public, Adelita’s family accorded her with the respect owed to her status, but behind closed doors, she often felt like the third spare child she had spent her childhood feeling like. It’s hard to say if this was an emotional response to typical family dynamics, or if Adelita’s private feelings were warranted. The Priestesses mother was the original matriarch of the family, and she resumed that identity no matter how powerful or important her daughter became. Out of respect, and perhaps a little triggered by memories and feelings from childhood, Adelita did not challenge her mother. Instead, she handled it by smiling with all of her teeth.

That strained smile was wiped away by a smirk, when she heard her cousin speak. The witch turned to look at Santiago.

“So, you have not seen this side of my mother yet?” Adelita said with a wry smile, her dark eyes drifting back to where her mother now stood showing one of the cousins how to best hold their own baby. “Her intentions are good...” Adelita trailed off as she watched before returning her gaze back to Santiago. “Mostly”. 

Family Flores; complicada

#santiagoflores #adelitaflores #tw family drama

[adelitaflores]

***

Thy coven’s haunt was an understatement if there ever was one, but the witch knew Minho meant no offense, its location, even its existence was not exactly public knowledge after all. This quiet place, frozen in time it seemed from the preservation of the ruins that remained, was a place for quiet contemplation, and had once been a sort of magical anchor to the coven. Now that the witches had lost connection to their magics, even their place of worship seemed distant from them. To have lost their magic was bad enough, but to have lost that magical chord that drew them back to this place of worship when in need, it had hurt more families and members of the coven than Adelita could stand. 

The magic was not entirely lost though. A sense of calm and safety from it’s oldest magics lingered, and as such Adelita had continued to host prayer circles and meetings there. The ceremonies were different now, without magic, but Adelita insisted on running the show as normal, feeling that now, more than ever, consistency and devotion to their source magic was imperative. 

“Yes, you have stumbled across Helka’s Own place of worship. We convene here for prayer circles, casting circles and so on.” Adelita explained in a low tone that clearly displayed her deepest devotion and appreciation. “It was also where we celebrated the Summer Solstices...” Adelita trailed off, memories of previous celebrations, something the coven would be deprived of this year due to the much needed mandated curfew. “I thought it appropriate to spend some time here before heading home and celebrating with my family” she ended on a more positive note, and a hopeful smile. 

“You are more than welcome to join us, we always have rooms prepared for guests of course” The witch invited with a warm smile, her dark eyes appraising the fae’s expression, already noting the change in his tone of voice. 

Prep for Summer Solstice celebrations

#minhoandadelita #helkasown #opulence #magic

[adelitaflores]

***

Adelita smiled as the handsome man climbed into the back of the car to sit next to her. He looked good, she had almost forgotten just how attractive he was. Almost, she had of course thought of him because he was a looker, his pleasant personality was just a perk she was curious to see if he could maintain around other people. It was one thing to be pleasant one on one, but managing to consistently appear pleasant when all eyes were on you, was another skill set entirely. Considering his breeding, Adelita was hopeful, but given his shy side, she wanted to test it. 

“No we can’t confront them directly, it’s too aggressive” Adelita continued with her phone conversation while gesturing to the bottle of champagne on ice and the two glasses perched in a in built holders. 

“I suggest taking a more subtle approach, remind him we’re still undecided on where to allocate charitable funds for the next quarter” Adelita’s expression was friendly, and she looked very much at ease, one leg draped invitingly over the other, but her tone of voice was hard. “He knows without our contribution, they won’t be able to continue the project... Yes. Thank you”.

With that, Adelita pulled the phone from her ear and hung up, quickly finishing off another text on the other phone she had, before sliding both phones into her clutch and bestowing a dazzling smile upon the handsome younger man by her side.

“I am so sorry for that, it’s so rude of me I know” Adelita’s voice was warmer now, and the hard edge disappeared completely. She leaned forward to offer her cheek for him to kiss, an innocent enough offer, but she was deliberate in moving smoothly, bringing her body close to his as she did so. She needed the pair to appear as though they might have been dating a while, and so intended to appear interested, available, keen even. “I promise you have my undivided attention” she assured, lightly touching his shoulder as she did so. She knew that chemistry or no chemistry, she was an attractive woman, if she played it right, she could make him think there was something there for a night. Adelita found that when people thought they were with a chance of getting lucky, they would roll with it. Hopefully Thaddeus would be no different.  

Partners in faux romance

#thaddeusspaulding #adelitaflores #tw alcohol #tw manipulation

[adelitaflores]

Family Flores; complicada

Starter @santiagoxflores​

Where: Flores estate, Ashmore

When: Late afternoon

With the town wide curfew, most of the fabulous parties hosted at the Flores estate had been cancelled, or rescheduled for another time, a better time. Family dinners, however, barbeques, even brunches were a non-negotiable, and Adelita was grateful for the multitude of rooms and space that the estate held. Every day, there were at least two Flores family members wandering around the estate or spending the house. The home had always been open to kin. Adelita was the High Priestess of the coven and lived at the estate, but she did now own it. The estate belonged to her parents and would be passed onto their her, when they passed, or become incapacitated. Her parents ran the home as Adelita’s grandparents before them, and their grandparents before them. It was always run the same, home to all Flores kin. In a way, Adelita liked it, she liked the tradition of it, but at times... as a woman almost in her forties, it could be... difficult, living in such close quarters with family who could come and go as they please, while she always remained. 

Adelita’s mother had thrown together an impromptu barbeque party, and had given her daughter the kind of look that told Adelita attendance was mandatory. Upon arrival though, Adelita noted that not many family had been able to make it, and in fact it was a very intimate get together. 

The Priestess greeted her parents first, her mother was looming over the staff who were grilling their food, while her father sat by the pool with her uncles drinking and smoking. Then Adelita went to sit on a marble bench, overlooking the sprawling grounds, and was immediately served a glass of her favourite tequila by one of the staff. Her family had clustered into various small groups, and she watched them all socialise. They all appeared so care free and jovial, smiling and laughing. She didn’t feel excluded, only removed somehow. It occurred to the witch that it had been a while since she had indulged in some genuinely carefree, jovial social interactions. Did she even know how to?

A heavy sigh left Adelita’s lips, just as her mother decided to pass by her and she frowned at her daughter. 

“Mija, Que pasa?” The question was not asked in a way that invited Adelita to open up, instead it felt like a reminder to behave. Adelita sat up in response and smiled her perfectly at ease public smile. “Better!” was the response she got. 

“Bruja!” Adelita muttered through smiling, gritted teeth as her mother hurried past her to insist on helping the waiters carry their loads. The relationship with her mother was complicated, but it was loving. Or at least, it appeared so. Sometimes.

#santiagoflores #adelitaflores #flores estate #ashmore #opulence starter #closed starter #tw family drama #tw adult language

[adelitaflores]

Partners in faux romance

Starter @thad-spaulding

When: 19:00

Where: Outside Thaddeus’s place

Inviting Thaddeus to be her dinner companion had been a last minute plan, after it was suggested to Adelita, that her lack of love life was beginning to inspire whispers once again. Adelita had been a single since the beginning over her reign as Priestess almost thirteen years prior. She had made an effort to date regularly, all of her dates being handsome and having a sterling reputation in town, but none had stuck. Adelita’s love was her coven; dating as a mere inconvenience. It wasn’t like Adelita didn’t have needs... but the last time she had acted on those urges, well she had suffered consequences harsh enough to put anyone off dating. But it was time. Adelita knew it, and apparently so did other people.

Thaddeus’s and Adelita’s date a year ago had been pleasant enough, he was handsome and seemed a genuinely good guy, but it had lacked... chemistry. This wasn’t off putting to the woman who dated more for show than much else, but with the mist and everything else, Adelita had sort of... fallen out of contact with him, and Thaddeus hadn’t seemed especially keen to pursue further contact either. Still, he was available and had said yes, so Adelita was confident that the date would go well. 

That evening, Adelita wore a simple, rich navy blue one shouldered, floor length gown. On her feet she wore matching satin pointed shoes with stiletto heel, back bow detailing and ankle strap fastening. For jewellery she still wore her Helka’s Own ring, a simple diamond bracelet and studs in her ears. The dark curls were secured into a sleek, ornate bun at the back of her head. It was a simple yet expensive outfit, selected for it’s simplicity, relying on the shape of her willowy figure for aesthetic. She of course knew Thaddeus would be dressed in a way that coordinated with her outfit, and if by chance the man did go off script... well, in truth she had left a couple of tie options and cuff links with her driver... just in case. 

As the long dark car pulled up outside Thaddeus’s home, and one of her guards slipped out the front to go and strode up to the front door and knocked. Adelita herself remained inside the car, speaking softly to one of her advisors on one phone, while texting at the same time on another. Despite her beautiful evening attire, from the stern expression, she looked more like she was working, than excited to attend a dinner party in her free time. 

#thaddeusspaulding #adelitaflores #date #poor thaddy #opulence starter