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mythriteshah · 2 years

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A Fashion Magnate’s Missive

“Honorable friends, associates, and allies of the Regalia,

I pray that this message finds you all well. These past few moons have been naught short of... eventful. That the apocalypse would leave just as quickly as it befell Etheirys serves as a testament to the strength and resolve of the countless adventurers and protectors of the realm.

But, as always, this only affirms my statement that the realm continues to maintain its status quo of perennial incursions, primal uprisings, and all-around buffoonery. The Power in Beauty Catalogue’ has taken absolute hold of the fashion scene, and has received considerable acclaim since the release of the Blessed Wardrobe, Fourteen Apsaras, and Dragonsong Couture, and I’ve you all to thank for making this a reality - from our chosen models, to our collaborators, to the spreading of the good fashion word. It is absolutely astounding seeing the fruits of our labor finally showing results. And while I may shower you all with praise for bells on end, the true reason for this missive’s creation is of even greater magnitude than the previous.

Firstly, I would like to extend gratitude to our longest-standing allies of the @bandeepakshee. They have given the Higuri Regalia a plentiful taste of the finer things in life, which has led to many successes for both businesses. As thanks, I have given them the honor of their own exclusive clothing line that I intend on unveiling by Summer’s end. For those intent on exploring a more risque side of haute couture, be on the lookout.

Secondly - as silly as it sounds - a grand dream had come upon me, where I had been granted the clarity and knowledge necessary for my latest project, and has allowed me to ascend to an echelon surpassing Mythrite. Unlike the previous lines, this one will pertain to the adventurers and brave warriors (of light) who have kept Etheirys safe all these winters, combining practicality with style. At the time of this letter’s dissemination, my latest project is at fifty percent completion, and I am looking to bring it to light by the arrival of winter. If you desire to wield the power of the cold - or if you enjoy cool colors and functional attire - then I highly advise that you keep in the know.

As before, should any of you ever become eager for a ‘teaser,’ you are more than welcome to ask, as my business prides itself on its generosity. Otherwise, as stated before, expect its grand unveiling by the coming of winter - for all, and Etheirys at large, will be reminded why my empire’s credo is 'Where There is Power in Beauty.’”

Sincerely,

Thiji Sor Higuri, Diamond Sultan of the Higuri Regalia

#thiji higuri #Higuri Regalia #pib catalogue #fashion #high fashion #haute couture #ff14 FFXIV #lalafell master race #Lalafell #bandee pakshee #ffxiv balmung #ffxiv rp #missive #winter #Dragonsong Couture #Hydaelyn Runway #Eikon Collection #the blessed wardrobe #Fourteen Apsaras

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leanstooneside · 1 year

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SCIENCE NEWS

◊ FOUR PROFESSIONS

◊ FOUR KINDS

◊ SEVEN RISHIS

◊ FIVE TIMES

◊ THOUSAND YEARS

◊ HUNDRED PALASAS

◊ HUNDRED BHISHMAS

◊ SEVEN OTHER TRIBES

◊ FOURTEEN VICES

◊ SEVEN KINDS

◊ ONE DAY

◊ SEVEN FIRES

◊ ONE MAN

◊ HUNDRED SACRIFICES

◊ FOUR VEDAS

◊ SEVEN CLASSES

◊ FOUR MONTHS

◊ ONE GOETH

◊ SIX EVILS

◊ ONE ART

◊ ONE CAUSEST

◊ SEVENTY YOJANAS

◊ HUNDRED MONARCHS

◊ FIVE YOJANAS

◊ HUNDRED BHIMAS

◊ EIGHT KINDS

◊ FOUR CLASSES

◊ FOURTH DIVISION

◊ THREEEYED

◊ FIFTY YOJANAS

◊ ONE APPROACH

◊ FIRST THYSELF

◊ THIRD DIVISIONS

◊ THREE CLASSES

◊ THREE VEDAS

◊ FOUR ARTS

◊ THREE WORLDSBOTH

◊ THOUSAND OTHER KINGS

◊ THREE KINDS

◊ THOUSAND RAYS

◊ HUNDRED PRATIVINDHYAS

◊ THOUSAND WIVES

◊ THOUSAND RISHIS

◊ FOUR ORDERS

◊ TWELVE MANDALAS

◊ A HUNDRED

◊ HUNDRED YOJANAS

◊ ONE'S RENOWN

◊ THOUSAND OTHER APSARAS

◊ TWENTY TRIBES

◊ EIGHTY KINGS

◊ ONE I

◊ FIVE OFFICES

◊ EIGHT BRANCHESALL

◊ TWO AGNIS

◊ THREE WORLDS

◊ ONE KING

◊ SEVEN ISLANDS

◊ EIGHT INGREDIENTS

◊ ONE MAY

◊ SIX SEASONS

◊ HUNDRED KINGS

◊ HUNDRED NAGAS

◊ FOUR OCEANS

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bidandhammer · 1 year

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QUEEN TRISHLA'S DREAMS Jain Narrative Scroll / Miniature Painting Rajasthan Late 18th Century Natural Dyes on Paper Pasted on Loin Cloth Dimension: 216 x 12 inches (17 ft x 1 ft) . . . . . This is a narrative ‘Vintee Patrika’, literally meaning a formal and ceremonial invitation letter, sent to religious heads. This rare and elaborate scroll has been painstakingly hand painted by local artists for His Holiness Shri Pujya Jinendra Suriji Maharaj, a great Jain saint, inviting him to stay and conduct the four months ‘Chaturmas’ in their town during Vikram Samwat 1845 (Jain calendar) that is circa 1782 AD as per the Gregorian calendar. The scroll depicts; various Tirthankaras and Apsaras, along with the auspicious fourteen dreams of Trishla (the mother of the 24th Tirthankara - Lord Mahavir) and other cosmic and celestial figures, with a painting of a Mahavir Temple and a Srinathji Temple; the scroll also depicts a Jain sadhu & sadhavi delivering their sermon. There are very few surviving scrolls of such fine quality. . . . . . Lot 8 OSTENTATIOUS PEACOCKS 28th March 2023 Online Auction . . *Only partially illustrated here with frame for representational purposes . . To VIEW VIDEOS, complete set of images & full details of this lot visit our website www.bidandhammer.com . . #auspicioussymbols #peacockart #indianbluepeacock #bidandhammerauction #queentrishla #lordmahavir #queentrishaladreams #bidandhammer #jainart #jaintemple #miniaturepainting #narrativepainting #scrollwork #invitationdesign #srinathjipainting #rajasthanart #registernow #jaintirthankar #museumquality #museumqualityart #swastika https://www.instagram.com/p/CqF4TfNv8D6/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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ganeshaspeaks-yahoopartner · 5 years

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Know About The 14 Realms Of Existence As Per The Hindu Tradition

(Image Source: Internet)

It is said that everything in this world is material. Besides, the outer space too is material as it consists of the fundamental units of matter like the atoms and molecules. In fact, as per the psychologists, even our abstract mental processes like thoughts, feelings and emotions are composed of basic structural & functional units.

Scientific Knowledge Vs Traditional Wisdom

Thus, materiality pervades anything and everything. Accordingly, the mainstream and conventional scientific wisdom holds that there is nothing beyond matter, energy, space and time. Everything falls in one of these four categories or are at the most derived from one of them or from their combination. It is here that the most glaring ideological fault-line comes into existence. Many traditions, philosophies and religions opine that there exists something very formidable beyond the normal and mundane perception in sharp contrast to the view held by science.

Heaven & Hell, A Spiritual Necessity

The perception towards this unseen reality varies from tradition to tradition. However, there is a broad consensus among the major belief systems. The belief in good conduct, the need for happiness and the final predicament for the good & bad people forms the core of most of the religious and philosophical traditions. It is here that the concept of heaven and hell come into the picture. It is stated that life can not be complete without practising spiritual truths. It is also stated that spirituality cannot be comprehensive without believing in heaven and hell. Do you want to know about your future? Avail the 2019 Highlights Report.

Indian Tradition On Heaven & Hell

Indeed, karma begets the perception of good & bad which can only be substantiated by the existence of heaven (a destination where good souls enjoy) and hell (a place where the evil souls suffer). For most people, the concept of heaven & hell is too far fetched & mysterious. Well, the mystery of the universe and that of existence is well documented in the many scriptures of Hindu mythology. All beings that reside within the universe, do so in different realms within it. These realms or worlds are known as Lokas. Read on and know about them:

The 14 Lokas Of Hinduism

What are the 14 Lokas In Hindu Mythology

Hindu mythology defines fourteen worlds (not to be confused with planets) – seven higher worlds (heavens) and seven lower ones (underworlds). (The earth is considered the lowest of the seven higher worlds.) The higher worlds are the 7 Vyahrtis and lower worlds the 7 Patalas. Read on to know more:

The 7 Vyahrtis (Heavens or Upperworlds):

1 Satya-Loka: Brahma’s Loka or Satya-Loka planetary system is not eternal. Abode of Truth or of Brahma, where atman are released from the necessity of rebirth.

2 Tapa-Loka: Abode of tapas or of other deities. Ayohnija Devadas live here.

3 Jana-Loka: Abode of the sons of God Brahma.

4 Mahar-Loka: The abode of great sages and enlightened beings like Markendeya and other rishis.

5 Svar-Loka: Region between the sun and polar star, the heaven of the god Indra. Indra, Devatas, Rishies, Gandharvas and Apsaras live here: a heavenly paradise of pleasure, where all the 330 million Hindu gods (Deva) reside along with the king of gods, Indra.

6 Bhuvar-Loka (aka Pitri Loka): Sun, planets, stars. Space between earth and the sun, inhabited by semi-divine beings. It is a real region, the atmosphere, the life-force.

7 Bhur-Loka: The Vishnu Purana says that the earth is merely one of the thousands of billions of inhabited worlds like itself to be found in the universe.

The 7 Patalas (Underworlds Or Hell):

1 Atala-Loka: Atala is ruled by Bala – a son of Maya – who possesses mystical powers. By one yawn, Bala created three types of women – svairiṇīs , who like to marry men from their own group; kāmiṇīs, who marry men from any group, and the puḿścalīs.

2 Vitala-Loka: Vitala is ruled by the god Hara-Bhava – a form of Shiva, who dwells with attendant ganas including ghosts and goblins as the master of gold mines. The residents of this realm are adorned with gold from this region.

3 Sutala-Loka: Sutala is the kingdom of the pious demon king Bali.

4 Talatala-Loka: Talātala is the realm of the demon-architect Maya, who is well-versed in sorcery. Shiva, as Tripurantaka, destroyed the three cities of Maya but was later pleased with Maya and gave him this realm and promised to protect him.

5 Mahatala-Loka: Mahātala is the abode of many-hooded Nagas (serpents) – the sons of Kadru, headed by the Krodhavasha (Irascible) band of Kuhaka, Taksshaka, Kaliya and Sushena. They live here with their families in peace but always fear Garuda, the eagle-man.

6 Rasatala-Loka: Rasātala is the home of the demons – Danavas and Daityas, who are mighty but cruel. They are the eternal foes of Devas (the gods). They live in holes like serpents.

7 Patala-Loka: The lowest realm is called Patala or Nagaloka, the region of the Nagas, ruled by Vasuki. Here live several Nagas with many hoods. Each of their hood is decorated by a jewel, whose light illuminates this realm.

With Ganesha’s Grace, The GaneshaSpeaks.com Team

To Get Your Personalised Solutions! Talk To Astrologer Now.

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indiantiquest · 4 years

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. . We all know the famous story of gods & demons standing opposite sides churn the milky ocean using Monutain as a churner, the snake as a rope and pivoting the hill in place over Kurma's back for a grip., in order to obtain the Amrita, to regain back their lost powers, but what we are unaware is that on churning the milky cosmic ocean - fourteen wonderful treasures that became the prototypes for their earthly & heavenly counterparts were brought up from the depths, the order in which they energed are as follows 1. Chandra, the moon, 2. Parijata the wish fulfiling tree 3. Airavata, Indra’s white elephant, 4. Surabhu, the cow of plenty 5. Sura, the goddess of wine, who became Varuni, the wife of Varuna 6. Alaghala Visha the poision spit by the snake drank by Shiva 7. Rambha the Apsaras (celestial dancer) 8. Uccaihshravas - The celestial horse 9. Goddess Lakshmi 10. Panchajanya, Vishnu’s conch 11. Dhanus the mighty bow 12. Kaustuba a jewel made of Various gems 13. Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, who rose up out of the waters carrying in his hands the supreme treasure, the amrita. 14. Amrita . . East India Company documentation painting 1900s property of the Victoria and Albert museum London . . #indiantiquest #antiqueshop #antiquebrass #antiquecopper #antiquebronze #vintagehome #antiqueseller #vintagevignettes #vintagevessels #desidecor #antiques #vintagedecor #oldisgold #interiorstyling #homedecor #antiquestory #rareantiques #vintagevignette #decorprops #kitchenprops #antiquesforsale #homedecor #auctionhouse #myantiquestory https://www.instagram.com/p/CCNxpO3J404/?igshid=ej7fd6t9wc1d

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delicioushumanfarmpainter-blog · 5 years

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• We all know the famous story of gods & demons standing opposite sides churn the milky ocean using Monutain as a churner, the snake as a rope and pivoting the hill in place over Kurma's back for a grip., in order to obtain the Amrita, to regain back their lost powers, but what we are unaware is that on churning the milky cosmic ocean - fourteen wonderful treasures that became the prototypes for their earthly & heavenly counterparts were brought up from the depths, the order in which they energed are as follows 1. Chandra, the moon, 2. Parijata the wish fulfiling tree 3. Airavata, Indra’s white elephant, 4. Surabhu, the cow of plenty 5. Sura, the goddess of wine, who became Varuni, the wife of Varuna 6. Alaghala Visha the poision spit by the snake drank by Shiva 7. Rambha the Apsaras (celestial dancer) 8. Uccaihshravas - The celestial horse 9. Goddess Lakshmi 10. Panchajanya, Vishnu’s conch 11. Dhanus the mighty bow 12. Kaustuba a jewel made of Various gems 13. Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, who rose up out of the waters carrying in his hands the supreme treasure, the amrita. 14. Amrita . . . Lithograph from Raja Ravi varma press . #indiantiquest #antiqueshop #antiquebrass #antiquecopper #antiquebronze #vintagehome #antiqueseller #vintagevignettes #vintagekitchen #desidecor #antiques #vintagedecor #oldfashioned #interiorstyling #homedecor #kitchenvessels #foodstylingprops #foodphotoprops #kitchenprops #antiquestore #rareantiques #vintagevignettes #decorprops #antiquesforsale #vintagehomedecor #auctionhouse https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx1CMLDpcY3/?igshid=1m9v358r4esvd

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42wallaby-way-sydney · 7 years

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do you have any more Asian Elektra hcs?

Always tbh!

Some of these headcanons are going to include my happy domestic au because I need more Elektra in my life.

Okay but one thing, she’s still Greek. She’s adopted by a Greek family. So a lot of my headcanons are also for when she’s been living on her own for a while. But anyway:

- Her favorite book that she finds when she’s a young teenager and first adopted by Hugo and Christina is ‘The Stone Goddess’. She reads it when she’s fourteen or fifteen probably and cried the first time she read it. (fun fact: me.)

- She actually doesn’t learn how to cook Cambodian food until she’s been living on her own for a while. For the longest time all she would cook would be fried rice or stir fry.

- She refuses to make spring rolls with rice paper wraps. She ruined a whole pack and nearly set the kitchen on fire, she was so mad.

- Her favorite story is the story of the Apsara Goddesses.

- She goes to Cambodia and later Thailand for a vacation at some point and is just in awe as she watches the dances.

- She feels awkward asking her adoptive parents if she can learn Khmer and often times felt out of place and like she didn’t belong no matter where she was. She felt she was too Asian to be in Greece. She felt like she was too Greek or white to be Asian. (fun fact: also me.)

Now for some happy domestic au with some of my ocs because I love her so much:

- She, Malee, Alex, and Andréhang out a few times. One such time they had a nice relaxing game of cards. It ended with much yelling. A bowl of rice got spilled. And someone pulled out a knife. (fun fact: my grandma and her friends)

- It wasn’t Elektra who pulled the knife but André.

- Alex spilled the bowl of rice and all four of them gasped in horror.

- No one knows if this was a fake gasp of horror or not since young Jamie, Peyton, Marie, and Alex were video taping them.

- They say they need to do this more often.

- Elektra is a horrible but so amazing aunt to Jack and Vasya. She brings them white rabbit candy. Jack struggles much like Matt did. Vladimir struggles and ends up throwing the candy. Vasya just eats it. Whe Vasya begins dating Jamie, she’ll later learn that you’re supposed to eat the wrapper; she just didn’t want to struggle like her papa and brother and decided to just eat it.Jack learns from Marie and Peyton that you’re supposed to eat the wrapper and nearly flips a table.

- Malee can cook with rice paper wraps and when Elektra sees this she knocks something over, much like an angry cat. Malee laughs. (this was a surprise brotp I didn’t know I needed woah?)

- She goes to Walmart with Matt, Vladimir, and the kids one day and she begins tapping the cantaloupe. When Vladimir slowly begins copying her Matt drags Vasya and Jack away. “Alright, let’s leave the crazies alone.”He just barely hears Vladimir whisper to Elektra, “Why are we doing this?”

#ask me stuff #anon #l o o k #elektra in hd au gives me such life and her and malee being bros kills me in the best way?#like i didnt ask for that?#and yet?#my writing #sorta #but ahhh!#malee attempting to teach her some of the moves for the apsara dance and elektra just not that good #'im better at fighting'#im dead #the ocs #domestic au #more crack headcanons

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jamesbeachum-blog-blog · 4 years

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Day 14 – Simple Inversions | Fifteen days of Yoga for Beginners

Welcome to Day Fourteen of the 15 days of Yoga series for beginners by Apsara Vydyula. In this class, we learn about body inversions #Sarvangasana #Halasana #Matsyasana #fishpose #Yoga #Weightloss #Workouts #asana Inversion therapy is a technique where you are suspended upside down to stretch the spine and relieve back pain. The theory is that …

The post Day 14 – Simple Inversions | Fifteen days of Yoga for Beginners appeared first on International Public Health.

from International Public Health https://ift.tt/32IWONs

#International Public Health

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rhianna · 6 years

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Flying Apsaras (Hiten) (via The Met)

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 224

Apsaras, or hiten in Japanese, are flying celestial beings that accompany Buddhas. These two examples, which display apsaras riding clouds and playing musical instruments, are believed to be part of a group of twelve or fourteen that formerly adorned the mandorla of an eighty-foot-tall statue of Amida at Jōruriji, a Pure Land sect temple in Kyoto. Although the disks and flying sashes are later additions, the apsaras themselves, carved in high relief in Japanese cypress and gilt, are dated to the turn of the twelfth century, when the Amida statue was installed.

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mythriteshah · 2 years

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A Feast of Truths

The evening had arrived in Radz-at-Han. Even when the sun had long ended its vigil, the city was still lively, with peddlers burning the midnight oil in the Balshahn Bazaar; patrons and partygoers living it up in Mehryde’s Meyhane, and the ever-diligent alchemists toiling away in the High Crucible. Adventurers, too, were assisting the local populace in getting the funds disseminated for the Khalzahl Foundation, alleviating some of the burden from the Radiant Host. Many and more were contributing to Radz-at-Han’s prosperity, and even Thiji was of no exception.

Despite Susuna’s words of treating himself, he could not help but hold fast to the Regalia’s tenant of generosity. With the gold he had obtained from the Regalia treasury, he would take a short detour to the Hall of the Radiant Host. Placing the gold within a small pouch made from his Himvat silk, he tossed it to one of the strapping Auri guards posted outside of the office entrance. He gave them a grin and a slight bow of his head before turning to walk away, only for a voice to echo through the halls…

“My Padishah,” spoke the guard in a low tone. Thiji turned back around to notice the pouch being returned to him; his quick reflexes – honed from years of adventuring – allowing him to easily catch it in his right palm. "Ever does the Host appreciate your charity, my lord, but we have been given firm orders to reject any alms you deign to provide us over the course of the sennight."

Thiji arched an inquisitive brow, curious as to whom would issue such a decree. The other guardsman would then speak...

"In case you were wondering, the ones who gave the order were your sire and siress."

The Diamond Sultan scoffed, thinking he could get away with doing one nice thing for the day. They truly intended for him to relax and enjoy himself if his family was going to such lengths. He would shake the thought from his head and wave farewell to the guards, who saluted him in return.

With his detour left moot, Thiji would return to the Main Branch Headquarters, where he would then be met with a large host of men and maidservants who welcomed him with a bow.

"Welcome home, Sultan," they all greeted in unison. The head maid among them was Celuwen, a Wildwood Elezen and cousin of the Diamond Sultan. She greeted him with a smile and gestured to the inner sanctum.

"Dinner will be served shortly," she said in a soft tone. "We will take you to your chambers to prepare your leisure attire."

Thiji would nod his head and make his way inside, wherein he was escorted by the Elezen majordomo. Within his chambers he would enjoy an evening bubble bath, which would soon be followed by the drying of his wintry tresses and a manicure. After a half-bell of freshening up, the Diamond Sultan would emerge from his chambers in his seldom-worn leisure attire, which consisted of an hakama, a veiled turban, Thavnairian sarouel, and babouches. He also sported a blue tulip corsage on his left wrist, and was adorned with jewelry on his ears, ring fingers, neck, and forearms - all fashioned in the likeness of a certain Lady of Bliss.

The reasoning behind him being in such loose garb did not miss the mind of the Diamond Sultan, but he was no less famished for it, and would concern himself with such answers later. Though “later” would translate to “very soon” as he would finally arrive at the dining hall...

As the double doors opened before him, Thiji would be welcomed by the luxurious sight of a bevy of maidservants - all garbed in the Blissful Lehenga which he created some summers ago, all carrying bowls of tangy rolanberries, delectable lassi, and numerous appetizers and desserts one could only find in the Near East. Chandeliers of diamond and silver lined the ceiling, and at the center - where the banquet table would usually be placed - was a divan of mythril blue and white. It was obvious as for whom that was reserved.

As Thiji would cross the threshold, he would hear a woman’s voice coming from the far end...

“Ahh, My Sultan! At last, the dinner bell is come, and you are long overdue for a cossetting of blissful proportions!”

He recognized the voice in an instant, and its source would make itself known as the maidservants parted for her to pass. In a forest green-and-gold lehenga, complimented with a shimmering sari of matching colors, a grinning Angel would appear. He would behold his dear Apsara of Gluttony, Lilina Lina, the youngest sister of Luluma and Lelena.

“I pray that you are ready, my lord, for a grand feast of wonders and words await you! Sit upon the throne you so rightfully deserve, and join us...”

Lilina’s grandiose entrance intrigued Thiji, and he would humor her by approaching the divan and rested comfortably on his side. Once in place, Lilina would snap her fingers, and two maidservants rushed over to remove Thiji’s babouches in order to massage his feet, whilst a third would approach with a bowl of the finest rolanberries, one being fed to the Diamond Sultan as he relaxed in his seat. Lilina would then chuckle as she poured a glass of Winter Lassi for her master...

“Good. You are already enjoying yourself!” Lilina began. “As you should, for the deeds you have done are worthy of all the grandeur and praise that would make the Warriors of Light bashful!”

She would walk over and present the glass to Thiji, who would graciously take it in hand as he was continuing to be fed rolanberries, dipped in a rich amra yoghurt. Lilina would then pace around Thiji, happily sipping away at a glass of “Happiness Juice” - no doubt imported from their new Lopporit friends.

“Through the many years I have served you with unwavering loyalty, my lord, I have ever been curious - hungry - to learn as much as I could about the realm outside of Radz-at-Han; outside of Thavnair; outside the Bounty. And how wide-eyed I was to finally join you in Eorzea, where I would have front-row seats on witnessing your greatness! The knowledge I’ve gained; the sights I have seen; the battles we have fought and won... I wanted more and more, ever desirous to satiate my thirst for knowledge! It is why I have been given the honored title of Gluttony’s Apsara, no?”

Thiji furrowed his brow; the Hyuran maidservant feeding him the rolanberries would back away, and another would take her place, now presenting him with a plate of naan. As she broke off pieces of the leavened bread, she would dip them in a tangy Tzatziki sauce and presented them to Thiji, who accepted them with a pleased countenance.

“And at the height of my discoveries, you helped pique my curiosity ever skyward by teaching me the ways of the Summoner, and gifting me with the knowledge to become a Master of Revelry! That was, without a doubt, the greatest satisfaction, and one I hold so near and dear to my heart... But then there is the matter of you, My Sultan. You, who have mastered both virtue and sin alike! You cling so hard to one side, yet you shun the other! Why, my beautiful lord, do you reject your impulses? The very thing that makes us who we are? You toil so arduously to satisfy the needs of others, at the expense of satisfying yourself! There is no shame in sinning, My Sultan - but I need not remind you of this!”

With another snap of her fingers, the naan-providing maidservant bowed her head and retreated, replaced by several more, presenting various Near Eastern dishes and desserts. Thiji’s eyes went wide in astonishment as the maidservants began feeding him one bite at a time, his mind registering the myriad flavors and textures as Lilina gave a satisfied sigh.

“Would you not consider every flavor, for instance, as a delectable maiden whom fawns over you? They dance to the beat of their own unique drum, each taste attempting to win you over - to gain and garner your most blessed favor! You sell yourself short, my lord, for you are more desirable than you realize! But I shall speak plainly: it is perfectly okay to sin! We, your most loyal Angels, have been granted a sin or virtue which is strongest in us, after all! And with my ever-wanting thirst for knowledge, I was dubbed as the Apsara of Gluttony! And you, My Sultan, should learn to indulge a little more. You deserve a nice little splurge; a long, dream-filled slumber; a feast fit for an emperor... and a true harem, if I would be so bold. Why have one Sultana... when you could have five? For Gluttony is cousin to Greed and Lust, and I embrace this fact with open arms... So why not you? My sisters, my cousins, and all my fellow Angels speak ever, so highly about you and your escapades! I cannot tell you how giddy we were to hear that you were making moves on the Madame of the Sultan’s Gambit - despite being business partners! And then there is the lovely prospect of the masseuse she sent - a Miss Rosary, was it? Such wonderful gems from Thanalan, if I do say so myself! To have both wrapped around your gelid finger would surely cause much turmoil amongst the nobility...”

She giggled and took another sip of her Happiness Juice as Thiji continued eating, enjoying every morsel that entered his mouth, sighing in content with each bite. He took the moment to reflect on his moments with the two women Lilina had mentioned...

“Oh I know, My Sultan Dearest, I know...” cooed Lilina ever, so sweetly, “You do not abuse your powers, which is a trait most admirable. But even you should entertain your vices, for such treasures and pleasures can and would be yours, if you would but seize it as you have seized the realm of high fashion numerous times over!”

Thiji took a brief moment from his feast to drink from his glass – the crisp and cool taste of the ice crystals which danced in his mouth. He savored it for a moment before exhaling, a misty cloud forming from his breath. Lilina giggled as she stepped forward, kneeling before the Diamond Sultan with a smirk.

“In your quest to lord over all that is haute couture, perhaps it did not occur to you that this would also be a form of Gluttony in its own right…?”

The ice blue lord would take another sip of his Winter Lassi, but would freeze in a light gasp, the liquid mere ilms from touching his lips. His eyes shot wide from the realization, having been so ensconced with his passion - his ambition - that, all this time, he was simply another victim. The irony was sweet. Decadent, even. So much so that Lilina let out an airy laugh that one would hear from a girl with a princess complex, another pair of manservants switching out her depleted glass of Happiness Juice for a full glass of "Carrot Cake" Lassi - a secret recipe shared by one of the Pakshee's own head courtesans.

"The shock you bear upon your flawless features says it all, My Sultan! But it is nothing of which to be ashamed! Whether it be intentional or no, all are subject to sin at some point! One cannot rule without a drive - an ambition. You, of course, are no stranger to this - he, who stands unfettered from the sins that would corrupt him, yet holds fast to virtue that he misses out on the finer things in life - the finer things we’ve provided to the people of Etheirys! Though you may turn heads were you to embrace a more daring side, none would indict you for wanting to enjoy life just a tad more! After all... you are feasting like the Sultan you have become! And why stop there? Thus do I bid you, My Sultan: give the order to your ever-waiting subjects, duty-bound to fulfill you every whim!”

A simple request he would easily oblige. Thiji would set his glass down on a saucer presented by one of the maidservants, and would bring his hands together twice. In a near instant, the room was filled with ribbons of vivid colors, and the familiar sounds of Near Eastern strings and drums began to ring throughout the dining hall. The Diamond Sultan would be welcomed by the scenery of many of his Hannish maidservants in clothing of his own make, performing a traditional Kreigstanz, with alluring undulations mixed in to please their lord and master.

Lilina laughed with joy as the revelries would persist through the evening bells; much feasting, dancing, and the clatter of gold and jewelry - all in honor of their beloved Diamond Sultan. It was a party of such excess pleasures that would have brought a certain city-state in a different shard to shame - and Thiji was enjoying every second of it. Though sadly, all good things must come to an end, and as the jubilant feast would die down, midnight would fall upon the Bounty, and Thiji would be fast asleep in his divan, a satisfied smile upon his face. The bountiful banquet in which he indulged exhausted him, but he would no doubt feel utter fulfillment when next he rose. Lilina quietly ordered the entourage to clear and clean the dining hall as she removed her Shawl of Gluttony and placed it atop Thiji’s reclined form, granting him a modicum of warmth as he slept.

“For opening the door and letting in your indulgences, you’ve earned - nay - you deserve this, My Sultan...” she whispered softly into his ear. “As you always say: pleasant and pleasurable dreams...”

The Angel bowed low for her Sultan as a sign of respect, and would quietly vacate the dining hall, that the merchant-lord would rest undisturbed...

#thiji higuri #Higuri Regalia #Angels' Time #Lalafell #lalafell master race #lalashell #FFXIV #ffxiv rp #balmung rp #ffxiv balmung #the fourteen apsaras #short story

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mythriteshah · 2 years

Text

Heartfelt Humility

A bell had passed after Susuna had spoken with the Diamond Sultan. With the Servants’ Lounge adequately sealed, there was no need to fear the disclosure of their most sacred treasury. Gazing upon his right hand he would finally notice the gold he had grasped during his time in the hidden chamber, as Susuna’s words echoed in his mind:

“It’s okay to be greedy. It’s okay to indulge. It’s okay to want…”

Greed is good, he thought. Very good. Why shouldn’t a noble such as Thiji have a little fun with his vices? With a simper, he placed the gold in his pocket and returned to his chambers. He would, however, find his path blocked by a Lalafellin maiden with her head bowed lowly, her brown-and-pale blonde hair framing her masked visage.

She would slowly remove the mask from the veil which covered her head, her gaze still fixed to the floor. This was the Apsara of Humility, Lelena Lena, and she embraced well her role as she kept her head low and welcomed her lord with a warm smile.

“Good afternoon, My Sultan,” she said as she lifted her gaze to meet Thiji’s. Her voice was soft and genuine, as though she had seen a friend who has been dearly missed. Lelena would take a few paces, stopping mere ilms before the Diamond Sultan. With her gaze lowered once more and hands folded at the waist, she would continue.

“My cousins may have already spoken their piece to you and imparted unto you their wisdom, but I would have words of my own to give…”

Lelena took one of Thiji’s hands into hers, gazing up into his ice blue-and-silver eyes. His features softened as he gave his Angel his undivided attention.

“How is it that a man as incredible as you can be capable of achieving so much within his youth, unfettered by the temptations of the ego? That a Sultan so benevolent can be the shining bastion of generosity, and create an empire that emulates those same tenants? The answer is as clear as the blue Thavnairian sky: you are humble to a fault, my beautiful lord. Even in your selflessness and acts of kindness, you are performing the obligations of the righteous noble, keeping the realm smiling and singing your praises. Etheirys is blessed to have you, My Sultan; we Angels are a byproduct of your continued success; we are an extension of your heart and will. Any of my sisters, cousins, or fellow Angels would happily agree that they are honored to serve under your wintry wings. I will even be so bold as to admit that we are prideful in this regard!”

Thiji appreciated Lelena’s heartfelt confession. Save for Sesena, she was the other Angel who was incredibly close to the Diamond Sultan during their time establishing themselves in the Sagolii Desert. It was there – upon the sea of sand - they discovered their Mhachi heritage through Queen Chichibi, and together they would set themselves down the path of the Black Mage.

“I have always enjoyed our talks, Lord Thiji,” Lelena commented, “and the pleasure of your company has ever been the highlights of my day. Just by being present, you bring joy and tranquility to most everyone around you. The smiles you bring; the lives you enliven; the days you brighten – no one would deny you the amount of prestige and pride you should feel, and yet… you do not. It does not consume you. You remain grounded in your efforts, accepting the fulfillment of your duties as its own reward. It is a very attractive trait that many nobles could only dream of obtaining, and it is a trait that is not gained overnight. Recall our humble beginnings in the Aldenard Branch, when our chain was first being created. You were already preparing your grand initiatives to give back to the realm, with the tiny giveaways of wind-up automatons. And then the creation of the Othard Branch completed our connections of the Three Great Continents, where you selflessly granted adventurers and weary locals a means of rest and relaxation – without them fearing payment, no less. The Mythrite Suites remains well-kept and in pristine condition by the grace of your leadership alone. And though they shower you with gifts and coin, you reject such offers, accepting naught but a simple ‘thank you’. Such humility brings a tear to my eye, and would make any woman proud to be your Sultana… Forgive me for touching on so sensitive a topic.”

The Diamond Sultan disregarded the statement with a light shake of his head, taking no offense to it whatsoever… he was inured to solitude at this point, after all…

“Here you stand, summers later, still the amazing man you were before you were Prince. Your Power and your Beauty grew in time, along with your influence and status. And even at your zenith – when you’re looking down at the masses of the smallfolk and lesser nobles – you still deem yourself no better than the honest artisan seeking to make ends meet. Remember this, My Sultan: you are a good man – a graceful peacock of brilliant blue and white, preening his feathers proudly, leaving all who gaze upon your wintry down in awe. But you do not flaunt your beauty. It comes naturally, and all who are attracted to you is but a passive result. You are humble. Solemn. Everyone who gazes upon you witnesses this truth for themselves. Remember your deeds, My Sultan, and take the time to appreciate all that you’ve done… And that you still continue to do for Etheirys.”

Lelena would release his hands from her grip and leave Thiji after a gentle bow, departing with quiet footsteps. Before she would completely exit the foyer, Lelena looked over her shoulder to give her Sultan one last genuine smile until finally donning her mask and vacated the area. The day was nearing its end, but there were still plenty more Angels to speak their minds to the Diamond Sultan. With some precious daylight remaining, Thiji would decide to spend the waning bells clearing his mind with a stroll.

#thiji higuri #Higuri Regalia #Angels' Time #Lalafell #lalafell master race #lalashell #thavnairian #radz at han #the fourteen apsaras

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mythriteshah · 2 years

Text

A Petty Sin

The sun had long reached its peak by the time the Diamond Sultan would rise from his mid-morning nap, suggested by his Chief Analytics Officer. It would be around three bells past noon, and Lord Thiji was all the more content from the resulting slumber.

With the morning now gone, Thiji would take this time to make his rounds. With some freshening up here and there, and a good stretch routine, he donned his turban and his signature sherwani and dupatta, and prepared to set off. He would get within ilms of the doors before he would sense a presence on the other side.

Thiji paused for a moment, thinking to himself as to whom could possibly be awaiting him. With his quick wit, he had already deduced that, since Sesena and Sosona have already visited him during Angels’ Time, there was only one other sibling from their trio.

Opening the doors, the presence would finally be revealed as none other than the money-loving Apsara of Greed herself - Susuna Suna, garbed in the very gown for which she was anointed.

With a sly grin, she greeted her master - a cup of Thavnairian wine in her right hand.

“Afternoon, My Sultan...” she giggled in a sultry tone. “Shall we away? I’ve much and more I wish to impart unto you!”

Whether she was playing into the “sexy heel” role or just embracing her title to the fullest was left to speculation, but Thiji would roll his eyes in response, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. Though having little say in the matter, the pleasure of her company was always a welcome one, and he would exit his chambers before beginning their walk around the Main Branch Headquarters.

Walking through the halls of blue and silver, Susuna gestured broadly at the architecture, and the resplendence of the palace-like Main Branch, taking long sips of her wine as she did. Their stroll would end at the Servants’ Lounge, and with a snap of her fingers, the doors would open themselves, as if on cue, revealing the lounge and the air of decadence that permeated from it. With its waterfalls of gil, divans, gloriously-woven tapestries, and statues of well-dressed maid and manservants, it was clear as day that the Chief Financial Officer wasted no expense making the servants of the Regalia feel like nobility in their own right.

They would approach the portrait of Mamai sor Mai, and after a brief moment to pay respects to the fallen angel, Susuna would snap her fingers once more, the doors (somehow) closing shut, and sealed with some magical incantation. With the only occupants within the lounge being those two, they turned back to the massive portrait of Lady Mamai, and with a soft hand upon the painting, Susuna heaved a light sigh and whispered,

“We miss you, dear sister...”

A brief moment later and the portrait would suddenly glow in a pinkish light; a tessellating barrier appeared briefly before shattering, lifting some sort of magical seal that would allow Susuna and Thiji passage. Phasing through the painting, they would come to a small corridor with a raised dais. Stepping upon it, a magical band would form around them, and they would eventually find themselves transported to an underground chamber. Within was a sight most breathtaking: mounds upon mouns of gold and jewelry; sconces adorned in mythril statues of matanga spewing forth water from their nostrils, creating silvery-blue ponds strewn throughout the massive room; paintings and murals of dancing maidens locked in time, garbed in attire never-before-seen - no doubt made from the minds of the Regalia. At the center of this massive chamber was a small staircase which led to a throne of blue and gold, encrusted with numerous gems and an owl with wings outspread ornamented the top.

Thiji closed his eyes and visualized this scene. He had been here before, but he recalled it being less... gilded. Accompanied by Nyra and his original six maidservants, these would be the founding members of what would eventually become known as Thiji’s Angels.

He would reminisce to the moment he sat upon that very throne when he was but a prince; this room was the hidden treasury of the Higuri Regalia, sought after by hunters of riches and jealous nobles alike, but has been a well-kept secret and ever more difficult to access as time went on. As the Regalia’s CFO, Susuna has put her greed to good use, maintaining its upkeep throughout the moons.

It was indeed a sight to behold, as Susuna gestured broadly once more before her Sultan, a huge grin on her face as she heaved a sigh of ecstasy.

“Drink it in, My Sultan,” she began. “Drink in the gold; the riches; the sights and sounds of coin... and give in to it. For so long now have you shared the Regalia’s riches with the people of Etheirys, and it is no small feat to do so besides! Folks are beginning to wonder how you could be so generous and so giving, yet still remain so opulent and wealthy! Of course, they are great fools to underestimate the Diamond Sultan and his most esteemed entourage! But I only came here to partially wax financial. It is Angels’ Time, and you, My Sultan, shall heed my words.”

With a graceful twirl of her heel, Susuna led Thiji to one of the Matanga fountains that were actually spewing forth gold from its snout, gesturing to the Diamond Sultan to reach out to it. He would close his eyes and listen to the sound of the gold clinking to the floor...

“Listen well, My Sultan, to the beautiful symphony of cascading coin... Feel the opulence flowing into your hand and to the streams below... How easy it is to grasp! Witness the color of gold engulfing your vision, and know what it means to truly bask in your radiant riches! And of course... let us not forget of the maidens you could have at your beck and call...!”

She would point to the murals of the cavorting maidens, staring down the Diamond Sultan as though they were living, breathing entities.

“It’s okay to indulge once in a while, Lord Thiji! You, who has mastered sins and virtues both, would know better than any that one cannot thrive without the other! Yes, you are charitable, but you harbor and hold in your greed as though it were a primal, shackled by Allagan machinations for eons, yearning for a release that may never come! Unleash it, My Sultan! Don’t bottle it up so! Dive into the mountains of gold and buy out a pillow house; make the courtesans fawn and obsess over you, desperately seeking just one night with so rich and powerful a man! Embrace the greed I know you’ve locked deep down! Enjoy what it’s like to sin... just for a moment or two. Or three! After all, my big sister helped you get some well-needed and well-deserved extra sleep! Why not treat yourself this time?”

Drinking the last of her wine, she leaned against the nearby statue, folding her free arm across her chest as she beamed at Lord Thiji, her expression now soft and more genuine...

“We want to see you live a little more, My Sultan. Forget about the people and the populace, if only for a while. If you keep up your charity and generosity, your pretty, snowy, silver-white hair will give way to gray strands, and by then it will already be too late! You’ll feel great if you just opened the cage and let your greed loose! See where it could take you! The Syndicate has nothing on us at this point; it’s time that you gave yourself some love!”

The Diamond Sultan, having absorbed all that there was to offer from Susuna, simply nodded in response, turning to exit the treasury. As he would be mere fulms away from the doors, Susuna would give him some parting words:

“It’s okay to be greedy... It’s okay to indulge... It’s okay to want... It is only a petty sin, My dearest Sultan.”

The doors would slowly close behind Thiji as he would vacate the treasury, leaving Susuna to bask in the chambers’ riches in solitude.

#thiji higuri #Higuri Regalia #Angels' Time #Lalafell #lalafell master race #the fourteen apsaras #greed

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