Willow

don't dive in

[honestlywillow-blog]

isabellasbyline:

“Is that so?” Isabella repeated, brow raised in interest. That was certainly… unique. It sounded a little like hazing. “Is that going to go over well? I could’ve sworn I saw some of New York’s finest wandering around.” Isabella could only hope some idiot would literally light their ass on fire - what a brilliant feature for the website. She contemplated the notion of standing next to the pit with her camera-phone all night, but the food and the dance floor looked positively magnetic. 

“If that’s the case, I think we’re both safe,” she smiled, nodding down to her own pumps. “Tell me all of the food is edible, though, ‘cause it looks divine.” It would be hell to track down the name of the caterer, but possibly worth it for such a gorgeous display. “I’m Isabella, by the way.”

“About as well as you might imagine.” Willow shrugged, their eyes falling to take in the designer shoes. Though Willow had only a passing interest designer items they knew when they were looking at something truly special. “Those are gorgeous.” Willow nodded their approval with a smile. 

“Willow.” The fey turned and reached out to shake the woman’s hand with a firm grip. “And yes, everything is edible and as good as it looks. Just make sure to save room for dessert.”

“So what do you do when you aren’t crashing the parties of New York’s elite, Isabella?” Willow asked with genuine curiosity filling the question. 

[honestlywillow-blog]

seelieshield:

The best part of Cobalt’s Imbolc never had anything to do with the parties hosted or the people he talked to throughout the night. The party was work, simple enough, but the holiday was still a joyful event, especially the hours before and after dedicated to his family, to his wife. He watched Willow prepare for the party knowing that there was no one who could match their beauty, went to the party knowing that his wife was the most stunning person there. Still, they had their own work to do. It always made it all the better when they had their small moments to themselves.

He had waited till he saw that Willow had stopped talking to someone, probably a prospective lead -he never asked more than that, they would tell them if they wanted to- before he caught their hand and held it in his own, bringing it up to his lips softly as Willow turned around.

“Let’s just say that I was watching you and decided that I couldn’t go another moment without dancing with you,” he whispered in their ear, wrapping his other arm around her waist.

The flames danced in Willow’s eyes, reflecting the warmth there that never failed to melt Cobalt, setting him instantly at ease. The stiff posturing which he’d affected all evening suddenly slipped away and he finally showed signs of enjoyment the longer they spent wrapped in his arms.

Willow moved in closer, their free hand coming up to rest on Cobalt’s chest. The couple moved gracefully onto the dance floor in well practiced movements. It was with gentle butterflies in Willow’s chest, and a smile on their lips that they followed Cobalt’s lead; even after all these years he still managed to make Willow feel like they were the only person in a crowded room.

“I’m surprised you found a quiet moment.” Willow teased, playful. They could feel the tension easing away from their partner’s body under their thin fingers. Both of them worked too much, throwing their entire self into any given task, as evidenced by the fact that both had considered the party tonight more as a job than an enjoyable event. Despite this, Willow was pleased they had managed a moment alone together. 

“I have something for you.” They smiled up, looking into Cobalt’s dark eyes. “A gift. Well, two really. Couldn’t help myself, wanted to start the year of right.” 

[honestlywillow-blog]

hazyhazel:

“So it was the Unseelie who did the decorating?” she said, shaking her head. Leave it to Tiger to claim credit on behalf of King Adare. “I suppose I should have figured that out, based on where we are and all, but I was kind of hoping it was a collaboration. That’s what tonight’s all about, isn’t it?” 

The older Seelies had more wariness than she felt at being in Unseelie territory, their prejudice running deeper than her own. Oh, she’d been taught that Seelie and Unseelie didn’t truly mingle, that humans were playthings, all the rhetoric, but she’d also been raised by humans who believed in putting old prejudices behind them. The Seelie had taken her in when her mother died and she was forever grateful to them and the Seelie court, they had her loyalty, but she still hoped the tense truce could become something more permanent. How else will I ever find out more about my real parents? 

Linking her arm with Willow’s, Hazel steered both of them toward the bar. “My gift to you tonight is going to be to keep you from worrying too much. What’ll you have to drink?”

Willow shrugged. Perhaps there had been collaboration between the courts for tonight’s decorations, but Willow highly doubted the Unseelie would have missed the opportunity to show off, taking it beyond what might have been agreed upon. Hazel’s optimism was refreshing, her youth incredible to behold in a way, it was too bad the girl had to have been raised by humans.

Willow allowed themself to be steered towards the bar, arms linked with the youngest Seelie fey. A laugh bubbled up on Willow’s lips. “That would be quite the accomplishment, my dear.” They scanned the options displayed behind the bar, lips pursed. “I’ll take a mead, please. Something appropriate for the occasion.” 

Willow turned towards Hazel. “Any hopes for this new year?”

[isabellasbyline]

when: 10.50 pm where: capitale, imbolc who: open to all

In a $7 dress expertly paired with $300 shoes, Isabella double-checked the password she needed to get into, in the words of Taylor the woo-girl from the mailroom, a totally poppin’ party. Slipping her phone in her clutch as she got up to the front of the line, she flashed the guy at the door a confident smile, paired with the phrase Wrought and Rotten.

Stepping inside, she confirmed that the event was absolutely worth squeezing into her favorite little black dress for. Sexy and soaked in red, the crowd seemed to thrum with activity, excitement, and a little something she couldn’t quite place her finger on. That was to say nothing of the tantalizing assortment of food and alcohol lined up against the back table. “God, can you believe that actually worked?” she muttered to a nearby party-goer, unable to take her eyes away from the decor. “Wild. Like, are we at all concerned this might be a Jonestown situation?”

[honestlywillow-blog]

Willow had been watching the door, not waiting for anyone in particular, simply watching to see who arrived together, and who left together. That human’s could find their way into the party of the season was of no concern to Willow. There was little harm they could do tonight, and any stories that left this hall would be brushed off as a good high.

The young woman who slipped in the door was not immediately familiar to Willow, which likely meant a possible player for the Unseelie, but once the woman spoke Willow realized this was not correct.

“Incredible, isn’t it?” Willow agreed, playing along with innocence and wonder. “I’ve been told we’re meant to jump over a fire, but I’m not sure I could manage in these heels. Maybe that’s the new kool-aid?”

[honestlywillow-blog]

When: Feb 1, 2018 Where: Capitale  Who: Cobalt

To say it had been a long night would be an understatement, that is not to say that Willow had not enjoyed themself. On the contrary it had been an almost two hours of non-stop conversation with Seelie and Unseelie alike, rubbing elbows and putting in necessary face time with possible leads and connections in the new year.

They had hardly seen Cobalt since leaving his side at their arrival, both unable to leave their duties at the door. Aside from quick drag of fingers across their back, or a wordless passing of a drink from their husband, Willow had been on their own for most of the evening. So when the strong fingers slipped into their own Willow simply gave a gentle squeeze back before starting to pull away intending to visit the VIP lounge next. But they were held in place, a soft “Oh.” of surprise lighting their face.

“Isn’t this a pleasant surprise.” Willow smiled, stepping closer to their husband.

[hazyhazel]

When: February 1 Where: Capitale OPEN

Hazel loved a good party, even if this one was somewhat fancier than what she was used typically used to. Despite years of knowing she belonged in the fey world, this all seemed a bit to fantastical to be real. Even the light danced as the movement of air made the flames shiver. She was absolutely certain they were violating fire codes, but she didn’t care at all. 

“I don’t know who’s in charge of the decorating committee, but they deserve a raise. This is beautiful, don’t you think?” she said, smiling. It was nice to see everyone together and getting along, hopefully that would last. 

[honestlywillow-blog]

Willow had left Cobalt’s side shortly after entering the grand hall. Imbolc celebrations were always a beautiful event, the start of a new year a time for rebirth, and also public displays of the truce between courts, no matter how tense. Willow had been keeping to themself for a short time, taking in the fey around them, watching in the dim lights for signs of... anything.

Willow turned to look at the young fey who had sidled up next to them, the candles reflecting in Hazel’s wide eyes. Willow smiled. “Quite.” they agreed. “A chance for our friends to give us an impressive show.” And it was impressive, the lengths the Unseelie had gone to create such a lavish setting. 

[daveyventura-blog]

Davey Ventura, Cobalt Fairchild and Willow Fairbank; a moodboard

too-loud footsteps from the apartment upstairs. chatting in the hallway until you’re invited in for dinner. sharing leftovers. sharing your gum-chewing habit. being dragged downstairs to throw a ball around. a pat on the shoulder. a hand ruffling your hair. sunny smiles. a shoulder to cry on. careful not to care too much. only one of you is mortal.

[hyacinthieum0-blog]

Aesthetic, please?

ILY <3

New buds, little seedlings — trying. Trying again. Downy soft cottonwood covering thorns. Calm and swirling like the steam off tea. Just as warm. Just as dangerous. Water can wear through stone if you pour enough. Dark eyes. Dark secrets? Dark heart? The twang of a baby’s laugh. Left wanting. ( You would do almost anything, wouldn’t you? ) Wanting. Waiting. Wanting more; waiting more.

[honestlywillow-blog]

iambecomcdeath:

WHAT ARE YOUR MUSE’S AESTHETICS?

BOLD ANY WHICH APPLY TO YOUR MUSE. ITALICIZE WHAT THEY LIKE. REPOST OR REBLOG FEEL FREE TO ADD TO THE LIST

fire. ice. water. air. earth. light. darkness. wind. waves. lightning. claws. fangs. wings. gold. diamonds. silver. steel. leaves. grass. trees. roses. lilies. daises. metal. iron. rust. rain. snow. lace. silk. cotton. sun. moon. stars. blood. dirt. mud. sugar. salt. lavender. foxglove. glass. wood. paper. wool. fur. smoke. ash. ocean. bruises. scars. spices. paint. charcoal. wine. hard liquor. sweat. dust. bare feet. canine. feline. coffee. tea. books. scratches. petals. thorns. hay. glitter. heat. warmth. cold. steam. frost. candles. sword. dagger. staff. arrow. hammer. shield. gun. spikes. sand. rocks. roots. feathers. pearls. rubies. sapphires. emeralds. herbs. clay. stone. brick. lions. wolves. foxes. ravens. baby animals. mountains. mirrors. surfboards. dream-catchers. leather. black. white. red. orange. yellow. green. blue. purple. pink.

[zinniathelostgirl]

                                                              [ zinnia & willow ]

@honestlywillow

[honestlywillow-blog]

hibiscus, orange blossom, carnation

Hibiscus:Did you ever play an instrument? If so what?

(Answered Here)

Orange Blossom:If you could pick the gender and appearance of your child, would you?

(Answered Here)

Carnation:If I handed you a concert ticket right now, who would you want to be the performer?

Il Trovetor is playing at The Met again this season. Does that count?

[honestlywillow-blog]

Queen Anne's Lace and Dandelion

Queen Anne's Lace:Would you rather carve pumpkins or wrap presents?

Don’t make me choose! I love them both so much, I really do. I guess I’ll go with wrapping presents, there’s something magical about the holidays.

Dandelion:Do you think you're important?

In the grand scheme of the world? No. 

To those I consider family? Yes.

[honestlywillow-blog]

5, 10, 15

5. How do they dress? What styles, colors, accessories, and other possessions do they favor? Why?

(Answered Here)

10. What energizes and drains them most?

(Answered Here)

15. What kind of inner life do they have — rich and imaginative? Calculating and practical? Full of doubts and fears? Does it find any sort of outlet in their lives?

Willow’s inner thoughts are an endless churn of all of the above. With their wealth of experience they have a rich imagination they enjoy letting run wild as they lay in bed at night, trying to fall asleep. This helps to keep the fears they have at bay. Worries that what they want most of all is unattainable, either logistically or biologically, that they’ll lose Cobalt along the way, that in risking everything they will come out with nothing. But most often Willow is ruthless, considering all the roads before them and pressing forward with little distraction.

[honestlywillow-blog]

10, 14, 23, 31, 38

10. What energizes and drains them most?

(Answered Here)

14. What do they care deeply about? What kind of loyalties, commitments, moral codes, life philosophies, passions, callings, or spirituality and faith do they have? How do these tend to be expressed?

Honesty. It is Willow’s golden rule. Half truths and misleading answers have their place in Seelie court, Willow is not naive to this, however behind closed doors, in the safety of family -- blood and chosen -- there should be no secrets. Willow still holds animosity in their heart towards their parents for their lies now years in the past.

Aside from this, Willow cares about knowledge, gained through books or experience. They want to know and experience everything they can. Parenthood is one experience Willow did not ever believe they would be suited for on their own, but in Cobalt they have found someone they trust enough to help them raise a child. With it now an option, and confident that together they could raise a child in a loving home, Willow has found this passion growing in their heart through the past decade or more. 

23. How do they respond to difficult social moments? What makes them consider a social situation difficult?

Willow is quiet adept socially. Very little makes them flustered or uncomfortable. They are observant and intuitive, and Willow often knows just what to say to soothe a tense moment, or to toy with a target. Difficulties most often arise when Willow has been stretched beyond their limit. Short on sleep, short on time alone, short on patience, they can snap or come across as blunt simply to leave a social situation.

31. Is there anything that counts as a “dealbreaker” for them, positively or negatively? What makes things go smoothly, and what spoils an activity or ruins their day? Why?

(Answered Here)

38. Is there anything they wish they could change about their worldview or thought processes? What, and why?

Willow often has a difficult time letting something go, an idea, a grudge, sentimental trinkets gathered through the years. If they could find a way to relax more and stop holding onto things Willow would be a happier and more balanced fey.

[honestlywillow-blog]

5, 17, 31

5. How do they dress? What styles, colors, accessories, and other possessions do they favor? Why?

Willow’s style is simple and classic, but with their own unique twist; they aren’t afraid of wearing something a little off beat. For work they might wear a classic cropped black pant and blazer combo, but instead of a white button down it might be mint, with a studded collar and small cats printed across the fabric. In the spring and summer Willow loves lace cotton sundresses and large brimmed hats. At home though, willow is leggings and oversize sweaters or sometimes just one of Cobalt’s button downs. Bright and colorful accents, or a bold pattern is not uncommon between the typical NYC black pants and jacket or crew neck sweater. 

17. Are they more shaped by nature or nurture — who they are, or what has happened to them? How have these shaped who they’ve become as a person?

Nurture. Willow knows their life would have been different if their parents had not attempted to keep up the facade of the perfect family. It is the people in our lives that shape who we are, and Willow had a strange start to life. Willow was born curious, thirsty for knowledge and determined enough to seek it out when the curiosity burned too strong, but it is their parent’s lies that taught Willow the value of honesty.

31. Is there anything that counts as a “dealbreaker” for them, positively or negatively? What makes things go smoothly, and what spoils an activity or ruins their day? Why?

(Answered Here)

[honestlywillow-blog]

4, 27, 29

4. What is their size and build? How does it influence how they use their body, if it does?

Willow is a runner, slim with an athletic build, and of average height. It is their comparatively small stature that Willow first sought out training for close combat, wanting to ensure they would be able to defend themself better if there were any issues at the casino or something went south while on missions for the Seelie court.

27. What do they strongly like and dislike, in any category? Why?

Likes...Gin and tonic.

Dislikes... Being out of gin.

(More Here)

29. What kind of activities, interests, and hobbies do they have? What significance and impact do these have in their lives, both positive and negative?

Willow is eternally curious and has explored a wide range of hobbies and interests through the years. Their favorites have been... anything musical or artistic, having learned both the harp and the piano, and taken several art classes through the decades. They have enjoyed exploring the changing philosophical theories that have come into popularity through the years. They have long enjoyed attending the world class opera every season at the Met, and having taken various dance classes they also enjoy the ballet from time to time as well. Rock climbing, mountain biking, triathlons, skiing, and ping pong have all held Willow’s attention through the years as well.

In short, Willow is curious and will rarely say no to some new adventure or intellectual pursuit. 

[honestlywillow-blog]

27, 31, 36, 10

27. What do they strongly like and dislike, in any category? Why?

Willow likes... warm spring days, walks in central park, cats, iced coffee, tiny baby shoes, a strong hug filled with everything words can’t say, Cobalt’s head in their lap as Seinfeld plays on TV and they both pretend there is no animosity hanging between them.

Willow dislikes... bitter coffee gone cold and forgotten in the microwave, cold and biting rain, elephants hiding in the corner of a room, people who sing with headphones on the subway, cleaning the litter box.

31. Is there anything that counts as a “dealbreaker” for them, positively or negatively? What makes things go smoothly, and what spoils an activity or ruins their day? Why?

Trust is obviously a major factor is Willow’s life. With all the lies from their parents in their youth, Willow has little tolerance for dishonesty from those they consider family.

36. How much do they rely on their minds and intellect, versus other approaches like relying on instinct, intuition, faith and spirituality, or emotions? What is their opinion on this?

Willow is a logical individual, well read and with enough life experience to know how to proceed in most situations. However, Willow is not so proud as to not as for advice or help from those they know have more knowledge than themself. Willow also trusts the power that flows from their court. This connection is deep in their soul and when all else fails Willow looks here for guidance.

10. What energizes and drains them most?

Willow loves their jobs, watching the coming and goings of others, engaging in conversations with near strangers, finding similarities between themself and the unseelie, and reporting back to Sorrel. It is exciting, engaging, interesting, and draining. As much as Willow enjoys this work they need to recharge their batteries at the end of each day at home. Willow gains their energy from quiet nights at home, reading, enjoying easy conversation over a nightcap with Cobalt. Time alone is essential to keeping Willow happy and productive.