"Your birth occurred in the month of May."

Those words had sealed the deal. Startled and made suspicious by my insight the little realtor had released a torrent of communication that was more than slightly overwhelming.

She had been quite the little nonbeliever when I explained further, "You were born under the star Naturalis for I can sense its strong influence upon you."

It was only when I elaborated: "You're naturally fun-loving, adventuresome, and incredibly imaginative. Although you suffer from an obsessive outlook on life that allows you to be easily frustrated when you don't get your way and naturally rebellious of all authority figures." My amusement probably painted my words as I finished, "Which most undoubtedly gets you in a good deal of trouble."

Even then, the cynical side of her nature influenced her as she argued, "Anybody who knows a little bit 'bout me coulda figured that out."

"Yes, but could they also know that you're an extremely tactile person who relies on the physical touch to fully explore your world? That, you react poorly to any attempts to correct, reform, or change your basic habits? That your spontaniety is as natural as is breathing? That you maintain a desperate desire to be fully independent to the point where you..." My voice most assuredly softened as I entered into dangerous territory, "shun any real connections or relationships for fear of dependency?"

She'd stopped talking. I considered this a victory as I continued, "I'm good at what I do, Miss Shantalaine. I can pinpoint the week of your birth, the shape of the stars upon you despite your lack of wordly connection to RhyDin, for the stars of your world are but reflections of the same."

"What's my birthday then?"

"May, somewhere between the eleventh and the eighteenth."

"It's the twelfth," And then she asked the question I had become most familiar with, "Ye can tell me my future?"

And I disassembled, "No. Not exactly. I can simply explain the celestial influences upon your life that help shape who you are."


Later, after we had settled the terms of my lease and she had shown me to my offices, she was a tad subdued when she asked me for advice.

Yet, I gave it to her as was my calling:

"Try to take matters a bit more seriously if you wish others to do the same in regard to you. At the same time, never give up your natural and instinctive approach to life, it is after all, quite charming."

Was it fair to already know that we would work well together? For being a child of the Star Originalis meant good work relations with one of her star's nature. We were destined to maintain a gratifying relationship based on our ability to simply accept each other's bizarre and unusual temperaments.


(*Credit goes to Gary Goldschneider's Personology Guide)

Natasha asked the question I was only slightly prepared to answer, "What kind of shop? I do adore shopping..."

"I read people. The influence of the stars upon them, in fact." Offering a look, "It is not traditional shopping really."

"Ohh, an oracle! A thrilled tone in her voice startled me, along withher knowledge, my gaze unfocusing slightly as I instinctively sought a read of my newfound companion.

His question followed, "You read people? Read them like...books?"

My blue gaze bled black, leaving flecks of the lighter hued color dancing upon their depths like a starry overcast sky. I was searching for a read upon Natasha when a dizzying wave washed over me. Instantly a headache formed and I dropped my attention, bringing up two delicate boned fingers to gently massage my furrowed brow, "Indeed. I do read people like books. Those that were born beneath the stars that is." I explained offering him a look.

His cinnamon scent enveloped me as he adroitly offered his massaging fingertips and advice, "You'll find those few and far between in these lands, Miss Van Blaudin."

At Natasha's eagerly fascinated look I felt compelled to share what I had gained even as she asked, "Can you adjust your readings for varying starcharts?"

"Born under the star Balencia," I murmured, more to myself, as the brief read of Natasha had quite nearly overwhelmed me. "You're birthday falls within the first week of August." A flutter of my lashes to dispel the edges of the headache that threatened to distract me as I offered Aukai a half-smile, "Indeed, though the influence of the stars are not limited to the realm in which you were born. If you were actually born that is."

To prove my point I explained what I had seen to Natasha: "You're very devoted, Natasha and incredibly trustworthy. When you give your word it is solid and binding." The weight of the stars demanding that I share what little I was able to gather, "You're incredibly physical in nature." If I were the type to blush I am certain I would as the very sensual earthy side to her physicality was clearly evident.

"Unfortunately, I was not." Aukai said as though the words pained him, responding to my statement about birth. With a quickness that was surprising he brushed a strand of hair from my face and tucked it behind my ear.

Natasha chuckled and admonished, "Kai dear, don't frighten the girl until she's done. I want to trade secrets with her later."

I was not bothered by his touch as it was a surprisingly gentle maneuver and I sensed a cover for some deeper emotion. While I might not be able to follow his star's path to understanding, it did not change my ability to read a person. Distracted I conveyed the rest of the brief reading to Natasha with less tact than I would normally employ, "You have a tendency toward masochism, which most undoubtedly relates to depression if left untethered."

Natasha clapped a little, obivously unbothered by such a statement on her person, "Do you read auras as well Tasha?"

"I do not intend to frighten, Natasha. You know that better than most." Aukai grinned at his companion, "And I doubt Miss Van Blaudin will be willing to share aspects of others who she may have read." His gaze found me with intense scrutiny, "You don't seem like the kiss and tell type."

"Oh hush. I meant trade secrets not client confidences. You know better than most what my line of business is Dear. "

I remained apart from their banter but responded to her question, "I do, to some degree, but could not in such a press of people." Taking note of the sudden busier Inn. I nodded at Aukai's prompting as he did indeed strike near the truth of the matter. "I would be more than willing to conduct such activity in my offices, and all business there remains of the strictest confidence."

"Beautiful. We'll have to make time to speak then Tasha, sweet."


And with a flush of pleasure I realized I had booked my first client.

--adapted from liveplay

~Draxcilian Khaul~


A client arrived in my office this afternoon. He was shrouded against the light and immediately stole the flickering flames from my candles. Avoiding my large picture window he chose a seat and simply looked at me.

I could not avoid the pain I felt radiating from him. His was an aching loneliness, a desperate searching. He was without his soul.

And yet I felt another essence fighting beneath the blanket of his need. It was as if he were dual persons. I tried to warn him about this but he wanted to hear only of the possible return of his love.

I searched the stars and I discovered that much as he was dually bound there were two women fighting to return to him. Their love differed as greatly as their star's paths did, but they sought him fiercely.

He paid handsomely for my sight and left before I could warn him.

His was a frightening path and I saw death looming on the horizon.

The mists wrapped about me as intimately as an intended lover and despite my application of an umbrella it was a damp I could not avoid. As I made my way up the stairs to my loft I gave no hint of the exhaustion that had edged my steps along the way. Stoicism was my mistress and I worked her well.

To be viewed as vulnerable in the streets of Rhy'Din was to invite trouble, though I had left the Inn that night secure in the knowledge that I would remain unaccosted. There was something about the vivid redhead's parting benediction that had promised me a safe trip home. In my left hand I held a brown paper bag that contained a baguette (the bakery I had passed was giving away free bread this evening) and a bottle of my favorite cabernet from the wine shop that had been marked down a ridiculous amount on this one day for this one hour. My mind drifted back to Euriya's lovely companion and I wondered at the power I had sensed within her. Clover was quite obviously exceptional.

Sliding my key within the door I stepped within my flat and was delighted by the sweet mewl of my darling Sir. As he twined about my ankles I carefully closed the door behind me. Tension was building along my shoulders and I knew without having to internally seek for answers that I was unaccountably aware of the red book that adorned the table near my favorite windowseat. I had moved it away from my bed. My fingers burning to part the covers. Resistance had been difficult, but I had managed.

Putting away my lucky treasures, I fixed Sir his plate and wondered at the outcome of the evening. Still no Boreas. Though we had made no promises, owed no explanations, he had still made a point to let me know that business would keep him away for a short time. Yet, still I ghosted amongst the patrons of the Red Dragon. Waiting for his return.

Was there something to the appearance of Natasha? I still knew not what to expect from the stunning blonde beauty. One of my first acquaintances made upon my arrival to Rhy'Din proper I could not discount her connection to Aukai. Was she seeking me out for her own purposes? Or was there something more to it?

I would know more tomorrow night. It was time to pay up my debt of a date from the Gala Auction. Pouring myself a glass of Pinot I let it breathe upon the counter as I slipped free from my jacket. Pausing to hang it on the rack within the front closet. The hat and its veil carefully unpinned and hung upon the shelves found there as well. Gloves daintily plucked free and set within the perfumed drawers that awaited.

With the Pinot in hand I moved into my bedroom, a sip enjoyed before the dresser top became the wineglass' new home. Unbuttoning my blouse I slid the silky creation free from my body and folded it within the hamper. The hooks that ran along my hip seen to next and the pencil skirt joining it as I lifted one heeled foot after the other from its confines.

Another sip before I unclipped my hair sending it spiraling free from the twist to glide down over a shoulder. My busy hands moving to the garters that held my stockings in place. Bent nearly over I was in that vulnerable position when I froze...

..there, upon my bedside table, the red book awaited.

My heart skipped, fluttered, and set off on a pace that would've done a hummingbird proud. The gasp was audible and from the kitchenette Sir meowed his question for my sound.

I had no answer for him, my most loyal companion. I had no answers for myself. Somehow the book had re-entered my boudoir, inserted itself within my bowery, violated my mind.

The panicked breaths had strained the bustier I still wore and I felt a lightheadedness that had more to do with the aroused fear than the inability to breathe through the strictures of my corset.

I moved toward it in determination, the heels still ringing against my wooden floor when I moved from the rug. Snatching it from its resting place in a rare display of volatility I marched through my loft and stepped forth upon my balcony determined to fling it from the perch.

But I found myself cuddling it against my heaving breasts. Ripping my eyes from its covers I lifted my gaze to the heavens desperate for the mediation of the stars that remained hidden beneath the overcast skies.

The wolf whistle drew me from my contemplation and it was only then that I realized I wore only my lacy underthings and stood upon my balcony overlooking the marketplace.

Dropping the book upon the balcony floor took all my willpower and shakily I moved away from it, closing the glass doors between us.

I would see my sister tomorrow for more Beltane readings and between the two of us we would find a way to break this obvious compulsion.

Rubbing my hands over my icy shoulders I knew that it was not simple shivering that wracked my body.

Aroused fear, fearful arousal, either way I trembled.

(Adapted some from liveplay, thank you Euriya Shilo, Indiscretion XI, Lucky Clover...and of course Aukai)

I kept my promise to Clover. A seeing at her place was the offer on the stand.

I was quite familiar with the Zen Gardens thanks to Fiora's choice of residency and had visited a time or two during her recovery. It was because of this familiarity that I chose to time my progression through the West End with the routines of the Watchmen who were quite resplendent in their willingness to offer their guardianship. Escorted as I was, I mingled and socialized with several before arriving safely before the statuaries that guarded the establishment. Wishing them well, I ascended in search of the lovely Clover.

I was pleasantly surprised by the sight of Clover's apartment. Well decorated with a more sedate taste than I would've credited her for I was to be equally impressed by the scent of her baking. The sinfully attractive red-head was dressed comfortably for our session and greeted me with such enthusiasm that I was quickly put at ease. .

An ease that was fostered by her natural grace in serving me tea and freshly baked lemon bread.

"Do you even realize that you do it?" I hadn't meant to ask, perhaps it was her easy welcomeness that drew the question unhindered from my lips. I took a moment to sip from the sweet tea, pleased at the beverage choice, before explaining, "Seek everyone else's comfort and happiness so effortlessly?"

The pause before her response revealed that I had surprised her, but her smile remained soft and welcoming as she explained, "It isn't the most common trait of my people." She considered the question further, "It has become effortless, with training."

Her answer was surprisingly edifying for I felt a resistance at her center. A natural inclination that demanded worship. Indeed, she seemed to thrive on a spiritual level when met with adoration and pleasure. I did not share my insights just yet as I instead chose to nibble at the bread she'd provided. The tart taste pleasant. Savoring the flavor I chose to open myself to the influence of the celestial bodies in that moment, gently forewarning, "When I read I tend to become quite...flooded with sensation." Demure tones concealing the whisper of my need that filtered through me like an addiction. The pleasure was so close I trembled.

She gave a slow nod, emptying her hands of the plate she held and settling in to watch me at work. Her quiet anticipation fed my own wish to please her.

As the weight of the stars descended upon me I contained my reaction in the gentle fisting of my hands in my lap. Rigidly austere, my posture remained perfect, the sight I presented always elegant and refined as a direct contradiction to the purely primitive wave of ecstasy that stretched my senses to their limits. For an observer it might appear as if I had quit breathing, for indeed I held that indrawn breath desperately taut to keep the ragged sound of delirium from passing my tightened lips. To those empathetic the assault of pleasure rivaled an orgasmic experience and a spiritual awakening. Thrumming with the power and the pressure of the stars I allowed them to take me, lift me, un-thread my very essence and strum me as if I were simply the instrument of their pleasure. A low sound vibrated in perfect pitch from deep within my throat as my lashes lifted to reveal the twilight emptiness of my celestial gaze. The black wells pinpricked with lights much like a night sky. "Born during the Week of Manifestation. The Venus Star held court upon your birth. Personally invested in you, the harmonies and discordances of love are forever entwined with your path." The husky timbre of my voice could not be helped, hoarsened as if I had spent hours moaning in raw abandonment, once began I could not stop without risk and pain, "Those born beneath this star's influence are hard-headed...amongst the most dominant individuals of all. They do not rest once they have decided upon a course of action."


I moaned. It was a rare breach of restraint, but I could see and feel the sight and weight of Clover's response on a primal level that had my rigid demeanor slipping. Tearing my gaze upward and from the vision of her I sought to complete the reading while I was still able. The swan like column of my throat extended, a milky white symbol of my shaking resolve as I swallowed around the sounds of pleading ravishment and instead forced sensible words from my dry throat, "Naturally productive, strengthened through structure with a penchant for practicality that will make you a naturally gifted leader should you ever choose to assume such a mantle. Incredibly stubborn, you are impossible to convince of the need for change once you have made your decisions. This can be a weakness if left to run untended." As the stars revealed more I could not contain what sounded suspiciously like a whimper of need, "Physical beings. Intensely physical, those born in the Week of Manifestation take intimate pleasure in people, sex, food, comfort, and all forms of recreation. Able to immerse themselves with abandon and achieve bliss rarely seen by most."


"Be wary of complacency. Of falling captive to other's views and controls." I forced myself to ignore the blazingly moist heat that assaulted me and left me squirming upon her couch in an unseemly display of wantonness. "Do not become distracted by the pleasures and lose sight of your true desires, such sedentary complacency can be damaging and dangerous to you. Your generosity is both a blessing and a curse, your desire to see to other's happiness may make you lose sight of your own." I was gasping now, nearly panting and would've been flame-cheeked had I retained awareness of myself and my growing undulations, "Your desire for harmony and need for affection makes you vulnerable to emotional manipulation and appeals. Those who interact with you must be wary of taking advantage of you and Never...Never should any engage in a direct confrontation with those of this star's alignment, for their tempers are glorious and will consume both them and the object of their anger...." I was lost now, unable to regain my control and as I shuddered beneath the onslaught of release I drew my gaze back to her, the twilight fire of celestial energies dissipating in slow pulsations as I practically purred my final advice, "Do not let fear dictate your relations, nor other's needs continuously supersede your own. Do not lose sight of yourself in the pursuit of pleasure....Allow yourself to believe in that which you inspire in others." The last was whispered as I collapsed back upon her couch...breathless and spent.

As I lay limply replete though restlessly desperate for a physical representation of my experience, I was greeted by the glorious sight of blazing blue eyes. Clover's undeniably attractive features growing closer as the other woman sought to gift me with comfort and gratitude. The glide of her adoring palm and fingertips were followed by the gentle pressure of her lips.

And it was I who abandoned myself in that moment. The soft cozy scent of her baking was invaded by the bite of crimson cinnamon and I held mesmerized by the stunning shade of Clover's luxurious hair. Surrendering to the pleasure of her touch, I became undone.


((Special gratitude for the player of Lucky Clover))

We met at one of the myriad cafes that dotted the terrain of Marketplace District. I had yet to find one that truly stood apart from the others and I was content to let her choose. The young man who seated us had bashfully apologized for his lingering looks, blushingly explaining, "You two look so much alike."

I didn't see it. To be honest, I'd never had. While Bianca and I most assuredly shared some similarities, the long lanky build of our father was more rounded by mother's lush curves upon her frame. And her beauty was transcendent. I was more than aware that the harsher planes of my face were not nearly as welcoming or pleasingly symmetrical.

My tastes ran to constraints while hers to flamboyance and as the young man stumbled away beneath her soothing assurances that they were sisters, I took in her glittering jewels that hung from her delicate earlobes in a provokingly glaring fashion. Another set of jewelry adorned her neck, the chunky beading obviously of her own design where it dipped into the exposed cleavage left bare by her plunging neckline.

She caught sight of my gaze and followed it to a different meaning, "Do you like it? I made it just this last week."

I managed a carefully contrived smile of appreciation which she saw through as easily as only siblings can, "You hate it."

Her laugh was melodic. A harmony of sound that drew the glances of other patrons. Glances that lingered upon the sight of her.

"I do not hate it." I responded coolly with a lift of one thin brow, "It suits you."

"Ouch." A shake of her head sent the waterfall of razor straight fine hair to glide about her shoulders, "Gaudy, loud, held together by a strand...hmm..."

Her way with words had always made her my better in some ways. Whereas I carefully weighed my own to be careful lest I reveal something of the stars without the recipient's wishes, she was a bard. A master of tale and song.

Carefully I directed the conversation away without having to engage that particular topic, "How are things at the school?"

She let me take the lead with a dab of her tongue upon her lips. Her smile grew into a naughtily provocative lift that warned me I was not about to like what she had to say, "I'm sleeping with a student."

I said nothing. Instead reaching a gloved hand to grasp the glass before me. Once a sip of water was achieved, I murmured, "I thought you were sleeping with another teacher," keeping censorship from my voice.

"I was." She waved a hand airily and sent a the bangles on her arms clashing together in a clinking sound that again drew appreciative eyes. "But he got boring."

"Bianca. He was supposed to help me with the book." My clear enunciation was in part due to my long held irritation for my sister and her flighty ways and the control I needed to exert whenever I thought of the book's claret covered pages.

"Right. I haven't forgotten." She rolled her eyes as she flagged down their waiter who was already waiting with the eagerness of a puppy, "He said it is definitely a form of enchantment. And I left it with him. "

Panic seized my heart. I could feel my skin flush even as I felt my temperature plummet with dread and replace the hot flash with the chills. The thought of the book being away from me was enough to rip a moan of distress from my lips as my lashes fluttered shut, "Nooo."

"Tasha?" I heard her voice, heard the concern that vibrated that rich contralto into such beautifully charming sound. "Tasha!"

I couldn't answer as I was being swept into the darkness through a tunnel of pulsating claret confusion.