Britwitch's Cottage

[Britwitch]

I turn as I hear someone leaving...I had left the cottage unlocked, perhaps a visitor had stayed to await my return...

Hello...? Someone there...? Please say there is...

Feelings of being watched and then strange, unexplained sounds on a dark, rainy night do not a comfortable witch make...

 

[Britwitch]

The rain during the night has left the wood sparkling and fresh, raindrops glistening in spiders' webs and dripping steadily from leaves.

Above the tree tops, patches of blue are fleetingly revealed as grey and white clouds are continuously dancing across the sky in a stiff breeze.

A pot of freshly made allspice tea scents the cottage in an attempt to ward off a cold that is threatening to take hold.

I have one of my favourite, softest shawls wrapped around my shoulders as I cradle my cup, sitting and looking out of the window...

 

[marauder13]

I made my way slowly along the natural pathway that led to the quiet place of my good and dear friend. Knowing that she was hopefully back from her little journey, I tempted the Fates and went to see if she had indeed returned.

When I reached the edge of the clearing where her little cottage was nestled, I saw that there were signs of life and activity within. I took this for a good sign, and continued my approach. I was merely damp by the time I reached the shelter of the porch, something that the level of rain would suggest was not a normal outcome.

I had been looking forward to returning, and I hoped that she was not already entertaining other guests. I smiled at the thought of being somewhat greedy with my desire to spend some time alone with the resident of the abode. But then again, I saw nothing wrong with having such a desire.

My hand knocked on the door, hard enough to be heard by anyone within, but not hard enough to rattle the door unnecessarily.

 

[Britwitch]

Lost in my thoughts I jump a little at the knock on the door, putting down my tea I pad over to open it, my bare feet quiet against the tiled floor.
My face breaks into a happy smile to see the visitor waiting outside the door.

Oh I hoped you come to visit soon, come in, come in...

I step back and open the door wide, gesturing for him to make himself comfortable, suggesting a place by the fire to dry out his clothing a little.

So...what do you think of my little place...?

 

[marauder13]

I am greeted by a smile that is well worth the wait, as well as a walk through the rain. I return the her smile with one of equal warmth as I am permitted entry into the quaint cottage.

I openly look around as I walk closer to the welcoming warmth of the fire. A small shake of my head reflects the thoughts I have. I couldn't have imagined any different to what I was seeing. Every aspect of the cottage was a clear reflection of the one who called it home. Right down to that earthiness that was strongly with her.

I think that it is wonderful. The perfect place for you to retreat to.

I politely turn to face my gracious host, letting the warmth dry out my back. Since it is the first time we have met under these circumstances, I continue to let my... talents work subtly. While the fire is adequate to dry myself with, it doesn't do all the work alone. Plus, I would rather not insult my host by becoming instantaneously dry. Not this early anyway.

But further thoughts are put on hold as a rather pleasant aroma finally reaches me. The fragrance has an interesting side effect, one that informs me that I am thirsty.

Would I be correct in saying that you have some tea prepared? It has a most interesting aroma.

I leave the remainder of the question unasked. Again, so I don't insult the host.

 

[Britwitch]

I feel a proud smile curve my lips to hear his approval, not that I need it, it's just nice to have ones choices appreciated.

Yes, it's allspice, I fear I have a cold coming on and am trying my best to ward it off...
Please forgive my rudeness for not offering you refreshment yet, can I get you a cup or would you prefer a different blend?
There is still plenty of hot water in the kettle...

I gesture to the array of blends available as I move to take down a clean mug from upon the shelf and place it on the table, glancing across at him, genuinely happy to have him here.

Realising something else is amiss with the proceedings so far I quickly cross the distance between us to offer a welcoming kiss on the cheek, resting my hand on his shoulder as I push myself onto my tiptoes to make the connection.

I should have done that already too, don't know where my manners have run off to today...anyway, please know you are very welcome here...

So, what can I get you...? What takes your fancy?

 

[marauder13]

"So, what can I get you...? What takes your fancy?"

I can't help but smile as a myriad of responses vie for the honours of being said in reply. But, as my host is being gracious, so shall I.

I would like a cup of tea. Nothing fancy or exotic.

Again, I let my talents go to work, increasing the speed in which I am rendered dry. The atmosphere, the ambiance of the cottage was one that generated a feeling of relaxing calm. At times, I could almost pick up on echoes of excitement, possibly even frenzied activities. They seemed a little out of kilter with the remaining feelings.

I looked around for somewhere to sit, and decided that the floor was a comfortable enough place to sit. The place I chose was close enough to the fire to benefit from the welcoming warmth, without getting to warm. I allow my gaze to watch my host as she moves about her cottage. There is a nice easy and natural grace to her movement. To my mind, it would appear that she is most comfortable with herself. That knowledge that comes with the acceptance of who she is.

I do have one question for you. How did you find this place?

 

[Britwitch]

As you wish...

I set about making him a cup of simple black tea, smooth and softly flavoured.
I bring the mug over, along with a small jug of milk should he desire it and join him on the floor. Sitting with one leg bent up in front of me, resting my forearm upon it, cradling the tea in it's palm.

I think this place found me to be honest, if you believe in such things...
I dreamt of this cottage, of these woods, and then one day...found myself here...and it was, well, perfect...
Simple and homely, everything I wanted, everything I needed...

I sip my tea, watching as he tests his, hoping it's satisfactory.
Shifting a little closer to the fire in order to put another log onto the merrily dancing flames, I lean towards him a little.

What about you...? Do have somewhere you can escape to...?

 

[marauder13]

It's nice being able to just sit with someone at times, not worrying about too many things. I found that is always a function of the company, rather than the topics discussed.

Well, you are a very fortunate person. I can feel the soothing presence of the place. It is very relaxing. Actually, not relaxing, more like leeching away of tensions.

As I drink the tea Brit has made for me, I can't help but feel the echoes of some not so relaxed activities. Maybe it is just my wicked imagination coupled with the slight amount of insight I have on my host that I picked up through our written work.

At her question, I sigh.

No, I haven't. Though a number of my friends have places where they like to entertain friends, so when I feel a need, in that regard, I drop by. When I do, it helps me to escape well enough. Plus, I have my many tales, here and elsewhere, that help me when I need. Right now, I don't feel the need for a place of my own. Maybe later. We'll see.

It does make me wonder what kind of place I would have if I needed one in this part of the world. I let my thoughts meander over the concept for a little while.

I must tell you how thrilled I was to see you return, and basically sound out people for threads. That we were able to get Jacob and Elena back together was just plain wonderful.

I wonder how much this cottage reflects Elena's or visa-versa.

 

[Britwitch]

I'm happy to hear it

I blush a little

I'm ever so glad to be back...I honestly didn't realise how much I missed this place. The friendships and the playful banter...and writing...god I missed writing!

I finish my tea and, after placing the empty mug on the floor, I lean back on my hands

I was just thankful people like yourself still wanted to 'work' with me...especially after such a long absence...unintentional or not, it was a long time to be kept waiting...

I pause for a moment, thinking back over all that has happened this year, all the things that kept me away, not just from Lit but from other things, other people. And a awful as many of them were, I wouldn't change them, not one iota. Life is what it is and it's up to you what you make of it...

Well, if you ever do find your own retreat, do let me know so I can bring round a house...castle...cottage...cave...'insert abode of choice' warming gift of homemade baking and flask of tea...

I giggle playfully

 

[marauder13]

Well, some things are well worth waiting for, even if I was being overly optimistic about your return.

The offer of an abode warming gift gets me thinking of a few things. A rather naughty grin appears on my face.

Oh? Is that all? Well, I suppose I will just have to make sure that I have a good bench top with a decent mirror above it somewhere. Maybe in a bathroom?

 

[Britwitch]

I can feel the heat rush to my cheeks at his playfully spoken words, my mouth opens to reply but no words come out for a moment or two, eventually in a slightly breathless voice I reply

While I'm sure I don't know what you mean...I would obviously expect a complete tour when I visited...

I wink as I shift slightly upon the floor

 

[marauder13]

My expression assumes a complete air of nor quite innocence, but not guilt or naughtiness either, since either are dead giveaways.

Of course. What host would I be if I didn't include a thorough tour of the retreat. I would be sure to show you every room, and ensure that you have a fine appreciation for each place you are shown.

It is all too tempting to create a rather large abode to ensure a lengthy tour. But that would just be rather crass. Just enough rooms to fill the needs, no more, no less.

I set the half full cup of tea on the floor to one side, and lean a little closer to my host.

I do believe that you are looking a little hot. Would this make it better? With out pause, I place a soft kiss on each of the warm, glowing cheeks before I resume my place on the floor.

 

[Britwitch]

I can feel myself shifting on the floor as he talks of showing me his retreat in all it's glory, although the source of the motion couldn't exactly be described as discomfort.

As he leans closer my breath catches in my throat for a moment.
The kisses don't exactly lessen the flush to my cheeks, as much as increase it and the slowly but surely increasing tingling in my stomach.

Er...th-thank you...that... I cough, trying to get the embarassing, unexpected tremor out of my voice ...that was very nice...maybe we're sat too close to the fire...

 

[marauder13]

The one joyous thing about this place... not just this cottage, but this place in general, is it allows people to be who they really see themselves to be. Some are were's of differing types, others vampires. Most just like to accentuate the aspects that they feel need... refinement?

Anyway, you're feeling too warm near the fire. Let me help. I left a hand, and with a gentle wave, the fire's heat diminishes without having any other noticeable effects on the flames. After a few seconds, the ambient temperature starts to drop as the heat supplied to the air by the fire is reduced.

If it is too cold, I can let the fire return to normal, as we can reposition ourselves.

 

[Britwitch]

For a moment I can't stop staring at the fireplace and the fact that while I can definitely feel a change in the temperature, the fire is burning as merrily as it was a few moments ago.
My eyes then flick between him and the flames for a minute.

Wow, well that was...I'm not sure this is the right word but that was impressive...

I smile as I run a hand through my hair before shyly adding

...but as I suspected was the case, my face is still warm even with your magick at work...if I'm honest I don't think it was the fire that was making me feel so warm all of a sudden...

I look down at the tiled floor beneath us before returning my gaze to his face

...I think it might have been the direction our conversation was taking...not that I wasn't enjoying it, I was, it was just that...well, what I mean is...

My attempts at making sure I don't offend are only succeeding in rendering me apparently incoherent

...maybe I don't know what I mean...

I eventually manage to say rather bluntly with another shy smile

 

[marauder13]

I resist the urge to smile at the faltering that my little display has had on my host. I drain the remainder of my tea, which I have kept warm the entire time, before placing the cup on the floor.

Really? Have I been saying things that have left you a little heated? The smile breaks free of its confines at last. Maybe I can do something about that... something to cool you off a touch? I wiggle my fingers in a vaguely mystical manner and rock my eyebrows up just a little.

Actually, now that I think about it, there is one application of my... talents that I can use to make you cool down. There is no gesture, no words, nothing to indicate what is to occur. I simply fade away until there is no further sign of me. Though while that happens, I manage to have one parting comment.

I am sorry, Brit. Real life is calling me and I must answer it with haste. But, I shall return again. Hopefully soon. Farewell.

 

[Britwitch]

Before I can ask what application he might have in mind he gradually fades away, his parting words hanging in the air even after he vanishes from sight...

Farewell...

I murmur at the spot where he was, smiling as I feel the heat of the fire returning in his absence. After taking a moment to calm myself following our conversation, I gather our mugs and get up off the floor...

Well, that was definitely interesting...can't wait to see what his next visit brings...

I say with a smile, washing up our mugs and then drying my hands on a cloth.
Outside the wind is steadily increasing and the clouds growing ever darker, I think we'll have more rain before long.
I take a few minutes to light some oil lamps and candles to illuminate the gloomy corners of the cottage with the lack of sunshine outside.
Before settling in my favourite chair with my notebook to work on the posts I owe...

 

[Britwitch]

My head is delightfully fuzzy as I blow out a few of the candles that are burning...thanks to the bottle of white wine I discovered, hidden, in the back of a cupboard earlier this evening...

It practically cried out to be sampled and so, with no company to share it with, I had a glass...or two...

Giggling a little, I carelessly chuck a couple of logs onto the fire and make my unsteady way upstairs, half full glass in hand...sipping from it every other step...

Once in the loft, I make short work of removing my clothes and slipping naked beneath the sheets...laid on my stomach I drain the last of the wine before rolling onto my back and looking out at the night sky. Patches of stars coming into sight every so often as the clouds skip across the sky...

 

[Britwitch]

The trees are golden now, autumn is definitely here.
Some have already shed much of their leafy coverage in the strong winds of the last few days.
My garden is looking a little sorry for itself, flowers slowly succumbing to the change in temperature and the decrease in sunny hours. The herbs looking rather pathetic after a surprise frost a few nights ago.
The sky seems perpetually grey for the last few days and the wind with a distinct bite.

I think before long I will have to trim back the bushes and plants before it gets too late. My climbing roses need pruning back along with a few other climbers around the garden.
I smile as I can almost smell that gorgeous autumn scent...a bonfire...
Maybe over the weekend...

Today I have lots of little jobs to do...new curtains to hem, heavy fabric ready to keep out the winter chill from the windows. Word from the city yesterday was that we're in for the coldest winter in a thousand years, sounds ominous...and kind of exciting...
Better stock up the woodshed while I'm at it too!
General cleaning and laundry to do...I sigh as I realise today might be a long one...

Maybe I'll be lucky though and have a visitor to distract me from my chores...

 

[monique_minx]

Wandering along a path not too far from Brit's cottage, I kick a rock out of my way and look up to see her light is on. I smile and pick my way through the small bit of forest; hoping she isn't too annoyed to see someone calling by unannounced but...

I look back and damn! That just seems like a really long way home...I'm gonna need to bring alternative transportation when I stray this far from home! I make my way up to her front door, pulling a twig out of my red hair with a shiver; how the hell did that get there?!

I toss it aside and knock on her door...

 

[Britwitch]

I open the door and smile brightly to see a visitor on my doorstep

Hello! Come in, come in...it's freezing out there today...

I give a warm welcoming hug, before I usher her inside

Do make yourself at home, you must be cold, can I get you a tea or anything...?

 

[monique_minx]

I smile in return and hug her tightly, shivering a little as she ushers me inside

Tea would be great Brit, thanks

I smile brightly and observe my surroundings

You've done this place up really nicely. It's so cosy!

 

[Britwitch]

Thanks, I like it...

I grin, guiding her towards the fire to warm up

It's always nice to have visitors, although I'm a little out of the way here, but then...I suppose that was part of the appeal of this place...

Bringing a pot of hot water and a selection of teas, I set them down on the table along with honey for sweetening and a small jug of milk

Do help yourself to whatever you'd like, I have some cookies around here somewhere...

I insist, pausing to stoke the fire so that the flames dance a little more merrily and warm my guest to the fullest

...seriously, just let me know what you'd like and it's yours...

 

[monique_minx]

I warm my hands in front of the fire, giggling at the fact that I don't have one of my own but then I suppose it would be out of place and besides; where would I stick it? Between the stocks and the x frame perhaps? I shake my head, sometimes I think about the most absurd things!

I turn slightly as she speaks and sets out all kinds of things, I'm clearly impressed because our versions of being a good hostess are so different. Oops, I'm blushing, stop it Minx!

I settle on a small overstuffed armchair and wriggle gleefully over the cushioning while I watch her stoke the flames. I make myself a white Earl Gray tea and warm my hands around the cup. My cheeks turn pink over how nice and polite she is.

Oh I'm great, thanks. You're an amazing hostess, I'm surprised this place isn't packed out with hungry travelers all the time!

I giggle and take a sip of the tea, it's still just a bit too hot though I happily let it sit. I place it on the little table to my left and lean forward a little

Actually Brit, I have a bit of a confession to make, I did have a bit of an ulterior motive for coming here. Other than the fact that I want to get to know you and I'm really impressed by your writing anyway.

I blush just a little more, one day I'll be a real tomato and that'll fix me!

I was wondering how full your thread plate is right now and whether or not you might be interested in doing something BDSM based?