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zhongrin · 5 months

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𒆙 ღ

part 8/8 of ⎡∞ / 𝟔 𝟎 𝟎 𝟎 ⁺⎦, a zhongli 2023 birthday event

𖧷 tags ┈ selfship (zhongrin, small hint of zhongwrinth), 3rd person pov from zhongli's side, fluff, bittersweet (like almost all the other chapters are lol), slight soft yandere-ish, slight genshin's canon lore references

𖧷 a/n ┈ happy new year my dear patrons! starting off this year strong with some super indulgent selfship piece :> technically, it can be read as x fem!reader, but you'll find that it was not meant to be one. you'll find a lot of hidden selfship lores in this, and it's very very very self-indulgent and personal (which is why i don't have the usual x reader tags), so keep that in mind and be respectful, please 🙏🏻 you have been warned!

𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝒻𝓊𝓁𝓁 𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓊 ❬ masterlist ❭ 𐫱 𝓂𝑒𝓂𝒷𝑒𝓇𝓈𝒽𝒾𝓅 ❬ taglist ❭

𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 was an intricacy he had been continuously studying over the course of more than six thousand years and counting now.

and still, with every year that passed, he realized there were many sides of love he had not discovered nor experienced himself. things like—

how the peals of someone’s laughter could be comparable to the most melodious bird’s singing, and in its contraposition, how the saddened frown from a beloved person when he forgot an important date due to the many anniversaries which had accumulated over the past few millennia, could cut deeper than the sharpest blades forged by the most proficient masters of the blacksmiths.

how, despite the many losses and reunions he had experienced, he would still have the same nightmare that had been regularly plaguing him from a few millennia back: the vision of her bloodied shell, the rage bubbling from the deepest of his heart. how the mountains tore and the seabed shifted, the anguish as cold as the lifeless body within his hold and as silent as her unmoving crimson-stained lips, the pain hundredfold as he buried her with his own hands in some desolate place ridden by war and placed a single yellow hibiscus as a meagre offering.

how the scent of the sea used to be relatively bearable despite the reflexive scrunch of his nose, and even so, he found himself increasingly becoming averse to them - especially when the scent paired with the minty frost of snezhnaya or the chalky, wintery air of dragonspine.

how, those old times ago, his closest friends had betted on the day he would use his proficiency and skills in the advanced adepti arts to do menial tasks out of love, and though at that time, morax had scoffed and laughed right in front of their face... look at him now, gladly using the ability to maintain adeptal realms to expand his beloved’s teashop or facilitate her travels between the nations of teyvat.

𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒… such an infinitely complex and neverending, yet beautiful affair.

“happy birthday, rex lapis.”

“happy birthday, morax.”

“happy birthday, zhongli.”

“happy birthday, xiànɡ ɡonɡ!”

love tasted like a sweet kiss with a touch of fragrant osmanthus and the bitterness of coffee. love took the form of a bashful and imperfect smile in full bloom against rosy cheeks. love was the way her silken hair felt against his calloused fingers as he tied his treasured golden hair clip around the midnight-colored strands, following her 'coincidental' oversight to bring her own. love was heard in fond wishes and silent gratitudes whispered into the seas of stars, amongst the soft rolls of waves caressing the shores of the harbor of their retirement home.

perhaps his darling won’t be by his side next year. perhaps she would, in a different form than what she was now. perhaps…. he would not survive this year.

but what did it matter?

for even as calamity befell aria, sonnet, and canon, the corpse of a moon still continued its sovereignty in a fixed orbit to encircle teyvat, unchanging — and so he believed the two lovers’ fates would intertwine once again; for she was destined to be his, for he oathed to be bound to her beyond a mortal expiry;

until their souls reunited in a place not even the heavenly principles could reach,

until no more engraved rings could fit in her fingers,

until teyvat's bedrock crumbled into dust.

“the day the rite of parting is recompensed, wife of mine… i promise our 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒 will be sealed eternal.”

a contract sealed in souls, befitting of his goetic namesake. this might as well be the most selfish contract he has ever sealed with his blood — yet could one still call him a devil when his victim was most willing?

#genshin impact #zhongli #yandere #rin selfships #zhongrin #zhongwrinth #rin writes #∞ / 𝟔 𝟎 𝟎 𝟎 ⁺

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glimmervoi · 5 months

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A SEALED FATE: EMERALDS AND BLOOD: III - Afternoon Tea

masterlist

e&b masterlist

Notes: To the assholes who sent me all of those messages, I hope that you hate this chapter and feel unfulfilled after reading it. I hope that you hate it so much that you block me and never read my fic again. I almost just didn't post the update to tumblr cause of y'all <3

To the people who have been kind, I hope that you enjoyed this chapter! I introduced a new perspective much sooner than in the original version, and I think it helps to show that there were other things happening in the castle aside from just what the reader is seeing and living through.

As always, I appreciate any feedback! (Unless it involves insults or death threats of course. Cheers to you, anonymous trash bags from the Gown post)

With only four days remaining until the ball, the royal caterers had commenced their slow transformation of the castle's halls. In the center hall, a grand pine tree had been brought in and installed, now adorned with shimmering ornaments and velvety star-shaped garlands.

Elsewhere in the castle, numerous smaller trees, similarly decorated, dotted the corridors. Pine and holly wreaths, interwoven with winter blooms, adorned nearly every door while the expansive windows boasted fragrant green garlands.

The caterers had skillfully infused the spirit of yule into every wing, all while adhering to the color scheme that had been a tradition since long before Namjoon's birth. Though he wasn't always the keenest on the castle’s holiday festivities, he couldn't help but admire the craftsmanship of the caterers.

Now, as he stood there, gazing at the grand tree in the main hall, memories of his childhood flooded back. Everything seemed so much simpler then...

"Joon?" A voice called out from behind him, breaking through his thoughts. Namjoon turned to find his eldest brother standing a few paces away, his dark-haired fiancée clinging to his arm. Jin's expression clearly betrayed his discomfort and irritation, causing Namjoon to suppress the laughter bubbling up inside him.

It wasn't uncommon for his brother to wear his emotions so openly, but it always amused Namjoon nonetheless.

"Jin," he greeted his brother, approaching them slowly. "And Lady Woong," he added, giving her a small bow and pressing a kiss to the gloved hand she extended towards him. The elegant woman giggled and waved her hand in response, her cheeks flushing with a rosy hue.

"Prince Namjoon, there's no need to bow to me," Lady Woong cooed, and Seokjin rolled his eyes. Namjoon offered her a friendly laugh, though he harbored little fondness for her. He saw through her bubbly facade, just as Seokjin did. She was merely another pawn in their mother's schemes.

"We were headed to lunch, but I suddenly recalled our meeting that was scheduled a few days prior," Seokjin interjected, his body subtly angling away from his fiancée despite her embrace.

Namjoon cocked his head, knowing it was a lie - a convenient excuse for his brother to evade the discomfort of his lunch with Woong. Temptation gnawed at him to shake his head and leave Seokjin to endure Woong's company alone, as retribution for the prank his brother had played on him weeks earlier. He still felt the need to check under his pillow every night to ensure that were wasn’t a frog there.

However, Namjoon understood Seokjin's aversion to spending time with his fiancée. If their roles were reversed, Namjoon would want his brothers to lend a hand too.

With a nod, Namjoon offered Lady Woong an apologetic smile. "Forgive me, my Lady. Jin and I have an important matter to discuss. Would you mind if I stole him away for a while?"

Lady Woong pouted and released her grip on Seokjin. "Very well," she sighed, taking a step back from the brothers and smoothing down her peach-colored gown. "But do return him promptly when you're finished."

Namjoon nodded, though a twinge of irritation simmered within him. Who was she to dictate his actions? He was a prince, after all, while she was nothing. Engaging in an argument with her over such a trivial matter wouldn't be wise, but he struggled to suppress the scowl itching to emerge. He and Seokjin observed in silence as she brushed past them, making her way towards the southern wing, where her lunch awaited her.

Once she was out of earshot, Seokjin released a heavy sigh. "Thank you," he breathed, rubbing his shoulder. "She had me in an iron grip; I feared she might snap me in two." Namjoon chuckled at his brother's theatrics.

"Well, we'll have to stage a convincing chat now, in case one of Woong's minions catches sight of us," Namjoon suggested, nodding towards the northern wing. "Shall we sit for tea there? We're less likely to be disturbed, as no guests have arrived for the ball yet."

Seokjin hummed in agreement, and the brothers proceeded to the northern wing. Inside, maids diligently carried out their daily cleaning tasks. They bowed respectfully as the duo passed, but the brothers paid them no mind. After all, they were just maids.

At the end of the hallway, they halted at a pair of double doors. Seokjin pushed them open, a satisfied smile gracing his lips. "Already tidied up," he remarked, stepping inside. "No risk of maids spreading dust."

As Seokjin entered the room, Namjoon turned to a maid assisting a caterer in draping a long piece of purple garland around a portrait of their grandmother. "You," he addressed her, his tone firm. Startled, she looked up, her eyes widening in response.

Namjoon would never vocalize it, but sometimes he relished the fear he instilled in the servants. As the fourth prince in line for the throne, he possessed privileges but little power within the family. Occasionally exerting authority over those beneath him served as a gratifying outlet.

The maid promptly set the garland down and bowed, murmuring a hasty "Yes, sir." Namjoon scrutinized her briefly as she remained in a deep bow. There was something about her that sparked a flicker of recognition, though he couldn't quite place it.

Shaking his head to dispel the thought, Namjoon snapped his fingers to gain her attention. She straightened but kept her chin lowered, awaiting his next command. "Fetch us some tea," he instructed briskly. "There should be a crate from Shivermaw; bring that one."

Without waiting for her response, Namjoon strode into the warm room. Seokjin was already reclining on a spacious sofa by the tall window. As Namjoon drew closer, his brother straightened up.

"I thought you weren't fond of tea from Shivermaw," Seokjin remarked as Namjoon settled into the soft armchair to the left of the sofa. Namjoon offered a faint smile, though it failed to reach his eyes.

"Not the tea itself," he clarified, crossing his long legs. "It's the Duchess I take issue with at Shivermaw. Their tea, on the other hand, is rather delightful. We receive the finest peppermint from them."

Seokjin scoffed and rolled his eyes, a broad grin spreading across his plump lips. "With the way you go on about Damaris, one might mistake you as eager to marry her," he teased, draping his arm over the back of the sofa. "Tell me, little brother, should I plead with mother to arrange your marriage to Damaris before I tie the knot with Woong?"

Namjoon's jaw clenched, his gaze hardening as memories of the pale-skinned Duchess flitted through his mind. "I've made my feelings regarding the Duchess abundantly clear," he retorted firmly.

Sensing his brother's seriousness, Seokjin relented, opting to examine his fingernails instead of pressing further on the subject of Shivermaw or Damaris. A wise choice.

"Father requested to see me," Seokjin stated, paying little heed to Namjoon's reaction. Namjoon's breath caught in his throat, and he couldn't help but shift uncomfortably in his seat.

It was unusual for the king to seek out his sons unless the matter at hand was of utmost importance. All the princes understood that their father harbored no intentions of relinquishing the throne until his last breath. However, as the eldest of the seven, Seokjin stood as the primary heir to the crown.

Namjoon was aware that his brother harbored no desire to ascend to the throne of Erydia. Seokjin often spoke of a future where he resided in a grand estate nestled among the glittering lights and bustling social circles of Starwell's most affluent districts.

He couldn't envision himself thriving in such a role as king. Leading a vast kingdom would confine him within the castle walls for the remainder of his days, forever striving to appease the populace while evading potential assassination attempts.

Moreover, Seokjin lacked the knowledge and fairness required to rule the kingdom wisely—an admission he had made on numerous occasions. Years ago, he had expressed his unwillingness to inherit the throne to their father, resulting in a violent outburst from the king that left Seokjin with bruises and a split lip.

Their father's health was deteriorating rapidly. Both Namjoon and Seokjin sensed an imminent change looming, one that could materialize the moment their father's health declined to a critical point.

They shared an unspoken understanding that their father's summons to Seokjin was likely to discuss matters of succession.

Namjoon drew in a deep breath, his unease settling like a weight in the pit of his stomach. "You'll seek me out immediately afterward, won't you?" he inquired, his gaze flickering up to his brother's face.

Seokjin's expression remained stony and unreadable, but Namjoon sensed fear and discomfort beneath the facade. His brother would be venturing into this meeting alone, without the support of his siblings, and that realization left Namjoon feeling cold.

"Of course," Seokjin replied, tearing his gaze away from his nails to fixate on the coffee table before them, adorned with a solitary vase of silk flowers.

"Who knows," Jin murmured, his gaze growing distant as his thoughts undoubtedly raced through every possible scenario between him and their father. "Maybe I'll manage to persuade him to designate you as next in line."

It was no secret among Namjoon and his brothers that he was not only the most competent candidate for the throne but also the only one truly willing to embrace the responsibility. It demanded a level of quick decision-making for which Namjoon was uniquely suited.

Furthermore, Namjoon was one of their father's favored sons. Yet, for some reason, the king remained fixated on appointing Seokjin as his heir.

Namjoon opted not to reply to his brother; they both understood the uphill battle ahead. Their conversation was interrupted by a soft knock at the door, drawing their attention. Seokjin perked up, inviting the visitor to enter.

A moment later a curvy redheaded maid entered, pushing a small silver cart, her head bent respectfully. She released the cart and stepped to the side, bowing her body deeply. "Tea, Sir." she murmured softly.

This maid wasn't the one Namjoon had addressed earlier, but he recognized her nonetheless. She had been a fixture in the castle for some time, long enough for him to recognize her by face.

He knew she performed her duties well, enough that he seldom needed to reprimand her like he occasionally did with other maids.

"Very well," Namjoon acknowledged, gesturing for the maid to proceed into the room. She moved swiftly, arranging the table with the items from the cart—a porcelain teapot adorned with swirling pink flowers, matching tea cups, a plate of ginger cookies, and a small tray of pickled cucumber sandwiches.

"The castle's winter specialty," Seokjin quipped, eyeing the sandwiches with amusement. "Looks like the fresh cucumbers from Esteria haven't arrived yet." He leaned back as the maid began preparing their tea. The aroma of peppermint wafted through the air, and Seokjin found himself relaxing as he savored the sharp scent, his mouth watering in anticipation.

Once the maid had completed her task, she bowed once more. Neither Namjoon nor his brother bothered to offer thanks; she understood her place, and gratitude from those of higher status was unnecessary.

As the maid exited the room, wheeling the now-empty cart with her, the door clicked shut behind her. Namjoon reached forward and poured tea from the pot, serving his brother first before tending to himself.

Seokjin reached for a cucumber sandwich, emitting a satisfied hum as he chewed. "Truly, we have the most exceptional kitchen in the entire kingdom," he remarked between bites. Food always managed to lift his spirits and as he ate, thoughts of his impending meeting with their father faded.

Namjoon toyed with the idea of teasing that their kitchen had to be the best, lest their mother "dispose" of them. However, the atmosphere had finally lightened, and he knew that any mention of the Queen would only dampen the mood once more.

Namjoon savored a small sip of his steaming tea, releasing a breath infused with the refreshing scent of mint. Despite any rivalry with the duchess, there was no denying that the tea she sent remained unrivaled within the castle walls.

A comfortable silence enveloped the room as the brothers relished their afternoon tea, a rare moment of tranquility amidst their busy lives. With Seokjin's impending wedding, such moments had become increasingly scarce. Though Namjoon missed these times, he refused to grant his brother the satisfaction of admitting it; Seokjin would never let him hear the end of it.

For the past week, a nagging sensation had settled in Namjoon's stomach, warning him of impending change. He had initially attributed it to their father's declining health, but a gnawing suspicion signaled something more ominous.

Shaking off his unease, Namjoon averted his gaze to the dark liquid swirling in his cup. Dwelling on uncertainties would serve no purpose now, not when he finally found solace in the company of his brother. Later, after dinner, he would seek counsel from the Healer in the hopes of easing his lingering concerns.

Maybe she would have some answers for him.

#bts #yandere bts #yandere bts fic #bts fic #yandere hoseok #yandere jimin #yandere jin #yandere jungkook #yandere namjoon

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glamrpevents · 14 days

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Glamcity, we're heading to France! Prepare to be enchanted as we whisk you away to the beautiful and captivating city of Marseille, nestled on the sun-kissed shores of southern France. Marseille, often hailed as the "Gateway to the Mediterranean," beckons with its irresistible blend of old-world charm and cosmopolitan allure. Lose yourself in the rich tapestry of Marseille's history as you wander through its ancient streets, where each cobblestone whispers tales of bygone eras. Marvel at the architectural splendor of landmarks like the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde, perched atop the city's highest point, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the azure coastline below. Indulge your senses in the breathtaking aromas wafting from bustling markets, where colorful stalls overflow with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and fragrant spices. Savor the culinary delights of Marseille's renowned bouillabaisse, a traditional fish stew bursting with flavors that will transport you to gastronomic heaven. But Marseille is not just a feast for the senses—it's also a playground for the adventurous soul. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Calanques National Park, where dramatic limestone cliffs plunge into turquoise seas, inviting you to explore hidden coves and secret beaches. As the sun sets, surrender to the city's infectious joie de vivre as its vibrant nightlife comes alive. From chic rooftop bars overlooking the glittering harbor to cozy wine bars tucked away in labyrinthine alleyways, Marseille offers endless opportunities to toast to new adventures and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and join us on this journey to Marseille, where every street corner holds the promise of discovery, and every moment is infused with the magic of the Mediterranean. Get ready to fall in love with the charm, beauty, and boundless allure of this enchanting city. A bientôt à Marseille!

OUT OF CHARACTER INFORMATION BELOW THE CUT:

This event will take place from Friday May 17th until Sunday May 26th, 2024.

All celebrities within the group are invited and are expected to participate in some capacity.

As this is an event that spans over the course of more than a week, we will ask that you put all non-event threads on hold, as we hope for active participation for the event.

All characters will be staying at the same hotel for the sake of convenience within the group. The roommate list will be posted the day before the event takes place.

Threads, paragraphs and interactions written for the event should be tagged with GLAMCITYMARSEILLE + GLAMCITYEVENT004

We highly encourage people to post event outfits and aesthetics. These should be tagged with GLAMCITYOUTFIT.

Please like this post once you've read it!

ADDITIONAL INFO

As we prepare for our upcoming excursion to Marseille, we'd like to remind all participants that while this trip offers a wonderful opportunity for relaxation and exploration, it's also a chance for your characters to engage in group activities that will be posted in the coming days. These activities are designed to enhance the overall experience and foster interaction among characters.

We kindly request that all participants make an effort to participate in these planned activities to enrich the collective narrative and ensure everyone's enjoyment. However, if for any reason your character is unable to join the scheduled events, we encourage you to still have them explore and enjoy the city of Marseille independently.

Attendance at this event is mandatory for all characters. If your character is currently on tour or vacationing abroad, please arrange for them to go to France for the event. For characters who are married, we will naturally accommodate their marital status and assign them roommates accordingly. However, please communicate with the admins if this applies to your character. Failure to do so may result in the assignment of a random roommate.

To ensure everyone has some input regarding their roommates, please send us an ask or an IM with one person you'd prefer to room with and one person you would not prefer to room with. Even if your preference is random, please provide two names. We kindly request that these names be sent within the next 48 hours to allow ample time for us to organize everyone into groups of three.

Additionally, it is required that attendees interact with their roommates at least once during the event.

#glamcitymarseille #glamcityevent004

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batswithsillyhats · 2 months

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˚₊𓆩༺ The Flannel ༻𓆪₊˚

Robin cradled the flannel shirt close to her chest, sitting on her expansive bed, clad in her nightshirt, in the solitude of her room. Demetrius was slumbering on the couch, oblivious to the turmoil of emotions swirling within Robin. She was acutely aware that she was not supposed to harbor these feelings - not for someone so much younger than her, and certainly not for a woman.

She brought the shirt up to her nose, inhaling deeply. The scent of the farm, the fresh forest air, and the faint hint of sweat wafted up, tickling her nose. The aroma was a potent reminder of you, stirring a flurry of memories within her.

She fell back onto the bed, the memories flooding back. She remembered the fresh peaches you would bring her each day, the spaghetti you made for her birthday, the way you joined her weekly exercise class just to spend time with her, and the way you would take her dancing at the saloon. These memories, though fleeting, were powerful, evoking a deep sense of longing within her. The redhead slipped the flannel over her shirt. Standing, she reached for the door. The night had draped the surroundings in comforting darkness, but Robin, having traversed the path to the farm countless times, navigated through the obsidian veil with ease. With practiced steps, she approached your doorstep and rapped gently, hoping that her late-night visit wouldn't be an inconvenience.

You answered the door, a tired look in your eyes as you rubbed away the remnants of sleep. Despite your attempt to appear wide awake, Robin could see through the facade, finding your sleepy state charming. A soft giggle escaped her lips at your feeble attempt to hide your drowsiness, the sound ringing through the quiet night.

Inviting her inside, you offered Robin a warm drink, a gesture of hospitality that she gratefully accepted. As the fragrant aroma of the hot beverage filled the air, you inquired about the reason behind her unexpected visit.

"To what do I owe this late-night visit?" you asked, curiosity lacing your words.

For a moment, Robin hesitated, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush of embarrassment. "I guess... I missed you," she mumbled softly, her admission carrying a weight of vulnerability and honesty. The farmer's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue as you chuckled softly, a warm smile playing on your lips. "I, uh... missed you too," you admitted, your voice filled with sincerity and a touch of bashfulness. The admission brought a sense of closeness between you and Robin, the unspoken emotions hanging in the air, adding a layer of intimacy to the moment.

As you rubbed the back of your head, a gesture of slight nervousness, Robin's smile widened, a soft glimmer of affection in her eyes. Feeling the warmth of the moment and the unspoken connection between you and Robin, the air seemed to buzz with a gentle energy. Unable to resist the pull any longer, Robin closed the distance between you, her eyes filled with a soft affection as she reached up to cup your cheek.

With a tender smile, she leaned in, her lips meeting yours in a sweet and gentle kiss. It was a moment filled with unspoken feelings and shared emotions, a silent acknowledgment of the bond that had grown between you. The kiss was soft yet meaningful, a fleeting touch that spoke volumes about the connection you shared.

As you melted into the kiss, a sense of contentment washed over you, the world around you fading into the background as you savored the sweetness of the moment. Time seemed to stand still as you and Robin shared that tender kiss, each heartbeat echoing the unspoken words of affection and longing.

Notes; I wrote this while at work. (We were very slow). Divider Credit - @cafekitsune

#fanfic #stardew valley #stardew valley robin #robin sdv #sdv fanfic #sdv robin

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hetalia-club · 1 year

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Literal Translations Of Country Names from Mandarin

Or what Yao calls everyone. I need to know his story behind some of these because you know there has got to be. Some of them feel so... motivated. Not including everyone but I'll do the mains and some especially funny ones. (These are not my translations I just found them on google. And i couldn't find everyone.)

America- Beautiful Country England- Heroic Country France- Lawful Country Canada- Adding Taking Big Russia- Sudden Country Australia- Harbor Big Profits Subpar New Zealand- Deep Special Asian Collecting Tiles Germany- Virtuous Country Italy- Contemplating Big Profit Japan- Sun Base Spain- West Class Teeth Portugal- Grape Teeth Turkey- Dirt Ear This Greece- Hoping For Wax Denmark- Red Wheat Norway- Moving Might Sweden- Lucky Ceremony Iceland- Ice Island Finland- Fragrant Orchid Netherlands- Cargo Orchid Switzerland- Lucky Person Belgium- Comparing Profit Time Austria- Deep Land Profits Hungary- Hun Teeth Profits Poland- Wavy Orchid Romania- Collecting Horse Buddhist Nuns Second Ukraine- Darkness Overcoming Orchid Albania- Ah You Yearn For Buddhist Nuns Secondly South Africa- South Africa

#hetalia #hws china #hws america #hws england #hws russia #hws canada #hws germany #hws italy #hws japan #hws spain #hws denmark #hws sweden #hws norway #hws iceland #hws finland #original

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jiubilant · 1 year

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“You’re sure,” says Shiv’s father after they’ve made so, so many fishcakes, “you want to do this?”

Shiv, her hands full of cod-and-leek mince, stares at him. “Da.”

Her father spreads his hands—which are, like hers, sticky with fish and flour. “We can still eat them.”

In the frying-pan on the fire, the last of the fishcakes sizzle in agreement. When summoning one’s ancestors on a day of ceremony, it’s Velothi custom to make enough food, be it fiskekaker or a more traditional dish, for both the living and the dead. According to Da, anyway. Shiv thinks, surveying the crispy golden patties heaped on every platter and trencher they own, that they’ve made enough food for the living, the dead, and the entire street.

“Sure as harbors,” she says, and drops the cake she’s shaped into the pan. It hits the ciciliani oil—haggled in Dockside’s only Hlaalu market for a price that had made Da smug—with a fragrant, leeky hiss. “Why?”

“When you were younger,” says Da, toweling off his hands, “you didn’t—”

“—I was pit-a-pat of vexatious spirits,” says Shiv breezily, “and suchlike. Most mortally frighted of the immortal. And now I en’t.” She peers into the pan, then nods down at it. “Fini.”

Da, sensing another pun, gives her a suspicious look. Then he brightens.

“Ah,” he says. “Finny.”

He fishes the cakes out with the serving-fork. Shiv dunks her hands into the washbasin. It’s a parry, her spinnery about spirits and such, and they both know it—which is why she’s grateful that, while Da plates and she dries her paws, the space that is hearthroom and home office to the only lettered coves on Beefskid Street is warm and comfortable and quiet.

“If you’re sure,” says Da at length, quietly. “As harbors. Come here.”

He’s sitting by the hearth. Shiv sits across from him, sweeping the hearthstones with the great broombrush of her tail. She watches Da cap the bottle of oil with his thumb, turn it upside-down, then swipe his thumb—shining, now, with ciciliani—through the ashes in the hearth.

Then she gives the nearest platter a wistful look. “Kitchen-physic first?”

“After.” Da studies her as if contemplating how to do her makeup. “Look at me.”

Shiv looks at him. It becomes more difficult, up close, to look at him. When she was a scrib, the lines in his face had been fainter, easier to mistake for the tracks of a nearby smile. Now the hearthlight, honest as a scolding aunt, casts him in disturbing relief: an old man as full of grief as the cup that, just last week, some greenhand drunk on shore leave had thrown in his face.

(He’d been Velothi, that boy. He’d seen Da’s Company chain.)

She must have let her thoughts onto her face, some, because Da smiles at her in the usual way: calm and purposeful, as though he parcels out his waning stock of smiles by need. He likely does. He’d smiled at the greenhand, too, ghastly in his courtesy, ale dripping in foamy gobs down his chin.

“Chin up,” he says.

It’s a bene excuse to look at the rafters. Shiv shuts her eyes when he cups her face and touches his thumb to her brow, mostly so he won’t get grit in them, but also because the gentle pride in his hands makes her whole face hurt. A clump of ash crumbles down her nose. She wrinkles it—

“Here is my child,” says her father in the language of Veloth, with which fire converses with air. The words are simple. His voice is simple too, hoarse and glad and warm, pronouncing the prayer without pomp. “I commend her to you. I ask that you guard and guide her with love, with patience, with prudence, and that you bless her with the wisdom that you learned in life. Say hello.”

This last, Shiv realizes after a moment, is meant for her. She cracks open one skeptical eye. “To the glim?”

Da’s accustomed to her phraseology. He smiles again—softer, this time, and in the wry way that always makes her think of Auntie. “It’s polite.”

Shiv glances sidelong at the fire. For several years she’s slept by the hearth, cooked oatcakes on the stones and porridge in the pot, warmed her hands above the friendly heat of the glimfenders. It’s almost easy, she thinks, to see the fire as Da sees it: alive, listening, a door through which the dead look out.

“Hullo,” she says to the hearth. She flicks back her ears, uneasy and intrigued, then clears her throat. “Made you fishcakes.”

The fire crackles. A twig crumbles in the grate with a sighing hiss.

* * *

“D’you feel different?” asks Rafe the next morning. His mouth is full. He’s walking with Shiv out of Birgit’s, where they’d stopped for breakfast before work: hot porridge, skyr sprinkled with bilberries, bread topped with generous slabs of brunost. “Like someone’s watching you?”

Rafe’s discovered girls and gotten stupider. For the past few years, ever since he made journeyman and started earning a wastrel-wage as Da’s scribbler, he’s been loitering in taverns and letting his hair grow long; whenever he tosses a raffish, Rafe-ish smile at Vivienne Onis or some other maid, his curls flop with cherubic charm into his face. Viv thinks he’s funny, like an organ-grinder’s little monkey. Shiv thinks he should shave.

“En’t like that,” she says with a scornful flick of her tail, pulling him by the sleeve to let a carter pass. “S’like how you pray to Notorgo. Doesn’t feel like he’s got toplights on you, does it?” She looks at him sidelong as the cart rattles by. “Crumb on your gob.”

Rafe prods the corner of his mouth with his tongue.

“Other side.”

“Thanks,” says Rafe, and—with an older brother’s presumption—ruffles her ears before she can duck. Then he’s sauntering across the street, hands in his pockets, smiling and nodding at the fishwives.

Shiv, scowling, watches him go.

“Like someone’s watching me,” she mutters. “‘Cause I’m fascinating, me.”

Then, for no reason in particular, she looks over her shoulder. The nape of her neck prickles. The plume of smoke dancing from Birgit’s chimney, bending on the wind, twists for a moment like a smiling mouth.

#month of shurri. working on putting more of her story to paper #skyrim #microfic #oc tag #shurri #ravi #rafe and alf

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partyofwords · 1 month

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For a request - having tea with Jakurai? Possibly romantic, afab reader.

Summary: Jakurai harbors feelings for you. What better way to confess than over tea?

Pairing: Jakurai Jinguji X Fem!Reader

Genre: Fluffy Drabble

Word Count: 867

Warning: N/A

Masterlist

A/N: Thank you so much for your request! I love getting HypMic requests and this one was so cute! I hope you like it! I really enjoyed writing it!

It was Jakurai's idea to invite you over for tea. He had gotten a lot closer to you in the past few weeks and he really wanted to get to know more about you. Of course, when Hifumi caught wind of the doctor's plans, he tried to plan the whole affair. But Jakurai was firm in his insistence that he would handle this little tea party on his own. Though he pouted, Hifumi did ask to be filled in on all the details afterwards, which he agreed to as an attempt to pacify him.

Before you arrived, Jakurai made sure his apartment was spotless. He picked the best dishes, made tasty little treats, and brewed his best blend of tea. A wave of anxiety rushed over him and he wasn't quite sure as to why. Eventually, he chalked it up to just being anxious over spending time with someone he didn't know a lot about and wanting to make a good impression so they could continue their relationship.

When you knocked on the door, he warmly welcomed you. You returned his greeting with a bright smile that seemed to glow in the afternoon sun. Your smile and your gorgeous spring dress made his heart skip a beat. That's when he realized where the anxiety was actually coming from. He was interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with you, and today's meeting would decide whether or not you'd be compatible with each other.

You complimented his apartment, mentioning how you liked the decor and how welcoming the atmosphere seemed. He thanked you and directed you to where you would be having tea. You perched on one of his easy chairs, and Jakurai couldn't help but imagine you always sitting there, claiming it as your spot. You were sitting in the perfect place where the sun softly shone on your hair and you could see everything in the room without too much effort. It was the optimal spot for comfort and functionality. He wanted you to use that chair every time you came over.

After pouring you a cup of tea, you complimented the taste and smell of the brew. He explained how he got such a fragrant and sweet tea by combining his favorite tea leaves and getting the right measurements to make the perfect cup of tea. You listened intently, even leaning in as if what he was saying was the most fascinating thing in the world. He couldn't help but become completely enamored with you. He knew right then and there, he was sunk.

Eventually, the topic of conversation moved on to your work and how things were going at your job. It was Jakurai's turn now to listen to you with fascination. He found he wasn't bored with what you were discussing, even if you yourself did. He liked the sound of your voice. It was pleasing to the ear and just the right amount of animation. He was truly smitten by you and he didn't want this lovely tea party to end.

It wasn't until the sun was getting low in the sky that you decided to call it a night. Halfway through the tea party, when the tea had run dry, you both switched to coffee. While Jakurai himself wasn't a fan, he was pleasantly surprised to see you liked both coffee and tea. Though it wasn't that big of a deal, to him it felt like an intimate detail about you. He now knew how you took your tea and your coffee, meaning he could make you a drink and know exactly how you liked it.

Now, Jakurai is a gentleman, so of course he insisted on walking you home. You only lightly protested, but allowed him to nonetheless. Again, the two of you talked about anything and everything under the sun as you walked to your apartment. He loved engaging conversation. You always knew exactly what to say. He couldn't help but wonder if this was what falling in love felt like. Regardless of if it was or not, he knew he never wanted to let go.

When you reached your apartment, you shyly bid him good night but did not go in. It was as if you were waiting for something. And he was waiting for it too. So he came right out and said it.

"My dear, would you be willing to go out on a date with me next week?"

"Why, Dr. Jakurai. I thought you'd never ask!"

With that, you pressed a soft, pleasant kiss to his cheek, bid him good night once more, and slipped into your apartment building.

Jakurai, on the other hand, was frozen on the steps. His hand went to his cheek to lightly trace where your lips had just been. He didn't expect that. It seems you were still full of surprises with him. And he wanted to experience all of the surprises you had to offer for the rest of his life.

So with a self-contented smile, Jakurai began to walk back to his apartment, thinking of all the different date spots he could take you. And of course, as soon as he arrived home, he told Hifumi and Doppo everything.

#Hypnosis Mic #Hypnosis Mic Fanfiction #Hypnosis Mic Drabble #Anime #Anime Fanfiction #Anime Drabble #Matenrou #Jakurai Jinguji #Jakurai Jinguji X Reader #Jakurai Jinguji Fanfiction #Jakurai Jinguji Drabble #Jakurai Jinguji Fluff #Jakurai #Jakurai X Reader #Jakurai Fanfiction #Jakurai Drabble #Jakurai Fluff #Drabble #Fluff

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adventure-alex · 11 months

Text

🌟🌆 Discover the Vibrant Wonders of Kobe, Japan! 🌆🌟

📸 Join us on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking city of Kobe! 🌸 Immerse yourself in a fusion of rich culture, tantalizing flavors, and awe-inspiring sights that will leave you in awe. 🎉 Here are 10 incredible things to do in Kobe that will make your visit truly unforgettable! 🌟

1️⃣ Indulge in the Beauty of Kobe Harbor: 🌊 Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing coastal charm, where mountains meet the sparkling bay. Experience the magic of Harborland, a vibrant shopping district that offers endless delights for all.

2️⃣ Dive into the Enchanting World of Chinatown: 🏮 Explore the vibrant streets of Nankinmachi, Kobe's bustling Chinatown. Indulge your taste buds with delectable Chinese cuisine while marveling at the stunning architecture and lively atmosphere.

3️⃣ Conquer Mt. Rokko: ⛰️ Embark on an exhilarating hike up Mt. Rokko and witness panoramic views that will take your breath away. Capture the stunning sunset and immerse yourself in nature's embrace.

4️⃣ Seek Serenity at Herb Mountain: 🌿 Embark on a magical journey through the lush greenery of Herb Mountain, where fragrant herbs and cascading waterfalls await. Let the serene beauty rejuvenate your spirit.

5️⃣ Discover the Architectural Marvel of Weathercock House: 🏰 Marvel at the bold beauty of Weathercock House, a striking red-brick residence nestled in Kitano. Step into a bygone era and immerse yourself in its elegant charm.

6️⃣ Unleash Your Spiritual Side at Ikuta Shrine: ⛩️ Visit Ikuta Shrine, one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, and experience its timeless spiritual aura. Feel a sense of tranquility as you wander through its sacred grounds.

7️⃣ Immerse Yourself in Art at Hyogo Prefectural Museum: 🖼️ Let the creativity of Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art captivate your senses. Delve into a world of masterpieces and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of Kobe.

8️⃣ Pay Tribute at Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park: 🕊️ Reflect on the resilience of the city at Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park. Witness the lasting impact of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and pay homage to its memory.

9️⃣ Savor the Legendary Kobe Beef: 🥩 Indulge in the world-renowned Kobe beef, renowned for its exquisite tenderness and marbling. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure like no other.

🔟 Marvel at the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge: 🌉 Stand in awe before the engineering marvel of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world's longest suspension bridge. Capture unforgettable moments against the backdrop of this iconic structure.

🌟 Unleash the Explorer Within! 🌟

Don't miss out on the captivating wonders that await you in Kobe! 🌸✨ Embrace the vibrant culture, immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 📸 Plan your adventure to Kobe today and prepare for an extraordinary journey unlike any other! 🌆✈️

#japan travel #travel blog #kobebeef #kobe trip #kobe #Kansai #japan destinations #japan vacation #KobeJapan #TravelInspiration #ExploreKobe

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warriors-rewritten-chaos · 3 months

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Warrior Cats Prefixes- H

I had a WC Name Generator on Perchance that I made but I don't seem to have access anymore, so I'm remaking it here as just a simple list. The definitions used are the ones that Clan cats have for those things, and thus are the origins of the names. Definitions used are whatever I found when I googled it.

Haddock-: "[noun] a silvery-gray bottom-dwelling fish of North Atlantic coastal waters, related to the cod"

Hail-: "[noun] pellets of frozen rain which fall in showers from cumulonimbus clouds"

Hare-: "[noun] a fast-running, long-eared mammal that resembles a large rabbit, having long hind legs and occurring typically in grassland or open woodland"

Harrier-: "[noun] any of the several species of diurnal hawks sometimes placed in the subfamily Circinae of the bird of prey family Accipitridae. Harriers characteristically hunt by flying low over open ground, feeding on small mammals, reptiles, or birds"

Haven-: "[noun] harbor or port; [noun] a place of safety or refuge"

Hawk-: "[noun] a bird of prey with broad rounded wings and a long tail, typically taking prey by surprise with a short chase"

Hawthorn-: "[noun] a thorny shrub or tree of the rose family, with white, pink, or red blossoms and small dark red fruits (haws)"

Hay-: "[noun] grass that has been mown and dried for use as fodder"

Haze-: "[noun] a slight obscuration of the lower atmosphere, typically caused by fine suspended particles"

Hazel-: "[noun] a temperate shrub or small tree with broad leaves, bearing prominent male catkins in spring and round hard-shelled edible nuts in autumn; [noun] a reddish-brown or greenish-brown color"

Heath-: "[noun] an area of open uncultivated land, especially in Britain, with characteristic vegetation of heather, gorse, and coarse grasses; [noun] a dwarf shrub with small leathery leaves and small pink or purple bell-shaped flowers, characteristic of heathland and moorland"

Heather-: "[noun] a purple-flowered Eurasian heath that grows abundantly on moorland and heathland"

Heavy-: "[adj] of great weight; difficult to lift or move; [adj] of great density, thick or substantial"

Hedge-: "[noun] a fence or boundary formed by closely growing bushes or shrubs"

Hedgehog-: "[noun] a small nocturnal Old World mammal with a spiny coat and short legs, able to roll itself into a ball for defense"

Hemlock-: "[noun] a highly poisonous European plant of the parsley family, with a purple-spotted stem, fernlike leaves, small white flowers, and an unpleasant smell"

Hen-: "[noun] a female bird, especially of a domestic fowl"

Heron-: "[noun] a large fish-eating wading bird with long legs, a long S-shaped neck, and a long pointed bill"

Herring-: "[noun] a silvery fish that is most abundant in coastal waters"

Hibiscus-: "[noun] a plant of the mallow family, grown in warm climates for its large brightly colored flowers"

Hickory-: "[noun] a chiefly North American tree of the walnut family that yields useful timber and typically bears edible nuts"

Hidden-: "[adj] kept out of sight and concealed"

Hill-: "[noun] a naturally raised area of land, not as high or craggy as a mountain"

Hive-: "[noun] a container for housing honeybees; [noun] a colony of bees"

Hollow-: "[noun] a hole or depression in something; [adj] having a hole or empty space inside"

Holly-: "[noun] a widely distributed shrub, typically having prickly dark green leaves, small white flowers, and red berries"

Hollyhock-: "[noun] a tall Eurasian plant of the mallow family, widely cultivated for its large showy flowers"

Honey-: "[noun] a sticky yellowish-brown fluid made by bees and other insects from nectar collected from flowers"

Honeybee-: "[noun] a stinging winged insect that collects nectar and pollen, produces wax and honey, and lives in large communities"

Honeysuckle-: "[noun] a widely distributed climbing shrub with tubular flowers that are typically fragrant and of two colors or shades, opening in the evening for pollination by moths"

Hoot-: "[noun] a deep or medium-pitched musical sound, often wavering or interrupted, that is the typical call of many kinds of owl"

Hop-: "[noun] a hopping movement; [adj] (of a person) move by jumping on one foot"

Hope-: "[noun] a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen"

Hornet-: "[noun] a large stinging wasp that typically nests in hollow trees"

Horse-: "[noun] a large plant-eating domesticated mammal with solid hoofs and a flowing mane and tail"

Hound-: "[noun] a dog of a breed used for hunting, especially one able to track by scent"

Howl-: "[noun] a long, loud, doleful cry uttered by an animal such as a dog or wolf; [verb] make a howling sound"

Humming-: "[verb] make a low, steady continuous sound like that of a bee"

Hummingbird-: "[noun] a small nectar-feeding tropical American bird that is able to hover and fly backward, typically having colorful iridescent plumage"

Hurricane-: "[noun] a storm with a violent wind, in particular a tropical cyclone in the Caribbean"

Hush-: "[noun] a silence"

Hyacinth-: "[noun] a bulbous plant of the lily family, with strap-like leaves and a compact spike of bell-shaped fragrant flowers"

#warrior cats #worldbuilding

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that-foul-legacy-lover · 1 year

Note

🫧 anon here ! Thank you for taking the time to warn me, I didn’t realise the anon button went flying through the window x) I’m sending the message again o/

So, I wrote this little thingy in the hopes of cheering you and anyone who needs it up (and myself too, let’s admit it haha) ; I’m really glad you liked it ! I hope it fulfilled its job ~

Here is the thingy, so everything is in the same message \o/

During the day, the city of Liyue is always bustling, voices and footsteps merging and echoing loudly between the walls of the buildings, the tentalizing perfume of baked and cooked goods dancing in the wind along with the oh so characteristic scent of marine products freshly pulled out from the sea to be sold on the harbor, and the never ending tales of the many storytellers illustrating every second of the day. Yet it never fails to amaze you how quiet everything can be when the moon rises, the streets emptying and the noises fading, leaving only the glazed lilies blooming and swaying gently with the salted breeze and the familiar silhouette of your favorite Abyss creature exploring every crook and cranny he can find, whether it be newly discovered or already known by heart.

Ever since he took this inhuman form, it has been more than difficult for Childe to find an occasion to step outside of your shared house. It is why he is always insanely grateful for every moment you takes to accompany him during his long escapades under the the starry sky, for each second spent with you, already golden in his eyes, gets even more precious than any kind of riches Teyvat can hold when you freely walk along with him down the empty streets. He never fails to thank you again and again, gently rubbing his masked cheeks against yours and purring and chirping so loudly you sometimes worry the peculiar (yet oh so comforting) sounds will wake the inhabitants sleeping in the nearby houses. But you make sure to shower him back in your own love, even when your thoughts get plagued by fatigue (and sometimes somber ideas) born from a hard day of work.

For it is only when these melodies form the luminous echo that makes the foundations of his very being tremble with delight that you can feel the warm embrace of Peace offer a halt to the somber wandering of the heart of the Sufferer.

Thank you so much both for reading and for sharing your beautiful imagination with us ! Your little fics and drabbles really help when I feel down 💚 May you have a nice day !

- 🫧 anon, who checked four times if the Anonymous Button TM had correctly been activated

no problemo my dear 🫧 anon!! the Anonymous Button is sneaky and likes to play tricks on us!!!

nightly walks also offer you a moment of contemplation, the normally boisterous city turning quiet and peaceful- but you both treasure and despise quiet moments. while sometimes they allow you to fall asleep quickly, wrapped in a blanket of silence, mostly they just act as an excuse for your worried, fretful thoughts to grow louder and louder until they're practically shouting in your head. Foul Legacy knows when you're lost in a maze of nerves and exhaustion, when you're staring up at the stars with a distant gaze, not really seeing them at all

that's when he knows to approach you and nuzzle his cheek against your hands, purring against your touch to bring you back to reality. the tired smile you give him is enough to make Legacy scoop you into his arms, snuggling his face into the crook of your neck to make you laugh. he can feel your exhaustion with how tense your muscles are, so he sits down, in the center of a few fragrant Glaze Lilies, to cradle you close. he places his claws over your heart with a soft croon- it's beating quickly, but not from happiness; it's fluttering in a way that makes you unable to breathe. he pulls your back to his chest, talons gently squeezing your arms and chin resting on the top of your head, purring and cooing and massaging little circles in your skin. only when you turn and return his embrace does Foul Legacy chitter happily, wrapping his arms around you and flittering his wings in delight that you're feeling even a bit better

and he'll do it again and again and again, any time your heart feels heavy, he'll hold it for you and piece it back together, because there's no one he treasure more

#genshin impact #childe #tartaglia #foul legacy #foul legacy childe #genshin tartagalia #genshin childe #genshin tartaglia #chit chat #🫧 anon #anonymous button... on!!#it's mischievous that button #also this is BEAUTIFULLY written!!! thank you for this work of art!!#if you're ever feeling sad i will be here with more moth to lift your spirits <33 #short scenario #other's stuff

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istumpysk · 2 years

Text

Operation Stumpy Re-Read

ADWD: Daenerys IV (Chapter 23)

Her cooks had prepared them a magnificent meal of honeyed lamb, fragrant with crushed mint and served with the small green figs she liked so much. Two of Dany's favorite hostages served the food and kept the cups filled—a doe-eyed little girl called Qezza and a skinny boy named Grazhar.

+.+.+

They were brother and sister, and cousins of the Green Grace, who greeted them with kisses when she swept in, and asked them if they had been good.

The Green Grace's cousins are her hostages? I'm sure Galazza Galare is totally cool with that.

+.+.+

"Perhaps your gods can help us. Ask them to send a gale and sweep the galleys from the bay."

"I shall pray and make sacrifice. Mayhaps the gods of Ghis will hear me." Galazza Galare sipped her wine, but her eyes did not leave Dany.

It's the little things.

+.+.+

"Storms rage within the walls as well as without. More freedmen died last night, or so I have been told."

"Three." Saying it left a bitter taste in her mouth. "The cowards broke in on some weavers, freedwomen who had done no harm to anyone. All they did was make beautiful things. I have a tapestry they gave me hanging over my bed. The Sons of the Harpy broke their loom and raped them before slitting their throats."

I wonder who told Galazza Galare?

I seem to remember another Green Grace cousin was ordered to buy weavers a new loom.

The noble Grazdan had once owned a slave woman who was a very fine weaver, it seemed; the fruits of her loom were greatly valued, not only in Meereen, but in New Ghis and Astapor and Qarth. When this woman had grown old, Grazdan had purchased half a dozen young girls and commanded the crone to instruct them in the secrets of her craft. The old woman was dead now. The young ones, freed, had opened a shop by the harbor wall to sell their weavings. Grazdan zo Galare asked that he be granted a portion of their earnings. "They owe their skill to me," he insisted. "I plucked them from the auction bloc and gave them to the loom."

[...]

"Let us say Elza. Here is our ruling. From the girls, you shall have nothing. It was Elza who taught them weaving, not you. From you, the girls shall have a new loom, the finest coin can buy. That is for forgetting the name of the old woman." - Daenerys I, ADWD

Unfortunately Daenerys is an idiot, and never questions whether House of Galare had anything to do with this.

Even a Lannister could connect these dots.

+.+.+

"This we have heard. And yet Your Radiance has found the courage to answer butchery with mercy. You have not harmed any of the noble children you hold as hostage."

"Not as yet, no." Dany had grown fond of her young charges. Some were shy and some were bold, some sweet and some sullen, but all were innocent. "If I kill my cupbearers, who will pour my wine and serve my supper?" she said, trying to make light of it.

The priestess did not smile.

Wow, that was a terrible joke.

If Galazza Galare is the Harpy, Daenerys just told her the children won't be harmed.

For the record, I will not be applauding Daenerys for sparing her child hostages. Talk about a low bar.

+.+.+

"The Shavepate would feed them to your dragons, it is said. A life for a life. For every Brazen Beast cut down, he would have a child die."

Dany pushed her food about her plate. She dare not glance over to where Grazhar and Qezza stood, for fear that she might cry. The Shavepate has a harder heart than mine. They had fought about the hostages half a dozen times. "The Sons of the Harpy are laughing in their pyramids," Skahaz said, just this morning. "What good are hostages if you will not take their heads?" In his eyes, she was only a weak woman. Hazzea was enough. What good is peace if it must be purchased with the blood of little children? "These murders are not their doing," Dany told the Green Grace, feebly. "I am no butcher queen."

Say her name.

The Shavepate is not making any friends in Meereen.

+.+.+

"These are grievous times. Your Radiance, might I presume to offer you my counsel?"

"You know how much I value your wisdom."

"Then heed me now and marry."

It's the Green Grace's idea that she marry. That's probably important.

+.+.+

Dany speared a chunk of lamb, took a bite from it, chewed slowly. "Tell me, can this king puff his cheeks up and blow Xaro's galleys back to Qarth? Can he clap his hands and break the siege of Astapor? Can he put food in the bellies of my children and bring peace back to my streets?"

"Can you?" the Green Grace asked. "A king is not a god, but there is still much that a strong man might do. When my people look at you, they see a conqueror from across the seas, come to murder us and make slaves of our children. A king could change that. A highborn king of pure Ghiscari blood could reconcile the city to your rule. Elsewise, I fear, your reign must end as it began, in blood and fire."

I think this is sensible advice.

If she is the Harpy, she appears to be open to negotiation.

+.+.+

"Hizdahr zo Loraq," Galazza Galare said firmly.

Dany did not trouble to feign surprise. "Why Hizdahr? Skahaz is noble born as well."

"Skahaz is Kandaq, Hizdahr Loraq. Your Radiance will forgive me, but only one who is not herself Ghiscari would not understand the difference. Oft have I heard that yours is the blood of Aegon the Conqueror, Jaehaerys the Wise, and Daeron the Dragon. The noble Hizdahr is of the blood of Mazdhan the Magnificent, Hazrak the Handsome, and Zharaq the Liberator."

Laying the foundation for a Kandaq vs. Loraq feud.

If you're unfamiliar with the Meereenese Knot essays, it's been theorized that the Shavepate attempted to poison Daenerys and frame Hizdahr to destroy the peace.

+.+.+

"His forebears are as dead as mine. Will Hizdahr raise their shades to defend Meereen against its enemies? I need a man with ships and swords. You offer me ancestors."

YOU WANT A HUSBAND WITH SHIPS?

+.+.+

"We are an old people. Ancestors are important to us. Wed Hizdahr zo Loraq and make a son with him, a son whose father is the harpy, whose mother is the dragon. In him the prophecies shall be fulfilled, and your enemies will melt away like snow."

And your enemies will melt away, like Snow.

+.+.+

He shall be the stallion that mounts the world. Dany knew how it went with prophecies. They were made of words, and words were wind. There would be no son for Loraq, no heir to unite dragon and harpy. When the sun rises in the west and sets in the east, when the seas go dry and mountains blow in the wind like leaves. Only then would her womb quicken once again …

That stallion already rides amongst us.

Anyway, unreliable narrator Daenerys Targaryen. That's not what she said.

"When will he be as he was?" Dany demanded.

"When the sun rises in the west and sets in the east," said Mirri Maz Duur. "When the seas go dry and mountains blow in the wind like leaves. When your womb quickens again, and you bear a living child. Then he will return, and not before." - Daenerys IX, AGOT

Not sure what to make of that screw up, but I'm confident Daenerys won't be having any more children. Three is enough.

+.+.+

If I wed Hizdahr, will that turn Skahaz against me? She trusted Skahaz more than she trusted Hizdahr, but the Shavepate would be a disaster as a king. He was too quick to anger, too slow to forgive. She saw no gain in wedding a man as hated as herself. Hizdahr was well respected, so far as she could see.

If she trusts Skahaz more than she trusts Hizdahr, that should tell you everything you need to know.

One by one, Hizdahr removes us all. Strong Belwas lingered at the door of death in the temple, under the care of the Blue Graces … though Selmy half suspected they were finishing the job those honeyed locusts had begun. Skahaz Shavepate had been stripped of his command. - The Queensguard, ADWD

Quick to anger, too slow to forgive.

+.+.+

Hizdahr wore a plain green robe beneath a quilted vest. He bowed low when he entered, his face solemn. "Have you no smile for me?" Dany asked him. "Am I as fearful as all that?"

"I always grow solemn in the presence of such beauty."

It was a good start.

+.+.+

I can reconcile the city to your rule and put an end to this nightly slaughter in the streets.

"Can you?" Dany studied his eyes. "Why should the Sons of the Harpy lay down their knives for you? Are you one of them?"

"No."

"Would you tell me if you were?"

He laughed. "No."

Wait, let me think about this.

Galazza Galare, the Green Grace, advises Daenerys to marry Hizdahr zo Loraq.

↓

Hizdahr zo Loraq tells Daenerys if they marry he can end the bloodshed.

↓

They marry, the bloodshed stops.

+.+.+

"The Shavepate has ways of finding the truth."

"I do not doubt that Skahaz would soon have me confessing. A day with him, and I will be one of the Harpy's Sons. Two days, and I will be the Harpy. Three, and it will turn out I slew your father too, back in the Sunset Kingdoms when I was yet a boy.

The Shavepate has a talent for obtaining false confessions. Got it!

The Shavepate's voice was muffled by his mask, but Selmy could hear the anger in it. "I have the poisoner."

"Who?"

"Hizdahr's confectioner. His name would mean nothing to you. The man was just a catspaw. The Sons of the Harpy took his daughter and swore she would be returned unharmed once the queen was dead. Belwas and the dragon saved Daenerys. No one saved the girl. She was returned to her father in the black of night, in nine pieces. One for every year she lived."

[...]

"This … this confectioner, I want to question him myself. Alone."

"Is it that way?" The Shavepate crossed his arms against his chest. "Done, then. Question him as you like." - The Queensguard, ADWD

+.+.+

"Why would you want to help me? For the crown?"

"A crown would suit me well, I will not deny that. It is more than that, however. Is it so strange that I would want to protect my own people, as you protect your freedmen? Meereen cannot endure another war, Your Radiance."

That was a good answer, and an honest one.

What if - hear me out - he's being sincere? What if Galazza (Harpy?) and Hizdahr genuinely want to negotiate and make this work?

What if the peace is real?

Edit: This is not a defense of the Sons of the Harpy.

+.+.+

"You have not said you love me."

"I will, if it would please Your Radiance."

"That is not the answer of a man in love."

Jesus christ, get a dog.

+.+.+

"What is love? Desire? No man with all his parts could ever look on you and not desire you, Daenerys. That is not why I would marry you, however. Before you came Meereen was dying. Our rulers were old men with withered cocks and crones whose puckered cunts were dry as dust. They sat atop their pyramids sipping apricot wine and talking of the glories of the Old Empire whilst the centuries slipped by and the very bricks of the city crumbled all around them. Custom and caution had an iron grip upon us till you awakened us with fire and blood. A new time has come, and new things are possible. Marry me."

What if - hear me out - he's being sincere? What if Galazza (Harpy?) and Hizdahr genuinely want to negotiate and make this work?

What if the peace is real?

Edit: This is not a defense of the Sons of the Harpy.

+.+.+

"Not that way. Kiss me as if I were your wife."

Hizdahr took her by the shoulders as tenderly as if she were a baby bird. Leaning forward, he pressed his lips to hers. His kiss was light and dry and quick. Dany felt no stirrings.

I lied. He's not being sincere when he pretends she's the most beautiful woman in the world.

+.+.+

On her terrace, in her bathing pool, the little fish would nibble at her legs as she soaked. Even they kissed with more fervor than Hizdahr zo Loraq. "I do not love you."

Hizdahr shrugged. "That may come, in time. It has been known to happen that way."

Not with us, she thought. Not whilst Daario is so close. It's him I want, not you.

Doomed to fail before they even get started.

I'm going to make a prediction! When this all goes to hell, it won't be Hizdahr's fault.

+.+.+

"One day I will want to return to Westeros, to claim the Seven Kingdoms that were my father's."

"One day all men must die, but it serves no good to dwell on death. I prefer to take each day as it comes."

Lol. Okay.

+.+.+

Dany folded her hands together. "Words are wind, even words like love and peace. I put more trust in deeds. In my Seven Kingdoms, knights go on quests to prove themselves worthy of the maiden that they love. They seek for magic swords, for chests of gold, for crowns stolen from a dragon's hoard."

Trying to prove himself worthy of the fair maiden, a knight steals a crown from a dragon.

I'd love to read that story.

+.+.+

Hizdahr arched an eyebrow. "The only dragons that I know are yours, and magic swords are even scarcer. I will gladly bring you rings and crowns and chests of gold if that is your desire."

Well.

+.+.+

"Peace is my desire. You say that you can help me end the nightly slaughter in my streets. I say do it. Put an end to this shadow war, my lord. That is your quest. Give me ninety days and ninety nights without a murder, and I will know that you are worthy of a throne. Can you do that?"

He can!

What's the takeaway here? Do we know who the Harpy is? I have a guess.

+.+.+

Hizdahr looked thoughtful. "Ninety days and ninety nights without a corpse, and on the ninety-first we wed?"

"Perhaps," said Dany, with a coy look. "Though young girls have been known to be fickle. I may still want a magic sword."

Funny author.

When your dragons were small they were a wonder. Grown, they are death and devastation, a flaming sword above the world. - Daenerys III, ADWD

+.+.+

If Meereen knew that a wedding was in the offing, that alone might buy her a few nights' respite, even if Hizdahr's efforts came to naught. The Shavepate will not be happy with me, but Reznak mo Reznak will dance for joy. Dany did not know which of those concerned her more. She needed Skahaz and the Brazen Beasts, and she had come to mistrust all of Reznak's counsel. Beware the perfumed seneschal. Has Reznak made common cause with Hizdahr and the Green Grace and set some trap to snare me?

More Shavepate. Shavepate all over this chapter.

Reznak would be happy Meereen is healing, while the Shavepate would be pissed. And it's Reznak she mistrusts.

+.+.+

"It is not my place to choose your husband."

"It is not," she agreed, "but it is important to me that you should understand. My people are bleeding. Dying. A queen belongs not to herself, but to the realm. Marriage or carnage, those are my choices. A wedding or a war."

"Your Grace, may I speak frankly?"

"Always."

"There is a third choice."

"Westeros?"

He nodded. "I am sworn to serve Your Grace, and to keep you safe from harm wherever you may go. My place is by your side, whether here or in King's Landing … but your place is back in Westeros, upon the Iron Throne that was your father's. The Seven Kingdoms will never accept Hizdahr zo Loraq as king."

"No more than Meereen will accept Daenerys Targaryen as queen. The Green Grace has the right of that. I need a king beside me, a king of old Ghiscari blood. Elsewise they will always see me as the uncouth barbarian who smashed through their gates, impaled their kin on spikes, and stole their wealth."

"In Westeros you will be the lost child who returns to gladden her father's heart. Your people will cheer when you ride by, and all good men will love you."

Oh, well, if Barristan is saying it.

Her place is not in Westeros. It's here, cleaning up this mess.

I've gone from thinking Barristan Selmy is a bootlicking loser to thinking he's a massive liability that will cost her dearly.

+.+.+

"And if he does not fail? What will Your Grace do then?"

"Her duty." The word felt cold upon her tongue. "You saw my brother Rhaegar wed. Tell me, did he wed for love or duty?"

The old knight hesitated. "Princess Elia was a good woman, Your Grace. She was kind and clever, with a gentle heart and a sweet wit. I know the prince was very fond of her."

Fond, thought Dany. The word spoke volumes. I could become fond of Hizdahr zo Loraq, in time. Perhaps.

Targaryens doing their duty? Don't hold your breath.

+.+.+

Ser Barristan went on. "I saw your father and your mother wed as well. Forgive me, but there was no fondness there, and the realm paid dearly for that, my queen."

What the hell is he talking about? Since when did the realm pay dearly because Aerys married Rhaella? As if she made him go batshit crazy.

+.+.+

"Why did they wed if they did not love each other?"

"Your grandsire commanded it. A woods witch had told him that the prince was promised would be born of their line."

"A woods witch?" Dany was astonished.

"She came to court with Jenny of Oldstones. A stunted thing, grotesque to look upon. A dwarf, most people said, though dear to Lady Jenny, who always claimed that she was one of the children of the forest."

"What became of her?"

"Summerhall." The word was fraught with doom.

+.+.+

Daario. Her heart gave a flutter in her chest. "How long has … when did he …?" She could not seem to get the words out.

[...]

How could I ever hope to sleep, knowing that my captain so close? "Send him up at once. And … I will have no more need of you this evening. I shall be safe with Daario. Oh, and send Irri and Jhiqui, if you would be so good. And Missandei." I need to change, to make myself beautiful.

She said as much to her handmaids when they came. "What does Your Grace wish to wear?" asked Missandei.

Starlight and seafoam, Dany thought, a wisp of silk that leaves my left breast bare for Daario's delight. Oh, and flowers for my hair. When first they met, the captain brought her flowers every day, all the way from Yunkai to Meereen. "Bring the grey linen gown with the pearls on the bodice. Oh, and my white lion's pelt." She always felt safer wrapped in Drogo's lionskin.

It's giving 11-year-old Sansa.

+.+.+

"How many men did you lose in the fighting?"

"Nine," said Daario, "but a dozen of the Long Lances decided they would sooner be Stormcrows than corpses, so we came out three ahead. I told them they would live longer fighting with your dragons than against them, and they saw the wisdom in my words."

The more turncoats the better!

+.+.+

That made her wary. "They might be spying for Yunkai."

"They are too stupid to be spies. You do not know them."

"Neither do you. Do you trust them?"

"I trust all my men. Just as far as I can spit." He spat out a seed and smiled at her suspicions. "Shall I bring their heads to you? I will, if you command it. One is bald and two have braids and one dyes his beard four different colors. What spy would wear such a beard, I ask you? The slinger can put a stone through a gnat's eye at forty paces, and the ugly one has a way with horses, but if my queen says that they must die …"

I don't know Daario, what type of spy would dye his beard?

+.+.+

Daario tossed away the pear stem. "Qartheen have milk in their veins. Let them see your dragons, and they'll run."

Dany did not want to talk about the dragons. Farmers still came to her court with burned bones, complaining of missing sheep, though Drogon had not returned to the city. Some reported seeing him north of the river, above the grass of the Dothraki sea. Down in the pit, Viserion had snapped one of his chains; he and Rhaegal grew more savage every day.

Viserion, Breaker of Chains.

The dragons are growing more savage by the day! They're wild, they're untamed! She can't be controlled!

+.+.+

"This I knew. One of the Long Lances lived long enough to tell us that men were eating one another in the Red City. He said Meereen's turn would come soon, so I cut his tongue out and fed it to a yellow dog. No dog will eat a liar's tongue. When the yellow dog ate his, I knew he spoke the truth."

I've never been more aroused by a man.

You know who else cuts out tongues? Happy to see she wasn't instantly turned off.

+.+.+

"You are fighting shadows when you should be fighting the men who cast them," Daario went on. "Kill them all and take their treasures, I say. Whisper the command, and your Daario will make you a pile of their heads taller than this pyramid."

The next Jon chapter,

"Every man who walks the earth casts a shadow on the world. Some are thin and weak, others long and dark. You should look behind you, Lord Snow. The moon has kissed you and etched your shadow upon the ice twenty feet tall." - Jon VI, ADWD

And not long after that,

No doubt that was one reason the high priest Benerro had chosen him to bring the faith of R'hllor to Daenerys Targaryen. "Dragons old and young, true and false, bright and dark. And you. A small man with a big shadow, snarling in the midst of all." - Tyrion VIII, ADWD

+.+.+

He had been so long away, Dany had almost forgotten what he was. Sellswords were treacherous by nature, she reminded herself. Fickle, faithless, brutal. He will never be more than he is. He will never be the stuff of kings.

How astute.

I'm excited to see more personal development in her chapters to come.

+.+.+

"Then winkle them out of their pyramids on some pretext. A wedding might serve. Why not? Promise your hand to Hizdahr and all the Great Masters will come to see you married. When they gather in the Temple of the Graces, turn us loose upon them."

Dany was appalled. He is a monster. A gallant monster, but a monster still.

Alright, Tywin.

A million voices in her ear, and all the wrong ones get amplified.

+.+.+

Daario shrugged. "Most queens have no purpose but to warm some king's bed and pop out sons for him. If that's the sort of queen you mean to be, best marry Hizdahr."

Her anger flashed. "Have you forgotten who I am?"

"No. Have you?"

Viserys would have his head off for that insolence. "I am the blood of the dragon. Do not presume to teach me lessons." When Dany stood, the lion pelt slipped from her shoulders and tumbled to the ground. "Leave me."

No, she hasn't.

You are the blood of the dragon. The whispering was growing fainter, as if Ser Jorah were falling farther behind. Dragons plant no trees. Remember that. Remember who you are, what you were made to be. Remember your words.

"Fire and Blood," Daenerys told the swaying grass. - Daenerys X, ADWD

+.+.+

"I want them gone. Let them scout the Yunkish hinterlands and give protection to any caravans coming over the Khyzai Pass. Henceforth Daario shall make his reports to you. Give him every honor that is due him and see that his men are well paid, but on no account admit him to my presence."

Super impressed with her maturity here.

I can't wait to read her next few chapters and witness more growth.

+.+.+

That night she could not sleep but turned and twisted restlessly in her bed. She even went so far as to summon Irri, hoping her caresses might help ease her way to rest, but after a short while she pushed the Dothraki girl away. Irri was sweet and soft and willing, but she was not Daario.

When Tyrion and Daenerys meet and it gets awkward, maybe they can discuss their shared interest in bed slaves.

+.+.+

What have I done? she thought, huddled in her empty bed. I have waited so long for him to come back, and I send him away. "He would make a monster of me," she whispered, "a butcher queen." But then she thought of Drogon far away, and the dragons in the pit. There is blood on my hands too, and on my heart. We are not so different, Daario and I. We are both monsters.

All the memes!

Final thoughts:

Not all girls know what it means to be bound by duty. Not all girls are meant to be queens.

-> return to menu <-

#operation stumpy re-read #adwd #daenerys iv

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viatagrinner · 1 year

Text

Gilbert von Obsidian. Chapter 6. His Story.

I want to possess Miss Bunny.

My heart no longer aches when I see dead people.

(You did your best.)

The place where I stepped, carrying Miss Bunny, was a cruel sight.

I was greeted by the smell of blood, which could not be fooled by the sweet and fragrant scent, the petals falling to the ground, pouring out a spreading reddish-black liquid.

In the center stood a cruel and merciless beast in a white cloak with red spots, and I could feel Miss Bunny trembling in my arms.

(This is true. Even the prince you believe in is, after all, a powerful man...)

(This is the same as me, who can kill such people without being accused of a crime.)

(Although this is "dirtier" than expected.)

Miss Bunny is holding his mouth with a pale face.

I felt a sense of nostalgia at the sight of her.

(I used to be like this when I first started.)

Gilbert: Miss Bunny, is everything okay?

MC: ....I'm.... okay....Oh...

Gilbert: Really? Well, there's no reason to force yourself to look. It's messy, so let's not go near it.

(The more one can think of others as oneself, the greater the backlash.)

(Well, I brought a companion here, knowing that...)

While I was secretly giggling at the trembling Miss Bunny, a familiar face emerged from the shadows of the pavilion.

Clavis: Well, well, well, Prince Gilbert. Aren't you torturing our Miss Bunny too much?

Clavis: I didn't expect you to bring her to a place like this.

Gilbert: Haha, this is so unexpected. I only brought her here because Miss Bunny said she was looking for Chevalier.

Clavis: Um, how did you know my brother was here?

Gilbert: Because I saw Chevalier the other day.

I'm not lying.

I left Miss Bunny this morning to "check a certain place," which has nothing to do with the present situation, but when I returned to court, Chevalier had gone out into the garden in the opposite direction.

I have every person's movements in my head. I can easily imagine what is going to happen next...

Not wanting to miss such an opportunity, I hurriedly picked up Miss Bunny, and here we are.

(Clavis is obviously suspicious of me. I'm sure he thinks I'm the one who put this whole thing together.)

This does not mean, however, that he is deluded.

There are many people who harbor a grudge against Chevalier, and it is worth it to mislead them even a little, and they will immediately take such shortsighted action.

(That's not a very clever way to hire an assassin to attack him easily. ......)

("Anti-Monarchy" groups are not professionals in this field, and it is not an option.)

I thought that if one of the seeds I planted sprouted and bloomed, I would show it to Miss Bunny someday. In that sense, it was as good as "planted".

Without saying a word, Chevalier wipes away the blood and puts his sword in its scabbard.

This is everyday life for him.

Gilbert: Chevalier, the rabbit wanted to get to you.

Chevalier: ..........

There is fear reflected in Miss Bunny's clear eyes.

MC: Er... You seem to be busy, so I'll change the date.

Chevalier: .........

Chevalier turned away without saying anything.

(Well, I wonder what Miss Bunny will do after that).

(Will you try to approach him, realizing he has a ruthless and cold side, or will you turn away from him?)

(...Will you continue to believe in the goodness of people as you used to, or will you fall into disbelief?)

I can't wait to see what Miss Bunny chooses to do.

Clavis: I owe you an apology for showing the young lady something you shouldn't, ...Cyril.

Clavis summons one of the knights disposing of the corpses.

The knight with flamboyant red hair is a former soldier from Obsidian's military training facility.

(It's been a while since I've seen him, but he seems to be feeling fine.)

Clavis: It's almost dinnertime. Prepare a feast for Lord Gilbert.

Gilbert: No way, are you going to separate me and Miss Bunny?

Clavis: Oh. You're not exactly conducive to comforting a broken-hearted young lady. ....No, you're too much.

Clavis: The young lady would be more than happy to be alone with me, wouldn't she?

Gilbert: That's not true. You'd be so sad to be separated from me, you'd cry.

MC: I'm not alone, so it's okay.

Gilbert: Do you know the word "flattery"?

MC: I think Prince Gilbert would hate me if I said something I didn't mean.

Gilbert: Hmm...you're right. You are clever.

(Some people never learn, but Miss Bunny is a good, honest person.)

Gilbert: Okay. I don't know what mean Clavis is up to, but I'm hungry.

(....He's a gentleman, I'm sure he'll take good care of Miss Bunny.)

(It's not something I could do, so I'll just leave you to him here.)

Gilbert: I'm going to torment your knight and blind him, so get the little hare back as soon as possible, okay?

Cyril: ....Goodbye, my peace of mind.

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Before I put Miss Bunny down, I vented my malice at him for choosing Clavis over me.

Gilbert: Be careful that Clavis doesn't intimidate you.

Gilbert: He's more dangerous than me, isn't he?

(In many ways.)

The expression on Miss Bunny's face tensed, and I could barely contain a smile.

Perhaps she should have taken that warning seriously.

(No, I said it seriously.)

(It's probably physical labor now. I can almost guess how comforting Clavis is.)

(Do your best, Miss Bunny.)

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Cyril: ...I don't understand Prince Gilbert.

On the way to the dining room, after saying goodbye to Miss Bunny and the others, Cyril, who was walking ahead, spoke.

Gilbert: Oh, you mean what I'm thinking about right now? Of course, I'm thinking about the next bad thing.

Gilbert: I'll be in the pit after this, so I might as well get an invitation to the evening in exchange for it...

Gilbert: How about ...killing the noblewoman who hurt Miss Bunny's leg?

Cyril: ...Don't give us any problems.

Gilbert: Ha-ha, you're not in your place, are you?

Cyril: Or rather, not... we want to know what Prince Gilbert is up to.

(I get it.)

The capable ex-military man knows all too well what members of the Obsidian royal family are like.

It is natural to be wary of unreadable malice.

(There's only one thing I desire. ...I desire Miss Bunny.)

Not literally.

(To defile her pure and chaste heart, "I want you to sympathize with me.")

(However, if you want to meet face-to-face without sympathy, that's fine, too.)

(I want to isolate her by subjecting her to bad intentions, and then see what choice she makes).

I "desire" in that sense, but it's not something I would say to a knight of an enemy country.

Gilbert: I won't tell the traitor anything.

Cyril: ...Right.

Gilbert: Hmmm...

(I can't wait to possess my hands on Miss Bunny.)

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Gilbert's Masterlist

#ikemen prince #ikepri #ikemen ouji #ikepri translation #ikemen gilbert #ikemen prince gilbert von obsidian #gilbert von obsidian masterlist #gilbert von obsidian #ikepri gilbert #ikemen prince gilbert #gilbert. his story

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travelew · 3 months

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Why travel to Chania? This picturesque gem nestled on the island of Crete beckons travelers with its enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stroll through the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town, where Venetian and Ottoman influences intertwine in charming architecture and quaint cafes. Lose yourself amidst the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms of the local markets, or wander along the scenic harbor dotted with colorful fishing boats. With its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and rich culinary scene showcasing Cretan delicacies, Chania offers an immersive experience that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. Travel to Greece and discover the magic of Athens for yourself. Enjoy your travel to Europe.

#traveling #travel #travel tips #travel destinations #travel the world #travelew #europe #places to visit #visit europe #chania #crete #greece

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nitrochiralfan · 1 year

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Character Design analysis: Maya

Nitro outdid themselves by creating Maya. She might be the most fantastic villain Nitro Citral has ever created. Nitro Citral did a lot of things with her and excelled at it in both gameplay and character-wise.

The English version didn’t do her character justice as the original game intended to have complexity in her character.

To make a villain more memorable they needed a more memorable character design. I pointed out before that the character designs of Slow Damage are detailed about the character's personalities and lifestyles. Maya is no different. Her design, like Mei’s, made a powerful impression on me.

Maya's main concept of her design is that she is based on charm, misconception, and two sides; this goes with Maya in spades since she harbors many misconceptions about her character. There are many sides to people we don’t notice and there isn’t anyone who better encapsulates this than the main villain herself Maya.

Maya has a striking design that stands out. She wears a traditional Japanese kimono. The kimono gives Maya an unusual atmosphere since it stands out from other characters of slow damage who wear western modern clothes. The kimono makes Maya almost seem otherworldly, not human. Being a figment of other people's words and descriptions not completely human. Maya is a mysterious presence in the game only mentioned by the other characters and flashbacks.

the kimono could be a reference that she is someone important she is the mistress of the yakuza leader of the Takasato group who is seen wearing traditional Japanese clothes she was an important character who held a lot of influence in Takasato and Shinkoumi as a whole which could be why Maya has seen wearing traditional Japanese clothes.

Maya is supposed to have an image of a Yamato Nadeshiko with her kimono the way her hair is tied up along with her soft-spoken nature. That could be a misconception since she is anything but one. Her traditional Japanese kimono contrasts with the western style building euphoria she uses to run. Maya looked exactly like a hostess you would see in anime that are in charge of hot springs inviting others in to heal and relax. In her case, she invites others to expose their dark desires in the guise that she is giving them happiness by fulfilling their twisted desires. When I think about it she was a former member of a nightclub, which could be a reference to Maya's former profession.

Two things in her kimono that are prevalent in the game: are the roses and the color red.

Her kimono is embroidered with a rose on it. The design notes state that roses are a personal preference of Mayas but roses can be a lot deeper when talking about Maya.

Roses are considered for their beauty. Maya is called beautiful by others. Also, roses are fragrant flowers that go with Maya herself in how she is introduced in the game on how charms everyone around her just as a soft delicate sweet flower that lures people with her scent only for them to realize their mistakes when they are pricked by her thorns. Roses are best known for their beauty and sharp thorns, this goes well with Maya she comes off as a delicate, gentle, quiet beauty belying a deadly charm underneath. That is true: Taku and Hasegawa were drawn in by Maya's delicate gentle appearance and when you found out what she did to people around her from Hasegawa. She is even taken as a beautiful lonely woman by them.

Her pocket watch has the symbol of a rose surrounded by a wreath of thorns, the same watch she has that is used in the psychological segments in the gameplay mechanics.

Two prominent colors in Maya black and red are on her kimono.

The color black notes her sinister nature before the details of her depravities are revealed. Maya is the darkness that looms over the game and character most notably Towa who is the main figure of his nightmares as seen in the color black.

Red is the color that is used for the game's main color but it's Maya's color. Her eye color is bright red and references her bewitching and devilish nature.

Her red kimono symbolizes the game's main color in which both the game, characters, and Towa are dyed in her color. These things both note how much influence she holds in the game and plot as seen with the gameplay mechanics.

The artist designed Maya to look like Towa intentionally since Towa and Maya looking alike shows hereditary since their mother and son. She is created to resemble Towa since she is Towa’s mother.

Maya has the same features as Towa such as messy hair and sharp eyes. The sharp eyes are a reference to how dangerously charming she is and how she corrupts other people, and how well she can read others. The sharpness can reference her dangerous side of her. Her hair flows inward showing her quiet, soft-spoken personality.

One thing about her design is that Maya has downturned eyes. In Japanese downturned eyes are called "tareme eyes,” literally meaning “drooping eyes” because the eyes are drooped. When you see characters with droopy eyes you think of them as gentle, delicate soft spoken types. This is supposed to go with Maya's delicate appearance making her come off as gentle but with a deadly charm underneath her manipulative side.

The thing that got my attention the most is her glassy-looking eyes. The eyes are the window of the soul. It is said to reflect the overall feeling and emotions of someone but Maya's eyes don’t have a soul when you gaze deep into hers her eyes don’t reflect any emotion; they only reflect at you.

Maya's character is a perfect image misconception. Her design better exemplified this in her appearance Nitro did a fantastic job on this in her design, thus helping make her a powerful villain.

#maya slow damage #slow damage #character design #uiro yamada #yamada uiro #yuma sakuragi #sakuragi yuma #my meta

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