#group harmony over individuals speaking out.
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hey there, pretty boy.
▼ aventurine x fem!reader
▼ enemies to lovers
▼ nsfw themes. mdni.
you're a sultry dancer at a club, but you're actually a stellaron hunter and an assassin in disguise. you catch a glimpse of a wealthy man... and it goes from there.
penacony was the reality of where "dreams come true". but that may apply to most visitors—but not all.
most visitors of penacony come with their own wealth, spreading money in addiction cycles of gambling and drinking all night long, and even spending their money relentlessly on beautiful dancers and those who lingered around in the streets for... well, prostitution.
you were a feast for these addictive visitors—a delicious meal with an expensive price to pay.
you were a dancer at a local club in penacony; using your beauty to lure in the weak, frail men and to obtain money out of them. but you weren't just a dancer—you weren't even a dancer. you were a stellaron hunter in disguise, stationed in this dreamscape to find a certain ipc member. for your mission, it was classified, but you enjoyed the rest of the side money you obtained from these thirsty, desperate men.
as a member of the stellaron hunters, your identity was not known to the public. you were an assassin, and not even the nameless knew of your existence except for your allies... and the gods above who keep a watchful eye on these many realities.
"oh, look!" one of your dancers cooed, gathering around with the others as they squealed in harmonious glee, eyeing at a certain individual that entered the club. "it's him, it's him! he is filthy rich, and apparently he's super handsome. c'mon, we gotta get him over here with us."
"oh, he'll definitely dance with me." another dancer remarks.
"c'mon, your boobs aren't even that big." another replies.
"how would you know if he's a tits guy?"
you were on the side of the group, rolling your eyes. but your eyes settled on the blonde man's frame.
sunglasses, his beautiful eyes that were fairly hidden behind his expensive shades... he wore expensive clothing, indeed, but you knew him.
aventurine, the senior manager within the ipc.
your goal was to obtain as much as information as you could, or even better—take him. kidnap him for kafka and the others to toy around with.
well, that was just your sadistic side coming in.
but, even with your main target here.. you decided not to pursue or seem desperate. you decided to be smart about the situation, and ignore the man. maybe there's a coincidence he'll ask for a private dance from you.
"—ah, i've never seen you around these parts. are you a new dancer?"
as though the celestial oppositions were listening to you, your eyes turn, head followed, settled upon the beautiful, wealthy gambler before you.
"i'm not." you say, though your voice was sultry—intoxicating, sublime and absolutely... charismatic. "but i welcome you here regardless. would you like to have a drink? i can certainly-"
"mm, you don't seem like a bottle girl," aventurine hums, his forefinger and thumb pressed against his chin, "just an observation."
"ah, so you like to judge and read the covers before choosing, huh?" you say, glancing to your "coworkers" who had looked at you with pure jealousy in their eyes. "i'm surprised you haven't chosen them immediately for a dance. they're much more skilled and experienced than i am."
aventurine's smile turned coy, almost flirtatious. "self doubtful, are you? would it be appropriate then if i asked for a private dance? a dancer working at a club in bare clothing and speaking down on herself is a rare thing for me to... well, witness."
your lips tug to a thin smile, "it might be my lucky day, then," you whisper with your sultry tone, digits extending towards his expensive-looking attire as you adjusted it. your fingers toyed with his charms, your lips giving themselves a lick—only for show, "to be asked for a dance from yourself."
aventurine chuckled, before pushing up his sunglasses, revealing those pristine jewels of his.
"what pretty eyes you've got, pretty boy." you murmur, before taking his hand and taking him to the private section of the club.
as aventurine settled down onto his seat, you closed the curtain, turning of the lights.
"i'm sure you know the rules of asking for a private dance." you say, looking towards aventurine.
"i cannot touch the dancer." he says, kicking his legs up as he leaned back against his seat. his dazzled jewelry sparkled under the dim light that belonged to a lantern nearby, his smile still evident through this darkness.
"i'll let you touch me."
you suddenly let out, and your brain had nearly lost itself—you spoke out of your own desire, knowing how beautiful he was, but it was a chance to get information from him. yet, it wasn't long til you had forgotten your objective.
the music had begun to play, akin to some rnb-type beats that may fit a setting during intercourse. you began to move—a divine display of a goddess dancing, hips swaying and chest nearly bare. aventurine did not take his eyes off of you, even as your rear came towards his crotch, performing a lap dance.
you grinded against his clothing before fully turning, straddling him on his lap as you continued your dance. you ran your fingers across his cheek, eyes studying his.
"you say my eyes are beautiful," he whispered, "but your veil and eyes alone are more pristine than any other i've seen."
"you sly dog," you retort in a whisper as you continued to dance, "how many women have you said that to?"
aventurine chuckled, "only one. and that is you."
you roll your eyes, before you had begun to realize your goal... you were getting lost in his sight before you remembered you were a dignified member of the stellaron hunters.
that was when you straddled on his lap, again, and continued to dance... before your blade had materialized in your hand, centering at his throat.
"ipc dog." you murmur, so hauntingly beautiful. "a trap you easily went in—as though you knew of the danger."
aventurine did not jump, nor did he react to your action. he had expected it.
he chuckled, looking at you, "a trap, you say? it's more of a gift, really. a gift that i wanted, so i came in here, and..."
"you were looking for me. what a dog." you responded, feeling his breath hitting your cheek.
you two were close... merely an inch away from kissing.
"i came here to make a deal with you." aventurine spoke, "i know of your affiliation, hunter."
it was your turn to smile, "a deal with me? you're truly a gambler. even at death's hands, you'd make such a gamble with your life?"
"oh, i yearn for death, but i prefer to gamble away with you at this moment." aventurine chuckled.
"... what is it?" you murmur. you had no need to kill him, but at this point, with how interested you were in him, you...
"allow me to break the rules for a moment," he whispered, in which you responded with a gentle nod.
his eyes never left your gaze as his hands came to rest themselves on the side of your hips, bringing your frame closer.
"you can take all my money from me. get every bit of information out of me and give it to your supervisors. make me pathetic, and a stray dog, unable to care for its own. or..."
your eyes soften.
"or i get to toy with you tonight. on my bed. and perhaps you'll have my hand."
you pause.
abandon the mission and lie to the others? or...
... follow your instinct and oblige to the feeling of your chest?
you lower your blade as it dematerializes into spectacles of your signature color.
"are you asking me out on a date?"
"would i be rejected if i was?"
"... no."
part two
#honkai star rail#hsr#hsr x reader#honkai star rail aventurine#hsr aventurine#hsr aventurine x reader#aventurine x reader
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THE ENERGY OF THE SUN
One of the first posts on my Tumblr was about the Moon and all her feminine glory. How she is bold, yet mysterious, cunny, yet delicate, powerful yet soft. In today's post we speak of the the star of the show, literally. Our beloved Sun which shins brightly threw our windows kissing the Moon goodbye. For another day is to appear on the horizon, for that it brings serotonin into our body and bliss into our hearts. The Sun has been talked about, written about, sang about and worshipped for as long as life has existed on our planet. It is the masculine to the Moons feminine with whom he has created a small family consisting of a son Mars, the planet of action, a daughter Venus, the planet of beauty and a androgynous child Mercury, planet of communication. Together with their energies they rule all that is seen. The primary family of our solar system and where raw energy is bred. This star flows in the middle of our system, where it shins every millimeter, not leaving anything hidden. For it's master it has chosen Leo. A fiery and noble fixed sign which represents the king of all creatures. Leo's are in the middle of our favorite season, Summer. Where the Sun has impregnated our crops and bears fresh food to our table. When the hottest months appear, so does a infant Leo. Being the master of such a powerful and complex star, Leo's have a lot on their hands.
~Leo's are in the center of all, unironically they are mostly hated for such behavior. But in reality they literally cannot help it. It's what comes natural to these people. When the Sun shines on you, you have very little to hide. Every accomplishment is met with large praise, but every downfall is met by huge dissaprovement and judgment. So Leo's have to form a larger ego than others to survive such things out in the world. In their home life they love their family and partner to the core. Being loyal to the grave for them and not letting anyone lay a finger on them. They are the leaders of the pack, the grandiose caregivers of their own family. What they crave is affection and attention, but they also want this for all their loved one's. Even if a courageous Leo becomes a star, he is more than willing to put his loved one in the spot light. Remember that meme of Will Smith showing off Jada Pinket Smith on the red carpet, yep that's what a Leo would do (which is funny, because Will Smith is a Leo rising).
~Other than a Leo's love and loyalty, they are such prideful people. Rarely will you hear a Leo dirty talk themselves. They are also known to be overachievers, ambitious and throughout. These individuals are the emotional one in the fire sign group. They long for freedom and change, love and devotion, praise and respect.
~The bad caracteristic of a Leo comes from being a fixed sign by itself. Fixed signs are known to be very stubborn and fixed, literally, on their beliefs and ideas. It's quite hard getting a Leo to change it's routine, try something new or have it any other way they imagined it. Leo's are the one who want control over their life and decisions, so don't bother changing it. They will treat you like a God or Godess, but be sure to not act like you are better than them. They can also have a longer tongue than what it needs to be, even moreso if Mercury is in a fire sign, the Leo will never hold back his words. By doing so, Leo will have to learn to bend their back sometimes, bringing more harmony into their life.
~A Leo's house is eccentric and loud, just like them. They adore random pictures, figurines and small touches of pazaz. If living with a Leo be sure to let go and let them do their thing, I mean they do have good taste at the end of the day. The metal gold is what catches their eyes, they also adore shiny anything and diamonds. Their style is everso changing, whatever they wear the most important accessory is their confidence. With main-like hair and a wild look in their eyes they take the world by storm.
~If not sure somebody is a Leo, do not worry, for they will tell you themselves. The chatty Leo is sure to tell you all about their hobbies, achievements and goals and be sure they will go to great strengths to better all of them. People find it hard to follow up and true Leo and by doing so become bitter towards them a lot of the time. But what they don't acknowledge is that Leo's would be over the moon exited to grab someone and put them under their wing.
~Even though a Sun is meant for and it is it domicile, in detriment it falls on a weird Aquarius. Aquarians are not meant for the spotlight for they are the ruler of others, the humanitarian of the group. It is all about other and not about themselves for this a wise lesson to be learned from a Leo and also a wise lesson to be taught to a Leo. Exaltation lands it's place to a baby Aries which has much to learn but feels at peace by holding the crown. A fun way to look at exaltations if you are not familiar is looking at it like making a feist. The Leo gets everything done, the collecting, planning, organizing, preparing and cooking, but the Aries just shows up and enjoyes the feist making everyone welcome and happy. The energy of the Sun is primal and welcoming, playful and flavourful, exiting and concious, strong and delightful, but not for anybody!
~Where the Sun resigns is in the 5th house, the house of complite hedonism, creation and joy. It's the house where romance lives and where all passion and love accurs. It defins our adoration for children and where our inner child finds it's playground. This house is all about the fun and amusing aspects of life governing games and hobbies, sex and creative acts, self expression and relationships. Even though the 7th house is called the house of partnerships, this house is how things flow in a relationships. How sex and sexuality is embedded in the individual. The 7th house moreso has to do with the functions in a relationship afterwards, like a marriage. The 5th house also represents the enjoyment before the purge and structure in the 6th house. So you can look at the 5th house as maturing into a relationship, the 6th house as self improvement and the 7th as the stepping stone into the new world where solidarity is not common anymore. After the 7th house we look at our life and relations as a collective, not so much as an individual. For everyone must learn a lesson from every house and lord to become a better person, not only for themselves, but for the whole world.
~Leo teaches us to have a good time, not be bothered by accidents, expand our knowledge, fight for our ideas and enjoy being human in a very raw form.
~Planets that are welcome in a Leo's home include Jupiter, who expands this house, bringing luck and optimism into our hobbies and relationships. The Moon, bringing a firm duality into the picture, here the Moon will cater to intuition and desires into a natives personal and love life. Mercury will also be welcomed with a smile on Leo's doorstep, bringing new communication skills to the table and a driven Mars to activate all that is said above...and of course a lovely Venus to bring a seductive manner.
~But not all feel at home here... like Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto
~Saturn in the 5th house
A cold planet in a warm house is always a no go. Here Saturn cannot find any discipline nor structure nor valuable time. With a prominent Saturn in the 5th house individuals can have a hard time with playful and spontaneous acts. They can also have a great fear of losing oneself to others and not wanting to open up and try new things. By doing so they can feel like they have some sort of curse put on them, where life doesn't flow like it does for others. This placement can also indicate harder views on sex, where people feel like they are obligated or pushed to be intimate. Saturn here also delays children and stable relationships. Many with this placement can also feel downgraded and only find happiness in a steady career. This a very stressful position for Saturn with many expectations.
~Uranus in the 5th house
Uranus is all about surprises and novelty. It's a Aqurian planet. As said above Sun is in detriment when in Aquarius, so of course this can govern troublesome events into the 5th house. This can indicate a unexpected/unplanned relationship or pregnancy by all means. Uranus can also make it hard for the native to stay in relationships since he chooses freedom over all. It can also mean that a native finds independence through a lover or partner. They need a lot of security in love to strive.
~Neptune in the 7th house
In a woman's chart this can be a indicator of hidden romances for the native, since Neptune is a planet of dreams and the "outer world". This can indicate a lot of unfufiled desires and wants that are not being met since the native cannot express himself/herself directly. Love where a Neptune resides in the 5th house needs to be soft and tender with a highlight on mysterious sex. Since this house is about creativity, Neptune here helps the person becoming more dreamy about anything, such as acting.
~Pluto in the 8th house
This one is a tough one. Pluto is very transformative and needs a lot of space to get his point across. It governs all that is away, death, the darkness, rebirth, endings..etc. So not a very fun planet for a whimsical 5th house. With Pluto here it can have a very rigid and formal approach to life. You don't have a very carefree and easy going life. This placement can also mean a native can fall victim into a power struggle and feel guilty about intimacy. It can bring a lot of mental and health struggles into their life aswell. A very understanding partner is needed with a Pluto in the 5th house native.
#leo sun#sun in astrology#sun energy#leo energy#5th house#saturn in the 5th house#fire signs#fixed signs#astrology#astrology observations#zodiac#astro observations#questions#beauty#pluto astrology#neptune#neptune in 5th house#fifth house
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ACTUALLY, speaking of those tags I just put on a post:
Since we already know that The Family of Penacony is a Cult-Cult (this is not a spoiler; we have known this since 1.0 please read light cone descriptions) and the Annihilation Gang also styles themselves as a "family" with religious imagery... Are we about to get a plot deconstructing the notion of "family"?
Since the Harmony Family under Xipe is very Shin Megami Tensei Law Route type cult. Very "give yourself over to Harmony, lose all individualism and become a cog in the endless machine of God", even having a music motif that we've seen in SMT games since 2003 at the very least: this is not new ground, this writes itself.
But the Annihilation Gang are a Family-Cult with a decidedly individualistic bent. They worship The Destruction, for one- who is well known for having high ranking, empowered individuals doing their own thing. Second, it's clear that the Gang that we've seen are also fractious and self-centered. Not only does one claim that she's plenty enough for the whole of Penacony, The Duke himself clearly has thought about their unique strengths and abilities and plans accordingly: something that cannot happen if you've given up your individuality in pursuit of universal peace and coexistence.
When we then contrast both of these groups with the Nameless, the classic Found Family trope, the idea that family is not about who you are but about choices and care together, the plot seems to come together on its own. What secrets is the Family hiding? How is the Annihilation Gang going to bring them to light? What is that going to do to the bonds that tie our dear train passengers together?
We'll begin to find out in a few weeks. Get ready.
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Myers-Briggs® Personality Basics
I'd like to start by acknowledging the fact that the Myers-Briggs Test is a pseudoscientific theory/test, which means that it's not compatible with the scientific method and therefore, cannot be proven by science. This theory was created purely out of observation. Your 'type' is simply looked at as a way to understand and relate to others better.
I would also like to add that your Myers-Briggs 'type' is not an end-all-be-all of how to live your life. There's also no one personality that is 'better' than another; each has strengths and weaknesses. AND, if you don't think your 'type' is accurate that's okay! Personally, I think my 'type' fits me to a tee and I've found that others' Myers-Briggs types are usually pretty accurate; but that's just my opinion, if yours is different that's fine, I'm not in any way trying to convince you that you're wrong.
I find Myers-Briggs rather fascinating, and I like to use personality types as a rough guide on how to write for different celebrities (mostly K-Pop stars) and characters. But I also get really fixated on the research side of my writing and like to try and be as accurate as possible with everything from height comparisons to period-appropriate clothing (even if it's really not a big deal).
Anyhow...
The Myers-Briggs Personality Indicator was first published in 1944 by Isabel Briggs Myers and her mother, Katherine Cook Briggs (side note: I've been acquainted with this test for YEARS and only just learned that it was created by two women like...holy shit how did I not know this).
The two were inspired by Carl Jung's "Psychological Types", published (in English) in 1923, and began developing their scale during WW2 as a way for women to determine which industrial jobs would be their best fit as they entered the workforce.
Since it's first publication in the 40s, the test has undergone a number of changes but the current break-down includes four main dichotomies and one 'add-on'.
The categories are introverted/extroverted, observant/intuitive, thinking/feeling, and judging/prospective. The 'add-on' is assertive/turbulent.
In a nutshell: introverted/extroverted deals with where you gather your energy, observant/intuitive speaks to how you view the world, thinking/feeling has to do with decision-making and emotional responses, and judging/prospective looks at your approach to work and planning. The assertive/turbulent add-on looks at self-confidence.
More detailed notes below!
I/E = Introverted/Extroverted = Energy: How you interact with your surroundings
Introverted individuals prefer solitary activities and get exhausted by social interaction.
They tend to be quite sensitive to external stimulation (e.g. sound, sight, smell) in general.
Extraverted individuals prefer group activities and get energized by social interaction.
They tend to be more enthusiastic and more easily excited than Introverts.
TLDR: Introverts:Solo::Extroverts: Social
S/N = Observant/Intuitive = Mind: How you see and process the world
Observant individuals are efficient, pragmatic, and down-to-earth.
They tend to have strong habits and focus on what is currently happening or has already happened.
Intuitive individuals are very imaginative, open-minded, and curious.
They prefer novelty over stability and focus on hidden meanings and future possibilities.
TLDR: Observant:Concrete::Intuitive: Abstract
T/F = Thinking/Feeling = Nature: How you make decisions and cope with emotions
Thinking individuals focus on objectivity and rationality, prioritizing logic over emotions.
They tend to hide their feelings and see efficiency as more important than cooperation.
Feeling individuals are sensitive and emotionally expressive.
They are more empathic and less competitive than Thinking types and focus on social harmony and cooperation.
TLDR: Thinking: Head::Feeling: Heart
J/P = Judging/Prospective = Tactics: Your approach to work, planning, and decision-making
Judging individuals are decisive, thorough, and highly organized.
They value clarity, predictability, and closure, preferring structure and planning to spontaneity.
Prospecting individuals are very good at improvising and spotting opportunities.
They tend to be flexible, relaxed nonconformists who prefer keeping their options open.
TLDR: Judging: Predictable::Prospective: Spontaneous OR Judging: “Type A”:: Prospective: “Type B”
* -A/-T = Assertive/Turbulent = Identity: How confident you are in your abilities and decisions
Assertive (-A) individuals are self-assured, even-tempered, and resistant to stress.
They refuse to worry too much and do not push themselves too hard when it comes to achieving goals.
Turbulent (-T) individuals are self-conscious and sensitive to stress.
They are likely to experience a wide range of emotions and to be success-driven, perfectionistic, and eager to improve.
TLDR: Assertive: No stress:: Turbulent: Stress
You can take the MBTI here: https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test
It's free and even without 'premium' access you will learn tons about your personality type! If you want to learn more than what 16personalities gives you, there are oodles of resources online that can give you more insight.
#myers briggs#mbti#mbti types#introvert/extrovert#observant/intuitive#thinking/feeling#judging/prospective#assertive/turbulent#personality types#personality quiz#psychology#psych101#personality#16 personalities#16 personality types
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My Alien AU: A-dison as Alien Armada Leader and Zed as the normal guy chosen to negotiate on humanity's behalf.
The Alien Armada
The massive ship hovered ominously over the town. Humans were scattered and taking cover. Except for a few brave, young individuals. All bold with their unique appearances and willing to stand up for others who can’t for themselves.
They stood their ground as a blinding light beamed down in front of them. Three figures appeared when it dissipated, perfectly uniform with their stances, feet together and arms crossed behind their straightened backs. But the most unnerving part about these strange beings were the face guards, making them seem even less like individuals and more of just a single unit.
“Greetings, Earthlings,” a robotic voice emerged when the one in the middle spoke. “Our Armada Leader has decided your plant will be suitable for our people to reside.” The group of humans glanced amongst themselves hesitantly before the being continued. “Please evacuate the premises immediately.”
“Wait, evacuate?! You’re not taking our homes!”
Zed put a hand up to keep Eliza from rushing forward, his eyes trained on the creatures intently. “Respectfully, we can’t do that.” He said, taking a step forward. “Maybe we can make some kind of arrangements though? Could I speak to your leader?” He offered instead.
The group tilted their heads in unison, obviously confused or possibly curious. They reached up and removed the visors, their faces emotionless.
Then for the first time, they move out of synchronization, turning instead to face each other. “Let us remove our emotion suppressors to better understand these creatures.” The shorter-haired alien suggested.
“I agree. They seemed very…angry…about our request.” The male replied.
“It’s decided then.” The third with a clean-cut bob stated.
Once again in unison, they lift their wrists and suddenly their faces morph with enlightenment. “Oh! This emotion of excitement is so exciting!” The first one said giddily.
“Riiight,” Zed cautiously interrupted, “so you’ll let me talk to your leader?”
They straightened again to address him with polite smiles this time. “I am sure our leader, A-dison would be happy to negotiate terms to make the move for your people as peaceful as possible!” The excitable one confirmed.
They lifted their wrist again and, suddenly, the beam of light began to engulf him.
“Zed!!” His friends shouted behind him.
“Don’t go in alone!” That was Willa.
“Stop!” And Wyatt.
But none of them could reach him before he and the aliens were beamed up. A rush of panic flooded his system when his feet felt solid ground again. He flinched away from the blue-haired invaders.
“Do not be alarmed!” The male said.
“We are not dangerous!” The girl with a bob assured.
Zed still stood ready to defend himself so the first one took a step forward. “I am A-spen. This is A-li and A-lan.” They introduced, then turned back to Zed. “And you are…”
“Zed.” He replied cautiously.
“Hello, Zed! Wonderful! Now we are all acquaintances!” A-spen exclaimed happily.
Zed was unsure if he could trust them but decided he had to, at least for the time being, until he could reason with their psychotic leader. So, he relaxed his shoulders and straightened his back, fake smile tugging his lips.
The aliens seemed thrilled.
“Right this way,” A-lan instructed, already walking in unison with the other two. His curiosity was getting the best of him and he had to ask.
“Why do you all move like that?” When they gave him a confused look, he elaborated. “I mean, any move you make, all of you make it.”
“Oh~! You must mean our mind link!” A-li chimed in.
“The Stardust Spark we possess allows us to read each other's minds,” A-spen explained.
“Yes,” A-lan agreed, “except if we choose to disconnect. But we are a very harmonious people.”
“We have no need for disagreements,” A-li added proudly. The three of them smiled at one another, Zed on the other hand is thoroughly confused.
But before he could question it any further, they were leading him through a doorway. He was slow to follow, cautious of the foreign ship. Making sure to take in his surroundings should he need to defend himself, or escape… if that was even possible.
But then his eyes land on a figure staring out across the landscape of Seabrook. Though it looked more like a monitor rather than a window.
“The humans have requested to meet with you, A-dison.” A-spen announced, motioning an arm towards Zed. “We have brought their representative! Zed!”
The leader of the Alien Armada turned to face the guest on their ship. Zed felt like time instantly slowed, his heart skipping a beat in his chest.
The dimension in her curls from faint hues of white like the wisps of clouds dancing across a clear summer sky. Her face held no emotion but her beautiful blue eye pierced through him nonetheless. She was the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen.
“Hm, I see.” She mused. “And you wish to deter us from making our new home on your planet.”
“What? No! We don’t mind if you want to live here! As long as we don’t lose our homes.” Zed explained. A-dison’s brows knitted in confusion.
“You…don’t mind if we reside amongst your people?” She asked.
“Well yeah!” Zed breathed in a sigh and smiled at her. He could have sworn there was a sparkle that shone in her eyes for a moment.
Then, as quick as lightning, she lifted her wrist and did something to the lens in her bracelet. The same thing the other aliens had done. Her body shook for only a few seconds before her face was alight with expression.
Her eyes lifted and met his, as though it were for the first time.
“I…would be happy to hear your suggestions.” She said slowly, carefully. Zed’s smile widened. But then she straightened her back properly and put on a neutral expression.
“A-spen, A-lan, A-li. Please prepare the others for landfall.” She instructed, Zed felt the blood drain from his face and he was sure he must look panicked because her face creased with worry before she asked, “Unless you do not think your people would appreciate an introduction?”
Zed physically relaxed with a sigh, his smile returning. “Yes, I think they’d very much appreciate that.”
A-dison giggled and he swore his stomach did a flip. Her smile didn’t fade as she turned to her companions. “It’s decided then! We will beam down before the sun sets to properly greet the humans.” She said with an upbeat tone.
The three aliens bounced with excitement before disappearing out the door. Leaving Zed completely alone with A-dison.
By the time he turned back to look at the beautiful girl, she was standing directly in front of him, leaning forward into his personal space and analyzing his face as if she’d never seen anything like him before.
“I am very drawn to you.” She said, face scrutinizing his every feature. “But also very confused.” She continued to admit. Zed tried to gently place his hands on her shoulders but was instantly zapped. A-dison squeaked in surprise. “I’m sorry!”
Zed managed to right himself enough to smile, albeit stiffly. “I’m alright.”
A-dison looked at her hands in disbelief. “And now I am having trouble controlling my spark? What are you doing to me, Zed?”
He let out a chuckle. “I can’t tell you what you’re feeling,” he started, reaching forward and carefully tucking a blue curl behind her ear, “but I’ll gladly stick around while you figure it out.”
They were lost in each other’s eyes, a magnetic pull drawing them closer. But the moment Zed’s hand lifted to cup her cheek, ZAP!
Zed hissed, shaking his hand as if he could shoo the volts out of his hand. “I’m sorry!” A-dison apologized again. Zed just smiled.
“Don’t be. We’ll work on that.” He assured her with a wink, earning a wide smile in return. If he could hear the beautiful laugh that bubbled from her just once a day, he’d die a happy man.
She took a step back and a deep breath to recompose herself, her wide smile still in place when she looked back up at him. “Why don’t we discuss some kind of arrangements for our peoples to coexist in peace.” She offered. Zed quickly nodded his agreement before she guided him over to the Mothership central controls.
~*~
“Ready?” Zed asked quietly, so the other aliens wouldn’t hear. She took in a shaky breath.
“As I’ll ever be.” She agreed.
Zed hated how nervous she seemed. He wanted her to be excited! Like he was! But he also understood. Change is hard for everyone.
Gingerly, he slid his fingers across her palm. When there wasn’t a static charge immediately shocking him, he laced his fingers with hers. A-dison gasped as she quickly looked down at their entwined hands then back up with an elated smile, slowly tightening her grip.
“Hey! It doesn’t hurt anymore!” He laughed.
“I think I’m learning to control my powers around you.” She teased, making him smile even wider. With her grip on Zed’s hand, she found the courage to hold her head up high.
“Mothership, please beam us down.” She paused, looking up at Zed beside her with stars dancing in her sky-blue eyes. “All of us.”
He kept his eyes on her profile as they all began to dissipate into light fractures. He wasn’t sure if he’d ever see anything as beautiful as her glimmering face for the rest of his life. So he tried to etch it into his memory. In case he never saw it again.
The next thing he knew, they were back in the middle of the streets of Seabrook. A-dison immediately coiled back, her free hand gripping his bicep in fear as humans surrounded them. He realized there was shouting from a lot of angry humans and patrol vehicles with flashing lights that were scaring the aliens even more.
“Stay here.” He told A-dison softly. She gave him a fearful nod before he rushed to the front.
“Whoa whoa! Everyone calm down!” He shouted, putting his hands up to try and ease his people’s nerves. “They don’t mean any harm! It was a big misunderstanding!”
“Zed!” He turned toward the call of his name. Out rushed his friends as they nearly tackled him to the ground in a relieved group hug.
“We were so scared we’d never see you again!” The very emotional Bree exclaimed. He chuckled, embracing his friends, well, as many of them as he could reach.
“Guys, I’m fine! And the aliens are great!” He assured, pulling back to motion towards A-dison. She cautiously stepped forward, the other aliens moving out of her way as she approached the strangers.
Zed rested his hand on the small of her back, intending to show he was there to support her but inadvertently made her cheeks go a little pink. “This is A-dison, their leader. She brought her people here to find a home.”
Eliza took a step forward, arms crossed over her chest. “Yeah. To put us out of ours.” She countered.
A-dison looked back up at Zed for reassurance. He gave her a nod, his thumb brushing across her back for comfort. She took in a breath before turning back to the people who care about Zed, the one who makes her stomach flutter and heart race. They can’t be that bad if they’re friends with him.
“I would like to apologize for the miscommunication. We did not know we would be able to…mingle…with your people.” She tried out a term Zed had used during their discussion earlier, sounding a little unsure but quickly switched to a more upbeat tone. “But we would be happy to coexist with your people peacefully!” She finished hopefully.
Eliza looked her up and down, then back to Zed, and then towards their other friends. “I’m not getting a bad vibe from her.” She said, casually walking away. Willa, Wyatt, and Wynter took her place in front of the blue and green-haired duo.
“How can you trust them? They’ve come to take over our town!” Willa yelled harshly. When she went to take a step forward, Zed shoved himself between them, gently pushing A-dison back a few steps.
“You don’t know them, Willa.” He said, warning in his tone.
“Wow!” The sudden interruption distracting both of them. It was A-spen rushing forward with amazement in their eyes. “You have so much passion!”
“I—uh…” Willa stammered as a blush crept up her cheeks.
“Um,” Zed put a hand up to stop A-spen from getting too close, “she wants to rip your heart out.” He told them.
“She can have it!” A-spen replied, pushing past his hand to get closer to the wild woman.
Zed looked back at A-dison, they exchanged a shrug, since the aggression was defused, and let it go. Zed led A-dison to the Mayor to finalize some treaties between the humans and aliens. And once they had an understanding, both races threw a massive block party for the whole town.
A chance for everyone to get to know their new neighbors and friends.
Zed draped his arm around A-dison’s shoulders as they drank their fruit punch, laughing and goofing off with the misfit group that oddly fit in so perfectly together. He couldn’t wait for what the future was going to hold for them. Especially the petite bluenette under his arm.
“It has been so long since we’ve had somewhere to stay.” A-li pointed out as it was finally sinking in.
“Yes,” A-lan agreed, “it feels…nice.” He sighed.
“We have found our new home!” A-spen cried, happy tears threatening to brim their eyes.
The whole group chuckled and huddled in for a group hug to welcome the aliens to their new home. Seabrook was more than that, however. It was their new family.
#the alien armada#zombies 3#zeddison#zed x addison#zed zombies#addison zombies#alien!addison#human!zed#wilspen#willa x a spen#a spen zombies#a lan zombies#a li zombies#willa zombies#eliza zombies#zombies fanfiction#anon ask#kokinu09 writes
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Week 9 Fandom: How does fandom influence inclusivity in the world of pop culture?
In the world of pop culture, fandoms are links that bring together individuals who have a common interests. As these communities go through change, they play an important role in shaping the landscape on inclusiveness in the world of pop culture.
Bridging Realms of Diversity
Fandoms are diverse melting pots that cut over social, cultural, and geographic barriers. Enthusiasts from many backgrounds gather in these groups, brought together by a mutual appreciation for a certain facet of popular culture, whether it a cherished novel series, a highly anticipated movie, or an immensely popular video game (Robbins & Kullman, 2020). For me, it would be “Avatar: The Last Airbender”. At first when I was getting into this animated series I felt like an outcast. Nobody seemed to be interested in it and it made me feel alone. That was until I met my college course-mate who was also interested in this animated series. Mind you both of us had nothing in common before this. He was the quiet kid in class and I was the social bee. We rarely talked until we both found out that we liked the same animated series. Now, even though both of us have gone our separate ways we still do keep each other updated on the latest news on this animated series and both of us are highly anticipating the upcoming live action version that will be coming out on Netflix next year. This shows that people are able to identify common ground in this setting, which fosters a sense of belonging that transcends conventional societal barriers.
Celebrating Representation
In fandoms, inclusivity is about representation more than it is about size. Characters and stories that capture the complex fabric of the actual world are what fans are clamouring for. Fandoms have developed into platforms that support and celebrate varied representation. As a result, content producers are encouraged to explore and incorporate characters with a range of abilities, gender identities, and races ( McGinnis, 2021). In “Avatar: The Last Airbender”, four cultures are represented. In short this animated series has four fictional nations which are Air Nomads, Fire Nation, Earth Kingdom and the Water Tribe. In real life, the Air Nomads represent the Tibetans and Tibetan Monks, The Fire Nation represent Imperial Japan, the Earth Kingdom represent monarchical China, and the Water Tribe represent Indigenous Artic cultures like the Inuits and (Chavey, 2020). This effort for representation enlightens and educates those outside of these cultures in addition to fans who see themselves represented in their favorite animated series and shows.
Fan-Driven Activism
Fandoms are becoming into places where enthusiasts use their combined influence to promote social change. Fans are no longer passive bystanders when it comes to addressing issues of diversity and inclusion within a particular franchise or speaking out on behalf of larger social concerns. Social media platforms serve as a platform for fan-driven activism, giving people the chance to confront prejudices, spread awareness, and hold content producers and business executives accountable (Vilenchik & Schultz , 2011). At this point one can see that I really am an avid fan of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” because I’m still using it as an example. This shows how awesome this animated series is with it being filled with real life lessons and morals. To all of you reading this blog, you should go and watch it during your free time. In fact, stop what you are doing and go and watch it right now because it’s that good. So basically, in this animated series, the Fire Nation waged war on the other three nations which led to a hundred year war. They eradicated the entire Air Nomads, colonized the Earth Kingdom and waged war on the Water Tribe. At the end of the show, The Avatar liberated them all and the four nations once again lived together in harmony. This teaches us that no individual or nation should think that they are above the rest. This animated series can be used as a beacon of hope and an example for current social issues such as for the ongoing war between Palestine and Israel, Ukraine and Russia war, and the tension between China and Taiwan.
Although fandoms play a crucial role in promoting diversity, difficulties still exist. Progress can be hampered by instances of toxicity, gatekeeping, and opposition to change in some fan communities. On the other hand, these difficulties provide fans the chance to participate in discussions that advance comprehension, demolish preconceptions, and create an environment that is more welcoming to all. The influence of fandoms on inclusivity in the world of pop culture is huge and ever changing. As fandoms continue to change, their role in promoting inclusivity will without a doubt remain at the forefront of the cultural conversation. As Uncle Iroh fro “Avatar: The Last Airbender” says, “It is important to draw wisdom from different places. If you take it from only one place, it becomes rigid and stale.”
References
Chavey, L. (2020) Parallels between ‘avatar: The last airbender’ and history make a captivating fictional world, The Stanford Daily. Available at: https://stanforddaily.com/2020/08/25/parallels-between-avatar-the-last-airbender-and-history-make-a-captivating-fictional-world/#:~:text=Each%20of%20these%20four%20nations,Nomads%20by%20Tibetan%20Buddhist%20monks. (Accessed: 26 November 2023).
McGinnis, M. (2021) Fandom is love. fandom is family. fandom is representation., Mindy McGinnis. Available at: https://www.mindymcginnis.com/blog/rachelle-storm (Accessed: 26 November 2023).
Robbins, L. and Kullman, J. (2020) Diversity in fandom: How the narrative is changing, ASU News. Available at: https://news.asu.edu/20191018-creativity-diversity-fandom-how-narrative-changing (Accessed: 26 November 2023).
Vilenchik, N.K. and Schultz , J.M. (2011) Experiencing fan activism: Understanding the power of fan activist , ResearchGate. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/259823285_Experiencing_fan_activism_Understanding_the_power_of_fan_activist_organizations_through_members’_narratives (Accessed: 26 November 2023).
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Language and Identity in Himawari House
Before I start, here are the specifics of my copy:
Becker, Harmony. Himawari House. First Second, 2021.
ISBN 978-1-250-23557-2
Okay, now let's get into this!
I picked up Himawari House by Harmony Becker on a Barnes and Noble trip, and started reading it in a cafe later that day. I don’t think the cover summary adequately prepared me for the amount of depth and heartbreak I would encounter. I read the whole thing in one sitting, and I almost started crying (again, in public at the cafe) because of how bittersweet the ending was.
Now that I’m revisiting it as I write this review, I see how each of the three main characters interacts with the idea of diasporas. Each one is different, and yet easy to understand and relate to.
Himawari House is about Nao and her experience returning to Japan after her family to the US when she was a child. She stays in a “sharehouse” with two other girls: Hyejung from Korea and Tina from Singapore, and two boys from Japan: Shinichi and Masaki, who are brothers. The book spans Nao’s yearlong stay in Japan, and we get to see the group grow closer as they celebrate events from each of their different cultures. Each of them deals with different struggles in Japan, ranging from fitting into confronting the high expectations and tension placed on them by their families.
Before I get too far into this, I wanted to comment on the brief author’s note in the back of the book, titled “On The Use of Accents In This Book”.
I will admit that I was confused over the inclusion of accents in the book, but once I got to the author’s note, I can firmly say that I feel the decision was justified. Becker is right in that not only is it proof of being able to speak multiple languages, but that accents should be accompanied by a sense of pride because a bit of home is in an individual’s speech. I think this idea connects really well to the rest of the novel, specifically Nao’s struggle to try and fit back into Japan.
In general, I really enjoyed the way that language is handled in this book. When characters speak Japanese or Korean, the English translation will be below. I personally enjoyed analyzing the difference in languages, but when characters encountered a word they didn’t know, the translation was blurred out to show their confusion. I thought this was clever, as it forces the audience to employ some of the same strategies that the characters might need to use, like filling in the blank, asking for clarification, etc.
For Nao, this confusion plays into her struggles with her identity. When she first returns to Japan, she is visually nervous and feels like she doesn’t belong anymore. She has trouble understanding what the people around her are asking, and doesn’t know some little social cues, like putting luggage up above her on the train. There’s a few times where we flash back to Nao’s youth, and while I normally don’t really care for flashbacks, I think these are well done and really drive home the disconnection she feels. Nao herself feels a lot of confusion about her own identity, and this is compounded by other’s responses to her.
When a customer at the store asks her a question, Nao is unable to answer, and is called “gaijin”. When her coworker tries to comfort her about the situation, Nao asks her what she thinks. She responds by saying “Ah, well, you know…I can’t say your Japanese, but I can’t really say you’re gaijin, either. Well, you were born here, right? But you were raised in America and, uh, even though your Japanese isn’t fluent, you, uh…” (Becker 215). This answer only serves to compound Nao’s worry that she’s only an outsider to the place she was born and is trying to be a part of.
On page 216, Nao imagines herself as a child, wearing clothing too big for her, and stuck outside of a temple. This is a great artistic decision on Becker’s part, as Nao feels a lot like a lost child trying to figure out her identity. Her expression in the first panel is one of sadness as she stares up at the closed doors. The closed doors here further cement her view of herself as an outsider, both in that she is literally stuck outside, and that presumably there is something inside she cannot attain. If we think of this as a temple, which would have a multitude of traditions and culture associated with it, we can tell that Nao feels foreign in a place that she wants to consider her home. For this reason, I felt that Nao had a really interesting relationship with diaspora. Even after returning home, it takes a lot of time for her to feel more like she belongs, and only after she gets some help from Masaki.
Speaking of Masaki, I thought it would be great to bring him up, as in a way he’s a great foil for Nao. When the Himawari house residents are all hanging out, they tend to speak mostly in English. Masaki comes off as pretty quiet and cold for a good chunk of the story, but we learn later that it’s because he isn’t very fluent in English, and is hesitant to join conversations because of it. He has been socially isolated from many of his housemates because of this, as they had thought he was simply very cold and aloof. Masaki is isolated on a smaller scale than Nao, as he does not really have a deep, identity related crisis, but he still misses out on social interactions.
I think one of the reasons Masaki is interesting is because of the development he goes through. Masaki asks Nao to teach him English, and through this they grow closer. As his English improves, he is still hesitant to join conversations, even to a point where when everyone is speaking Japanese he remains silent, saying “I can’t change that fast. Everyone’s gonna be annoying and make a big deal.” (203) Once he does warm up more to Nao, he gives her some insight as to her identity. When Nao asks if he thinks she’s an outsider, he responds “That’s not something for others to decide, is it? You can decide that yourself. If you want to be here, isn’t that enough?” (226). By doing so, he greatly improves Nao’s outlook.
I really don’t want to spoil a ton, because I think that there’s so many elements to Nao and the other character’s stories, but I should bring up Hyejung and Tina, because they’ve both got some interesting backstories.At first, they both seemed like pretty ordinary side characters, but as I kept reading I found myself wanting to know more of their stories.
Part of the reason Hyejung left Korea was to get away from her parents. She had been feeling disillusioned, as she had been studying hard her whole life but never actually had a goal to reach for.
For the earlier portion of the novel, Hyejung is extremely alienated from her family, but it’s very touching to see her friends try and fill this void by caring for her. I think that in Hyejung’s story specifically there was a big emphasis on food and its connection to home. When Hyejung is missing home, she tends to make more korean food, as that’s something that can tie her back, and is accomplishable from Japan. When her mom comes to see her after a year of no contact and a tearful reunion, the house is filled with food as her mother cooks. Hyejung’s story feels extremely satisfying, as while we don’t see it completely resolved of conflict, there has been some release of narrative tension (again, I don’t want to spoil how because I think the moment was really touching). Part of this release comes from her reconnecting with her family, and therefore part of her identity.
I think Tina is the character that I really wanted more of. I felt that her story didn’t really resolve as much as I would have liked to see, but there definitely was an improvement. Tina works long shifts and deals with a lot of rude/creepy customers. There’s a pretty interesting plot point that involves her and Shinichi, but I would say that one of Tina’s big themes is loneliness. She idolizes a singer that she really enjoys, as his words bring her a lot of comfort. At first, I was really confused as to why the focus was on her and this musical artist so much, but I realize now that the point was to emphasize her loneliness, as this was one of the only ways she could find comfort in Japan. I think my favorite part of Tina’s story was when she called her mother after seeing Hyejung reunited with her own mother. The conversation started slowly, but when Nao comes home later, Tina and her mother are chatting away on the phone in Singlish, which I thought was a great inclusion.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I’ve reread it several times during the course of writing this review, and feel like I’m always taking in new details. Harmony Becker did an excellent job here, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for any other books she authors.
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Great moogly googly I make progress at a snail’s pace. However, I know what Personas to give P5 AU Naoto now. To keep up with her dog motif and to be incredibly on the nose, her Personas are canines.
TLDR: Initial - Laelaps, Ultimate - Fenrir
Her initial Persona is Laelaps, a dog that never failed to catch what it hunted. Another thing about Laelaps’ mythology is about the Teumessian fox, which could never be caught. When a dog that always catches what it hunts chases after a fox that can never be caught, it results in a paradox. If hunting = detective skills for this comparison, then Naoto is like Laelaps.
Who the Teumessian foxes are vary depending on the context. The major one, the whole reason Naoto finally thinks about the PT is because of the similarities to the mental shutdowns, which were planned by the conspiracy. Since they had their hand in almost everything, police force included, Naoto would be chasing after something she could never catch.
Second is the police themselves. Dealing with the other things canon Naoto hated the police for—looking down on her for age and gender (hits harder here since she doesn’t disguise herself)—she chases after acceptance she will never obtain, and it doesn’t help that they do not follow what ‘justice’ is.
Figuring that out is the third thing she’s chasing. She’s grown accustomed to the corruption in the police force, although she abhors it greatly, but she is only one person and an outsider (private investigator with a contract to work with them), any attempts to speak about it will be ignored. Besides the police corruption aspect, in Japan, respecting your elders is key, and Japan has a collectivist (favors group harmony over the individual, essentially) society. Naoto is very careful about her rep, so she doesn’t want to say anything that could tarnish her name, and criticizing her seniors may lead to some major consequences.
Fourth would be the never-ending cycle of chasing down criminals. More on the metaphorical side, but while Naoto may catch one criminal, there’s always going to be someone else.
Laelaps’ appearance takes on the appearance of a hellhound, as a reference to the dog in The Hound of the Baskervilles. To be more specific, that one is based on the black dog that comes from English folklore, but hellhounds are a general mythological concept. It has glowing red eyes, a little oversized and accompanied by blue (because that’s Naoto’s color) flames. I’m toying around with the idea of the flames changing color depending on what elemental attack she uses, so that’s... fun. idk
Another thing about the black dog is that it’s generally seen as a sinister creature, however there are some stories about black dogs acting as guardians, so another point to the duality thing I swear I see with Naoto most prominently.
Moving on to Fenrir.
He’s a wolf, the son of Loki and he is chained to a rock until Ragnarök, where he’ll break free and kill Odin, to which one of Odin’s sons will kill him. It doesn’t sound like a Persona for Naoto, at least until you see the part where he breaks free from chains.
Break free from your chains, embrace rebellion, Naoto breaks from the paradox where Laelaps chasing after a fox that would never be caught, for the conspiracy related matters and her own life in general. More importantly, Fenrir appeared under the Fortune arcana in P2 (yes I’m being dead serious about this) and he’s a canine and there we go.
Now at the end, if you said this whole motif of Naoto and dogs came from that one uquiz where it asked what your underlying motif was and it said Naoto’s was a dog influenced me, you are half right, but only if you’ve been there to see that certified fact. And how could I not give her canine Personae when her official codename I made up myself is Hound.
#Headcanon: Confidential Information#v: Take Over#I did my part to make myself marketable#you can't say I didn't try
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🧠 Mercury and Virgo ♍️
☀️Happy Virgo Season!☀️
✨One question I constantly get from others is the distinction between Mercury and Its Rulership over Gemini Vs. Virgo. Here we will talk about it’s uniqueness in Virgo.✨
✨🪽✨Mercury, named after the Roman messenger god, rules communication, intellect, and the exchange of ideas. This swift-moving planet is also associated with daily routines, short trips, and siblings.✨
✨🪽🦋✨Mercury, as the ruler of both Virgo and Gemini, manifests its qualities differently within these two signs. In Gemini, an Air sign, Mercury’s influence emphasizes curiosity, adaptability, and swift communication, making Geminis natural conversationalists with a thirst for knowledge and variety. In contrast, Virgo, an Earth sign, channels Mercury’s analytical and detail-oriented nature, leading to a methodical, service-oriented approach that values precision, routine, and practicality. While both signs highlight Mercury’s connection to the mind and communication, Gemini leans towards breadth and versatility, whereas Virgo prioritizes depth and meticulousness.⭐️
✨🔮Now, when we talk about Mercury ruling Virgo, we’re looking into the analytical, detail-oriented aspect of this planet. Virgo is an Earth sign, and it’s associated with practicality, meticulousness, and service to others. Some ways in which Mercury’s influence is seen in Virgo are…
💭Analytical Thought: Mercury imbues Virgos with a sharp, discerning mind. They have an innate ability to dissect information, spot inconsistencies, and make improvements.
📞Communication: While Virgo might not always be the loudest in a group, when they speak, their words are chosen with precision. Their Mercurial influence ensures that their messages are clear and well-thought-out.
🧐Attention to Detail: Virgos, under Mercury’s rulership, have an unparalleled attention to detail. This makes them excellent in roles that require thoroughness, such as editing or research.
🎼Routine-Oriented: Mercury’s association with daily routines is magnified in Virgo. These individuals thrive on order and routine, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently.
🧹💪Service & Health: Virgo is often associated with health and service. This is a manifestation of Mercury’s desire to optimize and improve. Virgos often find satisfaction in helping others, whether through healthcare, nutrition, or daily acts of kindness.
✨Spiritually speaking, Mercury’s influence on Virgo can be seen as a journey toward perfection, not in an egotistic sense, but in the spiritual evolution of the soul. It’s about refining oneself, understanding the smaller intricacies of life, and finding harmony in the details.✨
✨🌙✨In each sign, Mercury’s analytical and detail-oriented nature adapts, allowing individuals to process and communicate information in diverse ways.✨⭐️✨
♈️ Mercury in Aries: Individuals may possess a sharp and immediate understanding of situations, making snap decisions after quickly analyzing information. They can swiftly pinpoint the core of a problem and take decisive action.✨
♉️ Mercury in Taurus: Their thought process is thorough and deliberate. They excel at deep analysis over longer periods, leading to well-informed decisions backed by solid reasoning.✨
♊️ Mercury in Gemini: With an inherent duality, these individuals can process multiple streams of information simultaneously. They are adept at seeing patterns and making connections between disparate pieces of information.✨
♋️ Mercury in Cancer: Their analytical prowess is used to dissect emotional nuances. They can intuitively read between the lines, deciphering unspoken cues in communication.✨
♌️ Mercury in Leo: This placement offers the ability to analyze creative concepts and present them in a compelling manner. They have a knack for understanding their audience’s reactions and tailoring their message accordingly.✨
♍️ Mercury in Virgo: Individuals with this placement have keen analytical minds, valuing precision and clarity in communication. They naturally dissect complex topics into digestible insights and are drawn to details others might miss. Their communicative style is practical, often rooted in facts and aimed at constructive feedback.✨
♎️ Mercury in Libra: Individuals can finely assess both sides of an issue. Their analytical skills shine in diplomatic settings, where weighing pros and cons is essential.✨
♏️ Mercury in Scorpio: Their analytical talents are used to probe mysteries and uncover hidden truths. They have a unique ability to see beyond surface appearances and discern deeper motives.✨
♐️ Mercury in Sagittarius: These individuals use their analytical faculties to explore higher concepts, philosophies, and foreign cultures. They can dissect complex ideologies and present them in a broader context.✨
♑️ Mercury in Capricorn: Their methodical analysis is applied to long-term strategies and goals. They excel at detailed planning, ensuring that every step of a process is well thought out.✨
♒️ Mercury in Aquarius: These individuals use their analytical skills to think outside the box. They can dissect unconventional ideas and foresee trends, often ahead of their time.✨
♓️ Mercury in Pisces: Their thought process can dissect dreams, intuitions, and abstract concepts. They excel in understanding the subtleties of artistic and spiritual expressions.✨
I hope that gives you a clearer understanding of Mercury’s relationship with Virgo. If you guys would like to delve into any other astrological topics ask away and let me know. Just like Virgo, I’m here to help. ✨🔮✨✨🌙✨
#Mercury#Virgo#Gemini#astrology#inspecting#Mercury meme#Virgo meme#Gemini meme#astrology meme#Aries#Taurus#cancer#Leo#Libra#Scorpio#Sagittarius#Capricorn#Aquarius#Pisces
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A Study of Harpies: Bird Women of the Iliac Bay
by Viviri Corvius, Scholar of the College of Whispers
Harpies are bird-women hybrids known to wander across different parts of the continent of Tamriel. While often associated with the Iliac Bay region of Hammerfell and High Rock, they’ve also been found in northwestern Valenwood, northern and northwestern Elsweyr, northeastern High Rock, the eastern Alik’r Desert of Hammerfell, and northeastern Hammerfell.
Though typically red- or purple-feathered, the inbred harpies of Wrothgar [1] (northeastern High Rock) appear in twisted red and black feathers. It is worth noting that the average harpy looks like a younger human woman with dainty noses and many bird traits, while the Wrothgarian variants look far older and have large, hooked noses and far more bird traits than even the typical harpy. Snow harpies are known to live in cold climates, while there was also once a cockatiel-like species in Valenwood that is likely extinct now. The feathers and down of harpies are treasured for various purposes, including the making of quills or mages’ robes. They are also known to smell quite bad.
Despite their notable lack of intelligence (the inbred variants in Wrothgar being even less so), harpies have a rudimentary language that is possible for other races to learn and use. In battle and other day-to-day situations, harpy speech is also characterized by shrieks and warbles.
These carnivorous hunters and scavengers will eat any form of meat regardless of how long it’s been dead. Like birds, they build nests, circle things in the skies, and feed their chicks (which hatch from eggs) regurgitated food. They are protective of their eggs and young and often find themselves in conflict with mercenaries, trading caravans, and Argonians that steal the eggs as delicacies and prizes. This, in turn, leads to mercenary groups being hired to wipe out harpy groups. Harpies have also been known to snatch up human men – often soldiers – and fly away with them, often to breed with and then consume.
Harpies are not always antagonistic towards other races. Any individual who returns stolen eggs or protects harpies will find themselves with the favor of these avian beastfolk, who may help the individual in battle or offer shelter. Pirates, hags, and hagravens have all been known to hire, tend to, or be served by harpies. The city of Kozanset, located in the eastern Alik’r Desert, live in peaceful harmony with their local harpies and sometimes work alongside them to protect the city.
Despite being shunned by the faithful of Tava, the Redguard spirit of the air and goddess of weather, harpies are associated with a number of Aedra and Daedra. Kynareth, Mara, Dibella (who, noticeably, does not shun the love of harpies with other races), Zenithar, and even the Daedra Nocturnal by the name Noctyr-a have been associated with harpies or encourage the learning of their language and customs. The stories told by harpies about their fore-mothers speak of Daedra-worshiping humans in Lainlyn (located at the northern coast of the Alik’r Desert in Hammerfell) who were magically transformed into the first harpies by an otherwise unknown magic robe. The location of this city explains the disdain of the Redguard figure Tava towards the harpies because of the actions of this Noctyr-a cult many years ago. Interestingly, in the origin story of the harpies, Noctyr-a is depicted not as a goddess, but as a mortal who turns into the first black-feathered harpy.
Among themselves, harpies create matriarchal but primitive groups led by the oldest and most powerful individuals. The other harpies in these groups venerate and congregate around these older and more powerful matriarchs. While all harpies have some level of control over the air and wind, only older ones have the power of lightning at their talon-tips. No harpies to date have been known to dabble in other Destruction elements (fire and frost), though there have been arguments that proper magic and spells would go right over the heads of harpies.
[1] It is unknown how harpies, an all-female species, can become “inbred”. My colleague suggested that they were interbreeding with their human half-brothers or other relatives.
Sources
Lore: Harpy
Lore: Ghraewaj
Online: Harpy [along with all of the harpy subtype pages connected to this one]
Daggerfall: Harpy (skill)
I hope you enjoyed this post, it's part of a new thing I'm doing on this blog to justify the in-game lore posts I make. Please enjoy learning from and about the College of Whispers staff, scholars, and students! Naturally the sources part doesn't exist in Viviri's paper.
#the elder scrolls#elder scrolls paganism#elder scrolls witchcraft#jasper post#in-game lore#from the college of whispers library#scholar viviri corvius#harpy
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World Religion Day
World Religion Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in January every year, and is a reminder of the need for harmony and understanding between religions and faith systems. On this day, communities of different faiths have the opportunity to get together and listen to each other, as well as celebrate the differences and commonalities that the delicate intermingling of culture and religion brings. There are approximately 4,200 religions around the world. While many people live their lives without religion, faith in a higher being or power works for the majority of people. Whatever the reasons, we are all for the idea of people being unified despite differences, and celebrating them.
History of World Religion Day
The first official observance of World Religion Day (as it is known today), was in 1950, but the concept began a few years prior to that. In Portland, Maine, the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’í Faith hosted a talk in Eastland Park Hotel in October 1947, culminating in the decision to observe an annual event, then known as World Peace Through World Religion. By 1949, the event began to be observed in other parts of the U.S. and grew more popular. By 1950, it came to be known as World Religion Day. On this day, at various different locations, many authors, educators, and philosophers are invited to speak on world religions and the importance of establishing and maintaining harmony between them. It’s a great forum for learning more about other religions and cultures too, and a chance to intermingle socially with people of different faiths and worldviews.
Since this concept was the brainchild of people from the Bahá’í Faith, it is worth exploring what this faith is and tracing its historical roots. As a religion, Bahá’í first emerged in Persia (modern-day Iran), in the 1800s. There are three core principles of this faith — unity of God, unity of religion, and unity of all mankind. It is a monotheistic faith, believing in a single god, and that the spiritual aspects of all religions in this world stem from this single god. Another central tenet is the belief in the innate equality of all human beings. Thus, all humans have the same rights and responsibilities. If you look at it, the Bahá’í Faith is an all-encompassing one that recognizes the commonalities between all religions, so Baháʼí believes that all faiths have common spiritual goals too, especially since religions are ever-evolving.
World Religion Day timeline
1800s The Baha`i Faith is Established
In Persia, around 1844, the Bahá'í Faith is established by a mix of people from Christian, Jewish, and Zoroastrian religious roots.
1949 World Peace Through World Religion
The first event takes place in Portland, Maine, to establish the foundation of World Religion Day.
1950 World Religion Day is First Observed
As World Peace Through World Religion begins to spread across the U.S., the celebration morphs into World Religion Day.
1957 Bahá'í Leadership Passes on to a Group
Rather than passing on from individual to individual, the death of Shoghi Effendi leads to the faith leadership passing to the Universal House of Justice.
World Religion Day FAQs
How many religions are there in the world?
Many scholars estimate that there are approximately 4,200 different active religions in the world today.
How many countries celebrate World Religion Day?
World Religion Day is currently celebrated in over 80 countries around the globe.
Which religion has the most adherents?
Christianity tops the list, with a whopping 2,3 billion. Next comes Islam with 1,8 billion. Third on the list are those unaffiliated with any particular religion, at 1,2 billion.
How to Observe World Religion Day
Attend an interfaith event
Engage with other religions
Try out a different religious experience
Many different organizations hold interfaith events on this day, where people can get together and hear about the beliefs and philosophies held by others of different faiths. These events are great spaces for eminent speakers, writers, and spiritual leaders to share openly about what they subscribe to, and why.
World Religion Day provides the perfect opportunity for people to step out of their individual bubbles and engage with the beliefs and spiritual ideologies of others. It’s about dialogue and the freedom to both express and listen; most importantly, it’s a time to learn from each other. This day reminds us that religion does not have to be a taboo subject, and everyone has a unique story to tell.
Religion is often inextricably linked with culture, so why not experience the best of both by attending a religious event of some sort, outside of your own? Whether it is going to a mosque or temple, or celebrating a religious festival you are not familiar with, it’s a great way to make inroads into different community groups and build relationships.
5 Facts About World Religions You May Not Know
You name it, there’s a patron saint for it
Wicca is not an ancient religion
Mormons have limited beverage options
The “Qur’an” mentions Jesus more than Muhammad
Hindus can also be atheists
In Catholicism, there is a patron saint for nearly everything, including coffee, beekeepers, and headaches.
Though it sounds like it would be ancient, considering its roots in European fertility cults, Wicca was introduced in the 1950s.
Mormons are forbidden from drinking beverages like tea, coffee, or alcohol; soda, however, seems to be okay.
Though this is not a popularity contest, the “Qur’an” apparently mentions Jesus Christ five times more than Muhammad.
While Hinduism is a polytheistic religion, it is also possible to be a practicing Hindu and an atheist — the moral and ethical code remains the same.
Why World Religion Day is Important
It purports to unite people
Interfaith harmony
A chance to experience something different
We love any day that seeks to bring people together, irrespective of differences, and this day fits the bill exactly. Whatever one’s religious beliefs and culture, the longing for acceptance and unity will be a fundamentally human one that unites us already.
World Religion Day offers people across the globe a chance to get to know others of different religions better, and seeks to foster a better understanding of religious differences through peaceful means such as dialogue.
The various interfaith and religious events organized by communities around the world are an exciting opportunity and opening for people to immerse themselves in spiritual experiences different from what they know. And so much of it is cultural that we see it as a win-win.
Source
#Seville Cathedral#Salt Lake Temple#Spain#Salt Lake City#Sweden#USA#Fredrikskyrkan Church#Karlskrona#original photography#architecture#cityscape#tourist attraction#landmark#Temple Emanu-El#Miami Beach#Temple Adath Yeshurun#Saint George Tropoforos Hellenic Orthodox Church#Syracuse#New York City#St. Patrick's Cathedral#Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal#Amman#World Religion Day#15 January 2023#third Sunday in January
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The Angel Number 6666 Meaning - Symbolism and Spirituality
Divine forces are consistently with you, pushing you in the correct direction or, in any event, advance notice of future occasions. Yet, you should interpret and comprehend these enchanted messages sent by guardian angels in the event that you wish to have a superior understanding of your life's motivation.
The fascinating peculiarity commonly known as "angel numbers" — that is, rehashing number groupings — comprises messages from your angels intended to direct, direct, and safeguard you in the physical as well as the otherworldly domain.
The angels send you a significant message utilizing the number 6666. It addresses equilibrium, information, and the appearance of better needs. A sign you're going to encounter dynamic energy that will require an unanticipated change.
Angel number 6666 consoles you that you are doing great in your excursion toward edification and achievement. In any case, it additionally reinforces the possibility of not becoming excessively familiar with your advancement since there is dependably an opportunity to get better. Besides, by focusing on this guidance, you can try not to fall into a misguided feeling of carelessness.
Meaning of Angel Number 6666
Angel number 6666 brings an update that you are consistently on the correct path throughout everyday life, regardless of how troublesome things might appear at some random time. This number is a delicate bump to relinquish any self-uncertainty or sensations of vulnerability you might have and reaffirm your confidence in yourself.
This angelic number has shown up now on the grounds that the divine realm needs to tell you that, in spite of any difficulties or hardships that might be encountered, everything will ultimately pan out for the best over the long haul.
This number is a mark of dependability. You have almost certainly encountered a few disturbances in your day-to-day existence. The angels send you this number as a sign that you'll encounter some equilibrium in your own life. You will partake in some monetary soundness as well as a steady love life.
This number additionally conveys the energy of overflow, thriving, and favorable luck. All in all, assuming you've been needing to show your fantasies into the real world, this is an indication that your angels are assisting you with doing precisely that!
Angel number 6 will show up in your life right when you begin to destroy the harmony and agreement that you have in your life. Angel number 66 is related to overflow and inventive energy. This number additionally has something to do with good faith and positive reasoning. Angel number 666 might be connected with supporting and aiding others. You have a few unique abilities, and you should help the individuals around you.
Spiritual Meaning of Angel Number 6666
Spiritually speaking, the number 6666 demonstrates that your instincts are exceptionally strong and that you ought to be more certain about your convictions and thoughts. It urges you to assume a sense of ownership of your life and begin making changes to work on your life.
The spiritual meaning of angel number 6666 is intently attached to your divine reason and the significance of your spiritual turn of events. You may be feeling somewhat lost or confounded right now, yet your archangels are with you constantly.
The best thing to do is reach out to your spiritual side and let your instincts aid you in this spiritual experience.
Symbolism of Angel Number 6666
The secret imagery of 6666 is related earnestly to individual flexibility, and assuming that you're seeing this number, it's an update that you have the ability to shape your own predetermination.
6666 is an image of your fortitude, assurance, and fearlessness. Assuming you see this number more than once, it is an indication of favorable luck since it shows that your subconscious mind is encouraging you to assume responsibility for your life and begin pushing toward the acknowledgment of your objectives.
As people, we, as a whole, include the power inside us to pursue our own choices and assume command over our lives. It depends on every single one of us to figure out what we need from life and work towards accomplishing our objectives.
When individuals meet up and impart their affection and benevolence to each other, they can get astounding things done. This is on the grounds that, together, we are more grounded than at any other time envisioned.
This implies that when you see this number, it's a sign from the universe letting you know that it's the ideal opportunity for you to get out there and begin communicating with others, as in doing as such, you might just meet somebody who will change your life for eternity.
Angel Number 6666 Meaning in Love
The angelic number 6666 is an incredibly sure sign when it comes to love.
The significance of the angel number 6666 is that it's an image of a twin flame relationship and a perfect partner, so assuming you've been single for some time, this could be an indication that you're going to have a positive change in your love life.
6666 is encouraging you to focus harder on your partner. Your heavenly messengers know about your nonattendance because of the existence of your adored one. They likewise maintain that you should be more responsive to the friendship you get from others.
Revealing a weak side and communicating your actual sentiments to your partner is something that will inspire you to attract the force of genuine love in your relationship.
Take 6666 as a sign to fulfill recollections, revive the relationship, and recover energy.
Angel Number 6666 Meaning in Law of Attraction
The law of attraction is the conviction that by zeroing in on positive or negative contemplations, you can achieve positive or negative outcomes. At the end of the day, the more you ponder positive things and have a positive disposition, the more positive results will come your way.
Angel Number 6666 is a consolation that your commitment, energy, and unwaveringness have not slipped through the cracks. This number shows that you are going to arrive at a basic point in your excursion where things could go one way or the other.
The angels are encouraging you to keep your considerations zeroed in on what you need and not let uncertainty or pessimism pull you away from your objectives.
This is only a little open door, so capitalize on it by keeping your expectations solid, picturing what you need, and trusting in yourself and your fantasies. Assuming you continue onward with confidence, difficult work, and conviction, it will work out!
Final Thoughts
When you see the 6666 angel number, it's a signal from your angels to fall in line with your life's motivation.
You will be denied internal quietness and satisfaction in the event that you place an excess of emphasis on materialistic things.
When you over and over run over the 6666 angel number, be cautious and aware of what your contemplations spin around and where you are directing the greater part of your energy.
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Introversion and Japan
My Query:
Does Japan have kind of a complex relationship with introversion? Like, on one hand, they're a bit more community oriented - but, on the other hand, there are also more situations where people are expected to keep quiet?
~~~~~
Claude-3-Haiku's Response:
You raise an interesting point about Japan's complex relationship with introversion. There does seem to be some tension between the cultural emphasis on community and social harmony, and the social expectations around when one should speak up or remain quiet.
On one hand, Japan is often characterized as a more collectivist culture, where the needs of the group and social cohesion are prioritized over individual expression. This can create an environment where there is more pressure to conform and "fit in" with the group. Introverted tendencies that don't align with this communal ethos may not always be as accepted or celebrated.
However, Japan also has a strong tradition of valuing quiet contemplation, restraint, and deference to social hierarchies. In certain contexts, such as formal business settings or interactions with elders, there are clear social norms around when one should remain silent and avoid standing out. This creates spaces where introversion and quietness may be more welcomed or even expected.
So in a sense, Japan seems to have a bit of a dual relationship with introversion. While the communal culture can sometimes make introverted personalities feel out of place, the social emphasis on discretion and propriety also carves out spaces where introverted behaviors may be seen as more appropriate and even desirable.
It's a complex dynamic that likely varies depending on the specific context and social setting. But you've highlighted an interesting tension in Japanese culture around when introversion is acceptable or problematic. It speaks to the nuances in how different societies grapple with the balance between individual expression and communal harmony.
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LOVE AT FIRST BITE. LOST CHAPTER #I.
♱⃬ ͏ ⠆ WHEN SCARLET EYES PIERCES THROUGH. a dance in the ballroom could result such a fateful encounter against a young and handsome vampire whose scarlet eyes pierces through the existence of a vampire hunter of a mere girl.
🦇 ͏⠆ ooc zuko (charming and seductive for the trait of a vampire), blade stabbing through skin, blood sucking, a false alias used for reader. 1900+ words.
taglist ⌇ @steleir @tojiluv @ellzbellz @theblueslytherin @krokietino @purplepursepaint @katiemrty @saturvue @tsxkkis @httpshujii @syomi @tnt-kokoo @suniika @camilo-uwu @mimifoodlover @whynotelli @rollssas (taglist is opened)
YEAR 1769, SOMEWHERE IN ROMANIA. around the quiet and deserted streets of the country, there is life. life in the form of night. now the sun had set long and the moon rose to illuminate its silver hues onto the world as if it is to watch after every living being that wanders around the soils of the earth and the sea creatures to swim their way or the air creatures to fly their way through the solemn night.
while diurnals are deep in slumber and the nocturnals have opened their eyes to continue their life in the calm of night, there are some diurnals who stayed awake.
like a little boy that couldn't sleep with the cold wind giving him chilly kisses on his skin… or a lonely widow who sat by her balcony reminiscing the presence of her deceased husband.
there is also the people of the day who are awake at night, perfectly blending among the people of the night, unseen and unscathed. smart enough to be amongst the dead souls of the earth. the dead souls of the earth who are very well and alive.
some are gathered elsewhere, whereas some are gathered in one big hall. monsters, spirits, ghouls and whatnot are all in the same hall under the transformation of a disguise as humans who are alive in the morning. now the creatures of the night have stolen their identity and are all breathing the same eerie air right this moment.
very common ballroom music of the royalty is played with a group of musicians who dragged their sticks against strings and singers who occasionally sing in harmony, their voices so bloody and terrifying that even the spiders on one's back felt a shiver or two.
this is the party of the princess of the night, azula of dark romania. she whose birthday just turned a few hundred years and it was obviously not her idea to hold such a big and ridiculous party where she doesn't even know half of the hall’s faces except for a few associates. royal associates.
princess azula of the vampires who rules over the female vampires. a dark and cruel princess, some would say. but truly, her nature is of a vampire. it is to be expected for cruelty in some princesses over the generations.
her dark scarlet eyes followed around random creatures in the hall and eventually, it landed on her elder brother. her brother who seemed to be carrying out his common activities of unintentionally charming women just by him being in their presence.
how is such a creature like him be so likable despite him being almost the same as azula? why does he have a crowd surrounding him and not her? she doesn't really understand it, but she knows not to care anymore whenever he has more social interactions than her.
however... the female creature that azula’s brother seemed to be speaking to is odd. it is faint, but she could pick up a smell of a pure human scent coming from the female creature. perhaps it's the human skin she wore that emits the scent, but something tickles at the skin of azula that the girl does not belong here.
oh well. most of the creatures do not belong here anyways. so it is not that big of a deal to feel something odd coming from a creature. in fact, it is a great thing to feel oddness from an individual. it makes them feel like they belong to the night more than anything else.
vampire princess azula simply shrugged it off and went to get herself a cup of eyeball blood juice to quench her thirst from the human-dripping scent.
the cold yet somewhat blazing hot fingers of the man gently held the fingers of the warm in the air, the other hand on the waist of the warm, guiding the waist around the marble floor where hundreds of feet are also moving and dancing around.
quite a brownish scarlet hue for a vampire eyes bore into the soul of the opposite creature from the vampire.
he knows.
the prince who held your hands with care and guided you around like a fragile little princess knows. of course. he is the only one in the lineage with the biggest lust for blood yet also the only one who can also control his thirst for human liquid with such ease and resistance.
but for the sake of peace in his sister's party. he does not pursue his want for some blood tonight. well, maybe not in front of her or anything in the perimeter of the castle where he could be seen with the human he dances with. for the prince does not want a commotion nor anyone trying to take his prey away from him.
it would be a shame to be discovered over the metallic scent of human blood leaking all over the dense and cold air. these creatures are all lustful for human presence. their main prey is the human who does not slumber at night and chooses to be walking around in complete darkness. such imbeciles gamble with the grim reaper who awaits the perfect moment to grab their souls into the underworld.
he looked at you and gave you a tiny little smile, not very much fond of smiling at girls in the ballroom whose name he didn't even know. but he knows your name, it is lady noire of the valentino family. the prince has asked for your name the moment he sets his eyes on you, soul or soulless.
such innocence that displays over your gaze right at the prince of dark romania, as if you haven't seen the horrors that he can commit. everyone in the world of darkness knows him, vampire prince zuko. the firstborn son of the vampire lord ozai, brother of princess azula.
zuko slowly danced you out of the ballroom. then, once again with much gentleness, he took your hands and led you to wherever he had in mind. whether it be the castle gardens or the kitchen tables. it does not matter when all the prince wants is a lick on your skin and a tiny little stab against your skin.
truly every single woman he knows will foolishly follow him in his lead and zuko will surely make the time worth it. not a single woman has failed at allowing the prince to strike his fangs under their skin. not this time either.
for under the moonlight, he once again treated a source of food with care— undressing the collar of her dress to let it slide down the smoothness of her shoulders. zuko does this one thing with every other blood carriers. he would cover their mouth shut and begin his feast.
but for tonight, he felt like doing something special, something he's never done before. what exactly did vampire prince zuko do that was so different from every other of his acts?
he did not cover the mouth of the valentino daughter in order to let her cries echo through the night.
what a move for a true vampire. he finally proves himself to be the perfect vampire his father has always wanted him to be. to let the screams and cries of the victim be carried through the wind and all around.
however, you did not even part your lips. they are sealed shut. like candle waxes sealing a letter before they are handed in to be sent to the recipient. how brave you are, little one, to not part cry out loud as a vampire sinks his ferocious fangs into your pretty skin. it wouldn't be so pretty anymore if there are two fang marks that will never disappear.
is that a wise idea? to bear the pain and only sealed your eyes shut instead of opening your mouth to scream in pain?
vampire prince zuko occasionally kissed your neck as he sucked on your blood. he enjoys every moment of it. from the moment he sunk his teeth into your skin and his fangs worked their way through to collect blood into his mouth. even the two small kisses every five seconds.
he loves it.
“you are fit for a king. your blood… one of a kind. how rare to have such a sweet flavour dancing around my tongue, lady noire,” zuko murmurs against your skin and plants a kiss on your neck, his breath hitching against your skin.
you move a little in your spot, locked against a tree that has to see through the entire process of a vampire feasting on an innocent soul.
“your highness, why do you not report me immediately?” you questioned as zuko released his fangs from your skin, licking off the excess blood from your wound. he then looked at you with lustful scarlet eyes.
“because i know you'll taste good,” zuko wipes his mouth with a finger. “and i was right.”
“are you going to let me go?”
the prince nods. “once—”
stab.
a burn ignited from the spot where a pure and blessed silver knife is stabbed at the sides of the vampire prince.
“you're reveling in the flavour of my blood until you forget to assume that some humans are not fans of vampires,” you looked at the prince, those same innocent eyes flashing right into his gaze as he grabbed your hand where you stuck the blade into his skin.
“you— who are you…?” zuko choked out, resisting the burn as he fought with it, grip loosening on your hands. you quickly let go of the silver knife just as he pulled it out and tossed it away.
“y/n silvernalle, vampire hunter,” you tore the thin layer of big puffy skirt that you wore to reveal a number of vampire repellents strapped all over your bare legs.
zuko saw them and chuckled, before breaking out into laughter. “silvernalle? what an honour to be graced by a silvernalle’s presence.” his hands covered the wound as his burned skin recovered extremely quickly. “but you silvernalles have a long way to go before you can erase my existence.”
you clicked your tongue and pointed another silver dagger right at him. “i am here to change that, vampire.”
all the prince did was sigh. “it's a shame you're a hunter. you could've been something to me. i enjoy the taste of your blood, m’lady. but i don't want to meddle with a troublesome human. until next time, lady y/n.”
vampire prince zuko shoots a tiny smile and takes a step back before he disappears into the night, a chance to eliminate another vampire has already escaped from your grasp. here you are, with another failed mission as an honourary silvernalle, the main reason of a vampire's death.
the moon shines beauty on the silver weapon now laying on the grass and stained with the blood of zuko. your fingers that zuko had caressed and treated with gentleness picked up the blade, teeth gritting.
“i will kill you, vampire prince zuko.”
zuko felt a chill crawl down his spine. a smug little smirk reincarnated after centuries of feeling mere boredom with existence. life should be a little more entertaining now with a young and beautiful vampire hunter right at his heart.
© SAINTARC. LOVE AT FIRST BITE 2024. DO NOT REPOST OR ALTER.
#♱⃬ ͏⠆ ͏love at first bite#zuko#prince zuko#atla zuko#zuko x reader#zuko x y/n#zuko x you#avatar the last airbender#avatar the last airbender zuko#🎥 . . xwrites#fire lord zuko
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best suits for men in bangalore
INTRODUCTION
TRENDING TRADITIONAL WEARS FOR EVERY FESTIVE OCCASION:
Embracing ethnic and traditional wear is a perennial style choice. Donning traditional Indian-inspired clothing offers a distinctive way for men to stand out and exude style in 2022. Explore these exceptional traditional Indian outfits that speak volumes. Whether it's a holiday season or a special occasion, these looks are curated to ensure you look your best, standing out confidently from the crowd. To enhance your style, consider exploring the best suits for men in Bangalore, ensuring a tailored and sophisticated appearance for any celebration.
WEDDING ATTIRE BY DRESS CODE:
Weddings often bring the choice of attire, sometimes based on dress codes set by the couples or left to individual preferences. Discovering the perfect outfit for an upcoming wedding party involves navigating through various styles. Whether you opt for a thematic approach or individual choice, finding the right ensemble is crucial. To elevate your wedding attire, explore the options provided by the best suits for men in Bangalore. Tailored to perfection, these suits add a touch of sophistication to your wedding look, enhancing the overall celebratory experience.
Jodhpur Pants and a Kurta:
Jodhpuri fashion imparts a cultural touch and a remarkable appearance. Enhance your ensemble by incorporating mojdis with Jodhpuri pants and a kurta, creating a fashionable and attractive look. Opting for a dark kurta paired with neutral-colored Jodhpuri trousers is visually appealing. Elevate your style by accessorizing kurtas with patterns, geometrical shapes, and decorations, making it an ideal choice for weddings and festive seasons. The addition of golden, silver, and gemstone buttons, coupled with exquisite embroidery work, contributes to an incredible appearance. Explore the best suits for men in Bangalore to complement this traditional outfit, ensuring a sophisticated and tailored look for any occasion.
Sherwani:
The sherwani, a knee-length jacket with a collar, center front opening, and slit, is a popular choice for grooms. Worn over a kurta, it can be paired with various bottom wear options, such as jodhpurs, trousers, pajamas, churidars, dhotis, or fitting pants, creating an exquisite appearance. Sherwanis often feature intricate stonework and motifs, drawing inspiration from the Mughal period. With diverse styles available, from basic to intricate designer Indo-Western forms, the traditional menswear category showcases some of the most inspired clothing. Explore the best suits for men in Bangalore to enhance your sherwani ensemble, ensuring a refined and polished look for weddings and special occasions.
Pathani Suit:
Inspired by traditional garments from Arab countries, the Pathani Suit offers an elegant and casual look suitable for festive occasions. Consisting of a long kurta with a collar, front pockets, and baggy salwar trousers, it features rounded hems and a button placket. Typically crafted from cotton fabric, Pathani suits can be elevated by pairing them with loafers or moccasins, taking your ethnic style to another level. Consider exploring the best suits for men in Bangalore to find the perfect complement for your Pathani Suit, ensuring a well-coordinated and sophisticated appearance.
Dhoti/Mundu from Kerala:
A common outfit among South Indians, the dhoti or lungi, is made of cotton or silk, often in white, off-white, or ivory with a thin golden border. Stretched to cover the legs and wrapped around the waist with tucked-in pleats, it exudes simplicity and cultural richness. Ideal for weddings or cultural events, pair your dhoti ensemble with the best suits for men in Bangalore to add a touch of sophistication, creating a harmonious and visually pleasing atmosphere for the celebration.
Indo-Western Groups:
Since the British era, Indo-Western clothing has dominated Indian fashion, blending ethnic elements with a contemporary touch. These outfits enhance and distinguish the overall appearance. Featuring modern designs, such as printed long coats with symmetrical or cowl hemlines, Indo-Western groups have gained popularity, offering a fashionable and upscale appearance to men. Explore the best suits for men in Bangalore to complement your Indo-Western ensemble, ensuring a seamless and stylish overall look for any occasion.
Men’s Ethnic Wear Accessories:
It's a common misconception that accessories are exclusively for women. Contrary to this belief, men have a plethora of accessory options available today, leaving them spoilt for choice. The right accessories can be game-changers, significantly impacting a man's wardrobe and fashion sense. However, a word of caution—while accessories have the power to elevate your style, it's essential to exercise restraint to avoid going overboard. To enhance their ethnic appearance, men can explore the best suits for men in Bangalore. These accessories are curated to captivate attention and refine the overall look, ensuring a stylish and well-coordinated ensemble.
The Power of Accessories:
Don't be misled into thinking that accessories are reserved solely for women. Men now have a wide array of options that can be overwhelming. The correct accessories possess the transformative ability to greatly influence a man's wardrobe and fashion sensibility. It's crucial, however, to exercise moderation to prevent an excessive look. Here, we present the best accessories for men in conjunction with the best suits for men in Bangalore. These accessories are carefully chosen to not only enhance ethnic wear but also to attract attention and elevate the overall appearance, making a bold fashion statement.
Enhancing Your Ethnic Appearance:
To assume that accessories are exclusive to women is a misconception. Men today are presented with an abundance of accessory options, each with the potential to redefine their style game. The strategic use of accessories can significantly impact a man's wardrobe and fashion perception. Yet, a word of caution is necessary to prevent excessive accessorizing. Here, we introduce the best accessories for men, complementing the best suits for men in Bangalore. These accessories are designed to enhance the ethnic appearance, ensuring that men stand out and garner attention with a refined and well-coordinated ensemble.
Caution in Accessorizing:
Gone are the days when accessories were considered a female domain. Today, men have an overwhelming array of options that can be game-changers in their style journey. Accessories wield the power to influence a man's wardrobe and fashion sense, but moderation is key to avoid an overwhelming look. Here, we present the best accessories for men alongside the best suits for men in Bangalore. These accessories are carefully selected to add finesse to ethnic wear, striking a balance that captivates attention without going overboard, ensuring a sophisticated and stylish appearance.
Attracting Interest with Accessories:
If you thought accessories were exclusive to women, think again. Men are now presented with a myriad of accessory options that can be both exciting and overwhelming. The right accessories possess the ability to transform a man's wardrobe and sense of fashion, but it's essential to exercise caution to avoid a cluttered look. Introducing the best accessories for men in tandem with the best suits for men in Bangalore. These accessories are thoughtfully chosen to enhance the ethnic appearance, ensuring that men not only attract interest but also exude confidence with a meticulously curated and stylish ensemble.
CONCLUDING
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The Shackles That Binds Us by Christian Jay Villanueva
In Plato's Allegory of the Cave, Socrates likens society to slaves being shackled to a cave from the day they were born. These slaves are positioned in a such a way that they cannot face anything else other than the wall that is in front of them. Behind these slaves is a roaring fire, and with this fire their captors cast shadows of various things. These slaves, being in captivity from birth, sees these shadows as "truth". This twisting of the truth is an example of the shackles that binds a country. Which had me thinking, "What other facets of Filipino society do these shackles apply to?"
The first thing that comes to mind is smart shaming. Smart shaming is generally defined as the act of mocking or opposing the development of ideas in an intellectual conversation and expressing hostility and mistrust to intellectual pursuits (Villar, 2021). For those who are unfamiliar with the term, it may be difficult to spot smart shaming when it does happen. Smart shaming is a lot like doling out backhanded compliments, in which it is dripping with condescension and sarcasm. According to OneDown in February 2023,
"Smart shaming, at its core, is a by-product of anti-intellectualism–where one is mocked for being smarter or more knowledgeable. It’s why others say “Nosebleed!” when one has the ability to speak in straight English. Another choice insult is “Eh di ikaw na!”--and while there is no direct translation for the phrase, it’s a sarcastic way of saying “If you’re so good at it, then you do it.” And according to a Reddit thread on the topic, “Ikaw na” even triggers a sense of inferiority and even jealousy among those who say it."
The concept of smart shaming in modern Filipino culture gets its roots from the concept of pakikisama. Dr. Virgilio Enriquez emphasized the Filipino value of pakikisama, or the ability to get along with others. Interpersonal relationships and overall harmony are placed at a premium. As a result, people are expected to conform, not to stand out. So smart shaming is another form of hitting the nail that sticks out. Smart shamers are basically those that are so insecure with their own ignorance that they opt to just drag down those that display any form of erudition. This, of course, only serves to degrade our already poor literacy rate, shackling us at the bottom of the intelligence rankings.
Another important example is the Filipino fanaticism. Our propensity to blindly follow trends and/or ideas set by celebrities. We seldom question the logic or reason behind these things, but rather forge on straight ahead with no regard to how it affects others. Herd (or mob) mentality describes how people are influenced by their peers to follow trends, purchase items, or perform certain behaviors. Studies show that as the number of people in a crowd increases, the number of informed individuals decreases (Sison, 2015).
The modern Filipino, as an individual, is an amazing product of the Philippines' history, culture, language, and traditions. But when they start following a single person, the inherent individuality of the Filipino is sacrificed for the sake of the group. They no longer form their own opinions or ideas, they only follow the standards set by celebrities. Worst of all, fanaticism is not exclusive solely to celebrities because there is also political and religious fanaticism. Politicians and religious leaders are quick to take advantage of the Filipinos' fanaticism. They use the influence they have over them in order to stay ahead of the curve. One can usually observe this during the campaign period before the election. Politicians and religious leader go hand in hand in advocating for laws that are heavily favor their own selfish desires. They usually sweet talk not only their own followers but also anyone that has ears. They use their venomous drivel coated in sweet promises to hoodwink the masses into believing them. Fanaticism is the chains that binds us from thinking for ourselves.
Of course, if we are to talk about problematic Filipino traits, then it would be the height of stupidity to not mention "PiNoY pRiDe." Pinoy Pride in its most common sense, is unhinged and misplaced. It is branded as a form of patriotism that certifies the country and its people’s superiority among others. It may seem positive on the surface but in reality, the Pinoy Pride attitude is just a toxic reminder and celebration of Filipinos’ racial insecurity, supremacist outlook, and thirst for Western validation. It is the single most divisive Filipino trait in existence. It harbors our most elitist and most insecure part of Filipino heritage. It masquerades itself as a mark of unity and camaraderie, when in reality it contains the most hateful aspect of Filipino psychology.
Pinoy Pride completely disregards and invalidates the individuals' efforts, and instead attributes the individuals' achievements as some sort of team effort or a product of the "Filipino genes." It champions Filipinos as the greatest race in the world, and while there is nothing wrong with a little hyperbole and personal bias, it’s problematic when xenophobia and conceit start to play a role. In fact, what constitutes Pinoy Pride is not pride at all, but hubris. In her book, Pride: The Secret Of Success (2016), Jessica Tracy defined hubris as an embedded narcissism, arrogance, and conceit that may be suffused by insecurity and shame. Unless we let go of this hubris, we will remain shackled and chained to our narrow point of view, our tunnel vision.
Filipinos are truly amazing, I will not deny that, but our flaws are as grievous as our strengths are great. Our refusal to accept informed opinions, our inability to think for ourselves, and our hubristic pride will be the shackles that will wrap around our arms and legs. Our obstinacy will be the chains that will choke us to death. We will be our own undoing. Change is hard, that I know, but I also know that unless we change none of us will ever be able to raise our heads because of our shame.
REFERENCES:
Ikaw Na: The Reality Of Smart Shaming In The Philippines, February 9, 2023
How Pandemic Intensified Smart-Shaming in the STEM Field, Denyz Del Villar, November 22, 2021
The trouble with Filipino fanaticism, Shakira Sison, October 21, 2015
Why ‘Pinoy Pride’ Is Toxic, June 14, 2020
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