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pastanest · 1 year

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A/N: just some fun headcannons I thought of for different regenerations of the Doctor with each other’s companions :)

Doctors With Each Other’s Companions

Ten x Clara Oswald

there is only one reason that these two could not spend more than the 50th anniversary special together: the bisexuals would’ve spontaneously combusted

no but fr

if they had one full conversation they’d flirt themselves into an outerspace hotel room in approximately 4 seconds

the tension is palpable

the HEIGHT DIFFERENCE? I have been found deceased in a sewer pipe

no but seriously a show with these two couldnt be PG

Eleven was all flustered and bumbling when Clara flirted with him but Ten?? OH, he is SMOOTH AS BUTTER WITH IT once he’s gotten a bit more accustomed to it

The Oncoming Rizz, if you will

Nine x Donna Noble

these two would probably never get anything done bc they’d be arguing all the time in an epic war to out-sass each other

and Donna would win every time

and Nine would never admit it

if there is ANYONE that could put any Doctor in their place, it’s Donna Girlboss Noble

imagine Nine yelling for Donna like Ten did too, iconic

I’m not sure Nine could cope with Donna for a whole series just in terms of keeping up with her but I think for however long they were travelling together, it would be the funniest pairing in Doctor Who history

Twelve x Martha Jones

first of all, the racism that Ten allowed Martha to experience when he made himself human and chose the time period they’d hide in?? Twelve would NEVER, we saw how he protected Bill!!

second, she would’ve been saved from heartache with this version of the Doctor

Twelve would actually appreciate Martha, in ways that the heartbroken Ten couldnt

the fact Martha is so smart and has such a vast medical knowledge? Twelve is ALL about it

he’d meet Einstein just to say “Martha Jones is smartest person in this room, after me.”

he has no regard for whether that’s technically accurate or not

Twelve has every faith that no matter the scenario, Martha Jones is smart enough to figure out a solution

very biased and does not care

Nine x Amelia Pond

now hear me out, this is an odd combo, but ENVISION IT

Amelia Pond would soften Nine like sun on snow, especially if they had the canon meeting of her and Eleven

he’s more inclined to be blunt, but I think Amy would become his exception in a similar way to Twelve x Clara

like Nine will go on a rant about how stupid the human race is, but then ends it with “-except for Amelia, obviously.”

he roasts Rory to no end, the two of them are the ears and the nose

River Song slaps Nine more than any other regeneration of the Doctor and that’s canon

and if it had been Nine in a Good Man Goes To War, let’s just say his name would no longer be…

Eleven x Rose Tyler

listen listen listen, I KNOW Rose already got two regenerations of the Doctor but it will never be enough for me Im such a whore for Rose’s dynamic with the Doctor I wont take any criticism goodnight

if her relationship with Ten continued with Eleven?? UMM

Rose would be jealous of River to begin with but they’d become besties in no time bc River has obviously heard all about her and is like “You stared into the heart of the Tardis? Slay x”

Eleven and his boyish antics, his bubbling excitement and ridiculous dress sense would have had Rose Tyler GIGGLING

also Eleven could charm anyone, including Jackie Tyler, it’s canon she thinks he’s utterly adorable and actually keeps a supply of jammy dodgers in the cupboard just in case they pop round

Twelve x Rose Tyler

SO CUTE

Rose and her daddy issues, fixed by the lovingly-grouchy grandad that is Twelve? HAND IT OVER RN

also the Scottish accent saying “Rose” would scratch the brain

similar to Twelve x Clara, except with the canon additions of Captain Jack and Mickey Smith

obviously, Captain Jack still tries to flirt with the Doctor and calls him a “silver fox” and Twelve is like >:( but internally he’s twirling his hair and kicking his feet

and he forgets Mickey’s name entirely

forgets he’s there, actually

“When was the last time he said something that showed a shred of intelligence? As far as I’m concerned, he’s a vaguely familiar pudding brain.”

#doctor who #10th doctor #tenth doctor #11th doctor #eleventh doctor #9th doctor #ninth doctor #12th doctor #twelfth doctor #imagine #imagines #headcannon #headcannons #rose tyler #clara oswald #donna noble #martha jones #amelia pond

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minaofmayhem · 2 years

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IMAGINE #50 - Better than reading

Wow, my 50th imagine, I still can’t believe it! ❤️ Here we go with a cute but smutty moment with Christian in a library, thanks for asking! Enjoy @christianbalefanatic and thanks for asking ! 😍

Summary : You work at the public library. Being a great bookworm, your work is very important to you. The problem is that it sometimes takes up a lot of your time. Christian, your boyfriend, decides to surprise you…

Pairing : Christian Bale x Reader

Warnings : fluff, strong langage, smut and unprotected sex 🔥

Tag list : @kittenlittle24 ; @christianbalefanatic

"Christian, where are you taking me?" you say as you follow him as best you can, trotting between the shelves covered in books.

"Follow me, you'll see," Christian replies as he continues on his way to the library's reserve. But what is he up to?

These places are not unknown to you since you have been working here for two years now. Two wonderful years of organizing, filing and sharing your passion for books and reading. A job that, it is true, takes a lot of your time. It must also be said that Mrs. Clarence, the boss, imposed particularly strict working hours, to the great displeasure of Christian, your boyfriend, who wanted to spend more time with you.

And obviously, to counter this problem, he had found a solution. He had suddenly shown up ten minutes before, when you were supposed to be putting away the newly arrived books. You thought it was a simple visit to see you, but it was clear that he had other plans...

The race stopped at the doorway to the storeroom. Christian opens the door and you rush inside together. He stands against the door for a moment, watching for any sound that would indicate another staff member had followed you.

"If you wanted a particular book, all you had to do was ask the librarian." You hear Christian chuckle. Certain that you are finally alone, he closes the lock and turns back to you.

"What if it's not a book I want, but the librarian?". His voice suddenly becomes suave and his eyes darken. You swallow, finally understanding what he has in mind.

"What's going on sweetheart?", Christian steps forward, caressing your cheek gently.

"Christian, we can't do this here!", you enjoy the touch of his finger on your skin but you can only resist. "If anyone hears us or if Mrs. Clarence catches us, I..."

"Shh...", he puts a finger to your lips before leaning in to whisper to you. "Everyone else is busy, it's just you and me...so let's make this good and quick"

A shiver of pleasure runs through you as Christian pushes you against the shelf behind you. You swallow again, feeling the desire gradually rise in you. Christian slides his head into your neck to place several sensual kisses while his hands continue to caress your arms, up and down.

"Chris..." you moan, wanting to say his name, but unable to continue as you feel his tongue titillate your earlobe, your sensitive spot.

"Relax my darling...", he whispers against your skin, his breath triggering a new wave of shivers.

"But...what if...what if someone...finds out that...", you again don't have time to finish your sentence. Christian intensifies his kisses that go lower and lower, down to the birth of your chest. He then lifts his head, flashing a naughty smile on his handsome face.

"This will only get more exciting." And without warning, he reaches down to pull up the sides of your dress to reach your panties. Defeated, you bite your lip, unable to resist longer to this torture. Each time, Christian was able to make you flinch just by his caresses and his kisses. With a glance, you look at the door, hoping with all your heart that nobody will have the idea to come to rush in the reserve at this moment. Normally, this room was only accessible for the staff and for the moment, Mrs. Clarence was absent, at least until closing time. That gave you some time.

"Oh," another moan escapes your lips as you feel Christian's fingers touch the tips of your labia, searching for your clit. Lost in thought, you hadn't even realized he'd already removed your panties. To make it easier, Christian takes your leg and rests your calf on his shoulder, giving him better access to your privacy. To keep from falling, you grab one of the boards from the shelf behind you.

"Mmh...I know one who's more than happy to see me," he says, still looking naughty, feeling with his fingers how ready you are for him. His fingers caress your lips, back and forth, and it's torture. Your head tilts back, bumping into another board.

"Oh yeah..." your fingers slip into Christian's hair as you feel him replace his fingers with his tongue. "Oh yeah...like that." Christian is busy trying to give you as much pleasure as possible, he knows he doesn't have much time. Your fingers, clinging to the board, are slowly starting to give way as well, and it's getting harder and harder to stand.

"Chris...baby...", you whisper as best you can between two moans, trying to get his attention.

Christian finishes by giving you one last lick before pulling away. He seems to understand your message because he puts your leg back on the ground, allowing you to regain your balance. He stands up to be at your level and finally captures your lips for a sweet kiss. Taking advantage of this moment, you move your hands down to the zipper of his pants, already feeling the huge bulge.

"I think...you are also very happy to see me," you say as you tease against his lips, continuing to kiss him more and more sensually. Christian giggles, grabbing your face to intensify your kiss. Skillfully and without looking, you undo the button on his pants and let them slide to his feet. And there, you notice with surprise, that he is not wearing underwear! You laugh, amused by this funny situation. Christian detaches himself, not understanding why you start to laugh. He suddenly realizes the reason.

"I was in too much of a hurry to come and see you, I forgot to put on underpants". You both laugh before regaining your seriousness. Your hands automatically go to his already hard member. First some caresses, at the base until the end, before making more precise movements. Christian moans under your caresses but suddenly, he stops you in your momentum.

"We don't have much time unfortunately...but let's save it for tonight, what do you say?", for only answer you address him a naughty smile, in a hurry to be already tonight to show him all the extent of your talent. Christian takes your face in his hands and kisses you tenderly one last time before scanning the room in search of an ideal place. He finally finds it and takes your hand to lead you to a more secluded corner, away from the door.

"I can't hold on much longer...I want you".

"Then take me", you answer, determined to satisfy the burning desire that has been burning you since he brought you here. Everything you feared when you entered seems to have finally disappeared.

"Bend over", with his hand, he helps you to position yourself against other shelves, bigger and more solid. Both of your hands grab two boards at the same height while you place your right foot on the second board from the bottom, making it easier to get in. Christian moves closer, lifting your dress to your hips. He positions himself behind you too, taking her member in his hand. He also takes the opportunity to spank your asscheek, which makes you moan.

"I can't take it anymore Christian...", you moan, checking one last time that you are well hung. He then strokes his glans against your entrance and between your wet lips.

"Oh yes," he leans in to whisper in the hollow of your ear.

"Please...I want you...now," Christian slides his member in again to torture you before slowly entering you, making sure not to hurt you. This position is not unfamiliar to you but he is always careful and gentle. He comes out to enter once more, checking to make sure you're ready enough.

"God...you're so tight," he groans as he feels a sensation of pleasure wash over him. His words and caresses are enough to turn you on more and more.

"Go ahead baby..." you scream in pleasure, hoping no one heard you. You join a movement of pelvis to your words to encourage Christian to start his cadence. Getting the message, he puts his hands on your hips and starts to move, first slowly and then faster, remembering that unfortunately you only have a few minutes to enjoy this moment.

"Oh yes...go on...", your breathing is jerky and you hold on as best you can to the shelf but the sensations you feel are so pleasant that it is hard to hold on.

"You like that, don't you..." he groans too, admiring your body from this angle. He places one of his feet back, causing him to push further inside you. A scream escapes you, more audible than the others, and Christian puts his hand over your mouth to keep it quiet. The sensations you feel increase tenfold, and you begin to feel that familiar, pleasurable sensation come to life in the pit of your stomach.

"Keep going...I'll soon..."

"Cum for me honey, go ahead, let it out," Christian says, almost out of breath and determined to give you maximum pleasure. Your face bows, your forehead butting against the shelf board and you bite your lip violently to remain discreet.

"Yes...Yes...", you moan more and more, feeling that vague sensation start to get clearer and clearer until it produces an explosion of extraordinary sensations. Your legs tremble and it becomes difficult for you not to fall under the effect of this orgasm.

"That's it baby...cum for me," Christian says as he speeds up his strokes to give you maximum pleasure until the end. You still feel that pulse spreading for a few moments before it disappears but leaving a feeling of well-being spreading through your veins. Satisfied and proud, Christian continues his movements until he reaches his own deliverance in a last blow, adding a deep and guttural moan.

"God..." he cries out as he regains his senses. Slowly, he pulls back, also helping you back to a normal position.

"Oh my god...", your legs hurt a little but it was worth it. Christian grabs you by the arm to take you in his arms, placing a soft kiss on the top of your head.

"I love you you know," you whisper against the skin of his chest, dropping a kiss in turn.

"I love you too." You stay in each other's arms for a moment, enjoying this moment of well-being and love.

"(X/Y)! Where are you?", Mrs. Clarence's shrill, screeching voice is suddenly heard in the hallway, behind the storeroom door.

"Shit...my boss!", you exclaim silently, immediately pulling your dress down. Still as quietly as possible, you gesture to Christian that it is past time for him to put his clothes back on and especially to stay hidden.

"(X/Y)!", the voice rings out once again. Advancing cautiously between the shelves, you recover your small panties in the passage and slip them on at full speed. You also redo your hair, hoping that your little escapade will go unnoticed, before opening the door, in a last breath.

"Yes Mrs. Clarence."

"Ah here you are at last. What were you doing in the storeroom?"

"Oh, I...I was looking for a book but...I couldn't find it," you really hope that lie will pass. Mrs. Clarence is not the type to be fooled. She looks at you suspiciously, raising an eyebrow.

"Is everything okay? Are your cheeks all red?" she adds, continuing to look at you warily. It's impossible not to blush even more at such a remark.

"Oh that's nothing, I had to move some boxes that were particularly heavy...".

"Very well," she said after a few more seconds of very uncomfortable silence. "Hurry up, a student needs some information". And with that, she leaves again in the library. Relieved, you let out a deep relief. Behind you, Christian gently opens the door, having made sure that the way was clear.

"We got lucky," you murmur as you urge him out of the storeroom.

"Quick, go through the emergency door before she sees you." Christian laughs, with an amused look, before placing a kiss on your cheek.

"See you later my pretty librarian...Be ready for round two".

#Christian Bale #christian bale imagine #christian bale x reader #imagine50

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besidesitstoowarm · 3 months

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"The End of Time part 1" thoughts

me trying to recap this would take longer than the actual episode cause so much shit happened but i'll try to give a highlights reel when commentary as appropriate

the narration about how "in the final days of planet earth....everyone had bad dreams" kinda reminds me of eleven's ending monologue in "day of the doctor" and i like thinking about that connecting link. i don't know what that connection would mean but i'm sitting here letting it wash over me like a warm bath

ten gets a summons from the ood at the end of last episode and fucks around for a while before bothering to show back up at the planet of the ood. he got married! to liz 1! "her nickname is no longer, well" get it playa. the ood show him a teaser trailer for the rest of the episode and some cult breaks lucy saxon out of jail to do some fucking alchemy i guess? "the secret books of saxon" i like when doctor who gets corny but this was pushing it. they resurrect the master but lucy fucked it up just enough

wilf, genius, mobilizes every busybody elderly person he knows on a doctor-spying endeavor. the master shows up at a quarry and goes feral on a burger. when he leaps 10 miles into the air and lands on those two homeless guys to eat them, i said "that's the last thing my 7/11 cheeseburger sees" and my bf laughed

wilf does find ten and takes him to a little cafe and they chat. ten says something must be connecting them for wilf to find him so quickly, and i think this is twofold– i think they have a connection bc wilf is related to donna, who is obviously heavily entwined w him (like, sorry, in twilight how jacob was drawn to bella bc of her yet-unborn daughter), and i think it's also him being led to his death like the saddest little lamb to the slaughter. saving wilf will kill him, and so fate is bringing them together to facilitate that. ten admits he's going to die and wilf is like "okay? same" and ten says "don't you dare" and wilf says "alright i'll try not to" it's a cute bit. rip bernard

i think the part where he's agonizing over regeneration, "some new man goes sauntering away," that's cut and dry from rose, right? i've only seen a handful of classic regenerations (one to two, two to three, seven to eight, and for the 50th eight to war) and while they had some feelings about their deaths, it wasn't. existential? none of them AGONIZED over it. it just was what it was. even nine was okay becoming ten. but ROSE wasn't okay with that. ten's first day on earth was full of rose pining for the man he'd been. of course that imprinted on him!

anyway the master does force lightning when the doctor sees him, much like sheev did on the night rey's dad was conceived i imagine. the master is talking about how they were kids playing in the fields on the mountain and what kind of brokeback... he forces the doctor to telepathically hear his drumbeats by touching foreheads. it's fucking crazy. the master gets kidnapped and ten tells wilf "i can still smell him" what is even happening to you two

wilf says "i thought it'd be cleaner" when he gets in the tardis, lmao. the master is taken to some billionaire's house (played by friar tuck from bbc's robin hood, to me) to fix his immortality gate salvage thing. he's in a literal dog collar and leash and says "i like you. you'd taste great" do i even need to elaborate. he rigs the gate to turn everyone else on earth to "the master race" and we see obama?? like they cut to the us president about to give a speech and say it's barack obama?? why did they use obama why not Generic American. can you imagine if in "love actually" billy bob thornton was playing w bush i would have died

anyway we end on rassilon and the rest of the time lords reveling in the end of time coming to pass. it's probably nothing

#doctor who #besides its too rewatch #special #The End of Time

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recentanimenews · 2 years

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The Rose of Versailles Manga to Hold Its 50th Anniversary Exhibition in Tokyo This Fall

It is confirmed today that The Rose of Versailles 50th Anniversary Exhibition - The Rose of Versailles Forever -, a special exhibition event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Riyoko Ikeda's historical romance manga in the 1970s, The Rose of Versailles, is scheduled to be held at TOKYO CITY VIEW (Roppongi Hills Mori Tower 52nd floor) from September 17 to November 20, 2022.

The manga was serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Margaret shoujo manga magazine from April 1972 to December 1973. The press release writes, "The epic historical drama set in the French Revolution era overturned the common perception at the time that historical stories were not appropriate for girls' manga, and the series was a huge hit, winning the hearts of girls from the start. It became so popular that it received tens of thousands of fan letters per month, and became an immortal masterpiece that changed the history of shoujo manga."

This exhibition, to be held this year to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the manga's serialization, will focus especially on Marie Antoinette and Oscar François de Jarjayes, the two main characters of the story, and will exhibit rare original drawings, along with Ikeda's thoughts and words at the time. In the Takarazuka Revue section, the "Oscar's Room" from the play will be recreated, and stage costumes and props will be on display to introduce the magnificent world of the play. With materials from the TV animation and nostalgic goods, the development that continues to the present day will also be traced.

Message from Riyoko Ikeda:

Fifty years may seem like a long time ago, but "The Rose of Versailles" has been passed down from parents to children and grandchildren. It is a dreamlike happiness that I could not have imagined during the serialization. As the author, I would like to thank all of them. The publisher, the Takarazuka Revue, the animation company, and others have supported the work at every opportunities. And now, in the midst of this Corona disaster, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved for holding the 50th anniversary exhibition and celebrating with us. Hoping that as many fans as possible will enjoy it.

Key visual:

Riyoko Ikeda:

Original tankobon 1st volume cover:

RELATED: Real Rose Named "The Rose of Versailles" Offered in Japan

Source: Mori Building press release

©Riyoko Ikeda Production

By: Mikikazu Komatsu

#Anime #News #Latest in Anime News by Crunchyroll!

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lealbrechtsen2 · 2 years

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gunterfan1992 · 3 years

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Episode Review: ‘Together Again’ (Distant Lands, Ep. 3)

Airdate: May 20, 2021

Story by: Jack Pendarvis, Kate Tsang, Hanna K. Nyström, Christina Catucci, Jesse Moynihan, Adam Muto

Storyboarded by: Hanna K. Nyström, Anna Syvertsson, Iggy Craig, Maya Petersen, Serena Wu

Directed by: Miki Brewster (supervising), Sandra Lee (art)

Across Adventure Time’s ten season run, the show explored a bevy of “mature” themes and story ideas—topics, like love, sexuality, depression, and grieving. The show also touched upon death, but the emphasis was usually placed on the emotional toll of a loved one dying, not really what happens when you die. We knew there were Dead Worlds and Death. We knew that there was reincarnation. But how does it all fit together? What does it mean? How does it work?

With “Together Again,” we finally have many of the answers.

This special opens with a marvelous fake-out episode simply called “Finn & Jake,” that sees the two steal a magical cartoon of 50-flavor ice cream before rescuing Turtle Princess and LSP from the clutches of the villainous Ice King. This is all deliberately anachronistic and over the top. Ice King is back to his season one ways, Finn has both arms, and he is still wielding his golden sword that he lost in season two’s “The Real You.” There’s lolrandom dialogue and silly monsters; it’s like a parody of seasons 1-2. But then, this adventure starts to get all wonky, and in time Finn realizes that he is in a some sort of trance or illusion: one that ends with Jake being buried in the ground. Suddenly, Finn awakens from his reverie. He’s an old man. And he’s dead. We’re then presented with a new title card that lets us know the episode is actually called “Finn & Jake Are Dead.”

Holy Glob! They actually went there.

Turns out Jake died years before Finn, so naturally Finn is super excited to see his best bud. But something’s wrong—he cannot find Jake!! They planned to spend eternity together. But all that Finn can find is his very own psychopomp, Mr. Fox (voiced by Tom Herpich, whose purposefully stilted line readings are the epitome of delightful). Finn rightfully assumes that Jake is in a different Dead World, and so, being the ball of spunk and energy that he is, he demands to meet with Death, only to discover that there’s a New Death in town (voiced by Chris Fleming). The episode eventually explains that New Death was the son of Death and Life, and after New Death killed his father, he became the sovereign of the afterlife. New Death hates his job and decides to just blow up all the Dead Worlds so he doesn’t have to deal with it all. (I won’t get too much into the details here, because there would be a lot of story to parse out.)

Finn soon learns that Jake has reached nirvana in the 50th Dead World, where there is nothing but peace and serenity. Finn nevertheless tracks down Jake, pulls him from paradise, but in doing so, accidentally lets New Death in, who promptly obliterates Elysium, sending all the enlightened souls—including those from different levels of the afterlife—to the 1st Dead World. This gronks up the afterlife, temporarily halting the reincarnation process.

Well, Finn and Jake are rightfully ticked, and so they haunt the material plane looking for Princess Bubblegum. She’s not home (more on that later), but Peppermint Butler is! After Ghost Finn and Ghost Jake explain the situation, Peppermint Butler tells them what to do: They need to find Life and explain the situation. The duo manage just that, and Life is rightfully angry that her kid has stopped the transmigration of souls. After Life gives Finn a McGuffin sword that can hurt Death, Finn and Jake return to his abode. A brawl ensues wherein we learn that New Death has been possessed… by none other than that spirit of the Lich.

That’s right, it’s the Lich! He’s back, and boy is he evil.

The Lich explains that by possessing Death, he can destroy the afterlife, thereby destroying a key aspect of reality. Naturally, Finn and Jake are not cool with this, and they engage in combat. After Mr. Fox grabs the McGuffin sword and uses it to annihilate the Lich and New Death, he is proclaimed the New New Death and sets everything right. Finn is slated to be reincarnated, and Jake is slated to return to the 50th Dead World where he and Finn will one day be reunited. As Finn is pulled into the wheel of souls, Jake suddenly decides to go back with Finn, too, “Just for fun.” The episode ends with a card letting us know that the episode is neither called “Finn & Jake” nor “Finn & Jake Are Dead.” Instead, it is “Finn and Jake Are Together Again.”

As they say, “And there wasn’t a dry eye in the place.”

If you were to tell me several years ago that the last episode to star Finn and Jake would revolve around them dying, I think I would’ve been upset. Not simply sad, but rather frustrated because “they all died” can feel like a cheap ending. But with “Together Again,” it all works. And a large reason that it works is because the show goes all in with their ideas. Finn and Jake don’t magically leap back into their old life (no, no, they very much do bite the dust). Instead, the special emphasizes the cyclical nature of life through the transmigration of souls. The episode ends with a beautiful scene of Finn and Jake, bound together as soul-brothers, being reborn into a new, mysterious (possibly Ooo 1000+?) world. It’s both aesthetically and emotionally pleasing; it doesn’t feel off the way over finales might. This is right. This is the way life works. “Round and round as nature goes,” and all that jazz.

I loved the series explanation of how death works. It seems that souls land in a specific Dead World, where they ‘marinate’ for a bit, presumably being rewarded or punished based on their life in our meat reality. After a time, they are then reborn. This process repeats, with each soul reaching higher and higher levels of enlightenment until they hit nirvana, which is the 50th Dead World. So in a sense, Adventure Time has a roughly Buddhist cosmology with a dash of Greco-Roman mythos thrown in for flavor. (As to what happens after a soul stays in the 50th Dead World for a long period is anyone’s guess, but I’d speculate that when all the souls in the multiverse have been purified and land in the 50th Dead World, they will all collapse into one another and form one perfect Monad. Perhaps this is the sphere of perfection that the beings who merged into Matthew thought they were connecting to? Who knows! It’s anyone’s guess!) I was a little disappointed that we didn’t get to see who Death, Prismo, Life, etc.’s boss was, but perhaps that’s a mystery better left up to the imagination!

One minor thing that I loved about this special was the number of characters who made cameos as well as all the callbacks that were made to previous episodes. Regarding the former: Finn and Jake’s canine family show up (including the oft-forgotten Jermaine!), as do Tree Trunks and her myriad husbands. Tiffany plays a major role in all these shenanigans as a “death cop” of all things. There is a delightful rogues gallery stuck in the 1st Dead World (including, among others, Maja, Sharon from “The Gut Grinder,” and Wyatt). In the 50th we find Ghost Princess and Clarence happily at peace next to Booshy, the weird spirit mentioned in the Pen Ward classic “High Strangeness.” As far as callbacks go, perhaps my favorite is the clap (from “James Baxter the Horse”) that Jake taught to Finn in case they ever do get separated in the afterlife. And of course, there are myriad references made to “Death in Bloom,” the episode that planted the seed for what this would grow into.

Going into the special suspecting that it would involve Death, I was curious how they were going to handle Miguel Ferrer’s character. (In case a reader is not aware, Ferrer played Death in episodes like “Death in Bloom” and “Betty,” but he sadly passed away a few years ago). The producers’ choice to feature him in a non-speaking cameo—despite playing a relatively significant role in the story—was wise; I’m not sure if I can articulate the exact reasons, but something about his role felt appropriate and not gross, as some post-mortem memorials can be. Speaking of which, the wonderful, lovely Polly Lou Livingston was featured for the last time in this episode as Tree Trunks, happily in heaven with her literal harem of husbands. It was funny, it really was, and I’m sure that Polly Lou would’ve gotten a kick out of seeing it on screen. (Also, this is a pro-Tree Trunks safe space. Any Tree Trunks haters will be chucked into the 1st Dead World with Wyatt.)

The biggest mystery in this whole thing, for me at least, is the question of Princess Bubblegum and Marceline. Several years ago, I wrote an essay about what could’ve happened to them in the Ooo 1000+ universe. I speculated that they peaced out and left Ooo behind. In this special, neither Bubblegum nor Marceline are to be found in the Candy Kingdom—Peppermint Butler seems to be the one in charge, given that he is now wearing Bubblegum’s crown. Likewise, the duo aren’t anywhere in the Dead Worlds either. Maybe the two of them skipped town and got a duplex in the Nightosphere? Who knows… I just want my favorite gals to be OK!

All things considered, “Together Again” was a marvel: An episode that managed to feel like a series finale even more than “Come Along with Me” already did without taking away from the series itself. An episode that managed to make the idea of dying funny. An episode that brought back the Lich in a way that wasn’t forced. An episode that made Mr. Fox the New New Death. An episode that gave us a beautiful ending to Finn and Jake’s story… as well as the beautiful beginning to a new one. I said it on Twitter, and I’ll say it again here: “Together Again” was the end of a sentence in a book with infinite pages. Truly, the fun will never end.

Mushroom War evidence: Everything takes place in the Dead Worlds, so not really. Perhaps a more eagle-eyed viewer can inform us...

Final Grade: That’s right, I’m gonna do it...

Post-script, I actually messaged Jesse Moynihan to ask about his writing credit. He told me that it was for an unused story idea that he had developed. I’m not certain, but I’ll bet it was a part of the cancelled TV movie they were trying to make during season 5, since that would’ve seen Finn and Orgalorg journey to the various Dead Worlds.

#adventure time #adventuretime #atimers #at #atdl #distant lands #adventure time distant lands #finn the human #jake the dog #together again #togetheragain #dead worlds #hanna k. nyström #Hanna K #adam muto #jack pendarvis

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colourful-void · 3 years

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(Image Description: a picture of a plush of Gigantamax Meowth. the background is all white, and the meowth is standing upright. it’s eyes are golden and it has a red ring meant to resemble clouds around it’s upper torso. it is very large. End ID)

This is the Gigantamax Meowth Plush from the Pokemon Center’s website. It is 65 inches (5'4, or 165cm). You may have seen it before. However, I have also realized that according to a quick google search, the average ten year old boy is 54.5 inches (4′5 or 188.5cm).

(Image description: a screenshot of a google search for ‘how tall is the average 10 year old boy” underneath is a chart with two visible rows. The two categories are ‘age (years)’ and ‘50th percentile height for boys (inches and centimeters)’. The first row reads, “9 - 52.6 in. (133.5 cm)” and the second reads “10 -54.5 in. (138.5 cm)” End ID)

Motivated, I whipped up this rough height chart:

Therefore it’s only fair that goh and ash get this plush to live in their room at the lab because can you imagine the looks on their faces it would be adorable. Thank u for coming to my ted talk.

#pokemon #goh pokemon #ash pokemon #ash ketchum #pokemon journeys #pokeani #anipoke #meowth #nyarth #you know how ash gestured in the alola episode to show how big the tamatama evolution was?#he'd do that #please if anyone deserves a plush larger than themself its them

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pikemoreno · 4 years

Text

so long

pairing: ezra (prospect) x reader

request: anon: “’Lay your head in my lap and try to get some rest.’ for your choice?”

word count: 1.4k

warnings: none, it’s mildly angsty and then there’s a little splash of fluff

a/n: i’m... incapable of writing short drabbles. it’s fine. first time writing for ezra. ahhhh. so exciting, but so hard and so nerve-wracking. hope you enjoy. and i still hate naming things lol.

He hadn’t seen you in so long that he wondered how his feet still knew the way to your door at all. Though now that he was here, his hand didn’t seem to remember how to knock.

He guessed that was due to his having to use his non-dominant hand for such tasks now. The last time he was at this door he was still in possession of all of his limbs. Last time he was here he also still had a key. No knocking necessary.

A lot of things were different from last time he was in this spot. He was more youthful then: his eyes were brighter, the crease between his eyebrows shallower. He hadn’t killed. His zest for life was grander, his need to explore still unsatiated.

The knuckles of his left hand lifted to knock, but didn’t follow through. He chewed on his bottom lip, beginning to second-guess that perhaps you wouldn’t want to see him now.

It had been nearing 200 cycles since he’d left. You used to come with him: hopping planets, prospecting, roughing it, no attachments but each other. The two of you had landed on this civilized little planet about 300 cycles ago now. The original intention was to stay for a while just to resupply and sell your harvest. By the 50th cycle on the planet Ezra was itching to move on, needing to stretch his legs again.

He was sure you would be packed within the hour and ready to move on with him, just as it always was. That was when you shakily told him that you were ready to be rooted. The dangerous vagabond life had served you well for a thousand cycles, but you were aching for security. You’d anxiously told him you’d found a school of higher education that was interested in taking you on-- both of you.

He got so angry.

It killed him to think of it now.

He’d been so upset that you’d gone behind his back, looking for work when you had work already.

With him.

You’d calmly explained to him that your settled life absolutely included him. You didn’t want it without him.

He didn’t listen.

Why didn’t he ever listen?

He was so good at talking. Why hadn’t he taken just one day with you to talk about the situation? He’d owed you that. He’d owed you so much more than that and he couldn’t even deign to humor your desire to stay rooted.

He took off in the middle of the night, leaving his side of the bed a cold, empty space for you to wake up to. He left nothing of his behind and told you nothing about where he was going.

He did it out of pain and anger, feeling betrayed. It’d ended up only breeding more pain and anger in him, spending his nights thinking about how much he wished he wasn’t alone. He couldn’t imagine how much more betrayed you must’ve felt.

He’d wanted to return so long ago to make it right. He’d decided as soon as he set foot to ground that The Green was his last stop, no more than ten cycles. Ten so quickly turned to far more, wrench after wrench thrown in his plans.

It’d been so long now. He’d been stewing over this for so long.

There was no way you’d want to see him. There was no way you’d recognize him: physically, emotionally, or mentally. He was a different man now, one that he wasn’t entirely proud of. Even if you did take him back, he found himself insecure about the fact that he wouldn’t be able to hold you the same, that he struggled with daily tasks, that he’d just be a burden to your, surely, now steady life.

He knocked anyway.

There was light shuffling behind the door and then it was swung open in a moment of truth.

You froze.

He froze.

Ezra wasn’t often rendered speechless, but in this moment his vocabulary was simply not enough to express his frustration, his remorse, his ardent admiration, and utmost joy to be in your presence again. Words didn’t suffice, so he simply stood there. His eyes flicked over you, taking in your familiarity, the way you had hardly changed, only becoming more ethereal in the 200 cycles. He watched your eyes trail over his much different appearance, settling on his missing extremity for a second, just a second, though the sad look in your eyes lasted several seconds longer.

“Apologies,” he mumbled finally, helplessly, tears threatening to take over his vision for the first time in so long, “I shouldn’t have--” he backed away, starting back the way he came.

“Ezra,” your voice suddenly sounded behind him. It was so small and unsure, but not a question. It was a call. Distinctly a call for him to come back. He wouldn’t ignore that call for him a second time. It turned him back around immediately. And when his eyes met yours again it stopped every word that was about to come out of your mouth. “I--” You shook your head, unable to continue.

“A sentiment I concur with,” he gave a quick half-grin.

“Would you like to come inside?”

He could only nod, allowing you to lead the way. The space was largely unchanged, but with a few extra pieces of furniture to make it more liveable long-term. It was surprisingly nice like this. He could get used to it, if you would let him. You sat down on the couch that spread across the living space. His eyes, heavy lidded with physical and emotional exhaustion, asked for your permission to join and you patted the space next to you in response. He fell into it with a heavy sigh, closing his eyes for a moment before speaking.

“I do apologize most profusely for all the harm I’ve surely caused you. There were so many things I should not have done, first and most of all ever having left you in the first place.”

“Not now,” you cooed, “You look exhausted.”

“I must know if I could ever win your forgiveness.” You sighed.

“We’ll talk about this. We will. We’re going to have a lot to work through, you and me. You broke me.” His face was downcast as he took in those words. He was expecting them, but it didn’t make it any less hard to hear. “But I’m more than willing to work through this… Work for this.” His eyes shot back up to you instantly, too big and shining and hopeful for the life he’d seen. “But you look exhausted right now. Lay your head in my lap and try to get some rest,” you smiled a little sadly, “Like old times.”

“I am indeed fresh from The Green,” he murmured back, doing as commanded, “To have a soft place to lay once again is a luxury. But I fear I will not be a particularly pleasant companion at this time, birdie.” His words ended in a low hum as your hands so naturally returned to their old habits, threading their way through his hair.

“Well, you will be much more pleasant when you’re sleeping at any rate,” you teased. And he laughed. A real, hardy laugh.

“Oh how I’ve missed your endless wit, starlight,” he mused, eyes already drooping in response to the warmth and the calming motion of your fingertips against his scalp.

“And your unending loquaciousness, moon and stars. It’s been too quiet.”

“I will never allow this space to hear silence again, if you’ll let me.”

Taglist: @acomplicatedprofession @hdlynn @makaela27 @space-floozy @catfishingmorales @ithinkhesgaybutwesavedmufasa @princessbatears @synystersilenceinblacknwhite @findhimfives @dindjarindiaries @mistermiraclee

#ezra x reader #ezra prospect x reader #bri writes

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moastays · 4 years

Text

unlikely connection (f)

summary: who ever thought the student council president and the schools most popular boy would end up together?

fluffy yeonjun x reader a/n: this is my first longer fic but i really like it i might write more of these

you groaned as your alarm went off for the 50th time this morning. you stayed up all night trying to get ready for all the events in the coming weeks since fall was quickly approaching. as student council president you were in charge of all these things on top of maintaining your grades which was a toll on you. it took you another ten minutes to realize that your alarm was going off. you hopped up quickly checking the time to see that you were already an hour late to school. you jumped up anxiety running through you as you ran to get dressed.

‘stupid science project keeping me up past 12 and stupid fall events keeping me up past 1′ you thought to yourself as you put some makeup on and ran out the door. luckily the school wasn’t too far away from your house so it wouldnt take a lot for you to run there.

you finally made it to school, huffing and puffing because of how out of shape you were. you leaned against the front doors trying to regain your breath.

“someone needs to do some exercising” you heard a voice mumble. you looked up to see yeonjun, your schools most popular boy (and hearthrob) leaning against the wall opposite of where you were standing. you began to blush slightly embarrassed by someone else seeing you like this.

“someone also needs to be in class” you retorted back causing him to smirk.

“says you....miss student council president.” he said walking closer to you and booping your nose with his finger. he reached in his backpack and gave you a water almost as if he was feeling pity for your exhausted state.

“thanks” you mumbled back blushing like crazy while drinking the water. ever since middle school you had a crush on yeonjun. he was so charming and cute which is why everyone loved him. you knew it would never happen so you just ignored it and focused on your studies since you wanted boys to be the least of your concern.

“class is over in 20 minutes you know....there's no point of going now..lets skip” he said with a smirk grabbing your hand and dragging you around the school.

your eyes grew big after you let the boy lead you forgetting that this was real.

“wait wait wait wait.” you said causing him to stop moving.

“you don't even know me. and what if we get in trouble!” you shouted. yeonjun came up to you and cover your lips with his fingers in a hushing motions.

“well one, if you keep screaming like that we will get in trouble and two i dont have to know you because i want to get to know you.” he said with a wink as he went back to guiding you around the school.

at this point you continued and oblige; seeing no point in fighting. yeonjun brought you to your school’s garden and pulled up a stool for you to sit in. yeonjun then reached into his bag and gave you a honeybun to munch on assuming you were hungry since you rushed here. you took it with a defeated look and ate it happily which caused him to laugh. you talked for a while; simple introductions were giving and just a little small talk like as if you both were on a speed date.

“how did you know i was president?” you said quietly as yeonjun watered the flowers in the garden. even though he was a popular boy he also ran many clubs including, you guessed it the botanical garden club.

“well, why wouldn’t i? you have a big role in the school and you're hot so.” yeonjun said causing you to choke on the honeybun he had given you.

“w..what” you said quietly as he laughed looking over at you.

“you heard me” he said confidently.

you were about to respond when the bell for the next period rang. you stood up quickly and began to walk away, completely flustered by yeonjun’s actions.

“i um have to get to my next class cause you know school is important and education is great and you know the honeybun was great too and- im just gonna go see you a..around i guess bye” you rambled on causing you to run into multiple things while yeonjun laughed and sent you a quick wave.

“so he just said all that to you.” soobin, one of the members for student council said to you in disbelief. you shook your head quickly replaying what was happening over and over. he probably flirts with everyone but since you always found him attractive you were a little stunned by the actions. you and soobin sat down in the cafeteria for lunch. you, having a mental breakdown and him, laughing at your overdramatic nature.

“he probably does this with everyone though that's why im TRYING to ignore it but this is the first time a guy has talked to me like that since four years ago.” you mumbled loudly and put your head down on the table sighing.

“well its about to happen again.” soobin mumbled as you looked up to see yeonjun walking to you guys’ table.

“do you think if i stay completely still he wont see me?” you whispered to him causing him to laugh again.

“im not sure...im just glad i can live vicariously through you...wow God is good sometimes.” he said pulling out some papers for the council.

“hey y/n are you feeling better after your morning jog?” yeonjun said as you avoided eye contact with him. you were a little awkward to say the least.

“im fine thank you.” you sent him a sarcastic smile as he sat down next to you. your eyes widen at soobin in panic as he tried to hold in his laughter.

“is there something you need or...” you said quietly fidgeting with your fingers.

“oh? you dont want me around?” he said wiping fake tears.

“no its not that i want you to stay well i mean i don't have a problem- with you here i-i was just confused.” you rambled once again causing him to smile at you.

“lets hang out today like actually, not in the garden.” he said making eye contact with you.

“i think that's a GREAT idea!! y/n you have been saying how you wanted to go out more.” soobin said with a smirk causing you to kick his leg from under the table. he yelped in pain quieting down.

“you know what...sure” you said looking at yeonjun as his eyes twinkled at you.

“okay give me your phone.” he said putting his number in with the contact yeonjunnie before handing your phone back. “ill meet you after school” he said getting up and waving goodbye to you and soobin. soobin smirked at you saying how he had a feeling that this was gonna lead to something good.

and it did lead to something good. yeonjun had taken you to an arcade and it was a lot of fun. so you guys went out again, and again, and again. you started to really develop feelings for him but, you were sure it wouldn't work out because you guys are on totally different standings.

you were at home now sitting in your backyard with your feet in the pool. you sighed as you heard a knock on your backdoor and yeonjun came through. after three weeks of hanging out he had came over multiple times. your mom loved him already saying hes “the one.” you both did not really interact at school a lot just little conversation but nothing that would make people wonder.

yeonjun plopped next to you putting his feet in the pool as well as looking over at you. “what's wrong?” he said noticing your sad expression.

“its nothing..dont worry about it.” you said looking away from him. he caressed your face and made you look at him.

“no tell me y/n” he said looking at you with a look you have never seen before. it was hard to understand the look in his eye, it was like you were a prized possession to him.

“well im just scared...? i feel like i..“ you said pondering if you should tell him how you feel. how you feel about him.

“feel like what? you can tell me.” he said lovingly.

“i like you yeonjun. and i know you probably don't like me back because we are just so different and everyone would probably make fun of you because im not pop-“ you were stopped when yeonjun’s lips crashed into yours. you were shocked, eyes widened after he brought his other hand to hold your face but you felt yourself loving the kiss and closing your eyes. he kissed you softly, slowly and gently. it was delicate like he held back because he was afraid of hurting you.

he pulled away slowly opening his eyes and looking up at you. both of you guys feeling breathless after the kiss.

“i like you too y/n” he said looking at you. “i don't care about if you are popular or not or anything like that i think you are amazing” he said softly causing you to smile.

“and i want you to be mine. will you be mine?” he said looking up at you again and sliding a little bracelet on your hand. it was a simple chain with a small heart. you looked down at it smiling softly.

“yes i will.” you said happily as you brought him into a hug. he giggled to himself, yeonjun had not felt something like this in a long time. most of the people around him were superficial and only talked to him because he was popular but it was different with you. it felt real and he wanted to cherish that.

and with that you both started dating. you decided to keep it lowkey at school though, not wanting to disrupt the social hierarchy. yeonjun would meet you for lunch and sit with you and soobin and you guys would hang out after school either going out or at each other houses. you grew to really love yeonjun and couldn't imagine what would happen if he wasn't around.

you smiled to yourself thinking about everything that's been happening between you and yeonjun as you gathered your stuff from your locker between class changes. you felt someone come up next to you to see another well known boy at your school.

“hmm well, who knew miss president was cute.” he said to you while his friends behind him laughed. you gave an awkward smile and turned away hoping he’d just leave you alone.

“you hear me talking to you eh?” he said kind of forcefully as he closed your locker and came closer to you.

“um well thank you but i have a boyfriend so could you please..” you trailed off as he tucked some of your hair behind your ear.

“he doesn't need to know” he whispered as you began to feel uncomfortable. you then felt some arms wrap around your waist and pull you close to them. you could tell it was yeonjun by his smell and the way he held you .

“hey is there something you need.” yeonjun said protectively glaring at the boy. you had never seen him so angry before.

“chill its not like she's yours or anything we were just talking right baby.” he said trying to come closer but yeonjun put you behind him and pushed the guy away.

“well she doesn't wanna talk to you i can assure you that and she is mine so back off kay.” he said getting closer to the boy. a teacher came and broke it up. everyone around you guys were staring in shock. yeonjun stormed off grabbing your hand as he took you to an empty classroom.

“well everyone knows now” you said trying to lighten the mood as yeonjun let out a small laugh. he walked up to you and rested his forehead on yours.

“sorry for getting mad.” he mumbled. you smiled at him ruffling his hair.

“its okay thank you for protecting me my love.” you said looking up at him.

“your love?” he repeated back which you nodded at. you did love yeonjun. even though it only been a short period of time it was like he was your soul mate or your twin flame. everything made sense when he was around; he always made you happy.

yeonjun smiled back at you pulling you into a kiss which you quickly reacted to. this one was more intense. one his hands rested on the desk while the other one was on the small of your back. you melted in the kiss as it made you and yeonjun’s worries completely eradicate, you both only focusing on eachother. you held his face as he slipped his tongue into your mouth. your hand went into his hair causing him to hum. you pulled away slowly as he followed your lips for another kiss cause you to smile.

“okay okay yeonjun were in school.” you blushed pulling away as he kissed down your neck and felt him giggle into it.

“i love you too y/n” he said looking up at you causing you both to smile.

thinking back on it, you were glad you had been late to school that day. if you had not things would have never been the same and your life wouldn't have been changed forever.

#txt post #txt au #txt imagines #txt yeonjun #yeonjun imagines #yeonjun #txt fluff #kpop imagines

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deeisace · 3 years

Text

Okay so. I have researched the owner of this corset:

At the V&A [here], and here’s their description of it:

This corset was designed and made for the wedding of Mrs G.E. Dixon in July 1905. It is an S-bend corset, typified by the straight busk that compelled the pelvis backwards and the bust forwards into an angled ‘S’ shape. The corset offered some light control around the lower abdomen with strategically placed whalebones; however, since corsets rely on boning and strong fabrics for rigidity, the insertion of Mechlin-style machine lace and fine silk satin between the bones show that its function is largely decorative. The neckline is high, and the entire bust area is made of transparent lace decorated with silk flowers. At the bottom of the corset are four long suspender ribbons, attached with small gathered silk rosettes.

The object history: “Made for and worn by the donor, Marie Dixon, for her wedding, July 1905.”

So, we know her name is Marie, and she married someone called G. E. Dixon in 1905! It was made in the UK so let’s presume they lived in the UK, right?

And we know, July 1905. That brings us here -

George Edwin Dixon and Marie Katherine Harriett Bokenham were married on July 19th 1905, in Hanwell, Middlesex. She was 21 and a spinster (not previously married), and he was 42, twice her age and a widower.

Both their fathers were listed as gentlemen - Mr Bokenham was a civil engineer born in Peru in about 1856, who was mostly listed as “living on own means”, i.e., very rich, and Mr Dixon - well. I can’t find him. We know he ought to be Canadian, by G.E.’s 1911 census, but as I can search (that’s UK, USA and Canada, really), I can’t find a George/Geo./Edwin/G. E. Dixon/Dickson/Dickinson etc born to a a man of the same name within ten years of George’s reported birth who might reasonably be described a “gentleman”. There were several farmers in Canada, tho. And a shoemaker. So, I’m thinking, George here lied and bigged himself up a bit for his new wife’s family - given they were reasonably well-off, and to make the age difference a little more palatable, perhaps.

George is listed as a “Doctor of Medicine”, which is also shown on the 1911 census

Here, it’s shown that they’ve been married 5 years, which we know, and that they are now 47 and 26, so nobody fudged facts (or at least dates, anyway) on the marriage record, which is always good to see. George is now the director of a company making “capsuloids for the hair: antitoxine. cicfa”. A bit less fancy, maybe, than “doctor of medicine”, which lends itself to my theory.

More new information is that though they only have two rooms (we count the kitchen as a room, but not the scullery, landing, lobby, closet or bathroom, according to the little box for writing that information in), they do live in Hyde Park, at 20 Cambridge Street (what is now Cambridge Place, I assume after the bombing in the Blitz). They share with their landlady, a Mrs Jessie Craig from Glasgow, who has 9 rooms (and 2 sons and a live-in domestic servant called Lily Ford), and a retired navy lieutenant (”Lieut R N Retired”) by the name of Guy Renton Livingstone, who is Irish and the secretary of a golf school (that’s a thing?) and occupies one room.

A large house, tho the Dixons only have a small part of it.

I do imagine somewhat, though, that this maybe isn’t quite what Marie had in mind when she married a doctor - but you never know, perhaps they were in love or something, I can’t go back in time to ask them, and maybe I’m being far too cynical.

What I have found, though, is they went to America!

From their “arriving passenger” records, I have a description of them, their address in America, their address in England, George’s occupation, and how long they intended to stay.

So, in 1921, George was 58 years old, 5ft half an inch, with a fresh complexion, grey hair and blue eyes, and was a chemist. He is also listed as having visited the US in 1892.

Marie was 38, 5ft 5, with a fresh complexion, brown hair and brown eyes.

They lived in Marlow, Bucks, in the UK, but they intended to stay permanently in the USA - their American address as listed was 14 East 50th Street New York, tho I don’t know much at all about New York as to tell you about that, tbh, but I do know from Google Maps, it’s just near Madison Ave and 5th Ave, which to me sounds very fancy.

Above the “permanent”, in pencil, there’s a note that says “2 mo.”, and they did not intend to become citizens.

I’m not sure if they did only stay their intended 2 months, or what happened, but the next record I have is that they return to England in April 1928, 1st class to Bristol. The “incoming passenger” list gives much less information, but I know that George is still the director of a company, and they are going to live at Cedar Cottage in Marlow.

Here it is!

George dies, unfortunately, in September that same year - maybe they returned to England as he was sick, I don’t know. His effects were over £30k, which is over £1.3 million today.

From the accession number on the corset, I think this is when Marie donated her wedding corset to the V&A.

Marie, however, didn’t much hang around, shall we say.

She went to India, and married a man called Richard Valentine Read on 6th December 1929, the very same year she was widowed.

I haven’t a description of Richard, because I can’t access his war records properly, but I know his middle name was Valentine because he was born on Valentine’s Day in 1892 - he was four years younger than Marie. His father was a member of the London Stock Exchange, and Richard was a colonel in the British military (I know he had shore leave in Puerto Rico in 1939) - in 1925, leaving Liverpool on a round cruise to Lisbon and the Canary Islands, he’s listed as “Capt R V Read, DSO MC” which denotes him as someone of Distinguished Service who earned the Military Cross.

They went to America in early 1933 - to Santa Barbara, California, this time, to visit a Mrs Carrington for a week, at Villa Riposte.

Aha, here we have a description of them both. Marie is 5ft6, now with grey hair and brown eyes, at 47 years old. Richard is 6ft4, with grey hair and blue eyes, at 41 years old. Their last address is in “Kawalpiudi”, India - I rather think that’s a terrible spelling of Rawalpindi, which is now Pakistan - but their American visas were issued in London.

Oh, their incoming New York papers have more description info.

Marie is “sallow” with brown hair and brown eyes, and Richard is “fair” with light brown hair and grey eyes, a tattoo on his right forearm and a war scar on his right shoulder.

I wonder at the difference in their descriptions between December 1932 (New York) and January 1933 (Los Angeles), but there’s no solving that I spose. It’ll just be the different people who took their details down.

They were quite jetsetters actually - I assume, in some way it was with Richard’s job, since he’s listed once as an attaché - they went to Genoa in February 1935, Yokohama in August 1936, New York in 1938 - though Richard went alone to Marseilles in 1935, and to Palestine in 1937.

I can’t find any record following these, or of Marie’s death - there are too many Marie Read’s about, and she might’ve been recorded as Mary, as well, so I can’t narrow it down, and there’s nothing I can find in the British papers - I do know that Richard remarried in 1953, though, and died at sea in 1964. He lived in Fredonia NY, and left £6000 to his wife Joyce.

So! I haven’t quite the whole story, I don’t think, but a lot of it at least, which is something!

It’s a shame I couldn’t find photos or anything, but I found quite a bit I reckon.

#either way marie had fancy clothes #and very sexy (for 1905) wedding night lingerie!#corset #corsetry #lingerie #history #research

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thessaliadpdx · 3 years

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Interlude: Field Marshal Zhuāngyuán Rallies the Troops. Chuntian Cao Gets the Girl. Master Yuanyuan, Ahem, Third Master Shen, Gets His Fourth Apartment.

Unbeknownst to Shen Yuan, he was the subject of much concern. Back at the Shen Family Estate, Da-ge smacked Er-ge upside the head. An embarrassment to the Shen Family name! Little Brother was raised better than that! Baba would have been disappointed! Mama would have cried!

Er-ge drooped and nodded in agreement. “Yes, Da-ge. I’ll go over and apologize as soon as he will see me.”

The Brothers Shen worked themselves into a froth about their family’s Yuanyuan getting a roommate. They weren’t the only ones. The other residents of the Shen Family Estate were also deeply concerned. Upon hearing that Shen Yuan was to have a long-term houseguest, Steward Zhuangyuan fretted about Shen Yuan being deprived. Master Yuanyuan, ahem, Third Master Shen couldn’t possibly accommodate a long-term guest in his cramped, pokey little apartment! (Shen Real Estate Agent: “Pokey? It’s 360 square meters with four rooms!”) In Steward Zhuangyuan’s opinion, Master Yuanyuan only picked it because it had decent light. They should have rented another apartment in the same building and made it into a studio.

Steward Zhuangyuan recollected the effort required to make for Master Yuanyuan’s, ahem, Third Master Shen’s current apartment passable. Only two years ago, it had been a struggle. The Shen Family employees had done their best, but the steward still felt it barely up to standard for a Shen. Thank goodness Master Yuanyuan was so biddable. Steward Zhangyuan remembered when the frighteningly tiny young master had first come home, barely larger than a grapefruit. He remembered all the hospital stays thereafter. Everyone did, and they worried about Master Yuanyuan so, counting the months until the next time. So far it had been two years, but everyone still held their breath.

Master Yuanyuan was the last reminder of the late Madam Shen, the artistic genius and gracious mistress. (Steward Zhuangyuan declined to remember all the times she screamed and threw oily paintbrushes at her husband’s head. He usually deserved it.) Master Yuanyuan, unlike his older brothers, was a gentleman, a scholar, and an artistic genius in his own right. (Steward Zhuangyuan also declined to remember all the times Master Yuanyuan screamed and threw ink brushes at his father and brothers when they denied him things they perceived as for his own good. They usually deserved it.)

At the very least The Young Master had needed a studio, a study, an office, a game room, a master bedroom and a guest bedroom for that questionable friend of his. (Shang Qinghua: “Hey! I’m a nice guy! I didn’t know he was sixteen when he read my book!”) Master Yuanyuan, as sweet and good-natured as ever, kindly suggested that he could tutor students in the dining room, and place bookshelves against the wall. He also suggested that the living room also be used for gaming, movies, and music.

Upon hearing that, First Master Shen gleefully called the Chairman of Hangsong to send their latest TV, something experimental. Six people from Shen Construction marched into the apartment. Four reinforced the living room wall, added a wall mount, and installed a 250cm television. Two wired the room for the TV, added a home theater sound system from Onsuhi, and a GM6 with the lastest games, some of which were review copies. The two grinned at the other four. Testing was an essential part of installation, right?

Auntie Chu had found the tiny 20-square-meter kitchen marginal, at best. The appliances were old and shabby. (If the refrigerator could talk: “Hey! I’m only two years old and I cost 6899 yuan! Rude!” The stove just cried, greatly aggrieved. uwuwuwuwu) Auntie Chu nodded her head firmly. She knew what to do. Meals would be delivered every day from the Shen Estate, and new appliances must be ordered.

First Master Shen gleefully did more research. He looked for something modest, and called Chufang Bangshou for a French-door refrigerator, complete with pull-out drawer for cold cuts and snacks, and a pull-out freezer. A steal for 23,000 yuan. Then he called Zhu Rong Stoves, and ordered the four-burner self-cleaning convection gas range with the 50,000 BTU wok burner. He also ordered a fume hood. A trifling 60,000 yuan.

The previous six people from Shen Construction carried in the refrigerator, stove, and hood. An additional seventh person went with to hook up the natural gas. The Head Chef certified in Medicinal Cuisine Auntie Chu lightly walked behind. Finally, several Shen Estate kitchen staff rolled in a couple coolers. Under Auntie Chu’s gimlet eye the Shen Construction workers carefully attached and installed the new refrigerator, fume hood, and stove.

Auntie Chu pronounced herself satisfied, and waved at her assistants, who promptly opened coolers of prepped ingredients and set up additional burners. Under the famished, yearning gaze of the Shen Construction crew, they whipped up a banquet and laid it before the workers. It was like Lunar New Year and Great-Grandfather’s 100th birthday and the Grandparents’ 50th wedding anniversary all at once. They would have to save a year for food this good, assuming there was a place that served it.

Auntie Chu said, “Testing is an important part of installation. Yes?”

Seven heads bobbed up and down like chickens.

Auntie Chu and her assistants left. The original six grinned at each other, then at the seventh. The TV, music, and gaming systems needed to be tested again. Testing, indeed, was an important part of installation.

The 8K 200Hz TV was a beast compared to what any of them had at home. The seventh looked around when they heard a glass shatter. Wow, just wow.

This was probably going to be the last time they could play, and they all mourned silently.

Next was Auntie Wu. She inspected the apartment with white gloves, found dust, and sniffed at the substandard work. Filthy. (Housekeeping: “She wiped the back of the fridge! Unfair!”) The laundry service left a wrinkle in some sheets. (Laundry: “Hey! The main pressing iron is down! We did them all by hand and on time!”)

Auntie Wu decided that the Shen staff would dust daily, and launder everything at home. The conditions were abysmal. Master Yuanyuan was so brave. Her mouth wobbled. She’d never imagined he’d live this long. She’d been terrified that dust would cause him to have a bronchospasm and die. She had to call the ambulance so many times, even though a doctor and three nurses resided on the grounds.

Driver Siji had donned some old clothes, approached the car service manager and had asked for directions to S University. The manager said that he would have to use GPS. Driver Siji told Steward Zhuangyuan that the manager couldn’t find their way out of a paper bag. (Service Drivers: “Hey! He can’t find his way out of a paper bag! That’s why he doesn’t drive!”) He also found a footprint in one of the floormats. Lazy. (Driver: “Hey! I just went to pee!”)

Driver Siji had decided that they would have one of the Estate staff on site. There would have to be three, for twenty-four-hour coverage. Driver Siji remembered when he used to drive Young Master Yuanyuan to University at age ten. Master Yuanyuan was so tiny, a skinny little bird with thick, goggle-like glasses. Driver Siji had worried that he would trip and break a bone.

Driver Siji had reported to Madam that The Youngest Master seemed exhausted, and suggested that it might be better for him to stay at home. The fiery Madam Shen said that The Youngest Master would attend University as long as he wished, until he said otherwise. Madam Shen then inquired if Driver Siji needed to be assigned elsewhere. Driver Siji wanted to kowtow in the face of such ferocity, but bowed deeply instead and apologized for his presumption. Appeased, Madam Shen accepted his apology and said he would resume his current duties, as he was the best driver they had. Grateful, Driver Siji wanted to walk backwards to the door, like in an Imperial drama.

#####

Head Gardener Huayuan had much better luck. Upon first inspection, the shrubbery was cheap and ill-shaped. No flowers brightened the neighborhood. Pretending to be a prospective student’s grandfather, he performed a little investigation of his own. Landscape Supervisor Xiang was a sensible person, a very good seedling. She had a master’s degree in horticulture from Q Agricultural University, first in her class. She picked this job to support her mother back home. After a while, the usually stand-offish childless widower said, “Call me Grandpa.”

Xiang Hua’s mouth wobbled a little bit, because her grandfather died when she was young, and she missed him terribly. She discussed with the very knowledgeable Grandpa Huayuan the city’s push for water reduction. She also confessed her dream to see wild birds live where she worked. The kindly retiree understood the difficulty of maintaining such extensive grounds with such a tiny budget. Naturescaping was the perfect solution, and letting native plants grow wild created nesting sites and fed local insects, which in turn fed the birds.

Such a wise and creative person must be encouraged. Grandpa Huayuan and Xiao Xiang discussed favorite flowers, and Xiao Xiang described her collection of orchids in her tiny apartment. Grandpa Huayuan described some of the orchids he’d seen in private collections. He’d even seen the gardens of the Shen Estate. Xiao Xiang sighed. She’d seen a feature article in a floriculture magazine.

A couple days later, the usual seven from Shen Construction had arrived to install bookshelves. The actual job only required three people at the very most, but they slunk off anyway.

Incidentally, their supervisor reported the information to The Big Boss as ordered. Big Boss Shen had wanted updates on all work done on Third Master Shen’s apartment. Big Boss chuckled and waved his hand. They’re the best we’ve got, he said, and they all work hard. They deserve a little reward. Testing is a necessary part of installation, no?

The supervisor nodded.

Additionally, one of the junior gardeners rode along, holding a basket. He was to meet someone named Xiang Hua, the landscape supervisor. The delivery was of upmost importance. Head Gardener had told the junior that his mission was vital to the Shen Estate Gardens. He was to deliver the basket, and report back without delay. The junior had nodded so hard his chest wobbled. Upon finding Landscape Supervisor Xiang, he thrust the basket into her hands and scurried off.

Xiang Hua, curious, opened the basket. Inside was a rare orchid she wouldn’t have been able to afford, assuming she could find one for sale. Next to it was an envelope.

The letter read:

“Xiao Xiang, I must apologize for my deception. I originally came to inspect the landscaping to see if the environs was worthy of our Third Master. I have not had such a lively conversation with a junior in a very long time.

Someone with your gifts is wasted here, and should be working in an environment where you can learn and grow. Come and work for Grandpa Huayuan instead.

Sincerely,

Huayuan Yuan, Head Gardener, Shen Estate Gardens”

The letter named a salary that was twice what she currently made. It also mentioned that living quarters and meals were provided. Her mother would be able to live there if so desired.

Xiang Hua, a country girl raised on a poor family farm, started to cry. It was a dream come true.

Chuntian Cao, the lead worker of her construction crew, noticed a young, tiny, pretty woman reading a letter and crying. Taller than most men at 180cm, she lumbered over to see if she could help. Chuntian Cao was a woman of fine tastes and knew a good thing when she saw the Meimei, or Little Sister, in distress. The wet, reddened eyes like a little white rabbit’s rendered Caocao helpless. The callused fingers dusty with a little dirt made Meimei even more of a catch. A hard worker with such pretty features would make for a perfect wife, especially for a plain fisherman’s daughter. She really wanted to give Meimei a hug and eat some tofu, but now was definitely not the time.

She sidled closer to Meimei and silently offered a hug. “Hey there, Meimei. Why so sad? Some dumbass said goodbye?” She wrapped her arm around a lightly muscled shoulder. She looked down, and noted the delicacy of a collarbone. She dropped her voice. “Does Meimei need someone beaten up?” She rumbled. “I’m good at that.” She didn’t lie. At 90 kilos of muscle from pulling nets then hauling lumber, Chuntian Cao packed a deadly punch. She loved beating the shit out of people who deserved it. Unfortunately, the guys at Shen Construction were well-behaved. She went to bars instead.

Meimei plastered herself against Chuntian Cao in a hug and bawled. It was like an idol drama, only Chuntian Cao was the school grass, and Meimei was the school flower. She resisted eating the tofu, but it was really hard. Chuntian Cao waved at her crew and mouthed at them to go on up. They grinned at her and waved back. Xiao Hu, that fucker, made kissy faces. She wanted to gesture back, but her hands were occupied.

Meimei hiccuped, “I just got the best news in my life and I don’t know what to do!” She held out the letter with a trembling hand.

Chuntian Cao read it. “Old Man Gardener offered you a job? He told you to call him Grandpa? I’d never believed it if I hadn’t seen it!” She gave Meimei a squeeze. No eating the tofu, Caocao. Be good.

Meimei snuggled up and held on tight. Caocao looked up to the heavens and breathed in deep. She sighed, and bit her lip. It was even better when the tofu ate you. She patted Meimei on the head. “Gonna come and work for us?”

“Mmm?” Meimei looked up, dazed.

“I’m with Shen Construction!” Chuntian Cao said proudly. “I’m the lead worker of my crew. Wanna come up and hang out with us? I’ll introduce ya!”

Meimei pressed close enough that the only way she could get closer was for Chuntian Cao to crack her chest open and spread her ribs wide. For such a sugar-sweet armful, Caocao would be perfectly willing to do so. Would Meimei top? Caocao sincerely hoped so.

“Okay,” Meimei said.

Meimei’s name was Xiang Hua, and she ate and gamed with the crew. The now-eight workers knew this was their last chance at testing the systems, so they were going to do their best. Beer, snacks, fried chicken and barbecue were the order of the day, and a merry time was had by all.

At the end of Caocao’s first date with Xiang Hua, Caocao got pushed down backwards on her own bed. Xiang Hua straddled her hips. Xiang Hua said that Caocao was the Meimei, and Meimeis did what their Jiejies, their Big Sisters, told them to.

Caocao sighed with happiness. Fucking finally. She was so tired of being a Jiejie. Everyone assumed that a 180cm, 90 kilo, plain-faced girl wanted to be a Jiejie. Caocao had always insisted she wanted to be a spoiled little Meimei instead, but no one believed her.

They got married in the Shen Estate Gardens the following year. Mama Xiang teared with pride, then flew back home to the countryside. Caocao cried with relief that her mother-in-law wasn’t going to live with them. Huajie hummed with pleasure when she made her little Caomei apologize with desperation.

Caomei, with the help of a fertility clinic and amazing health benefits, bore two babies by her Huajie. Mama Xiang cried at being Grandma Xiang. Grandpa Yuan cried at being Great-Grandpa Yuan. The spoiled little Caomei had little ones to spoil in turn. She loved it.

Huajie, now Assistant Head Gardener Xiang, smiled with satisfaction--a tigress overlooking her tigress and their little tiger cubs.

#####

Steward Zhuangyuan gathered the senior staff, and cobbled together a plan of action. The apartment had been upgraded as best they could. The winning crew from Shen Construction had moved everything in. Auntie Wu’s staff had put it to rights. Auntie Chu’s staff had stocked the refrigerator, arranged the utensils, flatware, and glassware. They had made meal plans.

Master Yuanyuan smashed all the plans to bits. Auntie Wu’s staff were only allowed over once a week. She cried into her handkerchief. Auntie Chu’s staff were only allowed to drop off pre-prepped meals for him to cook himself. And that was only every three days. She sniffled discreetly. Driver Siji was only allowed to send someone when called, and only when called. No hanging around the garage, “just in case.” Driver Siji wiped his eyes with his sleeve.

First Master and Second Master commiserated with Steward Zhuangyuan, but there was nothing they could do. The late Madam Shen had made it very clear to the two that Yuanyuan was to make his own decisions, and they were to butt out. Yuanyuan was smart enough to understand what he was and was not capable of, and they needed to respect his wishes. And that, was that.

Occasionally they forgot, but that was for another time.

Finally, the cherished but astonishingly unspoiled Master Yuanyuan moved in, quite pleased with his cozy abode. Only 360 square meters with four bedrooms! Nice furnishings, but not too grand! Having the latest electronics was okay. He was now a solid member of the middle class!

Shang Qinghua, good friend and sponge extraordinaire, hated to break it to his best friend that his “middle class apartment” was solidly in the upper five percent. Shen Yuan’s face fell. The personal services kicked him up to the upper one percent. Black lines filled Shen Yuan’s face.

Shen Yuan’s plan of having a place near the campus that wouldn’t terrify his students failed utterly. His more privileged students, ready to intimidate “Some guy named Shen Yuan my parents forced me to see,” were intimidated in turn by his exquisite manners and knowledge at such a young age. To the manor born, so to speak. After hearing from their parents that he was one of Those Shens, they meeped instead of roared.

His underprivileged students, in awe at the surroundings, were even more in awe with this friendly Young Master. Their favorite professor in Classical Chinese had referred them, and they had worried they wouldn’t be good enough. Later, they felt honored to be tutored by the nicest rich person they had ever met, a true genius. He was obviously better off than the snooty rich kids at the university, but he didn’t act like it. He was so cool, he’d invite them to game when their session was over. He was even pretty enough to be the school flower of the entire campus!

#####

That was then, but now Master Yuanyuan had a houseguest. Would Master Yuanyuan finally come home? Please say yes!

Steward Zhuangyuan received a call, but it was not the call he wanted. Instead of returning to where he belonged, Master Yuanyuan was going to move into a villa instead. A villa! How horrid!

#too sexy for my cat #toosexyformycat #Shen Family #Shen Yuan is the spoiled baby of the family #Everybody loves Shen Yuan #Shen Yuan's brothers are goofballs #shen yuan #svsss fic #outsider pov #Shen Family servants #Shen Estate

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theuniversitychallengereview · 4 years

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UC 50.1 - Glasgow vs Exeter

When the 49th series of The Challenge ended in April, I wasn’t sure if there would be a 50th - at least not on its usual timeline - what with the lockdown surely putting paid to the recording of a quiz show. And I wasn’t wrong about that, but the early matches had been squeezed in before everything shut down, and I believe there are plans to get the next lot of shows filmed at some point before the run of pre-recorded ones ends, because everything is now completely okay and there are no longer any risks associated with the virus (wait, hang on a second...)

I am aware that this post comes four weeks after the return of Paxman and his box of tricks, but I’m afraid you’re just going to have to deal with that (not that you will have been feeling any resentment anyway) and accept this bumper quartet as my peace offering. I also have some more exciting things to offer if you stick around to the end.

Raising the curtains of the 50th series were Glasgow and Exeter, two sides with recent experience of raising curtains, having each opened one of the past two seasons.

Glasgow looked imperious in their first round match last year, but were upset by an exciting Courtauld team in the second round, while Exeter haven’t made it past the first round since 2011.

Paxman cracks out the phrase ‘pellucid fecundity’ in his introduction, which, according to the top definitions on Google means ‘the translucently clear ability to produce a large number of offspring’, which seems odd (I’ll go and check the secondary definitions later - I don’t have all day to spend inside a dictionary).

He also claims that Dr Who is the most famous alumnus of Glasgow, and I was about to say ‘how can he be the most famous alumnus when no one knows that fact about him?’ (because surely that’s not a very well-known fact), but I suppose it would be the same with most other institutions. You don’t need to know that someone went to a Uni for them to be the most famous alumnus, do you? It just seems weird when its a timelord you’re talking about.

Anyway, let’s not waste your time with the rules, here’s your first starter for ten (I always wonder if that should be a semi-colon before the ‘here’s’, so if any of you are grammarians, I’d be grateful for confirmation).

Nieves only needs to hear ‘fruit’ and ‘Prokofiev’ before buzzing early with ‘oranges’ to get the series underway. He’s so confident that he tries to give his answer before Roger Tilling has finished annoucing his name, but he gets there in the end, and they took one bonus on brutalist architecture, before Nieves undid some of his good work with a Neg on the next Starter.

This gave Exeter an opportunity, and they duly took the lead with a hat-trick on the year 1963. But Williams returned the favour with a penalty of his own, and Glasgow pulled ahead, taking the picture round on Spanish-lanaguage descriptions of Spanish-speaking flags (the people of the country, not the flags. The flags can’t speak).

The Scottish side held their lead going into the music round, which, bizarrely, was almost entirely recycled from a quarter final match last year (reddit thread linked). I can only imagine this was an oversight, and I know they often use similar questions in the science and literature topics, but they’re never usually identical.

Exeter, who won’t have been able to benefit from having seen the question before, given that it was broadcast after the recording of this show (although, theoretically, a contestant could have been in the audience for last year’s episode), took twenty points from the set, and went on a good run to close within five of the Scots.

Glasgow don’t like this though, and go on a little run of their own, stretching their lead out with a full set on words beginning with ‘spec’. There’s not enough time for Exeter to mount a second comeback after this, and at the gong Glasgow were fifty-five clear on two hundred.

Final Score: Glasgow 200 - 145 Exeter

This was a match won very clearly on the buzzer, with Glasgow taking 12 starters to Exeter’s 7. Despite this Exeter actually got more bonuses right (17 to Glasgow’s 16, even though they had 13 fewer questions with which to do it), so Glasgow will need to up their game if they hope to progress further, against teams who will doubtless be better on the ten pointers.

#university challenge #bbc2 #glasgow #exeter #paxman

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360ofopera · 4 years

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10 LGBTQ+ OPERAS YOU SHOULD KNOW 🌈

#HappyPride from @360ofopera & our Guest contributor @thelibrettist (Fabrizio Funari) 💫

Fabrizio put together a fantastic list of 𝟭𝟬 𝗟𝗚𝗕𝗧𝗤+ 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄 🏳️‍🌈 🎶

In no particular order, they are:

1. Stonewall

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall uprising and the 75th year of New York City Opera (NYCO), general director Michael Capasso debuted the world premiere of the LGBTQI+ focused new opera by Iain Bell and Mark Campbell, “Stonewall” on June 21, 2019.

Currently the only opera company that houses a series supporting Pride Month, NYCO establishes a unique opportunity for audiences abound to explore lesser-known stories on a grand scale.

Based in NYC, the librettist Mark Campbell tells the story of an array of individuals that seek more from life while on their journey of self-discovery. And it may be hard to imagine NYC in 1969, unless one experienced it themselves. Therefore, here are a few facts, shared by director Leonard Foglia in the NYCO program, that shed light on this time:

https://operawire.com/new-york-city-opera-2018-19-review-stonewall/

Photo: Sarah Shatz

2. As One

A compelling and thought-provoking story about Hannah, a transgender woman, as she endeavors to resolve the discord between herself and the outside world. As One is a celebration of the human character revealed through drama, music, and film.

https://www.operacolumbus.org/as-one/

Photo: Matthew Staver

3. Fellow Travelers

At the height of the McCarthy era in 1950s Washington, D.C., recent college grad Timothy Laughlin is eager to join the crusade against communism. A chance encounter with a handsome State Department official, Hawkins Fuller, leads to Tim’s first job—and his first love affair with a man. Drawn into a maelstrom of deceit, Tim struggles to reconcile his political convictions and his forbidden love for Fuller—an entanglement that will end in a stunning act of betrayal.

https://www.cincinnatiopera.org/fellow-travelers

Photo: Dan Norman

4. Champion

Champion tells the story of Emile Griffith, a closeted bisexual boxer who knocked out Benny “Kid” Paret in 1962 after his opponent mocked him as a “maricón” during a pre-fight press conference. This fateful third Welterweight title-match between the two rivals proved fatal for Paret, who died from the beating ten daysafter the fight. It was also traumatic for Griffith, who would be tormented throughout his life with guilt over killing a fellow athlete.

Blanchard’s opera introduces Griffith as an elderly man, confused with dementia from years of pugilistic abuse, reliving his inner and outer struggles in a series of flashbacks.

https://www.operanews.com/Opera_News_Magazine/2016/3/Reviews/SAN_FRANCISCO__Champion.html

Photo: https://www.ft.com/content/b73e62b0-de48-11e2-9b47-00144feab7de

5. 27

27 (or Twenty-Seven) is an opera by composer Ricky Ian Gordon and librettist Royce Vavrek in a prologue and five acts, that explores the relationship of Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas, and the salons that they hosted at their residence at 27 rue de Fleurus in Paris.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/27_(opera)

Photo: Ken Howard/Opera Theatre of Saint Louis

6. Before Night Falls

Based on the book of the same name, Before Night Falls is the story of Rey (Reinaldo Arenas), a Cuban writer who faces a terrifying situation in his homeland: neither is he free to be and to express himself artistically, nor is he free to leave. He is persecuted and silenced, but he resolves to escape.

Through deceit and luck, he successfully flees the island. Once outside that “island prison” he realizes the irony that although he is now “free” he forever carries within him the sense of persecution, and in addition, hesuddenly faces his own premature death. Rey hastens to write his memoir (which is the substance of this opera) before he dies-- “before night falls” -- to give witness to his struggle for personal, political, and artistic freedom, a universal and perennial struggle. His character is both irrepressible and joyful; his story at once tragic and uplifting-- a perfect combination for opera.

https://www.operaamerica.org/applications/nawd/newworks/details.aspx?id=182

Photo: https://www.cubanheritage.com/before-night-falls-an-opera/

7. Patience and Sarah

Based on the novel of the same name by Isabel Miller, Patience and Sarah has been described as the first lesbian opera and as the first mainstream gay-themed opera. The plot of the opera follows that of the novel fairly closely, with the wealthy and well-educated Patience and the poor farmer’s daughter Sarah falling in love and sharing their dreams of leaving Connecticut to go pioneering.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patience_and_Sarah_(opera)

Photo: Maria Baranova

8. Death in Venice

The writer Gustav von Aschenbach is depressed and suffering from writer’s block. An encounter with a mysterious Traveller makes him decide to travel south to Venice to refresh his imagination. At his hotel in Venice, Aschenbach is struck by the beauty of Tadzio, a Polish boy who is holidaying with his family.

https://www.roh.org.uk/tickets-and-events/death-in-venice-by-david-mcvicar-details

Photo: ENO/ Hugo Glendinning

9. Angels in America

Prior Walter (Andrew Garland) is a 30-year-old New Yorker recently diagnosed with AIDS. Prior’s neurotic partner Louis Ironson (Aaron Blake) shacks up with the closeted Mormon lawyer Joe Pitt (Michael Weyandt), and Joe, in turn, leaves his Valium-addicted wife Harper (Sarah Beckham-Turner).

The opera is based on both parts of the Angels in America fantasia, however the script was re-worked and condensed to fit both parts into a two and half hour show. Composer Peter Eötvös explains: “In the opera version, I put less emphasis on the political line than Kushner...I rather focus on the passionate relationships, on the highly dramatic suspense of the wonderful text, on the permanently uncertain state of the visions.”

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angels_in_America

https://www.theatermania.com/new-york-city- theater/reviews/angels-in-america-the-opera_81450.html

Photo: Sarah Shatz

10. Young Ceasar

The work is a kind of prequel to Handel’s Giulio Cesare, focusing on Gaius Julius Caesar’s sad days—the death of his father, his marriage to Cornelia and his military service in Asia Minor.

Robert Gordon provided a meticulously researched libretto overladen with historical detail; characters intone dry descriptions of ceremonial etiquette or Roman politics in Harrison’s lengthy pentatonic recitatives. Things get juicier in the second half, when Gaius is sent on a mission to the Black Sea kingdom of Bithynia to request naval reinforcements from Nicomedes IV. He and the king strike up an intense love affair until Caesar remembers his Aunt Julia’s admonition that “Only the dead can afford the luxury of limitless time” and returns to Rome to fulfill his heroic destiny.

https://www.operanews.com/Opera_News_Magazine/2018/7/Recordings/HARRISON__Young_Caesar.html

Photo: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/arts/la-et-cm-young-caesar-20170613-htmlstory.html

Which ones of these operas are you familiar with? We hope this list inspires you to make some new discoveries! 🏳️‍🌈

Happy Pride Month!

Xoxo 💋

#TheLibrettist x #360ofOpera

#360ofOpera HappyPride PrideMonth lgbtq+ Opera

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lakersworld · 4 years

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‘My beloved Kobe’: Lower Merion coach Gregg Downer pens essay on Kobe Bryant’s passing.⁣

⁣

My favorite sports moments came during the 20 years of soaking up every second of my idol’s — my hero’s — Lakers career. My beloved Kobe Bryant.⁣

⁣For two decades, I kept West Coast time as Kobe ascended to greatness and perfected what he’d started at Lower Merion. I learned to get by on five hours of sleep while Kobe became the greatest champion and most feared competitor of his generation.⁣

⁣I saw Kobe’s air balls in Utah, his buzzer-beaters, his 81-point game, the rings and near misses. I witnessed his absolute greatness as a player. And I did so with immense pride, recalling the journey we took together to win a state title in Lower Merion, a journey in which he taught me how to win and pushed me to be the best coach I could be.⁣

⁣When asked by some stray reporter for the 50th time if I would ever have another Kobe Bryant, the answer was simple, and it will always be the same: absolutely no way.⁣

The moments we spent together were even more special. I shot free throws with him at the old Forum before practices. I swam and ate a few meals with him at his house overlooking the Pacific. I traveled to games all over the country, including the Finals series against Indiana, Orlando, Boston, and, of course, Philly. We exchanged e-mails about strategy. I worked his basketball camps. I introduced him annually to current Aces players.⁣

⁣And in a private moment, deep in the halls of Lower Merion High School, he became one of the first to know a dream of mine was about to come true. My beautiful wife, Colleen, was pregnant. We stopped in front of Room 225 for an embrace I will never forget. He was so happy for me. And I was so happy he was there.⁣

My father died, at 89, last fall. He also watched 20 years of Kobe’s play — 24, if you include high school — and it helped strengthen the bond between us. Dad would tape the late games and watch them in the morning. If we felt Kobe had an off night, we simply erased the DVR.⁣

Every morning, when I called my dad, most conversations would start with "Did you see what Kobe did last night?” I can’t imagine Dad’s shock when Kobe entered heaven on Jan. 26. I hope they are buddies and watching old game tapes together.⁣

The memorial at Staples was a Mount Rushmore of basketball experiences. If the premise had been different, if the celebration had been for lives present instead of lives past, it would have been the pinnacle of my career.⁣

⁣I’d been looking forward to that moment at next summer’s Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction. It would have been a joyous reunion and the moment of a basketball lifetime for a scrawny kid from Media, Pa., who never could have imagined he’d one day coach the NBA’s biggest and brightest star.⁣

⁣At the memorial ceremony, I hugged Kobe’s sisters and parents tight, and the tears never stopped. Vanessa’s speech was one of courage, resilience, and leadership. Although I don’t know her, I was so proud of her. Kobe would have loved her toughness and resolve and would have demanded she fight on for their three other daughters.⁣

With the world hanging on her every word, Vanessa gave a beautiful, intimate remembrance of Kobe and Gianna. Diana Taurasi and Sabrina Ionescu symbolized Kobe’s immense pride and passion in being a #girldad and made it clear that Gianna was developing into another Mamba. They thought that she would one day be in the WNBA. This was not idle speculation. Gianna could have been whatever she wanted to be and had the perfect father to guide her dreams.⁣

⁣I knew before many that Kobe’s real dream was to be the next Michael Jordan. We talked about it often as he developed from age 13 to 17, and you could clearly see it in his mannerisms, his imitations. Michael was a huge part of his identity.⁣

Jordan’s speech was iconic, just like the man himself. With tears pouring down his face, the ever-so-stoic and prideful Jordan — he of the six championship rings Kobe so relentlessly chased — acknowledged that Kobe was his little brother and that Kobe was an amazing player. Kobe had to have been smiling ear to ear from the heavens as his hero validated his greatness and gave him his due. I hope Kobe and Gianna shared that incredible moment.⁣

Most have no idea the work that went into Kobe’s chase of Michael’s acceptance and full respect. And I’m sure Kobe still wants M.J. one-on-one when he eventually joins him in heaven. Michael had better remember to bring his sneakers.⁣

The speeches have ended, but for me the essential question still remains: How do I move forward from this horrific tragedy? I am a teacher, coach, father, and husband. I, like many, am not sure I have the answers right now.⁣

Memories and flashbacks are everywhere at Lower Merion. Ten months each year, six days a week, I coach in the gym Kobe built. He can pop into my head at any moment. One morning, I spontaneously dropped and did 24 push ups for no apparent reason.⁣

Kobe needs his high school coach to be strong. My current players need it. My students need it. I need to continue to affect players and students in a positive way, as I’ve been trying my best to do for 30 years. Kobe needs me to stand tall and sharpen my resolve. The ceremony helped, but I miss my hero immensely.⁣

⁣I have a beautiful 7-year old daughter named Brynn Riley. She is my pride and joy. Every time Kobe saw her, he picked her up and hugged her tight. We smiled ear to ear, as did Brynn. He held her like his own.⁣

The “girl dad” movement Kobe ignited is something that now feels tangible to me. Maybe that’s the lasting connection to Kobe I need. Brynn comes to my games. She alternates between cheerleading and actually helping coach the team. She brings a clipboard. She comes to the film studies and all the pep talks. Her favorite activity after big wins is soaking her dad with water during locker-room parties. She recently made her first basket on a 10-foot hoop and completed two weeks of my summer basketball camp without complaint.⁣

We swim together, have sleepovers by the fireplace, do gymnastics, soccer, and baseball together. And recently, our favorite activity is our own version of backyard NFL football: Eagles vs. Patriots. Much to our delight, the Eagles always win, even if her extra points are a little low off the back fence. We laugh together and cry together through all aspects of life.⁣

⁣Like any parent, I want Brynn to have a great, successful, healthy life. She can be whatever she wants to be, and I want more than anything else to be the girl dad who helps and guides her through the good and bad. Kobe’s love for his girls, his legacy as a father, strengthens me. The bond we shared in raising our daughters is the greatest gift of our relationship. It’s what inspires me most.⁣

My players know I like to choose short phrases and collections of words to motivate and guide us during the season. I am going to focus on three words for my own motivation and peace of mind: courage, resilience, and love. Coaches need a game plan. For the first time since Jan. 26, I feel I have one.⁣

⁣

Gregg Downer as told to Mike Sielski | via Inquirer ⁣

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⁣

#lakers #losangeleslakers #lakernation #lakeshow #kobe #purpleandgold #blackmamba #kobebryant #nba #lakersworld16

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goofygoldengirl · 4 years

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Ok Everyone I’m On A Roll Today

I’m gonna give you a proper explanation as to why we’ll never get a Led Zeppelin movie.

Buckle up cause this is gonna get long.

We, as classic rock fans live in an age of reminiscence. We take out our records, cds, mp3s and sit back, relax, and think of the glory days that we’ve never experienced if we’re under the age of 50. Even though we’re decently mainstream, The Queen movie Bohemian Rhapsody took interest in classic rock to new heights. It was critically acclaimed, Rami Malek won an oscar, and fans of other bands of the 60s-80s stirred with anticipation for the day they would get their band in the limelight. A fan, like myself, and many others, knowing that 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of Led Zeppelin’s (also referred here as LZ) creation (although they officially got together in 1968) perhaps are wondering if they are going to get a surprise biopic announcement in the near future.

However, I have come to crush everybody’s dreams. The answer is never as long as the remaining band members are still alive. Now before y’all get out your pitchforks, let’s focus our attention to the most important member of this debate: guitarist James Patrick Page, also known as Jimmy Page, Pagey, and Jimmurs back in the deviantart LZ community in 2010.

Although Led Zeppelin arose from the planning and careful selection of the higher ups at Atlantic Records (mostly manager Peter Grant although Jimmy was the one who went out to find members) Led Zeppelin, is Jimmy Page’s masterpiece, his opus magnum, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he thought of his band to be like one of his children, perhaps his favorite. Understandably, he was devastated when the band broke up after drummer John Bonham’s death from alcohol poisoning, and everybody knows he wants the band to be back together in some shape or form. This of course sparked a feud with singer Robert Plant, who also understandably was doing well in his solo career and wanted to move on. Depending on who you talk to, it’s never really been officially resolved despite the 2007 concert and Robert’s final declaration that he will never do anything Led Zeppelin related ever again, Jimmy has focused on other matters such as remixing LZ albums and releasing concert dvds. In addition to that, there are several other matters worth pointing out. In the past, and even to this day, it was extremely difficult to get ahold of LZ songs to use in tv and movie soundtracks because Jimmy, unofficially “in charge” of LZ music distribution is overprotective of how his music is used (probably stemming from LZ’s hatred of concert bootleggers but that’s a different story). We also have a long history of lawsuits that accuse LZ of plagiarism and ripoffs stemming from the 70s, that have taken a hit to LZ’s musical reputation. Looking at Jimmy’s defensive stance over the band’s music and public image, we segway to our next question.

Can a Led Zeppelin movie give an authentic and enjoyable experience for audiences?

We know from the nearly ten year saga to create a Queen movie that there was a lot of contention between the remaining band members and directors over portrayal of the members’ personal lives within Queen, and Queen pushing for a more family friendly image. In the end, the movie earned a PG 13 rating, an acceptable negotiation for both parties, and a good rating to draw in an audience. Assuming that using this model will bring in the most amount of money and recognition for future biopic movies, we shall apply it to the band Led Zeppelin.

A PG 13 rated Led Zeppelin movie would be impossible to do. No offense to Queen (they’re my second favorite band behind Zep so I’m allowed to say this) but they are tame compared to the antics that Led Zeppelin got up to back in their heyday. We’re talking about what you imagine when you think of the rock n roll lifestyle. Loud music, jet setting, partying all night, sex, drugs, trashing hotel rooms, groupies, more drugs, more sex, getting trashed at the club, pump it up baby a whole hecka lotta YOW times10! Led Zeppelin were a bunch of party animal freaks (Bassist John Paul Jones is debatable but there was New Orleans)and well you could attempt to focus directly on the music, but a lot of the music in the later years ties into that crazy rock n roll lifestyle (Sick Again from Physical Graffiti and For Your Life from Presence) and Jimmy Page’s descent into heroin addiction and John Bonham’s gradual and tragic deterioration from years of alcohol abuse had a profound affect on how the band members got along during the In Through The Outdoor sessions and is the reason why it still has a very mixed reception and is ranked low on favorite LZ albums.

A rated R movie could work, you may say. I mean look at the Doors movie. Yeah but even though The Doors got trippy and Jim Morrison was a character man, a Led Zeppelin rated R movie would be a very hard rated R. Again, this goes back to all the tour commotion, where especially in the early years, a lot of sordid stuff happened. And I know you’re thinking, I can live watching a couple of sex scenes. Oh sweet summer child who has not gone through the threshold of transitioning from a Led Zeppelin fan who strictly listens to their music to searching out their history, inspiration, stories from the countless biographies out there, we are talking about some fucked up stuff that I am not gonna even talk about in this post for fear of invoking the wrath of the tumblr flag gods, and that the more sensitive leaning people might consider to be NC17 stuff. And there is a difference between detailing this information in a niche book that only diehard fans will pick up, and putting it in a movie intended for everybody and no shit sherlock you will get controversy.

And you may ask, who are the subjects of such controversial tales? Basically everybody, although as we said JPJ falls into bassists are usually boring category, Robert Plant had a pretty good amount of moments because no shit he was hot back then and who wouldn’t go wild over him. And our main offenders of depravity and strife? John Bonham, Jimmy Page, and special mention to tour manager (and subject of much controversy within the Led Zeppelin fandom itself) Richard Cole. And if based on director’s tendencies to capture the authentic even if it involves shock content, the depictions of these three men will garner a lot of attention. While John Bonham is dead and cannot speak for himself, the other two can. Based on Richard Cole’s tell all contributions to the classic 1980s publication that detailed LZ’s rise and fall, Hammer of The Gods, he’ll probably just pop up out of the woodworks and bask in the next 15 minutes of fame. But Jimmy? James Patrick I will do anything to keep Led Zeppelin’s reputation in a good light Page? Oh he’ll have a field day alright. And it’s not just bracing ourselves for the inevitable telling directors what they can and cannot put in, it’s also opening the huge, sticky, labeled with a giant TRIGGER WARNING can of worms what exactly Jimmy was doing that would be so controversial both then and now. Now, I know that everyone in the Led Zeppelin fandom knows what I’m about to say, probably some in the classic rock fandom in general who knows things here and there, too, but this is for everybody who doesn’t know. Jimmy Page in the 1970s dated teenage girls. And to clarify, I’m not talking about that gray line that people debate about of 18 technically signaling adult years, yet is still a vulnerable age, I’m talking about girls, minors, who were14-16 when he was nearly or in his 30s. And the relationship that is the most documented (Lori Maddox for the LZ fans reading) oh my god, it is just messed up. Like basically stalked and kidnapped her so they could meet, and in the relationship locked her up in hotel rooms while he was in concerts messed up. You might say it was the 70s, they just turned a blind eye well honey it’s 2019, and a topic as dicey as a grown ass man going after children is not gonna be ignored in this day and age where people are starting to pay more attention to issues like these. I know that if a director decides to devote a segment of that movie to that part of Jimmy’s past (and present if you think about him going out with 20 something year old women when he’s in his 70s) it will basically destroy his own reputation. Which is very, very much intertwined with Led Zeppelin’s. So if he takes a hit, LZ does too, and he cannot afford to let that happen. And if this means having to decline an offer for a biopic in order to preserve a sliver of integrity that is just dangling by a thread as old news becomes common knowledge, so be it.

Oh yeah the christians will probably get wound up again about LZ being satanic or some shit due to Alestier Crowley and the whole playing Stairway to Heaven backwards thing but hey they’re irrelevant to this discussion

So the TLDR: We’re never getting a Led Zeppelin movie. Reputation is everything to Jimmy Page and a movie that goes into some hardcore detail about band “shenanigans” will serve us a whopping discourse for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, that will get the movie, and the band slammed hard.

#led zeppelin #movie #classic rock #classic rock fandom #led zeppelin fandom #an essay a discourse

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