#and I want to look a little whimsical for the festival today

[isthisjackie]

Why are space buns the hardest hair style for me to do 😭😭 I just gave up with mine like they aren’t even and I’m just tired of trying to fix them so I’m just leaving them like fuck it 😭😭

#personal #it’s gonna be way too hot today to do anything else like hair down #and I want to look a little whimsical for the festival today

[jerzwriter]

Accidental Friendship

Book:                   Wake the Dead

Pairing:                Eli Sipes, Troy Hassan (friendship)

Rating:                 Teen

Category:            Fluff w/ a little angst

Summary:           A rare day of fun at an abandoned carnival leads to several discoveries.  

Words:                 857

A/N:                     Participating in @choicesficwriterscreations Let’s Hear it for the Boys event. Also participating in @choicesmonthlychallenge - Falltober - Festival

Once again, I’m tagging my Perma list – but if you don’t want to be on future Wake the Dead fics, let me know, and I’ll put you on OH only.  Thank you!

CHARACTERS BELONG TO PIXELBERRY STUDIOS

Today was a rare treat.   While the world and its problems never fully disappeared, but for once, they melted into the background and gave the friends a little reprieve. But dusk was beginning to fall, and like all good things, everyone knew this must come to an end. Still, Angel wanted to hold on just a little bit longer. After hearing about the cotton candy Shannon and Zoe had shared, she needed to have some for herself. When would she have the chance again? So, as the ladies headed back for one last hurrah, Eli and Troy waited near the exit.

The worn wooden bench creaked as Eli sat. A foreign whimsical look on his face. The day had been especially poignant for him as childhood memories brought the past into the present, and just two carnival rides with Zoe at his side made the possibilities for his future vividly clear. Comfort, sadness, elation, fear… each emotion coursed through his veins, but for now, he was living in the moment... allowing himself to bask in the wonder of it all.

But his time alone with his thoughts was short-lived with Troy nearby. The bench crackled a little more when he plopped down, but not enough to give either man any pause. Troy folded his arms behind his head and gazed at the setting sun.

“Today was some day,” he stated, his voice even more euphoric than usual.

“It sure was,” Eli agreed. “I know I thanked you before, but really… giving me that roller coaster experience… it meant more than you know.”

“Ah, it was nothing,” Troy smiled.

“No,” Eli insisted, “it was something. My brother and I...” he paused, voice cracking with emotion. “We dreamed about the summer when we’d both finally be tall enough to ride it. I even promised that I’d wait until he was tall enough, too. I wouldn't go on it without him….”

Eli bit his cheek and stared into the distance, trying to quell the storm stirring inside. He took a deep breath as the silence hung. Troy knew Eli had more to say, and waited patiently for him to continue. 

“Who would have thought…. It was such a simple wish… who would have thought….”

“Yeah,” Troy responded thoughtfully, “In the old world, they lived with a certain ignorant bliss that we don’t get to have, but the flip side is people took so much for granted. Now, we all know that we can’t put things off because tomorrow is never promised.”

He turned to Eli with a satisfied grin. “That’s why I was getting you in that cart today, one way or another. I’m still floored that you can actually smile!”

Eli chuckled softly and pat Troy on the back. “Thanks again, man. I’ll never forget that you did that for me.”

“Hey,” Troy replied. “Don't mention it… that’s what friends do.”

Eli stalled at his words. Most of his life had been spent alone, his family his sole companions. Once they were gone, he could count the number of people he saw on one hand. Now, here he was, part of this rag-tag group he never expected to find. They came together accidentally, created a bond out of necessity, but it was just now dawning on him…

“Friends…” he said, more a question than a statement.

“Yeah,” Troy replied without hesitation, "I know you do the whole lone wolf thing quite well, but like it or not… you have friends now.”

He watched as Eli gave into the little smile forming on his lips and laughed. “I hope you aren’t disappointed!"

Just then, the sound of footsteps walking on the graveled path turned their heads. Shannon and Angel were engaged in a lively conversation as they shared their sugary treat. Ever vigilant, Zoe walked beside them, peering around their surroundings to ensure they were safe. As her eyes swept over the area, they locked onto Eli’s briefly, and her expression softened. Even under the darkening sky, he could see the soft rose color rising on her cheeks.

“No,” Eli responded. “I’m not disappointed at all.”

Troy followed Eli’s line of sight, looking back and forth between his old friend and his new, and his eyes widening as realization began to hit.

“Not disappointed, eh?” He chuckled. “Are we still talking about me, though? I have to wonder, are we still talking about me?”

Eli turned with a stern glare.

“Yeah, I'm talking about you,” Eli smiled. “You,” his eyes shifted back to Zoe, “and everyone else. Now, don’t you dare repeat this to anyone. But it’s nice to have friends.”

Troy looked between his friends once again, then patted Eli on the back as he rose to his feet. “Don’t worry, pal. Your secret is safe with me….”

“Hey guys, did you miss us?” Zoe asked.

Before either answered, Troy leaned over and whispered in Eli’s ear. “They’re safe with me… all of them.”

"There's nothing else to keep," Eli grumbled.

"Keep telling yourself that, buddy," Troy laughed. "Keep telling yourself that."

Perma All: @a-crepusculo @aishwarya26 @animesuck3r @annfg8 @annoyingmillenialnewbie @bex-la-get @binny1985 @bluebelle08 @bluerosesbloom @cariantha @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @danijimenezv @different4strawberry @differenttyphoonwerewolf @doriopenheart @fayeswiftie @forallthatitsworth @genevievemd @inlocusmads @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lilypills @lucy-268 @mainstreetreader @mysticalgalaxysstuff @ofmischiefandmedicine @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @peonierose @peonyblossom @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @schnitzelbutterfingers @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @toadfrog26 @trappedinfanfiction @uneravine @youlookappropriate @zahrachoices @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks

@icecoffee90

#choices fanfic #playchoices #wake the dead #eli sipes #troy hassan #playchoices fanfic #choices fic writers creations #choices monthly challenge #cfwc for the boys #cfwc fics of the week

[joz-yyh]

Acta Est Fabula - Ch. 3

SUMMARY: Crimson Court AU. The boys launch their attack on the Baron, but no celebration is complete without a kiss. No Beta. Read at your own risk.

PAIRING: Bounty Hunter x Flagellant

RATING: M (just to be safe because it will get spicy later)

WORD COUNT: 2,405  

READ ON Ao3: -> HERE!!

A/N: Check out the art I drew for this chapter -> Here 🎉 😚 🎉 (Man, is it hard for me to go in chronological order, but we're trying. Nevermind that I already outlined the smut and just want to dive straight into that. OTL)

——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Engorged ruby eggs mark this territory, as do the perpetual swarms of flies, their presence humming about dirty meal trays and empty bottles of vintage crates.

As the flagellant steps past the threshold of overgrown brush, he can hear the clink of glasses, the lull of small talk and laughter, a festive atmosphere made whole by the scores of renaissance melodies.

Engorged ruby eggs mark this territory, as do the perpetual swarms of flies, their presence humming about dirty meal trays and empty bottles of vintage crates.

As the flagellant steps past the threshold of overgrown brush, he can hear the clink of glasses, the lull of small talk and laughter, a festive atmosphere made whole by the scores of renaissance melodies.

The whimsical musical stylings end on a jarring score, the cadence of one waterlogged loafer touching down on the tiled floor, the other guests keeping their distance, repelled by his scraggy appearance. Painted heads turn, the liveliness now a flatline of silence, gasping in contempt of their unwelcome guest.

“Oh my,” one of the courtesans exclaims, “Look at what the croc dragged in!”

“Where have you been hiding these days, darling,” the baron's mistress chimes in, waving a fan against her powdered nose.

Another of her debutante floozies quickly finishes the thought, “In the dirt by the look of it!”

A reel of laughter erupts from around the room, the crowd all too eager to partake in his humiliation.

“Thought you knew better than to come here again,” the baron snubs, much more vitriolic in his participation, “must you punish us with your miserable existence?”

The branded vagabond was used to being patronized and despite their fervent attempts to oust him, the flagellant's confidence does not waver, nor does his smirk.

"I am not here for favor or for mercy,” Damian speaks, putting an end to their humor, if only momentarily. “I come bearing a gift, an opportunity to repent. Pledge yourself to the Light, let it save what remains of your souls."

The aristocrats can do nothing but laugh at his outrageous request, the wandering zealot a broken record, this religious stunt of his not an uncommon sight.

"Baron,” his finely dressed mistress remarks, a polished hand tucking behind his collar, “did you order a fool and forget to tell us?"

“Ha! Yes, a traveling clown indeed,” the shifty man concurs, a laugh slipping past his tall incisors, “run along now lad, take your traveling circus elsewhere.”

“I pray you've made peace with death,” Damian portends, a grim finality, “you will meet her today.”

An encore of boisterous laughter is made, paid at his expense.

“Ha! What a riot!”

“Can you believe it? The resident lunatic is trying to pick a fight!”

“How many times can one man lose their mind!”

Wine swirls about the baron’s glass, incited by the guffaws. “Little old you, taking on all of us? We’d suck you dry before you could even come close.”

“Maybe you'd be right,” the flagellant says, fangs framing his smile, “if I was alone.”

“Oh? Pray tell, where is this mystery date of yours,” hucks the smarmy liege, seeing none beside him, awaiting their grand entrance, “Are they invisible or just imaginary?”

“My dear Baron,” Damian bows, perfectly serene in his manners, “I believe you've already met.”

“What are you–,”

The esteemed aristocrat is still ignorant, hardly aware of what’s happened to him, a fine line of red stretching across his face, bisected blood swimming in his vision before it slides off, a clean cut of gore, his eyes looking upon his own decapitated corpse.

The man's dismembered head rolls about the regal bows and buckles of pointed shoes, the rest of his bulbous body twitching before joining its missing piece, a limp mass of wet squelch.

There would be no egg sacks for the wealthy lord to cower in, no third act, just the cold curtain of his final death.

The female courtesans scream for the tragic passing of their lord, their gentleman counterparts offering them comfort, passing around their own audible intakes of shock.

The esquires waste no time shedding their prim and proper visage, looking for the unseen threat, clamoring together in a pack with pompadours and pistols abound.

“Where are you?!”

“Show yourself, pathetic quim!

“Unsavory cur!”

“I am right here, you degenerate suckheads,” Tardif taunts, standing up from his crouch, liquid crimson dripping from his kusarigama.

“Hunter,” the insects hiss in unison, “That traitorous bastard brought a hunter!”

“Templar scum!”

“Dog of the order!”

“Ye spineless toads gunna keep tellin’ me how pretty I am,” Tardif spits, annoyed more than anything, “or ye gunna shut up and fight?”

The insects step up to the challenge, firing their shots, but the hunter merely deflects each one, making no effort to retaliate, standing there in goading proposition.

“The hunter is as mad as he is!”

“Yes, a perfect pair, crazy and crazier.”

“Kill them both!”

Too busy hurling insults, the three bloodsuckers fail to notice the maw of teeth stampeding across the floor, Sebastian scooping each insect into its mouth, one piled into the other before champing down, a spike trap of impalement.

“Oh, too bad,” Tardif whinges, listening to their posh screams, a kabob of entitled brats severed with gushes of carnage, “anyone else?”

He surveys what remains of the guests, a flurry of hoop skirts and tailcoats running for dear life while the croc picks them off, tossing them into the swamp, a buffet for his other reptilian brethren to partake.

“Can't let you have all the fun, Sebastian,” Tardif cries, diving right in with the crowd, hacking through whoever comes close, guarding the croc’s back.

The creature growls, polishing off what fleeing bloodsuckers it can, the two a dynamic duo of havoc and despair.

“Shouldn't you be running, mademoiselle,” Damian taunts, hands behind his back as confronts the baron's mistress, one of the few guests that remain alive.

“Little worm,” the woman hisses, betwixt grief and hatred as she huddles around her dearly departed, “do you know what you've done?! The court will hear of this, mark my words. You're as good as dead.”

“Yes, your ladyship, but in the meantime I hope to bring an unfortunate demise unto you.”

She snarls at the estranged vampire's uncouth behavior, his insufferably cavalier expression, rising up to meet him, “Always knew you were a bit off. The Baroness was too kind letting you live.”

“I never did like you either, lady Beatrice,” the flagellant snips, the two staring each other down, “your pies always tasted as rancid as your heart.”

Her rouge-round cheeks fume, growling in offense, sending a slew of half-pint servants after him in swift riposte. “Kill him! Avenge the baron!”

The blonde vampire barely lifts a hand, his claws slashing the castellans to pieces as if they were delicate lace petticoats, the floor filled with dregs of hairy legs and chops of sirloin.

Beatrice reels in alarm, her entourage of minions hacked to mince so easily, “There’s something different about you! What is it?! Tell me!”

“I simply did what you all do so well,” Damian says, eyes swimming in a sea of black, “I drank my fill of blood.”

A sanguine transformation consumes him, an evolution of four long wings that burst from his back, claws growing lengthy, sharp, nose and mandibles to match their lethal intent.

With a speed Beatrice doesn't expect, he flies forward, tearing into her neck, ripping cursed viscera from stringy tethers of flesh.

He can barely stand the taste, spits the foul tasting thing out, tossing her severed head in the direction of the baron's corpse, the two lovers reunited in a fitting grave.

Tardif catches the tail end of the battle between the two antagonistic vampires, watches on as the flagellant tears through the competition with such violent fury that it awakens something within him. He’s never known his side of Damian, but he wants to, his brutality so different than his usual carefree demeanor, awe causing him to marvel at the scene a bit too long.

“Ye still alive over there,” the hunter asks from the other side of the floor, humor in his voice as he regards the croc.

Sebastian growls, his jaws dripping with his most recent kill, the emerald beast’s stomach much too full.

“Think we got 'em all. How 'bout it Pierre? We miss anyone?”

The creature scans around the venue, the flickering blue of dying heat signatures conveying no more signs of unlife.

“Good,” Tardif says, sheathing his weapon, “Sebastian, keep an eye out. Yer on guard duty.”

Coast clear, he stalks toward Damian, stepping over a macabre path of littered corpses until he reaches his partner's side.

The vampire seems to be stuck in trance, caught in disbelief of what they’ve done, a potent cocktail of adrenaline and bloodlust eating away at his dwindling humanity.

Tardif wouldn’t describe himself as the soft, tender type, but he finds he wants to be now, for him.

“Hey,” the brute calls, gripping the grotesque angles of Damian’s face, “ye can relax. It's over now.”

The vampire finally moves, clings to the arms that clings to him, squeezing at it tightly, unable to decide if he wants to keep the human near or drive him away.

“You musn’t be so close to me,” Damian warns, his carnal urges unpredictable, “not now, not like this.”

“Teh, ye look pretty harmless to me,” the brash barbarian smirks, falling under his own trance.

Gloves smear away the flecks of red left upon a pale visage, pushing back stray blonde curls from the shining abyss of his eyes.

Maybe they were both crazy for doing this, the heap of dead bloodsuckers had accused them as much, but who knew what fate would come for them next, if they would still be standing together by the end.

Only one thing is certain in Tardif’s mind and regardless of the blood, the fangs, the danger, he is overcome, having never seen something so morbidly beautiful in all his life.

It comes as a shock, especially after the rush of battle to feel the press of something soft against his cheek, just above the protrusion of his mandibles. It’s a strange sort of feeling, remembering affection like this, having suffered so long without it, but once he realizes what the huntsman is doing, what it means, Damian fends him off.

The flagellant's voice is warbled by his metamorphosis, more taken aback by the clash of their opposing species than the action itself. “How … how could you do something that … that stupid?”

Tardif seems equally at a loss, having no answer to give, only sensation, fire burning from within.

"I am not even a man anymore,” the vampire continues, trying to make sense of the other’s recklessness, “Do you not despise me?"

"I uh … sorry," Tardif mumbles, unable to supply anything else, caught in a loop, reliving their first kiss.

"You could have been turned," the flagellant chastises, anger unable to convey properly upon his compound eyes, "Then what would you have done?"

"Not every bite can inflict the curse," Tardif replies, the ingrained knowledge cutting through the haze, "and we stick to the plan. We slay them all. Same as before."

"You're not afraid of inheriting the curse," Damian asks, probing and confounded by this stubborn enigma of a man.

"I fear nothing," Tardif says, the potent note of overconfidence obvious even to his own ears.

"You'll be hunted just like me," the flagellant continues, mourning the thought, "Ostracized. Persecuted. You won't be able to return home again. Doesn’t that bother you?"

"I like a challenge,” Tardif smirks, shrugging as he contemplates the rest, “Not much of a life. Was picked up by the order when I was a kid, but I never trusted them or anything they said. Always wanted to go off on my own. What better time than now?”

"The thing I want to retrieve most, you are so willing to give it up," the vampire gasps, grabbing at his companion’s cowl.

It’s impulsive, risky, Damian hardly having any lips left to kiss, but it doesn’t stop him from trying.

Despite their physical differences, it's heated, heavy, passionate, the vampire’s long tongue coming to lick against sweet decadence, connecting corrupted canines with frail human lips.

The hybrid can feel himself slipping, unsure of how long he can subdue the thirst, tempted by the urge to bite down, drink into him.

"How do ye feel," Tardif asks, panting, flushed with the sticky heat of dried blood upon his brow.

"Vile," Damian spits, though his words beseech his actions, leaning back in for more, "wretched."

The hunter surrenders to his mouth, but the vampire cannot risk it, must end this before he does something he regrets.

"No more,” he commands, shoving the brainless idiot away, heaving with the strain it took, “You must leave. I will find you again before the next party."

"That may not be for some time,” the huntsman reasons, completely logical in his response despite what boundaries they've crossed, “We're stronger together. It'll be easier for them to pick us off if we split up."

"And what happens if I decide to pick you off," Damian presses.

"Let's say that ye do,” Tardif muses, “Ye forget, I am trained to kill yer kind. If ye do somethin’ I don't want ye to do, ye'll know it."

"Please, do not stay here,” the vampire begs, feeling his body shudder, transforming into something more grossly inhuman, “I do not know if I can resist it any longer.”

"Ye can. I know ye.”

Damian laughs cynically, "Your sudden faith in me is misplaced."

The vampire makes an injured noise, staggered and garbling as his insides begin to change, insect legs sprouting from his abdomen, a long rudder of a thorax pushing out from his backside.

“Wot can we do to stop it? Slow it down?”

"You can run," Damian says, his morbid humor shining through these dire circumstances.

"Never been very good at that,” Tardif remarks, cocky and unbudging.

"Enough” the nobleman shouts, the most desperate he’s ever been, “Go! Please … ”

Tardif pulls a silver band out from under his tunic, placing the whistle inside the semblance of a human hand, "Take this. Use it to call me. I will come."

"Fool,” Damian laughs, the sound cryptic, supernatural, barely distinguishable, “I will always have need of your blood."

"Just make sure I recognize ye when I do.”

With his parting gift, the hunter finally departs, Sebastian returning to his master's side, swaddling him within its large bulk. Damian is all too grateful for his friend and the leathery tail that consoles him, suffering through the excruciating pain of molting, an experience he hasn’t endured in years.

#my writing #darkest dungeon #crimson court #au #dd bounty hunter #dd flagellant #bounty hunter #flagellant #dd #darkest dungeon flagellant #darkest dungeon bounty hunter #bhf #bhxf #tarmian #flaghunter #dd tardif #dd damian

[scalpelandrose]

Childhood Memories: A New Friend for the Holidays

🌹: Takes place 14-15 years ago during the Christmas season, when (8 y/o) Michelle’s adoptive father took her to get her first toy: Vladislav the Bat. The plush is an important piece of a few good childhood memories she had & she eventually passes it down to her children, often bringing it to life in the dream realm for them to play with.

[on the charming cobblestone streets of Vestaria, lined by gaslit lamps adorned with festive wreaths, an investigator and his ward are window-shopping. They notice an eclectic toy emporium and stop outside of it.]

Vincent: If you see something you like, feel free to run up to it or tug me along, ok?

Michelle (8 y/o): ….

Vincent: Is something the matter?

Michelle: ….

Vincent: (kneels down to her height and pats her head) Listen little one, I want you to know that I won’t punish you for expressing your feelings. I know that you’ve been poring over the children’s catalogue these past few months and I’ve got the beris to get you a toy. Regardless what you’ve been told, you have every right to feel emotions and enjoy as much of your childhood as you can.

Michelle: (quietly whispers)…Is it really ok for me to have something, though?

Vincent: (his heart feels like it dropped into his stomach out of pity, but his tone remains gentle and mellow) Of course. It’s only appropriate for you to have something special for Christmas. Well, traditionally, I’d surprise you as your guardian, but I thought your first gift should be something you chose—something that you can call your own.

Michelle: (ponders over the idea & the obvious thought Vincent put in before taking her on this outing) That’s very nice of you to let me decide for myself.

Vincent: Heh, that’s just basic decency, little one. If someone ever tries to make you feel like you don’t have a choice, bop them in the gut. (he mimics a right hook & tries to contain himself from gushing from seeing her stare at him intently with a comical sparkle beside her unbothered eyes) If you want to thank me, you can make me some gardenia blossom tea when we get home. But come, Vestaria has the best toymakers in the North Blue and I know you’ll find something. You always had a knack for finding things, after all.

[they enter the toy emporium. The shopkeeper greets them and explains the shop layout and their wares, before letting the two explore.]

Michelle: (after browsing, she notices something in a last chance bin sitting in the back of the shop. She lets go of Vincent’s hand and walks towards it. A little black bat plush with a light blue tummy and inner ears stares back at her good-naturedly. A bit of stuffing peeks out of it’s chest with it’s little toy heart hanging out pitifully. Plus, the thread holding one of its wings seems to be fraying, but for some reason, it’s whimsical smile despite being in its’ current state piqued her fancy. It was like it was asking for someone to give it a chance at friendship and she felt an odd desire to know what it would say to her if she brought it into her Dreamscape.)

Vincent: (notices how she carefully takes the bat out of the bin and tenderly strokes it’s head. When she comes back to him, he doesn’t question why she chose it. If it makes her happy, he was fine with that) Found what you were looking for?

Michelle: Mmhm.

[they head to the clerk station in the front]

Shopkeeper: Are you sure you want that one? It’s a little torn at the chest. We were actually thinking of sending it…(euphemizing & looks to Vincent) to the land of broken toys later today.

Michelle: (shyly) No thank you. He’s perfect. (looks at shopkeeper with a little shimmer in her round brown eyes with the bat plush already dearly held to her chest) I can learn how to stitch Vladislav up and then he can join Vincent and me for tea.

Vincent: Precisely so. Nothing like a little sewing or embroidery lesson can’t fix. If I am right…I deduce Vladislav would enjoy saguaro blossom and berry tea. (finds it cute that she already decided on a name for the bat based on a vampire book she read. He makes note to find his grandmother’s sewing kit he has somewhere in his office.)

Michelle: (giggles a bit and nods)

Vincent: Right. That smile there tells me we’re all set then! (he comically slides the shopkeeper the money, as if doing a discreetly serious spy trade-off.) Keep the change.

[the shopkeeper thanks them & found that within the payment, there was a note and advance deposit to reserve a certain rare music box from their shop under Vincent’s name. They wonder at the eccentricities of the local investigator and the child that accompanies him, but they shake their head to pry no further. It’s going to be Christmas, after all.]

Michelle: (crossing the street with Vincent, while still holding her new bat plush protectively) Do you think it’ll help if Erebus was with him during his heart and wing treatment?

Vincent: (smiles at her) I don’t see why not. I’m sure they’ll both find a lot in common being darkly winged creatures that are adored by you.

—————

🌹Tagging: @jazminetoad

#one piece oc #vincent h dupin #michelle #childhood stories #holiday scenario #christmas scenario #scenario snippet #father and daughter diaries #a peek into michelle’s childhood #vladislav the bat #sight mention of erebus #dialogue writing #my writing #scalpelandrose

[ear-worthy]

"Arielle & Ned's Daily Tips That May Or May Not Help You" Debuts Today

This new podcast shows off podcasting at its most flexible, fun, and informative.

Now, we have a new podcast that is only two minutes in length, offering life hacks and lessons of high or no value, and is fun to listen to. 

 So, prepare to embark on a journey of everyday wisdom as Arielle Nissenblatt and Ned Donovan introduce their podcast and YouTube show, "Arielle and Ned's Daily Tips That May Or May Not Help You." The show is slated to launch today --December 4th, 2023 -- and will air five episodes every week. For those of you not in AP math, that's 10 minutes of fun and tips that can make your life better, or, if not that, at least more enjoyable. Hosted by the dynamic duo of Arielle Nissenblatt and Ned Donovan, the show promises to be an entertaining and informative daily escape, covering an eclectic range of tips that touch on various aspects of life. From personal hygiene and car maintenance to uncovering the best music gems and mastering the art of waking up early, Arielle and Ned will explore it all. Listeners and viewers can expect a lighthearted and engaging approach to daily tips, delivered with a unique flair. The hosts are passionate about making the show interactive and are open to suggestions from their audience for new and exciting tips to feature on the show. "We wanted to create a show that feels like a daily dose of inspiration and entertainment. Life is full of challenges, big and small, and we believe that sharing practical tips – no matter how quirky or unexpected – can make a positive impact on our listeners' and viewers’ lives," says Arielle Nissenblatt, co-host of the show. Arielle Nissenblatt is the founder of EarBuds Podcast Collective, a podcast recommendation newsletter. She is on the community team at Descript, an AI-powered video and audio editing software service. She hosts two other podcasts, Trailer Park: The Podcast Trailer Podcast and Feedback with EarBuds. Basically, she wants to help you find your next favorite podcast.

Arielle Nissenblatt is such a podcast innovator, industry cheerleader, and promoter of podcasting, she could be called the Princess Of Podcasts, The Duchess Of Downloads, The Viscountess of Video, and even The Sultana of Streaming. You get the idea. Ned Donovan, the other half of this duo, adds, "Arielle and I are people who love trying new things and optimizing our lives. We’re taking that passion and bringing it to audiences in a quick, digestible, fun format to add a little spice to your day." Ned Donovan is an actor and multi-hyphenate creator who calls NYC home. As an actor, Ned has performed on stages across America, and been featured in film projects seen on NBC, Netflix, SyFy, and more. Ned is a cast member on, and executive producer for, Encounter Party which started as a D&D podcast and has since grown into a television show currently airing. Ned is the founder of the first film festival experience for Fiction Podcasts and Actual Play content at the New Jersey Web Festival. I'm so jealous of Ned. He's so talented. He's multi-hyphenate (I had to look that up), and I'm not even multilingual.

"Arielle and Ned's Daily Tips That May Or May Not Help You" invites listeners and viewers to join the hosts on this exciting journey of discovery. From the practical to the whimsical, Arielle and Ned will share insights and hacks to navigate the complexities of daily life with a smile.

The show will be available on major podcast platforms and YouTube, ensuring accessibility for audiences across different platforms. The show is recorded and edited entirely in SquadCast and Descript.

The show is produced by Play+1, the team behind the D&D TV series, Encounter Party.

The hosts will be experimenting widely with video formatting and production techniques, as a way of exploring YouTube’s new podcast integration capabilities.

Check out Arielle and Ned's Daily Tips That May Or May Not Help You. Every morning before school or work, you can get a daily dose of tips, laughter, and unexpected discoveries. All in two minutes. Hey, your toaster takes longer than that to brown your 100% sprouted rye bread.

Watch the trailer here.

#podcast #podcasting #life lessons #humor

[bigbooksbygeorge]

Drawing Dreams: The Aspiring Illustrator's Guide to Children's Books

Hey there, aspiring children's book illustrator. Ever been captivated by the whimsical worlds that only exist between the pages of children's books? From talking animals and far-off galaxies to lessons about sharing and friendship, illustrating children's books is no less than an enchanting journey. 

If you've ever flipped through preschool big books and thought, "Hey, I want to create that magic," then you've clicked on the right blog post. Today, we're diving into the dreamy realm of illustrating books for little munchkins. Let’s jump right in, shall we?

Start Building Your Portfolio: The Golden Ticket

If you ever wanted a Willy Wonka-esque golden ticket into the world of children's book illustrating, your portfolio is it. Seriously, your portfolio is like your artist's resume. Think of it as a magical garden where each illustration is a blooming flower showing off your skills and style.

Your portfolio should be a living, breathing entity. That means keep updating it! Finished a new piece? Awesome, add it in. Don’t forget to take out older work that doesn't showcase your best self. Keeping your portfolio fresh and current is key.

Are you stuck for inspiration? Here's a fun idea: check out those classic preschool big books and observe how the pros do it. From color palettes to character designs, there's a ton you can learn. 

Make a list of what you love and start experimenting. You can even re-imagine classic tales with your artistic flair. What would Cinderella look like in a futuristic world? How about setting Jack and the Beanstalk in the desert? The sky's the limit, so let your imagination soar.

Networking: Not Just Schmoozing, But a Magic Spell

I get it, the word "networking" can sometimes sound as exciting as watching paint dry. But trust me, in this industry, it’s the magic spell you didn’t know you needed. Ever heard the saying, "It's not what you know, it's who you know?" There's a bit of truth there.

Start by attending industry-specific events. Book fairs, art exhibitions, and literary festivals are teeming with like-minded folks. Strike up a conversation with people whose work you admire. Ask them how they got started or if they have any advice for an up-and-comer like you. You'll be amazed at what a simple conversation can lead to.

But wait, we're in the digital age, aren’t we? Yes, indeed. Social media platforms can be a goldmine for networking. 

Connect with authors, publishers, and fellow illustrators on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Share your work, comment on theirs, and never underestimate the power of a well-timed direct message (DM). Just one message could open up opportunities you’d never dreamt of. And hey, who knows, you might just find your next project sliding into your DMs.

Say Yes to Small Projects First: Baby Steps to Stardom

No one goes from doodling in a sketchbook to illustrating a bestseller overnight. It’s like learning to walk: you start with baby steps. That’s why saying yes to small projects when you're starting can be an incredibly smart move.

Don’t overlook the local scene. Community projects, school events, or small businesses often need artwork for flyers, posters, or even their social media posts. These might not be glamorous jobs, but they give you real-world experience. Plus, you can always add these projects to that ever-important portfolio.

The beauty of smaller projects is that they're often less stressful and have shorter deadlines. That gives you a fantastic opportunity to play around with styles, techniques, and themes. You can take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them, all while getting a taste of what working in the industry is actually like. 

Before you know it, these baby steps add up, and you'll find yourself ready to take that giant leap into the world of children’s book illustrating.

Learn the Business Side of Magic: Become the Wizard Behind the Curtain

Art and business: they're like peanut butter and jelly. Wait, really? I know it might sound odd, but they blend together more smoothly than you'd think. Embracing the business side can be just as exciting as creating those magical illustrations.

Firstly, understanding contracts isn't as terrifying as facing a dragon in a fairy tale. Imagine contracts as friendly guidelines, outlining your journey ahead with a client. By understanding the details, you ensure your work is protected and valued. So, the next time you're handed a contract, don't just skim it. Read every line, and if you're unsure, ask for advice or hire someone to help. Think of it as weaving a protective spell around your artwork.

Pricing can be tricky, like finding a needle in a haystack. But it's vital. Research what illustrators at your level are charging. Maybe even conduct a mini-survey.

Being too modest might make clients underestimate your worth. But go too high without the experience to back it up, and you might scare clients away. It’s all about finding that magic number that feels just right.

And hey, while we're talking business, ever thought of branding? Design a snazzy logo, get some business cards, and perhaps even create a website. Let the world see the full spectrum of your magical abilities.

Partner Up with Authors or Agents: Your Dynamic Duos & Terrific Trios

In every great story, there's a dynamic duo. Batman and Robin, Sherlock and Watson, or even peanut butter and jelly (yes, them again). So why walk the path alone when you can partner with a like-minded soul?

Teaming up with an author can be a game-changer. The two of you can brainstorm, critique each other's work, and together create a masterpiece that neither could have conjured alone. Think of it as a dance, where the rhythm of words meets the melody of illustrations.

But wait, there's more. Agents can be your fairy godparents in this story. While you focus on creating magic, they handle the not-so-magical parts like negotiations, contracts, and pitching. They've got connections, experience, and insights that can help elevate your career. And while yes, they do take a cut, think of it as an investment in your happily ever after.

Never Stop Learning: Be the Ever-Evolving Sorcerer of Your Tale

Magic never stands still. Neither should you. The realm of children's book illustration is vibrant, constantly changing, and evolving. Just when you think you've seen it all, a fresh trend or new technique pops up, ready to take the world by storm.

Subscribing to magazines, joining artist communities, or attending webinars can keep you updated. You never know when you might stumble upon a technique that becomes your new signature style.

Digital tools are like wands for the modern illustrator. Explore software like Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, or Corel Painter. Dive into the vast ocean of online courses, many of which are free, and discover new realms of creativity. For more details visit us at https://www.bbbg.org/.

Remember, in the grand tale of your illustrative journey, let every page, every chapter be about growth, evolution, and embracing the new. Magic is all around, but the true sorcery lies in never letting that spark of curiosity fade.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a magical map to guide you through your journey into the world of children’s book illustrating. From building a captivating portfolio and effective networking to understanding the nitty-gritty of the business, you've got your bases covered. 

Remember, every famous illustrator started with a single drawing. Your doodles today could be the highlight of children's books tomorrow. So grab your pens, brushes, or stylus and start creating your own enchanting worlds.

Read More:

English Language Learners and the Search for Knowledge

Reading Aloud to Create a Language Rich Environment

Teacher questioning and the emergent bilingual response connection

#preschool big books #Books #Education #Children #Creative #Preschool #School

[naturecoaster]

Dade City

In the rolling hills of eastern Pasco County, is a place where Southern hospitality can be felt: Dade City. Established in 1889, this Nature Coast gem is the seat of Pasco County. Its downtown restaurants, antique, and specialty shops are fun to visit – you may want to stay - and you will probably return. In recent years, Dade City has become synonymous with its largest event, the Kumquat Festival. Kumquats are a marvelous fruit that is both sweet and sour. The whole town joins in this annual celebration held the last weekend of January, and there are many reasons to visit this Nature Coast town any day of the week. The historic architecture. The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad building in Dade City was constructed in 1912. Image by Diane Bedard On September 14, 1885, the first regular train of the Florida Central and Peninsular Railway passed through Dade City. A historic brick rail station, originally built in 1912, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it houses a Heritage and Cultural Museum. The iconic Pasco County Courthouse was built in 1909, and a thriving downtown radiates from it. Designed by noted architect Edward Columbus Hosford in the Classical Revival style, it is also on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can view the common areas inside. The craftsmanship is impressive. The 1909 historic Pasco County courthouse is a Dade City icon and is registered on the the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can look inside. Image by Diane Bedard. Dade City Educational Institutions and Attractions Two excellent educational institutions, St. Leo University and Pasco-Hernando State College, are located in the Greater Dade City area, as is the Pioneer Florida Museum. On the outskirts is an exotic animal attraction, Giraffe Ranch, a Tree Hoppers adventure park, SnowCat Ridge, and the Joy-Lan Drive In Theater, where you can see first-run movies or attend a swap meet on weekends. The Joy Lan Drive In Theater offers first run movies weekly in an old-fashioned outdoor experience! Images by Diane Bedard But the real magic of Dade City, in my opinion, is the charm of its residents and proprietors. Dade City Shopping & Dining This is a place with local shopkeepers offering service and selection. Choose from several antique stores in the downtown area offering selections from primitive to ostentatious at all price points. It is really fun to go from shop to shop and see what is new in the “old stuff” while reliving memories from finding a toy, tool, or piece of art reminiscent of one's youth. Antique stores abound in Dade City. Image by Diane Bedard There are many specialty shops with a little of this and a little of that, including home décor and furniture, fashion and jewelry, whimsical gifts and cards, art and wine, an authentic Mexican market and taqueria, grocery items and more. Most of these shops offer modest prices and excellent service. Historic Buildings house fun shops with whimsical gifts., window displays and comfortable service. Image by Diane Bedard. Plan to stay for a meal because there are at least twenty restaurants to choose from! Sandwich shops and bakeries lead to fire-grilled gourmet and restaurants owned and run by top-chefs - all located within historic and sometimes eclectic buildings. A tea room decorates for each season located next to a quilt shop that offers classes. The variety of choices ensures that you will find what suits your palate and your wallet right in the courthouse square. Lunch on Limoges is famous for its servers wearing starched white uniforms and its open kitchen – but I always remember their Fairy Cake. If you get lucky, you might find Fairy Cake when you visit Dade City. Image courtesy of Robin Draper, AuthenticFlorida.com Dade City is a pet-friendly place and some restaurants offer outdoor seating and even a menu for your canine companion. A huge pet store offers everything from healthy treats to custom specialty items to visitors. The owners welcome your pets in the store and love to help solve diet and skin problems with their extensive line of products. There is a true community atmosphere here. Originally a farming community, you will find ranchers and farm workers traveling through or stopping in for a meal while visiting Dade City. Del Carmen is a special Mexican market and Taqueria. The interior mural is magnifico! Image by Diane Bedard Parks and Gardens Several parks are located in the downtown area, including Hibiscus Park where a farmers market is held the first Saturday of every month from September through May, and Price Park, which offers more traditional city recreation including playground equipment, racquetball and tennis courts, and picnic tables with barbecue grills. There is a strong Garden Club in Dade City, contributing to the City's beauty and charm with certified Butterfly Gardens. Additionally, the Dade City Garden Club has put on a Monarch Butterfly Festival and Dade City is a Monarch City USA. Enjoy the historic buildings as you meander around. Historic storefronts abound. It can be fun to discover what’s inside, such as exposed brick walls from the early 1900s. Sometimes one visits a place and not everyone wants to shop; Then what? Dade City has a nice cigar bar, sports bars, coffee shops, and a Brass Tap location featuring several locally crafted brews for refreshment, including seasonal kumquat flavored brews. Plan to attend the Kumquat Festival Dade City plays host each year to a large number of popular community-sponsored events, including the Kumquat Festival, Church Street Christmas, and the Country Christmas Stroll. A former Main Street organization, the Dade City Merchants Association puts on several events throughout the year, including Antique Faire & Markets in the spring and fall and a monthly Car Cruise In around the Courthouse Square. There is a strong Chamber of Commerce that provides visitor information and business promotion. A nice Hampton Inn is south of downtown if you decide to stay overnight because you simply want to see more than one day will accommodate. Stop in and visit Dade City. Plan to visit for an event and stay to enjoy the leisurely pace and friendly residents. You’ll be glad you did. Read the full article

[grailfinders]

Fate and Phantasms #197

Today on Fate and Phantasms we're getting festive with Attila the San(ta)! We do dip into Fighter just a bit, but that's because she's got a candy cane that can turn into pretty much everything, so you gotta be prepared. She's mostly a Swords Bard to channel Dumuzid's whimsical story of Santa Claus into the aforementioned Candy Cane of the War God, as well as a Divine Soul Sorcerer. Some things don't change.

Check out her build breakdown below the cut, or her character sheet over here!

Next up: Something something Super Mario 64, something something Dark Souls

Race and Background

I know last time we made Altera a human, but I think we're going to change up her race between versions for once. Less because she is a different race, more because time marches on. Altera isn't quite human, so this time around she'll be a Custom Lineage. That gives her +2 Dexterity, as well as Performance proficiency to really nail those ho ho hos. You might be santa, but you also get a gift for starting with this race; the Gift of the Chromatic Dragon, that is! Once per long rest, you can add 1d4 of elemental damage to a weapon's damage rolls for a minute as a bonus action. Look, one of the things the candy cane can turn into is a whip, and it needs all the help it can get being useful. Also, proficiency times per long rest you can use your reaction to gain resistance to one instance of elemental damage. Her Natural Body might be a bit weakened by her cold, but it's still there.

She's also still an Outlander, giving you proficiency with Athletics and Survival.

Ability Scores

First up; Charisma. You need it to give gifts to good little boys and girls, and your magic comes from your own soul, pure as fresh snow. Second is Dexterity, because you don't wear armor and you need it for your whip. It'll also make you better with that bow and arrow, the key of any archer! Your Strength is also pretty good, we won't be focusing on it, but you are still beating people to death with a cane, so it can't be low. Your Constitution is above average, if lower than usual thanks to your illness. That means your Intelligence is low, and your Wisdom is lowest. It's hard to think or smell when you've got a cold. Better luck next year.

Class Levels

Fighter 1: Yup, starting off with the one level dip. This gets you all the weapons you could want, and you get a little more HP, super important at level 1. Starting here gets you proficiency with Strength and Constitution saves, as well as the Intimidation skill -you're still the leader of the huns, after all- and Animal Handling. You also get a Second Wind as a bonus action once per short rest to drink a cup of hot cocoa and heal up. How nice. Finally, pick up a Fighting Style. Archery will be super helpful for an archer class servant, giving you +2 to weapon attack rolls made with a ranged weapon. What do you mean she throws sheep.

Bard 1: Now that we've got all we want from fighter, let's hop over to the star of the show, Bard! I'll put that one skill proficiency in Religion, you get your normal and seasonal powers from different gods, make sure you don't mix them up. Anyway, you get Bardic Inspiration, giving an ally a d6 as a bonus action Charisma Modifier times per long rest. They can then use this d6 to add the roll to any one attack, check, or save. For more fun, you get Spells that you cast using your Charisma. Grab Blade Ward so you can still be a pseudo-barbarian, and Dancing Lights to spread some christmas cheer. You also get Animal Friendship to herd sheep more easily, Disguise Self for the perfect Elder Claus stache, and Heroism to make your allies a bit bolder this holiday season. Also, it's more like Dumuzid is casting Speak with Humans, but you casting Speak With Animals is slightly more reasonable.

Bard 2: Second level bards are a Jack of All Trades, adding half their proficiency bonus to skills they aren't proficient with. This means you've got zero negative skills now- I guess it wasn't much of a cold after all. You also get a Song of Rest for more healing over short rests, but I'm not entirely sure how that works in character. You learn Color Spray this level. I'm not sure blinding people is mechanically something you do, but at least it looks the part.

Bard 3: Third level bards graduate from college, and the college of Swords is great when you need to use a whip and mean it. You get another Fighting Style, so pick up Dueling this time for a +2 bonus to one-handed weapon damage. You also get Blade Flourishes, spending a die of bardic inspiration once per attack action to deal extra damage, move an extra 10 feet, and add effects to an attack. A Defensive Flourish add the amount rolled froma bardic inspiration die to both the damage dealt and your AC for the rest of the round. A Slashing Flourish lets you do a little ribbon dance with your whip, dealing the amount rolled to a second creature as well. A Mobile Flourish launches the creature back, dealing the roll in damage and pushing them 5 feet plus the number rolled. Put a little Christmas magic on your cane to shake up how you hit people, easy. You also get Expertise in two skills, doubling your proficiency with them. Double down on Religion and Animal Handling to get a better handle of your new powers and your mount. You can cast Enhance Ability to make everything you do a little better. Well, not everything, you have to pick one type of ability score check per casting, but still, potentially everything.

Bard 4: Fourth level bards get your first Ability Score Improvement. We need to round up your charisma anyway, so grab the Resilient feat to do just that and get proficiency with charisma saves. You can't banish Santa, he'll just come down the chimney again. Also, grab Prestidigitation to make presents out of nothing, and Knock to get into people's homes. It's a bit noisy, but I doubt someone half-loopy from illness will be a master thief.

Bard 5: Fifth level bards get a better inspiration die, launching d8s instead of d6s. They also become a Font of Inspiration, so you get dice back on short rests instead of long ones. You can also put on Motivational Speeches to rally your party around the one true meaning of Christmas: destroying bad civ.

Sorcerer 1: Bouncing over to Divine Soul sorcerer gives you the best spell list in the game, mostly because it's two spell lists. Cast 'em with your Charisma, check the multiclassing section to figure out how many slots you have. Grab Green-Flame Blade for an extra shiny candy cane, Lightning Lure to use said candy cane to drag people towards you, and Guidance and Resistance to be better than most people. You hang out with a god now, this kind of thing will happen. You also get Mage Armor so you can finally get out of that stuffy leather coat, as well as Shield of Faith for even more AC. You also get an extra spell that is supposed to be based on your alignment, but screw that, grab Inflict Wounds for a really scary candy cane whapping. On top of all that, you are Favored by the Gods, meaning you can add 2d4 to a failed save or attack once per short rest.

Bard 6: Sixth level bards get Countercharm, letting you spend an action to give advantage to nearby allies who are making saves against being charmed or frightened. But that's bad, just attack twice thanks to your Extra Attack. You also learn Tongues, because you can't deliver toys all over the world if you can't understand toy commercials all over the world.

Sorcerer 2: Second level sorcerers become a Font of Magic, giving you your sorcerer level in sorcery points per long rest. You can get more (up to your sorcerer level) by burning spell slots, or vice-versa. You also learn how to cast Magic Missile, for some caster... archer... balls. Whatever. Hit people with magic.

Sorcerer 3: Third level sorcerers learn Metamagic, letting you control your magic a little more than most servants. Transmuted Spell lets you change a spell's damage type, so now your weapon replacement spells can deal the same types of damage. You also get a Heightened Spell, letting you force disadvantage on one person affected by the spell's saving throw. If you throw enough sheep, one of them will hit eventually. Speaking of spells, you get Scorching Ray, letting you send an array of flaming hot sheep at your enemies, making an attack roll for each sheep.

Sorcerer 4: Your last level of sorcerer gets you another ASI. Bump up your Charisma for more powerful sheep-based attacks. Speaking of, you learn Melf's Minute Meteors, creating six tiny sheep that follow you around. When you cast the spell, and each bonus action thereafter, you can throw 1-2 sheep at a point within 120', where they then explode. Every creature within 5' makes a dex save, and they take damage if they fail or half if they succeed. A bit more brutal to the sheep, but you can't argue with results.

Bard 7: Seventh level bards get fourth level spells like Dimension Door. You gotta end up in the sky somehow for your NP.

Bard 8: Eighth level bards get yet another ASI, so bump up that Dexterity. There really aren't any other spells I want for this build at fourth level, but take Freedom of Movement anyway. It should probably be a lot harder to break into the underworld than you make it look.

Bard 9: Ninth level bards get fifth level spells, and their song of rest gets a bit stronger, turning into an extra d8 of healing. Grab Awaken to turn a regular sheep into a cool, smart sheep. Unfortunately, sheep are small creatures, so you won't have a mount, even if you use the Custom Lineage to make a mini-santa. If you want to keep with the theme you could always get a cow, I guess. No matter what you awaken though, it's charmed by you for up to 30 days, after which it'll do whatever it feels is best. Be nice to Dumuzid.

Bard 10: Tenth level bards get a lot of stuff; Expertise in performance and athletics to be the fittest goddamn Santa alive, the Light cantrip for more Christmas decorations, a boosted Bardic Inspiration die, and best of all, Magical Secrets. That last one gives you two spells from any spell list, as long as they're at a level a 10th level bard could cast. Grab the Shillelagh cantrip to make your candy cane stronger without having to invest in strength, and Conjure Woodland Beings to create some real sheep. Probably not the best use of a 4th level spell slot, but why not. Eight sheep.

Bard 11: Eleventh level bards get sixth level spells, and now you can finally set up for the christmas party with a Heroes' Feast. More HP, advantage on wisdom saves, and anyone who partakes can't be frightened, that's some good mood food.

Bard 12: Use your last ASI for the Tough feat, giving you +2 HP for each level you have. We have to keep your constitution low because of your cold, but you're still Attila the Hun, you should be pretty tough to fight.

Bard 13: Seventh level spell time! Grab Prismatic Spray to launch a whole herd of rainbow-powered sheep in a 60 foot cone, forcing a dexterity save on every creature inside it. They then get hit by one of eight colored beams, dealing plenty of damage, petrifying them, or banishing them, all depending on the sheep that hits them.

Bard 14: Time for your final sword bard goodies! As a proper swordsmaster, you get a Master's Flourish, letting you use your flourishes freely, but restricting the damage to a d6 when not burning inspiration. The cane's pretty flowy, so restricting it just doesn't make sense. You also get another round of Magical Secrets- this time you can Conjure Fey to finally make a proper big Dumuzid to ride, and cast Haste to boost yourself now for a drawback later, just like your third skill. For Dumuzid, I assume an "Awakened White Moose" from Icewind Dale should work, but I don't have that book to confirm it.

Bard 15: Your capstone level is another boost to your bardic inspiration for the most damage and support possible, a d12. You also get one last spell, this time at eighth level, Mind Blank. You are made immune to psychic damage and can't have your mind read for 24 hours, and it's even powerful enough to shut down the Wish spell. You can't read a mind that isn't thinking about anything.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

For someone using a whip sometimes, you do pretty good damage. Gift of the Chromatic Dragon will probably last an entire fight, and without concentration it's just free damage. Tack on your flourishes and haste, and you're dealing 6d4 + 2d12 + 18 damage per turn- with median rolls, that's almost 50 damage, and you can keep that up for a couple rounds easily.

You also come packing with a lot of variety in your spell list, with plenty of damage and utility to help you in and out of combat.

Speaking of out of combat, you're weirdly good with skills. Jack of all trades mean you'll never have a negative modifier on a skill check, and Favored by the Gods and Enhance Ability push your advantage as far as it will go.

Cons:

Playing to character means you're using a lot of fire damage, the most easily resisted in the game. Ironically you're going to fight Ereshkigal, so not getting radiant damage is actually helping you a lot. But that doesn't change the fact that fire is the most resisted type.

A lot of your early build doesn't focus on damage at all, so it'll be hard to keep up with the rest of your party in big fights for a while.

Playing to character is a bad idea. We talked about fire already, but also- summoning sheep is a terrible use of a spell slot. Awakening a sheep is a terrible use of a spell slot. Using a whip is just bad, period. Please, feel free to shake things up before bringing it to a tabletop game.

#fgo #fate grand order #D&D 5e #DND #Attila the san(ta) #bard #fighter #sorcerer

[tcm]

The Horror of Christmas By Jessica Pickens

“There'll be scary ghost stories and tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago,” goes the song “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” released in 1963. That Christmas song’s lyric may have left you scratching your head each time you hear it. Written by Edward Pola and George Wyle, the song looks back at old holiday traditions. Ghosts, goblins and creepy murderous tales are strictly relegated to Halloween, right? That’s how it stands today, at least. But in the Victorian era, telling ghost stories was part of the Christmas tradition.

The death and rebirth of a new year during the Winter Solstice seemed like an appropriate time for telling ghost stories. “Whenever five or six English-speaking people meet round a fire on Christmas Eve, they start telling each other ghost stories,” wrote author and humorist Jerome K. Jerome in Told After Supper (1891). “Nothing satisfies us on Christmas Eve but to hear each other tell authentic anecdotes about specters. It is a genial, festive season, and we love to muse upon graves, and dead bodies, and murders, and blood.”

Even while we don’t tell ghost stories today at Christmas, one ghost story is still one of the most beloved Christmas tales, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. But even when it was published in 1843, it was not the first, or last, paranormal story told about Christmas. While the tradition of sharing Christmas ghost stories died long before the dawn of film, it still found its way onto the screen:

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (’38 and ‘51) 

Ebenezer Scrooge is a bitter and mean old man who has no patience for humanity or happiness. On Christmas Eve, a series of ghosts visit Scrooge and take him on a journey of self-exploration. Scrooge revisits his past, present and future and is warned to change his ways before it’s too late.

Since first appearing in a short film in 1901, A CHRISTMAS CAROL has been retold on film and television numerous times for over 100 years. The story has even been retold by The Muppets and Mickey Mouse for family-friendly audiences. It has also been modernized into various time periods, with Scrooge-like characters portrayed by Bill Murray, Henry Winkler, Cicely Tyson, Matthew McConaughey, Vanessa Williams and Susan Lucci.

But there are still several, more faithful retellings of the Dickens novel, including the 1938 version, starring Reginald Owen, and the 1951 version, starring Alastair Sim as the main character.

Released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the 1938 version has a lighter and more joyful vibe. Owen’s Scrooge is more of a grump rather than entirely mean-spirited. He is almost immediately remorseful and says he loves Christmas while he’s with the Ghost of Christmas Present. Gene Lockhart plays Bob Cratchit as a cheerful man, despite having to work for a tyrannical boss. The 1951 version, made in England and released by Renown Pictures Corporation, is a darker telling of the Dickens story. Alastair Sim’s Scrooge is more brutish, cruel and dismissive to Bob Cratchit, played by Mervyn Johns. Johns plays Cratchit as a meeker and more browbeaten character.

Regardless of the films’ differences, the message of both versions is the same. The ghosts in A CHRISTMAS CAROL aren’t meant to frighten the audience but to encourage self-reflection. Scrooge isn’t just haunted by Jacob Marley and the three ghosts; memories of his past haunt him — that’s why he’s so bitter.

BEYOND TOMORROW (’40) 

On Christmas Eve, we meet three elderly businessmen: George Melton (Harry Carey), Allan Chadwick (C. Aubrey Smith) and Michael O’Brien (Charles Winninger). The three men live together and are old friends, but they all have very different pasts. George is a man of little faith and is business-focused with a dark past. Distinguished Allan has a military background and lost his only son in World War I. Michael is the most whimsical of the three.

On Christmas Eve, Michael has the idea that they throw three wallets out into the street to see if an honest person returns them. A young man and woman, Jean Lawrence (Jean Parker) and James Houston (Richard Carlson), return the wallets. Neither having a family to go to that night, they join the gentlemen — all becoming fast friends by the end of the night. As Jean and James fall in love, they become close friends with the three men. Tragedy strikes when all three men are killed in a plane crash, leaving money to the couple so they can marry. However, with the new wealth and publicity, James becomes a singing radio star, forgetting about Jean in favor of another woman. The three men's ghosts try to guide James away from the other woman and encourage Jean to fight for her love.

In this story, the past lives of the three men don’t affect them in life, but in death. Carey’s character, George, is sort of like Scrooge. It’s hinted that he has a dark past, which may involve another woman and murder. Also, in his old age, anything but money is foolish to him. In death, George’s friends warn him that all he has to do is feel sorry for his past, but George has no regrets, even if it means going “to the dark place.”

In contrast, the other two characters are rewarded in death. Smith’s character gets to see his son again, who comes to fetch him. His son tells him that heaven is anything he wants it to be. Charles Winninger’s character is reluctant to leave his friends on Earth because he wants to continue to help them. But before leaving for heaven, he is able to. Even in death, the ghosts have to do good deeds not only to help their friends who are still living but to allow them to rest in the great beyond.

While we may not still tell ghost stories around the fire, the holiday season closes another year, allowing us to reflect on past memories. Some memories may be good, and others may haunt us in a way. However, 2020 may haunt us forever.

#Christmas classics #ghost stories #christmas ghosts #christmas horror #Beyond Tomorrow #A Christmas Carol #TCM #Turner Classic Movies #Jessica Pickens

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Lucien’s A Love Not in Vain Date (Eng Translation)

🍒 Contains detailed spoilers for a date yet to be released in EN! 🍒

Conversation between Lucien and Dr Sun before the date: here

NOTE: @redqueenschoice​ did the translation for this. All I did was proofread and format :> It’s on my blog because:

Candlelit Night Collection: Gavin // Kiro // Victor

Trivia regarding the name of the date:

This date is called 不负相思意, which is the final line of a poem called “Bu Suan Zi” by Li Zhiyi, a Song Dynasty poet

A loose translation of the stanza: When will the river run dry? / When will my sorrow come to an end? / I wish your heart may be like mine / My love for you will not be in vain.

-

Note: The italicised portions are a mix of both translations and summaries!

-

[ CHAPTER ONE ]

Within the university building, the clear sound of the dismissal bell rings.

Lucien: ...then, we shall end today’s lesson here.

I stand at the door of the classroom, watching as Lucien packs his teaching materials in an orderly manner at the lectern. I subconsciously smile at this sight, since it’s been a long time since I’ve seen this side of him.

MC: Lu-

Female student: Mr Lucien, please wait for a moment!

Just as I’m about to call his name, a female student suddenly runs up to the speaker’s podium. The female student looks like she’s gathering up her courage, then says something to Lucien. Her face is slightly red, and there is a hopeful expression on her face.

Lucien’s expression is as gentle and mild as ever. Without speaking, he simply listens quietly, occasionally nodding politely, the look in his eyes a little distant.

Without realising it, I stand on my tiptoes, trying to hear what they have to say. I catch sight of a pale pink perfume sachet clutched tightly in the student’s hand.

MC: I feel like I’ve seen that somewhere before...

I suddenly remember where I’ve seen it: while researching and preparing materials for the episode on the Matchmaker’s Temple.

MC: Could it be... 

I look at Lucien and the female student, before slowly retracting the hand on the door handle. A subtle emotion blooms in my heart. Before it has time to grow, it dissipates the second Lucien turns his head to look at me.

He walks towards me, eyes brimming with affection.

Lucien: Why didn’t you come in? Have you been waiting long?

MC: ...no, no I haven’t. I just got here. Besides, you seem busy. 

Lucien gives me a blank stare for a moment before smiling, reaching out to run his fingers through some strands of my hair. When I lower my head, I catch sight of the female student, who is no longer smiling while she stands on the speaker’s podium. The student leaves the room in a hurry. 

Lucien follows my line of sight and appears to guess what's in my mind. A smile tugs at his lips before he reaches out to tap my forehead lightly.

Lucien: What wild thoughts are you having now?

MC: I wasn’t having any wild thoughts! I came here to ask for your help with something...

I frantically shake my head, grabbing Lucien’s arm and pulling him along without a second thought, as if that would help steer the conversation away. Lucien laughs lightly, smoothly steering me towards the exit.

~

[ On the university grounds ] 

Lucien: Hmm, I think I’ve guessed it. You specially came all the way to the university... just for a work matter, am I right? 

Lucien lets out a soft sigh as he speaks, but the gaze he gives me is filled with a familiar tenderness and doting.

MC: That’s not entirely true...

Lucien: Hmm? Then, what else is there?

MC: There’s somewhere I want to go with you. Although part of the reason is because of the episode we’re doing next week, but...

As I speak, my footsteps stop. I pinch my ears awkwardly before raising my head to meet his eyes.

MC: That place is very special. I only want to go there with you.

-

[ CHAPTER TWO ]

Lucien and I head to the old matchmaker’s temple in the countryside, which holds a lot of history.

In recent years, a legend regarding a mysterious love story that happened decades ago has been getting attention in the media.

Along the way to the temple, I see many young men and women dressed in traditional clothes. There is a festive atmosphere in the air.

MC: Lucien, look at them. They should be participating in the matchmaker’s temple activities.

Lucien: Mm. Seems like this place is very special indeed. Is that why you only wanted to come here with me?

MC: [blushing] I only said that they're dressed in a very formal manner!

Lucien laughs a little.

Lucien: From what I see, it seems we are a little whimsical. Why don’t we dress up as well?

MC: You... you’re teasing me again!

Lucien: What if I am being serious about it?

I feel embarrassed.

Lucien: What are you thinking about?

MC: Nothing! Let’s hurry up and go!

~

As we walk along a dirt path, I realise that this place looks familiar.

MC: Lucien, have we been here before?

I turn my head to look at Lucien, and see that his lips are pulled into a line, emotions swirling in his eyes.

Lucien: Mm.

??: Meow...

Lucien’s words are interrupted by a mewing sound. A fat cat slinks out of nowhere, rubbing its head against his leg. Its eyes are half-closed, its gaze drifting towards me. 

Vaguely, I feel like I've seen this black and white cat before somewhere. When it looks at me, memories surface like a bolt of lightning, and I call out its name excitedly.

MC: Precious!?

After walking a little further along the mountain road, we finally reach Precious’ home. It’s a house of traditional make, with a courtyard just as refined and tranquil as in my memories. Dyed fabrics, threads of all colours, and interesting embroidery are placed in various corners, just as they were before. 

It’s as if nothing has changed at all.

Old grandmother: It seems we really have fate with you! When Precious escaped from the house today, he brought the two of you back with him!

MC: It really is such a coincidence. This explains why the road earlier looked so familiar. The previous time I came, I didn’t realise you stayed at the foot of the mountain of the matchmaking temple.

Old grandmother: This temple suddenly became so lively, and the festival is also drawing near. Ah, are the two of you perhaps here to visit the matchmaking temple?

I nod at first, but when I think of the implications, I become flustered and start to shake my head.

MC: Actually, we...

Lucien: Yes. We are here to visit the matchmaking temple. 

Lucien holds my hand tightly in his, before smiling politely at the old grandmother. The old grandmother smiles brightly, and I can feel my cheeks heat up. Feeling two pairs of eyes on me, I quickly change the topic.

MC: That’s right! Granny, did you know about the ‘legend’ of the matchmaking temple? It’s said that a few decades ago, a pair of lovers whose relationship was rejected by their families ran to the matchmaking temple. But after the man contracted leukaemia and died, the woman also vanished mysteriously... After that, the peach tree planted in the backyard blossomed and attracted many butterflies which surrounded it. That’s why the media has dubbed it the “Legend of the Butterfly Lovers”.

[Trivia from Red: “Legend of the Butterfly Lovers” - a pair of devoted lovers cannot be together when the woman, Zhu, has already been promised to another man by her family. The man, Liang, dies from grief and illness. On the day of Zhu’s marriage, she leaves the procession to pay her respects at Liang’s grave, and begs for the grave to open up. With a crack of thunder, it does, and Zhu throws herself into the grave to join Liang. Their spirits emerge as a pair of butterflies, flying away together, never to be separated ever again.]

Old grandmother: [laughs] Where did such a mystifying story come from! Most of it would have been made up by others. Those legends are all fake! Normal people have to part ways in the end, whether they choose to leave each other life, or are separated by death.

Hearing such grim words, I feel slightly depressed. Lucien opens his mouth to speak.

Lucien: I think this legend came about because people believe in something beautiful. “Out of a million people, only a pair of Butterfly Lovers will become butterflies.”

[Trivia from Red: Lucien is quoting a book called “被结婚” (”Getting Married”) by Yibei. The full paragraph is 大概一千万人之中，才有一双梁祝，可以化蝶。其他化为蛾、蟑螂、蚊蚋、苍蝇、金龟子... 就是化不成蝶, which translate to: “Out of a million people, only one pair of Butterfly Lovers will become butterflies. Others become moths, cockroaches, insects, flies and scarabs... just not butterflies.”]

Lucien: Love that transcends death is, of course, precious. But it is already difficult for people to be deeply in love up to the moment of death. Besides, these two feelings cannot be separated or differentiated. 

Lucien pats my hand gently.

Lucien: So, there’s no need to be upset about it.

Lucien’s voice is soft and gentle, but it settles my heart and puts it at ease.

Old grandmother: Ah, it’s this old woman’s fault for speaking too much! The two of you are still young, and have a long time ahead. As for what we were talking about earlier, the matchmaker you’re about to visit is very efficient! If the two of you are genuine, you will definitely receive blessings!

Old grandmother: But... dressing like this won’t do. I have a change of clothes with me. If the both of you don’t mind, perhaps you could make use of them.

~

Old grandmother: Do the clothes fit?

Lucien: Mm, they fit very well. Thank you for the hard work you put into these.

Old grandmother: Just now, MC asked if she could learn how to do embroidery from me, but I told her there would be some difficulties. Instead, she asked if I could teach her how to tie a “True Lover’s Knot”. When I asked if she wanted to tie one for you, she turned red and refused to let me tell you!

[Trivia from Red: True Lover’s Knot (同心结 - “same heart knot”) symbolises love, friendship and affection]

The old grandmother gets flustered and covers her mouth with her hands.

Old grandmother: Oh no! I just told you all of it!

Lucien: Don’t worry, I won’t mention it to her.

At this moment, I step out of the house dressed in a bridal costume. Lucien’s eyes are fixated on me, unable to look away. The old grandmother comments on how beautiful I look, and I fidget nervously with the costume, blushing shyly.

Lucien: Mm. Very pretty.

I suck in a deep breath and begin walking towards the two of them. Even though I still feel shy, I continue walking to Lucien determinedly. He holds out his hand and thinks -

What’s before him right now is what his heart desires. 

-

[ CHAPTER THREE ]

After bidding the old grandmother goodbye, the two of us continue our way up the mountain path towards the matchmaking temple. Along the way, there are many ormosia hosiei trees. 

I admire the scenery, but can’t help getting distracted by the thought of wearing matching outfits with Lucien.

MC: Why did the old grandmother lend us a wedding set...

Lucien: Do you mind it?

MC: Not really. It’s just think everyone has misunderstood the reason why we’re here. 

This is because people who walk past us on the path keep smiling warmly. Some even come up to us, offering their blessings and congratulations. The thought of being a newlywed couple with Lucien in the eyes of others makes me shy.

Lucien: I don’t find it a bother to be misunderstood like this. If you mind, however...

MC: I... I don’t mind! Let’s hurry. If we aren’t fast enough, there will be many people queuing up as well!

When we reach the temple, I start gathering all the things we need, such as incense and joss paper. Lucien asks me to wait for a moment, and walks over to the lady boss to speak with her quietly.

While waiting for him, I notice a palmistry booth set up not too far away ,and ask for a reading for my affinity and marriage. The practitioner studies my hand carefully. But the more he looks, the more his smile seems to face. I start to grow nervous.

MC: Is there a problem?

Practitioner: Little Miss, your ‘marriage affinity’ line is too faint and I can’t see it clearly.

[Note from Red: time to boost your affinity stats MC UPGRADE THE COMPANY]

MC: [panicking] How can that be? Look again a little more carefully, please...

Practitioner: This matchmaking temple ties the red thread on your ankle. Anyway, your marriage affinity is invisible and cannot be seen or felt. So, Little Miss, there’s no need to be worried. 

He pours me a cup of tea to calm me down, and I ask what the tea is. He tells me that it’s a ‘linking affinity’ tea, and that I should give a cup to my newlywed husband when he comes over.

MC: He still isn’t... the tea is quite bitter...

[Note from Red: I SEE WHAT YOU’RE DOING THERE MC]

Lucien reappears with a pair of flat soled women’s shoes, bends down in front of me and begins to take off my current shoes. The shoes are traditional in appearance to match the outfit, but they don’t fit me well, and it would become a struggle to climb the mountain path. The back of my feet hurt. 

Lucien: Even though this silly girl tried so hard to hide it from me, I still found out in the end. 

Embarrassed, I try to pull my feet away to do it on my own, but Lucien insists and helps me put on the shoes with tender carefulness. When he finishes, I reach for the cup of tea on the table and hold it out to him. 

MC: Lucien, are you thirsty?

Lucien: No, why do you ask?

MC: But the tea here is really delicious! Do you want to try some?

Lucien: Is that so? Then I wonder why a certain someone had a frown on her face and commented that the tea was bitter earlier.

I flush, holding out the tea cup awkwardly with a hand as I try to think of what to say. Lucien seems to enjoy looking at my face and watching my expressions.

Practitioner: The tea tastes bitter, but it has a sweet aftertaste!

I latch on to the excuse like, word for word, ‘a drowning man clinging to a tree branch’.

MC: That’s right, that’s right, that’s right! Now my mouth feels like I’ve just eaten a piece of candy!

Lucien laughs a little.

Lucien: When you put it like that, it’s hard not to be moved. Since that’s the case, I will definitely have to drink it well.

At first, Lucien reaches out for the tea cup on the table. But his hand suddenly pauses in mid-air, changes direction, and grasps my hand instead. While I panic, Lucien brings the teacup in my hand to his lips and takes a sip.

Lucien: Yes, very sweet. 

-

[ CHAPTER FOUR ]

It takes an hour for us to leave the matchmaking temple. Holding a red perfumed sachet in my hand and two red strings, I pull Lucien along with me under the peach tree in the backyard.

I recall my experience in the matchmaking temple earlier, where we got a red perfumed sachet instead of a light pink one like how previous people did. The staff explained that single people get a pink sachet while lovers get a red one. They also wished us a happy relationship that will last a hundred years.

While I stare dazedly at the red sachet in my hand, Lucien thanks the staff.

Remembering the way he had smiled at the sight of the red sachet, I am a little embarrassed and my cheeks turn red. Following the other visitors, I tie the first red string we obtained from the temple onto one of the tree branches and am about to reach for the second one when Lucien stops me. 

Lucien: Here I was, wondering why you were trying to take my red string away. So this is the reason...

MC: ...the staff told me that if I tie the strings together, the gods will see it more easily! Besides...

Before I can continue, I shut my mouth. When two people tie their strings together, it signifies 以树为媒，天地作证“ (i.e. take the trees as your matchmaker, heaven and earth will bear witness to your union).

Lucien: Besides...?

MC: It’s just a better guarantee that the gods will notice it!

Lucien: But you seem to be missing something.

Lucien places his red string into my palm.

Lucien: This red string of mine - would you be willing to help me keep it?

I panic at his words and Lucien laughs, pulling away.

Lucien: All right, I won’t tease you. 

There’s a commotion from a group nearby, and I wonder if it’s the famous “affinity stone” they’re looking at. 

The affinity stone is the other attraction of the mountain aside from the matchmaking temple, and it is said to bless people with good marriage affinity. 

Lucien nudges me lightly towards the group. 

Lucien: Let’s go over and see.

We queue up for a while and finally reach the affinity stone. After a moment, Lucien takes my hand. 

Lucien: Aren’t you going forward to pray?

I think for a moment, then shake my head.

MC: Better not. Too many of my wishes have already come true today. The gods might think that I’m too greedy.

MC: Actually, before we came here, I visited the palm reader. He said my marriage affinity line is too faint to be seen, but he also said afterwards that the red string of fate tying people together is invisible too.

MC: But now, I feel like I understand. Fate has always been something mystical and cannot be changed - only treasured. Am I right?

After saying these words, I try to dispel my negative thoughts. But Lucien makes a thoughtful expression.

MC: Lucien, do you want to offer a prayer? Ah, what nonsense am I saying? You’re a scientist, so you probably don’t believe in any of this....

Lucien: It’s not because of the reason you’ve mentioned. It’s just that in my opinion, there’s no need to do such a thing.

The wind blows. At this moment, many butterflies suddenly flutter over to the peach tree we are standing under. I reach out to touch a butterfly, and Lucien imitates me. A butterfly lands where our fingertips touch.

MC: Lucien, look! So pretty.

Lucien: Who says affinity is invisible? Before me right now, isn’t affinity made visible? 

He looks at me with calm certainty and sincerity in his eyes. 

-

After visiting the affinity stone, I begin to tie a decorative chinese knot.

Lucien: What are you tying?

MC: I’m making something that can be worn on the wrist, although I don’t know if it’d turn out well. 

Lucien: I'm looking forward to it. However, do you not have enough strings? Why have you taken mine as well? 

MC: ...I wanted to make one for you too!

Lucien: But as far as I’m aware, a red string with a knot to be worn around the wrist has a special meaning.

MC: I-is... is that so?

Lucien: If lovers wear them, it symbolises “lifelong love”. But if a single person wears it, it means “peace and safety”. This time, which should I believe?

MC: Err...

Upon seeing my stunned face, Lucien simply laughs and reaches out to poke me gently on the nose.

Lucien: It’s alright. I just couldn’t resist teasing you. You don’t need to...

Before he can complete his sentence, I stand on my tiptoes and kiss him on the cheek lightly. 

Lucien’s eyes go wide, and his smile deepens. Heart racing, I say in a voice just loud enough for the both of us to hear:

MC: The first meaning!

-

[ CHAPTER FIVE ]

Since it’s getting late, Lucien and I head back down the mountain path. I take out the “Lover’s Knot” that I made earlier using the strings from the temple, and place it in Lucien’s hand.

MC: This one is done! Here, see if it fits.

The knot isn’t very fancy or elaborate, but it contains all my sincerity. The other half-completed knot is clutched tightly in my own hand.

Lucien: This knot...

Has he seen through me?

[Note from Red: no shit mc you’re as subtle as a wrecking ball in a china shop]

Smiling, Lucien slips the knot onto his left wrist very carefully.

Lucien: It fits very well. You did a good job. Compared to the peace knot you made the last time, you’ve improved a lot.

MC: That was my first time!

Lucien: Did you have a lot of practice?

MC: Instead of practicing, I discovered the secret to making a good knot! The secret is... when you make the knot, you have to think about the person who’s going to be wearing it! That way, your thoughts and feelings will be woven into the knot!

Lucien: Did someone tell you this secret?

MC: I really can’t hide anything from you! Actually, I asked the old grandmother to teach me a little earlier. She said that “two strings tied together are called a ‘knot’. The fate of two people tied together is also called a ‘knot’. The ‘Lover’s Knot’ is not just a decoration, but symbolises love and longing between two people.

Lucien: So, it holds much meaning. Thank you for telling me.

When our gazes meet, it’s as if the world has fallen silent, leaving nothing but the echo of our heartbeats. The scenery around me seems to lose all colour, except for Lucien and the red fruit of the ormosia hosiei trees.

[Trivia from Red: They are also called love seeds, symbolising love and fidelity. In countries such as China and Taiwan, men often give these red beans to their lovers as an expression of commitment. It’s also a cultural belief that if married couples put six red beans underneath each of their pillows, their love will remain throughout eternity.]

MC: “Love seeds embedded in ivory dice, my yearning for you engraved into my bones...”

Even though I say this softly, it reaches Lucien’s ears. His eyes are wavering, and he seems to have been caught off guard by my words. I realise what I just said aloud and hurry to clear up the misunderstanding.

MC: It’s just a quote I really liked when I was a student! I even wrote it down on a bookmark! I just said it aloud when I saw the scenery...

Lucien doesn’t say a word, and only smiles at me. After a few moments, he speaks.

Lucien: Do you have any inspiration for the next episode yet? 

I nod at first, but shake my head afterwards.

MC: About the legend of the matchmaking temple, I’m not sure which is the best angle to approach it... There are people who love each other till they die, and there are also people who carry the love of another person as they walk alone. Doing either requires courage, but as you said, both cannot be differentiated...

Lucien: If you don’t know how to approach it, how about thinking about it from a different perspective, or finding new inspiration? Would you be willing to listen to my suggestion?

MC: Of course!

Lucien: As you were saying earlier, when two strings are tied together, they form a knot. When tied on the wrists, they hold two people together.

MC: What you’re saying is that love is what ties people together? That it’s something like the red string of fate?

Lucien: Even if two people aren’t together, their mutual longing for each other can be felt through the string of fate that connects them.

Lucien picks up one end of the knot tied around his wrist. With the other hand, he takes the end of the string in my hand.

Lucien: When tied together by fate, even if separated at the ends of the world, it will never break. 

#mlqc #mlqc cn #mlqc spoilers #mlqc lucien #REDQUEENSCHOICE TRANSLATED THIS

[sapphoslibrary]

@holy-shit-its-wolfstar so like, this can barely be considered a birthday gift anymore because it’s taken me so long to rewrite it, so let’s just call it... a token of my endless love and appreciation for you. hope you like it :)

“Can I show you one more thing before we go?” Willow asks.

We’re at an arts festival in Boston, not far from Willow’s apartment. Willow goes every year, and this year it happened to fall on my birthday, so we elected to do this instead of a party. It’s a million times better, in my opinion.

“Sure. What is it?” I ask, walking just behind Willow.

Willow glances over at me with a mischievous smile. “A surprise.”

“I still don’t like surprises, Willow,” I mutter, cocking an eyebrow at her.

Willow laughs and squeezes my hand. “You’ll like this one. Come on, we’re almost there.”

She tugs at my arm, breaking into an almost-run to get to whatever this final surprise is. I let out a huff of a laugh and follow her, running to keep up with her longer strides. Willow flashes me a grin and slows down after a minute.

“Right here,” she whispers, her cheeks flushing. She gestures to a piano sitting amongst a curtain of cherry blossom trees and a wide assortment of flowers.

The piano is painted with a messy mix of yellows and greens and pinks, chipping in random places, the words ‘play me’ written in large letters across the front. There are hundreds of signatures all over, overlapping each other, from everyone who’s played this piano. I smile at Willow, my eyebrows shooting up.

“Has this always been here?” I ask, my eyes fixed on the messy and unique piano. We come to this park all the time, but I’ve never noticed this.

“Yep,” Willow says cheerfully. She sits at the edge of the bench and taps a couple keys. “For, like, a decade. I used to practice on it all the time before I could afford my own.”

She gestures for me to sit beside her on the bench. I sit down at the edge, my hands folded in my lap. Willow reaches into her bag, and pulls out her yellow binder full of sheet music.

“I want to play you something,” Willow whispers, her voice suddenly switched from cheerful and excited to nervous. “I’ve been working on it for a while. It still needs some revisions, but… I wanted to play it for you today.”

I kiss Willow’s temple, and she relaxes slightly, smiling softly. “Let’s hear it, then. Serenade me,” I say, grinning against her hair.

Willow flicks to the very end of the binder and props it up above the keys. I immediately notice something different about the sheet music-- it’s all handwritten. The staff lines are shaky and uneven, and some of the notes end in Willow’s signature whimsical little swirls. The title at the top just says For Lyra.

She wrote this for me.

Willow’s hands hover over the keys like she’s considering backing out. I give her shoulder an encouraging squeeze, and she starts to play.

Her hands move swiftly and effortlessly across the keys like they were made for it. Her eyes scan her own handwriting, but it’s clear she doesn’t even need it-- she wrote it with her own hands, and she knows it by heart. All of the tension and nervous energy has depleted, and she’s focused just on creating beautiful sounds and steady rhythms with just the tips of her fingers.

It’s the most beautiful piece I’ve ever heard. Soft, and tender, full of pretty chords and trills that sound like little twinkles. The tune is unfamiliar to me right now, but I can’t wait to know it by heart like Willow does. A smile tugs at my lips as I listen, the stunning music taking over every other thought in my mind.

A cherry blossom petal falls onto the keys. Willow quickly sweeps it away, onto my lap, and I discreetly tuck it into my pocket. She glances at me for a second and smiles.

After what feels like a lifetime but was really no more than two minutes, the song ends abruptly. Willow plays one more chord, then looks at me, biting her lip.

“Sorry. I still have to write the ending, but--”

I pull her into a tight hug, pressing a million little kisses into her hair. She lets out a surprised huff and squeezes me back, her fingers curling around my sweater. After just a second, I pull back to tilt my forehead against hers.

“Willow Jane Addison. Babe. Love of my life,” I whisper. My cheeks ache from smiling. “That was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard.”

Willow practically melts against me, grinning. “You liked it?” She whispers.

“Loved it. I would listen to it all day, with or without an ending,” I whisper back, twirling a lock of her hair around my finger. “This is the best fucking surprise ever.”

Willow gives a sigh of relief and pulls me into a loose hug, her arms draping around my neck. “Thank god,” she whispers, her breath fanning against my hair. “Happy birthday, Lyra.”

#i’m so sorry it’s so messy and it’s taken me so long #i literally just wrote it on my phone at the barnes and noble café (which you can only sit at for 30 mins 😭) #but i hope you like it at least a little bit #drewish #willow & lyra #my ocs

[muwi-translates]

Collar x Malice Short Story: Inside the Box

Christmas Shiraishi-centric short story.

HEAVY SPOILERS. Only read this AFTER you have finished the first game.

**Please don’t move this translation or claim it as your own.**

Generally speaking, the thing called ‘Memories’ is not clear.

Unlike memory as information, it has no fixed form. Its content can depend on the person.

Sometimes sad memories turn into hatred, and happy memories sometimes turn into delusions.

The human brain can't be trusted. It can automatically rewrite itself for its own benefit.

I, who did not require ‘Memories’ —— surely it is the same for Shiraishi Kageyuki the human.

◇ ◇ ◇

This was when I lived in the ‘Facility’.

Every day, every minute and every second, I lived like a machine.

For me, who knew how to suppress pain and happiness as soon as I understood how, all I had was ‘Curiosity’.

The vast amount of knowledge grew with each passing day. Memories of the outside world were written in letters. Like events of a distant world, even the difficult to read special books were simply ‘Unknown Stories’ to me.

I thought that my desire to know things defined my personality. However, when I think about it now, it may have been a desire planted in me as part of my training. Training to become a perfect doll.

"Christmas. The festival celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, coming from the word "Christ mass", it takes the form of many activities in Japan—...”

Inputting information was simple. However, I was also trained how to ‘Use Memory’. If a huge amount of information stayed on the surface of the brain, it will become confused, so if it is not necessary, there was no need to take out the memory sealed in the deeper layers.

(Gifts are put under a tree, and you gather with your family around the dinner table…)

Perhaps this information will also be stored in a box that is rarely retrieved from.

Of course I knew the basics, it was only carefully investigated because it was related to other information.

(Giving love to each other...for what...?)

The outside world is full of as many far-fetched, mysterious customs as mountains. If you had questions about everything, it would only make the processing slower. But this time, I was not sure why I was so interested in this subject.

"Are you interested in Christmas?"

——Suddenly hearing a sound coming from behind, my shoulders moved unconsciously.

Points are deducted if you are seen reacting. I immediately pretended to be calm and looked back, only to see an unfamiliar face.

“Your hand, it’s been paused on this page for a while now.” 

What peered at me was a pair of eyes full of serenity, transparent no matter where you looked — like glass balls.

"No, I'm very sorry. I memorised it without any problems."

"I’m not blaming you for anything. I know you have good scores here."

He was a high-ranking person who has inspected this ‘Facility’ many times. 

But his appearance did not match his position, with his youthful face. He appeared to be younger than me.

I remembered his name, because it was necessary for me to do so.  —Mikuni Rei. He was a human who worked with those who ‘control’ us.

“I’m interested why you, someone that’s like a precision machine, showed interest in ‘that’, that’s all.”

"I didn't become interested... I just had questions."

"Like?"

“......”

What was the meaning of his response? Was I being tested, or was he being whimsical? Either way, I had no right to not reply.

"Why do humans, who aren’t related to that religion, choose to give each other love on that day? What for?”

"...I think there are many other things similar to it but..."

"Yes. But... after reading this information, I think for the average person, this part seems to be more special than others."

As I finished speaking, he— Mikuni Rei’s eyes became slightly dim for some reason. Careful observation of the facial expression can lead to an answer.

【Pity】

A boy in the ruling class felt compassion for a stray cat trapped in a box.

A sense of superiority, a desire for control, and empathy. There were many times where I wanted to give it a name, but it was difficult to understand because I was immature.

"Human feelings... cannot be explained by theory alone. If you feel special, it must be because it touches your heart.... If the other person is the object of your envy and admiration, they are not bound by rights or wrongs."

Thoughts continued to sound as the words continued.

If ‘we’ have feelings for a particular thing, in his viewpoint, it is not a good thing. However, he agreed.

“Why do you treat me like a human?”

“Eh?”

Asking questions is normally prohibited. But now my curiosity had prevailed. This was a serious error. There should be no more curiosity beyond the rules.

"You said these things about a pawn, things impossible to explain with theory."

"...You are right. I don't know why. It's just..."

 After speaking, his bewildered gaze stayed on me, and then he spoke unwaveringly.

 "Number 14. I... don't want you to be unhappy."

...At that time, he smiled.

But what kind of smile it was— I can’t remember.

Pitiful? Loathing? Hateful? Kindly? 

I don’t remember. I can't remember.

Because it's stored in a box that can't be taken out, deep and deep inside.

◇ ◇ ◇

In my dream, someone is calling my name.

 “————Shiraishi-san.”

Did I always have this human-sounding name? I want to lie and tell myself that this is true.

But it's impossible. Even my name, which was supposed to be just a code, has become so dear to me.

“Oi, Okazaki! There’s no room for you here for dinner!”

"How mean. But it's okay, I'll eat some from Mineo-san’s.”

“It’s NOT okay! No one told you to come!”

“I’m sorry, Enomoto. ...I was the one who called Okazaki here today.”

“Geh! Yanagi-senpai?! When did you fall this guy’s wily ways—!?”

"His voice was so loud we heard it from inside, obviously he’ll attract attention. Yanagi-san probably didn’t want to disturb the neighbors."

“Yanagi-san let me in when I kept saying ‘I’m so cold… I’m so lonely…’, fufu, he’s so nice.”

“So you just left Yoshinari outside? Talk about pitiful…”

“I'll bring him a souvenir later. It's food that Yanagi-san and Ichika-chan made together. It'll definitely be delicious."

“I don’t know if it’ll suit your tastes but… Ah, but Yanagi-san’s food, I promise it’ll move you! It’s definitely not inferior to food you’ll find at high-end restaurants.”

"Why does the stupid cat look so proud?"

"It looks good thanks to Hoshino being particular about the arrangement."

“Yanagi-senpai…! I’m getting a little jealous watching you two compliment each other, please stop it!!”

Ah, so noisy. Completely unproductive dialogue. There’s no calculation and no falsity, the boring everyday that I like.

When did I get used to this warmth and treat it as part of my everyday?

While I was thinking in a daze, Ichika-chan reached out to me.

“Shiraishi-san, come here. The party has already begun."

——Party?  ……Is that so? Has it started?

"These were all made with everything we had. Let's have a good meal today."

 ——Fufu, as usual, Yanagi-san takes care of others like this.

“......Though I really don’t understand what’s so good about a bunch of us adults coming together.”

 ——Although that was what Sasazuka said, he also stayed behind to join in.

"Hey, don't stand there in a daze! You’re the protagonist today!"

 ——Hm? Did Enomoto-kun just call me ‘you’?

“I heard Ichika-chan is giving you a present, right?” 

——Even Okazaki is here… Fufu, he must have come in by force.

"Yes. It’s a wonderful gift I prepared with everyone."

I took a box from Ichika-chan who was smiling as she spoke.

I felt strange rather than happy. I was looking right at Ichika-chan, instead of looking down.

Yanagi-kun patted my head, and it also seemed to feel very big. No, maybe it's because I have shrunk.

Thin limbs, short hair. I am the same age as when I talked to ‘Him’ about Christmas.

(Ah. Is this… a dream?)

It seems I dream too much at Christmas.

"But Ichika-chan. I haven't prepared a gift."

"No, Shiraishi-san. We’re...returning you what you gave us."

“...? What I gave you?”

 "Yes. You gave us… a lot. It's only natural that we want to return the favour."

“I see… so this is what it means… to exchange gifts…”

"Yes. We want to share it, because we cherish each other. Please open it, and take a look."

“Okay.”

I slowly opened the box, and inside was——、

 ◇ ◇ ◇

When I opened my eyes, I saw a familiar scenery.

This was their base, called the ‘Detective Agency’. It also became a place I could feel comfortable as well. 

“Ah, Shiraishi-san, you’re awake?”

A pair of eyes I seem to always see somewhere, someplace, were looking at me. Crystal clear—like glass balls. 

“Ichika-chan…? Ah, huh? Where’s... the present box…?” 

"? Fufu, it's rare to see you half-awake. If you sleep in a place like this, you’ll catch a cold. Are you going to the office to stay overnight?"

I realized the reality as my consciousness gradually returned from my awakening. 

That’s right. The collar—in order to protect herself from those who had declared to ‘pick her up’, she had taken refuge here with her brother.

The deadline announced by Adonis was approaching soon. In order to make her forget this fact temporarily, I had been talking to them about Christmas. When I thought about the gift she gave—and the only gift I could make, I fell asleep.

(Truly... the ‘Heart’ is so difficult to understand. I… must have been scared to have a dream like that.)

 —Everything will end soon.

That smile of his I had gently stored away was blacked out. 

The contents of the boxes I had received from her and everyone had been badly damaged and dirtied.

But I decided not to regret it, even if I was scared or in pain.

Because I got the most precious gift in the world.

"Ichika-chan...Thank you."

"Eh?"

"You taught me my first Christmas, right? So, thank you."

"What are you talking about? The real fun starts from now on."

"...Fufu, yeah."

In a few days, we won’t be able to greet Christmas as we promised. Regardless of what happens, it will only make you sad.

Even if I understand that, I want to see it. I don't want to give up. I want to make my wish come true.

 This is certainly not a sad story.

I, who had received such a present, could not be unhappy. 

Even if I get it dirty with my own hands, this warmth will not disappear.

There’s no reasoning. It’s because I’m human. ...Because I am special.

A shining, sparkling gift for me, who was supposed to be called Number 14.

An opened box filled to the brim with tender memories.

#otome #otome game #otomate #collar x malice #cxm #shiraishi kageyuki #mytranslations

[reeesea]

Something Sweet: Part Eight

~something special~

one ~ two ~ three ~ four ~ five ~ six ~ seven ~ eight ~ nine

pairing: minsung, han jisung/lee minho

warning: mild language, some alcohol consumption

words: 4.4k

summary:  Jisung gets his night out and a new birthday buddy 

a/n: This au isnt dead! yay, I hope you enjoy the mess <3

ao3 link

-----------

“Hyung, where are we going?” Jisung tried his best to sigh as loudly and dramatically as possible. “Today was already so long, you could've just left me on the couch tonight.” His whining was largely ignored by his friends to much of Jisung’s despair. He was feeling a little bit drained at the fact the trio had all spent the day in meetings with groups of people, and now was being dragged, his introverted ass to be exact, was being dragged out of their apartment to be around even larger groups of people. Damn his members for both being charismatic bastards with extrovert tendencies. 

“Ji, you're literally always complaining that we never go out. Aaand you're right. We never do sooo, here we are.” Changbin had all but peeled Jisung off his blanket pile on the couch and into his nicest pair of jeans and his “least offensive” shirt. According to Changbin of course that meant a sleek black button up, that he's pretty sure Changbin had gifted him some Christmas ago. But of course being Han Jisung he had found a few of his favorite accessories to complete his look.

“Plus something tells me you won't be complaining for too long, once we get there”

“What's that supposed to mean Channie-hyung”  

He continued on without giving him a response. They had been walking for only a few minutes, neon filling the street as streams of people made their way through to the various bars and restaurants on the block. The glow of the nightlife was electric, Jisung couldn’t deny it, but he still didn't find it to be what he would call a comforting atmosphere. It definitely had nothing on his blanket cocoon he had going on the couch. Spacing out as Chan led them through the streets, the oldest took an abrupt left into an entrance of a bar, almost hidden by the largest store fronts that occupied either side of it. 

As soon as Jisung stumbled through the doorway, a sense of deja vu came over him. Well maybe not deja vu because he had definitely been here before. The mirrored walls and the low lit space was now full of weekend patrons that breathed life into the place that he hadn't realized it was missing the first time he visited. Wait, when had he visited this place? 

“Jisung!” 

Minho!? Before he could spend any more time traversing his thoughts he looked over to the bar to find Minho smiling brightly at him. Unlike his first visit, Hyunjin was un-uniformed, seated on a stool alongside a giggling Felix, and not behind the bar. Chan and Changbin both shared a look before gently shoving Jisung to move out of the doorway and toward their friends. 

“What are you doing here?!” Jisung somehow didn’t think he would be seeing the older this weekend, they had shared similar sentiment over the past week that they were looking forward to a no-plan-weekend.

“What do you mean I work here.” Hyunjin mused sarcastically. Felix hit him, and got up enthusiastically to greet them. 

“WE’RE BIRTHDAY TWINS, we HAVE to celebrate” Felix hugged him immediately. Jisung was surprisingly comfortable in his clingy embrace. Something about the disarming nature of the boy made it feel almost natural, and maybe it was. Clearly a bit tipsy already the freckled boy talked animatedly about how excited he was to finally have a friend that was “LITERALLY” his age. Jisung admittedly could relate, and found himself beaming right back at his new companion.

---

Minho hadn’t taken his eyes off the youngest rapper since he ‘walked’, stumbled, through the door. He was initially afraid that Jisung would feel sore about celebrating his birthday with Felix but the bright look in his eyes when they met his, smoothed any of those anxieties. 

Last week, Minho was more than surprised to get a text from an unknown number. It turned out just to be Bang Chan looking to plan a get together between the lot of them for the youngest’s birthday. Tragic backstory and all, Chan was sure to elaborate on Jisung’s dreams of going out with his friends.

“He really just wants to be a normal kid ya know, well not a kid exactly, and not normal by any means, but you get my point. To be honest, as hyungs we feel bad for taking that away from him. He's so pure at heart really, and he works so hard, and I know he doesn't sleep enough, but does anyone really? hahaha, anyway...” Minho found that Chan rambled just like Jisung, it was painfully endearing. 

Of course, Minho had agreed to let them help coordinate a get together. It was mostly Chan who had his own work cut out for him. Negotiating with their company about last minute free time was a challenge but he just had to reassure their management that everything was in place and promise that they wouldn't do anything “newsworthy” to potentially hurt their debut. Minho reassured them that dispute the host club’s reputation, Sweet Lotus was probably the most secure club in town.

Chan had been frantically messaging Minho just an hour ago, about how they couldn't find Jisung, only to get a message ten minute later apologizing and reassuring him that he was actually just buried on the couch. Chan gave off single parent vibes so strongly, Minho can’t help but let his guard down, and found himself warming up to the 3RACHA leader quickly. He looks rather relieved to have made it to the Sweet Lotus with Jisung in tow. Jisung’s loud but warm laugh filled the air and Chan’s shoulders visibly relaxed with a gentle smile stretched across his face. Minho found his heart settled comfortably in his chest as well. 

---

“EXCUSE ME EVERYONE.” Although the statement was only for the ears of the six of them, a few surrounding victims were pulled in by Hyunjin’s dramatic exclamation. “I require a toast for this evening! Even though we haven’t known each other long. THIS night, is a night of celebration, of birthdays, of new friendships, of potential one nigh-” 

“Hyunjin!” 

“Sorry… Anyway, first ones on me boys lets get it.” dramatically distributing shots of clear liquid they all did a inaugural cheers simultaneously downing the shot. Jisung made a disgusted face that triggered some subtle harassment from Changbin, who pinched his cheeks fondly. 

The night now officially blessed by Hyunjin standards, Minho decided it was probably time to actually begin the night’s planned festivities. “While I do enjoy shots of free soju, that's not exactly why we're here. Is it?”

“It's not?” Granted Jisung had no clue why he was in most situations, but he was especially lost having been told nothing prior. 

“Come on Sungie, it’ll be fun” Minho took his hand subtly, and led them up a set of stairs near the back of the bar. Soft magenta light flooded the stairwell as they made their way to the second floor. Minho nodded at the tall handsome host at the entrance, allowing them to enter the lounge freely. Upbeat music flooded the room, bodies dancing under other multicolor lights seemed so content it was almost like a scene out of a movie. Pairs of couches laided with expensive looking fabric, and even more expensive looking patrons lined the walls. A light fog dusted the floor, and everything about the room felt intoxicating and indulgent.

Jisung looked up to find Minho’s gaze already on him, warm and inviting as ever. He looked like a perfect match to the pink haze and sweet scents that surrounded him. Minho led the group with such confidence and grace he matched his beautiful environment, it was very clear why he was so popular when he had worked at the Sweet Lotus. He embodied the very image. The self conscious part of his brain wouldn’t let him enjoy the image long though.  

Something about him couldn't help but feel like he stuck out. Sure Changbin had dressed him up for their outing, but he still couldn’t help but feel like he didn't belong to be surrounded by people as beautiful as his new friends. 3RACHA wasn’t exactly known for their beautiful charms or dainty visuals. Minho, Felix with his whimsical smile, and Hyunjin with his undaunting charisma were all in their element here. Jisung always had a rough time figuring out his image outside of 3RACHA.

Apparently sensing his anxiety he felt Minho's hand hold on to his firmer, and even Chan left a gentle pat on his head. Already situated themselves in a secluded booth near the back, Changbin had already gone off to order drinks for their table with Hyunjin, Felix was talking to Chan about their shared home town, Sydney. And then there was Minho. Looking at him with a raised eyebrow and a questioning look. 

“What, is there something on my face?” 

Minho’s giggles somehow sound like bells, Jisung can’t explain why. “No, no you just seem uneasy. I just want to make sure you're actually happy to be here”

“I am I promise! I'm just really surprised, I had a long day and I didn't really know what was happening until we got here, and I’ve never been to a place like this before, and I haven't seen you in a while and, wow let me tell you it's really good to see you.” Suddenly he felt like his face and hands were on fire. His connected hand with Minho’s burned with the realization. 

“Also you're still holding my hand! Did you know that? In case you didn't know I just wanted to make sure you knew. Not that I want you to stop I actually really enjoy it, but just in case you like forgot or somet-”

“You're adorable Sungie.” Minho’s eyes remained locked on Jisung with overwhelming fondness. Just ask Jisung, he was definitely overwhelmed. His face continued growing hotter until he saw a hand outstretched with a glass of liquor in front of his face.

“Ji, take the drink and close your jaw you'll thank me later.” Chanbin coaxed the flustered brunette to drink the bitter alcohol he had brought. Tearing away from Minho’s intense stare, he accepted the drink and took a sizable sip from the glass.

“LEE MINHO.” The 3RACHA boys all practically jumped out of their skins at the booming voice. While subtle grins formed on the unbothered roomates.

“Ope, Who told on me?” Minho asked, completely unfazed, looking at his roommate accusingly.

“It wasn't me….” Hyunjin’s lists of excuses died in his throat, as a woman dressed in a sparkling purple dress made her way over to their corner booth, finger already pointing accusingly at Minho. 

“How dare you show your face in this place after 3 months, without a WORD.” The woman almost sounded betrayed and hurt through her voice. Still it was obvious that the threatening woman immediately demanded respect with the way she held herself. Although her words were sharp her graceful features didn't deliver much real malice other than signs irritation at the oldest dancer.

“I’m sorry, Noona time got away from me~” Minho flashed his innocent puppy eyes and added a subtle charm to his words that the beautiful woman seemed to be completely immune to.

“Uh huh, and I'll pretend I believe that excuse.” Something akin to a standoff seemed to be occurring between the two. 

“But ONLY because I missed seeing your pretty face around here.” 

“...Guys, this is Momo-noona she owns Sweet Lotus.” Hyunjin’s attempt to provide the bystanders with some context broke the light tension in the air. Momo shifted her expression to a bright smile that suddenly screamed gentle kindness, void of all the intensity it had previously held at Minho.

Seemingly hoping to aid in the situation Chan jumped in to respond, “Oh well, it's great to meet you, I’m Ch-”

“Oh, don't worry, I know exactly who you are.” The eldest member’s eyes widened and a nervous laugh escaped his lips, not expecting to be recognized. Especially by the semi-threatening woman.

“You're the hometown heroes around here, the next big thing in the music industry hmmm?” 

The trio seemed to only be more cemented in their stunned silence. Momo’s smug expression did not last long before transforming into a large smile and welcoming expression. Her aura radiated a welcoming feeling, unmatched, even by her employed hosts.

“Truly, it's my pleasure that I get to host the 3RACHA boys, you'll always be welcomed here.”  

“I- uh um, Were flattered really, Thank-” Changbin stumbled out.

“You don't have to Thank me any sweet Changbinnie~ as long as you enjoy yourselves and promise to visit again. I’m happy.” Changbin’s ears glowed red at that, thankfully hidden by the colored lights.

“How do you know us so well? Is Hyunjin gossiping more than he should be?” Jisung poked some fun at the bartender.

“Hey! Confidentiality is our highest priority. I would NEVER!” Hyunjin crossed his arms defensively, sinking further into their booth.

Momo giggled, content with her employee’s loyalty, “Thank you for that Jinnie, but no a friend of  Sana is a friend of mine”

“Wait you know Sana-noona?” Jisung was surprised that Sana actually talked about them to her friends, a part of him hoped she was proud to be associated with them.

“Mhm, believe it or not your sweet Sana-nonna is my closest friend. We’re thick as thieves, we were even roommates for a few years when we first arrive in Korea” 

“Woah” Changbin was definitely glowing with some pride now at the implied indirect compliments and recognition. Meanwhile Chan was still trying to connect the dots in his head from all of the new information, a cute confused look on his face.

Momo took a moment to lean closer to Jisung’s face. Acknowledging their hands that were still joined. Directing her attention back on Minho with a smirk, “He’s a cutie Lee Know. I’ll give you a pass on abandoning me for months, if this one is the one stealing away from my establishment.”

  Minho grew red at the use of his past host name, and personal nickname from Momo. Minho’s nervous laugh erupted out of him. “Aaahhhhh okay Momo-noona thanks! it was great seeing you, ah would you look at that I need another drink. Come with me Hannie.” 

Minho was slightly scrambling to escape the booth in embarrassment at Momo’s dramatic encounter with them all. Jisung was pulled in tow from their joined hands. 

“Oh okay, it was nice meeting you Momo-ssi.” Jisung used his free hand to wave at their booth before they disappeared into the dancing crowd. 

Hyunjin had revived himself from the booth, giggling at his retreating roommate. Felix joined in too, and enjoyed seeing the flustered side of their hyung.

“Is he always that precious. I just have the urge to pinch his cheeks.” Alluding to Jisung, Momo turned to the remaining 3RACHA boys for confirmation.

“We all do.” Chan’s full charming smile and older brother's pride visible on full display.

---

The night continued as “planned”, once the unofficial couple returned from the bar. More alcohol was ordered to sustain the drinking games that Hyunjin had spearheaded into teaching the rest of them. Being the current university student apparently was enough qualification for the rest of them to follow without any resistance. 

“Okay and so once your turn is done you pass your glass to the next person and they have to go.” Although full of enthusiasm the rules didn't make sense, nor could anyone properly follow them, so it ended up just being Hyunjin yelling at the each of them when they should or shouldn't drink. 

“CHANGBIN they won on your turn, so that means you do a shot!” 

“What I- Okay hand me the bottle.” Without even pouring a glass, he shot back an acceptable amount of soju for Felix to drunkenly cheer from beside him. 

“Yay Changbin!!! Join me on my journey to blackout.”

“Lix baby, that should not be your goal.”

“It never is.” Felix sighed at his hyungs concerns, but not before taking a sip from his fruity cocktail he had ordered earlier. Jisung had an identical cocktail one that he had finished quickly. Felix had originally ordered them so they could “match for their celebration”. No one could ever say no to Felix, and that remains the only thing that makes him truly dangerous.

Overall, it was a mess, but all of them finished the game substantially more tipsy when they started. Jisung was definitely starting to feel the effects of the empty bottles and glasses around him. He felt a little numb but just enough to be more comfortable and accepting of the new atmosphere. Having not expected any of this tonight, he definitely found himself surprised that they all had gotten through the large number of bottles that the uniformed waitress had brought them not even an hour ago. 

The buzzed feeling in his body didn't make him any less aware of his company though. Felix's bubbly personality comforted and uplifted the whole group. Changbin ended up being a  relatively heavy drinker, having lost the most rounds during their games, and became more animated as the night went on. Chan was smiling almost non-stop and it made Jisung glad to see his oldest hyung relax and enjoy a night out, after working so hard for so long. Hyunjin’s laugh would echo through each conversation making the environment warm and fun. Jisung never would have thought that the fabled “night out” trope would actually feel relaxing. He couldn't help but smile to see his hyungs and his new friends become closer. So much of his life has shifted since meeting Minho.

Minho’s hand had been disconnected from his still they returned but they still sat knee to knee in the booth. The shared warmth of their legs and the mindless fiddling of fingers when Minho would reach over to play with the frayed strings on the holes of his jeans, kept the content feeling of butterfly wings steadily in his stomach. Jisung felt full of bliss as well as soju. 

-

Minho was mostly focused on all the group’s conversations and the liquid level of his glass, but every so often would sneak glances beside him to make sure Jisung was still smiling. Sometimes staring back, sometimes not but Minho wanted to make sure the other was enjoying his birthday celebration. The smile that had been plastered on Jisung’s face and his infectious laugh that flooded the room, was enough to reassure the older. 

Minho managed to stay just relatively tipsy for most of the night but the rest of his roommates did not seem to be as in control of their drinking as he was tonight. Hyunjin had descended into his sleepy contemplative state of drunk while Felix was practically buzzing with electricity as he talked off the 3RACHA members’, and anyone who would listen’s, ear off. 

Drawing back in to see how Jisung was doing he found that the younger boy’s eyes were already on him. A heart shaped smile spread across his face as their eyes met. 

“Before you give me those dopey eyes again. Yes, Minho-hyung I am having  a good time and have been since the last time you checked.”

Minho forced his mouth to close after being caught. He was about to deny his accusation when Jisung just reached for his hand and held it smiling, actively shutting the other up. Suddenly very distracted by the way the neon lights bounced off the others' faces to leave it practically glowing. Minho had always found himself curious of how Jisung could be so breathtaking and still act like he didn't know it. Jisung laughed at Minho’s expression, and who was he to not join him. He would never be able to deny that the younger’s laugh was irresistible. 

“Oh my god I love this song, come dance with meeee” A loud, very drunk Felix shouts, as the sunshine boy practically pulls Changbin, also a rather enthusiastic drunk, and Minho toward the dance floor. The inhuman strength of the younger when he is intoxicated is enough to somehow get his other two companions to their feet. Minho flashes an apologetic glance and an extra squeeze to Jisung’s hand at being physically yanked from their little moment. 

Jisung, understanding enough, just laughs at Felix’s drunk antics and motions for them to go ahead. Leaving him at the booth with a drunk Chan who is currently holding some “deep” conversation with a very tipsy Hyunjin. Seems Chan’s dad-like charms had gotten the princely boy to open up to him. This night had definitely ended up different than Jisung had first though but he'd be lying to say he wasn’t enjoying all of it.

“Han Jisung.”

Jisung looked up to find Sweet Lotus’s owner giving him an inviting expression. He couldn’t lie that Momo did not scare him a little. But he would say that if anything he just respectfully found her to be intimidating. 

“Oh hai.” Jisung tried his best to sober up and put on a friendly face. 

“Would you come with me for a moment?” Jisung nodded and got up from their table following the woman to a somewhat quieter area of the clubs open concept near some standing tables.

“So. I��m happy to see you are what's keeping my Lino so busy.” Her friendly smile grew wide.

“What me? No Minho has just been working hard on his other job. He also has auditions and dance and everything.” 

“Hmmm, I don't know. Minho has always had a lot on his plate, but I’ve never seen him actually look this happy.” 

“Really?” Jisung had never really considered how much Minho could have changed because of him. He didn't know much of Minho’s past. Before they had talked he was simply the nice attractive waiter he had given his number to. 

Jisung’s shock was clearly evident on his face, and Momo’s eyes softened at the confused, small, and slightly tipsy boy in front of her.

“Really I mean it, and if anyone would know it's me.” Jisung relaxed visibly, but still held on to  his apprehension. 

“Jisung, I know you're a good kid. Sana’s told me a lot about you boys and she really swears by it. That you're something special, and I can see it too.” Jisung’s heart lifted in his chest a little with pride for his group. But Momo’s expression remained serious. 

“But to me, Minho is truly something special, and I feel like you already know that”

“I knew immediately.” He nodded aggressively, and spoke freely with his filters gone due to the alcohol. Momo giggled at Jisung’s honesty.

“You're such a sweetheart Jisung, but I want to give you some advice about Minho.”

Jisung nodded enthusiastically.

“Minho may be the shining gem he seems to be, but he's also fragile. He's not always as confident as he appears, and can be really stubborn.” 

Momo’s expression grew somber for a moment before continuing, “What I’m trying to say is look out for him. Please. He’s placed a lot of faith in you already. So be sure to take care of him, and don't let him push you away. He's a fool with his emotions, especially when he's scared.”

Jisung could feel the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders, but it was a weight he wanted to be worthy of bearing for Minho.

“I’m trusting you here Jisung-ah, Minho stopped letting me take care of him a long time ago, and I'm afraid he's been on his own for longer than he should to be. I would love to see you continue to make him happy.” Momo’s smile was full of fondness now, but something about it was still slightly somber.

Jisung didn't want to let her trust in him go to waste. “I always want to be by Minho-hyung’s side, I promise to do my best Momo-ssi” 

Momo laughs with her slightly disarming giggles, her expression visibly relaxing back into a friendly smile. “Sana’s right you really don’t know how powerful you are.” 

“What do you mean?” Jisung was confused at the sudden change in conversation but he found Momo’s change in demeanor to be comforting that she believed in him, at least a little bit, to heed her warnings. 

“She means you're too cute for your own good.” Minho voiced from just behind Jisung, making his head turn quick enough to catch Minho draping his arm around the younger’s shoulders.

“Noona are you done terrorizing my Sungie now?”

“I would never! Right Jisung~” Momo winked her eyes playfully in response.

Jisung tried his best to cover up his confusion, and flashed his most convincing innocent puppy dog eyes, “Yeah hyung we were just talking.” 

“About me I hope.” Minho giggled at them both, only slurring his words slightly. Turning his head toward Jisung, leaving barely two inches between their faces. But alcohol has a funny way of erasing their usual personal boundaries.

“Well I'm stealing you away now, less talky and more dancy for the birthday boy.” Minho giggled more and Jisung felt his heart leap in response, as he moved the two of them toward the dance floor.

“Have fun boys~” Momo waved and watched them disappear into the crowd with a hopeful smile on her face.

---

The night progressed full of dancing, longing stares, and being too close to each other for it to be considered friendly. Eventually the pair’s roommates had headed home or disappeared off for the night, leaving Minho and Jisung alone in the pink neon lights of the Sweet Lotus. Jisung’s night out had been everything he could’ve hoped for and more. It took more effort than either of them would like to admit to let go of each other's hand once they had to depart for the night. 

Almost every part of Jisung was screaming for him to not let the other leave, and that he should stay. But both of them knew that the morning would just bring them more work, that sadly didn't leave room for long morning’s together. 

But If Jisung was only able to let go of Minho’s hand after the older had to let it go in order to cup his cheek instead, and give him with a gentle kiss goodnight, that was between the two of them as far as Jisung was concerned. And if Jisung went to bed smiling like a fool with red cheeks and red lips then that was for only him to know. And if Minho’s smile mirrored Jisung’s while he stayed up thinking about pink lights and heart shaped smiles, then that was only his to know. 

-----

Thank you for reading ily <3

one ~ two ~ three ~ four ~ five ~ six ~ seven ~ eight ~ nine

#skz fics #stray kids au #stray kids fic #stray kids #minsung #han jisung #lee minho #leeknow #skz leeknow #skz han

[ladykeane]

something angsty or hurt/comforty about bertie missing his parents and reg comforting him?

Filled below! (Will post this on AO3 at length, tonight its interface is being a butt)

I do feel justified in declaring Bertram to be a singularly courageous soul, despite the detractions of some of his peers. Not only because of the aid he provides to friends (and even strangers) in need, or his unswerving devotion to his beloved ‘Code of the Woosters’. Bertram is brave because he dares to be cheerful in a world that can be oppressively bleak.

This is precisely why I was so affected to come home one dark January day, to find him slumped on the carpet of our unlit sitting room, listening to an album of vintage novelty songs, and crying his poor dear eyes out.

My fiance, Bertram Wilberforce Wooster, has proven to be a constant source of inspiration. There has been many a grey weekday morning that I have dreaded the prospect of leaving our bed, to face the bustle of London and the onerous task of placating my legal clients, who can often be disagreeable and demanding. Bertram blesses me with his bright blue gaze and sweet rosy smile, and his natural buoyancy quickly uplifts me. I am able to approach the day in a lighter mood, and with a strengthened resolve. This is one of the many ways in which he makes me into a better version of myself. Despite our occasional squabbles and his sometimes imperfect domestic habits, I am elevated and improved by the love we share.

He has inspired me again in the writing of this prose. His blog is a source of entertainment for many, and I am proud of his accomplishment. This composition may prove much less whimsical, and will certainly not be fit for public consumption. I confess I lack Bertram’s bravery to share my innermost thoughts with the digital multitudes. 

And I do feel justified in declaring Bertram to be a singularly courageous soul, despite the detractions of some of his peers. Not only because of the aid he provides to friends (and even strangers) in need, or his unswerving devotion to his beloved ‘Code of the Woosters’. Bertram is brave because he dares to be cheerful in a world that can be oppressively bleak.

This is precisely why I was so affected to come home one dark January day, to find him slumped on the carpet of our unlit sitting room, listening to an album of vintage novelty songs, and crying his poor dear eyes out.

Bertram always takes to the festivities around Christmas and New Years’ with an almost manic enthusiasm. This is unsurprising, but in the years we have celebrated the yuletide together, I have often detected a vague sort of wistfulness arise in him. Even this Christmas just past, which was exalted by his marriage proposal to me, saw him a tad doleful during quieter moments.

I have often suspected the reason for this anomaly in his character. I have never dared to interrogate him about it, lest I worsen the wound.However, seeing my songbird in such keen despair finally spurred me to address the matter.

I sat down beside him, my actions slow, so as not to startle him. He did not flinch as I carefully wrapped my arms about his wilted frame. He buried his wet face in my collar, and I stroked his back gently as he heaved with sobs. His misery flooded its way into me, and I burned with it. My hand found its way into his soft curls, cradling his precious head.

I listened to the music playing. A jazz band tootled away, over which a pleasant light baritone crooned:

‘Everybody loves my baby

But my baby don't love nobody but me

Yes, everybody wants my baby

but my baby don't want nobody but me

that's plain to see!...’

It was not hard to discern that the voice belonged to Bertram’s late father.The song eventually came to an end with a blare of horns, and the vinyl crackled and fell silent.

Bertram rose, tearing away from my embrace. ‘Ah. Awfully sorry about that, Reg,’ he said shakily, and flicked on the light. His eyes were painfully red and puffy. His sorrow was not disguised by the hardy little smile he managed for me.

He began striding towards the kitchen, ostensibly to start dinner or put on the kettle. I could see him struggling to conjure his prized stiff upper lip. I was stung; I did not want my future husband to believe that he required such a mask in my presence.

‘Bertram… you have no need to apologise to me. It is alright to feel what you feel.’He stopped in the doorway, and slackened a little. ‘I suppose. It’s just… this time of year, you know. Makes it harder not to miss them.’

I arose to meet him, my hand caressing his shoulder once more. ‘Please allow me. Darjeeling, my angel?’

***

We agreed upon a dinner of take-away, and afterwards enjoyed a drowsy snuggle on the sofa. It grew late; Bertram went to change into his pajamas, and I began clearing up the sitting room, quite unhurried. 

The novelty jazz album still sat upon the turntable, and I reverently slid it back into its sleeve. The cover gave me pause, the bright blue gaze of the late Mr Wooster was unmistakable. I know the man had been a music teacher at Dulwich College in life, and an accomplished musician like his son. According to the accounts of his sister Mrs Travers, he had also the same sunny, kind-hearted temperament.

‘It was thirteen years, today, don’t you know. An icy road and a drunk driver. I’ve never even visited their graves, if you can believe it. Just couldn’t bring myself.’

He stood in the bedroom doorway, a look of glass on his face. ‘The last day I ever spent with them was New Years’. Got packed off back to Eton, after that. You know the last thing I ever said to my mother? “Don’t forget to send on my iPod.” Over the phone. I still kick myself for that.’We locked eyes. ‘One of the biggest regrets is that they’ll never get to meet you, Reg…’

He began to crumble again, and I rushed to his arms. I imagined my love, a stricken adolescent boy, being delivered the news by a laconic house master. Being dragged home for a dual funeral, being shunted about by busy relatives lost in their own grief. That monstrous Mrs Gregson chiding him for his unmanly snivelling, and even the sympathetic Mrs Travers encouraging him to bear up and stay strong. How often had that boy ever had a chance to properly grieve for himself?

Framing the distraught, beautiful tear-strewn face between my hands, I pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead.As a solicitor, I well know that advisory words seldom assist in mitigating such clean, sharp-edged mourning. I have often tasked my clients to report upon some of their greatest personal traumas: divorce, bereavement, the falling out of relationships. When lost in the midst of their pain, I cannot reach them with talk of practical solutions. All I could do now was hold my Bertram, and ride out the tempest with him.

At length his crying abated, and I was able to draw him into bed. I encased him in my arms and he buried himself in my chest. Gradually our pulses fell into rhythm, and Morpheus mercifully numbed us both.

When I awoke the next morning, I was met with a bright blue gaze, and a rosy, if slightly muted, sweet smile.‘What sort of day is it, Reg?’I checked the forecast on my phone. ‘Clear and sunny, with a projected top of 14 degrees, and a light breeze to the South-West.’‘I say, that’s jolly good weather for this time of year.’‘Positively clement, Bertram.’‘What do you say we traipse down to Dulwich Park today? Grab a spot of lunch?’

I examined him. That park had been the place of his childhood gambols, a place he had not visited since his parents had died.‘Do you feel up to it?’ I asked delicately. 

He huffed into the pillowcase. ‘Well… it’s been such a long time, and it really is a nice little spot, packed with joyful memories… I should love to show you the old oak that I always loved to climb. One time I dragged Angela up there too. She nearly screamed my ear off that it was too high, until I pointed out that you could just glimpse Tower Bridge from the highest branch. Then there’s the little copse by the West Lawn, where Father and I once had a run-in with a miniature grizzly hedgehog. Spunky little thing, he was…’

It stayed sunny for the entire day.

#jeeves and wooster #fanfiction #prompt filled #jooster #bertie's blog #reginald jeeves #bertie wooster #hurt/comfort

[voltage-vixen]

Giving a Christmas present----MK

Christmas Countdown--- Day 21

“Was renting out the entire building really necessary?” Yuzuru muttered, while questioning his outlandish friend.

During one of their usual meetups, Kei suggested that the three of them gift MC  presents this year for Christmas. Immediately on board with the idea, Kazuomi placed a few calls, and the trio soon found themselves being transported via limo to the nearby mall. The mall that Kazuomi had decided to have shut down for the day, allowing the three friends to have their own private shopping session.

“I’m just the interim owner for today,” Kazoumi smoothly replied, “I wanted to ensure that we would have all the time in the world to select the perfect gift for our dearest MC.”

“Being gloomy doesn’t suit you Yuzuru,” Kei gleefully chimed in, “Let’s do our best and make sure we find the best present possible for MC.”

Yuzuru trailed behind the others and watched as they strolled through each of the individual stores. He browsed around the different outlets, until he saw a store that particularly interested him. Wearing a barely noticeable smile, Yuzuru proceeded on his own search to find his own present for MC.

About an hour later, the three met back up outside the front of the building, and they climbed into the limo to making their way to Raven Hills.

Little did they know, that there was a man watching their every move from afar……..

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“What’s the occasion gentlemen?” MC questioned the infamous trio, as Kei handed her a glass of champagne.

Kazuomi called and invited her to Masquerade, and her curiosity had gotten the best of her. The atmosphere in the restaurant was festive, and she was relishing in the live performance from the orchestra playing various Christmas tunes.

“Perhaps we’re just fond of your company MC,” Kazuomi expressed. He placed a gold wrapped box onto the table, followed suit by Kei and Yuzuru placing their own gifts in front of MC.

“What Kazuomi is trying to say, is that we wanted to celebrate an early Christmas with you,” Kei proudly informed.

MC first glanced at the presents, then back at the group of men. She smiled as she reached for the gift in front of Yuzuru, but Kazuomi had another idea, and shoved his present into her hands.

“Open my mine first,” he demanded with a slight pout.

MC giggled at his childlike behavior, and rolled her eyes, while tearing away the wrapping paper of his gift. She gasped when she opened the box, to see a pair of beautiful diamond earrings.

“Kazuomi,” MC breathed, “These are beautiful.”

Kazuomi gestured to the box, and MC grabbed the box to find a well-designed coupon she could tell was professionally made.

“Reedem this for one night of mind-blowing……..I’m not finishing that sentence,” MC sighed.

Ignoring Kazuomi’s smirk, she reached out for Yuzuru’s, and the IT genius watched in silence while she made way with the paper.

“Yuzuru, is this one of those fit bits?” MC asked, adjusting the band to fit her wrist.

He simply nodded and leaned over to help MC find the perfect fit of the tracking bracelet, taking a few moments to admire the look on her.

“Thank you Yuzuru,” MC praised, before carefully placing his present back in the box.

“I figured this would be good for your training,” he quietly stated.

Good ole’ Yuzuru was as practical as ever.

She nodded her appreciation, before finally opening Kei’s present.

“Way to save the best for last MC,” Kei beamed, “I found the supplies and made it myself. Hopefully you find this acceptable.

“Kei, your gift is lovely!” MC reassured, while marveling at his unique offering.

Kei had pressed a flower bouquet together, and MC could still smell the flower’s natural scents. The diplomat was pleased with her reaction, and he snapped a discreet picture of MC on his phone.

Although they were at times whimsical, MC appreciated their thoughtfulness to include her in their gift recipients. She expressed her gratitude to them again, and then excused herself to the restroom.

On her way there, MC felt someone bump into her shoulder. Annoyed by this stranger’s rudeness, she was about to confront them, but her jaw dropped when she saw the recognizable face.

“Boss! What are you doing here?”

Boss held a single finger up to her lips to silence her.

“I couldn’t let someone else outdo me when it comes to my favorite agent. Check your purse,” the mysterious man huffed, before disappearing into the crowd.

Boss watched MC rummage through her purse, and he saw her grab the tiny gift bag that was slipped inside when he intentionally bumped into her. For you see, he was the one that had been watching Kazuomi, Yuzuru, and Kei at the mall that day. Boss refused to let them steal MC away from him.

She brought a hand over her mouth, and the look of adoration radiating from her eyes, confirmed the satisfaction Boss had been hoping to deliver.

With one final gaze of contentment, Boss took his leave, secretly looking forward to the next work day where he would get to see MC again.

L365 Masterlist

@agustd54, @joanneshiba

#masquerade kiss #kazuomi shido #yuzuru shiba #kei soejima #christmas countdown #voltage fanfic #mk fanfic #voltage inc #love 365 find your story #voltage fandom #day 21 #sorry this is late!

[sartorialadventure]

"At the core of it, we wanted the film to be a celebration of Arabic culture," says Michael Wilkinson, who's designed costumes for an expansive range of films, from two decades of suburban chic in Jennifer Lawrence's "Joy" to iconic superheroes in "Justice League" and "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice."

For authenticity, the Oscar-nominee heavily researched clothing, art and sculpture of the Middle East region and imagery throughout the centuries from The Book of One Thousand and One Nights (The Arabian Nights), which includes the original printed tale of the titular character. Since — quick Disney geography lesson — the fictional port city of Agrabah is located on the Silk Road, where the East and West meet to trade, the costume designer also studied references from Africa, Turkey and Pakistan.

Of course, Wilkinson, who worked closely with production designer (and "Game of Thrones" vet) Gemma Jackson, also wanted to honor the fantasy and magic of the beloved cartoon, too. Luckily, the goal allowed for even more creative license. "When you take animation into live action, you can really add so much more detail," he explains. "It's a chance to literally give them more depth, so you can use the costumes to really tell the audience more about the characters and their backgrounds, backstory and inner world."

So, the empowered, but sheltered Princess Jasmine enjoys the privilege of over 10 outfit changes this time around. Slightly different from the more Arabesque-influenced women in court (and town), her silks, silhouettes, paisley prints and ornate gold beading and embroidery are inspired by South Asia to honor her mother's heritage from the also-fictional kingdom of Shehrabad (and speak to Scott, herself, who's of Indian descent).

"We wanted to express this real sense of strength and intelligence and self-determination," explains Wilkinson. "We gave her very strong colors and a bold personal style to reflect her confidence and her forthright nature." After all, Jasmine is more than capable and qualified to run Agrabah, but is held back by the men in power: her overprotective Sultan dad (Navid Negahban) and his top adviser "Hot Jafar" (Marwan Kenzari).

"Her character is trapped and she wants to break free," he continues. "We wanted to get this sense of formality and traditional world that she's fighting against, so she has her own little quirks." Wilkinson points to the iconic blue silk trousers, which peek out from her long formal gowns and allow her to physically demonstrate her determination when she walks. "She wants to move through the world and be more effective than just a royal ornament of the court," Wilkinson says.

A consistent "peacock motif" is seen throughout her jewelry and clothing, notably, elaborate beadwork on her veil accenting the update of her blue (and more modest) top and trousers. "A good metaphor [for Jasmine] is a peacock [trapped] in a royal garden — a beautiful rarefied world — that wants to be a free spirit," Wilkinson explains. The majestic bird is also symbolic in the Middle East and South Asia, plus the color palette coincidentally match Jasmine's signature hues.

Aladdin, however, mainly wears just two outfits, similar to the animated version. But Wilkinson infused his initial "street rat" look with some street style "swagger" to subconsciously resonate with today's audiences. (Unlike his cartoon counterpart, this Aladdin does wear a shirt: an embroidered and Arabesque band-collared linen design, with linear prints inspired by a contemporary pinstripe fabric that caught Wilkinson's eye.)

Director Guy Ritchie wanted a "modern" take on Aladdin's sirwal pants, so Wilkinson looked to current menswear trends to design the drop-crotch linen trousers with a slimmer cut in the lower leg and oversize double-pleats (which actually look similar to ones just debuted by Rihanna's debut Fenty collection. Nice.). He also added a hood to Aladdin's now-red vest, garnished with Moroccan-style embroidery, for a slight streetwear vibe. To accommodate Aladdin's parkour-ing around the bazaar and running along rooftops, the designer turned traditional upturned and pointy toe slippers into sturdier custom-designed ankle boots with wrap-around laces.

"It's a mashup of the two worlds," says Wilkinson.

Of course, Aladdin eventually has his Prince Ali makeover, thanks to the Genie. He enters the gates of Agrabah wearing copious layers of ivory and gold, including a magnificent long cape with screen-printed and embroidered ornamentation and an almost oversized turban complete with a massive brooch of fluttering ostrich feathers — all which feel a bit extra for a reason.

"There was the moment of Aladdin looking very over the top and uncomfortable in his new finery," says Wilkinson. As he connects with Jasmine, he loses the awkward layers and pares down to a streamlined silk shirt and longline vest intricately detailed with "beautiful metal hardware" and gilded embroidery.

"He ends up looking very dashing by the time he's on the magic carpet," adds Wilkinson.

As for the Genie, he actually spends a chunk of the movie in human form and enjoys experimenting with his lewks, as humans are wont to do. "He's such a mercurial and whimsical character," explains Wilkinson, who sourced fabrics from India, the Middle East, Turkey and Morocco for the character's "magical" wardrobe evolution. "Each time we see him, he's worked on his look and adjusted it a little bit and made it more over the top." Hence, different turbans, new shirts, an extra vest with various levels of bedazzling or more voluminous genie pants that are "outlandish than the last."

Scheming, power hungry Jafar's silhouettes and "sumptuous" red, black and gold palette come straight from the animated movie. But the armor-like plates and chainmail detail in his imposing robes speak to his nefarious ambitions for Agrabah. "What we wanted to do with him is hint at a military background," explains Wilkinson, about the hardware. "He has military ambitions and wants to turn Agrabah into a military state."

Unsurprisingly, designing the plethora of costumes for the spectacular "Prince Ali" musical sequence, which includes 250 dancers and 200 extras, was more than an endeavor — especially since the director's notes left, erm, a bit to interpretation. "In the script, it just says one line: 'Prince Ali's procession enters the town,'" laughs Wilkinson. "So that's what we were given as our starting point."

The designer and his team custom designed over 200 original costumes for the extras alone. "It was like designing Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or the Notting Hill Festival here in London," he says. "We sourced fabric from all over the world, we created fabrics, we had a huge team of costumers to make the costumes, make the headwear, make the jewelry, make the shoes. It was really a mammoth effort."

But, completing that feat wasn't Wilkinson's favorite part of the job. "I have to say, a career highlight was designing and making a monkey costume," he laughs, about dressing Aladdin's trusty (but very kleptomaniac) sidekick Abu (above), who's actually all CGI. Like Judianna Makovsky did for Baby Groot in "Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 2," Wilkinson and his team worked off a maquette, with the same dimensions of the diminutive Capuchin monkey, to later be inserted by special effects into the film.

"We created a tiny little fez and tiny little waistcoat and that we put all sorts of braids, sequins and hand-embroideries onto," Wilkinson continues. "It's actually one of my favorite pieces we created for the film."

#fashion #disney #aladdin #costumes #costuming