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robininthelabyrinth · 2 years

Note

Jin Guangshan dies pre series in a tragic who fking cares, so when Meng Yao comes to Carp Tower, instead of getting kicked down the stairs, he meets his very tired half brother who could really use an accountant who knows what he's doing.

ao3

Modern AU

When Meng Yao arrived at Jinlin Tower for the first time and stared up that giant menacing staircase, he reminded himself to keep his expectations minimal.

This wasn’t going to be some fairytale where his biological father greeted him with open arms, took him in and apologized for having taken so long, recognized his merit and gave him his due – no matter how many stories his mother had spun to him when he was small, it just wasn’t going to happen. It wasn’t ancient times, when his father might genuinely have not known about his existence. On the contrary, his mother had revealed his existence early on when she’d petitioned the courts for child support, and been summarily and brutally crushed by the Jin clan’s mammoth battalion of lawyers.

His mother persisted in thinking that it was his father’s wife, Madame Jin, who had done it, pointing to all the tabloids that said that Jin Guangshan was notoriously terrified of her, but Meng Yao wasn’t convinced. Sure, all the tabloids talked about how he flinched away from her temper tantrums – but in the end, pictures of him playing around with women of all sorts continued to make their way into the public on a seasonal basis, time and time again, and no matter how much Madame Jin yelled, she hadn’t managed to stop him yet. If he wanted to do something, clearly he could make it happen, and that meant little things like paying child support or keeping them from destitution wasn’t something he wanted.

So, no. Meng Yao wasn’t expecting a miracle.

He was, however, hoping for a job. He’d stared at himself in the mirror for hours, talking himself up in preparation to even send in the application – he needed a good job if he wanted to pay for his mother’s medical bills, and, after that, to make sure his mother had a proper retirement after years of practically breaking her back to try to take care of him. And while he was confident in his abilities, having done the books and, later, the management for his mother’s brothel for years and years, the simple fact of it was that he lacked any formal credentials or education.

If he wanted to get his foot in the door, Jinlin Tower was probably his own chance.

So he'd reached out, subtly mentioning the relationship, and they’d agreed to give him an interview.

Sisi, who was still at the brothel, told him that the interview might be a trap, that they might just want him to come in so that they could force him to sign away his claims to the Jin estate, then throw him out the door once they were done with him. It wasn’t that Meng Yao didn’t agree that that was a risk, but he’d taken a hard look at his finances and their medical bills – and, yes, his ambitions to be more than the manager of a set of illegal brothels on behalf of some two-bit gangsters – and decided to take a leap of faith.

And now he was here.

He walked up the stairs, then through the doors. Up the elevator. To the main office…

“Hi!” a harried looking young man said energetically, leaping up and grabbing Meng Yao’s hands. “They told me that you said you have management experience?”

“Uh,” Meng Yao said, and then years of customer service took over and his face slid into a calm, polite smile. “Yes, that’s correct. I sent my resume along as well, but I’ve brought some copies if that would be helpful.”

“That’s amazing,” the young man said, staring at his face. “The way you just – did that. With your face. Just…wow. I can’t do that. When can you start?”

Meng Yao’s customer service face was good, but not perfect: he stared. “Start what? Who even are you?”

“Who am – oh! Sorry, I’m so sorry – I’m Jin Zixuan.”

Jin Zixuan.

The only legitimate heir of Jinlin Tower, the only recognized son, Madame Jin’s son. Meng Yao had seen pictures of him in the tabloids, too; he was ranked number three on the list of most desirable young bachelors, a perennial target for the paparazzi. And yet this young man looked nothing like the flashy, well-put together, aloof and arrogant young man in those pictures – he looked tired, and frazzled, and like he’d been working way too hard. No stylist had touched his hair, currently pulled up into the simplest possible style, and there wasn’t a hint of make-up on his face…he looked like he hadn’t slept in days.

“Okay,” Meng Yao said. “And you want me to do – what exactly?”

“Work here! With me!” Jin Zixuan looked hopefully at him. “I need all the help I can get, to be perfectly honest. Unfortunately I’m not allowed to let anyone who isn’t family into the boardroom – and I don’t trust half of the ones that can qualify, anyway! You came at the exact right time, you have no idea…”

He trailed off, staring at Meng Yao with wide eyes.

Possibly because Meng Yao was gawking at him.

“Oh no,” Jin Zixuan said in a small voice. “Did no one tell you?”

“Tell me what?”

“Our father,” Jin Zixuan said. “He – died. Just recently.”

Meng Yao had not heard.

He didn’t quite know how he felt about that, to be honest. His only memories of the man were seeing him on television or in the tabloids – he’d never got a chance to meet him. But he had read the transcripts of his mother’s attempt to establish his paternity, and it hadn’t exactly left him with the best taste in his mouth about him. He’d only come here because he’d been desperate…

“I see,” he said, deciding to deal with the question of emotions later. “And you need people with management insurance and the right bloodline?”

“You’ll need to take a DNA test for the latter – you have no idea how much I hate the Lanling Jin bylaws – but yes, that’s about right,” Jin Zixuan said. “Right now it’s just me and my cousin, Jin Zixun, and in his case I’m kind of hoping that he’s working with some of our corporate rivals to take us down from the inside because the only other explanation is that he’s really that incompetent and honestly I don’t wish that on my worst enemy…it’s not good, let met put it this way. There’s a huge mess we need to clean up. I wouldn’t blame you if you don’t want to get into it, to be honest – if you don’t, just say the word and I’ll send you down to whatever department you like for a regular job. It’s probably the least I can do, given that I’m sure you never got child support – he never paid child support for anyof them – ”

“I’ll help,” Meng Yao said, and Jin Zixuan turned surprised eyes on him. “I don’t know why you trust me to, but I’ll help.”

“I don’t trust you,” Jin Zixuan said bluntly. “I’m just desperate. You’re going to be watched like a hawk, and if you take one step out of line, I’ll feed you to our legal department.”

At least he wasn’t stupid, Meng Yao reflected, and smiled.

“I’d be happy to help,” he said, and he might even mean it. “Let’s talk business, shall we?”

#mdzs #meng yao #jin guangyao #jin zixuan #my fic #my fics #I don't really like modern aus that much but it was the only way this one worked in my head

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askyourwritergrandma · 2 years

Text

Character Studies

Perhaps one of the only tools introduced to me via a traditional writing class that I whole-heartedly recommend consistently is the character study. If you’ve been on the writing-community internet for longer than 10 minutes, you will undoubtedly come across a character questionnaire or a less formal post that offers you hard questions to ask about your character. These things have a place in the writing process and they are genuinely helpful to some people. But today, lets talk about a different kind of character tool.

No matter how much knowledge you amass about your character in theory, until you have written them, you simply do not know how to write them. Even if you know they have blue eyes and a deep love of cream cheese, you still have decide how those things influence their personality, their ability to carry a narrative and their general interactions with the world.

Or I mean, you could just write: “Gerry, the blue-eyed cream cheese lover, was known to stalk the dairy aisle between the hours of six and eight am waiting for the stock boy to bring out the new packages of sweet, sweet nirvana.”

This could be the start of a valid story about one man’s quest to find the freshest cream cheese and his inevitable descent into a life of madness and crime. Or this could be utter nonsense because as you continue writing about Gerry and his obsessive need for cream cheese, you discover that he’s being mind controlled by Emperor Lavinia the 3rd whose only food source on our planet is cream cheese.

Did you know about Emperor Lavinia the 3rd before you started writing? I did not. She’s new and possibly a symptom of mental illness but we can decide that later after we finish dealing with Gerry.

Writing your character for the first time, regardless of whether you’re a pantser or a planner, is a daunting task. If you’re trying to write your character (original or borrowed) for the first time while introducing a story it will make your life harder. This is where the character study comes in.

So how to use a character study?

You pick a scene for your character to interact with. Usually this is something run of the mill or basic. No need to have them fighting off an invasion of frog people, unless you want them to. (My own chosen scene is somewhat unconventional so I won’t suggest it.)

You then write your character into this scene with an emphasis on figuring out their mood/mental state/personality.

How do they react to things? What do they think of every day things? And not in the character questionnaire way where you are just assigning values to those answers, but in narrative how do you write about their aversion to blue-colored things? How strongly do they react to it? How hatefully? Are they polite? Do they throw temper tantrums next to piles of blueberries?

Repeat this process, if necessary, with any other characters.

For me, character studies are like clearing out the cobwebs and figuring out what to focus on. The first time I write anything, a character, an idea, a scene, what have you, I overwrite because I’m still figuring out how to present it to an audience. Character studies are a playground, just for me, to work out what its important and what isn’t.

I hope this brief, rambling bit of advice helps someone!

#writing characters #writing advice #writblr

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angelictrl · 3 years

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Hey! Glad to see a new obey me blog! For a request maybe the brothers and Simeon, Luke, Diavolo, and Barbatos react to a GN!MC who practices witchcraft but also Hellenic Polytheism (someone who worships and works with the Greek deities). If this is something you need help on like explaining wise Just shoot me a message!

DEMON BROS + UNDATEABLES WITH AN MC WHO PRACTICES WITCHCRAFT & HELLENIC POLYTHEISM.

i said i'd post tmrw but ig i lied bc i had a spontaneous burst of energy and felt bad promising i'd do this req earlier </3 also added solomon anyways since i felt bad leaving the local bastard man out 😞

LUCIFER

great, now we got two shady, magic-using humans running around the devildom.

all worries aside, it's probably for the better that you know/practice witchcraft so that you can protect yourself better here in the devildom.

just don't go pulling any pranks or he'll lecture you for five hours straight 🙄

on the other hand, i don't really think he cares about your religion - y'know, as long as you aren't worshipping his father, because then he'll be "a bit" salty.

probably met a few greek gods while he was an angel + hades a couple times during meetings before and after he came to the devildom so he's chill with your religion.

MAMMON

at first, he was on the verge of throwing a temper tantrum.

this human can take care of themself! why does he have to babysit them?!

not to mention he was lowkey scared hearing you did witchcraft because he didn't need another witch on his ass

once he warms up to you though, you guys go on all sorts of magical shenanigans together (like canonically anw lol).

you save his ass several times with your magic and although he won't say it aloud, he's eternally grateful you've helped him hide 60% of his schemes from luci.

when he hears about your religion, his first immediate reaction was to incorporate it into his schemes.

specifically, he'll ask you to do rituals and/or give offerings to his good ol' friend, hermes the greek gods on days he goes out gambling so he can have extra luck.

basically all around neutral about it <3

prolly snags you stuff from time to time that have to do with witchcraft or seem like good offerings.

LEVIATHAN

another one that'll ask you to do rituals/give offerings for good luck. he can't win those limited edition ruri-chan & luminous-chan figurines 100% all the time.

sometimes will join you in hopes to double his chances LMAO

as for witchcraft, i think he'd be glad you can protect yourself when it comes down to it.

he's happy to protect you and be your lord of shadows, of course, but he admires you for being so brave to find ways to ward off other demons by yourself.

"lolol look at this normie beating your ass with their magic! oh shit - henry, you can't fling them against the wall like that! this isn't harrison porter!!"

radiates "best friend, show 'em your moves" vibes 💀💀💀

SATAN

finally, a worthy comrade.

you two most likely instantly hit it off and he's more than happy to teach you any spell you want to know as long as you teach him stuff from the human world in return.

his brothers mainly lucifer always become test subjects for you two willingly or not.

doesn't mean you guys are getting off the hook that easily when something goes down.

be the voice of reason and spare lucifer, please.

always lends you wiccan/spell books and other similar works that remind him of you all the time.

magic lessons with satan & solomon!

now about your religion, he's intrigued.

he's never met any of the greek gods unlike his brothers, so he'll definitely read up on them to understand your practices more.

sometimes joins you in your rituals and it may or may not have become a habit.

it's all for scientific research - he swears.

ASMODEUS

doesn't think much of witchcraft but is glad you're able and at least interested in protecting yourself from nasty lesser demons.

goes out of his way to buy you fashionable accessories that have a witchy/cottagecore vibe to them if you're interested <3

happy overall though because now his two favorite humans get along so well!!!

y'know, as long as you don't leave him out >:(

now, religion time. he'll also bring you items and trinkets to give as offerings to the greek gods as he has nothing against them.

actually kind of has a friendly rivalry with aphrodite, so he's more than happy to chat up with her once in awhile and put in a good word for you.

BEELZEBUB

has no problem with your practices of witchcraft and religion as long as it isn't hurting anyone.

now if the offerings you give are food-related in any way, he might have to back out and politely excuse himself.

he wants to make you happy by joining you in your daily routines, but he's just so hungry and doesn't want to upset you by eating the offering.

so as long as it doesn't have anything to do with food, whether it's edible or not and you have a bunch of food for him too in preparation, he'd be more than ecstatic to join you.

most supportive babie boy <3

BELPHEGOR

depending on your level of experience in witchcraft, the whole attic thing (mainly you dying) could've never happened/been altered.

don't get me wrong - regardless of being the youngest, he's still a very powerful demon - but i think if you were a very experienced witch, you may or may not have had a 50/50 chance or more of holding out against his attack(s) until the brothers came to find you.

anywho, moving on, he's another one that's glad you're able to protect yourself. will sometimes join you and satan in your study sessions, but will fall asleep in your lap like a cat.

loves to have the formerly anti lucifer league prank, well, you guessed it, lucifer.

as for your religion, i'm pretty sure he's very indifferent about it. supports you and is amused, but doesn't really care since it doesn't hurt his feelings in any way?

tldr: please be the voice of reason & spare lucifer p2.

DIAVOLO

great! his two human exchange students can protect themselves!

loves to hear about the history of witchcraft and magic in the human world from you during tea dates or whenever you're over.

will help you whenever you get stuck on a spell and loves to see what you can do.

overall just v supportive and wholesome <3

still, once you're romantically involved, he'll be all for protecting you so that you won't have to think twice about resorting to protecting yourself with magic.

(you wouldn't even get messed with if you're dating the future king of the devildom but anywho)

fully supports you and your religion.

why wouldn't he? it would just be another nice step to take to create peace between the three realms.

totally helps you out with rituals and offerings. even joins in a lot or whenever he has the time.

is totally friends with hades and sees him as a father uncle figure, so be prepared to meet the one and only.

BARBATOS

has a more than fair share of knowledge on witchcraft and is more than happy to talk about it with you.

feels relieved that you're so comfortable here in the devildom and are able to take care of yourself.

once again, is another one who's pretty indifferent.

helps you set up rituals and gifts you offerings/trinkets like asmo.

as long as no harm comes from your practices, he's more than glad to watch you go about your daily routines and even partakes in them with you occasionally.

SIMEON

is also relieved to hear that you have basic knowledge on witchcraft & magic in general.

now he knows the bible condones witchcraft, but as long as you aren't hurting anyone, he doesn't have a problem with it.

mainly suggests you do white magic or at least grey magic, though. bible boy doesn't want you messing with things that could potentially hurt you or backfire, really.

he's more than happy to help you set up rituals and bring you offerings much like barb and asmo.

hell, if you visit purgatory hall often, it could become a daily thing for you two.

another incredibly dedicated and supportive boy <3

SOLOMON

much like satan, you two hit it off almost instantly.

you two visit each other pretty often exchanging knowledge on different spells and rituals.

the two of you are stuck together like mf glue much to the brothers' disappointment.

study dates with a max of four including you, solomon, satan, & occasionally belphie.

your rituals (religion-wise) have grown on him.

michael may or may not be upset but solomon here doesn't care JDKSJSK

always lends you wiccan/spell books and any other items you may need that remind him of you.

basically just a very understanding and supportive relationship <3

LUKE

starts admiring your abilities once he sees them in action (aka you protecting beel and him from luci that one time).

"woAHHH, MC, THAT WAS SO COOL!!"

beside michael & simeon plus lucifer, you're his number one role model.

no matter how small or big of a spell you practice or perform, he's always an awe.

lowkey disappointed he can't play guardian angel, but soon cheers up knowing it's better that you can protect yourself this way.

if you ever need any food-related offerings, he'd be more than happy to bake you some!

as long as beel doesn't sniff it out and get to him first 😰😰

obey me masterlist.

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halloweenbitch2764 · 4 years

Note

Please fulfill my NSFW request. Where the S/O have the innocent and kind personality but doesn't know what sexual intercourse is and Slachers Michael, Jason, Brahms, Harry Wander and Pyramid Head were already together for a long time in a relationship with the S/O, to the point of being frustrated by the S/O not repairing or understanding their approach.

Hi! So I don't write for Harry and Pyramid Head *yet* so I'm gonna throw in some other characters instead 💖

Warnings: Pinches of NSFW

Michael Myers

The least subtle of like, anyone

Will just pick you up and throw you onto the bed once he feels the relationship is far enough for him to make his move

He'll start trying to undress you

Which hella confuses you so you grab his wrists

He stops but doesn't say anything

Just tilts his head

"Um, why are you trying to take my clothes off?"

Is stunned for a minute

You had to know what he was getting at. You were just playing dumb.

But he could tell from the look in your eyes that you were genuinely confused

Since he doesn't talk he'll get frustrated because how is he supposed to explain what he wants?

Ends up making the 👉👌 signal with his hands

You picked up on it because immature kids at school had made the signal all the time and then would laugh

You have to explain to him that you didn't know hardly anything about sex

It would frustrate him a bit but excite him more knowing he would be the one to fill you up and take your virginity

He'd end up helping you ;P

Jason Vorhees

100000000% innocent

Was raised that sex was for marriage

And therefore knows absolutely nothing about it

It wasn't proper to talk about

And he felt horrible for even having such thoughts before you two were married

So he wouldn't know how to ask you for what he wanted

He had figured out that he would try to initiate it after arguing the pros and cons with himself

He'd try to be subtle but would end up making it obvious

He'd guide you to the bedroom and set you on the bed

When you didn't argue he was more confident and slightly surprised

But when his hand rubbed against your crotch you squeezed your legs together to tell him to stop

He'd panic inwardly

"W-What are you doing?"

He'd make grunts and point to the best of his abilities to explain what it was he wanted

It might take a while but eventually you'd catch on

You'd be super flustered like him and explain your situation

He'd feel relieved

At least he wasn't the only inexperienced virgin

It would be a learning experience for both of you

Brahms Heelshire

Did someone say horndog?

Has only learned what sex was from books he's read

So he has a very very very VERY basic concept of what it is

Like, he knows where his dick goes and that's about it

So he's fairly innocent as well save for the harlequin romance novels he's read while in the walls

The least subtle motherfucker besides Michael

Once y'all have been dating long enough for him to think it's time, he'll make his move

He'll pin you to the couch one day and you'll feel his erection rub against your thigh

Which confuses you

And he notices the confused expression on your face

He'll tilt his head as if asking what you were confused about

"What are you doing?"

He's stunned

How do you not understand what he's trying to get at?

Will likely end in him throwing a temper tantrum

Because he's a spoiled brat

And you'll have to calm him down and get him to explain what he was trying to do

Then you'll get flustered and embarrassed because you know close to nothing about sex

It'll definitely be a learning experience for you both

Billy Loomis

A big fucking horndog

If you're lucky he'll wait to make his advances until the second or third week you're dating

I know this says after dating a while but lets face it, it wouldn't be a while with him

But he's a teenage boy

He's got his needs

And that's part of what your job was as his S/O

He'd be confused IMMEDIATELY when you broke the kiss instead of going into a make out session when he was trying to initiate one

He wasn't used to people not picking up on him and not trying to get him into the bedroom

So when you broke the kiss and just vibed watching the horror movie he was confused

But you wouldn't knock him off his game that quick

So he would let his hand rest on your thigh

And then it would move up

And soon enough to your inner thigh

You didn't show any reactions to it really

Not like the ones he was used to receiving

There was *maybe* a slight hint of a blush but it wasn't obvious

Now he's mega confused

So he decides a new approach

He becomes more subtle and flirtatious in both his words and in tone

Annnnnnd nothing

He'd continue trying for the next week or so

Then his frustration would boil and he may or may not end up yelling at you, releasing the stress and confusion of the past week

You'd have to explain to him that you hadn't been taught much of anything about sex and was even less aware of the signals he was giving

He would teach you from there if you wanted to learn~

Thomas Hewitt

Is just as awkward about sex as you are, and only not as innocent because of Hoyt

He only becomes comfortable talking about it once you've been dating for a while

The farthest you'd gone was kisses

You'd never even had a make out session

And his hands never left your waist

And as much as he hated it, it wad starting to annoy him

He figured it wasn't your fault that you were so innocent

But he wondered how you hadn't had any sexual urges by now

Didn't everyone? Or most people at least?

He tried bringing it up subtly and prayed you'd catch on

You didn't

Which left him more annoyed

He was never one to come right out and ask about stuff like that

It wasn't polite as he'd learned from Luda Mae

He'd make advances from then on

He'd move his hands down to your inner thighs and to just below your chest

There was no way you wouldn't catch on

Right...?

Wrong

You figured he was just setting his hands where they were comfortable

As much as he absolutely hated it he'd end up going to Luda Mae for advice for how to approach it

He would be the least pushy (besides Jason) and would end up struggling to figure out how to get you to understand what he wanted

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animeyanderelover · 3 years

Note

Hi dear! Can I ask for yandere headcanons for Ino, Shikamaru,Karin, Mei and Yagura?

I combined this and another request together since they’re basically the same.

Tw: Yandere themes, stalking, possessiveness, delusional thinking, manipulating, blackmailing, threatening, kidnapping, isolation, vicious behavior, violence, killing

Yandere Naruto Hc’s

Ino Yamanaka

🌼Ino would be similar to Sakura. She’s the clingy and delusional Yandere. She thinks her and her darling are perfect together and there’s no way her s/o will be able to go anywhere without her.

🌼Also the manipulative Yandere. Ino can be so charming if she wants to be and how can her darling reject her when she looks so gorgeous and asks so sweetly? Her abilities can be useful in here as well since she might use them on the darling to control them without them realizing it. But just like Sakura she’ll use the ‘Please don’t act like Sasuke’ card on her s/o to guilt trip them. To my huge surprise I can see her as the controlling Yandere. She wants her darling to rely and trust her with everything they do. She wants them to depend on her as much as possible.

🌼Ino doesn’t have the calmest and most patient character and everyone will notice her jealousy. They should better leave her darling alone before Ino snaps and starts throwing a tantrum. She’s truly scary when she’s jealous.

🌼Why killing when her jutsu is so much more effective? She can just control someone with her jutsu and make them screw up big without doing much. Since she has been taught by Tsunade she isn’t all into killing. With her mind controlling jutsu she can cause much more damage.

🌼I think given her charm she’ll be most likely able to go into a relationship with her darling. She doesn’t really like the idea of kidnapping her darling and why do that if a little bit mind controlling is all that is needed? But she would only do that if she confesses to her darling and they reject her or want to break up with her.

🌼Ino would be a really gorgeous and charming girlfriend and it might be able to work out in a more or less “normal” relationship if we put her terrible jealousy and her wish that you depend on her aside. But the moment she’s forced to use her jutsu on you is the moment it gets twisted since she’s able to control you without you even realizing that you’re being controlled. You were just about to break up with her? Suddenly it feels like you fall in love with her all over again. How could you even think about leaving her? She has you wrapped around her fingers when she does this. Don’t get the wrong idea. She wants you to love her without needing to use her powers, but a little push might help, right?

Shikamaru Nara

🦌That’s a hard one to grasp as a Yandere, but let’s see. Shikamaru is the obsessive and aware Yandere. This guy is terrifying smart and knows that his feelings can’t be seen as normal. He might even feel a bit ashamed that he feels that way. He might appear uninterested in his darling when he talks to them, but that’s a lie. He sneaks slyly questions or sentences in to get a reaction from his darling. Their language, way of speaking, movements, behavior, he’ll analyze it all carefully and attentively. This makes him a perfect manipulative one. He doesn’t really want to use that on the s/o, but sometimes he can’t help, but let the one or other sentence in to get the wanted reaction from them. He knows what he has to do and say.

🦌A stalker. This gives him the perfect opportunity to analyze his darling when they’re confronted with other situations and he also knows that if he spends too much time with his darling others might get suspicious. To be honest, stalking them is such a drag, but he has no other choice. I guess after he lost his sensei he might also become the overprotective one, realizing how fast he can lose people in this world.

🦌Shikamaru is pretty chill about his darling interacting with other people. He doesn’t have much of a problem. But he gets jealous when he notices that you show a liking to someone or the other way around, he knows it from the body language and the behavior. If he is stalking them he won’t interfere as long as no one gets too touchy. If he’s with his s/o at that time he reacts passive aggressive towards the other person.

🦌That’s too much of a drag. Shikamaru is very reasonable with the people around his s/o. He’ll rely more on manipulation and might spread some rumors about them or might humiliate them in public with his shadow possession jutsu. To bring this guy to kill someone they would have to attempt to kill his darling and hurt them. Then he’ll get flashbacks from how his sensei died and will come up with a cruel strategy how to get rid of that person.

🦌He’s as mentioned ashamed that he feels like this and will try to avoid this possibility. But if he witnesses his darling getting harmed his overprotectiveness will get the better of him. He’ll use manipulations to bring the s/o “willingly” to stay in their house, telling them that he’s just worried and that he doesn’t want to lose another person precious to him.

🦌Shikamaru is a very chill Yandere as long as he isn’t triggered enough. He tries to not show his Yandere tendencies too much and with him it might be able to have a not too messed up relationship. But don’t underestimate him. His intelligence makes him really dangerous for you and those who managed to anger him enough.

Karin Uzumaki

♦️Karin is the clingy and lovestruck one. You do remember how she acted towards Sasuke and it’s much more worse with her darling. There’s no space left to breathe and she’s absolutely the type to force her affections on her s/o. Cuddles, kisses, holding hands, whatever you can think of. Her darling is in her eyes the most beautiful and amazing person that has ever walked on this planet. Obsessive and more than just obvious with it. The type to steal your clothes and wear them.

♦️Also the overprotective Yandere. She was used and mistreated after all in her past because she’s an Uzumaki and has no intention on ever letting something like this happen to her darling. Delusional, she believes that everything is fine between the two of you and that you are in love with each other. Probably even a small masochistic because do you remember the scene in the fight with Killer B where Sasuke bit her so that he could heal and her reaction to it?

♦️Bad temper! She starts yelling and cursing as soon as someone looks at you. It’s honestly a bit embarrassing for her darling. If someone dares to make a comment about her s/o they need to hold Karin back or else she’ll smack that asshole.

♦️She does have a bad temper and curses at anyone near you, but dogs who bark don’t bite. Most of the time. Karin beats the living shit out of everyone who doesn’t treat you like the perfect being she thinks you are. As long as no one hurts or makes her darling cry that’s enough for her. But god forbid the person who sinned that badly to scratch her darling or make them cry because then Karin will lose it.

♦️It’s not kidnapping. It’s spending time with the love of her life. Karin requires a lot of time with her s/o and if they ignore her or don’t want to spend time with her she’ll see it as a sign that they want to spend time with her. She has the key to your house and will invite herself in whenever she wants too. Don’t ask her how she got it. Trying to escape won’t be from use either, she’ll just sense your chakra and will always find you.

♦️Karin is a terrible Yandere. Not because she’s mean or hurts you, but because she’s so extremely clingy. She mistakes every sign of rejection you show her for the complete opposite. Her jealousy is horrible as well and people will start to avoid you because they don’t want to get yelled at. She steals all of your things and wears them herself. In short she’s annoying.

Shisui Uchiha

🍂Shisui is the aware type of Yandere. He knows that this isn’t really love, but something darker and is ashamed of it. He is the overprotective Yandere. He feels still guilty for letting his friend die back then because he refused to help him and is on a daily base faced with dangerous situations and he swore to himself that he will protect his s/o.

🍂Shisui is also a stalker, choosing to watch from a distance. He’s very sharp in noticing smaller details, making him an obsessive one as well. This guy has also talent for the manipulative type since he can see through the emotional nature of others and is in general a very clever person.

🍂Shisui hates himself for feeling this way and wishes his darling to be happy. With the amount of patience he possesses he can stand a lot of talking and even slight flirting. He only starts feeling jealous when his s/o shows very strongly that they like someone.

🍂Shisui wouldn’t kill if it isn’t needed. Most of the time he can give persons a warning and can discuss the issue more politely with them. If someone won’t stand away from his darling despite the warning he’ll use genjutsu at first and trap them in with their greatest nightmare. He only kills as a last resort when someone exposes himself as a serious threat to his darling or is about to tell everyone about his unhealthy felling for the s/o. Then he sees himself cornered.

🍂He would really, really like to avoid this topic for preferably forever since he would never be able to look at himself properly again when he does this. But here again, if he’s cornered enough and with no other options left he’ll do it. Two possibilities where this might happen are when you’re either attacked and he couldn’t protect you or when you find out about his obsession with you and try to warn his clan and ask for help.

🍂Shisui can be a great boyfriend as long as he isn’t triggered enough. He has a lot of patience and awareness of his feelings mixed together with amazing self control. But he’s also really dangerous. He is respected by his clan and the third Hokage, he possesses strong powers and is really smart what makes a more than deadly mix for those who anger him enough and for you because you won’t be able to escape him. And don’t forget that even though he is really calm and gentle with you that this doesn’t mean you can do whatever you want. He hates punishing you, but he’ll do it if you give him no other option. He’ll use genjutsu on you if he punishes you.

Mei Terumi

🔵Mei is the lovestruck, delusional and obsessive Yandere. She adores her darling a lot and believes that they are the person she has waited for her whole life and this fuels her desire to get to know them better as often and much as possible. This makes her the clingy type as well and the both of you will often be seen doing PDA.

🔵She’s also the manipulative type. Let’s be honest, Mei is beautiful and very witty and charming and also the Mizukage. She has the looks and powers and she can make her darling almost enchanted with her if she wants too.

🔵She’s rather sensitive to the topic of her darling being with other people, but she can hold for a short while on. But she loses her cool rather fastly when someone insults her darling. Then she’ll threaten to kill that person. She misunderstands things often so there’ll be a lot of people who she threatens to kill. Not like anyone would dare to make a move on the Mizukage’s darling.

🔵No villager is dumb enough to harm the s/o so there might not even be a reason for her to kill someone. Her darling is greatly protected by the Shinobi of Kirigakure and Mei herself. If a villager however does harm the s/o there will be harsh and cruel punishments, but she won’t kill as long as the person apologizes and won’t do it again. This is special treatment for villagers. If it’s someone from outside the village then this might turn out really ugly.

🔵Mei won’t kidnap them if they don’t reject her affections or are in danger. She’s someone who likes to show her darling off to the village and who likes it when the both of you are seen together. She loves it when people talk about how happy and great you look together.

🔵Mei is the type to spoil her darling if they behave well and to be honest you should consider yourself as lucky to have her as your girlfriend. She has everything someone could ask for. However, Mei doesn’t fear to manipulate, bribe and blackmail you if she has to since she believes that you are meant to be together. I can see her as someone who would go as far as paying people to attack you so she can step in and save you so you’ll see her as a hero. She really just wants to take care of you. But I think it isn’t necessary to go that far since she already has you hooked up with her charm and wits. It is hard to not fall in love with this woman here.

Yugito Nii

🐅I didn’t see much of her, but I tried my best. She’s the aware type of Yandere. She knows that her feelings aren’t normal and will try to control them. She does have her tailed beast under control, but she can’t be careful enough. Also on the bit stricter side, not terribly, but there are some things she wishes her darling would act to her opinion accordingly on and she will scold them if they don’t act the way she wishes them to.

🐅She’s also the overprotective Yandere. Even though she is now respected by everyone she was hated when she was younger and there might be still some people who hate her and might use her darling as a bait. Also the manipulative Yandere. She’s calm and smart and will manipulate her darling if she’s forced to.

🐅As mentioned rather calm. She’ll let her darling interact with other people and can control her jealousy. But when she realizes that she reaches her limits she will come in and interrupt the interaction. She’ll never admit openly that she’s jealous since she’s a pretty proud person.

🐅It would be rather easy for her to dispose her enemies since she’s a jinchuriki, but that would break all the trust the villagers now have in her. Trust that she worked her ass off for. So she won’t kill unless it’s not a very serious situation where you’re being attacked and the enemy is dead serious about killing her s/o. She isn’t someone who misuses the power given to her unless she faces a strong enemy.

🐅She wouldn’t want to use such methods if there’s a way to avoid it. She would only does it if someone targets her darling. Yugito will most like be able to talk her darling into staying at home in such situations since she knows what she has to say.

🐅Yugito is a proud and wise woman who is sometimes a bit harsh on you, but she also knows that she shouldn’t feel that way and will try to not show her Yandere side too much. She’s also reasonable with you and would never force you to anything unless you’re in danger. And she does have a soft spot for you even though she doesn’t show it too often.

Yagura Karatachi

🐢His Yandere type depends on whether he was at that time under Tobi’s control or not. If not he’s the obsessive, calm and aware one. He knows about his wrong feelings and will try to keep them under control. He is very calm and composed, but can also be very talkative and curious when it comes to his darling and might steal here and there some things from them. I can also see him as the overprotective and clingy type. Kirigakure has this brutal ritual that everyone has to undergo in order to become a genin and became the jinchuriki of the three-tailed at a very young age. He might be able to handle all this, but he isn’t too sure about his darling and will try to stick to their side as long and often as possible.

🐢If he’s being manipulated from Tobi then he’s the obsessive, aware, possessive, manipulative and violent type. He’ll be much more forceful with his obsessive tendencies and will steal whatever he likes from his darling and uses his influence to get all the informations he wants. He still knows that his feelings are wrong, but now he doesn’t care anymore and will just take what he desires. Shamelessly blackmails and threatens his s/o to get them to stay with him and at least pretend to love him or else he’ll kill their closed ones. He’ll be more willing to hurt them both, physically and mentally if they don’t behave. Also the controlling, isolating and removal type. He wants to control his darling’s life and if they anger him he’ll not only make sure that they never see other humans again, no, he’ll also kill everyone they love so he’s their only option left.

🐢If he’s not under Tobi’s control he’ll hold on for a while, but he gets jealous rather fastly and will after some time tell the other person politely to go. If someone mentions his rather childish looks he might have a small outburst since this is a sensitive topic for him. If both of you are in private and you pay attention to something else he might even have a more childish reaction and pout for your attention. If he’s being controlled then it’s unlikely that he has reasons to be jealous since he keeps his darling somewhere locked up, but if they pay attention to something else then he’ll have a scary outburst. They should better pay attention to him if they don’t want to get punished.

🐢Yagura is the Mizukage and holds some power which he will use to ruin someone’s life if the situation calls for it, but only if someone really gave him a reason to. That doesn’t count for the manipulated Yagura. If he finds out that someone searches for his darling which is kept in a safe house that person is as good as dead. Same goes for if his darling loves someone else even if it’s just sibling-like love. His possessiveness of being the only one to own their heart shines through in here.

🐢Yagura tries to hide his Yandere side and since he’s the clingy one and is most of the time near his darling there’s no reason for him to lock them in. Only if he’s needy for their attention and love or if there might be danger he’ll keep his darling trapped in a place. If he’s being controlled then there’s no question that he’ll kidnap the s/o almost instantly after discovering his dark feelings.

🐢It’s kind of obvious that he’s all messed up after put under Tobi’s genjutsu. He’s nothing, but terrifying and will use any means necessary to ensure that you can’t escape his grip. But before that he’s a much more easier Yandere who was much more patient with his darling and far more harmless. He’s not to blame, it’s Tobi’s fault.

Utakata

▪️Utakata is the aware and overprotective Yandere. He knows that these feelings he has for his s/o are dangerous and tries to cover them most of the time up. He experienced some shocking events in the past and believes that his master has betrayed him and since he went rogue he’s constantly hunted by the hunter-nin from Kirigakure so it’s understandable that he’s very overprotective.

▪️Also the possessive and slightly harsh, yet at the same time soft and desperate Yandere. He left his village and everything he ever trusted and believed in was shattered so he grasps almost desperately onto the only thing that this world left him. You. He has problems in acknowledging his strong feelings for his darling and might sometimes be a bit mean to them because of this, but he can also become really gentle and caring if he wants to be. He doesn’t have anyone left anymore so all he really wants is at least one person who he can trust and love.

▪️He’s constantly on the run so there aren’t many chances for him to be jealous. If they do come under people he’s fine with his darling talking to other people since he knows that they won’t stay long anyways. However, if someone gets too close to his darling he does step in. He can come over as quite impolite with his way of speaking and is the type to act passive aggressive.

▪️He has already enough troubles with being hunted down so the last thing he wants to do is killing someone and dealing with all the problems. It isn’t very smart to kill someone because this might lead to the hunting-nin finding him faster and he’s also the type who wants to avoid troubles. He only kills someone if this person attacks his darling and won’t back off.

▪️He needed to kidnap his s/o in order to keep them with him. He didn’t want to do it, but he couldn’t fight his inner desire.

▪️Utakata isn’t the worst one from this list. He has patience with you and knows that he ruined your whole life when forcing you to come with him. He is angry with himself that he feels this way and will sometimes let his frustration out on you, but he apologizes later on and tries to make it up for you. But the circumstances you’re under are pretty bad. You’ll most likely never see your family again and can’t even contact them because the Hunter-nin might find out about it. It’s exhausting to wander from place to place.

Fuu

🐛Fuu is the lovestruck and clingy Yandere. She’s so in love with her darling and sees them as pure beauty. She supports whatever her darling does and believes that whatever they say is right. If someone disagrees with her darling’s opinion this girl won’t stop arguing with the person until they admit that her darling is right. She’s all over her darling and probably one of the biggest fans of PDA.

🐛Also the delusional Yandere. She’s convinced that her darling and her are perfect for each other and that no one else is better for her darling than her.

🐛She gets fastly jealous since she’s needy for her darling’s attention. She’ll clinge desperately onto her darling’s arm and will constantly tug on their sleeves or poke them until they give her attention. If someone makes her darling uncomfortable or gets too touchy with them she’ll interrupt quickly and won’t stop talking about how they shouldn’t do this and that you are already taken and and and.

🐛I honestly can’t see her as someone who would ever attempt to kill someone, she’s way too innocent and social for that. She’s more the type to embarrass the person in public.

🐛She also isn’t the type to kidnap. She’s basically glued to her darling’s side 24/7 so there’s no need to kidnap them. The closest that gets to kidnapping when she forces her darling to let her spend the night in her house for a pyjama party.

🐛Fuu is a pretty innocent bean and a very tame Yandere. You can easily manipulate her since she’s almost blinded by her love for you. Would never harm you or manipulate you. The only thing annoying in here is her constant need for attention and that she smothers you in affection.

🎇Does anyone even remember him? He was so briefly introduced, but for some reason popped in my head up whilst I was doing this so I decided to put him in. C is the aware and strict type of Yandere. He knows that his feelings are completely wrong and was at the beginning annoyed by this because it kept him distracted from focusing fully on his duties, but eventually he learned to accept them. It’s more than important for him that no one finds out how forced his relationship with his darling is and expects them to behave properly. This makes him the controlling one since he needs to make sure that his darling doesn’t get the chance of telling someone how he really is.

🎇Also the obsessive, possessive and manipulative type. I can imagine him as a really charming one who is talented in lying and will get his darling to dedicate most of their time with him. He has never experienced such abnormal feelings and that sparks his curiosity in why he feels this way about the s/o. What is it that makes them so special? He doesn’t know, but he’ll make sure to find out. His feelings also lead him to the point where he’ll become incredibly possessive over his darling, wanting to keep them for himself.

🎇He dislikes it when his darling spends time with other people and enjoys their presence. The only persons where he will hold back if they want to talk with his s/o are Darui, Killer B and the Raikage. But with everyone else it’ll be different. He’ll start telling his darling rumors about their family and friends. You want to see them? How funny. He overheard them talking about how annoying you are recently. Due to his manipulation you’ll start to avoid and isolate yourself from other people.

🎇He has a high position and is respected by the Raikage so he has to be smart about this. He’ll rely more on manipulation in such situations. Killing would only be used as a last resort and he has to plan carefully for this so that no trace will lead to him.

🎇Kidnapping is under his dignity. He makes it smarter. He’ll wrap his darling up in enough lies until they believe that they can’t trust anyone except him and will come willingly to him. If you should however try to escape him he’ll lock you up in a dark and empty room, not letting you see any sunlight or even the trace of a human anywhere near. Not even he will spend much time with you, only bringing you food and then leave. He keeps this up until you beg and cry for his attention and affection.

🎇If he would be a Yandere he would be a horrible one. Manipulative Yanderes are never funny to be with. He’ll have you think that you’re alone in this world and will make you paranoid around people so that you won’t leave his side. He’ll manipulate you until you’re exactly like he wants you to be. Dependent on only him.

#yandere naruto #yandere naruto shippuden #yandere ino #yandere ino yamanaka #yandere shikamaru #yandere shikamaru nara #yandere karin #yandere karin uzumaki #yandere shisui #yandere shisui uchiha #yandere mei #yandere mei terumi #yandere yugito #yandere yugito nii #yandere yagura #yandere yagura karatachi #yandere utakata #yandere fuu #yandere c

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alarawriting · 4 years

Text

52 Project #24: The Princesses and the Peas

(Inspired by a post on Tumblr and if I can ever find it again I will link it here.)

(Not proofread, beta’ed, or even read through a second time because this is massively late and if I don’t post within the next hour it will officially be next week everywhere in the United States and I will have failed in my mission. I’ll try to re-read and proofread and edit next week. Also this note is highly unprofessional, but I learned my relationship to my audience through fanfic, so this is how I roll.)

***

Surely you have heard a similar tale before, almost but not entirely like this one, of the queen who sought the perfect wife for her son, the crown prince.

The queen had ruled the land alone since the death of her husband. She was praised for her wisdom and her benevolence toward her people. But she was no longer young, and it was time to make sure her son made a politically beneficial marriage, to strengthen his position when it came time for him to take the crown. Many in the land whispered that the young man would make a terrible king, and wanted him to abdicate in favor of his younger sister, who was beautiful and bright and smiling. Celia, the young sister, could look anyone in the eye and make them believe that in that moment, they were the most important person in her world. Arien, the prince… could not do that.

The prince had a talent for mathematics, and it had expressed itself very young. Some said he should be the chancellor of the exchequer rather than the king. But Queen Leyta knew her son would make a compassionate and wise ruler as well as a prudent one. He also had a gift for seeing the humanity behind the numbers he calculated, of being able to think of the impact they would have on the people he would one day rule.

Once, when he was a child of six, his nursemaid lost him. Leyta found him behind the kitchens, picking through the garbage bins to find table scraps. She would have punished the kitchen staff for allowing such a thing, but Arien insisted that she should not. “It’s not their fault, Mother. I ordered them to let me, and I’m the prince, so they had to obey me. I told them that if you became angry at them I would tell you that they were only obeying my orders. They can’t get in trouble for obeying their liege.”

Leyta sighed. She could punish them for obeying their liege, when their liege was 6 and the thing he wanted to do was eat garbage, but she wouldn’t, because she knew why they obeyed. When the prince was thwarted, he would ask why. And if he received an answer, he would argue with it and present his position. Sometimes, this debate would lead to him accepting the necessity, and calmly going about his business, seeming to forget all about what he’d asked. More often, if he didn’t get an answer to “why”, or he didn’t like the answer and thought it didn’t make sense, and he was still thwarted, he would start to scream and hide under tables, or scream and run around and break things, or scream and slam his head into the wall, and he wouldn’t stop even when offered the thing he wanted. It was very, very hard to calm him once he started shrieking. So instead of punishing the kitchen staff, she asked Arien, “Why were you eating garbage?”

“Our food is bought with the taxes we take from the people,” he said seriously. “If we wasted less food, we wouldn’t have to tax the people as sorely as we do, and they would have more money to buy things for themselves.”

So she took him aside and told him that the scraps were fed to the dogs, who helped the palace huntsmen bring down game, or the goats and fowl, who gave the palace milk, meat and eggs, or they were tilled into the ground to make the fields around the palace more fruitful. They did not, in fact, go to waste; food that wasn’t wholesome for humans to eat could still feed animals, who would turn it back into wholesome food.

Then she had a lengthy discussion with him about tax policy, and listened gravely to his suggestions as to how they could ease the burdens on the people, and told him what the problems with his ideas were. And when some of his ideas didn’t have significant problems, she told him so, and discussed them with him, and even implemented a few as policy.

Arien also had a great love for bugs. He spent much of his days wandering the grounds, sketching every insect he saw, capturing some to study them and figure out what they ate. When Leyta learned of this, she found a learned scholar of insects, and hired him to be Arien’s tutor in the matter of insects, only. The man was at first openly resentful of being required to work with a small child, assuming that Arien would be a spoiled princeling with no real interest in learning, but when he discovered Arien’s love for the tiny creatures, he embraced the boy wholeheartedly and tutored him as well as he could.

The prince had few friends. He was open and innocent, happy to make friends with any child close to his own age, but the honest children who truly wanted a playmate were put off by Arien’s tendency to talk about bugs and math almost constantly. The children who put up with Arien’s chatter were, to Leyta’s eyes, obviously coached by ambitious mothers, pretending to friendship with the strange young prince to improve their position at court. She arranged for most of these children to be sent away – either their mothers dismissed, or the family sent to one of the crown’s holdings with some duty to perform or another. Arien was saddened by the disappearance of his playmates, since he didn’t realize they saw him as mere stepping stones to power. Celia knew, and would comfort her brother as well as she could… but she didn’t have a lot of patience for math, tax policy, and insects either.

As he grew up, Arien continued to display a strange mixture of wisdom and childishness. He would run around the palace grounds, playing with children far younger than he was, and they were not old enough to try to manipulate him, so Queen Leyta left them alone. He enjoyed riding his horse and taking care of it, and was often found at the stables, for he believed his horse needed to cared for in just the exact way he did it, and he didn’t trust the stablehands to follow his instructions exactly. He would spend hours discussing the politics of the land and the problems facing various groups of his subjects with Leyta and her own advisors, and then he would scream and throw himself on the floor at dinner because a chef had put visible onions in his soup, and he would need to be put to bed with his favorite blanket and a knitted doll of a dog that he’d had when he was four.

People said that the boy was touched in the head, that he was slightly mad, and also, that a future king who threw temper tantrums over onions was not to be trusted. But they weren’t, exactly, tantrums, as Leyta saw them. They didn’t stop when the problem was solved, they usually didn’t include demands – in fact, usually it was hard to get the prince to explain what was wrong, because he seemed to lose much of his ability to speak when these fits came on him. And she could see in his eyes that he was terrified and overwhelmed, not angry and demanding. Arien needed the world to work a certain way, and when it did not, it left him adrift, frightened and lost in a world that seemed to make no sense to him anymore.

Some of these ways that the world needed to work involved food, and the importance of not being able to see onions, for an onion large enough to see was large enough to crunch in his mouth in a way that apparently was so disgusting it would make him lose his ability to eat all day. There were similar rules regarding peppers, and certain cream dishes. Other ways the world needed to work regarded his mother’s advisors treating him like their future king, not in terms of obsequious deference but in terms of actually listening to his ideas and explaining things to him – even when he was merely eight. And then there was the care of animals – his own animals needed to be cared for in an exact way, and if he saw anyone being cruel to an animal, he might actually become violent to that person. The same was true of stronger people being cruel to weaker ones. When he was fourteen, he heard a maid crying, and asked a kitchen maid to find out for him what had happened. And then, when he learned that a nobleman under his roof had ill used her and cast her aside, he went to his mother and demanded the man be whipped for his crimes. The political explanations she gave for why that couldn’t be done fell on deaf ears; he was a cruel man and he’d harmed someone he had power over, and that was all Arien cared about. Leyta only managed to satisfy him by sending the man on a probably futile sea expedition to try to find a cheaper source of rice.

This was the boy that Queen Leyta had to find a proper bride for.

Her mother-in-law, the Dowager Queen, had ideas, but it had been many years since the Dowager Queen had actually held any power; she was one of Leyta’s advisors now, nothing more. So the idea would have to be one that Leyta agreed with, herself.

A ball to introduce eligible young women with powerful families to the prince? No. The prince didn’t handle crowds or parties well, or meeting a lot of new people in one evening.

A series of daytime salons, where a small group of eligible women would converse over luncheon with the prince? No. That was still too many people and the prince was self-conscious about people watching him eat.

Individual visits from each eligible young lady and her chaperones, to the palace, to meet with Arien, and also to be approved by Leyta? Yes! An excellent idea. Leyta had her secretary write up the invitations, to all the young women whose parents had written to her or the Dowager to express an interest.

In the palace was a suite of rooms that had been Leyta’s, once, when she’d lived in this palace to learn its ways before marrying the then-prince. She had that suite cleaned and prepared for the guests. Sleeping quarters to either side for the princess’s guards. Ladies-in-waiting to sleep in the antechamber outside the princess’s bedroom. And inside the princess’s bedroom, a bed heaped with several thick eiderdown duvets and pillows, incredibly soft, with sheets made from the finest linens.

And under the second eiderdown duvet, dried peas.

Queen Leyta tested the peas. When she sat on the bed, she couldn’t feel them. If she laid in the bed, she could barely tell they were there. But when she had Arien try it, he said, “You’re going to take them out before the guests come, right? The peas make the bed much too uncomfortable.”

“The peas,” Leyta said, “are to test whether a girl is right for you or not. It’s magic.”

Arien looked at her skeptically, unsure whether he believed in magic or not. “How are dried peas supposed to find me the right wife?”

“Magic,” Leyta said. “I can’t tell you exactly how it works. But it’s very important that you not tell them about the peas, or the magic won’t work.”

“Mother, I’m sixteen. I’m not a child. This whole story sounds ridiculous.”

“All right,” Leyta admitted. “It’s not magic, but I won’t be able to explain it to you until after it’s proven that it works, or doesn’t. But it is very important that you not tell any of your guests about it.”

Arien looked like he wanted to argue some more about it. Leyta said, “Trust me,” and he sighed, plainly remembering the number of times his mother had stood up for him or had come up with some scheme to help him.

“All right, Mother, but I’ll want that explanation afterwards.”

The Dowager Queen had her own theories. “You want to see if they can tell the peas are there?”

“To a certain extent,” Leyta said.

“You know that old wives’ tale about princesses being true and refined if they’re extremely sensitive is just a myth. I wasn’t a fragile flower who’d lose petals if you looked at her hard, and neither were you. And neither will Celia be.”

“I know that, Mother,” Leyta said – it was custom to address your mother-in-law as Mother, and Leyta’s own mother had died shortly after her wedding. The Dowager Queen had been the closest thing to a mother she’d had the entire time she was Queen. “I’m not testing for extreme skin sensitivity. Trust me.”

“It’d be hard for him to get an heir on a princess that fragile, don’t you think?” The Dowager chortled.

Leyta sighed. “No need to be crude about it. I have my reasons, and I’ll explain them to you, eventually. Let’s see if it works, first.”

***

The first princess was from the west. She had long straight hair and delicate-looking eyes with folded lids that left them shaped like almonds, rather than the eggs that the people of this realm wore in their face. She had pale creamy skin with a golden undertone, and she was demure and very polite, her etiquette perfect. She sat with Arien for hours, smiling at him with a face that expressed great interest, as he explained to her the complexities of life in a beehive.

In the morning, Leyta asked her, “How did you sleep?”

“Oh, wonderfully,” the princess said. “The bed was perfect! So soft! Your hospitality is wonderful.” She bowed her head.

Leyta saw her and her entourage off. When she returned, she asked Arien, “What did you think of her?”

“She was nice,” Arien said. “She listened to me. I’ve only had a few friends who listened to me, and they all moved away.”

Privately, without Arien present, the Dowager asked, “So what’s your verdict?”

“Unless none of them pass the test, she’s a no.”

***

The second princess was from the land immediately to the north. Her skin was tree- brown but as smooth as a tranquil lake, her hair floating around her head in a soft, curly cloud. Arien talked to her about beetles. She made excuses of not feeling well about half an hour into the beetle discussion.

When Leyta asked her how she slept, she said, “Your rooms are very nice. And the food last night was excellent, I’m so sorry I had to cut the evening short. But I feel fully rejuvenated today.”

Arien said, “She seemed okay, but she kept looking around while I was talking to her, so much that I think she gave herself motion sickness. I think that’s why she got sick.”

Leyta said to the Dowager, “A definite no.”

***

The third princess was from the far south. She had beautiful straight golden hair, cut short and asymmetrically, where it was shorter in the back than front and where it was parted on one side rather than in the middle.

She complained about her soup being cold. She complained about her roast beef being too bloody. She complained that the dessert course had small portions and also that it was too sweet. She screamed at servants for not bringing her wet towels for wiping her hands quickly enough and for refilling her wine glass too quickly. She insisted on talking to the seneschal about the servants who had served her, demanding that they be banished from the castle for incompetence. When Arien tried to talk to her, her demeanor was sweet, but every time he tried to talk to her about something he liked, she insisted that he show her another part of the castle. She made plans for room redecoration as if she had already become Arien’s queen.

In the morning, she was sickly sweet with Leyta, saying it was only a minor thing, really, but surely more competent servants could be found to make the bed? It was extremely lumpy. Leyta found out that she’d woken the chambermaids at 1 in the morning to demand an additional five featherbeds piled on top of hers.

Arien didn’t look at his mother. “Um… I don’t want to be impolite, but… I didn’t like her very much.”

The Dowager Queen said, “Please don’t tell me you’re considering that young harridan just because she could tell there were peas in the bed.”

“Oh, no. Not even for a moment,” said Leyta, and drew her quill through the name “Princess Carinna” on the list.

***

The fourth princess was actually the daughter of a powerful merchant, not an actual princess at all. She had deeply tanned skin and thick black hair, and beautiful dark eyes. She and Arien talked for hours about tax policy and accounting techniques, and she seemed genuinely interested.

She said the bed had been wonderful, and there was nothing wrong with it. Arien liked her. But Queen Leyta marked her as a provisional choice, the first on the list if no one passed her test.

***

And so it went with princess after princess. Most of them showed at least some slight sign of impatience when Arien monopolized the conversation, but none of them admitted to it, and few even tried to change the topic. No others were as rude as Carinna. No others admitted to detecting the peas, either. Leyta was on the verge of contacting the merchant to make an offer for his daughter to wed Arien. And then Princess Inaya arrived.

Princess Inaya was from further north than the second princess had been, her skin darker and her hair in braids that lay directly against her head, with ribbons and beads woven into them at the bottom. She didn’t look Leyta in the eye – or anyone else, really, keeping her head bowed demurely. She picked at her food, more or less eating only the potatoes, and she barely spoke… until she met with Arien.

He offered, diffidently, to show her the garden, and she accepted. He started to point out interesting bugs that he saw in the garden… and she began to point out interesting rocks. They soon began an animated conversation that sounded to Leyta more like two separate threads, where Arien would say a sentence or two about insects, then yield to Inaya, who would say a sentence or two about rocks. Sometimes they had a genuine back-and-forth when they talked about the habitats of pillbugs, who lived under rocks, or other areas where rocks and insects somehow intersected. Arien showed Inaya the notebook where he drew bugs and made his observations, and Inaya seemed to be thrilled with his artistic skill. She showed him her own notebook, with no art at all, where she wrote down the properties of rocks she had discovered and outlined the tests she did on stones to see what they were made of. Arien was fascinated with the efforts she’d gone to and how thoroughly she’d documented her findings; he’d never thought of doing anything to research the insects aside from looking them up in his tutor’s books.

At no point did she ever look Arien in the eye. At no point did he seem to care. He relaxed enough with Inaya to flap his hands when he grew excited; Inaya had a chain of polished stones that, instead of wearing around her neck, she tossed in the air as she paced.

In the morning, when Leyta asked Inaya how she slept, she squirmed.

“I, um. The bed was mostly very nice. Very good linens, nice soft down. But, uh. It felt like maybe there were… tiny pebbles in there somewhere? I’m not sure, I didn’t want to be rude and strip down the bed to look, but, uh. It was kind of uncomfortable.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that,” Leyta said.

She made arrangements to ask Arien his opinion before Inaya’s entourage left, this time. He spoke very simply. “I love her. Pick her, she’s the one.”

“I thought you would say that,” Leyta said, and she finished drafting the offer to Inaya’s parents, and signed it. “Take this to her lady-in-waiting before they leave, to give to Inaya’s parents.”

“I can’t!” Arien said, looking all around. “I can’t be the one to do it because I have to give her a parting gift if I see her and I don’t have any nice rocks!”

So Leyta gave him a bracelet with a large inset opal, and smaller jades all around it. “Take this to her and tell her which kinds of stones are in it, and tell her she can wear it as a bracelet if she wants, or take it apart for the stones, whichever she prefers.”

Later she heard that Inaya collapsed on the ground crying when he made the offer, but that her lady-in-waiting reassured Arien that this wasn’t abnormal – that she did this whenever her emotions were too strong to control, even if they were happy emotions. Inaya confirmed that she was crying from relief and joy, because she had always thought that no man would ever want to marry her and if one did, he would hate her rocks and want her to do normal womanly things like embroidery or something, which she wasn’t good at in the slightest because her coordination was bad and she was always poking the needle into the wrong place, and she had never imagined that she would ever find a man who understood her and didn’t demand that she look in his eyes and liked to listen to her talk about what she loved. Then Arien asked her very gravely if she liked hugs, because most of the time he didn’t like hugs, especially when they were a surprise, but if she would like a hug he really wanted to give her one. They hugged, and declared mutual love (“as far as I can define the feeling of love, anyway,” Inaya said, “because I don’t think I’ve ever been in love before, so how can I know for sure that that’s what this is?” Arien had agreed with her, but said “I think that even if what we’re feeling isn’t the same kind of thing as other people feel when they’re in love, it’s close enough that we can use the same word, because who wants to have to make up a new word?” And then they spent several minutes amusing each other to the point of hysterical laughter in making up new words that sounded ridiculous, sometimes repeating them to each other ten or a dozen times.) When Inaya finally had to leave, Arien cried.

Leyta wasn’t there for any of that, but her spies were everywhere in the castle.

***

When the Dowager demanded that she explain her test, Leyta summoned Arien, who had washed his face so it looked more as if he had had a terrible runny nose and sneezes than that he’d been crying.

“You asked me about what it would prove, to put peas in the bed,” Leyta said, “and I was looking for two things, but one was more important than the other.”

“What were you looking for?” Arien asked.

“Arien… you know that you’re a special young man, and different in some ways than other people your age. I’ve consulted with many scholars. Children like you are often strangely sensitive to things that other people don’t notice… often to the point where it’s unpleasant. Such as your feelings about onions.”

He shuddered. “Please do not remind me of the existence of those devil vegetables.”

Leyta laughed. The Dowager scowled. Leyta knew she preferred that a king, or a crown prince who’d just been betrothed, have a serious demeanor. She also knew that Arien would be who he was, no matter what anyone asked him to be.

“So I thought, the peas might be noticeable to some of the girls, but they would be especially notable to a girl who was like Arien. More importantly, if a girl noticed it but claimed she didn’t… Arien, I know you are often taken off guard by lies, and you’re a very honest man yourself. I know you would prefer a wife who will tell you when something makes her unhappy, rather than her trying to guess how you feel about it and then telling you what she thinks you want to hear.”

Arien nodded. “Nobody can see inside someone else’s mind, so why would anyone even do that?”

“I wanted a girl who would be honest about something she found unpleasant, even if she had to offend her host to admit it. But, obviously, kindness and compassion and a lack of malice about it were necessary as well… we don’t want a Carinna anywhere near the rulership of the kingdom.”

“You can say that again,” Arien said. Leyta suspected he was setting her up so she could tell a joke.

“But I won’t, because I know you heard it the first time,” she said, smiling.

The Dowager frowned. “So you picked a girl who has the same kinds of problems as Arien? Was that wise? The kingdom may need rulers who understand the idea of telling lies when they must, who can be charming and adept with politics. I thought you’d pick a girl who would cover Arien’s weaknesses, not one with the same issues.”

“Your son understood me,” Leyta said simply. “It was an arranged marriage, but we quickly grew to love each other, because we respected and we understood each other. I don’t want the kingdom to have a queen who resents her husband because she thinks he’s strange… who may play politics behind the scenes to have him killed so she can take power. Or who takes lovers, so we don’t know if the royal blood is even in the heirs. It’s more important to me that Arien’s wife respects him and understands him, and that he understands and respects her, than to have rulers who can detect all the subterranean undercurrents of a conversation. That’s what spymasters are for… and Dowager mothers and grandmothers, and perhaps even younger sisters.”

“Mother,” Arien said, “thank you. I know the people think I’m strange, and maybe I am, but you’ve always watched out for me. I didn’t even know I needed to find a wife who wouldn’t lie to protect my feelings until you pointed it out, and now it’s obvious.” He looked at the Dowager. “And Grandmother, Inaya does complement me. I understand mathematics, and finance, and things like that. She was trained by her parents to understand logistics, so she could run the castle, but she went deeper with it; she understands things about what kind of weather will do things to the crops and what will happen to the farmers when that occurs, things I never even thought about asking. Together I think she and I can make our country one of the most prosperous and happy nations in the world.”

***

And so it came to be. Prince Arien and Princess Inaya were wed in a lovely ceremony that they immediately fled to go on their honeymoon as soon as the marriage vows were taken. They understood the economics of the nation, and other nations, as few kings and queens ever did, and when they needed someone to tell them that someone else was lying, they had the Dowager Leyta and Princess Celia. The country prospered as it never had before, with no beggars on the streets of the cities, because the King and Queen gave homes to those who had none, and living expenses to those too sick or weak or lacking in some ability so that they couldn’t work.

It would be a lie to say they lived happily ever after, because no human can be happy all the time, and they had arguments and problems in their relationship from time to time. But even Arien the Honest and his Queen would agree that we can say they lived mostly happily for the rest of their lives.

#52 project #i'm late! i'm late!#fairy tales #autism #altered tales #the writer is autistic

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that-house · 3 years

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Viego Rant (villainy and character design and tragedy and all that jazz)

Introduction The more I think about Viego, League of Legends’ newest character, the more enamored I am with him as a villain (unrelated to his general sexiness, though that does tie in with what makes him such a good villain).

I’ve seen a lot of complaints about his design. The Ruined King, one of the greatest threats in Runeterra, the progenitor of the Shadow Isles, the lord of the undead, is finally released as a playable champion and he looks like this:

People were expecting another Mordekaiser (who is similarly an undead king with a ghost army), a lich-tyrant clad in iron, decayed flesh peeling from an aged face. What we got was an angsty anime prettyboy, and it was infinitely better than the alternatives.

Lore Viego isn’t a conquering king. While his combat abilities are indeed badass, his personality is far from it. He’s a whiny brat and that’s incredible. He isn’t bent on world domination. His character arc revolves around just how human, how fallible he really is. For those unfamiliar with his lore, I’ll paraphrase it here:

Viego was the second son of a great king. Overshadowed by his brother and with no expectations upon him and near-limitless wealth, he wandered around being an idiot fuckboy for the vast majority of his formative years. Disaster struck when his brother died in an accident, and Viego took the throne with no training, no experience, and no desire to be king. He was a shitty king. The worst king. Just all-around apathetic. Gave zero shits. Can you blame him? It’s a lot of responsibility to be thrust upon someone who isn’t much more than a child, and with no preparation. He didn’t care about anything, that is, until he met Isolde. She was a poor seamstress, but he fell in love with her upon their first meeting. Together they ruled the country but it was really just them staring longingly into each others’ eyes. His allies were kinda fucking pissed about that, and one day an assassin came from Viego. The assassin fucked up and stabbed Isolde instead, and the poison on the blade made her fall gravely ill. As she lay in her bed, slowly dying, Viego went mad seeking a cure. He ravaged the land seeking any knowledge that might help, pouring all of his money into finding an antidote. He failed. As a last resort, he brought Isolde’s body to the Blessed Isles, a place rumored to be able to resurrect the dead. It worked, to an extent. Isolde’s wraith, confused, afraid, and angry at being ripped from the peace of death, unthinkingly stabbed Viego in the chest with his own magic sword, creating basically a magic nuke that turned the Blessed Isles into the domain of the undead. Viego resurrected as the king of the Shadow Isles some time later, having totally forgotten that Isolde killed him. He controls a big-ass ghost army, could probably beat up any living thing in a fight, and has evil ghost magic. Now this stupid simp wants his wife back and if he has to kill every living thing on Runeterra, well, anything for his queen. He’s even a tier 3 sub to her Twitch.

Music His musical theme isn’t some heavy metal anthem or intense cinematic piece (unlike the Pentakill song named after his sword, Blade of the Ruined King). It’s mostly sad and slow, almost sinister, with a piano and a music box. It has its loud moments featuring violins and choral bits like any villainous music, but the song is mostly subtle. It is a banger though.

youtube

In the comments section of this video, someone pointed out that the music reflects his story from beginning to end:

Everything about this champion is so well done. Riot Games really outdid themselves on this one. Bravo, encore please.

Motivation While the Mordekaiser circlejerkers on r/LeagueofLegends won’t shut the fuck up about how powerful Mordekaiser is, Viego is the better villain. Mordekaiser may be a bigger threat to all life on Runeterra, but Viego is a better character. (There’s a guy on my League discord server who won’t shut up about Mordekaiser so forgive me for being pissed at Morde stans).

Mordekaiser is motivated by a desire for control, to rule the world. Viego is motivated by obsession and misplaced love. There aren’t a lot of Mordekaisers on Earth. Supervillains are rare in real life. But Viego’s motivations are a lot closer to home. People in positions of power that they don’t deserve can do a lot of harm (for example: Trump).

He’s a grieving husband who was never prepared to deal with anything more difficult than choosing what wine to drink with dinner, who is trying to get his wife back because the world had always complied to his every whim. He’s a funky mix between a truly hopeless romantic and a spoiled brat throwing a temper tantrum.

Obsession is scary. It’s a real-world emotional state that’s been the cause of a lot of murders over mankind’s history. In contrast, Mordekaiser’s cartoonish Genghis Khan XXL schtick isn’t something that we encounter often. Of course a superpowered ultradictator would be worse for the world, but if you give ultimate power to a random person, you’re more likely to get someone like Tighten from Megamind. Or, more relevantly, Viego.

Design His design is sexy and stupid, just like him. He wears an open shirt into battle and wields his sword like an idiot (I’ve seen all the rants about how that’s not how that sword is meant to be used) because he was never really a warrior. Even at his most violent, right before the end of his mortal life, he didn’t do much combat himself, leaving his military endeavors to his underlings. Even now that he’s essentially a god, he still has a colossal wraith army that causes far more devastation than he ever could personally.

Despite his slim build (by League of Legends standards), he easily wields his colossal sword because of the strength of his state of undeath. Like his political power when he was alive, his posthumous magical and physical powers were never something he sought out, they were just given to him by circumstance.

The big cool-ass triangle hole in his chest where Isolde stabbed him is the source of the Black Mist, which is evil ghost mist that ebbs and flows from the Shadow Isles, bringing with it hordes of the undead. The sadder Viego is, the more Mist he creates. Poetically, his invasion of the world is inspired by his sorrow at his wife’s death and enabled by his wife’s reluctance to return to him. His story is perfectly reflected by his design.

Isolde Isolde’s spirit took up residence inside a young Senna (who’s another League champion, not particularly important here). This led to some Black Mist-related shenanigans and at least for the time being, Senna uses Isolde’s power to fight off the servants of Viego which threaten all life on Runeterra.

It seems pretty clear that whatever love Isolde felt for Viego is gone by now. Whether or not she ever loved him or was just unable to say no to the king is up for debate, but I’d like to believe there was something there. In my opinion, Viego’s story hits harder if they really were a great couple at first, torn apart by circumstance and obsession.

Much like the Maiden of the Woods in that one comic that circulates around here, to whom the knight gave his heart and she was like “yo what the fuck i literally never asked you to do this,” Viego went a little too far in trying to save her. They may have once been happy, but the Ruined King ruined his own life, too.

Unless Isolde is a lot less morally decent than we’ve been led to believe, I doubt she can forgive all the massacring that her husband’s been doing lately. In the recent cinematic, she was shown to be pretty anti-Viego. Maybe she’ll get a bastardization arc, but it certainly seems unlikely.

All of Season 2021 is based around Viego, Isolde, and the Shadow Isles, so we’ll just have to see what comes next. It’s possible that we’ll get Isolde as a playable champion, which should clear a lot of things up.

Final Thoughts Unlike so many villains, he’s not fueled by rage or hatred, but rather by sorrow. He’s stuck in his past, unable to move on. He regrets the actions of his life but is set on his course now. The sunk-cost fallacy comes into play here; he’s put so much time and effort and blood into bringing back Isolde, that turning away from it would feel to him like an insult, not only to her but to the innocent lives he’s taken in her name.

His tale is a tragedy, a love story gone horrifically wrong. Viego has suffered throughout his thousand-year life. Despite this, he’s undoubtedly the villain. His permanent death would be a net positive for the world. In has rage and grief he’s destroyed multiple civilizations, and will burn down the world to get Isolde back.

His heart may be in the wrong place, but it’s in a very human place. I don’t think he’ll get the ending he’s looking for, but I hope he finds some closure in the end.

#League of Legends #viego #i swear no one's gonna read this #even if you dont care about League i tried to make this interesting #even if you don't like League as a game the lore is pretty fucking solid

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otverzhennyy · 3 years

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Viktor on every Harbingers.

As stated before, Viktor’s loyalty tend to be more to the people of Snezhnaya and the Harbingers than the Tsaritsa, who he sees more as a faceless tradition despite, yes, believing in the cryo archon’s mission. However, when it comes to his daily life, it is actually the Harbingers who possess his devotion.

Viktor is implied to have, at the very least, witnessed the harbingers which I imagine are during Fatui events, speeches and such, and is knowledgeable of both their way of work, their abilities, the personality they present, quirks and what the other Fatui think of them in general. This is a post based on the information we got so far in canon, the Commedia dell’arte and of course liberal interpretations to flesh out Viktor’s relation towards the harbingers, it is HEAVILY subject to change.

This list goes from who Viktor would like to work for the LEAST to the MOST. Viktor admires all Harbingers and see how incredible they are to the Fatui cause, but this is purely him speaking selfishly in terms of working under them.

SCARAMOUCHE Scaramouche is implied by Viktor to be pretty much universally disliked by the Fatui, which is supported by his shown temper. Scaramouche is one to belittle and not respect underlings, even potentially harming them physically through electro, and lead them with fear. Scaramouche throws emotional, gratuitous tantrums.

This is something Viktor cannot respect when strictly speaking of ways to run the chain of commands. This is no way to be a leader, not when you do not have reasons to apply this kind of authority. Scaramouche’s devastating power, however, is no joke, and given that the Tsaritsa has had her own reason to choose him, there is no question that Viktor would answer the man’s call and orders, but would he enjoy his daily working life under such a self-centered man with no respect for the lives he is responsible for but his own ? Not really. He’d sooner ask for a transfer... which is, unfortunately, not really possible within the Fatui, as you are to believe that where you are stationed is where you should be.

PIERRO Pierro’s crazed antics constantly have one question his state of mind, and his chaotic mockery and obvious bitterness are made for a sour association, where one can never really rest as the man is too unpredictable. Underlings unable to guess what his plans are, given he never tell anyone anything.

Pierro doesn’t care what happens when his subordinates are sent on assignments, not caring if they are casualties or not. As someone who values his life, even if he is loyal and swore an oath to the chain of command, Viktor much rather stay alive. The man is... devastating.

SANDRONE Sandrone uses underhanded tricks and manipulates people to get what he wants, hiding behind a face of kindness to the people. Although Viktor is one to recognize the grey areas of politics, which is, politics is everywhere in any social interactions, Sandrone stands out because he is not influencing people’s judgements, he is a hypocrite who takes advantage of commoners when they meet their lowest points.

This, alongside his eerie puppets... is absolutely terrifying. Viktor cannot help but, unlike Scaramouche where he sees the immaturity and lack of professionalism of one man, feel genuine fear... and fascination. The things he could learn from this man, he cannot even start to comprehend.

PULCINELLA Pulcinella is the harbinger in charge of the Fatui’s military and, alternatively, its recruits camp. Viktor would be more than happy to give his body for the nation if needed, even if the battlefield is not his ideal position.

Technically, all Fatui receives a form of military training. The difference with Pulcinella is mainly that the Skirmishers are constantly enhanced through the Fatui technology, modified as their body belongs to the nation. Viktor personally has no interest in being cut open and changed, as he spent a significant amount of time perfecting his form and knowing his own body. Not everyone has the mental fortitude to be more than happy to be pumped with drugged and have their brain reconstructed to be a better martial weapon.

PANTALONE As the one gathering all funds related to Snezhnaya and the Fatui, working for Pantalone is about contributing to the wealth of the nation, an absolute vital part which, however, comes with a ruthless environment. Whereas politics and influence are more subjective, wealth is about cold, hard numbers in an unsure, competitive scene.

Although Viktor is the first one to tell that there is no bad way to gather money and actually admire the length the man goes for the nation’s mission, what is more of a desk job with very little flexibility (the way political debates and diplomatic exchanges do) is bound to bore him out, thinking like his wits could be used elsewhere.

TARTAGLIA When there is need for intimidation, Tartaglia Childe is the one sent by her Lady Tsaritsa. When there is need for muscles on the field, Tartaglia Childe is also the one sent. Although Viktor’s hunting background would technically make his skills appropriate for the task, Viktor is still not one who actually enjoys applying, let’s say, physical matters, especially unconventional ones Tartaglia Childe is sent into : it is not a straightforward army VS army combat. It is something which require finesse... a dangerous game which doesn’t necessarily fit Viktor.

As for the young lord himself, although he is one of the most respectable harbinger, Tartaglia’s impulsiveness and free spirit is known to suddenly put operations into chaos, without him going through the proper channels. This, honestly sounds both thrilling, rewarding and amazing... which is not Viktor’s cup of tea. However, Tartaglia has been proven to be the harbinger who respects underlings the most as individuals, despite his casual attitude giving some rookies the false impression that he is a softie... it just makes getting a disciplinary action from him harder.

SIGNORA La Signora is her majesty’s most direct representative in the manners of political and courtly presence. Although working for Signora is a door to open many opportunities to political events for one’s ascension in their career, Signora knows the game... and plays it dirty. Many threats are given under technically diplomatic moves, and as someone who hates losing time on something else than her goals, she has no olive branch to any subordinate, who are pawns for her to be at her service like a mighty mistress... but her ways are always so bloody efficient, the results speak for her manners. Always ahead of the whole court. A queen in any place she walks in.

Technically, Viktor cannot complain about his position, although he is very disgruntled about being that low in the food chain... and extremely neglected. Sigh. Even if he is one to not bother about a pause to his advancements, Viktor cannot get, at least, the satisfaction of doing something for his home... because he’s not doing anything and he’s denying the fact that he’s been forgotten.

DOTTORE Dottore is the most cerebral and knowledgeable of the harbingers, with actual results and hard work to show. As someone in need of mental stimulation, Viktor cannot help but be mesmerized at the constant studying opportunity, under a man who knows exactly what he is doing, what he wants, and makes it clear.

The practical application of skills and sense of professionalism make Dottore both a harbinger Viktor personally admire greatly and would like to work under : with such talent which shouldn’t, for Viktor, be wasted for a single second, he is no scientist, but would gladly do anything to remotely be useful to him. Dottore is actually one of the three harginers where Viktor’s respect, for various reasons, actually cancel part of the fear he would normally get from a man doing such harsh experiments.

CAPITANO The first time Viktor laid his eyes on Capitano, he’d never forget. For whatever reason the man was in his region, probably some undisclosed assignments, he had never seen a man breathing so much charisma by merely existing. Amidst the men who’d try to appear strong and tall, Capitano didn’t have to be the tallest or largest to be absolutely mesmerizing. A man who commanded authority by presence alone.

He needed to be like him. And this is when a young Viktor decided to join the Fatui, not telling a single word that a single man triggered it all. Viktor doesn’t see himself as someone with particular talent, drive or patience to change the world... but if he could be half the man his idol was, that would be enough... but did he want to be the man, or solely be by his side, even if it meant potentially never working under him ? ... both.

As a recruit, Viktor would always run to the pavilion up the Fatui base to see Capitano entering the premises whenever his arrival was announced, watching from afar, get information on what the man had been up to. The stories of the man’s conquests, exploring uncharted territories while keeping such a solemn expression, an inspiring leader who’d run his affairs with the most unforgiving grip, to the perfection, with every bit of professionalism and no break in his composure.

If Viktor was to work under this man, he wouldn’t care a single bit about the treatment on his person. If he can be the slightest bit not indirectly, but directly useful to such a man, he would gladly serve him with every bit of devotion he has. Travelling at his side with the most powerful assets to the Fatui, each challenge only one exciting puzzle after one another.

If Viktor sees the holy Tsaritsa as the Fatui’s queen, Capitano is his King.

#.otverzhennyy ( headcanon )#insert simp jokes here #this took me waaaay too long and it is SO confusing but I needed t oat least have something done for this

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killed-by-jane-volturi · 3 years

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Cause someone has to fill the huge Volturi void, right?

An extract of the start of who knows what, y’all.

****Jane (and Alec) are aged up to 20 because S*eyer is a gateway pedo and she does not pass the fuckin’ vibe check****

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@greekmuser

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“Well, I think that was wonderful. That was wonderful, don’t you agree?” Aro clasped his hands and turned to each of his brothers in delight.

Marcus nodded deeply and slowly, his face not moving from its sunken blood-hound like melancholy. Caius smiled thinly.

This human did indeed have a wonderful handle of the violin trembling against her shoulder, but Aro had been at this for eight days. In a bid to add to his ‘collection’ of art, Aro had decided to reach out to those few hopeful humans who stayed under the Volturi’s employ in search of any with a talent with instruments. Once he acquired a full quartet, orchestra, or god knows what he had his heart set on, he would grant them the immortality they craved in exchange for their eternal service as the castle’s musicians.

No one dared voice how ridiculous a waste of effort it seemed, even when Aro declared he wanted to hear for himself each and every audition, and dragged his brothers into the newly repaired turret room for the occasion.

The young woman with the violin bowed deeply, awkwardly, and then left, only to be replaced by another. This one carried a cello, and froze to her core once she gathered the courage to look at her spectators.

“Whilst we’re still young.” Marcus droned in an unchanging, deadened tone.

Caius’ snort at the humour was childish and Aro glared across the room at him before regaining his whimsical, cheerful facade.

“Go ahead.”

The woman wetted her lips and tried to smile, drawing the bow to the strings. Aro thought she looked like very much like she was in pain.

As the thought crossed his mind, the sound of an enraged scream split through the marble and mortar of the castle walls with such a blood-curdling quality the cello woman almost fainted.

Aro closed his eyes in annoyance, Marcus rolled his tortured gaze on the ceiling and Caius gave the side of Aro’s head a look which could have said ‘rather you than me’ as much as it could have meant ‘I told you so’.

“Excuse me.” Aro said with a sickly sugariness, lips peeled back in a shark smile as a muffled crashing sound resounded from above.

He left the judging to his brothers with a heavy heart, and hoped they would at least allow her to play before they killed her.

Jane’s chambers, of which had been hers and hers alone for over twelve hundred years, were now more of a salvage operation than a rescue mission. She stood still in the rubble of the furniture, of her few possessions and in places, the stonework of the walls, with her back to the door and an antagonised aura about her. Chalky dust still swirled in the air, and smears of powdered granite peppered with splinters decorated her black robes in calico patches. Aro cleared his throat from the doorway and she exhaled audibly.

“Jane.” He prompted, like a school teacher cueing a small child to take their turn.

“Master.” It was polite but she knew she was pushing it. Aro had asked a question with his presence alone, and this was the second time this week that she hadn’t answered it. She didn’t turn around.

Aro stayed silent for long enough to give away that he was calculating.

“Your power grants you a great deal of… privacy. Which in turn demands a great deal of transparency,” His voice stayed light and oddly-pitched. “I trust that I still have your… transparency?” His saccharine tone was straining. She was keeping things from him, and no one kept things from him.

Jane clenched and unclenched her jaw, still rigid. It wouldn’t be long before he worked this out, she knew Caius was already whispering in his ear at every opportunity. She turned very slowly to look at him, and Aro’s features scrunched a little at what he was confronted with. Jane’s face was calm, but there was a crack running along her cheekbone which was healing very slowly, if it was healing at all. Her eyes were flushed black. However long it had been since Jane had drank, it was long enough halt her natural abilities to heal almost to a stop.

She nodded once, knowing better than to speak and risk her words being seized and used against her.

“I do not wish to have to force you to behave appropriately, Jane.” He added with some finality, the threat seeping into his voice. “The Guard do not have personal issues.” He left.

Jane’s shoulders relaxed a little and she glanced towards a god she didn’t believe in before looking around at the room she had destroyed. She swore. She hadn’t succumbed to such a blind rage in centuries, but she didn’t know any other way to handle this new complication.

“Dear me.”

Jane’s head snapped around to regard the new intrusion into what was already a poor day. She growled lowly, fists tightening under her cloak as she felt Chelsea’s thin influence coil around her.

“Temper, temper, Jane.” Chelsea’s pale brown hair was wrapped into a bun that made her sharp features look as though they had been created by the taught pressure alone. She kept a cold, vindictive twist to her thin lips as she surveyed the room.

“Didn’t your dirty peasant mother ever teach you that it’s unbecoming of a lady to throw tantrums?”

Anger simmered under the surface as Jane battled to school her face. In her eyes, Chelsea, for what she could do, was an abomination that should have been destroyed long ago, and the fact that Aro refused to listen to her on the subject gave the manipulator a kind of insufferable glee that goaded Jane to her very soul.

“If you’d like to see a tantrum, Charmion, by all means; carry on.”

Jane lifted her jaw and with some satisfaction saw the other woman hesitate, eyes flicking down and back up again as if somehow surveying a threat she couldn’t see. The eldest of Aro’s daughters despised people calling her by her birth name and anyone else would have paid for their insolence with a hard dose of Chelsea’s most brutal destruction, losing their friends, lovers, even pets on occasion. But Jane’s power was volatile and chaotic in her veins and no vampire so far had been able touch her mind without being brought to their knees in indescribable agony.

In fact, the last time a vampire had gone head to head with Jane’s natural defences— a white-blonde Parisian vampire named Lafayette with an affinity to cause long lasting amnesia— he had simply tried, screaming and straining until he expired. Aro had ordered him killed once it became apparent that the force of what Jane had unwittingly done to him had left him barely able to speak let alone serve. The inner circle had accepted this handicap to their absolute power out of necessity to keep Jane close, but Chelsea had never been able to let it go that Jane went unaffected and unchecked, her mental privacy so absolute.

“Always such an angry little thing,” Chelsea mocked, smirking around at the carnage. “You know, I really thought our time apart would have calmed you down.” Her abilities poked at Jane a second time, just slight enough to be safe.

Late one afternoon in 1740-something, Chelsea had almost died by Jane’s hand when it had accidentally slipped that the older vampire could delicately manipulate Jane’s relationships without torturing herself, though it took a skilful, butterfly application, excruciatingly slow and insidious to evade Jane’s detection and defences, with an end result was pathetic at best. Aro had ordered them apart for ninety years after the fight had been subdued, favouritism Chelsea had branded it when she had heard Jane had survived the transgression (sure as hell nobody else would have), and once they did come back into contact almost a century later the bad blood had only run cold. Her application of it now was just blatant provocation.

“I’ll be calm as I take a long nap at your overdue wake.”

Chelsea sneered suddenly. “Please. I know as well as you do that you’re stomping that foot on ice far too thin to risk adding any bite to your bark.”

It was Jane’s turn to laugh. “You have the natural edge when it comes to barking, Chelsea.”

“Jane.” Alec’s sharp voice cut off the rage her comment had invoked in her antagoniser as he strode past them without halting. “Marcus demands your presence. Now.”

Jane gritted her teeth again and Chelsea was already back to her smug default.

“Oops.” She feigned Aro’s sugar with one hand over her mouth as she followed Alec away, knowing damned fine and happily so that Jane was probably in trouble if Marcus wanted her so suddenly.

#Volturi #Twilight #New Moon #Bella Swan #Jane Volturi #Aro Volturi #Marcus Volturi #Chelsea #Fanfiction #I guess #Please dont eat musicians

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simplysparrow14 · 4 years

Text

Why I absolutely hate Korra.

Gifted Children do not make good protagonists.

I really hate Korra. Like, I fucking cant stand her as a characters. She’s honest to god one of the only characters besides Kylo Ren that I just full on hate.

She’s whiny, She’s cocky, she’s too brash for her own good. She got the biggest overinflated ego the size of Mount Fuji. She bitches and moans when something doesn't go her way, and then as the balls to blame other characters or blow up in their faces when she’s starts the fire herself!

She leaps into battle before she thinks and when the villain of the season kicks her ass to the curb, we’re supposed to sympathize with her and feel sorry for her, even though She deserved everything she had coming to her

Her god complex is bigger then the fucking sun and she gets all pissy when someone even mildly calls her out on her bullshit or even gives her polite constructive criticism on her Avatar duties.

She never learns diplomacy or peacekeeping or patience or empathy for others around her or when to shut the fuck up and take a step back before you get the shit kicked out of you.

One of the prime examples of her being absolute stupid was when She and Mako go to one of Amon’s rallies, and after figuring out that Amon was a bloodbender who locked his own brother up in a cage, they decide to go to the rally to boldly claim that Amon is a bender without presenting any physical or damning evidence that suggest otherwise.

“How in the world do we beat him?”

“We cant. Any attack we throw at him, he’ll redirect with his mind. That’s how he’s been able to challange any bender.”

“So much for our ambush....If we stay here, we’re toast. But there’s another way to beat him!”

“How?!”

“This whole time, Amon’s been one step ahead of us. But finally, we have an advantage...We know the truth about him!”

“If we expose him as a bender in front of all his supporters, we can take away his true power!”

.......huh...... WHAT?..... A-are you serious?! THAT’S YOUR ADVANTAGE AGAINST AN ALL-POWERFUL BLOODBENDER ?! WE’RE REALLY GOING TO BLATANTLY CALLING HIM OUT IN FRONT OF ALL OF HIS FOLLOWERS WITHOUT EVEN A SHRED OF EVIDENCE?!

what makes matters worse is that they don’t even take Tarrlock with them. They just leave him in his cage. Like, yeah, he tells them to go because he doesn’t want Amon’s supporters and the rest of the public to know he was Amon’s brother, but honestly, that hasn't stopped Korra before from forcing someone to give her what she wanted. She’s not lik a regular person who has to abide by the rules of Rebublic City, she’s the goddamn fucking avatar: If she wanted a fucking statue erected in her honor, she would order that in a fucking heartbeat.

ANd May I remind you, lovly readers, that Korra literally manhandled a non-bender activist to give her information about Amon’s next rally not just a few episodes before this?

So her acting this respectful and this pulled-back is so out-of-character and jarring to watch because the show clearly states that Korra is a bad bitch and if she wants something really badly, she’ll fucking get it herslef, no questions asked.

And then when Amon corners them in a storage room and beats the shit out of them with bloodbending and chi-blocking, we have to feel sorry for them. We have to feel sorry to Korra All because her “expertly” constructed plan didn't work out, and that Amon took the brats bending away when she busted into his rally uninvited without evidence to show to his followers, or even a half-ass plan on how to effectively beat the shit out of him if he refused to go down easily.

Look, I get that we have to have dramatic tension for the story, but that doesn't mean that the characters have to lose a majority of their very limited brain-cells in order for it to happen. We should not have to sacrifice a character’s personality in order to progress the story.

There’s also the fact that during Season 1 when Korra literally barges into Tarrlocks’ office unannounced to let the non-benders out of jail and berates him about how he’s intimidating people into falling in line with his views and opinions

“You’re using your power to oppress and Intimidate people!”

Its only when Tarrlock pulls the Reverse Uno Card on Korra’s superiority complex that we as the audience get the first and maybe last good spot of introspection and interesting character development within this show

“And you don't? Isn’t that what you came here to do? Intimidate me into releasing your friends?”

But then, its all thrown out the window when Korra goes full ape-shit and tries to fuck-up Tarrloq, and we’re again supposed to feel bad for her when Tarrlok fuck her up right back with blood-bending, kidnaps her and locks her up in a metal box.

Your avatar, every one.

All throughout these scenes, we never get any notion that she’s gaining character development.

She never takes a step back, never looks into the situation, She never shuts the fuck up, never considers that maybe, just maybe, her plan might not work. There’s no patience in her what so ever and it infuriates me to no end!

And yet, the show treats her as through she did nothing wrong! They treat her like a goddamn goddess, and its so....

There’s also the fact that throughout the series, Korra goes through more pitty parties and anger bursts then most characters have in their entire series run and in the end, her woes/ temper tantrums are forgiven because, well, she’s the protagonist.

Your boyfriend calls you out on your bullshit about the civil war happening between your home-tribe and the sister tribe? Crash his place of work and throw his desk across the room and tell him that he’s a traitor just for doing his job--A job he;s wanted to be apart of since he was little, no less.

Cant figure out how to work with the wind panels without getting punched around? Don't be the leaf and burn a historic Airbending training device to ash!

“That was a Two-thousand year old historical treasure… WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?!”

“There’s nothing wrong with me! You’re a terrible teacher!”

Cant handle being called a wuss? Challenge the mastermind of a political movement with chi-blocking and blood bending to a fight under your previous incarnations statue and then cry like a bitch when he kicks your ass.

No Korra, you don’t get to cry when it’s clearly you’re fault it happened in the first place. Look, I get that you’ve just had a low-key high-key traumatic moment.....But you don’t have brain-cells. You knew he could take away bending--You saw it at their rally not just a few days ago-- so i don’t know why you thought that challenging him to a one-on-one duel in a dark, abandoned place where no one can hear you scream was an perfect idea you dumb bitch.

Aparently,

Its also apparent within the series that she never has to work for her character development, or work for what she wants.

People often remark that Korra was coddled at the Avatar, but I feel as if Spoiled is the best word:

In the beginning of the series when the White Lotus comes to the southern Water Tribe to Search for the Next Avatar, we're Introduced to Korra punching a hole through the wall, spewing flames from her fists and using water to put out the fire. Hell, the first sentence that we hear from the brats mouth is “I’m the Avatar. You gotta deal with it.”

Look, no one likes gifted children (unless those children are yours). Gifted Children are probably the worst type of main character to have, because the whole point of your main character is that people are suppose to relate to them. People cant relate to gifted children, because we, as normal human beings, are not all gifted.

Cut to 15 years later, and we learn that Korra hasn't even left the Southern Water Tribe. Teachers have been flown into the water tribe to teach Korra more on the elements. And at the every start of the first episode, we see her pass her her fire bending test, with her commenting on how already she’s mastered Water and Earth.

The whole point of the Avatar journey was that the Avatar had to journey to find their teachers and experience the world they needed to protect. When you take away that Journey, you’re just leaving the Avatar to be handed everything on a silver platter.

During Season 2 when Kaiju Korra nearly gets her ass handed to her, Jinora force-ghosts her way into the battle and gives Korra the upper-hand during the battle with Vaatu, almost entirely erasing any the trace amounts of danger that the battle was trying to portray.

There’s also the fact that in the middle of Season 2 when she’s fighting Eska and Desna, suddenly out of no-where she can Spirit bend (Or as I like to call it, Spirit-pacification) without so much as a single day of training. Like, talk about pulling out an ability out of your ass.

There’s also the fact that during her visit to the Su-yin’s home, she masters Metelbending out of no-where and then has to gawl to show off in front of Bolin, who’s been trying to metelbend for a while.

There’s also the fact that she’s never punished for any of her actions.

When Amon takes her bending away, she never as a moment to reflect on how her actions affected her future or the rest of the avatar cycle. We never see her come to terms that facing Amon head on resulted in her losing her bending. And when it looks like it does have an impact on her, Ghost Aang pops up right out of nowhere, takes pitty on her and gives her back her bending. Oh, and we’ll also throw in the Avatar State as well, as a treat.

Right after she destroys the alleyway in the first episode of Season 1, Tenzin busts her out of jail and says to Lin that he’ll cover all the damages Korra caused!

There’s also the incident where Tenzen told Korra not to go to the Pro-Bending tournament. And when Tenzen does have to drag her ass back to Air-temple Island, he remarks that Pro-bending is what she needed, completely Ignoring the fact that she disobey’d a direct order from her master and thus is never punished for it!

She’s never called out on her bullshit regarding her very sudden kiss with Mako when the man openly and explicitly said that he was dating another woman.

(Like, girl, i get it. you have feelings for him, I get it. But when someone says: “I’m already dating someone right now.” and they admit they might be also have very confusing feelings for you as well, You back the fuck up and give them time to make a decision. You just don’t go: “Oh you already have a girlfriend? oh, smoochy smoochy time then.”)

Omg, it’s like the show was entirely written by male writers who have no idea how to write romance or develop unique and interesting characters who are not homicidal bat-shit insane brats who cry’s when they’re not the center of attention

I guess my big question towards Korra’s character is… Why?

Why do we have to root for a character who doesn't struggle, doesn't think she has to try to master her bending and that everything should come easily? How are we supposed to connect to someone when they blow up and get all pissy when someone even just lightly insults their god complex?

Why is she a waterbender when she has the temperament of a fire-bender? Why is she getting her ass kicked by every villan if she’s the all powerful avater? Why is she the avatar when she doesn't have when a shred of humbless or appreciation for the bending she’s been given? Why do we have to put up with a brat of a protagonist for 3+ seasons?

She is, in the bluntest term I can say, a meaningless character. She holds no purpose to the story or its messages or its themes.

Aang was meaningful because it was his story and he was a 12 year old with the weight of the fucking world on his shoulders as both the last living Airbender and the Avatar, all while trying to navigate a world that did not and would not uphold his peaceful beliefs.

Katara was meaningful because she broke down social norms by not only mastering the both the female -only water-bending techniques and Male-only water-bending fighting style, but also the scary-as-fuck-blood-bending. She showed the duel sides of being a bad ass strong independent woman.

Toph was meaningful because she was an all-powerful earthbender who was fucking blind, showing that disabilities cant stop you from kicking ass.

Sokka and Suki were meaningful because they were two badass people who didn't need bending to kick fire-nation ass. You don’t need to be like everyone else to save the world.

Zuko was meaningful because his failures,and mistakes and abuse and scar showed people that no matter how awful your current situation was, you’re able to build a better life for yourself through hard work, self-love and good people who love you.

Korra is meaningless. She is selfish, and spoiled and the only message she has to tell “Be a brat, cry a lot, and throw temper tantrums until you get what you fucking want.”

Fuck Korra. Fuck her character. I’ve never seen a character so poorly executed in my life, and I surly hope I dont ever get to see that ever again.

#Legend of Korra #The Legend of Korra #Avatar #Atla #AtloK #Korra #Mako #Bolin #Asami #Tenzin #Amon

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kob131 · 4 years

Text

https://rwdestuffs.tumblr.com/post/625097351282966528/done-dirty-ironwood

So, the guy who is declaring martial law, and thought to himself “The people who attacked Beacon hacked our systems, but they totally won’t do it again” is supposed to be the “good guy” right?

A. Better than the mass murdering, child abandoning, family endangering woman but then again considering your hard on...

B. Gee, almost like the show is saying he’s not entirely in the right OR wrong...

C. “ Watts: (sighs) While cybersecurity has been stepped up in Atlas, as usual, none of the code was updated in Mantle. “ Wanna try that again Dudeblade.

Okay, I guess we can’t be totally unfair to him. After all, he’s just being paranoid. Paranoid to the point that he’s become a nervous wreck…

And Yang being depressed to the point of doing nothing to help her sister is so terrible of her right? Since we’re mocking PTSD and mental issues here...

How is he not a grimm magnet?- Starting to get the vibe that that whole thing about them being attracted to negative emotions is a load of bull, but whatever. Subject for another time.

Like the subject of him pistol whipping an Alpha Beowolf and surviving a crashing plane in Volume 3 showcasing he’s too competent to die to a Grimm under normal circumstances. Nah that’s show don’t tell and the act of acknowledging that would probably kill Dudeblade.

Well, I’ll say this much: He looks better with a beard.

Now let’s see, what Wizard of Oz character is Ironwood supposed to be based off of?

Ah yes, the heartless Tinman. Fun fact: The Wiki labeled this as “Terminator.Png”, so make of that as you will.

In the original lore, the Tin Man wanted a heart so that he could love. But the story showed that he had that ability to begin with.

You know, like Ironwood repeatedly showing warm emotion throughout Volume 7 and having the right idea but loses it all due to his own human flaws.

Ironwood’s… recent behaviors is troubling. Nora has pointed out that Mantle is bearing the brunt of the burden while Atlas has to shoulder… Nothing.

She talks to Ironwood, not Atlas as a whole dumbass. You’ll even prove it later.

Ironwood could tell Mantle about the plan so that he could hire Hunters there to guard the tower against threats, and also maybe get some programmers to, I don’t know… Keep it safe from hackers?

Nora: I am so sick of secrets! If we just told everyone about Amity, about Salem--

Ironwood: We can’t!

Everyone turns to look at Ironwood.

Ironwood: If we talk about Amity now, we risk Salem’s forces, who we know are here, working to sabotage it. If we tell them about Salem now, we risk falling to the Grimm before we can reunite Remnant.

Stealing argument from the show now are we?

The label the PNG image has is right. Ironwood is the Terminator. Bad under pressure, easily hackable, and only knowledgeable in combat but nothing else.

... So Yang.

Dudeblade: *goes into a snarling fit of rage*

Yeah just as I thought.

Considering that he’s abandoning Mantle with no real plan to actually stop Salem, it’s obvious that he’s doing what Oz is doing: He’s just desperately trying to hold off the inevitable.

Gee, almost like that’s a theme of something...

Which I think is a post for another time.

Can’t wait to see you fuck yourself in the ass then.

Nora here is correct. No matter what Ironwood says, no matter what he tells himself, Mantle took on the burden of completing that tower. Atlas?- They never had to fear grimm attacks. They never had to fear losing their jobs (At least until jacques decided to take them away and blame Ironwood for it). Mantle was a police state once the main characters got there, and all their resources were being diverted to Atlas.

Not pictured- A mention of Atlas.

Also not pictured- Ironwood talking about AMITY, not ATLAS getting the resources.

Atlas had an embargo. But as far as we’ve seen, Atlas if full of a bunch of rich assholes that don’t give a crap about the rest of the world.

Not the point of the embargo, which is to prevent mutual destruction among the kingdoms by killing each other with Dust from Atlas.

Then we consider that Ironwood declares martial law and orders the arrest of the titular team.

So suddenly the team is in the right, even as you love to make the case they’re monsters?

Funny how shit changes according to your political whims...

In all honesty, Blake and Yang made the right call in telling Robyn of the plan, because it got her to back off of stealing the supplies, even only for a bit.

Proof? ... No?

Gee, trying to excuse characters from their actions- Guess that’s something that’ll never change with Dudeblade.

But then we get this bombshell:

Ironwood just wanted to lure out Watts. He had no plan. Just like Oz, he was only delaying the inevitable.

‘Ready to launch’ dumbass. That’s the lie.

What Ironwood is doing is dividing the people. He is basically giving Salem exactly what she wants: A divided humanity.

You know, what the show itself is saying. So how is this a failure of the show’s and not your dumb ass again?

I mean… The is the guy who brought an ARMY to a celebration of PEACE that started because HIS KINGDOM started a war. Are we really supposed to see him as the “good guy” here?

Repeating Ozpin I see.

Ozpin: (standing up) And fear will bring the Grimm. A guardian is a symbol of comfort. But an army is a symbol of conflict. There's an energy in the air now, a question in the back of everyone's minds... (gestures to the display) "If this is the size of our defenses, then what is it we're expecting to fight?"

Say, wasn’t Ozpin ‘done dirty’? How come you’re ripping off his own arguments?

He can keep saying that “it’s the right decisions that are the toughest to make” and all that bullcrap, but as we all know: The road to hell is paved with good intentions. The guy refuses to admit fault in any capacity whatsoever, instead blaming others for his own shortcomings.

Ironwood: I wanted Ozpin's advice.

Oscar: And his advice probably would've been to keep your secrets. When we first got here, you already knew that wasn't the right course. You had a new plan.

Ironwood: It's time to give up on that plan.

Ironwood straightens up, lowering his hand from his face.

Ironwood: It's all falling apart.

Oscar: The panic you were worried about? It's already happening. The secrets you're keeping? They're about to be in the open anyway. It's time.

Ironwood turns and looks at Oscar.

Oscar: Tell the truth.

Ruby: You're not alone.

Ironwood looks over to see that Ruby has approached him with an encouraging smile.

Ruby: We can do this together.

Ironwood nods and smiles.

Ironwood: Thank you. Oscar, I think it's time you get back to the Academy.

Oscar: I think you're right.

Oscar rests his hand on the Relic again. While Ironwood speaks, Winter brings out her Scroll and starts using it, heading over to him.

Ironwood: Miss Hill, Councilman Sleet, Councilwoman Camilla, there are some things you need to know about. Let's figure out how we can help Mantle… together.

You were saying?

He has the “My way, or no way” mentality. He literally shoots a teenager because he’s throwing a temper tantrum over not being treated the way he wants to. It was his drones that got hacked. It was his system that got compromised. It was his lack of empathy that made team RWBY turn against him.

All points (except the temper tantrum you fucking hypocrite) the show already made.

Wanna know what else it made?

‘Team RWBY did the same thing to Ironwood Ozpin did to them’

‘Team RWBY betrayed Ironwood and caused this division too’

‘Team RWBY and Ironwood are both at fault.’

But hey, those don’t fit your politics.

And yet, he refuses to see that he’s become the thing that he fears most.

Here’s another post that also goes in detail about what Ironwood did.

Oh hey, Dudeblade agreeing with the show!

Also: self sourcing. Source denied.

So, remind me again why we should at all trust him when he refuses to trust anyone not blindly loyal to him?

Because he’s not that and you’re being a biased asshat.

Which, I must add:

SOUNDS DANGEROUSLY FAMILIAR!

What, did you listen to yourself for once?

But congrats on making the show look good as you rip points straight from the show itself. Which I’m all but certain of was the opposite of your intention given your series. While also outing the series as your personal bitchings as NONE of this discusses the show itself.

The ultimate self fucking.

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ugly-crying-over-bucky-barnes · 4 years

Text

Burned Part 9

Summary: Alfie Solomons is in need of a secretary. Tommy Shelby mentions a young woman in need of employment. From there the two step into a dangerous dance together.

Part 9: Arguments ensue over the Shelbys and Louise celebrates a birthday

The next morning, Louise called Alfie and told him she was feeling under the weather and wouldn’t be going to work. The man didn’t mind and didn’t suspect anything. Then she rang Ishmael and said Alfie allowed her the car for the day. The boy gave her the keys without much hesitation. Alfie treated Louise like royalty so he wasn’t in any position to question. It may not have been fair to lie, but there was something she had to do.

Louise pulled up the gravel drive, amazed by the beauty and intense power of the Arrow House. It was fairly similar to the estate she grew up in, but it had been some time since she’d seen such a stately home.

She walked up the steps with a bouquet of condolence lilies. After ringing the doorbell, she realized how nervous she was. There was no telling how a man like Tommy Shelby mourned.

Polly answered the door; a look of surprise crossed her face. “Louise, I haven’t seen you in nearly a year.” The last time, the young woman was in Birmingham she was clutching a blood-soaked sweater to her stab wounds.

“Ms. Gray, it’s so nice to see you again. I was saddened to hear the news about Grace, I heard she was a lovely woman.”

Polly had a feeling Louise was raised to be a socialite even if she never became one. But every occasion, happy or sad, had a set of etiquette and demeanor. And although she fit the role well, Louise did seem genuine. “Thank you, dear. I’ll let Tommy know you stopped by.” Polly said gently and took the flowers.

“Is he not home? Have I come at a bad time?” Louise was hoping to give her condolences to the widower.

“I’m afraid he’s absent at the moment.” Tommy’s aunt sighed heavily. She knew he was out in the pastures and there would be nothing to coax him back. He was in such a state. “He hasn’t been seeing anyone lately.”

“Oh no, of course.” Louise nodded. “I can’t imagine what he’s going through. I don’t want to intrude.”

Polly had no ill feelings toward the woman. In fact, she was glad to she’d recovered so well from the attack. “Do you want to come in for tea?” She offered. “Ada’s here as well.”

“That sounds lovely, thank you, but I should get back. I want to return Alfie’s car soon.”

Concern set on Polly’s face at the mention of that name. “Alfie. Alfie Solomons?” She asked slowly.

“Yes, Tommy helped me get a job in the bakery.” Louise thought it was strange that Polly, who Alfie said was a key piece of the Shelby company, didn’t know about the arrangement.

“He…” The older woman pinched the bridge of her nose with a weary groan. She cursed her nephew for making such a foolish decision. “Love, that man is dangerously unhinged.”

“Oh, Ms. Gray, it’s alright.” Louise grew uncomfortable. She didn’t want to hear someone judge Alfie when they didn’t know him as well as she did. “I am aware of Alfie’s business dealings.” Proper and polite even under the eyes of scrutiny. They were two women who were waist-deep in gang activity but she needed to be wary. Her loyalty lay with Alfie and Polly’s obviously lay with her family.

Polly studied her face. “Maybe I misjudged you. You may be naïve or maybe you like being under his wing. Just know that there are consequences to that.” She wasn’t criticizing, merely observing. She’d worked this job long enough.

Louise swallowed and stepped back. It was hard to hear the questions she’d asked herself at one point. “Please tell Mr. Shelby I’m sorry for his loss. Good day.” She said stiffly and returned to the car.

“Be careful, men like him get restless.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

On the drive back, Louise couldn’t help but ruminate on Polly’s warning. Was she naïve or did she get thrills from danger? Was that really a reason to be with a person? Was Alfie with her for the right reasons? Would he ever tire of her?

It was late afternoon when Louise returned to her apartment. Unbeknownst to her, Alfie was waiting and had been for an hour.

He’d been in a frenzy ever since he asked Ishmael to call on Louise to make sure she was okay and didn’t need medication for her illness. Ishmael told him about giving her the car, unaware of her faux illness. The poor young man was still smarting after Alfie whacked him on the upside of the head and berated him about being thick.

After telling Ishmael off, Alfie was standing across from Louise’s apartment. He was two minutes from going to call for help to look for her.

When he saw her arrive, he headed towards her. “’Bout to lose me fucking mind.” His booming voice started Louise and made her drop her keys.

“Alfie!” She pressed a hand to her heart. “You cannot sneak up on me like that.” She stooped down to retrieve her keys.

His face was already turning red since he’d worked himself up enough before she’d even arrived. “Where’ve you been, eh?” She could see he was deeply angered. It wasn’t a fit of temper flaring because of irritation. No, he’d been moved to a fierce displeasure.

“I said I was home for the day. Then I ran some errands when I felt up to leaving the flat.” She turned her back to him while opening the door.

Alfie stormed inside once it was unlocked.

Louise stood dumbfounded. “Why, yes, Alfie, do come in.” She muttered sarcastically under her breath. She followed behind him.

“You’re fucking lying to me.” He paced in the front hall like a caged tiger. “You lied to me and you lied to me fucking staff!”

“I’m-”

“Don’t.” He stopped and held up a finger. His jaw was twitching from how hard he was clenching his teeth. His eyes were wide and he looked ready to kick off. “Dozens of times I called.” His voice climbed in volume. “Called your neighbors, they said you’d left hours ago. Called ‘bout everyone in Camden looking for you!” He pointed at her accusingly. “So ‘fore you answer, think, yeah? Because you don’t know what I can find out, love.”

Louise stared at him, disgusted by how threatening his tone was. “I am an adult and I’m free to go about my own life.” She retorted and crossed her arms over her chest. “I don’t need to ask for Alfie Solomons’s permission to go anywhere.”

His nostrils flared. “You think it’s fucking fine to just disappear, not telling anyone where you’ve fucking gone?” He demanded, his eyes narrowing.

“Since when do I have to tell anyone where I’m going?” She exclaimed.

“Unbelievable,” He slammed his cane down on the hardwood floor almost making the flat shake around him, “acting like a fucking child. Just tell me where you were.”

“I’m acting like a child?” She scoffed and threw her hands up. “I’m not the one throwing a tantrum, you are!”

“Where were you?” He repeated.

“I was out.”

“Louise, I swear…”

“What? You’ll punish me like one of your men?” She challenged with a sharp snap.

Alfie felt like he’d been kicked in the stomach. “I would…would never.” His voice broke out in shame. The fact that it had even crossed her mind made him sick. He never wanted to be grouped in with the men who would abuse a woman. “Fucking hell, Lou, can’t you see I’m terrified to lose you?”

“You aren’t losing me, you daft man. If I was going to leave you, I’d tell you.” She saw the crack in his anger but she was still upset by how he approached her. So she didn't back down.

“That’s not what I’m talking ‘bout.” He muttered and chewed at the inside of his cheek. He gripped his hands together anxiously as he stayed under her gaze.

“Then what in the world are you so worked up about?”

He bit his tongue but couldn’t hold back. “I ain’t ‘bout to lose you like that!” He shouted.

They faced each other in the hall, the room falling silent for a moment. Alfie’s shoulder heaving and his face twisted in grief.

“Like what? I don’t know what you’re on about.” Her voice quieted as they arrived at the root of his anger.

He grimaced and scrubbed a hand over his face, fidgeting in distress. “Like Grace. Like fucking Tommy Shelby. I ain’t gonna let some fucker take you from me because of what I do.” His voice wavered and he was on the brink of breaking down. “My worst fear is losing you, Louise. And my enemies can’t know that, yeah, or they’ll exploit it. This lifestyle, right, it’s fucking dangerous and I’ve put you right in the middle of it. I feel guilty but I…” He looked down at her hands. It was overwhelming to divulge in such personal feelings. It was so rare for him to even express such emotions. Now he had to learn how to put words to those emotions for Louise. She made it a bit easier but he was still working on it. “But I can’t be without you, Lou.”

“Well, you don’t have to.” She tried to get him to look at her again. But he kept his eyes downcast. “Alfie, I’m not going anywhere, I’ve already told you that.”

“What if you end up dead ‘cause of me?” His blue eyes slowly met her face again. He looked wracked with guilt and worry, his brow furrowed.

Louise’s voice stuck in her throat for a moment. It was hard to see him in such a state because she wasn’t confident in her ability to comfort him. She could only do her best. “Th-that won’t happen.” But it was impossible to say for sure. “Alfie, no one is guaranteed tomorrow.” She led him over to the parlor to sit. Wrapping her arms around him, she let him lean on her. She pressed soothing kisses to the side of his face. “The only thing I’m concerned about is spending my time with you. Because, in the end, that’s what matters to me. I don’t care how much time we have left, I care that I’m with you.”

Alfie buried his face in the crook of her neck, closing his eyes. He tried to steady his breath but had gotten so worked up it would take some time before he evened out again. “I’m no good, Lou.”

“You’ve told me that before but I still don’t agree.” She whispered and held him close.

He sighed deeply and knew he could never change her mind. They sat in silence, Louise rubbing his shoulder and kissing him every so often. Finally, Alfie had calmed down enough to be rational.

“Where were you?”

The accusation tone had left his voice so Louise was honest. “I went to pay my respects to the Shelbys.” She answered.

“Fucking hell.” He grumbled and lifted his head. “Right, I guess I can’t control where you go. But I would like a warning so I don’t lose me fucking mind again.”

Louise could compromise and nodded. “Okay, I’m sorry, I just didn’t think you’d be happy with where I was going.”

He sat back and rubbed his eyes. The amount of worry for her had exhausted him. “I know you trust the Shelbys more than I do. But you need to be fucking careful with ‘em.”

“They’ve only treated me kindly.”

“I know…I know.” He rested his elbows on his knees and hunched over slightly. He wouldn’t launch into another argument with her. One was more than enough for a long time. “But just please, exercise caution.” He pled.

Sensing the desperation behind his words, she nodded. “Alright, next time I’ll tell you and we can discuss it.” She suggested. “I’m sorry for upsetting you.” She leaned forward to touch his cheek and guide his eyes back to her.

“M’sorry for yelling.” He looked embarrassed. “Weren’t right, you deserve better treatment than that.”

“I know you didn’t mean it.” She pressed her forehead to his. “I love you, Alfie, that’s not going to change.”

Alfie wasn’t positive. He was a foul-mouthed sinner with blood on his hands. In any other world, Louise would be with someone who truly deserved her. But she persisted and remained with him. He wasn’t sure if he was the luckiest man in the world, or selfishly evil for keeping her by his side for his own benefit.

As if she could read his mind, she spoke again. “You’re stuck with me.” She informed him with a smile.

He chuckled weakly and tucked a curl behind her ear. He drew away to look into her eyes. The hazel flecks shining with adoration for him. She looked at him in a way no one else ever had. And he was sure no one else ever would. He was aware that he would only have eyes for her for the rest of his life. “Lou, I’d follow you to the fucking ends of the Earth if you asked me to. I’m yours.”

That was it. Alfie was surrendering. Releasing the doubts and falling to his knees in front of her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was encouraging to know that even when faced with a difficult issue, Louise’s relationship with Alfie could endure. In fact, she felt like it was even stronger. A real relationship dealt with the real world. She couldn’t have the fluffy relationships from the romance novels she read as a teenager. They simply did not exist.

She much preferred Alfie anyways. The sly glances he gave her throughout the day and the subtle touches warmed her heart. There was a major difference between Alfie at work and Alfie in private. There was a reputation that needed to be upheld. Louise didn’t change that if anything she enhanced it. Anyone who worked with them knew she was a major trigger. A gangster’s woman was sacred, the sole person on the Earth who had access to his heart. She wasn’t disposable. She was above all else. A Medusa to others. One glance could massively fuck you over.

Louise wasn’t very fond of being feared. If anything, she felt a little lonely. No one, except for Ollie would speak to her unless it was work related. And even then they preferred going to Ollie.

She’d made friends outside the bakery but she often worked long hours so it was hard to socialize. Only by her own choices though. Louise was dedicated to keeping Alfie’s life organized if to just ease his stress by a fraction. Plus she never wanted to be the young socialite who wandered around the house, bored and drunk before noon. Work gave her purpose.

“Lou, s’getting late. Why don’t you head home, love?”

She was sat at her desk when Alfie came to hover in the doorway between them. “I will after I’ve typed this up.” Her eyes remained fixed on the paper in front of her.

“You don’t have to finish everything today.” He leaned against the doorjamb and crossed his arms over his chest.

“You said you needed it by tomorrow.” She replied and mindlessly kept typing.

“Right, well, fuck what I said. Yeah, now I’m saying I don’t need it by tomorrow.”

Louise stilled her hands and looked up. “Are you going to say something different tomorrow.” She raised an eyebrow. “Because I’d rather get it done than face the wrath of Alfie Solomons tomorrow.”

He chuckled and straightened up. “C’mon, you, I’ll walk ya home.” He offered and turned to get his things.

“Sir.” A man jogged up to Louise’s desk.

“What?” Alfie grunted as the burden of work returned.

The dark haired boy looked no older than eighteen. The mere action of approaching Alfie made him appear ill with worry. His eyes were wide and he stood on edge, ready to bolt at any moment. “Sabini’s men, a few of ‘em threatened the pub owner down the street. He’s come to complain.”

Alfie’s face clouded over. Things weren’t well in London, especially on the Jewish front. Sabini was getting more confident and toeing the lines. With the possible threat from the Changretta’s, Alfie was starting to really lose his temper with the Italians. Even more so than before.

“Well, that’s fucking fantastic, innit?” He threw his hands up. “You tell him, yeah, that I’ll meet with him in an hour.” He pulled his hat on with a note of finality.

�� “Alfie,” Louise stood up and touched his arm for comfort. “You should meet with him now. I can stay for a bit or I’ll walk myself home.” She suggested in a steady voice.

“No.” He shook his head and checked his pocket watch before stuffing it in his pocket. “M’walking you home now. He can wait.”

“Sir, he’s very agitated.” The young man interjected. “He’s insisting that you…”

Alfie gave him a sharp glare. “Did I fucking mumble? Am I speaking another language? I am going to walk out them doors to bring Miss Barnes home then I will return. Only then will I speak to him. Not before. Is that fucking clear?”

“Yes, sir.” He stammered and hurried away to relay the message.

Louise slipped on her sweater and gathered up her belongings.

Alfie watched and waited patiently for her. “Too harsh you think?”

She smiled and took his awaiting arm. “You’re always too harsh, but that’s who you need to be for a job like this.” They walked through the bakery and out the back entrance to avoid the disgruntled client. The August night was chilly and the air held warnings of fall.

“Mhm, so you secretly like it then?” Alfie asked coyly. His cane clicked against the cobblestones as they walked side by side. Louise always felt so much safer next to him. It didn’t matter what time of the day it was or where they were. When she was on Alfie’s arm, she felt untouchable.

“What?” Louise’s cheeks went red. “A military captain as a boss?”

“No, as a lover.” He thoroughly enjoyed the small sinful smile that crossed her lips. A mischievous little angel.

“Captain Solomons, I’ve no clue what you’re on about.” She gave him a sly look. “I think you’re the one who wants to hold onto their military title.”

“Not quite.” He shook his head. “Fucking chucked that nonsense once I got back. Didn’t want to keep ‘em.”

“Your medals?” Louise asked as they approached her front stoop. “Why?”

He cleared his throat and shrugged. “What good are they here in London? M’not Captain Solomons anymore am I? What I did there, people couldn’t bother ‘bout could they?” His hat and the dim streetlamps cast a shadow over his face.

“I care.” She insisted and touched his chest. “You fought for our safety. I think that’s honorable and should be celebrated.” Britain did what it could for its veterans. But it could never be enough. Warfare had changed and there was no going back. Now countries could drag out deadly combat for years. The men who served never made it out okay. They either lost something physically or mentally. Who would want to celebrate an event that had so drastically altered them?

“Death innit something to give medals for.” He replied quietly.

Louise felt uncomfortable that she had pressed the matter. “Oh, Alfie, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…”

He smiled and took her hand to kiss her knuckles. “Nothing to apologize for, love.”

She sighed and pressed her cheek to his hand. “Sometimes I just wish I could take on your pain.”

“Why’d you want to do something like that?” His eyebrows knit together.

“Because I love you.” Her hazel eyes landed softly on him. “And it isn’t easy to see someone you love in pain.”

“I know, but then you’d be in pain. Can’t have that now, can I?”

She smiled and let her hand slip from his. “You have work to do, Captain Solomons.” She pecked his cheek. “You can call me when you’re done.”

“Won’t keep you up. Might go on late.” He sighed and tugged on his beard. “Don’t hafta worry ‘bout me.”

“Try not to be so mean.” She teased softly and leaned against the handrail. “Be nice, I’m sure he’s worried.”

He sighed and pouted. “I’ll try me best.” He replied begrudgingly. “Won’t make any promises.”

“Fair enough.”

“See you tomorrow then.” He smiled and waited until she was safely inside. The lamp in the hall turned on and she gave him a loving smile through the window.

~~~~~~~~~

Louise didn’t give him much time to prepare. In fact, she was intending on keeping it from him for as long as she possibly could. But she’d let it slip that her birthday was the following weekend.

“What’s next Thursday’s date, Lou?” Alfie asked when he was elbow deep in paperwork.

“Well, Friday is the fourth, that’s my…” she sealed up instantly before the word slipped out.

He looked up at her over his glasses. “Is your…what?”

Louise just shook her head and shrugged.

He gave her a confused look. “It’s your birthday?” There was a very short list of things that could finish her sentence. And he hoped she didn’t mean to say it was her time of the month. He hated being sidelined for those few days.

She bit her lip but realized Alfie had her beat. “Yes.” She admitted. “My birthday is on Friday.”

“Well, d’ya forget to tell me?” A smile softened his features. “Eh? Silly lass.”

“Not exactly.” She shrugged again and sat on the edge of his desk. “I haven’t celebrated it in a while.” Her voice was sheepish through the admission. “Daniel always forgot or couldn’t be bothered. I guess I’ve just learned not to expect anything for it.”

“Well, that’s not me.” Alfie retorted. “If you’d’ve told me-”

“That’s just it though, Alfie.” She touched his hand. “I didn’t want you to fuss. There’s no reason to.”

His lower lip jutted out. “Well, won’t fuss ‘bout it. Just want to make you feel special, right?”

She shrugged and stood up. “I don’t need you to spoil me.”

“Well, ‘course I’m going to fucking spoil you.” He replied and reached for her hand before she went back to her desk. “Lou, you deserve it.”

“We’ve talked about this before, love, I only need you.” She turned back to him and set her journal down on his desk. “You’d be the best birthday present a girl could ever have.”

Alfie smiled and kissed the top of her hand. “M’still gonna spoil you.” He decided and went back to his work before she could argue with him.

Louise sighed deeply and shook her head. “Most stubborn man in London.” She mumbled and retrieved her things. “Maybe all of Britain. Or the world!”

He chuckled and ran his fingers down the chain of his glasses. “Fucking hell, that girl…”

~~~~~~~~~~~

At his request, Louise stayed over Alfie’s place the night before her birthday. Friday morning, she woke up to a beautiful sight. Her beloved was getting dressed near the bed. He grunted quietly as he pulled on his suspenders, his broad shoulders flexing.

Louise drew the sheets over her chest and smiled as he went about his day. “Is this my present?” She murmured.

He startled a little and turned around. “Fuck thought you were out cold.” He smiled and leaned down to kiss her. “Not your only present, love, I promise you that.”

She cradled his cheeks and gave him a stern look. “Alfie…I told you-”

“Trust me, Lou, I restrained myself.” He pecked her lips a few more times before withdrawing. “Right, I’ve got to head out. You, my love, have the day off. I’ll have Evelyn draw you a bath, relax today, yeah?”

“So I’m supposed to just laze around your home all day?” Louise propped her cheek up to watch him pull on his waistcoat. “Waiting for you to return?” She smiled.

“Well, it’s your place now too, love.” He informed her casually. He pocketed his watch and reached for his hat.

“What?” Louise sat up in shock. “Alfie?”

“That’s one present.” He gave her a playful look. “M’not paying your rent anymore because I’d like to have you here with me. If that’s alright?” He sat down on the bed next to her and sheepishly clasped his hands together. “Sorta more of a present to myself.” He admitted.

She bit back an overjoyed smile. “You want me to come live with you?” She wrapped her arms around him and rested her chin on his shoulder.

“’Course. Have you around all the time? S’fucking heaven, innit?” He touched her hand and let her kiss his cheek. “And, whenever we like, we’ve got a place to escape to as well.”

“Where’s that?” It was impossible to hide the smile. The news was like a dream to her. Spending more time with Alfie was nothing less than a dream come true for Louise.

“Margate, the cottage we stayed at. You liked it a lot, yeah?” He answered, happy to make her so excited. It felt like it was his main purpose at that moment was to make her as happy as possible. The more he could make her smile, the more satisfied he felt.

“You bought it?” Louise’s eyes lit up. “Alfie! I don't even know what to say.”

He laughed and wrapped an arm around her. “Told you, love, you deserve everything.” He murmured into the crook of her neck. “Would give you the fucking world if I could.”

“You have, you already have.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

Alfie promised a relaxing day for Louise and he didn’t fall short. After taking the morning for herself, she took Cyril for a long walk. When she returned, she found her things already brought to the flat. She also discovered a new dress waiting on the bed along with a note from Alfie. She took her time getting ready for her night with him. Evelyn helped her, doing her curls and babbling on about Ishmael bringing her flowers. Then she rambled on about how much happier Alfie seemed now that Louise was in his life. The young woman was intent that the two would marry and have many children in the near future. For the finishing touch, Alfie had gotten her a silver gown that glimmered in the light. It made her feel divine, especially when Alfie returned home and saw her in it. He was speechless for a bit until he let out a ‘fucking hell’ like clockwork.

“One more thing.” He turned her around so he could carefully place a necklace over her collarbone.

Louise held the necklace and gasped softly. “Alfie…” Clear and pure sapphire stones decorated the silver chain.

“Do you like it?” He rested his hands on her shoulders once the necklace was clasped. "Reminded me of the dress you wore when we first went out together."

The sentimental meaning made her heart skip a beat. “It’s too much but I love it.” She murmured and kissed him firmly. “Alright, Mr. Solomons, take me out on the town.”

~~~~~~~~~~

“Evening, Mr. Solomons.” The man at the door greeted him politely, giving a nod of respect.

“Benjamin, how are ya? Wife’s well I trust?” He cleared his throat and went to help Louise out of her coat.

Louise watched Alfie socialize. It was a rare sight to see. He usually went to parties or bars in a manner of business. And business interactions usually didn’t go well, threats were abundant. But now here he was chatting to the man like nothing she’d ever seen before. Louise thought he was always guarded in public.

“His wife runs a great charity, wonderful really.” He told Louise. “Should have you meet her, she’s a lovely woman, this ol’ bastard’s lucky to have her, innit he?”

Benjamin laughed, the older man seemed comfortable with Alfie, unlike the majority of London. “And who’s this then? Never seen you entertain before, Alfie.” He had warm eyes with good intentions. That was most likely why they got along. An untrusting man such as Alfie could find a little leeway here and there.

“This is Louise, very special to me. S’her birthday, actually.” The gangster seemed more than pleased to brag about the beautiful woman on his arm. It made Louise even happier, a feat that seemed nearly impossible after all the gifts Alfie had bestowed on her.

“Well, happy birthday, Louise. Lovely to meet a woman who can put a smile on Mr. Solomons' face.”

Louise squeezed Alfie’s arm. “I try my best.”

“All on the house, as usual. You two have fun now.”

Alfie escorted Louise inside. The bad and dance floor was packed. Loud jazz music almost shook the floor. She stuck close to him so she wouldn’t bump into anyone else. He brought her past the dance floor to a staircase. The second floor overlooked the club below. It was less crowded, a few couples talking intimately at tables, some wallflowers smoking by the railing and watching the dancers below.

They found a table by a corner where it was quietest. Louise leaned over the small table, taking his hands. “Thank you for everything today.” She said gratefully. "Truly, I couldn't be more blessed."

“Everything was good?” He asked making sure she was utterly content with the day.

“Of course, Alfie. You’ve spoiled me so much but being able to spend time with you always makes me happy.”

“Couldn’t even imagine how happy it makes me.”

“Oh really? Wanna bet?”

“Louise?” An unfamiliar voice startled the two out of their moment.

She looked up and dread stuck in her throat when she saw who interrupted them. “Will.” She was in shock to see the man her parents intended for her to marry so many years ago. They hadn’t spoken since Louise eloped with Daniel.

Now he was older, wore an expensive-looking suit, was clearly drunk, and had a petite blonde by his side. It was clear he'd remained in the elite lifestyle and wore it like a badge of honor. Always going out, throwing around money, and draining the trust fund on expensive cars and horses.

“Louise Barnes.” He shook his head, looking amused at the very sight of her. “Tess, this is the girl I was telling you about. From Surrey.”

“Oh!” The blonde’s eyes widened and she giggled. “So, nice to meet you.”

Louise felt Alfie’s hand tighten and his eyes narrowed. It was about to get ugly and Louise wasn't sure Will knew what he was getting himself into.

“Um, Alfie, this is Will. He was a friend of my family.” She introduced awkwardly. She’d told him about her betrothal but they never spoke any further about it. It was a part of her life she would've rather kept locked up. Instead, she was forced to relive it.

“Well, I’d argue I was a bit more than that, Louise. We were meant to be married. For years our parents were planning it.” Will laughed with no attempt to hide his malice. “Then we all found out she’s gone and ran off with a drunkard.”

Will’s girlfriend tittered along with him like it was the funniest thing she’d ever heard. A rich girl throwing her money away instead of relying on it until the day she died.

“How is he then? How’s your husband? What's his name again?"

“He’s passed. I’ve remarried.” Louise lifted her chin and looked him deadset in the eyes.

“Is that so? Louise Barnes managed to find another low life?”

“It’s Solomons now, actually.” Alfie stood up, adjusting the rings on his fingers. “That’ll be Mrs. Solomons to you, mate.” He looked up from under the grim of his hat, casting a menacing shadow over his face. “Will, is it? Name’s Alfie Solomons.”

Realization struck Will’s face. The young male aristocrats were well aware of Britain’s underworld. They often paid for protection, sold their liquor at bars they owned for fun and used bookies for sport. Alfie Solomons was a name on the list of people not to fuck with. It didn’t matter how much money you had or from which family you came from. But a man full of gin loses a sense of danger and will tempt an enraged bear.

“Well, she always wanted to fuck the bad boys, didn’t she?” Will laughed and patted Alfie on the arm.

The gangster plastered on a fake smile and laughed along. A ploy he used to throw off his victims before he set in the final blow. “Aw Lou, he’s just a joker, innit he? Can’t imagine why you passed him up, yeah, real catch.”

She just shrugged, waiting for the switch to flip. It was mildly amusing to watch now that she had learned the psychological strategies he used against opponents. It was as if she were watching a sporting match, a chess game of intimidation. And it helped that Will deserved what was coming to him.

“Fucking hilarious. How ‘bout this one, mate?” Alfie grabbed Will by the arm with an iron grip. “You keep blabbering on ‘bout my wife, gossiping like an old lady? Yeah? And I’ll fucking rip your tongue out an then shove it down your fucking throat.”

The smile dropped off Will’s face. His girlfriend clutched at his arm, the two were stunned by the threat.

“Right. Now, since it’s me wife’s birthday I won’t let you bother her again. So if I see you in my fucking line of vision you’ll lose an eye. That seem fair?” Alfie sized Will up, squinting his eyes at him for a moment. “Yeah…make that both your eyes. Now fuck off.”

They didn’t linger long and Alfie sat down with a heavy grunt. “Fucking lowlife.” He muttered. “Sorry, ‘bout that, love.” He partially regretted making a scene in front of Louise on her birthday. But he wasn’t about to let Will get away with the remarks either.

Louise bit back a smile and pecked his cheek. “You’re lovely.” She murmured affectionately.

He raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Yeah? What makes you say that?”

“You stand up for me.” She moved closer to him, pressing her forehead to his temple so he could hear her over the music. “Men like that are spineless but you…you’re something else. And I love you for that.”

He smiled and took her hand in his again. “Well you’re a woman standing up for, ain’t ya? A husband’s gotta look out for his wife?”

A blush spread over her face. “Sorry about that. It just sort of popped out.” She admitted shyly and fiddled with the collar of his shirt.

“Nah, s’alright. It were nice to say, weren’t it? Just didn’t know you were thinking ‘bout stuff like that, yeah?” He lifted a hand to the nape of her neck, his rough fingers tracing down her spine.

She shivered under his touch and cuddled closer. The distance between them was unacceptable in her view. “Evelyn mentioned it and I guess…” She shrugged slightly. “It sounded nice.”

“Yeah, did sound nice.” Alfie’s heart ached for her. He wanted to give her everything. But he was unsure if he could promise a marriage. He didn’t know if that was a chance he was willing to take on her safety.

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ruffboijuliaburnsides · 4 years

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And Yet, Here We Are (pt4)

One day... one day the fluff will come... but it is not this day.

More voiceless!Jaskier because I am apparently incapable of not trying to get this story out rn, apparently?

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 4) (Part 5) (Part 6) (Part 7) (Part 8) Now on AO3

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“We should get moving,” Geralt said, pushing himself to his feet and offering Jaskier a hand up. “Might be a job in town I can take.”

Right. Because Geralt was still a witcher, and unlike their usual travel arrangement where Jaskier could make enough money to pay his own way (and even Geralt's if money was tight and there weren't any monsters to kill), Jaskier was left relying on the handful of coins he had left and whatever Geralt had or could scrape up. Jaskier pulled in on himself, his expression going pinched, an ache spreading in his chest.

He didn't have any plans to leave Geralt, obviously, especially since the witcher had such a determination to find a way to get his voice back, but it hadn't really hit him that he didn't have much of a choice. Or that Geralt, who was despite appearances and protestations a kind and compassionate person, couldn't leave him in good conscience even if he hadn't already determined to fix things.

It didn't change anything, not really, but it rankled, to think about how few skills he had and how impossible it would be for him to survive right now if he went off on his own.

Geralt crouched across the campsite, gathering his things into his pack until he glanced up at Jaskier and frowned, his eyes searching Jaskier's face. Jaskier moved jerkily, methodically packing up what few of his possessions had been unpacked last night, not wanting to be subject to the scrutiny - or at least not to be aware of it.

"All right, Jaskier?" Geralt asked, his frown clear in his tone.

Yeah, Jaskier said instinctively, then slowly stilled, hands hanging limply at his sides. He hadn't actually tried to say anything since that first day, and the shape of the easy response in his mouth without any sound but the soft exhalation of breath...

"Jaskier?" Geralt repeated, growing concern in his voice. Jaskier waved him off without turning around, resumed his packing and tried to ignore the ache in his chest spreading and intensifying until he was surprised he was still moving and could do anything other than curl into a ball and gasp for air. He couldn't hear Geralt move for a few seconds, but then he heard the familiar sound of Geralt hoisting Roach's saddle up onto the mare's back, and Jaskier let out soft sigh. Geralt was being attentive and gentle and part of Jaskier was desperate for it. But part of him just kept thinking about how he doesn't know of anything that could undo a djinn's magic and how he was pretty sure Geralt didn't either.

They'd travelled together on and off for over a decade, but they'd always spent a few weeks here and there apart, never mind the months in the winter that Geralt would return to Kaer Morhen for whatever it was witchers did all winter. Before he found Geralt at the lake, they hadn't seen each other in nearly a month. Now Geralt had a self-imposed responsibility to fix this, and a mute and relatively helpless Jaskier who couldn't really go off on his own or be left behind for very long at a time.

How long until Geralt started to resent him, and every way he was about to seriously change Geralt's lifestyle in a way he hadn't before?

Jaskier shook himself out of that line of thought after what felt like only a few moments' thought, but must have been longer, because Roach was saddled and packed, the ashes of the fire buried, and he was standing empty-handed in front of his lute case. He couldn't tell if he'd just mindlessly continued to help striking camp or if Geralt had done it around him. He sucked in a sharp breath, and picked up the case so he wasn't left just standing there staring dumbly at it; hopefully that sort of moment wasn't going to become common in his life now.

He started to sling it over his shoulder, but Geralt's hand on his arm stopped him. He frowned up at Geralt, confused, but all the other man did was take the lute case from him, near-reverently, and then went to where Roach stood and carefully but securely lashed it to the top of their packs. Jaskier didn't know how to feel, seeing it up there instead of feeling the weight of it against his back. It was his, it was part of him as much as-- well, as much as his voice had been. Might as well be missing that as well, right?

All the same, as they returned to the road and silently began the last leg to the next town, Jaskier felt like he could breathe better without the reminder of it slung over his shoulder.

The first order of business, according to Geralt, was getting a room at the inn, then Geralt would ask around about work.

"You need paper," Geralt said as they reached the outskirts of the town - really it was barely a village from the looks of it, and Jaskier had the sinking feeling they may not have much luck on that front. "But a room and food comes first," Geralt continued. "And we don't have enough for both yet. So I'll find a lead on work, and we'll get paper after I get paid."

Jaskier had the fleeting thought that this was probably the most explicit Geralt had ever been with him about plans, and oh it only took this to get him to communicate even a little bit? But that wasn't fair - Geralt was aware that Jaskier couldn't exactly ask for more details or clarification if he was as vague or reticent as he usually was, and was trying to make up for it. It was disappointing to hear, but it wasn't like there was much to argue, or much ability he had to argue even if he wanted to. Maybe he could throw a temper-tantrum like a spoiled five-year-old and stomp his feet and refuse to move, but he could use some warm food and a drink, so instead he simply silently followed Geralt as he made his way to the one tiny inn in the village.

Jaskier was used to - when he wasn't exhausted - entering inns a few seconds ahead of Geralt with his lute already out of her case, bombastic and enthusiastic and charming. It helped set people a little bit more at ease when it came to Geralt, or at least distracted them. People had gotten a sight more accepting after "Toss a Coin to Your Witcher" had caught on, but they still got nervous, and couldn't generally said to be friendly. Coming in silently on Geralt's heels was unnerving, especially given the not especially friendly looks they got from the locals. Mostly directed at Geralt, admittedly, but a few of them looked at him with narrowed eyes, like he was suspect himself simply for being in a witcher's company. He got that look sometimes anyway, but most folk were willing to roll their eyes and let him be at least, an eccentric bard who writes fantastic songs and ballads.

It was hard to accept that he wasn't that, anymore.

"Only got one room free," the innkeeper was saying to Geralt, and Jaskier found himself nervously closing the distance between himself and Geralt under the weight of the locals' gazes.

"It's fine," Geralt said, putting some coins on the counter. "Know of anyone with my particular kind of problem?"

"Not I," she responded, sweeping the coins into her pocket and retrieving a key, heading to the stairs to show them to their room. "Tanner just got back from the next town over. Bigger there, got a manor house and all. He might've heard something."

"Appreciate it," Geralt rumbled, and the innkeeper unlocked one of two doors at the top of the stairs. Jaskier smiled gratefully at her at she stepped back to let them enter. Jaskier entered the small room, clean at least, and set his bag and lute down at the foot of the bed. "Can my friend get some food and an ale when he comes down?"

"Sure," she said easily, pocketing another coin as Jaskier turned around. "Just cold sliced chicken sandwiches until supper's cooked, but the bread's fresh."

"Fine," Geralt said, then added as the innkeeper turned to leave, "Thank you." He was clearly working to be more polite, if nothing else, and Jaskier wondered if it was because he felt self-conscious without Jaskier able to be charming and polite, or if he was worried that Jaskier would have trouble if he was too grumpy. Jaskier wasn't sure he wouldn't have trouble anyway, but no point going down that particular road.

Geralt didn't bother to close the door, just checked the straps of his swords, probably more out of habit than an expectation of running into trouble. Or at least, Jaskier hoped so. "I'll go see the tanner," he said. "Let you know if I get any good leads. Might head to the next town if it's close enough and it sounds worthwhile." Jaskier grimaced, thinking about the couple of days minimum that would take, and it didn't sound like he planned to take Jaskier with him. Geralt pressed his lips together. "It's cheaper to keep a room here," he explained. "And probably safer. Just stick to the village proper. I'll let you know if I find anything before I go anywhere."

Jaskier sighed and rubbed his face with a hand. He understood the request to stay inside the village, since he didn't have much in the way of combat abilities, and now he couldn't even shout for help should something happen. And of course Geralt would assume something would happen - in his defense, they often did when he was around. Jaskier had gotten through a lot of his life that Geralt was not around for with a minimum of issues or near-death experiences, but he wasn't interested in tempting fate either.

"I know," Geralt said, voice softening from his business voice to something sympathetic and gentle. "You shouldn't have to be confined even that much. I'm just--"

Jaskier waved him off, exasperated. There was no need for Geralt to explain, especially sounding so much like he cared. Which obviously he did, Jaskier knew he was about the closest thing he had to a friend outside the witchers themselves, but his voice going soft like that just made Jaskier hope too much.

"All right," Geralt relented. "Go eat something. Be back soon one way or another."

Jaskier waited until Geralt had turned and had started down the stairs before he flopped back onto the bed, letting it support him as he convinced himself it was a good idea to go downstairs and get the food and drink Geralt had already paid for. The bed wasn't the nicest, but it was softer than his bedroll, and he was already feeling exhausted somehow despite only walking for a few hours and not doing anything. Maybe he could just sleep until Geralt got back. Then he wouldn't have to think about... well, any of it.

It was tempting, and he almost gave in to the desire, but the door was open and Geralt had paid for the food already and would probably fuss if he hadn't eaten yet when he got back from his search for rumors of paying monster hunting jobs. Jaskier would've groaned as he sat up and pushed himself to his feet, if he could've, and made his way downstairs reluctantly.

"Ah," the innkeeper said when she saw him at the bottom of the stairs. "You get yourself a seat, I'll have food right over for you, lad." Jaskier thought privately that the innkeeper didn't look that much older than him, probably barely 40, but just nodded and found the unoccupied table the closest to being in a corner to tuck himself up in, a ways away from other patrons, who all seemed to be sizing him up.

A few seconds of subdued conversation passed before one of men called out, "'Ey, boy!" Jaskier glanced up despite himself. At least he only looked curious and a little... hopeful? "You that bard what travels 'round with the White Wolf?" Ah. They were hoping for a performance, and Jaskier couldn't breathe, wanted to claw his skin off and disappear. Everything was wrong, and people knew what he looked like, or at least what Geralt looked like, and--

"Oh, leave the boy alone," the innkeeper scolded as she came over with a plate and a mug. "Even if he were, he'd let you know if he were in the mood to play for your stingy arse." The man grumbled, but turned back to his drink, and Jaskier gave the woman a crooked grateful smile that he hoped expressed how much he didn't want to have to answer that question. "You never mind them," she said. "Nosy lot, but they don't mean no harm. You need anything else, dear?" Jaskier shook his head, and she hesitated for a moment, maybe wondering why he hadn't said anything since he walked in, but turned without asking, stopping by the curious man's table to scold him further in a whisper.

Whatever conclusion she'd come to about why he was so quiet, Jaskier decided he liked her quite a lot.

He was done with the sandwich and halfway through his ale when Geralt came striding back in and scanned the room until his eyes landed on Jaskier. As purposeful as he seemed making his way to the table, Jaskier could only guess he'd gotten a good lead.

"Next town over has a wraith," Geralt said gruffly, and Jaskier nodded in understanding. Geralt took his coin purse off his belt and pushed it over to Jaskier. "Should only be a couple days, four at the most." He hesitated, like he wanted to say something more, but laughter broke out at a nearby table and apparently reminded him that they weren't alone in the woods. Jaskier wondered what he'd wanted to say. Instead, Geralt just clapped him on the shoulder, then turned and walked out of the inn.

Jaskier swallowed hard, facing the prospect of a silent few days alone in this village he didn't even know the name of, praying to any god that would listen that Geralt would be all right and come back. He tossed back the rest of his ale and grabbed the coin purse as he stood and made a beeline for the stairs.

"Everything all right, luv?" the innkeeper asked, apparently concerned, and he managed a tight smile and a nod. He didn't want to be down there anymore, with people who might ask questions, even just to be friendly. He didn't want to risk gossip about him showing up with Geralt leading to more questions about whether or not he was 'that bard'.

He closed and locked the door, then flopped face-down on the bed. This was fine. He was not a wilting flower, he was better than this. He wasn't going to get mobbed for not being able to speak, and anyone who was curious about him would probably feel too awkward to bother him once it was clear he couldn't answer. But he still couldn't stand the thought. At least Geralt knew him, and could guess more or less what he was feeling, if not what he was thinking.

Jaskier kicked his boots off, then pulled the pillow to his chest and curled around it, suddenly wishing for Geralt's solid warmth at his back, keeping him grounded, making him feel safe and like things might eventually be okay again. Instead, he felt like he was bleeding out of his body, turning into mist that could be blown away with the slightest breeze.

He didn't move for a long time after that.

(Part 1) (Part 2) (Part 3) (Part 5) (Part 6) (Part 7) (Part 8) Now on AO3

#the witcher #jaskier #geralt #geraskier #voiceless jaskier au #my fic #ayhwa #this one got LONG #which means i'm probably putting up 3 & 4 as chapter 2 on ao3 #my writing #homework what's that I sure don't know #i only know FIC

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ucflibrary · 4 years

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This unusual summer semester has ended and we’re prepping for fall. It’s only a few short weeks until the 2020-2021 academic year begins. It’s certainly going to be an interesting semester. Please remember to follow the Armour Up, Knights campaign to help keep the UCF community safe. Wear your mask, wash your hands, and try to keep 6 feet between yourself and others. By supporting each other, we can come through this stronger on the other side.

Libraries staff has pulled together a few suggestions that cover a whole range of areas including college success, cultural appropriation, investing, and football. Click on the link below to see the full list, descriptions, and catalog links for the featured Back-so-School titles suggested by UCF Library employees.

Welcome to the 2020-21 academic year!

100 Books to Think About by Cynthia M. Kisby College is a place to develop and employ thinking skills to achieve whatever we most desire in life. This book is a starting point to understand how the mind actually works. Written for UCF students by a UCF faculty librarian, this book summarizes expert advice on how to use thinking to take care of our mind, gift, body, people, and world. Although presented as a personally annotated bibliography, this is not a story book. Feel free to skip around to whatever chapter interests you at the moment. Best of all, this online book is a totally free gift to you from the UCF Libraries’ Showcase of Text, Archives, Research & Scholarship (STARS). Suggested by Cynthia Kisby, Administration

College Students: mental health and coping strategies edited by Mery V. Landow College students are subject to a massive input of stresses which require successful and ever-changing coping strategies. These stresses include inside and outside pressures by the world to succeed, financial worries, concerns about uncertain futures, social problems and opportunities since college is often the meeting place for future mates, and homework and tests in multiple and complex subjects requiring preparation and focus with often conflicting priorities. Unsuccessful coping often results in anxiety, heavy drinking, depression and a host of other mental health problems. Suggested by Sandy Avila, Research & Information Services

Go See the Principal: true tales from the school trenches by Gerry Brooks Gerry Brooks is an elementary school principal turned YouTube celebrity who entertains K-12 teachers, administrators, and parents across the country. He tells jokes with the kind of mocking humor that gets a laugh, yet can be safely shared in school. After all, even great schools have bad days -- when lesson plans fall through, disgruntled parents complain, kids throw temper tantrums because they have to use the same spoon for their applesauce and mashed potatoes, and of course, dealing with...The Horror! The Horror!...dreaded assessments. Suggested by Katie Kirwan, Acquisition & Collection Services

Happy Teachers Change the World: a guide for cultivating mindfulness in education by Thich Nhat Hanh and Katherine Weare the first official, authoritative manual of the Thich Nhat Hanh/Plum Village approach to mindfulness in education. Spanning the whole range of schools and grade levels, from preschool through higher education, these techniques are grounded in the everyday world of schools, colleges, and universities. Beginning firmly with teachers and all those working with students, including administrators, counselors, and other personnel, the Plum Village approach stresses that educators must first establish their own mindfulness practice since everything they do in the classroom will be based on that foundation. The book includes easy-to-follow, step-by-step techniques perfected by educators to teach themselves and to apply to their work with students and colleagues, along with inspirational stories of the ways in which teachers have made mindfulness practice alive and relevant for themselves and their students across the school and out into the community Suggested by Megan Haught, Student Learning & Engagement/Research & Information Services

Inseparable: how family and sacrifice forged a path to the NFL by Shaquem Griffin & Shaquill Griffin with Mark Schlabach Much more than a sports memoir, Shaquem and Shaquill Griffin share the previously untold details of the powerful and inspiring story behind the modern NFL’s first one-handed player, and his twin brother’s unrelenting devotion, sacrifice, and love. It’s the story of Shaquem’s understanding of God’s purpose for his life—to inspire others to stop being afraid and to stop making excuses—and his family’s unwavering support in spite of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The Griffins’ unlikely underdog story has already captured the imagination of millions of football fans and physically challenged people around the world. Suggested by Sara Duff, Acquisition & Collection Services

Sold My Soul for a Student Loan: higher education and the political economy of the future by Daniel T. Kirsch American higher education boasts one of the most impressive legacies in the world, but the price of admission for many is now endless debt. As this book shows, increasing educational indebtedness undermines the real value of higher education in our democracy. To help readers understand this dilemma, the book examines how student debt became commonplace and what the long-term effects of such an ongoing reality might be. This work examines this vitally important issue from an unprecedented diversity of perspectives, focusing on the fact that student debt is hindering the ability of millions of people to enter the job market, the housing market, the consumer economy, and the political process. Perhaps most importantly, it explores the new relationship debtor-citizens have to the government as a result of debt, and how that impacts democracy for a new generation. Taken together, these qualitative and quantitative approaches paint a clear picture of the consequences of student debt for America and its citizens, both now and in the future. Suggested by Megan Haught, Student Learning & Engagement/Research & Information Services

Spillover: animal infections and the next human pandemic by David Quammen This work examines the emergence and causes of new diseases all over the world, describing a process called "spillover" where illness originates in wild animals before being passed to humans and discusses the potential for the next huge pandemic. The emergence of strange new diseases is a frightening problem that seems to be getting worse. In this age of speedy travel, it threatens a worldwide pandemic. The author tracks this subject around the world. He recounts adventures in the field, netting bats in China, trapping monkeys in Bangladesh, stalking gorillas in the Congo, with the world's leading disease scientists. He takes the reader along on this quest to learn how, where from, and why these diseases emerge, and he asks the terrifying question: What might the next big one be? Suggested by Megan Haught, Student Learning & Engagement/Research & Information Services

Success in College: from C's in high school to A's in college by Peter F. Burns Peter F. Burns also gives an insider's perspective to the academic semester, in-class behavior, and how and when to approach professors. Perhaps most importantly, there is invaluable advice about the attitude and work ethic that are essential to the development of outstanding college students. Burns uses his own college experiences, as well as the experiences of other students and professors and research findings, to supplement the material given. Suggested by Sandy Avila, Research & Information Services

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing: the only way to guarantee your fair share of stock market returns by John C. Bogle The classic guide to getting smart about the market. Legendary mutual fund pioneer John C. Bogle reveals his key to getting more out of investing: low-cost index funds. This tenth anniversary edition includes updated data and new information but maintains the same long-term perspective as in its predecessor. Bogle has also added two new chapters designed to provide further guidance to investors: one on asset allocation, the other on retirement investing. Suggested by Peter Spyers-Duran, Cataloging

White Negroes: when cornrows were in vogue ... and other thoughts on cultural appropriation by Lauren Michele Jackson This book provides a cultural, political, and social survey through the most American of pastimes that continues to thrive today. It is a crucial account of the people, stories, and culture that create the hilarious, crazy wonder that is life in the 21st century. It is also a wake up call. This book documents how this very old tradition shapes our society in the present in the hopes that we can imagine something better. It will transform what readers think they know about race and culture in the new millennium and open the door to a new present and future unburdened by crimes of the past. Suggested by Megan Haught, Student Learning & Engagement/Research & Information Services

#UCF #ucflibrary #featured bookshelf #back to school #reading #tbr #booklr

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