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talkfastromance4 · 10 months

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Waiting & Staying–Jake Seresin (An Arrangement Series)

An Arrangement Masterlist

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word count: 3005

warnings: hospital, sadness, slight angst

Feedback, asks, comments/reblogs mean the world to me!

Enjoy!

It’s all a miraged blur when you leave the ball. It’s blurred snapshots of running up the stairs to suddenly being in Reynolds’ car gazing at the streetlights as they streak by. Jake’s hand wraps yours up with his to stop your fidgeting but your mind is still fidgeting and racing. Then you’re running through the large revolving door of the hospital, your voice an echo as you ask for Betty and then you’re running toward the elevator, nearly tripping in your heels as you do.

Jake stabilizes you and once the doors slide open you step inside and kick off your shoes, your finger pushing on the floor number incessantly. You watch the red dotted numbers impatiently as you ascend wanting the elevator to move faster. You squeeze yourself through the doors as they glide open and run to the room Betty is in, your feet smacking on the floor.

Betty is awake but looks tired as she smiles at you then she frowns.

“Why aren’t you at the party?” she asks.

“Because I got a call you were brought here,” you pant trying to catch your breath. Jake enters the room behind you holding onto your shoes. “Have you been tested or talked to by a nurse or doctor?”

“I had bloodwork done but that’s it. You should still be at the party, Dolly, I’ll be fine.”

“No, I’m staying right here,” you pull a chair up next to her bed.

While you wait Betty asks about the party and you tell her all about it. She asks the same question a few times but you don’t blame her because of what she’s been going through lately. The stroke that got her here is taking a toll and she hasn’t even fully recovered from the surgery on her bladder yet. How much more can she take?

Jake keeps leaving the room and going into the hallway, it’s irritating you slightly because if he’d rather be at the ball then he shouldn’t have left with you. You try not to dwell on it too much but when Betty is asleep and a nurse still hasn’t come in and he is still in the all, you stalk out there.

“If you want to go back to the party, you can go,” you tell him hotly. “I’ll take it from here.”

“Why would I want to go back?”

“You’ve been on your phone the whole time,” you gesture to it in his hand. “So go, Jake. It’s fine.”

“I called Serena and told her Reynolds would be picking her up so she can get into the house and get you a change of clothes. I’m not leaving yours or Betty’s side.”

“Oh…” you feel sheepish now. “Um, thank you.”

“How is she feeling?”

“Fine, she’s asleep now. But if they found blood I don’t get why tests aren’t being run,” you’re starting to get worked up again.

“Let’s wait together.”

Jake rubs soothing circles into your back as you sit and wait for someone to come into the room. Someone finally does when Serena arrives with a tote bag of clothes telling you that Betty will need a colonoscopy but the doctor who does it is at another hospital so it won’t be until the next day.

You’re adamant on staying and so is Jake even though you try to tell him to go home. The next day goes by and no doctor. Then another day and the same thing. Betty hasn’t been able to eat because of the colonoscopy and she’s only allowed to suck on ice cubes because it could affect the anesthesia and your patience has reached it’s limit.

“Where the hell is the doctor to perform the colonoscopy?” you demand a nurse that has come in to check Betty’s vitals and levels of her blood.

“He’s had quite a bit of emergencies–”

“Isn’t this an emergency since she was brought into the ER three days ago? She hasn’t eaten or drank in three days and nothing is happening!”

“Sugar–”

You push Jake’s hand away from your shoulder and you stand up from your chair.

“I understand you’re frustrated, Miss, but her levels are stable.”

“What does that mean? Is she still bleeding?”

“Not right now, that’s why we’re checking her hourly.”

“So if they rise will that constitute an emergency surgery? What if it’s too late? You all don’t seem concerned she was bleeding. I understand you all have a lot on your plate, I really do. I respect your job but this is ridiculous.”

“I’ll find out when the doctor will be here,” the nurse replies calmly.

“Good. Have him come straight here or I’ll find him myself.”

You glare as she leaves and Betty falls asleep again. You wait some more staring out the window and a nurse says the doctor is on his way now.

“I know you’re angry right now, Sugar,” Jake says softly next to you. He places a gentle hand on your shoulder, “but Betty is very lucky to have you be her voice.”

That appeases you slightly but you’re still irritated.

More waiting and then the doctor comes in and his Colgate smile and bounce in his step really ticks you off. He reads through Betty’s chart, talks to her a little and says surgery will be in an hour. You snort and the doctor glances up at you.

“We’ve been waiting for a long time,” Jake explains.

“I understand that and I apologize–”

“You understand? Listen,” you spin on your heels so you’re facing the doctor. “I’m tired of being apologized to and saying you understand our frustration but nothing is being done to fix my frustration. I’m tired of the half-assed remarks and information. Your job is tough, I get that, you have other patients and you’re not supposed to get attached or have emotions in your line of work. But could you please, please try using a little bit of compassion? You’re still dealing with family members and a person who is scared and wants to feel better.

“If you keep pushing her aside and I end up losing her, you’ll be dealing with a lot more than me being an angry family member.”

“Yes, I’ll make sure the operating room and team are ready. I’ll have updates for you very soon,” he coughs then exits the room.

You fall into the chair with your head in your hands. You’re emotionally and physically exhausted. You don’t want to be known as the irate person in the hospital but you’re tired of the ambiguity and evasiveness.

When it’s time for Betty to go get her colonoscopy, you give her a hug and a kiss and you sit and wait some more. An hour later she’s wheeled back in, sound asleep from the anesthesia and a promise from the nurse they sped up the results but as of right now, her levels are still stable.

“I think we should go home, rest, and eat something,” Jake suggests. You notices he’s still in his suit from three days ago and you feel guilty about that.

“You can, I’m staying here. You could have gone home and changed, Jake,” you sigh.

“I told you I’m not leaving you. You stay and I stay, but Sugar–” he kneels in front of you resting one hand on your knee and the other on your cheek–”you’re exhausted. A hot shower, change of clothes, and some food will help.”

“He’s right,” Betty suddenly says. Her eyes are half-lidded and she clears her throat. “You take care of yourself, I’m not going anywhere.”

“I’ll stay with Betty–”

“You go home, too, Jake. Take care of my granddaughter.”

Her eyes drift shut and her body relaxes into the pillows. Jake’s green eyes are pleading and you give in, taking his hand and let him lead you out of the hospital.

“What would you like to eat? I can make something–” jake begins when you’re back home.

“I’m not hungry,” you sigh.

“You need to eat something. What are you hungry for?” he insists.

“I don’t know. I’m going to take a shower.”

He watches you shuffle towards the stairs. He can sense you withdrawing from him and building up that wall he’s tried so hard to knock down. You haven’t opened up fully but he can tell you’ve been burned in the past but he’s not quite sure who hurt you this badly. He calls Rhea and asks her if she can make your favorite comfort foods.

He decides to shower and change himself, he feels sterile and stiff from being in his suit and the hospital for so long. You’re still not out of the shower when he’s finished and he starts to get worried. Your bathroom door is shut when he enters your room and then he hears a clatter of commotion.

Panicking, he rushes to the door but it’s locked.

“Sugar! Let me in, are you hurt?” he asks, pounding on the door. The shower is still running and he thinks you might’ve slipped and hit your head so he shoulders the door open.

You’re wrapped in a towel, wet hair falling down your back and you’re leaning against the bathroom counter. Products are scattered along the floor and the heels of your hands are pressed into your eyes.

“Sugar–”

At the sound of his voice you start to collapse but Jake is swift and catches you in his arms right before you hit the ground. You’re sobbing and gasping, finally letting out what you’ve kept built up during this whole ordeal. You’ve tried to remain strong but it became too much and crashed over you like a tsunami.

Jake shifts his body so his back is against the cabinets and he repositions you in his lap. Your arms wrap around his shoulders and you cry into his neck.

“I’ve got you…I’m right here,” he murmurs in your wet hair. He kisses the top of your head, holding onto you tightly, rocking slightly until you’ve cried yourself dry.

He helps you stand then grabs a tissue to dry the tears from your face. Your eyes are bloodshot and puffy.

“Stay right here, okay?” he asks and you nod so he can shut off the shower then, grabs your hand and leads you into your room.

He gives you a gentle push and you drop onto the edge of your bed, towel still wrapped securely around you and you’re staring, unblinkingly at the lush carpet. Jake sprints to his room so he can grab his NAVY t-shirt and when he gets back, you’re in the same position. Still as a statue, staring.

“Let’s get you changed, okay?” he asks then moves to your dressers. He finds a pair of cream colored sleep shorts and opens a few more drawers until he finds some underwear. He sets the articles of clothing beside you but you remain unmoving. “y/n, look at me.”

Your eyes dart to his automatically.

“I’m going to help you change, is that all right?” he asks and you jerk a nod then stand up. Your movements are almost catatonic as you let the towel drop to the floor.

Jake moves quickly, tapping your legs so you can step into the underwear as he pulls them up in the right position. He makes sure to keep his eyes on your toes, noting the pretty coral color they are from your last pedicure appointment, and wanting to give you as much privacy as possible. When he stands up straight, he grabs his shirt and pulls that over your head, again, keeping his eyes on your face.

He pulls your hair out from the back, feeling how the ends are starting to knot.

“Get into bed and I’ll brush your hair,” he says then gets your brush from the bathroom.

You’re under the covers, stoic and clutching the edge of the bedspread, your eyes are heavy and he so desperately wants you to sleep.

“Let me get behind you,” he murmurs and settles himself behind you as you move forward. You’re cradled between his legs and he drags the brush through your hair as gently as possible. “I’m having Rhea make your favorite foods, but if you want to sleep first I’ll make sure she puts it in the fridge.”

“‘Kay,” you whisper.

When the brush runs through your hair with no resistance, he sets it on the nightstand and starts to move out from behind you. Your hands flash to his forearms, stopping him.

“What is it, Sugar?” he asks, craning his neck so he can look at you more clearly. You open your mouth then close it a few times until biting on your lip. “Do you want me to stay?”

You nod.

“Okay, I’ll be right here,” he nods then kisses your cheek.

You begin to move from his lap and he lifts his arms up allowing you to go wherever you please. You end up shifting to his side, draping one arm and leg over his torso, your head on his chest. Jake gets comfortable, tickling his fingers up and down your arm, pressing soft kisses to your head as he does.

You end up sleeping for a day and a half and it’s a dreamless sleep. But when you do wake up, Jake is still next to you, you shifted throughout the entirety but he still had his hand on your hip while he slept. You rolled over and stared at his sleeping face, ignoring the hollowness in your stomach.

His stubble is more pronounced and his lashes extend to his cheeks like little paint brushes. You scoot closer, pressing a hand to his cheek and he scares you a little when his eyes open.

“Are you really awake, now?” he asks.

“Were there false alarms?”

“Mhm,” he slides his hand from your waist to your lower back, his thumb making circles. “A few times. I’m glad you finally slept.”

“I’m sorry about my…breakdown.”

“Don’t be sorry. You bottled it up and your body finally released it, but I could tell it took a lot out of you. Betty is doing fine, she called a few hours ago after she was done having breakfast. She wants you to eat before we head over there.”

“I am hungry,” you admit and it makes him laugh.

“I thought so. I’ll go warm up the food and you can meet me downstairs.”

You’re both slow moving getting out of bed, you were in such a dead sleep your bones were sore and stiff. While you used the bathroom, you had some time to think about Betty. About Jake. About you and Jake. You grab the black folder from the bottom of your dresser.

When you went downstairs, Jake was setting the food on plates and he gave you a happy grin as you stood beside him, the folder behind your back.

“Grab whatever you’d like to drink. We can eat and then change before heading over to Betty–”

You cut him off mid-sentence by grabbing his cheeks and rising on your toes to kiss him. It’s only your second kiss but your lips move in synchronization, an already familiar dance and his hands find home on your hips. You set the folder on the counter beside him. His palms form perfectly to your curves and he inhales a gasp as you nip at his lip before pulling away.

“What was that for?” he whispers, jaw ticking as he swallows harshly.

“I’ll sign the paperwork.”

He moves his head back, eyes studying you then he notices the folder on the counter.

“You’ll what?”

“The arrangement, I’ll sign it,” you nod. “But everything will be for Betty.”

“y/n…let’s discuss this after you’ve eaten. You’ve just been asleep for thirty-six hours with no food and anxiety about Betty. We don’t have to talk about this now.”

“I want to talk about it now. You said the ball is in my court. I’ll sign it as long as it all helps Betty. I don’t want to keep waiting to discuss this. I’ve made my decision. I’ll sign the paperwork and we’ll figure everything else out later. But Jake…please help Betty.”

Your voice quivers as you say her name and on impulse you snake your arms around Jake’s shoulders. You press your lips to his neck, leaving soft, suctioning kisses to his skin while whispering ‘please’ and his body relaxes into you.

“I’ll go out with you to restaurants and bars and parties and whatever else,” you whisper in his ear and then glaze over to his lips. “Taking care of Betty will take care of me. Please, Jake.”

You press your lips to his, dragging your tongue through his lips to connect with his. He gives in, kissing you with all his might it makes your knees weak but then he removes your arms from around him. He places them at your sides, his grip firm but not unpleasant as he stares at you.

“Okay, sign it. But in the future, you don’t have to coerce me by kissing me, that’s not what this is.” His green eyes are dark and hard, unwavering as he lets his words sink in. “Understand?”

You swallow.

“Yes.”

He releases you like a hot iron, picks up his plate and moves to the patio. You grab yours as well but he closes the door with a snap and you take that as being uninvited to join him. Your stomach is in knots because of what you just did but also a weird euphoric feeling that Betty will be getting the best care.

Your lips are tingling from the kiss and you watch him slowly eat his food, your mind filled with more questions. The knot in your stomach won’t go away because you didn’t mean to hurt his feelings but you also didn’t want to stop kissing him.

Will you be able to keep the arrangement superficial?

Does he even want it superficial?

#an arrangement #an arrangement series #jake seresin x reader #jake x reader #hangman x reader #jake hangman seresin #jake sersin writing #hangman fic #hangman fluff #jake seresin fluff #top gun maverick writing #top gun writing #jake sersin fiction #jake seresin angst #hangman angst

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crowns-of-violets-and-roses · 9 months

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Pale Goblins (and friends) as dril tweets

Cherrypop: just found out about Object Permanence… why didnt any one tell me about this shit

Biscuit: drunk driving may kill a lot of people, but it also helps a lot of people get to work on time, so, it;s impossible to say if its bad or not,

Flopsy: awfully bold of you to fly the Good Year blimp on a year that has been extremely bad thus far

Sporghog: sending my most powerful kisses to all pregnant women fire fighers

America: IF THE ZOO BANS ME FOR HOLLERING AT THE ANIMALS I WILL FACE GOD AND WALK BACKWARDS INTO HELL

Bagnut: oh you say you’re going to fuck me? you’re going to try to fuck me, through the computer? Well i say this, and that is “Game on”

Peckersnot: the only A+ i ever got was from that time in art class when i drew venus & serena willaims clobbering the. shit out of me with their rackets

Doglick: how do i get cowboy paint off a dog

Tatty Bo Jangles: “jail isnt real,” i assure myself as i close my eyes and ram the hallmark gift shop with my shitty bronco

Ramjam: i lvoe and cherish all of the girls of this site, and other websites. you all become my wife more and more with each passing day. Thank you

Gashwad: id love to get attacked by a bird. id love for a bird to try to fight me. id love to smash it to bits with my bare hands.

Toadswallow: i regret to inform you, that by resorting to Swear language, you have forfeit this debate. Farewell my bitch

Snatchragged: if a sniper shot me i owuld run over to where he is and kick the gun out of his hand and kill him because hes not specialized in melee fight

Bubbleyum: what would you do if i unlocked 100% of my true brain? Nothing. you would be fucked

Lewdtube: do not be afraid to talk to that lonely boy on the train … with the rosy red cheeks, sun glasses & big cigar… he just mmight be… angel

Bluntmunch: another day volunteering at the betsy ross museum. everyone keeps asking me if they can fuck the flag. buddy, they wont even let me fuck it

Kittycough: two handfuls of kitty litter taken from the beautiful hollywood home of sports broadcaster Dick Vitale , for $100 or best offer

Breastbiter the Chonk: joke’s on you; i actually love being body slammed by one dozen perfect wrestlers. and my mouth isn’t filled with bloodm, it’s victory wine

Liberty: DOCTOR: you cant keep doing this to yourself. being The Last True Good Boy online will destroy you. you must stop posting with honor ME: No,

Slaygarrrrrr Who Slavishly Slays: my name is “ GAMER FUCKER ” and i was sent to FUCK all the gamers…

Flopsy (again): awfully bold of you to retweet my “bad year” tweet on a year that has been extremely good thus far

Avery: strongest blade in the world, howeve,r it is so fragile as to shatter when handled by any force other than the delicate touch of a lesbian .

Snowdrop: Im the only man here who injects himself with a CIA Grade Truth Serum before each and every post i make. Remember only that

#pale #otherverse #wildbow

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astarionbae · 4 months

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Luna Dungardio is a noble high half elf who was born to a human female bard and a high elf druid male. Her father, Apolis and more commonly known as "Blackwood", was a dark archdruid that had a created his own circle from the teachings of the Circle of Spores, granting him a large following. They believed death and decay brings new life to all things, and to keep nature pure from contagion. When he met Serena, and fell in love, that's when it became dangerous. Around the age of five, Luna and her mother were found out by her father's grove and been attacked. The faction considered the child of their beloved Blackwood to be the rot in the roots due to their own demented interpretation of their circle's rule. Blackwood had fought back with animated death at his side, calling a sheltering spell on Luna. In the middle of casting a rather sadistic and torturous, Blackwood was stabbed which caused him to lose concentration on the sheltering spell and release his newest incantation. All were struck dead with vitality slipping from their bones and blood seeping out of every orifice; Luna was not spared. As her life began slipping away Blackwood called on Jergal, the Lord of the Dead, to save his daughter's life and to take his in place. Instead, Bhaal had come to him and made him an offer that he could not refuse. To save Luna, Bhaal bestowed his own blood within her body to make her a spawn and in return, he wanted Luna to be his Chosen. Blackwood accepted, not knowing the true outcome of this deal. As the years progressed and Luna got older, Blackwood noticed that she would hesitate for periods at a time, speaking with someone he could not see. It gotten to a point that he tried to make deals with devils to help out his daughter but before any progress could be made, he was met with a knife's edge that been plunged into his skin by his own daughter. Luna found her way to the Temple of Bhaal and became a leader, devoting herself and her life to her newest 'father'. In the 15th century, at the age of twenty-nine, Luna was betrayed by fellow Bhaalspawn Orin the Red at Moonrise Towers. She had her skull pierced and opened with a dagger, and was infected with a mindflayer tadpole that began to eat her brain, resulting in amnesia, as well as her becoming the first True Soul. Found by Kressa, who been impressed with her willpower and resistance to the elder brain, began to study her by cutting her up and sewing her back together over several days as she couldn't speak or do anything. Luna was then sent on the Nautiloid Ship, where she would soon wake up with no memories of herself or their past. There, she meets a githyanki warrior named Lae'Zel and a half elf cleric named Shadowheart, beginning her journey of self discovery and a path to redemption.

taglist; @rey-of-luke, @endless-oc-creations, @fandomqueenlove, @aliverse, @mmmayflower2016, @seize-the-droid, @maddyperiez, @foxesandmagic, @harleyquinnzelz, @bravelittleflower, @anotherunreadblog, @kendelias, @dreamerwithapen1, @kiara-carrera, @phoebestarks, @rickiisrad, @anqelwiithhxrns, @the-multifandommess-blog, @ocs-supporting-ocs, @luucypevensie, @claryxjackson, @aaronhotchstuff, @susiesamurai, @witchofinterest, @heresthefanfiction, @reysfinn, @arrthurpendragon, @margoshansons, @richitozier, @waterloou, @bobfloydsbabe, @decennia, @asirensrage, @starcrossedjedis, @zoyazenik, @dyhlanobrien, @eddiesmunsons, @bisexualterror, @squirrelstone, @lucys-chen, @jewishbarbies, @carmens-garden,

#ocappreciation #baldur's gate 3 ocs #video game ocs #dark urge oc #luna dungardio #fic: castle of glass (?)#still working on a title but #character study and intro #mine #my creation #my ocs #first oc of the new year!!

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clarebear-0925 · 28 days

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Flowers, Fight Scenes and Isolation: My Prediction for the Future (And Possible Ending) of Jujutsu Kaisen

Hi. So seeing this extra for volume 26 finally spurred me to articulate all of my thoughts on this subject in one place. Sorry for the length, but let me cook.

Here's the big idea: I believe that Gojo is in fact going to come back— but with a major catch.

Lets review the (mostly theme-based) evidence, shall we?

Firstly, throughout the entire series, we know that Gojo has been incredibly lonely, isolated at the top by Jujutsu society,

As summed up by this iconic panel, with just him, vast empty white space, and his title, the only thing that most people know him for/define him by, aka “the strongest.”

We also know that isolation played a big role in his mental state and thinking until his death, and is something that Gege made sure to reemphasize during his last moments in chapter 236.

In this conversation, Gojo expresses the gap he felt and also sets up the connected imagery of him and flowers.

(In addition, I feel as though it is also significant that the person he finally opens up to about his feelings on this isolation is Geto- more on that later).

Next, JJK is commonly nicknamed “jumpkaisen” as a joke by fans due to how often the characters team up against the villains. However, I think this pattern actually has more significance in the overall narrative than being a funny quirk.

Over the course of the series, we have seen all sorts of teamups between a wide variety of characters- like the widespread jumpkaisen nickname suggests, they are an iconic part of JJK's combat.

However, one character in particular is exempt from this trend- Gojo. (and also Sukuna but we’ll get into that later too.)

He is always fighting alone- as an adult, we never see him fight alongside anyone else the way that other characters do. Even the villains note this when planning their battle strategy:

This is is made especially clear in the final battle (especially with the contrast between the mostly solo Gojo v Sukuna fight and the absolute dogpile that is going on in the manga right now).

The only times we ever saw Gojo fighting alongside another person is with Geto in his youth. Geto is also the only person who didn’t him as “the strongest.” Instead, they were the strongest together, and that is reflected in how they fought together.

But then after everything in Hidden Inventory, Geto too starts to see that gap between him and Gojo.

This results in him leaving Gojo, thus permanently isolating him as “the strongest.” (See also the change from "we're the strongest" in the Hidden Inventory Arc to "I'm the Strongest" in JJK episode 2).

We never see him fight with another person after that.

Ok, so now let’s put these two points (Gojo's isolation and its connection to the fight scenes) to serve up a prediction.

I believe that Gojo is going to come back severely weakened to the point that he will finally have to (or be able to) fight WITH others- in particular, the students who he has made it his express mission to protect and nurture so they can go on to improve Jujutsu society.

This would be in sharp contrast to Sukuna, who has continually refused any chance or notion of love and connection, likely due to his belief that it is unattainable due to his strength.

(Serena on TikTok has an amazing and concise video on this topic- go watch it if you're interested in a better understanding)

I also think that this development would be a great way to show that Gojo HAS been successful in his goal to nurture a better future of Jujutsu- rather than the society isolating and systematically breaking students like it did Geto, the students are now all working together to defeat this insurmountable evil.

So, in conclusion, yes, Sukuna will in fact be defeated by the power of love and friendship (and a couple dozen or so black flashes), and it is NOT Gojover.

Also, here is some vital supplemental information (again from the amazing Serena) regarding the flower depicted on Gojo’s cover and the volume 26 extra.

I think the fact that Gojo compared himself to a flower in Chapter 236 as he died, and the fact that the flower in the supplemental (who he is clearly connected to via the cover art) hasn’t hit the ground yet is a very good (and more concrete) sign for his chances of returning.

Thank you for reading and sorry for the length! I would love to know your guys' thoughts on this theory and what you think will happen in the future of JJK! :)

#hi i know i already posted this but i cleaned it up to post on reddit so take the cleaner version here too!!#jjk manga spoilers #jjk #jjk theory #gojo satoru #my ramblings #clare’s tedtalks

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useless-catalanfacts · 2 years

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Are there any mermaid legends in Cataluña?

Yes, more or less.

The most famous one is actually a merman, called Peix Nicolau (Nicolau Fish).

The legend says that Nicolau used to be a normal human boy from a coastal town, but he loved swimming in the sea more than anything else. He spent all the time he could at the beach, swimming instead of helping at home or working, and his mother often had to go drag him out of the water to bring him back to eat, work, or go to sleep. One day, his mother was frustrated and said "if you’re going to spend all the time in the water, you might as well become a fish!", and that became true from his hips down.

Living on land was difficult for him, because he couldn't walk and he had to be wet at all times. So he decided to go live in the sea, and he still lives there now. He swam the whole sea and this allowed him to invent the nautical charts.

In Mallorca they say that he was warned to never try to swim between Santa Margalida and Artà because it's too dangerous, but he decided to go there nevertheless and died. In Catalonia we don't say he ever died.

Peix Nicolau is the king of waters and everything that lives in water. Sailors used to believe he lives in the beaches, in the part where the waves would keep him in touch with water, but seeing him would be a sign of misfortune. It's of vital importance for sailors and fishermen to never see him, and most importantly to never fish him.

Others say that he lives in a palace underwater. Every March, he leaves his palace to find out the news. He takes a walk and, once he’s seen everything he wanted to see, he goes back to his palace until next year.

This legend is found in the Catalan countries but also in Naples and Sicily, and is recorded since the 12th century.

Women mermaids exist too in legends. In Catalan, they are called sirenes. They appear in written texts as your typical mermaid/siren, half woman half fish or half woman half bird. Take for example this extract from a Medieval Catalan bestiary book:

Mermaids are a marvellous creature, there are three kinds: one is half fish and half woman, another is half bird and half woman, and the other is half horse and half woman. The one that is made half fish and half woman has such a sweet voice that everyone who hears her sing goes near her to hear her and they find her voice so pleasant that they fall asleep; when the mermaid sees that the man is asleep, she sees him as useless and kills him. That one that is half bird and half woman plays the harp in such a sweet way that everyone is pleased to go hear her, so much that they fall asleep; and again this mermaid wants to kill him. And the one that is half horse half woman, plays the trumpet in such a sweet way that everyone is pleased to go hear her; and since the man is asleep for the sweetness of the trumpet, said mermaid also kills him.

The horse-mermaids have disappeared nowadays, at least they’re not part of the concept “sirena” anymore. But we still have some legends about the sirenes that are half bird half women, for example la serena dels Ports. This is a legend from the Terra Alta area that talks of a girl who was fooled by the boy she loved and thus she was damned to become a siren. She had long red hair, a peak instead of mouth, and she fed from the livestock owned by the shepherds of the area. On full moon nights, she went out looking for company, but she always scared everyone. Tired of scaring people away and being lonely, she left. She travelled to find a cure to her curse until she reached the Ports area. She hadn’t found a cure, but she was very comfortable there. In the Ports, she didn’t feel like an evil beast, but one member more of the local bird community, so she never felt lonely again.

But the oral tradition, until relatively recently, often didn’t necessarily see mermaids as half fish. Very often they were basically water-women/encantades (a kind of fae women who live for centuries and whose beauty can capture men to their perdition) but from the sea instead of fresh sweet water, which is were the encantades live. These don’t have a fish tail, they just look like beautiful women who are always young. In fact, some legends talk about them dancing, which I don’t think they would be able to do if they didn’t have legs.

I wouldn’t dare to say there wasn’t any mermaid who was half fish in the oral tradition, and as we’ve seen this mythological creature was always known for by the people who could read and write, and probably the sailors who interacted with sailors from other cultures. But since the 20th century, the idea of what a sirena/mermaid is has shifted because of foreign influence, so now we imagine them always to have a fish tail, including many ones that originally didn’t have that trait.

I’ll translate to English an excerpt from Costumari Català by Joan Amades, one of the most famous books about Catalan traditions.

Mermaids, queens of the sea, ladies of the fish, leave their palaces at the bottom of the sea, where they spend the winter months. They stroll at the water’s surface with their shiny hair laid out, and while they swim they don’t stop singing and playing guitarrins [similar to ukeleles] with a sound as sweet as their voices, to enchant the sailors. Whoever hears them becomes seduced and follows them to their palaces, where they remain under a spell forever.

In the area of Costa Brava and l’Estartit, it’s believed that on the Night of Sant Joan [June 23rd] mermaids go to Begur to count the grains of sand. The queen of mermaids lives in an enchanted palace made of glass, whose entrance is through a cave all made of pink coral, very deep underwater in the Medes islets. People from the Cap de Creus believed that, around October, a mermaid different from most of her species wakes up. What makes her different is that she’s maybe more beautiful and has a singing voice that’s incomparably more harmonious and honey-like, which can only be heard by fishermen and sailors, because she sings only for them.

There are other local legends about them. I’ll explain one more, that talks about the creation of l’Empordà peninsula. On a full moon night, the mermaids were dancing in the beach of Pals. That day, the queen of mermaids had left her palace in the Medes isles and was dancing too, in the most beautiful way imaginable. Some fishermen were watching them, but they knew that they couldn’t get closer to them or the mermaids would leave. A shepherd from the Pyrenees mountains happened to be there too, but he didn’t know he couldn’t get closer, and so he did. The queen of mermaids and him fell in love, but he had to go back to the Pyrenees. Apart, they couldn’t stop thinking of each other. So, on a full moon night, the shepherd took some steps towards the sea and the queen of mermaids took some steps towards the mountains, and where they found each other they created l’Empordà.

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hoodharlow · 11 months

Note

1d7tg going with them to a doctor/therapist

This is before Lil Jackie was born 🤭

"Jack leave that alone." Monse whisper-yelled at him as he messed around with the pregnancy puzzle.

They were at planned parenthood, inside an exam room waiting for her check up. Jack was in the middle of tour, but lucky enough he had a stop in LA. He snuck out of sound check and rushed to pick her up at her apartment. It was his first time coming with Monse and he needed something to distract himself. He still hadn't told his team about Monse’s pregnancy, but they knew she existed. The only people that knew were Urban and his parents, and of course Serena.

"Hi, I'm Dr. Ross, you must be Mon-zer-rat." The doctor greeted them when she entered the room.

"Monse is fine if it's easier for you." Monse told the doctor.

"Oh, okay." She said. She turned to Jack and asked, "and this is?"

"The baby's dad." Jack said.

"Oh okay let me get settled then we'll check on your baby." Dr. Ross said.

Jack sat on the chair next to Monse. He saw her fidgeting with the gold chain she had around her wrist, so he reached for her hand and gave her a gentle squeeze.

Once the doctor got everything ready, she did the basics: checked Monse’s vitals and asked her about her symptoms and if she was feeling any pains then got her to lay back on the exam room. Monse pushed up her baggy t-shirt exposing her belly. It was also the first time he'd seen her tummy.

The doctor lathered up some sort of gel on Monse’s belly. She hissed at the cold feeling, but Jack rubbed her arm. She turned at smiled at him. They watched the doctor slide the transducer around her tummy.

Jack watched the monitor in awe. There was an actual human growing inside of Monse. It was one thing to know but a completely different thing to see it. They made an actual person. Monse's appointment ended soon after. The doctor gave them several pamphlets about the 2nd trimester and q few about other options that they could look into if they decide not to raise the baby when she's born. She also had some images of the ultrasound printed.

"Can I borrow it to send to my mom?" Jack asked Monse as made their wY to his car.

"Keep it, they email them to me." She told him.

"Thanks," he smiled.

Once inside the car, Jack sent his mom the pictures. She replied instantly with crying emojis. He replied that he'd call her tonight after his show. He started the car and saw Monse cradling her tummy.

"Can I?" Jack asked.

"Yeah," she nodded. She pulled her shirt and reached for his hand, placing it on her.

"Hi baby, it's me your dad." Jack said, rubbing his thumb.

#anon 😌😌😌#1d7tg thoughts #1d7tg concepts

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a-solitary-sea-rover-backup · 5 months

Text

The group of 8 Youth Emirates Team New Zealand hopefuls undertook a busy four day schedule embarking on a steep learning curve encompassing the technical systems and software required to sail the AC40 as well as race training and simulation on the Emirates Team New Zealand simulator.

The 8 trialling sailors at the base are an impressive line-up of world and national champions across a number of different classes.

Annabelle Rennie-Younger Current 470 & ILCA 6 National Champion

Serena Woodall RNZYZ Match race youth program / 2023 69F campaign

Jacob Pye 2023 Moth National Champion

Joshua Armit Gold medal at the 2018 Youth Worlds in Laser class

Leo Takahashi 49er Olympics 2020 Tokyo Olympics- 11th

Oscar Gunn 2022 49er National Champion

Sam Robert Thomas Street 2022 International WASZP Games Champion

Seb Menzies 420 World Champion / 2022 Moth National Champion

Leading the trials and selection process is Emirates Team New Zealand’s Josh Junior now in his 3rd America’s Cup campaign, having joined in 2016 as a young Olympic class sailor.

“I was lucky enough to join the team as a young sailor, similar to these guys, so I know what an amazing opportunity it is for these guys and girls, but also how daunting it can be. So we are throwing them in the deep end a bit, but that is all part of the challenge.” Said Junior.

Elise Beavis, also helping with the selection process explains what the week has been about.

“We've got our group of shortlisted sailors and they're running through a whole lot of different activities, such as sailing on the game, learning to use some of our in-house tools and their progression through the week has been incredible.”

The week wasn’t just about the individual, but assessing personalities and how they work collectively and the vitally important team environment

“They’ve got to be in sync with each other. They need to communicate well, I think those are big areas where they’re learning heaps.” said Elise Beavis.

#I’m so thrilled Leo gets another chance at the big time with SailGP Japan suspended for the present #Is Elise ever actually going to get HER chance though?#Youth America's Cup #AC 37 #america's cup #Leo Takahashi #Elise Beavis #Emirates Team New Zealand

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hydesjackiespuddinpop · 5 months

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Est: 1972/1973

Members:

First Generation: Eric Forman Steven Hyde Michael Kelso Fez Donna Pinciotti Jackie Burkhart Kitty Forman (kitchen) Red Forman (kitchen)

Second Generation: Leia Forman Gwen Runck Jay Kelso Nate Runck Nikki Velasco Ozzie Takada

Third Generation:

Anne-Marie Kelso Jonah Shaland-Mitchell Martin Martin Kira Kwan June Guzman-Queimada Lois Clarkson Cleo Joy-Martelli

Visitors:

Laurie Forman Mitch Miller Schatzi Mr. Wilkinson Etienne Marshall Leo Chingkwake Andrew Jill Alice Cooper Steven Tyler (cutout) Joe Perry (cutout) Bob Pinciotti Midge Pinciotti Mrs. McGee Jackie's plush unicorn Coach Ferguson Jerry Thunder The Station Manager Waitress Sarah Mitchell Fatso The Clown Schatzi Mitch Miller Delilah Reed Kristie Forman Darline Joy Kelly Shaland Serena Marotti Betsy Kelso

About

The Circle is a way for the creators to showcase a vital component of the '70s – smoking weed. According to the show creators, the blunt or joint is passed around ahead of the person speaking on camera, thus never shown. The circle usually takes place in the basement and features four people, though these rules are bent on occasion. On special occasions, the circle has been used to show the characters partaking in consuming other things than weed, such as dinner, alcohol, ice cream, cigars, hash brownies (accidentally) or nothing at all. During such scenes, adults also participate.

On occasion, the circle scenes are followed by scenes where the characters act sober while being still high, but more often that not, no one seems to suffer any ill effects after the fact. A notable case was the second-to-last episode where a particularly potent "stash" was acquired by the gang when Fez's friend from his homeland visited. Hyde, who was unquestionably the most frequent pot smoker in The Circle, actually quit smoking for a period of time because he got too high.

The Circle also remained in the '90s and '2000s, where the gang would still smoke and occasionally drink.

Rules

The circle is not:

An area where people can talk about their feelings.

A place where people can cry.

For the faint of heart.

A place where people can grope each other.

But it is:

Where laughing occurs.

Where random stuff is discussed.

Where some of the dumbest decisions are made.

Very candid.

One of the most well-known elements of the show.

A place to sing random songs.

Quotes

That '70s Show

Hyde – I would be so pissed at you if I had the ability to feel anger right now...thank God I don't!

Fez – You know guys, sometimes I wish we were cartoon teenagers

Hyde – Zoinks. That'd be super, Fez

Kelso – Alright, guys...I have a confession...I do shave my legs. I just love the way it feels!

Hyde – Man, when two people break up, it's the saddest thing...except for right now, when it's funny!

Hyde – Dude, I can't close my mouth...This is freakin' me out, man!

Hyde – Hahahaa, ohh weather kicks ass

Hyde – No way is Samantha hotter than Jeannie! Hey, I heard there was an episode they never aired.. where Jeannie gets totally naked! The government banned it.

Kelso – You know what's a funny word? Pickle-Weasel!

Kelso – You guys are never gonna believe this. Jackie cheated on me. With the cheese guy!!

Hyde - (dramatically pretends to be shocked) No!

That '90s Show

Gwen - "You're fun!"

Nikki - "You're fun! Should we be funyuns?"

Gwen - "Funyuns!"

That '2000s Show

Anne-Marie - “Oh my god. I just got stoned. Did I get stoned because I feel like I got stoned?

Cleo - Try this leafy mint. It tastes like Fruit Loops

#circle wikis #group wikis #the '70s circle #the '90s circle #the '2000s circle

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tanyaspinel · 6 months

Text

//En los confines del Orderrealm, donde el orden y la disciplina son sagrados, nació Amaya, un ente destinado a ser la protectora y guardiana de este reino. Tiene la capacidad de alterar y ver los recuerdos de las personas.

Amaya es una entidad tímida y tranquila, siempre mostrando una apariencia serena y melancólica. Su presencia parecía envuelta en una tristeza silenciosa, resultado de su aislamiento y el constante conflicto contra el Chaosrealm. Siendo un ente, nunca tuvo una vida como los mortales, siempre se manifestó como una adulta, sin conocer la experiencia de la infancia o la juventud.

Desde el comienzo de la guerra entre los reinos, Amaya se convirtió en una pieza vital para el Orderrealm. Su zircón era la clave que protegía y mantenía la estabilidad en el reino aparte era lo que mantenía su forma física, siendo custodiado por el fiel guerrero Hotaru. Juntos, formaron un vínculo de confianza y dependencia, pues Amaya sabía que su deber primordial era mantener la seguridad y la pureza del Orderrealm.

Sin embargo, en su interior, Amaya albergaba un anhelo secreto. A pesar de su dedicación inquebrantable a su deber, anhelaba conocer más allá de los límites del Orderrealm. Deseaba explorar y descubrir lo desconocido, experimentar la libertad y la diversidad que otros reinos tenían para ofrecer. Pero su deber y su lealtad a su reino eran más fuertes que cualquier deseo personal, y así continuó protegiendo las fronteras del Orderrealm con devoción.

A lo largo de los años, Amaya fue explotada y utilizada como un recurso estratégico en la guerra contra el Chaosrealm. Su habilidad para alterar y ver los recuerdos de las personas se convirtió en una herramienta valiosa para obtener información y desestabilizar a los enemigos. A pesar de esto, Amaya seguía siendo un ser pacífico y compasivo, cuestionando en silencio el precio que debía pagar por el bienestar de su reino.

A medida que los conflictos entre los reinos se intensificaban, Amaya se encontraba cada vez más dividida entre su deber y su deseo de explorar el mundo exterior. Una chispa de curiosidad y anhelo crecía dentro de ella, y sabía que tarde o temprano tendría que enfrentar la decisión de seguir su deber o buscar su propia identidad más allá de su papel como protectora del Orderrealm.

//In the confines of the Orderrealm, where order and discipline are sacred, Amaya was born, an entity destined to be the protector and guardian of this kingdom. He has the ability to alter and see people's memories. Amaya is a shy and calm entity, always displaying a serene and melancholic appearance. His presence seemed shrouded in a silent sadness, the result of his isolation and the constant conflict with the Chaosrealm. Being an entity, she never had a life like mortals, she always manifested as an adult, without knowing the experience of childhood or youth. Since the beginning of the war between the realms, Amaya became a vital cog in the Orderrealm. His zircon was the key that protected and maintained stability in the kingdom apart, it was what maintained his physical form, being guarded by the faithful warrior Hotaru. Together, they formed a bond of trust and dependency, for Amaya knew that her primary duty was to maintain the safety and purity of the Orderrealm. Inside, however, Amaya harbored a secret longing. Despite his unwavering dedication to his duty, he longed to know beyond the confines of Orderrealm. He wanted to explore and discover the unknown, to experience the freedom and diversity that other realms had to offer. But his duty and his loyalty to his realm were stronger than any personal desire, and so he continued to protect the borders of the Orderrealm with devotion. Over the years, Amaya was exploited and used as a strategic resource in the war against Chaosrealm. His ability to alter and see people's memories became a valuable tool for gaining information and destabilizing enemies. Despite this, Amaya remained a peaceful and compassionate being, silently questioning the price he had to pay for the well-being of his kingdom. As the conflicts between the kingdoms intensified, Amaya found herself increasingly torn between her duty and her desire to explore the outside world. A spark of curiosity and longing grew within her, and she knew that sooner or later she would have to face the choice of whether to follow her duty or seek her own identity beyond her role as protector of Orderrealm.

#oc #mortal kombat #mk fanart #mk fandom #ocfanart #mkau #mortal kombat oc #oc mortal kombat #mk oc #havik mk #mk havik #mortal kombat havik

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showrunnerihardlyknowher · 7 months

Note

If you don't mind, then do you think you can list them all for color pallets please?

Or at the very least the ones from stories that you normally engage with people about. Ie. The borrower one, starwars rip off, scp ripoff, and the mothBoi lighthouse one

Here's the color palettes for the characters I've either written and/or drawn multiple art of:

(if there's anyone I missed or a side character you'd like to know, just ask! (: )

SCP Rip Off

Serena - Black; black 2C hair; brown eyes // washed out jeans and green blouse OR blue ABC t-shirt

Jimmy - White; light brown hair (with a mullet, very vital), blue eyes // black jeans, boots, and tie; white button up shirt; brown security jacket

AB299 - Almost pitch black; fully red-yellow ringed eyes

AB031 - Black skin; red casing on insect features; fully black eyes, white hair

Star Wars Rip Off

Jacob - White; brown hair; brown eyes; freckles // standard camouflage army fatigues, black t-shirt

Edix - Afro Latino; black hair; green eyes; red fur // black space suit with dark red accents OR white uniform with black/red accents (long sleeve shirt with black pants)

Angie - Hispanic; brown hair; brown eyes // standard camouflage army fatigues

Talan - White (slight tan); blonde hair; green eyes // black space suit with dark red accents OR white uniform with black/red accents (long sleeve shirt with black pants)

Ylva - Vietnamese; black hair; green eyes // black space suit with dark red accents OR white uniform with black/red accents (dress with black tights)

Mibao/Reagan - Black; black 3B hair; brown eyes // pink dress and bow

Mothman Rip Off

Jasper - White; red hair; green eyes // dark grey knit sweater; brown waders with suspenders; brown boots

Deus - White fur/skin with brown and grey markings; fully black eyes

Batman Rip Off

Jamie/Nano - Hispanic; brown hair; brown eyes // yellow suit with orange accents OR blue jeans and any graphic t-shirt

Dean/Negasonic - White; black hair; violet eyes // black armored suit with cape OR any black ensemble with sunglasses

NGE Rip Off

Kumiko - Japanese; black hair; black eyes // white/black school uniform

Taiyo - White; black hair; black sclera with gold irises // white armored suit with gold accents

MIB Rip Off

Felix - Mexican; black hair, brown eyes // tan sheriff uniform

Athena - White; brown hair with blonde fringe; violet eyes // tailored black suit

Borrowers Rip Off

Ben - White; blonde hair; blue eyes // tan exterminator uniform OR any jeans and a t-shirt

Milo - Tan; black hair; brown eyes // stitched/tattered clothing; blue long sleeve shirt; brown capris; green poncho; brown shoes

Elysie - White; blonde hair; green eyes // vet scrubs in various colors

#ask #anon #brother in christ i do not feel like tagging every oc

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anikasenkujo · 10 days

Text

my mind forgot you, my heart couldn’t.

shyna/shy • 29 • she/her • indian • main: @jotatetsuken • minors DNI • in character asks (ICA) and oc asks are welcome • PFP: @jctaro • tags navigation • byf/dni • AO3 carrd for all of shyna’s OCs and their Stands (thank you cherry for suggesting the carrd idea 💗) • to go through them in depth, read under the cut

Anika Sen: Banner — @iceicewifey (Hashtag: #anika sen)

Karan Bose:

Rhea Singh:

Serena 'Rosso Vino' Vitale:

Dawn FM Records [WIP]:

About Dawn FM Records | About Abel Mac, the founder | The Murder Mystery | Morioh Melody MixUp, music festival in Morioh

#NEW NAVI :D #also NEW OC'S YAY!#this needed an upgrade so i hope y'all enjoy this <3 #also yeah a new miniverse xD

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omniars · 1 year

Video

youtube

Marco Mengoni vince il Festival di Sanremo2023. Erica Taci cover @MarcoM...

- #EricaTaci Erica Taci tributo a @MarcoMengoni , canta L'essenziale. Segui @Ericaofficialmusic . - Marco Mengoni vince il Festival di Sanremo2023. Erica Taci cover #MarcoMengoni - vince #MarcoMengoni #DueVite #vincitore #Sanremo23 Festival di Sanremo SanremoRai Mengoni vince il festival delle polemiche Trionfo annunciato del cantante di Ronciglione. Ultimo solo quarto, Giorgia fuori da una top 5 tutta al maschile. Fedez attore protagonista occulto. La voce della verità è quella di Gino Paoli: "Sanremo è una gabbia di matti" mengoni vince festival sanremo finale classifica Nel festival delle sorprese sul palco, perfino per gli stessi conduttori che hanno dovuto gestire imprevisti e imbarazzi, c'era una certezza dall'inizio. Marco Mengoni era il favorito e Marco Mengoni ha vinto con 'Due vite'. Ultimo, che veniva indicato come il suo rivale più pericoloso, è finito solo quarto. Nella cinquina a sorpresa sono entrati tre giovani artisti: Lazza con 'Cenere' (secondo), Mr. Rain con 'Supereroi' (terzo) e Tananai con 'Tango' (quinto). Fuori dalla top five Giorgia. Tutti artisti uomini, un particolare che ha colpito la sensibilità del vincitore: "Dedico questo premio a tutte le donne in gara che hanno portato canzoni meravigliose". Colapesce Di Martino si sono presi i premi 'Mia Martini' e 'Lucio Dallà assegnati dalla stampa alla loro 'Splash', il riconoscimento per il miglior testo è andato ai Coma_Cose. Protagonista della polemica del giorno è sempre Fedez che, dopo aver strappato una foto del viceministro Galeazzo Bignami e chiesto alla premier di legalizzare la marijuana, riceve un bacio sulla bocca da Rosa Chemical, in risposta a chi ha parlato dell'edizione più "fluida" di sempre. E Fiorello in collegamento Instagram ci ricama risate: ""Domani saltano i dirigenti della Rai ma è un festival stupendo". 'Fiore' ne ha per tutti :"Oggi è una puntata serena e tranquilla, vi siete guadagnati la prima pagina di 'Avvenire'; "Fedez, che te ridi, si è vista pure la lingua"; "Inquadratemi Coletta, fatemelo vedere per l'ultima volta"; "Avete controllato i testi di Gino Paoli? Achille Lauro sembrava Cristina D'Avena al confronto". #mengoni L'essenziale è un singolo del cantante italiano Marco Mengoni, Il brano ha vinto il Festival di Sanremo 2013 e nello stesso anno, il suo video musicale ufficiale, ha vinto il Premio Roma Videoclip nella sezione Il cinema incontra la musica - fu presentato durante la prima serata del Festival di Sanremo 2013, come il primo brano nella categoria Big. Il brano, sfidandosi contro il secondo inedito presentato dal cantante, Bellissimo, passò il turno durante la votazione combinata di giuria e televoto, ottenendo il 55% delle preferenze. In occasione dell'ultima serata della manifestazione, L'essenziale ottenne la vittoria alla manifestazione canora. Il brano è stato scelto per rappresentare l'Italia all' #EurovisionSongContest 2013 tenutosi a Malmö (Svezia), classificandosi al settimo posto. Successivamente il brano vince all'Eurosong Awards 2013 come Meilleur chanson de l'année EricaTaci, nasce a Firenze il 06/11/1998, vive a Borgo San Lorenzo (FI). Si affaccia alla musica fin dalla tenera età di 5 anni e scopre di avere la necessità vitale di scrivere e comporre continuamente testi, sia in inglese (che sente come seconda lingua) che in italiano, e melodie al pianoforte. Capisce con gli anni che questo nasce dal bisogno di colmare un vuoto, purtroppo non conosce suo padre e cresce con sua madre e sua sorella. Dai 13 ai 18 anni frequenta corsi di canto e un corso di scrittura con Grazia di Michele. A 14 anni vince il suo primo concorso di canto, grazie al voto del pubblico. E' attualmente opinionista a BellaMà su Raidue programma pomeridiano condotto da Pierluigi Diaco. FILO ROSSO Filo rosso ci racconta che nonostante questo particolare periodo storico, fatto di distanze forzate e di conflitti internazionali, siamo in qualche modo tutti legati da un filo invisibile attraversato da sentimenti comuni a tutti, passando dall’indifferenza fino ad arrivare alla speranza. Erica Taci Fanclub Erica Taci Senza Senso

#youtube #ericataci #marco mengoni #sanremo #vince #marcomengoni #erica taci #canta #cover #song #songwriter #cantautrice #bellama #firenze #eurovision #2023 #2023 grammys #spotify #disco

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youdontjustgiveup · 6 months

Text

August: Chapter 2

( ao3 | ff )

Previous Chapters: [link]

Summary: The night of the party begins, and Blair is filled with nervous anticipation. However, the evening takes an unexpected turn when Georgina Sparks appears, draped on Chuck's arm, and Nate's promised surprise fades into oblivion. Blair flees.

Pairing: Chuck x Blair

Word Count: 3.3k

Rating: General Audiences

Warnings: None

Notes: Special thanks to @last-wish for all his help beta-reading and sharing his infinite wisdom with me.

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

Blair stood before the full-length mirror, delicately tracing the tulle fabric of the black dress that enveloped her. The strapless dress, with open back and sweetheart neckline, elegantly accentuated her upper body. It hugged her with a beautifully decorated bodice before flowing into a wide skirt that cascaded down to her knees. The dress evoked the sensation of a princess on the verge of a fairy-tale night, brimming with promise.

However, the room was charged with both apprehension and excitement. Beyond the thrill of Nate’s impending surprise and the vital need to bridge the gap that had been widening between them, Blair keenly felt how quickly every fairy-tale could crumble to dust. What could he be planning? Over the years, Nate Archibald had not been known for his thoughtfulness. Their relationship had largely sailed on autopilot, conforming to expectations without much deviation. Blair hadn’t questioned that—not even once. Their relationship had been easy, obvious, borderline boring, yet perfect.

Until it wasn’t.

Perhaps tonight was what they wanted, what they needed.

Determination, dormant for some time, surged within her as she gazed into her own eyes reflected in the mirror. She was prepared. Nerves fluttered in her stomach, the good kind–she reassured herself.

Blair reached for her diamond necklace on the vanity and carefully secured the clasp, allowing the gems to grace her collarbone. With one final touch of lip gloss, she took a deep breath and stepped away from the mirror.

Through the half-opened door, Serena’s voice drifted in, “Omg, B! You look absolutely amazing!”

Serena entered the room with a confidence that would surely break a few necks later that night. Draped in a flowing, lightweight maxi dress that extended in shades of azure blue and white, she exuded a captivating charm. The dress was artfully cinched at her waist, emphasizing her silhouette with a subtle belt. Her blonde hair tumbled in soft, luxurious waves over her shoulders, completing the picture. Effortlessly radiant Serena.

Her infectious smile warmed the room, and Blair couldn’t resist responding, “Don’t exaggerate, S. Look at yourself. No one can compete with you.”

“Thank God we don’t have to because you would definitely win. Truly, you look beautiful.”

Blair’s lips softened into a smile, touched by her friend’s infinite attempt to lift her spirits.

“Nate’s going to be speechless,” Serena insisted, noticing her lack of confidence.

“You really think so?”

“I know so.”

“He may have mentioned a surprise,” Blair admitted in a hushed voice. “I believe tonight is the night.”

Serena’s excitement bubbled over, and she immediately bounced on her feet.

“You’ve been waiting for this all year. This is it.”

“I really hope you’re right, Serena.”

“Trust me, B. We’ve both seen Nate plan surprises before, and when he goes all out, it’s unforgettable.”

What.

When had Nate–Nate Archibald, Blair’s boyfriend–ever planned an unforgettable surprise? For the second time that day, she tried to count the instances Nate had surprised her–and the tally wasn’t impressive. What was Serena talking about? When had he truly gone out of his way to plan something special? Perhaps Serena knew something about tonight that she didn’t. Yes, that had to be it.

Blair’s smile wavered slightly, but she maintained her bubbly façade for her best friend. “I guess you’re right. He definitely knows how to surprise someone.”

“You’ll see. So, are you ready?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be.”

With a supportive smile, Serena nodded. “Then let’s make tonight unforgettable.”

The two friends shared a brief, meaningful look before heading out, ready to embrace the surprises the evening had in store.

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

The party pulsed with life, fueled by flowing alcohol and blaring music. The offspring of the most esteemed families of the Upper East Side graced the event with their presence, and in the center of it all reigned Blair Waldorf herself. Most of them were just faces in the crowd, her minions rather than her real friends. Yet, in the midst of it all, there were a select few who held a place in Blair’s heart.

Serena’s voice cut through the noise as she engaged in conversation with Dan, or rather, argued with him. Humphrey had actually joined them and, after a promising start between the homeless boy and her best friend, things had regressed back to the status quo. Serena stood rigid, seemingly listening to whatever Dan was chastising her about. Maybe he was fuming over the chandeliers being two dollars above his taste. She could never tell.

On the opposite side, Chuck stood, flanked by a group of classmates. He gripped a glass of scotch, while Georgina Sparks adorned his arm. Leaning against Chuck’s side, the woman whispered heaven-knows-what into his ear. Chuck softly laughed, and Blair’s muscles tensed. Meanwhile, Nate was nowhere to be found. They had been inseparable at the start of the evening, but he had mysteriously disappeared after Dan’s arrival.

“Earth to Blair?” Penelope said.

“Pardon me?”

“Are you even listening to us?”

“Perhaps try saying something interesting for a change, Penelope.”

“Wasn’t Nate supposed to surprise you tonight?” Isabel interjected.

“Go away. Fetch me some champagne,” ordered Blair.

Where the hell had her boyfriend disappeared to? Earlier that evening, Nate had been nothing short of wonderful. His initial astonishment at her attire and appearance, along with his kind words and compliments still filled her with satisfaction. It was crystal clear that he was meticulously putting the finishing touches on her surprise. That had to be it. The signs were unmistakable. However, the time had come. The need to uncover her boyfriend’s whereabouts forced her to act.

“Excuse me,” Blair demanded, pushing through the crowd. “Ugh! Excuse me! Watch where you’re going!” she continued until she stood right in front of Chuck. And Georgina.

That woman. Who had extended an invitation to her? She wasn’t even elite, let alone deserving of a spot there.

The group turned their attention towards her.

“If you could excuse us, gentlemen.” Chuck motioned for the others to leave them alone. And when Chuck Bass issued an order, everyone followed.

“You too, Georgina,” Blair asserted. “Fuck off.”

“Language, princess. They’re hardly about to grant you passage to the kingdom.”

“I won’t repeat myself.”

“Too bad. I’m not going anywhere.”

Their stares locked in an intense showdown, daring each other to back down.

“Georgie, do as you’re told,” Chuck’s voice retained its commanding yet composed tone.

“Georgie?” Blair scoffed, her teeth clenched.

Georgina’s grip tightened as she pressed herself even closer to Chuck’s side. To Blair’s satisfaction, Chuck tried to create some distance between them. To her dismay, he didn’t persist further in trying to convince her to leave.

“What do you want, Blair?” Chuck inquired, “Is Nathaniel a disappointment already?”

“Where is he?”

“Maybe you should know that since, you know, he’s your boyfriend.”

“Next time, put a leash on your dog. That way he won’t stray when there’s no food on the table,” Georgina chimed in, a sly smile dancing on her lips. The implications weren’t lost on Blair, a bitter taste rising in her throat. It was a low blow, and Georgina knew it, but Blair was determined not to let her claim victory.

Blair’s lips curled up. “Ah, Georgina, dispensing canine advice now? How very fitting for someone who’s always been more bark than bite. But don’t worry, I’m sure there’s a chew toy somewhere that can keep you occupied.”

“I’m sure I have everything I need right here,” Georgina retorted, her tone dripping with suggestion.

“Chasing everyone else’s leftovers over and over again won’t fill your own plate.”

“At least I know how to get someone to beg for more.”

“Oh, please,” Blair rolled her eyes dramatically. She wasn’t backing down. “The only thing people beg of you is for a moment’s peace.”

Chuck, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes, intervened, disentangling himself from Georgina. “Go away. We’ll talk later.”

“Talk? Oh, I can come up with a lot more than just talk, darling.”

With a final challenging look cast at Blair, Georgina excused herself, her departure rife with underlying tension. Who did she think she was?

Chuck turned towards Blair. “Never a dull moment with you two.”

“You’re welcome,” Blair paused, as if considering her words. “I still can’t fathom how you manage to tolerate her.”

“Fortunately, I don’t have to.”

“You’re disgusting, and your lack of taste is truly astonishing.”

“Is that so?”

Blair’s fingers tightened, her nails digging into her palms. Each of Chuck’s innuendos felt like a prick against her skin, an itch she couldn't scratch. What exactly was bothering her? The answer remained elusive, but the mere thought of Georgina Sparks unsettled her, especially when intertwined with Chuck.

“Bass, spill it. Where is Nate?”

“Thought he was supposed to be under your watchful eye tonight. Both of you enjoying that highly anticipated surprise you can’t seem to shut up about.”

“And yet, here I am with you, not with him,” Blair shot back.

“There are definitely worse ways to meet one’s end, Waldorf.”

“Worse than with you? I doubt it.”

“You wound me,” he feigned hurt, then resumed, “Did the grand plan fall flat already?”

“It hasn’t even started yet.”

“What do you want me to say?”

“I saw you two whispering at the beginning of the night. You’re hiding something. So, tell me. What is it?” Blair persisted, her determination unwavering.

Chuck’s gaze grew more intense. “Poking around for secrets can lead down treacherous paths,” he cautioned.

Before Blair could inquire further, Nate’s unexpected arrival diverted their conversation.

“Look.” Chuck signaled in Nate’s direction. “There’s Prince Charming.”

Blair turned and followed Chuck’s line of sight. Across the room, Nate’s eyes were frantically sweeping through the crowd. Straightening herself, she awaited that anticipated moment when their gazes would meet. Yet, they never did. It became increasingly clear that Nate was looking for someone other than her. Blair felt her body tense. Nate stumbled slightly, his movements unsteady and his usual poise somewhat adrift.

“Is he…?” She murmured to Chuck, her hope resting on his ability to read her mind, as he always did. Chuck gently laid his hand on her forearm, and she brushed aside the tingling sensation that seemed to be radiating outward. “He can’t be.”

“He can’t be this stupid.” Chuck said, not meaning for her to hear.

“Why is he drunk, Chuck?” Her voice wavered, a hint of tremor threatening to betray her composure. “He was supposed to…”

As if in response, her fingers twitched, a subtle quiver that she tried to conceal. The unexpected turn of events left Blair seeking Chuck’s reassurance and prompted her to lean into him, drawing on some of his strength. “What is he doing?”

“Let’s go.”

Chuck released her, and she immediately missed the contact. Presenting a brave face and regal posture, she approached Nate.

“Where the fuck are you going?” Chuck reached him first, placing a hand on Nate’s chest to halt his movements.

Nate’s hesitant attempt to reach his new destination made Blair freeze for a moment. Was Nate trying to get to Serena? No, that couldn’t be right. This couldn’t actually be happening. At the other side of the room, Serena remained deeply engrossed in her argument with Dan. Now, Serena was the one doing the talking, and it was clear that Dan wasn’t pleased. But then again, that wasn’t exactly anything new.

“I need to talk to–” Nate tried.

“Blair.” Chuck interjected dryly, preventing Nate from finishing the sentence. “And give her the fucking surprise.” His tone held a tinge of urgency and exasperation.

Why was Chuck trying harder than Nate? Especially since he had almost taunted her about it minutes earlier.

“What surprise?” Her boyfriend asked, seemingly clueless, and Blair’s face fell. The urge to run surged within her. Watching as Chuck tried to lead Nate away to a more private location, she couldn’t help but listen.

“The surprise. You know, the one you’ve been preparing for days. Come on, man.” Chuck’s voice dropped lower. “The deck. And the champagne.”

“Shit.” Nate appeared to sober up at that very moment.

So, her boyfriend had forgotten the elaborate and unforgettable surprise he had meticulously planned for days. All day, she had excitedly raved about it, only for him to completely blank on it after just over an hour. Fantastic. Chuck looked at her again, and the weight of his gaze became unbearable.

“Get lost, Bass. You’ve done enough,” she said, devoid of gratitude. Blair Waldorf loathed nothing more than exposing her vulnerabilities. It made her feel defenseless, weak–an emotion she couldn’t endure any longer.

Chuck would undoubtedly approach Georgina and laugh about how foolish and fragile she was. How broken. Poor Blair Waldorf. Gushing about a boyfriend who wasn’t even truly hers. Georgina was right.

“All yours.”

“So, what is this all about, Nate?” she inquired once Chuck was gone, her feet stepping lightly, arms now crossed over her chest.

“Come on. I need to show you.”

“I’m not going anywhere with you until you tell me what you have been doing and why you are drunk,” she asserted herself.

“I was just planning the surprise, and I might have gotten carried away. I’m sorry.” His words were slightly slurred.

“I don’t believe you.”

“What would you like me to say, Blair? Because I’ll say it.”

“The truth.” Poking around for secrets can lead down treacherous paths. She didn’t care. She wanted answers.

“That’s the truth, Blair,” he lied, “Just let me show you what I planned.”

The worst thing was his presumption that he could win her over with gifts, surprises and kind words. She was tired of it all. Frustration caused her to place a hand over her face.

“Blair, please.”

Yet, this was Nate. Her boyfriend since age six. He was her person, wasn’t he? She almost laughed. It couldn’t be farther from the truth, but what choice did she have? She wanted to cry. But there was no way she would do that, not in a million years, especially not in front of all these people who only wanted to see her fall.

Georgina stood by Chuck’s side once again, her gaze directed towards Blair. She couldn’t even wait a minute before attaching herself like a tick.

What choice did she truly have? None. Her path only guided her one way.

“Okay,” Blair resigned herself, “Show me.”

She forced herself to smile, suppressing the queasiness in her stomach and ignoring the disorienting swirl of her thoughts. She had to be happy. She had to.

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

Nate’s surprise presented itself as a deceptive corner of intimacy, contrasting with the Hamptons’ opulence. She followed him to the far away deck at the back of the house, away from the chatter and laughter of the people. Her heart broke at the sight. It was a tranquil oasis beneath the starlit sky, where the gentle lapping of the waves provided a soothing backdrop. The spot they had frequented as children. A place where simplicity had reigned; they had talked, laughed, and counted stars together. A time when they had been one. When had the seams of their relationship started to fray, leaving behind two fractured souls? How could they take the next step when their connection had eroded into something unrecognizable?

In stark contrast to her internal tumult, a small table adorned with tasteful elegance awaited them. Candles danced in the soft breeze, casting warm, flickering light that played on their faces. Beside them laid her treasured macarons and a chilled bottle of champagne, a testament of how well Nate knew her. So, why did she feel so hollow when she should be overflowing with love?

Nate started to rattle off like he was reciting a love letter.

Wasn’t this what she yearned for? Her boyfriend showing her he cared, affirming his commitment to making things right. To fight for them.

Why couldn’t she see anything other than complete indifference in those blue eyes of his?

Nate continued to ramble incessantly, affording her no reprieve. Now, his constant apologies felt coerced, insincere, a shallow charade on a pretty face. How cruel life could be–on top of the world one moment and plummeting into the abyss the next. The table and the candles incited tears, and she didn’t even want to think about the food.

And then, the minute he placed that precious necklace in her hands, an urgent need to flee coursed through her veins. It was too much. Every nerve in her body screamed for escape. It sparkled like a hidden treasure, its beauty echoing the sentiment behind the gesture. A reminder of Nate’s unwavering affection. Except it wasn’t. Not at all.

Nate begged her to stop running. However, for the first time in her life, she didn’t listen.

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

Entering the kitchen, two partygoers passionately making out on the counter caught Blair off guard. Their identities were a struggle to discern as she fervently prayed to every god, despite her atheism, that it wasn’t Chuck and Georgina. That scenario on an empty stomach after what happened with Nate became too much to bear; one encounter with that devilish woman had been more than enough. What on earth did Chuck see in her? Her mind spun, and her vision blurred, even without a drop of alcohol. She steadied herself against the doorframe.

The girl was blonde, thank God. A breath she didn’t know she’d been holding escaped her. Nonetheless, her plan now seemed unfeasible. The idea of approaching the fridge, retrieving whatever lay inside, and consuming it amidst the backdrop of fervent moans and sucking sounds was completely off the table. Nor did she wish to risk the chance of those two or anyone else noticing her. Oblivious to her presence, the couple remained engrossed in their activities.

There were a couple of unopened champagne bottles amidst the plethora of alcoholic beverages Chuck had chosen to grace the occasion with. Bottles like the one Nate had carefully chosen for her surprise. Her favorite. Without hesitation, she swiftly snatched one of the bottles and bolted out like a bat out of hell.

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

Blair found herself seated in her cherished, secluded corner of the beach. Although, in essence, it was their corner. Throughout the years, this hidden haven had become a sanctuary for her. Nestled at the far right end of the beach, accessible through a path scattered with rocks, it offered a sense of seclusion. Though the distant echoes of the ongoing party still reverberated, she made an effort to muffle the noise and immerse herself in the rhythmic embrace of the waves.

The bottle of champagne rested nonchalantly by her heels, and she took yet another sip directly from it, eliciting a sigh as a subtle dizziness began to envelop her. Her dress lay crumpled beneath her, her eyes puffy, and her hair a mess. How classy. As the pitch-black waves broke over the shore in a ghostly white, the turmoil in her mind seemed to gradually subside. A third sip. Wasn’t that what she wanted? To forget.

If only he were there. Above all else, she yearned for his presence, his appearance at the faintest hint of her distress, much like he had done countless times before. Because as much as this place was hers, it was equally his, if not more so. No one else knew about it, apart from Chuck. Their beacon of solace. The very first time she had chased him there, he had been a mere eight-year-old. Almost a decade ago, as she neared her room, the sound of Bart’s furious reprimands and mutterings about a ruined suit reached her ears. And then, the unmistakable sound–a sharp, resonant impact followed by silence. Chuck had fled the scene in haste, inadvertently colliding with her during his escape, and she had instinctively followed. When they reached this corner of heaven, he screamed and tried to get her to leave; this was his spot, his exclusive domain. But she stood her ground. She did so ten more times that very same summer. Now, it was theirs, no one else’s.

But Chuck was occupied with the pest that was Georgina Sparks. Blair tightened her grip on the bottle’s neck.

“Waldorf.”

#gossip girl #gossip girl fanfiction #chuck x blair #chuck bass #blair waldorf #chair #chair fanfiction #chuck x blair fanfiction #fics #*#thank you so much for reading ♡

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