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wilbursoot-updates · 10 months

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Lovejoy Take the Indie Rock Scene by Storm

Lovejoy is in this article!

Formed in 2021, Lovejoy is one of the newest and hottest bands in the indie rock world, building their name around their snappy lyricism, captivating melodies, and overall playful personalities. Comprised of lead vocalist Will Gold, guitarist Joe Goldsmith, bassist Ash Kabosu, and drummer Mark Boardman, the English quartet has already built quite the following through the releases of their three EPs. Their most recent release, Wake Up & It’s Over, came out in May this year, debuting at No. 5 on the UK album charts. Their schedules have been packed, as they did their first US headline tour this spring, topped off by a performance on the main stage at New York’s Governors Ball Music Festival. I had the absolute honor and pleasure of catching up with the guys after their performance at GovBall to discuss their recent successes, unexpected influences, and their hidden abilities:

To start off, let’s discuss your performance earlier today! How was it getting to play at GovBall and see all of your fans?

Will Gold: It was really, really fun.

Ash Kabosu: It was really cool. It’s like the end of a long-ass tour. It was a really nice endcap to everything we’ve been doing in America. It was cool to play New York again. We were here in December last year, and New York crowds are always really cool. I always fucking love this place!

WG: GovBall’s been absolutely incredible so far. Our set was really fun, and it’s always a pleasure to do any sort of main stage or any big stage that we get to perform our songs. It’s always a bit of a blessing.

Joe Goldsmith: We’ve done quite a few festivals, and I think we’ve played the best that we’ve played at any festival. We’ve done four, and that was the best we’ve played.

AK: Actually, we’ve done five! We played Manchester twice.

JG: I’d say that was the best we’ve performed. It was really fun.

Are there any artists that you’re hoping to catch while you’re here?

AK: A ton! I want to see Oliver Tree, Snail Mail

JG: Kenny Beats, Suki Waterhouse would be cool.

AK: Suki is fucking great; we’ve seen them at a few festivals now, and they’re really nice.

Are there any artists that you’re inspired by that fans might be surprised by?

AK: It is only basslines, so you don’t really notice, but I take a lot of inspiration from Idiot Pilot. They’re a small band from back in the emo days. I really like Loathe; I think they’re incredible. They’re just a completely different genre, and you wouldn’t really notice if I didn’t tell you just now.

WG: I get a lot of rhythms from Japanese math rock.

Mark Boardman: A lot of my style of playing comes from bands like Northlane and all these metalcore bands, like Thornhill. Even old stuff from Bring Me The Horizon, that’s the stuff that got me into double kick and stuff. Northlane, especially with the cymbal placement and the double kicks, the space, I love it.

JG: Sometimes I get some weird guitar influences from shoegaze bands, like DIIV or Slowdive, bands like that. It’s stuff like that but also random Japanese city rock from the 80s.

Japan is always living in the future!

JG: Yeah, it’s so cool!

WG: Specific bands that I really like are tricot, Chon, things like that.

I love that you guys mentioned these other influences and how they play a role in your current creation! Are there any other genres that you want to dabble in or draw inspiration from in the future?

JG: I really want Mark to do a jungle drum breakdown at some point in a song because jungle drums are fucking so catchy and boppy, and they’re so fun to groove to. I think we could pull it off, so I think that’s going to be a challenge for Mark.

MB: That’d be really sick. We’d get to experience playing around with a lot of different sounds because it’s a whole lot of cymbals and shit, so that’d be really fun to do that. We’d have to see where it fits though. We’ll get it done.

Which song of yours do you think defines your band the most?

WG: That’s kinda “Call Me What You Like.” Or “Portrait of a Blank Slate.”

AK: We’re still kinda figuring who we are, so it’s difficult to kinda pin it down. I think the songs are just different periods of our development, so I guess it’d be the most recent ones.

What was it like forming your band over the past few years and getting to tour the world so quickly in your careers?

WG: Different. I don’t know if it was more or less difficult. I feel like bands that form and grow on the Internet seem to have a lot of scrutiny for bands that grow the old-fashioned touring way and vice versa—bands that tour and go through that tend to have a lot of scrutiny for the Internet bands. I feel like we could all learn something from each other. I feel like there’s a lot of crossover and important things we can learn. We definitely haven’t done it perfectly, but we’ve done it our way, and that’s what matters.

AK: I feel bad for the bands that are forced to make TikToks all the time. That shit sucks, dude. Just let them make music; that’s what they’re good at!

WG: I like making TikToks.

AK: Yeah, but that’s us: we’re Internet-brained.

If you could switch roles with one of your bandmates for a day, whose role would you want to take on?

WG: Probably Ash.

AK: I’m very happy being me.

It’d be just for a day!

WG: Oh, I’d be the bassist.

AK: I’d be Mark just so I could understand how his brain works.

WG: Oh, we’re being in the other person’s brain? I thought we were just switching instruments.

It’s just switching roles, not bodies!

AK: Oh, okay! Well, not Mark. I would fuck that up so bad.

MB: I want to be Joe and do a guitar solo, slide on my knees. I’d be lead [guitar].

AK: I also want to be lead [guitar].

JG: I’d sing. Nobody wants to be drums.

If you could devise a conspiracy theory involving your band, what would it be?

JG: We're not real.

AK: Yeah, we’re actually AI-generated. We were an earlier iteration of ChatGPT that actually fabricated itself into human beings. It’s very advanced; you’ll probably see this roll out in the next 4-5 years. There’ll be loads of AI bands—we’re the first.

WG: Mine would be that we started the Spanish flu. You remember that pandemic 490 years ago or whatever it was? It definitely wasn’t rampant civilization and technological booms and livestock.

If there were band member Olympics, what events would there be?

MB: Hot dog eating.

Do you guys do a lot of hot dog eating?

MB: Oh yeah, we’re glizzy munchers.

WG: Do we?

MB: Me and Joe don’t eat meat, so yeah, lots of hot dogs!

WG: Don’t ask Mark any more questions! 100-meter, discus, archery, let’s just have the full shebang! I don’t know how we’ll do it, but I just want to see how we’ll do.

AK: I’m not really good at any physical capacity-

WG: Bobsled.

Don’t they have video games now in the Olympics?

JG: Esports type shit! I was thinking skating, as well.

AK: I’ll do some longboarding then.

JG: I’ll play some Tetris for a gold medal.

Any messages you’d like to send your fans?

JG: You’re the best. We appreciate everything that you say and give to us, except for Steve. We don’t care for Steve.

After our quick chat, the guys huddled around a tree in the media area to take portraits, which immediately escalated into a climb up the tree to pose for a few photos. Even in our short time together, all of them were incredibly gracious and took every opportunity to let each of their personalities shine, whether it be through silly facial expressions in their individual photos or laughing along to one another’s goofy mannerisms. Although they were one of the opening acts of the Saturday lineup, their fans came out to show their support, screaming along to each song as if Lovejoy were headlining the main stage. One other photographer mentioned to me that a fan told him that they were only at GovBall to see Lovejoy play, which is true commitment.

Since their GovBall appearance, the band has since played Glastonbury Festival in England and Open’er Festival in Poland, topped off by a headline spot at Belgium’s Rock Werchter. For a band in their earliest years, it’s evident that this is not the last you’ll hear of Lovejoy as the band continues to grow and tour the world. The massive support that they’ve garnered over the past few years is also a testament to their talent and their potential to be one of the biggest names within the indie rock scene as a whole. If you haven’t already hopped on the Lovejoy train, there’s no better time than the present, as there’s no telling what they’ll achieve next!

#lovejoy #wilbur soot #ash kabosu #mark boardman #joe goldsmith #governor's ball #articles

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danwhobrowses · 7 months

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One Piece Chapter 1095 - Initial Thoughts

We are back

and the big guns have come out to play

Luffy's down, Kizaru's down, Bonney's dangling off a demon And it's been 6 weeks since we last saw Nico Robin, we just want her back safe

TCB has been slow and tumblr's already showing panels so I had to use mangaspurs today, translations are a bit more wonky on that side so sorry if a bit of context is lost.

Spoilers for the Chapter, Support the Official Release too

Another monkey thief cover page this time with Buggy's nose

Marines naturally panic, those who don't want the upper part of their face removed are heading for the hills in confusion

Those allowed to see are of course ready for action as Bonney has stabbed a Gorosei

Saturn however stops them 'If I didn't want to get stabbed I would've dodged'

Whatever Saturn is doing it seems to be sourced from his eyes, as he fires a projectile (still thinking Haki) to knock Bonney off and grab her

Sanji tries the same but he also gets headstruck

The sword wound heals as well when removed, as anticipated

The Vice Admirals circle Vegapunk and the pirates, but again Saturn wards them off, very confident about the situation

He also reprimands Kizaru for taking so long

Kizaru is conscious, but he admits that he cannot move, which Luffy all deflated and wrinkly understands, so I'd say that counts as Luffy defeating an Admiral

Saturn though quickly goes to stamp the life outta Luffy

Franky for the save with a Strong Right to get him out of trouble

Saturn exudes his confidence by reminding that even though Luffy and Bonney's appearances are unexpected, they are massively surrounded

I wouldn't challenge fate in finding a way to escape Saturn, there's a giant leaving its slumber...

He thanks Vegapunk for his contributions, but then asks him - in order of most painful - who he should kill first? As they want him to suffer for opposing the World Government

It seems like Saturn also has some kinda pressure that's keeping Sanji, Franky and Vegapunk from approaching him

Bonney however stares daggers at Saturn claiming he killed her father

Not only was Kuma a slave before, he was also apparently from a tribe that 'committed a great crime', the Buccaneer people

I'm guessing it's Buccaneer because they translate it like 3 different ways in this chapter

That knowledge has surprised Vegapunk, either he was sure they didn't know or he didn't know

Surrounded by Marines and held up by Saturn as he orders them to shoot her head, Bonney remembers the words of her father, words about his young desires to bring freedom, and be like the Sun God Nika

Sanji and Vegapunk protest her execution, but they're still held down

Bonney asking Kuma if Nika will set her free is telling too, was Bonney also once a slave?

Kuma Flashback Time, right into his birth in the Sorbet Kingdom 47 years ago

Nani? Gentle, caring parents who unconditionally love their child? I can hear the death bells already

It seems the father was known as Klap, Bartholomew Klap, and he had the Buccaneer blood passed down to Kuma

The WG seemed intent about erasing it since they had spies in the hospital when Kuma was born, who leaked the information

Naturally the dragons took Klap back as a slave, along with Kuma and his mother despite Klap's protests

Kuma was strong as a kid, but abused

While in slavery the mother did die, Klap had to tell Kuma so I'd guess the Dragons killed her

Klap also tells Kuma about Nika, the same way Kuma would tell Bonney

But that would be his last tale to tell, as the Dragons shoot him in front of Kuma for being 'too noisy'

38 years ago in the West Blue we skip ahead

The Celestial Dragons are literally culling people in a non-WG country, and they do it every 3 years!?

This time it's God Valley!

God Valley wasn't even a Celestial Dragon place, they just wanted its resources and are killing the natives...how colonial

The King of God Valley doth protest, and protest until his swift death

Young Figarland Garling is the culprit, he's popular with the ladies and seemed unfazed by getting deducted 10,000 points for killing someone before the start

This time they're also sending out problematic slaves into the cull

And Saturn was there, completely unchanged in age

This is the field we saw in Kuma's memory bubble with Bonney, he was trying to escape God Valley and was being dragged back

Someone from the top notices that Kuma has Buccaneer blood

Buccaneers apparently have giant's blood too, maybe furthering the whole theory of Joy Boy being a giant before

There's only one person in the world with a laugh like that though

Young Ivankov was a slave too, and had a sister, Jinny, who looks like she'd be Bonney's mother given her looks and the fact that she's already eating meat

And now a break? Oda c'mon man, that means it'll be at least 8 weeks since we last saw Nico Robin

Well it looks like we will be delving into that Kuma flashback after all.

Not much else to tell I don't think, good to verify that Kizaru is defeated, and that Saturn is more than just talk I mean he did floor Sanji with a glare.

Given the build up I feel like Luffy is gonna - pun intended - bounce back to save Bonney, since he is Nika, but then the Sleeping Giant may assist with the rest. I am still hoping that Franky can get some shine in this arc but not as hopeful. We didn't get any of Zoro vs Lucci either so unclear how that's going, it should've been over before this anyway.

The Kuma flashback is already hitting us with surprises though; God Valley didn't belong to the Celestial Dragons, but then what does that make of the incident? Ivankov and Kuma were there so will we see it? Roger and Garp had to defend the Celestial Dragons, but were they more defending the slaves the Dragons had already planned to slaughter? We also have to wonder how baby Shanks ended up in a treasure chest. The introduction of Jinny being potentially Bonney's mother adds more implications, since that'd mean that Bonney is also Ivankov's niece, unless the clone theory on Bonney is that Bonney is in fact a clone of Jinny raised as Kuma's daughter. There's also the matter of Buccaneer races, if Bonney is biologically Kuma's daughter shouldn't she have those genes too that the WG would wanna erase? A new chapter of questions has opened and unravelled.

But seriously where is Nico Robin???

#one piece #one piece spoilers #op spoilers #monkey d luffy #franky one piece #vinsmoke sanji #egghead island arc #egghead island #future island arc #dr vegapunk #jewelry bonney #bartholomew kuma #figarland garling #saint jay garcia saturn #gorosei #celestial dragons #emporio ivankov #sun god nika

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pecanwriter · 7 months

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New story is up on DeviantArt now! The reason I'm not posting it here is that it's not really a fetish story. It's about weight gain (and a very substantial one at that) but the MC is not a gainer nor a feedee, it's more of a character study of someone struggling with his new unexpected circumstances. But still, I really wanted to write it and I hope at least some of you might enjoy a more serious piece!

The story relates to this drawing!

#weight gain story #wg fiction

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acapelladitty · 2 years

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can we get a lil something where Crane genuinely comforts his WG during a moment of sadness? ...even just a couple of sentences... ... pretty please🥹🖤

Only cause you caught me in a good mood 😉

Eyes scanning through the email with a frantic darting motion, the words 'regret to inform you' fall heavily into your chest as your phone shakes within a trembling hand.

"Rejected! They rejected my paper!" Cringing as you hear the risen octave of your voice, you drop it once again to quote directly from the offending email. "For 'displaying a lack of relevant field data'.".

"Some kind of mistake?" A crease forming in his brow, Crane turns from his costume mannequin to give you his attention. "Your data was both well presented and relevent to your hypothesis."

"The only thing I lack is being loose. This is my punishment for slapping one of the board members hands away after he got a little too touchy at an event years ago." Recalling the incident, disgust is quick to join the anger in your chest as you cuss him out. "The bastard. I knew he would be like this. Petty old bastard."

Frustration, all-consuming in its inferno, rages within your chest and the burn extends to your eyes as your vision quickly becomes suspiciously watery. Bringing the knuckles of your thumbs to your eyes, you wipe away the wetness there as a thick lump obscures your speech.

Six months.

Six months of work.

Gone in an instant.

Watching you, Crane sniffs in distaste.

"And you would give them the satisfaction of an emotional response?"

"Well, I wasnt expecting this and I can't really do much else. What would you d-"

Cutting yourself off as the stupidity of such a question caught up with your thoughts, instead you maintain a stubborn silence as you stretch your neck up to meet his gaze through your blurred vision.

His expression is more curious than anything as he moves to stand before you and he dips to his haunches in a surprisingly fluid movement to bring himself to your eye level.

"Academia often fails to celebrate those who are most deserving. They are too enshrouded in their limited worldviews to accept much else."

"That almost sounds like a compliment." You offer blearily, the disappointment in your stomach roiling and leaving a pit in its wake.

"Hmm, maybe it is."

"You only say that because you offered insight into my work."

"I only offered insight into your work because I saw potential." Crane counters smoothly. "I do not waste my time on fools or frivolity."

His hand comes to rest on your knee, giving the joint a slight squeeze as his other hand secures itself behind your neck in a familiar embrace.

"When my endeavours went punished for their brilliance, rather than accept it, I strived to rise above their petty morality to achieve something greater. I was not to be stopped and I harmed them in kind."

"Would me wanting to hurt them surprise you?" Slipping free, the question could not be taken back now.

"No. Your fleeting aptitude for violence is one of my favourite little sparks of yours, witty girl. Almost like a kitten who wants to scratch the hand that controls her but fears that her claws will wound too deeply and she will be punished."

Distracted by the analogy, you lean your head into his wrist and enjoy the unusual physical comfort he is offering.

"Would you punish me for clawing you?"

"Of course. Spare the rod, spoil the little mouse. However, I do not object to that resilience being targeted towards more suitable candidates."

Sighing but feeling considerably more settled by the unexpected show of support, your hand comes to settle atop his as it remains on your knee.

"Don't tempt me." You mutter darkly.

#the was mostly written between rounds of fortnite lmao so apologies for any nonsense #Jonathan crane #scarecrow #jonathan crane x reader #scarecrow x reader #gotham rogues

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nervousstarlightobserver · 1 month

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Okay so here’s the twins new lore…

Since it ended up in a three way tie, I’ll just use all three in one way or another. Just so you guys don’t get confused, I’ll label which ones which. I will also break down their lore into two parts

New -> (Old) -> [Oldest] —Story wise at least

Crowley (Cain) [Castor]; Didn’t mean to give him all C names

Montoya (Abel) [Pollux]

Castor’s Story

Their shared “name” is S-Hawk (Pending. Will change later). But since Vegapunk only expected one and not two they decided to have a little side project. Project Gemini.

He wanted to see how different/similar the twins would be considering Mihawk is—presumably—an only child. These were relatively tame by comparison to his other stuff. He’d test them together and separated just to see the results. The two of them became close while they were under Vegapunk’s care. They were raised fairly normal while under Vegapunk. They also gained their first name—their “birth” name. Castor and Pollux. It was given to them by one of Vegapunk’s assistants. They told them the story of their name and why they were called Project Gemini.

Castor and Pollux were a pair of twins boys with their twin sisters Helen and Clytemnestra. One immortal (Pollux and Clytemnestra) and one mortal (Castor and Helen). The immortal twin was a child of Zeus and the mortal twin was a child of Tyndareus, the King of Sparta. As the twin boys grew older they became great hunters and sailors {For the sake of the story, they aren’t horse riders. I know this, but them being horse riders does not make sense in the Context of One Piece}. One day, while Castor was on lookout, he was ambushed by his cousins Idas and Lynceus and was fatally wounded—but not before warning his brother of the ambush. Pollux avenged his brother, with the help from his immortal father and Pollux returned to his dying brother and was given a choice by Zeus. Join him and ascend to Mount Olympus OR share half of his immortality with his brother. He chose to share his immortality and they became the two brightest stars in the constellation Gemini.

The Punks were less than thrilled when they discovered that their assistant named them, but they gave the justification that they called them Project Gemini and it would be fitting. It would also solve the whole shared name thing that had been confusing the hell out of them. But, they accepted as just another unexpected turn in life and the twins kept their names.

Castor was enthralled by the myth. He wanted to be just as great of a hunter as his mythological counterpart and be as brave to protect his Pollux. Whether it was just nominative determinism or the piece of Mihawk that made him so stubborn, it made him excel under pressure. He thrived in a competitive environment. And it wasn’t unnoticed as the WG stepped in.

They wanted to go further. Push the limits of the Seraphim Units to the absolute max. So they wanted to reflect that change in S-Hawk by changing Project Gemini to The Rebirth Project.

Castor and Pollux also had their names changed to Cain and Abel.

Cain was placed under heavy scrutiny as he was seen as the “stronger” twin by the WG. His more aggressive and competitive nature was seen as ideal compared to his more mild mannered twin. They cultivated his more aggressive behaviors while Abel was put more on the back burner. He wasn’t necessarily treated any better, he just didn’t have the expectation of Mihawk’s legacy weighing on his shoulders.

They wanted to stress test just how far they could take it. They kept the twins together to make Abel a bargaining chip. Either do what they ask or he gets punished.

If you don’t do this, he’ll get it instead.

Do you want to be separated?

Unfortunately, they underestimated just how stubborn Cain was. He became more uncooperative towards them and would fight back at every chance he got. He would: bite, scratch, kick, scream, anything so they couldn’t ignore him. Anything to not make them hurt his brother. They put up with it till Cain received his devil fruit. They originally wanted both the twins to recive the same devil fruit just to keep everything the same in the case of losing Cain, but with how badly (or how well) Cain took to the devil fruit he became impossible to control with Abel still around. He was always overprotective of him and they almost succeeded as he cut the building in half making it easier for them to run away. His name is Castor and he will protect his brother.

If only they weren’t so young.

Their wings were little more than baby fuzz. No feathers to speak of. Complely useless to them. They were so close too. They were lucky that they weren’t caught early on. They were always fast. And they were about to reach the exit before they were hit with a tranquilizer.

They never saw each other again after that.

After Cain woke up, he found himself in solitary confinement to “cool down.” He spent his days in solitary slamming against the door screaming until he was knocked and started the cycle all over again. The walls, floors, and door were all sea stone. It was the first time he felt the effects of having a devil fruit. Another nail in the coffin to remind him of his failure to protect Pollux.

He was stripped of both his names and became just S-Hawk.

The tests became more grueling and punishing. His rebellious attitude being beaten out of him. This only served to piss him off even more. They want to control him? Well then…game on. In one test, he was forced to face off against several other swordsman and defeat them all in combat. Normally, he could’ve easily cut them down not problem. But that wasn’t what happened. Instead, he threw his sword to the ground and tore them. Limb. From. Limb. He turned his fingers and teeth into blades and lunged at the first guy, tearing out his throat and gouging out his eyes. The next guy had his arm rip off and was gutted where S-Hawk used his entrails to strangle the third guy. He continued his slaughter before turning his attention to the researchers. He easily broke through the protective glass and quickly dispatched as many of them as he could before being sedated.

Over the course of his “training” several more “accidents” occurred and deemed S-Hawk too unstable to continue in the Rebirth Project. He was placed under maximum security in solitaire confinement so that he would never, unless absolutely necessary, be released again. Until Vegapunk created the control chip. While being forced to create a control chip for Kuma, the WG modified his design to optimize control over the Seraphim Units. But to test the accuracy of the chip they needed a test dummy. And who better than their failed magnum opus.

S-Hawk was the first to receive the chip. After several, painful failed attempts they were able to get a semi-working copy of Kuma’s control chip that wouldn’t automatically kill them. And so, Cain was placed back in the Rebirth Project. The control chip doesn’t actually control them—at least not fully. It essentially forces their main consciousness to take a backseat leaving them in a constant state of dissociation. They are fully aware of their actions, they are just not able to control them.

After S-Hawk’s reintroduction, they finally decided to move on to the next step of their “evolution.” All of the seraphim units were given a general cybernetic upgrade and one specialized one. S-Hawk’s specialization was his eyes. They believed they could make it better. After all, it is Mihawk’s most notable trait.

It goes horribly wrong.

They wanted to be able to see S-Hawk’s emotional state and be able to make him a reliable security unit by making it possible to see through his eyes. These “upgrades” shot his range and made his vision worse. They also overheated easily causing him physical pain as it burned his eye sockets. And when he discovered that his eyes now changed color giving away any and all his emotions; it destroyed any and all hope for escape.

The only good thing to come out of these experiments was when he saw Abel in a hallway before he was swiftly ushered away to his next assignment.

Fast forward all the way to Egghead Island. After everything is said and done. Hawk, Snake, Bear, and Shark are now hitch hiking with the Strawhats as Egghead is set ablaze. Now free from the chip they can now just be people now.

He doesn’t know to be a person anymore.

Both of his names are larger than life. Literal myths that he was tasked with embodying. And yet he failed both times. Castor was supposed to die for his brother and Cain was supposed to kill his. And he did neither of these. He was too weak to be Castor. Too soft to be Cain. But what else was left otherwise?

He knew he didn’t want to be S-Hawk either. The only name he was certain of giving up. Then again he never considered it his name. It was always too impersonal and dehumanizing to be called…that. He didn’t want to live up to the expectation of Mihawk, he never wanted to in the first place! He was tired of living up to these larger than life legacies that he just couldn’t measure up too anymore.

So he chose Crowly. The name of an occultist that was then later used for the name of a fallen angel.

He had failed every single legacy he was ever given. He had always fallen short of it every time. Not fast enough. Not angry enough. Never strong enough. So what part of being a fallen angel could he disappoint? He had already failed three times in a row. What’s one more.

#one piece #one piece seraphim #s hawk #one piece au #fanfic #one piece mihawk #one piece fanart #hawkeye mihawk #dracule mihawk

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crackinglamb · 2 years

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Fic Author Self Rec

Tagged by @dreadfutures, thank you! 💕💕💕

Tagging @ir0n-angel, @fasterpuddytat, @pikapeppa, @sinsbymanka and @sorrelchestnut. No pressure, as ever.

When you get this, reply with your favourite five fics that you’ve written, then pass on to at least five other writers. Let’s spread the self-love.

I've written a lot, you know, over several fandoms. This was incredibly hard. In the end, I determined my own favorites are the ones I have reread over and over. And even then I'm gonna cheat with some honorable mentions at the end.

In chronological order:

1 - Unexpected (FO4, F!SoSu/Kellogg, rated E, 30K words, 'ware the tags). Listen, sometimes you just need to be the change you want to see in the world. Kellogg's arc disappointed me on many levels. From the standpoint of him being a 'villain' to the possibly haunting everyone's favorite synth bait. This was my first truly canon divergent AU, and I never meant for it to become a full fic, I honestly didn't. But I ended up falling in love with the concept I'd created, so I had to see it through to the end. I have a weakness for the broken ones. Tien Xu remains the OC with the darkest backstory. Seriously, pay attention to the tags if you read it.

2 - Accidental Synchronicity (ME, Jack|Subject Zero/Thane Krios, rated E, 17K words). Ahh, rarepairs. Completely unplanned ones, at that. To date I am still 22% of the ship's authors. A one off line in the main fic of my Shakarian series became a plot bunny that wouldn't quit. It grew into a slice of life romance that covered the events of ME2 and ME3, leading to canon's hamfisted ending for Thane. The only reason I didn't change it is because it was already established elsewhere. Still, it remains one of the fics I am most proud of.

3 - Hope Is a Fragile Thing (DA:I, Solas/OFC, rated T, 13K words). In a lot of ways this fic was an experiment. I love to write MCIT's, but it's hard to come up with a backstory sometimes, so I didn't make one. I wanted to write something post-canon, a favorite trope of mine. And I wanted to completely finish a fic before posting it. Many, many of you have found me because of Twist, which is light and relatively fluffy, to say nothing of its sequel that is pure, unadulterated sugar. But angst with a happy ending is my bread and butter.

4 - Of Ruins and Restoration (DA:I, Cadash & Solas, rated G, 3870 words). If you asked me where Lark Cadash came from, I would immediately blame Manka (with all the love, of course), because without her whole entire throng of Soladash works, I wouldn't have fallen down this rabbit hole. Suffice to say, I got hooked. And then I got Ideas(tm). OR&R is the culmination of many headcannons about dwarves, the desire to have more content for a ship I didn't know I needed and the feverish grip of the Muse that sprang out of my head wholecloth at the end of 2021. It is the introductory work for this character I've absolutely gone to pieces with love for. Eventually there will be more of it, but for now it stands alone as a oneshot. There is a companion oneshot that falls outside of her 'canon', as well.

5 - What a Wicked Game to Play (DA:I, Solas/OFC, rated E, 278K+ words, current WIP). 😏 Did you really think this wasn't going to make the list? WG is everything I have ever wanted to put into a fic, and Imogen is the character I have always wanted to write. Aside from being the new shiny (because it really isn't at this point), I have enjoyed almost every moment of digging into the lore and rebuilding it from the ground up. I have so many plans and so much left to tell for my curly haired girl.

Honorable Mentions (in no particular order):

Junkyard Dogs (FO4, F!SoSu/Hancock, rated E, 107K words) my very first fic.

No More My Heart Beats Without You (DA:I, Solas/F!Trevelyan, rated E, 5555 words), sad, angsty pwp. 'Ware the tags.

Unrepentant (DA:I, Solas/F!Lavellan, rated E, 3096 words), smutty dark!Solas Fade shenanigans.

And Maker Damned Fools (DA2-I, Varric/F!Hawke, rated E, 16K words), my vector into writing DA. I will go down with this ship.

#tagged #fic author self rec #dragon age #fallout 4 #mass effect #Lamb writes #...a LOT

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anti-solidcoffee · 6 months

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Guildtober Day 31 - Happy Halloween!

Obviously I have........not caught up lol to Guildtober (and I injured my arm so who knows when I'll get it done), but I made sure to at least finish the costumes/Halloween one! Maybe not as flashy as I was envisioning, but I did scan everyone independently so I can at least edit it all together different if I decide in the future

Anyway, happy Halloween!

#wg #wg me #wg muse #wg ideas #wg rea #wg ambition #wg unexpectations #dft eliot #wg ego #all art #guildtober 2023 #doodles

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yesgermany-manish · 15 days

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Budgeting Tips for Studying Abroad in Germany

Studying abroad is a thrilling adventure that opens doors to new cultures, experiences, and perspectives. Among the plethora of options available, Germany stands out as an excellent choice for international students seeking quality education, vibrant culture, and career opportunities. However, the prospect of managing finances while studying in a foreign country can be daunting. Fear not! We're here to equip you with expert budgeting tips to ensure your experience in Germany is not only enriching academically but also financially sustainable.

Read our Other Blogs: Higher Education Consultants

Understanding the Cost of Living

Before embarking on your journey to Germany, it's crucial to grasp the cost of living in your chosen city. While major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt may have higher expenses, smaller towns and rural areas tend to be more budget-friendly. Research thoroughly to estimate expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities. Websites like Numbeo and Expatistan provide comprehensive data on living costs, enabling you to plan your budget effectively.

Read our Other Blogs: Study in Germany Consultants

Tap into Scholarships and Financial Aid

One of the most effective ways to alleviate financial burden while studying abroad is by applying for scholarships and financial aid programs. Many universities in Germany offer scholarships specifically for international students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Additionally, government-sponsored scholarships like the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) provide generous funding opportunities for foreign students. Explore various scholarship options early on and submit applications diligently to maximize your chances of securing financial assistance.

Create a Detailed Budget Plan

Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial success during your study abroad journey. Start by creating a detailed budget plan that outlines your income sources and anticipated expenses. Factor in tuition fees, accommodation costs, groceries, utilities, transportation, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenses. Use spreadsheets or budgeting apps to track your spending and ensure you stay within your budgetary limits. Adjust your budget as needed to accommodate unexpected expenses or changes in financial circumstances.

Read our Other Blogs: German Visa Study Consultant

Explore Affordable Housing Options

Housing typically constitutes a significant portion of your overall expenses while studying abroad. To minimize costs, consider exploring affordable housing options such as student dormitories, shared apartments, or homestays. Student residences managed by universities often offer affordable rent and convenient amenities, fostering a supportive community of international students. Alternatively, websites like WG-Gesucht and Studenten-WG facilitate finding shared accommodation opportunities with local residents, enabling you to save money while immersing yourself in German culture.

Read our Other Blogs: German Visa Study Consultant

Embrace Frugal Living Habits

Adopting frugal living habits is key to stretching your budget and making the most of your financial resources. Prioritize needs over wants, distinguish between essential and discretionary expenses, and seek out cost-effective alternatives whenever possible. Cook meals at home instead of dining out frequently, opt for public transportation or cycling instead of owning a car, and take advantage of student discounts offered by restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Cultivate a mindset of resourcefulness and creativity to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle without overspending.

Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Activities

Germany boasts a wealth of free or low-cost activities that allow you to explore its rich cultural heritage without breaking the bank. Visit museums on designated free admission days, attend public lectures and events hosted by universities, explore scenic parks and gardens, and participate in community festivals and celebrations. Take advantage of student discounts for theater performances, concerts, and sports events, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture while staying within your budget constraints.

Read our Other Blogs: Masters in Germany Consultant

Monitor Currency Exchange Rates

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates can significantly impact your purchasing power and overall expenses while studying abroad. Stay informed about currency exchange rates and monitor trends to identify opportune times for currency conversion. Consider opening a local bank account in Germany to avoid hefty international transaction fees and streamline financial transactions. Utilize reputable currency exchange services or online platforms for exchanging currency at competitive rates, maximizing the value of your money.

Seek Part-Time Employment Opportunities

Supplementing your finances with part-time employment is a practical way to offset living expenses and gain valuable work experience while studying abroad. Many universities in Germany offer student-friendly job opportunities on campus, such as library assistants, research assistants, or tutors. Explore part-time job listings through university career services, job boards, or networking with local businesses. Ensure that your work schedule complements your academic commitments and complies with visa regulations governing international students' employment.

Read our Other Blogs: German admission consultants

Prioritize Health and Well-Being

Maintaining physical and mental health is essential for a fulfilling study abroad experience and contributes to overall well-being. Invest in health insurance coverage tailored for international students to safeguard against unexpected medical expenses. Take advantage of university health services and counseling resources to address any health concerns or emotional challenges effectively. Prioritize self-care practices such as regular exercise, nutritious eating, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques to thrive academically and personally while abroad.

Read our Other Blogs: German Institute in Bangalore

Conclusion

Studying abroad in Germany is a transformative journey filled with endless opportunities for personal and academic growth. By implementing strategic budgeting strategies and embracing a frugal lifestyle, you can navigate the financial aspects of your overseas education with confidence and ease. From securing scholarships and affordable housing to maximizing free or low-cost activities, every aspect of your budget plays a crucial role in shaping your study abroad experience. With careful planning, resourcefulness, and a positive mindset, you can make the most of your time in Germany while staying within your financial means.

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engineering-in-germany · 2 months

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Affordable Accommodation in Germany for Indian students

Moving to Germany for studies is an exciting venture, but finding affordable accommodation can be a daunting task, especially for Indian students. In this guide, we'll explore various housing options, budgeting tips, and resources to help you secure comfortable and economical living arrangements during your stay in Germany.For More Info Visit: Accommodation in Germany for Indian students Types of Accommodation:Student Dormitories (Studentenwohnheim): Student dormitories are a popular choice among international students due to their affordability and convenience. These facilities offer furnished rooms with shared amenities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas. While availability may vary, applying through your university's student services or online portals like Studierendenwerk can help you secure a spot.

Shared Apartments (WG or Wohngemeinschaft): Sharing an apartment with roommates is another cost-effective option. By splitting rent and utilities, you can significantly reduce your housing expenses. Websites like WG-Gesucht and Facebook groups dedicated to housing listings are valuable resources for finding shared accommodation opportunities.

Private Rentals: Renting a private apartment or studio offers more autonomy but may come at a higher cost. Consider exploring rental listings on websites like ImmobilienScout24 and eBay Kleinanzeigen to find affordable options within your budget.

Budgeting Tips:Set a Budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend on accommodation each month, taking into account other expenses such as tuition fees, utilities, and groceries.

Consider Location: Opting for accommodations in smaller towns or suburbs can be more budget-friendly compared to major cities like Berlin or Munich.

Utilities Included: Look for rental listings that include utilities like water, electricity, and internet in the monthly rent to avoid unexpected expenses.

Cultural Considerations:Understanding Rental Contracts: Familiarize yourself with German rental regulations and lease agreements to ensure transparency and avoid any misunderstandings with landlords.

Respect House Rules: Be mindful of cultural norms and etiquettes, such as noise levels and cleanliness, to maintain harmonious relationships with your roommates or neighbors.

For More Info Visit: Study in Germany for Indian Students

Conclusion:Finding affordable accommodation in Germany as an Indian student is indeed possible with careful planning and research. By exploring various housing options, setting a budget, and embracing cultural differences, you can secure a comfortable living space that enhances your study abroad experience. Remember to leverage online resources, seek advice from university housing services, and engage with local communities to navigate the housing market effectively. With the right approach, you'll soon settle into your new home away from home in Germany.

#Accommodation in Germany for Indian students

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studies-germany · 7 months

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Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students: Budgeting Tips and Tricks

Study in Germany offers Indian students an enriching educational experience, but managing finances effectively is essential to ensure a comfortable stay. In this blog, we'll explore the cost of living in Germany for Indian students and provide valuable budgeting tips and tricks to help you make the most of your time in this diverse and dynamic country.

Understanding the Cost of Living

The cost of living in Germany can vary depending on factors such as your location, lifestyle, and personal choices. To budget effectively, consider the following key components:

Accommodation: Rental costs are a significant expense. Prices differ widely across cities, with metropolitan areas generally being more expensive. Options include university dormitories, shared apartments (WG), or private rentals. Research and choose accommodation that fits your budget.

Food: Cooking at home is a cost-effective choice. German grocery stores offer a variety of affordable options. Discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl provide quality products at lower prices than some premium supermarkets.

Transportation: Germany's public transportation system is efficient and well-connected. Depending on your location, you might need a monthly transportation pass or card. Many cities offer discounted rates for students.

Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. The cost depends on your age and the specific coverage you choose.

Miscellaneous Expenses: This category includes study materials, leisure activities, personal care items, and unforeseen expenses. Allocate a monthly allowance for these expenses.

Budgeting Tips and Tricks

Now that you understand the components of the cost of living, let's explore practical budgeting tips and tricks:

Create a Budget: Start by creating a monthly budget that outlines your expected income and expenses. This will provide clarity and help you stay on track financially.

Cook at Home: Preparing your meals at home not only saves money but also allows you to explore German cuisine and ingredients. Cooking can be a fun and budget-friendly experience.

Utilize Student Discounts: Make the most of student discounts for public transportation, cultural events, restaurants, and more. Keep your student ID handy to access these savings.

Part-Time Work: As an Indian student in Germany, you're allowed to work part-time (usually up to 20 hours per week). Seek part-time job opportunities to supplement your income and gain valuable experience.

Open a German Bank Account: Opening a local bank account can help you save on Indiantransaction fees and make it easier to manage your finances in Germany.

Explore Second-Hand Options: Germany has a thriving second-hand market. Consider buying used textbooks, furniture, and other items to save money.

Plan Ahead for Travel: If you plan to travel within Germany or to neighboring countries, book tickets and accommodations in advance to secure better deals and avoid last-minute expenses.

Monitor Your Expenses: Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track your expenses meticulously. This practice will help you identify areas where you can cut costs.

Emergency Fund: Set aside a small amount each month as an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses or emergencies.

Seek Financial Advice: Don't hesitate to seek financial advice from your university's Indianoffice or local banks. They can offer guidance on managing your finances effectively during your stay in Germany.

For More Info Visit: study Abroad consultant In Delhi

By implementing these budgeting tips and tricks, you can strike a balance between managing your finances and enjoying your student life in Germany to the fullest. With prudent financial planning, your bachelors in Germany can be both enriching and financially manageable.

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