#Best energy drink in India

[priyankap0018]

Energizing the Future with the Ultimate Energy Drink Experience

Discover the ultimate boost with the best energy drink in India, a powerhouse of vitality and refreshment. Packed with invigorating ingredients, this beverage redefines energy, keeping you alert and active throughout the day. Elevate your experience with the unrivaled taste and revitalizing effects of the top energy drink in India.

[growvitanutrition10]

Best Malt based drinks | Nuitrition | Health benefit for kids

A chocolate malt beverage has become popular, particularly with kids. It is well known that children prefer this beverage for breakfast. In addition to its well-liked chocolate flavour, malt beverages have long been offered to children by parents as an easy and quick source of energy. To learn or engage in physical activities, children require mental and physical stamina. Like coffee and tea, one benefit of malt drinks is that they can provide your kids with a boost of energy to get through the day.

[bestandquick786]

Buy 100% Authentic Vitamin & Health Supplement Store Online with delicious taste. Whey Protein, BCAA's Workout Formula, Free & Fast Shipping All India.

Fitnutrish is a platform designed for people who need to stay fit that means it is the platform for ALL OF YOU up there. The idea of Fitnutrish is motivated through the mentality of Fitness Seekers who want to stay fit and at the same time from the Indian mentality to eat the mouth-watering tasty foods. You may be a teenager with no health issues or a diabetic with lot of health issues – Fitnutrish is the place where you can let your cravings go crazy as the products are made up with hand-picked materials without any harmful preservatives.

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[foodresearchlab]

 By working directly with Guires beverage expertise, you’re assured of getting innovative beverages such as bottled infused water, nutritional beverages, soft drinks, energy drink with low calories and low sugar, milk-based beverages, plant-based drinks, coffee and tea-based products. 

Contact us :

[boltnutrition]

ULTIMATE BCAA 5000 (2:1:1) (300G/0.66LB) | BOLT NUTRITION

Ultimate BCCA 5000 is specially crafted for fast recovery of muscle and maximizing training potential. It contains three essential amino acids: L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine. These amino acids promote protein synthesis, preventing muscle breakdown and allowing for faster muscle recovery. Furthermore, BCAAs are proven fat burners that aid in the development of lean muscle mass. One of the most commonly used supplements, Branched Chain Amino Acids is easy to consume and provides your body with the fuel it needs to function at its optimal level.

[eatmangoesnekkid]

I read something that said "the best role Norma Jean ever played was herself as Marilyn Monroe." Study Marilyn Monroe. She was a masterful manifestor who created through her own self-created "archetype/character" Marilyn Monroe. She lived from her subtle body, and held a lot of heart/passion through it all. She became her. People never perceived how highly intelligent Marilyn Monroe Norma Jean really was underneath her charisma and playfulness. Known for reading philosophy books, she taught herself her own expanded capacity for magic, magnetism, and pure light i.e. a healing presence. She demonstrated how to use feminine energy in a stunning way, however, what she also modeled was how the feminine needs to have a harmonious level of masculine energy or it becomes destructive. The lover is also the warrior, as I like to say. When you consciously curate use of your masculine energy without centering it, but positioning it in tandem with your feminine energy, available in ranges as needed, no one can fuck with you and you keep yourself from being trampled on by the world. Too much unconscious masculine energy, however, creates fibroids and other issues in the female creative centers. When a feminine woman has integrated harmonious masculine energy, she won't be getting paid less than her co-workers or colleagues or have to worry about any other inequality issues or some fool slipping molly into her drink, always 10 steps ahead of any potential harm or opposition. Her masculine energy protects her like a God and her feminine energy nourishes her like the law of attraction. -India Ame'ye, Author

Opening to "The lover is Also the Warrior" From The Melody of Love

[sixlane]

so sweet

Bartylily microfic | 1.4k words | NSFW

for india @certifiedl0verboy because they said the world needed barty and lily getting high and sharing a costco cheesecake, and also han @honeybcj because the image of barty and lily shotgunning hasn't left my head in days <33

Lily opens her fridge and stares. The cool air and soft light leaks out into the empty kitchen as she contemplates how she became this person. The type who, completely unprompted and for no good reason, buys a whole Costco cheesecake for herself. 

The soft, round monstrosity sits on the bottom shelf of her fridge, taking up so much space she was forced to shove her yogurt into the vegetable drawer. The thing stares back at her, mocking, taunting, begging to be left to mold when she inevitably fails to eat it all. 

The sound of a key in the door snaps her out of the silent stand off.

Fuck, Barty’s home.

She can already imagine his confused smile and snarky comments when he opens the fridge for his nightly Red Bull just to come face to face with Lily’s unexplainable decision. It’s not like they’ve been roommates for long, or friends for that matter. They keep it cordial, stay out of each other's way, smoke the occasional bowl and watch old seasons of America’s Next Top Model, but this seems a little too close to soul-baring for comfort. 

Lily sits down at the table with a glass of water, tries to act casual, tries not to look at the fridge. 

“Hey,” Barty says, dropping his keys on the counter.

Lily nods her head, taking a sip from her glass. For a minute she thinks she’s in the clear because he’s already started to leave the room, but he doubles back at the last minute, realizing he’s forgotten something. 

He pulls the fridge open, reaches down, and stops, just for a second, before grabbing his energy drink and letting the door fall shut. 

Lily pretends she hasn’t been watching him this whole time.

He pops the top on his can, takes a sip and gives Lily a once over. “You having a party or something?”

“Will you leave me alone if I say yes?” Lily deadpans, though she can feel her face heating up. 

“Nope. Then I’d probably have to ask why I wasn’t invited.” He walks over to lean against the island, just a few feet between them, and looks down at her. He takes another sip.

“Ok look I needed more laundry detergent so I went to Costco and obviously I had to look in the bakery section and it was just sitting there. So. I bought it.” Barty’s smile widens as she explains until he’s just grinning at her. “What?” she asks, defensive.

“So you just bought the whole thing for yourself?” He says it curiously. He’s not judging, but she can hear the ulterior motive in his tone. 

She raises an eyebrow at him. “Spit it out.”

Barty huffs a laugh. “One second.” He sets his drink down and heads toward his room, leaving Lily to wonder what his plans are. She can never quite read him. He likes to play up this persona of his, effortlessly carefree and nonchalant, but she has always sensed something just below the surface. She notices it in the way he remembers her work schedule, the way he seems to have eyes in the back of his head. 

When Barty comes back, he’s got a bag of weed in one hand and his grinder and bowl in the other. He holds them up, mouth quirked in a dangerous way, waiting for her response.

Lily reflects the smile back at him. “I like the way you think, Crouch.”

So, Lily grabs the cheesecake, two forks, and some napkins, while Barty packs the first bowl of the night. They light up next to an open window in the living room, inhaling as the warm breeze kisses their cheeks and slides through their hair.

They wait until they’re properly high before digging in, and as Lily brings that first bite to her lips, allows it to settle on her tongue, she swears it’s the best thing she’s ever tasted. 

“Fuuuuuck,” she moans. “This was the best decision I’ve ever made.” She licks the back of the fork, wanting to savor the tangy goodness, and she doesn’t miss how Barty watches before he huffs a laugh and shifts his focus to take a bite of his own.

“God,” he says around a mouthful. “What does Costco put in this shit?” 

“It’s fucking amazing right?” 

It’s at that point that she notices a bit of cake smeared across Barty’s lower lip, so she leans over and wipes her thumb across it. It happens before she can even register she’s done it, but she fully commits, sticking her thumb in her mouth after, tasting sweet and something else.

“You use Aquaphor?” She asks.

Barty stares at her. Red eyes slightly widened. “You can identify Aquaphor by taste?”

Lily smiles with all her teeth and reaches into her back pocket to produce the tube she takes with her everywhere. 

“Put some on,” he says before picking up the bowl for another hit.

She looks at him suspiciously. “Why?”

“Just do it.” He sparks the lighter and breathes in deeply. 

She brings the tube to her lips and smears some on, watching his chest expand behind his t-shirt.

He holds the smoke in his lungs but motions for her to come closer and oh. She sees where this is going. 

The realization doesn’t stop her from leaning in anyway.

Barty’s lips ghost over hers and he breathes the smoke into her open mouth. She inhales in turn, taking the air from his lungs into her own. 

It’s intimate, she thinks, in a way that not many things are. To hold a vital piece of someone else inside yourself. To pass it back and forth with such care, not letting anything slip through the cracks. 

And that thought is what causes Lily to close the barely-there distance. To allow their lips to push together. To allow herself to fully taste the leftover sweetness and Aquaphor and Red Bull on Barty’s tongue, which he doesn’t waste a minute before sliding into her mouth.

It’s sloppy and uncoordinated where they lean over the half-eaten cheesecake between them, and Lily pulls back before her arms give out underneath her. 

They stare at each other for a moment, both smiling and laughing like idiots. 

It’s so easy between them, always has been.

“One more?” Barty asks.

“One more what?” Lily volleys back, eyebrow raised.

“Bite,” He says motioning toward the cake, sly smile across his face.

She rolls her eyes affectionately but nods, leans forward as he scoops another piece, sure to get some of the buttery crust on his fork. He holds it out for her to take but before she can, the pile of cake and graham cracker falls right onto her left tit.

Lily stares down at it, mouth agape for a second before she starts giggling again. Because it’s funny. Everything is so funny she can’t help herself.

That is until Barty’s tongue is dragging itself along the skin there, collecting the cake and making way for his teeth, which bite hard enough to leave a mark. 

He stares up at her as he does it, gauging her reaction. He gets the all clear when Lily fails to stop the needy whine that leaves her throat.

Barty trails his mouth upward, leaving open-mouth kisses along her neck until he reaches her ear.

“You taste so good,” he whispers. Voicing out loud the thoughts she’s been having all night.

Lily lets the corner of her mouth tug up. “You have no idea.”

“Fuck.” He reattaches to her neck and his hands find the button of her pants, dexterous as they undo it and work the zipper down. He reaches beneath her underwear, letting his long fingers slide through her wetness, collecting some before he brings them to his mouth, sucks sinfully and stares her down the whole time.

The haze around Lily’s thoughts sharpens to want, and Barty must see the change in her eyes because he smiles devilishly around the digits before replacing them where she needs them most. 

“So fuckin’ sweet,” he says, circling her clit lazily, not enough pressure to really get her there.

“Please…” she begs, arching into him, trying to push harder against his fingers. She’s too far gone not to act as desperate for it as she is. She wants his fingers inside of her, wants him to lick every inch of her, put his mouth in places it probably doesn’t belong.

“Shhh princess,” he coos. “Just enjoy the ride.”

Once they finish, Lily twice and Barty all over her stomach before licking her clean, Lily will realize they left the cheesecake in the living room under the open window.

Oh well, she was never really going to finish it anyway.

[tiredwitchplant]

Everything You Need to Know About Crystals: Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli (The Sacred Stone of Wisdom and Power)

Color:  Deep blue flecked with gold

Rarity: Easy to obtain, can be expensive for high quality

Hardiness: 5.5

Type: Isometric/ Metamorphic

Chakra Association: Throat, Brow, Crown

Angels: Sahaqiel

Deities: Nuit, Venus, Isis, Sin

Astrological Signs: Sagittarius, Capricorn

Element: Water, Air

Planet: Venus

Origin: Afghanistan, India, Myanmar, Pakistan, Russia, USA, Italy, Egypt, Middle East, Chile

Powers: Amplification of Power, Reverse Baneful Magic, Connection to the Spirit World, Protection, Wisdom, Mental and Spiritual Blockage

Crystals It Works Well With: Phantom quartz and Purple Tourmaline

How It is Created: Lapis lazuli is a complex mineral made up of lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. The lazurite gives it its deep blue color (along with the sulfur that’s in its matrix), the pyrite gives it its golden veins, and the calcite gives it its white specks.

History: The name comes from the Latin word lapis, meaning stone, and the word lazuli which means blue. It was first mined in Afghanistan but it has existed even before then. The Egyptians used lapis lazuli in protective amulets and other jewelry. It was used famously by Egyptian nobility, even its powdered form being used as eyeshadow. Lapis lazuli is said to produce power and wisdom and is associated with the Egyptian goddesses, Isis and Nuit. Romans would ingest the powder in food and drinks as an aphrodisiac and it was also used as an antidote for poisons. It is said that the ring the angel gave King Solomon to control his demon legion of workers was made of lapis lazuli.

What It Can Do:

Open the third eye and balance the throat chakra

Stimulates enlightenment and enhances dream work and psychic abilities

Facilitates spiritual journeys and stimulates personal and spiritual power

Releases stress, bringing deep peace

Protective stone that contacts spirit guardians

Recognizes psychic attacks, blocks them, and return the energy back to the source

Teaches the power of the spoken word and can reverse curses

Alleviates pain, especially with migraines

Overcomes depression, benefits the respiratory and nervous systems, cleanse organs and the immune system

Harmonizes the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels such as: lack of purpose, disease, and depression

Encourages taking charge in your life

Can amplify powerful thoughts and stimulate higher faculties of one’s mind

Bonds relationships in love, friendship and aid in expressing feelings

How to Get the Best Out Of: With a lot of these visionary stones, I am always going to recommend a bracelet or necklace. Anything that is close to the bloodstream or heart will help the power of the stone connect to you best with these types of stones.

How to Cleanse and Charge: Using incenses or a singing bowl to cleanse lapis lazuli. Lay it on a clear quartz disc or bowl over night under the moon to recharge it. Do not put under the sunlight. It will discolor the stone. (I made this mistake and was heavily scolded by Isis afterwards)

Crystal Grid:

Healthy Body (Sacred Geometry: Metatron’s Cube or Sri Yantra)

Mantra “I trust my body’s ability to heal itself”

Center stone: Quartz sphere

Secondary Stones: Bloodstone, Carnelian, Amethyst, Lapis Lazuli, Quartz

Moon Phase: Dark Moon

Day: Saturday

Sources

[sanaxo-o]

Assign your moots bollywood songs and why?

Stop I love this so much 🥺😭. I haven’t been listening to Bollywood music much nowadays so this is totally on my old knowledge since idk any new songs.

@sohnric : Hey Ya! From the movie Karthik calling Karthik

This is totally because bar just genuinely radiates the kind of energy where you stop whatever you’re doing and just stare at her once she walks in the room.

@from-izzy : Haule Haule From the movie Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

Hmm so basically to sum it up Izz is someone who will make you feel comfortable in an instant even when you just started talking with her. That’s just how she is tbh and I love the vibes of this song so much 🥺

Bonus I assign Chammak Challo from the movie Ra.One to @from-izzy because I can and I will 🥰🫶🏻

@kimsohn : What Jhumka? From the movie Rocky aur Rani Kii prem kahani

I think this is self explanatory. Shru and me had talked about pretty jhumkas and what not when it comes to Indian culture. I totally think of Shru when I listen to What Jhumka now 🥺.

@winterchimez : Love You Zindagi from the movie Dear Zindagi

At first I was planning on giving Cham Cham to Als but then when I remembered the song love you zindagi I knew it was for ally because to be fair 1. She was one of the first moots I got close with 2. Girlie is still thriving despite everything 🥺🫂

@cloverdaisies : Saturday Saturday from the movie Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania

Plz don’t judge this song yall ☹️. This is like the song you will hear at a dance party in India and clo fits this so well 🥺. Like yes girl go and get your drinks after the tough week 😭. (I was gonna give Party all night but I don’t want clo to get mad at me 🥰)

@strayed-quokka : Garmi from the movie street dancer 3D

Hmm I will say it. Lenlen makes me blush all the time hence this song so yes but lemme remember more oh yes! Subha Hone Na De because I just know if me and lenlen meet we would stay up all night just talking, eating, dancing and what not 🥰.

@astrae4 : Ratta Maar from the movie Student of the year

Poor baby has back to back exams nowadays hence this song 🥺😭. All the best non 🫶🏻 but if not that song then Tum Se Hi from Jab We Met because she just meets these vibes so well ☹️🥺. Literally one of my favourite movies and songs <3

@o-onikix : Paisa from the movie De Dana Dan

Hmm 🥰 because this girl is always in some need of money (us girl us) but like Nara is the depiction of Ye Ishq hai from Jab We Met so yes that song too because coughs 🥰 but also Badtamerz Dil because YJHD is her favourite movie and it’d be a crime if I don’t assign any song from that movie

@quaissants : One Two Three Four (Get On the dance floor) from the movie Chennai Express

Because I can and I will, as in the movie the actor (SRK) is drunk and Mona is drunk without drinking anything most of the time so yes. Other than this song I assign Kashmir Main Tu Kanyakumari simply because i think it fits Mona.

@itsbeeble : Senorita from the movie Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Sooraj Dooba Hain from the movie Roy

It’s always chaos with Reese 🥰 and because she is always awake and is pretty much busy with everything most of the times so she needs these type of things in her life.

@hcuyk : Uff Teri Adaa from the movie Karthik calling Karthik

Have been a huge fan of her since I read Kidult and if I say that this is the biggest compliment I could give as an Indian then? Because the way we all scream to these lyrics when it plays and also she is so these lyrics 😭 (btw plz let me know what emoji you want 🥺😭)

@stealanity : Param Sundari from the movie Mimi

Marty is soooo these lyrics 🥺. Like yes guys she is my param sundari 😍. I don’t have much to say but yes 👏

@juyeonszn : High Heels ke Nachche from the movie Ki and Ka

Omg tbh I don’t know why I chose this song but Dawn is so this song. Idk why but yes.

I think that’s all 😭. Plz let me know if you want a part two with the rest of my moots because I used all my brain juice for this one.

[moonastrogirl]

2023 Update full moon in Cancer all signs + how to manifest through it

This full moon is about letting go and releasing any negative pattern in yourself (Sun/Moon/Rising) or in the specific area (Mars/Venus/Mercury).

It’s all about forgiving and letting go.

Cancer placements have a hard time forgetting because of their elephant memory. Y’all remember the terrible elephant attack story in India ? That elephant remembered everything the old lady did, the place it happened and went for revenge even during her funeral. That elephant was a cancer forsho 💀

And forgiving : the pain can take years to heal. So yeah sh*t is hard ngl. Y’all we gotta let go of revenge and negative feelings thorough anyone this time, it’s for our own good.

Tho it's a new beginning and I am willing to make it happen for myself. And loving myself unconditionally in the process. Are you willing to do it too ?

This full moon is making an aspect with chiron and uranus so it's all about radical self love for all my cancers placements. Same goes for cardinal signs: Aries, Capricorn and Libra.

For the others signs, it will also be about radical self love without the emotional part. Lucky all mutable and fixed signs y'all have it good this time.

Finally it’s still an amazing energy to manifest and start something new so do it ! Whatever was on your mind, my fellow cancers placements, just do it !

How to manifest with this full moon ?

This method works for any full moon, just take into account the element, the modality and the sign the full moon is in.

- Using water because the element of cancer is water.

- Writing your affirmations based on your placements on a bottle of water and drinking the water during the full moon.

- Taking a bath or a shower saying your affirmations + visualisation with emotions (already feeling how what you want will make you feel).

- Cancer controls deep emotions and water as the 1st water sign also it's a cardinal sign so take immediate action afterwards.

-> The more action oriented you will be the faster your manifestions will happen.

- Best time to do any manifestation ritual: midnight during the night of the full moon because it's the hour of the full moon.

For instance : Cancer rising

- Full moon transiting your 1st house of self/appearances/looks/beginnings/ body/1st impressions/attitude/identity/approach to life

- Basically : let go of any limiting beliefs, bad habits related to your 1st house manners

- Start something new based on the themes of your 1st house will be great too

- Wanna change your hairstyle ? Your look ? Start working out ? JUST FK DO IT!

- You have any negative outlook on your identity ? Love yourself more ! Practice radical love ! Write down self love affirmations, study them and say them out loud while taking a bath, drinking water, taking a shower or watching yourself in the mirror.

- You have a negative self limiting belief on your approach to life ? Acknowledge it, be aware and let it go ! It’s all about the mindset.

If you want to reblog my post put some hashtags please it will help to boost it thanks 🫶

[leap-store]

Hydration Drinks and Energy Supplements: Fueling Your Mindful Eating Journey

In the fast-paced world we live in, maintaining a mindful approach to eating can sometimes be challenging. However, incorporating hydration drinks, energy supplements, and other nutritional aids can complement your mindful eating journey, ensuring you stay nourished and energized throughout the day. Here's how you can integrate these elements into your routine:

Hydration Drinks for Present Moment Awareness: Just as mindful eating encourages being fully present while consuming food, staying hydrated promotes overall awareness and well-being. Opt for hydration drinks that are low in sugar and additives, keeping you refreshed without unnecessary calories. Look for electrolyte-enhanced options to replenish essential minerals lost during daily activities.

Energy Supplements for Non-Judgmental Observation: Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may find ourselves needing an energy boost. Choose energy supplements made from natural ingredients, avoiding artificial stimulants that can disrupt your mindful eating practice. These supplements can provide a gentle lift without interfering with your non-judgmental attitude towards food.

Instant Energy Drinks for Recognizing Hunger and Fullness: When you're on the go and feeling a dip in energy levels, instant energy drinks can come to the rescue. Select options that offer a quick source of energy without causing spikes and crashes. By tuning into your body's hunger and fullness cues, you can use these drinks judiciously to support your nutritional needs without overindulging.

Best Energy Drink in India: Choosing Wisely for Mindful Eating: In a market flooded with energy drink options, it's essential to select the best one that aligns with your mindful eating goals. Look for products that prioritize natural ingredients, sustainable sourcing practices, and transparent labeling. By making informed choices, you can ensure that your energy drink complements your mindful approach to nourishment.

Sports Nutrition Gels for Mindful Portioning: For athletes or individuals engaged in rigorous physical activities, sports nutrition gels can provide a convenient source of energy. However, it's crucial to consume them mindfully, paying attention to portion sizes and timing. Use sports nutrition gels sparingly and in conjunction with whole foods to maintain a balanced approach to fueling your body.

As you embark on your journey towards mindful eating, remember that hydration drinks, energy supplements, and other nutritional aids are meant to support, not replace, your wholesome food choices. By integrating these products mindfully and consciously into your routine, you can enhance your overall well-being and derive greater satisfaction from every nourishing moment.

[the-scouts-codex]

Summary: “A Housewarden meeting?” Renmu repeats. “Yes, a Housewarden meeting. Normally Housewardens are elected by previous Housewardens and or by challenging one for the position.” The Headmage explained, “Since Ramshackle is still considered a dorm, and You and Grim have taken residence in it, this makes you Housewarden of Ramshackle. Therefore, you now attend Housewarden meetings.”

Scout's Notes: This fic is 11,333 words. Yes, that is a lot of words lol. So I will be posting my work in parts. This is part 3. This fic is also found on A03 here. Thescoutscodex

Part one can be found here. Part 2 is here.

An assortment of food was offered to the table. Foreign dishes were served along with seafood and sweets. The food looked amazing. Everyone took from the shared platters. 

“You can thank Jamil, and Trey for the food and sweets.” Jade said happily. 

“Yeah thanks to them I didn’t have to do it.” Floyd said happily. 

“Thanks for the food.” Renmu said softly. 

“You’re quite welcome.” Trey said with a cunning smile. 

“Jamil’s cooking is always the best!” Kalim laughed loudly. 

“Now, I know some of us have already done so, but we must introduce ourselves.” Azul announced. “Please include titles.”

Leona and Idia groaned. “Leona Kingscholar. Housewarden of Savanaclaw.” Leona growled. 

“Ruggie Bucchie.” Ruggie said lazily. “Not a Vice but Leona’s right hand man.”

“Riddle Rosehearts, Housewarden of Heartslabyul.” Riddle said proudly.

“Trey Clover, Vice Housewarden of Heartslabyul.” Trey said, tipping his fedora.

“Cater Diamond, Trey’s right hand man.” Cate said with a wink.

Trey shook his head and laughed. Next was Azul. “Azul Ashengrotto, Housewarden of Octavinelle and Proud owner of Mostro Lounge”

“Jade Leach, Vice Housewarden of Octavinelle.” Jade said smiling.

Floyd sighed. “Floyd Leach. I’m his muscle I guess.” 

Renmu was confused. “What do you mean by muscle?”

Floyd, Jade and Azul smirked. “Let’s hope you are never on the receiving end of a beached contract. You will find out why he’s my muscle.” Azul explained. 

Renmu’s mouth went dry. He could put two and two together. Jamil took a sip of his drink before speaking.

“Jamil Viper, Vice Housewarden of Scarabia.”

Kalim stood up excitedly. “Yaay, my turn. I’m Kalim Al-Asim, Housewarden of Scarabia!” 

Renmu smiled. He was adorable. “Ah, I guess it’s my turn.” Renmu said nervously. “Yuu Renmu desu…A-Ah, I mean, I’m Renmu Yuu. The new Housewarden of Ramshackle.”

Lilia hummed in thought. “Which one is your surname? You introduced yourself to me earlier with Yuu first.”

“Oh, where I come from, we introduce ourselves with our surname first, not our given name.” Renmu explained, “Yuu is my surname, Renmu is my given name.” 

“Oh, so like military rules. I would love to learn more about your home when the time comes.” Lilia said.

“As would I.” Riddle announced. 

It made Renmu happy that they already wanted to know more about him. 

“Keep the line going!” Floyd yelled. 

Lilia chuckled. “Lilia Vanrouge, Vice Housewarden of Diasomnia.” 

“Malleus Draconia, Housewarden of Diasomnia.” Malleus said.

Vil stood and bowed. “Vil Schoenheit, Housewarden of Pomefiore.” 

Rook then stood. Leona, India, and Ruggie groaned. “You know he’s gonna do it…” Idia mumbled. 

“I, Le Chasseur d’Amour, Rook Hunt, am the Vice Housewarden of the dorm of beauty, Pomefiore. As well as Vil’s faithful companion.” 

Renmu laughed. He loved his energy. “I love the title.” 

Rook smiled fondly. “Merci, Amour.” 

“Don’t encourage him!” Ruggie whined. 

Lastly was the poor Idia at the end of the circle. Idia sighed. “Idia Shroud. Unfortunately, I am the Housewarden of Ignihyde…” 

Riddle scowled. “You should take more pride in your status as Housewarden.” 

“Don’t wanna…” Idia whined, sitting back down.

Renmu wondered why he didn't like being Housewarden. Couldn’t he just quit? Azul clapped his hands together, getting everyone's attention. “Now that introductions are done, let us enjoy ourselves.” 

They went back to their food, casually talking amongst themselves. Idia didn’t say a word. Renmu could definitely relate.

“Renmu, what’s your favorite food?” Lilia asked to start a conversation.

Renmu looked over to Lilia. “Ramen.” 

“Eh, seriously!? Mine too. We're like Twinsies” Cater squealed. 

Multiple people groaned. “Who says twinsies!?” Ruggie asked, annoyed. 

“All the trendy dudes and dudettes do.” Cater replied smiling. 

“Sounds so lame.” Idia mumbled. 

“Boo so mean.” Cater whined.

“I’m surprised you have Ramen here.” Renmu said, surprised. “It’s my country's native food.” 

“Totes cool.” Cater commented. 

 “What are your hobbies, Renmu?” Lilia asked again.

“Mmm. art, cleaning, fixing things, playing music, dancing, reading, learning, playing logic based games and or video games and sleeping.” Renmu listed. 

“Sleeping isn’t a hobby, Renmu.” Riddle said disappointedly.

“Sounds like a hobby to me…” Leona mumbled.

“You like art?” Rook asked happily. 

Renmu nodded. “I like to paint and photography.” 

“Quelle Beauté!” Rook cried. 

“Such diligent and beautiful hobbies you have. Beauty comes from within as well as it does on the outside.” Vil said smiling. 

“There he goes, spouting nonsense. Do you play chess at least?” Leona asked. Renmu nodded. 

“Hmm, maybe I should play with you to see what you got.” Leona said with a confidant smirk. 

“RPGs are better. You have to multitask in those.” Idia chimed in.

“To be honest, my peoples RPGs feature people that use magic. In my world, magic is something part of a fantasy.” 

“So weird.” Idia mumbled.

“Does sound a bit strange.” Trey commented. 

“That’s good and all but he says he dances.” Jamil repeated. 

“Jamil loves to dance Renmu. He can’t resist.” Kalim chirped happily. Jamil rolled his eyes.

“I mean, It’s nothing special. I'm sure the dances my people do would be very weird to you.” 

“Oh oh, do it.” Kalim shouted. 

Renmu shuddered. “I-I could never dance in front of people. That’s just as bad as asking me to sing.” 

“You sing too?” Cater asked. 

Renmu nodded once more. 

“Aww, I would totes love to hear you sing.” 

“As would I.” Lilia chuckled. “I’m not that bad either.” 

“Not that bad?” Idia questioned. 

“You sang trash metal at the pop culture concert last year. It sounded like screeching.” Cater said with a shudder. 

“Trash Metal? You mean like Heavy metal?” Renmu asked. 

“Heavy metal?’ Lilia asked. 

“Where I come from, heavy metal is intense rock music with screaming.” 

“Yes, exactly like that. Do you like that type of music?” Lilia asked. 

“Yeah I do.” Renmu replied.

“Where do you come from, Son of man?’ Malleus asked. 

“I come from a country called Japan. It doesn’t exist here though.” 

“How unfortunate.” Rook said sadly. 

“Does your county have its own language? You said something earlier that I did not understand.” Malleus asked. 

“Yes. It’s called Japanese.” 

“Ooh, Say something in your native tongue for us, dear?” Lilia asked. 

“Please?” Cater pleaded. 

Renmu sighed with a smile. “I guess saying something wouldn't hurt. Watashi wa Yuu Renmu desu. Yoroshiku  onegaishimasu.” 

They stared at Renmu in awe. “So pretty!” Cater squealed. 

“Quelle Beauté!” Rook cried.

“Nothing special. I just introduced myself.” Renmu explained.

“I really want to hear you sing in your native tongue!” Kalim said excitedly. 

“Maybe next time.” Renmu mumbled. 

“Lilia and I come from the Briar Valley. We are known for our expected magic abilities, though we don’t have a native language.” Malleus explained.

“Ah, what about everyone else?” Renmu asked.

“Trey and I are from the Queendom of Hearts.” Riddle replied.

“Many strange and unique animals there. It’s been said that the flowers once sang during the month of june.” Trey informed him.

“Now I'm curious.” Renmu said in awe. 

“I’m from the Shaftlands. Not much else.” Cater said awkwardly. 

“I’m also from the shaftlands.” Vil replied. “There are many biomes and districts with different cultures and ways of living. The one I'm from, we still often use its ancient language. 

Renmu nodded. “Very interesting. I hope to learn more about them.” 

“Jamil and I are from the Scalding sands.” Kalim added. “You should totally come visit. The food is amazing.” 

Renmu smiled. “I hope to one day.” 

“I’m sure you have realized that Jade, Floyd and I aren’t from here either?” Azul asked. 

“Take a guess, Shrimpy.” Floyd insisted. 

Renmu took a moment to think. He remembered Floyd saying he smelled like the sea. So maybe they were from a place that was next to the ocean? “Maybe somewhere on the coats? Or a place that’s next to the sea?” Renmu asked. 

Floyd made a buzzer noise. “Wrong!”

“We are literally from the sea.” Jade said with a smile. 

“Eh, you mean you live in the water?” Renmu asked, surprised. 

“Yes.” Azul replied. “We are from the Coral sea. Maybe we could show you one day.” 

Renmu deflated. “I-I can’t swim…” 

Jade chuckled. “You won’t need to know how to swim. You have potions that will allow you to breathe underwater.” 

The idea of a potion that allowed people to breath under water was truly amazing. He would be afraid to try it though. 

“Leona and I are from the Sunset Savannah. Most beastmen are from there.”  Ruggie explained. 

“Unfortunately, Rook is from there too…” Leona mumbled. 

“Oh, Roi du Lion, you wounded me. I love being within reach of any quarry. The Sunset Savannah has made me into an excellent hunter. Best of all, I get to observe such potential prey all day.” Rook said with a bone chilling smirk

Renmu could see Ruggie shiver. 

“You're a freak pervert who stalks people.” Leona spat. 

Rook frowned. “I am no such thing. I’m a hunter, Le Chasseur d’Amour.” 

“Leona, please, no fighting.” Riddle said with a sigh. Leona clicked his teeth in annoyance. 

“You knowing where I'm from isn’t important…” Idia mumbled. Renmu nodded. He would respect Idia’s choice not to say.

“This is off topic but, why do I smell Tomatoes and Briar Roses.” Lilia asked, sniffing the air. 

“Tomatoes?” Leona asked in disbelief. 

“It’s Renmu.” Cater teased, wiggling his eyebrows. 

Renmu groaned. “I didn’t know the cologne was enchanted. Nor did I know that it was meant to allure people.” 

Lilia nuzzled his face into Renmu’s neck. Renmu spazzed and strangled out a gargled noise.The table erupted in laughter. Renmu flushed as red as Riddle's hair. 

“What kind of noise was that!?” Ruggie asked. 

“Sounded like his soul left his body.” Leona chuckled. 

“It did!” Renmu shouted, trying to push Lilia away. 

“Aww but you smell good.” He whined, pulling Renmu to him. 

“Now he smells like cinnamon and paprika!” Kalim said, sniffing the other side of Renmu. 

“Aww, I wanna smell him too.” Floyd whined. 

“As do I.” Trey agreed. Renmu sputtered like a fish. 

“Kalim, off of him.” Jamil said over a mouthful of curry. 

“That’s it, we are switching spots. I want to smell shrimpy!” Floyd demanded. “You guys can’t hog him.” 

“No one is hogging him, Floyd.” Riddle reasoned. 

“Move down!” Cater and Trey sang. 

“H-Hey!” 

Once again they shuffled. Renmu was in between Floyd and Trey, actually, Floyd took it upon himself to hold Renmu. Jade was on the other side of them along with Azul. Cater was on the other side of Trey. Leona and Ruggie still haven’t moved. Idia preferred to be on the end next to the isle. Riddle was now next to Leona farther in. Jamil, Kalim, Rook and Vil were now on the other side of Ruggie. 

“Must we keep moving?” Vil asked. Vil looked even more beautiful now that he sat across from Renmu. His eyes were covered with smokey purple eyeshadow. His cheeks were powdered and tinted pink with rouge. His lips were covered in a dark purple lipstick.

“We actually do this during our tea parties. We move down until everyone has found a clean cup and an empty seat.” Riddle informed him. 

Vil hummed unamused.  Vil looked up from his drink to find Renmu staring at him. Renmu flushed and looked down. “I don’t mind your staring. It is quite welcomed.” Renmu flushed more to Vil’s amusement.

“The parties at Scarabia are fun. Lot’s of food, music and dancing!” Kalim said excitedly. “Renmu, come to our dorm for a party.” 

Renmu was caught off guard. He was actually being invited to a party. He was never invited to a party before. “A-Are you sure?” Renmu asked cautiously. 

“Absolutely. The more people, the merrier.” Kalim said smiling. 

Kalim was a ray of sunshine. His happiness was contagious and adorable. He was glad there was someone like him in this school. “Okay, I'll think about it.” 

“Yaay, Jamil, we should throw the party tomorrow!” 

Jamil coughed on his drink. “Kalim, I have told you before many times, You can’t just declare when you want a party. You have to plan it appropriately.” 

Azul chuckled. “Eagered as always.” “Renmu should come to Heartslabyul for a Unbirthday party. It would be totes fun.” Cater added. 

“If it’s not a violation to The Queen of Hearts Laws…” Renmu mumbled looking at Riddle. 

Riddle smiled fondly. “There is no rule against the Queen of Hearts from inviting others to an Unbirthday party.” 

“Sweet!” Cater cheered. 

“Ah, it's almost 9pm.” Riddle announced. 

“Queen of Hearts Law 96: Cake shall not be eaten after 9pm.” Trey recited. “I’ll bring out the cake.” Trey swiftly scooted out the booth and into the kitchen. Azul waved his staff and all empty plates stacked themselves onto a nearby table. All their glasses refilled themselves. Trey pushed the cake out and on a trolly. The cake was a white, black and blue frosted tiered cake. The tiers were out of order.  They looked as if they were balanced carefully. 

“The Black frosted cakes are Black Forest cake with strawberry and pomegranate filling. The Blue frosted is white cake with a date filling. The White frosted is Red Velvet with raspberry filling.” 

Everyone raised their staff and or magic pens. The cake began to cut itself and each piece floated over to each person. 

“Renmu, which one or ones would you like?” Trey asked. 

“Black and White, please.” 

Trey cut the two flavors for Renmu and passed it to him. 

Vil practically moaned. “Trey, this cake is delicious. So much for my diet.” 

Trey laughed. “I’m glad you like it. It seems black and white are very popular.” 

The tweels had blue and Black cake. Azul and Cater had blue. Riddle, Ruggie, Jamil, Idia, Trey, and Renmu had black and white. Kalim had all three to Jamil's dismay. Lilia and Leona had a slice of blue cake. Rook had Blue and white and Malleus had Black and blue. They all ate their cake with the prospect of savoring it. Except for Leona who practically inhaled it. Trey really was a good baker. 

“There is one more slice of Black and White. Who-”

“Me.” 

Vil, Malleus, Ruggie, Rook, Riddle, and Idia looked at one another. 

“Well, Trey can easily bake more for me.” Riddle said, crossing his arms. 

“If Roi du Poison wants it, he can have it.” Rook declared with passion. 

“I rather not fight for it.” Idia mumbled. 

“Not that big of a deal.” Leona slurred. 

Vil, Ruggie, Malleus were left. 

“You all know what that means.” Cater said smugly. 

“If that’s how we are settling for it, then I'll join.” Idia said. 

“I guess I will too.” Riddle chimed in.

Vil huffed. “If we must. Everyone, move down.” 

Everyone began to scoot down out of the booth. Renmu was confused. “Hmm, how do you all settle for it?” Renmu asked, as Floyd scooted them out.

“Musical chairs,” Floyd said, amused. 

5 chairs were placed into the middle of the room back to back. Vil, Idia, Riddle, Malleus, and Ruggie were standing around the chairs. 

“You guys play musical chairs for the last of something?” Renmu asked. 

“Oh yeah. I onced suggested that we “crawl” for it. That ended up with food everywhere, Riddle blowing a casket, and Leona trying to claw Malleus’s face off.” Cater said, chuckling. “So yeah, this is less dangerous.” 

“Last chance for those who want the cake!” Trey called. 

“Oh fine, I’ll join!” Lilia said, running down to the others. He tossed his coat to Renmu. Renmu took it and folded it neatly on his lap.

“Are you sure you don’t wanna do it?” Cater asked Renmu. 

Renmu just shrugged, holding onto Lilia’s coat. Trey added one more chair and stuck two on the outside and four in the center. “Alright, you all know the rules. No magic at all in this game. Just force.” Trey reminds them. 

“Also, anything that becomes damaged must be paid for.” Azul said happily. 

“Ready?” Jade asked, standing next to a music player. 

They all nodded and or said yes. Jade pushed the play button and the music started. They all began to walk around the chairs clockwise. Cater was recording them from the steps. They went round and round the chairs. Vil was holding his train to keep the others from stepping on it. Lilia was dancing behind Malleus who just walked normally. Jade pressed the stop button and they all sat down quickly. 

“Nice, now, let the real fun begin.” Trey declared, removing one of the chairs. 

Chaos began to unfold once Trey removed that chair. Idia didn’t make it to a chair in time. To be honest, Renmu didn’t think he really cared anymore. There were 4 chairs left now. The music started and they went around the chairs again. Lilia was still dancing around the chairs happily. Vil looked like he was on a catwalk. Riddle walked around with poise. Jade stopped the music abruptly. They rushed for a chair, pushing one another to sit in it. Vil practically hip bumped Ruggie out the chair. 

“Oi, No fair!” Ruggie growled. 

“Hah, you got bumped by that pompous Prima donna's butt!” Leona chuckled lazily. 

Vil gasped. “You say it as if I have a big butt!” 

“Your butt is as beautiful as you, Bella Vil!” Rook cried affectionately. 

Renmu burst out laughing. Wheezing and snorting. He almost sounded like a mule. He covered his mouth and covered his face as he laughed. Vil looked at Renmu in disgust. 

“His laugh is so cute!” Lilia chuckled. 

“It absolutely isn’t!” Vil argued. 

Ruggie walked back up to the stairs and sat next to Renmu. The music started again and they went around in circles. The sound of their heels echoed through the room. Vil started swaying his hips to the music. Renmu found it endearing. Jade stopped the music. They scrambled for seats quickly. Malleus and Vil secured their chairs. Riddle and Lilia fought over the other. Lilia and Riddle pushed and shoved one another for the chair. Heels scuffing and clicking on the floor. Both of their faces contorted into aggression and determination. Riddle went as far as to drag the chair with him. Ruggie howled in laughter. Lilia stole the chair back and dragged it back to his side. Both of them jumped onto the chair. Lilia was faster and Riddle flopped onto the floor.

‘YES!” Lilia cheered. 

Riddle huffed in annoyance as he got up and brushed himself off. Riddle walked back over to the rest of them. Trey discreetly brushed Riddle's butt off for him as he walked by. 

“You're cutting it close now.” Cater hollored. 

Trey removed another chair from the mix. There were two left. The three of them didn’t look as if they wanted to give in. Jade started the music promptly after. They walked around the two chairs faster. Malleus was just taking bigger strides. Jade stopped the music soon after. Vil grabbed the chair and sat down. Malleus and Lilia fought tooth and nail for the other. Malleus bumped Lilia away from the chair and sat in it. 

“And you guys talk about my butt.” Vil said, crossing his arms. 

“Malleus, after all we've been through?” Lilia said, panting on the floor beside him.

“Sorry, I want cake.” Malleus said with a coy smile. 

Lilia got up giggling. “I could bake you one.” 

Malleus visibly shuddered. Lilia smiled and walked over to Renmu and sat behind him. Now one chair was left. Vil stared down Malleus, Malleus just smiled. 

“Kick that horned bastard's butt!” Leona roared. 

Jade turned the music on and the battle began. They ran around the chair this time. Vil suppressed a giggle as he held his train. Lilia swayed Renmu with him to the music. Floyd waltzed over to Jade and switched the music to something more upbeat. “Run faster!” he commanded. 

Vil and Malleus ran faster around the chair and Floyd stopped the music as they were in mid run. They slipped and slid to get to the chair. Vil was draped over the chair, trying to climb into it. Malleus yanked the chair away, dragging Vil with him. Leona roared with laughter. 

“He’s dragging him like a rag doll!” Ruggie laughed out. 

Vil had no means of letting go. 

“Let go.” Mallues ordered.

“NEVER!” Vil Shouted back. 

Vil kept scrambling to get up but Malleus prevented him from doing so. Vil kicked the chair from Malleus. The chair skidded away and they scrambled for it. Vil grabbed Malleus’s legs, causing him to fall. Vil skipped over him to the chair. Malleus pulled his train, causing Vil to stumble back. Renmu was in tears at how funny the scene was. They all watched them fight in amusement. Vil flopped over the chair again. Malleus pulled at his legs to get him off. Vil kicked and thrashed at Malleus. His boot flew off, sending Malleus backwards. Vil Scrambled into the chair and sat down. Vil threw his hands up and rejoiced. “Yes! Yes! It’s mine!” 

Malleus started to laugh from his spot on the floor. Vil crossed his legs as he calmed down but went back into a fit of laughter. 

“Vil wins the two slices of cake.” Trey said laughing. “Don’t worry, I'll make you a special cake next time, Malleus.” 

Vil summoned a hand mirror and checked his appearance. “I still look beautiful.” 

Renmu couldn't suppress his laughter. This was the most fun he’s had in ages. Trey wrapped up Vil’s cake for him and they cleaned up the mess. The chair took quite a beating. Vil and Malleus agreed to split the cost. Either way, Azul was pleased. It was getting late so they all agreed to end the festivities. 

“Aww, I wish we could hang out more.” Cater whined. 

“We can always do this again, Cater.” Trey reasoned. 

“Yeah I know. But it was so much fun.” Cater sighed.

“It was.” Riddle said fondly. 

They all walked back to Octavinells Mirror together. Renmu took in the quiet aquatic life around them again as they walked. 

“We totes need to take a group photo.” Cater declared. 

“I wouldn’t mind that.” Riddle said. 

“I wouldn’t either.” Jade agreed. 

“C’mon, group photo!” Cater yelled. 

They all go into position. There was so much scrambling and shoving going on for a few seconds until everyone found a proper spot. Cater used magic to let his phone rise into the air to get everyone to fit. “Ready!?” Cater asked. 

“Ready!” A few of them said in unison. The phone snapped a few pictures of them before coming back down into Caters hands. “I’ll send everyone the group photo and all the photos I took tonight.” Cater said with a cheeky wink. 

“Have a good night you all.” Azul said. 

“I want to hug shrimpy.” Floyd said lazily. 

Renmu walked over to Floyd and hugged him to his surprise. Jade hugged the back of Renmu. 

“Bye bye, shrimpy.” Floyd giggled. 

“Bye Floyd.” Renmu mumbled. 

Floyd reluctantly let Renmu go. The rest of them walked back through the mirror to the Hall of Mirrors. Everyone walked over to their respected mirrors. 

“Goodbye, Renmu!” Kalim said, hugging Renmu. “I can’t wait to party with you again.” 

Renmu just smiled. Not knowing what to say.

“See you all later.” Jamil said, pulling Kalim along through the Mirror of Scarabia. 

“TTYL, Renmu.” Idia mumbled before walking through his Mirror. 

Leona ruffled Renmu’s hair. “You’re not so bad, herbivore. Let’s go, Ruggie.” Leona said walking through the mirror. 

“See ya, prefect.” Ruggie waved, running after Leona. 

“Until next time, Roi du Mystery.” Rook cried dramatically. Renmu waved him goodbye.

Vil huffed. “You're not too bad, Prefect. I wish to style you though next time. Let’s go, Rook.” 

“Yes, Roi du Poison.” The two of them waltzed through their mirror together. 

“Son of Man.” Renmu looked up at Malleus and smiled. 

“Thanks for remembering me. I would have never had fun tonight if you didn’t invite me.” 

“You’re welcome.” Renmu said softly. 

“Thank you for the good time. In my day, I would have never done something so fun.” Lilia said, chuckling. 

“Always talking as if you are old.” Trey said laughing. 

“Maybe I am.” Lilia said coyly. “Come, Malleus. The others are waiting for our return.” Malleus and Lilia walked through their mirror one after the other. Lilia blew Renmu a kiss goodbye before fully stepping in. 

“Would you like us to walk you back, Renmu?’ Trey asked. 

Renmu shook his head. “I’ll be fine.” 

“Well goodnight Renmu.” Trey said smiling. 

“Goodnight Renny.” Cater cooed, hugging Renmu tightly. 

“Goodnight, Renmu.” Riddle said lastly. 

“Goodnight.” Renmu mumbled. 

Cater finally let go and blew him a kiss goodbye like Lilia did. They went in one by one, disappearing beyond the looking glass. Renmu sighed to himself and walked back to Ramshackle. The night air was chilly. The wind rustled the tree above. Renmu smiled to himself, recalling the night's events. This was the first time he was ever invited to a party, let alone to have fun. This was the first time he had ever gotten to know so many people. The first time he has ever had the prospect of making friends and was promised to be included in the future. The first time he was part of something. It made Renmu giddy inside and out. Renmu couldn’t stop the smile from spreading across his face. He was happy for the first time in forever. He missed the feeling it gave him inside. This is what happiness was. Renmu couldn’t wait for more happy days to come.

You have reached the end of First Impressions! I hope you enjoyed this fic. (ﾉ´ヮ`)ﾉ*: ･ﾟ

To read another Codex, click here for my Archives.

For background information on this fic, click here Scout's Notes.

[tiagoschinese-literatureblog]

10 interesting Chinese novels

Strange Beasts of China by Yan Ge

Strange Beasts of China is set in the city of Yong’an. Here, many races of humanoid ‘beasts’ live amongst the humans, in a similar fashion to Tolkien’s elves and dwarves.

These beasts all have aesthetic and behavioural characteristics which identify them as part of the Sacrificial Beasts, Flourishing Beasts, Sorrowful Beasts etc. (booksandbao)

Fu Ping by Wang Anyi

Fu Ping is set in Shanghai, at a moment in time that is neither modern nor ancient, as the Cultural Revolution of Mao Zedong and the Communist Party has forever changed the landscape of China. (booksandbao)

Monkey King by Wu Cheng’en

Sun Wukong travels and studies and gets ever stronger until he has mastered death itself and ends up picking a fight with every angel in heaven. He is then sealed beneath a mountain for 500 years by Buddha himself.

The rest of the novel follows the fabled journey to the West, as a young monk is tasked by heaven to deliver some scriptures from China to India.

Early on his travels, he stumbles across the sealed Monkey King, frees him, and takes him on as an apprentice in an attempt to reform the wild Sun Wukong. (booksandbao)

The Shadow Book of Ji Yun by Ji Yun

Ji Yun was an 18th Century Chinese philosopher and politician who wrote a frankly obscene number of short accounts concerning supernatural phenomena and spiritual experiences.(booksandbao)

The Three Body Problem by Cixin Liu

Set against the backdrop of China's Cultural Revolution, a secret military project sends signals into space to establish contact with aliens. An alien civilization on the brink of destruction captures the signal and plans to invade Earth.(us.macmillan)

Waste Tide by Chen Qiufan

In Chinese science fiction author Chen Qiufan's debut novel Waste Tide, a young woman finds herself transformed and stuck in the midst of a vicious power struggle between factions in the polluted, fictitious Silicon Isle in Guiyu, China. (theverge)

Chronicle of a Blood Merchant by Yu Hua

A man named Xu Sanguan learns that you can sell your own blood for a good price — all you have to do is make sure to drink an inordinate number of bowls of water before you go. As he grows into a husband and father, part of a complicated family, he continues to return to the hospital through famine and struggle. This book is compelling for the twists and turns of its family turmoil, but also for the description of this blood-selling subculture and the questions it raises. What does it mean to be family — is it only defined by blood? And what if the only capital you have is your own body, your own energy, your own blood?(bookriot)

The Day the Sun Died by Lan Yianke

One evening in early June, in a small Chinese town, Li Niannian notices that something is wrong. Everyone should be going home, heading to sleep. But instead, they’re all wandering in the darkness — sleepwalking. And over the course of one night, these sleeping townspeople will fall into chaos: secrets revealed, violence unleashed, past hurts unearthed. Lianke’s novel is a dystopian tale meant to challenge the “Chinese dream” promoted by President Xi Jinping, parodying the sunny vision of the government of what the Chinese people believe, contrasting it with the shame and madness of what’s unearthed in the darkness of night as Li Niannian and his father try to wake up their town. (bookriot)

I Live in the Slums by Can Xue

Can Xue’s works are famously surreal, strange, and amorphous. So her absurd short stories are probably the best place to try out her style. In this book, the characters flee and shift, trying to fit in, trying to find a place free of abuse, where they can be safe, in a world defined by scattered-ness, by lack of community, by inequality. A young man searches for a magic pond, a Kafka-esque rat-person tries to find peace, a magpie protects its partner from human neighbors. Can Xue’s pen name refers to the snow left over at the end of winter — she chose to write under a pseudonym to hide her gender while publishing her radical, experimental fiction. (bookriot)

The Seventh Day by Yu Hua

Arguably, the prolific and acclaimed Yu Hua’s best-known novel in English, The Seventh Day, is the story of Yang Fei, a foundling brought up in the Chinese countryside who becomes an outsider to its society, only to die and roam the afterlife revisiting the people he has lost in the course of his life. The result is a composite of China’s panoramic history with all of its highs and lows. (theculturetrip)

@mrwrightsenglishclass