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daisiesinchampagne · 18 days ago

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Bargain

“Go now, be useful for once,” Mother said before shutting the door behind me, leaving no time to say my goodbyes.

I didn’t blame her—she did what needed to be done. Our family was abundant: me, my seven siblings, Mother and Father, and our remaining grandparents, all cramped within the confines of our modest home. Our so-called estate wasn’t much to speak of—a few sheep, a handful of goats, and two geese that were nearing their imminent death due to a hole in the shed, barely standing against the cruel winter winds.

The countess didn’t pay much for me, but it was just enough to get the family through the winter. I was to stay at the estate and serve her until I reach the age of twenty, but deep in my heart, I knew that I would never return home. I didn’t mind the arrangement, I was somewhat happy to not be a burden any longer. Mother tried time and time again for a son—a strong pair of hands to share the weight of the farm—each time she was met with another daughter. Among ourselves, we’d joke that she will keep going until the animal barn is occupied. Mother’s womb was cursed, but resilient as she was, she refused to give up.

I stood outside the door for a moment, shivering as the cold gnawed through my thin coat. I allowed myself one fleeting moment of sadness, one brief pang of longing for my sisters’ familiar chatter, only while I was still close to my home. Once I began my journey up to the mountains, there would be no room for such indulgence.

I took a step, then another, and then another, slowly starting to make my way through the village, eery silent on this cold winter day. My shoes were not nearly sturdy enough to withstand the slush and wetness of the melting snow, and so my feet felt cold and slippery inside of my boots. I told myself it was fine—the Countess’s castle was sure to be warm.

I knew the way well. As little girls, my sisters and I would venture towards the castle on playful escapades, pretending we were princesses invited to a grand ball. The construction loomed over the village, a monolith of cold grey stone crowned with towers so tall they would often pierce the clouds.

The Countess herself never descended to the village. Her affairs were conducted through written correspondence with the chief, and though no one had ever seen her, she was regarded with a mixture of reverence and gratitude. Food, money, and work trickled down from her estate, and as long as those needs were met, her anonymity was unquestioned.

At last, my long journey came to an end as I stood before the grand entrance of the castle. I reached for the heavy iron knocker and let it fall. The door creaked open almost instantly, as if the mistress herself had been standing just behind it, awaiting my arrival.

“Welcome, girl.”

Before me stood an impossibly tall woman, her presence commanding and severe. I had to crane my neck just to meet her piercing gaze.

“My lady,” I stammered, dropping into the deepest curtsy my frozen knees would allow. Mother had insisted I show gratitude, no matter how much my pride might protest.

“Come in, now,” she hurried me inside, no doubt after seeing my red cheeks and blue hands, bitten by the frost.

The castle’s interior was nothing short of magnificent. Ornate rugs cushioned every step, golden trim gleamed on every surface, and a grand piano stood in the corner of the vast entry hall.

“Let me help you with your coat,” the Countess said, a faint smile curling her lips as she tugged the coat from my shoulders and let it fall carelessly to the floor. “Shall I toss it? You’ll be given new clothes, of course.”

“As you wish, my lady.”

I didn’t care. Had she told me to strip naked and burn every scrap I owned, I would’ve gladly complied.

“Now,” the Countess continued, her tone clipped but not unkind, “your room is prepared, with your uniform and other necessities waiting inside.”

“Thank you, my lady.”

A question lingered on my tongue, and I couldn’t go any further without my curiosity being unfulfilled. “Will I be sharing my room with the other girls? When will I meet the rest of the help?”

The Countess paused mid-step and turned her head slightly toward me, her voice soft but final. “There are no other girls.”

I dared not ask more.

She led me down a series of silent corridors, the only sound our footsteps against the polished stone floor. The air felt heavy, as though the walls themselves were listening. The Countess moved with fluid grace, her steps purposeful, until at last, we stopped before a wooden door tucked away in a secluded wing.

“This will be your room,” she said simply, opening the door and stepping aside to let me enter.

The chamber was modest but clean—a narrow bed, a small writing desk, and a wardrobe stood against the stone walls. On the bed lay a neatly folded uniform.

“Rest. I will call for you when I require your presence.”

With that, the Countess turned on her heel and shut the door behind her, the sound of the lock clicking into place echoing faintly in the still air.

I was left alone.

***

The next day I waited and waited, but the servant bell never rang. Mother had always told me that the help should neither be seen nor heard, so I remained hidden in my room until I the relentless growling in my stomach became unbearable. It was when the night befell that I decided to exit my room and make my way downstair to fetch a bite to eat. Thankfully, my mistress had walked me through the kitchen the day before, sparing me the need to trouble her.

The kitchen was located in the basement, to the left of an expansive wine cellar. On the far side stood a large entrance framed by double doors. The air grew colder as I descended, and shadows danced along the stone walls, cast by flickering sconces.

In the kitchen, I rummaged through the pantry and cabinets, but to my dismay, I could not find so much as a loaf of bread. It struck me as odd—peculiar, even—considering the Countess's tall and robust figure.

Resigned to another night of hunger, I turned to leave, the cold flagstones chilling my bare feet. But just as I reached the doorway, I froze. The faint sound of shuffled footsteps echoed from beyond the double doors, followed by the creak of one slowly swinging open.

A rancid stench hit my nostrils, making my stomach lurch violently. I kneeled above a cauldron, gagging and retching, but with nothing in my stomach, I could only produce bile, burning my throat and mouth as it went up and out.

Then I saw it.

A figure stood in the entrance of the kitchen, looking not at me but past me, its eyes milky and unseeing. Its skin, sickly pale and stretched taut over sharp bones, looked as though it might tear with even the faintest movement. It swayed slightly, head twitching with an unnatural rhythm. Its skeletal frame was draped in a garment I recognized instantly—a black dress, identical to the one I wore.

I couldn’t scream—the bile in my mouth sealed it shut. With every ounce of strength I had left, I scrambled upright, my feet slipping briefly on the slick floor. I bolted for the stairs, shoving past the creature with my elbow as I fled, its frail frame giving way beneath my desperate push.

I fled upstairs, breathless and desperate to escape the oppressive confines of the castle. The grand front door loomed before me, heavy and unyielding, refusing to budge no matter how I tugged and clawed at its gilded handle. Behind me, a faint rustle stirred the silence, and I turned sharply—there she was.

The Countess was poised elegantly, half-lying upon a couch, a glass of deep red wine balanced delicately in her pale hand. Her presence, though unexpected at this late hour, brought me relief. Whatever horror lurked in the shadows of the basement seemed distant in her commanding presence.

"There you are," she said, her lips curling into a serene smile. "What has frightened you so, my dear?"

I tried to respond, but my voice faltered, choked by the sobs racking my chest and the tears streaking my cheeks.

“You look terrified, girl,” She said, putting her glass aside. “Come on, sit with me.”

I sat down beside her, struggling to contain my shaky hands.

“I saw…” I began, my voice quivering as I struggled to produce a sentence. “I saw someone in the kitchen.”

The Countess's smile did not waver, her emerald eyes studying me with detached amusement. "Oh? Did you now?”

"It—it looked human," I stammered, my voice cracking under the weight of my fear. My arms wrapped around my torso as though trying to physically restrain the terror bubbling within me.

"Hush now, child," she cooed, reaching out to stroke my hair with a gloved hand. "There are no monsters in this castle. Perhaps some warm chocolate would soothe your nerves. Would you like that?”

“If you’d be so kind,” I managed. She was not surprised in the slightest, and I began to think that perhaps it was my exhausted and hungry body was the one playing tricks of me.

She reached for a small bell and gave it a faint ring. The chime echoed through the halls, fading into an uneasy silence. Time stretched unbearably, the stillness gnawing at my frayed nerves.

After a glance at the clock, the Countess sighed lightly. "You'll have to forgive my maid. She's unwell."

I smiled. It wasn’t a servant’s place to judge the quality of the help.

At last, footsteps echoed from below—slow, uneven. From the shadows of the basement stairs emerged a frail figure, clutching a tarnished silver tray with an unsteady grip. The dim light revealed her hollow eyes, sallow skin stretched tight over sharp bones, and the unnerving twitch of her head with every step.

I sprung up, my body trembling as it slowly approached us. The Countess’s plump hand tugged on mine, forcing me back down on the couch. She didn’t let go, her fingers tightening with surprising strength.

"There," she said with an air of finality as the creature set the tray before me. "Your chocolate.”

The cup was chipped and stained, its contents a vile concoction of yellowed milk and clumped cocoa powder. A foul smell wafted up, coiling into my nostrils and threatening to turn my stomach.

“Go on,” the Countess urged, nodding at the cup, her smile sharpening at the edges.

I looked at the monster, flailing and struggling to maintain its balance. My body once again betrayed me, my hand shaking so violently the drink almost spilling on my dress.

With a deep breath, I forced myself to take a sip. The sour tang hit my tongue, mingling with the bile already souring the insides of my mouth. I gagged, barely managing to swallow.

"Not to your liking?" she asked, her eyes alight with amusement, like a child observing a caged animal.

She plucked the cup from my shaking hands and handed it back to the creature, who accepted it with jittery fingers.

"Well," the Countess said lightly, her voice carrying a chill that cut through the suffocating warmth of the room. "You've had your treat. Now, it's my turn."

Without hesitation, she tightened her grip on my hand and yanked me closer. Before I could scream, her teeth sank into my neck. A sharp, searing pain shot through me, and I cried out, my voice breaking into gasps and sobs. My limbs felt impossibly heavy, and my eyes could no longer see, as my body slumped into the Countess's arms as she finally pulled away.

The world swam in and out of focus. Distant voices murmured, but their words were hazy and disjointed.

"If she dies, you may have the scraps," the Countess's voice floated through the fog.

"If she survives... well, you might just have yourself a little friend."

I took a painful breath.

#short story #essay writing #booklr #horror #inspired by re village #horror story #short and sweet

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lionspawfic · 6 months ago

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Velaryon Family: Part 1

Amari Qo, Princess of Sweet Lotus Vale and Wife of Daemon Velaryon

It was under her rule that Driftmark began to attract more merchants, and she encouraged trade with her home country, attracting many sailors and experienced shipwright to further enhance her husband’s fleet. It was well-known that she had a long desire to make connections further into Essos that was denied until the days of her grandson Corlys, who, by all accounts, inherited her adventurous spirit and clever mind.

Lord Daemon Velaryon married a Princess of the Summer Isles, Amari Qo, descendent of famous Queens Xanda Qo and Chatana Qo in 27 AC. The two met during a diplomatic event during Aegon I's reign in 25 AC to celebrate the anniversary of Aegon I's crowning an event attended widely by representatives from many countries that praised the lavish event and the apparent wealth of the Targaryen's on display and secured by the King's two heirs who were both equally on display.

Lord Daemon, a favorite at court dominated by his sister and her husband, however only had eyes for the Princess in her finery and it was rumored that he declared to his sister that he had found the only woman he would ever wed who outshone all others. This is a well-known story though not mentioned in any of the remaining letters of the couple or their various friends, chief among them Queen Alyssa. It is how ever well documented that the two shared many dances and were often found in conversation in High Valaryian, the only shared language they had at the time, and the language of Aegon's Court, as Princess Amari had not yet learned to speak the Common Tongue. Something she was quick to rectify as by the end of the week long celebration she had already learned enough to give a formal farewell to the King and Princes and get assurance from Lord Daemon of his correspondence.

A promise that the Lord kept all throughout the couple's long marriage. Shown in the well kept letters preserved by their many descendants. It was by all accounts a love match as well as a practical one. Princess Amari was well-known to have a lust for adventure and seeking a match and was well aware Lord Daemon came from a family well placed to keep her in an estate she was accustomed and grant her considerable influence even if it would mean surrendering her title as Princess and potential successor. Princess Amari herself was one of seven children, the fifth, and wanted to stand out. Lord Daemon had a corresponding sense of pride, well aware of his own family's prestige and finding himself well please by both his bride's mind, familial connections and wealth, and her title of princess.

For many reasons Princess Amari accepted his suit eventually and left the Summer Isles for Driftmark, accompanied by several close friends and attendants and a considerable dowry. The couple had a fairly happy marriage by all accounts, resulting in eight children who lived to adulthood.

As Lord Daemon was frequently away at the Court due to his role, Amari ruled Driftmark often in all but name proving to be quick and clever, adapting to her new lands and people. She is known for popularizing the use of "summer spices" as they were known within Driftmark, marking its cuisine as unique. She also brought with her in hew dower some famous hardwoods from her homeland that were used to reinforce the Driftwood throne's base.

She always spoke the language of the Andals with a pronounced accent that was smooth and with a musical quality according to her admirers. She was a known polyglot, speaking at least five languages due her family's position in trade and her own love for learning and curiosity. She was firm but had a kindness to her from all accounts wanting to speak to others in their own tongues to understand them better.

She outlived her husband, sons, and daughter-in-law before she passed in her bedroom at High Tide after having been introduced to her great-grandchildren, Laena and Laenor Velaryon.

Women of the Tides by Maestor Aurion

Divider created by @zaldritzosrose

#house of the dragon #hotd oc #velaryon oc

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apphiarothowrites · 1 year ago

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Playing into Marco being a romantic let’s go with a different theme

A correspondence shall we say, anonymous of course between the revolutionary army and wbp.

The blue gentleman is odd exciting, he taunts and teases between paragraphs, punctuating with perfect prose. It’s stupid and silly and by god Marco is way too old to be keeping all these letter and rereading them like a love struck fool. Because he’s not, obviously. It’s just the prospect of matching wits with someone is.. exciting. The letters, the writing it’s all part of the game. Secrets and lies.

There’s no billowed shirt man, no fair maiden..

The letter ends,

Yours,

Blue.

Marco can feel his face heat up and he curses quietly. He is literally grasping at straws here, if you counts rolled up letters as straws. And yet in his minds eye a phantom smiles with a sharp grin.

Catch me if you can mr Holmes

(This is before ace arrives, whaddya whaddya you get where I’m going with this, kisses and all that. May you be given shelter from the hell of a 40 hr work week)

The news coo never has an address to take the letters to, but they somehow know anyway.

The letters that arrive for Dragon's chief of staff are all the same stationary and always sealed with an unmarked wax blob. The signature at the bottom is a bird claw without a name.

My Blue Gentleman, the letters always start-

As a child of the sea, roaming and rambling is in my blood. First and foremost, 'settling down' is as foreign to me as I'm sure it is to you given how many ports of origin your letters have found me with on their address labels. Your attitude can certainly make a man wonder, though, what it would take to have a home island.

But I suppose we must all have a place we started? I assume, as secretive as you are, you'll merely tease me with a hint or insinuation instead of telling me outright despite how much I'd wish you would. So, in the spirit of beginnings, I'll tell you of mine. I was born on an island in the calm belt that doesn't exist any more. I am told I was supposed to be a slave but I honestly barely remember much of my life from then, only that my first years of life were generally unremarkable. I remember watching the sea and a great thunderous event that made me think the world was ending, and then I remember meeting my father.

He isn't my father by blood, but he is my father in all ways that matter. He found me after the event that shook the island and took me with him when he left. He is my captain and the man who gave me the wings with which I soar today. He is the man I will follow to my death and to whom I owe everything. But aren't all fathers supposed to be that way? Supportive, inspiring saviors to guide you in life?

Do you have a father, Blue Gentleman? Do you have a beginning, a place you started?

Don't go thinking I haven't noticed you don't much refer to your past. Forgive me if I'm pushing too hard, too soon. For pushing at all. I can't help my curiosity, I see something shiny and exciting and I can't help myself wanting to peck at it until I know every turn and facet of it's existence. It makes me an excellent doctor and an excellent hand to my father on this ship. And I've always had a soft spot for the color blue. But I know it's invasive and discomforting to receive such treatment.

Yours,

\|/ | '

#AR writes #letters between friends or maybe more #raccooon once again on that good shit #I love letter writing AUs I just don't get the chance to write them often #and I'm running with an idea that marco was a child slave for celestial dragons in god valley and WB found him in the aftermath of the figh #just like how roger found shanks lmfao

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masongrizchel · 14 days ago

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Galileo Galilei: The Father of Modern Astronomy

Few historical figures, such as Galileo Galilei, have profoundly shaped our understanding of the universe. Often called the "Father of Modern Astronomy," Galileo revolutionized how we view the cosmos with his pioneering telescope use, groundbreaking discoveries, and unshakable commitment to science.

The Renaissance Mind

Born in Pisa, Italy, in 1564, Galileo grew up during the Italian Renaissance—a period of extraordinary artistic, cultural, and scientific growth. Initially studying medicine, he quickly found his passion in mathematics and natural philosophy. This curiosity would lead him to challenge long-held beliefs and lay the groundwork for modern science.

Revolutionizing the Telescope

Although Galileo didn’t invent the telescope, he was the first to use it extensively for astronomical purposes. In 1609, he crafted an improved version capable of magnifying objects up to 30 times. What he saw through his lens astonished the world:

The Moon’s Surface: Instead of a smooth, perfect sphere, Galileo observed craters and mountains, proving that celestial bodies were not divine and unblemished.

Jupiter’s Moons: In 1610, he discovered four moons orbiting Jupiter (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto), showing that not everything revolved around Earth.

Venus’s Phases: By observing Venus's changing phases, he provided evidence that it orbited the Sun, supporting the heliocentric model.

The Milky Way: Galileo revealed that the Milky Way was composed of countless stars, vastly expanding our understanding of the universe’s scale.

The Heliocentric Controversy

Galileo’s observations strongly supported the Copernican theory, which placed the Sun at the center of the solar system instead of Earth. This idea directly contradicted the geocentric view endorsed by the Catholic Church. In 1616, the Church declared the heliocentric theory heretical, but Galileo continued his research and writings.

1632, Galileo published Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems, a book comparing the geocentric and heliocentric models. Though cleverly written, it angered the Church, and Galileo was summoned to Rome to face the Inquisition.

Trial and Legacy

Galileo was found "vehemently suspect of heresy" and forced to recant his support for the heliocentric model. He spent the remaining years of his life under house arrest. Despite this, his work continued influencing generations of scientists, including Isaac Newton.

Galileo’s Contributions Beyond Astronomy

While his celestial discoveries are most celebrated, Galileo made significant contributions to physics:

The Law of Falling Bodies: He demonstrated that objects fall at the same rate regardless of their mass (famously illustrated by his experiment from the Leaning Tower of Pisa).

Inertia: Galileo’s work laid the foundation for Newton’s first law of motion.

The Pendulum: His studies on pendulums revolutionized timekeeping and led to the development of more accurate clocks.

Did You Know?

Galileo's early invention of a military compass was widely used for calculations in artillery and fortifications.

His later years were marked by blindness, yet he continued to work and correspond with scientists across Europe.

In 1992, the Catholic Church formally acknowledged that Galileo was correct about the heliocentric model—over 350 years after his trial.

A Legacy Written in the Stars

Galileo’s relentless pursuit of truth forever changed the course of science. He showed us that observation and experimentation—not tradition or authority—should guide our understanding of the natural world.

When you look at the night sky, remember Galileo. Through his telescope, he dared to question the status quo and revealed the universe in stunning detail, inspiring humanity to keep looking up and asking, “What’s out there?”

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internationalrealestatenews · 11 months ago

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[ad_1] You’re accustomed to the variables that have an effect on your native housing market, corresponding to financial growth, zoning legal guidelines, taxes and rates of interest. However few actual property professionals will take care of a market increase following successful TV present. In our TV-obsessed tradition, exhibits like “Yellowstone,” during which land disputes are a central battle, have moved the financial needle in the actual areas they painting. Elevated tourism and native job development deliver new individuals to those areas, creating excessive demand for housing. Brokers in markets that profit from the hype round a TV present should grapple with each the constructive and damaging curiosity it generates—and buckle up for the journey. Waco’s Makeover in ‘Fixer Higher’ Chip and Joanna Gaines put the city of Waco, Texas, within the highlight with their HGTV present “Fixer Higher,” which aired from 2013 to 2018. Earlier than the present, Waco, a small college city that was struggling economically, was greatest recognized for the 1993 bloodbath involving cult chief David Koresh. However the Gaines’ Magnolia model has made many investments within the native market, together with a purchasing complicated and a new lodge opening this yr to be featured on the upcoming HGTV present “Fixer Higher: The Resort.” Together with the rising prominence of the Magnolia model, Waco has skilled a tourism increase, an inflow of jobs and “a world metropolis PR marketing campaign no city may ever pay for,” Mayor Dillon Meek informed native reporters. Nonetheless, not all is arising roses (or magnolias) for longtime residents, who noticed common dwelling costs regionally improve almost 52% from 2015 to 2019 and a tax appraisal improve of roughly 30% in 2022, in keeping with stories. Out-of-state relocation patrons, who are likely to have bigger housing budgets, have descended on Waco and propped up the native market. Montana’s ‘Yellowstone’ Impact Few TV exhibits are filmed in a location with as a lot pure magnificence as Bozeman, Mont., the place Paramount’s “Yellowstone” is produced. The present debuted in 2018 to a lot fanfare. The COVID-19 pandemic and the period of distant work adopted shortly thereafter, resulting in an inflow of rich new residents searching for properties, ranches and open land. Right this moment, costs in Montana throughout the board are at an all-time excessive as financial enlargement, jobs and tourism skyrocket. One examine by an area actual property brokerage confirmed that “Yellowstone” introduced 2.1 million vacationers and $730 million in related spending to Montana in 2021. Seventy-one p.c of these vacationers had seen “Yellowstone,” in keeping with the examine. Manufacturing on season 4 of the present alone created greater than 500 jobs and introduced $72 million to the native financial system, the examine notes. Extra broadly, the financial system in all of Montana grew by nearly 7% in 2021—the quickest tempo in additional than 40 years—making it the seventh-fastest rising state financial system within the nation. In 2020 and 2021, Montana was one of many few states within the U.S. to develop in inhabitants. However the median dwelling worth regionally has elevated to $500,000—double what it was in 2020. Montana land values additionally elevated 10% from 2021 to 2022. In Bozeman, dwelling of the Dutton household in “Yellowstone,” the median rental worth soared greater than 60% yr over yr from 2021 to 2022, and the median worth for a single-family dwelling has elevated to almost $750,000 for the reason that pandemic started in 2020, in keeping with CNBC. Whereas “Yellowstone” is rumored to be filming its closing season, time will inform if nationwide consideration stays on Montana or pivots to West Texas, the place Paramount’s upcoming present “6666” reportedly will happen. If you're an agent fortunate sufficient to be in an space with rising dwelling gross sales stemming from successful

TV present, understand that you’ll be coping with each new and longtime residents who're adjusting to alter within the native market and wish steerage. Keep watch over streaming networks for his or her subsequent choices, as your neck of the woods may very well be a setting viewers fall in love with. [ad_2]

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ear-worthy · 1 year ago

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Chasing Life With Dr. Sanjay Gupta Returns For Season Nine

Despite the "red alert" status at CNN, one of several bright spots for CNN has been Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent. Gupta has been a consistent voice of scientific reason in the face of weirdos and wingnuts who deny science because it doesn't comport with their current political viewpoints. Witness former Georgia Republican gubernatorial candidate and current GOP chair Kandiss Taylor, who has recently advanced her conspiracy of globes. While claiming she's not a flat-earther, Taylor commented, "every store, you buy a globe, there's globes everywhere. Why?" With globe antagonists around every corner, Gupta took a constant barrage of virulent criticism from anti-vaxxers, COVID conspiracy theorists, and anti-science advocates during the pandemic. Despite the poisonous nature of some of those attacks, Gupta remained steadfast and reasonable in his commitment to science-based treatments and support for vaccines. Gupta's CNN podcast has been around for eight seasons and has consistently been one of its best. CNN Audio has announced Dr.  Sanjay  Gupta will delve deeper into how weight fits into our understanding of what it means to be healthy in the ninth season of his podcast Chasing  Life  with Dr.  Sanjay  Gupta, which returns Tuesday, January 16.

Can a holistic picture of your health really be painted by a number on a scale? This season, Dr. Gupta explores society’s deeply instilled beliefs around weight and helps guide listeners to redefine what being healthy really means. A new year means New Year’s resolutions, and it’s the time of year people are bombarded with advertisements advocating for the newest workout or diet fad to shed those extra pounds. Whether your resolution is to eat healthier, exercise more or lose weight, the goal is to become a healthier you. This season will feature expertise from a variety of guests, as Dr. Gupta uncovers what the science tells us about weight, and how it should impact how we view our overall health.

“Our society has long adhered to the notion that your weight and your overall health are synonymous,” said Dr. Gupta. “I hope this season of Chasing Life gives listeners a better understanding of a science-based approach to a holistic and healthy lifestyle, and how much weight should factor in the equation.”

Season nine of Chasing Life will debut new episodes every Tuesday and will be available to listen to on CNN Audio or wherever you get your podcasts.

Since Dr. Gupta joined the network in 2001, he has covered some of the most important health stories in the United States and around the world. He plays an integral role in CNN’s reporting on health and medical news for all of CNN’s shows domestically and internationally, and regularly contributes to  CNN Digital. In addition to his on-air duties for CNN, Dr. Gupta is a practicing neurosurgeon.

There are too many bad doctors on TV and in other media. They exploit people's fears, damage the guest's privacy and self-esteem for ratings, and downplay science in favor of any opinion that attracts the most listeners or viewers. Dr. Drew, Dr. Oz, Dr. Phil! I think Dr. Gupta has an honest intellectual curiosity and well-developed sense of altruism. While I may not agree with everything he says, I've never doubted his motives.

Season nine of Chasing Life will debut new episodes every Tuesday and will be available to listen on CNN Audio or wherever you get your podcasts.

#podcast #podcasting #mental health #health #wellness

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metamoonshots · 1 year ago

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Bitcoin is rising more and more scarce, and its value actions are lastly displaying it. Latest statistics from the on-chain analytics platform IntoTheBlock reveal that an unprecedented portion of the accessible BTC provide has been securely stashed away for the long run. Lengthy-Time period Bitcoin Holders Stay Resilient Lengthy-term Bitcoin holders have considerably ramped up their publicity to the asset ranging from mid-2021 and have continued to carry all through the whole thing of the bear market. Solely on just a few events has their share of the provision seen any discount. As of October, 80% of Bitcoin is owned by long-term traders. This determine represents a report excessive for the flagship cryptocurrency, which lastly began to point out indicators of value restoration, with a current rally to only over $35,000. Extra data counsel that a large accumulation occurred across the $25k-$31k space, which is indicative of the “long-term bullishness of traders.” Over the previous month, Bitcoin has posted over 25% features. The newest value motion has helped the long-term holders to interrupt the earlier report set in 2015. ITB information additionally revealed that the upcoming Bitcoin halving will additional scale back inflation, making the asset much more scarce. An analogous bullish sentiment was echoed by funding banking big Morgan Stanley, which just lately mentioned in a report that the upcoming occasion, slated for subsequent 12 months, will spark a brand new bull run. The newest rally, nevertheless, has been pushed primarily by the renewed optimism on spot Bitcoin ETF approval in the USA. Traders internationally are intently monitoring the regulatory developments involving property on the Securities and Trade Fee (SEC). So far, the monetary regulator has not permitted any spot Bitcoin ETF. A number of corporations, corresponding to Grayscale Investments, ARK Funding, BlackRock, and Constancy, have submitted functions to the SEC for numerous Bitcoin ETF choices and are at present awaiting a regulatory choice. Consultants counsel that approval ought to are available by early 2024. Such a improvement is predicted to set off a shopping for rally. Unlocking Bitcoin’s Pent-Up Institutional Demand Institutional traders are displaying substantial curiosity in Bitcoin, however they're holding off on a shopping for spree till a spot BTC exchange-traded fund (ETF) features regulatory approval, based on Paul Brody, the worldwide blockchain chief at Ernst & Younger (EY). Throughout a segment on CNBC’s Crypto Decrypted, Brody asserted that BTC is harboring substantial pent-up demand from institutional traders due to the shortage of a spot Bitcoin ETF for an extended interval. He emphasised that there are trillions of dollars from institutional sources poised to stream into Bitcoin as quickly as such a fund receives the inexperienced mild. SPECIAL OFFER (Sponsored) Binance Free $100 (Unique): Use this link to register and obtain $100 free and 10% off charges on Binance Futures first month (terms).PrimeXBT Particular Provide: Use this link to register & enter CRYPTOPOTATO50 code to obtain as much as $7,000 in your deposits.

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projectoffice5487 · 2 years ago

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Safe Storage in East London: Convenience, Affordability, and Peace of Mind

This empirical analysis followed a qualitative approach through digital semi-structured interviews with twenty individuals, who have been tourism private and non-private stakeholders. Findings reveal that organisations are involved in planning and administration of land activities to attain Blue Flag standing and are promoting environmental awareness amongst the public. The majority of members felt that the status would improve the quality of the water, beach-front and environmental training and coaching. Current conservation-related plans embrace infrastructural development, similar to sewage pipe alternative and environmental cleansing campaigns.

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64bitgamer · 2 years ago

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meteorologistaustenlonek · 5 years ago

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#ScienceRules: One Bottle of Oil

This was written in 2011 but not submitted to Smithsonian Magazine when my family and I went to Orange Beach for vacation, a few years after the Deepwater Horizon disaster. —

“I have a lot of things on my desk on my desk at the Memphis Pink Palace Museum & Planetarium education department offices: the ever-necessary telephone, coffee mug, pictures of my wife and kids, assorted pens/pencils, a…

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#Beach Pollution #Chief Curiosity Correspondent #Clean Energy #Crude Oil #Deepwater Horizon #Environment #Environmental Writing #Gulf Coast #Museum Exhibits #Oil Spill #Renewable Energy #Science Communications #Science Rules #Science Writer #Smithsonian Magazine #tar balls #There Is No Planet "B"

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leighlim · 6 years ago

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No idea what brought me to Hank’s YouTube channel...but I did end up on this video which brought me to Emily Graslie’s channel.

I’m not much into Natural History but watching a number of Emily’s videos made me consider popping by the one closest to me.

It’s one thing to have something you’re interested in....it’s another thing to be able to infect others with that interest. This is Emily’s talent. And I have to be reminded that she actually spent years studying art...rather than taxidermy methods.

Note: Text in between the dividing lines are from me…outside from that any text are generated by the link. (Somehow the theme I’ve chosen…mixes the link text with what I wrote! So this is my solution!)

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#Hank Green #Emily Graslie #taxidermist #Speaker #The Brain Scoop #Finding Your Dream Job #Finding My Dream Job #Chief Curiosity Correspondent #specimen preparation

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fatehbaz · 3 years ago

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In 1824, the American naturalist James Pierce traveled to the newly acquired Territory of Florida, where a Seminole chief told him a story [...]. Pierce wrote that “it is believed [...] that a monster, with a large serpent’s body [...] occupies a large sink or cave in East Florida, guarding a mine. [...] The Spanish authorities made a fruitless search for this treasure a few years hence.” Pierce published this anecdote in the American Journal of Science as part of an article of Florida’s geography and natural resources, yet he included the Seminole’s story merely as “an instance of Indian credulity,” an ethnographic curiosity that might amuse his readers but was unrelated to the scientific observations [...]. Far from being credulous, however, this Seminole was recounting an actual scientific expedition that had occurred in Spanish East Florida in 1790, one in which Native storytelling was central.

Through the power of his stories, a Creek Indian named Yaolaychi motivated this expedition, influenced how its members pursued and narrated knowledge while in the field, and shaped how officials and men of science in Saint Augustine analyzed and acted upon the information the expedition generated. [...] Creek stories were coherent, memorable, and -- in certain circumstances -- compelling packages of information, and the collections and observations that the expedition members generated [...] remained associated with these narratives even after the expedition’s return to Saint Augustine. Tracing the presentation and reception of Yaolaychi’s stories reveals how geopolitical power and knowledge production were interconnected in some of the Southeast borderlands’ many geographic and social contexts. These included spaces in which Indian political power and approaches to nature were preeminent, particularly in the Florida interior [...].

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On February 15, 1790, an Indian-language interpreter named Alonso Gil visited the Saint Augustine office of Bartolome Benitez y Galvez, the royal treasurer of East Florida, to share some information he heard from a Lower Creek Indian named Yaolaychi about a deposit of shiny rocks [...]. Although Spain’s main goal in Florida was to protect the sea-lanes of the Gulf of Mexico and forestall U.S. intrusions into New Spain, Benitez expected the discovery of a silver or mercury mine could bring an influx of settler, money, and prestige to a province with a reputation for stagnation. [...] Although Bourbon Spain funded many massive scientific expeditions, Benitez was obliged to finance this journey out of his own pocket [...]. Governor Zespedes gave him permission to explore the mine and provided passports for the expedition members [...].

At one level, Yaolaychi’s tale was similar to the adventure stories about monstrous animals attacking humans [...]. More specifically, twentieth-century [researchers] have recorded Hitchiti, Muskogee, Yuchi, and Sminole tales -- collectively known as Monster Lizard stories -- in which the scenario, action, and beast correspond with Yaolaychi’s narrative about Achuguilipalasco. [...] Yaolaychi’s story may have expressed southeastern Indians’ interpretations of the relationship among precious metals, dangerous powers, and European colonialism. [...] These narratives were prevalent in northern Florida, often centering on the ruins of the Spanish mission of San Luis de Apalachee. As late as 1824, one Floridian writer described how “the Indians have preserved a [...] story, which keeps them at an awful distance from San Louis [...].” Stories such as this expressed enduring associations among disease, death, Spaniards, and precious metals. [...] Yaolaychi’s skill as a storyteller, the settings in which he told these stories, and the congruencies among the three expedition members’ understanding of nature all enhanced the Monster Lizard story’s capacity to influence how the commissioners pursued and narrated knowledge. [...]

Benitiez also looked to Saint Augustine’s small learned community to corroborate his claims about the minerals and the beast. He hosted a kind of scientific conference [...]. For a small and isolated city, Saint Augustine was home to an impressive multinational community of learned men. The group that witnessed the mineralogical tests and discussed the monster included the city’s captain of engineers, a physician at the royal hospital, a Cuban pharmacist, a “very knowledgeable” Swiss planter, an Irish “Professor of Chemistry,” and, for better or worse, “many other people who happened to enter the house.” [...]

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Information about valuable minerals was potentially critical to Indian-Spanish power dynamics. Zespedes’s overriding concern in early 1790 was maintaining good relations with powerful Creek leaders and, both before and after the expedition, he tried to ensure that the travelers were not violating Indian territorial boundaries. [...] Powerful Creeks such as Alexander McGillivray would have taken the presence of mines in their territory -- and a betrayal of their existence to Spanish or U.S. officials -- very seriously. [...] It is possible that [...] leaders would have killed Yaolaychi for revealing the location of a mineral deposit [...]. Writing from Creek country in 1801, southeastern explorer John D. DeLacy told Thomas Jefferson that “it is said and asserted as fact that there is a gold mine in this Country [and that] an Indian took a small quantity of the ore to the Spaniards at Augustine [...].” However, when news of this transaction came “to the ears of the Head of the Nation they [...] decreed the death of any person that should ever attempt to [...] open the mine or take carry or give any of the ores to any white persons whatsoever but especially to the Spaniards whose inordinate thirst for it they considered as the sources of all the evils [...].”

The governor [Zespedes] thought [...] that Benitez’s experiments and his own interrogations had indicated the material validity of mineralogical findings [...]. But Zespedes did understand that the actual collection of minerals at the spring had to be approached within a larger geopolitical context. [...] He thus denied Benitez’s request to send a second expedition to the site because violating the boundaries of the Creek’s hunting grounds could alienate Spain’s Creek allies [...]. The governor worried that exploring the spring a second time might “result, on their part, in zeals, anxieties, and maybe an open break” between Indians, Anglo-Americans, and Spaniards in the Floridas. As Helen Hornbeck Tanner has argued, “the two vital concerns for a governor of East Florida” in early 1790 were forestalling Anglo-American incursions and maintaining peace with the region’s Indian groups [...] He thus decided that “it is my invariable ruling that, even if the mine really were of mercury, or gold, far from being in the interest of the royal service, it would actually be exceedingly harmful to it.”

Just like the “Head of the Nation” in the Creek story that John D. DeLacy recorded in 1801, Zespedes proclaimed the mine off-limits. Though the expedition revealed some of the congruencies between Native and European approached to nature, Spanish and Creek leaders’ reactions to the mineral knowledge it generated also suggest key similarities in their approaches to regional geopolitics [...].

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Unlike officials who sought to discover natural resources that would aid Spain in its global competition with other European empires, Spanish leaders in the borderlands sometimes avoided exploring potential sources of wealth because they aimed to maintain the geopolitical balance, not to gain ascendancy. Accruing natural knowledge did foster European power and wealth in many places [...]. But studying science in imperial borderlands suggests that colonizers were not necessarily [always] interested in or capable of producing power-promoting knowledge [...]. Power -- both Zespedes’s authority as governor and the exigencies of regional geopolitics -- determined what naturalists in Madrid and elsewhere would learn about Florida’s nature: no evidence suggests that Spanish accounts of the expedition [...] traveled to Europe. [...]

The Monster Lizard story has proven even more resilient [...]. Within the Americas, [...] Indian storytelling may have circulated colonial knowledge -- and the social and historical contexts in which it was embedded -- more effectively than European texts.

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All text above by: Cameron B. Strang. “Indian Storytelling, Scientific Knowledge, and Power in the Florida Borderlands.” The William and Mary Quarterly Vol. 70 No. 4. October 2013. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Presented here for criticism, teaching, commentary purposes.]

#ecology #indigenous #landscape #abolition #multispecies #imperial #colonial

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nightshade-minho · 4 years ago

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-Embers- (1)

warnings: suggestive, future smut, themes of death

wc: 5.3k

teaser

White specks of paint, scattered across an inky sky - they truly were beautiful. You adjusted yourself on the grassy hill, eyes closing as you tried to calm your nerves. Sighing, you ran your hand over crimson scales, trying to ignore the blinding lights of your village in the distance.

“The stars are beautiful tonight.”

You wished you could stay here forever. Where the only sounds that grace your ears are the deep rumbling snores of the enormous draconian creature you're curled up against. It's a comforting sound, and yet you knew you were going to have to leave soon. Your father would be absolutely enraged if you were late to such an important event- in fact, you were sure he’d have absolutely no qualms killing you in front of the entire village and crowning a broomstick as his heir instead.

Perhaps that's why you delayed the inevitable for a little longer, nuzzling your head against the dragon's hide. Your heart was pounding in your chest as you observed your bustling village from above, frantically getting ready for the festival and the welcoming. People were decorating their houses, painting murals onto their walls and making sure everything was perfect for the guests that would arrive tonight.

The streets were lit up with lanterns, and the people milling about outside their houses were dressed up in their best. The excitement in the atmosphere was palpable, and you could almost feel it from atop the hill.

Sighing, you looked to the side, your eyes meeting enormous yellow ones.

“Aeracus...I know what you’re thinking.” You sighed and curled up your knees to your chest. “And you’re right. I’m nervous, but also excited. I can’t believe we’re going to be seeing him again after all these years. Can you?”

The dragon slowly shook his head from side to side, and you chuckled. “Do you think he’s changed? Or do you think he’s still a feline-obsessed asshole?” You smiled, his laughter ringing in your ears as you reminisced.

Slowly though, the good memories bled into terrible ones. Loss and pain, mingling in your heart and taking over your emotions. The smile disappeared from your face as you remembered what had happened. The reason he left. The reason you weren’t allowed to participate in the championships that were to be a part of the festival’s celebrations...the reason the whole village considered you an outcast, despite being the chief’s daughter.

You swallowed the lump in your throat, pushing your hair back as you slowly stood up, dusting off your tunic. You pressed a kiss to the dragon’s neck, sighing.

“I’m going to go, Aeracus. Honestly, you should be grateful you don’t have to partake in these events.”

The dragon let out a disapproving rumble at that, and your face softened. That was a low blow. After all, it wasn’t his fault that he was forced to to refrain from joining his fellow dragons in the games. No, the blame was to be shared between you and Minho.

The felicity in your heart was intertwined with a faint sense of lingering sorrow. It happened so many years ago, and yet the echoes were still fresh in your mind...

You couldn’t deny that you were desperate to see him again. In fact, saying you were desperate would probably be an understatement. You were thrilled, electrified- and yet, oh so anxious.

You clenched your fists, taking in a deep breath and starting to descend the hill. You’d put it off for long enough.

***

“Children, listen carefully, now.”

The boy next to you didn’t heed the elder’s warning, continuing to draw on the back of his hand.

“Minho! Pay attention, or I will have to call your father.”

Minho looked up, scowling. He placed the chalk down and pursed his lips, directing his attention towards the clay figurines that were laid out in front of the elderly woman. You, as well as the 10 other kids in the cottage, were fascinated by the story being told. The woman was teaching you about your culture, the information you needed to know regarding the upcoming ceremony. It was important, and yet Minho couldn’t bring himself to care. He liked cats more than dragons anyway.

“As I was saying.” She cleared her throat, resuming her lesson.

“Now that you children are 13, you are no longer babies. Certain things are expected of you. You have embarked on your journey to adulthood...and thus, there are certain things you must know. The elements of our village, for one.”

She gestured to the figurines on the dirt floor in front of her. “As you all already know, there are four elements.” She pointed to a spiky pyramid, and then to a smooth sphere. “Ember, Aqua...” Her fingers moved to the next pair- a rough cube and a glassy cone. “...Terra and Aer. These are the symbols of the elements. Of course, you all have already seen the life-sized versions of these in our square.”

Eager nods, making her continue with a pleased smile.

“Every dragon on this planet has a corresponding element that they have control over. They possess immense power, and the ability to command these elements.”

Minho raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Hm, maybe this wasn’t as lame as he’d thought it would be..

“I’m sure you children have seen your parents, older friends and relatives with their dragons.” There was a chorus of agreement, and the woman nodded.

“Well, from next week onwards, you will each have your own dragons. Through the ceremony, you will all be assigned a hatchling, with which you will spend the rest of your life.”

Minho hummed in curiosity as the woman dismissed the class. “Good luck, loves. Remember, there will be a few more classes to brief you further.”

The others started filing out slowly as you turned to Minho. “Isn’t this exciting?” You tilted your head, running your eyes over the figurines. “Since my family are all fire elementals, do you think I’ll get an ember dragon?”

“I don’t think it works that way. My father said it doesn’t matter what family you come from, the dragon you get matched with can be of any element, apparently. Though it hasn’t ever happened yet.” He shrugged.

“Really?”

“Yeah.” He yawned. “I already knew everything she said. I could have used this valuable time for something else.” He was lying, to be honest. The only thing he knew about dragons was what he’d just told you.

“Like what?”

“I don’t know. Do you wanna go to the lake?”

You grinned. “Sure, let’s!” You nodded in agreement as Minho stood up eagerly, grabbing your hand and pulling you out of the cottage. You giggled as he dragged you. “Hey, slow down! Also, we can’t be there for long. We’ve got to be home for that joint dinner, or our fathers will be very mad.”

“Eh, they’d barely notice if we’re gone. When discussing village matters, they don’t give a fuck about their own children, even.” He muttered bitterly.

“Well...that is true.” You sighed as Minho pulled you all the way to the lake, weaving past the villagers, even bumping into some of them. A few of them frowned and made shouts of displeasure, while others didn’t seem to mind. Or maybe they did, and was just too afraid to voice their anger towards the chiefs’ children.

The cottages start becoming more sparse, the trees more tightly clustered. Minho held your hand tightly as you made your way through the woods. Finally, the two of you reached the clearing.

Letting go of your hand gently, Minho sat at the edge of the lake, beckoning you over to sit next to him.

“I wish this place wasn’t so far away from the village.” You sighed, legs aching as you flopped down onto the grass.

Minho shook his head slowly, his fingers fiddling with a tiny dandelion he’d pulled out. “The further away, the better.” He grumbled, blowing on it and watching as the seeds floated in the breeze.

You sighed. There it was, again. You knew better than to oppose him, so you hummed, scooting a little closer and placing your hand on top of his. “I know you want to leave this place. I know you want to...to explore the world. I just want you to know that whatever you decide to do, I’ll be by your side.” You said honestly.

Minho looked up at you. “Really?”

“Yeah.”

He felt like there was a lump in his throat. Minho knew how much this village and its culture meant to you. You were really willing to do that for him? Leave, and never come back?

“Listen here, Miss L/n.” He turned to you, inhaling as he pressed a kiss to your forehead, his lips soft as they brushed against your skin. You blushed, staring at him with wide eyes as he spoke.

“I’m the one who’s going to be making the sacrifices here, alright? I’m older than you, remember? I call the shots.” He chuckled, booping your nose.

“I love you so much, star.”

You cringed at the nickname, shoving him away. ��Stop calling me that, you sound like a character in one of Mr Yang’s cheesy novels.”

He smirked at that. “I’ll never stop calling you that. You’re my star, cause you light up my world and guide me when everything’s dark.” He reasoned, laughing and throwing his head back as he watched you wrinkle your nose in disgust, looking a little like a bunny.

Humming, Minho lay back on the grass, and you followed suit after a minute of hesitation.

“I don’t mind you calling me that. Just don’t do it in front of people.”

“Okay, I won’t. It’s just us all the time, anyway...”

The two of you stared up at the sky, listening to the calm sounds of frogs ribbiting, birds chirping, and the splashing sounds of the fish in the lake. Above it all though, was the sound of your heart, beating persistently as Minho’s fingers creeped closer to yours, intertwining your hands.

“It’s always us...”

***

Your father had explained to you that since your family consisted entirely of ember elementals, your dragon would be of the same kind as well. This went against what Minho had told you before, and your mind was swimming with all the different information you were receiving.

“But...Minho said it doesn’t work that way.”

He sat on his armchair, chewing on a chicken leg as he raised an eyebrow. “Really? Well, he’s wrong.” He sighed, shaking his head. “It’s never happened in centuries, and it’s not gonna happen now. You’re an Ember, through and through.”

You purse your lips. “Well, you’re always right, Father.”

He nodded, not picking up on the snark your sentence was dripping with. "The bond you share with your dragon is one that can never be replicated. You choose it, and it chooses you. It is truly a beautiful process, a spectacle to behold. Every single villager will be watching, so you better hold your head high. Make me proud."

You were about to reply when you heard a knock on your door. Glancing at your father for permission, you stood up. heading through the long hallway to open the front door.

“Minho?”

You looked at him, tilting your head at his troubled expression. “What’s up?

“I came to give you these.” He said softly, looking around before showing you the fiery petals in his palms. “I borrowed a herbology book from the library a few months ago, and learnt how to grow these. Ignis flowers. They’re symbols of good luck, apparently.”

He took your hand, placing the petals on your palm. “They reminded me of you.”

Your eyes widened slowly. “Wow...Minho, I didn’t get you anything...” You said guiltily, humming when Minho gently pulled you into a hug.

“You don’t have to. I’ve got to go home, now. See you tomorrow!”

You nodded, the petals safe in your hands as he left hurriedly. You watched him head to his house, opposite to yours.

After he left, you were about to head to bed when your father asked you to stay back. Confused, you went over to sit in front of him, tilting your head in confusion.

“Who was at the door?”

“It was just Minho.” You shrugged, eyeing your father as he groaned, massaging his forehead. He looked like he was contemplating something, his wrinkles seeming especially prominent.

"Child, be wary of your...friend."

"Friend...?" You knew he meant Minho. You'd never heard him address him in that manner though - void of affection.

Minho's father and yours were co-chiefs of the village, best friends since birth. He’d always treated Minho like his own son. What had brought on this sudden hostility?

He noticed the expression on your face, sighing and patting your shoulder. "I'm just asking you to be careful, dear. There is talk of the Aer elementals gaining power at an accelerated rate these days. Aer dragons are growing up to be stronger, even more so than our Ember ones. It's truly a strange phenomenon. I do not want to be one of these people who is suspicious of everything and everyone...but both the kid and his father have changed. Even I can't deny that."

You swallowed at his words, watching as his face drifted off, deep in thought. You'd heard of it too- hushed whispers claiming that a single chief would be preferable for the village. And if your father's hunch was right...no, you didn't want to think about it.

Minho wouldn't ever betray you. You'd known him since before you could talk. you’d build up a lot of trust in each other over the years. There was no one else you knew as well. If you couldn’t trust him, who could?

No. He would never hurt you. You were sure of it.

***

The whole village was buzzing for weeks after the ceremony took place. They simply couldn't understand what had happened. It was unprecedented- and the news spread like wildfire.

You were matched with a majestic Aer creature, and Minho a beautiful crimson beast of Ember. Mistakes weren't possible- the process was never questioned- but that didn't mean people weren't bewildered.

For centuries, no one had managed to match with a dragon that controlled an element that differed from theirs.

Neither of you could understand why your fathers and the villagers were so perplexed, though. Was it really as big of a deal as they made it seem?

"I don't get it. Why is it such a humongous problem? They’re just dragons. What’s the need for all this drama?" Minho rolled his eyes as he spoke.

You stroked your dragon's neck slowly as you watched him, huffing and ranting away. ‘Just dragons.’ There was a part of you that understood all the hubbub. The people loved gossip- especially if it involved the chiefs.

"It really isn't. They're both so beautiful, I don't really care what element they control."

You looked at your dragon, curled next to you. You wouldn't admit it, but she looked a little too beautiful- almost to the point where it intimidated you.

Translucent, white scales that reflected rainbows of light...long, beautiful almond shaped eyes that were the color of the ocean. She was larger and brighter than Minho's dragon as well. Your father had been right...the Aer dragons were evolving quicker, somehow.

She was quiet and regal, her sleek body elegant and her demeanor refined. You didn’t really have much in common, to be honest. You’d named her Caeli- a name that wasn’t really all that creative, but it would do. Besides, it seemed to fit.

Minho looked at you, sighing slowly. "Aeracus seems hungry. Father will be expecting me soon anyway, I think I'll go home now, Y/n."

"Bye, Min."

He shot you a dashing grin before standing up, climbing his dragon.

As they left, a great whoosh of wind rustling your hair, you looked up at your dragon. She was staring at the water, her eyes narrowed.

You were starting to feel a little worried. You couldn’t exactly...hear her thoughts. She seemed too closed off, barely even looking at you as she blankly watched the frogs jump from one lilypad to the other. You didn’t feel that special bond everyone had been talking about for years, insisting to you that it would be a connection so profound you wouldn’t be able to live without it.

Did she not like you? You looked so average next to her ethereality, drab and plain as opposed to her stunning beauty.

You couldn’t blame her, really.

***

When Minho stood next to your dragon, the sight somehow made more sense. He was beautiful, and so was the creature next to him. They fit together perfectly.

Aeracus on the other hand, was slightly more average. He was majestic as well, but not on the same level as Caeli. You felt more at home riding him, somehow. Like...he was the one that was meant to be yours.

Of course, you wouldn’t ever tell anyone about this. It could be considered infidelity, even. Your father was disappointed enough in you as it was. Four years of training with Caeli, and you still weren’t able to channel her power into...anything. She just wouldn’t co-operate.

"There you go..." He finished slipping the harness onto Caeli, dusting off his hands as he came back over to you, giggling as Aeracus rubbed his big head against your side.

Minho raised his eyebrows at the display of affection. Aeracus was never that amicable to him. Yes, he listened to him...but that was about it. And yet, to you...he always noticed how the two of you seemed to have some sort of connection. He’d mentioned this to his father once, only to be called ridiculous.

Then again, he couldn’t blame the dragon for having a soft spot for you. Who wouldn’t?

“Hey...” He looked down at you as the dragon pulled away, ambling off to Caeli’s side. You glanced up slowly when Minho cleared his throat, leaning in a little as his fingers ran through your tresses. Your cheeks flushed, eyes widening slightly at his touch.

"A leaf. In your hair." He mumbled, throwing said leaf onto the ground as he stared into your eyes.

Your heart was thudding loudly in your chest as your gaze ran over his features, so close to your face. Fuck, he was so deathly handsome, even more so now that you were both almost adults. Puberty had treated him well.

A little too well.

The girls in the square swooning over Minho became a regular occurrence now. You couldn't even seem to go anywhere with your best friend, without having a mob of fangirls following closely.

When he was this close to you, it became overwhelmingly evident why his fans were so enamored by him. Lee Minho really was beautiful.

"Careful, a fly might make its nest in your mouth." He chuckled. "What's up, kitten? You look on edge."

That was the other thing. His latest habit of calling you pet names- the likes of which included princess and kitten- had come out of nowhere. He really seemed to enjoy making you blush. At times like this, you wished he would have just stuck with ‘star’.

“Nothing.” You stuttered, avoiding his eyes and choosing to focus your stare on the ground. Minho wasn’t in the mood for your shyness, though. He placed his finger under your chin, tilting your face up to look at him.

“You sure about that? Is there a reason you look so flustered right now?” He breathed, leaning in closer until your noses were brushing.

Oh, fuck you, Lee.

You'd always thought Minho was attractive. Of course. You'd be blind not to notice. And yet, at this proximity, you felt like you haven’t ever truly appreciated just how fucking hot the man in front of you was.

And so you did something you never thought you’d have the courage to do.

Leaning in, you closed the distance between the two of you, lips crashing against his. To Minho’s credit, he wasn’t all that shocked. Smirking against you, his arms wrapped around your waist as he pulled you closer, gluing your body to his.

Backing you up against a tree, Minho was quick to lift your thigh, slotting your hips together as he ran his tongue over your bottom lip.

A groan left you as he slid his hand under your shirt, pulling away to stare at you, the sight of your swollen lips affecting him in ways he couldn’t quite describe.

“What...what did we just-”

He shut you up with another kiss, rougher than the last one. Breathless pecks, desperately claiming you with his lips as he pressed himself against you.

“Just go with the flow, baby.”

And so you did.

***

As you carefully made your way down, your mind was racing with a million thoughts. The thought of seeing your boyfriend again after so many years scared you as much as it excited you. After all...it wasn’t like you parted on good terms.

You still remembered the heartbroken look on his face, the last time you saw him. You couldn’t tell him that you’d tried everything, tried your best to reason with your father who simply refused to budge. He’d expected you to do something more...but what?

It wasn’t his fault. It was a fucking accident, and yet he’d had to take the blame.

Deep down, though, you knew what your father’s real intentions had been when he banished Minho and his father from the village. Of course, Caeli’s death had shaken him- the entire village had been in a state of shock. The death of a dragon was the most tragic event that could possibly befall a village. And when said dragon happened to belong to the chief’s daughter? Shattering.

At the end of the day though, it was a convenient incident...one that happened to take place just as your father’s status was being questioned. A blessing in disguise, for him.

“It’s okay, my child. Yes, you suffered a great loss, but I know you weren’t that close to it. We must move on. On the bright side, you can focus on your studies now! Isn’t that what you’ve always wanted to do?”

You scoffed, his words repeating themselves in your brain. Bullshit. There was no bright side, nor would there ever be one without Minho in your life.

***

“There you are. Where were you?"

"I...was with Aeracus." You didn't see the point in lying. Your brain was too tired to come up with a believable fabrication anyway.

As expected, his face screwed up in anger as he glared, standing up.

"Why?" He hissed. "Let me remind you he is not your dragon. How many times have I told you not to get too close to it?"

"Aeracus and I have a bond." You mumbled.

"No. You don't. A bond is forged between a dragon and its owner by forces beyond our control. This measly 'friendship', if you can even call it that, is trivial. At the end of the day, it doesn't really belong to you. It belongs to the boy who betrayed you."

You couldn't bring yourself to react any more. Your father was old-fashioned, his opinions set in stone. ‘Betrayed’. You wanted to scoff.

You turned around without a word, heading for your room. There was no energy left in your body, yet the exhaustion was overpowered by your emotions.

"Y/n, wait."

You stopped, turning and looking at him. "What?"

"Your maids are waiting to dress you. Don't argue with them. You are to wear the outfit I picked out for you. Today's dinner is extremely important." He paused. "And...what I said before still stands. The dragon won't hesitate to betray you, especially now that his true owner is coming back. Be...be careful." Your father said quietly, his face softening.

You sighed. "I will be."

"Good."

He dismissed you. You heaved a sigh of relief under your breath and headed out, opening the door to your own room.

You would never admit this to your father, but as nervous as you were, you were secretly looking forward to the dinner. To see him again.

If you closed your eyes and immersed yourself deep enough into your imagination, you could still feel his touch ghosting along your thighs. His soft lips, pressing against yours.

You missed his voice, his tight hugs...you missed everything about him. You'd only ever felt safe in his arms.

The loneliness and pain had consumed you when he left. Maybe that's why you latched on to Aeracus, the last remnant of Minho in this village that seemed so much more dreary without his presence.

"Miss Y/n! We have no time to lose." Your head maid scurried about your room with two others, spreading out your dress on your bed. One of the maids- Sylvia, you think her name was- snuck up behind you and began undressing you. Yes, you were used to this, but the layer of urgency in the atmosphere was a lot more profound tonight.

The entire village was on edge, and you couldn’t really blame them. The first Elemental Championships, and they were being hosted at your village. The exhilaration was understandable...you couldn't bring yourself to feel the same way, though. Maybe if you were actually participating, you’d feel different.

You looked at the dress the maid was holding onto, initially without much interest...but your eyes widened when it came into view.

It was beautiful, yet simple...the color of spun gold, with tiny rubies clustered at the bodice. The sleeves fell of the shoulders delicately, and the material was diaphanous, the texture rich.

“Wow....Sylvia, you made this?”

“I did. It took me a year.” She smiled widely, your grin satisfying her. “Do you really like it, Miss Y/n?” There was a hopeful lilt to her voice, and your grin grew wider as they started helping you into it.

“Like it? I love it! You’ve really outdone yourself this time.”

She nodded in content, lacing up the back as the other maids began on your makeup. Usually, you didn’t like being treated as a doll, your servants fussing over you and your appearance. Today, though...

You could barely believe the reflection you were seeing in the mirror belonged to you. You'd never felt so glamorous before.

“You look beautiful, Miss.” Sylvia said softly, adjusting your sleeves.

You couldn’t wait for Minho to see you in this dress.

“Ann?” Another servant’s head appeared around the corner. “It’s time. They will arrive any moment now.”

A flurry of anxious noises and exclamations filled the room as they worked on you faster. You took a deep breath in, your mind blank and full of thoughts at the same time.

***

You stood next to your father, hands clasped in front of you. Surreptitiously, you raised your hand to your forehead, wiping away a few drops of perspiration. It was happening, you were finally going to see Minho again. And if your father successfully manages to make amends with his- fuck, you were grinning just thinking about it.

The villagers standing behind you were all dressed in their best as well, and the lanterns shone brightly, washing over everything. The air was sparkling, the atmosphere charged with electricity. Everyone had their eyes trained on the sky, waiting for Minho’s people. The two other villages were to come tomorrow, according to the letters.

Four villages. All competing in the championship yours was hosting. It was nerve-wracking, the amount of people who would be crammed into your village, which was big enough, really- possibly the largest in the country- it still stressed you out, though. Since there weren’t enough guest houses to fit everyone, a lot of the visitors would be staying with your villagers, the chiefs and their families staying at your house. You were keenly aware of the fact that this meant Minho would be in the same living quarters as you. Your heart pounded at the prospect.

Later in the night, you were planning to sneak into his room, since you obviously wouldn’t be allowed to talk to him during the dinner. At least, you wouldn’t be able to communicate the things you so desperately wanted to say to him. Every part of you tingled as you thought about what you’d say to him.

You felt light as a feather as you stared at the starry sky, eyes widening slightly as you spotted the thousands of dots in the distance, flying closer. Anticipation and exhilaration mingled in you as you waited for them to arrive. Just the thought of feeling Minho pressed up against you again, whispering in your ear how much he loved you...it made you want to cry, almost. You’d waited for this moment for too long.

The conch shell was blown as they reached the edge of the forest. More than a thousand dragons, covered in finery, just like their riders.

Hmm. There were a lot more than you expected. You’d only been anticipating about a hundred, since it was only Minho’s village that was coming tonight. Or so you’d thought...

You turned your head to look at your father, letting the confusion show on your face. Noticing your expression, he shrugged. “It looks like all three decided to come tonight.”

You frowned, looking back at the dragons that were at the border now, preparing for landing. That was weird.

You observed the dragons that had landed, your eyebrows furrowing. Huh.

The three dragons at the front were a lot bulkier than the ones in the back. Darker colors, almost hulking muscles and narrow eyes. They looked like no dragon you’d ever seen before. The sight was almost unsettling. You felt a faint sense of dread spreading over you, a feeling you tried to push away as your eyes searched each dragon’s back for Minho.

You recognized Minho’s father right away. He was at the very front, along with two other old men on a green and blue dragon respectively, that you realized were the chiefs of the other two villages. Surprisingly though, Minho wasn’t sat behind him. You’d assumed it to be that way...after all, Minho’s dragon was still here. So where was he? Your eyebrows furrowed, not wanting to assume the worst right away. You wildly looked over them all, craning your neck slightly. You didn’t want to seem too eager, but it’s not like you could help yourself. Could anyone blame you? Here you were, about to meet the first and only person you’d ever fallen in love with, after years of yearning and loneliness.

As your father stepped forward, a smile on his face to greet the chiefs, you finally saw him.

For a minute, it was like you couldn’t breathe. He looked as beautiful as ever, his feline eyes twinkling, his dark hair exposing part of his smooth forehead. His hands gripped the reins so tightly his knuckles were white, and the way he sat on his dragon was regal, his expression confident and filled with determination. He was older, and somehow even more handsome than the last time you saw him. You didn’t even think that was possible.

You swallowed, your breath catching in your throat as his eyes finally met yours.

It was like time had ceased for a minute. You smiled slowly, happy tears pricking at your eyes as you took in his face.

He didn’t smile back.

And that’s when you noticed the pale arms wrapped around his waist. Confused, you watched as the chiefs dismounted the dragons, along with their heirs. Minho alighted from the dragon, helping down the woman who had been holding onto him. He held her hands gently, leaning in to press a kiss to her forehead.

You felt like your whole world had collapsed, bile rising in your throat as you watched her giggle. You noticed she was dressed in blue, her clothing that of a heiress. As they approached, your eyes fell on the sparkling ring on her finger...one that matched Minho’s.

When his eyes looked into yours again, they were cold, just like your heart.

#minho smut #lee know smut #minho series #minho angst #lee know angst #minho x reader #minho imagines #skz imagines #stray kids imagines #skz smut #stray kids smut #lee know x reader #kpop smut #kpop angst #kpop imagines #skz series

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josefavomjaaga · 4 years ago

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(Painting - Antoine Gros: Eugène Beauharnais, aged 15) And yet another Egyptian tale from Eugène de Beauharnais’ memoir fragments. This time, it’s a real harem story. It takes place shortly after the French had won the »Battle of the Pyramids« and occupied Cairo. Mourad-Bey, one of the two Mameluk leaders, had fled the city, but his harem, apparently consisting of several dozends of women, had remained behind, like most families of the Mameluks. As Eugène puts it:

»Quelques jours après notre arrivée au Caire, je fus envoyé chez la femme de Mourad-Bey, que ce chef de mamelukes y avait laissée avec tout son sérail. Voici à quelle occasion. Des officiers français, et entre autres le chef d’escadron Rapp, avaient reçu des coups de poignard dans les rues du Caire; les assaillants avaient échappé à nos pursuites, en sorte qu’on pouvait craindre qu’il n’y eût des mamelukes cachés dans cette ville. Dans cette supposition, la maison de Mourad-Bey devait paraître plus suspecte que toute autre. En conséquence, je me rendis chez sa femme, par ordre du général en chef, pour l’assurer que sa maison et ses biens seraient respectés, et qu’elle pourrait compter sur la protection des français, pourvu qu’elle s’abstint de toute communication avec l’ennemi et qu’elle promit de ne donner aucun asile aux malintentionnés. Madame Mourad-Bey me reçut avec la plus grande distinction et me servit elle-même le café. On a imprimé quelque part qu’elle me fit cadeau d’un diamant d’une grande valeur, mais c’est une erreur. Elle protesta de son exactitude à remplir les conditions qu’on exigeait d’elle, et, pour me convaincre que sa maison ne recélait aucune personne suspecte, elle voulut absolument que je la parcourusse avec elle. Nous traversâmes, au rez-de-chaussée, de vastes pièces où se trouvaient empilés une grande quantité de coussins et de carreaux de toute espèce, et je dois avouer franchement que je n’étais pas sans une sorte d’inquiétude, craignant de voir sortir à l’improviste de dessous ces coussins quelqu’un de ces mameluks habiles dans l’art de couper les têtes.

Le premier étage était occupé par les femmes composant le harem de Mourad-Bey; elles y étaient distribuées comme par chambrée. C’est là qu’une scène grotesque et fort embarrassante m’attendait. A l’aspect d’un être aussi nouveau que je l’étais pour la plupart de ces femmes, elles manifestent la curiosité la plus importune; elles m’entourent, me pressent, veulent toucher et défaire mes vêtements, et poussent leurs attouchements jusqu’au dernier degré d’indécence. En vain Madame Mourad-Bey leur ordonne de se rétirer; en vain je les repousse moi-même assez rudement; il fallut appeler les eunuques, qui, accourant à la voix de leur maîtresse, frappent à coups redoublés de nerf de boeuf sur ces forcenées et les obligent enfin à lâcher prise.«

***

A couple of days after our arrival in Cairo, I was sent to the wife of Murad-Bey, left here by this chief of the Mamluks with all his seraglio. This is why I was sent. French officers, and among others the squadron leader Rapp, had been stabbed in the streets of Cairo; the assailants had escaped our pursuits, so that it was to be feared that there were Mamelukes hidden in this city. On this supposition, the house of Murad-Bey must have seemed more suspicious than any other. Consequently, I went to his wife's house, by order of the General-in-Chief, to assure her that her household and property would be respected, and that she could count on the protection of the French, provided that she abstained from all communication with the enemy and promised not to give any shelter to the ill-intentioned. Madame Mourad-Bey received me with the greatest distinction and herself served me coffee. It has been printed somewhere that she presented me with a diamond of great value, but this is a mistake. She protested that she had fulfilled the conditions required of her, and to convince me that there were no suspicious persons in her house, she insisted that I should go through it with her. On the ground floor we passed through spacious rooms, where there were piles of cushions and tiles of all kinds, and I have to confess frankly that I was not without a sort of anxiety, fearing that from beneath these cushions one of those Mamelukes skilled in the art of cutting off heads might suddenly emerge.

The first floor was occupied by the women who made up the harem of Murad-Bey; they were distributed there as if by room. It was there that a grotesque and highly embarrassing scene awaited me. At the appearance of a being as new as I was to most of these women, they manifested the most importunate curiosity; they surrounded me, pressed me, wanted to touch and undo my clothes, and pushed their touching to the last degree of indecency. In vain Madame Mourad-Bey ordered them to withdraw; in vain I myself repulsed them rather roughly; the eunuchs had to be called, who, running to the voice of their mistress, struck these madwomen with repeated blows of pizzles and finally forced them to let go. (DuCasse, Mémoires et Correspondance politique et militaire du Prince Eugène, tome 1)

On first reading this, I was utterly convinced Eugène had made that part up. Just to spice up his memoirs – after all, what’s a story about Egypt without at least a little harem story, right? But since then I have learned that Napoleon himself, writing about the Egyptian campaign on Saint Helena, mentioned that he had sent Eugène to Mourad-Bey’s wife, adding:

He sent to her Capitaine Beauharnais [sic; in truth Eugène was seventeen at the time and only a sub-lieutenant], his stepson, to convey his greetings and to give her a firman [document] guaranteeing her the possession of all her villages. She was very rich [...] and the harem over which she ruled consisted of fifty women from all countries and of all colours. The officers of the palace had a lot of trouble keeping them back; all the slaves wanted to see the young and handsome Frenchman.

I assume he was still grinning inwardly at the memory of his 17-year-old stepson, somewhat disconcerted and dishevelled, reporting back to headquarters that day…

And I love the idea of Eugène nervously checking every room for hidden assassins, only to be assaulted in a very different way.

#eugene beauharnais #egypt #mourad-bey #jean rapp #egyptian campaign #napoleon #eugene de beauharnais

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