#Decorative Coatings Trends

[marc--chilton]

part me agrees that house someone's proper pronouns to more accurately insult them, but i also sometimes think he would find neopronouns ridiculous while also taking immense joy in changing his pronouns daily entirely because he's not been annoying this way before and like he Just Can. he just comes in to work with a sticker nametag thing that's like "my pronouns are [big text] ___ / ___" and he fills in the blanks at random. even after it stops being as funny he keeps using them because he bought a pack of 50 of them and doesn't want to waste them

[coldpenguintaco]

Global Decorative Coatings Market Forecast to 2027: Trends in Resin Type, Technology, and Regional Growth

The global decorative coatings market size is projected to grow from USD 82.0 billion in 2022 to USD 98.9 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 3.8%. The global decorative coatings market is witnessing high growth with rising demand from the Asia Pacific region, especially, from China and India. The demand for decorative coatings is increasing due to increasing demand from end-use industries. Green,…

[pujarathod]

USD 100.60 Billion Growth In Decorative Coatings Market Size With 4.20% By 2032

Decorative Coatings Market Size Was Valued at USD 69.47 Billion in 2024 and is Projected to Reach USD 100.60 Billion by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 4.20% From 2024-2032.

Decorative Coatings Market Share, Size, Growth, Trends, & Industry Forecast Analysis Report, By Type, Application and Regional Segment Forecast, 2024-2032, provides an extensive analysis of current market dynamics and predicted future trends.

Decorative coatings, being scratch-resistant, and giving a shiny color to metallic and plastic substrates, are used in lots of applications. Decorative coatings assist in enhancing the aesthetics and provide safety to unique surfaces. It may be implemented to residential residences on roof coatings, wall paints, or deck finishes, building, trims and fittings. Furthermore, the software of the decorative coating consists of automotive indoors and outside parts, and patron products, consisting of, cell phones, computer systems, cameras, earrings and watches, toilet equipment, door handles, and eyewear

Leading Key Players Covered in Decorative Coatings market:

Asian Paints,Axalta,AkzoNobel,Berger Paints,Benjamin Moore,BASF,Cromology,Covestro,DowDuPont,DAW SE,Dunn-Edwards,DuluxGroup,RPM International,The Sherwin-Williams Company,PPG Industries,Kansai Paints,Arkema,Masco Corporation,NIPPON PAINT,NOROO Paint & Coatings,Nuplex Industries,Ring International,Tikkurila and others major players.

Request Sample Copy:

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The study report goes into great detail on the predicted trends and consumer behavior patterns that will affect the growth of the global Decorative Coatings market. The product, application, and region components of the global Decorative Coatings market research study are separated into three segments. Each division is broken down into chapters that cover numerous aspects. Year-over-year growth graphs and segment-specific drivers and restraints are included in the chapters. The research also includes government estimates for regional markets that have an impact on the global Decorative Coatings industry.

Introspective Market Research offers a comprehensive overview of the market through the analysis of key parameters such as revenue, price, competition, and promotions, as well as the study, synthesis, and summarization of data from different sources. It analyzes the leading industry drivers and shows numerous market components. The information offered is thorough, dependable, and the result of a comprehensive primary and secondary study. Introspective Market Research reports offer a comprehensive global market as well as an in-depth strategic sourcing methodology and analysis based on qualitative and quantitative research to anticipate market growth.

Segmentation of Decorative Coatings market:

By Product:

 By Application:

 If You Have Any Query of Decorative Coatings Market Report, Visit:

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Regional Analysis for COVID-19 Outbreak-Global Decorative Coatings Market:

(U.S., Canada, Mexico)

(Bulgaria, The Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Rest of Eastern Europe)

(Germany, U.K., France, Netherlands, Italy, Russia, Spain, Rest of Western Europe)

(China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, The Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Rest of APAC)

(Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Israel, South Africa)

(Brazil, Argentina, Rest of SA)

Reasons To Purchase This Market Report:

Decorative Coatings market share for key players, along with new projects and strategies that players have adopted over the past five years

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[chemicalsmaterialsnews]

Making the Walls Glow with Textured Paints

Textured paint has become a new cool in the painting and renovation industry. It is an easy, quick and affordable way to add a new look to a space. Often used as a substitute to wallpaper, it is also a prodigious solution to cover up uneven walls. Textured painting is one of the most popular trends in home décor, and with the increase in DIY cases, many diverse styles are created with a variety of colors to choose from. The most difficult part of the project is determining which ones to put to use for best results.

What are the Different Options for Textured Paints?

Textured paint comes with different options. The premix has small, gravel like particles and is coarse in appearance. It is applied to ceilings where close scrutiny is not always probable.

Another variety, coming in a bucket and is smooth and thick requiring special application tools such as putty knives or trowels. Once applied, this paint looks like stucco. Most stores sell an agent that can be acquired separately. This material can be applied to control the roughness or smoothness.

Superior paint is the need of the hour, when you want a beautiful and striking textured look.  A choice can be made between flat-finish latex and formulations with alkyd, or a sturdy synthetic resin. Latex versions are used on ceilings and don’t need a primer. Characteristically, they are durable to cover up the seams amid drywall.

What is Trending as Far as Textured Paints are Concerned?

The most popular trends in paint industry when it comes to the creation of textured finish contains metallic finishes in gold, copper, and silver. This option will allow to create a shiny, glossy look.

Textured paint can likewise be put to use for creating a faux finish. Common faux finishes comprise stone, marble, or wood, which can add texture and depth. Often this method needs tools, like sponges, special rollers, rags, trowels, and putty knives.

Visiting a paint store can become irresistible, as there are many different textures of paints to choose from.  One can always check out diverse shades before making the final decision on the subject, what sort of look is wanted since removing the texture can be a little bit tough as compared to painting of a flat paint.

Touring the model houses can always be a good choice on the part of a person, who want to be very sure regarding the choice of the textured paint. Home improvement stores have different cards showing the diverse finishes.

[agoodflyting]

Why Aziraphale is completely ridiculous in the Bastille scene (and I love him so much for it)

A while ago I posted a comparison of Aziraphale and Crowley's costumes in the 1793 flashback in Good Omens and I wanted to add these little tidbits. (Because they haunt me.)

I feel like most people know this but IF YOU DON'T, Paris in 1793 is right in the middle of something called La Terreur.

HISTORY LESSON If you didn't learn this in school the French Revolution was when, after years of escalating social tension, a coalition representing the working classes of France revolted against the monarchy, violently overthrew King Louis XVI, and declared France to be a republic.

The new National Convention governing France ruled that King Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette were traitors to the people of France because of how they had spent ridiculous amounts of money on luxuries for themselves while vast numbers of the lower classes were literally starving to death. (keep the bold in mind - wealth and class disparities were one of the key causes of the whole-ass revolution)

In 1793 (year of the flashback) both the King and Queen were executed by guillotine for their crimes.

This kicks of something called The Reign of Terror (La Terreur if you want to be French about it). A multi-year-long period in which the National Convention goes on a bloody witch hunt for any and every member of the middle or upper classes who could even possibly be considered a traitor by those same standards.

If you A) had money or privilege, and B) had ever used your money or privilege to treat yourself, you were getting executed. Over 25,000 people died during the Reign of Terror, half of them by guillotine. In fact, the iconic guillotine was used because it was physically impossible to keep up with the sheer number of people they were executing in Paris every single day.

Some things that could get you killed (actually and completely seriously) during the Reign of Terror:

Implying in any way you were sympathetic to the monarchy

Having a noble title

Having expensive things

Wearing expensive, luxurious clothes (*cough* AZIRAPHALE)

helping or sympathizing with anyone who did any of the above

a working-class person saying you were mean to them once

And then there's this bitch...

I AM NOBILITY PLEASE KILL ME So we have established that Paris in 1793 is in the middle of a frenzied, state-sanctioned bloodbath in which the working classes are massacring everyone even remotely nobility-adjacent. And in the middle of this frenzy, Aziraphale proceeds to roll up in Paris in this outfit:

How will this outfit get him killed? Let me count the ways...

First off- at this point everyone with even the tiniest shred of self- preservation is hiding the fact that they are in any way associated with the monarchy. The wealthy are straight-up abandoning mansions. The middle-class are plastering over decorations to make their house look 'poor'. The only people dressed remotely decent are the guys leading the National Convention and that's just because nobody can stop them. Everyone else is in 24/7 peasant cosplay or else they are covering themselves in cockades and sashes on to show they're pro-Republic.

Aziraphale is basically a giant shiny white sign saying I AM NOBILITY PLEASE KILL ME.

First off the lace jabot and lace cuffs are both associated with the old-school wealthy in the 1790's.

His coat is also decorated in gold braid and silver buttons, which are both marks of wealth and luxury.

He basically looks like he works for Louis XIV - not just rich, but old school rich.

We know it's his natural hair color, but hair powdering (with clay and starch) had been a big trend with the rich all throughout the 18th century to get that clean white venerable look . To someone who doesn't know it's natural, it would very much look like he's wearing hair powder.

He's wearing shades of cream and white, which are very hard to keep clean and clearly states that the wearer is rich and can afford the upkeep necessary to keep an outfit like that stain-free.

He's wearing white knee-breeches and stockings, also called culottes. See above about laundry and how rich you had to be to wear white, but also working-class men wore long pants like this:

A large faction involved in the Revolution were the Sans-Culottes (no-culottes aka we wear long pants LIKE GOOD OLD WORKING MEN). Culottes are specifically associated with everything the revolution hated. That's right - Aziraphale is literally wearing The Fanciest of Fancy Pants in a city where a group called The Men Against Fancy Pants are running around murdering people.

And then there are his shoes.

Oh god his shoes

I could do a whole post about Aziraphale's blessed little white satin pumps and how ridiculous they are.

Actually I might just do that because this is getting so long and I still have to talk about the brioche.

So I can't remember if it's in the script book or if it's from Neil Gaiman's tumblr, but it's apparently canon (?) that Aziraphale was going around in that outfit asking people where he could get crepes and brioche when he was arrested.

The Affair of the Brioches

So... uh... we've all heard the line attributed to Marie Antoinette- how when she was told that her people were starving because there was no bread left in Paris, she famously said...

It's morphed into 'let them eat cake', but the line is first recorded as, "Then let them eat brioches."

While it's unlikely she ever actually said it, the important thing is that... people in 1793 would have thought she said it. It was used as political smear to show how arrogant and out of touch the monarchy was. Marie Antoinette in particular was reviled by the people of France, who thought she was the main cause of their economic problems. That's why she was executed too.

Bread and brioche and the lines between poverty and privilege were a big thing in Revolutionary France. There was a lot of political connotation to what you ate. The French Revolution came about because of decades of suffering among the lower classes of France. It wasn't something that some dudes just decided to do. The people of Paris have been through years of the absolute worst, most oppressive poverty and starvation you can imagine, all while watching the rich throw money around crazy.

So let us recap.

Aziraphale is dressed so ridiculously posh that he looks like a joke parody of a nobleman... and he is bumbling around Paris during the Reign of Terror. Asking people. For brioche. How I imagine everyone looked at him:

It is so astoundingly tone deaf and tactless. He is basically cosplaying as Marie Antoinette and then going around asking the poor for cake.

I just.... Aziraphale. babygirl. no. oh no. You're lucky they even bothered to take you to prison. I am amazed Crowley ever let him live that down.

I have no conclusion other than this. Aziraphale is ridiculous and I love him so much.

YES YOU REALLY SHOULD SIR.

[blueiscoool]

Tiny House with Elaborate Frescoes Unearthed at Pompeii

Archaeologists have uncovered a tiny house in Pompeii that is filled with elaborate – and sometimes erotic – frescoes, further revealing the ornate way in which Romans decorated their homes.

Situated in the central district of the ancient city, the house is smaller than normal and unusually lacks the open central courtyard – known as an atrium – that is typical of Roman architecture, the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, which oversees the site, said in a statement Thursday.

This change could have occurred due to shifting trends in Roman - and particularly Pompeian - society, during the first century AD, archaeologists said.

Pompeii was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 when its buildings and thousands of inhabitants were buried beneath layers of ash and pumice. This coating perfectly preserved the city for millennia, making it one of the most important archaeological sites in the world as it offers an unprecedented insight into Roman daily life.

This latest discovery spotlights the ornate decorations that rich Romans enjoyed in their homes – several frescoes depict mythical scenes and others are decorated with plant and animal motifs on a white background.

One small square painting set against a blue-painted wall depicts intercourse between a satyr and a nymph, while another shows Hippolytus, son of the mythical Greek king Theseus, and his stepmother Phaedra who fell in love with him before killing herself when he rejected her in disgust.

One fresco likely portrays the Judgement of Paris, though it has been damaged by previous excavations, and another shows Venus, the goddess of love, and Adonis, her mortal lover.

Erotic and elaborate frescoes like this have been uncovered in Pompeii before. One house covered in erotic frescoes reopened to the public in January 2023 after being closed for 20 years while another fresco depicting an erotic scene from the Greek myth “Leda and the Swan” was uncovered in 2018.

Elsewhere in this newly excavated house, the last ritual offerings left before the eruption still remain at the household shrine, known as a lararium.

“We have archaeologists, restorers, archaeobotanists here to understand exactly how the ritual of the last sacrifice was carried out before the eruption,” said Gabriel Zuchtriegel, the park’s director, in a statement. “There are still the burnt remains of this ritual, there is the knife that was used.”

This excavation, Zuchtriegel added, “takes place under the eyes of the public” who can access the site on suspended walkways and watch archaeologists working.

By Issy Ronald and Sharon Braithwaite.

[rameshjadhav]

The Global Decorative Coatings Market: An Exclusive Study On Upcoming Trends And Growth Opportunities from 2022-2028

Global Decorative Coatings Market was valued at USD 64.1 Billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 85.9 Billion by the year 2028, at a CAGR of 4.1%.

The report Decorative Coatings Market report provides an in-depth analysis of the Decorative Coatings market, including a detailed description of market growth and size, value, and the key opportunities in the market, as well as an outline of the factors that are and will be driving the industry's growth, taking previous growth patterns into account. The global Decorative Coatings market report provides an in-depth analysis of the market state of Decorative Coatings manufacturers, including the latest facts and data, SWOT analysis, and expert views from around the world. The cost structure, market size, Decorative Coatings Sales, Gross Margin and Market Share, Price, Revenue, Size, Forecast, and Growth Rate are all calculated in the report. The income earned from the sale of This Study and technologies by various application industries is considered in the report.

The research study includes an examination of many aspects that contribute to the market's expansion. Market trends, restrictions, and drivers that have a favorable or negative influence on the market are included. This section also discusses the many businesses and applications that may have an impact on the market in the future. The information is based on both recent and historical patterns. The cost structure, market size, Decorative Coatings Sales, Gross Margin and Market Share, Price, Revenue, Size, Forecast, and Growth Rate are all calculated in the report.

Read More:https://introspectivemarketresearch.com/reports/decorative-coatings-market/

[niki-phoria]

THE FIRST TIME I'VE EVER SEEN LOVE AND THE LAST I'LL EVER NEED

pairing: jungwon x gn!reader genre: fluff word count: 409

notes: reader wears lipstick, inspo from that one tiktok trend lol, happy birthday wonie <3

you can feel the heat of jungwon’s blush against your fingertips as you cradle his face in your hands; the colour of your lipstick nearly blends into his flushed skin. “hold still,” you murmur, resisting the urge to laugh once again as jungwon continues to squirm. 

“i’m sorry,” he chuckles. his eyes shine as he smiles brightly, settling beside you once again. “it tickles.”

you turn to glance in the mirror across from you, using the opportunity to reapply the colour to your lips. little smudges against the corners of your mouth match the lipstick marks decorating jungwon’s face and neck. 

“this was your idea, you know,” you tease. jungwon’s smile grows when you wrap your arms around his shoulders, pressing yet another fleeting kiss to his cheek, just beneath his eye.

his laughter lingers in the room as you reach over to grab your phone, quickly opening your camera and propping it up against a nearby cup. jungwon shuffles across the couch next to you, gingerly wrapping his arms around your waist and propping his head against your shoulder.

you startle slightly when he leans in, pressing a chaste kiss against your neck. he moves so quickly you almost miss it entirely, had the evidence not been there in the form of a small smirk tugging at the corners of jungwon’s lips and a blush that threatens to crawl up to his ears. 

“are you ready?” he murmurs, relishing in the way your embarrassment mirrors his own.

turning to face jungwon once again, you can’t help but study his features. the universe seems to spread impossibly throughout his dark eyes. without the thick layer of makeup that usually coats his skin, you can see all of the “imperfections” that make him human. a hint of your lipstick mixes into the natural pink of his lips; the colour making them somehow even more inviting. 

a few more moments pass before you hum softly. “you’re missing something.” 

all of jungwon’s questions die on his tongue when you lean in. the soft gasp that catches in his throat makes you smirk against his skin. the stain the kiss leaves is deeper than the others; a faint mark of your lips against his skin now lingers. “there,” you murmur, nonchalantly turning back to readjust your phone’s camera angle. “now we’re ready.”

jungwon chuckles beneath his breath, leaning in to pull you into one final chaste kiss. “let’s make one of you next.”

notes (cont): mini apology fic for disappearing, i have no excuse i was just depressed lol this is not proofread so pls forgive any mistakes !!

if you enjoyed this fic, please consider leaving a like, comment, feedback, or rebloging !! and if you want to support me, check out more enha imagines or enha reactions <3

[polo-drone-055]

Polo Drone Thanksgiving Convergence

The crisp autumn morning was filled with excitement as the Thompson family prepared for their annual outing to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The kids, Emily and Jake, were bouncing with joy, eagerly anticipating the giant balloons and festive floats. Their mother, Rachel, was bustling around, making sure everyone was dressed warmly and had a hearty breakfast.

As the family gathered in the living room, waiting for everyone to be ready, Tom, the father, sat down with a cup of coffee and flipped through the stack of Black Friday ads. He was a deal hunter by nature, always looking for the best bargains. But today, something caught his eye that left him scratching his head.

“Rachel, come look at this,” Tom called out, his brow furrowed in confusion. He held up an ad showing a sleek, black, rubber-like polo shirt being promoted by several stores. “Can you believe this? It looks like everyone is selling these weird black rubber shirts this year. What’s the deal with this trend?”

Rachel chuckled as she walked over, glancing at the ad. “Oh, Tom, it’s just fashion. You know how these trends can be. Last year it was those oversized sweaters, and this year, it’s apparently rubber shirts. I guess they’re supposed to look futuristic or something.”

Tom shook his head, still not convinced. “Futuristic? They look like something out of a sci-fi movie. I just don’t get it. Who would want to wear a rubber shirt?”

Emily, who had been listening in, piped up. “Maybe they’re for superheroes, Dad! Like those suits they wear in the movies.”

Jake joined in, adding his own theory. “Or maybe they’re for people who spill a lot. You know, easier to clean up!”

Tom laughed, ruffling Jake’s hair. “You two might be onto something. But I think I’ll stick to my good old cotton polos.”

Rachel smiled and gave Tom a reassuring pat on the shoulder. “Don’t worry, honey. You don’t have to understand every trend. Let’s just focus on having a great day at the parade.”

With everyone finally ready, they grabbed their coats and headed out the door, their minds filled with thoughts of balloons, marching bands, and holiday cheer. As they walked towards the subway, Tom took one last look at the ad, still bemused by the rubber shirts, but more than ready to enjoy the day with his family.

After some hunting, they found a perfect spot along the bustling parade route. The streets were packed with excited spectators, their faces lit up with anticipation. The children, Emily and Jake, squeezed their way to the front, eager for the best view. Rachel and Tom stood just behind them, holding hands, feeling the festive energy in the air.

As the parade began, a wave of cheers and applause swept through the crowd. The grand turkey float, a staple of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, rolled into view, adorned with vibrant feathers and sparkling lights. Its massive size and intricate design captivated everyone, young and old alike.

Emily and Jake were transfixed, their eyes wide with wonder as the float passed by. They pointed out every detail, from the golden beak to the colorful autumn leaves decorating the base. Rachel smiled, soaking in their joy, while Tom couldn’t help but chuckle at their enthusiasm.

Amid the excitement, no one seemed to notice the details that Tom had found so peculiar earlier that morning. The performers on the float, who were waving and dancing energetically, wore an array of costumes, some of which included the very black rubber polo shirts he had seen in the ads. The shirts, now part of the parade's futuristic-themed segment, blended seamlessly with the other costumes and props, adding a modern twist to the traditional spectacle.

Tom leaned in towards Rachel and whispered, “Look at that, some of them are wearing those rubber shirts. I guess they found a way to make them look…interesting.”

Rachel glanced up, her eyes catching the glint of the shirts under the parade lights. She smiled and nodded. “Well, at least now we know they’re not just for superheroes or messy eaters.”

They shared a quiet laugh, the moment adding a personal touch to the grand event.

The first balloon of the parade, a towering Kung Fu Panda, floated into view, eliciting gasps and cheers from the crowd. Po, the beloved panda, soared high above the street, his enormous form swaying gently in the crisp autumn breeze. Below him, a group of clowns, dressed in colorful, traditional clown outfits, guided the balloon with expert precision. Their costumes, however, had an unexpected twist: each clown sported a black rubber polo shirt beneath their vibrant suspenders and oversized pants.

Tom noticed it first. His eyes locked onto the peculiar combination of the whimsical clown attire and the futuristic black shirts. He elbowed Rachel gently, nodding towards the clowns. “Look, they’re wearing those shirts again,” he muttered, unable to hide his bemusement.

As the clowns danced and waved, the parade watchers—especially the men—began to focus on the black rubber shirts. There was something oddly mesmerizing about the contrast between the playful clown costumes and the sleek, modern shirts. It sparked conversations among them, a mix of curiosity and bewilderment.

“I didn’t think these shirts would catch on like this,” Tom remarked, half to himself, half to Rachel.

Rachel laughed softly. “Well, it looks like they’re becoming quite the fashion statement. Even the clowns are in on it!”

The men around Tom shared similar sentiments, their attention divided between the spectacular parade and the strange allure of the rubber shirts. Some were intrigued, others skeptical, but all found themselves oddly captivated.

The children, meanwhile, remained oblivious to the fashion discussion. Emily and Jake were entirely focused on the towering Kung Fu Panda, their faces glowing with excitement as they pointed and cheered.

As the parade continued, the anticipation grew with every passing float and balloon. Then came the police unit, marching with precision and pride.

They were dressed in impressive uniforms from head to toe—shiny tall black boots, tight shiny black runner pants, and the now infamous black rubber polo shirts, accented with striking gold details. Their ensemble was topped off with crisp, shiny black caps, completing the look of modern authority.

The sight of the police unit was mesmerizing. The men watching the parade found themselves captivated, their attention riveted to the officers’ uniforms. It was as if the world around them had faded away; their minds went blank, completely consumed by the sleek and polished appearance of the unit.

Tom, like many others, stood still, his gaze fixed on the marching officers. He barely noticed the tug on his sleeve from Emily or the questions from Jake. The uniforms had a hypnotic effect, drawing all the men's eyes leaving them entranced.

Rachel, sensing the shift, glanced at Tom and the other men around them, a mix of amusement and curiosity on her face. She gently nudged Tom, bringing him back to the present. “Tom, are you okay?” she asked, smiling.

Tom blinked, his trance broken. “Yeah, I’m fine. It’s just…those uniforms are something else,” he said, shaking his head as if to clear it.

The children, unaware of the fashion statement causing such a reaction, continued to watch the parade with delight. The police unit moved on, their presence leaving an indelible impression on the crowd. For Tom and the other men, the image of the black rubber police uniforms would linger in their minds

As the parade continued, a new spectacle caught the attention of the crowd. A marching band, resplendent in black rubber uniforms that gleamed under the parade lights, approached in perfect formation. Each member wore the now-familiar black rubber polo shirts, the uniforms reflecting an eerie sheen.

The moment the band came into view, the men in the crowd, including Tom, fell silent and still, their gazes fixed on the band. It was as if an invisible force had taken hold of them, rendering them oblivious to everything around them. The air was thick with a sense of anticipation and unease.

The band's music started softly, a harmonious blend of brass and percussion that gradually grew louder. Within the melody, subtle yet insistent, were the words "obey, serve" embedded seamlessly into the notes. The mantra repeated over and over, threading through the music like a whispering command.

The men, entranced by the uniforms and the hypnotic quality of the music, stood frozen, their minds blank. They heard nothing but the embedded words, "obey, serve," resonating within their subconscious. The children tugged at their fathers' sleeves, asking questions and seeking attention, but received no response. Rachel, along with the other women and unaffected spectators, looked on with growing concern.

The band continued to play, their synchronized movements and powerful music creating an almost surreal atmosphere. No matter what Rachel tried—calling out to Tom, shaking his shoulder—nothing could break the trance that held him and the other men captive.

The parade marched on, the dazzling floats and colorful characters passing by unnoticed by the entranced men. For them, the world had shrunk to the relentless repetition of "obey, serve," echoing in their minds, binding them to the spell of the marching band.

As the band moved further along the parade route, the music gradually faded, and the spell began to lift. The men blinked, as if waking from a deep sleep, slowly becoming aware of their surroundings again. Tom shook his head, feeling disoriented. He turned to Rachel, confusion etched on his face.

"Rachel, what happened?" he asked, his voice shaky.

Rachel, relieved but still worried, put a comforting hand on his arm. "You were in a trance, Tom. All of you were. I think it was the band… their uniforms and the music."

As the final segment of the parade approached, the anticipation in the air reached its peak. The firemen, traditionally the final group before Santa’s grand entrance, marched in with an air of authority.

They were dressed in full rubber uniforms, their shiny black polo shirts gleaming under the bright parade lights. Their presence exuded a sense of strength and unity, a stark contrast to the festive chaos around them.

The moment the men in the crowd caught sight of the firemen, the transformation was instant. Eyes glazed over, expressions turned blank, and, as if controlled by an unseen force, they began to move forward, pushing through the throngs of people, shoving their wives and children aside in their single-minded pursuit.

Rachel tried to hold onto Tom, but his strength and determination overpowered her. The children looked up in confusion and fear as their fathers moved in unison towards the curb, their movements mechanical, their gazes fixed on the marching firemen.

Then, in a spectacle that defied belief, Santa Claus appeared, bringing the holiday season to life. But to the shock of the women and children, Santa too was dressed in a shiny black rubber suit, with a black buttoned-up polo shirt prominently displayed. The traditional red and white suit was gone, replaced by this futuristic, unnerving attire.

As Santa’s float passed by, he began throwing black polo shirts into the crowd. The men, now in a full trance, scrambled to catch them, clawing over one another in desperation. The sight was both surreal and unsettling, as these ordinarily composed men fought for the shirts like their very lives depended on it.

Each man who managed to grab a shirt put it on immediately. The transformation was complete; they stood at perfect attention, their expressions devoid of any emotion, their minds seemingly blank. The parade continued, but for the families of these men, the day had taken an unexpected and eerie turn.

Rachel held her children close, her heart pounding with a mix of confusion and fear. She glanced around at the other bewildered wives and mothers, all of them sharing the same look of shock and helplessness.

As Santa’s float proceeded down the street, the festive atmosphere took on an even stranger turn. Behind the sleigh came a line of men dressed in the same black rubber uniforms, but this time with ominous gas masks covering their faces. Their silent, methodical movements added a chilling undertone to the parade.

These masked men approached each individual at the curb who had donned the new black polo. Without a word, they placed gas masks over the men’s faces. Almost instantaneously, the men fell into line, their movements synchronized and robotic. They left the curb, stepping into the street to join the parade.

The wives and children, already bewildered by the events, watched in horror and confusion as their loved ones marched away, now part of this enigmatic collective. The men, now resembling drones more than individuals, moved in perfect formation, their expressions blank, their minds seemingly lost.

Santa, leading this surreal procession, continued to distribute the black polos, reinforcing the transformation. The spectacle left the crowd in stunned silence, the festive joy overshadowed by the eerie uniformity of the new recruits.

Rachel clutched her children tightly, her heart heavy with fear and uncertainty. She searched for Tom among the ranks of the newly transformed, but he was already lost in the sea of identical figures. The parade continued, each step of the marching men echoing like a haunting drumbeat.

As the final float disappeared from sight, the wives and children were left standing, the parade route now eerily quiet

As Jake grew up, the memories of that Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the mysterious transformation of his father lingered in the back of his mind. The image of the black rubber polo shirts and the blissful expression on his father’s face became an obsession, a puzzle piece he could never quite fit into place. The desire to understand and experience what his father had gone through grew stronger with each passing year.

On his 18th birthday, Jake received a package in the mail. His mother had no knowledge of it, and the sender's identity was a mystery. With a mix of curiosity and anticipation, he opened the package. Inside was a black rubber polo shirt, identical to the ones he remembered from that fateful day.

Jake felt a strange pull as he ran his fingers over the smooth material. The sensation was both thrilling and unsettling. Without hesitation, he slipped the shirt on, feeling its cool embrace against his skin. Almost immediately, his mind went blank, the words "obey" and "serve" echoing in his consciousness like a relentless mantra.

Robotic in his movements, Jake stood up and made his way to the front door. He opened it to find a figure standing there, a polo drone who had once been his father, waiting for him.

The drone placed a gas mask over Jake's face, and a wave of overwhelming joy and ecstasy washed over him. The connection was immediate and profound, an inexplicable sense of unity and purpose.

Jake had become one with the polo drone collective, joining his father and others who had been transformed. The bliss he felt was indescribable, a fusion of consciousness with a larger entity. As he marched away, his mind completely aligned with the collective’s purpose, he left behind a family that would never truly understand where he had gone or what he had become of him, his father or the other men who attended that Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade.

[alwaysoutofpaper]

the livestock of haek (top) and haen'oi (bottom), found in and around the landmass/island of Tunib'sau

wanted to draw up some creatures because I haven't created much hae planet fauna. ramblings below the cut, but it's a lot. all you really need to know is all of these animals can be eaten :)

uli'ni are highly social, omnivorous pack hunters (or ambush predators in small numbers), used for pest control by haek. a village can have a near 1:3 ratio of uli'ni to haek, with the pack usually belonging to a single family, or being cared for communally in some cases. bright, soft coats are sought after by haek wanting a pet. there has been a trend of uli'ni being imported into the city as an exotic pet - mainland uli'ni are a lot nastier.

tade are like truffle pigs. they can sniff out root plants from under dirt and snow, so they are critical for farmers when poor weather conditions would normally make harvests miserable. they are usually eaten along with the plants they help harvest. their "wool" is used for bed, bedding, clothes, and other textile things that are otherwise difficult to create with limited fibers. most shed their coats seasonally, but a mainland variety is bred to grow them continuously like sheep.

rudon are the fastest growing, hardest to handle source of protein a haek could ask for. they burrow under the snow, and further into the ground when it isn't covered. raising them is more difficult than hunting them in the wild, but some haek still try, creating stone-lined pits they will fill with dirt to keep rudon contained. they can wreak havoc on any plantlife if left unchecked, so they are rarely raised in the same village as a root plant farm. their fatty tails are used for tallow, which can be sold at high prices or traded for goods if transportation is possible and a surplus is available.

ta'fer is essentially a much meaner lobster. they can pinch, bite, and smack someone around with their tail. they are aggressive to anything that isn't a ta'fer, and evasive when they feel threatened, which makes them difficult to handle without immense caution. the meat is worth it to most haen'oi, though, and just the act of raising them garners a whole lot of respect.

bibbits are some of the most abundant fish (calling them that cus they look like that) in the oceans, found all over the world with different variations. the bibbits found around Tunib'sau are very boney, but those bones are soft and thin, not removed unless necessary (like for baby haek, it could be a choking hazard - baby haen-oi don't have this problem). bibbits are usually smoked and eaten whole for haek, or eaten raw in the water by haen-oi. they are very flavorful, but don't keep well.

le'bul, or the "walking jewel", is a six-limbed nautilus-like critter. they have tentacle-lined arms like octopus, but lack the chromatophores of the same species. they instead rely on their shells for defense and camouflage, evolved to mimic different types of coral, depending on the region they're in. the le'bul shown above grows a shell resembling coral found almost exclusively in underwater caves. tracking them down is a difficult task, but they can be lured out with bibbits, so actually catching them is pretty simple. their shells are often used as decoration or storage depending mostly on the condition of it after the rest of the body is removed.

lastly, corin is basically just a really big tilapia. high in protein, low in fat. their meat is white and not the most flavorful, but it keeps well and their bones are good for making broth. there are much better, tastier fish out there, but these are the easiest for haen'oi to herd, hunt and trade, so it is the most popular option. they're the closest thing to a domestic fish you can get in those waters. some even let you pet them :)

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Fashion History

for your next poem/story (pt. 1/2)

1850-1879

The Civil War began in 1861 and ended in 1865, heavily impacting the lives of those living during the time period. In fashion, the rise of the sewing machine allowed more decorative effects to be used in dress, and new aniline dyes paved the way for brighter shades of dress.

This time is known as the Crinoline Period because cage crinoline made of whalebone or steel hoops replaced heavy layers of petticoats, and were commonly worn under dresses by women of the time.

One trend that hit its peak in the 1870s was the bustle, an item women secured under the back portion of their skirts to add volume.

In terms of silhouette, a narrow waist with a fitted bodice and full skirts was the recurrent style. Popular sleeve styles included pagoda sleeves, gathered bishop sleeves, and the coat sleeve.

During the day, high necklines were appropriate, but women often wore lower necklines in the evening.

Wraps and shawls were commonly worn, and accessories such as parasols, gloves, snoods, and bonnets were highly desired.

1870-1900

The years 1870-1900 include what is known as the Bustle period, in which the popular silhouette shifted from full skirts to a more fitted look characterized by fullness in the back.

Throughout the Bustle period of the 1870s and 1880s, a variety of padded devices were utilized to create back fullness, as the bustle took on different forms.

The bustle of the first stage (1870-1878) was achieved through manipulation of drapery and the use of decorative details such as flounces and bows at the back.

From (1878-1883) fullness dropped to below the hips and decorative effects of the skirt became focused low as a result.

Long trains and heavy fabrics also helped to emphasize the focus on the rear.

The latter part of the decade (1884-1890) saw the bustle at its largest. Often referred to as the shelf bustle, it was rigid and took on the appearance of an almost horizontal projection. At this time, skirts shortened to several inches above the floor and rarely had trains, with the exception of some evening dresses.

Additionally, they include the 1890's, which are often referred to as the Gay Nineties or La Belle Epoque. Times were good, Paris was the center of high fashion, and for those who could afford it, dress was lavish and highly decorative.

The corset continued to be worn, aligning with the fashionable silhouette of a full bust and hips with a narrow waist.

Dress ensembles typically consisted of two pieces -- a bodice and matching skirt.

The one-piece princess dress, worn by some during the latter part of the period, was an exception. Bodices were often fitted, with the cuirass bodice style emerging from around 1878-1883.

Sleeves were close-fitting and ended at either three quarters or at the wrist.

Evening dresses were differentiated by their lavish trimmings, level of ornamentation, trained skirts, and short sleeves. Weighted silk offered greater body and was a popular choice for dresses beginning in the 1870s.

Full sleeves were at their largest in 1895, before they gradually decreased in size towards the turn of the century.

By the 1890s, sleeve with fullness were only seen with small puffs at the shoulders.

Tailor-made costumes consisted of wool or serge skirts worn with a shirtwaist blouse. and were considered ideal for traveling.

Shirtwaist blouses were often accessorized by cravats and jabots. The variety of outerwear for women increased during the late nineteenth century and was dominated by coats, jackets, and wraps.

Accessories of the period included small hats, gloves, muffs, decorative fans, and parasols.

1900s

The first decade of the twentieth century is often referred to as “La Belle Époque” - French for "the beautiful age." During this time, Paris reigned as the capital of art and fashion, extravagance and opulence was in, and French couture became all the rage.

Edward VII became King of England with the death of Queen Victoria in 1901, ushering in the “Edwardian Era.”

Additionally, Henry Ford's Model-T was introduced in 1908.

Art Nouveau influenced fashion and ornamentation with the popularity of curvy shapes, floral prints, and ornamentation.

And with the introduction of Ford's Model-T, "motoring garments", such as duster coats and goggles, became essential for automobile riding.

The dominant silhouette of the period was the S-bend hourglass shape, which was achieved through the use of long bell or trumpet skirts that swept the ground, and the “monobosom” fullness of the front bodice.

Voluminous sleeves were another popular feature of turn-of-the-century fashion. Women still wore tightly-boned corsets, along with layers of petticoats. Two-piece ensembles were introduced, consisting of a skirt and a shirtwaist blouse. Garments often featured necklines with high standing collars for daytime and exceptionally low décolleté necklines for evening wear.

Lingerie dresses — flowing white gowns with lace detailing — were a popular choice for outdoor hot weather. Pale colors and un-patterned fabrics adorned with lace or embroidery were favored in this style. Shoes and boots exhibited pointed toes, and parasols were a must-have accessory for outdoors. Elaborate, often large hats decorated with bird feathers enjoyed heightened popularity.

1910s

The War Years (1914-1918) resulted in simpler styles, with moderation in fabric usage as well as the use of darker hues. As a result, garments of this period often have a more utilitarian and masculine appearence.

The “teens,” as the 1910s are often referred to, saw sweeping changes in fashion due to the work of French designer Paul Poiret, who was largely inspired by both the exoticism and color of the Far East and the Ballet Russes. “Orientalism” in fashion became all the rage and was seen in kimono-shaped coats, capes, saturated colors, and exotic embellishments.

Popular trends included the “peg-top” silhouette with hip fullness, Paul Poiret’s narrow-at-ankle “hobble skirt”, and Mariano Fortuny’s “Delphos gown” which featured his secret pleating technique.

Tunic dresses were also introduced, and featured a short skirt layered over a longer one. Necessitated by the new shapes in fashion, the hourglass S-bend silhouette transitioned into a more column-like, tubular form with a higher waistline. Brassieres replaced tight corsets and accommodated the soft, unfitted tea gown, a popular choice for afternoon hosting. The wide-brim hat continued to be a fashionable accessory and shoes began to replace boots.

1920s

The year 1920 marked the beginning of Prohibition, as well as the end of the Suffrage Movement, with women gaining the right to vote.

King Tutankhamen’s tomb was discovered in 1922, further fueling the taste for the exotic, and creating an obsession with all things Egyptian.

The Harlem Renaissance ushered in the Jazz Age; sleeveless dresses with shorter hemlines and sequin, bead, and fringe embellishment enhanced and enabled the fast-paced dance movements of the Charleston and Fox Trot.

The "Roaring Twenties" were years of major change for both fashion and society.

Besides major cultural events inspiring change, fashion was also influenced by Art Deco through the use of straight lines and geometric forms in both silhouette and decoration. The twenties silhouette was straight and tubular, and dresses deemphasized female curves, breasts, and hips.

Chemise dresses hung straight from the body and helped created this fashionable linear silhouette. The “flapper,” with her bobbed-hair and boyish silhouette, became the epitome of the fashionable look of the period. Hemlines rose, revealing more of the female leg for the first time in dress history, and shifting the focus to shoes for the first time.

During the period, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel popularized costume jewelry — as well as wool jersey suits.

The cloche, a bell-shaped hat, was “the” hat to have.

Small beaded purses and long beaded necklaces were popular accessories.

1930s

The defining event of the 1930s was the Great Depression.

The stock market crash of 1929 and the ensuing depression created a need for less expensive garments without elaborate ornamentation. Designers of the period therefore relied on seam lines and darts as major forms of embellishment. Clothing that was cheaper and diversified was critical, thus creating the need for ready-to-wear fashion.

The overwhelming popularity of the movies in the 1930s helped perpetuate the ideals of “Hollywood glamour.” Women began looking to screen stars for inspiration in fashion, hairstyles, makeup, and even demeanor. The movies, and the glamorous lifestyle they portrayed, were a way for the public to escape the harsh realities of the Depression.

Designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli incorporated concepts of Surrealist Art into fashion designs, offering fantastical creations that also provided a flight from reality.

The 1930s also saw the birth of American sportswear and two-piece bathing suits for women. The decade saw a continuation of the linear shape of the 1920s, but with a leaner, longer, more feminine silhouette. The waistline returned to its natural position and hemlines dropped. Evening fabrics tended to be pale or white solids of silk or satin, and the backless evening gown was introduced at this time.

French designer Madeleine Vionnet created the “Bias Cut”, which produced a “liquid” clinging effect on the body. Hats of all varieties were widely worn, and a right-angle tilt was a common way hats were styled. Shoes featured low heels and rounded toes. Costume jewelry and fur added the final touch of fashionable glamor.

1940s

World War II began in 1939, ushering in a new conservatism in fashion. Fashion designers were forced to close their houses in Paris, and “practicality” became the new buzzword in fashion, with a focus on producing sensible styles and “utility garments” which required a minimum quantity of fabric.

In the United States, the L-85 Limiting Order aimed to freeze the war-time silhouette and stop rapid seasonal changes in styles in order to conserve fabric use. Tailored suits and military-influenced styles were seen in items such as belts, breast pockets, high necklines, and small collars. Both clothing and hair were influenced by the war.

For women who worked in factories, superfluous decoration and long hair posed safety threats. Hairstyles and makeup became an integral way to achieve personal style, since clothing and accessories were rationed.

Hollywood stars such as Veronica Lake, Rita Hayworth, and Bette Davis were significant influencers of fashion. American designers began developing sportswear collections, spurred by the necessity of the war-time focus on the ideals of simplicity and utility.

Casual separates, shirtwaist dresses, slim skirts with patch pockets, and halter and square necklines became popular. Women could also be seen wearing trousers, although it was mainly for utilitarian purposes, not everyday wear. 

The 1940s silhouette was tailored and narrow, with a nipped-in waistline and squared shoulders achieved through the use of shoulder pads. Hemlines rose to just below the knee. In light of rationed fashion, hats allowed an individual fashion statement, and small styles such as veiled pillboxes and berets, often worn at a right angle, were most popular. Shoes were usually chunky with rounded toes and featured either low-heeled or wedge soles.

Leg makeup was also introduced and offered women a remedy to the rationing of nylon stockings.

More Notes: On Fashion ⚜ Writing Notes & References

[valeriianz]

Dream is trying to be good. He is out of his house, for starters, attempting to mingle among the crowds. He figures this effort alone is worth at least 10 points on the socialization scale.

He may be wearing black on black as usual, but at least this is his nice pea coat, and his jeans don’t have any rips in them. His hair is even washed (though he hadn’t bothered with a combing, minus 3 points).

It’s New Year’s Eve, he’s standing at one of the few scattered tables around the large space. The bar’s ceiling and walls are lit up in a colorful agglomeration of Christmas lights and twinkling decor, so much that the people around him appear to have pink or blue or orange skin, otherwise the place is dark.

Dream drums his fingers on the tall table’s surface, scanning the crowd and trying not to look too uncomfortable at the DJ’s choice in thumping bass and current rap trends blanketing the ocean of conversation happening all around him.

“Hey, how are you?”

Dream watches as a man walks around him to stand across the table, setting a drink down and smiling in a lazy, drunk way.

Dream just stares.

“Sorry, I saw you standing alone and thought you might want some company.”

The man has to lean forward and yell to be heard over the music and people. Dream is responsive enough to at least lean in as well to catch the stranger’s words.

“I’m fine, thank you.” Dream barely has to raise his voice, thanks to his natural baritone. He’s thankful for that; he hates shouting and to do so just to commit to a conversation would be tribulation.

The man doesn’t seem to catch Dream’s response though, or doesn’t care to. He takes a sip of his drink and tries again, his fingers curling around the pint.

“Can I get you a drink?”

Dream seizes the opportunity to politely turn this man away from him.

“No, thank you. My boyfriend is getting my drink.”

The man’s brows pinch together.

“Where is your boyfriend?”

He says it like it’s a joke. Like he’s caught Dream red-handed. Dream sighs and turns to look at the crowded bar.

“He’s right…” Dream’s eyes desperately scan the scene of chaos at the bar, hoping to find Hob’s familiar head of dark brown hair, his mischievous caramel brown eyes, or even the bomber jacket he wore tonight. But from here, it’s difficult to spot anyone’s face in the crowd. The blinking lights give off strange shadows and everyone is moving, either dancing or stumbling to push through the dense sea of bodies.

He hears a soft laugh from the man across from him and looks over to find him shaking his head, but he’s smiling.

“Look, I don’t mean to come off strong, but someone as gorgeous as you shouldn’t be alone on New Year's Eve.”

Any patience left for this man is immediately snuffed out, like water tossed onto a fire.

“I told you, I’m–”

“Waiting for your boyfriend, uh huh.” He grins with his teeth and Dream barely restrains from throwing his head back in annoyance. 

If there weren’t a threat of getting lost in the crowd, Dream would abandon his station here and go looking for Hob. But he knows it’s better to stay here and wait as he had been, despite the nuisance still attempting to converse with Dream.

He steps around the table to stand next to Dream, who takes a deliberate step sideways away from him.

“What’s your name?”

Dream ignores him, head now permanently angled towards the bar.

“You know,” he starts up again and Dream eyes flutter shut, praying for patience. “The longer you ignore me, the more persistent I’ll become.”

Dream opens his eyes and levels the man, who is definitely drunk, with an unamused look.

“Even if I weren’t already spoken for, this is a terrible way to receive my affections.”

“He speaks!” The man exclaims and laughs. Dream pinches the bridge of his nose and has officially made the decision to lose his mind at the stranger, when he blessedly feels two familiar strong arms wrap around his waist.

“Sorry that took so long,” Hob speaks directly into Dream’s ear, no need to shout with lips tickling his skin. “I got us two drinks each so we don’t have to deal with that again.”

Dream smiles, unaware of how tense he was as his body relaxes against Hob’s– before it sharpens to a smirk at the utterly baffled expression on the strange man’s face.

Hob’s lips trail up the shell of Dream’s ear, his nose nudging in his hairline as he speaks again, his hot breath warming Dream up from the inside and sparking a sudden and intense feeling of surrender in Hob’s possessive hold. 

“Who’s your friend?” And fuck, Dream can hear the control in Hob’s voice. The question is innocent enough, but the way his tone pitches into a growl, low and dangerous, makes Dream’s toes curl. 

“I don’t know,” Dream answers simply, one brow arching at the other man, giving him the decency to turn and walk away on his own before Hob can make a show of animalistic ownership that Dream can practically feel radiating off Hob’s self-control.

Thankfully the stranger leaves, which is just as well, though Dream would have rather liked being ravished with an audience.

He turns to face Hob properly, duly noticing the drinks on the table and slips his arms around Hob’s middle, bringing them flush together in what can only be described as a bear hug.

Dream tucks his face under Hob’s jaw– bending his knees a little– and inhaling deeply, the scent of Hob’s cologne grounding him, and exhaling loudly through his mouth and smiling again at Hob’s deep chuckle that rumbles through his own body.

“You good?” Hob asks into Dream’s hair, placing a kiss there.

“Mm…” Dream hums. “I’m great.”

[greensagephase]

Baking Halloween Cookies with Miguel

Miguel O'Hara x GeneralReader

Summary: Baking Halloween cookies with Miguel.

Word Count: 1,086

Warnings: Fluffy Miguel; mention of a specific movie that reader enjoys (not necessary to know about to read) Masterlist

🍂 🕯🍂 🕯🍂🕯 🍂🕯 🍂 🕯🍂

It’s your first year together, and in passing, you mentioned wanting to bake cookies like the sugar cookies that have the pumpkin on them. You saw some trend online in which people were layering those cookies over the regular chocolate chip ones and you want to try it out.

Miguel is instantly all over the idea. So much so that when you get home from work, you find Miguel at home already. He usually gets home much later but here he is, showered and dressed in his comfy clothes and greeting you with that smile that melts all your stress away.  

“So glad you’re home, mi vida. Look at what I got,” Miguel says, leading you to the kitchen after helping you take off your coat and placing your items away.

And that’s when you see the numerous packs of cookies on one of the counters. You stare in awe at him. You didn’t think he’d be so into this idea but suddenly he’s asking if you want to go shower while he makes dinner so the two of you can bake a few batches.

You smile and agree because seeing Miguel so excited over baking cookies is so heartwarming, you simply cannot say no to him.

And so, after eating dinner and cleaning up, the baking starts. But of course, the ambiance is set first. Your shared apartment decorated for Halloween and autumn, so there are pumpkins and spider webs, for obvious reasons, decorating your living room. You have string lights that look like corn candy hanging over the chimney and in other areas of the living room, along with flickering autumnal candles here and there that make the apartment smell amazing. And of course, you even set a Halloween playlist.

You preheat the oven while Miguel gets the baking sheets and then the two of you start. You show Miguel how the cookies need to go and he’s all smiles, loving every second of it. There’s no talk of work or other stressors in your life. The two of you focus on laying out the cookies while talking about childhood memories around Halloween. He tells you about the one time Gabriel insisted the two of them have costumes related to each other even though Miguel wanted to be a character from a different series. He also tells you about the time he and his friends went to some abandoned house as teenagers only to get spooked by a stray cat, which makes you laugh, earning yourself a playful glare. 

At last, you and Miguel put the trays into the oven once it’s done preheating. The two of you clean up any mess behind and continue to talk about your childhood memories but you eventually find yourself cornered in the kitchen resting against a counter with Miguel pressed against you. He can’t stop himself from peppering your face with kisses as you share one of your own experiences. You don’t mind the kisses at all and get into it until the oven interrupts. 

“We should leave them in there for a little longer,” Miguel whispers but you shake your head, chuckling. 

“They’re gonna burn,” you whisper back before you manage to slip out of his embrace to check on them. 

You take the cookies out and let them cool for a bit, still thinking about your Halloween and your childhood.

“I have an idea,” you tell Miguel, who raises an eyebrow, full of curiosity. “Wait here.”

You head to your living room and turn on the tv, before pulling up a streaming service. Talking about your childhood has reminded you of one of your favorite animated Halloween movies as a kid, so you decide to pull it up so you can watch it. 

You prepare the living room to watch the movie by getting blankets and pillows out before you lure Miguel into the living room with cookies and your choice of drink, settling on the couch under blankets. 

“What are we watching, mi vida?” Miguel asks before bringing a cookie to his mouth.  

“I used to watch this when I was a kid. It used to come on the cartoon channel. It’s called Scary Godmother: Halloween Spooktacular.”

Miguel nods, already intrigued as he eats another cookie. The two of you start watching the movie as you eat. Miguel seems to enjoy the movie, loving the fact that you’re sharing this with him. At one point Miguel pulls you closer, wanting to be nearer to you. The proximity allows you to feel the vibrations of Miguel’s chest as he laughs at the funny parts and of course, you love his commentary throughout it. 

“Jimmy is being unnecessarily mean to everyone.”

“These kids are being so mean. Poor Hannah.”

You rest against Miguel under the blanket, enjoying his reactions and commentary until the end of the movie. 

“There’s a sequel,” you say as the credits roll. 

“Well, then let’s watch it,” Miguel says with a grin. 

“Really?”

“Yes! That was really fun to watch.”

You grin and put on the next movie. “I have to ask, who’s your favorite character?”

Miguel wraps his arms around you as the movie starts, thinking. “Well, Scary Godmother is very cool. I like the vampire family a lot but I also like Skully and Harry… You know what - Skully,” he says which makes you grin. 

“He’s my favorite,” you say referring to the skeleton in the movie. 

“So, I guessed correctly,” Miguel says with a smile as he kisses the side of your head. You smile and he pulls you closer, if that’s even possible. “Thank you for sharing this with me, mi vida,” Miguel whispers as his warm, large, and calloused hand gently holds your much smaller one. “And for baking cookies with me. It’s been a really long time since I’ve done something like this.”

Smiling, you nod and shift your body so you can face him. You press a kiss to his cheek. “I’m happy to. I love seeing you like this, you know? Relaxed, laughing, and having a good time. We should do this more often.”

Miguel kisses your forehead gently before he leans back, grinning. “We should. Once a week. How does that sound?” he asks as he caresses your face with his free hand. 

“That sounds perfect,” you whisper. 

“Then it’s settled. Oh - and cookies must be included, mi vida.”

You chuckle and nod. “Deal,” you reply, as you settle back into his chest to enjoy the sequel in your warm and cozy apartment. 

🍂 🕯🍂 🕯🍂🕯 🍂🕯 🍂 🕯🍂 Translation for Italicized words: Mi vida - My life

I had this sitting in my drafts and it's the last day of October, so I just decided to post it. Happy Halloween!

[ripstefano]

From The Russian Army 1914-18

Early War Uniforms (1914-1915)

At the outbreak of the war, Russian Imperial Army uniforms were traditional and formal, inspired by 19th-century European military fashion. Key features included:

Infantry: Soldiers wore the gymnastiorka, a pullover-style tunic with a standing collar, often in olive green or khaki to blend with rural landscapes. Rank was indicated by colored collar tabs and shoulder boards.

Headgear: Soldiers wore the M1910 peaked cap, which had a leather visor and badge. Officers and guards regiments wore the iconic shapka, a tall fur hat, especially in colder climates.

Footwear: Soldiers wore sapogi (knee-high leather boots), which were sturdy but hard to maintain on the battlefield.

Cavalry and Specialized Units: The cavalry wore the traditional long blue or dark green overcoat with distinct colored cuffs and collar insignia. Cossack and other specialized units had specific, unique uniforms, often featuring traditional garments like the cherkesska (a type of coat) and decorative braid.

Mid-War Changes (1915-1916)

As the war progressed, Russia’s economy and industry struggled to keep up with demand, leading to simplifications in uniforms:

Tunic: The gymnastiorka became simpler, often without the colored collar tabs or decorative elements. Khaki shades became standard as brighter colors were deemed impractical.

Greatcoat: The heavy wool shinel (overcoat) remained a staple, especially during harsh winters, but there was a shortage of quality fabric, and lower-quality cloth began to appear.

Headgear: Caps were simplified, with many soldiers receiving the budenovka (a soft, pointed wool cap) by 1917. This cap became especially popular in winter regions but had limited protection.

Late-War Uniforms (1917-1918)

The Russian military was increasingly influenced by revolutionary sentiments, and practical, minimal designs became the norm:

Tunic and Coats: Uniforms were pared down further, with basic olive-drab tunics and greatcoats. Rank insignia were minimal and often overlooked as soldiers became more focused on function than formality.

Insignia: Some units began to remove the imperial insignia altogether due to the influence of the Bolsheviks. Instead, red armbands or patches occasionally appeared.

Boots: Soldiers frequently substituted traditional boots with puttees (long cloth wraps) due to the shortage of leather, a trend seen across European forces during this period

[mayullla]

Hello again ahaha <3 I really love this little event and I absolutely love your writing so much!! ♥️♥️

Alsp Can I request Yan Ayato with 🦋 reader + 🍀?

Title: Valentine Chocolates

Character(s): Ayato (Genshin Impact) Summary: Your husband Ayato has gotten you valentine's chocolates. Warnings/tags: Yandere themes, Fem!reader, drugging, aphrodisiac or you can think of it as a love potion, force marriage (husband and wife), force feeding (technically? not really? but just in case.) Note: You are so sweet thank you so much! ^^

[ - A little present~! Event - Closed - ]

You sighed when the maid called your name. Anger and annoyance swelled in your heart yet you tried to keep it within yourself when she told you that your husband was calling for you. "Tell him that I go right after I finish my hair." You told the maid, another maid was combing your hair. The maid who brought the message bowed before closing the door.

You looked at yourself in the mirror and could not help but sigh. Forced into this marriage you wanted nothing more than to avoid your husband who had shackled you. Yet almost every day he would call you and unable to deny even a quarter of them you gave up.

"You have called me?" You asked after he had told you to come in. Walking into his office you sat down on the opposite side of the table away from his reach. His face was stiff when he saw your actions but quickly smiled. You knew you have angered him.

"You are here, what took you so long?" Ayato asked as if wondering why you haven't arrived the moment he called you. You knew that he knew already the reason while you faced yourself to smile. "I was fixing my hair, my lord." You told him with a soft voice holding back its sharpness. "I apologize for my tardiness."

"We are husband and wife what good is a husband who does not show patience towards his wife who got dolled up just for him." You wanted to cringe at his words hating as he made sure to coat everything ever so sweetly. "My dear, you should stop being so formal with me I am your husband."

Your eye twitched at his words but still kept the smile on your face only choosing to bow as if apologizing that you would continue to be formal towards your own husband as if you were still uncomfortable with him when you weren't supposed to be so. You and he had promised to be together till death after all.

Even if you didn't want it.

"Hmm... never mind then I haven't called you here just to tell you that you should be comfortable around me." Standing up Ayato went to a corner of a room with a drawing, opening the shelf he came back with a box in his hand as you looked upon it curiously.

"Here. I would like to give my wife chocolates. I heard that youngsters have this trend of giving chocolates to their crushes on February 14. Even Ayaka had prepared them. I figured that you would appreciate this romantic gesture." Ayato took a seat right beside you too close for comfort as you instinctively moved away just a little. You saw the small bonbons decorated elegantly inside the box when he opened it.

"It is usually the woman who would give the chocolates to the man she chooses not the other way around." It was a desperate excuse not to take them, but you knew that it was all useless.

When you saw his smile widen a little more, you knew he thought that was a lame excuse too. "Well, I thought that it would be better for me to do it seeing that my wife is rather forgetful at times too busy to find time for small events like these." He said gently.

"I just want a moment with my lovely wife who has been alone after all this time." You flinched when you felt something solid touch your lips as the faint smell of sweetness reach your nose.

"What..." You tried to pull away however Ayato's fingers that were holding the chocolate continued to follow your lips. Tilting his head he chuckled at your flustered state, "Why it is only proper for me to spoil my wife myself sometimes."

"...This is unnecessary."

"But I want to do so and surely you are not gonna deny your husband's wish are you?" You looked at the chocolate and then at the man who forced you into this situation smiling happily at you, patiently waiting. You knew that you won't be leaving this room unless you follow his whims so you hesitantly opened your mouth letting the chocolate fall into your mouth. "That's good."

"This pin would look lovely on you dear." Ayato raises his hand to touch the clip that was on your hair. "It goes well with your kimono." Taking out another chocolate he places it on your lips as you finished eating the first one. You were about to say something to stop but he didn't let shushing you as he plops another chocolate into your mouth. You felt almost like a child because of his actions as you forced yourself to bite the chocolate again.

"We have been married for 3 months now, I have been a little busy as of late so I wasn't able to be by your side for the most part. I apologize." He grabbed another chocolate looking at the small bonbon deep in thought. You wonder what he was thinking, to be honest, he shouldn't have to apologize as you did prefer him to be busy. The more he was busy the more time you didn't have to be with him.

"?!" You watched Ayato move the chocolate closer to his lips thinking that he was going to eat it only to be taken back when you saw his kissing the chocolate between his fingers. His eyes looked at you, something was there in them that you choose to ignore and look away from him to the other side of the room.

"But I should be less busy now. All the important things have been done and the more minor things can either be pushed back or someone else could take over." You understood what he was talking about and you dreaded it. Moving your face to face him Ayato placed the chocolate right on your closed lips. "Say ahh, dear."

You didn't have a choice.

"There.. that's good." Ayato chuckled at your reluctance but continued to feed you chocolates as he started to talk about work and how easy it was to catch the nobles who planned to go behind his back. His voice which was once so clear and annoying started to grow blurry as you tried your best to focus on eating the chocolates that he would slowly place into your mouth. It was hard to focus as heat surged into your body, and cold sweat started to form on your back. What's wrong with you...

One more chocolate was about to be placed into your mouth as you opened it to accept the fingers holding it yet it stopped before it could place the chocolate in. You squint impatiently waiting for the chocolate as you look up at Ayato wondering why had he not given you the chocolate yet.

The chocolate that was close to your lips slowly pulled away and placed back into the tray much to your dismay as you almost snapped at your husband for the fact that he would not feed you the chocolates only to be silenced when his hand reached for your cheek cupping it as his eyes expressed concern.

"My dear, your face is red. Do you have a fever?" Ayato asked as he watched you panting, unable to handle the heat his cool hand felt almost like a luxury when he touch your cheek. You looked at his hand and wondered what he had put on the chocolate to make you like this yet you could not pull away from his hand leaning to it as if you have found comfort in it.

You looked up towards Ayato's face seeing his face flushed red, looking so seductively at you amused at your expression. His lips curled in an amused smile as he looked at your lightly parted mouth.

"What an adorable wife you are."