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whispersfromtheshadowsoffical · 8 days

Note

What are some fun facts from all of them?

Hello! Thank you for sending in an ask 😈

Apollo loves giving nicknames to everyone, especially the person he loves. He’d come up with the silliest or sweetest pet names on the spot.

Apollo is always full of energy and enthusiasm, making him the life of any situation. He can turn even the most mundane activity into something exciting.

Apollo thrives in fun environments like carnivals. He’s incredibly good at balance games but hilariously bad at any game that involves skill shooting, like water guns or darts.

Apollo has a huge appetite for snacks. If you take him anywhere expect him to eat almost everything, to the point of nearly putting the place out of business

Apollo believes that narwhals are fake

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Soren has an obsession with all things cute and beautiful. He loves collecting dolls and pretty trinkets, sometimes treating people like one of his collections once he becomes attached.

While Soren has a sweet and innocent facade, he’s a master at using his cute looks to manipulate others. If he feels like he’s losing control, he’s not above shedding a few tears to gain sympathy.

Soren hates reading and math

Soren’s obsessive about his appearance and will spend hours getting ready just to look perfect. Even the smallest detail, like a hair being out of place, can ruin his mood.

Though Sorens prone to crying as a manipulation tactic, Soren is careful never to let his tears become "ugly crying." He’s always mindful of his appearance, even when upset.

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• Lynx has a penchant for anything luxurious or high-end. He gravitates toward expensive clothes, accessories, and lavish surroundings, as it aligns with his desire to be worshipped and pampered.

• Lynx loves collecting rare and expensive items, seeing them as extensions of his own status. He takes great pride in showing off his collection.

• Despite his prickly personality, Lynx has a secret fondness for cats. Their independent yet pampered nature resonates with him.

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• Xenos thrives in the nighttime, preferring to operate in the shadows. He finds peace in the quiet of the night, often using this time to stalk the person he’s obsessed with or take photos of them without being seen.

• Xenos has an uncanny ability to remain unnoticed, whether he’s watching from afar or blending into the background.

• Xenos notices every little detail about the person he’s obsessed with, from the way they dress to the smallest changes in their appearance or behavior.

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• Nox has a collection of notebooks where he writes down poems, thoughts, and sketches. Each notebook holds different memories or ideas he’s had, and he carries one with him at all times to jot down inspiration when it strikes.

• Despite his quiet nature, Nox has a soft spot for physical affection. He won’t ask for it, but he appreciates it when his Darling initiates things like hand-holding or resting their head on his shoulder. It’s one of the few ways he feels connected without needing to speak.

• Nox enjoys spending time outdoors at night, particularly under a starry sky. He finds peace in the stillness of the night and often takes his Darling to quiet places where they can stargaze together in comfortable silence.

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• Kaine hates being bored and is always looking for excitement. Whether it’s taking his Darling on a wild adventure or finding new ways to tease them, he constantly seeks thrills and challenges to keep life interesting.

• Kaine is big on physical touch, from playful nudges to full-on embraces. He’s not shy about wrapping his arm around his Darling or pulling them into his lap, often using touch to fluster and tease them.

• Kaine is half snake and if your not careful he might eat you 🤭

#visual novel #whispers from the shadows #english otome #indie otome #my ocs #oc #asks open #anon ask #ask answered #answered asks #ask #send me asks #yandere headcanons #yandere oc #yandere male #male yandere #yandere

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satoruin · 2 years

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THE TEYVAT HOST CLUB

you have selected — HOST TARTAGLIA

if you would like to select a different host, please refer to our host roster located here

the teyvat host club event is based on the animanga ouran high school host club! these hcs are about genshin characters as hosts within teyvat high school

notes from lee: scrunkly is getting a rerun so i did his event hc’s first! i’ve been lowk struggling to make ideas for all of the guys but it’s ok 👍 ty for supporting me and more of the ohshc au event hc’s to come!

tartaglia joined the host club his first year at teyvat mostly due to a misunderstanding

he thought that host club meant something about fighting and hosting fights so he blindly joined

he hated it to say the least

but his papers to switch clubs got denied and he was stuck being a part of the host club

and then the benefactor funding his tuition told him that it would be a good opportunity to get to know others his age and to make connections

so he grins and bears it, putting on his charming personality that everyone loves

it’s not until the second semester that he finds himself not pretending anymore and that he actually has started to like some of the members

the other host club members are also very talented and educated even in martial arts so it has given him several new opponents and butt kickings

so as of now he sort of enjoys it but don’t tell the other members, they’ll call him sappy

childe is a surprisingly popular host within the club

it’s not unusual to see several guests at his table hanging onto his every word

tartaglia prefers to go by childe when he’s actively entertaining guests

when he has smaller sessions, he’s even more charming

he’s gotten pretty good at remembering names

but it was only after he messed up pretty bad and then had to beg for the guest roster

loves to fluster guests

he’ll come out of nowhere and start holding hand with you or surprise you with a kiss on the cheek

would make cheesy jokes like how you shared an indirect kiss after he stole your drink

overall, childe is a big BIG flirt, he just loves seeing other people flustered faces and actions

BUT if you manage to turn the tables on him and fluster him…

he gets the cutest blush that turns his ears red and accentuates his freckled cheeks

he also tries to deny that he’s blushing

OMG he makes you feed him and then he’ll bite your finger and tell you that you taste even sweeter than whatever you fed him

has probably beat someone up on school grounds

idk why he would but it’s definitely out of jealousy or protecting his or someone else’s pride

his benefactor (the fatui) definitely sponsors the school in some way so he doesn’t get in too much trouble

most likely a slap on the wrist and that’s why he keeps doing it

but it creates this bad boy with a soft side persona that he absolutely embraces

talks about his family a lot and how he wants to visit them more often

probably brought teucer in one time and EVERYONE fawned over their relationship

since he really likes you and teucer took a liking to you when he was there childe invites you to meet his family over a break

also because he likes you, he leaves little gifts on your desk

it’s always from a secret admirer (bc he’s not supposed to show favoritism as a host) but you know it’s from childe

he’s the only one that would give you a narwhal keychain

if you did start dating, which would have to be kept a secret to his guests, he would still do cheesy simp stuff

like pull you around the corner to give you a goodbye kiss in secret

or tell you the worst pickup lines in existence

but it’s endearing in a way that makes you roll your eyes and smile

#tartaglia x reader #genshin impact x reader #genshin x reader #childe x reader #tartaglia #childe #ajax x reader #genshin impact #tags my beloathed #[ lee's writing ]#[ + ] genshin impact #! tartaglia

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everlastiingiimmortals · 6 months

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Dynamics of Interest

As stated, this is a brief list of dynamics I'm interested in building more of, and why. This list is not exclusive, nor does it encompass all that I'm willing to develop! Of course, each mun and muse is different, and that naturally applies here too. This is mostly to generate thoughts/inspiration!

Those marked with an asterisk are those I'm more hesitant to write outside of with a few people or that I'd like more extensive development for due to being picky with characterization. I also am choosing to not state whether these are romantic or not, because I'd like that to happen organically through mun-mun conversation.

Jing Yuan

Blade* - a tale of loyalty to old friends, a wish for a peaceful farewell, lingering regrets and bitterness, a haunting sense of betrayal

Dan Heng - a bond that transcends time, patience and support, seeing one's true self without judgement, homeward bound

Jingliu - a mourning for a childhood lost, missing the person that raised you, fearing history repeating, a loss of trust, wishing for approval just once

Yukong - mutual grief, the struggles of parenthood, an understanding that all things come to an end and change, raising the future

Fu Xuan - faithfulness, familiar bickering, reliance on an unexpected comfort that one's presence brings, care that needs not be spoken out loud

Yanqing - a story of coming of age, balancing expectations with reality, guidance and nurturing, fatherhood

Trailblazer - loyalty earned through merit, lessons taught through challenge and play, skepticism wrought through selective truths

Kafka - a game of chess, a dangerous dance, woven lies and half truths, a mutual understanding of the stakes at play, thunder webs and lightning claws

Zhongli (genshin AU) - a lord and his general, reminiscing over old times, unwavering faith and loyalty, a shared interest in the finer things in life

Dr. Ratio

Aventurine* - conflict of philosophy, cooperation through contracts, tentative trust, slow growing understanding and compassion

Topaz - a conflict of naivety and pessimism, mutual understanding of intellect, GO NUMBY! ZERO POINTS!, believing in the system vs. daring to change it, honesty and righteousness even in the face of consequence

Sunday* - what is a god to a nonbeliever?, dreams vs. reality, a challenge of authority, the threat of knowing all and seeing all

Argenti

Boothill

Screwllum* - of man and machine, an unfair rivalry, chasing a standard you can never meet, spite towards the meritocracy, the cruelty of time

Black Swan - forbidden knowledge, a mutual exchange of memories, embracing the beauty of the human existence, to be is to be perceived, preservation against the test of time

Trailblazer - a teacher, challenging naivety, trials as both guidance and investment

Stelle

Welt - a sense of awe, comfort and reliance in experience, apprehension of the past and known secrets

Dan Heng - kinship through shared troubles, i've got your back, the utmost trust in each other's abilities

March 7th - opposites attract, breaking the ice, comfort in inclusivity and encouragement

Trailblazer - multiverse meta, my other self, identity crisis, an exchange of experiences and comparing of personalities (note: I will not do any twin AUs/dynamics with anyone but @celestial-narwhal!)

Kafka - hostility, a sense of betrayal, no second chances, fear

Silver Wolf - fair and fun rivalry, putting differences aside for the sake of fun

honestly pretty much anyone, I want Stelle to interact with more folks the most

Robin

tba.

Feixiao

tba.

Yingyue

tba.

Sparrowhawk

tba.

Jianxin

tba.

As a reminder, these are mostly general thoughts at the top of my head! Dynamics I haven't listed are those that I either haven't had much thought on or I'm not actively looking for, but I'm still open to potential exploration! You just need to approach me first!

Updated: 07.04.24

#//immortal; (MASTERLIST)#'brief' she said. there's nothing brief about this!!!!!!!!

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trashideas · 1 year

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End of the world game au

In which, the earth is thrown into a game

Ajax and company choose skills and classes.

Ajax is ex-military.

We are going to go with more of the "what is the best ability to have to survive in the apocalypse?"

Ajax's response is "an ability that is fluid and easily adaptable to situations."

"Good response. In return for your response you shall be granted Master of Arms. You can easily weild any weapon."

[NOTICE: Player <Ajax> has used key term "fluid" and will be granted and extra skill to start with]

[You have been granted the Skill (Blacksmith of Raging Tides)]

[(Blacksmith of Ragining Tides) Info: user has the power to create weapons of water. They are hard to master but easy to create]

[Player <Ajax> Skill (Master of Arms) cancels out negative affect of (Blacksmith of Raging Tides)]

[ALERT: QUEST "Survival of the Fittest" has now begun. For the next 168 HOURS Players must survive.

REWARD: Class Skill, Class Reward, 10,000 primos.]

The premise of the game is both survival and a game of luck.

Ajax finds a hidden dungeon pretty early on and falls into it. There, his time runs differently. Each 3 days he spends in the dungeon is a day outside. Ajax has to fight tooth and claw to get out of the dungeon. Because he found the dungeon so soon, he is given a level cap at 15. However, each time he reaches another level up he is given the ability to "summon" weapons, skills, or items.

Essentially, he is leveling up but his stats are staying the same and his level still says 20. Because of this, Childe is pretty much level 40. Though Childe's experience points to reach each level is still rising. So he is fucking up his late game strategies because he has no stats.

Which is why Ajax relies entirely on his skills to get him through places.

Ajax acquires a skill in the Abyss called (Delusions of a Warrior) which gives him a massive buff and also increases his height and all that. However, at the end of the time limit, he takes massively increased damage and suffers fatigue.

The first ally that Ajax makes is in the Abyss. This person also seems to be stuck. Their name is Skirk and they teach him how to survive and help with strategies to utilize his skills to their utmost potential.

Skirt never does say what their class nor skills are.

They beat the boss of the dungeon and Ajax is given a Title and item. His title is "Commander of Tides" and the item he is given is "Amulet of the Seven Seas"

[ITEM: "Goblet of the Seven Seas"

A Goblet of unholy power. It seems to have trapped the essence of a raging storm.

Increases Energy by 300.

Boosts damage of water-based attack by 60%]

[TITLE: Commander of the Tides

Allows player to give shape, form, and power to water]

At first, Ajax just imbues power into his Hydro weapons.

Commander of Tides basically allows Ajax to create hydro manifestations.

Later down the line, he gets a skill from a Loach Boss called

(Manifestations)

It allows the player to create copies of creatures it has defeated. These manifestations can only hold so much power. The more powerful the original foe, the more powerful the manifestation.

Ajax's favorite one to use is from a boss he fought. A narwhal.

Anyways find other players, fight bosses, deal with trauma, people want to kill him for his items

Trust issues once he finds out the group he has been working with has been trying to undermine him the entire time.

The one person he thought he could trust turns out to be untrustworthy.

((note that Zhongli's skill is just (Dragon's Blessing) in which he turns into a fucking dragon))

Ajax throws away his original name and embraces Tartaglia because nobody will know him.

He is given a hidden skill called "Merciless Slaughter" which grants the user stacks of bloodlust. Each stack of bloodlust increases attack by 10% for 3 minutes after an enemy is killed for an increase of 100% maximum. However, the stacks of minutes keep going and going. The drawback is that the bloodlust overcomes his mind and he sometimes may target allies.

Which is fine by him because he doesn't have any allies anymore.

Tartaglia wants to desperately be with people. He wants to have friends in this fucked up world. He ends up just always having a Hydro Manifestation of a boss-class animal. Usually a fox.

At first, he just had it as a small little creature, but as he kept the fox out and increased the skill effectiveness, he can basically always have the fox out at full power. Which is insane.

A world event occurs and he needs to be a part of a team of at least 4 other players. And he is at a loss because there isn't anyone he can trust.

The timer for creating a team is 5 days and it's at the 5 hour mark that he understands that he is most likely going to die. He isn't okay with that. But it is what it is.

Until someone by the name Lumine and Aether drag him into their team which turns out to be a guild-sized one.

And of course he meets Zhongli again.

The team easily completes the challenges sent their way. With Tartaglia doing much of the heavy lifting during battles, Lumine and Aether practically carry the team through puzzle events.

The first few days is hell. Tartaglia finds that he can't sleep and everytime he eats he throws up. Anxiety courses through his veins and he thinks that someone will jump him at any moment.

And its obvious to the other team members that Tartaglia is weakening. The man is always on night watch and nobody sees him sleep. He eats little and then excuses himself as quickly as he came. But the thing that truly clues them in is the Hydro Fox's form. It starts out as a solid mass of water. Huge in size, akin to a dire wolf. But as the days pass, the fox not only shrinks, but also looses its form.

Tartaglia passed out right after a wave of monsters come at them. As soon as his Bloodlust stacks wore off. The team is quick to supply him with health potions, but they find that he isn't injured. But his stamina is at zero. None of the team has ever seen someone with zero stamina because usually 40 is enough to send people straight to bed.

When Tartaglia wakes up, he is more tired than he's ever been. Zhongli talks with him.

Zhongli informs Tartaglia that his plan was to infultrate the Fatui's trust because he thought they were scheming behind the scenes of helping people. It just so happened that their schemes were to kill Ajax and take his items. Zhongli apologizes profusely for using the other for information.

Tartaglia cries.

...

When the world event ends, Tartaglia is torn between going off alone again or staying with the group.

In the end, they convince him to stay.

While he doesn't sleep easy, he does sleep.

Trust is built slowly between Tartaglia and the team.

However, all of it comes crashing down when they are attacked by a swarm of low-class monsters.

Tartaglia- now dubbed Childe- stays behind to clear away the monsters with a few other fighters. A bard by the name of Venti boosts their stats and also creates a vortex to easily drawn in the enemies. Childe, Diluc, Zhongli, Kokomi, and Gorou are fighting in the lines.

Childe makes sure to keep his distance from the others. He stays well away from everyone. Ever goes a little too deep into enemy lines and gets attacked by a few cheap shots. He quickly dispatches of the enemies.

But he doesn't notice when Kokomi is behind him to help heal him until he feels her element. In a bloodlust-filled panic, he attacks.

Now, Childe has given his Hydro manifestations clear instructions of what to do if he attacks an ally.

They are to subdue him by any means necessary.

Childe gets a slice across Kokomi's chest before his summons have him pinned down. Childe fights against them brutally. It's a bloody fight. One much more devastating than the horde of monsters just fought.

The team rushes to Kokomi's side and she assures them that she is fine. She had forgotten about Childe's bloodlust skill. She quickly healed herself.

But Childe was in much more need of healing. There were three fox summons and each of them were buffed by Childe's bloodlust skill. However, their minds were not lost.

The foxes seemed to genuinely want to kill their master. But as Childe weakened, so did the foxes.

The attack team finally finished up the last of the monsters and joined Kokomi. When Zhongli saw what was happening, he gave Childe a shield and the Hydro fox broke itself apart while attacking.

Childe turned on them quickly. Zhongli transformed into a dragon and just... Laid on top of Childe so he couldn't move. Kokomi healed up most of Childe's wounds but ran out of mana.

The debate of if Childe was too much of a liability came up.

And while the team was trying to build trust with Childe, in the end, it was Childe who broke that trust.

His skill was seen as too much of a problem and he was kicked from the group for the greater chance of survival for the rest of the group.

In what can only be described as absolute hatred for himself and the world, when the location of the False God was revealed, Childe found himself rushing in.

In the end, Childe found himself on his last breaths. Watching as the God wasn't even phased. In fact, she seemed bored. So Childe decides to do something stupid.

In the beginning stages of the game, Childe had been given a Contract. With this Contract he was able to do one thing.

Release a god of his choice.

So he decides "ah fuck it" and unleashes Osial.

A world event notice appears that says that everyone is going to die.

The God is made of water.

Childe has FULL control over eater and mech suits himself inside the God. He kills a bunch of fish and gains a shit ton of stacks for bloodlust. Because his bloodlust is so high, he can train it on one target until either he or the target is dead.

And so Childe fights a god in a god.

And doesn't win.

Because you can't just fight the final boss just like that.

But he drives the god into hiding. Because he exhausted Osial's powers, the god pretty much dissipates. Only, the power recognizes Childe as the owner and he absorbs it.

And yeah.

Childe brought forth the end of the world again but ended up fixing it in his own way.

The world is given a penalty because they shouldn't have been able to go toe to toe with the gods that created the world.

Ends with the defeat of the God, but the system is still in place.

But its one of those things where people think that the system is gone with the God until they wake up one morning a few weeks later and it just says:

[CONGRATULATIONS! Main objective is complete and the system can now run on it's own. Enjoy the new world!]

#genshin impact childe #childe #end of the world game #tartaglia #ajax #snippysnippet #trashideas #long post #theres probably an untagged TW that I don't know about #angst

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that-foul-legacy-lover · 3 years

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I'm blushing so hard because of the praise, please have mercy-

Jumping off the ideas you gave me, I came up with short drabbles. This is likely not going to be good.

Warning of the description of wounds and blood. As well as a major character death. Also, usage of mothman’s real name because I headcanon that reader probably knows it since they met his family before.

It was a sunny clear sky, a perfect day to relax in the sun and spend time with loved ones. Yet why did it end up like this? Why did it end up with your form, battered and broken, weakly staring at him with nothing but love and affection? There were so many wounds… Gashes on your legs, arms, torso… You were also cover in bruises too… Big ones, the size of his hand. Why didn’t you hate him? He did this to you, failing to hold back enough. He failed to bring you back until it was too late. Your breathing was labored and he noticed how much effort it took for you to keep your eyes open. Your lips painted crimson with blood parted but no sound came out. Your fingers weakly curled around the sharp claws, stained with blood. Your blood. He cradled your weakened form gently as if you were going to crumble and fade if he held too tight. You can hear his accelerated heartbeat and his constant whining, knowing that you were done for. You lost so much blood and were in so much pain, and the battlefield was hundreds of miles away from any location that can provide medical care. You coughed, covering his chest with blood but he didn’t care. You laughed weakly and apologized as loud as you could, which was a faint whisper. Your eyes were glossy with tears. “‘M sorry that… this happened. If only I didn’t go…” Your body would then shake more, causing the wounds he tried to cover in vain to reopen and ooze more blood. Your eyelids would flutter, you knew that you were on your last few breaths. “Promise you’ll live for me…? Be happy… I love you… Ajax…” With the last of your strength, you would take off the necklace you were wearing and would wrap it around his wrist. It was a friendship necklace that you worked so hard to make. He wore his ‘bracelet’ on his other wrist. His was purple and blue, having a little narwhale and moth. Yours was in your favorite color as well as having the things that fit you the most. The tears would fall down your face as your eyes close, your body going limp. His whines would grow louder and he would hold your still warm, limp body against him. His whines would then turn into an anguished shriek-cry, almost like a scream. His body would shake as he cried, not moving from where he was. He didn’t care for anything anymore right now. He would stay there, even becoming a husk if he wished to. His beloved light, you, had faded by his own hands.

Warning for torture-like elements? Also, mothman’s real name is used again. I’m not sure what to put.

It was dark, cold, and painful. You cried out in agony as your very being was transformed, becoming something not human. You feel as if you were stabbed with thousands of blades, ripped apart, and then sewed back together crudely. Your haunting cries echoed cruelly through the silence, further solidifying the fact that you were alone. You sobbed, not sure of how much more of this torture you can take. Your stature would grow in size, hands turning into claws. Your face would burn as a mask would painstakingly grow on it. You would desperately try to claw it off with your growing claws, drawing blood that would slowly become less red and human. The color would then grow more reminiscent of galaxies. Your back would arch as the pain amplified, wings growing from them. Your cries were not human anymore, now they sound like your beloved roommate whenever he was in pain. You didn’t even notice anymore, your mind foggy as you collapse once the transformation was complete. You would shakenly gt yourself up and tried to find a way out, wanting to leave this place. Your eyes would land on a wall that had enough holds to climb, however climbing would be a chore with how much you were shaking. You would then start the long and pain-filled journey, falling from your grip being too weak from the way your hands were different. No, from the way your entire being was different. Your muscles ached and screamed at you to give up but you kept fighting on, wanting to see the harbor again. Wanting to see Ajax again. You imagined his soft and gentle embrace surrounding you, lulling you into security with his deep purrs. Your claws balled with determination and after what seemed like an eternity, you would break free to the surface. Body running solely on adrenaline now, you would go to your secret place where only Ajax would know where to find you. You often would go there and you hoped that he would come soon before you passed out. Because you feared if the harbor would find your unconscious body, they would believe that you were a monster and would kill you with no hesitation and not realizing the monster was you. You would wait and wait, your one eye drooping. You would lean against the rocks a boneless heap, the adrenaline finally wearing off. You tried to futilely fight off sleep but would lose the battle. Your eyes would close and you would fall into a dark slumber, mind roaming with nightmares.

i will praise you more because you deserve it!!! if anyone here ever needs a mood booster i will try to be your personal hype person :D also you take those words right back these are AMAZING and i don't take other opinions

i imagine that for the first one he'd sit hunched over your body until someone (probably Zhongli or Baizhu because they can approach him) tries to take you away, to which he shrieks in anguish and tries to follow but someone holds him back to treat his own injuries. maybe you're buried somewhere remote, and Childe starts living near your grave and watching over it. perhaps it becomes a piece of folklore, about a grave with an eternal, monstrous guard. someone with that powerful of a creature watching over their tomb has to be important right? and you are important, but not in the way they think. you're important to Childe because you loved him, not because you were a great warrior or anything. even with the people whispering and gossiping he still watches over your bones and ashes, doing his best to make sure the tombstone is clean and whole. even as his body grows weak from lack of food and good sleep he does this, as his way of being as close to you as possible. after all, Childe can't die, not naturally anyway.

OH THE SECOND ONE IS A PERRRFECT ADDITION TO THE TRANSFORMATIVE AU- MAYBE A DIFFERENT PATH WHERE YOU FALL INTO THE ABYSS ALONE. Childe would find you in that secret location, caught in the grasp of some nightmare. he wouldn't know it was you at first, jumping back with his claws out and fangs bared. but then he'd stop, because beneath the layers of Abyss on you is your faint, familiar scent. he gets cautiously closer and is overwhelmed because while it may not look like you, it feels like you, and you're hurting, you're suffering, and he desperately wants to help. he can see the blood on your claws and face where you had torn at the mask as it grown, and he can hear your terrified whimpers from your nightmare. he scoots next to you, pressing against your side and laying a sparkly wing over you as he gently nuzzles the side of your head. you're vaguely conscious and you reach for his arm, crying out as pain sparks through your body and his heart aches, aches as he tries to comfort you with soft coos and purrs. he'll have to get help for you later, but right now there's only you and him, together.

#genshin impact #genshin childe #genshin tartaglia #foul legacy #foul legacy childe #chit chat #anon #*sets tea down* WOOO SORRY I WENT A LITTLE OVERBOARD #i do that a lot not gonna lie but you know what it's fun and that's what matters!!#which is also what i say to you!! don't worry about if your brainrot or writing is 'good' or 'bad'- if it makes you happy just do it!!#you can show it to other people or keep it as a little gift to yourself!!#that's what i intended to do with the first fic on this blog but i decided to post it because maybe it'll help other people #i don't want anyone to feel scared or judged here <3 #short scenario #transformative au

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hellomissmabel · 7 years

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Nostalgic in New York part 1

MASTERLIST

AO3 account

Pairing: Steve x reader

Warnings: Mentions of cancer, dementia and death.

Word count: 1.341

Summary: On Christmas Eve Steve’s son Joey convinces him to share his story on a radio show. While driving to Bucky’s home, Y/N listens to Steve’s story and it awakens something inside of her. Is she sure about her relationship with Bucky? Or is there something missing?

A/N: Inspired by “Sleepless in Seattle” and written for @sgtbxckybxrnes

Series masterlist can be found here

It’s a long, long drive from your parents’ house to Bucky’s, the highway almost deserted except for some stray cars taking a different exit, probably also on their way to their own Christmas party. You keep your eyes on the road as your lips sing one Christmas carol after the other, until your favourite radio programme is interrupt by static and now you’re forced to switch stations. After going back and forth between either a documentary on Santa Claus or a radio show hosted by some well-known psychologist, you eventually opt for the latter.

The point of her show is the following, she invites people to call her and tell them what troubles them. This can be anything, from a cold turkey to complaining in-laws. The first caller is a young woman from Maine dating a married man who asks the psychologist for love advice. She dubs her the Mistress in Maine. The second caller is a man from Denver who just got kicked out by his girlfriend on Christmas Eve. The psychologist names him the Dumped in Denver.

However, it’s the third caller that really captures your attention. It’s a little boy named Joey from New York. The woman asks him why he called her programme, to which he replies he’s calling regarding his Christmas wish. He wants his father to find love again, he wishes a wife for his father and a mother for himself. Joey hopes that his father will smile again and she asks him if he can put his father on the phone and the boy immediately chimes yes.

“Dad!,” Joey scream from the other end of the living room, holding his father’s cell phone to his ear. “Someone’s asking for you!”

“Alright, buddy,” the blond chuckles as he waves his son over, Joey nestling himself on the couch next to his father, giving the phone to his father. “Hello, this is Steve Rogers speaking.”

The lady then proceeds to inform Steve about his son’s Christmas wish, and Steve sighs heavily as he looks down at his son with a stern gaze. “He’s told you all that, hm?,” Steve replies dryly, Joey looking up at him with red cheeks and a little grin.

“Do you mind sharing with us your story, Steve?”

The blond ruffles through his son’s dark brown hair. “Well, it seems Joey’s already told you most of it…” Hugging his son closer so he can’t wiggle away, Steve continues to tell the psychologist whatever he feels comfortable sharing.

“So my wife died a little over a year and a half ago. Her name was Peggy. She, euhm…,” Steve swallows the lump in his throat. “I’m an architect and she was one of my clients. That’s why I wasn’t really eager to ask her out. But boy, am I glad I did because as soon as I saw her in that red dress…” Steve whistles and it makes both himself, Joey and the woman on the other end of the line laugh.

By now, the entire country has fallen in love with Steve Rogers and you find yourself swooning softly to the kind timbre in his voice. The way he speaks, so full of love, about his late wife. It all makes your heart beat so much faster until it makes you feel so guilty once Bucky crosses your mind again. Sweet, sweet Bucky. What’s happening to you?

But the mood soon changes as Steve reminiscence further, nostalgia seeping through his bones. “Joey, Peggy and I had a good life back in Seattle. She had brain cancer which caused early dementia. In less than six months she deteriorated badly and eventually died. I got a job offer in New York two months after I buried her and I thought that a new environment would do us some good, so I accepted. The job’s almost over and we’ll be flying back to Seattle the day after Valentine’s day.”

“What’s this?,” your best friend Wanda queries as she holds up the crumpled piece of paper you threw away in the trash about an hour before she got here.

You shrug half-heartedly, trying to pry the letter away from her curious fingers. “Nothing. Just a letter that got delivered earlier.”

“Oh really?,” Wanda sees straight through your lies, folding open the letter again and reading the first words out loud.

“Dear mister Rogers…” She kinks a suspicious eyebrow at you. “I’m writing you this letter regarding your radio interview on Christmas Eve.”

Fighting to get the piece of paper away from Wanda and back into the safety of the deepest, darkest chambers of your mind and soul, you run after her as she parades around the house, reading still and much to your embarrassment.

“So you do listen to those stupid radio programmes? What’s this one’s nickname, hm?”

“Nostalgic in New York,” is your quick reply. “Come on, Wanda, don’t…,” you whine in response, halting your chase and leaning against the couch, head hung low. “It’s just a stupid letter. I wasn’t going to post it anyway.”

“Y/N…,” Wanda sighs softly as she joins your side, pocketing the letter and wrapping an arm around your shoulder. “It’s such a beautiful letter, why not send it?”

Your lack of reply rings an alarm in Wanda’s head. “Oh sweetie… Is this about Bucky?”

“He.. euhm…�� With your pause hanging heavily in the air, you fidget with your fingers. “He proposed.”

“What?,” she squeaks out, looking at you with ardent eyes, burning questions on the tip of her tongue. “I thought you weren’t that serious?”

“Bucky and I have known each other for 9 years!,” you defend yourself, wild eyes filled with doubt as your mind mulls over Wanda’s words.

“Yeah, but you’re forgetting there’s a 4 year gap in the middle from when you moved to Chicago!,” Wanda utters faster than you can think of a good comeback. “You dated for 5 years and then you broke up because you wanted different things in life. You took that job in Chicago so you didn’t have to deal with Bucky anymore.”

You chuckle sourly, no soul left in your voice. “When we first met, we told everybody we met through Tinder while we really met through friends. Bucky is funny and spontaneous and so sweet.”

The memory stings like a thorn, especially since you’ve tried to make it work again so hard, poured your heart and soul into a second chance for your relationship… You just don’t want that all to go to waste.

“Bucky and I first saw each other again at that coffee place I took you last week. It had only just opened and the barista messed up our orders. I asked for a white mocha latte with extra whip cream and caramel on top. Bucky asked for a white mocha latte with extra whip cream and chocolate on top. Like, it’s such a coincidence that somebody has the same order as me because it’s so specific! And for that person to be Bucky… Even after 4 years… It just felt like destiny.”

“Y/N, sweetheart,…” Wanda sighs softly as she notices tears are welling up in your eyes.

“I fall in love with a voice over the radio, a guy I’ve never met. But I can’t say ‘I love you’ to my fiancé without having to think it over. I’m a horrible person…”

Wanda squeezes your shoulder, embracing you in a warm hug. “Talk to Bucky, Y/N, I’m sure he’ll understand. After all, you broke up because you wanted different things in life… You wanted to wait with kids and focus on your career as a columnist while Bucky wanted a family as soon as possible…”

“Okay,” you nod with a feebly voice, “I’ll talk to him.”

“Your letter,” Wanda continues softly, “You still wanna meet this guy, don’t you? So how about I post it for you?”

“Thanks, Wanda,” you smile gratefully, wiping away the silent tears with your sleeve. Her kind eyes are too good for this world. “I just hope he writes back…”

Tagging: @avengerofyourheart @a-little-hell-to-raise @marvelingatthewonder @mrshopkirk @hardcorehippos @knittingknerdy @winterboobaer @italwaysendsinafightt @viollettes @hymnofthevalkyrie @feelmyroarrrr @justareader @austinamelio @volklana @howlingbarnes @themcuhasruinedme @theoneandonlysaucymo @caplansteverogers @amrita31199 @emilyevanston @minervaem @howlingbarnes @buchananbarnestrash @youandb @you-and-bucky @fvckingsteverogers @thatawkwardtinyperson @barnes-heaven @that-sokovian-bastard @abovethesmokestacks @marvelrevival @marvel-fanfiction @justanotherbuckydevotee @barnes-heaven @heartmade-writingbucky @buckyywiththegoodhair @captnbarnesrogers @its-not-a-phase-hux @melconnor2007 @ivvitm1109 @toofuckinfabulous @ailynalonso15 @hollycornish @delicatecapnerd @camigt1999 @learisa @curlyexpat @palaiasaurus64 @fanndas-snow-goddess @crisssivonne @yourenotrogers @tomhollandzs @supernaturaldean65 @beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep @aletheladyinred @sniktlogan @xbergiex @reniescarlett @promarvelfangirl @capbuckybuchanan @lovemarvelousfics @yknott81 @rrwilson66 @pegasusdragontiger @salty-holographic-stickers @sammyissassy @sebstanchrisevanchickforever19 @kudosia @bellejeunefillesansmerci @lumelgy @mizzzpink @southernbellestatues @daringtodreamawake @neurotic-narwhal @cokamarie24 @blue1928 @movingonto-betterthings @breezy1415 @isnt-the-blog-youre-looking-for @jesspfly @weenie-butt @debzybrazy @fuckingchaotic @always-an-evans-addict @petersunderroos @thegreentgirl @nedthegay

Strikethrough means Tumblr wouldn’t let me tag you!

#taysmovieau #nostalgic in new york #steve x reader #movie au #steve rogers #marvel #sleepless in seattle!au #chris evans

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halloweenfor · 5 years

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Holiday Costumes - Adult's Narwhal Ugly Christmas Sweater

Theme Halloween Costumes

Christmas Costumes

North Pole PastimesWhat do you think of when winter comes your way? Do you think of all the winter fun that lies in store? You should! Winter has different levels of fun. First, there’s the adrenaline of facing the weather, stepping outdoors and feeling the instant chill run through your body. Then there’s the moment that you warm up while rolling a snowman up or skating across an ice rink. And finally, there’s that incredible feeling of coming back to your cozy home. Is there anything better than throwing on a pair of thick socks and curling up with a hot drink? We suppose it could be better if you embraced your cozy feeling by wearing this adorable Arctic weather ready sweater.When it comes to holidays and special events, our designers never take their ideas half way. These little Narwhals are celebrating the holidays in style, using what nature gave them to roast marshmallows over a sparkly fire (yes, this sweater has sparkly threads). The classic design that’s layered around the shoulders is paired with the exclusive narwhal illustration for a look that’ll make you look forward to those inevitable winter storms. A blizzard is going to blow in sooner or later, might as well have a sweater that’s cute enough to weather the weather with cheer!

See Details & Get More Deals at: Best Halloween Costumes 2019 :: Shop

#Array

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patricksilvrrozartistry · 8 years

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Current Music Obsessions: January 16 - 31, 2017

I got a pretty long list for these two weeks. I came across A LOT of songs and purged my watch later playlist sooooo yeah lol.

Here are the honorable mentions.

The Silent Wedding - A Dream of Choises feat. Tom Englund (Evergrey) Cinq Element - Destiny öOoOoOoOoOo - Bark City (A Glimpse Of Something) Shoot the Girl First - God's Gift (Your Violence) Vetrar Draugurinn - Bleak Earth (demo) Mechina - The Synesthesia Signal Melrose - Hurricane Marcela Bovio - Stars Dark Lunacy - Howl Crystal Gates - Wild Sons of the Earth Terra Tenebrosa - Where Shadows Have Teeth The CNK - Dinner is Ready Hollower - Awakened Seven Kingdoms - Stargazer Class Actress - Bienvenue Hark - Disintegrate Diabulus in Musica - River of Loss She Must Burn - Eclipse Solarus - Shattered Skies On Letting Go - Soul Searching Space Unicorn on Fire - Broken Lose End of Aeon - Endless Agony

So let’s get into the main list now, shall we?!

1) Narwhal Tusk - Making Monsters

I discovered this band a while back through Unknown Power Metal YT and have been quite interested in them since. They’re a female fronted symphonic metal band (so different for me, I know) and I really like their sound so far. This song has more of a power metal feel to it than the last song I heard of theirs (Holding You Deep Inside). Really looking forward to what else these guys bring.

2) The Rinn - I Will Wake

This is one of those songs you come across expecting one thing, but get something completely different. I originally thought I was going to be listening to some cinematic/emotive/theatrical orchestral stuff like Two Steps From Hell, Globus or Paulo J. Mendes, but no! This is a symphonic power metal band! The cover art threw me right the fuck off! It’s a really great track and I can’t wait to hear more from them, because so far, I’m loving what I’m hearing.

3) Stoneman - Mord ist Kunst

This song was a random discovery for me. I just saw it in the recommended videos and decided to give it a listen and I really enjoyed it. It’s really hard to find bands the fuse industrial metal and have a good symphonic element that actually sounds good, and this song is just that! It’s also hard (for me that is) to find industrial metal bands from Germany that don’t sound as if they’re trying to be/sound like Rammstein or Oomph!, so it’s a breath of fresh air finding rather different.

4) Lord of the Lost - Liberty in Death feat. Nina Jiers (Neopera)

I came across this song originally about a year ago, but thanks to my Facebook memories, I was able to rekindle my love for this song. I’m not that much of a fan of LotL, but this song is pretty epic. Once again, it’s an industrial metal band that has a really good symphonic element (or at least to this song) that is done right; and the fact that Nina has more than a line or a verse is really nice. Also, if you guys haven’t done so already, go listen to her band Neopera. Such an EPIC symphonic, gothic metal band that features a tenor on lead vocals! Think of them like a blend between Epica and Therion. HIGHLY recommend them!

5) Jetta - I’d Love to Change the World

I came across this song while watching the Sense8 Christmas special earlier in January. The version they had in the show was a remix, but I wound up not liking it too much. But this version, the original, is BEYOND amazing! So beautiful and slightly dramatic. Yes. So much yes.

6) Starkill - Piece of Paradise

Starkill is a symphonic, melodic death metal band with hints of power metal that have started creeping their way into my list of favorites. This song is definitely one of several standouts on the Shadow Sleep album, and it just might be my favorite off it. It’s so beautiful, lovely and slightly catchy. Parker and Sarah’s voices blend so beautifully together on this song. So good. So good.

7) Earthside - A Dream in Static feat. Daniel Topkins (Tesseract)

I came across this song through Facebook one day. I can’t remember if it was a sponsored ad that popped up because it saw that I liked Tesseract or if Tesseract shared it on their Facebook page. I can’t remember, but I decided to give it a listen and it’s a wonderful song. Beautiful melodies and instrumentals. Such a lovely song to chill out to.

8) Obscure Sphinx - Memories of Falling Down

This is one of the standout tracks for me on Epitaphs. It’s the true embodiment of post metal: ambient and aggressive/heavy. This song has creeped its way into one of my favorites by them (up in the ranks of Waiting on the Bodies Down the River Floating and Nastiez). It’s great to chill to and starts out very soft and ambient, but then explodes into an aggressive track halfway through and just when you get close to vegging out. If you haven’t done so, check out Epitaphs. It’s not as great as Void Mother in my opinion, but it’s still a great listen.

9) Shattered Skies - The End and the Rebirth

This is another song that I discovered a while back and rekindled my love for. I was browsing through the Prog playlist I put together for myself a while back and came across this song and fell back in love with it. It’s very proggy, almost dkenty even. It’s a great song to jam out and just really great. And if I’m not mistaken, they just dropped a new song with their new singer. I can’t remember how I felt about it, but just know that they got something new out lol.

10) Divitius - Serpent Skin

This band is quickly proving to be one of the best bands to come out in a long time. They’re a female fronted djent/progressive metal band from Portland and I am LOVING everything that they are releasing so far. Their music is just so epic, bombastic, but still can get really atmospheric (just listen to Lucid if you want something VERY atmospheric). This song is so epic and powerful and dramatic. I can’t wait to see what else these guys bring, because so far, they are making me lose my shit!

11) Transpherics - Tempus Edax Rerum

This was a song that I came across on Facebook randomly one day and decided to give it a listen and holy tits is this epic. It’s intense progressive metal, but it’s just cleans. I LOVE it when bands do songs like this. They get so very intense and dramatic without getting very intense and dramatic with vocals and/or instrumentals. Can’t wait to hear more from these guys.

12) Malacoda - The Wild Hunt

Ritualis Aeterna was an EPIC EP (it did make my top 10 favorite EP’s of 2016 after all), but this song definitely takes the cake for being my favorite off it. If you like dark symphonic, power metal bands like Kamelot, you will LOVE these guys. Like it has the perfect blend of darkness, aggression and symphonic, power metal and it’s wonderful. DEFINITELY give these guys a listen!

13) Rave the Reqviem - Azalea

I’ve been a fan of these guys for a few years now, but The Gospel of Nil was the first full length album of theirs I listened to all the way through. It’s really impressive album with intense riffs, a kinda strong symphonic element and all while still being an industrial metal band. From the other songs I’ve heard of theirs that they previously released, this album definitely turned up the metal, and this song is pure proof of that! It’s so epic and intense and not at all what I was expecting from them and I LOVE it! This song is definitely my favorite off the album.

14) Teodasia - Two Worlds Apart feat. Chiara Tricarico (Temperance) and Fabio Polo (on violin)

Metamorphosis is Teodasia’s first full length album featuring their new lead singer Giacomo (whom is also now Rhapsody of Fire’s new front man) and it’s a pretty solid album. But this song is definitely the stand out track on the album. It’s the ballad and is absolutely BEAUTIFUL. The chorus is everything. It’s so beautiful and elegant and I just can’t handle the beauty. Giacomo and Chiara’s voices blend so beautifully together. And the low notes Giacomo hits. Gurl. Yes. LISTEN TO THIS AND LOVE IT.

15) The Hardkiss - Closer

This song was just an honorable mention in last month’s video for CMO, but this time a round it’s a full blown obsession. About two weeks into January, this song got stuck in my head and wouldn’t leave for about a week. It’s so good. I mean, The Hardkiss are one of my favorites. I’m also am really liking the slightly more heavy direction these guys are going in. It is a bit odd, considering that they are progressive pop band, but it’s giving them so much more dimension and I am loving it.

16) Temperance - Fragments of Life

This song right here. Such a wonderful track off the new album. It’s so beautiful! They did really well with the new album, so many great tracks, but this one definitely stands out to me, and I’m not even sure why. It’s not the most eye catching song of theirs, but it’s the execution of it. Somehow they made a rather simple song into such a beautifully epic track.

17) Diabulus in Musica - Marble Embrace

I about died while listening to Dirge for the Archons. Such an epic album! They definitely outdid The Wanderer (my favorite album of theirs) and turned it the fuck out! So many epic tracks, but this one definitely got stuck in my head the most, which is what makes it an obsession. There’s something about this song that is just so addictive. Such a great song. It’s not my favorite off the album, but it’s definitely an epic one.

18) Diabulus in Musica - St. Michael’s Nightmare (live)

This version of St. Michael’s Nightmare is a bonus track on Dirge for the Archons and is beyond better than the original (which was already beyond epic). I’m not sure where this performance happened and if they had a live orchestra and choir, but those bits sound beyond spectacular. This version needs to be listened to on blast and with headphones in. Just let the choirs and orchestrations engulf your soul and send you into another dimension. So much yes. HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS!

19) Army of Lovers - Crucified

I originally discovered this song several years ago through Atargatis’ cover it. They did a REALLY great job with it and made it into this symphonic power metal masterpiece. But the day that I found out that the original was done by this group, I had to give it a listen and see where it all started. Gurl. This shit is EPIC! I LOVE the campiness of the music video and the lip syncing. It’s just, UGGGHHHHHH, so good! Definitely listen to this!

20) Visionatica - Imprinting Lies

I’ve known of this band for a little while now and found them back when She Wolf was just a simple single and didn’t have a music video. Then when they released Certainty of Benevolence, I knew I had to listen to their debut album Force of Luna. This song right here is probably my second favorite off the album (right behind Certainty of Benevolence). It’s so epic and beautiful and exactly what you want to hear from a symphonic, power metal band on their debut release to get you into them.

21) Omnimar - Out of My Life

I came across this song in the recommended videos one day and fell in love. I’m not entirely sure if I should label this as industrial or dark electronic music, but what I can say is that it is amazing. There’s something about this simple song that is just beyond beyond. The video for it is also really great. Just give this a listen and watch the video too, you’ll love it.

22) Noveria - Acceptance

Noveria is a progressive power metal band that I came across a few years ago, and when I saw they were releasing a new album in 2016, I needed to listen to it. This song is definitely one of my favorites off Forsaken. It’s so great and powerful.

23) Aphyxion - Nature of Mankind

Aphyxion are a melodic death metal band that I came across in the recommended videos one day. At first, I really wasn’t too interested in listening to their new album, Aftermath, but after hearing and seeing the music video for Same Kind of Different, I had to give it a listen! This song is one of my favorites off Aftermath and it’s all because of the bridge. The breakdown with those synths just SLAYS me! Such an epic song and band.

24) Psyborg Corp. - Synthesize

I’ve been a huge fan of these guys since they made their debut a few years ago (The Mechanical Renaissance is one of my favorite EBM albums), so you can understand my shock when I came to find out that they released a synthwave track. I’m not complaining at all, I LOVE synthwave and retrowave, it just threw me off is all since these guys have been releasing harsh EBM for six years and then out of nowhere they drop a synthwave track. It’s the same Psyborg Corp. vocals with some epic synthwave instrumentals happening and is a wonderful song to chill out to.

25) Pryapisme - A la Zheuleuleu

I have a feeling this band is going to become a new favorite of mine or that their new album is going to be a favorite of 2017. I came across these guys one day when their record label, Apathia Records, dropped some of their new tracks. This song is completely instrumental and is fantastic. It’s almost as if nintendocore (yes, it’s a real thing) and avant-garde metal came together and had this bizarre, seizure inducing arcade music baby and I love it!

26) The Autist - Age of Leviathan feat. Chiara Tricarico (Temperance)

This band has quickly become a new favorite of mine. With each single they’ve released for their upcoming album, The Coldest Sun, I become more and more hyped for it! This song is nothing simple, but a complete ball buster when it comes to progressive, symphonic metal. Like holy tits, this song is beyond epic. I’m beyond excited to hear this new album, because everything I’ve heard so far is so good. AND they’re going to be releasing a new music video soon featuring Polina Psycheya and Alina Lesnik and I can’t fucking wait!

That’s it for these past two weeks! I know that was A LOT, but like I said, I purged my watch later playlist and got through a lot of shit. Now I just need to purge my list again and also listen to the last albums on my list of 2016 releases. So be prepared for long lists in again in February. I hope you guys enjoy all these songs as much as I did!

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itsfinancethings · 5 years

Link

November 30, 2019 at 10:18AM

On Friday, two people were killed in a stabbing on London Bridge in Central London, which police have labeled a “terror incident.” Three others remain in the hospital. The alleged attacker was shot by the police and died.

But more lives might have been lost if not for bystanders who jumped in and subdued the attacker before the police arrived, tackling him to the ground. One of those men was reportedly armed with nothing by a narwhal tusk, and another with just a fire extinguisher.

According to media reports, one of the men who sprang into action to stop the attack was a Polish immigrant named Luckasz, who grabbed a Narwhal tusk off the wall of Fishmongers’ Hall and ran at the alleged terrorist. Luckasz reportedly works at Fishmongers’ Hall.

According to The Guardian, another member of the public who confronted the alleged attacker was armed with just a fire extinguisher.

Speechless. Members of the public with nothing but a narwhal tusk and a fire extinguisher tackle a murderous terrorist.

Heroism, pure and simple. pic.twitter.com/QAlVkFiexs

— Matthew Thompson (@mattuthompson) November 30, 2019

The Times has named the man who grabbed a narwhal tusk and ran at the terrorist as “Luckasz”, a chef from Poland who worked in the hall’s kitchen.https://t.co/qlJKZYfsoN https://t.co/YOsaVHcqpe

— Jim Waterson (@jimwaterson) November 30, 2019

Police confirmed on Saturday that the attacker was 28-year-old Usman Khan, who had been convicted in 2012 for terrorism offenses, and had been released from prison in 2018.

At a press conference Friday night, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick thanked the members of the public who helped stop the attacker, either by tackling him or by the following the police’s instructions.

“The empty ideology of terror offers nothing but hatred and today I urge everyone to reject that,” Dick said. “Ours is a great city because we embrace each other’s differences. We must emerge stronger still from this tragedy. In doing that we will ensure that the few who seek to divide us will never, ever succeed.”

Speaking to the BBC Saturday morning, Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, praised the bystanders who jumped into action. He pointed out that the attacker was wearing a dummy suicide vest — which the bystanders didn’t know was fake — and yet they still confronted him. “I’m so proud, and we should all be really proud,” Khan said.

I am in awe of the people who ran towards danger to keep us all safe. The bravery of the emergency services and ordinary Londoners is incredible. @bbcbreakfast: pic.twitter.com/gcyIkKNMkH

— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) November 30, 2019

In a statement Friday night, Khan said, “Heartbreaking confirmation from the Met Commissioner that two people who were attacked this afternoon have tragically died – victims of the appalling terrorist attack at London Bridge. My heart goes out to them, their loved ones and to everybody affected. London will never be cowed by terrorism. Terrorism will never win.”

Please read my updated statement on the terror attack at London Bridge.

I will be attending the government's emergency COBRA meeting tonight. pic.twitter.com/oItKLpTaP7

— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) November 29, 2019

#IFTTT #Blogger

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cutsliceddiced · 5 years

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New top story from Time: Bystanders Subdued the Alleged London Bridge Attacker. One of Them Was Reportedly a Polish Immigrant Armed Only With a Narwhal Tusk

According to The Guardian, another member of the public who confronted the alleged attacker was armed with just a fire extinguisher.

Speechless. Members of the public with nothing but a narwhal tusk and a fire extinguisher tackle a murderous terrorist.

Heroism, pure and simple. pic.twitter.com/QAlVkFiexs

— Matthew Thompson (@mattuthompson) November 30, 2019

The Times has named the man who grabbed a narwhal tusk and ran at the terrorist as “Luckasz”, a chef from Poland who worked in the hall’s kitchen.https://t.co/qlJKZYfsoN https://t.co/YOsaVHcqpe

— Jim Waterson (@jimwaterson) November 30, 2019

Police confirmed on Saturday that the attacker was 28-year-old Usman Khan, who had been convicted in 2012 for terrorism offenses, and had been released from prison in 2018.

I am in awe of the people who ran towards danger to keep us all safe. The bravery of the emergency services and ordinary Londoners is incredible. @bbcbreakfast: pic.twitter.com/gcyIkKNMkH

— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) November 30, 2019

Please read my updated statement on the terror attack at London Bridge.

I will be attending the government's emergency COBRA meeting tonight. pic.twitter.com/oItKLpTaP7

— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) November 29, 2019

via https://cutslicedanddiced.wordpress.com/2018/01/24/how-to-prevent-food-from-going-to-waste

#Time #top stories #IFTTT #news

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lauramalchowblog · 5 years

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Menopause: Beyond the Stereotypes

Disclaimer: I have not gone through menopause. I am, however, turning 40 this year. Statistically speaking, this is the decade in which I’m likely to enter perimenopause, so I have a vested interest in understanding what might be in store for me.

I’m all too familiar with the stereotype of the belligerent, out-of-control menopausal lady plagued by hot flashes and mood swings, bewildering her poor, beleaguered partner. [Note that for convenience I am going to use “menopause” to include the perimenopausal period as well.] Frankly, this narrative doesn’t suit me at all. I know very well that hot flashes and mood swings can be a part of menopause, but obviously there’s a lot more to it than that.

Of course, I want realistic view of what lies ahead so I might prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically. However, I also want the nuances. Plus, as an optimist I want to know the good, not just the bad and the ugly. To my mind, any major life transition is a chance at a reawakening of sorts, even if the road through it is rocky. My natural tendency is to find the silver lining and reframe situations as growth opportunities.

Menopause is much more than a collection of symptoms that need to be combatted. However, much of what’s written about menopause, from the scientific literature to the blogosphere, focuses on coping with and dealing with menopause. After a while, one wonders if the scientific and medical communities aren’t overeager to problematize and medicalize menopause by putting all the focus on the symptoms and, naturally, the treatments (they can make money off of). You have to dig deeper to find discussions about the meaning of menopause through the eyes of women who are living it.

Nevertheless, plenty of women and scientists (and women who are scientists!) are exploring how menopause fits into the flow of a woman’s life. I came away from my research seeing that menopause is, in fact, not terrible for many women. There’s tremendous variation in individual women’s experiences of menopause, not only in terms of the actual symptoms but also in the way she appraises them. Menopause is far more nuanced and idiosyncratic than sitcom stereotypes or medicalized portrayals would have us believe. It can be a time of tremendous growth and transformation, and a lot of women embrace that opportunity.

Moreover, although hormone therapy is by far the most loudly promoted remedy, it’s not the only game in town by far. There are actually a wide array of options that women might use to prepare for and alleviate the troublesome aspects of menopause. (Stay tuned for a future post on this topic.)

Why We Go through Menopause: The Value of Elder Women

One of the fun facts I came across in my deep dive into menopause is that scientists have so far identified four non-humans species whose females experience menopause: orcas, narwhals, belugas, and short-finned pilot whales. All toothed whales—fascinating! Other primates probably do not, although chimps and gorillas might (this is controversial, apparently). In other words, we’re pretty special!

While the biology of menopause—the when and what—are well understood, the why is still not totally clear. Human females might spend 40% or more of their lives in the post-menopausal phase. As the authors of this paper bluntly put it, “If the main purpose of women is to propagate the species (survival of the fittest), as postulated by Darwin for all species, then going through menopause many years before dying should be selected against unless there are distinct advantages to it.”

Ouch, but also fair. Scientists have come up with various theories about the nature of those advantages and how they came to evolve. The most compelling explanation is that our post-menopausal longevity directly contributes to the reproductive success of our offspring. Because humans mature slowly, not only do our children require a ton of resources and caretaking, but we also have additional children before our older children are anywhere near self-sufficient.

The Intergenerational Network of Caregiving

The “grandmother hypothesis” proposes that elder women enhance the survival of their lineage by caring for their biological grandchildren, but they also pass down their considerable knowledge and wisdom in and beyond the family itself. Post-menopausal female orcas assume leadership roles in their pods. They’re instrumental in helping other whales find food. Research has shown that their ability to lead others to fruitful fishing grounds is especially important in times of food shortage.

These older females possess skills and knowledge that enhance the survival of their offspring; and their offsprings’ mortality risk increases dramatically following their mothers’ death. The same is probably true for humans. Indeed, there is historical evidence from the 1700s and 1800s that women reproduced earlier and more often if their children’s grandmother was alive. The grandchildren’s odds of surviving to adulthood decreased if grandmothers were distant or deceased.

Competition versus Cooperation

A related theory to the grandmother hypothesis is that intergenerational conflict drove the evolution of menopause. In both human and cetaceans, daughters reach sexual maturity while the mothers are also still capable of reproducing. However, there are only so many resources (both material and energetic) to go around.

When female orcas continue to reproduce once their daughters have themselves started reproducing, the older females’ babies are less likely to survive than the younger females’ babies. The same might have been true for humans. According to this line of thinking, as we age, it’s better that we cease having children of our own and instead step into a supporting role for direct caretaking—and a more expansive role beyond caretaking itself.

Personally, I like the view of our roles changing through the lifespan, providing different types of value at different times. We have different gifts to offer in our post-reproductive years.

Different Women, Different Menopauses

In both the scientific literature and everyday conversation, people tend to talk about menopause as if it were one thing, a singular experience shared by all women. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Although some symptoms are common enough to be considered standard—hot flushes/flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood alterations being at the top of the list—the range of possible symptoms is considerably greater than that. Not all women will experience even the most common ones. Among women who do, the severity of those symptoms can vary tremendously. Depending on whom you ask, anywhere from 20-75% of women experience symptoms severe enough to significantly impact their quality of life.

A huge number of factors influences any individual woman’s experience. To start, the onset and severity of symptoms can differ depending on what type of menopause she experiences: if it is premature (younger than 40-years-old) or early (between 40 and 45 years), or if it’s induced by surgical removal of the ovaries versus natural changes in hormone levels. Other factors shown to affect a woman’s symptomatology include her physical and mental health before starting menopause, activity level, lifestyle factors such as smoking, socioeconomic status, and perhaps even geography.

Mindset Matters

It’s also clear that women’s expectations about and attitudes toward menopause shape her experience. Part of the stereotype is that menopausal women complain and kvetch their way through menopause, periodically pausing to stick their heads in the freezer. (I hear this does help.) However, surveys show time and again that most women actually have neutral to somewhat positive attitudes about menopause.

Many at least hold a mix of positive and negative beliefs and expectations. Understandably, women tend to hold negative attitudes towards hot flashes, night sweats, and other unpleasant physical symptoms. On the other hand, most women are only too happy to stop having monthly periods, and many of them are ready to move past the need for contraception. However, this can be an emotionally fraught time for women who are not ready for their reproductive years to end.

There’s a complex interplay between physical symptoms, attitudes and beliefs about menopause, and psychological well-being. Studies show a bidirectional link between a woman’s attitudes and her subjective experiences. Women who experience disruptive symptoms such as frequent and severe hot flushes understandably have more negative attitudes. The reverse is also true. One prospective study also showed that premenopausal women who had more negative attitudes about menopause later reported experiencing more frequent and more severe symptoms. Another study found that women are less likely to be bothered by menopause if they have other more pressing issues in their lives. (“Pssht, menopause? I can’t be bothered worrying about that, I’m too busy dealing with this crisis over here.”)

Cross-Cultural Differences

Women’s attitudes about menopause are also shaped by her cultural milieu. This could help explain why women around the world have quite disparate experiences in menopause. Not only do women in different cultures report being more or less bothered by menopause overall, the specific symptoms they describe differ as well. The reasons for this are not well understood. It’s not clear whether cross-cultural differences are due to factors like diet, climate, and number of children a woman typically bears, or whether they reflect the varied beliefs and meanings that cultures ascribe to menopause. It’s probably all of the above and more.

Finally, women’s subjective experiences of menopause do not perfectly map onto objective markers such as hormone levels. Two women reporting the same number of hot flashes and sleep disturbances might also report very different levels of distress about those symptoms, for example. This might be due to differences in psychological and emotional well-being, as I will discuss in the next post. Women who have better coping mechanisms, more social support, or higher emotional intelligence are likely more resilient to the physical symptoms.

This all goes to show there is so much more to the menopause story than we’re typically presented with. It’s important that healthcare providers understand this and take the time to understand their patients’ unique situations. Likewise, women should know that there’s no right or wrong way to experience menopause.

“Second Adulthood”—A Lot to Look Forward To

“Menopause starts out as a horror movie, but then transitions into a coming of age story. The time after menopause can truly become the best part of our lives as we create a vibrant second half of life. … Second adulthood is the best!” — Lynette Sheppard, RN

Now for the really good news. As I said above, many women have positive attitudes toward menopause, even when they are in the thick of it. Lotte Hvas is a Danish doctor and author of the book, Menopause—Better Than Its Reputation. Her research shines light on the positive aspects of menopause. In one study, Hvas asked women to reflect in an open-ended manner on how they experienced menopause and how it affected their lives. About half of the 393 women in the study spontaneously offered positive assessments.

Not surprisingly, many women were happy to be done with PMS and monthly periods. (This is something I saw often while reading menopause blogs—”No more cramps, and I can finally wear white pants again!” White pants are apparently a big deal for a lot of ladies.) Others described it as a “wonderful” and peaceful phase in their lives. Still others celebrated the fact that now that their children were grown, they had the time and freedom to explore new areas of interest. Nine of Hvas’ respondents reported that menopause improved their sex lives.

Plenty of women celebrate menopause as the beginning of a new phase of their lives. Menopause coincides with coming into their own in a new way. They talk about exploring new creative channels, experiencing greater patience, and being more selfish in a good way.

As Margaret Mead once said, “There is no greater power in the world than the zest of a post-menopausal woman.” Once women walk through menopause, whether it’s an easy stroll or a walk through fire, they emerge on the other side more confident, with a renewed vigor, and a take-no-baloney attitude. These sentiments were echoed by participants in a study in which Dr. Hvas conducted in-depth interviews with 52- and 53-year-old women. The women perceived themselves as more experienced and more competent than their younger selves, and more assertive about speaking their minds.

As my own mother told me, “Once you get older, you stop giving a $%&! about what other people think.” This theme is echoed time and again by post-menopausal women who say they feel less constrained and more self-confident. Some researchers believe this is actually due to the hormonal changes of menopause, but there are probably psychosocial influences as well. Whatever the cause, a lot of women affirm this, and frankly it sounds pretty great.

A Shift in Perspective

At some point in my reading I came across the term “menostart” as an alternative to “menopause.” This seems apt for the many women who experience menopause as a turning point after which their interests, priorities, and attitudes change.

The psychological principle of socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) offers a lens through which we might understand some of these shifts. The central tenet of SST is that as we age, our future time perception changes. Whereas once we were young and time felt expansive, with aging comes a growing recognition that time is limited. This changes how we approach the world. According to the theory, when time seems expansive in our youth, we focus on future-oriented goals, seek novelty and knowledge, and invest in individual achievement. In contrast, older adults prioritize relational goals and positive emotional experiences.

Three decades of research into SST bears this out. Although SST is not a theory of menopause per se, it does postulate that older individuals facing important life transitions that signal an “ending,” such as retirement, will effortfully focus on positive aspects and downplay negative aspects. Menopause surely falls into this category as well. Older individuals also tend to be better at emotion regulation in everyday life and enjoy more stable positive emotions.

Consistent with this, Hvas relates, “Some women describe that they have used the menopause as a trigger to changing their lifestyles. To others it has meant that they have realised that life is not eternal and that it is important to, ‘use life while you have it’. The statements indicate that the phase has resulted in personal development.” Some of the women in her other study described themselves as more tolerant. “The women also experienced that they had become better at prioritising and at ignoring trifles and instead focus on the important things in life, viz. things that were crucial to themselves.”

I’m Starting Now

No, this isn’t my public announcement that I’m starting “the change.” (Ugh to that term.) I’m laying the foundation upon which I hope a healthy, meaningful “upper middle age” will be built when my husband and I will become empty nesters, and when we fully intend to be healthy, vibrant, active, and on the move.

I’ll talk in my next post about psychological and emotional considerations as well as non-hormonal approaches to easing one’s way through menopause. Hint: I bet you’re already using a few of them to improve overall well-being. I am, and now I see them in a new light.

Because attitude is clearly important, I’m cultivating a positive mindset about menopause. It’s necessary to be intentional about this in a world that often treats menopause like it’s the worst thing ever. One strategy is to gather positive role models of women who are celebrating this period of life. I’m starting with Oprah, who says, “So many women I’ve talked to see menopause as an ending. But I’ve discovered this is your moment to reinvent yourself after years of focusing on the needs of everyone else. It’s your opportunity to get clear about what matters to you and then to pursue that with all of your energy, time and talent.” That sounds good to me.

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References:

Avis NE, Brockwell S, Colvin A. A universal menopausal syndrome? Am J Med. 2005 Dec 19;118 Suppl 12B:37-46.

Ayers, BN, Forshaw MJ, Hunter MS. The menopause. The Psychologist 2011;24:348-353.

Deeks AA. Psychological aspects of menopause management. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003;17(1):17-31.

Hawkes K, O’Connell JF, Jones NG, Alvarez H, Charnov EL. Grandmothering, menopause, and the evolution of human life histories. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA.1998;95(3):1336–1339.

Peccei JS. Menopause: Adaptation or Epiphenomenon? Evol Anthr 2001;10:43–57.

Sievert, LL. Anthropology and the study of menopause: evolutionary, developmental, and comparative perspectives. Menopause 2014;21(10):1151–1159.

Takahashi M, Singh RS, Stone J. A Theory for the Origin of Human Menopause. Front Genet. 2017;7:222.

Winterich JA, Umberson D. How women experience menopause: the importance of social context. J Women Aging. 1999;11(4):57-73.

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jesseneufeld · 5 years

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Menopause: Beyond the Stereotypes

Why We Go through Menopause: The Value of Elder Women

The Intergenerational Network of Caregiving

Competition versus Cooperation

Personally, I like the view of our roles changing through the lifespan, providing different types of value at different times. We have different gifts to offer in our post-reproductive years.

Different Women, Different Menopauses

Mindset Matters

Cross-Cultural Differences

“Second Adulthood”—A Lot to Look Forward To

A Shift in Perspective

I’m Starting Now

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window.onload=function(){ga('send', { hitType: 'event', eventCategory: 'Ad Impression', eventAction: '84166' });}